SEMINOLE PATCHWORKHi!

I’d like to begin by confessing, that this is more of an LAL (a learn along) in the guise of a QAL, and I’m banking on your generous spirit to put up with any slip ups/errors that may have crept in, despite my best intentions! I’ve tried to be as clear as possible, as far as the technique is concerned, but do let me know if further clarity is needed.

In Seminole Patchwork, fabric is first sewn into strip sets. Then one of two methods is used - In the first method, the strip set is cut straight across the width into smaller strips which are then staggered and sewn back together. In the second method the strip set is cut at an angle into smaller strips which are then sewn together. Both result in very interesting and complicated looking patterns. All of this may not make much sense right now, but I assure you, it will, by and by

Ideally solids or fabric with small prints is suitable for Seminole patchwork, as the patchwork itself is quite intricate.

For this QAL, I made a patchwork panel 16’’x 16’’to be used for a cushion cover. By altering the length, width, and number of strips in the strip set, you can alter the size of the finished patchwork panel to suit your needs. Seminole patchwork lends itself beautifully to a whole range of articles, such as place mats, pot holders, tote bags, as borders in pillow shams, skirts, even childrens’ clothing, apart from the more obvious -cushion covers, table toppers and quilts.

PART 1

We will begin with one of the simplest techniques, which you will also find very enjoyable. Start with three strips of fabric, A (aqua), B (peach?) and C (yellow), B being the centre strip.

Length of all strips – 36’’

Width of A and C – 2.25’’

Width of B – 2’’

Prepare the strip set by sewing the three strips together, taking care that the seam width is maintained throughout the length of the seam. Press seams away from the centre strip, toward the side strips.

Now cut the strip set across the width, into segments, at 2’’ intervals just so –

Next stagger and sew the segments in such a way that the top seam of the peach strip in the second segment, nests with the lower seam of the peach strip in the first segment, as it is in the image.

The segments can also be arranged this way –

Sew the segments in pairs by chain piecing, for convenience, then sew the pairs together, to complete the panel –

Now, discrepancies in seam width and consistency can cause some some amount of wonkiness, but don’t worry too much. Trim the edges to within a quarter of an inch from the points of the peach squares.

Cut the panel in two parts across the width right in the middle, so you have two panels of equal length now.

Attach strips of fabric, (1.25’’ wide), of a complimentary color on either side of each panel for a finished look. However do read to the end of part 2 of the QAL before cutting fabric for the border strips!

End of Part 1