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TreadleOn Block Exchanges - Basic Blocks - Rail Fence Blocks

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TOBE Blocks are exchanged between members, co-ordinated by a host, and they vary from year to year. You send in sets of blocks as specified by size and fabric and get back a selection from other makers...
These instructions are for the regular, easy, beginners' blocks and are useful for all sorts of projects

This block is good for making you work on your seam allowances, and you need to measure carefully before you make multiple blocks, and regularly as you work

You need:-
Strips of cotton fabric.
For one block, three pieces 2-1/2 by 6-1/2 inches. It's usual to have a pale plain (calico/muslin) strip in the centre for signing and two patterned strips for the sides. See the TOBE instructions for your particular swap for colours
TOBE fabrics should be pre-washed before cutting
Square ruler at least as big as your trimmed block size
Cutter and mat
Pencil
Treadle or hand-crank machine(s)
Cotton thread, please
railfencecut Cut your pieces for the first block. It's usual to have a central piece of unbleached muslin (calico) to use for signing the block.
See the TOBE page for precise instructions for fabrics
Even though these are quite short it helps to pin the pieces together before you sew, being careful not to sew over the pins
railfencesew Sew using a 1/4 inch or slightly scant 1/4 inch seam, Right Sides Together, into a block
railfencepress Press really efficiently, with the seams to one side, to the darker colour (this will normally be outwards)
railfencemeasure Check the size!

If your block is a tiny bit big you can trim, if too small you need to discard it and check your seam allowances
railfencesign Sign your blocks...
Instructions HERE (Link to pdf file)