Last month, I paid $10 to my local quilt shop, and was given the fabric and instructions to make two 12" quilt blocks. As long as I complete each month's blocks, I get the next month's for free. So, an entire queen- sized quilt top for $10 (plus you have to provide some fabric for background and setting triangles). But that's not the important part, the main thing is that I get to have some time to myself once a month. It's just 90 minutes, including driving back and forth, but heck! I'll take it. In fact, I hadn't even seen what the quilt was going to look like, or what fabrics were being used, and I signed up. I didn't care if it was hideous, flourescent orange or grey (no offense to flourescent orange or grey lovers out there), I get to do something I love and get away from everyone in my family for one guaranteed moment every month. I can't contain my excitement!
While they aren't fabrics I would immediately be drawn to, I do like the way the blocks look. Maybe I'll end up giving away the final product, because I think it's a bit too feminine for my husband's taste, and a bit too traditional for mine, but like I said, I really don't care. I'm just in it for the relaxation.
I'm handpiecing all of these, as I almost always do, and I find that the most time consuming part is drawing all the quarter inch seam lines on the backs of the individual pieces. I think at this point, I could probably eyeball it all and still maintain a pretty consistent seam allowance, but I guess I don't trust myself and still find myself using a little ruler, my sandpaper board (just fine grit sandpaper and a clipboard) and fine line mechanical pencil.
Haven't even started on the blocks that are due April 7, but, whatever. That's eons away, isn't it?
What a wonderful way to spend some time for yourself! You're even doing something that you love :)
Posted by: Mirre | Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 03:24 PM
Its wonderful that you're carving out some time for yourself. Your blocks are lovely.
Posted by: Felicia | Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 03:30 PM
Your blocks look so nice and I'm impressed that you are handpiecing them!
Posted by: Beth | Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 04:20 PM
The blocks are looking great! And I agree, it's so important to have some time to yourself. It's a bonus that you get to do something that you love during that time and you're also sharpening/learning your skills.
Posted by: Jhoanna | Sunday, March 25, 2007 at 04:47 AM