Thursday, April 30, 2020

Carolyn: "Can't Paint the Town Red"



My quilt reflects the Covid-19 Pandemic that we are currently facing with our quarantine and stay-at-home orders.  It features a circle representing the world-wide contagion with countries all over the world.  The coronavirus moves all around the globe, signaling the seriousness of this 2020 pandemic.  A blue mask reminds us of those caring for the infected and the urgency to wear a mask when we go outside to help contain the virus.  Only one of the homes is infected with the virus.  Can you tell which one?



I used a new Spring fabric by Kaffe Fassett for the background to communicate the world-wide goal of “flattening the curve.” The globe is purple reminding us of the hope for a vaccine.  Green grass signals an eventual return to a new “normal.”  The virus particles are fussy cut from another new Kaffe fabric, which resembles the coronavirus.  The same fabric is also used for the back and binding.  Each house is “painted” vivid red, but because each is unique, individual polka dot fabric tops each roof and door.  That is, except for the unfortunate, infected household.

The entire quilt is made with raw-edge fusing.  I tried a new thread for me – Wonderfil Invisifil 100 wt. with a #60 needle in tiny stitches for the entire quilt, except for the Ricky Tims 40 wt. polyester green thread for the grass.

This whimsical quilt reminds me to honor those who battle this virus, to stay hopeful, to do my part by staying at home, and to look forward to a brighter day. 


7 comments:

  1. Oh wow, Carolyn! You sure packed a lot into your little quilt! I’ve been trying to think of a way to make a quilt that tells the story of this time and not go to a dark place. You really did it! Impressive as always!

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  2. Agree that you packed a lot of meaning and heart into this!! And it is adorable too!! Fantastic job!!

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  3. Yes, indeed, a quilt that is full of meaning and heart! Plus it is so beautifully planned and constructed. I think it's hilarious that now three of us basically went with the idea of painting the town red! But three such different takes on this same basic interpretation for this theme word. Mine simple and realistic, sort of; Nedra's nostalgic and a real city; yours symbolic and loaded with meaning! (Hmmm, who's the simplistic one here?)

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  4. Wow Carolyn, this is an amazing quilt on so many levels. I love how you have chosen to honor and acknowledge what the world is experiencing with such care and thoughtfulness but managed to do it in such a charming whimsical way.

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  5. Amazing that you were able to tell a complete story of what our World is experiencing right now through your quilt ! I noticed your use of Red (as in Corona); the really subtle but wonderful way you portrayed the virus cells; how connected the houses are to each other, yet separated at the same time. And of course, the Blue Mask at the center of your quilt.
    I became a "Maker of Masks" because of this Corona Virus, and every mask I make is a tribute to those who are working so valiantly to protect all of us who are "Remaining in Place" in our homes. Great Job !

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  6. Thanks for the kudos dear Material Mavens!

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