Change is Good, Right?

I must confess...

The anticipated 2015 Applique Mystery Quilt is no where to be found! Last time I checked, it was still nicely stored up in my imagination; and it has not progressed past the initial stage that it was in from last year.

************

CHANGE - too little and life can be boring; however, too much of it and stuff can really get in the way of creative progress. Anyways, that's how it feels to me.

I still want to design the project that resides in my head; however, the desire to go to that next step has eluded me. And then, when too much time passes by; the gears don't seem to want to restart.


So, in order for me to get back to my sewing room and do some actual sewing/quilting, I figured perhaps, small goals would enable this forward motion a chance to flow.

And because I don't particularly like unfinished projects hanging around; feel if I could get those few UFOs done from 2014, I'd have more energy to design new ones.

I will begin with my pieced string blocks. And make it into a fun BOM with a twist. One that allows you to make one block at a time into a mini quilt; or make and save the individual blocks to create a wall or larger size quilt in due course.


MY GOALS FOR THESE BLOCKS

1.) Create an applique design that suits the color theme presented in the current blocks.
2.) Perhaps add some other ideas to make pieced string blocks without the applique. And which, could be made as filler blocks to make a wall or larger size quilt.

SO....
From these, if anyone wishes to follow along; and make them, I will be posting on my other blog: Quilt Strings when they are available.

FEBRUARY:
Chocolate Hearts - available now and free for this month

CHOCOLATE HEARTS

Other block titles in the works:
      Country Cabin
      Flower Patch
      Outdoor Adventure
      Sail Away


Quilt It With Me...

So thank you for those that have requested to be part of the 2015 Applique Mystery Quilt. When I do get to that place that the project is ready to share, I will email those on the list. I, however, cannot say at this time when that will happen. Thanks for your interest and patience.



Cheers!

My Mystery Quilt Layout

As this Applique Mystery Quilt Along is soon to be completed, here is how my quilt is shaping up; as I prepare each lesson to share with you.


COMPLETING THE QUILT TOP

With the applique blocks and pieced blocks ready and sewn together to make up the quilt top; here is how adding borders will complete the project, and update the look.


BORDER ONE
Using a narrow border, in a darker color; works well to add a framed look to the activity in the blocks; like a frame on a painting. The blue-green fabric was also used on the domino framed blocks.

BORDER ONE

BORDER TWO
The second border provides the surface area needed to apply my chosen swag applique; and give it added interest on this busy quilt.

I chose to use three colors (blue-green, yellow, and pink) on the domino frame and also bring it to the outer borders. My blocks needed to be brightened up and the pink definitely provided that intensity.

BORDER TWO

BORDER TWO--APPLIQUES
I wanted to add interest on this border; and so applied a swag applique to help showcase the handiwork of all the appliques used on the quilt top.

Here, I used a yellow; and instead of the bright yellow used in the domino framed blocks; I decided to use the same yellow as was used on the sun applique.

APPLIQUE DETAIL ON BORDER TWO

BORDER THREE

There are always decisions to make as one builds a quilt. Here were a few good reasons to consider adding an additional border:

1.)  It was only after I has added the swag applique, that I realized I had cut the strips for border two; at two and one-half inches, instead of the three inches wide they should have been. (That's what happens when I want to quilt late at night.) So I had less space between the applique and where the binding would be added. What should I do about this?

2.)  I found I had indeed brightened the look of the quilt; however, now it was just way too pink for my liking. So if I added a darker color, it should bring down the intensity of the pink. (Your computer screen may make this border look more red or orange. But it is very pink!)

3.) I was considering adding piping or lace, on the outer edge, so wanted to have more distance between the swag on this border two and the binding. And I didn't really know how wide this border should be, either; so made it two inches wide, so I could make this decision later.

4.) As a general rule, it is a good tip to have the ability of trimming the final border narrower, if desired; and to ensure it is even and has square corners, when trimming all three layers. Here, I would have possibly cut into my swag applique, if my quilt needed extra squaring up, before adding the binding.

So, here is how my quilt looks with the extra border in brown:

BONUS: BORDER THREE

I decided that I really did need to add an extra border; and this color will provide a better background for my chosen binding fabric.  So, my quilt will be a few inches larger than the original pattern indicates.

The final post on this mystery quilt, will show up in a few weeks, when the last lesson has been posted on the website. Thanks for coming along on this quilt journey with me.

Happy Quilting....

Creating Unique Quilt Labels Tutorial

Everyone knows a label on a finished quilt is how we know who made it and when. But, do we always find the time to create one and stitch it onto our own projects? Perhaps not....

I like using my computer to design my own quilt labels to fit each project and make them each unique. As one can easily add color, insert images, fancy text, and make it all small enough to fit on a label. Editing is quick and easy; and when one is finally satisfied with the end result, off it goes to the printer.

Illustrations and Photos shown in this tutorial are from the Applique Mystery Quilt Along—2014 project.



APPLIQUE MYSTERY QUILT ALONG LABELS

 

 

QUILT LABEL TUTORIAL INSTRUCTIONS

 

1.      To begin, consider what you’d like to write or draw on your quilt label.

2.      Open a word document and set up a table with several rows and columns. As you plan out your design you can add more; or delete any rows or columns you do not need.

3.      If you select “no borders” these will not show when the label is printed. (These borders are visible in the illustration below, as blue dots.)

 

LABEL IN A WORD DOCUMENT

 

4.      On your page, provide white space around all sides of your label, so you have room to cut around the label to allow for seam allowances.

5.      Play with different layouts, fonts, and images if needed, so you can see what works best for the label information.

6.      Once the design is ready, check it over for errors and do any editing to finalize it before you send it to the printer.

7.      Insert your sheet or cut piece of PhotoFabric into the paper tray and print your label with the best quality ink setting.

8.      Once printed, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare it so it is ready to work with.

9.      I find the type of fabric used in this product will stretch out of shape as it is stitched onto the quilt back. One way to keep the edges straight; and looking good once applied to the quilt back, is with added borders. (I prefer to add at least two borders onto the printed label portion. This allows the label to keep its shape.)  

 

CLOSEUP OF STITCHING ON LEFT SIDE OF A LABEL
 

10.  Embellishing the quilt label, you may add applique pieces that are made specifically for the label or are extras from your project, if desired. [examples below]

11.  A quick way to prepare and also eliminate extra hand-sewing, is to use the selvage edge from fabrics to make the border strips. (If you don’t use selvages, allow an extra width to fold back raw edges on all four sides.)

 

RISK AVOIDANCE: If iron is too hot; it will scorch the label fabric. To be safe, use a pressing cloth when pressing the seams and applique embellishments on your labels.

 

12.  When adding each strip that goes around the label portion, place the raw edges together with right sides together; and stitch on the top and bottom strips, using at least a quarter-inch seam allowance. Press open.

 

ADDING FABRIC STRIPS TO LABEL: TOP AND BOTTOM
 

13.  Trim sides to where you want your seam allowance. Then add the side strips.

 

TRIMMING OFF EXTRA ON SIDES OF LABEL
 

ADD STRIPS TO SIDES OF LABEL

PRESS SEAMS -- FRONT SIDE VIEW

VIEW OF BACK SIDE OF LABEL

14.  If only adding the top and bottom strips; to hide the raw edges, you will fold back both sides. (Having the top and bottom strips will give it enough rigidity to keep the label straight as you hand-stitch is onto the quilt.)

15.  If you do not want any raw edges, cut the two side strips about one-half inches wider; and after stitching onto the label section; fold these two raw edges under.

16.  The label has added color and will not stretch out of shape; and is ready to hand-stitch to the back of the quilt.

17.  One last step: is to stitch the label to the back of your quilt. J

 

EXAMPLES OF OTHER LABEL RESULTS

 

 

FINISH TWO EDGES WITH PURCHASED BINDING

 

SHOWN: BACK OF LABEL USING BINDING

USING APPLIQUES TO EMBELLISH THE LABEL



SELVAGES USED ONLY ON SIDE STRIPS; TOP AND BOTTOM ARE FOLDED BACK



TWO SELVAGED-EDGE STRIPS USED; TOP AND BOTTOM ARE FOLDED BACK.
(THIS LABEL WAS DAMAGED WITH THE IRON, SO I MADE ANOTHER ONE.)

 

LABEL USES TWO SELVAGE-EDGED STRIPS - TOP AND BOTTOM.
RAW EDGES ON BOTH SIDES ARE FOLDED BACK.

 

 



FINISHED LABEL - TEXT AND IMAGE CREATED IN WORD

 

 

Participants in the Applique Mystery Quilt Along may use the quilt label provided along with the weekly lessons on the website. If you can open it with MS Word on your computer, you should be able to type in your name; and change any colors, if desired.

Hope these examples have inspired you to try creating your own unique labels for all your quilting projects.

 

Happy Quilting....

 

Domino Frame Blocks

Only two more applique designs to complete before this quilt project is ready to piece together. I have chosen to use a fancier block for these remaining two blocks. They are 9.5" x 9.5" unfinished and will fit into the final two spaces on the quilt layout.

QUILT LAYOUT--FINAL BLOCKS

DOMINO FRAME BLOCKS

This domino frame block is used in Weeks 12 & 13. It is the same block construction; the difference will be the chosen applique design. Week 12 is shown below.

To create the domino frame, you will see I've used three bright colors and a flat piping to frame the center of this block. These colors are taken from my border fabrics and I hope will provide a good contrast to the other colors used in the pieced blocks; and liven up the scrappy look of my quilt. You may select colors from your border fabrics or from blocks within your quilt, as desired. The piping is optional. 

WEEK 12 BLOCK

THE DOMINO FRAME

The instructions on the pattern page give you all the sizes required for the domino frame. Here you can see that I have sewn two B-C-D sections together; and two A-B-C-D-A sections together. Placing them around Piece E (not shown below) will create the domino frame block. Then I've added an applique design to the center of this block to complete it.

CONSTRUCTING DOMINO FRAME BLOCK

THE FLAT PIPING

If you want to add flat piping to the edge of the center of this block, cut strips 1" wide and the length of each side. (6.5" x 4 = 26" total length needed) Fold the strip in half with wrong sides together. Press. With all raw edges lined up, stitch through all three layers. Sew your stitching line just under the 1/4" measurement so it will be covered when the domino frame is added. 

ADDING FLAT  PIPING

VARIATIONS

For variations, you may choose:

1.) To omit the domino frame and use a plain piece (9.5" x 9.5" square) for this block; where you will add the applique design to the center and embellish as you wish. You  may add creative stitches, rickrack, ribbon, bias tape, piping, etc. to add interest to this block. (Block is shown below in pink/green print.)

2.) To replace the domino frame with plain strips to add to the center block. (Block is shown below with pink/green print in center and a pink border.)

3.) Or wait until the blocks have been stitched together and add creative stitching to the edge of Piece E.

VARIATIONS

EMBELLISHMENT IDEAS

You may construct two domino frame blocks and add next week's applique when it is available; or prepare the pieces to be ready for next week's lesson. 

Once these final two blocks are completed, you are ready to assemble all the blocks as per the quilt layout. Then step back and take a look. Colorful, right! At this time, if you wish, you can rearrange your blocks to see if any pieces look better in a new arrangement.  

Posts coming in April:

1.) After placing your finished blocks on your design wall, allow time to view your work before making final adjustments, (if any). I'll share with you a post on making a quilt label.

2.) I'll reveal my finished blocks and show you how I rearranged them. There's always room for change, and you can decide if you want to place the blocks as per the quilt layout; or one that suits the look of your own project.

3.) A post on tips and final construction processes, where I deem necessary. 

Happy Stitching!!

That Scrappy Block!

To have a group of quilters start out with the same quilt pattern, and then allow creativity to take it the rest of the way, is my idea of a great journey in quilt making. The added twist to heighten this adventure was to provide only black and white images; that would magically be transformed into beautiful renditions of the story being told. I look forward to seeing your finished quilts!!

Another option... was to add variations, so these quilts could be even more unique to the story being stitched into fabric; and allow quilters of all skill levels to create a beautiful quilt.  So we could choose to do a nine-patch or a four-patch or a plain five-inch block or a scrappy block. Or maybe even try something else, not suggested here.

In previous posts, I've shared the nine patch and the four patch. The plain block really doesn't need much explanation; except to say that there are many gorgeous fabrics that could be featured in this quilt; a few examples: beautiful floral designs; kid prints, or vivid hand-dyed fabrics. Any theme would compliment the appliqued blocks.


GOING SCRAPPY
Scrappy is a great technique to use when you have a heap of beautiful scraps waiting to be featured in your next quilting project. They may not look like much tossed and crumpled in that drawer or basket; however, they do create some interesting blocks, when used. With the huge variety of patterns, books, and designs available; there really is no excuse for us, not to use these great leftover fabrics.

For this quilt along, I've decided to use these scrappy blocks in my own quilt; and use the nine-patch block to create a smaller version of this pattern. (Hopefully, this layout will be featured in next week's post.)

So to make this scrappy block, here are some tips:

1) Use a variety of shapes, sizes, patterns, and colors to make the blocks interesting.
2) When stitching together these odd shapes; it works best if you press before adding the next piece.
3) Do not worry about placing colors next to each other, that we generally think don't work together.
4) Trim extra length off the last piece added, before adding the next piece.
5) Continue adding pieces until you are nearly at the size required.
6) It is generally best if wider pieces are added on that final round around the block.
7) Once large enough, use your rotary ruler to trim it to the size required.
8) Seam allowances do not need to be a perfect quarter inch.
9) None of your ten blocks need to look the same. Select a variety of fabrics to create a unique set of blocks.


Taking the four variations that I provided in the quilt along lessons, the plain block needs no instruction as it is a five inch square of fabric. However, you could select a specific theme to help tell this quilt's story.

Let's check out the fourth option: the scrappy block -- that I'd like to show you, in case you find this one more difficult to construct. Here we can go as wonky or perfectly spaced, as desired. If you'd rather make a more perfectly balanced scrappy block, you could opt for the standard log cabin block, or go wonky and stitch random widths as you go around the block.

This scrappy block can be started with a square or strip of fabric. You can continue around the block, in log cabin fashion; or add pieces to random sides, place them at random angles, or use pieces that already have more than one piece joined together. Just remember to trim your pieces, to avoid adding bulk, as you work around the block.


GETTING STARTED

1. First, begin with a pile of scraps: in squares, rectangles, strips, or previously joined pieces....
2. Start with two pieces of fabric, placing them with right sides together; and stitch them together. Here you do not have to make the perfect quarter-inch seam.
3. Once stitched, press so both fabrics are open. It is best to press each time a new piece is added, to make sure the block lays flat. 
4. Take another scrap piece and add to the first two.
5. Continue in this matter, going around and around, until you have a piece that is the size your require.
6. Place your rotary ruler on top and measure to make sure your piece is large enough. 
7. Then trim any edges off that are not needed. You can place your ruler on the block, in any direction; only be careful to cut it to the five inch piece, that is required.

PILE OF SCRAPS

STITCHING AROUND THE BLOCK

TRIMMING THE FINISHED BLOCK 

I had sewn my block to the point where it could have been a six-inch block. This required careful placement of the ruler, to get enough of the outer strips to be more than a sliver in width.

HERE ARE FOUR OF MY TEN SCRAPPY BLOCKS:

    

My Motto: If you are not enjoying the process, then change it!! 

Do what you can, how you can, and when you can. Quilting has that versatility, built in! 

As you continue each week adding your own style to each block, select those techniques that best suit your skill level; or challenge yourself and try something new. 

Thank you for your comments, sharing your quilt blocks on Facebook, letting me know what you think, or sending me questions when you need help. Enjoy the process!!

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If you don't receive my email that contains the link to the next lesson; you'll be able to find it on the website. For those of you on the group mailing list; an email will be going out on January 25, to let you know when the next lesson is available. (Anyone that has joined between January 18-24 will be added to the list.) 

Then, the final addition to the group list will be done on February 1. An upgrade will be available to allow those that want to stay in the quilt along; but can't seem to get the email or have other difficulties will get direct access to the weekly lessons. This is open to all participants that join between December 24, 2013 and January 31, 2014, but is still optional. (There will be a small fee; but it includes a bonus offer!)

  

Please note: If you post a question and don't give me a way to send you a response, I will not be able to assist you. If you don't have my email, visit the about me page on my website. 

....

About the Appliques

In the Applique Mystery Quilt A-long, it's all about the appliques...


Knowing now, that we will create the pieced blocks in a variety of ways; either doing them all at once, or one per week; along with an appliqued block. Let's get to the applique mystery....

It is an applique mystery, because we will be discovering each applique block, one by one, and also where it fits on the quilt top. At times, it may seem like we are working on images that do not relate to each other; however, they are all connected with events or objects we use and/or wish to obtain in our life's journey.

Fabric colors can be chosen in a number of ways: using what's available in our fabric bin; colors we love, colors that match our applique image, or colors that bring in an imaginary theme. [For example: a spotted purple elephant, or everything from one color family.]

The main goal is to not fuss over colors; but to enjoy making each block with the fabrics we have; and remembering it is a scrappy quilt. All these blocks will be brought together when we frame them, with our borders.


APPLIQUE BLOCKS
I like fused machine applique; and if you have not tried this method before, you can check out my two free patterns at my Craftsy store, to give it a try.


Finishing the Edges
Purpose: To stitch around each applique piece to securely attach it to the background fabric.

This can be done with a blanket stitch, applique stitch, or zigzag stitch. For small pieces, I prefer using the zigzag stitch. You can use a combination of stitches on an applique block or select only one stitch type.


Thread Colors
Here, you can choose a number of options: use thread to match the applique piece, one color on all the applique pieces for the complete project, or both. I have used all of these. For the one thread color option; I've used black, dark green, gray, white, and olive green. 


Type of Fusible Web
If you haven't tried any before, check to see what is available in your area. I have always loved using Steam-A-Steam 2; however, with the problem of availability, I had to change. The product I currently use is WonderUnder by Pellon. I had a few issues with it; but have since come to terms with this option.

If you have any questions or suggestions on the applique portion, comment below or reply by email.



Other Notes
Many have had difficulties getting the password to work; or had downloading issues, so I hope we can soon all get this quilt along going.... so we start making our quilt blocks.

I have sent the first email letter (Jan.11), with a new link to a new downloading page; and hope that I can get everyone on this mailing list. Once the quilt along is closed to new participants, it will be easier for me to send a few emails to individual people, if there are still missing lessons, not received.

I will update the pattern download; and hopefully, this will help anyone that joins after January 12, a better way to get to the lessons; until they start receiving the weekly email letter that provides the links to new lessons.

I believe if a pattern is updated; a notification is sent to previous purchasers. But if not, email me; and I will get you on the correct webpage. This new webpage link will be available and stay available for everyone that joins; after Jan.12; until closing on Jan.31. (So no more password issues.)

I've planned on adding all the new addresses for each week, to the mailing list; at the time each new lesson is send out; however, I know that you want to start as soon as possible. This may be helpful.

Once, I get the email letter sent out to include anyone that has joined up over the weekend, I'll also update the pattern download. If anyone that joined between Dec.24 and Jan.10; did not receive this email letter; please email me. I will add you to this next mailing or send you the link, to the correct page.


Happy Quilting.....
Darlee

Just Add Color

Almost time to begin my new adventure.... 

Life’s A Journey—Applique Mystery Quilt A-Long—2014

Are you ready to create your own stunning wall-hanging quilt? Then… bring along your imagination, sewing skills, and a basket of fabric scraps or pieces; to unravel this online applique mystery and enjoy a captivating quilting experience, with a delightful group of quilters, that have joined—from around the world.

This 17-week project will enable you to create a unique and special quilt that should evoke special memories to cherish—whether it is for yourself or someone you love.

It is my hope, that this project will be a nice distraction from winter; for anyone that finds the many months of cold and snow, a complete drain on the living—really only perfect for quilting!!

For new information and to follow along; I plan to use twitter to post when new things are happening; and adding to my blog to make the weekly lessons come to life. Feel free to join me; to see what's new. 

To join, check out this adventure with the pattern download at my Craftsy store. Particular information and finished blocks will only be available to those that have joined; it closes 31-January-2014.

APPLIQUE QUILT BLOCKS

Everything we experience brings us different results, as we journey through this lifetime—some are happy; some are sad; some belong to us; some only to others; and some we all share in common.

Therefore, each applique was chosen to evoke either a special memory or dream, in our minds; and then transform these chosen black-and-white images into colorful quilt blocks. If nothing significant translates, find an image with colors you love.

When selecting colors; I suggest:

1. Using lighter colors for the background to allow the applique to standout on the block. (Or vice versa, if you like lighter images and a darker background.)
2. Focus on the design--week by week--and create the perfect applique with colors that bring forth the intended memory it evokes, one block at a time.
3. This will create the ultimate scrappy quilt in colors that bring each design to life.

JUST ADD COLOR

As a child, I loved coloring books. Those black and white pages were just waiting to be transformed by creative imagination and a box of crayons, each time they were opened.

Therefore, I have taking this concept a step further with a grown-up twist…using applique and quilting. By replacing those coloring book pages and crayons with a scrappy quilt pattern and colorful cotton fabrics; bringing along that same creative imagination to create a delightful scrappy wall-hanging quilt.

As this is the last post for 2013, I wish you all a blessed and Happy New Year…2014!!

Join me for the first installment of this scrappy applique mystery quilt a-long on Sundays, beginning January 5, 2014. Check back then; to begin this creative journey.

Cheers... 

Evaluating 2013

ALMOST TIME FOR A NEW YEAR TO BEGIN.... 

In only a few weeks, it'll be time to re-evaluate our progress for 2013. Funny really, that so much fuss over the end of 2012 was made; and now it's almost 2014!! Am hoping that a better world for all... is still possible... for the peoples of Earth!! Still a dreamer....


So, my own evaluation begins....

Blogging...
DIDN'T WORK: After a whole year of trying out new ways and places to blog, I think I'm coming back to this one. I really do enjoy designing the layouts and adding posts; however, to have high speed and unlimited internet use are neither of my options, at the present time.

SOLUTION: So.....I've decided to rejoin Twitter to have one place to share when I add new blog posts, patterns, and ideas, etc.; and not put pressure on myself to feel discouraged with my costly and limited internet service provider. (A worthy goal for a new year coming soon.)


Sewing/Quilting...
PROBLEM: My sewing machine lost its ability to wind up bobbins; and as I couldn't spare it, in order to get it fixed, I needed another solution. Maybe in the spring, it can be repaired.

SOLUTION: So... I found a way to wind them up manually. This was really helpful. Then, the other day, I finally had opportunity to see if another sewing machine would be able to fill some bobbins; and it worked. Now, I have twelve full bobbins in three different colors, ready for more projects. I had really forgotten how a full bobbin looked; as hand winding is tiresome, but it works.


Room Layouts...

DIDN'T WORK: I still love moving around the furniture--however, I generally need extra muscle power to get it done, painlessly . So that has to fit into the plan. In need of consideration were the living room and the sewing room.

 

With the living room, it was too cold in winter for my computer/office desk area. And, upstairs in my sewing area, it was too hot and the line-up of cooling fans had priority there.

ONE--
LIVING ROOM:
SOLUTION:
Thank you to my sons, for their strength and patience. Now, walking into my living room, it feels like one is stepping into another house. It is so refreshing to see this arrangement working. My office desk is now near an inside wall, and I can view the TV without turning around; the two large pieces of furniture are in new locations; and those ugly, whitish drapes are finally gone!!

RESULT:
It was after much deliberation, stalling, and procrastination.... that my living room now has a new appearance. That day, I had the extra muscle power and the plan in place for this new arrangement.


TWO--
SEWING ROOM:
I had ample opportunity to try new room arrangements; but it didn't work for long. Each time it felt better; but it just wouldn't last! The two giants to cope with here were: the spare mattress set and the sloping ceiling. It was my sewing room that saw the most changes. Well, you know... if it doesn't work you find another way!!

SOLUTION:
So... after closing up cracks around the small doorframe that resided in a corner area behind the bathroom that let in unwanted residents; a carpet cleaning, and removing two shelves in the slanted ceiling cabinet areas; it was time to put back the furniture.

RESULT:
The cabinet area now fits my white banker's boxes, and other stuff; and the mattresses are set against one of the slanted walls, away from the cabinet doors. This got rid of the clutter of boxes, and a better place for the mattresses. And the carpet is so much easier to vacuum, each week.

I really love this arrangement: there's an area for the cutting table and fabric shelf; an area for the sewing machine; an area for my laptop, when needed; and space for an antique sewing machine. The ironing pad also utilizes the same space as the cutting mat. My three white storage towers sit in front of the mattresses; and can easily be moved, when our special little guests have a sleepover.



I look forward to sharing my progress of new projects with you, as internet time permits. Best wishes to all; and may we all have time to dream up a list of worthy goals for 2014!!

Now, just to make that snow melt... and get more outdoor time!! That wish may just take some time to come. Merry Holidays!!

Tweet Tweet

I realize that many times over the past few years, I have had a lack of desire to quilt and/or blog, so if you have not seen me lately, it's because I was busy working on projects that were not quilt related.

Recently, my attention was redirected to working on a project for my sister. She wanted birdhouses, but I couldn't figure out what to do, so in the meantime, I dug out a book I've reviewed in 2010, "Nature's Elegance" by Jan Kornfeind. This was a design I really liked and am happy to have the opportunity to create it now.  This project is also the first quilt that I actually have completely finished, since doing my 2010 Quilt Challenge. 

Fabrics

Quilt chosen:  "From A Baltimore Garden Wall Hanging"

There are two quilts in this book that have birds on them, and so I was able to take elements from both projects. The first was the applique design and border choices, and the second from the other quilt was choosing to use a darker background fabric for the center block, instead of a cream print fabric.

I used a dark green thread to do the applique stitching around the applique pieces. Then, using a darker blue thread to do shadow quilting around the design; and some stitching in the ditch around the borders.  

Placing the Applique Pieces

Closeup of the Vase and Stems

Closeup of the Bird

Complete with Borders

The quilt design measures 28" x 30" in the book. Since I used fat quarters for the quilt top, not including the applique, I only needed to adjust the width of the outer border. This made the finished quilt size at 26" x 28". I also used two tiny square buttons for the bird's eyes. These I stitched on with orange thread to make them look more like real eyes.

 Finished Quilt

Happy Quilting
Cheers,

Colourful Spools

The Project: Runaway Thread

--PART THREE--

As one would normally create the blocks that make up the quilt top first, and then add the borders, this project allowed for a change in this process. This pattern works... no matter in which order you wish to do things....  So even though instructions still need to be followed, no one will know you changed things up.

I just happened to do it in reverse, as the blocks for the border are smaller and more of them. So you can see, that my wish was to finish this quilt top successfully, rather than getting tired and being stuck with an unfinished top.

Main Block Construction

 

These begin with 6.5" background fabric squares. Then adding scrappy squares to create the spool. When you look at the overall design, the spools in the border are created with the light fabric and the center spools with the scrappy fabrics.

To complete the blocks, they are created the same as the border blocks; however, the fabrics used are just done in reverse. The scrappy fabrics will create the spool, after assembly.

Adding Scrappy Blocks

Cutting Off Extra Fabric

Block Placement

Ooops... Fixing A Dilemma!

Only at this point, did I discover that I had three of these pieces...

 when I actually needed three of these pieces...

If I had not cut off the extra fabric on the blocks, all I would have needed to do was separate the larger scrappy piece and be done. However, since I had cut them, I had to adjust these blocks by thinking up a way to do that...

Not having enough leftover fabric to just cut three more blocks, I decided to add the same background fabric, creating a seam where there actually shouldn't have been one.

Replacing Corner

Now that I had make the adjustments, I could have stopped there. However, to make it look like less of an error, I did the same for all four corner blocks, and the two center blocks on the left and right sides of the quilt top.

Adding Balance at Side Center

Center Blocks Complete

Now, here one could have just added several plain borders until the size was what you wanted. However, the pattern is designed with a more creative touch... a unique block border creating a reverse effect from the center blocks.

Don't you agree, that simple borders would not have been as pretty as this one, here!

Fancy Border Added

I definitely enjoyed this project. There are lots of fun projects in this book. And, since I have more scrappy squares I'll need to revisit the list and see which one I'd want to make next time.

Now, if one wanted this quilt a bit larger, adding additional borders with fabric strips, would be simply easy. The image below shows how is fits on a queen size bed. It wouldn't take much to make it the proper size, if one desired. As I am leaving it as a quilt top, that could still be a possibility.... 

Finished Quilt Top

 

Runaway Thread -- (66" x 78")

 

 

 

Hope you enjoyed this project... until next time, have fun and do something creative!! For more on the book or the scrap therapy system, visit these links.

 

Happy Quilting,