Patterns

Arkansas License Plate block from the AMB Blog Tour

First the pattern. I could not get a pdf image to download and print out the correct size so I had to figure out a different way to go about it. You may want to read through first.

Click on the pattern images below (under pattern title). Right click and choose save image as. Then rename your document -- be sure to keep the jpg file name.  Be sure to see where you saved the new image. I saved to my desktop so I could find it easily and I can delete it or move it later.

Go to the new image and open it. Then print that new image.

IMPORTANT:  When printing go to print settings and change the scale to fill entire page.   If you do not, the pattern will not print out correctly.

I will give you measurements so you can check the accuracy after printing.

 Pattern (2 pages to save)

After you have printed the image, do a quick measurement to see if you are close.

The white diamond sides should each measure a tad over 6 inches.  The right triangle on the second page should be between 7 3/4 inches and 8 inches. This pattern piece is large to trim after sewing so you should be okay.

I am sorry this is such a pain but it is the only thing I can do to get it correct. The pdf files just would not work for me.

Tutorial for Akansas Block 

I cut all my pattern pieces out first. I then used steam-a-seam on the back of the applique pieces. Next, I laid all of the pieces out to make sure I had them all.

Step 1

Using the shorter strips sew one on opposite sides of large white diamond.

Then sew the larger blue strips on the other two edges.

I made the blue strips a little long so they will need to be trimmed even.

Step 2

Sew the red triangles to each side. I had a hard time getting these to turn out like I needed them to so I made them big and trimmed the block when finished.

Mark the center on the long side of the triangles and on the blue strips. Pin them together and stitch. (Remember, they will be large.)  I waited until they were all sewed on before I trimmed.

Step 3 

Position the applique where you want them. Just guess. It doesn't have to be exact.  Do not add the stars at this time.  They will be added after the block is trimmed again.

Carefully iron them in place. Then applique using a satin stitch. (I used a satin stitch because the letters are so small I was afraid to try a different stitch.)

Step 4

Trim the block down to 6 1/2 x 12 1/2 inches.

Step 5

Position a star on each corner, press them down, then applique.

Well, that's it. I hope this worked well for you. I am going to continue working on a way to make a pdf file that will print the right size.

If you have any problems, please let me know.