B-13

I chose to rotary cut the pieces and machine piece the block.

To calculate the sizes of your pieces, measure the actual sizes on the diagram. Add 1/2" onto each of the two measurements (height & width).
In this case you will have four 1 1/4" squares, four 3 1/2" x 1 1/4" rectangles, and one 3 1/2" square.

Sew them together as below.

Sew the long seams, being careful to match the existing vertical seams, and we have our first block!


Advice from my experience making this block:
1. Make sure you have a sharp blade in your rotary cutter.
2. Accuracy is VERY important - both when cutting and sewing.
3. Seams should be a teenie bit less than 1/4". This allows for the bump caused when you press the seams.
4. Sew slowly.
5. Check each seam allowance with your ruler when done. Put the ruler on top of the block with the seam under the 1/4" mark. You should not be able to see the fabric edge, either sticking out on the edge or through the clear ruler.
6. Press properly. I use a 3-step pressing method: a) Press the the seam to set it, without opening it. b) Seperate the layers and press the seam to the opposite side of where you want it to end up. c) Now press the seam in the right direction. It sounds like a lot of work, but is worth it.