In my September 19th post, I mentioned the “Left Behind” quilt pattern I bought while traveling in Alaska.  This is a mini quilt by Melinda Dale, an Alaskan designer.  Last week I decided to get started on this quilt project because I wanted to try fusible applique, a new technique for me.  Melinda’s pattern was easy to follow and it started with two different light fabrics.  One is Kona “Snow”  and the other is a sparkly print I had on hand from my quilting travels.

I fused the snow onto the background and then did some machine quilting with my walking foot.  I had fun and think I’m brave because I made wavy lines!

Next came the fun part!  I got to make the Alaskan Husky dog with the teeniest, tiniest pieces!  She turned out pretty cute and so I fused her to the snow!

I sewed around my little musher dog, changing threads several times so the thread colors matched.  Then I fused the trees and added some texture to their trunks.  I used Sulky thread for outlining and texture.  I liked sewing with this thread and was pleased with the results.

As I was getting closer to completion, I added twigs to the trees and the snow.  I drew the twigs randomly with a pencil and then sewed over the pencil lines with black Sulky thread.  Nice!  I made the leash with some decorative stitches on my machine.

To finish this fun project, I made a very skinny flange border that was 3/4 inches of gold fabric folded in half.  Next I added the black binding and that’s it!  Project complete!

“Left Behind” Designed by Melinda Dale

I think I will look for some more fusible applique projects.  This cute girl has given me inspiration!