After our SSQSG meeting on Sunday, I figured out what was bothering me with my SAL quilt. Kristine's orange and green blocks gave me my first clue. Her 3 blocks with the warm background were so pleasing. Also, the powerful orangy cheddar was in each block, therefore not calling attention to any one block in particular. When I got home, I discovered what I had was two different quilts.
The use of two different backgrounds worked so well in my 15 Block Sampler. It helped differentiate the blocks from one another in a straight setting.
And in this sampler quilt, which will be on the cover of my Quilt Piecing 101 Manual, it was a pleasing design choice. It helped unify a busy sampler quilt.
But I think with a streak of lightning setting and the powerful cheddar in only half the blocks, it just wasn't working.
So here is the bad news first. I have to remake all the blocks with cheddar in them. I don't have enough of the 'fireworks' background fabric to make many more blocks.
And the good news is that I have a stunning candle mat and you all have a breather while I busily remake 5 blocks. How do you like the new setting fabric? A little warmer, but a stripe! Am I crazy? Yes, but if they don't line up just perfectly, after quilting and a good wash, you will never be able to tell.
Here is a preview of the the new blocks. The fabric they are posed on is definitely the backing for this quilt and just may find its way into a border. I told you to count on me making at least one, if not more, design changes in this quilt.
Now for a little segue--Blog Hopping. I am enjoying the fall designer blog hop hosted by Gundrun. Yesterday she posted a free pattern for a quilt as you go table runner with candy corn on it. Cute, simple project for those of you lucky enough to have grandchildren!
Today, Sandy Gervais gave a free pattern for a wall hanging with a wool pumpkin on it. Since I love pumpkins, that one just may find its way into my queue.
And you will notice that I jazzed up my blog! I finally figured out how, Merumo. Enjoy!