Island Batik

Monday Moments: Dec 19 ’22

/ quiltinggail / 16 Comments

The Mystery Quilt is done!!!

If you missed the parade, it’s worth taking a look! See THIS POST.

Lone Star Blog Hop: Week 3

This blog hop is pretty fantastic!!!! Lots and lots of eye candy !!!! Make sure you visit each of the bloggers to see their wonderful creations!

December 19:

Mania Hatziioannidi

Michelle Roberts

December 20:

Pamela Boatright

Connie Kauffman

Sandra Stanfield

December 21:

Jane Hauprich

Lisa Pickering

December 22:

Brianna Roberts

Elizabeth DeCroos

Anorina Morris

December 23:

Visit Island Batik’s Blog for your opportunity to win!

Another Finished Branches Table Runner

I decided that I needed another table runner for the top of my piano. I chose a beautiful dark blue Island Batik fabric called “Ravine” and paired it with “Rice. This was also a DREMI: DRop Everything And Make It. This is the result:

Another DREAMI

I received a lovely charm pack and pattern from Missouri Star Quilting … and I just had to make it! Yup, it was a DRop Everything And Make It project! Such a fun project.

Another UFO Finish

The Spicy Colour Challenge quilt was started last December and I finally got it finished this month! You can read about it HERE. That makes 12 UFOs that I’ve finished this year. SEW … I will be getting my PHD in 2022. However, I still have a list of UFOs that need to be finished, so I will be having PHD in 2023!

  • Island Batik Fabric
  • Hobbs 80/20 on the inside
  • Aurifil thread (to piece and quilt)

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!

Lots of stitching in the past week!

  • January – November: 288 / 333
  • Dec:  18 / 18
  • Total:  306 / 351
  • Percentage = 87% 

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!

However, this week, I went out to Chilliwack to Cozy Cotton Quilting to pick up some quilts, deliver patterns and give her another quilt for display. Angela had recently received a lot of Island Batik bolts (mostly from the Pumpkin Spice collection) and I just couldn’t resist … so I had 3 fabrics cut for me! Aren’t they beautiful ???? I will definitely be making the trip out to Cozy Cotton just to buy Island Batik fabric!!!

The Spicy BOM used 4.5 yards of fabric. The newest branches table runner used 1 yard. And the mugs / snowflake used 1.5 yards

  • Fabric Used since the last report   7  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       109.5 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:  3.5 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    33 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                76.5 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from last week:

  1. Finish my Winter Branches Table runner. √   DONE,
  2. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet). √   DONE,
  3. Finish Clue #3 Chilhowie. √   DONE,
  4. Write blog post : Spicy BOM. √   DONE,
  5. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  6. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes √   DONE

This week’s list:

  1. Finish Clue #4 Chilhowie
  2. Start Classic Cars Colour Challenge BOM – Jan / Feb
  3. Start colouring the Nutcracker
  4. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  5. 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. I must apologize, I’ve been calling Judy by the wrong name !!! I’m so glad that she let me know and now I’m calling her by the correct name!

Piecing:

  1. Classic Cars Colour Challenge BOM
  2. Chilhowie – Clue #4 in progress

Quilting:

Once I do some colouring with Inktense pencils, I’ll start quilting the Nutcracker. Here he is on my window for tracing.

Upcoming & Current Blog Hops

Island Batik‘s December’s Lone Star Blog Hop. Week #3 is started! LOTS and LOTS of fabulous quilts!

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Sew It – Show It: Shades of Blue (January)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Sweet on You (February)

Shades of Blue

Plans for 2023

There are a few things I’m planning for 2023. More details in the coming weeks.

  • PHD in 2023
  • 2023 SAHRR (with some wonderful sponsors this year!)
  • 2023 Appliqué  BOM (I bet this surprises a LOT of people!)
  • Winter 2023 Mystery Quilt

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Spicy Block of the Month!

/ quiltinggail / 14 Comments

This year, I participated in the Spicy Block of the Month, hosted by Patterns by Jen.

I used scraps of Island Batik fabrics to make the blocks.

Each month, Jen provides free directions for a 6″ and a 12″ block. When the month is over, you need to purchase the block for a minimal price.

Here is my December block: And yes, I goofed up and had to make adjustments, so it’s not exactly like Jen’s directions …

Here are the blocks in order …

And here is my finished quilt … I used Island Batik’s solid black for the sashing, 2 1/2″ squares of fabric left-over from the blocks for the corner stones.

And … with the quilt being a bit busy, I used wild quilting and thoroughly enjoyed quilting it!

2023 Colour Challenge

The 2023 Monthly Colour Challenge will be based on Classic Cars! Will you join me with the different monthly blocks? Make sure you follow Patterns by Jen and myself so you don’t miss a month! Jen will be posting the new blocks at the beginning of the month – me? I’ll be posting later in the month except for December, when I will post on the 1st!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Fall 2022 Scrappy Mystery Quilt: The Parade!

/ quiltinggail / 17 Comments

The Quilts

This is Patti’s. I love the scrappiness and the dark background!

Here’s Dawn’s. She used 2 fabrics and the background. Doesn’t it look great?

Susan has the top together. It was a sunny day, so she was able to get a picture with true colours! And yes, you can see her shadow! She’s used ‘plane’ fabric! Very cute!

Jill has pulled fabric for her quilt … with those blues and greens against the grey – it’ll be lovely!

Isabelle says she still needs to add the border – and that will happen after Christmas.

Lynn K has the blocks laid out for one row. She says that she loves the scraps, but has very few left! That is amazing! And the background it totally scrappy – awesome!

Heather also did a scrappy background. And why not? Here it is with the rows ready to put together!

Irene ‘s inspector (Miss Hamish) obviously likes the blues in this quilt!!!

And here’s mine. The one with the dark background was the inspiration and the one with the light background was the one that I made while writing the pattern! Both are made with Island Batik fabrics, Hobbs batting on the inside and Aurifil thread for the quilting.

The Linky Party

Show us your quilts, or quilts in progress!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter
https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=c0efdbe6b4add43dd7ef

You can access all the clues HERE

  • Oct 18: Clue #1: Fabric Requirements and Cutting HERE
  • Oct 25: Clue #2: HERE
  • Nov 1: Clue #3 HERE
  • Nov 8: Clue #4 HERE
  • Nov 15: Clue #5 This Post
  • Nov 22: Clue #6 HERE
  • Nov 29: Clue #7 this post
  • Dec 6: Clue #8. – HERE

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Sunday Summation: December 11 ’23

/ quiltinggail / 23 Comments

My Finished Branches Table Runner

I taught the “Winter Branches” Table runner at Essem and I worked on my own table runner, but didn’t get it finished in class. But, it’s finished now!  I used an Island Batik fabric from the Napa Valley collection along with Custard. There is Hobbs 80/20 on the inside and I quilted the straight lines with a walking foot and Aurifil #2311 (Muslin).

A UFO Finish

I finally finished this wallet! The outside is Cork and the inside is Island Batik fabric from the Napa Valley collection. The pattern is “The Necessary Clutch” by Emmaline Bags. For the twist clasp, the pattern said to follow manufacture’s directions. HUH!!! There were none!!! A friend of mine, Irene, told me to look at Spenser Ogg’s tutorial, How to Apply a Twist Lock. Spenser is brilliant. Her tutorial is great! This wallet would have been thrown in the trash if I hadn’t been able to do the twist lock. Thanks, Irene!!!

Now I can finally use this wallet! The cork on my current Necessary Clutch is falling apart. I’ve sprayed the new wallet’s cork with leather conditioner, so hopefully it will last longer than the first one. But really, 5 years isn’t too bad!

This is the wallet I made in 2018 … almost 5 years ago! And how it looks today. You can see how the cork is wearing at the edges and some of it is peeling off.

The Mystery Quilt is done!!!

This is a super simple mystery quilt! It is my own design. I designed it for the Boundary Bay Quilt Guild, but I’ve shared it with YOU as well!

The Parade is on Tuesday, Dec. 13, so be sure to come and see the wonderful quilts!

Here are 8 clues.

  • Oct 18: Clue #1: Fabric Requirements and Cutting HERE
  • Oct 25: Clue #2: HERE
  • Nov 1: Clue #3 HERE
  • Nov 8: Clue #4 HERE
  • Nov 15: Clue #5 This Post
  • Nov 22: Clue #6 HERE
  • Nov 29: Clue #7 this post
  • Dec 6: Clue #8. – HERE
  • Dec 13: Mystery Quilt Parade

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!

Lots of stitching in the past week!

  • January – November: 288 / 333
  • Dec:  11 / 11
  • Total:  299 / 344
  • Percentage = 86% 

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!

  • Back of Lone Star Quilt – 4 yards
  • Back of Fall Mystery Quilt – 3.5 yards
  • Back of Left-over from Lone Star 3.5 yards
  • Back of Branches Table Runner – 1 yard
  • Fabric Used since the last report   12  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       102.5 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    29.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                73 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from last week:

  1. Finish my Winter Branches Table runner. √   DONE,
  2. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet). √   DONE,
  3. Work on Melodic Mystery Quilt finish fixing all the mistakes! √   DONE,
  4. Finish Clue #2 Chilhowie  √   DONE
  5. Write blog post : Spicy BOM in progress
  6. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  7. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes √   DONE

This week’s list:

  1. Start colouring the Nutcracker
  2. Finish Clue #3 Chilhowie
  3. Write blog post : Spicy BOM
  4. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  5. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes

Design Wall

Donna, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week.

Piecing:

  1. Chilhowie – Clue #3 in progress … and they are on my Prairie Spirit Alpaca/wool pressing mat!!! LOVE the mat!

Quilting:

Once I do some colouring with Inktense pencils, I’ll start quilting the Nutcracker. Here he is on my window for tracing.

Upcoming & Current Blog Hops

Island Batik‘s December’s Lone Star Blog Hop. Week #1 is done! What a fabulous collection of Lone Stars. Week #2’s schedule is below.

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Sew It – Show It: Shades of Blue (January)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Sweet on You (February)

Shades of Blue

December 12:

Reed Johnson

Suzy Webster

December 13:

Jennifer Fulton

Gail Renna

December 14:

Denise Looney

Claudia Porter

December 15:

Leah Malasky

Andi Stanfield

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

December Left-overs

/ quiltinggail / 29 Comments

When I made the Lone Star quilt with Island Batik’s Baby Bloomers collection (see HERE) … I had left-overs. The tutorial suggested using them for a border, top and bottom, but I didn’t want to do that on my lone star. And, since I’m on a mission to use up left-overs asap, I HAD to do something!

So, I paired up the left-overs, sewed them into squares, put them on-point with Lime Green (Island Batik solid basic) and voila! A baby quilt is born!

It was sandwiched with Hobbs 80/20 and quilted with Aurifil 2520 (violet).

The binding is Small Check-Multi Pink (part of the Baby Bloomers collection).

Here is the quilt – all quilted and bound! I LOVE how bright and cheery it is!

There were still some scraps left-over … so I made these 4 pencil cases, following a tutorial byAnnie. The “A Pencil Case for Lola” pattern is free HERE and the Youtube tutorial is HERE. If you’ve never made a byAnnie bag, this is a fantastic way to start!

On one of the pencil cases, I used Soft and Stable, on 3 of them I used Hobbs 80/20 batting. Each of them is fine, but the one with Soft and Stable holds it’s shape better.

Lone Star Blog Hop

Have you been following the Lone Star Blog Hop? There have been some wonderful quilts!!! Tons of eye candy!!! Visit Island Batik’s blog to see a re-cap of Week 1! Plus an opportunity to win fabric!

Coming in 2023!

For the past several years, I’ve hosted PHD in ???? (year). The idea is to decrease the number of UFOs that you have and to NOT increase the number! This is accomplished by finishing ALL of your new starts. There are a few exceptions, but I’ll be posting about it in the near future!

Several blogging friends and I will be hosting the Stay at Home Round Robin (SAHRR). Typically, groups of quilters do round robins where the quilt is passed on to other quilters to add the next round. With the SAHRR YOU are in control of the fabrics that are used and how big the quilt is. We’ll be starting this in mid-January! It’s a lot of fun, with quilters joining from around the world. There will be a post with more details in the coming weeks.

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Island Batik’s December Lone Star Challenge

/ quiltinggail / 46 Comments

In July, I received an awesome Surprise package in my Island Batik,  box and this is what I got: 20 half yard cuts of fabric from the Baby Bloomers collection, a signature collection for Karen Overton. Also included was 2 yard of Dots-Pink Carnation and 2 yards of Cow Moon Clouds – purple.

The only Lone Star I’ve made was a Judy Niemeyer pattern and I didn’t really want to purchase one of her patterns. I knew that there must be other options!

So, what to do??? EQ8 to the rescue … I downloaded the Baby Bloomers fabric collection and started to play! I’m not sure when, but I must have followed a tutorial at one point, because I found a folder called “Lone Star Practice.” Bingo! I found exactly what I wanted to make. I substituted the original fabric with the Baby Bloomers fabric and came up with this:

When I searched the Internet for “How to make a Lone Star Quilt,” I came across a few tutorials by Donna at Jordan Fabrics. WONDERFUL!!! Here’s the tutorial I mostly followed: One Jelly Roll, Lone Star. However, in order to make the quilt I wanted to make, I needed to make some adjustments. Mainly with the purple going up each point of the star.

I needed to make a strip set of my fabrics, I used my 2 1/2” Accuquilt die and made perfect strips very quickly!

I laid out the strips and pinned them onto my design wall.

I sewed the strips together (picture above) and cut according to the directions. And forgot to take a picture of the cut pieces!

Then, I made sure to mark Every. Single. Intersection. to ensure almost perfect points … (hmmm, that didn’t always work according to plan!)

Yes, I used “Dude” from Silly Moon Rulers and a pencil to mark the intersections. Then I used the forked pins to hold the intersections in place. I’m usually not a pinner – but it was a MUST in this case!

My Prairie Spirit Alpaca/Wool pressing mat made for perfect points!

When I put the light pink from the collection up on the design wall with the star pieces I had assembled, my immediate thought was “what in the world were you thinking?” It did NOT look good. It looked washed out. I started digging through my stash! Many different fabrics were auditioned. I found this slightly darker and brighter pink tied up with one of my Island Batik precuts and BINGO, it was perfect for the quilt. It is called “Floral Carnation” and is from the Blenders collection (available at all times).

Hobbs Batting 80/20 was used as well as an assortment of Schmetz Needles for piecing and quilting.

I quilted it with Aurifil Thread,  #2515 (Light Orchid) on the top and Aurifil #2423 (Baby Pink) in the bobbin. When auditioning the threads, I felt that the Baby Pink was too light for the top but the Light Orchid was perfect. However, I didn’t know if I had enough Light Orchid to use for both the top and bobbin. I used Aurifil #4225 (Eggplant) to attach the binding.

Quilting Close-ups

The Finished Lone Star

Be sure to visit Maryellen at MaryMackMadeMine! She had the same fabric collection. I haven’t seen her quilt, but I just KNOW that it will be a totally different Lone Star!

Lone Star Blog Hop Schedule

Week 1:

December 5:

Maryellen McAuliffe

Gail Sheppard YOU ARE HERE!

December 6:

Megan Best

Brenda Alburl

December 7:

Preeti Harris

Emily Leachman

December 8:

Jennifer Thomas

December 9:

Visit Island Batik’s Blog for your opportunity to win!

Week 2:

December 12:

Reed Johnson

Suzy Webster

December 13:

Jennifer Fulton

Gail Renna

December 14:

Denise Looney

Claudia Porter

December 15:

Leah Malasky

Andi Stanfield

December 16:

Visit Island Batik’s Blog for your opportunity to win!

Week 3:

December 19:

Mania Hatziioannidi

Michelle Roberts

December 20:

Pamela Boatright

Connie Kauffman

Sandra Stanfield

December 21:

Jane Hauprich

Lisa Pickering

December 22:

Brianna Roberts

Elizabeth DeCroos

Anorina Morris

December 23:

Visit Island Batik’s Blog for your opportunity to win!

Hashtags for industry (only if you are actually using the products): #hobbsbatting #accuquilt #accuquiltgo #schmetzneedles #doyoueq #janome #bernina #juki #dritz #olfacreates #junetailor #brothersews #cloverusa #oliso #studio180design #omnigrid

Thank you!

Disclosure: The fabrics, batting, thread and needles were generously supplied by the following companies: Thank you, Island Batik,  Aurifil Thread,  Hobbs Batting,  Schmetz Needles,  Accuquilt & Prairie Spirit Alpacas!!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Sunday Summation: Nov. 27 ’22

/ quiltinggail / 12 Comments

The Mystery Quilt is well on it’s way!!!

This is a super simple mystery quilt! It is my own design. I designed it for the Boundary Bay Quilt Guild, but I’m going to be sharing it with YOU as well!

This quilt will finish at 43″ x 53″

There are 8 clues. They will all come out on Tuesdays, starting October 18.

  • Oct 18: Clue #1: Fabric Requirements and Cutting HERE
  • Oct 25: Clue #2: HERE
  • Nov 1: Clue #3 HERE
  • Nov 8: Clue #4 HERE
  • Nov 15: Clue #5 This Post
  • Nov 22: Clue #6 HERE
  • Nov 29: Clue #7
  • Dec 6: Clue #8
  • Dec 13: Mystery Quilt Parade

This week’s class

I will be teaching this table runner at Essem on Wednesday. I believe there is still room for one more. You can register for it HERE. This table runner will take you into the freeing world of slightly abstract and each table runner will be unique.

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!

Lots of stitching in the past week!

  • January – October: 258 / 303
  • Nov:  27 /27
  • Total:  285 / 331
  • Percentage = 86% 

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 backing for this quilt used 4 yards of fabric. You can see details of this quilt HERE.

Fabric: Island Batik Citified collection, FMQ with Aurifil thread, Hobbs 80/20 batting in the middle!

But I did go shopping. I stopped in at Castle’s Sewing Centre and just HAD to buy some of their Island Batik fabrics! I bought 1 meter of each! Aren’t they just beautiful???????

  • Fabric Used since the last report   4  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       90 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:  6 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    29.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                60.5 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from last week ago:

  1. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet) not DONE
  2. Work on Melodic Mystery Quilt – and fix all the mistakes! not DONE
  3. Make December Spicy BOM √   DONE
  4. Web Spicy BOM √   DONE
  5. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  6. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes √   DONE

This week’s list:

  1. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet)
  2. Work on Melodic Mystery Quilt – and fix all the mistakes!
  3. Finish Clue #1 Chilhowie
  4. Quilt Spicy BOM
  5. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  6. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes

Design Wall

Donna, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week.

Piecing:

  1. Melodic Mystery Quilt: November clue is done … but I still haven’t fixed my previous mistakes. It’s not too late for you to start … the clues are at Meadow Mist Designs.
  2. Chilhowie – Clue #1 in progress
  3. Extra fabric from Citified

Quilting:

Spicy BOM is waiting!

Upcoming Blog Hop

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Sew It – Show It: Shades of Blue (January)

Island Batik‘s December’s Lone Star Blog Hop

Shades of Blue

Coming in 2023!

I’ve had a few emails … and yes, Some blogging friends and I will be hosting a Stay at Home Round Robin, starting mid January!

AND … to help you reduce your UFOs, there will be the PHD in 2023!

More info on both these events to come in December!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

What to make with a 2 1/2″ strip pack?

/ quiltinggail / 29 Comments

I received a 2.5″ strip pack from Island Batik awhile back … It’s such a beautiful collection … and I debated long and hard about what to make with it! It’s so pretty with the purples, oranges, golds, neutrals and blues!

I decided to go with a simple partial log cabin. The hardest part was deciding where each block should go!

Here are some close-ups of the graffiti quilting! I really enjoy quilting whatever I feel like! It’s so much fun! And, to be totally honest, it’s perfect when the quilt front is busy! And, it’s fast! I used Aurifil thread for the quilting and Hobbs 80/20 is in the middle!

This week’s class

This week, at Essem, I taught how to use an Easy Angle Ruler to make this quilt: (same block, different layouts.)

The ladies made a great start on their quilts! The quilts are going to be so different and each will be stunning!

A New Start #1

Have you ever made a Bonnie Hunter mystery quilt? I’ve made several in the past! But for the last few years, I haven’t made one. However, that is going to change this year! I’m going to make the Chilhowie mystery quilt! The first clue came out today and you can access it HERE.

I just might have enough Island Batik scraps to make this quilt! Are you going to join me in making this?

This quilt finishes at 78″ x 78″. If you don’t want to make one that big, just make half of the units that Bonnie suggests.

A New Start #2

Helen Godden, an excellent quilter and teacher is offering a FREE Christmas sew-a-long. If you want to improve your free motion quilting and only spend a few minutes each day – this is a project for YOU! You can access the pattern HERE. Then, starting Dec. 1, watch a daily youtube video on how to quilt it!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Sunday Summation: Nov. 20 ’22

/ quiltinggail / 12 Comments

Spicy BOM

Patterns by Jen has hosted a Spicy BOM this year. November’s Spice is Cloves. The block on the left is November’s block – with alterations … The photo on the right is all of the blocks so far this year. You can get November’s block FREE – for the rest of the month … HERE. I’ve used scraps of Island Batik fabrics to make these blocks … that’s why some of the pieces are pieced together!

The Mystery Quilt has started!

This is a super simple mystery quilt! It is my own design. I designed it for the Boundary Bay Quilt Guild, but I’m going to be sharing it with YOU as well!

This quilt will finish at 43″ x 53″

There are 8 clues. They will all come out on Tuesdays, starting October 18.

  • Oct 18: Clue #1: Fabric Requirements and Cutting HERE
  • Oct 25: Clue #2 HERE
  • Nov 1: Clue #3 HERE
  • Nov 8: Clue #4 This Post
  • Nov 15: Clue #5
  • Nov 22: Clue #6
  • Nov 29: Clue #7
  • Dec 6: Clue #8
  • Dec 13: Mystery Quilt Parade

New Classes

I will be teaching several classes at Essem in November. You can register for them HERE. This week it will be learning to use an Easy Angle Ruler for perfect Half-Square Triangles and making a scrappy quilt.

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!

Lots of stitching in the past week!

  • January – October: 258 / 303
  • Nov:  20 /20
  • Total:  278 / 324
  • Percentage = 85% 

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 finished the little zipper pouches for the Music Blog Hop. They used 1.5 yards of fabric. The travel post quilt used 1.5 yards as well.

But I did go shopping. A fabric store that is closing had wide back fabric for $10/m. I couldn’t resist! I bought 21 meters! That’s gonna hurt my numbers – but at that price, I just HAD to!

  • Fabric Used since the last report   3  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       87.5 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:  21 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    44.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                43 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from several weeks ago:

  1. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet)not DONE
  2. Make the project for the Music Blog Hop √   DONE
  3. Quilt the IB December project – √   DONE
  4. Work on Melodic Mystery Quilt – and fix all the mistakes! November done – mistakes not fixed
  5. Finish IB November project √   DONE – and blog post HERE.
  6. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  7. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes √   DONE

This week’s list:

  1. Work on and Finish a UFO (a wallet)
  2. Work on Melodic Mystery Quilt – and fix all the mistakes!
  3. Make December Spicy BOM
  4. Web Spicy BOM
  5. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  6. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes

Design Wall

Donna, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week.

Piecing:

  1. Melodic Mystery Quilt: November clue is done … but I still haven’t fixed my previous mistakes. It’s not too late if you want to start this mystery … the clues are at Meadow Mist Designs.
  2. Spicy BOM: Dec block
  3. Spicy BOM: web all the blocks into a top
  4. UFO – wallet

Quilting:

None in progress

Upcoming Blog Hop

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Sew It – Show It: Shades of Blue (January)

Island Batik‘s December’s Lone Star Blog Hop

Shades of Blue

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

A Trunk Show and Teaching

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This week I taught “Travel Posts” to 2 lovely talented quilters! Travel Posts is in the book Color Block Quilt Making by Elizabeth Chappell. It’s a great book and if you’re looking for quick and easy patterns – this book is for you! Essem may have this book in stock.

This is the quilt I made for the class sample. Simina helped pick out the fabrics: the coloured portions are grunge.

Anyhow, the class participants came very prepared and had their fabric all cut and labelled and were ready to roll! They finished the tops in class! Aren’t they great?

Here’s the 2nd one I did using Island Batik fabrics from the “Mystery Collection” and Island Batik solid grey.

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Sunday Summation: Nov. 13 ’22

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A New Project!

Oh ya!!! I started ANOTHER new project. When my cousin, Connie and I were shopping at the Cloth Shop, we saw these super nifty bowls. I fell in love!!! However, they did not have the pattern in stock. But a couple of weeks later, I was at Chitterchatter fabrics and they had the pattern. Of course I had to buy it! There are 7 different sizes included in the pattern. The pattern is “Goodness Bowl” by Jean Paccagnan. There is even a great youtube video to go with the pattern! And BONUS: Jean Paccagnan is a local designer!!!

I know it’s English Paper Piecing, but if I only sew for about 10 minutes a day, I’ll eventually get it done!

I decided to use some beautiful blue scraps of Island Batik fabric.

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Creative Christmas Stockings

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The first thing I did for this stocking challenge was to find a stocking pattern. I printed it out and I didn’t like I. My husband adjusted it, making the toes larger and I liked it way better!

For my first stocking, I cut out 2 pieces of Hobbs Batting 80/20 and drew lines on it to guide me as I did the striped quilt as you go. I used 2″ strips of each fabric. Prairie Spirit Alpacas/Wool pressing mat made everything lie perfectly flat!

I needed to be careful to ensure that I covered the batting with the fabrics … Jack the ripper came out to play here …

The stockings needed to be trimmed. I used the 1/4” mark on my ruler and worked around my template. (Yes, I used the page from a large calendar for my pattern!)

The 2nd stocking was a crazy patch that I attempted to do as a quilt as you go – but I had drawn too many intersecting lines to make it work … so it became an improvised crazy patch stocking.

I used “Pinecone – Dark Teal” and the red is #121913380 from Season Splendor (Fall/Winter 2019 collection) for the stockings and “Coconut” for the snowflakes. The snowflakes were cut with Accuquilt dies that I borrowed from our guild’s die collection.

Appliqueing the snowflake and marking the stocking for the crazy quilting.

Aurifil Thread # 2021 (Natural White) was used for the applique process. #2692 (Black) was used for quilting, assembly and the hanging tabs.

I wanted a little flange on the cuff – so the red was cut at 1 1/4” and the green at 3.” This made it possible to fold it 3/4” of the green to the inside so that the lining didn’t show. I used Island Batik solid white fabric for the lining.

Here’s the first 2 stockings hanging on my design wall.

I think the stockings look a little more Christmasy pinned to the wood pile! The third stocking is for our grand-dog, Daphne! The larger stockings are 21″ long and Daphne’s is 17″ long.

Thank you!

Disclosure: The fabrics, batting, thread and needles were generously supplied by the following companies: Thank you, Island Batik,  Aurifil Thread,  Hobbs Batting,  Schmetz Needles, Prairie Spirit Alpacas & Accuquilt!!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Sunday Summation: November 6 ’22

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A Finish!

My ironing board cover was a disaster! So many dark marks … I was going to change it before I took it to the retreat a few weeks ago … I’m glad I didn’t, because it gained an iron imprint!

So, I took 2 layers of Hobbs 80/20 batting and some fabric from my stash and made a new cover! It’s so nice and clean, I almost hate to use it!

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PHD in 2022: October Report

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Happy Halloween

These are pumpkins that my niece, Ashley and Rob carved! They have a new puppy – so the dog fit in quite well! LOL!

October’s Accomplishments!

Well, I didn’t finish ANY UFOs this month. None, Nada, not a one … hmmm … I think I said that last month!

I did finish 3 new starts …

  • The Candles that I started in January (see details HERE)
  • Winter Branches Table Runner (see details HERE)
  • 3 Buckets (see details HERE)

I have 2 more UFOs to finish before the end of the year and 2 new starts … for me, I think it’s doable! I hope!

The Tally Sheets

Here is an Excel File for you to use (if you want). PHD Tally 2022- with formulas

My Task sheet has not changed … And here is the link where you can find the colourful Task Sheet at Ms P Designs.

The Linky Party

Show us your PHD in 2022 Progress!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter
https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=c0efdbe6b4add43dd7ef

Favourite Finish of the Month

It’s hard for me to choose my favourite finish of the month. There is the byAnnie “A Place for Everything” bag and the Heart quilt made for the Breast Cancer Awareness Blog Hop. Both are made with Island Batik fabrics! For more info on these projects see HERE and HERE. Check out Meadow Mist Designs for more “Favourite Finishes”.

DrEAMI

DrEAMI stands for Drop Everything And Make It. I dropped everything to make these baskets … I needed a gift for the retreat … but I made 3 baskets … They were fun to make and I used up fabric that I had bought to make them!

Fabric Draw

OK … WAY back in September, when I posted my Island Batik project, (using Studio 180 rulers), I offered fabric to a Canadian reader … The fabric was set aside … as was the list … I had a lot going on at the time, emergency eye surgery plus other stuff (that’s my excuse & I’m sticking to it!)

Today, I remembered and the number generator chose #5. Sandra K. has been sent and email and the fabric will soon be on it’s way to her house! Congratulations, Sandra!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Monday Moments, October 10 ’22

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Today is Thanksgiving Day in Canada. Both of our kids have gone to the US to see a football game. So, for me, it’s a great excuse to NOT cook a turkey dinner! PLUS, we are going into Vancouver to have lunch with our nephew, niece and great nephew! Looking forward to this special time!

My Cousins’ Visit

My cousins, Connie and Paul have been visiting for the last few days. It’s been a LOT of fun. Last week when we were on Vancouver Island, we had an unexpected meeting with them. They were coming out of the Coombs store with ice cream cones and we were just heading to the store to buy some! It was such fun!

The fun continued once they made it to the mainland. We went to the Granville Island and of course Connie and I had to visit the Cloth Shop! I was good and only bought some stabilizer. (you don’t need to see a picture of stabilizer!) Then we took the Aqua bus and toured False Creek. Then, we just happened to drive by “Dress Sew” and we gals popped in for a few minutes to have a look! We couldn’t resist the sale items!

The next day was a trip to Dinkydoo fabrics and I did 2 yards worth of damage. This fabric was on sale … and who can resist the sewing themed fabrics? I obviously couldn’t!

This was followed by a walk at Redwood Park and at Crescent Beach to watch the sunset. (Photo credit to Connie!)

New Classes

I will be teaching several classes at Essem in November. You can register for them HERE.

Stitching Time

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!

With company here, very little stitching happened!

  • January – September: 234 / 272
  • Oct :  4 / 9
  • Total:  238 / 283
  • Percentage = 84% 

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!

  • Fabric Used since the last report   0  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       77 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:   2 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    20 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                57 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from several weeks ago:

  1. Finish Secret Quilt not DONE
  2. Winter Branches table runner – if I finish Secret Quilt, I’ll work on this! not DONE
  3. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  4. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes  not DONE

This week’s list:

  1. Finish Secret Quilt (I have quilting and binding to do)
  2. Winter Branches table runner – if I finish Secret Quilt, I’ll work on this!
  3. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  4. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes

Design Wall

Donna, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week.

Quilting:

Secret Quilt …

Current and Upcoming Blog Hops

Pinktober is hosted by Brianna of Sew Cute and Quirky and Island Batik … my day is October 13!

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Music Blog hop

Here are the links to the various PINKtober blogs:

DateWhoCollectionWhere to find them
Monday, October 3Jennifer ThomasPositively Pinkhttps://curlicuecreations.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, October 4Lisa PickeringHope and Heartlisascompassion.wordpress.com
Thursday, October 6thMaryellen McAuliffePositively Pinkhttps://www.marymackmademine.com
Monday, October 10Emily LeachmanPositively Pinkhttp://thedarlingdogwood.blogspot.com
Tuesday, October 11Jane HauprichPositively Pinkwww.stitchbystitchcustomquilting.com
Wednesday, October 12Marlene OddiePositively Pinkwww.kissedquilts.com
Thursday, October 13Gail SheppardPositively Pinkhttps://quiltinggail.com

Friday , October 14
Jerry StubeHope and Hearthttps://www.facebook.com/TheQuiltersQuarter
Monday, October 17Brianna RobertsHope And Hearthttps://www.quirkyb.com/blog
Tuesday, October 18Terri Vanden-BoschHope And Hearthttps://lizardcreekquilting.com/
Wednesday, October 19Mania HatziioannidiHope And Heartwww.maniaforquilts.com
Thursday, October 20Laura PilandHope And Hearthttps://www.sliceofpiquilts.com/

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

It’s in the Bag Challenge: byAnnie

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 ByAnnie sent me EVERYTHING I need to make “A Place for Everything 2.0.” The Island Batik fabrics are Humming Bird Nectar, Dots-Multi Blue Green and Honeycomb – Purple, all from the “Bee Kind” fabric collection. (the Bee Kind fabric collection should be available in stores now. I’m loving the fabrics! (I should, I got to pick them out!)

The “A Place for Everything” pattern comes with a coupon for an Add-on Video. These videos were invaluable. They don’t replace the pattern, but they certainly make certain steps a LOT easier!

By Annie patterns come with a label chart on the back. I find that it is extremely important to photocopy this sheet and use it to label EVERYTHING as you cut it. When you do this, there is no second guessing if a piece of fabric is the correct one – it says it on the label!

Here is a picture of most things cut, labelled and pinned on my design wall for easy access. The clear vinyl is not on the design wall as I didn’t want to poke holes in it.

I started with quilting the Humming Bird Nectar fabric and the Dots-Multi Blue Green with Soft & Stable between. 505 spray does not adhere to the Soft & Stable and since I really dislike pins, I used Elmer’s Disappearing Purple glue stick and the fabric stuck like a charm. The fabric was quilted with my walking foot, using a serpentine line, alternating with a straight line. I used Aurifil Thread: #4225 (Eggplant).

Then, I started to assemble the various parts of the bag … following the directions.

Here’s the parts, prior to the bag construction: Most of the zippers are in, the pages, with vinyl and mesh are constructed. The straps are made … all ready for the bag assembly!

I used clips (as suggested in the instructions and videos) and it sure makes sewing the bag together much easier! The clips come off easily and they don’t poke my fingers! {grin}

I was pretty excited when the bag was finally put together! And I’m in LOVE with my “A Place for Everything” bag! I plan to use this bag to store all my ruler quilting rulers!

Things to think about when making ByAnnie bags

  • Read the instructions.
  • Read the instructions AGAIN!
  • Follow the cutting diagrams in the pattern – this is especially important when cutting the mesh fabric!
  • Take your time.
  • Do each step in the order written in the pattern.
  • Watch the add-on videos before starting the bag making process.
  • Watch any other appropriate byAnnie videos.
  • Take your time.
  • Enjoy the process and you will thoroughly enjoy the finished bag!

Thank you!

Disclosure: The fabrics, batting, thread and needles were generously supplied by the following companies: Thank you, Island Batik  Aurifil Thread  ByAnnie & Schmetz Needles !!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Monday Moments Oct. 3’22

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We Went Camping!

We went over to Vancouver Island for a week of camping! Except for one rainy day, the weather was perfect!

We enjoyed French Beach, Port Renfrew, Stoltz Pool, the Malahat Skywalk, Rathtrevor’s Beach and a quick drive up to Courtenay to see our old home. I found that the Malahat Skywalk was absolutely stunning! Of course, I’m biased because my daughter’s structural engineering firm designed it. But, I think I still would have enjoyed it!

Holiday Shopping

We only stopped at a few quilt stores. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures of the stores. At Bib and Tucker in Victoria, I found some Island Batik neutrals (Almond and Egg white) and bought 2 yards of each, plus some Aurifil thread. Then at Sweet Pea in Parksville, I bought a pattern. Huckleberries in Courtenay had some spool bobbin thingies that I thought I’d try. I’ll let you know how they work out.

Favourite finish in September

Meadow Mist has a linky party each month for our favourite finishes … Mine was an Island Batik challenge using Deb Tucker tools and the “Flourish” fabric collection. You can read about it HERE.

New Classes

I will be teaching several classes at Essem in November. You can register for them HERE.

November 2 & 9: Puzzle Quilt

This is a 2 day class. From the book, Fat Quarter Baby. This looks like a super easy quilt, but when you deviate from the absolute directions in the book, there is a bit of a challenge. However, it is a very doable quilt to make – with my handy hints! This was made with a Fat Quarter Bundle that Semina put together!

November 16: Travel Posts

From the book, Color Block Quilt Making. This quilt is fairly easy to make. And you might get the top done in a day! It’s a nice lap sized quilt!

I made the top with Grunge fabrics … Semina will make you a kit if you want!

November 23: Scrappy 4 Patch and Easy Angle.

This quilt has many different layouts and sizes … All use the same basic block and use the Easy Angle Ruler. The class will have you making half square triangles with ease and you’ll be well on your way to finishing the top!

You can use your scraps … or choose to make a 2 colour quilt (like the blue one).

November 30: Winter Branches Table Runner

This is an easy table runner to make and you should finish the top in class. It’ll be perfect for Christmas gifts! Semina can make you a kit, or you can use your own fabrics.

Stitching Time

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: 234 / 272
  • Oct :  0 / 2
  • Total:  234 / 274
  • Percentage = 85% 

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!

  • Fabric Used since the last report   0  yards
  • Fabric Used this year:       77 yards
  • Fabric Bought this week:   4 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    18 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:                59 yards 

To Do

Linda from Texas Quilt Gal is hosting “To Do” every week.

The To Do list from several weeks ago:

  1. Work on Secret Quilt (The deadline is soon … so it’s almost all I’m working on) √   top is DONE
  2. Winter Branches table runner … I’m making this as a leader & ender … will be teaching it at Essem in November √   top is DONE
  3. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder!  √   DONE
  4. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes  not DONE – I wasn’t home

This week’s list:

  1. Finish Secret Quilt
  2. Winter Branches table runner – if I finish Secret Quilt, I’ll work on this!
  3. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  4. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes

Design Wall

Donna, at Small Quilts and Doll Quilts, hosts a linky party for “What’s on your Design Wall” every week.

Need to Sandwich:

Winter Branches Table Runner

Quilting:

Secret Quilt …

Upcoming Blog Hops

Pinktober is hosted by Brianna of Sew Cute and Quirky and Island Batik … my day is October 13!

Creatin’ in the Sticks: Music Blog hop

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

October: Monthly Colour Challenge

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The Spicy Colour Challenge is from Patterns by Jen. Each month she has a unique block based on the Spice of the month. The pattern is free for the month … after the month is over, you can purchase the month’s block for a small fee … OR you can purchase the entire pattern from Jen!

October’s spice is SAGE.

Sage is a plant that I have grown in my garden for years! Here in the Pacific Wet Coast (south western British Columbia) it grows easily. I use it mostly for poultry dishes … especially stuffing for chicken and turkey. YUM!!! I don’t need to dry or freeze it, because even in the winter it’s ready for picking!

Here is my Sage block – made with Island Batik fabrics!

And a picture of all 11 blocks … waiting for the last 2 blocks to assemble into a beautiful quilt!

Visit the other quilters who are featuring a sage block!

Other Sage Bloggers

My Sage Quilts

Both of these are quilts made with Island Batik fabrics. The one on the left was made for a Storm at Sea challenge and you can read about it HERE. The one on the right was made recently for a Gadget Blog hop and you can read about it HERE. Both quilts use Hobbs batting and are pieced either on my Featherweight or my Janome M7 and are quilted on my domestic Janome M7.

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

The Quilt Keeper

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I was contacted by Ellen this summer. She sent me a Quilt Keeper and asked me to blog about my experience with it.

So, who’s Ellen? Ellen Taurins is a quilter who originally designed the Quilt Keeper for hanging her own quilts. She’s obviously a very clever lady!

The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was the quality of the product! It is superb! It is extremely well build and very professional looking! I hung a variety of my favourite Island Batik quilts and took pictures. Don’t they look lovely hanging on the back of the door?

There is a video HERE that will explain how easy it is to use.

The Quilt Keeper will fit any regular door! It comes with foam inserts should you need to adjust it at the top (I didn’t). It’s very easy to hang and switch out the quilts. It actually took me longer to fold each quilt than it did to hang it! So simple to use! If you’re looking for a way to store some of your quilts and show off some of your quilts – this might just be what you’re looking for!

Ellen has a facebook page where you can see many more pictures of the Quilt Keeper! There’s even one with a Christmas quilt and a red bow … makes me think it might make a wonderful Christmas gift for a quilter in your life! Or for yourself!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Queen of Gadgets Blog Hop

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Oh me, oh my! What a blog hop this promises to be!!! Gadgets, gadgets, gadgets … I have a few! Do I need to pick just one??? Carol, from Just Let me Quilt, organized this blog hop and I signed up right away!!!

But before I started, I decided that I needed to actually define what a “gadget” is. According to Mirriam-Webster a gadget is “an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty.”

Hmmm, to me, I have always considered a gadget something that makes my quilting easier. Sometimes the “gadget” is electronical, sometimes mechanical, but always is practical and useful. Hence, I’m going with my own definition of “gadget.”

I will show you the gadgets that I used for this project. I doubt this will make me the Queen of Gadgets, but even I was surprised at how many I actually used!

Gadget #1

EQ8

I used EQ8 to design this quilt using Island Batik’s “Pumpkin Spice,” a signature collection for Sarah Fabian, designed by Kathy Engle. I had received a 10″ stack, along with a 2 yard cut of “Celery” (which I used for the background) and a 2 yard cut of “Bluegrass” which I used for the binding.

And yes, just in case you were wondering, I recently upgraded from EQ7 to 8. A tiny learning curve, but lots of features I really really like! Well worth upgrading! Wish I’d done it sooner!

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