Quilting, Or How to Overcome a Crushing Sense of Inadequacy

In the summer, I usually do some kind of home improvement. This summer it was supposed to be my kitchen floors, but that didn’t happen. Grr. 

But now it’s almost autumn, and in the fall I usually try and another kind of project—something creative and useful.  So I decided to make a quilt, one I could use in my office when I write. I wanted to use a tattered wool blanket that I love as batting. (It’s tattered because I ripped it in my sleep. Don’t ask how. I don’t know. But sometimes when I’m asleep I grab hold of the bedding and tear it.) Anyway, I wasn’t too worried about making the quilt. I’ve made quilts before. Although it was years ago, when my twenty-year olds were babies. But quilting is quilting. Right?

An idea formed in my head and I Googled. Big mistake. Quilting has gone from a by-gone era curiosity to an art form. Quilts range from gorgeous colors and stitches with movement and gravitas to playful, even humorous whimsies.

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia

For a moment, I had the crushing sense of inadequacy. I don’t have the time or the ability to even attempt these creations. But then, I reminded myself that I don’t have to. A quilt, at its base, is a functional piece. It’s warmth and love in fabric and stitches. And I can do that. So stay tuned. I’ll post updates. First on my list, coupons. Nothing is happens until I can take some great coupons to the fabric store.