These simple paper pieced ornaments are a fun way to use up your fabric scraps and fine-tune your basic paper piecing skills. They make sweet keepsakes, too.
Carol Doak's book, "Easy Machine Paper Piecing - 65 Quilt Blocks for Foundation Piecing" is a terrific resource. Over the years, I have paper pieced sailboats, cats, hearts and a large tulip from this book. I use a pad of Canson 9"x12" Vellum that I have on hand and then pull together colorful scraps of fabric - in this instance some Christmas and leaf fabrics.
Carol's Quilt Blocks chapter contains the "nuts and bolts" of machine paper piecing blocks. The Step-By-Step Sewing Procedure provides excellent instructions if you have never paper pieced before.
I trace the square I want to create, marking the numbers on the paper as well. Assemble in numerical order - reading through her helpful tips, too. Your finished piece will look like this:
Sew the backing (right sides together and turn out and press). Then, add embellishments if you desire and close the opening. Quilting works well on these small blocks if you choose not to embellish - or why not do both!
I've had packets of these cute 5" Hanger Hook/Hearts for many years and they are the perfect size for the blocks in the book. You will see that the hangers are available in various sizes through Ackfeld Manufacturing.
After the holidays, I'll made several heart blocks - using a collection of pink, red and white fabrics - and will send out as Valentines.
TOO MANY PROJECTS?
Do you have so many WIPs (Works In Progress) that you don't have time to create something this month? Here are a couple of sewing and quilting themed ornaments available online:
Classic Sewing Magazine is pleased to announce their First Annual Classic Sewing Christmas Ornament. The artwork of Judy Jamieson is beautifully presented on the china ornament. The antique thread stand is reminiscent of days gone by. The ornament size is 3-3/4" x 2-7/8".
(photo from www.classicsewingmagazine.com)
From the website: This cheery snowman is an eye-catching tree decoration with the red of the cardinal making a striking contrast to the complex color palate of the piece. The subtle quilt pattern is The Irish Chain - one of Jim's favorites.
(photo from www.jimshore.com)
What is your go-to, quick and creative little project? Or, have you seen an ornament that you know a quilter would love to receive? Let me know and we'll share the link with others, here.