Adding to the Conversation

Our Quilty Improv Group explored another chapter in Ms Sherry Lynn Wood‘s new book. This month, the third Score, “Yes, and,” challenges us to an improvisational round robin conversation. The idea is to listen to what is presented (be it starting fabric or patchwork passed), to affirm and then respond in the moment. Well, within 20 minutes, that is.

Centered, ready at our sewing machines with our chosen fabrics, we begin. Truth be told, I pulled my fabrics just minutes before everyone arrived. I did plan my signature as this little tiger print in teal, orange, lime and pink, that I’m using for another BAMalot “yes, and” group. The rest of my fabrics are similar color scraps: pink/orange strips, partial fuchsia blocks and orphan blocks, including my first 2 Tula City Sampler blocks before I changed up my fabric scheme.

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Honing my Improv Instincts

Improv Sewing is a fabulously relaxing way to spend a Sunday! During today’s workshop, Improvising from a Score with Sherry Lynn Wood, we start the process with a centering meditation breathing deeply in and back out. My thoughts drift away as words are spoken and when I open my eyes again, my fabric choices are shiny and bright. Although I brought just a few options, my first three fabrics call clearly to me.  Once again, I’m reminded to trust my initial instincts.

When starting improvisational sewing projects, knowing where to start can be a hurdle for my creativity. For this session, we are using the first Score: Floating Squares. I’ve made my fabric choices and began to cut various sized squares from two fabrics, leaving the third as filler.
2015OctSLWScore3My process is simple: choose two squares, sew together, then choose the next square and add the filler so that it fits the first two squares (if needed) and sew together. Turn clockwise and continue the process. Yes, I started with a ‘log cabin’ mindset and while it seems like a static idea, it actually freed me from over-thinking what fabric to add next. It also doesn’t look particularly like a ‘log cabin,’ so I’m pleased with my first block.

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