Background Complete

So I have been working like a maniac trying to make some progress on 'The Big One' , which is a project I committed myself to with no understanding as to how complicated such an undertaking could possibly be.  But with extensive research, Suzanne type help, and trial and error.  I am proud to say that the hardest part is complete.  I present the 'as good as it gets' background. So the background measures approximately 54x64 inches and has a little jog in the thing, but lies what I like to call 'visually square', hahaha.  As previously mentioned in a passed post my camera isn't the best and it's hard to see the vast array of unlikely patterns that make up this thing.  I would like to verify that all clashes or mind boggling colour choices may be chalked up to my mothers unique style as this quilt is being specifically made for her.  I personally like posts that are photo rich, so here is a little photo diary of how I put this bloody thing together.

Cut our water pieces from freezer paper template

Ironed pieces from template onto selected fabric

Cut out around selected fabric, note to self; leave larger allowance around template pieces

Clip valleys of fabric for easy and smooth turn

I used a paintbrush to brush on some spray starch to help hold the turn

I used a comination of small applique iron and larger hot iron to iron seams over

Once all pieces were turned and pinned up to design wall, time to put them together! 

here are some of my pieces lined up on the fusible stabilizer stuff (I think the stuff you  would us in collars of shirts?), I found it at my local sewing shop.  It's only fusible on one side. 

Here is the water all fused together and ready to reveal the fabric.  I know there are other ways to do this so you can see what you are doing but I really enjoyed a little mystery. 

Sorry about the fuzzy photo, but here is the idea of stitching the pieces down, I used an invisible thread and a blanket type stitch. 

Go little Brother machine! This is the machine I use mostly. 

Ta Da! 

I have learned so much during this process, and if you want to make a background like this I recommend that you plan, plan, plan, and then scrap that plan and plan again (that's what I did and it worked out OK).  Anyhow I hope to have the applique heron ready to go in the next week, but I just may take a break instead and quilt a quilt for a couple of special little babies that I didn't get to hold because of my moving from British Columbia to Saskatchewan this summer :(.  I wish I could meet you Zoe and Trent.