Thursday 28 June 2018

What to do when you run short of fabric...

So, I decided to go with a border in the blue fabric, which has been in the original pull for this quilt but hadn't made it into the string blocks.  Of course there wasn't quite enough, as you can see below.
I cut up everything I had and ended up with enough for three out of four sides.  I did consider not adding the border all the way round, but decided to eke things out by adding some bits of the blue shirt fabric that's already in the quilt.


And then started making more string blocks.
I think I need another 22.  Not sure whether I can get there - you'll see I've started making some much smaller bits and then sewing them together to make 6" squares.  This is not so much playing with scale as trying to use every last bit of fabric.  If I run out, then I'll worry about what I do instead.

15 comments:

Yvonne from Quilting Jetgirl said...

The solution for the border works well and I have every confidence that you will find and ingenious solution if you need to for the last 22 blocks as well.

Robin said...

I actually liked the asymmetrical feel of the first picture. The fabric you've chosen for the border really reins in the activity of the blocks without putting a damper on them. Works really well together....

Janie said...

Very nice work, Kaja.
I like a good border or two.
They add to a quilt's personality.
Yes, I give my quilts personality.

Quiltdivajulie said...

That new blue border really makes a difference -- love it.

Mystic Quilter said...

Love the blue border and then your smaller blocks, fits together beautifully.

Marly said...

The border solution is perfect. This is looking really good!

O'Quilts said...

very interesting...good job

Mary Marcotte said...

I love a good quilt saga! You just resolve those awfully quickly, though. In future, leave a little more time for suspense to build. :)
Your border solution is a good one. Here's a suggestion: if you run out of border, choose to put what you have on three sides, leaving the top without. I did that back when I was including prairie points and scallops. I figured that no one would want those tickling their face. I still use the excuse when I'm in a jam. No matter what you decide, before you know it this one will be in the quilting queue.

Kim said...

I think the blue border makes your quilt. Such an amazing job you have done with all the blocks. This is such a visually pleasing quilt top filled with oodles of interest and pattern. You have an excellent eye!

JanineMarie said...

Oh, I like this a lot! I'm not usually that excited by borders, but this blue one works so well. I'm in big suspense about the 22 blocks, but I know your improv skills will shine.

helenjean@midgetgemquilts said...

Generally speaking I am not a great fan of borders, sometimes too wishy washy and sort of tacked on. But yours works well because it is such a strong fabric. Looks great

Kathleen said...

Coming along great. I like the blue border save.

audrey said...

I really like that you are making that border fabric work. It's the perfect fit with your blocks! And I am loving the idea of extending the piecing beyond the border.:)

Soma @ inkTorrents.com said...

Great solution!! I really like the quilt top. The pieced outer border looks wonderful!

-Soma

Sandy Panagos said...

There's always a solution when you put your thinking cap on. You are so good at that! It looks great.