Thanks for the input. I chose not to use printed fabric as I didn't want to use those in the charm top twice and couldn't come up with enough different ones for a boarder. Would have liked to but decided instead to do a simple plain 2" navy blue, 1/2" burnt orange strip with another 2" navy blue. I am posting a pic of the top tonight if I can get it loaded on photobucket. Jayne

Great first quilt!!! Look on your batting wrapping and it will give suggestions as to how close (or far apart) the quilting should be. The one I am using now suggests 2". I am just learning to machine quilt (about 5 years now lol) and I love anything that doesn't have to be marked. With SITD it is sometimes not easy to stay in the 'ditch', but when the quilt is washed it doesn't show as much. The scrappy Irish Chain I am making for my sister is going to be mostly quilted on the diagonal. You can always mix it up and do different quilting designs. Have Fun! Rosa

Thank you all bunches for the feedback on the border idea, I think that is what I will do then to keep it simple 6" forest green strips on sides and 6" x 6" blue squares in the corners. I love my parents, and I know they will love this quilt and it will be kept in the family for generations to come. My dad was hoping I would have it fully quilted by this Christmas, but I am no miracle worker. Later this fall after I get some projects cleared off my desk I will cut and hand-sew the border on. Then I plan to store it until closer to late winter/early spring and then start the hand-quilting of it. Ideally I would like to give it to them as their 2014 Christmas present. Best to you and thanks bunches, Sandra

It's not my design. My friend gave me the panel. She bought it to make a quilt for her son, but age caught up with her, so she gave it to me. It's a Quilt Across Texas 2011 Moda creation for a shop hop I think. The design was created by a quilt shop in Weatherford, Texas, a small town west of Ft. Worth. There was a photo still online a few months ago, but I can't find it now. The shop has been out of business for several years according to another quilt shop I called in Weatherford. So, with some help from a local quilt shop. and my online buddies, I finally got it finished. I would give credit where credit is due, but I don't know the name of the shop or the quilt designer. bkay This was the photo I found: