The first group of repurposed mens ties headed into a quilt block known as the “Pineapple”. At the center is a mini block out of golds and browns (geographic colors) in the Texas Star or Lone Star pattern. It’s an old pattern, often referred to as the Mathematical Star because it’s like something from geometry class. Remember all those fun designs we got to create in school? The owner of these ties was born in Texas so this seemed very appropriate. It’s also the quilt block that says “Hospitality” which also represents him. Swirling around the center block are all the different fabrics represented in each of the ties. Much like our lives year after year, this block builds layer after layer as it goes around. I actually haven’t decided when to stop because it’s so much fun making the 8 sided block. Just a note on this process, though: Because the strips are small, I decided not to quilt over them pattern but am doing a “quilt in place”. This means, the strips are added on to a backing, batting and a gridded light interfacing to keep me balanced. It’s really easy to find yourself getting unbalanced if the angles aren’t just perfect. I like the way the Tartans are chasing each other in the design. Or, maybe the traditionals are chasing the plaids?