TQ Notes 20/100

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Notes after completing 20/100 Tiny Quilts!

• I did my first improv experiments in this most recent series of 10 TQs, starting with TQs #11 and 12 that were in process at the same time. It’s a new experience for me to sew without a plan. I really like the qualities of the finished quilts when I haven’t used a ruler. They feel alive in a different way. I have a lot to learn about experimenting, letting go of planning and measuring, and being open to what happens. #transferrablelifeskills

• I’ve started experimenting with stitching as mark-making, and I’m really excited about this. Will there be drawing with stitches in the future?

• I made my very first star block, and would like to work with this design again, applying what I’ve learned about colour combinations that help the star stand out. I also want to put a star block on a sweatshirt, or perhaps a hat. I need to keep reminding myself just how much the final dimensions shrink after all the seam allowances are accounted for - especially when working small.

• I’m not good at learning new quilting or stitching skills from books. I casually look through books from the library as “magazines” where I find ideas/possibilities and then follow video tutorials to learn the techniques. Are other people able to learn from the little diagrams in books? I’d love to have some in-person quilty mentorship someday.

• I enjoy combining visual texture and tactile texture. (eg. Striped fabrics going in different directions, along with different stitches on top and layering fabrics with reverse appliqué cut-outs to make portals.)

• I expect that seed stitches and this way of writing/mark-making will be back again soon in future quilts. Such fun to do, and to touch the textures that they make.

• I have momentum with making Tiny Quilts, with a few in the works at any given time, at various stages in the process. More to come!