Only in my dreams........

I would say that I made this quilt and that it was mine! But then, I would be lying - so in my dreams and for just a few short hours I will have the most incredible quilt on my bed......and my only claim to fame is that I was able to quilt it.

  

But then I think about really owning this quilt, and it sitting on my bed and realize that I would never let my kids in my room, I would always be telling (nagging) Clint to not sit on the bed - so really, this quilt belongs on a wall and that is where I believe it will be. Karin made this "Ladies of the Sea" quilt designed Sue Garman. Karin did a fabulous job and I would be lying if I didn't feel slightly pressured to make sure I didn't ruin this quilt.

 

I can't even begin to imagine the needle turn applique involved in making this quilt. Seriously, I know that I wouldn't have the patience to make this quilt right now. But, I am always grateful when I get to be a part of a quilt that will be treasured for a long time. If you think you have the patience to make it yourself, all the patterns and kits to get yours started can be purchased here.

 

So, this quilt was "simple" in the fact that I didn't have to think much about what I was doing. I had to draw a ton of lines, 1/4 straight lines on a 45 degree angle got a little tiring. Each block, from start to finish took me around 1 hour, some took longer than that. So, just in block work it was around 16 hours. The rest of the quilting, mostly pebbling took me 43 hours. So, 59 hours total to complete this quilt.

 

I think the hardest part about this quilt was keeping the straight lines straight, I am not perfect, I am not a computer and I am the biggest critic of myself. But, it is so amazing how once you pull a quilt off the frames, the imperfections seem to disappear as you get the whole picture in.

 

Amazingly enough, I enjoyed the pebbling more than I enjoyed the straight stitching. Although, my back was aching for a few hours after each quilting session. It's all worth it in the end as you can see the applique pop and become the showcase it needs to be.

 

Because of the dense quilting in the background fabric of the quilt, I didn't feel like I needed to add more quilting to the applique and the triangles around the quilt. The triangles and sash needed to "pop" as much as the applique. Stitching in the ditch is always the best option to make each shape stand out.

 

I used two layers of batting - I don't use one layer anymore - but for this quilt I used a wool batting and a Hobbs 80/20 batting. I think it worked out beautifully.

 

I love this picture!!

 

I used Kimono Silk Thread by Superior Threads for the first time. I have to say, I loved it! It's a strong, durable thread and super thin. I didn't have any problems with the thread and I am sure I will use it again. It's a little more pricey, but I think it is worth it for your masterpiece quilts.

 

Close up of the pebbling! I think I like it!

 

And, the back....oh yes, I think I love it!!

 

The backing used for the quilt was so great, it's a map of the world, but solid enough in color to showcase my work. I love it when my quilting shows.

 

I am so glad to have this quilt finished. It's one of those quilts that is hard to start because I get a little nervous, but the relief of the finished project is such an amazing feeling. Let's hope Karin likes it when she picks it up in the next half hour :-)