Thursday, September 13, 2018

When I grow up!

It seems to me it is time for me to grow up. It is time for me to join the big girls and design and stitch a truly grown up quilt. You know the girls. Those whom dream up, design and stitch the most amazing quilts. Those quilts that when you look upon them rather nonplussed, your mouth drops open with drool uncontrollably dripping from the corners and as you scratch your cranium, wondering "how on earth did 'she' make that"!! For me, now is the time to fashion a quilt that is just a little out of my comfort zone. For a while now I have felt it is time for me to "begin the beguine".....to begin the dance of the quilt that has been gliding and swaying and twirling around and around in my brain pan for a very long time.

I mostly stitch quilts that really do not overtax a lot of brain cells, in the designing and then making that design a reality. Don't get me wrong, I adore quilts spilling over with scrappy loveliness. Indeed, I am at my happiest when I am stitching a quilt oozing with scrappylicious delight.

BUT.......for my next quilt I want to try something new. I want to push myself. I want to learn and discover new things that challenge me along the way.

This quilt has been in my imagination for a very long time. I have dreamt about it for so long now that I can see it in my mind's eye. I have been day dreaming of fashioning a quilt with blossoms flourishing all over. I want it to be a wild garden where flowers of each season dance together in one quilt. This quilt is one where I will applique all the flowers by hand. I know........what am I thinking!!

These two fabrics are what I will use for the grass and the sky. Both fabrics evoke an impressionistic feeling, perfect for my vision for this quilt. The green is a soft one with just the hint of  smudges of tiny watercolour flowers and the sky is a soft batik dancing in pastel shades, reminscent of those soft, whispering, early morning misty skies that greet me on my walks as the sun rises.

I have been hunting and gathering oodles of Kona solids for a while now and other hand dyed fabrics for the flowers, leaves, birds, butterflies........in readiness for my hand applique pretty.

I want this quilt to be dancing with flowers evocative of those that flourish in the garden outside my windows....Daffodils, Tulips, Bluebells, Foxgloves, Pansies, Magnolias, Forget Me Nots, Roses, Hydrangeas (though these could prove a bit tricky)......Lilies, Irises, Hollyhocks, Lilacs, Cosmos...............flowers that gift me with their  beauty and delight me each season. I want this quilt to celebrate the magic my darling husband has created on our little plot of earth these past ten years. He has dug, toiled, sweated, laboured........plodded on and on, sprinkling beauty from his magical gardener's wand everywhere. He has transformed a patch of earth that was once an altar to the 'junk god' and created a garden of beauty, tranquility and stuff of dreams. His garden is my inspiration. This quilt is the packet of mixed seeds that were planted many, many moons ago in my dreams and are now beginning to germinate.

All washed and ready to go. Hues with scrummy names.......Poppy, Mango, Cantalope, Cerise, Candy Green, Papaya, Kumquat, Bubble Gum, Azalea, Morning Glory, Bright Flamingo, Noble Purple....so many gorgeous hues to bloom in the garden of my dreams.

As it is Spring and everywhere I look I see a "host of golden Daffodils" sashaying in the breeze, illuminated by the soft, Spring sunshine; they are the first flowers I will applique.

I am going to experiment with different methods of applique and see which method works best for me. For inspiration, when compiling the pictures of the flowers, I will use the many garden books that line the shelves here in my library, colouring pages sourced from the internet and my own sketches. But....I suppose the greatest inspiration will be the beauty outside my windows.....the flowers that smile at me each day, here in the garden.


I am quite certain there will be many new concepts I will encounter and learn as I stroll along this new flower-lined path. I am so excited about this quilt. There will be moments of joy, probably more moments of sheer exasperation and frustration, but you know what, I am skipping with delight at the thought of this quilt and discover if what is in my imagination looks equally amazing in real life. Why oh why is it that everything looks better, more grandiose in one's head?? As it is me, I will have no planned overall drawing to guide me along the way.  This quilt is drawn in my head. =) I seem to work best when I make it up as I go along.

I won't be stitching my flowers onto the background for a while yet as there are so many flowers to design and stitch before the overall stitching begins. There are much too many flowers to be 'growed' before I begin to arrange and stitch.

Of course, the walking along the path for this quilt  is going to be a very slow, but contented stroll. This quilt will not be finished any time soon but I don't mind in the least as I rather love slow hand stitching....I am a patient gal. In between the stitching of this pretty, I am sure I will be distracted by other imaginings, other tarted up pretties, other scrappy quilts, one-of-a-kind bags....dare I say, the odd cushion of baskets overspilling with ribbon flowers. I am a gal whom never has one pretty in the creative pipeline at any one time. Having several pretties jostling for attention at any given time is what makes the creative life so terribly interesting, don't you think??

As always, thank you lovelies for popping into my place. Thank you for reading my "stuff and nonsense" and humouring my rather fuzzy dreams of my big girl quilt; my grown up quilt. Your sweet visits always delight my day. Each one of you makes me want to skip through my flower-filled day. Welcome too, all you lovely ladies who are new to my little blog. It is a most beautiful thing to have you visit. Sending you all a little posy of Love, this beautiful Spring-time day.♥

Until the next time...........




Linking up this week:
Finish or Not Friday at Busy Hand Quilts
Slow Stitching Sunday at Kathy's Quilts
Wandering Camera at Soma's Whims and Fancies


67 comments:

  1. I can't wait to see what your magical hands create, Kim! I know you have a vision in that sweet brain of yours, and I look forward to seeing the progress. The fabrics are so pretty, and all prepared for your stitching to begin.
    I saw where your gorgeous cushion landed and was thrilled to see that it's a home where it will be appreciated and loved. It is perfect for Jann! xxoo

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  2. It is going to be gorgeous, I am sure. Those dafs are so pretty and the colors are all luscious.

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  3. Hi skim,wow thus is going to be stunning,love those colours and flowers,well done my friend xx

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  4. Oh, Kim! How beautiful this will be! I love your sense of colors and how you put them together. You have such a creative mind! Can't wait to see it finished!

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  5. My goodness! That whirlpool of gorgeous fabric you gathered together looks entrancing! I can only dare imagine the beauty that will be born from your stitches and cannot wait for another teaser!

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  6. Oh, this is gonna be GOOD!! I love what you are sharing already. Thank you for blogging. I love this place.
    xx, Carol

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  7. This sounds like a terrific project. Can't wait to see how it goes. I seriously enjoyed your writing in this, too. (The photos, of course, were awesome as usual). :-)

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  8. Wow I am in love with your quilt already and you have barely started. All of the fabrics you have chosen are so pretty and the flowers you have started with are so beautiful! Think of us in our dreary winter months as you enjoy your springtime!

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  9. Sweet friend, it's always a JOY to read your "stuff and nonsense." Oh, how I love reading your melodic words and seeing your beautiful images. Visiting your blog is like taking a walk in the the warm sunshine while picking lovely wildflowers. Hugs to you, dear Kim!

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  10. That is quite the challenge you are giving yourself with this newest idea quilt; but if anyone can make it work...I am sure you are just the person! It will be amazing.

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    1. Thank you, Sandra. Fingers crossed this quilt will work. Kim Xx

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  11. I am amazed that is is spring for you! And such gorgeous daffodils. I love the quilt!

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  12. Kim, how exciting and delightful. My heart is dancing with your flowers in anticipation of seeing your flower seedlings "grow". ♥

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  13. Oh I do so look forward to seeing your quilt come to life dear Kim. Sharing in your dream I guess you could say. And I am quite sure it will be magnificent as is every single thing that you create with your hands!!

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  14. Beautiful photographs that I keep flicking through, I love the one of the fabrics on the washing line. It would be lovely to see more pictures of your garden. I am looking forward to following your progress on this journey. xx

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  15. Wow! What an amazing project you have planed, you have lots of gorgeous fabrics and ideas, can't wait to see what you come up with!

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  16. Oooh you're heading into Spring and we're heading into Fall. How fun for you. I like it that you are challenging yourself. I think you will amaze as always. Enjoy the creative journey and I'll be popping in to track the progress. Can't wait to see it.
    xx Beca

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  17. Lovely post !
    Gorgeous daffodils !!!
    Growing up ? Why ? ;) ? You are perfect like you are...
    Have a lovely "springly" weekend !
    Hug
    Anna

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  18. Your new quilt is going to be extraordinary! I love the ideas for it that you have shared and I know I cannot possibly imagine in my minds eye the beauty it will turn out to be. Your hands are full of magical creativeness so I know it will be full of Spring time loveliness. Your daffodils are perfect!

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  19. Daffodils! My favorite. In fabric or the real thing. Nothing says 'spring is here' like daffodils! You have a real gift for photography and combining colors. Your pictures inspire me.

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  20. It is going to be amazing!!! I look forward to following your journey!! And all those yummy fabrics - of its amazing!!!

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  21. I am so excited; if the daffs are an example of what is to come, I am already in awe. It is going to be a wonder and I can't wait to watch it grow. Such fun!

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    1. Thank you so much, Carole. I am a little excited to see my flowers grow, too. Thank you for popping by, lovely lady. Kim Xx

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  22. Sounds like you are going to have a whole lot of fun designing!!

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  23. A wonderful post, you have caught my attention! I look forward to seeing what happens next!

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  24. Wow KIm what wonderful ideas you have, I am sure your quilt will be beautiful like all your work
    Best wishes
    Kay c xx

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    1. Thank you so much, dear Kay and thank you for your sweet visit. Kim Xx

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  25. Wow. Those daffodils are so beautiful.

    Experimenting with different methods of applique is a great idea. I have learned for myself that trying is key to knowing. Watching methods is not enough. When you try them all you will find thre right fit for you.

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  26. Your entire blog dances with flowers and butterflies! Lovely fabrics, plans and daffodils!

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  27. Wow! I love all your wonderful fabrics. Your daffodils are lovely. Can’t wait to see all the blooming beauty. I habe no doubt that it will definitely be a glorious garden walk of a quilt!
    Happy spring, Kim!

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    1. The fabrics are lovely aren't they. I hope all my flowers bloom happily together. Kim Xx

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  28. I'm sure that your quilt will be fantastic again ☺ after all, you have golden hands!!!
    The daffodils and flowers are all so colorful and the fabric and colors so beautiful!
    Have a very nice weekend dear Kim.♥

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    1. I hope so, Loes, though I am not sure about the "golden hands".....but thank you. =) You have a fabulous weekend too, lovely Loes. Kim Xx

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  29. Oh, I can't wait to see what you come up with (but take your time - no pressure LOL!)
    All of your quilts are amazing, Kim.

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  30. Kim, I can picture that quilt in my mind too! What gorgeous colors and ideas you have. The applique sounds like a lot of close work, I don't know how you do it! I cannot believe your prior quilts have not challenged you....I don't think I could do any of the quilts you have already completed! Your handiwork is totally amazing and I cannot wait to see how this all unfolds. Always so nice to visit you. Your posts are cheery and full of the prettiest things! Happy spring! Enjoy! xx Linda

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    1. Yes, this quilt will have oodles of close stitching, but that's okay as I kinda love slow hand stitching. Mind you by the time I finish all the hand applique and then all the hand quilting, I may never want to hand stitch ever again. =) Thank you for visiting my happy spring world, Linda. I hope you are enjoying your Fall. Kim Xx

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  31. Well I don't think you need to grow up one bit...I like you just the way you are. I have no doubt that this creation will be everything you have dreamed about...but then I wonder, how can you out-do the loveliness you have already created? I'm sure I will be amazed....again! Can't wait to see it!

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  32. Oh Kim you have a wonderful start to your big girl quilt, how exciting to take on such a big quilt, and as you say you have such wonderful inspiration all around you to make this special quilt. I have done a few little applique wall hangings, they were suppose to be different blocks for a quilt, but instead of making a big quilt I made little wall hangings instead :) Enjoy every minute of creating this!!

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  33. I love your daffodils! I will wait patiently to see how it goes ;)

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  34. JUST GORGEOUS! I love all your colors hanging on the line. Your daffodils are beautiful.

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  35. Oh, this is going to be a treat to follow! You already have glorious bunch of fabrics all washed and ready to go. What could be better?

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  36. Aughhhh your spring is budding as our Fall is approaching and leaves gradually begin to change color. I wondered what your new stitching project was. It's wonderful....not that I need to start another project...but I'm missing having an applique project at hand. :) :)

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  37. What beautiful flowers. You grown up quilt sounds stunning... it will be fun to watch it grow.

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  38. I'm excited about this quilt too! You've amassed a lovely selection of fabrics and your daffodil is a wonderful beginning. I'm looking forward to following along on this adventure :)

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  39. Oh My! Your fabrics are gorgeous just hanging out on the clothes line. The daffodils look more than what a beginner would attempt. You are more than ready for a big girl quilt. Looking forward to your progress.

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  40. It's a bit hard for me to envision what you label as a big girl quilt. Let me tell you, I always think you are creating jaw-dropping big girl quilts. But, while I say that, I like to think I have a vision of something that just might be similar to your creation. You have shared the most fabulous pictures of garden flowers and so I know you'll be growing your own quilt flowers with love and with flair. I'll be following along and will live vicariously through your postings - assuming that you'll be sharing. Those daffodils are looking mighty sweet. BTW, I love the background colors you chose. The best picture was of the fabrics waving on the clothesline. I just love to see fabrics/clothes swaying in the breeze; perfectly glorious.

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  41. Your project sounds wonderful, and the fabric colours are superb. Good luck! Looking forward to seeing how it all turns out

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  42. ooooh you have daffodils, they are one of my favorites!! i don't know what you mean about growing up?? honestly...my mouth drops open and i drool, every time i see one of your quilts. every thing you create is spectacular!!

    the fabrics on the clothesline are gorgeous, that was such a great way to show them off!! i can't wait to see your progress!!!

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  43. Oh no - please don't grow up!!! We love you just the way you are. I love reading about your excitement over your new creation - and I know, beyond any doubt, that it will indeed be glorious. Can't wait to watch the evolution!!

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  44. Dear Sweet Lizzie, if we grow up---we lose the wonder, the lack of fear to try something new, the essence of 'playing' with our surroundings. If you are an artist you should never grow up----! Please don't!

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  45. Lovely new project and the colours are so pretty. A wonderful new flowery quilt very appropriate with Spring on its way and inspiration everywhere.

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  46. I am impressed by your ambition - you go, girl! Based on your other projects, I have no doubt you will come through this with flying flowers (colors)! I look forward to future updates!

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  47. Your daffodils look so pretty, Happy Spring !!! I just purchased a bag of daffodil bulbs and I'm excited to get them planted. I've always been a tulips girl, but now I have so much more room for planting and the more the merrier :) I love planting flowers that come back every year. This post is beautiful, so full of color and I love the idea of a quilt that is dancing with flowers.
    You are amazing!
    Love always,
    Connie :)

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  48. Oooooh! I can't wait to see the progress on your beautiful dream quilt, Kim! I love your daffodils and all the pretty fabrics. I am a firm believer in having many projects going at once.....that way you can never get bored! What a lovely tribute to your dear husband's garden. Love the pretty, pretty pictures. Hugs xo Karen

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    1. Hello lovely Karen, how lovely to have you visit. I was only thinking the other day it has been an age since I visited you. I have missed visiting your beautiful place this past summer. I will have to high tail up there to see what gorgeous happenings you have been up to. Thank you for your sweet comments. Kim Xx

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  49. What a beautiful post - fresh flowers, fabrics, books - so much pretty to look at. Looking forward to seeing this vision come to life.

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  50. Oh, Kim! You make me want to skip with you!
    Great idea for your “Grown Up“ quilt!
    Don’t those fabrics look fabulous hanging on the line, but, oh, how I hate washing all the fabric I buy ..... but I do wash mine too!
    Looking forward to seeing your dream quilt one day.
    Hugs,
    Barbara xx

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  51. Oooh, I was already drooling over all those beautiful fabrics hanging on the line!!! Enjoy your creating!

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    1. Thank you so much, Debby. It is a delight to have you visit my little place. Beautiful fabrics always look fabulous hanging on the line, blowing in the breeze, don't they. Kim Xx

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  52. A brisk Autumn 'Hello' from our little farmlet in Southeast Minnesota, USA! You are entering my most fave season---fresh, sunny, dewy, bursting with flowering delights----SPRING! I have peeked at a very few of your previous jottings and find inspiration that wildly feeds my dreams. I so look forward to witnessing the birthing of this latest "child"........hugs.........

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    1. A warm Spring hello back at you, Doreen. =) Isn't Spring the loveliest season, filled with so many flowering delights. The garden is beginning to explode down here......love it! Now.....if only the weather began to co-operate and warm up. Thank you for your sweet comments and visit. Kim Xx

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  53. Your posts are a feast for the eyes. Such lovely fabrics and who doesn’t love daffodils?

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  54. Wow Kim, that's one big project. I'm looking forward to seeing it evolve :-)

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  55. I am so glad you linked up on Wandering Camera. Somehow I missed this post completely. Why would you want to grow up? That's silly since grown ups have no imagination :)
    The fabrics on your washline are gorgeous and what a beautiful photo you took of them. They definitely evoke an impressionistic feeling. I can easily imagine you painting like Monet with your fabric.

    -Soma

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  56. Wow, oh, wow! Your quilt sounds fantastic. I can see it, with your colors and flowers. You go! i love you style of creating and working and dreaming and doing. Mine's similar. Often times I have no idea which way to go on a project until I'm there doing it. Have fun with your quilt!

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  57. The fabrics on the washing line... and the promise of lots and lots of creative fun. Cannot wait to see! Anna x

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