I'm beginning 2016 by pondering my quilting 'style'. Occasionally I post pictures on IG of projects I am working on, and occasionally Alison comments that she thinks the project 'isn't me'. I don't mind in the slightest, I would be the first to say that my style is somewhat eclectic. As my friends at Monday Modern would attest, I am also prone to saying I don't really like many quilts I have made. I would go so far as to say that I often sound like Goldilocks. "This one is too fussy... this one is too plain... this one isn't scrappy enough... this one is too scrappy..." I'm waiting for the day when I can say with excitement "this one is JUST RIGHT".
I made some collages of quilts that I do quite like as a way of thinking about what I have been making over the last couple of years. First up, the graphic series:
The top two are my favourites in this bunch. When I look at the four together I remember how much I like graphic lines/shapes.
But I also like a more scrappy look...
Again, top right is probably my favourite in this bunch (I have since given it away for a school raffle).
The two unfinished projects below are again on the scrappy continuum. The one on the left may end up being a little too quiet, while Gypsy Wife on the right is too something. I think the something has to do with the colour palette. When I look at this picture I am tempted to make it again, but use colours that are more 'me'.
And the latest project that isn't 'me' in the eyes of my friend and quilty hero Alison?
A Liberty quilt using the pattern On a Whim by Camille Roskelly. I can see my enthusiasm for graphic shapes in evidence here. Goldilocks has already started compiling her reservations about this one, but as she always enjoys the process, if not the final product, there is no cause for concern!
It's so useful to examine your likes and dislikes, and you did that so well here! I agree that enjoying the process can sometimes be more exciting than the finish. :) I can't wait to see your Liberty quilt!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year.
ReplyDeleteI would have to say that my favourite quilts of yours are your scrappy ones, in particular the AMH bottom left. Your Liberty one is looking good. Alison's quilts are fabulous, she is definitely not afraid to mix colour or patterns . Really I guess as long as you are happy with what you make, no one else's opinion matters.
'Quilty hero' eh? Going to dine out on that one for weeks (and weeks) �� Tbh, if I did a blog post like that, like Robert Downey Jr, I'd be all over the place.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post Megan - I have to say that when I think about your quilts there are two words which pop straight to mind - 'precision' and 'pretty'. That liberty quilt definitely fits (and reminds me of your prize winning quilt too).
ReplyDeleteI know when we first met, 'scrappy' wasn't your thing, but I love your recent adventures, especially "Folk Song" which I see has made it into the latest NZ Quilter, congratulations!
ReplyDeleteLooking at these, I think your style is precise, maybe symmetrical, with thought-about fabric choices that work well together. I reckon the two WIPs are not your usual style ... not enough symmetry and not your usual rich fabric choices. This post is a good idea!
ReplyDeletei'm kinda all over with style in what i've produced so far, too. part of that is that i am trying to use up stash i bought before i knew what my style was! it's a little frustrating because i'd like to explore more who i am but i'm trying to be responsible at the same time. the more i sew, the more i find what i like and don't like as much. or at all. =)
ReplyDeletei never thought your gypsy was really you, either. if i remember correctly, it was a subscription that sent the fabrics, not ones you picked. i guess that explains it's "too much something"ness and your struggle with it over time. i sure wish you would make one more "you!" for the joy of it because gypsy is such an awesome pattern and i'd like to see your take on it.
when i look at your quilts, i see a lot of bright or rich color balanced with low volume. there is definitely a scrappy element in fabric choice as well as precision. you make lots and lots of nice things so keep exploring and making! i hope you have a great quilty year, too.
Hi Megan! I love your quilts and colours! Have to say that I agree with latest; those colours and the style is different than all the others (also not 'me').
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post! x Teje
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