Monday, April 9, 2012

modern crosses- a comfort quilt

I finished up the modern crosses quilt I was working on yesterday and delivered it to my aunt, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

modern-crosses

I modified the Modern Crosses pattern in Susan Beal's book Modern Log Cabin Quilting because I needed construction go a bit faster. I pieced each individual block a bit differently at the end, and upped the size to finish out at 13 inches square. The final layout is different as well. But I did start out with the pattern and actually love the original design quite a bit more than what I've done here, and would recommend the book for your quilting library.

modern-crosses-2

I chose the fabrics for their cheer factor. There is some Flea Market Fancy, Good Folks, and various other prints, surrounded by Kona Snow. It's backed with teal pastry line dobby dots voile (from Anna Maria Horner's Little Folks line) and bound with Sweetwater's Authentic stripes. My dear friend Krista saved my sanity and quilted it for me in record time with a great swirl pattern that softens all of the straight lines of the crosses. For the sake of time and durability, I used Pat Sloan's blanket stitch machine binding technique. It creates a stiffer feel, but I found it so much easier than just a straight stitch machine binding. It would have been even easier if I had remembered to sew the binding to the back of the quilt first instead of the front. It's a technique I'll definitely use again.

modern-crosses-3

I'll be honest-- situations like my aunt's make me bitter. Angry, even. I don't think it's fair that parents of young children, people who spend their whole lives being kind and giving to others, people who are really NEEDED here on earth have to go through the emotional and physical toll that cancer brings to them and their families. And meanwhile, the jerks of the world who cause so much misery in people's lives seem to live forever. It sucks, plain and simple. I wish there was an explanation.

Each one of you likely knows someone who has been affected by breast cancer. Previous to this, my experiences have been more removed-- acquaintances through work, relatives of friends, etc. I've always known it would be just a matter of time until the disease would become more close. As I get older, friends will be diagnosed. Possibly other family members. Maybe even me. It's a scary prospect. So let's all remember to be vigilant about our health-- do your monthly self breast exams, see your healthcare provider each year, and get your mammogram if you're over 40 or at a higher risk. And remember that there are a lot of ways to support cancer programs, financially and otherwise. Take a bit of time to research what you can do to help.

For now I will send positivity my aunt's way and hope that this quilt brings a bit of coziness on days when she may need to curl up on the couch and nap. It was a pleasure to make it, and I'm grateful to have the ability to share a bit of comfort in the form of fabric and love.

22 comments:

Amy Friend said...

I understand. I often feel that way too...it's hard to let those angry feelings go. But making the quilt was a good way to focus your energy and I am sure it was appreciated! Your aunt will definitely find comfort in it...and hopefully you found some in its making.

**nicke... said...

i wish i had more of the authentic stripes. i am almost out! love this quilt and i am sure she will cherish it!

Rebecca said...

Your quilt is lovely.

I feel the same way about the unfairness of life. This year, it seems I've had too many friends who have miscarried or have lost babies. Life is so breathtakingly unfair sometimes. My heart just aches.

Anyways you have brought sunshine and warmth and goodness into a dark spot. There's something to be said for that. :)

Jan said...

Well said, but the important thing is to learn and love each other. I love your quilt, and I'm sure your aunt will treasure it.

Marian-Lady Face said...

Beautiful quilt. I'm sure it will be loved.

Nicky said...

I'm sure the quilt will let your aunt know just how much you care about her! That in itself will is bound to hep her - plus it is a fab quilt for her to appreciate!

Nicky said...

I'm sure the quilt will let your aunt know just how much you care about her! That in itself will is bound to hep her - plus it is a fab quilt for her to appreciate!

felicity said...

It's a beautiful quilt, Krista. Life is infuriatingly unfair, especially where cancer is concerned.

Leanne said...

Your aunt will be warm wrapped in your quilt and hopefully she will fight the cancer beast off. I agree with you on all you said and the best we can all do is to channel our energy to support, and prevention.

Kristie said...

What a beautiful way to cheer your aunt as she fights this battle. Unfair for sure :(

Erin @ Why Not Sew? Quilts said...

Krista, the quilt is beautiful. I know your aunt will love it. I hate hearing about this, it's one of those things, I will never understand. Sending prayers her way.

Kelli said...

My husband and you have the exact same feelings about cancer. His is cancer in general though. I am 32 years old and have not one but 2 friends from high school fighting cancer right now. How can that even be possible? Keep praying and sending positivity toward your aunt and know that she is wrapped in a beautiful blanket and the love you sent.

Carla said...

this is fabulous! i love it

Kadybug said...

Wishing your aunt the best - quilts are such a lovely way to give comfort. I hear you on the anger and unfairness. My brother has been on the donor list for a transplant for years. He is getting closer but it has taken a toll on him and his wife. He pretty much spends 70% of the year in the hospital.

Dianne said...

There doesn't seem to be a rhyme or reason to the vagaries of life, if there were then good people and children would never suffer. But life brings us challenges whethter we deserve them or not and when that happens it is a blessing to have someone like you to make the road a little less lonely and difficult. Your quilt will be loved and appreciated by your aunt throughout her battle with cancer and for many years after. Hugs 2 U

Krista Withers said...

your aunt is blessed to have you Krista.
You are a warm spot in so many lives, I feel so lucky to have you as a friend.

Anonymous said...

Beautiful quilt and a beautiful thought!

Sherri ~ daintytime said...

It's hard to understand but in my life experiencing loss, and suffering has opened my heart and has made me kinder.

The I Ching defines abundance as many opportunities for joy and sorrow.

I know this must be an abundant time for your aunt and your entire family. I am sure joy is flowing through the gift of your beautiful quilt.

Sherri ~ daintytime said...

It's hard to understand but in my life experiencing loss, and suffering has opened my heart and has made me kinder.

The I Ching defines abundance as many opportunities for joy and sorrow.

I know this must be an abundant time for your aunt and your entire family. I am sure joy is flowing through the gift of your beautiful quilt.

Linda said...

Beautiful quilt and your aunt will love it and be touched by the love that is sewn into every stitch. I too am on that breast cancer journey so I send your aunt my best wishes and hope her journey goes well.
Linda on travjonuk@yahoo.com

Linda said...
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