Master the Art of Quilt As You Go: A Step-by-Step Guide to Joining Blocks

Are you tired of spending countless hours trying to piece together a quilt, only to be left with a bulky and difficult-to-quilt final product? Well, have you ever heard of the quilting technique known as “quilt as you go”? This method not only saves time, but also produces a beautifully finished quilt. In this article, we will delve into the world of “quilt as you go” and specifically focus on how to join quilt as you go blocks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter looking for a new technique, this article is for you! So gather your fabrics, threads, and needles, and let’s get started on this exciting and game-changing journey into the world of “quilt as you go” quilting.

What is Quilt As You Go?

Quilt as you go (QAYG) is a quilting technique that allows you to create individual quilt blocks and then join them together to make a full-sized quilt. It is a popular method among quilters because it eliminates the need for basting, which can be a time-consuming and tedious process. In traditional quilting, all the sewing is done at the end when all the blocks are pieced together. However, with QAYG, you can piece and quilt your blocks simultaneously.

There are many different methods and techniques for QAYG, but they all follow the same basic principle of piecing smaller blocks and then assembling them into a larger quilt. This allows for more control over each individual block and makes it easier to manipulate the fabric while sewing.

The Benefits of Joining Quilt As You Go Blocks

Many quilters prefer QAYG because it offers several advantages compared to traditional quilting methods. One of the main benefits is that it allows you to see your completed design as you go along, which can be helpful in making decisions about color choices and fabric placement.

Another advantage of joining QAYG blocks is that there is no need for hand-basting or safety pins to secure your layers together. With QAYG, each block is individually quilted before being assembled into a larger quilt top. This results in less fabric shifting or puckering during quilting, producing a more even and professional look.

QAYG also provides more flexibility in terms of design options. You can use different techniques and patterns for each block without having to worry about aligning seams or matching points when assembling them together. This opens up endless possibilities for creating unique designs and combinations.

How To Join Quilt As You Go Blocks?

The process of joining QAYG blocks may vary slightly depending on the method you choose, but the general steps are as follows:

1. Piecing the Individual Blocks
First, you need to decide on a quilt block design and select your fabric. Cut the fabric into pieces according to your chosen pattern and sew them together to create each individual block. Then, quilt each block by stitching through all three layers (top, batting, and backing) to secure them together.

2. Creating a Quilt Sandwich
Once all your blocks are pieced and quilted, it’s time to assemble them into a larger quilt top. Take one block and lay it on top of the batting with right side facing up. Then, place another block on top of it with right side facing down.

3. Sewing the Blocks Together
With both blocks stacked together, pin them in place around the edges using quilters’ pins. Then, stitch along one edge of the two blocks using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Repeat this process for all remaining blocks until you have a full quilt top.

4. Finishing Touches
After joining all the blocks into a full quilt top, add any desired borders or sashing between the blocks. Then, layer your quilt top with batting and backing fabric and complete traditional quilting by stitching through all layers.

When done correctly, QAYG can produce stunning results that look no different than traditional quilting methods but with added convenience and flexibility.

Joining quilt as you go blocks is an excellent way to create stunning quilts without having to deal with basting or aligning seams while assembling a larger quilt top. While there may be some variations in specific techniques among quilters, the general process remains consistent: piece individual blocks, create a quilt sandwich, sew blocks together, add finishing touches.

QAYG offers many benefits over traditional quilting methods such as greater design flexibility, less shifting or puckering, and the ability to see your completed design as you go along. So if you’re looking to try something new or find a more efficient way to quilt, consider joining QAYG blocks for your next project. With practice and patience, you can achieve beautiful and professional-looking quilts using this technique.

The Basics of Joining Quilt As You Go Blocks

Quilt as you go is a popular quilting technique that involves stitching together quilt blocks as you are quilting, instead of sewing them together after all the blocks have been completed. This method offers convenience and allows for more creative flexibility in your quilt design. If you are new to quilt as you go or want to learn how to join quilt as you go blocks, this article is for you.

To begin, it is important to have an understanding of the basic principles of quilt as you go. This technique requires the use of pre-cut batting to match the size of your blocks, as well as backing fabric and top fabric for each block. The main goal is to stitch the blocks together while incorporating the batting and backing layers at the same time.

Step-by-Step Guide on Joining Quilt As You Go Blocks

Step 1: Square up your blocks
Before starting the joining process, make sure all your quilt blocks are square and evenly trimmed. This will make it easier to align the blocks later on.

Step 2: Prepare your batting
Cut out pieces of batting slightly larger than your block sizes. It is important that you use a high-quality batting that will not shrink when washed, otherwise your finished quilt may end up puckered or distorted.

Step 3: Layer your fabrics
Lay out your backing fabric with the right side facing down. Place a piece of batting on top, followed by your block with the right side facing up. Make sure all edges are aligned.

Step 4: Sew along one edge
Using a sewing machine or hand stitching, sew along one edge of your layers using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Use a walking foot if available to help prevent shifting and bunching.

Step 5: Trim excess batting
Trim off the excess batting along the seam line to reduce bulkiness in your quilt.

Step 6: Fold and press
Fold and press the backing fabric over the seam, covering the raw edges of the block and batting. This creates a clean finish on the back of your block.

Step 7: Stitch in the ditch or decorative stitch
Stitch in the ditch (along the seam) or use a decorative stitch to secure the folded backing fabric in place. This will also serve as your quilting for that particular block.

Step 8: Repeat
Repeat steps 3-7 for all remaining blocks until all are joined together.

Tips for Joining Quilt As You Go Blocks

– Use a walking foot when sewing to prevent shifting and puckering.
– Secure seams with backstitching or tying off threads to ensure durability.
– When joining individual rows of blocks, sew one row at a time and then join rows together.
– Experiment with different decorative stitches to add interest to your quilt.
– Use coordinating thread colors for a seamless look.
– Take your time and be patient. Quilt as you go can be a bit more time-consuming than traditional quilting methods, but it is well worth it in the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not squaring up blocks: Uneven or misaligned blocks can make joining quilt as you go blocks difficult. Take care in squaring up each block before starting.

Puckering: This can happen if your batting shrinks or if you are not using a walking foot. Make sure to use high-quality batting and take extra care when sewing along edges.

Mismatched seams: Be sure to match seams carefully when joining rows together. If they are not aligned, it can create unevenness in your quilt.

Benefits of Quilt As You Go

– Quicker completion: Since you are stitching the blocks together as you go, you eliminate the need for sewing all the blocks together at the end.
– Creative flexibility: With quilt as you go, you can easily change the layout or design of your quilt by simply rearranging your block order.
– Easy to handle: Smaller blocks are much easier to handle than an entire quilt when quilting on a standard sewing machine.
– Cost-effective: Quilting individual blocks instead of a full-sized quilt top allows you to use up scraps and leftover fabric.
– Variety: By joining different blocks together, you can create a visually interesting and unique quilt.

Quilt as you go offers many benefits and is a great option for anyone looking for convenience and creativity in their quilting. By following this step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you will be able to successfully join your quilt as you go blocks and create a beautiful finished product. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and have fun with it!

Q: What is Quilt As You Go (QAYG) technique?
A: QAYG is a quilting technique where quilt blocks are individually quilted and then joined together to create a finished quilt, eliminating the need for additional quilting steps.

Q: What are the benefits of using QAYG method?
A: One of the main benefits of using QAYG is that you can quilt and finish one block at a time, making it easier to manage larger quilting projects. It also allows for more creative freedom in combining different quilt block designs.

Q: What materials do I need to join Quilt As You Go blocks?
A: To join QAYG blocks, you will need fabric for the quilt top and backing, batting, sewing machine, basic sewing tools such as needles and thread, as well as some adhesive or basting spray.

Q: How do I prepare the blocks before joining them together?
A: Before joining the blocks, make sure that they are all trimmed to the same size and have been quilted. You can also join your blocks with sashing strips for added stability.

Q: What is the best way to join QAYG blocks together?
A: There are several methods for joining QAYG blocks such as using a straight stitch or a decorative stitch. You can also join them by hand using a whipstitch or ladder stitch for an invisible seam.

Q: How do I prevent puckering or distortion when joining my Quilt As You Go blocks together?
A: To prevent puckering or distortion while joining your blocks together, make sure that each block has been evenly basted to the batting. Also, use even tension while sewing and take your time to ensure accuracy in seam allowances.

In conclusion, joining Quilt As You Go blocks is a simple yet effective technique for creating beautiful and versatile quilts. By following the steps outlined in this guide, one can easily join QAYG blocks and achieve professional-looking results.

Firstly, it is important to accurately measure and cut the batting and backing fabric to ensure that the finished quilt is of the desired size. Next, stitching together individual blocks using a seam allowance of ¼ inch ensures a strong and durable bond between them.

The use of sashing strips not only adds visual interest to the quilt but also provides stability to the overall structure. Additionally, by varying the color or pattern of these strips, one can create unique and personalized designs.

Another crucial aspect to keep in mind while joining QAYG blocks is maintaining consistency in pressing. This ensures that the seams lie flat and helps prevent puckering or bulging in the finished quilt.

Furthermore, there are various methods one can use to join QAYG blocks such as strip-piecing, hand-sewing or using a sewing machine. Experimenting with different techniques can lead to discovering one’s preferred method for joining QAYG blocks.

Lastly, it is important to take care when handling and sewing together multiple layers of fabric. Proper pinning and basting

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.