"The Hand" Top Done- at last!

In August of 2012 I posted a blog about a project I'd started a long time ago.

I was inspired by a vintage quilt in the Utah state documentation book called simply, The Hand Quilt, made in the late 1800's. See that quilt and get the full story HERE

The block looks like a Bear's Paw but with an interesting adaptation.

Today, I am happy to report that I have finished the TOP....It feels so good after being in limbo for so long that I am trying not to think about that fact that it still needs to be quilted. It will have to get in line for that - at least one other large quilt is ahead of it.

Lighting a bit bright on this shot

Here it is draped over a queen sized bed - but not the bed it will be used on. This bed has a 16" deep mattress! I will try it on the right bed next month when I get home and may decide I want an additional border. The original just had the one border and I do like that but then again, fitting the bed is important.

I'll post it again when it's quilted and will look up my start date - some of these projects are really long term!

Doll Quilts Finished

#3 Triangles
15" x 19.5"

I've finished two more little quilts. They are the 3rd and 4th in my 'series' of doll quilts being made from a vintage 'Bricks' top (shown below). Both are hand quilted.

#4 Four Patch
16" x 17.5"

I use only vintage fabrics from this top in creating the doll sized tops. I use other vintage fabric from my collection for backing and binding when I have it. The claret binding on the triangles is vintage but I used a period shirting reproduction for the binding on the 4 Patch. (both thanks to the generosity of AZ pal, Lynn)

poor construction - not 'quiltable' as is

If you've been reading my blog you will be familiar with this project but since it gets to be a long time between posts here again are the first two in the Bricks Series:

#1 Tumbler

#2 Bricks
Homage to the original top!

I love to study old quilts and note the different ways things are done so I consciously use a variety of techniques in my doll quilts just for fun. 

ie: 

#1 is a charm quilt - each shape a different fabric - and is hand pieced.

#2 I brought the backing to the front to finish the edge, a finish seen on many old quilts but not common today. 

Numerous past blogs give more details on each quilt -You can use the Search box or drop down of each month to read those.

I'm planning Log Cabin and Rail Fence for #'s 5 and 6. 

Next: "Hand" quilt update