I would like to enlarge a block because the pattern calls for
256 blocks. (too many!) The focal print in the block is 3 1/2" square, but I would like to make it 4 1/2" square. I'm not confident on figuring out the larger measurements for the bottom and side piece. Also, there is a 1 1/2" sashing strip for both the top and bottom of each row, and it is an integral part of the finished design, so am wondering if I need to enlarge it also
:?:
There are so many experts on this board, I'd like to learn from all of your knowledge. :idea: Hope my rough sketch comes thru.
Thanks sew much :D

What does the final block look like? I know you could figure out the ratio of 4.5 to 3.5 (1.29) but that would give you some wonky dimensions on the other pieces.

The 1 1/2" squares are muslin, and the 2 1/2" & 3 1/2" strips are darker tan. The large squares are color. The sashing strips are muslin. When it's all together it looks like the colored blocks are "floating", with the darker tan creating a shadow effect. The pattern is "Newport Beach" from Judy Martin's SCRAPS book.

You are enlarging the 3.5" square to 128.6%
If you enlarge the other pieces by that same amount the relationship will remain the same throughout.

So, multiply the various dimensions by 1.286:

3.5 x 1.286 = 4.501
1.5 x 1.286 = 1.929
2.5 x 1.286 = 3.215

I would try one block by cutting the pieces at 4.5", 2" and 3.25" The slight difference can be taken into account with the seam allowance.

I would add 1" to the 3.5" square, and the 2 non-1.5" squares. It changes the proportions but easier to find on the ruler than 4.9" :D

I do NOT do math, but I have a way of tackling this problem. If you want each block to be, for example 12" mark out a 12" square on a piece of paper you can then fold the paper into thirds, quarters, fifths, ect Draw out the design, add 1/2" for your seam allowances. Hope this helps. I have done some very complex paper pieced stars this way.

I'm with Pam. I never figure out dimensions before I start a quilt. What I do is all my blocks first. Lay them out then decide what size I want trim and borders. This seems to work nicely for me. Most of the patterns I work with I make accordingly to the size I want not the size in the pattern.. good luck... you will do fine!

That pattern is a very simple drop shadow design. Make the squares the size that you want and change the other dimensions (shadows and spaces) to something that works well for cutting and piecing. You can leave them the same as they are in the pattern or make them a bit bigger. The shadow effect will change only in the appearance of the height the squares are floating (actually it's the angle of the light source, but that gets into perspective :roll: ). The wider the shadows, the higher they float. Draw it out on graph paper and color it to get an idea of what looks good to you. Don't make it harder than it is!

Interesting. I thought for sure if I didn't alter the shadow/space pieces it wouldn't have such a good shadow effect, and would look out of proportion.

:roll: