In my last post you were all aware of my commiserations over a bad day in the sewing room.  However, I always leave a receptive spot in my brain to make a bad situation good, and in most cases–better.  I am happy to report that I found a much better fabric for that last border–so much better.  The color and pattern really clicked, which is what the quilting gods were trying to tell me although I stubbornly refused to listen.  This happens much too frequently and I promise to repent and change my ways.  Hmmm, even as I wrote that I realized that was a stretch.  Revision:  I will try anyway.

The border quilting pattern had to be adjusted, and in doing so, I am much happier with it.  MUCH HAPPIER!  Screwing up in the first place made me slow down and work at it a bit more instead of rushing it, which resulted in a design that is so much better than the original version.  What is it I am always preaching to everyone else?  Oh yes, S-L-O-W D-O-W-N.  Seems as though I should listen to my own advice.  <rolling eyes>

I wish I could tell you that I am brilliant and I go along and come up with these improvements by the sheer genius of my intellect, but I would have to hand out shovels and boots for everyone as I am telling you this.  I have only improved by making mistakes.  Only by screwing up, and doing so oh so brilliantly, do I ever find those new solutions to old methods and problems and improve upon what I have learned to date.  Expecting perfection without so much as a minor trip up, cheats me of experiencing those wonderful “aha” moments that are so motivating and excite me to try more and improve my skills.

Never be satisfied with “good enough” and make excuses for “as is” or making quilts will become rote and boring (dare I mention it fools no one but ourselves even with the best verbal gloss over?).  You will have cheated yourself of the most exciting part of the process–discovery.  Oh and you will also cheat yourself out of those bottles of wine, or other drink of your choice, to soothe your frustration too.  For me, that is a huge side benefit.  I admit, it is worth screwing up just to uncork a bottle. 

Now go make your mistakes and discover how much better you get with your quilting as a result!

all content ©2009 Sandra Leichner