doll quilt swap 10

Not long ago, I sent out a small mariner's compass quilt for doll quilt swap 10. Until a few months ago, I wasn't quite sure why people made and collected these "doll quilts" which are in fact a bit bigger than most dolls. 12-24". Regardless, I entered two swaps because I realized they would be a great way to try something new and small and improve my patchwork, quilting and binding skills. When I join these things, I rarely think about what I might get back. I'm generally more enthuiastic about sending.

In fact, I don't put much thought at all into what I might receive. So when this package arrived and I was gobsmacked.



First this little 6" quilt fell into my hands. If that was the only thing in the parcel, I would have been over the moon. Four perfect little spools using Liberty and vintage. The details were astounding. When I looked closely, I saw that someone had chosen just the perfect Lecien for the spool tops and the rulers were just dreamy.

Someone? Someone? Suddenly, I dropped the quilt and realized I needed to find out straight away who made this little gem. Eek. That someone extra creative is Alexia Abegg of Craftopia and Green Bee Patterns. If her name doesn't sound familiar, her work and her face might. Alexia helps with sample sewing and trunk shows for Anna Maria Horner. And she's the gorgeous model of the Roundabout Dress.

As it turns out, the mini quilt was only a preview. Also in the envelope was this amazing quilt made of tiny little Liberty flying geese. I know how long it takes to make those little triangles. Alexia's generosity with her time wowed me and the rest of the girls in the shop the day I opened it.


A few detail shots:




Can you tell that I'm smitten? Truly I would have been happy with just one of these quilts, but Alexia's generosity didn't stop there. She included some linen trim and a copy of her Vera bag pattern. I've already cut some Echino to make my version of the bag. I should be able to finish it this weekend. It looks like a well-written pattern and it's been easy to read and follow. Hopefully I'll have some results for you soon.



And there were even tons of teeny tiny microprint fabrics perfect for sewing miniature quilts. I was lucky indeed.

And now, I completely get it. I understand why people collect doll quilts. I understand why they make them. These are going straight above my sewing space for daily inspiration. It's really not nice to brag about what you've received, but I know I was the luckiest girl in the whole swap. Thank you so much, Alexia.