Expert: Connie Hester - 4/30/2009

Question
QUESTION: I would like to make a diamond pattern from strip quilting.  I would like the diamonds to be set on point (like argyle) and would like them to be 6" high and 3" across when finished.  I do not know how wide to cut my strips and at what angle I cut them so that when sewen back together, I get perfect diamonds.  Thanks for your help

ANSWER: Using a ruler, draw the diamond shape on paper by first drawing a cross which is 6" tall and 3" wide. Then draw lines between the ends of the 2 crossed lines. Draw the desired number of strips inside the diamond as well, using the cross to divide the diamond into quarters to be strip-pieced.

You could then either trace the shapes, add seam allowances to them, and use them as templates, or you could add seam allowances to each shape, measure them, and use a rotary cutter to cut the shapes from your fabric.

On your initial drawing, extend the lines of the 6" x 3" diamond to make sure the same-sized diamonds will fit between the 6" x 3" diamonds. Otherwise, this will reveal the 2nd size of diamond which will be needed to complete your argyle pattern.

Let me know if I can be of further help.


Connie Hester

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Connie: Wow!! Thanks for the speedy response.   I am sorry that I did not make myself clear.  I have only been quilting a few years.  I would like my quilt to look like this quilt.
http://www.junetailor.com/Creativity%20Center/CreativityCenter_ProjectSheets_Dia
Only, how wide do I cut my strips so that when sew them together, cut them and strip sew them back together, I end up with each diamond being 6" high and 3" across? Also, at what angle do I cut them?  I do not have a angle cut ruler. Thanks again.

Answer
The strips are cut at 45-degrees, so exactly 6" x 3" finished diamonds are not possible.

However, by cutting 3" strips of fabric, you will get a finished diamond which is 6 3/4" x 2 5/8" which is probably within the range you want.



Connie Hester