I wish I had used a solid color fabric for the inside blocks, so the 'chain' effect would have shown. I used an Eleanor Burns pattern to make this quilt; the quilt in her book was blue and white and it showed up so much better. It was an easy quilt to make and I'll definitely use this pattern again. I'll just pick my fabrics more carefully.
I decided to baste the layers together this time, instead of using safety pins. I had to snip a few threads as they would catch under my quilting foot, but all in all, I think my quilt was much smoother on the back than usual.
I have to show you the thread I used to baste with.. how old do you think this thread might be? I bought it in Greenville, NC many years ago. That store as been closed for a very long time. Do Piece Goods Stores still exist anywhere? This was a spool I had given to my grandmother as part of a gift (a future post) many years ago. It will be perfect for basting quilts!
I was not happy at all with the back of the quilt before I washed it. Thanks goodness for the 'crinkle' effect when it comes out of the dryer. (although I don't always like the crinkle look, I did this time!!) I used a different color thread in the bobbin....variegated blue on top, cream color in the bobbin. When I finished, there were blue specks everywhere on the back of the quilt. It's probably a 'tension' thing, but I wasn't sure how to fix it. Thankfully, when I washed and dried it, the blue specks were not nearly as noticeable. I also used flannel for batting instead of regular batting. It makes a nice lightweight 'summer' quilt, but I don't think I'll use it again.
I'm curious as to what type of batting you prefer: cotton, blends, poly....?? Do you ever use blankets? Do you prewash your batting? Do you like the crinkle look? Do any of you still hand quilt? (I miss hand quilting) Please leave a comment with your preferences and any advice you might have! Thanks!!
**Sheila, I can't find your email. Can you send me an email?**