Monday, March 22, 2010

Mental Health Monday: What's Old Becomes New.

Lest you think that there is no actual prep work in the Jelly Roll quilt I'm about to embark on, let me tell you, that in fact, there is quite a bit of cutting that needs to be done before you get to sit down at the sewing machine. The photograph shows two of the pieces of fabric (of 32) that needed to be cut into 11, 9.25, 7.5, 5.75, 4, and 2.25 inch lengths. That took an entire episode of Elvis Costello Spectacle (the one with Neko Case and Ron Sexsmith) and 2 glasses of wine to complete.

I'm excited to get started on this next project. The fabric is top notch (high quality that feels fantastic under my fingers) and the colours and designs are modern. I think that is what I truly love about quilting. It is an old art form, but with the textiles available these days, quilters are able to put a completely new spin on patterns that make them relevant in the 21st century. One of the things the owner of the Oakville Sewing Centre said to me when I showed her my Crazy Quilt was that it was more creative than 95% of the quilts she sees in her shop. That got me fired up, and made me want to push myself to try new patterns and use bolder fabrics. I've done my share of traditional quilts - it's time to branch out and let my creativity have full rein. I also want to improve my skills and take some classes to learn new techniques that will allow me to take on more complex patterns and maybe even design my own quilts.

Not to worry... the Crazy Quilt is basted and ready to be finished off...pictures to come. I just need a few hours of quiet to get it done (crossing my fingers for tonight!).

2 comments:

  1. Reading your quilting posts has gotten me excited to quilt again. I'm not sure when I'll have a good chunk of time to do that, but I'm definitely motivated! :)

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  2. I love Neko Case! (and your fabric)

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