Open Windows
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| Open Windows Quilt of Valor 61 x 73 inches |
The last ten quilts have been made almost exclusively from the scrap bins. Yardage is only cut for background (white or off-white) and borders - sometimes the borders are remnants of previous quilt backs.
Just to clarify - when I finish a quilt and have "odd" sizes of fabric left over, rather than stuff it into a sack or box I cut it into sizes that can be used in various blocks. I start with the largest remnant and cut whatever that remnant allows; i.e., 10" squares, 8" squares, 6.5" squares, 5" squares, 4.5" squares, 3.5" squares, 2.5" squares and/or strips. I also try to cut some "bricks" which are 3.5 x 6.5 inches. These elements are then stacked in plastic bins and boxes and ready whenever needed. Bonnie Hunter calls this technique of scrap control: Scrap User's System. (click on the link for more details)
Thankfully, I've found a lady in Lander who welcomes smaller strings (2" or smaller) of scraps, so those scraps are given to her. Very little fabric is wasted which is a very good thing.
Cotton, quilting fabric pricing is all over the board: in some shops, the fabric is nearly $12 -14 a yard. Many shops also have clearance areas where fabric is 30 - 40% off, but selection is very limited; thus, it pays to use every possible bit of fabric.
That is awesome! What a great way to control your scraps and be prepared to make the next one.
ReplyDeleteI need to tame my scrap bin again. I actually cleaned out a smaller bin yesterday afternoon and refolded any large chunks of fabric. But then I tossed the smaller pieces into my big scrap bin. Now I need to get in there and cut again into squares, bricks, and strips.
ReplyDeleteI love how this quilt shows off a secondary design when you put the blocks together.
Our windows are open...oddly enough Nancy! We are having thunder storms and 60s. UNHEARD of for us iN Chicago. I want your snow!
ReplyDelete32 quilts? What an accomplishment! You are amazing Nancy!
ReplyDeleteOpen Windows is beautiful.
It's been so long since I've purchased nice fabric, I didn't realize the price had gone up that high. Yikes. It certainly is a good idea to save and use as many scraps as possible, and it sounds like you are doing an outstanding job!!!
ReplyDeleteThis quilt is another beauty. I love knowing it will make some deserving Vet very happy.
Very pretty! Merry Christmas, Nancy!
ReplyDelete