what is meant as "tube" I have read a few patterns calling to make some blocks and then sewing them into a tube?? Can anyone help me to understand how tube quilting is done?

Depending on what pattern you are talking about. I have made bargello in the round quilts, where you sew strips of fabric together in different widths and then sew them together in a tube; you then follow the pattern directions and rip out certain rows and that will make the bargello form. I also use the tube method when I make bias binding. Hope that helps, it is really very easy. Jo

Missouri star quilt company have an excellent tutorial on Youtube demonstrating using the tube method to make blocks. Basically it is a shortcut to sewing and cutting blocks such as hourglass.

An example of the results would be my avatar quilt. However, there are many other patterns using the tube technique. If you want a better look, you could check this thread. Page 2 for a closer look, and Page 5 (or is it Pg 7?) for the pattern details.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-112573-1.htm

So that you won't get confused .... you have the technique reversed. First you sew strips together, make a tube, then you make the blocks, that get joined together.

The Missouri link suggestd is a good one. PLus there are a gazillion more, if you check in with Mr. Google! :lol: