May 28 11

Fourth and Last Block!

I started on that 4th block today and the photo above is the center quilting. This is only a block but there’s a trapunto layer underneath the flower section, so I’m quilting the entire flower while it’s still in the block stage. I used Signature Variegated Trilobal Polyester thread for that section, and I’ve found that when they tell you on the spool that you need to use a size 100/16 Topstitch needle, they really mean it! I flipped to Robison Anton solid gold rayon (24 Karat Gold, my favorite color of all time) for the smallest petals near the center:

Once everything is in the final quilt sandwich, I’ll stitch just inside the edges of all those small petals with Monopoly Invisible Thread by Superior Threads, but for now, I’m doing decorative stitching. Next up, I did the EKG edge finishing design in a solid turquoise thread on the next layer of purple/blue petals:

…and this is what the backside of the block looked like at that point:

And here’s a shot after I’d just begun stitching a swirly flourish inside each of the largest petals. I have to say, this design is really fun to stitch:

It feels good to be moving this project along, but now that I’m close to having all 4 blocks completed, I’m re-thinking my original plan for joining them. I may need to return to another half-done project in the meantime to give myself some time to think this over. In the meantime, Happy Memorial Day!

6 Comments

  1. Debbie St. Germain Says:

    Beautiful quilting, I just love the designs you added to the applique, it is stunning.

    Debbie

  2. Berit Says:

    Love the quilting, this will be a beautiful quilt!

  3. Jean Says:

    This is gorgeous quilting. You do such an amazing job.

  4. What Comes Next? Says:

    I love this! I am always so inspired by your projects. The swirl in the larger yellow leaves is fabulous – I must go practise that one – I think I have just the spot for that type of design in a piece I’m currently working on – thank you for inspiring me yet again!

  5. Lisa Says:

    I love seeing the closeups of your quilting. It gives me ideas for my own humble quilting. Thank you!

  6. Alice Says:

    Patsy,

    This project is coming along quite nicely. I recall when you first started cutting the pieces with the Sizzix die cutter… *just realized how long ago that may have been, nah can’t be. grin*. Glad to see you progressing. Your quilting always inspires, and always adds so much life to your already beautiful projects. I look forward to seeing your next “stage”.

    -Alice
    PS – the wedding went well, and the tissue paper flowers really added a bit of sparkle to the tables. I am so looking forward to getting back to quilting, and all it entails.