Master the Art of Quilting: How to Seamlessly Connect Quilt Blocks with Sashing

Sewing is a timeless craft that has been passed down from generation to generation, with each new era incorporating their own unique styles and techniques. And for those who enjoy quilting, the process of sewing quilt blocks together can seem like an overwhelming task. But fear not, fellow quilters! With the help of sashing, you can easily bring your quilt blocks together to create a beautiful and cohesive masterpiece. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of how to sew quilt blocks together with sashing, making your quilting journey a little smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, these tips and tricks will surely elevate your sewing skills. So let’s get ready to create some stunning quilt blocks with sashing!

Sewing quilt blocks together with sashing is a popular technique that can add a beautiful and unique touch to your quilt. By adding sashing, you are able to create defined spaces for individual blocks while also creating a cohesive look for the entire quilt. However, for novice quilters, the idea of sewing sashing between quilt blocks can seem daunting and may even be perceived as too challenging. But fear not, as with any new skill, practice makes perfect.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of sewing quilt blocks together with sashing. We will cover everything from selecting the right materials and tools to proper cutting techniques and tips for achieving clean and professional-looking seams. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter looking to try out this technique, read on to learn how to sew quilt blocks together with sashing like a pro.

Materials:

Before starting any sewing project, it is important to have all the necessary materials on hand. For sewing quilt blocks with sashing, you will need:

1. Quilt Blocks: These are the individual pattern pieces that will make up your quilt top. You can either purchase pre-cut fabric squares or create your own using fabric scraps.
2. Sashing Fabric: This is the fabric that will be used in between each block to create defined spaces. Make sure to choose a fabric that complements your quilt blocks.
3. Ruler: A clear quilting ruler is essential for accurate measurements and cutting.
4. Rotary Cutter: A rotary cutter makes cutting precise and easier compared to using scissors.
5. Cutting Mat: This provides a protective surface for cutting and also helps in keeping your measurements accurate.
6. Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine is necessary for sewing together your blocks with sashing.
7. Thread: Choose high-quality thread in a color that matches or complements your fabrics.
8. Bobbins: Make sure to have extra bobbins loaded with thread to avoid running out of thread in the middle of sewing.
9. Pins: These will help keep your fabrics in place while sewing.
10. Iron and Ironing Board: These are crucial for pressing seams and achieving a polished look for your quilt.

Cutting Techniques

Before sewing your quilt blocks together with sashing, it is essential to have precise cuts for both the blocks and the sashing fabric. Here are some tips to ensure accurate cutting:

1. Use a Rotary Cutter: Using a rotary cutter instead of scissors makes cutting more precise and faster.
2. Press Your Fabric Before Cutting: Make sure to press your fabric with an iron before cutting to remove any wrinkles or creases that may affect your measurements.
3. Cut on a Cutting Mat: Always cut on a self-healing cutting mat to protect your surface and ensure accurate measurements.
4. Measure Twice, Cut Once: Double-checking your measurements before cutting will help avoid any mistakes that are hard to undo.

For the sashing fabric, you will need strips that are equal in width and length to the height and width of your quilt blocks. For example, if your quilt blocks are 6 inches wide by 6 inches tall, then you will need sashing strips that are 6 inches wide by 12 inches long.

Sewing Technique

Now that you have all your materials and have cut them accurately, it’s time to start sewing your quilt blocks together with sashing. Here is what you need to do:

1. Layout Your Quilt Blocks: Arrange your quilt blocks in the desired pattern on a flat surface before beginning sewing.
2. Start Sewing Sashing Strips Between Each Block: Begin by attaching a sashing strip between two adjacent blocks using a quarter-inch seam allowance. Make sure to pin the sashing strip in place before sewing to avoid any shifting.
3. Press Open Seams: After sewing each sashing strip, press open the seams using an iron. This will help create a flat and polished look for your quilt.
4. Repeat Until All Blocks Are Sewn Together: Continue sewing sashing strips between each block until all blocks are connected in rows. Then sew the rows together, making sure that the sashing lines up accurately.
5. Add Sashing Borders: If desired, you can also add sashing strips as borders on the outer edges of your quilt top to frame it.

Tips for Achieving Professional Looking Seams

1. Pinning: Pinning is crucial for ensuring that your blocks are aligned and your seams are accurate. Take the time to properly pin each seam before sewing.
2. Pressing: As mentioned earlier, pressing open seams is important for achieving a polished look. Make sure to press after every seam is sewn.
3. Seam Allowance: Use a consistent quarter-inch seam allowance throughout the entire project.
4. Accuracy: Double-checking your measurements and being precise with your cutting and sewing will result in a more professional-looking end product.

Sewing quilt blocks

Understanding Quilt Blocks and Sashing

Quilting has been a beloved craft for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt and China. Today, quilters all over the world continue to create beautiful and intricate works of art using various techniques and styles. One popular method in quilting is sewing quilt blocks together with sashing. This technique involves using strips of fabric to connect individual quilt blocks, resulting in a stunning finished product. In this article, we will delve into the process of how to sew quilt blocks together with sashing.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand what quilt blocks and sashing are. Quilt blocks are the individual fabric pieces that are pieced together to create a larger design. They can come in various shapes, sizes, and patterns, depending on the quilter’s preference. On the other hand, sashing is the vertical and horizontal strips of fabric that border each quilt block. Not only does it add an elegant touch to the quilt’s overall appearance, but it also helps create a cohesive look by neatly joining each block.

Gathering Your Materials

Before you start sewing your quilt blocks together with sashing, you’ll need a few essential materials. These include:

-Quilt Blocks: As mentioned earlier, these are the individual fabric pieces that will make up your quilt top.
-Sashing Fabric: Choose a high-quality fabric for your sashing as it will not only add visual interest but also provide structural support.
-Rotary Cutter: A rotary cutter makes cutting precise lines and shapes much easier than traditional scissors.
-Cutting Mat: This protects your work surface from scratches and cuts made by the rotary cutter.
-Ruler: A clear ruler is essential for measuring and cutting your fabric accurately.

Optional materials that may come in handy include pins and a sewing machine with coordinating thread.

Preparing Your Quilt Blocks

Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to prepare your quilt blocks for sewing. If your blocks have been recently created, ensure that they are all the same size by trimming any excess fabric. Use a ruler and rotary cutter to make straight cuts along the edges of each block.

Next, lay out your quilt blocks in the desired pattern on a flat surface. This step is crucial in creating a cohesive design for your quilt. Play around with different layouts until you find one that you’re happy with.

Measuring and Cutting Your Sashing

To create the sashing strips, measure the length of each side of your quilt block and add an extra inch to accommodate for seam allowance. You’ll need enough sashing strips for each side of every block. Using a ruler and rotary cutter, cut strips of fabric in this measured length and desired width.

Sewing Your Quilt Blocks Together

Now it’s time to start sewing your quilt blocks together with sashing! Begin by placing two blocks right sides together with one sashing strip in between them. Pin them together along one edge before sewing them using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Press the seam open using a hot iron. Continue this process until you have all your blocks joined with sashing in a row.

Next, arrange your rows of quilt blocks once again on a flat surface before attaching them together using the same method as above. Repeat until all rows are joined together, forming one large piece.

Remember to press open all seams as you go along to achieve professional-looking results.

Finishing Touches

Once you have successfully sewn your quilt blocks together with sashing, it’s time to add any finishing touches that will give it an extra polished look. This can include adding borders or decorative stitching along the seams. Remember to press any new seams once again before adding these final touches.

After completing your quilt top, carefully trim any excess thread or fabric. You can then layer your quilt top with batting and a backing fabric and finish it off by quilting the three layers together.

Practice Makes Perfect

As with any new technique, practice is key to achieving a flawless result when sewing quilt blocks together with sashing. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly as you imagined. With each project, you’ll learn new tips and tricks to make the process more efficient and visually appealing.

In conclusion, sewing quilt blocks together with sashing is a beautiful and rewarding method that adds an extra touch of sophistication to your quilts. By understanding the process and using high-quality materials, you can create stunning and unique designs that will be cherished for years to come. So gather your supplies, follow these steps, and start creating your masterpiece today!

1) What is sashing in quilting and how is it used?

Sashing in quilting refers to strips of fabric that are placed between individual quilt blocks. It is used to separate the blocks and provide a clean and cohesive finish to the overall quilt top.

2) Do I need to use sashing when sewing quilt blocks together?

No, but using sashing can add visual interest and variety to your quilt. It also helps stabilize the quilt top and can be a useful technique for dealing with slight size differences between blocks.

3) What type of fabric should I use for sashing?

It’s best to use the same type of fabric for sashing as you did for your quilt blocks. This helps maintain consistency in color and texture throughout the finished project.

4) How do I calculate the width of sashing needed for my quilt blocks?

To calculate the width of sashing, measure the height of your block and add 1 inch for seam allowance. This will be the finished width of your sashing. For example, if your block is 8 inches tall, you will cut your sashing strips at 9 inches.

5) Can I incorporate different patterns or colors into my sashing?

Yes, you can use different fabrics for your sashing to create unique and eye-catching designs. Just make sure they complement each other and don’t clash with the colors or patterns in your blocks.

6) How can I ensure my quilt blocks line up perfectly when using sashing?

To line up your quilt blocks perfectly with sashing, be sure to use precise measurements, pinning techniques, and always check alignment before sewing. You can also use techniques such as marking intersections or using cornerstones for added accuracy.

In conclusion, sewing quilt blocks together with sashing is a technique that can elevate the overall look and structure of your quilt. It allows for precision and consistency in block placement while also providing a visually appealing design element. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully sew quilt blocks together with sashing and create a beautiful finished product.

The key points to keep in mind when sewing quilt blocks together with sashing are to accurately measure and cut your sashing strips, pin carefully to ensure straight lines, and take time to match up seams for a seamless appearance. Additionally, incorporating different widths and colors of sashing can add interest and variation to your quilt top.

Furthermore, practicing proper pressing techniques can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your quilt. Pressing towards the darker fabric and using steam or pressing spray can help achieve flat seams and crisp edges.

Remember that patience, precision, and attention to detail are crucial when working with sashing. Take your time during the process to ensure each block is aligned correctly within the sashing strips. With practice, you can master this technique and create stunning quilts with perfectly sewn blocks.

In conclusion, sewing quilt blocks together with sashing is a valuable skill for any quilter to possess. It not only adds