i have LOVED this quilt from the moment i saw it in the magazine!!!! thanks for showing it... it's inspiring me to take some of my charms and find a nuetral to showcase them in.... of course Blue and White is a signature combo for me.... i have a mid arm, and can so relate to the "thread break" issues... and for the exact reason you mentioned..
Did you do these circle swirls free hand.... just fabulous!!!