I recently made an 8" finished block, but now I want to make it into a 16" finished block. I thought I could simply double the measurements, but that didn't work. How is this done successfully?

take each part of the block and subtract the seam allowance. that leaves you with the real size, if you will. Double that then add the seam allowance back and you have the cutting size. So, if you have a 4-1/2" unfinished square in the block, subtract the seam allowance of 1/4" on all sides (totalling 1/2"). That leaves you with a 4" block. Double that, 8". Then add back the 1/2" you deducted and cut the new piece at 8-1/2". that will result in a doubled size block.

What block, maybe someone can help do the math.

nycquilter, This is what my husband said after he saw what I had done. I haven't had time to check it out, but it does make sense to me. Thanks.

The block was in the Thimbleberries book 'Pint Size Traditions' and it is called Flower in Bloom.

This is the way I enlarge patterns. I use graph paper and draw the block to actual size, then add the seam allowance to each component. It helps me to actually see the size of the parts.

Can you post a picture of the block you did as I am not familiar with that one,

If it is a paper piecing block, I use PosteRazor for it - it's a free program online and is absolutely fabulous. Without it, I would be totally lost.

It is just a regular pieced block, but not a traditional like a churn dash. It looks like a flower that is spinning around. I am not good at putting pictures online, but perhaps I should try again.

yes please

This topic was 14 years ago, but it is exactly what I need to read today. I've read so many ways to do this, but Aunt Mag's method is the one that actually made sense to me. So thank you!

If you used simple squares and they finish at say 2" in the block, just double at 4" and add 1/2" seam allowance - cut 4 1/2".
HSTs would need a little extra, cut 5" sqs sew, and trim to 4 1/2"

How do I enlarge a pattern?
 

If I can I use my printer. It has a tab where I can enlarge anything up to the 8 1/2 by 11 inches. I have even split it in half , then reconstruct it back together with tape. I also put marks on the copy so that I can realign the pattern back in the right direction.

I've used this method to enlarge and reduce patterns. It's very easy and foolproof. Added plus, NO MATH!

since it has risen again, here is the original block. wonder if she ever made the quilt?