Sentimental Stitches

Today's the start of the next block of the month. This time we'll be working on my adaptation of another antique quilt in my collection. The quilt is filled with more antique fabrics than I can count and a great array of patchwork designs. It feels a bit odd to not be working on an applique project but so many of you asked for a little patchwork relief so here we go!

Before we get started I want to address a serious topic I've received a couple of very nasty emails about. I've been accused of being insensitive, uncaring and ignorant among other things in regard to this quilt. I've even been told I shouldn't have it in my collection. Here's a news flash for those of you who have written and those who think you should write to me because there's a once innocent quilt block in this late 1800s antique quilt - - -  You need to educate yourself, not me! I saw the offending block and am wise enough to know the maker included it in her quilt because of it's design,  popularity at the time and  for no other reason. The quilt was made long before an evil man selected the symbol to represent his regime. I'm not going to make this long winded and hope you'll take the time to read this well written and educational blog post.  and this article from The Society Pages too.   I have the highest regard for the Jewish people and for their plight during World War II. I never had any intention of presenting the offending Whirligig block which resembles a swastika during this block of the month and certainly don't want to create or cause distress for anyone. I apologize if this whole topic is making anyone sick but receiving nasty emails doesn't do much for my health either. That poor quilt block can be seen as yet another victim of a disgustingly evil time in our history. We should always remember and honor but not punish the quilters and quilts who were created before that time. Let them be reminders of what should never, ever happen again. 

Here's how things are going to work  for the Cheddarback Quilt -

• I'll post the instructions for 1 large block and 4 small blocks on the first of each month, beginning today.
• The blocks will be free for 1 month. After that you'll need to purchase any blocks you missed in the online store.   The block will be posted here and past blocks will be in the Sentimental Stitches online store. 
• The program will begin on March 1 2019 and continue for 14 months
• There is a Facebook Group for anyone working on the quilt. You can ask to join the group - HERE
• The finished size of the quilt is 73" x  87"

• Supply List

You might have wondered where the quilt got it's name - here's your answer! The entire back of the quilt is the yummiest shade of cheddar you can imagine. It's difficult to capture the richness of the color so here's little introduction -

Yes, there is a new little girl at our house. She's keeps things lively around here while we wait for the perfect little sister for her to be born. Hopefully by later this year we'll have another baby join our family. We didn't plan to get another dog the same color as Clutch but this little girl came along and I think Rob wasn't sure I'd make it if we kept waiting too long. It's been almost 15 years since we've had a puppy. It was like having a newborn for the first few weeks. 

If you're wondering how Clutch feel about this - he's had his moments but is becoming a great big brother. 

I know, I know...........two videos? There is just so much to talk about with this quilt. Take note of the things I talk about and then go back and look at the photograph of the entire quilt. You might decide to make some of the same choices the original maker did. 

Here's a good look at the sashing used throughout most of the quilt. The little squares and squiggle are black. You could probably use a polka dot fabric for the sashing too.

Here's a good look at the blue sprig print used in the sashing across the top and down the two sides.

Here's a suggestion for sashing fabric.  I purchased this not too long ago so you might still be able to find it. It's Collector's Gallery by Faye Burgos for Marcus Fabrics. Design 1207-0111

Block 1

This is our first large block. It's traditionally called 'Rolling Stone'. It can easily be rotary cut and machine pieced.

These are the first four small blocks. You can see they are joined together with sashing and cornerstone. Instructions are included in the first pattern set.

Block 2

Block 3

Block 4

Block 5

I have a feeling these will keep you busy for the entire month until we get into the swing of things. 

Cheddarback - Month 1 Patterns - CLICK HERE