Every other project had to be put on hold so I could start my doll quilt for Lori’s annual swap, which is something I look forward to every year. I copied the “Old Italian Block” pattern from an antique quilt sold on ebay last year, and I have since realized this is a pretty popular pattern, with lots of examples and instructions online for various methods of construction.
For my miniature version, I used the more old-fashioned technique of drawing my design on grid paper, making plastic templates, then tracing and cutting the pieces with scissors. Quilt making with templates doesn’t seem to be popular anymore, but I find that rotary cutting and strip piecing techniques just don’t work that well when you’re using small pieces from a scrap bag, which is how I usually make my quilts. On this little quilt, I had a lot of fun using my clear templates to fussy cut some of the pieces.
The top is 16″ x 19″ right now, and I’m thinking of just leaving it like this without a border. Now I just have to work out a design for the hand quilting. You’ll want to check out Lori’s blog when all the doll quilts are displayed — they are amazing!
Click image to enlarge.
I am not participating this time but will enjoy seeing what each person chooses to make. At first glance, your quilt blocks appear large in size but, of course, they aren’t. I don’t think I have seen a doll quilt made with this block design. Good choice.
I’m sorry you aren’t participating this year, Karen. Maybe it’s because you are working on so many beautiful quilts right now. It’s funny, because I really thought this was an unusual pattern, but when I googled the pattern to verify the name, I saw lots of quilts and tutorials.
Love it! I did a mini-quilt with this pattern a few years ago. I love the combination of prints you used! It’s wonderful 🙂 Hugs, Mickie
Thanks Mickie! I would love to see a photo of your mini-quilt in this pattern. Could you send me a photo or a link?
This is a beautiful little quilt! Interesting that you mentioned the plastic templates. I was thinking recently how I seemed to enjoy quilting more when we were cutting by hand, using templates, etc. I do enjoy the quickness of rotary cutting, but the process isn’t as pleasant. 😉
I agree, Penny, but I do use my rotary cutter quite a bit. It makes some tasks so much easier, like cutting borders and bias, and squaring up blocks.
Sensational! That is one of my favorite blocks and your fabric choices make this little quilt “sing”. I look forward to seeing who gets this little gem and I’ll keep my fingers crossed that it is me! It is simply beautiful.
Thank you, Wendy — The two quilts I received in the earlier swaps were wonderful, and I think the quilts are more impressive every year. Lori does such a great job organizing this event.
Love the way you fussy cut these pieces. Nice work!
Thanks, Helen — Normally I resist fussy cutting because it’s so wasteful, but when I’m making a mini quilt and using reproduction fabric, it’s a lot of fun.
Gorgeous!
This is another beautiful quilt, Martha! Your doll quilts the last two years inspired me to join in this year and I’m doing my little LeMoyne stars with templates too!
How can I join your current doll quilt swap?
The 2016 swap is over, Roberta, but Lori may do another one next year. Follow her blog to find out.