Balance and Symmetry in quilts

The Design Principles of Balance and Symmetry was the topic of the Inspirational Quilting program at the February Choo Choo Quilters guild meeting.

A study of asymmetrical balance was conducted using black squares of different sizes on a white background. Grayscale versions of painted masterpieces by Seurat, Vermeer and Turner (found in the Fearless Design for Every Quilter textbook) illustrated the concept of value and its influence and effect on asymmetrical compositions.

Using magazine photos of vintage and modern quilts, guild members identified the types of symmetry used in the quilts and discussed balance in both symmetrical and asymmetrical compositions.

An Amish quilt illustrates translational symmetry.

Cuddle Quilt Program

Guild members also celebrated the success of the 2010 Cuddle Quilt Quest. Large, zippered tote bags with quilt designs by contemporary quilters were awarded to the 18 members who produced the record-breaking 73 quilts. Thank you to Deb and Veronica for spearheading this effort! Volunteers are needed to issue patterns for monthly quilt blocks to continue this endeavor.

Linda's quilted Valentine she made for her husband.
See what chocolate can inspire??

Show and Tell

Linda showed us a Valentine quilt that she made for her husband. Her Team was also responsible for the meeting refreshments. Here is Linda's recipe for Ricotta Cake.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 13" x 9” pan.

Step #1: Use 1 box lemon cake mix, Duncan Hines ‘pudding in mix’ or similar type. Mix according to package directions. Put in pan and set aside.


Step #2: Beat together the following until smooth:
2 lb. tub Ricotta Cheese
3 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup sugar

Spoon mixture on top of cake batter. Bake approx. 1 hour. Serve with cool whip or sift powdered sugar on top.

Linda’s note: I made this once with a coconut cake mix and it was just as tasty. I bet any flavored cake mix would be good: strawberry, cherry, apple spice, etc. Oh, and chocolate too!