tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-92066444083013279572024-02-19T18:04:44.479-08:00My Patchwork PalaceDebrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-60189347001965537082013-12-31T19:08:00.001-08:002013-12-31T19:08:18.649-08:00Belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!This is the first post I've done using my iPad for photo taking and writing post. If it works out it'll sure make it a lot easier to post more often.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYgBxdkIl8xMn0Rlu026XwooH16SaeZGPS5693V_pw90qOJpyOW0pNjXjD8gwpAhuFJpQu3EwOkLrWh7RqkFD2TaecSUkjyMPfC73tor8Mzw_cDQSStJ-XPtvc20Xf-8AvFsOYK7LrT8Jd/s640/blogger-image--741591295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYgBxdkIl8xMn0Rlu026XwooH16SaeZGPS5693V_pw90qOJpyOW0pNjXjD8gwpAhuFJpQu3EwOkLrWh7RqkFD2TaecSUkjyMPfC73tor8Mzw_cDQSStJ-XPtvc20Xf-8AvFsOYK7LrT8Jd/s640/blogger-image--741591295.jpg"></a></div>So Christmas is over but I thought I'd share a few pics of my Xmas decorating. I was very pleased with my decorating this year, the house looks very Christmassy even though my children are the only ones to see it!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_KKVlPyFt06RUFhGcA3jyAduo0jOJYIyYylWh5v8Vb7185mxVMYzI9vjd4BVZrXRHOmOarUPsYa0MEgCkz8ZVvbLu-h3KnC7B4YRXwl8uvsNSuRaCUezdybEHpEFnxtYdViv-Ws1V_Z-/s640/blogger-image-1608370578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_KKVlPyFt06RUFhGcA3jyAduo0jOJYIyYylWh5v8Vb7185mxVMYzI9vjd4BVZrXRHOmOarUPsYa0MEgCkz8ZVvbLu-h3KnC7B4YRXwl8uvsNSuRaCUezdybEHpEFnxtYdViv-Ws1V_Z-/s640/blogger-image-1608370578.jpg"></a></div>We spent Christmas Day at my parents house, we had a lovely lunch, thanks Mum.x<div><br></div><div>I'm on holidays at the moment which is nice since the lead up to Christmas was fairly stressful at work. This year is going to be a big year of change for me, I'll be trying hard to be positive.</div><div><br></div><div>After sharing the family home with my estranged husband for 3 years he is moving out in a couple of weeks. Bit scary but at least I'll have Jack around for a while longer, don't think he's going to leave home for a couple of years.</div><div><br></div><div>The positive is I'll have more space for my creative endeavours. The negative is I need to find another job which means less time to be creative! I guess it will all work out eventually.</div><div><br></div><div>I have 2 weeks to sort myself out, find some space in my sewing room and get moving! Here's to a happy productive new year for everybody.</div><div><br></div><div>Happy Stitching</div><div><br></div><div>Debra.x<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJ8AL8P58H_P1d6z5L27PR71X9x7_2XuNTlLWZYjakUP_ir4ctsJKnd2lpvb8OX4pAsSvE2hJBR7xQXdAzTZbU9xF2h6k7RHjeEP5OiZ4Qcth0rEHwSHvZwpcMQeudQG2YBKTcwY1I53N/s640/blogger-image-1796178080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJ8AL8P58H_P1d6z5L27PR71X9x7_2XuNTlLWZYjakUP_ir4ctsJKnd2lpvb8OX4pAsSvE2hJBR7xQXdAzTZbU9xF2h6k7RHjeEP5OiZ4Qcth0rEHwSHvZwpcMQeudQG2YBKTcwY1I53N/s640/blogger-image-1796178080.jpg"></a></div></div>Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-83300243378432351692013-10-24T05:49:00.000-07:002013-10-24T05:49:07.294-07:00My Creative Slump<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTB73lsE-93vI0pgHVqo_srzEvn2sX_uRwtFOyeQF1zITr9eYIUc4_e1Qm8rW_6MsFHdRXFMuXhI6aCwuYf0rGV1yx3TsQBROXQy6oVSj5ghcL4Jv1ki3OBH0CKu3z2B76lICcF04ORWzy/s1600/DSC02050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTB73lsE-93vI0pgHVqo_srzEvn2sX_uRwtFOyeQF1zITr9eYIUc4_e1Qm8rW_6MsFHdRXFMuXhI6aCwuYf0rGV1yx3TsQBROXQy6oVSj5ghcL4Jv1ki3OBH0CKu3z2B76lICcF04ORWzy/s400/DSC02050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I've been in a creative slump for the last few weeks. I've spent many hours looking for inspiration (time wasting). I did finish sewing the blocks together for my Scrappy Trip Around the World quilt top. I can add it to the pile of tops waiting to be quilted. <br />
<br />
After spending a few weeks struggling with the blocks for the Orca Bay quilt I'd started, I finally decided that it needed to be put away again. I've seen many photos of finished Orca Bays on Bonnie Hunter's Facebook feed. They look really fabulous but I found mine just wasn't going well. I was getting very frustrated and realised I wasn't enjoying the piecing at all. An eighth of an inch can seem huge when your triangles aren't matching up like they're supposed to. I eventually decided that if it was making me unhappy it just wasn't worth working on at the moment. It made me doubt my abilities and question why I was bothering to sew anything at all. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwtrJb2-4jjJ11Kpwi_SojKZQn6Q8F76RgSWebHHkUdiX_Qfhd-Ot2YVj2eaHkj8EeW0w9VOrvC9KBUJrSxpnmWjDvLGfy1hZvuqZ5Tse07Sz3n6pq2p-ZbAya6HWBsVQKDVziz3Qjwlb/s1600/DSC02061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwtrJb2-4jjJ11Kpwi_SojKZQn6Q8F76RgSWebHHkUdiX_Qfhd-Ot2YVj2eaHkj8EeW0w9VOrvC9KBUJrSxpnmWjDvLGfy1hZvuqZ5Tse07Sz3n6pq2p-ZbAya6HWBsVQKDVziz3Qjwlb/s400/DSC02061.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Once my anxiety took over I found it really hard to focus on any quilt related activity. I guess thats the down side of not belonging to a quilt group any more, I did enjoy the inspiration I got from stitching with friends.<br />
<br />
I have decided to start a new quilt and this churn dash is my first trial block. I have a gorgeous quilt pinned on my pinterest board thats a churn dash in pinks/reds/oranges I love the colour combo so I'll see how it goes. I didn't want anything with too many triangles, I'm all triangled out at the moment!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhybzdn3PeNNUq-wcucmnrmb8gCKogQtC3Jumiyw7flARvYxttyWWgGd2d0NLCP0BaWqMuoxF8wyyRkdAZhlxe_yedIMyYVbLmyo0ZeUrobHzdIU1zlzqzb9iewAxXMJ_df0iL3lOxXHa/s1600/DSC02052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhybzdn3PeNNUq-wcucmnrmb8gCKogQtC3Jumiyw7flARvYxttyWWgGd2d0NLCP0BaWqMuoxF8wyyRkdAZhlxe_yedIMyYVbLmyo0ZeUrobHzdIU1zlzqzb9iewAxXMJ_df0iL3lOxXHa/s400/DSC02052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The last couple of weeks we've had a few visits from these lovely ducks. I don't know how long ducks live but we've had a couple that have visited us over about the last ten years. Living next to the wetlands its not such a strange occurrence to have ducks around, they are lovely birds and they do enjoy a swim in the pool.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7GVttfexpzky10i71eufsL6H1mT5XzVVLVeLhkKYgeV7VTtfiLOYSPPX5YUmD3-E1XbNSodIRBgT0pTeTrhxTdBLDy-vB4IuR5RCv1H9C9-fSfVPYHChmJCi5zqr-vGI_VUOxRmj4WpMG/s1600/DSC02060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7GVttfexpzky10i71eufsL6H1mT5XzVVLVeLhkKYgeV7VTtfiLOYSPPX5YUmD3-E1XbNSodIRBgT0pTeTrhxTdBLDy-vB4IuR5RCv1H9C9-fSfVPYHChmJCi5zqr-vGI_VUOxRmj4WpMG/s400/DSC02060.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
This was too funny, Ruby sat next to the pool for about 20 minutes absolutely fascinated with the ducks. I was sure I was going to have to fish her out at some stage, she did get a bit too close to the edge but the ducks weren't worried. We have been having some very extreme weather lately, terrible winds for days at a time, a day over 30 when its not summer yet and then this week it has been very wintery, cold and raining a lot. At least we haven't had the dreadful weather they've been having in N.S.W. It's hard to believe they've had such terrible bush fires this early in the season. <br />
<br />
Hopefully next post I'll have some progress to share, progress on anything would be nice.<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching,<br />
<br />
Debra.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-66288032553120719462013-09-24T06:11:00.000-07:002013-09-24T06:11:40.883-07:00Spontaneous outing and making room in the quilt cupboard.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WD8vNGxmDNLnhCV_-8x1vSvgXMh9Z3AboV2XOxDtqnV1mfjAIvmxtPzN8VhPsJA42LY0BDmF6uL6hsagxwaOfpngTjEpTBhmG_sAUmKdItVmQTZdADSFb0xdm_mCjB1G__MIKl439E7x/s1600/DSC02046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WD8vNGxmDNLnhCV_-8x1vSvgXMh9Z3AboV2XOxDtqnV1mfjAIvmxtPzN8VhPsJA42LY0BDmF6uL6hsagxwaOfpngTjEpTBhmG_sAUmKdItVmQTZdADSFb0xdm_mCjB1G__MIKl439E7x/s400/DSC02046.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
This quilt was one of my first quilts I learnt to make in a class. It was way back in the mid 90s at a Quilt shop called Quilters Quarters. This was when country decorating was very popular and this quilt lived on my wall for quite a few years. It had been hiding out in my quilt cupboard until last week when prompted by our craft themed window at work I decided it was time for it to go. I found another small quilt that also was an early class piece and took it into the op shop as well. I donated quite a few ufo's which to start with I wasn't sure if I wanted to part with but after a second look I realised their time had come. I was very pleased that everything I put in the window found a new home, it's nice to think someone else will find a use for them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwlTEqDtrwlFq4j3s48Z30Qxz4Qb6yHbv5gk6bVGVJwm-RmNH0YG8jexz7msBbkiwaJsMOzEE3DNDB1Pw5mdGJXdpsnQnDHUSmmOkUUWdKKyFkW2ZRTyOxNKubdq9dWE_5nv75n5fUXPR/s1600/DSC02048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwlTEqDtrwlFq4j3s48Z30Qxz4Qb6yHbv5gk6bVGVJwm-RmNH0YG8jexz7msBbkiwaJsMOzEE3DNDB1Pw5mdGJXdpsnQnDHUSmmOkUUWdKKyFkW2ZRTyOxNKubdq9dWE_5nv75n5fUXPR/s400/DSC02048.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Recently I've been working on these Ohio star blocks, here's how many I've made so far. I like the contrast of the black, white and red. I'm not going to make the quilt as big as the pattern, i'm over little hourglass blocks for the moment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvS_9ff4kX3T_aMY6hfzIQWH9Hqpys7e7f_AdwIQ_QKHgFWFR9eSm5mhDEiZ24CY5zHR7b10P5jumH2RgVQ6CkgRX2YJvYUMyiMe3lRXy-wYLgJL8J-8P6dKaC1mqKQS4QkKxYqCTnJB-/s1600/DSC02049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvS_9ff4kX3T_aMY6hfzIQWH9Hqpys7e7f_AdwIQ_QKHgFWFR9eSm5mhDEiZ24CY5zHR7b10P5jumH2RgVQ6CkgRX2YJvYUMyiMe3lRXy-wYLgJL8J-8P6dKaC1mqKQS4QkKxYqCTnJB-/s400/DSC02049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
On Sunday I had a message from a friend in the morning suggesting a spontaneous trip to the country to visit a patchwork shop we'd been wanting to visit for ages. I like the idea of spontaneity but I'm not really good at it. However it didn't take too long for me to ditch my plans for the day and set off.<br />
<br />
It was a lovely spring day and we had a very pleasant drive to Ballan to visit Mill Rose Cottage. We headed straight to the adjoining cafe for a very nice lunch then on to what could only be described as quilters heaven. I'm very glad my fabric addiction is mostly under control, the fabric range was huge but it wasn't just a great range of fabrics there were lots of books and wool and interesting notions as well. As you can see I came home with a variety of goodies, there's no point driving all the way there and not showing them some support is there?<br />
<br />
I first saw the lovely crochet scarf at the shops' stand at the Quilt Convention in Melbourne 2 years ago. I couldn't resist any longer and as you can see I started crocheting it Sunday night. I am finding the instructions a tiny bit challenging, I'm sure I'll figure it out eventually. Some lovely wool fabrics, a couple of threads, needles only one piece of cotton fabric and a patchwork book completed my haul.<br />
<br />
On the home front it was Jacks birthday last week and this week it's my Mums turn. Aleisha has gone to Thailand for 12 days with some friends to celebrate her 21st birthday that was in August. It's Aleisha's first overseas holiday I'm sure she's having a great time. Jack is housesitting for his sister so I'm in for another couple of quiet weeks at home. No excuses for not getting stuck into some projects!<br />
<br />
Till next time Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-55185020908423839542013-09-08T08:30:00.000-07:002013-09-08T08:30:58.171-07:00String piece finish.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsaczpovbam52FYzGJr6RaZAdA3ytq0OPPjgC1MXEtcFhJQavUNwpMAkMJTKBN1do0scVVQur0-lk54TLVLzYu7QTDn2j_QsPePD_WmoWh_LteeMD02c4YSZpJRe9w-7tQmMTO-hzoncn/s1600/DSC02044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsaczpovbam52FYzGJr6RaZAdA3ytq0OPPjgC1MXEtcFhJQavUNwpMAkMJTKBN1do0scVVQur0-lk54TLVLzYu7QTDn2j_QsPePD_WmoWh_LteeMD02c4YSZpJRe9w-7tQmMTO-hzoncn/s400/DSC02044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
It's so nice to finish something, here's Harry modelling my latest finish! Day or night he's on call for any photographic work whether he's asked or not. I free motion quilted this on my machine, not very well but at least its finished. The backing was given to me by a friend and is a great match for the front I think. I found the binding in my stash and really like the contrast of the black with all the brights. Very satisfying to use some of my stash too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3mNRpb1jD6RmS0ZXrUcFk1MSe_V9_c3P2ZebVlekSDA2iuzYl6FoCQBukav25QYq0xbiI7s_xkXDLHIY1IKWuMxZqkR_-Wfn59OkPh9V36fvn3zTtFutKLNpfA7qa57A-INT_hYMp5_k/s1600/DSC02045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3mNRpb1jD6RmS0ZXrUcFk1MSe_V9_c3P2ZebVlekSDA2iuzYl6FoCQBukav25QYq0xbiI7s_xkXDLHIY1IKWuMxZqkR_-Wfn59OkPh9V36fvn3zTtFutKLNpfA7qa57A-INT_hYMp5_k/s400/DSC02045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Here's a better photo of the quilt. I really love making string quilts and want to start another one soon. I've got heaps more strings waiting to be used too.<br />
<br />
Today was very exciting, I bought myself a new laptop cause I was so fed up with my old one not working properly. Now I'll be able to get back to more regular posts I hope.<br />
<br />
I've had another major reorganisation of my sewing room, this time I took some of my fabric storage out and bought myself a new desk to make more working space, its really great now. My biggest challenge now is which project to work on first. I'm still hand quilting my Pink Lemonade quilt, I don't think I'll ever get it finished but I'll keep working on it anyway.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching,<br />
<br />
Debra.<br />
<br />
<br />Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-40548200229566432162013-08-06T07:06:00.002-07:002013-08-06T07:20:56.815-07:00What I've been up to....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hi there, here's a snapshot of some of the things that I've been doing since my last post. I think I've mentioned before that I've started an online art journalling course. 21 Secrets has 21 teachers each teaching a class that can be done in your own time and any order you wish. I wasn't sure if I wanted to share my work cause I'm no artist more of a wannabe but I'm really enjoying what I've done so far. This is the front page of my journal and it is one of the activities in a watercolour class with <a href="http://daisyyellowart.com/">Tammy Garcia</a>. I really enjoyed the class, I love painting with watercolours though they are harder to use than I first thought. I did improve as I did each exercise, I nearly gave up after the first one cause I found it very challenging. I had forgotten what it's like to be a beginner learning new skills.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9volHsGwAL0l_7syO9z2KSXCJvNTx35SqDiavgnm-ZXE2pG2AUm10BauSTtXNrvMjksl5oVxR9A7KcMXA5gSMogG1KORglfrXfrmxrSBVdc4aGtB3oOv9z2c7uz6wkWmiu6tIpEfdfE8-/s1600/DSC02026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9volHsGwAL0l_7syO9z2KSXCJvNTx35SqDiavgnm-ZXE2pG2AUm10BauSTtXNrvMjksl5oVxR9A7KcMXA5gSMogG1KORglfrXfrmxrSBVdc4aGtB3oOv9z2c7uz6wkWmiu6tIpEfdfE8-/s400/DSC02026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwzlKR56JHBHo4_EDfkhVyaALmWkDUpfDeuL6HeggnfGDaO8yoLxBRiT7RoDmAs-xVnmWox-eIw7HHhiV-alj4lW_AgwjuN59309BjaLYYOqsHGnkyuHCNTSZhdusE18kSlpi0kgaVmbl/s1600/DSC02028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwzlKR56JHBHo4_EDfkhVyaALmWkDUpfDeuL6HeggnfGDaO8yoLxBRiT7RoDmAs-xVnmWox-eIw7HHhiV-alj4lW_AgwjuN59309BjaLYYOqsHGnkyuHCNTSZhdusE18kSlpi0kgaVmbl/s400/DSC02028.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdptc1TTySQs0TeH6uhcWowL3P60wUDvTJvUoLoE-rB7XYtXNxUvQ3IFzuupS9z1rYSxVHtaTloP0VzeZ2LVtgXn4E6eeEaDciJFv8KeftxkdB31RRK9sDeTbHF0lxieWaG_YEl-7txWq/s1600/DSC02029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdptc1TTySQs0TeH6uhcWowL3P60wUDvTJvUoLoE-rB7XYtXNxUvQ3IFzuupS9z1rYSxVHtaTloP0VzeZ2LVtgXn4E6eeEaDciJFv8KeftxkdB31RRK9sDeTbHF0lxieWaG_YEl-7txWq/s400/DSC02029.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMQI4OXz6cK65uBZwMfQ9-6LTnXtsZYv0c84TELG_rBYCDNQ3wE9xwZ2BFlb9iZm4vtjItybBZtgpYmS9UHgPSLojxt8-hlGrsUp9_5zrd6CcZMqe2jCvAVTsY4fHHjxblyi5ccNntMul/s1600/DSC02033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMQI4OXz6cK65uBZwMfQ9-6LTnXtsZYv0c84TELG_rBYCDNQ3wE9xwZ2BFlb9iZm4vtjItybBZtgpYmS9UHgPSLojxt8-hlGrsUp9_5zrd6CcZMqe2jCvAVTsY4fHHjxblyi5ccNntMul/s400/DSC02033.JPG" width="400" /></a>I'm still having problems with my laptop for the life of me I have no idea what I'm doing wrong. It's the reason I haven't been posting more regulary it's very frustrating.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see Harry's not letting the stress get to him, relaxing is his specialty. If only he was so relaxed about getting his hair cut!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I survived the four weeks that Jack was away, it was very quiet but I made the most of my time. It's great to have him home again even if it now means we are sharing my car. While Jack was away I had to take the photos of my quilts as best as I could. I'm really loving the cake stand quilt though I haven't made any more progress on that one at the moment. I've got the centre of the Flowering Vines quilt sewn together just need to put the borders on next.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been doing some more decluttering with mixed results. My priorities have changed and I would rather make space for my art supplies and find a space where I can work. I've found it quite difficult to part with some of my collections and books and things but in a way it's a relief as well. I'll never be living in a minimalist house but it was time to let go of my country style decor. Another reason for getting rid of my excess stuff is that Aleisha will be moving back home for a couple of weeks. Finding room for her and all her things is going to be quite a challenge, the next couple of weeks should be lively if nothing else. I'm going to her place tomorrow to help her with her packing wish me luck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Stitching till next time,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Debra.</div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-15997858586337374712013-07-11T05:29:00.000-07:002013-07-11T05:29:59.957-07:00Medallion Quilt update.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6D800nS-CX7owYzq2CkivX2UBd2EM0FY9BLgeD9xECU1EkFv4aZt6SXd-niJTRDDpJ4HQAfx1ACDC-e9BeQT5RfMc8FAeUvOLkW9WVfOnzVVygMOt6swNuLQRb5KdM_7fTAFMhJjXSp9/s1600/DSC02021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6D800nS-CX7owYzq2CkivX2UBd2EM0FY9BLgeD9xECU1EkFv4aZt6SXd-niJTRDDpJ4HQAfx1ACDC-e9BeQT5RfMc8FAeUvOLkW9WVfOnzVVygMOt6swNuLQRb5KdM_7fTAFMhJjXSp9/s400/DSC02021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Mg_D7oXZr8XPlO-TzTgBCoAu-qGc8PlVz7Fm4FMqUs3yoiinyG3tqWXm7HA5td1HTLCwtnwhPGZAppqOLT7002kNROARYyY6QHqhfswIEA52auyVK0LWbBSHHegDYaWj_urV7BoVNovs/s1600/DSC02022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Mg_D7oXZr8XPlO-TzTgBCoAu-qGc8PlVz7Fm4FMqUs3yoiinyG3tqWXm7HA5td1HTLCwtnwhPGZAppqOLT7002kNROARYyY6QHqhfswIEA52auyVK0LWbBSHHegDYaWj_urV7BoVNovs/s400/DSC02022.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9l5Ijogey1F_-lppgp_P_fS6E8dS2vh65a2FXye6XIIbV5otEFWDIPUPehNo7qglZ8bjmb3qJsPTY0FUkaEgQGajtPBCJZtjasiIvCghOlLsYJpX0at97ZQUm4hGMSFaoyAJ8nIYGAep/s1600/DSC02023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9l5Ijogey1F_-lppgp_P_fS6E8dS2vh65a2FXye6XIIbV5otEFWDIPUPehNo7qglZ8bjmb3qJsPTY0FUkaEgQGajtPBCJZtjasiIvCghOlLsYJpX0at97ZQUm4hGMSFaoyAJ8nIYGAep/s400/DSC02023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
More technical issues with my laptop tonight, I have the photos loaded but the words have a mind of their own. I have no control over where they're going but I think the photos are fairly self explanatory anyway. <br />
<br />
The next round on my medallion that I've done since the workshop with Gwen Marston is the pink and red half square triangles. Remembering that this is being made without a lot of the rules and regualtions of what you can and can not do, I was pretty happy with it. I think this is going to make much more interesting quilts - that's my story anyway.<br />
<br />
For the next round I considered a few different colour options. I think the only downside with making a quilt border by border is that the options are endless and each decision is going to make the outcome completely different. I really liked all the options but in the end decided I just better choose one fabric and get on with it. I am concerned about getting wobbly edges so I think the whole fabric borders will help control the wobbles. I haven't made up my mind what to do for the next border, Different triangles, a row of strings or 2" squares....<br />
<br />
<br />
I have stitched together the cake stand blocks and will add a border of half square triangles to finish it off. I'll post a photo when I've pressed the seams. I've also been doing a bit of hand quilting on my pink lemonade quilt. There's nothing like having plenty of projects to keep you going.<br />
<br />
Till next time, Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2VGQYbLxjGDrDqmeHP5AkJAa8xxXFkDEC0gnHq3i0S-cdjLkiOGAyUQbZzIkuw06AKHeZEeOweAnQPQ8lOObxUkYtP2ZkQHquvIbLDeIqcDzfaEZtTDVg7cVDxI6AKZ_CuGCgvAV5Yb-/s1600/DSC02025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2VGQYbLxjGDrDqmeHP5AkJAa8xxXFkDEC0gnHq3i0S-cdjLkiOGAyUQbZzIkuw06AKHeZEeOweAnQPQ8lOObxUkYtP2ZkQHquvIbLDeIqcDzfaEZtTDVg7cVDxI6AKZ_CuGCgvAV5Yb-/s400/DSC02025.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-69328078020378001242013-07-02T05:54:00.000-07:002013-07-02T06:49:29.639-07:00Gwen Marston Workshop.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMK8ujLSufT-LMkp42b5W3NRCqW3hdxArP052Vf2ckhqc1XzdewnGGfZLWbzk8heCGo8u_7ZmqtmocmqfHdbf5EruUa-q21EW1xrRxtqCFE5JUjAErFgaBHfdSIPMa9Q2UiSkEoUGyjK4/s1600/DSC01998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMK8ujLSufT-LMkp42b5W3NRCqW3hdxArP052Vf2ckhqc1XzdewnGGfZLWbzk8heCGo8u_7ZmqtmocmqfHdbf5EruUa-q21EW1xrRxtqCFE5JUjAErFgaBHfdSIPMa9Q2UiSkEoUGyjK4/s400/DSC01998.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I had a really lovely day today at a workshop with Gwen Marston hosted by Amitie Textiles. I have been looking forward to this day for months and it was just as good as I hoped it would be. This quilt is on the cover of Gwen's book Liberated Medallion Quilts, it was fabulous to see it in person. Gwen gave us a detailed description of her designing process which was a lot of fun. Her ideas on quiltmaking ensure that her quilts are full of interest with plenty of colour and inspiration. Quilt police watch out!! Some lessons I need to remember when my inner critic starts nagging. A great reminder that quilting is supposed to be an enjoyable process not adding to your stress levels.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE60rdvPHEvHQp2KpsGHKC0pr_dQRict3l9zPhOSPRjzktmQxMoVn0XCUToePON9jPbp9oaYGvpOZvz2WKaQxhj9qczy15i8FTKK5DIfCiblQqtdlMF9wo3BMHh62n7gpMmehkym0ZTen/s1600/DSC02001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE60rdvPHEvHQp2KpsGHKC0pr_dQRict3l9zPhOSPRjzktmQxMoVn0XCUToePON9jPbp9oaYGvpOZvz2WKaQxhj9qczy15i8FTKK5DIfCiblQqtdlMF9wo3BMHh62n7gpMmehkym0ZTen/s400/DSC02001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I was very fortunate to be seated on a table with some other enthusiastic ladies. Marie, Myself, Barb and Heather with the beginnings of our medallion quilts. It was such a great group of quilters and such a large variety of quilts being made incorporating Gwens liberated style. At the end of the day we had show and tell with the progress everyone had made, 20 quilts all completely individual it was really inspiring to see them all. I did take photos but I'm having some challenges downloading the photos so for the moment this will have to do.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpfgVepLCPP9PWKoUwMWoUjEs7DunjtkJLMJxQ5nQ1ErGhhrTltEalW7xNly3iQ9hyaM4atINRS2sF4khM0zl_MdeArYMN2psXwM8s0HzOl-nAmYvlJ6Jhgbjl817uxrVXaDEASreu7e7/s1600/DSC02004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpfgVepLCPP9PWKoUwMWoUjEs7DunjtkJLMJxQ5nQ1ErGhhrTltEalW7xNly3iQ9hyaM4atINRS2sF4khM0zl_MdeArYMN2psXwM8s0HzOl-nAmYvlJ6Jhgbjl817uxrVXaDEASreu7e7/s400/DSC02004.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
Here is Gwen with my centre block, I'm looking forward to adding some more borders and seeing where this adventure takes me.<br />
<br />
Jack has been in Los Angelos for 10 days now, only another 22 days to go. Yes I'm counting down the days till he comes home. Thanks to the internet we have been messaging each other but I am missing our daily chats. Home is very quiet without him. Lucky I have plenty to keep me busy while he's gone. I have been gathering supplies for an art journalling course I'm doing online. I've been doing a bit of playing around with paints etc. so far I've done a couple of classes. Its quite challenging to go back to being a beginner and learning new skills, it is fun too. I've discovered art supplies are just as appealing as fabric and there seems to be an endless list of supplies to try out.<br />
<br />
Thats it for now, Happy Stitching.<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-64604276445187987832013-06-02T07:00:00.000-07:002013-06-02T07:00:31.559-07:00Cake Stand Blocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6VOvalI8fjPOxmeQ2bGi75ASDRx_iiE6uZIek9bswsJe4vzx7VCG9o9uPf-RRN_6ho-C0RsBxWF6uf7x8FnamIUZflmRehulfFK-ZNxYtN5SWqSk6z0Nwe-VKoU-Yut8oBlhDd3Cpr2H/s1600/DSC01979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6VOvalI8fjPOxmeQ2bGi75ASDRx_iiE6uZIek9bswsJe4vzx7VCG9o9uPf-RRN_6ho-C0RsBxWF6uf7x8FnamIUZflmRehulfFK-ZNxYtN5SWqSk6z0Nwe-VKoU-Yut8oBlhDd3Cpr2H/s400/DSC01979.JPG" width="400" yya="true" /></a></div>
Twenty nine cake stand blocks, 3 more to go. I was fed up with the design boards being stuck on my wardrobe doors, they didn't work very well to see a whole quilt up on the wall. I've moved them onto the wall in the hallway, still not an ideal solution but at least I can get all the blocks up together. It does make it very hard to take photos though cause there's not much space for photo taking. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The blocks certainly brighten up the hallway, ideally a large freestanding board would be best for a design wall but for now this is going to have to do. Its been fun using my old florals, there's a couple of new fabrics in there but mostly they are oldies. Now I need to cut the setting triangles out, mostly pinks I think.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUr_wiffcQ23EZB3eHherx5qiFtC8IvpIR4NIkILxSmwv6MgiLg-PnGIX7T9r7lYJN-g3GYwmxyyPVneGiqQuX8K05crbUUe_duH_2Fx55jvjeg60iDTWkJ9TpVgAZJZP1dqXhVGp9cn9x/s1600/DSC01980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUr_wiffcQ23EZB3eHherx5qiFtC8IvpIR4NIkILxSmwv6MgiLg-PnGIX7T9r7lYJN-g3GYwmxyyPVneGiqQuX8K05crbUUe_duH_2Fx55jvjeg60iDTWkJ9TpVgAZJZP1dqXhVGp9cn9x/s320/DSC01980.JPG" width="320" yya="true" /></a></div>
Till next time Happy Stitching,<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-37392997514583460272013-05-13T23:52:00.000-07:002013-05-14T00:14:22.788-07:00New blocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7NGcouHGbUbezX2GDZckHlDJGx8eX5b0gVzKhbrlWsxbW5I5n84T1inoSjkZAVtImHF_PQTtWL113OyhQRwYD7z0ZhXKwJrXYqfLfhOL-Ih4khvvL_Q2JEWV90blAKLxbi72rXo8AeX4/s1600/DSC01971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" pua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7NGcouHGbUbezX2GDZckHlDJGx8eX5b0gVzKhbrlWsxbW5I5n84T1inoSjkZAVtImHF_PQTtWL113OyhQRwYD7z0ZhXKwJrXYqfLfhOL-Ih4khvvL_Q2JEWV90blAKLxbi72rXo8AeX4/s400/DSC01971.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been working on a new project during the last couple of weeks. This is my first batch of basket blocks, its the cake stand block and it is a quilt that I've always loved and wanted to make. The quilt that has inspired my version is from a book by Roberta Horton called Scrap Quilts The Art of Making Do. I've had the book for years and its a great source of inspiration. I love Roberta's quilts. I was reminded a few weeks ago of this quilt by a discussion on Kathie of Inspired by Antique Quilts blog.<a href="http://inspiredbyantiquequilts.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/am-huge-fan-of-basket-quilts-and.html">here.</a> Kathie had a picture of the cake stand quilt on her notice board the quilt is called Cake Crumbs by George Taylor. Since I was cutting up my old fabrics for scraps I decided to have a go at the block. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been cutting the triangles for the block using my go cutter which has been working out really well. I don't think my way of cutting the fabrics for the blocks has been any quicker than any other way but the accuracy is a lot better. The inspiration quilt has an interesting mix of fabrics, a lot of pale pinks and washed out colours with some bold prints mixed in. Some of the blocks are high contrast and a few are very low contrast. I decided it would be perfect for using up some of my old florals that I've been hoarding for years. So even though I think these blocks have been quite time consuming to make I have enjoyed the process of choosing the backgrounds and the baskets, its been like visiting with old friends. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowHxZNhw6CqAwGiHbo8kKemf5APHUNBEbJyKt7d1hg8QtgaXU722pjMka3EhGlOzf9mkeJ3qgMBkU1TsmUAIIfgKpEwoG1XnS-nfp9JHm5ZTNN-nHBnGgk4WZv5sgsrTTjm2aI-vS4BGh/s1600/DSC01973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowHxZNhw6CqAwGiHbo8kKemf5APHUNBEbJyKt7d1hg8QtgaXU722pjMka3EhGlOzf9mkeJ3qgMBkU1TsmUAIIfgKpEwoG1XnS-nfp9JHm5ZTNN-nHBnGgk4WZv5sgsrTTjm2aI-vS4BGh/s400/DSC01973.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I've finished the first part of my applique border for my Jubilee Quilt. I'm glad I didn't change the size of the letters or numbers I'm really pleased with how its turned out. The challenge now is to decide what to do for the next side!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOUWWHbJQz8WRTl2N9_jZ04jH3-fNk6-4HAnGxi1S_kHfm7Zk9dyvwZxKWau8esNjEEgNhxMxzVbw1udI_TWCPeEDoIwLbf3IKw0lh786n6gRGimgNdRNxfCljGjxY2or2HnMtpzikTq5/s1600/DSC01974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOUWWHbJQz8WRTl2N9_jZ04jH3-fNk6-4HAnGxi1S_kHfm7Zk9dyvwZxKWau8esNjEEgNhxMxzVbw1udI_TWCPeEDoIwLbf3IKw0lh786n6gRGimgNdRNxfCljGjxY2or2HnMtpzikTq5/s400/DSC01974.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I had intended to make this border the bottom of the quilt but when I pinned it on I pinned it the wrong side round, so now its the top. Good thing its not going to make any difference.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hadn't realised that my border was a bit too long so my flower has ended up right on the edge, this really has been a learning experience. I like to believe there's no such thing as a mistake in quilting just a design opportunity!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Stitching,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Debra.<img border="0" height="300" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugdeL7v-d64nlCDg84nUoIZT42lbAUWJ61HQNbhrTjFXFW9PIJxrmHRh6_OafcN_vjvHIOvBtzTvCOvLC5A2bik1dVMmW-ZB5eJEGUo2wiswdx886baRarBi921fUvymPQZdqp5wsRotl/s400/DSC01975.JPG" width="400" /></div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-89771165143978039342013-04-23T06:14:00.000-07:002013-04-23T06:14:22.517-07:00Joys of Machine Quilting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Its been a while since I've posted somehow I keep running out of time. Jack has taken over my laptop for his uni studies since his is playing up. I mostly use my ipad now but I've never done a blog post using it and I haven't figured out how to put my photos on it yet either. As I've mentioned before I'm not very good with technology so it all seems a bit overwhelming at times. Not to mention time consuming. I lost hours today trying to figure out a couple of my technical hitches and didn't get anything figured out and might have deleted one of my favourite blogs from my reader account! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the quilt that has had me questioning my quilting abilities. I mentioned in my last post that its been basted for 2 years and I couldn't figure out how I wanted to quilt it. Well I thought I'd figured it out so I machine quilted diagonal lines through the blocks and double straight lines through the block centres. I hated doing the machine quilting I think stitching straight lines is a lot harder than doing free motion quilting. I'm not overly happy with how it turned out (I've photographed its good side). I ended up with a couple of nasty pleats in a couple of the blocks. I haven't put the binding on yet but when it is finished I think I'm going to try washing it and putting it in the clothes dryer so at least all my quilting might look wrinkled. I need this quilt finished I don't want to spend any more time on it. Now I'm thinking maybe I should have tried to fmq it, it probably would have turned out better.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AVXYq_NxGcO396kuEspj9-iC7NGHr30BYBSiuDTOA30zBZbIg1LCsldsk07ptkjH8zLxXckQ7IqoPVRtrS-r7DLsVElyU4OImnaJpAd9xH7cEheqJV5mQ-Wtc-pBWNtGaqZSbBuV1lww/s1600/DSC01968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dua="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AVXYq_NxGcO396kuEspj9-iC7NGHr30BYBSiuDTOA30zBZbIg1LCsldsk07ptkjH8zLxXckQ7IqoPVRtrS-r7DLsVElyU4OImnaJpAd9xH7cEheqJV5mQ-Wtc-pBWNtGaqZSbBuV1lww/s400/DSC01968.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc29uC9hrUByE9yd1SRm50-YuRcH67fIH4zm4zm7fTyt8i403QFt6xBnhX-j3a8WQ0kCOSSs1JolkVb8AK27tEKIsm5Gk_sN8kTTSVrpscLvkNlk8ptzAaZosIOxWh2XssmCse-91GwCFi/s1600/DSC01970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dua="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc29uC9hrUByE9yd1SRm50-YuRcH67fIH4zm4zm7fTyt8i403QFt6xBnhX-j3a8WQ0kCOSSs1JolkVb8AK27tEKIsm5Gk_sN8kTTSVrpscLvkNlk8ptzAaZosIOxWh2XssmCse-91GwCFi/s400/DSC01970.JPG" width="400" /></a> I added the left over strips across the middle of the backing. The fabric is called Chelsea Boutique from Blackbird Designs, its a few years old now. The pattern was from an Ankas Treasures book. It turned out quite well but its not really the type of quilt I would usually make. Can you tell I've spent too much time obsessing over this one?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81MKcYrz31iHvhyCVKQDUbi3yBZwnHjbeFxvw3UYEdXsThJTb7xQyTSh8wk6S_w6ISfThyphenhyphenru4fVi8_1E4KJKBBKMYkLj_qht_I8XWr4HDZETUaPxxiGZZMyCfxi5Cv-YwOb8sZFIQakdq/s1600/DSC01969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dua="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81MKcYrz31iHvhyCVKQDUbi3yBZwnHjbeFxvw3UYEdXsThJTb7xQyTSh8wk6S_w6ISfThyphenhyphenru4fVi8_1E4KJKBBKMYkLj_qht_I8XWr4HDZETUaPxxiGZZMyCfxi5Cv-YwOb8sZFIQakdq/s400/DSC01969.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The reorganising of my sewing room is coming along slowly. I did rearrange my fabric and got rid of a few pieces. I cleared the floor of boxes but within days they were back in there. Quite a lot of my storage containers have crept into my very small bedroom. I got Jack to help me get the storage boxes out from under my bed as I was sure I could move some of them out and put some of my excess fabric boxes under there. Seventeen containers under my bed!! And worse than that there were only about 4 I wanted to get rid of. I'm expecting a visit from the producers of Hoarders any day now :)<br />
<br />My laptop is misbehaving so I think I better stop before I lose everything.<br />
<br />
Bye for now<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-56691780358635928632013-03-26T05:08:00.001-07:002013-03-26T05:08:17.805-07:00Slow Progress.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYTJMJIV0gJqJbbAllkMYf_0FZ2jKVmnjdm7stpVa7v_Spo_yvXa7lxtpg7LBiExsdmKggnSD28U6g4DNon7G2ATYOKplGjhkIxImkMfiogJGqo6b6s5j341yMvFx7o9BBJznDDVOqEtS/s1600/DSC01956+-+Copy+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYTJMJIV0gJqJbbAllkMYf_0FZ2jKVmnjdm7stpVa7v_Spo_yvXa7lxtpg7LBiExsdmKggnSD28U6g4DNon7G2ATYOKplGjhkIxImkMfiogJGqo6b6s5j341yMvFx7o9BBJznDDVOqEtS/s400/DSC01956+-+Copy+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" ssa="true" width="400" /></a></div>
Hi there, I have been making progress on a few of my projects. I finally got my Scrappy Trips laid out. I've made more blocks than I'll need but any extras will be great for the backing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng7Nacta-3qzTnXKYvDEOnwuHwrTHPrOmZMedGrUrGhVt5HYX9HeTkRNhbeSNrvU1ZUQJcCfPvVS3FKDOZBwW8EVVuGc56M3BiwAdIRGzAYtbEHr20fnkJU9n3leYVftO4MV4_d2ycv6f/s1600/DSC01958+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng7Nacta-3qzTnXKYvDEOnwuHwrTHPrOmZMedGrUrGhVt5HYX9HeTkRNhbeSNrvU1ZUQJcCfPvVS3FKDOZBwW8EVVuGc56M3BiwAdIRGzAYtbEHr20fnkJU9n3leYVftO4MV4_d2ycv6f/s400/DSC01958+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" ssa="true" width="400" /></a></div>
On the weekend I finally got my sewing table sorted out so that I could start machine quilting a quilt. This quilt has been basted for about 2 years. I just couldn't decide how it needed to be quilted. I think I've figured it out, diagonal lines and maybe double horizontal lines. It's not the type of quilting I enjoy doing, I'd rather be doing free motion but I don't think it will suit this design. If I ever get it finished I'll take a photo. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GOlV2yo1QpY9Gl6QzR1gtx3p7g-77LYaWU7hMSXTGo3RMdAfvGpCx_XhsO0hUAuOl9lab0ONxZ3ItMpcvRXkq-gafy-hPXNql0dHZ6lXf4ZKPiOh48-P62EzojFUto4d0jKmW2EAXX9K/s1600/DSC01959+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GOlV2yo1QpY9Gl6QzR1gtx3p7g-77LYaWU7hMSXTGo3RMdAfvGpCx_XhsO0hUAuOl9lab0ONxZ3ItMpcvRXkq-gafy-hPXNql0dHZ6lXf4ZKPiOh48-P62EzojFUto4d0jKmW2EAXX9K/s400/DSC01959+-+Copy.JPG" ssa="true" width="400" /></a></div>
As we all know the minute a quilt comes out so do the cats. I'd only done one row of stitching when Ruby plonked herself in the middle of the quilt putting an end to any more quilting for the night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7dh6HUc_n1N7w7eFQ3fqil8Z1X3AnDnFH6vzjx6I4k7XRbj1K00GuXwvkw_Z2qx59MIRtKnWRJo_J-ZyUgqeeFKYilqolBVTYSANexUMlri-2j0Zc6ZH_ftztX43-sW0MVGIdW3bbk8B/s1600/DSC01964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7dh6HUc_n1N7w7eFQ3fqil8Z1X3AnDnFH6vzjx6I4k7XRbj1K00GuXwvkw_Z2qx59MIRtKnWRJo_J-ZyUgqeeFKYilqolBVTYSANexUMlri-2j0Zc6ZH_ftztX43-sW0MVGIdW3bbk8B/s400/DSC01964.JPG" ssa="true" width="400" /></a></div>
I've been making slow progress on my Jubilee quilt. I'm up to the applique border but its taken me ages to decide what I was doing with it. I'm appliquing my initials on one side of the vase and the year will be on the other. I'm not sure if the initials are too big. I think I might have to shrink them down a bit. Applique seemed like a good idea but it's taken me a very long time to get my ideas sorted out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTZyi0g1hEJIeqloXwUpvLY_CIaZ8rgZ53YPAU8PpGG_wZJZhfufIQaXOnJGnNp0HdNAOK7IubcUoM_N5f6XK0a_QyY7_lYd97idMlZkW1izttF93RGB72a_T4GLvtMb2RGkQhposRO2a/s1600/DSC01966+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTZyi0g1hEJIeqloXwUpvLY_CIaZ8rgZ53YPAU8PpGG_wZJZhfufIQaXOnJGnNp0HdNAOK7IubcUoM_N5f6XK0a_QyY7_lYd97idMlZkW1izttF93RGB72a_T4GLvtMb2RGkQhposRO2a/s400/DSC01966+-+Copy.JPG" ssa="true" width="400" /></a></div>
These photos were taken in the shade, it's been hot here again. The colour is a bit washed out. This is the longest summer ever, we've nearly had 1 month of Autumn and the heat just hasn't stopped. We have some cooler weather forcast for the end of the week, I can't wait.<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-85628990242513362932013-03-06T05:19:00.002-08:002013-03-06T05:19:28.420-08:00A Tale of a Dogs Sad Tail and an Applique finish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIps0kuS1Gsm67AoFk0aXHtPmvDxohfcTr1JnCPCUGdPHAuaa1JX3WxPf8Vnu9P-LTVg_61wXYIdXUzoafPr8A9S1u0_msPT991IDrH4Xs-uawANip_L3psWmI-qFo3MKIl0Af_Lt4eLvn/s1600/DSC01942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIps0kuS1Gsm67AoFk0aXHtPmvDxohfcTr1JnCPCUGdPHAuaa1JX3WxPf8Vnu9P-LTVg_61wXYIdXUzoafPr8A9S1u0_msPT991IDrH4Xs-uawANip_L3psWmI-qFo3MKIl0Af_Lt4eLvn/s400/DSC01942.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Have you ever seen such a sad tail? The last couple of times I've taken Harry to the Dog Groomers he has been so distressed that Jill has been unable to do anything with him. I have spent the last 6 months trying to keep his coat under control, and not doing a great job. Cutting his coat with a small pair of scissors is very time consuming and his ears and his tail were in a very sad state. His face was very shaggy and overgrown. We decided to try Jill coming here and doing some clipping slowly, hoping he will get over his anxiety. The first week Jill came and clipped the hair back on his face so he can see again and he looks heaps better. This week Jill came and tackled Harry's ears and his tail, they had to be cut right back. His tail looks so funny but it's still working just fine. Another couple of weeks and the rest of his coat will be done. He'll be a new dog :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2TaPmodHtPtV-DyRlqHxitvdX0cRehqZU3wpZSe8vuPuZz6uePbXg3gdtjF_2lM9rKhtU4qv_KRMDVC5AJPnu7oy086389KoYBFVhhozAhnKeg_oiS_G_elNLNj5qRQM0uQirYfCFGzV/s1600/DSC01943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2TaPmodHtPtV-DyRlqHxitvdX0cRehqZU3wpZSe8vuPuZz6uePbXg3gdtjF_2lM9rKhtU4qv_KRMDVC5AJPnu7oy086389KoYBFVhhozAhnKeg_oiS_G_elNLNj5qRQM0uQirYfCFGzV/s400/DSC01943.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
We are in the middle of a heat wave. It seems like we have had weeks of days over 30 degrees. I'm so over the heat but there are still another 5 days or so to go. Despite the heat I've managed to do a little bit of stitching. I have finally finished the applique on my Flowering Vines quilt. I can't remember exactly when I started this but I think it's about 6 years ago.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQc8S0wqgNKoz2G7a-nQJzKKNodbGRjf0AzUu7rmWUM1NQ_YzcWGs_cGa34SRCY34lGEL62RiXVFjz9XZLDQTJ1xV_aYAIW0hiHO1Fn_euA02OLTdYYRLbfw57PulvOg77lfy8og7NK9iw/s1600/DSC01945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQc8S0wqgNKoz2G7a-nQJzKKNodbGRjf0AzUu7rmWUM1NQ_YzcWGs_cGa34SRCY34lGEL62RiXVFjz9XZLDQTJ1xV_aYAIW0hiHO1Fn_euA02OLTdYYRLbfw57PulvOg77lfy8og7NK9iw/s400/DSC01945.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The colours are a lot more vibrant in real life. I haven't done the strip piecing that goes in between the flower blocks, I've started cutting the strips and might get a start on them on the weekend. You know how I love me some string piecing, I just hope it all fits together in the end.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf-0Vb5cg8ACP0NQ1XLcQJiEBJ4xQ47mzFao0DaKebIdSgWXzhmfrvpI77ZD3alpb4cOnBbodFNqOkq2IOqfr6xbY8Tf6yTty6x_AkSLXnYQ68jZzCOoLYHltF2z5clGpW_RLcAHNKwhT/s1600/DSC01946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf-0Vb5cg8ACP0NQ1XLcQJiEBJ4xQ47mzFao0DaKebIdSgWXzhmfrvpI77ZD3alpb4cOnBbodFNqOkq2IOqfr6xbY8Tf6yTty6x_AkSLXnYQ68jZzCOoLYHltF2z5clGpW_RLcAHNKwhT/s400/DSC01946.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Some closeups of a couple of the blocks. I would do things a bit differently now than when I started this top. The background fabric in the 4 vine strips is not a very good quality, back then I didn't really think too much about the backgrounds. Now when I know how much time and work <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tRWSHvc-MUOLkRg5D94jlswMhJGXbmZLWkgejbBkKYsnKxdf0wFJ5XfBVYyI6icdmA_WAUjSIK3xakLdVkz9d1EgrjYsXCjWhtpeBs4Xr9G2h6by21pxtWVe5AGEoEBwCWP-Uu2Jqetg/s1600/DSC01947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tRWSHvc-MUOLkRg5D94jlswMhJGXbmZLWkgejbBkKYsnKxdf0wFJ5XfBVYyI6icdmA_WAUjSIK3xakLdVkz9d1EgrjYsXCjWhtpeBs4Xr9G2h6by21pxtWVe5AGEoEBwCWP-Uu2Jqetg/s400/DSC01947.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
has gone into the applique I think it's important to use good quality fabrics. We're always learning right? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYEo3N8lH6Tnm98MWAY884wd3_H1CkvuWdXo6ZK6feGEsiNeH-vciO-p7_XdZmXK3tnmrHlSryuCFJcYOMJRhxz80rd_UDyRW9EH_iCd0MqnvLFIDH3uZqV7NqrIltIn-ConEpGGq306q/s1600/DSC01948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYEo3N8lH6Tnm98MWAY884wd3_H1CkvuWdXo6ZK6feGEsiNeH-vciO-p7_XdZmXK3tnmrHlSryuCFJcYOMJRhxz80rd_UDyRW9EH_iCd0MqnvLFIDH3uZqV7NqrIltIn-ConEpGGq306q/s400/DSC01948.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Here you can see the back of one of my blocks. I used the back basting method which worked okay but it was quite time consuming and I wouldn't do that again either. I enjoy needleturn applique but when I started my stitches were way too small, can you see how small they are? I couldn't work out why I was so slow, I'm still not speedy but I've improved.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2FWERfeogXH2e2ksPKtLfz1dBIM_Y6rp4qvPJRaidu5lIpAIA3bSJ08G4btx95_TOCmyg2wYDHmOsx4l0As8lUCRYLiRVYdTzMF9ah-jyXK_l6CZHti2vLDKbxx1JJZOJtiUMgwr3eBR/s1600/DSC01950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2FWERfeogXH2e2ksPKtLfz1dBIM_Y6rp4qvPJRaidu5lIpAIA3bSJ08G4btx95_TOCmyg2wYDHmOsx4l0As8lUCRYLiRVYdTzMF9ah-jyXK_l6CZHti2vLDKbxx1JJZOJtiUMgwr3eBR/s400/DSC01950.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I was very lucky last week to win a prize from Lori at <a href="http://humblequilts.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/celebration-winners.html">Humble Quilts</a>, some pieces of woollen fabric. They arrived today they will add nicely to my stash. Thanks Lori, I do like working with wool.<br />
<br />
I'm itching to reorganise my fabric stash again. It's always fun to rediscover what's in there. At the moment I'm storing fabrics from ranges together and my favourite designers together. I don't really like making quilts that just use one range, so I'm thinking I need to just sort my fabrics into colour families instead. I think being able to see at a glance how much of each colour I have will be a good way of resisting the urge to buy more. Any thoughts?<br />
<br />
Till next time. Happy Stitching,<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-68432161789943772802013-02-25T03:28:00.000-08:002013-02-25T03:28:37.634-08:00Needlecase finish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMvxAUuHb12I4Qdflztho1sugNvxMtEWFId94T6wcwfaUOszGDO1XhtrvqC6BP27vpOgRJYwIxKzKAM9vttF9R5w3O3TT7F6r7Hdf_xRwE8cVyno56m2C5vnZxX_di75PS-DPMWpQX6R3/s1600/DSC01933+-+Copy+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMvxAUuHb12I4Qdflztho1sugNvxMtEWFId94T6wcwfaUOszGDO1XhtrvqC6BP27vpOgRJYwIxKzKAM9vttF9R5w3O3TT7F6r7Hdf_xRwE8cVyno56m2C5vnZxX_di75PS-DPMWpQX6R3/s320/DSC01933+-+Copy+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Hi there, here's a photo of the needlecase I just finished, it has been sitting in the too hard basket for a long time. I started the embroidery in 2007, helps when the date is included in the design. I might have mentioned before that I made one of these for a friend, hers turned out really well. When I went to make one for myself however it didn't go well at all. Somehow when I transferred the embroidery design onto the fabric it was off the straight of the grain, didn't think a lot about it till it came time to stitch it onto the needlecase cover. It was crooked of course, it looked terrible. I didn't take a photo it was very distressing. The pattern called for tiny prairie points along the top and bottom edge, they looked terrible. Some of the raw edges didn't catch in the seam and a couple were wonky. That was about the time it got ditched.<br />
<br />
It stayed in a basket with other ufos and for the last couple of summer holidays I've got it out and considered finishing it. Then it would go back cause I just couldn't come up with an acceptable solution. Till a few weeks ago when I decided to have another go. I unpicked the top and ditched the prairie points. Because the embroidery was crooked I stitched the ric rac around the edges to cover them up. Then sewed the buttons in the corners to cover the ric rac corners. I'm really pleased to have it finished and will be happy to use it now.<br />
<br />
My mother has a bit of a scissor obsession and I've been the lucky recipient of all those lovely little scissors with the little embroidered fobs - all made by her. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe815JMulAvyHJ3IgoKzuspgQLFv57ox4p9xwt7qm0F3QcKi-mZSxI-G8PWKCE9-32a0NeKtLE64iJVtWNhyphenhyphen6oZwROCxWigtlUNVCd2s6QdIhGtMgF0T-prfmict_ynTJMPTEhCI9HFzp/s1600/DSC01932+-+Copy+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe815JMulAvyHJ3IgoKzuspgQLFv57ox4p9xwt7qm0F3QcKi-mZSxI-G8PWKCE9-32a0NeKtLE64iJVtWNhyphenhyphen6oZwROCxWigtlUNVCd2s6QdIhGtMgF0T-prfmict_ynTJMPTEhCI9HFzp/s400/DSC01932+-+Copy+(3).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
We're both partial to pink as you can see. <br />
<br />
So my finishes so far are 3 pincushions in January, the needlecase in February, maybe a quilt by the end of March? I haven't been doing a lot the last couple of weeks, its been so hot I struggle to stay motivated. We've had 2 weeks of 30+ weather, I've had enough. It has been raining a tiny bit tonight but I'm sure all it's going to do is increase the humidity.<br />
<br />
I had some trouble loading the photos on tonight so I hope they are clear enough. I'm not going to push my luck any further tonight.<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.<br />
<br />
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-25184093923117956802013-02-07T04:54:00.000-08:002013-02-07T04:54:13.696-08:003 Finishes for 2013!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivh2aZ4F9mVvQEuxKeGlqSfeANXF-BVd7bjS4FMq5hnZcHq-2KC5hdiVIc_z4wKssdQ90CB3iPlnKFJ1ZON3lEHfBHBi99xsA1qaPDwt8UPtBw1_X77dOOtFisEALyUuQWbhREnio0QNge/s1600/DSC01925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivh2aZ4F9mVvQEuxKeGlqSfeANXF-BVd7bjS4FMq5hnZcHq-2KC5hdiVIc_z4wKssdQ90CB3iPlnKFJ1ZON3lEHfBHBi99xsA1qaPDwt8UPtBw1_X77dOOtFisEALyUuQWbhREnio0QNge/s640/DSC01925.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Hi there,<br />
3 Digby Dog pincushions, its a start right? I decided I needed to make something quick and easy. I've got a lot of these Hatched and Patched pincushion patterns, they are all very cute and fun to make. I have been wanting to make one for myself for a while and I thought if I'm making one I might as well make a couple more at the same time. My Digby is top left I've given the other 2 to my stitching friends.<br />
<br />
I've pulled out a couple of other small long term projects that need to be finished up this year. Next post I'll show you the next one I've dug out of the too hard basket.<br />
<br />
I've had a couple of days home alone this week which has given me a chance to do a bit more reorganising. I had plans to sew today but reorganised my scrapbooking supplies instead, so much stuff so little time! My things are sorted better but the kitchen table isn't any neater.<br />
<br />
I am trying to downsize in order to be ready for moving in the future. It does not come easy thats for sure. Its hard when one phase of your life ends and the future is uncertain. I have avoided making life decisions for so many years I'm finding it very hard to start now. Working at an op shop doesn't make it any easier either, I've been busy taking donations to work but it hasn't stopped me bringing home other things. I guess it will work out in the end.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65EghaLNeNvRroKVskoMlfQRLgoJ-J0VLlsRllDzzBIUbMzenU8NSCp-J-zFVvWymQQ-yDnZgOSb_m9yjhB1JpBz1eGzY-i0iMDo_mYOiyeHGERSj-8nvyvk6Pn4cegaSPjOtsrLHdc5r/s1600/DSC01926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65EghaLNeNvRroKVskoMlfQRLgoJ-J0VLlsRllDzzBIUbMzenU8NSCp-J-zFVvWymQQ-yDnZgOSb_m9yjhB1JpBz1eGzY-i0iMDo_mYOiyeHGERSj-8nvyvk6Pn4cegaSPjOtsrLHdc5r/s640/DSC01926.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm still working on my Scrappy Trip blocks, I'm wondering if I should cut down the size of the quilt cause I think its going to be a bit bigger than I can handle easily. I can always put any extra blocks on the back. I would like to make another one with some of my newer brighter fabrics after seeing some of the lovely ones that have been appearing in blogland.<br />
<br />
I had a go at making a pineapple block, another in the long list of quilts I would like to make. I bought a ruler and book online after seeing an episode of the quilt show with Gyleen Fitzgerald. Gyleen designed the ruler and it was fun playing around with it. I just used some of my scrap 11/2" strips but I want to do some blocks with better contrast to get the real effect of the pineapple block.<br />
<br />
No time to be bored thats for sure,<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-55679675849519895902013-01-20T07:35:00.000-08:002013-01-20T07:47:11.442-08:00A glimpse of Easy Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzbx_0CqGbNX7EkpcRFqhQs6-7Ca6rilBGGZnI4aC8s9ps-YJCm5wFKAcG8kB1i-jXlpng-aszN-af-yyiCPc4jA_N818fevvfhBjixQl8VtXOQ95m8E3agVCVD-1dp1goY6Vu2mUEy_Q/s1600/DSC01915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzbx_0CqGbNX7EkpcRFqhQs6-7Ca6rilBGGZnI4aC8s9ps-YJCm5wFKAcG8kB1i-jXlpng-aszN-af-yyiCPc4jA_N818fevvfhBjixQl8VtXOQ95m8E3agVCVD-1dp1goY6Vu2mUEy_Q/s400/DSC01915.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Here is a photo of the lovely canvas work picture that my Mum made for me for my 50th birthday. The colours are much richer in real life. I had no idea that she was making this and I really love it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl5ZvIK9H3hC-9hsgZidCTzwZ9gPhBB5BO-eg6ru3vdxWqNMF_7i9k1mKA7Y02x5cgfzPtzzQFbVDJQGjRlm2rv0rYdhcvzGzQoUIlGv5VtC57R-TIQpcb5MU0wEAaHP_IxPFcUWKsx2F/s1600/DSC01921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibl5ZvIK9H3hC-9hsgZidCTzwZ9gPhBB5BO-eg6ru3vdxWqNMF_7i9k1mKA7Y02x5cgfzPtzzQFbVDJQGjRlm2rv0rYdhcvzGzQoUIlGv5VtC57R-TIQpcb5MU0wEAaHP_IxPFcUWKsx2F/s400/DSC01921.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I have finished the blocks for my Easy Street quilt. I laid them out today to pin them for stitching together. I'm glad I decided to do the 9 blocks instead of 16. If I add a border I will still want to be able to quilt it myself. I like how the top is looking so far, I need to start looking in my stash for a suitable border fabric. I was disappointed I missed the deadline for the last link up on Bonnies blog, there are some really gorgeous versions on the link up.<a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/mystery-monday-link-up-jan-7th.html">click here</a> to see the link ups for Easy Street.<br />
<br />
I'm back at work now, those 3 weeks flew by way too fast. <br />
<br />
I realised that it is over a year since I've done any machine quilting, mainly because I have a quilt basted that I just couldn't figure out how I wanted to quilt it. I seem to have a lot of projects that come to a halt when I get stuck. I'm hoping this year I might get a few of these projects finished. I was disappointed that I didn't finish my Jubilee quilt in time for my birthday. That is another quilt that came to a halt cause I couldn't decide on the applique borders. I'm tempted to forget about the applique and do a pieced border. My main problem is that although I can envision what I want to draw I have no artistic ability. I've spent many hours trying to draw the shapes I want and searching the web for help. I think it is time to admit defeat and give up on cats and dogs frolicking through a vine and just have a vine and a flower or two. Time to get on with it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBI2CIMXFZDZPSJgHtgDKubb2K8Pji1_bDMsjrxzQw2d4lElOUBQxv0T6YtvcubS4G9RwZ6HF9-tKs6gKJIJH-gqf9-tyYYsps-w5mkEI8kRhN79Fjh4Gj_bvzhq_Wk_S11j_EmuXDchv/s1600/DSC01918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBI2CIMXFZDZPSJgHtgDKubb2K8Pji1_bDMsjrxzQw2d4lElOUBQxv0T6YtvcubS4G9RwZ6HF9-tKs6gKJIJH-gqf9-tyYYsps-w5mkEI8kRhN79Fjh4Gj_bvzhq_Wk_S11j_EmuXDchv/s400/DSC01918.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I haven't been able to lay out my Scrappy Trip around the World blocks for a while, my design wall has size limitations. Here it is on a queen size bed, I think I need 13 more blocks to finish it. I pinned a whole heap of them together last night so I'll be able to keep working on these too.<br />
<br />
Till next time,<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br /><br />
Debra.xDebrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-16998003952107765952013-01-06T06:17:00.000-08:002013-01-06T06:17:07.538-08:00Happy New Year and turning Vintage...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPJnN13jNTBmHemS_SS9HoKAE1v1De-rToOkqpBaJb8HTe50KEmxoHSp6m0kMsw3Xtry_uUuG3UUb0OgCQjlRgnYs93bG7Z54LJz2xaV4uNn6vl8V6ndD8ZQw_Pj4eQJ3wcciyHw7zSPP/s1600/DSC01903+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPJnN13jNTBmHemS_SS9HoKAE1v1De-rToOkqpBaJb8HTe50KEmxoHSp6m0kMsw3Xtry_uUuG3UUb0OgCQjlRgnYs93bG7Z54LJz2xaV4uNn6vl8V6ndD8ZQw_Pj4eQJ3wcciyHw7zSPP/s400/DSC01903+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Hi there and Happy New Year. I hope 2013 is kind to us.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>As you can see the stash enhancement programme at the palace is still going strong. If I believed in new years resolutions there might be mention of going on a fabric diet. Unfortunately I have zero will power when it comes to any form of dieting, something to work on in 2013.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>I am doing my personal best and feel I have a responsibility to help keep the quilting economy here and overseas afloat!! That's my excuse anyway. I ordered the fabric above from the Fat Quarter Shop during their pre Christmas sales. I love them all, the colours of the yardage pieces are very inspiring</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Yesterday I went to Amitie with Tracey, I bought a lovely selection of fabric, wool and bits and pieces. It is a very nice shop to visit. I really needed some retail therapy and felt much better when I got home.</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmtSk1wB6dNPxE-F-9EG7G8RoZGCXXh9Pcu_TL2XOjkUy9Zu7poAh4C-tCk5Zkvvj63sOYJm01w6WE_aXUKrl8KEKREgSBkteI7-wygHwJtsHX01AZL99148yXvy668fUTXfCIZipd3Z5/s1600/DSC01907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmtSk1wB6dNPxE-F-9EG7G8RoZGCXXh9Pcu_TL2XOjkUy9Zu7poAh4C-tCk5Zkvvj63sOYJm01w6WE_aXUKrl8KEKREgSBkteI7-wygHwJtsHX01AZL99148yXvy668fUTXfCIZipd3Z5/s400/DSC01907.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>I was really overwhelmed by the lovely present Tracey gave me for my birthday. This dog is just adorable, he's very soft and has such personality and he's sooo cute. </strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NFVs1KwvX_ciE3exMy0yl-Tfj5kv8EANCxSq_IXGofqum8GHDv7uIHRpyNcTcycrfXoFm-ZmD54B_OOHt0pAYC_zz6i2NkDz-0bLM_NsYgVZpC2_66PfVlZwYtYxQWKPS-NTiCPWpAPf/s1600/DSC01909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NFVs1KwvX_ciE3exMy0yl-Tfj5kv8EANCxSq_IXGofqum8GHDv7uIHRpyNcTcycrfXoFm-ZmD54B_OOHt0pAYC_zz6i2NkDz-0bLM_NsYgVZpC2_66PfVlZwYtYxQWKPS-NTiCPWpAPf/s400/DSC01909.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>I just love the kitty needlecase by Hensteethart, I love her work and am thrilled to own a piece. Quilters do give the best presents! Thanks again Tracey.</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrAjYMp7z0G79VRnNubw42QbJ0IC_j5GPpVgG0y_0FF_gKgR_mzTpMCEvAbhilibsmjdTPCFBO_qpaPzuogi6cfjtvz4SzR02_EyBnCerpJw_XcjtWgnxMDzRhNzbWW-UmQwrsGpzdVen/s1600/DSC01910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrAjYMp7z0G79VRnNubw42QbJ0IC_j5GPpVgG0y_0FF_gKgR_mzTpMCEvAbhilibsmjdTPCFBO_qpaPzuogi6cfjtvz4SzR02_EyBnCerpJw_XcjtWgnxMDzRhNzbWW-UmQwrsGpzdVen/s400/DSC01910.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Today we went out for lunch at a local hotel for my birthday, this was the view from our table. We've had some very hot days lately but it was pleasant sitting outside with a sea breeze to help keep cool. We had a lovely lunch.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Next post I'll have a photo of the lovely canvaswork picture my Mum made for me.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Tomorrow I'll be back to working on my Easy Street quilt blocks among other projects.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Happy Stitching</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Debra.</strong> </div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-20759698581297232602012-12-27T07:36:00.000-08:002012-12-27T07:36:40.942-08:00Clue No. 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiKeJ8PZXh8G40fwiXYqeCdJ2jiSKrEgtMVfmtWgoGvn2lppAV-GEYN7x0vr1DRM-S10IrQjzZvWHWjSJ6kjKAsgCvK_Wof6K00bFzW5hywZK0F_CwHfUNMktrpcbON6P8wn5H8qkoGjD/s1600/DSC01902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiKeJ8PZXh8G40fwiXYqeCdJ2jiSKrEgtMVfmtWgoGvn2lppAV-GEYN7x0vr1DRM-S10IrQjzZvWHWjSJ6kjKAsgCvK_Wof6K00bFzW5hywZK0F_CwHfUNMktrpcbON6P8wn5H8qkoGjD/s400/DSC01902.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are my blocks for Easy Street clue No. 5. I had trouble finding time to do any sewing this week. I'm sure I'm not the only one in danger of falling behind. Lucky for us Bonnie made allowances for this happening and when I finally did manage to get my cutting mat back out it didn't take too long to get the pieces cut and then sewn today. At least I don't have long to wait for the next clue. Click <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/mystery-monday-link-up-part-5.html">here</a> to see the progress being made on the East Street Mystery.<br />
<br />
I hope everyone had a very happy peaceful Christmas. I went to my parents house with Jack and Aleisha for Christmas lunch, we had a really nice time together. I haven't felt very Christmassy this year and didn't really do much decorating at home. I will have to try and do better next year.<br />
<br />
Now that Christmas is over I'm planning to get stuck into some sewing. The list is long as always I hope I have something to show for my holidays!<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-71782358466795262642012-12-20T05:34:00.000-08:002012-12-20T05:34:10.762-08:00Hitting a bump in the road on Easy Street...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This week hasn't gone as I'd planned and I haven't been able to do as much sewing as I'd hoped. I guess that's bound to happen at some stage. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMjEZZbk1B5-TtSG-yiJ69Hq_JA5UNxnJzdZft6EVxSMtDbtbNE-zgtuOvpbf8Qsysj2yOrqECB2oQY6txggQqbWxusvgSykz7u1p8uX2r4XnavXTw_cjUQOUNvdItTACMNf5MB0OlNOq/s1600/DSC01880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMjEZZbk1B5-TtSG-yiJ69Hq_JA5UNxnJzdZft6EVxSMtDbtbNE-zgtuOvpbf8Qsysj2yOrqECB2oQY6txggQqbWxusvgSykz7u1p8uX2r4XnavXTw_cjUQOUNvdItTACMNf5MB0OlNOq/s400/DSC01880.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
I was surprised and disappointed when I came to join my geese together, I thought my geese where looking really good. When I put them together I realised they weren't as good as I thought and some were quite wobbly. I sewed the pairs of geese together and then I squared them up so that they measured 31/2" like they were supposed to. They didn't have to be trimmed very much and they do look better now. I have a few with missing beaks etc. but I'll let them stay. I think that's part of the joy of scrap quilts, they don't have to be perfect. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJg22Mz7fYE94IzD-ZVbloCNiydkxWeSMZxyshKr7FJowQEo-tZyMI0OFR2rEQgCyt22wZFYCBYl-KmQXTV8LBofO22bkONuX-aO0vK5S5CBSm9UESiXNJnAJ1BEHwv8WKOmt0HjgJE1l/s1600/DSC01874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJg22Mz7fYE94IzD-ZVbloCNiydkxWeSMZxyshKr7FJowQEo-tZyMI0OFR2rEQgCyt22wZFYCBYl-KmQXTV8LBofO22bkONuX-aO0vK5S5CBSm9UESiXNJnAJ1BEHwv8WKOmt0HjgJE1l/s400/DSC01874.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I got these flowers at my work Christmas lunch from the Committee who run the Op Shop. Aren't they lovely? The day of the lunch was very hot and I thought the flowers mightn't survive the ride home in the car. Tomorrow is my last day at work till we close for our Christmas holidays. I'm very excited about having 3 weeks at home. I'm looking forward to doing lots of sewing and maybe a bit of scrapbooking and journaling as well. Of course I always plan to do heaps more than is humanly possible. Maybe I might manage to finish something!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdFr8LQYHKmcgXd9mY4jOfhHkor-9RjYQB6E8mAfaMTgQW8ge8yJTlOqWFxz8Z0RcJSCK6DQea0V6TK9QiCk41qhDRrZWJjDQzsDh3xksz7bsEDXP-c97M8PX9i0bS0qrp4FdDt4_wTNc/s1600/DSC01871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdFr8LQYHKmcgXd9mY4jOfhHkor-9RjYQB6E8mAfaMTgQW8ge8yJTlOqWFxz8Z0RcJSCK6DQea0V6TK9QiCk41qhDRrZWJjDQzsDh3xksz7bsEDXP-c97M8PX9i0bS0qrp4FdDt4_wTNc/s400/DSC01871.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I put my string blocks back up on my design wall to see how they look. I finished sewing the corners on another dozen of them on the weekend. I might start sewing them together so I can get a better idea how many more I want to make. See how that big black spot in some of the corners really stands out? I'll make sure they are distributed all over the quilt before I start stitching blocks together.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to seeing what the next clue for East Street is tomorrow night, must be time to do something with the green fabrics. If you want to see how the other Easy Street quilters are going just visit Bonnie Hunters blog <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/mystery-monday-link-up-part-4.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-29286865044202269242012-12-10T04:57:00.000-08:002012-12-10T04:57:10.033-08:00Having Fun on Easy Street.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrTfIa_nDGmpuiULLAvBA4nMyeE5S8IrmCePdPk_ZGhqX-mdLcTgLHrtMR9Vw0ciMZWr_p9vTbUr4_0HHncSh8TdYZX0FrJvNspl98tLVprufIrC5mfOVvGWsmToMz8nrugZA0rCMhU-7/s1600/DSC01868+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrTfIa_nDGmpuiULLAvBA4nMyeE5S8IrmCePdPk_ZGhqX-mdLcTgLHrtMR9Vw0ciMZWr_p9vTbUr4_0HHncSh8TdYZX0FrJvNspl98tLVprufIrC5mfOVvGWsmToMz8nrugZA0rCMhU-7/s400/DSC01868+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Hi there, as you can see I'm up to date with clue no. 3 for <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/mystery-monday-link-up-part-3.html">Easy Street</a>. As I don't want to make the quilt as big as Bonnie's I'm guestimating the amount of blocks for each step. I've made 50 of these blocks. I'm really pleased with the results I'm getting from the 2 rulers Bonnie uses and the colours are combining really well.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>I had a fairly quiet weekend and managed to fit in a few hours of sewing. I made a few more of the scrappy trip around the world blocks. I managed to catch a bit of Bonnie on Quiltcam. Her night time quiltcam is afternoon here. Jack caught me watching on my ipad as I made his lunch, much headshaking and sighing followed. It's hard being the son of a quilt tragic!</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT-e8TWEXwWI8qi6hnSiHYay46uCWFGw5oav2qOA1iPWprLhpDp9FD9okCL7O3m1Tn2TQ8GHj8FOsPE-QJFXH6aEGfnhgHm7HeM1EUaC_8Bz5yPQvjAZcKVnTXvOjc0nK7SgyyDcXVOsL/s1600/DSC01869+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT-e8TWEXwWI8qi6hnSiHYay46uCWFGw5oav2qOA1iPWprLhpDp9FD9okCL7O3m1Tn2TQ8GHj8FOsPE-QJFXH6aEGfnhgHm7HeM1EUaC_8Bz5yPQvjAZcKVnTXvOjc0nK7SgyyDcXVOsL/s400/DSC01869+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Today I received half of my black and white order of fabric, gotta love seeing the Aust Post delivery van pull up out the front. Again more sighing and head shaking from No. 1 Son. Taking a bit of adjusting to having him home now school's finished. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>I'm really loving these fabrics I ordered from <a href="http://cvquiltworks.blogspot.com.au/">Canton Village Quiltworks</a>. I don't need to worry about running out of black and whites any time soon!</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispPcsnGEkfXplOuEi92RWMp5tAMnthO4-cpEVZeGdMbaw59JKOtgEs1utkRCGT2sa3qW0HKv729kKzFLvK2SJ3iybpIjszL5Ly3sStCszAPcVn3nVqAl4RLt8eLzTVcwDwHCg0L6tosgA/s1600/DSC01864+-+Copy+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispPcsnGEkfXplOuEi92RWMp5tAMnthO4-cpEVZeGdMbaw59JKOtgEs1utkRCGT2sa3qW0HKv729kKzFLvK2SJ3iybpIjszL5Ly3sStCszAPcVn3nVqAl4RLt8eLzTVcwDwHCg0L6tosgA/s400/DSC01864+-+Copy+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>It was a really lovely sunny day today and not too hot so I decided I might spend a little time stitching outside. Guess who broke the chair!!! I had just sat down when the leg broke tipping me and my sewing backwards onto the paving. I'm very lucky I didn't hit my head, my back was a bit sore, it really gave me a fright. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>A few weeks ago when I set my table up outside to cut some fabric, the leg on the table collapsed. Now I really need Santa to bring me a new chair.... or maybe I'll stay inside till I lose weight or it's safe to go outside again.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Happy Stitching</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Debra.</strong>Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-61265955258081826642012-12-03T16:05:00.000-08:002012-12-03T16:06:46.011-08:00Crumb sewing and Easy Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL5LdbeZLF3gJR1QJOWxHlX8XpoKuGk37zrZetvHNKS6piWN2YJvh244yy4f_R-mC1PHt9bLqFhAcKluIEiYjcfyWYcMQopRta-kZEz5qEev5moftFdLxyn37PFvXrwxabD1r4G0nTnTI/s1600/DSC01857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL5LdbeZLF3gJR1QJOWxHlX8XpoKuGk37zrZetvHNKS6piWN2YJvh244yy4f_R-mC1PHt9bLqFhAcKluIEiYjcfyWYcMQopRta-kZEz5qEev5moftFdLxyn37PFvXrwxabD1r4G0nTnTI/s400/DSC01857.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Hi there, I've been working on the 2nd clue of Bonnie Hunter's </strong><br />
<a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/mystery-monday-link-up-part-2.html">Easy Street</a> mystery quilt. I've got about 1/2 the geese sewn. I'm using the Companion Angle and Easy Angle rulers to cut the triangles for the geese. Thanks to Bonnie's really good instructions and video I've found they are working really well. I had tried using the rulers previously and wasn't really happy with my results, it makes a big difference with some clear instructions. Thanks Bonnie!<br />
<br />
I've also been working on a couple of other projects at the same time. Not such a good thing when I accidently cut my 2 1/2" strips into 2" pieces cause I got mixed up with measurements. Easy mistake if you're not concentrating on which project you're working on.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc6V1OXcFOWgjeXGcUhYDkR_0V4nm2PekAWHPFwrFVrlg9go6hdMNQP3z277vfY_TT1Xs0VTpMRonVHowrSzq-aSp78Hr2-bNDii2t_EwRz_yEzkEeOH4TxgxcVqSsC1FniVzwjxJlI7X/s1600/DSC01855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc6V1OXcFOWgjeXGcUhYDkR_0V4nm2PekAWHPFwrFVrlg9go6hdMNQP3z277vfY_TT1Xs0VTpMRonVHowrSzq-aSp78Hr2-bNDii2t_EwRz_yEzkEeOH4TxgxcVqSsC1FniVzwjxJlI7X/s400/DSC01855.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>It was really sunny earlier this morning, here's Dougal enjoying some rays. There are big grey clouds out now, its only going to be 18 degrees today. A good day to stay inside, I'm hoping to get my christmas decorations put up today.</strong><br />
<strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_v3nJUD4Pbn-CM5alwrzu58tevHNgkFtzCHEY5g7uRSP708kNESb8YiiLRWZouIc6cVnkVFxqUew0Ah4FryLRhhUnTftExje7-nw_zASTbt4CBKFSKIOYyF7P5v69olkHEP6izwBzCiDW/s1600/DSC01858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_v3nJUD4Pbn-CM5alwrzu58tevHNgkFtzCHEY5g7uRSP708kNESb8YiiLRWZouIc6cVnkVFxqUew0Ah4FryLRhhUnTftExje7-nw_zASTbt4CBKFSKIOYyF7P5v69olkHEP6izwBzCiDW/s400/DSC01858.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I received my copy of 15 Minutes of Play by <a href="http://bumblebeansinc.blogspot.com.au/">Victoria Findlay Wolfe</a> I've been reading her blog for ages and really love her work. I decided I'd have a go at using my crumbs to make some blocks, Victoria has a couple of suggestions for sewing "made fabric". I made these 2 blocks using telephone book pages as foundations. When I do string piecing I like using foundations. It was a bit tedious getting all the paper out so I might have a go next just at stitching the fabrics together. </strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC93V1p630ZQVvyLoVENfP-7j7Irbock1maXqVjBtcCcqaSlvHMomYCxwLmNEqidkR6OarC59guZ-I-m8T7c4aOwMKXJpL1L_ruFZGG1OjcaXEdn6q0oN8_b6HTBr2_fykMWdA1Bft8cx7/s1600/DSC01859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC93V1p630ZQVvyLoVENfP-7j7Irbock1maXqVjBtcCcqaSlvHMomYCxwLmNEqidkR6OarC59guZ-I-m8T7c4aOwMKXJpL1L_ruFZGG1OjcaXEdn6q0oN8_b6HTBr2_fykMWdA1Bft8cx7/s400/DSC01859.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I thought I'd show you my earliest patchwork fabrics before I cut them up to go into my scrap strip bins. I bought these fabrics when I had my first patchwork lessons at eighteen which makes them over 30 years old! Back then I went to a local ladies house to be taught the basics of hand piecing and I made a variety of cushions for my Grandma and my Mum. I was very keen on brown obviously cause all the cushions were brown! For some reason I didn't make a quilt, back then I don't remember anyone making lap quilts or wall quilts. I think the idea of making a full size quilt must have been too daunting so I didn't do any more patchwork until I had my daughter 11 years later. (Maybe I didn't want a quilt all done in browns). I do remember driving my Mum and I to look at the local quilt show that was held every year in peoples homes. Times sure have changed.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Do you still have pieces of your earlies fabrics in your stash? I wonder what the colours where?</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Happy sewing</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Debra.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-8074941791334073832012-11-27T06:07:00.001-08:002012-11-27T06:16:21.738-08:00Fabrics for Easy Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7BCJFpyxC4b3IZd__Czxg1TBvWwvMaQ2AFuprMjjkoAODZ4xEfBp9Om2ieqvNLAYJma2JsXU_oKE02OPbAUMopghliPJKK5VjS7Mwka2ftaBBsRJqoH_IjGcsnHSZAxwXk5nUsAW14mG/s1600/DSC01854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7BCJFpyxC4b3IZd__Czxg1TBvWwvMaQ2AFuprMjjkoAODZ4xEfBp9Om2ieqvNLAYJma2JsXU_oKE02OPbAUMopghliPJKK5VjS7Mwka2ftaBBsRJqoH_IjGcsnHSZAxwXk5nUsAW14mG/s400/DSC01854.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
Hi there, as you can see I've made a bit of progress on my scrappy trip around the world top. I'm liking the colours of the blocks better, there's a bit more prettiness in the fabrics. There's more pinks and less yellows which helps I think. I would really like to add some much brighter fabrics but my challange was to use my old fabrics so I'll keep going with them. The colours are a lot deeper in real life and I don't think the pattern really shows up much except from a distance. I've decided I want to make it with 3 pattern repeats square so that means I've got 21 more blocks to go. That should help eat up all those 2 1/2" strips. <br />
. <br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I had the house to myself over the weekend Jack has gone to Byron Bay for "schoolies" (end of school holiday with his mates). It has been really great to get my kitchen table back and get all of Jacks study things packed away. I was able to do some fabric cutting on the table. I've cut about 3/4s of my older fabrics into strips. It will be fun to make some more quilts with them.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmg71m2H-coFvNmo9HA11gL0M3eXXY7gHswlzu5j2y9v6c8bTckJtqM1BDyd-Ft_9E46Pjl2H-D0-2AcLac1PL_pyxsfqKPX-KV5zX1yitpGW18-rIEzeLK0PtWGsEdzHI4FkwZ0CiIS7/s1600/DSC01847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmg71m2H-coFvNmo9HA11gL0M3eXXY7gHswlzu5j2y9v6c8bTckJtqM1BDyd-Ft_9E46Pjl2H-D0-2AcLac1PL_pyxsfqKPX-KV5zX1yitpGW18-rIEzeLK0PtWGsEdzHI4FkwZ0CiIS7/s400/DSC01847.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided I wanted to do Bonnie Hunter's new mystery quilt called </div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2012/11/easy-street-mystery-part-1.html">Easy Street</a>. The colours she has used are lime green, aqua, purple, grey with black and white prints for backgrounds. I loved her colours, I knew I had plenty of the lime greens and purples but I really didn't think I had much aqua/turquoise or grey. I surprised myself when I went through my stash that I did have enough aquas, and although I did have greys they were very dirty greys and I decided against using them. I've gone with orange instead and I'll just have to hope it works out okay. I like all those colours together so it should be right. Thats the fun of a mystery right? </div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsksNktJLnP0CSc1g85q83x6wzgJyBFew_WPEHOdYRsJw1USbeqvnWpFh5Fyn6wdmyfRJjxKrEKZWYN98m2LWBTnhGdF7yNmrLrSErKXKjtPXipz8Ly64UET2Vyu4NBkvGlrSqQrXyWG3/s1600/DSC01853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsksNktJLnP0CSc1g85q83x6wzgJyBFew_WPEHOdYRsJw1USbeqvnWpFh5Fyn6wdmyfRJjxKrEKZWYN98m2LWBTnhGdF7yNmrLrSErKXKjtPXipz8Ly64UET2Vyu4NBkvGlrSqQrXyWG3/s400/DSC01853.JPG" tea="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the first clue. 2" strips made into 4 patches. Instead of greys I've got my orange fabric, it is a good contrast against the black on white background fabrics. I don't want to make my quilt as big as Bonnie's so I won't be making as many blocks as she did. There is 71 4 patches so far. I'm aiming to do as she suggested and make some of each step so I don't get left behind and I will have part of the quilt done at the end. Last years mystery is still in a box waiting to be finished. What's another UFO here or there? Most of the fabrics I've pulled out for this quilt are older ones too so thats a bonus. I won't count the 8 or 9 metres of black on white prints that I ordered this week to replace the ones I'm using. Some fabrics are just staples right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Stitching</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
Debra. </div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /> </div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-77034141838081416202012-11-14T05:01:00.001-08:002012-11-14T05:01:52.789-08:00Scrappy Trip Around the World progress.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUmO_qcwu01Hj_EG8gXyIUo86jswQ4yVkqtdOaz5G4SMbyNWNvzv3NczNG6lk_zLPH3c-sbGbNnUi_kJvzVcasWBgzjJ9oy0BocbZRQ0deJOva7fPQJWMyeenNQ3m05YVdCFRPLQb4xLF/s1600/DSC01841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUmO_qcwu01Hj_EG8gXyIUo86jswQ4yVkqtdOaz5G4SMbyNWNvzv3NczNG6lk_zLPH3c-sbGbNnUi_kJvzVcasWBgzjJ9oy0BocbZRQ0deJOva7fPQJWMyeenNQ3m05YVdCFRPLQb4xLF/s400/DSC01841.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Hi there, I'm still busy cutting up my basket of old fabrics. It's going to take a while to get through them but there's no rush so I do a few every day or so. I've got so many strips I'll have a headstart on quite a few scrappy quilts.<br />
<br />
The photo above shows the blocks I've finished so far for Bonnie Hunters' Scrappy Trip Around the World quilt. I'm liking how it is turning out. I am finding it a bit challenging working with the colours in these older fabrics. It is an interesting exercise to see if I can "pretty" the blocks up.<br />
. <br />
Here is the link to the <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com.au/2005/06/scrappy-trips-around-world.html">Bonnie Hunter</a> pattern. Her patterns are very easy to follow with plenty of photos.<br />
<br />
I've sorted out a bit more of my stash but I'm not quite finished yet. I've got a stack of storage boxes in the hallway and I'm still not sure where they are going to go. Might be a hop skip and a jump to an episode of Hoarders!! I haven't bought any fabric for about 3 or 4 weeks which is a record for me I'm sure. I am trying to be good but its not easy.<br />
<br />
I went out on Sunday with Tracey and we had a really enjoyable day. We went to our favourite scrapbooking shop in Mornington and kidded ourselves that we weren't going to buy very much. We now realise thats an impossibility. They have so much gorgeous paper and all kinds of creative arty stuff.<br />
<br />
It really is hard to find time to do everything I want to do. I bought a nice selection of supplies (I do realise the money I didn't spend on fabric I spent on art supplies) hahaha. Then because it was 2.30 and we hadn't had lunch we decided to stop at Lintons Nursery on the way home for lunch and a look around. There were lots of people out enjoying the lovely day. The cafe was very popular and our lunch was really good. We had a wander around outside and admired the plants then spent quite a while inside where there is a really great selection of homewares and lovely gifty things. I did manage to resist buying anything, there were lots of things I would have liked though. Remembering I should be downsizing helps.<br />
<br />
That's all for now its getting late and I have work tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching<br />
<br />
Debra.Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-53002118529523889022012-11-08T05:16:00.001-08:002012-11-08T05:16:53.065-08:00Scrappy Quilts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Hi there,</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I've had a busy couple of weeks but I have managed to fit in some stitching. This scrappy quilt is one of my favourites. It is one of my early ones and uses a lot of the fabrics that I have just cleaned out of my stash. I still haven't quite finished my cleanout that I started 2 weeks ago...</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFLt-W7LEkVAl52K-B-hZpuLDJg5k5eakyH8aLRZXkZObZxihbv4qZS8_QwiESqzIGntr8P1PfdOEby2MDj-nkhcLivvuI1ljClWWx8RHw4nngDnLmffseNJs3W8UkBzgXBtqieS9-ig9/s1600/DSC01812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFLt-W7LEkVAl52K-B-hZpuLDJg5k5eakyH8aLRZXkZObZxihbv4qZS8_QwiESqzIGntr8P1PfdOEby2MDj-nkhcLivvuI1ljClWWx8RHw4nngDnLmffseNJs3W8UkBzgXBtqieS9-ig9/s400/DSC01812.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtS3x1Lwki0APoNrKHvQcHZhvPjh7HwdMTrU42MghRpVWtbHr-jnijwHAdXgo_3raqhIcIoHYjV7JlHxWyFiIO-gcvH2L9kh8DFZlwqtcZy3VIK7pONqDNFXWhPbEXqAgW_9mMDzAIh07R/s1600/DSC01834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtS3x1Lwki0APoNrKHvQcHZhvPjh7HwdMTrU42MghRpVWtbHr-jnijwHAdXgo_3raqhIcIoHYjV7JlHxWyFiIO-gcvH2L9kh8DFZlwqtcZy3VIK7pONqDNFXWhPbEXqAgW_9mMDzAIh07R/s400/DSC01834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Here is Jack at his </strong><br />
<strong>Valedictory dinner, he received 3 awards I was very proud of him. It was a lovely night, Jack has really enjoyed his time at school. We went out for tea tonight to celebrate most of his exams being over. His art exam is next </strong><br />
<strong>Thursday then thats it. I'm hoping I might find some more time to sew while he's away on holidays. </strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyO4jTROoZBeCL8z__RKmx1KbIwxqbOHvLXAEuGAyytJ06uJxz7tvugkOI3NKxm1_2g_T0y6T_WhOmynekGOLOCWgxmRsr4dWNW0AZYf5k-_IpfyiQjL2moUo_qjI73BL84FCAJEJ650JT/s1600/DSC01837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyO4jTROoZBeCL8z__RKmx1KbIwxqbOHvLXAEuGAyytJ06uJxz7tvugkOI3NKxm1_2g_T0y6T_WhOmynekGOLOCWgxmRsr4dWNW0AZYf5k-_IpfyiQjL2moUo_qjI73BL84FCAJEJ650JT/s400/DSC01837.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Here's what I cleared out of my stash, the fabric on the chair went to the op shop. I'm going to cut up the piles on my ironing board and use them for more scrap quilts. I'm ironing them first so it is going to take me a while to get these all cut up.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>There are a couple of quilts I want to start making using these scraps. I've started Bonnie Hunters Scrappy Trips Around the World. It should use up quite a few of my 2.5 inch strips. It is a bit strange cause I've gotten used to using my bright fabrics and these will be very different. I might get some photos taken for next time.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Till then Happy Sewing,</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Debra.</strong>Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-71237296170192015202012-10-24T05:27:00.000-07:002012-10-24T05:27:17.170-07:00Chaos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yVUPxHZktAd_OnBPEx1vQP1ryw-LZJtiQE6iF-WtSL8l2a3BCeT8eOuOUnu-id7XY4iYvITiMlunqatDrnzQcoMxkEMEcg9iC3F5orS-dUDdpRsJiX8nfbtxy10ZEcUpGGwfRaIziWN7/s1600/DSC01830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yVUPxHZktAd_OnBPEx1vQP1ryw-LZJtiQE6iF-WtSL8l2a3BCeT8eOuOUnu-id7XY4iYvITiMlunqatDrnzQcoMxkEMEcg9iC3F5orS-dUDdpRsJiX8nfbtxy10ZEcUpGGwfRaIziWN7/s400/DSC01830.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Rearranging my fabric storage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQs60VAjGqoMt9XwLpgH-r1laffKxg65GH7aSe3yd0RsQ8q-XiqOJLb3bDUrWXZxMiGwLP7eqxQZzelWaeiJLbzTiOFxfx-TaxswXRlbwbsTd5jkGqEWRqs6k2g8wCo778FpzEOkjkNGHa/s1600/DSC01831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQs60VAjGqoMt9XwLpgH-r1laffKxg65GH7aSe3yd0RsQ8q-XiqOJLb3bDUrWXZxMiGwLP7eqxQZzelWaeiJLbzTiOFxfx-TaxswXRlbwbsTd5jkGqEWRqs6k2g8wCo778FpzEOkjkNGHa/s400/DSC01831.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
5 hours later, still sorting.....Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9206644408301327957.post-83153580327392917292012-10-14T06:38:00.000-07:002012-10-14T06:52:40.744-07:00Out and About<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Hi there, last Sunday I went to see the <a href="http://quiltsinthebarnaus.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/come-walk-around-barn-with-me.html">Quilts in the Barn</a> exhibition in Wonga Park with a couple of my patchwork friends. Here is <a href="http://noscrapstoosmall.blogspot.com.au/">Susan</a>, taking a photo of me taking a photo of her. I won't show any more photos of the quilt show cause the Quilts in the Barn blog has photos of the whole exhibit. I have been going to this exhibition for quite a few years, its always an enjoyable day out and Linda and her helpers put a lot of work into making it a great show. </strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>We went to The Patchwork Teahouse</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong> in Warburton next and had a really lovely lunch. We had a really nice day even though we discovered our favourite antique/homewares shop had closed down.</strong> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVvLhDnUsEjALdYaGGWIhCOBboY6uhAlakw9RaWI4SBjMANwtlk6BApz98qL3rifrmlJ85KKscw5pdlzKMH-V7rHgiMb95jwOQlbZwZmMq-0Pyne4TsSA3zMG-I17dxjBJDBvTWhRoDCL/s1600/DSC01799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVvLhDnUsEjALdYaGGWIhCOBboY6uhAlakw9RaWI4SBjMANwtlk6BApz98qL3rifrmlJ85KKscw5pdlzKMH-V7rHgiMb95jwOQlbZwZmMq-0Pyne4TsSA3zMG-I17dxjBJDBvTWhRoDCL/s400/DSC01799.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmxiVNINrz9xJvyv7ZFjimC4oc3kcht8wMyk5fdV4oljb-AledOd1w-G1Uy4xg3Fo5ud7DRDpLWf-dAyZKtog-Jd8lUCprhDUlvhnu-MNv4YjmAdfPYh9jfKYssLRrUBYZE6eNHfp9VVv/s1600/DSC01807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmxiVNINrz9xJvyv7ZFjimC4oc3kcht8wMyk5fdV4oljb-AledOd1w-G1Uy4xg3Fo5ud7DRDpLWf-dAyZKtog-Jd8lUCprhDUlvhnu-MNv4YjmAdfPYh9jfKYssLRrUBYZE6eNHfp9VVv/s400/DSC01807.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>I haven't done a lot of work on my crochet hexagons lately but I think these blocks should be enough to finish it. Then there is the border to think about. Haven't decided what I'm going to do about that yet. There's an awful lot of ends to sew in too.</strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFO04Did6LVD5c3e16ivuP4V_JFzoJX-qorXWQHdKzivZb-mPJAP_GHVJWnde9no_xditoaaLpcG4mVvcLgPUgyUlZW0YIUhg0MTxcjf-zpWwVPv1ESBEjFyVVaXb2DVL_aoFkpQBiYObD/s1600/DSC01809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFO04Did6LVD5c3e16ivuP4V_JFzoJX-qorXWQHdKzivZb-mPJAP_GHVJWnde9no_xditoaaLpcG4mVvcLgPUgyUlZW0YIUhg0MTxcjf-zpWwVPv1ESBEjFyVVaXb2DVL_aoFkpQBiYObD/s400/DSC01809.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>Isn't this owl the cutest? She had to come home with me last weekend, I had a memory lapse and forgot about downsizing and the fact my shelves are overcrowded already. I have a nice collection of owls now, maybe they remind me of my night owl tendencies! </strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFp5CrzqNDhMPd0CPbnHtl_W7mVjswLd9D_JjqndUTOUHymJeV9mKEwL5KylA2V6pI2yC-yDHSKQuRginhrjJG-9O9L8JUOF-3Dw27jrq4EXux5MvmKdBVVQUtKPE1UWBlZLd6HCL4EUXk/s1600/DSC01811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFp5CrzqNDhMPd0CPbnHtl_W7mVjswLd9D_JjqndUTOUHymJeV9mKEwL5KylA2V6pI2yC-yDHSKQuRginhrjJG-9O9L8JUOF-3Dw27jrq4EXux5MvmKdBVVQUtKPE1UWBlZLd6HCL4EUXk/s400/DSC01811.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<strong>We had a lovely spring day today, a perfect day to wash some quilts. This one was an old Country Threads pattern I think. I do remember that it was one of my first attempts at needle turn applique and I thought I'd never get the hearts finished. The main fabrics are all early Robin Pandolph fabrics. I was in love with all her early ranges and I still have most of them in my stash as I thought they were too special to cut. Now they're practically vintage.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I have been busting to use my kitchen table but my son has been using it to study for his exams. He does have a desk in his bedroom which he can't use at the moment cause its covered in clothes etc. What is it with teenage boys and messy bedrooms? We have endless discussions about tidying his room, its like beating my head against a brick wall...</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>I've tried being patient but I keep thinking about all the things I can't do till I get my table back. Today I decided to get out my fold up trestle table and take it outside to work on.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>It was great, now that the weather is improving I might do this more often. I wanted to work out the applique borders for my Jubilee quilt and the trestle table was perfect for this. I couldn't pin my vines down until I drew out my applique shapes but at least I got a start on it.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Why couldn't I do this on my own sewing room table you might ask? Cause it's covered in too much stuff!!!</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Its time all us night owls were in bed.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Bye for now.</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Debra.</strong> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaQ47_7awJnvqT5wrCTr0zb5epK81G4cJWV0Kk5tRU86CRPKSdG_yB47SkQOpQP1Vzuf5y5L2oR4vm56brEbfDM4H1yAlrc2ReRdELS0sDEQtWb19uDaRM2WSNednH02oi2hmGZKAJuqm/s1600/DSC01821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaQ47_7awJnvqT5wrCTr0zb5epK81G4cJWV0Kk5tRU86CRPKSdG_yB47SkQOpQP1Vzuf5y5L2oR4vm56brEbfDM4H1yAlrc2ReRdELS0sDEQtWb19uDaRM2WSNednH02oi2hmGZKAJuqm/s400/DSC01821.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Debrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10791297786827111718noreply@blogger.com1