Hello Everyone,
So the other day I did a post about the loot that I picked up at the AQS show and that really sparked some wonderful comments and e-mails. I decided it really deserved some more attention.
As you are all now aware, I have a "secret" collection/stash of authentic African fabrics. I totally and utterly blame my husband for this. You see in 2005 he took a trip to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with my brother and some friends. He was gone for two weeks, and knowing my love for fabric, he purchased the fabrics in the picture below for me!
I don't know what it was about these fabrics, was it that hubby had just been thinking of me, was it the beautiful color and design? I am not sure. But it was love at first site.
You can see on the selvage of this beautiful purple and red print that it is an authentic wax print from Tanzania.
This yellow, black and green print is just beautiful, but I couldn't find any imprint on the selvage. He did bring back about 3 yards of each. Plenty to distribute amongst many quilts or simply to use on a back.
Many of you have asked what I will do with the African fabrics. I have 2 books.
This first book offers tons of inspiration and design possibilities. A great book for reference.
This second book has some great projects to put any ethnic fabric to use. I would say that mostly she has African and Asian fabrics highlighted in this book.
However, the pattern below is the one that I am going to make for my hubby. Hopefully it will be a Christmas present for him... this year! It is called African Coins. The author also had been on Simply Quilts when it was on HGTV. There is still information on there website about her visit. There is also directions to make this quilt as well as an Australian Version! Just click HERE.
I really love the design. The coin quilt design has always been a favorite of mine and this quilt has a little twist to it. The sashing is beautifully designed and the fact that the size of the coin columns vary, just adds more interest.
This post is just a sneak peek into my African fabric stash. I promise you I will show you more in the weeks to come. I really find each and every piece I have unique, and hope that you will too.
My April, 2010 Newsletter is available online for your perusal. Lots of great info! Just click HERE to read.
Until Next Time...