Me and my hand-crank Singer have come a long way and I really wanted to try my hand at quilting. My only experience in this area has been the long nights where I have sat and made cushion covers using the hexagon paper template, hand-sewing around the edges and removing the templates. Note to self: must find last project to finish it - would make excellent blanket for rocker (not to mention blog).
Anyhoo, again trawling through my sources I came upon this pattern and decided to give it a go..... (http://www.allpeoplequilt/bags-pillows-gift/bags-andpurses/quilted-tote-bag)
I already had the fabric in mind I wanted to use and as you can see from the photo, I was absolutely right. The bag took a weekend to make - this did not include the cutting out - and my concentration span increased significantly. The making of the bag itself wasn't much of a challenge, it was the quilting which took the time. I practiced a little on scrap pieces but finally bit the bullet and quilted the pocket. I used a pencil feintly on the lining to draw lines as I wanted to make the finish as professional looking as I could and didn't want wonky quilting lines on the front of the bag. (I can hear all the sharp intakes of breath as I type but I didn't know how else to do this at the time and it once I had sewn my lines, the pencil line disappeared) I felt much happier about the effect when the pocket was finished and so followed the same process when I quilted the bag body.
The finished bag is lovely. I am so proud of myself. It may only be straight line quilting but my first attempt looks great and I can't wait 'til I can try out this technique when I have mastered the art of sewing with an electric machine!! The possibilities are endless......................... (don't hold your breath) :0D
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