Finally sharing pictures of a quilt that's been in the works behind the scenes. I took advantage of some lovely fall foliage before it was gone to use as a backdrop for this scrappy low-volume cuddle quilt for a special friend.
I made this quilt using Maker Valley's free(!) pattern called Love Drops. I used the layout for the Lap Size version but added a couple of extra rows to make it just a little bit bigger.
This scrappy, patchwork heart quilt was the perfect project for playing with the rather large collection of "Low Volume" prints I've been hoarding, I mean collecting over the past few years. (It's quite a collection these days. So I cut a lot of 5" x 5" squares when I was cutting this quilt so they'd be easy to grab for making future quilts, like this simple checkerboard patchwork quilt.)
Prints that qualify as "low volume" are typically prints on white-ish backrounds. I love the variety of prints that are available and the way they bring interest to a quilt while still providing a neutral 'background'.
If you want to make something similar, but don't have a big stash or variety of low volume prints, check out the 5" stackers of the Hush Hush collections from Riley Blake and get a fun variety in one charm pack!
This quilt was made for sweet friend who's been through a rough breast cancer journey this year. Hence the reason for the minky/cuddle fabric for the backing. It was quilted by my friend Monica who added a few scattered hearts in the stippling.
I threw in a lot of whimsical prints with their young daughter in mind too. (I mean, who can resist a cute Catacorn?) I'm hoping it will also be something they can use to cuddle together when energy is low after chemo treatments.
Quilts are obviously my love language, but it sometimes feels like an frivolous offering compared to the miserable trial this has been for this friend and her family. I'm hoping they'll at least feel the sincere love that is offered with it.
You may recognize the binding on this one - as this is the quilt I used for the updated How to Finish (Bind) a Quilt tutorial.
The setting for this quilt was my own backyard. Right after we moved in the neighbors on the other side of the fence planted a bunch of trees that have matured - and we are the beneficiaries! I can see this one from my kitchen window and it makes me happy all through the fall season. Fortunately I took this picture a couple of weeks ago as all of those leaves are gone now. Glad I captured them while I could!
Kay says
Oh my, this is just lovely. I am sure that your friend will be thrilled, there’s nothing frivolous about this gift as it’s made with love and kindness. X
Amy says
❤❤❤ a good reminder. Thank you. xo
Kelli Wallace says
I lost my daughter to cancer 5 years ago. It’s a grueling journey. Blankets and quilts are LOVE. We snuggled so much and I’m so grateful for the hands that made the gifts!
I work at a public health agency and a group of elderly friends has over 100 quilts to donate to children!!
You inspire me Amy Smart. Thank you❤️🙏🏻
Amy says
I am so sorry for your loss - I can hardly imagine it. Thank you for all the good you are doing. And for your very kind words. xo ❤
Janice King says
Looking for a way to use some neutral charms! This quilt will be perfect for a new little one due in March! Thank you for sharing. Your friend is sure to feel the warmth and compassion you have put into her quilt when she and her daughter use it! Very nice.
Little Quiltsong says
I love this! It is so sweet with the low volume fabrics and cute pops of coloured hearts in there. Beautiful!
Amy says
Thank you. ❤
Pauline Torres says
She will love this. The thoughts and prayers for recovery stitched inside will help so much.
Jenedel Wilcox says
Such a lovely quilt that says "I love you, dear friend." Many cancer patients feel cold during chemo, making a quilt a welcome and useful gift . I think I'd really enjoy making this quilt.
Amy says
It really is a fun and fast one - making it a satisfying finish.
weddingdressblue says
Very nice. I see a low volume quilt in my future.
Holly Lesue says
I love it, Amy! I'm sure your friend will too! xoxo
Christine Sherman says
What a pretty and heartfelt gift. It’s beautiful Amy!
Debbie Y says
Love your version, you're a great friend
cynpentz says
Such a beautiful quilt and a beautiful gift to remind her she is loved with the hearts spread about. Thank you for the pattern ❤️
Patricia says
After pattern that cannot be downloaded until you purchase something is not free.
Amy says
Hmm, that's strange. I just went to the site and I didn't have to purchase anything to download the pattern.
Cheryl says
I had no problem either. You still have to enter your info but total will be $0. What a lovely gift for a dear friend. Anything homemade is from the heart.
Bonnie Stalker says
This is just beautiful. Your friend is so lucky to have you. I just happen to have a fat quarter bundle each of Hush Hush, and Hush Hush 2, so I can see one of these in the near future. Thanks to you and Maker Valley for the pattern.
Laura B says
So lovely, both the quilt and the giving of it. Amy, I love your quilt style in general and I'm always inspired. I have been making a "Sentimental Stars" quilt for some friends who just got married. So thank you for that pattern as well. There are so many beautiful quilts to make next!
Cheryl says
This quilt is just lovely! I too have a huge low volume collection as I just love it for backgrounds. So much more interesting. I hope your friend is recovering and I am sure she had tears when you gifted her this quilt. Such a beautiful gesture.