Sunday, October 9, 2016

Hayride


This newest quilt started out as an experimental piece based on an improv block I developed and showed in my last post. I call the block "Haystack", so "Hayride" seemed like a fitting name for this quilt. 


I originally set out to only use the left over bits of two polka-dot fabrics that have been in my stash for close to 20 years, but quickly ran out of the darker blue, so I gave myself permission to substitute the plain muslin that I had on hand. (Actually, it's 3 polka dot prints... the dark blue with cream dots, and 2 different cream ones with slightly different blue dots)



The limitations on fabric that I placed, caused the various blocks to each be unique, even though construction method was the same for each. When I ran out of the cream polka-dot fabrics I stopped. This is also the first quilt that I can recollect where I didn't bother to square up the edges and block after washing, as I wanted to keep a utilitarian look as much as possible. Surprised at how close it came to being more or less squared all by itself.


I machine quilted it with, yes, what many seem to consider boring old stippling.... which in truth I love as it provides such wonderful texture. I've said it before, and I will say it again, I do not understand why this humble, free-motion machine stitch has fell so out of favor. 


xo

5 comments:

skippie said...

Gorgeous quilt and I LOVE the stippling.

patty a. said...

This is such a vintage looking piece - I love it! The variations of the blue polka dot fabric and the addition of the muslin add to the vintage look. Stippling is my go to design when doing my t-shirt quilts Stippling is a good skill to have!

Debbie said...

Love this piece, in my limited knowledge of quilting it seems quite unique

Bernie Kringel said...

I love a stippled quilt as well. I think quilters have decided it is too common or not fancy enough but it give wonderful texture - it looks perfect with this project.

Jocelyn is Canadian Needle Nana said...

I love polka dots so this piece totally caught my eye. I love it and the combination of cream and pretty blues is lovely. What a little beauty!