For the March blocks that I made the handles separate and of different fabric than the baskets. For my traditional block I used some wide bias tape that was close in color to my basket and for my funky black and white block I used black and silver quick bias that I braided together and formed the handle. (Needless to say I do not know how to follow directions or don't what ever the case may be) My thinking was that baskets and handles that are homemade are often made of different materials and coordinate but not necessarily match so that was the look I wanted.

Ann who has a wide rebellious streak and always is trying something different

I haven't gotten quite that far yet, but I am going to use Suzanne Marshall's method for the basket handle.

I'm doing mine that way too. I think it'll be easier to do the handle after some of the stems are on since they go under it. The very first thing I did was sew the basket on. I used a few smears of a fabric glue stick and boy did it keep the large piece nice and flat. Never tried it before! NA

since I'm only going to do the march block...and I was so inspired by suzanne marshall, I am doing her "take away" needleturn method. so I will be doing the handle and other over/under pieces as smaller units.
I mentioned before, wasn't crazy about applique because of doing some itty bitty pieces in the past...so what did I do first on the march block? the star :shock: ....duh!

yes, I've started that way. Not that I'm absolutely following the instructions, but they do seem to read that way, as the basket & handle are 2 different steps. Either way I'm sure will work. Florence

If I use the fabric I have picked out right now I will need to because they are two small chunks. But, yes, that I was considering doing the same.

I was thinking about doing the March basket in two pieces - the basket & the handle. Is anyone else doing it that way?