Sunday, August 22, 2010

Attack of the Scrap Basket!!

This is something I've wanted to do for years!  I've dealt with new scraps as I've finished projects and determined not to let my scrap basket overflow.  But yesterday was the day I decided to attack my backlog scrap basket.  I first looked into Bonnie Hunter's Leaders and Enders book to see what her common scrap usage sizes were.  I decided 2" strips and 2 1/2" and 2" squares were the most useful.  That said, I also thought about the 5" charm packs and the new patterns available for them.

Here are the before and after pictures:

Before

After
I've still got a ways to go but I figure I'll be all set to start some scrappy projects in September!

Happy Little Quilting Dance!!

Until next time,
Mavis

Monday, August 2, 2010

Another UFO finished!!

I am more shocked than anyone that I have actually machine quilted two quilts in the month of July despite a full work day and a few guests visiting the B&B.

This latest one in yellow and purple (love, love, love that combo!) was started a few years back when Margaret Miller taught her "Strips that Sizzle" class here in Victoria.  The instructions were to choose two colour families (mine of course were yellow and purple) and in those families choose three different values.  There are a number of different layout options for this quilt.  It was on my design wall for a LONG time until I was satisfied that the quilt was talking to me.  I wanted it big enough for a bed quilt but I didn't want to introduce additional fabrics to make more blocks.
The result was adding a purple square to the center of each 'pinwheel'.  I liked it and the decision was made!  And I was amazed as I stood back and watched the yellow 'lattice' making a secondary design.

About half way through making the quilt top, I decided this quilt would be for my dear mother-in-law suffering from Alzheimers.  She is now in long term care (after living with us for about 9 years).  I wanted to make her a quilt that would brighten up her room.  If this sunshiney quilt doesn't do it then I don't think anything will.  I made the label large enough for her to read where it came from.  I know she doesn't understand that I made it for her.  It was just important for me to express my love for her with a handmade quilt and I pray that somehow she can feel its comfort.

And here it is ....