Creating leaf blocks is one of the best first subjects to tackle when learning Ruth McDowell’s design methods and fabric choices. And we had a great time doing just that at my recent ” Design Basics: Leaf” class at Fiddlesticks Quilt Shop in Vancouver, WA. I started with two sample leaf designs from Ruth McDowell’s Design Workshop book to illustrate the ways in which the placement of seam lines and the choice of fabrics affects the overall look of a block design. I love both these these Maple leaves. The leaf on the left would look great as smaller blocks scattered here and there in a quilt. The left on the right captures more of the detail (and thus has more pieces) that one sees in a real Maple leaf.
Staring with their own leaves (Fall being the “perfect” time to collect!), each student in class created her own block design. Penny’s enlargement of her Maple leaf does a beautiful job of showcasing her fabric choices (Penny has an awesome collection of fabrics!!).
Cindy’s Oak leaf is richly textured by the rich reds, golds and browns in her fabric. The fabric braid was left over from another project yet creates the perfect border here. And Fiddlesticks to the rescue with all the wonderful fabrics Cheran has on hand! The beautiful light gray/white pattern sets off this leaf beautifully.
Stay tuned for more design classes (including the 5-day Designing from Nature class) after the first of the year.
And of course, more chickens……….many more chickens!!!!
