Tutorial-Family Blocks

For this project I bought 1 1/2 inch blocks.

I  used craft paint and painted the edges of each block.

I made a template slightly smaller than the block's surface. I cut squares of scrapbook paper to cover each side of the block except the side for the family member's picture and name card.

I printed family member's pictures on regular paper(not photo paper.)

Adhere paper or photo to each side using Mod Podge. Allow drying time for each side. It sure is hard to wait but very necessary.

When paper is dry, apply an overcoat of Mod Podge to each side allowing drying time for each side.

You may even want to cover an old tin with scrapbooking paper and Mod Podge to hold the family blocks.  I hope the child who recieves this next Christmas will enjoy it.  I'm getting started early this year!!!!!!

Making Your Own Piping

Having the the right tools for the job always makes a project come together better.  This is a piping foot.  It is grooved on the bottom so that the cording itself rests in the groove and allows you to sew close to the cording.

When cutting your strips of fabric (especially if you have to go around corners like on a pillow) it is best to cut the strips of fabric on the bias.  This means at a 45 degree angle to the selvage.  I used my cutting mat which has this marking.  That sure made it easy.

Here you can see how the cord is in the fold of the fabric and the piping foot is running with the groove on the cord. I displayed this with the fabric open just to show you where the placement of the cord should be. When actually sewing it the fabric will be folded over...not open.

Here is the finished cording. After I finished the cording I put it on the pillows that I made for Jaime.