I haven't had a lot of time to work on my Baltimore block because I've been busy uploading some new tutorials - there are two more to date with more to come...
But back to my block. To start I first needed to baste my design to the background. Thread basting is the best approach as it saves the thread you're hand appliqueing with from getting caught on the many pins!
And then to get my needle threaded ready to start needleturn applique. One tip Nancy includes in her ebook instructions is to use only a short thread about 18-20" in length or the length from your arm to your elbow. This length is easiest to work with, it speeds up your action and is less strain on your arm, neck, and shoulder.... and yes, I'll admit, way back when, I used to think a longer thread was faster because I didn't need to thread the needle as often. I soon learned!
I tried Nancy's tip on threading a needle - oh my it really does make it easier and saves me time constantly stabbing the thread at the eye of the needle.
Like Nancy, I use a quilter's knot to start my applique and I actually made a lesson (with video) a few years back showing how it is done. You can find that lesson here:
So here are a couple of photos of my progress.
closeup of stitching
I have to admit, my progress hasn't been much because I signed up to test a pattern which has a deadline very soon but let's hope my progress on this Baltimore block is a lot greater once that pattern test is completed.
First though, I need to go back to Nancy's Baltimore Basics to read more of her many tips - her book is amazing!
Happy Crafting!
