Sunday, November 07, 2010

November 7

Snakes and LaddersI've been wanting to make this project since, oh, 1994, when it appeared in Vol 10, No 6 of Handmade Magazine. I loved that magazine! I have many issues from the 90s, and refer to them often for gift ideas. It's still published, but it's a very different beast now. Around 1999 something happened; there was a redesign and the caliber of the projects changed dramatically. Did it stop being published by The Australian Women's Weekly, perhaps? I no longer found it inspirational, so let my subscription lapse.

Anyway, this Snakes* & Ladders quilt/game was designed by Maria Ragan, who had lots of bold, colourful projects in those early issues. Whatever happened to Maria Ragan? She was such a talented designer. Is she still out there? Any Aussie internet peeps heard of her?

This project was a LOT of work. Like, 20 hours worth. More than I usually invest in a gift, that's for sure. But I really, really like it, and am very happy that I spent the weekend making it. Added bonus: it was made entirely from my stash! Size is approx 60" x 45" (150cm x 112cm).

*Apparently American kids don't play Snakes & Ladders. They play Chutes & Ladders. Less scary, I suppose.

8 comments:

Glenda said...

That is SO cool!! What a sweet gift.

Yes, Chutes & Ladders is how I've always seen it here in the States. I think the snakes make a much more fun quilt, though ;-).

Annie said...

Wow. wow. wow. Such a fabulous gift!! and stash busting, such a wonderful feeling :)

I love this!!

By the way in Canada we play with snakes too ;)

Alison said...

Love the snakes - you're so organised re Christmas - we have almost given up with it here - it never seems right in the summer anyway. Take a look at the arm chair I've re-upholstered - very fun. Sorry about your leg!

Tui Cook said...

LOVE IT!!!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful! What a productive weekend. Louise

deb did it said...

Hashi, this is so darn cute! What a priceless gift and labor of love!

sol da eira said...

Very nice! I don't know the game but I'm sure kids will love it. Great work!

alisha said...

I would love to make one of these! Would you be willing to share the pattern with me? or tell me where I might be able to purchase? I'm guessing the magazine is out of print now, if it's from '94...
Thanks
alisha@netidea.com