After releasing a new collage pattern, I like to throw out some hints/tips on how to make one of these quilts. Let’s talk about fabric choices for Bluebonnet the Longhorn. Although you don’t have to stick to an exact plan when creating your collage quilt … your fabric stash can be your best friend … it is good to have some general idea of the direction you are headed.
Originally, I thought about using all Kaffe Fassett fabric. I love their fabric’s bright colors! I also thought about using batiks and some novelty fabric for the actual longhorn. Wouldn’t it be fun to use batiks with a field of bluebonnets for the background? Absolutely! Exactly why I decided to do the opposite … bluebonnets and Texas-themed fabrics for the longhorn image and a bright yellow/burnt orange for the background.
Moda makes a lovely line of bluebonnet and Texas-themed novelty fabrics. I also used a fabric from Timeless Treasures that contains sunflowers, pansies, hydrangeas and some pink flowers that played nicely with the bluebonnet fabrics. Of course, when I saw the red bandana fabric, also a Moda fabric, I fell in love. Right away I thought about keeping the bandana fabric intact, instead of cutting it up, for Bluebonnet’s horns, two of the legs, and even the binding! You don’t have to always cut out small motifs for your collage quilt.
I worked on Bluebonnet’s face last. It was the most challenging area for me. When in doubt stage an intervention with your fabric stash! I pulled out a swirly blue fabric and Kaffe Fassett’s orchid fabric for the face.
Next time we will chat about strategies for filling up Bluebonnet with fabric motifs, overlapping motifs and creating the bandana horns and legs!
As always, if you would like to purchase this Bluebonnet art collage pattern, visit my Etsy shop with full-size pattern, supply list and detailed instructions!
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