My sister has always been my biggest cheerleader and my quilting adventure is no exception. She provides artistic review of all my quilt designs. She phones me to chat while I am quilting, which keeps me going. She is wonderful. So to reward such a wonderful person, I decided to make a very special quilt for Christmas.
She really liked my whole cloth quilts. So that was a good place to start. I wanted it to be something she could use routinely, so a table runner would be perfect. I picked a camel sateen fabric, extra loft poly batting and paired it with black and burgundy threads.
Once materials were selected, I needed to come up with a design. It had to be personal and reflect our relationship. To me quilts are more than the fabric and thread, the design should represent the people making and/or receiving it. We both love flowers, so the HandiQuilter Jade Spinning Wheel was a good template for the flower center. Angela Walter’s Archie ruler made a great border design. The quilt would be filled with free motion hearts (I have to say that was fun). Finally, for the personal touch – our names and two quotes about sisterly love:
- Chance made us sisters, hearts made us friends.
- A sister is one who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.
The true test of you design is the reaction of the recipient. My sister loved it!
I encourage each of you to try designing a whole cloth quilt for someone – even yourself. The freedom of the blank fabric to make your design is incredible and the results can be astounding.
Happy Quilting
Laureen