Kitchen Windows Quilt Preview {and a quilty tip}

Each time I finish one of these blocks, I feel a bit more giddy than the last.  I absolutely love how the fabrics look together, and each block offers it's own slightly different view into the fabrics.  I had four blocks finished when I took the photos and am up to six as of typing this post. My goal is to finish the other six this weekend. (I am averaging about 30 minutes per block, not including cutting the fabric.)

I'm still planning to use a smokey blue for the sashing and probably pink for the binding. I haven't decided on the back yet; I think I would like to use a soft flannel to make it extra cozy since it will {hopefully} be used and loved in our living room.

Before I started sewing these blocks together, I broke down and purchased a 1/4 inch quilting foot with a guide. My machine actually came with about 10 different presser feet, but this was not one of them. I had been using my regular presser foot set to a 1/4" seam, but I noticed it was really hard to keep the seam consistent toward the end. Here's my quilty tip: If you do not have one of these, GO GET ONE.  Mine was $17.49 at Hancock Fabrics (I also checked two local quilt shops and Joann's; none of them had this foot...), but I know you can order them online for that price or less (I didn't want to wait).  I have been putting this off for the last few months, but it was so worth buying the extra foot.  My seams are so much more accurate now, and they really are consistent.  Also, when I'm piecing the smaller bits together, the foot does a much better job keeping the fabrics from bunching than my regular presser foot ever did.  Best. Purchase. Ever*.
*with many exceptions granted

I also bought some small quilting pins that I think are much better for holding all those little seams in place while sewing blocks together than the regular sized pins do. I wouldn't call these a necessity, but I do notice the difference and am glad I have them.

I'm enjoying the process of making this quilt even more than I thought I would. It definitely helps that I love each and every one of the fabrics, and Elizabeth Hartman does a great job explaining each step to help a newby quilter like myself to feel a little less like a complete amateur.  (The pattern is from The Practical Guide to Patchwork)

Do you have any essential supplies you put off for a while before buying?