How about a fast table runner for Christmas? One long rectangle of your favorite print, with Snow Buddies appliqued on both ends? I quilted organic lines on the applique area and lots of rectangles elsewhere. I used Aurifil 50wt thread for the blanket stitching of the appliqued shapes and for the quilting. The backing was pieced and it all come together very quickly. The facial features were drawn with fabric marker giving the snowmen a happy, chubby look. I like to hand stitch the binding so … [Read more...] about Christmas in August
Wool Applique quilt
Oh... the mornings are starting to get chilly again, reminding me that Autumn is not too far away. Is it time to work with wool again? In my studio, it is always time for wool applique! This is my latest wall hanging called Gardener's Delight. Here are some specs for you: Applique: wool (hand dyed, recycled wool clothes) Dimensions: 17" x 19.5" Machine quilted with dark monofilament Embroidered with DMC floss Batting: Warm and Natural I love the recycled wool I used for the basket, don't … [Read more...] about Wool Applique quilt
Quiltmaking Essentials
I am telling you, mitered corners still elude me. When working with them I still need to refer to directions, even after all these years of quilting. It is probably because I don't use them in all my quilts, but some borders won't look good without them. I wish I had someone next to me right as I am doing it... ... but the next best thing is a good reference book. Quiltmaking Essentials 2 by Donna Lynn Thomas covers not only borders but also backings, bindings, sashings, and quilt … [Read more...] about Quiltmaking Essentials
Another Little Gem
Yesterday I finished another quilt from the Little Gems book by Connie Kauffman, this one for my son Ryan who turned 14 at the beginning of June. I was busy trying to meet a couple of deadlines so he had to wait a few weeks for his gift. I think it was worth the wait! Although it measures only 12" x 12", carefully chosen colors and fabrics make it really striking. It will eventually hang in his bedroom but for now he wants it downstairs where he can see it all the time. This is Connie's … [Read more...] about Another Little Gem
Bed cover makeovers
Have you seen this book? It gave me the idea of having a couple different, plain bed coverlets which can be spruced up with bed runners and matching pillows/pillowcases. What do you think? It would be a wonderful way to keep bedroom decor fresh without spending a ton of money and time! Quick Change, compiled by Karen Burns at Martingale, showcases beautiful designs by a host of accomplished quilters, including Kimberly Jolly from Fat Quarter Shop. The 13 patterns offer many … [Read more...] about Bed cover makeovers
All Grown Up Irish Chain Quilt
I can finally show you the quilt I had been working on for Moda Bake Shop! I had a lot of fun designing, piecing, and quilting it. All Grown Up, going from small 4-patches, to medium and then larger 4-patches... the growing patches symbolize the coming of age of little girls (or boys, just change the colors). Moda fabrics are so easy to work with! Very little fraying, soft hand, and Bella Solids have such amazing colors! This pattern would look great in a number of color trios. The free … [Read more...] about All Grown Up Irish Chain Quilt