How to Sew a Basic Snowball Block
The Snowball Block is another simple block that can be used in making other blocks and it also makes a good alternating block in a quilt.
Fabric Requirements:
You will need a center square and four smaller squares. In my sample, I used a 5″ square and four 2″ squares – which will make a finished block of 4.5″ square that is a really hard size to use in a quilt (I didn’t think this through before cutting!). Another good size would be a 6.5" large square and four 2.5" squares for the corners.
Sewing Directions:
Step 1:
Mark a diagonal line on the back of the four small squares. I’m using a chalk pencil to mark on the dark fabric. I like General’s Pastel Chalk pencil and it’s made in the U.S. – even better!
Step 2:
Place one of the small squares in the corner of the large square, right sides together, with the diagonal line positioned as shown. Stitch close to the diagonal line in what will be the seam allowance just like we did for the Flying Geese block. Repeat with the remaining corners.
Step 3:
Match up the corners of the small square and press. Trim off the extra seam allowance fabric. When doing the pressing first and then cutting the excess fabric off, you shouldn’t have to square up your block.
Here you can see what it looks like on the back. The upper right corner has been unfolded and the seam allowance trimmed. The lower right corner has been folded back in place.
This is the same step as above, just a front view.
Here is what the block looks like after it is all trimmed up.
Layout Ideas:
This is the basic 4 x 4 layout using colors similar to the tutorial. Not very exciting.
And here's the same layout as above but with narrow (1") sashing and cornerstones added.
This is an example of what a scrappy layout could look like. Adding in some applique or embroidery would liven it up more.
This is an alternating design using a simple chain block for the alternate block.
This is another alternating design where the Snowball block is used for the alternating block to accentuate the main block.
Conclusion:
The Snowball block is super easy to make and while it may not be used a whole lot on its own, it works really well as an alternating block. Additionally, the technique is used in lots of blocks that have irregular shapes.
Happy Quilting!
Elaine
P.S. Check out all the basic quilting blocks at: https://fabric406.com/blogs/fabric406-blog/tagged/basic-blocks-tutorials
P.P.S. Check out my Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/fabric406