A Crazy Quilting Adventure

TAST Weeks 1-3 and Viv's Tree Skirt Wedge

2012-01-26T05:01:00.002-05:00

Well, I am completely behind taking photos and posting here. (Who would have thought?!?!)

We are doing a tree skirt wedge RR on WWCQ. The first wedge that I worked on is Viv's. Here is the whole wedge.

Button hole stitch Christmas trees.

Fly Stitch seam and snowflake.

Feather stitch seams.

Secret Sister and Christmas Cracker Gifts

2011-12-27T17:33:00.001-05:00

I received such a fantastic assortment of items from my Secret Sister at WWCQ and from the Christmas Crackers on CQI. Thanks so much ladies!

Christmas Tree Skirt

2011-12-17T05:36:00.000-05:00

Over at WWCQ, we are going to have a year long RR with wedges for a Christmas Tree Skirt. These are big wedges; 24" in length and 18.5" at the largest width. So, as you can imagine, each of the wedges will probably take a bit longer to embellish than your average RR block.

Here are the wedges that I made:

I pieced these using the same technique as I did for the purple blocks that I posted about, Martha Green's method. I really do find that this is a great way to make a dent in my cotton fabric scrap bin; these wedges are entirely out of scrap fabric! What's really funny about the process is that I made so many units, that I probably have enough for two more tree skirts...lol!

Stitching on Gerry's Retreat Block

2011-12-16T05:41:00.000-05:00

Late September, I attended a crazy quilting retreat with some ladies from CQI. One of the things that we did leading up to the retreat was a round robin with fabric selected by the challenge leader. Boy was this fabric a challenge!

Gerry's block showed up to the retreat a little bare, so some of us volunteered to take it home and give it some more stitching. Here is what the block looks like now.

I added the fan at the bottom and did some stitching on a couple of the seams. I also added the spray of ribbon flowers at the top...which, now that I look at it, it looks like there really should be one more. I did send Sharon one extra, but it didn't have leaves. =( I also did some stitching on the center, adding pizzazz to the motif that was printed on the challenge fabric.

I hope she likes it!

A Festival of Flowers

2011-11-29T16:54:00.001-05:00

I was looking for something different to do while sitting in front of the TV and discoverd that I really like to make flowers. I've found that the Clover templates are really great, especially the medium round yo-yos and the small kanzashi templates. I also ran across something called the Hana Ami flower loom; this makes really cool looking flowers as well.

Here is a picture of my latest flower creations. There are kanzashi flowers (the ones with the petals), hana ami flowers (made out of yarn), yo-yo's, rolled fabric strip flowers, folded ribbon flowers, and twisted fabric strip flowers.

I've also started an Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Bananers2 There isn't much in there yet, but we all have to start somewhere!

Martha Green Piecing

2011-10-13T18:07:00.000-04:00

At the crazy quilting retreat in Estes Park, we had a teacher, Martha Green, give us lessons. One of the things that she taught us was her piecing method. I was pretty intrigued, so I decided to give it a try with a bag of fabric scraps that I had lying around.

The first picture is my "mess" in progress, followed by the blocks that I have already pieced.

Faces, Faces, Faces II Round Robin

2010-10-05T14:39:00.000-04:00

The computer thing really threw me for a loop, so here are pictures of all of the blocks that I worked on during the CQI Faces, Faces, Faces II Round Robin.

More Project Linus Quilts

2010-10-05T14:31:00.000-04:00

Project Linus Quilts

2010-10-05T14:22:00.000-04:00

Over the last few months, Erin and I managed to donate a bunch more quilts to Project Linus. If you ever have the urge to donate, please do so! There is a sick child out there that would love to have your quilt. Here they are...

My Computer!

2010-08-11T04:48:00.002-04:00

After another month and a half, I finally got my computer back from the shop! Just thought I'd drop in a quick note to watch out for lots of pictures later this week!

Another Giveaway!

2010-07-11T08:24:00.000-04:00

Since I can't post pictures of my own, the least I should do is post other people's giveaways and their pictures!

This week, Kerry is having a giveaway at KerryKatieCakes! In her giveaway, she has some very neat looking clock charms.

And, a whole bunch of very nice looking threads!

Giveaway at Crazy by Design

2010-07-01T05:29:00.000-04:00

Cathy at Crazy by Design is having a fantastic giveaway....and, she's opened her own etsy shop.

I've been thinking about opening an etsy or artfire shop, but don't know if I have the time or the talent. I've been making some really cute aprons (not cooking type of aprons)...some of the ladies in my quilting guild suggested that I should do a workshop on how to make them...perhaps I should start there. I would love to post a picture of the aprons, but alas, my computer is still in the shop.

Not Again!?!?

2010-06-25T12:45:00.001-04:00

Well, I thought that everything was done breaking...the computer, the car....oh yeah, and now the computer again...My computer that is. So, here is a post with no pictures... =(

While I haven't visited the blogs of everybody that participated in the "Where Bloggers Create" Party, the ones that I have looked at so far have certainly been inspiring! In fact, my hubby has several new projects to work on for my space. I mean, what will he do without me giving him projects to do?

Right now I have him working on making a design wall. We'll be using two 4x8 ish sheets of 3/4" insulation board that is covered in flannel and then framed with moulding. Next he'll be making me a spool rack for all my ribbons...this will be a block with just a bunch of dowel rods sticking out of it.

Of course when I have my computer back and they are done I will post pictures!

My Creative Space

2010-06-18T17:37:00.000-04:00

It's party time! Let me show you around my creative space! If you'd like to see other creative spaces, take a look at the button on the left hand side bar.

These first two pictures are from the entryway of my sewing room.

This is my Viking, my very first sewing machine. The desk is an old computer desk that my husband cut a hole into to house my sewing machine flush to the top of the desk.

This is a photo of some of my fabric stash.

My Bernina.

This is a shelf system made by my husband. It holds paints, jars of beads, buttons, and whatnots. The cabinets below the shelf have lace, threads, and other embellishments sorted by color.

A closer look at the shelf.

Fancy yarns sorted by color in an over the door shoe holder.

More fabric stash. All of the fabric in these cubes were folded the same way. Fold in half selvedge to selvedge, then in half again. I used the widest ruler that I have and wrapped the fabric around the ruler until there was no more to wrap. I didn't use any of those special boards that have been marketed and it has worked out fantastically.

Thread on the pegboard. This is one end of my center cabinets. The central cabinets are 4 double cabinets with 2 drawer units. The tops were salvaged from old computer desks.

Here is a view facing the entryway. The bookshelves were also made by my husband. The wire drawer units hold fat quarters all folded in a way similiar to the larger cuts of fabric. I also have some wool here and at least one drawer of scraps and a drawer of 100% wool sweaters waiting to be turned into something new.

This is the area where I do my "messy" stuff....painting, dyeing, mod podge, etc. I have batting storage on top.

These are baskets full of my fancy fabrics, both scrap and yardage. I also have a couple of color sorted baskets of cotton scraps as well.

This is an inside view of one of my cabinets. I have projects sorted into shoe boxes for a quilt that is ready to be made.

Quilts for Babies

2010-06-15T05:58:00.001-04:00

Erin and I made these two quilts for a couple of co-workers whose wives had little girls recently. We actually made pretty good time because the little ones aren't even one yet! =P

This quilt is called "I Spy Color!".

This quilt is called "Bubbley Toes". It just reminded me of taking a bath with lots of bubbles...don't ask me why.

Lace Dyeing

2010-06-08T16:23:00.000-04:00

Over the last couple of weeks, I have been doing a bit of lace dyeing and painting. It surely is fun experimenting with different mediums. These are dyed with several different things. I've used Adirondack alcohol inks, Tsukineko inks, food coloring, and Pebeo paints.

My favorite of all of these to use is the Adirondack inks. The bottle has a fine point dropper that makes it easy to apply; also, it's pretty neat to use a blotter pad to blot the ink on the surface. This gives a mottled type of appearance. Some of the flowers were done using this method; they're the ones that have more white in them.

Faces, Faces, Faces 2 DYB

2010-06-08T16:15:00.001-04:00

I've discovered a new way to upload posts to Blogger; so, not only am I sending this to all of the participants in the Faces, faces, faces 2 DYB at CQI, but I am also posting to my blog at the same time! How neat is that?!?

The picture is my work on Colleen's block. I had no idea at all what to do at first, but then it hit me! Boy, oh boy did I have fun doing the hair!!

Juli

Two More Quilts for Quilts for Kids

2010-06-08T16:06:00.003-04:00

Erin and I finished and sent off two more quilts for the charity Quilts for Kids.

One of them is an Alice in Wonderland themed quilt called "Imagine"; the other is an airplane theme quilt called "Fly in the Sky".

Quilts

2010-05-08T08:34:00.000-04:00

Erin (a friend from work) and I have been working on a bunch of quilts over the past few weeks, here is some of our progress.

This first quilt is the first quilt that she has ever made.

These next two quilts are quilts for the charity Quilts for Kids. These quilts are being made for Quilts for Kids in conjuction with Downy Touch for Comfort. A neat thing about the Downy website is that you can register the quilter's first name and name of the quilt and then give a short story. The family that receives the quilt can then add to the story of the quilt if they wish. "Cruisin' Cars" is the car quilt below. We have about four more that are in progress for this organization as well. I must say, I love the pigs!!

My Purse and the Take A Stitch Tuesday

2010-05-08T08:23:00.000-04:00

Now that the purse contest on CQI is over, I can post pictures of the purse that I made for a contest on CQI. I incorporated a couple of the stitches from the Take A Stitch Tuesday challenge at Sharon B's blog.

My Computer is Back! Hearts IV RR..

2010-05-08T08:12:00.000-04:00

Well, I finally got my computer back, so here are some pictures that were taken when it decided to not be friendly any more.

Here is the work that I did on Carolyn's block for the Hearts IV round robin on CQI. I loved the colors on her block!

Giveaway at Nicki Lee's

2010-05-06T05:13:00.000-04:00

Once again, Nicki Lee is wowing people with her creativity! She is having another fantastic giveaway at her blog.

Here is a photo of the fantastic goodies!

Bad Things Come in Threes...Right?

2010-05-02T09:14:00.000-04:00

Well, I've been busy stitching and quilting the last few weeks. I've worked on several round robins for Hearts for at CQI. I've started making a needlebook for myself with one of the blocks that I received with my Christmas Cracker this year. Erin (a friend from work) and I have been busy stitching away on quilts for Quilts for Kids and a couple of co-workers who just had babies.

Unfortunately, I can't post pictures...which is where the title of this post comes in...

My favorite sewing machine kinda went on the fritz, so that is in the shop.
The mother board on my computer stopped working, so that is in the shop...and the reason why I can't post pictures.
My coffee grinder broke!?!?!?! I sent an email to the manufacturer, and I think they are ignoring me...I mean I've only had the coffee grinder for a few months; they should send me a new one.

So, those are the three bad things for me. I hope nothing else that I like is going to go on the fritz.

I'm Still Stitching

2010-03-29T16:29:00.000-04:00

I just wanted all of you to know that I am still stitching and participating in the TAST Challenge hosted at Pin Tangle. Unfortunately, I can't post pictures yet...so I'm gonna have to leave you hanging. But don't worry, when the time is right, I will post pictures.

Giveaway at Nicki Lee's

2010-03-13T14:53:00.001-05:00

Nicki Lee is having a fantastic giveaway on her blog! Check it out: http://cqnickilee.blogspot.com/

She also has a fantastic etsy shop here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ravioleedreams

I must say that her hand painted/dyed lace is fantastic! I have had the opportunity to use some before and it is perfectly lovely and well painted. You should stop by her shop sometime!

What I've been up to...

2010-03-13T14:48:00.000-05:00

This block was done for a DYB round robin on CQI. I stitched this whole block. The snowman was my favorite.

This is the for the same DYB, but I only stitched a bit of this block. I did the wavy beads and the straight stitched circles.

This is for a traditional round robin on CQI. The lace was already part of the block, so I did a herringbone stitch around the heart. I also did a stem stitch heart in the center with some spider web roses.

Here I did a yo-yo heart with a button center and a beaded ribbon coming out.

A while back, it actually snowed here! So, what better thing to do, than snow paint!! So, I did...

And...the Winner is...

2010-02-16T17:59:00.000-05:00

....Comment #3!! I used the random number generator, and it chose #3, so Athena from the blog Miss Millifecent's World. Congratulations and watch out for an email!

One World, One Heart Giveaway

2010-02-06T20:59:00.000-05:00

I recently came across a blog hosted by Lisa. It is called A Whimsical Bohemian. Here she is hosting the One World, One Heart giveaway. It's a blogging event to unite bloggers around the world.

For this giveaway, I have made a homemade pincushion on a pedestal of sorts. The stand is a thrift store find, well suited for this purpose. There are two pictures below of the same pincushion from different vantage points. Leave your comment on this post to be entered into my drawing. Please only post once, and do so by February 15th. A winner will be selected using the random number generator.

2010 Challenge Block

2010-01-03T13:02:00.000-05:00

At CQI, the monthly challenge is going to be a little bit different this year. Instead of working the challenge on potentially different blocks each month, they will all be done on one. The CQ portion of this square is about 23 1/2" with the whole thing measureing 29". This was actually a challenge just piecing with all of the curves and the size! Which brings us to the January challenge...curves and fans!

Some of the curves I machine pieced, others will be appliqued down and are currently pinned or basted.

Tyler's Peeps

2009-12-30T15:53:00.000-05:00

I had this brilliant idea to capture Tyler's people drawings on fabric! I think they'll make up something cute for Christmas next year.

Here is the first person:

I've Been Busy...

2009-12-30T09:31:00.000-05:00

Well, it seems that I have been working on quite a number of things over the past few weeks. I guess I have absolutely no ability to work on just a single project at a time...

First we have Laura Roth's blocks, part of the Winter/Xmas DYB RR on CQI. Because we are short a member of the group, we have to work the whole 6" block like normal and do a bit of work on an extra block as well.

Next up is my block for the Hearts IV RR, also on CQI. This time it is a traditional round robin, so only one block to make here.

I tried my hand at lace painting the other day (only one piece). This piece actually turned out well enough that I will do some more. I used Jaquard and Pebeo paints that were watered down.

I've also decided to learn how to do Brazilian Embroidery. Let me tell you, this stuff is great! I love the dimensional look that this type of embroidery gives to the overall presentation! It takes a bit of practice to learn how to tame those wild rayon threads, but it is well worth the frustration. The picture is my first stab at it (pun intended).

And, last but not least, there is another fantastic giveaway! This one is being held at The Teakettle Corner, stop by and have a look.

It's time to open the Christmas Crackers!

2009-12-26T10:48:00.000-05:00

Christmas Cracker opening time is here! Boy was it fun to see all of the things that could be crammed into these paper towel tubes!

These are the contents of the cracker from Karrin! All in a Christmas theme, which is a current theme of blocks that I am working on!

These next three pictures are the block and contents of the cracker from Nicki Lee. I love the colors! These will work perfectly for the next traditional round robin, Hearts, that I am going to participate in at CQI.

These next two pictures are the block and contents from Carolyn! I love the black and red blocks! It will be fun to come up with a series of blocks to match.

Giveaway at Skye Jewels

2009-12-23T08:48:00.000-05:00

The giveaways are rampant this year! Here is another fabulous one. It is being hosted at Skye Jewels. Visit for a chance to win.

Giveaway at Robin's Egg Blues

2009-12-23T08:39:00.000-05:00

Another fantastic giveaway is being hosted at Robin's Egg Blues! Boy oh Boy is there something for everyone!!

Paper or Plastic?...Wait...Fabric!

2009-12-19T18:31:00.004-05:00

During the Sew Mama Sew giveaway week, I won a Green Bag Lady bag and kit. I put the kit bag together, and since it was such a breeze to do, I made a few more of my own. I did modify the pattern given by Green Bag Lady a little bit. I used french seams and did my handles a bit different. I think each bag took about 20-30 minutes to make, so not a lot of time at all. Here are the bags after a shopping trip. If I had one more bag made, I wouldn't have needed a bag from the store. So, gotta make a few more!

Link to the Green Bag Lady's Blog where this bag pattern can be found: http://greenbaglady.blogspot.com/

Get into the spirit of saying no to paper and plastic! Make some bags and earn a chance to win at Sew Mama Sew: http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=3925

Christmas Crackers

2009-12-10T04:40:00.003-05:00

At CQI, we had the annual Christmas Cracker swap. Basically, you take a paper towel tube and fill it up with all kinds of goodies and wrap up the tube in a cq block or fancy fabric. I had to split my tubes down the middle so they would expand to fit everything in there. LOL!

Here are the Crackers I made:

It was actually really fun to make these up. I have three gorgeous crackers in return that are awaiting their opening until Christmas!

The Winner is....

2009-12-09T15:58:00.001-05:00

Sewfunky!!

I sent you an email. Thanks for everybody that stopped by to look at my blog!

Tis the Season..for Giveaways!

2009-11-29T16:02:00.003-05:00

That's right, giveaways must be ringing in the air! So, I am going to join in on the fun. I will be giving a small stash of fabric (cottons and fancy), some fibers, seed beads, and buttons...suitable for a CQ block or two. Here is a picture:

Post a comment that includes an email address to contact you (if you aren't a blogger member) so that I can get an address if you are the winner. I will do one entry per person and another entry if you link this giveaway from your blog. (If you do link from your blog, please let me know that you did in your comment.)

Post comments by December 9th at 1200 EST. A random drawing will be held to determine the winner shortly thereafter.

Not so Plain Jane

2009-11-29T15:41:00.003-05:00

In the current issue of Cloth Paper Scissors, I was inspired by the dolls created by Nola Hart. She had a basic body pattern in the issue, so I decided to make an attempt at my second art doll. (The first one was never completed...lol)

What came of it is: Not so Plain Jane.

She started out as a piece of plain old natural muslin. I started out with a purple metalic followed by a lime green fabric paint by Pebeo (setacolor). Her "shoes" are black setacolor and her "stockings" are a green acrylic. Jane's hair is silk throwster by Stef Francis (which I still don't know if it is attached well.). Her clothes are various scraps of ribbon, brocade-ish type, and silk fabrics.

A close-up of her head:

My husband thinks that I am some kind of lunatic for making this, but I enjoyed myself. So, that is all that counts!

But, what in the heck do you do with the dolls that you make? I'm not really a nick-nacky type of person, so it seems strange to me to just have it sitting out on a shelf or something.

Another Fantastic Giveaway at...

2009-11-29T14:17:00.003-05:00

Here is a picture of one of several lots of items that Cathy from Crazy by Design is giving away on her blog! You can check it out here: http://cathyscrazybydesign.blogspot.com/

In the spirit of the holidays (and the fact that I have so much stuff), I think that I am going to put together a giveaway as well. Check back soon...

Meadow Street Rose

2009-11-14T18:38:00.002-05:00

While perusing blogs this evening, I ran across a link for a fabulous giveaway! A gorgeous rose that can be used for any variety of things! Here is the link for Wayside Treasures: http://waysidetreasures-sandi.blogspot.com/

Peggy's Xmas DYOB

2009-10-31T10:41:00.003-04:00

At CQ International, I am participating in a Christmas/Winter "Do Your Own Block" round robin. Peggy's blocks were the first ones for me to work on. On top is the blank block and below that is the picture of the block with my additions.

Above is another of Peggy's blocks. We have one less member than expected so we each have to add a little something to one other block that was sent. I added the beaded wheat ear seam treatment and the gold reindeer.

Totally Useless SAL Progress

2009-10-19T05:11:00.005-04:00

Well, it certainly has been a while since I posted my status in regards to the Totally Useless SAL. http://dragonmyneedle.blogspot.com/ I definately have been filling my vessel though.

Now, since the end of the year is coming up, I need to figure out what to do with all of the threads that I have collected. Anybody have some good ideas?

Xmas/Winter DYOB II

2009-10-12T09:09:00.002-04:00

Here is a picture of the blocks that I made up for a new round robin. This is a "Do Your Own Block" series in Christmas/Winter theme done on CQ International. The blocks are 6" each.

I love the Christmas theme and have been working on several larger size blocks. One of which participated in a recently finished round robin. Eventually, all of these blocks with the Christmas theme will be put together into a wall hanging for above the fire place during the holiday season.

Pin Cushion for Secret Pal

2009-10-12T09:06:00.004-04:00

I kept seeing these fantastic pincushions on ebay. Essentially, they were CQ'ed fabrics that were somehow fastened to a pedestal of sorts. So, I thought that I would try making one myself. Here is what I came up with:

I gave this to my secret pal in the latest Secret Pal swap held on CQ Secret Pals. I really hope she liked it!!

Blue Color Study RR

2009-10-12T09:00:00.003-04:00

These are pictures of blocks that I stitched during the Blue Color Study RR on CQforNewbies.

Blue satin ribbon attached with button and french knots. (above)

Bead roses with fly stitch stems. (above)

Blue button seam treatment. Fly stitch stem with french knot flowers and bead and sequin flowers.

More From Whatever Goes

2009-10-12T08:55:00.002-04:00

Here is another block from the Whatever Goes RR. I added the brown seaweed with maroon fly stitch. There are also random fish thrown in there as well.

The Past Few Months....

2009-10-12T08:46:00.004-04:00

Well, I am clearly behind in my postings, so here is what I have been doing for the past few months...

These are from a round robin called Whatever Goes.

Above is a satin ribbon with french knots and buttons on the end.

I also added stem stitching and french knots to the already stitched flowers on the fabric. Then I added flower beads to the ends of some of the stems.

Another shot.

For the above picture, I added french knots with gold metallic thread to the already existing print.

Rebecca's Block

2009-05-17T08:56:00.002-04:00

This is Rebecca's block for the Blue Color Study Round Robin on the CQ for Newbies group. I added a seam of buttons, another seam with herringbone stitch done in Caron Impressions silk-wool blend color 7035.

The patch I did has fly-stitch branches in DMC cotton floss. There are french knot flowers and cast on stitch buds done in DMC perle cotton #5. 4mm Silk ribbon leaves were added to the buds. There are also sequin and bead flowers as well.

Sarma's Block

2009-05-17T08:47:00.003-04:00

These are pictures of Sarma's block from the Whatever Goes Round Robin. I added french knots out of Kreinik metallic braid to the central flower. I also added a couple seam treatments...herringbone stitch and fly stitch. I also stitched (stem stitch) an oriental motif to tie in the fabric.

Totally Useless SAL

2009-04-19T15:29:00.003-04:00

Well, I had completely forgetten to post my initial picture for the Totally Useless SAL hosted by YoYo at Dragon My Needle. There is a button on my page to go to her block. Also, here is a link to the information if you would also like to participate in the SAL: http://dragonmyneedle.blogspot.com/2009/01/progress-and-new-sal.html

Here is my wee bit in its temporary location:

Kathy's CQ Block

2009-04-19T15:16:00.003-04:00

Here are a couple of pictures of the work that I did on Kathy's block for the Royal Blue Group for the Blue Color Study on CQ for Newbies. The first picture is of a sea treatment that I did. It has a light blue cotton DMC herringbone stitch with french knots and glass butterfly beads.

This next picture shows another sea treatment and two patches. The seam was done in perle cotton #5 and is a feather stitch. The patch on the right is a herringbone circle with lazy daisy silk ribbon flowers and sequins with beads. The patch on the left is encrusted with beaded roses, blue buttons, lazy daisy silk ribbon flowers, french knot flowers, and yo-yo flowers with beaded centers.

Below is a picture of the whole block. I was the first one to work on this!

Nancy's CQ Block

2009-04-19T15:05:00.004-04:00

Here are some pictures of the additions that I made to Nancy's block for the FFT#6 round robin on CQI. Below are two pictures of the block as a whole. Many talented individuals have worked on this so far!!

In this next picture, I added a vine of pink and purple flowers using lazy daisy and cast on stitch. I used Edar Boucle threads for the flowers. I also did two seam treatments. One of them has yellow french knot silk ribbon flowers with leaves and the other is the salmon herringbone with blue cast on stitches.

I also added a "seam" of crochet.

Here is a picture with a basket of flowers. I believe that these were done using french knots, but since I waited so long to post about it, I have forgotten...lol!

Polymer Clay Faces

2009-03-29T16:46:00.004-04:00

Well, I figured I might as well try my hand at another craft! Just what I need to do, lol! At any rate, I've tried my hand at making polymer clay faces. Of course, these are going to be used to embellish crazy quilt squares. The top threeish rows I brushed with PearlX pigments prior to baking and then glazed with a glossy glaze. The bottomish rows I baked, painted with acrylic paints, brushed with PearlX pigment, then glazed with a satin finish. I used Sculpy clay to make all of these and had no problems what so ever.

I think I like the top threeish rows the best. Some of the other faces look like women with too much make-up on. Perhaps they will look better with hair or beads or something.

Blue Color Study on CQ4N

2009-03-14T18:44:00.002-04:00

Here is my bare block for the Blue Color Study round robin on CQ for Newbies. I had trouble putting it together at first because I thought it would be strange to have a block in all one color, but I really like how it turned out. I can't wait to see what everybody adds to it!!

FFT#6 on CQI - Dakotah's Block

2009-03-14T18:23:00.002-04:00

Here is another crazy quilt block from the round robin on Crazy Quilt International. Dakotah's block is absolutely gorgeous. I love the purples, greens, and maroons.

Here is one seam treatment. I added 4mm silk ribbon in green to the lace that was already on the block. I also did straight stitch maroon flower pots with straight stitch leaves in green and lazy daisy flowers in purple.

Here are two more seam treatments. There is a maroon herringbone stitch with a metallic thread straight stitch across the junction. Also, I added white flower shaped beads with purple bead centers, straight stitch leaves, and maroon berry french knots.

Here is a patch with purple and ivory silk ribbon flowers and beaded roses. Although it is hard to see, there is also feather stitch greenery.

I also added a silk ribbon basket of flowers. The flowers are made with purple and ivory silk ribbon and maroon french knots.

Marci's Block

2009-02-14T11:38:00.000-05:00

These are pictures of Marci's block. Marci is one of the participants in the FFT #6 round robin that is being done with the CQ International Yahoo group.

This picture (above) shows an addition of pistils in the preprinted flower fabric. Let me just say that those flowers called for that. The stitches are an elongated french knot.

The above photo shows a seam treatment and two butterflies. The seam treatment is done with silk ribbon (4mm) leaves and purple french knots for the flower bunches. The butterflies are done with silk ribbon wings and body. One butterfly has french knots on the wings, while the other has fly stitching done on the wings.

This photo (above) shows buttons with flowers stitched on them. They are done with straight stitch leaves and stems and 11/0 seed beads for the flowers.

The photo above shows another seam treatment. This particular one has a herringbone stitch in yellow with purple french knots below. The flowers are done with a long straight stitch for the stem and silk ribbon and 11/0 seed beads for the flowers.

This is a yo-yo flower with 13mm silk ribbon leaves.

And, above is a picture of the whole block!

A Few more Blocks!

2009-02-13T16:38:00.001-05:00

This crazy quilt block is a result of a round robin that I participated in. I believe this one was done with FLS on Yahoo. Everybody that worked on my block did a super fantastic job!

Here is another finished block! This one is completely done by me. Though, now after looking at some other fantastic work by many talented individuals, I am thinking that perhaps my squares aren't embellished enough.

And, block number three. This block is actually only one in a series of blocks. I've been making myself "kits" with some of my fabrics so I can make a larger sized quilt to hang above the fireplace. The theme fabric for this block is the "fashionable lady" commercially printed fabric.

Where does that fabric come from?!?!

2009-02-13T16:30:00.000-05:00

It turns out that I absolutely love the thrift shop! I had no idea that there would be so many silk and velvet shirts/dresses there. These are perfect for crazy quilting!!! Here are some pictures from my thrift shop finds a few weeks ago...

Nekkid CQ Blocks

2009-01-04T08:53:00.000-05:00

Good Morning and Happy New Year!

I'm hosting a swap for Crazy Quilt Embellishments/Fabric on the About.com quilting forum. I thought it would be fun to post a "fabric primer" so everybody could see what types of fabrics that I will be including in the baggies that I make....so, I did...lol!! The two blocks above are two different sets of fabric!

Beads for Trade (ACTS)

2008-12-26T16:57:00.000-05:00

I have glass, wood, stonish, shell, and hemalyke beads for trade. These are all larger beads (I don't know what sizes). Here are some pictures:

What I've been working on...

2008-12-26T10:15:00.000-05:00

Well, I've lately been working on some crazy quilting blocks and seam treatments for the CQI build a seam challenge. They've been going pretty well.

The week eleven build a seam was a pyramid button hole stitch. Here are a couple pictures...

The week 12 BAS stitch was a beaded feather stitch. Here are pictures for that one:

Overall, the stitching has been going pretty well. And, it is pretty fun as well.

I know, I know...why a new blog?

2008-12-19T13:19:00.000-05:00

Well, Blogger won't let me change my user name, so I am starting a new blog...lol... but, they came up with the coolest thing....the import/export tool...so, here we are!!!

It sure has been a while!

2008-06-16T17:14:00.000-04:00

Just like the title says, it sure has been a while since I posted. The picture posted above is just one of the shots that I have from when we went to Brazil.

I'm currently deployed, so haven't been doing much in the way of quilting. Over the past few months, I have visited Rio and Valparaiso and of course, San Diego. We'll be in San Diego for a bit, so I'm checking out the things to do around here.

I do want to put in a plug for (those in the San Diego area) a fantastic coffee shop...it's called Lestat's coffee house on Adams Ave. Let me tell you, this is the best coffee I've had in quite some time!! (And free wifi too, which is how I am updating my blog right now!)

Well, tata for now.

Block Lottery: String Blocks

2008-01-20T18:22:00.000-05:00

Well, here are the blocks that I made for the Block Lottery at about.com (http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=start&webtag=ab-quilting ).

A look at all eight blocks below.

Here are the blocks a little closer:

What's Been Going on Lately?!?

2007-12-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I think I finally have a free moment to post some pictures...so, here goes...

The quilt above is called "Major League". All of these blocks came from a baseball block swap done several years ago at About.com. I'm happy to say that this is no longer in my UFO pile....

The quilt pictured above is called "Bunny Hop". It was a gift for a co-worker in celebration of their new bundle of joy.

The quilt pictured above is "Helen's Hug." These blocks were put together by a group of fine and caring individuals from RCTQ. I made a call for Hug blocks for my MIL, and these people stepped up to the plate and sent in blocks. As a result of everybody's hard work, Helen received her much needed Hug.

Talk about out of date!

2007-12-23T08:45:00.000-05:00

I never really realized how long it has been since I last posted. Between the ship schedule and college course work, there isn't enough time in the day. I finally have a few days off (in a row), so I'll be able to update my blog with the latest happenings with my quilts, dyeing, and painting. So, be prepared.....I'll post again soon.

Another Try.

2007-06-09T03:54:00.000-04:00

Well, it appears that when I use Microsoft Word to upload my blog entry, it doesn't also upload the pictures. So, I am back to the old way of doing things for now. At any rate, the picture above was supposed to go with my last post. These are all of the fabrics that I have recently dyed...

Boy, Did I get behind….

2007-06-04T04:06:00.000-04:00

Geez, I can't believe I haven't posted here since mid-March. I apologize for that one. Let's see…what have I been doing? Ah, yes. Anatomy and Physiology I and Statistics…lol…those take up a bunch of my time.

I have been spending quite a lot of time dyeing fabric though. The other weekend I dyed to the tune of 56 yards of fabric! I know, sounds like a lot. But it was fun and I think I have another UFO in mind for it. I've also been working on this year's Hoffman Challenge quilt. I can't post pictures of that yet, so you'll have to be patient. J

Who Would Have Thought!?!

2007-03-17T16:30:00.000-04:00

Who would have thought that I really enjoy working on crazy quilt blocks. I had no idea that I could actually get into this whole beading and hand embroidery thing.

The two blocks to the left belong to two ladies from the yahoo group FabricLoversSwap. A group of us are participating in a round robin with crazy quilt blocks. My addition on the left block is the white heart with beads and the pink stitched seam treatment. My addition on the left block is the heart within a heart and the seam treatment with the red beads.

A Rainbow of Color (Juli L.) - Yellow

2007-03-17T16:27:00.000-04:00

This month's 12x12x12 color is yellow. I experimented with some different types of yarn and couched them onto the top of my quilt.

I've found that I really enjoy making this small quilts. They are a great way to use up scraps, and should hopefully shape up into a really neat project at the end of the year when this particular challenge is over.

Fabric Painting

2007-03-03T13:21:00.000-05:00

Today Zoe, Tessa (Zoe's friend), Tyler and I painted some fabric. Tyler's is still outside drying, but here are pictures of the ones that the rest of us did. We used the Setacolor transparents and then used the sun printing technique. Zoe and Tessa's sun printing items were some of the littlest pet shop animals. From right to left: Tessa's, Zoe's and my paintings.

Fabric Dying Fun!

2007-03-03T13:13:00.000-05:00

The kids and I dyed some fabric about a week ago or so. We had a fantastic time! But boy oh boy were Tyler's (Age 3) hands blue! Zoe (Age 11) ane Tyler painted thier dye on with paint brushes. I did also...the leftover dye was used to immersion dye a couple of fabrics that had been previously dyed. Zoe's piece is the very top of the row of three, followed by two pieces that I painted. The immersion dyed fabrics are in the center picture. Tyler's dye painted fabrics are the two side by side.

My Birthday Quilt: Birthday at the Lodge

2007-02-17T19:08:00.000-05:00

In 2005, I participated in a birthday group from the newsgroup RCTQ. A group of us made one block for the others in the group and sent them out on their birth month. Well, mine is finally done. I opted for a lodge themed quilt.

The picture above is a closeup of the center. It turned out quite nicely. Now just to add a sleeve on the back so I can hang it in my living room.

February 12x12x12

2007-02-17T19:05:00.000-05:00

My February 12x12x12 is done. My journey into color explores Orange this time. I opted to just randomly lay out pieces of orange fabric onto my batting and backing and machine quilt it down. I once again zigzag stitched the edges to give me some "room" when I go to put all of my 12x12x12's together at the end of the year.

Too long...sooo much homework...

2007-01-24T18:44:00.000-05:00

Sheesh! I apologize for the time gap in postings!

I haven't been able to do much in the way of sewing, quilting or fabric painting/dyeing recently. I have been completely overwhelmed with work and course work for the college classes I am taking. Who would've thought that I would be writing so much for Biology...I kind of figured it with my Psychology class, but Biology?!? Oh well, it's well worth it in the grand scheme of things.

That's it for now. =)

January 12x12x12 Revealed: A Rainbow of Color: A Journey into color and technique

2007-01-15T15:50:00.000-05:00

Well, I know some of you have been waiting patiently for this, so here it is. My January 12x12x12 challenge. It may not look like much, but I have a grand plan when all 12 of these are done.

This is the beginning of "The Journey into Red". Doesn't look like much, but boy did it take some time to pick the colors I was looking for.

Here all of the edges are turned under and in their final resting place.

I opted to quilt and embellish at the same time, so these are all machine basted together (back, batting, and top).That is the finished product. I used a Madeira metallic red thread for the embellishment on the seams. I opted to satin stitch the edges with the same metallic thread. I decided not to use a traditional binding to give me more options at the end of the challenge when I put all of my pieces together.This is a closeup of some of the stitching. I know it isn't a very good picture, but hey...I'm no photographer. I used all of those fancy stitches on my sewing machine to embellish the seams. This piece may call to me for further embellishment later on with beads and such...but as of now it hasn't...

A Quick Note

2007-01-09T14:47:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to drop by and let everybody know that we had a fantastic time at Great Wolf Lodge this past weekend. Boy was everybody beat when we got home on Sunday.

I hadn't realized how much work it actually is to chase a 3 year old around a very large indoor waterpark. It turns out, Tyler has no fear...NONE...he ran right into the wave pool without even blinking. Water slides, no big deal. We had to have gone down the water slides at least 50 times before the weekend was over.

My 12x12x12 quilt is complete, just have to get some pictures taken....

Something New...

2007-01-04T20:13:00.000-05:00

Today I spent the day with Aaron walking around the outlet mall in Williamsburg. I splurged on myself and bought a pair of running shoes to fit my running style. Who would've thought that I would buy myself specialized running shoes. This fitness things is for the birds.

We're spending the weekend at Great Wolf Lodge with the kiddos. I'm sure that they are going to have a blast and we'll all come home exhausted.

This evening, I decided to work on my 12x12x12 challenge. Boy is it neat to work in a manner that I haven't really worked before. I had no idea how exciting all of those stitches on my Bernina are. And, I found that Madeira Metallic thread is an absolute dream to work with. The only time my thread broke was if I was going way too fast. So, I just slowed down and didn't have any more frustrations.

No pictures today. I'll keep all of you in suspense until my quilt is finished.

Sandstones and Seashells

2007-01-03T19:12:00.000-05:00

So, as promised, here is my latest batch of hand dyed fabric. These were dyed using a 30 step graduation kit.

This piece has a smattering of all 3 colors used to dye the fabrics above. One thing I learned this time...It is a good idea to place your baggies of fabric and dye (if using baggies to dye in) in a large bowl. Fortunately, I did. Otherwise I would have had blue and purple countertops...

I think they turned out great (at least relative to batch #2). Now, what to do with them...

Jill and Laura's Quilts

2007-01-03T08:03:00.000-05:00

Well, Dad sent me the pictures via email yesterday, so I can post the pictures of the quilts that I gave to Jill and Dan and Laura for Christmas this year.

"Star Struck" was given to my sister Laura. Boy did I want to keep that one for myself. It was made with stars from a swap on about.com with alternating Carrie Nation blocks. It is backed in a black with multi-color spot flannel.

"Bluebirds in My Flower Garden" was given to Jill and Dan. It is a pattern by Pat Sloan. The border fabric has bluebirds sitting on a phone line, hence the name.

Joys of Christmas

2007-01-02T15:37:00.000-05:00

Everybody got lucky this year with gifts of quilty things. Aaron's prodding to get projects done seemed to have helped.

This quilt was made for Jodi. "Football Fantasy" was a joint quilt made with Aaron. It has all of the NFL team logos and is backed with Washington Redskins fleece.

This quilt was made for Cali. "Trump the Deck" came from a set of blocks that I won at a Peninsula Peice Makers guild meeting early last year.

This quilt was made for Frank and Sonny. "Quilted Pleasures" is a gigantic quilt. It just kept growing and growing...

Now, if my Dad will ever email the pictures of the quilts that I forgot to take before sending them off to my sisters, I'll get those posted too.

A First for Fabric Dyeing

2007-01-01T21:07:00.000-05:00

So, I did this a while ago, but who says I can't talk about one of my happiest fabric dyeing moments?

These fabrics turned out absolutely spectacular! And, this was a first try.

Needless to say, I had a second try that didn't turn out so well. Let's just say that all of the fabrics turned out to be a pukey sort of grayish color.

I'll post my third fabric dyeing experience here soon. They turned out pretty well. I did figure out what I did wrong the first time though...I forgot to add the activator after a added the dye solution. OOPS!

A First for Everything

2007-01-01T17:20:00.000-05:00

Well, it's time to move up in the world, so here I am. Welcome to my blog. Here you will find my adventures in quilting and fabric dyeing.