Inspired by Heather Jones' "big block" quilts (see my recent book review of Heather's new book ~ Quilt Local ~ here) I thought I would try my hand at designing and making my own big block quilt. I am using the term "big block" quilt casually here, and in this instance I am really referring to simple, large scale designs based on a traditional patchwork quilt blocks. There are many patchwork blocks suitable for such large scale representation.
Once I had worked out my design I realized that there were many opportunities for color play, and then of course I couldn't make just one quilt. The two quilt tops came together quickly! All fabrics used for the quilt tops are Robert Kaufman Kona Cotton including Kona White and Kona Pepper (my preferred colorway for black solid fabric).
And then the quilting ... I have quilted an all over grid of (edge to edge) intersecting lines to complement the simple design and at the same time add texture. The quilting lines are closely spaced - approximately 3/4" apart - and I have used a quilting guide attached to the walking foot as a stitching guide, and I have also marked lines with a soluble fabric marker in the borders.
In order to promptly remove the marked lines from the quilt - and because I am fairly impatient - I dunked both quilts in a large tub, spun them in the washing machine to remove excess water, then tumble dried and also air dried the quilts outside. It sure helps when it is 40C/104F outside! All photos are of the washed and dried quilts.
For the back of the quilts I have used Newspaper in Spackle from the Story Collection by Carrie Bloomston. The binding fabric is Robert Kaufman Kona Cotton in Pepper.
Both these quilts are for sale and have been listed in my Etsy Store.
See the listing details here:
These two quilts were so fun to make. It is a change from my usual scrappy quilt style but I do enjoy working with solid fabric and I like that there are still many of my own preferred design elements including the quilting and the use of traditional patchwork blocks. A great way to start the year.
Rita
RELEVANT LINKS:
Red Pepper Quilts Etsy Store
More Kona Cotton projects
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