Making String Blocks out of Scraps.

[@ragdollyally]

I spent today binge watching your channel and I just want to tell you - I’ve been having a tough time with grief after a bereavement, and you have been more comfort and uplifting to me today than I can tell you. Your pure joy in what you do is absolutely tangible and it’s lifted my spirit and seen me inspired and happy today. Thank you for sharing your enjoyment with us, it’s been a lovely afternoon with my headphones on, watching your videos and listening to your cheerful voice, like seeing the first daffodils in Spring 😊

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you for sharing that I have done some good in the world today. I love that and wish you well as you find your new footing through your grief journey!! My husband died 4 years ago and I truly understand that it is a long process to find that "happy place". Determination goes a long way. Best wishes to you.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

So sorry for your loss. May you see beauty and find strength in each new day. Big hug to you. ❤

[@elainearmstrong5145]

Im so sorry for your loss.

[@dorothyawo9086]

It's 4:30 am in Colorado & I frequently look for quilting tutorials. I've watched this one before, but I really enjoyed it more this time . I just made a twin size string quilt & I loved making it. Now that's all I want to do. The next thing I want to do is find a quilt guild to join. I think quilters are pretty happy people. Thanks for sharing. I love your quilt.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you for the sweet note. I wish you the best in finding a group of quilters!

[@marcamp5450]

Maybe inquire at churches near you. Lots of them have quilt guilds but nothing there about a religion. Just good women sewing. ❤

[@mrs7872]

"I just try to make sure that nothing is annoying me" YUP! I loved that and even giggled a bit.

[@marysmith4479]

Me too! 🙂

[@greysandradecollazos3776]

Gracias por compartir sus proyectos son super genial desde Colombiaa bendiciones para todos los días de acuerdo

[@vickyadams3007]

Did I miss the part where you did something to the raw edges, to finish them off ?

[@sharonlauch6813]

Me too.

[@bina64]

Yes! Same here.

[@lillieromero6982]

You're funny! You tell us the truth about why you don't do something: I'm lazy, I like it like that, etc.

[@glayne39]

I have also watched a zillion quilting videos and yours are awesome. I'm a new quilter, not quite a year in. I LOVE it! I'm a 65 year old nana and I love several crafts, but there's not enough time in the day for all of them. At this point, I'm quilting. Your videos have given me a new outlook. No rules quilting! Thanks for your videos, they are the absolute best!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you for your sweet and thoughtful comment!!

[@yvonnehawkins2917]

I’ve been quilting for about five years but still class myself as a beginner. Really love your videos. Very informative with no chit chat rubbish. Just teaching. I’m working my way through them all at the moment.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Hooray!! Happy Learning!

[@LynnNexus]

I sincerely appreciate how you both explained this process and the tips you gave in relation to how you do this process. I appreciate that your commentary is clearly thought about but that you haven't edited out your own personality, it makes the video feel more genuine. I've been cruzing through different quilter youtubes and I'm sick to death of people who are clearly here to Make content not quilts. The controlled chaos of your process was both satisfying to watch and oddly comforting. Continue being awesome.

[@updownstate]

I can get so engrossed in sewing I lose track of time then suddenly realize that it's dark out, I'm very hungry and I need to dash to the bathroom.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Me too!

[@cathyphegley7848]

That’s called being a quilter🤣

[@psum6537]

You’ve arrived sister! You’re one of us now❤❤❤! Welcome!

[@annablock8037]

OMG. I just found you and have been binge watching your tutorials. Your voice is incredibly soothing. Your teaching style is wonderful. The style of quilts you make are exactly what I love to make. An organized scrappy quilt. I’m not the hugest fan of the “kitchen sink” scrappy or crumb-so I’m super excited to see your videos. I will be watching them all and then waiting for new ones. Thank you so much. I have found my new favorite!

[@merrymabelmarket]

What a kind thoughtful note. Thank you so much for your sweet words!!

[@kathrynhenry8719]

I love this idea. I have jelly rolls. I don't know what to do with, and this seems perfect! Will be watching fir more if your tutorials😊

[@Cy-bz9jh]

@annablock8037 ... _*Organized Scrappy*_. Love it. As I explained in my comment it makes my brain hurt to just see a huge mish-mash of color. There's no thought for how our eyes move, stop, move, stop. Did you come up with "Organized Scrappy"? You could find these beautiful quilts, have the designers write them up, and publish a book... "The New Organized Scrappy Quilt Pattern Book". Start it with this one!!! I'd buy one!!! And a few for gifts!

[@karencarlisle4754]

I've watched about a zillion quilting videos. This one is my absolute favorite. Keep making more quilting videos... They are the best. You've inspired me to sort scraps by color instead of just by size. ❤️❤️

[@merrymabelmarket]

So kind and encouraging. Thank you.

[@jennietownsend7472]

​@@merrymabelmarket❤

[@deloreseickholtz9822]

Loved your video & how you explain!!

[@jilllazdane8861]

I love the tip about the central colour/fabric theme. Very clever. AND yep, I get you, it's all about how your brain feels.

[@DMac315]

I see you are newer to KZbin. I have seen many quilting videos and you are really good at it! I am looking forward to more. I learned a few things I can carry over to my own quilting.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you so much!

[@ShadowMoonFarms]

I'm with you on coordinated colors. Total scrappy is too chaotic for me and I always make color coordinated blocks as well. I can't get down on the floor any more. So it's either put them out on a big table or on the design wall. I finally have a small design wall near my sewing machine, and that has helped so much with making sure that "nothing is annoying me". Thank you

[@sewforlife5728]

That is awesome! Never seen someone do a string quilt with a pattern to it or a color scheme. Those are beautiful.👍

[@GinnyFinsterwald]

Never stop sharing your quilting tutorials! I especially love this one and have already made one for a wedding gift. More will be made for Christmas gifts. Thank you so much. You are a treasure.

[@merrymabelmarket]

I'm SO glad you love it too!

[@michelekestler7024]

I missed the part of what you use for the foundation piece. What can you use???

[@juliaraley9563]

Oooooo, I love the yellow (and that is not usually my “go to color.”) these are so fun, I can see how they can become addictive! Thank you for all you do.

[@merrymabelmarket]

You are so welcome!

[@SewSupportive]

I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve watched this video. Your videos always cheer me up. ❤

[@merrymabelmarket]

I'm so glad. What a kind comment!!

[@villagesteader3552]

I just love watching your videos! Your personality always makes me feel happy and energized, and I need that desperately in my life as I am a caregiver for my Mom. I won’t bore you with the details but I need a little boosting up most days, and you always do that for me! Thank you.♥️👍🙏🤓

[@merrymabelmarket]

I have been a caregiver a couple of different "segments" of my life, so I totally understand the need for cheer and happiness. I wish you ALL the best as you navigate this time in life.

[@villagesteader3552]

@@merrymabelmarket thank you and I’m praying for you and watching all of your videos while I sew. We all have our burdens…

[@annablock8037]

I truly love this idea with the colorful strip in the middle and only using two other colors.

[@victorialopez526]

Oh my goodness! Your video just showed up on my feed. Thank goodness for that. I loved ❤❤❤ your quilt and also how you teach your entire process. I could listen to your voice all day. Thank you!

[@RoeRoe123]

I'm so glad this just showed up in my feed 🤗 I love your production style. It's genius and your design is beautiful!

[@ramonaduncan2151]

"I just make sure that nothing is annoying me!" That's how I do things, too :-)

[@vickiemasturzo2303]

I just wanted to thank you! I thought I was the only one who continually messed up the order of my string blocks. I love the way you ‘coordinate’ the strings much easier on the eyes.

[@barbiesilva3628]

I love your thought process. It truly is a brain thing for me too. I have to be organized, everything has to be organized and neat. Thanks for sharing. Can’t wait to try this method😊❤❤❤

[@debbielee7117]

If anyone is worried about the weight of the quilt, you could skip batting if you’re using flannel for the foundation and make it a summer weight quilt.

[@DorisPowell-kx9te]

Best string quilt video. I am a big fan of your videos..I am 86 and still learning. You have made quilting much easier for me. So thank you.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Wonderful! I am so glad!

[@leerobs1118]

Hi from South Africa 🇿🇦 I've done quilt as you go scrappy style string quilting and I loved it. I used old clothes that just aren't good to give away. This is the ultimate recycling... now we my sleep under fabric that would have been land fill. Thanks for your video. I found it rather calming to watch❤

[@merrymabelmarket]

So kind of you to say.

[@juneroberts5305]

I just love how efficiently you work with the blocks - saves a ton of time!! 🌸

[@captaindutchlass]

I sew a strip on both sides of the centre strip in one go. Loses a bit of time on the chain piecing, but gains it on the pressing.

[@christinesmith7838]

I just love your attitude - we match - thank you, thank you!

[@ambermyers4256]

I love both of the sewing videos you have posted! You are witty while helping beginner quilters like me learn. I hope there are more to come!

[@connieking9873]

I enjoy all your videos. I find myself clicking on next for several videos. My saved list is growing. You can hear your joy. My favorite has been your pinning rows. Best idea for me.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Wonderful! Thanks for sharing.

[@bonniefowler5013]

I like the way you organize and work on 24 blocks at a time. If you were going to make a bigger quilt I assume you would work on all the blocks, say 36 blocks, through each stage. Excellent strategy for creating string quilt. Excellent video, loved the format and I learnt a lot. I look forward to seeing your process of 'quilt sandwiching' and quilting a top in a future video.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Yes. No matter how many, if it is for one quilt, i do them all at once.

[@jennybaker5713]

I'd love to do some coasters or placemats like this. Would it be good to do 5" foundations or 10" and then cut them into 5" squares?

[@merrymabelmarket]

I have done smaller blocks with small strings. They are adorable. Go gor it.

[@debbiethornton3254]

So happy I found you! Thank you!!

[@merrymabelmarket]

I'm happy you found us too!

[@paulaneary7877]

I always use a large seam allowance. It isn't cheating IMO. It is my project. Beautiful work, thank you for the video!

[@cherylanon5791]

I'm with you-- for kid's quilts especially which get loved & washed a lot, I use 1/2 inch seams (and no triangles) Log Cabin, string, 9 patch etc.

[@ProudAmericanMom]

Just found your channel! You are awesome! Not only do you share awesome tips but your video production is PERFECT! LOVE the voice over & your editing is perfect! Thank you sooo much! 😘

[@updownstate]

Yep, this one's a keeper.

[@bethstodieck18]

I LOVE hearing your thought process! The WHY is sooooo hard to teach someone else and hearing you talk about it sometimes being just because it doesn’t feel right feels sooo good! Video is great but the why you do what you do is so much more valuable!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you.

[@lorrainewilliams7896]

Gorgeous work. I love how you control the chaos with your color choices and the matching center strips. VERY inspirational. Thanks for posting this!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thanks for watching. I love string quilts!

[@vikkirountoit497]

I love how you use a single center piece in all the blocks - brings everything together and makes it pop. I have some fun kids fabrics I will do this with - orange with zebras, lavender with cows - I think they will turn out cute paired with black/white:)

[@yvethemetriccrafter688]

It looks gorgeous, I would love to see how you quilt them .

[@merrymabelmarket]

I'll remember that for the future.

[@carolentringer8836]

I'll tell you how I do mine. Since there is a foundation piece, I do not use batting. Using my sewing machine, I quilt each block down and across. Then, I use 6 strands of embroidery floss to hand tie the centers.

[@yvethemetriccrafter688]

@@carolentringer8836 thank you .

[@robincadwalader1556]

This lighter weight quilt does not require further quilting. The backing is flannel, no filler is needed. Each parallel strip is stitched right thru to the back.

[@Pam-tx5zd]

I love your videos. Lots of detail without loads of waffle talk. Thank you x

[@redknitter]

I just found your videos. I love your quilting style. Quick, fun and informative. I really lose interest in the ones that take a long time to show what they're doing and drag it out. Can't wait to see more from you.

[@kims.9677]

I agree. I'm too impatient and want to run to my sewing nook asap. 😁

[@ann-mariejensen2623]

I love this and they are so cute! Thank you for the commentary pointing out that this can be a mindless project.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thanks for watching!

[@kittylo15]

watching this for the first time was nearly magical this looks like such a neat efficient way to create a lovely quilt, thanks for sharing

[@diannenaworensky6698]

I enjoyed the comment about dyslexia. I have had 3 strokes so I get really confused sometimes. I have notes everywhere so that I can remember basic things. I haven't done any kind of quilting in a while but I still pinned and marked everything. At least we feel like we know what we are doing😊😊😊

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you for sharing this.

[@marshawallace7522]

I too like to use the same fabric usually in the center of each of my string blocks and to limit the number of colors that I use for the quilt. I like controlled scrappy. I just happened to find you and I am binge watching some of your tutorials. I enjoy your teaching and enthusiasm!

[@merrymabelmarket]

I'll enjoy hanging out with you!!

[@AvaGld2309]

Thank you so much for your honesty. I struggle with migraines and sometimes I need something easy and thoughtless, so I appreciate you letting me know this is a good one for that. Also I like your intuitive approach. So much less stressful!

[@merrymabelmarket]

I hope this works for you when you head isn't co-operating!

[@angelynbenjamin6661]

Such a beautiful way to use up the scraps. Loved the colour combinations

[@momijiyamanishi4548]

I just love love the results of this project.

[@lisevivier1878]

You have a soothing voice, I can watch your videos for hours.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Kind of you to say. Please do!!

[@aidesoria6589]

I never ever have to think again! 😂 i love that saying.

[@vanessakemp5748]

Thankyou for your videos. This one especially really helped me understand how to do this quilt and just being a regular person enjoying their sewing. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@merrymabelmarket]

Wonderful! Thank you for your sweet comment.

[@carolcreations26]

I love the idea of a specific center color, it helps to coordinate the quilt. I just don't enjoy the totally scrappy quilts so much. Thank you for the idea of making one that doesn't "annoy". LOL

[@momistaken]

Ya know, the quilt police are really understaffed these days, so no worries, lol! We are free to make our homey quilts, to give love to others, especially children, who have never read about 1/4 inch seams!

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

Your blocks and quilt top is beautiful. I sleep under a String quilt every night. But, I built mine on paper foundations (and pulled the papers off after joining the blocks). Yes. It is heavy. I like it that way.

[@merrymabelmarket]

I bet that’s a lovely quilt!

[@heavensmountains323]

Unusual & I love it. Can’t wait to ‘whip one up’! You make it look so effortless. 💕🇨🇦

[@abigailtodd7114]

Honestly at the start of this video I was like “this is gonna look awefull”😂 I’m glad I watched the whole thing cause I actually really like the end result👏👏😂haha.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Right? You made me laugh!

[@leshammack2261]

Hi! Judy Hammack here. Just recently found your channel. Love watching you and you have such great ideas and you have inspired me for several future projects. I have only just recently gotten into piecing. I find that like you, if I don't clip or pin the squares together, I am so much more likely to get confused!!! I really like this idea and it has given me an idea for some great nieces!! Thank you for your channel and sharing your ideas and experience. ❤️

[@merrymabelmarket]

Welcome!! Thank you for the sweet note.

[@philnasmith9755]

I like how you plan your colours. The black and white with the pink centre stirs are gorgeous.(3:36)

[@lindawilson3770]

I just separated all my scraps by color and while I did start some crumble blocks I really do like this idea. My brain is already putting color combinations together. Your quilt is beautiful and I loved your method of putting this together. Thank you!

[@joycerideout6311]

Beautiful love your quilt s👍❤️

[@bonniestalhiem8025]

Awesome tutorial! Gives me some new ideas for my leftover jelly roll strips! 👍🏻💖👵🏻

[@shastalinphotography5849]

Thank you so much for explaining about how you put your rows together! I have the same type of dyslexia and get so confused when trying to put the rows together! You just saved me!!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sandratorres9635]

I love the consistent center color idea. They are beautiful scrappy blocks. Thanks for sharing your talents and time.

[@jeandryja6992]

This is a great video! I am going to use your way of making string blocks in the future the center piece is genius. Scrappy string blocks make me dizzy but a color theme is a great idea.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Glad it was helpful!

[@CatherineDoucette]

Love how you number the blocks ❤

[@joantabb3062]

I love all your quilting projects. I've learned so much from you. I'm dyslexic too.

[@marymay722]

Love every one of your quilts! Absolutely gorgeous

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you so much!

[@KelleysQuiltsandCruises]

I love making string blocks. I’m currently saving up enough blocks to make a star quilt. I love your idea of one fabric as the middle for all the blocks.

[@doreenwatson-read]

I have learnt so much about myself watching this, my brain hurts when I do little things because I just get lost in thought and go wrong every time, I too love your quilts they are lovely.

[@pyenygren2299]

I l-o-v-e sewing different string blocks like this; especially courthouse steps.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Me too!! I was just planning a courthouse step wall hanging.

[@ShabnamNaqvi]

I love your choice of prints and your technique. Watching you work at it is a treat. Beautiful quilt and I would love to try my hand at it. Thanks a lot for the inspiration.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you so much!

[@Carylanne927]

I found you months ago when I wanted to make my 1st trip around the world, and just couldn't get started, I will admit it has yet to be sewn, I have the fabrics grouped, but can't seam to make that first cut. Any way I digress, I am enjoying your baby quilts tonight, as I find 24 9.5" blocks are becoming a favorite for layouts, THANKS for your work and bringing joy to so many of us.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Great to hear! Be brave. It's just fabric. Cut some 3.5 inch strips and make the "trip". You can do it.

[@BrendaH289]

I love these quilts ♥️🌹

[@franzzypants]

I love that you pin the rows together. Such a genius move. Will definitely try for myself on the next quilt

[@cynthiarowe5768]

I totally love string quilting. Your so right it’s very relaxing and stress free.

[@reaganatkins6128]

I'm a beginner quilter and truly love this video. You made it look so easy that I had to try it. Thank you

[@merrymabelmarket]

Hooray!! It's a great one for beginners (and experienced people too!)

[@cathy2329]

I always wondered if I could sew cotton to flannel. Glad you can. 😊

[@terryanderson6153]

So fun to watch you do this. They turn out so nice. Love the monochromatic colors.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

Love it and the way you do it makes so much sense to me.

[@mrsmcphate]

Great tutorial! I love how these blocks look! I have so many scraps! This will be a fantastic way to use them up! I just love this quilt with the black and white and that pop of turquoise. It's so adorable!! Thanks for sharing!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you for watching!

[@glendateasley8903]

I love this quilt! I appreciate your calm and warm instructions. I am just starting quilting at the age of 65 and scared to death of messing up. Thank you for inspiring me to start! ❤

[@merrymabelmarket]

You will be just fine!! Enjoy the process!!

[@dafairygirl86]

OMG your idea for pinning the rows together so you can keep track of them without thinking is GENIUS. I'm doing that from NOW ON

[@merrymabelmarket]

This step really does help me.

[@joannsilva4715]

Your strings are beautiful! Love that black & white! ❤ You definitely have an eye for color! Very nice work!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank You.

[@koalasez1200]

Great tutorial!!! Love your voice; easy to listen to. No "jibber jabber" that is distracting....just a very easy going play by play description. Hadn't though of doing the same center [not sure why] but now that I've seen this, I will try. Thank you for sharing. Look forward to seeing more from you! ❤

[@shirleymcgowan688]

Love this video! It’s not slow! Your quilts are awesome! Now I’m going to make some! Thanks!

[@carlabattle8301]

I love this quilt. I never tried to use the same color as my middle strip. I love how they matched up.

[@merrymabelmarket]

They are SO fun to make.

[@christinacooper3954]

You’re style is growing on me 👍

[@nanashouse202]

Love this chain piece method. Thank you so much for the demo.

[@suebean3873]

Very beautiful. I love the middle string in one single colour and the border the same as well. Very nice. Thank you for all the tips.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thank you so much!

[@lal7robertson]

I just want to sayHi and thank you so very, very much for inspiring me. I have been in a funk for the last several months. I usually sew everyday as I am retired. I love scraps and you have inspired me to get back into my sewing studio and get sewing again. I love your methods and positive approach to all sewing projects. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@merrymabelmarket]

Yay!! Sewing therapy is the BEST kind!! Hugs to you.

[@dianeetcheverry6452]

Such an upbeat video. Makes me happy!

[@rutheewilson520]

I love string blocks and agree with you that they are great “mindless” sewing. I often use string blocks to “make” fabric for other items. (If I didn’t, I don’t know if I could move around in my studio!) Thanks for taking the time to make great videos, your efforts are appreciated!

[@lindawilson3770]

I just separated all my scraps by color and have been looking for different ways to sew them up. I love using the same fabric for the middle strip and border as it really makes the quilt pop.

[@Kate98755]

i label the top row too, it works so well! I usually have to sew in bits of time, this keeps me organized for the next strp. I also have collected old sheets, I use them as stabilizing foundation…we were emptying out my parents house because they downsized….my sisters saw just old sheets….i saw precious quilting material ! 😂 i love organized scrappy…i made a quilt with 2” squares of different plaid fabric…collected over years, but each block was framed with the same color, which organized the scrappy look….i like how you have one strip the same in the middle of each square, which when brought together makes a pattern…will start this same project soon. my goal is to make some baby quilts for inventory, if i’m not alive there will be quilts for future great grandchildren….this would be a quick but beautiful way to achieve this…been trying to decide what pattern to do. thank you !

[@merrymabelmarket]

I too LOVE old sheets for those foundations! I love your plan to leave beautiful "baby" quilts behind. Brilliant!!

[@cherylbrown4058]

Love the use of flannel as your foundation. That really adds to the feel of the quilt ,

[@angief1330]

The quilt is gorgeous, I am definitely going to try this method, thank you.

[@dianasmith4267]

Hello from Norfolk, England. Ive been making string quilts, many for charity raffles etc for a while now but i love the idea of one band colour in the centre. Beautiful Diana❤

[@merrymabelmarket]

Wonderful!

[@wandawalker4191]

Loved this tutorial! You did an awesome job! Your blocks are beautiful. Pinning the rows together is a very smart idea!!

[@merrymabelmarket]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@anniequilts]

You should try a Bladesaver thread cutter - way easier and faster than scissors. I love mine. I also love your video - all the steps shown without added fluff to make the video longer. I also like seeing the different sets of blocks in different colors. Did you mention how much fabric you need for the center strips that are all the same fabric for the 24 blocks and the border?

[@merrymabelmarket]

I just looked up what a Bladesaver thread cutter is. Looks fun! I did forget to tell that you will need EIGHT 2.5 inch strips - cut into thirds for the centers to have enough for 24 blocks. That would be just under 2/3rds of a yard. Thank you for commenting!

[@arethamorgan6613]

I love these colors. 😍

[@sharonsimmons5630]

I have made many of these,I quit using a foundation .They seem to turn out just fine.So fun to make.

[@Hiawatha128]

I agree with your video technique. It's much more interesting than most other quilters. So glad I stumbled on your channel.