Quilt Winners

The top winners are posted on the American Quilter's Society Quilt Show Contest for 2006. Amy posted a note on her blog that the photos were online. The top picks are just beautiful!! I love the Feathered Beauties and Ricky Tims entered one of his quilts which won the Bernina Machine Workmanship award!

If you haven't visited Ricky Tims website, you should!! He has many of his beautiful quilts posted along with his music, upcoming gallery shows and info on his workshops and seminars!

Plans for Today

Several things are floating around in my head that I need to do today! First, I have blocks to cut and mark for my Beyond the Color Purple quilt class on Monday. I will also need to fuse wonder-under on to several fabrics for applique pieces. This is the first Monday of the month, so we are starting a new block!

Then I have some website updating to do!! I have some new products to put online and some new project photos too! I'll try to show some of those projects here when I get them uploaded!

Time to Reorganize

The last two days I have spent most of my time sorting and rearranging my sewing supplies and fabric. I have been using my younger sister's room since she has been away at college this semester. Now she is coming home for the summer and will need her room back.

I was finally able to get everything into another room! It will be a little tight for the next few months, but I will survive. When she goes back to school in the fall, I can spread out again!! :)

Quick Mitered Corners

Need a quick refresher course for mitered corners? Once glance at this and I'm past the first corner and onto the next!

"Rule" on Clipping Jump Threads

Do you ever wonder what the "rule" is for clipping jump threads on embroidery designs? Here are a few tips I recommend that you do:

Clip thread jumps close to the stitching on the TOP of your embroidery design. Clip those jump threads after each color change. This will keep your design neater so the jump threads are not covered with more stitches.

If you have a jump stitch of bobbin thread on the BACK that is big enough in which to catch a finger or fingernail, cut it in half. If you can’t catch a finger or other item, the jump should remain in-tact. DO NOT cut close to the stitching. A ¼ inch or more of bobbin thread should always remain. This alleviates any threat of cutting out those valuable lock stitches.

Happy clipping!

Quilt Labels

Whether it is a full sized quilt, lap quilt or wall hanging, quilt labels are a must!! Future generations will try to track down who made these quilts. As quilters, we go through old quilts passed down to us and wonder who made it when a signature is not on the back. So label it!

I usually machine embroider the quilt name, my name, the date, who it is for and a coordinating design if possible on a piece of fabric. I then cut it down to the size I need. If I get this completed before the quilt is layered together and quilted, I attach it using a decorative stitch. If the quilt is completed, I turn the raw edges under and hand tack it on the back where I want it.

I have on occasion when I am running out of time and it is a small project, just used fabric pens and written the data on a corner on the back. This should be done even if you attach a separate label. That way if the label gets torn off or the quilt gets stolen and someone tries to claim your work, the true author's name will still be there. You can't erase ink! Write the info in ink under the attached label and it won't show that you have the same info twice!

I thought this label information was helpful from McCall's Quilting. Using freezer paper makes it much easier to trace and cut a fun label design!

Always identify your quilts. Attach a label that tells who, when, where, and any other pertinent information you may want to add.
Reduce or enlarge the design, using a copy machine, to make any size label.
Trace motif onto fabric of your choice using a permanent, waterproof pen. Trace outside line using a washable marking pencil of your choice.
Cut fabric 1/4" away from traced line for seam allowance.
Tip: Cut a piece of freezer paper larger than the label. Press paper, using a dry iron, to the wrong side of the fabric, shiny side against fabric. Trace the design. The paper will help to make the process of tracing the lines easier. After design has been traced, remove the paper.

Things About Me

I have been tagged by Dot at her blog, Rantala Rags, to say 6 weird or unusual things about me. This took a little thought...:-)

1. I cannot sleep without a blanket covering me. It can't just be a sheet; it must be at least one blanket! I leave my electric blanket on all year long; so I sleep under s sheet, electric blanket and comforter plus my cat who is always beside me!! :-)

2. After teaching a full day of sewing class and getting home at 10 or 11 pm, I can't just go to bed. I have to read the daily paper, check the mail and read for a while before getting to sleep.

3. Diet Mountain Dew pop is a daily nutrient. I must have a serving each day! It's the caffeine that keeps me going!! :-)

4. I tend to bite my lip when reading...especially when I am getting to the "really good" part!

5. When sewing at the machine or serger, I usually sew with my left leg tucked underneath me. This causes me to be a little higher and keeps my foot warm also! :-)

6. I clip my thread tails after every seam; it drives me nuts to have thread tails dangling.

I will tag:

Linda
Amy

Embroidery Tip from Great Notions

I'm on so many email mailing lists for embroidery, sewing and quilting; I can hardly keep track of all the emails I receive! But I did find this embroidery tip from Great Notions very unique! I've used two colors of thread through the needle before and it enhances the design!!

You may have seen the twisted threads that give a combination of two colors of
thread blended together. You can create your own version of twist thread by
using two colors threaded through the same needle.

Place a needle with a large eye in your machine. Pass the two selected thread colors through the needle. You may keep the threads closer together by passing both through a small section of drinking straw placed in the thread path.

This technique is very pleasing on many types of designs. For example, place two
shades of green through the needle for lifelike foliage. Use two shades such as
gray for a realistic building. Brown and tan threaded together can make animals
with a more natural appearance.

Computer Issues Resolved, I Think...

My computer is back in working order. I was able to figure out a work around for accessing my files!! Thankfully all my files were there and I was able to copy them into a new user profile. I'm still in the dark as to what caused this to happen; it's just one of things that can't be explained. I needed to go in to all my programs and reset my personal settings, but I think I am back in business!! :-)

Computer Issues

I panicked last night!! I had created another user on my computer and somehow when I restarted my computer, it logged in with the new user and eliminated the original user! As I hurriedly looked in the my documents folder where all my important documents are filed, it was EMPTY!!! I think at that moment I just stopped breathing...

As I looked around some more, I saw my original user's files, but am still unable to access that user. So instead of spending my time this morning sewing or working on my website, I am trying to gain access to all my files.

At least I know they are still there, but I have to figure out how to gain access to use them again. So back to computer files again...right now I am restoring my hard drive to a previous date and will see if this takes care of the problem. If not, I'm not sure what avenue to pursue.

This was just another reminder that I need to backup my file more frequently. I know I should, but it takes time and it is something I just put off doing. If my hard drive would crash or I would lose a major part of my files, I would be in serious trouble!! After I get this problem taken care of, I am going to backup everything I have TODAY!! :-)

My Projects Accomplished

I told myself today would be the day to get several sewing projects done for some people whom I sew for. To do that I knew I MUST force myself to stay OFF the computer. A little computer time in the morning to check email, blog and daily web checks and then to the sewing machine.

What was on my list of projects: a sheer jacket to cut out, sew & finish; a lace jacket to line with satin; a pair of jeans to mend. I was able to complete everything I wanted to today!! Multi-tasking as usual, I even starting embroidering a couple of lace swans on my other machine. Then I could still sew as my other machine is stitching!!

The swans have a multitude of stitches in the designs. I am still stitching the wings and will still be stitching tomorrow. I'm anxious to see what the finished 3D swan will look like!! :-)

Cute Applique Snowman

Look at this cute applique snowman that Linda has created over at Cats & Quilts!! I love the background with its falling snowflakes. The buttons on the border keep the design continuing to the very end of the quilt!

Tassels & Trims

Take a look at this beautiful tassels and trims quilt project from Bernina's website. It gives you complete directions for embroidery, stitching gridwork, completing the center block, creating borders and finishing the entire quilt.

The embroidery designs are from the special collection cd from Tassels & Trims by Louisa Meyer.

Fabric Covers Created!!

I recently wrote this article on keeping your fabric collection organized and clean. I decided I need to apply those guidelines to my own sewing room! I already have most of my fabric organized, but I did have to dig out a few pieces out from under the bed.....

I have four 6' bookcases in my sewing room that hold many of my supplies. Two are filled with cotton solids and prints organized by color. The other two hold my notebooks, catalogs, quilting books and temporary projects I am working on.

Because they are just bookcases, the front is open and exposed to the sun and dust. Temporarily I have been covering them with a couple sheets to keep the contents clean and out of direct sunlight. When I needed something I would have to crawl back behind the sheet to find it. On occasion I would have to remove the sheet to be able to see what I needed. This became a real hassle because I would always have to climb up on a chair to get the sheet back on. One of the great perks of being short!! :-)

Yesterday I was able to find time to create the fabric panels for a roman shade for each bookcase. This will allow me to leave the shades down when I am not using the supplies inside. I can raise them at any time to find what I need.

I just need to have my dad cut off dowel rods to fit the bookcase width and then I can insert them into my rod pockets on the back of the shades. Then I will sew on plastic rings on the lining, run cording through the rings up to the top and the cord will dangle on the side so I can raise and lower it! In theory this should all work; but there may be a glitch at the top of the shade in bringing the cording to the side. I'm not quite sure how that will all work together until I get it up. Then I can figure out how to make it work! So far everything has gone as I planned!

I'll post some photos when they are completed!

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale

If you ever get the opportunity to attend some of the Mennonite Relief Sale Auctions, please go! There are quilts in hundreds of sizes, wall hangings and various other crafts and handmade items just ready for you to view and gain ideas!!

If you are unable to go, did you know you can view the quilts and other items online and see what price they brought? It's amazing to see the many color combinations, intricate design patterns and creative touches each one contains!

Here is one that I loved!!

This quilt is of interest to me because my Grandmother has made several quilts in the Bargello pattern! The light to dark variation of blues is beautifully displayed! This one is made by ladies from the Hands of Friendship in Whitewater, Kansas and is machine pieced and hand quilted. This sold for $2000. See the history of the "Bargello" quilt pattern; it was originally designed by the direction of hand stitches.

See many other full size quilts, baby quilts and even quilt racks at the Kansas website! Definitely worth your time to see the wonderful projects completed!

See where the Mennonite Relief Sale is located near you! Several sales are upcoming in May and June!

Purses & Bags Galore!!

Here are a few photos as promised from embroidery club projects I have completed!

Chocolate is essential; don't be without it!! Take this bag with you and you won't be caught without it!! I stitched beaded fringe between the two fabric colors. The handles are shirred fabric onto cording which gives it a different look!

This 'duck with pluck' is adorable stitched on anything!! Here's what the saying says: "Honey, we've still got it! We just can't remember where we put it!" Maybe I'll give this to my mother for Mother's Day! :-) You can see some more of 'Mitzi the Duck with Pluck here.

My favorite...this dainty little pink purse will not hold much, but is as cute as it can be!! Flowers and leaves are embroidered on organza, layered together and stitched on with beaded centers. The beaded handle and beaded top fringe add to the elegant look! This would be perfect for prom or any wedding event!!

Click here to see more of my purses and bags...

Fun Purses and Bags

Today is our monthly embroidery club meeting here in southwest Kansas. I am teaching on how to create fun purses and bags embellished with embroidery, fuzzy fringe and beaded trims.

I had a ton of fun trying some new ideas for these bags! Some have colored fuzzy feathered trim, dangling crystal beads, hand beaded handles and one even involves chocolate!! Now how could ANYONE go wrong with a chocolate handbag?? Perhaps someone who doesn't care for chocolate??

Stay tuned!! I'll post some photos tomorrow...

Little Bath Tea Bags

Need a quick gift idea or something just for you? Look at these nifty little bath tea bags. Create an instant spa with a little organza, ribbon and bath scents and salts!

Cut the the outside square a little larger and embroider a bath design on it. Trim it down to 6" square and continue to put the bag together! Or personalize with a name or the name of the scent with corresponding flower! Ideas are endless!!

Sorting Through Photos

I decided today was the day I needed to sort through and organize a pile of photos!!! I ran across some finished project photos I had completed last year and totally forgot about! It was fun remembering how I did each one and maybe not so fun as I remembered the time I spent completing some of them. Here's a few I had to share! These pics were taken before I had a digital camera, so the picture is not as clear as I would like, but enjoy anyway!! :-) What would we do without technology??!!

This is a chef quilt I designed and stitched for someone as a Christmas gift. This should have taken me a few weeks to do with all the stitching and embroidery involved, but since I started it on December 16th, I finished it in 4 days (& nights :-))!!

A lady brought me 4 chef shirts and 1 pair of black and white checkered pants which I was supposed to make a full size quilt! So I added several blocks with chef embroidery designs, chef print fabric, catchy menu sayings in various shapes and chili pepper fabric with hot & spicy embroidery designs! It was fun to create; yes, even when it was 1 am!! See close-up photos here.

Hide your vacuum sweeper with a farm lady wearing a denim dress and print apron! Add a straw hat, some brown yarn for hair, buttons for eyes and draw a mouth and nose and she is complete. This took a lot of time but it was an interesting break from my normal sewing that I do. See more details here.

These snowmen are paper pieced for a wintry wall hanging. I stitched this for my aunt over a year ago. There even is a birdhouse with embroidered bluebirds fluttering above! See a close-up here.

Stitch Recipes

Have you ever tried stitching some of Bernina's stitch recipes? Stitch recipes are a great way to use your decorative stitches on your machine. Learn how to change size, mirror image, use the securing function and incorporate 4-16 directional stitching! You can come up with some amazing combinations!!
Dazzling Denim by Jill Danklefsen is a fun stitch combination for the hem of denim jeans or a denim jacket! Need something a little simpler? Look at Love is in the Air 2 also by Jill Danklefsen. These will give you ideas to stitch your own decoratives!!

Online Shopping Now Available!!

It's finally online and ready to use! After many keystokes, mouse clicks and mind boggling computer files, my online store is up and running.

Visit my online store for fun fabrics, quilting notions, books and patterns galore!! Even see some different colored potato bags which make great and unique gifts. Sign up to receive my FREE email newsletter and receive a coupon to use on your first order!

New Sewing Gallery

Take a peek at my NEW online sewing gallery pages. I've uploaded many projects with lots of clear photos. Hopefully you can gain some ideas for your own projects!!

Straightening the Fabric Grain

Do you ever find it difficult to straighten the grain of your fabric before pinning on your pattern pieces? It can be tough to get your fabric to lay flat and straight.

Look at this article from Home Sewing Association. There are some valuable tips for successful fabric grainline.

Cute New Noah's Ark Designs

Oklahoma Embroidery (OESD), a major machine embroidery design company has created a new set of designs with a Noah's Ark theme! These cute little designs of zebras, lions, pandas, monkeys and the classic ark are just begging to be stitched on any child's t-shirt, receiving blanket or quilt. These designs are fantastic quality with lots of shading and dimention!

Thread Quality??

With so many kinds and brands of threads available for sewing and embroidery it is hard to know which one is the best! Is there one that breaks less often and stitches nicer? Are the more expensive threads really worth paying the extra compared to the less expensive spools?
Yes, there is a major difference in threads. Some brands of threads are made cheaper and therefore are a weaker thread, break more frequently and leave lint in your sewing machine which causes further problems.

Don't assume that all threads are the same. Whether you are quilting, embroidering or just plain sewing, purchase good quality threads!! After you have spent a lot of time and effort into your project, you want it to hold up for years to come and look the best that it can! Not only does the thread affect your project, but also your sewing machine. Spending a little more on thread is definitely worth the extra money to keep your prized sewing machine running in tip-top shape!

See samples of thread brands magnified here. I found the difference in thread brands incredible! Different brands of thread for sewing, quilting, serging and embroidery are magnified to show the loose fibers which wreck havoc in your fabric and machine!

I have used Coats & Clarks All Purpose thread for most of my basic sewing, especially garments. I may try using an alternate brand after seeing the loose fibers it contains! For quilting, I like to use Mettler 100% cotton; it seems to be wound tight with very few loose fibers as shown. For embroidery I use Sulky or Isacord.

The lesson learned: Purchase good quality thread; it is most certainly worth it!!

Save "Simply Quilts"

HDTV will discontinue Alex Anderson's "Simply Quilts" in 2006 unless enough quilters request that the program continue to air! Let's try to keep this valuable source of information!! Visit P & B Textiles for information on writing HDTV.

Late Night

My eyelids are drooping; I can't do anymore computer work tonight. It's almost 11:30 pm; time to quit and get to bed!

I'm Finally Making Progress

I have been working on adding a shopping cart for my website for the past several weeks. My mind has been filled with various cart features and deciding which one would be the best. Finally I decided on one, changed some features and added some products only to find out that in all my customizing, I had turned all my text white on a pale yellow background!!! Well, of course that would not work!

So after I finally spent days (yes, full 10-12 hr days!), trying to correct this problem, I decided to start with a fresh copy. So now I have reinstalled, recustomized (very carefully!!) and am now in the process of adding products!!

So I think I can now stop living, breathing and dreaming about HTML code, CSS stylesheets and FTP files! What a process, but now I know so much more than I did before!!

I have literally been glued to the computer for the last two weeks, leaving only to teach a few classes. Hopefully I can become a little less attached to my computer now, because my sewing projects are piling up! ☺

Baked Potato Bag Directions

Some people have asked how my potato bag works and the directions for using it. Here are the directions:

Baked Potato Bag

The best baked potato that you have ever eaten!

Wash and dry your potatoes.

Do NOT prick potatoes.

Wrap potatoes in a paper towel and place in the bag.

Microwave 4-8 minutes; time will vary.

When serving, do not cut with a knife.

Simply use a fork.

The potatoes will be very fluffy!

Let the bag air dry.

Enjoy your yummy baked potatoes!

I have even rinsed my potatoes and stuck them in the bag without a paper towel and it works very well. You can wash and dry the bag as needed. The cotton fabric and batting that it is made out of creates a heated pocket for the potato to bake.

Rail Fence Wall Hanging

Here is a sample Rail Fence pattern using batiks in bright colors!

It is quilted by stitching in the ditch for the borders and diagonal rows of stitching across the blocks.

And of course, every project must have a label on the back! I machine embroidered the lettering, applied a decorative stitch around the edge and tacked the label on by hand.

Checking Off My List!

I had multiple things to do this morning before I started computer work. It's only 10 am and I have washed the kitchen floor, dusted the house and straightened up my sewing room. So now that my list has been accomplished, I'm back to the computer!

Exciting Day!!

What an exciting day in class yesterday!! Everyone's embroidered quilt will be completely different because of color choices in fabric and thread. As more designs are stitched and blocks are completed, it will be fun to see the various combinations. Now I want to get started stitching another quilt in another color... :-)

Machine Embroidery Applique

Today is the first class for the Beyond the Color Purple Quilt! One technique that is used frequently in this quilt is applique stitched with an embroidery machine.

An applique is created by attaching one piece of fabric onto another and stitching the raw edges with a satin stitch or decorative stitch. The applique fabric has wonder-under fused to the wrong side of it.

When stitching an embroidery applique design, there are two added colors in the design thread chart. The first is a placement stitch which stitches an outline around the shape of the applique. The second is a tackdown stitch which tacks the applique fabric to the block.

Here is how it works:
Stitch the placement stitch. Lay the applique fabric in the hoop so it covers the stitching. Stitch the tackdown stitch. Take the hoop out of the machine; do not take the fabric out of the hoop!! Using a small pair of scissors, trim the applique fabric close to the stitching. Snap the hoop back on the machine. Proceed with the next color of the design which will seal the fabric edges. If the design has multiple appliques, use the same procedure.

Whirlwind day!

What a whirlwind day today turned out to be!! It started by leaving home at 7:15 am. I met with two people regarding clothing alterations, ran several errands, taught a Sewing 101 class and prepared the classroom for my quilt class starting on Monday!

My day's activities are not quite over; I have more fabric and design preparation for class on Monday. But at least now I am home and can finish my to do list! I even made it home before it started pouring rain!! So I need to get to work cutting and marking fabric squares!!