WIP String Quilt Challenge

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I’m finally getting caught up on my string quilt blocks.  As I previously posted, I already had two 4-patch blocks made up: 


Each string patch measures 6 inches, and each block measures 11-1/2 inches (unfinished).  I’ve been saving up “used” dryer sheets for months and have saved up a binful.  Should have enough for a couple of string quilts!


I’m going to make the quilt with 5 rows of 4 blocks each, so I’ll need to make 80 string patches.  I first had to iron each of the dryer sheets (argh!) so they would lay flat before I cut them:


The standard size for each dryer sheet is 6-1/2” x 9”.  So I just layered 6-8 sheets and cut the 9” side down to 6-1/2”.  Each sheet is now 6-1/2” square: 


So far I’ve made an additional 20 patches.  These are so much fun to make … and easy!  No seams to match, no tiny pieces to patch … just a straight stitch to zip through the sewing machine while I watch TV. 

I love using the dryer sheets.  Not only are the sheets lightweight but they also smell good.  They don’t need to be torn out like paper, and I’m recycling, which is good for the environment.

I still need to make 58 more patches!  Maybe I can make a bigger dent in my stash of novelty print strings:


Until next time … keep on quilting!


Comments

  1. BethJanuary 20, 2010 at 4:13 PM

    What a fantastic idea to use dryer sheets! I have never heard of that - I have been buying muslin for the foundation of my string blocks but I will definitely be using your idea for my next string project, thanks for a great tip! Your blocks are so cute - love all your fabrics!

    ReplyDelete
  2. West Michigan QuilterJanuary 21, 2010 at 6:40 PM

    I've never used dryer sheets before. I'm so new to this that I just sew my strings together. Maybe I'll try the sheets if I remember to collect them. Love what you've done.

    ReplyDelete
  3. ChrisJanuary 23, 2010 at 7:53 AM

    HI - I've used the dryer sheets as interfacing but not as a foundation. Didn't work so hot. Great idea - that would work slick! Can you tell me if there is a difference between "string" quilts and "strip" quilts? Thanks!!

    ReplyDelete
  4. QuiltpiecerJanuary 23, 2010 at 10:10 AM

    Hi, Chris, thanks for stopping by. String quilts are made from strips that are leftover from other projects. They're called "strings" because they are sometimes too narrow to use in a strip quilt ... some strips are as narrow as 1" to 1.25" ... so they are called strings. Hope this answers your question.

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