Along with doing the declutter challenge in January I decided it was time to bind a few quilts that have been “waiting”. Waiting for what, I’m not sure. Anyway, these were made and even quilted a while ago–not saying how long–but finally getting them bound makes them the first finishes of 2026.
Besties I and Besties II were made from a Villa Rosa pattern called “Besties”.
My first idea was to use one of those landscape fabrics and make the squares as windows.
I was thinking of using this to teach beginning quilting. However, after making the quilts I decided the design wouldn’t work for beginning quilters. It’s easy enough, for sure, but beginners typically have a terrible time choosing fabric (OK they may not be the only ones) and I thought picking an effective focus fabric for the block centers might be too much pressure. So these are going off to Ronald McDonald House the next time my friend delivers a load of quilts.
This focus fabric was more successful, but I still thought having to choose it would make students anxious
This was a quick and easy pattern, so I do recommend it if you have a focus fabric you want to use.
Zippy Quilts 
Waiting for Godot?
Good for you on binding these charming quilts
Yes, waiting for sure. I never understood Godot, but then…
Me neither. Don’t think anyone does 😂
YaY! Projects from the past – now first finishes of the year – that still teach the teacher! 🙂
I relate to your ‘teaching’ thought process, Zippy. Teaching a basic technique whether to beginners or advanced students involves taking other ‘distractions’ into consideration and minimizing them. Then after a ‘success’ or two, student eagerness-energy is ready to be used for further instruction/exploration!
Thanks, Laura. Good to hear from you!
Congratulations on the finishes. I see what you mean about the choosing fabric but then I have seen some disastrous fabric choices for other beginner quilts (including my own). Perhaps beginner quilt classes should come with a short session a week or two before they start on choosing fabric and then everyone comes to the class better prepared