This one has been a long time in the making. All that was left to do yesterday was sew my label onto my newest completed quilt. I spent Saturday afternoon doing all the machine quilting on the Birds and Berries lap quilt, so that I could bind it on Sunday evening. With all that work complete, sewing in the label was the last step.I pieced this quilt years ago, when I first started quilting - before I knew that all the pieces should be squared up before sewing them together. Of course, I know better now, so this would never happen again.
What that means for this piece is that I had to finesse the machine quilting between each of the squares. It made for an interesting day. After I did the "ditch stitching", I meandered through the borders, which was a lot more fun. I've learned a lot about piecing and arrangement since making this one. (Note to self: Next time, meander all over the quilt if the lines don't exactly match up!) See the little birds and strawberries on the fabric strips? I really liked these fabrics.This quilt is on its way to Wisconsin now. Rather than pack and hand carry it through the airport with my luggage, I'm sending it to myself at my mum's address. I will be gifting to my aunt. She's been more than just a sister-in-law to my mum - driving her to doctor's appointments or sharing a meal when Mum's not up to making dinner. Mum has had a few health problems lately, and my aunt has really gone above and beyond to care for her. She's been a good friend. I'm looking forward to seeing my aunt's reaction when I give this quilt to her. I sure hope she likes this small token of appreciation from Mum's eldest daughter.
All of your quilts are just amazing! Like I think I mentioned before, my mom quilts and I know all the long work that goes into those beauties....beautiful job!
ReplyDeleteJane
Your work is so amazing, I love the quilt, what a gorgeous gift to make your Aunt. It is very comforting to have someone help out with your Mom.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Margaret B
Quilting is way too difficult for me to do but I love them! One of my classes made one for me and signed their names and greetings on the back. It brought tears to my eyes!
ReplyDeletecher
Beautiful! We learn a bit with each quilt we make, don't we? And in my case, I re-learn a bit, too! Your Aunt will love it - what a lovely gift.
ReplyDeleteLove the bright happy colors, Donna. It's a beautiful piece and your aunt will be thrilled with your precious gift. It's so good when family can help each other. Glad you have her there for your mom.
ReplyDeleteDebra
Oh, she is just going to love it! Twyla
ReplyDeleteShe is going to be blown over! It's beautiful! Quilts aren't meant to be perfect. What is it the Amish say about quilts? Something about there should always be a speck of blood on back where your fingers bleed? Oh, what a wonderful thing you're doing!
ReplyDeleteBrenda
The fabrics are a lovely combination. The yellow binding really looks good. Your aunt is going to love it.
ReplyDeleteMinimiss