30 March, 2012

One Hour A Day...

 ...and one page at a time, Sundance and I are slowly working our way through this book:
and adding some new freehand filler quilting patterns to the repertoire. I was so inspired by all of the incredible quilting at our recent quilt show; I made the decision to dedicate myself to improving my own long arm quilting skills by putting in serious time with Sundance. An hour here and there, every other week, are NOT going to cut it; I know that it is going to take a firm time commitment and a dedicated spirit... I am ready, with both; and there's no time like RIGHT NOW.
I bought the book at Mid Atlantic Quilt Festival last month. Modern Quilting Designs by Bethany Pease offers large example pages that are easy for me to mimic and follow along. Easy subsequent page builds on skills mastered on previous pages and increases in difficulty level. I divided up a muslin practice quilt into twelve inch squares and have been filling each block with a new (to me) pattern before moving on. I can see the progress and feel my confidence growing. I even caught myself doodling last evening while I was waiting for water to boil, apparently I have stimulated that area of my brain into action... a very good thing!
I have twelve completed quilt tops hanging in the closet, waiting to be quilted. I am excited to try something new on them; but, for today, I am still putting in my practice time... one hour, and one page, at a time. 
Wish me luck~
Life is Good!




11 comments:

Carrie P. said...

One page and hour at a time sounds like a great way to learn some new stuff. Have fun.

Nane said...

I wish I had an ounce of your discipline! I am sure your next few tops will be fun as your explore your new patterns.

Teresa in Music City said...

Looking good! And you will be so glad you put in the time to practice when your quilts turn out really gorgeous!!!

Quiltdivajulie said...

I always knew you had this gift in you . . . happy that you and Sundance are unlocking it!

AnnieO said...

New quilting designs are oh so nice to have in one's repertoire! Great idea to break it up into small blocks for practice.

Becky G said...

Lovely! Your focus & commitment are inspiring.... Looking forward to following you in this adventure. Hope you get to enjoy this amazingly beautiful spring day... B

LizA. said...

What a great idea. I'm like you--my poor HandiQuilter gets used rather infrequently and it seems I'm always having to re-learn. I should try this.....

Janet O. said...

Good idea, Mrs. G. Though I don't have a longarm, I need to do the same with my midarm. I know lack of confidence is one of the things holding me back from getting more quilting accomplished!

Salem Stitcher said...

I think I must find that book.

45th Parallel Quilter said...

What (or who) is Sundance? You have my curiosity raised ;-)

Paula, the quilter said...

I bet that would work on a DSM too. Hmmmm...
Thanks for making me think about it.