I have been obsessed with making strip blocks lately. I decided to make at least 5 strip blocks per day for a while and before I knew it, I had enough for a quilt! These are totally random, mixed colors and I plan on 6 across and 9 down (I have more than that done now). The blocks measure 8" unfinished and yesterday I went to my LQS to purchase sashing/border fabric and backing fabric.
I also make smaller 4" or 5" blocks using civil war reproduction fabrics. Here's a small one that isn't finished yet.
I'm always trying to find ways to use up fabric and found a couple more that are pretty easy. I found the first one in a large book I recently got from Martingale - "The Big Book of Scrappy Quilts." It's called "Pieces of Eight" and I cut out 12 blocks worth and have made one as a sample. It's super easy and measures at 18"!
I love it because it's scrappy, large and easy!! All the blocks will be different.
Another one that I started (testing it out), is from the Buggy Barn. I think I got the pattern either at a garage sale or at the quilt guild free box. I made 12 blocks.
And finally, I just finished this small wall hanging 11" x 14 1/2". This will be a gift. The flamingos are paper pieced (some unsewing was necessary) which is not my favorite method, but certainly is great for something like this.
And lastly, I have the first flower from my new clematis plant!
I bought this one because I wanted one that would bloom all summer. I have another one that just blooms once in May and then not again till the next year. My new purple one is supposed to bloom all summer!
Happy summer to all! Hope you will enjoy some freedom for a change.
Ruth! It’s like we are twins separated at birth! I could have written your whole post except for the punch cards (and I wish I could have!). I am making string blocks galore. I just finished a big quilt with white strips one way for the center and black the other half and direction. I have two new clematis plants, similar trellis, one new bloom, etc. Thanks for sharing all your sewing!
ReplyDeleteWow! You've been busy! String blocks always seem to take longer than I expect, so I've not become a fan. But yours look wonderful. I like the arrangement you have the civil war blocks in, even if it is just temporary. The stars are fun, even if they weren't fun to make. And the clematis is very pretty. I hope it performs as expected!
ReplyDeleteI really like that first block in R/W/B. I studied it and think I'll have to make a few blocks like that. I like your strippy blocks too. Just wondering --- do you sew the strips onto muslin? I don't think I could do very well with the stars or flamingos. The shop in Burleson that closed used to punch cards and redeem them when all punched. I loved that idea, and used it a lot! I'm still not getting much done. I need to finish the backing for a monster quilt; I've just got to get that finished, but just don't have the drive right now! Love seeing what all you are doing. ---"Love"
ReplyDeleteI love your flamingo quilt. It is just so cute! Lots of great fabric in the string blocks I see. Enjoy! ;^)
ReplyDeleteYeaaaaa, for using your strings for a beautiful quilt! Isn't it amazing how they keep accumulating?
ReplyDeleteRuth, you make some of the best scrappy quilts I’ve seen. What terrific projects and your discounts are to going to be a lot of fun to use. That’s a lovely colour on your clematis.
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