REGULARITY...OVERRATED

So today's challenge was to quilt rocks in a linear format, in opposite directions continuously and not using a figure eight technique. ( yes, I love long sentences). They are irregular in shape just like real rocks. If you look  in the middle, you can see the thread buildup from where I traveled from one line to the next when going in the opposite direction, but I can live with that.

           In the drawing you can see how this is easily done by making a curvy line( left side), then completing that line going up to the top ( right side). It is OK to start the second line from top to bottom if you wish. So how can this be applied to a pieced top?

Hey, I think I like this! This is much easier than pebbles, yet still impressive if done all over, keeping in mind you will see more of the quilting on light or solid fabrics, unless you lighten the thread color on dark fabrics. ( not usually my taste) Anyway, I hope this inspires you to try it.

FINISHED TOP

This is the last of the Wednseday class projects for this year.I have combined two blocks from different patterns. The little block is 5 1/2 inches and works great as a cornerstone. The wonky block is 10 1/2 inches finished. It went together rather quickly. OK so no more quilt tops. I need to get quilting!!!

ZIPPER QUILT BACKING

I know this must look a little strange, but this is one of my favorite ways to piece a back. It is called a zipper back. Vertical or horizontal, it is fun. Pick two fabrics and make enough squares to alternate in a row top to bottom or side to side. Then sew each fabric to either side of the squares. I think these squares are 6 inches. Any size works. Try it!!

WOVEN RIBBONS

 There is nothing like finally completing a top to make your day. There is nothing like a great photo to show off the top(which this is not), but you get the picture! I can see my daughter rolling her eyes again at my odd sense of humor. That rose bush will not move oh well. I like the pattern and the fact any color or size print works well. I intend to quilt it using an all over organic meander, probably with a 40 wt King tut in a tan color. We will see if that really happens. I sometimes will change my mind.

SPIRALS, SPIRALS, SPIRALS

 It is easy to change the personality of a quilting motif. This spiral can be small and close as in the upper area, or open and whimsical as in the left lower or last just echo around it as on the right.. You can't help but love such a flexible stitch.

I NEEDED COMPANY

I needed a break from the "Ribbons" quilt so I deiced to try another doll to quilt challenge. The doll is from www.chestnutjunction.com and I am unable to pull up the picture. She does not have arms and legs like my girl but she does have the attitude. Of course the doll pattern is called"Ladybug". I think she will keep me company while I finish the Ribbons project.

MAKING PROGRESS

 The zebra block/idea is on hold. I love black and white, but what really gets me going is color....lots of color. This is a challenging block because of all the bias edges and areas that need to meet to keep the design true and clear. I think I am up to it.