VROOMANS QUILTS

Cherry Christmas

2012-03-07T19:35:00.000-08:00

A reminder that this Saturday is the Christmas Quilt Along. The Fiestive Mystery Quilt can certainly be done in any fabric/color and we are just getting into the first block construction so don't feel like you are too far behind to join in. OR join us with some other little giftie project. This month's Quilt-A-Long hostess will be Joanna at Neelde Thread Happiness. I have my quilt fabrics cut and ready and a small project on the side.

And 'Made in Cherry' is officially finished. I chose to use 2" scrappy red squares and machine quilted with a diamond cross-hatch. I used a craft weight felt for batt - spritzed with water and hot air dried to shrink - then ironed to felt. This is one wallhanging that 'hangs straight'.

I used a Windham reproduction for backing and same for binding. This will be entered in our quild show and hopefully in our regional Quilter's Hall of Fame show (by invite). (32" square)

Traveling Stash Updates

Box #1 - Samantha just received the box and should post this weekend so it is up to you to watch for her post
Box #2 - is now moving on to Diane at From Blank Pages

Box #3 - no activity change

Box #4 - Jennifer is holding comments until Sat March 10th midnight

Box #5 - Pass it on Box - Sarah is holding comments until late Thurs March 8th - hurry on this one

Box # 6 - no activity change

I have 12 other projects on the go, but not going to show bits here today - my house is a shambles!! A lot of projects to finish by the end of this month - a lot of my side buttons will be coming down at the end of the month - BUT I have a list of new ones that will be added for April. Hope you are progressing (and joining in) with your Bingo Cards - more prizes have been donated. Selina thank you for your triangle trims - I am already sewing them up tonight - just had to play with them!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

National Crafting Month

2012-03-04T21:05:00.000-08:00

March is National Craft Month. About 56 percent of U.S. households include a person with a passion for crafting, according to the Craft and Hobby Association. Here are five facts about crafting:

1. Woodworkers spent the most on their craft, about $3.3 billion in 2010, according to the Craft and Hobby Association's Attitude and Usage Survey.
2. A product called Kodak Shoe Art Film by a company called Shoe Attitude won the innovations showcase best-of-show competition at the Craft and Hobby Association winter show. The product allows people to customize shoes made of leather, canvas or synthetic material with ink-jet printed images.
3. Food crafting, which is ranked among the top pursuits, includes cake decorating, cupcake decorating, candy making, gingerbread house making and other edible crafts related to holidays, birthdays and celebrations.
4. 14 percent of U.S. households are home to at least one active quilter, according to Quilting in America 2010, a statistical report. The number of quilters is down from 2006, but spending on quilting is up.
5. Women are the majority of those pursuing four out of five of the top craft segments.

I plan on doing my crafting with this little goody bag that was dropped off at my house the other day. Yes, I get from little baggies right up to lawn/leaf bags of scraps. But this one is delightful! Alexander Henry, Windham, RJR, NorthCott, Prim wools, plaids, shirtings - oh, my heart flutters.

The first thing I pulled was some reproduction prints to use in the new mini by Temecula Quilt CO - the same ones who offered the 12 Days of Christmas sampler. I have the little basket button on my side bar. A block each Thursday thru the month of March, easy peasy. This could be used in Barbara's new Doll Quilt Swap.

I am putting the finishing touches on the Bust Yo Scraps quilt. I only had enough of this white (and we know not all whites are the same) and if you look close you can see where I pieced the one border to use what I had. I am browsing my stash to put another border and then ready for quilting. The original pattern used 8.5" snow balls and 2.5" squares - mine are 4.5" snowballs and 1.5" squares. **will link up to Patchwork Times design wall** and at some point it will be quilted with the new SewCalGal FMQ Challenge for the month.

More crafting on Cherry. I give you permission to knock me up side the head if I ever think of doing 1" cross hatch ever again!! Slow going, but almost done. Then the binding. Thank heavens I did this with smaller size squares - will be a 32" square wallhanging. I can't imagine doing a large quilt with this type of quilting!

My Pioneer Friendship Quilt is finished. I call it that, even though you folks will identify it as the 'granny block' - because it is not a granny block. I really had trouble with jumping in on this as I knew something was wrong. It is my nature to research history of fabric, patterns, and blocks and I knew I had seen this before. So to the best resource - my MOM. She knew immediately and we pulled 3 of her books and 2 of mine - it is an ALBUM block - sometimes called the Chimney Sweep Block or the Pioneer Friendship Block. It is usually made with a muslin center so a bible verse, prayer, or name can be added. The rest of the block uses little fabric so easy for adding what was on hand at the time. Then the community ladies would 'bee' to put the blocks together, tie off the quilt with 'prayer knots' and gift to a new family in the community. My resource book was 'Better Homes and Gardens' 501 quilt blocks (album blocks section) copyright 1995 - exact directions and cutting. As much as I love seeing a lot of quilters enjoying a process - please educate yourselves and give proper credit where due.

We are tickled pink to see Bingo Cards starting to pop up around the web. Kim at KimsCraftyApple gave me permission to link her post on her card. Just to give you some inspiration. I would be happy to link a post if any one would like to show their progress. And I have had some questions on not having novelty prints, what to do. Oh, go look over your fabrics my dears - with a much closer, loving eye. Polka dots, stripes, sure you have all kinds of florals (roses, daisies, tulips, pansies), circles, squares, maybe there's a hidden butterfly, look at those fall fabrics - leaves, acorns, christmas fabrics - candies, gingerbread men, deer, santa - just look with a different eye. This is meant to be fun - not stressful.

Quilt Gallery will be hosting a St. Patrick's Day Blog Hop. Go here for information and sign-up. I will be passing on this one - as a participant and hopper, as I have a lot on my March crafting plate.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Try not only to set some crafting time for yourself, but to share it with someone else. I plan on having some small craft items to share with my grandson when he visits - I love that he is now old enough for this kind of fun.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Updates and Winners

2012-03-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - Samantha - Quazy Quilter - no word

Box #2 - Lindsay - Lindsaysews - comments open until March 6th

Box #3 - Traveling to Martha - Living Life

Box #4 - Jennifer - Knotted Thread - no word

Box # 5 - Traveling to Sarah - Confessions of a Fabric Addict

Box #6 - (new box started with Leap Day Blog Hop) traveling to Linda - Stray Stitches

BINGO

Prizes are listed over at Tonya's - Hillbilly Handiwork

Remember, in order to participate in the May For Me Bingo, you will need a Bingo Card and it will need to be linked up when opened. We will all be giving you updates and gentle reminders as things roll along.

WINNERS

Did you catch the charms in the beginning? Well I was overwhelmed with the number of comments, we had our first snow storm here in the North East, I picked up a lot of new followers, and heck I just feel like it. I decided to double-down my give away. Yes, another set of charms: Domestic Bliss paired with a red Bella solid.

Marlene - Stitching By the Lake and Lesley - The Cuddle Quilter will receive the "Sassy bundle and Susan - Hanging on by a Needle & Thread and Richard Healey - Richard Quilts will each receive the Domestic Bliss bundle.

And for those who think I have sponsors - NO - I either have it in my stash or purchased specifically for a give away, but more importantly it is from my heart. I will be sending each winner a personal e-mail for information and I thank all of you for participating.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

NewFO and Link-Ups

2012-02-29T20:51:00.001-08:00

All I can say is Barbara made me do it. Well, I don't really need someone to give me permission to start something new, but it does help and makes you feel so good! I won't re-post past photos but a list:

Little houses, Cross Stitch Ornaments, Picnic Quilt (finished), Block designs for Sarah (Confessions of a Fabric Addict) and Crazy Old Ladies, Christmas Quilt Along, String Along - 3 types of blocks going as well as mini HSTs, Valentine's Day Ackfeld Hanger Mini -my own and one for a swap (finished), 12 Days of Christmas Sampler (finished), Moda's Sliced Entry, Cherry Quilt Along, and Zig-Zag Quilt. New project started and finished below.

Check the other NEWFO bloggers at Cat Patches - you might catch the fever.

TANGERINE TANGO

Dimensions - 15" x 18" using a veriation of tube technique for Bargello. Fabrics : 'What A Hoot" collection from Classic Cottons, Shot Cotton -Kaffee Fasset, Elements by Mark Lipinski - hand quilted with DMC 2 strands floss in three different orange colors. Bargello to represent the dance floor and quilted circles to represent the dancers. Linking up to A Squared Tangerine Tango Challenge.

SCHNIBBLES

This month's pattern was 'i.s.t.h' and right up my alley. Lots of HSTs and tiny pieces - so me! Used Collections for a Cause - Comfort by Howard Marcus, Moda Muslin, and Chocolat by 3 Sisters. FMQ with Connecting Thread's PRO line thread - Brown top line and their Essential Beige bottom line. It is 28" square. This will be in the parade of Schnibbles with Sheri and Sinta later this week.

JELLY ROLL

This is my entry for the "Let Me See Your Jelly Roll" with Crooked Seams. I just love any of the Fig Tree lines, so soft and warm and blendable. This is the pattern 'Boxed Squares' from Mary Quilts and I love that it uses EVERYTHING - no waste is wonderful. Quilted with a stretched serpentine with a peach verigated YLI thread.

And had to show - this is the first time I have used a Vintage Sheet for a backing.

COLOR AND FMQ CHALLENGE

This was my interpretation of the Color Challenge with Patch Work Times. 10 colors to match - no way in my stash, but I had a paisley with all of them and then pulled some of the colors.

It's hard to see, but I used the FMQ Challenge with Sew Cal Gal with this same piece. This time it was feathers - I drew a lot of feathers! Then just decided it had to be done and did it. The center is feathers echoed each side, borders have small flowers and some leaves.

ACKFELD HANGER MINI

The center is cross stitch using 18 count Aida cloth, DMC floss and Sulky Silks and Metalics - representing March coming in like a lion and going as a lamb. My first time using gold lame' fabric and probably my last. It does not like an iron on it, so used a pressing cloth (sparingly) and used it in the binding - very hard to needle. But I do love the look.
(and we finally had a snow storm - who heard of the Northeast with no snow)
** linking up to Sarah's Whoop Whoop**

And for Billie who is counting - how many is that for the year? And I am looking forward to some new projects for March, after all it is a long month.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

B - I - N - GO

2012-02-28T21:08:00.001-08:00

Did you guess it? Did you find the clues? For those that did, thank you for keeping it to yourself. But, YES, we are planning a BINGO game for our 2012 MAY FOR ME. And the reason we are starting early - you are going to make your own BINGO card. Yep - that's what you heard. I know it is a ways to May, but we want you to have time to make your card, and then there will be a period to link your card up with us as an entry. Time will fly. And I am going to share a tutorial on how to make your card - of course, you are free to add your own personality and creativity - but this will help you along.

TUTORIAL

You are going to need twenty five (25) 2.5" squares. B is going to be Blue, I is going to be Yellow, N is going to be Red with the black center, G is going to be Green, and O is going to be Purple. Now don't fret if you don't have a lot of fussy cut prints - use your imagination. I had a yellow duck - even though on green background, I am using him as my yellow. Stars are good, but use them in only one color choice. A Paisley, a dot, or a stripe will work, but again, use them in only one color choice. You have lots of time to find your squares - jot down what they are - you will see why later.

I am going to show you a way to sew small squares into a block with a technique called 'webbing'. Match your column one (blue) with your column two (yellow) squares and chain thru your machine - DO NOT CUT THREADS.

Now match up column three (red with black center) to your yellow and chain thru again - DO NOT CUT THREADS.

Yup - match that next column - # 4 is the greens and chain thru your machine - DO NOT CUT THREADS>

And then your last column - the purples - chain thru and DO NOT CUT THREADS. You now have your BINGO card block in a web.

You can use your iron to press the rows in opposite directions or finger press ( which is what I did) and then match up your seams, pin, and sew. Repeat with each row. The 'web' structure helps with the matching up. Then press your completed BINGO card block.

We are going to make a mini-quilt sandwich. And you can finish off your card how ever you like. I added a skinny black sash. Then stitched 5 scrap lite squares and used my perma pen to write B - I - N- G - O. This is your card - this is only a helpful suggestion, but complete this as you desire. A backing, batt (use up those scraps) and quilt stitch in the ditch or what ever your fancy. Leave raw edge, pink edge, rick rack, or binding to finish. This is your card.

Remember I said to keep a list of what each block represented? This is why - we need a printed sheet with your list just like I show here. This is not only to help you remember when it comes time to play, but when you link up, it will help Tonya make the master list for when we pull BINGO names. So yes, we need it large enough to read it when posted with your card. As you can see, I pinned mine right to my card for safe keeping. Hey - my card has been made and hanging since right after Christmas! So when your card is made, hang it up and admire.

And this is how you are going to mark your card - BUTTONS. Now if you don't have a dozen button tins like I do, there is time to gather. I am actually up-cycling some shirts and removing their buttons - they are small and have a textural color/look, so I am going to use these. And if you have never sewn on a button - time to learn. And this is for fun, no stress!!!! After we are done playing BINGO, I will be offering a tutorial on how to turn your card into a mini wallhanging to keep and cherish - or gift.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to check out my co-conspirators - they made their own cards (and I haven't seen them yet either so going to visit them) :

Tonya of HillBilly Handiworks - she may be sharing some rules, too.......

Marcia of Marcia's CraftySewing - she has lots of good ideas for inspiration in finishing and quilting....

Snoodles of LilyPad Quilting - she just learned about fussy cuts and can share on a first hand experience.....

We all are here to help if you have questions and will pop in to remind you of progress...... Looking forward to MAY FOR ME and BINGO!!!! And if you were with us last year, you know there were lots of give aways - hey, May is my Birth Month - and I share my celebration all month long!!!!

Sincerely Yours,
Sharon

Leap Day Blog Hop Give Away

2012-02-28T11:06:00.003-08:00

**This give away is now closed and winners notified**

Welcome to VroomansQuilts and thank you Elizabeth of Such a Sew & Sew for hosting. I am giving away two bundles - one charm pack of Sassy paired with one charm pack of Bella Solid - seems you need 2 charm packs these days for a quilt, right!

No hoops to jump, you don't even have to be a follower (but you are welcomed), just double the fun - just leave a comment and be sure I have a way of contacting you (if you are a no-reply blogger you can't win - see my side button to check)as every effort will be made to send a personal e-mail to the winners. I will also ship over-seas, so open to all. I will leave the give away open until Friday (March 2) midnight and announce the winner Saturday (March 3).

Click HERE to link to the other participants.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Between Seasons

2012-02-26T23:20:00.000-08:00

We are between seasons. One day it is sunny, warm and clear. You can feel and hear things growing; stretching to a new cycle of life. Then the next day it is cold, snowy, and dark. You can feel the disappointment as tender shoots and little buds tuck up tight - waiting. This between stage is showing in my work. Some pieces dark - come cuddle at the hearth, let's tuck up tight. And then some pieces are bright and warm; stretching to that new cycle.

WARM AND BRIGHT ON THE WALL

I decided to go with the white for my setting in the 'Cherry' piece. It's crisp, clean, and gives a pop -- maybe it is that returning little bit of winter that made me pick the white. I don't know if I will border now or just finish with a tonal red binding. I think I want to hand quilt the star in white and the settings in red.

Gosh, that box was calling me. The jelly roll I had won for January's 'Let Me See Your Jelly Roll' challenge - Sandy Gervais' 'Fresh Squeezed. It had been cut into 5" lengths by Megan (?) so I paired them with some white for 2-rails. I had seen so many zig-zag quilts and so wanted to make one - that ever growing 'want to make' list. You have one of those don't you??? That hint of stretching into Spring, yet the white snow has yet to let go. I can see lots of possibilities with colorful large hand stitches. But this will sit for my March jelly roll challenge piece as my February is already done. We had a few days of Winter thrown at us, and tomorrow should be some Spring and I can get that one outside for some photos for the challenge post.

A peek at my Tangerine Tango Challenge piece. I get inspired at the strangest times. I am an insomniac and find my 'high point' is 2-4 am. The other night it was gusting so badly, I was afraid the roof and/or windows were going to fly. Thus, the Tango was born in all that furry and frenzy. I have just a little more hand quilting to finish up and the binding is waiting. It will be done by the March 2nd deadline - and I didn't even intend to enter this one. Funny where inspiration leads us.

**I will be linking up with Judy's on the wall at Patch Work Times**

**I added a new button for Hands2Help 2012 - click on it to take you to Sarah and all the information is there**

CLOSING THOUGHT

'The moon hangs full in the sky white and ripe
as if to nod off or fall, full of light.
In the garden at the time between seasons
only the moon fruits among silver stalks that have wintered over.
In light, white enough to be snow but no longer snow,
the conscience of the garden wakes.'
- Barbara Van Noord

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Leap Day Fun

2012-02-24T18:11:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth over at Such a Sew and Sew is hosting a linky party giveaway on Leap Day, February 29, 2012. Here's how it will work:

• Choose something to give away on Leap Day. Keep it simple. You can make something, give away a bit of your stash, offer a service, buy your favorite gadget to give away or offer something completely non-crafty. Your blog, you choose.

• To participate in the blog hop, your giveaway must start and end on Leap Day. You can open it at 10:00 am and close it at 10:00 pm, or go midnight to midnight, or anything in between. Your blog, your rules.

• Post your giveaway and then link up with Elizabeth. Please include the Leap Day Giveaway button somewhere in your post. The linky will open at noon MST on February 28th and close at 10:00 am MST on March 1st, to allow for people in different time zones to participate.

• If you want to include the linky on your giveaway post so that others can link up from your blog, the code is available on the Sew & Sew blog. If you choose to add the linky to your post, you MUST include the above rules so that it is fair play for all.

**I plan to link up our little groups' planned fun and have my own give away. Oh, let me introduce you to the other ladies:

Marcia at Marcia's Crafty,Sewing
Snoodles at LilyPad Quilting
Tonya at Hillbilly Handiworks

Have you found the clues? Really, no? Then you better GO take another look. If you have figured it out, don't GO telling anyone. No, don't GO and ask me, cuz I won't tell. You are just GOing to have to wait for some Leap Day Fun that will lead into our plans for May For Me 2012**

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Clover & Violet Quilt & Stitch Along

2012-02-23T20:06:00.000-08:00

The Clover & Violet NEW quilt and stitch along began with fabric and supply list on February 22 - you have lots of time to think and gather. I enjoyed their last summer picnic quilt, so certainly look forward to what is in store with this one. And it is offered in two sizes, so you can decide on the time committment that fits into your schedule.

These are my fabrics and I will decide on color threads for stitching once they are revealed. I like to use DMC and have LOTS of it!! I think I need another yellow for ballance. I will be using my favorite - muslin - for my stitching area.

Just click on the button on the side bar and it will take you to the Clover & Violet link. Hope you will join in.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Sliced

2012-02-23T01:40:00.001-08:00

Well I decided one night that I would take a crack at the Moda Bake Shop SLICED competition. You had to use all the items is the 'basket' for a project to aid or improve your office or studio. That made me laugh as I don't have either of those things - I work in my combo dining-living room.

But I've always had a concern for when my grandsons come to visit that all my sharp objects are picked up and out of the way. Thus my project evolved. One to recycle and use scraps - grabbed a clean, empty coffee can waiting for recycling day; my box of left over charms from that last baby quilt - a mix of Me and My Sister's Twirl and Emelia charms, some scrap batt, scrap piece of Moda Muslin, and a decorative buckle (required).

After measuring the can for height (6.5") and circumference (19.5") I laid my muslin face down and topped with the batting and cut with a .5" extra allowance. This is my base for the technique - flip & sew.

I chose some mix of charms and cut them in half to work with 2.5" x 5" sections and stitched them, flip, press, and sew the next one on down across the bottom of the base. You can leave these as is or decorative stitch - which I chose to do.

I used the same method on the top portion by joining halved charms sewn end-to-end and then stitching across, flip and press - added decorative stitching to hold. I used YLI verigated blue/purple/pink thread which gave a nice look. Trim to size (6.5" x 20") and sew short edge seams so you have a tube.

I made a binding with halved charms sewn end to end. Stitched to the inside and turned to the outside, decrative stitched down. This was done on the bottom and top of the tube - a completed cover for the can.

Using a charm to make a 'belt' for the buckle, and two small 'bags' with charms - they were attached to one end of the belt, fed thru the buckle and end sewn to the can sleeve cover. These little bags are for my small sharps - seam rippers and sewing machine screw drivers. From the can lid I cut out the inner circle, used two layers of scrap batt - sewed them to the circle and that is placed in the can to protect the tips of my scissors and snips.

My finished project with all the sharps in a safe place that can quickly be put out of place when little ones come to visit.

The Slice project is open for entries until February 29 - an extra day with Leap Year - so why not give it a try. Go to the Moda Bake Shop web site for the rules.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Also linking to Sarah's Whoop Whoop Friday

President's Day

2012-02-19T22:32:00.000-08:00

The holiday was established in 1800, when Congress declared February 22–George Washington's birthday–a federal holiday. Still legally known as Washington's Birthday, Presidents' Day has become a day to honor not only Washington, but Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. president who was born on February 12, and the lives and accomplishments of all U.S. presidents. Presidents' Day, changed with a bill in 1971, is celebrated each year on the third Monday in February, is a day when Americans honor the legacies of the U.S. presidents. All of the U.S. presidents except for George Washington have lived in the White House; it wasn't completed until after Washington left office.

ON THE WALL

My little box of little houses was toppling over, so thought it a good time to start sashing them (1.5" sash). I chose a black with cheddar dots and the corner stones are from the scrap pile. Still trying to decide if I want to throw in an occassional tree and/or larger house. **Will link up with Judy at Patchwork Times**

And I am almost done with the February Schnibbles. My Brother, which I normally do all my machine quilting with, came down with a seized motor and needed repair. So I adapted to my old faithful 'New Home' (Janome), FMQ the center and then used my walking foot on the outer border. Actually she sits waiting for me to finish the last few stitches of binding.

Two more lovely spool blocks from my partner Billy. She included some gorgeous 'Gum Blossom' fabrics. Look at that card! Inspiration abounds. Thank you Billy.

FINISHES

Finally my poor second 12 Days of Christmas Sampler is done! I just couldn't find the right fabric/color for the binding. Then one of our class ladies graced me with a wonderful bag of scraps from her sewing room - and there in the bottom, yes, could it be??? I multi=green check (a green dot found for the back) and now this sweet thing is done and hanging on my wall - for a while, as my daughter wanted this one.

I, also, finished the Color Challenge and FMQ that with the newest 'feather' challenge. BUT you won't see that until those postings go up.

CLOSING THOUGHT

When was it decided that President's Day was a 'marketing/sales' day - and that it was a good time to also have a week off from school? WOW - I think I will stay close to home and sew the time away.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

News & Winners

2012-02-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

New button on the side bar - most of you know Sarah of Confessions of a Fabric Addict. She is part of a group of bloggers presenting this delightful new book. Check out the listing on her blog for dates and hosts. **if you click the button it will take you to that post**

There are some other new buttons on the side bar, so please drop in and check things out. Maybe you even missed one that's been there a while. I try to keep things over there that might interest you folks - not that I am doing them all - welllllll.......

And I so meant to post this on 'Peek A Boo' - my goal this year is to meet some of blogland's nearby sweeties. I got to meet up with Robbie of Rooee's Confetti. Gosh we conversed for some time between blogs before realizing we are only about 30 miles from each other. She mentioned she would be doing part of her Quilt Guild's program - just a 15 minute drive for me, so I dropped by for a surprise. (see that arm in the photo - green sweater - that's me)

**Almost forgot - check out Barbara at Cat Patches as she is looking to see if there is interest in a mini/doll quilt swap**

WINNERS

Thank you all for your lovely comments on my Valentine's post - so heartfelt. Now the winners of the Always & Forever:

Mrs Pickles at Mrs Pickles Garden
Sue Daurio at Sue Daurio Quilting Adventure

Congratulations ladies, and I will be sending a personal note for information. Remember, a Leap Year Surprise is coming and some scattered fun leading up to May For Me.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Peek A Boo

2012-02-15T22:51:00.000-08:00

Remember playiNg 'Peek a Boo' with a baby? Their woNdermeNt at how you disappeared aNd theN magically reappeared? AN expressioN of doubt, or frowN, a cry, a giggle. I get that way wheN bloggers show 'peeks' of work - or do aN 'I caN't show yet'. But I caN certaiNly uNderstaNd all that as I am working a little 'iN secret' myself. So today is a Secret Peek A Boo Day.

These are my fiNal borders for the February SchNibble. I thiNk everyoNe is holdiNg this oNe 'close to the vest' as I have Not seeN aNythiNg arouNd bloglaNd like we did with the Full House. Actually I am iN the haNdquilting stage and biNdiNg waitiNg.

Is aNyoNe workiNg oN this moNths Color ChalleNge? Have Not seeN much arouNd bloglaNd oN this oNe either. I kNow - 10 colors!! I was Not about to go out aNd buy 10 fabrics for this because just Not my palette. But we sometimes have to work outside the box. So compromise - I fouNd the paisley print at my LQS (oN sale) with all the colors iN it. TheN came home aNd weNt dumpster diviNg iN all my scrap biNs aNd totes to fiNd some thiNgs to work with it. It just Needs to be quilted (machiNe)and biNdiNg waitiNg.

ANd block #11 for the Fat Quarter Star Quilt AloNg. I am startiNg to sash aNd assemble the top, so wheN block #12 comes out, I will be ahead of the game iN gettiNg this iNto a flimsy - maybe eveN keep it from becoming a UFO!

And have you seeN aNyoNe practiciNg their FMQ with the feathers? Oh, gosh, I woN't show miNe either. I caN't eveN draw them! This is oNe challeNge that I will have to use a steNcil aNd mark them as there is no way I caN do this free haNd - feel like the 3 Stooges all wrapped in oNe. Ah, laughter is the best mediciNe.

TRAVELING STASH

Hold onto your boots - cuz there are 5 boxes on the move now!!! And all of them heading to new homes - hope I can keep up with them all for ya:

Box 1 (now split) heading to Samantha at Quazy Quilter

Box 2 is heading to Lindasy at LindasySews

Box 3 is heading to Robin at RsIsland Crafts she has several blogs so I hope I can keep track which one she posts the stash on.

Box 4 (from #1 split) heading to Jennifer at Knotted Thread

"Pass it On Box" is heading to Miki at Miki's Fabric Creations

WOW WOW WOW - Good luck

CLOSING THOUGHT

SewiNgly Yours,
SharoN

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T21:35:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day. I have had some flowers and candy and some shared lovelies. This little sweetie I made as part of my Quilt Guild Heart Challenge and for my monthly hanger project. Yes, she is 3-D and kickin' up her heels - oh, maybe I should have put shoes on her?

And I can show the whole thing now - the Valentine I made for the Initial Heart Swap. One of my fabric framed cross stitch pieces. OF course I am still loving the one I received.

And I had this lovely piece arrive - Vickie at A Creative Notion had a give away and we could pick the color - oh, you know it HAD to be blue!! Isn't this just special??

This box arrived too - I was runner up in the "Let Me See Your Jelly Roll' challenge at Crooked Seams. I already know what I am doing with this for a new spring quilt for a birthday gift for a family member.

And be still my heart - this huge box of lovelies were the Grand Prize for the Scrap Along Challenge at Pleasant Home. I shared some of the things in the box with family and friends so pieces are missing. This box was stuffed! Yes, there were baggies of scraps from projects shared during the month - I am always tickled with a bag like this - ideas spinning!! Oh, the bag is just so sweet, did not expect this in the box. And the new book 'Cut The Scraps' has been well thumbed already.

Since I have been so blessed with gifts and wins - and I didn't use these lovely charms - I have 2 charm packs of Deb Strain's 'Always & Forever' along with 2 mailers left. So I can pick TWO winners - will hold comments until Friday midnight and announce the winners Sat. Feb 18th. I will ship over-seas.

CLOSING THOUGHT

On Valentine's Day we think of those who make our lives worthwhile,
Those gracious, friendly people who we think of with a smile.
I am fortunate to know you, that's why I want to say,
to a rare and special person: Happy Valentine's Day!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Stringing Along

2012-02-12T21:46:00.000-08:00

Hearts strings, stringing you along, string of bad luck, string of good luck, tie a string around your finger, string quartet, string of music, quitar string, yo-yo string ....... Oh, I could go on. When you look at a piece of thread do you see it as a string? When you look at a bit of fabric, do you notice how the threads (strings) are woven to make the whole? When you use that thread and that bit of fabric, do you see how the strings become stronger?

Yes, that endless bounty of strings in that tote! Seems to be no end in sight, but hey look! How is it that a dangling string of fabric will always attract a kitty just as much as a bit of yarn? It was hard enough to sort out what I wanted without the Queen trying to 're-claim' it as hers.

These are my blocks for the Scrap Attack Strings QAL and I decided to go with a rectangle block rather than a square. I love Char's at Clothe Stitched and Pattie's at PattilousQuilts rectangular string quilts and had to give them a go. My center string is a 'mushroom' colour - I use so much white, I thought it would be nice to play with another kind of string - these are 6.5" x 8.5". Yes, Moe had to help too.

OK - had to make some 6" string blocks. There are just so many in that tote to play with. I am just so amazed at how different these look compared to the other blocks. They are fun, and a great way to use up those strings.

These are so cool. The pattern is from Marcia's Quilter's Cache and those strings are 1/2" - so I am using right to the smallest up. I think I will use a skinny black sashing so I don't have to play with all those setting seams.

And of course there were lots of triangles created, found, and given to me (clippings from the 1600 Jelly Roll Race), so they were done up into HSTs which I love to play with. I had a LOT of small ones to say the least. Those will finish at 1" and I didn't count them - just chained them up into groups of ten.

I will be linking up with Scrap Attack Strings Quilt Along and Judy's Design Wall Monday at Patchwork Times.

And I did have a finish. This baby quilt was made from scrap strings given me - yes, wider strings, but they made for a sweet crib quilt. I hand quilted this up in one night - yes, when I don't sleep. The backing was in my other scrap tote - a lovely piece of Hoffman 2007 International Challenge fabric. Pink, peach, raspberry, and cream string/scrap goodness someone was going to toss out - now a cuddly quilt.

CLOSING THOUGHT

"Words form the thread on which we string our experiences."
-Aldous Huxley

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Traveling Stash!!

2012-02-12T01:53:00.000-08:00

I know you all are following these boxes so want to update as they are all ready to move on shortly and I don't want you to miss out:

Box #1 Quilting NaNa comments open til Monday night - Feb. 13th

Box #2 HoosierToni comments open til Weds Night - Feb 15th

Box #3 My Sister Made Me Do It comments open til Tues. Night - Feb 14th

NEW BOX - called 'Pass It On' started by Brandie at ABC and now with KatieQ at Saltmarsh Path comments open til Tues night - Feb 14th

Good Luck
Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Quilt Along

2012-02-11T02:56:00.000-08:00

Today is the day! The first Christmas Quilt Along and our hostess for today is Hazel at Haxel's Quilts and she has a linky set up for you to share your progress for the day. I hope you join in - I will be updating thru-out the day on this one post and linking up myself.

This is my sorry tote of Christmas fabrics - not many, but enough to go for the scrappy setting and I will put the pot of coffee on and start cutting. I think I have a panel somewheres that could be pulled out for some extra play.

Even if you are not up to the mystery quilt, it's a good day to start on a Christmas project. So come play with us today, and link up over at Hazel's,

**UPDATE**

My fabrics are all cut - scrappy dark greens, red for medium, gold for light and Kona Snow for background. Will pack them in the Christmas tote with the extra fabrics (for incase) and it well be ready to come out and play next month. Now off to find that panel!

**UPDATE**

Well, I didn't find the panel yet, but did come across this box - so I will see what I was attempting, or just go with something else with it. Looks like some fun.

**UPDATE**

As I started sorting this box of partially made HSTs and some of the 'scenes' fussy cut - I remembered and had a bit of a cry! I had started this as a gift for my Dad - sadly he passed away, so I put the project away, tucked into a back corner. He loved to make replica Amish furniture, supported my Mom's love of quilting, made many little quilting tools, quilt racks, quilt hangers, etc... I will finish this project up and give it to my youngest son who was very close to his grandpa and has a lot of his characteristics.

**UPDATE**

Well, I got 9 of the 12 star blocks done, had a nap with the fur babies and the party is over. I have a baby quilt to finish the last row of hand quilting and then the binding, so thank you Hazel for starting us all off right. Until next quilt, along.......

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

'New' News

2012-02-08T22:40:00.000-08:00

The 2012 ChrIstmas QuIlt Along wIll be startIng thIs Saturday - Feb. 11 and wIll be held each month on the 2nd Saturday of that month. Sue at QuIlt Times Is over-see'er, but thIs year Is a lIttle dIfferent as each month wIll be hosted by a dIfferent blogger:

February: Hazel at Hazel's Quilts
March: Joanna at Needle, Thread, Happiness
April: Lesley at The Cuddle Quilter
May: Lynn at Sew'n Wild Oaks
June: Paulette at Sweet P Quilting & Creations
July: Sharon at Vroomans Quilts
August: Cathi at Shakerwood Quilts
September: Maureen at A Quilt Complex
October: Elizabeth at Sand and Sunshine
November: Janet at Caribou Crossing Chronicles
December: Sue at Quilt Times

A Mystery QuIlt Is being offered and I belIeve some of the Gals are goIng to have some other offerIngs as well. Hope to see you Saturday.

Clover & VIolet will hostIng another QuIlt and StItch along project startIng February 22. New button on the sIde wIll take you to the sIte.

TRAVELING STASH

Seems all the boxes are travelIng to new homes:

Box 1 Is headed to Darlene at Quilting NaNa

Box 2 Is headed to Toni at HoosierToni

Box 3 Is headed to My Sister Made Me Do It

And I hope you are not too dog tIred by the end of February - It's Leap Year! And somethIng excIting Is comIng!

SewIngly Yours,
Sharon

Sarah's Block Tutorial

2012-02-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Sarah of Confessions of a Fabric Addict issued this block challenge. Using the ideas from 'Cut The Scraps!', written by Joan Ford and published by The Taunton Press; she recommends cutting your scraps into 5", 3.5", and 2" squares to aid in organization of your scraps. And with the entry, you give permission for Sarah's ministry group to use your block for their lovely and generous work in donation quilts.

SARAH'S BLOCK

This is my initial layout and test block - the tutorial will be using other fabrics. I used 4 fabrics - one being my focus fabric. Dimensions: two - 2" squares of cordinating fabric (number 1), one - 2" square of another cordinating fabric (number 2), one - 3.5" square and one 2" x 6.5" strip of solid, and one - 5" square of focus fabric. You will have a 6.5" x 8" final block - yes you can work a quilt with an 'odd' size block!

TUTORIAL

When doing a number of blocks and rather than cutting individual small pieces - it is quicker and more accurate to build strips and then sub-cut. Start with your "strip section" - cut from your coordinating fabric (referred to as number 1) 2" WOF (width of fabric) and from your solid a 6.5" WOF. Sew these together and press to the solid (this will aid in the block assembly) Sub-cut this strip into 2" wide strips. Yield - 20 pieces.

Now for those 'twosies' - Cut a 2" WOF of coordinating fabric (number 1) and cut a 2" WOF of other coordinating fabric (number 2). Sew these together and press to the number 2 coordinating fabric - the brown in my photo. Sub-cut into 2" sections - yield is 20 pieces.

Next I cut two stips of my solid (yellow dot used) - cut 3.5" WOF and then I laid them on top each other and sub-cut into 3.5" squares. Yield is 12 per strip or total 24 pieces.

Now we need our focus fabric - I cut three strips 5" WOF - you can cut all three laid on top, or two or singly - sub-cut into 5" squares. Yield is eight pieces per strip or total 24 pieces. *TIP* now lay all your units out (stack like units on top each other) like in my layout photo, you will not (hopefully) make an error in the following piecing.

Let's start assembling - Sew your 2 patch pieces to your 3.5" squares; being sure that your coordinating number 2 fabric is the same on all pieces. **note where my brown square is on all those sections chained thru the machine**

Press to the 3.5" square. Check you measurements and trim if necessary. They should be 3.5" x 5". Set those aside in your layout area. *Remember, this helps to be sure you are working your pieces in the correct direction*

We're almost there. Next we will add these newly sewn units to the 5" focus squares. Pay attention to where that 2-patch lays so they are all the same. Again, I just chain them thru the machine.

Press toward the 5" square and you can check your measurements - you should now have a 5" x 8" block.

We are heading to the finish line! Now it's time to sew that strip on. *TIP* keep the strip on the top when piecing so the machine is feeding the larger fabric section evenly thru the feed dogs** The nice thing is, the only seam you have to match are the two 2" corner squares! Again, I am a chain piecer - feed those thru your machine.

Press to the strip. Your blocks should finish out 6.5" x 8".

Here are four blocks together. One row with the larger square facing up and the second row with them facing down. The thing to remember when working with an odd size block like this, you will need more to go across (rows) then down (columns).

This shows you the extra patterns you get with this block thru out the quilt top. This flimsy and extra fabrics are already residing with Sarah as part of my donation to her wonderful group. And since this block was designed for Sarah, I am calling it 'Sarah's Block'.

If you make a quilt from this pattern, please link back to this post for credit - enjoy it. And if you have any questions or problems, please feel free to e-mail me.

Please visit Sarah and see all the blocks submitted, leave her a comment, and drop in on the contributors and leave them a little love.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Harbinger of Spring

2012-02-05T21:51:00.000-08:00

It's so hard to think that it is still Winter when it has been so warm, lite of snow and the yard is filled with Robins. And they vie with the possom and the skunk for the few wiggly worms in the mud of lawn and drive. I love being able to get more walking in, checking the flower beds to see what is starting to peek thru the 'covers'. But I'll keep those tender shoots under their blankets of leaves and bark - because I know Mother Nature can still throw a tantrum. And Robin Redbreast, we'll give you tender treats as you find your favorite spot in the old grape vines and bare apple trees. (and scold those furries for teasing you so)

DESIGN WALL

I just love the pattern chosen for the next Schnibbles - i.s.t.h. And pulled the fabric quickly as I knew exactly how I wanted to do this. Howard Marcus 'Collecions for a Cause - Comfort' just sings 'traditional' to me for this little quilt - with some 'Chocolat' by 3-Sisters and my favorite muslin. I already have bits of it hanging on the wall and mantel - working it as leader/enders. I will link up with Judy at Patchwork Times. I can't wait to see what everyone else has on their walls.

FIRST QUILT-2012

I had done a lot of house cleaning and the extra table was taken down because my grandsons came to visit over the weekend - needed a clear 'playzone' for all those cars and trucks. So when the table went back up, I was determined to get some quilts finished. So the Picnic Quilt was tackled first. Since I used a flannel back, I stayed with a simple stretched 'wiggle line' and used up some scrap binding (pieced a bunch together). Done - first large (50" square) quilt for the year and will be one of my donation quilts.

This quilt top was made during the Sew Scraps Along - and look - I was the Grand Prize Winner!! When my goodies arrive, I will surely share. Thank you Jodi and all the lovely people who helped with tutorials, inspiration, and sponsoring.

FOR FUN

More little houses. They are starting to look alike as I am still playing out of the same scrap bag. Think I need to use that bag for some string blocks and get some fresh scraps (and I do have plenty of them) for more house building.

More ornaments stitched. I think there are enough in that box now to pull out some Christmas fabric scraps and start making these into completed ornies. Now to find my ribbon!

OH WEIGH ME

I still have to get a scale - but I know the pounds are dropping as I have had many ask me 'are you losing weight'? And, I bought some new jeans - a size smaller! I'm trying hard to eat scheduled meals - finding it most important to start the day with a healthy breakfast. Adding more protein in my diet - I really like greens and fish - eating a lot of fish!And maybe with the 'spring-like' feel, have been on a salad kick. Can't wait for those fresh salad fixin's from the garden. To add to this week, more walking. And the nice weather has helped me get outside for that. I have set time limits at the sewing machine - set that timer and get up and move. The ironing is set up across the room so I have to get up and move. And pushing that vacumm does put up a sweat more than my pedal machine.

CLOSING THOUGHT

(poems for the class room)
Robin sits in the apple tree
Singing sweetly down to me.
She tells me of her cozy nest
In the tree she likes the best.
She tells me that her robin mate
And she herself can hardly wait --
They have four blue eggs, you see,
That soon will be their family.
They'll live together in their cozy nest
In the tree that they love best.
Happy in her apple tree,
Robin sings her news to me!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Get Your Phil On

2012-02-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

Groundhog Day is a holiday celebrated on February 2 in the United States and Canada. According to folklore, if it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its Burrow on this day then spring will come early. If it is sunny, the groundhog will supposedly see its shadow and retreat Back into its Burrow, and the winter weather will continue for six more weeks. I wonder what Punxsutawney Phil at Gobblers Knob will predict for us today?

SWAPS

Some lovely spool Blocks arrived from Bobbie at Itsallaboutme. I was getting a little heavy on Blues, so these wonderful Blocks will be a welcome addition for variety. Just love the Brown textured spool.

These lovely extras came in a very special Box from Jinnie over at Lots of Fabric2. She was paired as my sender (I sent to someone different) in Cheryll's Initial Valentines Swap. Lookie see........

My pretty Valentine!! Oh, my initial done so special and Beads - yum - special threads, special stitches - so many things I love. AND it fits so lovely on my Ackfeld hanger. Oh, I know - the Easter Bunnies, my grandson loves to play with them, but they do add to the whole thing. Thank you Jinnie for such a wonderful Valentines.

GIVING AND GIFTING

I was completely floored with this lovely Bundle - Sentimental Studios' 'Summer Breeze II'!! This was sent to me as a thank you - from my SIL - for helping her with her first quilt. There was also a Bundle of various muslins (I love muslin). I told her I would only accept it if she promised to come share it and work on a project along side me. So our Summer Breeze projects are being plotted. Thank you Jeri!!

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - Annie is ready to move on the stash - comments open until Tues. Feb 5th midnight

Box #2 - currently Being shipped to Toni at Hoosiertoni

Box #3 - Barbara is also ready to move her Box - comments open until Fri. Feb 3 5pm

** just click on Annie's or Barbara's name and it will take you right to their post on the stash **

CLOSING THOUGHT

Question for Phil:

Will you, Won't you, See your shadow?
Will it, Won't it, Really matter?
Do you, Don't you, Grin to see
People Take you Seriously?

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

January NewFO

2012-01-31T05:49:00.000-08:00

I absolutely fell in love with Barbara's NewFO idea for the 2012 year - it is OK to start something new!! And with my plans for no large quilts - just a year of small fun projects - it just fit. It was 'the wind beneath my wings' and I did soar.

Marcia's scrap block challenge did stir me and I have a flimsy to quilt.

The Pleasant Home - scrap challenge resulted in this lovely Picnic Quilt (flimsy to be quilted), table mat and mug rug (done) and a Dresden Mini (done).

A self challenge - received a bag of scraps from a Quilt Guild member and set off to see how many projects I could come up with. This birdhouse mini, house/tree mini, a few note cards, and a baby quilt (in progress) - I think another mini wallhanging can be squeeked out with the scraps from the scraps! They do multiply!!

It helped me to decide to join in with the year of Schnibbles and the first one was 'Full House' - so perfect as I love house blocks. OH and I loved the year of little houses - so 31 little houses are nestled in box with a bag of scraps from the month's projects - yes, building houses from the year's scraps for another quilt.

And the Color Palette Challenge is going to give ample latitude for a new project each month. I combined this with another group that has monthly technique challenges - so my color and circle project in one.

The Bust Yo Scraps showed up - this piece will be done as a leader/ender project and is slowly growing (I noticed one section turned the wrong way). It will help to tame those 1.5" squares that I just love to save. And the Made in Cherry has been fun - working it smaller with 2" squares to stay with my year of small projects.

And of course there are the cross stitch ornaments - at least one a week - and some other mini wallhanging pieces being done.

Oh - the FMQ Challenge - good practic and can be used on the NEWFO pieces that are evolving.

January has been a productive and fun month. I look forward to what February brings. I will be linking up with Barbara at CatPatches. I hope you take a visit and see what others have done with their NewFO year.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Puzzling

2012-01-29T22:18:00.000-08:00

Quilting is a puzzle - trying to find the pieces, fit them into their correct spots, pondering the the final solution. When we quilt, do we see the whole puzzle? Do we find the right pieces? Will it fit into the correct spot? Do we start in the center? Do we look for all the same colors - the connecting colors? Do we start with the border? Ah, all in the name of creativity - it surely is puzzling!

DESIGN WALL

I played with the last bits of pieces from that little scrap bag from a quilt guild member. A double 4-patch with some left over muslin. Now to find that puzzle piece - some border fabric in that scrap tote, then maybe another border of muslin - do I add to the puzzle and use all those little pieces and bits into a scrap border to find the solution?

The next puzzle I am working on is the Made In Cherry Quilt Along. I decided to dump my puzzle box - that pre-cut barrel of 2" squares that was SO STUFFED! I sorted my puzzle pieces and found an abundance of reds. Now to decide what the background color will be - white, red, black or totally different - aqua???? Ah, it is a puzzlement.

I had to lay out all my little house pieces of the puzzle. I would like to start sashing up into 4'sies (with corner stone). So the puzzle works on with what color to go with. I know I like the idea of a brick red for the corner stones, but what for the sashing? I think from now on I will just show these once a month - or you will get sick of them.

Linking these up with Judy at PatchWork Times.

FMQ CHALLENGE

I have been very bad in keeping this together into the same 'puzzle box'. I kept practicing with drawing and found I was too small with the leaves and would just lose the path - the mind couldn't follow the puzzle - by hand or machine. So I tried larger, which was better - like a child starting with one of those 12 pieced puzzles. But I found that adding some loops and meandering helped to stay with flow. Oh, golly I cannot find that practic sandwich piece (there were 3 more sandwich) - I lost part of the puzzle. Does that happen to you?

Linking up with Sew Cal Gal.

MINUTES FOR ME

A few posts back I showed some fabric fortune cookies that I made from this tutorial found here for my quilt guild. This is the layout of all the puzzle pieces - basic start of cookie, heart traced on square and little 'quilter's fortune' on paper rolled for stuffing. They were handed out at our last meeting with a challenge to design your own 'Funny Valentine' (no bigger than 18" square). You had to use that little heart in any applique style in your piece.

Well this is the puzzle I found with all those pieces. My little heart? Why look upside-down, it is the puppy's muzzle. I chose fused, raw edge applique for this project - AND lots of 3-D embellishing. A new name tag - it's 4.5" square, my little puzzle.

Linking this up with Marcia's Minutes For Me. Yes, fun ME time with my 'Funny Valentine'.

OH MY WEIGH

My one step with Annie's OMW was to schedule regular mealtimes - made that placemat and mug rug. The next step was to build on that step. I need to add more protein in my diet, so researched high protein foods. Protein promotes tissue growth and repair, red blood cell growth and aid antibodies to resist infection, and regulate enzymes and hormones. Lima Beans, Kidney Beans, Okra, Spinach, Sweet Potato, Tomato, Eggs, Fish, Peanut Butter, Milk - pieces of my food puzzle. Fiber added in the form of high fiber cereal and whole grain bread. I thought I could use my crock pot in assisting with my dietary puzzle - fizzle, spark, and smoke - it died!! So my new crock pot. I think I need to make a pretty cover for it - don't you?

CLOSING THOUGHT

'A cat is a puzzle, for which there is no solution'
- Hazel Nicholson -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Going in Circles - Tutorial

2012-01-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

This table runner was made for the Color Palatte Challenge as well as a 'sewing curves' challenge - two challenges in one project - just have to love it. This tutorial is to show how I set-in those circles using a technique that my mother has taught for over 40 yrs. so the only source I have of origin is her. There are many other ways to sew in a circle, but I struggled - this really worked for me because I acheived true circles instead of 'eggs'.

Because this was a color challenge with Patchwork Times, I made a stratta of my chosen colors, but you can use a single piece of fabric. Determine the size circle you want/need and be sure to add at least 1-2 inches extra to give you plenty of stitch room. You can work with a square of fabric - no need to cut another circle.

I used a Kona Snow for my background and a muslin for the back (for making the circle piece only). I found the lightest weight muslin works best because you will have these two fabrics as your top - then when you assemble the piece you have your batt and backing - so you want to keep the bulk down. I was working with a 12" square for the finish and started with a 14" square for stitch take-up allowance. Place your top fabric and your muslin right sides together - pin to hold. Now easy peasy - I used a coffee can (Large can) for my template - they are 6" circles which is what I was playing with - super! And trace your circle - add a few more pins if necessary.

Now carefully stitch around on that tracing line - I set my stitch just a little smaller than my usual seam usage as this will give you a smoother turn and strength of edge. Go slow - even lift you presser foot if you need to so you can work on the line rather than 'tugging' the fabric around.

Take a snip in the center and trip that inner circle away - I left a 1/2" to give me lots of room for the next step. Clip around that circle close to the stitch line - be careful not to clip your stitching!! Once that is done - turn your piece around. This part was hard to photo because it just made a confused mess which would make you scratch your head, it is simply turning the piece inside out, you just have all open ends so it looks a little odd.

This is what you have after the turn - this is not even pressed yet, so you can see how perfect that circle comes out. If you have any lumps or oddities - flip it around again and fix that area with a few more clips. Press your piece - Press don't Iron!! We don't want to distort our wonderful work.

Now lay your accent fabric under your circle piece. Doesn't that look pretty already?

Now carefully, and a little area at a time so you don't disturb your setting - pin along the clipped seam area to hold your accent fabric in place for sewing. Don't be afraid to take your time and use lots of pins, because we don't want our accent fabric to slip and we will be stitching slowly the next step.

Now we are going to stitch just a thread to the left of our previous stitched circle line - so yes, we are going slow. By stitching to the left side, you are sure to hide that previous thread line and reduce bulk in a seam. Remember - GO SLOW!

This is the back - now you can trim away any extra accent fabric - You do NOT have to clip this like your circle as it is just a flat piece!

Pin your muslin and top fabric to hold, then square up your block. You are now ready to add your other blocks. I kept these pinned throughout just so that muslin would not slip.

OPTIONAL - I had stratta to use for more accent and I had set my cirles at various areas of each square - so needed some 'fill'. Simply cut off a corner, stitch your strip and the trim to size desired - or leave as the corner.

If just a strip - stitch the corner trim and square up that corner for finished block.

And once your piece is all assembled - quilt as desired. Hate that term, but since I had a lot of open clean space and this was a play on color - I used some matching color floss and large stitched around my circles and 'zip strips' for more design fun.

If you've had trouble with circles - here is an option. And if you try this and have questions, please don't be afraid to ask.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Cut the 'S-Craps'

2012-01-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

The tutorial for the in-set circles is being delayed until Friday as I want to get the word out on this exciting NEW project being set up by Sarah over at Confessions of a Fabric Addict. Using the newly release book by Joan Ford and published by The Taunton Press, she is taking the idea of taming those scraps using 5", 3.5", and 2" squares and the challenge of designing a block for their Ministry to use in their lovely quilts donated for those in need.

Go over to Sarah's and read the instructions, challenge info, and YES offered give aways. She needs you to comment on your confirmation and will be hosting a link up for your block(s) February 8th - COME ON - one block is so easy. So you aren't a designer - hey - you never know until you try. And there are some lovely prizes. And just a side thought from my left brain, wouldn't it be nice to send those blocks to Sarah to be used in a quilt.

So go vist Sarah, give her a sign-up, and help spread the word with your own blog post.

TRAVELING STASH WINNER

The box will be traveling on to Barbara of Cat Patches. I will be contacting her for info and promise to keep you all informed of the next move. ****Ali at A Squared is posting for Box#2 - comments close this Friday so hurry and get over there and leave your comment if interested in this box.****

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

PS - Happy Australia Day !!!!!

Off the Wall/On the Wall

2012-01-22T21:13:00.000-08:00

I have no design wall - so things get pinned to the mantel, pinned to the wall, pinned to the louver doors, almost any where. It was so time to get those last few steps into a finish so I could clear the walls - so I could put something new up!

OFF THE WALL

Little houses of a different nature - with other bits - were pinned all over - time to pull it all together.

This is my interpretation of 'Full House' Schnibbles for January. I've done enough wallhangings already, so decided to put it into a table runner. I must say, I like this fabric line for building houses - Moda's 'Coming Home' just worked well with this. And by using from a Jelly Roll, I have lots of strips left to play with something new.

I can't show all of this piece because it is for a swap and it will identify who it is for - it's a secret. This is for the Initial Heart Swap and I finally got inspired how to finish this off when I stumbled on that lovely aqua/heart fabric in one of my FQ tubs.

And in putting away some cross stitch magazines, these two fell out - not finished. So two more ornaments done for gift giving.

For the Oh Weigh Me program - Annie asked us to work 'one step' and then share it. Living alone, my most single problem is scheduled meals that I sit to a table to enjoy. So I used the little projects shared on Sew Scrap Along to make a Court House Step block placemat and scrap patch mug rug. Yes - junk food print fabrics - what better! The other side is a pretty Penn. Dutch flower print, so I can reverse them for another look. I'm hoping these will aid me in keeping my one step by having a pleasant place to dine. I will also link this up with Minutes for Me with Marcia.

ON THE WALL

Now I can put something new up. This is the project 'Bust Yo Scraps'. Cute pattern, but I am doing it up in 1.5" squares for the setting triangles and geese. I still have that in various stages as I assemble the parts as my leader/enders. Some are in a barrel, tupper ware, table, by the sewing machine, and on the ironing board. I think I need a day I just 'get it done'! I will be linking this project up with Judy - Patchwork Times.

And this mess represents how I work and play up a design - my February mini for my Ackfeld table hanger. Still in the rough stages, but for sure will be pinned around the walls until complete.

JERI'S QUILT

As promised - this is my SIL's first quilt - finished! Yes, parts of that was pinned on a wall or two at times. I did the straight line quilting and the hand sewing down of the binding - this is her baby! For her new Great Niece due on Valentines Day.

I did a test flower set (another fabric and color) to see if they were proper size - luckily the first ones hit the mark and I'll use them on some other project. I love her choice of the black/white dot with the flowers - it pops the quilt.

And I made her label it - made up some samples, gave her my pen-tex fabric pencils with some instructions, and let her play. Once she had the technique and the label chosen - done and set into the corner to catch in the binding.

And being the scrap quilter - couldn't let those extra pieces sit. So she made a matching pillow. Now she has a lovely shower gift - and yes, we are already talking next project!

200TH POST WINNER

No extra pictures (batteries about to go - last ones) we went thru the draw and photo'ed with the box ready to ship. KoCan Quilt is the winner of the box of 2.5" squares. I will be sending her a personal e-mail, also. Thank you for playing along - there will be another give away with Valentines Day.

CLOSING THOUGHT

I've been too serious lately, and I am more of a jokester person, so...

Q: What did one wall say to the other wall?
A: I'll meet you at the corner.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Traveling Stash is Ready

2012-01-20T19:57:00.000-08:00

Well after moving that poor box - it sort of dissintergrated - so I went thru things - a lot of fruits and vegie fabrics, especially fall/pumpkins.

Some odd bits, strips and parts from panels

Various florals from FQ size to yard cuts.

A few pieces of juvinile/baby panels, FQ size and cheater cloth.

Some patriotic fabric (about a yrd. of broad cloth) and pieces from a panel - not sure what fabric content it is, but not 100% cotton.

And way too many books and patterns - it's called traveling stash, not empty your library! This is why the one box had to be split, too much of this instead of fabric.

Some templates and notions.

THIS IS WHAT I CHOSE

The extreemly heavy, large, thick "Think Pink" book just to make room in the box, but I know someone who makes quilts for donation/raffle for the Susan Komen 'For A Cure' and she will put this to good use. The Mini Charmer bag pattern and little stitcher by Bareroots. The Patriotic pieces my Mom will use and removes the non-cotton from the box. All the small pieces and scraps - they will work for me in my tinies - not really useable for anything else. And all the apple prints from the fruit/vegie pile. The baggie of Sip of Summer Charms from CT. And the thread.

WHAT I AM PUTTING IN THE BOX

2 FQs of little heart prints for Valentines, and 2 FQs of spring daisies - spring is around the corner.

A Canston Village little yellow rose print on grey and yellow pin dot - 1 yrd each. (or more)

1 yrd. of 'Make Live' by Sweetwater for Moda.

A strip from a panel - 3 antique cars - great size for pillows. The black is a map of our county - if you can find Schoharie, I'll wave.

This cute owl panel from Timeles Treasure - I love bird fabric, but not seeing me using this.

This lovely panel of 'Coming Home' by Deb Strain for Moda - I had two of these????

I thought the juvenile pile needed adding to, so about 1/4 to 1/2 yrd of some cats, dogs, and paws.

And since I took all the Metler thread - replacing with various color Aurifil and a basic set of Essentials from CT.

RULES FOR ENTERING

*** this is the origin of the box ***
here

I see this box does not have the rule and guide line sheet that was with the original box, also a log sheet that everyone was to fill in with blogger info that the box passed on to. So I will be making one of those up.

1. You must be an active blogger.
2. When you receive the box, post a blog spot on it's contents, what you took and what you are putting in - in a timely manner.
3. Replace per deim - if you took 4 yrds of fabric, replace it with 4 yrds. of fabric - quilt quality fabric. AND this is a traveling stash - don't empty your library! (lets get some of these books and patterns cleared - if you take one - replace it with a FQ or two)

****AUGG - I forgot - I will post the winner on Jan 26th (Thursday)

Due to postage and customs - can only mail in the United States.

No jumping thru hoops, just leave a comment and good luck,

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

2012-01-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

I am in such gratitude to all my blogging friends. The internet certainly has opened an eye for me. A source of living when bed/house bound in recovering from that horrible accident. Now into this new venture of quilting and finding this 'thing' called blogging. Although we may have different loves of color, fabrics, styles, and techniques, we carry a bond in the threads we sew - and I say THANK YOU.

NEWFO

I had already decided to set my goals for 2012 on a smaller scale - minis, table runners, wallhangings, and some baby quilts. I was so excited in seeing this 'mini' revolution around the net - lots of fun smaller projects every where. It's in tribute to Barbara at CatPatches who came up with the idea of being OK to start NEW projects. Not that I needed an excuse, but nice to know there will be others doing the same and encouraging each along the way. Thank you Barbara.

More NEW houses. You are going to get sick of seeing these, I'm sure. I see that it has been suggested (and encouraged) to try with a larger block if the tiny 3.5" block house is too challenging. I plan to mix mine up with different sizes. I think next week I will do some 6.5" houses - then the bits can be saved to work into the smaller ones. And look closely - I laughed because I didn't see it until I put it in photo shop to fix the color. One of these houses is not like the others. It is now fixed.

This new project is covering two challenges - the Color Pallette Challenge and a Circle Challenge. Just a peek because it will be posted later this month and I have worked up a tutorial on how I sewed those inset circles. A little bit of hand quilting left, then attach the binding which I can hand sew when my SIL comes down to finish up her pillow. Oh, I am thankful that I have a new sewing partner and it has been so, sew fun playing with fabric with her - I promise to show the quilt and pillow when she has everything done.

And thank you to KatieQ for putting those wonderful buttons on your side bar. I have two new buttons for you to scope out, maybe even inspire. Scrap Attack - we all want to beat those scraps down. And, Bust Yo Scraps - these snowball blocks are for this project. Yes, another new and I am making a smaller version using 1.5" squares - that barrel is FULL. This cute pattern should definitely tame them. And I am working them up as my leader/enders.

This is block #9 for the FQ Star Quilt Along - not really new and it will be the only 'large' quilt this year. But I am re-cycling shirts for these blocks - so that makes an 'oldfo' into a 'newfo' - doesn't it?

Not really quilting, but if we keep ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually fit, we certainly can enjoy this venture better. I had seen Annie's post on this and was 'pondering' - then I was seeing the support and thankfulness for this new venture. So I am now working toward a healthier me. First goal being to eat scheduled meals. Being alone, I don't take the time to have regular meals that you sit to the table to. Maybe a new placemat just for ME will help remind me to sit and eat. And since my two grandsons have been diagnosed with dairy and gluton allergies, I think I need to evaluate my own dietary and look into gluton-free. And I think I need to add more protein in my diet. I have a floor pedal machine which can also be used on the table for your arms - so the everyday exercise has always been there - it got me out of a hospital bed and wheel chair.

THANKFUL WINNINGS

Some of you may remember - I won Michelle's original 12 of Hearts. I get to keep hers, so now I can gift mine on. I loved doing this BOM and look forward to her new BOM with Hannah & Harrington Bunny. Thank You Shell - for the give away and for the awesome free blocks.

This lovely bundle I received from Jewel at IntrepidThread. A Stitch in Color - she has the whole line just in stock and you can see it on her blog in much better color than from my limpy, wimpy camera. Thank you sweetie!

Although these weren't from a give away - these lovely spool blocks are from various participants in the Australian 6" Block Swap. They feel like winning a give away when they arrive in the mail. A few I made myself, but by the end of this year, with more swap mates' blocks and more of mine - I will have enough for a special quilt that will be my NEW UFO finish for 2013. Thank you to all you lovely ladies!

And I won Box #3 from Miki and it arrived today. Oh my how beat up this poor VERY HEAVY box is - it was not handled too gently on it's travels here. I won't open this until Friday because of other committments. Then I will do a photo shoot of contents, what I pulled, and what I will put in for the next give away and post on Saturday. I would like to move the box on before the end of the month. (Box#1 is on to Annie and Box #2 is still not posted by Ali)

CLOSING THOUGHT

Sewingy Yours,
Sharon

Scrappy Quilt Challenge

2012-01-16T22:38:00.000-08:00

I participated in Marcia's Scrappy Quilt Challenge using her Denim Block Pattern Tutorial. You still have time to make a small item to enter (she's drawing for a free quilting of your piece) as she is leaving the link up from Jan 17 - 23. Bits and pieces of progress were in some of my past posts, but here it is fully mapped out in it's growth.

First one of my many stash storage items was selected. Well, I don't stress over that one when I'm 'scrappin' - just pulled a drawer - and I'll see what treasures will grab my attention.

Here was my selection to start with. I found a few pieces of an old (2005) Alexander Henry fabric - little garden fairies. They would be my focal and base to play off of. And there were just enough to get some odd size fussy cuts of the various fairies and birds.

My first strip, some left over Moda of Fig Tree - glad to use that Jelly Roll Strip up.

I somehow lost the photo of the second strip, so this shows both the second and third strip added. The second strip was using some more left over Jelly Roll strips - Arboretum I believe. And the third strip was left ever scraps of green from prior projects.

The fourth strip was various burgandies to bring out some of the 'blush' that was in the fairies fabric and to add a little zing to it.

I then laid out those 'base' blocks and started to fill with bits more of Moda - Strawberry Field, some daisy print in pink/burgandy, and bits of the base blocks' fabrics. Once happy, they were added to my blocks.

This looks similar to the last photo, but shows all rows/columns sewn together - it really needs something to hold it all together, so back to the pile to look for a final border.

I had just enough of the lighter green which is the same as the darker used on the block fillers. I had to piece a few bits to get it all to work. I think there was an 1" x 2.5" piece left - phew!!!!! But that got a happy dance, as now that scrap is out of that drawer with so many and now a quilt. It measures 35" square and will make a nice table cloth for my small kitchen table come spring.

I hope I have inspired you to try even a small project - a pot holder, table topper - it can be done in an afternoon! And please visit Marcia and see some of the participants thru the week as they link up.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

"Wintarmanuth"

2012-01-15T21:54:00.000-08:00

January has been called the 'wolf month' - days of old when it got cold and heavy snows forced the wolf into villages looking for food. Yes, we have seen the wolf in our yard. Yes, we have seen snow - sparse. Yes, we are seeing cold. We were certainly spoiled with unseasonally mild weather right up until a few days ago - then BOOM - the winter wolf is here!

MINUTES FOR ME

I don't DO cold/snow, so being house bound makes me busy inside. I grabbed my ME MINUTES by playing early in the morning with that bag of scraps a quilt guild member gave me. My afternoons were with my SIL working on her quilt. This birdhouse mini evolved - 6" x 15" and I am still looking for my lovely handpainted bird buttons to add. Maybe even a tassle on the end.

Next came this little house quilt - 8" x 9". I love putting these little scenes together - and being challenged with just 'what's on the table' is fun for me.

And a few note cards came about. Just some small paperpieced blocks, light fuse to card stock and a zig-zag edge. I have some 4" x4" envelopes from the office supply store that I can use, or I can save them to put in with one of my year's swaps with a little note for swapmate. I need to make more of these for sure.

There are more scraps to play with from that bag and a few minis are in progress to share later.

My evening time for me was to work up another cross stitch ornament.

And I made up enough houses for a few days - breathing room. I prefer to do a few at a time rather than one-a-day. Actually, I could spend a whole day playing with these, so I have to set the kitchen timer to remind myself - just a few Sharon!

And since my SIL was working on her binding, I thought it was time to put the binding on my 12 Days of Christmas quilt. Now to get the other one finished.

DESIGN WALL

And I played a little with this month's Schnibble's pattern - Full House - and got parts of my houses done. I am using Moda's 'Coming Home' and probably will make a table runner with a single house mini.

It has been enjoyable to browse some of my blogging friends who are into the 'mini' zone right now too. Some wonderful doll quilts, mini quilts, mini hangers - try a little project. The quick finish is so refreshing as well as rewarding. Don't like to handle small pieces? Make a single favorite block and do it up as a mini.

Traveling Stash

Box #1 - Karen received her box Saturday and has comments open only until Monday (16th) night - so you better hurry over and get your comment in for this box.

Box #2 - Ali has yet to post stash movement - I had received word it would be last week so I don't know what's up with this box. I don't dare send another e-mail, but you guys can.

Box #3 - Miki has sent the box on to ME, so when it arrives I will be sure to take quick inventory, pick out my delights, already with replacements, and will be sure to let you all know when it's up for grabs.

GIVE AWAY TIME

This is my 200th post - gosh I got gabby! Since there are so many 'scrap' challenges right now, I thought I would offer up goodies from one of my pre-cut barrels again. This time it is 2.5" squares. AND, that is a plastic shoe box - I did not count how many are in there - and more may be added before this goes out. This is my year of 'small projects' so these are my postage stamp quilt supply and they need a home. You can comment on any of the post, but please be sure you let me know you want to be 'thrown into the hat' for the squares. I will draw the winner next Monday - 23rd - be sure I have a way of reaching you as I will make every effort to personally contacting the winner as well as posting it.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Wolf Song:
Speak to the moon, scream to the sky, sing your beautiful song.
Let the chorus ring as high as the bird flies.
Let the message echo clear, your freedom song.
You tell the world that you are yours alone.
- Zammy -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

**Side Note** I have several blogs I follow that I cannot get into the last couple of days - I am not ignoring you, but get a 'white screen' when trying to get into your blog. I see some bloggers are having issues with comments again, too. I know blogger is dropping non-blogers from the 'follow' thing - I really don't understand it all - trying to get information that even I can understand to pass on to all of you correctly. I miss: Quilt Time, MamaSpark, One More Quilt, Quilt Monster in My Closet, Moose Stash Quilting, Love,Laugh,Quilt, and Jane's Fabric

I hope I don't lose more!!!

A Bit of Maxine in Us All

2012-01-11T21:19:00.000-08:00

I have done just bits of sewing - nothing major to show. Monday was groceries and a trip to the LQS with my SIL. I have turned over my space, machine, and time to help her make her first quilt. We shopped my stash first and then got the fill-ins.

This is the quilt she is making - in a mix of purples, pinks, greens, flowers, stripes, dots, butterflies - we pulled charms from 3 different packs. And a dark purple for border with pretty lilac for back. And she decided to make the flowers in black dot - using same for binding. We changed it up to a 12 block center for a more rectangular quilt - adjusted measurements. The top is done, basted out, and ready for quilting - hopefully she will let me share her and it on the blog - she is doing such a super job - and more importantly, having FUN.

I'm sure I am missing some things here, but the beginning of the year has been a lucky one. Lots of pattern wins and some FQs sent by a friend as an unexpected 'thank you'. It all started with Shell's lovely 12 of Hearts win and has been followed since. I even have Traveling Stash Box #3 coming from Miki - how fun!

I received this baggy of scraps from a fellow member of our quilt guild - I am challenging myself to see what and how many little things I can make from this , so I can show&tell the next meeting. Just some fun - one item has already been finished, but you will have to wait till the pile is used up to see what evolved.

Until I am finished helping my SIL, I will be on a slow mode (but enjoying seeing her excitement)- to be sure, I will grab a few minutes for myself. BUT I would like to share another blogger's exciting work in MINIS - just love them so and got her permission to link her up. Please visit Wilma at Wilma's World and be inspired to give some mini quilts a try.

This is just one of Wilma's beautiful pieces. So please go visit and leave her a comment.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Slow me down Lord
Ease the pounding of my heart
by the quieting of my mind.

Steady my hurried pace
with a vision of the eternal march of time.
Give me amid the confusion of the day,
the calmness of the eternal hills.

Break the tension of my nerves and muscles
with the soothing music of the singing streams
that live in my memory.

Help me to know the magical restoring power of sleep.

Teach me the art of taking MINUTE vacations,
Of slowing down to look at a flower,
to chat with a friend, to pat a dog,
to read a few lines of a good book.

Slow me down Lord
and inspire me to send my roots
deep into the soil of life's enduring values
that I may grow toward the stars of my greater destiny.
- ANON -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Bits of Time

2012-01-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

I had a delightful 'visiting time' this weekend. On Saturday my daughter and the grandbabies came out to spend some time. As well as my oldest boy (mom's laundry room got a work out). And Sunday my youngest son stopped in to spend some time - my fridge got cleaned out (by his eating). So I had to spend bits of time for sewing. AND a visit from one of my followers - hi Denise - who spent some time in our shop.

The finished flimsy for Marcia's Scrap Challenge. I know she is offer ing a free quilting with her challenge winner, but I think I will use this as one of my projects for the FMQ Challenge and do this up myself.

Some minutes here and there and these little houses got built. I see in reading some blogs (and being personally e-mailed) that people are having trouble with this pattern. Tiny sometimes doesn't suit people - but the pdf offered is not true to size. It is a smidge too small and the seam allowances are only an 1/8". You can try to re-size, I just leave over-lap of fabric and trim to the needed size and they are coming out fine. Also, I hear a problem with getting them 'flat' - a damp pressing cloth and hot iron will smoosh those babies down!

A little time stolen to do up this cross stitch ornie. These are only 3.5" squares, so the stitch space is small making those work up fast. Soon I will have enough to do a bunch up into the final ornament with stuffing, backing, and hanger. I prefer to use my time to assembly line that task.

I love my early mornings - time for that first cup of coffee and the sun rising to the new day. It gets the juices going to spend some real quality time on a project. So I used it to assemble all those blocks into the flimsy for the Scrap Along Challenge. I'm thinking at least two borders for this, and then it's ready for quilting. **Linking up with Judy's Monday 'Wall'.

And these two made me change my time use plans. Moe camped out on one mini quilt and Bella is on the other - that's when I stitched the ornament. Then some paperwork and then to bed myself.

The 12 Days of Christmas Sampler done in the Blueberry Crumb Cake left over charms. I only 'out-of-order' assembled and a muslin skinny border, but I have time to change my mind because.......

I love the sashed look done with the bright sampler. How different the look between the two!

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - is moving on to Karen's Sewing Room

Box #2 - Ali should announce this week for comments. She also is hosting the Tangerine Tango Challenge (button on side bar)

Box #3 - Miki has comments open to end of the 10th - so hurry and pop over for a chance. She also has a cool blog!

I have to remember to make some time to post some of my Water Dragon New Year luck with you all - a lot of winnings and surprises already for 2012. And my 200th post is coming up soon - so you all know that means a give away is in the making.

CLOSING THOUGHT

I get a lot of comments about how do I manage to get so much done. I usually only have my furry friends to interfer with my time. BUT, time is a choice - use bits of time to acheive those big goals.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Building More Blocks

2012-01-05T21:03:00.000-08:00

My grandsons love playing blocks as much as I do. I get to build, they get to play. Well, I guess I get to play too!

I've added more to my 'building blocks' for Marcia's scrap challange. You have until Jan. 17th to get your project finished to enter for a free quilting. It can even be a pot holder, mug rug, table runner - largest is baby quilt. And since it's scrap play, you could even enter it into the Scrap Along.

A couple more little house blocks. Done with whimsy - fish and cats. When I finish a project, I am putting my scraps into a baggy and that's my play material for these. I like to chain piece these, so I work 2 blocks every other day to equal the 'block a day'. These will be linked up with Marcia's Minutes for Me fun.

I know - it is a strip not a block, but this is for the Color Pallette Challenge (and a circle challenge). This is being used in building some new blocks. Also, using a new technique learned (from my MOM) and I have been documenting so I can share with you all.

The 12 Days of Christmas sampler blocks are all done. I think I will sew these together with 2 skinny borders as a finish. I think everyone has enjoyed these little treasures - a quick bit of play with a charming finish.

See - told ya, did a second one up of this cute little pattern. These I think are left over charms from Hoopla. This one I think I will sash with white to break up all that bright. And then a scrappy binding with the rest of those charms to use them up. Linking up with Sarah's Whoop Whoop.

Progress on the Scrap Along quilt. I have all the blocks pieced and now need floor space to start laying them out so the top (flimsy) can be done. This is a perfect SQUARED UP project - just one 4.5" block with two 2.5" blocks - easy peasy and soooooo quick. And after my practic FMQ leaves are a little better - I will use that on quilting this one up.

Remember I set a goal to get one ornament a week done. Love these Santas. I think I need to add some 'Ho Ho Ho's' around them.

So a lot of the challenges and block/quilt alongs I am doing are in great building progress - some of them doing double duty - love when you can 'kill two birds with one stone' - so to speak. And I am enjoying my NEWFO for the year already.

CLOSING THOUGHT

'Ideas are the building blocks of ideas'
- Jason Zebehaty -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Sew Scrap Along

2012-01-03T20:21:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed a lot of new buttons on my side bar. I may not be doing all those projects, but like to offer them as a 'window' into some fun things going on that may interest you. But this one does peek my interest. I took part in the Sew Scrap Along last year and made many fun projects.

It just happened that I had just pulled this pile of plaids and camping fabrics from a bin - scratching my head what to do with them. AND ta-dah, Nannette is the first guest at Pleasant Home with the perfect project for these fabrics.

So I have all my squares cut and ready for some power sewing tomorrow. Check into Pleasant Home as there will be various guests with some scrap projects and tutorials that just might inspire you to 'Scrap Along'.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Year of the Dragon

2012-01-01T21:49:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. In China, it is known as "Spring Festival," , owing to the difference between Western and traditional Chinese methods for computing the seasons. The festival begins on the first day of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar and ends with Lantern Festival which is on the 15th day. Chinese New Year's Eve, a day where Chinese families gather for their annual reunion dinner, is known as "Eve of the Passing Year."

The Dragon - one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar, and the only animal that is legendary. The Year of the Dragon is associated with the earthly branch symbol --- Wood - Fire - Earth - Metal - Water . 2012 is the year of the Water Dragon. In Chinese element theory, water produces wood, which signifies growth and is the natural element of the dragon. The dragon governs east/southeast, wealth accumulation & the hours of 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. Associated with thunder, lightning and arousal, the Water Dragon personifies creativity at its best. The energetic high point of the year is the Dragon Moon, which is May 20.

I made fabric fortune cookies for our next quilt guild meeting program. There are several tutorials out there, but this is the one I used and it is so easy. We will be stuffing them with some 'items' for the next challenge. I can't share that, as some guild members read my bog! So, you will have to wait for later in the month.

And I played a little with those tiny houses. Yes, I mixed things up a little but maybe I will leave them. Not everyone's house is the same and I do have some other small house block patterns, so I may play with more than one small house - even thinking of using a NYBeauty block for the center instead of the large house.

These blue beauties came from the 'swap mama' herself. Sue was my partner for December in the 6" Australian Block Swap. I think another year will give me lots of pretty blocks to mix with mine to make for a super special spool quilt.

Like so many of you, my few Christmas decorations have been packed away for another year. A new kitchen tablecloth with snowmen with the January mini on the Ackfeld Wire frame sets off a new look. It's been unseasonably warm and only a dusting of snow so far. BUT, it's the Northeast and you know it is going to come.

The next block in the Blogger's Block of the Month. I am just playing out of my pre-cut scrap barrels with this one. I don't do brights, solids, more modern - but that's where this one is going and I like it. If you look close, you may be able to make out the black fabric is the map of Manhattan - some scraps given to me by one of our students. I think she picked it up when the guild went to the Red/White show in NYC.

A little more progress on the scrap challenge with Marcia - remember, this is about trying a new technique not about finishing or size. A mug rug will do. Although I'm thinking mine will be a crib quilt.

This is the 12 Days of Christmas mini. Using the left over Blueberry Crumb Cake charms and just loving this. These are quick and easy blocks and they work up so fast, they wet my appetite for more sewing. I could kick myself, one of my followers (wave your hand) said she was doing two of these - one for herself and one for a gift - what a wonderful idea. I may just have to make one up in some brights for my daughter.

TRAVELING STASH

Box#1 - Becky is ready to move the stash on - she has just posted (click on her name to take you there) and will hold comments open until Jan. 7th.

Box#2 - Ali will be posting the move next week, so I will remember to update you all

Box#3 - Barbara is announcing winner today - Miki Willa is the new home!

CLOSING THOUGHT

I don't make resolutions, I've done the 'word' thing, and in the 'winter' of my life I don't do lists of changes. In having Irene thru a curve ball into our community, I have learned even more to take each day as it comes, make the best of it, and charish what you have. I will keep my Gr.Gran's 'extend both hands' to those in need as our community continues to try and recover. Hopefully with the year of the Water Dragon - luck, prosperity, creativity, and harmony will flow.

It’s very sad that Dragons are extinct,
Just a Myth or a Fairy-Tale,
Kept alive only with pen and ink.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Looking Forward To . . .

2011-12-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve says goodbye to the old year and hello to the new one. Most people hope that the incoming year includes more blessings and bounty than the previous year and that negative emotions, bad luck and old habits will remain behind when the calendar page flips over. Various traditions, customs and superstitions accompany New Year's Eve:

Many people create resolutions for the coming new year - less than 50 percent keep them for six months. Sharing a kiss at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve assures that you will receive lots of affection in the new year . Various New Year's Eve traditions revolve around preventing bad luck and seeding good luck into the new year - break dishes, wearing red or polka dots, burning paper and wood scarecrows, remembering the dead, open up the doors and windows just before midnight and sweep out the old, letting the new blow in, and singing the song "Auld Lang Syne" following the stroke of midnight. And as old as time - fireworks!

BRING ON THE NEW

You have to check out Barbara's Challenge at CatPatches as I think this is so going to be fun - starting NEW UFOs! And it's OK!! It fit's in my plans for 2012 - lots of fun new small projects, some with new techniques to learn - like Shell's Hannah & Harrington BOM - working with wool applique will be new and fun for me.

I want to do a monthly mini for my new Ackfeld Wire table stand - a lot of projects will be tied into these minis. I got a little bored and already have my January mini ready. You may have noticed the new buttons - Little Houses here a really cool site, too. And the Mini Sampler at Temecula Quilt Co. with simple little squares is easy peasy.

And check the button for Marcia's Scrap Challenge. I went thru my one scrap drawer and pulled my fabrics to play with. And the Color Pallette Challenge should be a lot of fun to tie into all this along with the Free Motion Quilting.

I want to make at least an ornament a week to plan ahead for a future swap as well as gifts - and as part of Sue's Christmas Quilt Along monthly fun (hostess for July). Since my sewing things were packed away for the Holiday, I spent time starting a few. And I want to continue with my block swaps and Cheryll's wonderful Season and specialty swaps. Oh, and the Jelly Roll fun - have my JRs and even some Charms ready to play with (loved those sales).

And there are already plans in the works for May For Me in 2012. For my new followers, you may want to peek back into May 2011's posts for an idea - I celebrate my birthday all month long!! But, something new is in the works for you all to have fun with - we (yes, there is more than me in this mix of fun) hope to release details in February, tease!!! AND really, who knows what other fun activities bloggers, quilt magazines, sponsors, and the whole net-working source will have to offer us in 2012 - I'm excited!

NEW YEAR'S BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

I haven't had a recipe in a while - so sharing one of our New Year's brunch favorites - SCRAMBLED EGG NESTS **linking up with Marcia's Minutes for Me**

Ingredients:
1 (3 1/2-cup) bag frozen shredded potatoes, defrosted
vegetable oil or butter
salt
pepper
6 eggs
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup finely diced onions
1/3 cup finely diced bell peppers
3/4 cup diced cooked breakfast sausage
Shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions:
Pre-heat the oven to 400°. In a large bowl, toss together the potatoes, 1/4 cup of the oil or butter, salt, and pepper. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the potato mixture into each cup of a 12-serving muffin tin. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each cup, then bake until golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove the nests from the oven and allow them to cool.

While Nests are cooling, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add a little oil or butter to a large nonstick saute pan over medium-high heat. Stir in the onions and peppers to the pan and saute until both are soft and the onions are slightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the sausage and cook until heated through. Add the egg mixture and stir until the eggs have set and small curds have formed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove the potato nests from the muffin tin and place them on an ovenproof platter or cookie sheet. Fill each cup with some of the egg mixture, top with a sprinkling of the cheese, and place the nests in a 350° oven until the cheese is melted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm.

Alternatives:
Mushrooms, baby peas, cilantro, capers, bacon crisps, or a cheese blend instead of cheddar. Potato mixture can be spread into a pie dish or baking pan instead of the individual nests. Then add your scrambled egg/extras.

CLOSING THOUGHT

We've Holidays and happy days, and memory days galore;
And when we've toasted every one, I offer just one more.
So let us lift our glasses high, and drink a silent toast;
To the day, deep buried in each heart that each one loves the most.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Wishes

2011-12-20T21:16:00.000-08:00

I will be guest blogging over at Sew We Quilt tomorrow - Dec 22. I wish you all will pop in and give a wave. Some other wishes......

...have been filled. This is our local Elementary School gym. Filled with donated items for 'Adopt a Family' for the Holiday Wishes project. I am so impressed with the giving of this community that has suffered so from Irene. These were handed out during a free 'Family Portrait' day at school.

And my wish to play with my grandson with our Christmas Village (entry in SewCalGal's Holiday Quilt Show) project wallhanging was fullfilled. A few additions to the Bakery Block when he visited last. Linking up with Marcia's Minutes for Me and Sarah's Whoop,Whoop.

And my sewing machine was wishing I would come play with her. So I did today with the new block for the Fat Quarter Star Quilt Along. This is a template pieced block - don't think the templates print out to size correctly and a lot of bias edges made this a stinker of a block.

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - is heading to Becky at The Quilting BookLady

Box #2 - is heading to Ali at A Squared

Box #3 - being given away at Linda's Stray Stitches and comments close 8pm on Dec 22.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Unless there is something urgently important to report, I will be 'blog absent' until after the Holidays. So here is wishing:

Christmas wishes tried and true
I'm sending now, just for you...
a little love, a little cheer,
and wishes for a great New Year!
Hope Santa brings you gifts galore
with more surprises still in store.
May all your Christmas dreams come true
and may God's blessings be yours too!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

We're Relaxing

2011-12-18T21:09:00.000-08:00

1970 - We discovered 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town' holiday show'. And the '70s brought us the new mini lights for decorating our tree. In 1973 - brought us the first Hallmark Ornaments. 1983 - their first musical ornament and in 1984 first their first lighted and animated ornament. And the Halmark Channel was born - offering many wonderful seasonal movies, most needing a tissue box or two. 1990 - Fiber Optic trees and pre-lit trees and 1992 - Muppet Christmas Carol (first production after the death of the Muppet founder)

Moe likes chillin' amongst the presents.

Bella has opted for a more comfy spot.

And this is all I have been working on as everything else is picked up. So we are just all 'vegging' and enjoying the season. Snow is on it's way, you can smell it in the air.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

The Winner Is...

2011-12-18T06:59:00.000-08:00

OK, I know you are all waiting, so went next door and asked my Mom to do the drawing for me.

She's picked one out and starting to open!!!!

MONICA of Diary of a Quilt Maven. I will be sending her a quick e-mail for info.

Thank you All,
Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Quilt Gallery Blog Hop Party Finale

2011-12-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank all my visitors and the lovely comments left. Also, a huge welcome to all the new followers, look forward to your future visits. All entries were hand written on 2.5" x 3" cardstock as they came in - blogger is known to mess with you at the worse times and I didn't want to lose anyone.

Then those wonders were folded twice and a bit of a stir.

Then they were scooped into a pretty Christmas Bag and given a shake. BUT WAIT - my SIL wanted to pull the winner. So you will have to wait for her around 10ish (AM) - good luck to all.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Reynolds Wrap Christmas

2011-12-15T20:54:00.000-08:00

1955 - Disneyland’s first Christmas Light Parade on Main Street and the incentive of the 'overly' decorated houses and lawns to come. In 1958 the aluminum tree was invented/marketed. The first aluminum trees could not be illuminated. Fire safety concerns prevented lights from being strung through the tree's branches; draping electric lights through an aluminum tree could cause a short circuit. The common method of illumination was a floor-based "color wheel" which was placed under the tree. Sometimes this spectacle was enhanced by a rotating Christmas tree stand. (I hated these)And the beginning of Reynold's Wrap commercials during holiday shows, featuring many uses of the product - from baking for the season to decorations to cleaning and hardware uses.

The 60's brought the era of Kraft commercials during holiday shows. Remember those? In late 1960 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' arrived. In
1965 it was 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'. And the Aluminum and artificial trees became popular due to the portrayal of 'Charlie's Tree' In 1969 it was 'Frosty the Snowman'. Gosh, these are still popular today.

MINUTES FOR ME

This has been my ME time - I bought myself EQ7 back in May as my birthday gift and only JUST loaded it. Oh, this may be beyond me. But now is a good time to read the manual while playing, view the tutorials, and practic the lessons. This is something I really need as I scratch notes and doodle sketches on almost any little bit of paper - AND then lose them! I started a notebook - made a pretty cover for it, too. BUT then everything started to go into it - and my handwriting is so horrible, that sometimes I can't read what I wrote!

** IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE BLOG HOP GIVE AWAY - GO HERE **

SANTA SACK SWAP ONE

I have been very good - putting my received goodies into this beautiful bag with no peeking - some squishing, but no peeking. It was so stuffed. And today we are sharing our wonderful gifts and linking up with host MaMa Cheryl at Gone Stitchin'. My partner was Cheryl at Polkadots and rickrack - HI CHERYLs!!

First thing I opened was this adorable Halloween table runner. Oh, I couldn't have peeked - there was so much tape, heavy tape and heavy paper, oh my! I don't have any Halloween decor (the Ghastlies moved on to another home)so this is special.

And this is the back ! How cute this side is too - but hon, where is your label and/or signature?? My SIL helped with the unwrapping and was my holder. She was just as excited as me as she picks up my mail and saw all these packages go into that sack.

And dancing in joy - look at this whimsy! Just love these reindeer - those eyes just crack me up. My tables are covered with candle mats from other swaps, so this is hanging across the fireplace just under my stitched banner. Love it!

A wonderful checked kitchen towel with cute snow globe applique and rick rack trim. Already hanging on my oven front.

So this doesn't get photo heavy, I bundled up the smaller items. I collect piggies - look at that calendar with a cute little purse pocket notepad, SQUEEL!! Oh, the scissors - now I could have just gotten these and been so happy. I have wanted these, thank you Cheryl. A very pretty magnetic scissor keep and some small stitcheries. Great for my 2012 year of minis. A microwave potato bag - super. And a snap bag - oops, there was a tin of 'Dots' finger pads in there and I forgot to pull out for photo. And there's more!!

A mug rug with HO-HO santa mug, so cute. A beautifully made journal. A 2012 pocket calendar, need this badly for Quilt Guild and booking shows. And a hysterical book "Senior Moments" - little poems, jokes, quotes and witticism. I may need to share some of these in my closing thought segment.

A lovely red leather needle case, pin tin, heart pin/needle/project keep, and some little embroidery patterns.

Ta-Da - open them and just too much. The red case has a magnetic section to hold your needles and they are tiny needles - and other compartments. Love the turquoise blue pin heads in that little dot tin. And the heart keep opens into various pockets, bands and sections, just lovely. I am going to have to keep a close eye on this as I know it will 'travel' away.

Again, thank you Host MaMa Cheryl and Swap Partner Cheryl, you made a Merry and Bright Christmas for me.

CLOSING THOUGHT

C for the carolers, happy and gay,
H for the holly and Santa's red hat,
R for the reindeer, leaping the roofs.
I for the ice on snow-covered hills,
S for the stockings that Santa Claus stuffs,
T for the toys, the tinsel, the tree,
M for the mistletoe. Watch where it hangs!
A for the animals, out in the stable,
S for the sensing, the necessity of love.
- from Christmas Poems for Kids - ANON -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

PS - HELLO AND WELCOME TO THE NEW FOLLOWERS

Jack Frost Nipping

2011-12-13T21:29:00.000-08:00

In 1940 flocking was introduced. What is a flocked Christmas tree you ask? Well a flocked Christmas tree has artificial snow applied to it. Either an artificial or a live Christmas tree can be made into a flocked Christmas tree. Do you remember the home Flocking Kits? You could apply flocking with your vacumm - problem was it usually was everywhere - I can remember my Dad trying this when a child. The tree was removed, the house scrubbed and a new tree was had - not a happy time.

It took several years to perfect and many patents, but NOMA company finally introduced the popular bubble lights in 1946. I can remember my grandparents' wonderful bubble lights and many delicate glass blown ornaments from Germany. I can also remember how rare (and expensive at the time) tinsel was, and removing it carefully from the tree to be saved for the next year.

**IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE BLOG HOP GIVE AWAY - GO HERE**

And the last of the ornaments have arrived from Tonya's ornament swap. From Jill, Sherry, and Evielynne, thank you dear ladies! I certainly will be looking forward to participating next year.

I finished all the little stitcheries fromPaula Stoddard's PacificPatchWork. The floss is a verigated grey,brown,purple so I need to think on the fabric to use for sashing/borders. This will go on my 2012 mini list.

I loved how the BlueBerry Crumb Cake charms arrived just as the last 12 of Hearts block came out on Michelle's RaspBerry Rabbits Blog. This is ready to sandwich up, quilt, bind and ready for the new year. Yeah, my Easter banner mini is done!

Look at all the goodies from my partner, Della, in the Santa Sack SwapII. My, oh, my!! I don't know if there is a specific day we are to open these - if not, these are my Christmas Eve gifts to open. Thank you Della. The 15th we get to open our Santa Sack SwapI gifts and I will share that.

SOMETHING NEW

There is a new button on my side bar for Marcia's new scrap challange using her 'denim block' tutorial construction. You have until Jan 17th to post on her link up and she is giving a 'free' quilting of your item as a prize. Check this out for all the rules - scrappy happy play, I'm in!

CLOSING THOUGHT

JACK FROST
Someone painted pictures on my window pane last night;
Willow trees with trailing boughs and flowers, frosty white;
And lovely crystal butterflies.
But when the morning sun touched them with it’s
Golden blaze, they vanished one by one.
- Helen Bayley Davis

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

The Goose is Getting Fat

2011-12-11T23:48:00.000-08:00

The first artificial Christmas trees were developed in Germany in the nineteenth century, when deforestation was a problem. They were tabletop trees, made from goose feathers that were dyed green. The feathers were wound onto small sticks that were then inserted into a larger stick which functioned like a tree trunk. These trees appeared in the U.S. in 1913, when they were offered through the Sears-Roebuck catalog. These little trees are highly valued by antiques collectors today.

The Addis Brush Company developed an artificial tree in the 1930s, using the same machinery used to produce toilet brushes. These trees had branches made from twisted wires with needles of pig bristles dyed green. These small branches were twisted together to make larger branches, which were inserted into a center pole. The branches were color-coded for easy assembly.

** IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY - GO HERE**

CHRISTMAS QUILT ALONG

I was vending at a show the weekend of linking up with our finishes with the Christmas Quilt Along, so posting now. I found Sue's quilt along in June (started in Feb.) and quickly caught up with the Star quilt being offered. The once a month (second Saturday)project is very doable and I met some lovely new bloggers. Even got one of Sue's first book out (signed, yeah) 'Pick Four'.

From June to July I worked on the blocks and in August I finished into a flimsy (quilt top). I want this done by my longarmer who won't be available until January, so this is for next Christmas. All fabric was from my stash - even my backing is a piece I had.

During this time I, also, worked on this stitchery. It is actually finished with more detail and fabric framed - but moved on to it's new home as a gift and I didn't take a photo of the finished piece.

And for those who have followed me for some time, know that I did a lot of charity quilts in Sept and Oct. Our community - our valley - was devastated by 'Irene'. I assisted with our LQS to establish 'Quilts for Flood Victims' and so many of you sent on quilts as part of '100 Quilts For Kids'. I volunteered as a 'finisher' and enjoyed quilting off so many beautiful quilt tops donated. Over 200 quilts were personally delivered to those in need, especially to the children.

In October I also worked on the blocks for 'Gift Boxes' and now have this flimsy waiting on being longarmed. Although I am taking the Free Motion Quilting Challenge next year - maybe this quilt can be one of my projects? I do FMQ on small quilts - large ones are a physical challenge, but would love to master one.

And November was a lot of small projects. Getting gifts ready for the Senior Home, Community events, and personal gifts. I also spent the month cleaning and organizing.

I have already planned to participate again next year and the monthly schedule of hosts is prepared (I have July), so you know you are all going to hear about it here!

REMINDERS

That Holiday Spirit starts today (see button)
Sew We Quilt - month of small projects (see button)
Quilt Gallery Blog Hop (see button)
Sew MaMa Sew here Blog Hop

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - GrowingStitches comments open until Dec 13th

Box #2 - On it's way to Ali at Asquared

Box #3 - On it's way to Linda at StrayStitches

CLOSING THOUGHT

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat
Please put a penny in the old man's hat
If you haven't got a penny, a ha'penny will do
If you haven't got a ha'penny, then God bless you!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Lighting the Tree

2011-12-11T00:39:00.000-08:00

By the 1870's, Glass ornaments were being imported into Britain from Lauscha, in Thuringia. It became a status symbol to have glass ornaments on the tree, the more one had, the better ones status! Still many home-made things were seen. They were imported into America around 1880, where they were sold through stores such as FW Woolworth. They were quickly followed by American patents for electric lights (1882), and metal hooks for safer hanging of decorations onto the trees (1892)

**QUILT GALLERY GIVE AWAY FOUND HERE**

OCCUPY YOUR SEWING ROOM

I enjoyed taking part in Barbara's 'occupy' project. It really helped in getting those final projects done and concentrate on sticking to it. Did you OCCUPY your room?

Dec 3rd I quilted very lightly this photo memory quilt made by my daughter for her MIL. And, did some serious house cleaning.

Dec 4th I did a lot of organization of patterns and books that had piled and collected. Dec 5th I finished my Clover & Violet tote along with some blocks in other quilt alongs and some eye glass cases.

Dec 6th I worked on some odd blocks I had found during that cleaning and reorganizing. These will be donated.

Dec 7th I set my mind to finishing my Stitch Along Christmas banner and hung it on my mantel. A few other stitchery pieces were worked on that day.

Dec 8th I made some pillow cases for my Quilt Guild - they will be collected at our next meeting and donated to local Christmas Needs Charity Fund. On the 9th and 10th I was a local vendor at one of our commnity for the 'shop local' campaign. This will be linked up with CatPatches.

I missed out on Sue's Christmas Quilt Along wrap up link because I was vending , but will post about this tomorrow and information on next year's schedule for those interested in joining in.

CLOSING THOUGHT

May the days until Christmas be full of sweet pleasure,
And your holidays create joyful memories to treasure.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Quilt Gallery's 4th Anniversary Celebration

2011-12-08T22:49:00.000-08:00

I hope you will join in the fun give aways here at Michele's (a.k.a. mishka) Quilt Gallery in celebration of 4 wonderful years. Over 200 bloggers from 20 countries are participating and a full list will be found on the site by midnight.

This is my give away. I know everyone likes to win fabric, but I am sure there will be plenty of that offered. So I decided for this special occassion to offer a piece that is dear to me. It's Christmas, and one gives from the heart. This is a self-design and one of a kind wallhanging that started me into quilting. Always an avid cross stitcher, I began experimenting with fabric framing my pieces - adding my signature metalic and silk threads, and beading. This was designed for entry into the 2008 Black Threads International Celebration of the African Woman Quilt Show. "Jubilation" has traveled and now home - looking for a new home.

This is a close up of the center. Over 200 color floss were used from 4 different companies as well as some hand dyed. Sulky metalic and silk thread were used in the cross stitch as well as to quilt - all quilting is done by hand. There is beading in the cross stitch center as well as thru the fabric framing. It is 29" wide by 32" in length. Hanging sleeve and labeled - another label will be attached with dedication to winner. This has been washed and care instructions will be given. You do not have to be a follower, but certainly welcomed. I will ship international and winner will be chosen at midnight, December 17th with name announced on the 18th - all efforts will be made to contact winner so be sure your e-mail information is available.

Enjoy the Blog Hop Party,
Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-07T21:50:00.000-08:00

In 1846 Queen Victoria and her German Prince, Albert, were illustrated in the Illustrated London News standing with their children around a Christmas Tree. Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done at Court immediately became fashionable - not only in Britain, but with fashion-conscious East Coast American Society. The English Christmas Tree had arrived! Decorations were still of a 'home-made' variety. Young Ladies spent hours at Christmas Crafts, quilling snowflakes and stars, sewing little pouches for secret gifts and paper baskets with sugared almonds in them. Small bead decorations, fine drawn out silver tinsel came from Germany together with beautiful Angels to sit at the top of the tree. Candles were often placed into wooden hoops for safety.

REMINDERS

Visit Darlene here for information on the Accuquilt 'That Holiday Spirit' blog hop. Dec 12-16

Darlene has, also, updated the information to prepare for the 2012 Free Motion Quilting Challenge - along with a list of volunteer experts to help us out - you don't want to miss this if you have every wanted to learn FMQ. See the Dec. 7th post here.

Visit Michele here for details - as of today there are 226 blogs pre-registered from 20 countries. WOW - two blog hops the same week - so glad I am catching up with projects with 'Occupy'

Be sure to share you ME MINUTES over at Marcia's. Some great crafts, christmas gifts, recipes, and personal time things being shared there.

6" AUSTRALIAN BLOCK SWAP

These lovely spool blocks came from Lynette. They took time to arrive - due when we had our flood and then we had no post office or mail delivery, then she had some personal things. I told her not to worry, but here they are in all their glory and she included some of the scraps for me to use in my smaller spool blocks I am making to combine with this project. Thank you Lynette!

OCCUPY YOUR SEWING ROOM

My oldest son came to do laundry to I put him to work moving some of the heavier items for my 're-org' as well as winterize my front hall doorway. In the re-org I came across some 'blocks in progress' so did some finish up work on those. I probably will pass these on to Sarah for her ministry quilts - she and her girls do such a wonderful job and I love being a small part in it.

CLOSING THOUGHT

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree
How lovely are your branches.
In summer sun and winter snow,
A dress of green you always show.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
How lovely are your branches.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
With happiness we greet you
When decked with candles once a year,
You fill our hearts with yultide cheer.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
With happiness we greet you

- Traditional German Carol -

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Angels Heard on High

2011-12-06T23:20:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Tree first came to England with the Georgian Kings who came from Germany. At this time also, German Merchants living in England decorated their homes with a Christmas Tree. The decorations were Tinsels, silver wire ornaments, candles and small beads. All these had been manufactured in Germany and East Europe since the 17th century. The custom was to have several small trees on tables, one for each member of the family, with that persons gifts stacked on the table under the tree. The early trees introduced into America by the Hessian soldiers were not recorded in any particular quantity. The Pennsylvanian German settlements had community trees as early as 1747.

Yes - I am still in that 'occupy' mode even though all that cleaning and organizing really whipped my behind. And everyone around me has or is coming down with the flu - taking lots of vitamin C and fluids.

I finished the Ruby Tote with Clover & Violet (will link up). Very different looking from theirs for sure. I opted not to add the side ties as will be using this for my quilt guild carry tote - lots of pockets inside to hold various items if needed for a class. The front pocket is a little bare - I have a flower pin with my name on it - that may go nicely there.

And this is the back. I went with a solid piece instead of the patchwork. This is just too pretty to cut up and I actually designed around this fabric. Some of these fabrics are from my stash and some are from items received in swaps/winnings. So it is a bit of a treasured piece for me. I love the earthy, country look to it - and these are my 'angels heard on high'.

More eye glass cases. I sent some on to the Senior Home and then made some for a local craft show - let me tell you, looking for a man's gift. This is it! I had men buying these for themselves. Even got a request for a case with a pocket in it to carry a pen, gas card, cash, etc... Used my tutorial found here.

And the next block for the Fat Quarter Stars Quilt Along. I almost forgot about this, but it worked up fast even with the hand stitching on the cathedrial window section. But the seams are a bit 'thick' and had to get my seamstress hammer out and whack those bad boys flat. I like the look of this block, but wouldn't want to do a whole quilt with them.

Are you getting a chance to occupy your sewing room? To clean, tidy, organize, stitch, fold some fabric, even to pet it and tell it is love?

CLOSING THOUGHT

As our community church has started to ring the bells in seasonal songs, I thought of this:

I heard the bells, on Christmas Day,
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

- By Henry Longfellow

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Deck the Halls Or Cleaning Them

2011-12-06T04:54:00.000-08:00

In the mid 16th century, Christmas markets were set up in German towns, to provide everything from Christmas presents, food and more practical things such as a knife grinder to sharpen the knife to carve the Christmas Goose! A visitor to Strasbourg in 1601 recorded a tree decorated with "wafers and golden sugar-twists (Barleysugar) and paper flowers of all colours". Tinsel was invented in Germany around 1610. At that time real silver was used, and machines were invented which pulled the silver out into the wafer thin strips for tinsel. Silver was durable, but tarnished quickly, especially with candlelight. Attempts were made to use a mixture of lead and tin, but this was heavy and tended to break under its own weight so was not so practical. So silver was used for tinsel right up to the mid-20th century.

ORNAMENT SWAP

I joined in Tony's ornament exchange this year and this lovely ornament is from Sherry. Reminds me of the handmade Victorian pieces - and I love pearls and blue! No one better touch this!

This cute little snowman - with snow belly - is from a student in Mrs. Cook's 6th grade class. I haven't had a child's homemade ornament for many years so this is special.

This precious beauty if from Belinda. Just had to ask her how she made these. I've made the prairie point fabric balls, but this is so different - so delicate and sparkly.

And this multi-pocket cone is from Tonya herself - filled with so many little goodies from her family. I have a few more to arrive, but had to share these with you. And yes I have been scolded - need to get a little tree to put my treasures on - I think a live tree.

OCCUPY YOUR SEWING ROOM

It was a cleaning day in the sewing room - which is kind of my house now that I think about it. I am moving my sewing area, which of course then means you move a lot of other things. But if I want to be more organized for 2012, it must be done.

Of course that involved putting all those saved/printed/gathered/hunted for papers and patterns into a neater order rather than that 'pile'. Gosh, I was so naive when I started - printed everything!!! Now things are where they belong with a lot of throw out. Well, a lot of the paper is boxed to use (recycle) for paper piecing. I need to find a set of blinders to hang next to the computer - limit those projects! But I did prep some projects for a full day of sewing today.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree.
Lush, green ambiance standing before me.
Mesmerized by childhood memories.
I smile and ponder of which I see.
- Melvina Germain

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Yule Tree

2011-12-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

In 722 A.D., Saint Boniface, an English missionary and Benedictine monk, came upon some men about to cut down a huge oak tree to be
used as a stake for a human sacrifice to Thor, one of the Norse Gods. With a mighty blow from an axe, Saint Boniface felled the massive oak and, as the tree split apart, a beautiful young fir tree sprang from its center. Saint Boniface informed the people that this beautiful evergreen, whose branches pointed toward heaven, was a holy tree symbolizing the purity of the New Faith and the promise of eternal life. Saint Boniface then instructed them to carry the evergreen from the wilderness, place it into their homes and surround it with gifts symbolic of love and kindness.

Legend has it that Martin Luther began the tradition of decorating trees to celebrate Christmas. One crisp Christmas Eve, about the year 1500, he was walking through snow-covered woods and was struck by the beauty of a group of small evergreens. Their branches, dusted with snow, shimmered in the moonlight. When he got home, he set up a little fir tree indoors so he could share this story with his children. He decorated it with candles, which he lighted in honor of Christ's birth.

OCCUPY YOUR SEWING ROOM

Saturday I finished the binding and tie on the Stitch Along blocks and hung it on the mantel. I decided not to put buttons on the tie as there were beads and buttons on the blocks - would have been button over-kill.

I hemmed some curtains and got them hung. Just flat single bed sheets - easy peasy no headache sewing. But spruced up the bedroom which also was on the cleaning list.

This is a photo memory quilt that my daughter made for her MIL and asked me to quilt it. So picked out a Henry Glass blue voile for the back and one of their clam shell blue prints for binding, grabbed a batt. Basting went rather quickly and I went to town with quilting, using Marcia's ribbon technique. And I ended up machine stitching the binding on after calling her to say it was done - she was originally going to hand sew binding down, but with two little ones, didn't feel she would get to it. I hope to get an outdoors photo of the finish tomorrow.

ON THE WALL

I layed out my blocks from the 12 Days of Christmas to get some idea what I want to do for sashing. I will have to go to my LQS (gosh darn)as my Holiday fabrics now are just scraps and strings. I know what I want to do with sashing and a border, but some of the blocks need a little more embellishing, too. Will link up with Judy at Patchworktimes.

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - Growing Stitches comments will end Dec 13th

Box #2 - KelbySews comments open until 11pm Dec 9th

Box #3 - PhillysBlarney - announcing winner today

REMINDER

Quilters Gallery blog hop to celebrate 4th anniversary - sign up by Dec8th if you plan to be on the list of blogs participating.

CLOSING THOUGHT

"Under the tree the gifts enthrall,
But the nicest present of them all
Is filling our thoughts with those who care,
Wanting our Christmas joy to share."
- Joanna Fuchs

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Occupy Your Sewing Room

2011-12-03T04:47:00.000-08:00

Today begins the wonderful idea of "Occupy Your Sewing Room" by Barb at CatPatches. I have a daily list of TO-DO's - today I want to finish the Stitch Along Banner for the mantel and get it hung. And I need to baste out a quilt that I am finishing off for my daughter - she made the quilt, I am machine quilting, attach binding, she will hand sew binding down and add label. And some house work thrown in.

ALSO - remember to go to SewCalGal this weekend to vote for your favorite Winter and Christmas quilt entry in the Holiday Quilt Show.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Just Some Reminders

2011-12-01T21:01:00.000-08:00

Today - December 2nd - is the last day to enter Darlene's Holiday Quilt Show here. Remember to go back on Saturday/Sunday and vote for your favorites - one Christmas Theme Quilt and one Winter Theme Quilt in one comment. List name and number of entrant from list. Entrants can win, but so can you by just voting - how cool is that!! AND if you visit each blog and leave a lovely comment, go back and tell Darlene you did for another entry.

Just to let all you followers of the Traveling Stash know - they are ALL ready to be moved on now. So be sure to hop over and leave a comment on:

Box #1 - Growing Stitches comments will end Dec 13th

Box #2 - KelbySews comments open until 11pm Dec 9th

Box #3 - PhillysBlarney comments open until midnight Dec 4th

Sew We Quilt has a full month of quick gift tutorials you don't want to miss.

And a reminder that the Occupy Your Sewing Room begins Saturday (Dec 3)thru Dec 10. Then link up with CatPatches on Dec. 11 with your completed projects for some great prizes.

Something new (button will be on side bar all month) is a wonderful Bloggers Christmas Giveaway Hop to celebrate the Quilting Gallery's 4th Anniversary. Check out Quilter's Gallery for the rules on registering your blog for a give away. I know you all like to enter give aways, but consider doing this yourself - great way to expose your blog and spread some quilty love. You need to hurry - must register your blog by December 8th to be on the list of participating bloggers on the 9th. YES, I have registered!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Time To Trim the Tree

2011-11-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

Last year I dedicated December to the Seasonal Songs. This year I would like to dedicate the month to the history of the Christmas Tree. Let's start with some history:

The Egyptians were part of a long line of cultures that treasured and worshipped evergreens. When the winter solstice arrive, they brought green date palm leaves into their homes to symbolize life's triumph over death.
The Romans celebrated the winter solstice with a fest called Saturnalia in honor of Saturnus, the god of agriculture. They decorated their houses with greens and lights and exchanged gifts. They gave coins for prosperity, pastries for happiness, and lamps to light one's journey through life. Centuries ago in Great Britain, woods priests called Druids used evergreens during mysterious winter solstice rituals. The Druids used holly and mistletoe as symbols of eternal life, and place evergreen branches over doors to keep away evil spirits. Late in the Middle Ages, Germans and Scandinavians placed evergreen trees inside their homes or just outside their doors to show their hope in the forthcoming spring. Purhaps our modern Christmas tree evolved from these early traditions?

SWAPS

Some lovely Spool Blocks from Vanessa for the Austalian 6" block swap.

And this wonderful candle mat from Danette. We waited till each had our package and opened them the same day. Made this last swap special.

And this is the candle mat I made for her - photo taken from her blog as I forgot to do it.

BLOCKS

Not the best photo, but the November block for the Blogger's BOM. I did change it up from theirs as it was too busy - this is busy enough!

And my version of the wreath block for the Christmas Sampler Quilt Along. I just can't do (or like) machine applique - making blocks with tiny bits is more my style. I will add some beads, metallic threads, and bow with quilting. Today I think is the last block, so I left my few scraps of seasonal fabric out to play.

Not really a block, but a quilt along - Clover & Violet's 'Ruby Tote'. Making the lining step. I did change my pockets to meet the needs of what I carry to class/guild.

MINUTES FOR ME

I made this cute holder for my plastic grocery bags. I looked at some tutorials on-line and then did my own. Used some left over charms from a Marcus Brother line. Recycled some ribbon and lining is a recycled shirt, alpha letter wood beads (don't want this walking out the door), and a button.

And I started to do a little decorating. That's my tree! I only do my mantel. I hung my candle mat until I get the embroidered banner finished, then I can set up the side table. The Advent piece is old - made with a pre-printed panel when my daughter was 2 or 3 - she's 30 yrs. old now. And I don't do ladders well, so it will stay hanging crooked. LOL!!

I will be linking up with Marcia's CraftySewing blog for her Minutes For Me this week.

REMINDERS

Still time to link up with Darlene at SewCalGal for the Christmas Quilt Show.

Be sure to visit Sew We Quilt as December will be filled with quick project tutorials. Need an idea for a quick gift - pop on over.

TRAVELING STASH

Box # 1 - on it's way to Growing Stitches

Box # 2 - Kelbysews is ready to move this box on. She is leaving comments open until Dec 9th, so pop over and good luck.

Box # 3 - PhillysBlarney is ready to move this box on. She is leaving comments open until Dec 4th, so head on over and good luck.

GIVE AWAY WINNER

Remember those 600 pre-cut blocks? Well I gave my list of names to the neighbor who doesn't know Blogger from Adam and she chose Gmamma Jane. I will send seperate e-mail for information so I can get this right out. Thank you all for participating - the New Year may hit the 200 post mark!

CLOSING THOUGHT

One little star on the top of the tree,
Two little presents underneath for me,
Three silver ropes twisted around the tree,
Four colored lights shining prettily,
Five shining balls flowing silvery.
Oh, what a sight for use to see!
- ANON

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Quilt Show

2011-11-28T19:59:00.000-08:00

I am excited to participate in this year's Christmas Quilt Show sponsored by SewCalGal. Please consider joining in or at least visit all the blogs with entries and casting votes at the end of the Show.

This a free BOM from Sulky International and from the year 2004. I wasn't quilting at that time, but a quilting friend showed me the Sulky site as I became an avid paperpiecer and I made the wallhanging in 2009-2010. It will be a heritage piece as I am planning on 'playing' with my grand children in finishing all the embellishing. Letting them choose a house or item that needs decorating over the years.

The SchoolHouse - my grandies aren't in school yet, so this one will probably wait a few years. And you may have noticed that I missed part of the star in my piecing - no worries, I'll embroider that section in.

Santa's Workshop and Row Houses. I think this year will be Santa's turn for some fun play.

The Candy Shop. I fussy cut the snow baby in the door - my Mom (their grandmother) collects snow baby porcelians and this will be a way of remembering her in the future. You may be able to make out the background fabric - it is the 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' story - the first holiday storybook I read to my eldest grandson.

Patchwork Shop and Post Office. Since we are a quilting family with quilt shop, this block is sure to get some goodies added. The mini holiday quilt is ready to hang on the line. The Post Office represents my Son-in-Law who is a route post deliveryman. Found this cute little envelope embroidery to stitch on the front.

The X-mas House - we had a local home that set up and displayed wonderful trees for the holiday and visitors were welcomed to enjoy. Church - our lovely little village churches are heavily damaged (Irene flood) and hopefully will be restored. Christmas Eve Service is a family tradition. Toy Shop - what little boy or girl doesn't love a toy shop! And the Bakery for all those lovely sweets during the holiday.

And my little box for storing goodies found with the hopes of being added to the embellishing of this wallhanging. Being a revolving-thru-the-years project, it will be fun to 'find' little items to put in that box for the grandies to search thru and select as part of the year's addition.

Thank you for visiting, maybe I have inspired to make a heritage piece to share with your grands. Please, be sure to visit all the bloggers participating and leave them a word or two (or more). Also, thank Darlene for hosting - after all, where can you see a Christmas Quilt Show without leaving your house!

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

In A Cavern

2011-11-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

It is funny how we get so use to a set routine and when changed, we feel in the dark, feeling our way. I did enjoy time with my daughter, son-in-law and the grands - too much food and lots of hugs and kisses. But, then home to take part in 'support small businesses in your community' weekend. I spent the rest of the holiday weekend at Howes Caverns, a local attraction. They hosted a special tour weekend as well as a Holiday Craft Fair with local artisans. There were 12 of us in a wonderful setting in their dining room. They also had some raffles and sales which funds went directly to the Flood Victims Fund. I knew all of the vendors, so was a very warm, friendly weekend. My sister in-law even came to help out - got her feet wet in the business so to speak as we have two more weekends in local communities with similar ventures. No we didn't get the cavern tour into our time table, purhaps another time.

BUT I SEWED WHEN I CAME HOME AT NIGHT

The next FQ Star Quilt Along block with my recycled men's shirts.

My version of the ornament block for the Christmas Quilt Along. I am not fond of machine applique, and the original block had lots of small ornaments. I decided to just use my holiday scraps and make one large. I will add beading and a bow when ready to quilt.

I changed up the stocking block, too. Needs some embroidery and ribbon work for finishing.

And the new phone book arrived in the mail, so naturally that means the old one is fair game for some strip piecing play. That never ending scrap tote!!

Pretty string blocks - how I find it so relaxing to just mindlessly stitch these and find such a delight in how all those tangles of fabric turn into blocks. Oh, the little blue ones in the basket were inspired by the Orca Bay, but I am not participating in that - they will be used else where, but I have a lot of blue skinny strings!

And a thrill to find a package arrived - my candle mat swap. I am waiting to hear from Danette, so we can open them together.

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - GrowingStitches

Box #2 - KelbySews

Box #3 - PhillysBlarney

REMINDER

Christmas Quilt Show I need to pull my items to photo and will post for Tuesday.

CLOSING THOUGH

"While the spirit of neighborliness was important on the frontier because neighbors were so few, it is even more important now because our neighbors are so many." ~Lady Bird Johnson

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Quilt Show

2011-11-27T04:37:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the start of SewCal Gal's annual Christmas Quilt Show. Small, medium, large, and designed in EQ - it will all be fantastic and you won't want to miss it. So get your camara, grab your entry, and be ready to post and join in.

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T22:53:00.000-08:00

I am feeling blessed with many helping hands that have been so active in our community, helping it to recover - so many who give up a day or two each weekend. For all my blogging friends who always seem to support and help to the utmost where they can. For family - who I will be spending with a few days. Yes, off to my daughter's and I get to smother my grandsons with kisses and hugs!

MINUTES FOR ME

It has been a wonderful year with the few swaps I participated in. But I really enjoyed the Once Upon A Season hosted by Cheryl at Stitching Cubby Hole. Each season swapping with a new person - this lovely package is from Donna at LavenderNest.

We swapped the Australian seasons (this was Summer) which was cool as you worked on a project different from what was around at the time - sometimes I had to think outside the box. Look at the goodies - blue FQ's (I love blue), daisy buttons (I love buttons), a pinnie table mat (I love pinwheels), and a beautifull vintage stitched dresser runner with picot edging. Oh, reminded me of my greatgran who actually has been on my mind a lot. Thank you Donna for so many lovelies for me.

And I ordered an Ackfeld wire table top hanger for my year of minis. Rather that wait for January - Regina Grewe offered this wonderful nutcracker pattern while the 'Garden Fun' BOM is on winter holiday. So I had to make him to dress up my new hanger and be part of my holiday decor.

Marcia atCraftySewing has this wonderful idea of Minutes for Me and each week sets up a Linky Party. This weeks is extended because of the Holiday. Why not join in? No prizes, give aways - just a way to allow yourself to make some MINUTES. We all need to reward ourselves with ME time. I'm linking this rather short post to Minutes For Me - I will be away for the next 4 days - ME TIME.

CLOSING THOUGHT

My dear greatgran has so been on my mind - a woman before her time. A pillar of the family and the community. She had so many quotes of wisdom - sometimes a bit mixed up or beyond my tender years to understand. But at this time, I remember her offering this on to me when I questioned why she had given a neighbor her last bag of flour one Thanksgiving. "Remember child, the giving hand extends further than your sleeve. It will be returned tenfold if you extend both hands."

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Block Party!!

2011-11-20T21:26:00.000-08:00

I hope you have been visiting HERE as there has been one or two wonderful block tutorials each day - all thru the month of November! I will be a guest tomorrow - Tuesday, Nov 22nd. Hope you pop in for a visit and leave me a line.

I finished my 12 of Hearts BOM stitchery. I'm thinking Moda's Blueberry Crumble will play so nicely with these. What do you think?

These little basket blocks are on their way 'across the pond' as part of the Australia 6" block swap. I am not the best at applique' (handles), but goes to show you need to TRY to learn anything new. Small projects in a new technique are wonderful ways to try something new.

My version of the tree block for the 12 Days of Christmas Quilt Along.

And my version of the Noel block for the 12 Days of Christmas Quilt Along. This shows you should print from one version - the N was from the site and the other letters from a saved file - see how they are different - HEY, I like different so it stayed as is.

Block #10 from Quilt Happy,Quilt Often's Home Sweet Home BOM. They are just 4.5" blocks and stitch very quickly. They are all still available if you like.

ON THE WALL

This is my progress for the Clover & Violet market tote. I am going with a solid back and pieced front. A lot more to do on the pocket stitchery which I am also using my pen-tech pencils. I will be adding beadwork, too. I will link this project up with Judy and Clover & Violet.

REMINDERS

Sew Cal Gal - Christmas Quilt Blog Hop
Occupy Your Sewing Room
Minutes for Me
FQ Star Quilt Along (Tuesday next block)
12 Days of Christmas (Tuesday next block)

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - just passed on to Jessica at Quilty Habit.

Box # 2 - Staci will be splitting the box in two - The Confused Quilter so hop over and leave a comment if you are up to committing.

GIVE AWAY

Since it is a block party, I will be doing a block tutorial on Sew We Quilt, I seem to be working in blocks, my SQUARED UP segment has been missing for a while, and I am almost to that magic 300 follower thing - it's give away time!!! What better than a collection of pre-cut squares (blocks) from my overflowing barrel. Seems I don't use the 3.5" squares very often. This is a pile of 600 squares - be a follower and leave me a comment "your fondest memory of FIRST snow" - nothing more special and thrilling as the first snowfall of the season. I will announce the winner DECEMBER 1ST. **Will ship international**

CLOSING THOUGHT

Moe has finally, I think, accepted this fabric piles, threads stuck to everything, hissing iron, starch spray, machines humming, pins on the floor crazy house. Today was the first time I found him amid the fabric napping. Do you see which fabric he pulled to use for his pillow?

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Pass The Tissues Please!

2011-11-16T21:11:00.000-08:00

So many asked if I would post a tutorial for how I made the tissue box cover for the Ghastlie Blog Hop. With many bloggers having been ill, are ill, or family ill - gosh this darn Flue season has gotten to us all - this seems like a good time.

This is long with lots of photos. They are actually very easy, but feel the more visual the more help. And you are always free to express yourself with the pattern, share it, just link back for credit.

Most of these small tissue boxes are the same size, but check your measurements. I measured the top of the box which was 4.5" square. Add a 1/2" to your pattern for seams. So we are working with a 5" square.

Take the side measurements. This box is 4.5" x 5" - add the 1/2" for seams. So we are working with a 5" x 5.5" rectangle.

Supplies:
Top: cut 5" square and cut in half so you now have two 2.5" x 5" rectangles
Sides: cut four 5" x 5.5" rectangles
Bindings: cut two 1.5" x 5" for top and one 1.5" x 22" for bottom

Sew your binding strips to one long side of each top rectangle.

Press your binding out. Turn over and press the binding edge to the top of seam raw edge.

Fold over and press in place. Pin and top stitch from the front. There is plenty of room to stitch and catch that binding edge. Even have some fun and use a fancy stitch here if you like.

Now butt up your two top pieces and stitch across 1/4" seam to hold in place. Mark your 1/4" seam locations in each corner as we are going to learn some set in seams - DON'T get nervous, use this as a learning curve.

Take one of your side pieces and pin right sides together on one of the 'seamed' top side, making sure your pattern or directional fabric is going the right direction - don't want anyone standing on their head. Stitch from 1/4" mark to 1/4" mark.

Now we are going to add the OPPOSITE side piece, pin right sides together again checking our pattern is correct - and stitch from 1/4" mark to 1/4" mark.

Press your two side pieces out. Here you can play. If you are a beginner at set ins, I would skip this. If you are a confident beginner or experienced, you could top stitch or use a fancy stitch - just REMEMBER to start 1/4" in and end 1/4" from end! The Ghastlie cover I hand stitched with floss and large stitch AFTER completed.

Now for our other sides. Place right sides together (check your pattern directions so no upside down) and pin. If you pull back you previous seams, it will aid you in pinning your start and ending 1/4" points. Stitch from 1/4" to 1/4".

Add your last side using the same method. Pin your seams out of the way to help with the 1/4" mark. Stitch from 1/4" to 1/4".

Press your side pieces out. Again, you can leave them as is or use a top stitch or fancy stitch - remembering to start and stop 1/4" from edge.

With right sides together, line up your seam sides. It helps to fold the entire piece in half. Set a pin at your starting point - your 1/4" should be easy to see with your prior stitching. START at this point and stitch down the side.

Use the same process on the OPPOSITE corner/side. Your 1/4" seam sets are visible at that top - start there and stitch down the side seam. Repeat for the other two sides.

Turn your little fabric box right side out. Almost there. Time to check those corners and do any fixing. Don't stress it - it's a tissue cover! And if your first experience at this, relax and breath. It's better to take some hand stitches to fix than try to re-sew. Make a few more and you will be a pro.

Now to bind the bottom - just the same process as the top edges. Press one end 1/4", pin binding around bottom with right sides facing. Start stitching just before a seam/corner, go around and end just after the last seam/corner.

Match up your binding - I fold back butting up to other ends fold. Then pin those two fold lines together. Stitch across. Trim excess. Finger press those seams open and pin binding in place - finish stitching down. This is a skinny binding and a small opening - no need to stress over bias edges like on a quilt.

Again like the top binding - press the binding out, then fold and press to match raw edge of seam and binding edge. Fold over the seam and pin in place for stitching. Again just a lot of room for a straight stitch or play with your fancy stitches.

Here's the finished tissue cover. Wouldn't it be fun to use some rick-rack instead of binding? Add some yo-yo's? Oh your imagination makes it your own.

I made another to varify my directions - how about a tissue cover for your little buck-a-roo! Enjoy your creations and feel free to ask any questions if something is hard to understand. ABOVE ALL - have FUN.

I will be linking this post with Marcia's Minutes for Me at Marcias Crafty,Sewing,Blog as I enjoyed using my minutes to share this tutorial with you.

Also linking up with Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Just to share something new to me in the tissue world:

Design Your Own Tissue Box

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

November Woods

2011-11-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

I feel like our November woods. A little bit of color is trying to stay, but Mother Nature and Father Time are battling. Morning mists, morning frosts, morning snow - all fade away with the warmth of days sun. 2011 is fading into 2012. Projects done, projects that need to be done, and those we look ahead to. Changing our creativity with the changing season.

Almost to the end of the Raspberry Rabbits 12 of Hearts BOM. I still haven't decided on fabric(s) for finishing. Do I want a bright, do I want a dark?

And on the design wall - the finishing of the Sew Happy Sew Along embroidery. I may have to take this to my LQS and browse fabrics as nothing made me happy within the stash. I think it is the scrap quilters stash syndrome (is their such a thing) as just tired of the same old. Again a bright modern, or a muted country?

I never tire of playing with my small bits. When in a 'think' spot, I like to pull the barrel of pre-cut tinies and play. I know, who cuts 1.5" squares - I do! And they make for wonderful things as you get the fun of dark, light, bright, muted, spring, summer, fall, winter - all those bits of projects are in there.

I had to play with something new. This little clutch - The Dumpling - found here. Not sure it is something I would use, but know a few pre-teens that might like it.

REMINDERS

Be sure to check out the Henry Glass Blog Hop that started Sunday. Meet some of the designers and pick up some inspirations as well as some free projects.

You can still join in the 12 Days of Christmas Sampler.

Check those projects and think about joining in the SewCal 2011 Christmas Quilt Show.

SOMETHING NEW

I added a new button for a project coming in 2012 - 'Made in Cherry' found over here.

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - Shannon of NuNus Quilt World - She is ready to pass on the stash, so pay her a visit.

Box #2 - Staci of The Confused Quilter will be opening for comments Tuesday.

CLOSING THOUGHT

"November woods are bare and still;
November days are clear and bright;
Each noon burns up the morning's chill,
The morning's snow is gone by night.. "
- Helen Hunt Jackson

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

November Christmas Quilt Along

2011-11-12T05:21:00.000-08:00

Wow, the last quilt along with Sue, it does give a wake up call! Getting set up and waiting on the coffee. I will update on this page thru the day.

I was going to work on the Christmas quilt done with this group - just needs quilting (binding made and ready), BUT I need to straighten these units. AND by the dust, also pull them out and do some cleaning. So I am going to do several small projects working just from these units while I clean/organize. Ah, coffee finished brewing - now I can start!

UPDATE

Here are a few of the 'manly' eye glass cases finished - for the senior home . For anyone new - the cases tutorial I did is here.

UPDATE

I made some tea wallets - will pair up with some teas for gifts. Need to clear that work spot up and then some lunch before the next project.
** I found a tutorial that is very close to how I make these -
here.

UPDATE

I straightened out the under-bed storage tote of X-mas fabrics - bagged all the strings (next years project) and bagged the small bits that need cutting down (have zip lock bags started with 2", 2.5", and 3.5" squares). I added my 12 Days of Christmas blocks in this. Now I will just pull once a week to finish up that project as the blocks are released.

I managed to go thru each drawer in the white tower and clean/sort/arrange each one. They weren't too bad, but a few items got tucked in the wrong drawer and needed to go back to their rightful home. I need to fold laundry and get to some other household chores. I have some fabric pulled to prep for key fobs. But I will be running into my time for hand stitching. So calling this my Quilt Along day.

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Stitches for Me

2011-11-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

I am keeping to my goal of putting some stitching time in every day. This piece is going slowly as I am working around some 'missing' color - floss is on order. Once that is here, I think I will work a full day on it to get all the missing pieces filled in.

I just love this bear! I chose to use real little buttons for his joints instead of stitching them. And I am working on the snowman. Then just the tree is left to do. Remember today she posts the final finishing for this mantel banner here.

The fourth block of the Fat Quarter Stars Quilt Along. This is not an easy block - beginners, don't skip it. Use it as a learning tool - just cut carefully and sew slowly. Use the pressing directions provided and you will be successful.

I have to tell you, I went two full days without touching my machines! Then one night I just had to sew. This is my block for the 12 Days of Christmas Sampler. The designer has a 4 present block, but I didn't want a lot of seams and wanted a balance with the other blocks. So I did one of the blocks from 'Gift Boxes' - I want a BIG present!

The next 12 Days of Christmas block is a snowflake done with selvedge and raw applique. I don't have any selvedge nor do I like the look of raw applique. So I went hunting for a similiar paper pieced block - I love to paper piece. I found this one here, check out the home page - lots of lovelies and some freebies! The light blue cone of thread in the photo - just to show you how much thread I go thru. If you have followed me for some time you may remember a post on this cone thread and how many I use. The cone is from Connecting Threads and holds 5000 yrds. This is my 4th cone for the year. That's not counting how many spools of other threads I have used either. I have another order in, but I do have a box, two cases and some specialty threads in a tin - so I can work while I wait.

I am linking this post up with Marcia's Minutes For Me.

REMINDERS

Hope you are popping into Sew We Quilt as all November is a Block Party. Lots of block tutorials with tips, techniques and inspiration to assist with your quilting.

The Raspberry Rabbits 12 of Hearts block comes out on Saturday 12th

The Christmas Quilt Along over at Quilt Times is this Saturday 12th. Join in getting some of your gifts done and maybe some inspiration, too.

Haven't heard of the Traveling Stash being ready to move on, but will update when I do.

SOMETHING NEW

New button added to the side bar for the Henry Glass Blog Hop. This was one of the fabric sites I posted a long time ago. They have updated the look of their site. Introducing some new things as well as sharing and give aways.

CLOSING THOUGHT

"From the manner in which a woman draws her thread at every stitch of her needlework, any other woman can surmise her thoughts." ~Honore de Balzac

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

The Eyes Have It

2011-11-09T21:29:00.000-08:00

Due to a number of requests, I am presenting the eyeglass case tutorial today - next week on Thursday I will have the tutorial for the tissue box cover that I made with the Ghastlies.

SUPPLIES: (1)Main fabric - 4" x 13.5", (1) Lining - 4" x 13.25", (2) batt 4" x 6.5" (**I used a low loft cotton batt), pins, scissors, machine and thread. ** I used my own glasses for size so they may be a little large, but you have room then for a snap/velcro or tab closure if you like**

Here are my pieces cut for demo - main fabric, lining, and batt. I also have a green case as you will see as I needed to show a few different steps in one photo and hopefully the two different color cases will aid in that.

Place your main fabric and lining pieces right sides together (RST) and pin/sew the short ends - remember the lining is a little shorter in length, but that is to allow the lining to lay nicely inside the case with the thickness of the batt.

Press those seams open. You will have a continuous circle of fabric.

Now fold in half, matching seams and pin seams. Press.

Prepping for sewing - **on main fabric half** - place one batt, your case, and second batt piece. Batting should fit from bottom edge of case to mid-seam and side edges. Pin all in place and leave a turning opening (1.5"-2") on one lining side.

TIP - when sewing the long sides, start at the batt end, this will aid in keeping the batt smooth. This means you will sew down one side - remember your opening for turning **I did the turning hole side first so I would remember to DO IT! Then flip it over to sew down the other side starting at the batt end and sew all the way down. YES, back stitch your stitching start/stop so seams won't pop open when turning.

Clip your corners - TIP - turn your batt end first as it prevents the batt from bunching. And then the other half turns thru that hole so easy. Use your favorite tool for pushing out corners - I use an old chop stick.

Press flat and stitch your opening closed (by hand or machine). Then push the lining into the case BEING SURE that it goes inbetween the layers of batt. Use your corner tool to work those lining corners nicely into the case corners. If you have used all the pressing in each step, this process goes nicely.

Now you can embellish, top stitch edge if you like (this is small so you may have to hand stitch), add a closing tab or snap - or leave them plain - it is all up to you. Enjoy and please share if you make some as I would love to see them **link back to this post for tutorial credit, please.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“The eye sees a thing more clearly in dreams than the imagination awake.”
- - - Leonardo Da Vinci

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Changing Time

2011-11-06T22:01:00.000-08:00

I am so glad that most of my clocks auto-change so I don't have to worry about them. Just my battery clock in the kitchen and I'll be honest - I only touch that when it needs a new battery. So it will be the correct time again. I drive people nuts with it - I never use it as a time piece, it's just there.

I feel some of my quilting and crafting needs a change. I'm not waiting to make New Year's resolutions (you never keep them), so making changes now. I want to work more on my cross stitch - a little every day. So come 9pm the sewing machines get turned off and the rest of the night is anything hand work - cross stitch, finishings, embroidery, etc. And I really thinned out my UFO quilt tops - either done or donated. Only the newest projects remain. I have decided that 2012 will be the year of small projects. Something that can be done in a week, month, or couple of months. Not just for the need of that 'completed fix', but so I don't have another 'clock' that is off-time.

SWAPS

This is something I have to get better at. I love swaps, but do limit myself. I like to do them as soon as I get my partner info and confirmation. But I don't show a lot that I send because I don't want to spoil surprises and then forget to show them after they are received. AND I tend to forget to show all the goodies I get. This box of Sunshine is from the Once Upon a Season swap (I deleted my partner info once I know my package was received). Lovely Sandra Pipitone sent this (I think she waited till our flooding and recovery was better) it is the Spring swap. That beautiful bag was stuffed! Cute Rabbit table topper ready for spring, spring green ribbon, scented candle in a bag, knitted dishclothe (never had one - my first), bright yellow dish towel, plant poke with the cutest little pot with seed starter for 'forget-me-nots', to-do note pad for fridge, and cute ceramic ornament that says "Take Life One Square at a Time". Thank you Sandra!

SMALL PROJECTS

Several eye glass cases - all from my scrap drawer (bigger, prettier pieces not ready for the scrap tote)and scrap batt. These are for a Senior Home - small gift project for 'Make a Christmas'. The home likes to have a few small gifts for the seniors' breakfast tray on Christmas morning as many cannot see family and family does not visit that day. I need to make some 'manly' ones now. I worked up a tutorial for these and will be adding to one of my posts down the line.

And two more blocks for the 'Sew Happy Sew-Along' project. I know I am behind - but I am enjoying the journey - and they won't be needed until Dec 1st. I have the other three prepped and drawn - ready to stitch during my ME time.

DESIGN WALL

I worked two more blocks for my quilt guild challenge - 2-color quilt. Remember I am doing all blocks with 'bird' names. Because someone asked:
Crows Foot, Swallows Crossing, Bird of Paradise, Wild Duck, Fox and Geese, 4-Patch Fox and Goose, Hovering Hawks, and Circling Dove done so far. Linking this project up with Judy at PatchworkTimes.

REMINDERS

Block tutorials all November starts today at Sew We Quilt's Block Party. I will be doing a tute one of those days.

Market Tote at Clover & Violets on Tuesday.

FQ Stars Quilt Along at Moose on the Porch will have a new block on Tuesday.

Thanksgiving Dinner Challenge - here - lots of pot holder/pad tuts listed as well as you can try TipNut and put in 'potholders' in their search engine - LOTS of tutorials and patterns there for potholders, hot pads, etc... A quick project and great hostess gift done if you are going out to dinner.

TRAVELING STASH

Box #1 - sent off to Shannon of NuNusQuiltWorld

Box #2 - sent off to Staci of The Confused Quilter

CLOSING THOUGHT

"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it." ~Mary Engelbreit

**for those of you who don't know who Mary is - visit here**

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

The Hopping is Done

2011-11-04T21:12:00.000-07:00

It is sad to see it done - but the Ghastlie Hop is over. Such a wonderful display of creativity by my Ghastlie Sisters. You must know, none of us knew what the other was working on - all a secret. Secrets such as this are hard. BUT oh, the fun and the different projects that evolved where fantastic with the use of the same fabric.

There was not a rocket scientist here - so I pulled the random winner of my give away by calling two people and asking them to pick a number from 1-128 and then I used the random generator. Thinking I would have three names that I would then pull from a hat. Well my number and one of the callers were the same - Fate? I think so - so that is my winner. SO Marie of Hummingbird Treasures is the winner of the unfinished runner and Ghastlie fabric bundle - and a surprise. I will send seperate e-mail to her. Thank you all for your lovely comments and for participating in the Ghastlie Blog Hop - 2011.

RUBY MARKET TOTE

As you can see, I'm not using 'Ruby' - but rather what I had in my stash and something that is more ME. Love earthy tones and country scenes, plaids and stripes, and muslin. And went thru my never ending boxes of floss and picked out 'possible' colors - they could change.

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SAMPLER

And I finished the block #4 of the sampler. Just working out of that Christmas fabric tote. This block would look so cute done up all scrappy with thin sashing and cornerstones! Ah, another time.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it. - - - Greg Anderson

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Ghastlie Blog Hop Day #10

2011-11-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

Thrice the brinded cat hath mew'd. Thrice and once, the hedge-pig whin'd. Harpier cries: 'tis time! 'tis time! Round about the caldron go;
In the poison'd entrails throw. Toad, that under cold stone, Days and nights has thirty-one; Swelter'd venom sleeping got, Boil thou first i' the charmed pot! Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble.

Be sure to visit these Ghastlie Sisters today - our final day:

Mrs Nan Ghastlie

Mrs Gmama Jane Ghastlie

Mrs Joan Ghastlie

Mrs Nancy Ghastlie

Ms Susan Ghastlie

Madame Ghastlie

Fillet of a fenny snake, In the caldron boil and bake; Eye of newt, and toe of frog, Wool of bat, and tongue of dog, Adder's fork, and blind-worm's sting, Lizard's leg, and owlet's wing, For a charm of powerful trouble,
Like a hell-broth boil and bubble. Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble.

Be sure you leave a comment on each blog for a chance of one of the TWO Grand Prizes

Jodi from Forth Worth Fabric Studio sent along this lovely package of Ghastlies - I think it was 5 collections...lots' of yardage

Velocity 50 from Reliable...They have been sew downright generous...

Winners will be announced on Saturday.

Scale of dragon; tooth of wolf; Witches' mummy; maw and gulf Of the ravin'd salt-sea shark; Root of hemlock digg'd i the dark; Liver of blaspheming Jew; Gall of goat, and slips of yew Sliver'd in the moon's eclipse; Nose of Turk, and Tartar's lips; Finger of birth-strangled babe
Ditch-deliver'd by a drab, Make the gruel thick and slab: Add thereto a tiger's chaudron, For the ingrediants of our caldron. Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble.

I hope you have enjoyed these 10 days of Ghastlie fun and inspiration and join us again next year.

Cool it with a baboon's blood, Then the charm is firm and good.
--- Shakespeare's "MacBeth" ---

Sewingly Yours,

Ghastlie Blog Hop Day #9

2011-11-03T00:16:00.000-07:00

The Next to the last day - you really want to come and play. Visit these Ghastlie Sisters and give them some love:

Mrs. Sharon Ghastlie ( has pc problems...may be back tomorrow)

Mrs Corrie Ghastlie

Mrs Cheryl Ghastlie

Mrs Linda Ghastlie

Mrs Pickles Ghastlie

Leave them each a comment on their list - and you can be entered for these three Grand Prize Gifts

Corrie @ Quilt Taffy is offering ... yes yes yes $51.12 Gift Certificate
for one lucky Winner...

......OH look a BEAM n READ, Some Presencia threads and is that, is it really some Ghastlie coordinated buttons.

AND yes, more Ghastlie - 4 yds of assorted Ghastlies Fabric from Alexander Henry Fabrics

CHRISTMAS FUN

Yes, I have been sewing - that Christmas fabric tote has been on the table since the cold and the snow hit our area. I really hate working with seasonal/holiday fabrics, but a lot is getting done with it. I'm playing and so is my SIL - maybe between the two of us it will get used up.

The first three blocks of the 12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along - button is on side bar. I have changed the patterns up. The truck needs to be enlarged at least 200% and then you lose the integrity of the pattern. Don't look too close, the door doesn't line up so will have to fix - buttons will be wheels and have some other embellishments planned. The Santa will have buttons added to his coat. And the fireplace will have lots of embellishing - that I changed to look more like my own mantel. I like to do some of my embellishing as part of the quilting, so have little zip-lock baggies with bits and bobs and notes to attach to each block.

This is Valori Wells 'Little Wallet' pattern. They work up so quickly and I have a dozen done. Three pockets will hold those gift cards for the season - gas card, grocery card, and clothing card. And then handy in a pretty wallet tucked in your tote.

Putting the finishing touches on this candle mat for a Swap. I have other goodies to go with it and hopefull ready to mail in a week. I can't show all of it as I know she peeks.

SOMETHING NEW

Just added to the side bar - Minutes For Me button. Marcia will be hosting a linky - click button to go to her blog for information. I will be adding this to my posts.

Clover & Violet will be starting a Stichery Tote project - new button has been added to the side bar.

MINUTES FOR ME

I need to give myself some minutes to me - my cross stitch has been taking a back seat lately. I really find this relaxing, another expression of painting with thread. I love samplers, such a heritage connection. I'm determined to get at least one thread's length stitched each day. I will be connecting with Marcia's CraftySewing blog - won't you join in?

CLOSING THOUGHT

Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting. -- Author Unknown

Sewingly Yours,
Sharon

Ghastlie Blog Hop Day #8

2011-11-01T22:03:00.000-07:00

Just 3 days left, so if you haven't started, now is the time to catch up. Click on the Ghastlie button on the side bar to go to the full schedule. Also, updates on the daily Grand Prize Give Aways are found there. Today please visit these Ghastlie Sisters:

Mrs Jane Ghastlie

Mrs. Laura Ghastlie (sadly she will not be available)

Mrs Mary Ghastlie

Mrs Michelle Ghastlie

Mrs Dawn Ghastlie

Mrs Mary Ghastlie

And if you comment on each of the Ghastlie Sisters blogs today, your name could be entered for this Grand Prize Give Away - This beautiful KONA bundle in PINK is from our very own Jane from Jane's Fabrics.
This is her sweet....giveaway.. Oh and some Presencia threads too!
From her to YOU - so don't be late on Day # 8!

SOMETHING NEW

All you Bonnie Hunter fans - Bonnie's new scrap mystery will begin Nov. 18th. She has the fabric requirements listed so you can start 'gathering' - here for 'Orca Bay'. I have her Quiltville button on the side to take you to this page.

Cat Patches Blog is has a wonderful idea of 'Occupy Your Sewing Room' to help in getting those holiday gifts done. I have the button on the side for you to check things out with Barbara. I know it is going to give me a 'kick'!

CLOSING THOUGHT

Q. Where does a ghost go on Saturday night?
A. Anywhere where he can boo-gie.

Sewingly Yours,