Friday, February 19, 2016

Hand Quilting Mrs. Bannister's Stars





Mrs. Bannister's Stars secondary pattern



Yesterday was a good stitching day, and I powered through as much of the hand quilting as possible. The center is finished, and I'm not going to be too critical of my stitches. Done is better than perfect.


One issue continues to plague me; burying the knot in the beginning and end. If I'm trying to go through a tighter weave, it's not easy. Some places I've found are impossible to pull the tiniest knot through. I've tried all the tricks I've found, and was dismayed to even see it put a 'runner' in 2 fabrics. I've been keeping my knot a single, used a little soap for extra slide, etc. Still. 

Linda from Koka Quilts sent me a link to Sarah Fielke's blog, The Last Piece. She has a beautiful video tutorial that explains her method of hand quilting, and how she so easily buries the knots. 

There are more out there, and Pinterest seems to be a good spot to find both tutorials and examples. Unlike standard hand quilting, there are some distinct styles. I think they all look good, but what it comes down to is consistency in stitch length to make it uniform.



Thank you for all the get well wishes. I'm sure they're helping more than my canine kisses did yesterday. Having the grand dogs gave me an excuse to take a little nap, and build some strength.




A reminder that you still have time to enter Craftsy's Giveaway for the "Craftsy Sweetens My Quilting Life Blog Hop." More details on the Boundless Solids Crown Jewel Quilt Kit, fabric bundles, and class prizes here.

Boundless Solids Crown Jewels by Amy Gibson Quilt Kit - None

One entry per person. Enter until Sunday, Feb. 22, 11:59 p.m. MST. Winners announced Monday, Feb. 23 here and on mmm! quilts.

Come on, Doxie girls.



6 comments:

France Nadeau ❅ inspiration imagination creation said...

I've never seen these stars before. They're beautiful. It's interesting to see how the star centre block is created by simply putting the four blocks together. I'm sure that your choice of pale fabrics is what makes this centre star pop up that much (because of the contrast that's created). And your hand quilting is beautiful too. I also think that done is better then perfect. :-)

Teje Karjalainen said...

Hi Juie! This quilt is beautiful and your hand quilting looks lovely! I think you are the only one whose dog holds the quilting frame! I love to see all your furry friends there. x Teje

Sandra Walker said...

Na I think the canine kisses will help you more!! OhJulie, seeing those FIVE (where's the sixth?!) dogs at the window, who clearly get mesmerized by squirrels much like I do lol, makes me grin from ear to ear-LOVE that shot. Um, you could take a NAP with that many fur babies around?! Bahaha, I bet you all did though. :-)

Stitchin At Home said...

This is coming along beautifully Julie. Having a nap when you are still not feeling well is a great idea.

Lisa J. said...

Your stitch length looks great. I hope you are well soon.

Tish Stemple said...

I'm with Sandra, there is nothing canine kisses cannot cure. I think your hand stitching looks marvelous! Hope you are feeling even better today.