The Proficient Needle

PERFECT BINDING JOIN TUTORIAL

2012-01-31T14:44:00.003-05:00

For many years, I was content to press a diagonal fold on the starting end of my binding, and tuck the other end inside when I was finishing the stitching. I saw new tools being demo'd that marked the ends to make a perfect join, then read about a method that uses NO SPECIAL TOOLS, and have been using this method ever since!

1. Prepare your binding as usual, making sure to cut the starting edge straight and square.

2. Begin stitching your binding at least 4 inches from the cut end, stitching with a 1/4 inch seam and making the corner miters as usual. Continue around the perimeter of the quilt, stopping well before you reach the beginning.

3. Stop stitching at least 5 inches before the raw unstitched end of the binding. I usually back stitch to lock the final stitches.

4. Smooth the beginning unstitched end in place, now called the left side, then measure 1/4 inch from the cut end and mark with a pin.

5. Carefully, place the right side end into place, then fold back on itself at the pin marking.

6. Measure from the fold and mark - use the width of your binding for this measurement. I make mine with 2 1/2 inch strips, so that was my measurement. If you use 2 1/4 inch strips, you would measure 2 1/4 inches from the fold. Cut the right hand binding end on this mark.

7. As you can see, the right hand end of the binding overlaps the left hand end.

8. Take the right hand end of the binding and fold up and away from the raw edge of the quilt.

9. Open the right hand binding, with the right side of the fabric showing.

10. Open the left hand binding, with the wrong side of the fabric showing.

11. Place the left end of the binding over the right end, preparing to stitch a diagonal seam. I always pin the corner first, then place the pins on the stitching line. You can mark a pencil line before pinning if you like.

12. Gently open the binding to check that everything is in the correct orientation.

13. Stitch the diagonal seam, making sure that you are stitching 12-15 stitches per inch.

14. Trim seam allowance to about 1/4 inch and finger press open.

15. Re-fold your binding and stitch in place.

16. I always measure my completed binding from the stitching to the folded edge so I know where to trim my batting and backing. I like my binding to feel "full" when I have finished stitching.

17. Since my binding measured 1 inch from stitching to folk, I use half that measurement, 1/2 inch, to trim the batting and backing before hand stitching the fold to the back of the quilt. If you like to stitch your binding on my machine, using the "stitch in the ditch" method, then I would trim the batting and backing to match the raw edge of the quilt, to allow the extra fabric to cover the stitches on the back. I prefer finishing mine by hand, and I also stitch the corner miters closed at the same time. I hope you'll give this great method a try on your next project.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2012-01-30T08:45:00.000-05:00

I finally pin-basted the batik cathedral windows project yesterday.

I began stitching the "frames" in gentle curves, using some gold metallic mylar thread from Superior Threads. Still have more to go. I've been pinning the curve so that I don't over-stretch the curve.

I hope to get the rest stitched, and then decide what to stitch in the two borders. Then I'll be able to stitch the binding while watching TV this evening.

I also finished this wall hanging top. I used the small path templates (3 1/2 inch), from Elisa's Backporch Design. There are videos on the website, showing how to stitch these curved blocks without pins. It takes some time, but works really well! I like these bright colours so much, I might use this as a table topper on my round dining table up north!

Head over to Judy's blog to see how creative everyone is this week!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2012-01-29T09:01:00.000-05:00

Fabric used this week 0 yards

Fabric used year to date 29.375 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 16.25

Net used 2012 13.125 yards

My outfit for DS2's wedding is complete except for hems, as I'm waiting to find shoes first. I did manage to work on a small wall hanging or table square, but nothing finished this week......

Check out Judy's blog to see how others managed their stash.

MY WEEK OF DRESSMAKING

2012-01-27T10:19:00.000-05:00

I'm almost finished my outfits - thank heavens. I always disliked sewing for myself - too hard to fit! The Vogue pattern was interesting to make - strange, non-logical construction, but a great finish!
My dress is finished except for the hem - it will wait until after I find shoes - always a problem. The top is completed, and the trousers will be finished this morning.
Wednesday quilting was fun. We had a smaller group than normal, as there were two other outings in competition - one a luncheon, and the other a trip to the local casino! I actually had some time to cut a few small pieces for my next project! I was becoming crabby from the lack of quilting.
We were invited out for dinner Wednesday night and had a lovely grilled salmon fillet on a bed of salad and marinated noodles, with crepes for dessert - our friend is a great cook.
Thursday DH & I went to the Disney Studios for the day. We arrived early, went on a few attractions, then headed home around 2:30. Stopped at the local guitar place on the way home so DH could pick up stands for the 2 new guitars he won on Ebay recently, as well as some extra sets of strings. Then we went to the neighbours' home to play cards. When we were heading off to bed, I realized that I hadn't sewn a stitch all day, not even some of my cross stitch project!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2012-01-23T08:54:00.000-05:00

Once again, nothing on my design wall. I cleared all my quilting up and put on my dressmaking hat. Spent all day Saturday adjusting the two patterns that I'm using to make my "Mother of the Groom" outfit. I'm not making anything fancy - I'm a more casual type person.
Here is the design for the jacket- from Vogue Patterns

I found some great coarse weave linen in a beautiful turquoise colour with gold as a secondary colour. I managed to find some fabric for the rest of the outfit in the same shade of goldy/tan with a subtle pin stripe. I'm making a dress, as well as trousers and an top in this fabric. I'm not sure what the "Mother of the Bride" is wearing, so I want to have options. The wedding will be at 11am, with a luncheon reception following. Also, considering my lifestyle, a pants outfit will get much more wear than a dress!
I hope everyone else is having fun with their quilting today. Check it out at Judy's blog!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2012-01-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

Fabric used this week 1.75 yards

Fabric used year to date 29.375 yards

Fabric added this week 2.5 yards

Fabric added year to date 16.25

Net used 2012 13.125 yards

The only item I finished this week was my Drunkard's Path Runner. I used some hand dyed fabric for the back. It is a piece I bought at Paducah back in the early 90's and this is the first time I've used any.....

I decided not to change my initial layout. I stitched curved lines in the pie-shaped areas, then stitched in the ditch. A simple finish, allowing the fabric textures and colours to do all the work!

I picked up some bright colours to work on a small wall hanging or table square. I drew a pattern with drunkard's path blocks and though I'd actually make this one!

This week, my sewing will be concentrating on my outfit for my DS2's wedding in May. Since I'll be making the wedding dress when I get home in late April, I thought I'd get my outfit taken care of now, so that I can concentrate on satin & lace closer to the wedding date! I didn't finish my batik cathedral window quilt, as my group wants to see the back before I stitch it together. I hope to have it finished by next weekend!

Now check everyone's progress this week at Judy's blog!

FUN DAY

2012-01-19T09:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I finished piecing my 3 1/2 inch drunkard's path blocks, and made a trial layout for a table runner.

Then off to my quilting group for 4 hours of instruction, chat, laughter, sewing etc. One member was working on the layout of her sampler quilt (a project from 2 years ago - no deadlines!). Two new members were having fun - one cutting out an autumn leaves table runner, and the other finding out how to reduce the bulk in the seam allowances. Others were quilting, some un-sewing, but all were having a great time.
Then last night, a friend dropped over to whisk me away to her house. Last year, she won a collection of autumn themed blocks from our guild, and had added sashing and cornerstones to the top and right side of each block. She had tried several different layouts for the top, but wanted another opinion. DH came along, and we spent an hour re-arranging blocks. Her husband took some pictures along the way, and we finally decided that we had a good one. I showed her how to stack the blocks and pin and mark the rows, so she'll know where to start sewing.... She has some health issues, and can only sew in short spurts, but plans to finish the quilt to show at our guild meeting in the spring, when we both return north for the summer!
Hope everyone has fun quilty days from time to time!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2012-01-16T10:58:00.000-05:00

This is the back of the cathedral windows project. The black fabric is the one that shows through when the edges are stitched in place on the front. The whole thing is made from 2 sizes of squares and one size of rectangles.

Here is the right side. I used leftover muslin for the "frames" (the part that gets turned and stitched down.) The squares of plaid are filling the full squares, and triangles for the edges. The triangles are stitched in when you add the border.

The top is layered to the batting and batting at this point, and then you stitch down the bias edges of the muslin. I machine stitched them down, trying to stitch a continuous line as much as possible. Then all I did to finish the little quilt was to add binding!
Shelley Swanland's book "Machine Stitched Cathedral Windows" is currently out of print, but she has some copies for sale through her website, and there are some used copies available on Amazon.

This is my test "Drunkards Path" block, stitched without pins! I plan to teach this method to my quilting group soon. Most quilters are afraid of sewing curves, but if you use the correct method, it is easy. I didn't even square up the block when I finished sewing - just a quick press!

This is my next cathedral window project. The squares are larger than the plaid wall hanging, and there will not be any small squares added on top. The pretty mottled, multi-coloured batik will show through, and so will the great batik squares on top! Even after reviewing the method by making the small wall hanging, I've had to do some un-sewing! Then next colour added will be the outside of the centre section. Then it just has two borders added before "quilting" (stitching down the edges of the frames!)

Check out what everyone is working on at Judy's blog!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2012-01-15T09:55:00.000-05:00

Fabric used this week 15.75 yards

Fabric used year to date 27.625 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 13.75 yards

Net used 2012 13.875 yards!

I'm finally in the black and intend to stay there! I managed to finish all three of my table runners, made with the Autumn Leaves pattern by Quilt in a Day.

I also pin-basted two more baby quilt panels, and used the quilting as my warm-up before quilting the runners.

I'm still trying to use up the last bits of plaid fabric, so I made a small Cathedral Window wall hanging, using the machine method in Shelley Swanland's book. I saw this being demo'd on Simply Quilts many years ago, and made a project then, but I always wanted to re-visit this interesting method. It took a while to wrap my head around the correct way to add the units, but I finally found the "rhythm", and the project was finished quite quickly.


Back after piecing

I used leftover black from my purse, leftover muslin, and squares of plaid, along with a few strips for the quilt back and binding.


squares in place, ready for quilting

The quilting is done while you are stitching down the arcs, and then there is just the binding to complete the quilt.

I plan on making a larger one in batiks that I bought on sale early in January.
Check out everyone's progress at Judy's blog.....

FINISHED AUTUMN LEAVES RUNNERS!

2012-01-13T17:10:00.000-05:00

I was asked to review a pattern from Quilt in a Day by Eleanor Burns. I chose the Autumn Leaves pattern, found here.
When following the pattern, you make four leaves, so I decided to make two runners.

I plan to donate this runner to my quilt guild for the boutique at the next show in June.

I have a small table in my southern home, so I decided to make the second runner a bit shorter.
There was less space to quilt in the centre of this runner, but it will allow 6 people to sit around my small table.

Here is a close-up of the machine quilting....

I enjoyed making the first two runners so much, I made a third one, using all four leaves and a pieced border!
Later I'll post pictures of the leaves made by my quilting group, along with their comments on the pattern. We have quilters of all skill levels in the group, and we have all enjoyed making the runner.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2012-01-08T16:57:00.030-05:00

I was recently asked to review a Quilt in a Day Pattern by Eleanor Burns. I chose one of the "signature" patterns that included a bonus ruler and extra pattern sheet. I also received the mini geese ruler set.

Years ago, I began my quilting life adventure after watching a QIAD show on my local PBS station and ordering a pattern. I found the pattern well written, with lots of pictures and diagrams, and my first project was a success. As a novice, the Quilt in a Day TV shows and patterns gave me a strong foundation in techniques and methods that I have used successfully throughout my quilting experiences.

The new pattern, Autumn Leaves, is just as well written, and it gives the quilter a choice between a wall hanging or 3 different table runners. For me, it was like visiting with an old friend. There is a short video on the pattern page, that shows all the steps to make the block design.

I took the pattern to my Wednesday quilt group, and several people are trying the pattern as well, including a couple of beginning quilters. I'll be showing pictures of their projects, along with their comments, in a later post.

Step 1 : fusing the stems to the background piece. I used a light paper-backed fusible web and will finish the edges by machine later.

Step 2 : making the bottom leaf points. Following the picture, I made sure that the angles were going in two different directions.

Step 3 : stitching the first 4 pieces together. By following the pattern, the seam allowances were facing the correct direction for easy sewing!

Step 4 : making the two toned flying geese units using Eleanor's large and smaller square method. Following the instuctions carefully, it was easy to make the perfect size geese, with two different background triangles, and trimming with the flying geese ruler.

Lining up the pieces squares...

Marking the guide line for stitching

Pressing the seams in opposite directions....

Perfect flying geese, ready to stitch into the next units!

Following the special cutting guideline, it was easy to make the top leaf point without using a template, and the included "on point ruler" made completing a perfect unit very easy.

Love the block!

Here is my first completed runner top, planned as a gift, and I have two more leaves to make a second one for me!
This pattern was so easy to follow, I'll be making a 4 leaf runner with a pieced border tomorrow!

Check out what others are working on at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY JANUARY 8

2012-01-08T09:46:00.000-05:00

Used this week 1.875 yards

Used year to date 11.875 yards

Purchased this week 0 yards

Purchased year to date 13.75 yards

Net used 2012 -1.875 yards

My sewing was hit and miss this week. Seemed to have lots of small errands to do, which all took 10 times longer than planned. DH is still struggling with his sprain - his ankle has improved, but seems to have hit a plateau - little swelling, lots of pretty colours from the bruise, but still painful. Of course he hates being tied down, so doesn't rest it enough.
This week it seemed that every project I tried to start needed one or two items to even get started. Finally I started my latest purse. The patterns is from Studio Kat Designs and is called "Baggalista". It is a smaller purse that has an adjustable strap so it can be worn "cross body" so your hands are free. It has wonderful pockets to fill with all sorts of items too. I purchased the zippers and hardware when I ordered the pattern. I found this great fabric last week, and paired it with a light gold with tiny gold sparkles and a black on black swirl design for the main part of the purse.

The front pouch is zippered and has an interior pocket as well. It is held together with magnet clasps and has another pocket underneath. The back has a large zippered pocket as well, and two small zippered pouches on each side to hold a cell phone etc. The inside also has two attached pockets on one side.
I did get some other fabric, but not for quilting. I found some great fabric to make my outfit for DS2's wedding in the spring. I picked up an interesting jacket pattern, and I had a pattern for a wardrobe - dress, slacks, top, so I bought enough fabric to make all the parts. That way if my DS2's future MIL decided to wear a pant outfit, I'll be good either way. They are having a small wedding with immediate family, so it won't be too formal.
I guess I'll have to put my quilting hat back on next week!
Check out everyone's progress at Judy's blog......

SPINNING MY WHEELS!

2012-01-04T08:49:00.000-05:00

I had great plans for yesterday, but it is COLD in sunny Florida! Since my sewing room is unheated, DH opened all the blinds to let the sun warm the room. I spent the morning making bread, doing laundry and then some needed file management.
By 1pm, the sun had warmed my room enough to work without gloves! I had planned to make some samples of projects planned for my group, but I didn't have enough fabric to begin any one of them! I have some ordered but it hasn't arrived yet, and I have some fabric that I have designated as kits for my own projects, but none to play with!!! DH didn't believe me, and spent some time looking in all my normal hiding places, but I really have no fabric for samples!
I finally decided to cut out the parts for a purse, but discovered that I need fleece and interfacing in the first two or three steps, so I couldn't work on that project either.......
I printed some tips sheets to hand out to new quilters on Wednesday at my group, then continued to do more file management. I just don't feel right without spending some time at my machine!

Today will be a better day! My group is meeting at 11, and I'll be kept busy teaching, supervising, and solving problems. DH is in charge of dinner, and maybe my fabric will arrive today!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2012-01-02T09:21:00.000-05:00

My first four finishes of the year - 4 baby quilt panels, quilted, bound and ready to pack. I had fun finding flannel backings for each in my stash, along with a coordinating print for the binding.

The Animal Ark quilt has rubber duckies and frogs on the back.

Bears and Stars is a flannel top, with yellow flannel with white sheep on the back. It always surprises me when i find a perfectly matched fabric for the binding hiding in my stash.

Bubble Bears is printed for a side-ways use. I didn't have anything to use for either binding or backing, so picked up some yellow "gingham" flannel and a soft aqua print for the binding.

Storytime Bears has bears on the back as well, and although I don't have too many light colours in my stash, I found the perfect print for the binding as well.

Now that I'm warmed up, I'll have to get to work on some other projects! I just have to decide which one......

Check out what others are working on at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2012-01-01T10:06:00.000-05:00

I broke down and ordered some batik fabrics for a couple of projects that I have planned for this winter. Then DH took me to Joann's and I found the perfect fabric for a purse that is waiting to be made - I already bought the pattern, hardware and zippers when we first arrived.

Used this week 10 yards

Used year to date 10 yards

Added this week 13.75 yards

Added year to date 13.75 yards

Net used 2012 -3.75 yards!

My 10 yards were used finishing 4 baby quilts made from printed panels. Three are cotton, and one is flannel, and they all have flannel backings and cotton bindings. I have a large supply of cute flannel that I picked up on sale over the years too. Our major hospital at home, has 2 different programs that need an unending supply of baby quilts. I pick up panels when I find them, as it is good warm-up practice for machine quilting!

Head over to Judy's blog to see how others are starting their year!

Here is the pieced back for my third plaid quilt, Smokey Mountain Stars.

MAKING BABY QUILTS

2011-12-30T19:17:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to stay close to DH, to encourage him to keep his foot elevated. His sprain is healing slowly, and his ankle is the most interesting colour combination, none of it natural!

So I could keep an eye on him yesterday, I took over the dining table, covered it with a cardboard cutting surface, and pulled out some baby quilt panels that I had brought from my stash at home. I managed to get all 4 pin-basted, with lovely flannel on the back of each. One top is also flannel. I had even brought small pieces of fabric for the binding on each. While DH was resting, I did all the straight line quilting on each, then made the binding for the first one. I sat and hand stitched the binding while watching TV with DH.

Today I managed to apply the other 3 bindings, and stitch one. The rest of my day was spent chasing DH, as his ankle was feeling a bit better, and he tends to over-do the activity too soon. I don't want him to have a relapse - he makes a less than average patient, and I run out of my patience very quickly!

ANOTHER SPRAINED ANKLE!

2011-12-29T09:25:00.000-05:00

DH did it again - sprained his ankle at the golf course yesterday. Only managed to play 9 holes before his minor accident - rode in the cart for the rest of the round, putting ice from his water bottle in his sock to help keep the swelling at bay.
He has had problems with his left ankle for many years. He tore his Achilles tendon many years ago, and it is slow to heal. Had a horrible sprain about 5 years ago - same ankle, then his Achilles has been swollen and acting up for the past 6 months. Doctor said that if he was a pro athlete, they would repair it with surgery, but for a regular person, age 63, he just has to rest and hope it will heal!
Of course, because it has caused him to limp, his hip and back hurt as well. Now we add a new sprain to the same ankle!
He has finally learned to rest his ankle, so hopefully this too will pass! He gets bored easily, and likes to keep busy, so the next week will be fun.......

QUILT PICTURES

2011-12-27T11:10:00.000-05:00

I managed to get two of the three plaid quilts photographed today before the rain started. I've added the fronts to the "Quilts 2011" page, but here are the backs.

This is the back of "Moth in the Window". I cut 10 1/2 inch squares of plaid, and some 10 1/2 x 5 inch strips to make the back.

This is the back of "Spinnin' Spools. It has a strip of 10 inch squares on each side. The centre is made of leftover strips from the "moth in the window" blocks, and pinwheels made from leftover units from the third plaid quilt, "Smokey Mountain Stars". I used John Flynn's method to make a diagonal pieced back. The instructions are part-way down the page.

Hopefully the rain will stop and I'll be able to get the last quilt photographed.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-12-26T11:16:00.001-05:00

I'm taking the day off today, after an enjoyable but busy Christmas day. I have some projects lined up, as well as preparing samples for the projects that my quilt group will be working on, but today I just plan to relax - thumb through the two quilting books that my DS1 and his wife sent, maybe read a book, eat a turkey sandwich from the leftovers, watch a movie........

DH is off helping a neighbour who had a pipe break sometime in the wee hours. Their bedroom, bathroom and hall are soaked. He helped move furniture to a dryer location, and took our shop vac and rug shampooer over to help remove the water from the carpet. Another neighbour sent over a couple of fans to help dry the house out. It doesn't help that we have 96% humidity in our part of Florida today........
I'll be back at the machine tomorrow........
Check out Judy's blog to see what everyone is working on...

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-12-25T11:02:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that this is the final stash report for this year! I've been working hard to finish the plaid quilts so I could count all the fabric. My productivity always drops in the fall as we take time to relocate to our home in the sunny south.

Fabric Used this week 37.125 yards

Fabric Used year to date 252.625 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 72.25 yards

Net Fabric Used 2011 180.375 Yards!!!!

The most frightening part of this report is that I've hardly made a dent in my stash yet! I'd like to thank Judy for hosting our weekly stash reports on her blog. Keeping track of my usage and shopping has made me more aware of my shopping habits, and has made me "shop my stash" first for each new project! I plan to keep track of my stash for many years to come!

Head over to Judy's blog to see everyone's final report for 2011.

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

2011-12-25T11:01:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful day, full of family, friends and good food. We are celebrating the day in Florida, with good friends, old and new, sharing food, laughter and companionship. Our eldest son will be spending the day with his wife, and our youngest with his fiancee and her family, sharing in their holiday traditions.

Good wishes are sent to all my quilting friends and their families,for a happy holiday season and a wonderful new year!

TIME IS FLYING!

2011-12-22T17:05:00.000-05:00

Christmas always seems so long in coming, but all of a sudden it is looming!
Tuesday morning DH & I headed to our clubhouse to use the big tables for pin basting. We had the 3 plaid quilts basted in just over an hour. Came home, and haven't a clue what I did with the rest of the day! I only know that I was busy.....
Wednesday, I headed out to my sewing room early, and managed to get all the basic, stitch-in-the-ditch quilting finished and the binding added to the first quilt. Then I was into the kitchen to prepare my dish for the quilt group's pot luck lunch. One of the group offered to host everyone, so at 11:15 we were all at Carrol's lovely, well decorated home. Of course we chatted, ate great food, drank punch, chatted. At 12:55 I announced that I was headed to the clubhouse for our regular quilting group, as some did not attend the party, and some who did were trying to get some items finished before Christmas.
I finally arrived home about 4. DH had just arrived from his golf outing, so we both had a great day. Simple dinner - I re-heated the leftover pasta dish that I had taken for the lunch, along with a small salad and a piece of homemade bread.
DH offered to clean up the kitchen, while I went back to my sewing room to trim the excess backing and batting from the quilt. I managed to stitch the binding down before heading off to bed.
I managed to get the basic quilting on plaid quilt number 2 finished, along with binding attached, so my project this evening is to hand stitch the binding so I can begin the quilting on plaid quilt number 3 tomorrow!
I'm anxious to get them finished, so that 1. I can begin something new, and 2. I can count the fabric in my last stash report of the year!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-12-19T09:56:00.000-05:00

I completed my Christmas hexagon - minus the final borders. I took a picture of it on my queen bed. I'll get the borders on after the plaid quilts are completed!

I used the John Flynn method of diagonally pieced backs for two of my plaid quilts. I pieced together all the left-over parts from the three plaid quilts, then cut them into lengths that were the same as the width of the tan muslin I was using. After stitching them together, I folded them on the diagonal, corner to corner, cut apart, then slid the pieces to the correct width measurement, pinned and stitched them together. This method works well for quilts that are up to 1 1/2 times the width of the fabric. For one of my quilts, I used a pieced strip on one side to meet the requirement, and on the other I used a pieced strip on both sides. The first time you try this method, you will be sure that it won't work, but I have used it successfully many times!

I have difficulty taking a picture of the backing, as my living room is small and I had no room to spread it out! You can see the strip of squares in the top right corner of the picture. These were added to make the pieced part fit the 1 1/2 times criteria. Now head over to Judy's blog to see what others are working on this week!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-12-18T10:23:00.001-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 2 yards

Added year to date 72.25 yards

Net used 2011 143.25 yards

I HAD to buy 2 yards of batik this week! I'm making samples for a class with my group this week, so I had to get enough background fabric for the runners I'll be making.

I just have two more seams to go, and my third quilt backing will be completed. DH & I took a couple of days off to do some Christmas baking.

I made 4 loaves of cinnamon fruit bread for yummy breakfast toast, a pan of "Hello Dollies" and one of marzipan bars, both family recipes. DH made a batch of Chocolate Mint Snappers, while I made the dough for Ribbon Cookies, refrigerator cookies to bake later. I baked another dozen mini mincemeat tarts, using more of the cream cheese pastry (still have some left for another batch later.)

This morning I'm baking Rolled Oat Shortbread. My family likes it so much, I don't make any other type!

I still have one more treat to prepare - Cocoa Krispie Roll - I found the recipe in a magazine many years ago.

I've added links to the recipes on my recipe page.....
Now head off to Judy's blog to check on everyone's stash reports!

IS THERE NO END TO PLAID?

2011-12-15T13:57:00.000-05:00

It seems like I've been sewing plaid fabric forever! For the last few days, I've been using up all the bits and pieces to make pieced backs for the 3 plaid tops that are finished.
I began by cutting 10 1/2 inch squares. Some of the fabric wasn't wide enough after washing, to get 4 across, so I ended up with some smaller pieces. I cut these into 5 inch x 10 1/2 inch strips.
I had pinwheel units made from the cut-offs of Smokey Mountain Stars blocks. I also had strip sets from Moth in the Window. I began combining strip sets, etc. to make 3 1/2 inch wide pieces.
Oh the insanity!!!!

So far I have one back totally prepared, and a strip of 10" squares to go on one edge of the second, and 2 strips of 10" squares to go on the third. Now I have to piece the remaining puzzle pieces to make up the rest of the backs.

Even though pin-basting is my least enjoyable part of quilting - this time I'm really looking forward to it!!!!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-12-12T15:31:00.000-05:00

Our company headed north this morning, and DH left for the golf course at 7:30, so I headed right to my sewing room.
I managed to get the borders sorted out and attached to plaid quilt number 3. I had to get creative, because none of my left-over yardage was long enough for the final border. The pattern for the centre was "Smokey Mountain Stars" from Quiltville.

I "double stitched" the corner squares and had lots of half-square triangle units left, so I sewed most of them into pinwheel blocks, then used some of the leftover strips from plaid quilt #2 to make them the right size to fill the gap in the final border.

Since the two borders had corner squares, I used leftover strips from plaid quilt #1 to make strippy corner squares.

Now I have to get busy and make up the backs for each of these quilts. Then I'll plan a pin-basting binge with DH - he is an awesome help! I am determined to have NO LEFTOVER PLAID to take home in the spring!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-12-11T09:54:00.000-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 70.25 yards

Net used 2011 145.25 yards

Still nothing to report. It seems that Christmas decorating and baking have sucked away most of my sewing time this week! I made cream cheese pastry for the first time yesterday, so today I plan to make some small mincemeat tarts. I remember when my Mother used to make mincemeat pie, and I wonder how we ever ate a whole slice, since the mincemeat is so rich!

Check out everyones' progress at Judy's blog.

DECORATING FOR CHRISTMAS

2011-12-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Yesterday DH and I finally tackled the decorating on the inside of our southern home. Our space is small, and most of my decorations are up north, but we still feel the holiday spirit.

First we put the Christmas quilt on our bed. This was made many years ago. I had seen a similar design in Keepsake quilting, but I just drew the design for the pillow panel onto brown paper and fused all the applique pieces.

Next I added a pieced tablecloth that I made on my serger one fall, when my sewing machine was in the shop for servicing! It is a Quilt-in-a-Day pattern called Blazing Star Tablecloth. It was simple to make following the step by step directions.

Of course, we hung the stockings, shown here.

Next I hung my newest Christmas quilt in the living room. It is from a pattern I found in Quiltmaker magazine. It has fun snowman embroidered blocks.
My other wall hanging was an experiment made from a Santa block and some Christmas 9-patch blocks I received in a swap many years ago.

We only have a small tree, but it is full of memories. Many of the ornaments are home-made, some were special gifts made by family and friends. It even has its own tree skirt. I had made a full size one for my MIL, using the Quilt-in-a-Day pattern called Diamond Log Cabin Tablecloth or Tree Skirt. Of course, I had fabric left over, so I made a mini skirt for my mini tree.

The nativity scene was set in its place of honour, shown here.

Once the table was set with its red cloth and topped with a crochet white cloth, made by my Mother, it feels like Christmas.

JUST BACK FROM MY QUILTING GROUP

2011-12-07T16:24:00.000-05:00

We had a fun afternoon - the group grows each week. A few more quilters arrived in the sunny south this week, so there was lots of meeting and greeting going on.

Just as everyone was packing up, it became dark, and suddenly we had rain blowing almost sideways! Of course, DH used the van to drive to the golf course, with 3 other avid golfers this morning, so I had taken all my stuff to the clubhouse on a borrowed golf cart. Everyone was phoning for rides home, but I didn't feel right leaving the golf cart in the parking lot, so I called home and left a message for DH to pick me up when he arrived home from golf. We have a small lending library in the clubhouse, so I spent a few minutes browsing through the books. Next thing I knew, DH was there - he came straight over to pick me up as soon as he dropped off the other golfers. The rain had almost stopped, so he drove the golf cart back to the neighbours' home, and I drove home in the van. My hero to the rescue!
I managed to get the centre of plaid quilt number 3 finished this morning, so I hope to get the borders made tomorrow. Then I'll put my Pfaff away and get out my Juki, and the quilting will begin!!!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-12-05T09:18:00.000-05:00

This is part of the fourth corner for my Christmas hexagon quilt. When it is finished, I'll still have another small side unit to make as well. Then I have to decide on the final borders. I picked up some lovely green fabric with holly leaves on our trip south, but still have to decide on the finished border widths.

My final plaid quilt is partly pieced - all the small units are made, and I spent some time yesterday, arranging the pieces on my living room carpet. The rows are pinned and ready to stitch, so I'm hoping to get some of that done today before we head out to play!

Head over to Judy's blog to see what others are working on today.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-12-04T10:04:00.000-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 70.25 yards

Net used 2011 145.25 yards

Same as last week! I only sewed for a while on Wednesday, then was off to my quilt group. Thursday I sewed, but in teaching mode for two friends who were visiting. Friday we were out all day, so no sewing, and Saturday I had to pick up some groceries, do my month end book keeping, and I only managed to sew a while on plaid quilt number 3!

I guess I'd better get into the sewing room, or my design wall will be empty tomorrow!!!!!

Check on others' progress at Judy's blog.

FUN & GAMES

2011-12-03T15:30:00.000-05:00

Friday morning, DH & I headed off to Disney World. We began around mid-morning, visiting Animal Kingdom.

We never miss the Safari Ride, and this time saw lots of animals. This hippo was sun-bathing (they are usually totally submerged!

There were many elephants, including this tiny baby, who was playing in the water, blowing bubbles....

Even a cheetah decided to pose for a picture!
Had a lovely time, ate our picnic lunch and picked up our Disney calendars (free to passholders). We headed out to the parking lot, where we discovered that our car had a flat! DH calmly took out the jack and began changing the tire. Before he was finished, 3 different security people stopped to see if we were all right, and offered to have their service vehicle stop by and change the tire for us - free! DH thanked them and said that he was doing just fine.
After putting the spare tire on (one of those tiny donut spares!), we headed over to Epcot. We strolled around the lake, listening to a couple of bands, then lined up for the Candlelight Procession. We attend every year - it really puts us in the Christmas spirit. We chatted with some nice people while waiting in line, and were not disappointed with the show - Geena Davis did the readings, and the music was amazing as usual.

The sky was an interesting colour as we walked through the park to the car. DH drove a little slower than usual on the way home, and we arrived safe and sound, just before 8p.m.
This morning he got up and took the car in to get the tire repaired or replace. A belt had broken in the tire, so he decided a replacement was in order, and bought 2 new tires for the front end of the van. The repair was taking an extra long time, and he noticed that the service tech had the car up and down on the hoist, then moved to another bay and put it on the hoist there as well.
When he returned home, he looked under the car and found some damage to the body, so he returned to show the service manager. They argued a bit, saying that it was old damage, but the tech admitted that he had a problem. We are waiting for the claim to be entered into their computer system, and then we'll see what will happen. DH plans to take the car into the dealer on Monday, to see what they say about the damage, and to get a written estimate on the repair.
More to follow.
It is 3:10 p.m. and I haven't turned on my sewing machine yet!!!!!

FRIENDS AND QUILTING

2011-12-01T15:57:00.000-05:00

A friend called the other day. She wanted to make a quilt, using a pattern I had taught when in Panama City many years ago. She couldn't find her pattern, (one of the problems with spending the winter in Florida!), and wondered if I still had a copy. Thank heavens for a computer, because I had taught the same project to the group in Florida as well. I emailed the pattern to her, but knowing that she is much happier seeing and doing, rather than reading instructions, I invited her to come for a quilting visit, along with her husband and a friend who also wants to learn.

They arrived about 10:30, and the "girls" headed right to the sewing room, while the "boys" did whatever. I had my boxes of light and dark 2 inch strips ready to go, and I showed them how to make the block, with them following along on the printed instructions. By the time we had 2 blocks completed, DH called us in for lunch. I had made 2 salads ahead of time, and DH got out the sliced meat, cheese and breads. The cheesecake brownies and 2 kinds of homemade cookies were served for dessert, and then we headed back to the sewing room.

This time, Miss B sewed, while Miss S trimmed and pressed the block parts. Half-way through they switched, and Miss S sewed, and Miss B trimmed and pressed.
They headed back home, each with a sample block, and all the pieces to use as a reminder when they begin their projects.
The block was a half log cabin, using Sharyn Craig's method.

They were both anxious to get home and wash their fabric in preparation for their quilt project. They had brought samples along, to see what I thought, and of course, I encouraged them to use lots of different fabrics, rather than just a few. The more the merrier!

Now back to my plaids!

SPINNIN' SPOOLS TOP COMPLETE

2011-11-29T13:40:00.000-05:00

I finished the top late yesterday, and made the binding this morning. DH held to top so I could take a quick picture.

This morning I mixed up the dough for a loaf of pumpernickel bread, headed out to do a bit of grocery shopping, along with some toys for the Toys for Tots annual drive. When I returned home, I made a pan of cheesecake brownies, then baked the bread - company coming on Thursday!
I'm heading out to my sewing room to cut the pieces for the remaining plaid quilt. Hopefully, this will finally use up most of the plaids. Anything remaining will decorate the quilt backs....

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-11-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

I was hoping to show the "Spinnin' Spools" top this morning, but I still have a few rows to sew and press! I also have to see which plaids will be used for the borders - determined by which pieces are large enough....
I've been working on my Christmas hexagon in the evenings, and I have the third corner section ready to attach to the centre.

I still have the final corner and a small side unit to complete.

Then the big decision is how to finish it! I had though about leaving the edge irregular, and hand stitching it to the backing, but that will leave all sorts of bias edges, and won't be too stable. I recently saw a hexagon quilt that was appliqued to straight border pieces, and I am tempted to use this finish, so the quilt will have lovely straight edges. I still have time to decide.......
Check out everyones' design wall at Judy's blog today.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-11-27T10:07:00.001-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 70.25 yards

Net used 2011 145.25 yards

Just because I reported 0 yards used, doesn't mean that I'm not quilting! I only report finished quilts, so I'd better get busy and finish the tops so I can begin the quilting!

I've been working on my "Spinnin' Spools" quilt, using another scrap block pattern from Bonnie Hunter in Quiltmaker magazine.

The first picture is the blocks pinned in sets of 4, ready for sewing.

Then they are sewn together assembly line style, first in one direction, then in the other.

After a good pressing, the blocks were arranged on the living-room carpet. DH helped me re-arrange the blocks until there were none with the same plaid spools next to one another.

These will have sashing and cornerstones added when stitching.

I picked up the blocks, stacking each row from the top to the bottom, then pinned each row of blocks together in the top right-hand corner. Row one (marking from right to left) has 1 pin, row two has 2, row three, 3. The next couple are marked in Roman numerals ( fewer pins) - four is marked IV and five is V. This way if I drop the blocks on the way to the sewing machine, or move them, I'll still know which way they go into the quilt!

Here are all the sashing strips and cornerstones, waiting for today's sewing.

Head over to Judy's blog to see everyone's stash progress.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-23T12:33:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying a great Thanksgiving this year. Since I am a Canadian, I already celebrated Thanksgiving in October, so I'm not ready for more turkey yet! Give me a month or so........

DH and I spent the day at Disney's Hollywood Studio yesterday, with all the vacationing families. We had a great time, enjoyed some wonderful shows, sat with a couple of great families from Ohio and Indiana at the Fantasmic show, then ended the night with a walk through the backlot, enjoying the Osborne Christmas Lights. It even snowed! (Disney magic).

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-11-21T10:22:00.000-05:00

I'm off and running on plaid quilt number two - another Bonnie Hunter pattern from Quiltmaker magazine. This one is called "Spinnin' Spools", and uses 2 inch strips and squares. I decided to use all the same fabric for the "light" portion of each spool. The top right hand set of 4 is a finished block, measuring 9 inches finished. I plan to put sashing between each block, as I want a bit larger quilt this time. I'm aiming at about 60x80 inches. I'll probably make all the spool units before deciding how to pair them up, so I don't get too many colour combinations the same. DH has a great eye for this, so I'll probably have the parts all over my living room carpet! I'll be making 35 blocks this time, so that means 140 spool units.

Let's see what other creative bloggers have on their design wall by visiting Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-11-20T11:04:00.000-05:00

Fabric used this week 0 yards

Fabric used year to date 215.5 yards

Fabric added this week 4.75 yards

Fabric added year to date 70.25 yards

Net used 2011 145.25

I didn't count any fabric used, even though I finished the "Moth in the Window" quilt top - I always wait to report it when the quilting and binding is complete. That way, I don't forget what parts were reported - works for me!

I went to JoAnn's yesterday - had coupons burning a hole in my pocket. I picked up the final fabric to complete a kit made from my stash - needed 2 1/2 yards, and didn't have anything that would work at home....

Then I had to buy more Christmas red fabrics - I discovered that I hadn't cut enough pieces to make the rest of the hexagons!!!! I picked up 1/4 yard cuts of nine red prints, so that added the 2 1/4 yards.

I called Mary Jo's Fabrics in Gastonia NC on Friday to order the lace for my future DIL's wedding dress. I sent samples to her, so she could choose the one she likes the best. Received an email that they still had the lace that was selected, and now I have to call on Monday to arrange payment and shipping. I managed to use a 60% coupon to pick up the lining, so now I only need the zipper , and I'll be ready to begin the dress etc., as soon as we return home in the spring.

DH was happy to see that my coupons worked, and after paying under $30 for all my purchases, I saved $49.73! Usually when I shop with a coupon, everything I'm looking for is on sale, so this was a pleasant surprise!

Now I have to dig out my serger, and serge all the edges of the fabric I've picked up since leaving home, and then I'll be able to wash everything. I need to get back on track with my hexagon project - I need hand sewing to do in the evening!

Check out all the stash reports at Judy's blog!

ONE TOP DOWN - TWO MORE TO GO

2011-11-19T09:03:00.001-05:00

Here is the completed "Moth in the Window" quilt top. I have green plaid binding prepared, and now I'm getting ready to start plaid quilt #2.

This time I'm using another of Bonnie Hunter's scrap blocks from Quiltmaker magazine.
I'll be making "Spoolin' Around", found in the July/August issue No. 140.

Once again, I drew the block in Electric Quilt, and decided to use sashing and cornerstones between the blocks this time. I'll also be using a single fabric for the "light" component in the block.

FINAL PLAID BLOCKS (for this quilt.....)

2011-11-18T14:02:00.000-05:00

I finished the final set of 6 blocks.

Then I had to lay them all out on the living-room carpet. Since 18 blocks had dark "moths" and 12 had light "moths" I laid them out in alternate rows of 6. After peering at it for quite a while, DH noticed that there were a couple blocks that had the same fabric, residing next to each other, so after a couple of changes, the block layout was decided.

FOURTH SET OF PLAID BLOCKS

2011-11-17T10:44:00.000-05:00

I'm coming down the home straight - finished the fourth set of 6 blocks. Since I am reorganizing the pairs, I decided to change the location of the lights and darks for the next two sets of blocks.

I managed to finish these before heading out to my quilt group, and even had time for a small lunch!
There was only a small group in attendance, so we all worked on some items we brought to finish, and talked about plans for projects this season. Many of the part-time and full-time residents head north for either thanksgiving or Christmas or both, so the group really swells in size when January arrives. This is the time some members like, as they get extra help with some of their quilting problems.
Now I have to add some planning for upcoming quilt group projects to my "To Do List".

THIRD SET OF BLOCKS!

2011-11-16T08:44:00.000-05:00

So far so good - I made another 6 plaid "Moth in the Window" blocks again yesterday. I'm trying to keep up the pace, but today is the first day my quilting group meets, so I might not finish all 6......

I have 18 finished blocks and only 12 more to go! I think it takes more time to choose the pairs of fabrics for each block than it does to sew them together! This was the end of my plaids, so now I have to rearrange the pairs of fabrics for the next blocks, trying not to make the same choices again.
I plan to make two more projects from my plaid fabrics, so I'll probably move on to the next project when the top is complete on this one. I've been cutting the borders first, to make sure I have enough fabric. Some of my plaids are only half yards or fat quarters. Some are yards, and just a few are larger. Don't want to run out before I get the tops made. Then I plan to use the rest for backings......

MORE PLAID!

2011-11-15T10:52:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to make 6 "moth in the window" blocks each day. My sewing room gets very hot by the afternoon hours, so I'm heading out first thing in the morning, trying to keep to my self-imposed schedule.

Here are the 2nd 6 plaid blocks....

I think I have enough fabrics left to make another 6 blocks, then I'll have to re-arrange the pairs of fabrics for the rest of them.
I managed to get the second large corner attached to my Christmas hexagon project - pictures to come soon.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-11-14T08:31:00.000-05:00

Finally, something on my tiny Florida design wall. I was inspired by Bonnie Hunter's scrap block design, "Moth in the Window", found in Quiltmaker magazine. I brought my entire stash of plaid fabrics with me, and managed to finish 6 blocks (only 24 more to go!)

I've also been stitching on my hexagon quilt. I have the second large corner almost finished, and hope to add it to the large piece tonight! It always surprises me, how long it takes to add the large corner. It may take 2 TV nights to get it added!

Check out Judy's blog, to see what is on everyone' design wall today.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-11-13T11:15:00.000-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 65.5 yards

Net used 2011 150 yards

No change from last week. The floor in my sewing room is complete, and I actually managed to sew for a while yesterday afternoon, making a test block. I'm trying to use my plaid stash, and have 3 quilts planned. Hopefully I'll make some headway soon. Still have to transfer a few items into place, then I'll be able to get some work done!

I've had a couple of members of my southern quilting group drop by to see when we begin meeting (next Wednesday). Until January, we mostly work to finish projects that are already started. In the new year, I'll have some small projects planned for the group.

Check out Judy's blog to see how much everyone's stash has grown or shrunk!

SEWING ROOM PROGRESS

2011-11-10T10:37:00.000-05:00

DH finished laying the tiles on my sewing room floor this morning. This time we used two of my large square rulers to measure the cuts - one in the room and one at the cutting table. It sure sped up the process. Now he is busy replacing one of the screens in our screened porch at the front of the house.

Tomorrow morning we'll clean the windows and sills in my sewing room, and then the furniture can be put back, and sewing things can be unpacked. Had one of my quilters drop by this morning - she knew that we were here, and wondered why I hadn't been at quilting yesterday afternoon. I have to check with the power-that-be to confirm our usage before just showing up!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-11-07T08:52:00.000-05:00

Design floor is more like it! I managed to get the first corner completed and attached to my Christmas hexagon project. It looks a little wrinkled, but that is because it was packed in a bin for the trip south. I completed the corner section just as we were arriving on Friday!

I attached the corner and started the next section over the weekend, but most of my time was spent unpacking, cleaning and shopping.

DH decided that we needed a new floor in the sunroom - my sewing area. We looked at lots of options, but decided to replace the tiles with more tiles. DH spent part of yesterday removing the old tiles from the concrete floor - not a fun job. Some never stuck, and some really don't want to come off, and he has the blisters to prove it! He's back at it for a while this morning, but then we're going out to play for the rest of the day!

Check out everyone's creativity at Judy's blog!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-11-06T08:35:00.000-05:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 10 yards

Added year to date 65.5 yards

Net used 2011 150 yards

I did some shopping on the way south, but only a little!

I had to have a yard of the lovely gradated fabric, and I plan to use the 2 yards of Christmas fabric to border my hexagon project.

I love the multi-colour jig saw print, and will use it for some of the kids quilts.

The dark green won't be used until I return north as the background for a thread painted project I've been planning.

The yellow gingham flannel will back a baby quilt, and the light blue print will make a nice binding. I brought several panels south to complete during the winter months. I get some machine quilting practice, and my guild's community quilts program gets the quilts.

Check out everyone's progress at Judy's blog.

ARRIVED SAFE AND SOUND!

2011-11-05T19:21:00.000-04:00

No long stops on our final day on the road. I did get some stitching done on my hexagon project.

We stopped to pick up a few groceries on the way through town, so we wouldn't have to go out again. Our the neighbours dropped by to welcome us home, and we did a bit of catching up, but just a bit, as the loaded van was calling to be unloaded.

We had a simple dinner, relaxed in front of the TV for a while then off to sleep in a familiar bed. Today DH cleaned leaves and Spanish moss from the garden and the railway. He also cleaned and refilled the pond, and added the pump to circulate the water. I spent the morning unpacking clothes, then unpacking all the non-sewing related items.

Headed out to JoAnns Fabrics after lunch, and looked at their bridal fabrics - a couple of potential laces. Picked up some flannel to back a baby quilt panel, along with a print for the binding. I'll have to account for them tomorrow. Then off to the vegetable stand and grocery story for a more serious shopping.

Tonight I'll be able to start adding the section I completed to my hexagon project! Then tomorrow its back to unpacking and organizing. My sewing room isn't available until DH gets the garden railway set up. This year we are planning to put some new flooring in the sun room, so that will add to the delay. I'll set up on the dining table until the outside work is done - I can't put my quilting on hold for long, but I do have some "fall cleaning" to do for the first few days.

ON THE ROAD

2011-11-03T21:40:00.000-04:00

Our first day on the road was uneventful. The skies were clear and so was the road. There were remnants of snow in Pennsylvania, but none in Virginia where we stayed on Wednesday night.
This morning we saw a fabulous sunrise over the Blue Ridge mountains!

We made a quick stop at Trinity Schoolhouse Quilt shop, then at the large fabric shop in Floyd VA, before continuing south. Made it to Mary Jo's fabrics by 3, and drooled over all the bridal fabrics. I picked 3 potential fabrics for future DIL's dress etc., took some photos to send immediately and also some samples to mail later. After all the hard work, I treated myself to a couple of pieces of fabric - one for bindings on kids' quilts and the other for a project that I've been planning for some time.
We made it to South Carolina and expect to arrive at our southern home tomorrow, unless we stop to smell the roses!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-10-30T10:09:00.000-04:00

I'm still packing, so nothing to report again this week, and I'll probably be adding some fabric next week, as we plan to stop at a few quilts shops on the way south. In my defense, I have to stop at Mary Jo's to look for bridal fabric for future DIL's dress!

Fabric used this week 0 yards

Fabric used year to date 215.5 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 55.5 yards

Net fabric used 2011 160 yards

Now that we are retired, we always try to plan our departure on garbage day! Wednesday morning we plan to be on the road south. Our house-sitter will be on duty, as well as our two next-door neighbours. We really miss having our son staying here, as it made the preparations for the trip much easier, but we are happy that he is moving on with his life.

I packed up my two sewing machines yesterday, and I'm still finding all the small items to pack into the bins. I also have to pack more fabric - trying to get that stash reduced!

Check out how others are doing stash-wise at Judy's blog.

STILL PACKING AND SORTING

2011-10-29T10:04:00.000-04:00

I hate this part of the packing - everything is in piles everywhere! I've been choosing fabric from my stash to take south - have to keep working on those numbers! I've been sorting through books, files and patterns, deciding which one's I'll need over the winter. I take some basic reference books along for my group as well.

Then there are the specialty tools - I have duplicates of basic rulers, but there are many specialty tools that come in handy, and I let the group members use some as well - saves them money when they might only need it once. Most of them buy their own if they need it more often.

I'm up to 4 cases of thread - you never know what colour/type you will need. Then there are 4 storage containers with strips - love that stash user's system!

Add to that 2 sewing machines along with basting pins, my applique kit, markers, glues and oils, etc. Thank heavens DH is understanding! I'll be starting to pack the large Rubbermaid totes today, and that will make things look more organized!

I've been asked why I don't leave more items in Florida, but there is always the chance of a hurricane, and I know that if I left fabric there, I'd need it when I returned north. Don't think that I'm the only one taking items back and forth - DH packs golf clubs, 2 guitars in cases, computer stuff, bags of books etc. Thankfully we leave clothes, so we only pack a few of those! One of these days we'll decide that moving every 6 months or so is no longer fun. Then I'll have to find room for everything at our northern home, and brave the snow and ice! For now, I'll enjoy riding my bike and swimming all winter, and DH enjoys playing golf every week!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-10-24T10:10:00.000-04:00

My design wall will be empty for the next few weeks. We are preparing to head south, so any designing I do will be making up kits from my stash for quilts I plan to stitch over the winter months.

So far the pile on the left consists of 7 baby/kid friendly panels, along with fabric for borders, backing and binding. I'll pick up batting when I arrive.
The bag on the right is fabrics selected for another quilt, along with the pattern, although I also drafted it using EQ7, as I always make a few more changes.

With my busy week, I only made a bit of progress on my hexagon project, and still have a few green patches to add to complete the main motif. Then I can start on the corner units, to make it into a more square/rectangular shape. I haven't decided whether I'll made the edge smooth and add binding, or leave its more natural shape along the edges. That will be a future decision.
Now I'm off to choose fabric for a few more patterns on my "must make soon" list. I always end up buying fabric over the winter, as my stash consists of leftover fabric from projects that are planned, along with my boxes of strips & squares, using Bonnie's stash users system. I don't save all the shapes and sizes, and I don't sort by colour, as I don't have enough space in my two tiny sewing rooms. I sort mine by "light & dark". As we all know, new designs are always calling!
Check out the progress of others' projects at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-10-23T08:42:00.000-04:00

I'm like Judy - nothing new to report!

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 55.5 yards

Net Used 2011 160 yards

My week has been taken by family visits, cooking, cleaning, wrapping Christmas presents for delivery, etc. DS2 and future DIL spent part of Saturday choosing a new quilt from my stash, some Christmas wall hangings, a tree and some ornaments and lights. I have also been asked to make a wedding dress for next May!!!!!

We headed out to the fabric store to look at patterns and fabric - the bridal selections were almost non-existant! I found an older pattern in my stash that is similar enough to the dress design that future DIL and her sister (an artist and writer) sketched. I guess I'll be looking for fabric while in the sunny south this winter....

Now off to Judy's blog to see what others are doing this week.

CHRISTMAS PAST

2011-10-21T14:58:00.000-04:00

While hunting through my closet, looking for a tree skirt for DS2, I came across a few oldies but goodies that I made as a beginning quilter.

The tree skirt was made using a Quilt in a Day pattern. The original, following the directions was too large, and became a table covering for my circular table, and this is the second one, made after downsizing the beginning diamond shape and the strips.

There were two different blocks made with the dark and light sides in different orientation.

Since my Mother-in-law passed away last summer, DS2 and future DIL are inheriting her artificial Christmas tree and the tree skirt, along with a few home made ornaments.

This is a door banner I made while I was a beginner. It was my first attempt at making mitred corners with a stripe fabric.

This was a free pattern from Connecting Threads for a card holder wall hanging.

This was an early attempt to make a quilt from a large block, inspired by a book by Mary Ellen Hopkins.

Another early Quilt in a Day pattern. I added gold bows to decorate the tree, and stitched another mitred border.

I believe that this pattern was from a Debby Mumm book.

This miniature is from a pattern from Miniature Quilts magazine. The star in the centre and the cornerstones are made of gold lame fabric, fused to interfacing. To quilt the stars, I cut them from freezer paper, ironed them onto the top and stitched around each one.

This is the Christmas wreath pattern from Quilt in a Day. This was a remake that I used as a group sample, when I was in charge of the quilting group in Panama City FL. I had made two before, one was a gift, and one decorates the front of our Florida home during the holiday season. I was inspired by the more Victorian colouring in the pointsettia print.

BUSY BUT NO QUILTING!

2011-10-20T11:58:00.000-04:00

Monday morning DH and I headed north to visit DH's sister and her husband. They retired to their "cottage" several years ago. In the afternoon, my brother and his wife, visiting from China arrived. We had a great visit, enjoying the cool weather, and a lovely fire burning in the wood stove. There was a bit of rain, but not enough to dampen our spirits, as we all got re-acquainted.

Tuesday morning we went for a walk along the lake, visited a neighbour who was having their cottage raised and a basement built underneath. Since this area is part of the Canadian Shield, there is granite a few inches under the soil, so most buildings are raised, and a walk-in basement area installed. My SIL has a new chocolate lab, and we all enjoyed the 7 month old bounding along on the walk. He hasn't grown into his long legs yet!

My brother and his wife left to make a circle tour through Bancroft, Quadville, then down Hwy 41 through Northbrook. We invited them to stay the night in Kingston, rather than make the long drive back to Hamilton. DH & I headed home, and quickly decided to make a steak and broccoli stir fry for dinner. My SIL was amazed that I was "cooking Chinese style", but seemed to enjoy the meal. We talked, laughed, and shared photos - both computers were humming, and finally headed to bed.

Wednesday morning they headed back as my brother had an appointment at noon in the Toronto area.
This morning I received an email - his son and wife had a baby girl last night! She was 7.3 pounds, and mother and baby are home again. Can't wait to see the pictures!

I wish we could visit with my brother and his wife more often, but they are planning to come back to Canada next June to attend the family reunion!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-10-17T08:07:00.000-04:00

Not much new around my sewing room. I've been too busy shopping and wrapping Christmas presents. I had planned to spend Sunday afternoon making up quilt kits from my stash to take south, but we had a power failure, probably caused by the wind storm, and since I work in the basement with one tiny window, there wasn't enough light to work there. The good news is that DH and I spent the time working on our Christmas cards. We get them prepared before we head south, then our house-sitter pops them in the mail on December first!
I did manage to get some more done on my hexagon quilt. Just have to finish the green round, then I can begin adding the corners to make it more rectangular. DH would like me to leave it as it is, but I think it will be more useful as a more regular shape.

Check out what everyone is working on at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-10-16T10:39:00.000-04:00

The only item completed this week was a microwave tortilla warmer for DS2. He saw one at a booth at the Kitchener quilt show, and thought that he would like one. He even picked out the fabric!

Used this week .5 yard

Used year to date 215.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 55.5 yards

Net used 2011 160 yards

DH and I spent the week Christmas shopping. We wrap and deliver all our gifts to family members before heading south. Shipping costs, especially across the border, have sometimes been greater than the gift being shipped, so early shopping is the name of the game. Last year, I made a wish list for our sons, and they had items shipped directly to DH if it was for me, and to me if it was for DH. Many online vendors offer deals on shipping, so it worked well for everyone.

Check on everyone's stash progress at Judy's blog.

COMMUNITY QUILTS - LIMESTONE QUILT GUILD

2011-10-12T11:04:00.003-04:00

Spent a lovely day on Tuesday at the monthly workshop for our community quilts project.
In June, the block of the month that was due in September, was an easy, scrappy block that would be donated to community quilts. Lots of members used the block to use up many of the leftover fabrics from previous projects, and almost 700 blocks were turned in.
Several quilts have already been made using the blocks, and yesterday, 2 more were designed, with border fabric chosen and cut. One went into a kit that someone will take home to finish at the next meeting, and I stitched the top for the second one.
One of the members made labels all day, and hand stitched them to the quilts that were handed in at the last meeting. 6 or 7 quilts were pin basted, ready for quilting, and they only stopped when every single pin was used, including the two new large packages that were just purchased.

We had a wonderful pot luck lunch with homemade soup, quiche, fresh veggies and rolls, and lots of muffins and cookies for dessert.

One thing that they are in need of is finished single size bed quilts. They try to send as many as possible with a group who sponsors an orphanage in Chernobyl. I think I'll go through my list to see what finished quilts are the correct size....
These three fit the size requirements, so now I just have to find and deliver them before we head south.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-10-10T10:49:00.003-04:00

My hexie Christmas project is growing in leaps and bounds. It is almost too big to lay out on my living-room carpet to photograph! I have three more diamond shapes to fill in around the edges, then I'll start to change the shape to more of a rectangle. If I don't finish it before heading south, I'll have to cut enough pieces of Christmas fabric to take with me - don't want to buy more unless it has an immediate project ready to sew.......

I also finished this Advent calendar for my future DIL this week. I had fun stitching with some rayon and mylar threads for a bit of shine.
I made her a Christmas apron, and while cleaning out the closet, found one in fall colours, as well as one I had made for my son many years ago, with his favourite "Animaniacs" cartoon characters.

Head over to Judy's blog to see what lovelies everyone is working on this week.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-10-09T10:07:00.000-04:00

Fabric used this week 2.375 yards

Fabric used year to date 215 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 55.5 yards

Net fabric used 2011 159.5 yards

I managed to finish a Christmas apron and an advent calendar for future DIL. The rest of my week was taken up with gardening, Christmas shopping and other chores.

Yesterday my washing machine decided to quit - fortunately, with the rinse water in the load, not the detergent! DH and I had to wring all the clothes out by hand, twice, and he used the shop vacuum to remove the water from the machine drum. We decided to buy a new machine, as this one is quite old, and it would cost almost as much to repair as to replace. It will head off to the metal recyclers one day next week.

Even by getting as much water as we could out of the clothes, it still took 2 full cycles to dry them in the dryer. DH suggested stringing a line outside, but there really isn't any place to do that in our tiny condo yard......

Off to get the turkey in the oven!

Check out everyones' progress at Judy's blog....

CANADIAN THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

2011-10-08T15:24:00.000-04:00


Pumpkin Pie

I'm getting ready for Thanksgiving today. My pumpkin pie was baked this morning, and the turnip (rutabaga) was cooked to make the casserole with apple that my family expects every time we cook a turkey! The recipe is on my new recipe page if you would like to try it.

Turnip Casserole ready for the oven.

Our niece and her family are in town today, as her eldest son is playing in a hockey tournament at noon. We'll be off to the rink to cheer for his team!
Then back home for a bit more prep for the dinner tomorrow.

We're having friends over, as they were not cooking their own special dinner this year - they are out of town attending a wedding, and returning on Sunday. They are hoping to do their vegetable garden clean-up on Monday, so I thought they'd enjoy a home cooked meal on their return Sunday.
The little turkey table decorations were made at my craft group when I lived in Panama City FL. Found them when we straightened up the "under the stairs" storage cupboard!

TIDY UP TIME

2011-10-07T15:27:00.001-04:00

DH volunteered to help me reorganize the large storage closet under the basement stairs. In the very back we store our Christmas stuff except for the tree which is in the garage. We haven't had a Christmas at home for over 10 years, so it was great to pull everything out and see what we have. DS2 and future DIL will be visiting soon, and I'll offer them some of my decorations as a start on their first Christmas together.

This is also where I store quilts - some in the large totes and others in bags to keep them dust free. A couple of years ago I listed all the quilts and where they were stored, but since then I've added some, given some as gifts, donated some etc., so it was time to do it over again. We measured some of the quilts that I had pictures of, but no finished size measurement, we photographed some that had missed having their picture taken, I included some seasonal ones to the pile of wall hangings, aprons, etc for DS2 & future DIL,
and I made sure there was a quilt set aside for my family reunion next June (I give one to the youngest family member in attendance).
Now I have to download the pictures to my computer, and make a new spreadsheet to list all the quilts, runners, wall hangings, etc. I was happy to have the help, but the sorting/organizing took until after 3pm!
I've often thought of selling some items, but since we split our year between two different homes in two different countries, it would be difficult to maintain, especially when the quilts are not available to pack and ship..... I'll have to give this some more thought.

KITCHENER QUILT SHOW

2011-10-04T12:34:00.000-04:00

DH and I, along with DS2 and future DIL had a lovely morning attending the quilt show. It was DIL's first, and she took her job of voting on her favourite three quilts very seriously. It also gave her a taste of what quilters are doing these days. DS2 helped to set up and photograph the last Quilts Kingston show, so he was an old hand.
DH was chief photographer, and took pictures of items that caught his eye. I also bought a photo CD, that included all the quilts.

DH & I had a long talk with the photographer, to see how they produced their CD. They did all the photography in September, giving every entrant an appointment, to hang and photograph the quilts against a black background, using a tripod and proper lighting. I'm going to suggest that to our committee, as last time we had to take the pictures while the show was being set up and the quilts hung. If you have every tried to photograph a whole quilt at a show, you'll know how difficult that can be.....

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-10-03T09:25:00.000-04:00

My Christmas hexagon top has grown two more points. Another long car trip helped to move things along well.

I also finished a baby quilt that will be going to my brother's youngest son and his wife. Their little girl is due October 20th, and so far, everything is on schedule.

I must like this pattern, as I have made three of these quilts over the years. The sheep are make of fleece, to encourage little fingers to touch and feel. The pattern is called "Flock of Dreams" and was designed by Dawn M. Koch, published in Quiltmaker magazine No. 88.
I made this one a bit more scrappy than previous projects. I find it difficult to use just 3 or 4 fabrics in a quilt!

Check out the creativity on other design walls at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-10-02T11:37:00.000-04:00

Fabric used this week 6 yards

Fabric used year to date 212.625 yards

Fabric added this week 1.625 yards

Fabric added year to date 55.5 yards

Net used 2011 157.125 yards

The drive to Kitchener was long - we had a late start due to helping a friend, and ended up in Friday night rush hour traffic in the rain through Toronto. The trip normally taking 4 hours, took 7 1/2!

The quilt show was lovely. I was expecting more quilts as their guild is twice the size of ours! I'll have to show some pictures tomorrow, as I haven't downloaded them from the camera yet.

My future DIL asked to go to Len's Mill Store after the show, as she was looking for some fabric for a hallowe'en costume. We found a cute Advent calendar panel, and some goldfish cracker shark fabric that had to come home, as she'd like to have ab advent calendar. They saw a microwave tortilla warmers at the quilt show, so DS2 chose the goldfish fabric to make one of those as well. Since they have lots of assorted household articles there, by the time we left the bill was almost $80!

Since they are just starting out, they still need a few incidental items, and DH & I love to help out.....

The visit was too short, but they are planning to come to us for a visit in a couple of weeks, so we'll see more of them then.

My brother and his wife are arriving from China next week, and we are looking forward to a visit with them as well. Our calendar always fills up this time of year, and so does the list of quilting projects that need finishing soon......

Check out Judy's blog to see how others' stash usage is faring this week.

OFF TO THE QUILT SHOW

2011-10-01T08:45:00.000-04:00

Just heading out to pick up my SDIL to be and then off to spend the morning at the Kitchener Waterloo quilt show. Reports with picture to come later......

TOO MANY CHORES, NOT ENOUGH ENERGY

2011-09-28T12:06:00.000-04:00

I've been trying to do a thorough house cleaning, vacuuming, floors, dusting, lemon oil on furniture, as well as making the garden more tidy as plants begin to prepare for winter. Of course, I have a sore throat, which I'm hoping doesn't develop into anything serious.

We're also having a house guest on Thursday night, then a trip to Kitchener on Friday and Saturday to attend the quilt show there.

I do not have time to get sick!

I did manage to get the flock of sheep machine appliqued and the blocks stitched together. (The sheep are made of fleece, for a nice soft feel for baby.) Now I just have to add borders, then I can get the quilting completed!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-09-26T10:39:00.001-04:00

I managed to get lots of stitching on my hexagon quilt this week - a car trip to Kitchener, then back to Toronto then home provided lots of stitching time!

This is the beginning of a baby quilt for my nephew and his wife - baby is due October 20th. You'll have to wait to see what the alternate blocks look like!

My tall sons were visiting over the weekend, so I took advantage of their height and took pictures of some quilts.

Pushin' Up Spring

The Orient Visits Baltimore

The Baltimore quilt was made from a pattern by Fat Cat Patterns, using one called "Baltimore Bliss" that was offered as a BOM a while ago. Pushin' Up Spring was also a BOM offered by AppleBlossom Quilts. It was made using scraps except for the background of the blocks.

Check out what everyone is working on by visiting Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-09-25T08:57:00.000-04:00

Used this week 12.125 yards

Used year to date 206.625 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 53.875 yards

Net used 2011 152.75 yards

I finished quilt number 2 for BFF's granddaughters. This one began as a Raggedy Ann panel, and a yard each of two coordinating prints that were in my stash. DH is happy to see the pile of flannel that I had purchased for kids' quilts slowly shrinking. I try to use flannel on the back for kids, as it is more cuddly. I am a fabric pre-washer, and the flannel is washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer to pre-shrink it before adding it to a project.

Now I am trying to decide whether to start a new project, or begin making my own "quilt kits" to take south. We'll be heading that way in just over a month, and with Thanksgiving, family visits, Christmas shopping etc., I know the time will fly as it always does.

I had fun quilting stars and hearts in the large dark pink border, then a large stipple in the final border. This was one of my more favourite panels - perfect for a 2 year old!
Check out everyone's progress at Judy's blog.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-09-19T09:49:00.000-04:00

This is quilt number 1 for BFF's granddaughters. Quilt number 2 is pin-basted and the quilting has begun!

Here is my progress on my hexagon quilt. I stitched while taking a break each lunch hour, as well as watching TV in the evening with DH. Once I get the final diamond shape attached, I plan to work on the rest in segments, then add them as they are completed. Less weight to carry around......

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-09-18T11:59:00.000-04:00

Used this week 20.75 yards

Used year to date 194.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 53.875 yards

Net used 2011 140.625 yards

Thanks to the commissioned place mats and napkins and then completing one of the surprise quilt for my BFF's grandaughters, I made some good strides this week!

Close-up pictures of the panel I used in the quilt.....

Check out everyone's stash progress at Judy's blog.

PLACE MATS AND NAPKINS COMPLETED

2011-09-16T11:02:00.000-04:00

I even found some silver and gold napkin rings to include in the gift package! I machine quilted the mats, using Sulky gold mylar thread on the top and a variegated cotton thread in the bobbin. I used the variegated thread exclusively on the napkin hems.

One of six completed table settings!

Now back to my regularly scheduled quilting - two single bed quilts for little girls!

A COMMISSION

2011-09-14T09:40:00.000-04:00

My BFF commissioned me to make a set of 6 placemats and napkins, to be used as a wedding gift. She spent about an hour with me on Sunday, looking at patterns, and choosing fabric. I had a partial bolt of batik that had some of the colours in the china that the happy couple had selected, and we spent some time finding two other coordinating fabrics. Of course, the pattern that she chose for the placemats had tons of half-square triangle blocks.

Monday, I spent most of the day sewing, pressing and squaring up these.....

Tuesday, I spent the morning waiting for the cable guy - the digital transition isn't going as smoothly in Canada as it did in the US! I did managed to get to my sewing room after lunch and pieced the centres of the place mats. They still have a narrow border to be added.

When we were choosing fabrics, she spotted the cream fabric - leftover from my Baltimore quilt. I only had a narrow piece, including the fold, after cutting the blocks. I measured it, and there was just enough to make the blocks for these mats.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-09-12T09:37:00.000-04:00

I've made some progress on my EPP project this week.....

The centre star is complete, and I'm starting to add the diamonds to form the next round.
My friend and I picked fabrics for her set of placemats and napkins, so I'll be busy cutting and stitching today. The surprise quilts are put away, and will have to wait until the placemats are completed, then pin basting will begin. The tops and backings are ready to go - I'll have to "fluff" the batting tonight to get the wrinkles out...
Check out what everyone else is working on at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-09-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

I finally finished my Baltimore quilt this week, so I can count the fabric!!!!

Used this week 20.25 yards

Used year to date 173.75 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 53.875 yards

Net Used 2011 119.875 yards

I have two single bed quilt tops and backings prepared, as a gift for BFF's granddaughters, but she is coming over this afternoon, so I can't work on them until tomorrow. She has also commissioned me to make 6 place mats and napkins to use as a wedding gift, so we'll be combing my stash for just the right fabric when she arrives.

I have 4 loaves of whole wheat bread heading to the oven, and with DH's help, there is a giant pot of fruit chili sauce simmering on the stovetop!

Check out everyone's progress at Judy's blog.

TWO MORE PROJECTS STARTED

2011-09-08T11:09:00.000-04:00

I spent the afternoon choosing fabrics for quilts for my BFF's two granddaughters. I began with a panel for one, and yardage for the other, then played with EQ7 to make the quilts big enough for their single beds.
The hardest part was finding pieces of fabric from my stash with enough yardage to complete the borders! Many of my pieces are a yard or less, and although I have some fabric wrapped on bolts, nothing seemed to be the right colour for these quilts! I kept hunting, making design/colour changes as I went, and managed to find enough to make the two quilt tops!
EQ makes my job easier, as I make notes of all the measurements for the borders, and cut them all before beginning the quilt. I mark the centre point of each border on each edge to help lining them up. Once the borders were cut, I placed them on a hanger in the order I'd use them. This certainly sped up the whole assembly process.

Quilt one, uses a Raggedy Ann panel that I found last fall, and then I found 2 coordinating prints at a shop in Houston, while visiting the quilt festival.

Quilt two uses a 1 1/2 yard panel of cute quilt blocks that has been waiting in my stash for the perfect requirement.

Off to the cutting table! More later.......

FINISHED MY BALTIMORE QUILT!

2011-09-07T09:48:00.000-04:00

I made the final quilting stitches yesterday morning, then spent an hour or so checking for thread ends on the back, etc. I try to be a tidy quilter, but I use my thread cutter on the Juki without thinking, and then need to hunt down the pesky thread ends!

I decided to call this one

" The Orient Visits Baltimore"

The pattern is Baltimore Bliss by Fat Cat Patterns. I took a few pictures of the quilting, but I'll have to wait until we get some help to take a picture of the whole quilt.

The feathers in the sashing was stitched with Sulky gold "sliver" thread, a flat mylar filament. It sparkles much more in person!

I used the same thread to stitch the swirl in the cornerstones.

I stitched the background pattern in the neutral areas of each block. The decorative stitching on the appliques was done before the top was assembled.

This is the best shot that I could get of the quilt top, and it doesn't show the borders at all. The colours are a bit washed out from the lighting - I'll have to figure out a better way to photograph my quilts!
If you want to see the border fabric, it is shown here.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-09-05T09:40:00.000-04:00

This week I needed some hand sewing to do in the evening, and I began a project that I swore I would never do!

English paper piecing hexagons!

I was inspired by the project that Bonnie Hunter of Quiltville, has been working on for the past few months. Her top is made from red, green and neutral scraps, but I decided to use some of the half-shelf full of Christmas prints that I have collected over the past many years.

The good and bad news is that you can cut 224 squares of fabric at two and one half inches square from a yard of fabric. I don't know how many hexies I'll make by the time I finish this project, but I'll keep track!

Check out the other creative endeavours at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-09-04T10:43:00.000-04:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used Year to Date 153.5 yards

Added this Week 1.5 yards

Added Year to Date 53.875 yards

Net Used 2011 99.625 yards

I lost a day this week due to recurring illness, but at least I know how to treat the symptoms! I'm on the final phase of quilting my big Baltimore project!

DH and I took a drive to Watertown NY - went out to lunch and did a bit of shopping (mostly for him), but I did stop at Joanns and use my coupon!

DH saw this fabric and insisted that I get some, so I brought home 1 1/2 yards!

Check out Judy's blog to see everyone's progress.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-08-29T09:50:00.000-04:00

My design wall is empty! I will not begin another project until the quilting is done on my Baltimore quilt! I didn't get much done yesterday, as our power was "out" from 2 - 6:30 pm - wind damage from the edge of Irene.

This is the quilt that was on my table, under the baked goodies - I finally took its picture! It was the first hand appliqued quilt that I ever made. I bought the pattern from a quilt shop in Orlando (now closed) that specialized in historical reproduction and wool fabric. I can't find the pattern to give credit to the designer...... I use the quilt as a table cover during the fall and winter months, removing it when using the table!

This quilt is used on my table during the spring/summer months. Again - I have no idea what pattern I used. I remember seeing the pattern in a magazine, and when I went to the fabric store, I found a great overall flowered print and a matching stripe - both required for the pattern. The background was supposed to be a stripe, but as I couldn't find one, I used a solid blue and quilted the lines with a variegated blue thread.
I'm heading off to machine quilt all day! Check out Judy's blog to see what others are working on this week!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-08-28T10:57:00.000-04:00

I managed to use a bit of fabric this week, even though most of my time was spent pin-basting and quilting!

Used this week 4 yards

Used year to date 153.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 101.13 yards

Spent yesterday catching up on laundry - last weekend, there weren't full loads of anything, so this week the laundry room was buried! I'm just washing the final load as I type.

DH was ambitious yesterday, and baked a batch of cookies - yummy! (peanut butter oatmeal)

I tried a new recipe for a tomato soup spice layer cake with cinnamon buttercream frosting. We'll be tasting that one tonight.

I also have the dough for 4 loaves of whole wheat bread on its first rise. Now that there is just 2 of us at home, it should last for a while.

I just went through my quilt photo file, and I don't have a picture of the quilt on my dining room table! I guess that has to go on the "to do" list!

Check out Judy's blog to see everyone's progress this week.

ANOTHER SMALL FINISH

2011-08-26T09:26:00.000-04:00

I completed the Autumn Runner, using the leftover half-square triangles from a previous project. I added narrow green borders, and the same leaf print that formed the back of the autumn basket quilt.

I outlined all the leaves with free motion stitching, using some gold metallic thread. The rest of the runner was stitched with invisible (monofilament) thread, stitching in the ditch. It finished 15.5 x 32 inches.

This will also be donated to my guild for the boutique at the quilt show next June.

A SMALL FINISH

2011-08-25T19:27:00.000-04:00

Since I was machine quilting today, I thought I'd take some time from my big project to complete a small item or two.

The hot pad is layered with some "Insul-bright" batting, along with a layer of cotton batting, to protect the table from heat.

With the fabric I had available, I was only able to make 3 place mats! Two will go to DS2 & future DIL, and the third will be donated to my guild's boutique at next June's quilt show.
I outlined the daisy motifs with free motion stitching.

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-08-22T09:45:00.000-04:00

I'm still pin-basting the monster quilt, but I did do a bit of sewing this week.

The piece on the left is made from the corner cut-offs from the Autumn Basket quilt. Still trying to work out borders, and I want to incorporate some of the autumn leaf print as well.
On the right is two 60 degree placemats and a hexagon piece that will be a hot pad to match. I'm sure many of you recognize this fabric. I only had a small piece in my stash, and decided that it was time to use it!
Check out everyone else's progress this week, at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-08-21T11:58:00.000-04:00

Used this week 3.75 yards

Used year to date 149.5 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 97.125 yards

I finished the autumn basket table centrepiece in time to add it to a housewarming gift for DS2 and future DIL on Saturday.

We had a lovely drive to Kitchener, and finally met future DIL's mother. We managed to chat, but mostly using her older daughter as interpreter. Her English is limited, and my Russian is non-existant! We still managed to share lots of information - we're both moms and want the best for our youngest children - what else matters!

Head over to Judy's blog to see how others' are doing this week.

PIN BASTING PLUS!

2011-08-19T09:14:00.000-04:00

I've been basting another large quilt. My table is small, so I do it in sections, with DH helping to roll it up and move - it gets quite heavy. My table is placed up against a wall - that is why I roll the already pinned parts.

Last night I baked the three layers of the carrot cake I'm making for the August birthdays. I have to make the orange cream cheese frosting to finish it off. I picked up a cake carrier and I'll use it to transport the cake, then it will be part of DS2's birthday gift - he loves to bake, and is often transporting a cake etc. to share with friends and family.
My last job is to make the pasta and chick pea salad with broccoli and tomatoes (I'll be using lots of grape tomatoes from my prolific plant!)
I was reminded to take along some of the leftover apron fabric so future DIL can add pockets. I'll add a new apron to the Christmas list - one with pockets!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-08-15T09:56:00.000-04:00

When I was helping my friend with her Christmas presents last week, I saw a pattern that someone had given her, and thought it would make a good housewarming gift for DS2 and future DIL. Unfortunately, it was a copy of a copy of a copy, so I am unable to give credit for the pattern, other than it was called "May Baskets".
I decided to make this in fall colours, so I found a beige background with gold stars, a dark brown for the baskets, a dark green for the stems & leaves and rusts and orange colours for the flowers.

I also found an awesome autumn leaf print to use as the back and binding - it has all the colours that I used in the front!

Check out Judy's blog to see what others are creating this week!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-08-14T10:33:00.000-04:00

Fabric used this week 3.375 yards

Fabric used year to date 145.75 yards

Fabric added this week 0 yards

Fabric added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 93.375 yards

A small gain this week, but at least a gain. I used some fabric lining the 2 Christmas stockings that will be donated. I also used fabric making handles and a bottom for the tote bag made from a leftover section of a quilt. My small "Posies" quilt required added borders and backing as well as binding to finish. I'm so happy to finally use the blocks that were removed from a quilt, so they can go on and live a happy life.

Check out how others' stashes have fared this week at Judy's blog.

COOKING DAY

2011-08-13T16:50:00.000-04:00

I spent the morning chopping vegetables to add to my giant batch of minestrone soup. Mine is a northern Italian recipe, with beans - some of which are blended to thicken the soup. It will make a good dinner tonight, then the rest will head to the freezer.

When DH and I went to the market yesterday, they had wonderful, fresh yellow beans. So DH cleaned and cooked the beans, and I made the sauce for the mustard bean pickles. This is a favourite of our whole family. I managed to make 6 jars, 2 for us and 2 for each of our DS's as well.

Then we proceeded to make some "blue plum" jam, sometimes called prune plums. I make my jam in the microwave, using a recipe I found in a library book many years ago. It makes small batches, each using 2 cups of fruit and 1 1/2 cups of sugar. It isn't as sweet as most jams, and we love to taste the fruit. We ended up with 5 smaller jars of jam - lots for us for a couple of years.

ONE DOWN AND ONE TO GO

2011-08-10T10:08:00.000-04:00

I finished the tote bag, made from the section removed from the quilt. I was fortunate to find some of the dark green fabric - just enough to make the handles.

I fused a double layer of "Peltex" to make a firm bottom, and covered it with a pink print. I slip-stitched the ends inside the bag. I decided that it would be too tall with all the "borders" exposed, so I decided to turn the large pink border inside, to form a facing. I machine stitched the edge, then slip-stitched it to the inside of the bag. The handles were top-stitched, with lots of reinforcing to hold them secure.
I still had 12 blocks remaining in a long strip, 2 blocks wide. I decided to take it apart to make the centre of a baby quilt.

(Sorry for the slightly blurry picture!) I covered the seam in the back with a folded strip of the fabric planned for a border, and stitched it down by hand, after inserting a small piece of batting. The batting will be held in place when I re-quilt in the ditch, as well as along some of the shapes. I had to remove some stitching so that I had access to the seam allowance to sew it together.
I found this pink and brown print in my stash, along with a green that had the right tones for the quilt. I plan to use the same green for binding. Now I have to add backing and batting the perimeter of the quilt - a little tricky, but not impossible!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-08-08T14:26:00.000-04:00

I didn't manage to get to my sewing room for the past week while I was recuperating, but I did find some leftover yarn, so I made some mitts of various sizes.
Since I wanted to get back to sewing a bit yesterday, I decided to attack some items that had been hanging around the room for a long time. Several years ago, I made a Christmas tree skirt for someone, from a pre-quilted panel. There were stockings printed in the corners, but she didn't want them. I had cut the stockings out and stitched them, and all they needed was a lining and a ribbon for hanging.

10 minutes of work and the stockings are ready to donate to my guild's boutique at the next show.

Many years ago, my SIL's friend asked me to make a quilt for her Mother. They chose the pattern and the colours, and I made a quilt to fit her double bed. Several years later, her Mother had to move into a nursing home, and wanted to take her too large quilt with her. It was returned to me, and I removed two rows of blocks the length of the quilt, and stitched it back together again.
These two rows, with border on each end, had been residing in my sewing room, taunting me to do something with them. Last night I sat and removed the stitching and cut the two ends off, and I plan to re-purpose it as a tote bag. I still have 12 blocks to play with.....
When I removed them from the quilt, they lost a bit of batting and backing, so I'll have to think of a work-around......
Check out everyone's design walls this week at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-08-07T13:03:00.000-04:00

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 142.375 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 90 yards

Still recuperating from whatever ailment hit me last week. I did spend some time in my sewing room this morning, completing some Christmas stockings that I found partially done - they'll probably be donated to my guild's boutique for the quilt show next June.

DH and I spent an hour or so in the garden right after breakfast. I usually do a bit every day, but after a week of neglect, it couldn't wait any longer. Of course it was overcast and humid to the point of almost raining. We managed to dead head all the flowers, and do some basic clean up, but the rest will have to wait for another day.

I began making a huge pot of Chicken Gumbo yesterday morning. I have to get it back on the stove, make the roux, and get it finished in time for dinner tonight.

Had fun with my friend yesterday afternoon. We managed to get two table runner tops completed, and they are just waiting to be basted. Binding was also prepared for each as well. She finished the binding on the previous runner, and we trimmed the batting and backing in preparation for the hand sewing. DH and her better half finished installing the hardwood, and we had a lovely steak dinner, with corn on the cob, mushrooms and onions, and fresh cucumber from her garden. After returning home, we managed to watch TV for about an hour, then DH and I crashed for the night.

No matter how anxious I am to get things done, I've learned to listen to my body, and when it tells me to sit down, or drink some water, I pay attention.

Check out Judy's blog to follow everyone's progress this week.

QUILTING WITHDRAWAL

2011-08-06T10:27:00.000-04:00

It has been almost a week since I set foot in my sewing room, and I'm having serious withdrawal! Still on the comeback trail from whatever nasty bug messed with my system.

I planned to sew today, as DH got the go-ahead from his doctor to resume normal activities (his vision tested 20/20 after his cataract surgery, and he can't wait to get the other eye fixed). He is off helping a friend install hardwood flooring in the master bedroom today, so I thought I'd head down and play for a while.

Then last night my best friend called, to ask if I'd like to come over this afternoon, after she is finished work, and do some more work on her Christmas presents, so of course, I said yes!
So I guess that will count as sewing, although just not mine!

DH and I took a trip to Watertown NY yesterday, did some shopping, had lunch out, etc. They have a new Joann's opened since we were through in the spring, so I thought I'd browse a bit. I found the new store bright and airy, but it seemed to be missing some of the essentials that I have come to look for at Joann's. Checked out their Christmas fabrics, but found them expensive, and they didn't seem to be as good a quality as I'm used to...... Now I can't wait until we head south for the winter, so I can do some online shopping at some of my favourites. Some sites don't ship to Canada, and I dislike dealing with the customs brokers, who add their fee to the usual customs fees and taxes. Oh well, I guess this helps to keep my stash from growing even more than it has over the past few years!

DH just applied for our medical insurance coverage for the winter months, so I guess I should begin rounding up some projects to take south - have to keep using stash whenever possible!

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-07-31T10:22:00.000-04:00

I finally managed to finish the quilting on "Pushin' Up Spring", even though I have been bothered by some kind of "bug". I've been fighting a fever and stomach issues all week, and didn't even go to my sewing room for the past two days. I'm hoping I'm on the upward swing now.

Fabric used this week 21.75 yards

Used year to date 172.375 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 90 yards

Each block has curved background stitching, but curving in various directions.

The stars, formed by the block corners received a simple curved quilting design.

The star border has a hearts and feathers design, and the rest has some SITD with monofilament thread. The large outer print border has a large stipple quilting to finish it off.

This is the overall quilt, just laid on my living room floor. I'll try to get a better picture in the next day or two.
Check out everyone' stash reports at Judy's blog.

STASH REPORT SUNDAY

2011-07-24T09:28:00.001-04:00

Another week of no apparent progress!

Used this week 0 yards

Used year to date 120.63 yards

Added this week 0 yards

Added year to date 52.375 yards

Net used 2011 68.25 yards

Check out Judy's blog to see how everyone else is progressing.

I did manage to get my "Pushin Up Spring" quilt basted, but then I decided to do the alterations on my future DIL's two formal dresses before I rearranged the sewing room. Both are black and beaded, but the one that I thought would be most difficult proved to be the easiest to take in. It had a handkerchief hem, but the original was serged with a rolled hem, so when I shortened it, I did the same.

The second dress had a beaded over-top that was stitched into the side seams in various places. Took a while to figure out how to take it in! Good thing I splurged on an Ott light with a built-in magnifier, as I needed it to carefully remove the stitching on these black dresses. I still have to hem the second dress, then I'll be on to quilting!

DH is doing fine 2 days after cataract surgery. His biggest problem now is that his glasses are impossible. He still needs them for his left eye, but can see quite well without them using his right eye. Now he has to wait 4-6 weeks before he can get replacements. He is following his instructions from the doctor, with just a couple of gentle reminders from me.

HOME ALREADY

2011-07-22T12:44:00.000-04:00

DH was home in time for lunch! We have to return this afternoon to see the doctor. This is usually done the next day, but since it is Saturday.......

WE'RE OFF

2011-07-22T08:21:00.000-04:00

We're headed to day surgery for DH's cataract operation this morning. Have to check in by 9:15, and surgery scheduled for 10:45. Usually you have to return the next day for a check, but we have to hang around so the doctor can do it later today.
I've packed some knitting and two books, along with my lunch and water bottle. Hope they have the area air conditioned, because I don't do well in the heat, and we have heat!

DESIGN WALL MONDAY

2011-07-18T10:56:00.000-04:00

My design wall is empty! I have one quilt waiting for pin-basting.....

and another his still having borders sewn onto it. Don't know where the time goes......

Just think of how many "used" yards I'll be able to add to my stash report when these two are quilted.
Check out what others are working on at Judy's blog.

We spent yesterday afternoon with our Godson's middle sister. She is attending Sea Cadet camp for 6 weeks at Royal Military College. We were able to sign her out for the afternoon, and had a wonderful visit. I also fed her well - the meals at RMC are wonderful, but they had just returned Saturday from a 5 day field exercise, eating MRE's. They are good, but lack fresh fruit and vegetables. She enjoyed picking and eating the grape tomatoes from my tiny garden, and I just happened to be baking bread, so we all had a slice warm from the oven.

Finally heard from DS2. They had a couple of slower unpacking days, but their new bookshelves from Ikea arrived on Saturday, so that meant that they were able to unpack some of the multitude of boxes full of books! They are trying to get into a routine, and are having fun blending their eating habits and schedules.

DH is scheduled for his cataract surgery on Friday, and we just had a call with the appointment this afternoon to have the eye scan that measures for the replacement lens.