This quilt has been called by a few different names in the past few years (waiting, still waiting, waiting for spring) but over the weekend I decided that it needs to be called "the happy quilt". Isn't that a fitting name?
Last week, the plan was to make 30 blocks for a lap size quilt, which would give me a finished quilt that would measure 62" x 74". I made the remaining 8 blocks and I thought I was done. But then....
I was rummaging around in my stash for possible backings and I came across this gem. It is an extra wide backing (it's called
picnic gingham from Connecting Threads) that would work perfectly for the back. The thing is, I didn't want to "waste" a 2 yard cut of extra wide backing on a smaller sized lap quilt. I knew that I would use the leftovers.... not problem there... but it still seemed silly. After MUCH deliberation and consulting with a few friends, I decided to make the top a little bit bigger. I added 6 more blocks, so I will end up with a 74" square quilt. (The backing was generously cut, so I could get away with it. Hurray!) I did think about going all the way to a king size and ordering more backing, but the math for the quilt top didn't quite work out. Square quilts aren't my all time favorite, but I think that it was the best option for this one. Technically, I don't think I lost sleep over the decision of how big to make the quilt, but I was pretty darn close. :)
This quilt has sashing and cornerstones, so it is going to take awhile to assemble....
...but at least I got the first row together. I'm sure that this quilt is going to be a favorite! I love how this one is turning out! (Because I know someone will ask, the pattern is
here.)
Also... over the weekend I finished another quilt, so I'm down to 4 WIPs! It was a very happy day! I will say, that it is NOT my goal to get down to zero WIPs. I did that once, right before my daughter was born, so I don't feel the need to do that again. Haha! But, being down to 4 (however short-lived that will be!) feels pretty amazing! I'm very excited to start a mess (quite literally, hahaha!) of new projects, too.
Happy Monday to you!
25 comments:
Wow, what a productive weekend. I do think that calling this quilt "the happy quilt" feels good. The backing is lovely and I love the fabric for the cornerstones in your sashing, too. Happy Monday!
I love that quilt! It's really bright and cheery!!!
I love that quilt. It looks like bits of washi tape. I too am trying to get through my WIP, I really really want to start some new stuff though
Love your quilt with the cute cornerstones! That is one of my favorite patterns of yours!
I love the quilt top and the backing. It is so happy looking!
Lovely quilt! Sure to be a favorite! I, too, am trying to finish my long list of wips. My list is much longer than yours though!
I love your quilt, she make me feel happy too!
This IS a happy quilt. So light and airy! I love the sashing choice and of course the gingham is perfect for the back. Makes me want to gets some gingham and tiny dots from Connecting Threads. I'm slowing working on my WIPS but getting anxious to start a new quilt! hee hee. mary in AZ
I am so in love with this quilt. SO in love. I can't wait to see it all finished!
We all need happy quilts in our lives! The name is very fitting for this one and it is amazing!!
This is absolutely a happy quilt! I love just about everything about it.
Perfect name and perfect backing for such a cheerful quilt!
I've used that backing fabric and had trouble with it showing through the light-colored fabrics on the front. You might want two layers of batting. Love the quilt.
This really is a happy quilt! I think I'm inspired to make a list of my own WIP. Well, maybe two lists: First, just the ones that I really want to finish.
There's an easier way to make sashing and corner stones. Instead of waiting till all the blocks are completed, sash two sides as you make them. Then, when you put the quilt together you only have to sash two outer edges. I've been doing this method for a few years now and it makes it go sew much faster.
Great name for your quilt and I'm *happy* I ran into you at QuiltCon and reveived a pincushion made by you! Thank you, Amanda Jean!
I, too, am working on wips, and making reasonable progress. I really want to make a Bright Birch Trees quilt, and who knows what else I might want to start when I get your new book! Sure wish you would come out to QuiltCon 2018 in Pasadena; I would love to take a class from you!
If I didn't know you had a quilt you're working on called "need more coffee", I'd think you had to remind yourself to keep caffeinating to get this much accomplished :) Love this current quilt--SO Happy!
That's gorgeous <3
Thanks for the link! Is it pieced tho, or appliqued? Cheers :)
LOL! It certainly is a Happy Quilt - in many ways. And I like the item #4 on your list!
Many thanks for the inspiration and motivation!
LOVE the brightness of this. Is this quilt appliqué?
love this! definitely a Happy Quilt - could almost call it Happiness Loading :)
Great backing fabric too.
Love the bright, happy colors! It's going to be an amazing quilt when you're done. That red check really amps up the happy, so calling it "The Happy Quilt" is perfect. Enjoy your being down to only four wips. No doubt, as soon as you begin starting that mess you're so excited about, the number will change drasticly. lol But isn't that part of the fun?
I need to make a list of my current works in progress....but I am kind of scared to put that to paper. But doing so would hopefully up the accountability factor! I am impressed with all you have crossed off!
Happy, happy, joy, joy. I appreciate the thoughts you shared on why you decided to make it bigger. Fun stuff
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