Unfortunately, I took the fabric from the listing above the colorway I needed and got ONE yard (computer glitch) of this:

Not what I needed, didn’t match, and not enough anyway... So back on the computer to order 1 1/2 yards of the correct pattern. Don’t know what I will ever do with this fabric (it's totally not a color I will likely ever use!)

After a week of delay I finally got the correct fabric and got cutting. When I was partly done I realized that I wouldn’t have enough to do the 36 blocks I needed.

Back to the pattern to redesign with borders to make up the size to a queen. And back to the store to get enough to add borders.

I spent about 7 1/2 hours, but tamed this beast! I even was able to get the back put together.

I used one of my favorite tricks to make the back wide enough. Since fabrics are only about 42” wide anymore there is always some width that needs to be made up. I took some of the extra 4 patch blocks and added a foot to the two solid back pieces.

I have included the whole sordid tale to illustrate that often our best plans don’t always (usually, in my case) go as smoothly aswe would like. I didn’t include the part about my husband’s health issues this past week which also figured in to the delay or the last minute sewing project for a darling little grandniece
before a trip to Disneyland.

We always need to plan for unexpected occurrences. This quilt is for a wedding on March 16th, so I was feeling a little under the gun. Now that I can load it tomorrow and start quilting I think I will make it!

— Queen Bee

Quilting, like many creative endeavors, can come with unexpected occurrences. Here are three tips to help you navigate and overcome those unexpected challenges:

1 - Seam Ripper is Your Friend:

• Issue: Mistakes happen – whether it's sewing the wrong pieces together or realizing a fabric placement doesn't work as expected.
• Tip: Always have a seam ripper on hand. Instead of getting frustrated, view it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Seam rippers allow you to carefully undo stitches and correct errors without damaging the fabric. Take your time, and don't be afraid to make adjustments as needed.

2 - Embrace Creative Solutions:

• Issue: Sometimes, you might run out of a specific fabric, discover a fabric flaw, or encounter other unforeseen issues.
• Tip: Get creative with solutions. If a fabric is discontinued or you run out, consider incorporating a coordinating fabric or adapting the design. For fabric flaws, strategic placement in less visible areas or creative appliqué can salvage your project. Flexibility and creativity can turn unexpected challenges into design opportunities.

3 - Backup Materials and Supplies:

• Issue: Running out of thread, batting, or other essential materials mid-project can be frustrating.
• Tip: Keep a well-stocked quilting supplies kit. Having extra thread, batting, needles, and other basic supplies on hand can save you from interruptions. It's also a good idea to check your supplies before starting a project to ensure you have enough of everything.

Remember that unexpected occurrences are a natural part of the creative process. The key is to approach them with patience, a problem-solving mindset, and a willingness to adapt. Every challenge can be an opportunity for growth and innovation in your quilting journey.

Backing fabric not wide enough? What to do?

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