Dimensional Valentines

I wasn't looking, of course, but I came across this adorable mini quilt with a tutorial at Moda Bake Shop. The designer made it as a table topper placing the hearts in different directions. It was easier than I thought and just the right size.





The designer used a charm pack. Me? I used my scraps.

Can you see how they pop out? I need to get  the iron to some of the hearts. Everything gets a bit wrinkled when putting on binding.

There are probably a dozen uses for this unique technique. Hmm. That rhymes.














Yes, both sides are dimensional.




















Not all the hearts are in the same position on the block. In fact, one looks like it's trying to escape. But that's the way I like it. No formality for me.



Marcy

Table Topper--Class with Shelley Swanland

In case you are not noticing, I am finding some quilts I haven't shown you before. It's part of my reorganization of my quilts and sewn things. I need to clean out the guest room for fear anyone staying in there may be smothered by my loot.

Some of the smaller items have popped to the surface. This is from a class I took with Shelley Swanland about seven years ago. Her technique is unique. She is probably one of the most patient teachers and has an eye for color you wouldn't believe.

(Couldn't decide which picture was better so uploaded both. I lack camera skills.)

The green and wine color are batiks, but the background is cotton. I really like the color combo since it is almost like a neutral. Easy straight line machine quilting. The technique gave me some time to do some hand work that I love but the turned edges can be fastened with a sewing machine as well.



I am hoping in my reorganization attempt to find the huge jar of variegated threads that I put somewhere for safe keeping. Haven't you done that too?


Marcy

Quilt Doodles BOM for 2015

Quilt Doodles BOM 2015 Finish

Well it's a start. Once it is to the point of close to a flimsy, I feel good. I'm really liking each and every block more than I did before. The designs are sweet and basic, but you can add your changes and personality.  My button bowl is full and there's plenty of room for embellishing. By the way, the designer/pattern had  a different layout, far superior to mine. I try to keep my quilt treasurers small since I am running out of room.

There were about 16 of us who started this round of Quilt Doodles Designs BOM and I'm not sure how many have completed their quilt at this point. Some of the individual block pictures are on the Flickr group created by Quilt Doodles

Some were using the blocks individually for other projects. While others made changes to the blocks to suit themselves. One quilter changed the books in the September block to a Kindle--that's more her. She also change the dog to a turtle because that, too is her.

One quilter did her blocks in blue and yellow and they were stunning. With the blocks we had to work with, it is hard to imagine those two colors alone. It worked. It's going to be a beautiful quilt and can't wait to see it completed.

Did you know some quilts have feet?

While I am at it, Quilt Doodles Designs is offering a BOM for 2016. The pattern is free for that particular month. But if you miss it, no fear. She has the patterns of past months' in her shop for a small fee. The BOM for 2016 is a row-by-row quilt of pieced blocks with basic applique. This month's block is a reindeer.

That's my start to a new year and hope you have many new starts and finishes in 2016. Color, fabric and creating is in our blood.

Make some quilty goals for 2016. I've already broken one of mine. Which  you ask? One we all make: not to sew over pins.

Another resolution is to do it right the first time and put your ripper to rest. I keep telling myself to slow down, be patient and you'll love the outcome.

Here's best wishes for a great 2016 of quilting.

Marcy