Quilts to Inspire

Circles of Life: Hibiscus Christmas by Heidi Lund

Earlier this year, I shared a link to a collection of fabric inspired cakes. Then, in July, my mom and I went to the Longbeach International Quilt Show, and I started seeing quilts as similar inspiration for cakes. This it not to say that I am making these into cakes. I'm just saying that one could make these into cakes. If one was so inspired, talented, and abounding in time.

There were billions of quilts in Longbeach. Maybe trillions. So these photos represent just a tiny, fractional percentage of what was displayed. If they don't inspire you to make a cake, maybe you'll see some detail you can incorporate into cupcakes, or your latest sewing project. Or finger painting. (if you do any of the above, or any other crafty thing, please share pics with us!) Maybe something you see here will inspire you in your gift giving this season.

I have to apologize profusely here. again. (it seems to happen a lot). I wasn't thinking ahead enough and didn't manage to get the artist information for most of these quilts, but the ones I know are getting credit. If you know something I don't, please let me know!

This peacock quilt was incredibly impressive. You can't see it unless you blow the photo up, but this quilt has lots of 3D detail, embroidery, and fancy sewing techniques. Additionally, I have alink here for you that will connect you to a collection of peacock cakes. Yes, really. And they're quite nice.

Grid Growth by Margie Davidson

This year I saw several quilts that used sun sensitive fabric (which now comes in colors other than blue!) for nice effect. This particular quilt feels very woodsy to me.

And last, but not least, is this giant that looks like stained glass to me. Definitely one of my favorites from the show.

What inspires you? Do you seek it out or just wait for it to find you?

Etsy Love - picnic quilts

To celebrate the beautiful weekend it is AND that it's Memorial Day weekend, I found some quilts on Etsy that are perfect for picnics on the beach, at the park, or in your own backyard. There are certainly fancier quilts out there to buy, but I wouldn't want most of them in the mud. But on my bed? Only if mom makes me one!

I like each of these quilts (links at the bottom) for different reasons. I love the happy rainbow colors of this top one. Casual, comfortable, and summery.

This blue quilt is waterproof! What a great idea to use ski-wear fabrics. Smart. Very smart.

Now, this third quilt has a sense of humor I can't ignore. PLUS it's made out of old jeans AND there are even pockets. How fun!

I hope you're having a fun weekend! I went to the farmers' market this afternoon, which always brightens my day. What are you up to?

Bohemian Rainbow Blanket

Blue shades outdoor quilt (waterproof)

Handcrafted (ant) picnic blanket - quilt