Free Quilt Block Christmas Tree Ornament

Have I got some adorable for you! This new pattern is a miniature version of our Dawn quilt block pattern. Except it's not just a mini quilt block, it's also a Christmas Tree Ornament! At this point, I know what you're thinking. It can't get any better than this! Well, you're wrong! Because it does get better. This pattern is available for FREE! 

To achieve this very tiny size (the ornament finishes at roughly 2½" square), this pattern uses foundation paper piecing. I doubt it'd be possible to get this particular pattern so small without FPP!

Are you familiar with the term Foundation Paper Piecing or FPP for short? It's a fascinating way of piecing and it's not like traditional patchwork. With traditional patchwork, you cut the squares to exactly the size you need and then piece them. With FPP, you cut the fabric a little larger than you need and then you sew the fabrics onto a template that's printed on foundation paper. If this is new to you, I suggest taking a look at this tutorial before trying your hand at this pattern.

The block is so small, that it uses only a few very small scraps. This means that you could probably make this with supplies at home like right now if you wanted to! It will help you use up those small scraps in the most adorable way. 

I do have to give you a heads-up. While this is a quick project, it's a little on the fiddly side as is usually the case with miniature quilts! So while the original Dawn quilt block is a beginner-friendly project, I would not say the same for this ornament pattern. I'd say this pattern is definitely intermediate. So if you're up for a challenge, you'll love making a few of these for your tree!

This version really is a mini replica of the larger quilt block. Meg used the scraps from the original Dawn quilt block and she even mimicked the quilting! How adorable is that?

You can machine quilt it like Meg did with the pink one. Or you can hand-quilt it like I did with this one. Meg machine quilted hers before attaching the backing. I hand quilted mine once the backing was on and it was all sewn up. I didn't mark mine so the quilting is a little wonky, but you can mark your quilting lines first which will make it easier to keep the stitches straight.

Instead of a Christmas tree ornament, you could make a pin cushion. Grab a bottle of emery and instead of adding the ribbon, sew it up according to the directions and then stuff it with emery. Now, wouldn't that make an adorable pin cushion?

What will you be making with this free Christmas Tree Ornament pattern? Let me know in the comments below!