Easy and Accurate Dresden design - No paper piecing required!
Great die - perfect cuts every time! You will be very happy with the results of this die!! The beauty of it is that it cuts two tiny notches on either side of the petal where the curve begins to use a sewing guide. And here is the fun part: Other than making a circle for the middle, no paper piecing is required! To create one Dresden plate - cut 12 petals from various colored fabrics (looks especially nice with 1930's reproduction fabrics). Then use 12 3 1/2" x 2 1/2" muslin pieces and cut out just the curve with notches. Line up a muslin cutout to the right side of a fabric petal, matching the notches. Carefully sew the curve from notch to notch using a 1/4" seam allowance. If you are new to sewing curves, you may need to practice on a few to master a smooth, flowing curve. Clip the curve, being careful not to clip the seam threads. Trim the curve seam allowance to 1/8" if desired for less bulk. Turn right side out and use a point turner to create a perfect curve. Press the curve. Do this for rest of petals. Then sew together by placing two petals right sides together and sew down one side from just above the notch to the bottom of the petal. When all are sewn into a circle, press seam allowances open to reduce bulk. For the center, cut a four inch circle of fabric and use a regular paper piecing method to achieve a turned under circle. Applique to center. Applique entire plate to desired background square and sew squares together, with or without strips in between.