I finished my journal quilt for March. The technique for the month was applique. I used hand applique for the stem, and machine applique (fused) for the leaves. The background was made with a leftover quilt block from this quilt. I have called this journal "Spring Comes to the Cabin" a reference to the red square of a traditional log cabin block and because, well, it looks a bit like a vine growing in front of a cabin! (or maybe a giant beanstalk?!?)
I must admit, of the journal quilts I have made, this is my least favourite. I think it's mainly because it doesn't have any particular meaning to me. I like the composition and the colours well enough, but don't really feel like I put much of myself in it. It could be partly to do with the lack of hand stitching. I am beginning to realise that hand stitching makes me feel more connected to a piece.
As well as the journal quilt, I have knocked up a few postcards for iHanna's swap. These are pretty experimental for me. The backgrounds are some Vilene which I dyed using transfer/disperse dyes. I used these quite diluted and the effect is maybe a little toooo subtle. Next time I think I will thicken to make them more paint like. Then I used the embellisher machine to integrate merino wool fibres, scrim and various sheers, and added hand stitching. I have backed them with a muslin stiffened with fusible Vilene. They are pretty sturdy so hopefully will stand up to the postal service!
On my ever-expanding "projects I want to tackle soon" list is making a quilt with solids,so I was quite excited at this weekend's Spring Quilt Festival at Chilford to find this lovely bundle of Kona solids. Even better, a copy of Roberta Horton's "An Amish Adventure" in the reduced section of one of the bookstalls. I can't wait to get started...but first I am must finish piecing my friend's baby quilt...sigh...
I like it, but you know me, ever plain and simple, or perhaps striking, which is what it is.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree about the hand quilting bit. Really does make you feel connected to the work in hand. That's why I hate passing on the Q4L quilts. I always kiss them before I package them up to wish them on their way and hope they'll be loved.
Viv - will you please stop finding cheap books. You know how much I hate it when you do that! This time in 4 weeks I'll be with Mum doing all the charity shops and NO, you can't come! LOL.
Hugs
xxxx
I love it Viv, the title fits it perfectly! Your postcards are gorgeous and boy am I drooling over those Kona solids, lol!
ReplyDeleteI love the journal quilt, Viv. The beanstalk outside the cabin is very creative. Hand quilting is slow, but rewarding, I agree. But think of how many more of those creative ideas will come to fruition if you simplify the process. That doesn't mean you have to give it up altogether.
ReplyDeleteI just returned from Amish Country in Pennsylvania. I visited the quilt museum in Lancaster that had all Amish quilts on display. What a treat....