Let's make berries!

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	Many applique blocks have berries, grapes or other elements that are basically a circle. The method that I describe in this pictorial is not unique. Many of you already use this method. For those of you who are just learning, you will find that this method is fairly fool-proof.

Tools: There are a number of products on the market that will simplify the process of making berries. Plastic die-cut circles are great. I prefer a heat resistant Mylar circle. It is possible to make the circles with regular plastic circle die cuts, however. We will discuss this alternate method. Check our links page for a source for the Mylar circles. I also like a circle template that I picked up at an office supply store. It isn't necessary but it is nice.
	Method: First, I select a plastic or mylar circle that is the appropriate size. I then use my circle template to draw a circle on the backside of my berry fabric. This circle needs to be about 1/2" larger in diameter than the finished size of the berry if the berry is 1/2" in diameter or larger. That is, for a 1/2" berry I draw a 1" circle; for a 3/4" grape I draw a 1 1/4" circle. This will allow plenty of seam allowance. For smaller berries the seam allowance will have to be less.
Next, cut out the berry.
	It isn't necessary to actually draw the berry plus seam allowance on the back of your fabric. It is perfectly OK to free-cut the berry. To do this, hold the berry in place while you cut around it allowing approximately 1/4" for seam allowance.

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