With much joy, relief and many blessings, this afternoon I sent off my humble offering to Evelyn for Krystal's auction. Joy because I had such fun making this doll quilt, relief because I was able to finish and send it in time, and with many blessings because I created this with much love and prayers going out to Krystal, her family and wishes for a successful auction. This doll quilt measures in at 18 1/2 inches square (47 cm x 47cm) in shades of pink, cream and white. I machine pieced the top patchwork to save time. The center heart is hand appliqued, a little interfacing gives it more definition. The quilting I've done by hand also. And I'm calling it Hearts Delight!
My original idea for this doll quilt was much more elaborate, with hand embroidery, ribbons and lot of hand quilted stitches. This was before the changes for the auction. So it was back to the work table to come up with something else, to come up with a pleasing result that could be managed in the short amount of time I had to actually work on the quilt and send it off in time. Though all my initial ideas could not come to fruition with this quilt, I'm still happy with this simplified result. It has a sweet charm. My only hope is that someone at the auction will find it charming too!
This doll quilt taught me a lot...The hallmark of a master quilter is hers/his small and even quilting stitches. Working on the quilt was good practice in trying to maintain fine stitches. The heart applique was also good practice--for hearts can be a challenge (or at least I find them so) in keeping the shape, making the straight and curved sections flow, and keeping that all-important end point sharp. I enjoy hand stitching and sewing, so attaching the binding by hand was the point where I could slow down, weave in those prayers for Krystal with each stitch, and celebrate the finish of making this quilt. On the back I've sewn a sort of label, in a heart shape, with my name and name of the quilt, and date--signing my work.
I've been bitten by the doll quilt bug for real now! I think another one will be in my future before long...
This evening I will rest, though. Fabric, pins, and needles are put away. The work table is clear and tidy for another day...During the week I have some things to share. More awards, treats of many kinds, a recipe or two, more handmade lovelies, and maybe something pink...
Wishing you all a wonderful week! :o)
"...You do what is necessary at a given moment with all of your heart and all of your soul."
--Laurens van der Post
Purlen!! That's gorgeous!! I just posted a pic of mine on my blog...tell me what you thnk! I can't believe you finished so fast! You must be pooped! It's just awesome!!!
Posted by: Lissa | August 06, 2007 at 06:20 PM
My goodness Tracy this is absolutely beautiful!! You are a wonder, and I love the lovely shades of pink... I just know all who sees it will love it! So glad the pins and needles are put away for a while you deserve a much earned rest... Thank you so much Tracy for all you do.
Hugs...
Beverly
Posted by: tea time and roses | August 06, 2007 at 07:29 PM
Tracy, that is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful! Whomever is the winning bidder on that will be very lucky indeed! I can say that with distinct authority having been the recipient of some of your fine handiwork myself. Your work is stunning. YES! I received the lovely Charlotte bag today and it is even more beautiful than it looked on line. Thanks so much AND thanks for the lovely birthday gift of that lovely pin! I shall wear it with pride and tell everyone my friend in Norway Tracy made it just for me. The bag is perfect for holding my scriptures, just the right size, so that is what I shall be using it for and I will be the envy of all the women in my church! Also that lovely tea cozy is absolutely perfect, and so beautifully done. You really are a treasure, and I am proud to call you my friend. XXOO
Marie
Posted by: Marie | August 06, 2007 at 07:43 PM
What a delightful doll quilt! My grandmother made me a doll quilt as a child that I'll bring out when the girls are older. It isn't nearly as lovely as yours but there is that sentimental value to it that makes it so special! What a lucky little girl to get the one you made!
Posted by: Maureen | August 06, 2007 at 08:21 PM
A beautiful quilt made with love and it shows! I love the quote from Laurens Van der Post too.
Kimx
Posted by: kim | August 06, 2007 at 08:40 PM
Beautifully and lovingly made, Tracy. Your attention to detail and eye for color really shows. I hope it brings in a lot :-)
Posted by: nikkipolani | August 06, 2007 at 09:27 PM
My heart was indeed delighted at the sight of your beyond BEAUTIFUL doll quilt. I see in it so much sweetness, love & tenderness. I'm lost for words :)
Posted by: Evelyn Lum | August 06, 2007 at 10:18 PM
the quilt is gorgeous tracy!
Posted by: erin | August 06, 2007 at 11:26 PM
That is really pretty. You did a fab job once again. :)
HUGS!
Posted by: Tiffany | August 07, 2007 at 12:00 AM
What a sweet and thoughtful work of art!
Posted by: Beachy | August 07, 2007 at 02:31 AM
What a delightful doll quilt!
Kind Regards,
Sonnja
Posted by: Sonnja | August 07, 2007 at 07:12 AM
Your quilt is beautiful!
Posted by: Hege | August 07, 2007 at 07:40 AM
This is lovely! Warms my heart Tracy!
Posted by: Tips Of All Sorts | August 07, 2007 at 09:52 AM
one word : WOW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Valerie | August 07, 2007 at 01:32 PM
Hi Tracy,
The quilt is beautiful, every little girl's dream! Love the colors! But then again I'm crazy for pink, just like you. I'm sure it will find a new owner who will love it always!
Posted by: Mette | August 07, 2007 at 02:30 PM
Its very beautiful indeed :)
Posted by: Felicia | August 07, 2007 at 03:10 PM
The quilt is lovely. The appliqué and the quilting are beautiful. Its amazing how much work and wishes can go onto one piece of work, and you have done a magnificent job on it.
Can't wait to see your next one :-)
Posted by: Tatania | August 07, 2007 at 03:19 PM
What a beautiful quilt, you are very talented indeed...
The colours are just gorgeous!
Well done you,
Jennifer.x
Posted by: buttercup&roses | August 07, 2007 at 04:47 PM
This is just as sweet as can be...you did a wonderful job. I wish I had even half your talent for making such beautiful things. Sending hugs and kisses, Momma
Posted by: Carol | August 07, 2007 at 07:16 PM
That is the sweetest doll quilt I have ever seen!
Posted by: Nicole | August 08, 2007 at 05:52 PM
Tracy, that's absolutely stunning - you're so very talented!
Posted by: dottycookie | August 18, 2007 at 10:33 PM