I am currently making a mock cathedral window quilt for a neighbour, who is about to have a baby girl. It turned out to be more cost effective than my traditional gift of a crocheted baby blanket. The beauty of this pattern is that it is also a "quilt as you go", as each square is finished there is no need for additional layering or quilting.
So here are the instructions, just in case you want to know how to make one of these.
From cardboard make templates - one circle 8 1/2 inches, and one square 6 inches. Oh - you might want to make a few more templates if the originals become worn. You will use these template when ironing, so make sure the cardboard is sturdy.
From fabric cut circles - they need to be 8 1/2 inches finished - so don't forget to add a good 1/4 in allowance. I didn't have a good tool to make these so I improvised and went into the kitchen to find a round object that was the closest to this size - and side plate did the trick :) I used the same plate to make the cardboard template too.
From fabric and batting - cut 5 3/4 inch squares (yes that is the right mesurement).
With the wrong side of the circle fabric upwards - lightly apply a small amount of spray starch to the edges of the fabric. Lay the circle template over the centre of the circle fabric, and press the edges of the fabric over the template. The spray starch helps "set" the turned edges. Remove the cardboard template.
Lay the square template over the centre of the circle fabric. I usually pin down the four corners first - they define the points nicely, and give me a good guide to make sure that my squares a "true" when joining up the blocks. Press the edges of the fabric over the template.
Remove the square template, then place your piece of batting in the middle, and then place your centre fabric (right side up).
Fold the edges (wings) over, and pin the edges down.
Quilt through all layers. You can do this either on machine or by hand. I did mine by hand and used a running stitch to give it a naive look.
When all your squares are finished, assemble them by using a ladder stitch or whip stitch.
I have finished this quilt; to see the finished product and view my reflections click here.
