What Goes Around, Comes Around

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 only to find a block I’d given Barb a few years earlier. “Wait... What?” It took me a moment to realize she’d transformed it into this stunning quilt! 

The pattern is from Applique with Folded Cutwork by Anita Shackelford. Since I'd taken a workshop with her, I was eager to tackle something more advanced like a four block appliquéd wallhanging. Unfortunately, my hands got the better of me partway through the first block (MS), and I had to ask for help. 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! ❤️