Attempting to re-create the past, whether that entails trying to reconstruct historical details of life, or trying one’s hand at making a new edition of an old textile, is always a challenge.
For a few years now, I have had a reproduction quilt pattern that simulates a quilt treasure held by the Shelburne Museum. Froncie Quinn of Hoopla Designs came up with the instructions. I can’t believe the number of tiny pieces for this “Scenes of Childhood” wall quilt. I have decided to do without the use of freezer paper templates and utilize other methods for effecting the applique.
I prefer the needleturn method, and I also figure that, since this represents an antique item, I really don’t want to use a “new” method of applique, like “freezer paper on top.” After finishing Block #1, I can understand why I waited so long to work on this project. Yet, it is looking good, and I’m happy to have at least begun.
This holiday weekend, I’ve been straightening out an area where I keep many fabrics and gadgets. I am pleased with the progress I have made, so it wasn’t time wasted. When one has had so many interests, over the years, from crocheting to knitting to painting to beading to quilting to tatting and many different kinds of needlework, it is clear to see how supplies could need straightening out. Meanwhile, I’ve come across many old projects that have been set aside long enough that I now have a renewed interest in working on them again.
One thing about needleworkers and quilters, we don’t like to be bored. I know of very few people who work on only one project at a time. There are so many fun activities from which to choose! An interesting thought is this: We like to re-create old designs. In the future, will someone try to re-create our work? Will they wonder how we lived, and the parameters of our lives, including the people in them?
Have fun this week! If you’re a quilter who is not having fun, perhaps you need a vacation to reassess your creative pursuits! After all, it t’ain’t just about making money, either for yourself or some organization. Feel free to be as creative as you wish! Dance in the wind!
My task of tracing pieces for this project is made much more simple with the use of the Artograph Light Tracer light box.
Patricia Cummings
Quilter’s Muse Publications
