Nellie's Knots - Free PDF foundation piecing templates

Please allow me to formally introduce you to Nellie's Knots. I designed this block for the Sew Mama Sew giveaway and it was given this fab name by Sarah. I promised that I'd make the templates available to anyone that was interested, so here I am. I'm not giving a full on tutorial but I will give some very basic instructions. I was slightly miffed by the asymmetry in this original block and that's down to me changing my mind about how I was going to piece it after I'd drawn up the templates! Don't get me wrong I still think it's pretty but my OCD nature was bothered. 

If you also have issues with the need for symmetry you might want to make sure you layout all your paper pieces correctly before starting :) You can use this second mini block that I made for reference.

I found it very useful to layout all the fabric before I started chopping so that I could get the fabric placement straight in my mind. I also numbered each block so that I would be able to match things up after sewing.

 There are two parts to each paper pieced template, you need to cut the template in half horizontally to give an a and b section. Seam allowances are not included so you need to make sure that add a 1/4" around each section as below.

I've prepared templates in two different sizes: 3" and 6". The examples shown here are around 12" and 24" finished, both use 16 templates. You will need to print off Templates A and B (which is just a mirror image of the A template) in your chosen size. Obviously you can add as many blocks as you like :)

As you can see I've played around with fabric placement to give you another perspective on the design. I don't think I've got any more pearls of wisdom. If you have any questions about the blocks feel free to leave a comment and I'll answer in the replies so that everyone benefits from the answer.

You'll find the PDF templates are here.

If you make your own version we'd love to see it! Please use the #NelliesKnots on Instagram or add a picture to our flickr group.
That's all for now folks. I'm off to enjoy the sunshine :) Catch you soon x

Edited to add: You will find a free PDF pictorial guide for Nellie's Knots in our Payhip store and in the Freebies section of our website.

ET calling

Every once in a while a block comes along that screams "make me now". Lynne's new ET phone home block is one of those! I've spent the afternoon playing with Oakshotts and this lovely print from Basic Grey. Coincidentally the film, ET, was on the tv this afternoon.....(do-de-do-do twilight zone). The photo doesn't really do this justice but those of you who know what Oakshotts are like will know that the colours are way more gorgeous in real life. I cracked open my Colourbox for the first time in honour of this block ;)

I think I'll sash this block and turn it into a cushion or something similar. This is a really addictive block so I foresee more of these in my future!
Just before I go I'll point out that the Brit Quilt Swap has started sign-ups for the next round. We're back to making mini quilts this round :) It's good to see lots of familiar names in there!

Hope you're all having a good weekend so far. Catch you soon x