In the sewing room, I had to set aside Fleur Lumineuse for a bit, as I was asked to present a ruler demo at our meeting last Thursday. I started by pulling a bunch of bee theme fabrics and cutting strips.
Lay out the strips in various ways to decide on a sequence that looks best.
I sewed the strip sets into two identical sets, then placed the ruler for cutting. I cut the first two pieces at home so I didn’t have to take a rotary cutter and mat to the meeting. Plus I had to do the demo three times, so pre-cutting was prudent. This project uses a 60º Ruler from Creative Grids (available at Fat Quarter Shop). I have the larger size as it is more versatile and can be used on more projects. If you are local, Beginnings Quilt Shop also carries it. Match up the strip sets right sides together, and cut wedges off both ends. I just cut one end for the demo.
Back home after the demo, I cut the other end and started assembly.
These go together really quickly. I’ll quilt it later when I have several small items to do at once.
Then, I had to get another project done first. It’s a secret for now as I’m still working on it. I hope to get it done this week. Here’s the sneak peek –
I finished the binding on this Quilt of Valor, and added the label. I’ll show it at the next guild meeting, then turn it over to the committee for an upcoming award ceremony.
Finally, I was able to get back to Fleur Lumineuse. When we left off, I had it on the longarm for quilting.
Auditioning threads, I was tempted to quilt it in pink. I have two cones of pink, one lighter than the other. I looked at a sage green too.
Ultimately, I decided that the quilting should provide texture and not detract from the prints. So, it would be one of these. Two are polyester, and one is variegated cotton. I went with the Glide in the middle, with Bottom Line in the bobbin.
Next was to decide on a pantograph pattern. The design of the patchwork didn’t lend itself to custom work. It needed to be fairly dense. Ultimately, I went with the one in the middle.
It has 80/20 Hobbs batting, which gives a nice definition to the quilting. I like the soft curves of the pantograph design.
The quilting went quickly as the project is small. Happily the machine is behaving well now.
I was delighted that the bottom of the piece was flat, no need for manipulating or steaming to get it to lay nicely.
Removed from the longarm, it is trimmed up.
I lay the collage on the piece to get it positioned. I need to re-cut the stem as the original piece was not long enough. It isn’t fused yet.
I have to decide if I need to bind it first or wait until after the collage is added. If I bind first, I can extend the stem past the edge of the base. I kind of like the idea of it being more dimensional. If I don’t bind it before fusing the collage, I can put the edge of the stem under the binding. Either way, I need to piece a binding out of several of the prints as I do not want it to look like a frame. Now, I just need to make that decision and get sewing!
From My Carolina Home 
Love your QOV quilt, beautiful!
You have gotten a lot accomplished. Have you thought about facing Fleur Lumineuse instead of binding it? That way your stem goes to the bottom in a natural manner, and there is no “frame” of the binding. I love how this project has come along and will enjoy seeing the next step.
What size were the triangles for your 60 degree ruler? Love that bee fabric.
I love the way this is turning out. The idea of the stem hanging over the edge is fun and that is the way I would lean. And, that reminds me, I need to do a chrysanthemum for a bee challenge and I am loving this style.
Your constellation of stars really shine on the QOV. Good choices for the quilting thread & panto. The curves fit the flower theme so well. Our club is looking for ruler demos too – there might be a wedge on hand in the collection of one-trick rulers.
I’m so glad your machine is back in business! The Paris piece is looking wonderful and I find your bee placemats to be so darned cute! Very cheery and summery.
You’ve made a lot of great progress on several projects. The QOV looks fantastic! Good luck with the secret project and deciding how you want to proceed with the stem for the collage.
Carole, you stay busy. I love seeing the process of your quilting projects. I think I have mentioned to you that my mother was a quilter. Have a wonderful week!
Hi Carole, I have made table mats using the 60 degree ruler and I find to match up the strips, a walking foot works best for me. I love your Fleur Lumineuse, the top was very pretty with all the differning fabrics…they all coordinate so beautifully. And, I love the rose applique. I’m sure it will be Fantastique! when finished. Susan
Many years ago I bought this ruler (or pretty near it) and have never used it. Thanks for showing this and giving me the nudge I need.
Getting hot out and will be spending more time inside. And the QOV is very special. I’ve still never made one but we go to the V. A. hospital often. Do you prewash these? Or the fabric? Thanks for all the info and tips – always find so much in your letters.
The dilemma of making decisions! Have you thought of just facing your Paris background rather than binding this lovely piece? I’m sure you will make up your mind when you have time to dwell on it. The QOV Quilt is lovely and will make someone feel very special.
We have sunshine today. It’s been wet and miserably cold recently, which lowers the desire to go to the cold part of the house where my sewing room is.
Mary :))
It’s so nice when the machines behave themselves!
The QOV is lovely. You’ve inspired me. I have a few patriotic panel sitting around for inspiration.
I love your collection of bee-themed fabrics! They make a great table-topper in that shape. I have a 60 degree triangle ruler, but it’s not that big – it would be helpful to have one that size! That will be an interesting demo for your guild!