Several years ago, “oldest” sister asked me to make a Tree of Life wall hanging for her.  The cover of a book written by Nancy Johnson-Srebro titled “Big-Block Quilts by Magic” captured her interest and a helpful quilt shop owner worked with her on fabric choices.

I remember thinking one of the fabrics for the leaves was “slightly” less than beautiful.  BUT after sewing everything together, it actually became one of my favorites.  Smaller pieces can bring beauty…lesson learned!

This was one of my first attempts at machine quilting.  She requested minimal quilting so I did a “stitch in the ditch” with clear thread.

I like how the blue wall brings out all the bright colors of the leaves on the tree.

As I was preparing to write this blog, I looked through Nancy’s book again and found several patterns I’m going to try with some of the fabrics in my stash.  You’ll be reading about Big-Block Quilts by Magic again here at Gray Barn Designs!