I’m a huge fan of quilting shows (betcha didn’t know that there are whole television shows dedicated to quilting!) and usually get some great ideas when I watch them.

Last month on a re-run of “Simply Quilts,” I saw a couching technique that used beads and decorative fibers (spun wool) to embellish a quilt.  I had to try it!  But rather than Mardi Gras beads or strings of funky wool, I decided to use verigated yarn.

First, some definitions.  Couching is a way of attaching bulky items to fabric, usually by sewing a zig-zag stitch back and forth over the top of the item to attach it.  It can be a long process, especially if you’re couching big items.  Verigated yarn is fiber that changes color as the ball unwinds. 

The yarn I chose was kinda fuzzy, with a verigation of green, blue and purple.  I chose my fabrics based upon the yarn colors and decided on a simple block pattern.

 By couching the yarn in a criss-cross pattern, I was able to create a more intricate look.  Also, the fuzzy yarn is soft to the touch, so the quilt is even more cozy than a regular quilt.