Many months ago I created a peacock applique center block for the second session of Spring Fling Round Robin. I was influenced by this quilt, this embroidery, and of course by an actual peacock here. Also I was told that the final recipient wanted a quilt that was inspired by Kim McLean's Princess Feathers Quilt. I was constrained by how to make a peacock fit into an 8" square so I opted not to make a more realistic bird and instead chose to stylize it a bit more like that first quilt inspiration piece. Many sketches and tweaks later I came up with this:
With the exception of the face detail, it's all traditional applique. I made a plastic template from the top row center feather and made all ten plumes the same shape. That was a lot easier than trying to make precise templates for each placement. I also chose to make one leaf template and repeat it. I used the perfect circles for the berries and opted to use raw edge applique for the face details with lots of machine embroidery over it. At first I was going to make a center contrast for each feather but decided that the materials were so pretty on their own they didn't need it. I was a bit disappointed to see that one of the later RR partners decided to add their own circle appliques to it.
That very first block was lost in the mail so I had to make a second one ... fortunately the first one surfaced and became a gorgeous quilt. Sadly the second one is lost in the mail service and has yet to make an appearance. Here's a picture for the curious:
Isn't it interesting how this one had a bit of a different expression? I suspect that's mainly because it's beak was placed more downward.
Now that it's home with Lil I can show you what the finished quilt looks like (this is Lil's picture):
Sharon made the first border, Luisa did the second, and Julia did the fabulous quilting. Didn't they do a fantastic job?
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Now here's a freebie for anyone who wants to make a peacock of their own:
Here's the file Download Peacock Applique quilt block by Tami Levin. Have fun with it and please show me pictures of your versions!
Oh, that is so beautiful!
And I curse the mail service! Unless of course they inadvertently sent it to me. ;)
Posted by: oldschoolacres | January 07, 2009 at 07:32 PM
this looks great! the colors are so bright and fun! :)
Posted by: Diana @ The Chic Life | January 08, 2009 at 04:42 PM
It is a beautiful applique Tami. Nice work! Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Heera | January 09, 2009 at 03:46 AM
I just love your Peacock can I use it to make a quilt for myself? Teeanolia
Posted by: Teeanolia | March 24, 2009 at 02:14 PM
WOW WOW !! This is a gorgeous surprise! I can't say enough! but I'd sure like to know how (...er...rather who) these keep getting lost in the mail.
Posted by: Lyndaleen | April 23, 2009 at 10:08 AM
Just beautiful! I am following your blog now. Also, I included this link in my blog so others can find you. What an inspiration. -- Alice w/ WonderlandShoppe
Posted by: WonderlandShoppe | July 14, 2009 at 01:41 AM
Please check out my interpretation of your peacock quilt block pattern. I am calling mine a "Bird of Paradise". This was fun to make! I am already thinking of other color options to do. Thanks -- Alice with WonderlandShoppe The link is here: http://wonderlandshoppe.blogspot.com/
Posted by: WonderlandShoppe | July 20, 2009 at 02:12 PM
Was it insured? If not, USPS is unreliable. I prefer UPS or FedEx or any company that tracks packages by computer.
Posted by: Ava Hart | August 03, 2009 at 07:09 PM
just found this block on a Peacock applique,something I,ve always wanted to do - much appreciated - thank you so much for sharing.
Vernie uk
Posted by: irene vernon | September 02, 2009 at 12:16 AM
Oh, Thank you so much! I've been looking for just the right peacock illustration to turn into an applique for a dress I'm making. Your design is perfect!
Posted by: Tonya Yarwood | October 24, 2009 at 11:55 AM
We have algo made another wild turkey work. Just wanted to show you:
www.labuhardilladetati.blogspot.com
Cheers!!!
Posted by: lidia | January 09, 2010 at 11:40 AM
Oh. How wonderful. I have never made a quilt. But I will be trying this.I love it.
Posted by: Marge Reppenhagen | March 30, 2010 at 06:09 PM
Details on your "inspiration" quilt, with a closeup photo as well, can be found at http://www.realizations-mt.com/clients.php?index=152#pagetop. We like this client's quilt so well, we used the photo as the banner on our client gallery page.
Posted by: Larye Parkins | April 01, 2010 at 07:27 AM
I have always loved peacocks and this looks great. I am going to make one for myself. I usually give everything away.
Posted by: Shirley | April 22, 2010 at 08:43 AM
Very kind of you to share the pattern of an adorable peacock.
Posted by: Jasmine | May 26, 2010 at 06:00 AM
Your peacock is very beautiful . Thanks for sharing with us . Good bless you .
kisses from Brazil.
Liliane
Posted by: Liliane | September 04, 2010 at 12:46 PM
WOWWOWWOW!!! Love it, those blue just really make it all pop!!!
Blessings,Flora
Posted by: Flora Thompson | September 10, 2010 at 12:39 PM