Pumpkin Patch Quilter

WIP and a Mini-Tutorial

2012-02-20T04:40:00.000-08:00

Well this is what I have been working on the past few days...

I don't even know how it became this project! I originally intended to make a larger version of the cabin table topper I put on Etsy and somehow this is what I got! I started out making 8" log cabin blocks...but there wasn't enough contrast. I had 16 log cabin blocks total and when I put them together you really couldn't see the log cabin pattern. So I thought, what could I do with these blocks? I'm not going to rip them and start again. So I thought, well what the heck, lets see what happens when I cut them in half.

This is what I got! NOW I can really see the light side and the dark side. So I started playing with the halves...

...and got something that looked like this. These are the dark halves of four of the cabins. I then took the light halves and placed them around these four...

...and this is the block I ended up with! It's sort of like a split nine patch or a disappearing nine patch...but with a log cabin block. I KNOW I have seen this somewhere but can't for the life of me find a block name online, so if someone out there reading knows what this is called please let me know! :)

I started this the day before yesterday so I would say it's pretty easy and quick to put together and you could have a lot of fun playing around with varying shades of fabric. Fun! :)

I have never done any bias vines before and I thought it would be fun to play with this quilt since it is mainly just scraps. I got my first vine attatched this morning...it's a little wonkey but now that I've got a little practice I think the next one will be easier. I used my washable marking pen to mark the vine. You can see towards the end I got a little tight with that wave. Oh well. :) I'm excited to add some leaves and flowers next...

I am not going to go through and give a thorough tutorial on how to make a log cabin because I just don't have time, but you can googles tons of free block patterns and I'm sure find one to suit your needs. I will however give you the strip measurments I used for cutting to save you a little time...this is what I used to make 8" square log cabins...I made sixteen log cabin blocks and used them all to make the four blocks above in the wallhanging.

I first went through my bins and pulled light and dark scraps, pressed them, and cut them into two inch strips. Then I cut...

From Light Cut:
16   2"x2"
16   3.5"x2"
16   5"x2"
16   6.5"x2"

From Dark Cut:
16   2"x2"
16   3.5"x2"
16   5"x2"
16   6.5"x2"
16   8"x8"

Hope that helps anyone wanting to make these! If you have any questions just comment and I will try my best to help. Make sure if you are a no-reply blogger that you leave me a way to contact you! :)

Quilt Show Pictures

2012-02-19T05:06:00.000-08:00

On a whim I decided to go to a local quilt show yesterday and invited my Mom to join me. We have gone ot this show in particular almost every year for about five (six?) years now but usually we go the last weekend in March when all the vendors are there for shopping. This year I thought it'd just be nice to beat the crowds and enjoy the quilts without elbows to fight through. Besides, it's not as if I need more fabric! Lol*

Here are a few pictures I thought I'd share...some of my favorites! Please forgive me because I didn't catch most of the names, but you can go to the Quilts 2012 at Lake Farm Park to see the names of the winners (most of the quilts I'm showing here were ribbon winners). This show just opened up last weekend so go see the quilts if you're in the area! ;)

This one won several awards, and Best in Show from the judgest to boot...boy was it deserved...isn't it stunning? Here's Mom and Emma standing by the quilt, the first large quilt you see as you walk into the Farm Park.

A closeup of my lil' Emma enjoying the quilt show... ;)

Here is a small one hanging rightnext to it...also gorgeous!!!

I just love traditional quilts and this one is SO MY TASTE! A scrappy New York Beauty...it's so pretty...

A closeup of the gorgeous stitching...

This one I had to snap a picture of because it was made by a friend's sister. She is a well known and very talented quilter/teacher in the area who also runs a long arm business. What a beautiful quilt, and what a treat to be able to "cheer" a participant on.

A close up of the stitching...

This quilt is another local woman who is a member of a quilt guild I used to attend. I have been wanting to go back for some time but you know how things just come up. Anyhow she won a first place ribbon and I wish I had gotten a close up...this is hand applique...COMPLETELY hand quilted!!! What a phenominal quilt. This one took a bit of time to make! ;) Teensy little dimples of quilting completely cover this quilt...not an inch of this quilt is untouched or unquilted. It's so beautiful...I am jealous, I will likely NEVER accomplish something like this because I just am not that crazy about hand quilting! :) I will just have to enjoy her beautiful work...

I didn't catch the name of this one, but isn't it GORGEOUS! I just love the colors and the pattern...

Closeup of the stitching...I want to sew like this one day!

This was my FAVORITE quilt from the entire show...ohmygosh...ohmygosh so pretty!!! Pictures just don't do it justice...

LOOK AT THOSE FEATHERS!!!

AHHH and the roses!!! It looks like she took a fabric marker or something for shading around the petals of the roses but I can't tell. It's so beautiful though, I could have looked at the details of this little quilt all day...

This one was just a really fun quilt...it's not something I would have thought of on my own but boy is this color scheme effective! I'm a sucker for scrappy quilts, and apparently brights too! :)

Here's a closeup, this is where it really gets interesting...

Well that is enough pictures for one post. Next post I will add a few more. Mom's and my tradition after the quilt show is to stop at Jo-Ann's and go fabric shopping afterwards...well since this was a spur of the moment trip this year I didn't save up a lot of spending money, however, I did pick up these two doodads. I have a water erasable marking pen but I like this one and wanted to try it out for a few wholecloth ideas I have. Small projects, because that is what I like and what is manageable for my life right now. I also got this little bendy ruler. I still have yet to try those free form geese from the book by Gail Garber I purchased last year. I read in her book she likes to use a ruler something like this one...so now I feel all inspired and motivated! :)

See how these things work? You buy it, let it warm up for a year or two, or maybe five, THEN you sew it! ;)

The Pumpkin Quilt From My Header and Some Chatter

2012-02-18T04:57:00.000-08:00

Last fall I received several emails regarding the pumpkin quilt in my header. I truly apologize, because there were many inquiries and I forgot who all it was who'd asked! I did promise if I found the magazine the pattern came from I would post about it...so here it is!

The pattern is by Debbie Kratovil, it is called "The Pumpkin Patch", and it comes from the December 2005 issue of Patchwork Quilting put out by Woman's Own. Wheew! Like a good quilter I adapted it some to my own taste...

Here's a shot of the cover of the magazine...if you are able to get your hands on this issue or have it somewhere hiding in your stash pull it out! There are a lot of great patterns and inspiration in this one...

In other news, here is the current ~~mess~~ project happening in my sewing room... ;)

I loved that pretty scrappy log cabin so much that I put on Etsy that I thought I'd make a second. This one is going to be a little bigger and possibly include some applique. Most of my quilts are experiments. Lol* :) I'm hoping that it will come out nice and replace a wallhanging that I have in one of the living rooms.

My goal this year is to whittle down my scraps a bit. Is this normal??? To have this many scraps!!!?? Lol* I have three huge bins exploding with scraps despite my having created several little projects using only these scraps...ugh!

Here is scrap bin one...

Two...

...and three looking a little less full...

For a while I employed Bonnie Hunter's method of scrap organization, but it is a job to sort all those pieces and I'd much rather spend my free time at this point being inspired and sewing! Maybe when the kids are older and I don't have to fight for sewing time. I must say, having all those nicely cut and sorted precuts around can be VERY inspiring! ;)

These are the scraps I've cut for my current project. I don't think it will be very large, and boy this picture doesn't do it justice. My sewing table looks so pretty right now! :)

Scrappy Log Cabin Topper and Redwork In Progress

2012-02-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

I adore this little topper. I think I might even like it more than that sawtooth star topper from last post. These ones are going to be REALLY hard to part with, but I'm itching to buy some new fabric so...off to Etsy. :) These are mainly scraps...

Here's a slightly closer view so you can see some of the quilting. I love this paisley design because it goes with just about everything...though I think the next log cabin I do I'm going to do feathers. I just love the way feathers wind around in a cabin block.

Oh and here's a little sneak of what I'm working on today. Just finishing up the binding this afternoon. This too is going on Etsy. I made the center redwork block some time ago but it ended up being an abandoned project. Sometimes the COOLEST things come from UFO's that were left for scraps. :) You know how I love those feathers too... ;)

Shabby Chic Scrappy Table Topper

2012-02-15T08:39:00.000-08:00

Oh quilting friends. It's been a rough few weeks here for me. Sometimes when something sad or difficult happens, something wonderful comes from it. I am really turning to my quilting now because it brings me so much joy. My quilts have gotten me through some pretty rotten times, and this will be no exeption. My batteries died so I was only able to take one picture of this...and I am so excited to share it. I made a scrappy little table topper to put on Etsy. Didn't it turn out sweet? So many ideas are spinning in my head for things I want to make and do. For now I'm going to focus on getting a few more things in my shop and finishing up some projects that have been in limbo for a long time.

Valentine Table Topper

2012-02-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

The baby is growing and I'm finding myself with less and less time for my hobbies. I'm trying to get stocked back up on Etsy, because frankly, it's nice to have a little extra spending money! I need the creative outlet as well.

Here's my newest addition to the shop, a cute little Valentine runner. Nice thing about this is that there aren't any hearts or Valentine specific fabrics or designs in it...so it's something you could put out again during Christmas or just for a cute little springy topper. I like it. As always I'm half tempted to keep it. ;)

Pink Zebra and Polkadot Print Brush Roll

2012-01-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

This was fun to make! I used clear vinyl for the pocket so you could really see what brushes are inside. I'm on a zebra kick right now. Expect more zebra from me soon...lol*

http://www.pumpkinpatchquilter.etsy.com/

Brush Roll and Some Chatter

2012-01-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

Eeekers, it's still looking like Christmas around here! I guess I oughtta do something about that. I did a LOT of custom orders around Christmas time and presents for family in addition to my Etsy items, so I got a little burned out there for a while. I suppose it wouldn't surprise you to know that I still have some Christmas lights up! They are inside though, and in my defense I DO have three small children. :) Just saying. Lol*

Today I'm working on some fun new items and some valentines projects. Some for me and some to sell. :)

Harley Quilt and Etsy Sale

2011-12-27T06:10:00.000-08:00

Hello! Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I have been seriously neglecting my Etsy shop and blogs the last few weeks. It has just been SO busy!!! As I'm sure it is with all of you. Gifts are almost all put away, so now I feel like I can focus on back on my sewing and craftyness a bit.

Here are some pictures of a Harley T-Shirt quilt I made for a woman my Husband works with. Her boyfriend's father passed away, he was really into motorcycles and Harley's, so she had me make this. Wanted to wait until after Christmas just in case he or she somehow found their way here!

Have a bit more straightening up to do around this house and hoping to get some more items on my Etsy shop this week. If you haven't, check out my Etsy Sale!!! ;) http://www.pumpkinpatchquilter.etsy.com/

Kraynaks, A Holiday Tradition ;)

2011-11-20T05:53:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite traditions that has developed with my little family over the years is making the trip each year to Hermitage, PA to visit Kraynaks, a locally famous garden center that puts on an amazing Christmas tree display. We do it for the kids...but truly, we do it for us too! :) I thought I'd share a few pictures of our trip yesterday. It was so fun! :) Above is one of my favorite trees in the display...plaids and gingham - sooooo me! Their displays are truly jam packed and amazing...

Of course along with Kraynaks, part of the fun is stopping at Daffin's Candies in Sharon...

...that chocolate turtle is still pretty cool!

More of Kraynaks displays...aren't they wonderful? This one is so sweet and reminds me of my girls...

...looking out the window, spying in the sky to see if Santa near...

...there tons trees and lots of decorating inspiration...

...this one is so beautiful! Some day I want a tree that hangs from the ceiling... :)

...pink trees, white trees, blue trees, green trees!

...penguin trees!...

This area, Northeastern Ohio and Northwestern Pennsylvania are also well known for all the Amish that live here. Even those of us who've grown up with Amish in our backyards find this an interesting image!

...all the little children ooh and aww at the horse and buggy in Super K's parking lot! LOL* Tied right up to the back of a cart return! LOL*

Ack! The Holidays are HERE!

2011-11-16T09:59:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness this holiday season is going by TOO fast for me! Thanksgiving is already next week, I can hardly believe it. Wheew! Still getting up the Christmas decorations, trying to organize the house and clean to make all the cooking we'll be doing next week easier, and trying to keep sewing too. I haven't done a lot the last few days other than clean and organize, but I did list a few more totes on Etsy. This time some itty bitties. :)

Congrat's Dad and a Little Sewing :)

2011-11-09T05:02:00.000-08:00

Congrat's to my Dad for selling one of his memory boxes on Etsy within an hour of posting it. ;) I told ya he's good.

I know I've been quiet - ish, but it's only because I've been sewing. Hubby's work is having a craft show the first weekend in December so I'm also preparing for that. I don't do a lot of shows as I have little children and no whwere to put them when I'm gone! :) So I'm a little nervous but we shall see.

Working on a scrap quilt for our King Size bed...nothing terribly fancy but I wanted to whittle down my four massive scrap bins a bit. Will show more pictures soon...

My Dad's Etsy...

2011-11-06T18:48:00.000-08:00

My Dad is an incredible decorative artist...and he's making over his Etsy Shop...here's a little sneak peak of what's to come...

New Etsy Items

2011-11-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Added a few things to Etsy today...eek, Christmas is coming...FAST! :)

Machine Stitched Bindings

2011-11-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't really done an "instructional" type of post in a while. Well, I don't know how instructional this is, but what's going to happen here is I'm going to yap a bit about bindings. Lol* I don't by any means know it all, but these are some of my thoughts on the subject of machine stitched bindings.

How did you learn to bind your quilts? My first ever "how to" quilting book was called The Art of Classic Quiltmaking by Harriet Hargrave and Sharon Craig. At the time I didn't know it, but VERY good ladies to learn from. :) Anyhow, from their book I learned to machine stitch down my binding to the front, and hand stitch my binding down to the back. I really love the way this technique looks. It holds up great in the wash, and I'll tell you what, I actually really enjoy the process of completing a quilt and then laying it accross my legs to hand stitch down the binding. But sometimes you just don't have time for that. Or maybe you're making a baby quilt that will get a lot of use and you don't want to put that kind of time into your project. For those times, maching stitching your binding down comes in awfully handy. It's also a fun way to make use of some of those decorative stitches...

Here is an example I'm working on now. I've been making a few little totes to sell for some extra Christmas money. I decided to use the blanket stitch on my machine to close my binding. I find it a lot easier to use a wide binding for this, so I cut my binding strips at 3", and then folded it in half. Once attached to the purse, Instead of folding in half again I folded it all the way down so I have a quarter inch binding on the front, but the stitched won't be right next to the binding, but rather, in a about an inch or so, making it look more as if it were just a decorative stitch added to the purse for fun. Here's the front...

Here's the inside...

For the blanket stitch you want to use an open toe, or a zig zag foot. When you begin you want to make sure your needle is in the middle. This is where your straight line stitching is going to go. I line this up right next to, or maying a thread or two into the binding. Now I don't know how you other ladies do this, but I do backstitch. I backstitch only the straight stitches though, because the little "chomp" stitch looks like a zig zag and not a blanket stitch when I backstitch. So to keep it neat and uniform I try to avoid that.

Here you can see the needle hopping over to take a "bite" of fabric.

I find it really helpful to use these little binding clips when I'm doing this. I don't use them to hand stitch down my binding, but when doing something like this they are really helpful.

If you have an extension table, it might help to take that off too for a tote. If you're binding a quilt you may want to leave it on.

Oh and here's another little hint...I'll tell you what, to some it may seem silly but I never knew this. You know that pressure dial for your foot? USE IT! :) Mine is set at 2 for the majority of my sewing, but when doing purses and totes I find I have a lot of thick bulky seams. When I scoot up to a seam like this...

...I drop my pressure down to zero. Now I'm using a size 14 needle and I slow down, but it goes through nice and smooth without the pressure.

Then I just turn the dial back up once I get through the seam.

Ok so a different post for once. :) Not really a tutorial but maybe helpful to somebody out there!

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

(A day late...I'm actually putting up the Christmas tree today!!!)

I Definitely Have a Problem

2011-10-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

LOL* I can't believe I bought another old sewing machine. Another $5 Goodwill special. I think this must be a pretty common machine because I see them all over the place. The only thing wrong with it, is it was missing the power cord. It has a knee bar and a foot pedal, but the knee bar isn't connected and the foot pedal has a crack in it. I brought it home and hooked it up to the foot pedal of another machine and voila - it sews! LOL* There is some cracked rubber over the wiring which I am debating tackling myself. But who knows, it may be too much a job for me, I am not yet sure. I'd like to think I can do just about anything myself so long as I am motivated enough. Lol* Anyhow the whole purpose of purchasing this machine was to experiment. It only cost me a few bucks and I want a machine I can pull apart and fiddle with and not feel guilty about it. I'd love to refurbish this myself, and see if I truly can do it without paying someone else. This will probably be an ongoing project, so I'll keep you posted. Lol* :)

Custom Diaper Tote

2011-10-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to add things to Etsy lately because I've been busy with custom orders...this is a good thing though! :) I made this custom baby diaper tote for a neighbor...I think it turned out so cute!

**Oh, and I am thrilled to mention that the teacher friend who ordered the two zippered totes was so happy with them, she ended up keeping them both! LOL* She had purchased two, one for herself, and one to give as a birthday gift...what a compliment!!! :)

Wheeew, Totes and More Totes

2011-10-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

Well now that my sewing machine is back home, I sure have been keeping it busy. I made a couple custom order totes for a teacher at my daughter's pre-school. I hope she likes them! Hopefully I didn't send my machine back to the sewing machine doctor either...I don't like the sound it was making after sewing through all these layers of fabric and batting to attach the straps...I was bad though...I did break a needle hitting the zipper on one of these. Zippers are NOT my favorite thing! People don't always understand that there is a difference between a seamstress and a quilter. I'm good with quilts. I'm comfortable with quilts....but my MOM is the seamstress! Lol* :) So zippers are a bit of a daunting task for me, but I'm learning it's probably worth it to get more familiar with them. Let's just home my sewing machine lives to learn with me! :)

Here's a few pictures of the totes...and their zippers! LOL* Not as pretty as some of you pro's out there with the zippers, but they are functional and pretty much hidden so I don't think I'll get any complaints. :)

My Sewing Machine is Back!!!

2011-10-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness too. This stay at home Momma goes a little batty if there's no sewing going on. :) The best part - NO MORE SKIPPED STITCHES!!! The true test happens in a few hours here, after dinner I'm going to put in some monofilament and see what happens. My order arrived today from Patsy Thompson Designs for a spool of Superior's Polyester Monofilament. I'm thinking it must be good stuff since they are sold out on the website. LOL* Right?! I haven't tried it yet but I can feel a big difference. It's not stretchy and it feels heavier, or thicker. I don't know how it will work out for quilting but we shall see. If it doesn't skip or loop on me then I'll be a happy girl!

So of course I've been busy now that my machine is home...

I made this bag today for Etsy. I am proud because I finally figured out and made use of my ruffler attachment for my featherweight! Here's a couple shots of the attachment in action...

WOW am I sorry I didn't learn to use this little devil sooner. Ruffles go SOOOO much faster with it!

Also attempted a 10 minute block...the picture is horrible but you get the idea. It makes a cool block that's kind of like a cathedral window...but minus the window. I really like it! I have had a few people ask me to make cathedral window projects, and they get costly with all the time, handwork, and materials, but boy this would be wonderful to get a similar effect for a more affordable price. Well...that is if I can part with it after I make it. LOL* I've decided I'm pretty awful at selling my work because I want to keep it all...and I do keep some! LOL* Oh well, it's not as if I'm ever going to NOT sew. I can always make more!

Sewing Machine Down. :(

2011-10-19T05:35:00.000-07:00

All these sewing machines, and don't ya know it, the one that I use for all of my quilting is down and out!!! I took it in yesterday after I bought my THIRD pack of needles to try and remedy the skipped stitch problem I've been having for some time. I had thought it was the polyester, and the monofilament, but when I switched back to my normal recipe of size 14 quilting sharps with 50 wt. cotton thread, I still had skipped stitches and this time worse than ever. Here's a picture of what was happening...

I have quilted several big projects on that machine with no issues, but now all of a sudden this is what my stiching looks like. They suspect it could be the timing going because my thread has all of a sudden begun to break with brand new fresh needles in place. Argh. How frustrating. I don't even know what to do with myself without my sewing machine. I can piece my heart out, but it's the quilting that I need to get done! He says hopefully a week...oh I hope it's sooner!

My Old Sewing Machines

2011-10-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

Alrighty well ever since I brought the 301a home I'm on an old sewing machine kick! A friend who recognized my obsession sent another oldie to my house even! LOL* I'm a lucky girl. I just thought I'd post a few pictures of what I have in my little collection right now. I didn't really set out to collect these things, I originally only wanted a treadle to sew on, and a featherweight. The others just sort of fell into my posession...and now, I'm HOOKED! :) So here it is...

Singer Model 15 - this one I just discovered the model of thanks to some help from the "Vintage Sewing Machine Shop" on the Quilting Board. I always thought it was really neat, and I guess it's special and I didn't know it because it has an "oscillating bobbin" instead of a vibrating shuttle. Lookee...

...there...see the bobbin? I guess this was one of the first machines to use these bobbins and these in particular don't often come with the Sphinx decals...or so I'm told. Ok I'll be honest I still don't know enough about these machines to really know how significant that is, but now I'm hooked and have to learn as much about it as I can!

If you've been here lately you've seen my "new to me" Singer 301a. I am PSYCHED to try free motioning on this. :)

Singer Model 15-91, or at least that's what I think it is. :) I have been told that this is a good one for free motioning on too...

...and of course I have a featherweight!!!

Sears and Roebuck model "Howard".

I adore the pretty ornate cabinet...

A little toy machine the Hubby gave me for my birthday....

...and you've seen this cutie my parents recently gave me...

...and here it is!!! My monster machine came home today!!!!! It's a Kenmore model 58...ugly as heck but really neat! It has a knee bar which I am fascinated with. Lol*

...a little yucky, needs some cleaning...

...and it came with one of my favorite surprises...attachments that haven't been touched in a VERY VERY long time!!!

Vintage Attachments

2011-10-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

My new sewing machine has inspired me to dig out all the old boxes of machine attachments I have had around the house for years...

...but first, a few tidbits I have learned about my new Singer 301a...they are a slant needle machine and they take a slant shank attachment. I don't have a single one either except for the foot that came with it! An excuse to shop... I dated my machine and it was made in 1956 in Anderson, South Carolina. How awesome is that!? It was one of the last 301a's made. I also learned it is a short bed version - the 301a's apparently only come in shortbed version. The 301's are the same machine, but made at a different plant, and they come in short or long bed form. Also - a neat sidenote, the bobbin casing for the 301a fits featherweights. They alone sell for $30-$35. I thought that was pretty neat. :)

So attachments...

Here are a few pictures of some of the goodies I have been collecting over the years. I know I have more...as a matter of fact after I took these pictures I found another box in a cabinet.

Most of the ones that are in this box fit my featherweight. I don't know if they are all original to the box or not though.

Some of these fit and some of these don't. The bobbins work in my featherweight and 301a and that makes me happy! I don't know what the lightbulbs will fit. I have another vintage Singer in a cabinet but I have no idea what model it is. I oughtta go check tomorrow morning and see if it takes those bulbs.

These are my treadle parts. I was informed some of these go to a Singer Treadle, which I have, but they were found in the drawers of my Sears and Roebuck Treadle. They are a little rusty, but nothing that will rub off on clothing. I think most of them are still usable.

Here's a shot of the front of the box. Isn't it pretty? Once you get into late 1800's early 1900's the writing and designs on things are just so pretty. Check out the skeleton key too! No idea what that goes to, doesn't work on the sewing machine drawers.

This is my buttonholer, and it also fits on my featherweight. I'm itching to try this out. I really want to play with it tomorrow if I can find sometime. :)

Well, I'm exhausted from the day, and I didn't even get any sewing time in! Just wanted to share some of the interesting attachments I have. If I get time I'll demo some of them as I learn to use them myself.

$5 Thrift Store Score!

2011-10-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love a good yard sale, estate sale, garage sale, or THRIFT STORE! I come from a long line of junkers. ;) We hit a good sale today at the local thrift store, and I still can't believe I found this pretty little machine.

It's a Singer 301a - not a featherweight, but "related" to a featherweight. It sews just as beautifully but is a bit heavier and clunkier. From what I understand it's more heavy duty but I'm still learning about these machines. I'm so thrilled to have it ! I plugged it in at the store but you never know if it "runs" but doesn't stitch...I was so happy when I got it home and tried it out and it stitches!!! Yay!

Mail Day!!! It wasn't squishy, it was BETTER!

2011-10-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness what a sweet surprise I got in the mail today! My bloggy friend Leah sent me the sweetest package today! If only she weren't all the way on the other side of the country, I would give her the biggest hug. :) Look at what she sent!

Oh and you know she's a good friend because...(insert lots of girliness here)...she sent me thread!!! I have had a mild thread obsession for the past, oh, 10 months. LOL* I have been itching to try some new threads, Superior has been at the top of the list, and lookeee there! I finally get to play! Oooooh pretty pretty!

These two are pegged for my compass quilt...aren't they PERFECT!?

Oh and the pretty green batik fabric she sent! Ooooh I'm in love!

Leah thank you so much, you are such a thoughtful person, that meant so much to me! :)

A tip I discovered while trying to fix something else...

2011-10-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

Of course, I haven't solved my original problem...but when I went looking to fix an issue with skipped stitches while free motioning I happened to find this little trick. NEAT! An issue I had been having with monofilament and poly threads is that they are so fine that they tangle and break before I even get to the sewing part! After several broken needles and a few swear words I ended up employing this really neat set up. A safety pin duct taped to the back of my sewing machine and my thread placed in a jar. It works! I still am having skipped stitches so I think my next move is onto another brand of thread. BUT, no more tangles. :) Just thought I'd share.

Good Job Husband

2011-10-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

The Hubbers got batteries for the camera this afternoon - good job Hubby! You know I can't live without my digital photos. Lol* So here is the little toy sewing machine my parents gave me...aren't I lucky? How old would you guess this is? We are thinking 1930's - 1940's...you think newer? Older?

Up Late on a Saturday Night

2011-10-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

It's official. My "partying" days are over. Lol* I don't know if it has anything to do with turning 30, but it's 12:30 am, technically on a Sunday, and I haven't the least bit of interest in being out and about. Does this mean I'm a real grown up now? LOL* Sometimes it hardly feels like it.

Anyhow, today was a nice lazy day indoors. Rainy, cold, and yucky outside, so we spent the day together as a family. We had a nice pancake breakfast, and stromboli for dinner - everyone's favorite dish. It was such a nice day. I had to run out earlier just by myself, (a rare treat!), to pick up some batting and on a whim decided to stop by my parents on the way home. I cannot wait to post about it, my parents had been out shopping earlier that day and picked up a little old toy sewing machine for me!!! I have always wanted to collect them but they are so hard to come by ... and when you do come accross one, lovely as they are, they are often out of my stay at home Mom budget. My camera battery just died on me though so no pictures tonight. PHOOEY! I so wanted to show it off. :) Hopefully next post...

So this is what I've been up late working on...

I've actually had this log cabin top sitting in my UFO pile for quite some time, and I knew it would be a beauty once it was quilted. That's the amazing thing about the quilting in particular about making a quilt...the design you choose can take an "ok" top and make it a showstopper. Those little details, they are huge, and it makes such a difference. It's so fun watching the transformation from scraps to an elegant heirloom quilt.

I am having so much fun with my feathers. Lol* Aren't they pretty? I love them combined with scrappy patchwork. Feathers are so elegant and fancy, it's almost like wearing pearls and jeans...but it looks so good!!! Hoping to have this quilt in my shop by Monday.

Modern Snack Mats/Rug Mugs

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

I think these are so cute! Using up the very last of my Kate Spain Terrain fabric - although I will have to buy more because it's just so darn pretty when quilted...I LOVE it.

Circular Geese Top Finished

2011-09-29T08:01:00.000-07:00

I finished this top a few weeks ago but have been too busy to take pictures and post it...so...here it is! Finally! I've been working on this off and on for over a year. The design has changed several times but I'm thrilled with how it turned out. I've had several people ask me for a pattern, and I'm working on that currently. It will be available in both a traditional paper version and PDF version in the next few weeks. Now...to QUILT IT! :)

Spring Blooms PDF Version

2011-09-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

Hey, look at me all stepping into modern times. ;) Lol* My pattern experimenting continues - Spring Blooms is now available in a PDF version. Pattern is emailed directly to your inbox within 24 hours of purchase. :)

http://www.pumpkinpatchquilter.etsy.com/

Silly Jack O' Lantern Quilt Finished!

2011-09-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

I really love how this turned out - it was an experiment, but I think it's adorable! :)

What's on the Sewing Machine Today...

2011-09-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

I don't want to completely give it away, but here is what I'm working on today...it's gonna be awfully cute! :)

Slow Start to the Week

2011-09-20T04:50:00.000-07:00

I am really enjoying my time on Etsy, I have to say. If you have ever wanted to sell your crafts or quilts but never found the right venue, it's a wonderful place to sell and shop alike. Because I am a stay at home Momma I have a little more freedom than a working Mom in that I can stay in my pj's all day and make little things while my daughter is napping. It can be a s-l-o-w process with lots of interruptions, but fun none the less. I find it very difficult with my lifestyle of taking care of a baby all day, taking children to sports and activities after school, and then doing all that you must do to keep children fed, clean, dressed, and ready for another day of school and preparing for craft shows. So Etsy allows me to make what I can make when I can make it. Boy has the world changed, where you can sell your crafts from home - but what a WONDERFUL thing!

On the sewing front it's been a slow start. A very nice woman requested another little quilted spiderweb topper so I made her this...

...I have materials to make a couple more so I am going to get on that today. I have so many ideas for little things I would like to make, but the baby is teething and coming down with a little cold so cuddling with Emma has taken up a lot of my time. You know a crabby baby just needs a lot of snuggling! My favorite thing this time of year is watching the spooky ghosty shows and cuddling up with the kiddos under a blanket. So off we go. :) Hopefully at naptime I get some sewing done!

Experimenting ... Halloween Framed Art

2011-09-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

More doodle art...I thought this was cute for Halloween lol*

Tea for Two Placemat and Runner Set...and Some Doodling

2011-09-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

This little tea for two placemat and runner set I am pleased to say immediately generated a lot of interest on Etsy! What a good feeling! I love how the back turned out...the light colored thread against the bleached white muslin really shows of the quilting.

I spent some time (probably a little too much time) blog hopping yesterday. While I love my quilts, once in a while I like to dabble in other arts as well. I love oil painting, pastels, charcoals, knitting, crochet, soap molding, mixed media arts...as a matter of fact my Husband said I change hobbies everytime the wind blows. I like that about myself though. :) I have a LOT of interests. The way I see it, life is so fun, there are SO MANY things I want to do! Sometimes, even at 30, knowing I have quite a lot of life left to live (if God would be so kind to allow me to live a long life), I still feel in a hurry to jam all the arts and crafts into my schedule as possible. Partly because I get lost when I'm being artsy fartsy and lose track of time, but partly because I know that I will never get to do everything. But darn it, I'm gonna try!

So anyhow, my fascination with art quilts led me to an amazing doodling blog...and looking at all the delicious and inspiring art work I thought...I can do that! Maybe not as well, as the artist is a professional, but I certainly could have a fun time playing and making it my own.

So I started with a little doodle...

...that became a sort of tiny painting...

...that became this...

My very supportive Husband came home and saw my little doodle, and immediately said, "Nice, but what are you going to DO with that?!" LOL* Thanks Husband! I don't know yet...I think it might make an awfully cute handmade card. I made a little pumpkin too and a few other doodads. Boy is it fun to play. :)

Spiderweb Snack Mats/Mug Rugs

2011-09-15T04:34:00.000-07:00

More spiderweb fun...I thought these snack mats were awful cute and fun. I have to make more because the kids LOVE them. LOL*

I actually think the back turned out really cute! I like how with the muslin for backing you can really see the thread colors.

Way to Go Walmart!!!

2011-09-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

I received this in the mail yesterday...FABRICS ARE BACK! YAY!!!

Woohoo!!! There has been a lot of talk about Walmart getting rid of their fabric and crafts department and selling just prepackaged precut fabric...looks as if all the petitions and letters paid off!!! I know I for one cannot afford to make all of my projects from quilt shop fabric, though I love to patronize our area shops. Also having lower cost fabric and supplies allows me to offer some of my quilts and crafts at lower prices, so everyone can enjoy hand made items. Way to go Walmart!!!

Red and Purple Table Topper Finished

2011-09-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

I was able to get this on Etsy today. I wasn't really happy at first about the direction of the feathers but now that it's completed I think it's really interesting. I think I'm going to have fun playing around with this type of quilting. :)

Working on more ways to play with spiderwebs today. I will post a few pictures tomorrow. ;)

Another Finish - Woohoo!

2011-09-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

Yay! I'm so happy with how this turned out, it's so cute! This one goes on Etsy...now I'm off to eat a stromboli dinner with the family, have some popcorn with the girls and watch Dispicable Me, and then make another lil' Halloween table topper for ME! :)

Quilted Spiderwebs Mini-Tutorial

2011-09-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

Playing with spiderwebs...eek! Lol* Can you believe Halloween is right around the corner? The girls keep coming up to the sewing machine as I work on this to feel the spiderwebs and comment on the candy corn...kind of makes me hungry! ;) Here's a little mini-photo tutorial on how I created the webs...I think they are so cute!

Start by creating lines through your block. I began with an X from corner to corner. Then trace back over the lines and create another line going through the center of the block. You can go back and make another line going through the block if you want to, but I left it at this. ;)

Now make swooping lines connecting the straight lines you made...creating the spiderweb effect...

Continue connecting lines all the way around until you have filled the entire block with web...

...and now you have a spiderweb!

I did swirls in the candy corn for additional cuteness. ;)

Mail Day

2011-09-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

Fabric...EEK!!! Pretty pretty pretty pretty pretty... ;)

More Thread Experimentation and Giveaway Winner

2011-09-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a few amazing quilt artists blogs (Patsy Thompson, MarveLes Art Studios, and Ferret Fabricates to be exact) I have been glued to the sewing maching playing again with thread and quilting.

Wish these pictures could be better and show the true colors of this little project. The thread is much more vivid in person. I goofed up on my feather and where I turned the feather I had planned on ending and beginning a new feather, but instead ended up with this sort of wonky change in direction. The first part of the feather I am in love with though.

I think this would be the perfect little project to experiment with bobbin work. I have heard so much about Ricky Tims line of thread, Razzle Dazzle (Superior Threads), and I think I will place an order and try it out. I am really liking the shade called icicles. It is described as "white" and "pearlescent"...sounds like it would work wonderfully with the swirls I have already quilted into this with dark purple thread.

Here is what I used so far...three inexpensive poly trilobal embroidery threads from Coats & Clark, and Dritz invisible monofiliment in the bobbin (for all three colors). I had a lot of skipped stitches and just plain wierd things happening when I began using the poly thread...I don't know if it's thread weight or my machine or what, but I started using the monofiliment and I haven't had any of those problems. I am very good about changing my needle and use a size 14 sharp needle so I don't think that was the issue. In any case unless I really need the underside to be as colorful as the front I like the way things went much better with this combiniation.

GIVEAWAY WINNER

Well, I didn't reach my goal of 100 comments (or ANYWHERE near it LOL*) but hey, who can complain about 26! LOL* That's 26 times you took out of your busy schedules to pay me a little attention and participate, so for that I thank you all very much. ;) I also really appreciate all of your thoughtful and encouraging words...you really cannot know how truly motivating and inspiring they are!

The winner for a free copy of my very first lil' pattern, Spring Blooms, is Marj from Eclectic Quilter! Thank you Marj for participating! I hope when you make your lil' quilt you will share a picture with us. ;)

3D Pinwheel Block Tutorial

2011-09-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Several of you have asked for a tutorial on the 3D pinwheels I used to make my youngest daughters baby quilt. So here you go! ;)

Step One: Cut yourself 4 squares of each your focus fabric, and background fabric. You can pick any size square you want, depending on how large you want your pinwheel. I chose 3" squares - my finished block size will be 5" x 5".

Step Two: Layer your squares right sides together, placing your focus fabric on top, like this...

Now fold the focus fabric down, like this. Fingerpress with your thumb or thumbnail.

Now fold again, like this...again use your thumbnail to fingerpress.

Pin in place. :)

Do this with all four layered squares. Arrange into a pinwheel to prepare for sewing. :)

Step 3: Now take the top two squares...or the bottom two, doesn't matter...

Line up the edges to be stitched, being careful not to lose the point of your pinwheel in the process! It may help to place an extra pin on that loose piece there...

Pin...

Sew!

Now you should have something that looks like this...

I like to press my seams open for this block...it gets VERY bulky.

Here's a picture of what NOT to do. I got a little excited and didn't match up myseams well. Now if I were to sew this there's a pretty good chance I'll sew the point of my pinwheel off. If you look at the quilt top I made, I may or may not have done this a few times. LOL* *blush* I'm not going to admit it if I did. ;)

Now repeat for the remaining two pieces...and layer right sides together again to finish the block, taking care to match up that inner seam.

Sew and press. For the completed block i like to spray a little water or Best Press back there when I press to help it stay open and reduce bulk.

Turn it over, and, TA-DA! A perfectly cute little 3D pinwheel block!

It Feels Like July and Another Table Topper

2011-09-03T03:06:00.000-07:00

WOW is it hot tonight. Well, this morning - it's about 6am right now. My lil' booger is supposed to be sleeping but has discovered her little voice instead! LOL* She's in her bassinet creating a little baby symphony of sounds...so cute! But they will be even cuter once I've had my coffee! Lol* UGH. This heat is getting to me.

I made another little table topper yesterday. I really love this and am SO tempted to keep it...but I'm saving up for something special so...goodbye little quilt and hello Etsy. It was really fun to quilt though. I keep telling myself, if I can do ALL of this on my little Simplicity Quilter's Classic...just imagine what I could do with a Bernina or better yet...a LONGARM!!! Oh to dream. ;) Some day I will have my long arm. I think it would make feathers SO much more fun and versatile for my quilts...right now the most frustrating thing about the feathers is I can only make them so big and once I go beyond that they start to look wobbly and distorted because I have to stop and get another grip on the quilt to move it under the needle.

Oh look, I just noticed my TOE is in that picture!!! LOL* I was trying not to do that! Way to be professional Valerie! LOL* Oh well, I'm not going back to take new pictures, so my toe will just have to stay in there. LOL*

It seems really slow around blogland, is it just me? There are a few of us quilting up a storm but it's kind of been a lull on the reader. Is everyone too hot still to quilt?

**Next post will be a little tutorial on how to make that pinwheel block. ;)

That's a Whole Lotta Pinwheels.

2011-09-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

I finally finished Emma's pinwheel quilt top. If you attempt to make one of these, let me make a suggestion. Don't use a psychotic amount of pinwheels as I did here. This is supposed to be a baby quilt for my four month old daughter...without backing, batting, or any kind of quilting whatsever, this little quilt would probably smother her! LOL* I am thinking I'm going to back it with minkie and leave out the batting alltogether. I will do something VERY simple for the quilting, just to keep it from shifting when washing. For now I think it will just be a throw for her to lay on, play with, and to put over the side of her crib...but I don't think I'm going to put it over her unless it's like, -20 degrees outside. LOL* Lesson learned. ;) Sometimes more is just...MORE.

It still turned out kinda neat didn't it? Can't you just imagine a little baby who's just learned to sit on their own and touch and feel playing with all those little folds and shapes? I think this will be such a great little blankie for playing on.

If any of you would like me to I can do a little tutorial on how to make this block. I know when I first started the quilt a lot of you asked for patterns and instructions. :)

Fall Runner

2011-09-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Another finish...I am really proud of the quilting on this one!

A Little Etsy Item

2011-08-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

Getting a little more of that feather practice in while I'm at it... ;)

Back to School

2011-08-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day back to school for my babies, oh how bittersweet! I barely know what to do with myself and all the free time, it's just me and the baby today. I've already pittered away most of my day making phone calls and talking about how much I miss them - before I know it they will be home! I suppose I will go weed that garden, it was hard not to notice the weeds as I took the girls' photographs by the morning glories and black eyed susans. Then chores, then hopefully a little time for sewing.

After hearing all about their very exciting first day of school of course!

Pattern Giveaway and Happy Sunday

2011-08-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

Uh oh, we need more comments! Please enter my pattern giveaway by commenting on this post:

http://pumpkinpatchquilter.blogspot.com/2011/08/pattern-give-away.html

Happy Sunday! :)

Almost a Top and Giveaway Update

2011-08-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

Geese! I love geese...especially pretty pretty batik geese. ;) This quilt has been in the works for over a year now, but I'm finally nearing the end. Working on my last two borders today. The girls have a game for cheerleading this afternoon so I may not get to do much until late this evening, but I will be dreaming of it all day! :)

I updated the pattern giveaway to give you all more chances to win! Don't forget to go check it out... ;)

Pattern Give Away

2011-08-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

I tried my hand at pattern writing, and I thought this was awful cute! I am always coming up with project ideas and I have been wanting to do this for years. Life is short, so why not? Here goes...

My first pattern! Alright folks I'm not saying I'm Jinny Beyer or anything, but this was fun and I'm an awful proud girl. Here are a couple color options:

I would like to give away a free pattern to one of you reading out there, and say thank you for the encouragement and inspiration. I have come into contact with so many wonderful people through blogging, and I'll tell you what, NOTHING can improve one's self esteem more than a couple comments telling you "good job!" :)

This is going to be an easy peasy give away. All you have to do is comment and you're in. Be sure I have a way to contact you if you should win. If you're email isn't available through your profile or you don't have a blog, please leave me some way to get ahold of you.

This giveaway starts...as soon as this post is published. When does it end? Whenever my little heart pleases! As long as you are commenting I will keep it open...when comments slow down...I will close it up and draw a winner. (In other words, you'll have to check back often for a winner!)

Thank you again to all of you who have been following along and "hanging" out with me for the past several years. It's been so much fun and I look forward to many more years of blogging, and lots of new and fun exciting things to blog about! :)

***This Giveaway is Now Closed***

My Little Quilter

2011-08-25T06:15:00.000-07:00

How did I get so lucky? My Husband is truly wonderful, and my kids are just amazing. I love them to bits and more. My oldest is SO proud of her first hand pieced block...as she should be. This is my overwhelming joy, my family. :)

Christmas in ... August

2011-08-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

Only a crafting mind would start thinking of Christmas this far ahead, right? Us sewers and quilters know it takes time to create our treasures, so I've begun thinking ahead.

I bought this panel a few years back at the very first and only quilt retreat I've ever been on. My Mother and I went together and a vedor there was selling the collection and I went a little overboard. I made a quilt top from another panel purchased that has also yet to be quilted...I better get on that. :)

More thread and feather experimenting...

I never thought I'd get that into panels, but this whole thread thing just opened up a new dimension of quilting to fall in love with. This is why I just NEVER get sick of quilts!!! There is so much creativity to be had.

A Tote for Me and a Quilt for Etsy :)

2011-08-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

All those totes and I really wanted one for myself. I showed you the Kate Spain fabric I purchased to make one...and I finally finished! I've been "toting" it around all weekend, I love it!

This is the front...

...the back...

...a closeup of the stitching...

...the handles...I wanted a little more color in the handles so I used some of the charms there too...

...a closeup of the inside stitching...

...isn't it pretty? This picture just doesn't do the richness of that fuschia and orange together justice. I'm really happy with it. It's nice and sturdy and I can toss it in the wash if it gets dirty. Perfect for a Momma of 3!

Oh and I cannot forget my Etsy chinese coin quilt...I am so happy with how this turned out. Isn't it pretty? I am so glad I finally experimented with poly thread and bleached muslin fabric. I just love this clean crisp look.

More feather practice! LOL* I am so happy with it though. I can really see the improvement, I think the spines on these are much more polished looking. I can only improve the more I do them.

Thready Freddy.

2011-08-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

That's a lot like Feathers Shmeathers. ;)

Got my thread order today, and bought some thread on sale from Jo-Anns after my good experience with poly for quilting. Also bought some low loft poly (fleece) batting to experiment with. I love the look and feel of cotton but I'm going broke at $13 a yard and hopefully this poly will give a similar look and cut the cost a little. I can also lower the price a bit on my Etsy quilts, as I know not everyone afford $100 for a baby quilt. We will see. The biggest thing I want to get done is my tote! I have been making so many for others I want my own! :)

Anyhow...here's my pretty new things... :)

If I didn't think I could do feathers before...

2011-08-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

I know I can do them now! LOL* I think I have pretty much quilted this little quilt within an inch of it's quilty life!!! The feathers are not perfect...actually they are a bit sloppy, BUT, I really got a feel for what the best way of doing feathers for me is and it was great practice. It's actually growing on me. I am tempted to keep it...after all we spent about 10 hours together yesterday! LOL* Here are some pictures...I'm kinda proud...even if it is all warped out of shape! Oh well I need some practice, but it's still pretty. ;)

Feather Schmeathers.

2011-08-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well, they are far from perfect, but I thought my nightmare quilt would be the perfect quilt to practice on. I have already offered this quilt as a functional quilt for my In-Laws to use on their boat. I have of course quilted a nice big ol' wrinkle in the back, lol*, but at least now I can go to town and experiment and not worry about imperfections. I thought even if the quilting isn't perfect, at least the colors are bright and right for the boat.

You can see where I began, there on the left - the feathers are small and kind of funny looking! LOL* I had to get my rythem going and figure out how the easiest way to create feathers for me would be. I like those big chunky round feathers, for a quick over all feathered look, but my favorite ones on quilts are the long flowy skinny ones that really give that antiqued feathery look.

Still gotta work at achieving that...but it is really FUN!!!

Motivated by the refusal to be at the mercy of any thread or fabric company, I purchased POLYESTER thread today. I have always been fascinated by the mysterious world of thread and what it can do for my quilt. My budget hasn't afforded me much other than inexpensive spools of 100% cotton (which is just fine I might add), but lately there has been this need in me to experiment. I have blogged about this before, so many of you probably already know I've played a little with rayons. But today my starving artist Momma of 3's budget could afford this little spool of Coats and Clark trilobal polyester thread...

...and what fine feathers it did create! I can DEFINITELY see the difference, can you? I really love the silky shiny look it gives - it's a different world to quilt with than cotton. I noticed that I had to play a lot with tension and could not get away with using this in an old fashioned metal bobbin. Yes, I still have old metal bobbins that I can't bare to part with, so when I run out of the new plastic drop ins I fill those metal clunkers up. Usually they just make a lot of noise but quilt fine, but this polyester thread likes to catch on it and bunch up underneath. No fun. But I seem to have gotten it going fine with the plastic bobbin so that I can go full speed without too many hiccups.

I need some practice, but I think I'll feel good about feathers AND polyester when I'm done with this quilt. :)

The Death of Customer Service and a Table Runner

2011-08-16T19:47:00.000-07:00

I just had such an awful conversation with one of my favorite fabric and thread compaines...I literally was in tears over it, thinking I could possibly never order from this place again because they just treated me like I truly didn't matter. I won't name names as of yet because they said they would take care of it, but it's someplace that I name drop like crazy and was absolutely dumbfounded at the way they spoke to me. I have never had such an experience with this particular place, it has always up until now been really wonderful. I really hope they do something, even just an "I'm sorry, that wasn't right on our part" would make my day at this point. Wow. What a crummy way to start a blog post, I know, but wheew, what ever happened to customer service? I'm not expecting anyone to move mountains, but at least just act act a little understanding towards my complaint and maybe like you value me as a customer a little. I will elaborate once things have fully resolved, unless they just leave me hanging and never respond to me again. I may very well soon be professing love to a new line of thread and never looking back. Oh what a phooey stinky day!

Here's the good part - I did get a runner done to put on Etsy. I am SO tempted to keep this. But Hubby's birthday is this Saturday and my daughters want these fancy light up shoes...so...on Etsy this pretty little runner goes. :)

I Just Can't Stop!

2011-08-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

I am really on a roll here! Maybe it's the few sales that I've had that are motivating me, it's really nice to have a little extra fabric money. But also I think it's been so long since I've sewn that I just can't get enough. I really missed this!

Here's a little pincushion I made...isn't it cute? I don't know if I'm going to put these on Etsy or not. Do people buy pincushions? I don't know. Lol* But it IS awful cute and I cut a bunch of fabric to make more. These could use up a lot of scraps too...and some vintage buttons that I could barely part with, but you know, what fun is collecting fabric and supplies if I'm never going to use them?

You know I am finding I just love the quilting process. Even on my little Simplicity Quilter's Classic. My new goal with this whole Etsy thing is to save up for a good sewing machine...maybe a Pfaff or a Bernina...or really, a Viking Husquavarna...I demo'd one of those with the embroidery option at Jo-Ann's and I loved it! We shall see. It will require lots of saving but I am itching to have a machine with stitch regulation...I think it will dramatically improve my quilting and allow me to do some things that my little economical machine doesn't like to do.

My Nightmare Quilt

2011-08-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

This quilt I love and hate at the same time. I'm not happy with the muslin I purchased for it and won't be using it again. There have been several flaws and I've had to cut completely new pieces of fabric and thin spots. Also I didn't anticipate this, my mistake really, the dark blue threads from the blocks show through the white fabric! ARGH! This was my fault, I knew I should have been more careful using bleached muslin like this, so this one is going to be for sale, but as a "slightly imperfect" quilt. I think it will still be quite beautiful and will still keep someone warm. But still, what a pain in the patoot! I sold another tote to a friend so I'm just waiting to get paid and then I'll buy some white thread to quilt this...the Coats and Clark thread I have for some reason my machine hates. It always twists up and breaks when I try to free motion with it.

Out of My Comfort Zone - Kate Spain Terrain

2011-08-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

Well this is really out of my normal comfort zone...but lately I've been finding myself drawn to these bright loud modern colors. In the past I have stuck towards more traditional prints, primitive/country or a little vintage. But this line is just so pretty! I have been doing well with the totes, I just sold another yesterday, woohoo! But I thought that I needed to make one for myself, so I started this last night. The fabric is my favorite prints from a charm pack of Kate Spain's Terrain that I purchased at Cottonpicker's Quilt Shop in Chardon, Ohio. Isn't it pretty? I am going back as soon as I get paid for more. I ordered some thread from Connecting Threads (the sale on spools ends tomorrow!) to match, and some to go with my circular geese compass quilt, so just waiting for that to come in so I can quilt it. I can't wait to carry this loud little tote around! Lol*

Quilt Inspiration

2011-08-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

I get really hung up on a quilt sometimes when I see it. I took about a dozen pictures of this one at the quilt show this year at Lake Metroparks in Kirtland, Ohio. The quilting in it was AMAZING. I particularly love this anchor. My in-laws are boaters, so while the boat itself scares me to death and you won't find me out on the lake EVER, I just love anything nautical themed.

I HAVE to try and do this kind of quilting!

While this incredible quilt didn't win any awards in the pictorial competition it was entered into, it DID win viewers choice...and I must say I voted for it!!! ;)

Another Tote, and Security Blankets

2011-08-08T18:38:00.000-07:00

I finished my Grandma's tote and am making another one but a little bit smaller...these are so much fun to make! I love them! I also am going through this zebra print/black and white phase, so I made a few of these baby sensory stimulating security blankets. They have pink ruffles and are backed with minky...sooo soft! I thought at first, "this is cute, but is baby really going to play with this?" LET ME TELL YOU Emma LOVES it! I was really surprised! The black and white REALLY does get her attention, she just sits and coos at this little blankie and loves to feel it and of course, chew it. Lol* They are machine washable too - which is good because we already spilled half a bottle of formula on hers. Lol* I probably won't sell those on Etsy though, there is another lady selling similar ones and I don't want her to think I'm trying to compete with her. I just thought I'd sell a few at local fairs and to friends and family. I think they are so cute! I want to make a big quilt like this...

Mom's Tote

2011-08-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

Learned a lot making this tote...some things I will do again and some things I will not. All in all I love it, and more importantly so did my Mom! My Grandmother ordered one a little bit smaller, so, woohoo! Lol*

Etsy Tote

2011-08-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

Stayed up tonight to finish this tote I am making for an Etsy order...from my Dad. LOL* I'm doing really good business with my parents if not with anyone else! Oh well it is motivating me. ;) I'm having fun and thinking up more ideas for things I'd like to make to sell. So far I've sold enough to buy both of my daughters the Twinkle Toe Sketchers they want for school, so I'd say it's a success. Lol*

Anyhow here's a progress picture of the tote...my camera battery is dead so I will have to see if my Daddio will let me borrow his tomorrow and I'll take a couple pictures of the finished project before it goes to my Momma.

My First Tote!

2011-08-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

Woohee! My first tote, I'm very proud. :) Here is my daughter McKenzie modeling her new bag...

The front...

The back...

Inside!!!

Cute! This was so fun to make and I'm surprised how quickly it went together. Now I need to make her sis' Abbey her princess one...it's sitting on the cutting table all ready to quilt but I'm out of batting!

Minky Baby Shower Gift

2011-07-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

I've been working this evening on a baby shower gift for my good friend who is having a little boy...what do you think? It's a security blanket...I have a crocheted one that I used all the time with my middle child and even use now with Emma. They are nice for cuddling especially in this heat when you don't really need a full size blanket. I am LOVING minky! This one has little monkeys on it, but I also made a second one in girl colors with minkie that I think I will try a shot with on Etsy. What fun! I think my little Miss Emma needs one of these too...so soft!

Placemats...I'm on a roll!

2011-07-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

Look at me all sewing up a storm! Lol* My Dad ordered these placemats from me on Etsy to give to my Mom for an anniversary gift. Awww, thanks for the sale Dad. ;) Hope Mom likes 'em.

Working now on a little boy baby quilt, and also trying to get Emma's pinwheel quilt finished up. I'll get there, slowly, but surely. ;)

Another Etsy Quilt...

2011-07-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

...and I bet you can guess who my model was. ;)

Now available for purchase through my Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/pumpkinpatchquilter

Christmas in July

2011-07-17T17:16:00.000-07:00

I am literally dripping sweat down my cheeks...but still managed to feel cool as I finished this table topper...

...and I found it ironic that my tangerine nail polish sort of matched this project!

I just love this Minick and Simpson fabric...

This quilt is also available for purchase through my etsy shop. :)

My favorite part of making a quilt...

2011-07-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

...is finishing it! A cutie table topper finished. This is going up for purchase on my etsy shop...

34.5" x 25" Available for purchase at http://www.etsy.com/pumpkinpatchquilter

Baby Girl Number 3

2011-07-14T13:24:00.000-07:00

I know I've been MIA for a few months, but I think most of you know we just had a baby! Well..she's two months old now if you can believe it. Lol* Now that things are settling down I've got quilts on the brain...you knew I'd be back didn't you? I'm utterly addicted. ;) The SAD thing is I never finished Emma's quilt...but it hasn't been really cool enough to use much more than recieving blankets, so I'm determined to get my act in gear and finish this baby before winter.

That said...I have to show off some pictures...I promise quilty updates soon! ;)

Here is a picture of the first time I laid eyes on my new little angel...

...the day she came home...

...the first week...

...the second week...

...and if you can believe it, this is her just yesterday! She's already two months old...look at how much she's grown!

My lil' Emma is even smiling now, lol* We just love her little dimples!

Hope all is well in blogland, and I will be popping around to visit all my quilting bloggy buddies very soon! ;)

Garden Blog

2011-03-30T08:57:00.000-07:00

Well I thought I'd start a new blog just for gardening posts. Every year I seem to switch to gardening this time of year and just to keep things uniform I'll start keeping this blog just for quilt updates and start posting about my garden on my other blog. http://pumpkinpatchgardener.blogspot.com Happy Spring! ;)

Gardening Season Has Begun!

2011-03-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

This was not an easy task in maternity jeans. Lol* The gardening season has officially begun for me, and only 5 weeks before baby Emma is due. ;)

Inside my less than pleasing to the eye chicken wire contraption are carrots. I have two enemies this year - rabbits and raccoons! The rabbits like to eat my carrots down to a nub killing the plant before I get anything to eat. So I buried this chicken wire as best I could and planted my carrot seeds. Outside on either side inbetween my make shift stake markers are peas. Nobody seemed to bother my peas last year so I'll take my chances. Raccoons had fun in my corn a few years back but I have yet to think up a good defense against them...that I can afford anyhow! ;)

After trudging through all that heavy muddy dirt I'm pooped. At least I have two things in though. Lol* My goal for the rest of the week is to get some of the yard cleaned up, start working on clearing out the debris from the perennial beds and get my spinach and radishes planted. If you know me at all though, you know how I am with plans. LOL* So we shall see what the week brings.

What a Furry Little Piggy!

2011-03-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

This chunky patoot has been eating all the bird food! LOL* Sheesh, pace yourself there piggo. ;)

What's Green In My Garden on March 17, 2011

2011-03-17T11:48:00.003-07:00

Well, this guy isn't green, but he did come from my garden... ;)

Tulips I left in the containers they came from at the garden center, they lived! Often if I don't plant these it's hit or miss if they come back...SO happy they did.

More tulips popping up in the garden...I can't remember what these looked like, I think they were dark purple and pinks. I'm really excited to see the tulips when they are blooming!

Our March front garden bed...I started this four years ago when we moved into this house. All that was there were the shrubs and the stoop...my gardening experience started with a few tulips that that put in next to the stoop and has taken over most of the yard. This year I'm getting a start on perennials in the backyard.

Brown...can't wait to see green in here!

Hollyhocks! I have been trying for three years to grow these. The first year I started with some seeds from my Mother's garden that I winter sowed. They grew and grew...and then Hubbers accidently chopped 'em down with the weed whacker. Hence, the brick border that is now there to keep Hubby and his weed whacker away! I started over fresh last year with new winter sown seeds and FINALLY, this year I'm hoping to see blooms. *Fingers Crossed*

More hollyhocks that made it through the winter...

Primrose that came from Hubby's Grandma...was just a hunk she had thrown in a card board box from when she thinned her garden...boy has it multiplied!

Oh it's getting close! It's in the mid 50's today and teasing us all...spring is right around the corner!

Is it Spring yet?

2011-03-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hello! Here I am!

I apologize for not posting sooner, this pregnancy has been a bit difficult on my body. I'm officially 8 months pregnant today, and I'm ready for baby! ;) It's been hard to sit at the computer for very long...or the sewing table. Right now I'm gearing up for spring so my focus has again turned to seeds. :)

For those of you who asked about the pinwheel quilt and where I got the pattern - well I didn't use a pattern but I did use a tutorial for the block. I made the pattern up as I went, but you can learn how to make your own 3d pinwheel block by following this link. Thank you so much to tooMuchFabric for posting your tutorial!

Today's plans are to get out into the snow and clear out my little mini-greenhouse. House needs a good cleaning and then I'm going to get a start on winter sowing the perennial seeds I've stashed away since last year. I didn't get nearly as much accomplished as I'd wanted to last summer, and may not again this year either with baby coming, but I'm gonna make the best of it. Yay!

3d Pinwheels

2011-02-12T13:44:00.001-08:00

Well I've started about six different quilts for baby Emma, but this one was just so darn cute I couldn't help trying it. I'm thinking this might be the one I actually finish! Lol* Here's a few pictures of how it's coming along!

Valentine's Day Finish

2011-01-29T05:26:00.001-08:00

Taking a break from my more involved projects to make a few Valentine's decorations, and work on Baby Emma's quilt. Here's some shots of two little things I made...

The little table runner below I made for my youngest's preschool teacher. She had surgery on her foot a few weeks ago and just returned this week, but is still recovering. I thought it would be a nice "welcome back".

My tension went a little crazy and and so my free motion got a little wonky in some spots, but I'm still happy with these. I haven't decided if I'm going to block them or not. Maybe the wallhanging I made for the door so it lies nice and flat.

This is the wallhanging for the front door - I thought it turned out cute! :) I experimented with a new technique on my binding too this time around. I couldn't believe I actually did it right the first try! I had always learned to tuck my binding into itself where you stop/start. Well that's easy and all but it creates a big bulky lump that is REALLY noticeable in little quilts. So I measured and cut the binding to exactly fit the quilt...and you can almost not even tell where it stops and starts! I will be doing that from now on, on all my bindings. What a difference!

Oh and yes...now that I'm looking at this picture, the wallhanging mini will be blocked. LOL* I see those corners are going every which way.

Pictorial Quilt Experiment

2011-01-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, well this could turn out to be a total disaster, but I'm going to attempt a pictorial quilt. LOL* I am uber cheap and nearly out of printer ink so I just brought up a favorite picture I'd taken of my girls on my computer monitor and traced around some of the shaded areas. I think I'm going to run to Office Max and blow this up a bit, depending on how much that costs. Then play. I have no idea what I'm doing so be prepared for utter failer. Is it utter or udder? I think an udder is part of a female cows anatomy so we'll go with utter. ;)

Woohee!! Almost done!!!

2011-01-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

I was a very artsy kid growing up, I always thought I would go to art school and make a career of it. I remember as a kid doing a lot of sketching, and I used to love to show my parents all the progress I'd make on my drawings. My Dad used to say to me, "are you going to show me every line as you draw it?"

Now I'm all grown up and I have my very own little blog to talk about quilts until my hearts content...so the answer Dad? Yes. Yes I am. I am going to show you every stitch as I stitch it. I'm going to enjoy every moment of it too!!!

Here is my aqua compass that is looking less and less like a compass to me...but lookee there, we have a center!!! I decided after a few mishaps and many four letter words that I would just applique with fusible web that darn inner star...and you know what? I'm so happy I did. It may be not be a tribute to immaculate piecing but it looks half way decent and at this point that's all I'm concerned with.

What is it that they say? If it cannot be spotted by a man passing by on a galloping horse...let it be. Sounds like a good plan to me. ;)

Here is what I've finally decided is my goal in finishing this quilt. I had all sorts of plans and I played for HOURS in EQ with this design, and I'm thinking at the end of the day, less is more. I picked up some more purple fabric for the solid purple border which is going into the wash here in a few minutes, and then I'll get working on the geese. I'm not sure if I have enough auqua scraps but I was delighted to see that Jo Anns just got in a few new auqua batiks! Woohee!!! Looks like I have an excuse to do more shopping...

Here are a few fun progress pictures. I used that trapunto technique I learned from Patsy Thompson to make my little star pop. It looks kind of pretty from the back too doesn't it?

This was before I trimmed away the excess batting...

The circle isn't quite perfect so I decided just to trapunto the star. I don't really want to draw any more attention to that wonky pink circle!!!

Even with just a little invisible stitching to keep the diamonds down, it's starting to look pretty isn't it?

I'm so happy with this even if it's less than perfect. I am so excited just seeing that center in place that I cannot wait to finish this project. Yay!

Shopping for Bright Batiks

2011-01-07T11:25:00.000-08:00

Over spent at the quilt store today...but it was fun. :)

First Finish for 2011

2011-01-05T07:00:00.001-08:00

Yay! I finished something, and it's only January 5th! I hope I'm setting a trend for the rest of the year... ;)

I am actually really happy with how this turned out! I learned quite a bit with this little experiment. First and foremost it's going to take practice to improve, and this has inspired me to get going on some more practice projects asap!!! Also I think that I probably should have used a topstitch needle because the invisible thread is accompanied by lots and lots of holes!!! I tried spraying this with a little water and pinning it to my ironing board to help it lay nice and flat and square, which really seemed to help so I'm going to do that again for sure. It also helped to hide some of those little holes too, so that's a good thing to know.

All in all I think the trapunto turned out really neat, and now I have some ideas for how to improve it's look in my next projects. The McTavishing is looky very McTavishy, so I'm happy with that as well! I think it will be fun to try in different colors of thread too...

My next obsession is now with hand dyes...I am going to try and stock up on a few bolts of cotton for dyeing and dyes to go with it. I'm not sure how safe they are to play with while pregnant and it seems to be an outdoor type of project so I'll save it for after baby comes when the weather gets warmer in June hopefully. I bet the girls will have fun helping me too. :)

Experimenting with Trapunto, McTavishing, and More...

2011-01-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was supposed to be painting and cleaning...but then something happened. I came across this website and found myself unable to move from my computer chair for nearly three hours. All I can say is WOW. If you want to be inspired to the point of immobility check out Patsy Thompsons blog, I literally went through every post all the way back to 2006 when she first began her website. I love my traditional quilts and primitive brown/red/black palette's, but boy oh boy the colors alone in Patsy's quilts will make you salivate and warm you right up on a cold day in January!

Inspired by her quilts and quilting, I drew up this feathery thingy doodad to experiment with. Patsy also posted a few videos on YouTube demonstrating a really easy trapunto technique. It's hard to see the trapunto here, but scroll down and you'll see a few pictures of what I did.

In the above picture and below I closed up on my attempt at McTavishing. I don't know what Karen McTavish would say about this, lol*, she might not even appreciate me attatching her name to my so called "technique", but hey, it's my first shot!!! Lol* I'm using invisible monofiliment thread for the McTavishing and I also used it some in the trapunto around the feather applique.

More of my "McTavishing". Lol*

Here's a little closeup of the trapunto'ed feather...I used more invisible thread and my new Sulky variegated in pink and yellow...

Here's a better view of the feather before I started quilting. This is just the trapunto'ed section. I can see that this is going to take a LOT of practice, but this was fun!

Here's a closeup of the trapunto'ed section from the back...

More Thread Talk

2011-01-02T05:41:00.001-08:00

Seems the same thread favorites keep coming up! Superior/King Tut (King Tut is made by Superior) and Aurifil along with Sulky cotton blendables. The King Tut seems a heavily recurring theme so I think I will have to place an order and try that next.

I also am a huge fan of Connecting Threads Essential Thread. They are by far the most affordable cotton thread I've found with a great selection of colors. My only complaint is they don't keep colors long enough! They no longer carry variegated threads and a lot of their thread sets are phased out to make room for new ones. I would say Coats and Clark is my second go to brand for cotton thread but the color selection isn't as impressive and they are a little more pricey. The thread itself seems a little more sturdy than the Connecting Threads to the touch, even though Connecting Threads and Coats and Clark are both 50 weight mercerized cotton thread intended for machine quilting.

I have read a lot about long arm quilters using Signature polyester cotton blends and I wonder what result one might have with this type of thread on a domestic machine?

Someone asked me in the comments from my last post why I chose rayon for quilting this quilt. My answer to that is, I didn't really go to the store intending on purchasing rayon thread, however, I am definitely up for experimenting. I understand that synthetic threads can deteriorate the cotton in your quilt over time with washing and wear, because the synthetic threads are much stronger than the cotton. My circular geese quilt will likely never be washed, so I'm excited to have an opportunity to experiment with different kinds of thread that I wouldn't normally want to use on a quilt intended for actual use. When I went to JoAnn's all the thread was 50% off and the Sulky Rayon thread offered the best variety of variegated options...I also really like how shiny the rayon thread is and am excited to see what kind of dimension and interest this will add to my finished quilt. I would certainly not choose rayon thread for a typical quilt, but I'm interested in experimenting with embellishments I haven't yet tried before in this project. I may even go the metallic route! What fun! ;)

Thank you for your input and I'd love to hear more thoughts and suggestions!

What is Your Thread Preference?

2010-12-31T12:25:00.000-08:00

QUESTION: What is your thread of choice?

I purchased these three spools of Sulky 100% rayon thread to experiment on my circular geese quilt. I have several questions for anyone who'd be willing to offer their two cents!

1. Have you tried this thread and what are your thoughts?

2. What types of thread do you prefer for machine quilting?

3. Could I fill my bobbin with a less expensive solid color to save on variegated thread or should I bite the bullet and spring for the bigger cones?

4. Any other suggestions or comments?

Thank you! ;)

Compass with Circular Geese...Again :)

2010-12-27T11:47:00.001-08:00

You're probably getting sick of seeing this quilt...but every time I add even a small section to it, it just comes more and more alive! I just have to share...I'm adding the corners to make it square and give a lil' extra aqua kick. Looks like I'm not going to get it done in time for the quilt show, but I want to finish it right rather than just hurry it up to get it entered. Maybe next year? Lol* I need to run to the store for more yellow, and I decided on appliqueing the center star but need to pick up some more thread. I am already envisioning the quilting...I'm thinking feathers in these corners with a varigated thread. I have never done anything like that before, so I'm excited!

Pineapple Progress and Christmas Presents

2010-12-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

My little pineapple blocks are coming along! I am really loving the way they look all together. The original pattern calls for 120 of these 6 inch pinapple blocks. I'm not one for making really large quilts although I'd like this to be big enough to sleep under. I guess it's finished size will depend on how many scraps I have in these colors! Or how long it takes for me to get bored...

I wanted to share a few Christmas gifts I was very excited to recieve...

All three came from Connecting Threads...this is one of their wallhaning quilt kits

of a storm at sea pattern using all batik fabrics. I love the optical illusion it gives of waves.

This book I have been wanting for quite a while. I planned on ordering it months ago but things just kept popping up that were more important. So happy this came to me for Christmas!

Here's a little peak inside... If you're not familiar with Jinny Beyer your missing out! ;) Go check out her website for free blocks and patterns. This book has over 4,000 quilt blocks in it, with color pictures of the pieced blocks in Jinny's signature fabrics. I cannot wait to get a few minutes to really sit with this book. :)

Here's another book that just recently came out I was thrilled to recieve. Gail Garber has been inspiring me with her free form geese, and in this book she explains how to draft your own. My favorite is the quilt on the cover, the colors especially.

I don't even remember where I first discovered Gail Garber...I think it might have been through her blog?

In any case don't the colors in that quilt on the cover remind you alittle of something I've been working on?

Well it's not quite the same. ;) I started this long before I discovered Gail, but now as I'm finishing this quilt I'm finding myself incredibly inspired by her. Can't wait to look at her book more too!

One more thing I wanted to show and tell...these cute fabrics I found in my stash for a baby quilt. Did I mention, it's going to be a GIRL!

Pregnancy Update

2010-12-23T03:36:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to mention, I'm officially 5 months pregnant! I took this picture a few weeks ago, baby is really bumping out now! I'm headed today to find about the sex today, hoping baby cooperates! We tried at my last appointment with no luck. *Fingers crossed!* I really want to know before Christmas so we can buy a few things!

Here's a silly picture from Halloween I thought I'd share. A little late I know. Lol* This was trick or treating in a nearby neighborhood. My Hubby dressed up as Mario, and the girls were Princess Peach and Yoshi. My oldest daughter is Mario obsessed! Lol* Sorry Daddio, this isn't the most flattering angle for that nylon/polyester suit!!! Still a cute picture though. :) Hubbers is all gung ho now about dressing the "whole" family up in a theme next year. We will see...my 8 year old is getting awfully independent, and might not be up for grouping in with the uber uncool parents next year.

For the Love of Featherweights

2010-12-19T05:54:00.001-08:00

I know that quilters aren't the only ones who adore these gorgeous little machines, but I have to say it, the featherweight 221 is my favorite machine hands down for piecing. Now keep in mind I'm still a real newbie to vintage sewing machines, and though I own four of them I still don't know all that much about them. I am a full time stay at home Mother and we are raising our family on one income, so know that you are safe to assume my modern sewing machines are affordable econically priced machines. Maybe one day when I can justify the purchase of a brand new Bernina my feelings might change...but for now, there is just nothing like sewing on my featherweight. The way it sounds, the way it sews, the feelings you get just running your fabric through it...how can you not adore it!?! For a sixty year old machine it's still more portable than any of my modern sewing machines, how's that for an outstanding product? I have taken this machine camping, to friends houses, to shops, to classes, in every room of my own home, it goes everywhere. It costs about the same as an affordable home sewing machine might and seems to give me less hassle. Oh how I adore it!

I don't even enjoy sewing on my treadles the way I enjoy sewing on this. It's not sparkling and certainly been well loved. It could probably use a good cleaning too. But I just had to gush a little, because after months of being out of comission I finally got my featherweight up and running again and I can't wait to sew.

Oh and while I'm at it, I wanted to mention this book. To a lot of you this might be old news, but I still thought I'd share. I bought this book the same time I recieved the featherweight, and it's been a great resource. It tells you how to maintain and refurbish just about everything on your machine, even how to repaint it if you are brave enough to do so. It's called The Featherweight and I, written by Dave Mcallum. You can visit his website at http://featherweight221.com/. He has come out with a dvd that I'm itching to get my hands on as well.

Alrighty enough gushing and on to the sewing. ;)

Snow, Bowl Fillers, a Finish, and Pinapple Quilt

2010-12-13T08:54:00.000-08:00

Well it's beginning to look like winter around these parts! I live in NE Ohio, and right now we are being hit by the first of what will likely be just one of the many snow storms we will be hit with this winter. From now until sometime in March our front yards will all look very similar to this...

The above picture is a view of my front yard from my front stoop and the road...the house accross the street that you can just barely make out is right next to a school...which has been completely blocked out by the white out conditions from the snow!

Below is looking from my front stoop in the other direction...

I had to include a picture of my wintery snow covered garden...I promise it looks much prettier in the spring. ;)

Oh and you all know by now that I finished my wooly sheep top. Yesterday evening I quilted it, nothing special just a primitive style echo/outline quilting. It's not fancy but gives the little top some texture.

I bound it this afternoon and when I get myself motivated I will add a hanging sleeve to the back so I can put it up in the kitchen. Or not. You never can tell. ;)

Here's my lonly little block...if you remember this pinappblock from more than a year ago then you've been my bloggy friend for a very long time! Lol* I wanted to use up some of the hoards of scraps I have laying around in bins so I got started making this very scrappy pinapple quilt. The blocks are only 6 inches or so and I'm thinking the final quilt will probably have a black or ivory sashing. Who knows though, I like to think up all sorts of things but when it comes down to it, seems like I always do something totally different than what I planned. Lol*

Oh and one more thing...wanted to show you the salt dough ornaments I made! Well the girls made ornaments and I made bowl fillers. I thought they turned out awful cute. Some will go in a bag of potpurri and be given out as gifts with a jar candle...some will stay here for me to enjoy. :)

Hard to believe that these literally cost me pennies to make. A few cups of flour, a cup of salt, cut, bake, and paint. I sanded them a little to make them look worn and watered down some burnt sienna accrylic paint to age them. I got the idea from Colleen at And Baby Makes Five...she likes to dip her finished bowl fillers in wax to finish them, and I would like to give that a try sometime soon. For these I just painted them with a clear coat of accrylic paint sealer but I am not nuts about the shiny finish it gives them. Still, awfully cute, thanks for the great tutorial Colleen! ;)

Wooly Sheep Flimsy and Thrift Shopping

2010-12-12T08:00:00.001-08:00

Yay! Look at me, finishing things! Lol* Well mostly finished...I have a birthday party to take the girls to early this afternoon, so I'll quilt this later on this evening. I've been itching to hang it up in my kitchen, so cute! I'm on a finishing kick so I think the next project I'll start on is the scrappy pinapple quilt I started ages ago.

Also wanted to show off my cute little dimestore sewing machine tea pot that I picked up the other day at Goodwill. I don't think it's worthing more than the 89 cents I paid for it, but it does look awfully cute doesn't it next to my poinsetta?

Believe it or not I even found this gorgeous vintage tablecloth at Goodwill for a dollar. It has a few small stains that were sucessfully removed with a little spray and wash. I'm using it as a valance in the kitchen currently, so cute!

Salt Dough Christmas Ornaments

2010-12-06T16:32:00.000-08:00

Seems like sewing is always on the back burner to something more important these days. The Husband is working longer hours these days to help with the expenses of Christmas, while my days are filled with some combination of cooking, cleaning, spending time with the children or babysitting. Where do the days go?

I'm currently 18 weeks pregnant...that's 4 and 1/2 months already! I can hardly believe how fast it's going. I've been feeling the baby move for a few weeks now and we had an ultrasound last Friday to find out the sex - no luck yet though! Baby is too small for the Doctor yet to be sure. I have another appointment for an ultrasound to determine the sex two days before Chistmas. *Crossing Fingers* I hope we will be able to tell then! It would be nice to begin shopping for baby and take advantage of the holiday sales.

I did manage to squeeze in some crafting time with the girls making salt dough ornaments to hang on the tree. We made these a few weeks ago, I've just got to find the time to seal them before Christmas! Lol* I thought they would make nice gifts for the Grandparents and we won't leave out teachers too. I got the recipe here.

These were the beautiful results from my 4 year old...

Here are my 8 year old's treasures -

The girls really enjoyed making these. I'm so glad we did this together! I made a few bowl fillers just for Mommy which I'll have to share with you in my next post. :)

45 Halloween Treat Bags

2010-10-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

45 Halloween treat bags, done and done. :) With two kids in school, I've got twice the treats to prepare.

Working on my lil' wooly sheep applique. It's so cute! I can't wait to see it all together...

Mini Bow Tie Finish

2010-10-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

I've posted pictures of this before, but I'm happy to say I finally got motivated and finished the binding! Woohoo! Lookee here, two finishes so far for October! Lol*

I love little projects. They are great for decorating and the best part is they go quickly. :) Next I'm finishing up the Wooly Sheep applique kit I bought a few years ago. Everything is cut to applique, just need to put the top together and get cracking! :)

More Compass Progress

2010-10-24T10:51:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure what to call this - medallion? Compass? In any case I love how it's coming along.

There are plenty of imperfections, but I learn so much from these ambitious projects. It's easy to get in over my head, I must admit! Of course I had toclose up on the one goose that has a little floating wing. Argh! Lol*

Things are starting to go together smoothly, the only major hiccup so far is the center star that I'm not crazy about. I've decided to change those colors. I am thinking I'm going to make the center background pink like the geese but the star itself yellow.

Email Spitting out Spam

2010-10-24T04:54:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I just wanted to warn you, one of my old email addresses was hijacked and is spitting out spam. If you get a link from my quilt_mommy_2001 at yahoo dot com address, please do not open it and delete it immediately. I apologize for the inconvenience this might have caused some of you...I just don't understand why people do these things. I'm contacting Yahoo to see if it can be fixed, and will delete the account as a last resort. Thank you so much for understanding!

2010-10-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Working on this again...

and I'm thinking applique will be my friend. ;) The center star isn't piecing as swiftly and beautifully in reality as it did in my head! I'm even rethinking the colors on that inner part as well. The yellow just doesn't look right to me. I started piecing the purple rings toghether into blocks and they are a little tricky but going well. Luckily those triangles and batik's hide some of my sewing imperfections well.

A Vintage Treasure: Singer Buttonholer

2010-10-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

I am such a sucker for anything old. Combine old and anything sewing related and my heart will sing.

On that note, my Husband and I made one of our frequent visits to the local thrift shop a few days ago. He is usually looking for sports items, or things he can fix up and resell for a few extra bucks. I look for clothes for me, the kids, and things I can use for the house. Once in a while I find an old goodie, that may have been leftover from an estate sale, or maybe inherited by someone who has no use for it. Like this old buttonholer...

I was tickled to find this little treasure. It's in the original case, all the pieces are present, and it even comes with a manual. The booklet is dated 1949 - within a few decades of my featherweight's birthday. Leading me to believe this could possibly be an attatchment I could use with my featherweight. Yay! If not I have a 1950's Singer in a table that it should work with. It will be like Christmas playing around with it though. How exciting!

It makes me think of the woman (or Man I suppose!) who purchased this when it was new. I love thinking about who might have owned it and what they wanted to make with it. How fun. :)

The best part of thrift store treasures? This purchase was a whopping, $1.50. I couldn't pass it up. :)