Teaching Guide

Schedule: three sessions,
2 1/2 hours each

Session One
To swap:
When swapping blocks,
quilters are often
concerned about the
swapmates’ color choices.
The joy of swapping is the
way it expands our color
palette. Sometimes
setting guidelines such as
background fabric or color
choice limits help to calm
these fears. Be sure to
include these guidelines in
the supply list. Also
prepare the quilters for
the individuals who “forget”
the suggestions. It is
often these blocks that
add zing to our quilts.

Log cabin blocks are
excellent for helping
quilters master that ever
elusive 1/4” seam allowance.
By cutting each segment
as described in the pattern
(instead of strip piecing)
each block is self
correcting.


For homework: Encourage
the students to return to
class with completed log
cabin blocks and charm
squares cut.

Session Two

Swap the log cabin blocks
and the charms squares
from session one. Use the
charm squares to make
the holly leaves and berries
for the appliqué. Use your
favorite method for
appliqué. The directions in
the pattern are for invisible
machine appliqué. Fine
needles such as 70/10
Schmetz needles give the
best results.


Homework: Sew the
swapped log cabin blocks
together to form the quilt
top. Baste the holly
leaves and berries. Make
yards of bias strips for
vines.

Session Three
Encourage the students to
explore their own appliqué
placement.

The unit appliqué method of
making up each bouquet of
holly leaves. It’s fun to
toss a bunch of leaves on
the quilt and just play until
you’re happy with the look.

© 2000 by Beth Ferrier for Applewood Farm Publications
All Rights Reserved. For individual purchaser use only.
Not to be copied or sold without prior permission from
Applewood Farm Publications

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