by Sandra | August 26th, 2010
Now that the Goldfinch pattern is complete, I need to get bustin’ on the Asilomar project for….2011! Yes, I have to start this early. In fact, I should have started earlier! It will be done and ready for everyone I promise.
I thought those of you who signed up would like an update if you are contemplating your own fabrics. I am buying extra of any fabrics I am auditioning so I will have enough (hopefully) for fabric kits to be available those of you who have requested them.
I am waiting patiently impatiently for a prospective background fabric I have ordered. I was going to go check that situation out this morning come to think of it.
I eliminated the flying bird in the upper left from the preliminary sketch due to a scale and composition issue. The pattern would have to be prohibitively large for it to balance and I had visions of students with these over-sized patterns taking up all available space and that of their neighbors. I have “personal space” issues and I am sure there are others out there too. 
I will add a butterfly in place of the flying bird which will also add more color and interest to the composition and give an example for more realistic butterflies instead of those gnarly appliqued ones.
The bird is going to be beautiful. I chose the Gnatcatcher because of its coloring and cuteness. Yes, this bird does have a big white circle around its eye giving it a whimsical appearance.
For those of you who look at this and panic…DON’T! I will walk you through it and you will think, “why was I so afraid?”. Then you will go home and impress all of your friends and family. riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight?
I have been asked to come back and teach at Asilomar for 2012 and I have agreed. Oh dear, I better start brainstorming on that project so returning students and new students can have a choice. We don’t want anyone getting bored now do we?
Exquisite.
Will these kits be available only for students that take the class or can we who can’t come buy a kit also….nothing like wanting it all..right! Someday I am going to be able to take a class from you..that is my dream…
I’m speechless the pattern is so beautiful! I can’t wait – only 9 more months to go…no presssure.
Best stitches!
Mercy in Miami
I just looked at the pattern again…are those ladybugs? Or bees? I can’t tell but either way I love it. The ladybug on your last block is the cutest thing I have ever seen. And, yes IMHO I agree the embroidery instead of just applique (or God forbid flat, ugly, construction paper-like ultra suede) raises everything to a wonderful new level.
Still drooling…best stitches,
Mercy in Miami
Yikes, my jaw is on the floor. What exceptional work you do. I can hardly wait until May.
Beautiful! I wish I could take a class from you, and I would love a kit too.
Still intimidated AND excited!
(Is that the grayish Gnatcatcher or the brownish Kinglet?)
Are you looking at one of the stonehenge fabs for the background?
Oh to have the pattern! Hopefully I’ll get to one of your classes in the future. Such nice work!
Michele,
The gray-blue Gnatcatcher with the black cap. It has just a touch of golden red feathers under the wing which is going to be FABULOUS in contrast to the urn of flowers.
Don’t be intimidated, we will have FIVE days at Asilomar which is a dream span of time to teach in with this type of applique. No trying to “get it” within a rushed six hours. Not only that, we get fed!
I was looking for a blue Stonehendge fabric (very pale) for the background, but I found another fabric that is AWESOME AND PERFECT! I am really excited. IT was totally accidental too.
Now I have to go to a quilt shop and have them order a bolt-plus so there is enough for the class. 15 continuous yards!!!
Kathleen,
As soon as the workshop is complete, the pattern will be available.
Thanks Denise!
I am unable to order fabrics wholesale at this time, so we will have to see about kits. So many fabrics would be prohibitively expensive.
I have my gray cells working overtime (do you hear the wheels squeaking?) for a solution that will work.
Mercy,
Your approval is everything.
Pati,
Thanks for the high esteem. As I responded to Denise, I will se what can be done as far as kits go.
Why thank you Gini!
My heart just skipped a beat or two when I saw the completed drawing!!!! It is just exquisite!!!! The Seattle girls cannot wait for your class and each of us will so appreciate a kit! How awesome that you are going back to Empty Spools in 2012!!! I am planning for that too!!!! I so love your details.