Mixed Links

I truly love experimenting with quilt blocks. Switching around pieces to create a different look is right up my alley. And I've been playing again.

I sketched out this block last year after seeing a similar vintage quilt online. I used some elements of the Star Links die and added a 2” square. I had to trim off triangles after sewing to get that odd shaped piece.

Lilac, aqua, and pink scrap prints are sweet for this table mat. I quilted using a scallop stitch and white thread. Mixed Links is 35” x 15” size.

Not all my test ideas make it into quilts, but they can be used for pot holders, cat rugs, or trying out quilt stitches. It's all good!

Dies used:
Blue Wren
6967 Star Link
6015 Strips 1½”
Accuquilt
55018 Value die (2” square)
55017 Strip 2½”

Springtime Cabin

Remnants again, this time for a colorful log cabin quilt.

I love the crisp white and light gray neutrals alongside all those bright happy prints! I used EQ8 to experiment with several layouts before choosing this one.

Using a ruler, I straight stitch quilted 3” grids diagonally across the whole surface with white thread. In keeping with the classic design, I added binding of gray and white stripes. Springtime Cabin is 49” square, a perfect lap size.

It's fortunate that I love to sew scrappy quilts, because there are bins full of remnants still hiding under my cutting table. As I told a friend recently, there's bound to be a law against throwing out completely usable fabric.  

Accuquilt dies used:
55349 Log Cabin BOB 12” finished
55017 Strip 2½”

Gin Blossoms

I've been playing again. Some of my best ideas come when I'm cutting scraps or straightening up the sewing room. Today's project is one of them.

I like to mix elements from seemingly unrelated dies to form new blocks. Chalk that up to creative curiosity and a love of puzzles. I've never been afraid to change a pattern or design to suit me.

This medallion table mat combines three dies: kite, triangle in square and drunkard's path. I've seen a similar design somewhere before but of course I changed the layout. Shades of rusty red, salmon pink, and stone make a pleasing palette. After adding a 3” border and a chevron binding, Gin Blossoms final size is 23” square.

I free motion quilted with ecru thread using a medium wave ruler in rows 3” apart, then rotated and straight stitched across the curves.

Winter is a natural time to rest and recharge. I highly recommend letting go of expectations, responsibility, and self imposed restrictions. Play a little and see where it takes you.

Accuquilt dies used:
55254 Kite 4” finished
55409 Triangle in Square 4” finished
55739/55743 Drunkard's Path 4½” (trimmed to 4”)
55032 Strip 3½”
55017 Strip 2½” 

Cappuccino Blues

This yummy quilt features creamy vanilla, rich brown, clear blue and navy prints. The design may be simple but it spotlights the fabrics so well. 

Each Economy block is sashed with cream and caramel swirls, which is also used for backing and binding.

All the piecing was done using Laney, my custom painted Singer 301. I quilted on the Janome with ecru thread, stitching an allover loopy design using a circle ruler.

Cappuccino Blues is 53” square. It certainly makes me want to snuggle up with a hot beverage and listen to soft blues.

I love sewing vintage blocks. This one was popular in the 1930's, and is still seen often today. Depending on fabric choices, it can look modern or traditional. I think Granny Hill and Granny Rose would both approve.

Accuquilt dies used:
55106 Square on point 3 11/16”
55147 Half square triangle 2¼”
55398 Quarter square triangle 4½”
55017 Strip 2½”

Cozy Cottage

Cozy Cottage, Useful Remnants 2022

Sweet vintage style prints are the perfect choice for this quilt. Soft aqua, green, lilac, and blue fabrics remind me of a country getaway spot or a beach house.

I used EQ8 to experiment with color placement before cutting the 12” blocks. This snuggly 48” throw was quilted with light gray thread, using a wiggly wave ruler. The backing is a cream vine design.

I may just brew a cup of tea and settle in with Cozy Cottage quilt and a good book. 

By the way, for those who are keeping track, my final 2022 project count was 50.  I was a busy girl!  

Happy New Year everyone!

Dies used:
Blue Wren 6958 Candy Star
Accuquilt 55017 Strip 2½”