The Kristen Quiltalong Week 6 - Quilt Top Construction

Welcome to Week 6 of the Kristen Quiltalong!  This week, we are taking all of our assembled blocks and turning them into a completed quilt top. Seeing your quilt take shape is one of the most exciting moments, and I can’t wait to see your finished Kristen Quilts!

Step One: Plan Your Layout
Before sewing your blocks together, lay them out to decide on your final quilt top layout. This step is crucial, especially if you’re making a scrappy version, to ensure a balanced distribution of colors and values.

TIP: Take a black and white photo of your layout once you’re happy with it. Photos can help you spot areas that may need adjusting and serve as a reference while you sew.

Step Two: Sew Your Rows and Make Your Sashing and Borders
Start by sewing your blocks together into rows. Pinning at intersections will help keep your seams aligned.

To make your long sashing pieces, sew all of your WOF strips together to make one giant sashing strips. Then use a ruler or your cutting mat to cut them down to size. Repeat with your border pieces.

Step Three: Join the Rows
Once your rows are complete, sew them together to create your quilt top. Take your time aligning seams and ensuring everything lays flat.

TIP: Make sure to watch the video this week for a tip about keeping things lined up when you sew your rows together

💡 Troubleshooting:

• If you having issues with your fabrics shifting when you sew your rows together, make sure to go back and watch the video!

• There are a lot of seams in this quilt that are close together since we have thin sashing pieces.

Looking Ahead: Next Steps
With your quilt top assembled, you’ll be ready for Week 7, where we will discuss basting, quilting, and binding.

Share Your Progress!
I’d love to see your quilt tops! Share your progress using #thekristenqal on Instagram and tag me @kitchentablequilting.

If you have questions or run into any issues, leave a comment below, reply to this email, or join me for an Instagram Q&A on Tuesday at 2 PM PST. I’ll be there to help troubleshoot and cheer you on!