Tuesday, July 24, 2012

My Fabric Box & GGA Quilt Finish

Hi Everyone!

I'm excited to share my finished Great Granny Quilt but, first I thought I'd share a tip with you and a new green block that I decided to re-do before I show you the quilt. Of course, I can't prevent you from being as excited as I am and scrolling down to have a look but, that's okay. Scroll away, just make sure and come back to read about my great fabric tip.

So, here's my collection of 2.5 inch squares that I started 5 or 6 years ago. I can never remember the exact day but, it's been a long time now since I made my box of fabric squares.


Anyway, when I first saw the Great Granny Along I immediately pulled out my box of squares. It was a great resource of already cut 2.5 x 2.5 inch squares and while I was working on the Great Granny Along I actually added more squares to my box every time I cut new fabric for my blocks.

Supplies for Fabric Box Collection of 2.5" Squares"
  • 12.5 inch Plastic Scrapbook Box
  • Cereal Box Cardboard (fabric dividers)
  • Variety of 2.5 x 2.5 inch square of fabric

Start Collecting 2.5 x 2.5 inch squares:
  • Whenever you buy fabric cut a 2.5 inch strip off and then subcut it into 16 squares.
  • Whenever you're cutting fabric for a quilt project just cut an extra 2.5 inch strip and then subcut it into 16 squares.
  • Whenever you have any leftover scraps just cut them into 2.5x 2.5 inch squares.
  • Whenever you have a minute add squares to your box and before you know it you will have quite a few 2.5 inch square ready to use for any project you're working on.


Here's the re-do on one of my Great Granny Blocks.


Here are a few pictures of my finished quilt!

I used Lori's instructions on cutting the sashings and the border. Go HERE for the tutorial.

Notice the squares in the sashings?


Well, I decided to add my own flare by hand appliqueing squares where the blocks intersect.
The applique squares are set on point to compliment the pattern.

Here's How I Made the Squares:
  • I used 16 squares measuring 2.5 x2.5 inches.
  • Starch one fabric square at a time.
  • Turn the fabric 1/4 inch on one side then press.
  • Turn the fabric 1/4 inch on the opposite side then press.
  • Repeat for the remaining two sides of the square.
  • I used Applique glue to secure the squares in place.
  • I then used matching threads to applique each square in place.


My husband helped me out by holding the quilt but the wind wasn't cooperating.
He's been on conference calls all morning so I had to make it quick.


The wind finally died down and I was able to catch a few pictures before his next meeting.


I'm really happy with how it turned out and can hardly wait for, my friend, Kaylene to quilt it!!!


If this quilt has inspired you, it's not too late to join the Great Granny Along. Go HERE to read more about it and her links will direct you where to go to sign up.

32 comments:

Dora, the Quilter said...

I love your applique squares at the intersection of the blocks. I also love the fact that they extend a bit beyond the sashing.

Nancy said...

Love the appliqued squares.. and your colors are so bright... love it!

Jan said...

I love the fabric box idea. I think it's brilliant. As is the appliquéd squares.

Leah said...

Love it! I have been debating on whether or not I wanted to jump on the bandwagon with this quilt along and your quilt may just push me on the cart. Love the applique squares they are wonderful!! It's amazing how one little element can change the whole look and feel of something. Just lovely.

my happy bluebird said...

Your quilt is absolutely gorgeous! Your hubby did a great job of modeling it. Would love to see a photo of it after it is quilted! Thanks so much for the fun tip on the 2 1/2" squares.

Seams Sew Together said...

Love your quilt Kim and I am going to start a 2.5" inch collection of scraps as well, thanks for the tip

Betsy said...

Kim, it is fabulous. Is there washing in between each block?

Anonymous said...

Very cute quilt, love the fabrics and the colors. The appliqued squares are a perfect touch. The idea for your fabric box is super. Just wondering if you sort styles, like all 30s in one, or do you strictly sort by color. Love the idea...
Thanks for sharing!
Sandy E-H in Northern MN

Eileen said...

So, so beautiful Kim!!

Unknown said...

Great tip and beautiful quilt!!!

Apple Avenue Quilts said...

It's gorgeous! I love your bright happy colors. and the square at the intersection adds so much.

Joyce said...

I love the appliqued squares! Such a clever idea!

Jackie's Stitches said...

I love your touch of the on point applique setting squares. Keeping a 2.5" square box is a great idea too, they are so versatile.

Carol said...

Kim your quilt is absolutely wonderful...love the appliqued squares..what a great addition. Oh your fabric box idea is out of this world! LOVE it!

Meredith said...

That is beautiful and thank you for the tip!

Nanna said...

love the progress! & I am so going after one of those scrapbook bins lol!
Helen

•stephanie• said...

i'm coveting your box of squares, especially knowing that darling quilt happened because of all the cute fabric you've collected. what a great idea.

and i got my flickr group question answered in this post. the appliqued squares are the perfect addition. i just love this quilt sooooooooo much!

dream quilt create said...

Your quilt is beautiful! That was genius to add the squares, I wish I had thought of that:)

Candice said...

I LOVE it- it looks amazing!!! :)

Maxine said...

Love this quilt...Also the fabric collection box..on the to do list. The appliqued squares are perfect. Can't wait to see it quilted..

Bari Jo said...

Oh my goodness - this just keeps getting better and better! I LOVE the appliquéd squares on point!!! And thank you for the stash busting tip for the 2.5 inch squares - such a GREAT idea! I have so many scraps I can't part with and this will help make them ready to use! Your quilt is beautiful - can't wait to see how you quilt it! ;O)

Jeanne said...

Your box of squares is a lot prettier than my box. VBG The quilt turned out so pretty.

Caro said...

It's too stinking' cute!

Darlene said...

Love your quilt - it's adorable. The appliqued squares in the intersections is a perfect addition.

Your box of 2.5" squares is wonderful. What a fabulous idea. How many squares do you estimate you have? :-) Just curious.

momof3 said...

Very cute quilt!! I also love your idea for the squares. So much can be done with this size square, I think you have inspired me.

Thimbleanna said...

Wow Kim -- that idea with the squares in the box is awesome. Do you have plans yet for what you'll do with them? And your quilt looks great -- that sure was quick!

Anne said...

I love your quilt!!! Love, love, love the applique squares.

Nanette Merrill said...

It is perfect. I love how the white sashing and appliqued blocks set the whole quilt into a "thing". It is fantastic. Mark makes a great model, too.

Unknown said...

nice compliment with those appliqued squares! i like it A LOT! :) ~karen

Bev said...

It is AMAZING! I also LOVE your 2.5" square collection! I make dog collars from time to time so have a 2.5" strip collection that I always have leftovers from. Great idea! Thanks for sharing. I love your quilt!

Cheery wave from Bev

http://44thstreetfabric.blogspot.com

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I love how it turned out. I'm late coming here and leaving a comment though - I haven't been keeping up with all the blogs lately. I have seen several others making this quilt and I might do this one too sometime.
Karen

Carla said...

What a fun quilt....I especially like the corner posts. Congrats on a great finished top!