Monday, November 25, 2013

One of the Nickel Trio

Here's another finish from my piecing marathon
I'm calling this 'One of the Nickel Trio' because I made two more blue nickel quilts at the same time.  Well, actually I made three more, but Nickel Quad just doesn't sound as nice!  And technically, one was from a pattern that already had a name.  So, Trio it is.

This one was really simple to put together.  Four twenty-five patch blocks, and a lot four patches on the edges and through the centers, all separated with sashing.  Really an easy way to use up nickels squares.

For the quilting, I used an all over star and swirl pantograph pattern.
'Two of the Nickel Trio' is currently on the frame, and here's a sneak peek of the quilting in progress
I was quite inspired with the quilt design on this one, so it's getting custom quilting.  Still have a long way to go!

Happy Quilting!



 

Friday, November 15, 2013

This Was Incredibly Fun!!

Created this awesome top yesterday afternoon--yes, just one afternoon!


Convergence quilt top

Based on Ricky Tims' Convergence Quilts book (affiliate link),


Convergence Quilts by Ricky Tims


this quilt was so easy and fun to put together - I want to do another! Just like going on an amusement ride for the first time, and running to get back in line to do it again.  Silly, I know, but it really was a lot of fun!

Here's a bit of the assembly.
My fabric choice was truly impulsive. 


fabric choices

It was a hey, I'll just use this and see what happens. 

Then the first step, cutting different width strips.


first step, cutting strips

Then sewing the strips together after shuffling them.


strips sewn together



The final convergence.


convergence top all together


And the convergence with borders.


Convergence top with added borders




How awesome is that??  

This measures approximately 37 inches square, perfect for another baby quilt. Added it to the tops that need quilting. Right now, I'm in line to get back on that ride!

Happy Quilting!
PS - for the finished quilt, see Pink Lattice


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Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Hanging Towels

I took a break from quilting yesterday to make some hanging towels.

I've made these in the past, and was due for some new ones, especially for the holidays.  If you'd like to make these, even as gifts, here's a tutorial.

Fabric requirements are minimal:  a 2 inch strip WOF, and a small piece approximately 12" x 4 1/2".  
A fat quarter would work just fine, but cut two strips 22" long
plus a small length approximately 4" long.  Also need a small piece of batting, 6" x 4 1/2".  And of course, a hand towel.

Cut the batting to 5 1/2" x 4 1/8".  On one 5 1/2" edge, measure over 1 1/8" from each corner, and cut a diagonal line from the bottom corner up to that measurement.
Place this batting piece on the fabric, which has been folded in half.  Cut the fabric using the batting as a template. 
I fussy cut these.
Cut the hand towel in half, then tri-fold the outer edges to the inside.
Pin in place, and stitch across the top edge with a scant 1/4" seam.

Place the back fabric right side down on the backside (the fold side), and stitch with 1/4" seam with the fabric on top.
Place the batting on the wrong side of the front fabric, and place it right side down on the front of the towel.  Stitch through all layers, with the top side up (so the batting doesn't catch on the feed dogs).
Bring both pieces together and pin.  To prepare the binding, press it in half lengthwise, then press each edge to the center.  Press again on the center fold.
Cut a 4" piece for the top edge, and stitch in place.  Trim to off the excess.
Cut the remaining binding in half, creating two pieces approximately 20" long.  Fold 1/2" of one end in

then apply to the edge of the hanger, matching the edge where hanger meets towel.  Pin in place.
Start stitching near the towel, tucking in any exposed edges.  Stitch to the end of the tie, turning the end back like before.  Repeat on the other side.  Tie and enjoy!


Happy Quilting!