Hold Onto Your Heart: Part 6 Orbs

One of the things I dislike about writing patterns is having to name certain elements or motifs for the sake of clarity. I much prefer not to name elements and for creators to develop their own terminology. It's the same with these shapes-I've been calling orbs since I drew them but I know everyone will instinctively just know what to call them. Non quilting friends who have seen this shape laying about tables in my house have called them dials, portals and windows. I love each idea in its own turn. 

So this is my orb: I had played around with keeping the centre empty so that the background fabric would show through, and when I tried this it looked very effective. In the end, as this is such a colourful statement quilt top, I decided to opt for more features rather than less. I settled on this wonderful rose print at just the right size for fussy cutting.

Here I'm using my favourite circle tool. If you don't have one already, get one - it makes circles a cinch!

Below are the pattern shapes cut from the fusible

For the circles all around the orb - these are optional.

You could also reverse cut them out to reveal your background fabric if you like.

For me, I'm adding smaller circles as additional applique shapes over the main motif.

Here I'm using my usual fusible, glue stick and turn edge method

and this is the back view

It's important to remember that these orbs want to grow - I know because I had to keep trimming mine back. Take care because the quilt is busy and the space is a custom fit, you can't allow the shapes to creep up any larger than indicated on the pattern.

When thinking about creating your orbs, remember that you don't have to add the extra circles on the dial, you can fussy cut the scalloped shape to show off a fabric instead if it suits your theme better.

Jenny Henry who is a Moderator in my Group has had the wonderful idea of inserting a photo image in each orb as a kind of photo frame - this works perfectly and is definitely worth considering. In fact I love the idea so much that I have incorporated it on my subtle quilt top and will show it in more detail when I have some images..

 'Hold Onto Your Heart' is a paid BOM 

It's a breathtaking quilt full of meaningful symbols and beauty. The floral border is a triumph which offers an additional  pieced option - making it versatile for all skill levels. Perfect for lovers and enthusiasts of applique. 

You can start this BOM today! 

Be sure to visit my Online Quilt Group on Facebook where progress images are being shown all the time. It's a massive inspiration and I warn you, it's addictive!