I’ve Been FRAMED!

Hi Quilting Friends,

Welcome back to the “Black & White Delight” Quilt-Along. If you’re just joining us, you may want to have a look at the “Welcome” post to help you catch up.

9 strips of Fabric D for Border #1
10 strips of Fabric B for Border #2
Sewing machine (obviously!)
Thread, of course
Iron & ironing board
Scissors for snipping thread
Pencil
Rotary cutter & mat
Ruler for cutting
Tape measure
Beverage & snack(s) for hydration and energy!

This week we’ll add the first border to the “Black & White Delight” quilt top, and prepare the second border for the appliques! When you’re adding borders, it is very important to make them the right size so your finished quilt will be squared and lie flat.

Place your quilt top on a large flat surface, like a big bed, large table or on the (clean) floor. Begin by measuring the length of the quilt at the left, right, and center. Add these three numbers together and then divide by three. This is your average length.

You’ll need to create two border pieces that are the average length by sewing Fabric D strips together. Measure carefully, and then cut two pieces that are the length that you need.

Sew the side borders to the right and left sides of your quilt. I usually use some pins to distribute any ease that’s needed along the sides of the quilt. After sewing, then press the borders toward the outside.

Now measure the width of the quilt top at the top, center, and bottom of the quilt. Find the average width, and then sew Fabric D strips together to make two pieces that are equal to the average width. Sew these pieces to the top and bottom of your quilt. Press the borders toward the outside edges.

Repeat the measuring process for the length of your quilt top, and then make two Border #2 pieces of Fabric B strips equal to the average length. You may choose to sew the Border #2 pieces to the sides of your quilt top now, or wait until after you’ve added the appliques. I waited, since I planned to machine applique. I knew that it would be easier for me to manipulate the Border #2 pieces as I added flowers and leaves if they weren’t attached to the quilt top.

Measure the quilt top for the top and bottom borders at the top, middle, and bottom of the quilt. If you haven’t already attached Border #2, then you’ll need to add 15 .5″ to the width to account for the width of two Border #2 and the future seams.

#bwqal_yourname @mspdesignsusa

Next week we’ll prepare our applique pieces! How exciting!!! Until then, may your stitches be straight, your bobbins full, and your seam ripper languishing in the sewing basket.

Happy quilting,

Sharon