I think the stars must have lined up yesterday because I had an almost perfect sewing day. I got my sewing machine out just after 9am and didn't put it away till nearly 330pm! Not bad considering I had all 3 of my own kids and a couple of hangers on in the house.
What did I sew? More blocks of course!
I'm really pleased with these blocks, not least because I think my improved cutting and measuring shows in the actual construction of the blocks.
I also did a couple of test quilting pieces yesterday which turned out well.
I practiced this swirl because I need to do it on a cushion cover that I'm making (it's nearly finished so I hope to share it soon). I used the edge of the presser foot as a guide and I wonder if the lines are a little close together. But I can work on that as I need to.
This was my first try at free hand quilting and I'm really pleased with the result. In some places it's a bit pointy on the curve but I think that will improve with practice. Both the fabric and the wadding I was using were really thick and I think thinner materials would help. But overall I think as a first attempt I did quite well (even if I say so myself!).
I hope you've all had sewing successes this week. I'll be linking up with Handmade Monday to catch up with everyone there.
Love Natalie x
P.s. Have you all noticed the patchwork designs on the Winter Olympics? It's on all the advertising and the costumes. And there are definitely more crochet hats than you normally see on the slopes!
its looking really pretty :) well done as doing anything with kids around is a challenge :P
ReplyDeleteWow, somewhat impressed with how much sewing you managed with children in the house:) blocks look good:)
ReplyDeleteWow you're doing soooo well with your quilt blocks! They look fantastic, i can't wait to see them all pieced together. I really like the spiral quilting and the free hand too - well done for having a go at that, i find the idea a bit scary... :) x
ReplyDeleteThe quilt blocks look great, especially the spital one. Hope you have a good week
ReplyDeleteJill, Christmas Pie Crafts
What a great day you had. The blocks look fantastic. Love the spiral.
ReplyDeleteThe blocks look great and well done with the quilting. It will become easier with practise xx
ReplyDeleteYour first free motion quilting looks good. I found my curves were pointy too when I started and I had about same size of practice block. it's actually easier to make them more rounded when you have more fabric so you should find you improve. I love it much more than straight line quilting, it's quite addictive. Wearing thin gloves with fingergrips also helps move the fabric around!
ReplyDeleteI've also noticed the Olympics patchwork theme. And the crocheted and knitted hats look sooooo much nicer than those that were made in some factory. Gives craft a real boost. Hurray :)))
ReplyDeleteWow I am so impressed with your blocks and your free hand quilting is wonderful. You've really inspired me I definitely going to have a go at some quilting.
ReplyDeleteAli x
Gosh that's an awful lot of sewing in one day, far more than I'd ever manage. I tried freehand quilting and didn't manage to get it quite right, I think I need to get back to it and have a LOT more practice. :)
ReplyDeleteJan x
ps.... your rocky Road looks delish, I've written the recipe out to give it a try.
Your blocks are looking great, and your spiral sewing is amazing - its so neat and even.
ReplyDeleteYour first attempt at free-motion is impressive. I wouldn't have had the guts to show my dismal efforts. I like the spiral quilting too.
ReplyDeleteI noticed the jackets at the Olympics !
Teresa x
I'm looking forward to the day when I have a perfect sewing day.Your new blocks look great and I love your free hand quilting attempt.
ReplyDeleteI am amazed at how much you managed with a house full of kids!
ReplyDeleteFree motion quilting is definitely a challenge. Try to practice on a piece of paper, drawing freehand to fill the space evenly, it is an excellent way of gaining confidence in your spacing, and I try not to work in lines if I can manage it. Do you have a good foot? Mine is rubbish, but I manage �� I am struggling to get a 'C' shaped one with a high shank fitting!