I kept the purple. It actually was a good moment for me because I realized it really gets to the heart of my issues with the MQG right now (ridiculous judging forms from Quiltcon, the new limited definition of what constitutes Modern Quilting, among other issues). As Kelly so perfectly put it–I can learn to love the binding. The 6 hours I’d lose in ripping it out, making new binding, and sewing the new binding on could be used to make something else entirely! This is a hobby for me. It’s about making stuff–not perfection or making something to an external standard (or even an internal one). There are many opportunities for choice along the way with quilting and I sometimes find myself almost crippled by the need to make the BEST choice. Picking the BEST pattern for that fabric line, the best layout of blocks, the best backing, binding, etc. Sometimes we just need to make a choice and go with it. I still think that a very dark navy would have been the better choice, but it doesn’t mean I can’t be okay with the purple. 🙂
Since my quilt holder is not-so-enthusiastic about that job I opted to shoot this one on our bed. It shrunk a lot in the wash–I love the crumple, but was disappointed because when it was first done it looked great on a queen sized bed–now it’s a little too narrow to drape well. It’s been done for a couple of weeks and has already seen a lot of use at photoshoots!
For the back I used a Kona midnight with a panel made from the leftovers generated during the scrappy trip block process.
Jane S. - Beeeyoutiful! Keeping the purple was a good decision. 🙂
Laurie - This quilt is gorgeous. I love it!
I could be wrong but did the MQG actually expand their definition of modern quilting recently? I thought it was a move timed for their announcement to start charging MQG chapters for their “services.” (not thrilled with them either here!)
kelly - Traci! It is BEAUTIFUL! 🙂
LOVE LOVE LOVE it.
So proud that you decided to stick with your original binding. Can’t wait to see what you’ll sew up with that 6 hours you saved!
Melissa - I do love that quilt! It is just so colorful. I’m not surprised it’s seen some photoshoot time. 🙂
Laurie is right…they actually HAVE expanded the definition. Which seems like it happened after I asked them why they had written a more limited definition…hmmm…very strange coincidence, perhaps?? 🙂
But I really think your perspective on making a decision and going with it is one that needs to be shouted from the rooftops! Too many people are making their quilts to meet someone else’s expectations, to garner praise and validation from someone “famous”. That’s not why we got into this! Thanks for the reminder. 🙂
barb - BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!
Sew Create It - Jane - Congratulations on a wonderful finish!!!
Heather - You have to admit, even if you have doubts about the purple binding on the front, it’s FANTASTIC as a binding on the back! LOVE IT!!
Sherry - I agree with Heather. I loved the front when you first posted it (still do) BUT that back is just gorgeous!
Batty van Os - I’m so glad Erik did NOT win!
Did you use far quarters or a (or more?)jelly roll?