I do hope you are enjoying our Sprout 2024 skill building challenge!
There have been some fabulous blocks so far and still more to come. The filler blocks are some extra bonuses for when we get to piece our quilt top, mine is a combination of my Blooming Dresdens block and the adorable Bart who was the bonus sign up pattern from Sondrasa of Art Quilts By Design.
You will need:
5" x 9" background fabric
Coloured fabric scraps from your Sprout 2024 blocks
Small Dresden template (from Blooming Dresdens)
Circle template (from Blooming Dresdens) - fold and then cut in half
Bart pattern
Fusible web
Step 1
Cut out:
(10) Small Dresden template pieces from your scrap fabric, I have used 2 fabrics in the example but you really can go as scrappy as you like, I would just recommend keeping in mind that you will want to have some contrast between your Dresden and Bart fabrics.
(1) Half circle.
Bart pieces on fusible web and then from fabric as per instructions in the pattern.
Step 2
Fold the Dresden pieces in half longways right sides together.
Sew 1/4" seam along the top (wider) edge.
Step 3
Turn the pieces right sides out (use something small and blunt to poke out the corners) and press.
Step 4
Matching the top corners sew the Dresden blades together in to pairs, if you are planning to use alternate colours ensure to sew them together with one colour on the left and the other on the right consistently.
It does not matter if the bottom edges match up perfectly, concentrate on matching the top corners.
Press.
Step 5
Matching the top corners sew the pairs together to make a half Dresden plate.
Press.
Step 6
Place the Dresden Plate towards the centre of the background fabric, ensure you leave enough space to trim the block and then for your seam allowance.
Place the half circle in the centre, make sure it covers all the raw edges.
Sew down the Dresden, I like to use a small zigzag stitch in a bold colour to add some definition but you can use any stitch.
Step 7
Using the applique layout guide fuse Bart in to one adorable teeny caterpillar.
Step 8
Audition Bart and decide where you think he will most enjoy spending his time.
Press Bart in to place.
Secure him, I use free motion in a contrasting colour but again you have the artistic licence here!
Step 9
Trim your block to 4 1/2" x 8 1/2" ensuring you leave at least 1/4" along the top and both sides.
You can leave a scant 1/4" or cut flush with the applique on the bottom edge as you want the raw edges to be caught when you sew your block in to your quilt.
Step 10
Take a moment to enjoy your fun filler block!
It will fit in to any of the 4" x 8" spaces that you would like to add one. (Indicated in blue)
Please tag me if you choose to show yours off on social media! @pearpawquilting
If you have any questions please reach out either using adelle@pearpawquilting.com, using the contact form or on social media.
For this one I used a straight stitch to sew down the Dresden blades and reversed the applique pieces for Bart so he's crawling in the opposite direction.
