Some design ideas get kicked around for a while, and this is one of them.
The name catenary refers to the natural arch that’s created by a cord hanging from two points. When I lived in St Louis, I learned that the shape of the Gateway Arch was inspired by this type of curve, and I always liked the simple elegance of that shape.
What I think I like about using this design now is how it works with Doe. Doe is very angular, kind of masculine, and somewhat raw, whereas the arch is a graphic curve with some softness to it. Together, I find them to be an interesting pair and a fun way to work with the fabric.
When piecing the blocks, I especially liked seeing how the grids worked off of each other against the curves. And then the quilting was another way to play off of that.
The blocks work with easy strips of fabric, which made it great for exploring how the different prints mix in the collection. I also ended up going with a loose color and value transition starting with darker blues and blacks on top, working towards lighter values and softness at the bottom.
To see more of the specifics about the pattern, you can visit the pattern page here.
#catenaryquilt
#doefabric
#doevember
Love the linear quality of ‘Doe’! and being a St. Louisan…. think the pattern is ultra cool! Also wish I could still find more of your ‘Architextures’ line…
You know I’m madly in love with this. I adore hearing about the inspiration behind it and how the fabrics work with each other.
This is such a beautiful quilt, and as a current St. Louisan, I’m particularly fond of it. I can’t wait to get my hands on some Doe!
Love the quilt – love the fabric. You are my favorite designer!
Again: Stunning! This is such a nice idea with the inner and outer shapes. Love it!
I bought your book. It is so well designed and explained. I am German but I can follow your instructions…
you are making me want to applique all the things!
Love the way the quilt almost looks like the sunrise or sunset from the Arch – my favorite is to go up around sunset and look west.
I had the best time working on this quilt for my niece’s 16th birthday. I used all different cat print fabrics (she loves cats) as a play on the word catenary.
Ahh, I love it! That sounds so great!