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| Spring On Bleecker Street Quilt |
We all understand that feeling when the seasons change, as quilters. The heavy flannels and dark winter fabrics are packed away and our cutting tables are begging for fresh and cheerful pastels. So if you're searching for a project that's a wonderful representation of that fresh, happy sense of new life, I have the perfect quilt for you: the Spring on Bleecker Street quilt. This free pattern from Quilting Treasures by the wonderfully talented Wendy Sheppard is a spring love letter.
The dimensions are versatile at 64” x 68” long, perfect to throw or make a beautiful seasonal wall hanging to spice up your home. The beauty of this design is that it conveys a story through various parts. Wendy doesn't repeat the same block throughout the top, but guides us instead on a visual stroll down a cozy, imaginary neighborhood street.
The pattern is divided into smaller, easier-to-solve sections, making the sewing process very interesting. The first step is to piece a house surrounded by two different kinds of sweet tree blocks. A vertical column of classic Shoofly units (a traditional 9-patch block with half square triangle corners) rounds out the scene and ties it back to our quilting heritage.
The magic really begins in the next area, however. At this point, you'll be able to dabble in fusible appliqué (heat activated adhesive web) to make a beautiful floral wreath and an absolutely cute bunny unit (with a few stitched flower details). The sun is even embellished with a miniscule, hand embroidered piece in embroidery floss in the sky. This balance of crisp piecing, soft appliqué and delicate hand stitching helps produce a quilt that feels heirloom or custom designed.
Let's take a quick look at what you can expect before you start chopping into your stash:
- Finished Size: 64” x 68”
- Designer: Wendy Sheppard
- Basic embroidery, traditional piecing and fusible appliqué techniques.
- The house, whimsical trees, shoofly rows, appliqué wreath and sweet spring bunny are all featured elements.
It's an amazing weekend craft, whether you make it out of fine very fine florals and branchy calicos or find a way to make it all unique from your scrap bins. It is written in a manner that would make even an advanced beginner, wanting to try applique for the first time, feel at home. Pick up your rotary cutter, insert a new blade, and let's start cutting and sewing!
