Allegiance Part 1

Allegiance Quilt – Step 1

In this step we will make 18 pinwheel blocks.

Using Fabrics 1 and 3 make 18 pinwheel blocks. For the veteran’s quilt the blocks will finish to 6” (6.5” unfinished). For the Quilt of Valor the blocks will finish to 9” (9.5” unfinished).

There are many ways to make a pinwheel block and you should use your favorite method. If you are cutting half square triangles here are the cutting instructions:

Veteran’s quilt: Cut 36 squares in each fabric 3 7/8” and cut once on the diagonal.

Quilt of Valor: Cut 36 squares in each fabric 5 3/8” and cut once on the diagonal.

Alycia is making the Quilt of Valor size. So she calculated that using 42 inch wide fabric would yield 7 squares per strip. Therefore you would need 6 strips.

You can press the seam however you prefer. Just try to minimize the bulk at the center of the block. The direction of the seams on the edges of the block doesn't matter at all.

Alycia’s Method of Half Squares Triangles:

Alycia Cuts 5 ½ inch squares (as she is not the most perfect seamstress). Then she draws a line down the center of the light colored square.

I sew ¼ inch on either side of the line, and then cut down it. That way I don’t stretch a diagonal. Most of the time I do not need to trim down, but this gives me a little leeway in my imperfections.

Ta da!! Step 1 and 9 1/2 inch pinwheel block

PS –

I will always accept these quilts – the small ones will go to Honor Flight Northern Colorado. The larger ones to all of our locations.  You can also find your state coordinator – there is such a GREAT need for Quilts of Valor right now . So you are welcome to contact your state coordinator – or even request a destination when all finished ;-)  Questions?  Definitely let me know!