2019 Octagon Block Workshop
Octagon Block Saturday Workshop - by Julia
The workshop started with coffee of course! Our Tutor for the day was Linda Mercer a former member of the group and the theme was using up your scraps.
Linda explained the three variations of an intriguing octagon block, 12”, 9” or 6” finished sizes all made slightly differently, but useful for using those little scraps we all have lurking in our stash. We had a template sheet to cut out and stick onto card and an instruction leaflet with all the cutting measurements for each block. Linda then explained how to sew the strips of fabric together before cutting out with the triangle template.
Most of us decided to tackle the 12” block first, the most difficult part was deciding on the colour sequence to make the swirling pattern pop! Design decided we set to on cutting (am I the only one who dislikes this bit?) . As we sewed some of us had to adjust our seams to make the templates fit, but with patience we got there. Next was sewing the triangles to the octagon, only one partial seam was needed and magically the block appeared.
After lunch we tried the smaller versions that were more random but equally lovely. Linda then shared how to adapt the design to make a lovely wreath table runner complete with flange/piping detail that turned out to be simple and all done on the machine, a bonus!
We had a refresher on doing mitred corners on our quilt binding and then Linda showed us how to use the tiniest of scraps ironed onto Vilene and covered with voile and quilted to make gorgeous fabric items. Many of us took scraps home that would have gone in the bin after seeing this!
The display at the end of the day of all the different blocks was stunning and a good time was had by all. As a relative newcomer to Shirley Quilters it was lovely to chat and get to know members better. I have since made another block and intend to sew them into a tote bag for a future show and tell. Watch this space!
