I want to make a patchwork peasant blouse for Lauren like this one:

http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=1256509&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1294181&bmUID=1045009085392&productSizeSelected=0

I found a similar pattern, can anyone offer me patchwork tips? I assume I cut little squares (maybe 4" each?) and sew them together to essentially make a new length of fabric? Do I patch it together as a one square wide long strip, then sew the long strips together? Help! Don't worry about sounding like you're explaining to a small child, that's exactly what I need. TIA

Jayme

That is exactly how you do it. :) Cut whatever size squares you want then sew them into strips and sew strips together to make a big piece of fabric them cut out your peices just like you would on a solid fabric!

Have fun!

Here's a tip for sewing the strips together. For each strip, press all the seam allowances in one direction. When you sew two strips together, have the seam allowances going in opposite directions. As you sew, you can easily line up the edges of the squares so when you are done, you have nice perfect points. I hope that made sense!

If you need a visual, I would be happy to take pics tomorrow.

What a GREAT idea!!

That shirt would look good in chambray and the flower patches, too. Instead of the gingham. Hmm, maybe I'll do one in chambray and applique some patches on...

Instead of cutting, say, 100 4" squares, instead cut your fabric into 4" strips, the entire length. Sew the strips together longways. I sew as many together as fabrics I have. Then, you cut these pieces the "other way" so you now have your patchy strips, Instead of cutting, say, 100 4" squares, instead cut your fabric into 4" strips, the entire length. Sew the strips together longways. I sew as many together as fabrics I have. Then, you cut these pieces the "other way" so you now have your patchy strips,

Hey Michele, you just saved my patchy toy room curtains :D
I wanted to make a patchwork curtains to cover the toy shelves, but just the thought of cutting all the squares with scissors (ya, ya, I don’t have a rotary cutter :( ) kept me from starting.
I think I’ll start today!

VERY cute shirt! You better take pics to show when you are done!