I always wanted to make a postage stamp quilt. A scrappy one, of course. I made a mini and a pillow last year, but dabbling wasn't enough for me.
Months ago, I started cutting 4" squares from scraps. I did this gradually, as I was cutting for other things. I cut many from two partially used charm packs (Circa 1934 and dark solids).
I sat down to count about six weeks ago, and calculated what I needed.
For this 70" x 80" quilt, I needed 400 squares.
I was way short with my gradual cutting, so I started working through scraps. There are a few duplicates, but this is a nice representation of scraps. I randomly started assembling them into 16-patch blocks, and then into a top.
To tame the gorgeous color a bit, I backed it with the ever-popular IKEA Britten print, as well as a half yard of an Avalon print.
It is quilted in a meander free-motion stitch, but a few blocks were used for experimenting with other FMQ techniques. It was fun!
As I was finishing it up with some scrappy binding last week, Elliott suggested that I gift it to my grandmother.
We visited my family this weekend, and she is recovering from surgery. This was the perfect chance to give her something special.
My grandmother is, without a doubt, one of the most influential people in my life, crafty or otherwise.
And I didn't even think about it at the time, but my grandmother has collected stamps throughout her life, so really, how could I not give it to her?
She wrapped up in it immediately, so I know it will be loved.
P.S. Whenever I think of postage stamp quilts, I think of Molly.
