Improvisation but Precision

For a while now I’ve been wanting to challenge myself with another composition as a I go quilt project. That is, starting without any idea what the design will look like AND building that design as I assemble the quilt. I’ve done it once before and really enjoyed it.

The stars aligned for that challenge when I was gifted some Newfoundland fabrics and some scraps from a St. John’s store by a dear friend. I wanted all the fabric to play together, rather than languish in my stash. After flipping through my quilt books I was inspired by Jen Kingwell’s Daysleford quilt from her book Quilt Recipes. The “pattern” is more of a guide on how to do your own scrappy thing. She provides block suggestions and overall measurements, but each Daylesford will be unique.

To make my own, I basically took the concept and ran away into my own little world. You assemble the quilt like one giant log cabin, but each side can/should be unique. So I started with a pieced block then had fun deciding on each side, one side at a time. It becomes about balancing colour/value and piecing. You do have to be deliberate to have the finished top look good.

Conveniently, I got to visit Newfoundland, and my friend this summer. There I was able to pick up some more fabric and stories to add to the quilt.

She finishes at 80” x 80”, which will be perfect for warming up when coming in from a Newfoundland winter’s day. Because, yes, I plan on gifting this quilt back to my friend. But only after I make a coordinating one for her mom!