Quilting and Machine Embroidery

Well friends, the past two weeks have indeed been a blur and I’m not sure that I’m ready for the Bobbin show yet but tomorrow is my D-Day and whether I like it or not… I have to be ready. Somewhile back I had talked about introducing a new collection Vintage Quilting. Well, the past week has been literally spent tweaking and finalising some of the designs and writing techniques etc for this collection. Its done and I’m exhausted but glad indeed. One of my exhausting attempts was to create a method which would allow embroiderers to use the hoop for quilting directly onto the quilt or fabric. Ofcourse there are many different variations out there but what I wanted was to be able to quilt a finished quilt top in such a manner that it would seem like it is done on a quilting machine. Ofcourse I wanted the look to be antiqued but yet with a modern day twist to it.  First I had to create the idea of making large quilt blocks using a 5×7 hoop. The block on the side is about 11″ sq made on the 5×7 hoop using the multi-hoop method which is absolutely the most easiest. Those who have the Marrakesh designs saw the method in detail and the same concept was used here. The method uses absolutely no templates rather specially created marking stitches that are used to align without any measurements etc.

Quilting has indeed made a comeback yet again but I wanted to be able to use it in different ways than just quilts. With the holiday season upon us, gifts of something made from the heart that looks hand made is at the top of the list for many. The boudoir cushion again was created on the 5×7 hoop with the same design stitched out six times. The cushion gives a look of not just hand quilting but a feel of trapunto as well. And all this done without joining any blocks!

The method is actually quite simple and one that I have been teaching for years. A simple basting box around the perimeter of the design becomes the guideline to matching the designs. The basting is done right on the stabilizer rather than on the fabric which is pinned to the stabilizer. The precise manner in which this joins up is very simple and easy. Ofcourse I had to try every which question by my testers to make sure the method worked. This cushion was my last attempt. The first one is shown below which was actually the very first I started upon but changed directions when I realised that I could eliminate the piecing process by using whole cloths to create quilt fabrics.

With limitation of time, I kept to creating smaller projects which can easily be finished yet portray good examples of the designs in the collection. I did want to create a quilt and might do so this winter (fingers crossed) but for now, I’m glad the collection is finished….and yes it kept growing until I finally said enough, LOL.

To friends coming to the Round Bobbin Show in St. Charles, MO, Carolyn Edwards and I will be in booth #600. From what I hear, I think Carolyn has another great pattern for a wonderful bag. I’m dying to see it myself! Do come by and say hello.