Gemini Build-A-Block Patchwork System
Gemini Build-A-Block Patchwork System
From the brand
| Weight: | 1.36 Kilograms |
| Dimensions: | 22.23 x 22.23 x 13.34 cm; 1.36 Kilograms |
| Model: | GEM-MD-MD-BAB |
| Batteries Required: | No |
| Dimensions: | 22.23 x 22.23 x 13.34 cm; 1.36 Kilograms |
So excited by these as I am rubbish at had cutting.
Yes there is a wee bit more wasted fabric than using the conventional ruler/rotary cutter method, but the accuracy and speed of cutting more than makes up for it. Especially when the finished quilt requires hundreds or even just dozens of pieces.
I have also purchased the Build a Block Plus set and can highly recommend both sets of dies to beginners and seasoned quilters alike.
If you are unfamiliar with patchworking cutting, please do not confuse these cutting dies with cutting templates, the two are not the same. These cutting dies can only be used with a die cutting machine e.g. Gemini, Cut n Boss, Grand Calibur, Big Shot etc.
The Gemini Build-a-block patchwork system is a wonderful tool for the avid quilter. It allows you to cut through lots of pieces of fabric all in one go with very little effort. This is done by stacking them and running them through the machine with one of the templates that the kit comes with.
This is certainly a huge quilting time saver, but I can’t help but feel that you end up wasting a lot of fabric by cutting in this way. Also, you can’t carefully choose which bit of fabric you would like to have in your block – they are all stacked up and not visible to you. This is fine for plain fabrics, but not so great for patterns.
Finally, the selection of templates is a little bit limited, especially considering the price-tag. Because of these things I have decided that I personally prefer cutting my fabrics by hand.
Bought for my mother-in-law. She’s elderly, but ‘with it’ and dexterous. She is a keen ‘patchworker’ But tends to stick with standard squares. This product enables her to produce different shapes without any hard work of cutting the shapes out by hand. A brilliant product for somebody who is keen at sewing/patchwork. Time saving and a wonderful gadget to have in your ‘sewing room’. Highly recommended, even though it’s a bit ‘pricey’, the spend is very worthwhile.
And it really is amazing – and quite beautiful. Once you take the lid off the box, the inner section isn’t just a box, but a little set of drawers. Three of them. Each with a different set of cutting templates = die sets: quarter triangle, half square and full square. There are six in each set, allowing you to create patchwork blocks from 3 inches to 12 inches. The seam allowance is included in the size and you can cut more than one piece at a time. AND there is a block pattern guide book to get you started with your designing. It is fabulous. I’ve already got my design worked out and started cutting pattern pieces. Can’t wait to start sewing. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, this is definitely a necessity for your sewing room!
There’s no price avaliable at the time of writing this review so I can’t comment on its value compared to buying them in smaller individual packs but I usually find that complete sets save you quite a bit if you’re intending to use the majority of its contents.
There’s a drawer each for quarters, halves and for full squares. Packaged perfectly to reduce the space needed and ensure the items stay in perfect condition.
I had quite a time of trying to open the box but once I got the top box off I realized it had been packaged with the inner box facing the wrong way so the drawers were facing the indent you needed to pull the tight fitting outer box off.
Great bit of kit if you’re serious about quilting but if you’re dabbling perhaps try some cheaper items firs