Finally...and without further ado...here we have the last of the state flower quilt blocks: the ever lovely Lilac for New Hampshire. Whew!
And without wasting any more time, I've got all my squares lined-up and I think I am ready to stitch! Thinking it over, I've decided to use the 54 Block Layout #1, as I think this size and shape will fit best on the wall I plan to hang this finished quilt on. The PDF for the different quilt sizes and layout options can be downloaded here: QUILT DIAGRAMS #2963 if you need it. (The blocks are all laid out in alphabetical order, so even if you are using your own layout, it can still be used as a guide to save time.)
I really like this flower block. The Lazy Daisy stitch is fun to do and is effective in creating the dainty blossoms. I used various shades of lilac, purple, and pink to give this a little more dimension. Pictures from my backyard garden show a couple of color variations.
The lilac (syringa vulgarius) has purple, white, or pink blossoms that grow in hanging clusters, and bloom primarily in May. Their fragrance is legendary. The very essence of springtime sweetness. There are actually more than a thousand different species of lilac, and they can live for hundreds of years. Their nectar provides food for bees, hummingbirds and butterflies. Mine have reached the 20-foot high mark already and have spread to about 15-feet wide. Lilacs are originally from Europe and Asia, and they date back to the 1750's in recorded history. For New Hampshire's state flower, the apple blossom, purple aster, wood lily, mayflower, goldenrod, wild pasture rose, evening primrose, and the buttercup were all considered--but because the purple lilac symbolizes the hardy men and women of the Granite State, it was adopted on May 28, 1919. And aren't we glad it was too, because it is a beautiful addition to this flower quilt!
COLORS: petals--purple/pink shades of #316; centers--tangerine #3609; leaves--med. green range #3363; lettering--smoke gray #645.
I'm off to the sewing machine now. . .
Thank you so much for posting the State Flowers. I appreciate the time that you have devoted to doing this great gift for your readers. I have found just how wonderful quilters and embroiderers are to their fellow human beings, since finding Blogs and Hobby sites. Sending blessings your way.
Posted by: Sarah | August 17, 2011 at 11:10 AM
I love every single block, can't wait to see the finished product:)
Posted by: Bridgette | August 17, 2011 at 01:06 PM
Congrats on finishing the embroidery. It's beautiful! I can't wait to see the finished quilt. Thank you so much for sharing these wonderful patterns with us. I started in June and I'm working on my 15th square right now.
Posted by: Tiffany | August 17, 2011 at 05:15 PM
Thank you for including all those diagrams. That's very helpful. Just when I think I've decided a thing... And thank you most especially for all the work you've done on this project thus far and to share it with your readers. So generous of you! Don't forget to thank your assistant for me, too.
Posted by: Vee | August 18, 2011 at 05:43 AM
I have enjoyed seeing each and every flower you have embroidered, as well as reading about the history. It has been a beautiful journey. I can't wait to see your finished project hanging on your wall.
Searching through your archives, I found your blackberry cobbler recipe and made it for my family. They loved it! Thank you for all that you have given us. You are truely a blessing.
Posted by: Velma | August 18, 2011 at 02:06 PM
You are absolutely right. This is a perfect finish, and a perfect flower!
Posted by: Mom Wald's Place | August 19, 2011 at 06:15 PM
Oh my goodness what a beautiful project, am excited to see the finished quilt :)
Karen
Posted by: KarensKrafts | August 19, 2011 at 11:27 PM
How nice to end up with one of the most magnificent flowers in appearance and aroma. I have lavender, purple and white here on our farm and adore them. Have you popped over to see my blog pix from my camping trip? Hope so!
((hugs)), Teresa :-)
Posted by: Teresa Kasner | August 20, 2011 at 05:40 PM
How lovely!! I live in this beautiful state and love lilacs. One of NH's state songs is "Where the Purple Lilacs Grow". Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Mrs.T | August 30, 2011 at 11:02 AM