Giving: February

For our first charity block of the year, we thought we’d make use of some fabric contributed last year. Even though packets of fabric will be available at our February meeting, we’re posting the block instructions now in case any of you would like to sew from stash. Either way, we’d like to have all completed blocks or unused packets returned by the March meeting.

The block for this first giving project is the Improv Quarter Log Cabin, made with black and white prints and a true white solid. Begin by cutting a squarish shape from the black and white fabric, about 3 1/2″ square, i.e. it shouldn’t necessarily be a square but close. Also cut several strips of both fabrics, 1 1/2″ – 3″ wide. Feel free to slant the strips or you can wait to give it some wonk when you trim each row before continuing on.

Suggested strip lengths:

2 each of white solid: 6″, 8″, 12″

2 each of each print: 8″, 10″, 14″

Or you may work with WOF and trim as you sew.

Sew a white strip to the left of the square; press and trim along bottom edge. Sew a white strip on the bottom of the square; press.

Continue adding rows, alternating solid and print. Trim left edge and bottom each time before going on to the next round.

Keep an eye on how your block size is progressing as you go – it might make a difference how much you trim or what size strip you use next. The final block size should be 12 1/2″ square. When you square it up, though, feel free to give it some wonk – even more than the sample block is great.

So that’s the plan! If you sew from stash, it would be great if you used prints with more black than white, considering most of our donated fabric is the opposite. If you have any questions, let Louise or Debbie know.