Another CQ Question

Jul 31, 2009 5 Replies

I've seen pics of a few crazy quilts that *appear* to have some pieces overlapping. For example:

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that what I'm seeing? Is it ill-advised to do? If it's ok, howmany layers can one safely/reasonably go? What about appliqu=E9ing across/on top of several adjacent patches?



Doc


I suspect most CQs didn't use overlapping fabric, by much. Obviously, there is always a base fabric that the crazy quilt is built onto. That allows the use of fabrics that otherwise would not play well together. And it allows us to ignore the grain and simply put a piece where it fits best. When I crazy quilt, although sometimes I do use a piece that has all raw edges, I try to use an approach of stitch and flip that is like paper piecing.

As for applique, that's the heart of crazy quilt. Applique of little pieces are artfully stitched down along with raw edges. Then pretty embroidery stitches are placed along all the edges, as well as across the surface. The crazy quilt is all about embellishment and surprise.

Sunny

Howdy!

I over-lap the fabrics when I do my crazy quilt shirts; makes for some extra thickness, covers the entire foundation better, secures the adjoining fabrics.

It's your quilt, Doc: make the way you like. ;-)

R/Sandy

I own a crazy quilt that was constructed in the late 1800's and went to examine it when I read your post. It appears that after the first piece was laid on the foundation, all successive pieces have the edges turned under about

1/4 to 1/3 inch and then the decorative stitches were sewn over the fold, through both pieces and the foundation. Yes, this would make them overlap at the edges. There are no seams holding the pieces to each other, just the fancy embroidery. It appears that the piecing in the pictures in the link you provided are done the same way. Mickie

Doc

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