The Between Week, A Review- Fresh Little Nine Patch

Who was dreaming of a white Christmas? Well, we sure got that this year as well as sub-zero temperatures! Our celebration was small, very special, and filled with hope for the future. In spite of everything going on in our homes, our communities, and our world, the family core is the strength of our future. With 2023 just days away, I wish a long happy, healthy and prosperous life for all. Of course, the new year will be like many others. There will be good times and not so good, stresses and loss. But today, right now, I will savor the season. 

 

As I have in years past, I use the "between" (last week of the year) to share posts that have a theme or have been viewed many times. The why behind that is really very simple, the popularity of some designs or processes seem to remain constant. Whether it is a traditional pattern or a new art piece, we all seem to return to our favorites. The first of this series is the 9 patch traditional quilt design. Whether one uses traditional style fabrics, batiks, or modern abstract prints, the design is a strong one that can be used by even the most advanced quilter or the newbe. This is just one of many posts from the past. 

seen on Pinterest-from Amish Spirit-Website-Here-items are for sale, no affiliation BTW

 

If you have visited here for any length of time you know I have a passion for 9 patch quilts. Not sure why. Traditional yes, scrappy works well, yes, but it think it is the symmetry that I find so calming. Some of my first quilts, gifts from Husband's Grandmother and Aunt, were 9 patches and I think the seed was planted there.

Great for a two color or multi-color option, these blocks are outstanding for using up scrap blocks. I have a collection of 6 and 8 inch 9 patch blocks made as I go from scraps. A long way to go but I always feel like I am visiting old friends when I sort them. 

This one is made as a Halloween Theme with all scrap fabrics.

In my scrap management system I also save all the pieces from the 2 1/2 inch jelly roll pre-cuts to use for 9 patch quilts. I sort of sort them by color way to make choosing combinations accordingly. I often use the Go cutter to cut odd pieces of yardage as well. Probably the least favorite quilt I have ever made but Hubs loves it.

• nobody does scrap quilts better than Bonnie Hunter IMO. This link will take you to one of her free patterns at Quiltville Dancing Nines-pattern! One of the most generous designers out there.
•  I am thinking of a Christmas theme quilt in 9 patch. I have so many themed fabrics that need to be used but I don't want to fuss endlessly with a pattern. This might work. Update on that to follow soon because I like to start my Holiday projects right after July 4th.  If I can get it all cut out before then I will be able to do the piecing during some down time scheduled for July.
• HOT FUN IN THE SUMMERTIME! Sly and the Family Stone!

, Summer is here. So are the bugs, and storms. In an attempt to rock and relax on the porch I admired the mosquito's. I thought they were hummingbirds. I came in. And the weather map indicates approaching storms, again. We were without power for about 6 hours the other day. I would be a lousy pioneer. ...........