Steps to Make an Appliqued Dresden Plate Quilt Block
Dresden Plate quilt blocks are one of the most popular quilt patterns and are easily recognizable by the overlapping petal shapes and scalloped edges. Traditionally, Dresden Plate quilt blocks are constructed from many fabric pieces, but they can also be appliqued. Making an appliqued Dresden Plate quilt block is a great way to create a stunning quilt block in a fraction of the time. With the right techniques and materials, it is easy to make a beautiful Dresden Plate quilt block.
Things You’ll Need:
To make an appliqued Dresden Plate quilt block, you will need the following supplies:
- Fabric for the background, center and petals
- Paper-backed fusible web
- Lightweight tear-away stabilizer
- Scissors and rotary cutter
- Iron and pressing surface
- Thread and sewing machine
Creating the Dresden Plate Template
The first step in making an appliqued Dresden Plate quilt block is to create the paper template. This template will be used to cut the fabric pieces for the quilt block. To make the template, trace a circle onto a piece of cardstock or lightweight cardboard. The size of the circle will determine the size of the finished quilt block. After tracing the circle, use a ruler and marker to draw lines radiating from the center of the circle. The lines should be evenly spaced and extend beyond the edge of the circle. Cut out the template using scissors or a craft knife.
Cutting the Fabric Pieces
Once the template is cut, use it to trace and cut the fabric pieces. For an appliqued Dresden Plate quilt block, you will need a center piece, background fabric and fabric for the petals. To cut the petal shapes, trace the template onto the wrong side of the fabric, then cut out the petals with scissors or a rotary cutter. Cut the background and center pieces to size. If desired, fuse a piece of paper-backed fusible web to the wrong side of the petal shapes.
Layering the Pieces
After cutting the fabric pieces, layer them with the background on the bottom, the center piece in the middle, and the petal shapes on top. If using fusible web, place the petal shapes so that the web side is facing down. Place a piece of lightweight tear-away stabilizer between the layers and baste around the edges with a few stitches.
Sewing the Pieces Together
Using a zigzag stitch, stitch around the edges of the Dresden Plate quilt block. If using fusible web, iron the petal shapes in place before stitching. When finished, remove the stabilizer, trim the edges of the quilt block, and press with an iron. The appliqued Dresden Plate quilt block is now ready to be used in a quilt or other project.
Tips
- Experiment with different fabrics to create interesting effects.
- Use an embroidery stitch to add a decorative touch.
- For a more traditional look, use a running stitch to applique the pieces.
