Outside the Pizza Box

An online friend (from the HGTV Quilting and Needlework forum) held a block swap a couple of years ago.  We each chose a theme and mailed a Fat Quarter of fabric to another participant.  Every few weeks, we'd make a block centered around the theme and using just a small piece of the FQ.  When there were 12 blocks, we all mailed them back to the originator.

The hostess had a goal of challenging every one to create something unusual, rather than making the same kind of block that we're comfortable making.  She named our swap "Outside the Pizza Box."

My theme was High Afternoon Tea.  I don't know why.  But it seemed fun and the FQ I sent was an elegant paisley with gold metallic highlights.

I joined all the blocks, then put it away for another 6 months or so, awaiting some backing fabric.  But somehow, I managed to push past all the inertia and load this one on the frame.

I like the fact that some of the blocks are appliqued and some are pieced.

Care for some cheesecake?

Or a box of chocolates?

Perhaps you'd prefer a heart shaped box of chocolates instead ...

And some tea, of course.

This last photo was taken before I started working on the blocks.  I took it to remember what the border looks like.  However, I just had to show you this adorable mug.  The handle is made from a leather cord.  And the mug is actually a pocket.  It came with a tea bag inside of it!  I had to remove it for quilting, but once the quilt is finished, a tea bag will go back to this mug.  So clever and this quilter was definitely thinking outside the box.

The quilting is not finished yet.  Three borders and all the cornerstones are still waiting.  Then, I'll inspect and see if I need to add another element here or thread with thread.  I've had a blast with the feathers, although I thought the thread matched the fabrics better when I chose it.  It sort of reminds me of the steaming milk in a latte, so I'm going to consider it a plus.

Our family saw the play, It's a Wonderful Life this afternoon.  My husband's soccer teammate starred in the leading role, which made it even more fun.  Yes, I actually had to wipe tears away before the lights were turned back on their bright settings.  I'm sappy, but that was so sweet.  A nice way to begin the holiday season this year.

Enjoy your day!
- SeeingStars