Scrappy Therapy

34 comments
It has been a week since I've posted, but that doesn't mean I haven't been sewing.  When life gets stressful and complex, it is a treat to stake out my sewing room to watch a movie, cut and sew, and block out worries and concerns.
I've always had a passion for patchwork squares.  There is something so simple and perfect about fabric squares sewn together.  Instead of working on existing projects and my latest pattern, I put everything aside and went back to my roots of squares and scraps.  It has been just what I needed.  It is like putting my brain on auto pilot.
Most of you are aware of the wave hitting blogs and quilt sewers everywhere.  Bonnie at Quiltville has put together a tutorial that has gone viral.  I've been really impressed and inspired by everyone making this project. #scrappytripalong
I've made piles and piles of scrappy 12" blocks - 64 to be exact.  I want to make a queen size quilt for our guest bedroom.  I realize I have lots of quilts that are from patterns I've created but not enough quilts to just put on the beds and use.  Isn't that silly?  I've always loved the trips around the world pattern and I've been wanting to make another one.  Perfect timing.
This quilt will go with everything and anything.  Scraps are to be used and enjoyed on a bed.  Just stitching the fabrics together reminded me of other projects and times when and where I've picked up some of the fabrics.  Good times.
Now the work begins putting the squares together.  I will have 8 blocks across and 8 down.  I am going to lay them out on the floor in my living room and see how they come together.  But since scrappy goes with scrappy, I won't get too wrapped up in block placement.
Life goes from one challenge to the next.  This too shall pass.  But this quilt will last for years and years.

-nanette
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34 comments

Mary on Lake Pulaski said...

Really? Sixty-four blocks already! You are my inspiration Nanette! Can't wait to see your guest room quilt.

Unknown said...

Holy Smokes! You are a dynamo!! I love it and can't wait to see them all together!

calicodaisy said...

Even though I have plenty of orders to fill, I jumped on the 'round the world train, too! I'm glad you said you plan a queen size quilt, because that is the size I'd like to make as well. Will be following you to see how you add it up and put it together. I don't know what the final product should be. Border or no border? -- michele

beth said...

I can certainly identify with sewing for some peace of mind. When life gets stressful....SEW! THis one will be a treasure. ;)

Scrapatches said...

Beautiful scrappy blocks! Looking forward to seeing your big beautiful quilt ... may it cuddle you and comfort you through all of the times of your life ... :) Pat

Nedra said...

And with your scraps, it will be beautiful! I started it last year with some old fabrics, and now I'm wishing I could do a redo.
(So, what is going on my friend?)

Cheryl said...

Lots of piles of wonderfullness I say!!!! I am loving these blocks all over the blogs!! Think I need to join in.

Sherri said...

Hope all is okay...my thoughts and prayers are with you!

As for your blocks...I knew they would be amazing! LOVE them!!! I have just 8 of my 36 done...can't wait to see what a 64 block quilt will look like. And I agree...patchwork and squares...that's where it started for me, and it always feels like home when I'm making a quilt like this!

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

Absolutely true, Nanette, and is that chicken wire I spy in that last picture? I think what makes these blocks so successful is that everyone is using fabric they really love. That's the fun part for me, too - revisiting fabrics I've enjoyed in the past.

Karen H said...

Your blocks are looking great. I made one of these a little over 3 years ago. Maybe it's time to make another one.... :)

dream quilt create said...

You have such a great attitude are a strong example to me:)

jen duncan said...

I'd have sworn you just posted yesterday! :-P I love these blocks Nanette and have every intention of making one, too. Just not sure when!

Michele said...

Looking good! You are the speed queen!

Diana said...

Nanette, You have NO idea how timely this post is for me. Thank you for the reminder that challenges DO pass!! I know that message was heavensent!
diana in Illinois

trish said...

I am keeping you in my prayers today. I hope everything balances out nicely for you.
Your blocks look fabulous and will make an amazing quilt!! I had just enough scraps to make a 12 block quilt, so it will be perfect for a little someone.
Have a nice week. Trish xo

Shari said...

Be-still my heart - scrappy squares. First loves are often the best... thinking of you.

Thimbleanna said...

Oh Dear! I hope all is well Nanette! I'm so impressed that you could fit another quilt in -- your scraps look wonderful and I can't wait to see them all laid out!

Carrie P. said...

I have seen these blocks on lots of blogs. I have been wanting to participate but I am just working on UFOs but I just thought of something, I could sew my strips and use them as leaders and enders!

•stephanie• said...

sorry about your troubles/worries.
but so glad something wonderful is coming of it.
i have friends who are completely stressed out by sewing.
but, i'm with you!
a little fabric therapy is usually just what the doctor ordered to block out the blues.
at least for a little while.
{playing the piano works for me, too!}
wishing you a better day/peace of mind!
and your quilt is going to be amazing.
{i'm trying so hard to resist jumping on the the #scrappytripalong bandwagon. we shall see!}

circle r motel said...

Love it... I love everything you do, Nanette! I want to fit this in to my projects too! I have a small pile of squares ready to go, but do I have time! Glad you are back. Missed you!!

Darlene said...

I'm sending lots of healing thoughts to help you get through the challenges life is throwing your way. Wouldn't it be fun to spend a day together just chatting, laughing, eating, chatting and laughing lots more? I hope the idea puts a smile on your face. :-)

Love your scrappiness - have fun!

Dresden Quilter said...

I love your scrappy blocks. Hope things get better.

AnnieO said...

The simplest of shapes are easily made impressive in multiples--especially with all the color and pattern you're playing with! Enjoy your therapy :)

Sew Create It - Jane said...

I love the fabrics that you are using for your Scrappy Trip :o) Very cheery!!

Carolyn J. said...

love the line
"Life goes from one challenge to the next. This too shall pass. But this quilt will last for years and years."

Really works for my life right now....better head to the sewing room!

Happy stitching!

Gigi's Thimble said...

Your blocks look beautiful. I'm sure it's so cute. I feel like I'm a little late to be jumping on that bandwagon. Everyone is doing it. I love it but don't know if it's too late. I'm admiring them all from afar!

Miz Karen said...

I've gotten bit too. Put aside other project(s) to make. Just started mine. Only have 3 done so far, but plan on making more today.

PatSloan said...

ommmmm.... ommmmmm... I'm challenging you Nannette so I get a bunch of blocks made too... which means I'd have to START.. which is another story entirely

smooch!

Shelley said...

I too need bed quilts Nanette! I think I see a block in today's future...the bug has bitten lol!

Corrie said...

Looking good, you've got to be almost there...64.

pratima said...

Your scrappy square blocks are beautiful, Nanette.. With many memories tied into each square, this will be a special quilt when it is done. Sometimes mindless sewing can be very soothing to the soul. Hope you are doing well. Hugs..

Glenna @ Hollyhock Quilts said...

Can't wait to see them together! I'm still thinking feedsacks!!

Moose on the Porch Quilts said...

I love your closing comment! It perfectly express so much of what we do. Thank you! - And I can't wait to see this quilt put together!

Kelli Fannin Quilts said...

I love it Nanette! It reminds me of all the scrappy quilts I would see at my grandma's house growing up, that now are at my mom's house. Scrappy log cabins, string quilts, etc. I love this pattern. So far have resisted jumping on the Scrappy Trip train, but this is sooo tempting. Hope the stresses of life ease soon. xo