Monday, September 23, 2013

My long-term project is completed!

Last November, I told you about a long-term project I was working on, made of pieced hexagons. I am happy to report that the quilt is done. And I mean really DONE - quilted, bound, with a label and a sleeve. It made its first public appearance at the Squanicook Colonial Quilt Guild show last week.

Hooked on Hexies - it's done!
It represents countless hours of hand-stitching to make the blocks and assemble the top, and hand applique (yuk – the A-word!) to attach the borders. Then some outstanding machine quilting by my friend Maureen Blanchard, and finally a piped binding at the edge. This finishing touch was a new technique for me. Challenging and totally worth it for the polish it lends to the overall look.

Working on the piped binding. Isn't the quilting fantastic?
I'm proud of the end result, but it's also sort of bittersweet. I have spent over a year with this creation, and now that it's done, well, what do I do with my hands? I have another English Paper Piecing project started, and while it has its charm, I don't anticipate the same extended relationship with it.

My new EPP project - Lucy Boston blocks
So I guess I'll just have to do some quick projects in the months ahead. But if I am patient and quiet, I'll bet that a new long-term project will reveal itself, and I'll embark on a new year-long adventure! 

Are you working on a long-term project? I'd love to hear about it! 
Thanks!
Judy