I have just made my first block sample for the Baltimore Album Plain and Fancy blocks. in a recent episode of Sewing in Slippers with Sue, I gave you a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m designing the blocks for this project which starts in January.
I know I’m not an expert on Baltimore Album quilts, but my methods lean toward the traditional elements like those found in Baltimore quilts. Still, I struggle a bit with imposter syndrome, because when I think of Baltimore quilts, I think of Elly Sinekiewicz! She is the true expert on the history and making of Baltimore Album quilts by hand!
I appreciate the artistry found in the traditional hand-appliqued Baltimore Album quilts. As part of my design process, I’m doing my homework on these quilts. Elly is partially responsible for the resurgence in popularity of the Baltimore Album quilt over the past few decades. Her books are filled with amazing examples of this beautiful art form, but every tiny stitch is done by hand! OH NO!! Who am I to be making a Baltimore Album quilt when my quilts are more modern? Here comes that imposter syndrome again…
Let’s be clear, I know I’m not Elly and I do not claim to be. I’ve never made a hand-appliqued Baltimore quilt and I never will. My focus has always been on making things easier for myself and for other quilters. So, I’m more interested in interpreting this style and bringing it into my world of fusible applique with a more modern twist, not recreating a traditional Baltimore Album.
Back to the books. Finally, I did find a small mention in one of Elly’s books “Baltimore Elegance” from 2006 that talked about the fusible applique process. She refers to a quilt made with these modern methods and she actually gives this method and the quilt a half page in her book. PHEW! Now I feel like I can proceed with Elly’s blessing. So here I go! I’ll be starting the Block Lessons for “Almost in Baltimore”, Plain and Fancy Baltimore Blocks by Machine in January for members of AOC. I see a future pattern or book….maybe in 2024!
To see the latest episode of Sewing in Slippers with Sue on my YouTube Channel, Click HERE.
I’m 56 and been going to Title Boxing for a few years now. Could never get into going to the gym, but somehow this works for me.
I also love appliqué- all kinds and have a lot of your templates.
Hey Christine! I couldn’t agree more. Ive never been a gym lover, but i really enjoy boxing! Glad you are using the tools! I so enjoy applique and love converting people to Rotary cut Applique!
Just checking to see if I could master the Hearts and More Tools…. Still trying!
Jean
There are so many ways to use these tools Jean! Just take one shape at a time. Just for circles, these tools are wonderful! Then there is so much more to learn. Keep practicing, you will get it!