I am so pleased with how this quilt came out, I seriously considered changing the name of one of my girls to Mckinley so that I can keep it. But, in the end, I can't think of a better home for this one. Mckinley was recently adopted by long term patients who I consider friends, after a long struggle with infertility. It is such a happy ending, and I am thrilled to do something for this beautiful new family!
I made the quilt using a Moda Hunky Dory charm pack, then framed each square in white to make it pop. The back is a solid of my favorite pattern from this series- the flowers are so vibrant and retro looking. I then bound it in the pink polka dot from the series. I also put in a white bar on which I hand embroidered Mckinley's name. To do so I printed a font and size on my computer, held it up to a window, and traced it onto the white sash. I then used 3 embroidery threads to stitch it up. Thanks to Amy at NanaCo for the advice! I extended the name stash to the edges, beyond the borders of the blocks, to add interest. I really like how it breaks up the quilt.
Next, I added a few shabby fabric flowers, with mismatched button centers, to add more texture and interest to the quilt. I love it! This idea was from Kathy at Magnolia Designs- she even lent me her Big Shot to cut the fabrics :-) They look even better all wrinkled up, once washed.
For quilting, I machine stitched 1/4 inch from all the borders. It really brings it all together!
I hope Mckinley and her family enjoy the quilt!
In another note, the hubby and I are celebrating our 10 year anniversary today! Time flies. We are heading out for a swanky dinner tonight....and I have a BIG surprise gift planned. Can't wait to see his face! I will reveal tomorrow......
Wow, I saw this on Flickr and it's just beautiful. Great job. I love charm packs for baby quilts. Beautiful...I may have to use your idea sometime, if that's okay!
ReplyDeleteReally adorable and i'm sure she'll love it! I especially love the hand embroidery ...a lovely touch!
ReplyDeleteSo pretty! I love Hunky Dory.
ReplyDeleteAs the recipients of this quilt we cannot put into words how much we LOVE it! Everyone that sees it comments on it's originality and beauty. It's a beautiful gift for our little angel made with love by a dear friend, it doesn't get any better than that.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kristi
oxoxo Mckinley and her mommy and daddy
I saw your post on Quiltstory and LOVED it. You are so talented!
ReplyDeleteThis is so stunning- I actually went out and bought the Hunky Dory Charm pack as I was so inspired. Beautifully designed and put together, and such a wonderful gift!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this quilt!! You did a great job! I have a question for you about the flowers. Did you back them with anything or put interfacing on the back? I wasn't sure if you needed to or if they would hold up well without anything.
ReplyDeleteHi..i am new to your blog..found you via flickr...
ReplyDeletei absolutely adore this quilt and i know the family will too...
I LOVED this quilt so much that i did my best to recreate it and used it to teach my niece to quilt. thank you for the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteWow gorgeous! I have been looking for a quilt to make for my daughters and just spotted this one in my search. Seeing as our Surname is McKinley i think its meant to be and i must make this quilt as a family heirloom :) .
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