3D Bow Tie Blocks

 

My friend Audrey has been hand stitching some gorgeous bow tie blocks. It inspired me to make some as well. I did not think that hand piecing was the way to go for me. Audrey obviously is the expert in that department!

I remembered from years ago, being shown how to make them without set in seams. So I decided to give it a try and see if I could remember the steps.

I cut five 2 1/2" squares (three dark, two light) and arranged them in a four patch. I pressed the extra dark square in half.

I inserted the pressed piece between the top two squares, lining up the raw edges, and stitched along the right hand side, using a quarter inch seam allowance.

I then opened the unit and repeated the other side, making sure to place the dark and light on opposite sides of the first dark and light squares.

I sewed a seam just like the first step.

 

Then I opened the folded piece, and lined up the raw edges, so that they would be sewn into the final seam. I pinned them into place to be sure they didn't shift.

And what do you know? It worked! I ended up with a cute little bow tie block, 3D, and no set in seams.

 Pinwheel press the seam allowances just like any other four patch. Then, flip it over and give it a good press on the front as well.

Pretty sure I'm going to have to make some more of these!
Go give it a try, and enjoy every stitch!
Diane