When the lovely people at Aurifil asked me if I'd like some of their brand new 8 weight thread to have a play with, I jumped at the chance. I've been an advocate of Aurifil for many years, and as well as having 4 of my own collections I have loved experimenting with the different colours, thread weights and techniques. So I was really excited when I heard that they had released an 8 weight thread!
Hand quilting is one of my favourite techniques and the thicker weight of the 8 weight thread lends itself perfectly to hand quilting.
As it happened I had some of Suzy Quilt's 'Duval' collection for Art Gallery Fabrics, which was the perfect partnering for the Aurifil 8 weight, given that it is Suzy herself who has launched the 8 weight collection! So I set about making a pillow using simple half square triangles.
Next it was to the fun part, the hand quilting! The threads matched perfectly, and I decided to quilt in a diamond formation, either side of the seams.
It was a joy to stitch with the 8 weight. I love the additional definition that the thicker thread gives, and it really makes a feature of the quilting. The thread has a wonderful feel to it, and it glided easily through the patchwork and batting. I was thrilled with the final result.
Let me share some close ups.
For the back of the pillow I made a simple envelope back, and used a simple black popper to secure it in place. I think it looks pretty stylish!
Here's the pillow in my living room. It matches perfectly and might just have to stay here!
It's fair to say I'm a convert to the 8 weight Aurifil and I'm excited to get my hands on some more colours soon. I know you're going to love it too.