Patches Quilt Works

Tea Cup Quilt

2010-05-06T05:44:00.003-07:00

wish I would have done the quilting different, but I like it ok. I'm kind of scared to wash it.

Two more ready to ship.

2010-04-29T06:03:00.004-07:00

These are for my new cousins in Oregon. I'm really pleased with the results of the maching quilting.

Kaylee's quilt

Brenna's quilt

Quilted, bound and ready to ship

2010-04-26T05:28:00.002-07:00

Drews quilt.

3 little bears...

2010-03-27T14:35:00.003-07:00

This is the last baby quilt that I have to make for a while, this one is for another new cousin. I really like the green on it. The 3 bears fabric I have had for years and never had a good use until now. Very pleased with the end product. I will bind it in the same green. But, to tell you the truth, I hope I'm done with pink for a while. I really should plan better before I start sewing, these are all the extra 3.5" squares I have, someday I'll learn to do that.
6 quilts all ready for my day on the long arm quilter, I'm sure I won't get through them all but I'd rather have to many than get them all done and have more time.

New Cards

2010-03-26T07:04:00.003-07:00

My very talented husband loves to make things like this. I needed my number changed on my cards so he just redid the whole thing, didn't he do great. I love them. It has my phone number under my name, but for my piece of mind, I took it off for this post.

Kaylee's quilt

2010-03-26T06:58:00.002-07:00

One more ready for my day on the long arm and one more to go. This is my favorite stack and wack pattern. But if you use more than 2 colors it is a pain in the butt.

Drews Quilt

2010-03-14T08:17:00.004-07:00

I was at 'Trains and Fabric' in Tacoma peddling my patterns. I sold 6 to her and got all this fabric plus a dollar and change back. That's the way to shop.

And here is how I used it with a few pieces of my older scraps. I think I'll bind it with the blue. This is for my new nephew, Drew.

3 all ready

2010-03-12T17:46:00.003-08:00

I have 3 tops ready for the long arm quilting machine on April 10th. Can't wait, I had so much fun the first time. This is one I made last year in Feb. and just finished the top. I had to add the part with the tea pots on and was not sure what to do there, not sure I really like the top part but it is ok and has been sitting around long enough. I'd like to have one more done just in case I run out of quilts and still have time left.

Brady's Quilt

2010-03-11T20:24:00.002-08:00

I love the zig zag sashing, as you can tell by how many times I have done it.

More Wonky Houses

2010-03-08T06:00:00.002-08:00

This is my March block, I love the little bunny in the window. I think we just have April and May to go. Can't wait to see them.

2010-02-15T06:28:00.000-08:00

This is what I started this weekend, a "Now I know my ABC's" quilt, for my new nephew. I have 7 more blocks to go then I can start putting them together. I'd like to have it done by Saturday, when I go visit them, but not to likely 'cause I want to hand quilt it.

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T07:20:00.003-08:00

I put these hearts on tea towels and although I think the hearts are cute they really didn't work for me because the towels don't fold the way I like, oh well, I got a chance to practice my blanket stitch.

Judy's Quilt all done.

2010-02-09T06:26:00.002-08:00

This is the effect I got from not pre-washing and using raw edge applique. Just what I was trying for.

All Framed Up

2010-02-06T21:02:00.002-08:00

I spent the morning at Trains, Fabric ect. on the long arm quilter. I loved it, yep, I'm hooked! Can't wait until April when I scheduled another date. I hope Judy likes this as much as I do.

Febrary's Fabulous Flat

2010-01-30T10:49:00.002-08:00

made by Patt Casadei

isn't it wonderful, she even sent a little heart button for the door knob when it is done being quilted.

Change of plans

2010-01-05T05:37:00.002-08:00

The pattern does not specify that I should be making 3 each of these blocks but for the quilt to work at the end I have to. So I have changed my plan. I will just make a 12" star a day until I have enough to make a quilt, and hope I can find enough different ones to never repeat the pattern.

Jan 4-Variable Star

Just Playing

2010-01-03T21:17:00.006-08:00

Last year for Christmas, my mom gave me this quilt calendar. I love it and spent a lot of time looking at it but never started it. This year I'll see how far I can go, without buying any fabric for these blocks. I'm always looking for ways to use up my scraps.

The first day is just a description of the quilt made with the first set of blocks. I have decided to wait to do the Court House Steps blocks until the end so I can see where it takes me. I don't want to be held back by the fabric chosen in those.
Jan 2-Ohio Star
Jan 3-Pinwheel Star
I know, like I really need to start something new!

Quilting Bee any one?

2010-01-02T07:43:00.003-08:00

I finished this top years ago and just got it all basted for some hand quilting. It is 101"x101", yes huge, so who is up for some gossip, herbal tea and some hand quilting. Sorry no barn to raise for the guys. Wouldn't that be fun? Now how to quilt it. It may not be the prettiest quilt top but I love it because every piece of fabric in it reminds me of another project I did long ago.

Just a little something to brighten the new year.

2010-01-01T19:55:00.002-08:00

I saw this fabric and couldn't resist, so I had to find something to make using it. I think the tea towels were a perfect way to start the new year, although we still don't have any snow.

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T07:07:00.005-08:00

Yep, I finally found a use for this great fabric.

HELP!

2009-12-17T06:41:00.005-08:00

I started this last Feb. and would like to finish it but I am blocked at what I should do. Sorry about the picture, I can't crop anymore for some reason. I was thinking small boarder in black, large 4 peice boarder in the pinks, cut the teapots apart, write something between them and put them on the top between the 2 boarders. Any other ideas? You can get a better look it you click on the "Tea Time Quilt" tag at the bottom.

Zebra

2009-12-16T16:06:00.001-08:00

3 zoo residents...

Happy Hippo

2009-12-16T10:19:00.003-08:00

I'm not sure about this one.

Judy's quilt top done!!!

2009-12-16T07:55:00.002-08:00

This quilt is called "Pocketful of Posies" from a book called "Flowering Quilts" by Kim Schaefer. The only real difference is I did raw edge applique and hers is satin stitched. All of this fabric (and more) was a gift from my friend Judy so I thought I'd make her a quilt with it. I will wait until next month and then sign up to use the quilting machine at a local quilt shop, I've never used one so I'm really looking forward to giving it a try.

2009-12-06T10:54:00.003-08:00

Little update on the swap, here is September through December. Aren't they wonderful. I'm next, I hope they like mine as much as I love these!

Im Back.....

2009-11-29T09:38:00.003-08:00

I started a new quilt this morning called 'Animal Blocks'. I'm thinking all of the animals get a matching block with the letter it starts with. All done in bright girly colors. Each block is only 8x8 so it is going to take alot to make a usable quilt. I love it when I have time to play in my sewing room...it has been so long. But my life is calming a bit or maybe I am just getting used to it, so I may have a little more time. These animal blocks are from a book called 'A Quilter's Ark' by Margaret Rolfe, there are 50 airmails all paper pieced and great pictures for ideas.

Trash to Treasure

2009-08-17T06:59:00.004-07:00

A trip to the thrift store and 5$ poorer. But I got a big bag a mostly quilt shop quality fabrics. These are the ones that were big enough to iron and fold, some are more than a yard.

P.S. at the same thrift store I scored a king size quilt frame for 8$!

it's growing...

2009-08-13T18:08:00.002-07:00

I still can't crop, so you get to see my mess. Not sure if I like the way I am doing the sashing, what do you think?

Step 3 of Judy's quilt not quite done.

2009-08-11T11:33:00.001-07:00

This is the first 11 of 30 blocks (unless it gets to big-I should measure,na). I hope to have it done by Christmas.

Quick note

2009-08-11T09:58:00.005-07:00

I have missed you all so much, but tomorrow is my final test and then I can start sewing a little again. In the mean time I did get three more wonky blocks in the mail for May, June and July. How cute are these? Thanks Lady's for the outstanding job you have done on them. I can't remember who's is who's so no labels unless you speak up.

Also my sister took a trip and brought me back more sand to add to my collection.

Fort Point under the San Fransico bridge.
Zuma Beach, CA

Lahoya Beach, CA

For some reason I can't crop the pics, sorry. This will have to do for now and my hubby will fix them later.

For Gina

2009-05-26T21:23:00.004-07:00

Look how beautiful my city is, this picture is from Alki beach in West Seattle.

I know I have been gone forever. But I really haven't had any time for sewing. I am working outside of my home now and found out last week that I got into the nursing program I was hoping for. So I will have even less time! I did spent some down time this weekend in Seattle with family taking great pictures and I found this great pasta shaped like the space needle! Remember when Gina sent me all that sand to add to my collection, she said she didn't want me to send anything in return and I didn't, but when I saw this I had to get it for her. I also had some Washington themed fabric from a shop hop a few years ago so I made a bag for it and put a fat quarter of the same fabric to add to her stash. I hope she likes it!

This one is just for fun.

It is the troll under the Freemont bridge. That bug used to be orange I think and it is real! I love to take people here. If you want to see more pictures of this look for me on Facebook.

Step 2 of Judy's quilt done.

2009-05-01T21:35:00.002-07:00

The posies are done. All raw edge appliqued so I am hoping that when I wash the quilt the edges will sort of fuzz up. This working out side of the home makes finding time to sew hard, not to mention that I was working on altering my daughters dress and broke all of my sewing machine needles! But I finally got them done.

Mail for me!

2009-04-29T20:42:00.005-07:00

I joined a block swap group and the first one came today. Isn't this just beautiful and she made a towel with matching fabric. Thank you Mary! I love it and can't wait until next month!

Judy's quilt

2009-04-27T14:58:00.003-07:00

I choose a pattern and cut all the fabric. I love this fabric. I hope Judy likes the quilt if I ever have time to finish it! I almost never precut so I am hoping it will make the piecing go a little smoother. This pattern is called "Pocket full of Posies" from a book called "Flowering Quilts" by Kim Schaefer.

Something new!

2009-04-24T19:43:00.002-07:00

My wonderful friend, Judy, came by today and brought me a gift. Wow, look what I got!!! I think she took pity on me, being a fabric-less quilter right now. I met her and her family when they found me to watch there daughter a couple years ago. She doesn't quilt but seems to understand my addiction to fabric, this is the 2nd time she has gifted me with it. Thank you so much Judy, I'm so happy to have all of this and can't wait to start cutting it!

Now that I'm working out side of the home I don't think I'll have the time I did before, but I will some how fit it in. Oh, by the way, I have made a major change in my life. I have set a two week date to close my in-home daycare so I could go back to school to become a nurse aid to start. I have taken a job at a thrift store while I am in school and should be done by the end of the summer. I am going to miss days like today when I can lay on the porch most of the day in the sun and read while the children play. But, after 15 years, I am ready for something new, and I did get to be home with my kids when they were growing up.

Now what will I make? Time to hit the books...Maybe I'll make something for Judy.

There are all Fat Quarters so that book on top looks right...

MORE SAND!!!

2009-04-15T13:26:00.004-07:00

I walk out to the mail box hoping for an unemployment and guess what I found, yep, SAND from Brazil. Gina went on vacation and took the time to collect me all of this beautiful sand. She sent a card with it that states: These sands comes from the state of Alagoas in the North East of Brazil. They are from different beaches. One is from the River Sao Franisco which is a mighty river in the region. I really want to visit these places I have all of the sand from but because I can't I am so thankful that people are willing to help me. Thank you so much Gina any time you need something from Washington you can call on me.This first one is from the river bank of Rio Sao Francisco, Piacabucu village Alagoas State in NE Brazil

And this is from Praia Do Gunga, 33 km from the capital Maceio Alagoas State, NE Brazil, Alcantic Ocean

This is from Praia Do Frances, Alagoas State, Brazil, Atlantic Ocean

And last we have Maragogi Beach, Alagoas state, NE Brazil, Atlantic Ocean

Aren't they all wonderful!!

HAPPY EASTER!

2009-04-12T06:02:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to stop and smell the flowers.

Quilt Class

2009-04-11T20:42:00.001-07:00

I know I have been MIA as of late but I have been stressed so not doing much. My husband got layed off and I am down to one part time day care child so I'm too poor to buy fabric :o( But I did Lead a beginning quilting class today with friends. It was fun, we ate cake and started our blocks. All of them are going to be so different, I love it!

Amy

Valerie
Cathy
Tracy won't let me post her picture until her quilt is done.

ahhh....what a difference a simple boarder makes.

2009-03-27T09:50:00.002-07:00

I'm thinking the dark pink for binding and because it is all batiks machine quilting with a variegated pink thread.

Is the top done?

2009-03-26T21:04:00.002-07:00

Top done maybe, I think it might get a boarder. We'll see.

Tulip block

2009-03-25T08:02:00.003-07:00

I have been a little preoccupied with my budget and face book lately so sewing has been one hold. Do you think we quilters can get a bailout so we can buy more fabric, or will big brother then tell us what to make?

I know I have shown this a few times but I have decided to do it a little different. Because the Batik is so hard to needle turn applique through I decided to try raw edge machine quilting. I am not as happy with the look but it is so much easier on my fingers. And I may even finish it now. One block down, and I will spend today taking out the other block and adding the fusible to it. 3 to go!

Which Sewing Machine Needle Should I Buy?

2009-03-23T17:25:00.004-07:00

Today’s market carries many types of home sewing machine needles. You will find regular sewing needles, embroidery needles, metallic needles, titanium needles and more. Some of these needles have multiple features and all have multiple sizes (9-20). It is no wonder we get confused. This guide is written to give you a better understanding about what you should be buying.

Type of Point:

The first decision you must make is between a sharp point and a ball point (BP) needle. Ball point needles have a rounded tip and are used to push between the fibers when sewing instead of making a hole or a break in the actual fiber. This is why they are used for knits or tightly woven materials. Imagine a run in a stocking; that is what can happen on knit material when using a SHARP needle point. A sharp point needle is what is says, sharp on the end, perfect for woven material.

Type of Needle:

Next you will need to look at the type of the actual needle. Organ needles come in a variety of types, not all of which are discussed in this article.

The basic, a 15x1 HAx1 is the standard home sewing machine needle. It is perfect for most home sewing, quilting, and embroidery machines. It is available is a variety of sizes and it the place to start with most projects. You should try it before going on to a more expensive needle.

Next is the 15x1 ST. This is referred to as the embroidery needle because it comes with a larger eye. This reduces the stress on the thread while embroidering or doing decorative work. It will also accommodate your larger threads, like a metallic or a heavy top stitching thread. If you are getting a lot of thread breakage, then step up to this needle. This needles is also great if you are just having trouble seeing to thread the needle.

The HLx5 needle is a heavy duty needle produced by Organ. If you are bending a lot of needles, then upgrade to this one. It is actually an industrial sized needle, made to go through multiple layers. It is great for heavy embroidery, or sewing on denim, jeans, or even quilting.

Type of Coating:

Needles come in either a chrome finish or a titanium finish. Organ's titanium finished needles are labeled PD for Perfect Durability. These needles have a special coat using the latest ceramic technology. This titanium-nitride is layered on the surface to extend their life by as much as 5 times the chrome plated needles. They are stronger than other needles while maintaining elasticity, thus reducing thread breakage. They are more wear-resistant also. Not all needles types and sizes are offered with the titanium coating. Titanium needles are more costly than chrome plated needles and may not fit all budgets.

Needle Sizing:

There are many guides out there for choosing the correct needle sizes. In fact, many of our sewing machine manuals come with a basic needle guide. The rule of thumb is to use the smallest size needle that you can so as not to leave a hole in your fabric. For very lightweight materials, use the smallest size you can get. Heavy denim may take a size 14 or 16. This is an area not set in stone, but more of something you will get a feel for the more that you sew. You will KNOW when you need to go up a size (or down). Trust your instincts.

How Often Should I Change the Needle:

Some will tell you to change your needle with every project, some will say every 8 hours. Here again you need to trust your instincts. If that needle has been in there since you bought your machine, chances are that it is WAY overdue. But if you just did a small project on a new needle, it will probably be good for a few more. Changing your needle not only depends upon time, but how you were using it and on what material. Doing heavy embroidery will dull a needle and your machine will tell you ("I wonder why this design is looping all of a sudden"). Another key
sign is thread breaking during embroidery (when it wasn't before). This may also be a sign of too small of a needle.” If you’re unsure, change the needle, especially if doing embroidery. Use the old ones for hanging pictures (they leave very tiny holes in the walls and are pretty strong, a trick taught to me by my favorite Bernina shop).

– found on eBay Reviews & Guides

Cowboy Quilt

2009-03-19T10:11:00.006-07:00

I started a Face Book , wow is that fun, I have already found so many friends, but have been spending way too much time with that so I had to not allow myself any face book until I finished one quilt. Here it is, I found some blue binding already made up in my blue scraps bag, I even labeled this one. Now I can change my UFO list (happy me) but the trick will be to take more off than I add. 30"X35"

Knock Knock

2009-03-17T08:48:00.003-07:00

You: Who's there
Me: Irish
You: Irish Who?

Me: Irish you a happy St. Patrick's Day!

Tools I don't want to be caught without!

2009-03-16T14:55:00.003-07:00

This is my Tool turn-about. I was a pampered chef dealer so I have 3 of these, two for the kitchen and one for my sewing room. It spins on it's base. Very handy. I'm telling you about this because I found some white ones on the pampered chef outlet page here for half price. It comes with some bag clips and the old pizza cutter. I can still put in orders for a discount but I get nothing for the outlet store so if you want it go directly to pamperedchef.com. It really is nice to have, I wish I could spare 14$ now I'd get me another one.

Look what I found!!

2009-03-16T07:55:00.005-07:00

This is a great tutorial to make these cute Easter Bunnies. I just had to make one and most likely a few more. She uses old sweaters, good idea, but I have quite a lot of scrap flannel around so that is what I used.Edited: I thought I'd add a little tip to go with this. If you draw the shape on a thin paper, sew on the line and then trim to the size you want it turns much easier under the presser foot. Be sure to use a small stitch so ripping the paper off is easy.

Best cookies ever...

2009-03-14T16:36:00.014-07:00

Chocolate-Oat Cookies

1 1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup butter

cream together then add:

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

2 tbl milk

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

mix well then add:

1 3/4 cups flour

2 1/2 cups oats

mix well then add:

2 cups chocolate chips

1 cups nuts (optional)

I make them small and bake them on 375 for 9 min. or until slightly browned.

Good morning

2009-03-13T07:39:00.004-07:00

Well I was bored and have no money to get new fabric to play with. So I dumped out my blue scrap bag and started sewing any strip I found together. Then I took my 6 1/2" square and cut where ever I could find enough space for the square. Then I sewed the left overs together and repeated the cutting. I think I like it! This is fun! But now should I sash it with red or gold or do I just butt them up together? I need a lot more!

Today I think I'll start a UFO list so when I get bored I will not start a new project but pick up an old one to work on, do you think it will work?

Cowboys

2009-03-12T15:26:00.007-07:00

This is a small quilt I put together with scraps. I love the little cowboys, the same as the potholders a few posts back. The background fabric (one piece) is some that was given to me (I would never buy this) years ago, it's not flannel but it has almost the same feel. This quilt will only be 30x36 when it is all bound. I don't machine quilt very often because I don't have a walking foot or an open foot but every once in a while I have to try it, I am always reminded that I suck at it. This was no exception..

For my local friends

2009-03-12T07:46:00.004-07:00

I'm having a hard time attaching this to an email so here it is...I couldn't get it to post as it is so this is a photo of it, sorry.

Calling all quilters

2009-03-10T06:47:00.007-07:00

Check this out and please help...30 min. of your time and a little scrap fabric could make a big difference in a little girls life.

I did it!!

2009-03-09T15:16:00.003-07:00

Today my machine started making a really loud clunking noise and the feed dogs wouldn't move all of the way up. I am way too poor right now to have it serviced so I thought I could at least see why the feed dogs were sticking. I unplugged the machine, got out the screwdriver and opened the thing up. Wow, did it need to be cleaned. It has probably been two years and I really use my machine a lot. I found a bottle brush and a tooth brush and started cleaning it out I oiled the gears and wiped it all down. Then I sewed for about 30 seconds on a scrap cloth and it was like sewing with a new machine. I really need to take better care of my baby, it was so easy for the results. I may never take it in again for a well machine check.

top done

2009-03-08T22:09:00.002-07:00

This is what I came up with thanks to the suggestions of my bloggy friends. I did add some sashing to two blocks just to make it all fit, not ideal but I didn't have any of the background fabric lift and I like the idea of not sashing between the blocks. While I was putting it together I realized that I had hand pieced these blocks, what a mess. They should look ok when I quilt it (I hope). It is fun to see how much I have learned over the years. Wow, if I progress this much in the next 7 or 8 years as I did in the last I will be perfect at quilting.

More Sand

2009-03-07T13:47:00.002-08:00

My parents took a trip to Arizona to soak in some sun and find some gold. They did all of that and brought me back some sand. So this is from Stanton AZ out of a dry bed. They also came back with 3 good sized gold nuggets but I couldn't talk them out of those. My dad does a lot of gold panning but this time my mom found the gold with a metal detector.

Spring is in the air.

2009-03-07T09:41:00.002-08:00

I have these blocks, I made years ago just sitting there wanted to be used. They are really bad work. I pieced them when I first started this insane hobby, and it shows. So I wonder if it would be better just to remake them or try to use what I have. Once it is quilted can you really tell. I like the layout and the fabrics are so wonderful. Hmmm....I do want to use some of my orphan blocks this year but these are going to take a lot of effort to make them work.

Give a Way.

2009-03-02T06:16:00.002-08:00

Go here for sweet-and-swanky-giveaway.

Donation

2009-03-01T16:51:00.002-08:00

Quilt Mama is looking for donations for a fund raiser for her daughters. She is giving away a beautiful quilt to one lucky person, check it out. This is my donation, I made it just for her all from scraps and through in a chili recipe to hopefully bring up the price. Good luck girls.

I used this main fabric years ago to make a camp shirt.

Help Please...

2009-03-01T08:18:00.002-08:00

I have put the binding on the blue one twice and ripped it off both times. I can't get it on smooth even cutting in on the bias. I really need some suggestions.

Spring School Bag

2009-02-28T15:52:00.004-08:00

I loved the fabric I got for Mary so much that I had to get some for me. Here is a new school bag for Sammy. If she doesn't like it I would love to keep it. I wish I would have bought more canvas for another one. Oh well.

I ironed the bird on and left the edges raw with a row of machine stitching around each piece. the tail and legs are machine stitched.

Wouldn't this fabric look cute as a skirt for a little girl and the bird put on a tee shirt? I WANT GRAND KIDS!! ok, I can wait until mine are a little older, but if I don't have any in 5 years I'm going to start dressing up the dog!

Poke-a-dot club winner!

2009-02-27T17:18:00.008-08:00

We have 4 participants this month for our club. 1 out of 4 chance to win! WOW. Yvette with Nearly Insane Block 38, Mary with this beautiful wall hanging, Heather with her little baby ball and Jean with this cute purse and shirt to match! Thanks ladies, I love them all.

And the winner is Mary!!! Yea you!!! Get me your address and I'll get your wonderful prize in the mail as soon as I can.

And now, on a nothing to do with quilting note, I have planted 100's of bulbs (no kidding) in my yard and each year I never get more than 1 to 3 that grow. This last year I decided to try daffodils and look what is growing!!! I'm so excited, spring is on the way to Washington state and even my yard.

Another one bites the dust!

2009-02-27T11:10:00.004-08:00

I really don't like this, I thought if I washed it I'd like it better or maybe taking the picture outside, but no. I don't usually wash my wall hanging. The color is a little better in person. I do love the boarder though.

This is the last call for the poke-a-dot club, I'll be drawing tonight. Good luck.

Ready for quilting.

2009-02-23T16:59:00.003-08:00

I have never taken more seams out (back sewed) than on any project in my life! First I did all the shamrock leaves wrong so I had to re make them, then I forgot the sashing so I had to take the first boarder off and pick the shamrocks apart. And that boarder, what a pain in the butt. I will be doing the boarder on another quilt just to get it right. I thought for sure this would look bad when it was all put together, but I think I like it. Hopefully I'll get it quilted in the next few days and have it up by the 1st. Thanks Kim for the great tutorial.

I think that I have made more projects since I have started blogging than ever before, because of all of the wonderful ideas I see each day. I want to say thank you to all of you who post your beautiful work to inspire blog land.

Shamrocks

2009-02-23T16:51:00.003-08:00

Kim has a tutorial for a cute St. Patrick's day quilt I had to try. I got the blocks done today and hope to have it finished by the big day.

That is also my Dad's birthday, so we usually have him and my mom over for a traditional Irish dinner of corned beef and cabbage and a nice quite evening. Really just another excuse to make and eat dessert. What traditions do you do if any for that day?

I've made a decision?

2009-02-22T08:01:00.005-08:00

I think I have decided to use this quilt as inspiration to finish these blocks from the 2006 Western Washington shop hop. If you want to see the post go here. I love the colors so I still have them on the design wall in my sewing room. Maybe that's the way to finish those ufo's, just don't put them away.

The perfect fabric

2009-02-21T13:38:00.006-08:00

This fabric just seems to be screaming, "MAKE UP BAG!" So this is for my daughter. I quilted the fabric using the stripes on the inside fabric, the same as the strap. What a great way to machine quilt for those of us that don't have a free motion foot. If it is too small for her, I'll keep it for me.

I spent some time looking through some of my favorite blogs and came accross this beautiful quilt from her local quilt show on Giraffe Dreams blog. I have to make one like it, but just a little different.

Beautiful Day

2009-02-20T06:46:00.001-08:00

I forgot to post this house. I'm sure your tired of seeing all my wonky houses but I'm still having fun. See the quilt in the window?

It is so beautiful here today (in the real world and the wonky one) that my pooch and I had to take a hike, before I realized it we had been hiking almost 2 hours. Soon it will be raining for about a month straight so I have to go when I can. Boy, is he pooped (me too). Have a great day!

Look what I won

2009-02-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

Christine held a drawing for this beautiful piece and lucky me, I won. Her work is so wonderful and now that I can look close at something done so perfect I know how much practice I need. It is nice to see this up close because I was never really taught how to do it so now I can see what I am doing wrong. What should I do with it?

Also I made one more house, not thrilled with it but it was way to much work to redo. I may redo the ark and dry dock it so it will work with this quilt. I'm really having fun with this now.

Wonky tree house and more.

2009-02-19T09:47:00.005-08:00

I know the ark doesn't really work but I wanted to make one anyway. The tree house was a pain in the booty but I think every neighborhood should have one.

One more house

2009-02-18T10:50:00.004-08:00

I had my daughter look at these and told her what a hard time I was having with them and she said,"that's because you like everything perfect". How well does she know me. I am loosening up a bit and they are starting to get fun. I think I'll make them for a boarder and put log cabin blocks in the middle (today anyway, that could change tomorrow). See how I roll with it...

Learning something new.

2009-02-18T09:05:00.004-08:00

Wonky houses are all over quilt blog land so I had to try it. NOT MY STRENGTH. I'm not sure what I lack to let me make these. I thought they would be a freeing project and just flow out of me, not so, there sort of stress full. You wouldn't know it by looking at my house but I'm sort of a perfectionist, I like patterns even if I draw them. I'm up for tips...please.
This is a pattern I drew yesterday for a pieced angle (except the face), I haven't made it yet but I was thinking it would be a fun signature block to swap if I have any interest. Maybe 12 people, I don't know how to make a file like people do to download it so I would have to mail it.

GIVE AWAY!

2009-02-16T19:16:00.002-08:00

Lynn is hosting a great give away, check it out.

My crazy collection.

2009-02-13T07:49:00.012-08:00

Quite a few years ago I took a trip with my family to Mexico. The sand on the beaches we visited was all so different that I had to take some home...well that grew into a passion and people started sending me sand from all over. I didn't realize I had so much until I started taking pictures of it. So I thought I'd share...

This is the one that started it all in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico at the resort we stayed at.

On that same trip we went to a village called Yulapa, here is the sand from there.

Riviera Maya, Yucatan, Mexico I'm not sure where this came from
These next 5 are all from the west coast of the United States, it is amazing to me that they can all look so different. The Washington beaches are really close together.

San Diego, California from one of my daycare children named Maria.
Oregon Sand Dunes, from one of my daughters friends named Kyla.

Cannon Beach, Oregon from my daughter on a weekend trip
This is from West Port in Washington State from another family trip

Ocean Shores, Washington from a family weekend camping trip.

New Mexico White Sands National Monument, I think this came from a friends, Cathy Mauia, brother.

Maui Hawaii near Hana, and another one from Kathy's brother.

This says Malta on the package, I think it is in Italy, it is from a friends, Michelle Schick, step father

Lake Eerie, Michigan and I'm not sure who gave it to me.

Cromer Norfolk, England from Michelle's step father again.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes in Utah I think from Kathy's brother.

Bear Lake, Idaho from Kathy's brother
My spelling is horrible, feel free to correct me. I wish I had collected it all, some day I'll travel to wonderful places around the world.

Something old.

2009-02-13T07:49:00.002-08:00

This is something I started about 2 or 3 years ago and I thought I'd try to finish it this spring. I need to make 4 of these blocks to make one wall hanging. It is all needle turn so it takes a little longer than the usual applique. But I think it is really pretty. It is my own design that I got the idea from an antique quilt book.

Tea Pot

2009-02-11T10:55:00.005-08:00

Here is the tea pot (and the pattern for those who want it) to go with the tea cups. I've made two of these for the two upper corners of the quilt. If I were to do it again I would put the lid on separately (and I may change that still) not machine sew them together before appliqueing it down. I'm thinking I need to put this away and work on something else for a while. I want to applique the title between the tea pots and then around the edges put pieced words of the things I love in this quilt.....I don't know.....I'll think about it later.

I may just toss these and start over, I really don't like them today.

What to do?

2009-02-10T08:27:00.002-08:00

I have had this great fabric for years just waiting for the perfect project for it. I only have 1/2 yard and the motifs are only about 3" tall. I'm hoping someone will give me the perfect suggestion. What say you?

Patients-the word of the day

2009-02-08T20:29:00.003-08:00

patients-the ability to wait or perservere without losing heart or becoming bored.

Patients is something that I don't come by naturally. People think that as a daycare operator that I have oodles of this, but it is something that I work on almost daily. And as quilt makers it would appear that we have way more than most, but I think that a lot of us know that quilting does not equal patients. I try to remind myself at the start of every project that this is not meant to be a marathon, but a pleasure (or) Slow down and enjoy the process (or) It's a hobby, not a job. Can you think of any more? Well on this project, I think I'm doing it. Look at these corners,
they all look that way. Now if I could just keep it slow until it is done. Deep breath, I don't want to loose this groove. I usually do fine taking my time on the blocks but when I get them done I'm so excited to get the quilt done that I rush the assembly of the quilt and boarders and binding. Forget about the tag, I want to use it or give it to the lucky recipient. Why is this, I raised my kids and was told that when they were raised I would have the patients of a grandparent. I'm waiting, where is it, come on hurry up!! Do I have to have grand kids first?

Saturday Sewing

2009-02-08T08:13:00.005-08:00

A little market bag to replace the one from Fred Meyer that ripped. I used the hard bottom out of the FM bag for this one and I added a pocked for my wallet and hand me down fabric. Now I will try to keep my wallet and the other market bags in this one so I remember to take the bags when I run to the shopping. Some stores in Washington give a discount if you bring your own bags. I think I'll make a quilted one for insalation for the frozen foods. Don't forget to post your poke-a-dots.

My tea cups are done.

2009-02-07T06:57:00.006-08:00

All of the blocks are done but it is not quite big enough for me so I think I'll make it a bit longer by adding two tea pots to the top with the title, "For the love of...". I think a fat tea pot like Mrs. Pots from Beauty and the Beast, what do you think? I signed on the stacked cups in the bottom right corner. Don't forget to post your poke-a-dots per the previous post.

A couple of people have emailed me for my cup patterns, so here they are. I think you can click on it and then just print. They are just quick drawings that I adjust larger or smaller or taller or shorter when I cut. Hope it works but if now let me know and I'll email it to you individually.

Poke-a-dots

2009-02-06T13:50:00.004-08:00

A couple of years ago my husband and I were planning on opening a quilt shop. We soon learned, because I wanted it close to home, that to make any money we would have to own the property. So that was out, and with the economy the way it is now I'm glad we didn't go through with it.

Well one of the things I wanted to have was a poke-a-dot club, so I think that I will try it here. This isn't quite what I was planning but we'll try this. Post something in poke-a-dots on your blog, it could be made by you, a friend or even be store bought I don't care what it is as long as it has the dots. State that it is for Patches poke-a-dot club and link it back to this post by the last day of each month. Be sure to send me an email with Poke-A-Dot Club in the subject line. At the end of the month I will randomly draw a name from all of the participants and they will receive 3 poke-a-dot fats and a little surprise in poke-a-dots of course. You can only post something for this once and then you have to find something new and you can only win once in 12 months. Drawings will be the first day of the next month. I can't wait to see what you have to show.

I WON!!!

2009-02-05T08:19:00.004-08:00

Thankyou to Jean for the beautiful fabric that I won from her blog. I loved it so much that I had to use it that second! So TA-DA another cute tea cup for MY quilt. I now have 16 of 24 done, they are going sort of slow because I'm hand appliqueing them. But isn't this fabric perfect?

North West Quilt Show

2009-02-04T06:39:00.002-08:00

Looks like a great show is coming to my area, look here. If anyone wants to join me for the day let me know. The picture has nothing to do with it I just hate posting without one.

sneek peek

2009-02-03T14:48:00.003-08:00

I have a tradition of making Superbowl Sunday grub for my family, wrapping it up and kicking them out the door to go to there varies parties. Yes, I get the house to myself for almost 4 hours. I always have big plans to clean or create but this time I grabbed a quilt and pillow and laid down on the couch to watch the game. I slept up until the 100 yard play (what a play) and then watched while I started this quilt. I really didn't get much done because the game was to engaging. All of the log cabin blocks are done and 3 of the tea cups are done so that is 28 blocks done out of 49. I think I'm going to call it "For the Love of..." (pink and red, tea, quilting, log cabin blocks, piece and quite and of course Superbowl Sunday)

V-day pillow

2009-01-29T08:37:00.002-08:00

I know this is not my best work. I do like my drawing just not the way I made the block. I should have put red on two sides and pink on the other two so it looked more balanced. I'm just happy to have 2 valentine decorations now. I'm trying to save a little money so for the filling I cut up a long bed pillow that is not used anymore and cut the fill to size. I can't believe I never thought of this before, it worked great and saved the pillow from the land fill.

Help me spread the love...

2009-01-28T08:12:00.009-08:00

Jared, my baby boy, leaves for Iraq on Sunday February 1st. I would like to ask for your help. On the side bar I have had for some time a button that you could write to the troops. If you haven't already or even if you have, please send a note to our boys and girls who are putting there lives on hold and in harms way so we (the people they love) can live a life of freedom and peace. I am so proud of Jared and all of the others who have chosen to serve and sacrifice for me, how can we thank them for all that they do?

When you send your letter leave me a comment, I'd like to see if we can get to 100 letters off before the end of February. Feel free to leave a link to this on your blog, it could only help the cause. Thank you, from all the moms and dads and wives and husbands and sons and daughters and all of the others who have solders who are now or have or will serve.

Valentine quilt

2009-01-27T14:30:00.005-08:00

My first valentine craft...

It is about 31x30 inches, machine pieced, hand appliqued and quilted around the hearts and blocks and then 6 hearts an the inner corners of each block. All scraps except the boarder and backing.
We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.
Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Call for help...

2009-01-24T19:18:00.002-08:00

This is something I made for my mother-in-law many years ago. It really is white, I think the flash messed up the color. It is a wood angle with the months on it and under each month is a heart for each of her family under there birth month. I'm showing this because I'd like to make one of a row boat with fish hanging under it and I'd like to know if anyone has a scroll saw or knows someone how would like to cut it for me. I would send the pattern I would like to use and give you plenty of time. Thank you in advance.

I think I have gone Betty Boop crazy

2009-01-23T15:58:00.007-08:00

I am having so much fun with this fabric that I went a little crazy.

Two potholders for me this time.

And I can never keep track of my pin cushions, yesterday I lost another one (I found it this morning) so I thought I'd make a really bright one that would be hard to miss. I don't do a lot with pink so when I'm done with this craze I'm hoping it will stick out among my mess of a work room. The bag is for our Harley to hold the insurance, registration and my husbands glasses so they won't rattle around in the saddle bag. And now for the last BB project for now. This is sort of from a suggertion from my sister, she must know what a scatter brain I am. I think she used elastic but I had some sticky back velcro on hand. It is very handy, I already wonder how I got along without it and I just made it this morning.

I would like to thank Nanette for her great inspiration of fun ideas.

If you haven't been to her blog you must check it out. And if I knew how to make those awards I would give her one for this months most inspirational bloggie (I'll have to work on that).

Fire Truck quilt

2009-01-22T13:27:00.005-08:00

Something more for my Etsy store to the left. I bought the cream fabric in Roseburg Oregon and my sister gave me the blue the rest I had from other quilts already done. Hard to believe there is not a fire fighter in my family or to my knowledge there never has been. I think I have made 5 or 6 firefighter quilts.

All you wast coasters come see Alex and Ricky with us!

Betty Boop

2009-01-22T11:46:00.004-08:00

More potholders. These are for my little sister at(Quilt Mama). I made them a little smaller 9.5x8. I think it will be a more usable size. I like them so much now I need to make some like them for me.

Potholder and Pillowcase

2009-01-21T09:50:00.005-08:00

I had so mush fun making those yesterday that when I remembered this fabric I had to make another, I think I'll do some for Valentines day too. I just saw I forgot to put his wind, I'll fix it and repost.
This pillowcase is posted for a friend. I made it a few years ago from a pattern that was going around for Samantha. I can't find the pattern any more but I don't think I'd need it to make another. I love that there are no exposed seams because of the way it is made and I use french seams on the sides and bottom.

Potholders

2009-01-20T20:21:00.003-08:00

I was feeling a bit patriotic today even though my guy wasn't the winner I love the process and the fact that we as a country get to choose who out leader is. These are what I did today they are from fredashive. I did add a pocket to the back just because I like my potholders that way. I think I'll make another set cause they are sort of quick and fun to make.

Another dress

2009-01-19T11:15:00.003-08:00

Ebay is not working so I took all of your wonderful advice and opened an Etsy shop. We'll see how that goes, you can visit it here. Thank you all for the support, I feel like I have so many wonderful friends (I call you all my bloggies).

Little Dress

2009-01-14T16:18:00.002-08:00

I decided to make some dresses to sell on ebay. This is the first one. If they don't sell I have plenty of neices to give them to.

It takes 6 commited quilters

2009-01-09T14:45:00.003-08:00

This is something I have wanted to do for long time and I need 5 other people to make it work. Read through and If you want to join me leave a comment and I'll get your information later. I want to make February the first month. I have seen lots of these made just never participated in one. They are all so beautiful because of so many creative minds working together.

Mystery Row Quilt Instructions

A swap quilt involves a firm commitment for the duration of the swap. It is meant to encourage quilters of different skill levels to stretch their creativity and utilize their many talents. If you cannot follow the rules or meet the deadlines, then it is best to do not join in. It makes it harder on the other members of the group if they are having to wait on one person to complete their blocks all the time.

THEME: You will decide on a theme for your quilt (ex: all purple, stars, gardening, Christmas, etc) and the colours you wish to use. The other swappers will decide on the blocks to use, a fun surprise at the end! You will not know what has been made until you get your quilt package back from the last swapper on the list.

FABRICS: You will make your first row of blocks using your colours and/or theme fabric. Remember, you are not supplying the other swappers with ALL the fabric to use, only enough to ensure that the rows will tie together. If you want your quilt to be scrappy, you will not be supplying as much fabric as someone who wants their background and theme fabric to be in every row. If you are using a generic colour background such as solid black, white on white, etc. or a theme colour such as "any purple", then, this would also apply. If you wish the swappers to use a specific background fabric, you will need 2-3 yards of this particular fabric. If you wish the swappers to use a specific theme fabric(s), you will need an additional 2 yards of this fabric to send on. You can leave the fabrics in one piece and let the swappers use it as they wish, or you may divide the fabrics into fat quarters or half yards and put them in plastic baggies with each swapper’s name on it so everyone gets to use the same amount. Please remember to use 100% quality cotton fabric, pre-washed, pressed and tested to ensure it is colorfast.

ROWS: We will make rows for a lap-sized quilt that is 45" wide. Any row of any quilt may be 6 to 9 inches in height and MUST be 45 inches wide. Do NOT attach your row to the previous row. Place your row in the bag with the other rows and the rest of the fabric and pass it on to the next name on the list. This allows the owner a little more freedom to decide what order they want the rows in and to add any additional sashing, rows or borders.

BLOCK PATTERN & SIZE: You will decide each month which block pattern would be best for the quilt as it comes to you. All blocks in a row do not have to be the same pattern or even the same size. Blocks don’t have to be square. Use the background fabric to stretch your rows to the required size by adding to the ends or by placing strips between the blocks as needed to ensure that row meets a consistent height (8 to 10") and the 45" width. Do not repeat blocks used in a previous row for that quilt. The idea is to use your creativity and this is all part of the challenge. Be sure to use whole blocks, no half blocks. Keep with the theme of the quilt using your own fabric and any fabrics that may have been included. Traditional piecing, paper piecing, or finished applique (not just un-sewn Wonder Under) will all work as long as the blocks stick with the theme.

The "rules" are:

Use only 100% quality cotton fabrics nothing with a loose weave and no cotton polyester blends. Pre-wash and iron every fabric. Test each fabric to ensure colorfastness.Treat each quilt with respect, keeping it in a clean, dry and safe place.Keep away from direct sunlight, pets and tobacco smoke.
You will always pass the quilt to the next person on the list following your name.The last person always sends to the first person on the list.
Please be sure you can commit to completing the entire robin, and keep the lines of communication open. Other people are depending on you. If you will be late with a row, please let the hostess know so this information can be passed on. And please remember the GOLDEN RULE OF QUILTING: work on another’s quilt like you would your own (or better)!
Ideally, there are 6 swappers to a group. So a dead line to pass the quilt on to the next person in line would be the last mailing day of the month.
Running for 6 months means 6 rows so the quilt will be 45"x48"-60".

A little present for my sister

2009-01-09T05:27:00.004-08:00

I tried the coolest thing. I found a quote I liked and then printed it up. Then I took the paper and drew some flowers I liked on it and put it in the copy machine. I found some fabric I liked for this and ironed it to wax paper. I cut the paper and fabric into a 11x8.5 sheet and put it in the paper tray of the copy machine and printed. I have heard thet you can do this but had never tried it until now. Very cool.with that I embroidered the design. I'm not sure if it will wash out or not so I went over it all. I'd like to print up my labels, so if you have tried this let me know if it washes out please.
Anyway, I put that on a bag I made for her.
I hope you like it Patty, I'll pop it in the mail Saturday.

First quilt of the new year.

2009-01-06T14:59:00.004-08:00

About 4 years ago I decided that the first quilt of each new year should be all (except the batting) from scraps. Well, for the fourth year in a row I have done it. My son Dillon asked for a new quilt first this year so he got the scrap quilt. Even the back is a sheet that I had in the thrift store bag. I like it, my daughter HATES it. And yes I didn't calculate right and ran out the the blue sashing, I think I hid it ok (lol).

I tried to make the binding wider, it didn't work out for the corners, but I think I learned how for next time-if I remember.

Not to be out done

2009-01-06T09:51:00.003-08:00

My son told me of a client of his who had the coolest bisiness card for her quilting business. So I had to come up with something better that just a card, so here it is...
It is like a match book that has a handy gift on a colorful piece of felt when you open it up. They do take some work to make, so I won't just give them to just anyone.

My adventures in canning-chapter 1

2009-01-03T13:39:00.006-08:00

I have set a goal this year to can something once a month, sounds easy, well not for me. I have never done this before with a pressure cooker, so it is all new to me. But I really love to learn new things so here I go...

The first thing I chose to do is Chili. So I borrowed a pressure cooker form my mother and looked up instructions on the web and thought I was off running. I needed more jars and the thing you use to lift them out of the PC so I headed to Fred Meyer, they didn't have them so I headed to Wall Mart, sorry wrong season. I was not going to be stopped, I made a smaller batch and found the best non-canning tongs I could.

Here is the recipe I used (it's great):

2 or 3 yellow onions
8 cloves of garlic pressed
olive oil for sauteing onions and garlic
4 lbs ground beef
4-8 Tbsp chili powder (to taste)
4 Tbsp fresh chopped parsley
4 tsp of salt
4 cans of tomatoes (14 oz)
4 cooked and canned Jalapeno pepper
4 Tbsp sugar

Saute' onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent on med heat set aside. Brown ground beef adding chili powder to taste. When beef is no longer pink add onions and garlic. Drain liquid (high fat foods don't keep as well canned) and add all other ingredients. Simmer about 10 min while you prepare the jars and the PC.

If you are wondering where the beans are, they make it tricky to seal so we add them at serving time. I have learned so much today!!!

Chile Con Carne.
Surly this will fill 8 jars, right? No way, I need to think much bigger!

Now the canning part: first I fill the hot jars with hot chili and wipe the tops with a wet paper towel so it is perfectly clean.

Next I put them in the cooker that has about 3 inches of water simmering in the bottom. Put the lid on and wait for steam to start sputtering out.

When I see steam I wait 10 more minutes and then add the weight with one ring to the top. The dial gauge should read 10 pounds.

Now, for my elevation, I set the timer for 90 minutes and wait.

After 90 min. I remove the PC from the heat and wait 10 more min.

Then I remove the weight and wait until the pressure reads 0.

Then I can open the PC and wait 5 min.

Then I can remove the jars to a draft free spot on a towel and wait 24 hours.

Then I get to know if it worked by tapping and hoping for a ringing sound, if I hear a dull thud then just eat them this week.

All that work and I got 4 jars of Chili-is it worth it? I say yes, because I have learned something that not everyone can do, and we all need to do things that make us proud of ourselves. Like when a child jumps up and lands with his feet apart and yells ta-da, well, I can hold up a jar and yell ta-da!! And I'm hoping this will get me going on the boring task of food storage.

TA-DA

Owl pin cushion tutortial

2008-12-23T18:58:00.013-08:00

For the ornament tutorial go to Eileens Attic. But for the pin cushion cut a tear drop shape from two contrasting felt fabrics with pinking shears.

Pin the tip so it stays put when you fold it over.

The round parts will slide a little, you can trim to match now or after you sew.

Sew the round part, and trim if you haven't already.

Fill the round part with rice for weight and on top of the rice put some batting so the rice stays put after you sew.

It is easier to sew this seam by hand, I used floss that matches the back fabric.

Add a small piece of hook and loop tape to one layer of the felt, just the hook part if fine because it sticks to the felt.

Add the beak by satin stitching with the contrasting floss, try to catch both layers without going through the hook and loop tape. The eyes are white felt the size of a 3/4" button and the black is felt the size of a 1/4" button. I used one cross stitch in the middle of the black to secure these.

Christmas Owls

2008-12-23T11:35:00.010-08:00

The first time I saw these on Eileens Attic I knew I wanted to make them, and I knew how I wanted to alter them. I love the little ornaments (mine still needs bells for the feet) but I thought it would make a cute travel pin cushion and needle caddy.The pin cushion has rice in it to make it a little heavier and it is a bit smaller. I used felt for the eyes instead of buttons and it only needed the hook part of the hook and loop tape because it is made of felt. It needs a little tweaking but I think it's a fun little gift. So who wants a pin cushion? The first 10 comments get one in the mail (in a week or 3 or 4) I need the practice to get them perfect.