Lately...

I have not got much quilting done lately but have been working on a few small things.

Made progress on the medallion quilt which is part of the SMQG BOM for this year. I do like the way it is progressing.

Recently I bought the double pocket pouch pattern by Aneela Hoey. I really like the pouch and thought it makes a great gift. The zipper assembly on the outside is a bit tricky but her instructions are impeccable. Debbie from A Quilter's Table was the recipient of my first attempt.  Hopefully I did not screw it up too much.

Then I decided to gift them to my mom and sister-in-law as Mother's Day gifts.

Here is the latest attempt. I think it is becoming easier each time I make it.

I see many more of these in my future as I really do like the pattern and how the pouch looks.

Linking up to: Fabric Tuesday

Guild Activities

A few projects for our February Seattle MQG meeting.

First up a Valentine's day postcard for a swap. I scaled down this block by Sarah at No {Hats} in the House to fit a 5" x 8" postcard. It made getting crisp edges a bit tricky. I guess I need to invest in a really good pair of scissors. My Fiskars were not up to the job. Then I appliqued the block with a straight stitch along the edges.

For the back, I added a fabric postage stamp and stamped it to make it look like a postcard. I deliberately left the to and from sections blank, to be filled by the recipient who gets it at the swap.

I also started on the center of my medallion quilt for the BOM. Lately I have been working with dark, mostly masculine colors so decided to switch it up and use some fresh, light colors for this one. Here is the 12.5" unfinished medallion center.

The last time I attempted this block for a bee it ended disastrously. I found it frustrating and fiddly and gave up on the block. However, I have never been one to shy away from a challenge. I recently came across the printed paper pattern while unpacking my quilting papers and decided to give it another try. This time around I went slow and took my time, but it was worth it. I was pretty pleased with the result. A good start to my medallion quilt!

I think I have had my share of paper piecing for a while. In case you are looking for the templates, unfortunately none of my original bookmarks worked. I could not find them on the 'Quilting on the Square' website either. I guess they are no longer available for download. Lucky for me I had a spare set printed out from my previous attempt.

Linking up to: Crazy Mom Quilts, TGIFF