From A - Tinsel Treeskirt

About two days before Christmas last year, I started a tree skirt for my sister-in-law using the Tinsel Treeskirt pattern in Issue 11 of Fat Quarterly. Realizing at the last possible moment that it wasn't going to get done unless someone gave me a time-turner for Christmas, I shoved it into the long-term planning box hoping that I would get it done in time this year.

Sometime last spring, I pulled out the top and basted it using a Marimekko print I picked up from my local Crate & Barrel outlet for about $2.00 a yard for the back. It continued to sit while I thought about how I wanted to quilt it until I saw how Kelsey chose to quilt her camping quilt.

This was my first attempt at free-motion quilting and although I was a bit scared. I had a ton of fun with the freedom it gave me. It really forced me to let go of my perfectionist tendencies and even though it's far from perfect, I really love the effect.

I opted to cut a smaller tree hole than called for in the pattern (only about 3.5") to account for the fact that the intended recipient uses an artificial tree. I used some purple double fold bias binding tape that I found in my stash to bind it and make the ties. Love finding exactly what I need in the stash!

I'm really glad I managed to finish this with more than 2 months spare. Now to tackle the rest of last year's Christmas gift list. Wish me luck!