Dear Jane J-1 Josepha's Jonquil

This block gave me SO much trouble.  I decided since my last set of diamonds turned out so poorly, I was going to try a different method on these:  reverse applique.  I only forgot two things:  1.) I really dislike reverse applique, and 2.) I'm really bad at it.  After much moaning and groaning and gnashing of teeth, I started the block completely over, saving only the middle square.  I even had to use a different background because the muslin was destroyed by my inept attempt at reverse applique.

J-1 Josepha's Jonquil

I created a mylar template and ironed the diamond around it using my little Clover iron.  Sadly, the template deformed with the heat, so my last diamond turned out a little wonky.  I pressed on regardless (literally).  I much prefer prepared applique to needle turn, so I dutifully basted my edges down, then basted my pieces in place. My positioning was not spot on, but I was getting sick of this block, so I just sewed everything in place and called it done.  So what if one of the diamonds looks like a bird's beak; it's done.  If it still bothers me after I've completed all 169 blocks then I'll fix it.

I learn so much from these little blocks.  I have barely gone "silver" on Dear Jane, and I can already see the improvement, especially with applique.  The term "goddess" is really appropriate for anyone who has completed their DJ.  After 169 blocks, 52 triangle and 4 kites, anyone would have developed mad skills! 

Happy quilting!