For a long time, I’ve wanted to do a house quilt. And with the debut of my first fabric line, Architextures–an homage to my architectural roots–I thought it a fitting opportunity to create one. Instead of creating just one house to repeat, I decided to have an adventure by exploring a variety of houses. After all, that is what I see in my favorite neighborhoods, a charming mix of different architectural styles and house types. So, I started the design journey for this quilt in my hometown, roaming the streets with my sketchbook and camera in hand. I toured some of the oldest neighborhoods looking for interesting details to use in my quilt. I found loads of character in porches, awnings, and rooflines. In the end, there are 9 spaces (blocks) that make up the quilt.
As a creative bonus, I commissioned Alexandra Reisman to create a series of nine original short stories. These stories offer a snapshot of life in each house (and non-house), adding another creative dimension to the project.
Project size : 61″ x 72-1/4″
Local is a printed, physical pattern that includes all 9 portions of the Block-Of-The-Month project.
Techniques : Paper/foundation piecing and basic piecing
Pattern extras : This pattern includes a series of original short stories by Alexandra Reisman, as well as an illustrated technique glossary, handy tip section, quilting diagrams, and directions for making a hanging sleeve.
Make a social distancing quilt!
This 6′ Foot Ruler quilt is a cheeky reminder in this time of social distancing of what six feet (or 2 yards for us quilters!) looks like. Make this quilt/runner as a utilitarian decoration for display and use at your next socially distanced gathering. When not being used for a utilitarian purpose, it also makes a fun table or bed runner. Make one as a gift for:
• a baby or child to be used as a growth chart
• a teacher as a wall hanging for their classroom
• a handy person as a wall hanging in their garage or work space
The completed quilt top will measure approximately 75½” x 12½”, a generous 6′ tape measure that will shrink a bit when you quilt it and be closer to 6′ long.
6 Foot Ruler is the perfect project for the intermediate foundation paper piecer. This tested pattern contains both detailed instructions and diagrams, making it easy to piece. Use two different fabrics or use what you have in your stash and make it scrappy!
Fresh from Japan, the much-anticipated collection of Nani Iro sewing patterns is finally available in English! Beloved by art fans and textile enthusiasts around the world, Nani Iro fabric has developed a cult following since the brand’s inception by artist Naomi Ito in 2002. With their simple, yet artful design, the 18 garment patterns in this book showcase fluid movement and beautiful drape for signature Nani Iro style. You’ll find instructions for stitching up a wardrobe of comfortable, flowy pieces that you’ll look forward to wearing again and again, including The Basic Blouse, The Cocoon Dress, and The Everyday Jumpsuit. Inside, you’ll find outfit inspiration for mixing and matching me-made pieces to create artistically layered outfits. Plus, take a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s studio in Osaka for glimpse at the studio team’s favorite ways to style their Nani Iro pieces. Paperback. 120 pages plus full-size pattern sheets.
