Back in 2016, my guild issued a Self-Portrait challenge that eventually turned into a Travel-Log Quilt.
The parameters of the challenge were that it had to….
- be a self-portrait
- have overall diameter of 80 inches
- have a discernable patch of red
As I thought about who I was, I realized that I……..AM….A…..TRAVELER!!! And, I wanted the quilt to somehow represent that fact.
We had a photo that had been taken of us when we were in Italy in 2010, visiting the city of Gaeta. If you want to read about the day…..
One of the favorite things that Michael and I enjoy when we are traveling is to walk hand-in-hand and enjoy the sights. This is the inspiration photo…..
I started out by tinting the photo to Black & white and enhancing the red in my shirt…..
Next, I needed something to go around the photo, and a “Trip Around the World” block seemed appropriate…..
But, it wasn’t quite big enough so I needed to add a border……or two!!
I love this quote which has been attributed to many different people, but my favorite rendition of it is this…..
That saying proved to be the perfect finish to this fun quilt…..
Fun challenge topic and I love your spin on it….always wish I could learn to do the math to make borders on an original quilt design…I’m clueless but enjoyed seeing your quilt.
Thank you for the compliment. It was a fun quilt to make. Just to let you know, I often make my borders way too big and then cut them down after I have finished the top and can see what will help the design more!!
What a great self portrait and remembrance of a wonderful time with your sweetie.
Thanks Jean. That was the purpose and I love how it turned out!!
What a wonderful quilt–it’s inspired me to make a similar one. Did you use a particular pattern for it? Do you sell patterns? I’m new to your site–still exploring. Thanks so much for sharing it.
Thanks Arlynn. It was a fun quilt to make. I didn’t use an actual pattern but followed a “Trip Around the World” design. If you look at it, the inner portion consists of squares only. The design appears based on where the fabrics are placed. It is actually a very easy design. I have a couple of patterns but have found that pattern writing is not my favorite thing to do!! Check out the menu at the top of the blog and it will take you to them. There is also a free pattern for a “Sawtooth Star” quilt, along with videos about ways to quilt it. Please reach out if I can help in any way…. frances@francesquilts.com
Thanks—I believe I can figure out a pattern that will work for me. Thanks again for the inspiration.
I am so glad Arlynn. I would love to see it when you finish!!