Hi, I am trying to sew the block from last year...plaited block I liked the pattern marked unnamed...red, black and white..my problem is how do I sew the middle square in when the outsides are not squared? As you can tell I am a newbie and looking for any help that I can get. Looked in forum but no one else must have had trouble lol.would greaty appreciate your help. thanks sandra

can you post some pictures, I can't visualize what you're trying to do.

Posting photos is the best way to help. But the best overall suggestion is to make sure that everything is squared. AFter each step, put a plastic grid template over it. That's basically the only way to get a block to be accurate- Besides making accurate 1/4 seams. Be sure to measure the size seam you are sewing. It makes a huge difference and I didn't realize that for about 80 years.

the first one is the pattern from Main topic page 4 and the second is my block. thanks

If I am seeing it correctly you inside square is bigger than the outside ? I would square up the inside square , to make the edges even and that also should help bring the size down to match the outsides that you are trying to attach. Does that make sense ? You are doing great :thumbup:

I think you're doing great also. As long as you cut the white block according to the directions, continue to increase that center block with the other fabrics and then once the pink fabrics are sewn to it, trim it down to the proper size. Seam allowances make a huge difference when you're laying it out. But it looks like you have a great start. Love the fabrics, very fun, can't wait to see pictures of it finished. Keep us posted...

Before you cut the square, make sure that the triangle pieces from the alternate block will mate up properly. They form the continuing and interlocking part of the grid. When the triangles are not the right size, it disrupts the flow of the interlocking line. I have done this pattern a few times and love it. Would not consider this a beginner pattern. So good for you for trying your hand at this.

Here is one of mine that shows the flow I was talking about.

I'm not sure if you were asking about getting the center of this block together, but that would need some partial seaming. Line up one of the prints to a side of the white as you would if the print were the right length...but only sew a little bit of the seam, cut thread, press. Then you can add the other print to the print + white...it should be exactly the length of your piece now. Keep working around the white and you'll end up back at the danglin' piece that has the partial seam...complete it, and the center is done.
Geez, I hope this helps...I hope I read your question correctly...you've got great taste in blocks and fabs...the tricks can be learned...good luck on this one and those that will follow!

I'm so sorry, I should have welcomed you...noticed after all this that you really are new here....you're on your way...glad to have you!

Good point Bobbinwinder. I forgot that it takes a partial seam assembly. I still have to have the instructions in front of me to do those. I'll see if I can find them and sketch them out for you Sunny D.

Thanks for all your help!!! I ended up cutting strip and added a square.I will post a picture. I am going to try the particle seam as you said to do it and see how it turns out. :) Thanks again and happy sewing!

here is the middle done....turned out okay :) Thanks again for all your help..

Well, you are definitely a determined piecer, Sunny Days, and I applaud any and all efforts find a way to get it done!
I hope you'll try another one using the partial seam method so that you will have that trick in your bag for the future. As for the triangles that came out just a bit too small for the pattern as planned, you'll get that down too with a bit of practice...I'm guessing that they are off by just a little over .5"...most newer directions use a square in the corner sewn on the diagonal to create that "snowball" corner...this has a cut triangle so you would lay it right sides together with the rectangle and sew along the long edge of the triangle using a scant 1/4" seam allowance...then press it carefully back over the rectangle...for stability you can leave the rectangle intact...that also improves accuracy as the rectangle will remain true to size. Hey, I'm proud of you for stayin' with it...you've got lots going for you...stay with it...piecing takes practice but you're waaaaay ahead of the curve! Happy stitchin' to ya!

Thanks, hadn't noticed the triangles but you are right. I will try this one again and post it. Learning as I go :)

Trying again is the key! We are all learning as we go if we want to do better with each project...your enthusiasm has inspired me...thank you!

Good job on the block!!! :D:D:D It looks great!!!

cant help but your fabric choices are beautiful! :thumbup:

That's what I was going to say, partial sewing the seam.

okay did this one again and it turned out better..triangles are still alittle off but doing the partial seam was so EASY!! Thanks so much for all your help and happy sewing :)

Super. Now quit telling us that you are a newbie. Your work shows TALENT!

Oh my, yes, isn't this so obvious and heartwarming! Your talent and determination and attention to detail makes all of us so glad that you've found quilting and this board! Nothing is more inspiring than having the pleasure of sharing someone's sucess!
Sunny, I'm more than impressed...I'm thrilled! Please continue to inquire...we want you to know anything and everything that will enable you to do your best...and to continue to share your progress with us. Best regards and a big thumb's UP to ya!