Lost in a Modern Maze

Last summer when I was dealing with Vestibular Neuritis (think really bad vertigo), everything was out of sorts.  I couldn't drive, I couldn't quilt, I couldn't work on the computer and I definitely couldn't ice skate.

Once my brain started to adapt to the loss of the nerve, I began thinking about new quilting ideas.  I tend to like a lot of piecing in a quilt.  But during this time in my life, I also needed a chance for my brain to rest a bit, so I knew I wanted more negative space than I am typically use to working with.  I began playing with ideas for a modern quilt.  

So what is a modern quilt?  According to the Modern Quilt Guilt, "We define modern quilts as quilts that are functional, include bold colors, and are inspired by modern design. Minimalism, asymmetry, expansive negative space, and alternate grid work are often a part of modern quilt compositions, as are improvisational piecing and solid fabrics."

Fabric Selection - I liked the idea of asymmetrical, along negative space, and grid work.  I couldn't quite make the leap to solid fabrics.  But I had some Molly B's fabric from Marcus Brothers that is more tonal in nature and would work for me.  I am personally in my "zone" when I can work with a great line of  Civil War fabric.

Drumroll please!!!!  Here is the quilt block and the final quilt.

Modern Maze Lap Quilt - Fabrics are from Molly B's line by Marcus Brothers.

I really liked the cleanness of the final quilt.  One thing I would probably change is the light grey I used for the background.  It looks great in the actual quilt, but I am not sure it photographed quite as well.

The quilt below is another variation of this quilt.  I think changing the layout results in a significantly different look.

Modern Maze Wall Quilt by Kari Schell (Made from a charm pack.)

One of the big decisions you need to make in working with asymmetric blocks is the layout.  There are lots of possibilities to audition.  I find the easiest way to do this is using my Electric Quilt program.

For this weeks video, I decided to share how I used Electric Quilt to audition layout ideas for my Modern Maze quilt.

Featured Quilt - Modern Maze

Hot off the presses, the pattern for Modern Maze is now available for purchase.  For those that collect charm packs, this quilt is charm friendly!

Create your own maze with these asymmetrical blocks.  There are endless rotation possibilities. The quilt may be completed with four fabrics or may be made from scraps.  
Finished sizes includes:

• Wall Hanging (50 x 50)
• Lap (70 x 90)
• Full (80 x 90)
• Queen (100 x 100)

Recommended (optional) Tools:

• Tucker Trimmer 1™

Modern Maze Pattern by Kari Schell

Happy quilting.


Kari 


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