I love this time of year! Christmas is always such a fast-paced, over the top, joyous time! This year was really exciting for us because this was the first year Hurst really "got it". He talked non-stop about Santa and could always be heard singing Frosty the Snowman, Jingle Bells or the Grinch. We spent our time with lots of family, eating lots of food and opening lots of gifts. Needless to say, a good time was had by all.
But, I'm so glad it's over! I was always a little sad when Christmas was over as a child, but as an adult I look forward to getting back to our routine. The only thing I will truly miss is having my husband home with us. It has been so nice spending so much time with him. I hate to see him go back to work!
I love this week between Christmas and New Year's. I get the chance to clean the house, eliminate some of our clutter and recover from the Christmas chaos. During this time, I've been thinking about what I would like to accomplish in the coming year. I have decided this year to keep it simple as far as my quilting/sewing goals. Last year I had a very long list and while I started most of the list I didn't finish most it. Don't worry I'm not beating myself up about it! Sometimes life gets in the way, and that's okay! That's why this year I'm trying to keep it a little more manageable.
1. I want to tackle my stack of projects that I've started, but haven't finished yet. I have quite a few really beautiful quilts that I started and then put in a box and ignored. Well, this year I want to finish them...well at least work on them. :) I have joined the UFO Challenge at Patchwork Times to help me reach this goal. It really seemed to help other quilters in 2011 so I'm hoping it will do the trick for me this year.
2. I want to continue to eliminate my fabric stash. I still have a ton of fabric from when I first started quilting 15 years ago that I will never use. My plan is to use some of it to make quilts for the Quilting Angels. If all else fails I think I will donate the fabric to the group and others might be able to use it.
The second part to this goal is to grow my stash the right way. Most of my fabric shopping is very impulsive. While that's very fun and it looks pretty on the shelf, it's not very practical. When I decide to work on a new project, I find I have to shop to get everything I need. I really would like to have a stash with enough variety that I can just pull from it and start working.
Next week I'm taking my machine in for it's yearly checkup and while it's there I'd like to spend some time organizing my fabric. I think I'll use this series on color by Jeni to help me. Once I see which colors are lacking I'll SLOWLY fill in the gaps.
I've set the goal of no shopping until I've made good progress on my WIPs. Of course, all bets are off when FMF comes out, but other than that I'm really going to try to stay focused this year!
3. I want to spend more time with my quilting groups. The time I was able to spend with the DC Modern Quilt Guild and the Quilting Angels this year has been so good for me. It got me out of mommy mode, doing something I really love while surrounded by people who have the same passion. Everytime I left a meeting I felt a renewed desire to quilt. Now that things have settled down a bit at home I really think this goal will be easily achieved.
4. I want to blog more often. I have missed my time spent in this little corner of my world! I look forward to making new friends and cultivating the friendships I have already made. I also think writing about my projects will help keep me on task especially with the WIPS.
So there it is! Not too bad! I think I will look back at this list next Christmas and see that I've made some real progress! I am so looking forward to seeing what is going to happen for the Burnett family this year! Graham will be a year old soon, Hurst will start preschool this fall, who knows what will happen to mommy and daddy?? Big things I'm sure!
I wish all of you and your families a very healthy, happy and safe New Year! I look forward to spending a lot of time with you in 2012!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Last Stash Report of 2011
Well I stuck to my guns and didn't buy any fabric this month! I am very proud of myself! Fortunately, I was so busy I really didn't have time to look at fabric sites or go shopping for anything other than Christmas presents. I also didn't have a lot of time to sew either, so my stash busting numbers are still dismal. Oh well, there's always 2012 right?
I'm definitely doing the stash report again next year. While I didn't bust my stash the way I had planned, reporting has been a very eye opening experience! I always knew I bought a lot of fabric, but I had no idea how much! This year was also a very busy one for us as a family especially with our new little guy, and his rough and tumble big brother! Big fun of course, but I have had very little time to sew. I'm hoping now that we are starting to develop more of a schedule as a family, I will find more time to spend in my sewing area! I want 2012 to be the year of using my stash! Of course I'm sure I will find some fabric that I must have, but I would like to try to be a little more thoughtful about my purchases! Here's hoping!
My numbers for 2011:
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added YTD: 137.75
Net Added this year: 103 yards
I'm looking forward to seeing how everyone else does tackling the stash this coming year! If I don't find myself back before the 31st, Happy New Year everyone!
I'm definitely doing the stash report again next year. While I didn't bust my stash the way I had planned, reporting has been a very eye opening experience! I always knew I bought a lot of fabric, but I had no idea how much! This year was also a very busy one for us as a family especially with our new little guy, and his rough and tumble big brother! Big fun of course, but I have had very little time to sew. I'm hoping now that we are starting to develop more of a schedule as a family, I will find more time to spend in my sewing area! I want 2012 to be the year of using my stash! Of course I'm sure I will find some fabric that I must have, but I would like to try to be a little more thoughtful about my purchases! Here's hoping!
My numbers for 2011:
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added YTD: 137.75
Net Added this year: 103 yards
I'm looking forward to seeing how everyone else does tackling the stash this coming year! If I don't find myself back before the 31st, Happy New Year everyone!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
2012 UFO Challenge
I have been doing Judy's Sunday Stash Report this year, and it has been a blast! I have made new blog friends and have seen some incredible stash busting! Unfortunately, I wasn't one of the stash busters. This was a year of stash enhancement for me, ahem, but it was still a lot of fun and I'm definitely playing next year.
I've also decided to join in the fun of Judy's 2012 UFO Challenge. Not only will this help me finish up some of my projects, but maybe it will help the weekly Stash Report too! A girl can dream right?
1. My Halloween Table Runner.
All I have to do is sew on the binding. Why haven't I finished this yet? Ridiculous...
2. Fruitcake Quilt.
I wasn't able to finish this in time for Christmas, so I'm going to try to finish for next year. Hope my son is still fascinated by snowmen next year!
3. Nicey Jane Quilt.
I was making good progress on this one earlier this year, but when I started assembling the rows I realized I wanted it to be bigger. Then I came to a complete standstill. I would love to give it to my wonderful Aunt Kathy next year for either her birthday or Christmas. If I can just get it finished! I blogged about it earlier this year, see a WIP pic here.
4. Flannel Quilt.
This is one of the first quilts I ever started. It's all flannel and it's for the Hubs. He would be thrilled to finally have this one finished especially considering I started making it for him fifteen years ago...
I can't believe we have been together that long and that I still haven't finished the poor guy's quilt!
5. Butterfly Quilt.
I started making this for the MSP Quilting Angels sewing group I joined earlier this year. I really want to finish this one sooner rather than later, so if I can I'll finish this before Judy announces #5. I've made all of the blocks, so I just need to add the sashing, quilt it, and then add the binding. I think I can, I think I can...
6. Kaleidoscope Quilt.
I have to finish this one. I just need to finish quilting and binding it. It is going to be donated, so I need to get the lead out. If I have time after Christmas I will try to work on it. Blogged about it here.
7. Christmas Tree Skirt.
I really wanted to finish this for our tree this year, but it just didn't happen. Next year, next year...
8. My first QOV
I haven't technically started this one yet, but I'm putting it here. I've picked the pattern, pulled the fabrics and it's taking up room in my crammed project box, so I'm counting it! It will be donated through the MSP Quilting Angels group.
9. Postage Stamp Quilt
This was the first ever Quilt Along I joined and then I never finished it. I will be honest and say that when I started it I was so excited, but I lost interest soon after the piecing commenced. Unless I have a complete change of heart I think this one will be donated to the Quilting Angels when it's finished. See progress pics here.
10. Heart Strip Quilt.
I started cutting this out for the 100 Quilts for Kids project this year and then ran out of time. It would be great to have one already made when the next round is announed. Since all I've done so far is cut the strips it's not picture worthy, but check out the tutorial here.
11. Super Nova Quilt
I am so in love with this quilt! The pattern and the fabric equally, but it's for me, so it kept getting pushed to the back of the list. Hopefully 2012 will be the year I get to snuggle with it! All I have to do is quilt it (it's even basted) and bind it. See progress photos here.
12. Dutch Pinwheel Quilt.
I've made a couple of blocks from this tutorial. I'm thinking it will become a QOV that will be donated through my MSP Quilting Angels group.
My goal for this project is not to necessarily finish all of these, but to work on them even it's just for the assigned month. My concern is if I don't have a working list, these projects will be shoved in a closet and forgotten. Of course I do want to finish some of them, I'm just trying to be realistic. Twelve finishes in a year would be a lot for me and that's just my UFOs. Don't get me started on the new projects I want to start...
I can't wait for 2012 to get here, so I can get to work! How about you? Do you have any UFO's creeping around your sewing room? Care to join us?
I've also decided to join in the fun of Judy's 2012 UFO Challenge. Not only will this help me finish up some of my projects, but maybe it will help the weekly Stash Report too! A girl can dream right?
1. My Halloween Table Runner.
All I have to do is sew on the binding. Why haven't I finished this yet? Ridiculous...
2. Fruitcake Quilt.
I wasn't able to finish this in time for Christmas, so I'm going to try to finish for next year. Hope my son is still fascinated by snowmen next year!
3. Nicey Jane Quilt.
I was making good progress on this one earlier this year, but when I started assembling the rows I realized I wanted it to be bigger. Then I came to a complete standstill. I would love to give it to my wonderful Aunt Kathy next year for either her birthday or Christmas. If I can just get it finished! I blogged about it earlier this year, see a WIP pic here.
4. Flannel Quilt.
This is one of the first quilts I ever started. It's all flannel and it's for the Hubs. He would be thrilled to finally have this one finished especially considering I started making it for him fifteen years ago...
I can't believe we have been together that long and that I still haven't finished the poor guy's quilt!
5. Butterfly Quilt.
I started making this for the MSP Quilting Angels sewing group I joined earlier this year. I really want to finish this one sooner rather than later, so if I can I'll finish this before Judy announces #5. I've made all of the blocks, so I just need to add the sashing, quilt it, and then add the binding. I think I can, I think I can...
6. Kaleidoscope Quilt.
I have to finish this one. I just need to finish quilting and binding it. It is going to be donated, so I need to get the lead out. If I have time after Christmas I will try to work on it. Blogged about it here.
7. Christmas Tree Skirt.
I really wanted to finish this for our tree this year, but it just didn't happen. Next year, next year...
8. My first QOV
I haven't technically started this one yet, but I'm putting it here. I've picked the pattern, pulled the fabrics and it's taking up room in my crammed project box, so I'm counting it! It will be donated through the MSP Quilting Angels group.
9. Postage Stamp Quilt
This was the first ever Quilt Along I joined and then I never finished it. I will be honest and say that when I started it I was so excited, but I lost interest soon after the piecing commenced. Unless I have a complete change of heart I think this one will be donated to the Quilting Angels when it's finished. See progress pics here.
10. Heart Strip Quilt.
I started cutting this out for the 100 Quilts for Kids project this year and then ran out of time. It would be great to have one already made when the next round is announed. Since all I've done so far is cut the strips it's not picture worthy, but check out the tutorial here.
11. Super Nova Quilt
I am so in love with this quilt! The pattern and the fabric equally, but it's for me, so it kept getting pushed to the back of the list. Hopefully 2012 will be the year I get to snuggle with it! All I have to do is quilt it (it's even basted) and bind it. See progress photos here.
12. Dutch Pinwheel Quilt.
I've made a couple of blocks from this tutorial. I'm thinking it will become a QOV that will be donated through my MSP Quilting Angels group.
My goal for this project is not to necessarily finish all of these, but to work on them even it's just for the assigned month. My concern is if I don't have a working list, these projects will be shoved in a closet and forgotten. Of course I do want to finish some of them, I'm just trying to be realistic. Twelve finishes in a year would be a lot for me and that's just my UFOs. Don't get me started on the new projects I want to start...
I can't wait for 2012 to get here, so I can get to work! How about you? Do you have any UFO's creeping around your sewing room? Care to join us?
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
It's Christmas Cookie Time!
My family loves Christmas cookies! I know, I know whose doesn't? Fortunately for them, I love to bake them! I have the old standbys that I try to make every year, but I always try to find something new to add to the mix. Most of the time it's more than one if time permits. :)
Today it was the Blueberry and Cream cookie. I have heard such great things about it that I couldn't wait to try it. I wasn't disappointed! I will say upfront that as far as cookies go, this one is a little more involved than most. It's not a complicated recipe, but it does require advanced planning. In other words, make sure to read the recipe the whole way through before starting!
I only thing I did differently was add a bag of white chocolate chips to the batter at the end because in my world, cookies need a little chocolate! I also found the cookies didn't need to be in the oven the full 22 minutes. Mine were finished after 18 minutes.
The end result was a really delicious cookie! Crispy around the edges, chewy in the middle, and a nice sweet/salty flavor. I'm so glad I decided to add the white chocolate! In my opinion, they are the perfect addition!
Here they are on the Christmas cookie plate! I think Hubs will be happy to see these when he walks through the door!
I'm linking up at Debbie's today for Tuesday at the Table. If you've done any cooking or baking recently that you'd like to share please link up! It's always fun to read and I'm so glad that I'm finally participating!
Today it was the Blueberry and Cream cookie. I have heard such great things about it that I couldn't wait to try it. I wasn't disappointed! I will say upfront that as far as cookies go, this one is a little more involved than most. It's not a complicated recipe, but it does require advanced planning. In other words, make sure to read the recipe the whole way through before starting!
I only thing I did differently was add a bag of white chocolate chips to the batter at the end because in my world, cookies need a little chocolate! I also found the cookies didn't need to be in the oven the full 22 minutes. Mine were finished after 18 minutes.
The end result was a really delicious cookie! Crispy around the edges, chewy in the middle, and a nice sweet/salty flavor. I'm so glad I decided to add the white chocolate! In my opinion, they are the perfect addition!
Here they are on the Christmas cookie plate! I think Hubs will be happy to see these when he walks through the door!
I'm linking up at Debbie's today for Tuesday at the Table. If you've done any cooking or baking recently that you'd like to share please link up! It's always fun to read and I'm so glad that I'm finally participating!
Christmas crafting
It is a gray, rainy day here in Virginia. If you can believe the weatherman it's going to be like this all week. We have kept ourselves busy with some holiday crafting!
Please allow me to introduce you to the newest members of the family:
Mr and Mrs Snowman (or as my son calls them, Mommy and Daddy snowman)
They are a little lopsided, but in our house they fit right in! We have no room for perfection here! Besides, I think they are pretty stinkin' cute! I really loved that they kept my toddler and me busy for at least an hour.
Then, we made felt snowman ornaments for the tree:
We made two more for the grandmothers, but this one is mine! I'm so happy that Hurst is finally old enough to do a little crafting with me! I try to do a little something with him everyday while his little brother takes his morning nap.
Last but not least, I was able to finally finish up my Christmas table runner recently! Sorry in advance for the rotten photos, but like I mentioned above, it's raining here which makes for really awful photo sessions. :(
It is just a simple disappearing nine patch made out of two charm packs of "12 Days of Chirstmas" by Kate Spain. This line is tied with Michael Miller's Funky Christmas as my favorite holiday fabric ever.
The quilting is a very simple little free motion loop that I think turned out pretty cute! Just don't look at the back!
I'm so glad to finally have this finished and on the table!
Anyone else busy making spirits bright?
For the first time ever, I'm linking up to Fabric Tuesday! I can't believe I remembered, so exciting!
Please allow me to introduce you to the newest members of the family:
Mr and Mrs Snowman (or as my son calls them, Mommy and Daddy snowman)
They are a little lopsided, but in our house they fit right in! We have no room for perfection here! Besides, I think they are pretty stinkin' cute! I really loved that they kept my toddler and me busy for at least an hour.
Then, we made felt snowman ornaments for the tree:
We made two more for the grandmothers, but this one is mine! I'm so happy that Hurst is finally old enough to do a little crafting with me! I try to do a little something with him everyday while his little brother takes his morning nap.
Last but not least, I was able to finally finish up my Christmas table runner recently! Sorry in advance for the rotten photos, but like I mentioned above, it's raining here which makes for really awful photo sessions. :(
It is just a simple disappearing nine patch made out of two charm packs of "12 Days of Chirstmas" by Kate Spain. This line is tied with Michael Miller's Funky Christmas as my favorite holiday fabric ever.
The quilting is a very simple little free motion loop that I think turned out pretty cute! Just don't look at the back!
I'm so glad to finally have this finished and on the table!
Anyone else busy making spirits bright?
For the first time ever, I'm linking up to Fabric Tuesday! I can't believe I remembered, so exciting!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
WIP Wednesday
All my dreams of sewing this past long weekend never happened. I was just too busy cooking, eating, and visiting with out-of-town friends. As much fun as it was, I'm starting to get a little nervous about my lack of progress on my tree skirt. Fortunately, my tree still looks like this!
We bought it Saturday, but we still don't even have the lights on it! Hopefully Hubby can get up to the attic tonight! We'll see though, we have a dinner guest this evening, so probably not! Oh well, at least it smells like Christmas in here!
I'm THIS close to finishing a Christmas project from last year. All I have to do is handsew the binding to the back. Why do I let my projects get to that point then stop? I always feel so dumb when I do that! I think one of my New Year's Resolutions is going to be if I get a project to the point of handsewing the binding, I have to finish it!! Ridiculous! Here's a sneak peek:
I'll hopefully have some finished shots for you tomorrow!
How is everyone else doing with their holiday sewing? I'm sure there is a lot of holiday sewing taking place at Lee's, go check it out!
We bought it Saturday, but we still don't even have the lights on it! Hopefully Hubby can get up to the attic tonight! We'll see though, we have a dinner guest this evening, so probably not! Oh well, at least it smells like Christmas in here!
I'm THIS close to finishing a Christmas project from last year. All I have to do is handsew the binding to the back. Why do I let my projects get to that point then stop? I always feel so dumb when I do that! I think one of my New Year's Resolutions is going to be if I get a project to the point of handsewing the binding, I have to finish it!! Ridiculous! Here's a sneak peek:
I'll hopefully have some finished shots for you tomorrow!
How is everyone else doing with their holiday sewing? I'm sure there is a lot of holiday sewing taking place at Lee's, go check it out!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
WIP Thursday...The Thanksgiving Edition.
Things have been crazy busy around here lately! For the first time, we our having dinner at our house just the four of us and we can't wait! The smell of the turkey is starting to fill the house and it is almost too much to take! Needless to say there hasn't been a lot of sewing going on the past couple of days between shopping, baking pies, and making turkeys.
However, I have made another square for the tree skirt. Yeah, clearly my piecing skills leave a lot to be desired, but I'm hoping once it's quilted and under the tree the mismatched seams won't be so noticeable. Besides, it's for us and we don't care if it's not perfect!
I have a lot to be thankful for this year! My health, my lovely home, my wonderfully supportive and loving husband. Mostly, I'm so grateful for my little turkeys!
I hope everyone here in the States has a very happy, safe Thanksgiving. Also, if you're going to do the Black Friday thing, be careful! I'm too chicken, I'm staying home and sewing!
However, I have made another square for the tree skirt. Yeah, clearly my piecing skills leave a lot to be desired, but I'm hoping once it's quilted and under the tree the mismatched seams won't be so noticeable. Besides, it's for us and we don't care if it's not perfect!
I have a lot to be thankful for this year! My health, my lovely home, my wonderfully supportive and loving husband. Mostly, I'm so grateful for my little turkeys!
I hope everyone here in the States has a very happy, safe Thanksgiving. Also, if you're going to do the Black Friday thing, be careful! I'm too chicken, I'm staying home and sewing!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Friday Night Sew in Results
Well, I wasn't able to do as much as I wanted, but I did get quite a bit accomplished this evening. I finished sewing my first block for the tree skirt and I love it and so does my husband! We are both so excited to have a tree skirt this year! Since we've been sharing a home we have wrapped the base of our tree with an old blanket from Ikea. Well, not this year!
Sorry for the horrible pictures! It's late and my sewing space is in the basement, so this is the best I could do. I was also able to cut out one more block which really speeds up the process.
While sewing this evening I decided that this is not the best project to work on while sewing with the guild. I, like most people I'm sure, usually end up talking more than sewing when I go to these meetings. While this isn't a hard block to sew if I'm not paying attention, I'll sew it together incorrectly. I learned this the hard way tonight when I had to take out the seam ripper twice because I was paying too much attention to HBO and not enough to my sewing! All of that to say, tomorrow I'm working on my Fruitcake quilt. At the rate I'm going I just might have a Christmas quilt this year!
So not a bad night of sewing considering I stopped in the middle to brush teeth, read bedtime stories, and make Cranberry Orange Bread. Now I'm off to bed because it is way past my bedtime and I have an early, busy day tomorrow!
Hope everyone else had a successful night!
Sorry for the horrible pictures! It's late and my sewing space is in the basement, so this is the best I could do. I was also able to cut out one more block which really speeds up the process.
While sewing this evening I decided that this is not the best project to work on while sewing with the guild. I, like most people I'm sure, usually end up talking more than sewing when I go to these meetings. While this isn't a hard block to sew if I'm not paying attention, I'll sew it together incorrectly. I learned this the hard way tonight when I had to take out the seam ripper twice because I was paying too much attention to HBO and not enough to my sewing! All of that to say, tomorrow I'm working on my Fruitcake quilt. At the rate I'm going I just might have a Christmas quilt this year!
So not a bad night of sewing considering I stopped in the middle to brush teeth, read bedtime stories, and make Cranberry Orange Bread. Now I'm off to bed because it is way past my bedtime and I have an early, busy day tomorrow!
Hope everyone else had a successful night!
Friday Night Sew in
It's here again! How is that possible? The months go by quicker and quicker! Tonight's post will be super fast because I have a really busy, jam packed quilty Saturday planned. First, I am going to meet with the Quilting Angels for the blessing of the quilts they have made this year (I'm too new, I haven't completed anything yet), and then I'm rushing off to meet with the DC Modern Quilt Guild for a sewing day. Needless to say, I can't wait!
Tonight I'm going to cut out pieces for my tree skirt to sew together tomorrow with the guild. I'm hoping cutting out the pieces ahead of time will make the process go faster! I only have about a week before Christmas tree season! Wish me luck!
Is anyone else sewing tonight?
Tonight I'm going to cut out pieces for my tree skirt to sew together tomorrow with the guild. I'm hoping cutting out the pieces ahead of time will make the process go faster! I only have about a week before Christmas tree season! Wish me luck!
Is anyone else sewing tonight?
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
WIP Wednesday
How is it possible that it's Wednesday already? I can't believe we are so close to the end of the year! Before I know it, I'll be thinking about my New Year's Resolutions!
This past week has been absolutely crazy! All three of the men in my life were sick this weekend. I don't know who was more pitiful, my 10 month old, my two year old or my 35 year old! Fortunately, they are all doing a lot better! Sadly, that meant I didn't get a whole lot accomplished as far as sewing. This weekend I was pretty exclusively a laundress, chef and nurse. :(
I did start working on my Christmas projects which has been fun. I sewed a couple of blocks for the Fruitcake quilt. I know I say it everytime, but I just love this fabric line! If I don't finish until after Christmas I think I can safely leave it out after the holiday. I will think of this as more of a winter quilt than Christmas!
I also started cutting out my tree skirt. (The link takes you to Tallgrass Prairie Studio. The tutorial for the Starry Forest tree skirt is located towards the bottom of the page on the right side, if you are interested in a sneak peek.) My husband has been hinting lately how much he would like it if we had one this year, so I think that's going to be the top priority for now. We always get our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving, so I'm sure I won't finish it by the weekend after next, but I intend to try!
Sorry for the awful pics, but the combination of a late night and basement lighting doesn't equal good photography!
The only progress I made on stockings was buying an ugly, cheap one from Target to trace for a stocking shape. I think I'll start working on these when the tree skirt is finished.
That's it for me! Now that everyone is starting to feel a little healthier I'm hoping to fit in a little more sewing time this week especially this weekend. Stop by Lee's to see what everyone else has been up to this week. It's always so inspiring!
This past week has been absolutely crazy! All three of the men in my life were sick this weekend. I don't know who was more pitiful, my 10 month old, my two year old or my 35 year old! Fortunately, they are all doing a lot better! Sadly, that meant I didn't get a whole lot accomplished as far as sewing. This weekend I was pretty exclusively a laundress, chef and nurse. :(
I did start working on my Christmas projects which has been fun. I sewed a couple of blocks for the Fruitcake quilt. I know I say it everytime, but I just love this fabric line! If I don't finish until after Christmas I think I can safely leave it out after the holiday. I will think of this as more of a winter quilt than Christmas!
I also started cutting out my tree skirt. (The link takes you to Tallgrass Prairie Studio. The tutorial for the Starry Forest tree skirt is located towards the bottom of the page on the right side, if you are interested in a sneak peek.) My husband has been hinting lately how much he would like it if we had one this year, so I think that's going to be the top priority for now. We always get our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving, so I'm sure I won't finish it by the weekend after next, but I intend to try!
Sorry for the awful pics, but the combination of a late night and basement lighting doesn't equal good photography!
The only progress I made on stockings was buying an ugly, cheap one from Target to trace for a stocking shape. I think I'll start working on these when the tree skirt is finished.
That's it for me! Now that everyone is starting to feel a little healthier I'm hoping to fit in a little more sewing time this week especially this weekend. Stop by Lee's to see what everyone else has been up to this week. It's always so inspiring!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
Well, I have a pretty boring stash report this week. I've been sewing, but I still can't count anything out. The good news is, I haven't added anything. I don't have any chance of being in the black before the end of the year, but with Christmas around the corner I really want to keep my fabric spending as close to zero as possible. It is so easy to overspend this time of year, so I think fabric should be an easy thing to cut out. I have a handfull of Christmas projects I want to make for my family, and I will only buy fabric if I need it to finish a project. Honestly, I probably have enough Christmas fabric to sew for at least 3 families! :)
That being said I have set all of my current WIPS aside to work on Christmas items for my family. My objective today is to start cutting out the pieces for a tree skirt. My husband has said twice this weekend that he would love for us to have a tree skirt this year (subtle, isn't he?). We always get our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving, so I have to get working!
Yesterday I pulled out the squares I was working on earlier this year for a Christmas quilt.
I just love this line! I'm not sure I'll be able to finish this before Christmas, but it is fun to pull these out and work on a couple at a time! Hurst is really into snowmen lately, so he loves it! I don't want to put too much pressure on myself, but it would so nice for him to be able to cuddle up in this quilt this season...
Has anyone else been bitten by the Christmas sewing bug yet? I usually try to wait until after Thanksgiving, but I'm too excited this year!
Onto the numbers:
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 137.75 yards
Net Added YTD: 103 yards
As I said, no chance of ending the year in the black, but Christmas sewing from my stash should help!
To see how everyone else is doing, head over to Judy's.
That being said I have set all of my current WIPS aside to work on Christmas items for my family. My objective today is to start cutting out the pieces for a tree skirt. My husband has said twice this weekend that he would love for us to have a tree skirt this year (subtle, isn't he?). We always get our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving, so I have to get working!
Yesterday I pulled out the squares I was working on earlier this year for a Christmas quilt.
I just love this line! I'm not sure I'll be able to finish this before Christmas, but it is fun to pull these out and work on a couple at a time! Hurst is really into snowmen lately, so he loves it! I don't want to put too much pressure on myself, but it would so nice for him to be able to cuddle up in this quilt this season...
Has anyone else been bitten by the Christmas sewing bug yet? I usually try to wait until after Thanksgiving, but I'm too excited this year!
Onto the numbers:
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 137.75 yards
Net Added YTD: 103 yards
As I said, no chance of ending the year in the black, but Christmas sewing from my stash should help!
To see how everyone else is doing, head over to Judy's.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
WIP Wednesday
I am so thrilled to be participating in WIP Wednesday on it's one year anniversary! It has been such a pleasure keeping up with everyone this past year! Congrats Lee, you've come a long way baby!!
It is this time of year that I start getting in panic mode about Christmas. I've decided this year not to do it! That's it, you heard it here...not going to do it.
I've decided to not pressure myself about sewing Christmas presents this year. The people in my life will be just as happy with something from a store as with a homemade gift.
I am however, hoping to sew up a whole bunch of stuff to celebrate the season for MY family. Stockings, a tree skirt, pillows and maybe even finish my first Christmas quilt.
So for now all of my other WIPS, with the exception of my Kaleidoscope (I'm determined to finish that before the end of the year) and at least one stocking for Stockings for Kids, are going to be set aside.
This stack of lovely fabrics, mostly from Michael Miller's Funky Christmas, will be used to make a tree skirt. I wanted to do this last year and it didn't work out, so hopefully I'll have time this year.
My favorite print from Funky Christmas. I think it will make the perfect stocking for little Graham.
This little stack of lovelies from Riley Blake will be for my stocking. I think I might have to pull a little green from the stash, but other than that I think this will work nicely. I'm thinking about using this tutorial.
Lastly, here are the Fruitcake blocks. I started this earlier this year and then set it aside for more pressing projects. It's just a simple framed square block made from a jelly roll and a charm pack, should be easy enough to complete! I think Hurst will love this! Lately, he is obsessed with snowmen!
Sorry to be in Christmas mode already, but it is the most wonderful time of the year! I'm already so excited for it to get here. I started teaching Hurst how to sing Jingle Bells yesterday and he's almost got it!
To see what others in blogland are doing to keep themselves busy, head over to Lee's.
It is this time of year that I start getting in panic mode about Christmas. I've decided this year not to do it! That's it, you heard it here...not going to do it.
I've decided to not pressure myself about sewing Christmas presents this year. The people in my life will be just as happy with something from a store as with a homemade gift.
I am however, hoping to sew up a whole bunch of stuff to celebrate the season for MY family. Stockings, a tree skirt, pillows and maybe even finish my first Christmas quilt.
So for now all of my other WIPS, with the exception of my Kaleidoscope (I'm determined to finish that before the end of the year) and at least one stocking for Stockings for Kids, are going to be set aside.
This stack of lovely fabrics, mostly from Michael Miller's Funky Christmas, will be used to make a tree skirt. I wanted to do this last year and it didn't work out, so hopefully I'll have time this year.
My favorite print from Funky Christmas. I think it will make the perfect stocking for little Graham.
Lastly, here are the Fruitcake blocks. I started this earlier this year and then set it aside for more pressing projects. It's just a simple framed square block made from a jelly roll and a charm pack, should be easy enough to complete! I think Hurst will love this! Lately, he is obsessed with snowmen!
Sorry to be in Christmas mode already, but it is the most wonderful time of the year! I'm already so excited for it to get here. I started teaching Hurst how to sing Jingle Bells yesterday and he's almost got it!
To see what others in blogland are doing to keep themselves busy, head over to Lee's.
Monday, November 7, 2011
To blog or not to blog...
I have been driving myself crazy the past few weeks debating whether or not to continue this blog. I haven't been posting much recently because frankly I haven't been sewing a whole lot. Also, when I do have some free time I feel like I should sew instead of blog. However, being really honest, lately I'm so exhausted the only thing I feel like doing is looking at blogs and admiring others work, hoping that one day I'll have the energy to quilt again!
The main culprits for my sleep deprivation:
These two little angels! While they are adorable and have so many other wonderful qualities, they do. not. sleep.EVER! To make matters worse, we live in a tiny urban home, so my darlings are now sharing a room. I'm literally up with one or both of them at least 5 times a night! Don't get me wrong I love my children more than anything! My husband and I had to wait a long time to have our first child, so having two little boys has been a dream come true for both of us! But now, we dream about sleeping, and sending them off to college (just kidding...kind of) :)
The more I thought about my blog though, the more I realized I'd really miss it if I stopped. I don't have a ton of followers, but I have to admit when someone comments on one of my posts I'm absolutely thrilled! I love sending my thoughts and pictures out into the great unknown and having someone respond to it! There really is nothing else like it.
So, long story short, I'm sticking around. Please be patient with me while my little family and I work through these growing pains. I know we will make it through this, it's just going to take a little time!
I can only hope that as I find more time to sew and spend more time with my awesome local quilting groups (this one and this one) I will be back to blogging more regularly in no time!
Take care everyone and thanks for listening!
By the way, I have reached two milestones recently: my one year blogging anniversary and writing my 100th post. For those of you that love a giveaway (who among us doesn't?), be on the look out for one soon!
The main culprits for my sleep deprivation:
These two little angels! While they are adorable and have so many other wonderful qualities, they do. not. sleep.EVER! To make matters worse, we live in a tiny urban home, so my darlings are now sharing a room. I'm literally up with one or both of them at least 5 times a night! Don't get me wrong I love my children more than anything! My husband and I had to wait a long time to have our first child, so having two little boys has been a dream come true for both of us! But now, we dream about sleeping, and sending them off to college (just kidding...kind of) :)
The more I thought about my blog though, the more I realized I'd really miss it if I stopped. I don't have a ton of followers, but I have to admit when someone comments on one of my posts I'm absolutely thrilled! I love sending my thoughts and pictures out into the great unknown and having someone respond to it! There really is nothing else like it.
So, long story short, I'm sticking around. Please be patient with me while my little family and I work through these growing pains. I know we will make it through this, it's just going to take a little time!
I can only hope that as I find more time to sew and spend more time with my awesome local quilting groups (this one and this one) I will be back to blogging more regularly in no time!
Take care everyone and thanks for listening!
By the way, I have reached two milestones recently: my one year blogging anniversary and writing my 100th post. For those of you that love a giveaway (who among us doesn't?), be on the look out for one soon!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
The good news this week is I did get some sewing in. Unfortunately, I can't count a whole lot of it out because I didn't finish anything, but progress was made. I used some stash for the binding of a table runner, made more butterfly blocks, and did a little quilting on my Kaleidoscope.
The bad news, at least for the stash report it's bad, I bought some fabric. Well, a lot of fabric I guess. Every year Pam from Del Ray Fabrics has a tent sale in her backyard and she always invites the DC Modern Quilt Guild. Last year I didn't go because I was hugely pregnant and exhausted. This year I didn't want to miss it, and I'm glad I didn't!!
I had told myself when this line came out that I would have to pick a few prints that I really wanted, but I wasn't going to buy the whole line, way too expensive. As soon as I walked into the tent sale I saw this bundle, and decided to just see how much she wanted for it. It was marked down to more than 50% off of the cheapest price I had found online. Needless to say, I cradled it in my arms like a little baby the whole time I browsed. It was coming home with me! I also picked up a few fat quarters of Children at Play by Sarah Jane.
So cute! Perfect little boy fabric. Lucky me, I have two of them!
Thanks Pam! You made my day!
I really can't speak highly enough of Del Ray Fabrics. Not only does she have a great selection, but she is so incredibly generous. She donated a ton of beautiful fabrics to the 100 Quilts for Kids drive. If you are on the lookout for a new online fabric source, please look them up.
Onto the numbers:
Used this week: 0.25 yards
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added this week: 9.75 yards
Added YTD: 137.75 yards
Net Added YTD: 103 yards
My goal this week is to finish up my Kaleidoscope quilt and make more butterfly blocks.
We'll see how I do!
To see what everyone else is up, go to Judy's.
The bad news, at least for the stash report it's bad, I bought some fabric. Well, a lot of fabric I guess. Every year Pam from Del Ray Fabrics has a tent sale in her backyard and she always invites the DC Modern Quilt Guild. Last year I didn't go because I was hugely pregnant and exhausted. This year I didn't want to miss it, and I'm glad I didn't!!
I had told myself when this line came out that I would have to pick a few prints that I really wanted, but I wasn't going to buy the whole line, way too expensive. As soon as I walked into the tent sale I saw this bundle, and decided to just see how much she wanted for it. It was marked down to more than 50% off of the cheapest price I had found online. Needless to say, I cradled it in my arms like a little baby the whole time I browsed. It was coming home with me! I also picked up a few fat quarters of Children at Play by Sarah Jane.
So cute! Perfect little boy fabric. Lucky me, I have two of them!
Thanks Pam! You made my day!
I really can't speak highly enough of Del Ray Fabrics. Not only does she have a great selection, but she is so incredibly generous. She donated a ton of beautiful fabrics to the 100 Quilts for Kids drive. If you are on the lookout for a new online fabric source, please look them up.
Onto the numbers:
Used this week: 0.25 yards
Used YTD: 34.75 yards
Added this week: 9.75 yards
Added YTD: 137.75 yards
Net Added YTD: 103 yards
My goal this week is to finish up my Kaleidoscope quilt and make more butterfly blocks.
We'll see how I do!
To see what everyone else is up, go to Judy's.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Friday Night Sew in Results
I'm a little (all right a lot) late reporting my sewing from Friday night, but today has been one of those non-stop days. All of the things on the to do list have been fun, but still busy!
I wasn't very productive, but I did at least get the binding sewn on my table runner.
I pieced the top and quilted this runner last year around this time and then just completely dropped the ball when it came to the binding. Not sure why, but it happens, right? Needless to say, I'm thrilled that I will be able to use it this year!
We are leaving bright and early tomorrow morning to visit my parents in southern Virginia. We are so excited because they really go overboard with the Halloween decorations every year, so I'm interested to see the boys reaction to them. Some of it is scary, so will see how my 2 year old handles it. I'm hoping he doesn't have nightmares all week...
Anyway, we will be in the car for 6 hours tomorrow (without traffic), so that should give me plenty of time to sew on the binding.
I hope everyone else had a productive Friday Night Sew in!
I wasn't very productive, but I did at least get the binding sewn on my table runner.
I pieced the top and quilted this runner last year around this time and then just completely dropped the ball when it came to the binding. Not sure why, but it happens, right? Needless to say, I'm thrilled that I will be able to use it this year!
We are leaving bright and early tomorrow morning to visit my parents in southern Virginia. We are so excited because they really go overboard with the Halloween decorations every year, so I'm interested to see the boys reaction to them. Some of it is scary, so will see how my 2 year old handles it. I'm hoping he doesn't have nightmares all week...
Anyway, we will be in the car for 6 hours tomorrow (without traffic), so that should give me plenty of time to sew on the binding.
I hope everyone else had a productive Friday Night Sew in!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Friday Night Sew in
Ah, the best night of the month! Even though I am exhausted from taking my children to the pumpkin patch today, I'm determined to do some sewing this evening! The Hubs very kindly has taken the boys out to dinner, so I figure the least I can do is work on some UFO's and not nap. :)
My goal tonight is to attach the binding to a Halloween table runner from last year and work towards finishing up the quilting on my Kaleidoscope quilt. That should be easy enough to do, although I really want to start something new. What is wrong with me? We will see how much I accomplish before falling asleep.
Anyone else sewing tonight?
My goal tonight is to attach the binding to a Halloween table runner from last year and work towards finishing up the quilting on my Kaleidoscope quilt. That should be easy enough to do, although I really want to start something new. What is wrong with me? We will see how much I accomplish before falling asleep.
Anyone else sewing tonight?
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
I was so lucky to be able to fit in a lot of sewing this week. Unfortunately, I can't count any of it out yet, but hopefully soon. For the rest of the year I'm going to try to concentrate on finishing up my UFO's, Christmas gifts, and a couple of baby quilts. That should keep me busy into the new year! My sons and I finally seemed to get a napping schedule worked out, and they both slept at the same time! That was a huge victory this week! I'm hoping that continues because it really gave me some extra time in the sewing room!
I'm very happy to report that I had one finish this week! It really has me itching to finish up my other projects. I really want to start the year free of UFO's!
I did have a small addition to the stash this week. I picked up four fat quarters for the butterfly blocks I have been working on. It turns out I don't have many bright, little girl appropriate fabrics in my stash. A quick trip to Hancock fabrics this week fixed that! I must admit I have really enjoyed working on a quilt for a little girl. I just found out that my cousin is expecting her first baby next spring. I have my fingers crossed for a baby girl!
My numbers for this week:
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 34.5 yards
Added this week: 1 yard
Added YTD: 128 yards
Net added for the year: 93.5 yards
To see how everyone else did, go to Judy's. Enjoy your Sunday!
I'm very happy to report that I had one finish this week! It really has me itching to finish up my other projects. I really want to start the year free of UFO's!
I did have a small addition to the stash this week. I picked up four fat quarters for the butterfly blocks I have been working on. It turns out I don't have many bright, little girl appropriate fabrics in my stash. A quick trip to Hancock fabrics this week fixed that! I must admit I have really enjoyed working on a quilt for a little girl. I just found out that my cousin is expecting her first baby next spring. I have my fingers crossed for a baby girl!
My numbers for this week:
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 34.5 yards
Added this week: 1 yard
Added YTD: 128 yards
Net added for the year: 93.5 yards
To see how everyone else did, go to Judy's. Enjoy your Sunday!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
100 Quilts for Kids
There is a reason I don't sign up for online quilting bees. I love reading about the bee blocks others are making and I especially love to see the finished product. Alas, I know in my heart of hearts, that I would totally be that person every month freaking out, driving like a mad woman to the post office to get the blocks off on time!!
I finally finished sewing the binding on this little beauty last night. What can I say? I made it! Deadline met, at the last second, but met just the same!
It isn't fancy, the quilting is far from perfect, but I love it! I truly hope that a local child will get a some comfort from this little quilt.
I used the leftover 5 inch squares from the front for a little framed patchwork on the back. Simple, but very pretty.
I didn't bother to take any close ups of the quilting because it's not great, but I'm definitely getting better. Anyone reading this who is contemplating trying free motion quilting: Go for it! It's challenging, but so much fun! It is absolutely true that your quilting will look better the more you do it!
Now, I'm off to get ready for the DC Modern guild meeting today. We are meeting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. How cool is that?
Enjoy the weekend everyone!
I finally finished sewing the binding on this little beauty last night. What can I say? I made it! Deadline met, at the last second, but met just the same!
It isn't fancy, the quilting is far from perfect, but I love it! I truly hope that a local child will get a some comfort from this little quilt.
I used the leftover 5 inch squares from the front for a little framed patchwork on the back. Simple, but very pretty.
I didn't bother to take any close ups of the quilting because it's not great, but I'm definitely getting better. Anyone reading this who is contemplating trying free motion quilting: Go for it! It's challenging, but so much fun! It is absolutely true that your quilting will look better the more you do it!
Now, I'm off to get ready for the DC Modern guild meeting today. We are meeting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. How cool is that?
Enjoy the weekend everyone!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
I missed last week's stash report, so hold on this is going to be a long one! :)
Between battling bouts of my own and my children's illnesses (somehow my beloved husband always misses out on the fun) I have managed to get quite a bit of sewing done. Unfortunately, I can't count any of it yet. :( That's okay though. I'm using the stash and I'm having fun and that's what it's all about right?
I have joined a new sewing group that meets twice a month to sew for two organizations: Quilts for Kids (pediatric illnesses) and Quilts of Valor. I've only been to one meeting so far, but it was FANTASTIC! Everyone was so nice and welcoming. They also didn't seem to be at all bothered that I'm an incredibly slow quilter! I can't wait to go back on the 29th! Using one of the groups many BOM patterns, I'm making butterflies:
My plan is to make 16 of these beauties sashed in black, and then an outer border. I hope it will make a little girl very happy! They make me happy everytime I make one! This is the only new thing I have going on which is good since I have some many other unfinished projects!
I have also been doing quite a bit of shopping. Last weekend I needed a little mommy time, so what's a girl to do, but go to the quilt store...
I had to buy some Terrain. Seriously, it practically threw itself at me! :)
I picked up these Ann Kelle pieces to add to my stash. I'm slowly collecting her boy appropriate prints to make an I-Spy quilt for my boys. I just love her designs!
Then I picked up some of the leaves from Little Apples. I have no plans for these, but I thought they'd be good additions to the stash. I would love to have the whole line, but right now it just isn't in the budget. :(
Kona Black for the butterflies, Christmas fabric for this project, and some lemons because they were pretty! What can I say? I have no will power...
The numbers:
Used this week: 2 yards (includes fabric I donated to 100 quilts for kids project)
Used YTD: 34.5 yards
Added this week: 12 yards
Added YTD: 127 yards
Net added YTD: 92.5 yards.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to go sew. To see how everyone else did, please head over to Judy's.
Between battling bouts of my own and my children's illnesses (somehow my beloved husband always misses out on the fun) I have managed to get quite a bit of sewing done. Unfortunately, I can't count any of it yet. :( That's okay though. I'm using the stash and I'm having fun and that's what it's all about right?
I have joined a new sewing group that meets twice a month to sew for two organizations: Quilts for Kids (pediatric illnesses) and Quilts of Valor. I've only been to one meeting so far, but it was FANTASTIC! Everyone was so nice and welcoming. They also didn't seem to be at all bothered that I'm an incredibly slow quilter! I can't wait to go back on the 29th! Using one of the groups many BOM patterns, I'm making butterflies:
My plan is to make 16 of these beauties sashed in black, and then an outer border. I hope it will make a little girl very happy! They make me happy everytime I make one! This is the only new thing I have going on which is good since I have some many other unfinished projects!
I have also been doing quite a bit of shopping. Last weekend I needed a little mommy time, so what's a girl to do, but go to the quilt store...
I had to buy some Terrain. Seriously, it practically threw itself at me! :)
Then I picked up some of the leaves from Little Apples. I have no plans for these, but I thought they'd be good additions to the stash. I would love to have the whole line, but right now it just isn't in the budget. :(
I thought this print would work for a QOV that I'm planning to make in the New Year. Right now I'm just in the planning stages, but I think it's going to be really cool!
This past Friday night I went to Joanne's armed with a coupon and came out with this:
The numbers:
Used this week: 2 yards (includes fabric I donated to 100 quilts for kids project)
Used YTD: 34.5 yards
Added this week: 12 yards
Added YTD: 127 yards
Net added YTD: 92.5 yards.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to go sew. To see how everyone else did, please head over to Judy's.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
Unfortunately, I haven't been able to do a lot of sewing this week. The earlier part of the week found us enjoying the beautiful weather at the park and we went to some really fun playgroups. Sadly, the boys and I picked up a really brutal cold from one of these fun activities. Before I succombed to the bug, I was able to piece the back to my quilt for 100 Quilts for Kids. I, also, pieced a couple of the Farmer's Wife QAL blocks (post to follow soon).
I broke my "no shopping" streak when I found a sale on Etsy for a charm pack and jelly roll of Fruitcake. I bought it to finish up a Christmas quilt I had started making earlier this year, so I don't feel too bad about the purchase. I had told myself that I was only going to buy fabric for the rest of the year to finish projects I'd already started, and so far I'm sticking to that.
Used this week: 2 yards
Used YTD: 32.5 yards
Added this week: 3 yards
Added YTD: 115 yards
Net Added for the year: 82.5 yards.
Not so bad this week! Now, if I could just stop blowing my nose long enough to make a stitch! To see how everyone else did this week, head on over to Judy's.
I broke my "no shopping" streak when I found a sale on Etsy for a charm pack and jelly roll of Fruitcake. I bought it to finish up a Christmas quilt I had started making earlier this year, so I don't feel too bad about the purchase. I had told myself that I was only going to buy fabric for the rest of the year to finish projects I'd already started, and so far I'm sticking to that.
Used this week: 2 yards
Used YTD: 32.5 yards
Added this week: 3 yards
Added YTD: 115 yards
Net Added for the year: 82.5 yards.
Not so bad this week! Now, if I could just stop blowing my nose long enough to make a stitch! To see how everyone else did this week, head on over to Judy's.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
I had a great sewing week! I did a little bit of sewing, and I made it through another week without adding anything to the stash! You can't beat that!
I finished my quilt top for 100 Quilts for Kids Friday night with the DC Modern Quilt Guild. What a fun group! Now that baby boy Graham is a little older I hope to spend a lot more time with them!
My numbers for the week:
Used this week: 2 yards
Used YTD: 30.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Added YTD: 81.5 yards.
My numbers don't quite look the way I had hoped they would earlier this year, but I am pleased with my numbers the past few weeks. I love that I was able to make this adorable quilt for a child in need in my area strictly from stash fabrics!
I hope everyone enjoys what's left of the weekend! Head over to Judy's to see how everyone else did this week.
I finished my quilt top for 100 Quilts for Kids Friday night with the DC Modern Quilt Guild. What a fun group! Now that baby boy Graham is a little older I hope to spend a lot more time with them!
My numbers for the week:
Used this week: 2 yards
Used YTD: 30.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Added YTD: 81.5 yards.
My numbers don't quite look the way I had hoped they would earlier this year, but I am pleased with my numbers the past few weeks. I love that I was able to make this adorable quilt for a child in need in my area strictly from stash fabrics!
I hope everyone enjoys what's left of the weekend! Head over to Judy's to see how everyone else did this week.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Friday Night Sew...Out
Instead of staying home and sewing, last night I met with the lovely ladies of the DC Modern Quilt Guild. It was so nice to spend the evening chatting and sewing! The best part is I was able to finish my top for the quilt I'm donating for 100 Quilts for Kids.
Needless to say when I pulled the fabrics for this quilt, I was definitely ready for fall! I started with the owl, apple and flower fabrics and just started pulling oranges, yellows and greens from my stash. As with all of my projects it's not perfect, but I love it! During naptime I'm going to piece the back with some leftovers from the front, and IF I have time I'll do some really simple stippling. I'm hoping to have this finished really soon.
It's not too late to make a quilt to donate. If you haven't already, check out the list of prizes on Katie's blog. There are some really great sponsors this year!
I'm off to go spend some time with the boys. Hope everyone enjoys the weekend! It's cool and rainy here today. It might be the perfect time to decorate for Halloween...
Needless to say when I pulled the fabrics for this quilt, I was definitely ready for fall! I started with the owl, apple and flower fabrics and just started pulling oranges, yellows and greens from my stash. As with all of my projects it's not perfect, but I love it! During naptime I'm going to piece the back with some leftovers from the front, and IF I have time I'll do some really simple stippling. I'm hoping to have this finished really soon.
It's not too late to make a quilt to donate. If you haven't already, check out the list of prizes on Katie's blog. There are some really great sponsors this year!
I'm off to go spend some time with the boys. Hope everyone enjoys the weekend! It's cool and rainy here today. It might be the perfect time to decorate for Halloween...
Edited: Quilt top made using this tutorial.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
No new finishes this week. We were too busy tending to our leaky basement to do any sewing. I'm hoping that's the last of the rain for a little while for this area! We can't take much more!
With all the craziness I also didn't have time to shop, online or otherwise, this week. I was very sad this week to hear that my favorite local quilt shop is closing. When I told my husband, he said he was shocked they were closing their doors, after all, hadn't I been keeping them in business all these years? (He thinks he's so funny...) If you are lucky enough to have a local quilt store that you love, please try to shop there whenever you can! I can't say how sad I am that I won't be able to go there when I have a few extra minutes on a Saturday to browse. It was my favorite thing to do when the hubby was home and the boys were napping. :(
Now that things have returned somewhat back to normal, I'm going to try to get some sewing in. Although, our autumn activities are starting back up this week. A new session of story times at the library and two playgroups start in full force starting tomorrow. We'll see how much I get accomplished...
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net added YTD: 83.5 yards.
To see how everyone else did this week head over to Judy's.
With all the craziness I also didn't have time to shop, online or otherwise, this week. I was very sad this week to hear that my favorite local quilt shop is closing. When I told my husband, he said he was shocked they were closing their doors, after all, hadn't I been keeping them in business all these years? (He thinks he's so funny...) If you are lucky enough to have a local quilt store that you love, please try to shop there whenever you can! I can't say how sad I am that I won't be able to go there when I have a few extra minutes on a Saturday to browse. It was my favorite thing to do when the hubby was home and the boys were napping. :(
Now that things have returned somewhat back to normal, I'm going to try to get some sewing in. Although, our autumn activities are starting back up this week. A new session of story times at the library and two playgroups start in full force starting tomorrow. We'll see how much I get accomplished...
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net added YTD: 83.5 yards.
To see how everyone else did this week head over to Judy's.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Hopeful Weekend Sewing
I'm sure I speak for everyone who lives on the east coast when I say "enough with the natural disasters". My husband and I have spent the past three days dealing with water in our basement. While it hasn't been fun, we are very fortunate compared to others. Many people in our neighborhood had to evacuate their homes due to the flash flooding, so we could have had it much worse! I'm hoping we are finished with the excitement for a little while. I have had my fill of earthquakes, aftershocks, hurricanes and tropical storms! At least until winter...then I hope we get a huge snow storm! :)
Now that things are somewhat back to normal, I'm going to spend naptime with my poor neglected sewing machine! Not only do I need to finish quilting the Kalediscope quilt, but I need to get moving on my tops for 100 Quilts for Kids. DC Modern's sew-in is Friday night, so I need to get working...
I found a great article on Denyse Schmidt in the WSJ. If you are a fan of her work, you won't want to miss it! I always love to read about how my favorite artists find their inspiration! Sadly, the article didn't confirm the rumor that Flea Market Fancy is being re-released, but a girl can hope!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend!
Now that things are somewhat back to normal, I'm going to spend naptime with my poor neglected sewing machine! Not only do I need to finish quilting the Kalediscope quilt, but I need to get moving on my tops for 100 Quilts for Kids. DC Modern's sew-in is Friday night, so I need to get working...
I found a great article on Denyse Schmidt in the WSJ. If you are a fan of her work, you won't want to miss it! I always love to read about how my favorite artists find their inspiration! Sadly, the article didn't confirm the rumor that Flea Market Fancy is being re-released, but a girl can hope!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
Unfortunately, I didn't get a lot of sewing accomplished this week. The good news is I didn't do any fabric shopping either, so that counts as a victory in my book. :)
I completely changed directions with the quilting on my Kaleidoscope. I was doing "simple" straight, organic line quilting, but it never looks right when I do that. I've decided to take the easy way out and do a simple meandering quilting design. Still not perfect, but I think it looks more appropriate for this more traditional pattern and fabric. So while I haven't been doing a lot of sewing, I have spent some quality time with my trusty seam ripper. SIGH...
Here's hoping I will have a finish to show off later this week!
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Added YTD: 83.5 yards.
To see other stash reports, head over to Judy's. Happy Labor Day weekend to everyone in the States. Hope you are enjoying a long weekend with family and friends!
I completely changed directions with the quilting on my Kaleidoscope. I was doing "simple" straight, organic line quilting, but it never looks right when I do that. I've decided to take the easy way out and do a simple meandering quilting design. Still not perfect, but I think it looks more appropriate for this more traditional pattern and fabric. So while I haven't been doing a lot of sewing, I have spent some quality time with my trusty seam ripper. SIGH...
Here's hoping I will have a finish to show off later this week!
Used this week: 0 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Added YTD: 83.5 yards.
To see other stash reports, head over to Judy's. Happy Labor Day weekend to everyone in the States. Hope you are enjoying a long weekend with family and friends!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Winner, Winner
First of all, I would like to thank everyone for entering! I was so flattered that so many people came by my teeny, tiny blog and left me such sweet and thoughtful comments. If I could I would send everyone of you a charm pack, but there can only be one, here goes:
True Random Integer Generator
Min:
Max:
Result:
91
Powered by RANDOM.ORG
I couldn't figure out how to get the pretty little blue box posted in my blog post, so here's a good old copy and paste!
Congrats to #91 Marieke,
Marieke said...
Congrats on winning the Go Baby! It'll be cool to see what you make with it!
I sent you an email earlier this morning. Congrats! I hope you really enjoy the new fabric! The colors used in Terrain are so vibrant and beautiful! Perfect for fall!
Again, thank you so much to everyone for entering! It was a blast! I was so pleased to see I picked a few new followers during this little venture!While it wasn't my goal it is always so flattering! I will try to not bore all of you to death!
Please keep checking back in as I think I will be reaching a few milestones soon that might require another celebratory giveaway...
Now I'm off to care for my sick little boy (double ear infections!) Poor baby!
True Random Integer Generator
Min:
Max:
Result:
91
Powered by RANDOM.ORG
I couldn't figure out how to get the pretty little blue box posted in my blog post, so here's a good old copy and paste!
Congrats to #91 Marieke,
Marieke said...
Congrats on winning the Go Baby! It'll be cool to see what you make with it!
I sent you an email earlier this morning. Congrats! I hope you really enjoy the new fabric! The colors used in Terrain are so vibrant and beautiful! Perfect for fall!
Again, thank you so much to everyone for entering! It was a blast! I was so pleased to see I picked a few new followers during this little venture!While it wasn't my goal it is always so flattering! I will try to not bore all of you to death!
Please keep checking back in as I think I will be reaching a few milestones soon that might require another celebratory giveaway...
Now I'm off to care for my sick little boy (double ear infections!) Poor baby!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Sunday Stash Report
Hello!
Despite the two natural disaters in my neck of the woods this week (earthquake and hurricane...yikes) I've managed to get quite a bit of sewing done. I basted and started quilting my Kaleidoscope. I'm hoping to finish up the quilting this afternoon and attach the binding. I think I might have a finish to show off really soon...
I also found some time to start working on my 100 Quilts for Kids project this week. I'm using this awesome tutorial from Amanda Jean. So far, So good!
I just love these fabrics! I might even have enough left over to make one more quilt. Maybe for the local NICU?
The best news is, all this sewing, and no shopping!! Not that I need anymore fabric, but that's never stopped me before...
All in all, this has been a great week! My family and property survived all nature threw at us with no problem. We are so very lucky and thankful!
Used this week: 5.5 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Used/Added YTD: -83.5 yards.
I still have a long way to go, but at least it is going in the right direction!
To see how everyone else did this week, head on over to Judy's.
**FYI-If anyone is interested, I am hosting my first ever giveaway. It's a pretty good one, so see this post if you're feeling lucky!
Despite the two natural disaters in my neck of the woods this week (earthquake and hurricane...yikes) I've managed to get quite a bit of sewing done. I basted and started quilting my Kaleidoscope. I'm hoping to finish up the quilting this afternoon and attach the binding. I think I might have a finish to show off really soon...
I also found some time to start working on my 100 Quilts for Kids project this week. I'm using this awesome tutorial from Amanda Jean. So far, So good!
I just love these fabrics! I might even have enough left over to make one more quilt. Maybe for the local NICU?
The best news is, all this sewing, and no shopping!! Not that I need anymore fabric, but that's never stopped me before...
All in all, this has been a great week! My family and property survived all nature threw at us with no problem. We are so very lucky and thankful!
Used this week: 5.5 yards
Used YTD: 28.5 yards
Added this week: 0 yards
Added YTD: 112 yards
Net Used/Added YTD: -83.5 yards.
I still have a long way to go, but at least it is going in the right direction!
To see how everyone else did this week, head on over to Judy's.
**FYI-If anyone is interested, I am hosting my first ever giveaway. It's a pretty good one, so see this post if you're feeling lucky!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
WIP Wednesday
Hello Everyone!
The past couple of days have been beautiful (and shaky!) here in our nation's capital, so I haven't had a great deal of time to sew. We've been too busy going on nature walks and playing at the park to be at home! Never fear, I have accomplished a little for my Kaleidoscope.
Here are the top and bottom sitting patiently waiting for me to baste them. Living in such a small space, I have to move furniture and roll up rugs to baste, so I'm waiting until all the men in my life go to bed tonight to move on to the next step! Then this will move into the to be quilted pile. I like to do my quilting on the weekends when I can have a large chunk of time to sit and quilt. My husband has promised me some mommy time on Saturday, so hopefully I can use that time to sew, sew, sew! I find during the week doesn't work for me. My sons just aren't supportive of my crafty endeavors!
In the meantime, I think I will start cutting out these fabrics for 100 Quilts for Kids. I'm still trying to decide which pattern to use: zig zag or coin quilt? I'll have to decide soon...
Thanks for stopping by! To see what all the other fabulous quilters are working on head over to Lee's.
**FYI- I am hosting my first giveaway! If you are interested see this post.**
The past couple of days have been beautiful (and shaky!) here in our nation's capital, so I haven't had a great deal of time to sew. We've been too busy going on nature walks and playing at the park to be at home! Never fear, I have accomplished a little for my Kaleidoscope.
Here are the top and bottom sitting patiently waiting for me to baste them. Living in such a small space, I have to move furniture and roll up rugs to baste, so I'm waiting until all the men in my life go to bed tonight to move on to the next step! Then this will move into the to be quilted pile. I like to do my quilting on the weekends when I can have a large chunk of time to sit and quilt. My husband has promised me some mommy time on Saturday, so hopefully I can use that time to sew, sew, sew! I find during the week doesn't work for me. My sons just aren't supportive of my crafty endeavors!
In the meantime, I think I will start cutting out these fabrics for 100 Quilts for Kids. I'm still trying to decide which pattern to use: zig zag or coin quilt? I'll have to decide soon...
Thanks for stopping by! To see what all the other fabulous quilters are working on head over to Lee's.
**FYI- I am hosting my first giveaway! If you are interested see this post.**
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Go, Baby, Go and a Giveaway!
Guess what was waiting for me on my porch today?
That's right! While I was on vacation I got an email from the incredible Kate Spain accouncing that I had won the giveaway on her blog! How exciting?!? I never win anything!
I hope my husband will be understanding about our dirty house and take-out meals this week! I can't wait to start playing with it!
I hope I can figure it out!
I am a big believer in paying it forward/karma, so in celebration of my good fortune I am hosting my first ever giveaway!
The funny thing is while I was shopping last week, I bought some of Kate's new line Terrain, and then I went back to the cottage and she had sent the email. I feel like it was meant to be!
Anyway, if you are interested in winning 2 charm packs of Terrain, please leave a comment below. No jumping through hoops, just leave a comment. You could tell me about what you are doing to wrap up the summer or what fabric lines you are most looking forward to this fall. International visitors are welcome to enter the giveaway. I will close the giveaway at midnight next Tuesday, August 30th, and I will randomly pick the winner next Wednesday morning.
Thank you to Accuquilt and Kate Spain!
Now if you will excuse me, I'm going to go play with my new baby!
**Giveaway now closed**
 |
| We really need to paint our porch...yikes! |
I hope my husband will be understanding about our dirty house and take-out meals this week! I can't wait to start playing with it!
I am a big believer in paying it forward/karma, so in celebration of my good fortune I am hosting my first ever giveaway!
The funny thing is while I was shopping last week, I bought some of Kate's new line Terrain, and then I went back to the cottage and she had sent the email. I feel like it was meant to be!
Anyway, if you are interested in winning 2 charm packs of Terrain, please leave a comment below. No jumping through hoops, just leave a comment. You could tell me about what you are doing to wrap up the summer or what fabric lines you are most looking forward to this fall. International visitors are welcome to enter the giveaway. I will close the giveaway at midnight next Tuesday, August 30th, and I will randomly pick the winner next Wednesday morning.
Thank you to Accuquilt and Kate Spain!
Now if you will excuse me, I'm going to go play with my new baby!
**Giveaway now closed**
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