Last week was the release of the Sewcialites Sew Along Block #33, which was a sewing machine. It was cute I suppose, but to me, it didn't fit in very well with the other blocks. So I decided to substitute in something else that I felt was more in keeping with the style of the other blocks. It was super easy. Nothing but 1 1/2" finished half square triangles (2" unfinished). My block is 6" finished.
I did not make this block in the photo above. This block #33 was on the Fat Quarter Shop blog Jolly Jabber and was made by "Sue". Not by me. It is adorable, just not for me in this quilt.
The block I did substitute in is called "Whirlpool" and is from the Comfort and Blessings Sew Along sponsored by Pieces from the Past last year. Here it is in my finished quilt block from that fun project.
I have made it a habit to always save the block patterns from sew-alongs I have participated in. You would be surprised how often the occasion arises when you want to switch out a block or need an idea for a block for a project. Those previously made blocks really do come in handy!
Thanks so much for all your kind words yesterday. I really appreciate it. I know I am not the only person who has had a lot on their plate over the past year and a half. There is nothing unique about my situation, and in fact, I realize I am far more fortunate than many others. Still, it has been hard! And so nice of you all to extend your kind thoughts and prayers.
My best wishes for your husband's recovery and to your family to be able to be at home together.
Posted by: Bonnie | June 02, 2021 at 04:55 AM
Great idea...I was in the same place. Thanks for the suggestion!
Posted by: Linda B | June 02, 2021 at 05:14 AM
I agree about the sewing machine. I, too, save block patterns from previous QALs. I recently decided to enlarge a quilt from 9 to 12 blocks and those patterns came in very handy! I'm actually starting Comfort & Blessings this month. If you have any hints let me know!
Posted by: sue s | June 02, 2021 at 06:28 AM
The Whirlpool block is new to me & I like it! That's a great choice to substitute for the sewing machine. Hope you're having a quiet week with time to do a little for yourself.
Posted by: Jan | June 02, 2021 at 07:20 AM
That was a good plan IMHO. I like your block a lot. Hope things are going OK at your house. My thoughts and prayers are being sent your way.
Mary
Posted by: Mary Kastner | June 02, 2021 at 08:09 AM
Prayers for your husband and you. I also pray your dad will continue in good health. Hugs
Posted by: Debbie Martin | June 02, 2021 at 08:13 AM
I just read your previous entry to see what you were talking about. I knew about your dad but not about your husband. Prayers and blessings your way! You need them! I do hope the treatments do the trick and he can recover peacefully at home this summer. Cancer is such a fear for us all. But modern treatments are so effective. I do hope you get those large blocks of sewing time your desire. I love your blog and am so grateful you take the time to communicate with us all.
Posted by: Carol in Texas | June 02, 2021 at 09:49 AM
oh, I love what you are substituting in place of the sewing machine. Much better fit. the weather is so much cooler today. hallelujah. ;p
Posted by: Ina | June 02, 2021 at 10:08 AM
Nicole, I should have commented yesterday but my day got away from me. I wanted you to know that I am in awe of what you are juggling and dealing with. Please know, that I am keeping you and your husband in my thought and prayers and hoping for a full and complete recovery for him. In everything you are dealing with and going through, you have never shown a bit of feeling down or "woe is me"... being a caregiver is a tough job and often, the caregiver ends up needing some TLC themselves. Please do take care of yourself!!
Posted by: Patty Fowl | June 02, 2021 at 11:47 AM
I have been waiting for the sewing machine block to show up and I felt the same way as you. It doesn't really belong but it was what caught my eye in the quilt. Now I'm not sure if I would keep it in or not.
Posted by: Anita | June 02, 2021 at 01:37 PM
Nicole, this last winter when I needed help, a wise older friend told me the just because other people are also going through tough situations doesn't make our own situation any less difficult, and that we shouldn't feel guilty about feeling overwhelmed.
Thank you for feeling that you could share that with us. Sending love and strength.
Posted by: Terena | June 02, 2021 at 08:05 PM
Although the sewing machine block is very cute I do agree the Whirlpool block that you substituted is more appropriate for the quilt you are making ~ great choice /great work ~ love the color! I hope that you enjoy a peaceful/restful summer with lots of relaxing sewing & quilting! My best wishes for a successful treatment & speedy recovery to your husband!
Posted by: Penny Holliday | June 03, 2021 at 07:00 PM