Technically I began actual cutting on this panel on August 17, but even before then I had been hyperventilating for a few weeks working up my courage to begin. As you can see I am chancing a slightly softer color palette here and still wonder if the dark trees will end up being too strong a contrast. Maybe I can't know that until I get to some of the other blocks and panels, but feel free to offer your thoughts. This panel also represents dozens of experiments based on all your generous process comments--back basting, glue basting, tracing the background or not, Masterpiece thread vs. YLI. Not all of the experiments worked, but at least I have settled into a more comfortable way to work now. My friend Leland reminds me I am not making a show quilt and shouldn't stress too much about beginning lumps and bumps, but I do anyway and keep trying to measure up to Janet's beautiful work, as well as the work of so many of you.
I'm working on corner blocks next, and then I'll tackle another of the panels. I am loving (almost) every stitch I take!
Marion your panel is Beautiful..I wouldn't change the Trees..I Think they look Fine..if that's what you are Happy with then they stay..I have also tried some of the Techniques of others & have come back to My usual way of Applique...my Motto is: If I am Happy with my Fabric Choices & the Finished Block - Well that's all that Matters!
ReplyDeletecheers
Great house and chimneys.
ReplyDeleteYour entire panel works beautifully together. I think your color choices are wonderful. Michele
ReplyDeleteMarion, the panel looks wonderful! Love the pink ribbon, hope all is going well. Isn't it fun trying all these different applique techiques and then finding the one that just works.
ReplyDeleteHappy Stitching and you take care!
Cheri
Love it love it what more can I say, I still haven't started mine as I am working on a different Kim pattern.
ReplyDeletecheers
Christine
Marion, no need to worry about your panel measureing up, it is Brilliant
ReplyDelete( with a capital B).
I also noticed the added ribbon.
Your panel looks absolutely scrumptious Marion, wouldn't change a thing! Love your fabric choices, I think the corn row fabric for the chimney looks great there. well done, keep up the good work. Kim McLO
ReplyDeleteI love the chimney fabric too. And the kitty, and the fussy-cut blooms on the bushes in front. A triumph! And I can confirm that Marion spent a lot of time planning these fabrics--isn't it a wild success?
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate your comments, everyone. And Kim, I think it's funny that you call the chimney fabric "corn row." That's probably what it is, but I have always thought of it as baby beads:-) I used it to border Kaffe's octagon roses which I made for a friend's baby!
ReplyDeleteI have made it through Round #1 (of 4) of chemo. Thanks for noticing the ribbon. I find I have LOTS of time for applique now.
I think your panel is great, Marion! As far as the blue trees being too dark, I think they actually make your softer colors work wonderfully by providing a contrast that gives them emphasis too. As long as your other blocks use similar fabrics and variety, I think it'll be great. The variation makes the panel interesting to look at. You've got great fussy cuts too--love your kitties, the little flowers/circles, all the little birds, the chimneys, and more. Can you tell I really like your panel?! ;)
ReplyDeleteBravo Marion, Bravo! And good luck with chemo!
ReplyDeleteDear Marion,
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful! It is so happy and cheerful, and I, too, love that blue corn! I've been trying to find a spot somewhere for that very fabric.
What I like the most is your use of yellow! I love yellow in quilts!
God bless you as you tackle that chemo and fight the brave fight.
hugs,
brenda
oh Marion the block is beautiful, the fabric choices are great! YOU ARE BEING TOO HARD ON YOURSELF!!!! Lighten up it truly looks wonderful and yes the quilt is for you! I don't make quilts for shows or judging I make them for myself.
ReplyDeleteKeep going can't wait to see your next one!
Kathie
your panel is so beautiful,, this is such a fun process, and I'm glad that you are not stressing out about where to put the fabrics or what colors to use, because we definitely can see the beauty in your block. I am finding it so much fun to just cut the fabric out and put it there. No stress, happy happy happy playing with the fabrics. I am hoping to finish my first lollipop today.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely LOVE your panel! The softer color of the house makes the smaller details show up better. It will look great with the pink corner blocks you planned too?
ReplyDeleteI hope you are tolerating the chemo ok?
(((hugs)))
Your blocks is gorgeous!!! I love the pastel version and your darker trees are it's crowning glory - fantastic contrast and balance. But relax ... first remember that every one has their own definition of perfection ... the most important thing is to enjoy the journey to defining your own.
ReplyDeleteWell done Marion with the chemo - you're doing happy things and that is impotant. Good luck! Kim McL
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't change a thing, it looks fantastic. I think the darker trees look great, you need some value difference so it won't look flat. I really love the softer look a lot, hard for me to do but you excelled. Keep going when you can and all the best for your treatment procees.
ReplyDeleteA PoSiTiVeLy SPECTACULAR panel, Marion!!! I LOVE your use of softer Kaffe fabrics. : ) Brilliant use and not easily done. Those trees are a wonderful contrast and not too strong. They're 'just right'!
ReplyDeleteI also LOVE how you have personalized YOUR quilt - colors, the ribbon, etc. You GO!!! Hugs!!!