Umbrellas for April Showers

My number 7 from my first quarter goals list.

This was a project from a class taken at a local quilt shop called "Machine Quilting with Leah Day". It has been a real game changer as far as learning a new skill. And such fun, so challenging, and has opened a whole new world for me!

I did not care so much for the butterflies from Leah Day's book, "Dancing Butterflies Quilt Pattern" so I used the block pattern from Just Quilt It Shop's row by row pattern from 2017 - "Umbrellas".  Or should I now say, Dancing Umbrellas?

Each section above was machine quilted and then sewn together using binding strips to connect the sections. A kind of quilt-as-you-go technique. (another opening for more possibilities - including using up leftover batting remnants)

What fun I had trying out each design! This has turned into a sampler quilt by showcasing different designs that I can refer to again and again. 

Some of my favorites were:

Okay...so don't look too closely as I am still a beginner and have not refined this skill.You may find a few jerks and uneven stitches. But still so much fun once you get your rhythm down! You can check out Leah Day's blog for more machine quilting ideas along with videos demonstrating the stitching. She makes it look so easy, right?

Dancing Umbrellas is now finished and measures at 57" x 75" which is a good throw size. And I busted a total of 8 yards of fabric to make my running total so far for this year = 15 yards. 

The back of this quilt shows the individual sections with connecting binding strips so it can be reversible. My little label is in the lower left corner is for my name, date, and Scripture verse. 

What are your favorite experiences with machine quilting on a domestic machine? Have you found it relaxing and a fun way to finish your projects?