Shortcuts (and longcuts) for the Third Weekend In October Quilt

Those who know me also know that I work on several projects at one time. Being semi-retired, I can make that work, while I could not when an employee. So I am going to use this venue to make notes that can be shared with others doing the Third Weekend In October quilt pattern designed by Ruth Powers Art Quilts. Click on the underlined words, and a new page will open to her website.  I have already made the quilt, and enjoyed it so much I decided to make it again, improving on my piecing, pressing and quilting skills. The process of dissecting the pattern, studying it and re-drafting it to suit my methods have given me insight I only wish I had before I began my first one. I have searched for a way to share this information without infringement on Ruth's copyright. The only thing I can come up with is that with proof of purchase of the pattern I will communicate with others privately. it was well worth the journey. I have a Facebook Page in my name, Elaine Rutledge through which others can PM me and we will try it. Ruth has long since gone on to other wonderful quilts. If she contacts me to restrict or amend any of this, I will respect her wishes. What I can share is not a replacement or substitute for Ruth's pattern. It only builds on that which she has already published. The questions I can answer include:

1. How many large leaves will I make? How many leaves does a fat quarter of fabric yield?

2. How can I maintain a correct grain line when doing foundation paper piecing?
           The answer to that is I have found it is easier to make templates, and use hand piecing methods to line them up, then machine stitch.

Today is February 5, and I have completed 3 blocks of 64 2-1/2" units.

This is a portion of the "map" I am using to piece the units. I re-drew the entire pattern on graph paper and colored it with my Prismacolor pencils. Then I cut the pattern into the 64 unit blocks, and piece according to that section of the map. It has been a big help to do this, in spite of all the time it took. I can immediately spot an error.

While I construct a "block" the units are on the batting covered design board, with sections of the map attached close by.

The 36" square bulletin board is perfect for a design board that is very portable.

Eventually, I will attach it to a rolling clothing rack so I can move it between the cutting table and sewing area.