Flying Geese blocks give me fits. Single FG blocks come out perfect almost every time if I I sew just to the right of the diagonal line (see single FG in upper left corner of photo). The folded corner ruler also works – it’s just that I’m more consistent with the drawn line method. Regardless, there’s a lot of extra fabric wasted – especially with large FG blocks.
I was on a mission to try the no-waste 4 at a time “heart” method FG with/without a specialty ruler and the strip cutting method used with the specialty triangle ruler from Bonnie Hunter.
4 at a time “heart” method FG definitely works! My best advice is to start with the “modern” (larger) cut square sizes and sew using a full 1/4″ seam. You don’t *need* a FG trim ruler, but it helps. I tried a Wing Clipper I ruler from Deb Tucker/Studio 180 designs. Easy-Peasy. The individual geese all had a true 1/4″ seam left above the point once trimmed. All I had to do was sew the units together with a scant 1/4″ seam. (See trio of FG in upper right of photo.)
The ability to use strips to cut my FG blocks and minimize waste really, really appealed to me. However, I could not for the life of me get the hang of how to sew the blocks together so that they consistently came out (1) the correct size and (2) had a true 1/4″ seam left above the point. I watched several different videos and spent way too much time trying to figure out this method. The yellow/navy batik FG block is the result of this experiment. I had to sew the FG together using a 1/8″ seam allowance across the points. Not my preference. Several of my quilting friends swear by the Bonnie Hunter ruler for making FG, so perhaps I’ll try it again someday.
My recommendation: if you have to make a ton of FG, do the 4 at a time “heart” method starting with oversize squares and invest in a specialty ruler to trim them. Companies such as Creative Grids, Studio 180 Designs and Bloc Loc offer specialty FG rulers. A single, multiple size FG trim ruler is usually about $30.00 while the product from Bloc Loc has a different pricing structure. Check with your local quilt shop (or quilting friends) to see if you can try out the various rulers.
As an alternative, use FG papers available from Fat Quarter Shop.
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