Patchwork quilts are true works of art that combine skill, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia.
For those venturing into the world of quilting, the Economy block is an ideal pattern to explore.
In this comprehensive tutorial, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create a beautiful quilt using the Economy block pattern.
Introduction to the Economy Block
The Economy block, also known as Square in a Square, is a popular quilt pattern for its simplicity and versatility. It consists of concentric squares that give the illusion of depth and movement, creating a visually appealing look for your quilt.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials for your quilting project. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Scrap fabrics in a variety of colors and prints
- Quilting ruler
- Rotary cutter or fabric scissors
- Sewing machine or needle and thread for hand sewing
- Iron for pressing
- Cutting mat
- Sewing pins
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your materials ready, let’s dive into the process of creating the Economy block:
Step 1: Cut the Fabrics
Start by cutting the scrap fabrics into squares of different sizes, depending on the desired final size of your Economy block. Make sure to follow a color and print pattern that complements each other.
Step 2: Assemble the Center Square
Take one of the smaller squares and place it in the center of the larger fabric square. Align the edges and pin in place.
Step 3: Sew Around
Carefully sew around the center square, maintaining a consistent seam allowance. You can use a sewing machine or hand sew, depending on your preference and skill level.
Step 4: Add Outer Squares
Now, take larger fabric squares and position them on each side of the center square. Again, align the edges and pin before sewing.
Step 5: Finish the Block
Sew around each outer square, maintaining a consistent seam allowance. Once finished, press the block with an iron to make it flat and defined.
Step 6: Repeat the Process
Repeat these steps to create more Economy blocks to the desired size for your quilt. You can vary the colors and prints of the fabrics to add visual interest.
Step 7: Assemble the Quilt
Finally, join the Economy blocks to form the quilt. Experiment with different layouts until you find one that you like. Once decided, sew the blocks together and add a border around the quilt if desired.
Additional Tips
- When cutting fabrics, remember to be precise and use a quilting ruler and rotary cutter for straight edges and accurate measurements.
- Practice precise sewing techniques to ensure that the blocks are aligned correctly when joined.
- Be creative with the colors and prints of the fabrics to create a unique and personalized quilt.
Conclusion
The Economy block is an accessible and rewarding quilting pattern for beginners, offering the opportunity to create beautiful patchwork quilts.
With this comprehensive tutorial, you’re ready to start your journey into the world of quilting and create your own textile masterpieces.
Have fun exploring colors, patterns, and techniques as you work on your Economy block quilt!
