Homeward Bound Month 7

Applipops

Okay, I'll admit it.  Even though this project is a lot of work, I am a bit obsessed with it.  I know
Sarah Fielke designed it and hundreds of quilters are making it all over the world, but it feels perfectly unique to me.  I'm always a little shocked when I get a section done.  Shocked by what I learned, how much better I am at the end of the month than at the beginning, and how it looks totally different from everyone else's. 

This month wasn't any different.  Well, it was different because it took a bit longer than the other months.  With July, we have entered the 3-month phase of hand appliquing the main border.  I've never did a border like this - where you have to get the placement close to right on all 4 sides.  Plus I'm still honing my hand applique skills.  

Use drafting templates to cut the right size circle

The skill this month was learning how to use my new applipops.  Since this month had 28 little 3/8" circles to do, I finally called uncle and bought a set of these little metal washers that help you form fabric circles perfectly.  From the directions and the many, many videos on YouTube they looked easy enough to use. Right?  Well of course not.  Like anything else, there was a learning curve. (I'm sure it didn't hurt that I had to start with the smallest of small circles). 

Flat side against flat side

Tips that Helped

Use Sta-Flo liquid starch full-strength

Apply with a stiff brush but not sopping wet

Leave a 1/8" seam allowance for small circles

Place the fabric between the Flat side of one ring, sandwiching the flat side of another ring

Let them cool completely

Give one final press

Finger shape with full strength starch & Iron

By the time I did my last little circles, they were coming out great.  I really liked spending my time prepping the circles rather than trying to needle-turn them into shape.  

I'm really glad I bought the applipops.  I like how they come in a nice microsuede pouch, organized with a nice wire hanger.  I bought two sets since it takes a good 10 min for the circles to cool, but you can even buy custom-sized sets if you want.  I can totally see myself prepping up circles and using them as a take along project.

40 hours later, Month 7 is done and onto Month 8...I figure sooner or later I'll get caught up.  Really, hand applique is one of those things that can't be rushed!

So What Have You Been Up to Creatively?