Done / Not Done

I am done! ... with phase one. Not including extra pieces and thrown out pieces and ripped out seams, I have cut 2,025 pieces of fabric and sewn 1,736 seams of pieces to be included in the quilt. I have 64 large triple squares plus four in reserve. I have 96 small triple squares plus a large number in reserve because they were absolute hell to sew correctly. I have 144 diamond plus about 20 in reserve.

Now it is time to assemble the blocks. I am / am not looking forward to it. I want to get done and the steps will get progressively easier. OTOH, I know my sewing skills on the individual parts were not what they need to be. Seams wander. Allowances vary. Assembly is not going to be a piece of cake. Getting everything straight and even is going to be a challenge.

Sew, what have I learned to this point?

• Rotary cutting. My cutting technique has improved.
• My sewing has improved and my seams are straighter. 
• My ability to place pieces at the center is better. A pinch fold is all it needs.
• Even 1/32" (0.8 mm) in variance in a cut or fabric placement will throw the seam off by nearly 1/4" as it multiplies its effects when pieces are added.
• After breaking seven needles, I know pins need to be removed as you sew. (Slow learner.)
• A broken thread means the needle needs replacement. (VERY slow learner.)
• Go slow, be careful, and never take your eye off the seam.
• Chaining pieces together is the best way to speed up the process.
• Clean and oil regularly. 30 hours slips by fast.
• Buy enough fabric because you will NEVER match 'Royal' blue in any store at any time.
• Triangles for the second square are cut on the bias and the outer set  needs to be cut with the angle on the bias to make the square stable.
• Diamonds are cut on the bias so the outer triangles can be square with the grain.
• White thread beats blue thread.
• Most of the rumors about Coats & Clark threads are hooey.
• Books show pin heads on the fabric but the flat 'flowers' make great handles for keeping fabric straight if you pin with the heads out in space.
• I now have a pin cushion that stays put when I stick a pin into it or pull one out without looking. I may sell this idea.
• At my age, my eyes need LOTS of light.
• All jobs have an end point.

Now ... On to Assembly!