The Plaid Block
Here is another block that makes great use
of Value.
The above block does not have high
contrast. This block would look entirely different done with greater
contrast, using colors opposite on the color wheel, like green and red.
This block is easy in that it is composed
of only Squares and
Rectangles. The
biggest challenge is just the number of pieces in the block - and accurate
cutting, sewing, and careful ironing and handling of the fabric so that it does
not stretch the block out of shape.
I have divided the block into grids, although they are easy
to see. All the units are squares, except for the four rectangles.
If you wanted to make each unit 2-inches,
your rectangle would be cut at 3 1/2 - inches so that it would match the two
squares above - which lose 1/2 inch in the seam allowance.
When you sew the pieces together, make sure
all the seams go in different directions so you block will be flat and smooth.
There are several ways you can sew these
squares and rectangles together. One way is to first sew together each set
of two squares that attach to the rectangles.
Then you can sew the vertical and
horizontal rows together.
Another things to note about this block- it
is an even plaid. That means it looks the same no matter which way you
turn it. If it were an uneven plaid, you could turn the block and have
more design possibilities.
