Hello everyone! I've finally reached an age where all I want for my birthday is not to be reminded of it, unless of course, it’s with a birthday quilt from my friend, Barb Vedder. For that, I’ll own up to each and every one of my advancing years!
Imagine my surprise when I opened this year's package from Barb only to find a block I’d given her a few years ago. “Wait... What?” It took a moment for me to realize she’d transformed it into a stunning little quilt!
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The pattern is by Anita Shackelford from her book Applique with Folded Cutwork. I'd taken a workshop with her and thought I was ready to tackle something more advanced. Boy, was I wrong! My hands clenched up like vice grips when I attempted the appliqué. Our friend, Kathy Smith, was kind enough to complete the block in time for me to send it to Barb for her birthday.
Notice Barb's use of echo quilting, a traditional Hawaiian technique that outlines the appliqué with concentric rows of stitching. Machine quilting with silk thread also adds a subtle elegance to the overall design.
On the back is a tribute to Barb's former stomping ground, New York City.
Thank you for this tremendous surprise Barb! I imagine it was as hard for you to part with as it originally was for me. The best gifts always are! ❤️
