Back in January 2016 this gorgeous parcel arrived in the post from Patchwork Chicks - it was the fabrics for the beautiful star borders for Bluebird Lane. This quilt was designed by Natalie Bird of The Birdhouse Patchwork Designs, and block one had originally arrived in the post back in March 2015. I had been busy working on this quilt a few months ago. I'd finished the 9 applique blocks and pieced them together, then other things got in the way and this project was packed away. Finally it was time to get started on it again, and I had a busy afternoon cutting strips of fabric ready for these 42 star blocks that make up the borders...
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...my favourite thread for machine piecing is Aurifil 50wt thread, and I used a mid-grey coloured thread for this project. To get accurate, precision piecing, it's all about having the correct tools for the job. I use a straight stitch needle plate, a fine thread, and a Schmetz Microtex size 60 needle. I had a very productive evening at the Busybee Stitching sewing group, and managed to get all of the flying geese units pieced together (all 168 of them!!). These fabrics really are lovely, and this project has been a joy to sew. I've been using Karen Kay Buckley Perfect Pins for this project, and they certainly are perfect for keeping these blocks together so the star points are kept clean and sharp. These star blocks will make a spectacular border...
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...due to having a heavy cold that lingered for a bit too long it seemed to take ages to get all 42 star blocks completed. Having a "brain fog" didn't help and rather a lot of unpicking was involved! Anyway, finally the blocks were turned into the borders, and here's a sneak peek. I'll get a better picture of the completed quilt top in daylight, weather permitting!
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