Warm Stitches

Mastering the Art of French Quilting...hum Cooking

2012-01-17T16:46:00.000-08:00

My husband and I are empty nesters. It is common for us to
eat dinner on a tray in front of the television. The last two nights we watched
the movie “Julie & Julia”. Half last night and the second half tonight, the
reason for this is not important.

Watching this movie makes one hungry! So tonight I cooked fish,
not in the French way of sauté with butter but with a little bit of spray ‘Pam’.
We have to watch our cholesterol. I did however drizzle a little garlic
flavored olive oil over the top of the cooked fish. It was pretty good and made
us feel very gourmet'.

Dinner is over and the kitchen clean. He is off to the
basement to finish something. I went to my sewing room to press a few quilt
blocks I made today. I thought about the
movie and Julia Child’s passion for cooking.
Quilters are passionate too.
Quilting is our French cooking. If planned correctly, cut and sewn
accurately the quilt will be a feast for the eyes.

Bon' Appetite'

New York Christmas

2012-01-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

I must say I am glad the holidays are. Not that I didn’t
have a good time but the quite routine of January is smoothing to my soul.

One of the highlights of the holiday season was a trip to
New York City. My daughter made arrangements for herself, my granddaughter and
myself to take a day trip to New York City. We were to ride a bus and have a
day of sightseeing, shopping and see the Radio City Rockettes Holiday
show. We boarded a bus at ‘0 dark 30’,
which is a military term of - before the sun comes up, rode 4 hours to New
York. We had 3 hours before the show to
head for our first destination – The American Girl Store.

It’s an impressive store.
3 floors of dolls and related stuff to spend your money on. I bought my younger daughter an AG doll some
20 years ago from their catalog. She
loved it lot and I enjoyed making clothes for it. A lot of clothes. The company has expanded the original 4
historical dolls to a dozen or more historical and a design your own doll with
color choices. We thought the store
was busy but an employee stated that this was moderate and busy meant you
couldn’t move. This statement made us
think of Disneyland in July.

We walked back to the Rockefeller Plaza and enjoy the store
window displays along then way. We entered the Radio City lobby and were amazed
by the giant crystal chandelier Christmas tree hanging from the ceiling.
Everyone in the lobby had their heads looking up at this amazedly beautiful
sight. To see it was breathtaking and in
addition to its beauty was the fact that it rotated! The whole theater was a look back to the
grace and décor of the 30’s. The inlayed
woodwork on the walls and inside the elevators was eye catching. And we hadn’t even seen the show yet.

The show was terrific and we were ready for 2 more hours
before the bus trip home. The Plaza was
packed with people by this time. The Plaza and the Plaza Christmas tree are so
much larger than it appears on TV.
Additional trees are set along the area and lots of lights. We even saw
one man propose to his girl at ring side of the ice rink. We returned to our bus stop, boarded and
watched the skyline disappear into the distance. The weariness of the day set in and sleep
overtook us for the next few hours. I
think we may make this an annual event.

First Frost

2011-11-09T15:59:00.000-08:00

Scientists speak of people’s need of sunlight to keep up one’s motivation to do things. I agree that on dreary days it’s hard to accomplish anything. The arrival of autumn seems to give quilters a burst of energy. Autumn gives a show of color to inspire great works of quilts.
It’s my opinion that the autumn colors give quilters their peak of creative energy. The cooler weather entices us to use the burst of ‘color energy’ to create a new quilt to snuggle under. As the summer events, family vacations, etc. settle down, it’s now time to quilt in earnest. Many quilt-related activies also happen in the fall, which also inspires our creativity: Houston Quilt Festival being the biggest and well known event amongst many others.

Enjoy the color and let it inspire you to create, quilt, or write about a beautiful quilt.

Autumn colors

2011-10-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

Autumn is in the air! The leaves on the trees are beginning to change color. I put an Autumn quilt on top of my bed. I just finished quilting and binding the quilt this last month. I chose a pattern on my own design. The "Ahoy" pattern that appeared in Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks, Vol. 1. My goal is make the same block in as many layouts as possible.

This quilt has fabrics with leaf prints in bright colors of greens, yellows, oranges, reds all on a cream colored background. It really perks up the room. Like many people I had been collecting the fabric for a while. A year ago I began cutting and sewing. This summer I finished quilting it with a maple leaf design. Now it is on my bed, just in time for these cool nights.

Quilt Show Rained out

2011-09-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

A hot summer and a wet autumn. We can’t seem to get it right. A hurricane and a tropical storm within two weeks left our area water logged. Each year a local historical site - a small plantation- hosts an out door quilt show. Quilts are hung out of doors, speaker’s present lectures, vendors set up tents, and tours are given of the house. The show goes on rain or shine for one Sunday afternoon. It’s a lot of work for one day. The region looks forward to the show has a sign of autumn’s coming.

This year the show has been cancelled. The storms rained several inches over the region and many streets flooded. The park where the show was to be held on is saturated and it would be impossible to set up. The poles for quilt hanging would droop and leave the quilts hanging in the mud. The tent would not hold up and booths would sink. The auto park would be a quad mire of mud with cars becoming stuck. It was the correct decision to make.

The decision was made just a few days before the event. The participates were informed
and the word was placed on the Internet to the local guilds, quilt shops, and etc. The word spread like wild fire among quilters.We will have to wait another year for the next Sully Plantation Quilt Show. Hope the weather is better next year.

What I did on my summer vacation

2011-08-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

What a hot summer we have had, not as hot as the south and mid west, so there is a bright side. A quilting friend of mine as a pool; so along with another quilting friend we try to swim each morning for an hour. Actually we tread water and tell ourselves we are toning our muscles – we know we are not losing weight!

We seldom meet but 2 or 3 times a week due to schedule conflicts, appointments or teaching commitments, etc. We talk about quilting or family. Mostly the water feels good and it is away to connect and give support if needed. Our swimming will come to an end at the end of this month. One of us will have knee surgery and we will shift our activities to the indoor.
Hope your summer has been a memorable one.

A Compliment

2011-07-05T13:59:00.001-07:00

I recently had a wonderful compliment. I received an email from a lady asking for permission to show a quilt made from a pattern I designed. The quilt block is based on an old public domain block. It seams she had made the quilt from a pattern I did for a Windham Fabrics collection – Worn and Loved 2. It was available on the free download section of Windham’s website.

She made the quilt and offered it to an exhibit for the Houston Quilt Festival 2011. Houston Quilt Festival accepted it and it will be on display this fall. By the way, she did ask Windham Fabrics for permission also. We were happy to agree.

Most quilters do not think to ask the designer for permission. Perhaps they do not think it is necessary because they bought the pattern or perhaps fear that the designer will say no. Seldom will the designer say no. It is an ego booster to learn that someone liked the pattern so much that they entered the quilt into a contest or exhibit.
Laura, marketing director of Windham Fabrics, and I look forward to seeing the quilt in person this fall.

Short trip to Holy Land

2011-06-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

I just posted the blog entry I wrote in April. I had written it and saved it on the computer. Sometime the doctor will say, 'don't make any important decisions for X days", and you think "I'm fine." This was example of why you should listen to the doctor.

I am posting a few pictures of the 'short' trip to the Holy Land. The men fishing in the boat are on the sea of Galilee. The sea is really a large lake. I always wonder why the men went out on the water, couldn't they see a Storm brewing? No, the sea/lake is surround by mountains (used to be a volcano) the wind blows through one gap across the water, hits the mountains and bounces back over the water causing the storm and waves. Now it makes sense to this simple mind of mine.

The ancient boat ruin was found a few years ago after a drought lower the sea of Galilee. It was under layers of mud which protected. The archaeologist were pleased to have it tested to the time of Jesus.

Regardless of what ones religious believes are, I hope you enjoy the pictures for the historic time table if nothing else. (my disclaimer)

The hotel we stayed in Jerulasalem had an olive tree in the atrium. They claimed it was from the time of David. Perhaps, nice effect anyway.

Souvenir from the Holy Land

2011-06-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

You may notice a lengthy space of time between this and my last entry. There is a good reason. In mid-February I fell while on a trip to the Holy Land. I broke my left leg and wrist. Both breaks required surgery and I will forever set off metal detectors.

It has been a long recovery process. My focus, as you can image, has been entirely on healing. Looking back I find it interesting that I had little interest in quilting or sewing. Mind you I said ‘little’ not ‘no’. It is only in the last week as my strength has returned and boredom has set in that the desire to quilt has returned. Interesting how the body sets the important priorities.

Finally I am able to wiggle my fingers and slowly type this entry. I wish for you Easter or Passover blessings or if these do not apply I wish you good thoughts to you and all of yours.

I hurt my thumb

2011-01-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

I over used my thumb last and now its swollen and painful. I made a queen size flannel quilt which I am very pleased with but I pushed myself to finished the binding. In fact I then finished the binding on two lap size charity quilts. I now am suffering with a pre carpel tunnel sym. effect. I had hoped the swelling would go down by now. No such luck. Tomorrow I see the doctor.

I have several projects I want to work on, sewing or cutting in out of the question. Even holding a pen to write the monthly checks for bills is painful. Now, I understand the importance of a pose able thumb.

Lesson here is don't push your luck with hand work and wear a support glove. Take care of your body, it's the only one you have .

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2010-12-24T14:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone. I hope you all have your shopping completed and lots of fabric bundles with your name on them under the tree. You may be wondering why this lady is on the computer instead the mall or kitchen. My last gift was wrapped this morning and is tucked under the tree.

Our family will be having Christmas dinner at our daughter and son-in-laws' new home this year. I do not have to cook Christmas dinner! My contributions to the feast have been purchased (Costco makes better pies than I do) and put in the frig. Dinner tonight will be light and easy.

All this preparation left me with a few hours to spend in my sewing room. I am trying to complete some UFO's. If I can complete a few items this season, I might be able to clear some space in my sewing room and that would be a Christmas present to myself.

Once again I wish you a happy holiday with family, friends, and blessings to you in the coming year.

Pearl Habor Day

2010-12-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

Today is the 7th of December, also known to baby boomers as Pearl Harbor day. I was born after the war ended and as with many boomers (as the term implies) my dad served in World War II. He was not at Pearl Harbor nor served overseas. He served as part of the support system in the states. He served proudly and the best of his ability knowing the results would effect the fighting soldiers.

I was and am still proud of him though he passed away many years ago. I have had the privilege of going to Pearl Harbor and visiting the Harbor and Arizona memorial. I can tell you there is never a dry eye when visitors finish the tour.

It troubles me when young people hear a term such as Pearl Harbor day they ask 'what's that?' however they can tell you who won the latest American Idol.

It brings to mind the saying of those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it. I hope not. Anyway have a thought and quick prayer for those who are still serving to keep our way of life.

Room with a Veiw

2010-11-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

There is a room where I look out a window for a few minutes each morning. This window is on the second floor and gives me a view of a huge maple tree. I can admire the seasons by this tree; autumn this year has been especially brilliant with color.

I hadn't expected much in the way of color this year. We had a lock of rain and record heat during the summer month. The maple with stood these problems and gave a beautiful display of color that lasted longer than usual. I have had this particular view for several weeks now.

I wish I could duplicate the depth and richness of color that this tree had. Quilters use fabrics to create depth of color just as paint artists use oils or watercolors do. Even with an array of rich fabrics I fear I could not do the maple justice.

The last couple of days have been breezy and I realized this morning that "my tree" is practically bare of leaves. Perhaps this winter I will try to capture its beauty from the picture in my mind's eye.

I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving.

2010 Houston Quilt Market

2010-11-08T04:33:00.000-08:00

I just returned from the Houston Quilt Market. There is always an energy in the air. New fabrics, gadgets, old friends and new friends being made. Speaking of new 'friends', my friend and I walked out of our hotel to take a taxi. As it turned out Alex Anderson was staying at our hotel and was outside wanting a taxi to the same place as we did. We shared a taxi with Alex Anderson!

My fiend Renelda Peldunas Harter has a quilt, 'Sarajevo Rose', in the 'Text on Textiles' exhibit. That's me by 'Sarajevo Rose'. The text tells of the damage to the streets and walkways made by the motors (bombs) during the war in Bosnia. If persons were killed by the mortar the crater would be filled with a red dyed cement thus giving the crater the look of a rose. Sadly there are too many of these roses.

A sad subject but a nice quilt to honor those involved. Quilts have always been a way for the quilt makert to convey their thoughts or emotions.

More fun stuff in the next entries.

Autumn is in the Air

2010-10-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

Autumn is in the air. It is here and the quilt season is picking up. Several areas around here are having quilt shows. The frenzy of preparing for the Houston Quilt Market and Festival is beginning. Reservations have been made for weeks if not months. Vendors are packing goods and attendees are checking weather forecasts for clothes packing. The excitment is building.

I too am attending Market and Festival. I am looking forward to what will be new in the way of fabrics and notions. I look forward to seeing the quilt exhibits and ponder how I can merge new techniques into my style. I look forward to the opportunity to expand my horizons with the thoughts of these possibilities.

Ladies who Lunch

2010-09-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

Recently I had 'luncheon' with some former coworkers. The four of us have gone our separate ways but still keep in touch. We met at a large grocery store that has its own restaurant. I could sing the praises of this trend but that would be another blog. I will say our meals were excellent.

We talked of what we were currently doing. Our quilting and the quilting world in general. We spoke of the Houston Quilt festival - 2 of us are going this year. We even had some show and tell. I think the few people near us enjoyed this too.

'Jane' bought a quilt that her husband had chosen the fabric for, the 'Roy Rogers' collection. The quilt is inspired, her interpretation of a box television. She used fabric with a wood grain print for the television frame. Black and gray for the TV knobs and for the TV screen the focus fabric of the collection.

scatter about the 'floor' area were applique horse shoes framing vignettes of the collection fabrics The border was completed with cowboy print fabric.

What talent she has and a wonderful tribute to the memories of our youth.

Summer is Here

2010-06-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Summer is here with a force. Even before the offical start of summer the heat had arrived and the air conditioner was kicking into overdrive. We have been doing the usual summer stuff, such as mowing the lawn multiple times a week, cleaning the porch and watching children play now that school is out. I also have raspberry vines that have ripened all at once. But that is a blog story in its self.

One of the projects we have wanted to do for some time was tile the floor of the screened back porch. The floor was indoor/outdoor carpet from the previous owner. We had lived with it for several - make that too many years. So it became the first summer project of this year.

In the late spring my DH "beefed' up the foundation to carry the extra weight of the tile work. Then there was the stripping of the old and laying of the new sub-floor. About now you are wondering what this has to do with quilting.

Now is where my 'training' as a quilter came into the play. It's all about the color. I wanted a netural beige floor as it would help make the area look larger. A bolder color would make the room looker smaller and limit the possibilities to accessorize. I chose a large (16 inch) beige tile and a medium rose-beige grout. Too light of a grout color would blend into a monotone floor and too dark would be all you would notice.

I decided not to lay the tile in a straight horizontal layout but an off-set like brick work. It is much more interesting. After a few days of very hard and dirty work, we have a new tiled floor. After a fresh coat of paint of the half walls, we are pleased with the results.

Again, you might ask what this has to do with quilting; the answer is - probably not much. It took time away from my sewing room but I needed the exercise. I think I have gained confidence in my quilting years to know I can try new things. Color theory has taught me to choose and balance colors for the results I want. In this case, my result was a relaxing area to sit and enjoy a summer morning with a cup of tea.

Spring Market

2010-05-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't been here in more than a month! It's been a busy month. Classes to teach, quilts to make. All of this preparation has been leading up to Quilt Spring Market.

I'm pleased to say that one quilt I made appeared at the Windham Fabrics booth. It was a real treat to hear that it would be traveling to shops across the country as a sample.

Spring Market was very sucessful for all I think. The manfactors had wonderful products and the shops owners seem pleased and willing to shop. Windham's Paisley Panache, Baltimore Album, and Gettysburg collections are sure to please all. The partnership with Jenny Haskins produced "When Flowers Dream" a romantic collection.

Robin Pandoph had three collections showing at market. I should get that much work done in a time period. Currently available is Beach House, a fade pastel collection. Fancy Hill Farm is a holiday collection which will be available in June. Lastly, Rue Saint Germain will be available in September and I can't wait.

I saw an equal variety of civil war reproductions, bright batiks and Asians. #30's era reproductions are making a comeback. Several companies had new collections.

Terra Cotta

2010-04-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

I thought I would write my blog about a recent visit to the National Geographic museum to see the Terra Cotta Warrior exhibit. It was a wondrous experience. I spent the day with my daughter and grandchildren on a chilly but sunny spring day.

The Emperor who created the project was both a genius and mad. Really, mad! He conquered and united China. He also thought that doses of Mercury would extend his life. It didn't.

The exhibit was entirely about the clay figures. Not just the soldiers but musicians, entertainers, horses, and water birds (swans, etc.). All life size. Well not all, as it happens life size horses in clay are too big to fire. They fall apart.

There wasn't a bit of cloth anywhere. But there was a design or two engraved into building bricks that would make great quilting lines.

Spring has arrived

2010-03-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

Today was my quilt guild's monthly bee. We have meetings every month but on the 4th Wednesday of the month we meet at a member's home for an old fashion bee. We bring something to work on as we talk of quilt guild business, accomplishments, disappointments, and children. Today we did all that and more.

The sun was shinning today, it has most of this week. Spring has finally arrived and the daffodils are blooming and the grass is turning green again. It has been a hard winter as it has for most of the country. Lots of snow and ice. We had to cancel several guild events due to weather. We are so happy to see the sun again. It rejuvenates us as it does the earth.

Part of the renewed energy is reflected in planning this year's 'raffle' quilt. The design has been decided and now we are collecting fabric to make the top. Members are volunteering to work on the committee and dates discussed on when to meet.

The lunch break is called and we gather, in this case, to a hearty soup courtesy of our hostess. Side dishes have been bought by us and recipes are shared. Before we know it is time to return to our respective home's, rich with plans and memories. We look forward to the next bee to share life with friends.

Mid-Atlantic Quilt show

2010-03-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I went to the Mid-Atlantic Quilt show in Hampton, Virginia. I go almost every year. The show is a Mansuco production that has held for many years. I go almost every year. The quilt exhibits were top quality. The quilts were beautiful to look at, to admire the fine stitches, and maybe to learn something from. While I did not take any classes this year there are classes to meet every need.

Dozens of vendors were there. Batik and many types of fabrics were available. Notions of every kind were there to stock up on and more types of rulers than I have ever seen. I bought some lovely specially threads.

One trend I noticed was the number of 'raffle quilts' from regional quilt guilds and groups. There must have been a half dozen or more. I was impressed with the number of course but also with the beauty and quality of these opportunity quilts. I spent has much money on these quilts as I spent on the vendors. Knowing that I not only have a chance, slight as it may be, to win the quilt, it is also knowing that I am helping a charitable group and helping a neighboring quilt group.

Cabin Fever

2010-02-12T08:42:00.000-08:00

More snow and more snow. Actually, the snow has finally stopped. Wednesday was the day of snow and wind. Blizzard conditions. We watched the roof of the screened porch very closely. Another 10 inches on top of the 24 inches of the strom before. On Thursday my husband was finally able to get out of the house and put a ladder next to the porch. He was able to shovel all the snow off of the porch roof. What a relief.

The roads were barely passable and I was able to teach my class on Thursday evening. Rest assured we made an early evening as the temperature went down and the ice was forming.

What has all the snow to do with quilting, you ask. The first thought would be all the time one would have for sewing and quilting. Not so! I spent so time much time, between snow storms, outside shoveling the walkway and drive way. I spent more time outside than I do during fair weather. I think I lost 5 pounds this week. Nice but not the way I would prefer to lose it.

In the end, I did get some sewing done. Now, the sun is out and I am going outside once again. To the grocery store.

Warm weather and happy stitches.

Tired of Winter

2010-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Groundhog Day. According to custom, we will have 6 more weeks of winter. Last night it snowed - again. We have had rain or snow every four or five days. Just enough time in between to dig out and come to life again and it (snow) comes again. Its not heavy/deep as the mid section of the country has had, just 5 inches. Enough for neighbors and myself to say... I'm tired of winter and ready for spring.
Recently on one of the better weather days I took a knitting class. I wanted to learn so I could share with my daughter. She knits beautifully. As the daughter of a quilter she has made a couple of quilts but prefers knitting. I can respect that and as such I wanted to understand the terminology and process. I want to share in her passion as she has in mine.
The class was fun and I learned the basics. Now I have a pink knitted square I haven't any idea of what to do with it. That's okay. I feel I can now walk into a yarn shop with her and join in the conversation creating memories for both of us.

'Ahoy' Demonstration

2010-01-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I had a demonstration on the construction of a quilt block. The block was my entry 'Ahoy" which appeared in "Quiltmaker's 100 blocks'. I made several samples each a step further in the process of construction. I also made a quilt top using the 'Ahoy' block. The quilt was a twin size using 30's era reproduction fabrics. If you look through the archives you will see virtual pictures one which is the 30's zig zag layout that I used for the demo. quilt top.

The demonstration went very well. The ladies commented on the ease of construction and liked the fact of various possible layout designs.

I would like to thank the ladies of Haymarket Quilters Unlimited and 'Quiltmaker Magazine' for the opportunities given. I can't wait to make the 'Ahoy' in other fabrics and layouts.

Holiday Memories

2009-12-27T10:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays! I hope you all had a Happy Holiday. Ours was wonderful, our children and grandchildren were here and the 'grand dog' too.

My granddaughter loves 'sock monkey'. That is an understatement. Last fall I found a 'sock monkey' at the Houston Quilt Show s0 that was one gift taken care of. I also had bought 'sock monkey' fabric. I made her a quilt with the fabric and put it and the monkey under the tree. It warmed all of our hearts to see the joy on her face. All afternoon the quilt and monkey were her constant companions.

this is why we make quilts, to make memories. The quilt may be dragged on the floor and shared with the dog. Decades from now the quilt may no longer exist but the memory of this Christmas will stay with her as an old woman and told to her grandchildren.

I hope your Christmas and holidays were memory makers too.

It's Snowing

2009-12-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

It's snowing in Virginia. The first snow of the season. Wet sloppy stuff. No fun at all. It made the drive to the fabric store watchful of the road and the other drivers. I know I should have made the trip the day before or wait another day but I just have to buy the remaining item and finish the project.
The holidays are quickly upon us and I still have two more quilts to finish for Christmas. The outside decorations are up, we did that last week when the temperature was 68. Tomorrow we will start on the inside. I guess I'll get up an hour early next and spend it in the sewing room.

And the winner is...

2009-11-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a wonderful response to the Blog Tour. All the comments were positive and supportive. I made my self leave the house around noon. I kept going to the computer to see if any more visitors had come by. I checked again just before going to bed. It was like Christmas - checking to see if any more presents had been put under the tree.

Ok, here is what you want to know. The winner from CPG Designs, winning a free issue of 'Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks from Today's Top Designers' goes to
Kris Paquette of Michigan. Congratulations.

Enjoy the rest of the week's sites. Happy Quilting

Today is the day!

2009-11-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

Today is the day. I feel like I'm having a very important dinner guest. Oh - I am having an important guest. You!

Welcome! Thank you for coming to the Quiltmaker Blog Tour. I visited the sites yesterday and what fun. Everyone has different style. Please enjoy my blog and be sure to leave your name and address in the comment section. Someone will win a free copy of the '100 Blocks magazine. Your privacy will be respected.

My goal in designing quilt blocks as three points to meet.

First - To focus on the fabric. The beauty of the fabric is often why we bought it.

Second - Designs that are beginner friendly. Experienced quilters will appreciate the quick and easy projects they can create.

Third - Versatile in the types of projects ie. quilts, wall hangings, table runners. The block should have ability to be used over and over again.

Ahoy meets that goal. I have posted here and on the flickr site. http://www.flickr.com./groups/100blocks2009/ some suggestions using the Ahoy block in different fabrics and layouts. I hope it will be just the beginning for your creations. Bon' Appetite.

I am in a magazine

2009-11-07T06:40:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to say that I have a quilt block included in a special issue of 'Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks from Today's Top Designers'. What an honor to be included with some of the well known names in the industry.

As a celebration 'Quiltmaker' is having a Blog Tour. Follow the 100 Blocks Blog Tour daily Nov. 9-13 (Monday - Friday) at http://www.quiltmaker.com/quiltypleasures for inspiration, ideas, and giveaways galore! Look for 100 Blocks from Today's Top Designers in local quilt shop, or purchase it at quiltmaker.com/100blocks. I happen to know there are lots of great giveaways.

I am to be featured on Tuesday Nov. 10th, please visit my website and/ or blog. My website is http://www.cpgdesigns.com/ or here on this blog. A link is on my website to bring you back to this blog. If you go to http://www.flickr.com/groups/100blocks2009/ you will be some great picture of projects connected with this Quiltmaker project.

Come visit me on Tuesday. One visitor will receive a free issue of this magazine. Remember there are 100 blocks - that's 100 possible quilts you could make in the coming year. ;)

Thank a Vendor

2009-10-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

I've been home a week from the Houston Quilt Festival. I have finally caught up on my sleep. Now its time to catch up on everything else.

Festival was an amazing experience. One sees another side of festival as a vendor. First there is a considerable effort vendors put into bringing their products to the attendees. They must arrange for the booth, electric, flooring, and displays. These items have to be planned, arranged, and paid for before the event takes place. Vendors function on faith that the attendees will make it all worth while.

Vendors can spend the season traveling from show to show. Sometimes packing up on Sunday evening and traveling thousands of miles to the next show. Often friendships develop among the vendors on the same circuits, and after a few years friendships between vendors and customers.

So next time you attend a show you might think about thanking a vendor for their effort.

Houston Quilt Market

2009-10-12T20:29:00.000-07:00

It's 10 p.m. and I just finished sewing the binding down on a quilt. There is nothing unusual about that ...except I'm in a hotel room in Houston Texas. Today was the last day of Quilt Market in Houston. All the vendors, manufacturers and designers are packing up and disappearing into the night.

Three days of beauty and function filled the convention floor. We were inspired by the coming treads in color and textures of the fabrics. A return of 'minkee' like fabric is available in great colors and embossed textures. They were stunning. The browns in the animal prints were very elegant. Lots of pastels too.

We saw a lot of pastels, a popular trend of lavenders and chartreuse was noticeable. Earth tones are still popular and very nice. And yet we did see some deep saturated colors. Something for everyone. Watch for Windham's Flannel Rose and Baby collection. Hoffman's Batiks are always to die for.

The Warm and Natural folks are importing a fabric group from the U.K. The group has several collections ranging from oversize flowers, Asian inspired, to Picotage dots. I bought fat quarters of the Picotage dots in Black & White, Rust (the new color trend) & White, Tan & White.

Now why was I binding a quilt in a hotel room in Houston, because I am going to be a vendor of my pattern line at Festival. I need the quilt as a sample. More about Festival later.

Autumn Day on the old Planation

2009-09-22T05:53:00.000-07:00

Sully Plantation in Northern Virginia holds an annual Quilt show each September. It is an outdoor event on the remaining grounds of the historic site. Quilts are displayed, vendors reunited and local guilds host. Children's activies are available with an emphasis on living and quilting in the 'olden days'. Tours are given through the historic 18th century house.

The show is held rain or shine so you know there were a lot of prayers for good wealther. The wealther was perfect. Everyone enjoyed the lovely day.

Late afternoon came and the families and quilters left for home. The staff and vendors packed up their tents and wares and drove away. The home became quiet again, the grounds bare, only the cars on the nearby highway to break the silence. For a few hours the laughter of children and oohs of adults brought the old grounds alive again.

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Can you believe summer is over already? How quickly time goes by each year. I made a promise to myself that I would thoroughly clean my sewing room this summer. Thin out the magazines, pull selves from the walls, well you get the idea. It didn't happen. Big surprise, right.

But I did accomplish some things this summer. I had the surgery for my bum knee. That was a good thing. Knowing that I would be lay up so to speak for a while, I prepared several projects for hand work. I now have several quilts with binding and three small projects that needed hand quilting completed. Later this summer when I was moving around again, I went to work at my long arm Tin Lizzie. Several quilts are no longer in the UFO pile waiting.

This weekend as we celebrate Labor Day, I used the time to put in some labor. I completed a Holiday wall-hanging I have had planned for a couple of years. As the darkness descended I put in the last stitches on the top. Tomorrow I will load it up on the long arm machine. No last minute stitches the night before Christmas.

I will taken a leap of faith this year and entered the world of vending at major quilt shows. Two shows are this month. One is a 'one day show' in this region, the other is the Mancuso Pennsylvania show the 17 -20th of Sept. If you are in the region try to attend. It sounds like it will be a terrific show. I will show you the 'Labor Day' quilt.

Maybe I will get the sewing room cleaned for the Holidays.

Wow

2009-08-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I posted on my facebook that I had been accepted to vendor at two major shows. In the last two days I have amazed at the response I have gotten from people. Happy news is always welcomed weather it is yours or someone else's. It warms the heart.

For those of us over...30, its is always surprising the vastness and speed of technology. I have connected with high school friends and the childhood neighbors.

So, thank you for the warm wishes. I hope to see you at the Pennsylvania show and Houston Festival. Stop by a say "Hi".

A New Generation

2009-08-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

Recently I taught a small group of young ladies (10 years) how to sew a tote bag. The bag had a nine-patch front and was lined. I could and did make a sample in a couple of hours. The class consisted of two sessions of three hours each. We needed every minute.

This class was no exception to any other class I have taught or been a student of, young or old. One student hasn't any experience at all. She needs extra time to be shown the basics of the sewing machine and sewing tools. Do not misunderstand, I am not criticizing, she simply hasn't experience.

Another student has experience and is usually two steps ahead of the rest of the class. Sometimes this can be fortunate as she may help another student if the need arises.

I find it interesting that all students have "strenghts. It may be an eye for color, natural ability at the machine, or a strong desire. What is interesting is which "strenghts" lies with which person. The student that may need extra help may have the strong desire. She will not give up. The speedy student may have the eye for color.

By the end of the first session they have doubts about this project. Sewing a straight line is harder than they thought. The frustration of ripping seams apart when one square is sewn backwards shows in long sighs.

The end of the class results in completed tote bags. The pride shows in their faces. Showing-off their tote bags to all who will look: they talk of plans to make more bags for family and friends.

So begins another generation of sewers and quilters.

2009-07-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I am recovered from knee surgery. Just about. A simple procedure but I hobbled around for a while. Still can not get on my knees so someone else will have too clean to the shower for a while yet. Gee I won't mind that.

I did plan ahead for the down time I would have recovering. I had 2 quilts ready for hand sewing the bindings, and several small wall hanging ready for hand quilting. I read a couple of books too. I should be this organized all the time I would accomplish so much more, maybe I would have fewer UFO's. But then I wouldn't be a true quilter without UFO's, right?

I have resolved to make better use of the time left this summer. Time goes by too quickly to say tomorrow is another day.

2009-06-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome All,

Try the free download pattern for your "Daily Fruits and Veggies" table runner. http://www.box.net/files#0:f:29226792

This pattern will make up beautifly with wonderful fabrics featuring fruits and vegetables that are now available. The pattern features a table runner but also try one block to create a place mat.

Enjoy the summers bounty all year long.

Spring Market in Pittsburgh

2009-05-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

Well, that was exciting. I have never been to Pittsburgh before and I drove 4 hours to get there. I have never cared for city driving before. I sure was glad to have the GPS to guide me. Once there it was easy to drive to the covention center and back to my hotel.

Pittsburgh has a wonderful convention center. It is next to the river and a train bridge runs across the river. You can almost reach out and touch it. Yet you cannot hear it inside the center.

Market is always exciting with the colors, new items unveiling, and anticipation in the air. I thought there were fewer booths than fall market but that is usually true of spring. I noticed several new vendors at this market. It is a brave soul who sets up here for their first market, not knowing what to expect.

People were shopping though. I thought that the fabric collections this season were exceptionally good. Every manufacturer had several 'must haves'. Hoffman's Red Hots, Maywood's black and gold paisley, and too many more to mention. I also heard several authors speak about their new books.

Lesley Riley has a new book 'Fabulous Fabric Art with Lutradur'; very interesting how she has used a product usually used for something else and adapted it for textile art. It can be a cross-over for Art,quilts, or scrapbooks. That's why it got my attention.

I think the months to come will challenge us to choose from the many wonderful fabrics and notions that will be available to us. Keep stitching.

Spring Market

2009-05-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

I am getting ready to go to Pittsburgh for the Quilt World's Spring Market. Market is the trade show for the quilting industry. It is always exciting to see what will be the new 'hot' tread in fabrics or notions.

Preparing to go has almost as much logistics as the vendors who attend. Are the preparations made at home. The extra meals and ironed shirts for 'hubby'. Printing out brochures and business cards and of course what am I going to wear!

Tomorrow I pack the car and head north for the long weekend. Tell you all about it next week!

Welcome to Warm Stitches

2009-04-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog! I am all about quilting. I have loved quilting longer than I have loved my DH and that is 40 years!

I have been a serious quilter for 30 years. I am a quilt teacher and design quilt patterns with the beginner in mind. I have a web site that I invite you to visit. It is my hope to use this blog to share the interests and happenings in the quilt world. So, lets start.

Recently, at a local quilt guild meeting Morna McEver Golletz gave a lecture on Studios. Her presentation had pictures of several well known artists studios. It is always interesting to see the environment that others use to create their work.

We, the audience hope that we will find clues to help us become more organized or creative. In fact, as it is usually the case, they are just like ourselves. Suggestions were given about rolling carts, shelf units, and designs walls. Some do have spacious rooms with every bin and shelf labeled. But many have space limitations or storage challenges for overflowing fabrics just like us. One artist has a small space in her master bedroom and must clear the area each night.

The program was fun, informative and most of all reminded me of the saying...'where there is a will, there is a way'.

Keep quilting and warm stitches,
Carolyn
www.cpgdesigns.com