This week I am auditioning layouts for the Intricate Stitches quilt. I know that I drew this all out before I even started, but now that the blocks are done I want to try something new and different with them. Story of my quilty life--get halfway through the pattern and decide that I'd rather do it differently. (As a side note, it's the story of my professional life, too. I'll get halfway through writing something and have an even better idea so that I have to start over.) Anyway, here's the basic layout that I drew out a year ago:
Basic is the word for it, isn't it? It's my intention to add some pieced borders like a traditional medallion quilt, but also to have plenty of space for the blocks themselves to shine. What would we call that? Modern traditional? Modernitional? Heritage modern?
Here's the same blocks but in an on-point setting, what I'm calling the diamond layout:
This would give a lot of more modern "wiggle room," but I don't really like it. Too much empty space and not a great way to include any pieced borders.
I thought I would like this one, which I call the crowded layout:
The string blocks and cut fabric pieces are stand-ins for some new, smaller blocks that I would have to make. I really thought I would like this, but there is just too much going on. Lots of white space and plenty of room for pieced borders, but just visually awful.
One more layout to audition:
I call this the modern layout. I'm really surprised how much I like this one and how harmonious it seems. Lots of space for the eyes to rest. I considered this for a long time and had it up on the wall for several days. Ultimately, though, it doesn't fit with the vintage blocks or have the feel that I'm going for. I do think this would be awesome with all one block in the two different sizes.
So, I guess we're back to basics! Now to consider some other piecing that will bring these all together. I know that I will have to incorporate a lot of white space because this is already a riot of color, but I think the empty space will seriously enhance the blocks.
So which layout is *your* favorite? Any good suggestions for pieced borders to consider? I have a couple in mind, but I'm always open to new ideas.
Hope you're all having a good week! Can you believe we're halfway through November? Yikes!
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22 comments:
I am really drawn to the on point layout. It looks great and I love the change in perspective with the blocks turned on point. If it was set in a solid fabric and the sashing was pieced? Second to that, I like your first layout but maybe space them out from each other a bit more and add a large sashing and a border around that center block? This is going to be a wonderful finish whichever way you decide. Love the whole thing!
I liked the "on Point" set as well. But then you showed the others and now I'm not sure either! Sorry!!! I'm no help at all!
I rather like the unexpected final "modern" layout with the large block in a corner . . . that one made me focus more on the individual blocks as my eye roamed across the quilt. I also like the open squares between the blocks - not sure what you are thinking about for filler blocks, but I could see WOW string blocks or sixteen patches using a variety of WOW fabrics (texture without taking away from the colorful blocks). And as far as pieced borders, four patches and sawtooth sections are always wonderful (supportive but non-competitive).
I really like the first layout, as "standard" as it may be! With each block being a different color scheme and more highly pieced (aka intricate, lol) I don't think you necessarily want to "over-set" your blocks. Getting too fussy will make the quilt too busy and the blocks won't shine the way that they should. That's just what I'm thinking looking at the layouts that you've suggested, but you'll find what's perfect for your blocks!
I REALLY like the on-point setting!
I'm surprised I'm saying this, but the last layout is definitely my favorite! This is really going to be an awesome quilt when it's done.
Basic is best, in my opinion. The blocks are intricate and a simple layout would keep the focus on the blocks. Also, you don't have to come up with a plan to quilt all that negative space.
Hugs,
Preeti.
These are fantastic blocks, and I really like the second setting!
I really do like the first layout, but I am also liking your "modern" layout. Something to consider for the future!
I like the on-point layout! I think the blocks need a little 'elbow room' (white sashing, white alternate blocks, etc..). The white space will let each of them be their beautiful selves!
I like the top layout but think I would put those 2 lovely corner blocks that look more round, opposite each other. That would give more balance. Such gorgeous blocks!!
All the layouts have potential, but I like the top (original) one best and agree that more white space between the blocks with pieced borders would be my choice. I looked at sections of each block for pieced border ideas, and think a single strip of blue and white squares in the blue and orange block (modified for size as desired) would provide the "on point" contrast to the square blocks and space them out to stand on their own a bit more without overpowering. Maybe? I'm sure whatever you decide will be fabulous because the blocks are. Congratulations.
While I like the on point layout I am more drawn to the modern layout , and most of all, the crowded one, I just think it's a bit unexpected and fun. I like different.
I keep changing my mind about which layout I like the best, so I'm really looking forward to seeing what you choose to do. It is so neat to see all the blocks together!
Wow all of the blocks look wonderful. Hard to choose but I like the on point one the best.
I like all the layouts! Each one could be fun and interesting! What amazies me when looking at your blocks is all the beautiful color and such fascinating blocks. This is going to be an amazing quilt!
that was fun!!!
I like them on point. You could do some on point joiner blocks, low contrast, subtle but uniting the ring around the center.
At first I thought I preferred the on point...but then I waffled and I think I'd like to see the first layout with more space between the center block and the outer blocks. But I'm certain whatever you choose will be fantastic!
Bah!!! I like them all!!!! That is no help is it - but they are all so neat!
I really like the on point setting, but I see your delemma with that approach.
When I look at No. 1, I notice that the blocks appear to be of different sizes even tho they are not. It's because of the dark areas along the edges versus white. This is less evident in the on point and definitely less in the final version. In that one my mind accepts difference, not trying to make them match in size. So I like it the best because each block shines on its own and the large one does not seem trapped. For the border, if spaced far enough away, something simple could work. They really benefit from not being crowded, whatever you choose.
Beautiful blocks. Looking forward to seeing what you decide you want to do with them.
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