The first was my Christmas Williamsburg Runner. I've used this pattern many times, using various special focal fabrics. It is made with 1 large focal rectangle, 16 half-square triangle units and 4 squares of background fabric.
I had fun machine quilting with my new machine! I stitched diamond cross-hatching in the focal area, using metallic gold "Sliver" mylar thread - lots of glitz!
Then I stitched a pointsettia in each of the background corners using metallic red mylar thread.
Last winter, while in Florida, my quilting group members made lots of these tote bags. The pattern is "Building Block Bags" by Indygo Junction. I finally made mine, using lots of my sewing themed fabrics. It is a large tote, with an 8 1/2 inch square base, and long, over the shoulder straps. I added a stiffener in the bottom, as suggested, and the bag stands nicely on the floor or table. The bag is reversible, with more sewing themed fabrics inside.
Our two sons and one daughter-in-law are arriving tonight, and staying until Sunday!
I love when they visit. The guys put all the leaves in my table and set up board games, laughing, and teasing each other the whole time. I love having time to get to know my newest daughter-in-law!
I've been cooking and baking - cooked ribs yesterday, and they'll be reheated tomorrow. Tonight I'm making pizza - one traditional and one Alfredo with chicken, along with a salad. I also made a large snack cake, as well as stocking up on fruit - apples, oranges, grapes, bananas and blueberries. Have to have some healthy options!
I finished the 3 remaining tote bags for "Every Child Counts", and I'm making a small purse/wallet to test the pattern. Probably won't get much done once the gang arrives....I can hardly wait.
Check out other good news at Judy's blog, Patchwork Times.
I had fun machine quilting with my new machine! I stitched diamond cross-hatching in the focal area, using metallic gold "Sliver" mylar thread - lots of glitz! 
