quilt inspirations

So I've been thinking about making a quilt for my daughter when she transitions to a big girl bed (soon!). I know, I know. You're right. I don't know how to sew. Yet. Besides, I know people who do sew and that counts for a lot when it comes to bringing my visions to life.

There are two quilters I "discovered" via the CraftSanity podcast. They both do fabulous modern designs that are fun and funky.

Denyse Schmidt

• book: Denyse Schmidt Quilts: 30 Colorful Quilt and Patchwork Projects

 

Weeks Ringle

• blog: Craft Nectar

• book: The Modern Quilts Sourcebook: Over 50 Inspiring Projects with Detailed Step-by-step Instructions and Illustrations

sky at dusk

I think the colors might be just as lovely in the winter but I probably miss them completely because I am not outside. I think my tree-lined street looks quaint. A robin was singing cheerfully while I took this photo, a pause before the bedtime routine.

Friday night garland!

Last night my partner in craft and I had a sew-fest. Of our three intended garlands, only one is complete. But I must take the blame since my single happy birthday garland evolved into two 6-yard multi-purpose creations. I had a fabulous time and was SO happy to see a vision of mine become reality. I find it thrilling to make something that only previously existed in my head. I suppose I do this at work but this is much more fun since it is just for me and no one has edits!

Baby triangles awaiting trimming, flipping, ironing.

I think I am going to use these skinny scraps in an Easter basket. Won't eggs look charming nestled in there?

My dear friend who encourages me in my artistic endeavors with a can-do spirit and supplies the sewing machine know-how.

Rearranging the order with my toes. 6 yards was longer than either of us had envisioned!

A garland is born!

You want to see it hanging up don't you? Well, you're just going to have to wait! The birthday party is next weekend so I am sure it will be well documented after that.

sunshine!

Tonight we read The Beautiful World that God Made. I picked it out when we visited the Library last week. I was attracted to the cheerful illustrations by the very talented Anne Wilson. I enjoyed it even more today when I studied them up close. There's a fabulous layers and textures that I am  highly attracted to. Most of my graphic design work involves clean, solid, flat colors. While I still consider that my style, I am interested in adding more texture to my home decorating and perhaps to some future personal projects. Illustrations like this make me want to experiment with paint.

spring surprises

Tumbleweed hydrangea waltzing through the neighborhood and appearing in surprising places, resting alongside brick walls, tucked into chain link fences like festive boutonnieres celebrating the arrival of spring. "Mommy, look! Get that flower!"