So what do I have to show you today? Well, I really enjoy using these blog hops to try out new things, whether it be a new pattern or new technique. Yes, on occasion this strategy has backfired on me, but in general it seems to be good for me. For this blog hop, I tried out a new pattern AND a new technique:
I made a little paper pieced bluebird using a FREE pattern from Liljabs, available at Craftsy. Liljabs has some amazing free paper piecing patterns at Craftsy. I was sorely disappointed I didn't get to finish the sandpiper looking one she has for this hop!
I've only seen a bluebird once in my life, so it sounded reasonable to make one that I could look at every day if I wanted. So, that's the new pattern I tried out, now for the new technique:
I made this "robin" (it looks more like a really fat finch to me), using a McKenna Ryan pattern found in the April 2013 issue of American Patchwork and Quilting magazine. It is a fusible applique pattern. I've used fusible applique before, but I normally then machine applique around each piece. McKenna skips that step entirely and instead outlines each piece at the quilting stage - effectively securing it in place and quilting at the same time. I must admit, it did go together much more quickly than my old way!
Please don't forget to visit other participants. Here is the rest of the schedule:
Monday, May 13
Tuesday, May 14
Wednesday, May 15
As always, thanks for reading,
Jen
PS. I love owls! Here's a little pic of one of my first quilts:
PS. I love owls! Here's a little pic of one of my first quilts:
