Destination: Quilt Along – Block 11

Sherry Shish from Powered by Quilting is our designer this week, and it is a fun block for sure. Now, before we get to the block, can I just tell you that I am shocked that we are at Block 11! This QAL is almost done, at least one of the stages of being done – when all the blocks are known. I feel there are at least 4 stages of done in a quilt – blocks done, quilt assembled, quilting done and binding done. Sherry’s block is a terrific scene of Hot Air Balloons which I enjoyed thinking of traversing high above (not too high) a beautiful landscape.

You can find Sherry’s pattern HERE.

Here are a few suggestions

1. Using a directional fabric:
I loved the mountains and wanted a fabric that was a bit more interesting, and picked this. I drew directional lines on my paper pattern so I would get it going the right way.

2. Contrasting fabrics:
Make sure you have the right contrast between the fabrics you choose for the balloons and the sky. I rearranged my balloons to have the blue balloon off of the sky.

3. Making the “string” between the balloon and basket.
I used a triple stitch to do the stitching on the machine.

4.  Appliquéing the fabric.
Here’s a way to go around the balloons and not stop. I used a monofilament polyester thread and a narrow but close zig zag. I like sewing in a continuous line and figure that reinforcing the stitching, especially where there are double layers on the top and bottom is a good thing. I stayed on the lines but it is hard to show when “writing” on the photo.

Jennifer @ The Inquiring Quilter
Karen @ Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats
Laura @ Slice of PI Quilts

Calendar

Segment 3 is quickly coming to a close. One more week until the last block is revealed. Remember, there are two opportunities for prizes: 1) Segment 3 and 2) the Grand Prize.

The prize for Segment 3 will be awarded on October 19th. Anyone who has completed all 4 blocks, substantially like the designers’ pattern, is eligible to win. You must post your picture on our linky page, our Facebook group, or Instagram with #DestinationQAL.

The Grand Prize will be awarded on November 16th. Anyone who has completed all 12 blocks, substantially like the designers’ pattern, is eligible to win. You must post your picture on our linky page, our Facebook group, or Instagram with #DestinationQAL of all 12 blocks finished! It does not have to be in a quilt, but the blocks must be done.

Island Batik Fabric
Make Modern
On-Line Quilt Magazine
Quilter’s Dream Batting 

Good luck to all who are sewing this week. If you need anything, feel free to email the designers or ask questions in the Facebook group!

Coming Up on the Blog:

Block 12 – Destination QAL – 10/5
A 3 Yard Quilt
A Finished Purse
Tips and Tutorials on the 22nd – 10/22

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