The moment I dove into the darkest, deepest Kona gray yardage I had on my shelf and began cutting into it for my background on this Guard Rails Quilt, I knew this quilt would be something meaningful and special to me. I know it may seem like an insignificant move to most but for me it was a creative risk that I've been mostly very curious about but too afraid to make happen.
For all my years of quilting, I have always leaned toward white/light backgrounds and with the exception of a Bodhi Quilt I made a couple of years ago, I had never used a dark background fabric.
I had a good feeling though about this little creative risk I was taking and just went with it. I'm so happy I did!
The way the color palette of scraps came together and worked with the dark background just clicked from the beginning and I was on my way! I had so much fun putting these blocks together.
I didn't take many process shots because it all happened so fast and I was usually so in the zone I forgot to stop for photos! Love it when that happens!
The choice to use this cream colored sashiko thread was another creative risk for me. I was concerned that the baptist fans in this light color might detract too much from the improv work.... maybe they do, but for me, it works!
I again, just had to trust my instincts and go with my vision. And again, I'm so glad I did.
I chose to offset the linear aspects on the front with a soft floral from Hawthorne Supply Co, on the back. I love the way it picks up the colors of the front and takes some of the overall edge off the piece.
This quilt is made up of 100% cotton. The improv sections are all scraps- just leftover from previous projects.
At 46" x 46" this one is perfect for a baby quilt (for that really edgy, modern family?) or makes a great dramatic wall hanging. If interested in this piece, and you would like a hanging sleeve added, please contact me through email.
The Guard Rails Quilt pattern is available as a digital download in my shop if you'd like to have a go at your own. If you do, I highly encourage you to take some creative risks.