For instruction purposes, the templates in the set are identified as follows: the shortest is piece A, the next longer is piece B, and so on. The longest is piece E.
For each Mariner’s Compass Block, cut: 32 of piece A , 16 of piece B, 8 of piece C, 4 of piece D, and 4 of piece E. Be sure that your choice of fabrics have plenty of contrast. Other options: Customize your center by using an octagon, pieced octagon, or a circle. To give your points depth, sew lighter and darker strips together and then cut the pieces. For a circular effect, sew a narrow strip to a wide strip and then cut the pieces.
Step by step instructions:
- Sew a piece A to both sides of each piece B as shown. Always sew towards the
point on the outside edge of the circle, and
handle bias cut pieces gently to avoid
stretching. Press the seam allowance towards
piece A. You will end up with 16 ABA units.
- Sew an ABA unit to both sides of each piece C as shown. Press the seam allowance towards the ABA units. You will have 8 ABC units.
- Now sew an ABC units to both sides of each piece D as shown. Press the seam allowance towards the ABC units. You will have 4 ABCD units.
- Sew an E piece in between 2 ABCD units, but do not sew into the seam allowance in the center. Press the seams towards the ABCD units. You now have 2 ABCDE units and 2 E pieces.
- Now set in the last 2 E pieces, starting at the dot and sewing in the direction of the arrow.
- Sew between the stars as shown in the illustration, but do not sew into the seam allowance. Then sew from each of the stars to the outside edge of the block.
- You are now ready to applique the block onto your background. If you would prefer to piece this part, QuiltSmith has a template available. Contact us for details.