Cutting out a quilt

Quilt blocks and strip cut and ready for next step.

Today I spent my time cutting.  One reason I like quilting is that there ARE so many steps to complete before you have a complete quilt in hand.  It is nice to be able to focus on a small task and know that once you get it done, you can shift directions and do something entirely different even though it is all for the same project.

I managed to cut all the mini strips out of the 13 different prints I purchased.  Cutting is fairly easy as long as you have the right tools and focus.  I like seeing the pieces take shape and how the print looks different once cut smaller.  There is one aspect of cutting that I hate doing- ironing.  It isn't necessary for every print but some can come very wrinkled when purchased.  Taking the time to iron such pieces makes for cleaner cuts and a better quality quilt.  I never throw anything away... well, very little at least.  If you are going to be a quilter, scraps from past quilts will come in very handy.  This year, I found a way to put even the salvage to use.  My son's teacher asked for fabric squares for the classroom.  So, now nearly nothing goes to waist.

 I am a teacher by trade and heart.  I feel the urge to teach a little.  So, this blog may turn into an outlet in more ways than one.  I would love feedback and questions.  I know I have a few followers out there.

This is the quilt that has inspired the one I am currently making.