Challenge Accepted

After writing Wednesday's post I sat down at my machine and spent some time quilting.  As I quilted away I started to wonder if I could actually finish it for a Friday post.  I started calculating how long each section took to quilt and how many sections there were.  I figured I could probably do it.  And the challenge took hold in my brain LOL.

I stole every minute I could on Wednesday.  I even went down at 9pm after a hill workout.  I promise you that the only thing I WANT to do after running hills is eat, shower and sleep.  But I went down and finished the quilting.  As I prepared my machine for making the binding Thursday morning I figured I might as well piece it all together.

Thursday morning, the girls came down and played at my feet while I trimmed the quilt and attached the binding.  During afternoon nap I finished sewing on the binding and it was done!

If this is your first time visiting, I made this quilt as part of Christa's String of Pearls QAL.  I made my version smaller than the original design.  Her instructions were well written and the pace of the QAL was perfect for summer sewing.  I'll definitely join in any future QALs she hosts.

From the beginning, I knew I wanted to use the Happy Go Lucky Dots for the center and grey strings (Bella Solids Graphite Grey).  It took me quite some time to decide on the Comma Dots for the background.  And as I assembled the quilt top I worried that I made the wrong decision.  It seemed like it might end up a little psychedelic.  But when I stood back from the finished top, I loved it.  It was subtle and fun all at the same time.

The quilting plan changed a half dozen times before I even started LOL.  But I think my final decision was a good one (if not the best one!).  I'm happy I decided to follow Christa's suggestion to outline the strings before beginning the FMQ.  It does a great job holding everything together throughout the quilting process.  I put spirals in the center of the squares.  The background got more spirals with curved lines around them.

The quilting process was quite enjoyable.  I feel like I've hit my groove with FMQ.  The combination of my Machingers and upping my tension has eliminated the eyelashing I used to struggle with.  I'm excited to try out some different patterns on the next few quilts.

The Details
Size: 44" x 55"
Binding: scrappy Happy Go Lucky Dots
Backing: Comma Swinging in Slate

This quilt is now up for sale in my etsy shop.  You can find all the details here.

Linking up with Amanda Jean at Crazy Mom Quilts, Amy at Crafty Shenanigans and Melissa for ALOYF mid month check in