Tuesday, July 1, 2008

a birdcage block

so I finished my block for the next month of the quilt bee.

block for common threads quilting bee

I had good intentions to follow the guidelines Melissa shared. I like the gumdrop-esque quilt from her inspiration photos, so I started with the bird fabric as a feature for the center. somehow as I went, the block evolved to be less modern or wonky, and a lot more literal. I let it sit half finished for a week as I debated where to take it and ended up going with a more traditional sort of design. the border and overall look is good bit more precious than I intended. this is my worry with the quilt bee, that I will have the loser block that doesn't match with the others. I hope it ends up working with the rest.

on a more positive note, I have to say that I really enjoy working under the constraints of other people's fabric and suggestions to make a block. it's a little like Project Runway or something, it pushes me to be more creative and try new things I might not try on my own. for this block, it was the first time I tried to piece a shape more complicated than a square or diamond with that center piece. it's not perfect, but I might dabble with the approach in future quilts.

11 comments:

One Shabby Chick said...

OK this is fabulous - or fierce if you like :-)
I LOVE the birdcage - too cute! I have no idea what I'm going to come up with but I'm so loving your block!

Lunden said...

Your block is gorgeous, really, really gorgeous.

Unknown said...

Ok, this is beautiful. What a fabulous idea.

Oiyi said...

I love it! Wonderful block.

bettyninja said...

I love this too!

Rebekah said...

such a cute idea to make a bird cage! This block is absolutely darling and you really should wait a few weeks to post your creation so that you don't intimidate the rest of us : )

Lisa said...

This is very cool - what a great idea!

nasancheyev said...

i am intimidated.

Anonymous said...

I think Tim Gunn would approve. I really like the block, it's not too precious at all. Kudos for you for taking on the challenge. I admire that.

Jessica said...

i think this block is adorable. I never would have seen the inspiration quilt and come up with something so lovely. it makes me wish i could join this kind of quilting bee someday.

Wendy said...

Oh my! I just love it. Now I'm even more nervous to start mine.