Directional Prints and Subtle Stripes
 

Sometimes they are not obvious -

I had this small print and just assumed that the birds were in a "tossed" (going in all directions) layout. The aren't. The print is small enough that I may just leave the pieces as is. I am annoyed at myself for not noticing that sooner, though.

I have also noticed that some "all-over" prints are designed in bands or strips. the It can be really noticeable in wide borders when three of the borders have the roses centered in the strips and the fourth one doesn't. Thank you to a Quilter's Newsletter magazine cover for making me aware of that.

I avoid them at all costs. But, every now and again I will come across a directional print pattern that will peak my interest. But, haven't gone that route yet. Maybe someday.

Yes, one has to be very careful!

In the borders I decide how the directional fabric I am using, will look the best and cut accordingly. That gets cut first. In the quilt, if it is a small print, I will let them turn every which way so the quilt isn't directional. If they are a part of an HST, I evaluate where they will be placed and cut specifically. Do I use a lot of stripes or directional fabric? Not unless I just love the fabric and it is the "just" right color for the quilt I am working.

I love working with stripes and typically don't have an issue, except that I hate wide fabrics that have fewer than 4 good repeats.

But my direction challenge is fish. I have a "no dead fish" policy and all fishes must be upright or at least going up and down and not floating. That can get super challenging...

You gave me a chuckle, Iceblossom. I like the "no dead fish" policy. I'll have to remember that.

Leslie

I agree with Iceblossom - 'no dead fish'.. Recently, I made a cute baby quilt with a fabric that had little whales and I was determined that they were all to be alive and floating well! So, for me, it was 'no dead whales'!

I like working with them as they give that extra challenge and visual appeal when done well. Plus, since a lot a quilter's shy away from them, the clearance racks at quilt shops tend to be very stocked with stripes. Chevrons, and geometric prints.

Yes, the directions must match in my world. I also match repeats as in the large rose hits at the same point on each side of the border. Please don't cut off the petals either. LOL.

Of course, no dead fish unless it on the dinner table. (The boys are out fishing tonight and I'm waiting up for a report.)

Mine is "no chopped up birds"