Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Group Quilt Finished



This is a quilt that was a group effort. We made it as a "Quilts of Valor" quilt to be donated. The big blocks were made by Kristi, Lynn, Ann, Pam and myself. Then, we got together to figure out how to put it together. We spent a few minutes discussing our options, then went shopping! We purchased the blue, and also the cream and red for the corner stars. We had a week to make the stars. Then we got together again and pieced it together. I figured the sizes needed and cut pieces. Kristi and Pam pieced together the checkerboard pieces, and Pam pieced the sections together. Lynn pressed the seams, and Kristi made lunch. I quilted it and sewed the binding on. Lynn and Kristi helped stitched the binding on the back side. Kristi made the label and I stitched it to the quilt. Lynn made a case for it to be in (like a pillowcase), and I gave it to our Quilt Guild representative to be sent away. There was a lot of work put into this. And, as with all "work projects by committee", it took a little more time than we expected. However, it is done, and we can move onto other projects now.

Now, I am working on finishing a basement bathroom, and hoping to get some quilting done soon. I also have several baby receiving blankets to make -- I know a few expectant mothers and grandmothers. I hope to share something again soon.

Keep on quilting and creating!



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More Ceramics Revealed

I finished my 10-week course in Ceramics. These are the items I made in the last half of the class. I really am beginning to enjoy this, and to feel I can do it. I know I have lots left to learn, but I love the results so far.




I know that my success in this class (I consider it a success), is due to a very kind and patient instructor, Beth. I am amazed how she can show and talk you through a project, and she is very complimentary of our efforts.

One thing I have learned from taking this class is "Creativity Takes Courage". One student is very creative in her work of hand-building, and takes a great deal of time to work on each project. In this studio setting, courage is easy. There is no criticism of anyone's work, and there is much sharing of ideas and skills. Beth even asked me to share some of my quilting with her, and then she had me share it with others. This was an amazing experience.

I have in my heart a great desire for creativity. Sometimes I just don't know enough about techniques, but many times I am afraid. I am trying to not be afraid. I also would never want to say something to someone else that would cause them to be afraid to share their creative efforts. It is a better thing to appreciate others' efforts and encourage Courage.

Enjoy your creative day!