Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Scrappy Sprouts for Chelsa - Festival Quilt

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My Blogger's Festival Quilt is the most special quilt I think I have ever made.
And absolutely a favorite.
It was made with the help of so many of you... so thank you. ♥ Here is the story of my Scrappy Sprouts Quilt, and a transcription of the letter that was mailed with it:

Scrappy Sprouts

To my dear friend:

When I first read your story, my chest and stomach just clenched.  I was sick with anxiety; trying to pray, but angry and scared.  You had just come through so much; how could this be added to it?  I really was angry.  I especially prayed for you while I was in the shower... I wanted to do something to help.  I couldn't really send you money, at least not much.  I couldn't come visit.  I knew though I could make you a quilt.
  One day, while I was praying for you in the shower, this idea came to mind.
  This quilt is my, "God... when I think of Chelsa and what she faced and is facing, I don't know what to say."  This quilt is my prayer for you Chelsa... it says what I can't always.
  These little sprouts are my favorite time in a garden -- they're so cute and new and growing... so much potential in those two little leaves.
  They show my prayer for new life.
  I did not like the helplessness I felt when I thought about those icky words like "incurable."  So I gathered women to my cause, and they joined in sending love and wishes for healing, and in literally covering you.  I got blocks from women in three or four different countries.  They put tiny bits of precious little fabrics in these blocks -- pieces that are hard to find and out of print and hoarded like gold by quilters.  They join my prayer.
  I wanted to make sure the quilt was big enough you could share it with your love.  We don't forget about you on this difficult road Matt.
  And it's a rainbow -- the symbol of God's promise.  And again -- my prayer for you. ♥

Scrappy Sprouts

_______________________________

Specs for my quilty friends:

  • Fits well in the Group or ROYGBIV categories for Bloggers' Quilt Festival
  • a mini tutorial for folks who might want to make their own block is here.
  • The sashing is the yarn-dyed Essex in flax by Robert Kaufman.

The setting was part by design, and part by necessity.  There were a few variations in the idea of a "scant" quarter-inch (happens when gathering blocks from 40 or so different people), but I think it made for a more dynamic quilt than if the rows had all been straight.  I love the off-set.  I was also quite pleased with a mostly even distribution of color, because I simply told people to make their favorite.

The quilting was done by Lindsay at EileenQuilts.com.  The design is called Xanadu, and looks so organic and swirly.  I love it.

Scrappy Sprouts quilting

The backing is the Summer Totem from Anna Maria Horner (and I think Steiger likes the back more than the front; he kept telling me, "the back is really nice Mommy.") 

Scrappy Sprouts backing

For binding, I chose an Alexander Henry stripe cut on the bias.

Scrappy Sprouts binding

And of course, a special label.

Scrappy Sprouts label



A huge thank you to those who made and sent blocks.  They are so special, and the quilt was all I was hoping it would be.  

P.S. I'm extending the 20% off on patterns until I get back.  Use code "springmarket"

Scrappy Sprouts finished

30 comments:

Charlotte said...

it's so beautiful, and such a lovely idea.

Steffi´s Candy Quilts said...

This quilt is such a beauty, and it feels so good to be a part of it.
I'm sure Chelsea will love it and I wish her all the best for her future.
<3 <3 <3

Cindy said...

This quilt is so beautiful and so filled with love. What a blessing!

MaterialGirlQuilts said...

This quilt is amazing! God bless you for doing such a kind and thoughtful thing.
Amanda

Mama Spark said...

The quilt is amazing. Thanks for sharing your story. I hope Chelsea loves it too and will keep her and her family in my prayers!

Katie B said...

So gorgeous, Tracey. I know Chelsea will find much comfort in this beautiful quilt!

Kristie said...

So, so perfect, in every way!!

verykerryberry said...

Wonderful in every way

Katy Cameron said...

I do love this quilt and I hope you're having fun at market!

Kirsten said...

Such a beautiful quilt and the story behind it is even more lovely!

Marie said...

Quilts are the perfect way to wrap someone in love and comfort and you and your friends across the world have done a beautiful job of this one. Chelsea can't help but feel the love.

em's scrapbag said...

Beautiful. Love the scrappy feel of it.

felicity said...

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. :)

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing your prayers and idea for your friend. My own experiences, and those of friends, have emboldened me to quilt for them, as well. I so appreciated the prayer you included.

CitricSugar said...

It's beautiful and I love its intent. The setting adds so much to it, too.

My prayers for your friend!

Janet said...

It's a very beautiful and special quilt. Thank you for sharing it with us.

Rachaeldaisy said...

Such a beautiful and special quilt!!

lesleyworth said...

a stunning and gorgeous quilt with such an amazing message.

Beausoleil Quilts said...

Your quilt is beautiful, and a great collaberation. I am sure the quilt has given Chelsa a lot joy and comfort.

Carla said...

Such a beautiful display of caring. I love this quilt

www.randomthoughtsdoordi.com said...

what a beautiful story and a lovely quilt for your friend. I pray she will feel the love and be comforted by your quilt.

vexa said...

It is lovely.

Renee said...

Beautiful quilt! I love the colors and design.

Skooks said...

I am so in love with Summer Totem. Excellent choice for the backing. What a beautiful work of love.

Seams Sew Together said...

I'm sure this quilt will put a smile on Chelsea's face, very pretty

Eileen said...

Fantastic! So bright and lovely. Thanks for sharing and have a great day

DeborahGun said...

beautiful :-)

Nancy said...

This is beautiful and such a wonderful, kind idea for an individual needing prayers and thoughts.

sonia said...

Such a beautiful quilt and story! Congratulations on an amazing quilt, and a winner!!!

Mary on Lake Pulaski said...

Gorgeous quilt and story; also a winner!

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