Welcome Guests

I have entered that phase of life for hosting family members as overnight guests. There's just one problem. My guest beds are not well furnished. As a quilter that is sorta shameful. So last Christmas I set out to do something about it. I wanted my guests to be covered in warmth but I also wanted their cover to serve as a bedspread for my king size beds. So I started searching for an expandable king size quilt design. I settled on Judy Martin's Ohio Valley Log Cabin that I found in her EQ8 add-on. This quilt is not your typical log cabin...and that's why I chose it. Go big or go home is my natural creative jive.

So, after shopping for several shades of blue and several shades of cream neutral, I prepared my fabrics by pre-washing and heavily starching every square inch. Then I started meticulously cutting 1-1/2 inch strips, sub-cutting them into smaller sections and labeling the little stacks. Hours and hours later I got to start sewing the little pieces of strips together. I learned just how important 1/4 inch seam is with this type block. If it is not exact and consistent then the strips won't line up properly. Ask me how I know...the first two sets of blocks will be given new life as pillow shams or some other furnishings...eventually.

Once all the different block variations were made...I think there were 7 or so...I discovered the challenge of sewing them together in the correct order and directions shown on Judy Martin's plan. It's not as easy as it looks when you can't see the whole thing at one time. I was lucky to get some help at a quilt retreat in Priddy, TX from some obliging friends who were there to work on their own quilts. Thanks ladies!

Judy Martin's Ohio Valley Log Cabin

I added more borders to make a larger quilt - 116" x 116"

Now I know the full struggle of creating a masterpiece (the quilt top) only to be stumped with the next question of how to quilt it. I didn't wanted to detract from the quilt top with an ornate and intricate pattern. Neither did I want to insult the quilt top with a pattern that was too ordinary and simplistic. I chose this pattern by Christy Dillon www.mycreativestitches.com

Christy Dillon's pattern "Hills and Valleys 2" adds the movement and interest that I was looking to create along with Hobb's Tuscany Wool batting.

After machine binding the edges my Ohio Valley Log Cabin was ready to welcome guests.

Of course, no quilt is truly complete until it has a label. I just don't know yet how to welcome my guests. I want to say something on the label that makes them smile, maybe laugh a little, and definitely know that this quilt was made for each one's comfort and enjoyment. Ideas anyone?? Feel free to email me at KimberlyKquilting@gmail.com

Yes, I agree! This quilt needs some pillow shams to complete the picture!