Don't let the difficulties of the present moments overshadow the reality of God's promises. God's promises still stand. And God's promises are stronger than our failures.

Saturday, February 13, 2010

A Little Stitching

This is a small wallhanging/table topper that I made about 10 years ago but didn't quilt. I used it as a practice piece to learn some new software upgrades I got on my Janome sewing machine a couple of weeks ago. My Janome is also an embroidery machine and it now has a stippling pattern on it that I want to use on some of my quilts. The problem is that it was designed using metric measurements and my blocks are made using inches. Therefore there is not an exact fit...annoying for sure. Thread choice is going to be critical when using this pattern. You can't see here but some of the stippling went slightly into the sashing but because I used navy thread it doesn't jump out at you.
And this Valentine wallhanging I made today. I did machine applique on the hearts and birds and used white thread on the whole thing hoping it would stand out a little more. I did some echo quilting around the two hearts and the bird but now I'm wondering .. how much echo quilting should I have done. Filled the whole background? What do you think?

16 comments:

Amelia said...

Really like the valentine wall hanging...you asked about the echo quilting...add more - I think -

Hope you weather is improving...heard we are to get more snow tonight and tomorrow...but did enjoy the sunshine today.

Michelle said...

I LOVE your stippling! It looks wonderful. You must be thrilled!
be blessed,
Michelle

Alice Grace said...

this is a beautiful piece! I love echoing!

Anonymous said...

Your Valentine Quilt is beautiful!!! Very nice~

Val said...

Oh this is so good. I love them both!

nanny said...

Both are perfect as is!!!! Love them!

Carrie P. said...

They are both great. I really like your heart one.

rlbates said...

Very nice!

Glenda said...

They are both beautiful, but I really love the Valentine wall hanging. The color combination and your choice of fabrics are just perfect!

Marge said...

Oh, you have got to tell me which Janome you purchased? I have a Janome, about five years old, and would love a new one. And your's does stippling? I am so jealous.....do tell me which model you have. I want me one, too!

Love both wall hangings, but do especially like the color choices on the heart one. Good job!

Marge

Phyllis said...

Hey Marlene,

I really like the Valentine piece. I've never done echo quilting so couldn't say for sure, but I like yours just the way it is.

btw - I've given you an award on my blog. I hope you enjoy it.

Grammy Staffy said...

I love your work. I wish that you lived close. I am sure I would follow your good example and sew more. I have not made a project since Nov. when I made Claire's confirmation dress. In fact, I had to dust off my machines this week...they are usually being used too often to collect dust but not this time. I had better repent and get busy.
Keep up the good work...you inspire me. Hugs, Lura

mamuxi said...

Hello, from St Jean de luz (south west France)!
I love the bird with the hearts. Congratulation and have a good day.
Mamuxi

Janet, said...

I love them both, they are beautiful! I haven't sewn for a while, and I miss it. Guess I'll look at your pretties until I get in the mood to make some of my own.

Cornfield Quilter said...

Your quilts are adorable, especially the Valentine one!

JKW said...

I've never seen this design, I love it. Blessings, Janet