We had a fun day at our local quilt group yesterday making non-quilting things. One of the ladies was going to show us how to make a snap closing bag and I was doing a session on making pin cushion chickens.
We decided to do the chickens first and that was as far as we got. This group of creative ladies decided to put wings on their chickens which I hadn't done. I had to-if you will forgive the really bad pun, wing it. We stumbled and laughed our way through that part and on to the rest. Counting myself, there were 8 ladies making the chickens and what a time it was.
There were a lot of false starts, many repeated instructions, suggestions (!) of alternative methods and, above all, laugher. At the end of the session, everyone did complete a chicken and we made the decision to leave the bag until the following week. The ladies then went on to try a few variations.
I've promised to write up a set of detailed instructions that will include photos and some of the variations. I am going to try making one of white satin and lace.
We all found that making these things are addictive.
The craft sale on Saturday went fairly well. I sold some of my things-including a number of chickens, as well as some of the quilt groups products.
My husband isn't feeling well today and is in bed. I am hoping he doesn't have the flu as we are supposed to be going away tomorrow and Saturday.
Blessings,
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Scrappy Pattern for You
I have had a busy morning. I've made four quart jars of chili sauce, six 500 ml of jam and a huge pot of pumpkin carrot soup. I want to make some cranberry chutney but that can wait for another day.
A friend sent me a link to a scrappy quilt pattern that I thought you might like. The designer, Cindy Carter is providing it free of charge but please make sure you read her copyright instructions.
the link is: http://carterquilter.wordpress.com.
My husband is doing some more work on the addition. Things have pretty much stopped lately as I have been busy getting ready for a craft show, cooking etc and he has been hunting. We still hope to have it done so I can more in before Christmas but life involves other things as well.
Hope you enjoy the pattern.
Blessings,
A friend sent me a link to a scrappy quilt pattern that I thought you might like. The designer, Cindy Carter is providing it free of charge but please make sure you read her copyright instructions.
the link is: http://carterquilter.wordpress.com.
My husband is doing some more work on the addition. Things have pretty much stopped lately as I have been busy getting ready for a craft show, cooking etc and he has been hunting. We still hope to have it done so I can more in before Christmas but life involves other things as well.
Hope you enjoy the pattern.
Blessings,
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
A Small flock
I am making little pin cushion chickens. A great way to use up bits and pieces of fabric. Am also thawing tomatoes and fruit so I can make chili sauce and jam tomorrow. That is two different recipes not some weird combination.
Took my car in to get the winter tires done this morning and am waiting for them to call so I can pick it up. I find it hard to get into anything when I am waiting for someone/thing.
My quilt room is an absolute mess again. I had kept it tidy for a while and then I was looking for something and there are boxes and fabric all over the place. Tidying that up might be a good thing to do while waiting for that phone call.
I really am looking forward to getting into my new quilt studio so I can have everything where I can see it. Even though my various things are in labeled clear totes, I still have to root around trying to find the correct one and, if I am just looking for a piece of fabric that 'might' do, the rooting turns into a mess. I know I shouldn't complain. Many quilters have to sew on their kitchen table. I really am fortunate. I not only have a nice room but am getting a bigger one. Even more important is that I am married to someone who supports what I do. (There now I feel better)
I hope, if you are American, that you took time to vote yesterday. I recently watched a video that showed how really dreadful women were treated when they tried to get the right to vote. I am afraid it is now another of those rights we take for granted.
Blessings,
Took my car in to get the winter tires done this morning and am waiting for them to call so I can pick it up. I find it hard to get into anything when I am waiting for someone/thing.
My quilt room is an absolute mess again. I had kept it tidy for a while and then I was looking for something and there are boxes and fabric all over the place. Tidying that up might be a good thing to do while waiting for that phone call.
I really am looking forward to getting into my new quilt studio so I can have everything where I can see it. Even though my various things are in labeled clear totes, I still have to root around trying to find the correct one and, if I am just looking for a piece of fabric that 'might' do, the rooting turns into a mess. I know I shouldn't complain. Many quilters have to sew on their kitchen table. I really am fortunate. I not only have a nice room but am getting a bigger one. Even more important is that I am married to someone who supports what I do. (There now I feel better)
I hope, if you are American, that you took time to vote yesterday. I recently watched a video that showed how really dreadful women were treated when they tried to get the right to vote. I am afraid it is now another of those rights we take for granted.
 |
| A Small flock |
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Melted Dessert
I got my maple leaf quilt back yesterday from the lady who did the quilting. I am really pleased with it. I just have to add the binding and that one will be done. It will have to wait until next week though as I have some odds and end to make for our local craft fair.
I already have quite a few larger items so I want to do some pin cushions, bibs, aprons and a couple of fabric decorations. I am going to get started right after I finish writing this as the sale is Saturday.
I don't much feel like doing it as I have had a headache all day. Not sure if it is the weather or something else.
I saw a cardinal today when I was driving home from Huntsville. a neighbour told me tha tthey had had one in the bird feeder so I have been keeping any eye out. I can't even remember when I last saw one.
I was a bit annoyed at the checkout person (actually more than 'a bit) where I got my groceries today. I have a number of freezer bags that I always take as it is, at best, a half hour before I get home from the store. I make a habit of always putting the freezer stuff on the counter first so it is easier for the staff person to pack.
I don't always see what they are doing, although I try to watch, as I am getting things on the belt. I did notice he was not doing a very good job of packing and, in fact, had to put some of the spare plastic bags I carry and he used into one of the larger fabric bags. When I got home, I found that he had put dog food, celery and other items in a freezer bag and the ice cream, milk, etc. in a regular one.
I phoned the store to complain. It had been 3 hours from the time I left the store until I got home as I had to do other shopping, go for my mammo and have lunch so you can imagine what happened to the ice cream.
The manager said he would replace anything that I thought had been harmed which I appreciated. The ice cream was the only thing that suffered because, thankfully, it is cool today. However, I really just wanted to make sure that the young man was was told that he actions weren't acceptable.
Now on to that sewing.
Blessings,
I already have quite a few larger items so I want to do some pin cushions, bibs, aprons and a couple of fabric decorations. I am going to get started right after I finish writing this as the sale is Saturday.
I don't much feel like doing it as I have had a headache all day. Not sure if it is the weather or something else.
I saw a cardinal today when I was driving home from Huntsville. a neighbour told me tha tthey had had one in the bird feeder so I have been keeping any eye out. I can't even remember when I last saw one.
I was a bit annoyed at the checkout person (actually more than 'a bit) where I got my groceries today. I have a number of freezer bags that I always take as it is, at best, a half hour before I get home from the store. I make a habit of always putting the freezer stuff on the counter first so it is easier for the staff person to pack.
I don't always see what they are doing, although I try to watch, as I am getting things on the belt. I did notice he was not doing a very good job of packing and, in fact, had to put some of the spare plastic bags I carry and he used into one of the larger fabric bags. When I got home, I found that he had put dog food, celery and other items in a freezer bag and the ice cream, milk, etc. in a regular one.
I phoned the store to complain. It had been 3 hours from the time I left the store until I got home as I had to do other shopping, go for my mammo and have lunch so you can imagine what happened to the ice cream.
The manager said he would replace anything that I thought had been harmed which I appreciated. The ice cream was the only thing that suffered because, thankfully, it is cool today. However, I really just wanted to make sure that the young man was was told that he actions weren't acceptable.
Now on to that sewing.
Blessings,
Friday, November 2, 2012
World's Best Soup
We arrived back from shopping a short time ago and noticed that the hydro had been out. When I went into the studio, I saw that the computer monitor was blank. Mini panic. Turned everything off, back on. Nothing. Waited for an eon or two and there it was. I am so attached to my computer that losing it can send me into a bit of a tizzy.
I bought some backing fabric for my wedding quilt while in town and then picked up at parcel at the post office which contained more fabric so I have my material fix for a bit. I have a pattern that needs to be made up as a sample so had to get the fabric for that. Also bought more of the backing material that I am using in one of the hand applique projects because I was afraid I wouldn't have enough. That happens to me frequently which, if I am doing a scrappy it isn't too much of a problem. However, that rarely seems to be the time when I discover I need another few inches of a particular colour.
I mentioned to one of the ladies in group that I am, one day, going to pick out a pattern and buy all the fabric I need to make it. She reminded me that as we often change our mind as to where we want a fabric to go that my plan probably still wouldn't work. I guess I will stick with my usual habit of finding-or designing, a pattern that uses what I already have or mostly have.
I have a new favourite restaurant. We had lunch at a place called The Farmer's Daughter in Huntsville and the food was fabulous. I had mushroom soup and was angling for the recipe. Definitely a place that will get further business from me.
Blessings,
I bought some backing fabric for my wedding quilt while in town and then picked up at parcel at the post office which contained more fabric so I have my material fix for a bit. I have a pattern that needs to be made up as a sample so had to get the fabric for that. Also bought more of the backing material that I am using in one of the hand applique projects because I was afraid I wouldn't have enough. That happens to me frequently which, if I am doing a scrappy it isn't too much of a problem. However, that rarely seems to be the time when I discover I need another few inches of a particular colour.
I mentioned to one of the ladies in group that I am, one day, going to pick out a pattern and buy all the fabric I need to make it. She reminded me that as we often change our mind as to where we want a fabric to go that my plan probably still wouldn't work. I guess I will stick with my usual habit of finding-or designing, a pattern that uses what I already have or mostly have.
I have a new favourite restaurant. We had lunch at a place called The Farmer's Daughter in Huntsville and the food was fabulous. I had mushroom soup and was angling for the recipe. Definitely a place that will get further business from me.
Blessings,
And Now It Starts
We had our first snow last night. Warning for new readers! This is the time of year when I go on and on about how much I love winter, how beautiful it is , how I love being outside on the crisp days, how I...well you get the idea. This really is my favourite time of year. I do try to give everyone a break a few times a week and talk about other things such as how cut my dog looks chasing the snow.
I'm kidding about the last bit although she really does. Quilting is still my main purpose for this blog so I do focus on that. The latest edition of the Quilt Pattern Magazine came out yesterday. This is an e mag and I have a monthly column. I have been a writer for eons but it is still a thrill to see my words in print. The quilt I used to illustrate the article is one that is in my book and I am glad to see it reproduced clearly. When you are taking photos for e publications that will be printed, you have to be extra careful about crispness. My book will be downloadable; first time doing that, so it is a 'learn as you go' process.
News reports show that conditions are still pretty difficult in the areas that were most affected by Sandy. I know everyone is doing there best to restore hydro, provide shelter etc. but it must be scary for those living in the situation as the weather gets colder.
I have made a huge pot of stew this morning and it is simmering on the wood stove. I am going to spend the rest of the day working on a quilt top and the stories for the book.
My sister arrives from England today to visit her son and his family. I will be going to see them later on this month.
Stay safe.
Blessings,
I'm kidding about the last bit although she really does. Quilting is still my main purpose for this blog so I do focus on that. The latest edition of the Quilt Pattern Magazine came out yesterday. This is an e mag and I have a monthly column. I have been a writer for eons but it is still a thrill to see my words in print. The quilt I used to illustrate the article is one that is in my book and I am glad to see it reproduced clearly. When you are taking photos for e publications that will be printed, you have to be extra careful about crispness. My book will be downloadable; first time doing that, so it is a 'learn as you go' process.
News reports show that conditions are still pretty difficult in the areas that were most affected by Sandy. I know everyone is doing there best to restore hydro, provide shelter etc. but it must be scary for those living in the situation as the weather gets colder.
I have made a huge pot of stew this morning and it is simmering on the wood stove. I am going to spend the rest of the day working on a quilt top and the stories for the book.
My sister arrives from England today to visit her son and his family. I will be going to see them later on this month.
Stay safe.
Blessings,
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Storms and Wild Animals
It has been a longer than normal length between posts. On Tuesday, our hydro was out and then we had company. Yesterday, we were away and, after we got home, I forgot.
Hurricane Sandy has left such devastation and it is going to take years to recover. I am thankful that there wasn't a great loss of life although if there was only one and that person was someone close to you, it is devastating. We have have had two deaths in Ontario but many more in in other countries. Rescuing continues as well as restoring hydro, transit systems and normalcy.
I can't help but wonder how many of those that needed rescuing from their homes were people who ignored warnings to evacuate. Perhaps none of them but it does seem like there are always a few who feel they know better than experts and then depend on others to save them if they are wrong.
This doesn't just happen during storm related disasters. I've seen the same pattern during thin ice warnings, approaching fires or signs telling the public not to feed wild animals. Some people still refuse to use seat belts, put down their cell phones or avoid driving when intoxicated.
These folk insist they have the right to choose but when their choice puts others at risk they have made the wrong choice.
I have finally finished my maple leaf quilt top and it is being quilted as I write. I am working on another top now as well as making a dress.
My husband continues to make progress on the addition. It is mostly the detail stuff now. I am going to pick up some paint today to do the window trim and the ceiling boards. Deer hunting starts next week so he will be taking a well deserved rest.
Hard to believe tomorrow is Friday already.
Blessings,
Hurricane Sandy has left such devastation and it is going to take years to recover. I am thankful that there wasn't a great loss of life although if there was only one and that person was someone close to you, it is devastating. We have have had two deaths in Ontario but many more in in other countries. Rescuing continues as well as restoring hydro, transit systems and normalcy.
I can't help but wonder how many of those that needed rescuing from their homes were people who ignored warnings to evacuate. Perhaps none of them but it does seem like there are always a few who feel they know better than experts and then depend on others to save them if they are wrong.
This doesn't just happen during storm related disasters. I've seen the same pattern during thin ice warnings, approaching fires or signs telling the public not to feed wild animals. Some people still refuse to use seat belts, put down their cell phones or avoid driving when intoxicated.
These folk insist they have the right to choose but when their choice puts others at risk they have made the wrong choice.
I have finally finished my maple leaf quilt top and it is being quilted as I write. I am working on another top now as well as making a dress.
My husband continues to make progress on the addition. It is mostly the detail stuff now. I am going to pick up some paint today to do the window trim and the ceiling boards. Deer hunting starts next week so he will be taking a well deserved rest.
Hard to believe tomorrow is Friday already.
Blessings,
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