Wordsmith Quilt

After finishing the top more than a year ago I finally got it loaded on the longarm. It became a bit of an experimental piece, as I wanted to explore my free-motion skills. I knew I wanted something organic (as opposed to linear and structured) so starting with the outer border I chose a simple floral and leaf motif.  For the inner border I started with a spiral-type floral motif, but decided I didn't love it.  So I changed it about 1/3 of the way through the quilt; and that's okay. Really, who's going to look that closely at my quilting?  For the inner squares I treated it as all one big area with a meandering vine and floral motif.

Fabric: "Wordsmith" series by Moda

Pattern: "Best Dressed Quilt" by Doug Leko (www.antlerquiltdesign.com)
Finished Size: 68" x 86" (slightly smaller than a twin size quilt)

I used a light thread on top, though in hindsight something darker would have been nice. I used a midnight blue on the back (to match the fabric) and it, too, probably should have been something different to be more noticeable. I'm sure I'll get better at these decisions the more I longarm. For the most part, I managed my tension well, though I could have loosened the top a little more. But it's all good; I have a finished quilt that I love.

Materials Cost:
Moda fabric runs about $11/yd
Top (Main) - 2 Jelly Rolls = $78.00 ($39/ea)
Sashing 1-5/8 yd = $17.71
Inner border and cornerstones 1 yd = $10.90
Outer Border 2 yds = $21.20
Binding 1 yd = $10.90
Backing 4 yd = $43.60
Batting = $20.00

Total = $202.31 (not including labor)