Welcome to Petal & Vine
I'm so excited to introduce the Petal & Vine Sew-Along. This collection is a whimsical quilt composed of sixteen blocks, each featuring its own fanciful flower surrounded by twirling, curling vines. It has simple pieced backgrounds and large appliqué pieces making it maker friendly.
Petal & Vine is part of my free monthly block pattern give-away. Join the fun as we start this fun sew-along! To learn more about this collection, fabric requirements for the full quilt, block release schedule, how to get free patterns and more, please read the Petal & Vine - Start Here" Blog. ➡️HERE
Now lets take a look at our first two blocks...
Block 1
Block 2
Stitching Tips
- The first step is piecing the background. It's important to be accurate with your cutting and piecing as this helps so much when putting the finished blocks together. I find it helpful to spray and press my fabric with starch (I use Best Press) before cutting. This helps to stabilize the fabric and reduces stretching while cutting, pressing and sewing.
- Most of the appliqué is gently curved, but there a few points on the leaves and petals and tighter curves here and there. It's helpful to keep your seam allowance narrow, between 1/8" and 3/16", especially on the points and tighter curves. I find I can make my points sharper and curves smoother with narrow seam allowances.
- There are a few inner points, one on each leaf and a couple on Block 2 flower. I always use Fray Check on inner points. (You can use another brand.) My method: make a small puddle of the liquid on something other than your patch. Using a large straight pin or other pointy object, I dip the tip in the liquid and apply a small amount to the inner point of patch in the seam allowance. (Do not use directly from the bottle as it will apply too much.) Let it dry. Cut into the inner point seam allowance almost all the way to the template, to within a few threads. Now turn edges under as normal. This will prevent fraying and keep those inner points sharp.
- I love using the Clover Bias Tape Maker to make my stems. If you haven't tried this tool, you may want to give it a try. It really makes it super easy. Just cut and press. You'll need the 3/8" size to make the stems for this project. Follow the directions on the packaging.
- Make sure to read my instruction for making the curved corner patches. When using the template, you only need to add appliqué turn under allowance to the curved edge. The straight edges already have the seam allowance added.
- I chose to do a chain stitch for the embroidered vine because it gives a little heavier look. I recommend 3 strands of floss or you can use size 8 pearl cotton.
- Lastly, if you're new to hand appliqué, need a little extra instruction or want to try my prepared hand appliqué method using freezer paper and starch you can:
Watch This Short Video Tutorial Here
and
Download Free Prepared Hand Appliqué Instructions Here
➡️BUY PATTERNS HERE
Get Free Pattern
I do hope you enjoy these block patterns as much as I enjoy designing them for you. I would love to hear from you! Drop a comment below or message me➡️HERE.
You can also find me on Instagram and Facebook. If you make a block and post pictures, please use #petalandvine and tag @colettebeltdesigns. I would love to have you join my Facebook group Colette Belt Designs Appliqué Quilt Group.
