Hand-Stitched Quilt that’s both Fulfilling and Low Barrier to Entry

I finished the story quilt I started a few months ago; the beginnings of which, can be found here. I used Heidi Parkes tutorial found on Youtube and my pile of scrap fabric that I save in my closet “just in case I need it someday”. And well, I did need it! This hand-stitched quilt, seen here on my couch, is both fulfilling and low barrier for me to create.

This hand-stitched quilt was a fulfilling project for me

1. I got to use up many scraps (the only items I bought to make this quilt were two spools of hand-quilting thread and two packs of bias binding). Using up my stash brings me such delight!
2. The slow repetitive stitching allowed lots of time for me to reflect and remember where each piece of fabric came from and why it was important to me. The process of hand-stitching helps not just my body, but also my mind to slow down.
3. I felt I was able to express myself as I chose each applique piece using the personal prompts that Heidi Parkes created. When I look at the finished quilt it tells my personal story.

It was easy to start as its a very low barrier project

1. I used up scraps I already had on hand. I used a torn bedsheet, leftover fabric from other projects and unused pieces that were languishing in my stash. I could have also used old or torn up clothes. The challenge is to not buy anything new! (Though when I ran out of topstitching thread I did choose to buy new hand-quilting thread. I actually prefer the weight of the topstitching thread, however. And I bought my bias binding to finish the edges since at this point I wanted it to match at least a little bit)
2. I didn’t need a sewing machine. This project is entirely by hand!
3. A table, outlet and most other sewing essentials were not required! I worked on this project on the couch, on the go (I took it camping with me) and at the kitchen table.
4. The instructions and prompts are available on Heidi’s Youtube channel. I didn’t need to purchase anything to learn how to make it.
5. This was my first time hand-stitching a project before. If I wanted to do a running stitch for the entire project I could have, and the crooked stitches just add to the charm. No experience necessary.

If you want to play a little game, see if you can find something that represents:

1. My birthday
2. The left side of part of my body
3. Snippets from garments I’ve made
4. 6 things I touch everyday (try to name them all)
5. Something from nature
6. Whether I’m a morning or a night person
7. A travelling line
8. A representation of something from Phillipians 2:15

I hope you will try your own hand-stitched quilt, or be inspired to try a different hand-stitched project of your own choosing!

Until next time, Happy Sewing!