Join the Community Sampler Sew Along: Block 4 - Cactus
March 28, 2018
Hi Everyone,
Last week I had the pleasure of sewing the Cactus Block with Jess from the Graphic Design team. It was also her first time sewing a quilt block so I was excited to teach her all I know. It's super exciting to get to share your passion with others and see them over come their fear of trying something new. Sewing is meant to be a fun creative outlet that brings joy to your life. Sure there are some challenges along the way but like Jess shares below when mistakes arrive, fix them with a smile. Working with Jess was such a treat! With her sweet laid back style we jammed out to songs by Devendra Banhart, a American-Venezuelan singer-songwriter.
Do you listen to music while you sew? Or do you prefer Netflix or podcasts?
The construction of the Cactus Block was so fun to put together. This block was new to me and very easily made it's way to my top favorite quilt blocks. Read more about Jess's first quilt block below. Also comment below with any advice for first time quilters?
Cactus Block made with Splendid Fusion Fabrics
Click the image above to follow along!
Enjoy reading about Jess's experience about being a part of the Community Sampler Sew Along.
Prior to starting your quilt block did you have any sewing experience?
Not much! Very basic here and there... But I’ve always liked it.
Before starting your first quilt block lesson, what was your impression of quilting and how did you feel about doing this for the first time?
Quilting = beautiful form of design, strong organization, and a lot of focus. I was excited and at the same time a bit nervous because it is new to me. But then when I thought I’d be under the guidance of block Master Meli, everything felt right. :)
What was your favorite part about creating your first quilt block?
Seeing how from a little triangle piece, it starts growing through the seam allowances, with more and more pieces together until it’s a block, or in my case, a ‘half & half’ block. x)
What was the most difficult part about creating your quilt block?
When you realize you messed up something so simple (like the direction of one of the diagonals) → that feeling of "aghhh noooo, now I gotta go back and start that piece alllll over again" when you’ve already spent quite some time and effort doing it. Hehe, funny how something so obvious can get us sometimes…
What advice would you give someone who is new to quilting?
Just love the whole process especially, when mistakes arrive :p fix them with a smile.
How does it feel to have created your first quilt block?
Inspiring ♥ I’m seeing it as a little push to get more into sewing.
How has your idea of quilting changed after learning more about it?
It is more special and fun than what it looks like.
Do you see yourself quilting in the future?
Why not? I would like to make at least one entire quilt in my life.
This is Jess above looking pretty happy about how her block turned out!
Join me next week for the reveal of the new block. For the next installment of the AGF Community Sampler, I get to sew with Kelly from the Production Design Team!
Click on the pics below to read all about our previous blocks created for the Sew Along.
If you plan on being a part of the Community Sampler Sew Along hosted by Sharon Holland and Maureen Cracknell make sure to share your blocks on Instagram using the #CommunitySampler so other people can check out your finished blocks. That's my favorite part !!! I love getting see everyone's amazing blocks and fabric choices. Sew Alongs are the best to meet new sewing friends and share your passion with people who love the same craft you love.
Happy Sewing,
Meli