I am working on a pink sampler quilt, traditional (mostly) blocks, 6" finished. I've done most of the "easy" blocks, & have started on the harder ones. I was feeling pretty good about myself, until I tried the Kansas Trouble block. Sheesh. 5 days, 6 ruined blocks, & I-won't-even-tell-you how many ripped out seams later, it's done. No where near perfect, but it's as good as it's going to get :(.

any tips or advice on how to make smaller pieced blocks with teeny tiny pieces would be greatly appreciated. I need to have the top done by mid June so I have the time to quilt it by mid September, so can't spend 5 days on each block. Thanks in advance.

I cut and sew a little bigger, then trim the half square triangles to the right size, using a small rotary cutter and a 2 1/2 inch ruler. Then I square up each of the four blocks before joining them. Go slow and sew your seams carefully. What's funny is how simple sewing bigger blocks will be after you complete this project. Good luck.

Your K-troubles block is beautiful! I admire your persistence! I gave up on that block after 3 attempts. Have you considered paper piecing for those little blocks? I'm new at it but have had some success with 5 inch blocks. Your quilt looks great so far!

If you show what blocks you are going to work on they may work with my cut down method. It depends on what the quilt blocks are.

Here is the section with my shortcuts
http://www.quiltingboard.com/virtual...jsp?vsnum=1020

I can probably show you how to make them easier if I know what you want to make.

Your blocks look lovely.

I agree with Redmadder, it's easier to make the pieces a little larger, sew parts together, ( like your half square triangles ) then trim them to the correct size. Once all your pieces are ready, sew them together to make the block. They should come out the correct size that way.

Great tutorials & I'll have to read them more carefully tomorrow. The next block will likely be a Flying Swallows (if I'm able).

The strips along the side are paper pieced. "Genius" that I am, I didn't figure out to LEAVE THE PAPER IN til finished until I'd ruined, oh, three blocks.

Thank you. I'm trying :)

next to paper piecing starching works best. with lots of bias cuts heavy starch makes it easy. beautiful quilt