Quilt-along fun

Quilting just got even better! I joined my first quilt-along and it was so much fun. It was great following everyone's progress on Instagram - there are so many talented quilters out there! I love, love, love this one in particular made with Cotton + Steel, primarily the basics. It's perfection!

Here's my finished mini basking in the sun on my front steps:

I settled on simple diagonal line quilting, with orange on the top and pink on the back. The pattern was Sea Breeze by Canoe Ridge Creations. This is probably the first time I altered a pattern, and it worked out perfectly to preserve the birds and flowers. It was amazing to see the elaborate patterns some of the quilt-alongers developed in their minis. I really want to make this one again and push myself a bit more.

The two-week deadline certainly kept me going. I ran out of steam a bit at the end and instead of piecing a back with the fabrics I used for the top, I grabbed Amy Butler Soul Blossoms yardage I had in my stash (snagged at a crazy good sale for $4 a metre!). It goes so well with Heather Bailey's Up Parasol on the front.

While it was a virtual quilt-along, I did have some helpers at home to encourage me along the way. Here's my borzoi Alexi checking on my progress. (And giving me a look of exasperation as she wonders if I'm ever going to leave the craft room and take her outside.)

And Aurora made sure all those piles of HSTs stayed in order while I was trimming.

The whole experience was so much fun and I'm eager to join other quilt-alongs. Host Gnome Angel posted interviews on her blog every morning with quilters who were making Sea Breeze minis, too. First thing in the morning I'd check her blog and Instagram for the latest #seabreezemqal photos. I may feel a bit adrift with my quilting now that it's done!

Be sure to check out Gnome Angel's link party to see all the amazing creations.