by Lindsay Conner
Circle of Friends - String Circles Quilt Block
Class Description
Bring your fat quarters and swap fabric strips with your classmates for a fun and easy block that teaches two techniques: sewing a string block (on a freezer paper foundation) and sewing circles.
This class is perfect for any skill level, with two options to finish the block: as a simple machine-stitched applique or a more challenging inset circle. Each student will leave the class with a 12 1/2" quilt block. Consider hosting a charity quilt along—each quilter donates a block and the organizer finishes the quilt for a local organization.
Class Length
2 hours if students plan to make one block
3 hours if students plant to make two blocks—one to take and one for a charity quilt
Class Supply List
- Required text: Modern Bee—13 Quilts to Make with Friends by Lindsay Conner
- 2 fat quarters printed fabric for strips
- 1 fat quarter white background fabric
- Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets by C&T Publishing
- White or coordinating thread
- 12 1/2" square ruler and rotary cutter
- Olfa Circle Cutter
- Glue stick
TIP: Make a kit for the class. Let students select any two fat quarters and single spool of thread from the shop, and provide a sheet of freezer paper plus required square and strip of background fabric per block. You can even precut the freezer paper circles.
Classroom Preparation
Each student needs a sewing machine; set up common cutting and pressing stations.
Class Agenda
Follow the instructions beginning on page 104 to demonstrate how to:
1. Cut fat quarters into fabric strips of various sizes
2. Swap strips with classmates and sew to freezer paper foundation
3. Sew string circle to base fabric (applique or inset circle method)
