If you remember, the Country Charmer quilt was designed by Lovely Lynn, over at Sew'n Wild Oaks, and this do-it-at-your own-pace quiltalong is being hosted by Laissez-faire Lesley the Cuddle Quilter.
So, what I have been up to this month? Well previously, I was cutting the pieces for one block, then sewing it together before cutting for the next block as this seemed to work best for me as a non-scrappy quilter. Then I had a brainwave. Why not cut one set of pieces from each fabric I planned to use, then use the layout sheet to mix and match them up for a block and put the block in a bag, then repeat for another block and carry on until I had all the blocks I needed. This is when I had another light-bulb moment. I remembered that Mr Fixit had made me a cutting table of sorts a couple of years ago which I had not been using cos I'd forgotten about it. I knew that my back would just not put up with the sort of cutting marathon my plan was going to involve so I asked him to set it up for me, then off I went, wielding my rotary cutter at the speed of light and ending up with this:
So, what I have been up to this month? Well previously, I was cutting the pieces for one block, then sewing it together before cutting for the next block as this seemed to work best for me as a non-scrappy quilter. Then I had a brainwave. Why not cut one set of pieces from each fabric I planned to use, then use the layout sheet to mix and match them up for a block and put the block in a bag, then repeat for another block and carry on until I had all the blocks I needed. This is when I had another light-bulb moment. I remembered that Mr Fixit had made me a cutting table of sorts a couple of years ago which I had not been using cos I'd forgotten about it. I knew that my back would just not put up with the sort of cutting marathon my plan was going to involve so I asked him to set it up for me, then off I went, wielding my rotary cutter at the speed of light and ending up with this:
which soon became this
then all those little piles went into their own bags. Now all I have to do when I want to work on the quilt is pick up one bag, and I'm ready to start sewing. While the table was up by the way I also cut out another quilt and several smaller projects, which is my way of trying to explain why I have not made much progress on the blocks this month. This is where I am so far though, and I still love the quilt.
Our hostess, Lesley is having a Linky party today, so to see more Country Charmer quilts in progress, just hop over to here.
You are working this at a great progress - it is suppose to be at a relaxed pace, so what works for you.
ReplyDeleteYour blocks look great Sue. My back is always the first thing to "go" when I'm cutting. Your table sounds just perfect for you. For not being a scrappy quilter, you are doing a fabulous job!
ReplyDeleteLooks like your assembly line style is working Sue!
ReplyDeletePerfect! I thought about this and another couple of options for future reference! Sounds like you had a bit of a Buggy Barn moment. Cut all the pieces, then shuffle! I'm with you on the back thing! I covet my friends kitchen island. It's solid surface granite and the perfect height. She also has wonderful stools which I'm grateful for when I need a breather.
ReplyDeleteNow...my dear...come closer so I can throw something at you! (Wink)
Oh, Sue, looks like you found the perfect answer. Your blocks are gorgeous...what a stunning quilt you will have. Thanks for linking up with us!
ReplyDeleteWonderful blocks.
ReplyDeleteGrit from Germany
It's looking great and am glad you are progressing so fast as I'm not. For someone who 's not comfortable with scrappy, you're doing well.
ReplyDeleteI just love your Country Charmer blocks Sue ! You are making great progress :-D
ReplyDeleteYour quilt is looking quite nice. Love your blocks.
ReplyDeleteWell, with your Country Charmer quilt cut out, and another one in the wings you'll be spending a bit of time at the sewing machine. I look forward to seeing what comes from your cutting marathon.
ReplyDeleteI like the way that your Country Charmer is looking.
Wow love your organisation! It must feel good to have all that cutting done and things all prepared ready to sew.
ReplyDeleteYou are great progress Sue! Your ideas are wonderful and thank you. Your blocks are beautiful and will come together quickly now. Wonderful inspiration .
ReplyDeleteBeautiful blocks, Sue! I love the colors. I'm going to wish I had joined you in making this one.
ReplyDeleteGood for you finding a way to be scrappy! Glad your DH's cutting arrangement has been working out so well for you. Love the blogs and the concept too.
ReplyDeleteI think simply saying LOVE says it all. Great blocks!!! This is going to be so pretty.
ReplyDelete