Crumb Block Series Episode #1

[@rsislandcrafts]

Got scraps? Join me and make crumb blocks from your scraps. In this series I will walk you through my process but you can make them any way you wish.

[@cynforrest]

Another sleepless night. 😢. Old n older-age is setting in. Idea: Binge Watch all of Robin’s Crumb Block videos!! Love crumbs n strings. Anything goes. Color me Happy - even if wide awake. 😂

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m sorry you’re not sleeping but I’m happy to keep you company.

[@teresabaez6925]

Hola ,no es la vejez, es falta de melatonlna, si tomas una h antes de acostarte y haces respiración lenta te aseguro que duermes como un bebé 🙂🤗

[@feliciabriand4190]

I've never heard " crumb blocks". But this an awesome idea for me now. I'd love to save my scraps and make crumb blocks and hopefully someday a quilt ❤️

[@rsislandcrafts]

They are very addictive and fun to sew.

[@Marialla.]

Using little bits of bobbin thread for a crumb block is genius! Always looking for ways to use that up, because it feels so wrong to waste it but they aren't good for big projects. Another thought I've had recently is to use those bitty bobbins as spools to include in practice sewing kits that I share with friends or students who show interest in my craft. I put together a small ziploc bag filled with just enough supplies for someone to test out whether or not they enjoy learning the craft. I'll include a homemade leather thimble, a couple needles, enough fabric (scraps) to make one very small project (like, the size of a coaster), a blob of silicone putty, and now I know I can also throw in one of those mostly used-up thread bobbins! It doesn't matter if the thread shows on a learning project. In fact, it might be better all around if it does, so they can see what they are doing. I'll use an old prescription bottle to hold the needles, thimble, putty (stuck inside the lid), and thread. A project might be something like making two hexie flowers, with batting between, to make a reversible coaster. Or maybe using glued popsicle sticks and binder clips to make a tiny embroidery frame, to sew a patch or a doll pillow. The point is to make something very portable and convenient to try, without over-investing in supplies too soon. This way I can help spread interest in hand crafts. And if they don't like the craft, they still have a useful repair kit to keep for emergencies!

[@rsislandcrafts]

I think that’s a very good idea. Passing the craft along to others. Sewing machines can be Intimidating to some. It’s a great idea for kids too. I’ve taught several kids to hand sew little stuffies and they’ve all seemed to enjoy It. I’ve made so many crumb blocks and string blocks that I’m almost out of “old” thread. I bought a large cone of white thread on sale that I use for the top thread and change out the bobbin as needed. I can sew for miles without changing the top thread.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I would die for your “crumbs”

[@rsislandcrafts]

99% of these scraps have been sewn up into different projects or sold in my Etsy shop. I like rotating my scraps so that there’s always new scraps to play with.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I love your blocks!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you.

[@quiltgram3056]

I love the idea of using my Coats thread and the colors I seldom use_to use then to sew scrap quilts. Great idea as now I almost exclusively use Aurifil thread for piecing and quilts.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I think many of us have changed thread brands over the years and have wondered what to do with the old threads. Crumb blocks use a ton of thread so they’re a perfect solution. Happy sewing!!

[@gbyrd1970]

I plan to make a crumb quilt one day. I'm just working on my very first quilt at the moment. Trying to figure out my sewing machine and it's getting really frustrating!! Lol

[@rsislandcrafts]

Welcome to the quilting world!! Yes, sewing machines can be a bit of trial and error. Even an experienced quilter finds a learning curve when they switch to a new machine. Crumb blocks are forgiving and make nice practice pieces while figuring things out.

[@gbyrd1970]

@@rsislandcrafts I'll get it figured out if it kills me! Right now I'm just practicing while I try to round up fabric for my stash. Good luck on your next one!

[@razzmatazz1974]

i have scraps of fabric from different project, some i have inherited from my grandma and aunts, even some from primary school projects back in the 80s! im trying to reduce my stash so im using your tutorial to make different things from them, made 2 baskets and im making crumb blocks for future charity fundraisers! thanks for the videos

[@rsislandcrafts]

That’s awesome. I love creating fabric from scraps and then turning It Into bags, baskets, curtains, etc. they become great memory keepers. I’ll randomly see a fabric and then remember the story behind It.

[@janetpatterson9593]

I LOVE, LOVE the idea of using up thread "scraps" for stitching up crumb blocks. I will implement that into my quilting!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Hi Janet! Crumb blocks use lots of thread. For me, the thread isn't really visible in the blocks so why not use up some leftovers and there's always leftover thread. Happy quilting!!

[@sandraheavey9956]

Watching your tutorials are so addictive Robin 😃😃 I am loving every minute of them only thing is I am loving them so much...

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you Sandra! Yes, you have to be careful because the more tutorials you watch the more projects you’ll want to make 😉

[@sandraheavey9956]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin exactly! Not that I'm complaining mind...the more the merrier. Working on some scrappy blocks now.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Sandra Heavey Exactly! I’ve been trimming scraps in preparation for my next scrappy tutorial series 😉

[@sandraheavey9956]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin Cool! looking forward to watching them 👍👍

[@mamakaka73]

I love applique with those

[@rsislandcrafts]

Crumbs add so much depth to an appliqué project.

[@mistyspinner8745]

Wow i have watched a lot of crumb quilt and yours are so neatly and lot the same size. Love yours great job thanks for showing us

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much 💗

[@helenoreillylong9497]

Your comment about “as long as your quilt doesn’t fall apart in the wash” made me wonder….once the blocks are sewn together, would it be a good idea to wash the top before putting on batting and backing? That way any fall apart could be repaired.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Most times we don’t wash the quilt flimsy or quilt top. Have you ever washed your fabric yardage after buying It? It frays like crazy. If you were to machine wash your quilt top It would fray and possibly fall apart. Your seam allowance would fray to most nothing. I have gently hand washed a quilt top once or twice but that isn’t something I normally recommend. I have had seems pop on a finished quilt after It was washed. A popped seam can be repaired or an appliqué can be sewn on top. When I say that I’m generally joking. Just to ease the stress a bit. Many mistakes or problems can be fixed. When I say fall apart it’s more like if every single seam fails and you have a washer full of little scraps. I hope that helps.

[@helenoreillylong9497]

@@rsislandcrafts yes that helps. Thanks Robin for the great info. I am finally starting to buy fat quarters etc to build a stash with which I can make string and a crumb quilts. Exciting!

[@Cyrilmc222004]

Thank you so much Robin, that’s really really helpful and useful. I will be watching the other videos that you’ve made. xxx Mags

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you!

[@beverleysimmons8080]

Very nice you have a lot done colourful i like small pieces sometimes when i starts i gets overwhelmed by all the small pieces of material i have so now i closes my eyes crab a piece lol whatever way it works hey foggy old day damp rain good day to be home

[@rsislandcrafts]

Beverley Simmons Yes, it’s easier if you just grab a piece and sew. These blocks can be hard for people that like everything a certain way but it’s a good exercise in letting all that go. Fog and rain beats snow and ice right?

[@lizbee726]

I do have a lot of scraps but don't think I have a big enough variety of fabrics to make these blocks from. I'm not a patchwork quilter. I think I'll have to ask quilters I know for some of their scraps. 😂😂. But I love your vid thanks for ideas. 💕

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you. If you mention that you’re interested in making some crumb blocks you might be able to help them out by clearing out some of their smaller scraps. Not all quilters save fabric less than 5” or 10” or random strips from trimming quilts. I’ve heard from several people that when they go to retreats or classes they even go through the fabric filled trash cans 😂. Some quilters toss out larger pieces than you might think. A few of the bigger quilters don’t save anything smaller than a fat quarter 😱. They just don’t have the time.

[@jodieroundtree488]

Thanks Robin. Good ideas about the left over bobbin thread!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Jodie Roundtree Thank you! Some people don’t like stopping all the time but It doesn’t bother me.

[@jodieroundtree488]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin I think it will be easier than winding a whole new one plus the little bits feel wasteful. Great idea. Thanks again.

[@annainspain5176]

Jodie, it took me a bit to realise that with crumbs, thread colour doesn't matter! I have a lot of different colours of thread a friend gave me when she moved, so it's all going to get used.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Anna Inspain Exactly! My crumbs are colorful and so are the threads holding them together. I bought 100 bobbins awhile ago and when friends give me thread (that’s not old and possibly weak) I wind a bunch of bobbins. Then I’m always ready to sew some scraps even if only for 15 minutes or so.

[@lesleygilbert1945]

Can't wait for you to get started - I was hoping it would have been today :)

[@rsislandcrafts]

Lesley Gilbert You’ll be even happier because 🤞 there will be a video tomorrow too.

[@chickad5820]

Awesome video, hope you stay soon. I want to see your method and get tips from you as you go.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you! If everything goes the way I plan then you will see a new crumb video today and Saturday and maybe Sunday but nothing is set in stone yet.

[@jenniferfarsh675]

This looks like fun! I would love to hear more about your favorite threads. I use Aurifil a lot but would like to try connecting threads.

[@rsislandcrafts]

My machine and I both love the Essential threads from Connecting Threads. They also have nice fabric at a really good price. I believe the majority if not all of their fabrics are $5.99 a yard or less. I love getting charm packs from them but you need to pay attention to how many charms are in each pack because it can vary. Connecting Threads also has polyester threads if you prefer those. I buy the Salt & Pepper pack which is a white, a black, and 3 shades of grey and I use those for most of my piecing. the other colors you may have seen are for quilting. I love using lots of color with my quilts. My machine is not a fan of Aurifil thread but I have been using it for some hand quilting and it's been nice. I tried it for EPP hexies and it kept fraying and breaking but I haven't tried it with beeswax yet.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I also like the the Essential threads are 1,200 yards on the spool and they are only $2.79 but there's always sales several times a year.

[@peterpiper5300]

have you tried using the zigzag stitch to piece together the scraps to avoid sewing right sides together then unfold then iron to flatten? (i hope you get what im trying to say.)

[@rsislandcrafts]

I understand what you mean. You could. It might not be sturdy enough for a quilt. With use the seams could spread apart. I don’t think It would be practical for a quilt but It could be used in other smaller projects.

[@ellenpearce6885]

What size block are you making? You have lots of different scraps. Your idea about the little pieces making it difficult to quilt is a good point.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Ellen Pearce I like mine to be 6.5”. Some people prefer 9.5”. It’s completely up to you and the look you like. I started sewing kids clothes, jammies, and purses and then switched to quilts. I also joined several I Spy fabric swaps a few years ago so most of my stash is novelty type fabric.

[@ellenpearce6885]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin I have a lot of p j scraps, jumpers and I spy, too.🤗

[@rsislandcrafts]

Ellen Pearce Then you understand my colorful fabrics 😀

[@Squatchygal]

I envision making a touchy feely quilt using different textures.

[@rsislandcrafts]

That would be fun.

[@alisonjanvrin5448]

Typically what type of thread do you use? I’m cheap and use Coats & Clark thread. It’s what my mother and grandmothers always used and they didn’t die using it. Just like we are a Singer family. I love all 4 of my Singer machines. Only thing is, I wish they made bigger spools of thread.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Alison Janvrin I started using Coats & Clark thread and I like It but then I started using Essentials thread from Connecting Threads. There’s 1,200 yards on the spools I buy and the colors are beautiful. It’s 100% cotton thread. It doesn’t produce lint in my machine like some threads do. It’s $2.49 a spool but they run sales often. Hope that helps!

[@alisonjanvrin5448]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin I was using the 100% cotton thread and over night my machine decided it did not like it anymore and I can’t use it. I loved using it, the spool lasted a lot longer. Just can’t figure out what went wrong. I tried everything I knew and had been taught.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Alison Janvrin Connecting Threads also has a polyester line of threads. Some machines are finicky. It might not be you but the thread company may have slightly changed something (or not) in their threads. I have heard of machines just disliking a thread that’s been used for years so at least you’re not crazy 😂. Thank goodness there’s a variety of threads out there to choose from.

[@alisonjanvrin5448]

RsIslandCrafts - Robin Thank you Robin! It’s funny, the same thread was in the machine. I was ready to take it in to be serviced when I realized it just didn’t like the thread. Funny thing is, the thread I’m using, my machine wouldn’t use it when I first got the machine. It’s weird but as long as it’s ok, I’m ok with using the cheaper thread. Plus I can run to the end of the street instead of ordering it and waiting. Oh also, it won’t use universal needles now either. But Singer needles work fine. Finicky!!! But, I love my Singer!! 💜

[@rsislandcrafts]

The things we do for our machines. They sure can be finicky. I say as long as the thread works than go with it. I am definitely not a thread snob. Bonus for not having to wait a few days for it to arrive in the mail.

[@annainspain5176]

Easy way to deal with bulk at the back is to use the hidden tie. Not all quilts have to be machine-quilted. I personally love handquilting. That's why I make quilts.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Anna Inspain I’ve recently started hand quilting some projects. I enjoy the process of handwork. I’ll have to look up the hidden tie. I have 3 T-shirt quilts with some difficult backings that I prefer not to machine quilt. Thanks!

[@rosamunda4713]

When I was looking at crumb block videos a while ago I couldn't do it. They were using very small pieces and cutting them all crazy angles "for fun'. They made me nuts. I have done much better using strips of a visible size. Hadn't really considered the amount of seam allowances on the back but I can use that to help myself to not fret about tiny pieces. I like your more recent blocks and that's about what mine look like. IF I could get the top of the cutting table cleaned off it would help. I have more men's shirts in pieces stacked up waiting to be cut into squares and strips. I really like cutting 10 inch squares from the backs of the shirts. Thanks for the info about Connecting Threads actual thread. Looking forward to more of this series. Thanks for sharing.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Rosamunda I’m sure I’ve watched the same videos and like you I’m not a fan of the small pieces. As you saw I tried but I prefer larger scraps. When It comes time to quilt my projects I’ll just have to keep those seams in mind and find some simple ways to quilt them. I watched a video recently where the quilter has these fun Dollar Tree plastic bins with circle cut outs on all sides that she used for her projects. Each bin had the pattern and all the fabric stored inside. With each project in these baskets I could pick a project to work on and put everything back in the basket until I’m ready to work on It again. I’m not a tidy person but I can’t work if there’s extra things on my cutting table that aren’t part of my current project.

[@marlenesmithies7234]

How do you get your blocks to be such lovely accurate squares

[@rsislandcrafts]

In this series I have other videos that show how I square up my blocks. It’s pretty easy with crumb blocks. You just keep adding fabric scraps until it’s a bit larger than the size you need. Then I use my rotary cutter and rulers to cut It to that size.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

How large do you make your blocks?

[@rsislandcrafts]

It varies depending on my project. In this series I believe 6.5”. Earlier this year I was sewing scraps by color and those are 4.5”. I’ve sewn 12.5” crumb blocks to use as HSTs in an old project.

[@chrissyoldfield8566]

Are these sewn to a paper foundation first? Looking forward to your next tutorial❣️👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@rsislandcrafts]

Chrissy Oldfield These are completely freeform. No paper foundation needed because they are totally random. You just grab two fabrics and sew them together and go from there.

[@bevcote2357]

I'm so happy about this series!! I've almost gotten the top quilted with all the crummy flowers. I do know how to post to my Facebook page (Beverly Diane sharples cote) but as soon as my 21 yr old daughter gets back from Florida I'm gonna get her to show me how to post to yours. She spent the last four says in Tampa at a window covering event. She's studying interior design in college and went with her boss and the owner for this annual event. They were kind enough to do a quick drive by to my aunt and uncle's in Lake City on their way back up here to Ohio. Thank you for sharing Robin. Blessings to you and yours.

[@rsislandcrafts]

It's been a highly requested series. I was surprised how many people were interested. Tampa is a big venue for all types of events like that. I am about a 2.5 hour drive south of Tampa depending on who's driving ;) I'm looking forward to seeing your crummy flowers. Please let your daughter know that in my video description box I have links to all my social media including a link to my facebook group. Have a wonderful and crafty weekend!

[@belindasmith8790]

I have a lot of thread. The problem I have is the white cone is cracking apart from the large cones. This happens with even new cones. I stack them on end and alternate the sizes not to smash them together in bins. I try to spin them onto bobbins to save the thread from these cracked cones. I sometimes can save half the cone before it meshes together in a ball of knots. I have even stacked them differently on the sides. They still crack. Even when I put them in individual slots to hold one cone at a time they still crack. I don't leave them uncovered as my place is very dusty. Any ideas? I'm very careful with stacking these bins not to crush the bins or drop them. I still find pieces of cracked cones. Some crack in my hands when I takes them out to use. All these are bought new from Joann. Help any ideas

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m sorry you’re having these problems. I’ve had a few spools from JoAnns that did the same thing. I’m not sure there’s anything you can do. Cones have miles of thread otherwise I would suggest looking on eBay or somewhere for empty thread spools. Then maybe you could wind off the cone and onto the spools. 🤷‍♀️. It’s not much help for what you already own but you might need to find a new place to buy thread in the future.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Are you part of any Facebook quilting groups? Maybe ask there. There’s usually some long time quilters in those groups with lots of knowledge.

[@michelesalazar2045]

do you cut your scraps into different size strips? I have scraps but they are different shapes not just strips

[@rsislandcrafts]

Over time I’ve learned what scraps get used right away and which ones sit around forever. I do not use weirdly shaped scraps. I find I’m a scrap strip user. I have a video where I go over my system here - m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5itm5aOiLB9q9U It’s been a bit since I made this video but I think I’m still using the same system. I cut my scraps into strips - 1.5”, 2”, 2.5”, 3.5”, anything 5” or more. Then if I need some squares I just go to that bin and cut as many scrappy squares as I need. I do allow myself to not cut up my favorite chunks of scraps and leave them as is for future projects or just to hoard 😉. With those strips I can make a variety of blocks including log cabin, crumb blocks, string blocks, 4 patches, and so much more. Happy Scrapping!!

[@charleneferguson9250]

Hello Robin, do u still do these interesting videos?;)

[@rsislandcrafts]

Hi Charlene! I’m still doing videos in general but not the crumb projects at the moment. I’ll be diving back into all forms of scrappy projects after the new year. Thanks!

[@clombard7134]

I'm thinking that I first need to "organize" my scraps. Do you stitch onto paper?

[@rsislandcrafts]

When I make crumb blocks I do not stitch onto paper. Throughout this series I walk you through my process. I also have a video about stitching scraps to adding machine/calculator paper. Those are stitched onto the paper to keep everything lined up neatly. It is easier if your organize your scraps but maybe just enough to make a few blocks 😉. That way making a few blocks is like a reward for organizing your scraps. 🦩

[@clombard7134]

@@rsislandcrafts Thank you Robin! I will binge watch this weekend!

[@rsislandcrafts]

C LOMBARD You’re welcome 🦩

[@mariarocha8240]

muito lindo o seu trabalho!

[@rsislandcrafts]

muito obrigado Thank you so much!

[@sandraheavey9956]

Question: do you only use cotton thread?

[@rsislandcrafts]

I do prefer cotton thread but I’ve use a variety over the years. I like the Essential thread from Connecting Threads.

[@DvotedWife]

I'll join you!

[@rsislandcrafts]

DvotedWife WooHoo!! I think It will be fun seeing everyone’s blocks.

[@DvotedWife]

Me too! That's why I joined your FB group.

[@meegangaffney1979]

What are your go to color names of Essentials thread?

[@rsislandcrafts]

Meegan Gaffney I buy the salt and pepper pack for basic sewing. There are 3 shades of grey, a black ,and a white. I tend to buy that set a few times a year. I bought a large variety pack of basic colors a couple ears ago but they don’t seem to offer that right now. They have small sets of different shades or values so you can choose the one that works best for your color style. You can also just buy their thread one spool at a time. They’re usually only $2.49 a spool and they have 1,200 yards per spool so I feel that that’s a good deal. They also have polyester thread if you prefer that. Hope that helps.

[@nonniepalmer8676]

Little in the center and bigger as you go toward the edges ...

[@rsislandcrafts]

Yes. It does seem to go like that most times.

[@idamartinez1599]

Please

[@crescentcarol]

Thank you for shorter videos.

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@arriettysbags]

I like the idea of tote bags.

[@rsislandcrafts]

arrietty39 If you color coordinate your scraps they would be fun for a tote bag.

[@arriettysbags]

Yes, I'm looking forward to playing. I sell bags at the market, but havne't done tote bags as fabric is really expensive here in NZ, but a tote bag with scraps means I can make one cheaply :)

[@rsislandcrafts]

arrietty39 I’ve heard fabric can be very expensive in some countries. You definitely need to use all your scraps. If bedsheets aren’t too expensive you could use those for the lining and maybe handles and you would have a low cost tote bag.

[@arriettysbags]

I recycle jeans too. Yes, good quality quilting fabric here can be NZD $27-$29 per metre. I have come across some as low as $25 but unless it is on sale, this is what we have to pay. It is cheaper for me to get it shipped from USA, pay the postage and rate of exchange than buy it full price here. But I keep my eye out for sales and make the most of it then :) It hasnt stopped me from developing a good stash :D