Midwinter Blues

Hello everyone! I had a birthday recently and with it came this marvelous quilt from Barb Vedder. You may recognize it as Midwinter Blues, a pattern designed by Lori DeJarnatt for her 2014 Humble Quilts sew-along. 

Aren't Barb's fabrics exquisite? I've never seen such deep, saturated blues or bold cheddar prints. Double-click photos for more detail.

All those patchwork points and angles make for a "lively" quilt, especially when high contrast fabrics like these are used. Barb managed to reduce some of that energy with a couple clever tricks.

Choosing a design like teacup quilting, with its gentle, flowing curves, literally "takes the edge off" the angular patchwork itself. 

Second, she swapped her usual cotton thread with silk thread, her machine quilting practically melts into the background leaving just a hint of texture behind. 

Barb always chose this lovely patriotic print for the back--"E pluribus unum" or "Out of many, one." 

As you can see, the quilt was originally made for Barb's dear friend, Mary B. After Mary passed away, Barb thought I might enjoy having it. Thanks, Barb. You bet I will! XO

 

If you'd like to make your own Midwinter Blues quilt, instructions can be found on Lori DeJarnatt's  Humble Quilts blog: 

Part 1   Part 2   Part 3   Finale.