I am trying to use two contrasting colors in each star, but what I am quickly realizing is that for the pattern to really pop I need two contrasting prints that really read as two contrasting colors. I started with these two prints:
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and made this star.
Now I do like it and I will use it in the quilt, but I wish it has more definition and wasn't so busy. I think it's the pink dotty print (one of my favorite DS prints!) that is making it so hard for my eyes to adjust. I am starting to wish I had planned to incorporate more solids...but it's too late for that seeing as all of my FQs are already cut up! Anyway, no regrets. I am learning and moving ahead.
Block 2 and 3 are currently being pieced. They're both blue and green blocks but I think they're less busy because the green print reads more as a solid. Fingers crossed, anyway!
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Lessons learned so far?
1. Cut 4 inch pieces from each FQ instead of the 3 7/8 inch pieces in the pattern. It enables you to square the pieces as you go. If you're like me and pre-cut your 3 7/8 inch pieces, just sew a little to the center of the diagonal line you drew (do a small 1/4 inch seam) and you will be in great shape.
2. Incorporate solids - or dominating prints that read as a solid.
3. Lay two FQs on top of one another to cut them faster. That worked a treat and sliced my cutting time in half.
4. Once you get your brain around one block, try piecing 2 at the same time. It doesn't take much longer than doing one if you chain piece.
Some ladies in the QAL Flickr group are already finished their tops! Some have great alternative uses of the pattern and some are expanding the 9 star to 20 star massive quilts. Do pop over to the group for a bit of fabric inspiration. It's amazing what folks are creating. I had better get focused fast and start piecing like mad just to keep up!
12 comments:
Love your star and I'm sure it will be fine!
I never cut all my fabrics out for a quilt as I'd never have the confidence without seeing how it was coming together. My organic approach means I can dither about and change my mind and indeed the whole direction of a quilt! But it does take longer I guess? And ends up completely different!
Mine are cut but thanks for the tips! Your first swoon block looks great!
You can't go wrong with DS. It will be a beautiful finish when you see all the blocks together.
It'll look fab when it's all together :o)
oh well done, and with DS you are guaranteed it'll look awesome!
It's going to be stunning - I have the pattern and think I might swoon when I'm back home. Thanks for the tips C :)
Wow! I love it! Keep going! Jxo
beautiful!!! It will be one stunning quilt.
I think it will be wonderful. If you want to add a solid or two consider making a couple of extra blocks with the left over FQs to be cushions. I like your block by the way, I expect it will feel less overpowering when it is quilted and washed.
I very much agree with the sew more then one block at a time tip! I really like your color choices. Can't wait to see it finished.
looks like a lovely use of DS fabrics!! Loving your work so far :)
xx
I worked on mine yesterday. This post reminded me that......I really need to post!!! Lol I love your block and I think when you sash them you will see them differently.
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