I started and finished 2 quilts this year that were both challenging and ones I'm most proud of. I waited to start these until I had a bit more applique experience and just went for it..
The first is my Sylvia Bridal Sampler. It took me 4 mos to do. I designed the applique border. I did flange binding and added lace. I had a lot of encouragement from other board members to keep going.
The second quilt I started immediately following the first one. It is Green Tea & Sweet Beans by Jen
Kingwell. Love her crazy busy patterns. This took me about 6 weeks from start to finish.