When I laid out the blocks for my first attempt at design, and with my original choice for sashing, I was completely overwhelmed by color. I hated everything about it, but was so disgusted I was going to do it just to be done with it. During a stitching session with my friends, one offered that white would really offer some distinction and separation between the blocks. Why, I had never thought of deviating from my original plan?! It hadn't occurred to me that perhaps grounding the quilt with a neutral, after my very bold block color choices, would make all the difference. Motivated with a fresh perspective, I purchased some fabric for the sashing and backing and tackled this project. Between that and a new layout, I had a renewed passion for this quilt.
Two weekends of quilting later and I have a finished product! Now, this quilt is still not in my comfort zone. The colors are quite bold and some of the block designs are a bit too modern for my taste, but I am pleased with the outcome! I quilted with diagonal lines to form a trellis pattern, since the feature fabric is summer/garden song.
The best part of all this is that I had a recipient in mind -- but only since February, when her daughter was born. I had the chance to see my friend and her gorgeous daughter today and to present the quilt -- not altogether sure how it would be received, being that it is so far from my normal projects! Well, as you might have guessed, the recipient loved it -- to the point of getting a tear or two in her eye! I cannot tell you how moved I was by her reaction. To have had such trepidation about whether the quilt would "match her style" and what she would think of my crazy colors only to have her be thrilled with an unexpected surprise. I was floored. Not only did she receive a treasure, but so did I. I remembered why I love making homemade items for people. I can't wait to watch as her family gets great use out of the quilt!
