Thursday Again

We in SoCalif have survived a sweltering few days of record-breaking heat.  It was 97, 106, 104, 103, and finally today only reached the upper 80s.  At least the humidity has been low, making it possible to still move around without feeling like you were dying.  Our recently acquired room air conditioner has made sleeping possible. A little sewing has been happening, for the retreat trip departure a week from today.  Two volunteer sign up projects are due at check in--a blind swap project with another attendee, and a challenge using provided Michael Miller fabrics (selections from In Bloom, by Sandra Clemons, and two solids).

For the swap project, I originally was going to complete an in-progress small quilt that needed a bit more machine quilting and then binding.  But while browsing at the Cotton and Chocolate quilt shop, I came across a sale bin and came home with a new idea from a Fig Tree & Co pattern.  Solids pulled from the fat quarter dresser and some Kona Snow were quickly prepped and cutting ensued.

There were so many pieces for this block (28) I needed a cutting breakdown!

I had never seen a house block like this and loved the different chimney and path parts. 

I kept the "grass" pieces, though trimmed them down.  Eliminating sashing made it more modern.  Basting, batting, backing...hmm, this tune is familiar.  

The challenge project had me experimenting unsuccessfully with scraps last week, so I went bigger.  

Drunkard's Path blocks cut at 6.5" left plenty of the prints showing after piecing.

A few rounds of switcheroo led to this layout.  I liked all the curves and color, and sewed it up this morning before work.

I'll use the remaining fat quarters for the backing and binding.  There is a lot to get done before the retreat, and my typical last minute finishes are not helping calm the stress.   I need to spend some time making lists--I love checking off items. Wish me luck!👍