Learning Something New

Embracing Creative Challenges 

This year, instead of making a New Year’s resolution, I made a ‘Creative Challenge List.’ I’m usually meticulous to a fault, which often stifles my creativity. My goal with this list was to break free from my usual constraints, try new things, and broaden my creative horizons.
Here’s a glimpse from my long list of challenges
  • No rules hand stitching
  • Minimal measuring, no ruler needed
  • Bold and bright color and pattern combinations
  • Embracing the process without a set outcome
  • Improvisational quilting
  • Letting go of judgment
  •  ... etc

So today I'm sharing three recent projects that checked off many boxes on my ‘challenge’ checklist: 

 

The Kawandi Style Quilting

I recently took an online workshop from Jen Strauser on Kawandi Style Quilting (more info at the bottom of page).  Technically easy but overcoming my fear of not measuring was definitely a challenge!  The experience was all about adopting a beginner’s mindset—staying curious, letting creativity take the lead, and enjoying the journey without worrying about the outcome. I was thrilled with how my mini quilt turned out!

rainbow coloured mini Kawandi style quilt project in progress

To keep the project manageable, I chose to make a small quilt. But I loved the process so much that my next one will definitely be larger!

 

The Wonky Star Quilt

This project was inspired by the cheerful Wonky Star Quilt made by Christina from Kindred Quilt Co. Check out her bright-coloured palette in all her quilts (@kindredquiltco) - I love them all. 

four star-quilt-block in bright shades of pink
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The block is big enough to make into a cushion cover or a chair pad ~ do you have any other ideas? 
.

 

The Patchwork Needle Book

I wanted to feature a beautiful vintage block print fabric scrap that I had and I liked the initial look and feel of the fabric combinations.  

However, the final project didn’t quite turn out the way I had envisioned - a bit too busy to my liking. Although I was a bit disappointed, I reminded myself that it’s just a needle book . Embracing the process and accepting the outcome is part of the challenge! I’m glad I saw it through to the end because it taught me what works and what doesn’t, helping me grow creatively! 

Below are the links to projects shown above.  Let me know if you've tried any of them - I would love to see! 

  • Kawandi Style Quilt 
If you’re interested in exploring Kawandi quilting or other creative projects, check out Jen Strauser’s site for her upcoming workshops. You can also learn more about the “Making Zen Online Retreat” on Kate Ward’s site. 
  • Wonky Star Quilt  

There’s a free block pattern PDF for the Wonky Star Quilt by Pear Tree Market 

  • Patchwork Needle Book 

Here’s my new video (here) and pattern (here)


      That's it for today! Happy Sewing! 

      Warmly,  

      Darae

       

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