Claire's Chaotic Corner

Some Sewing....

2012-01-28T19:18:00.000-05:00

Haven't been able to work on any sewing for myself,
but I've been really busy at the shop!!

For those who don't know, I now work at The Quilt Shoppe in Bryan, OH...it's ok to be jealous, because if it were you working there I would be completely jealous =)

I've been working on several projects:

Count On It: Art To Heart

So far I have January thru April done

And cute place mats from the this...

Made 2 of these

Made 2 of these also

Also making a tea towel to match...photos to come later, I promise!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

I'M BACK!!!

2011-12-30T14:33:00.000-05:00

HELLO EVERYONE!

After a much needed break I'm starting to get back into the swing of things again. My oldest son, Alex, started kindergarten and he has the same teacher that I had when i was in kindergarten. And my younger son, Jon, keeps me on my toes...always on the go and never slows down....starting to miss nap time :(

I've also moved, but only 30 minutes away...I'm closer to my family and friends...couldn't ask for a better bunch of people.

Oh, i almost forgot to tell you the must exciting part....

I got a new job, the BEST job ever....I'm working at a local quilt shop....EEEKK!! I love getting up in the morning to go to work, because I know I will be surrounded by fabric and I get to sew. Only been there for about a month and already have 2 quilts done for the shop and currently working on an applique project. Wish i would have remembered to take pictures, but I promise to post them soon.

Yeppers, I life is great right now!!

Everyone have a great weekend and I will see you next year!!!

Claire

If you hadn't noticed already.....

2011-05-22T12:58:00.000-04:00

I'm kinda of taking a break...from blogging that is.

Going through a rough patch in life right now, but I have my sewing to keep my mind off the bad things.

Currently I'm working on 2 t-shirt quilts as graduation gifts which need to be done in the next the week...no pictures right now, but I'm taking them as I sew along, so there will be a huge post the next time I come.

Well that's in for now...off to go sew....just wanted to let everyone know that I'm still here!!!!

I'm still here, I promise....

2011-03-09T14:46:00.001-05:00

Okay, okay, okay....i know I've been lacking here in the posts, but I have been busy, busy, busy in my sewing cave.

I couldn't wait anymore and I got started on those mitered squares from One Yard Wonders.

I had to stop for little bit, since they're not lining up properly...I thought a break would do me some good.

So, I started on the mini quilt for the DQS10...

Still have a few more items to add before I'll be ready to quilt it.

Then a few weeks ago I got an e-mail from Kate. She wanted me to proofread a quilt pattern for her....

I WAS SIKED!!!!

Sherbet Dreams Quilt Pattern

I used Free Bird by MoMo for Moda.

Out of pure boredom, I got out my paints and a canvas I never used so I could created this.....so simple it only took me a few hours to create from start to finish....I use a template from here.

And yesterday, I decided to wipe up this pillow from Cluck Cluck Sew.

Close up of center.

After the pillow was done I got to work on this mini quilt.

Still working on quilting this.

So you see I have indeed been very, very, very BUSY!

I Love Getting Mail...

2011-02-11T16:49:00.006-05:00

notice anything different about package???

take a closer look at the stamps!

still stumped?? than look here....

all the way from NORWAY!!!

awhile back i noticed a link on facebook on One Yard Wonders page and came across this blog and she was having a giveaway!!

and before i enter into any giveaway I always cruise the blog to see what the person is all about....i found that katt has such the cutest little rats ever...no, seriously...go see for yourself, there's two in the header on her blog!!

when i got the e-mail from her i.was.syked!!!! first time i've won anything EVER in the giveaway world! so I've been waiting patiently for this to arrive so i can share it with all of you.

isn't the bag cute....and i just love the tags she uses..if you can't see it in the picture is says, "thatdamncat"! gotta love her humor!!

I Almost Forgot.....

2011-02-04T19:44:00.000-05:00

For Christmas this year i made the nieces dolls,

and i almost forgot to tell you all.

The dolls were tailored to each girl....

the clothes were chosen from their favorite color....

the hair matches the hair color of each niece.....

so without further adue here they are:

For Kamille

She loves purple.....took me forever to find the right kind of purple to use,

but after searching through my whole fabric stash i finally found it.....

if she didn't love i was going to keep it for myself!

For Ayla

I wasn't quite sure what her favorite color was,

but she's 4 years old and what 4 y/o girl doesn't like pink...

am i right! But i have to be honest, i originally made her for Kamille,

but after considering the the colors for a awhile,

i just wasn't satisfied about them and decided they were more pink than purple

For Hailey

Yes people, my niece has fire red hair,

which is actually a very dark orange-red color.....

and to top it off she's about as 'tom-boy' as you can get....

she must take after me, because i was a big tom boy growing up!

And Hailey's favorite color just so happens to be blue,

which goes great with orange.

Aren't the dollies lovely??

I used Dahlia the Doll pattern for Melly & Me.

When first opened the pattern I about freaked out...

8 pages of instructions...

i thought i was going to die...what did i get myself into.

But once you start working at the dolls,

it starts coming together very quickly!

Look What I Rec'd in the Mail......

2011-02-04T14:43:00.000-05:00

my potholders from my partner, Tiffany (flickr: love2quilt7), for the Potholder Pass #6!

Are they lovely??? And just in time for Valentine's Day.

I absolutely love them and I'm enjoying the squishy stress reliever ball that came with them!

Thank You So Much Tiffany!!!

Busy Beaver Here!

2011-01-30T15:11:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know I've neglected blogging lately, but I have a good reason. I swear!

I've been sewing away and away and away....

I've got most of this quilt top done, but I'm uphappy that most of the blocks don't line up....but i do plan on finishing it.....maybe add some borders or something.

I used Bali Pops from Hoffman Fabric in Berry Bliss and Spumoni.....I needed some more red strips that Spumoni had, so I switched out some of the littler blues from Berry Bliss for them. Hopefully I can get this done by Memorial Day.

I also got the my second pot holder done except for the binding.

I was also debating on whether or not to join in on the Postage Stamp Quilt Along hosted by p.s. i quilt but i finally took the plunge and the quilt top looks great.

I used a Fat Eighth (18" x 11") of Riviera from Connecting Threads....unfortunately this line can no longer be purchased. Because I used a FE I decided to alter the top a little bit, which I think turned out great.

Plan on using the remain pieces in the backing....more on that later though. And I'm hoping to get this quilt done late March or Early April.

And finally I've been working on some tote bags from One Yard Wonders.

I used 100% linen for the outside and 100% cotton on the inside....i also imbellished the outside with some great iron on decals from Sukie. Aren't the lovely???

For the lining I use Woodland Wonderland (JY15 Green) by Jay McCarroll for Free Spirit Fabrics.

I ran out of linen for the handles for the other tote bags, so you'll have to wait to see those later.

So, for February I've got more items on my do to list....

I need to get crackin on a mini quilt for the Mini Quilt Swap 10

Finish the binding on the potholders for the Potholder Pass 6

And hopefully get started on this lovely Mitered Square Quilt from One Yard Wonders.

I found this fabric at my local Joann's.....it has such a great variety of colors and width of stripes...I honestly cannot wait to get started on this....and FYI i purchased 2yds in the hope of making a slightly bigger quilt, since the one in the book is for a baby.

Well I'm off to some more sewing....

Potholder #1 Coming Along

2011-01-17T20:00:00.000-05:00

I've been working on the potholder today, which didn't take as long as i thought it would.

I didn't want to the traditional applique look, instead i sewed just inside the design about 3 times around all the pieces and i used my free motion foot to achieve the look i was going for....

So what do you think?.....i layered the front with regular white natural cotton batting and solid white cotton fabric on the back. Now don't freak out....i'm not done with the potholder yet....it still needs insulated batting...i just didn't want the batting to start coming apart in the sewing machine and adding all that cotton fuzz in the bobbin area

Here's what the complete reverse looks like, but you will not be able to see it when i'm done.

This is the completed front...i love the outlining ALOT!

At this point I have added a layer of insulated batting and the backing

A look at the back

All I need to do now is add the binding and a loop or something for hanging.

PP#6 - First Attempt

2011-01-11T19:56:00.000-05:00

It's been snowing all day, so what's a girl gonna do....SEW!!!

I've been working on the first potholder, but haven't sewn anything yet.

Here is what i have so far.

I hope my partner likes it and I hope I'm following the rules.....

It's suppose to monotone and aqua!

Pot Holder Pass #6

2011-01-08T16:19:00.000-05:00

It's official....I'm participating in round 6 of the Potholder Pass.

Click here for the Flickr group

A few minutes ago I received my partner for the swap and her/his preference is AQUA, along with about 50% o the people in the swap. So, I went digging through my fabric and scraps and this is what a came up with...

I already have an idea for all this wonderful fabric...I just hope it turns out as great as it looks in my heads!

Eye Candy for the Wall

2010-12-20T16:19:00.000-05:00

I took some of this

Garden Party by Anna Marie Horner for Free Spirit

and an 18" x 18" canvas and with a little help from a staple gun, turned it into this...

Now all I need is some paint, thread, and beads.

This project is going to a while for me to do, but I'll try to keep you posted on the progress.

Flouncy Bag for my Sister

2010-12-19T23:19:00.000-05:00

If you need any last minute gift ideas may I suggest One Yard Wonders...this book is the BEST!!

I made the Flouncy Bag for my sister, with not some, but a LOT of changes. Why?? Well, I've made this bag once, which I didn't know that there was some corrections.

My Changes: (1) The D-Rings I bought were on the small side, since the directions don't tell you size to get, so I adjusted the width of the strap to fit the D-Ring better. (2) I didn't like the opening size of the bag, the book says the bands need to be 10" long, but the corrections say 11" and I made it 12". (3) Since I made the bands longer, I needed to adjust the Lining size as well. (4) I also had to adjust the bottom of the lining. (5) I used a coordinating fabric for the lining.

And, finally.....I added an inside pocket! Not just any pocket, but a zipper pocket, which I had to figure out on my own, since I do not have any books that explain how to do one. There was a LOT of thread ripping going on, at least 4 attempts that I can remember...I started to lose track...but after 4 hours I finally got it!

Considering this is the first zipper I've ever attempted, I think I did a great job!

Well, I hope my sister likes it....she's already seen the fabric, but she didn't know what I was going to make with it.

Mug Rugs Continued...

2010-12-18T23:02:00.000-05:00

After the first 2 mug rugs that I made for my step mom, I got to thinking that 2 is not enough, so I thought 4, since there are a lot of items that come in a 4-pack...but for some reason that didn't work for me either, which led to 7, one for each day of the week.

Without further a due, here they are...

Set of 7 Mug Rugs

Mug Rug#1

Mug Rug #2

Mug Rug #3

Mug Rug #4

Mug Rug #5

Mug Rug #6

Mug Rug #7

All of the single shot photos have an insert of what the back looks like.

And earlier today, I got to see my step mom open them and SHE LOVES THEM!!!

Mug Rugs....

2010-12-16T23:56:00.000-05:00

I've been sitting around all week trying to figure out what to get my stepmom for Christmas....she's practical kinda gal, so nothing fancy or useless for her.

Then I thought to myself, why don't I make her something, but what??

Off to browse the many books of ideas and as I was looking in one book I saw coasters, which told me to make her a mug rug...they're popular right now and she's an every morning coffee drinker!!

Mug Rug #1

Made with scraps left over from this quilt and kona solids.

Mug Rug #2

Made from the same as above.

Sorry for not having photos of the backs, but my camera ran out of battery life and I wanted to get this posted before the end of the day. I promise to get more photo's...maybe with my stepmom holding them up. And first thing in the morning I'll be finishing the binding.

Trim the Tree....Ornaments Rec'd

2010-12-12T21:02:00.000-05:00

Here are the 3 ornaments that I received from the Trim the Tree Handmade Ornament Swap.....

This little birdie came from spottedstonestudio.....and she sent that great looking handmade glass snowflake!

Winter Mitten from piecefulchaos!

Made from leftover quilt batting, which she sprayed with something that had glitter in it to make it a little stiffer.

Bella the Christmas Dotee from magicjessnrach!

She came to me all the way from Australia!!!

I love all the ornaments that I received from my swap partners....they all look great on our Christmas tree, which is already a hodge podge of handmade/craft ornaments!

Trim the Tree Handmade Ornament Swap...

2010-11-12T23:00:00.000-05:00

...i joined this group on flickr.com after doing 2 modern siggy swaps and 2 potholder swaps...these are starting to get addictive!

We make 3 ornaments for 3 different people and we'll receive 3 ornaments from 3 different people....so here is what I made...

I hope the partners i received like them!

Another Baby Dino

2010-11-12T22:10:00.000-05:00

The gal that my mom works with who took the 3 cats, also wanted me to make something for a baby boy and this is what i decided on.

I really love the blue and orange polka dots. I now wish that I would of bought more of it.
Again, I use the Dilbert Dino pattern from Melly & Me.

Freya the Fairy

2010-11-10T21:46:00.000-05:00

Well I had to put my Wonderland project away for right now....I need to get started on some Christmas presents and I only have about 6 six weeks to get it all done.

My sister invited me to a birthday party for her boyfriend's daughter....or another way to look at it is, I'm invited to a birthday party for a classmate's daughter...I like the first version better.

So yesterday I got out my stash of patterns and found Freya the Fairy by Melly & Me...

...I'm hoping she likes it!

I think she's a little punky cute....I made some adjustments along the way, like the wings.

Now if only I can figure out how to get the head more round-like...I'm not liking all the bumps along the seam.

Wednesday WIP.....

2010-11-03T22:14:00.000-04:00

Remember when I showed you the rainbow fabrics....well here's what I've been up to...making progress on my Wonderland quilt top.

So what ya think...I'm liking it so far, but this is going to take me a while to complete.

AND THIS IS WHY...

Yup people, that's a quarter! I hope this turns out as great as it looks in the head!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T10:14:00.000-04:00

The had a blast Trick or Treating this year...they even got cupcakes from the neighbors! Our neighbors are awesome...they're old enough be my parents....and when LJ was born (winter time) it seemed we got dumped on with snow about once a week and he and the other neighbor took turns snow blowing our driveway for us! Like I said they are AWESOME!

Anyways, back to Halloween...we went to Andy's parents on Saturday, they only did one small housing addition plus the one his parents live in...Andy's parents direct neighbors were excited to see the kids dressed up...they've enjoyed watching them grow up.

And then on Halloween Day the boys went Trick or Treating in our neighborhood, but we didn't go through the whole addition, since they got tired about 45 minutes into it.

They got enough candy to last them at least until next year, which if it turns out anything like last year I'll be throwing away about of it!

Costume Club WIP

2010-10-19T11:33:00.000-04:00

Slowly, I've been working on this new quilt for my youngest son...

I'm using 12 FQ & 1 panel of Costume Club by Sheri Berry that I purchased from the Fat Quarter Shop. I'm also using 4 - 1/2yards of Kona Solids.

I'm still here...

2010-10-16T22:28:00.000-04:00

For those you who have not heard, I've been sick.

It started with an UTI and by the time I got to the doctors office it turned in a bladder infection. The doc gave me some antibiotics and some pain pills, since I was having pain in my lower right back. Within a few days the pain pills were not working and pain got so bad I went to the ER.

Once in the ER, they started drawing blood right away and did a CT scan...turns out I now have a kidney infection and kidney stones...after some more blood tests, they found that the infection is now in the blood stream as well and the ER doctor wants to keep me over night observation.

That over night observation turned into 3 days in the hospital...I spent my 27th birthday in the hospital, not fun....he blood infection was a lot worse than originally thought....and I felt like crap...it took 2 days on morphine for the back pain to go away and for the fever to go away.

After a follow up appointment with my doctor, I was put on another antibiotic and another appointment with a urologist. The urologist went right the point...I have kidney stone and not just a few, but about 7 or 8 and one of them 5.7mm in diameter and anything over 5mm is considered impassible. Are you kidding me?!?! This now means I have 2 options: surgery or stock radiation to break up the stone.

I've decided to hold off on both options for right now. The urologist wants me to collect my urine for 24 hours and then a blood test. The doc also put my on yet another antibiotic for the next 6 months and a follow appointment in 6 weeks.

WHAT A MESS!!! Since I'm on antibiotics, this weakens the effectiveness of the birth control pills I'm taking, so I've stopped them all together for right now. Now we need to be careful, we were not planning on anymore kids..two is our limit!

To top if off this whole mess has made me really tired and I have not been able to work on any sewing projects. I'm hoping to work up my strength and slowly get back into my sewing routine, so maybe within the next week I'll have something new to you all!

Flouncy Bag...

2010-09-24T21:55:00.000-04:00

...from One Yard Wonders!

I cannot believe how well this turned out.

I have to admit that I do NOT think this pattern is for beginners....the directions were not that clear, so on some parts I was wingin' it. Also it may of helped if I knew that there were corrections to the cutting measurements before hand, because I did not catch this until after cutting, the opening is kind of small....and since I used a dark lining it's hard to see down into the bag.

But here is what it looks like. The brown/gold ribbon has loops in it to hold items.

For those of you wondering..I used Michael Millers Fairy Frost. I have no clue what color, since it came in a scrap bundle from Fabric.com. For the outside I used a fabric purchased from Jo-Ann's, so I'm not sure what it is called or who makes it. But I also used this fabric for the backing of my Exotic Quilt.

The directions said nothing about using a stabilizer for the bottom, but I added some anyways...now the bottom is more sturdy!

My New Wrap

2010-09-23T23:14:00.000-04:00

Went to Jo-Ann's and picked up this...

Got home and looked at it right away and found this...

I read the directions on how to make it and realized I have all the materials for it...

And this is what mine looks like...

Not the greatest picture, but you get the idea. I really did not like the butterfly looking flowers, so I came up with something a little more simple and modern.

I can't wait to start cuddling up with this...since it's made with interlock knit, it's so soft!

Nature-ology Backing

2010-09-23T12:26:00.000-04:00

I really like the solid backing on quilts with a little of fabric from the front mixed in. But, for my Nature-ology quilt top I felt that there wasn't a lot of color on the front in order to qualify for a solid backing. So when I found some more fabric that I used on the front I decided to buy enough for the backing....I just threw a little bit of solid in.

So what do you think..

My favorite part of this quilt are the birds in it...

So hopefully I'll have some time to quilt this today, which means I'll be able to use my walking foot for the first time, that I've have for about 2 or 3 months now.

Diamonds are Pieced

2010-09-22T14:21:00.000-04:00

This is what I've been up to the past few days...

It took a little longer than I thought to get the top done, but that is due to pressing all the seems open.

Here's a few close ups...

The tricky part was trying to get the points to line up....some do and some don't...oh well, the quilt top is still pretty.

Now I just need to figure out what kind of back I'd like for this...maybe a solid with a few prints thrown in.

JRSQA Blocks 7 through 12

2010-09-20T14:51:00.000-04:00

I have to be honest here...I really do NOT like the fabric I chose for this quilt along...I was also unsure about the Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along too. But I said the heck with it...I'll do the quilt along and use fabric I don't about, so if I mess up at least I'm not out good fabric. This was a BAD idea, because I have no interest in completing the quilt now, but at least the blocks are done..

You've Got Mail...

2010-09-17T10:09:00.000-04:00

Well, I got mail. Look what I received in the mail yesterday...

These were made by locodowo for the Potholder Pass #4....and I LOVE THEM.

There is an:

Oven Mitt

Potholder

Pan Handle Holder

2 Coasters (or at least that's what I'm got the use them for)

Plus, the cute little card.

All of which was wrapped in tissue paper with green ribbon.

Thank You locodowo for EVERYTHING!

Orange & Aqua Quilt Top

2010-09-13T22:49:00.000-04:00

Well I was able to get the quilt top of the Orange & Aqua quilt done.

So, what do you think?? Okay, I may of left off one row, but I may of also mis-counted the number of blocks that I needed. I think it's still a good length though!

Progress: Orange, Aqua, & Diamonds

2010-09-12T23:07:00.000-04:00

All week I've been prepping these diamonds with borders, just finished them yesterday...now all I need to do is put them together.

And today I worked on those orange & aqua blocks...had several more blocks to put together before I could start sewing them into rows....hopefully I'll have time to work on this throughout the week to have a quilt top by the this weekend.

And whatever I do not get done this week, I'll be able to work on it Saturday, since the Fort Wayne MQG will be having an 'All Day Sew'..cannot wait for that!

Done...

2010-09-06T15:52:00.000-04:00

in a timely fashion!

It took only week to these 3 beauties finished....I'm very proud of myself for no starting something in the middle of these, but maybe the fact that I made them for my mom's friend had a little to do with it. I know I week is a long time, but I made 3 on top of working full-time and being a mother of two, and I wasn't home last Tuesday until very, very late.

So, here are the girls...

Aren't they cute!?!?!

Labor Day Weekend Sewing

2010-09-05T12:32:00.001-04:00

Boys are at their grandparents for the weekend...Andy's working...the dogs are napping....and I'm SEWING!

I'm working on this pile from these fabrics...

I still need to stuff the arms, legs, and tail...sew the body and parts together....add a few last minute flowers and touch, and then I'll be all done.

I didn't want to, but I did . . .

2010-08-30T23:14:00.000-04:00

. . . start I new project!

A lady that my mom works with would like me to make 3 cats for her daughters. I couldn't say 'no', especially since I get to make something for girls.

So, here are the fabrics that I;m going to work with:

I just love the flowers to the far left and the pink ones in the middle!

PP #4 - Done

2010-08-29T16:30:00.000-04:00

I'll be mailing these out first thing Monday morning.

Hope the person receiving these are happy with them.

Pot Holder Pass 4 - Progress

2010-08-22T13:26:00.003-04:00

I was just thinking to myself the other day that I really should get started on making the pot holders for round #4.

So, I sifted through my e-mails to find the one about what my partner like, etc. Here's her preference in fabrics: "Color Preferences - I love all colors as long as the fabrics are modern..."

Seriously, I couldn't have gotten a better partner, since whoever has me, got the same color preference.

Here is what I have so far...

Potholder #1:

Front

Back

Potholder #2:

Front

Back

I'm hoping to get them finished this week.

More Diamonds....

2010-08-22T13:12:00.003-04:00

...than I know what to do with...50 to be exact, not counting the the half-side, half-top/bottom, and corners pieces that I still need to cut.

I've been slowly working on cutting the blocks for my 'Summer Garden' quilt made of Kaffe Fassett, Jacob Phillips, and Brandon Mably fabrics....it takes a little longer, since each diamond is fussy-cut, which means that not a single diamond is the same.

Maybe my 'Summer Garden' will be done in time for next summer!

Orange & Aqua Blocks

2010-08-22T13:04:00.003-04:00

All week I've been working on my 'orange & aqua' blocks...so far I most of them done... think there are still about another 12 or so to make, but I'm going to hold off for right to see if I like the length & width...or do I want some sashing....here's a little peak....

If you have any thoughts let me know!

Orange & Aqua

2010-08-15T14:50:00.004-04:00

I purchased this fabric a while back and it all started the goldfish material, so i bought coordinating fabric to go with.

I knew that I wanted a pattern that is squares, so I borrowed the tutorial from Cluck, Cluck, SEW called The Orange Quilt. I drew up my own pattern to see what my quilt will look like..I'll be using my own measurements for this quilt..i want to center squares to be a little larger and the outside squares a little smaller.

For the Nieces

2010-08-04T22:16:00.003-04:00

Andy's older brother and his family will be here Saturday for a week or so and I thought I'd make something for my nieces.

Here is what is in the works...

I'm using a Melly & Me pattern called Claudine, who is a very cute cat.

New Sewing Room Wall

2010-08-04T21:51:00.003-04:00

Since I share my sewing room with the boys...half sewing room, half toy room. But there is one wall that you cannot do much with, besides hanging a picture or in my case a series of pictures. Well not so much pictures but swatches of fabric.

I the fabrics do not have to match with the the exception of having birds on it..so here is what I have so far.

7" hoop, spray painted an olive green color
Treetop Fancy by Tina Givens for Free Spirit

10" or 12" hoop (I do not remember) spray painted yellow
Monaco by Dena Designs for Free Spirit

Well these are the only that I have up so far, but more are to come.

Attack of the Dinos and Some Contagious Smiles

2010-07-27T22:57:00.003-04:00

While I was getting ready for work I took some time out to snap a few shots of my boys, plus LuLu, having fun with their new dinos.

LuLu, Alex, Dad, LJ, Buddha

Both dogs are puggles...half Pug and half Beagle

Alex attaching LuLu with his dino....she seems not to mind!

LJ attacking daddy with his dinosaur....ROOOARRR!

Look at those beautiful smiles and wild hair-do's! It's contagious!

D is for Double Dinos

2010-07-25T19:55:00.003-04:00

For the past week I have put the new quilt on hold to work on a little something for my boys....

Dilbert the Dino by Melly & Me

(LJ and Alex holding up their new dinos that I made for them)

I made two at the same time, which I think was better, but confusing at times...had to make sure I kept the fabrics separate.

I was able to finish them yesterday, while the boys were at their grandparents.....

The stuffed dino toys were their welcome home surprise.

Fabric Rainbow

2010-07-18T12:41:00.003-04:00

Kona Solids of 1 1/2" strips and 1 Moda Honeybun (which will be a surprise for now!) I'm going to use a postage stamp layout for this quilt...I'm really hoping that it turns out nice.

Starting from the left to right:

Aloe
Azure
Mustard
Olive
Peridot
Eggplant
Cerise
Blush Pink
Dusty Peach
Orange

Smocked Pillow

2010-07-13T19:35:00.003-04:00

For the last 3 days I've been working on another project out of the book "One Yard Wonder"!
This is what the project looked like last night before I went to bed, which took me about 4 hours to do. (Yeah, I didn't go to bed until about 12:30 am)

Here's a side view....and if you're wondering what I did, the direction said to smock the fabric and told you exactly how to do it, which was so simple!

Top view, with a fabric cover shank button, which I made myself, with the same fabric that I used for the main body of the project.

So...what do you think of the pillow I made....I'm thinking it's cool looking, considering I tried something new....ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! Now if only it went with my home decor....I'd try to sell it, but the buttons, I'm afraid, are not as secure as they could or should be, and I just cannot sell something that I'm not 100% satisfied with...but I'm happy to have it in my collection of "First Made"!

And the 'Wheels' are Racing...

2010-07-13T19:14:00.003-04:00

These are finally done...actually they've been done since Saturday, but have been unable to take photo's until today.

At first glance they look alike, but if you look closely they are only similar, but to really help Alex and LJ be able to tell which one is theirs, I made the backs different colors.

Alex already picked the light blue quilt, while at the same time LJ picked the brown quilt...thank goodness there were no agruments, which made it a lot easier on me!

More Market Bags

2010-07-05T16:12:00.002-04:00

I haven't been able to sew much in the past couple of weeks...I was able to get three quilts quilted, which I'll be working on the binding all this week for those. But I want to be able to show you something, so I whipped up these two market bags, from "One Yard Wonders"

Mmmm...I'm in love with this bag, I can't wait to start carrying it around for shopping.

Fabric Used for Outside:
Designer: Denyse Schmidt
Collection: Country Fair
Print Name: Daisy Bouquet in Porch
Weight: Home Decor (Cotton Canvas - 54")

Fabric Used for Lining:
Designer: Heather Bailey
Collection: Nicey Jane
Print Name: Hop Dot in Tangerine
Weight: Quilting (Cotton - 44/45")

I also used Pellon 931TD Fusible Mid-weight, which I fused to the outside fabric.

This bag is cute for a little girl, so I think I'll put it up until Christmas and give it to one of my nieces....maybe I'll put another handmade something inside as a surprise.

Fabric Used for Outside:
Designer:Robert Kaufman House Designer
Collection: Cool Cords
Print Name: Owls on White
Weight: ?? (Cotton)

Fabric Used for Lining:
Designer: Lecien House Designer
Collection: Color Basic
Print Name: Pin Dots in Pink
Weight: Quilting (Cotton - 44/45")

I also use Pellon 808 Craft Fuse, since the fabrics were so light-weight, this gave it more stability....maybe a little too much considering the bag stands up on it's own.

Note: All fabrics bought from Hawthorne Threads, but I can't seem to find the material for the Owl bag, which means they must likely do not carry it anymore.

Dad's Famous Chili

2010-06-19T18:03:00.002-04:00

I know it's summertime, but I have give a shoot out to my dad, who is not with us anymore.....I miss his good cookin'!

Ingredients:
1 can tomato sauce
1 can red or pinto beans
1 can refried beans
1 can black beans
1 can diced tomatoes (or fresh if you like)
1big or 2 small cans Rotile mild tomatoes
16 oz. V8 picante juice
1 jar mild salsa
1 to 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

Step 1:
Brown beef in skillet until done

Step 2:
Mix the beef and all other ingredients into the slow cooker on high for 4 hours or on low or 6 hours.

Fabric Therapy

2010-06-15T21:14:00.003-04:00

Fabric.com had a sale and a lot was just $3.95 per yard...I just could couldn't resist stocking my fabric stash with a half yard of these beauties....i think i bought about 120...and a 10% off total purchase may of played a little role...oh yeah, and you can't forget about the shipping, $35.00 or more equals free shipping! I figure that these gems will make nice "filler" fabric, like when you're making a quilt and you need just a few jewel tones or they'll come in handy for making stuffed dolls/animals or whatever you can think of.

A few Amy Butler, Michael Miller, Alexander Henry, Tanya Whelan (Dolce), Studio-e, Kaffe Fassett, Tina Givens, Moda....you get the point!

Welcome Eddy

2010-06-13T13:47:00.005-04:00

Eddy is Lizzy's best, but sometimes she can been jealous, since Eddy's favorite lovey is a mouse.

He even has his own carrying pocket for his mouse...it reminds me of a mommy kangaroo & her baby!

Eddy can never be separated
from his lovey since there is ribbon connecting them together.

Again, i used a pattern from the Stitch magazine.

Here is what is pictured in the magazine....i know mine aren't actually the same, but that's what makes them special!

Welcome Lizzy

2010-06-12T12:18:00.004-04:00

I wiped this up last night and finished it this morning.

Just LOVE the flower near the ear!

I'm so proud of myself for doing something non-quilty for a change and I think you'll be seeing more non-quilty projects!

Back View

I found this pattern in the magazine, "Stitch" - Spring 2009....I'm completely addicted to Stitch, many cute patterns and ideas.

For those wondering, who did i make this for....well, absolutely no one....this is a just because project.....i think i'll put her on the my sewing table as inspiration for the future!

My Weekend Project

2010-06-11T21:29:00.003-04:00

Here's a sneak peek of what I'm going to work on this weekend, since the kiddo's are staying Andy's parents until Sunday.

I hope it turns out okay......Sometimes I'm not good at coordinating fabrics together....don't get me wrong the materials do in fact coordinate, but is there enough contrast to them.

Siggy Swap #2 Blocks

2010-06-10T23:38:00.003-04:00

THEY ARE DONE!

I've been working on these since Monday...they'll be mailed out in the morning.

New Potholders and More!

2010-06-08T19:07:00.003-04:00

I received my potholders in the mail today from Ariane. She is the best....not only did she make me the two potholders, but she also made me a tea towel, and she included a fat quarter....I just love the apples!

She did a really great job....now I can throw out my old ones that I bought at Wal-Mart about 8 years ago....they're lookin' pretty gnarly, so i didn't take a picture of them!

Aren't they beautiful!?!

And a view of the backs....I just love the yellow one and how well it is lined up with the quilting.....GREAT JOB ARIANE!

Garage Sale Finds!

2010-06-06T13:46:00.003-04:00

I.LOVE.GARAGE.SALES!

but i only really like going to on the first day of the garage, because that is when people have all the good stuff.....usually by the end of the first day and the next day items are pretty much picked over.

so these are my great finds.....

Bird Plate: $0.25
Owl Plaque: $0.25...it's actually a pair and they are book ends....i figure a nice new coat of paint and they just might look really nice.
Thread: $1.00 per cone of 3000 yards

I got some other stuff as well.....some nice glass beer mugs with handles (5 for $0.10 each) and some books for the kids, 16 books since they were only $0.25 each.

So, altogether, I spent $10.00, which is about the same price for a cone of thread at the store....I did pretty good!

My Holiday Weekend Projects

2010-05-31T17:29:00.003-04:00

Project #1
Fabric Canvas Painting from Anna Marie Horner.

I started this project first because the tutorial said to coat the fabric with mod-pog after it is secured to the canvas frame. And as you can see I didn't pull the fabric tight enough, which will be something to keep in mind the next time. And while the mod-pog dried I worked on project #2.

I found a silhouette picture on istockphoto.com & used transfer paper to get the image into the fabric canvas.

I just really loved the birds and flowers in this image!

Project #2
Carry All Grocery Tote made from the book One Yard Wonders

Didn't really read the directions that well, because it said to use medium/heavy weight fabric. I used quilting weigh fabric and boy can I tell that I did. The bag is sturdy, but it's also very clumsy. So I'm going to let Alex carry this around to haul toys & his blanket to & from the babysitters....it would also work great when he goes to the library. Next time if I use quilting weight material, I'll make sure to use an interlining as well!

WIP for the Holiday Weekend

2010-05-29T12:10:00.004-04:00

Since this is a Memorial Weekend....I'll be spending time with ot so I thought.

Planned on taking the boys to see Grandma Wofford's, who we haven't seen for awhile. But instead Baby Landyn decided to make his debut today. Which means that Grandma Wofford will be at the hospital with my sister, Angela, Landyn's new mommy. We are just waiting to get the phone call to let us now when he is finally here.

So, since our plans our are somewhat ruined (in good way!), the boys will be staying the night at Grandma & Grandpa DiTommaso's. Which means I'll have the rest of the holiday weekend to myself to work on some non-quilty projects.

Project #1

An idea from Anna Marie Horner!

Project #2

I.LOVE.THIS.BOOK!
My idea is to make at least one project out of the book every month....there are a LOT of projects, which means it may take a few years. But the reason behind this is I buy books like this all time and I've only made several projects out of about 15 books. So what I'm hoping is to start getting my money's worth out of them. (I've already made one project....there are instructions for a potholder & oven mitt, so I used them for the Potholder Pass #3)

Nature - ology

2010-05-29T10:39:00.003-04:00

I've been working on this quilt through out the week....I able to get most of it done on Monday & Tuesday, since LJ was sick and I had to stay home with him.

I while back I purchased some pre-cuts by studio-e, which were 5" x 9 1/2", charm park, and jelly roll....I've been waiting fo just the right project to come along to use these little gems, but I have to be careful, since there are only 33 pieces in each pack.

For this project I used the 5" x 9 1/2" rectangles & some solids that I purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics. I've been inspired by all the "brick" layouts that I've been seeing around blogland...wish I would of saved the sites, but I was just clicking around here & clicking around there. So since I didn't have a picture of reference, just what I could remember in my head, I came up with a pattern of my own.

Whirly-Gigs

2010-05-29T10:08:00.003-04:00

....or also know as Dutch Windmills.

Last weekend I worked on this quilt top....I used a fat quarter bundle of Plume by Tula Pink for Moda,

Which I purchased from the Fat Quarter Shop.

This is the pattern I decided to use.....actually I got lucky on the pattern....I knew I wanted to use a whirly-gig pattern for this fabric, but was unsure about how to go about making it, since I wasn't sure about the measurements.....than a couple of weeks ago I bought "Quilt" #112 - June/July 2010. I bought the magazine for a different pattern....once at home and flipping through it, I started to squeal with delight when I came across Dutch Windmills.

Back for Wheels

2010-05-29T09:54:00.003-04:00

I finished the backs for the "Wheels" quilt tops.

Not sure which boy (Alex & LJ) will get what color, but I'm sure there will be a fight over it as always.....I asked Alex first which one he wanted and he kept changing his mind...so I think that after they are both completely finished, I'll wrap them up & not put a name on them & hand them to the boys to open up, which ever one they open will be their quilt.

Quilt Back #1

Quilt Back #2

Personally, I favorite back is the light blue one, so light & airy feeling, like it's meant for a nice spring or summer day.

The brown back reminds me of autumn & winter, snuggling up with it and a nice over-sized mug of hot cocoa.

Blogger's Quilt Festival - Spring 2010

2010-05-21T09:47:00.008-04:00

First of all WELCOME! I'm glad you stopped by.

This is my first quilt festival that I'm participating in and I'm very excited!

It was hard for me to decide which quilt to enter into the festival, so I decided to only go with quilt(s) that have only been worked on this year, which that helps elimate some of my enteries.

First up is the quilt that I made for my Aunt Fay...she was only person in the family that did not get a quilt made by my grandma (her mom). I worked on this quilt for about 3 or 4 months before I got all completed and just yesterday it was mailed out to her, making trek from Indiana to Arizona.

Nature's Notebook Quilt

Second is a quilt that I made out of charm squars and jelly roll strips that were purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics....I thought I was getting a really great deal, because the prices were so cheap, but it turned out the the JR only had about 20 strips and the same with the charm pack. On the flip side though I was able to find coordinating fabric for the backing.

Exotic Quilt

Third is the quilt that I made for one of my nephews....I made this quilt twice since I had two nephews on the way, but only took a photo of the first one.....hopefully I can get a picture of the second quilt with my nephew, Landyn, enjoying it....he due to make his feature debut tomorrow, May 22, 2010.

Cheap Talk Baby Quilt x's Two

Well, I hope you enjoyed the quilts that I entered. If you'd like to see more of what I've done please have a look around....you'll notice that to the right is a list of finished projects for the year 2009 and what I've gotten done so far for 2010.

And don't forget get to check out the other entries of the quilt festival.

Banana-Blueberry Bread

2010-05-19T19:58:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:
5 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed, very ripe bananas
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup heavy cream

Optional:
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup blueberries
Or experiment with other fruit and/or nuts

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray bottom only of 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. Please do not spray your pan if your cookware says not to. (I have that kind of cookware, Baker's Secret)

Step 2:
Beat butter in large bowl with a electric mixer set at medium speed until light and fluffy. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat well. Add egg, egg whites and vanilla; beat until well blended. Add mashed bananas, and beat on high speed for 30 seconds.

Step 3:
Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder in medium bowl. Add mixture to batter mixture alternating between the cream, and flour mixture; ending with flour mixture. Add any optional ingredient if you want. Please keep in mind that this recipe is all measured for one optional ingredient. I do not know how the recipe will turn out if you add multiples. (My favorite is blueberries!)

Step 4:
Pour batter evenly into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until browned and toothpick inserted near center comes out clean.

Step 5:
Cool bread in pan on wire rack for minutes. Remove bread from pan; cool completely on wire rack. If you are having problems with removing the loaf, let it cool a little longer and try again. Slice and serve with butter, jam, cream cheese, or whatever you may like.

Potholders

2010-05-18T22:10:00.003-04:00

The potholders for the Potholder Pass #3 are DONE!

Don't they look great! Especially since these are first potholders I've ever made!

Pot Holder #1 for Swap

2010-05-16T17:41:00.003-04:00

Look what I've been up to today while the boys have been good watching movies or playing with their bazillion toys.

I've made for the Pot Holder Pass #3.....i still need to put binding and some form of loop on the pot holder in order for it to hang. Right now it measures about 7" x 8 3/4"....made from a jelly roll of "Rouenneries" by French General for Moda

Block #'s 4, 5, and 6

2010-05-16T11:18:00.003-04:00

OK, so I've been a little behind on my blocks for the JRSQA, but three isn't that bad. Right?

I kept telling myself that I have other things that need to get finished first, which was totally true.

Block #4

But when I saw the layout for block 5, I froze....thinking what I have I gotten myself into....but after sitting down and reading the direction, that block turned out eazy peazy!

Block #5

And after sitting down this morning, I just started sewing away, I even caught up with block 6.

Block #6

Now, I have feeling that block 7 will be posted tomorrow morning, which mean if I want to stay up to date, than i need sew the block tomorrow, after the boys go to bed.

Garage Sale Bargin

2010-05-15T10:58:00.003-04:00

Look what I found at a garage sale several weeks ago for $3.00....

It's about less that 12" tall, which makes it prefect for kids....the top even lifts open to store stuff!

Well, I'm going to sand it down and redo it....I'm also going to recover the top with new fabric that's more pleasing to the eyes, because right now I think it's VERY UGLY!

Exotic Quilt

2010-05-15T10:53:00.002-04:00

I finished this quilt earlier this, but I'm just now able to sit down and tell you about it.

This is the first quilt top I put together this year, which means it's been sitting around my sewing room since January to be completed.

The Crafty Cupboard Giveaway

2010-05-14T09:15:00.004-04:00

Want to WIN this sweet table runner....

Head on over to http://craftycupboard.blogspot.com/. Not sure how long this giveaway will last, so you better hurry on over and leave your comments soon!

Direct link to Giveaway!

Nature's Notebook

2010-05-10T12:33:00.004-04:00

On Friday, I finally finished the quilt for my Aunt Fay....I've spent the rest of the weekend washing, clipping loose threads, taking photos, and spending time with the family....It was Mother's Day weekend. I hope everyone had a nice Mother's Day.

So I made sure I took some photos of the quilt before I ship it off to Arizona....

I hope she likes it!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T14:56:00.002-04:00

See what the boys made for me at the babysitters!

ABC Book

2010-05-04T21:11:00.004-04:00

I've been working on this ABC Book for about two months now! I'm using the "recipe" from the Moda Bake Shop by Angela Yosten.

For the past week my sewing machine has been humming. I've quilted two quilts, they just need binding now. And just a few minutes ago I finished the pages for the ABC Book...just need a binding ring now (I've been unable to find one so far, so I might have to compromise).

Needing A Vacation......

2010-04-28T17:28:00.004-04:00

......from blog land!

I have a lot a things to get finished before Mother's Day. I'm also trying to plan our first meeting for the Fort Wayne Modern Quilt Guild.....if you have any thoughts let me know.

Don't worry, I'll be checking my e-mail.

OK, I hope to have some new finished projects to show you when I get back!

Block #8 of PWSQA

2010-04-27T07:13:00.003-04:00

For Block #8 we were to chose our pinwheel design.....I had a hard time with this one.....so i picked one of my favorites and arranged the blocks in a different order......Block #3 re-arranged

Block 1 of 2

Block 2 of 2

Block #2 of PWSQA - Redo

2010-04-27T07:08:00.003-04:00

I didn't like one of my blocks because there was not enough contrast in the colors....this block looks much, much better.

Red Play-Doh

2010-04-25T19:06:00.002-04:00

The boys got to play with Play-Doh after their nap....and during clean up:

Me: OK Boys! Time to clean up.
Jon: Nooooo!
Me: Yesssss! Ok, where is the rest of the red play-doh?
Jon: I don no
Alex: Jon eat it.
Me: Jon, did you eat the red play-doh?
Jon: NO!
Alex: Yes you did JON!
Me: Jon, did you eat the red play-doh??
Jon: Yea!

So, needless to say, we are missing about 2 ounces of red play-doh. I've looked all over the house for and cannot find any traces of it....and red sticks out like a sore thumb....guess we'll have to see what he poops out in the next couple of days.

Block #7 - PWSQA

2010-04-24T15:56:00.003-04:00

Finally finished block #7 of the Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along from Rachel of p.s. i quilt.

Block 1of 2

Block 2 of 2

I changed it up a little bit....the white borders are suppose to the colored fabric, but I didn't want the outside border being white, since the sashing is white.

Make Life Notebook Cover

2010-04-23T10:08:00.004-04:00

Meghan of Thrifty Quilt er has made a cute notebook cover out of the Make Life layer cake that she won from the giveaway i had a while back.

Great job Meghan!

I was so excited to see what she had made that I had to do a shout out!

Well back to the sewing room...finishing the quilt for my aunt.....i want it done before Mother's Day....so in order for this happen I put have put off finishing the quilts for Alex & Jon

Spring to Finish 2010

2010-04-20T19:24:00.009-04:00

Need a little extra *oomph* to get you going on all those half finished projects???
Then check out Tallgrass Prairie Studio.

You have until May 31, 2010 to finsh as many projects as possible....but don't rush through them, take your time and do it right the first time o make it look nice.
I can't tell you how many time I rush through a project just so I can get it done and then regret it because it looks like crap, which makes me have to redo it.....if I have to look at it or will be giving it to someone, it better look nice!

My commitment list to get finished:
~~1. Aunt Fays Quilt~~
2. Alex's Quilt
3. LJ's Quilt
4. Sultry Quilt
~~5. Exotic Quilt~~

~~6. ABC Book~~

7. Pot Holder Pass
8. Spring Clean the Carpets (the carpets only get shampooed twice a year...spring & late november)

Added Items:
~~8. Block #7 (Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along)~~

~~9. Block #8 (Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along)~~

10. Sashing (Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along)
11. Finishing (Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along)

12. Block #4 (Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along)
13. Block #5 (Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along)
14. Block #6 (Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along)

#15 Any other blocks that need to be done for the Jelly Roll Sample Quilt Along.

One for Alex & One for Jon

2010-04-17T16:57:00.003-04:00

The boys new matching quilt tops...

One for Alex

And other for Jon

still working on the backs.

These quilt tops were so easy to make, that I made both of them in about a weeks time......and since I just shipped the boys to Grandma's & Grandpa's for the night, hopefully I get the backs made and have them basted for quilting this week.

Different Winner of Giveaway

2010-04-12T10:41:00.005-04:00

OK, I sent an e-mail and posted the winner of the Make Life layer cake and I got no responses.

Bad news, the original person didn't win...

Good news, Meghan of Thrifty Quilter is the new winner....(I sent you an e-mail)

Meghan said,
"My Nana gave me a sewing kit when I was little. My version of "sewing" was just attaching two fabric scraps together for no reason. I think my first real project was probably a purse."

The same rules apply to you as well. You have until Saturday, April 17, 2010 to contact me with your information. If I do not here from you, I'll have to pick a new winner, it's only fair.

Again.....Thank you to everyone who stopped by and left a comment.

Again.......for those who are interested to participate in the Pay it Forward (or Sew it Forward, as I like to call it)!

The "Wheels" on the bus go......

2010-04-10T15:50:00.004-04:00

I thought it was time to make my boys new quilts. So I bought "Wheels" by My Minds Eye for Riley Blake......I can't get enough of it right now....it's so super cute for boys!

I've got the rows sewn together for both quilts, but I've decided to add some solids as well, so the project in on hold until a can find the right color of solids that I want......i'm thinking some sky blue & milk chocolate brown.....I'll be using the solids for the back, which will be how the boys will be able to tell which quilt is his.

WIP Overhaul

2010-04-10T15:40:00.004-04:00

Remember when I show you all this quilt top and said I'm not done with.
Well this is a sneaky peaky at what I'm up to.....

While the boys were taking their nap, I finished the top piece & the bottom.....i'll have to wait until they got to bed before I baste it......i use basting spray with does not smell pretty.....the last thing i need to do is be killing off their brain cells at 4 & 2 years old.

Jandi in Stitches

2010-04-08T09:12:00.005-04:00

Jandi is have a great giveaway of a charm pack: Fruitcake by BasicGray for Moda

You have until April 16, 2010 to enter......head on over and check it out!

Fort Wayne Modern Quilt Guild

2010-04-07T23:36:00.003-04:00

Did you notice the new things happening on my blog side bars.

That right, there is an interest to start a local Modern Quilt Guild in the Fort Wayne, IN area.

I've been thinking about it for sometime, but have been putting it off. I thought that maybe I should wait until I get some more experience.

After some thinking, I went for it and started our web page....

http://fortwaynemqg.ning.com/

So for those of you have some interest, please hop on over and check it out.....I'd love to know what think, don't be shy about giving me your input.

Block #3 - JRSQA

2010-04-06T12:53:00.002-04:00

Block #3 for the Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along

Block # 6 - Pinwheel Quilt Along

2010-04-05T23:52:00.004-04:00

This block was a lot easier than what I thought it was going to be, but than again, all the blocks are!

Block #1 of 2

Block #2 of 2

Block #5 - Pinwheel Quilt Along

2010-04-05T23:48:00.003-04:00

This block was a blast to make....I love how it turned out!

Block #1 of 2

Block #2 of 2

Easter Baskets

2010-04-05T23:41:00.004-04:00

We didn't do a whole lot for Easter....Andy had to work on Sunday. So, we had Easter dinner with his parents on Saturday, which left Sunday to go to Andy's grandparents (I went with Andy's mom). The boys spent to whole weekend at Andy's parents,so they didn't get to hunt for their baskets....I made a special delivery on Sunday.....

{look at the baskets...I made them!}

And the Winner is......

2010-04-03T00:35:00.002-04:00

Carol T. of Pleasant Quilter said,

"I now follow your blog. My favorite shops are fatquartershop and piece n quilt, I don't really have any local shops that are very close to me. I remember sewing a pillow case for my sister when I was in high school. I made 2 for her out of dinosaur material and she had them for a very long time."

Carol, I sent you an e-mail asking for your address.
If I do not here from you by Saturday, April 10, 2010, I'll have to pick a new winner, it's only fair.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and left a comment.

I read everyone's comments & stopped by everyone's blog (if public). I love to see what people are up, what projects they come with, and how they use their fabric choice(s).

And for those who are interested to participate in the Pay it Forward (or Sew it Forward, as I like to call it)!

Meadowsweet Quilt Top

2010-03-29T19:28:00.003-04:00

This quilt was easy peasy, I put it together over the weekend.....I have to admit though, I've had all the fabric cut for some time now, waiting for the right moment to sew it together. I used two fat quarters of Meadowsweet by Sandi Henderson for Michael Miller Fabrics: 1 Peach & 1 Pear

And, I also have a whole lot of these little guys left over too!.....I'm not what I want to do with them yet....I'm thinking of a either on larger quilt or two smaller quilts....haven't decided yet....maybe I'll put more thought into another time.
Unless you have any thoughts?!?!

One Year & Giveaway

2010-03-26T09:02:00.008-04:00

***Comments CLOSED: 214 Comments***

Can you believe it?!?! I've been quilting/sewing for a year now.

The very first quilt that I made was for my oldest son Alex, who is now 4 years old (and he loves it...carries the quilt everywhere with him). I have to admit that the quilt isn't the best looking, a lot of the rows do not line up properly, but again, my first quilt. And the first technique that I learned was the "half square triangle" that Rachel (p.s. i quilt) taught all of us for the Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along.

Another reason that the quilt may not look as great, is the fact that I didn't have a cutting mat or rotary cutter! That's right people....I used a good ol' yard stick and a pencil to measure out & cut my material, which by the way I do NOT recommend, and a pair of old scissors that we use for everyday cutting in the house, which i also do not recommend. I have to say I have come a long way...when you are going to sew on a regular basis, investing in some good tools is worth it, even if you have to invest in one thing at a time.

As you all can see I have come a long way in just a years time. I've finished 15 quilts and 7 projects. I also have 4 quilt tops done and numerous other projects started.

So, in honor of my one year quilting/sewing quest, I have decided to do a little giveaway. I thought you might like the sound of that.
How about a layer cake of Make Life by Sweetwater for Moda

Giveaway Details:
Tell me what your first sewing project ever was (outside of home ec. class in high school) & when your journey began.

Second chance to enter: Follow my blog, if you already do, just remind me.

Third chance to enter: Blog about my giveaway on your blog.

Fourth chance to enter: Tell me about your favorite fabric shop & why.....can be online or local. (I like several different shops [see side bar] for different reasons....low prices, free shipping, great selections.)

So, the breakdown:

Comment #1 - Leave a comment about first sewing project

Comment #2 - Follow my blog

Comment #3 - Blog about my giveaway

Comment #4 - Leave a comment about fave fabric shop

You have until Friday, April 2, 2010 Midnight Eastern time to leave your comments. A winner will be chosen on Saturday, April 3, 2010.

Ready.......Set......Let the comments begin!!

***Comments CLOSED: 214 Comments***

Block #4 - Pinwheel Quilt Along

2010-03-24T18:48:00.003-04:00

ok ok ok...i'm about a week behind for this block, but I had another obligation to get done first....like the quilt for my "soon-to-be-born" nephew, Landon.

This pinwheel has got tobe the easiest so far....I've learned to put pinwheels, like this one, together a different way, and I have to say I this way the best!

For really simple instructions click here!

Block Two - JRSQA

2010-03-24T18:43:00.002-04:00

It took me a little longer than what I thought to get this block done, but once I sat done and actually started working on it, it was easy peazy!

For instructions click here!

Sew It Forward!

2010-03-23T13:50:00.011-04:00

Do you remember when I posted this!

I only had two people sign up...BUMMER! One of which still needs to be full-filled by the other person, and one to be full-filled by me by November 2010 (so I have a while for the second one).

Well, it's March again and I thought I'd give this another try, but I'm teaking it little bit from 5 (five) to 3 (three) people this year!

Here is peak at what I've made in the past for someone!

The first 3 (three) people to respond to this post will get something made by yours truly!! I get to chose what it is, and make it just for YOU! However, this offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

I make no guarantees that you will like what I make! (Although I'm hoping you do!)
What i create will be just for you
It will be done within 1 (one) year of your responded date (the date you left the comment)
You have no clue what it is going to be. I enjoy crafts, sewing, photography, and even cooking! (don't worry! I won't send food in the mail.)

There is one little catch, you must re-post this on YOUR blog, facebook, myspace, or whatever you use to contact the masses and make the same offer to the first 3 (three) people who respond to you, thereby continuing the fun! (Keep it local if you would like, however you want to do it is fine.)

The first 3 (three) people to leave a comment telling me they will be posting this on their blog (or whatever you are using) will win a special something made by me! Be sure to post a picture of what your handmade prize is when you get it!

This offier expires on December 31, 2010 or until 3 (three) people sign up!

Good Luck and Let the Race Begin!

Nephew #5's Quilt

2010-03-23T13:36:00.004-04:00

OK......I screwed up big time!

I forgot to take pictures of the quilt before I wrapped it up to give to my sister at her baby shower.

I'm sure someone was taking pictures that I can use to show you all. Or maybe I'll just wait until the baby is born and get birds with one stone.

But if it make you feel any better that quilt was super cute! I was made with the same material & pattern as Nephew #4's, the only difference was the backing. Nephew #4 was orange/red for the backing and this one was lines green & teal.

This also explains why I haven't posted anything...I've been busy working on this quilt in order to get it finished for the baby shower.

Now it's time to ctach up on the quilt-alongs and the quilt for aunt fay.

Block #3 for the Pinwheel Quilt Along

2010-03-13T21:23:00.003-05:00

It took me a while to get in the mood to put these blocks together, but since the kids are staying the weekend with Grandma & Grandpa, I've all day to myself (Andy's working from 8-8).

Oh, you noticed it too! GREEN for St. Patty's Day, which is just around the corner. I didn't think about the colors when selecting them, until the whole block was finished and I was ironing it out.

Yep, more green!...guess I really had St. Patty's Day on the mind subconsciously.

Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along - Block #1

2010-03-13T21:16:00.002-05:00

I've had this block done for about a week and I just kept forgetting to take a picture of it.

I'm using Treasure's of the Southwest for Moda....had the jelly roll sitting around now for quite sometime and wasn't sure what I wanted to use it for....I also wasn't sure if I was going to even do this quilt along....so since I wasn't sure about either, well you know the rest as by the picture.

Natures Notebook Quilt.....

2010-03-11T17:56:00.002-05:00

....it's coming along quite well....still need to add two borders, which will make the quilt top look more complete

I'm hoping to have to the top finish by the end of this weekend.

Sneak Peak of Aunt Fay's Quilt

2010-03-06T19:25:00.006-05:00

So far I have Units A & B, & C done...now I can put them together to make the blocks.

Unit B on the left and Unit C on the right. To see Unit A click here.

This quilt is slowly, but surely coming together. It's hard to finish when I have about 6 projects going at once.

What I'm Working On...

2010-03-01T19:37:00.007-05:00

I have piles of fabric laying all over my quilting area, which makes it hard to switch back and forth from projects. And since I do NOT have proper storage, I grabbed some 1 gallon baggies from the kitchen....6 baggies to be exact!

Here are the lines of fabric that I'm using:
#1 - Sanrotini by Lila Tueller for Moda
#2 - Nature's Notebook by April Cornell for Moda
#3 - Treasures of the Southwest by J. Michelle Watts for Moda
#4 - Meadowsweet by Sandi Henderson for Michael Miller
#5 - Riviera by Connecting Threads.com
#6 - Cheep Talk by Connecting Threads.com

The featured quilt in the book is Jitterbug, which I'm using for one of the quilt projects....and the book is "Layer Cake, Jelly Roll, and Charm Quilts" by Pam & Nicky Lintott. This is one of my favorite quilt books by far!

...and this is what I'm NOT working on....clean up the toy that is shared with my sewing room.....there's nothing like walking on my tip-toes to get from one point to the other in that room.....almost like land mines, except with lego blocks & miniature animals & dinosaurs.

Alex's wooden block tower with FP animals on top...he was so proud of this, that was until LJ knocked it over....why?... because he's 2 and that's his job!

LJ reading his Sesame Street sing-along book, which has a mini cd player with plastic discs that came with, but who knows where those are now...I'm sure they're somewhere in that mess of a room