TGIFF stands for Thank Goodness it’s Finished Friday! There are a multitude of bloggers that take turns each week hosting TGIFF and this week it’s my turn.
Sometime before Christmas, I taught a class on making a Retreat Bag. The pattern is free from Emmaline Bags . I used an older Island Batik fabric. When I taught the class, I had forgotten to quilt the fabric first. I had used a scrap of Hobbs 80/20 batting and no interfacing. The result is a bit of a limp bag, but it’s still beautiful and will hold a lot of stuff. This is the large size with the wires inserted. I also used the same outside fabric for my pockets because I want to be able to see them! If you look closely at the first picture, you can see that 2 daffodils are budding. Spring is on it’s way!
Link Party
Join the Party and show us what you have FINISHED this week!
I received “Heavy Metal” by Kathy Engle (for Swan Amity Studios) in my January Island Batik box!! This fabric will be shipping to shops in February. This is the fantastic fabric I used for the Log Cabin Blog Hop!
I searched for a pattern that I had on paper and couldn’t find it. I went to EQ8 and downloaded the Heavy Metal SKUs into the fabric portion and started designing various log cabins. I designed this quilt. It’s a based on the courthouse block, with the fabrics placed so that it spirals. Sort of fun, eh?
Spiral Logs
This quilt used every fabric in the collection. So, I started cutting and sewing. I attempted to keep the fabrics in some order so that each block would be totally unique. I surprised myself by doing it! There are 20 fabrics in the collection and of the coloured fabrics, each one is in the centre of each block.
This one is called “Spiral Logs.” The quilting was simple: wavy lines along each of the logs.
I will give a tutorial on how to make the diagonal backing in a future post.
Once I had the blocks up on the design wall for the spiral log cabin and I was ready to web the quilt, I found the sketch of the pattern I had been working on YEARS ago. I stopped in my tracks and designed the block in EQ8. I was a happy camper. Yes, I knew that this would give me 2 quilts, but I can live with that!
I’ve called the second one “Pinwheel” Logs. All of the strips are cut at 2 1/2” wide and finish at 2″ in the quilt.
Here’s a picture from EQ8 of the designed block with Heavy Metal fabrics inserted. The block is 16″ x 16″.
I started by making 48 half square triangles. Then coloured fabrics were cut in groups of 3 at
Emily chose “Triangles.” It’s totally up to you how you make your triangles, what size they are and how you want to arrange them.
My triangles were cut with my Accuquilt 8″ Cube die. They were 2 1/2” and finish at 2″ in the quilt. The triangles fit perfectly across the top and bottom, but were a little shy on the sides. I didn’t want to fudge like I did with the piano keys because then I would loose my points. So, I just added a little sliver of background on each end of the triangle row … and now they sort-of fit.
Here is the 3rd Round.
January 15: I hosted the first linky party and you can see them all HERE.
March 18: Parade: showing all of your finished SAHRRs!
Other Participants
These are the SAHRR in progress by those who do not blog or have IG. The images must be sent to me by midnight on Saturday to make it into my blog post.
I’m loving the variety of each of these SAHRRs in progress. They are each so different! Awesome!
Judy B., Robin B., Stella, Kathy R., Donna R #2, Donna R #3, Heather F., Jacomina, Rosie, Donna R #1, Kathy P.
We have Sponsors!
We reached out to several companies that we all LOVE and many of them agreed to sponsor the SAHRR 2024!!! We will keep track of all of the participants that link to our Linky parties each week. We will make a list and use a random number generator to choose the winners for each prize! So, if you link up to 3 Linky parties, you will have 3 opportunities to win!
I’m excited to be chosen as an Island Batik ambassador for the 6th year! As an Island Batik Ambassador, I receive 2 shipments from Island Batik; one in January and the other in June/July. This is my unboxing video for the first box. I had to open the box prior to bringing it across the border, but I didn’t see all the contents until I did the video. Enjoy!
Here are individual pictures of everything!
This 2 1/2” strip set of Lavandin came paired with a 2 yard cut of Milk Shake (the off white from the Neutrals collection) and Turtle (the dark green, from the Glorious Greens gradation collection).
These 1/2 yard cuts are from the basics which are available at all times.
Thistle (Playful Purples)
Red Solid (Solids)
Marble-Aqua (Blenders)
Dark Grey (Solids)
Cobalt (Solids)
Bubbles-Cherry (Blenders)
Fuchsia (Solids)
Marble-Purple (Blenders)
Buff (Ravishing Reds)
Marble-Storm (Blenders)
Wave (Brilliant Blues)
Blueberry (Brilliant Blues)
This is an awesome neutral fabric! It is called “Almond” and the tiny bluish and purple dots will blend in with everything I received! I’m positive that this 6 yard piece will be used in the near future!
A Strip pack of Playful Purples … (2 1/2” strips, width of fabric, 2 of each of the 20 different fabrics)
This 10″ stack of “Naturally Neutrals” will come in handy!! It’s fun to have a little of each of the neutrals!
This bundle of solid Black, White and Grey will be used in many different projects!
Stash builder rolls are so much fun. There are 5 rolls in each package. Each roll consists of 4 width of fabric 5″ strips. They are so versatile and are fun to give as gifts! And, I use them too!
This is a group of 1/2 yard cuts from the “Heavy Metal” collection. It was Designed by Kathy Engle for Swan Amity Studios (Swan Sheridan). There are also a 2 yard cut of Gears-Purple Hyacinth and 2 yards of Circle Gears-White (both from the collection). I will be using this in my February Blog Hop.
This surprise package will be used in the May Blog Hop. You’ll have to wait to see what it contains.
One of Island Batik’s Industry partners is Deb Tucker from Studio 180 Designs. She provided each of us with a special tool. I received the “Tucker Trimmer I” and a “Magic Wand.” I will be using these tools, along with the 10” stack of Squiggles, Dots and Lines. This stack came paired with a 2 yard cut of Midnight Blue (the dark blue on the left) and Bluebelle (the light blue). Both of these are basics from the Brilliant Blues collection (always available).
Hobbs Batting. A Queen size batt of 80/20!! A perfect batting for almost every project!
Schmetz Needles – lots of quality needles with charts and a booklet to assist in knowing which needle to use!
Here’s a picture of everything together!
One thing that I didn’t mention in my video was that Funky Friends will be an industry partner this year as well. I will be making Taylor the Tiger!
Thank you!
I would like to thank Island Batik and the industry partners who supplied all of the products in this post free of charge! I feel extremely blessed to be an Island Batik Ambassador for 2024!
For the SAHRR ’24, I am using Island Batik fabrics: a 10″ stack of Limerick in addition to “Teal”, “Egg Shell” and “Cherio-Iris.”
Round #2 is hosted by Anja @ Anja Quilts. Anja chose “2 colours.” That’s correct, 2 colours. You can choose any 2 colours you want, make whatever blocks you want. The choice is totally yours!
I chose to make piano keys using teal and purple. The teal and the white/teal are from Limerick, the purple is a blender called “Cherio-Iris.” (I don’t consider white a colour! LOL!!!)
The piano keys were cut 2″ x 5″ and finish at 1 1/2” x 4 1/2” in the quilt. The piano keys on the sides were about 1/2” too long, so I made 3 of the seams about 1/8” thicker and then it fit like a dream.
Here is the 2nd Round. It finishes at 36″ x 40″.
January 15: I hosted the first linky party and you can see them all HERE.
March 18: Parade: showing all of your finished SAHRRs!
Other Participants
These are the SAHRR in progress by those who do not blog or have IG. The images must be sent to me by midnight on Saturday to make it into my blog post.
Kathy P (first block), Heather F, Jacomina, Kathy R, Robin, Judy B., Regina #1 original, Regina #2 alternative, Rosie in Oregon, Donna R #1, Donna R #2, Donna R #3.
And Kathy P sent me her finished quilt from last year’s SAHRR.
We have Sponsors!
We reached out to several companies that we all LOVE and many of them agreed to sponsor the SAHRR 2024!!! We will keep track of all of the participants that link to our Linky parties each week. We will make a list and use a random number generator to choose the winners for each prize! So, if you link up to 3 Linky parties, you will have 3 opportunities to win!
January’s colour is GREEN!!! Here is my January block. Visit Jen at Patterns by Jen to get your free pattern for January. Hurry, because you’ll have to pay for January’s block if you wait until the month is over!
I’m using Island Batik fabrics for my blocks. Here’s January’s
SAHRR Round #1 is almost done … ready for Round #2!
The hosts have shown their centre blocks and other’s have joined in on the fun. See This Post for all the details! Here’s my centre block with the first round! Visit Wendy @ Pieceful Thoughts of My Quilting Life to see lots of other Round #1.
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
Of course, with being away and not taking my sewing machine with me, my numbers decreased a LOT! That’s OK … the percentage is bound to increase – as long as I don’t go on holidays again! 😁
IB February (a couple of pictures – works in progress!)
Quilting:
2023Fall Mystery Quilt” (waiting for the backing)
Finish Quilting “Gardenia“
Sunday Stash
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
No shopping, so nothing new bought!
I did finish my White Rabbit (bunny hugs) quilt. 6 1/2 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 8 1/2 yards from non-IB: 5
Fabric Used this week: 6 1/2 yards
Fabric Added this year: 4 yards
Net Fabric used: 41/2 yards
To Do
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
To Do from the last report:
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt” not done (still waiting on backing)
Continue to work on SAHRR ’24 in progress
Finish White Rabbit project. √ DONE. and posted
Finish Quilting “Gardenia“ not done
Work on IB February project in progress
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √ DONE
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.√ DONE.
To Do for next week:
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Continue to work on SAHRR ’24 (rounds 3 & 4)
Finish Quilting “Gardenia“
Work on IB February project
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
This week, I managed to finish this quilt in time for the White Rabbit Blog Hop. The weather has been raining and pouring and raining, not to mention the snow that we had, so I have not been able to take a picture of it outdoors. A picture on my design wall will have to do.
I used Island Batik’s “Baby Bloomers” collection along with some Porcelain Fireside to add texture to the bunnies. Hobbs 80/20 is in the middle. The quilting was a simple walking foot straight line along with stippling in the dark purple areas. I must admit, I really enjoyed making this quilt! To find links to all of the White Rabbit bloggers, go to THIS POST.
I was featured
Wednesday Wait Loss
Jennifer from Wednesday Wait Loss @ Inquiring Quilter featured this little quilt:
That’s right, my husband and I ran away. It was a spur of the moment trip. It started with an idea, it fell into place and away we went.
We went to Hawaii’s Big Island. Compared to all of the other Hawaiian islands – it got it’s name for a reason!
The weather was OK … not good for snorkeling, but a lot warmer than here at home! We explored a lot of places, walked a lot of beaches, saw some sun, some rain and some wind. And, I visited 2 quilt stores. I’d say that was a fun thing to do when it’s raining out!
The first store we visited was Quilt Passions in Kona. It was FULL of fabulous eye candy and lots of Island Batik fabrics!
While in the the store, I met Steve. He showed me a few nifty notions. See the blue scissor holder on the end of his featherweight? That is “Annie’s Tool.” She’s 11 years old and makes them, using a 3D printer.
Then we went to Kilauea Kreations in Hilo. A smaller store, but friendly and bursting at the seams will all sorts of goodness.
While in these 2 stores, I bought a few yards of fabric and some patterns. So much for my “I’m NOT buying any fabric” mantra!
Sea Cookies – Teal Cool
Floral – Multi Green
Blender: Lg Wheat Leaves (and the rest of the tag was cut off)
A Finish
Just before we left, I did manage to add the binding and finish this Christmas Countdown! It is a free pattern from Helen Godden Quilts and there are Youtube videos to help you do the quilting. My sister and I Zoom quilted and did this together, after the holidays. I used Island Batik solid white for the base, outlined the bobbles and ribbon with Sharpie Stained markers. Hobbs 80/20 batting is in the middle. It’s quilted with Aurifil Black (Bobbles), Red (Ribbon), White (stippling), and a Green (binding). The bobbles and ribbon were coloured with Inktense pencils and I used Aloe Vera gel to set the colours. This is now destined to one of the Christmas boxes and will appear next December.
In July, my Island Batik box contained a surprise package of Celtic Fields by Kathy Engle. It came with Doughnut (the neutral, on the left) and Celtic Mini Knot Red-B (from the Celtic Fields collection, on the right). I used some of the fabrics from this collection to make the 2 Take a Stand bags (see HERE) (I was given extra for this) and I still had the 1/2 yard cut of the collection. It was the perfect collection for a Turkey Trot Blog Hop where I chose to feature fall fabrics.
I used the Hunter’s Star Accuquilt die to cut out all the pieces for this quilt. There wasn’t enough of the ‘Doughnut’ neutral for this, so I added several other Island Batik neutrals to the mix. Some were unlabelled small pieces, but larger pieces of Snow and Egg White were added in.
My intent WAS to make a scrappy Hunter’s Star quilt. Then, when I was dividing the blocks up by colour, it emerged into this:
I decided to border 2 sides of the quilt with “Large Netting Pineneedle” (dark green) and the other 2 sides with Celtic Mini Knot Red-B (from the collection).
My quilting friends decided that I should call it “Disappearing Hunter’s Star.” But, since the Hunter’s star block wasn’t actually cut (like most disappearing blocks), it has morphed into “Vanishing Hunter’s Star.” That’s it’s official name now.
Quilt Stats:
Size: 65″ x 75″
Fabric collection: Island Batik Celtic Fields, Doughnut and various neutrals
Binding: Island Batik “Doughnut”
Pieced with Aurifil #2600 (Dove)
Quilted with Glide Shell using Silly Moon Rulers: Drop & Rocket for the blocks and 6″ Beanie on the border.
Batting: Hobbs 80/20
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –November: 316 / 333
December: 24 / 24
Total: 335 / 357
Percentage: 93%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
The Vanishing Hunter’s Star used 14 yards of fabric.
Yearly Total:
Fabric Used since the last report: 14 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 254 yards from non-IB: 105
Fabric Bought this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added this year: 37 yards
Net Fabric used: 218 yards
Just an FYI: I do not count any fabric that is given to me (Island Batik), but this year, I am going to count it as fabric used.
To Do Tuesday
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
To Do List from Last Week
Finish Quilting and Binding “Not a Hunter’s Star“ ”Vanishing Hunter’s Star“. √ DONE
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt” not done
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.
Design Wall
Judy, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week. Sorry, no pictures to share!
Piecing projects:
Island Batik “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt”
SAHRR ’24 (yes, I’ve started!)
Plan White Rabbit Blog Hop Quilt
Quilting:
“2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Finish Quilting “Gardenia“
Here’s a picture of Gardenia prior to being a flimsy and partially quilted. This was started in February. It’s hard to say if it will be totally done before the end of the year.
First, I want to show you a secret quilt I was working on earlier this summer and it no longer needs to be a secret. In my July Island Batik box, I received a 2 1/2” strip set of “Pin Dot Floral,” a signature collection by Kathy Engle for Megan Best of Bestquilter. It was paired with a 2 yard piece of Azure (from Brilliant Blues) and a 2 yard piece of Icicle (from Tantalizing Teals). How lucky was I???? So VERY VERY lucky! I immediately knew what I would make with this strip pack!
It’s a lone star that is loosely based on a Youtube video by Jordan’s Fabrics, but of course, I did my own thing. You can watch the video HERE. This quilt takes a LONG time for me to piece because Every. Single. Intersection. needs to be measured and pinned. But, it is worth it in the end!
Here’s a couple of photos of me using “Charming” a Silly Moon ruler to make arcs on all of the pieces.
The large flowers in the corners, and the smaller ones in the ‘v’s were quilted using 2 different “Drop” rulers (Silly Moon). I used “Kite” in the Azure border. Then a flange binding finished the quilt!! I’m in LOVE with this quilt. And I’m keeping it!
It is 62″ x 62″. I used Aurifil #5007 (light grey blue) for the piecing and quilting. Hobbs 80/20 is in the middle.
Here’s a list of a few of the places you can get Pin Dot Floral:
Creekside Quilts – OR
Hancocks of Paducah, KY
Quilter’s Cove, OR
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –November: 316 / 333
December: 12 / 17
Total: 328 / 350
Percentage: 93%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
Last week, I told you that I might buy some fabric when I was in California. On the left is 4 yards of Porcelain fireside that I bought at Essem Fabrics (here at home) to back a few quilts. Rosie’s Calico Cupboard was dangerous! The fun sewing machine fabric was too fun to resist (1/2 yard) and same with the cardinals (3 yards)! On the right is Island Batik fabrics: 4 yards of “Egg Shell” and below that is 4 yards of “Flour.”
Yearly Total:
Fabric Used since the last report: 8 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 241 yards from non-IB: 101
Fabric Bought this week: 15.5
Fabric Added this year: 37 yards
Net Fabric used: 204 yards
Just an FYI: I do not count any fabric that is given to me (Island Batik), but this year, I am going to count it as fabric used.
To Do Tuesday
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
I was away for several days, so not a lot got done.
The To Do List from last week:
Finish Quilting and Binding “Not a Hunter’s Star“ not done – in progress
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt” not done
Piece “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt” quilt. not done – in progress
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √ DONE
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.√ DONE.
This week’s To Do List (same as last week)
Finish Quilting and Binding “Not a Hunter’s Star“
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Piece “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt” quilt
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.
Design Wall
Judy, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week. Sorry, no pictures to share!
Piecing projects:
Island Batik “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt”
SAHRR (yes, it’s happening again in ’24 – I’ll be posting about it in a couple of days!)
Quilting:
“Not a Hunter’s Star”
“2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Here’s a couple of pictures of me quilting the “Not a Hunter’s Star” on my domestic machine.
I’m writing this blog post ahead of time. I’ll be in Southern California when this goes live.
Christmas Countdown
I told you about this project a few weeks ago. I have downloaded the pattern and that’s as far as it’s gone. I will likely work on it between Christmas and New Years. If you want to join, you can access the free pattern HERE. All of quilting directions are on Helen’s Youtube videos.
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –November: 316 / 333
December: 7 / 10
Total: 323 / 343
Percentage: 94%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
As I write this, I have not bought any fabric, but I am in California with my sister and visiting a few quilt stores, so I might be changing some numbers next week!
I’ve finished some projects in the last few weeks: (Placemats & napkins: 9 yards, Tree Skirt: 7 yards, Classic Car Colour Challenge: 9 yards)
Yearly Tally:
Fabric Used since the last report: 0 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 233 yards from non-IB: 101
Fabric Bought this week: 0
Fabric Added this year: 21.5 yards
Net Fabric used: 211.5 yards
Just an FYI: I do not count any fabric that is given to me (Island Batik), but this year, I am going to count it as fabric used.
To Do Tuesday
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
After looking at my list, I realized that I STILL had NOT cut out my Malted Mystery fabrics … and the cutting directions came out in July, I decided to put the fabrics back in my stash. It obviously is not a priority for me at the moment and hasn’t been for several months. I had good intentions, but I have enough on my plate for the time being. Thus Malted Mystery is now striked off my list.
The To Dolist from a few weeks ago:
Quilt and Bind “Turkey Trot” project … now renamed “Not a Hunter’s Star“ partially done. Quilting in progress.
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt”.Not done
Finish IB December Challenge.√ DONE.
Start Christmas blog hop challenge. √ DONE.
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023 Classic Car Monthly Colour Challenge.”√ DONE.
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √ DONE
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.√ DONE.
This week’s list:
Finish Quilting and Binding “Not a Hunter’s Star“
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Piece “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt” quilt
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.
Design Wall
Judy, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week. Sorry, no pictures to share!
December’s Island Batik challenge is to “Select a holiday that holds special meaning for you, such as Halloween, Christmas, Diwali, Thanksgiving, Easter etc. and make a project of any kind.”
Here’s my story:
When we went to Newfoundland in August, my niece and her fiancé graciously took us to the East Coast Quilt Company in St. John’s. As they waited for me, sitting on this fabulous sofa, I told them to look through the book I was buying (The Quilted Stash) to see if there was anything they wanted.
They chose the dark blue tree skirt (photo on the right) … and the pattern was not in the book! No fear, it was early in our trip and I knew I’d be visiting a few more quilt stores. I looked for the pattern, but with no luck. After I got home, I looked on-line and the stores I searched were sold out.
That’s no problem!!! I figured I could use some of the appliqué designs in the book, add a few others and the tree skirt could happen. (As it turned out, I used none of the designs in the book!)
The extra bonus (for me) was that Island Batik’s December challenge was to create something inspired by my chosen holiday!!! The inspiration was Christmas and the dark blue tree skirt.
Elements of the Tree Skirt
The reindeer and the sleigh were cut with the Accuquilt die “Go Sleigh & Snowflakes. ” The trees were cut with the Go! Holiday Medley.
A simple zigzag outlined the sleigh and reindeer, while a stitch with intermittent stars outlined the trees.
I found a free colouring book page of some Jellybean Row Houses (famous in St. John’s) here. I simplified the page and made a row of 5 houses. Here is a couple of pictures of some of the actual Jellybean Row Houses, followed by my 5 houses.
Some of the family ancestors were fishermen. My husband fondly remembers many fishing days in a small dory.
The dory was from a Row by Row from Fibre Lily in 2017. I finished the Row by Row in July ’22 and you can read about it HERE.
Many older houses in Newfoundland are called “Salt Box Houses.” I found a colouring picture of one HERE.
The rugged coast of Newfoundland has many lighthouses! The lighthouse is a simplified and smaller version of one I designed in 2019.
Here is the tree skirt, prior to the applique, with snowflakes I decided to not use. The skirt was spray basted onto black 80/20 Hobbs Batting … and then the appliqué began.
The first picture shows a tree mid-appliqué. The garland was stitched first, and then the outline. The stars were quilted using the smallest “Twinkle” ruler from Silly Moon Quilt Company.
The Tree Skirt
Here it is on the design wall, before we took it for a photo shoot.
The photo shoot was a bit of a bust. We went to a nursery that has tons of trees, but it was hard to get pictures with the trees squashed together. Then we went to a hardware store, and again, it wasn’t easy. Most of the trees had huge cones around them. I have a geranium still blooming and it worked for the centre, as well as the shrub. I refuse to dig out my own Christmas tree until later in the month, so, it will have to wait until it travels across the country and arrives at it’s destination!
Tree Skirt Stats:
Size: 52″ diameter
Fabrics:
All Fabrics were from Island Batik: The tree skirt body was cut out with 18o wedges and was made with “Ravine.” I love the mottled dark blue/navy. The reindeer and trees were from “Celtic Fields.” The sleigh was from a 10″ square from the “Cheers” collection. The rest of the elements were from my Island Batik scrap box. The binding is “Ice” … I had to chuckle at the name of the fabric as it was perfect for the binding and very typical of Newfoundland winters!
the ability to produce or use original and unusual ideas
This certainly applies to quilting. I see this a lot with some of my classes or original patterns. Different people will choose different fabrics or place them in alternative ways. It always fascinates me and I am in awe of what people do!
I remember years ago, I was teaching a class at the guild and one participant approached me and asked, “Is it OK if I make the quilt bigger?” of course, YES! Then, “Is it OK if I have it off centre?” of course, YES! I love that people can view my classes as a starting point for creating something new!
As I was looking up the official definition of creativity, this statement caught my eye, “Too many rules might deaden creativity.“ Well, “duh” I thought:” “That’s why the quilt police have no business being anywhere around anyone who is quilting!”
OK … so what does this have to do with working on my PHD or getting those UFOs done and gone … or simply gone?
I want you to think 2 things about your UFOs … are they UFO’s because you don’t think they measure up to the ‘rules?’ Are they UFOs because they lack the creativity they once sparked?
Quilting is a journey. One where you are always learning. ALWAYS. So, if there is a ‘rule’ that is impossible to conquer … ignore it, and carry on, doing your best. Just to be honest here, I’ve been quilting for YEARS … and I’m still working on getting my points to match, getting those seams to nest nicely … I’m a work in progress. Those who have taken classes from me will be laughing … I’m sure they can hear me saying similar things!
Now, about that UFO that lacks creativity that it once sparked … Why? what’s gone wrong? Is it really that bad? If it is – give it away. OR … are you just bored with it? Will a few hours of work on it help get it done? If so … do that!
We have ONE month left to complete our PHD in 2023!
BIG Announcement
When I started the PHD in 2018, I had more than 56 UFOs. I know there was many more, because my original post (HERE) about this mentioned 29 more: which means there was at least 85. And I know I found even more as I moved into my sewing studio and open every single box, carton and container!
When I first started, the idea was to finish HALF of your UFOs in the year. I must have been crazy!!! The only way to do that is to not start a single new project and to work 24 hours a day. Impossible!
Later, I decided that 1 UFO a month was reasonable, along with finishing EVERY. SINGLE. START. I know that stopped me (sometimes) from starting every new project that caught my eye!
And this brings me to the current state of my UFOs … after this month, I will have 3 UFOs to complete. That’s not enough to carry on with the PHD in 2024.
PHD in 6 years has worked for me to get my projects under control! I know that I finished most of them, but I also put a few on the ‘free’ table at the guild.
So … is there someone in blog land that would like to do the PHD in 2024? Let me know!!! (quiltinggail@yahoo.ca)
Did you try this?
This is what I wrote before: Leanne, of Devoted Quilter is hosting a WIPS-B-Gone ’23 challenge. This runs from October 1 to November 30th. WIPS is Works in Progress. And, for my PHD in 2023, I want them Gone.
This has worked well for me as far as tidying/cleaning my sewing space! The only days I didn’t do the cleaning was when I was away at a retreat. Sewing each day was easy. And several WIPS were completed!
Now, if I can only keep tidying/cleaning every day, my room should remain half decent! Thanks Leanne for the motivation!
My Tally Sheets
This month, I finished the “It’s in the Bag” challenge with byAnnie (Take a Stand) (HERE). A retreat gift (see this POST). The Layer Cake mystery quilt first used a Kansas Troubles Layer Cake which was a UFO You can read about it HERE. And the Necessary Clutch wallets were a UFO finish! (see This Post)
I have finished 2 UFOs this month … the wallets and the Colour Challenge ’23 … However, I won’t be showing you the Colour Challenge until December. So, this leaves me with 1 UFO to finish before Dec. 31. And the “Panel Birds” is ready to quilt.
As for the Starts in 2023 … well, that is another story … I have 3 that need quilting and binding: Gardenia, Fall Mystery with IB fabric and the Not Hunter’s Star. It’s touch and go as to whether I will finish all 3 or not!
Here’s my tally sheet:
If you want to keep track of your own progress, please feel free to download the 2023 Template.
Here’s my Task Sheetof my UFOs. This helps me keep track of what I’ve accomplished with my UFOs and what I need to do. I made a little progress on the wallet this month.
You can download your own Task list from Ms P Designs HERE.
How do you feel about free motion quilting? Most of you know that I really enjoy free motion quilting on my domestic sewing machine. It’s taken a LOT of practice and I’m still learning. Helen Godden is an excellent teacher and her youtube tutorials are great!
I have completed 3 of her tutorials: 2 Christmas ones and the Flower Power sampler. I used Inktense pencils on each of them. They were fun to make!
Helen is having another Christmas Countdown. You can access the free pattern HERE. EDIT: Apparently the link isn’t working … Helen posted on her FB page that the site was “melting.” and to try again later. In the meantime, you can go to her FB page and see her video. HERE.
How it works: each day from Dec. 1 – 24, Helen has a youtube video showing you what to quilt. It doesn’t take long. She offers hints along the way. It’s easy! And it is a fantastic way for you to practice free motion quilting!
It was from following along in the you tube videos that helped me do the FMQ on the Pangolin and the Elephant quilts. These were done for an Island Batik challenge using Aurifil Thread. You can read more about the Pangolin HERE and the Elephant HERE.
SEW … are you going to join me in doing the Christmas Countdown?
Mystery Quilt is Done!
Links to all the clues can be found at the top of my blog HERE.
WIP-B-Gone
Leanne, of Devoted Quilter is hosting a WIPS-B-Gone ’23 challenge. I decided to not only sew every day, but to also clean/tidy each day!!! I’m managing to find things to tidy or clean each and every day!!! It’s never ending! But, what do I expect when I’m tearing my room apart to find specific fabric for another project? Or, when a project is finished, I need to put the excess fabric away …
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –October: 287 / 304
November: 26 / 26
Total: 313 / 330
Percentage: 94%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
I didn’t have the right colour for backing, so I ran over to Essem Textiles and bought 2 yards of flannel to back this quilt.
Yearly Tally:
Fabric Used since the last report: 0 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 207 yards from non-IB: 94
Fabric Bought this week: 2 yards
Fabric Added this year: 21.5 yards
Net Fabric used: 185.5 yards
Just an FYI: I do not count any fabric that is given to me (Island Batik), but this year, I am going to count it as fabric used.
To Do Tuesday
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
After looking at my list, I realized that I STILL had NOT cut out my Malted Mystery fabrics … and the cutting directions came out in July, I decided to put the fabrics back in my stash. It obviously is not a priority for me at the moment and hasn’t been for several months. I had good intentions, but I have enough on my plate for the time being. Thus Malted Mystery is now striked off my list.
The To Dolist from last week:
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “Turkey Trot” project … now renamed “Not a Hunter’s Star“. Partially done! It’s sandwiched
Cut out Malted Mystery FabricsNot done
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt” Not done
Work on IB December Challenge. It was worked on, but I still need to quilt it! It’s a fun project and I can’t wait to show you! partially DONE
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √ DONE
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.√ DONE.With the WIP-B-Gone … I’m actually doing this for 15 minutes DAILY!!!!
This week’s list:
Quilt and Bind “Turkey Trot” project … now renamed “Not a Hunter’s Star“
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
Finish IB December Challenge
Start Christmas blog hop challenge.
Sandwich, Quilt and Bind “2023 Classic Car Monthly Colour Challenge.”
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.
Design Wall
Judy, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week. Sorry, no pictures to share!
Piecing projects:
Work on December Blog Hop Challenge/ Cookie Exchange
Start Island Batik “SS 24 Catalogue Quilt”
Quilting: 2 of these need sandwiching, all need quilting and binding!
“Not a Hunter’s Star”
“2023Fall Mystery Quilt”
“2023 Classic Car Monthly Colour Challenge.”
Upcoming Blog Hops
Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)
I made 2 quilts for the Island Batik ’22 Fall / Winter Catalog: “Stepping Out” with a black background and an light background (Sprinkles). I LOVE how the different backgrounds give the quilts a totally different look!
McCall’s Quilting: May / June issue
I was very excited to have another quilt in a magazine!!! The magazine put out a call for quilts that are “out of this world.” I immediately thought of this star quilt that’s been in the back of my mind! I submitted the draft (from EQ8) and it was accepted.
After, “talking” with Island Batik, the fabric collection, Wild Blooms, along with Ravine (a basic) was selected and they sent it on it’s way very quickly! It arrived and the top was completed before I went on holidays last year. I LOVE quarter square triangles and it was a fun quilt to put together!
After my holidays, there were a few very intense days of quilting (and shoulders complaining!) then Nova was on it’s way to the publisher!
The directions for making this quilt are in the magazine and digital copies are still available.
I also used Wild Blooms to make this crazy quilted composition book cover. You can read more about it HERE. (and find the links to the pattern).
And, I made this cute tote bag, using Wild Blooms …. using left-overs from the Nova (the star quilt above).
I made the following quilt as a Pattern Tester for Brenda at Songbird Designs. You can order the pattern from her HERE.
This Picnic Tote was made for a Sew It-Show It Blog Hop. See HERE.
And now, all I have left is a few scraps … but the joy I had in making all these projects is huge!
November’s Classic Car colour is Green. Visit Patterns by Jen HERE for your free download of this month’s block …
Here’s my November block, followed by the rest of the monthly blocks. I’ve used scraps of Island Batik for all of my blocks.
Upcoming Class
I will be teaching the “Retreat Bag” at Essem Textiles on December 4. It is a free pattern from Emmaline Bags, but in this class, you will get lots of help and hints to making the bag easily! There is still room available!
Leanne, of Devoted Quilter is hosting a WIPS-B-Gone ’23 challenge. I decided to not only sew every day, but to also clean/tidy each day!!! I’m managing to find things to tidy or clean each and every day!!! It’s never ending! But, what do I expect when I’m tearing my room apart to find specific fabric for another project? Or, when a project is finished, I need to put the excess fabric away … This morning, I vacuumed all the dust bunnies that reproduced in the past week … boy, they multiply quickly!
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –October: 287 / 304
November: 19 / 19
Total: 306 / 323
Percentage: 94%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
Except this week, I did buy 1 yards of fabric for a backing.
I finished a testing a quilt pattern for a friend. The quilting is done and it’s already been given away. I can show you the quilt when my friend can release the pattern. However, I can tell you that I used 13 yards of blue fabric from my stash to make the quilt. In my opinion, it’s one beautiful quilt!!! I’m sure that you’ll all be racing to get the pattern when it’s available. The pattern is called “Dashing through the Snow.” It’s the fabric line that lead to the quilt name, but it will be lovely in any colour way! I’ll show you the quilt and give you the link to the pattern at a later date!
The “Take a Stand” totes used 5 yards for the 2 totes. You can read about these byAnnie bags HERE.
The “Modern Squares 2” quilt used 7 yards. You can read about it HERE.
Size: 52″ x 52″
Batting: Hobbs 80/20
Quilting: Free Motion ruler quilting on my domestic Janome M7, Silly Moon’s 4″ Beanie ruler was used for the flowers and Rocket was used for all of the straight seams.
Yes, I had another quilt published in Island Batik’s catalog. You can see the catalogue HERE. It’s in the Fall / Winter ’23 catalog on page 33.
My quilt uses the fabric collection “Flutter Wings” by Kathy Engle with Almond (an Island Batik neutral) for the background. I wasn’t suppose to post this quilt until February because that’s when the yardage will arrive at the stores! However, I happened to see a couple of FB posts from a local quilt store and they had received many pre-cuts of the new fabric collections.
I spied some Flutter Wings strip packs. I immediately wrote to Island Batik asking permission to post my quilt since my quilt uses a 2 1/2” strip pack. They said yes.
Phoning Cozy Cottons Quilting was next on my ‘to do’ list and I talked with Angela. She’s the wonderful owner of Cozy Cottons and is so excited to be receiving Island Batik fabrics again! And she ordered patterns for my quilt. They are on their way to Chilliwack now!
Without making you read more, here is a picture of the quilt I made using Flutter Wings. This photo was taken by Jerry Khiev of Island Batik. He always does a fantastic job!!!
Simple quilting … 1/4″ around the coloured squares and a flower in the larger centre squares.
The back is Chameleon
Quilt Stats:
Size: 52″ x 52″
Batting: Hobbs 80/20
Quilting: Free Motion ruler quilting on my domestic Janome M7, Silly Moon’s 4″ Beanie ruler was used for the flowers and Rocket was used for all of the straight seams.
So head over to Cozy Cottons Quilt shop in Chilliwack to get your strip pack of Flutter Wings and the pattern! Or, choose from one of the other wonderful strip packs!
Here are a few other places that you can buy Flutter Wings:
The Quilt Connection. Rapid City, SD. (They also have the pattern for this quilt. If they are sold out, you can contact me directly).
Cali Quilt Co – CA
Creekside Quilts – OR
Jambearies Quilt Co – FL
Here is a picture of the quilt, without the borders, that my pattern tester made. I forget which line of fabric she used, but I’m pretty sure it was an Island Batik 2 1/2” strip pack. (Thanks, Lynn!)
Last week on my weekly Synopsis, I told you about driving to a local quilt store and was totally annoyed that it was closed when I arrived. I did email the store and complained. They said “sorry” and that they would correct their hours on Google. It took a few days before that happened. Then, while I was at the retreat, I got a lovely email with a $10 gift card from the store. Since the store was sort-of on my way home, I stopped in and spent the gift card on the thread I wanted! I was pleased that they appeared to value me as a customer!
Lots of Retreat Fun
This past week I was at a retreat with 20 other quilters. We tried out a new venue “Camp Luther” and it was great! There was lots of room, the food was too much, and having a bathroom in each bedroom is definitely a plus. Due to the potential of tripping a breaker, we had no ironing in the sewing room and we needed to walk down the hall to get our pressing done. Most people got their required steps in!
Here’s pictures from the retreat! Lots of creativity!
I always enjoying seeing my quilt designs completed! I LOVE the variations and how people do the pattern, change the pattern and use their own creativity. While at the retreat, I was delighted to see so many finishes!
Leanne, of Devoted Quilter is hosting a WIPS-B-Gone ’23 challenge. This fun challenge started October 1, 2023! It’s not too late if you want to join! It’s totally up to YOU as to how you want to use the challenge.
Since my challenge is to tidy/clean AND sew every day, it’s obvious that I didn’t clean my sewing room while I was at the retreat! And my fellow retreaters would definitely say I was lying if I said I tidied my table each and every day!! Of course it got tidied on the day we packed up … but then my room at home was a mess until the next day when I got it all put away!
Stitching Stuff
Kate, from Life in Pieces, is hosting “Stitching Stuff” and the goal is to sew for at least 15 minutes a day. I use Kate’s guideline, but my personal goal is to sew for 30 minutes a day. On those “blah” days, it does motivate me to sit at my machine and 30 minutes often turns into several hours. Thank you Kate for the motivation!
January –September: 256 / 273
October: 29 / 29
Total: 285 / 302
Percentage: 94%
Stash Report
Donna at Quilt Paint Create hosts a weekly linky party where you can display your stash numbers. This has really kept my stash from growing (somewhat!) Before I buy anything, I am always mindful of the fact that I need to report it on my blog … That sometimes stops me in my tracks!
This pumpkin Wall / Door hanging used 1 yard of fabric. And I didn’t buy any fabric when I was at the retreat.
Yearly Tally:
Fabric Used since the last report: 1 yards
Fabric Used in 2023: 181 yards from non-IB: 79.5
Fabric Bought this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added this year: 17.5 yards
Net Fabric used: 170.5 yards
Just an FYI: I do not count any fabric that is given to me (Island Batik), but this year, I am going to count it as fabric used.
To Do Tuesday
Carol from Quilt Schmilt is hosting “To Do” every week.
The To Dolist from last week:
Finish UFO project: Upholstery Walletprogress, but not finished
Start “Turkey Trot” project progress, but not finished
Cut out Malted Mystery FabricsNot done
Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow” progress, but not finished
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √ DONE
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.√ DONE
This week’s list:
Finish Upholstery Wallet
Work on “Turkey Trot” project
Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow”
Complete next “2023Fall Mystery Quilt” clue.
Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!
Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.
Design Wall
Judy, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week. Sorry, no pictures to share!
Piecing projects:
Upholstery Wallet
Work on “Turkey Trot” project
Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
Quilting:
“Dashing Through the Snow”
Upcoming Blog Hops
Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)
Joan of Moose Stash Quilting is the wonderful host of the Monster Mash Blog Hop.
The Challenge … Sew and share something scary, not scary, or something in between. If it’s Halloween related you know we will love it!
Well, I don’t like scary … so mine is not scary! Just a simple pumpkin to hang on my front door. It was fun to make the strips a little improv, and then I squared it up. Believe it or not, this took me about 5 days to make, doing a little here and a little there! Although, I’m positive I could have made it in a few hours! 😁
Stats:
Size: 12.5″ x 16″
Fabric: Strips from Island Batik’s “Opulent Orange” 10″ stack paired with “Mocha.”
Hobbs 80/20 Batting is inside
Quilted with Aurifil #3817 (Variegated Marrakesh) on my domestic Janome M7.
Monster Mash Bloggers
Be sure to visit each blogger, there will be lots of Monster eye candy!
That’s right, I have another finish!!! And, in my humble, or not so humble, opinion, I think it’s beautfiul!
I finally finished “Splendor.” This is a free pattern from Sew Can She. You can access the pattern HERE. The original pattern uses 3 yards of fabric, but I made mine larger and used 10.5 yards, including the back and binding. The main blocks were cut with my Accuquilt 8″ Qube dies.
Although I LOVE the fabrics and colours in this quilt, it is not made with Island Batik fabric. Again, I was reminded about how much I LOVE Island Batik quilting cottons. They are easy to work with, they have little if any stretch and don’t fray. But, I also need to use up my stash!
And, here’s a few more pictures: A close up of the quilting using Silly Moon’s “Drop,” “Rocket,” and “Kite” rulers. Drop was used in the squares, Rocket for all the straight stitching and Kite in the borders. I pieced the back since I didn’t have quite enough to make it with the purple polka dots.
Quilt Stats:
Size: 60″ x 73″
Fabric from Mr. Overseas in Abbotsford (bought when I was at a retreat in May)
Quilting Gail 