Little Christmas Tree

Little Christmas Tree
12" x 12" x 1 1/2"

This cute little tree was inspired by some giftwrap.  So, unlike most of my projects, it is in no way original!  I saw the little triangle tree and was curious if I could sew triangles?  Yes! It can be done.
First I selected a palette of colors.

Next, I knew that I would need a triangle template to cut out all the triangles.  I opted for some heavy watercolor paper, and cut the triangle to a true size using the angles on my cutting mat and my rotary cutting ruler.  These triangles are easy because all the angles are 60 degrees, and that is conveniently marked on my tools!

Without thinking about it too much, I knew that I wanted to start small, but not so small that it would be difficult to handle.  I selected a 3" side length, and didn't worry too much about the final size. This one was used as a template for the red polka dots.  *I put a piece of sticky tape on the back, stuck it to my fabric, and then used my rotary ruler to add 1/4" seam allowance to each side before cutting.

Next, I decide to piece half the triangles, so I made another triangle like the first one and just cut it in half.

I did NOT use the orange plastic triangle at all, except to look at.  I have had it since I took drafting in high school, and use it for a visual reference. These were used on the solid blue and the checkered blue.  See note * above regarding cutting.

This project went together really quickly, about 1/2 day.  I cut everything first, then lined them up on a design wall.  I selected two pieces at a time, right sides together and stitched.  I opted to start and stop 1/4" in from the edges so that I had more options for pressing the seams.

When I completed the tree, I used that 60 degree angle to cut some white triangles for the background.  Add a strip at the bottom with the red checkered tree trunk, and done!  I quilted it in concentric triangles, so it went rather quickly with the walking foot. 

It finished out at 12 1/2 " which gave me just enough seam allowance to add the blue quilted borders, which made it big enough to wrap around a 12" x 12" canvas. Such a lovely finish, and easy to hang with one nail.  LOVE!