Sunday, December 5, 2010

Improvisational Christmas Quilt

The first step in creating this quilt was to make two Courthouse Steps blocks using just red and taupe. Next, I cut them both in half and stacked them for the center medallion "tree." (To make this work, the center "squares" were actually rectangles to start with. Otherwise the tree trunk would have ended up looking like short stubbs. You log cabin aficianados will know what I mean.)
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This quilt grew from the center outward. It was fun to play with the reds and greens to make positive and negative spaces in the blocks. I took inspiration from the Gees Bend quilts for this one. I think the red and white striped fabric adds a little pizaaz, although it's a little hard on the eyes when viewed on the computer screen. I don't know if this quilt says Christmas, but it sure was fun to make. Happy quilting! Hugs to you.

9 comments:

Poppyprint said...

It is fabulous!!! I love the striped inner border, even more because you only put it on 3 sides. Gorgeous quilt for Christmas, or any time! Great improv-ing!

Unknown said...

I love it. It is absolutely WOW@! Awesome.

Abby and Stephanie said...

I love the red and white striped zing! You have a very creative and inventive mind. It's beautiful.

Nancy said...

It says Christmas to me. I love it.

Barb said...

I love your free form design. I really like the "dental molding" look of the red an white squares on the sides.
It somehow reminds me of native american art - very cool Karen!

Nifty Quilts said...

Love it!! Original and playful. It says Christmas with a wink and a smile. I love your various greens together. I think the red stripes add more fun and a crisp surprise.

Rita said...

very clever, and so beautiful! thanks for sharing.

Riel Nason said...

Very cool! That is high-style Christmas that makes you think. Fun!!!

Nedra said...

Yes, this says Christmas.The solid colors are perfect. It almost looks like an American Indain rug design.