The VMQG February challenge is to create a block (or blocks) for a group quilt, using bright pinks and oranges, with a background of natural colored linen. The second part of the challenge is to try something new. Working with linen is a new experience for me, but I decided to take it one step further.
I’ve been looking for an opportunity to try Rose Hughes’ Fast-Piece Applique technique. Rose has written a book about the technique, called Dream Landscapes, and you can find a link to a video tutorial here. It’s a way of doing raw-edge applique without using fusible web. She recommends couching over the raw-edges after sandwiching the quilt. Because I was making blocks for a group quilt, instead I satin-stitched the raw edges, using tear-away stabilizer. First I made a block with one heart, then – because I love a challenge! – I made a block with 3 interlocked hearts. I like the technique and will definitely use it again. Here are photos of the front and back of my blocks.
Linking up to:
- Finish It Up Friday hosted by Amanda Jean at Crazy Mom Quilts
- Richard & Tanya Quilts – Link a Finish Friday
- Nina-Marie’s Off the Wall Friday
I like your hearts, Terry, and your satin stitch is beautifully executed. I checked out the video too; it’s interesting how the couching and/or satin stitch between the sections can draw the eye — more or less, depending on the colour of thread/yarn/cord used. 🙂
ohh that’s interesting about a new way to raw edge applique – especially with the couching! I’ll have to look into that. Still I like my raw edge to be a little more raw than finish. And yeah – I never fuse!
Thank you for the link. Your hearts are wonderful.
Hi Terry,
Thanks for sharing this great technique. I have a book written by Stewart Merrett, an applique artist and made several of his pieces which are quite complicated. I think I’ll try to use this method to produce another project from his book. The title of the book is, “Applique Alphabet”. Love your hearts!
Anna – I know that book! I’ve seen it at the library, and love the patterns! http://www.amazon.com/Applique-Alphabet-Hb-Stewart-Merrett/dp/0713474602