T-shirt Surprise

I call this quilt a T-shirt surprise because that is what it did for me.  It was a big fun surprise.  I have a friend who has had me make t-shirt quilts for her kids as they graduate.  She brings me t-shirts and has even printed out art work, or graduation announcements on t-shirts.  We look through colors and she picks out the look she is going for, and then I begin the process. 

The reason this is a surprise is because I just start sewing.  No pattern, an idea, which usually changes as I get going, and at the end this is what we get. 

What I love about making these t-shirt quilts is that it doesn't just look like t-shirts and nothing else.  I try to incorporate quilting blocks, fabrics, textures to make this a keepsake treasure.

I have done 2 quilts like this for girls previous, and when I got the opportunity to do a boy version I was so excited.  I had a vision - blues, reds, browns, plaids, stripes etc.  Shelia had another vision - bright greens and blues.  I have to be honest, I was a little worried - I love these colors myself, but its hard to change the version I had in my mind.  The more I sewed the more I fell in love with this quilt.  I think it turned out so bright and fun. 

I wasn't home when Shelia picked it up, so I didn't get to see her expression or hear first hand what she thought of the quilt.  That is always a fear I have - that the customer won't love it.  After reading this post I was thrilled to hear it went over well - and her son said this was the best gift he'd ever gotten!  I'm so happy they like the quilt and that it all ended well for everyone.

There is so much time, effort, and money that goes into a quilt - its so nice when someone who doesn't quilt appreciates and loves the end result. 

It was so much fun to make this quilt - I can't wait to start this tradition with my own kids.  Thanks for the idea Shelia!