Monday, October 25, 2010

Anatomy of a Swap


Some might wonder why I don't post more finished projects, so thought I might take you on a journey through the process of hosting a swap.  The swaps you'll see here are from the BlockBuddy Yahoo group.

First step is to select a swap. We have several running at the same time.  The most popular right now are the Chicklets, an invention of my imagination.   Chicklets are 4 1/2 inch four patches using white on white and a flavored gum color.  The flavor of the month was grape.
Lots and lots of grape chicklets!!
Just love all the colors!
Another favorite are the Country Nine-Patches.  Found this charming block here: Quilting.About.com .  Not only are they addictive to make, but thinking they are going to make a fabulous quilt.




Classic blue and white--can't wait to start assembling the top!


A quick and easy block is the Double Four Patch.  If you'd like to try this versatile block, directions are located here:  http://quilting.about.com/od/quiltblocklotto/ss/january07_lotto.htm .  Saw one in a recent quilt show--just love the classic blue and white set in a visually pleasing way.


 This cute little four patch is called a Stripey Four-Patch.  These darling blocks are done in white-on-white and 1930 reproduction fabrics.  If you only have fifteen minutes to sew, these blocks should be your first choice.  Am partial to them being set on-point, which creates a tessellating design.  My black and batik top is done, just waiting for the quilting.
 Sometimes we just swap components of blocks.  Been swapping half-square triangles for months and am growing a delightful collection for a future scrap quilt.

Dozens and dozens of half-square triangles!  Oh, the possibilities!

And, we swap 2 1/2 inch strips called "Zippy Strips."


Galaxy Star
Last, but not least, we have a block of the month.  The pattern for this month's star is located at www.EwesQuilting.com under the BOM section.
Once all the swaps are sent to me, I distribute them to their new homes where they live happily every after!
Waiting for the mail carrier to whisk away the squishies to their new home!
If one or more of these swaps appeal to you, please come and join us at BlockBuddies!  Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BlockBuddySwaps/ and sign-up.  You'll find lovely, talented ladies, fun activities and boatloads of swaps!!

1 comment:

Jennifer Helms said...

Loved looking at your pictures of the different swaps. I just joined BlockBuddies recently and was wondering if I could find the time to join in. I'm currently in a round robin that is taking a toll on my time. Also loved the biscuit basket - what makes it stiff to stand up? THanks!