Monday, January 5, 2009

Project Improv - Won't You Join Me?

It's not to late to join...read on!
I began quilting again after I saw the Gee's Bend exhibit. I felt joy being surrounded by quilts that expressed freedom in design, whimsy, unpredictability and at the same time utility. I love quilts that are offbeat, free-form, note-bending. At about the same time I saw the Gee's Bend quilts, I discovered the quilts of Denyse Schmidt and excitedly bought her book in my desire to make improvised log cabin blocks and to my surprise finding only patterns rather than a path to improvisation.

A few weeks ago I was reading Kim's post in the archives of her blog Dioramarama about the disconnect between Denyse Schmidt's improvisational style and the patterns in her book and even the incongruity of a coordinated fabric line and Denyse's varied and unconventional combinations of fabric choices in her quilts. Like Kim I was inspired to do "grand improvisational things" but was also "overwhelmed, paralyzed by options" and I was definitely lacking the skills, but more importantly the confidence to put ideas into action.

I struggled on my own and figured out my own way to do a wonky log cabin. Denyse's book put me on the road to striking out on my own. I'm indebted to her and the other improvisational quilters who have shared their work, their processes, their inspirations and their stories. They have helped me build my confidence to try.

Kim's words and her post echo my feelings, my desire to improvise and quilt with abandon, yet the frustration I feel not being able to take a class from the masters of improvisation Denyse Schmidt, Nancy Crow or Gwen Marston, or visit with the quilters of Gee's Bend or have the confidence to step out on my own. I've heard the words echo in my head, "I'm not an artist." But, you know what, I am. I have ideas. I can make them happen, and so can you.

There are a few avenues of support online such as Tonya, at Lazy Gal Quilting. Tonya and her friend Bonnie have supported liberated quilting with their online classes and quilt togethers. I appreciate what they are both doing and I will continue to participate and learn from them. Many of my online quilting friends do improvisational pieces and post about them. I have learned much from them as well.

Many of the quilters who visit my blog ask me questions about improvising. I'm not an expert, but I am a learner. I want to continue to support and become a part of the network that is building around improvisational quilting. That is the purpose of 'project improv', to support each other in our goal to quilt improvisationally, to quilt outside the lines and to find our own voice as quilters.

So, are you with me? I hope so. Here's what I'd like to do.
(photo used by permission of Denyse Schmidt)
"Student in Denyse's Schmidt's Improvisational Patchwork workshop."

This is a picture from a workshop at Denyse Schmidt's studio. Someday, I'll be there too. Until then, this is the kind of quilt I would like to tackle, an improvised log "cabinish" quilt. I have done several log cabin quilts, most of them improvisationally, but I have barely scratched the surface of all the possibilites for improvisation of this traditional block. These are some of the things that we could explore: variations of the construction of the block itself, the fabrics we use, how we cut our fabric (rotary, scissors, tearing), color/pattern combinations, wonkiness (of course), sizes of the logs. What other ideas do you have? If you've never pieced improvisationally I'll be here to support you and hopefully more experienced folks will join in and help too.

Each of us is at a different place in our level of comfort with improvisation. The task here is to identify your comfort zone and take one step (or more) outside of it. Find that level of challenge that is right for you. You choose your fabrics, your construction technique, size of blocks and final size of your project. Make a mini, a tablerunner, or a quilt from baby to king size. I'm making a bed quilt.

There is one other part to 'project improv'...collaboration. I would like this project to include making pieces for ourselves, but also contributing to others. I am asking each quilter who joins the project to commit to making one 12.5 inch improvised log cabinish block to donate to a charity quilt. There is no deadline for finishing your final piece, though I will be hosting periodic quilt shows to showcase finished quilts. The only deadline will be for the blocks. I'd like them to arrive by April 1st with July 1 being the deadline for finishing up the charity quilts. I will group the charity blocks together and depending on how many folks join in we can make them into quilts. I will make at least one and I hope some of you who join in will want to volunteer to finish some into quilts too.

If you would like to join in here's what you need to do:
*leave a comment on this post saying "I'm in!". Make sure I have your email address so I can contact you. I will post your name on my sidebar as a participant. (help me out folks...I need your EMAIL ADDRESS so I can contact you.) Many of you are no reply bloggers...your email doesn't show up automatically.
*choose a color scheme for your donation block: (the block doesn't have to be exclusively those colors...just include them somewhere in your block so that the donation quilts will feel cohesive.)
red/aqua
blue/green
orange/pink
*let me know if you might want to work on the charity quilts...no commitment, just interest.
*grab the button from my sidebar and link back here if you'd like.
*tell anyone else you think might want to participate.

I'm excited to get started. I hope you'll join me.
We're now at 127 participants. How fun is that!!!

Comments are now closed. You are still welcome to join the flickr group.

215 comments:

1 – 200 of 215   Newer›   Newest»
Meghan said...

Hey there--I'm not quite 'in' on this round, but I certainly share your sentiments and desires. I'm currently planning my first quilt, inspired in equal parts by Gee's Bend, Denyse Schmidt, and your lovely square motion quilt. Although I won't have the time to dedicate to this current effort, I wanted to let you know that I think it's a great idea and I will certainly be watching for updates!

BarbaraS said...

I'm in.
barbara.snyder@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I'm in, I am going to shoot for the pink/orange for the charity quilt. I am new at improvisational quilting so this will be a good challenge for me.

MichelleB said...

Okay, I'm in. I'll do blue/green for the charity block.

Anonymous said...

I so want to do this. I have so much trouble going "out of the lines", but I definitely love the look of them, and have been inspired by many of yours :)
I'll do a red/aqua for the charity and would be glad to help finish it in any way.
goingsewcrazy@gmail.com

Twisted Quilts said...

I am blown away by your post. I could have written it myself. I try very hard to think of myself as an artist after years of thinking I was artistically challenged. I enjoy improvisation but it definitely takes a leap of faith in yourself. I would love to participate.
nahardee@hotmail.com

Melanie O said...

Okay, I'm in! I was planning on making my first quilt this year (after finishing "practicing" on some doll quilts I started!). This sounds wonderful! I will contribute a red/aqua block for charity, but I'm definitely not at the skill level to help quilt the charity quilts -- yet!

audreypawdrey said...

I would love to participate, too! This is a fabulous idea. I will do blue/green for the charity quilt and I would be willing to help assemble the tops.

This will be a lot of fun!

Anna said...

I'm in. I'm new to improvisational quilting, but am so inspired by the genre. I'm looking forward to the challenge and stretching myself as a quilter/artist. I would like to participate in the charity quilt and would like to do red/aqua.

anna_levengood@comcast.net
http://annaleih.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

I'm in. I have a lot of pink/orange fabrics right now, so I'll go for that for the charity block.

Joanna said...

You KNOW I'm in!! I have a love affair with all the color combos you mentioned, but I think this time I'll do pink/orange.

I really need this kick in the pants - I want to be more improvisational...the desire is there, I think I need to learn the techniques better. Love it!

Unknown said...

So Jacquie . . . you know me, I always have a plan, look at what you and others do on the fly, and I like it, but haven't broken out of my box. . . This seems to be the perfect push! I'm in - Love what your doing gathering quilters, and with charity quilts - it's great :)

Anonymous said...

I'M IN.

This is a big leap for me, I've never done an improv quilt--I'll need help, ladies! That being said, my finished quilt--probably a new bed quilt for us--may take me a while. I do have one fabric that will serve as inspiration.

For the charity block, count me in on the blue/green palette. Thank you for the great idea!

erica e said...

what a great post. i haven't done much improvisational stuff at all but you've inspired me and this sounds fun. i'd like to join in. and i'd like to do the red/aqua combo. thanks!

Maggie said...

I'm in.

patricia@sketchbookmaggie.net

I'll do a blue/green block. I've done an improvisational quilt and loved it. I need to do more. This is a great way to start the new year.

Meagan said...

Ooh, I'm in, I'm in! As I'm still stuck at the quilt process of making quilt tops, I can't really promise to make the quilts themselves, but I love this idea. I'm going to push myself and go with red and aqua.

QuiltedSimple said...

Im in - I'll do 2 blocks in whatever color combos you need - and I will gladly quilt one (and donate backing and batting for it). Just let me know when. This will be fun!
Kris

Christina Lane | The Sometimes Crafter said...

For years I told myself, i'm not an artist. I can't paint. I can't draw. Then my mom and I painted a huge canvas with two crows on it. It now hangs in her living room and every time I see it I remind myself that I AM an artist. I can draw. I can paint. Just not perfectly. But that's the charm of it. I love your idea, but i'm going have to pass on committing to anything right now. I've read about Denyse's courses in NY and think to myself - I need to get a paper bag, fill it with scraps and go for it! But maybe next time around.

Beth said...

I'm in! I love the look of improvisational quilting but have been afraid to try.

I will also try for the charity quilt, pink/orange please, or wherever you need some blocks (an excuse to buy more fabric!).

Denise Felton said...

Fantastic idea! And you are such a good egg for taking on the responsibility for this project! I've just posted a link to your post on my blog. I hope it brings you some extra readers and participants. I'll be eagerly watching the progress of Project Improv!

Denise
http://needlework.craftgossip.com

froghair said...

I'm in! I'll do one block of each colorway, and I volunteer to help with the quilt binding (honestly one of my favorite parts of quilting). Thanks for organizing this -- I'm looking forward to it!

-- Andrea
amslusser[[at]]gmail[[dot]]com
http://frog-hair.blogspot.com/

calicodaisy said...

I'm in. I'll go with the red/aqua color group. -- Michele

Geraldine said...

Hi!
I'm in. I need to get going with my quilting and I love the look! I do not have a blog, is that OK? I will do the charity block in blue/green. I need this!!
Gerrie

jacquie said...

geraldine...you don't have to have a blog, but i do need your email. please send it to jgeringirre at yahoo dot com. thanks!

driftwood said...

I'm in! great idea. xx

Rachael Adele said...

I'm in! Blue and green!

KateKwiltz said...

I am SO there! But I can't decide -- is it too ambitious to do one of each color scheme?

Alissa said...

Jacquie, I LOVE that you are organizing this. I have dreams of someday getting back east to take the DS class but until then we're on our own with pushing ourselves. Thanks for helping with that! I am SO in. I'll go for Pink & Orange as I'm yet to combine those colors and need to push myself. When things are further along let me know where the finishing quilts stands. If I have the time I'd be happy to help!

Heidi said...

I'm in too :)

Orange/pink for the donated quilt block.

heidielliott72@gmail.com

two hippos said...

This is great. I'm in -- the blue/green black.

Bonus Mom said...

I am so in for the block! I would love to do the red/aqua. A personal goal I set for myself is to make a bigger than a baby quilt quilt this year. You know what, put me done for all three color ways :)

Angie said...

I'm in on making the block, but we'll be in the middle of a move VERY soon, so I wouldn't be able to help put a quilt together. I think I'm understanding that it would be ok to only do that?

I have plenty of aqua and red, so I can go for that.

Shannon said...

I'm in! Orange/Pink
Shannon, frecklesquilts@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

I'm in. Sounds great! I think I'll go for a blue/green color scheme for the charity block. This is going to be so fun and I love the charity quilts idea too.

Lisa said...

Count me in! I am going to shoot for one of each color, too. I can't pick just one. I would not have thought of any of those combos except for the red/turquoise, and that only b/c I have been seeing it pop up on lots of cool blogs lately. :-)

Are there any guidelines for the block, like it has to be a log-cabin type block, or can it be a crazy block or whatever we want?
Does it have to be quilt shop fabric or can I use vintage/thrifted stuff? I was thinking about sewing, say, a bunch of red scraps together and making strips out of that and so on, but that's just one of my thoughts so far.

Allie said...

Of course I’m In!

I'll do a blue/green block.
I love that you are including a charity quilt!

jovaliquilts said...

Perfect timing -- I am about to attempt a wonky log cabin for my family room and it will be great to have the support of a group while I do it! Thanks so much for doing this. I'll do a red/aqua block for charity. If you simply hit reply to this comment, my email will pop up.

Leslie said...

Well, after going back and forth I'm going to take the plunge and say I'm in. I'm going to do aqua/blue. I'm excited to stretch myself and see what happens!

Leslie said...

I mean blue/green not aqua/blue. Oops. :)

em's scrapbag said...

Never really done something like this before but I'm in. I need a little stretching. Pink/orange for the charity block. Thanks for helping me grow!

Anonymous said...

I'm in! I'll do pink/orange.

I'm in Australia so I can't help out with the quilt assembly (the postage would kill us!!)

Perfect timing for me, I was gritting my teeth knowing that i have to get started on a wonky log cabin. This will make me take the plunge.

Tine said...

I would so love to join! I don't have the time to sew an entire quilt, but I would love to work on smaller improv pieces. Would that work?
If so, I would like to do blue/green for my charity block :)

Doris said...

I'm in! You inspire me, Denyse inspires me, the Gee's Bend Quilts inspire me...so why not~ I'll do blue green for my donation block... I've been wanting to do this anyway with my scarps so this will motivate me to action!

Doris in Des Moines
auntiedart(at)yahoo(dot)com

dutchcomfort said...

Okidoki, I’m in!

I’ll make a red/aqua block for the charity quilt.

Anonymous said...

I've been wanting to try this out so this is great timing! Please count me in!! I'd also like to do a charity block...maybe the orange pink combo.
Jodym7@yahoo.com
Thanks for organizing this!!!

henny said...

Jacquie,
deep in my heart I really want to say "I'm in", but I'm afraid. You can see my projects, I'm totally a newcomer in sewing world :) all of you are experts to me. but I'll always watch and read this brilliant project for updates (and learning).

Sequana said...

I'm in. *S*.....and I think blue/green will be my block contribution.

This will be fun.

annie in chicago

Anonymous said...

I'm In.

Like another commenter, I could have totally written your post. I love this style, and want to explore it more.

I'm happy to do a blue/green block.

Can't wait to hear more.

I'm at jmiskimon@yahoo.com

Jean

bettyninja said...

I'm in!

bettywhoosh (at) gmail dot com

blue/green group

Great post- I've had similar feelings about what started me into this little world of improv.

Ariana said...

I'm in! Sounds fun. Put me down for the pink/orange group.

Ariana said...

email address is arianabehmer@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

Please count me in!
alobsiger (at) gmail dot com

Pink/orange is my charity block color preference. I'd be happy to help put a quilt together provided things aren't all icky around that time. :-)

Pam said...

I'm in. Time to stop lurking and start joining. Blue/green is good for me. uberstitch@gmail.com

Anina said...

I'm in.
I had to think about this a little but it sounds like fun.
To start the "out of the box" feeling, I'll do pink/orange.

Victoria said...

I'm in!
Orange/Pink for the charity block.

Also, great post Jacquie! I have my tomorrow's blog post typed up and waiting, and coincidentally it talks about Gee's Bend, improvised quilts, my disdain for patterns and how I wish everyone would let there own unique creativity sore when they sewed! I am really looking forward to seeing what you have unleashed here!

Kim said...

I'm in! I'd like to do my donation block in pink & orange. Won't be able to help with putting the quilts together since I'm 6000 miles away. But I can cheer you on! :-)

kimberlyhoyt (at) yahoo (dot) com

Regi said...

Count me in!

I will be happy making a pink/orange block for the charity quilt unless you find yourself short on one of the other color combos. Just let me know.

~Regi

Anonymous said...

I'm in! I think this will be a great project for me and it's for a good cause. I'd like to do pink/orange.

tammy.robbins@ymail.com

Mary P said...

I'm so excited! I'm totally in.
Never done an improvisational quilt but I've been quilting for 19 years. It's about gosh darn time!

Mary
mpustejovsky at gmail dot com

qusic said...

great post, count me in for a red/aqua charity block.

Tonya Ricucci said...

Thanks for the shout out. I didn't realize Denise Schmidt taught improvisation - the only thing I've seen are the patterns. I'm in - I'll go with blue and green. How do I get the button to put in in my sidebar?

Mel said...

I'm in! I'll use green and blues.
Great idea!

MightyMom said...

all right, lovely idea!

I'm gonna sit and watch this round as improv really doesn't call my name, I'm very traditional pieced blocks. :-)

But it will be so very much fun to see what everyone comes up with.

2ndAvenueStudio-Rachel said...

Im in! I need a push in this direction...
and I might be interested in quilting for charity, so put me on the list...
(im assuming you mean the tops, right)

Im blue/green for charity.

corry said...

Yes, I'm in. I will be happy making a blue/green block for the charity quilt!

Lily Boot said...

I'm in - totally out of my comfort zone - I'm a compulsively neat, follow the rules girl - but this is just the thing I need for 2009 to help me absorb something new and let go of all the ropes! And I was going to say pink and orange - but you know, I've done heaps of that so let's say red and aqua. lily@blockaday.com

Lisa said...

Hey Jacquie.. what a cool idea! I love your ideas! I AM IN!!!! red/aqua for the charity block!

kathi said...

Ooh, I'm in. I've been wanting to do a red and aqua quilt, so that's what I choose for this project. I'd also be interested in helping with the charity quilts.

patty a. said...

I have been following your blog and would love to join the improv block quilt project. Orange/pink is for me. I have been studing improvational piecing for a number of years and have started a series. (I will e-mail you a picture of one of my pieces.) I don't have a website or a blog. You can get my e-mail address from the e-mail I send you.

Cheryl Arkison said...

I'm in for sure, sign me up for the red/aqua bent. I really like that scheme.

I had the same thoughts about Denyse Schmidt books. I'm not a pattern person at all so it was very disappointing. And to be honest, while I love the look of the wonky log cabins I was worried that it was getting overdone. I will enjoy this challenge to push myself against that view and see where we can go.

Joanna said...

Hi Jacquie

I see that everyone seems to want to do pink/orange, so even though it's one of my favorite color schemes ever, how about I do something different? Sign me up for aqua/red:) I love that too:)

kat said...

oh, what the heck - i'm in! i love love love log cabin so this is perfect! i'd much rather be doing this than keeping up with my blog (though, i do hope to be getting back to that soon enough). I will gladly do the red/aqua combo. very exciting!
-kat
orangegiggle@bellsouth.net

Two Dogs and a Quilt said...

I'm in, too. Pink/orange and I'd be willing to quilt a charity quilt when the time comes. I'll send you my email address separately. Great idea, thanks for sharing it!

Wendy said...

I'll do a red/aqua charity block!
wendyleep@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I'm in! Sounds like fun. I'm up for any color combo you may need for the charity quilts and I'm happy to help with the quilting or binding (I do have a strange love of binding!)

Sara said...

Oh, Jacguie. I am so very tempted to say, "I am in." I just don't know if I am un to snuff (I know - this is all non judgemental but I am my hardest critic).
Maybe....maybe....ok. Yes! I am IN!

Anonymous said...

Count me in!

I can't decide between green/blue and orange/pink. Put me in for both. I'm also willing to piece blocks (you may want a more practiced quilter though, I'll let you know after my next try.)

Great idea. Thanks for pulling it all together.

Anonymous said...

Count me in!

I can't decide between green/blue and orange/pink. Put me in for both. I'm also willing to piece blocks (you may want a more practiced quilter though, I'll let you know after my next try.)

Great idea. Thanks for pulling it all together.

Karen said...

I'm soooooo In;) Love the idea and it might just be the kick in the pants that I need to break out of the traditional box that I have been in forever. Think I'll work on pink and orange...love that combo. I might be able to help put quilts together, depending on what's going on when they are ready to go.

BTW, you truly are an artist;)

Rebekah said...

this is such a fun idea! I can't participate right now because of school but I will definitely be following your progress :)

Jackie Russell said...

I love Denyse Schmidt quilts. I just recieved her book for Christmas. I would love to try it even if I don't get one of my own projects done I can get at least one block done for you (and step outside my comfort zone). I would like to do blue/green or orange/pink.

Anonymous said...

i'm in too- also for 2 blocks- orange/ pink and blue/green!. such fun- also willing to help quilt with peg at ivy arts- though I am a novice quilter.
thanks so much

no blog- so be13cca@verizon dot net
:)

N. Canadas said...

I'm in! I am relatively new to quilting but am looking to challenge myself. I will choose to do the blue/green color scheme for the charity quilt. Thanks for coming up with yet another inspiring idea!
ncanadas@hotmail.com

Solidia said...

Hi! I would like to join in!! I will make a block in the pink/orange family to donate.

Cheryl in CT said...

hmmmm - this looks mighty interesting. I would love to join - count me in for a pink/orange block. Not sure what I'm gonna make, but have been quite paralyzed in the "improv" department. Thank you for starting this!
cherylquiltnut@gmail.com

Bison Girl said...

I'M SO IN! Super excited too.

ericahager@mac.com
www.bisongirl.com

red/aqua

Amanda Jean said...

i'm in, too! i'm excited about this. i'll do an orange and pink block.

Anonymous said...

I would really love to be a part of this too! I'm in!
tracyharris@tds.net
and I'll go with orange/pink for the donation block, since I love orange.

James and Aimee said...

I would love to participate. I'm in! I'll do blue/green. Thank you for doing this! Improv quilting is new to me, but it looks like a lot of fun. I'm excited to try this.

jamesaimee@kinfolkonline.net

Anonymous said...

I'm in as well!

tifdara@yahoo.com

I can do green/aqua :0)

Heleen said...

whauw, so manny...
I'm in!
Pink/orange my favorite colours!

Fulvia said...

I would like to be in if there is still room. I would gladly make an orange/pink block, or any that you need really. Thanks.

Dallas said...

Is it too late to sign up? I'd like to participate. Blue/Green is my preference for my charity block.

Katie Jean said...

I'm in, if there's still room that is! I'd love to help with a charity quilt too. I'd be interested in a red/aqua one, but I'll do whatever is needed. This sounds lots of fun!

katiebhandbags@gmail.com

LauraJ said...

Are you at 100 yet?? I'd like to be in! I'm not quite following...do I make a quilt and send it to charity?

Leah said...

If you haven't reached 100 yet then count me in!!

I don't mind which of the charity colour combinations I make - just let me know if you are short of any combo.

Shari said...

I'll echo the "are you at 100 yet" sentiment. If not, please count me in. I've not yet tried any improvisational quilting---but am a definite fan of Denyse Schmidt and Gwen Marston (been searching for her out of print Liberated Quiltmaking).

Anonymous said...

I'm in!
pink/orange
ruched at mac dot com

Tammy said...

count me in, if I've made it under the 100 wire. I'll work on a square for the red-aqua charity quilt.

msalleycat said...

I'm in. I love your post, I love your work on Flickr (you ARE an artist), and I've just finished my first bed-size quilt, basically all improvised, and largely inspired by Bonnie & her site. And I'm red/aqua.

Sara said...

Yes, yes, I want to make one that is PINK/ORANGE!

And I want to be more wonky. Took two workshops from Gwen in my lifetime, and last fall made it to one of her Beaver Island Retreats.
I just need to STOP the old methods/requests.

Leah said...

please please im SO in!! i'd love to do blue/green and I'll do FOUR of them. I know in your most recent post you said you'd stop at 100 but please let me join. (does that sound like begging?)

Janis said...

I suspect I've missed the boat and if so it's okay, I have a busy spring ahead of me.

If I DO come in under the wire, I'll take the blue/green category if it's available.

Thanks Jacquie, you're an amazing gal!

rudjana@sbcglobal.net

syko kajsa said...

Hi there, I'm into red and aqua! I was just gathering fabrics to make an improvised log-cabinish quilt when I found the link to your project on Nicolette's blog! My way into creating patterns myself was when I discovered Australian quilt artist Jan Mullen (on-line as always). I love improvising and I think I became an "artist" the day I stopped staring at other people's instructions and thinking for myself! Thanks for a great post!

Robin (RsIslandCrafts) said...

I have never made a log cabin block before. They never really "appealed" to me. Now, I do like the wonky log cabins alot. They are on my need to try list this year. I have a hard time with precision piecing, so wonky describes me well :)

Please include me in the orange/pink category for your charity blocks.

Anonymous said...

How did I miss this? I'm in! And I'll for red and aqua.
Thanks for organizing such a great project.
auburnstudios@gmail.com

epban said...

If it's not too late I'd love to participate and "think outside the box"! Red and Aqua would be my first choice.
Thanks!

epban@bellsouth.net

Lindsey said...

I'm in...I'll be a pink/orange girl for the charity quilt. Great idea. I've been looking for something to set me free from all of these flying geese!

Betsy said...

count me in. Orange and pink block.

henny said...

Hey Jackie,
after I'm thinking over it again... maybe I wanna try to join this challenge. If there's still a place (cos I see more then 100 now) I'm in and pick blue-green. I'll wait your confirmation.
hennya_here@yahoo.co.id

Anonymous said...

Jacquie, I wish that I had caught up on my blog reading days ago. I hope that it's not too late for me to add my name to the list, but I understand if you need to draw the line. This is a wonderful idea, and if it's not too late, I would love to be a part of something so beautiful and that will be given to provide warmth to those in need.

I'm not exactly comfortable with putting my email address in the comments, so I will email you with it.

I would like to do a pink/orange block.

Thanks. :~)

Marit said...

I'm in. I'll make a blue and green block. Look forward to participate. I could have written your post (exept my english is more clumsy) or in other words I can identify with your preferences.
; )

Julie Nolte Owen said...

I'm in. This will be my first quilting project, so I'm a beginner. I received the Denyse Schmidt book for Christmas, and love it! I wonder if I can begin with improv? Blue/Green is my block for the charity portion.

Mary Johnson said...

Sounds like a fun project, I finished up a log cabin quilt from leftover strips and strings in December - it's not TOO wonky but it was fun to just pull different size strips from the string bins and piece. I'm getting ready to start some more blocks soon as my string bins are overflowing. Good luck with your project.

Dayna said...

I'm a newbie...We all have to start somewhere I guess. I will send an orange/pink block.12.5 inches square. I won't feel at all slighted if it gets left out if it isn't up to standards. Just let me know what I could do better the next time around.

Marilyn said...

Hi, Jacquie - I just read about your project on another blog and would love to donate a block if there is still room. If so, I will make a red/aqua block...Thanks! Marilyn:)

Kristin Shields said...

Sounds like great fun! I'll do a block, but don't know which color just yet. I may be able to do more than one. I'm doing mostly improvisational quilts right now and it's the best way to work. Definitely keeps you motivated. I'm hoping to be in a Gwen Marston class this summer, but I'm also studying the Gee's Bend quilts right now. I've been a big fan of Tonya for a long time. I also was discouraged by the Denise Schmidt patterns. I can't imagine anyone actually doing a quilt that way. Crazy!

shields@oldshoepress.com

Heather said...

I've only made one baby quilt, but am inspired. I'd love to try. Please put me down for pink/orange charity quilt block. Thank you for organizing.

Anonymous said...

Have you looked at the book Collaborative Quilting by Freddie Moran? She is a great person for "piecing outside the box" Her saying is Red is a neutral color!

Carol E. said...

I am in! At least I think so. For an ADD person like me, your blog had a lot of words. :-)
I will definitely produce a charity quilt block and would be very willing to help put quilt(s) together.
I already forgot. Was pink/orange an option? That's what I'll do.

sewtakeahike said...

this is such a fabulous idea! I cannot WAIT to see where this goes for you Jacquie. So can I still join in? If so, I'd like to do the orange/pink combo. I'm a little unclear on what we are supposed to do as participants? Make a block and send to you of the color combos we chose and then make a quilt for charity?

Cher said...

I am totally in! red and aqua for me
I have been doing improv quilts here and there and see lots more coming-and I make a lot of charity quilts for wraptheminlove- glad Tonya linked to your blog and I can join the fun...as usual I am running late on the blog reading!

susan in france said...

are you still taking names? I've so been wanting to do this too and need the push of a group. No local crafters here--only super traditional quilters! Let me know--any color but pink/orange would be my pick.

Unknown said...

Is it too late? I understand if it is. I would like to participate with a blue/green block if possible.

Anonymous said...

I'm in...this is way outside of my comfort zone, but I really, really want to try it! I love red and aqua so I choose that for my charity block.

Ritapizza said...

awesome idea! I suddenly saw all these "project improv" blocks on flickr and I want in! I can make blue/green blocks and I can help in any way to put together the quilts.

Anonymous said...

I'm in! fabricpile (at) gmail . com

Julie said...

Too late to join? I hope not. Please count me in — you can reach me at julie@alittlepregnant.com. Thanks.

Anonymous said...

I have to say, I am so impressed! Look at what you have started! All these stitches, all this love, from people all over the place. I have always wanted to be more improv-ish with my quilting, so, if you are still willing to accept one more, I would be honored to make a red and aqua block.

pocketofstones {at} gmail {dot} com

byneedleandthread said...

Hi Jacquie,

This sounds wonderful! I'm in. i'm byneedleandthread on flickr. I contacted you yesterday. sign me up for pink/orange.

Cheryl said...

I'm in and can't wait. Put me down for blue/green for the charity blocks. cgulvin at hotmail dot com

Anonymous said...

I'm in, blue and green are my colors........

Marsha

bbean33@bellsouth.net

Busy Little Quilter said...

I would like to join! I have been wanting to try some improv quilting, too.


If you have too many people, I understand. You can let me know. I'll do whatever colors you need.

jenifer said...

ok. ok. i KNOW i've taken too long to join this... i'm not a real "join in" person (i prefer to stalk quietly)... but, this is too fun. I would REALLY like to join if there is still room. I would be happy to finish a quilt... I'd pick red/aqua first choice and blue/green second. THANKS!!
toddnjenifer@sbcglobal.net

Kathy - Pink Chalk Studio said...

Great idea! I'm looking forward to the inspiration that's sure to be found by participating.

Orange/pink for me. I'd love to donate fabric for backing and bindings, we can talk more about how many :) I have a feeling you're going to end up with quite a few quilts!

connie said...

OK, I think I would like to do this. I am very new but this is so intriguing. I would like you to take a look at my blog and see if you think I would do an OK job. I am good at not following the rules :-) but I am very new to all of this. m_csayler@verizon.net

Caron said...

Sounds like fun! Off to dig in my stash.

Anonymous said...

I'm in! This is such a great idea! I'll do the pink/orange group. Thanks so much for organizing everything!

katy.kidwell@gmail.com

Kerri said...

i'd love to join in if it's not too late!! count me in on the red and aqua block quilt.

Chelsea said...

Count me in for blue/green

cowalsh @ gmail dot com

rdrop said...

Wow sounds like a lot of fun I want in! I'll pick blue/green ^_^

email - melodys23 at gmail dot com

I would be interested in charity quilts ^_^

chq said...

I'm in, in spirit - does that count for anything? I loved your post, and appreciate the sentiment! I think improve quilts, are akin to improve music, improve comedy, etc, there is a certain skill set that has to do with letting go, being more carefree, etc.

Good luck with your venture, and I can't wait to see where you go with this!

Cherri

Venus de Hilo said...

The "improv" challenge is just the right nudge for me -- I've been dreaming of a reason to tackle wonky/wacky LC squares. I'll contribute a blue-green block, hope to do a orange-pink as well. Wish I could lend a hand with assembly/etc., but finding time for the blocks is as much of a challenge as I can undertake (haven't even managed a blog post yet this year!)
Venusdehilo"at"yahoo"dot"com

Indigo Blue said...

Hi,
I hope I am not too late to be 'I'm in'. I have made one log cabin quilt and just cut up some fabric to make my next one so I am not an expert! I live in the UK but happy to send block. So I would like to do a pink and orange one as I have never used these two colours together. Great idea too! I am off to re-rread the rules, I may need to make notes.
xx

Indigo Blue said...

Opps, sorry forgot the email bit
acmilli@hotmail.co.uk
Thanks again.refuleti

Britt said...

I'm in! It sounds like good fun. Blue/green for my donation block and I can help with quilting the resulting quilts.

Anonymous said...

I know I'm late to the game but I'd love to be in too! I can make a blue/green charity block :)

ljs742 AT yahoo DOT com

Cynthia said...

I would love to do this. I think aqua and red would be a good challenge for me. Do you need more?

Staci K. said...

I would love to join in! I will work in the pink/orange color scheme.

staci_kirkland at yahoo DOT com

Jill said...

I'm in! I love this kind of quilting too. I'll participate in the red/aqua quilt. Can't wait to see these quilts when they're finished!

jillkdimassimo@aol.com

Kerry said...

Count me in. It took some time to think about it considering I'm new to quilting...but I'm up for the challenge. I actually just completed one today - posted on my blog. I think I will do the green/blue.
kerrycase@gmail.com

Becky J. said...

i love this. i have already started a row quilt with the name of "cranky" or "liberated" can't decide. no real pattern. just a lot of wacking and sewing. boy is it fun!!! we should all do a book together :)
whosiesandwhatnots(at)yahoo(dot)com

Codi said...

if its not too late id love to join. i just found your blog too, and i love all the stuff youve been doing. if i'm in id like to do the pink orange block, my email is codiandtim@gmail.com

Millie said...

Count me in - blue/green block Thanks!

fmkriel@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

I would love to be part of your project. My email is idoru@popstar.com. I would love to make a blue/green block(s) for the charity quilt.

tepee said...

I'm in. I will do the block in pink and orange. I will need the address to mail it in. I don't want to post my email address here. Can I mail it to you directly?
tepee

Karen, aka Yaya said...

Is it too late to join?? If not, I would like to join.
I'd like to do a blue/green square.

kpscarlett at gmail (dot) com

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Karen

Unknown said...

As if serendipity isn't alive and well!!! You posted this on my birthday, the day I decided to write a book on this very subject, and the day I found a partner who also creates improv quilts, AND who also shares Jan 5th as a birthday! I'm in! Visit my blog, take a look at my stuff, and contact me if you want a hand in this project! Cheers! Robin - simplyrobin.blogspot.com

PurplePickle said...

I will make a block 4 you. I will use red and aqua. My email is moondancer248@yahoo.com.
Mary C.

C. Jaeger said...

I'm in if you are still taking participants. My email address is ckjaeger@charter.net and my blog is www.thedistractedcrafter.blogspot.com
I was able to take Denyse Schmidt's Improvisational Quilting class almost 2 years ago. I can barely make it to Walmart with my list in hand, so I still can't believe I actually got to have this amazing experience. It was so worth every effort to do it, and I hope that you can take one of her classes sometime.
I could make a blue/green block or a pink/orange block. Let me know if you need a particular color. To which address do I send the completed block?
Thanks!
Cheryl

Anonymous said...

Love it. I'm all over the pink/orange.

metrosupialdesigns@yahoo.com

Margaret McDonald said...

what a great idea. I'm in! I'm a blue/green kinda quilter.
Maggie
mhanni1045@rogers.com

aSprinkling said...

I'd like to get in. I've actually already started a quilt partially based on your wonky log cabin tutorial. Honestly, I'd like to join up to get some support for this style. I'm not so sure that the non-quilters around me will appreciate the style as much. I think I'll probably go with the blue/green option on the charity block. Unfortunately, I won't be able to help put the charity quilts together. I've got a baby due in about a month and a half, so there's just no time on the schedule! :)

Patty said...

I've been reading other quilt bloggers who are participating in the improv and thought I would join in on the fun!
I love pink and orange, and will send my block in soon :-)

Talk-n-tidbits said...

Count me in though I have never heard of this type of quilting before. I will do black/white and my e-mail is jkmartin55@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I've been wanting to try this. I'm in for the blue/green colorway. transeau@sbcglobal.net

PaigeAlaine said...

I'm in!!! I just finished a liberated log cabin inspired by Gwen Marston...I had to challenge myself to not do right corners -boy was that difficult but I'm continually drawn to Denyse Schmidt & Gwen's designs! Your Square Motion quilt is beautiful.
Anyway, I'd love to do an orange/pink block and am interested in helping work on the charity quilts -I'm a longarm quilter if that helps.
paigealaine@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I'm in - wonderful idea!

Anonymous said...

I hope everyone is having as much fun making these blocks as I am.

Unknown said...

Can I play, too??

Anonymous said...

I had a really great time designing my blocks. I learned some stuff, too. I hope everyone else is having fun, too.

Anonymous said...

I'm in. Green and blue, please.
gretchenfisher@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

Welcome to the group,Gretchen.
Mary

Samantha said...

am I too late? This is JUST what I need for a new year kick start. I've gotten myself trapped in fabric lines and patterns- and that is fun- but I want to ask more of myself.

If I'm in- orange/pink please!
madfabriholic at gmail dot com

ayumills said...

Wow! This sounds like a big project that will benefit many people. I'd love to join in, if it's not too late. I'd love to do orange/pink.
Thanks for giving us opportunities for us to work on such a fun project, Jackie!

Krista said...

i'm in. I'll do a blue/green block. My email is ktorseth@gmail.com

Cäcilia said...

I am in. Iam doing a red/aqua block.

Unknown said...

my e-mail: pjwould@gmail.com

thank you!

i'll do any color combo you want, blue/green or orange/pink.

Kat said...

I'm in, I'll make a pink/orange block, my new favorite color combo!

Kat said...

Oops, k.leezer@gmail.com.

Anonymous said...

I am in! Aqua and red.

szolondek@cox.net

-Sharon

dancingyogini said...

Can i still join in? i may just make the charity block but i'll give it a shot.
spack2@hotmail.com

Thriftin and Craftin said...

Hey Miss Jacquie-

I'm still around, just trying to breathe with life being a little nuts. The only kind of quilting I seem to enjoy is the style of which you speak. I'd love to join you. I'll do my very best to finish the block. Please send me the info. Thanks for starting this. Sounds great!

Sheree said...

Please count me in! I am so excited about this. I have only made a few quilts and all have been "made up/improv". I am not one for blocks even. So this should be super fun for me!

Thanks for organizing this.

Sheree (sheree(at)shereesalchemy(dot)com

Renae said...

I'm game to try something new. At this point I've never done a log cabin or cabin-ish square.

blue/green choice for me on the charity quilt

erklimes@juno.com

Iva said...

Count me in. I so need to step away from the "stay within the lines; lines are our friends" mentality and discover whether or not I have any creative talent.

For the charity block: red/teal.

Thanks!

chermonblie said...

I'm in - amory@creativecatalogs.com
I'll do orange/pink :)

Anonymous said...

I would like to participate. I need serious help "playing outside the box". I am such a rule follower; maybe this will help me move into a direction that "calls" me but I've been afraid to listen.

I'll do blue/green for the charity block.

rky_mtn@hotmail.com

susie said...

I do hope I'm not too late. If not, I'm in!

Orange/pink will be my charity block.

Anonymous said...

hi---as susie said---if it's not too late, im in---must we limit the block to 2 colors or can we use a combination of some sort---this sounds like happy fun for a good cause!!!
my e-mail is: brownhenquilts@verizon.net
thanks so much for putting this together---susey

Lindsey said...

Hi Jacquie!
I'm finished with my block and ready to send it to you... I'm sure the address is here but I'm lost! Please give me the address for this block and I'll send it straight away! Great idea...very successful project....good for you.

Millie said...

I just finished 4 donation blocks in the green/blue group. And it was so much fun to make these free-form blocks. I posted pictures on my blog. Where do you like me to mail these blocks. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Hi, am I too late? Can I still be in? I just stumbled across your blog this weekend and love your work, beautiful! My email is nflitter@bigpond.net.au thanks so much, look forward to hearing from you, love Nova x

Michaela said...

OK Jacquie, I am finally joining as well. When I first read about this project on your post. It was in time when I had no idea when I will be able to get even close to the sewing machine. I really liked the idea, but didn't want to commit to something I wouldn't be able to do. Well, fortunately I did find my way back to the sewing and I am almost finished with my first improv - like quilt.
I would like to create some blocks for charity quilts in shades of pink and orange. I will go through my stash to find some good backing fabrics.

Leah Hill Empowerment Coaching said...

"I'm in!" Thrilled to be a part of Project Improv ;) leah@leahhillcoaching.com

Autumn said...

I'm in.....red/aqua will be fun....contact me at jedigirlz@msn.com

Annie B said...

Brilliant Idea...would love to join in, if not too late

email is overmilkwood@gmail.com

Annie X

PamB said...

Jacquie,

The quilts look grea. I've just mailed my blocks for the red and aqua group. I must say breaking out of the traditional mind set is more difficult then I thought but a lot of fun.

Pam

Anonymous said...

Sounds fun - I can certainly do one block!
sdsup@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Hello,just found out about this (I know, where have I been?)Anyway would love to join if its not tooo late. I'll do any color(s) you need,and I can also do several blocks if needed...Just let me know.

mcrockettmaples@sbcglobal.net

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