Elsie Quilts

Progress Report: Mariner's Sunset

2012-02-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

I know, it has been a while. We were on holidays the first part of January and planned to be away the whole month, but circumstances changed and we came home on the 16th. During this time, my a-fib started acting up. Instead of being predictable (caffeine/chocolate intake) it was hiccuping for no reason, and lasting for a day or two instead of a couple hours. I've been in the ER three times for cardioverting (not a lot of fun) and have an appointment with a cardiologist on the 8th. I'm on meds that slow the heart and regulate its rhythm, but make me "excessively drowsy" so moving at snail's pace. Otherwise, I feel okay and am not emotionally worked up about all this. That wouldn't help anyway!

All that said, sewing is relaxing. I've pinned the leaves in place on Mariner's Sunset and am happy with the look of it. I will quilt them down when my ambition catches up.

I've also finished the stitching of the bias strips on another Celtic Table Runner, so it is ready to sandwich and quilt. This one is at the request of my daughter. Picture later.

Chomping at the bit...

2012-01-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

Being away from home without my sewing machine -- what can I say? It is a patience-builder, at least. However, there are quilt shops! Yesterday we went to two, and one of them is still whispering to me, "Come back, come back..."

The shop is Sunshine Sewing Company in Margate, FL, near Fort Lauderdale. It is tucked away into a business park and almost invisible. Without a big WE ARE OPEN sign on the door, we might have missed it. However, Fay Nicoll knows her stuff. I asked for "geraniums" and she took me to five places in her humongous collection (at least 12,000 bolts) and found exactly what I wanted in the "end of the bolt" section.

Some of this I bought in other shops, and I did buy other pieces, but love this set and am eager to get home and sew! I also bought some quilt books and another Patsy Thompson DVD.

We have to go home early (as in Monday) because one of our kids got a long-awaited call for repair surgery on a very painful shoulder. While it is 80 degrees here and below freezing there, we are okay with that.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

The quilting is nearly finished on Mariner's Sunset. I'm about 1/3 finished stitching another Celtic Table Runner for my daughter (she specifically requested it). So no new pictures.

This is the Christmas quilt finished last year and now hanging in the foyer of the church I attend. I received copyright permission to sell the pattern for this one, so am refining that. If you are interested, let me know. I can offer only a few copies.

To all who read this blog, I wish you a Christmas filled with joy, knowing that God so loved the world that He sent His only Son...!

A small Lighthouse

2011-12-13T22:15:00.001-07:00

This little project was done way back last April, but I finally got it in a mat and frame, with a label, so now consider it finished. It started out as a patch for Julie's lab coat, but when I found out it was too big, I was kind of glad that I got to keep it. (Sorry, Julie... I know you liked the bird instead...)

Actually, it isn't quilted, but tacked down and sewn to a bit of background. I would love to make more of these landscapes. It is like a postcard only larger, 6 1/4" by 11 3/4" and took about 30 minutes of madly diving into my stash for just the right bits and then madly cutting them up.

Progress Report: Mariner's Sunset

2011-12-07T12:13:00.000-07:00

No, I've not died or moved out of cyberspace... just busy. Some of that busyness is quilting progress on this 101" wide by 75" deep quilt. The sky and most of the sea is done, as is the "sun" --- so I'm working on the rocks and the foreground water. After that is done, I still have to applique leaves on the sky and then quilt them. To see a full view, click here. This is a big project, so I'm about ready to make more postcards!

Progress report

2011-11-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

These are five blocks for a quilt group - we are each to make floral strip sets in "quilt as you go" fashion. One of the leaders will use narrow sashing strips to join them. I made nine, four in medium tones, five in darker fabrics. She will arrange them by graduation of tones. This will be a charity quilt.

The other picture is a close-up of some of the quilting on Mariner's Sunset. This shows about 10" in the middle of the compass where the "sun" meets the water. The water has not been quilted but will have horizontal lines of reflection, etc. Now that this is on the machine and square, and controllable, it is more of a "tamed monster" instead of being so intimidation. It's a pleasure to work on, a bit each day, in my style of free motion doodling.

K-6 Scraps from the Strata

2011-11-11T15:08:00.001-07:00

This small table topper was inspired by my Scottish heritage that has trouble throwing away leftovers that are large enough to become something else. When making K-4 and K-5, I had triangles and shapes that fit on a smaller version of the triangle normally used to make these Kaleidoscope quilts. So I fiddled with them until I thought they would work, made the pattern to fit the pieces, and this was the result. It was a bit picky, but satisfying in the end. It measures about 21.5" across the widest point. I put a facing on the back instead of a binding around the edges.

Unfettered and Postcards

2011-11-04T17:08:00.000-06:00

This quilt is applique, 27" x 23" and quilted in the ditch. It started with a photo of an old gate. The fence and everything else in the photo was falling down and ruined, but the gate stood, an image of strength. After several sketches and value studies, I picked colors from two favorite paintings, raided my stash, and this is the result. The gate turned sideways, in spite of the power of the uprightness of the original image. It just looked better this way. I don't know where to hang it, but am enjoying the results. I also learned that if pieces must hang down, they need to be carefully planned.

These are postcards that I made and will be sending one a month to a "secret sibling." Since she doesn't know me, I doubt she will see them on here, so decided to post them. They are 4" x 6" and were lots of fun to make. I've received two from whoever got my name. When I have all six from her, I'll post them. She is doing a holiday theme. They are yummy!

This is a great way to use bits and pieces. I love the sky in the upper right (I put in the birds with a pen) and the rocks in lower right. That one curled up on me for the photo, but it isn't in real life. A friend ran with this idea and is making all her Christmas cards from bits of fabric leftover from last year's gift-giving!

Who needs sleep?

2011-10-15T10:54:00.000-06:00

After Wayne's Trunk Show, I had to get on my computer and play with some nine patches. I'd made a small mat a few years ago from leftover HSTs and just picked two nine patches at random from it. Don't know if Wayne has done these configurations, but it was definitely fun. In the one on the right, some of the HSTs needed to be recolored to make the medallion effect.

Only problem is that I started it late and didn't get to bed. Maybe I'll call these designs, "With Eyes Propped Open I and II."

For those not familiar with what Wayne does, I drew a nine-patch (used CorelDraw) and rotated, flipped, etc. until I liked it. Changing colors would create more variations. The quilts look complicated, but the blocks are simple. I've already too many UFOs but if God permits sewing machines in heaven, eternity should be long enough....

Trunk Show

2011-10-14T09:54:00.001-06:00

Yesterday presented a delightful opportunity to meet Wayne and Linda. They were at a quilt shop in my city to present a trunk show, a small part of the quilts from Wayne's amazing mind. For this display, he used quilts that came from the idea of nine-patches and pinwheels only. Each quilt is named after a town in our province. The variety is astonishing. You can go to his blog and click on that category from a list down the side.

While the quilts were even better "in live" than the photos and ideas from the blog, the best part for me was the delightful personalities of Wayne and Linda. They are fun, down-to-earth and very friendly. This matches both their talents in designing and making quilts.

Hop on over to Wayne's sketchbook and poke around. He has a website, a book on designing, and another one in process. If you are every in Alberta, look him up. He sells patterns too, and his patterns are not only well-executed, but he also gives several suggestion in each for variations in using them, a real bargain that shows his heart... he wants everyone to share in the fun of "I designed this myself!"

Thanks for a super couple of hours, Wayne and Linda!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-10-10T10:23:00.000-06:00

In Canada, today is officially Thanksgiving. The turkey is in the oven! However, since being thankful cannot be restricted to one day or to one country, my prayers for all to have a delightful day of being grateful for all good things, such as:

- God's grace and blessing
- freedom to live and work and laugh
- family near and far
- times to play, worship, create
- old friends and new
- the smell of toast in the morning
- a good night's sleep
- warm homes
- clean water
- dishwashers and coffee makers
- good food from the farmers' market
- the ability to say YES
- good sense to say NO
- color
- ideas and plans
- clear sky and sunlight
- quilts finished and on the go
- memories
- space for books and fabrics and other stimulating stuff
- and time to make thankful lists, even if I must get busy for now instead of writing forever!

Unfettered progress...

2011-09-18T21:38:00.000-06:00

This one is now in fabric... and pinned to my design wall. I'm waiting for the Quilt University teacher to say "change this..." or "go for it" and then will sew down the pieces, sandwich and quilt it. I'm planning to put a facing around but there will be three parts that refuse to be inside the box... they are already faced and will be tacked in place last. It is about 22" x 28" - big enough for a fairly simple design. I was dreading trying to do an abstract piece, but this is turning out to be a lot of fun. There are about 30 others in the class and watching what they are doing is very interesting.

Quilt University class

2011-09-16T10:36:00.000-06:00

Signing up for a class at Quilt University was likely bad timing for me, but I wanted something small to work on alongside that huge Mariner's Sunset, something that didn't tax my muscles or make them ache.

However, the class has been a challenge nonetheless. I've not done any sort of abstract art, at least not recently or with gusto. This class has pushed me to give that a try. I selected photos, did the sketches, and came up with this one as my choice for the quilt. It was originally a photo of an old gate. It was still upright and the posts and angles said "strength" to me. Even though the fence was down and the gate no longer had any purpose, it also said, "unfettered" strength. So that is what I am going to call it... even though I tipped it over.

This is my drawing, not the quilt. The fabrics are laid out and ready to cut into shapes and sew. I'll post it when completed. Right now, it is only this drawing and an expanded drawing and a big pile of fabrics in these colors!

Mariner's Sunset Progress

2011-09-02T13:17:00.000-06:00

Last Monday I put this monster on a table (where it hung over all edges) and then on my living room floor to get it squared up so the horizon was level, and to trim the edges, and get the foreground rocks in the right places. Did lots of pinning and basting also. Two-three hours later and I took these pictures. I'm too old to crawl around on the floor so needed a massage on Wednesday! My thighs are still a bit sore but I'm accepting that 'no pain - no gain' bit of wisdom.

That is because this is starting to look the way I hoped. Lots to do yet though... the tulle over the "sun" reflection in the water is cut too large, so you can see a gray circle that will not be there when it is done. Also, there is a patch in the sky that needs some lighter tulle. The leaves that frame the sides and top (scroll to sketch in earlier post) will go on later, after I get some quilting done to hold all this together. It is already pinned to the back leader for my HQ 16, but I might baste it instead.

This one is physically hard work! It is now 101" wide x 75" tall, and I do have a place to hang it, but if anyone knows of a hotel or such that has a nice big blank wall, do let me know! My aches are telling me that I would be glad to sell it to anyone who is interested.

K-5 - Fractured & Frazzled Flowers

2011-08-13T17:29:00.000-06:00

This is K-5 Fractured and Frazzled Flowers. The title came from the fabric, design and the goofy way that I quilted it. Just have to finish sewing on the sleeve and the label and it's done. I'm waiting for the next football game :-) Also added a close up so you can see what I mean by frazzled...

I had enough leftovers from cutting my strata to make another star/kaleidoscope. Yikes, this is addicting.

I also have Mariner's Sunset on the HQ-16, partly. So it is going to get finished, but it is 101" wide so will take some time to quilt. The water needs more rocks yet.This is only my drawing since I cannot get far enough back from the quilt to take a picture. When it is finished, I'll take it outside for its photo session!

Finished: Running in Celtic Circles

2011-07-29T17:19:00.001-06:00

This one was finished a week ago, but just did the label so now it is really finished. Started it June 6 in an online class with Quilt University because I wanted some handwork. Nancy Chong's instructions were clear and helpful. The bias was actually easy to make. I'd happily do it again. I quilted around the Celtic design, did lines with a double needle and an outer "border" of quilting with a design using chalk and a purchased template. Did this on my DM.

Now I'm quilting K-5 on my HQ-16 in the same scribble style that Valori Wells is known for. For years, I have looked at the machine quilting done by those who have computerized longarms, and you know what it is like - perfect and totally intimidating. I felt like my work was somehow flawed unless it was like that. Last week, I got a book from the library, Radiant New York Beauties and was so happy to find out that it is okay, even acceptable, to not have your leaves all the same or your squiggles lined up neatly. I quickly dropped my burden and declared, "That is how I want to quilt." I might get more formal with time, but this is a lot more fun!

K-4 Floral Explosion - finished. . .

2011-07-20T11:15:00.000-06:00

Well, not quite. The label is not on, but that won't take long. Lots of quilting on this one. I laid it on carpet to take the photo, so these corners are just the floor! I decided to leave it "round" - actually six-sided, and put it out on the table in our screened deck.

I'm now quilting the Celtic table runner and trying to keep from starting new things until K-5 is finished, never mind the Mariner's Sunset... and Kali's Cherry Tree... and her Japanese queen-size... and about five others.... sigh.

Progress...

2011-07-06T14:43:00.000-06:00

About half done the quilting on K-5 (no name yet) aka Kaleidoscope #5. It is brighter than the photo. It came out screaming too bright so I toned it down, too much. Sigh.

This other one is a Celtic table runner from a Quilt University class. I'd never taken one before and wanted some handwork to do in the evening. It was fun. Now I need to figure out how to quilt it. Will likely call it "Running in Celtic Circles" because both fabrics have either circles or round dots on them.

Lovely day today... I should be out pulling weeds. They accumulate quicker than fabric scraps! However, this is much more fun than weed-pulling.

Blessings of Friendship

2011-07-05T13:10:00.000-06:00

Finally - I can post this one! It was made as a surprise for my friend. It is called, "Blessings of Friendship" and the red is a bit deeper in real life, not quite so bright. I have a couple of detail photos and added them below.

I started this one in January, made good progress, then let it sit for weeks while trying to decide how to quilt it. I could not post it just in case she peeked at my blog. However, we had her and hubby over for tea and peach pie on Sunday and made the presentation. She went home with plans to redecorate her dining room - and a smiling hubby carrying the quilt.

"Blessings of Friendship" is 41" square, my own design using Ricky Tims rhapsody quilt methods. Applique is fused and sewn with a machine blanket stitch. It was a delight to make. The hardest part was sewing the parts together, also putting on the cording. I did a facing instead of binding. So happy that it is done and to send it to a great home!

Celtic Table Runner

2011-06-25T16:39:00.000-06:00

My Internet is out. Canada Post is on strike. I am isolated from the world! Aghhhhhhhhh! So I am taking a Quilt University class and making a table runner that requires hand stitching and relaxing. It is not finished, but coming along.

I'm also nearly finished a Ricky Tims Rhapsody quilt that is a gift, so picture coming as soon as the person receives the quilt.

At least I can come to our library, five minutes from home, and use free Wi-fi. Also, amazing how much a person can get done when there is no procrastinating online, reading email, and checking out facebook. But I am reading the blogs that I love...!

Volvox Tertius Escapes to the Garden — and wins a prize!

2011-06-16T12:22:00.003-06:00

Last night the Edmonton & District Quilt Guild held their wind-up banquet. Good food, fun and lots of laughter. Several people made mo-jo dolls that were used as a fund-raiser. Honors went to former executive and welcomes to new.

The annual challenge competition was also a highlight. Seventy-five Kaffe Fassett fat quarters went out, forty-eight 12" square quilts came back. Each must contain 25% of the challenge fabric. They were exhibited last weekend at the show (held every two years) and wow, what a display. No one quilt looked like any other, even at the same size and using that mustard-colored flower fabric.

The prizes were awarded last night.I'm so excited because my little effort won Judge's Choice! How can that be? The others were so good and so creative. A nice surprise and a nice ribbon! Very encouraging too.

I had to edit this for the "artist's statement" but here is what this one is about:

Volvox is one of the most beautiful microscopical sights known. Those who study such tiny wonders have claimed that “nothing compares to the grandeur of a perfect specimen with daughter colonies inside, free-swimming in pond water.” As these cells develop these new colonies, the parent eventually bursts and the daughter colonies evert, escaping to grow into their own expression of being a lovely orb in the pond.

Even though Millifiore looks like the blown glass of the same name, I could not help but notice that this Kaffe Fassett fabric looks much like Volvox. Did he see these tiny, 1000-celled globular algae and decide to change the form to floral? The possibility motivated me to mimic the shape and activity of the Volvox Tertius. My imagination saw it beginning to reproduce itself. Then, as it gazed at the garden around its home, it suddenly decided it was tired of living in ponds and going unnoticed. It was tired of surrounding flowers basking in everyone’s attention. So why not become one with them? So the microscopic cell simply burst with new life and escaped to the garden. It took on the appearance of the flora and began to send out daughter colonies to the envy of all the garden plants who now are unable to eclipse its dazzling beauty.

Kaleidoscope progress

2011-06-09T18:34:00.000-06:00

Working on more than two quilts at once is fun, but taxing! Here are the latest photos of the kaleidoscope quilts being constructed by our small church group. Isn't it amazing the way one pattern can have so much variety! (Note the old flannel sheets used to pin the pieces to and keep them from getting mixed up.)

The third and fourth one are mine. One of them is pin-basted and ready to quilt. I decided to leave it round and use it on a table. The other one is getting a 1" inner boarder, then another wider border. Not there yet.

Wonky House

2011-05-19T20:59:00.001-06:00

Last Grad Club at our LQS, we were challenged to make a wonky house, not a difficult project. This is mine, created in eight days. I called it "Lives on Prairies... Vacations in Serengeti" and the label says, "Challenged at Grad Club (Earthly Goods) and bored with normal, this little wall hanging evolved -- as did the title. From what is seen, viewers can make up their own story!

A small project like this (17.25" x 25.5") offers lots of opportunities to try new quilt stitches or just need practice with old ones.

I know, I should be posting the kaleidoscopes. Both are ready to sandwich and quilt. I also have another special quilt ready to quilt. Sometimes a person just needs to do something wonky!

Because of Valour

2011-05-05T09:36:00.001-06:00

Quilts of Valor began in the United States. Most of you know that these quilts go to wounded soldiers. Not long ago, a woman from our city's quilt guild brought Quilts of Valour to Canada. She has quite a story of how this started.

This picture shows my second donation to QoV. It was made out of those Arrowhead blocks where two squares are sewn right sides together around most of the outside edges, etc., then cut in such a way that most of the piecing happens without cutting the pieces. They look more complicated than they are.

I used almost all the purple and a lot of my green stash for this one. It is about 48" x 66" (I have to spell valor in the British way, but don't have to measure it in metrics!)

In Canada, much effort is also made to see that all war veterans and casualties from RCMP, police, etc. get a quilt. Reports come back that these quilts are highly valued by the recipients. Our city just had a ground-breaking ceremony for House of Valour, a special care facility for those who suffer from being in a war.

On another note, I've also sewn together one of my kaleidoscopes and am planning a couple of borders. The other one will be sewn together today. Pictures later.

P.S. I love quilters. One asks me a question, and the next one answers it... before I even read the comments! I do have an excuse for not giving more info about this block. I found it in a magazine, made one to try it, then gave the magazine away. Thank you to Cheri for asking and Michele for answering.

Kaleidoscope progress

2011-04-29T17:25:00.000-06:00

These are all using the same pattern, but wow -- look at the differences! They are in various stages of completion. The two red/orange/yellow/green ones are mine, with only two shapes in place. However, I've nearly finished one of them today, but haven't had time to get a photo. The others are from our small group at church. There are eight of us making these. Some are making two. Lots of fun! More to come...

Easter

2011-04-24T09:48:00.000-06:00

Finally, my house is starting to look normal (whatever normal is) instead of like a warehouse. The new floor is in and most things are back where they belong - or out of the house and gone to a better home! Purging unused stuff is my new favorite pastime.

Also, my big desk is in a new spot and that room is now called a "study" - with books on shelves in the closet and along one wall.

My sewing studio looks vaguely like a basketball court (smaller, of course) with everything around the edges, but what it lacks in pretty, it makes up for in functional. There is a quilt top in place on my HQ 16, quilting motif selected. Soon, it will be finished. Feels good.

Now, if you could quilt the fabric in this picture, what would you put on it?

Happy Easter!

Space changes >>> happy me!

2011-04-18T11:14:00.000-06:00

Finally - my desk/writing space is in a different room from sewing/quilting and I am so excited. My attention-deficit, easily distracted mind was yanked by one thing when I was doing the other. Now I'm better able to focus — well, with a few glitches... like no photos today - until I find my camera!

But the bigger-than-I-need desk is in place in its own room (formerly a spare), and all computer, phone, fax, Internet, etc. are plugged in and working. Our son and his fiance lent us some muscle yesterday. We took the desk apart in chunks so we could get it through doors and down the hall. Most of the time I was finding tools for them, or keeping my eyes shut. They stayed for supper and were such a blessing!

Now I just have to move a bookshelf, put my books in it, and then put away all the stuff we haven't given away that was originally in this room where the desk etc. are now... and get the studio looking more like a studio and less like an abandoned quilt store... but it is coming and I'm so excited.

In all of this, I've two Kool Kaleidoscopes started on a design wall, my friend's top ready to quilt on another, a Quilt of Valor draped over my HQ 16 rails, and finished a small competition quilt for our city-wide guild. After the entry goes in, I can post a photo of that. Yippee!

K-4

2011-04-08T10:48:00.000-06:00

Eight people showed up to make Kaleidoscopes. Some were picking colors. Some were sewing their strata. A few got to the design wall stage. Mine got started but I've changed my mind about the way I want to line up the first piece of the puzzle. Here are photos of a couple others. More later...

The first one has 12 mirror-image pieces from one strata set. The second has 12 + 12 mirror-images pieces cut from two different strata sets. The delight in making this quilt (Ricky Tims creation) is in the surprises!

K-4

2011-03-23T10:39:00.000-06:00

I am finished the top for the "secret" project and still cannot post it, but can post the latest start. Our little quilting group at church (called "Fellowship Peacemakers) decided to do Kaleidoscopes again. This is the Ricky Tims version. I've got the strata done for mine. The colors are even brighter than the photos.

In this project, we cut five pairs of strips and sew them together. The strata is WOF by about 10 inches. From this, we will cut our pieces. It is fun, mainly because no one can guess what the final result will be. Since everyone chooses different fabrics and pattern layouts, watching how everyone's quilts come together is really exciting. Not seen a bad one yet!

Still Stitching

2011-03-17T21:52:00.000-06:00

Oh, I'm swamped. We are going to put hardwood down in the room where I've had my craft table, stash (in the closet) and two storage cupboards for sewing, quilt bats and other projects. All of the stuff has to come out and be stored elsewhere. When the floor is done, my desk goes in and all the quilt stuff goes in the big studio where my desk is now. This is a giant overhaul. I'm doing a bit each day and am really tired. All that keeps me going is the vision of what it will be like when finished. All my sewing in one room!

However, I'm a tidy-saver, meaning lots of stuff, too much stuff, nicely stored, but too much of it. Deciding what to keep and what gets purged is big-time difficult. I will not live long enough to make use of all the inspiration that is lined up in those shelves. Any tips? My granddaughter says she'll do it for me, but that is scary!

This photo is a quilt I made for her when she played soccer. It is in the team colors. Everyone wanted one at the time. She is now waiting for me to finish her Cherry Tree quilt (picture to the far right on this page).

As for the current other project, I'm busy putting cording in some seams (elaborate surprise quilt). It is coming, but will be a few weeks...

Animated Blocks

2011-03-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

I am working on it daily, but still cannot publish my latest WIP in case the recipient is peeking. This needs to be a total surprise.

However, I do have an interesting link for you. It is a short film with moving traditional quilt blocks set to music. Starts out a bit boring, but builds interest as it goes. Here is the LINK. This photo is a child's quilt that I made a few years ago. One segment of this film reminded me of it.

Liebster Award

2011-02-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

Wayne over at Wayne Kollinger's Sketch Book, surprised me today with an award. While he didn't send money, or a trophy or anything, not even some fabric or thread (aw, Wayne), he did email me some nice words.

This award is one that you receive, but it is also an award that you give. If you receive a Liebster Blog Award you are asked to choose 3 other bloggers and send them one as well.

The criteria for giving the awards are simple. They go to bloggers who have fewer than 300 followers and who deserve recognition for a blog well done.

My three choices, in no particular order, are:

Elaine at Elaine Adair Pieces because she is a humble lady with a great sense of humor. We've never met but I feel like I've known her forever.

Karol-Ann at SewKalico who lives in two different parts of the world and always has something interesting going on.

Peg at Pieces of my Mind another Canadian who always has interesting things happening in her sewing room and life.

Lots of others, but the rules say three... and the idea is to encourage one another to keep at it!

I AM Quilting

2011-02-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

Been awhile, but I am quilting. I'm working on something for a dear friend, and although she knows I am, I don't want her to see it yet. So no progress reports. The other UFOs are all on hold.

Instead, I decided to bring a little spring into an otherwise wintery day. It is -20 C here (about -3 or 4 F). This is a "new" amaryllis that I bought last spring. The bulb is small, but look what it is doing! Eight flowers so far, with two buds on top that are hiding from view in this photo. I love the color too.

Reading blogs, seldom commenting, working late hours, trying to get some things finished, life is filled to overflow mark. Blessings to all!

Is it Spring Yet?

2011-02-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

I started this quilt in 2002 in a design class. After that many years, all I had were my parts and pieces, a photo, and no idea what my original plan was supposed to be. However, I took the above on our January holiday and this is what came out of it: a new (sort of) design, a new name (it used to be Flowers in the Trees) and some new applique, which I love. It is about 20" x 32" and the sleeve is on, label will be after I finish this post. I'll put in some closeups of those delightful little chickadees.

I'm thinking trees are calling me. It seems that every time I see a tree, I want to make a quilt inspired by something in the tree - the lines, colors, shapes. Anyway, this one was fun, but I am so glad to get one more UFO off my list!

Inspired by Challenges

2011-02-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

Again, Wayne has asked some of us to explain what inspires us to make quilts. I will begin at the beginning.

The quilting bug zapped me in 1985 when I saw a landscape quilt on the cover of a McCalls Magazine. It depicted a Scottish hillside with golfers and being a clan member, I wanted to make it for my husband. I knew nothing about piecing, pressing, or making a quilt sandwich, but undaunted, I found the last piece of golfing fabric left in my city and it was just enough . . . I hoped.

I’d learned to sew as a teen, so that helped. I also worked as a commercial artist designing ads, logos, brochures, and so on, so that helped. I’d painted landscapes, animals, and other nature themes in oils and acrylics. I knew how to use a pencil and computer software. All those art experiences trained my eye to look for patterns, shapes, contrasts, things that otherwise might go unnoticed. However, this quilt was a challenge. It didn’t have a pattern, and it was too small.

The design was based on a 4" grid and the quilt had no border. Undaunted, I enlarged it to a 6" grid and designed a border. I drew and colored each block using CorelDraw. As I worked, I realized that it might be a good idea to make a few baby quilts and take some lessons, but after many months, I finished it as a queen-size. All the points matched (how did that happen?) and I quilted it on my domestic sewing machine for a gift to my golfing husband.

After that one, I made many using patterns that attracted me because of the geometry and color. However, I soon decided to never make the same pattern twice unless I could add variations. Then I started losing interest in using patterns, and even when I find one, it must be difficult or look impossible — at least for my skills.

All this being said, it seems that most quilts begin because of a challenge. It might come from a scene, or photo, someone else’s quilt, a painting, a design on cloth, a carpet, floor tiles, anything that has line, shape, color, rhythm, balance, repetition, or any other elements of good design. I look for that which captures and sustains my attention, something that whispers, “I dare you to make me into a quilt.”

Below are some of the challenges and the source of their inspiration.

My first queen-size, redesigned from a cover photo in a magazine. It looks better in real than in this over-exposed photo taken at a show.

Challenged to make this kit by Cynthia England because it has 7 million pieces and I'm crazy. LOL

Challenged to do something different than everyone else in Phil Beaver's class

Challenged to comfort a family and give them our love after their daughter was murdered. She was blue-eyed, blond haired, and is dearly missed.

Challenged to use up a whole mess of pick fabric and quilt it on my new longarm. Sigh, it was hard.

Challenged to make a skinny landscape - and there will be more of these.

Challenged to use paint chip colors that begin with my initials and the art work of Bob Coonts (he gave permission) plus my love of horses... there will be more of these.

Challenged to put the Dear Jane border triangles into their own quilt, just so I could be called a "goddess" which isn't my thing anyway... but I do like foundation paper-piecing - good thing! Sorry for the fuzzy photo. This one is really crisp in two colors.

Challenged to do something different with a 36" mariner's compass. One blogging friend suggested a sunset and I heard the "I dare you..." (this is the sketch, it is still being stitched, but getting there)

Challenged to make something precious for my precious sister to hang in her dining room

Challenged to make this mountain look real and the rocks and flowers too.

Challenged by my granddaughter to make a cherry tree that looks like a real cherry tree. After finally finding the fabrics, I used several photos, my own drawing, and the Ruth McDowell method to sew it together.

Challenged to make a large wall hanging for our church, so made this design prompted by one on a small Christmas card. Helped by friends, we used a new technique and made it in three panels.

More quilt show

2011-01-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Picassa has these the right way up, so here goes... five more from the Tucson show.

Many AZ themes, this was my favorite

Detail from first quilt

One of several AZ panels

"Black Hole" with elements pulled into it

Amazing portrait quilt

Tucson Quilt Show

2011-01-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

I took a lot of photos, bought the DVD, and had trouble deciding what to post. These are some of my favorites, for various reasons. Some for the color, some for the quilting. Some are large, some are miniatures. Most of these won a ribbon. For a few, I included a close up after the bigger view. The last one is the best of show. Enjoy!

I had several more to add, but took them sideways on my camera, rotated them the right way, and blogger loaded them sideways. Any tips to make that work?

Tucson Show

2011-01-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

We just arrived back in Carefree (holiday spot) from the Tucson Quilt Show. I took lots of pictures and can hardly wait to download them from my camera and share them... but I am so tired that it will have to wait for a day or two. This picture is their raffle quilt. The show winners are even more spectacular.

In the meantime, I'm nearly finished micro quilting a UFO, and have designed and cut out a Rhapsody quilt (Ricky Tims style) while my husband golfs. I've some photos, later.

Why Design Quilts -- Wayne's Challenge

2011-01-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

Wayne Kollinger contacted me with a challenge. He said to answer the question: Why do I design quilts? After reading other responses to this question, I feel my answer is too simple, but here goes.

As a creature made in the image of my Creator, creativity is a given. Some say they are not creative, but everyone is, in different ways. For me, I have a love of color, geometry and the natural world. I see amazing design in man-made things, but the creations of God are even more amazing. He puts a swirl in a shell or a myriad of hues in a flower petal. He colors landscapes that take our breath away, and demonstrates all the elements of design in trees, rocks, even the tides. While a grove of pines may look haphazard to those of us who like to plant things in straight rows, His orderly designs create a beauty that our straight rows miss.

As a Christian, I am called to be like my Lord. Of course this is about righteousness and loving others, but it is also about using that same imagination, that seemingly wild and carefree abandonment to throw sunsets into the sky and fling wild flowers across a field.

Part of me wants order, so I foundation paper-piece and find satisfaction in perfect points and repetition of patterns. However, that part of me might come less from creativity and more from my efforts to control a tendency to a mild attention-deficit problem, or worse, that nagging voice that tells me I must conform.

I have done that — conformed to patterns and precision piecing. At first I didn’t know that I could do otherwise. Besides, I needed to learn the many techniques required to create a quilt. In imitation of my Lord, I am the same — sometimes a mere copyist. However, I am learning that God seldom repeats a technique. When I ask Him for help, His answers are never the same twice. Nor can I second-guess Him. From this, I have learned that creativity can be unique even though inspired by other things. I’ve also seen that there is value in steadfastness and predictability (making patterns, repeating designs), for me the fun begins when I have no pattern to follow and have no idea what comes next.

For some reading this, it will sound odd. Not everyone ties their spiritual life so closely to something as ordinary as a stash of fabric and a sewing machine. However, for me being creative is like breathing. I see quilt designs in everything from light switches to carpenters’ tools. The sad part is that I discovered all this so late in life. I will not live long enough to get everything from my head to the drafting wall, never mind into fabric, bound and finished.

Wayne, thank you for motivating me to think about this and record it. Your creativity is an inspiration. May you be blessed for doing what you do. Sorry, no photos. I’m on vacation and can offer only what has already been posted.

Much Joy in 2011!

2010-12-31T23:33:00.000-07:00

It seems to me when a year ends, there should be soft music playing, or at least a bell ringing. This is a milestone. We made it. Ahead lies more challenges, joys, and geometry and colors... and all things quilters experience.

Speaking of experiences, my DH and I started our year 3000 km from home --- in balmy Arizona. At least that is what it is supposed to be. These first two photos are from the road between Salt Lake and Las Vegas, one in St. George. The last one is on Highway 93 in Arizona on the way to Phoenix. At times, it dropped to -9 C. For most of our trip the temperature was at freezing, and finally reached at a mere 6 C (about 42 F) when we arrived in Scottsdale. We just giggle --- what else can we do? At least we have warm clothes and a windshield scraper.

While DH golfs (it has to warm up) I brought my sewing machine and two projects. One is a UFO that is as old as dirt. Photo below. It is not going to look much like this layout, but at least it will be finished by the end of the month. I've already put the pieces together and plan to micro-quilt it.

The other project is a secret, TBA. It will be for my house-sitter back home, a gem of a friend.

There are some nice shops here, so may do some of that, but also plan to tour a few art galleries and take lots of pictures. We also might be drinking copious amounts of hot chocolate!

Until next time, joy for all 365 days of 2011!

Works in Progress

2010-12-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

It isn't the posting that gets me... it is taking pictures, downloading and resizing for the web... I'm so lazy. Anyway, this is what I'm working on.

Stack of parts & one completed

More parts to sew

Quilt of Valor, using purples and greens from my stash and the odd and interesting block from Anita Grossman Solomon's book, Rotary Cutting Revolution that was published in Nov / Dec Quiltmaker. I have 35 blocks in various stages of completion and will be using sashing between them. The greens/purples blend much better in real life than in this photo???

Parts basted, pinned, sewn, & some just in my head!

This big one is called Mariner's Sunset. My design wall will not hold it so it is pinned to a rather floppy rod so lots of wrinkles. This one is 100 inches wide by 75 high. The paper pattern along the top is my sketch for the tree leaves that are in the next picture, which is my computer sketch. I wanted to do something different with this 35" Mariner's compass. Someone suggested a sunset, and this is the result. I hope to heavily quilt it.

My computer sketch for the above quilt

Working on this one is time-consuming and doesn't make my UFO pile much smaller, but getting this big one out of the way will take care of a huge mental block!

On December 10, my quilt "No Star Shines Alone" was chosen as The Quilt Show's Quilt of the Day! I was strolling through facebook and nearly fell off my chair when I saw it. If you have quilts on their site, check it often. They never told me they picked it, so I'd have missed that thrill otherwise.

Church Quilt officially finished

2010-12-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

I put the label on yesterday, so here is the finished quilt. It is nearly 7 feet each way, and will be hung in our church foyer on Saturday. We called it, "God so loved the world..." and are glad it is done, but really pleased too. Would we make another? I doubt that I would, but maybe something smaller using the same technique. It is mostly batik pieces fused to the black background using Steam a Seam II.

Now I've started another Quilt of Valor using purples and greens. I found a fast and funky way of sewing the blocks that only look complicated. I'll post some photos... but have to take them first! Life is really far too busy.

Odd problem

2010-11-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

My problem is odd... I'm too busy quilting to blog! I AM faithfully reading the posts of my blogging friends, but everyone inspires me... so I'm sewing instead of writing. Our small group finished the Christmas panels for our church. I just finished the bindings and still need to add hanging sleeves top and bottom. It has been quite the challenge. Here is a small picture of the three panels on a table, hanging over the sides, but you can see what it looks like. Hopefully, a full photo of the hanging will be available soon.

But I will be glad when this is done. The fusible makes it stiff and the size also makes it difficult to maneuver. Good for a hanging but hard on the arms.

No Greater Love

2010-11-11T09:32:00.001-07:00

Greater love has no one than this,

than to lay down one's life for his friends.

John 15:13

Noah Rides the Waves

2010-10-28T17:38:00.000-06:00

This one is for our fourth great grand-baby. His name is Ethan and he was born April 28 this year. I had a small panel with Noah and wife, and the other fabrics from that line, a few in my stash for more borders, and it is really colorful. Feels good to have it finished. All it needs is the label (just printed it) and a trip through the washing machine. I always do that with baby quilts.

... instead of putting the binding on a baby quilt...

2010-10-28T08:47:00.000-06:00

All my plans to quilt have been interrupted or sidetracked this week. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I'm trying to look on the bright side. Last night gave me something to smile about.

Our youngest son (who is nearly 40 and does not own a sewing machine) came over with a costume he bought for the weekend. He didn't let me take a picture so I found one that is similar. The costume was size large, but DS is a big boy. The chest was too tight and the elbow 'armor' kept popping off. His girl friend had already carefully opened the seam in back. I used an old sheet to make a pattern for a large almond-shaped addition. Amazingly, he'd gone to a fabric store and found the necessary silver lame that matched the fabric covering the heavily padded armor. I also extended the tabs with Velcro on the elbow patches. He was delighted. All this took over an hour... and while I sewed, he was in my kitchen making himself some supper and having a nice visit with his dad. Cool.

Good start on the bigger version

2010-10-19T20:35:00.000-06:00

This is the center panel of a large quilt our church ladies are making for the foyer stairwell. If you check my last post, you can see the completed small version that I made for myself. Mine is only about 3 feet wide. This middle panel is about that size. It is not sandwiched or quilted yet. We are making good progress as we work most Saturday mornings and Monday evenings. Notice that we picked different colors for this one.

I've also finished a top for a great grandson born earlier this year. (I know, I'm too young for great grand kids) and I'm still working on the Mariner's Sunset and our granddaughter's quilt - or should say quilts.

Life is good, just too busy!

Finally, a post and a finish (well, close)

2010-10-12T08:43:00.000-06:00

Life has been too complicated lately. Company, unexpected assignments, everyone knows what that is like. However, in the flurry of it, I kept wandering toward my sewing machine and am finally finished this Christmas quilt. I call it, "And God became a man..."

After making the pattern (see below) I put it together by tracing each piece to what some quilters call "lick and stick" but it is actually Steam A Seam II. Fabric selections were made as I worked (from the top down) using mostly batiks. After they were all in pressed in place, I sandwiched it using fusible batting, then stitched around each piece using invisible thread. That sounds like a chore, but by thinking ahead, I could stitch entire sections without having to break the thread. Who likes trying to thread a needle with that stuff! That secured the pieces (some of them are really small) and quilted it at the same time.

I put facings on the edges yesterday, but still have to hand-stitch them in place. The label and sleeve are done also. I am happy with it!

This one I made for me, but it was a trial run. Our little quilting group at church was asked to make a 7-foot wide quilt to hang in the church foyer. We found an old Christmas card, tried to track the designer (impossible), and decided this was not for profit anyway. It was my job to create the pattern.

I scanned it to my computer and used CorelDraw to outline each piece. I had to make changes in the design. For one thing, the architecture was wrong for the date of Christ's birth. Also, we decided to make it in three panels, so I had to do that to it too. The pieces were scaled to life size and printed in sections, as many together as would fit on a sheet of paper. We purchased fabrics and donated some of our own for the big one, plus I found our "lick and stick" on sale at Joanne's during a recent trip to Idaho. We are nearly finished the middle panel.

I've never seen a quilt constructed like this... but we are having fun!

I'm still quilting

2010-09-25T07:39:00.000-06:00

I've been working on three quilts. One is the giant Mariner's Sunset that covers our pool table. The second is a small "lick and stick" Christmas quilt with a zillion pieces and a stained glass look. The third is GD's Japanese Cherry tree... although I've been showing it off more than working on it --- which when translated means I'd not yet figured out how to quilt it! However, doing some sketching yesterday, I 've come up with a plan, so more sketching until I'm confident, and that one will go under the needle! No pictures today. Most of what I've done so far is not a significant change from what is below, except the Christmas quilt. Since it is taped to a table, I will wait until I can get it in a more photo-graphical position.

We have lift-off

2010-09-17T22:12:00.000-06:00

Well, that is how I felt today after my lovely 19-year old GD came over and had a look at her cherry tree. (See previous post and I can't believe that it was posted that long ago!)

She is thrilled, decided it should be a wall quilt, likely mounted on a studio canvas, and "I'll keep it forever." She agreed that her bed quilt could then have a kimono in the place she originally wanted the tree. She loved my selection of Japanese fabrics for it, and we are both happy.

The best part is this: she asked me to 1) make baby quilts in advance for the four kids she plans to have some day, and 2) make larger quilts in advance for them when they grow up. Don't you love the optimism! She made me feel at least ten years younger. Now I have to live long enough...

Btw, the picture is a pattern from Jukebox called "Shear Bliss." I have it, but haven't made it yet. After today, it might get pulled out of the drawer!

So excited...

2010-08-23T21:19:00.000-06:00

Today the tree is blooming --- finally, at least the piecing. Counting the week-long class I took to learn how to do this, plus time at home to get it done, fifty hours. This goes to my granddaughter. I'll tell her that she can repay me later, like push my wheelchair.

This one is all pieced, never counted the pieces but lots of them. No applique and a bit of hand-piecing to replace a few pieces that didn't look right when it was done. Changed them out for another fabric. (Oh, just noticed my flash put a funny glare in a couple of places. Ignore.)

The pattern and piecing were done using Ruth McDowell's method, which I like. Drawing the pattern was difficult, but selecting fabrics and fussy cutting them was worse. I'm very pleased with the results even though it took so long and was a big challenge. I suppose the bigger challenge now will be figuring out how to quilt it! I might be calling my instructor and yelling help -- again. LOL!

This is what I've done so far on the Christmas mini. Our church gets one that will be more than twice this size (it will be about 84" square). Mine is about 32" wide. So far all the little pieces are just stuck on with Steam-a-Seam II Lite, not even ironed. Now that the tree is finished (sort of), I can get back to this one... and the Mariner's Sunset monster spread over my pool table.

Progress report day 6

2010-08-15T08:51:00.000-06:00

The five-day class ended Friday. I did a bit of filing in on Saturday. This is still in pieces pinned to the wall. There are two copies of the pattern; one on the design wall, and one made of freezer paper that is cut up. Those pieces are pressed to the back of carefully selected fabrics (some need to be changed - not so carefully selected) and pinned to the pattern.

It still looks pretty messy, but the tree shows nicely. The second photo is a close up. I will be taking a few pieces off and dividing them so I can add something in the middle to break it up. (Like drooping branches going into the grass in the detail photo below, just to the right of center.)

This one has been a huge amount of work, but also tremendously satisfying. I didn't have a clue Monday how to draw it, Tuesday how to make the drawing into a pattern, Wednesday what it would even look like. But by Thursday the vision crept into the back of my head. Now I'm excited to sew it together... but first some rogue pieces need to be replaced, and I don't like the sky in the upper right. This will be 35" x 48" or thereabouts.

Progress report

2010-08-12T21:58:00.000-06:00

This picture is the progress on the Christmas quilt, my smaller version. The one my group will do for the church is 84" wide. This one is about 35" wide. It is on hold this week while I am in classes.

This next picture might look like a dog's breakfast. It is the progress after four days in the class taught by Margo Fiddes using the Ruth McDowell method for creating a design, a pattern and then the quilt. (See previous post.)

This has been challenging. I am a detail person and this requires thinking big picture first then working toward detail. The process goes something like this:
1. Select a picture and draw it at least 11" x 17"
2. Divide it into logical sections
3. Enlarge it to the desired size. In my case, it is 35" x 48"
4. Trace the drawing to the shiny side of freezer paper.
5. Put registration marks and ID numbers, etc. on the dull side so the pieces can be sewn together.
6. Select fabric for each section and piece.
7. Cut apart the sections, one by one.
8. Press each freezer paper pattern piece to the wrong side of the fabric selected for that piece.
9. Pin the fabric/paper section just created to its place on the enlarged drawing.
10. Repeat 6-9 when you goof up, as often as necessary.
11. When all is done, sew it together, section by section.

As you can see, I've several more sections that need fabric ironed on to the freezer paper patterns. Those are the white parts. Also, look at the bottom: some parts of the foreground grass have fabrics rolled up and pinned there. This is part of the selection process. I've left them there so I don't forget my choices.

Also, when I ironed fabric to some sections, it didn't work. Repeat 6-9. OR, it needed a softer edge, so had to make one piece into two, OR it needed a bit of another color, so had to add another section.

I'm excited today, finally. In the beginning, I had no clue what I was doing and no vision of what this should look like. Today, I can now envision what the final quilt will look like. Stress and many decisions. This is why quilters who do work like this earn the big bucks when they sell their pieces!

Design classes

2010-08-09T21:00:00.000-06:00

This week is full. I'm taking classes from 9 am to 4 pm each day where I'm hoping to learn how to draft patterns like those of Ruth McDowell. The instructor, Margo Fiddes, took classes from RM and now teaches her method. (Be sure to look at this one.)

There are only four of us in the class. Two are doing floral designs. The third is doing a person, and mine is a Japanese Cherry tree, modified photo on the left. Drawing a pattern is more difficult that I'd anticipated. I'd taken classes on constructing McDowell's straight-line piecing and curved piecing, and loved them, but designing your own pattern is different and very challenging. Now that I've had a little bit of instruction, I wish I were doing cherry blossoms. They would be easier! My GD wants a tree though, so by the end of the week I'll know if she gets one. Right now I'm thinking that it isn't going to happen!

And the winner is...

2010-07-30T15:05:00.001-06:00

My neighbor picked a random number and the winner of the 200 post giveaway is "Momhooten" - whose email address I cannot find. I did a bit of detective work and think that this name belongs to Debi Hooten. Debi, please contact me (my email is on my blogger profile, click link on the right) and let me know your mailing address. I have a prize for you.

On another note, remember the big Christmas quilt in the works for my church? Well it is so pretty that I decided to make a smaller version for myself. This is a diversion from the Mariner's Sunset that sometimes (aka most of the time) makes me feel overwhelmed. Here is the progress so far on the little Christmas quilt... it is about 36" wide.

Above is the full-size pattern pinned to rich blackish fabric.

These are a few sky pieces (top left corner) that I put down last night using Steam a Seam 2 Lite. Tracing them took longer than putting them in place. This batik is lovely. I'm going to put some jewel "stars" in a few spots later. This is too much fun!

This is it — number 200!

2010-07-26T14:51:00.000-06:00

GIVEAWAY • 200 POST. If I posted every day, this would be more than 1100 - yet I'm glad to have made it this far, even if this happens only in fits and starts. For this occasion, I have a giveaway that includes books, fabric, and a few surprises.

TO ENTER: Post a comment sharing your favorite quilt color combination. Omit seasonal/themed/children's/ quilts, which have their own color requirements. POST your comment on today's entry. I'll pick someone randomly. Try to include your email or a link to your blog or website.

Also, I am celebrating the start on my Mariner's Sunset (for want of a better name). In roughly this order, I have:

1) the backing/batting fused and basted loosely, not being sure if fusible batting will hold on this size of a quilt. Here it is folded in thirds.

2) the fabrics selected, mostly. I just toss them in a pile to see if they work together.

3) the fabric strips sewn for the background water, horizon, and lower sky.

4) and those strips laid out along with the other fabrics on top of the batting/backing on our pool table (ping pong top over it) in roughly the right places. Tulle is included, but I'm not sure if it should go just over the "sun" or all across the water as here. It really dulls the bottom of the quilt, but would it look odd if it was just on the compass?

I am doing other things today, but will get back to this. I have to go two floors from the table to my sewing machine. The joy of exercise!

Also, all tips, suggestions, advice, is welcome. I'm making this one up as I go.

Setting Sun is under way!

2010-07-23T18:59:00.000-06:00

A few posts/months ago I posted a sketch of a quilt idea for my 36" Mariner's Compass quilt block. Since the block is so large, the quilt is huge, well, not exactly. It is about a queen size (about 70" x 100") but big for a wall hanging. I'm laid it out on a ping pong table because my design wall is too small. Some of the colors are changed, and I managed to get my computer to put "tulle" over the bottom half of the circle~

So far: the horizon of the sea is sewn to a thin line of very pale gold. I've two colors of tulle, navy and a dove gray. Right now, the navy looks the best, but it will be near the last to go on. Don't know if I should cover all the water with it or not, but the price is low so I bought 3 meters of each color. I have lots of fabrics to work into this piece. Several watery looking ones for the water and lots of variety for the sky. I'm just wondering if I will still be sane when it is finished. Or am I even sane to start it?! One positive. The table is in our walkout and my sewing machine is on the second floor. I will let you know how many pounds I lose running up and down the stairs.

Also, this is post #199. Next one will give details for a draw, just to celebrate #200.

"With Gratitude" finished

2010-07-18T21:54:00.001-06:00

This quilt was started in a class called "Shaded Four Patch" on April 13, with Margie Davidson. I finished it today. The quilt, label, page in my book, photo, all done. The colors show a bit richer in real life.

After that class, I took another about selecting quilting designs. The instructor, Margo Fiddes, challenged me to think of something distinctive for quilting each piece. I didn't have this one in class, but began to imagine a subtle cross representing sacrifice, a heart to represent valor, and lines that speak of tension and yet peace. Of course the program "Quilts of Valor" was on my mind too. The cross is at an angle with the top in the upper left. Sorry, this does not show better, even when you double-click the photo.

I've contacted Quilts of Valor so this one will go to a wounded soldier. A local woman spearheaded this program in Canada. This year, she received "Woman of Distinction" Award from our city or her efforts. See more about QoV at this link.

Also, I made a recent decision is to work on one UFO at a time until it is done. More and more I'm noticing how much easier it is to focus when my sewing space is relatively tidy without too much stuff in it! So this means slowly, slowly. It is a stretch for me. I'm so easily distracted or bored.

Notice also that my posts are nearing 200. I'm planning some kind of contest or giveaway. Do drop back!

Blue Collection

2010-07-14T10:16:00.000-06:00

A few years ago, I finally finished this needle-turned, complicated challenge, and gave it to my sister. I'd not seen what she did with it until last weekend. Her dining room feature wall is dark blue, and this quilt really pops on that background. It is called, "Blue Collection" and was designed by Maggie Walker. I bought the block of the month kit online, but cannot remember where (too long ago!) I switched some of the fabrics and added more leaves to the middle tree. It was quilted on my Baby Lock, rather heavily. I'd forgotten how much I liked it until I saw it again on her wall.

Christmas Wall Hanging

2010-07-07T10:29:00.000-06:00

I've been busy and my computer arm aches! Our church has commissioned our small group of quilters to do a huge wall hanging that will be displayed during the Christmas season. We found an old design, altered it to suit our size and space, and I've been drafting the pieces and printing them. This hanging will have three panels, 22" and 38" and 19" wide, and will be 78" long. It will have a stained glass look. We are hoping to use batiks.

In this picture, some of the colors didn't get 'added' so where you see black, think greens, dark blue, etc. and the "leading" will not be white as it shows here.

Anyway, the plan is to make the sandwiched panels using a light-weight batting. Then we will pin all the paper patterns on each panel where they go. The patterns are all number coded and there is a printed "key" in case we get confused. Make that "when we get confused."

Then we will cut out the fabrics, one area at a time, and replace the paper patterns with fabric pieces. We are going to sew them on through all layers, so attach them and quilt it in the same step. We also plan to put sleeves on top and bottom, to put a weight in the bottom to help it hang well and not flap about.

My question: has anyone done anything this large? If so, what are the challenges that we should be aware of? We love the look of it so far, and keep telling ourselves it will be like putting a jigsaw puzzle together.

"It's A Boy!"

2010-06-23T22:29:00.000-06:00

Confession: the middle of this quilt is a panel. Another confession: I no longer call them "cheater" quilts! At least not this one, because it was a lot of work. I added borders and used it for practice quilting on my HQ Sixteen. I went around all the toys, filled spaces, did some in the ditch, and must say that a baby quilt isn't the best for all the stops/starts that this one wound up with. There were oodles of thread ends to bury, but it turned out better than I hoped. I still need oodles of practice. Panels are a quick way to try new stitches.

I've no particular newborn in mind but several women in our church are pregnant. It will eventually find a home. It just needs a label — and a baby boy.

Playing

2010-06-12T09:47:00.000-06:00

With Blogger's new design options, I might play forever... but there are too many quilts in my head. I'm hoping they soon allow the option of this design but using my own photo. Maybe they do already, but I didn't see it.

Name suggestions, anyone?

2010-06-03T09:35:00.002-06:00

These days are so filled with "responsibilities" that quilting gets shoved on the back burner. I'm in a room full of fabric, sewing machines and equipment, needles and pins, thread and patterns, and they seem to be sticking their tongues out at me.

However, I have a top done. The blocks are called shadowed squares and no triangles were cut before sewing; a rather ingenious way of making them. The border is going to be about as wide as a block with parts of the design jutting out into it. It is designed on paper and the pieces cut. Maybe this will get finished before the end of the year... at least at the rate I'm going, it could take that long.

Oh, the quilt in the photo doesn't have a name either. Any ideas? It will likely go to a project called "Quilts of Valor" for a wounded Canadian soldier.

I'm being pushed a bit though. My granddaughter is coming over this weekend to finalize her fabric choices for a Japanese quilt that she helped me design. So I need to get this one off the wall and into the "finished" pile so I can start hers!

Blessed by friends!

2010-05-25T22:05:00.001-06:00

This is embarrassing. In March (yes, March) Julie celebrated her 300th post and offered a couple of books. I was a winner and so surprised. The parcel arrived a few weeks ago, but not just the book. She send more goodies, such a sweetie. While I thanked her privately, I wanted to do it publicly. I guess late is better than not at all. Thank you, Julie.

However, I've messed up again. Karol-Ann and I swapped some fabrics, quite a feat since she is in England and I am in Canada. And I am certain I got the better end of the deal. For my reds, she sent this lovely bundle of nine African fabrics. The day before it arrived, I was on her blog and saw the little change purse and thought, "I should have ordered one..." and there it was too! We have emailed, but I wanted to say "Thank you Karol-Ann" publicly too.

Quilters are thoughtful and generous. I'm so thankful to know Julie and Karol-Ann. You are both favorites. I'm hoping some of your good qualities rub off on me.

Facing a Large Quilt

2010-05-05T15:15:00.000-06:00

I've done facings before, but tried a combination of two new methods (new to me) this time for My Mountain. Because this quilt is large and heavy, I wanted something strong to hold it. This was easy and I really like the results. The steps are as follows. I hope the pictures correspond, but if not, they will be in the right order.

1. Cut four 2-3" squares. Fold in half diagonally and press.

2. Cut four strips of fabric 4-5" wide and the length of the sides and ends of the quilt, less 2". Fold in half lengthwise and press.

3. Cut 4 strips the same length of fusible web. I used Stitch Witchery.

4. Sandwich and quilt the quilt. Do not trim the edges. Instead, using rulers, mark where they will be trimmed with a pencil, fabric marker, etc. where you will be trimming off the excess batting and fabric.

5. Lay the triangles on the right or top side of your quilt, matching the corners. Pin.

6. Lay the strips on the edges with the folded side toward the center of the quilt and the ends just overlapping the triangle. Try to have them meet just at the triangle's fold line. Also, line the raw edges with your marked trimming line. Pin in place.

7. Use walking foot, sew 1/4 inch seam all around, through all layers and pivoting at the corners.

8. Turn the facing pieces out, and press them open. Stitch around through the facing and the seam allowances under it, going as close as you can to the corners. (The triangles will prevent you from going right to the corners.) This is a dressmakers tip to make facings stay inside and not show on the outside.

9. Turn the facings to the back. Press and make sure the edges are straight, then slide a piece of fusible under each facing and press again, fusing the facing to the back of the quilt.

10. Hand stitch. This might not be necessary on a small quilt but it was on this big one - that has a lot of quilting and is heavy!

Enjoy!

My Mountain -- just needs a label

2010-05-04T11:55:00.001-06:00

This one is finally finished. It is pieced and raw edge applique, first done on a piece of pellon and then quilted. I bound it with a facing (will post the steps next time) and am very happy with it. It is 36.25" wide and 41.25" high.

I called it My Mountain because I didn't do much of what the instructor in a landscape class said. For instance, dryer lint for clouds would have not been the right thing on this piece.

The close-ups are a tad blurred (will I ever conquer this camera?), but they show how that floral fabric was cut into bits and combined with batiks and quilting to get the effect of a rock garden.

I'm really happy that it is done - almost. I'm not saying done until the label is made and on it. The following photo shows why I could not take my photos outside today. In AB we say, if you don't like the weather, wait a minute. This is the fence and some bushes in our back yard. The grass IS GREEN under all that!

Do you EQ?

2010-05-01T11:39:00.000-06:00

Some days I just want to play and not cut, sew, stir up my stash, or make another UFO! So I open up Electric Quilt and make a quilt, or two, or ten.

I bought EQ way back when and upgrade to each new version. EQ6 is really a great program, but now EQ7 is about to be released with even more great features. Their website says: "EQ7 helps develop your creativity. Combine blocks, borders and virtual fabrics, turning your computer screen into a design wall. Print quilt labels, draw original block designs, even import scanned fabric and photos. And no math needed – EQ7 calculates yardage and all pattern sizes & seam allowances." See more here.

The cool news is that Electric Quilt is also offering to sponsor a giveaway on 10 blogs, starting May 3. Whoever is chosen as one of the bloggers can give away a copy of the new software and get a copy for him/herself. I've added my name, and hope to be one of the ten. Have a look at the EQ blog for details and keep coming back in case my blog is picked and you want a free copy too.

Candle Mat finally finished, except for the candle

2010-04-26T12:59:00.000-06:00

Why does it take two weeks to get at a simple last step? This paper-pieced mat was finished --- except it needed more quilting on the outside border. I decided holly leaves then procrastinated.

Finally, after less than 15 minutes, they are on there. I used freezer paper and drew one freehand. Then I cut four, turning a few upside down for variety, ironed the results around the edge, quilted around the templates, added a few 'berries' between the ends of the leaves, then moved the templates to the next spot. So simple.

The finished mat is 15" and has a label with a binding. It was a class exercise, so I had to write on it by hand, but at least it is legible.

My other project, the large mountain scene, has lots of quilting and is nearly done. I've a few bushes to draw into it, and then will be putting on a facing so it looks more like a painting than a quilt. I found a great method by combining a few online discoveries. I'll post the steps next time. Please don't hold your breath. Life has gotten too hectic to make any promises when that will be!

Candle Mat

2010-04-17T09:33:00.000-06:00

Just dropping in so no one thinks I've died... I am still quilting my massive mountain, but in the meantime, took a class (to get out of the house) and made this. It was a pattern for table runner and place mats, but I wanted a mat for a Christmas candle so changed the shape. It isn't quilted yet... but soon. The photo was taken on the carpet and I 'edited' that background out... so the edges are a bit furry. One of these days I'll figure out the right way to use that software! Happy Spring!

My Mountain and giant amaryllis

2010-04-06T11:35:00.004-06:00

This is the quilt that is keeping me from starting my next project. It is about 37" wide and 44" high. I'm using my DM and putting lots of quilting on it which my body can only take for short spurts. Progress is slow. Also, my camera is still doing the blurry on some settings, so this picture is sharp, but the color is pretty good. Can you see the basting pins?

This close-up shows a bit of detail in one part that is finished.

The last picture is one flower my late-blooming amaryllis. Wanda's post reminded me to take a picture. There are two stalks, and the second one has yet to come fully into bloom, but this one has four massive flowers, each more than 7" across. It is totally amazing, considering I did everything wrong caring for it so it would even grow.

Back to the sewing machine... well, I have to buy groceries first. Life getting in the way of quilting - again!

It only takes a spark...

2010-04-01T11:53:00.000-06:00

Thanks for the comments and ideas about what to do with my circular Mariner's Compass. Julie sent me a few ideas, but it was this brief comment in her email that set my brain in motion: "or a setting sun with most of the sky above it filled with quilting..." and at that, I was opening my graphic arts program, importing the photo of this round flimsy, and playing.

This is what I came up with... and now am so excited to get it made. Of course it will need lots of quilting to define the water, and the colors are not right. I've some fabrics in my stash but may need more... hmm, challenges!

We have a large wall in our walkout that will be perfect for it. The top is 36" in diameter, so this one will be large! Thanks again, Julie, for that spark of an idea!

In a quandry over a circle

2010-03-29T11:06:00.000-06:00

These days have been busy with many things, but I am quilting another UFO and it seems to be taking forever. Lots of thread, but I'm liking the results. No photo yet.

So here is a photo of another project. It is from a class and rather ordinary in the choices of colors and fabrics. I want to do something to make it more interesting. I could add beads, or maybe set it in an unusual way. I've sketched all sorts of possibilities, including a sling that holds it suspending like a big ball. This is sitting in my UFO bin because I'm feeling a bit brain-dead about it.

If anyone has any ideas, or links to another way to set a circle besides the ordinary methods, I'd love to see them. Or maybe some sort of addition or color surprise that makes this more snappy. The paper-piecing made the points perfect, but I'm looking for distinctive. Even ideas for off-the-wall ways to quilt it would be helpful. Challenging is okay!

New Photo, Not Blurry

2010-03-12T16:55:00.001-07:00

After some fiddling, I took a new photo of DJ Edgy Friends and put it in the previous post to replace the fuzzy one. I also did a retake on the postcard landscape and will put it here so you can see the difference fuzz makes! It shows up most when you double-click and look at the mountains.

The binding is on, just needs a label!

2010-03-09T12:37:00.002-07:00

Finally this UFO is finished. I have to make a label, the easiest part, but other than that, it is finally done. The photo is blurry, something my camera has decided to do no matter the settings, so I need to get out the instruction book.

Anyway, I started it about the fall of 2004, got stalled, but decided no more quilts until this baby is done. There are nine DJ blocks (4 and 5 of two patterns), the four corners in the original DJ design, and all 52 triangles, only in two basic colors. I quilted it with swirls that are like the swirls in the darker fabric, not realizing it until after doing a few, and did basic outline/echo around the pieces in the triangles. The binding went on machine on front, by hand on the back because of that angled edge. Oh, I am happy!

I also finished this little class project, a small one doing various methods for landscape quilts only little, like each postcard 4" x 6" or so. (Sorry for the error before editing) The quilt is 13 x 22 or so. It is quilted heavily in the borders, mostly because I felt like it and the fabric suggested it. The sample the teacher brought to class had a few simple landscapy lines, and that would have looked good too. This one also needs a label, so technically isn't finished, but close enough.

Clarification re Dear Jane

2010-03-05T18:22:00.000-07:00

After all the encouraging comments from the last post, I decided to read it again and realized how muddled it was. Sigh. The photo is the Dear Jane queen-size quilt that I completed a few years ago. The quilting on it is perfect because I sent it out and it was done by computer/long arm -- and it cost a bundle so it should be perfect!

A triangle border normally goes around a Dear Jane, but I didn't put them on mine. However, I decided to make them, all 52 of them. They are now done, but in different colors than this DJ quilt and in a setting and quilt all of their own. I'm calling it "Dear Jane and Her Edgy Friends." It is about 60+ inches square, sort of. If you go back a few posts, there are some pictures. It is two colors and I did a good job of the triangles. The quilting on it is what I'm not happy with. I did part on my HQ 16 and part on my DM (the detailed work in the triangles). It has taken so long, and I just want it done. It had been in my UFO pile for too long, causing lots of procrastination. So I determined to do nothing else until it is finished. Sigh... only 25 more triangles to quilt and then the binding and label.

Thanks to all for the cheerful and encouraging comments. It is great to be a quilter (even when I wish I could wrinkle my nose and this one would magically be totally completed!)

Slugging away...

2010-03-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Since I've been busy quilting Dear Jane and Her Edgy Friends and not posted for ages, here is a photo of my Dear Jane with the 169 blocks. As you can see, I didn't lay it out or make it in the traditional manner. This works for our spare room queen bed.

I thought maybe I'd do another one sometime, but now that the border triangles are done (didn't put them on the first one) and the resulting top is being quilted, that might be abandoned. This pattern seems to take forever. So does the quilting, partly because I'm putting lots of stitches on it. I'm not happy with my workmanship, but that is what seeing computer quilting does to you... perfection, no skipped stitches, etc. After beating myself up and suffering from green-eyed monster bites, I've decided that the Dear Jane slogan is correct after all: Finished is Better than Perfect! I can live with that.

The top is finally done - with triangles, all 52 of them!

2010-02-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

My DH held it up and I took the picture --- one or both of us must have been shaking (or laughing)! Sorry for the blurry, but I am celebrating. This Dear Jane leftover triangle top is finished. Now for a name? Crazy Jane's Edgy Friends comes to mind. Any other suggestions?

I've still to sandwich and quilt, but this is a major dent in my UFO pile. I'm still arguing with myself whether to put it on the EQ 16 or do it on my DM because I've planned some intricate quilting in the background spaces to pull this rather odd arrangement into some sort of order. Now I have to go buy some thread...

Crazy Jane - Ten More Triangles

2010-02-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here are ten more Dear Jane triangles. Knowing myself, I'm not going to start or work on anything else until these are finished. There are six left to do. Most are pieced, paper-pieced, and/or appliqued. They don't take very long so I've no idea why I want to procrastinate. When they are done, they will join the others (52 total) and several plain triangles, two blocks from the Dear Jane quilt, and a few borders to make a large, squarish quilt, squarish because the edges are shaped like this \__/\__/ with a bit less of an angle. They should lots of fun to bind - but I'd better stop thinking about that or I'll do some more procrastination!

Two more Triangles

2010-02-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

There are only 13 triangles left, and I've cut the fabric for each, including those that are appliqued, pieced, foundation paper-pieced, and those that have a combination of several techniques. No photo. I did several loads of laundry today, cleaned bathrooms, and went up and down stairs until I don't want to see another one --- but I did get one more triangle paper-pieced and appliqued.

Traveling

2010-01-27T10:08:00.001-07:00

We are on our way home (to snow and cold), but I am so excited... went to the Tucson Quilt show last Saturday. I took a couple photos then found out that they were offering a CD of all the quilts in the show so I ordered one. It won't be in my hands for a few weeks, but when it is, I hope it will permit me share some of them with you. It was an excellent show with some amazing and creative quilts.

In the days before we left AZ and since my last post, I completed a couple more of those Dear Jane triangles. This is a UFO with a huge procrastination attached, so I'm happy for that progress.

I'm eager to sleep in my own bed, but already miss the warm weather and relaxation we enjoyed in Scottsdale and area. These two pictures represent our dinner after the quilt show at a Japanese restaurant (food cooked at the table) and a tree in the Joshua forest northwest of Phoenix.

More triangles

2010-01-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

Good week for sewing -- DH on the golf course and lots of time to make 6 more triangles. We also took a day trip to Tucson and have checked out a few other places in the area. Next year we hope to come back.

It is raining here today. Bob is at the Ping factory and I am enjoying the quail that come up under our window every day to get their quota of something from the ground. Today their little top knots that normally bob with every step are soaking wet and look as if they put gel on them. I couldn't get close but if you look close you might see one in this photo.

More Crazy Jane Triangles

2010-01-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

Seven more done. I'm taking my time, making mistakes, but what does a poor grass widow do when her DH is golfing 3-4 times a week!! Note that I have the names of each triangle pinned on, but keeping track doesn't matter much since they will be rearranged differently on my quilt from the original Dear Jane.

We are doing all sorts of things besides golfing and quilting. One is seeing some of the best fine art in the southwest. As a child, I remember wanting to go to Scottsdale to see the paintings. What we have seen in the past couple of days was worth the long wait!

Crazy Jane progress

2010-01-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

I've finished five, nearly six, of these Dear Jane triangles, part of the border of the original pattern, but I'm making another quilt from them. They are 5" wide at the bottom and 8" to the point (finished size). You can easily figure out why I am calling this one "Crazy Jane" or something like that! In case you are not familiar, DJ has no directions. Quilters share online various ideas about how to make them, but what works for one person, might not for another. All I have are printouts from my DJ program, and I went and did them 4.5" instead of 5" so have to redraft all the patterns by hand. I didn't put the DJ program on my laptop and don't have a printer here anyway. I have 30 more to make, some hopefully will be easier than these five.

Arizona is okay, but typical for me, by day 10 of any holiday, I'm starting to think about home. The weather helps keep me here. It seems Scottsdale / Phoenix has had the nicest weather in the USA all week. DH is golfing and we have done some sights. Food is good and Scottsdale is so clean -- no trash anywhere.

Thwarted for a day or two

2010-01-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

My sewing plans for this month away from home have been altered (pun intended). The person who offered his condo will be in it until tomorrow, instead of leaving yesterday as originally planned. Car problems. So my sewing machine is there, but we are still in a lovely hotel. DH is golfing and I am writing and emailing and walking and thinking a great deal about finishing UFOs and starting new projects.

I brought one UFO with me. It will likely be called Crazy Jane because I've so assessed myself for wanting to do this. When I made my Dear Jane quilt, I didn't do the traditional pattern. Instead, I added plain blocks and left off the triangles. When I was told I could not be a Dear Jane goddess unless I did all the blocks, I went to work on a plan to use them in a second quilt. My design is the top picture, and the progress is shown in the next one. Note that I laid the wide border strip of triangles close to the center in the photo, but it will need a plain border between the two, as shown in the drawing because it does not fit exactly (at least to my recall).

This project is all that I brought with me and do not expect to finish it, but at least make a few more of those complicated triangle blocks. Who knows, it might be more fun than I anticipate. One thing that I am enjoying is 70+ weather, no wind and the Barnes and Noble book store across the street! Oh, and my hubby first spied a wonderful quilt shop in Carefree and was signaling to turn before I even spotted it. He even came in and had a good look around before opening his book in front of the in-store fireplace (more heat so not needed but nice anyway).

Joy to you

2009-12-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

This tree has no decorations but the snow, and for me, that is more lovely than a bunch of lights!

Tomorrow could be busy, so today I wish you a Merry Christmas, with blessings beyond count and joy in your hearts.

"When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son." Galatians 4:4

Sunshine Lap Quilt

2009-12-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

This one is another UFO finish. It was made from the leftover blocks of a group quilt (see Dayspring...), It is about the right size to put across the knees on those days when this city is the second coldest city in the world! (Last weekend, -46 C)

I decided to use this one for quilting practice also, so quilted different motifs and filler patterns in each square. That was fun and a good idea because practice is helpful yet a six inch square is not too intimidating. It helped me know which motifs are fun and which ones I would rather never do again! Also, this produces a more useful result than practicing on muslin, and uses up orphans and scraps!

Giveaway

2009-12-13T08:03:00.000-07:00

Green Fairy Quilts is giving away a layer cake, jellyroll and a really cool pattern. Click the link to check it out and see photos!

My Christmas Gift?

2009-12-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Just realized that I'd promised pictures of the new floor, but hadn't delivered. Here are a few. The wood was set on the diagonal. Cost more and took longer, but my DH wanted it so that is what was done. It is dull outside today, so a couple of these seem darker than normal.

Our main floor is very open concept. The U-shaped kitchen has the dining area on the north, living room on the west. The hallway goes to the south and the front door. One of these views is from the front door in, with my sunflower quilt on the wall beside the door to DH's den and the arch to the kit/LR and dining. Turn left there to a bathroom and the door to our walkout, and a few steps down to the laundry and garage door. Clear as mud?

Anyway, it had been lino in the kitchen/dining and carpet in the halls and LR. The difference in my allergies has been astounding and worth the mess of doing it and cleaning up afterward. It is darker that before, so we are adjusting to that. If anyone is contemplating hardwood, it gets my vote!

Roosters on the Beach & Monkeying Around in the Leaves

2009-12-07T10:10:00.004-07:00

About a week ago, someone gave me a germ that proceeded to clean out my insides - thoroughly. I spent several days either sleeping or... well, no one needs the details. After a few days, I sat around a lot so had occasion to finish two projects, small ones.

They were both leftovers from a charm pack that I used to make a floral top using disappearing nine patch blocks. That one is not quilted yet, but I did some practice designs on these two smaller table mats.

The first one is a combo of rooster and beach fabric. I had quilting thread that was black, red and gold, one of those combos that you wonder why you bought it, but it was perfect for this one. I kind of like the results.

The second was monkeys and leaves. I tried a few fillers that I just made up as suggested by the designs on the fabric or my deranged mind. The border shows up the best, and it was a make it up as I go design too. The bindings are done, the labels are on, and as soon as I feel up to it, I'll finish the floral one, which is larger and not quite as quirky in fabric combination.

Paint Chip Challenge

2009-11-26T11:05:00.001-07:00

Grad Club, the group that meets every month at my LQS, had the "Paint Chip Challenge" windup yesterday with everyone displaying their creations. What fun. Every size of quilt on display, plus a hat and a basket made in the colors each selected to match the initials of their name.

After we oohed and awed over them, we were given voting slips so each one in the group could pick their favorite.

I was really surprised when the winner was announced... my Paint Chip Pony! On the right is a picture of the prize for the challenge (after I took everything out of the fancy wrapping). The group that meets in the evening repeated the process so there is two winners, but I've not seen the second one yet. This was a lot of fun and the quilts were fabulous.

Strips that Sizzle - I have a copy!

2009-11-22T08:14:00.002-07:00

A cousin that I seldom see or talk with emailed me last week. She saw my "trade a book" request and sent me her brand new copy of Strips that Sizzle. She took a class with Margaret Miller but isn't using the book. She didn't want to trade either, just wanted me to have it. Isn't that neat! I also found that her and her hubby will be in the same area where we are taking our winter vacation. Her husband golfs too, so maybe the two of us can to some quilty things while they are on the links.

Leaves, Logs, and Rainbows

2009-11-21T10:45:00.002-07:00

This one is finished. I made the label last night and will sew it on today. It is from the leftover blocks used in "Home Sweet Hearts" and shows how different a block will look with a different background. I also did the sashing in the same fabric as the background, which makes the blocks look like they are floating. The two on the sides extend over the outside edge, so the binding goes in a little 'hiccup' around them.

When I quilted "Home Sweet Hearts" I tried doing the traditional cross-hatch and not only felt it was messy, but didn't enjoy the process. (I guess it is hard to like making mistakes.) So this one got the kind of quilting that I love - make it up as I go. There are some inconsistencies in leaf/flower sizes, and I'm still not crazy about what I did in the logs, but this was fun and I like it. Double-click for a better look.

Right now, this new one is hanging across shutters folded back so the window is letting light through it and giving a stained glass effect. I can enjoy it from my computer chair and when I walk into the studio. It is 35.5" x 48.5" and has a hanging sleeve.

My main level is still a mess, but most of the new floor is done. Pictures later, after the dust is cleared!

Dusty Reno & Half Crazy quilt

2009-11-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Dust is everywhere. The installers came yesterday, ripped out lino and carpet in kitchen, dining, living, and L-shaped hallway. They have put down a bit of the new flooring, a patch that I have labeled "Hope"!

I'm doing something quite fun along the line of patches. These are out of my scrap drawer labeled "Blue" and are crazy patched onto a 7" very lightweight pellon square. When each was finished, I trimmed to 6 1/2" so will have 6" squares, finished.

I'm thinking sashing right now, but will have only enough blue to make a row. So I'm now thinking maybe a rainbow that goes around the color wheel. I sorted blue-green fabric last night and have more of it than these darker blues. This is easy and fun and using up even the oddest shapes!

I'm not doing the traditional Crazy Quilt embroidery though, so am going to call the quilt "Half Crazy."

I've also another PHD finished, but haven't made the label yet on so will take a picture then, and post it soon.

Paint Chip Pony - Finished

2009-11-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well, nearly finished. This one needs a label. I might not put a sleeve on it, hang it instead with those rings that have a clip on the bottom. This was so much fun to make. Again, a big thank you to Bob Coonts for his inspiration and permission to make quilts based on some of his creative ideas. This is only 14" square. I'm thinking a full-size horse could be a dramatic quilt, but also a challenge!

Trade books?

2009-11-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Does anyone have a copy of

Strips that Sizzle

by Margaret Miller

in really good condition? I would like to trade you. I offer one new copy of either of the following:

Ruth McDowell’s
Design Workshop
or
Jane Sassaman’s
The Quilted Garden
or
Katie Pasquini Masopust’s
Color and Composition

Let me know!

Home Sweet Hearts

2009-11-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Another finish. The name of this quilt is courtesy of Peg at Pieces on My Mind. While some like this, I'm not all that fond of the pattern or the fabrics that I put in it. I tried to quilt it on my HQ 16 with the same freedom that I have on my domestic machines, and was humbled by the results. Sigh. However, all that said, it is done, and it looks better than my grumbling. Best of all, that UFO pile is a little smaller.

Paint Chip Pony

2009-11-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

This week I'm working on a "paint chip challenge" given at "Grad Club" at Earthly Goods. Each participant has to find three (or more) colored paint chips that begin with their initials, in my case, EPM. I have one called Midnight Blue. The E's were harder.

Anyway, I started with this horse painted by Robert Coonts. It is much more brilliant at his website! Also, he generously gave me permission to interpret his art as quilts as long as I gave proper credit. This is my first attempt.

I drew my own version, not a lot different from his, but I didn't trace it, and put in another background. I liked his color scheme, so mine is going to be something like it.

Now I am layering it with fabrics in the colors of my paint chips. I want to paint the eye so that it looks real. The quilt is about 16-18" square. I used to have horses, draw and paint horses, so am hoping that I can quilt it somewhat densely, in lines that work with the contour of the horse and yet make it quiltery. So far, this is what Paint Chip Pony looks like - a bit of a blank stare, but he has some blue fire in his nostrils!

Full size photo of "Just a Tad Over Par"

2009-10-30T10:43:00.002-06:00

With the comments on Judy's quilt, I realized my post for my golfing quilt did not have a full view photo. Here it is.

It was in a show, hence the fingers at the top holding it up. I've never take a full photo myself, so this is a scan of the one taken at the show. Remember, par is average in golf. Over par is below average, so the title is a play on words. It is heavily quilted, free-motion. I even put a hot air balloon in the sky. My golfing husband loves this quilt.

The pattern was in a McCalls quilting magazine, 1995 or 1996 and is called "Follow Through" by Cynthia Wheeler. I saved it, but no dates on the pages. Try this link to contact Cynthia. It is not in the McCalls archives.

Judy Villett - Quilt Artist & Instructor

2009-10-29T11:08:00.001-06:00

Yesterday's Grad Club at Earthly Goods brought back the person who had the idea for a quilter's degree program in the first place. She is Judy Villett who now lives in Vancouver. She brought two quilts, but I didn't bring my camera. Her slide show did feature this one. It is done in 2" squares, watercolor fashion, with some fabric painting added for effect.

Judy encouraged me during one of my first "degree" classes on color. I brought "Just a Tad Over Par" (above par in golfing is not as good as below par so this title is a word play). When I showed it to her, she actually gasped and told me I should put it in a show. That remark is one of the big reasons that I'm still quilting.

One note, any references on the www for Judy's website will take you to one that you do not want to see, so just have a look at the link on her name above.

I am still quilting that hearts/log cabin quilt and working on a little one for a paint chip challenge. Pictures soon. Right now I hardly have time to quilt, never mind take pictures and blog. Sorry about that.

Pity Party and a Giveaway

2009-10-21T10:41:00.000-06:00

Today is foggy and yet bright. The light in my studio is perfect. What am I doing on the computer? Aghhhhhhhhh!

With that out of my system, I'm thinking of a giveaway. Right now, I'm up to my ears in writing deadlines and don't even have time to quilt. :-(

However, I'm still reading blogs and discovered a really neat giveaway at this link and if you enter, mention my blog in your comment. The more comments she receives, the more fabric she will give away. I love this idea and should plan a giveaway soon!