Welcome Jennifer, The gals heading the Lotto (toolgranny/Linda and polardream/Sue) will be along and answer your questions soon. But, suffice it to say, there are very few 'rules' but certainly some guidelines to consider. On the other hand, we pride ourselves in keeping the Quilt Police away from all of us. Hope you enjoy your time with us.

Sharon

Welcome, Jennifer. You are very welcome to join us. I hope I can make it more clear.

You can make a block by hand or machine. The secret is in following the pattern and getting an accurate 1/4" seam allowance so they turn out to be the exact size specified. Making a block doesn't require a locking stitch although some do it out of habit. The thread should match the fabric. You should use 100% quilt shop grade cotton. It can be new or something you already have in your stash. It does not have to be prewashed.

When you look up the pattern that is linked to each month, it will show you how to make it. If not sure, there are lots of you-tube and other sites on the internet that give you lots of instruction. I don't know how experienced you are so don't know how much help to offer. But, if you come up with a question as you work, by all means let us know and we will help. We were all beginners once and this forum is where many of us got our support and education. Feel free to ask.

You can contact me by e-mail and I'll give you an address to send things to. Refer to the lotto posting from December about all of 2015.

Linda/Toolgranny