Hey Everyone, welcome back to Stitch Along Sunday.

Week 2 of the challenge and I love what has been created. First of all visit Ruth’s blog for Week 2 Rules. There is a template that needs to be downloaded.

Also visit the Stitch Along Sunday Gallery on Ruth’s blog to see what she and others are making.

Last week for Stitch Along Sunday – Week 1 I cut out 3 squares of different sizes for each season. Four sets of squares in spring, summer, fall and winter colours. I was also suppose to pick out some thread to go with the fabric but forgot to do that so did it this week. And when all was said and done I didn’t use all of my thread choices but picked different ones as I went.

Thread choices for each season

After printing off the template I traced it onto fusible web using a light box to make it easier to see the lines.I am using a different fusible from what I normally do as steam-a-seam 2 lite still isn’t available – they have had a production issue with the paper backing. I hope they solve the issue soon as it is my favourite. Today I am using Lite E-Z Steam ll from Pellon. This is my first go with it so I’ll see how I like it.

Light box with template on top

I followed the directions on the fusible and affixed it to my fabric squares to cut out the shapes.

Summer pieces cut out.

To get the exact placement of the pieces I once again used the light box. Placing the large square along the straight lines allowed me to see where to place the appliqué pieces. This way all would be identical in placement.

Applique pièces in position ready to be fused

To fuse in place I used a hot iron and a Teflon appliqué sheet to keep any sticky glue off of my iron.

Before stitching I applied stabilizer to the back of the square. I like to use Pellon Fusible Fleece which is lightweight and stays in the quilt. I find that it is barely noticeable once the stitching is done. The reason stabilizer is used is to give the stitches something extra to grab onto and sit a little nicer on top.

Stabilizer fused to back of each square

Stitching followed with the free motion zigzag stitch being used around each shape and a straight free motion stitch for the veins. I chose only to put the veins in the inner shape. I also decided to use a light coloured thread on the inner shape and a dark coloured thread on the outer shape to achieve high contrast between the fabric and thread. Here is a photo of each season below.

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter

This week done I wonder what we will be up to next week.

Happy Quilting!