Confetti Stars

This cute little quilt was my 4th of July weekend project. Red and blue scraps with a touch of white and cream have a patriotic vibe, and those dots sure look like confetti to me.

This is my version of the Friendship Star block, adding corners to create a secondary design. Instead of the standard nine-patch, I cut 4½” x 8½” rectangles, then added 3½” HST on one corner. Smaller 1½” HST go on the opposite corner.

Then, I sewed the rectangles to the center 3½” square. This created some excess, which I trimmed off to 11½” blocks. Not the conventional way, but I think this made for fewer seams. It also gave more space between the stars, so my points are perfect.

After adding a narrow border of red mini gingham, I quilted in rows, using cream thread in decorative stitching. Binding is a red and blue stripe. Finished size for Confetti Stars is 47” square.

Halfway through the year, and this is quilt #27 completed.

Accuquilt dies used:
55160 Rectangles 4½” x 8½”
55006 Squares 3½”
55004 HST 3½”
55818 Bow Tie (1½” HST)

55017 Strips 2½”

Halfway Point

Butterfly plants--especially pretty this year

Half the year is gone already! That got me to thinking. I've accomplished quite a lot so far. Tried new things, enjoyed being with old friends, and relished spending time with my mama. Took care of lots of paperwork and cut through some red tape. Relaxed with and worked alongside my sweet husband. Spruced up our home, put things in order, and tossed clutter. Pushed negative thoughts and unnecessary crazy people out of my life. Carved out time for myself in the sewing room, read dozens of books, and got a sassy new haircut. The first six months of 2014 have been satisfying and happy.

Looking ahead, I have plenty of goals and ideas for the second half of this year. I'll continue my quest to simplify life and to focus on what's important. There's more home improvement on tap, and certainly a few adventures along the way. I've got people to see, places to go, and things to do. With days inbetween to reflect, dream, relax, create, and enjoy living. Who could ask for more?

Useful Notion: Whether you dive right in to your day or dip in one toe at a time, be sure to savor every little experience.

"I don't have everything, but I love everything I have!" ~Anonymous