QuiltingMelodies

Vintage Find!

2012-02-05T08:04:00.001-07:00

I found the most wonderful vintage quilt!!

I have always wanted a Grandmothers Flower Garden. This one is done in 30's feedsack fabrics and is in perfect shape. Makes me think of spring!

Love, Love Love.....

Happy Winter!

(Couldn't it be over already?)

Angie

Buggy Barn Churndash Done!

2012-01-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

Here it is! I have had this one on simmer for a year or two. For all of you out there that know me...I know it is not my colors! (I gravitate to more of the bright pinks, oranges, reds and yellows.)

But I love it anyway, like this cute guy who can't stay off my quilt.

I know my pup Charlie likes it...uggg! I couldn't keep his little paws off of it. Bless his furry little heart....

Happy Sewing!

Angie

My new pattern!! Springtime Melody

2011-12-15T17:40:00.001-07:00

It's here!!

I am so excited

to announce that today is the

official release of my latest quilt pattern

'Springtime Melody.'

Isn't it a happy quilt?

It has a little embroidery, piecing and applique (ok -quite a bit of applique). I had so much fun designing this one and making it. I have the pattern for sale as of today in my Etsy shop, so hop on over and take a look.

Happy sewing!

And

Happy Holidays!

Angie

Log Cabin Table Runner

2011-11-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

I have been working like crazy to finish this little runner to pass on as a gift in my quilt group. Would you believe this is my first table runner. I don't know about you but my table is always full of papers and stuff that gets left there by the numerous -"I didn't leave it there"- people that live in my house. Basically you might never see a runner if I put one on my table--so therefore no need to make one. Right?

Anyway, this one was really fun. I used a handful of my scraps and a little imagination and poof...its a runner.

Amazing Pie Party

2011-11-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

I was invited to my first pie party and wow!

Janet aka the Pie Lady from Indiana was here in Utah visiting her children over the Thanksgiving holiday. She hosted an amazing assortment of home made pies...enough to fill a table and serve 100 guests.

She baked for several days with her daughter making upwards around 30 pies of all kinds....chocolate, dutch apple, candybar, rhubarb, cherry, german chocolate...and many many more! After tasting samples enough to fill my plate, I felt the pounds inch their way on to places they shouldn't be --but it was soooo worth it!! Cardio workout here I come.

This is my cute daughter who volunteered (begged really) to go along with me. We had a yummy time!

Have a happy day!

Angie

Kentucky Retreat

2011-11-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

Just got back to Cincinatti, Ohio after spending a week just outside of Louisville Kentucky at an amazing quilt retreat. The house we stayed in has 8 bedrooms, 4 baths and a huge area set up just for quilting.

This house had everything a quilter could want. Where is everyone you ask?...well everyone opted not to be in my photo. Could it be because you might spy a glimpse of the quilting frenzy in their eyes, or tosseled hair, or maybe the droopy eyes from lack of sleep? Maybe they want to hide the ten extra pounds we all put on after all of the huge meals and junk food. Nobody will ever know. And I am sworn to secrecy!!

I did however get a snapshot of a couple of us together outside the Louisville Temple.

Tomorrow I am heading home to my own bed and my family who really missed me (not).

Happy Quilting!

Angie

Witches Day Out

2011-10-28T22:06:00.000-06:00

It was a Whimsical Witch Party!! Another crazy fun party hosted by Cindy Bohn. I got my invitation for the party a couple of weeks ago and I have to tell you I was sooo excited!

I love a chance to dress up and party with these girls. I put together a marvelous witch costume and rode my magical broom (ok my car..) right up there.

There were even little bats and bugs frozen in our ice cubes (not real of course.)

It was a day of spells, homemade marshmallows, yummy soup and homemade breadsticks. Cindy really knows how to add all of the right touches.

Happy Halloween!!

Angie

Chatting with Nancy Halversen

2011-10-19T21:55:00.000-06:00

At our quilt meeting tonight we were welcomed by a fabulous guest, national quilt and fabric designer Nancy Haversen.

We got a peek at her new pattern book 'Bittersweet" and chatted with her about how she got started, and about how she creates her fabric lines and books. Can I say very interesting? She is so creative and talented!! It was a great evening. Oh, and thank you whoever brought the carmel popcorn. Yummy!

Happy Quilting!

Angie

Happy October!!

2011-10-09T17:18:00.001-06:00

Wow, I think it is time I posted. Alot has been going on. First of all, I attended Quiltfest in Provo, Utah a couple of weeks ago and learned some fabulous new things!!

I took a class on blocking quilts by Helen Butler. Might I say she is really fun to take a class from. I made wool pincushions 'till midnight and then attended a class on hand applique. I know....I know....I already know how to hand applique but we can always learn something new.... Right? Whola, and I did!

Francine Berrett taught the class and is currently the president of the Utah Valley Quilt Guild. Here are my applique blocks I have been finishing. The main color of the quilt is red with big turquoise flowers that PoP. I can't wait to get it done.

Second, we have had a couple of new additions to our family.

Itchy and Charlie.

They are babies of our Pomerainian mix and my children won't let me find new homes for them. We had tears and all. They are so sweet and this is what they do when I am not home....

That would be a large spool of Aurifil thread. Yup. They are partners in crime.

Have a Happy Day!!

Angie

Wizard of Oz ribbons

2011-08-10T17:41:00.001-06:00

How cute are these!!?? I found these ribbons in a store on etsy. They are Wizard of Oz hair ribbons for little girls.....yes ribbons. Made entirely of ribbons! There are some talented people out there. She also has darling princess ribbons. The Little Mermaid and Tinkerbell are too cute. If you want to see them you can pop on over to her store and take a peek. I am thinking I may have to buy some for my favorite little girl (or for myself).

Have a Happy Day!!

Angie

Schools Out!

2011-07-16T11:54:00.000-06:00

My sweet friend Diane retired this year from teaching at the school I work at.

She was not only a teacher but my mentor and trainer for Title One Tutoring. She has taught me all that I know about teaching children to read and improve their reading.

As a thank you for being so awesome and for giving so much of herself to help and teach kids (including my son who cried when he left her class) I pieced and hand appliqued a quilt just for her titled 'Schools Out.' The pattern is by Barbara Jones of Quilt Soup.

Many other people helped painstakingly do the hand quilting in just 2 weeks! Diane loved the quilt!! She is worth it!

Happy Quilting!

Angie

Country Inn by Blackbird Designs

2011-06-23T10:46:00.003-06:00

I've got it!! I have been wanting this book for quite some time and I finally got it!

Blackbird Design's put out a wonderful book called

Country Inn.

Not only does this gem have the pattern for the applique quilt on the front (which is on my list to make for myself) but it also has recipes for homemade Strawbeery Jam, Date and Walnut Scones, Egg Casserole,Apple Rollups and many other country recipes. Ummm!

Can't wait to bake up a couple of those yummies!

Happy Sewing! (and baking..)

Angie

Cutter Quilt- What to do?

2011-06-03T09:19:00.001-06:00

*My Vintage Cutter Quilt*

What is a cutter quilt? For those of you asking this question--A cutter quilt is a vintage (or just worn out) quilt that has small holes, stains, or have seams that are coming undone. I found this one online and snatched it up. It was perfect for my project!

I cut... (I know - even though I am not emotionally attached to this quilt -it made me cringe!)

As I was saying....I cut the quilt to fit the size of the inside area of my picture frames + about 1" around. I tautly wrapped the quilt piece around the cardboard insert behind the glass and taped it to it with duct tape. Then I just used the tape to secure it in the frame. Add a hanger and

There you go!!!

It's a set of vintage quilt pictures for

my quilt room!

Happy Summer

Happy Quilting!!

--Angie

Giveaway Winner!

2011-05-27T08:21:00.000-06:00

Congrats to Leigh of Sleepytime Sewing. She is the winner of my Giveaway Day drawing for 'The Patchwork Path' book. Thank you for all of your fabulous comments. It was fun to read them all!

Have a Happy Day!!

Angie

Giveaway Day!!

2011-05-23T14:59:00.006-06:00

I have a copy of the book The Patchwork Path shown in the post below that I am giving away. Please leave a post about your favorite quilt block (pattern) and why. I would love to hear from you!

Happy Quilting!

Angie

Also----Please make sure to leave your e-mail or webpage so that I can contact you if you win. I will accept comments until May 26th at 11pm Mtn time. I will ship my item by May 30th.

Underground Railroad Pachwork Book

2011-05-10T13:59:00.000-06:00

I found this great book.

It is written for children but I thought it would be really fun to make the quilt.

All of the blocks are ones that you can find free patterns to including the 'monkey wrench', 'bear's paw', log cabin' , 'flying geese' etc.

If you would like to find a copy it is titled 'The Patchwork Path' by Bettye Stroud.

The story is about a little girl who,

with her loved ones,

follows the quilt block clues to go north away from slavery.

Happy Quilting!

Angie

By the way, thanks to all of you who came and saw me at the show. It was a great success! I had alot of fun!!

Don't miss the HMQS Quilt show 2011

2011-04-29T16:36:00.002-06:00

Come on out and see all the amazing quilts at the HMQS Quilt Show,

May 5th thru 7th. Quilting Melodies will be one of the featured designers including a display of numerous 'Chocolate Bliss' quilts.

I will be there to get to meet quilters on Thursday from 10-5 pm. Stop by and get a chocolate treat.

Show Hours:

Thursday, May 5th......10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday, May 6th......10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday, May 7th......10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

                          See You There!

                                   -Angie

Miniature Quilts

2011-03-22T16:16:00.003-06:00

My thoughts have always been that Mainature Quilts are wonderful- but who wants to make one!? Right.

Well, never say never.

I was inspired this month by my friend Robyn who has a passion for miniature quilts. She gave a trunk show af all of the the tinys that she has made and I fell in love with them. So, I took the challenge and made one--I mean 8 of them. They were alot of fun! These little 6" goodies are going to be for my QFF quilt girls to hang on their little clothespin stands.

Would you like to take the challenge? Robin says you can shrink any (most any) quilt pattern down and make a mini. Here is what I did....

I started with 1" strips

I used a small 30's print, a neutral cream and a solid (cream or red depending on what I had)

I strip pieced them to make 9 patches then attached them together with a 1" spacer.

I bordered the tiny tops with a neutral or solid and used a thin batting in between the top and back. (You could use a piece of flannel too)

The binding I used was a single binding at 1 1/4" wide.

I machine quilted them each with an X through the center but you could definately quilt them really cute!

And there you go!

If you'd like to see some Robyns trunk show head on over to Patchwork Posse and take a look. (You may need to scroll down a couple of posts.)

Have a Happy Day!!

Angie

Sweet shopping

2011-02-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

I got to have a little shopping therapy today. A yummy stop at the candy store for some home-made taffy then to one of my favorite quilt stores- Quilt Etc. for some Aurifil thread to finish my applique project.

What a sweet day!!

Have a happy day!

Angie

Where's my groove!

2010-12-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

I do believe that I may have temporarily lost my quilting groove.......what, how can that be?! I have hardly quilted for a good 3 or 4 weeks. The terror! The shame! Where did it go!? It took a while to find it but it snuck back as quick as it left.

After my quilt group Christmas parties, I am feeling quite inspired. One finished quilt for my honey and I am back to stitching and pressing. Yea!

When life gives you scraps- make a quilt!

Have a Happy Holiday All!

Merry Christmas.

Angie

Field Trip! Where Women Create Studio

2010-11-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

Field trip!!! Our quilt group got an amazing opportunity to tour the studio of Jo Packham, creator of Where Women Create magaine.

As you can see it is a truly inspiring work space.

Jo and her staff treated us to delicious treats of homemade hot cocoa and specialty cupcakes before they wisked us down 25th street to show us a couple of stylish new boutiques.

If you would like to check out their magazine you can head over to www.WhereWomenCreate.com or get your own copy at a craft magazine rack near you. I love it!

Thanks girls for an amazing day!

Angie

Busy, Busy

2010-11-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

I realize it has been Forever since I posted. So here I am! I had a fabulous time over the QuiltFest weekend! Quilt Fest was held in Midway, Utah this year. It is a managerie of classes, judged quilts and vendors.

Quilt Fest also does fundraising for breast cancer awareness. They have drawing for quilts and pillows and framed pictures all made from blocks donated by local guilds. They are all bright pink of course. This year I was so excited to win one of the quilts. Of course, I passed it on to my mom who was just diagnosed with cancer. She loves it! A perfect tender mercy!

So it was first the show- then a retreat in Duschene, Utah at Janice's cabin.. Where is Duschene? you ask! Go west of Park City about another hour and a half. There it is. Little bitty town!

At a cabin in the middle of nowhere I nestled in, the fridge full of food, with my best girlfriends- and my lovely sewing machine Ellie. Need I say more?

Have a happy day!

Angie

Dreaming of Oz Pattern Reveal

2010-08-27T21:30:00.001-06:00

Here it is--- finally done!! The big reveal of my new pattern "Dreaming of Oz"
This is my version of a Wizard of Oz quilt.

I just finished the pattern and got the copyright finished.

As you can see it's made out of the Moda Oz fabric (coincidentally).

What more could you want than your own pair of Dorothy's slippers, a little dog named Toto and a field of bright Poppies. If you would like to make this quilt, you can look for the pattern on my etsy store in the next day or so. And remember, as Dorothy told the scarecrow,

"There Is No Place Like Home!"

Mystery Tea Party

2010-08-07T09:15:00.044-06:00

Monday I was invited to a Mystery Quilt Tea Party. This was my first mystery party and I have to say it was probably the craziest fun party I have ever been to!!

The setting was a missing prize winning quilt....

And seven suspicious quilters...

But which one of these crazy ladies could have done it??

(My money is on the Pink lady)

After finger pointing and accusing...it was apparent who

hoisted the quilt.... dun dun dun....

(But why share and ruin the surprise!)

We followed with a quilt show of our own.

We enjoyed ginger scones, keish with blueberry sauce, fruit kabobs and sipped mint water and lavender pink lemonade.

Mmmmm.

Wish you were all there.

Have a happy day!

Angie

Great idea! Temple Hankies

2010-08-06T17:34:00.005-06:00

I have a great website for embroidered LDS Temple hankies! I have one myself and they are really nice quality hankies. Ok- so I know you are wondering-- Yup, Toni is one of my awesome friends here in Utah.

If you are interested in what Toni has, check out her web site http://www.tonishankies.com/
Cute stuff!!!

Have a happy day!

Angie

No More Crankiness

2010-07-28T17:04:00.001-06:00

Yea! My Cranky Quilt top is DONE! and I Love it.

Have a happy Day!

Angie

Etsy Sale!

2010-07-24T11:47:00.009-06:00

In Utah the 24th of July is a holiday celebrating our founding fathers, the pioneers. In celebration of their handmade items- thru the end of July- I am offering $3.00 off any item in my Etsy store priced over $5.00. Doesn't that sound fabulous!!!??

Click on my Etsy store to the left to see what you could be missing! Please send me a quick e-mail when purchasing and mention my blog then I will reimburse you the difference.

Happy 24th of July!

Angie

UPDATE! Sale ended Saturday.
Thanks for everyone that visited my etsy store. Come back and visit soon!!

Burn Test Update and Chart

2010-07-21T12:46:00.004-06:00

I was so excited! Recently I had a huge bin of fabric donated to me!

Always a YEA!

But because much of it is vintage, I don't know the fiber content...like is it cotton or is it cotton/polyester....or rayon? You get the idea..

So I found this burn test chart to help me out and I wanted to share with everyone because it is so awesome!

Peanut travels the world!

2010-07-13T13:24:00.009-06:00

Meet Stanley and Molly!

We refer to them as the twins.

They are somewhat distant cousins to little Peanut.

They told me they love to travel so I am sending them off.

Stanley is on his way to Wyoming today (I think he is a stow away in someones bag..hee hee) and Molly is going to L.A. in two weeks.

She promised to send pictures of all the best sights. As for Stanley I hope he gets to see daylight at all.

So the their journeys begin...

If you want to make your own Peanut check out Beckys website Patchwork Posse for instructions and a pattern. Then submit your own photos to the fliker group and share your story.

Have a happy summer!

Angie

One More Chocolate Quilt

2010-07-11T22:11:00.002-06:00

Yipee! I finished a new chocolate quilt! This one is hand appliqued and hand quilted. Can you say sore fingers? ...at least it is one more off my list! And I love it!

Surprising Fabric Burn Test

2010-07-10T16:40:00.009-06:00

Who says science is boring !!??

As a project for my science class I am currently taking I decided to burn something I have a large supply of...fabric! Wow.. it proved to be interesting and fun.

...

And I got to burn fabric!

...

(but children don't try this at home! it can be very dangerous!! save it for science class)

My experiment consisted of 2" squares of various fabrics....natural and synthetic. Did you know rayon is a natural fiber made from wood pulp????? I just found that out.

Anyway, I took pieces of wool, cotton, silk, rayon, nylon, polyester and a piece that was a blend of poly/cotton.

With a lighter I lit each on fire in small metal dishes. I was surprized by my results!

Cotton---- burnt at 180 degrees F and burnt for 100 seconds (1.4 Minutes)

Wool------ burnt at 169 " " and burnt for 2.7 seconds

Silk------- got to 109 " " and would not ignite

Rayon---- burtn at 324 " " and burnt for 54 seconds (HOT!)

Nylon ---- got to 142.8 " " and melted/ would not ignite

Polyester - burnt at 103 " " and burnt for 12 seconds slightly melting

Poly/ Cotton blend-------WOW! HOT!! burnt at 405 degrees F and burnt for 37 seconds.

........

So.......Looking at these results and knowing the worst burns would come from higher heat and longer exposure to your skin if you were to wear these fabrics when they caught on fire ...I decided I want to wear more silk!!!!!

...

I'd say watch out for that Cotton, Rayon and Especially that poly/ cotton!!!

(although ya can't discourage me about those awesome cottons! I will still be using that wonderful cotton for my quilts)

....

Leave me a comment and Let me know what you think

Have a happy day!

Angie

Quilting Day and Bag Pattern

2010-07-06T21:08:00.003-06:00

We had another fun quilting day in our Other Group! Becky, Marilyn, Julie and Janice make it so fun.

I finished another bag from my Cassie Bag Pattern. This one has a pocket and a rosette that are not on my pattern but are so cute I really should add them.

Have a happy Day!

Angie

Remembering Dave

2010-07-04T16:31:00.006-06:00

This is Dave,

my honeys little brother who tragically died 15 years ago in the Grand Canyon during a scout hike. He would be 30 today.

Out for a week long scout trip, the troop had run short on water and almost all of them perished. Dave was a hero who shared what he had left of his own water to save his friends. He was a lively kid who had his life cut short because of his selflessness and love for others. He is definately an inspiration to me!

...

Live every day like it is your last, don't hold grudges and willingly serve others!

...

Have a great 4th of July!!

...

Angie

New pincushions

2010-06-26T11:12:00.002-06:00

With all of the craziness over, I found a moment to finish a couple of new pincushions for my shop. The Oz fabric looks so cute with the red wool flower on top, don't cha think?

Have a happy day!

Angie

Reception Time!

2010-06-15T17:05:00.005-06:00

My daughter is finally married and we are throwing her a big reception bash this weekend! Ok- by big I mean how ever many can fit in a 1/2 acre back yard but it really is going to be very nice.

I have been sewing aprons for the serving girls---finishing scrapbook pages for the guests to sign and hunting high and low for me a dress! Doesn't anybody make a cute dress that is modest and at least to the knees and that is not a size zero??? Not an easy task to find one even here in Utah. But...I did! Yea!!!

Here's a peek at the scrapbook pages I did. They are soo cute. I think scrapbooking and quilting really go hand-in hand.

Have a Happy Day!

Angie

Quilting in Idaho

2010-06-11T11:54:00.018-06:00

Yesterday Becky from Patchwork Posse, Julie and I packed up and headed north to Idaho.

Destination: Declo

We were invited by the local guild and Julie's aunt, to their small town just south of Burley, to give a trunk show and demonstration on our quilts and patterns. What a fun day!!

I showed off all my quilts including my Chocolate quilt and my new Wizard of Oz quilt (Pattern will be out about the first of July...yipee!) and then shared some of my favorite quilting gadgets like my Jillily Applique Glue and my size 11 Bohin Applique Needles. If you don't have these- they are fabulous!
I also raved about the 100% Cotton Aurifil Applique thread that I love! With these three things together my hand applique is amazing-- my stitches are almost invisible.

We had little giveaways.... and a chocolate make-n-take project... and more giveaways... and chocolate...and a pincushion make-n-take... What more could you ask for !?

After a yummy lunch of salads, pizza, soup and homemade desserts we were given a peek at the projects that the guild has been working on and their own show and tell. They have been passing around round-robins and had them there to show. They were so wonderful. They have some great quilters!

Then it was on to the Gathering Place in Rupert, Idaho. Can you believe they have 15000 bolts of fabric?

Look at this great window display!

And all the fabric!!

The Gathering Place was even one of the shops featured in the latest America Quilts Magazine. And I know what you are thinking--of course we had to find one or two new pieces of fabric to add to our stash.

Wish you were all there. It was a great day!

Happy Quilting...

Angie

Cindy the Goat

2010-05-29T11:35:00.006-06:00

Meet Cindy.

She is a goat at the farm where my daughter rides horses that thinks she is a dog. She is soooo sweet until she is caught gnawing on the lead ropes.

2010-05-29T11:29:00.002-06:00

Isn't it supposed to be 80 degrees and summer by now.....Can you believe we got snow at the end of May !?

Last week we had flakes as big as quarters and we ended up with 1/2 inch of snow. I am sure my flowers were saying "What ?"

Moda Oz Teaser...

2010-05-11T17:02:00.009-06:00

Here is another teaser with my Moda Oz fabric. I love it!! My quilt top is almost finished!

In the mean time I have a few photos to share from this last weekend at the HMQS Quilt show in Salt Lake. May I say that the machine quilting on some of these is incredible. Something to aspire to someday ( should I get a quilting machine to call my own.)

Look what I found while wandering at the show...

a quilt from my Chocolate Pattern!

It is done so cute!

Have a happy day!!

More AQS Pictures

2010-05-06T21:56:00.007-06:00

Here are a few more of those beautiful quilts in the Paducah AQS Show.

Kids with diabetes

2010-05-03T18:12:00.006-06:00

I wanted to share a video with everyone. If you scan down to the very bottom you will see it. Just click on it to watch.

If you didn't know, my 12 yr old son was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes at age 6. He will be insulin dependent for his entire life unless scientisits one day find a cure. Although there is no cure yet- ongoing research is amazing!! I have done alot of reading up on new breakthroughs and they are getting close. I just wanted to help educate those of you who are unaware. This video is great--such cute kids!

AQS Quilt Show In Kentucky

2010-04-29T22:47:00.009-06:00

Whew! I am back!

I had a great week last week in Paducah, Kentucky at the AQS quilt show/retreat. I even brought back pictures of some of my favorite quilts. The best of show below actually came from Roy, Utah made by Sue McCarty.

Go ahead and take a looksy and enjoy!

Above is the 2010 Best of Show!! This is all machine stitching- no piecing or applique! Isn't it amazing? I wish I would have taken a closer shot.

This one above is a quilt entered in the maching quilting division. It is amazing also!

Crochet Dishtowel Pattern

2010-04-03T13:17:00.006-06:00

This weekend, as I am sitting and enjoying conference I decided that I would find a handwork project. I got this great 100% cotton yarn from Sugar -n- Cream and this morning I whipped up a couple of dish rags. They are so great for washing dishes and are surprizingly absorbant. Here is the pattern I stitched...

This pattern is simply rows across,

.........................................................................................................................

ch 45

row 1- ch 2 more-this will be the first stitch of the second row.

count in and do a single crochet(sc) in the third chain. ch 1, skip a stitch in the original chain and sc in next stitch. ch 1, continue to end of row unitl you have come to end of ch and do sc in last ch.

row 2- ch 2 and repeat as last row to end.

row 3- ch 3, skip 1st stitch and double crochet (dc) in next stitch. ch 1 and repeat to end of row.

rows 4 thru 19 repeat same as row 1.

rows 20,21- repeat same as row 3

rows 22-36 - repeat same as row 1

row 37 - same as row 3

row 38,39- same as row 1 to edge

ch 2, sc then ch 1 across entire edge to finish around all four sides.

......................................................................................................................

Love these towels. I think I may need to make me more!

Have a happy easter!!

Hint: Moda Oz Fabric

2010-03-28T17:22:00.005-06:00

Have you seen this cute fabric? It is the foundation fabric for my new quilt I am creating as a pattern. Thats pretty much your only hint....

But watch for my next installment when I may preview one or two of my new blocks..

Have a Happy Day!!

Havn't posted in a while...

2010-03-22T18:32:00.003-06:00

Sorry, I havn't posted for a day or two (or week). Sometimes life gets so crazy! Still perkin along getting projects done... hopefully have some show and tell in a day or two. I'm also working on that next pattern...whew it's alot of work! Can't wait to share!

In the meantime, have a happy spring!

Old Snowflake Pattern

2010-03-06T14:17:00.006-07:00

I am so excited because I got a new (old) pattern today in the mail. It is a copy of an old newspaper snowflake pattern (btw--it is one that is old enough not to be copyrighted anymore, whew!)

The story goes---My mom saw an antique quilt made with embroidered snowflakes while she was in Kentucky. She zipped me a picture and I loved it!

I wrote her back and asked her to buy the quilt for me, but by the time she got back to the antique store, it was gone...

I was so close!

So, next best is just to make my own.

The pattern, I got on e-bay and the gal sent me a disk with 12 different snowflake patterns.
Now...I know I said I didn't want to start any more quilts till I got some done...but come on....it is so cute.... I guess my quilt will power is weak.

Have a happy day!

Giveaway winner!

2010-03-02T20:05:00.007-07:00

After scientifically drawing names (from a bowl),

...the winner of my giveaway is .... Renee G.

Thanks for all of your comments and for visiting my blog!

Of course, if you would like your own copy, check back for more giveaways or visit my etsy store. And... If you mention my blog when you order I will take $3.oo off the price of the Chocolate Bliss Pattern. Yea!

Happy sewing!

Cookie Decorating Night

2010-02-28T21:57:00.004-07:00

A few days ago Tiff and I took a mini class at a neighbors house on cake decorating. And yes it was in a garage... and if you are worried... our tables and supplies were perfectly clean.

We did a good job on the cookies but me- not so much on making roses.

In fact, the peak of our excitment was when my rose(or what was supposed to be one) flew off my little decorating platform as I twirled it to add another petal and Tiff caught it as it whizzed by.

Had to be there for that one!

At least we had alot of fun and ate lots of frosting!!

Quilt Night Apron

2010-02-27T21:23:00.005-07:00

I finished my half apron project from one of my local quilt groups. Most of the girls made them at our quilt night but I saved mine till I got home. I have a hard time using other peoples sewing machines. It's kind of like driving someone elses car.

Anyway...This pattern was fast and actually quite easy. And the fabric we were given is actually vintage fabric strips. I love it! Wouldn't it be cute as a little girl skirt?

Have a happy day!

Still time..

2010-02-25T13:07:00.002-07:00

Yea!! There is still time too enter to win a copy of my pattern. Leave a comment below and you could be the lucky one! The winner will be drawn on the 28th of Feb.

'till then,

Happy sewing!

Angie

February Chocolate Quilt Pattern Giveaway!

2010-02-18T22:02:00.005-07:00

I am giving away a copy of my Chocolate Quilt Pattern this Month (picture of quilt is on the top right of my blog) ..of course, because February is all about chocolate!!

I am also excited to announce that I will be appearing at My Heritage Quilts on Saturday to help with the chocolate block of the month - starring my pattern! Yea! This has been such a fun pattern to create.

So-- if you would like your own copy just leave me a comment and don't to forget to click to be a follower for an extra chance. I will pick one random winner on February 28th.

Have a happy day!

Free Chart: Basic Measurments for Buying Quilt Backs

2010-02-15T13:07:00.008-07:00

How much fabric should you buy for your quilt back and binding?

When you come across that fabulous bolt of fabric this printable chart should help. I keep a copy handy in my wallet to reference in time of need.

You can print yourself a copy of this chart for you to use too. For wallet size chart: copy and paste chart into a word program and resize to whatever size you want.

Happy fabric shopping!

How much is a dress length in the 1800's?

2010-02-12T18:01:00.005-07:00

In the 1800s(maybe even longer) it was common to buy fabric in what was called a dress length. But...how long is that!?

I have honestly wondered this for quite a while after seeing it on period movies and tv shows. Well, it's like trying to find out what consumption really was... who to ask.... so I sent the question out to the web. The best answer I could come up with was from an English website that says it is a measure of 5 and 3/4 yards. Of course, I think they actually use the metric system in England for measuring but I have no idea how that translates to meters.

So...mystery solved! Yea! Now I can sleep better at night not laying awake wondering...(ok that's a little dramatic isn't it) But if you are ever offered to buy a dress length, now you know.

Happy sewing!

New Cassie Bag Pattern On PatchworkPosse

2010-02-08T14:18:00.008-07:00

Here is the full reveal for my new pattern-

The Cassie Bag.

This is an exclusive pattern I designed for the PatchworkPosse online quilt group. It is available free to members and available in my store in June. This bag is fun to make and pick out co-ordinate fabrics for.

Here is Becky's version of the Cassie Bag. I love the

red print! So cute!

happy sewing!

Round Robin Show

2010-02-04T14:27:00.004-07:00

Last weekend our quilt group girls headed north to Brigham City (Utah) to the Kaye Evans Round Robin quilt show. She is a local quilter who wanted to share the quilts she has aquired in round robin swaps over the last few years. We always have soo much fun!

After shopping in the local quilt store and a quick and yummy lunch at the Gristmill we headed over to see the quilts.

You may be wondering what a round robin is? let me fill you in.. .. Each person picks a pattern or finds a center for their own quilt. Each person in the group either makes a portion of the pattern or adds to the center block. They are passed around one at a time to each member.

After everyone has a turn to add to each quilt, they are given back to the owners and finished. Make sense?? It is a fun way to share your talents with others in your group and get a finished quilt top!

Tonight I get to hand off the one I have been adding to- but sorry- I can't show it... I want my little friend that it belongs to to be surprized.... She is gonna love it! I can't wait to get mine back too!

Have a happy Day!

Vintage Lingerie Ad

2010-01-28T12:17:00.010-07:00

Did I spell that title right? Anyway, I am home from school today (I work in a school) because I lost my voice! Yesterday I sounded like- what the kids called- a frog. Today---nothing! I can squeak out a whisper and that is it. How we take our voices for granted! I can't call anyone or answer the phone...they can't hear me... I tried to go thru a drive thru for a drink...they couldn't hear me! Ughhh!
So I decided to clean my house.

I started to flip thru a stack of my grandmas old magazines and found this ad. The Happy Honeymoon Gown. The magazine was from 1970 and of all places to find it ...In the Improvement ERA ( right across from an article by Boyd K. Packer. )

For anyone who is LDS they probably know what that is. Now called the Ensign but without the ads. It made me giggle to see it there. Who would guess?

To read the ad or see it better just click on the picture

Hopefully talking soon,

How do I hand quilt?

2010-01-25T14:16:00.008-07:00

I was asked recently about how I baste my quilts before hand quilting. Here is my prefered method:

I use a regular old quilting bee frame on stands. I put it up and attach my quilt.

After scavanging through my old thread, I find a bright color ( or ugly thread I want to get rid of ) so it is easy to see to remove. Using large stiches (about 1/4") I baste about 4 to 6" apart in a grid fashion over entire quilt. I like this idea better than safety pins because of the lap frame I use.

Once basted, I remove my quilt from the frame and use a lap hoop (mine is square and made of pvc pipe) as I quilt. I like to use a chalk pencil to mark my pattern before I begin quilting. But you may not want to mark the whole quilt at the beginning with chalk because it erases easily. I have also used a water solulable fabric marking pen but found that the marks came back even after washing them off.

And don't you love the pre made stencils available. You can get almost any design you want. My favorite stencil store is the Stencil Company.

I have found that using the right tools makes hand quilting alot more fun!

...

Happy Quilting!

...

Angie

Quiet Weekend

2010-01-25T14:04:00.004-07:00

I spent most of my weekend under the weather, on the couch, catching up on my missed episodes of my favorite shows. Of course, I was not sick enough that I couldn't do a little stitching. I pulled out a quilt that I have been hand quilting. Yup! It is on my UFO list. I can't wait to show it finished. This quilt has felted wool sunflowers, a fuzzy lamb and a wool blackbird.

Have a Happy Day!

Angie

New Project and Pattern

2010-01-16T23:21:00.007-07:00

Just to entice you...Here is a sneak peek at my new pattern and project I finished for patchworkposse. Are you getting excited? It will be revealed in Feb- available to posse members. Everyone else will have to wait until early this summer and it will be available in my etsy store.

Happy Sewing!!

Angie

Yea! No.14 done!!

2010-01-08T22:23:00.004-07:00

I just finished my Mimi Kirchner Tea Cup Pincushion. Isn't it so fun? Yea! I am sooo happy.... Now I can scratch off number 14 on my UFO (Unfinished Object) list!!

Handmade by Me?

2010-01-05T15:11:00.001-07:00

I know it is hard to believe (ok-not really) but I created my first doll. Isn't she cute? I made her especially for my favorite little girl of course. Her eyes lit up when she saw the blue wings.

This dress is so cute if I do say so myself.... but of course I can't take the credit. I found this fairy dress at a local shop and had to buy it to dress my little doll in. I appreciate that there are girls out there that posess talents that I don't have like sewing wonderful clothes.

Learn to Laugh..grrrr

2010-01-03T15:56:00.005-07:00

I found this picture in one of my magazines and wanted to share. It was written by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin. I don't know who the little boy is but doesn't he make you want to giggle...?

The thought in the article was that when you come to times of trial you need to learn to laugh. He says, "The first thing we can do is learn to laugh. Have you ever seen an angry driver who, when someone else makes a mistake, reacts as though that person has insulted his honor, his family, his dog, and his ancestors all the way back to Adam? Or have you had an encounter with an overhanging cupboard door left open at the wrong place and the wrong time which has been cursed, condemned, and avenged by a sore headed victim?

There is an antidote for times such as these: learn to laugh."

"Laughing will extend your life and make the lives of all those around you more enjoyable."

I love it! We handed that article right over to my honey! hee hee..

Flowers and Ric-Rac

2010-01-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

While sitting and watching the new movies we got for Christmas, I decided to stitch up a little pouch for my business cards. With a scrap of ric-rac, a cute wool bird and a snap- It is done! My cards fit perfect and won' get ruined in my purse.

Resolutions and UFO's

2010-01-01T10:30:00.004-07:00

I think I posted a while ago about all my unfinished projects. Ugggghhh! How they haunt me! Sneering at me everytime I start a new project without finishing them! (that may be a little too dramatic...)

So as much as I hate resolutions, I plan to make a UFO list to work on this year. Sort of my bucket list- although I have one of those too- I am posting it on my blog so that every time I start my computer I will be motivated to "sell my guilt "(as my organizing friend Marilyn always says.) And if I truly do not like any of my unfinished quilt tops enough to finish them- I will give them away or get rid of them. Sounds fabulous...Right? I don't expect to finish them all of course- but here goes...

Alright....here is my list (not really in any order)

1- T's chocolate quilt

2- Mom's victorian quilt

3 Pledge of Allegiance quilt

4- Wizard of Oz quilt

5- Grandma's House quilt

6- Joseph Smith quilt (ooh- don't know if I can do this)

7- Mystery Quilt - blue and pink

8- Mystery Quilt - yellow pink and green

9- Grandma's Kitchen quilt

10- Round Robin 2009 quilt

11- Red Log Cabin quilt

12- Duschene Retreat quilt

13- 30's Pinwheel quilt

14- Tea Cup Pincushion

15- Black Bird Quilt (almost done quilting)

Is that enough!? I am sure I have more....but I can't bear it...my head is starting to spin. I think this will be a good start. And guess what. When I finish... I get to show and tell! Yea!

Wish me luck !!

Have a Happy New Year!

Angie

Snowy Day in Utah

2009-12-30T10:29:00.005-07:00

We woke this morning to about 7 inches of snow!

Not that this is strange in Utah since our state logo is 'Ski Utah" and "Greatest Snow On Earth" but its amazing to go to bed with a light snow covering and wake up with it almost deeper than my little dogs are tall. I feel for my puppies who have to potty in snow deeper than they are.

My kids were excited with plans to build a 10 ft. snowman....hmmmm.....I suggest they make sure they have a ladder.

Happy snow day!

Angie

Handmade Quilt Card Tutorial

2009-12-28T15:23:00.008-07:00

...

This is a great idea for using your favorite quilt photos. I made these note cards from photos of quilts that our quilt ladies would bring for show and tell. They made a perfect gift at our December party. And the girls were so surprized when their own quilts were made into note cards.

All you need to do is take your favorite photo (make sure if it is not your photo that you get permission) and copy and paste it into a word program. Set the page as landscape. Place the photos on the bottom half of the sheet so that when you print them to card stock, and they are folded, they turn out right side up. The blank portion will be above the pictures.

I copied 2 per page and marked the center line up and down with a ruler. From there you need to cut the page in half along line. Then all you have to do is fold card carefully just above pictures.and put it with an envelope and there you have it.

Have a happy Day!

Angie

Last Minute Apron

2009-12-23T15:18:00.006-07:00

After a dash to the local Quilt Shop, I finished my last sewing project for Christmas. This apron is a surprise for someone special... but I can't say who because I know they may be looking!

Can you see how different the color looks in different lighting? I think the botom picture is more true to the actual color. The fabric is from Riley Blake Designs called "Just Dreamy in My Mind's Eye" I knew as soon as I saw it that it was meant to be an apron.

Quilt Group Party

2009-12-23T15:02:00.005-07:00

I love Christmas parties. Especially when they are with my quiltie friends. It was a festive night of yummy home made food, chatting and tea towel swapping! Look at all the prizes ready to be handed around.

This is the towel I made for the swap. Isn't the chick cute? It was a pattern I found in my stash.

Julie over at Country Girl at Heart was our president this last year...and what a great job she did! We had a fun year. Thanks Julie!!

Decorating for Christmas

2009-12-19T14:32:00.007-07:00

Our tree is up so it feels like Christmas now. It is packed full of family memories! I wanted to share some of my favorites. I collect ruby slipper ornaments and have quite a few. This pair is one of my favs! Remember these from "You've Got Mail" ..?? Meg Ryan hung a pair just like these in her store window.

One of my favorite traditions at our house is that each year we all get to buy a new ornament for our tree. Each ornament is marked with a date and a name. (Like we need to remember who's the red shoes are? hee- hee)

Some ornaments simply represent things that make us smile, others are themed to things that have happened throughout the year. The year my honey and I went on our first cruise, we brought back this crabby ornament and I filled a glass bulb with sand from the beach in Grand Cayman- one of the islands we stopped on.

Can you believe we have a frig hanging on our tree? Ok- it's mine. It was made by Hallmark last year (I think) and I couldn't resist! Isn't it the cutest thing? The doors open and it has tiny little food..a jam jar, jello mold, milk, turkey...the whole holiday feast! All the little tiny visitors at our house love it!

Happy Holidays!!

Angie

Wool Ornaments by My Elementary Kids

2009-12-17T19:59:00.004-07:00

Once a week I spend a couple of hours volunteering with the afterschool program at our Elementary School. It hit me one day that I needed to give something more to the kids I work with all day...because I love them so much! So what is my favorite thing to do??? Sew, of course.

I thought, why not teach them to sew?? I started little with plastic canvas boxes then slowly worked them up to whip stitching and sewing on beads to make wool ornaments. Look what a fabulous job the 9-11 year olds did. Even the boys got involved.

Then they all got to hang them on the tree. The kids have loved all the projects. After the holidays, it will be on to the next fun idea...

Go Organize!

2009-12-14T08:49:00.001-07:00

My good friend Marilyn Bohn just had her book "Go Organize" published and it's now in bookstores. Yea!! She is a fellow quilter and has been so kind this year to share her organizing tips with our quilt group.

If you need to get organized, this is a great resource. If you'd like to get more info on her book signings or to purchase her book...check out her web page.

Merry Christmas to me! and a Confession

2009-12-09T08:02:00.001-07:00

Confession: This year (ok- every year) I seem to find, as I am shopping, things I can't live without! I am sure I am not the only one. Right??? It is the season of giving and really, who says we can't give to ourselves...!

I found these darling pillowcases on ebay and had to have them. I haven't seen this pattern before- and aren't they cute? All hand embroidered and hand crocheted. I love the handwork!

Christmas is great! Don't you just love Christmas?

Giveaway Day Winner!

2009-12-07T15:03:00.003-07:00

After putting all of the names in a hat (I couldn't decide the best comment because there were so many great ones!) we have a giveaway winner!

Congrats to Mama Lusco! I will be sending her my cute pincushion.

But there is more.... I am also sending a little surprise to three other lucky bloggers!
Yea!!

These surprise winners are Jingle, and Libby, and Sara.

I will be e-mailing out all the winners for a mailing address. Congrads Ladies!! Hope you enjoy your prizes...

Quilt Group Christmas Party!

2009-12-04T20:08:00.008-07:00

We had a great time at our Quilt Group Christmas Party last night! These teatowels were made by our quilt girls to swap with each other. I love to get things that I didn't make myself. They were all so cute I had a hard time deciding which one I wanted....

Now that my run as president is over, I may get some more of my unfinished projects finished. And I can't wait for Becky's online group to start! She has such great ideas (did I mention that she was my right hand gal this year for our quilt group?) I know that she has some great quilting designers lined up to design unique projects just for her online group... I think she is even giving away free memberships on her blog. Make sure you check out her blog for more details.

Have a happy weekend!

Angie

P.s. Don't forget to enter the giveaway below. You can still enter until Dec 6th.

Sew-Mama-Sew giveaway day!!

2009-12-03T21:46:00.004-07:00

To all of you fabulous quilters/stitchers who have posted- i love your tips! Sorry it took me so long to get them posted.... I Can"t wait to pick a lucky winner! Giveaway ends Sunday the 6th 12:oo midnight MT.

December Giveaway!

2009-11-29T19:39:00.008-07:00

Merry Christmas to you! I am having a giveaway as part of the sew-mama-sew giveaway day! My giveaway is for one of my ruby red pincushions. It measures 4" across and has one of my handmade, hand dyed doilies on top and finished with vintage buttons. This would be a great present for yourself or for your favorite quilter.

Just post a comment to this posting and tell me one of your favorite sewing/quilting tips. I am always looking for fun clever ideas. My favorite tip is to "measure twice and cut once!" Not too creative but I have learned from experience. Yikes!

Winner will be based on response so get those creative ideas going. Winner will be announced December 6th. International bloggers are welcome. Make sure you check back to see if you are the winner.

Hope your holidays are Wonderful!

Angie

Dipping Pretzels for the Party!

2009-11-29T18:53:00.007-07:00

Yummy!!

Today my daughter and I worked hard cooking caramel and dipping 5+ trays of pretzels in it , then coating them with creamy milk chocolate... mmmmmm!

I am getting ready for our Quilt Group Christmas Party this week. We are going to have a fabulous dinner and quilt show. I am so excited to see what everyone has done with their mystery pattern we handed out. This month will be my last horrah as president, before passing the torch on for next year. (Which I am excited about because- we have awesome ladies taking over!) We have had alot of fun this year sewing and chatting and sharing ideas.

Sunbonnet Sue for my Birthday

2009-11-24T18:18:00.005-07:00

Look what I got for my birthday!!

It would be a vintage sunbonnet sue quilt. Yea!! When I saw it I fell in love and my honey got it for me...Wahoo!

Happy Birthday to me!

Embroidered Bird Dishtowels

2009-11-24T14:30:00.006-07:00

I made a set of these dishtowels for a swap a little while ago. I love birds so I couldn't resist stitching up a pair for myself.

And the pattern, you ask? I traced them from old coloring book pages and then stitched away. Cute idea, huh?

Am I crazy? I would rather go to a funeral.

2009-11-15T18:58:00.004-07:00

ok-so there is no one like your children to blatenly point out your weirdness or flaws to you! In a random conversation over dinner we started talking about my husbands adopted sister who makes wedding cakes. I am pretty sure this sister is still a little miffed at me because I missed her wedding reception 7 years ago. I love her to death but don't like receptions. So- my comment in the conversation was that I would rather go to a funeral than to a reception.
Wow, did I open myself up to the crazy mom bashing. I am pretty sure that I will hear that one forever.

A winner!

2009-11-15T18:34:00.003-07:00

Congrads to minipinky! I will be sending out a copy of my original Chocolate Bliss Quilt Pattern to you. Make sure you send me your address and it is on it's way. Have a happy day!!

Angie

Quilting Melodies November Giveaway

2009-11-07T18:42:00.010-07:00

Have you visited my etsy store lately?? I handmake pincushions, patterns and kits. This month I am giving one lucky blogger a chance to win something fabulous from my store!! The winner gets their choice of any one item I currently have listed. Sound fun??

Here is what you need to do.....Leave me a comment on this post and tell me what item you like the best and why you like it. For five extra chances to win, mention me in a post on your own blog with a link to this post or add me on your sidebar. Make sure you leave your blog address for me. (Yea! This gives me a chance to see your blogs too) I'll accept entries until 12:00 midnight (Mountain time) on Friday November 13th. International bloggers are welcome too!

Good Luck..
Have a happy Day!!

Angie

Did I Mention I Won??

2009-11-07T14:33:00.003-07:00

A couple of weeks ago i visited one of my favorite blogs Gail Pan Designs. Her posting was for a drawing for her new patterns. I couldn't resist entering. A few days later I found out I won. (I don't usually win things unless it is another orange peeler at a Tupperware party that I already have 10 of!)

I was sooo excited to get her pattern 'A Christmas Welcome' in the mail today from Australia. I love hand stitching so how perfect! Thanks Gail. I love it!

Thrift Store Fabric Finds!!

2009-11-07T14:25:00.003-07:00

Now, I know there are some people out there that are allergic to the words thrift store. I personally love them. Really, aren't they just like a big fabulous garage sale with all the comforts of air conditioning and heat? Who could resist that? so- off I went this week to our local DI and what did I find? At first glance I saw 2 bags of misc. fabric (only $3 ea.) with a few batiks mixed in.

I grabbed them up happy to have a few pieces of batik....but when I got home I got the best surprize!! There were 2 full Moda christmas panels and at least a dozen other great fabrics all mixed in. Yea!! At least $40 of good fabric for $6! I can't wait to get started creating with my new found treasures!

Grandma's Sunbonnet Sue Quilt

2009-11-01T19:41:00.003-07:00

Look what I got a picture of...My grandma C's sunbonnet quilt. It was handed down to my Aunt because it was made from her dresses and clothes she had as a little girl. So cute!! It was made aroung the 50's and is still in perfect condition.

My Scary Halloween House

2009-10-29T14:32:00.013-06:00

With only one pumkin on the porch carved by my Kissie, our house hardly looks like Halloween is only 2 days away. So I searched high and low for the scariest thing in my house. It turned out to be my quiltroom! AHHHHH!!

You probably thought you would get a good ghost story or something, but not today! Everytime I look in I want to scream!

Anyone ever felt that way?? Could there be anyone out there who has a worse quiltroom? (And you all thought I was perfectly organized from my cute little pictures on my blog) I guess I have just got to bump my quiltroom to the top of my 'to do' list. AHHHHH!!

What is the scariest thing in your house?? A room? your dog? the kids? (hee hee) or could it be the eerie scratching on your window from the overgrown tree limbs outside? wooooh! I would love for you to leave a comment with your story to share and scare!

Happy Halloween!!

Time out for a Quilt Retreat

2009-10-24T20:52:00.005-06:00

What a fun weekend! Just got back from a fabulous quilt retreat in Eastern Utah.

One of my gal pals invited us to her cabin to sew, eat and laugh histerically! I got a couple of long overdue projects done like my new camera case and a mystery quilt top. yea!!

But sorry hubbies and kids, this was for moms only! I am thinking every girl needs a get-away once in a while!

Wonderful video!

2009-10-06T14:51:00.006-06:00

I found a fabulous video of Polina Seminova dancing on youtube and wanted to share. You will have to scan to the bottom of my blog and there you will see it. She is so graceful and such a fantastic dancer!!

It's Fall

2009-09-28T20:15:00.006-06:00

It is fruit season...so what have I been doing?? I have been picking fruit, washing fruit, peeling fruit, squishing fruit and canning fruit. I actually got a few cucumbers from my garden this year to make a fresh batch of sweet pickles- colored dark green of course!

My tiny garden didn't produce much this year but I got a bunch of fruit from my daughters plum tree and apple tree and from my brothers grape vines. This weekend it will be bottles of apples, grape juice and plum jelly.

Chocolate Basket

2009-09-20T21:46:00.003-06:00

Here is the yummy basket our guild is donating to be auctioned by the Utah Quilt Guild. It is crammed full of fabric, chocolate, a cupcake pin cushion, kiss dishtowels and candy pillowcases, a fabric sundae, patterns, and did I say chocolate?? Plus lots of other surprizes. The girls from our Feed Dogs group are fabulous!!!!!

Just her size!

2009-09-20T21:18:00.004-06:00

I finished my favorite little girl a chocolate quilt. It ended up measuring 45 x 60. It is a fabulous size to put over her while she naps. We call it her ice cream blankie. By the smile on her cute little face you can see she loves it!!

I need a vacation!

2009-09-12T11:56:00.011-06:00

My honey came home a couple of weekends ago and said "I need a vacation." I think I looked at him strange because he is already on the road all the time. But off we went to Moab.
Our friends invited us to stay at their house so we jumped at the offer. Preston Paxman- one of our dearest friends owns a fabulous business on the Colorado River. It is called Canyonlands By Night.

They have day trips that take you down the river to see all the beautiful rock formations. Then they have the tour they are famous for. (Sorry this sounds like a commercial but it really is awesome) Before dusk you head to the dining room for a yummy homemade dinner of pulled pork, pasta salad, dutch oven potatoes and homemade rolls. Then at dusk you get on the boat and it takes you upriver a few miles and stops.

When it is dark enough the boat floats back down river as an audio presentation is played with majestic music and lights are shown along the canyon walls. It is so beautiful. You can see every star in the sky. So the mini-vacation was a hit. I came home destressed and relaxed. Thanks honey for the idea!!

While there we drove about 45 min south of Moab up the canyon, above the quakies for a ride on the four wheelers. Always exciting!

The view from the top was incredible and we saw tons of wildlife.

Here is the horney toad the kids caught- which they were forced to leave behind ( I wonder why-eew!)

Photo Redwork

2009-09-04T15:14:00.013-06:00

Did you see the post over on Becky's blog about photo needlework??
I thought I would share mine. --Of course, it is only my top because, you know I have trouble finishing quilts. :b
This is my Challenge Quilt from our quilt group last year. (We were given fabric scraps and had to creatively incorporate them in a quilt.) My photo is the house my grandfather grew up in- as it looked in the early 1900's.

I enlarged my photo on my computer and traced it on to my fabric, with my fabric and pattern taped on my patio door window. ( Windows work well if you don't have a light box! )
Then I stitched it up in red floss to match my blocks...

More vintage cards

2009-09-02T16:08:00.001-06:00

Here are a couple more of those cute vintage cards.

Darling Vintage Cards!

2009-08-31T15:05:00.005-06:00

Don't you just love vintage cards? I was so excited when-as I was cleaning out my closet- I ran across a box of my Grandma C's old unused cards. They are so cute that I wanted to share!!

If you love the vintage photos like I do then you might like this web page... http://www.interesting.com/postcards They have a handful of cards you can send for free. Yea for free!!

Another blog???

2009-08-26T21:48:00.005-06:00

I have a new blog!......
My new blog is a bit different... it is a family blog/genealogy blog..... whatever you want to call it. For all of you wonderful people who I am lucky enough to share some family blood with, this is for you. I started to post a few of the picts I have taken when I have visited the cemeteries along with pictures of the ancestors. I am fortunate. Not everyone can just hop in the car and be there in an hour or so.
Anyway, who knows what else I will add! Maybe a history here or there. I love gathering the stories and histories myself and want to share with anyone else who is interested. If you have anything to add, I would love to post it. Just let me know...k? Tootles!!

Lanyard / Scissor Keeper Tutorial

2009-08-04T14:35:00.022-06:00

For our Quilt Group meeting this month, I am demonstrating how to make a lanyard/scissor keepers. They require a piece of 1 and 1/2" ribbon a yard in length, a covered girls hair elastic and a cute button.

First match up the two raw ends and fold them over together 1/4" and sew. Make sure you lay it around your neck, so that you get the ends the right way. You want it to lay nice and flat against you. I used white thread for demonstration purposes. You may want to coordinate the color to your ribbon.

Tie a knot in the elastic close to the metal fastener or if it doesn't have one, just close to the end leaving it so you have a small loop and a large one.

Then fold over one corner so it hangs over the side 1/2" with the raw edge up.

Holding ribbon so that you can see the folded ribbon, place the elastic knot in the center of the folded part of the ribbon and tack down the small loop. It is best to whip stitch in one place over and over intil it is fastened on good. Later the button you attach will cover the stitches on the other side.

Now fold ribbon back accross the sewn on elastic so that you have a piont at the end and the elastic is showing out where the point is. Your raw edge of your ribbon should now be down.

Whip stitch open edge of piont sewing tightly right up to elastic.

Sew one or two seams across ribbon to tack down loose edge.

Turn over and you will see where your stitches are from sewing on the elastic. This is where you will sew on your cute button.

To hook on your scissors, put elastic thru finger hole on scissors and thread ribbon through the loop.

And there you have it!! Too cute and easy. Have fun making your own!!

racing grandmas!!

2009-07-26T15:42:00.003-06:00

k- Have you ever seen this game?? It is hilarious! There are two little grannies in wheelchairs that race around the track and try not to kill each other.... I think these guys are a little too competitive. Go Grannie!!

Dessert anyone...?

2009-07-14T23:06:00.006-06:00

The quilt group picnic was alot of fun! By each place setting was one of these ice cream dishes with a fat quarter treat, topped by fluffy topping and a cherry! Anyone would agree that to a quilter, this is as good as the real thing!!

The stitchery items that everyone brought were so cute. I got a fabulous bag that I think I even squealed over. Everyone got a candybar with a golden ticket because our theme has been , of course, CHOCOLATE!

All of the chocolate quilts were hung to show and they were awesome! Everyone added thier own touches and they were all wonderful. Thanks to all of you ladies who made the quilt and participated. And if you would like to get the chocolate quilt pattern, you can still get it in my Etsy store.

so- On to the next project...I can't wait to see what everyone does with the new pattern, The Cranky Quilt... It is fun and cranky. If you go to Beckys page you can see hers and a free tutorial, too.

Gettin Ready for the Summer Quilt Picnic...

2009-07-03T20:06:00.016-06:00

This year for the summer Quilt Group picnic we are doing an embroidery project swap. ok- I love the hand work so..yes...it was my idea! I made a vintage style apron...and a couple of bags... I love them, so my little not wanting to share side secretly hopes no one else picks them so I can keep them...

I also made some new pincushions for my store. They are really fun to make!! I think I will be doing aprons too (in the near future). They are so CUTE!!