tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73367364257967844452024-02-19T08:59:28.595-08:00The Quarter InchChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-22612932949589354312018-11-14T08:28:00.001-08:002018-11-14T08:28:02.251-08:00OverageAnyone who has sent a quilt out to be longarmed or done the quilting themselves on a longarm machine knows that four to six inches of overage in the backing fabric is a must. This allows your longarmer room to load the quilt onto the machine, gives space to clamp the sides of the quilt, and allows for some wiggle room if the quilt isn't quite square. Totally understandable! But, when you trim your quilt, that overage results in a good bit of fabric waste. And we all know quilters don't like fabric waste! Here are some ideas to use these leftover bits that most of us have sitting in our scrap bins.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TA54IjFHGlbLeh5bXVs0PRBNIksrH8gBCB3F0EwUpnlbtfOpsr92EKggy-EVU02G6Fh6Ivinr2iHESBc9qGqZJWt9leyrZi6WNHLkyQI5qNXfCu_yPXHlnQOLQaLhy3tDXzaHVqhYpNs/s1600/IMG_0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TA54IjFHGlbLeh5bXVs0PRBNIksrH8gBCB3F0EwUpnlbtfOpsr92EKggy-EVU02G6Fh6Ivinr2iHESBc9qGqZJWt9leyrZi6WNHLkyQI5qNXfCu_yPXHlnQOLQaLhy3tDXzaHVqhYpNs/s200/IMG_0037.jpg" width="200" /></a>First, quilt binding! The leftover bits cut from your quilt are long strips of fabric that are perfect for binding a future project. Cut the strips into 2 1/2" wide pieces, taking a moment to remove any seams and re-sew the pieces at a 45-degree angle, and you'll have binding strips ready for your next lap quilt or baby quilt. If you have a generous amount of backing, you might be able to get two strips of binding from each piece. You can piece strips from several projects for a fun, scrappy binding. An added bonus is that it's always great to have binding pre-made and ready to go when you finish a quilt! Trust me--you'll feel accomplished and on the ball!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Many smaller projects, such as project bags and pouches, require only small bits of fabric. Be on the lookout for patterns that utilize small widths of fabric. This <a href="https://noodle-head.com/2010/04/gathered-clutch-tutorial.html" target="_blank">gathered clutch</a> by Noodlehead is darling, and the pattern calls for pieces only 5 1/2" tall. It would be ideal for some larger backing scraps.<br />
<br />
You can also trim your backing scraps down to a uniform size of squares (say, four or five inches, depending on how much overage you have) and make a simple patchwork baby quilt with the leftover bits. The trimmings from the backing for a twin sized quilt would yield roughly 60 to 70 4" squares. This super simple baby quilt uses 61 4" squares of the focus fabric and 60 4" squares of background fabric along with a 1" border for a quick and each project using up those scraps. It finishes at 40 1/2" square. You can even strip piece the blocks to make the project even quicker!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTcQWEKDT3_tFNjND9r03j0Hu3V0Od8feqyIEZmS-Sh0owABuZXIb4YBLyoSmDTBrhEV9sOJgaoID8Yd-1zi1AB2xgo2VjlfgYr7RmiV7Olsv5P-Ms5WCATFoCIZfzpCYmuh30nkqCr3J/s1600/Baby+quilt+from+backing+scraps.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTcQWEKDT3_tFNjND9r03j0Hu3V0Od8feqyIEZmS-Sh0owABuZXIb4YBLyoSmDTBrhEV9sOJgaoID8Yd-1zi1AB2xgo2VjlfgYr7RmiV7Olsv5P-Ms5WCATFoCIZfzpCYmuh30nkqCr3J/s200/Baby+quilt+from+backing+scraps.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'll often choose quilt backs with future projects in mind. Think of how your quilt back will look as a pouch or as a binding. It's great to have a plan for those long bits of fabric rather than tossing them in the scrap bin. It's often quite a bit of beautiful fabric that deserves a second life!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-730374673759917872018-10-18T14:00:00.002-07:002018-10-18T14:00:51.018-07:00The Quarter Inch<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm often curious to hear the story behind blog and company names and thought I'd share how my blog got its name. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was naming my blog, I dismissed something with my name pretty quickly. It seemed like Christine Weld Quilts just wasn’t memorable or fun. I tend to gravitate towards more creative names rather than eponymous ones—I think, as a visual person, names with adjectives resonate with me more. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I spent a lot of time thinking about what I liked about quilting and what defined me as a quilter. As a quilter who likes many different techniques, there wasn’t one singular style that I could use as an identifier—I wasn’t Christine the Paper Piecer, for instance.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I started thinking about what unifies us as quilters, and I kept coming back to the humble quarter inch seam. It’s one of the first skills you learn as a quilter and it’s vital for precise quiltmaking. Certainly, there are times when you can abandon the quarter inch seam (improvisational quilting comes to mind), but it’s a skill that every quiltmaker needs to master and something that unifies us in our craft. The name also lends itself to a pretty obvious graphic for a logo!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtSpZugBa-bzUxcy8Ue8B0Y3p8UxlJCpiNu3vUVKWMMGPD9nvNBMxKljEH-1gJciyrF_C9uV29QudhQeY_Fle7Y3cYxWTh7L2nA7VhyphenhyphenfrCSzE8okuQhbLDBMTdrZi9GRHRjZs-MmoML4E/s1600/The+Quarter+Inch+with+border+and+line+crushed+font+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="1600" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtSpZugBa-bzUxcy8Ue8B0Y3p8UxlJCpiNu3vUVKWMMGPD9nvNBMxKljEH-1gJciyrF_C9uV29QudhQeY_Fle7Y3cYxWTh7L2nA7VhyphenhyphenfrCSzE8okuQhbLDBMTdrZi9GRHRjZs-MmoML4E/s320/The+Quarter+Inch+with+border+and+line+crushed+font+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quilting is about community for me and I like that this blog name is one that includes all quilters. There’s room for everyone around my virtual quilting frame! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-61990294442787620012018-07-16T09:14:00.000-07:002018-07-16T09:14:17.182-07:00Controlled Scrappiness Versus Hot Mess ScrappinessI've been spending long days at Camp Oda May, working on my summer quiltalong project. Join us over at the <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2018/06/oda-mays-summer-camp.html" target="_blank">Moda Bakeshop</a>! I am just thrilled with how the Color Cuts are working out in my quilts. The grays add enough contrast to the low volumes without overwhelming the softness of the lighter fabrics.<br />
<br />
I love the look of scrap quilts, but I always strive for "controlled scrappiness" and try to avoid what I call "hot mess scrappiness." Controlled scrappiness, as the term suggests, involves some planning and thought, not just reaching into the scrap bin and pulling out whatever happens to be in there. If you have a defined style, controlled scrappiness can be easy to achieve, but for those of us who work with lots of different types of fabric, some editing is required to avoid the hot mess look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01ty_qUjzrTC48nOdgnZ8tUiLn1s9G1hw1paadP-IH22K5cZ-jlVwd6-ysyGFofHIYNprqtDaMX4kIQDNMPlq1eLJaQrUJWkk4apHoxIKABPIOVZ8r64s0Ul46KEdspuzKSFoJXCq1_gk/s1600/IMG_2482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01ty_qUjzrTC48nOdgnZ8tUiLn1s9G1hw1paadP-IH22K5cZ-jlVwd6-ysyGFofHIYNprqtDaMX4kIQDNMPlq1eLJaQrUJWkk4apHoxIKABPIOVZ8r64s0Ul46KEdspuzKSFoJXCq1_gk/s320/IMG_2482.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Here are some of my tips for controlled scrappiness:<br />
<br />
Consider your color palette. You don't necessarily have to limit yourself to three or four colors, but you should decide what look you're aiming for (muted? bright? specific colors?). It's okay to have some variety within that palette--that is, every green you use should not be exactly the same shade. In fact, visual interest is increased with some variety in tone. But throwing in a random color may look jarring. If you use all pastels and then add a lime green fabric, it's going to look out of place.<br />
<br />
Think of your fabrics as families, and consider what families will work together best in the project. There is some wiggle room here, as fabric styles overlap a good bit (and good neutrals and background fabrics nearly always can work), but you probably don't want to mix Civil War prints and uber modern prints. They likely won't jive well together.<br />
<br />
Consider outliers carefully. If you use all tone on tone prints, and then throw in one multi-colored print, the viewer's eye will go right to that multi-colored print. If that's your goal, great. But, if not, reconsider that multi-colored print. Other examples of outliers would be one fabric with a gray background when the rest have cream backgrounds. You can also address outliers by adding fabrics in the same category as the outlier so that it's no longer all by its lonesome in the quilt.<br />
<br />
Definitely mix scales. You should have large, small and medium scale prints in your project. <br />
<br />
Don't get too matchy-matchy. Scrappy quilts benefit from some variation. If your prints are too similar, your project will look too sterile.<br />
<br />
More is more. When in doubt, add some fabrics. After all, the goal is scrappy!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-75462365516196076382018-07-07T13:44:00.001-07:002018-07-07T13:44:25.741-07:00Heading to CampI never had the opportunity to go to summer camp when I was young. I think it would have been a blast! This summer, I get the joy of being a camp counselor at what might be the most awesome summer camp of all time--Camp Oda May! I've been working behind the scenes with some other talented designers to plan a summer quiltalong for <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/" target="_blank">Moda's Bakeshop</a>. We had such fun planning the project and being part of such a collaborative effort was a joy.<br />
<br />
Camp has just kicked off, so there is still plenty of time to join in the fun. Start <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2018/06/oda-mays-summer-camp.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and pack your bags for Camp Oda May!<br />
<br />
My quilt is going to be done in grays and low volume fabrics, mostly from Moda's Color Cuts, a fun curated selection of fabrics from their most recent lines. I love low volumes, and I'm excited to play with such a fun mix of fabrics. I threw in some fat quarters from my stash to make the quilt extra scrappy. Happy sewing, campers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5oa6vuoCdHsfiQSj4eUs0txWSy3HHARvoiy1BinBtHFqqBahs3FR20pAUml8leUpdhErarLtri-9fu0acvUu2Xvxv-X1lmaaKlIA-zTn3nxcQLXCVyfkMCBsiUfnlSiPCc6CjFM1wQqI/s1600/IMG_0726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5oa6vuoCdHsfiQSj4eUs0txWSy3HHARvoiy1BinBtHFqqBahs3FR20pAUml8leUpdhErarLtri-9fu0acvUu2Xvxv-X1lmaaKlIA-zTn3nxcQLXCVyfkMCBsiUfnlSiPCc6CjFM1wQqI/s320/IMG_0726.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-86116030796747683432018-06-05T16:54:00.002-07:002018-06-05T16:54:42.580-07:00Podcasting!I made my podcast debut! I had the opportunity to chat with Pat Sloan on the <a href="http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/magazines-more/quilting-podcast" target="_blank">American Patchwork and Quilting podcast</a> about my work with the <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/" target="_blank">Moda Bake Shop</a> and my love of quilting. It was a blast!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuKF9PWvjWKuulPc0zjlCEhcOJ44KE2DSpIbdTWZ4Jys5HkU8B4TXnwQjoHMyB6i9kDw8DUBc54mQRb_YRnjIVlgcq9ggMs26oFfAD24UD8hXdXRT75I2nr8pSV97CwV7nJGfsadnn7s2/s1600/American+Patchwork+Quilting+Pocast+episode+380+Christine+Weld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="670" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuKF9PWvjWKuulPc0zjlCEhcOJ44KE2DSpIbdTWZ4Jys5HkU8B4TXnwQjoHMyB6i9kDw8DUBc54mQRb_YRnjIVlgcq9ggMs26oFfAD24UD8hXdXRT75I2nr8pSV97CwV7nJGfsadnn7s2/s320/American+Patchwork+Quilting+Pocast+episode+380+Christine+Weld.jpg" width="294" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the uninitiated, podcasts are basically radio shows. There is a huge variety of styles--some are serialized, with new episodes building on previous ones. Others are standalone episodes. Some are audio versions of familiar shows (the Daily Show has a truncated version in podcast form called the <a href="https://art19.com/shows/the-daily-show-with-trevor-noah" target="_blank">Ears Edition</a>). Topics are wide-ranging, and there is truly something out there for everyone, including sewists! I love listening to podcasts while I sew. It's a great way to entertain yourself while creating. I find wireless headphones are particularly handy, as there's no cord to get tangled around (or accidentally cut!). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I enjoy several quilting and sewing related podcasts. Besides American Patchwork and Quilting (long a favorite!), I like <a href="https://whileshenaps.com/category/the-podcast/episodes" target="_blank">While She Naps</a>, <a href="http://modernsewciety.com/podcast-gallery" target="_blank">Modern Sewciety</a>, and <a href="http://sitandsewradio.com/" target="_blank">Sit & Sew Radio</a>. For non-crafting podcasts, my favorites include <a href="http://freakonomics.com/archive/" target="_blank">Freakonomics</a>, <a href="https://www.npr.org/programs/ted-radio-hour" target="_blank">TED Radio Hour</a>, <a href="http://www.fromscratchradio.org/show/" target="_blank">From Scratch</a>, <a href="https://storycorps.org/podcast/" target="_blank">StoryCorps</a>, and <a href="http://www.wbur.org/endlessthread" target="_blank">Endless Thread</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I listen to podcasts on my phone through the iPhone app, but there are several other platforms to use. Most podcasts are free to enjoy and you can even subscribe and have new episodes automatically download to your device.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are some of your favorite podcasts? </div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-74435972298977739302018-05-10T17:57:00.003-07:002018-05-10T17:57:59.714-07:00Bag LadyI've been on a pouch making kit lately. Small projects are super fun to make and it's satisfying to work on a slightly different skill set. Most pouches don't use a huge amount of fabric, and I've found they can be great to use bits leftover from larger projects, especially small bits left from precuts and the large strips leftover from backing quilts.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa7VzZpLlBov8Aj8CJt3g24yTFOQse5ovfjPS46tQbHkTcswYugnJY839hZWse5w6TABYZxlhrxvwVLyXKCXOnnvW_3YsO7TNvRw1c9Ym5cGPImZ8SetBeqbbnxDWq1uNqi85-V0vqrIA/s1600/IMG_9869-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa7VzZpLlBov8Aj8CJt3g24yTFOQse5ovfjPS46tQbHkTcswYugnJY839hZWse5w6TABYZxlhrxvwVLyXKCXOnnvW_3YsO7TNvRw1c9Ym5cGPImZ8SetBeqbbnxDWq1uNqi85-V0vqrIA/s400/IMG_9869-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I usually have long, four to six-inch strips of fabric left after trimming the excess away from the quilt, and I found that these pieces are great to use for bags and pouches. I often use large scale prints on the backs of quilts, and it can be hard to find a use for little bits of large-scale prints, but they work beautifully as the lining of pouches.<br />
<br />
I recently made a couple of <a href="https://sewluxfabric.com/products/brickyard-double-zip-pouch-pattern-pdf" target="_blank">Sew Lux's Brickyard Double Zip Pouch</a>. Rather than a mini-charm pack, I used some bits leftover from a layer cake for the pieced front. And I had plenty of trimmed backing fabric to use as the lining fabric. All I needed was a coordinating solid, some interfacing and two zippers to complete the pouch!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QRxpC0cbGo_nwJfMX6KBjk7RvabcDONfzZfK2OG4m62l6HK121zhepLNQPwlVEP0QZVnOgEk0IOyg_XdTJ7Ap5773qVOxrzernLM0apyzTPLh-c1vnHRO7K_zN7KqhpOLOGkdr64-Z4P/s1600/IMG_9872-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QRxpC0cbGo_nwJfMX6KBjk7RvabcDONfzZfK2OG4m62l6HK121zhepLNQPwlVEP0QZVnOgEk0IOyg_XdTJ7Ap5773qVOxrzernLM0apyzTPLh-c1vnHRO7K_zN7KqhpOLOGkdr64-Z4P/s400/IMG_9872-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The pattern was a delight to use. Clear directions with clean illustrations enhanced the creative design of the pouch. I will certainly be making more of these pouches and will likely be buying more pouch patterns from <a href="https://sewluxfabric.com/" target="_blank">Sew Lux Fabric</a> in the future!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRm5XbmrPHWVpWhizq0-iKm1kdVeHcEhIYwLatHcTtMOdtTiUWkbUxsp0JG5vnJu8n4i_sX7il9jOk2LfbCNW-LMiQBdvkQVFBTPk-fhHsJwOwL7RzE2dEk8exg2J0YJvrzOhhpIn6uTC/s1600/IMG_9876-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRm5XbmrPHWVpWhizq0-iKm1kdVeHcEhIYwLatHcTtMOdtTiUWkbUxsp0JG5vnJu8n4i_sX7il9jOk2LfbCNW-LMiQBdvkQVFBTPk-fhHsJwOwL7RzE2dEk8exg2J0YJvrzOhhpIn6uTC/s400/IMG_9876-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>Please note: I purchased the pattern from Sew Lux for my personal use. No consideration was given and these opinions are my own.</i><br />
<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-12882290566172942822018-04-25T14:23:00.002-07:002018-04-25T14:23:56.786-07:00On My WayI'm off to a weekend quilt getaway shortly and thought I'd share my packing list. Did I miss anything? Hope you enjoy your quilting-related travel as much as I do!<br />
<br />
<b>Sewing</b><br />
Sewing machine<br />
Quarter inch foot<br />
Walking foot<br />
Free motion foot<br />
Any specialty feet required<br />
Bobbins<br />
Thread (including different colors for different projects)<br />
Sewing machine needles<br />
Foot pedal<br />
Power cord<br />
Extension cord<br />
Extension table for machine<br />
Lint brush<br />
Sewing machine oil<br />
<br />
<b>Cutting</b><br />
Scissors<br />
Thread snips<br />
Rotary cutter<br />
Extra blades for rotary cutter<br />
Self healing mat<br />
Quilting rulers<br />
Seam ripper<br />
<br />
<b>Pressing</b><br />
Iron<br />
Portable iron mat<br />
Seam roller<br />
Spray starch<br />
<br />
<b>Pinning</b><br />
Pins<br />
Needles<br />
<br />
<b>Marking</b><br />
Disappearing ink fabric pen<br />
Mechanical pencil<br />
Pen<br />
Notebook<br />
<br />
<b>Miscellaneous</b><br />
Patterns<br />
Portable light<br />
Sweater<br />
Ziploc bags<br />
Water bottle<br />
Snacks<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-70526564316381873122017-12-11T13:39:00.002-08:002017-12-11T13:39:58.833-08:00Gift Ideas for Quilters: 2017 EditionWith two weeks to go before Christmas, you might be wondering what to get the quilter in your life. Here are some ideas, either taken directly from my own list or based on products I've used and loved this year. Please note, I was not sent any of these products for free, these are simply my opinions!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been a subscriber to the <a href="https://sweetwater.cratejoy.com/subscribe/670970119_tagged-personal-label-club?gift=False" target="_blank">Tagged label club</a> from Sweetwater for several months. Each month I receive a beautiful, personalized label (sometimes two!), ready to be affixed to a quilt or other project. I keep meaning to make a zipper bag with one! These labels make a great gift because they are both practical (who doesn’t need a bit of a push labeling their quilts?) and this is a subscription-based product that won’t break the bank that the giver will enjoy for months to come.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love enamel pins in general, and I especially love <a href="http://whileshenaps.com/shop/sewist-enamel-pin" target="_blank">this little pin</a> and the story behind the word “sewist.” I’m a lover of words, and I feel having the perfect word to use is important. “Sewist” combines the words “sewer” and “artist” and has the advantage of not being misread as the other type of sewer (you know, the type underground that smells rather unpleasant). The pin is available is aqua and pink.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFjpjODr7R-HbS5-zWmMrGcXOdf20vPxmZ_8G_zywTMIKaZ0-2qEqPdLRlO7IvdFUbwbZ8D-SgmKWYptrcHuDVzykTfW2PuWQOG7qA6OWFT7WRfMh4p01BzwTs-Tm14cX0GdBn8CoUTTj/s1600/1111.00572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="450" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFjpjODr7R-HbS5-zWmMrGcXOdf20vPxmZ_8G_zywTMIKaZ0-2qEqPdLRlO7IvdFUbwbZ8D-SgmKWYptrcHuDVzykTfW2PuWQOG7qA6OWFT7WRfMh4p01BzwTs-Tm14cX0GdBn8CoUTTj/s200/1111.00572.jpg" width="200" /></a>Another great stocking stuffer is one of <a href="https://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/matchbox-quilts-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Moda’s Matchbox quilts</a>. These small kits include nearly everything to make a six-inch quilt. You can get one or a few of these darling little projects. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For a more functional gift, a seam roller is a practical gift that surprisingly is not in every quilter's toolbox. I like being able to press seams quickly, especially when paper piecing. I use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hyde-30160-Oval-Hardwood-Roller/dp/B001NOCJJM/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">this curved, wooden one</a> made for pressing wallpaper seams (a flat roller can leave lines on the fabric). It is sturdy and works wonderfully. Clover also has a smaller, ergonomic version called the Roll & Press that is readily available in quilting stores. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my favorite gifts last year was a box of Aurifil thread that my husband surprised me with. It's like candy for quilters! I'm still working my way through the box nearly a year later (those spools are large). You can't go wrong with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Aurifil-Thread-BASICS-COLLECTION-Lipinski/dp/B0054LDMFK/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1513025540&sr=8-9&keywords=aurifil" target="_blank">a box of neutrals</a>, or, for something more cheerful and bright, pick up one of their many boxes curated by various fabric designers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzbZHVWPfEPU9_qjtkVK6QNN9utyXbraJFhIRe7wTjIvxzCTFxF249Fpe5rnPyoXNWVITJLxHUSgaI1cAFNlWqHTbWoDZcYr9abkv_lrKrjKYQ7yOPB_0c3dw0ooTfVKLsl7eM0P7_-K7/s1600/EQ8-box.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="478" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzbZHVWPfEPU9_qjtkVK6QNN9utyXbraJFhIRe7wTjIvxzCTFxF249Fpe5rnPyoXNWVITJLxHUSgaI1cAFNlWqHTbWoDZcYr9abkv_lrKrjKYQ7yOPB_0c3dw0ooTfVKLsl7eM0P7_-K7/s200/EQ8-box.png" width="143" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, the big gift on my list this year is <a href="http://electricquilt.com/online-shop/electric-quilt-8/" target="_blank">Electric Quilt 8</a>. I'm a big fan of Electric Quilt, but have been chugging along with Electric Quilt 5 all these years. I think I'm due for an upgrade! The new version looks chock full of great new features and I'm excited to check it out if I find it under the tree this year!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and find lots of quilting goodies under the tree!</div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-87712368947627142482017-10-23T07:27:00.002-07:002017-10-23T07:27:49.574-07:00DIY Washi TapeI make a lot of quilts using precuts and often have a lovely pile of coordinating scraps leftover at the end. I generally toss them in a baggie together and now have a pretty substantial collection of scraps from various projects.<br />
<br />
Over the coming months, in an effort to make use of some of these scraps, I'm going to work on smaller projects that can showcase these pretty little bits that I don't want to just toss. It's going to be Scraptastic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM2_24jumq_tqGNI6Qs6oabEXyWFGqDIyLY7prw2RV5rhKCT99x4N5b5V-MAP28X2i_j5LxI8KhMfU-3L9C29luIF4t5mgIQko1KkjSbvlkhXrrM6k6Q0pUlVNesSdQ2r5J7DrhTu03d_/s1600/Scraptastic+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM2_24jumq_tqGNI6Qs6oabEXyWFGqDIyLY7prw2RV5rhKCT99x4N5b5V-MAP28X2i_j5LxI8KhMfU-3L9C29luIF4t5mgIQko1KkjSbvlkhXrrM6k6Q0pUlVNesSdQ2r5J7DrhTu03d_/s320/Scraptastic+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
First up: DIY washi tape. I hesitate to even call this a tutorial since there's not much to it. But for the smallest leftover bits in your stash, consider making some homemade washi tape. The uses for washi tape are endless<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">—</span>you can brighten up mail, use it in craft projects, or dress up items around your house, like boxes, picture frames, or clothespins.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaocFd8N1aqipzenpNvWmn45oWUK3W8FecD3E9iQU4qCFLn9sD-ae-Y5lT6exO1TlT-GgSk3dLPm_kc5uu5Ww5l8vKYLuYefRgGUOUInHC66Xjuu6mGjXx9c9azz0P1_XlVdBVgddsri_P/s1600/IMG_9351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1000" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaocFd8N1aqipzenpNvWmn45oWUK3W8FecD3E9iQU4qCFLn9sD-ae-Y5lT6exO1TlT-GgSk3dLPm_kc5uu5Ww5l8vKYLuYefRgGUOUInHC66Xjuu6mGjXx9c9azz0P1_XlVdBVgddsri_P/s320/IMG_9351.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Simply attached doubled sided fabric tape (I used Dritz Res-Q-Tape) to scraps of fabric and trim. You can cut the ends straight, or trim them at an angle for a bit more flair.<br />
<br />
I keep an extra rotary cutter with an older blade reserved for cutting paper. I used it for this project since the backing material on the tape might dull my other blade. Be particularly careful when trimming as the backing material was pretty slippery.<br />
<br />
Since washi tape can be skinny (mine was 3/4"), this is a particularly good use of those really small scraps that would otherwise go in the trash bin.<br />
<br />
I put my washi tape right to work dressing up some mail!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7qfdNn0HMoBKl5pRM7iHoV2czjOS7wp-bOzKCkua8DfSiQGSUXepBCVE9baoInvBnPnveAFgayg4X4TizsuVfwDx3pkBChlIR2drL-13ryBRIodZe49L3DXBvJ1cC6q0X490hPG6EHyH/s1600/letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7qfdNn0HMoBKl5pRM7iHoV2czjOS7wp-bOzKCkua8DfSiQGSUXepBCVE9baoInvBnPnveAFgayg4X4TizsuVfwDx3pkBChlIR2drL-13ryBRIodZe49L3DXBvJ1cC6q0X490hPG6EHyH/s320/letter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-48351266009965832242017-09-23T15:13:00.000-07:002017-09-23T15:13:49.327-07:00Quilting with a Ruler FootI've been having so much fun checking out the entries for the <a href="http://www.amyscreativeside.com/2017/09/18/bloggers-quilt-festival-fall-2017-edition" target="_blank">Blogger's Quilt Festival</a>, I can't resist adding another one! I love making all kinds of quilts, but baby quilts are my favorite to create and gift. They are the perfect size to make (big enough to be a satisfying project, yet small enough that they actually get finished!) and it is just plain fun to make something for a new little person.<br />
<br />
This one is on its way to the new little girl of a wonderful friend from college. It's constructed entirely from half square triangles (I have a bit of a thing for HSTs...) in a herringbone pattern and made in Gooseberry fabric by Vanessa Goertzen of <a href="http://lellaboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lella Boutique</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eLynTmzNF-13W8Y2Il1xonqWIZzFmWq6jgRpqt7Ij7rZX81Is4YewOB-0I_x5cdhyphenhyphenNnZ9TXZE0H-1ov730HOT2Q1JLl2PmKCr0gCkOFY1EFL6GWdtGYZcvreYbh5oy0MWgsibktALAEe/s1600/IMG_9356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eLynTmzNF-13W8Y2Il1xonqWIZzFmWq6jgRpqt7Ij7rZX81Is4YewOB-0I_x5cdhyphenhyphenNnZ9TXZE0H-1ov730HOT2Q1JLl2PmKCr0gCkOFY1EFL6GWdtGYZcvreYbh5oy0MWgsibktALAEe/s320/IMG_9356.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This is the first time I quilted a quilt using my ruler foot. There is a learning curve on this technique, to be sure. I'm still learning to love it, but I think we'll be friends with time. I like the design possibilities that it opens up, as I am not one of those people who can free motion beautiful designs. For this design, I used the large curve on Piece 'N Quilt's <a href="http://www.piecenquilt.com/shop/Machine-Quilting-Notions/Machine-Quilting-Rulers/p/4N1-Machine-Quilting-Ruler-x24162746.htm" target="_blank">4-N-1 Machine Quilting Ruler</a>. I'm still trying out different rulers and seeing what I like best, but I certainly like the flexibility of this one!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGoUHjWwX8SujA-iYBUGTiLcOamEp-0QAINeOR5bk9d4A0J2Vk8Qp37X4comFJUk6Bf-sCfUV-_2bNpmzuBbI__YZBPLFJbW4AS5sg5gxQehckxSMutN2TNkbgRWmMLQ18-Q0fmjL_KEN/s1600/IMG_9358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGoUHjWwX8SujA-iYBUGTiLcOamEp-0QAINeOR5bk9d4A0J2Vk8Qp37X4comFJUk6Bf-sCfUV-_2bNpmzuBbI__YZBPLFJbW4AS5sg5gxQehckxSMutN2TNkbgRWmMLQ18-Q0fmjL_KEN/s320/IMG_9358.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Some tips for ruler work:<br />
<br />
Practice! Spend some time playing around with samples and getting a feel for the technique.<br />
<br />
Though it never seems to make a difference for me with free motion quilting, dropping the feed dogs on my machine helped a lot with ruler work.<br />
<br />
I needed to put more pressure on the ruler than I initially thought. Simply resting one hand on the ruler resulted in a lot of slippage. Really get a good grip on that ruler!<br />
<br />
Happy sewing, everyone!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-28579337362894671432017-09-20T11:36:00.000-07:002017-09-20T11:36:02.170-07:00Improv Quilting and the Blogger's Quilt FestivalI recently took a class in improv quilting and, boy, did it get the creative juices flowing! I loved the thrill of trying something new, I loved the freedom the technique allowed, and I loved creating something with such modern flair. I lucked out in that I had an excellent teacher, the talented <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marymenzerdesigns/" target="_blank">Mary Menzer</a>, who has created some amazing modern quilts using this technique. She patiently shared her knowledge with the class and helped us to create our own improv pieces.<br />
<br />
I was quite pleased with my class sample and quickly began another wall hanging. I stepped away from my usual palette of blues and greens and used bright warm tones for my second improv piece. I call this one Sherbert. It's a small wall hanging, measuring at 15" by 14 1/2". I used mostly Kona solids, along with a couple low volume prints and one linen-like solid. It's quilted using matchstick quilting in a variegated Aurifil thread.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhkOPUTAUagV8emgnC8vNg_3D6DsRUDEiJ8pGq2BELGUcDTOZtXwN_AXYEmAq8smQvrCm5GhMFPcAIPffiuWNbZ5pUmfsNngAEaS4jHzoADDEBrpAeu7B01bwZbOYXn4LlvafHFmc5rqE/s1600/IMG_9352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhkOPUTAUagV8emgnC8vNg_3D6DsRUDEiJ8pGq2BELGUcDTOZtXwN_AXYEmAq8smQvrCm5GhMFPcAIPffiuWNbZ5pUmfsNngAEaS4jHzoADDEBrpAeu7B01bwZbOYXn4LlvafHFmc5rqE/s320/IMG_9352.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBtJtwFMho9j4UbkwYSfJ_PIcPzXouJgOOwPQ3zbTeX9top0x_GzU2QajXjab4PAA8-UAjit-WPOa7AWu63Oo5nGdFokODxnDbktB6QyEbfkdVDTUEixiMga4vPZfedXbrVwSGtgG7sZq/s1600/IMG_9354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBtJtwFMho9j4UbkwYSfJ_PIcPzXouJgOOwPQ3zbTeX9top0x_GzU2QajXjab4PAA8-UAjit-WPOa7AWu63Oo5nGdFokODxnDbktB6QyEbfkdVDTUEixiMga4vPZfedXbrVwSGtgG7sZq/s320/IMG_9354.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The <a href="http://www.amyscreativeside.com/2017/09/18/bloggers-quilt-festival-fall-2017-edition/" target="_blank">Blogger's Quilt Festival</a>, hosted by Amy Gibson of <a href="http://www.amyscreativeside.com/" target="_blank">Amy's Creative Side</a>, was the perfect opportunity to share this little project. Amy does so much to make the online quilting community the dynamic group that it is, and the Blogger's Quilt Festival is just one part of that. Enjoy all the amazing eye candy shared in the festival by clicking through the links. Thank you to Amy for all your work organizing this event and to the sponsors who make it extra fun!</div>
<br />
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-9601639931581085312017-08-16T19:49:00.000-07:002017-08-17T05:31:36.655-07:00Apples to Oranges<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguo1goeKFwK9J4O9tsfXrXyY2rrn25s9FPY_E0F9FEPc56tEUYprmQR7_bDZr0VTRv1o4o62qopSREiQmSKuwhLfFt5PdLhuuZc9NDXqrP6NRqnPLfSTgUt0E3dlmiYDf9iFmBaPkf6F18/s1600/IMG_0899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguo1goeKFwK9J4O9tsfXrXyY2rrn25s9FPY_E0F9FEPc56tEUYprmQR7_bDZr0VTRv1o4o62qopSREiQmSKuwhLfFt5PdLhuuZc9NDXqrP6NRqnPLfSTgUt0E3dlmiYDf9iFmBaPkf6F18/s200/IMG_0899.jpg" width="200" /></a>Who doesn't love finding a good use for scraps? My latest project on the <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/" target="_blank">Moda Bake Shop</a> is an apple core quilt using The Good Life, Bonnie and Camille yummy new fabric line. It was a fun project, but one that resulted in some decidedly non-rectangular scraps.<br />
<br />
I quickly realized these scraps left over from the fabric between each apple core shape would be perfect for orange peels, one of my favorite quilt blocks to make. I wrote up a mini quilt pattern that uses these yummy scraps, called <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/quilting/patterns/freshly-peeled/505555" target="_blank">Freshly Peeled</a>. It's a fun, quick little project that can be made using scraps or any small bits of fabric you have in your stash. If you haven't tried machine applique, this project would be a great introduction to the technique!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZAN5m63gYrhV9gE4gmHITrGeO3HhlSRZxYt9B0Gg4qx55mQKX8DSv14J-LhWSsZMZDvDlWhk1il3FAeHNhyphenhyphen59XLWAj-kTv-Di9QFBGMezEbofM5kSSGetbJvdo4NiNcYzV248QROqPb0/s1600/IMG_1574-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZAN5m63gYrhV9gE4gmHITrGeO3HhlSRZxYt9B0Gg4qx55mQKX8DSv14J-LhWSsZMZDvDlWhk1il3FAeHNhyphenhyphen59XLWAj-kTv-Di9QFBGMezEbofM5kSSGetbJvdo4NiNcYzV248QROqPb0/s200/IMG_1574-3.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a>You can download both the apple core pattern and the mini quilt pattern for free! Check out the <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2017/08/apple-of-my-eye-quilt.html">Moda Bake Shop</a> for the apple core quilt and <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/quilting/patterns/freshly-peeled/505555"><span id="goog_521653862"></span>Craftsy</a> for the mini orange peel pattern.<br />
<br />
Just because it makes me happy to share pretty things, I'm giving away this sweet little mini quilt. To enter, share some thoughts on mini quilts in the comments. Have you made one? Do you enjoy creating smaller projects? I'll pick a winner on the 7th of September.<br />
<br />
Happy sewing, everyone!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="71713c354" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/71713c354/" id="rcwidget_twcr1w2a" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-78859235974946691262017-08-08T10:28:00.000-07:002017-08-08T10:28:22.623-07:00Solid LoveI love working with solids. The range of colors available is awe-inspiring. It's almost unreal how many variations of a single color we have to choose from.<br />
<br />
Both Moda and Kaufman have sample cards available with the full line of solids available. Kaufman even has a panel of fabric available! While one of these would be awesome, I prefer to put those funds towards other fabric purchases and came up with a quick and easy DIY swatch system.<br />
<br />
Each time I use a solid, I staple a swatch to an index card and file it in a coupon holder. Nothing fancy, but it allows me to easily match up colors, see the different shades I've used in the past, and make choices for future quilts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindK7DNRPu-uDMMYNZZu7lPiaGhac7Dxl57cCZUXTU05JMLbx7uFd-nIya3qRFPIPXoqcDY_xqvvkKtDaJGF8hFgFdWT7sr9Q8682NcOdiPmKqG86JinRPP6XAFYt1R8N8iePyJ8hPmBdp/s1600/IMG_9919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindK7DNRPu-uDMMYNZZu7lPiaGhac7Dxl57cCZUXTU05JMLbx7uFd-nIya3qRFPIPXoqcDY_xqvvkKtDaJGF8hFgFdWT7sr9Q8682NcOdiPmKqG86JinRPP6XAFYt1R8N8iePyJ8hPmBdp/s320/IMG_9919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizftYAeNuShI8TAKuIL378fcVB-OuX8nTtY95Nvs2fmAJkJX8AnRqYDt2-Ank-KHnEcQMw_xxyoBJGpOjntpNgAV5uOaP5PZfLLJJBRa42TLJ45psskueFU9VsiNPZwqtNdKnJHzcG8zSi/s1600/IMG_9922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizftYAeNuShI8TAKuIL378fcVB-OuX8nTtY95Nvs2fmAJkJX8AnRqYDt2-Ank-KHnEcQMw_xxyoBJGpOjntpNgAV5uOaP5PZfLLJJBRa42TLJ45psskueFU9VsiNPZwqtNdKnJHzcG8zSi/s320/IMG_9922.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-75018983071686044172017-07-08T10:57:00.001-07:002017-07-08T10:59:30.533-07:00Hashtag Awesome!<br />
This might be the summer of Instagram for me. I've had an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christine.weld/" target="_blank">Instagram account</a> for a few years, but didn't do much with it for a long time. I friended a few folks, looked at some nice pictures, and that was pretty much it. This year, however, I discovered the vibrant quilting community that exists on the social media site, and it is now a much bigger part of my social media life.<br />
<br />
My big turning point was participating in <a href="http://www.amyscreativeside.com/" target="_blank">Amy Ellis</a>'s Instagram Quiltfest (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/igquiltfest/" target="_blank">#IGquiltfest</a>) earlier this year. The daily prompts were so much fun and encouraged me to post more and seek out other quilters. From there, I quickly found a plethora of quilt-alongs, fabric swaps, mini-quilt exchanges, and contests.<br />
<br />
It wasn't long before I was deep in the world of swapping. There are ample opportunities to swap both fabric (charm squares are a popular size) and finished items, such as mini quilts. I just received three fun packages this week (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/happymail/" target="_blank">#happymail</a>, in Instagram parlance), each a different type of swap.<br />
<br />
The first was text print charm squares (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/textycharmswap/" target="_blank">#textycharmswap</a>), in which I sent a set number of identical charm squares of a given text print and received the same number back of different text prints<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%;">—</span>so much fun! The variety was amazing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fH8B42IhZP5qJLc0W3znrgIzLMk9krdcjpbY1_Q4nVUB7oVyyDCyxo21zvlrfSkRlHlWdCrBu8SMcqEyAhMNmvUPR8vx-1W2fR9WVykFy-eB2HpeQwDe_RF0vZ44EeXG67uzMdjRQEpT/s1600/IMG_0864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1000" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fH8B42IhZP5qJLc0W3znrgIzLMk9krdcjpbY1_Q4nVUB7oVyyDCyxo21zvlrfSkRlHlWdCrBu8SMcqEyAhMNmvUPR8vx-1W2fR9WVykFy-eB2HpeQwDe_RF0vZ44EeXG67uzMdjRQEpT/s320/IMG_0864.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-Z2oAvc-K81QFKhJfKdhYC3SKmDJu_wIt-HaywF0FBZBHeXqvoY4zZIboKef2bQV4JC3Z_t2Nfm6DJpkE2HaLWx9FYaBeVytgPvSWIQN5lOnIQQAbmFOxEQKbGWbpOr1FYoNmmITqhhh/s1600/IMG_0866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-Z2oAvc-K81QFKhJfKdhYC3SKmDJu_wIt-HaywF0FBZBHeXqvoY4zZIboKef2bQV4JC3Z_t2Nfm6DJpkE2HaLWx9FYaBeVytgPvSWIQN5lOnIQQAbmFOxEQKbGWbpOr1FYoNmmITqhhh/s200/IMG_0866.jpg" width="160" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWtD7dCrrIlXoQjuSUrWmbUvvEGlGgu8V75LX8g8gpjIYEaE9102DeNl1Wv68owsru1ucYqmc4b3s3TczOK1AT981PfmpGcmI1HHA79XiZRcVk_bngVPZviLWF6RQaVSeZepnpEfpvcdw/s1600/IMG_0860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWtD7dCrrIlXoQjuSUrWmbUvvEGlGgu8V75LX8g8gpjIYEaE9102DeNl1Wv68owsru1ucYqmc4b3s3TczOK1AT981PfmpGcmI1HHA79XiZRcVk_bngVPZviLWF6RQaVSeZepnpEfpvcdw/s200/IMG_0860.jpg" title="" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">One of my blocks for the Sweetwater Swap</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love the fun fabric the ladies of <a href="https://www.thesweetwaterco.com/" target="_blank">Sweetwater</a> design and was excited to participate in a Sweetwater block swap (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/swjulystarswap/" target="_blank">#swjulystarswap</a>). For this one, each participant made blocks following the same pattern and using only Sweetwater fabric. We sent the blocks to our generous and patient hostess and received back different blocks. I loved seeing fabric from older, out of print lines I hadn't seen in person. I made a few different blocks, and made an extra of each style for myself, so I now have enough blocks for a pretty sweet quilt! Not only is it fun to work on my own project, but I love seeing the other quilts from the swap come together. There were so many different blocks, I think each swapper received a unique package!<br />
<br />
The third package was a finished item, a mini-quilt, that was exchanged through a paper piecing themed swap (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/fortheloveoffppswap/" target="_blank">#fortheloveoffppswap</a>). So much fun! I truly had as much fun making a quilt to swap as I did receiving a surprise package. Quilters are such a generous lot, and my swap buddy included some fun little extras. What a treat to get a fun package in the mail!<br />
<br />
Instagram has a truly vibrant quilting community. It is such a joy to be a part of such warmth and creativity. If you are not already on the site, check it out!<br />
<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-42904041542661565082017-05-22T12:08:00.003-07:002017-05-22T12:09:58.439-07:00Straight Line Quilting<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGThu9sBHFKB9on6NHyPijkNN9807grtjNJl4fbfLwGnRmQ4mQrd_yfa-mx0Oi0X3p2SCFjAzMkfJilKMpWWrgUafEQJNXhq90Cetuju_OZ64QSZ9_rCRI_Fxv2mSwOW7ow0FiuiWqT_T/s1600/IMG_9931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGThu9sBHFKB9on6NHyPijkNN9807grtjNJl4fbfLwGnRmQ4mQrd_yfa-mx0Oi0X3p2SCFjAzMkfJilKMpWWrgUafEQJNXhq90Cetuju_OZ64QSZ9_rCRI_Fxv2mSwOW7ow0FiuiWqT_T/s320/IMG_9931.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I've talked about straight line quilting <a href="http://thequarterinch.blogspot.com/2016/01/straight-up.html" target="_blank">before here on the blog</a>. It's an easy, modern quilting choice and it adds a lovely texture to the quilt, especially when the lines are spaced closely together. It’s a great choice for those new to machine quilting or those looking for a quick quilting option. It doesn’t require maneuvering the quilt too much (you can just roll it up as you go), minimizing those quilt tug-of-wars.<br />
<br />
I find it easiest to use the edge of the walking foot as a guide. I have guide bars that can be added to my walking foot and I'll often mark quilts, but nothing beats the ease of simply lining up the edge of your walking foot with a seam or a quilted line. When quilting my Bowties quilt, I wanted the lines spaced a half inch apart. Neither the edge of the walking foot nor the notch marking a quarter inch helped much, and I wished the edge of my walking foot was just a smidge further away from the needle. Then, it hit me—my<i><b> needle can move!</b></i> A-ha! I shifted my needle over to the right a bit, allowing me to line up the edge of the walking foot with the seam in the quilt for precise half inch quilting lines. Awesome!<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOb15xjvO54pHXD5G172UQh3l3Ra6UPpeVWM0K0zEZSvgovBCRAJPZIBm3JaQsPbeB_P3H-PtqmT4d7_HaC7KAxbQcIFRrWf82n2djc1OkrVIPy9ztJO5pGKu7-C8FYUkQIi-Rn7XGnOV/s1600/IMG_9925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOb15xjvO54pHXD5G172UQh3l3Ra6UPpeVWM0K0zEZSvgovBCRAJPZIBm3JaQsPbeB_P3H-PtqmT4d7_HaC7KAxbQcIFRrWf82n2djc1OkrVIPy9ztJO5pGKu7-C8FYUkQIi-Rn7XGnOV/s320/IMG_9925.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Some disclaimers—make sure your needle will not strike your walking foot. Broken needles are no one’s friend! And be sure to return the needle to the center position before moving on to another sewing task. You need that quarter inch seam to be precise!<br />
<br />
Happy sewing!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-54814953587048660812017-05-06T11:30:00.001-07:002017-05-06T11:30:34.430-07:00Tumbling Along: All About Tumblers<div class="MsoNormal">
I love the striking simplicity of one shape quilts. My latest project for the Moda Bakeshop is a tumbler quilt with a twist. I call it <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2017/05/bowtie-tumblers-quilt.html" target="_blank">Bowties</a>, and it’s made using solids.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEN_WiNs9oL8IOcMNhfjFFV7wXRE4NOkEI-X56Tftd9qxnveSzScLgOhM7G9OEpRH6P5qquaJEZ9T7e0yb-gpyqjGEQ9qGu5ZzQgbwxJVrPUI5bxqaXrGj_OqtMkvfNVzDlspL4DzK8ubB/s1600/IMG_0009-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEN_WiNs9oL8IOcMNhfjFFV7wXRE4NOkEI-X56Tftd9qxnveSzScLgOhM7G9OEpRH6P5qquaJEZ9T7e0yb-gpyqjGEQ9qGu5ZzQgbwxJVrPUI5bxqaXrGj_OqtMkvfNVzDlspL4DzK8ubB/s320/IMG_0009-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All tumbler quilts are made from a symmetric trapezoid shape, but did you know there is no set measurement for the angles of the shape? Tumblers can be tall and skinny, short and squat, or anything in between. There are rulers specifically for tumblers on the market, and you can also use triangle rulers or Dresden plate rulers. I chose to use a 30-degree ruler for Bowties so the shape of the bowties would be nice and perky.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tumbler quilts have a long history in the quilting world. <a href="http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_556395" target="_blank">This beauty</a> dates to the 1800s and tumblers were particularly fashionable in the 1930s and 1940s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Though a little tricky at first, tumbler quilts are easy to put together once you get the hang of lining up the pieces. You don’t want to sew the edges point to point; rather, you want a little overhang on each side so that the ¼” stitching line crosses precisely where the two fabrics meet. When pinning two pieces together, offset the edges just enough so that the quarter inch stitching line will intersect the two pieces. Picture the edges of the fabrics as making an X. You want your stitching line to go right through the center of the X.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
There are lots of variations when working with tumblers. They are traditionally set in rows, but you can set them in columns, as I did, for a different look. You can make a lantern-type shape by using the same fabric for two tumblers, one right on top of the other. Even the popular half hexie quilt is really just a short, squat tumbler quilt! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Have you ever made a tumbler quilt?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-8077579777103624352017-04-29T09:26:00.000-07:002017-04-29T09:26:57.583-07:00Made With LoveLike many quilters, I gift a lot of my quilts. It truly brings me joy to give a handmade quilt someone I care about. I especially like making baby quilts to welcome little ones. Babies need snuggles!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBBY8j1E4hAReclFE8LxJFUrfC2unG_1cOoxdBDtOZVMGaFOt1HlF9lbewtPUMIZrIeEwLaaEEQflAe9T_sEfdJtLlsrAYL-Z6ZA0iUB8tLmAiL499-bPQ9ipm5m0f8c7aXBEe97GnSi8A/s1600/IMG_9915-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBBY8j1E4hAReclFE8LxJFUrfC2unG_1cOoxdBDtOZVMGaFOt1HlF9lbewtPUMIZrIeEwLaaEEQflAe9T_sEfdJtLlsrAYL-Z6ZA0iUB8tLmAiL499-bPQ9ipm5m0f8c7aXBEe97GnSi8A/s320/IMG_9915-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Recipients of my quilts commonly ask me about washing instructions. I know some people write this information right on the quilt label, but I am not much of a labeler (I know, I know! I need to work on this!). I recently printed a bunch of business cards with washing instructions to tuck into the quilts I gift. Easy and inexpensive! You can easily print your own using a business card template available on any number of printing sites.<br />
<br />
I ordered a lot of these cards, more than I need! I'd love to send ten cards to two different readers. Simply follow the prompts on the Rafflecopter widget below. Happy sewing, everyone!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="71713c352" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/71713c352/" id="rcwidget_8hpa5cjh" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-36620739316998505882017-04-18T12:45:00.003-07:002017-04-20T10:02:50.323-07:00Charm School: Book Review<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love charm packs. I’ll often pick up one or two of these yummy fabric treats as a little indulgence for myself. Vanessa Goertzen of <a href="http://lellaboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lella Boutique</a> is one of my favorite fabric designers, and I have more than a couple charm packs by this talented woman in my stash! Her new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Charm-School-18-Quilts-Squares-Beginners/dp/1617452718/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i2?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pd_rd_i=1617452718&pd_rd_r=G78HV2D1W9AG8FB9TFN0&pd_rd_w=lpH0V&pd_rd_wg=1DTxM&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=2380HYJBR827FJA6CWV3&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=781f4767-b4d4-466b-8c26-2639359664eb&pf_rd_i=desktop" target="_blank"><i>Charm School—18 Quilts from 5” Squares: A Beginner’s Guide</i></a>, features projects using charm squares. The quilts are luscious and beautifully photographed and I wanted to dive right into a few of them!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGOYCiNSA-hZKNa59NV0wXofs0CJm3Bz6N_OnRu7-AM0Mb5cQpaj-t_WYFKtmm3T2CZfcZ2azSuQo2z6Lqy34hQcK9xqhXIVLMebQtPLnD6-GzG5S8OAgzaT9rWHnVRkCrgvvtWYp3S5c/s1600/IMG_9913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGOYCiNSA-hZKNa59NV0wXofs0CJm3Bz6N_OnRu7-AM0Mb5cQpaj-t_WYFKtmm3T2CZfcZ2azSuQo2z6Lqy34hQcK9xqhXIVLMebQtPLnD6-GzG5S8OAgzaT9rWHnVRkCrgvvtWYp3S5c/s320/IMG_9913.jpg" width="256" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">The book is geared towards beginners and would be a great way for someone new to quilting to progress from sewing squares to more complex shapes. Though none of the projects are overly complicated, several are far from simple and would appeal to more advanced quilters. My favorite is Lunch Box with its controlled wonkiness. Madame Butterfly is another standout that will certainly appeal to quilters of all levels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Though the patterns are designed to be used with charm packs, I love that Goertzen gave instructions for using other cuts of fabric, allowing readers to make the best use of their stashes. The instructions clearly explain how many cuts you need so you could even mix and match charm packs with other sizes of fabric. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My only critique is that I would have liked to see one or two projects that require just one charm pack. I don’t always buy multiples of charm packs, and a wall hanging or mini-quilt that used a single charm pack would have been a good addition, as most projects in the book require three or four charm packs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i style="font-family: inherit;">Charm School</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> would make a great addition to any quilter’s library, especially if you love precuts as much as I do!</span>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-74194016130016717582017-04-12T10:02:00.000-07:002017-04-12T10:02:56.803-07:00Pressing Matters<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I invested in a Rowenta iron for my quilting about a year or two ago and was more than a little annoyed to see that my iron was occasionally spitting out brown spots. Well, dear reader, I am embarrassed to admit that the problem was with me, not the iron. I was not properly maintaining my iron. Bad quilter! I am owning up to my mistakes in the hopes I can prevent others from finding those yucky brown spots on their fabric!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My research (that is, finally reading the manual and Googling iron maintenance) turned up three important actions that I was not taking and likely caused the rust build-up inside my iron. (Hangs head in shame.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1-If your iron has a self-cleaning function, use it every two to four weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2-When starching, spray the starch on one side and iron on the other.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3-Empty the reservoir before storing the iron.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After running the self-cleaning function several times (once with a vinegar-water mixture—check if this is recommended for your iron before trying), I am happy to report my iron is working well! I am embarrassed that I was not doing a better job taking care of my iron, but promise to be better in the future!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And, as if it was a reward for promising to take better care of my iron in the future, I picked up this beauty for a steal at my local Habitat ReStore! Practically a twin of the one I have! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaIEclpGGgNWqSlSRsuhZSKVgIXdZZnzQi_jJ9dUixH0qdr8umKEeQHDcz7K0NBBcuQw32d3khC63NM8s9of24M2LguRwFsGJHHjl7KyJFQ-vWNgAVsORr0yjlLCaCI1uH1pKcbYL8Wng/s1600/IMG_0243-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaIEclpGGgNWqSlSRsuhZSKVgIXdZZnzQi_jJ9dUixH0qdr8umKEeQHDcz7K0NBBcuQw32d3khC63NM8s9of24M2LguRwFsGJHHjl7KyJFQ-vWNgAVsORr0yjlLCaCI1uH1pKcbYL8Wng/s320/IMG_0243-2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy pressing, everyone!</span></div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-66969735549641283572017-04-02T12:28:00.001-07:002017-04-02T12:30:07.064-07:00Stitching in Portofino<span style="font-family: inherit;">I recently discovered the awesomeness that is Aurifil thread. It just glides over projects! The wonderful folks at Aurifil and Whole Circle Studios even created a fun little wall hanging to celebrate the yumminess of this thread. I played along, creating a version in my favorite palette of blues and greens. I named this mini-quilt Stitching in Portofino, <span style="background-color: white;">a nod to Aurifil’s Italian home. The Italian coast is especially beautiful and I have wonderful memories of a day spent exploring the seaside town of Portofino. There are so many blues to be seen there, from the vibrant blue of the sky to the dark blue of the deep water by the rocky shore to the blue-green of the tide pools. Such beauty!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I entered my mini-quilt in a contest and I would so appreciate it if you would vote for my project. You can see all the fabulous entries <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=699709" target="_blank">here</a>. Mine is the second one, Stitching in Portofino. You can vote by clicking on the heart in the upper right of the <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=699709" target="_blank">picture</a>. Easy peasy! Thank you!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGMJHicqjZ0iUFd0r5GO8gVIKwQ-TT-wzHvI11CE-EEBMKgS8DxpxyMfNJ_cq5BXxSZzxYQRiKWMWeA1tvgO2hdkeeXL9jzIr7iVa1mnwDAQKo03DYmTguWNuPykyGy_sudz85JLJCdWe/s1600/IMG_9994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGMJHicqjZ0iUFd0r5GO8gVIKwQ-TT-wzHvI11CE-EEBMKgS8DxpxyMfNJ_cq5BXxSZzxYQRiKWMWeA1tvgO2hdkeeXL9jzIr7iVa1mnwDAQKo03DYmTguWNuPykyGy_sudz85JLJCdWe/s320/IMG_9994.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZyiKa_TswPVmYdN5SQRYOb8EFfXCpm8NNOOKXSDrdvcJ-FKzFQXe3m3Rwmdd6PhVbOk8IZYDQgfomTa9dpYZlPsg2iMYuWJQa78174dMKaMLdV0puxwYnIwNZA2c17ZIkDH6y1tyD0Sk/s1600/IMG_9987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZyiKa_TswPVmYdN5SQRYOb8EFfXCpm8NNOOKXSDrdvcJ-FKzFQXe3m3Rwmdd6PhVbOk8IZYDQgfomTa9dpYZlPsg2iMYuWJQa78174dMKaMLdV0puxwYnIwNZA2c17ZIkDH6y1tyD0Sk/s320/IMG_9987.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-6436927875161537682017-03-12T15:08:00.000-07:002017-03-12T15:08:56.601-07:00In My Pocket<div class="MsoNormal">
My latest quilt is up on the <a href="http://modabakeshop.com/" target="_blank">Moda Bake Shop</a> and it’s a fun one called In My Pocket! I designed a block in honor of <a href="http://www.brigitteheitland.de/" target="_blank">Zen Chic</a>’s latest fabric line, <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/true-blue-zen-chic-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">True Blue</a>, that is based on the back pocket on a pair of jeans. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA42MvLuyuGqkOYJfxVGrdErOQGKX5VqkmSxa00MxP6VBEUXWI2g3g-7slDZwszE7RotXknr1Llhievv68v8Bi0YKzcNthGsaMlZdX22JioJ6kYRMLDlgo8Qe6sR4USrJC7mFroZPkeCZL/s1600/IMG_0013.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA42MvLuyuGqkOYJfxVGrdErOQGKX5VqkmSxa00MxP6VBEUXWI2g3g-7slDZwszE7RotXknr1Llhievv68v8Bi0YKzcNthGsaMlZdX22JioJ6kYRMLDlgo8Qe6sR4USrJC7mFroZPkeCZL/s320/IMG_0013.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pattern on the Bake Shop uses a layer cake and makes a big, fun block! I thought it would be fun to also design a scaled down version using charm squares.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Referring to the larger pattern for some more details on the block, use the instructions below to make a mini version of In My Pocket. This little quilt finishes at 40” by 49”. Happy sewing!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2>
In My Pocket: Mini Version</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Materials Needed</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two charm packs</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 yard of background fabric</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
½ yard binding fabric</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 ½ yards of backing fabric (<i>Note: This amount of backing fabric only gives two inches of extra fabric on each side, assuming your fabric is 44” wide. If you need more overage, plan accordingly!</i>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
60-degree triangle ruler (optional)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Constructing Pocket Blocks</i><br />
Take 36 charm squares. Fold in half and trim bottom using 60-degree ruler as shown on the larger version of this pattern. Alternately, you can trim from 1 ½” up the side of the square to the center.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut two 3 ½” strips from background fabric. Cut strips into [36] 3 ½” by 2” rectangles. Cut rectangles diagonally to make triangles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew triangles of background fabric to the bottom of charm square as shown on the larger version of the pattern.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take 36 charm squares. Cut a 2” by 5” piece from each. Set aside the remainder of charm square for the border.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew the 2” by 5” piece to the top of the block to make the pocket block. <b></b> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwf_7HaHViqC7qY4qG5Blz9af_2DD0YocnHYqmgNGJ6K-JSieADuI73T-lpkWyyma4c5n3FgN-PB5l4MDgyNnCeGTad0VSaeWHOc_vXGjZ7KSvPx7PUPILOcShuyXV_8duiMlyW_coVlo/s1600/IMG_0038.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwf_7HaHViqC7qY4qG5Blz9af_2DD0YocnHYqmgNGJ6K-JSieADuI73T-lpkWyyma4c5n3FgN-PB5l4MDgyNnCeGTad0VSaeWHOc_vXGjZ7KSvPx7PUPILOcShuyXV_8duiMlyW_coVlo/s320/IMG_0038.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your block should measure 6 ½” by 5”. It will finish at 6” by 4 ½”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lay out blocks, using the quilt diagram as a reference.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2PdE73XCJOEVmCdX9OyPWySEBe6p57NmY9DzLnwK3mWSlRiE4jxZ9FXZzad6DsxqhktNqapbCwdR0ee6KSdb_IAybNhM9_KcFVFmopM02h711hPzmAxikXSV0h5u0GILAujbEK82eKcP/s1600/Charm+Square+version.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2PdE73XCJOEVmCdX9OyPWySEBe6p57NmY9DzLnwK3mWSlRiE4jxZ9FXZzad6DsxqhktNqapbCwdR0ee6KSdb_IAybNhM9_KcFVFmopM02h711hPzmAxikXSV0h5u0GILAujbEK82eKcP/s320/Charm+Square+version.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<i>Sashing</i><br />
From background fabric, cut five strips 1 ½” by WOF. Subcut into [30] 1 ½” by 6 ½” rectangles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 ½” by 6 ½” sashing strips between each block. Do not add sashing to the left and right sides.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From background fabric, cut five strips 1 ½” by WOF. Trim each strip to 1 ½” by 32 ½” strips.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 ½” by 32 ½” sashing strips between each row. Do not add sashing to the top and bottom.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<i>Border 1</i><br />
From background fabric, cut four strips 2 ½” by WOF. Trim two strips to 41 ½” by 2 ½” and two strips to 36 ½” by 2 ½”. Attach to sides and top.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<i>Border 2</i><br />
From the remains of the charm squares, cut [36] 2 ½ by 5” rectangles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take eight and sew end to end. Repeat. Take ten and sew end to end. Repeat.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From remaining charm squares, cut [4] 2 ½” squares for corner units. Sew to ends of eight rectangle units.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew ten rectangle units to the sides of the quilt. Sew the eight rectangle units to the top and bottom.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<i>Finishing</i><br />
Sandwich, baste, and quilt.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bind.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
The quilt finishes at 40” by 49”.</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-2560225029888276802017-02-20T10:07:00.000-08:002017-02-20T10:11:42.585-08:00White, White or White?<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When I need solids for a project, my go-to fabric choice is <a href="http://www.robertkaufman.com/fabrics/kona_cotton/" target="_blank">Kona Cotton</a> by Robert Kaufman. There's a store not too far from me (though not close enough...) that carries all the colors of Kona cotton (more than 300!), and it is a joy to behold.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Quilters often struggle to find the perfect white. You don't want a fabric that is blinding, but you don't want one that is too creamy, either. The three neutrals I use most often are Kona White, Kona Snow, and Kona Bone.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXw-6wuL2EIlkCdOiE6qORX8Y_6C77QPP3mDjJIP2dcNj27H6KQk0Z4QtH4NZYRcenYoW_fDCioe6bHUhm9JFGHZSmmYmRYp_tnjuLCpv7YILSzD-7KKYjl0A4wmHJ1Nw_mc8AXSSk5c_/s1600/Kona+Neutrals+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXw-6wuL2EIlkCdOiE6qORX8Y_6C77QPP3mDjJIP2dcNj27H6KQk0Z4QtH4NZYRcenYoW_fDCioe6bHUhm9JFGHZSmmYmRYp_tnjuLCpv7YILSzD-7KKYjl0A4wmHJ1Nw_mc8AXSSk5c_/s400/Kona+Neutrals+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Kona White is a true white. It's great when you need a really white white, say for autograph squares. It pairs wonderfully with cool colors, but I find it to be too stark for most quilts. Even when you think you want a white, you probably want a fabric that is slightly off white.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">That brings us to Kona Snow. This is a pretty perfect neutral, and it is insanely popular among quilters for good reason. Perfectly blendable, the fabric is not too stark and not too yellow. It's white enough without being glaringly white. When in doubt, reach for Snow! I've used it as a background fabric many times and it hasn't failed me yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I'm also a big fan of Kona Bone. Slightly more antique feeling, it has a touch of warmth, making it a perfect complement for reproduction prints or warm fabrics. I use Bone when I want the background of the quilt to have the slightest bit of creaminess. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I recently used Kona Silver as a background fabric. While certainly not white, the light gray was an ideal modern neutral. I like using a non-white for backgrounds, and the Kona Silver allowed the main fabric to pop while providing a bit more visual interest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The right neutral background is such an integral piece of your quilt. What are your favorite neutrals?</span>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-88043006913697665872017-01-15T14:59:00.001-08:002017-02-20T10:09:21.784-08:00Aurora<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My latest project is up on the <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/">Moda Bake Shop</a>! Aurora is a fun, bright quilt that features Lulu Lane, <a href="http://corianderquilts.com/" target="_blank">Corey Yoder's</a> latest fabric line.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefafDvBRo2es6V56rm6j9AzQv-r3mPG2XGoeiGtVdhXIFqbvyCW9750hd9ZA3dXm2OHpINPXG3jCTttxcsW-XNN1N4Aq8Y8HrnItfGFfptMZ7o-C6B7I4MWn1s3hE-3ZCylk7MaWYGnlJ/s1600/IMG_8617.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefafDvBRo2es6V56rm6j9AzQv-r3mPG2XGoeiGtVdhXIFqbvyCW9750hd9ZA3dXm2OHpINPXG3jCTttxcsW-XNN1N4Aq8Y8HrnItfGFfptMZ7o-C6B7I4MWn1s3hE-3ZCylk7MaWYGnlJ/s400/IMG_8617.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjGMk8HWIpblYqeae8JUu63Yuq-8_XZAn2Hp8vgArQfdH7zF7jz2Evw-zuf45NfmsT_SJvXT-_R82Q2fKByaJGsEdajuCvvusQ6yXyv9rTbZfjp9TucvqCiHJ42_nYM26D95LBYCyPIcX/s1600/IMG_8637.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjGMk8HWIpblYqeae8JUu63Yuq-8_XZAn2Hp8vgArQfdH7zF7jz2Evw-zuf45NfmsT_SJvXT-_R82Q2fKByaJGsEdajuCvvusQ6yXyv9rTbZfjp9TucvqCiHJ42_nYM26D95LBYCyPIcX/s400/IMG_8637.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsG2OGZqFTyewZTYeoBkwm02yaeTdEmD8AFpddhHTjuEyZ49CfL1GnaaDh60ov0sPX0O9DumhSZpHlqbEk2tHhqv1tKOfQ2Q5eyGXYaie1jlXfLCxXXJmZmPVZLeMRTiofpD-ypH3Yusk2/s1600/IMG_0460.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsG2OGZqFTyewZTYeoBkwm02yaeTdEmD8AFpddhHTjuEyZ49CfL1GnaaDh60ov0sPX0O9DumhSZpHlqbEk2tHhqv1tKOfQ2Q5eyGXYaie1jlXfLCxXXJmZmPVZLeMRTiofpD-ypH3Yusk2/s400/IMG_0460.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love the happy, scrappy look of this project. I used a variety of fat quarters for the project, but I think it would look stunning as a two color quilt, as well. Check out this illustration.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuFgS53KkVvjNy5o1I3UuMS1XNFi6jiK_d31hHrsQ8tAp8N1eHzSnz6RhHncW15UhVPdTXSh95xL-lcX8NxsdJk9_V9AAaU3uh1vxQr1HcDyeytW79W0D2hVNPKPuzHIrZ5lno3Mdb_Hm/s1600/Two+color+version+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuFgS53KkVvjNy5o1I3UuMS1XNFi6jiK_d31hHrsQ8tAp8N1eHzSnz6RhHncW15UhVPdTXSh95xL-lcX8NxsdJk9_V9AAaU3uh1vxQr1HcDyeytW79W0D2hVNPKPuzHIrZ5lno3Mdb_Hm/s320/Two+color+version+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The quilt posted on the Bake Shop is quite large<span style="font-size: 11pt;">—</span>a full sized bed covering! That might be too ambitious for some, I know. The good news is that this quilt is super easy to resize. Each fat quarter makes two full blocks and each block finishes at 12 inches. To resize, figure out how many blocks the quilt requires and divide that number in half to determine how many fat quarters you need. Easy peasy! Here are two additional sizes:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Baby quilt</b> (36" by 48")</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This quilt is arranged in a three by four layout (that is, four rows with three blocks in each row). You will need six fat quarters for this version. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Throw quilt </b>(48" by 60")</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This quilt is arranged in a four by five layout (that is, five rows with four blocks in each row). </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You will need ten fat quarters for this version. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I think this quilt would look great with a border, or with sashing between the blocks. I even toyed with setting the blocks on point. So many interesting possibilities with this block. Have fun making it your own.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Happy sewing!</span><br />
<br />Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-82617639042878543642016-12-02T08:25:00.002-08:002016-12-02T08:30:49.883-08:00Gifts for Quilters: 12 IdeasNeed gift ideas to share with your loved ones this holiday? Or perhaps you're searching for presents for your favorite quilter. Here are some thoughts, all either products I use and love, or ones that are on my own list!<br />
<br />
1-Any quilter would love a subscription to a sampler box, like <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/sew-sampler-quilting-subscription-box" target="_blank">Sew Sampler</a> or <a href="https://www.quiltybox.com/" target="_blank">Quilty Box</a>. I am itching to try one of these! I love the idea of getting a surprise in the mail each month.<br />
<br />
2-One of the top items on my list is <a href="https://www.bernina.com/en-US/Products-US/BERNINA-products/Accessories/Presser-feet/Quilting/Adjustable-Ruler-foot-72" target="_blank">Bernina's new ruler foot</a>. I'm always looking for new ways to quilt my projects and I would love to give ruler work a try on my home machine.<br />
<br />
3-I love small, beautiful things. I've been intrigued by the hand turned seam rippers I see on Etsy. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/258189942/seam-rippers-large-small-reversible?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=Seam%20Ripper%20hand%20turned&ref=sr_gallery_48" target="_blank">This one</a> looks great!<br />
<br />
4-I love, love, love the badges Moda released this year. They make the Girl Scout in me happy. I would love to find some in my stocking. Check out <a href="https://www.missouriquiltco.com/shop/detail/64908/moda-fabrics/-/moda-merit-badge-4" target="_blank">this adorable set</a>!<br />
<br />
5-I could use a good travel iron, and I'm sure many other quilters would appreciate this practical gift!<br />
<br />
6-I've spotted some really adorable tins around. Quilters can always use some containers to house our notions. <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-quotes-tin-set" target="_blank">This set</a> with a variety of sizes would come in very handy!<br />
<br />
<br />
Quilters can never have enough notions. This list includes stocking stuffers, those little items quilters can never have enough of!<br />
<br />
1-<a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/10-pc-clover-assorted-wonder-clips-clover-3185cv" target="_blank">Wonder clips</a><br />
2-<a href="https://www.missouriquiltco.com/shop/detail/70507/brewer/-/lint-brush-double-end-5-34-long" target="_blank">Sewing machine brush </a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3-<o:p></o:p><a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/best-press-lavender-fields-spray-starch" target="_blank">Best Press</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4-<a href="https://www.missouriquiltco.com/shop/detail/59612/prym-consumer/-/needle-storage-tubes" target="_blank">Needle holders </a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5-<a href="https://www.missouriquiltco.com/shop/detail/63055/tacony/-/frog-tape-measure" target="_blank">Cute tape measure</a><br />
6-<a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/bobbini-bobbin-holder" target="_blank">Bobbin topper</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
And, if you're completely out of ideas, know you can never go wrong with fabric!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7336736425796784445.post-20021726735833477462016-11-22T12:05:00.004-08:002016-11-22T12:38:56.906-08:00Neat and Organized<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I recently shared a pattern for a thread catcher over at the
<a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2016/10/thread-catcher.html" target="_blank">Moda Bake Shop</a>. It’s a quick, fun little project that is finished without any
sewing. I find it’s handy to bring around the house with me when I’m sewing
binding or burying threads in my quilts or working on any other activity that
results in piles of thread! The borders are also a handy spot to stick needles
or wonder clips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVbqJ10sKqpOA7MZcDjB_XEyt60D1TkSgKzcEnfKGj_UGExk9LGzgn60uO7_UsateGy8zcD7xKe4n6iFjRH_W6O9kNLQDE7RmYw4zY7-5mjgcG6ig4XluLquE-N3faBxnCEn3B9C8Hzgi/s1600/IMG_9179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVbqJ10sKqpOA7MZcDjB_XEyt60D1TkSgKzcEnfKGj_UGExk9LGzgn60uO7_UsateGy8zcD7xKe4n6iFjRH_W6O9kNLQDE7RmYw4zY7-5mjgcG6ig4XluLquE-N3faBxnCEn3B9C8Hzgi/s320/IMG_9179.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I had a bit of the fabric I used for the thread
catcher left, and decided to make a matching pop up bin for my sewing area using <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013LUKPDW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">this</a> great pattern by the <a href="http://www.fatquartergypsy.com/" target="_blank">Fat Quarter Gypsy</a>. The pattern was well written and resulted in a bin that is the
perfect size to sit on my sewing table for the bits of trash I accumulate while
sewing. I like that I can fold it down and throw it in my bag to bring to retreats or classes. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErp6Yb3vdE2yciqCR-pyiisjjtZ2t6lnw-WE_Ne1z2hdQVzmgGILYfeO3i5YCB7GTjm1PmJwzdO3VJ5BNZcKbsV8JWyIvTHoybKKlU6jtcVU-hnxKzyYOmJT9vwgaJAXkfOAxjo2NkFPA/s1600/IMG_9836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErp6Yb3vdE2yciqCR-pyiisjjtZ2t6lnw-WE_Ne1z2hdQVzmgGILYfeO3i5YCB7GTjm1PmJwzdO3VJ5BNZcKbsV8JWyIvTHoybKKlU6jtcVU-hnxKzyYOmJT9vwgaJAXkfOAxjo2NkFPA/s320/IMG_9836.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Happy sewing!</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Please note: I purchased the product mentioned</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #383838; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. I received no compensation from the company mentioned. These opinions are all my own!</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #383838; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></span></i>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18108473300135852433noreply@blogger.com0