This is the original String of Pearls quilt from my book Irish Chain Quilts. As soon as I decided on making a Stadium Quilt I knew this would be the perfect pattern. It is mostly strip pieced so it also had the benefit of going together fast, and since I didn't start until December, that was a big plus ;) And of course, I was so super excited to do another Irish Chain Quilts remake ;)
I made a few adjustments this time around, which always keeps it fun ad new. Since it was going to be a Stadium Quilt, I didn't want all of that white background, so I flipped the darks and lights. I just love how bold it is!!! I also added the corner squares as I think that looks awesome on a bed but I wanted to keep the chain going this time. I also shrunk down the block size making the quilt 70" x 70" as I figured it would be hard to tote a queen size quilt to the game ;)
And I have to say, making the Appliqued BYU Logo is like a million times easier than my sweetheart's UofU or my SUU logos ;) Thank you BYU for that ;) I have a tutorial on how I make complex layered applique right here, just in case you are inspired to make your own stadium blanket now ;)
When it came time to quilt it, I was in for a special treat. My good friend Kim, and owner of my LQS Stitching it Up, gave me a demonstration of her Pro-Stitcher computer on her long-arm. It was so cool to watch the long-arm stitch away this cool BYU design!!! Isn't that so fun ;)
And on the backing, I found this super soft and snuggly BYU fleece from JoAnn's. It will make it so soft and warm to snuggle up in at the games ;) And I bound it with a solid Tan, perfectly accenting the logo and backing. So fun!!!
And as you might have guessed, our friends were very surprised (It was hard not to share sneak peaks and give it away) and absolutely loved it ;) I just love making special quilts for special people!!! And I so enjoyed making this quilt again ;) I know I have said it before, but I always feel so very wonderful and blessed when I can share my love of quilting with those I love around me and wrap them in quilty hugs :) It is just the best!!!!
How about you . . . did you make something special handmade for someone special this year for Christmas?? I would love for you to share it with me in the comments ;)
I hope you have a very Happy Quilting Day!!