I’ve been an avid birdwatcher since I was a kid, always keeping my eyes glued to the skies watching for my avian neighbors. An evening sky brings a visiter. The nighthawk comes calling. His flight contrasts against a soft pastel sky. His visit always brings a moment of joy. It’s a short visit, but good to know he is a guest that will never overstay.
The magic of all the life that garden brings is my primary inspiration, but I also find inspiration antiquing. Little gems spark ideas like this vintage Arm & Hammer baking soda bird card. In the late 19th century the United States was experiencing a decline in wild bird populations. The decline was partially caused by the fashion industry. Feathers were popular adornment. The back of the cards include facts about each bird to educate and raise awareness.
“The Quilter’s Album of Blocks and Boarders” is a comprehensive guide to quilt boarders. Multiple boarder patterns worked to help define shapes. The avian appliqué is a layered collage of calico prints that mimic the intricate patterns of a nighthawk’s feathers. Following a map, the hawk was puzzled together in sections and appliquéd head to chest, chest to wings, and lastly to tail.
The garden life brings a joyful wonder. The sound of the nighthawk was a start of a playful process.
Nighty night.
Jennifer Haston Quilts 