The first block for 2021 is the Envelope Motif, this block was originally posted in the Kansas City Star in the 1940s. There are different variations of the block, including all four sections of the block with different color combinations. This would be great for a scrap block, with different colors/patterns in the four corners. Some even have the middle with a square block instead of the four colors. The instructions below are for white outside corners, and four different colors, and a solid background (black).
There are many options for this block (see end of blog for other options). I like the block with the four white outside corners. You have the option to have colorful corners if you would like.
The block will measure unfinished 12 1/2″ x 12 1/2″, or finished at 12″ x 12″.
Fabric Requirements – minimum pieces of fabric needed
Background (Black) – 12″ x 18″
White & Colors – 6″ x 6″ each
Fabric Cutting
Assembly
You will create four sets of 3 matching Half square Triangles (HST) and four matching Black/white Half Square triangles (HST)
We are breaking down the block to 4 squares – each square will have 3 identical HSTs and 1 different HST
Step 1 – four sets of Half Square Triangles (HST)
Using one Background and one color piece
Place Right sides together
Stitch 1/4″ along all four sides of the square (red line is the stitching
Cut Diagonally from Corner to corner both directions (purple lines).
Press open towards the dark side. You will have 4 HSTs.
Square up the HSTs using your favorite method to 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″ .
- For different methods to square up your HSTs, check out the January 2019 Snowflake BOM
Repeat for the other 3 colors.
Note: You will create 4 HST, and only need 3 HST of each color, if you choose to do the four white corners, if you do not wish to do the white corners, you can use all four for the block, and skip Step 2.
Step 2 – White corners Half Square Triangles (HST).
4 HST White/Black – 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″
Repeat Step 1 using one white and one black piece to create 4 White/Black HST.
Press seams towards the dark side.
Square up the HSTs using your favorite method to 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″
Step 3 – create the four corners squares
Using the four HST (3 matching, 1 alternative), layout to the following pattern.
Sew the four pieces together.
Take note when pressing your seams. You want to make sure that you press all four corners squares the same way, so that they will next together to reduce bulk in the final block.
Square up to 6 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ square.
Repeat for the other three colors, using the same layout.
Note: if you want to use all the same HST, layout in this layout.
Step 4 – Final assembly
Lay the four squares out to the following layout, remember to have the white square facing out in the corners.
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Sew the pieces together, and then press seams.
You have now completed the Envelope Motif, the first BOM for 2021
I look forward to seeing all your wonderful blocks! Make sure to post on the Facebook group! Remember to add the hashtag #EnvelopeMotif.
Click Here for a PDF of the instructions.
Here are some other options for the block, depending on your colors.
White background
Black background / four colors
White corners & white center.
Quilt options
With white outside corners
Without using the white corners.
Lisa's Quilting Passion 