Oriental Friendship Quilt

When I first got into quilting, I felt like I was unable to put fabrics together.  I used many kits to help me get an idea of what works and how to organize it in the quilt. I also relied more on patterns, which is something I'm not such a fan of now. This particular quilt is a result of some of that practicing.

It is called the Friendship pattern from Pincushion Boutique and I purchased it at the local quilt show many, many years ago. I don't know why I am attracted to the oriental prints, but they are just so lovely. I chose the cream floral fabric as the background rather than white because it felt more in-keeping with the oriental theme of the quilt.

I also decided to try some of my own quilting.  This was one of my first attempts.  I wasn't thrilled with how it turned out, but it wasn't bad.  I wish I had used a colored thread instead of white, but oh well. hindsight is 20/20, right?

I have to admit, my favorite part of this quilt is the back. I finished the top in the summertime and was able to pick backing fabric from Rosie's during a trip to San Diego. I love the blue's and burgundy's.  I love the fish swimming around with the sea plants drifting around them.  It feels like a very peaceful fabric to me.  Do you have fabrics that make you feel a certain way? Peaceful, sleepy, hungry, energetic, excited? Okay, maybe that sounds silly, but this fabric is awesome and was an exciting find.

Recently, I have seen quilts using this pattern, but with modern-style fabrics. I was inspired and might look into trying it again. Maybe with a jelly roll? I think I would make it bigger, too. Not just the quilt itself, but maybe the blocks as well.  We'll see.  There's such a long line of projects that it will have to wait.

I'm linking up with Crazy Mom Quilts today for Finished Friday.  Can't wait to browse through and see what everyone else is working on.