I ♥ Rainbows

  I♥Rainbows

This quilt was designed for 2013 Hands2Help Challenge. I just realized that I never added it to my list so I'm posting it again.

Uses 5 1/2 inch squares to make 9-patch blocks and includes a fusible heart applique

Finished size 47” x 47”

Another color idea

Supplies
(9) 5 1/2” squares of red, orange, yellow, green, blue-green, blue, purples, pink
(1) 15 1/2” square black
(1) 14 1/2” square red
14 1/2” piece of paper for drawing heart1/2 yard of fusible like Steam-A-Seam-2-Lite or Wonder Under
1/4 yard for borders
3/8 yard for bindingapprox. 53” x 53” backing
approx. 53” x 53” batting

1/4” seam for all piecing

Step 1 – Create the Heart Applique
Fold the 14 1/2” piece of paper in half and draw or cut out a large heart that fills the paper.

When you are happy with the heart shape trace it to the steam-a-seam fusible.

Peel the backing paper off and place on the wrong side of 14 1/2” red square. I like to hit it quickly with the iron to tack it in to place.

Cut out your heart.

Peel the remaining layer of paper off and center the heart on the 15 1/2” black square. Remember to leave a 1/4 inch seam allowance on all sides of the shape.

When you are happy with the placement fuse it in place following package directions.

Stitch around the edge of your heart using a zig-zag, satin or applique stitch to keep it from coming loose.

Step 2 - Make the 9-patch Blocks
Sew colored squares into rows of 3.

Press seams in opposite directions. This will make it easier to achieve perfectly matched corners later.

Sew rows together to make a 9-patch square and press.

Step 3 – Create the Quilt Design
Sew (3) blocks together to form a row
.

Press the row seams in opposite directions. This will make it easier to achieve perfectly matched corners later.

Sew rows together.

Step 4 – Cut and Attach the Borders
Cut (5) 1 1/2” wide strips selvage to selvage across the width of your fabric.

Piece strips together to make
(2) side borders 1 1/2” x 45 1/2”
(2) top/bottom borders 1 1/2” x 47 1/2”

Attach the side borders.Attach the top and bottom borders.

Press borders neatly.

Step 5 – Baste, Quilt and Bind
Baste, quilt and bind using the method of your choice.

Enjoy!