While we were at Quilt Market last month, we stumbled upon this absolutely stunning Collection Quilt by Carolyn Friendlander. After speaking more with Carolyn about her Collection Quilt pattern, we found out this a beginner to intermediate pattern, with the goal of starting with easier blocks, and working toward more intricate and complex blocks. This sounds like the perfect skill-builder in needle turn appliqué! The entire quilt is hand pieced, and then the quilt blocks are joined together by machine when done. You have the option of needle turn appliqué, or raw edge appliqué, whichever you prefer.
We jumped on ordering the Collection Quilt pattern, and we do have those individually in the shop. To take it one step further, we are kitting each month and offering those as part of a subscription! The individual Collection Quilt pattern is $42, but if you purchase it with the BOM kit, it’s $39, and we do all the hard work for you! We cut and ship the fabrics required for each month of the Collection Quilt. Some months, you’ll get just a few 1/4 yards, and other months, you’ll get more. The entire Collection Quilt BOM program lasts 10 months, and in the final month, you’ll receive the backing and binding of your choice. That’s an ENTIRE quilt shipped to your door! (If you’re international and are considering the BOM subscription, please contact us. We are happy to hold your order for 2-3 months to reduce shipping charges.) You’ll only need to add batting, and collect the supplies needed.
Collection is a 9-part series focused on exploring shape and color. Each “Collection” (or part of the project) is broken down by skill. For example, in Collection #1 you’ll be able to get the hang of the basic process before I start throwing any crazy shapes at you. Each following Collection will focus on another appliqué variation through illustrations, photographs and diagrams. – Carolyn Friedlander
There are also 6 alternate projects included that are made from blocks in the project. Additional items recommended: Thread (coordinating and contrasting colors), applique needles, applique pins, large fabric scissors, applique scissors or small fabric scissors, removable marking tool, seam gauge, iron, card stock or template plastic, rotary cutter, cutting mat and rulers.
Need another reason to sign up?? Check out these benefits of hand sewing!
Some benefits of hand sewing:
1. Hand piecing/sewing is simple and inexpensive. There is no need to buy an expensive sewing machine! Templates are used repeatedly and can be made out of household items, like freezer paper and cereal boxes. The only items that are truly needed for hand piecing? Fabric, scissors, templates, pins, needles, thread, and thimbles.
2. Portability. You can hand piece anywhere! Pack up your hand work and bring it along with you. You can sew in the car, waiting rooms, hotels, sporting events, or in your backyard.
3. Precision. Hand piecing is highly controlled and very forgiving. Matching seams and perfect points are easily attained! Complicated blocks with tricky seams and plenty of pieces are finished accurately with hand piecing.
4. Relaxation. There is something therapeutic about working quietly with your hands. Many people like to sit on their couch and hand sew while watching TV. It is also a nice time to socialize. It is a quiet craft, so it makes for a nice project to work on when talking with friends.
Are you going to join us in the Collection Quilt BOM?