I didn't have either the time or desire to start on a new project since I was asked to design a line of fabric for Blank Quilting about six short weeks ago.
The package containing the proofs that I was waiting for arrived on Thursday. I was totally blown away with how well they understood and interpreted my vision with respect to the final appearance of the fabric.
Now that they've been given my stamp of approval with respect to the artwork and color...with only a few minor changes...I decided it was time to take the plunge and dive into a new project. So on Friday, I started cutting out the pieces for Leanne Beasley's "Journey of a Quilter" using fabrics from the 'Provencial' line by Iron Orchid for Clothworks.
NOTE: I've had several requests as to where both the 'Journey of a Quilter' and 'Down in the Garden' patterns can be purchased. If you didn't get a direct response from me, it's because you're showing up as a "no-reply" blogger. The designer is Leanne Beasley from Australia. If you Google her name, on her website in the left column is a list of shops from around the world that carry her patterns. Failing that, my only other suggestion is to email Leanne directly. I got my 'Down in the Garden' patterns from a friend in Australia who purchased the patterns for me from one of the local shops and sent them to me. I was lucky enough to have a nearby friend lend me her copies of 'Journey of a Quilter'.
When I purchased this fabric, I really liked it...
And still do!
But it is so NOT me!
As I was ironing, touching and admiring the half yard cuts, I found that I was not getting as excited as I usually do when starting into something new. But I persisted, all the while telling myself that they'll grow on me and to relax and enjoy the little journey out of my comfort zone.
I cut out and prepped the pieces for three of the nine blocks yet that "buzz" just wasn't happening. So last night I decided to abandon ship...not with making the quilt...but with my choice of fabrics.
Lesson learned...again!
I feel that we devote too much time and effort into making our quilts, so why continue with something that I wouldn't be totally happy with in the end? We all have our comfort zones and I'm a firm believer that if you're happy and comfortable with something...whether it be color, style, design or whatever...then why try changing things just for the sake of change?
So it's back to square one. I'm not saying that I'll never use these fabrics for something else but for this particular quilt, it's time to pull those "me" fabrics from my stash and to start over.
*sigh*
Will I ever learn?
Probably not.
*sigh*
Happy stitching!
16 comments:
Good for you. I agree - there's too much time and money invested into our quilts for us to make something that we're not totally happy with.
I've done that too many times and just cannot make myself love the quilt, but they make great gifts! There is always someone who will LOVE the fabrics. I think the fabrics you have are so romantic looking. They will eventually make a gorgeous quilt.
I hope you find the perfect pattern for you lovely fabrics. I do understand, seems like whenever I start something new none of the fabrics I have "feel" right. No need to devote so much time to a project you lack enthusiasm for, so off I go to get new fabric. Thank goodness for scrappy quilts and small projects to use up my stash 😊
OMGosh...it looks like a Spring Garden is happening on your cutting table!! SEW beautiful! Maybe snow needs to be on the ground before you appreciate the beauty of those roses? haha
I can't wait to see your fabric line! Can't imagine how excited you must be!!!
I know exactly what you mean.
Sewing is supposed to be fun, playing with the things we like.
You will be so happy with your "comfortable with" fabrics.
Greetings,
Sylvia
You made a wise decision and listened to your inner voice!
Same thing happened to me once too. Good for you for following your heart. Have fun. Nice to see you back at it again too. Hope you are feeling great.
I think the same way. If it does not hit just right then it will not be right.
Always be true to yourself...the right fabrics will soon sing to you. Enjoy the process in both ventures.
I've been there and done that as well, Kaaren. I'm happy to hear you've moved on to something that really calls your name! In the meantime, are you interesting is selling that fabric? I'd gladly pay the international shipping and take it off your hands! Let me know.!
Cheers!
Good call! This will truly be YOUR Journey of a Quilter project. Since it's your journey, it should reflect your style & taste. I'm sure you'll make it your own!
If you aren't loving it, it won't be a joyful "journey" for you as a quilter. I'm glad you are going to follow your personal tastes (since they are so similar to mine *LOL*). Can't wait to see your new fabric selection.
Totally agree - if they fabrics don't 'talk' you will never truly love the resulting quilt.
Good to read the fabric designs are going ahead. using the right fabric is essential, like reading a good book, if you are not enjoying the journey no point in continuing with it I say
I understand perfectly. I admire you for even trying to move outside of your comfort zone. I have trouble even considering it! Can't wait to see your new line of fabric. Enjoy your new project.
I so agree. Anytime I try to step outside the type of fabrics "I Like", I just can't bring myself to put the time into finishing the project. We do spend way too much time on our quilts to spend it quilting something we don't love. So glad to know I'm not the only one that has thought this.
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