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Thursday, June 28, 2018

Clamshell Block How-To and Splendid Sampler Block 3

Sweet little clamshell block from the Splendid Sampler stitched by Andy of A Bright Corner

Boy oh boy was this block a learning experience for me!  At first I was so intimidated by the embroidery that I didn't even want to attempt it. 

But I do so love a good challenge, and for months now I've been wanting to improve my embroidery -- and by "improve", I mean actually learn how ;)

This week's Splendid Sampler block was designed by Helen Stubbings and it's called Clamshells.  You can download the free block pattern here.  

Before I talk about my attempt at embroidery I want to share some tips with you for those adorable little clamshells. 

Clamshell quilt block tips and tutorials

I have three tutorial links to share -and if you've never attempted clamshells before, I recommend reading through all three and then deciding which one appeals to you the most!  They each have some great tips and perhaps you'll end up using a mix of tutorials for your own block. 

Clamshells the iron-on way

Clamshells with the foil technique

Clamshells:  EPP style

That last tutorial is the one I used, since I'm a big english paper piecing fan!

Sweet little clamshell block from the Splendid Sampler stitched by Andy of A Bright Corner

Alright.  Now about that embroidery.  I've done just a bit of it before, but it's been so long that I'd forgotten even the basic stitches.  Youtube the rescue!

Quilting and embroidery - links to basic stitch tutorials

For this block we use the backstitch, the stem stitch, and the lazy daisy stitch.  Here are the youtube tutorials I used:

Backstitch how-to
Stem Stitch how-to
Lazy Daisy how-to

All three are from Mary Corbet (Needle 'n Thread)  and she has TONS more.  See them all here.

Sweet little clamshell block from the Splendid Sampler stitched by Andy of A Bright Corner

  I didn't use a hoop, and I feel like it turned out alright.  I'm pretty sure I used the wrong type of needle but since two strands of floss fit through the eye of the needle, I just kept going.

But my finished block isn't too shabby, right?  I think that once I get more comfortable with the basic stitches (and find the right needle) embroidery might be quite relaxing! 

Sweet little clamshell block from the Splendid Sampler stitched by Andy of A Bright Corner

Don't forget - find the free block pattern here, and join in the Splendid Sampler fun here on the blog, and here on the group Facebook page.  

And I HAVE been working behind the scenes on some full quilts - I promise!  I'll be sharing one here on Saturday!

Happy sewing,
--Andy


5 comments:

  1. Far from shabby. Love your block and recognise some Lori Holt fabrics there which are so bright and happy. I have yet to do mine but have been watching what everyone is doing. Kathryn Quilts

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  2. Andy, I love this quilt block and your version is so darn cute! Thanks for providing all of the tips and links.

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  3. That's nice and simple but I think you forgot to mention the materials used. I can just see embroidery floss
    all over.

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  4. Trying to read the tutorial on the iron on was near impossible due to pop ups I do t know how to fix. Anyway your EPP tutorial was great and I want to try that. Thank you for making something much easier than I imagined

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