tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30289884074536993572024-03-13T07:13:57.036-07:00Busy Quilting MamaBusy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-88261102583249191772014-06-30T04:21:00.001-07:002014-06-30T04:21:01.558-07:00My Clara Dress
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m0GPGhIeSdA/U7FCt7a6zpI/AAAAAAAAAlw/loPMJAFiJfo/s2048/Photo%25252020140630065725.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m0GPGhIeSdA/U7FCt7a6zpI/AAAAAAAAAlw/loPMJAFiJfo/s500/Photo%25252020140630065725.jpg" id="blogsy-1404127009573.7385" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">This is where it all began. I'm sure many of you can relate. Find something cute on Pinterest and then just have to make it! I am not a garment sewer, I am not a garments sewer, ... This is what I told myself, but the obsession had begun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">I finally talked myself into making this dress a few weeks ago. If I can make dresses for the little one, I can do it for myself, right? Pattern and fabric were purchased, now for the hard part, actually sewing it. Bonus: this pattern comes with a step by step video tutorial to show how to put the whole thing together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Pattern cutting is easy and when there are straight lines involved, I cheat and use my rotary cutter. The bodice is the first piece to be constructed. No real problems here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Y1Q4QkydpNU/U7FDjpzMIOI/AAAAAAAAAmM/LT9mNwN-jTM/s2048/Photo%25252020140630070043.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Y1Q4QkydpNU/U7FDjpzMIOI/AAAAAAAAAmM/LT9mNwN-jTM/s500/Photo%25252020140630070043.jpg" id="blogsy-1404127009631.766" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Then it comes to this point, the dreaded sleeves. Play dreaded tune here. I swear sleeves are the bane of my sewing existence. Maybe I am just too particular, maybe I am not supposed to do curved seams, or maybe I just need practice? The sleeves took me a few hours just to get the first one on. Once I get the sleeves on the rest of the dress just kind of comes together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">This dress has elastic in the waistband. The only other part I had any trouble with was getting the elastic stretched enough while sewing it in. The first attempt was not stretchy enough. Enter Jack, the seam ripper. This particlar seam was a doosy because I used a tricot stitch, a zig zag with three stiches per zig. One hour later, I had the elastic removed, stretched more, and resewn. Wow, much better.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> The Clara Dress is a challenging pattern made easier with the video tutorial to accompany it. Other than the sleeves, I had no troubles. The outcome is a super cute dress. I am already shopping for more fabric so I can make another. The second is always easier than the first.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-q5Y9hhtC3nM/U7FC3pyBvPI/AAAAAAAAAl4/u_VPauZnnHM/s2048/Photo%25252020140630065725.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-q5Y9hhtC3nM/U7FC3pyBvPI/AAAAAAAAAl4/u_VPauZnnHM/s500/Photo%25252020140630065725.jpg" id="blogsy-1404127009569.3325" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Heather</div>
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<p> </p>
<div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-53894748196431806422014-06-01T18:04:00.001-07:002014-06-01T18:04:12.098-07:00Fireworks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xz3Xf3oXG74/U4vCiZkiVAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Ah2uest63hw/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xz3Xf3oXG74/U4vCiZkiVAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Ah2uest63hw/s500/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670838994.599" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p> It must be the 6 year old's time for handmade goodies. She had never helped me pick out the pattern or fabrics for one of her own quilts. I finally decided that it was time for this to happen. After tour through my extensive pattern stash, we chose the Fireworks pattern by Thimble Blossoms.</p><p>That decided, it was time to make a trip to my favorite quilt store, The Quilt Patch. Amazingly, this was a quick trip. She immediately fell in love with the Daydreams line by Kate Spain. In and out in less than 30 minutes, I think this is a record for me!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ov4E5DPweCM/U4vBDwKXmSI/AAAAAAAAAko/UUS8M6wK0PI/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ov4E5DPweCM/U4vBDwKXmSI/AAAAAAAAAko/UUS8M6wK0PI/s500/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670839043.4307" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div><p>I was so excited to start this project that it was allowed to jump to the front of the project line. This line gets longer everyday. There are several goodies waiting that will appear on here before too long. So off to the cutting table for me. This is not my favorite part of the process, but handling beautiful fabrics makes me so happy. Aren't they such pretty piles of fabrics?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2vVCqdDf1t0/U4vBTy_eh9I/AAAAAAAAAkw/ZgnY4Jt4QS0/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2vVCqdDf1t0/U4vBTy_eh9I/AAAAAAAAAkw/ZgnY4Jt4QS0/s500/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670839019.9124" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p>The blocks for this quilt took quite a bit of time to put together because there are many pieces in each. They are not hard to put together acurately, just time consuming. The only beef I had with this project is all of the waste. I don't know about you, but I hate wasting good fabric.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vid9uewc-CA/U4vBhk46K5I/AAAAAAAAAk4/bGHzO8uP24Y/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vid9uewc-CA/U4vBhk46K5I/AAAAAAAAAk4/bGHzO8uP24Y/s500/Photo%25252020140601200829.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670839018.0542" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p>All of the flying geese pieces are made with a rectangle and two squares. This means that there are four triangle pieces of waste. My solution to this was to draw two sewing lines on each square making the flying geese units and two half square triangle units at the same time. I will share some of my projects using these left overs soon.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NuIPFiFzIDY/U4vCHiEcVbI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/4SdD0u9c50E/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200759.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NuIPFiFzIDY/U4vCHiEcVbI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/4SdD0u9c50E/s500/Photo%25252020140601200759.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670838975.2212" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">This is only part of the pile of extra half square triangles I had left over!</div><p>My daughter laid this quilt out with very little input from me. Have you ever tried to do this with a 6 year old? It can get a little sticky, but she is my last and I have learned a little bit about working with little people on this type of project. She did a great job and it turned out fabulous! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VFFXfxfoWMk/U4vCTwx1nQI/AAAAAAAAAlY/IpKuTiI4CRA/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VFFXfxfoWMk/U4vCTwx1nQI/AAAAAAAAAlY/IpKuTiI4CRA/s500/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670839004.326" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> Here it is getting quilted with swirls as requested.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xz3Xf3oXG74/U4vCiZkiVAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Ah2uest63hw/s2048/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xz3Xf3oXG74/U4vCiZkiVAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Ah2uest63hw/s500/Photo%25252020140601200727.jpg" id="blogsy-1401670839033.446" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p>All in all, this is a great project that looks amazing.</p><p>Happy Sewing</p><p>Heather</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-4770783136749879402014-05-25T11:05:00.001-07:002014-05-25T11:05:38.249-07:00Scrappy Cargo Duffle<p>It all started when a friend of mine sent me a picture of her fabric she had just received in the mail. It was the Giraffe Crossing line from Riley Blake. My youngest daughter is obsessed with all thing giraffe, so I told my friend that someone here would love that fabric. This friend graciously gifted me the left overs from her quilt project. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YKzKefaCBRg/U3_bCYdd7BI/AAAAAAAAAj4/E-kV1Bf9gUs/s2048/Photo%25252020140523193243.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YKzKefaCBRg/U3_bCYdd7BI/AAAAAAAAAj4/E-kV1Bf9gUs/s500/Photo%25252020140523193243.jpg" id="blogsy-1401040934823.351" class="alignnone" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> </div><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Then the real thinking started, the steam was really rolling. Part of that was from the thinking and some was from negotiating with the 5 year old. My daughter wanted a quilt, but there was clearly not enough fabric for a quilt. We were preparing to go to Florida for a visit with family. Guess who had to pack in a reusable Disney shopping bag? Unbelievable, I know! This was the final push to find a bag pattern that could be put together with the amazingly cute scraps.</span></p><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">I had already scoped out the bag from Anna over at <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com" target="_self" title="Noodlehead">Noodlehead</a>. She had recently shown a Cargo Duffle, that I knew would work out great for someone in this house. A girl can NEVER have too many bags. Having made several of her patterns, I knew this would go together smoothly!</span><br></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9Fu7UcaQZG0/U3_bQNrgEsI/AAAAAAAAAkA/imXJ1zZwfms/s2048/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9Fu7UcaQZG0/U3_bQNrgEsI/AAAAAAAAAkA/imXJ1zZwfms/s500/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" id="blogsy-1401040934861.3342" class="alignnone" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Everything went wonderfully, including the zipper! The zipper had me a little worried because I had never used a metal zipper before. Wasn't sure how it would work in my machine, but all went smoothly. Well, except for that one part when I sewed the zipper pull into the seam. My fault, I know... </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8cKYYHwZ4wc/U3_bc-dujvI/AAAAAAAAAkI/CLU-nq4nXRg/s2048/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8cKYYHwZ4wc/U3_bc-dujvI/AAAAAAAAAkI/CLU-nq4nXRg/s500/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" id="blogsy-1401040934840.3347" class="alignnone" width="500" height="374" alt=""></a></div><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The interior of the bag is wonderful because there are no raw edges left exposed. Unlike most bags I have sewn, this one does not make the lining separately. It is quilted together and then each piece is handled as a unit. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3gbkLPhIYC0/U3_bqDPikjI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/kgX-sS3oEBk/s2048/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3gbkLPhIYC0/U3_bqDPikjI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/kgX-sS3oEBk/s500/Photo%25252020140523193232.jpg" id="blogsy-1401040934891.1348" class="alignnone" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">I would reccomend this to anyone that has a little bag making experience. Fun, fast and straight forward!</span></p><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"><br></span></p><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Happy Sewing</span></p><p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Heather</span></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-65798593406198841992014-05-21T13:59:00.001-07:002014-05-21T13:59:18.871-07:00Family Reunion Dress<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My youngest daughter (I have 4) is going to be 6 later this month. Realizing that she is growing up WAY too fast, I thought I should make her as many dresses as I can before she decides my homemade stuff is just not for her. In all fairness, my college girls still like the bags and pj pants I make for them.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Shopping for dress patterns is fun but overwhelming at times. There are so many adorable options for girls dresses. After many hours looking through picture after picture of cute girls in fabulous dresses I chose a few patterns by Oliver & S...The Family Reunion Dress and The Ice Cream Dress.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The Family Reunion Dress is the first one that I decided to tackle. I am not usually a garment sewer, but I like to make simple dresses for my girls. Sleeves intimidate me. As a quilter, I don't sew curved seams, they are scary!</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Being slightly afraid, I looked for a sew along. I found just the spot at <a href="http://www.lolapinkfabrics.com/blog/family-reunion-dress-sew-along-day-5/" target="_self" title="Lola Pink Fabrics">lolapinkfabrics.com</a>. Her thorough directions and excellent pictures helped me know if I was doing it right. The directions that came with the pattern were also wonderful. There wasn't one step that I didn't understand. By nature, I am good with directions, but in a foreign area like garment construction good directions are a must! Even the sleeves went smoothly, much to my relief.<a href="http://www.lolapinkfabrics.com/blog/family-reunion-dress-sew-along-day-5/" target="_self" title="Lola Pink Fabrics"></a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9NrXxwHZ_WY/U30TGedS7OI/AAAAAAAAAjk/HRL32D7XhLY/s2048/Photo%25252020140521165406.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9NrXxwHZ_WY/U30TGedS7OI/AAAAAAAAAjk/HRL32D7XhLY/s500/Photo%25252020140521165406.jpg" id="blogsy-1400705937921.12" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.3em;">The dress turned out wonderful! The pin tucks in the front and back add interest to the front of the dress. Adding six lines of stitching at the hem adds a nice touch to the bottom of the dress and makes it more stable, so it shouldn't turn up in the wash. I am so pleased with how it looks and even how it feels. My daughter couldn't be happier. She insisted that she felt like a princess. Every girl should feel like that sometimes.</span><br></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kvqtOV5XU5Y/U30S4-BSj5I/AAAAAAAAAjc/jUTz5nYutoA/s2048/Photo%25252020140521165234.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kvqtOV5XU5Y/U30S4-BSj5I/AAAAAAAAAjc/jUTz5nYutoA/s500/Photo%25252020140521165234.jpg" id="blogsy-1400705937902.8394" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div><p><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.3em;"><br></span></p><p><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.3em;">I can't wait to try the Ice Cream Dress.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.3em;">Happy Sewing</span><br></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Heather</span></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-16542670101085195832013-05-27T19:08:00.001-07:002013-05-27T19:08:50.964-07:00T-Shirt Quilt<p> Whew, what a weekend! My daughter graduated on Sunday and her party was directly after. In the few minutes before her party I made her pose with her quilt. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YtADHDAE-6E/UaQRaIHWQJI/AAAAAAAAAiE/e2Xj0oeS8Z0/s2048/Photo%252520May%25252026%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YtADHDAE-6E/UaQRaIHWQJI/AAAAAAAAAiE/e2Xj0oeS8Z0/s500/Photo%252520May%25252026%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369706928099.928" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p> She has been very active in sports and is a smarty pants as well! I put this quilt together in March and took it to be quilted by a long arm quilter. This is only the second quilt that I have allowed someone else to quilt. Both experiences were great! </p>
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<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Go figure, she picked running horses.</span> She is a horse nut, loves all animals, and is going to college in the fall to begin studies for Pre-Veterinary medicine.</p>
<p> You may have noticed that most of the shirts are green, so why orange and black for the sashing and backing? Well, she didn't want black like her sister, so we decided to use her college colors, orange and black. Watch out University of Findlay, here she comes.</p>
<p>T-shirt quilts are not difficult to piece, especially this pattern. Getting the cornerstones to match up in the right place is the hardest part. One tip for sewing these together is to always sew with the t-shirt piece up. I am not sure why this works so much better, but if the t-shirt side is down, the pieces shift and bunch.</p>
<p>If you decide to make one of these, the worst part is fusing the interfacing to the backs of the shirts. Making this quilt, I think I counted to 10 Mississippi at least a hundred times. I was thinking that a heat press might work to speed this up. Anyone tried this? Someone offered to let me use theirs. Wonder if the interfacing would hold up?</p>
<p>Things should slow down for me in the next week or two with the last track meet tomorrow and only 3 more weeks of school left before our summer vacation. I am dreaming about the hours I will be able to sew. There are only about a dozen projects I have lined up in my mind to make next. Looking forward to turning on the machine this week! </p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-59650238980718516042013-05-05T13:28:00.001-07:002013-05-05T13:28:23.431-07:00The Weekender Bag<p> Since I have finished the baby quilts, with a little time to spare, I was able to work on a project I have been dying to get started! While working on the baby quilts I began assembling the supplies necessary to put together a Weekender Bay (Amy Butler). These bags have been all over blogland and I really wanted one. My goal was to finish mine before my husband and I go away for our annual Anniversary trip. Here we are over a month ahead of time and it is finished.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iRwLgEkjQFI/UYbAU0WAoCI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/62_kbDNO3UI/s2048/Photo%252520May%2525205%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iRwLgEkjQFI/UYbAU0WAoCI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/62_kbDNO3UI/s500/Photo%252520May%2525205%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367785699663.5044" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="373"></a></div>
<p> Isn't it fabulous? I love it. There is enough interfacing in this bag to carry two bowling balls on our trip, but I think I will just pack clothes instead. They are a little more practical. </p>
<p>This pattern by Amy Butler was challenging, but if the directions are followed, the bag will turn out great. I am used to sewing quilted bags with cotton batting on the insides. The idea of using not one, but two types of interfacing was strange. Despite this, I followed the suggestions and couldn't be happier with the way the bag turned out. I may even have to use this double interfacing concept on some of my other bags, if I want them to stand on their own.</p>
<p>While assembling the bag, the directions said to use binder clips to hold the pieces together while sewing. Go figure, the teacher has all of her binder clips at school and couldn't possibly wait until Monday to finish the bag, so I just used some super heavy duty pins I used to use when I stretched quilts on a frame. They worked fine, but if I ever make this bag again, I would like to try the binder clips. It may be just a smidge easier. </p>
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<p> This is my first attempt at pattern matching. One side turned out great, the other looks good, but not quite a match. I need to choose an easier point in the pattern to match, like I did on the first side. Lesson learned.</p>
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<p> Don't you just love happy accidents? I did not plan for these zipper panels to line up like this and create a snake like pattern, but isn't it cool? Pretty sure I couldn't make that happen again in a million years.</p>
<p>If you would like to make this pattern, don't be afraid, just read the directions carefully and be prepared to spend almost a whole day cutting out the pieces. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g5D_JjR2gEg/UYbA4D6vGZI/AAAAAAAAAho/fQaeKKNt3Zc/s2048/Photo%252520May%2525205%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g5D_JjR2gEg/UYbA4D6vGZI/AAAAAAAAAho/fQaeKKNt3Zc/s500/Photo%252520May%2525205%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525204%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367785699706.4338" class="alignnone" width="500" height="373" alt=""></a></div>
<p> Notice how the bag I made in Florida coordinates with my new Weekender bag? I have plans for one more medium sized bag to go with these two. Both of these bags are made out of fabrics from the Juggling Summer line from Moda. There will more than likely be enough scraps for a few other travel items to go along with the set. Now that I have matching luggage maybe I will have to travel more often!</p>
<p>Now I need to get cracking on the Mother's Day gifts I have planned for next Sunday. Off to the machine.</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-83677530110508811122013-05-01T18:54:00.001-07:002013-05-01T18:54:12.347-07:00My Winter With The Lorax<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> </div>
<p> There are going to be three new bundles of joy entering our family this spring. My brother and his wife, my niece and one of my nephews are all expecting fairly soon. This means that I have spent the winter sewing up a storm for these new arrivals. I do love picking out and making baby quilts. While obsessively seeking the perfect projects for these babies, I found an awesome quilt kit for The Lorax fabrics by Robert Kaufman. This kit included a panel that had illustrations from the book. Perfect! One quilt picked out. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-k9y4D8sPWtk/UYHGx8efMnI/AAAAAAAAAgo/8slAD-xC6zA/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-k9y4D8sPWtk/UYHGx8efMnI/AAAAAAAAAgo/8slAD-xC6zA/s500/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367459652103.6973" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p> This is from a free pattern available from Kaufman fabrics, called I Speak For the Trees. I had a few problems with the pattern for this quilt. One of the measurements is incorrect, all of the pieces that are cut 13 1/2" should actually be 13" cuts instead. This was an easy fix. The other error is that the panel blocks and the 25 patch blocks wind up being 1/4" different in size. This was easy to fix also, but would have been easier if they were just cut the correct size from the beginning. So if you are making this quilt, check your block size. You may have to trim an 1/8" off of each side of your blocks. Despite the pattern troubles, I love how this quilt turned out. So much so that I made a second one!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LuJ6FTvuxeY/UYHG72HOivI/AAAAAAAAAgw/u4ukN-_5x1Y/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LuJ6FTvuxeY/UYHG72HOivI/AAAAAAAAAgw/u4ukN-_5x1Y/s500/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367459652066.815" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p>This second quilt from the I Speak for the Trees pattern came together much smoother than the first. Knowing what to change before cutting made it so much easier. My brother and his wife should have this quilt, in New York, by the time this is posted. </p>
<p>For the last baby, I happened upon yet another Lorax quilt kit called The Need for Thneeds. This pattern was excellent and the quilt top came together nicely. I was a little nervous about getting the knitting thneeds all lined up and centered all the way across the top. No need to worry, they lined up perfectly (well as close to perfect as I get).</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y84WLrpN6-0/UYHHGEeNFmI/AAAAAAAAAg4/N_fu8SKtpm0/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y84WLrpN6-0/UYHHGEeNFmI/AAAAAAAAAg4/N_fu8SKtpm0/s500/Photo%252520Apr%25252027%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525202%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367459652059.0757" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p> After making all of the Lorax quilts, I have so many scraps! I sure am glad that my two little girls love The Lorax and want several things made from these scraps! Speaking of my little girls, I want to say thank you to them and my husband for taking the time to hold up my quilts on the back deck for these pictures!</p>
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<p>There are all of my helpers! </p>
<p> The baby quilts are finished. Now to get on that t-shirt quilt...or maybe something for myself?</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-21202818125725665012013-04-14T17:07:00.001-07:002013-04-14T17:07:31.626-07:00A Little Early<p> Some might say these are a little late, I just say they are really early! I made Halloween placemats this fall. The fabrics were just too cute to pass up. After the placemats were finished, I had quite a few scraps left. Looking at the pile of Halloween goodness, I saw a table topper. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PDq5H8XKre8/UWtElXxwg4I/AAAAAAAAAgM/ZLTgKFm8X_o/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A07%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PDq5H8XKre8/UWtElXxwg4I/AAAAAAAAAgM/ZLTgKFm8X_o/s500/Photo%252520Apr%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A07%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365984451419.5752" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="373"></a></div>
<p>Isn't it lovely? I used this pattern to make table toppers last spring. Have you ever skimmed through the directions on a pattern you have made before. All the while, thinking "Oh yes, I remember how this goes?" This is the feeling I got when reading the directions. Well, after piecing the topper, I couldn't quite put my finger on what was wrong.</p>
<p>This pattern will make two table toppers with just a little extra main fabric (solid black) and backing fabric, so I always make two. I finally figured out what went wrong when I put the second one together. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lhoR1MC7beg/UWtEvkDJrLI/AAAAAAAAAgU/Eaa-bFyhztk/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lhoR1MC7beg/UWtEvkDJrLI/AAAAAAAAAgU/Eaa-bFyhztk/s500/Photo%252520Apr%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365984451431.1018" class="alignnone" width="500" height="373" alt=""></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"> Notice on this table topper that the black fabric with the eyes makes a really nifty point that appears to be behind the colored triangles? I sewed these in the wrong direction on the first one. The first one still looks cool, so I decided to keep it that way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">My 9 year old will be making Halloween placemats that coordinate with these table toppers, so I think I will keep one of these for her when she gets older. I know that is a long time from now, but it will be here before know it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Off to sew something! Maybe I should finish the last baby quilt or should I work on the very bright spring midi bag that is calling my name? Decisions, decisions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Heather</div>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-50266042368816297742013-04-07T03:51:00.001-07:002013-04-07T03:51:12.741-07:00Vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_rq1sLHLggg/UWFPFT22KII/AAAAAAAAAfk/goydN1mw-tU/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_rq1sLHLggg/UWFPFT22KII/AAAAAAAAAfk/goydN1mw-tU/s500/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365331871575.8518" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
<p>I spent this last week in sunny Florida with my family. My Mother-in-Law is a quilter also! This yearly trip always includes a day trip to some local quilt stores. This year while shopping my Mother-in-law spotted an adorable pattern for a little bag called This and That. I am a sucker for bag patterns, so I bought the pattern and the supplies to make it. </p>
<p>She was nice enough to share her sewing machine with me, since she was making a baby quilt. I spent two days of break using the down time between activities to put together some This and That bags. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NT47JpsFfOI/UWFPRmTqBkI/AAAAAAAAAfs/wK1ey1Yp0SY/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NT47JpsFfOI/UWFPRmTqBkI/AAAAAAAAAfs/wK1ey1Yp0SY/s500/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365331871601.8955" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
<p>While my mother-in-law pressed or cut, I sewed. It worked out well and I put together four bags. Originally, I intended for three bright colored bags to be for my 17 year old, 9 year old, and me. Somewhere along the way I realized that I forgot the 4 year old. How could I? So I gave her mine and made one for myself with Moda's Juggling Summer fabrics. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R4RFha3_xaY/UWFPbcl4KjI/AAAAAAAAAf0/Rv1tx8LXL6Q/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R4RFha3_xaY/UWFPbcl4KjI/AAAAAAAAAf0/Rv1tx8LXL6Q/s500/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365331871603.343" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p>These bags were super fast and easy! I made all of these in two days while sharing a machine and going out to do other things! No need to fear the zippers on these, they were easy to add and look great.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_oG2Kl-oJVs/UWFPnJkujdI/AAAAAAAAAf8/i9A6Kjo8V04/s2048/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_oG2Kl-oJVs/UWFPnJkujdI/AAAAAAAAAf8/i9A6Kjo8V04/s500/Photo%252520Apr%2525202%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1365331871531.409" class="alignnone" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div>
<p>This pattern calls for one charm pack and one fat quarter. For these three brightly colored bags, I used one charm pack and three fat quarters. This would be a great project to use up some scraps, which I have in abundance of around here!</p>
<p>Off to get ready for the work week and sew a little something!</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-27202150069490222422013-03-16T09:50:00.001-07:002013-03-16T11:47:25.059-07:00Triple Zippered Pouch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Xj8MR_T1Dv4/UUSie5JRl8I/AAAAAAAAAfE/vt8KwHGo_7M/s2048/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A39%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignnone" height="373" id="blogsy-1363452617766.1362" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Xj8MR_T1Dv4/UUSie5JRl8I/AAAAAAAAAfE/vt8KwHGo_7M/s500/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A39%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
There are baby quilt and t-shirt quilts flying all over this house. With three babies coming this late spring/early summer and my second daughter graduating in May, my quilt obligations are keeping my hopping and my work space a mess! Oh well, I am having a blast putting all of these quilts together. Since none of these quilts are quite finished, I thought I would share one of my side projects. A triple zippered pouch for each of my little girls seemed like the perfect project to use up The Lorax scraps from all of these baby quilts whizzing around my sewing spaces.<br />
If any of you are like me, a little crazy and a lot busy, you will understand that I drool over all of these amazing projects we see in the billion other blogs that we read. The drooling goes on for a long time because time doesn't allow me to make every project I see right away. Anywho, on to the project.<br />
I got the tutorial from <a href="http://aquilterstable.blogspot.com/2012/08/triple-zip-pouch-tutorial.html" target="_blank" title="Triple Zip Pouch">here</a>. A triple zip along at A Quilters Table blog. I am not afraid of zippers, unlike my mother and so many other sewers I meet. In the past, I have been a little leary, but my experiences have taught me that it doesn't take anything more than a seam ripper to fix any mistakes that are made.<br />
This time I made a mistake that couldn't be fixed with a seam ripper. I cut the pieces for my first bag an inch too short. Oh well, just make the bag an inch smaller. Each of the girls had a different favorite Lorax print, so we chose scrap pieces to coordinate with their preferences.<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l3wFImQLGNo/UUSiovsYOcI/AAAAAAAAAfM/1IBcCIyapeM/s2048/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A38%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignnone" height="373" id="blogsy-1363452617741.4902" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l3wFImQLGNo/UUSiovsYOcI/AAAAAAAAAfM/1IBcCIyapeM/s500/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A38%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Here is the bag that I cut too small. My third daughter loves the orange fabric with the knitting and Lorax. She uses this pouch to carry her money, which she is very good with by the way.</div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-si7tfhW7PMc/UUSix0FeSiI/AAAAAAAAAfU/EPp9dbxMw5A/s2048/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignnone" height="373" id="blogsy-1363452617778.928" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-si7tfhW7PMc/UUSix0FeSiI/AAAAAAAAAfU/EPp9dbxMw5A/s500/Photo%252520Mar%25252016%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252012%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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This is the bag with the correct dimensions. This is for my youngest daughter, who has already used it for many things. The most common use has been to carry her crayons. She likes to put the broken ones in the front pouch. </div>
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Both of these bags look great and the tutorial was easy to follow. Thank you Debbie for the great tutorial!</div>
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After these three baby quilts are finished, I am thinking maybe fabric baskets with the rest of the scraps. I have my eye on a divided basket from Noodlehead (Anna).</div>
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Off to sew something for National Quilting Day!</div>
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Heather</div>
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Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-17930661664893086832013-03-09T05:08:00.001-08:002013-03-09T05:08:46.799-08:00Civil War Reproduction Quilt<p>I have not been blogging, but I have been sewing like a crazy woman! My Civil War reproduction quilt has been on my UFO list for what seems like forever. It is now finished and on my bed.</p>
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<p> This quilt has been pulled out several times to finish. On one of my recent snow days, I decided it was time to finish it. When it was spread out on the floor, I discovered that there was much less to finish than I reallized. Only the two navy borders that go all the way around the outsides needed to be quilted. Taking a few minutes to decide on what to quilt, I came to the conclusion that it needed some straight line quilting.</p>
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<p>After finishing the quilting, I realized that this quilt has hung in my bedroom on the quilt rack, mostly finished for at least 5 years. How silly is this?</p>
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<p>The centers of the star blocks have this quilting in them. I finished this part shortly after my first FMQ class. This is one of the things that I would like to get better at. </p>
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<p> Flying geese abound in this quilt, both in the star blocks and one of the borders. </p>
<p>Back to the machine!</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-1288378763937481972013-02-08T04:55:00.001-08:002013-02-08T04:55:16.634-08:00My New Favorite Cup<p>Things have been crazy here, but what's new? Even though they have been crazy, I have been sewing up a storm! </p>
<p>One of the things that I was excited about from quilt retreat this year was a Quilt in a Cup mini lesson taught by the host. I didn't finish this at the retreat, but quickly put it together after returning home. </p>
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<p> Cute, isn't it? The fabrics that I used for this cup were scraps from the quilt I assemble at retreat (more on that later). I made it in a log cabin pattern, since that is one of my favorites. This came together in about an hour, cutting, sewing, and assembly. </p>
<p> </p>
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<p> Inside the cup, when you open it up, there is a paper pattern, which I used to make this the right shape. First, I cut out a piece of flannel with the pattern. </p>
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<p> I know it doesn't match, but no one will know, right? </p>
<p>Once your foundation is cut out, all you need to do is use fabrics to fill up the pattern. I sewed my fabrics right down to the flannel, as you can see the seam lines on this piece. The instructions call for you to glue the piece in a circular form, but I left mine unglued, so I can store it easier when I decide to change it up.</p>
<p>You can find this cup at your local quilt store or <a href="http://quiltinacup.com/quiltcup.html" target="_self" title="Quilt in a Cup">here</a>. This is a great idea for any quilter. Now I know which cup is mine!<a href="http://quiltinacup.com/quiltcup.html" target="_self" title="here"></a></p>
<p>One unfortunate side effect of this cup is that the size of scraps I keep has now changed. Not that long ago, I decided that scraps under 2 inches were meant for the kids to make craft projects with. I used 1 1/2" pieces on this cup. The scrap fabrics are already threatening to take over my house... Now they may take over the WORLD!</p>
<p>Off to sew some more!</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-66034101515485262732013-01-26T12:56:00.001-08:002013-01-26T12:56:12.445-08:00The Snake River Log Cabin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UK9Kgmv7ZB4/UQRCG9m6hdI/AAAAAAAAAdA/DXtxh7z6eto/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%25252024%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525207%25253A33%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UK9Kgmv7ZB4/UQRCG9m6hdI/AAAAAAAAAdA/DXtxh7z6eto/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252024%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525207%25253A33%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1359233768432.6602" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<p> I was working like a crazy lady trying to get my Snake River Log Cabin quilt finished before quilt retreat. Unfortunately, I was so close, yet so far. I can hardly contain my excitement, because one and a half years of sewing is finished and fabulous!</p>
<p>This quilt comes with a little story. My husband and I decided to go away for a long weekend on our 10 year Anniversary. The destination was chosen, Amish Country Ohio. I could hardly contain my excitement. Four days away from the children to be with my husband. This meant eating a meal without having to cut someone else's up, no evening bath ritual, and all of the other things that kids need you to do for them. Not to mention there were going to be oodles of quilt stores to visit.</p>
<p>I bought a few projects to make for Christmas gifts and for my kids. I walked into Grandma Fannies Quilt Barn, just outside of town. On the intial walk through, I spotted the Snake River Log Cabin sample. It was amazing and I fell in love. With a 1 year old in the house I hadn't been doing much quilting for a few years, so I didn't let myself buy the fabric kit or the book. There were so many projects that I already owned at home that needed completed. This quilt was a queen sized lifetime commitment. So I left it there at the shop.</p>
<p>We decided the following year that we enjoyed our get away so much that it needed to be repeated. Off we went to Berlin for a long weekend. Throughout the year I had started my obsessive quilting habit again, so I had decided if Grandma Fannie's still had the kit for the log cabin, it was coming home with me. </p>
<p>I walked into the store, made several rounds, without seeing the quilt or the kit anywhere. I was starting to get a little anxious. This quilt haunted my dreams. I had to have it. So in desperation, I asked the clerk on duty. She told me she thought it was upstairs with the finished quilts. I raced upstairs to find the sample and a few of the fabric packets. Maybe no one else was ready to undertake this queen sized workhorse.</p>
<p>About a month after our trip, I decided to cut it up and get started. My first moment of concern was when I opened a 3+ yard piece of fabric that needed to be cut into 1 1/2" squares. Oh my! The directions were read and many many small pieces were cut. No strip piecing here. </p>
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<p> So I pieced and I pieced and I pieced some more. I had to stop and make a t-shirt quilt for my oldest daughter's graduation present. There were also Christmas presents to be made.</p>
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<p> Finally I had all 64 blocks finished for the main section of the quilt. But wait, there was a pieced border to be made. Back to piecing.</p>
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<p> Here is the border I was talking about. </p>
<p>The quilt is finished! The quilt is finished! </p>
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<p> This is not the greatest photo, but the darks are all chocolate browns, the lights are all cream colors and the small square that travels around the quilt is a lovely burgundy. I do like how you can see right through the quilt.</p>
<p>This quilt took me a lot of time to put together, but careful piecing and cutting left me with a quilt that came together as a finished piece so well, without puckers or any other defects. </p>
<p>I can not wait to get this quilted and on my bed! </p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-90713857179479215452013-01-20T13:27:00.001-08:002013-01-20T13:27:07.649-08:00Retreat Weekend<p>This weekend was retreat weekend! I look forward to this weekend all year. To make things even better, one of my friends was able to go along with me. Now, I am already anticipating next years retreat. What can be better than a weekend spent in a ballroom with sewing machines humming all around you. The variety of projects is so inspiring.</p>
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<p>Here is my sewing station, which is empty because this was taken at about 7 this morning, before everyone else was up. Coffee, check. Mini Iron, check. Sewing machine functioning, check. I was able to put one project totally together except for trimming and borders. Another project was prompty started and is half completed. </p>
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<p>This is my sewing partner, Diane. I had so much fun with my roomy. See her finished project, isn't it pretty amazing? This was here first retreat, I sure hope she had fun, so she will come back with me next year!</p>
<p>The demonstrations given by the retreat hostess, Kathy, were all focused on scraps. I purchased a Quilt in a Cup, which I hope to get done in the next few weeks. The others were very inspiring, but I try to wait on purchases. I did however stop at The Quilt Patch in Tecumseh, Michigan my FABULOUS local quilt store. My allowance has been spent.</p>
<p>While I did miss my little people and my husband immensely, it was awful fun to sew all weekend with no house cleaning, cooking, bath giving, basketball practice...</p>
<p>It was a fun and productive weekend, but now it is time to get my stuff put back away so I can get back to the normal sewing. The five minutes I can squeeze out between fixing dinner and folding laundry.</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-55353193851437234202013-01-13T18:35:00.001-08:002013-01-13T18:35:58.382-08:00Progress Has Been Made<p>Snake River Log Cabin, Snake River Log Cabin, Snake River Log Cabin... This has been the focus of the last few weeks in my world. Only 10 more blocks to sew. Only 300 more red and cream inch and a half squares to sew together. I think these are the only thought I have been having for the last little while. </p>
<p>My sewing area has been a disaster of piles, chains and boxes (used to organize the pieces). </p>
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<p> Chains on the ironing board.</p>
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<p> Chains to my right.</p>
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<p> Chains to my left.</p>
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<p> Box to my left with yet more chains! Not to mention the life juice, coffee!</p>
<p>Today I was able to put together all of the rows for my quilt and even put two of those rows together! The results are stunning. I can not wait until I get this together. I am starting to remember why I loved this quilt so much that I thought I needed to buy the kit and make it!</p>
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<p> Please excuse the crummy picture, but I was too excited not to share. I am hoping to have this put together in time for show and tell at quilt retreat this weekend. We will see if that happens, since it is the end of the semester and grades need to be finished. </p>
<p>Who needs sleep anyway?</p>
<p>Heather</p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-82310507798377062592013-01-05T16:59:00.001-08:002013-01-05T16:59:29.869-08:00Snake River Log Cabin Blocks This Christmas Vacation I have kept busy with many things. Before we left on the last day of school, I made a list of the activities I wanted to do with my kids. We had fun making moon sand, popping packing bubbles, sledding, Battle Ship and a multitude of other fun stuff! <br/><br/>I have spent many hours with the sewing machine also. Over a year ago I started working on a Snake River Log Cabin quilt. This last week of vacation has seen my sewing machine, ironing board and staging area covered with various pieces of fabric ready to be assembled.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iP1IriEXzbM/UOjMTMViNcI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/oiug0m22_3c/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525205%25252C%2525202013%2525207%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iP1IriEXzbM/UOjMTMViNcI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/oiug0m22_3c/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525205%25252C%2525202013%2525207%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357433970312.5298" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="373"></a></div>
This is a picture of all 64 finished blocks for the center section of this quilt. It may not look like much and there is still so much left to sew, but I am so excited. After some quick mathematical calculations, these two piles are made up of 2816 pieces and 3008 seams (only I would be geeky enough to figure it out)!!!!! <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xEMyObgLhS0/UOjMbbW5f9I/AAAAAAAAAbY/9bw21Lr6CLA/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525205%25252C%2525202013%2525207%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xEMyObgLhS0/UOjMbbW5f9I/AAAAAAAAAbY/9bw21Lr6CLA/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525205%25252C%2525202013%2525207%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357433970278.3384" class="alignnone" width="500" height="373" alt=""></a></div>
This quilt has proven to be a challenge, which is good. The time I have invested in this quilt have prevented me from buying so many other projects to work on. I think I may need to invest in more complicated quilt projects like this one.<br/><br/> I can't wait to start assembling this fabulous quilt!<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-2344588477711467452013-01-04T08:41:00.001-08:002013-01-04T08:41:42.793-08:00Christmas Gift Made by My Husband<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bHhIJ6OiXCw/UOcF0rMCBaI/AAAAAAAAAak/gWM_AUF57ZY/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A22%252520AM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bHhIJ6OiXCw/UOcF0rMCBaI/AAAAAAAAAak/gWM_AUF57ZY/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A22%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357317704438.705" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="373"></a></div>
This year for Christmas, I was finally given a handmade gift! My husband has recently started to turn pens and other things on the lathe that he got for Christmas last year. He decided that I needed a nice seam ripper. In secret, he ordered the kits and turned the handle for me. The kids were recruited to help with the decision on what to make the handle out of. <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--tyjBdpc1WY/UOcF-X2eoNI/AAAAAAAAAas/u5TOto0Km40/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A05%252520AM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--tyjBdpc1WY/UOcF-X2eoNI/AAAAAAAAAas/u5TOto0Km40/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A05%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357317704442.3894" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mDnhNFUkopo/UOcGHmaLFDI/AAAAAAAAAa0/36lElRvUpzA/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A05%252520AM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mDnhNFUkopo/UOcGHmaLFDI/AAAAAAAAAa0/36lElRvUpzA/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A05%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357317704469.9644" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
Do you see something wrong with this block? I should not sew after midnight. This block is proof. My goal was to finish 10 of my crazy lady log cabin blocks (really called Snake River Log Cabin) before bed. Well, I got tired and put the last log on the blocks upside down. Some people might have been upset, not me! What a perfect opportunity to use my new seam ripper that was lovingly created for me by my husband!!<br/><br/>This seam ripper, called Jack, cut right through the stitches. There are only four more seams to rip out and this handy tool should make it a breeze. The point is small and pointed enough to slip under the stitches without distorting the fabric. Very important for a complicated block like this. It also was small and pointed enough not to pull threads out of the fabric, causing an unwanted hole. <br/><br/>Previously when ripping pieces off of these blocks, I have just thrown them away and started with a new piece. I was worried that the pieces were pulled out of shape by the stitch ripping and would throw the whole quilt off. No worries about that now. <br/><br/>I love this gift and love that my husband made it for me because he understands my crazy love for this hobby. Anyone interested in an awesome seam ripper?<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CD-c63iUfNo/UOcGQaFxbMI/AAAAAAAAAa8/cTv7ZsrcAVY/s2048/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A35%252520AM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CD-c63iUfNo/UOcGQaFxbMI/AAAAAAAAAa8/cTv7ZsrcAVY/s500/Photo%252520Jan%2525204%25252C%2525202013%25252011%25253A35%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1357317704413.3652" class="alignnone" width="500" height="373" alt=""></a></div>
Now to fix those blocks and try to get them finished before my break is over!<br/><br/>Happy Sewing<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-27305731262040166332012-12-30T15:53:00.001-08:002012-12-30T15:53:38.951-08:00We Three Kings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tnvn2IAvH8w/UODT_rt_PUI/AAAAAAAAAaU/vJ6wPbceDcE/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252030%25252C%2525202012%2525206%25253A38%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tnvn2IAvH8w/UODT_rt_PUI/AAAAAAAAAaU/vJ6wPbceDcE/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252030%25252C%2525202012%2525206%25253A38%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356911615910.6077" class="alignnone" width="500" height="373" alt=""></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Over Thanksgiving weekend (doesn't that seem like 100 years ago?), I decided to finally open the package on the Three Kings paper piecing project. I bought this kit with the pattern at least 10 years ago. Since then I have been graced with two more daughters. This meant that my passion for sewing and quilting was put on the back burner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Fast forward 10 years. The little people are big enough to play independently for longer periods of time, which means that I am able to dig through all of the projects I bought with the intention of completing. As I scoured the drawer of potential sewing endeavors, this one caught my attention. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">After opening the bag, I dared myself to complete it by Christmas. I spent several nights sewing fabric to paper in blissful denial of all the shopping that I needed to do. Paper foundation piecing makes so many things possible that otherwise would be impossible. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">When I completed the wall hanging, I decided to quilt it with metallic silver thread to match the silver stars in the background. This was a fun project that demanded attention to detail and a sense where the fabric would end up when it was folded out. Some nights this proved more than my brain could handle, so I enlisted the geometrical mind of my husband. Boy, he sure comes in handy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">We Three Kings was the most requested carol this Christmas season. Maybe by next year we can get the hardware hung up to hang this beautiful piece.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Happy Sewing</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">Heather</div>
<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-56354308076238988502012-12-29T17:44:00.001-08:002012-12-29T17:44:45.503-08:00A Day Late and a Dollar Short<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hydhgc20r-Y/UN-cJFut7qI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/-LpuR6bA5A0/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A23%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hydhgc20r-Y/UN-cJFut7qI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/-LpuR6bA5A0/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A23%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356831884591.5266" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
This year I thought it would be great to make placemats for the Christmas season. I also found some super cute placemats at my local quilt store, The Quilt Patch. I worked diligently on these placemats while my 9 year old was awake, in order to hide the awesome American Girl Doll outfit I was making for her. <br/><br/> <br/><br/>I was almost finished, but was blessed with the opportunity to spend some time with my sister, brother-in-law, brother, sister-in-law, parents and niece and nephew. Both my brother and sister live far away, so I put the placemats away and enjoyed the limited time I was able to share with them. <br/><br/> <br/><br/>After all of the great visits with family, I spent the day after Christmas finishing my placemats. All eight are completed and ready to use. <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_dD3X6TL68A/UN-cTJij2lI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/kw4eVbOSu9s/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A22%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_dD3X6TL68A/UN-cTJij2lI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/kw4eVbOSu9s/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A22%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356831884577.5845" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
<br/><br/>For this pattern, called Mix It Up by QP Quilts&Co., The striped units were sewn together first. Then the units are sewn down with the sashing to the batting and the backing. These quilt as you go placemat patterns are addictive! There are so many options and they come together so quickly!<br/><br/> <br/><br/>One of these things is not like the others, one of these things is not like the rest. My 17 year old daughter accompanied me to the quilt store to spend my Birthday money. While I was getting fabric cut, she insisted she wanted to have "The Grinch" in her placemat. Well, I thought, why not? So she has her own placemat, complete with "Grinch" fabric. <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pqa1BONhrjA/UN-ch6gML7I/AAAAAAAAAaE/sctyxmpEOvM/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A22%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pqa1BONhrjA/UN-ch6gML7I/AAAAAAAAAaE/sctyxmpEOvM/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252029%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A22%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356831884575.1167" class="alignnone" width="500" height="374" alt=""></a></div>
<br/><br/>Today I went and spent my Christmas gift certificate at The Quilt Patch. Amazingly, I was a little more than a dollar short on the total. Good thing I saved my allowance before I went in. Wonder if I will start any of these projects over break, or will they have to wait, like all the rest?<br/><br/> <br/><br/>Happy Sewing<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-16583452507853630022012-12-28T16:35:00.001-08:002012-12-28T16:35:33.690-08:00American Girl Outfit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iUqvZGnNtLI/UN46gasuRZI/AAAAAAAAAZU/gLk0eAhfuf8/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252028%25252C%2525202012%2525205%25253A34%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iUqvZGnNtLI/UN46gasuRZI/AAAAAAAAAZU/gLk0eAhfuf8/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252028%25252C%2525202012%2525205%25253A34%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356741330801.4578" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
This outfit for an American Girl Doll started back in November. My husband and I escaped the children for the weekend in Chicago. Since we were there right before Thanksgiving, I thought this would be a great time to get the Christmas shopping started. We bought my 9 year old a pair of cowboy boots at the American Girl Store. <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MhnakSys4bA/UN46sVaa1WI/AAAAAAAAAZc/oGOgUYHvzSk/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%2525202%25252C%2525202012%2525202%25253A48%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MhnakSys4bA/UN46sVaa1WI/AAAAAAAAAZc/oGOgUYHvzSk/s500/Photo%252520Dec%2525202%25252C%2525202012%2525202%25253A48%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356741330744.5369" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
When we returned home, I thought the doll needed something to wear with her boots. I had already made some PJ pants for her doll from this same pattern, so just switched the fabric with some scrap denim I had laying around in a drawer. So the pants were born.<br/><br/>Well, you know the doll would need to have a shirt to wear with her pants, so I decided to make the shirt as well. I dug through my scraps, which is so much fun, to find something to make a shirt out of. My 9 year old's favorite color is purple, so I decided to make it purple. The only trouble I had with this shirt was that the casing for the elastic in the neckline was too narrow to allow the smallest safety pin to pass through. This meant that I had to rip out the stitches at the seams and then sew them back together after I pushed the elastic through.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IM9RWVGRvSM/UN460QiiD6I/AAAAAAAAAZk/4kr02UA_7xo/s1600/Photo%252520Dec%25252028%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A31%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IM9RWVGRvSM/UN460QiiD6I/AAAAAAAAAZk/4kr02UA_7xo/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252028%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A31%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356741330814.557" class="alignnone" width="500" height="374" alt=""></a></div>
After the shirt and the jeans, I thought what the heck, why not make the jacket too? I mean the jean was just a scrap, what did I have to lose? This jacket came out so well that my husband thought I might not let my daughter have it until she was 30. There were a few things that I was unsure about while making, but after repeatedly reading the directions figured out.<br/><br/>This project was easier than expected, but I don't think I will make another one for a few years.<br/><br/>Happy Sewing,<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-59160594775933597192012-12-27T16:45:00.001-08:002012-12-27T16:45:47.290-08:00Vintage Coin Purse This Christmas season has been filled with programs, family get togethers and other wonderful activities. After many nights spent sewing gifts for my family, I have finally been able to finish some of my own sewing projects. The first thing I wanted to make was one of the fabulous coin purses that have been circulating blog land for the last several months. <br/><br/>The last weekend before school was out for break, I was racking my brain for something cool to make for my children's teachers. They are such great people, I wanted to make them something special. After much searching and a little panicking, remembered the coin purse blog hop I looked at a little while back. <br/><br/>My favorite pattern was found on the <a href="http://www.sewwequilt.com/2012/09/because-u-r-our-next-blog-hop.html?m=1" target="_self" title="">Sew We</a><a href="http://www.sewwequilt.com/2012/09/because-u-r-our-next-blog-hop.html?m=1" target="_self" title=""></a> Quilt blog. The pattern was purchased at Craftsy. These coin puses were easy to put together and turned out super cute. Don't you think?<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_kLH5iIHwIQ/UNzrkiqymTI/AAAAAAAAAY8/r9Fyr-vs5xw/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252018%25252C%2525202012%2525206%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_kLH5iIHwIQ/UNzrkiqymTI/AAAAAAAAAY8/r9Fyr-vs5xw/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252018%25252C%2525202012%2525206%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356655545980.381" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
All teachers have to carry their keys at all times, so I thought they could use a key fob too. <br/><br/>Back to today. For Christmas, my awesome 9 year old bought me a cute fat quarter from one of the local quilt stores. When I opened this gift, I decided it would be perfect for my very own change purse. So today I finally put my own together.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1KfbB6_gQrs/UNzrtjex8YI/AAAAAAAAAZE/ovPY0oB8BZo/s2048/Photo%252520Dec%25252027%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A16%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1KfbB6_gQrs/UNzrtjex8YI/AAAAAAAAAZE/ovPY0oB8BZo/s500/Photo%252520Dec%25252027%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A16%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1356655545991.7058" class="alignnone" width="500" height="374" alt=""></a></div>
It turned out just as cool as the rest! <br/><br/>All of the hardware was purchased at Joann Fabrics. The fabric (other than for mine) was left over from other quilting projects.<br/><br/>Hmm... What to sew next?<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/> <br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-51556366923004930122012-10-21T18:29:00.001-07:002012-10-21T18:29:27.136-07:00Have You Ever Been Short of Fabric I had so much fun putting together the Halloween placemats that I thought I could use the Christmas fabric I have in my stash to make another set. So out came my small pile of Christmas fabrics to audition for the part. I found the perfect pieces for the top, then had to scrounge for a piece large enough to make the backings of the placemats. The large piece was left over from a rug that I made several years ago. <br/><br/>First, I cut the backing, just to make sure I had the right amount. I was hoping to make six, since that is how many are in the family, but there was only enough for four. Now, onto the fabrics for the top. I had measured each piece carefully to make sure there was enough yardage to make the project. When I opened each piece, I quickly remembered that I had used these to back stockings, since there was a piece missing in the shape of a stocking. Oh My!! Strategically cutting and careful measuring, allowed me to get enough of the fabric for the centers and thin border. I was hoping to have enough to get the outer border since I had the right number of strips.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1YljixeL6to/UISeQXghOxI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Cknhs-cB_LY/s2048/Photo%252520Oct%25252021%25252C%2525202012%2525209%25253A11%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1YljixeL6to/UISeQXghOxI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Cknhs-cB_LY/s500/Photo%252520Oct%25252021%25252C%2525202012%2525209%25253A11%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1350869161489.343" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
As you can see, there was only enough red wreath fabric to complete three of the placemats. Fortunately, there was a small piece of cream fabric with the same wreaths on it in my stash. This will become the placemat of honor. I am positive my children will fight over this one! <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z8HNBcOOecA/UISecYtZDuI/AAAAAAAAAYk/DAqBhsmLWto/s1530/Photo%252520Oct%25252021%25252C%2525202012%2525209%25253A12%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z8HNBcOOecA/UISecYtZDuI/AAAAAAAAAYk/DAqBhsmLWto/s500/Photo%252520Oct%25252021%25252C%2525202012%2525209%25253A12%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1350869161498.1736" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
So, there was not quite enough fabric to make all of them exactly the same. So what! They are great and will be used often. <br/><br/> What will I sew this week? Not sure yet. Oh, my prep areas are mostly clean, which is a huge improvement over last week!<br/><br/>Happy Sewing<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-48675849383781155662012-10-14T17:04:00.001-07:002012-10-14T17:07:25.538-07:00Tackling My GremlinsThere are gremlins in my sewing spaces. I know it couldn't have been me that made this gigantic mess! Maybe I could blame my children. So this is how my work surfaces get when I am spending almost all of my free time sewing. Who wants to spend time picking up, when creating the projects is so much more fun?<br />
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This is my cutting table. There is an overfull bin of fabrics that I have used on recent projects, perhaps I should sort out those scraps and put them away. The bin is so full the fabrics have seeped across the table to create several more piles of recently used scraps. If I put all of these away, it might be easier to cut projects out and lay them out when I am ready.<br />
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This is my staging area. There are new purchases that are waiting to be put away, projects in progress and other things that find their home here. Do you like my phone? My little one likes to sit with me, play with me or talk to me while I sew.<br />
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Even though this is a part of the creative process, I think we all know what I will be working on this week. This will get picked up this week or I may lose my sanity. <br />
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Happy Sewing<br />
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Heather<br />
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Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-89447032223674287652012-10-09T17:21:00.001-07:002012-10-09T17:21:20.530-07:00Midi Bag Tonight is probably the slowest my week gets. The rest of the week is packed full of musical practice, conferences and a football game. So, I thought I would finish up the Midi bag I started this weekend.<br/><br/>This bag is so easy to put together. I think that is what makes it so fun for a busy mama, like myself to make during the week. After working all day and doing the necessary chores at home, my mind is not always at it's sharpest. That might explain me forgetting to leave an opening for turning in the lining. At least I caught it before I had assembled the whole bag! <br/><br/> <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Oreh5cDCqjA/UHS9udYQRdI/AAAAAAAAAX0/SuDF9_FD6Wo/s1530/Photo%252520Oct%2525209%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Oreh5cDCqjA/UHS9udYQRdI/AAAAAAAAAX0/SuDF9_FD6Wo/s500/Photo%252520Oct%2525209%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1349828295770.1433" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
Don't you just love the purple, gray, turquoise and black together? <br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-B0chUm6V_z8/UHS9j2W921I/AAAAAAAAAXs/vuWSyC69IFk/s1530/Photo%252520Oct%2525209%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-B0chUm6V_z8/UHS9j2W921I/AAAAAAAAAXs/vuWSyC69IFk/s500/Photo%252520Oct%2525209%25252C%2525202012%2525207%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1349828295716.8477" class="alignnone" alt="" width="500" height="669"></a></div>
The lining is my favorite fabric in this bag. It makes a nice light colored lining, which makes it easier to see inside the bag when digging for keys or chapstick.<br/><br/>Now to go dig through some more of my fabrics to find things to go with the other fabrics I purchased. Who am I kidding, it is time to go pack the lunches.<br/><br/>Happy Sewing<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028988407453699357.post-54629213816462913112012-10-01T17:52:00.001-07:002012-10-01T17:52:36.386-07:00Super Simple PlacematsAfter work this evening, I decided to cut out the placemats that I wanted to make. They are quilt as you go, so I thought it might be possible to finish one in the time I had to spare. <br/><br/>Suggestion to self: look at the fabric yardages to try and remember which fabric is for each piece. This would allow me to avoid a panic attack over lack of fabric to finish the project. Lucky for me, I had some solid black left over from the binding of the t-shirt quilt I made this spring. Pretty sure these black fabrics are from the same bolt. I know they are from the same store. If you have ever tried to match solid black fabric, you know what I am talking about.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KQDDpau7Ifs/UGo2gB5A68I/AAAAAAAAAXc/bebXlJeH0NQ/s2048/Photo%252520Oct%2525201%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A32%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KQDDpau7Ifs/UGo2gB5A68I/AAAAAAAAAXc/bebXlJeH0NQ/s500/Photo%252520Oct%2525201%25252C%2525202012%2525208%25253A32%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1349139012020.5198" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
This placemat is so cute that I can't wait to put the other 3 together. The pattern I used is called Framed Seasons and is made by QP Quilts & Co. There is also a video tutorial <a href="http://youtube.com/thequiltpatch" target="_self" title="">here</a>.<br/><br/>Happy Sewing<br/><br/>Heather<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Busy Quilting Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11378489751359856972noreply@blogger.com0