I came upon a house block I had photocopied from a library book quite some time ago.   I’ve since learned its proper name is a schoolhouse block or Little Red Schoolhouse.  It looked simple yet there were a lot of little pieces to work with – 28 to form the house.

Piecing is tricky, and I had difficulty with the roof point and matching up seams.  I had several “stitch it again” moments, trying to get closer to a reasonable accuracy.

It’s a big 8 x 9 inch, with a layer of insul-brite and a layer of cotton batting, so it’ll do the job even though the house is homely and crooked.

 

I attached and quilted with a walking foot for the first time.  It was simple to attach: I removed the shank and foot with the screwdriver that came with the machine, screwed the foot into position while putting the “claw” in place as seen on the right.

 

I found a long strip of two fabrics I had previously sewn together, and made a simple 9 patch pincushion from the strip. 

I use it for needles I’m currently sewing with, and need to put down without losing them.

On the subject of lost and found, I was happy to find my lost strawberry needlebook many months ago in my box of lace and trim.  And to think I blamed the dog!

 

Links to free schoolhouse quilt blocks:

grandmothers choice.blogspot:  an 8 inch finished block and also an interesting look at Lucy Stone and women’s education in the 19th century.

popular patchwork:  downloadable pdf with templates and instructions.

quiltmag:  pdf for a 12 inch finished block with directions and templates.

creative partners:  a downloadable diagram.

mccalls quilting:   a 2 inch block,  miniature quilt  with Kasse Fassett prints.

see how we sew.wordpress:   history of the schoolhouse block and inspirational examples.