How to Snowball Corners Beyond 45 Degrees: A Flexible Stitch-and-Flip Method
Ever notice how we typically snowball corners with small squares and lines at a perfect 45-degree angle? It’s a classic method, but what if you’re looking for something different? What if you want a corner that doesn’t quite fit the 45-degree mold? In this post, I’m going to show you a technique that offers more flexibility with your angles, using the stitch-and-flip method. Whether you’re aiming for a unique design twist or more freedom in your project, this trick is sure to help. Let’s get to it!
The Standard Technique
If you’ve made snowball corners before, you know the routine—placing a square right sides together in the corner of a larger piece of fabric, then draw a diagonal line across the smaller square [A]. Sew along that line, and trim a quarter inch away from the seam [B] before pressing it open [C]. This method is perfect for traditional snowball corners with a 45-degree angle.
But have you ever wondered what happens if you want to snowball a corner that isn’t at a 45-degree angle and is rectangular instead? Well, that traditional method won’t work quite as easily in those cases [C].
A Flexible Approach to Non-45 Degree Angles
Now, I’m excited to share a method I’ve been using that works for corners beyond the usual 45 degrees! First, you’ll want to draw the angle you’re aiming for directly onto the larger piece of fabric [D]. This will act as your guide. Normally, I’d recommend using the stitch-and-flip method with a bigger piece of fabric that you’d trim down, but this time, we’ll get more precise from the start.
How to Make Irregular Snowball Corners – Instructions
Prepare Your Fabrics
Start by cutting a smaller, rectangular piece of fabric that matches the length and width of the diagonal line you’ve drawn [E]. Both fabrics should be facing up at this point.
Fold and Press
Fold the smaller rectangular piece over so it lines up with the diagonal line underneath [F]. You might notice that some corners stick out slightly, but don’t worry. Once you’ve lined everything up, give it a quick press to create a crease. This crease will be your stitch guide in just a moment [G].
Stitch Along the Crease
Now, place your fabrics right sides together so that the diagonal lines match [H]. It will look wonky at this point but don’t worry, we know that if they were to matching up perfectly, it absolutely does not work. Stitch along the crease [I]. Before heading to the machine, I like to double-check that my corners will be filled properly when they’re opened, even if they don’t look like they match exactly right now.
After stitching along the crease, you’ll notice that the fabric points in the corner may not match perfectly. That’s okay! Now, go ahead and trim a quarter inch away from the seam, just like you would with a standard snowball corner [I]. Press the corner open, and you’re almost done. If there’s any extra fabric sticking out, trim it off for a clean finish [J].
And there you have it—a snowball corner that isn’t at a 45-degree angle! This method gives you the flexibility to play with different angles and shapes in your projects without feeling limited by traditional techniques.
Why This Method Adds Flexibility to Your Quilt Design
What makes this method special is the freedom it offers when designing your quilts. Instead of being confined to a 45-degree angle, you can now create corners that suit your vision. This can open up new design possibilities for unique quilt blocks, borders, and more. The stitch-and-flip technique gives you the precision needed to ensure a neat, professional-looking finish every time.
Flexible Stitch-and-Flip Method – Conclusion
This method for creating non-45-degree snowball corners is a game-changer for quilters looking to step outside the box. It’s simple yet effective, and it offers so much room for creativity. If you’re ready to add more design flexibility to your quilting projects, give this method a try and see where it takes you!
