Becky Crafts

I am in a pickle here... I'm doing a panel quilt for MIL. Top is family of owls (she collects) and back is all-over owl print. The problem is the back wasn't big enough so had to make a frame. DH insisted on lt eggshell color (which I hate), but the top panel goes past where the frame starts and will be ugly on back. I've done a white running stitch around where the frame starts & intend to sew only top to batting in that area so I don't mess up the back. My question is...should I sew the outer frame parts first or start as usual in the center and hope I can get to the edges of the frame?? I want to start working on it, but am afraid of doing the wrong thing. Any advice??

May in Jersey

Some photos of your project and fabrics would be helpful to get an idea of what you can do.

Becky Crafts

Sorry the pics aren't better. Very small area. The sticks around the owls are where it goes over the edge of the frame on the backing. Thank you!

sueisallaboutquilts

Becky, I'm not exactly sure what to tell you about quilting b/c I am still a beginner with MQ but I'm in agreement with you about the frame. It's just too stark to me.
You have some great colors in the top- can't you pull some of those for the frame??
No offense intended at all!!

Becky Crafts

No...my DH chose for his mom & is adament. I have to deal with it. Perhaps I worded this badly. I need to know which area to sew first, the outer area where the stick frame passes the back framing or just start from the center & hope I can do just the top and batting when I get to the frame area after the rest is stitched down.

sueisallaboutquilts

You're a good sport, Becky. I guess since it's his mom he has a say, right?? I hope I didn't offend you- didn't realize it was not to be changed :D

Becky Crafts

No offense taken. I was thinking a lighter brown would look better myself and would alleviate some of my stress, but he wouldn't allow it and she'll love it because her son chose it, so unfortunately, I can't change it.

isnthatodd

I would start in the center and work out, but I'm a beginner. Maybe some of the more experienced quilters will jump in here.

Murphy

Start in the center and work out. It will be beautiful and she will love it.

kathy

i'm not real clear on the problem, you don't want the stitching to show in the frame on the back?