Project Improv

I joined Project Improv at the last minute...last week! I committed to making at least 1 wonky log cabin block for charity & the deadline is April 1st. I really busted my tail to get these done...and it was my first time to top it off! I ended up making 2 for charity & 1 for me. Here is what I learned while making these fun blocks...

1. I need to use THICKER strips as I work to the outside...they were getting sooooo small!
2. It really sucks to over trim...measure twice & cut once...correctly!!!!
3. Minky is not easy to quilt with!
4. I prefer to press the seams open vs. to one side...it just lays so much flatter & nicer!
5. If you sew over pins, you'll hit them eventually (or often if you're me)!
6. I REALLY liked using Mary Ellen's Best Press (clear startch alternative)...makes the fabric nice & crisp & easy to work with.
7. If you iron your raised dots brown minky fabric, you will no longer have raised dots!!!!
8. I get really attached to my work..
9. I really love sewing.
10. I can't wait to do more sewing for charity.

Next time, I think I'll use lots more variety in the thickness of the strips. The minky was harder to work with, but I just LOVE texture and it seemed to work well with my blocks. I think I'll use more courdoroy too...it was very cooperative for me & added that texture that I love.

Block #1

The white is minky, the brown strips on the outside are minky w/raised dots, the brown strips inside are corduroy. I had to add the Michael Miller Hawaiian girl print in each one since I am part Hawaiian! =)

Block #2

Block #3 - This is the one I kept...it's also the one I over trimmed!

P.S. I literally kissed the blocks before I sent them off in the mail...it was hard to let them go but I know they will be put to good use! Find out more about Project Improv here: http://tallgrassprairiestudio.blogspot.com/2009/01/project-improv-wont-you-join-me.html