Winter blues

Tucked away in a Sept. 1983 Country Living magazine was this little gem. I've had the page open for quite awhile and decided to venture on to a new project.

Carefully choosing from my box of 2-1/2" blue squares, I then cut 5" dark muslin squares into setting triangles.

It's important to sew the triangles on in the reverse method, as shown. Then trim evenly along the edge of the blue square chopping off triangle points.

Here's what's been done so far. I'll show the whole top in a few days when it's fully assembled.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

I now know where the phrase "bleeding hearts" comes from.

This little wall hanging is a Mary Ellen Hopkins pattern that I made about 12 years ago. It was found while cleaning up the studio yesterday and I thought, hey why don't I stipple quilt it and call it done. Hah, that's what I get for thinking.

For some reason, 2 of the fabrics used herein are bleeders that I did not initially pre-test. Remember, if a fabric is going to bleed, spray starch will find it. So now I have to take it apart and replace 4 of the hearts. Sigh . . . so much for a speedy finish.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Merry Christmas Everyone

Wishing you and yours a blessed, peaceful holiday.

Weather update?

We reached a low of around 9 degrees here this a.m. There was ice crusted on the "inside" of my kitchen window. Brrr.

I was just wondering what the temps were in your neck of the woods, or beach, or valley, or dale. Please leave a comment with your early morning weather report.

(Photo courtesy of the International Quilt Study Center)

The wonders of technology

Did you know that you can watch quilt-related videos via the Int'l Quilt Study center simply by clicking on the preferred title at Podcast.

I am continually amazed at the wonders the internet brings to us. Wasn't it just a few years ago we would mark our calendars in anticipation of a special guild lecture, show, or book release. Now with the click of a button, these can be viewed on the internet. I can only imagine what will come next.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

(photo compliments of Quilt Study Center)

Baahhhh Humbug

I've picked up a nasty germ known as bronchitis. My Christmas cheer has turned into a Christmas cough so unfortunately, all remaining packages will be late, no cards will be mailed, and all downstairs sewing is certainly on hold.

The good news is it's not essential that I go anywhere. Luckily I can still rest and work at the same time so long as I have juice and cough syrup.

If you have the winter bug, please stay home and rest also.

(photo compliments of the Quilt Study Center)

Chance of snow?

If so, I'll be ready. I hauled in 2 truck loads of wood this weekend. Found a

good deal over in Tennessee so it was worth the drive.

Let the good times roll . . . Christmas carols on the stereo, fabric to choose from, wood to keep fireplace going, chocolate brownies, and a happy dog . . . life doesn't get any better.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

A quick gift for your quiltin' pal.

You may find the heart shaped dish in the floral section of Wal-Mart.

On a piece of paper, trace around the perimeter of the dish and add 1/4". Cut out a plastic template of heart-shaped pattern. (Green template in background was cut from unused x-ray film.) Heavily starch a piece of dress weight goods or red cotton. Cut out 2 heart shapes. Cut a 19" piece of middle gusset 1-3/4" wide. Sew a 3/8" seam to connect the short ends forming a circle.

Sew the eyelit trim to 1 edge of a red heart overlapping at top curve. Pin and sew the gusset on one side by following the sewing line for the trim. Attach the back heart piece to the gusset leaving a 2" opening for stuffing. Be sure to align top and bottom points.

Stuff with sheep's wool or fiberfill. Stitch opening closed. (This is more easily done if the pieces are all well starched.)

Before packing, wrap in plastic bag. Then use scraps of fabric trimmings and batting trimmings to cushion bottom, sides, and top. This always makes for a very colorful package!

If you're running out of time, don't worry, you can make one for Valentine's Day.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

The 5-minute Christmas tree

Open box, insert little lights, plug in . . . done. (I know this is cheating, but there isn't enough room for anything bigger.)

Thought for the day: When washing xmas quilt, hang on a level clothesline or it will dry katywampus and take all of this December to straighten out.

Ahh yes, this red and white has to be one of my all time favorites.

Of course, I just have to show off my BEAUTIFUL table runner that Pam made for me last year in our Christmas swap. My sleigh finally came out of the box also. I don't think I've seen it since 1999. It was purchased at a craft fair in Georgia many years ago and is one of my favorite pieces.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Annual Fireside Sale at J.C. Campbell Folk School

This morning, my neighbor and I headed out to visit a few friends at the Fireside Sale. This is held every year at the J.C. Campbell Folk School. Local artisans from the area display and sell their beautiful creations.

My good buddy Suzy teaches at the local college, but also creates incredible water colors. This photo does not begin to display how lovely her paintings are. To see more of her work in much better lighting please visit ArtBySuzy.

This grinning gal is Katrina, a metal smith who works primarily in copper. In the background you can see her wonderful moose pins. She also does great fish and other whimsical creatures.

Chuck and Peggy are long time residents of the area. Each of these baskets is made by starting with a tree. They are indeed beautiful and extremely labor intensive. Chuck is also a bladesmith and makes damascus steel knives.

As you can see, Lee and Doug of Birdfoot Ridge Studio are potters. It would take an entire page to describe their lovely work. You can contact them at birdfootridge@wmconnect.com

This smiling trio includes Elmer, Lynda, and Joel, blacksmiths who forge hot metal into phenomenal patterns and make it look easy. Their designs rival anything I saw in Europe. Besides the hand forged tools, they also do such things as custom gates and fencing. Unless you've ever wielded a hammer over a hot flame, you cannot imagine the work that goes in to these pieces. I'm always amazed at what they create.

If you are interested in learning more about the work shown above and need to contact any of the artisans, feel free to e-mail me.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

The Lay's potato chips of quilting

. . . nobody can make just one.

No, it wasn't a cyclone . . . . Mile-A-Minute blocks have taken over. Everywhere.


I did manage to get my longer strips out of bags and in to a bin. These will be for my next string quilt. Ahhh progress. (sort of)

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

An ounce of prevention . . .

. . . is worth a pound of cure.

Back in the days when I typed ER reports, winter often produced a list of casualties. A small patch of ice on the porch or driveway and a newspaper waiting to be retrieved could be a lethal combination, especially for those over 70.

If you keep a small box of rock salt handy and sprinkle just a bit on your steps, porch, or driveway, you may save yourself a trip to the doctor. And if you have an elderly neighbor, why not buy one for them also. For under $2.00, it's an easy gift to give.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Waiting patiently . . .

. . . in the back of your stash bin is a pre-printed "oh so cute at the time" vest panel. Everyone was wearing them . . . . then. You were probably going to make it for your sister, or cousin, or daughter, or friend . . . right?

It's time to cut it up and use it in a quilt back. Or not cut it up and use it in a quilt back. See if you can guess how many squares had a former life as a vest panel.

I keeping trying to think outside the box, as I listen to the mantra "use it up, move it out, get it done, yeee hah!"

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

4-Day Soup

Day 1: Bake 10 to 12 pound ham.

Rinse ham, place in foil lined baking pan, pour over 3-4 cups of apple juice or apple cider. Mix a paste of mustard and brown sugar to coat ham. Bring foil up from sides and seal tightly all around, leaving room so foil does not touch ham. You want the apple cider to steam around the ham. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes per pound.

Remove ham from bone in sections. Place meaty bone in crock pot, cover with water. Cook on low overnight. Meanwhile place beans (18 varieties in 1 bag found at Wal-Mart for $1.18) in mixing bowl and add 6-8 cups of water. Soak beans overnight.

Day 2: Strain bone and broth into large bowl. Let cool. Place in fridge.

Drain beans, place in clean crock pot and fill with water. Cook beans on low overnight.

Day 3: Peel and dice 2 onions, 1/2 small cabbage, 8 carrots, 8 medium potatoes, 6 stalks celery.

Line sink with newspaper for easy cleanup.

Brown onions in 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until translucent. Add celery. Cook until soft.

Stir in 2 to 3 - 14 ounce cans of diced tomatoes.

Add cooked beans, bean broth, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes. Blend well, add a pinch of baking soda to decrease acidity of tomatoes.

Skim fat from ham broth, pour remaining broth into pot. Simmer about 1 hour. Let cool. Carrots and potatoes will be partially cooked.

Fill clean crock pot with soup. Leave room for 2 cups of ham. Put remaining portions of soup in large containers for the freezer.

Remove fat from ham with a fine sharp knife. This takes some work and has to be done in sections throughout the ham, not by slicing it, but by trimming fat from each portion.

Dice ham for each container of soup, about 2 cups per container.

Let crock pot cook on low overnight. Carrots and potatoes will finish cooking and flavors will blend nicely.

If you place the remaining soup in larger containers, it will be ready for the next crock pot meal freeing up more time for quilting.

The remainder of the ham can be diced and frozen for quiche, pizza topping, casseroles, etc.

From 1 ham and a few vegetables, I'll have enough for at least 30 meals, unless of course, like Joan, I invite the neighborhood for dinner.

Total cost between $20.00 and $25.00. How's that for budget stretching!

Note: My soup pot holds about 3 gallons. If you have a smaller pot, adjust portions accordingly.

Happy Thanksgiving

Wishing you and yours a very happy turkey and gravy holiday. Please drive safely, fly safely, and remember to give a veteran a big hug in gratitude. Without them, we wouldn't be celebrating.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Sunlight and shadow

Sometimes it's just plain tricky getting a good photo of so many colors.

So I moved it to the shady side of the line.

And here's a bit of detail. See that orange calico by the green cricket, that print is from the 1970's. Yes, ok, I have a textile memory. If only I could remember birthdays half as well.

Now I just have to sew the binding down by hand. A nice project while sitting in front of the fire.

Until then, keept stitchin' . . .

Insert clever title here

The borders are on!!!

I don't think it's gotten over 30 degrees here all day. I even heard reports of ice on the roads in neighboring counties. So if you're out driving in this wintry weather, remember to bundle up, wear proper shoes, and drive safely. Bonnie Girl and I will be staying inside finishing the next kitchen sink.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Zig-zaggin

I was right, the baptist fan pattern is difficult to do on a regular sewing machine. Still, I like the way it turned out even though it took me longer than usual.

Now, I'm taking a vote. How many of you believe the binding should be a nice warm red?

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Ahhh shucks

Kim has nominated me for a new award. Wasn't that thoughtful! Thank you Kim.

Caring for your sewing machine.

Such factors as how much you sew, where you sew, what type of thread and fabric you use will determine how often you must clean your sewing machine. Don't rely on those cans of air. All they do is blow the dust around. For a good cleaning, get out your Q-Tips. Remove the presser foot, needle, faceplate, bobbin, and bobbin casing. Oh yes, unplug it first. No accidents allowed.

Remove any dust bunnies that may be lurking about especially in the feed dogs. Use a straight pin or a small flat head screwdriver to get in between the "dogs".

Oiling is just as important as cleaning, but remember 1 drop will do better than 2.

Check your instruction manual on which areas to oil. There may be some that you're supposed to leave alone. Rotate the wheel by hand and see which parts move. My theory is, "if it's metal and it moves - oil it." If it's rubber or plastic leave it alone.

Don't forget to clean out the bobbin casing before replacing it. They get very dusty on the inside.

Cleaning and oiling improves the efficiency of your sewing machine. By working with lint free thread such as Essential thread from Connecting Threads, you'll see a drastic reduction in dust in your machine. If you sew in a humid environment, remember to oil often to prevent rust.

After cleaning and oiling, wipe down the table top and machine with a paper towel. Re-assemble all parts and place a paper towel under the presser foot. Let it sit overnight. Any excess oil will drain on to the towel. Wipe down the area again before sewing.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

What a wonderful surprise

Blogging pal Pam sent me the most wonderful box full of goodies. She made me these 2 lovely bags. Aren't they gorgeous!

Also included were some items from her recent travels, a scrumptious maple hot cocoa mix, this wonderful recipe box and of course chocolate. She didn't forget a thing . . . except to put herself in the box so I could give her a big hug for thinking of me. Aren't quilters the best! Thank you sew much Pam.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

This lil' darlin' quilt is done!

. . . well okay, except for the binding. But "quilted is close" right?

I ran out of pins and couldn't finish prepping the kitchen sink. So I had to stop and get this quilted. It sure is nice to work on fresh spring colors on a gloomy gus kinda day.

If you've been wondering where to locate open pins for quilting, check the yellow pages or the web for your nearest dry cleaning supply store. Order them by the 10 gross or 1,444 pins. Be sure to specify "open". I use the same size that come with a dry cleaning tag.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

For this evenings' entertainment . . . .

I'll be pinning a larger kitchen sink using Mountain Mist Blue Ribbon batting (100% cotton). This must be quilted every 2" or less, is rather fragile (lock the cats in the bathroom when laying it out), but shrinks up beautifully. For a true antique look, I highly recommend it.

Julia will be keeping Bonnie Girl and I entertained while pinning. We'll learn how to clarify butter, debone a chicken breast, and even speak a little French. So until next time, Bon Apetite.

Don't raise the bridge . . . .

. . . . lower the river.

This piece of batting (sewn together from 3 sections) came out too small for a previous quilt top. So I went downstairs to the magic bin and pulled out a kitchen sink that needs borders. I'll make the borders just wide enough to accomodate the batting, back it in something from my stash, quilt it, and call it done! (I'm getting ready for some serious done-ness around here.)

From our favorite local library comes this wonderful trilogy that Bonnie Girl and I have been enjoying while I pin. She gets to watch, while I get to listen. See if your library has it, as it's very well done.

And last but not least the promo item for the day - Simply Cotton batting. Mary Jo's has it in at least 3 sizes. My order just arrived today. First the good news . . . full size (81" x 96") is $10.99 and king size (120" x 120") is around $18.00. It is similar to Warm and Natural, can be quilted up to 10", and is needle punched. Here's the big HOWEVER, however, they recommend that it be pre-washed (by hand) due to potential oils in the seed/hull remnants in the batting. You may remember when Warm and Natural had to be treated the same way.

The label also says that if you choose not to pre-wash, they recommend you wash your quilt immediately upon finishing. In other words, get it done speedy quick.

I'll be using this batting in several tops that have darker fabrics and non-white/light backings, things that I simply want to get done. For my good bed quilts, I'll be using Hobbs Organic which is my all time favorite and has very different properties.

If you want to learn more about battings, see if your library has Harriet Hargrave's Heirloom Machine quilting book. You'll find a wealth of info therein.

It's time for me to get those borders on, so until then, keep stitchin' . . .