A belated happy New Year everyone. I've been enjoying making a slow stitching entry into 2025.
Binding
Holiday Forest (both of them) seemed like a good way to finish off one year and begin the next, and I wasn't wrong. Binding has gone from being the one part in the quilting process that I was always impatient with to something that I look forward to - a chance to relax while enjoying the finishing touches.
With all of those scrappy trees scattered about, this is a really great Christmas quilt and it has already met the 'nap test' (a few times) in it's short life.
I have Roberta to thank for being able to make it using gorgeous Laundry Basket fabrics; she generously shared her stash with me. She's also made one, choosing to add a few borders, and it is a stunner. I will share it with you next time.
There are a select number of pink trees in the quilt and they are my favourites. Many, if not all, of the fabrics are not what I would consider Christmas prints but they still work beautifully; it's the variety of texture that really gives it life. Selecting the perfect coordinating tree trunks was SO much fun!
This paisley backing has been in my stash for longer than I can remember, waiting for just the right project, and this was it. I think that there's still a large enough piece for at least another lap quilt.
And, the cheery red and white plaid binding reminds me of candy canes.
For the background fabric we both chose a soft winter white with a mottled grey and beige print that looks like delicate mini cattails and it adds a snowy softness and depth. Add in all of those little jingle bells in the panto and voilà - a Christmas quilt!
I have fond memories of the quilts that we made and used when we were growing up. They were all very utilitarian, made to cover a bed and keep us warm. So often they were made from used clothing. Then I never imagined the possibility of making a quilt just for Christmas, but now I have about four in the house and a few more that I have given away. It is a genuine treat....M
