Sometimes, it’s hard to measure the progression of skill especially when it applies to a “hobby”. Other times, it’s so obvious that I suspect some kind of witchery is afoot. Such is the case with the Princess’ latest production of mighty-fine quiltery. To be sure, there were some long days, one or two re-do’s, a few migraines, and maybe a little cussing but in the end, the “3-D Pinwheel” quilt reveals some next level quiltage. Not that I brag on my bride or anything.
Measuring 50X72 inches and comprised of one bazillion small pieces of fabric, this quilt truly is amazing. The Princess doesn’t suffer from OCD like her husband but it still took no small effort to bring symmetry to the pattern as it evolved; lines, angles, patterns, colors…it’s all here. In abundance. There are so many angles in this piece I almost thought she hadn’t cut geometry in high school. (She did; I was there.) Getting all the moving pieces prepared was only half the battle.
Then, attention to detail to get the actual sewing done for 16 eight inch pinwheels and 14 two-and-a-half inch smaller ones. Even when I thought she was done, she wasn’t. After configuration and construction came over eight hours of free motion quilting to finish it off. A project of this magnitude is rarely a solo effort and the Princess always gives credit where it’s due. Much gratitude is showered upon Bru E., a highly valued member of the secret society of quilters, who mentored the Princess through the project.
After a well deserved sigh of relief, it was soaked in gas and set afire in the driveway. (Not really, and I’ll probably be punished for saying that.) What did happen was a small photo shoot and some careful folding before it was hung on her newly hewn quilt rack. Which, as it happens, makes it visible from where I sit, sloth-like, in my recliner. Yet another constant reminder that I married above my station.