i brought a 1/4 inch sewing foot and it immediately improved the accuracy of my block sizes soo much!. i would recommend one for anyone doing machine piecing.
Yes a 1/4 inch foot or some of the tape you can place on the area of your machine bed in front of the needle to align your fabric and more budget friendly as well
I agree with the others who have recommended the 1/4” foot. Make sure to get the type that has the guide piece attached to it. Then you just run your fabric along side the guide. Are you measuring your seams? You may want to try keeping the regular foot on, & then moving your needle over to get an accurate 1/4”. Also, go back to the instructions at the beginning. Did they mention to sew with a “scant” 1/4”? The 1/4” foot won’t help with that, but moving your needle position may! Good Luck, & don’t give up! Trouble shooting is part of the process!😉👍
Oh Rachel you always make me smile. I love the way you show your mistakes, because we all make them and it’s nice to know that even you don’t get it right first time, every time! x
Rather than checking the seam allowance on the ruler. it may be better to check after you have sewn and pressed the seam. Turning the fabric and the thread can take up some of the space. I think that is why some people talk about a scant 1/4 inch. Take three strip 21/2 inches seam them , press and then measure. If your fabric measures 61/2 inches then you have the correct seam allowance. I may sound as if I know what I am talking about but I still find it difficult to get an accurate 1/4 inch seam.Even if not 61/2 inch you appear to be having fun and it is lovely to watch. Thank you
Yes I agree with you regarding the scant quarter inch seam, its basically a needle width shy of a quarter inch which allows for the turn of the fabric. Also I have been a dressmaker for many years and have been taught that accurate pressing is key to getting exact measurements. You can easily lose a millimetre here or there if you aren’t careful. Doesn’t sound like a lot but it adds up. Am looking forward to seeing this quilt progress, the fabrics are gorgeous!
Yes! Ihave been quilting for many years ! I have agonized over this problem. One issue is fabric thickness. Another is stitch length and tension. If both are suitable then make sure that you use the same ruler for cutting AND measuring! Finally, PRESS not iron! Always to the darker fabric. Then, when sewing two seams together, carefully line them up and nest them. Pin and sew Even so, that doesn't always work. You cant use the foot as a guide. Some people place a line of tape next to the correct 1/4 inch marking and slowly guide the fabric through. Beyond that being consistent is more important imo If you've done everything by the book and still have issues, it may be necessary to make adjustments in the sashing to ensure a particular width etc At any rate , finished is good and there are no quilt police 😉 😂
All of those comments are wonderful. I have been a traditional machine quilter for many years now and I machine quilt all of my quilts myself. The first video I saw of you was making the hanging pin basket for the close line. I fell in love with your quiet candid manner and voice. I haven’t tried one of your “other” projects but I promise to do so when my broken arm heals and I get my strength back. In the meantime I will keep watching. ❤
You got this! Try cutting three 1.5 x 2 strips. Sew them together (1.5 side by side). Then measure your center strip … should equal 1”. If too small, make you quarter inch seam just a thread to the right. Try it again… you’ll find the right spot. They all look great. Or, just go with 6.25! 😅
I love to see what you are making! This will be such a beautiful quilt. I just finished my first quilt top. I am 59 years old. I wish I had been interested sooner in my life. I love that you leave your challenges in. It helps to see how other people resolve a problem or accept and adjust. One thing I try to remember is when I make mistakes is when I’m really learning and expanding my skills. 🌷
Hello Rachel, I think you are doing a great job! Being able to laugh at your mistakes is half the battle. Your fabrics are wonderful. I will need to purchase Alice Caroline's book. I've been wanting to try a sampler block quilt. Your blocks in the second days video are looking beautiful. You give us confidence by sharing that you are just like the rest of us beginner quilters. I hope your hands will feel better soon. ❤😊
Hi, I've seen a lot of people have offered helpful advice and I rarely comment on videos but wanted to say you are not the only one struggling with these blocks. I've been quilting for a number of years and this was my first quilt with Liberty fabrics and I have to say they are the most difficult fabrics I've worked with. There are a number of things you can do to check the accuracy of the seam allowance. You really want to have a scant 1/4" seam and if you are using a quarter inch foot on your machine then you can move the needle over to the right one or two clicks to get the scant 1/4". The other thing to check is that you are cutting the fabrics to the right size, if using a quilting ruler you want the line on the ruler at the left side of the fabric to be fully on the fabric and not off to the side. I started doing this BOM in 2022 and still working my way through the blocks, a lot of the block instructions tell you to iron the seams open, this will also make the block a bit bigger so might be worth trying that on a block or 2 that you have already made.
Oh Rachel, you are doing a smashing job of machine sewing your blocks. Like everything we do, the more we practice the better we get. Try not to fret over the finished sizes, it is okay to make them YOUR size. Keep up the good work
I just love listening you explain what you are doing. So calm and relaxing. Your blocks are lovely and look forward to seeing the rest of them and then the finished quilt.
Rachel, you may need to do a scant 1/4”, it’s approximately one thread less than the 1/4” and things will work out fine. There are a lot of pieces in those small blocks, easy to get thrown off. You are doing a great job. I dont usually worry about it if all my blocks come out the same size. Also i starch my fabric before i sew it, it gives you more accuracy. 💕
Your blocks are beautiful! Quilts give some flexibility when you are piecing them together. I’ve been quilting for over 50 years and still never get everything exact. When you’ve finished it, no one will be measuring each square. Enjoy making!
Oh thank you Rachel 🙏 as I thought it was just me. I’ve never done anything like this before & I am loving it. Having said that nearly every block I’ve done has had to be unpicked 😂😂. I am determined to do it correctly. Block 5 , six colours - my finished block was 8.5” 😂if I took one colour off 6.5” but no!!!! I’m now unpicking and taking extra time to read and sew & will use the six colours. 🤷♀️😅
Such a breath of fresh air you are! I really appreciate how you show the block measurements off a little bit… I often feel like giving up when that happens but not anymore! Thank you
Your Liberty print blocks are so beautiful! To flatten seams which makes the block a bit bigger, I use an acorn felt pen that has starch of some sort in it. I wet just the seam with it before ironing then with the seam flatter, the block is a bit bigger. Hope that helps.
I love cross stitch but want to start quilting too. I’ve followed Kate at the Last Homely House for a long time but never felt confident enough to start a quilt from scratch. Your channel along with this book has given me the push I need. I’ve bought the book and can also buy the fabric kit, so that makes it much easier. Plus I love Liberty fabric. I also bought three kits from LillyRose after watching another of your videos, 2 hedgehogs and a lamb, so I have the feeling your videos are enabling me to spend money 🤣🤣. Thanks for sharing.
Great start on your quilt! I discovered that the standard foot on my machine was not actually 1/4" as I had assumed. It was just a thread's width off, so if a block had 6 seams then I was already 1/4" off. Once I realised that was the source of my problem I purchased a dedicated 1/4" foot and also made sure that my needle position was exactly in the center and not a hair off. You're doing great - love your fabric choices and positive attitude.
You brought such a smaller to me today. I love your videos. But following along your adventure with the book and “new things” was wonderful. You are just like my old knitting friends group. ❤
What a lovely quilt. I always enjoy your videos! Be sure to press and not iron your seems. Ive found that ironing can stretch fabric, causing measuring to be off.
You have inspired me, I’m an absolute beginner and I love that you share your “mistakes” as it helps us learn, so thank you ❤ I must now buy the book, just what I need.
Oooooooh scrumptious video as always ❤ isn’t it a shame when we strain ourselves with our crafty addictions … I’ve developed severe neck pains by a solid week of crochet and knitting 😂😂😂 but I just can’t stop 😂 I love seeing your inspiring videos,the only thing to drag the needles out of my paws x
I love how you persevere through your troubles and wound up with your beautiful blocks. I have a hard time getting my blocks to measure correctly as well but I sew with an old Kenmore sewing machine. The littlest thing can affect your measurements, including if your machine sits level, the feed dogs and presser foot, etc. I hope you get it figured out. ❤️
Sweet Girl! My mantra is to do one scary thing a day! I am a quilter - I love hand applique, and only piece quilt blocks by machine if called for in my pattern. Although I assemble it all with my machine. I really love to hand embroider on my quilts. So just an observation, I often quilt at retreats with multi niche quilters. I also take classes & I have found that primarily machine piece and machine applique quilters have not heard of the quilters knot. So good on you to try machine quilting. It is good to try all the techniques and expand skills.
Hi Rachel, your quilt will be so beautiful. I have been sewing for several years and find getting that accurate 1/4 inch always tricky. I don’t get on with my 1/4 inch foot and prefer to move my needle, I also love Aurifil thread as it is finer thread and this makes a difference as pressing does too. I love watching The Fat Quarter Shop on YT they do some great tutorials and gives so many tips. The more machine piecing you do the better you will get. Keep going, oooo. Check the size of your needle too that makes a difference. Happy sewing! Best wishes Alison
I always do a scant 1/4 inch as I always have the same problem as you where the blocks come out smaller. Works for me. You have a lovely listening voice. Thankyou.
I have been quilting for more than 20 years, I’m not prolific, I still use a 1/4 inch foot with a guide. It really helps. This quilt will be lovely, I might see if I can get the book in Australia
Hi Rachel - Thank you for sharing your beautiful quilting with us. I was told that you should always include the stitching line in your measurement of the seam allowance
I typically use a scant 1/4” seam which allows for the material taken up when you are pressing your seams. Then I will square my block up to the required measurement. I find it easier to have a bit of room to play with so I end up with the right size block. Hang in there and good luck with your beautiful quilt.
I think you are doing terrific for the first time making the different blocks. For my quilt as you go brickwork project I decided to use Anne of Green Gabels fabric.
I find it easier to insert pins to get seams straight/square...pin when matching the two pieces at the centre. Really helps keep it even. The other thing is to precisely cut... just makes your life easier.. measure twice, cut once 😊
This book indeed looks fantastic to learn different blocks in one go & I'm glad you were able to finish on a positive note. Confidence is key ! It was a good idea to use grunge vanilla here as they give your blocks a vintage feel. Hugs xxxxxxxx
I had the summer moon book. On my channel you can see me throwing it on the floor and I made my own blocks....sewing should be a pleasure not a chore, good luck with yours. x
Another tip for your quarter inch is to get an acrylic guide that has holes in it for your needle to go into and ot measures it perfectly for you. Then get seam guides that stick to the base of your machine based on the place the ruler set. That and my pressure foot has helped me tremendously. Your fabrics are beautiful. This will be a lovely quilt.
Also, when you showed the back of that block, you can tell your seam is more than a quarter inch. Also, check you tube for ways you can find the quarter inch by sewing 3 pieces of fabric together. Once you do that, the blocks will be perfect 👌 ☺️
Sew a 1/4" seam on scrap fabric and measure to confirm your machine sews at a 1/4" -- not all machines sew at 1/4", not even with a 1/4" foot or guide on the plate! Measure your seam allowances on the back of the block to make sure each one is 1/4"; then measure the seam allowances that are next to each other to make sure it is 1/2". Also, sew 3 squares together and then measure the width to make sure it is 6.5" (or whatever size block it is supposed to be). Remember that thread will take up space in your seam allowance; some people piece with 50 or 60 wt thread -- realize that not all 50 or 60 wt thread is the same thickness (I know! As if they would do that to us!). You can also consider sewing with a scant 1/4" seam. Yes, you could just make all your blocks 6.25" -- but what if there's a block that has points on the outside edges ... will those points be cut off when you square the block to 6.25 instead of 6.5"; also the book's title includes the words: "to improve your quilting skills". 😊You got this, Rachel! 💜
I bought her book from Amazon. I got it in two days. I'm a scant 1/4 inch quilter because I like to finger press, rather than have the iron on... cost of fuel bills etc.
Good Afternoon Miss Rachel from Virginia Beach Virginia 🇺🇸. It so lovely to watch your tutorials. I just purchased this book from Amazon a d cannot wait to add to my collection of books. I absolutely love the idea of all the different blocks to make one quilt. Looking so forward to looking through it tomorrow. Happy if sewing/stitching 🪡🧵✂️. Tracy
I think they are really beautiful blocks. I have been sewing for a long time, and some of my quilts when I cut them and sew blocks, the same thing happens to me. And I do the same thing. I believe it is how my 1/4" on my machine is maked. But I wind up using the travel foot when I should be lined it up by the 1/4" marked on machine by the pressure foot.
Hi Rachel i only found you on UA-cam a few days ago and have been watching your videos i think they are great,you make me smile every time i watch you.I can’t use a sewing machine i have tried but very nervous when using one,so i am going to make a small quilt by hand once i have the Templates,i watched the video you did with the Daisy and Grace quilting templates so i think i will try those.I love all your pieces of work in the background of your videos ecspecially the lampshade did you make that it’s very pretty.Keep making the videos as they are so helpful.
Your blocks have turned out so beautifully. I enjoyed watching this today and after seeing this book, I’m very tempted to get it. I’ve just started a machine quilting project for my first time. I’m following Dizzy Quilts and Sews channel for her QAYG project. I’m enjoying it very much so far.
2:37 if that's a photo of the quilt that includes these blocks 2:47, you don't need to worry about the block sizes (especially if you are hand piecing). Just adjust the sashing so all the blocks with the sashings are all the same. In other words, block plus sashing equals the finished size. To do this, cut your sashing stips a bit wider to make up for the fabric missing in your blocks. If there's a huge difference (I added 10" blocks to 12" blocks), you can add an inner boarder to the smaller blocks. To celebrate the difference, the inner boarder to the block can be a contrasting fabric. ... But conversely, you can hide the fact that the blocks are smaller by adding a boarder to the block that matches the background of the blocks. (I did that on a star block. At first glance you can't see the added boarder to make the block bigger, just a nice "frame" around the star. It's nice to see the points set back from the edge of the block instead of the points always coming right to the edge of the sashing. 💖🌞🌵😷
Hi Rachel.....I have been sewing for so so many years .....believe me I definitely get days where things just don't go right......I always use when quilting....CutRite HandiGauge, from the Quilt shop....brilliant little tool definitely helps me...I always use this tool to keep an eye on my seems as i go ...it only Costs £4.75.... Your blocks are very beautiful, and you will get better and better .....ps....I don't work for this company. I just know it's a handy tool to have (through my experiences...) plus I always go a little smaller which in quilting is called ( A Scant 1/4 inch seam)...hope this helps a little....😊xx
I’m watching your video as I will begin my Alice in Wonderland sampler quilt. I’m a very nervous newbie. I am involved in a BOM, material for 10 blocks comes each month. Your blocks look beautiful!!!
Hi Rachel. As someone who has machine quilted, I too struggled with the 1/4 inch seam allowance until I used Aurifil thread for quilting. My seams stayed at 1/4 inch! Apparently using other threads can change the seam allowance. Sorry I’ve just found this video but very interested on how you get on, keeeep sewing. I’m also in uk.
I know this has been out a bit, but I wonder if anyone told you with sewing a quilt that you need a scant 1/4th inch seam. This is about a thread or two less so that when your seam is complete it becomes a true 1/4th inch. When you fold your seam to press you are actually losing a bit of fabric, especially with the multiple seamsyou are sewing. Fabulous job! I hope this makes sense. I wasn't goto buy te book but you have increased my interest. Cindy 😊
Thank you Cindy, that's totally what it was... I was adjusting my needle to exactly a quarter inch but now I have a little device to measure a scant quarter so I use that to find the setting on my machine 💕
Instead of measuring the seam allowance from the back, measure each sewn piece, seam to seam from the front. Due to the stitching thread and the pressing the 1/4 inch seam allowance gets a bit smaller.
I love the fabrics you are using and all the blocks you have made. As a want to be a quilter you are encouraging me to go for it. I need to purchase the book you are using.
Oh Rachel!!! I am so excited to have just ordered this book AND the fabric directly from Alice of Caroline’s!!! I am SO happy 😁. Happy birthday to me next month when it arrives!!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Rachel, I thought you actually were channelling Alice in Wonderland with your long hair caught back behind a hair band. ❤ The quilt is going to be beautiful and I loved watching you making the mistakes that I often seem to. Thank you so much for including them. I have found taking time with my cutting out really pays off. Check and recheck before you cut. Take care xx
I’ve only just found your videos and love them. I wonder if the problem with your sizing is that you should be using a scant quarter inch seam allowance, which is a couple of threads narrower that a quarter inch x
I ordered the book!!!! So excited to do it with you. I will be using my stash as well which sadly only contains about 3 Liberty scraps my lovely daughter in law brought me from London 20 years ago. I used them all in a grandmother’s flower garden quilt for my granddaughter and just have the tiny remains left !!! I won’t get a lot done this summer as we have a large market garden and a bakery that keeps us busy all summer but i am going to try to get one or two done each month . Then in September I am having a go at it full time ! Look forward to seeing your blocks all summer. Jean Colorado USA
If I can offer some advice….make a “scant” 1/4” seam rather than a 1/4”. After doing a similar quilt (“100days 100 blocks”) I had the same issue as you….under sized. After trialing a smaller seam, I became “spot on” with my measurements. It’s not your cutting. Don’t trim anything. The seam allowance is the BEAST….but you’ll perfect it, I’m sure!!! Some people build up a tape guide to the required seam allowance. That’s another tip. Look at “just get it done” quilts channel on UA-cam.Karen Brown has LOTS of inexpensive tips n tricks. Good luck!!!
Hi Rachel, I stumbled across your website last night and very much enjoyed your machine quilting from the quilting book. If you haven't yet seen Karen from "Just get it done quilts" - (youtube) I thoroughly recommend checking her tips and tricks, she has some great ideas for setting your machine up for an accurate 1/4 inch seam allowance, or a "scant" seam allowance. I have machine sewn for over 45 years, and have set my machine up with painter's tape and have successfully completed a number of "accurately sized" blocks and quilts. Happy sewing, I love your colour choices and liberty, very refreshing. Thanks for sharing and making videos. A new subscriber. :)
i brought a 1/4 inch sewing foot and it immediately improved the accuracy of my block sizes soo much!. i would recommend one for anyone doing machine piecing.
That's one of those things that's always on my list to buy but I never get around to it so I think I will now x
Yes a 1/4 inch foot or some of the tape you can place on the area of your machine bed in front of the needle to align your fabric and more budget friendly as well
I love mine! I had been trying all sorts of tips and tricks but once I got the 1/4” foot with the guided edge it was like magic.
Yes definitely a game changer.
I agree with the others who have recommended the 1/4” foot. Make sure to get the type that has the guide piece attached to it. Then you just run your fabric along side the guide. Are you measuring your seams? You may want to try keeping the regular foot on, & then moving your needle over to get an accurate 1/4”. Also, go back to the instructions at the beginning. Did they mention to sew with a “scant” 1/4”? The 1/4” foot won’t help with that, but moving your needle position may! Good Luck, & don’t give up! Trouble shooting is part of the process!😉👍
Oh Rachel you always make me smile. I love the way you show your mistakes, because we all make them and it’s nice to know that even you don’t get it right first time, every time! x
Rather than checking the seam allowance on the ruler. it may be better to check after you have sewn and pressed the seam. Turning the fabric and the thread can take up some of the space. I think that is why some people talk about a scant 1/4 inch. Take three strip 21/2 inches seam them , press and then measure. If your fabric measures 61/2 inches then you have the correct seam allowance. I may sound as if I know what I am talking about but I still find it difficult to get an accurate 1/4 inch seam.Even if not 61/2 inch you appear to be having fun and it is lovely to watch. Thank you
Yes I agree with you regarding the scant quarter inch seam, its basically a needle width shy of a quarter inch which allows for the turn of the fabric. Also I have been a dressmaker for many years and have been taught that accurate pressing is key to getting exact measurements. You can easily lose a millimetre here or there if you aren’t careful. Doesn’t sound like a lot but it adds up. Am looking forward to seeing this quilt progress, the fabrics are gorgeous!
Yes! Ihave been quilting for many years ! I have agonized over this problem. One issue is fabric thickness. Another is stitch length and tension. If both are suitable then make sure that you use the same ruler for cutting AND measuring! Finally, PRESS not iron! Always to the darker fabric. Then, when sewing two seams together, carefully line them up and nest them. Pin and sew Even so, that doesn't always work. You cant use the foot as a guide. Some people place a line of tape next to the correct 1/4 inch marking and slowly guide the fabric through. Beyond that being consistent is more important imo If you've done everything by the book and still have issues, it may be necessary to make adjustments in the sashing to ensure a particular width etc At any rate , finished is good and there are no quilt police 😉 😂
All of those comments are wonderful. I have been a traditional machine quilter for many years now and I machine quilt all of my quilts myself. The first video I saw of you was making the hanging pin basket for the close line. I fell in love with your quiet candid manner and voice. I haven’t tried one of your “other” projects but I promise to do so when my broken arm heals and I get my strength back. In the meantime I will keep watching. ❤
Watching you sew is like “sewing” with a friend! Greetings from Durham…NC…USA!
You are a breath of fresh air! Thank you for sharing your whole journey 😀
You are welcome, thank you for watching
You got this! Try cutting three 1.5 x 2 strips. Sew them together (1.5 side by side). Then measure your center strip … should equal 1”. If too small, make you quarter inch seam just a thread to the right. Try it again… you’ll find the right spot.
They all look great.
Or, just go with 6.25! 😅
Scant 1/4" is quite magical. Always gives you a wee bit more of a square. You are adorable and I love your Joy! ❤️
I love to see what you are making! This will be such a beautiful quilt. I just finished my first quilt top. I am 59 years old. I wish I had been interested sooner in my life. I love that you leave your challenges in. It helps to see how other people resolve a problem or accept and adjust. One thing I try to remember is when I make mistakes is when I’m really learning and expanding my skills. 🌷
Hello Rachel, I think you are doing a great job! Being able to laugh at your mistakes is half the battle. Your fabrics are wonderful. I will need to purchase Alice Caroline's book. I've been wanting to try a sampler block quilt. Your blocks in the second days video are looking beautiful. You give us confidence by sharing that you are just like the rest of us beginner quilters. I hope your hands will feel better soon. ❤😊
Hi, I've seen a lot of people have offered helpful advice and I rarely comment on videos but wanted to say you are not the only one struggling with these blocks. I've been quilting for a number of years and this was my first quilt with Liberty fabrics and I have to say they are the most difficult fabrics I've worked with. There are a number of things you can do to check the accuracy of the seam allowance. You really want to have a scant 1/4" seam and if you are using a quarter inch foot on your machine then you can move the needle over to the right one or two clicks to get the scant 1/4". The other thing to check is that you are cutting the fabrics to the right size, if using a quilting ruler you want the line on the ruler at the left side of the fabric to be fully on the fabric and not off to the side. I started doing this BOM in 2022 and still working my way through the blocks, a lot of the block instructions tell you to iron the seams open, this will also make the block a bit bigger so might be worth trying that on a block or 2 that you have already made.
Thanks for the video and including any difficulties- it is such a huge help. The blocks you did are beautiful, you sell yourself short! ❤❤❤
Oh Rachel, you are doing a smashing job of machine sewing your blocks. Like everything we do, the more we practice the better we get. Try not to fret over the finished sizes, it is okay to make them YOUR size. Keep up the good work
Really enjoy watching Rachel,
I am glad you show your mistakes 😂 it makes us all feel better
You get A+ for those blocks and AA++ for perseverance! Such a pleasure you are! Keep up the good work and happy quilting!
I just love listening you explain what you are doing. So calm and relaxing. Your blocks are lovely and look forward to seeing the rest of them and then the finished quilt.
I also find I am a bit out and I follow to the letter. Anyway thats how it goes. Loving your project and channel Rachel.
Rachel, you may need to do a scant 1/4”, it’s approximately one thread less than the 1/4” and things will work out fine. There are a lot of pieces in those small blocks, easy to get thrown off. You are doing a great job. I dont usually worry about it if all my blocks come out the same size. Also i starch my fabric before i sew it, it gives you more accuracy. 💕
You did a great job with making the new blocks!!! So pretty!
I so appreciate you . Thank you for sharing your passion .. you are helping more people than you know !!
I kept thinking scant 1/4” seam as well. Love your progress. You are doing great!
Your blocks are beautiful! Quilts give some flexibility when you are piecing them together. I’ve been quilting for over 50 years and still never get everything exact. When you’ve finished it, no one will be measuring each square. Enjoy making!
Love your attitude to quilting, where you for controlling your hobby not the hobby controlling you. Thanks for sharing your quilting journey. 👍❤️🙂
Oh thank you Rachel 🙏 as I thought it was just me. I’ve never done anything like this before & I am loving it. Having said that nearly every block I’ve done has had to be unpicked 😂😂. I am determined to do it correctly.
Block 5 , six colours - my finished block was 8.5” 😂if I took one colour off 6.5” but no!!!! I’m now unpicking and taking extra time to read and sew & will use the six colours. 🤷♀️😅
Such a breath of fresh air you are! I really appreciate how you show the block measurements off a little bit… I often feel like giving up when that happens but not anymore! Thank you
Thank you and you are welcome ❤️
Your Liberty print blocks are so beautiful! To flatten seams which makes the block a bit bigger, I use an acorn felt pen that has starch of some sort in it. I wet just the seam with it before ironing then with the seam flatter, the block is a bit bigger. Hope that helps.
I love cross stitch but want to start quilting too. I’ve followed Kate at the Last Homely House for a long time but never felt confident enough to start a quilt from scratch. Your channel along with this book has given me the push I need. I’ve bought the book and can also buy the fabric kit, so that makes it much easier. Plus I love Liberty fabric. I also bought three kits from LillyRose after watching another of your videos, 2 hedgehogs and a lamb, so I have the feeling your videos are enabling me to spend money 🤣🤣. Thanks for sharing.
That looks like a lot of fun.
I have always been told, as long as they are all the same, it doesn't matter if it is exactly what the instructions say it should be. Great job!!
You are doing great. The fabrics are beautiful 👍
Great start on your quilt!
I discovered that the standard foot on my machine was not actually 1/4" as I had assumed. It was just a thread's width off, so if a block had 6 seams then I was already 1/4" off. Once I realised that was the source of my problem I purchased a dedicated 1/4" foot and also made sure that my needle position was exactly in the center and not a hair off.
You're doing great - love your fabric choices and positive attitude.
Beautiful blocks! Excellent job.
You brought such a smaller to me today. I love your videos. But following along your adventure with the book and “new things” was wonderful. You are just like my old knitting friends group. ❤
Enjoyed this video very much! I appreciate you leaving the problems in too! I hope we get to watch you as you complete this project. Have a good day 😊
What a lovely quilt. I always enjoy your videos! Be sure to press and not iron your seems. Ive found that ironing can stretch fabric, causing measuring to be off.
You have inspired me, I’m an absolute beginner and I love that you share your “mistakes” as it helps us learn, so thank you ❤ I must now buy the book, just what I need.
Hi sharon🌹🌹
How are you doing?
So beautiful, Rachel! My favorite blocks are the log cabin and the checkerboard...love them!
Oooooooh scrumptious video as always ❤ isn’t it a shame when we strain ourselves with our crafty addictions … I’ve developed severe neck pains by a solid week of crochet and knitting 😂😂😂 but I just can’t stop 😂 I love seeing your inspiring videos,the only thing to drag the needles out of my paws x
Why do we do it to ourselves 🤣 truly addicted. I hope you're neck gets better soon 💓
Fab video. With regards to yr finished block size, check and check again for you cutting is accurate? Nothing wrong trimming atcthe end tho? Xx
Absolutely love this block Rachel, great colour choices. 👏
Beautiful fabrics! I love your ability to laugh when things don’t turn out quite like you’d planned. 😊
You've got to laugh otherwise you'd throw the machine out the window 🤣
bought the book looking forward to starting 🙂
❤ you’re building brain cells. ☺️ Good for you. 🥰 Keep on going and eventually you’ll be done. Yay. The blocks look great. ❤
I love how you persevere through your troubles and wound up with your beautiful blocks. I have a hard time getting my blocks to measure correctly as well but I sew with an old Kenmore sewing machine. The littlest thing can affect your measurements, including if your machine sits level, the feed dogs and presser foot, etc. I hope you get it figured out. ❤️
What a fun book. 📖 I just love your fabrics.❤
So Beautiful… I have the same issues with blocks…. I haven’t quite figured it out yet. But I’m really taking my time with cutting sewing and pressing
Beautiful blocks! Thank you for a calm and relaxing video.
Glad you enjoyed!
man I love watching your videos. you make me feel calm and I feel like I have a friend as I begin my quilting journey
Sweet Girl! My mantra is to do one scary thing a day!
I am a quilter - I love hand applique, and only piece quilt blocks by machine if called for in my pattern. Although I assemble it all with my machine.
I really love to hand embroider on my quilts. So just an observation, I often quilt at retreats with multi niche quilters. I also take classes & I have found that primarily machine piece and machine applique quilters have not heard of the quilters knot. So good on you to try machine quilting. It is good to try all the techniques and expand skills.
Hi Rachel, your quilt will be so beautiful. I have been sewing for several years and find getting that accurate 1/4 inch always tricky. I don’t get on with my 1/4 inch foot and prefer to move my needle, I also love Aurifil thread as it is finer thread and this makes a difference as pressing does too. I love watching The Fat Quarter Shop on YT they do some great tutorials and gives so many tips. The more machine piecing you do the better you will get. Keep going, oooo. Check the size of your needle too that makes a difference. Happy sewing! Best wishes Alison
Wow your work is beautiful. I don't know the first thing about quilting but I love to watch it.
❤️ all the various florals!
Great job!!!!! I taught myself to quilt and I am getting better. Just keep sewing ❤
What a joy you are .. inspirational.. I’m going to have a day in my sewing room ❤
I hope you had fun!
I ordered this book. I can’t wait!
Happy stitching 💖 🧵
I always do a scant 1/4 inch as I always have the same problem as you where the blocks come out smaller. Works for me. You have a lovely listening voice. Thankyou.
Thank you! Definitely going to make my next batch with a scant allowance ❤️
I have been quilting for more than 20 years, I’m not prolific, I still use a 1/4 inch foot with a guide. It really helps. This quilt will be lovely, I might see if I can get the book in Australia
You could add a boarder to the small blocks to make them the correct size. Don’t fret , you’re doing very well!
I love your help for us newbies 🎉❤️
You are so welcome!
Hi Rachel - Thank you for sharing your beautiful quilting with us. I was told that you should always include the stitching line in your measurement of the seam allowance
I typically use a scant 1/4” seam which allows for the material taken up when you are pressing your seams. Then I will square my block up to the required measurement. I find it easier to have a bit of room to play with so I end up with the right size block. Hang in there and good luck with your beautiful quilt.
I think you are doing terrific for the first time making the different blocks. For my quilt as you go brickwork project I decided to use Anne of Green Gabels fabric.
Hi Rachel, once you have sewn two fabrics together, check that the quarter inch seam is correct, machine's differ.
I find it easier to insert pins to get seams straight/square...pin when matching the two pieces at the centre. Really helps keep it even. The other thing is to precisely cut... just makes your life easier.. measure twice, cut once 😊
This book indeed looks fantastic to learn different blocks in one go & I'm glad you were able to finish on a positive note. Confidence is key ! It was a good idea to use grunge vanilla here as they give your blocks a vintage feel. Hugs xxxxxxxx
I had the summer moon book. On my channel you can see me throwing it on the floor and I made my own blocks....sewing should be a pleasure not a chore, good luck with yours. x
Another tip for your quarter inch is to get an acrylic guide that has holes in it for your needle to go into and ot measures it perfectly for you. Then get seam guides that stick to the base of your machine based on the place the ruler set. That and my pressure foot has helped me tremendously. Your fabrics are beautiful. This will be a lovely quilt.
Also, when you showed the back of that block, you can tell your seam is more than a quarter inch. Also, check you tube for ways you can find the quarter inch by sewing 3 pieces of fabric together. Once you do that, the blocks will be perfect 👌 ☺️
I need that book, and I know who to suggest it when they ask what I'd like for Christmas 😊
Sew a 1/4" seam on scrap fabric and measure to confirm your machine sews at a 1/4" -- not all machines sew at 1/4", not even with a 1/4" foot or guide on the plate! Measure your seam allowances on the back of the block to make sure each one is 1/4"; then measure the seam allowances that are next to each other to make sure it is 1/2". Also, sew 3 squares together and then measure the width to make sure it is 6.5" (or whatever size block it is supposed to be). Remember that thread will take up space in your seam allowance; some people piece with 50 or 60 wt thread -- realize that not all 50 or 60 wt thread is the same thickness (I know! As if they would do that to us!). You can also consider sewing with a scant 1/4" seam. Yes, you could just make all your blocks 6.25" -- but what if there's a block that has points on the outside edges ... will those points be cut off when you square the block to 6.25 instead of 6.5"; also the book's title includes the words: "to improve your quilting skills". 😊You got this, Rachel! 💜
I love the shape and design of your glasses! They look lovely on your face.
I bought her book from Amazon. I got it in two days. I'm a scant 1/4 inch quilter because I like to finger press, rather than have the iron on... cost of fuel bills etc.
Good Afternoon Miss Rachel from Virginia Beach Virginia 🇺🇸. It so lovely to watch your tutorials. I just purchased this book from Amazon a d cannot wait to add to my collection of books. I absolutely love the idea of all the different blocks to make one quilt. Looking so forward to looking through it tomorrow. Happy if sewing/stitching 🪡🧵✂️. Tracy
Hi Tracy, that is wonderful, I hope you enjoy it. You'll have to tag me in some photos on IG if you use it ❤️
Such a joy watching you sew. I had to take a rest my arm was hurting because of too much hand sewing.
Hope your arm feels better soon ❤️
I think they are really beautiful blocks. I have been sewing for a long time, and some of my quilts when I cut them and sew blocks, the same thing happens to me. And I do the same thing. I believe it is how my 1/4" on my machine is maked. But I wind up using the travel foot when I should be lined it up by the 1/4" marked on machine by the pressure foot.
They all look great. Definitely get you a quarter inch foot. Also sometimes if you dot press just right it can affect your block size ❤
Awwww love your vlogs you really inspire me to have a go......love your honesty....we deffo learn by our slight mishaps ❤❤❤❤❤
Hi Rachel i only found you on UA-cam a few days ago and have been watching your videos i think they are great,you make me smile every time i watch you.I can’t use a sewing machine i have tried but very nervous when using one,so i am going to make a small quilt by hand once i have the Templates,i watched the video you did with the Daisy and Grace quilting templates so i think i will try those.I love all your pieces of work in the background of your videos ecspecially the lampshade did you make that it’s very pretty.Keep making the videos as they are so helpful.
Hi Carole🌹🌹
How are you doing?
I love the colors. ❤
Your blocks have turned out so beautifully. I enjoyed watching this today and after seeing this book, I’m very tempted to get it. I’ve just started a machine quilting project for my first time. I’m following Dizzy Quilts and Sews channel for her QAYG project. I’m enjoying it very much so far.
2:37 if that's a photo of the quilt that includes these blocks 2:47, you don't need to worry about the block sizes (especially if you are hand piecing). Just adjust the sashing so all the blocks with the sashings are all the same. In other words, block plus sashing equals the finished size. To do this, cut your sashing stips a bit wider to make up for the fabric missing in your blocks.
If there's a huge difference (I added 10" blocks to 12" blocks), you can add an inner boarder to the smaller blocks. To celebrate the difference, the inner boarder to the block can be a contrasting fabric. ... But conversely, you can hide the fact that the blocks are smaller by adding a boarder to the block that matches the background of the blocks. (I did that on a star block. At first glance you can't see the added boarder to make the block bigger, just a nice "frame" around the star. It's nice to see the points set back from the edge of the block instead of the points always coming right to the edge of the sashing. 💖🌞🌵😷
I am so enjoying your videos…so happy I found you
i have the same issue with sizes at the end. The seam ripper is my best friend.LOL. I just ordered this book.
Love it. The Alice in wonderland was the first play I saw as a little girl.. My first rework block was Alice.
Hi Rachel.....I have been sewing for so so many years .....believe me I definitely get days where things just don't go right......I always use when quilting....CutRite HandiGauge, from the Quilt shop....brilliant little tool definitely helps me...I always use this tool to keep an eye on my seems as i go ...it only Costs £4.75....
Your blocks are very beautiful, and you will get better and better .....ps....I don't work for this company. I just know it's a handy tool to have (through my experiences...) plus I always go a little smaller which in quilting is called ( A Scant 1/4 inch seam)...hope this helps a little....😊xx
Only just started following you. You make me feel so much better as the same thing always happens to me regarding accuracy and measurement.
welcome to the channel!
Love Moda Fabrics! 😃
Ohhh get well soon! Take it easy, and Rest What you have to rest! ❤
Your blocks are beautiful! I wonder if you try to use a scant 1/4” seam allowance? That should correct your sizes hopefully. TFS!
I’m watching your video as I will begin my Alice in Wonderland sampler quilt. I’m a very nervous newbie. I am involved in a BOM, material for 10 blocks comes each month. Your blocks look beautiful!!!
can i ask who you are doing the BOM with please/
@@Downatthebeach Sue Spargo I Ohio. My friend just got on a waiting list. Not sure when that will start.
Hi Rachel. As someone who has machine quilted, I too struggled with the 1/4 inch seam allowance until I used Aurifil thread for quilting. My seams stayed at 1/4 inch! Apparently using other threads can change the seam allowance. Sorry I’ve just found this video but very interested on how you get on, keeeep sewing. I’m also in uk.
I know this has been out a bit, but I wonder if anyone told you with sewing a quilt that you need a scant 1/4th inch seam. This is about a thread or two less so that when your seam is complete it becomes a true 1/4th inch. When you fold your seam to press you are actually losing a bit of fabric, especially with the multiple seamsyou are sewing. Fabulous job! I hope this makes sense. I wasn't goto buy te book but you have increased my interest. Cindy 😊
Thank you Cindy, that's totally what it was... I was adjusting my needle to exactly a quarter inch but now I have a little device to measure a scant quarter so I use that to find the setting on my machine 💕
@@stitchwithrachel sweet! I love watching your videos 😉
Instead of measuring the seam allowance from the back, measure each sewn piece, seam to seam from the front. Due to the stitching thread and the pressing the 1/4 inch seam allowance gets a bit smaller.
I love the fabrics you are using and all the blocks you have made. As a want to be a quilter you are encouraging me to go for it. I need to purchase the book you are using.
You can do it! and its a wonderful book.
Oh Rachel!!! I am so excited to have just ordered this book AND the fabric directly from Alice of Caroline’s!!! I am SO happy 😁. Happy birthday to me next month when it arrives!!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Happy birthday to you indeed! What a lovely birthday present for you! 💓
Rachel, I thought you actually were channelling Alice in Wonderland with your long hair caught back behind a hair band. ❤ The quilt is going to be beautiful and I loved watching you making the mistakes that I often seem to. Thank you so much for including them. I have found taking time with my cutting out really pays off. Check and recheck before you cut. Take care xx
I’ve only just found your videos and love them. I wonder if the problem with your sizing is that you should be using a scant quarter inch seam allowance, which is a couple of threads narrower that a quarter inch x
Purchased the book!
Such pretty fabrics😊
I ordered the book!!!! So excited to do it with you. I will be using my stash as well which sadly only contains about 3 Liberty scraps my lovely daughter in law brought me from London 20 years ago. I used them all in a grandmother’s flower garden quilt for my granddaughter and just have the tiny remains left !!! I won’t get a lot done this summer as we have a large market garden and a bakery that keeps us busy all summer but i am going to try to get one or two done each month . Then in September I am having a go at it full time ! Look forward to seeing your blocks all summer. Jean Colorado USA
That sounds like a great plan Jean x
If I can offer some advice….make a “scant” 1/4” seam rather than a 1/4”. After doing a similar quilt (“100days 100 blocks”) I had the same issue as you….under sized. After trialing a smaller seam, I became “spot on” with my measurements. It’s not your cutting. Don’t trim anything. The seam allowance is the BEAST….but you’ll perfect it, I’m sure!!! Some people build up a tape guide to the required seam allowance. That’s another tip. Look at “just get it done” quilts channel on UA-cam.Karen Brown has LOTS of inexpensive tips n tricks. Good luck!!!
Hi Rachel, I stumbled across your website last night and very much enjoyed your machine quilting from the quilting book. If you haven't yet seen Karen from "Just get it done quilts" - (youtube) I thoroughly recommend checking her tips and tricks, she has some great ideas for setting your machine up for an accurate 1/4 inch seam allowance, or a "scant" seam allowance. I have machine sewn for over 45 years, and have set my machine up with painter's tape and have successfully completed a number of "accurately sized" blocks and quilts. Happy sewing, I love your colour choices and liberty, very refreshing. Thanks for sharing and making videos. A new subscriber. :)
We all have those kind of days