I caved.  64 blocks not 81.  But at least it is finished, and it is a healthy 74 sq". Although it is not clear from my photo, the final border is a 3" red strip.  After canvassing a few quilters,  I am using a cream quilters muslin for the back, and hand quilting with an off-white thread.  It will take a while, and during that time I can dwell on the choice of white or red binding.  I would love some blogger input on the decision, so please feel free to voice your opinion.

Getting the top ready for a photo opportunity took an unusual amount of time, due to the red threads that gathered on the white fabric and the white threads that wanted to lie on the red fabric.  Now the migrating threads have been removed, but I bet that's not the last time I'll have to do it.

Since I've been home, I've also found time to complete another block for my BTCT quilt; now I have 20 finished, 3 in progress, one to draw up and another to find.  The block below is not from the downloaded patterns. The kangaroo on the left  (yes, that is my humble effort of a kangaroo) may or may not make it into the final quilt.  I wanted to add something identifiably Australian, even though the original quilt was probably made in the US.  I will audition it when the blocks are all finished.

I hope you are all enjoying some quality sewing time this weekend.

Posted by liz at 1:00 PM Labels: BTCT, red and white quilt Lurline said...

A very beautiful quit - enjoy quilting, maybe white biding.
Hugs Lurline

February 26, 2012 at 1:07 PM Beautiful quilt, Liz. My only gripe with white binding is how easily it looks soiled.
Love your little roo on the BTCT block. I think it needs to be a part of the quilt!

February 26, 2012 at 2:10 PM Carol G said...

Your red and white quilt is lovely. I think I would do a short test strip of both colors to help me decide which binding. You can just baste them on. I do hope your cute kangaroo makes it into your BTCT quilt.

February 26, 2012 at 2:17 PM Red binding definitely and is that an Eastern Grey Kangaroo?

February 26, 2012 at 2:29 PM regan said...

LOVE your red & white! It's fantastic!

February 26, 2012 at 4:43 PM Mikey Beth said...

Interesting block pattern! Love it! I say definately the red binding. I'm not a huge fan of the white just because it ends up looking old and dirty before it's time. Good luck!

February 26, 2012 at 6:06 PM Could you use a darker red for the binding? It is looking great so far and well done for persevering!

February 26, 2012 at 8:02 PM Kathie said...

oh I love your new quilt, just something wonderful about simple blocks in solids....especially red and white :)
oh my love your block oh yes you have to add it to your BTCt quilt so cute adding the kangaroo!
I also will be switching out a few blocks when I make mine!

February 26, 2012 at 8:47 PM I love the little kangaroo!!!

Your red and white quilt is stunning!!! I vote for a red binding.

February 26, 2012 at 9:57 PM If it were mine I would go with the red binding. I love the block you added to the BTCT quilt. I too have some different blocks as I didn't care for the grapes and pineapples.

February 27, 2012 at 12:40 AM Frances Leate said...

A beautiful quilt and I just love red and white. My choice would be for a red binding. Take care.

February 27, 2012 at 1:03 AM I love the BTCT block and think the kangaroo will certainly make it your own!!
Your r&w quilt is lovely!! That color combination is so striking!!

February 27, 2012 at 2:46 AM Hi, Liz. Well I'll add my two cents worth--I vote for a red and white stripe binding and keeping the kangaroo!

February 27, 2012 at 3:09 AM Holly Field Designs said...

I love your red & white! I'm currently making a red & white sampler and honestly amazed that I'm sticking with it! There is something that happens when another finished block is pressed, and it looks so crisp... and the red pattern contrasts so strongly with the white... I just love it!

February 27, 2012 at 8:06 AM Impressive block design for your cherry tree~ I'm on block 25, no borders started.
Your red and white quilt is stunning and a good size.
I'm a dark binding person - but that could change too..
Thank you for sharing - you've been busy!

February 27, 2012 at 8:12 AM sandi s said...

I would use a red binding or maybe a red and white stripe. (cut on the bias) I love your kangaroo, I hope he gets to stay in the quilt.

February 27, 2012 at 11:06 AM I adore your red and white quilt! It will be deliciously wonderful quilted by hand - do you have something special in mind for the setting squares? I'm making a red and white too and when I basted it took a long time to get rid of all the red threads - wouldn't want one to show through the white!! I love the kangaroo :0)

February 27, 2012 at 1:26 PM the kangaroo is very cute and unique! i think i would go with a red print fabric for binding, not solid, so as to have a subtle texture.

February 28, 2012 at 7:28 AM Your R&W quilt is so wonderful!
I usually use dark binding to frame a quilt. Either would look nice. May audition both on each side and see what seems right?
great quilt

March 1, 2012 at 7:47 AM taylorsoutback said...

Catching up on some Cherry Tree blocks from our online group - the kangaroo on your block is wonderful & like everyone else, I hope he becomes part of your quilting story.
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