Quilting

Sunday Synopsis October 29th

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A Good News Story

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!

Mystery Quilt is happening!

WIP-B-Gone

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 Do list from last week: 

  1. Finish UFO project: Upholstery Wallet progress, but not finished
  2. Start “Turkey Trot” project progress, but not finished
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics Not done
  4. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow” progress, but not finished
  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 Upholstery Wallet
  2. Work on “Turkey Trot” project
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  4. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow”
  5. Complete next “2023 Fall Mystery Quilt” clue.
  6. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  7. 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:

  1. Upholstery Wallet
  2. Work on “Turkey Trot” project
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics

Quilting:

“Dashing Through the Snow”

Upcoming Blog Hops

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)

Just Let Me Quilt: White Rabbit (January 23. 2024)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash Blog Hop

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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!

Monday October 23

Tuesday October 24

Wednesday October 25

Thursday October 26

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Sunday Synopsis October 22

/ quiltinggail / 10 Comments

Classic Cars: Monthly Colour Challenge

October’s Classic Car colour is Blue. Visit Patterns by Jen HERE for your free download of this month’s block …

Here’s my October block (Blue), followed by the rest of the monthly blocks. I’ve used scraps of Island Batik for all of my blocks.

Mystery Quilt is happening!

WIP-B-Gone

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.

As I said in an earlier post, my sewing room is was a total disaster. So, I decided that the challenge for me will include DAILY cleaning/tidying and Sewing. The blue portion of the sewing machine is Tidy/Clean and the Orange is Sewing. I’m amazed at how consistant I’m am with cleaning /tidying! If you know me, you know that’s normal for me! So, I’m thanking Leanne for the motivation!

Getting Ready for a Retreat

I’m going to a retreat this week … 5 fabulous days of sewing. I’m sew looking forward to it! I have a few things packed, but is it enough? Probably! But I need to take more … just in case! Here’s the list of what I have ready to take:

  • Classic Car Monthly Colour Challenge
  • UFO: Upholstery Wallet
  • Meadow Mist Mystery … to cut out and catch up
  • Fabric to cut with the guild’s Accuquilt

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:  22 / 22
  • Total: 278 / 295
  • 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 finished this “Splendor” and posted about it on Friday (HERE). It is a free pattern from Sew Can She. You can access the pattern HERE. Although, I admit that I made it a lot bigger and added several borders.

Yearly Tally:

  • Fabric Used since the last report: 10.5 yards
  • Fabric Used in 2023:    180 yards  from non-IB: 79.5
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    17.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:             169.5 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 Do list from last week: 

  1. Finish Quilting and binding “Splendor” √   DONE
  2. Finish “Monster Mash” project √   DONE and the post is written and scheduled
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics Not done
  4. Finish November IB challenge √   DONE just need to do a photo shoot and finish writing the blog post
  5. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow” Not done
  6. Quilt and bind “Splendor” progress, but not finished
  7. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √   DONE
  8. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes. √   DONE

This week’s list: (purple highlight is priority #1 & 2)

  1. Finish UFO project: Upholstery Wallet
  2. Start “Turkey Trot” project
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  4. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow”
  5. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  6. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes.

A Pet Peeve

This week, I checked to see if a certain local quilt store was open and what time they closed. Yup, Google and their website said they were open. SO 🚗 I drove 25 minutes to get to the store … their usual sandwich board was not outside … I thought that was strange. Went up to the door and the sign said “CLOSED,” will open the 3rd week of October. It was the 3rd week of October!!!! So I sent them an email to complain. They said, “Sorry” but said they had changed it on Google. I went to Google and it said “Open” and they would close at 4. I took a screenshot and sent it to them. Although now, 4 days later, it is finally updated on Google.

So basically an hour of MY time was wasted … If I knew of another store within driving distance that sold Glide thread, I’d go there. GRRRR …. I have an Aurifil thread that is close in colour to the Glide thread I wanted, so I’ll be using it to quilt “Dashing Through the Snow.”

Design Wall

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

Piecing projects:

  1. Work on “Upholstery Wallet”
  2. Work on “Turkey Trot” project

Quilting:

  • “Dashing Through the Snow”

Upcoming Blog Hops

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash (My day is Oct 26)

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

A Beautiful Friday Finish!

/ quiltinggail / 20 Comments

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)
  • Batting is Hobbs 80/20
  • Pieced with Aurifil thread
  • Quilted with Glide “Amethyst”

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Fall ’23: Layer Cake Mystery: Clue #4

/ quiltinggail / 5 Comments

59” x 59”

Fabric Requirements and Clues can be found by clicking on the appropriate Clues below:

CLUE #4

Clue #4: Making Half-Square Triangles

Take the (36) 7.5” x 7.5” squares from Clue #2, put the pairs right sides together. Mark the diagonal line.  Sew a scant ¼” on each side of the diagonal line. Cut apart.  Each pair will yield 2 Half Square Triangles.  Press to the dark side.  DO NOT SQUARE THEM UP!!   I repeat DO NOT SQUARE THEM UP!!  

In order to save your printer ink, I did not include the above pictures in the pdf. The pdf will provide you with enough information to complete this clue without the actual pictures.

Here is a pdf of Clue #3 if you want to have a paper copy.

clue-4-fall-23-mystery-quilt-1022-squaresDownload

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Sunday Synopsis

/ quiltinggail / 23 Comments

A Heavy Heart

It is with a heavy heart that I tell you about my friend, Carmen’s, devastating fire. This newslink has more details. Some of you may have Prairie Spririt Alpaca/wool pressing mats, bought the WARM socks or her yarn …

Carmen is OK. She’s mourning the loss of several alpacas, chickens and the alpaca guard dog, not to mention the barn and the winter’s supply of hay. There is a go-fund me page, if you’re inclined to donate.

Mystery Quilt is happening!

WIP-B-Gone

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.

As I said in an earlier post, my sewing room is was a total disaster. So, I decided that the challenge for me will include DAILY cleaning/tidying and Sewing. The blue portion of the sewing machine is Tidy/Clean and the Orange is Sewing. The sewing room is looking better, my embroidery thread drawers are neat and tidy!

Cleaning???

Hmmm … the rest of my house is not being cleaned! Does that mean I’m sewing enough?

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:  15 / 15
  • Total: 271 / 288
  • 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 finished this Pattern Test quilt for Songbird Designs. It used 10.5 yards of Island Batik fabric. You can read about it HERE.

Yearly Tally:

  • Fabric Used since the last report: 10.5 yards
  • Fabric Used in 2023:    169.5 yards  from non-IB: 69
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    17.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:             159 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 Do list from last week: 

  1. Quilt and bind “Splendor” progress, but not finished
  2. Make flange binding and Bind “Pin Dot Floral” Quilt #3 √   DONE
  3. MAKE on “Monster Mash” project progress, but not finished
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics Not done
  5. Work on November IB challenge progress, but not finished
  6. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow” Not done
  7. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √   DONE
  8. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes. √   DONE

This week’s list: (purple highlight is priority #1 , 2 & 3)

  1. Finish Quilting and binding “Splendor”
  2. Finish “Monster Mash” project
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  4. Finish November IB challenge
  5. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow”
  6. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  7. 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.

Piecing projects:

  1. Work on “IB November” project
  2. Work on “Monster Mash” project

Quilting:

  • “Splendor”
  • “Dashing Through the Snow”

Upcoming Blog Hops

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash (My day is Oct 26)

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Friday, Oct. 13th

/ quiltinggail / 16 Comments

One of my sweet followers sent me this meme on Instagram. I obviously fell in love with it! Thanks ioleene!

Now unlimited sewing supplies! That’s up my alley. On Thanksgiving weekend, a local fabric store (if you can call 30 minutes away, local) had a 50% off notions sale. I went over and bought a few goodies. Nothing too exciting … pins to use on my design board, iron-on 1/4” tape for helping with zipper insertion, some magnets and a few zippers.

Pattern Testing

I tested the “Starry Path” pattern for my friend and fellow Island Batik Ambassador, Brenda. She has this and another pattern available on her blog, Songbird Designs (click HERE).

And yes, I did change the pattern a bit … but isn’t it gorgeous? I used the “Wild Blooms” fabric collection along with solid white. The Half Square Triangles were cut with an Accuquilt die. Brenda’s pattern provides instructions for using Accuquilt dies. Hobbs batting (80/20) is in the middle. “Ghost” is the fabric on the back. The The custom quilting used various rulers and quilted with my domestic Janome M7.

Here’s some more pictures of the quilt: It almost looks like stained glass from the back with the sun shining through. In June, I showed you the unquilted back when I posted about Kelly Young’s book, “Perfectly Pieced Quilt Backs.”

Island Batik Ambassador

Have you ever considered applying to become an Island Batik Ambassador? They are accepting applications NOW. Here is the LINK. The application explains what is expected from Ambassadors and the benefits being an Ambassador. It’s a challenging program, but I absolutely LOVE it!

If you apply, just make sure you take my email off and put your own in! In the past, I’ve had a few people ask me to ‘vote’ for them or ‘put in a good word’ for them. It doesn’t work that way … each Ambassador needs to apply each year – even we don’t know if we’ll be accepted or not. But fill in the application if you’re interested!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

Linking to:

Sunday Synopsis

/ quiltinggail / 8 Comments

This weekend is Thanksgiving weekend in Canada! Happy Thanksgiving!

Mystery Quilt has begun!

WIP-B-Gone

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.

My sewing room is a total disaster. In spite of me cleaning for 30 minutes each week. I decided that the challenge will include DAILY cleaning/tidying and Sewing … The blue portion of the sewing machine is Tidy/Clean and the Orange is Sewing. I’m aiming for at least 15 minutes of cleaning each day and my usual 30 minutes (or more) of quilting each day. I’d rather quilt than clean … that’s why the picture on October 3rd doesn’t have half a sewing machine coloured for cleaning!

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:  8 / 8
  • Total: 264 / 281
  • 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!

I have 1 finish to show you this week. This was my Island Batik “Falling for Accuquilt” challenge. It used the North Carolina Star die. There are 53 pieces in each block and 4 blocks in this quilt. That’s a lot of pieces for a 27″ square table topper! You can read more about this HERE.

Yearly Tally:

  • Fabric Used since the last report: 2.5 yards
  • Fabric Used in 2023:    159 yards  from non-IB: 69
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    17.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:             148.5 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 Do list from last week: 

  1. Make backing for “Splendor” and sandwich √   DONE
  2. Finish quilting Pin Dot Floral Quilt #3 and bind progress, but not finished
  3. Work on “Monster Mash” project Not done
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics Not done
  5. Work on November IB challenge progress, but not finished
  6. Get “Dashing Through the Snow” sandwiched. √   DONE
  7. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! √   DONE
  8. Tidy & clean studio for 30 minutes. √   DONE

This week’s list: (purple highlight is priority #1 , 2 & 3)

  1. Quilt and bind “Splendor”
  2. Make flange binding and Bind “Pin Dot Floral” Quilt #3
  3. MAKE “Monster Mash” project
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  5. Work on November IB challenge
  6. Quilt and bind “Dashing Through the Snow”
  7. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  8. 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.

Piecing projects:

  1. Make flange binding for “Pin Dot Floral” Quilt #3
  2. Make “Monster Mash” project
  3. Work on “IB November” project

Quilting:

  • “Splendor”
  • “Dashing Through the Snow”

Upcoming Blog Hops

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash (My day is Oct 26)

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Falling for Accuquilt

/ quiltinggail / 24 Comments

I LOVE ❤️ using Accuquilt dies and this month is no exception. We received the “North Carolina Star” and were told to use it “to showcase our quilting skills and creativity.” It was suggested to use fall colours and to make any project that we wanted!

The North Carolina Star die is a “block on board.” This means that each of the pattern pieces are included on the die.

We were also told that we didn’t have to make the North Carolina Star, but could make anything using pieces from this die. I briefly thought that I could use the square (in the middle) and make a simple 9 patch quilt. But, that would also be called ‘cheating,’ in my opinion.

I have many different collections of fall fabric, thus it was easy to choose one. Autumn Wings looked promising!

I made a trial block:

The trial block will be made into a tote bag sometime in the near future.

I went to EQ8 and got a North Carolina Star block, but it wasn’t the same … it didn’t have the quarter square triangle sections and a few other details. In my attempt to draw the block, EQ8 and I had a disagreement, with EQ8 saying that it couldn’t convert my block to something or other. And, I admit, that my EQ8 skills are lacking. So I had to use the block in the library.

I came up with the middle quilt, but felt it was too busy … the quilt on the right was more to my liking.

I forgot to take pictures as I made the blocks! But I will tell you that I had the instructions right beside me. There are so many pieces and my seam ripper was occasionally friendly with me! 😁

Table Topper Stats:

  • Size: 27″ x 27″
  • Fabric: Island Batik “Autumn Wings” collection and Ghost (available anytime)
  • Piecing: Aurifil Thread 50 wt: 2600 (Dove Grey)
  • Quilting: Stitch in the Ditch with Aurifil Thread 50 wt: 2370 (Sandstone)
  • Batting: Hobbs Batting: Thermore (I like the lightness for table toppers!)
  • Needles: Schmetz Needles

It was a beautiful fall day when I took the pictures in my yard! I really like the pictures on the burning bush and ornamental maple!

There are many places you can find Autumn Wings, but the few that caught my eye are:

  • Quilt in a Day – California
  • Castles – Langley BC. 🇨🇦 This is about a 15 minute drive from my house!!!

I would like to thank Island Batik,  Aurifil Thread,  Hobbs Batting,  Schmetz Needles,  and Accuquilt for providing me with the fabric and supplies I used to complete this project!

Island Batik Ambassadors

Visit the other Island Batik Ambassadors as they show their beautiful creations using the North Carolina Star die.

Brenda Alburl ~ Songbird Designs
Renee Atkinson ~ Pink Tulip Quilting
Pamela Boatright ~ PamelaQuilts
Susan Deshensky ~ Lady Blue Quilts
Brittany Fisher ~ Bobbin with Brittany

Preeti Harris ~ Sew Preeti Quilts
Mania Hatziioannidi ~ Mania for quilts
Reed Johnson ~ Blue Bear Quilts
Victoria Johnson ~ Forever Quilting for You
Randi Jones ~ Randi’s Roost

Connie Kauffman ~ Kauffman Designs
Emily Leachman ~ The Darling Dogwood
Denise Looney ~ Quiltery – For The Love Of Geese
Leah Malasky ~ Quilted Delights
Maryellen McAuliffe ~ Mary Mack Made Mine

Anorina Morris ~ sameliasmum.com
Lisa Pickering ~ Lisa’s Quilting Passion
Sarah Pitcher ~ Pitcher’s Boutique
Claudia Porter ~ Create with Claudia 
Lana Russel ~ Lana Quilts

Elita Sharpe ~ Busy Needle
Gail Sheppard ~ Quilting Gail You’re HERE!!!
Sandra Starley ~ Textile Time Travels
Jennifer Thomas ~ Curlicue Creations
Suzy Webster ~ Websterquilt

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Monday Moments Oct 2

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A Winner!

When I posted about my “Pieced to Perfection” blog hop, I said that there would. be a give-away for those that left comments on the post. I put the 22 names in an excel sheet and used a random number generator and #8, Eva, is the winner. The fabric will be on it’s way to her later this week.

Mystery Quilt has begun!

Clue #1 is on THIS POST.

WIP-B-Gone

Leanne, of Devoted Quilter is hosting a WIPS-B-Gone ’23 challenge. This fun challenge started yesterday! 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.

My sewing room is a total disaster. In spite of me cleaning for 30 minutes each week. I decided that the challenge will include DAILY cleaning/tidying and Sewing … The blue portion of the sewing machine is Tidy/Clean and the Orange is Sewing.

Yesterday, during family zoom quilting, my shoulders were getting sore from quilting and I tidied and cleaned up A LOT! Hopefully, I can keep doing the tidying … until there is nothing left to tidy 🤪!

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 – August:  255 / 272
  • October:  1 / 1
  • Total: 256 / 273
  • 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!

No finishes to report: no shopping …

Yearly Tally:

  • Fabric Used since the last report: 0 yards
  • Fabric Used in 2023:    157.5 yards  from non-IB: 68
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    17.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:             146 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 Do list from last week: 

  1. Get “Splendor” Quilt to flimsy stage √   DONE
  2. Finish quilting Pin Dot Floral Quilt #3. progress, but not finished
  3. Work on “Monster Mash” project. progress, but not finished
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics. Not done
  5. Get “Dashing Through the Snow” to flimsy stage. √   DONE
  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. Make backing for “Splendor” and sandwich
  2. Finish quilting Pin Dot Floral Quilt #3 and bind
  3. Work on “Monster Mash” project
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  5. Work on November IB challenge
  6. Get “Dashing Through the Snow” sandwiched
  7. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  8. 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.

Piecing projects:

  1. “Splendor” Quilt: Make backing
  2. Work on “Monster Mash” project
  3. Work on “IB November” project

Quilting:

  • Pin Dot floral #3

Upcoming Blog Hops

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash (My day is Oct 26)

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

Just Let Me Quilt: Virtual Christmas Cookie Exchange and Christmas Blog Hop (December 4)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

PHD in 2023: September Report

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Did you decide to join us with PHD in 2023???

Are you determined to finish a bunch of UFOs and to NOT increase the number of quilts or projects on your UFO list???

Congratulations on making that choice!!!

Something New to Try

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. Do you?

I thought I’d give this a try … Leanne has several different trackers to choose from and they each have 61 icons for you to colour for each day that you work on a Work in Progress. It’s free!! It sounds like fun and if it motivates me further to get projects done, done, done – I’m IN!!! We’ll see how it goes! And, I have already downloaded the sewing machine tracker. But there are other trackers for you to choose from … the choice is yours! Are you going to try it as well?

My Tally Sheets

This month, I finished the “Pieced to Perfection” quilts (see HERE), the Dog pouches (see HERE) and the Shweshwe pouch (see HERE).

And again, no UFOs finished this month! Maybe next month!

Here’s my tally sheet:

If you want to keep track of your own progress, please feel free to download the 2023 Template.

template-2023Download

Here’s my Task Sheet of 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.

Linky Party

Show us your progress with your PHD in 2023! Or show us what YOU are celebrating in the quilting realm!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

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

Cheryl, from Meadow Mist Designs hosts a monthly linky party where you post your favourite quilt of the month.

These quilts were my favourite this month!

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Monday Moments: Sept 25 ’23

/ quiltinggail / 16 Comments

Classic Cars: Monthly Colour Challenge

September”s Classic Car colour is Mustard. Visit Patterns by Jen HERE for your free download of this month’s block …

Here’s my September block, followed by the rest of the monthly blocks. I’ve used scraps of Island Batik for all of my blocks.

September: Mustard

Are you ready for a Mystery Quilt?

I will be hosting a Mystery Quilt here on my blog starting Wednesday, September 27. The clues will be posted every Wednesday for 8 or 9 weeks.

When I originally made this quilt, I used a Kansas Troubles layer cake. I will be making this quilt along with you using a 10″ stack of Island Batik fabric: “Cheers” and Dandelion – plum.

The quilt will finish at 59″ x 59″

Fabric Requirements:

  • A 10″ stack (or layer cake) that has at least 39 squares. (Yes, you can use fabric from your stash if you wish) The pattern tester used 20 squares from a layer cake and 20 squares from a coordinating fabric that she cut herself. Both quilts look great!
  • Background: Fabric 1 ¼  yard   or 1.1 m
  • Binding: ¾ yard or 0.8 m

I might have caught a bug!

A knitting bug! When I was in Newfoundland, my sister-in-law was knitting socks. It’s been a long time since I knit, but I knew it would occupy my hands during the airport waits and the flight home. So I went and bought the necessary supplies.

Now, I know that I struggle with hand sewing hurting my hands, but knitting doesn’t seem to be as bad! And it’s great to do while watching tv at night.

Yesterday, I went to Knit City in Vancouver. My friend, Carmen, that runs owns and runs Prairie Spirit Alpacas was there … A few items popped into my bag … including another alpaca/wool pressing mat! I LOVE my mat and figured that 2 on my ironing board would be just fine!

The variegated blue/teal will be a toque and a scarf and the green/beige/grey will be a Beanie with a polar bear on it.

Pieced to Perfection

Did you see all of the fantastic Island Batik quilts in the Pieced to Perfection Blog Hop? Visit Island Batik’s blog for a recap. Click HERE. Or … see them all on my Instagram: HERE.

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 – August:  249 / 266
  • September:  24 / 24
  • Total: 263 / 276
  • Percentage: 95%

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!

These zipper pouches used about 1.5 yards of fabric … You can read about them Here and Here.

Yearly Tally:

  • Fabric Used since the last report: 1.5 yards
  • Fabric Used in 2023:    157.5 yards  from non-IB: 68
  • Fabric Bought this week:  0 yards
  • Fabric Added this year:    17.5 yards 
  • Net Fabric used:             146 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 Do list from a few weeks ago: 

  1. Get “Splendor” Quilt to flimsy stage: FIX those mistakes !!!!! Mistakes fixed … progress, but not finished
  2. Work on Pin Dot Floral Quilt. It is being quilted progress, but not finished
  3. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics. Not done
  4. Finish “It’s a Dog’s Life” project – completed and posted … √   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. Get “Splendor” Quilt to flimsy stage
  2. Finish quilting Pin Dot Floral Quilt #3
  3. Work on “Monster Mash” project
  4. Cut out Malted Mystery Fabrics
  5. Get “Dashing Through the Snow” to flimsy stage
  6. Do NOT be distracted by any SQUIRRELS! I NEED this continual reminder! 
  7. 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.

Piecing projects:

  1. Test quilt “Dashing through the Snow.” I’m using blues from my stash and it definitely is NOT Christmas or wintery.
  2. “Splendor” Quilt: Mistakes fixed now to add borders (Can you see the difference?)
  3. Work on “Monster Mash” project

This picture shows “Splendor” blocks unfixed and fixed!

Quilting:

  • Pin Dot floral #3

Upcoming Blog Hops

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Monster Mash (My day is Oct 26)

Island Batik November Blog Hop: (November 1 is my day)

Moose Stash Quilting: Sew It – Show It: Turkey Trot (November 13 is my day)

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Shweshwe Fabric and TGIFF

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I’m hosting TGIFF this week … scroll down to see the link up.

But first, I’ll show you my finish for the week:

When I was in South Africa in 2019, I went to a fabric store in Cape Town, “Lowry’s Fabrics.”

In the picture below, the red, blue and green fabrics are Shweshwe fabrics with the 3 Cat label on the back. You can buy Shweshwe fabrics from a Canadian store: Meerkat Shweshwe and they ship worldwide.

Shweshwe fabric is a heavier fabric, not as heavy as canvas, but much heavier than quilting cotton. When I first bought it, it felt like a board! But after washing, it softened considerably!

I had made my daughter a small zipper pouch a few years ago. She recently asked if I could make one a little bigger, with possibly a pocket inside?

Of course, I said, “yes!” It’s not like I have no deadlines or other sewing to do!!! LOL!!! 😄

Once it was cut out, it didn’t take long to make. And yes, the inside pocket is also Shweshwe fabric. The lining is from fabric that was hanging around, waiting to be used!

Shweshwe fabric is perfect for bags!

TGIFF

TGIFF (Thank Goodness it’s Finished Friday) is a weekly link party for participants to show their finishes for the week!).

As well as the Shweshwe pouch above, I also finished a group of zipper pouches for the blog hop: It’s a Dog’s Life … you can read about them HERE.

Here is the Link for you to link up your FINISHED project:

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

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

Coming Soon!

I will be hosting a Mystery Quilt here on my blog starting Wednesday, September 27. The clues will be posted every Wednesday for 8 or 9 weeks.

When I originally made this quilt, I used a Kansas Troubles layer cake. I will be making this quilt along with you using a 10″ stack of Island Batik fabric.

The quilt will finish at 59″ x 59″

Fabric Requirements:

  • A 10″ stack (or layer cake) that has at least 39 squares. (Yes, you can use fabric from your stash if you wish) The pattern tester used 20 squares from a layer cake and 20 squares from a coordinating fabric that she cut herself. Both quilts look great!
  • Background: Fabric 1 ¼  yard   or 1.1 m
  • Binding: ¾ yard or 0.8 m

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

Linking to:

Sew It – Show it: It’s a Dog’s Life

/ quiltinggail / 33 Comments

Carol, from Just Let Me Quilt, is the organizer and host of this fun blog hop!

Here’s what she had to say:

Sew your project with dog themed fabric or applique/embroidery of dogs

She also gave an option of doing something vintage … but not for me … I’m going with the dogs! 🐶

I have made a few dog quilts over the years … and the 2 doxie pillows were made by my friend, Linda! So I just had to include them – they are so darn cute!

I had a LOT of scraps left from the last 2 quilts. They were all in one container! BONUS!!! and I’ve mixed them up and paired them up and cut them up … and made a bunch of “doggie bags!” Using some of my 7″ stash of zippers.

Here they are, 8 little zipper pouches:

Blog Hoppers

SEPTEMBER 18

SEPTEMBER 19

SEPTEMBER 20

SEPTEMBER 21

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting!    
Gail 

A Couple of Finishes to show you

/ quiltinggail / 11 Comments

Did you see my post earlier this week? The one with the Island Batik “Pieced to Perfection” quilts?

These were made with the fabric collection “Copper Patina.” These collections should be shipping to your local stores in October. To read more about these quilts and If you want an opportunity to win fabric from this collection make sure you comment on the original POST, HERE.

Coming Soon!

I will be hosting a Mystery Quilt here on my blog starting Wednesday, September 27. The clues will be posted every Wednesday for 8 or 9 weeks.

When I originally made this quilt, I used a Kansas Troubles layer cake. I will be making this quilt along with you using a 10″ stack of Island Batik fabric.

The quilt will finish at 59″ x 59″

Fabric Requirements:

  • A 10″ stack (or layer cake) that has at least 39 squares. (Yes, you can use fabric from your stash if you wish) The pattern tester used 20 squares from a layer cake and 20 squares from a coordinating fabric that she cut herself. Both quilts look great!
  • Background: Fabric 1 ¼  yard   or 1.1 m
  • Binding: ¾ yard or 0.8 m

One who sleeps under a quilt is covered by LOVE!

Happy Quilting! 
Gail 

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