With my favorite cousin expecting a little one, I decided I was going to teach myself how to make a quilt for her nursery. It was a no pressure situation. If I hated the process, I wouldn’t ever have to make another one, and if I loved it, I’d be learning the basics and starting to build my creative skills with this new hobby. I wasn’t under a time crunch because I started way earlier than I needed to have it finished, so it became a passion project to pick up when I wanted to and leave it alone when I didn’t. The elimination of having to be perfect or having to be done quickly made the process for Project No. 1 the perfect start to my quilting journey. Plus, I got to hand it over as a gift at the baby shower in person which enhances that extra-special feeling that comes with handmade crafting.
The process itself turned out to be incredibly rewarding (and the initiation of my new quilting addiction). Each stitch and pattern design selection became an opportunity to express my love and excitement for the new arrival. I chose fabrics that matched the nursery’s theme and colors, making the quilt a personalized and thoughtful addition to the baby’s room. As I worked on the quilt, I found myself reflecting on memories with my cousin when we were kids and imagining the joyful moments ahead with her and her baby as she was now fully embracing adulthood.
Moreover, I discovered a surprising sense of relaxation and mindfulness while quilting. It provided a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The repetitive motions and focus required allowed me to unwind and find a rhythm that was both soothing and satisfying. I started looking forward to my quilting sessions, eager to see the quilt take shape and proud of the progress I was making.
When the baby shower finally arrived, the look of surprise and delight on my cousin’s face when she opened the gift made all the effort worthwhile. She appreciated the time and thought that went into making the quilt, and knowing that it would be part of her baby’s early years filled my cup to the brim. This quilt wasn’t just a gift; it was a tangible expression of love, patience, and creativity that I was proud to share with my family.
No. 1 – Specs.
- Size: Crib
- Top Design: Krafty Threads Custom Design
- Top Fabric: Dear Stella’s “To the Moon” Collection + “Happy Moons” from Capsule’s “Stargazer”
- Threads: Gütermann 100% Cotton 1006 White (Piecing) Gütermann 100% Cotton 4950 Salmon (Quilting)
- Batting: Pellon 100% Natural Cotton
- Backing Fabric: Minky in Pink Beige
- Binding: Wright’s Double Fold in Sunlight
- Quilting Style: Free-motion wavy lines
- Machine: Vintage 1970’s Kenmore & Singer Heavy Duty 6800C
