Flying geese can be a tricky quilt block. They are quite a few different ways to make them too! Let me show you a few tricks with 2 pieces of fabric.
While stitching up this quilt with a whole bunch of stars, my mom had called to tell me of a way to do flying geese.
I gave it a try, because– I didn’t like doing the math of the other one and I really am ok with exploring new ways of doing things.
So. I did it.
Now, it does waste a little edge of fabric….however. I felt like the geese were easier to make, easier to square up and they turned out nicer than the other ways I had tried before.
And– the math is easy.
Flying Geese With 2 Pieces Of Fabric
Why Use The Flying Geese Method?
- Advantages of This Method Compared to Other Techniques
Using two pieces of fabric for flying geese blocks simplifies the process and reduces fabric waste. Unlike traditional methods that may require multiple fabric pieces and complex piecing, this approach streamlines the creation of flying geese blocks, making it easier to achieve precise results with less effort. - Efficiency and Simplicity of the Two-Piece Approach
The two-piece method is both efficient and straightforward. It simplifies cutting and sewing by using fewer fabric pieces, which speeds up the process and minimizes the chance for errors. This approach is ideal for quilters looking for a quick and effective way to make flying geese blocks without compromising on quality.
Here’s the math part:
1–Take the UNFINISHED size of your flying geese (the longer measurement) and ADD 1″
Cut your background color this measurement
2– ADD 1 1 /2” to the measurement you just cut in step one.
Cut your points color this measurement
Example:
say you want a flying geese to be UNFINISHED: 3 1/2″ X 6 1/2″
1– ADD 1″ to 6 1/2″ = 7 1/2″
2– ADD 1 1/2″ to 7 1/2″ = 9″
Simple.
Done.
Ready to sew.
The process is fairly simple– but there is one part that is a bit tricky. If you are sewing along with the Summer Solar Eclipse Quilt Along though, you’ll have this down by the end and you’ll be able to do it any time for any flying geese!
If you aren’t loving this way of making them, you are more than welcome to try another way. Use your favorite method. No one is bossy around here and you are free to do as you wish. Just make sure your flying geese units are the correct measurement for their blocks.
Mistakes To Avoid & How To Fix Them
Inconsistent Seam Allowances: Using varying seam allowances can cause blocks to be misaligned or not fit together properly.
Use a seam guide or ruler to maintain a consistent seam allowance throughout the project.
Improper Pressing: Not pressing seams correctly can lead to puckering and distorted blocks.
Press seams carefully and consistently. Use a pressing cloth and steam to avoid distortion and puckering.
Misalignment of Fabric Pieces: Incorrectly positioning fabric pieces during sewing can result in wonky or uneven flying geese blocks.
Align fabric pieces accurately before sewing. Pin or clip pieces together to ensure they stay in place during stitching.
Flying geese units~ 4 flying geese, 2 pieces of fabric
1- Lay right sides together, 9″ and 7 1/2″ square– the smaller square will be on top and centered to the larger square
2- Draw a line from corner to corner on the wrong side of the smaller square
3- Sew on both sides of the line 1/4″ seam
4- Cut on the drawn line and iron
5- Place the squares -right sides facing- the lights will be opposite. It looks a little weird.
*you are lining up the outside edges. DO NOT line up the center seam
6- Draw a line from corner to corner on the wrong side– your line will cross the center seam
7- Sew on both sides of the line 1/4″ seam
8- Cut on the drawn line and iron
9- The first cut will be 1/4″ past the point of the flying geese- then use this line to trim the opposite side.
10- Trim up your flying geese units to 3 1/2″ X 6 1/2″
Repeat with other 9″ and 7 1/2″ squares
—this tutorial is helpful for the Summer Solar Eclipse Quilt Along
Additional Resources
- Skinny Flying Geese Quilt Block Video Tutorial
- Flying Geese Ruler and How to Use it
- Busy Body Medallion Quilt Along – flying geese border
- How to Sew 4 Flying Geese at Once
Looking for more videos? Check them out here
FAQ’S
What is the advantage of using 2 pieces of fabric for flying geese?
Using 2 pieces of fabric simplifies the process and reduces fabric waste. It makes cutting and sewing easier and faster compared to traditional methods that require multiple pieces.
How do I ensure accurate cutting and stitching with this method?
To ensure accuracy, use a rotary cutter, quilting ruler, and cutting mat for precise measurements. Align your fabric pieces carefully and sew with a consistent seam allowance to avoid misalignment.
What should I do if my flying geese blocks are not aligning properly?
If blocks are misaligned, check your seam allowances and ensure they are consistent throughout. Press seams carefully and consider using a design wall or layout guide to verify placement before sewing.
How can I fix issues with fabric bunching or puckering?
To prevent puckering, make sure to press seams flat after sewing and use a stitch length that suits your fabric type. If puckering occurs, gently steam the area to smooth it out, or try a pressing cloth to protect the fabric.
Can I use this method for larger flying geese blocks or other quilt designs?
Yes, the two-piece method can be adapted for larger flying geese blocks and various quilt designs. Adjust your fabric sizes and cutting instructions accordingly, and apply the same techniques to maintain accuracy.
Becky Jorgensen is the creative quilter behind Patchwork Posse, the Patchwork Planner and her online quilt group Patchworkers Plus. You can find her patterns in books, magazines, and her quilt membership. Gather your quilting supplies, organize your sewing space, explore the process of disappearing quilt blocks, or finish a free quilt pattern. I'll help you use what you have, finish what you start and make your quilting journey fun!
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I’ve never seen this technique before. I’ll try it! In “the math part”, you might want to clarify that you will be cutting a square that measures 7″ square and a square that measures 9 1/2″ square. That wasn’t clear to me until I read the next section.
The beauty of this video is one can make any size imaginable geese block. Thanks for the video that clearly shows this technique. In the final step, special rulers are available to square-up the common-size geese.
Add 1 1/2″ to 7″ does not equal 9 1/2. It equals 8 1/2.
thank you Carol for catching that! I had the incorrect starting measurement off- the unfinished flying geese was 6 1/2″ so then the measurements that followed did work.
It’s all been updated. Thanks again for your input.
NO WASTE FLYING GEESE..RULE: twice at long as they are wide. In your example 6 1/2 x 3 1/2 needs to be 7 X 3 1/2 and then NO waste. Then add 1/2 inch to each. example 7 1/2 for large square and then 4″” for small squares. Then small squares line up with points slightly crossing each other. Draw line from tip to tip and sew 1/4 on each side. Cut and do same for cut pieces.