This afternoon I’ve been putting together my variation of the Shoo-Fly block that I started working on for Sew, Mama, Sew Block-Along Week 2.
I originally started out making regular Shoo-Fly blocks, but when I began putting them together they seemed kind of dull.**
While thinking about what to do to add a little spark, I remembered the neat trick done with the nine-patch block to make it a “disappearing” nine-patch that was shown during week one of the Block-Along.
So I decided to try it with this block. First, I cut a block into quarters.
I showed on my blog here a couple of different configurations of how the block might be put together. The one I liked best, and that fit together to make the nicest pattern overall was the one where I simply rotated opposite quarters.
Here’s the completed top. It’s 42″ x 51″. I’ve named it “Shoo-Fly Away”. I’m not sure why, except that it’s a variant of Shoo-Fly, and because the whole time I’ve been working on it the hymn, “I’ll Fly Away” has been going through my head. I don’t particularly subscribe to the theology of that hymn, but it’s great fun to sing.
I’ll have to think a bit on how to quilt it. This would be a good size for me to practice machine quilting, although my inclination is to hand quilt it. I have my eye on some yellow with a little blue print fabric at the quilt shop for the backing and binding.
Not sure what I’ll do with this quilt since it doesn’t go with anything in my house, but it’s been fun playing around with some traditional blocks. And it’s been nice to use some of that Liberty of London fabric that’s been in my stash for almost twenty years (the prints).
**Unfortunately the light is not very good here today, so even with all the lights turned on I wasn’t able to get very good pictures. If I can get a better one tomorrow, I’ll post it. **
I was jsut reading this post when you sent your comment! Yes, it’s amazing how some paint can fix yucky brown. The chopped up Shoo-Fly block is very cool. Great idea!
I was just reading this post when you sent your comment! Yes, it’s amazing how some paint can fix yucky brown. The chopped up Shoo-Fly block is very cool. Great idea!
I’m absolutely in love with this quilt, this idea, and have to make one. I linked this post in my quilting blog today.
I was thinking the other day about what other blocks would work like the nine patch for the cutting trick. You found another good one. Thanks for sharing.
I love how you did that! Your quilt is just beautiful, thanks for sharing.
HUGZ:)
Candi
WHAT A GREAT IDEA WILL SURE GIVE IT A TRYTHANKS FOR SHARING
Very clever idea with a cute result. Isn’t sewing fun? Thanks for sharing your creativity. 🙂
Terry in Colorado