In my quickie update about the retreat, I showed you the work that I had done on the scrap quilt I am making for Claire…
Once I had these blocks sewn together, I was paralyzed about what to do next.
My original plan was to applique big flowers in each of the white spaces, but it just didn’t seem appropriate now!
I was also struggling with what type of border to add. I played with a couple of ideas along these lines….
…but nothing seemed to be working.
Deb H. suggested that a black border would be too heavy, but that using black for the binding might be perfect. SUCH a good idea!!
When I got home, I put it on the design wall and started playing more with borders. I liked the idea of two borders, and loved the yellow….
But as I looked more, I realized that I wanted to continue the checkerboard pattern into the border, so now I am thinking along these lines….
I liked this idea, but knew that piecing would be difficult….but where is the fun if everything is EASY!!
I started by sewing long strips of yellow and blue together, then added the first border with the B-W-B three-patch…
I decided that I needed to miter the corners, and they were MOSTLY successful. As usual, there was one that just wouldn’t work right, but we aren’t going to worry about that!!
I added the outer border with the additional black squares next.
I like how this looks, especially with a black binding in the future….
But I am stuck again!!
NOW….it looks TOO plain, so maybe I need to add my flowers???
I decided to let it “rest” for a few days and see if inspiration strikes.
Come back for more!!
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Do you have a stack of scraps that you want to use in a fun design?
Check out this pattern for a quick and easy scrap quilt that will help empty your bins and bring a smile to your face!!
Full Color pattern includes step by step instructions for blocks and border.
I would add flowers….I always like the visual effect of organic mixed with structure…just a thought.
I think those white squares are a perfect spot for some detailed quilting.
I have had some of those same thoughts!!
I do love adding flowers to ANYTHING!! Bottom line…. either way will be perfect… I just have to decide!!
I really like the way you extended the small squares into the border.
As far as flowers, they would look great, but also with quilts, they are just one item in a room full of other stuff, so in my opinion, it is okay for them to have plain areas too. 🙂
Thanks for those thoughts. I am torn between making it look too “cutsie” and making it more elegant!!
It’s not too plain the soft yellow then the turquoise blue extending the black square is a nice finish. I don’t know who will receive that quilt, but it looks very finished. Stop stressing. Make someone happy with the gift. Life is too short to stress over a smart looking quilt. Live life with enjoyment.
Carol Ann
Great thoughts Carol Ann. It is a graduation preset for the girl that I taught to quilt when she was 9 years old. I am having fun with it, even if I can’t make up my mind!!