Shakespeare in the Park

The gorgeous quilt pictured here is by Denise Oldham of Apopka, Florida. It was entered in Indianapolis Quilt Guild's quilt show on October 23 & 24 and we can't wait to hear how she did!!

I know that hundreds of us have looked at this quilt many times with love in our hearts and fear in our brains ... it is so beautiful yet so intimidating! That's why a group has gotten together with me as the coach to put this quilt into perspective and help us all get one finished. If it's been on your "wish to do" list, then maybe you want to play along. So here's the scoop ...

If you haven’t seen this magnificent quilt, here is a link to some photos in lots of different colors.

Make a visit to Judy Martin’s site. On the left menu, click on photos, and then select “Viewer Photos”. Scroll down to the photos from “The Creative Pattern Book.”

Inspiring isn’t it? And don’t be daunted by this quilt! We’re going to break it down into little steps that everyone can do – beginner to life experienced quilters will be happy with the final product! It’s only squares and half square triangles!! You can do this!

Beginning next month (September) there will be weekly postings with directions for the section of that week. You will have a week to finish the step before the next one comes out.

Some more photos if you’re still looking for just the right colors ...

this one uses a Ricky Tims hand-dye
http://www.flickr.com/photos/65592515@N00/1993035914/

another blue and white
http://www.thathomesite.com/forums/load/quilt/msg031300398300.html?23

A really unique variation
http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/quilt/msg0615130211725.html

blues and greens
http://lindahoosquiltjournal.blogspot.com/2009/08/shakespeare-in-park.html

black and gold and red
http://www.apopkaquilts.com/Shakespeare/

gorgeous rainbow
http://www.paxunum.org/desdemona-top-finished.jpg

Before we can start though, you’re going to need a few things: the book so you have the pattern–this is a critical component as the pattern will not be given online; rotary cutter and mat; chocolate; sewing machine (or hand sewing materials if that’s your method); fabric that you love, love, love; a seam ripper (just in case, you know!); chocolate (did I mention that already?); and a little bit of time each week to work on your project.

You’re in luck right now, too, because The Creative Pattern Book is on close-out special on Judy’s site. Hop on it and get your copy! Other sources for obtaining the book:

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Pattern-Book-Complete-Intriguing/dp/0929589068

Buy.com
http://www.buy.com/prod/the-creative-pattern-book/q/loc/106/33662687.html

Overstock.com
http://www.overstock.com/Books-Movies-Music-Games/The-Creative-Pattern-Book/949047/product.html?cid=123620&fp=F&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=3173198

Borders and Barnes and Noble can both order this book for you.

There are also sources in the UK and Australia if you Google Search the book title.

What's next? I'll be auditioning fabrics from my stash ... my belief is that "all greens go together" so I'm going to test that theory, with a special emphasis on lime greens that I've been collecting for years. I'll post some pictures when I choose my fabric!

Next steps:
Fabric Selection
Fabric Requirements