Jumping Jacks

What a fun block to make for a baby quilt! Old fashioned calico prints of red, blue, and yellow with a touch of green, alternate with natural muslin. I used tiny red gingham for the center circles, outer border and backing.

The die, Endless Chain from Blue Wren, makes cutting the blades and circles so easy. Sewing went quickly to make the hexagons. More time was needed for adding the circles, then stitching the rows together. Those Y-seams get easier the more you do, just don't get in a rush. I recommend keeping precise 1/4” seam allowances, also begin and end seams 1/4" away from edge, using lock stitches.  

I tried a new trick for the circles. I cut twice as many as I needed and sewed two with right sides together. Slash a small opening in the center of one side, turn it right side out, smooth and press. You could also use lightweight interfacing or thin cotton for the back circle. Pin onto the hexagon and stitch down, either by hand or machine.

I filled out the sides by adding muslin half rectangle triangles. I did have to trim them to fit but it worked out just fine. I squared up the sides before adding the borders.

For quilting, I used cream thread to sew across the muslin blades in a serpentine stitch. Jumping Jacks is 45” x 51” size.

This sweet design reminds me of 1930's and 1940's quilts, and I plan a scrappy one, then may try a modern version with bright colors. This die can also be used to make Dresden plate and simple fan blocks.

Dies used:
Blue Wren 6979 Endless Chain 5” sides

Accuquilt 55411 Half Rectangle Triangle 3” x 6”
55017 Strip 2½” for border / binding