Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Flower Pots finished. Picture overload!!

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I am happy to say that I finally have another finish under my belt.  It has been a while.  I am busy, life is crazy, but I am happy to be able to finally share this beautiful quilt with you.  Gwen pieced and appliqued this gorgeous quilt using Kaffe Fassett fabrics, it turned out beautiful!

Here is what Gwen has to say about the quilt:

“The pattern used for this quilt top is “Flower Pots” by Kim McLean.  I primarily
utilized the freezer paper template technique that incorporates turning the fabric
edge with starch applied to the seam allowances, then I machine-sewed the appliqué
pieces down to the background.  Nearly all of the fabrics used for the appliqué were
designed by Kaffe Fassett and Amy Butler.  Please note that my fabric selection was
directly inspired by Kim McLean’s beautiful quilt and artistry.  I started this
project in May 2010 after finishing piecing “Newfangled Jane” (Dear Jane), and
finished piecing this in April 2012 (with lots of projects in between).  To top it
all off, literally, I knew early on that I wanted this to be machine quilted by the
one-and-only quilt fairy goddess of them all, Judi."

Gwen
 
 Thank you Gwen! 
The pattern is called Flower Pots and is designed by Kim McLean, you can order the pattern here

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It took me a little bit to figure out what I wanted to do with the quilt as far as quilting.  I had a few drawings figured out, then I changed it up to what you see here.  I was thinking of doing something a little more difficult in the border with the circles, but I think this design sets the circles apart and makes them stand out. 

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The big flower pot sections were the last to be quilted.  I was not sure how to tie it all in because of how large the background area is - originally the plan was to quilt everything else, then take the quilt off and turn it and put it back on the frames, then figure it out.  I was lucky enough to have a "light bulb moment" and I sectioned off the background with the rail fence design in the middle. I then did the same design background that was quilted in the center squares.  I absolutely love how it turned out. 

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You can see more of the rail fence affect in the above picture. 

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Diamonds, I love how these turned out. 

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It's funny, I put my quilting pictures out where people can see and comment, like on Facebook and Instagram.  This particular part of the quilt I put online and had someone comment that I quilted it way too much and I was taking away from the applique. I guess they don't know my style of quilting ;-)  I can't please everyone, but I have to say that I feel like the time I take into going around the applique and creating a background for the quilt only adds to the beauty of the applique. 

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I love this quilt, seriously. It is always hard to send these works of art back to their owners.

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One thing that I find crazy is that I take so long to get things finished.  I start comparing what I get finished to what others get finished and then I feel like I am not getting a lot done.  I have had this quilting guilt over me, I feel like I have let you readers down with my lack of posts and completed projects.  But, then I realize that I take a long time to quilt because I am a detailed perfectionist and that is what I love to do - not to mention that my family always needs me, and I need them.  So, thank you for being patient with me as I get things done at a much slower pace than most designers.

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I love the continuation of the background pattern with the squares to break it up and give this quilt some sweet character.   This picture shows off this particular part of the quilt wonderfully.

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This quilt does have two layers of batting.  I used an 80/20 blend with a 100% cotton. I used So Fine thread for the top and bottom line for the bottom. I used the pre-wound bobbins and I am not sure I love those - more on that later. 

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The colors in this quilt are so fabulous. 

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This picture was taken with the quilt upside down, but I really love the details of the diamonds. It was time consuming going around all of the applique, but the end result was totally worth it.

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The back. Oh my.

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There is nothing more rewarding that taking a quilt off the frames and seeing this quilting texture come to life.  I had such a fun time with this quilt.  I can not wait to get another one finished.  In the meantime, I will be getting ready to leave for Canada - that will be here soon!  Wow, time flies - and I am working on a pattern that will be released shortly.  So, stay tuned. Also, I just received another shipment of my books, so if you haven't purchased your signed copy yet, you can do that here.

Have a fabulous day!   

83 comments:

Anonymous said...

Judi, I love your work! Your devotion to your family is so evident so not posting finishes constantly is more than understandable also admirable!
Your use of background fill and density really makes the appliqué pop and that kind of quilting just can't be hurried and is well worth the wait. Thankfully I have many customers that understand that quality quilting takes time!
Thank you so much for sharing!

Barb Neiwert said...

Even though it's an over-used term: OMG!!! You started out with an extraordinary quilt and made it magnificent! Don't listen to negative voices - this is just what you do! Any idea how many hours of quilting went into this? And how many hours of design before you started quilting. Have fun on your trip to Canada.

Liz Dunne said...

I would love to be your quilting security guard Judi! Tell me who is saying ANYTHING negative about your quilting and I will escort them from the premises ha! The combination of the Kaffe Fabric with the beautiful applique and your stunning stunning quilting makes it a work of art. How long did it take to paint the Sistine Chapel again? People understand how long Art can take and try to put the other ones that don't to the back of your mind.

Kate C said...

I feel like I am repeating myself with each quilt...amazing, beautiful, jaw dropping. LOVE your style of quilting! And I don't think it is slow, look at what you have accomplished! Thanks so much for sharing!

Elizabeth said...

Your artistry has thrown this quilt above & beyond!!! It was already a masterpiece. I'm not sure what to call it now- exquisite, memorable, inspiring.
You mustn't place the constraints of expectations upon yourself- your work flows beautifully, always worth the wait.

Jen said...

Yet another stunning quilt! Your quilting is so inspiring.

Sue's Stitchin' said...

Unbelievably awesome. No guilt about taking too long - they wouldn't be as perfect if you rushed - or weren't as detailed!

Raylene Smith said...

I love what you have done on this quilt..looks wonderful...
I can't understand that persons thinking who commented on your quilting taking away from the applique???obviously she doesn't know what she is looking at...the quilting enhances the applique...nothing detracts from applique more than an under quilted quilt...I am also amazed at how quickly you quilt..with your busy life and young family...this type of quilting is slow going...I too am a perfectionist and detail nut...I have a quilt that has been on the frame for 18 months, where as in that time you have done heaps...(I feel like I am such a slow poke)every time I see another masterpiece you have done..I think to myself..How does she do it with a young family?

Anita said...

Just beautiful! I think your quilting complements the appliqué nicely!

regan said...

Another gorgeous quilt! And Gwen's applique and fabric choices are fantastic! What a masterpiece!

Did I miss the part where you talk about the pre-wound bobbins? I'd love to hear what you think.....I've never used them, but have thought about it!

Baa. xxx said...

BEAUTIFUL!!! Of course Gwen wanted you to quilt it - you and her together - MAGIC!!!

Jeanie said...

OOOOHHHH...AHHHHHH!! Just fabulous! I can't imagine having the patience to do such detailed quilting! The quilt itself is lovely and combined with your quilting it's a show stopper!!

JustPam said...

As another poster said-Magnificent! A beautiful quilt made even more beautiful with your quilting. I wish I had just a smidgen of your talent.

Batyah, Daughter of God said...

Beautiful! When I "grow up" I want to quilt just like you! Maybe you should consider having a dedicated wall to temporarily hang quilts so you can photo them...instead of laying them on the grass/ground? Thanks for sharing, blessings B

Janis said...

It is stunning!!!! To each their own. Too bad they have to verbalize the negative! You rock!!!!!

Melissa Corry said...

Wow, Wow, and triple Wow!!! Absolutely amazing!! I especially love the pictures of the back.

Barbara M. said...

Wonderful job as usual! You're great.

Auntie Pami said...

I saw a photo on Pinterest and someone commented you use a computer. I quickly informed them you did not. It's all you. Have fun in Canada, you're going to see Matt & Bradie, right? I've admired them a long while, you'll have fun. Too bad you can't take the kids, they would really have fun. Beautiful quilt, Gwen just does the best work and your quilting knocks it out of the park!

Tamie said...

Judi this is amazing. The quilt is fabulous on its own and your quilting adds a whole other dimension. This is an heirloom quilt for sure. Please don't apologize to your readers. We are here when you have something to share and will wait on the days when you don't.

Elise Lea said...

This is amazing! Everyone likes their own style and when they go to get their quilt quilted they can decide how they want it done. I love what you did with this - don't let anyone tear you down, you are incredibly talented!!!!!

carolann said...

Show stopper! Exquisite! Never seen anything quite like this!

Becki said...

I stand amazed at your quilting. You truly are an artist. I love how you take the 'blank' spaces and create a design all it's own. Thank you so much for sharing your quilt finishes with us. It is inspiration for me to TRY to do a fraction of the quilting that you do. Thanks again.

Miriam said...

Beautiful work!!!

Love the quilt and your quilting!

Charlise said...

I don't know what is more beautiful, the front with all the colors or the pristine back that you can see all of your gorgeous work!

Janine said...

I think this is the most beautiful quilt and quilting work I've ever seen! You are so talented.

Chelsea said...

I can just imagine you as a middle schooler, doodling all sorts of designs all over your binders. :)

Rebecca Grace said...

TOO MUCH QUILTING TAKES AWAY FROM APPLIQUE?!!! As Lucy (in Peanuts) would say, "Oh good grief!" Well, Judy, all I can say is that that the art critics and the Paris Salon all rejected Claude Monet's painting style, and now those fools are the laughing stocks of art history. Your quilting style inspired me to want to learn applique. The way you quilt the background is just magical, especially when you do one like this where you create an additional layer of structure in the design with those fence rails and diamonds. I am sure that Gwen felt challenged and inspired with the applique, to make something worthy of your quilting skills, and I think you both knocked this one out of the ball park. Congratulations; it's gorgeous!

sherry said...

sooooo many starts and stops...all the detail...no wonder it takes you longer...amazing work

Rebecca Grace said...

I got so fired up defending you from the blind quilt critic that I forgot to ask my question! I notice that applique shapes always stay nice and puffy for you, even when you quilt densely around them, whereas some other quilters' applique can kind of wrinkle up like a prune after quilting. Do you get that puff to the applique shapes from your doubled batting combination, or do you do any of that faux trapunto behind the applique shapes prior to layering with the regular batting and backing?

SarahG said...

:jaw drops: Wow! That quilt is nothing short of incredible! I love how the quilting adds an extra dimension to the applique that otherwise wouldn't be there. Fantastic job! Now, I'm going to try to attach my jaw again. ;)

Diane said...

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Your quilting is exquisite! Thank you for sharing.

lucysmom said...

This is stunning! Your quilting is inspirational. Thanks for sharing.

Beardie Mom said...

The teaser was on your Facebook post -- the ahhhhmazing ness of this quilt in all its stunning beauty is on your blog here. OMG!

And I see another of my quilt "idols" Raylene Smith commented about this stunning quilt!!

You balance it all quite beautifully -- creativity and your family -- quilted in love. Keep on keepin on -- at your own fabulous pace . . . Once again thank you for sharing!

Diane in Illinois

Lorna said...

Judi: Your quilting creativity is truly a wonderful awesome gift! Thank you so much for sharing your quilting with us.... your blogs and photos provide us with so much inspiration.

Unknown said...

Again, just beautiful, amazing, awesome, makes me breathless each time to see such beautiful work. Keep inspiring us all!

Tammy said...

Judi, as always, you completed a masterpiece! I think the quilting "sets off" the wonderful applique!

dorothy scales said...

whoever that person was that said you over quilt is sooooooo wrong. I love each and every quilt you share with us. You do amazing and beautiful work. I hope and pray that I can even come closed to some of the things you do. Keep doing what you do and inspiring us each and every times. Thanks for sharing your craft with us.

BillieBee (billiemick) said...

Stunning quilt and quilting....WOW!!

Marie said...

The most beautiful Kim McLean quilt I have ever seen

Anonymous said...

I can not say how much I LOVE this quilt!!!
The colours the fabrics, the shapes, the quilting....
it is a MASTERPIECE!
Esther
esthersipatchandquilt at yahoo dot com

Helen L said...

True artistry!! Of course you work slower: you can't rush a masterpiece!! Love the quilt and I love the quilting!!!

Lesley said...

Judi, your quilting is the perfect finish to this fabulous quilt. Stunning! Love seeing all the pictures and close ups of your quilting and how it enhances the overall design. Gorgeous!

JoyceT said...

I would love to have you quilt one of my quilts "way too much," appliquéd or pieced! You are the best.

Cynthia said...

Its not only the quilting that is amazing but the ability to see and design through the applique that is incredible. If I only had an ounce of your talent I would be thrilled. Thanks for sharing and it was worth the wait. Cynthia

quilting/fitness said...

WOW! another quilting masterpiece
im sure that one will be on the wall
Diana y

quilting/fitness said...

WOW! another quilting masterpiece
im sure that one will be on the wall
Diana y

Pieces of Cotton said...

Your style is denser than some, but when your customer chose you to do this quilt, I'm sure she wanted your signature style. Had she wanted another style, she would have chosen a different quilter. Another beautiful job. I can't imagine the time and patience to accomplish this.

Jean said...

As always, your work is so beautiful! Thanks for sharing so many fabulous pictures! I love, love, love your quilting!

Linda R said...

Another amazing finish for you. WOW!! What a beauty - not only the applique but the quilting. I love your quilting and think it adds sooooooooo much to each and every quilt. I better finish this little blurb as the drool is almost getting on the keyboard!! :-)

Lisa said...

This may be my favorite so far! It is awesome and I think you made the applique jump right off the quilt! BEAUTIFUL!

Leanne Parsons said...

Wow! That quilting is amazing! Anyone who says you did too much is obviously missing the point. The quilting becomes a whole new design element that enhances the piecing and applique.

Anonymous said...

Wow! Love it! Beautiful work!

Four dogs and one quilter said...

Fantastic!

Joy said...

Thank everyone for their comments. Each person is different, thank God for that, what would this world be like if we were all the same?

Your work is exquisite, although not everyone will have the same opinion. And that's all right.

Do your best work. Please yourself. Validation should come from within first.

Badass Disabled Mum said...

Oh my Goodness that quilt is amazing! simply gorgeous

Louisa
http://knottednelly.blogspot.co.uk/

Gertie Pye said...

WOW .... just WOW. Incredible. I have this pattern because I saw it and loved it but this just takes it to a whole new level. Amazing work.

Janet Ann said...

Absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Very inspirational.

Fabric lover said...

Oh my Holy Amazing!!!

Bree Bennett said...

Judi, I LOVE your quilting. In fact I think you're one of the most inspiring LA quilters out there. I don't think it's too much quilting at all, and I bet the owner of this quilt loves it too. I can't wait till I can have one of my quilts quilted by you. I know it will be gorgeous.

Judy1522 said...

Your quilting is always amazing! Your critics comment made me laugh because when I looked at that part of the quilt my first thought was that you had quilted it perfectly to make it stand out. Oh well I guess each person has their own ideas about things but I don't know how anyone can not appreciate the beauty of your work and the amount of time it must take. Your quilting always looks so well thought out and really adds to the overall beauty of every quilt of yours I have seen. Some day I hope to see one up close and personal at a quilting show.

Michele said...

As always your work is beyond extraordinary and for those people who don't care for your style, well poo on them. So many more of us really love it. My copy of your book just arrived yesterday and I can't wait to open it up but I'm saving it for leisurely reading it during my down time at MQX in just over a week.

Janet Smith said...

Wow, two very talented people have poured love into this beautiful Quilt. I have no words which can express how beautiful the work is that you both did! What a lovely treasure! Jan

porgecat said...

A beautiful quilt! Your quilting added so much to this top. It is so much fun to see your pictures of the back. It is like having a whole cloth quilt on the back of the quilt. Thank you for sharing these lovely photos.

Kristen Willard said...

I'm working on "Pandemonium" from Kim McLean and this gives me great ideas for the time when I quilt it. Great job! You really see secondary designs so well.

Glenda said...

I am in awe. Amazing quilt, congratulations.

Barbie Mills said...

This is beautiful. I love all of the secondary designs you created in the background.

Thanks for sharing your feelings on how long it takes. I've been feeling frustrated with that as well, although on a different scale. My family needs me too, and they really are the most important! How do you balance family with working at home? I usually work after they are in bed, but when I do need to quilt during the day when my husband is home, he's not mom and they still need me. Does your schedule still work for you? I need to figure one out that works for me.

Average Quilter said...

Amazing - as usual. Don't let anyone discourage you - you do awesome work

SuperMomNoCape said...

Beautiful does not even begin to describe that quilt. You took something was already beautifully done and made it spectacular. I'm sure Gwen is over-the-top happy with it.

Suze said...

Wow! This quilt is stunning! I love the quilt and the quilting is fabulous. Yes, everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. I have only entered one thing in competition - it was a cross stitch piece. I got marked down because the judge said my frame was too dark for the piece. I framed the piece (it was an announcement of my in-laws marriage) to match a secretariat in their living room - the furniture was a family heirloom. I was not happy. So, I just never subjected myself to being judged again. Everyone in the family adored it. Your work is phenomenal. Thanks for posting.

Lea said...

What a gorgeous quilt and you're quilting is stunning.

Lisa S. said...

You did an unbelievably wonderful job!

Sue P. said...

As a long armer myself--you inspire me to no end! I love your work(bought the book already). I would love to take a class from you sometime! I struggle with design and I know you could help me so much!! Really enjoy seeing your work!

Janet Ann said...

You have out done yourself with this one! I'm an appliqué person and I would LOVE one of my appliqué quilts quilted like this!! The background quilting adds extra dimension to the quilt and actually makes the appliqué pop! Keep up the Phenomenal work!

Unknown said...

I have just discovered your blog, and I am so awe struck by the incredible artistry of your gifts and talents in quilting!!! Your work is absolutely amazing and defies adequate words to describe the true magnificence of your work!!! It is quite obvious that it is a true labor of love with your whole heart and soul placed in every stitch!!! I have heard some quilters say they have to see what a quilt "says" to them before they begin their quilting design. You have a very special gift for interpreting a quilts individual language!!! Thanks for sharing your beautiful work!!!
From Diana in Texas

Susan P said...

Absolutely stunning!

Sandy said...

Just gorgeous and how I wish that I could be with you in Alberta right now! One of these days I hope to learn from you!

Leah said...

Hi Judi - Thank you for posting so honestly. I so relate to your "quilting guilt" of always feeling like there's more to do than there is time to finish. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one!

Meg said...

Astonishingly beautiful!

Unknown said...

Hi Judi,
I have just finished the same quilt and I'm absolutely floored by your beautiful quilting. I live in Australia and wonder if you quilt for international customers?
Leanne Kassis..

stitchenmylifeaway said...

Anything you do is worth the wait. I'm sure you accomplish more than you realize.
Shay

Unknown said...

That is so amazingly beautiful, I love it. I hope to be able to quilt like this in the future. My breath is blown away.

crazy quilter said...

I just have to tell you this Quilting is absolutely fablous!! I made this quilt but have not had it quilted yet, mostly because I had no idea how to have it Quilted. While I am sure my quilter can't match your beautiful quilting at least she can use this for some inspiration!!! You rock! Thank you for sharing

CarolQ said...

I don't know about over-quilted - for me it's to DIE for!