Trying Needle Turn...Again

I don't do needle turn applique...but I was somewhat determined to give it another chance. After watching The Quilt Show Episode #203 with Suzanne Marshall, I knew I would have to give up my preferred method and give needle turn another try. Suzanne was truly inspiring. I did learn needle turn many years ago but I really did not enjoy it. Keeping an open mind....

I picked a pattern with one block and got to work using Suzanne Marshall's tips from the episode. I prepared my pieces and started on my block. So far so good.

I went piece by piece until I got to this point. I had had enough. I figured I had done enough to give it a chance but I still don't like it. I finished the block using my preferred method using freezer paper and basting the seam allowances down.

I didn't do too badly. A few curves were a little more straight than they should have been and it was taking me forever but I was satisfied.

I realized that I like freezer paper applique for lots of reasons...

*I don't have to pay as much attention while I am sewing because I don't need to follow a line.

*I like seeing how the finished product is going to look as I sew.

*I am faster at it than I am with needle turn.

*Most of all, I enjoy it!

 

Has anyone noticed that the new freezer paper is a lighter weight than what we used to get?

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Something I will do from this episode is a new to me way of making bias stems. I don't know why everyone isn't doing it this way. It was fast, easy and I can make bias stems in any size without burning my fingers on those bias bars.

 

Simply start with a bias edge on a piece of fabric, fold it over a little less than 1/4" and press. Fold it again to make the size of stems you want and press. Baste down the center and cut from the main piece leaving the basting intact. You don't have to be neat as you trim! I used those fancy applique scissors I never use and they worked perfectly!

Amazing!

Next up...I am going to learn to hand quilt without a hoop. I am just getting my materials together for this one and can't wait to show how I do!

So what else has been taking up my time?

Veggies...delicious...

We have been harvesting yellow beans, golden beets, red onions, carrots, kohlrabi, peppers and soon we'll have corn and summer squash!

Happy Stitching!