Quilting Controversy

 

     Yesterday as I pondered on what my next post would be, a few things popped in my head. The thought of posting a picture of a pile of scraps with a few pictures of some hopeful projects came to mind, as has been done on other blogs. The idea of sharing the kids baptism on Easter was another thought. However, I really wanted to post something somewhat significant as I attempt to build a following. Not that my kids baptism wasn't a very special and significant event, it just wasn't right for my next post for "The Quilting Diaries". The next idea that popped in my head seemed to be a great idea, but it seems that it may cause a little controversy for my new blog.

So what is this great idea? 

     Being that I am an African American women who quilts and my grandmother Ina Bell King is still quilting at 90years of age, "The History of African American Quilting" would be great.  Some may be thinking "that's a great idea," right?  As I began to do a little research by way of Google, I came across Quilting Codes,one of many sites on the topic.  Quilting Codes is a theory that quilts/quilting blocks were used to help slaves in the Underground Railroad.  This is something that I vaguely remembered hearing about, so I began to do some digging.  It turns out that this topic is one surrounded by great controversy. National Geographic even took interest. Some say it is true and others say it is a myth.
   
     As I have become somewhat new to the world of quilting and quilt/sew blogging, I have not seen a lot of African American quilt bloggers.  Even though there are tons of African American quilters, this topic seemed to be a great way to peak the interest of others. I feel as though I am now obligated to follow through with my idea of "The History of African American quilting" without shying away from the controversy.  With that being said, I will be posting "The History of African American Quilting". My hope is that I can write about what I find and my opinion on those findings will  be respected as my opinion.

     If nothing else this will be a great history lesson for the boys and I.

DIY

I have discovered that I am good with my hands. When it comes to fixing things around the house, I'm your girl. J Quilting, of course, is my first love; however, I have fallen in love with refinishing furniture, as well.  For the longest time I wanted to get rid of the 4-seater glass table in our dining room and replace it with, at least, an 8-seater wooded table.  However, we could not afford one.

So last year, I spotted an old table at a neighborhood store for only $100 but it needed some work and I needed $100.

I saved some birthday money and went back to the store and they still had it. I bought it, brought it home, and started working on it.  I’ve never attempted to do anything of this sort in my life.  The plan was to strip off all of the old paint and finish; sand it to the original wood; and re-stain the table. Sorry I did not take any pictures of every step. I will remember next time.

I was so happy when I got to this stage I just wanted to look at it.  I also became a little nervous about moving on to the staining and finishing.

 

I am so proud of the finished product. Once I finish putting all the finishing touches on the dining room, I'll post a pic of what it looks like in the room. 

Resurrection

Sunday past was the day the church celebrated the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Now, as a practicing Anglican in the making, I feel that it is only right that, during the Easter Season, I acknowledge that there are things in my life that I have put to death and buried in my life.  However, there are also some things that need resurrecting. This blog is one of many things that I will be resurrecting this season. So, journey with me and my quilting diaries. 
 

Here is a pic of my latest project. A Super Hero quilt for Israel