Kriscraft asked me awhile ago if I would be willing to make a quilt for her to give to her DSIL. The quilt was to be made form her Brother's shirts as he has passed. She couldn't bring herself to do it....I understood completely.

However, I knew I didn't have the time needed to dedicate to that project...and called upon my friend Jeri. Jeri was willing to take on the task. we got info from Kris of what kinds of designs, patterns, and types of things her brother and DSIL liked. Then Jeri was left on her own to create. I think she did a wonderful job and put in many special details for all involved. What an undertaking and a beautiful memory.

I had to study this quilt and think about how to quilt it because I didn't want to add to much...I didn't want to take away from it either. I had to be careful because there are really bulky seams. Jeri had to foundation piece all of the shirts( to muslin) because she wanted it to be sturdy and not all the shirts were easy to work with...in the end it is all textures...and designs to compliment each block. I added water designs...stipple....I wanted to make that four patch in the middle of each border blend in with all the pin wheels ...so I quilted it to look like a pinwheel to match the others.

I have to say that unexpected things happen when you are involved in a project like this....Your heart grows another inch so to say...and I am truly honored to be a part of it.....The trust involved in a project like this. The thought of easing a burden for one..to make another feel close to her DH...is truly a blessing. a gift for all of us. This makes my job so worth it! Thank you! I hope you all love it as much as we loved being a part of this quilting process.
Blessings!

WOW! That is gorgeous and will be cherished forever!

That is wonderful! Beautiful job!

Beautiful job, both of you

WOW is right, thats beyond beautiful. gives your heart strings a tug dont it...

Very nicely done.

I want to do something for with my brothers things as well but it's only been about 10 weeks now and I'm just not ready to take that step. So knowing that you have done that for someone else is really touching.

wow!!!! amazing work.

I just have to say that Charisma and Jeri make an amazing team!

I cannot believe the box of shirts I sent are coming back to me as this beautiful quilt. I'm sure my sister-in-law will cry when she gets it. I did when I saw the pictures. It is a very emotional piece knowing it is created from the dress shirts my brother wore to work. I'm sure it will be one of my sister-in-law's most cherished items and will bring her comfort.

Thank you so much for the special care you took of these shirts and making it a keepsake for years to come.

I look forward to working with you again in the future.

Thank you so very much for everything

Kris

I've had these shirts in my sewing room on a shelf for going on 3 years and I couldn't bring myself to make the quilt. That is why I contacted Charisma a while back and asked if she could do it. She couldn't but had a friend that was willing to take the project. I'm beyond thrilled with the end results :)

The story behind this is so special. I love that you included before and after quilting shots. I am sure KrisKrafts DSIL will be moved beyond words.