Actually, if you are a regular Modern Balabusta reader you know that I've just finished my second mini quilt. All of the details about my quilting process are here. I've also blogged about my abandoned first attempt here. I don't want to be too repetitive but here are a few items of note about my Matriochka Doll Mini Quilt.
The size: 12 x 12 inches
The inspiration: Heather of alamode made a version of this quilt pattern and I was smitten. You see, my my parents have two sets of these traditional Russian nesting dolls which I've always loved. My father traveled a lot for work when we were younger and I believe that both sets were purchased during trips to Moscow.
The pattern: From Bubblestich on Etsy.
The Challenge: Well, it's paper pieced, but that's not a new technique for me, just one that I totally love practicing. This is second quilt I've hand bound the back of the binding and my stitches and corners are much improved, but I don't think that counts as a true challenge. I hand drew her pretty face, but I used the pattern as a guide so I can't really take credit for that either.
No, the challenge here was the free motion quilting. I've only done it twice now. The first time was for my Hannukiah Mini Quilt and I used a meandering stitch. That went pretty well. This time I tried doing bubbles. I didn't do any research or googling, I just improvised and this led to my starting each bubble anew. There were a LOT of ends. I got quite a few suggestions in the comments on my last blog post on how to make it easier next time I try this technique. Thanks ladies!
So there you have it! My first entry into a quilting contest. I have no illusions of being voted a winner - you should see some of the quilts that have been linked so far. They are AMAZING! I'm continuously inspired by the talent in the blogosphere. I'm just happy to be part of the online quilting community.
This is lovely. Great job!
ReplyDeleteVery cute!
ReplyDeleteI agree, there are some amazing quilters entered in the challenge. I entered anyway, as it seems you did, to be challenged! I think your piece is lovely! And I have no idea what paper piecing entails, but I really like the way it turned out. Your FMQ is fun, too, I don't see bobbles very often - I like them :)C
ReplyDeleteps - I have to laugh - I added some Russian to my mini, so Jennifer will be seeing a wee bit of Russian "culture" from us!
neat! I did an embroidery of a little russian doll and it was one of my favorites!
ReplyDeleteGreat job!
Such a beautiful job! I just joined your blog, and I'm so impressed with your work. I received this pattern as a birthday gift, along with lessons on paper piecing from the dear friend who gave me the pattern.
ReplyDeleteBTW: This tutorial helped me a lot with FMQ, it might help (Sorry, you'll have to copy and paste it. It wouldn't hyperlink)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAHxUWRs7DI&feature=related