Woodland Squirrel, June's Block

 

Happy June! It's been a busy weekend so I apologize for the delayed posting. Our weekend was packed with yardwork, birthday celebrations, a trip to the cemetery and a trip to a veteran's memorial. We could have used one more day in our long weekend since we didn't get to planting the garden yet. My tomato starts have outgrown their pots and are screaming to get outside! I hope to get the garden planted within the next couple of days. I hope that you had a relaxing long weekend too!

Let's get to this month's block. It's an adorable squirrel. The pattern can be found on the Quilt Doodle Website as a FREE PDF download this month. So go on over to the website and download and print your pattern so that you don't miss out on it. Hint: download the monthly patterns and print them up even if you don't have time to make the block. Keep all of the patterns together in a folder for when you are ready to make the Woodland BOM 2021 quilt.

I've decided to make my squirrel white/cream.  I used to have an albino squirrel visit my bird feeders over the years. I haven't seen him this year but neighbors have reported seeing him so I know he's still around. Your squirrel can be gray, brown even red if you'd like. Have fun and make this little critter your own. Let's get started....

Out of the cream flannel, cut a 10 1/2" x 10 1/2" square for your block background.

For the applique you will need a green, red and I am using white for the squirrel's body. Your squirrel can be brown, gray or even red.

Trace the applique shapes onto the paper side of your fusible web. Iron it onto the wrong side of your fabric following the manufactures directions.

Cut the design shapes out. I like to use my applique scissors from OLFA.

Place the pieces onto the background block following the layout page from the pattern. Remember to peel off the paper backing. I have been known to forget this step and then wonder why it's not fusing in place! Iron your pieces in place following the manufactures directions for the fusible web that you are using.

When we first started this quilt back in January, I mentioned that you keep track of what stitch you are using to stitch around the raw edges. I keep referring back to this picture which shows what buttonhole stitch I am using along with the stitch width and length. It's so easy just to snap a picture with you phone so that you have it for reference.

I stitched around all the raw edges of the design. I used a gold/cream variegated thread to stitch around the squirrels body. I wanted a little bit of a contrast to the background fabric so that my albino squirrel would stand out a little more. I used a brown thread to stitch around everything else.

I then stitched French knots using pearl cotton to make the squirrels nose and eyes.

~ Woodland Squirrel ~

I hope that you join me in this years BOM. It's an adorable quilt when it is done. Remember it's a mystery. You will get a new block each month and in December 2021 we will assemble the quilt together. The finished size of the quilt is 65" x 80". Each month the pattern is a free PDF instant download after that it will be available for $2.50 on my website and also in my Etsy shop.  It's not too late to join in on the fun. 

 There's also a Facebook Group, please join and post your progress! It's also fun to see everyone else progress too! I post links and sneak peeks throughout the month so you are to be sure not to miss anything. I hope that you have a wonderful relaxing weekend and find some time to quilt.

Hope that you enjoy making this month's block. I'm off to go and try to get some of my garden planted. It's a beautiful sunny day here in Minnesota!

Happy quilting,

Cindy and Belvedere