A. To enlarge template patterns:
Enlarge by the squaring method, as follows: On brown paper, draw a grid of horizontal and vertical lines 2.5 cm (1 in) apart. Each square on the diagram equals a 2.5 cm square on your paper. Enlarge by drawing each line of the template design onto the corresponding square on your paper. Transfer labels and grain lines.
B. To prepare templates:
Trace template patterns A, B, C, E, F, G, H and J onto Mylar or transfer onto cardboard. Turn pieces C and H over and trace to make reverse templates CR and HR. Cut out and label all templates (6 mm seam allowance is already included).
C. To cut fabrics:
From cream broadcloth, cut 1 piece 240 x 112 cm (94-1/2 x 44 in) and 1 piece 240 x 50 cm (94-1/2 x 19-3/4 in), for backing. Trace around templates and cut 54 A pieces, 116 B pieces, 13 C pieces, 13 CR pieces, 8 E pieces, 30 F pieces, 116 G pieces, 13 H pieces and 13 HR pieces, for background.
From summer fabrics, cut approx 250 B pieces. From winter fabrics, cut approx 170 B pieces. From autumn fabrics, cut approx 150 B pieces. From spring fabrics, cut approx 70 B pieces. From trunk fabrics, cut approx 168 J pieces. Approximate quantities allow for choice when arranging.
D. To piece:
1. Referring to Diagram A (in pattern) and photo, arrange and pin to sheet horizontal rows of trees (composed of seasonally coloured triangles) plus background triangles alternating with rows of tree trunks plus background pieces. Begin with winter tree fabrics at bottom and gradually work through spring, summer, autumn and back to winter at top. Use the darkest-coloured tree trunks in the winter range. Blend colours by using fabrics from two seasons for some trees.
2. Beginning first row with an HR piece and ending with an H piece, sew side edges of tree trunks (J) and background pieces E, F and G together in one long strip.
3. Piece tree triangles (B) together in blocks of 4 triangles (full tree) and 3 triangles plus one background triangle (half tree) as illustrated in top right corner of Diagram A. Beginning next row with a CR piece and ending with a C piece, sew side edges of trees and background triangles (A) together in one long strip.
4. Piece all rows as in steps 2 and 3.
5. Stitch rows together along long edges, centring trunks under trees.
Page 2 of 3 – Find directions to finish your quilt, plus see additional photos of the Canada quilt on page 3.
