If you are joining us in making the Quilt-Along, you may find the following tips helpful when attaching the birdhouse opening (circles) and blackbirds to the corner birdhouses. The template patterns for both shapes are included in the Pattern Pages. If you are new to our site, it’s not too late to start as you will find all instructions included in the Pattern Pages.
I used a fusible web product (there are many available) to secure the shape to the background fabric. Then, I stitched around the edges of the shapes and added the details (eyes & wings) with hand embroidery stitches. Either embroidery floss (2 strands) or perle cotton will work well in this application. I opted for perle cotton as I like the heavier look it provides and it also forms a nice edging along the outline of the shapes.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
1/4 yard of fusible web
Embroidery needle
Perle cotton, No. 8 or embroidery floss (I used perle cotton)
Small embroidery scissors
Marking pencil to transfer stitching lines
1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions that accompany the fusible web to trace, cut, and attach the circles and birds to the Birdhouse blocks.
2. Use a decorative embroidery stitch, such as a blanket stitch, as shown, to secure the edges of the shapes to the background fabric.
3. Lightly mark the stitching lines onto the right side of the birds. Then stitch along the lines with a decorative stitch such as the stem stitch, as shown here.
4. The beak, legs, and feather lines were stitched with long basting-type stitches.
That completes the Birdhouse blocks. Be sure to check back for final assembly instructions.
Just a reminder that Quilting in the Garden at Alden Lane Nursery in Livermore, CA is coming up in just a few short weeks. If you are in the area, sure hope to see you there!
Happy stitching everyone!
