ASSEMBLING HOUSES Step 1.) Trace drawing lines for chimneys (58, 66, 67, & 76), windows (62, 63, 71, 72, 73, 74, 81, 82, 83, 84, & 85), door (70), and pathways (65 & 75) onto sheer fusible interfacing and layer with appropriate fabric. Referring to Diagram 3, stitch slightly outside of drawn lines. Clip corners, turn, smooth edges using toothpick and finger press edges. Set units aside until ready to use in the appropriate house. Diagram 3 THE GENERAL'S HOUSE Step 2.) One of the most challenging pieces to appliqu>= in the Village quilt is the round window. It's difficult to get the edges even and smooth. The following technique will help make the task easier: Transfer round window outline (Piece 64) to a lightweight piece of cardboard (poster board works well) and cut out circle as accurately as possible. (A flat "washer" the size of the window can also be used.) Lay the template or washer on the wrong side of the fabric and draw a line around it. Cut out fabric circle, adding seam allowance. Run a basting stitch, by hand, along the outside edge of the fabric. Leave long threads at the beginning and end of the seam (Diagram 4). Center the template or washer in the center of the fabric circle and pull the threads tight around it. This eases the fullness in evenly. Press seam allowance, loosen threads and remove template. Pull basting threads again and carefully tie them together, making sure the fabric lies flat. Cut off excess basting thread. Set window aside until ready to appliqu>= into place. (Tip: If appliqu>=ing a round window is not preferred, use a yellow button.) Diagram 4 Step 3.) Assemble door (61) and steps (56 & 57) unit (Diagram 5). Sew house, roof, and foundation fabrics together (Diagram 6). Remember to position door under the fusible interfacing before stitching layers together. Diagram 5 Diagram 6 Return to Pattern Index