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 Many "Mini" Tips from Irene

 

Irene treated the Moonlight quilters to a wonderful program in April, detailing techniques and tips for every facet of designing, piecing and quilting a miniature quilt. Above all remember to have fun!

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If you have a tip to share with the guild members, submit it to the webmaster using the email link below. 

Patterns

  • Use any block design you like. Just reduce it in size.
  • If pattern uses 2 1/2" strips, try cutting it down to 1 1/2"
  • Make a sample block and see how it looks!

Fabric Selection-

  • Contrast is very important
  • Small prints rather than large are generally best
  • Tea Dye fabric to get an aged appearance. Coffee works too!

Cutting & Piecing-

  • Use 1/4" seam BUT check your actual seam measurement first by cutting 3 strips 5" x 1 1/2". Sew strips together and measure the center strip. It should be 1" exactly!
  • Use an awl or stiletto to feed small pieces under the presser foot

Pressing-

  • Finger Press or use 1/2 of a clothespin as a presser
  • Use a mini iron to press seams
  • Never iron! This will distort the blocks.
  • A terry towel on the counter makes a good pressing surface.
  • Spray starch is very helpful in stabilizing small pieces.

Quilting & Batting-

  • Don't overquilt!
  • Stitch in the ditch is a very good technique
  • 4 oz. or 6 oz poly batt works well. May even be pressed to remove bulk
  • Some minis need no batt. Or try flannel!

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