My First Quilt- A Wedding Gift

 When Drew’s sister and her fiancé got engaged, I thought I would make them a wedding gift. A few months later, she asked me to be a bridesmaid so yes, I would definitely make them a gift! I planned on making a quilt about a year ago. I started a ton of research then but after I couldn’t find a suitable pattern or fabric collection, I let the idea go.

A month ago, around the same time I was working on the Sparkle Dress, I found The Nomadic Tapestry by April Rhodes. I was simply looking at fabrics when this lovely little quilt crossed my eyes. The size was smaller, like a lap quilt, the perfect size to take on picnics or hikes. The fabric, fun and stunning – colors of adventure! Which is perfect for them! That night I ordered the fabric.

As this was my first quilt experience, it was also my first experience only needing 1/4 yard pieces of fabric. Did you know that most online fabric stores DON’T let you order just a 1/4 yard? It’s a half yard minimum! I found a fabulous little etsy shop that had all the fabrics I needed in stock and was willing to do a very complicated custom order for me. (I totally recommend Heather’s shop if you are in the market for fabrics)

I had two weeks to make the quilt, and finished the hand binding just in time to take it to my parent’s farm for a photo shoot. Following April’s instructions, the project was a breeze. It was a very long process, but kind of calming. Quilting is really just straight seams and careful placement of fabrics… at least this quilt was.

The actual quilting part was left up to the maker, as the pattern didn’t tell you how to do that. After a little google image searching, the easiest quilting pattern I knew I was capable of was diagonals (diamonds?). I don’t know if it’s a little too distracting from the fabrics, but I do like the result.

I also had a few photo shoot interruptions, but I couldn’t be mad cause they were all so cute! Although, I did have to run to take the quilt off the fence because I thought the sheep would eat it. And the cat… well, who doesn’t want to see an adorable kitten?

I’m happy this project came together and it is something I am proud to give to the couple! Their wedding is this Friday (thankfully neither follow my blog so I am able to share this before giving it) and I’m excited to be part of their special day! It is also the very first time I will get to see Drew in a bow tie and I can’t wait to see how freaking cute he looks! I have been wanting Drew to wear bow ties for years.

I don’t know if I will make another quilt anytime soon. I didn’t have time to make my sister a quilt for her wedding, so when she starts popping out babies, I’ll make quilts for them. I really like quicker projects and apparel has more instant gratification. Have you tried quilting? Which do you like better, apparel or quilts?