Ohio Rose ..part deux

Well, really part seven or eight! I love these old fashioned applique quilts, but there is a lot to quilt ! I can understand why, in the past , hand quilters crosshatched the entire quilt and called it done.

 There is outlining on the applique and designs on the applique and leaves. Florette's and roses on the swag, feathered wreaths ,cross hatch and background fill. Rose, green and pearl thread.  Wool batt. AND, I'm almost done.

As much work as this is, I have loved doing it.  It is a tribute to the top maker who persevered and got this done. I would find it hard to do the same applique block over and over. Yes, this top would have been ok with minimal quilting, but it is really special now. The quilt deserved it. If you listen to the quilt, it will tell you what it wants.

Ohio Rose

I have this just loaded on the frame. It is an old quilt and large, about 108 x 90. I love the color combination that was used in these quilts. It really evokes roses and leaves. Nowadays we have so many fabric options when piecing, batiks, hand dyed, designer etc. It is fun to see how beautiful a quilt can be created with simple colors and fabric.

This quilt seems to me like it should have 2 more rose blocks. Maybe not, or maybe the quilter used all  the fabric she had and called it done.  Whatever! It's mine now and I will honor this old top with some beautiful quilting!

I am using a beautiful Pearl Glide thread that blends in nicely with the muslin color background fabric. It has a hint of shimmer to show off the quilting. For the flowers, a luscious Pink Glide and haven't gotten to the leafy green , but have several to choose from.  When I get there I'll decide.

I have stabilized and started on the center blocks first, because I haven't a clue what to do around the swag border. These blocks are large and the space on either side of the swags is too. I have several options:

• Fill same as around the applique
• bead board lines
• separate design, flower or feather and some fill

What to do???

I'm hoping that I will get the center done and inspiration will strike!!

(Any ideas, please leave me a comment)

Well, better get moving..lots still to quilt!