Flying Geese: Exploring Classic Quilting Techniques - Part 2
Welcome back to the second part of our blog series on classic quilting techniques. In Part 1, we explored the versatile world of Half Square Triangles (HSTs). Now, in Part 2, we will dive into the art of creating Flying Geese using Eleanor Burns' foolproof method. Let's soar through the steps and discover the beauty of this timeless quilting technique.
The back of my Many Flying Geese Quilt (Copyright, Angela Finn. 2019.)
Part 2: Flying Geese - Eleanor Burns' Foolproof Method
Flying Geese units are triangular quilt blocks that resemble a flock of geese in flight, hence their name. They consist of one large triangle (the "goose") and two smaller triangles (the "sky"). These units are often used in borders, sashing, or as standalone design elements within a quilt.
Eleanor Burns' Foolproof Method: Eleanor Burns, a celebrated quilting author and educator, has developed a straightforward and efficient method for creating Flying Geese units. Follow these steps to achieve accurate and consistent results:
a.Determine the desired finished size of your Flying Geese unit.
b. Cut one large rectangle for the "goose" and four smaller squares for the "sky." The dimensions will depend on the size of the finished unit, as specified in Eleanor Burns' method.
c. On the wrong side of the four small squares, draw a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner.
d. Place two small squares on opposite corners of the large rectangle, right sides together, aligning the drawn diagonal lines with the edges of the rectangle.
e. Sew a quarter-inch seam on both sides of the drawn lines.
f. Cut along the drawn lines to separate the unit into three pieces.
g. Press the seam allowances toward the small squares, creating a Flying Geese unit.
h. Repeat the process with the remaining small squares on the opposite corners of the large rectangle.
i. Trim the Flying Geese units to their precise measurements, ensuring uniformity and easy piecing.
Flying Geese units offer incredible design possibilities. They can be arranged in different orientations, colors, and scales to create striking patterns such as chevrons, arrows, zigzags, or even the appearance of flying geese across your quilt top. Combine Flying Geese with other quilt blocks to enhance visual interest and add movement to your designs.
Eleanor Burns' foolproof method for creating Flying Geese units simplifies the process and guarantees accurate results. Whether you're incorporating Flying Geese in borders, sashing, or as standalone design elements, this classic quilting technique adds a touch of elegance and movement to your projects. Embrace the versatility of Flying Geese and explore the myriad of design possibilities they offer.
By mastering both Half Square Triangles and Flying Geese, you have unlocked the potential to create intricate and captivating quilt patterns. These classic techniques form the building blocks of many quilts, allowing you to express your creativity and bring your quilting visions to life. Happy quilting!
