While promoting my book at Quilt Market (more on that later!), I naturally spent a whole lot of time walking the aisles, overwhelmed by so many fresh beautiful designs, products, and fabrics. One booth that particularly caught my eye was that of Akonye Kena, a company selling hand-dyed fabrics from Uganda. As if their rich, earthy hues weren’t intriguing enough, these fabrics are supporting the good cause of self-sufficiency among the individuals who dye them. Of course, I couldn’t resist purchasing a a fairly impressive sampling. And though my sewing has mainly been focused on an ever-growing list of commissions, I’ve been taking breaks to enjoy them.
With fabrics like these, I’ve been trying to find the balance between designs that are fun but simple enough to let the colors take center stage. This quilt reminds me of a stone walkway, sort of kinetic and structured at the same time.
Then there are the pillows. For the first one, I went for a simple patchwork set along the diagonal.
And finally, a basic square grid with the occasionally slanted square.
Intrigued? You should read the story behind these beauties; it’s really neat. I should also mention that these fabrics are nice and soft, like a slightly thicker shot cotton. I’m so glad to have stumbled upon them and hope I can find a way acquire more (though I still have a hefty stash to work through). That’s one of the things I love about the world of quilt making: just when you think you’ve seen and thought of it all, inspiration pops up out of nowhere.
I really like the fun colors and using them in the crazy quilt and pillows.
Debbie