How many types of graph paper do you own? This weekend, I was struck by the depth of my graph paper collection. I mean, how did I manage to collect so many different kinds? Anyways, I was rifling through them because I needed to start designing a commissioned memorial quilt for a family friend. This is the third commissioned memorial piece I've taken on and I'm never quite sure where the quilt journey is going to take me. I sit down with the client and talk about their love ones. They hand me photos, bags of clothing and memories. I try to look all confident but it all seems a bit overwhelming.
So the first step is to start sorting the fabric, so that I can get a feel of the direction the quilt is going to be. While I was making piles, I found a ton of plaids and stripes - a lot of neutral, earthy colors - hints of red here and there. It just all felt very male. I never worry about the fabric type - that is another day's problem.
Then I sat down at my work table with my favorite pencil set and a big piece of graph paper and just stare at the blocks until ideas come to me. I want something with direction for this quilt - very traditional - large enough to cover a bed. I want there to be spaces enough to highlight treasured t-shirts, photos, maybe quotes and dates. I want the design to reflect the person. . . simple. . .hard working. . . .male. After a couple of hours, this is what I came up with. It doesn't mean that the quilt will end up exactly like this - but at least its a start!
More great design walls at Judy's Patchworks!
I love the design you have created. I am starting on a T shirt quilt in the next week or so. I look forward to watching your progress ;)
ReplyDeleteI like your design quite a lot. I think there is one thing though which might be bothering me: the horizontal rows of flying geese go clockwise, while the vertical rows of flying go counter-clockwise. Overall, really nice design.
ReplyDeleteI love graph paper and pencil too! I like your medallion design and can just picture how you described fitting in other memorable items around the piecing. Terrific.
ReplyDeleteI admire people who can plan out a quilt and think through all the details...I just can't envision things this way. Your design looks great to me!
ReplyDeleteOMG Frances - you are so right - didn't even think or catch that! Thanks so much I'll make the change!
ReplyDeleteKathy - you know its all about work style - I kinda think that I'm so structured that I get a bit OCD with it. Even when I'm making a quilt that is suppose to "evolve" I still have some kind of little sketch so I have an idea where I'm going. I'm not quite sure if this design will end up like this though!
ReplyDeleteI only have about four types of graph paper,all inherited from my Mother. I found it most usfull in twice planning the move of a flower shop where many lineal yards of counters and fixtures had to be laid out exactly, and ahead of the move. Did it in two days over a long weekend with no loss of working business days. Apparently this was unheard of in the industry here in our area.
ReplyDeleteYay graph paper!