Birds on the Plain

Flock (of Pink & Grey Galahs): 2004  (Started: 1996)

Galah photo from Wiki

I’d been working on an idea since my Tamworth years inspired by those crazy pink & grey galahs which to me typified life on the North West slopes and plains.  I’d even called my idea in advance, “flock” and that has been the cause of a great stumbling block.  I made two quilts in quick succession, both pink & grey, then failed to record their details before giving them away.  Say no more!

This quilt, started 1996, is made from a large collection of pinks and greys (16 so my notes tell me) gathered to one day settle my itch for a “flock” or feather quilt. The initial pattern I chose was from Shortcuts to the Top (p 55), Birds in the Air. Then I found Kansas Troubles (p122) in Rotary Roundup - much more appealing.

My first pink & grey was started with all the relish that a new rotary cutter provides.  I had it ready for batting and backing & basting by late 2001; there was a rush on at the time to clean up the ever-growing UFO box. I was also teaching myself how to machine quilt with the new Bernina (2003), so straight lines were the go on both counts - speed & sanity.  Eventually given to friend, Kath for safe-keeping. 

Just for the Record:
Quilt Finished Size: 189x 189cm
Block Size: 16”
Cut in: 1996
Pieced & Basted: Machine 2001
Quilted: Machine 2003
Quilt Type: Workshop
Quilt Finished: 2004
Exhibited:  No
Collection: Private 2/6/07
Pattern Name: Kansas Troubles
Pattern Source: Rotary Roundup, Hopkins & Martin
Fabrics Purchased: Colour Collection
Fabric Design: Prints & Plains
Fabric Style: Cotton
Materials Type: Cotton
Wadding Type: Cotton Batt
Backing: Cotton

Lessons Learned:
After a few years of study, I was eager to get back into quilting proper.  I chose a quick pattern with a large size block and a nice scrappy look to get all those pinks & greys I had to form a homogenous whole.  The top was fast, fun to make and satisfied an itch. I still really like the way this quilt turned out.