Saturday, September 15, 2012

Broderie perse and the Union Square Block

.
This week's block from Grandmother's Choice is called Union Square. Before I started this block, I decided I wanted to have a more uniform look to the backgrounds for each block. I dug through my light colored batiks and came up with a couple of larger pieces. They will last me a little while. This block was fairly easy to make and Tom and I both like it the best so far. Of course, I had to remake the other two using the new background
This is the remake of the first one I did, Grandmother's Choice.
I remade Amethyst changing it up quite a bit.  I used the paisley for the center square as well as the points, instead of using the background fabric like I did before.  I like it better this way.  I also discarded the cutting instructions from before and redrew the pattern using measurements I knew would make the block the right size.  Now, all my blocks are 8.5" unfinished.  I am very happy I decided to use a light background with similar fabric.  I think the paisleys will really be the stars this way.
I also finished up the borderie perse project I was working on for the International Robin.  It is the last piece out there, and I am sorry I dragged my feet for so long.  When I first decided to do it this way, I wasn't really thinking about all the pieces I would have to attach.  I just wanted a certain look, and didn't take time to consider what I would have to do to accomplish it.  I started out with traditional buttonhole stitching.  Then, I realized this is supposed to be more of an art quilt, so I switched to free motion stitching for the smaller flowers.  I think it is a nice mix.  Above is a detail look at the upper left of the bigger piece below.
This piece will be winging its way to Frea in Scotland as soon as I can get to the post office next week.  I am sorry to see this robin end.  I have really enjoyed the variety of work in these small art quilts.  Maybe after a brief rest from robins, I will try and start another one.  Maybe we will do a flat robin this time.  If you are curious or interested, leave me a comment.
Tomorrow, I have a couple of small AAQI pieces to finish, then a new project I want to start.  I think tomorrow will be my 300th post.  I wish I had something to offer as a giveaway, but I can't think of anything right now. 
Until tomorrow, then.  Joyful quilting, everyone.
 

4 comments:

Impera Magna said...

I am loving your paisleys... you're going to end up with a cool quilt!

And your broderie perse... excellent! Frea is a lucky woman!

Sharon said...

You have such a great variety, what with the traditional piecing and the artsy, free form collage piece. Good work!

Venus de Hilo said...

That batik is a great choice for your block backgrounds, very nice with the paisleys. And that broderie perse: lovely and fun!

Would love to have you back for Improvi-Robin Season 2. Was going to start this month, but am too busy with desk projects and then traveling in October, then holiday season, so am now thinking after-XMas.

sheila 77 said...

Good work, as always, Miki. The Round Robin was great fun and quite challenging. Your latest addition above is just wonderful.