framing begins ...

Squaring the Maple Leaf block was a real challenge. Probably has a lot to do with the fact that a bed sheet was used. The sheet was probably "used" and was rather "flimsy" which required the purchase of "quality" white cotton to back each block. Each block, which should have been 17" inches, squared at 16.5". In comparison hand appliqueing 80 Maple Leaves was a piece-o-cake!


There are now ten completed framed Maple Leaf blocks. I'm halfway there! It's a slow going process ... If I want to do the hand quilting I want each block to be pretty secure/stable.


My "staging" area is a drying rack ... pretty handy for keeping everything organized. Front rod is holding five blocks for first column ... back two rods are holding blocks for third and fourth columns. Lower rod is holding 16.5" white blocks and fabric strips for block frame. (Note post-it notes are a life saver for quick and easy labeling of blocks, rows, and columns)

I've adapted the pattern/instructions quite a bit. Finished quilt should fit a Queen bed nicely ... while still working on a double.