Bears Paw Block

These can be set either with or without a small sash between the "paws", and can be done with toning square "pad" and triangular "claws", or the same fabric for both.   As my blocks are going to stand alone, rather than become a quilt entirely comprised of one block, I've set mine without sashes between and the paws all in one colour, inspired by a quilt I saw in one of mum's books where all the individual paw blocks were done this way but each block of paws was a slightly different colour, which looked wonderful.

I've used the foundation method again for this one.  I like it and its accurate.  Plus I must have been planning to make this in the dim and distant past because when I got out the book, the foundations were already stored in the book, all drawn out ready.   This block came from Nancy Mahoney's Quilt Block Bonanza:  50 Paper pieced designs.  I have a couple of other blocks on the list that may come from this book as well. 

Each quarter of the block comprises two units; the top row of claws and a unit that has the main pad and side claws on it.  It was quite easy to piece and only took a morning to do.  The worst part was getting all the units lined up neatly so they all matched. 

Whilst I was cutting and piecing this I did find a disappointing thing though.  The black striped yardage, which is one of the three "proper" quilting fabrics that formed the inspiration for this quilt, appears to be woven off grain.  I wasn't impressed with that.  I expect better for £13.50 a metre. 
Hopefully it won't distort too much when I take the foundation out.  Which I probably won't do until I have the placement decided for all the blocks.