Y
Yvonne Busdeker
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- Thread Author
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Designer: Erin Kroeker
Website: www.theblanketstatement.ca
Instagram: @theblanketstatement
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Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Finished Size: 18” x 18”
At first glance, the Drunkard’s Path block may look tricky, but the design possibilities are truly endless, all starting with one simple shape: the quarter circle. From bold, modern layouts to soft, flowing arrangements, this classic curved block has inspired countless quilts. In this tutorial, we’ll focus on creating a flower or sun-shaped Drunkard’s Path block as a foundation you can build from.
We’ll be making an 18" finished Drunkard’s Path block, which is larger than some quilt blocks, and that’s for two reasons. First, it’s designed to work within a series of blocks that will eventually come together into a sampler-style quilt. Second, when learning curved piecing, starting with slightly larger curves makes the process more approachable, before working up (or down!) to smaller curves.
Tools:
OLFA 24” x 36” Self-Healing Rotary Mat
OLFA 45mm Ergonomic Rotary Cutter
OLFA 45mm Endurance Blades
OLFA Rotary Circle Cutter CMP-3 and 18mm Blade
OLFA 6 ½” x 6 ½” Frosted Acrylic Ruler
Fabric & Supplies:
1/3 Yard Fabric A* (Natural)
1/2 Yard Fabric B* (Black)
Thread
Sewing Machine
Iron and Ironing Board
Pins
Marking Pen
*This block creates a lot of curved scraps, have some fun, get creative, and see what else you can come up with!
Step 1: Cut Fabric
From fabric A:
· (12) 5” x 5" squares
From Fabric B:
· (12) 5.5” x 5.5” squares
· (4) 5” x 5” squares
TIP! Check out this blog post for an in-depth tutorial on how to cut and sew quarter circles.
Step 2: Make the Quarter Circles
On all 5” x 5” Fabric A squares, mark a pivot point for the circle cutter ½" in from both sides on one corner of each square.
Set your circle cutter to 4 ¼" using the top set of markings. Place the pivot point directly on your marking, firmly hold the ratchet handle and cut your quarter circle in a clockwise direction.
Repeat for all (12) Fabric A squares to create the convex pieces.
On all 5.5” x 5.5” Fabric B squares, mark a pivot point for the circle cutter ½" in from both sides on one corner of each square.
TIP! Do not cut the 5” Fabric B squares. These will be used for the corners of the block.
Set your circle cutter to 3 ¾" and cut in the same way.
Repeat for all (12) Fabric B squares to create the concave pieces.
Mark the centre point on each curved piece by folding in half diagonally and pressing.
With RST, align the centre markings and pin in place as shown.
TIP! If you’re new to quarter circles, you can add extra markings and pins as shown in this blog post!
Using a ¼" seam allowance and a small stitch length, sew the two pieces together.
First, press the seam to set it. Then press the seam allowance toward the outside, concave curve.
Repeat steps for all (12) quarter circles.
To trim the quarter circle, start with the convex piece in the upper right. Place your ruler so the 4 ¼" marking aligns with the seam at the both the top and right side. Trim off excess from top and side.
Rotate the quarter circle so the concave piece is in the upper right. Place your ruler so the 5" marking aligns the bottom and left side. Trim away excess.
Step 3: Sew the Block
Arrange the quarter circles and remaining 5” Fabric B squares into the block layout.
Sew together one row at a time, taking care to pin and match seams. Press as you go.
Sew the rows together and give the block a good press.
Measure your completed block and if needed, trim to 18.5” x 18.5”, ensuring all sides are straight and corners are square!
Now give yourself a pat on the back... you did it!
