I have been looking forward to making this particular quilt for some time; it is inspired by a quilt that I saw at the American Folk Art Museum in New York City back in 2010:
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| Hummingbirds Quilt Artist Unknown Indiana 1920-1930 |
It seems the traditional name for this quilt block is Hummingbirds but it is also known as Periwinkle, Four Pointed/On-Point Star. I think I am going to go with the Hummingbirds name - which is also the name of the above Amish quilt. [Check out this short YouTube Video: Hummingbirds Quilt by Elizabeth Warren - Exhibition Curator for more information about this quilt.]
I used EQ7 to draft up the block and decided that for me foundation paper piecing was the best way to sew this particular block. Each block is made up of four foundations and although it was slow going I do admit that I actually enjoy paper piecing. I like structure and routine as well as the accuracy that comes effortlessly with paper piecing.
I have enjoyed choosing fabrics and as my block is fairly small (5.5 inches x 5.5 inches) I have used primarily small scale prints as well as some solid fabrics for a stronger contrast. I haven't as yet sewn any of the blocks together but what I did do was ensure that all seams will nest together when I do start sewing the blocks together into a quilt top.
I am working on making the foundation paper piecing pattern for this block available as a free download (hopefully by the end of this week) together with details for successful project completion. So much to do, so little time!
Thank you for stopping by,
Rita
RELEVANT LINKS:
American Folk Art Museum - visit in 2010
Hummingbird Block Tutorial and Foundation Paper Piecing Templates
The Finished Hummingbird Quilt
