Reflecting on 2013

Well, after reading a lot of reflective blogs I have been inspired to post about 2013. At first I was thinking that I had 'only' finished one quilt. Mind you, even though I do say so myself, the Morrell was one major finish!!!

I had completely forgotten about the 'Spot the Caravan' quilt that my sister and I designed and sewed together for the newest member to our extended family.

Smaller projects that I finished included my iPad mini cover made with treasured fabrics that I had purchased in Japan.

I made a scarf earlier in the year for my sister from an Etchings charm pack, she ended up, using it as a runner.

I made her a Bordeaux Berries runner for Christmas (I'll try and be more original for the next gift).

And one in a blue colour way for my brother.

I also made a couple of bird decorations.

and a birdy cushion.

I really liked the way Hilda included her progress on current projects in her reflective post, not just her finishes so I'm copying that good idea and including my 2013 starts and WIPs as well. 

I started The Comfort Quilt early in the year - I was happy to discover that I have made 12 blocks (each block is made up of 8 mini blocks) and only have 4 to go!

Another start was Auntie Green who has been rather neglected lately, though once again I was happy to discover that it was only October when I last worked on her.

And now I'm working on Di Ford's Antique Wedding Sampler (revisited) where I have finished 6 blocks.

I've almost managed to keep up with Sharon's Chester County Criswell Quilt BOM, this has been such fun to make this reproduction quilt along with other bloggers.

CCCQ center block 

Through the CCCQ I also experienced my first online block swap with Wanda in the USA.

I finished all of the blocks for my 12 days of Christmas but sadly didn't finish the whole quilt this year. I actually finished this block last January!

And stitched the four of these keystone blocks...

So after looking back I'm really happy with all of the sewing I have managed to do this year. I've had some great experiences and learnt so much.

I've participated in classes with two fabulous Australian Designers, Di Ford...

...and Irene Blanck

I attended the Melbourne Craft and Quilt Fair in July, the Australasian Quilt Convention in March and Quilts in the Barn (twice!) in September.

I joined two new groups, nationally The Applique Guild of Australia and locally the Friday Threaders Sewing Circle.

I've made great on-line friends and actually got to meet some in person at QITB!

Hilda (Every Stitch) and I

Miriam (Yellow Roses), Sharon (Chester County Criswell Quilt) & me

So fond farewell 2013 I have had a great year and thank you to all who follow or read my blog for your inspiration and encouragement.

Cheers

Carole

ps We are having such a cool summer that we had an open fire last night in our outside BBQ area, it made a nice back drop to the Christmas tree which will be coming down soon. I'm more than happy to have a mild summer as it reduces the bushfire fear factor - my thoughts are with those who have been sweltering in extreme heat in other parts of Australia.