I'm having a bit of a quilter's "existential crisis" over here in regards to my Alison Glass mini quilt swap!
I've always loved browsing quilt swap hashtags on Instagram because I love seeing the thought and creativity that go into each and every quilt. But it seems those hours of browsing have backfired because I am drawing a complete blank when it comes to ideas for this upcoming mini swap and I'm starting to feel the pressure. The quilts aren't due to be shipped until the first week of June, but I know that will sneak up on me if I'm not careful. I thought I had an idea of a pattern that I wanted to use, but I immediately started second-guessing it and didn't think it was complicated enough or special enough. I know I'm not supposed to try to be something or someone that I'm not, but it's hard not to because I want to make something truly special. Drafting original patterns has never been my strong point, and maybe it never will be, but I would love to be able to interpret my partner's inspiration and suggestions into something that she will like.
Do any of you have trouble homing in on a design? How do you translate inspiration (from pictures, other quilts, nature, etc.) into an actual quilt design? How do you find a good balance between your taste and your partner's tastes? Have you ever participated in a swap and wish you would have done something differently?
I would LOVE to have some input! :)
Stop looking and second-guessing and go with your first plan, really! It will be way more fun for you to make and it will show through. It is hard not to put pressure on yourself, I get that but just go with your gut! Can't wait to see:)
ReplyDeleteI think the best swap quilts happen when there's a little of both of you in it. I get in a funk when the swap questionnaire is so completely answered that it feels like a commissioned quilt. Make something you would love with your partner's taste in mind.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the advice! I think the act of writing about it actually helped clear my head a little bit too. :) I'm also going on a shop hop with a friend this weekend, so maybe that will kickstart my sewing "mojo" and get everything back on track.
ReplyDeleteI would go with at least your partners color preference and then check to see if she has liked any of the other photos you could also draw what you are thinking of making and post a picture before you start sewing but the most important thing is to enjoy the process.
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