I did these two blocks today trying to get better at cutting. The Basketweave block seemed simpler in the picture but I had the most problems with it.

I am considering Mr. Roosevelt's Neck Tie for the fall colors block swap. Is is too simplistic?

By the way, the fabric I'm using came from a box of stuff that was cleaned out of my great Grandma's house when she died 20 years ago. When I unfolded it to cut my pieces, I notice written on the back corners of each piece "WASHED AND READY TO GO JUNE '63". Yikes!

Good grief! I forgot to attache the pictures!!! :oops:

make a "wonky" quilt on purpose! great fabric!

I think that both blocks in that fabric would make awesome baby quilts!!! And the second block would be wonderful in your block swap :D :D :D

Nice colors. I am using fabrics from my grandmothers stash from about the same time frame.

When you cut your fabrics are you using sissors or a rotary cutter and ruler?

If you have her fabrics, maybe you should wash again on a gentle cycle just to make sure they will wash and not end up in shreds due to age. Wouldn't want to go to all the work of a quilt only to find that the fabric has pasted its prime.

I really like both of your blocks!!
They are great & will make you a
lovely quilt. Thank you for sharing
with all of us!!
:D :D :D :D

I'm attempting to use a rotary cutter. It's a new experience for me and I seem to turn right when I want to go straight! :shock:

I didn't bother to wash the fabric again because I really had no intention of the practice blocks becoming anything. I'm just trying to see if I can make a block for the fall block swap without humiliating myself.

Well, if you are learning to use the rotary cutter, just go slow and keep your blade next to the ruler. You might try cutting pieces of fabric that are no longer than the ruler as opposed to cutting a 44" or 36" piece, that way you will feel more control.

If you find that you go off to the side, just line up the ruler with the part of the good edge you cut and straighten out your cut on the part that went off. You'll get the hang of it.

I love your blocks. That quilt will hold many memories. That is so cool to make it out of her fabric.

That is so cool that you can make the blocks for a quilt with your Grandmother's fabric. Very special.

And I don't think the second one is too simplistic at all! As a matter of fact, someone did it in the black and white swap and I got one! BTW, I think you're doing a great job for just being practice.

Cute blocks. Be kind to yourself, you're doing good.
I would recommend two things: (1) Starch the heck out of the material before cutting as it'll give it more body and (2) Make sure you have a couple of fingers off the ruler to give you traction and keep your ruler in place.
Again---way to go!! :) :)

Looks great, my "beginner" blocks didn't look half that good and the rotary cutting does get easier after a lot of practice.

I probably shouldn't say this on a quilting board, but I have NEVER starched anything other than the soles of basketball shoes. I do own a can of spray starch. Maybe tomorrow I'll practice starching.

The more you do the more you'll find what works for you and what doesn't. The important thing is not "how" you do it just that you keep on going. You'll be a pro before you know it.

That fabric is so sweet. Glad you dug it out to play with.

i think they both look great. i sure love that fabric.. very pretty :D

Lisa, That basketweave block is one I have learned to avoid! How can a simple block like that turn out to be the hardest to stitch up? I had a horrible time with it also.
I love the fabric from your Grandma's stash. I think you need to make a whole quilt with it. It'd sure be neat keep-sake.
I agree that you probably should try some spray starch or sizing on the fabric.
Meanwhile, have fun!

There are no quilt blocks that are too simplistic. All are beautiful so make what you like, as often as you like. Enjoy. :P