Wednesday, December 29, 2010

So Many Choices

My husband and I have not felt the need to acquire much "stuff" for many years now, so our Christmas lists are usually quite short. With each passing year, it gets harder and harder to think of something to put on my list. And frankly, the way-over-the-top commercialization of Christmas really bothers me anyway. I try to participate in that as little as possible, while still making the season a fun one for friends and family. This year, I came up with what I think is a wondeful gift to ask for -- one that both my husband and son can give me together.

I have admired barn quilts for a long time now and have been jealous of people around the country who have them on their barns, homes, and even businesses. So, while my son is home on semester break, he and my husband will make me a barn quilt. Well, not technically a barn quilt, but a quilt that will hang on the outside of our garage wall.

So, the first thing to do is to agree on a block design that we all like. Not such an easy thing to do when there are thousands to choose from. Needless to say, we (well, mostly I) have spent a lot of time going through these books to see if we can come up with something. We're getting close.


Next week, the guys will go get supplies and start working .The goal is to have it finished by the time my son goes back to Cornell in three weeks. It won't be hung until warmer weather (perhaps spring break?), but I'm willing to wait.

Although in this photo some of the birch tree's branches hide the big open space above the garage door, it gives you an idea of the space where we plan to hang the quilt block. Clicking on the picture might give you a bigger view.


Now the next decision to make is to whether to use the gray, maroon, and white colors of the house (perhaps with black) or to use some bright cheery colors like in most of my quilts! Decisions, decisions....

9 comments:

Lorene said...

Decisions, decisions, but we call these luxury decisions. Have fun trying to decide on the right color combinations. Happy new year

Lorene from Holland

grendelskin said...

What a wonderful gift! I've talked about doing the same - I want to use "Contrary Wife" but for some reason hubby has an issue with that. I bet you're having fun trying to choose!

Go with the brights, they'll stand out beautifully against the gray and will reflect your quilting style much better than subdued colors.

Kathy said...

Sounds like an exciting project to me! It's a great idea for a gift. You'll all have good memories of making it too.

Needled Mom said...

What a fun project!!! It will be perfect in that open spot.

Vivian said...

Nothing is more special than a project where family is involved. What a wonderful idea you have! I think I'd go with a bright one, but that's just me.
Have you visited the blog by the gal who's written a book (soon to be published) about barn quilts? Her blog is americanquilttrail.blogspot.com/. (Hers is one of the blogs I follow.) She has a lot of links on her blog and you just might find some on buildings with similar colors to your home.

Stella Jones said...

I'm sure it will look wonderful when it hangs above your garage door. You already have a very pretty house and the barn quilt will enhance it.
Blessings, Star

Diana LaMarre said...

Anya,
That sounds like a wonderful gift! I cannot wait to see it completed.

Sara said...

That is a great idea. You'll enjoy it every time you come and go from your house and remember it was made with love.

Melinda said...

What a wonderful gift. Post as soon as you have a photo please. Also, I would like to hear progress reports along the way.