I posted a while ago that DH suggested I make a quilt for his aunt out of this fabric line.
http://www.marcusfabrics.com/cgi-bin...6&View=All&v=1

Waited for them to post a pattern using the fabric. It's just too big. I'd had a lap or at best twin size in mind.
http://www.marcusfabrics.com/makeit/...ide_summer.pdf


I'd like to incorporate all of the fabrics except for the last 4 shown. I'd like to focus on the hydrangeas and the blue shells and use the border fabric in some way. Maybe the lighthouses too. Given the size of these elements, I'd probably have to fussy cut them at 6" square.

Any suggestions as to a pattern style that might work? (Am doing OK picking fabric for a pattern but a total newbie at picking a pattern for the fabric.)

Or would it be possible to make this more rectangular lengthwise by resizing the borders and removing one length of blocks on the right and the left?

TIA

I would make the pattern designed for the line. I like square quilts.

Why exclude that stripe? It's fabulous!

I would resize the blocks, but leave it square. If you want it more rectangle, add a row at the top and bottom. It wouldn't look as nice if you leave off the side rows. You would loose the diamond effect with the yellow triangle points.

I would use the fabrics you like and use that pattern. Possibly just the center section and border it with the fabric of your choice. You never have to follow a pattern exactly as shown. Make it the size you want. then bot you and your DH will be happy. I'm sure your DHs Aunt will love it, too.

Love the fabric and the pattern. As Tropical said just use the center and then small borders.

mltquilt

How about disappearing 9 patch? That highlights pretty fussy cuts nicely and is much easier than it looks.
Nell

I quite like the pattern, but you could tweak it to customise it to your own taste and size requirements I too like the stripe and think it could add a bit of zing. One thing I find a little puzzling....what have hydrangeas got to do with a seaside theme? If it were me, I would probably leave the hydrangeas out...but maybe I am just being peculiar.

Anyway, let us know how you get on...the fabrics are lovely and as you know ....we love pics. Look forward to seeing what you come up with - happy quilting.

Thank you all for your suggestions. I will look at modifying the pattern. And also at the disappearing 9 patch. I think that might be a really good choice to highlight what I want to in this quilt. The border stripe will definitely be included since I love that fabric.

Earthwalker - re: the hydrangeas - don't disagree with your thoughts. But DH's aunt lives two blocks from the ocean and her house is surrounded by hydrangeas, which are her favorite flowers. So this was perfect for her.

Seems like this fabric line was put together just for your husband's aunt. It's going to knock her socks off when you give it to her.