Patchwork Quilt

The latest project in my completed WIP list started as a background to a bunting commission.   The recipient was a boy (alien species for a Guide and Rainbow leader and mother of two girls!) and the theme was transport/trains.

Once again twitter came to the rescue with suggestions of fabric shops in Cambridge.   After dragging my 3yr old round three of them in the rain, we came to the last and found Sew Creative had a layer cake (10″ squares of fabrics) of Riley Blake Designs ‘Scoot’ fabrics.   This combination of fabrics seemed perfect for the brief but I couldn’t make bunting efficiently from a layer cake.   It was then I decided to make a quilt as a Christmas present from the layer cake, and if the customer liked the fabrics, I could buy a fat quarter bundle from elsewhere to make the bunting.

With the fabrics approved, the bunting was delivered, and I hope Dylan liked it!

With my layer cake at the ready, I was determined to make my first proper (ish) quilt.   I have made quilted patchwork cushions before, but nothing on this scale.   However, I soon realised that my original intended recipient wasn’t suitable, so the project was parked.   This was until two good friends sent an invitation to their baby’s baptism.

As it was only 24 squares, I thought it could be a play mat, quilt or sofa snuggler, so my 3 year old and I spent some time arranging the squares.

Having photographed the layout, this made it easier to make up as I knew which bit went where.   I then quilted ‘in the ditch’ (along the lines between the squares) using batting and a royal blue backing fabric.   I figured this would be practical if it was used as a play mat.   After this I was in unknown territory as I’d never bound a quilt before.   I found a ‘self binding’ tutorial and had enough fabric round the edge to fold over and sew.

It is wonky in places, it’s far from perfect, but I was pleased with it as my first attempt.   When I have a bit more time, I might try something a bit more technical and time consuming, but for now, I’ve handmade a gift, gained a new skill, and completed another WIP.