Quilt Stories - Checkerboard Quilt from Sunday Morning Quilts from Men's Dress Shirts

[@tiffanygould-gv1yb]

As the recipient of this quilt, I feel so blessed to have a friend like Cathy. Not just because she gave me a quilt, but because she puts so much thought in…everything. She gave me a gift that I could never match, but that’s just who she is. This give came at a very trying time during our careers and I’m glad to know it gave her a little bit of joy to make it. She puts love into everything she does and it really shows in this piece of craftsmanship. I will cherish it, and our friendship, forever.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sweetest comment...ever! ❤️ Love you so much, my friend! 🥰

[@melissahill8565]

Hi from Washington state!!! Back in the 90's, found a flat box in my grandparents storage unit! The greatest surprise!! Perfectly hand cut 4 inch squares by my grandma that had passed away in the 70's! fabrics from my mom's prom dress, my Easter dresses, grandma's aprons, dresses and Grandpas's shirts! A true treasure!! Made two quilts and hand quilted them!!

[@poppies1215]

What a lovely find that turned into works of “heart”. Your Grandma would be so proud.💖

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Melissa, that is so amazing! What a GIFT! 🥰❤️

[@saraborisch5343]

I think that is my favorite of all your quilts and I love the story. I discovered quilting during the pandemic and political nonsense by watching KZbin videos. I felt less isolated as I had so many new friends on line! I have a couple questions. Do you cut your squares with scissors or a rotary cutter? How many shirts of the micro beige did you use for the back? I may use that pattern to make baby quilts that I want to donate. It won't matter what the shirt fabric pattern is!

[@btuller1772]

My Grandma-in-law made a king size quilt of her and her mother's handkerchiefs and she gave it to us. It's very white, so I don't have it on my bed and it doesn't match our decor but it's beautiful and I treasure it. I just need to find a place to show it off. Frances is no longer with us but she started quilting in her retirement which is inspiring to me at 58. It's never to late to learn a new craft.

[@saraborisch5343]

@@btuller1772 I bet it’s lovely! Is there tatting on it?

[@damarisrempel9147]

Quilting is my life blood as well. I still have to work but when I don't have enough energy to stitch when I get home, I know I need to rest. I love creating and making quilts and am so Thankful for kindred spirits like you that can share the JOY AND PASSION that God of gave us. I love that you use recycled fabrics and that you are not a fabric or sewing snob. I have come to believe that quilters are a special breed of people. I have not met any quilters that I don't relate to. They are "Good" people. I love your joy and giggles and you warm my heart!!!!💕💕Thank you so much!!

[@lindaherrington6291]

Love this story! I'm a member of the 'can't unsee it' club. If something I've done doesn't look right I can't let it go, I'd rather spend the time unpicking and doing it again so that I can look at it with satisfaction. Not only have you made your friend a beautiful quilt, but now she has a video telling the story of its quilting journey, and also the love that went into it. That it served to lift your spirit whilst making it was an added bonus, it's the joy that comes with giving.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Linda!❤ I think I’m a member of the “can’t unsee it” club too! And you are so right--that joy I felt when I made this quilt, and even now reflecting on it, is a gift! ❤

[@ОльгаПогуляева-д2т]

Благодарим ви, че се грижите за кучетата и котките!

[@cathybabnick7326]

Cathy, Your checkerboard quilt is one of my favorite quilt stories. Your feelings and thoughts portray your careful and genuine way. I like the way you telll about your creative experience. I always look forward to your videos.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cathy❤ (name buddy!🥰) I told my husband when I watched the edit before we released the video, “this one captures me and my more serious side”-I love that you saw it and felt it too. Thank you so much for watching and commenting; I’m glad you enjoy being here with me!❤

[@kristenacarbone7549]

What a great story! You are such an accomplished quilter. I was shocked to see that you have only been quilting a relatively short time. What an inspiration you are to so many quilters, both new and seasoned. Beautiful quilt!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kristen! ❤️

[@PWallace23]

SO enjoy your stories, thought process, learning processes and your genuine caring for everything you touch. We all need kindness in our world and you definitely share that through your videos...oh and your humor! Very enjoyable!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Trish! ❤️

[@PWallace23]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts

[@SomersetSewist]

Making quilts for those we love is like giving them a permanent hug!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

YES! And I love that! ❤️🥰

[@marybeth4002]

I saw this beautiful quilt on your couch in one of your recent videos. At the time I wanted to ask about it but thought.... wait, be patient and was hoping it would be featured soon. I love this pattern and style so much - and your words of encouragement... 'do it, just do it'.This was not just a gift to Tiffany, but yourself too, giving you strength to get through some challenging days in your professional life.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mary Beth! ❤(And I’m glad you got your wish to see it!) You’re so right-this quilt WAS a gift to me too. You know what they say: Quilting is therapy!❤

[@anitabrantley5202]

Love this quilt and the story. What a lucky friend you have. I've had friends tell me they would make something for me but I make things. They don't realize how much I would treasure something someone made just for me.

[@silver_csmith]

Love this!! Isn’t it so much better when you’re making a quilt FOR a specific person. Something so special! 🥰👌🏻

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Charity! 🥰 and you are SO right! ❤

[@sherryfaires7931]

Cathy, you are a great friend! I have made several quilts for young relatives…but nothing like yours. I don’t think I would have the patience to sew all those little squares. Your quilts are all gorgeous! I love your stories, too, and I am glad that you have a lot to say about it!☺

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Sherry! 🥰❤️ I think you might be surprised about you, and patience, and sewing a zillion squares--if you do just a little at a time, it doesn't even require patience! 🤓

[@paulamcclellan8436]

Your quilts are just lovely , classic & a touch of vintage all wrapped up with Love. I am with you about the not having them random , & deciding what color goes where. Although in your placement you have acheived the look of Random & thats a talent that I hope to achieve. Blessings , keep up the wonderful good work. 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Paula!❤️

[@Ldsks7591]

Such a fun story! My motivation when I first began, during covid, was love as well. Made a quilt for each of my 9 grandkids! Everyone different and a new learning experience for me.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a wonderful gift(s)-quilts for 9 grandkids! 🤩😍 I bet you DID learn a lot! 🤓 Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing! ❤

[@kellyb739]

Your quilt story just warmed my heart. Thanks for sharing this sweet quilt journey. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kelly! 🥰❤️ This quilt is the one that really did it for me, so I'm so glad it spoke to your heart!

[@jocobuyer]

Love this quilt and the commentary. I making notes from the discussion - would love to have a t-shirt quoting several of the comments as I feel the same way about creativity and quilting!

[@happynanna4749]

💕Wow! That was an awesome story! You are such an amazing friend to Tiffany. Thanks so much for sharing your quilt stories! ❤️

[@BillieJean64]

I have a lot to say about how thankful I am to have found you! I enjoyed this quilt story SO much! I have spent the morning on my pollen cover front porch in sunny NC, drinking coffee and watching your series on breaking down men's dress shirts. You are a joy to listen to and have inspired me! I'm off to the thrift store!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness! Thank you, Billie! ❤️ I'm so thankful you've found me too!! 🥰

[@joydalton4987]

Hi Cathy that is a lovely quilt and story, I’m so happy to hear that your friend absolutely loved the quilt I do enjoy listening to you talk about your quilts. Please keep in sharing. My first quilt was for my daughter and her husband for her wedding shower. Never quilted before but my grandmother was in a quilting bee in her little town in upstate New York. I remember the quilts she made and the few that I have from her. I always wanted to try it. my daughter and son-in-law got married in December Christmas wedding so I made a Christmas quilt. I made large patches I think my squares were 9 inch I did wing it I did use flannel fabric for the backing because I wanted it to be comfortable and soft and yes it is stretchy, we learn the hard way i did have to redo some of the binding but I did it. They love it too. I’ve made 8 more since some baby some Queen size. I haven’t done the machine quilting on the larger quilts but I did on a baby. I have a domestic machine and I can’t fit it so I just hand tied it. Now I’m working on one for me. I ❤Quilting.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hi Joy! Thank you so much! 🥰❤️ I love this story of your first quilt...thank you for sharing!

[@madhavidharankar]

I bumped on ur video n am just loving the way u “talk” quilts. There r many channels that show the quilts, the process of constructing blocks, etc. But not many channels discuss quilts n the thought that has gone into it. Listening to u gave me very soothing feeling. Thank u for taking efforts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! Glad you found me!! ❤️

[@poppies1215]

Diving right into those ripples of color combined with one’s imagination to create a quilt story is what motivates me to begin any new project in earnest. It is obvious that your friendship with Tiffany is a shared joy which makes this quilt story so enlightening. In life we have the push and pullback of adapting to any challenge. It’s so nice to know that in our daily struggles we can find the comfort of friendship and quilting in the push and pull of fabric. In quilting times we negotiate choices we make that will lead us to the comfort we can find and deliver to one another through our own quilting journey. We are giving a little bit of our creative selves in the process. Love these stories Cathy…each stitch at a time. Thank you for sharing.💕🌟🪡🧵

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pamela! ❤ You’re so right-the colors and fabrics and the push/pull of life and quilting-it’s what brings love and comfort initially to me and then to the quilt receiver! ❤

[@colleen-elizabeth]

Love this beautiful quilt. I have the same book, and just took it out of my closet to revisit the patterns, as you have inspired me to make upcycled quilts! I definitely cannot do random either! Thank you for sharing all your wisdom. 🙏

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Colleen! I love this quilt pattern (well and the quilt) too--it is just so beautiful and gives some direction to those of us who want to make classic and lovely upcycled quilts! ❤️

[@dctmt3346]

“…I don’t do random…”. I am so glad to hear I am not the only one. Even my t-shirt quilts must make sense with pattern and color. :-)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are DEFINITELY not alone in this! 🥰 And I love that phrase you used, "must make sense with pattern and color"----YESSSS!!!🤓

[@lindalosier5989]

I love this quilt and the story behind it. I have made several quilts over the last few years but never one for my own bed until last fall. I made one similar and loved every minute. I was inspired by a picture I have of my great-great grandmother sitting in a rocking chair with her glasses on her head and a checkerboard quilt on her lap.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Linda! ❤️ It's really hard to beat a pretty checkerboard quilt---there's a reason they've been around for so long! 🤩

[@glynisreynolds446]

Just been enjoying watching this wonderful quilt again 😃 I’m wishing that I could be getting on with mine 😳 but there’s so much that needs doing in the garden 🤷‍♀️ One of these days I’m going to sew 🤞 Love this quilt 😍🇬🇧

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Glynis, I love this one too-if I didn’t have so many other WIP’s I’d start a new one!

[@glynisreynolds446]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts my thoughts exactly 🤷‍♀️ but I’m already gathering up shirts to make a bright blue chequerboard version 🤣🤣🤣🇬🇧

[@wendywight-g5u]

Cathy, I love your videos and this one in particular struck a chord with me. I had so many leftover pieces of fabric from years of sewing for my family. This seemed the perfect use for them. At times I felt a little overwhelmed with the whole process and those piles of 2 1/2 inch squares. I did carry on and now have a queen size quilt top that will be off to the quilter tomorrow. I am thrilled with the result of my labors. I did end up having to purchase a yard of white fabric but every other square came from what I had. Thank you so much for your inspiration. I have also started to accumulate thrift store men's shirts. Love the idea of re-purposing fabrics. Can't wait to start my next project. Your love of quilting is infectious!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Wendy, that is so wonderful!! What an accomplishment! 🤩 I’m so thankful that you have found inspiration here with me-it is a great compliment! Thank you! ❤️

[@casageorgia]

I love that quilt! I have yet to make a traditionally made quilt. I have been making yoyo quilts for over 40 years. This is going to be the one that I’m going to do, and I’m so excited about it. I had bought the Sunday Morning Quilts book based on your earlier recommendation so I already have the instructions. I had made a yoyo quilt from shirt fabrics so I already have a bin of shirt fabrics cut into yoyos that can easily be cut into 2 1/2 inch squares. I going to dust off my 50 year old Kenmore sewing machine and get started. You are such an inspiration and a joy to watch. Thank you!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I'm SO EXCITED for you!!! 🤩❤️ I cannot wait for you to start cutting those shirt yoyos and sewing them together to make this Checkerboard quilt---I hope you love it as much as I do!! 🥰❤️

[@casageorgia]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Kathy, I went out yesterday to one of my favorite thrift stores to buy white shirts so I could get started and found a short-sleeve, 100 percent cotton, 5X shirt for $1.00!! I never saw a 5x before! I’m so excited to get started.

[@christinahall3318]

Sweet Cathy! What JOY there is in a quilt for a friend! I totally get the undoing of the quilt - I’ve picked a decorative stitched binding and whew what a chore. I just couldn’t let it go or as another fan stated - I couldn’t unsee it! You are the best and I love this quilt story.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sweet Christina! So very true---making a quilt for a friend IS a JOY!! ❤️ I'm so glad you enjoyed this one! 🥰

[@mygrommi]

My favorite of all your quilts! It is beautiful and looks so snuggly. Thanks for a wonderful story. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Renea! 🥰 It is very soft and snuggly!

[@romonaelrod7870]

Hi Cathy. The quilt is beautiful. The clothes pin doll is adorable.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Romona! ❤️

[@kimbetts4282]

The simplest things can bring so much joy, can't they? I love checkerboard quilts. They remind me of Battenberg cake 🎂 Your quilt stories are always so inspiring Cathy ♥ I've always felt that quilts are treasures from one heart to another and Tiffany's quilt is definitely that ♥ I have finally gotten around to getting your favourite quilting book ( just on Kindle for now until I get to a good bookstore) - Sunday Morning Quilts and I just love it...after a quick flip through, I'm now enjoying a darn good read and soaking up all the lovely conversations contained within. Now I know why you like the book so much! I've completely dumped the mystery book I was reading 🤣 Your clothes pin doll was so sweet. I'd love to hear and see more about those! I've not ever seen them before.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kim! ❤ Isn’t that book just wonderful?! I seriously could just pull it out and read some part or just leaf through it every day. Mine lives on my end table. 🤓 And thanks about the clothespin dolls-they were fun to make and served my creative needs way back some years ago! I haven’t made one in a long time! (But I still have some of the fabrics and that makes me so happy!😊)

[@teresacesario6247]

Absolutely stunning!!!

[@RobinHarris61]

Wonderful story! Beautiful quilt! When I am sewing quilts I think about the person I am making it for, and all the love just pours into the quilt. It's nice to have someone like Tiffany who appreciates what you have done for her. Thanks for sharing. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Robin! ❤️🥰 Even though I've never met you in real life, I can 100% imagine you thinking of the person and the quilt just soaking up all that love! And you're right, it is a wonderful gift (to me) that she appreciates what I made for her! 🥰

[@yx6889]

Great story! I love quilting too and it's for the same reasons that you mentioned. It's not just a hobby, it really feeds my soul.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

"feeds my soul." Yep. Perfectly said.❤️

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

What a wonderful story and journey. And yes, quilting does hide a multitude of sins and then washing it hides all the rest. I too am very picky about points and intersections. I love my washing machine and dryer and what it does and creates the extra texture in a quilt (to me) that is needed and that is just wonderful. Thank you again for a lovely story.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Christine! 🥰❤️ I also love the washing machine and dryer---it often makes me forget about mistakes that I fretted over while piecing and quilting! 😍🤩

[@debramiller254]

Loved your Checkerboard Quilt story! I could tell the quilt and the process meant a lot to you. Tiffany is so lucky to be the recipient. I thought your clothes pin doll was adorable-such a cute face! The way you summed up at the end of doing just one square at a time when you can reminds me of how my Mama always said to eat an elephant-one bite at a time!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Debra!❤ ps I say that phrase all the time! (One bite at a time) We can do almost anything if we just break it up into manageable pieces-and isn’t that quilting in a nutshell?🤓

[@marcellarodriguez7955]

What a nice quilt. I like the idea that you spent a few minutes in the morning to do a few blocks before work and couldn’t wait to come home to do a few more. I’m going to try this process with my projects because just can’t seem to get the time to do them. My mom had a beautiful pillow with this pattern on her sofa;)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Marcella! ❤️ I believe in that process (a little at a time) so much that I did a video series on it called, "Part Time Quilter." It's amazing what you can get done when you redeem the downtime you DO have (even if it's 15 minutes) for quilting tasks! 🥰

[@socalgingerjohnson]

I enjoy you sharing your detailed stories. I tend to hold onto possibilities that items offer. This process tends to hold me trapped in a phase of attachment. I think you are helping me understand through the items you hold dear, and your process of completion that these items have a significant value (and the difference between the two)! Since you started your channel I have revisited sewing my piles of possibilities! I have let go of those that hold me trapped, and completed multiple overwhelming quilts in waiting. ThankYou🥰 for sharing your joy with so many. I truly enjoy the process of turning any fabric into quilts. I Love (is there an r in Love?) turning a stack of a loved ones clothing into quilts❤️❤️❤️ Moving forward has value.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, Ginger! 🥰 It means so much to me that I've helped or encouraged you in any way--what a wonderful compliment! "Moving forward has value"---YES it DOES. And I love that you are seeing that, and it is helping you finish quilts and feel less overwhelmed!! ❤️

[@Siennaflower]

I have learned that I have an abundance of energy for the things I want and love to do, and very little energy for the things I don't want and am not meant to do. It informs my decisions about how I spend my time, and helps me know where I belong and what is important. How wonderful that you discovered something so life giving in the midst of a difficult time! We may not be able to avoid everything we don't like doing, but we can minimize the drudgery and maximize the joy wherever possible! ❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Preach it! And yes, the relief and joy and life I felt once I started quilting was palpable! ❤️

[@tamisullivan8705]

Great story Cathy!! I hope life continues to give you many more story quilts!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Tami!❤ Me too--so glad you enjoy them!🥰

[@bethliebman8169]

Another wonderful quilt story! I especially loved your reporting how energizing quilting for your friend was. I can relate. BTW, one of the things that appeals to me about your quilts is the liberal use of white to set off the patterns of the colored shirt fabrics.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Beth! 🥰 I think there are a lot of us who relate to that---and isn't that just wonderful?! And thank you about the "liberal use of white" comment--I, like you, like the look of it and how it highlights the colored shirt fabric! 😍🤩

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

Your friend was probably thrilled that you'd put so much time and effort into her gift. And it's huge!! A great idea for a memory quilt. The tip about using cotton drill for the binding is much appreciated.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Maggie, she was thrilled! And it IS SO BIG. 😂🤩😍 I hope all the memory quilt makers out there try this one---it's just so beautiful once it's all put together.❤️ I'm eager for you to try the twill binding! I think you'll really enjoy it.🤓👍🏻

[@LucyBarley]

I absolutely love this!!! And what great ideas!

[@btuller1772]

I related to so much in this story. Being around quilts my whole life. Great grandma, grandma and other who made quilts that were in our house, that I stared at the fabric. Being in a job I love but that is stressful due to....fill in the blank. I haven't made a quilt yet but I loved the beauty of the quilt you made and the creative backing. Your story hit me in that I need to find a creative outlet for my creativity. I could go on and on but just wanted to say your story hit me and will make me think, like I've already been thinking about my life and career and my need for something else. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

B, I want to thank you for this comment---it means so very much to me, because I've been there (and to an extent still am, trying to think through my career and next steps!) 🥰🤓 Finding a creative outlet is key, I believe, to tapping into what we were made for and what gives us joy and meaning and purpose. Which is easier said than done, but worth the exploration---for me, if I just start doing ANYTHING creative, it's like it greases the wheels and gets me rolling! Wishing you all the inspiration and creativity and motivation that this world has to offer as you find your creative outlet! ❤️❤️❤️

[@shannoneaster9311]

I love checkerboard quilts and yours is no exception! I love that it was a gift for your sweet friend. And the name for the quilt is perfect! 👍🏼 Creating is such a joy, and a wonderful way to re-fill our buckets. Thankfully quilting has become so much simpler with its increasing popularity and the creation of the new quilting tools available. Thank you for sharing another sweet quilt story. I love how different yet similar our stories can be. Lovely ❤️👍🏼

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shannon!❤ I suspect this thread of love and the joy of creating runs deep through all of our quilts-and maybe all of *us* too. ❤🥰

[@denisegomez755]

Beautiful quilt! I can feel the love you put into it.❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you Denise! ❤️

[@Amritadivya54]

Beautiful story and beautiful quilt! A "simple" pattern, completed with care can be stunning. Just have to add: twill weave is stronger than plain weave because the weft or filling threads are closer together--they pack close together when woven. That's why the longest wearing jeans are a twill weave. Thank You for sharing this story!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Janelle! ❤️🥰 I too, have a deep belief that simple quilts done well are so very beautiful. Thank you for the info about twill---I really do love all these pearls of knowledge/wisdom about each fabric! More understanding = better formed quilts (in my book!) 🤓

[@lindamasson3094]

A friend gave me a bag of mens shirting that had been cut from shirts. Mostly blends. I hated making that quilt! If I could find 100% cotton shirts, I would use it. Your quilt and attitude to quilting is beautiful.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

"Your quilt and attitude to quilting is beautiful."---ok that made me a little weepy. 😘 Thank you for you kind words; I'm humbled and honored. ❤️ Those dang cotton-poly blends---awful to quilt with! 😫 (but oh they lure you in with the prints and patterns, don't they?!) Thank you, Linda, for watching and commenting! ❤️

[@caroline-brisbane8577]

I love this quilt, and the heartfelt story ,,,,, some of us lean towards controlled scrappy. 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Caroline! 🥰 It's true---if I do scrappy, you can bet your sweet bippy it's going to be *controlled* scrappy! 😉

[@joannewiggins2152]

Ohh, I want to cut squares! Thank You for your lovely stories and more inspiration and encouragement ♥️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Joanne!❤️🥰 Thank you for watching and commenting!!

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Thank you for sharing your story and Tiffany's quilt. I have a huge amount of squares already cut. Great idea for next project.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You're welcome and thank you, too, DiAnn! ❤️ And HOORAY for already-cut squares!! 🤩🥳🎉

[@RobertTaylor-dn7kq]

I LOVE your quilt stories….they tell the story a what a generous, thoughtful and loving person you are. I am just cutting squares for my second checkerboard quilt for a special couple in Florida (red, black and white)… you are right, it’s such a joy to create, and reminisce about the previous life of all the fabrics used in my first quilt. There’s something very satisfying about the perfection of the corners meeting on all those little squares…you are not alone as a reforming perfectionist 😂 Thank you again 💚 Annette

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Annette! ❤ we reforming perfectionists have to encourage each other!! And good luck on your checkerboard quilt-I bet it will be beautiful! ❤

[@PaperDiva67]

What a beauty!!! Sometimes you just gotta suck it up and get the grim reaper out, however in the end it makes you feel so good to see the project go how you originally wanted it to. I personally love the controlled scrappy look. It takes a lot more effort but the heat wants what the heart wants 😂❤. Thanks for the twill tip. I typically cut my bindings on the bias if possible so it’s great to know that the stretch is in there! Love your quilt stories❤!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Adrienne! ❤ “the heart wants what the heart wants”-isn’t that the TRUTH. Preach it! 🤩🤓😍 Let me know if you use twill for a binding! I’m curious to see if you enjoy working with it like I do!🤓👍🏻

[@annerankin1191]

I laughed out loud at “sammich”. That’s what we called sandwiches…which quickly devolved to “sammies”. Your point about perfection and what matters to you is so important. There is a difference between perfection and excellence and it is so important that we remember that! XO

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I lol'd at "sammich" too when I watched the edit. Sometimes those misspeaks are just the best!!

[@sherryedwards5978]

Lovely work and fabric. Thank you for the backstory.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

thank you, Sherry!

[@maryhollenbach4966]

I feel much the same about making quilts. When you talk about quilting, I think you speak for many of us. You put so much love into every one. I’m quilt for charity for the most part I wish I could send some pictures of my thrifted shirt quilts especially.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh Mary, that is so wonderful! ❤️ If you're on instagram or FB you can send me a message with photos. 😊👍🏻

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

This is my favorite quilt story so far!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thanks, Beth! 😘

[@judyallhands3361]

Loved this story. I have done a quilt from pillowcases from the thrift store. Next time I'll look for shirts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do love to get pillowcases from the thrift store and use them in quilting too---a surprising amount of fabric in them! 🤩

[@doloresnash287]

Loved the story!! When I moved from Kansas to Florida 5 yrs ago my oldest sister had a box of old quilt pieces from our Grandma and our Mama. The pieces my Mama cut were about 4"sq. Some a little more or less🤣 A lot were already patched together. So I put together two lap quilts, one for each of my sisters. I saved the rest for me. All fabrics were out of fabrics Mama had made our dresses out of. Such fun remembering all the fabrics. My oldest Sister Darleen passed away almost two years ago now. I have her lap quilt back now so it has extra treasures for my memories. I still have a few squares and some wedding ring pieces my Grandma had so I will figure out how to put those together! Thanks for stirring up memories for me!❤💔❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, Dolores, what a wonderful story of your Mama and Grandma and your sisters! 🥰 Thank you for sharing---those memories are so rich with feelings (I love your emoji hearts. perfect descriptors!) I think for those of us who quilt, fabric brings back memories the way smells do! It just all comes back in a flood!❤️

[@julias.8236]

What a lovely story you had to tell. As you said: go for big if you want to... My third quilt I started was a grandmothers flowergarden with hexagons sewn together completely by hand. Took me a bit over 10 years to finish (with some longer stops during the making), but I loved to process. Since you also always ask for shirt friendly patterns: maybe you'd like to check out the mirrow mirrow pattern from Jordan Fabrics. I used a shirt fabric in mine (still in progress). I made it smaller (18 instead of 32 strips) version but just used a sleeve and a front panel of my shirt, so a full size would have been possible as well.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Julia! 🥰 I cannot imagine doing a grandmother's flower garden (and as a third quilt, no less!😱) but KUDOS to you for finishing it! Who cares how many years it took?! 🤩 Thank you for the quilt pattern suggestion! I will check it out---and you're right I do always ask so I'm truly grateful for you sharing and also giving a little feedback on how/why it would work! ❤️

[@mpete2525]

Mostly what goes on in our heads, as quilter's, about quilting.... stays there and we ponder it from time to time and wonder... Unless, of course, we are involved with other quilter's which is certainly a blessing. I'm so blessed to have found you for many reasons but one is that you've brought to light many issues that I say, "Cathy, you've nailed it!" Specifically about perfection that can never be "on this side of Heaven" vs "I want to fix this quilt bc I want to for whatever reason.... Perfection is never reached. Love this story, Cathy..... Many blessings!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Meyrick! ❤️ I believe that most of us have a lot of questions, self-doubt and thoughts that never get voiced (as you mentioned)--it's a goal of mine to ask--or say--out loud the thoughts and questions that I have so that others won't feel alone in it! 🤓😘

[@shawnaleewhitney6630]

Lovely in every way.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shawnalee! ❤️

[@suemacfarlane7372]

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that quilt!!! Thank you so much for sharing x

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sue!❤

[@valerievesper9216]

😂 I don’t do random either. But my version is more to lay out all the blocks as they come and then rearrange until I’m happy with them. This is a beautiful quilt!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Valerie! ❤️ I think a LOT of us don't do random. And that's just fine by me! 😘

[@terrymannbluemoonsoapco.1377]

Thank you Miss. Kathy, I truly enjoy your quilt stories. BTW, I bought my first men's shirt today. It's a lovely butter yellow in what looks to be XXXL MFG in Canada. I think I will save the maker tag and future maker tags... Might be interesting to work them in somehow. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Terry! ❤️ I love those butter yellow shirts and buy them a LOT! I hope you enjoy working with your shirt fabric! 🤓😍

[@ritamcgill1353]

Oh my goodness! So excited to see this story. I am currently in process cutting 2 1/2 inch squares for this exact quilt. I’m using scraps from all of the various quilts I’ve made, many of which I have gifted. It will be my own memory quilt of my work and gifts to my family!

[@andreasavedge3276]

What a wonderful idea! As the quilter we deserve at least one (2, 3?) memory quilts. I’m a newbie, 3 and 3/4 quilts done so far. I’m going to start a fabric stash tomorrow with fabrics from those quilts. I’ll make notes of who they were for and when they were completed. Thank you for my memory quilt of the future.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Rita, this is the BEST IDEA EVER. 🤓 If I was ever going to do a quilt-along, this would be the one with this as the theme. We need memories of the quilts we make for our own joy and happiness (and to remember the love!❤️)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Andrea, YES, this was my exact feeling! "Thank you for my memory quilt of the future" *Perfectly* said.

[@brendafrye5875]

Better the second time. Beautiful. I have just started ripping out quilting on a quilt that is 2 years old. I have made many quilts that have multiple imperfections but with this one I just could not let it go. So I understand your craziness. Your quilt is absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Brenda! ❤️ I wondered if I'd get a lot of comments saying the opposite, like, "Why would you DO THAT?" so it is such a relief to know there are so many of us out here who are willing to seam reap and unpick quilting for the sake of doing it RIGHT. 🤓🥰

[@sophiastamatis9235]

Beautiful quilt! What’s missing is a good book, a cuppa something and maybe a blazing fire.❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Sophia! ❤️

[@lauracurnan3255]

Thanks for the background story. We all love the stories behind our quilts of LOVE. Working on one now. For a coworker who now is Heart ♥ Daughter. Have a great day. See you next time.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Laura! ❤ I love that you call your coworker your “heart daughter!” 🥰

[@debrat777]

That’s a beautiful quilt and story! Thanks for sharing. And I can say that quilting has done something similar for me. High stress job, constant busyness and other things. Quilting has been a great stress reliever for me.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

SUCH a great stress reliever! Aren't we lucky to have quilting?! ❤️🥰🤓

[@nevafitzgerald2402]

Good morning MS Cathy and all🌞love how you what to show the love for your friend in such a beautiful way,though your awesome talent that the lord above has bestowed to you .this is truly a wonderful EASTER STORY🐇🐇🐇🐇🐣🐣🐣🐣🕊🕊🕊🕊🕊 keep on quilting my friend ,I think I rip more then I actually want to admit .I just got finisher with top and ended ripping it all out because I wasn't happy with the out come. Quilting is challenging when one is so anel lol ❤ love your work Cathy don't stop !!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, sweet Neva!!❤️ When you said that it's an Easter story, I thought, "YESSSS!!!! IT IS!" (also I rip out more than I want to admit, too. but getting better about it! 😂) I have to remember: progress not perfection!! 🤓🥰

[@pennyskelton1851]

I ordered Sunday Morning Quilts. I love it so much. I found shirts for 99 cents today.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

How wonderful!! ❤️ So glad you love the book---it is truly one of my favorites!

[@cindyhappel7376]

What a great quilt story! Your friend is a lucky lady!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cindy! ❤️ And thanks for watching and commenting! 🥰

[@Moni221960]

I just love all your videos - Monica from Australia

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you Monica!

[@loribrock991]

Love. Gorgeous. and that name - brilliant.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Lori! ❤️

[@delappcatherined9041]

One of the most moving remarks I heard on the Gees Bend video was one of the makers talking about how thinking about color and fabric shapes she was going to use, got the quilter through her very difficult work.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ohhhh.....such a kindred spirit. When work is hard, or Life stretches me, color and fabric is almost always a help. ❤️

[@pattijacobs1]

Love this quilt! Now I know why I have been collecting shirts!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right!? It may the most perfect quilt pattern for shirts, EVER. ❤️

[@destrygraves]

Now I want to make a checkerboard quilt. I think with 4 patches that I have been making as leaders. I have been looking for an idea to go with the capital letter T block. I want just one giant T on the back. Yours is beautiful. I love so much that you go the extra mile. The quilt will be around for ever. I’m positive that your friend can feel the love.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Destry---it was really so fun! As it started coming together, I would lay the sewn rows on my own bed and just go, "ohhhh!" from delight! I love the idea of having a giant T on the back! 🤩 How fun! ❤️

[@destrygraves]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts for Tanner. It makes more sense when you know it’s for a name. Lol.

[@angelamyers1201]

I don't do random well either. I can't meander quilt because invariably, it ends up looking like I'm quilting on a grid. My brain needs order, I guess. Ha! Your controlled random ended up looking lovely!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I have FOUND MY PEOPLE. 🤩🤓 Thank you for that! ❤️ My husband teases me and tells me I need a tattoo that says, "order is joy." (which it is!) Thank you for the kind words! 🥰

[@ShirleyDeeDesigns]

I chuckle when I think of my first quilt. I naively chose a king sized 8 point star pattern, and I had no rotary cutter or cutting mat. I cut out my pieces with a card board template. I hand quilted it and am surprised I continued to quilt after that!! 🤪

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I'm surprised that you continued to quilt after that, too!😂 MERCY! 😱🤓🤩

[@pammeinzer6757]

Love to watch your talks. Enjoy.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pam!❤️

[@angelroost]

BTW, I love your quilt and the story behind it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you!

[@pennyskelton1851]

You are such a joy. What a beautiful meaningful quilt. I am enjoying your videos so much. My niece has 2 quilts made from the home made clothes my mom made me. I have been shopping for shirts and it has been fun.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Penny! 🥰 I bet your niece cherishes those quilts! 😍 I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos and I'm glad you're here with me in this space! ❤️

[@marlenebaska5774]

Beautiful quilt, and beautiful story. Thank you for sharing.💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Marlene! ❤️🥰

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

Great quilt story Cathy. I also don't do random. I actually call it organized random. Lol. I'm so glad you decided to do your quilting channel for your sheer joy of quilting and sharing it with all your fans. I am so glad it has helped you as a stress reliever. When you mentioned your previous work place I could visibly see the pain on your face but in the next instant lught up when talking about the quilt. We so appreciate you sharing bits and pieces of your life with us. Can't wait for next video. P.S. How did your dad like his quilt?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nettie, my Dad loved it! When he opened up the package he said, "ALL RIGHT!!" like maybe he had been wanting one and finally got it! 🥰 And yes, when I watched the edit for this video, I saw that pain on my face too---I told Paul that this was probably the most serious I've been in a video---but that's a big part of me, too.😊🤓 Thank you so much for your continued support---I feel all the love and I'm sending my love right back to you! ❤️

[@marshasetering3143]

Beautiful quilt and I love the colors and simplicity of it. Great story. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Marsha! 🥰❤️ Thank YOU for watching and commenting! Glad to have you here! 😘

[@yoshiew05]

I have had to piece the backs on my quilts too. I love that because small amount of scraps

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Pieced backs are sometimes my favorite part of the quilt.❤️

[@yoshiew05]

Like an extra quilt!

[@carmenbailey1560]

Thank you that was a beautiful story. We all know our beginnings and I’m not far from that right now. Again Thanks 👍❤️😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carmen! ❤️

[@dougandsuepflum7526]

Great therapy!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sue, YES! ❤️

[@lindapawlak8166]

Random is impossible for me, also! I think most type A, “perfectionistic” people find it difficult, if not impossible, to be random about ANYTHING, lol. I’m also a weaver (beginner) and my patterns are always symmetric! I guess we can’t change our stripes; but I bet they are symmetric! Thanks once again for the inspiration!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Linda! ❤️ I feel like I've found all these kindred spirits (like you!) when I read comments like this! 🥰 I too, love a symmetrical design. It just makes me feel peaceful and happy inside.🤓😘

[@carolg.6838]

That's funny, the strjpes you cannot change are probably symmetrical. I was a caregiver to Patrick, a brown tabby feral cat with very dark stripes. His markings were symmetrical even across one leg to the other. Before I named him Patrick, I thought of Patton, General Patton, who had so many military stripes.

[@Plentyofyarn]

I loved this story. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

[@freddiehansen7324]

Love the story AND the quilt :) I also can not do random, it just doesn't work for me. Just like I couldn't add ransom spices to food I just can't do it with fabric either. I want it "just right". Quilting is such a joy. And yes, finding green shirts is realllllllly hard lol. I don't get it, green is a lovely color on most people!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I've had the same thought about green shirts---why are there so few of them and why are they not pretty greens?! I just don't get it!! 🤷🏻‍♀️ And thank you!! I feel like I've found my people---all of us who want it "right" and can't do random!! I feel so understood! ❤️🥰

[@freddiehansen7324]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I have actually started buying my husband green shirts, used to go more blues but not anymore :) and yes, random...is such a no-no. I like it when others do it, but I can't do it. I have tried and I spend more time nitpicking it and it wasn't an enjoyable experience. So, organized chaos is as close as I can get to "random". lol

[@patricehemmi9101]

Wonderful story 😊 I bought the book you mentioned, enjoying it so much! Looking forward to organizing my scraps after I finish quilting the 4 QOV quilt tops that are my current project 😊.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Patrice! ❤️ I'm so glad to hear you love the book!! (I need to organize my scraps too!😱)

[@kimberlybecker7563]

Love this ❤ so very thoughtful 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@cherylwampole4172]

Hi from Texas !

[@janetdinatale9861]

The only thing that would make me love that quilt more would be if it was made with linen. Ohhh. 😉

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?! I'm working on one of those right now, actually! 😘

[@pammeinzer6757]

How beautiful! I love how you love the material!! I will plan on making one of these. Thanks again!!! Btw, I am from Arkansas.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pam! ❤️ You will be surprised at how enjoyable it is to make this quilt even though it means cutting thousands of 2.5" X 2.5" squares!

[@carmencreamer3769]

Love it!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carmen! 🥰

[@maryhollenbach4966]

What a heartbreaking requilt you had to get through. I’ve been there, and learned to take my time with certain things.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Heartbreaking. But worth it! 👍🏻