Tree of Knowledge
January 25, 2012
General Info
| Start Date | Jan 5, 2012 |
|---|---|
| Finish Date | Jan 25, 2012 |
| Status | Finished |
| Size | 25.5″ x 28″ |
| Pattern | My own design |
| What it’s for | Me |
| Batting | Matilda’s Own 100% cotton batting. |
Quilt Top Notes/Techniques
My quilt was inspired by Frances Moore\’s tree quilt featured in the video for the January Free Motion Quilting Challenge. I wanted something to go into my office where I work as a knowledge analyst and this design came to mind. I foundation pieced the borders from my green (and some yellow and red) scraps.
Over time, I liked the quilt more and more. Eventually I entered it into the NSW Quilt Guild Under 35’s quilt show in September 2012.
Quilting Notes/Techniques
I used Gutterman 50wt cotton thread to do the heart leaf motif in the center with a size 70 needle. The appliques were also free motion quilted with 50wt, but a size 80 needle was needed to prevent skipped stitches. For the border I used Gutterman Sulky 30 wt cotton and a size 80 needle to do the spiral leaf motif. I blocked the quilt before binding, which significantly improved its flatness.
I’m still not 100% happy with my stitch length. It is too long and varied, especially on freehand designs. I need to work on speeding up and varying my machine speed while slowing down my hands. Also, I am not getting great tension on the back of the quilt. I’m having issues with excess loops of thread as well as occasional bird’s nests, even while using a Bobbin Genie.
Progress Pictures
