Patchwork
Patchwork is something I have been wanting to get to grips with for quite some considerable time. My problem is not with the stitching but with the cutting. I have the rotary cutter the pressing board and the cutting board but each time I have tried to use the rotary cutter things have gone a tad wrong. I have lots of scraps that need using up and I want to make my own quilts so I recently sent off for a Dresden plate template and I am going to have a play. The reason behind going for the Dresden plate design is because it can be worked a little at a time and be something to do that is not going to take up a large amount of space - I can cut out the pieces and then work up the wheels a little at a time either by hand or on the machine and then when all the plates are worked they can be mounted and stitched, padded then backed and quilted. A little bit at a time for when I have not got much time and when time permits working as quickly as I can.
I have also started a subscription to a part work called Sew and Stitch in which you make a sea side themed quilt which consists of patchwork, applique and embroidery skills to create a bright and vibrant quilt. I want to have a stack of home made quilts with which to keep warm for my home as their bright and cheerful patterns add individuality to any home.
I also have lots of ideas for further projects and have been surfing on ebay looking for suitable patchwork fabric for future projects. I have my eye on a hexi quilt as well as a crazy patchwork quilt designs, but one step at a time I want to learn to do this properly.
I sent off for templates for Dresden Plate a larger and smaller size version and also a Double Wedding ring template [a Marti Michelle template] (this one was expensive but I love the design) I obtained this from the Cotton Patch (cost £27 with P & P about £31 but you get all the templates as well as different versions of the Double Wedding ring pattern and also two suggested quilting patterns for the completed quilt) and I want to use up smaller pieces of fabric both designs are ideal for this; I have to hand the smaller Dresden plate template is going to be ideal for this I have templates for the tie finish or the petal. So I am accumulating projects for the not too distant future again. Well if you have it there you can get on with things when the timing is right. I still have UFOs to complete though.
Right back to the ironing before I get into any more trouble.
Catch you soon.
Pattypan
x
I sent off for templates for Dresden Plate a larger and smaller size version and also a Double Wedding ring template [a Marti Michelle template] (this one was expensive but I love the design) I obtained this from the Cotton Patch (cost £27 with P & P about £31 but you get all the templates as well as different versions of the Double Wedding ring pattern and also two suggested quilting patterns for the completed quilt) and I want to use up smaller pieces of fabric both designs are ideal for this; I have to hand the smaller Dresden plate template is going to be ideal for this I have templates for the tie finish or the petal. So I am accumulating projects for the not too distant future again. Well if you have it there you can get on with things when the timing is right. I still have UFOs to complete though.
Right back to the ironing before I get into any more trouble.
Catch you soon.
Pattypan
x
Trish,
ReplyDeleteDo not want to put you off but the double wedding ring is a very complex quilt to do and needs absolute accuracy, its actually designed for advanced quilters. I have made a couple of wall hangings but even my quilting guru cotton reel as only done one quilt and that was a centre for a wholecloth quilt.
Can you not find a group that meets either in the evening or a quilt shop that does workshops at the weekend???? A beginners class is what you need. You really should start with piecing simple squares and shapes. Look at the internet there are lots of videos thete. Missouri Star Quilt Company's Jenny Doan has lots of ways to make simple quilts. The criteria is measure twice cut once. Do you have the proper rulers as well as the rotary cutter and the mat?
Good luck with the patchwork. I have avoided anything with a curved edge thus far, but I wish you well with it the Dresden Plate and the Wedding Ring hoop.l There are lots of helpful videos on Youtube.
ReplyDeleteAs for material, I took to buying 100% cotton garments from car boot sales last year and was busy with my stitch-ripper all summer long. A cheap way of buying pretty materials.
I look forward to seeing what you make, but be warned, once you have got the patchwork bug, there is no cure LOL
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to see you are going to try your hand at patchwork. It's a relaxing and satisfying pursuit once you get started.
ReplyDelete