Sometimes we want to fill a specific space on a quilt with a quilting motif. It could be an alternate block, a setting triangle, sashing or other defined space. Why not practice free-motion quilting and filling shapes using improv patchwork?
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| Filling defined shapes and spaces with free-motion quilting. |
This improv quilt is for
Jesse The Wonder Cat and the kitties at
The Cat Clinic. The improvisational patchwork actually has parts of a fabric handbag that never made it to the quilting stage, so I decided to repurpose the pieces for the kitties. Other improv blocks were incorporated to make the top to size.
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| The "handbag" kitty quilt, 30.5" x 25" |
When I sit down to quilt these small format quilts, I decide on a technique or motif I need to practice. With the larger blocks and a variety of sizes of squares, rectangles and triangles, this quilt top was a good canvas for fillers and motifs in defined spaces.
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| Zig-zags and a feather in triangular shapes |
Moving from section to section, I also got in practice for ditch stitching. You can see the outlines of the shapes (stitching in the ditch) more clearly from the back.
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| Ditch stitching (back view). |
These kitty charity quilts have an abundance of potential for practicing free-motion quilting. And the kitties love them!
Enjoy the antics of the special kitties,
Jesse the Wonder Cat,
Silly Willie the Super Scooter,
Good Golly Miss Dolly that reside at the
Cat Clinic of Chattanooga. And if you're thinking about
opening your heart to a furry friend this holiday season, there are many cats and dogs that need forever homes. Contact your local shelter to inquire.
