Saturday, November 26, 2011

Scrapbag Explosion


Over the Thanksgiving Day vacation I finished two scrappy tops.  These will go to Debra, who will quilt and donate them to an organization that works with children whose parents are incarcerated.

This first quilt started as blocks made from the leftovers of another scrap quilt.  It's pretty pathetic that scrap quilts produce more scraps, but that's the way it is. 


I'd made several of these star blocks when I saw this faux applique block fabric by Kaffe Fassett on line.  It was the answer to my prayers.  Combining the stars with the floral blocks allowed me to finish this quilt in no time flat.  I had really gotten tired of those stars.  The piano key border allowed me to use up a stack of odds and ends.

Miraculously, the scrap supply is still plentiful, and I paired up some novelty squares and made this quick top.  Plain and simple, sometimes I need a quilt like this just to cleanse my creative palate.



I seem to be clearing the decks for the end of the year.  I've got two unfinished Madonna pieces that I'd like to see finished by the end of next month, so I've got a bit of hand work waiting for me.  In the new year I'm planning to participate in the Crazy Quilt Journal Project and Sharon B's Take A Stitch Tuesday challenge, both starting in January.  I'm looking at these as a chance to work on some long-deferred projects that have been simmering for awhile. 

10 comments:

Debra Dixon said...

I've already pulled out fabrics for the backings and hope to get these 2 done for the Christmas deadline of early Dec.

Glad you are joining us with some hand embroidery. I'm sure the loom can wait!

Libby said...

I really love the use of the appliqué "cheater cloth"! Beautiful quilt.

Deborah M. said...

omigosh, both are just lovely! I love scrap quilts.

Finn said...

I love both tops Barb, it may "just be" clearing out, but it sure works well. Good to see you making quilt tops again! Hugs, Finn

allie aller said...

It's an explosion alright! There are two very lucky children in the wings....

quiltmom anna said...

Two very nice quilts Barbara- How fun to get them made up from your scrap bag. I like the Kaffe cheater blocks- I love his colors and have a collection of his bright fun fabrics.
Hope all is well and that you and your loved ones are in good health.
Warmest regards,
Anna

Kay said...

I would never have thought of putting the cheater blocks and the star blocks together the way you've done it, but it works beautifully!

Magpie Sue said...

You are so right about scrap quilts creating more scraps! The scrappy stars and faux applique are a great combination. It may be time for me to do a simple four patch soon too...

Judy S. said...

I just LOVE the star quilt, Barbara! Was the piano key obrder as labor intensive as it looks? I've always wanted to do one.....
TAST and the CQProject should keep you out of trouble!

Susan Elliott said...

You and Debra make a great team. I love that scrappy star quilt...and I can't wait to see your Madonnas...

I'm thinking of doing the CQ Journal quilt too...hmmmm...

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