Some designs are organic and simple. I had drawn a quick sketch of this quilt and, as I was creating it, the dimensions and overall layout changed slightly from my original vision. It just worked, allowing myself to adapt the pieces and play with the blocks. 


The half dresdens work perfectly to create rising and setting suns, the bold mix of colours and solids/prints adds interest and I used both curved and pointed segments to suggest beams of light. The colours bring to mind the artist Clarice Cliff, her designs and use of colour are hugely inspirational.

I used the Creative Grids 18° Dresden Plate Ruler and cut segments from 8" strips. After making one of the pointed segments, I measured the length (where it would be pieced to the next segment) and used that measurement to trim the curved segments. You can watch the demo below if that's more helpful!


Once the dresdens were pieced I used Aurifil 50wt thread and a decorative stitch on my machine to appliquΓ© them to the background. On my Elna machine this is mode 1, #81, width: 6 and length: 0.3 (note to self!). For the semi circles I used a very small zig zag stitch.
I love how the triangle stitch works with the 'beams' and I think it adds to the 30's vibe. Using the stitch without any stabiliser makes the fabric pull slightly and creates a nice bit of texture.


The details in the Alison Glass fabrics are so pretty and even today I was looking at one and found subtle pictures of seahorses and boats! I used the prints to create the colourful scrappy binding. It frames the quilt beautifully.


The sun even decided to show up in this last picture! Working with bright colours is a lovely way to brighten up the recent dark, wintery days.


Click to watch my Sewing Quarter demo of how to make the sun dresden blocks:




Thank you all for your birthday wishes last week. I had such a lovely day with my family and then had an evening out with my wonderful husband. Should you ever visit Manchester we definitely recommend Rudy's for yummy pizza, and believe me it's worth the wait!!