Most every quilter has them.....those pesky orphan blocks that they just don't know what to do with. Odd shapes, sizes, patterns that didn't quite work out right, colors that don't work out the way we planned, or ones that we 'inherited' from someone else. I suspect for most of us they just sit in totes or boxes waiting patiently for us to be struck with inspiration on how to make the most of these gems in the rough.
I have my share of orphan blocks, I'll take them out every so often to look at and play with and think about what to do with them. Most of them have been stubbornly silent tho so they remain in my tote of orphan blocks. Occasionally though some of them will start whispering to me about what they'd like to be when they grow up. This week two of my little orphans decided it was time to tell me their dreams of greatness. The first block to speak to me was one that passed onto my by an online friend. It was a lovely fan block, but in colors that I rarely ever use. I'd been working on various tote bags over the weekend and had pulled out a very soft looking plaid in blueish-grey and tan. The block looked great up against the plaid. So I ended up quilting it after backing it w/muslin. Then attached it as the outer pocket on the tote bag. Haven't decided what i'm going to do with this, might sell it, might give it as a gift.
Another happy little ex-orphan as of tonite is this little sailboat block that now has a home on a baby bib. This will be going with a stack of other bibs as a baby shower gift for a gal at the store.
So two orphans are orphaned no longer, and I have fewer 'voices' clamoring at me to do something with them. Wonder what will speak to me next demanding their turn at the sewing machine?
Gratitudes:
1. Being able to sleep in bed for a few hours even tho I'm still croupy with bronchitis
2. Meds that are helping to bring everything back under control
I how you get better soon! No fun to be sick. Your orphan blocks came to life in a beautiful way!
ReplyDeleteYes, meds are wonderful when we need them. I am happy to see that your orphans have found a home.
ReplyDeleteThe block DID turn out to be perfect on the tote! I like that you quilted it, too. The sailboat is cutest thing ever. She's going to love those bibs, and they will be so handy, too.
ReplyDeleteget well wishes coming your way moira...and i love your BOM...the cross stitch piece caught my eye as i have that pattern and have been drooling over it every now and then...so lovely to see it finished in such beautiful colors...
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