This quilt came about because of peer pressure. Judy can talk me into almost anything! A few years ago, she called and told me that she had found the perfect quilt to make, and that I needed to buy a book by Vicki
Garnas, a quilt designer. Portions of this quilt were on the cover, and it was enough to hook me - Oh, yes, Ann bit, too. Many books languish on the shelf until the right time comes along to get into production. This has been such a cold, lingering winter, that it was time!
However, there is a moral to this quilt - I did the binding during the Olympics - not good! I'll have to take it off and start again. Also, I used muslin for the borders to paint on, and find that it frays terribly - so, the quilt will be a little smaller when I re-finish the edges. Otherwise, I had a lot of fun making this quilt. I still have to find some kind of glue to stick down the part of the buttons that wants to move when hung upside down. (The wreath, the clock in the school on the bottom, etc.) And, you can click on the pictures to enlarge them.
A few months later.... I've redone the binding, as per Ann, took all the shanks off the wonderful buttons and glued them in place, touched up a few more places, added a few more button embellishments and a few crystals for snow. This quilt is based on the pattern "Town Squared" from the book "Fast-and Fun Stenciled Quilts", copyright 1999 by Vicki Garnas. Permission granted by Martingale and Company.
These miniature pumpkins were impossible to resist attempting to grow. (See the blossom above). The interesting thing is that they are growing on two upright plants, but there is also one sprawling vining plant that is forming these little fruits also. I don't suppose there is a pumpkin pie in one of these tiny marvels, but they will make great table decorations. Good thing there is other food in the garden!
This is the pole bean tower. The teepee of willow branches is completely covered, and the beans are really producing! Ah, success on one front.
Ron's hanging tomatoes are putting forth a few tomatoes, but we've been plagued with a wilt that has been difficult to overcome. Nevertheless, we've eaten a few tomatoes, and there will be more.
But, this is the triumph! We planted three plants, and they've taken over one whole section of the garden. Ron counts them every morning - the count is up to 13 - and there could be more well hidden. Some are beginning to thump beautifully - Almost ready! The little neighborhood kids haunt Ron because they are so fascinated with such a thing, and he's promised them a share in the harvest. (There are only 6 children.)
