Trying something new! (Ocean #1 Part 1)

I am a loyal subscriber to Quilter's Newsletter magazine.  Normally I get my new issue and flip through it while thinking, "Ooooh!" and "That's really amazing but it would take me roughly 50 years to make!"  But this month there was a little tutorial on fast piece applique to create landscapes that looked pretty interesting and like something I could actually accomplish in my life time.  I usually avoid applique like the plague, but this seems to be a way to applique without all the parts I dislike.

The tutorial gave a pattern to use, but what fun is that?  So, of course, I had to come up with my own pattern or 2 or 3.  Here is the one I decided to use for my first try.  I have dubbed it Ocean #1 on the off chance that I might make another one some day.

From the sketchbook

Then I had to enlarge it to make my actual pattern.  I decided to go 16 x 20.  The tutorial pattern was 11 x 14, so hopefully I haven't gone too overboard!

Full size pattern

Then it was on to the fun part, picking the fabric!  I couldn't decide about the teal fabric vs the dark blue.  Still thinking.

Teal (lower left)

Or dark blue?  

Next up is finalizing my fabric choice.  Then I trace my pattern onto freezer paper and get to work!