I'm not sure how this quilter did hers but there is a series of books (and kits) using a technique that achieves this 3 dimensional look. It uses a type of stabilizer that bends and allows your shapes to curve. I apologize for my vague description but my old mind can't remember her name at the moment. I think if you search the web for 3 dimensional quilt patterns you'll easily find the author/quilter. She recently moved her business from Cape Cod, mass to Florida.