Well, it's certainly been a learning experience and there are a lot of flaws, but I've finished my first quilt. After what I have read since I started it, I sure did it the hard way!

Anyway, my husband is a Civil War History nut, so I made this as a surprise for his birthday (April 10). The man can't even thread a needle, so I know he won't notice anything - and even if he did he would be too kind to say so (or too wise after being married to me for 39 years). The underside is a beige print with small American flags on it.

Thanks, ladies (and gentleman) you have taught me a lot.

Now, to take what I learned and going on to the Texas Bluebonnet!

Well, I think you did an awesome job and I also think I have some of that backing fabric you talked about!! I put some in a quilt for my dad (who is a WWII vet!)

Very nice, from a NY yankee

Nina,
I downloaded your picture so I could enlarge it to see if the stars were a fabric or appliqued on. (Nosey!) Nice job.
I love the quilting also. The hand quilting doesn't show in the smaller picture and I recommend everyone download the picture and look at that great quilting! Awesome!
Looking forward to seeing those bluebonnets come alive!
Happy Stitching!

Nina, that quilt is just fabulous! Wish you could send up a picture of the look on your husband's face when he sees it. Wow!

Yvonne, the stars are appliqued with a satin stitch. So are the stripes. I tried to piece them and couldn't make it work. Have been looking on the web for instructions for stars but have not yet found them. Haven't had too much time to look, though because I have a major craft festival I participate in every April and am hustling getting ready for it.

Leslee, our older son said he expects to be in town (unless the Air Force sends him on another one of those short notice trips out of state) and offered to take photos. If one comes out, I'll be glad to show you.

You guys are very supportive of everyone on the site. It really helps those of us learning. Thanks.

quote=Nina] Have been looking on the web for instructions for stars but have not yet found them. [/quote]

Ask and you shall receive.

http://desktoppub.about.com/od/paper/ss/5pointstar_4.htm

http://www.quiltingboard.com/posts/list/539.page

Your quilt is wonderful. Who are you trying to kid thats its your first quilt. You realy did an awsome job. Keep up the beauitful work.