The quilt-as-you-go method is when you piece together individual blocks adding the batting and the backing and then attaching the finished blocks together to make your quilt. The quilt-as-you-go method is a great way to save you some space when working on your project and as a quilter you can always do with more room to quilt. It is also a great way to finish big projects and smaller piece projects when you are using a smaller sewing machine. This is because you are sewing together individual blocks in the machine before sewing them together into one big block creating your finished quilt.
Give this method a try next time you start a quilt project and take note on how quickly you get your quilt done, most likely you will get it completed faster than your normal method of quilting. There are different preferences that people like to practice when using the quilt-as-you-go method. So simply pick the best method and or tricks that work best for you and start quilting!
The most traditional method of quilting-as-you-go is to complete and finish each block before attaching it to other finished blocks to complete the quilt overtime. You can save even more time if you buy precut blocks.
You can also create mini quilts. By combining blocks in sections and then combine them all together at the end to make up the whole quilt. You can start joining your blocks in pairs however you like to make it easier and to create a logical system. Begin sandwiching each pieced block with batting and backing. It is recommended to pick a busy pattern for backing so that it is easy to hide unless you want it to stand out. You should take each sandwich as a complete little mini quilt. Then quilt in the ditch and the sashing giving you a base to measure your seams when connecting the backing.
When combining two blocks sew them together as you would normally, putting the right sides together and sewing them together using a quarter inch seam allowance or whatever you prefer. When ironing your blocks make sure you use 100% cotton batting because when you iron the seam you will want it to be as flat as possible and 100% cotton will give you the best results for a flat surface. When ironing the seam do it in the middle of both of the seams of the two blocks to prevent bulkiness.
To expand your knowledge and abilities as a quilter always try and explore new ways to complete a quilt. Share your favorite tips and tricks for the quilt-as-you-go method on the Quilter’s Thread Mobile App.
Live Well. Quilt Well.