|
How to Quilt>Chinese Lanterns Quilt Block for Chinese New Years
Chinese Lanterns Quilt Block
Chinese lanterns are popular decorating items. It makes sense that there are also quilt patterns that feature them. There are actually several styles of Chinese lantern quilt patterns. One Chinese lantern quilt block resembles a diamond, with triangles forming the design. The other is made of rectangles. While they sound very different, they do have something in common. Both rely on light and dark colors for dimension. If you would like to see the two different versions of this pattern, visit Quilt Block Library Chinese Lanterns quilt block pattern. The diamond Chinese lantern requires cutting 60 degree triangles. This gives the lantern a vertical feel. If you are making this version of the Chinese lantern, you will find it easy to stitch if you sew the top portion first, then the lower portion. Add them together to create the quilt block. It’s really rather simple. The second Chinese lantern pattern you find on the Quilt Block Library has an accordion look to it. It is sometimes called a Japanese lantern quilt block. This version is a more horizontal pattern. The key to both the vertical and the horizontal Chinese lantern patterns is in fabric selection. Lights and darks work together to create designs with depth. Color selection concerns many quilters. We all want our quilts to look just right and if we are not secure in our color choices, we worry about the final look. The first time I made the Chinese Lanterns quilt block, I chose the wrong color values. Once I realized the problem with the block, I chose different values, and the block took on a completely different look. You'll see the differences and an explanation here: Chinese Lanterns color value study. If you tend to be insecure about color choice, the idea of using colors to add depth may be overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be. Remember, quilting is supposed to be enjoyable – not stressful. An easy way to pick the “right” colors for your Chinese lantern quilt blocks is simply to experiment with the fabrics you like. It’s as easy as making a sample quilt block or two. If you don’t want to cut your fabric for experiments, you can use a tip that Alex Anderson thought of on a recent Eavesdrop on a Telephone Call segment with www.How-to-Quilt.com. Alex suggested scanning a piece of fabric using a home scanner, then printing it out on paper. It’s a really neat idea when you realize that you can develop a file of paper fabrics with which to experiment that matches your fabric stash! Once you have selected your fabrics, you are ready to cut your quilt pieces. With both the vertical and horizontal designs, cutting accurately is important. Rounding a corner instead of cutting a crisp edge will warp the look of the block. For the same reason, maintaining consistent seam allowances is important. If one seam allowance is one-quarter inch and the next is one-eighth, your block design will be ruined. Just take your time. If sewing by machine, use the guides on your machine plate to help keep your seams consistent. If you like foundation piecing, you can also find Chinese lantern quilt block patterns for that technique. With foundation piecing, you may use either paper or another piece of fabric for the back, or foundation. If using paper, it can be ripped away once all the piecing is complete. If using fabric for the foundation, don’t worry. It will be inside your quilt sandwich and will never be seen. Chinese lantern quilts are great for everyone who likes Asian influenced items. Wouldn’t a Chinese lantern quilt be a gorgeous and unique wedding gift for a couple who decorated their wedding or reception with actual Chinese lanterns? Of course, the quilt is a great Block of the Month project idea for quilters, too. The Chinese New Year is celebrated on different days from year to year. It always falls in January or February, though. In 2010, the Chinese New Year begins February 14 and begins the Year of the Tiger. Watch the video to see how to sew the Chinese Lanterns Quilt Block (the diamond-shaped one):
Happy Quilting!
Penny Halgren www.How-to-Quilt.com
©2010, Penny Halgren This article courtesy of http://www.How-To-Quilt.com. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
Search our site below by clicking the button next to www.How-to-Quilt.com. There are hundreds of articles all about quilting: |
|
