Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Doing what I want to do

I'd intended to quilt another top today, but decided I wanted to play in my strings. I sort my strings by color in the bins to the right but as you can see from the bin in front and the strings on the floor I haven't sorted recently -- that's where all the bits and pieces get tossed while I'm sewing.

I decided to work on a rectangle string quilt -- similar to the one I have instructions posted except that one was color coordinated to the border I was using and this one has everything but the kitchen sink. I also cut my black center strings narrower (1.5 inches versus 2).

My favorite tool when I'm making string blocks - my rotating mat for squaring the blocks.

I'm trying very hard NOT to think about what I should be doing (quilting tops, binding, finishing Adam's top, starting Keith's flannel quilt, and assembling the brown/pink Stars and Pinwheel blocks). I can't quite manage to do what I want guilt free but I'll keep trying.

14 comments:

Lynn said...

Aren't strings just the most fun to play with? I like the way your blocks are turning out.

Elaine said...

I really like the kitchen sink in this one. The black gives it a lot of life. You don't need wider strips for it. Black stands out just fine. Very nice.

paulette said...

Thanks for telling us about string quilts-I can't wait to make one!
Paulette

Quilter Kathy said...

That pile of strings looks like great fun! And the blocks look great! Enjoy! You are doing exactly what you "should"!

QuiltSue said...

The blocks look great Mary. One day I'm going to........ well you know what I'm going to say!

Enjoy doing what you want, that's what you decided this summer was for. The other things will still be there when you do want to do them.

Ruth's Place said...

It looks beautiful. I love string quilts. Remember quilting is a hobby, not a job. Do what you want, when you want and be guilt free. You do a lot of stuff for other people, you deserve some 'you' sewing.

Frog Quilter said...

I love strings too. I keep mine in a bag until I cannot fit anymore. Then its time to sew them up.

Easy sewing; just keep feeding the machine. :-) Liz

Nancy said...

The string blocks are wonderful. It's great. "Keep doing what you want to do."

Melissa ;-) said...

This is so pretty! I really like that the strings are different sizes!

Judy D in WA said...

Mary, practice makes perfect--keep working on things you want to do.

I love the rectangle block. I haven't seen that one yet.

bettyp said...

I amjust that way to I feel I have to staywith the plan.
Mary, what size is the blocks your working on ??

animal lover, quilt lover said...

Do love the strings! Really pretty!
Hugs Fern

Gari in AL said...

Too many shoulds makes Mary a dull girl.

Meggie said...

Now we are adults, why do we still feel that nasty old guilt? We need to give ourselves permission to have no guilt!
Love those black center strings.