Embroidery Treasures

Take classes; You will learn something!

2009-03-06T08:17:00.000-06:00

There has been so much at the Expo to see; it's just totally amazing! I always love walking around and seeing the different booths as well as taking as many classes as I can. No matter how much I already know, I always can learn more. Some classes I learned tons and others I knew 99% of what was being taught, but that one sentence that took only five seconds to say was worth taking the class.

Also, I like to take classes and see other teaching styles and methods. It helps me continue to improve in my teaching and gives me ideas of teaching tools that I can incorporate in my classes. You can never stop learning. My theory always is that you will always learn something, perhaps very little, but something from every class you take. Even if it's a one second sentence or one little tool that's mentioned. It's always beneficial to take a class, because you are sure to learn something new!

And sometime it's reassuring to know that the method you've been doing something is the right or ok way to do it. Many times, I will be doing something and I've had no "formal" training on the "correct" way to do it; I just figure something out. But then when someone is standing in front of a class teaching the same way I've been doing it, it's nice to know I did it correctly! Right?

I took a couple of new classes related to something I've never done or done very little of (tatting and the Golden Threads quilting-as-you-go method). No time like the present to learn something new! Tatting I certainly want to try and create something. I have to admit, as I've mentioned in previous posts, that I love handwork, I just don't have time to do it. I can see loving this type of handwork if I can just find time in my day to do it. Actually I did buy a tatting needle and some thread, so I'm going to do something so I remember how to do it and maybe I'll continue on from there. It's simple, it's easy, it just takes time. :)

My personal favorite way to quilt is to stitch the quilt top and then layer the top, batting and backing and quilt the layers together. I've done a little of the quilt-as-you-go method, but it's not my personal favorite way of quilting. It does make it easier to quilt as you have smaller sections to work with inside your machine, but I'm not a fan of the joining together and having a cover fabric on the back. I know it doesn't show that much, but for some reason it just bothers me to have that extra strip on the fabric. But that's just me.

The whole reason for this post: sign-up and take classes! You will learn something! It would be nice to know everything there is to know in the sewing/quilting/embroidery industry, but unfortunately it's just not possible. Participate in classes and you are sure to grow in your knowledge!

Renewing my love of Fiber Etch!

2009-02-28T23:07:00.004-06:00

Fiber Etch - have you ever used this etching gel? I have several times and taught a couple of classes using it several years ago, but it's been a while since I've picked up my bottle. If you've never heard of it, it is a gel that etched out plant fiber fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon. It will not etch polyester, wool or silk, so you can create designs by using different fabrics and etching whatever design or motif you want.

www.embroideryonline.com Design NZ369

Basically what I've done with it is cutwork like the embroidery design above. I've stitched an open cutwork design with polyester thread on a rayon fabric, applied the fiber etch to the area of fabric inside the stitching, heated it with an iron and the fabric inside the stitching darkens and just falls out.

If you've ever done cutwork, usually you stitch the design and then take a little itty bitty pair of scissors and cut out the fabric inside. What a headache! It's tough to cut out the fabric without clipping the threads plus getting a smooth clean finish without those little thread ends sticking out. Just look at the tulip and imagine trying to cut out all the fabric without snipping the threads?!?!

When using the Fiber Etch, the fabric just falls out inside and there is a smooth clean finish on the edge of the thread. It's great to use and I've gotten out of the habit of using it, so this was a good reminder to get it out and create something with it.

What was neat was seeing how Dana (Dana Marie Designs) used the Fiber Etch here at the Sew Expo. She does use it for cutwork with embroidery, but she also showed some pieces using silk/rayon velvet. Trace a pattern such as a simple outlined leaf on the fabric. Just run a line of Fiber Etch following the pattern. Heat it and brush away the fibers. The rayon pile of velvet is etched away and the silk background remains. Just too neat!!!

I actually have some silk chiffon that I was planning on making a skirt out of at some point and doing cutwork around the edge of the hem, but I may dig around in my stash and see if I have a plant fiber fabric that I can do the same thing and use the Fiber Etch. I'm sure I have something!

The great thing with using the Fiber Etch is that you can etch out the top fabric and put another fabric behind it to show through as a different color. Make a very easy project look like it took hours to do! :)

There's some other projects swirling around in my head in which I could use the Fiber Etch and create some neat things, so I just need to get that bottle out in my line of sight and make a note to do something.

Adventures in Puyallup, Washington

2009-02-26T22:30:00.008-06:00

I know, it's been a while since you have heard from me, but hopefully the month of March will get back to a little bit more normal. :)

Right now I'm in Puyallup, Washington attending the Sew Expo! Joanna, my friend from Colorado traveled together, but she is working in the Bernina accessory booth, so we don't get to chat too much during the day. But it's amazing to see so many wonderful vendors and talented people in this industry.

There's lots to see and lots to do! Now if I can just remember everything I am seeing. Here's a few glimpses from the day....:)

From All About Blanks: I've ordered some blank products from All About Blanks and they have wonderful quality items perfect for stitching embroidery. They have lots to choose from and their linens are delicate and sweet! If you are looking for some blank linens, be sure to check out this company online.

I love this for its delicate and elegant look!

The lettering font caught my eye on this pillow.

See the scallops and stitching? Neat idea!

These are so cute! Little tissue holders embroidered!

From Lana Jones: Lana is a talented lady who has recently written a book detailing embroidery on wood. I've seen this done multiple times and for some reason it has me fascinated! Embroidery on wood just sounds interesting. I look forward to reading her book!

I love the embroidered flowers on the clock!

Just plain neat!

Latte Quilt Introduction Video

2009-01-02T07:46:00.002-06:00

I know many of you have been waiting to see the Latte Quilt Introduction video and here it is! Click below to play the video to see it in your browser screen or go to my class schedule to download the video to your computer.

If you are interested in joining this class, be sure to get your class registration and class payment to me before Saturday, January 10th! This class is filling up fast and I will not be accepting any more participants after January 10th.

For full details with supply lists, fabric yardages, class discounts and other class notes & updates, visit my class schedule.

"Monkeys jumping on the bed" is the perfect rhyme for the Monkey Pillowcase!

2008-12-29T07:32:00.003-06:00

From Nancy regarding her Monkey Pillowcase: Recently my daughter moved into her own apartment. I keep thinking of the line from the nursery rhyme; “No more monkeys jumping on the bed.” I am used to having “monkeys” and “monkeys’ friends” at home. This pillowcase makes me smile at my empty nest status and keeps a monkey on the bed.

Learn more embroidery techniques, chenille in the hoop, fusible appliques in the hoop, dimensional objects and seaming in the hoop. Multi-format CD vp3, vip, hus, shv, pec, pes, jef, xxx, exp and dst. Complete pdf instructions.

Get your copy of the pattern today!

Note from Serena: I can so identify with Nancy on the "monkeys jumping on the bed". As a little girl with my two sisters, we would act out (I'm not quite sure what MOM thought about that!) as we sang the nursery rhyme! Ahhhhh....this cute-as-can-be pillowcase brings back wonderful, fun memories and I'm sure you can create your own with this fun and quick project!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T11:37:00.002-06:00

As this special holiday season approaches, I hope you all are able to spend time with family and friends and celebrate the true reason for the season - the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

I will taking several days off around the holiday season, December 24-28. Orders may still be placed online, but will not be shipped until Monday, December 29th.

Just Out! Creative Expressions #21

2008-12-19T07:19:00.000-06:00

Creative Expressions is a quarterly magazine and is a must for anyone who loves creativity, sewing, embroidery and quilting. This magazine captivates and inspires all who read it, with 84 pages full of luscious photography, easy-to-follow directions and inspirational ideas. Plus, there is a bonus pattern sheet in every issue of Creative Expressions.

World-renowned machine embroiderer, Jenny Haskins whose creativity and passion for beautiful colours, along with her philosophy on life “that it is never too late to be what you could have been”, is reflected in every glorious page. This luxuriously produced magazine attracts both the novice and the expert sewer, quiltmaker or embroiderer around the world.

In this issue:
Everlasting Cards
Christmas Table Runner
Baubles, Bangles and Beads
Tiny Treasures
The Magic of the Forest Butterflies
Plus many other creative ideas for you to enjoy!!

Note from Serena: Another great issue from Jenny Haskins! So many creative projects to fill your creative sewing time!

Be sure to get your copy!

I know what's #1 on my Christmas list...what about you?

2008-12-17T07:21:00.002-06:00

Contemplating what I really wanted to put on my Christmas wish list this year took a little thought, but it wasn't too difficult. I can honestly say there aren't too many things I just really, really want or just am dying to have. Sure I would like a new Bernina 830, but my Bernina 200 works fantastic and I love using it. There are always piles of fabrics I want and would use, but I have a whole stash in my sewing room.

Complete new sewing room furniture like a Koala cabinet set would be a perfect addition to my sewing room. But if I did that, then I would need a much larger area that what I have now. Which ultimately means more room, more furniture, more machines, more fabric, etc....and the list goes on and on.

As things would come to mind, I would consider it and then cross it off my list. I kept thinking to myself, "What is the most sought-after item I really need? What could I really use that would be beneficial to me in the days to come? What do I need to be more efficient, be able to get more accomplished and still enjoy doing what I do?"

Time. Yes, time. That's what's #1 on my list.

Let's face it - time is valuable! I can have the greatest sewing machine in the world (which that 830 would certainly be at the top!), the most gigantic stash in the whole wide world (one sorted by fabric type and color, of course!), the largest and most organized sewing room ever built (which would hold everything I ever needed in my stitching!), but without the benefit of time, I just would feel hopeless. Defeated. Unable to accomplish anything.

I'm still learning to use my time efficiently and only do the things that I really desire to do with the stitching time I have available. If I plan to stitch every single garment, quilt, wall hanging, craft project and embroidery design I would like to, I would never complete it all - even if had 500 years to do it! And as a young generation stitcher, I have more years to stitch my projects than various others in this hobby.

For those of you who struggle with the same thing and I know you are out there, you have to pick and choose what you want to spend your time on. If your favorite thing to do is piece quilt tops, then do that and have someone else quilt the layers. Or if you hate selecting fabrics and just want to get to the cutting and sewing, then purchase kits which simplify the process. If your love is machine embroidery, then do it and forget about the embroidery by hand.

That's not to say that venturing out of your typical area of stitching is beneficial, because it is and can prove valuable in giving you greater ideas and learning new things. Try new techniques, take new classes, learn different aspects of stitching and if you find out you love it, incorporate it into your stitching. If it's not quite for you, than set it aside. You did it. You learned something. But you enjoy other aspects of sewing, quilting, embroidering, etc. more.

Discover what you love doing in this hobby and stick with it. Do what you enjoy doing and leave the not-so-desirable parts to someone else who enjoys that part of the project if at all possible. Sure, there are always aspects of any project that are more fun to complete than others, but do what you enjoy stitching. Because you only have so much time to do it in.

So if anyone one of you want to give me something this year, you now know what it is! Oh, and whoever knows of a website selling this much-sought-after item, just email me the link before announcing it to the whole world. I want to be sure to order ample quantities of it, because whoever came up with it, is sure to be selling out within minutes! :)

NEW! Latte Quilt Online Class

2008-12-05T07:37:00.001-06:00

Latte Quilt Class Online
Starting February 2009!
Register online by January 10th!

The Latte Quilt is an elegant quilt that is a pleasure to stitch! You will learn so many details about your machine's decorative stitches, functions, embroidery features and so much more!! Not only will you have a better handle on your machine, decorative stitches and embroidery designs, but you will also have a completed heirloom to keep! Anyone from a novice to advanced machine embroider will find it easy to stitch this quilt with my monthly lessons!

This beautiful quilt features machine embroidery, decorative stitches, ribbon tree trunks, 3D lace embroidery and quilting techniques. Learn how to prepare and cut your fabrics for machine embroidery. You will learn hooping techniques, embroidery design stitching tips and helpful hints in stitching decorative stitches while at the same time completing a beautiful quilt!

I will be sharing my favorite products I use for machine embroidery and my own tips and techniques I have learned throughout my many projects. You will gain loads of information that you can use with so many other projects plus receive a class discount on any order placed during the 12 months of class!

See full details here!

Make It Yourself Holiday Ideas

2008-12-03T15:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas is just around the corner and if you are needing some holiday gift ideas that you can make yourself, here are some places to get you started stitching!

Sew Mama Sew! Handmade Holidays - Sew Mama Sew! has another great 30 days of handmade gift ideas! Be sure to take a peek!

Tipnut.com - Tipnet.com is always one of my favorite sites to visit because of all the project ideas!

Box Bag Tutorial - Kelly shares her great box bag tutorial! Neat idea!

Quilting Gallery - See lots of useful holiday ideas and fun projects, plus be sure to visit the quilting blogs listed online! And if you don't have yours listed, you should!

Whip Up - See the holiday projects and gift ideas you can whip up in no time!

Free Noriko Handbag Purse Pattern - Joan from Lazy Girl Designs give you her year-end gift for a free purse pattern! Joan's the queen of purse and tote bag patterns, so this you won't want to miss!

Reusable Fabric Grocery Bag - Go green and quit using those plastic grocery sacks by making your very own fabric grocery bag!

101 Handmade Gift Ideas - With all these, you are bound to find something for everyone on your list!

Pencil & Drawing Pad Holder - This little project is just too cute and perfect for the artist in your family! Plus see other gift ideas from Skip to My Lou.

Silk Pleated Purse - Elegant says it all with this little pleated and darted purse. Be sure to check out the other purse ideas!

Amy Butler Free Projects - Take a peek at quilts, tote bags, eyeglass holders and pillows from Amy Bulter!

Quilted Tic Tac Toe to Go - A perfect tic tac toe game for traveling! Quick and easy!

Presents Placemat Pattern - Karen shows you how to make a cute placemat just perfect for a table gift set!

Monday Giveaway winner

2008-11-24T08:00:00.002-06:00

It's Monday. It's time to announce the giveaway winner from last week. Congratulations to Dawn for winning the handy, dandy little quilter's tape measure!

Because of Thanksgiving this week and partly because I have an extremely busy week planned, I'm skipping this week's giveaway. But check back next Monday for a fun treat!

Monday Giveaway: Quilter's Tape Measure

2008-11-17T13:06:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to victoria m. for winning last week's giveaway!

Win this wonderful little handy dandy quilter's tape measure in a tin - yes, all 120" worth!

Quilters tape measures are decorative & stored in re-usable tins. 120"/300cm length. Yellow in color. One side measures in inches & the other in centimeters.

A perfect gift for anyone who needs a tape measure! Perfect to carry in your purse or sewing basket!

Didn't win this giveaway, you can still purchase this neat tape measure here!

--To be entered in this giveaway, just leave a comment on this post with your name.

--Post a link to this giveaway on your blog and leave a second comment with the blog post url and you will be entered twice in the giveaway.

--Comments will be open until next Monday, November 24th and the winner announced that same day.

--This giveaway is only available to US residents.

--You must leave an email address in the comments or link back to a blog so I can contact you if you win. If your name is selected and there is no way to contact you, another name will be chosen.

--You have one week to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed, another name will be chosen.

Question: How do you shop for fabric?

2008-11-12T07:53:00.000-06:00

I know "How do you shop for fabric?" seems like an absurd question to ask (After all we all know how to shop...it's the how to stop shopping that's the hard part!), but there are some interesting answers hidden behind that question. Just sit and ponder that question a moment.

Ok, your brain is running with thoughts of driving to a fabric store, walking through the door, finding the pieces of fabric you want/need, purchasing them and then returning home. Or perhaps your thoughts run in the direction of...browsing online at various quilt sites, enlarging the image to see if you want that piece, typing in the yardage you want/need, entering your credit card information and anxiously awaiting for the UPS truck to arrive.

Yep, I know what you are thinking...She has totally lost her mind, what is she thinking asking how do you shop for fabric? We all know how to do that!

Before you totally think I've gone crazy and disregard what I'm about to say, let me ask you some follow-up questions that might produce some interesting and quite useful answers to everyone!

Do you shop with a friend or by yourself?
Do you always only purchase what you need? (Ok, I admit, that probably IS a crazy question!)
When you find a piece you like, does the price determine whether you purchase it or not?
How much time do you allow yourself to shop for fabric?

I find it interesting to see how others shop for fabric, so let me answer the previous questions for you...

Do I shop with a friend or by myself? That depends; it's always more fun to shop with friends and usually I can bounce choices and ideas off each one another, which can really be helpful when trying to make a decision on a piece of fabric. But on the other hand, if I shop by myself, I'm the only one who knows how much I've actually purchased (online purchases are great for that!).

Do I always only purchase what I need? Hmmmm, I might have to think about that one for a moment....well, let's see....you know, I think I can answer that question with a definite and quick "no". Why else would I have a stash of fabric in my sewing room? However, that isn't to say that there are times when I quickly find what I need, purchase it and leave without browsing. Although seeing a bolt at the cutting table or catching a view of coordinating prints online can sure be tempting!

Does price determine whether I purchase a piece of fabric? It can and sometime does, but when it really comes down to it, if it's a piece I fall in love with, I'm going to purchase it no matter the cost. It can also depend on the purpose it is being used for in a quilt or project. A little bit of a more expensive fabric or trim can really complement a quilt and I'm still not investing hundreds of dollars in a small amount to put in that project.

How much time do I allow myself to shop for fabric? If I'm looking to match several pieces or find coordinating fabrics for a new project, I try to allow myself several hours. It takes time pulling out bolts or swatches and deciding what pieces blend together the way I want them to. If I allow myself too little time, I feel I'm being forced to make a decision and it may not be truly what I want.

There's a few of my answers, now it's your turn! How would you answer the questions listed above? Drop me an email or post your answers in the comments; it's always exciting to see how others do their shopping!

If you have a blog and would like to post your answers, just copy the questions above, erase my answers and insert your own on your blog, making sure there is a link back to here. Then come back here and post a link to your post in the comments and we can follow-up on your blog to see your answers.

Monday Giveaway: Olfa 6.5" Frosted Ruler

2008-11-10T11:12:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to Sandy for winning last week's giveaway!
Olfa’s frosted rulers are non-slip for stable and safe cutting and frosted with black grid lines for clarity on light- and dark-material. "The Compact" is 6.5" squared and is excellent for smaller, more intricate piecing of miniature quilts. Great for using as a template to mark and cut triangles, photos, and frames. The easy to read number and grid lines with 1” grids and 1/8” increments ensure precise measurements.

This is a wonderful little 6.5" square ruler to square up quilt blocks for whatever else you are doing! Not only is this a great square ruler, but also check out the "Traveler" which is a 6"x12" ruler with a pivot point angle perfect for mitered corners and triangle cuts!

--To be entered in this giveaway, just leave a comment on this post with your name.

--Post a link to this giveaway on your blog and leave a second comment with the blog post url and you will be entered twice in the giveaway.

--Comments will be open until next Monday, November 17th and the winner announced that same day.

--This giveaway is only available to US residents.

--You must leave an email address in the comments or link back to a blog so I can contact you if you win. If your name is selected and there is no way to contact you, another name will be chosen.

--You have one week to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed, another name will be chosen.

Hankie Blankie Pets At the Zoo!

2008-11-07T08:04:00.000-06:00

A lion, monkey and panda add three new faces to Judy Reynolds cute and cuddly blankie collection. Make them up in bright, fun colors! Your baby or toddler will love them!

Patterns are available with hand embroidery instructions for the faces which includes directions for the faces and blanket.

Pattern instructions are included for each pet construction plus the digitized designs on CD for machine embroidered faces. Mini-CD includes photos and instructions and the designs in these formats: art, art50, exp, hus, pcs, pes, sew, shv, xxx.

15" x 15"

Note from Serena: These are so fun to stitch as well as give as gifts! Another great collection of Hankie Blankie pets!

How do I build up a stash of fabric?

2008-11-06T09:45:00.003-06:00

I know it seems to be a question that has a simple answer, "How do I build up a stash of fabric?" But in all honesty if you have just discovered quilting and are new to fabric, it can be very overwhelming when browsing through aisles of fun and unique fabrics. You see a bolt of fabric and love the print, but is it a piece that should be added to your stash?

Perhaps the better question to ask is not, "How do I build up a stash of fabric?", but "How do I build up a stash of fabric I will use in the future?" After all, your ultimate goal is to use that fabric in a project, whether it's now or in 5 years time (or yes, sometime even later than that!). Unless of course you live in a state with snow and ice year around and that fabric pile acts as added weight in your vehicle!

It's easy to build fabric stashes; just start buying pieces of fabric you see and like. But over time, you can end up with lots of fabric you may or may not use in the future. You want to buy versatile solids, prints and marbles, keeping in mind that if you don't use this for the project you have in mind, could it be easily used for something else? And everyone once in a while buy a piece of fabric just because you love it!

For example: I love cute baby cotton prints. At this point I have no use for them, but I love to look, feel and of course add some to my stash of fabric. Will I buy a few here and there? Yes, but not much. I can only use those pieces for a baby/children themed quilt, tote bag, wall hanging, etc. It is not as versatile as a floral print or marble that I might be able to use a hundred different ways.

I try to buy pieces that I know could be used for more than one project. More and more I am drawn to marbles and tone on tone pieces that can easily be used as a background for embroidery designs in addition to being able to incorporate those into quilt blocks, tote bags, pillows, home dec items, quilt backing, etc.

Do keep in mind that solids, marbles and tone on tone pieces need to dominate your stash of fabric. Those pieces can be used for anything compared to prints which can have limited uses. You will use much more of your solid stash of fabric than you will prints. Most of the time a quilt or project will use a print or a couple of prints as the focal point and then multiple solids, marbles or small prints to coordinate with it.

Just think. How would it look for a quilt to have 10 different large floral fabrics cut into squares, diamonds and triangles and stitched together? It might be busy, cluttered and overwhelming. But if you pieced together a couple of florals and wove in some marbles and solids, your quilt would have a more appealing appearance.

No matter if you are just starting a stash of fabric or adding to a current one, be a wise shopper as you are browsing through the fabric aisles. Sure, there will be pieces you love and will purchase, but also take note if it can only be used a couple of ways or many ways. With that thought in mind, you are sure to add pieces that will eventually make their way into projects.

Anyone have any ideas you would like to share on what prints or solids you buy? How do you determine what pieces of fabric to buy to add to your stash and how much do you purchase?

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Be sure to check out these links for other great fabric information:

Unwanted Fabric: How do you get rid of it?

Fabric Buying: How many yards should I buy?

Houston Quilt Market 2008 - Fun treasures!

2008-11-04T08:42:00.001-06:00

I did manage to pick up some treasures at Quilt Market which is always a fun treat! Don't you just feel deprived if you come home from a quilt show without anything???

Fabric Freedom is a fabric line that Brewer Quilting & Sewing Supplies carries and one that I have been wanting to try. Their selection of marble/batiks looks perfect for an embroidery background, so I picked up several fat quarter bundles to try some stitching.

Fabric Freedom Fat Quarter Bundles

I have had the Latte Quilt on my mind the last couple of months, partly because I am getting ready to teach that quilt next year. So it seems that everywhere I looked, I was drawn to neutral colors. But I found these medallions that looked so neat and see the colors I picked out - ivory, taupe and brown! :)

tassel medallions

This little beaded purse and colorful butterfly buttons are a just because. I didn't really have a reason for purchasing either one...it was just because they caught my eye. Don't you ever have a "just because" purchase?

beaded purse and butterfly buttons

Benartex has some beautiful new collections coming in the next couple of months and I picked up several bundles. These fabrics are not even listed online yet, but there's a cute collection from Mary Lou Weidman called "happiness is..." with some fun little children themed prints. Plus Marianne Elizabeth has a breathtaking collection entitled "Laurel Cottage" of florals in a pink and blue colorway! Just too gorgeous to pass up!

Benartex bundles

These little take out boxes caught my eye and I just couldn't resist. Snuggled inside are several yards of cording in various colors to be couched on or various other uses. I have to admit the packaging is what sold me on these. Oh and notice the ivory/taupe colors again! :)

cording take out boxes

I was making my way to the door, finished for the day and then I spotted the RJR booth with this soft, elegant collection. Oh my, I'm just itching to be making something with it! It's called Sumptuous Living by Robyn Pandolph. I can just see a MarJen for Error quilt created from these fabrics. I really don't need a third MJE quilt, but oh is it hard to not think of stitching another one with these fabrics!

Sumptuous Living by Robyn Pandolph

Houston Quilt Market 2008 - Bernina

2008-11-03T11:01:00.007-06:00

What an exciting event Quilt Market was this year! One of the best things I like in attending market is all the ideas you gain from just browsing around. Not only are there classes to take and learn new things, but just being there gets you excited and ready to start stitching something wonderful!

International Quilt Market
George Brown Convention Center
Houston, Texas

Joanna and I spent part of our time Friday setting up Bernina machines for classes to be held through Market and Festival. We did manage to sit in on a couple of classes and I was able to attend Sample Spree that evening. It is always such a crazy place Friday evening...lots of people trying to crowd into every booth to see what's available! But still a fun adventure!

We spent quite a bit of time with some Bernina staff members and looking around at the Bernina booth. And especially the new BERNINA 830! Ok, I admit, I fell in love with that machine from the very first time I heard about the jumbo hoop and large embroidery area back in April/May. And then when I actually saw the machine on the Bernina webcast in July, I was totally hooked!

Can you just imagine what I felt like when I actually saw that wonderful machine in person?!?! You know it's a large machine and you can read the dimentions, but you don't fully realize just how big it is and just how large of an embroidery area you have to stitch until you actually SEE it. Not only is it great for embroidery, but also so helpful in getting a large quilt in the machine!

Bernina Booth - the Bernina 830 with Jumbo hoop

Just look at that huge hoop!!! Can you just picture the designs that could be stitched within that area! My mind is swirling with so many possibilities!

One fact that I found especially neat is the ability the 830 has to backstitch with decorative stitches. In the past when stitching decorative stitches, the secure function must be used to tie off the threads at the beginning and end of each row because simply hitting the backstitch button would continue the pattern of stitches with stitches piling on top of each other, creating a rather undesired look.

But with the 830, when you hit the backstitch button, the machine tracks back and follows the exact same stitch pattern, eliminating the need for the securing button. Yes, it backstitches the decorative stitch in the same place so you still have a wonderful row of stitches! Now, isn't that just too wonderful?!?!

Bernina Booth - the Bernina 830

Oh, and see that little green outfit behind the machine? Gayle Hillert from Bernina designed it and I never have met someone as creative as she is. She is an amazing lady! It's amazing the number of decorative stitches and techniques she used to create such an adoreable children's outfit. Gayle shares some of the techniques on the Bernina Blog.

Bernina Booth - the Limited Editions Machines

Bernina also has a set of limited editions machines which I seen photos of, but also got to see the machines in person. The activa White Pearl is my favorite! The elegant printing on it just enhances the look of the machine. And the fact that it is a limited edition makes it all the more enticing!

Bernina Booth - activa White Pearl

Jeanne Delpit from Bernina is such a joy to be around! She is such a burst of joy and excitement that there is no way you can be down and discouraged around her! Joanna and I met Jeanne at the Bernina Teacher's Retreat in Chicago last year and she is so sweet!

me, Jeanne, Joanna

Joanna and I had a wonderful time walking the market floor, seeing some familiar faces and meeting some new ones as well as gaining way too many ideas for new projects!

Joanna and I

Monday Giveaway: 38 Charm Fabric Pack

2008-11-03T09:06:00.000-06:00

38 beautiful 5" charm squares are ready to be delivered to your door! Just how many projects can you create with these wonderful little marbled prints in a variety of colors?!?!

--To be entered in this giveaway, just leave a comment on this post with your name.

--Post a link to this giveaway on your blog and leave a second comment with the blog post url and you will be entered twice in the giveaway.

--Comments will be open until next Monday, November 10th and the winner announced that same day.

--This giveaway is only available to US residents.

--You must leave an email address in the comments or link back to a blog so I can contact you if you win. If your name is selected and there is no way to contact you, another name will be chosen.

--You have one week to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed, another name will be chosen.

A last minute trip to Houston, giveaway and Latte Quilt Online Class!

2008-10-30T11:37:00.003-05:00

Whew! The last week has been a blur of activities! Joanna, my friend from Colorado and I decided to make a last minute trip to Houston to attend Quilt Market. Which we did and had a wonderful time! There's always soooo much to see that's new and exciting!

Plus I always gain a ton of ideas for projects to stitch and other fun things to do! Seeing all those wonderful booths just makes me want to just come straight home and start sewing! I've got some fun things to share with you regarding quilt market, including seeing Bernina's brand new 830 sewing/embroidery machine! Which that wonderful machine with the JUMBO hoop is most definitely at the top of my "got-to-have" list!

I'm still in the process of catching up on email and answering those I've received from the past week, so if you haven't heard from me yet, you will be soon!

Oh and that wonderful Olfa rotary cutter giveaway - the winner is Sue! Congratulations! You will enjoy this new rotary cutter; it's breeze to change blades! If you didn't win, you can purchase your very own cutter here or put it on your Christmas wish list!

I'm skipping this week's giveaway, but another new and fun giveaway will be posted on Monday, so don't miss it! Plus I brought some wonderful little treasures from Houston that are just waiting to find their way into your home!

For those of you who have heard little tid bits about an online Latte Quilt class starting in 2009 - yes, it's true! Starting in January/February 2009, I will be teaching an online class to stitch the Latte Quilt. You can sign-up for more information as it becomes available here.

Starch Those Ruffles!

2008-10-22T08:52:00.001-05:00

Starch is one of those necessary liquid items to have near your ironing board! Not only is it great for keeping your fabric crisp and wrinkle free, but it is also great for adding body and stability to ruffles.

Last week I was stitching some ruffles and needed a little more body to the fabric as I was stitching. And suddenly I had the perfect idea - starch! After I sprayed those fabric strips with starch and pressed them dry, the result was perfect! They now had the body I needed to stitch and ruffle them to the fabric.

See how starch can be a huge benefit in your quilting by checking out this article!

Do ruffles have you baffled Take a look at these ideas here and here that might help!

Monday Giveaway: Olfa Quick Changing Rotary Cutter!

2008-10-20T09:31:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Deborah for winning last week's giveaway!

If you struggle with changing your rotary cutting blade, then be sure to take a peek at this new rotary cutter from Olfa!

Olfa has designed this right and left handed rotary cutter so that changing the blade is as easy as breathing! The Quick Change Rotary Cutter has an easy blade change with just a single click. No more assembly with a washer and a nut. Just slide the locking mechanism and the blade immediately releases. How easy is that?!?!

Rotary cutters are an invaluable tool to have for any stitcher, quilter or crafter! It's basically a cutting blade that will slice through fabric, paper and batting (your finger too if you aren't careful!:)) much easier and faster than using a pair of scissors!

I know what you are thinking, "If I already have one rotary cutter, why do I need another one?" Read here to find out several reasons why! Rotary cutters are sharp and can be dangerous, so pick up some safety tips here. Trust me on this...once you have injured yourself with a rotary cutter, you learn to be very careful! :)

If you didn't win this giveaway and would still like a Quick Change Rotary Cutter, you can purchase one here.

--To be entered in this giveaway, just leave a comment on this post with your name.

--Post a link to this giveaway on your blog and leave a second comment with the blog post url and you will be entered twice in the giveaway.

--Comments will be open until next Monday, October 27th and the winner announced that same day.

--This giveaway is only available to US residents.

--You must leave an email address in the comments or link back to a blog so I can contact you if you win. If your name is selected and there is no way to contact you, another name will be chosen.

--You have one week to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed, another name will be chosen.

Splendid Holiday Fabric Collection from Benartex

2008-10-17T07:31:00.001-05:00

Winter roses, holly and flourishes--what an elegant way to celebrate the holidays! Benartex Splendid Holiday collection has all the components to make holiday decorations really special. Elegant prints of antique ivory, crimson, or deep forest green are perfect for any project.

Can't you just see quilts, home dec items and so many other projects created with these beautiful borders, florals and marbles?!?! Take a peek at the home dec set I am creating here and here.

Chrysanthemums Ivory in Splendid Holiday for Benartex 3852-77

Holiday Flourishes Burgundy Splendid Holiday Benartex 3848-88

Blooms Border Ivory/Red Splendid Holiday for Benartex 3846-10

Splendid Bouquet Burgundy Splendid Holiday for Benartex 3847-88

Matching fabrics is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

2008-10-15T08:27:00.001-05:00

You have found the perfect quilt pattern for your next project! The prints and colors chosen for the quilt in the pattern are perfect. You love the way the colors blend together and sparkle with each other. How simple it would be if you could find the exact same fabrics used in the pattern photo. So off to the fabric store you go, determined to find those exact fabric pieces!

But alas, that is not to be! After searching high and low, you finally admit to yourself that you are going to have to be brave and select your own fabrics. Yikes!!! Doesn't that just scare you down to your toes?!?! What if this doesn't blend with that? What if the blue in this print clashes with the blue in that print? Do all my fabrics have to be the same color or all prints? There's so many choices; I don't know what to do!

Never fear; it's not nearly as difficult as you have imagined it to be!

Start by allowing yourself some time to look at fabrics and consider your choices. Don't say to yourself I should be able to pick out my fabrics in 15 minutes, because it will take longer than that. The more fabric choosing you do, that faster you will be able to say at a glance, "That's perfect!" But for now, allow yourself time to browse and consider all possibilities.

Choose your dominate piece of fabric that has the colors in it you want first of all. Look at the colors in that print and decide what colors you want to bring out. Lay out your dominate print and begin pulling other fabrics in various colors to lay with it to see what it looks like. You may have a color scheme in mind when you see the print, but when you start putting those colors with it, it may not turn out to look like what you are thinking.

If you are wanting to keep a dominate color theme, pick various shades of the same color that blend with the dominate print. You may still need to bring in another color to accent the others and create some variety in the quilt, but you can still stick to that color. Or bring in multiple colors into the quilt from the dominate fabric. Create variety with solids, marbles, small prints and stripes.

Keep in mind that picking out fabrics for a project is not something you learn overnight. The more you do it, the easier it will become. Remember that the first time you pick out your own colors of fabric, what you pick out may not be perfect. But the more you do it, the easier it will get.

Just think back to the first 1/4" seam you stitched or the first block you created. And then think of what you can do now! The more you do it, the easier and quicker it gets! And the best thing of all is that there is no wrong choice, just many different ones!

Have fun picking out fabrics for your next project!

Fall fabric bowl decoration

2008-10-14T07:43:00.000-05:00

The last few days have really felt like Fall here in Kansas! This my center fall decoration on our kitchen table. It is a large square fabric bowl I made from Fun, Fast and Easy Bowls several years ago.

To create the bowl shape and edges you satin stitch the raw edge of the fused fabric and timtex. I used a variegated rayon embroidery thread in fall colors and it just adds to the fall theme along with the embroidered leaves on each turned down corner.

Then I found a caramel-smelling candle and the same scented potpourri and combines those two in the bowl! Perfect!!

I've put this on the table every year for the last couple of years and have never lit the candle until now. Amazingly the scent of the candle and potpourri is still evident even when the candle isn't lit; even after several years!