Vicky and the Zips

The Island Batik challenge for April is Crazy Quilts with Aurifil Threads.  

The Zippered Pouches - in progress

The challenge is to show off the thread from the Color Builder set in a Crazy Quilt! Try out different block combinations and layouts and experiment with decorative stitches and embroidery to highlight the tread you received.

I received the Frangipani Color Builder from Aurifil Threads.

To ensure that these threads/embroidery/stitches showed well on the fabric, I decided to use Island Batik solids.  Since I also wanted to make a modern interpretation of Crazy Quilts, the solids were a perfect choice.

I also tested various decorative stitches on a piece of scrap fabric. I kept a list of stitches that would look good, the ones to avoid and what modifications to make, if any.

I was at a loss for a name so I asked Mari, what should I name my Crazy Quilt. Mari suggested that I name the quilt, Victoria, because Crazy Quilts are from the Victorian era. Since my crazy quilt is a modern version, I have named her Vicky. Let's meet Vicky.

Vicky likes to play outdoors

Vicky likes to embellish

Although I started with the three threads in the Frangipani Color Builder set, I soon added in other threads in colors like Orange and Purple, all Aurifil, of course.

Binding with Zigzag Stitch

A black binding on a black background with a black thread is blinding. So I used a zigzag stitch to secure it in place. That way I don't have to strain my eyes to make sure that the needle hits the fabric in the 1/32" width.  This is a relief for my eyes and goes so much faster. 

Labelled - Vicky is mine

I used Island Batik Solid Light Gray for backing.  Used Hobbs Thermore batting. Quilted with my walking foot.  Can you see the zig-zag stitching on the label? I used 80/12 Schmetz Microtex Needle for both piecing and quilting.

Vicky is bright

Vicki is ready to party :-)

Vicky finished at 38" square and I am very happy with her but...

But there is more.  Meet the Zips.

Two Zippered Pouches

They are the Zips :-)

So what do you think of Vicky and the Zips? I think they rock. But I am dying to know your thoughts.

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The winners of the Celebrate etc. charm pack giveaway are #25 and #33. That is TerryK and MissPat. Emails have been sent. 

In RSC news, I have completed my Purple blocks for April. Here they are.

Reddish Purple

True Purple

Bluish Purple

I will be sharing with all my favorite linky parties (see full list on the sidebar), including Angela's RSC Linky.