The finished size for this 12 block project quilt is approximately 52" x 64".  One pattern for this Block Series project is to be published until a total of 12 patterns have been issued for 2005-2006.  This quilt is a great way to use up scraps from your stash!

     Each block pattern (referred to as "mini-blocks" for the duration of this project) measures 6" finished and, for the design of this quilt, is considered to be only 1/4 of a larger block.  With this in mind, you need to print four (4) copies of each mini-block pattern and complete them with your fabric selections.  Once the four (4) mini-blocks are finished, sew them into a larger block, which measures 12.5" unfinished.  Sewing the mini-blocks together is where the fun begins!  

     Different "looks" for the larger block can be obtained by rotating the mini-blocks in different directions.  Play with the layout placement of each one, until you have the "look" that is pleasing to you.  For a better understanding of this concept, refer to the four samples below.  Each block is made using the same mini-block pattern (in this case, it is the Block 1 given above), with the only difference being how the mini-blocks have been rotated.  My favorite layout is the first sample shown, with the second sample coming in closely.

     Paper-piece each pattern using your favorite technique.  It is recommended that you leave the paper foundation used for paper-piecing in the quilt blocks until the entire quilt top is finished, in an effort to keep each block from stretching (as we are dealing with a lot of bias edges).   Once the top is complete, remove the paper foundations, then quilt it.  

STAINED GLASS QUILT SAMPLE

  Instead of using paper (and having to remove it!) as a foundation, it is possible to use a non-woven, lightweight foundation that remains in the quilt.  These lightweight, inexpensive foundations (often called interfacings) are readily available at quilt shops and also in fabric departments of most national chain discount stores.   I would not recommend using a non-woven foundation, however, if you plan on hand-quilting the project (too many layers to quilt through!).

  The Stained Glass Quilt blocks have been designed so that they should each print from your browser at 6.5".  This size allows each pattern to print in its entirety on one page.  If you cannot get your pattern to print at this size, simply e-mail me for my snail address, then send me a SASE and I'll send you a copy of the pattern.

     Here are a few guidelines regarding this project: 

• Fabric selections.  100% cottons.  This is an excellent project for you to use up all of those scraps!  Or you can use FQs that you have collected.  Or, if worse comes to worse, you may have to go shopping to buy new fabric.

• Fabric colors.  Any fabric colors can be used.  The commonality between each block is in the black "leading" for each stained glass window.

• The quilt.  So, what's this quilt going to look like when finished?  Well, it's going to be entirely made up of stained glass blocks, however the blocks themselves do not have to have the same layout as shown in the samples.  You can choose any type of layout that you want.  Additionally, you can even add a sashing for the blocks (Attic Windows would look great), however the quilt size given above does not include a sashing.  The quilt size above includes a 2" inner border and a 6" outer border.

     Have fun!

©