remember your karma

A quilter's confession #1

2012-01-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

I save fabric because I have a fear I am going to ruin it if I cut into it.

Whew! Glad I got that out! I have always loved and feared fresh new art and craft supplies! Nothing scarier than a sharp pencil and a blank piece of paper.

Yes, I purchase beautiful fabrics, fondle them, fold them,

and leave them on my shelf.

I cut some up today, was a bit scary, but the quilt top came together nicely.

These were a variety of batiks in orange, red and fuchsia. Bright, warm, sunny on a grey winter day. Next up, quilting!

Scrap finish #2 Tidal Pool

2012-01-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

I finished this quilt today. Here is "Tidal Pool":

Front

59" x 59"

Back

The second quilt made from scraps from Sargasso (the first one was Neap Tide). I cut these scraps into 2 1/2" strips in a variety of lengths, pieced them end-to-end with a white square between. Then sewed the strips together in the "jelly roll race" method.

I free motion quilted large spiral orbs, inspired by Frances Moore's spiral quilting here.

This quilt makes me think of an underwater environment, and the orbs remind me of sea creatures floating on the currents. I filled in with curlicues.
I started quilting it with my polyester thread, but the Baby Lock doesn't like it, so I picked all those stitches out and went with a beige-pink Affinity variegated thread. Then I had a problem with skipping stitches. I changed needles until it stopped. Then finished up!

Not much going on.....

2012-01-18T09:54:00.002-05:00

I have been "unsewing" some quilting I do not like, so nothing new to post.

I did however just read this awesome interview. I feel the same way, too much fabric paralyzes me. I feel I must use my scraps to "earn" my new fabrics. After reading this, NO MORE!!!

But that is a happy exclamation!

Work in Process

2012-01-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

I have been just playing in my studio. My guild had a scrap exchange and inspired by our speaker, I am making "crazy quilt" blocks out of these scraps.

This will be a long term project. It is nice to have a project to just sew and not have to think too hard about. I made a crazy quilt several years ago. It is always a good way to use scraps, and makes an interesting quilt.

I am also piecing a king-sized quilt for my husband and me (resolution #5). I am using Kaffe Fassett and Brandon Mably fabrics from my stash. This quilt is going together very fast! These bright red/orange/purple fabrics have intimidated me, but I am jumping in and loving the way they all work together. These patterns seem to have a "gypsy" feel to them, I am thinking of call it " My Gypsy Dream".

The patterned white fabric is a beautiful Laura Gunn fabric, also from my stash.

We have been quite busy as my precious mother-in-law is in the hospital. Sewing is taking a back seat to her! But she seems to be doing better, and always asks what I am making.

Working on resolutions 1 and 6

2012-01-12T08:30:00.000-05:00

Here is a new completion that helps with those resolutions (as mentioned here):

It is a scrappy quilt, I just started sewing from my scrap bin and when I changed my mind, I went with it!

It measures 70" by 63". Free-motion quilted using Affinity 50 wt cotton thread.
I used a low-loft polyester batting as a trial. I do not like it but had been asked about using poly batting so I needed to use it so I had a comparison to cotton and wool.

I think it is bright and happy, full of fun fabrics!

Free motion challenge-January

2012-01-07T16:39:00.002-05:00

sewcalgal posted the January installment of the 2012 Free Motion Challenge.

This month the teacher is Frances Moore and she posted a wonderful leaf stitch.

She demonstrated it first as by drawing then by stitching.

I drew it out. And all week long I have drawn it as mu doodles at work!

That repetition helps muscle memory so when I sat down to stitch, I was pleasantly surprised!

I stitched first on a scrap of batik quilt sandwich.

Then again on a muslin sandwich.

I used YLI 40wt. thread in the top and Connecting Threads 50 wt cotton in my bobbin.
I like this design. It meanders around in any direction and I can see using this all over a quilt very easily! This one is going into my personal stitch library.
This is such a great learning experience! I am so looking forward to each month!

What's on my wall 1.5.12

2012-01-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Other than being blind-sided by a massive head cold, 2012 has started out well. As one of my resolutions is to use my stash, I have not 1 but 2 scrap tops in process.

I went through my scrap bin and cut my scraps into 10" squares, 5" squares and 2 1/2" strips. Then I sorted by colors and started getting ideas. That how I work, I fondle the fabric and it tells me what to do!

This first one is the center for a scrappy quilt. I am planning on adding borders and large corner stones to get it out to a nice size.

This second one is really working on me. It is made from scraps from "Sargasso" and it seems this is to be a background for a large applique. The applique hasn't come to me yet, but it will. And yes, this is the 2nd quilt Sargasso scraps have made! Here's the first!

Meanwhile, I am also participating in sewcalgal's Free-motion Challenge. Already feel inspired and looking forward to more.

First finish of 2012

2012-01-03T08:30:00.000-05:00

Here is my first finish of this new year:

It is a commissioned t-shirt quilt for a sweet young lady. It measures 85" by 85". I FMQ-ed it on my mom's long arm.

My husband and I painted my studio on Saturday. I have been rearranging and sorting. I have rediscovered some cool fabrics! Shopping my stash has yielded some good finds. I am anxious to start some new projects.

Happy New Year to you all!

Reflecting and pondering

2011-12-30T23:52:00.000-05:00

As noted in my previous post, I have been reflecting on my quilt accomplishments of the past year. I made a bunch! Most of them have new homes and I hope the are loved.

I have also been reflecting on previous quilting goals and where I stand in achieving those goals.

Previous goals included entering quilt shows (accomplished), selling quilts(done), having an exhibit (did it), publishing a pattern (not done), teaching (yep), taking classes (yes, but want more), joining a guild (took a while but finally did it), learning paper piecing (need to work on this!).

For 2012 here are my tentative goals:

1. Make more quilts for charity

2. Really learn paper piecing

3. Make 1 more Christmas quilt

4. "Do" my studio: paint, decorate, arrange (in process!)

5. Make another King-sized quilt for my bed

6. Make more scrappy quilts

Not a long list, not intimidating. I have been folding my fabrics, as the hubby and I painted my studio, so another goal is: SHOP MY STASH!

I resolve to refrain from buying any more fabric until I make at least 3 quilts/quilted projects. The only purchases I am allowing myself are backings and batting!

Care to share your quilting goals?

And what is a post without a photo? Here is a cute pic of my 2 Mals:

Sarge & Pepper

Happy New Year!!! All the best to you in the coming year!

Relaxing after Christmas

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

The end of the year always seems to generate lots of lists. I have taken a look back at my quilts of 2011 as I get ready to make some quilting goals for 2012.

Here is a collage of my 2011 quilts:

In related quilting accomplishments this year, I taught several classes in free-motion quilting, I have coached a dear friend as she begins her quilting journey (and she is doing very well!), I have had an exhibit of my quilts as well as the quilts of my mom and 2 friends, I was interviewed by both a local radio station and a local magazine about my quilts, I made another quilt which was raffled for a local humane society (and more than doubled last years $$$$!). I sold a few quilts and have done a couple on commission. I still love quilting very much!

I am still pondering what I want to work on next year. What are your quilting goals for 2012?

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-24T10:20:00.002-05:00

Wow!

December has been busy and the past 2 week have been in hyper-drive.

What have I've been doing?

Been to see an awesome Christmas light display.

That included a talking/singing Christmas Tree.

With my sweet hubby!

Watched our gorgeous son graduate from Appalachian State University (yippee!)

Made 3 baby quilts for our nephew's new triplets.

And gifted this quilt to our son's delightful girlfriend.

(Check out his sweet smile)

And it is just now Christmas Eve!

I wish all of you are surrounded by love!

Hand Quilting Lives!

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a beautiful quilt made by a friend for my dear mother-in-law.

A traditional basket pattern, using traditional calicoes.

The kicker? All by hand! Look at those even quilting stitches.

My MIL's friend, Janet made this. She still makes all her quilts by hand. This is such a beautiful treasure, made even more dear by the personal connection to the quilter. And this quilt is just 2 years old.

Hand Quilting LIVES!

Quilt gifting protocol

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

First, thanks to all for their kind words after my previous post. I believe there are many of us that are greatly affected by the lack of sunlight in this winter season. We just need to remember to be kind to ourselves and that Spring is 3 months away!

Are you giving someone a quilt or other hand-made gift for Christmas? Here are a few observations I have for the proper way to do this.

Featuring quilts from my Pinterest board

1. Wrap said gift.

Source: purlbee.com via Kelly on Pinterest

2.Bask in the delight and gratitude.

Source: dreamzhappenquiltz.wordpress.com via Kelly on Pinterest

3. Accept the complements. Yes, you can bashfully grin and say "you are welcome!".

Source: pinkchalkfabrics.com via Kelly on Pinterest

4. DO NOT POINT OUT ANY ERRORS. The recipient does not see them, all they see is the gorgeous quilt, as a whole! If you wanted the quilt to look like it was mass produced by a machine, you should have bought one in a department store. Remember: all of the inconsistencies you see are what adds to the uniqueness and character of this "one-of-a-kind" gift.

Source: meamomblog.com via Kelly on Pinterest

5. Let it go. Yes, you put yourself into the quilt during its creation, but now, you are giving it away. It is theirs. Do not check to see they are using and/or displaying it.

And what to do if you recieve a quilt as a gift?

1. Squeal with delight, after all someone thought enough of you to spend countless hours creating a "one-of-a-kind" gift.

Source: flickr.com via Kelly on Pinterest

2. Tears of gratitude are also acceptable.

3. Hugs, of course!

Source: handmadebyalissa.com via Kelly on Pinterest

4. Follow up with a "Thank You" note. You will have time to compose your thoughts and the quiltmaker will be so happy. Besides, it is good manners.

Source: fairyfacedesigns.blogspot.com via Kelly on Pinterest

5.Use the quilt. They are made for that! Don't fold it up and put it away thinking you are saving it! That invites fold lines that won't come out and irregular fading. Ask the maker about any laundering tips if you are uncertain.

Quilts come to life as they are used.

A bit out of sorts

2011-12-09T07:57:00.001-05:00

I am feeling a bit out of sorts.

I am NOT a "Christmas" person.

This dark time of the year is always really hard on me. On top of this, I have had to go low-carb because of my blood sugar. I guess I am in a bit of denial about that.

I have been making quilts. Quilts are always the best therapy.

3, yes 3, my nephew and his wife recently added triplets to our family! Since they arrived premature, I haven't met them yet, but I want to have their quilts ready for Christmas. I used the same fabric line (Lil' Rascals by Chloe's Closet for Moda). I have made each quilt different. Baby #1 (boy) quilt is a large block alternating with a 4 patch; Baby #2(boy) is a disappearing 9 patch; Baby #3 (girl) is a Twister. These are my last quilts I need to have complete before the 25th and I know I will have no trouble finishing them.
.
I have a commission t-shirt quilt to work on next. Then, I am going to paint my studio/sweatshop. I want to paint it the brightest white I can find to amplify the light. That will make me feel better.

Holiday Eye Candy

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday was the Poinsettia Open House at a nearby nursery ( Mitchell's). Last year was the first time we had been, so we were looking forward to this incredible show of color.

We were NOT disappointed!

White, coral, bright pink.

Speckled, even a cinnamon-scented variety.

Certainly a show of color and a fun afternoon!

A Christmas Gift completion!

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

May I present Danielle's Garden. This is for my son's girlfriend.

62" by 74"

FMQ-ed on my Baby Lock, using Affinity 50wt cotton in top and bobbin.

Personally I think this is my very best quilting ever!

A new tool

2011-12-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

I had ordered the Gidget II table from Day Style Designs and it arrived today.

I opened the box, set up the legs, found the right level for my machine and then got to quilting.

I like it a lot. The quilt glides along with no drag! I moved the other table the machine had been on to the side, with my other table in front to catch the weight of my quilts. The custom acrylic insert will come in about 3 weeks, but I took the legs off my extension table and it is sitting on top, I just could not wait to try it out!

Why haven't I done this sooner?

Free motion thoughts

2011-11-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

And a work in process!

I had this top cut in about 20 minutes, pieced together in about 2 hours. Takes 1 yard each of the large patterns, 3/4 yd each for the sashing patterns.

Now I am quilting (my favorite part!)

The zen of quilting relaxes me. And I begin to ponder.

Who ever said you CAN'T turn your quilt while quilting?

Why? I am quilting this in segments, from center out. And turning as needed to get to unquilted places.

I really like this "doodling" style of quilting. I haven't seen any just like it, so maybe it is my own style developing itself.

No thoughts, no pressures, just letting the quilt speak and come to life.

I am taking the pledge!

2011-11-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

Go see sewcalgal and join! Looks like a great way to learn and improve FMQ throughout the year!

An Asian-inspired finish

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the second of my Asian-inspired quilts:

Measures 46" by 49 1/2"

Free-motion quilted in a wood-grain style. I used a mult-colored YLI cotton quilting thread in earth tones in top and bobbin.

I love the calm, soothing, taupe colors. Again using my Moda cross weave in Natural. I have less than a yard of it left, and haven't found any more. Still looking!

I hope you all, here in the US, have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday and for all my friends around the globe have a great week!

Playing with blocks - quilter style

2011-11-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

I have been playing with some dimensions on some star blocks. I need to make a patriotic block for the Triad Modern Quilt Guild December meeting. We are making a quilt for either "Quilts of Valor" or another organization that serves our veterans. I am also making a patriotic quilt for a fundraiser for next year so this has helped me work out my pattern.

Both blocks were developed by sewing squares together around their outer edges (all 4 sides), then cut diagonally across both corners to create 4 half-square triangles.

The small block has 3" squares, the large block has 3 1/2"squares. Amazing how much difference a 1/2" can make!

Fun and easy, and for a good cause!

On my design wall

2011-11-18T09:58:00.001-05:00

I was traveling for work this week, so very little on the quilting front. I did play a bit last night, and got my 2nd Asian -inspired quilt started.

This uses more of the gorgeous "Natural" Moda Cross Weave yardage I have been hoarding along with a Kofu pack of woven Japanese fabrics I purchased at The City Quilter last month.

It is a soothing project. I am hoping to get some quality sewing time this weekend.

Another completion (I am on a roll!*)

2011-11-14T09:20:00.000-05:00

*But that will come to a slow down! I am traveling for work this week, so no sewing!

I did complete this lovely quilt before leaving town. I call it "Fa Lalala" after the Layer Cake I used, "Fa Lalala" by French General.

Measures 64.5" by 92".

I free-motion quilted on my Baby Lock using Affinity 50wt cotton thread.

I had ordered the layer cake earlier this year, then found the print I used for the border on sale. It happened to be by French General also which meant all the colors blended nicely. The inner border is from my scraps, it was left over from the backing of my king-sized Christmas quilt; the lattice is Kona Snow, which I keep and use for many things!

This is for my son's bed. For next year, I need to make a Christmas quilt for my guest room.

Next up for me are 4 baby quilts (3 for my nephew's brand new triplets(!) and 1 for a co-worker's new granddaughter), my second Asian-inspired wall quilt, and some patriotic blocks for my TMQG meeting in December! The busy-ness for the Holidays is upon me.

Completed

2011-11-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

I just finished with this quilt.

A different direction for me.

I call it "Kyoto". It is 46" by 52.5".

My original pattern. The colored squared are from a batik charm set I bout at the City Quilter. The ground fabric is a Moda Cross-weave I have been hoarding for 2 years. I free-motion quilted in a design to mimic wood grain.

I have more of the cross-weave I am going to use for another Asian-inspired piece using Japanese Taupe wovens I also purchased at the City Quilter. I just need more time!!!

By the way, today is "Veteran's Day" - Thanks to all who have served and who are serving!

It is also my brother's birthday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENT! I love you!

WIP

2011-11-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

On the design wall, a quilt using the "Fa la la la" by French General. I love their stuff!

This is for my son's bed.

Using a new pattern with a neat trick for setting the blocks on point.

I have been very bad.....

2011-11-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

I visited Karen Gray Designs for the first time on Saturday.

It was a gorgeous autumn day, I had been running errands. Barnes & Noble, Michaels, JoAnn Fabrics. Checking out what was new and different, not looking for much, some new magazines.

Ran into some of my TMQG peeps at JoAnn. (Hi Anya and Sarah!)

Sarah mentioned Karen Gray was having a sale.

Now, I was just on my way home, and as a drove near the Reynolda Road exit, I thought I would drop by, see if they were still open. Check it out.

Oh, boy, my first visit, but certainly not my last! I am already looking forward to may next visit!

A bright, cheerful shop. Karen was so nice and friendly! And yes, a SERIOUS sale on excellent fabrics!

And I bought stuff:

Free-Motion Quilting

2011-11-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

When I got into quilting in 2007, I was determined to "do it all myself".

I did not have the $$$ to pay a long-arm quilter to finish for me. I was also drawn to the look of FMQ.

detail of "BowWow" 2009

I dove in. No lifejacket. No one around to teach me. Started free-motion quilting the tops I was finishing. (I am over 100 quilts now!)

Read everything I could get my hands on.

Kept doing it. Ripping out bad stitching (unsewing).

detail of "October Sunset" 2009

Kept sewing. Raced through simple piecing projects just to get to the FMQ.

Then, found a class in 2009. Learned some tricks, received confirmation on some of the tricks I had learned on my on.

detail of "PoppyWood" 2011 - KING SIZED

Kept reading and stitching.

Refining.

detail of "Forest for the Trees" 2011

Started teaching others. (Love teaching!) Kept sewing.

Seems everyone has something they say you "should" do to be successful at FMQ.

detail of "Scrappy Star" 2011 - Queen sized

Here's what I know for sure:

Everyone stitches differently, just like handwriting, your FMQ is unique.

Detail of FMQ practice - November 4, 2011

You must learn your machine, be comfortable making tension adjustments, and keeping it clean.

Nothing takes the place of practice.

Then more practice.

Detail of FMQ practice - November 4, 2011

Keep doing it, keep reading, take classes. You will get better! And I hope, you will grow to love the activity as much as I do!

And feel free to email any questions or concerns to me. I will help you find the answers, and I will cheer you on!

Completed!

2011-11-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

Here is "Shortcake", a small lap quilt I made for our United Fund drive at work.

Measures 50" square, free-motion quilted on my Baby Lock using Affinity 50wt cotton thread.

ALL fabrics from my stash!

Why quilts, as art, in public spaces

2011-11-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

Reasons other than raw beauty!

Dr. Layne McDaniels' quilts in Faculty Office at Appalachian State University

Art in public spaces always seems to generate comment. The very notion of the spaces being intended for general public use means the art needs to appeal to a variety of people and tastes.

Student Union, Appalachian State University

It is also important, in indoor spaces, to take lighting and acoustics into account.

Quilts offer color, texture and perceived comfort. Since they are textiles, they also absorb echos and add to a pleasant environment.

Lately, Barn Quilts have entered our delightful public experience as well. They highlight and celebrate the humble beginnings of traditional quilts, as well as drawing the eye to magnificent barns and landscapes.

Quilts, not just for beds anymore!

Cool link about one of my quilting inspirations

2011-11-01T16:48:00.001-04:00

Denyse Schmidt from the Wall Street Journal

Her book, Denyse Schmidt Quilts: 30 Colorful Quilt and Patchwork Projects, is one of my favorites, for the yummy photos and the awesome "how-tos".

Motivation*

2011-11-01T08:30:00.001-04:00

*quite different from inspiration!

Painting is just another way of keeping a diary. [Picasso]

I have been asked how I get my quilts completed in what seems to be a short period of time. Well, I am a "completer", I have no UFO's {Un-Finished Objects}at the moment, just several quilts in different stages. I like having 1- I am piecing, 1- I am quilting, with one on deck. I have something I can do at any given time, to fill the time I have available. This is my therapy, my relaxation, my expression, my true passion. When I do not have the opportunity to do my quilting, I feel crappy.

At the moment I have just completed a charity quilt for a fund drive at work, I am hand sewing the binding on my "Sargasso", I have the binding of "Phases" ready to hand-stitch and a new quilt top completed, ready to layer and baste. Then, on deck is a Christmas quilt for my son's room. It is how I like to work and it has evolved over time.

That did not answer the question, though.

The important thing is to create. [Picasso]

I have a full-time job, leave the house at 7am, return at 6pm. Most nights, my husband and I walk the dogs, fix dinner, eat, chat, etc. Then I head up to the studio for 1-2 hours. Saturdays are generally errand days, but I like to get 2-3 hours in; Sundays I like to get 2-4 hours in. I usually select fabrics and lay out blocks on the weekends, I have the daylight then. And then I have my projects lined up for the following week.

My husband and I are involved in community and family, they are also a priority.

My quilting, is my gift to myself. When my son was young, I did not have the time for it. I made collages, scrap booked, beaded, did smaller projects that were easy to put down and pick up. My creative urges have always been there and part of my life journey has been exploring the ways to express them. I still sketch, now I sketch quilt layouts and quilting stitch designs.

My quilting is a priority for me. I have to create. I have so many quilts in my head, I need to make them, to get them into the daylight. Perhaps that is just me. The quilts motivate me to make them, to bring them into the world.

finding my style

2011-10-29T08:30:00.000-04:00

Along my journey, I have learned the visual value of "mood" boards. We use them at work as a way of conveying ideas. But when it comes to using one personally, I am a bit lax. I don't like to tear up magazines, if I do, the tear sheets get lost or left in a file that becomes obsolete.

Enter my new tool: pinterest.

I joined out of curiosity. Let it lie not knowing if or when I would really utilize it. Now, I love it. Easy to keep track of things I am drawn to. Becoming easier to discern my aesthetic. Eye candy deluxe!

Phases COMPLETE

2011-10-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

I have been a busy little bee without internet access!

I also have been focused on finishing so I can move on to the other quilts that are in my head!

This is Phases, my own design, mixing Drunkard's Path blocks with plain blocks. Inspired by the changing shape of the moon as it moves through it's phases, thinking of the way life moves, and the phases we go through.

All batiks, FMQ'ed on my Baby Lock. 49" square.

on personal quilting style

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

**this is a rambling post**

As I mentioned in this post, I have been pondering my personal quilting style. Then today, this post brought my own questions more into focus.

I have been consciously focusing on not only what I like, what draws me in, but what I do, how I put things together, how I stitch.

With this in mind, I think my FMQ is a lot like Ann Fahl's. Eclectic, whimsical, free-form. I have tried to stitch in a more formal style like this, but I just can't! My hands, the machine and the quilt tend to take on a will of their own. I am able to appreciate both styles, and learn from both artists.

I like artwork that is multi-layered, with lots of imagery, like collage (love Nick Bantock!). Artwork that has hidden elements (like this dollhouse!) and design that makes me smile (like this). I love it when someone looks at my one of my quilts and sees the stitching designs separate from the piecing.

When it comes to piecing, I enjoy free-form, intuitive piecing, following patterns, using templates. I am drawn to color, but also adore surface patterns (batik and print). I can be inspired by antique quilts, traditional designs, folk art; I love visiting museums and being inspired by the work of other artists.

I do not like to conform to "rules" when it comes to my quilts. I do not want to be put into a box that does not allow me freedom to explore, experiment and evolve. I do like improving my technique and refining my skills.

I guess, while I haven't answered the question of "what is my style", I have clarified a bit. Please share your thoughts!

So, how do I come up with a description of my work?

Sargosso is COMPLETE

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

**well, I am still stitching the binding!**

This is a HUGE quilt. 110" by 108" (I was shooting for square and I am very happy with the outcome!).

all batiks

Pattern from Eleanor Burns, Radiant Star Quilts. Class at my LQS taught by the wonderful Miss Ellen!

cotton thread, top and bobbin

Long arm quilted, free-motion, by ME on my Mom's Gammill, Miss Gertie.

Swirls and waves, to simulate an underwater feel

For my bed. LOVE IT!

Click on the link to see more cool projects!

stuff I have been doing while I wasn't here

2011-10-25T07:03:00.000-04:00

Well the faithful Dell was retired (disconnected,to be donated to Goodwill) and I contributed to the economy by purchasing 2 new laptops, 1 for me, 1 for the hubs. I still need to load my Photoshop Elements software and my Wacom tablet, but I have been rather busy making quilts! Yes, I seam (heheheh) to have gotten my quilting groove back!

I completed the quilting of "Sargasso" (king-sized Radiant Star) on my Mom's long arm this past weekend. I am now in the process of hand-sewing the binding.

I have completed the quilting (on my DSM) of "Phases" (an art quilt) but haven't cut the binding yet. I have also completed the piecing, basted and started quilting on "Shortcake" a donation quilt for my office's United Fund campaign. I still need to add my border to "Nature 1" which is an Asian-inspired wall quilt then baste + quilt.
Sorry for the lack of photos, I also need to hook to my external hard drive and download from my camera! But quite frankly, I would rather be quilting than do all this tech stuff!

Back from business trip

2011-10-20T10:03:00.001-04:00

I made it back from a 3 day trip to our facility in Maine. It had been about 4 years since I had been there and really did not want to go. But, this was the BEST visit! The meetings went well, the travel went well, I LOVED my accommodations (the Brewster Inn), the weather was perfect. Now, I can't wait for my return visit in April.

But, upon awakening this morning, I discovered our home PC had a screen full of error messages. I did a shut down/reboot only to hear a scratching-squealing noise coming from the hard drive. It is fully apparent to me, our long-suffering Dell has crossed the bridge. Rest in Peace, old friend.

Work in process, quilt wise: Quilting on Mom's long-arm "Sargasso"- my 120" inch square Radiant Star; also quilting (on my machine) "Phases"- a wall quilt, piecing "Natural 1" an Asian-inspired wall quilt. On deck for piecing, a Christmas quilt using "Fa la la la" by French General Layer Cake.

So, I am posting from work. That means limited pictures and postings. I am sharing some eye candy I have discovered out in Internet Land. Enjoy!

My new quilting-crush is here! Love this quilt!

Found this awesome inspiration blog. Why has it taken me so long?

After reading this post and this post, I am wondering, what is my style? Please leave a comment and let me know what you think. At this point, I feel I am more of a quilt explorer!

Here's my Quilt Candy board on Pinterest. I really dig colors and their interplay with each other and the light.

Meanwhile, I will be doing my part to contribute to our economy by purchasing a new computer. Actually 2, since I am getting one for my hubs as well. Piece On!

A Halloween Quickie!

2011-10-15T10:11:00.001-04:00

I found a cute FQ bundle and used the panel included to make this little quilt. Yep, I added the jack o'lantern. I made him out of scraps and machine appliqued it all together. I thought the panel needed a little something.

I FMQ-ed around the shapes and squiggled in the background. I actually have more Halloween fabric and an awesome retro panel, but I need more time to make all that happen.

I am traveling again this coming week so my sewing time is again limited. I will be in Maine and look forward to seeing the beautiful fall colors!

Neap Tide - completed!

2011-10-14T08:30:00.000-04:00

When life gives you scraps, because you made a mistake, use them to make a quilt!

The heap of mis-sewn and mis-cut fabrics that broke my spirit were conquered and became this!

Why do scraps liberate me? Why will I take chances with them? How can I apply this freedom to all my quilt-making?

More Carol Taylor

2011-10-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

Permission to photograph was granted at gallery

I love "The City Quilter". I try to visit every time I am in NYC. Such a great LQS!

Great fabrics. Prints, batiks, panels, felt, patterns, books.

And now that they have expanded, more of that, plus gallery space! Awesome!

It was truly a treat to see these quilts up close. Here is an example of "direct" inspiration. By that, I mean, I want to make more quilts!

Finding inspiration

2011-10-10T08:30:00.000-04:00

Last week I was in New York for a week-long project with my company. For the past 3 years, we have gathered to research, discuss and discern what we see as trends to create a presentation for our customers. Part of this activity is to visit exhibits for inspiration.

This lead me to ponder inspiration. Where we find it, what we do with it.

Not all inspiration is direct, that is, I see lots of blue, therefore I use lots of blue. Some inspiration is indirect and that is what I want to discuss.

One of the exhibits we visited was an exhibition of Nick Cave's Soundsuits at the Jack Shainman Gallery.

Upon first glance, some might think this is a strange inspiration for a quilter.

But look closer, at the details. The ideas behind this art is profound, and the execution is flawless. Thousands, upon thousands of matched buttons, hand sewn onto each suit. Shades flowing into shade. Different thread colors grouped together. Yarn sewn into bunny-suits.

Permission to photograph was granted at gallery

How does this inspire me? Well, it inspires me to think big, and to be fearless. It inspires me to create from the gut, not worrying about how others interpret my work. It really inspires me to put the ideas that have lingered on the edge of my consciousness into fabric form.

Mid-week peek!

2011-10-05T13:26:00.000-04:00

Lucky me! When I dashed into the City Quilter yesterday, not only was I amazed at their newly expanded space, I was delighted by their exhibit of art quilts by Carol Taylor! The show is:

“Explosions of Color” at the ArtQuilt Gallery, NYC

The show opened on Sept 8, 2011 exhibiting 37 of her quilts on display.
It will run until October 29, 2011. The gallery is located at 133 West. 25th St. NY, NY.

AWESOME!!!!! More pix to come! I can not wait to get home to SEW!!!!!

Dixie Classic Fair time

2011-10-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Dixie Classic Fair has always been one of my favorite Autumn activities. Living here in Winston-Salem again means I get to enjoy it again!

My son and his delightful girlfriend came to visit and we went to the fair Friday night.

Not surprising, I visited the quilts on display, here are my faves:

This wall quilt was so cute!

As I mentioned before, I am in NYC for work all next week, so no quilting for me. I hope to refill my inspiration bank.

When will all the busy-ness end?

2011-09-29T09:35:00.000-04:00

I know, some complain about about the mundane, boring lives they lead. I, too, can feel blah (especially in February when the grey winter skies, the lack of sunlight and the cold weather makes me feel like sleeping through til April), but the endless engagements of September and October have me breathless! At least I have gotten in a bit of sewing. I am quilting this top, but since I am traveling for work all next week, I do not anticipate a finish for a while.

So, to keep you inspired, here are some beauties I have encountered on the web:

Love this African quilt!
Family heirlooms finding a new family.
I love this modern quilt!
Feeling a little flowery over this one, too!
No, I didn't translate it, I just drooled over the pictures!
Awesome Free-motion quilting!
Great calendar for quilters who love men and burritos!
I am going to make a version of this. Love the colors and simplicity!

I AM visiting the City Quilter in NYC next week as well as attending 3 museum tours (Nick Cave Soundsuits, Daphne Guinness at FIT, Japan's Textile Pioneers), so I will share.

October is stacking up to be just as busy as September as I get back from NYC and then travel to our factory in Maine the week of the 17th. November has me in Nashville for the Healthcare Design conference. May next February will not be a boring month, but a resting month!

Flimsy done

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

Don't you just hate sneak previews?

Hehe!

Got my "Radiant Star" top done. Just need backing and then I can quilt it! This is big, a full 108" square for my king bed.

I constructed the center star using Eleanor Burns' Radiant Star Quilts book/pattern. The borders are my own design. This is for me and my hubs!

In other news:
I taught my Free Motion Beginners Class on Saturday. I had 8 FANTASTIC students! This may have been my best class ever! Everyone's machines were humming along and everyone had smiles on their faces. I even got hugs! I changed up the class a bit, covering a lot of info before I had everyone sew. We had tons of excellent questions and everyone was engaged. Really a great day!

Completed baby quilt

2011-09-23T08:02:00.001-04:00

49" x 57"

I got this cutie quilted on Sunday afternoon. My sweet hubby needs it for a colleague who's wife is expecting. This is from two 21/2" strip sets from JoAnn's. Each set only had 20 strips, and both were in the clearance bin. But I like the bright colors and you know I love "orange".

I FMQ'ed it in my loopy-loops and machined the binding.

I love our arrangement: (he) "I need a baby quilt for a friend" (me)" guess I need to buy more fabric".

Win-win!

Autum Eye Candy

2011-09-22T08:30:00.000-04:00

Seasonal fruit here in NC, persimmons!

I love the color! (Shot at the Stokes County Fair)

Star Status report

2011-09-20T08:30:00.000-04:00

Previous posts on this quilt are here, here and here.

After a shaky start, then re-cutting, I am at this point:

Yes, that is a large star laying on my floor! Correction: laying FLAT on my floor!

This star has a tendency to "lump" in the center, with the angles and bias that is no surprise. Once I got the setting triangles and squares on, I put it on the floor and got the iron. And I steamed it into submission! It is still laying on the floor so it can dry thoroughly with no distortion.

Last class to come we will be working on borders. Pretty, isn't it?

1/4" from the edge - exhibit pix

2011-09-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

Here are pix from the exhibition at Historic Bethabara Park.

We had so many WONDERFUL visitors!

Quilters, future-quilters, quilt-lovers, friends and family came!

I gave my talk 2 times. So many positive vibes!

My Mom's most recent quilt "Purple Haze"

Now I am tired and plan to spend a quiet day, sewing!

1/4" from the Edge

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

So, I was approached in May about exhibiting my quilts in a local venue.

Said, YES! Because I adore sharing my love of quilts. Shainghai'ed my mom and 2 friends into letting me show theirs as well. (Thanks Kim and Ellen!)

Mom helped me hang the quilts on Monday. We were interviewed on local radio Wednesday morning and have a photo shoot/magazine interview on Friday.

Saturday is the Apple Fest at Historic Bethabara Park in Winston-Salem.

See where this is going?

Yup, the quilts are hanging in the visitors' center. And on Saturday, I am giving 2 short talks about modern quilting methods. I will be there all day as well (10:30 to 4:30) to answer questions and talk to visitors about quilts.

Come see the quilts, enjoy the Apple Fest activities and lets talk quilts!

this is so freaking fun!

I made a little collage of some of the quilts:

When life gives you scraps...

2011-09-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

Remember this?

Well, yes, I had to redo, but my mistake strips were not wasted.

Here is what they are becoming!:

Loving it!