The threaded needle gathers a row of running stitches that hold together two pieces of fabric. I stop and look more closely. The sharp needle point has pierced the fibres of the cotton cloth over and over as it makes its way along the sewing line. A simple, yet effective tool.
I ease the thread through the fabric, creating a row of small stitches. A backstitch, and then more running stitches to take me to the end of the marked line. A securing backstitch and then I snip the thread and open out the seam. Another segment sewn.
Hand piecing soothes me. It reduces quilt making to its simplest form and its repetitive nature is meditative. The act of hand stitching is what’s important to me and, if it results in a finished quilt, then that’s a bonus.
This is my Starmania quilt top so far (only 11 more rounds to go!). It is designed by Brigitte Giblin and she has kindly made a free pattern to share through a Facebook group. The pieces are large so the top comes together quickly. I’m loving it!
That looks very intricate
They are big pieces Sandy and come together easily by hand. I’m enjoying the process.