Cheer On the Makers & Bento Box Blue

My quilting friends have gotten phone calls lately asking if they had anything that needed longarming. No charge. Free. Please, I just needed practice. I didn't realize it would be hard  to rustle up quilts in the middle of summer, but it seems to be a slow time. 

Many have taken a complete break from sewing projects, and are enjoying the outdoors. I would, too, but rain and mosquitos are a problem this summer. Instead, I read, learn, and practice.

My friend, Irene, offered this Bento Box quilt top, and said it would probably be a charity quilt. I loaded it, called her, and asked if she wanted to come watch. I also wanted her to see the thread choices. Tan or off white would have blended well in the background, and been safe choices, but what about all the beautiful blues in both the top and backing. Could we be just a little daring that day?

Her initial response was no, then hesitated. Well, why not? After all, it was a charity quilt, and it would add cheerful color. Let's try it.

Would I please do something swirly with the pattern, too?

We started at 10:20, and wrapped up the last pass at 12:15.

There was quite a bit of anticipation to see it off the frame. You would think that aqua blue would really stand out, but from a distance it's barely there. Irene was tickled. So was I.

The same with the backing. It's not nearly as noticable as you might imagine. The thread sinks down into the fabric. 

By the end of our session, there was a real debate whether she wanted to give it up or not. I think she was leaning toward keeping it. She has plenty of other charity quilts ready to quilt, though.

Irene is a kind, dedicated quilter, who like many at First Mennonite Church give one day of their week toward making charity and relief quilts. This is an act of service and love, and many churches in our area still do the same. Women gather early for devotions and prayer, sew, and eat together. They form their friendship through the bond of stitching as did generations before them.

If you know quilters and stitchers who are generous with their gifts and time, let them know how much you appreciate their efforts. I know most makers rarely meet the recipients of their gifts, and not all who receive are able to find the maker. No matter the person or their age, an 'Atta Girl' is always honey for their heart. 

Three cheers for the dedicated makers! 

Come on, Doxie girls.

Let's go sew.

Linking up with~
Quilt Story
Freemotion by the River
Show and Tell Tuesday
Blossom Heart Quilts
Show and Tell with Bambi
Cooking Up Quilts