My time

I agree just do it! Give yourself permission to make the odd mistake. We are usually the only ones who notice these. I have never had much trouble with little squares either. L did use leaders and enders, but I didn't starch or use stabilizer . Like they say ignorance is bliss!
I have to say QuiltE that cow turned out great!

QuiltE

Thank you!!!! .... I know the subject aka the cow is not for everyone, but I still like to show what has been done, for some inspiration.

cabbagepatchkid

Don't be nervous using small squares, just take your time, being careful of your scant 1/4 inch seam allowance.

A sharp needle plus VERY careful pressing is also important.

I've done log cabin blocks using 1inch strips and also 9 patch blocks using 1 inch individual squares and they come out great! Once you get used to working with small squares the regular sizes will look huge to you!

QuiltE----your cow quilt is awesome!!!

annesthreads

I'm making 36-patch blocks at the moment, using 2in squares, and that's fine - I've had no problems just sewing them together, no pins.

QuiltE

............. and not only will regular sizes look huge ... but they will feel outright huge, and awkward!



Thanks CabbagePatchKid ... the cow was truly a Labour of Love project!
It started somewhat as a challenge, more so a dare from a friend.
Once that happened, I just had to keep at it to prove him wrong, and that yes, I could do it!

DresiArnaz

On another thread someone mentioned using adding machine tape.

Thank you.

It's working out nicely.

annesthreads

Yes, I agree - after playing with 2in squares, a 3.5in 9patch looks ridiculously big and clumsy!

Rhonda

If you are still looking for advice -

I am a miniaturist and I use down to 3/4" squares.

so -
Be as accurate as you can with every step.
Measure every time you join squares together so if one is off and you need to adjust you can do it now instead of
seeing how off it is down the road.

I tack the corners so they can't move. This is a stitch or two on the side where the seam will go through.
I iron every time I join anything. the more you iron the easier it is to join squares. If the fabric isn't flat it is harder
to handle in my opinion.

If working with small squares - I like to sew 4 together and then continue with 4 patches and then sew the 4 patches together. it gives you more to hang onto and makes it easier to handle.
When you sew single rows at a time it is easy to get off some in your size. You can end up with 2 rows that are different lengths when done. the 4 patches helps to keep from skewing the squares as you join them.

Aurora

Rhonda,

That is an excellent tip. I only hope I can remember it, the next time I am sewing small squares together.

Onebyone

I had a class block that had 1" finished squares. I paper pieced the squares to make bigger squares then sewed those together.