Bucket List Club for March 2012

We are celebrating the "Chenile"  technique during the month of March.  We hope to find and share some links and ideas for chenile projects and personally challenge ourselves to try out the technique during March.  This takes place on the C-Bees yahoo group.

There is a brief write-up about the Bucket List Club program at this link with directions to the yahoo groups.     http://scrapboxquilts.blogspot.com/2012/02/bucket-list-club.html

Come join us.  Everyone is welcome!

Lattice Garden BOM

I loved the setting in this block of the month and the simplicity of the applique.   I plan to use different borders to enlarge the quilt.  You will find the project here:  http://www.jeanneraecrafts.com/quilt.html

Here are my January and February blocks.  I am finally using those black/white fat quarters.

Don't you just love the detailed elements you can cut from your fabrics?  I am excited over those little swirls in the center of the flowers.  Fun!

I don't know which flower will be offered for March,  but I hope it will be red or purple or blue or .............  LOL

Happy Valentines Day 2012

Have you heard me say that I get NO RESPECT from my sheltie dog, Kody? He rules the roost. This is my third sheltie and I have to say he cooperates the least,  BUT...........  he's the only sheltie who gives his mom a card for celebrations!  Isn't this card a keeper !!! 

I've heard it said that "Diamonds are a girls' best friend"  but at my stage in life, my answer is always CHOCOLATE !  A few weeks ago, I told dearest Husband, that dark chocolate  with rasberry creme would be my diamond.  I didnt think he took me that seriously, but.............  he delivered ! What a sweetheart!

I'm a lucky valentine today!  I wish for you all to have something to celebrate.

Delectable Mountains - Table Topper

This is a photo of my delectable mountains table topper. It began as a 27" square topper. I angled off four corners so the size doesn't overpower my table. I usually prefer the 18" - 24" size for my table.

The delectable mountains block can appear very dramatic. I think adding the applique softens the drama and makes a nice balance.

This photo is the same topper - rotated 90 degrees and  "appears"  as set on-pointe?  It reminds me of the bear paw block.  I love the look of the bear paw block, but  stressing over the points in all those HST has put me off.  That stress doesnt seem to be an issue when constructing the delectable mountains block. Those points seem to take care of themselves.

My delectable mountains projects were constructed using Bonnie Hunter's  directions over at
http://quiltville.com/delmts.shtml.  Thank you, Bonnie!

I have a post about delectable mountains table runners here:

http://scrapboxquilts.blogspot.com/search/label/del%20mtns

Visit the Free Pattern page for links to project files to create this project.

and  visit the EQ7 page for a link to the free EQ7 project file.

February is Delectable Mountains Month- Table Runners

I mentioned the Bucket List Club for a reason. Yep, February is for the Delectable Mountains block. This block is lots of fun to sew and design with.  There are several different construction methods for this block and different sizes. Here are links to a few of my favorite ones:

This page illustrates a more historical, traditional block and construction
http://www.patternsfromhistory.com/pioneer_patterns/delectable-mountains.htm

This page illustrates construction of a 9 inch finished block,using modern techniques
http://www.modabakeshop.com/2011/12/go-tell-it-on-mountain.html

This page illustrates construction of a finished block 6" by 7-1/2". It also shows lots of design possibilities. I love the scrappy one!  The block begins with  easy 8-1/2" squares.  I used this construction and dimensions for my delectable mountains collection which I'm sharing here.
http://quiltville.com/delmtspf.html

Here is my delectable mountains table runner.  It measures 12" by 45".

You will notice that I trimmed off the square corners.  This created a bit of a challenge with the binding. I think  I created 60 degree corners.  One corner didn't make for a smooth mitre.  I should have rounded them off.

Naturally, I  played around with this block design in EQ.  Here are a few layouts for table runners. They are all designed with the block dimensions from quiltville.com.  The differences are achieved by how you rotate the blocks.  Examples 1 and 2 use 12 blocks each and examples 3 and 4 use 16 blocks each.

  

Each 8-1/2" square makes 2 blocks, one and another one reversed.  For example, if you wanted to make runner #4, you only need to start with 8 light color blocks and 8 dark color blocks.  Stay tuned for the table topper. It's nearly ready!  

Bucket List Club

Should I mention the Bucket List Club?  The theory for this club is to challenge oneself with a new skill or to use an alternate method to achieve the skill.  A new skill is drawn from the bucket each month.  The rules are simple and few:....participate in any months that you can and use the skill in any method you choose.

Club Activities take place on    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CyberQuilters4-C-Bees/
This is a sister list of  the Cyberquilters group.  So you must belong to Cyberquilters in order to join C-bees.
BUT .........  Cyberquilters is one of the best quilting groups on yahoo, so you will benefit two-fold !

To join Cyberquilters........http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CyberQuilters/
Then join C-bees..............http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CyberQuilters4-C-Bees/

Our bucket list challenge this month is  the  delectable mountains block. We share links and tutorials to block construction and design and post our photos.  Come  join us !

Sofa Quilt - Center Panel

I have survived another phase of the Sofa Row Quilt. I have used all the teal I can take. LOL

I used the large Leaves Galore Ruler to cut the curved borders. I also used it to cut the center applique vine, leaves  AND the faux bias tape.  I just fused it on and top-stitched down.

Now I can move on to the flower appliques, echo quilting and the center panel will be complete.

Loose Ends of January

I suppose I should check in.  (grin) . I am keeping so busy, with nothing photo-worthy to share yet.

I have been working on my sofa row quilt.  I sewed the first four panels into sets of two larger panels. I had to piece backings for them, unexpectedly.  Those panels are machine quilted and waiting for final assembly. This is turning out to be one of my larger lap quilts.

I've also gotten the center applique panel ready and waiting for the final step. I made strip sets and turned them into curved borders on the center panel.  I just need to decide the applique now.  The next step is already simmering.  So, itt has reached a stopping point where I can set it aside while another short-term project butts in.

Short-term project:  I am doing mystery block  #64 from www.paperpanache.com.  Linda Worland puts out artistically detailed paper piecing blocks every month or so.   Since this is a mystery, I will refrain from posting a photo of my block until the solution is revealed.  I will adapt the size of the mystery block to accommodate my tabletop wire hanger.

and ....................      I have spent evenings knitting hats for local charity groups.

I know, there is nothing here to light any fire under your seat.  I just wanted to drop in and say hello.

Finally,  I am grateful and humbled for God's grace today.  Thank you, Lord.

Curved Borders Applique Panel

This is the center panel for my sofa quilt. The curved edge was created by making a strata, backing the strata with 'heat and bond', cutting the curves with the  24 inch Leaves Galore Ruler, and fusing the border to the background panel.

Ultimately, there will be applique filling in the center strip. I have some burgandys and gold to use in the applique.  I have some teal thread to top stitch the border strip down.  Do you think I should give the curved edge a finished look with bias tape? 

I am getting anxious to get this quilt put together.

Quilt Barns Window Curtain

I thought I'd share a photo of my window curtain for the laundry room. It is made from a panel of quilt barns designed by Deb Strain. I picked up 3 panels last year while in Shipshewana for my birthday.

Originally, I needed 2 panels to make the valances for my quilting studio. I have the valances ready to hang but the rods are not installed yet. I picked up an extra panel of quilt barns, just in case. I'm glad I used it right away.  The laundry room sets just off my studio area, so the theme carries through.

I fussy-cut around the barn blocks so there would be a specific trim of black and gold. Then I added the barn-red border, the checker border and finally the black sashing. An extra piece was needed on the sides to extend the curtain width. I added a backing and a rod casing.  These blocks are so cheery and colorful.  I really enjoy them.
 
 This project is my first step in "finishing school".

Checking In A New Year

I have been busy. Yes, I have.  I wish I had something interesting to share, but I've just been dabbling in assorted tasks. I finished my Barn Quilt Valances. They are not hanging up yet...waiting for DH to hang the rods. DH is waiting for me to move quilting tables and supplies, so he can hang the rods. 
We have been sorting thru stuff and boxing up items we no longer have an interest in.  I have managed to sneak in some sewing. I have been working on a Quilt Barn Window Curtain....nearly done with that, I think. That rod is already up!  I hope to be able to share a photo soon.

I've also been pulling fabrics for a Judy Hopkins Mystery Quilt.  Our Piecemakers Quilt Guild is conducting a sew-in later this month with this pattern.  I delay with the cutting, since I am likely to change my fabric choices.  I really needed to start another project, sure.  LOL

Dear God,   I didn't think orange went with purple until I saw the sunset you made yesterday.

QST TableMats

Happy Boxing Day!  I have finally finished 3 table mats. Initially, I had 2 odd pieces of this christmas multi print - approx 12" x 20".  I  thought I would challenge myself to use it up right away and not let it creep back into the scrap boxes.  I thought quarter square triangles (QST) would be fun.  Ha!  I made 40 QST blocks, then had to figure out what to do with them. I also had some binding already made up from another project from this print.

I got 2 placemats out of the pieces. Then I had 16 QST left-over. So I chose another print for the rectangle and put the remaining QST around that. This piece is about 25" long. I use quilted mats on end tables and dressers, backs of chairs........they are useful in so many places.

I'm glad to have this project finished. Now, I need to put away supplies so I can see my work tables again.

What will call to me next?

Blog Revamped

Greetings friends.  I have been doing some re-organization on my blog today. It is a struggle working with the posting editor lately. Should it be difficult to tell photos and text  "where to go"  ?   LOL !  I'm about ready to tell it where to go!

I have created some new pages to make it easier for you all to find files and patterns. These pages will direct you to all the posts about any specific project and to links to the files.

There is a new page for Free Patterns. Everyone can open these files.  There is also a new page created for EQ7 Project files. Please be aware that you need to have EQ7 installed on your computer, in order to open these files. Finally, there is a new page for Tutorials.

I think you will be able to find all the goodies much easier this way. I hope to have the opportunity to add more files in 2012! 

Merry Christmas to you and all those you hold dear!

My Favorite Ruler Works Overtime

I have found a new use for one of my favorite rulers. This ruler is from Guidelines http://www.guidelines4quilting.com/.  I really hate to plug merchants since I never receive any gratuity, but this is my second most favorite quilting tool.  I figured you would ask where to get it.  :D

Every 1/4 inch there is a groove. The yellow plastic strip can snap into any increment. It creates a ledge.You just tuck the ruler next to the edge of fabric. It stops at your selected measurement.










My first favorite tool, of course, is ElectricQuilt Software!  EQ has been top of my list for years. I doubt it will ever play second fiddle.    www.electricquilt.com

When I use the guidelines ruler,  I only have to look for the cutting line  ONCE.  Then I just scoot it to the edge of my folded fabric, and cut;  scoot and cut;   scoot and cut.   I especially like that it can guide your cuts to include 1/4 inch increments. 

Now on to my new use for this ruler. I was preparing a small quilt for using "self-faced" binding. I don't know if that is the correct term?  My piece is already quilted. I planned for the backing fabric to extend around to the front and serve as my binding.

I pinned the backing out of the way. I squared up and trimmed the top and batting even. Now I needed my backing to be trimmed even, with just enough to create a double-fold binding. This is where my guidelines ruler found a new use for me.

I set the yellow lever to 3/4 inch, scooted the lever against the trimmed edge of the quilt top and batting. This made it easy to get a nice edge to serve for the binding.

Now I just have to press the binding over once to meet the quilt edge; fold over again onto the quilt top and stitch down.

TA  DA !!    Here is my Christmas Rose Wreath table topper, all finished.  I see the markings from the Crayola washable markers ----  washed out!  Yea.

It is machine quilted with shiny gold rayon thread. I inserted a narrow gold flap between the background and the border.

I hope you all have a blessed Christmas with family and friends and remember the "reason for the season".... no shopping required.



If You Look For Me At Christmas .........

If you look for me at Christmas,  you won't need a special star

I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,  I'm right there where you are.

You may not be aware of Me amid the celebrations

You'll have to look beyond the stores and all the decorations.

But if you take a moment from your list of things to do

And listen to your heart, you'll find I'm waiting there for you.

You're the one I want to be with, You're the reason that I came,

And you'll find Me in the stillness as I'm whispering your name.

                                                                Love,   Jesus

Mini Christmas Rose Wreath

I finished my tabletop wreath. I did everything by machine. It's not my best job. I regret the chosen fabric for the binding. It is too light. It has a golden metallic sheen to it, but looks washed out.  But, alas, it is finished. I need to move on to other projects that I seem to think I have to do for Christmas!

This little mini measures 13" by 14".  It was paper pieced from fabric scraps. It was machine quilted with a serpentine stitch.  I love the varied effects you can get with a serpentine stitch.  I wish I could say my scrap pile is smaller.

I still have to sandwich and quilt the Christmas Rose Wreath table topper. I did manage to pull the fabrics I will use for the backing and binding.  I'm sure I spent half of my afternoon shopping my stash and deciding on just the right pieces. 

Pumpkin Panache

HAPPY  THANKSGIVING  EVERYONE!  Today, we will reflect on all the things we are thankful for. We have an abundance of blessings. I hope to remember to be "Thanks Giving" every day and carry it into 2012!

Finally, I get to share one of my little projects from October.............And you thought I was being idle!  LOL  This lovely pumpkin was the mystery block from www.paperpanache.com.  Linda Worland is an artist with her paper piecing designs.

I turned it into a  12" x 14"  mini quilt. It is displayed on a table top hanger. It is a great piece to compliment the other festive decor of autumn.

Tomorrow we can bust out the christmas stuff.  I better get those Christmas Rose Wreaths quilted!

http://scrapboxquilts.blogspot.com/2011/09/christmas-rose-wreath.html

Wishing you all Gods' blessings.



2012 Free Motion Quilting Challenge

I have made a commitment to participate in the Free Motion Quilting Challenge project in 2012.  I hope  that signing up will make me accountable to do it!  Free Motion Quilting (FMQ) is an important skill to develop if you like to complete the quilting process  to-the-finish..... and I do.    I have avoided using this method for fear I will ruin the quilt top.  It's time to face the fear!

You can find out about the 2012 FMQ Challenge here: 
            http://sewcalgal.blogspot.com/p/free-motion-quilt-challenge.html


There is also a button:

Wish for me- courage and perseverance for this challenge!

A Time Out

I didnt mean to neglect the blog.  I must have needed a time-out to re-group.  I hope to be fully charged and back to my happy scrappiness next week.

I have been spending much leisure time enjoying the blog hop for the Quiltmakers 100 Blocks blog tour. Issue No. 4 looks to be very promising. I am loving it.  I was greatly disappointed with Issue No. 3. I am glad these block collections are again, on a upswing of superior creativity!

You can visit all the posts here:  http://www.quiltmaker.com/blogs/quiltypleasures/

May you all have a happy and blessed weekend.

                 *** THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VETERANS, THANK YOU !!!  ***

Hippie or Gypsy or Fashion Faux Pas?

Somebody caught the President of our Piecemakers Quilting Guild in a colorful outfit!  Did she find that outfit among all the gorgeous fabric which surrounds her in the photo?  Was she a live player in the 60's?  I think probably so!

This is Kathy B.  I wonder if this picture was caught on video as she held up the LQS?  I hope she will share some of that fine-feelin, feelin-fine fabrics with us!

 She's got those fingers stickin up.....no, no,  she's sayin  PEACE,  but what she really means is   "piece - and quilt " !