No, that’s not a test score. If it were, I would have failed the exam. The title of the post refers to the fact I have completed 12 of the 20 blocks needed for my current WIP (work-in-progress) based on the pattern Dandelions at Dusk by Blue Bear Quilts.

I’m having fun with this one! Take a look at my first 12 blocks:

Aren’t they pretty?

There are several elements that add to the interest of the blocks. First and foremost are the four-patch kaleido units themselves since each one is unique. The pattern is designed in such a way that these units appear in different corners of the blocks, essentially rotating around each other. In my view it allows each floral unit to stand out and really shine.

The two sashing fabrics are also an important part of the design. (Sorry to say this photo, taken in late afternoon in a room with north-facing windows, doesn’t show the medium and medium-dark cornflower blue prints in a consistent light.)

I’d be making faster progress if I were more organized in my approach to cutting and sewing. Some quilters cut all of their fabrics first so that every block is ready to be sewn together from the get-go. Alas, I am not one of those quilters. I usually cut just enough of the fabrics to make a few blocks at a time. It’s all about instant gratification. A bit silly, really, but I’ve always been that way. Even back in the days (make that decades) when I made most of my own clothing, it would take me longer to make something because I would literally be trying the garment on every step of the way.

There’s something else going on with this quilt. The background fabric is directional:

Can you see the very subtle herringbone design? It has to be cut and sewn in two different ways for the design to be in the correct position in each block. One really has to pay attention! I confess there has been some “unsewing” and “corrective sewing” going on.

My twin Diane arrived last week for a four-week visit. I had texted her a couple of weeks ago to see if she could come out in March for a week. She replied, “I can come next week and stay for a month.” Oh joy! Today she vacuumed the main floor of the house and mopped the kitchen floor so I could hie to my sewing room and finish the 12th block. I may not let her go home.