Easy Piecing Dresden Plates

The photo above © Quilter by Design

Overview of Dresden Plates

Dresden Plates are a classic quilting pattern that gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s. These blocks are ideal for using fabric scraps, as each "blade" can be cut from small pieces of fabric. This guide provides a machine-sewing method for creating these beautiful blocks efficiently.

Materials Needed

To create nine 12" Dresden Plate blocks, you will need:

• 1 yard of solid fabric for the background
• 1/4 yard of four different colors (each measuring 9” x 44”)
• 3-1/2” strip of yellow fabric for center circles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Templates: Transfer the pattern pieces to template material and cut out, ensuring the seam allowance is included for Blade Template A.
2. Cut the Blades: From each of the four colors, cut two strips measuring 4-1/2" x 44". Use the Dresden Plate Blade Template A to cut twenty-seven blades from each color.
3. Sew the Blades:
   1. Fold the first blade in half lengthwise, right sides together, and sew across the wide end with a 1/4" seam.
   2. Backstitch at the folded edge for reinforcement.
   3. Clip the corner to reduce bulk.
4. Press the Blades: Finger press the folded edge, turn the blade right side out, and align the seam with the crease. Press with a hot iron.
5. Chain Sewing: Chain sew the blades to save time without clipping threads between them.
6. Assemble the Plate: Join the blades together, alternating colors. Use four colors per block, with three blades of each color per plate. Sew twelve blades into a large circle.
7. Add the Center Circles: Trace the Circle Template onto the wrong side of the yellow fabric, adding seam allowance. Use your preferred appliqué method to attach.
8. Prepare Background Squares: Cut nine 12-1/2" squares from the background fabric, folding and finger pressing to create alignment creases.
9. Appliqué the Plates: Align the Dresden Plates with the creased lines on the background squares. Pin in place and machine appliqué using nylon thread. Attach the yellow center circles as well.
10. Finish the Quilt: Join your blocks into three rows of three, add borders, and layer with batting and backing. Quilt as desired and finish with binding.

Bonus: How to Create a Fancy Dresden Plate

To enhance your Dresden Plates, consider dividing each blade vertically and using contrasting fabrics. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Template: Draw a vertical line on your template for cutting guidance.
2. Cut Contrasting Fabrics: Sew two strips of contrasting fabric together, subcut into wedges that are at least 1/2" longer than the vertical length of your template.
3. Cut the Blades: Center the vertical line on your template with the seam of the two fabrics and cut out the blade. Ensure consistency in fabric placement for even shading.
4. Continue Piecing: Follow the original instructions to complete your Dresden Plate blocks.

For detailed diagrams and additional resources, visit the Easy Piecing Dresden Plates page. Enjoy your new quilting project!