Welcome to the Learning Curves BOM! I hope you're excited to try your hand at sewing unique curves. I designed each and every one of these blocks to help you build your confidence with curves. You may be thinking "how different ways can you sew a curve?" I'll tell you!
Just like you can combine HSTs into endless combinations, a curve template can be designed in many different ways. Each pattern in the Learning Curves BOM uses a slightly different template. Some months, the templates use registration marks. Some months, we'll trim curve units from all four sides of the block. Other months, we'll only trim from two sides of the block. Some patterns use quarter circle curves, others use half circles or inset circles.
I really mean it when I say you'll learn so much about sewing curves! With all these different templates and piecing methods, you'll gain confidence in your seams and know exactly how to tackle every kind of template.
I want to run through some quilting notions and tools that will help you in the Learning Curves BOM. Beyond the regular quilting tools (sewing machine, iron, rulers, thread and fabric that you love), having these tools in arm's reach will serve you well over the next twelve months.
Printer: It may be a little obvious, but you'll need access to a printer to use the templates. When you print the patterns, make sure that you're printing to 100% scale and always check the 1" test box. If you don't have quick access to a home printer, I've had really good experiences sending files to UPS for printing (remember to bring a ruler with you to check the test square! You can always ask them to reprint the file if it didn't print properly).
Rotary blade or scissors: It's the new year! Treat yourself to a fresh blade or get your scissors sharpened! I recommend a 45mm or 60 mm blade for cutting out curves. Smaller blades feel too small to me, but I encourage you to experiment to see which size you prefer.
Tape: Some of the Learning Curves templates require that multiple pieces are taped together. I've also been known to tape the templates to my fabric to cut out my units.
Pattern weights: I use pattern weights to make sure the templates don't move while I'm cutting my fabric. I don't use anything fancy - I went to the hardware store and picked up a handful of the biggest washers I could find.
Fabric pen or other marking tool: Sometimes I like to trace the templates directly onto my fabric. A handful of the Learning Curves pattern templates use registration marks - a fine tip marking tool is useful to transfer these.
Rotating cutting mat: This isn't strictly necessary, but a rotating cutting mat is very handy for cutting out curve units and trimming blocks to size.
Pins or craft glue: I primarily use pins when sewing curves, but I know lots of quilters like to glue baste their curve seams. I encourage you to experiment with both to find a sewing method you prefer.
I hope you find those tools handy in the coming months! I'd love to see you share your favorite quilting tools and progress pictures - use #LearningCurvesBOM and #mijapatterns over on Instagram so I'll be sure to see your projects.
Happy Quilting!