"Golden Oldie" Collage

I hardly ever have a chance to quilt for myself, so I decided it was time for a small linen. I started with a 34" square Hardanger linen piece from my stash.

I'm so glad I have this wrinkled before shot so you can see the magic that happens.  Next, I chose this great "silk society" round (about 10" in diameter) that I had found in an antique shop.

I always try to do a quick sketch of my plan. Trust me, it's nothing fancy!

Then the magic begins! I may put in a few registration lines with a blue, water erasable pen, and then I start quilting. I first attached the round embroidered piece in the center by quilting around the edges and outlining the butterfly/heart motifs. I didn't want to compromise the piece too much, so I kept it simple. The initials in the middle are amazingly stitched and I wanted them to really stand on their own! Those ladies of yesteryear were meticulous in their stitching. I can't stop admiring the handwork!

Underneath the drawn threadwork I placed a piece of gold lame to make it really pop! The silk embroidery is so pronounced and I wanted to compliment the golds in the thread.

After 10 hours of quilting, here is the big TA-DA!! I cannot tell you how pleased I am with this beauty!

OH, don't forget the stitched butterflies! These are very subtle, but I like to mimic something from the original linen and this was perfect!

I finished this with an ivory satin binding, added a few crystals and viola!! Enjoy!