35. Quilt Wiggly Spiral in a Spinning Square Block
This particular design works a bit differently from most other blocks we’ve quilted. We’re starting in the center and wiggling and spiraling our way outward. This is a fun way to quilt a single block or an entire quilt, though you will have to rotate quite a bit to keep the spiral spinning evenly outward.
Of course starting in the center means you have to deal with two loose threads right in the middle of the block from the beginning. Watch the video to see how I tied and buried the threads with a cheater needle so they wouldn’t be in my way while quilting.
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Ultimately this wiggly spiral design should feel very easy to quilt from the center to the outside, so long as you rotate your block often so you feel most comfortable forming those wiggly “U” shapes as you go.
The really nice thing about this design is you can avoid all the seam allowances in this block that can hang up your foot and cause you to form irregular stitches on the quilt.
You still may run into spots like this where your foot just feels stuck. Remember to stop stitching, bring your hands closer to the needle, carefully stitch slowly out of that area to a place where your foot moves more freely.
So after paper piecing and free motion quilting all of these Spinning Squares, do you want to tackle more paper piecing? How have you liked this set of blocks?
Don’t forget to swing back by tomorrow for Josh’s take on this cool design!
Let’s go quilt,
Leah Day
I used to hate paper piecing, but once you get the hang of it, it is rather enjoyable. The possibilities it affords also add to its charm. I love intricate blocks with lots of tiny pieces. This spinning square is lovely. My favorite is the simple line quilting that further accentuates the central design. I will use this in the future. In fact, I'm thinking of placemats using a rectangle rather than a square. Thanks, as always, Leah!
I took your Craftsy class for beginners FMQ. I live in the boonies so my cell service didn't let me take the class step by step. I did teach myself to paper piece…I can stitch in the ditch but now I am ready to move ahead. Do you have a DVD that you have done that you would suggest for me? I have begun following your 365 Days of FMQ. I love what I am seeing on your blogs.