Make Mine a Mini

-My Problem-

I have always enjoyed most aspects of quiltmaking, from selecting a pattern and fabric to the cutting and piecing and eventual assembling of the quilt top. I don't even mind layering and basting as that puts me one step closer to a finished quilt. What I struggle with is the actual quilting of the quilt. I am not a hand quilter -- that leaves the rolling up and scrunching, the pushing and pulling and fighting that seem to go hand-in-hand with my machine quilting efforts.

-My Solution-

I love making mini quilts. For me, they provide all of the enjoyable aspects of quiltmaking without the struggle. Minis require very little fabric. They are relatively quick to complete, and they make lovely little gifts. Although most of the quilts I make are given to friends and family, I have managed to keep a few minis.

1. 'Hole in the Barn Door' was made five years ago. Each block is one and 7/8 inch square. It hangs in my sewing room and reminds me that: 

                             a. Bigger is not always better

                             b. Less is more  
  

                                            

2. 'Tulip Mini' (foundation paper pieced) is from the March/April 2006 issue of 'Love of Quilting'.  

3. 'Colorwheel' is an Ann Hermes design from the Spring 2010 issue of 'Easy Quilts'. This wall hanging has a companion table runner.

4. Last but not least is another Ann Hermes design. This little sawtooth star quilt will also hang in my sewing room.

I know that minis will never replace a full sized quilt or throw. For me they are simply a reminder that good things do come in small packages.


Sandy

'Katie's Challenge' brought me back

Some of you may have seen my blog when it first debuted in mid January. It was to have been the story of my creative journey -- my life in fabric. Sadly, I felt that it was not at all creative. I had nothing new or unique to add to the blogging community. End of blog.

That was then, this is now. I still have nothing unique to offer, but I do love sewing and quilting. I draw inspiration from all of your wonderful stories, and one blog in particular has really inspired me. Katie's scrap quilt challenge seemed to be something I could do.

My scrappy string quilt was started on March 18. The top was finished in early April, and in late May I decided to quilt it. The quilting was finished late Monday evening (June 14) and the binding was finished the following day. So, thank you, Katie, for the inspiration.

Sandy