Originally Posted by
jcrow
I have never made a quilt without a pattern. I've been quilting since 1992 but earnestly since about 3 years ago and don't know how to go about making a quilt without a pattern. I see quilts here that people have made and like parts of them and would like to make a quilt out of the parts I like, but I'm horrible in math. I never took algebra in school...didn't have to. I don't have any fancy computer programs to help me. I know I could make an applique quilt if I just appliqued the middle and put borders around it. Couldn't put piano keys around it because I wouldn't know the right size and I can't use my useless brain to figure out how to. Any suggestions?
Jeanne, first things first - please STOP putting yourself down. Unfortunately there are plenty of others who will do it for you. Secondly - don't compare yourself with others. We should only compare ourselves to what we have done before.
If you don't like math maybe it's better for you to stick to using patterns but at 57 you are not too old to learn. I got my computer 5 years ago at 57 and have never had so much fun learning new things. It is great brain training which my psych tells me helps keep alzheimers at bay. Embrace it with gusto. Try the graph paper first, if you're not sure of things ask as many questions as you like on this board. You are welcome to PM me any time.
Lastly don't ever tell yourself you can't do something until you have tried all avenues of learning that particular thing. Have faith in yourself and you will be surprised just how much you can learn. All the best & happy quilting.