Our BlockBuster library is a free resource that is designed to help you make the most of your Studio 180 Design tools. Whether you've made BlockBusters or just thought about it, this blog post will help you break down the instructions and use your tools to make these skill building blocks.
We're hosting a sew along on our social media using BlockBuster #42 Federal Square and our latest fabric collection with Island Batik, Freedom Rings. Let's work our way through this block that uses two of our most fundamental tools, the Tucker Trimmer® and the Wing Clipper®.
The header of a BlockBuster contains some great information that tells you some important things: the name of the block, the tools and any technique sheets needed, the difficulty rating, and the block number. Federal Square has a 2 star rating, perfect for someone who is just starting out with the tools, or for the more advanced quilter who wants a block that will be easy to put together.
There are color examples that feature the block in different fabrics. They are perfect for inspiration or helping you determine color and value placement.
Placed near the color example blocks is a line drawing that shows the units labeled by letter. This corresponds with the Unit Summary that is above the cutting chart. In earlier BlockBusters this is the only line drawing available, but in later blocks there are several line drawings that can be used as color audition charts.
One of the most important parts of a BlockBuster is the instruction section. It gives you tips for making the block. The tips can be various things like pressing suggestions, unit orientation, layout ideas, substitution possibilities, and things to look out for. Don't skip out on this section! It can help you make a better block.
In the Federal Square block the instruction section has important information on how to make the flying geese units depending on the fabric placement.
The final section of a BlockBuster is the cutting chart. Here you will find unit sizes for three different size blocks. There is a unit column with the name of the units and the letters that correspond with the unit summary. The number of units required column tells you exactly how many of each unit to make. Listed under each block size are the unit sizes, both cut size and finished size.
When you make a BlockBuster have your tool instructions on hand! You'll use them to determine what size to cut your strips and squares for the various units you need for the block. For instance, if you are making the 12" Federal Square block you'll need to make 3" finished hourglass units using the Tucker Trimmer®. Using the chart from the tool instructions find the column for 3" finished units and determine the starting square size.
You can then follow the tool instructions to construct and trim down your hourglass units. Repeat the process for the flying geese units.
A few helpful tips for working with a BlockBuster:
We hope you enjoyed these tips for working with our BlockBuster library. Be sure to join us on Facebook and Instagram for a sew along using Federal Square and our Freedom Rings fabric collection!
