Summer Sampler 2021: Vintage Restyle

Last summer I signed up for the Summer Sampler 2021: Vintage Restyle Sew-A-Long. I learned so much from this group! The vintage inspired blocks were given a modern twist and each block was designed by a different quilt designer.

Each Monday morning during the Sew-A-Long, a new block pattern would be emailed to all the participants. I liked that schedule and most weeks it was pretty easy to squeeze in making just one block.

Another advantage of the Sew-A-Long was the Facebook group comprised of the others making the sampler. Along with tips and tricks from the designers, these individuals could share their questions, ideas and advice. There were new products on the market that I had never heard of. One of the tips was to use Glue-Baste-It, a temporary basting glue when piecing. You just need tiny drops in the seam allowance. It dries quickly and hold the fabric firmly in place. I used the iron to quickly dry it. No pins needed. I usually just use then when the seam allowances are pressed to the side. The Best Press spray starch was another product I really liked. When cutting out your blocks, press your fabric with the Best Press first, then cut, for a sharper cut. It also works great to starch your finished blocks. Both of these products are available on Amazon and fabric stores.

The bright colors in the kit were so pretty! In many Sew-A-Longs you have the option of purchasing a pattern and fabric kit or just purchasing the pattern and selecting your own fabric.

There is something so soothing about sewing! Well…most days! There were some tricky corners and curves with some of these blocks. What I learned is that to be accurate, you have to be accurate. I had to learn to take my time and do it right the first time.

A quilt is not really a quilt until it is quilted. And what an important artistic feature the quilting adds! It is like giving your quilts a personality. This one was quilted by Kristi Ryan of Kristi’s Quilting in Kansas City. She did an amazing job!