Victorian Crazy-Quilt Blocks

Materials and Tools:

muslin for foundation (10" square)
18" x 22" squares of assorted fabrics
old lace, buttons and beads
sewing machine
scissors
pins
needles (type depends upon embellishment technique)
embroidery hoop (optional)
several colors of embroidery floss

Steps:

1. Draw desired pattern onto an 8" x 8" square of muslin using a hard pencil or sewer's tracing paper.

2. From the assorted fabrics, cut a piece that will be positioned in the center of the muslin square. Pin the piece to the back of the muslin so that pattern lines can be seen on top.

3. Cut a second piece of fabric and place the right side of piece 2 over piece 1 and sew along the seam line on the pattern.

4. Open and press the seam. The right sides should be face down, and the muslin pattern should be on the wrong side of the fabric. Fold muslin back, and trim excess fabric to within 1/4" of the seam.

5. Repeat technique, adding pieces of fabric, sewing, opening and pressing.

6. When all pieces are sewn, baste the outside edges of the fabric to the muslin and trim away any excess fabric.

7. Embellish the block with lace, ribbons, buttons, embroidery or beads as desired.