Monday, August 1, 2011

A finish…finally!

Just the flimsy but nevertheless, a finish!

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I’m not a fancy person and don’t really like a lot of frou-frou, bling and glitz so this traditional nine patch quilt is right up my alley.

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About a year ago,  I took part in a Civil War nine patch swap hosted by Julie

I haven’t pieced a quilt since before we moved to Nova Scotia last December, not because I haven’t wanted to but because there was so much going on in our lives…the packing, the actual move, renovations, unpacking, tons of yard work, planting, the arrival of ‘les girls’ Rhoda, Ruby and Roxanne, Frankie the terror and my health issues. 

Two weeks ago and just prior to Frankie’s unexpected arrival, I decided to pick up the nine patches and get down to business.  I had everything I needed in my stash so there was no excuse.

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I started the initial piecing and wanted to complete the top before my biopsy surgery but we all know what happens to ‘the best laid plans’…right? 

It only took two weeks but I finally finished it this morning.

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I can’t tell you how good it feels.  Now I know how a lion feels when set free from it’s cage!

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The quilt currently measures 84” x 72”.  I’m wondering if I should add another border of either 4” or 6”, simply because I was thinking about finishing the quilt with a scalloped border.  What would you do?

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As for Frankie?  He’s everywhere!  The door to my studio has to stay closed because there’s just too much for him to get into.  I can’t wait for the kitten stage to be over with!

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Later on this week I’ll be sending my quilt top to Mary, longarm quilter extraordinaire who resides at Quilt Hollow, to allow her to work her magic on it.  I’m hoping that it’ll be back just in time to cuddle under on those cool, crisp autumn nights.

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95 comments:

Sunnybec said...

Kaaren your quilt is lovely, and it looks like Frankie likes it too!! xx

sunny said...

I love the quilt! I've been thinking of cutting a bunch of my scraps into squares and making a nine patch. Hugs to you and Frankie!

Sandi said...

You did a lovely job finishing it up, a scallop border would be an interesting twist and allow some pretty curves to offset the linear 9 patch.

Wish I could get going on a couple of overdue projects.

Hi to the whole PQ family don't want to forget Mac and Mr PQ!

Monica said...

It looks fabulous and I think a scalloped border would look great!

I wish I could say I have done something with my nine patches too. But at the moment they're still sitting around waiting for me. Although I did make a decision what to do with them so that's something I guess.

Heartsdesire said...

Love your quilt, especially the simplicity of it. The nine-patch has always been my favourite block. I made a similar quilt a few years ago from a pattern in an old Traditional Quiltworks magazine. I think I'll dig it out and make another one. I'm not much for borders (I never seem to get them cut straight), so I would leave your quilt as is. Would love to see it again when it comes back from the quilters.
Judith

Kathryn said...

I love your 9-patch quilt. I've never attempted a scalloped border, so I don't know how much work would be involved if I said 'go for it!' Whenever I finish a project and have some fabric left over, I always make a few 9-patches. My shoebox is overflowing, so maybe I need to do like you and MAKE SOMETHING with them. Best wishes, Kathie L in Allentown

Kathy H said...

I think the quilt is beautiful. The scalloped border will look really nice too.

Cattinka said...

You made a beautiful quilt. I like all quilts that have a scrappy look and are made of stash fabrics.
I think a scalloped border would look very nice on it.
KATRIN W.

Silent Scrapper said...

I love the quilt! I like simple things and I think the simple quilt is BEAUTIFUL as it is! Nothing wrong with embellishments, but overdoing it is a big no-no. ;-) It's your quilt, so you should be able to do whatever you wanted with it: add a scallop or not. As for me, I'd leave it as it is! ;-)

Flo @ Butterfly Quilting said...

Very pretty...it looks great. I love borders, but have never tried a scalloped one. Would love to see it done!! : )
Frankie seems to like it too.

Cotton Blossom said...

It is a wonderful feeling of accomplishment to get a top finished. Piecing is my favorite part of quilting by far. I would love to see a scallop on the quilt. Either way I really admire all your work. The kitten is beautiful!

susis quilts said...

love that quilttop,simplicity sometimes is the best,i would add a scallop border,best wishes ,susi

ann said...

I think it is beautiful just the way it is. Take care

By Hoki Quilts said...

You asked for our opinion hun so here's mine for what it is worth... I like the idea of the scallops, however... knowing that there is more visits with medics in the future can you really handle the 'thought' that it will require to get it finished? Just saying cos I care.
hugs all round
Miche'le

Jocelyn said...

Kaaren, your Civil war 9 patch is beautiful. I would love to make one like that. It looks so cozy and inviting. Great job.

KaHolly said...

I'm with you! I have a similar quilt on my bed, a little scrappier, though. It looks great. I think scalloped borders would be just the thing!! ~karen

Janet-Olde Crow Primitives said...

That is a gorgeous quilt! Nine patch is one of my favorites. I love the antique bed too.
Janet

MoeWest said...

Your 9-patch quilt is beautiful. I think a scalloped border would be a great addition.

Debra Jefferson said...

What a beautiful quilt! The scallop would be the frosting on the cake!

Abby and Stephanie said...

Simply put...it's simply beautiful. Maybe dear Frankie would like a quilt of his own???

Anonymous said...

Hi Kaaren! a couple of years ago I made a 9-patch similar to yours out of all my flannel scraps. I set mine on-point though, not sure why, but I like it. It was so big I didn't put any border on and it looks fine. I love scallop edges for more 'frilly' pastel quilts so can't quite imagine it on a civil-war 9-patch. Can't wait to see yours completed. Linda in Keno.

Anonymous said...

I love your quilt. I too was in a 9-patch swap a while back, maybe I will do mine like this, the simplicity is perfect. Your baby kitty is so darned cute! I still have to leave my sewing room closed because my kitty who isn't even a kitten anymore can't be trusted with needles and thread.

Cheryl Willis said...

6 " print and then do that scallop!!

dips on all the 9-patches that didn't get used- wait I have a couple of years of my own UFO's
be good cw

barcord said...

A lovely quilt just as it is Kaaren. However, if you want to put a scalloped border, it would be something extra special. Your call. Keeping you in my prayers.

Needled Mom said...

I love the simple blocks too and Mary will have so much fun in those open squares.

I always love scallops, but it looks great either way.

DebbieM said...

Absolutely lovely, Kaaren. I love the nine patch. I think a scalloped border would be very pretty. Hugs!!

Jeanne said...

Nine patches have always been my favorite quilt blocks. I think it looks wonderful. If you do add a six inch border, I wouldn't scallop it. Glad you were able to get your blocks to the flimsy stage.

Merilyn said...

The nine-patch is gorgeous Kaaren, I can see some familiar fabrics in there, some golden oldies too!!! I finally got my 9-p completed a couple of weeks ago (it had been a flimsy for around 4 yrs) and I must say this simple block makes for a grand quilt indeed!!! I look forward to seeing yours quilted and on your bed!!!!
Dear little Frankie! he is just such a cutie, and I know you need eyes in the back of your head most of the time!!! I have a couple of closed doors in my house too, definitely no-cat zones LOL!!!!
Good thoughts your way for this weeks Drs appt!!

lynneUSA said...

Love it, but yes I would add the extra border, it will give you more drape

Hellen Sigurbjörg said...

I love the beauty of this simple style quilt!

marina said...

9 patch is such a simple but effective block. Your top looks beautiful. Very homey on that bed. A scallop edge would be good.

Lovely to see it has the Frankie seal of approval too.

Allie said...

This is really lovely, Kaaren! A scallop border would be wonderful, but yes, I would add another border first. Nine-patch is one of my favorites, it's such a classic, great job!

WoolenSails said...

That quilt is perfect for your bed, just the right touch for the antique room. Lucky you, Mary does such beautiful work, I can't wait to see what she does. Kitten stage? Mine are older and I am still waiting, lol.

Debbie

Kristie said...

I truly love 9 patches! Love the fabrics that you chose fo it too.
Kristie

Wanda - Scraphappy Blended Quilter said...

Yes another row, YES scallops. They will really set off the 9 patch angles. I LOVE it - great overall look and "feel"

Unknown said...

Love your quilt just as it is although adding an extra border with a scallop edge would really make the whole quilt sing. BTW Frankie will be in the kitty stage for quite awhile yet.
Hugs to you, Mr PQ and all your precious pets.

Candace said...

Catching up with you, Kaaren! That 9-patch is right up your alley for sure! I love the idea of a scalloped border, too! Mary will surely transform it! I am sorry to tell you that kitten stage will last for a while and only Frankie will decide when it's over - LOL! Our Sophie's lasted for 10 years - no kidding! Not to worry, though - she's the exception - lol! Sounds almost like good news from the biopsy - we will continue with sending over good Karma!
Cheers!

Linda said...

Kaaren...love the quilt! As usual, you are such an inspiration.
Amazing how much you have done in the few months that you have been there.
Linda

Amy R said...

I'd add another wider border. I just love the idea that you'll scallop the edges. Someday I'll make and quilt with a scalloped edge~ Just love that!

Kathy said...

I think a scallop would be just the finishing touch! I envy anyone who can do them well! Go for it!

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

I love your new quilt, Kaaren. There's something very comforting about squares and nine patches. As for Frankie, I hate to tell you this, but our Chloe is two years old and is still very much in the kitten stage. Maybe you got a real cat and not Peter Pan. LOL

Sheila said...

Scallop border would add a different look look to your quilt. Frankie looks like he is having the time of his life in his new home.

Judy C said...

Love the nine patch, I like to try new things all the time, but I am always always drawn to the simple traditional quilts. A perfect fit for that bed too!

Karen said...

Like the simple and calmness of the 9 patch.
I like it as is, nicely done.

Do you have some hand work & a few books set aside for your time of relaxing?
Best wishes and happy reading...K

Lori said...

I love it!! If it was mine I'd leave it as it is. When Mary is done with it it will be even better!! Fantastic Kaaren!!

Theresa said...

Love your nine patch finish!!! It is gorgeous!!

Sue said...

Hi Kaaren.... so glad to see you are sewing......lovely quilt.. I also love nine patches and have made several from an exchange when I lived in Quebec. Would you consider a "wave" border instead of an actual scallop... Easier to bind and I love the one on my Cottage Garden.. The E. Burns ruler was great for figuring out measurements....

Terry said...

I love your nine patch quilt! I like simple too! :0)

Mimi said...

I think your quilt is very pretty and so is your kitty.

MyCretanlife said...

Well done on the finish. It looks great. Then there is Frankie, what a lovely kitten. I would not get anything done if I had him around. I would be playing with him all day and snuggling up for naps together. I don't have a cat at the moment, but I have always had cats and I do miss not having one. However I have our little Lucky a stray dog we took in and we have a special relationship. Yes she is definitely my dog.

Elzaan said...

Lovely quilt! Such exchange projects are fun!
I would leave the top as it is. But then again, a scallop border might give an interesting effect.

Unknown said...

Love the quilt!!! Where do you find your Civil War fabrics?

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your top being finished. It's great when you get a long awaited project finished.
I think I agree with your idea. Another border would be good. I think it would help balance out the patch work. I think continuing the tan that you have as a background would be nice exspecially if you want to scallop it.
Well, anyway that's my opinion. I would love to see if after it is done. My dream is to have Mary do a quilt for me...she is fantastic.
Just think how warm that quilt is going to keep you once winter arrives at your place.

Calamity Jane's Cottage, Bonnie said...

Kaaren, now this is my kind of quilt, simple and primitive. Love it. Mary does such beautiful quilting and Frankie is a doll. I think the scallop edge will be the perfect finish.

Kathy MacKie said...

You're my kinda girl, simple is good. One has to do what feels right.

antique quilter said...

love the quilt, oh I love nine patches.
I would add a scalloped border, every time you pass the room and see that border you will be so happy you took the time to do that.
keep us posted and I am sure Mary will add a lot of texture to your beautiful quilt
with her quilting.
Kathie

Siobhán said...

It looks great, Kaaren! Frankie does a great job modeling it. ;)

Jenny's Place Online said...

I agree with Frankie... it looks 'purr-fect' :) Happy crafting, Jenny

Marit Johanne said...

Your quilt is beautiful! I liked the colors very much.

Mumbly52 said...

The scallop border is a great idea! It would add a nice finished touch. I have "kitty helpers", too. I found an inexpensive cat bed at a discount store and put it on the corner of my sewing table; amazingly, they are happy snuggled up in there instead of playing with the thread! Hope you are feeling well.

Darlene said...

There's nothing like the simplicity of a classic nine patch - yours is fabulous, Kaaren. I have the same pile of nine patches - hmmmm!

pinsandneedles said...

I love the simplicity of a 9 patch...just lovely! I think a scalloped edge would be delightful on this quilt.

The Inspired Stitcher said...

I agree with the others, a wide scallop border would be really nice on this quilt. I can't wait to see what you decide.

edyB said...

Woo Hoo ~ the quilt is beautiful!
So is that kitty!

Lots of hugs going your way!

Anonymous said...

Frankie!!!!!!!! I've been missing way too many post and when I saw this adorable kitty I was so confused! How did I miss your post?!!!! Dang cute...I couldn't get a thing done with that sweet guy running about the place!! Love the name!!!
I love the simplicity of your quilt and I'd been thinking of setting mine the same way only I had a small reddish print pulled out and set aside the with blocks. I like the tan...hmmmmm...might be a copy cat here. Frankie won't mind will he? LOL

Rhonda said...

I like your 9-patch! Very nice! Praying things will go well for you in your health concerns. :)

Quilts And Pieces said...

Oh a wonderful finish! If you want to learn scallops then I say go for it! Frankie is a doll!

S said...

Beautiful quilt and I love that bedframe too.

Sew Create It - Jane said...

What a lovely quilt that is going to be. I think a big wide border would finish it off beautifully.

Been reading your older posts and getting caught up on your news. Sounds like they doctors are being very careful. I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for good news.

EllenaElizabeth said...

Love the colours. Thanks for posting.

Susan said...

Oh, another winner.... and soon to be a warm soft hug to ward off the chill of winter.......

I know you feel better now that some stitching is done. It is always a good pick me up.....

Kiwifruit-Shiree said...

hello Kaaren,
your quilt is looking fabulous, I am sure you are really proud of this, it looks great on your bed. Scallops would give it a lovely finish, depends on what you feel like doing really. whatever you choose it still looks fab! Big hugs right at ya!!

Shari said...

Lovely to have the top nearly finished. Looks so charming on that bed. Frankie makes a good model.

Sandy said...

A beautiful quilt, Kaaren. I love the simplicity of a nine-patch. We enjoyed your recipe.and thank you for sharing. Prayers to you.

Vickie said...

This is a great quilt! I think a scalloped border will make it even more interesting! I love it! Frankie is adorable! I think your pies look amazing!(from another post)

suz said...

I think the beauty of this quilt is it's simplicity. I'd leave it as it and let Mary to her magic. I'm a true believer in "less is more" - great job.

Markirhen said...

Karen this is beautiful.. I love it.
Congratulation .

Martha ( Costa Rica )

Gail said...

Hi Karen,
I love the quilt top, it came out beautiful and I hope your going to put in on that old iron bed when it comes back from the longarm. Even as a flimsy it looks perfect in that room's setting.

I would add the extra border, wide enough so you could get your scallops in. I tend to like a lot of side drop on bed quilts but that's me. Can't wait to see it quilted.

Gail

Chookyblue...... said...

wow great to see your Nine Patch together..........I still have to make mine but I have an idea..........just need time to get it together..........

Clothed in Scarlet said...

Hi Kaaren, I started following your blog awhile ago. I usually pop over around the first of the month ;o) and just wanted to say that you are in my thoughts and prayers. How neat is it, that when a person takes the time to share their life on a blog that others get to know them a little and feel a little bit involved in that person life:o) Be blessed Sarah

Stitched With Prayer said...

Oh Kaaren, It has been far too long since I have commented on your blog, though I have been lurking for months...health issues, I know you can relate. Your quilt is gorgeous. I love traditional too. I love sampler quilts with the simpler blocks, though I've done a couple with blocks that had a zillion tiny pieces each and they are nice, but that traditional nine patch is really speaking to me. I haven't sewn on a quilt in months and I want so badly to do something easy but fun and lovely and you have inspired me once again. I'm going to try to make tomorrow a sewing day. Thanks so much for sharing your lovely quilt with us. Keeping you in prayer. Hugs...

Elinor said...

Oh yes, I love this nine patch quilt ! :-)
Hugs to you and your kitty (I love cats too) !

Sandy said...

Love your nine patch....so cozy and comfy looking. And your quiche from the previous post looks so yummy I may have to try it soon. Hubby likes meat, so may make one with sausage or grd. meat and mine with the veggies.
Prayers for good news soon and the waiting game to be over.

V A N I A said...

It's simply beautiful!!!!!!!!!
i love it so much and it's a fantastic idea !!! j love nine patch always!
ciao vania

Stina Blomgren said...

Nice to see your new friend Frankie!!! What a sweetheart!!
The quilt is just wonderful.. and with Mary´s magical quilting it will be even greater!! Wonder what she will quilt on it.. long to see!

Elizabeth and Gary said...

Hi Kaaren,
I just found your lovely blog..and I have been lost in it for hours now, just reading post after post..
I am new to quilting and just finished my third quilt. I dream of quilts and fabric LOL.
Its been a pleasure meeting you today and I have become your newest follower via email..
Have a sweet day,
Elizabeth from: www.athomewithelizabethgary.blogspot.com (Home is Where the Heart is)

Susannah said...

Love your 9 patch, Kaaren. It is going to be lovely. I can't wait to see it all finsished.

Susannah

Ter'e said...

I keep peeking in to read an update. I feel like everyone is sleeping.......even the girls.......
Sure am missing my precious Kaaren fix.
shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Beertje Zonn said...

That is a gorgeous quilt!

Bear hugs from Beertje Zonn

Quiltgal said...

Kaaren, your quilt is beautiful. I will be the descenting vote, I think that with the simplicity of this quilt a scalloped border might be too much, I like the idea suggested of a gentle wave, or even a plan straight border. Your Quilt is a real beauty.

Bunny said...

Love that quilt. I have been thinking about you. Hope you are doing well. I have not been on line blogging or visiting much lately. Been busy and now waiting for my rotator cuff surgery on Sept.2. Know you have been in my prayers and on my mind.

Bunny said...

Oops you might like to put an applique border to make it a bit larger. I have one on the go and fun to do.

Shakerwood said...

That looks so like you and looks to fit in your home just perfectly! Glad you got some sewing time. If you are like me, I often head to the sewing room for some major relaxation time. Somehow it brings me peace. (and piece LOL)

marian said...

i'm not one for frills & such like either and i'm loving your perfectly scrappy 'vintage' nine-patch, Kaaren!! perhaps an additional border would make it a little bigger but i think it's perfect just as it is, why create more work for yourself lol!! hugz, Marian

annemariesquilt said...

I am so happy to see that you are working on a Nine Patch quilt, will it be finished in time to 1 september when Nine Patch challenge closes??
Have fun and take care..