I finished this guy. Finally. And it was fun. Here’s a look at my Aerial Grove in Liberty and chambray that I started a little while ago (107 weeks according to Instagram) … with status updates here, here, here, here and most recently here. Wow. Lots of updates. But I guess that’s what happens when you can take your time with something. That last shot was taken when I finally decided to finish it up, and for good reason, because I was going to give it away.
This pattern is a project from my book and one that I’ve now made several times. This version is full of Liberty prints and lots of chambrays and denims.
One bonus of not finishing this sooner is that I was able to incorporate some euclid.
This quilt is such a play on texture, both in the fabrics and the quilting. Liberty lawn is so fine and soft, which makes it seem almost delicate. And the chambrays and denims have a heavier look and feel, but they’re also soft and very textured. I wanted the quilting to enhance that softness and create even more texture. Plus, since I used big stitch, there’s an added layer of color in the quilting too.
I even threw in a leftover Hesperides block. The colors, fabrics and shapes worked, and it wasn’t otherwise being used.
This version is the first that I’ve made with a darker background. (Seen next to my Kona version.)
On the back, I went with this lighter blue Widescreen. I like that it adds color, and you’re also able to see the quilting.
Pattern : Aerial Grove from Savor Each Stitch
Fabrics : Liberty for the appliqués, denims and chambrays (from Robert Kaufman), euclid, swiss dot chambray, leftover nani iro for the backgrounds, Widescreen for backing.
Wow! Gorgeous!
*Sigh* I love everything you make, Carolyn, but this might actually be my favourite! I just want to roll around in it right now. All the textures and colours and hand-quilting — magnifique!
It’s absolutely stunning!!! I love everything about this quilt. Can you share what kind of batting you used? It looks so beautifully fluffy and cozy.
Thanks so much! It’s wool.
to die for!!! (well, not really, but you know what I mean 🙂
completely stunning. chambray and liberty and your work is a match made in heaven.
thank you, Anna!
The colors and textures are beautiful. My next quilt will include your big stitch in colors, super idea. Thank you.
This is stunning and the perfect way to use small pieces of liberty. I love every element you have incorporated! You have a mix of hand quilting and machine quilting? It must have been very difficult to part with this one.
I was just thinking about Aerial Grove this morning and how much I wanted to make one… I might have to do the liberty thing too…
I love everything about this. Such a beautiful piece. I’ve been toying with the idea of adding a denim border to my almost-finished Collection quilt, and this sealed the deal. Thank you for your always inspiring work!
I just love this quilt! I have not taken the plunge and purchased any Liberty, but I just love the look, maybe someday. Thanks for so many pictures and progress updates. I’m a slow finisher, too, but usually love the result. Your big stitch quilting is wonderful. Do you use pearl cotton?
Hi Jane, Thanks so much! Yes, I use pearl cotton.
It just keeps getting more amazing! All my favorites: Carolyn Friedlander, Liberty, Robert Kaufman chambray, hand stitching. Love the darker background! Such an incredible gift!
Absolutely divine!
Absolutely stunning! I completely credit my applique addiction to you.
I don’t usually make quilts from books or patterns, but this one continues to call out to me. I think this is my favorite version of yours… though the one in your book is also dear to my heart. Congratulations on such a gorgeous finish!
Your Euclid collection is gorgeous. I’m a big fan of your fabrics, but I have yet to try it just because I’ve had trouble in the past with seam durability when I combine Essex with quilting cottons. Do you have any tricks for combining different substrates in patchwork for longterm durability? In my experience the Essex unravels in the seam allowances when paired with quilting cotton.
Thanks so much, Rachel! As for durability, I haven’t had problems mixing and matching. Of course, a 1.5mm is my go-to stitch length, which probably helps. Also, for whatever reason, pre-washing fabric seems to lessen the amount it frays, or that’s what I’ve noticed. Of course, high-quality fabric and thread are important, but I’m sure you’re already aware of that. Let me know if either of those things help!
Thanks, Carolyn. The confusing thing is that the quilt I had the most problem with Essex had a few paper pieced blocks. I used the Essex mainly in paper piecing, at which time I was using a very short stitch length, of course. That’s why I was so surprised when things came apart in a big way after the 2nd and 3rd washings. But, I don’t believe I prewashed those fabrics. Nowdays I prewash Essex, use a short stitch length and a wider seam allowance. It’s not always easy/practical to use a wider seam allowance though. I like to save Essex for less patchworky things like bags, etc. I just love your Euclid colors though, for quilting! So glad the new Friedlander collection will be mostly on quilting cotton. =)
I love this quilt so much! this is a fabulous version! I got your book and will surely make this one in a near future. Did you quilt it before you added the appliquéd pieces? thank you!
I have fallen in love with your Aerial Grove in Liberty ans Chambray. Do you have a pattern PLEASE.
Lyn Perth Western Australia.❤️🐾
Hi Lyn! Absolutely. This pattern can be found in my book, Savor Each Stitch. I’m glad you like it!
Inspiring to see the completed version. . . My initial inspiration as a result of your early postings & book got me started, but the project lingers as a WIP – occasionally worked on. Inspiration renewed . . .this could be a great winter project! thank you.
I’m so glad to hear that, Cheryl! Good luck with yours!