Prim Machine Embroidery Stitch Along – Block 7
Block 7: Church
The Church block brings together several of the most beautiful elements in the Prim quilt, architectural lines, subtle textures, and layered details that create a sense of depth. This block is a wonderful example of how thread work can enhance the design every bit as much as the fabrics, and sometimes even become the main visual feature.
In Block 7, you’ll work with cover stitching, embossing, and decorative detail stitching, all of which help mimic fabric texture while adding dimension to the structure of the church, the roof, and the scene around it.
Thread as a Design Element
While many blocks rely primarily on appliqué for shape, the Church block leans heavily on threadwork to create texture and visual interest. This means your stitching choices, speed, tension, stabilizer, and fabric prep, make a noticeable difference in the outcome.
Throughout the block you’ll see how thread is used to:
- Notice the detailed wooden stairs and trim
- Create plaid shingles on the roof
- Add embossed texture to walls and windows
- Bring dimension to the bird, leaves, and surrounding details
- Outline structural features with clean cover stitching
The result is a block with depth and definition, even with minimal layering.
Cover Stitching for Clean Architectural Lines
Cover stitching is featured prominently in this block, especially along the church’s roofline, entryway, and windows.
Tips for crisp, consistent cover stitching:
- Maintaining even hoop tension, cover stitches magnify distortion if the fabric shifts.
- Slow your machine for corners and tight curves to keep the thread stack even.
- Make sure the stabilizer (Heavy Weight Tear-Away) stays fully supported under dense stitched areas.
This block is an excellent opportunity to see how cover stitching defines structure, creating clean edges where precision really matters.
Embossing for Subtle Texture
Several sections of the Church block use embossed stitching, intentional recessed patterns created by the density and direction of the fill. These areas mimic the texture of woven or printed fabrics without adding layers.
Embossing is used to:
- Suggest wall texture
- Add dimension in the window areas
- Create soft visual contrast without another color change
Embossed stitching adds richness without overwhelming the simplicity of the Prim aesthetic.
Decorative Stitching for Depth and Movement
Decorative detail stitching appears throughout the block in small but effective ways:
- The roof shingles use a plaid-style detail that adds charm and helps anchor the eye.
- The bird and leaves share a subtle detail stitch in the same thread color — proving that technique, not color, creates the dimension.
- The steps and trim are enhanced with small lines of stitching that hint at shadow and structure.
These details repeat a key principle of machine embroidery:
Threadwork can provide as much storytelling as the fabric itself.
Stabilizer and Hooping Setup
The Church block uses Heavy Weight Tear-Away Stabilizer, which supports the dense stitching and prevents wall sections and roof shingles from pulling inward as they stitch.
Hoop your fused fabric and stabilizer together, ensuring all four sides are evenly tensioned. Proper hooping creates a smooth canvas for dense fills and detailed line work.
Trimming and Finishing
Once stitching is complete, carefully remove the stabilizer and press from the back using a warm, dry iron. Trim the block using Lori Holt’s Trim-It™ Rulers, aligning the crosshairs with the church’s centerline for balanced borders on all sides.
Watch and Stitch Along
Follow along in the Block 7: Church tutorial on the Riley Blake Designs YouTube channel.
The video walks through each type of decorative stitch and shows how thread choices and technique add depth to this detailed block.
Share Your Progress
When your Church block is finished, share it in the RBD & M.E. Facebook Group. It’s a great place to see how others interpret this block and how different thread colors and textures bring out unique details.
You can also share your work on social media using #RileyBlakeDesigns, #RBDandMe, and #PrimStitchAlong.
Credits:
- Prim Quilt designed by Lori Holt of Bee in My Bonnet
- Machine Embroidery Files by Riley Blake Designs
Blog and education by Jennifer Long, Machine Embroidery Manager, Riley Blake Designs
