Quilt-Along # 39: Quilting in Sections with Matrix - Section 4 of "50 Fabulous Stars" Quilt

Leah's article last week about Quilt Busting was so timely for me.  These blocks are from Carol Doak's book and CD, 50 Fabulous Paper Pieced Stars. I have been working on them with a group on the Quilting Board, since January of this year. 

This is a 90" x 90" paper pieced quilt comprised of forty nine 12" blocks, which I have broken down into 7 sections.   The photo below shows the center section and it measures 36" x 36."  I think the all-over Matrix on this was a good choice for the very center of the quilt.

I had used Matrix before on a single 15" block and had even marked every line.  On this larger scale it was very scary and, as I quilted, I had doubts about having attempted it. Now that it is done, however, I am quite pleased with it.   There are many thick seamed intersections in this quilt and Matrix made it fairly easy to skirt around these.

At first I was turning the piece at the end of each line of stitching, then remembered seeing Leah quilt into the batting, break thread and start again at the top.  This allowed me to keep the bulk of the piece to the left of the needle, was much easier, and went faster.

Stitched on this larger scale, the quilt feels much softer than the others I have FMQ'd.  I have a tendency to "quilt them to death."  I am trying hard to let go of that on this quilt.

Leah, bring it on, I am ready for the next Quilt Buster, as I have six more sections to go.