Part 2 – French Connection Sew Along – the blocks!
Welcome to Part 2… Now the fun begins! We get to start sewing!
Be sure to refer to the pattern for specifics on size and more detailed diagrams.
Click HERE for the instructions for this week.
I like to use Alphabitties and the Clover Wonder clips to help label my cut pieces. You will want to figure out how to stay organized. Another way is to use zip lock baggies or post-its. You can organize by the letter label or the unit number.
Main Block, Unit 1 – use fabric Units E, I and Q.
Alternate Block Unit 4 is made exactly the same way, using M, F and V fabric units.
Sew the Q unit to the E unit. Be sure to press toward the Light rectangle. This is a good time to chain piece. Leave the units attached and take the whole thing to the ironing board. Lay the “kite tail” with the Light rectangle units facing up. Set the seams with the iron, then just go down the row and press toward the light rectangle.
Once these are pressed, then take a scissors and clip the threads between the units.
Sew the units together – be sure they are positioned as shown.
Clip the seam and press away from the square.
Draw your sewing lines. they should intersect with the seams at the corner of the red square.
Stitch and cut apart, leaving a 1/4″ seam allowance.
Press toward the large triangle and trim to size.
Main Block Unit 2 – use fabric units L and R.
Alternate Block Unit 5 is made the same way using fabric units N and U.
Start with opposite corners. Stitch on the line.
Trim to 1/4″ seam and press.
Repeat with remaining corners.
Trim to size as needed.
Main Block Unit 3 – Fabric Units A and P
Alternate Block Unit 6 is made the same way using fabric units G and T.
Draw a pencil line from corner to corner on the back of the light fabric. Stitch a scant 1/4″ from each side of the line. Cut apart between the sewing lines and press to the dark fabric.
Take half of the units and draw a line from corner to corner across the seam. Layer right sides together with seams nesting.
Stitch a scant 1/4″ from each side of the line.
Cut apart between the sewing lines and press this seam OPEN.
Trim to size.
Assemble the Units to make the blocks.
Main Block: Note the direction of Unit 3 – the LIGHT fabric is placed toward the center.
Sew rows to one another. Make 5 Main Blocks.
Alternate Block: Note the direction of Unit 3 – the DARK fabric is placed toward the center.
Sew rows together. Make 4 Alternate Blocks.
That’s a lot of sewing to do in a week…..be sure to share your progress in the French Connection Facebook group!
