Tutorial - Include handkerchief edges in quilt block
Including handkerchiefs in a memory quilt is nothing new. But, often times, handkerchiefs contain intricate and beautiful edges that would normally be buried by the seam allowance.
This tutorial shows you a way to incorporate those details as the central part of the design.
This tutorial shows you a way to incorporate those details as the central part of the design.
This handkerchief is solid white except for the amazing embroidered edge. If you treated it as regular fabric, cutting a straight edge and using a quarter inch seam allowance, the beautiful curved shape and a almost all of the design would disappear.
First, take the handkerchief and fold two of the embroidered edges up to meet in the middle.
Then, if the handkerchief is thin, add interfacing onto the back. This will strengthen and add body to the fabric.
Then, if the handkerchief is thin, add interfacing onto the back. This will strengthen and add body to the fabric.
Next, use a thread similar in color to either the embroidery or the handkerchief and stitch right along the inside of the handkerchief edge. In this case, I followed the curve sewing each half down securely.
Cut your piece to the desired size. Then, either add a border as I did here, or sew it directly into your quilt.
Ta da! This block was part of a set of memorial pillows made from a grandmother's clothing and handkerchiefs. To see more, check out this blog post.
