Honestly, I was doing housework, but I have a very large pile of nine patches that keeps catching my eye in the sewing room......making me feel guilty that I haven't done anything with them since the swap finished last year.
I thought I'd start by sorting them into colour groups. The thing about swapping blocks is that you get some amazing colour combinations and some fabrics that you wouldn't even normally pick up. Result.....great variety.....but not every block makes the final cut. Fortunately with this swap there are so many blocks that I think I could make two or three quilts. However, I like a good bit of contrast in my quilts so I've started with the blocks with the greatest contrast. Here are some of them laid out.
I have surprised myself with the setting out. I originally thought I'd try something a bit fancy, at least with the blocks on point, but I've decided to use the simplest setting, just spaced with another 6" block.
With all those colours, choosing a background is HARD, although the carpet colour looks ok in the photo above (but maybe too safe?). I don't have a huge stash of yardage but I did have two particular pieces bought originally for backing which might do the job.
It's hard to capture the colour of the second one......kind of dark teal/grey/olive.......but most importantly, not like any of the fabrics in the blocks. What do you think? Should I give up the ridiculous notion of using what I have and just head straight to the patchwork shop?
Susan x
I don't think the decision will be any easier with an unlimited choice!!! The top one is the safer one, but the bottom works well - at least in the photo..depends if you want a lighter coloured finish or a more mellow one.
ReplyDeleteI love your blocks and think the bottom fabric makes the rest of the blocks pop! No matter what you choose it will be a lovely quilt.
ReplyDeleteLucky you with all of those 9-patches! I like the blue - I think it really shows off the pieced blocks - gives them lots of life.
ReplyDeleteHi Susan (I feel like I'm the odd one out here!). I think the second fabric gives it a bit more of a vintage feel about it. I'm sure what ever you pick will be lovely.
ReplyDeleteI like the second one!
ReplyDeleteBoth choices are lovely... I would have a hard time choosing. After going back and forth, I like the top fabric a bit better, but that's just me! Remember... it's your quilt to do what you like with!!!
ReplyDeleteI like the darker grey fabric
ReplyDeletei like the grey/blue one Susan as you have a family of men,i think the that one will go better in your home,good luck with your choice my friend.xx
ReplyDeleteThe darker one looks good but you could also use a floral or a Toile.
ReplyDeleteHi Susan, love the second colour fabric. It really makes your blocks stand out beautifully. The first one they just seem to disappear within it. Have fun deciding.
ReplyDeleteNo, use what you've got. I think the teal looks great. It will be a delightful quilt when finished.
ReplyDeleteI love the second fabric - really makes the blocks stand out......just my 2 cents worth :)
ReplyDeleteLooks good in both colours Susan but I think the 2nd one gives more depth to the blocks!
ReplyDeleteHi Susan - good on you - housework vs sewing, it's an easy choice!! While I like both of your options, I think perhaps the darker helps the colours to pop a little more - but it does depend what look you are after - sorry not much help am I?!!
ReplyDeletejust a thought, if you want to use what you have in scraps try an assortment of same size squares as all your fabric is beautiful
ReplyDeleteI like the blue grey it really enhances the blocks and a great colour for males.
ReplyDeleteI actually love both your choices. A simple 9 patch is one of my favourite types of quilt. Whatever you decide it us going to be beautiful x
ReplyDeleteI have gone back three times......I think the second one and to me it says "Susan"
ReplyDeleteI have been wondering how to work out mine so pleased to read your thought process.... It's great if you can use what you have and to be honest I like both your choices ... You just get a different look.
ReplyDeleteHugz
Decisions, decision....
ReplyDeleteI am so indecisive that I will be of no use at all.
love your selection of nine patch blocks
I like the first (safe) option so maybe the second choice will be more striking :)
ReplyDeleteYour second option - the darker one sets off the 9 patch blocks well - IMHO. But who can ever say a trip to the quilt shop is not needed? You may find a perfect binding fabric or more backing or the latest collection just arrived or........not much help am I?? :o)
ReplyDeleteYour second option - the darker one sets off the 9 patch blocks well - IMHO. But who can ever say a trip to the quilt shop is not needed? You may find a perfect binding fabric or more backing or the latest collection just arrived or........not much help am I?? :o)
ReplyDeleteI'd go with one of these fabrics..............goodluck deciding............
ReplyDeleteI can never think of a reason not to go to a patchwork shop....ever. But I do like the dark fabric. Does contrast well.
ReplyDeleteI definitely like the darker colour, if you have enough. Having said that I am not one to stop the opportunity/excuse for more fabric shopping!
ReplyDeleteBoth could work ... where will it live..?
ReplyDeleteYou're my hero, I admire you for walking away from the housework LOL
ReplyDeleteAs for fabric choices, I like them both, maybe the blue is a little bit more daring.... in a good way though!
My comment seemed to have got lost - it went something like this -
ReplyDeleteMy choice goes with the darker setting. The lighter one would make it look similar to your beautiful star quilt. A trip to the quilt shop could give you another option, could you live with not knowing?
I like the dark...makes your blocks pop!
ReplyDeleteI am not too good with choosing colours Susan, but I agree with your readers who suggest the 2nd fabric... shows off the blocks beautifully, and you have it already, so not even any shopping needed...
ReplyDeleteI love the darker background. Hugs
ReplyDelete