Matching points on a diagonal can be frustrating if it’s a new skill; I have been there before! The seam ripping. The cursing. And ohhhhh that seam ripping.
So, hello and welcome to this very special edition of “Rachel tries to do a quilting task one handed so she can take photos for a tutorial.” You are most likely here because you have a copy of the Nordic Snow pattern that was included with the November 2019 Quilter’s Candy membership.
Nordic Snow is a dynamic mini quilt design that is fairly straightforward. (This pattern can also be made into a large pillow–HERE is a good post on how to install a zipper when making a quilted pillow cover.) The most challenging bit of its construction is matching points on a diagonal in a few spots. In this tutorial, I will walk you through a quick way to ensure those points line up well!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you choose to click through and make a purchase.
TOOLS NEEDED
A small ruler or measuring gauge to measure 1/4″
A disappearing ink marking utensil
A seam ripper in case, well…you know.
Sewing machine and thread (stating the obvious here.)
Determine points that need to line up
In the photo below, the two points that will be matched up in this tutorial are circled in purple. Or pink? Let’s say magenta.
Measure 1/4″ from edge of stripe block
Take a small ruler or measuring gauge and measure 1/4″ up from the edge of the Stripe Block. In the photo below, you can see that I will be matching up the two Color 1 parts (navy fabric.)
Make a mark with a disappearing ink fabric marker to indicate the 1/4″ mark from the edge of the striped block. The 1/4″ mark is circled in magenta in the photo below.
With right sides together, line up the two Color 1 sections (navy fabric) at the point where you’ve made a mark with the fabric marker. Pin in place (or glue baste) at that spot and sew a seam. This should ensure these two spots line up well; if for some reason it’s a little off, have no fear. Grab that seam ripper and try that spot again. Or just leave it as is!
Sometimes I forgo seam ripping and say to myself “eh, that will quilt out.” Or “if people notice this, they’re looking too hard!” Or “the Amish purposefully leave at least one imperfect spot in every one of their quilts. This quilt is just super Amish.”
As shown in the photo below of the completed pillow, the points line up nicely using this method.
Hopefully this quick tutorial is helpful! I cannot wait to see all of your Nordic Snow quilts pop up on social media. Happy sewing!
Leave a Reply