Wednesday, January 20, 2016

How did I NOT know about this tool?!

Seriously!!! 
I have been doing applique for years and never knew what a 1/4" Clover Bias Maker tool was, let alone that I could use it to create stems for my applique projects...in seconds!!

So easy peasy....I made a whole spool full! I'm hooked!

A Sew Along full of new learning already!

What do you enjoy most about a sew along?
I'm participating in Lori Holt's Bloom Sew Along and have already learned so much. First, okay, there's that amazing little tool mentioned above that is going to save me a ton of time in the future. (I'm definitely getting all the other sizes!)
Secondly, I'm also learning a new way to applique using Pellon interfacing in a lightweight non-fusible.(Click HERE to read Lori's tutorial.) I'm finding this method to be quick and easy with a neatly finished edge. I plan to machine applique my blocks using a blanket stitch for this sew along. 
 I prepared the applique pieces the evening before and was able to have my block sewn together in a half hour after work.  Bam! NOw that's what I'm talking about! Here's my first block:
Our finished blocks measure 12 1/2" x 12 1/2".
Guess what! I'm even stash busting my 30's tub of fabric for this one!
Don't ya love that feeling?!?!
(I know, I know, a lot of exclamation points in this post...the littlest things really do make me happy!)

Val's Quilting Studio

21 comments:

  1. Oh Val they make those Clover bias binding tools in several sizes too, not just 1/4". I have from 1/8" to 1" sizes. They are great for straight or bias bindings! Well at least you know about them now!

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  2. adorable block, the 30's repro collection is perfect for this project.

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  3. I've never made bias tape, but I have seen tutorials somewhere for making your own using pins on your ironing board to mimic the tool. Your block is adorable. I love those bright, cheery fabrics!

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  4. Very cute and I have looked at the bias maker for years, but never knew anyone who had used it. Great seeing your excitement using the new techniques.

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  5. So cute! My sister is sending me the templates, but I am not sure if I am going to use Lori's method or just go with Wonder Under and raw edges. I know I am not going to do it as handwork. I have used the bias tape maker in the past, but need to pick up the quarter inch one. Can't wait to join in on this one!

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  6. I bought one but haven't used it! I really like the look of this QAL, will be following your progress!

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  7. These are great - wouldn't make bias applique stems any other way! Cute block

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  8. I still have all my 'old' bias tape makers (not as fancy as the new) and very seldom use them. I love this block, but I found the templates just too expensive. You enjoy and I will watch.

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  9. It's great to see you so excited. I hope you have lots of fun with your new tool and your sew along.

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  10. I have a whole set of those Clover tape makers, and they work on non-bias strips too.

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  11. Your block is beautiful! Great use of the 30's fabrics! I haven't used the clover bias maker but have used the hera marker pictured many times. Looking forward to following along with the Bloom Sew Along.

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  12. Seriously, lovely Val, where have you been?? =) Those bias maker tools are brilliant, aren't they. So happy you and it have found each other. 1930's fabrics are my favourite, I am loving this new block of yours. I look forward to seeing the progress of this 1930's pretty!

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  13. Sounds like you are having lots of fun with this stitch along. The finished block turned out beautifully.

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  14. I have not heard about this sew along - need to check it out. Your block looks great!

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  15. Those bias tape makers are amazing for stems. You know there are a couple of small sizes to choose from, right? Your flower is so cheery, what a great use of the stash.

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  16. Hi Val!
    yes, it's great learning those tips and tricks from Lori's blog!
    What a great way to use the stash! Great to see your results!
    Enjoy your weekend!

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  17. Hi Val!
    yes, it's great learning those tips and tricks from Lori's blog!
    What a great way to use the stash! Great to see your results!
    Enjoy your weekend!

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  18. Lori's new quilt is gorgeous and your block is no exception. It looks like fun fabrics too.

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  19. love the flowers, makes it feel like spring! Loved seeing the blue flowers from RCS16. What fun

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  20. Leave it up to Clover...they come up with the best things for sewers. I love the old timey fabrics in your flower square. It is a precious piece. The quilt is going to be out of this world. Thanks for coming to see me today. My back is still too bad for me to sew on my two ongoing quilts. And then this week I fell down out farmhouse steps. UGH. I have to do the little things I can basically do reclined or in bed. I did have fun making that card.

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I have to admit, your comments make me smile! Thanks for sharing and for letting me know you stopped by. I Hope your day is awesome!

Val:)

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