Sew Fun to Quilt!

Just saw this...

2011-09-03T11:41:00.000-06:00

I didn't know Ty Pennington was designing fabric!?
http://typenningtonfabrics.com/

A friend of mine just gave me a huge stack of Quilting magazines she was parting with and one had him on the front. It was a surprise but then I guess not. Very interesting! I know some day i want to, but i'm not in the right season right now. I love how my back ground in graphic design will soon someday help me in my hobby and post sahm life. But that is abotu 20 years away! LOL Until then, I am full time mom and quilter hobbyist! I am amazed at my stash now and most through donations and online giveaway wins!!!! AMEN!

I miss you all very much and will post things as I can. As soon as Blogger makes it easier to post, I'll post more but to login and sit to post take too long. Unless there is a simple way and I dont know yet.

Hope you are all well, I know I even had to unsuncribe from some Quilting email because i just found myself deleting because I have little time to read or even skim!

*hugs*
Jackie

The story of the Butterfly quilt top

2011-06-26T22:56:00.000-06:00

MISSED YOU Quilting World!:
WOAH! It's been way too long, and I have missed you all so much! We are back in Guatemala after our maternity leave, and I am eager to post some quilts!

A photo AND a thousand words (1600+ actually):

I was just going to post a quick photo of the quilt on a frame, but realized I want to tell its story (so far). So sorry it is lacking on the photos. I hope to have more on this one soon. Maybe you will like this story.

The Inspiring quilt:

Creating a block pattern was fun, while I was designing a quilt for my daughter. She likes butterflies and I do too, so I looked up so many patterns online for butterflies. I created what I felt was the most simplified pattern for this Quilting Novice. The Butterflies were made from scrappy material dominant on purple while the background around them was yellow. The blocks are all done, but I don't know what to do for the 'filler' blocks, to make like a checker pattern or random one so the quilt can be at least twin size. In the mean time my friend Patsy showed me how to hand embroider the antennae which I did while I was pregnant with #3.

Focused on MY goal:

My sister gave me a lot of fabric she purchased, probably on sale, knowing I am getting to this "quilting" hobby! Now, as any younger sister does, I must not have listened to her well or did not hear what she said. But she gave me the fabric to do whatever I wanted with it. Well, I wanted to make her daughter a quilt so much that when she gave me this fabric, I thought it was for her daughter's quilt. It was set in my head that it is what it was for and that was that! So I thought it would be great to use the butterfly pattern I made and make her a quilt the same as my daughter. Cousins with similar quilts; one is scrappy and the other more uniform.

Community Effort:

Before the butterfly block was designed, I had joined APQ. Their community area was a great encouragement to me! I had the help of my APQ friends back then to figure out how to make this work. So much experience was shared through the comments I received. After many tries, the layout was final, and I made the top! It was quite a learning experience. It was all new to me from block design, to piecing it, hand embroidery, and then the quilt layout. I just made it all up as I went along and had so much fun along the way.

Saying bye to the top:

The top was done, and I surprised her in 2009 with it. I felt sad handing it off (must be like what it's like when our kids grow up and leave), but that didn't last long when the joy of giving the gift was more felt, than any sadness! I figured she could (have fun and) choose the back material and batting type/thickness and maybe afford to have it professionally quilted. I was sure she'd have many options in the Atlanta area.

The Quilts Journey:

The material came from Atlanta area and traveled with me to Guatemala. The top was cut and pieced in Guatemala. The finished top came back to the Atlanta area. My sister sent the quilt along with a friend who had a friend who quilted in Indiana. Well after a year or so, the quilt top was sent back to my sister. The friend of a friend really didn't have the time to do it, so it sat.

A Life Lesson Learned, Giving gifts:

During all this time, I felt so small, very small. The extreme joy of finishing the largest quilt top by myself was crushed by the thoughts of giving an unfinished gift to someone, especially my sister. This lesson was learned when a friend of mine gave me TWO (not one) complete, finished, custom, scraps albums (you know the fancy scrapbooking kind people drool over). One was for my daughter and one for my son. All I had to do was pick the photo from their 1st yr of life, get it printed and cut it the right shape/size for the areas designated for photos. A LOT of TIME and MONEY went into this. My friend assured me this and aggressively asked me to make sure I finished it (and store the books vertically!). I admit, I tried a few times and even got some photos in, but this was far from my 'hobby' or 'talent'. I LOVED the books and know the LOVE put in them, but felt like an assignment was imposed on me. Sure I want my kids to have these books but this wasn't my project.

Nothing convicted me more than thinking of God's Gift to us... Jesus and eternal life through Him, with Him. He didn't give us an unfinished Gift! Jesus is so complete and given uncondiditonally. My life is now devoted to sharing this with others, and it can be shared even in this application too. Complete Unconditional Gifts to others. nothing else! How awesome is that! You really Feel the LOVE then!

Now to make it, right...

So it was a phone conversation with my sister just a month or so before we were to see her with our new baby #4, that I asked her about her quilt top. She said it was unfinished (where I learned the Indiana trip of the top). I told her first, I felt bad imposing on her a gift that she was to finish. That was a no-no and for her to give it to me to finish when I came through to show off our nee baby.

I'm listening now...

We had a great visit with my sister (March 2011, 2 yrs after the top was finished). Our last night there, I made sure she gave me the quilt top, so I wouldn't forget the next day when we hustle out road tripping with four kids. During this exchange she finally told me as she had my full attention that this was the material I was to do anything I wanted with it. I told her no this was the material she gave me when I told her I was going to make her daughter a quilt. It was not a heated discussion but rather an exchange of revelation for us both! Yes I wanted to make my niece a quilt and yes my sister gave me material but the two had nothing to do with each other. My sister assured me she would have given me her daughter's favorite colors and such. With this known, I immediately said then, "you give me material to make your daughter a quilt, I'll take this one back to finish and keep!" We were both apologetic and in relief but disbelief of what happened. I think too we were mostly relieved of the whole situation.

Greatly accepted Imposition...

After the exchange and revelation of the butterfly quilt's need and purpose, my sister had a need in front of her. She had a quilt top given to her after our paternal grandmother's passing. She showed me the hand pieced Jacob's Ladder quilt done on-point, which desperately needed to be finished (batting/binding). I admit at first, I was thinking I couldn't touch it, she should just have it framed (queen size mind you). But knowing our grandmother... use it, don't let it collect dust. She didn't make it to be put in a closet or to be forgotten. I told her give it to me with the other top and I will finish both with the time I have left in the states.

Twice the fun, and with coupons!

After our road trip, I got to Joann’s with coupons in hand to buy batting, backing, binding, thread, needles, and seam ripper! For both quilt tops! The butterfly quilt was easy since it was going to stay with me, I could decide on the batting, backing, and thread. The other quilt was trickier needing my sister's input. I shopped for backing and found out my niece likes pink and this grandmother's top may got to her some day. The quilt had a small pink flower print I was trying to match somehow. I took a photo of a stripe with my phone and sent to my sister who said, maybe. There was a dark strip that looked like black. I told her no it was a dark chocolate color and went well with the quilt. I didn't want it to look too modern on the back.

Sewing with friends:

A missionary friend (Melissa) I quilted with in Guatemala had recently moved about 5 minutes away from me stateside! (we live two places on the Earth and each are 5 min away!) She had a sewing machine set up, and I asked her to use it. She surprised me in telling me her machine quilting frame was at her house (brought back from GUA just a month earlier). So this inspired her to set the frame up, to re-learn how to do it (she was a year new to machine quilting on a frame like this and had not quilted in 6 months or so, while it was all new to me). This was the guinea pig quit for her getting her frame set back up and for me to learn! Well we agreed to stipple in the colored areas and make loops in the butterfly blocks. The center 9-patch block she did a flower while I did a butterfly. We learned how the batting shrinks more than first expected and warned by the Joann Lady. I was glad to have the squares in the sashing to help transition between the blocks and not stop/start the quilting.

Goal Achieved:

I quilt to relax, have fun, and learn. I did that with this quilt for sure! It has now returned to Guatemala with us. I need to snip all the threads, tie them and figure out where does this quilt go? I know God knows! So far it's been a growing, learning, maturing, and sharing time for me. I'll take that!

If you made it this far, congrats! I hope you liked the story/journey for both the quilt and me. I will post more photos of this quilt as well as post the photos/story of the other quilt!

Until then, sew, smile, and eat chocolate! :)

*hugs*
Jackie

I Miss Quilting!!!

2011-01-25T08:56:00.001-07:00

Oh, I miss Quilting! ...

I miss my sewing machine.
I miss trying to put material together.
I miss cutting material/pieces.
I miss my sewing friends/group in Guatemala.
I even have had little time to keep up with the quilting/sewing blogs I Subscribe to/ Follow, etc!

I know this is temporary, but I still miss it all!

taken Jan 24th 38w3d
baby is lower

Being pregnant with #4 baby and having 3 children 6 yrs old and under takes a lot of time. I love every bit of it and even more since I have the BEST Husband in the world! He's a HUGE help. I credit my great blood pressure and sanity to him with the help of God!

I will say I took a Crochet class at a JoAnn's in December. It has helped me with my need to do hand-work! I haven't done much, and I am not that good, but I am still practicing, when I can. I also had gotten curious about this coupon craze that has seem to come back with out economy struggles. I have found that sitting and clipping coupons with scissors (not a paper cutter) has helped with my want to cut fabric! Hillarious HUH!? It's fun to do and I mainly clip them and send them to friends who really rock at this coupon craze! I keep the ones for the products that we buy, but it's not much. Coupons seem to make me buy things I would not have normally bought anyway! LOL

Anyway. I miss you all and know this is a season, but wanted to post! We're due anytime! Well the date is Feb 4th but we know baby picks the date! :)

*hugs*
Jackie

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Quilting land! I am still here and still gestating! I guess with three small kids and waiting to birth another really takes it all out of you! I even have the BEST supporting husband! I am so tired these final months that I have NOT Sewn and I am so bummed. But we also are in a temporary location and not in our home so things are not 'set up' to sew and there really is no room to do it. So I had to submit to that and move on. Sure I am bummed but I know God has made it an obvious priority to take care of myself and my hubby and kids. Sewing will always be there.

I will say I did get to a JoAnn's and take a crochet class! It was great and I am not the best at it but I am enjoying some kind of craft/hand work! Yeah!

So, since I don't have a show and tell or anything, I will post this GIVEAWAY by "We Love Quilting"... so get on over to: http://welovequilting.com/january-give-a-way-2/ and WIN!!!!

*hugs*
Jackie

I want to sew...

2010-11-17T09:15:00.000-07:00

We transitioned from Guatemala to the states for our maternity leave. We were sick for weeks after the transition (upper respiratory stuff). We are staying with relatives. I do not have a sewing space set up... yet! I want to sew. LOL

I am glad to finally post and 'be back' with you all... It's been too long!!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Still here and a fan of Quilter Blogs

2010-09-24T17:50:00.000-06:00

Hello Quilting World!

Where have I been?
Here, gestating, LOL I am a stay at home mom of three and it's busy! We are also in a transition to go to the states for maternity leave, and I'm both excited and bummed. So it's been an emotional push/pull for me. But mainly, my sewing machine is packed, and I won't see it probably for about a year or so. I will be using my MILs early-80's JCPenney machine while stateside, yeah! So, it's not like I won't be sewing! I NEED Sewing! I discovered it keeps my BP down during the final months of the pregnacy!

I've been watching you, well maybe, not you, but the Quilting posts!
I Love keeping up with the quilting community in many ways online. One fav is through Quilter Blogs. I subscribe to the RSS FEED , and so I don't actually get the Quilter Blogs webpage, just the text and photos from the blog posts. I hit page down and get through them fast.

In May, there was an online quilter festival. I Bookmarked EVERY single entry in my RSS Feed folder. I have not had a chance to visit them much but admit, if it doesn't talk mostly about quilting/sewing, i take it off my list.

Enough Text, where's the Photos, projects, UFOs?
As I say, this is a Quilt Blog, so It needs to talk about Quilting and have PHOTOS! LOL

Tshirt Quilt for Hubby - WIP

I have been purging our whole house and was finally able to get hubby to go through old clothes. I have a stack of Tshirts (see above), I have cut off the sleeves and blank backs in prep for his ongoing Tshirt Quilt.
Have you Made a Tshirt quilt?
I've made several small ones and love doing them!

Denim, something...

Hubby even gave my a stack of old jeans (above and there's more), I have on my to-do list to do a denim quilt/blanket/something. Not too sure what to do. I've collected different patterns and instructions of the year.
Have you made a denim quilt and any pointers????

Other TO-DOs, WIPs/UFOs

In the USA:

I made my sister's daughter a butterfly quilt top (year and a half ago or so). I told her when I get stateside to send it to me (with batting and backing or the money for them) and I will finish it
I told my brother to gather his old Ts and I'll make him a T-quilt
My MIL wants a Music themed quilt, I'm still trying to design in my head!

Anyone have ideas or Music fabric to donate or I'll SWAP!

In GUA:

The polyester quilt is packed away for after I return to GUA after having the baby.
My own T-shirt quilt site awaiting for the purchase of something cool for sashing. I cut these years ago, they are already stablized and ready for assembly!
Two "quick quilts" the baby size of cheater fabric. They never were finished because I didnt have batting.

The Quilting Group
I am still with a quilting group here in Guatemala and it is a huge blessing to be part of it. I have been able to help much when I go but it sure is mental therapy for me!

some photos of show and tell

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: Life happens :)

Maxine Fabric is coming to my house!

2010-08-31T19:39:00.002-06:00

Thanks to this site/blog/shop:

I'm "Lucky Number 13" and WON!!!!
original giveaway post is here

"Maxine" the funny comic is on fabric and coming to my house!

See the post here at "We Love Quilting" of my win! YEAH!

Or go to their Website Here :o)
Or go to their Blog Here :o)
Or go see We Love Quilting on Facebook Here :)

I KEEP telling you... you cannot win if you do not ENTER!

But then to those of you who HAVE entered and NEVER won, DO NOT give up!!!! Pssst I enter a lot of giveaways mainly for fabirc :) There are a number of sites that giveaway "things" daily, weekly, or monthly. Depends on your time and will/effort to try to win! :)

I am SEW excited and Grateful to Chris and Gary Wheeler for this FUN WIN!!!

We Love Quilting is owned by Chris Epps Wheeler & Gary Wheeler, their studio located in Locust Fork, Alabama. They are also online at http://www.chriswheelerquilts.com/

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: I don't believe in 'luck' - used to be very superstitious... it was REALLY bad, but then I met Jesus and believe much more in being blessed and gifted unconditionally through God because HE loves us. So was this win from God? I don't know, just know I am excited to get this Maxine Fabric!!! YEAH!!!!

Comfort Stitching By Aneela Hoey Giveaway!

2010-08-29T15:20:00.002-06:00

See this Great giveaway - just see it ;) heehee

http://comfortstitching.typepad.co.uk/comfortstitching/2010/08/oh-goody-a-giveaway.html

http://comfortstitching.typepad.co.uk/comfortstitching/2010/08/oh-goody-a-giveaway.html

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: yes by posting this i get another entry! Why NOT! You would if you like scraps and have a projects for scrap quilts; aticker tape quilt and a crumb quilt! :)

Pets on Quilts Show: I won a beautiful pattern!

2010-08-24T10:04:00.001-06:00

SewCalGal hosted "Pets on Quilts Show" and there were several winners.

My Window Cats quilt was one of them! YEAH!

This is a list of the Prizes, and if I am reading the results right, I won prize #1!

which is Java House Quilts donated a cute pattern, "Shell we Dance?"

Thank you SewCalGal for hosting and running the show!!!!

My Sister just sent me a photo of Duke & Daisy on their Quilt!!! Aren't they so cute!

*Hugs* - Jackie

Lesson in making a bag for balls

2010-08-18T17:19:00.002-06:00

me (black shirt), mendy,
and my three blessings in Guatemala

So a friend of mine (Mendy in the above photo in the purple shirt and in the below photo) came to Guatemala to share love and Jesus with children at a home they live in because the Gov't sent them there. Her youth group in TN raised $1040 to spend on the kids. They all got a new pair of jeans, a shirt, and a tooth brush and a large set of communal toys!

Mendy shopping with the funds raised by her Youth Group in TN!

We noticed when we put the balls in the cart that they are tricky to transport without a bag. So we look for a laundry bag in laundry products aisle but nothing. So I figured I have some thick donated fabric, that I wasn't sure what I would use it for then excited that this was the solution for both the balls and the fabric!

I set the balls on the fabric to see how much to cut.

So I cut it and then started to sew!

Then Wah-lah.. I made a bag complete with draw string/ribbon.

Sorry it's on the side, but this shows how much EXTRA fabric I have on the top! I guess the bag had width/girth that i didn't account for when estimating the amount of fabric. LOL! Oh well we just hope they have more balls to put in it.

When my friend arrived at the children's home. She said they smiled bug when they saw the big bag. That makes me smile too.

See the bag, then my friend getting the balls out, and the kids with their new stuff!

I am glad to post this today. Because I've had an up and down day, in hormones, emotions, events and such. If you pray please add me to your list for balanced hormones and not getting so 'reactive' to small things. Pray for my family too. Donations werwe tight this month and as it nears the end of the month, we are super challenged in how to streatch what we have. I know we can with the help of God and the Body. So pray! thanks! Ok I posted on my personal blog, now off to post to our ministry site.

*hugs*

Jackie

Disclaimer: I complete 16 weeks prego this week and cannot believe how emotional I am these days. Although today is an excpetion. It's my mother's birthday. She would have been 66, but she's in Heaven hanging with Jesus! :) Miss her like crazy!

Your vote counts, literally

2010-08-14T10:29:00.000-06:00

Vote now: http://quiltinggallery.com/tag/weekly-themed-quilt-contest/

I love them all! I voted for Garden Party. Please put your vote in now!

*hugs*
Jackie

Entry: "Pets on Quilts Show" hosted by SewCalGal

2010-08-12T23:19:00.001-06:00

Window Cats Quilt by Jackie Davis

Close view of the kitties "Duke and Daisy" my sister's cats
Click Photo for a LARGER view!

The front finished.

Click Photo for a LARGER view!

The back finished.

Click Photo for a LARGER view!

I love cats! I made it the quilt because I have desired for over a year to make one. I researched all cat quilts online I could find. This was my favorite cat, Simple yet you could do so much with hand embroidery on the face and cat! My sister Angela has two wonderful (yet aging) cats, Duke and Daisy!

I made up my own pattern and everything as I went along. I am sure this is out there somewhere, but I made it up step by step! Love to learn this craft of Quilting and want to learn all I can and improve in my craft, too! I had an online friend suggest doing the "attic window" method. I researched it too and made up how to do it. It's special because it's the first "large" quilt I have done by myself including the tricky (for me) binding. I still want to quilt in a tail for the cats, but will do it at a future time!

Photos I tried to take of Duke (L) and Daisy (R) at Xmas 2009!

Thank you SewCalGal for hosting this SHOW!

*hugs*
Jackie(at)jackiesue.com

JoJo's Gift Shoppe Sale!

2010-08-11T15:04:00.000-06:00

I'm still around. I hosted a friend for a week here in Guatemala and it was Great! I sewed something and will post more on that later...

I just got this email and wanted to share...

One Dollar Fat Quarters and JoJo's:
http://store.jojosgiftshoppe.com/stores_app/Browse_dept_items.asp?Store_id=782&_id=17&categ_id=72&parent_ids=0

MORE from the email:

This week’s theme is quilts that incorporate embroidery/stitchery and is sponsored
by Jojo’s Quilt and Gift Shoppe who has prepared a fabulous gift basket
for the lucky winner. See more below.
To enter the weekly contest, read the rules and guidelines,
then submit your quilt photo by Thursday evening (EDT). Voting will start on Friday and last
until Sunday night.
1 Package of all of this!
1 "Tidings" book by Art To Heart
1 "The Art of Embroidery" by Mary Engelbreit
1 Natural Bella Solid Layer Cake
1 White Bella Solid Layer Cake
1 Winter Set of 12 LECIEN Cosmo Floss
1 Vintage Set of 12 LECIEN Cosmo Floss
1 Set of 50 Hand Sewing Needles by John James
1 Set of 25 Hand Sewing Needles by John James
1 Nickel Plated Steel Thimble by John James

I'm not able to buy anything right now, trying to get flights home for maternity leave! So go a shop and have fun!!!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by posting this here. I am a Quilter with a Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

Designer :: Amy Schimler :: Animal Party Panel - Welcome to Above All Fabric

2010-08-03T11:02:00.000-06:00

Designer :: Amy Schimler :: Animal Party Panel - Welcome to Above All Fabric

This is so cute!! I am always loving safari animal fabric prints! This one is cute! I was introduced to Amy Schimler today browsing through the fabric on Above All Fabric's site today. Enjoy!

*hugs*
Jackie

Warning: Fabric Shopping online is just as bad as going to the Fabric Shop! LOL

Feature(less) Friday: WIP report instead

2010-07-30T14:22:00.001-06:00

I didn't have anything to FEATURE today. Not that I don't have a resource to share, I just didn't type it up in advance for today. Forgive me. :)

I have had a busy week for sure! I'm a momma of three amazing kids with limitless energy ages 5, 3, and 1. I am also 3 months pregnant and counting. I do not have the option of daycare/school or taking them to a relatives house (i live in Guatemala!). So it's all me... all the time. Now do not get me wrong... I do have an AMAZING Husband who helps as soon as he gets home from work (serving in our ministry). He does the bedtime routine way better and is just a wonderful partner in this whole parenting thing (and an even better godly husband!) ! While he does that, I have been cutting my 4x4s for my 9-patch quilt, more to come on that!

Ok, no one likes a "Quilt Blog" that does not talk about Quilting or without photos more than me, so I have segwayed into quilting with my last sentence. LOL

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Top projects, I am working on:

Cutting any more 4x4s for my Stash 9-patch, then I get the creative part of matching the squares into beautiful 9-patches (if possible, heehee) to sew!

Continue to work on leaders and enders while I do any other sewing! It's fun to use these 2.5 squares as my leaders and enders and before i know it I will have blocks or sashing sewn for a quilt!

Needs (to finish these projects):

Backing for the "Grandma Polyester Quilt" - I got great feed back on batting and backing on this quilt, so I am looking for a lightweight plaid and thin batting for this beauty.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I need a tan or beige for sashing for this Neighborhood Block Swap Quilt.
I don't have any and willing to SWAP Fabric if you want!!!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Batting for several quilts I have backs and fronts ready. Mainly Baby quilts for the baby dedication quilts I make. I do have a few larger sized blankets I want to make with my larger pieces of fabric for charity quilts for my Agatha Victims Project.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The rest, I guess you could call UFOs
since they have sat longer than 6-12 months! heehee

my daughter's butterfly quilt. Those from APQ may remember me making the blocks, I now need to put them together to complete the top!
my husband's t-shirt quilt. I am waiting for him to go through his t-shirts.
my high school track t-shirt quilt. I made two smalled t-quilts for myself and just have this one left. I was last selecting sashing but want to find Fun track-type fabric if possible out there??
Noah's Ark Panel, It's pinned and ready to hand or machine quilt, I don't know which to do... I think Hand is best but I don't know what to do, never done it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Then there are projects I add to my
"Want to do in my lifetime PROJECTS":

Log Cabin Quilt - see this adorable one by logcabinmercantile
Hexagon Quilt - check out the Hexagon Posts on Quilter Blogs
Ticker Tape Quilt - See the tutorial at Sew Mama Sew

I figure If I keep busy with all this, I have less time to think about how fast the kids are growing up and will be out before I know it! Sewing will always be here for me... right!? As long as I have a Project List!

How about you? do you have a list or is sewing therapy to you as it is for me??!!

I am thankful for having 14 Followers! I hope I didn't bore you! *hugs*

*Hugs*

Jackie

Nine Patch Project: Name and Update

2010-07-29T08:40:00.031-06:00

Sew... I started this Nine Patch (9P) project because of a stack of precut blocks I had and thought "I better do something with them NOW or they will just sit and collect dust." We cannot have beautiful fabric sit and collect dust! It calls to be displayed and admired!

We all have these beautiful stashes, and they are folded (maybe) and put on shelves, bins, and such. Also, I have heard people talk about saving a piece of fabric from all the quilts they make and give away. Well to conquer:

Showing Off your stash while also seeing what you have at a glance, and
keeping a piece of fabric from your stash for memento purposes

...WHY NOT Cut a piece of all your fabrics in your stash, NOW! :)

That is what this project has now become, my stash portfolio in 9-Patch form and a memory of all the fabrics (not too sure if I will ever has this amazing stash again). Some may like and some may not, but it's what I have decided on progressively - Heehee!!!

I am cutting a 4x4 out of *almost* EVERYTHING in my stash and making a "MY STASH 9 Patch!"

some Guatemalan Tipico fabric - love it!

I’m having fun and laughing at myself that these squares ended up being the inspiration to the project! and now all my beautiful fabrics have a 4x4 cut out of them!

and if this isn't bad enough... this project is spinning off other projects... with fabric that are more juvenile and kid-fun, I am saving those 4x4s to the side for an I-Spy Quilt.... hilarious huh!?

Have YOU ever had a small thing end up into a BIG project?? surely not. (is any one out there?)

I am excited to see more "followers" I guess i could take myself off the list! LOL sad huh!? oh well. [:o)
*hugs*
Jackie

Beware, your project list can grow out of control before your know it! So can your UFOs and WIPs while you make BOMs and all you want is R&R. LOL KWIM!

Nieghborhood Block Swap Update

2010-07-27T09:20:00.002-06:00

I got my blocks for my fellow Swappers! They are awesome in so many ways! One they looke great and two inspecting them teaches me SO much on how to do this better in the future. The stitches and the thread choice and just over all execution of the applique and block. I have MUCHO to learn. These ladies are tops!

What to do with these? Make a wall hanging? or throw? I would like to make a throw. I feel if I don't make something we'll use, then it will get packed and never seen. Or 'worse case' I could get a 12x 12 scrap book and display them there but how boring!!! heehee

So I am thinking throw and adding filler blocks to help it grow. I was thinking to also have a tan or earth tone sashing. I am using a piece of tan i have for IDEA purposes....

It was very hard to take a photo of this and get it all in, so this is actually two photos put together so you can see it all.

As you can see in the lower right a 'empty' block that I will fill with something. I am still debating on whether i should put a tree or something on the filler blocks. any ideas???
*hugs*
Jackie

Teaching the Trade... sewing

2010-07-25T07:25:00.008-06:00

So glad my daughter loves to sew with me :)

I gave her my scrap bag I was going to use for a Crumb quilt but she needs to practice and I thought it was perfect. She had fun making things up.

she made this 'bracelet' for her baby sister

Any ideas on how to teach the craft of sewing? I don't want her to only think quilting is all she can do with a machine :) Thanks in advance for your ideas!!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Feature Friday: Fat Cat Patterns

2010-07-23T08:00:00.004-06:00

Have you ever been to Fat Cat Patterns? Sindy just knows what she's doing, and you can tell she loves it, too! (imo)

I love this site and mention it off and on. It was recently redone and reorganized, so stop on by and check it out! Enjoy the patterns and ideas. Sindy has Swaps too! If you missed anything you can visit her store and get a CD of all her patterns from the years previous!

My favorite Pages:

All her animal designs are the best too! I can't just pick one!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

My First 9-Patch... block!

2010-07-22T15:16:00.000-06:00

Ok I have quilted off and on since 2006, so I am not *that* experienced, but you would think I have done a 9-patch by now! LOL! Any way, I wanted to show off my first one...

So what inspired this FIRST Nine Patch block? Last Fall, I was searching for fabric and came across... eBay and what all was sold on eBay as far as fabric in all shapes, sizes, and precuts! My favorite Search is Fabric, Free Shipping, 99 cents and under... Click the link and see the list on the Left and make your choices... "100% cotton" or "squares" and so on!! WARNING: Can be very addicting and such! I am NOT responsible for any purchases made! LOL :) I didn't buy anything with shipping fees and never spent more than 4-5 bucks a purchase and I only made 4 purchases! :)

I bought those sets of precuts, why not!? And Actually forgot about them. I looked for them a few months back and couldn't find them. My daughter and I were setting up to sew one day and I found them! YEAH!!!

One pack was a whole bunch of 4" squares of different material. I kept thinking, I cannot wait for a project to come along, what can I do with these, now!? So 9-Patch came to mind.

I may not have put them in the right orientation but that is what is fun to see, test, try, and learn. So go easy on me if you choose to comment below - I DO love comments by the way :)

So, now what? I will post more on my 9-Patch Project later, but for now, you know the inspiration for it! Getting rid of precuts and wanting to learn something NEW!!

Ok here is one more photo of my 9-patches made with that pack!

*hugs*
Jackie

Sewing is FUN! DO it! and Teach someone to!

Update on the "Grandma Polyester Quilt"

2010-07-20T08:32:00.033-06:00

So in the box I got there was this unfinished quilt top from a friend's husband's late grandmother. She said to give it to someone to finish, yada yada. I told her *I* wanted to keep it and finish it! :)

So I got it out and mended the threads that had broken or were on the edge of the fabric and broke free. So right now there are no holes and the ends are reinforced. I even found a large piece of fabric to back it. My daughter and I measured it at roughly 60x90. I will see if my brother and his wife can bring me a nice piece of batting for it. (they are coming to visit me in Sept).

I just love this quilt and am eager to finish it! I think it's screaming for yarn ties. What do you think?

Another Question from this beginning/novice quilter with Zero schooling... I think the pieces are polyester.. they are so like my grandmother's pants! So what would you back it with? What kind of fabric? The piece I have in mind to back it with is similar in texture (so sorry I am not a fabric-ologist).

Enjoy these close ups of the quilt top!!! CLICK and make the LARGER!

Do you have a quilt like this? What would you do to finish it? I miss my APQ pals who had the BEST ideas!!! I am sure you all have great ideas too... My WIPs are always fluid/flexible. I make it all up as I go along! :)

*hugs*
Jackie

Then a Box Came!

2010-07-18T08:57:00.002-06:00

Oh WOW! I was so excited when a box came to me with misc. fabric treasures inside! It was donated for me to use or share. I know I have gone through it all, and I will do just that!

Here are parts of what the sender wrote to me (in black, my comments in red):

Material is sent. 15 lbs and stuffed to the top!! (It was stuffed for sure)

There is a quilt almost done in the bottom of the box of our deceased Grandmother started it many years ago. I am sure it has some stories to tell. Please give it to someone to finish. I pray it will bless them. (I'm going to mend the blocks that are coming undone and finish it myself. I love it! It's all polyester squares! I was thinking yarn ties too. What do you think?)

I sent some pink Precious Moments material that I intended for drapes for my grandaughter and she out grew them quicker than I could make them. Maybe they would fit for your girls?? I had some pieces of Cinderella material and Strawberry shortcake I thought they would enjoy too. (Yes we will ove these and make something. I better learn from you and make things before the grow out of them. I see that happeneing VERY easily, though! Anyone else?)

There are a couple of Disney blanket squares... has pooh and company. Maybe baby blankets?? (Yep we'll make baby blankets and they will be donated as soon as they are done!)

I also sent a large piece of royal blue material with peacock feathers on it. It brought your face to mind. Maybe because you know someone it will bless or maybe you would like it?!?!? I leave all this in your hands because I know you will do what is best. (I love the blue material, it's a flannel, so soft! Thanks for the trust and confidence. I will do my best to make sure everything finds a loving home and does not collect dust!)

I stuck some needles, thread, pins, a measuring curve and stuff in the box, down the sides!! I don't think I could put one more thing in that box!! (you did an amazing job stuffing the box and blessing me and many others with these goodies for sure!)

My Thanks to Tammy for sending this box! It was quite a treasure for me!! And to think, Oct 2008, I had one yard of fabric! Now I have a blessing of a stash that I can bless others with the fabric and/or the quilts I make from it! AMEN!!!

*hugs*

Jackie

thought: Why pay for a therapist when you can spend money on quilting and enjoy your therapy with results you can share!

Feature Friday: The Fabric Bar

2010-07-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

I was first introduced to The Fabric Bar by a Giveaway! (and won!) :-) Amy was so generous with her giveaway, and I still have yet to make something with the precious fabrics that I got to choose! They are too cute to cut! (is that possible, yes).

Since then, I have enjoyed the Blog and the Shop (ok the "sale" rack) LOL! The Fabric Bar is also on Facebook, too.

This is a photo of my recent Purchase with The Fabric Bar... Yummy, huh?!

I do a lot of baby/children charity quilts, so I went for more of the colorful, fun, children prints! Well, the Bot Camp ones I might use to make my son a quilt! :) How fun will that be!? The hearts, well I just like hearts and that fabric was unique to me!

Thank you Fabric Bar!!

ENJOY!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

Giveaway at The Quilting Garden

2010-07-14T22:12:00.000-06:00

Head on over to The Quilting Garden to enter! Kris is going to give away this Moda "Prayer Flag" Charm Pack by April Cornell.

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: If you don't enter, you cannot win! just sayin' :)

A site for ideas and sharing your projects

2010-07-14T17:46:00.000-06:00

I came across this site today, you may or may not know of it... Craftsters.org

This is a link to their forum with the keyword Quilt. See what people have done or are doing.

This one stood out by SHAEBAY:

Enjoy!

Feature Friday: We All Sew

2010-07-09T08:00:00.011-06:00

We All Sew is a great place for various sewing resoureces online (sponsored by Bernina).

See their Facebook Finds
Favorite Sewing Blogs
Favorite photo galleries
Favorite Twitter feeds
Featured videos
and much much more

It's a great place! I subscribe to their RSS Feeds for their posts, but you much go to the site for most of what is listed above! do not miss out, go now and Enjoy!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

Giveaway Winners are Both #2's!!

2010-07-03T09:06:00.000-06:00

Thank you all who entered and visited my blog!

The Animal Print Fabric winner was #2 Deanna! I don't know how to get the Random Number Generator to show here, but it picked #2! Congrats!!!

---------------
NO WAY!! The generator did #2 for the second giveaway too! Congrats Terrymac! She won the Jumper Fabric Panel!

That wasn't too bad for my first giveaway! I know I have been blessed to win online and feel glad to finally share the 'surplus'!

I have emailed both winners - email me your addresses to Jackie(at)jackiesue.com - Thanks! I want to send them Monday!

Thank you all who participated!

You have a good chance to win since I don't have many readers :) So maybe in the fall, I will do another givaway! Yeah!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Feature Friday: Quilter Blogs

2010-07-02T08:00:00.002-06:00

Do you have a lot of quilter blogs bookmarked or subscribed to their feeds or 'follow' them. Well make it easier on yourself and go to Quilter Blogs!

If you have RSS Feeds you follow, include this one or make it your only one. I subscribe to the Quilter Blogs RSS Feeds and it's an easy way to visit hundreds of blogs at once!$

Bonus features of their comprehensive site:

Giveaway Radar
Online Quilt Store Search
Store Locator
You can even submit your blog and have many people who weren't reading you before join in on your fun!

This site is great! Go on over there and Enjoy!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

My Sleepy Owl Studio win is here!

2010-06-30T13:08:00.004-06:00

Ok over a month ago, I won a set of fabric from Sleep Owl Studio, and it is now in my hands!

Look at the presentation! I love it! Ok, maybe, I don't get out much, but I was so excited to realize that the 'bag' was one of the fabrics I won. She added a ribbon and two simple pins to hold it on - So I really got bonus gifts too (heehee)! One can always use ribbon and pins!

When I make a star or two from Fat Cat Patterns' Chocolate Stars from these beautiful fabrics, I will post it for sure!

*hugs*
Jackie

Two Giveaways!!!! hurry!

2010-06-29T18:18:00.000-06:00

Heaven and Nature Jumper Panel Giveaway (currently no entries!)

or

Animal Fabric Giveaway (currently one entry!)

Go and enter!
Deadline July 2!!

*hugs*
Jackie

My win at Sew Journal

2010-06-29T13:19:00.001-06:00

I am finally home and able to receive my prize from Sew Journal! It's fun to open the package and see it in person! Yeah!!! Thank you Munaiba for posting me the win all the way from Australia!

When I make something with it, I will do my best to post it and showcase my win! :) heehee I encourage you all to enter those giveaways if you want to WIN! :)

*hugs*
Jackie

Giveaway: Heaven and Nature Jumper Panel

2010-06-28T22:51:00.000-06:00

Ok Quilt Community!
As you may or may not know, I have been blessed with winning fabric on other quilt blogs so now it is my turn to post a giveaway!

I am giving away this fabric that was donated to me in boxes of other donated fabric. I just do not see me using it anytime soon, and I do NOT like to have things collect dust. I believe things need to have a purpose and be used, not sat around.

To Enter:
So this will be easy... Just leave me a comment and you are entered. I will do the random thingy and send the fabric asap! If you want to be prompted on what to comment... What will you be cooking/baking, for the 4th of July?
Deadline:
IT IS QUICK..... Midnight EST July 2, 2010. I need the winner to send me their info asap, so I can get it in the mail July 5th! I will be traveling again and not able to do mail it anytime after. International entries are welcome!

There you go.... now enter, only if you think you will actually USE IT!!!

Oh and here is a photo of the Printed fabric pattern! Enjoy!

Look even bonus applique included on the panel:

(sorry, I didn't rotate it)

Please only enter if you KNOW you WILL USE it! :) Thank you! If you want to go to my other giveaway, you can... see my previous post.

*hugs*
Jackie

Animal Fabric Giveaway, hurry!

2010-06-28T22:50:00.001-06:00

Ok Quilt Community!

I have been super blessed with winning fabulous fabrics from the Quilting Community out there, so now it's my turn... I am giving away this fabric that was donated to me in boxes of donated fabric. I just do not see me using it anytime soon and I do NOT like to have things collect dust. I believe things need to have a purpose and be used, not sat around.

To Enter:
So this will be easy... Just leave me a comment and you are entered. I will do the random thingy and send the fabric asap! If you want to be prompted on what to comment... we just went to on a road trip with the kids. It was quick but still over 6 hours each way, so tell me about a road trip you've been on... like it? not like it? you do them often? you never want to do them? was it alone or with family or kids!?

Deadline:
Midnight EST July 2, 2010. I need the winner to send me their info asap, so I can get it in the mail July 5th! I will be traveling again and not able to do mail it anytime after. International entries are welcome!

There you go.... now enter, only if you think you will actually USE IT!!!

Oh and here is a photo of the Animal silkscreened fabric... Sorry my photography was NOT the best on these and I have not pressed them...

Please only enter if you KNOW you WILL USE it! :) Thank you! If you want to go to my other giveaway, you can... see the next post!

*hugs*

Jackie

My prize from "Swim, Bike, and Quilt!"... Thanks Kate!

2010-06-28T15:15:00.000-06:00

Do you remember all those Giveaways!!??? I had an 'honorable' mention win on Kate's "Swim, Bike, Quilt!" Blog giveaway! She is too sweet! See my post here about my 'win'.

I wanted to share with you what she was so kind in sending me!

Isn't it beautiful!!! I sure think sew! I like posting this, too, so I can remember who/what/where the fabric came from. When I make something with it, I will know! :) So be encouraged to document (journal your quilts and fabric online!).

*hugs*
Jackie

Feature Friday: Quilting Gallery

2010-06-25T08:00:00.016-06:00

Today, I want to share with you the Quilting Gallery! I subscribe to their blog's RSS Feeds and you will not be wasting time reading them either!

See what they have:

a blog
list of quilting bloggers
a quilt shop locator worldwide!
quilter's fun - swaps, flickr group and more
quilter's forum
quilter's market
you can sign up for the newsletter, advertise there and more!

You can't be bored going to the Quilting Gallery! Stop there and Enjoy!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

Feature Friday: Sew, Mama, Sew!

2010-06-18T08:00:00.001-06:00

In case you don't know, there is an amazing site called Sew, Mama, Sew! and they have a blog!

I highly suggestion you subscribe to their RSS Feeds for the blog at the least.

See their contests and giveaways! Free Fabric Friday (FFF) is amazing! I won in 2009. It was my first ever online WIN! Sew Exciting, I tell ya, but even before the win and beautful yard of fabric that I got to select, I was a FAN!

They have a store! I have shopped there too when they had a special on shipping (flat rate 5 bucks!).

They have a forum, that i admit have little time to participate in, but you may have time and find it helpful!

They are on Twitter, Facebook, and Flickr!

Head on over there at your conveince and enjoy!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Disclaimer: "Feature Friday" is solely my opinion about a webspace online that pertains to the quilting hobby. I am not paid, compensated, or gifted by any of the "Features" posted here. I am a Quilter with an Opinion and Desire to SHARE Resources I use for my hobby :)

Leaders and Enders, a start

2010-06-15T13:37:00.000-06:00

A friend I send a lot of quilt links to came across "Leaders and Enders" and thought it was a great idea. She explained it to me, and I too think it is brilliant!

I went through my scraps and got all my 2-1/2 inch squares. I even cut a few to go with it all.

Using these to lead and end my rows of my box of chocolates quilt top, then I found myself wanting to just sew a whole bunch of them. So it was fun to work on two projects at once. No deadlines, just Sewing Fun!

Then, I gathered my baggies of more smaller scraps and then went to town cutting a ton of squares so I had more of a variety in making 4 squares wide. My thought would be to do 4x4 blocks (16 patch) but then I saw a quilt that had solid fabric blocks with sashing as these smaller colorful blocks! Sew many ideas!

Two squares sewn together:

Four sewn together and pressed!

My selection of 2-1/2 inches x 2-1/2 inches

My work space (corner in our master bedroom, lol)

For now, I keep making these strips of four of similar color, and we'll see where to go from there.

Anyone else do this and have ideas?
Experience to share?

*hugs*
Jackie

I did not get the Memo! Hexagons are Everywhere!!!

2010-06-04T13:40:00.000-06:00

I was going to post about this before, but thought, I would do it later. So, when I saw this post today after another Hexagon post, I just HAD to finally post about not getting the "Hexagons in 2010" memo! LOL!

Diary of a Quilter: In need of a summertime project: Hooked on Hexagons

She also links to this blog in her post: My Three Sons: Hexagons! A beginning

I could link to all the others out there but it would be a HUGE list! Just go to your search engine of choice and type in "Hexagon Quilt" i'm sure you'll get a load of wonderful resources! You can click here for an image search result from Google - just look at the beauties!

Since, I am out of the loop and curious, answer me this...

SO are YOU Making hexagons too?
Are they 'easy', it looks a little involved?
What's the big phase for Hexies for?

I LOVE the shape, don't get me wrong, but it looks hard! All I have done with hexagons is bind a preprinted donated fabric for a baby dedication quilt with hexagons! I loved the challenge and my friends thought i was crazy! it's not perfect but I think it turned out well.

There seems to be another trend out there I was thiking about posting and as soon as I remember what it is, I will post it! LOL!

*HUGS*
Jackie

A quilt idea brewing after so much calamity

2010-06-01T10:53:00.004-06:00

Yes this is my quilt blog and this *is* about quilts...

(the news plus my heart equals an IDEA!)

Post moved to:

http://sharingquilts.blogspot.com/2010/06/campaign-sharing-quilts-with-agatha.html

the IDEA is now being IMPLEMENTED!!!!!

This is SEW EXCITING!!!!

*HUGS*

Jackie

Pat's Giveaway!! HURRY!!!!

2010-05-30T21:21:00.000-06:00

GO NOW: http://quiltingcanbefun.blogspot.com/2010/05/yard-sale-giveaway-extended-one-more.html

SHE says...
EXTRA-EXTRA BONUS PRIZE!!!

EVERYONE'S NAME WILL GO IN FOR THE DRAWING FOR THIS WHO VISITS MY YARD SALE TODAY AND LEAVES A COMMENT.

Satin's, velvet, different lace's, buttons, embroidery floss, etc.

SO HURRY NOW!!!!

Amy's Creative Side: Winners! Blogger's Quilt Festival Spring 2010

2010-05-30T08:28:00.000-06:00

Amy's Creative Side: Winners! Blogger's Quilt Festival Spring 2010

If you entered the Bloggers' Quilt Festival.... go see if you won!!! Amy did an amazing job coordinating and the sponsors were very generous!

*hugs*
Jackie

Day 3 Pat's Yard Sale Giveaway!

2010-05-29T11:40:00.000-06:00

Drool over this or do what I did, GASP! LOL (click to make it larger)

Get on over to Pat's Yard Sale Giveaway! Only one day left!

Day 2 of Pat's "Yard Sale Giveaway!

2010-05-28T19:54:00.000-06:00

get on over to:
http://quiltingcanbefun.blogspot.com/2010/05/yard-sale-giveaway-thursday-thru-sunday_28.html

Pat and her tutorials ARE great!

see her day 2 post!

Pat at Quilting Can Be Fun! is having a Giveaway!

2010-05-27T11:07:00.000-06:00

GO TO: http://quiltingcanbefun.blogspot.com/2010/05/yard-sale-giveaway-thursday-thru-sunday.html

She is calling it a YARD SALE, but it's a FUN WAY to have a Weekend Giveaway!

YARD SALE GIVEAWAY- Thursday thru Sunday Is open to everyone. Winner's announced on Sunday.

Go to the Blog post NOW!

"Box of Chocolates" Quilt WIP

2010-05-24T23:11:00.000-06:00

My current WIP! This pattern is taken from the "Happy Blocks for Heart Strings" Quilts! Aren't they lovely! Well this is a quilt top for the Baby dedication quilt our sewing group makes for a church in Guatemala. What do you honestly think? We use what we have from GENEROUS donations. I just wonder what you think.

We have made others, we really like this simple versitile block! Especially when we have a variety of fabric!

Here are more we recently made for baby dedications...

I also worked with "leaders and enders" while working on this quilt... more on that in my next post!

Blogger's Quilt Festival May 2010 - Cats in the Window Quilt

2010-05-22T14:45:00.001-06:00

The Bloggers Quilt Festival is here, click this link to see all others!

Cats in the Window Quilt by Jackie Davis

Close view of the kitties "Duke and Daisy"

The front finished.

The back finished.

Why you made it...

For this reaction! No, but seriously I made it because I knew I wanted to make a cat quilt of some sort at sometime (soon) in my life. And, who better to make one for than my sister Angela, she has two wonderful (yet aging) cats, Duke and Daisy! I had the inspiration about a year before I made it! I even kept it a secret (that was real hard to do), until I gave it to her for Xmas 2009. The photo left does show her reaction. She also noticed it was her cats almost right away! I loved it! That was an extra bonus to how excited I was to make it and finish it with pride! Funny thing I noticed after completion was the colors Maroon and Gold were her High School colors. Not intentional but cute! I also made it like I do everyting I make ...to challenge myself. I made up my own pattern and everything as I went along. I am sure this is out there somewhere, but I made it up step by step! Love to learn this craft of Quilting and want to learn all I can and improve in my craft, too!

Why it is special to you...

Because I made it for my sister Angela. She's done so much for me over the years, and I know she enjoys hand made things. I move too much to have cats and even though she has had her share of moves, her two cats have been with her through it all. They won't be around forever, but I pray this quilt will be... for my sister that is.

It's also special because it's the first "large" quilt I have done by myself including the tricky (for me) binding. I still want to quilt in a tail for the cats, but will do it at a future time! It is special because I used Guatemalan fabric on the back. It not only matched well, it just reminds us both of the country my family has been called to serve in. My sister has supported us in this too. It's a bummer to be far, but she knows we are following God's Call! This Quilt is very special to me.

What you learned about quilting/yourself while making it...

I found a pattern I liked while searching online for cat quilt images. Then, I used QuiltAssistant to help me make my own size and custom pattern!
Not a fan of the "fold forward binding" (what's the real name?), in doing it that is. I think it looks beautiful... this being my first, by myself, and I was SEW Excited it came out well!!! YEAH!!! I am so glad to practice!!!
I knew I wanted to make gray and multi-brown cats. Someone on APQ Blog suggested "attic windows". After looking it up online, I agreed. So, I worked hard on selecting colors to help with the cats. It wasn't easy, but it's come together nicely, in my opinion. The side color, I wanted something bright. The bottom color, I wanted something darker for a better 'window' effect. My mother in law and I went to the open market in Guatemala. I saw a local (Guatemalan) 'tipico' material, that I thought might go. Came home, looked, and was shocked! I think it goes great!
I wanted the "attic Window" efect to be easy, so I found this Tutorial on Easy Attic Windows. On my solid yellow part I didn't cut it because it will be noticed. I just sewed a square on the yellow strip at a diaganol and then diagnoal sew/cut it!
Then, I needed to decide, face or not? So I searched online... I think face = Yes! I found this image, and I want to make sure the person gets credit for it. I did not design it.
I learned that with Quilting the solutions are endless and up to you.
I learned about myself, do not let a technique or look intimidate you.... it's just material and thread :) and let you imagintion run and do it! Have FUN have FUN have Fun!
I learned from seeing others inthe festival, I need to get more creative with my finished quilt photos! LOL Drape it over a chair, fence, tree or something!

Photos I tried to take of Duke and Daisy at Xmas 2009!

Thank you for looking at my Bloggers Quilt Festival entry. Click this link to see all others!

Be kind and leave me a comment, if you have the time. *hugs* Jackie

Cat Quilt Ideas

2010-05-22T13:20:00.003-06:00

I thought I would share with you, my research findings for a Cat Quilt! I did this research some time ago but really wanted to post it! AMAZING stuff…. #13 is a simple "ONE cat quilt" – neat!

And more, of course, I love them all.
*HUGS*
Love,
Jackie
---------------------------------------------

Lying down cat: http://www.bluebirdgardens.com/graphics/Quilts/newsleepcatquilt1.jpg , see more on this page in many colors, scroll to see: http://www.bluebirdgardens.com/?realm=Home&page=Store+Category&category=Lap+Quilts&start=20
Laying/Sitting down cat tutorial. http://www.sewvac1.com/Library/catquilt.htm
Cat with it's tail up: http://users.erols.com/thestewarts/images/CatQuiltSm.jpg
These are standing with a tail and simple: http://www.thelindsleys.net/2005_quilts/Cat%20quilts.jpg
Alley Cats, not a whole body: http://www.azurehenfruit.com/assets/images/2005_Alley_Cat_s_quilt_front_November__2005.jpg
This one has lying down and standing but tails look appliqued: http://www.quiltbus.com/images/cats-in-cabin.jpg
These are like the other lying down cats, but taller: http://www.crazydoglady.com/images/9-cat.jpg
These are interesting sitting cats: http://www.crazydoglady.com/images/thread-cats.jpg
cat down with arched back and tail: http://image16.webshots.com/17/3/33/52/183133352SilZKf_ph.jpg
side view cat: http://www.wondercutruler.com/cat2.jpg
Cat standing with tail and front paws: http://image09.webshots.com/9/0/52/79/113705279LByHft_fs.jpg
Cat side view, looking at you with tail and two toned body: http://www.oldmadequilts.com/products/Cat_on_my_quilt_lg.jpg
One BIG CAT, knock yourself out with this cool pattern: http://image42.webshots.com/42/2/81/86/374128186bytXeI_ph.jpg
I call these kitten with stars: http://www.quilters-connection.com/class-pics/my-cats-are-stars.jpg
Walking cats full of color: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3639/3573783640_b7e8c7c998.jpg
Cat's Life: two in here have full bodies; http://www.quiltbus.com/images/Cats-life.jpg
Tassellating Pattern, amazing: http://image03.webshots.com/3/8/97/80/20289780zNJdpgRIhi_ph.jpg and a different one: http://www.mccallsquilting.com/blogs/files/2009/08/kitty-memories-1a-300x290.jpg
Various Pieced Bodies here: see the cat with the BIG EYES: http://image26.webshots.com/27/1/43/37/277614337kdEMAr_ph.jpg
Two toned standing cat with face defined chin: http://api.ning.com/files/FeiiRoWJgkwiw3Sz36cmNCiuDAEsYqZeU0x8ESArqYDHOdSzQYNKUwds3bpaZqJxLJOekuzy2-IoyR1z04X3gII6C2pSUtNJ/Siamese.jpg
Big Fat Cat, what else could I call it: http://image03.webshots.com/3/3/25/68/2068325680075370807evdFZF_fs.jpg

(FYI: results from Google Image search for the words "cat quilt" viewing pages 1 thru 20)

IDEA: You can always change the head from square to the one with the diagonals for chin by sewing squares in the lower corners at a diagonal.
----------------------------------

This post is not complete unless I show you an e-Book I bought called "Cat's Meow" by Jante Kime purchased and downloaded with ease from the Martingale & Company home of That Patchwork Place. no commission or being paid to promote this.. i just bought it and liked it and wanted to share it with you!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*HUGS*

Jackie (at)jackiesue.com

SMS Giveaway Update: Honorable Mention, literally

2010-05-21T21:37:00.001-06:00

This is not a win, but I feel appreciated for making sure that every entry I posted was custom and as original as I could over three days! LOL!

Kate at Swim, Bike, Quilt said, "There were a ton of amusing comments, but this was my favorite. It will give me an excuse to rest after my triathlon is done: Jackie Davis said... Isn't quilting it's own triathlon? Buy Fabric, Cut Fabric, Sew Fabric!!! :) "

Thanks Kate and Congrats Claudia for winning over at Swim, Bike, and Quilt! I think many of us agree that our community ROCKS!!! Go to her blog and cheer here on, she's going to do a (real) triathlon!!

right now I am doing this triathlon:

BUY/Win/Recieve:

CUT:

SEW:

*HUGS*

Jackie

SMS Giveaway Update: We all Won at Embroidery-Methods.com

2010-05-21T15:09:00.000-06:00

You Won... If you entered Embroidery-Methods.com's Embroidery Poetry Contest for the SMS Giveaway!!! Cool Huh! All 12 of us poets won! WOOHOO! Thank you AMY!!

Amy said, "Wow, the 12 poems submitted are fabulous! Some are touching, some make me smile -- They're all all great! I'm feeling generous, so guess what? You're all winners!"

Isn't that great! I tell my sewing friends, "if you don't Play, you can't Win!" So very true!

Check out her ALC Unlimited Designs and her Embroidery Blog

I chose this one for my prize! Yeah!!!

Thanks to the SMS Giveaway I have 5 followers!

2010-05-21T09:56:00.001-06:00

Ok one is ME but hey it's the equivelant to Facebook friends or Twitter followers or being "liked" at Facebook, LOL! Anyway before SMS Giveaways I had two, one is me, and now I have five!

I thought this would be a funny thing to post, while I still write up my post for the Bloggers Festival!!!!

ok I need a photo...

Our view in Guatemala of Volcano Agua!

SMS Giveaway Update: Twice Blessed...

2010-05-21T09:50:00.000-06:00

Yes, can you believe it,

I won at SewJournal!

Here is the Original Giveaway page. Here was my comment.

And Keep Checking

Sew Journal For ANOTHER Giveaway Soon!!

SMS Giveaway Update: I WON at Sleep Owl Studio!!!

2010-05-20T20:02:00.000-06:00

Thank you Sandie at Sleepy Owl Studio!

Don't you just love technology! Sandie at Sleepy Owl Studio commented on my previous 'loser' post that I won! and I am glad she did because her email to me when to my Junk Mail ! Oh No! that would have been Bad! Anyway! I am SEW Excited! I Won her beutiful fabric above and told her I wanted to try to make a star From Fat Cat Patterns the Chocolate Stars BOM. I know these are not 'chocolate' colors but good ones to substitue for IMO! We'll see :) If you want to know... Yes I did enter in Three ways allowed on her Giveaway! One - Two - Three

*hugs*
Jackie

SMS Giveaway Update... None yet, and that is OK!

2010-05-20T19:08:00.000-06:00

So has everyone recovered from entering the giveaways! Now the WORK is on the giveaway Hosts!! I looked at 12 of the giveaways I enterd and I Congradulate the OTHER winners, LOL! I had fun, it's ok *if* I don't win but I have about 80 or 90 more to go! LOL!!!

Thank you Sew Mama Sew and the Giveaway Hosts!

*hugs*
Jackie

SMS May Giveaway... I am Done!

2010-05-20T00:12:00.000-06:00

I did it! Not too sure I'll ever do that again but I had to do it once!!!!

I'm DONE - it's midnight May 19/20, and I am done! LOL!
I did every giveaway with a few I didn't because I dont do patterns, wool, or yarn at:
http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=7406

WHEW! off to bed! Thank you Sew Mama Sew, how on earth did you coordinate and organize that so well... types of giveaways to shiping option groups!!! WOW

Thank you all Giveaway HOSTS!!! Amazing!!!! WHEW! I hope to do it sometime as a host and limited participant! LOL
There is still a LITTLE bit of time!!!

*hugs* Jackie

Day 3: SMS Giveaway! Made it, through one list, LOL

2010-05-19T20:02:00.002-06:00

YEAH! I made it through those who will ship internationally! Now on to the NON-Intl shippers! WooHoo I hope to win something!

*hugs*
Jackie

That Crazy Quilty Girl - Giveaway!

2010-05-19T17:48:00.001-06:00

That Crazy Quilty Girl - Giveaway!

http://thatcrazyquiltygirl.blogspot.com/

HURRY Giveaway!

She's going to have another one in a few days too!!!

But do NOT miss this one!

Nearing the finish line!

2010-05-19T17:17:00.002-06:00

I'm on the last ten of the Int'l shipping giveaways and then ther are about 25 of domestic, not all US... so I am getting there!!! LOL! Anyone else???

*hugs*
Jackie

Sweet Pea Fabrics Giveaway- Hurry!!

2010-05-19T16:44:00.000-06:00

Sweet Pea Fabrics Giveaway- Hurry!!

http://ilovetoeatchocolate.blogspot.com/

Something Old, Something New has a Giveaway!!!

2010-05-19T15:36:00.000-06:00

Something Old, Something New has a Giveaway!!!

Hurry time is running out!!! Isn't is gorgeous! :)

http://katiejpbishop.blogspot.com/2010/05/sew-mama-sew-giveaway-day.html

Sleep Owl Studio Giveaway

2010-05-19T15:02:00.000-06:00

Sleep Owl Studio Giveaway

Go here for a Giveaway: http://sleepyowlstudio.wordpress.com/

HURRY!!

Giveaway Alert! at "Sew I was Thinking..."

2010-05-19T12:57:00.000-06:00

HURRY! to
"Sew I was Thinking..."

for a fabulous Giveaway!

The Sew Convert's Giveaway

2010-05-19T09:54:00.000-06:00

The Sew Convert's Giveaway

as part of the Sew Mama Sew's Giveraway May, The Sew Convert has a Giveaway!

Hurry!!!

SMS May Giveaway! One Day left!

2010-05-19T09:25:00.000-06:00

I am just finished with A thru Q!!! And less than one day left!!!
http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=7406

I would have loved to participate but what I have to giveaway is not with me right now! LOL! sp stay tuned to the end of June for a giveaway from me.. :) Until then.... Am I the ONLY person going to ALL the links????

*hugs* Jackie

Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day in May!

2010-05-18T16:12:00.000-06:00

http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=7406

Yesterday I worked through the A's to the K's!
Whew, now hopefully I can get from L to Z! And that is only in Sewing stuff with Int'l Ship! LOL!!! I would use my stateside addy though. Hurry you have till the 20th on most.

SEW FUN!!!

*hugs*
Jackie

Judy's Fabric Addiction Giveaway!!

2010-05-17T20:40:00.000-06:00

Judy's Fabric Addiction is having a Giveaway!!
as part of Sew Mama Sew's May Giveaway!

Go here:

http://judy-judysfabricaddiction.blogspot.com/2010/05/may-give-away-prizes-im-giving-away.html

Do it! :)

Fat Connection's Giveaway!

2010-05-17T16:30:00.000-06:00

Fat Connection's Giveaway!
...deadline soon, hurry!

http://fat-connection.blogspot.com/2010/05/sms-may-giveaway-day.html

DC's Creations Giveaway!

2010-05-17T13:12:00.000-06:00

NOT that I want any competition, but look at this Giveaway!!!

http://www.donnacarolscreations.blogspot.com/

*hugs*
Jackie

Giveaway Day ~ Sewing + Knitting Supplies/Materials (SMS)

2010-05-17T08:43:00.000-06:00

Sew Mama Sew is having their Giveaway Day!!
Go here: http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=7406
this is the link for: Sewing + Knitting Supplies/Materials

go to: http://sewmamasew.com/blog2 for the others!

So what is it? Click the link and see the list and all those links ara a Giveaway! YES!! Hurry! They end in a few days!

ok, off to enter in myself!! heehee

*hugs*
Jackie

Waiting for the blocks: Neighborhood Block Swap

2010-05-12T16:09:00.000-06:00

One of my 9 blocks made, they were not the same :)

I feel like I am waiting for the stork as I wait for my fellow Neighborhood Block Swap blocks! This is SEW exciting to see them all together. I am excited. I will have to wait though because they will go to my in-laws and then either we'll see them we get there in a month and a half or when my brother comes here in a few weeks, he canbring them. We'll see! Just be excited with me! I was so glad to enter the swap!

*hugs*
Jackie

A giveaway over at Dotty Jane, HURRY!

2010-05-05T10:01:00.000-06:00

Go to:
http://dottyjanedesigns.blogspot.com/2010/05/high-water-and-giveaway.html

for her 100th Post Giveaway! I did!!!
*hugs*
Jackie

Ticker Tape Quilts...Great Scrap Buster

2010-05-04T09:05:00.005-06:00

Have you ever heard of a Ticker Tape quilt?
Me either? Or well I have not!

Photo: Ticker Tape Placemats from Brown Dirt Cottage

Looked it up (Image search), and love it, you may not, but I do… basically scraps sewn on as rough edge appliqué. I think in most or all cases, it’s sewn all the way through the layers… so it’s quilted too. Not bad if the quilt stays small.

I guess if you didn’t like the rough edge so much you can FUSE them (wunder under) or use fray stop, someone got me this, and I have not used it, yet.

Here are some links, ENJOY!

Step-by-step PHOTO How TO: http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=2311
This one is cute! http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/2009/09/ticker-tape.html
click the photo to enlarge: http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2010/05/02/ticker-tape-quilt/
ticker tape color wheel: http://www.flickr.com/photos/32350579@N02/4342142316/
Flickr Group of Ticker Tapes: http://www.flickr.com/groups/1347527@N21/
this one has a dark background: http://monkeydogquilts.com/?p=450
Simple Sandy’s Ticker Tape: http://sewingsandy.blogspot.com/2010/03/ticker-tape-quilt.html
Tuesday’s Designs on Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/listing/42451330/baby-scrap-ticker-tape-quilt-soft-and
Baumcat’s Ticket Tape Quilt not so random and beautiful: http://baumcat.blogspot.com/2010/02/ticker-tape-quilt.html
Quilty Girl 1981: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iwpp8diXcEM/S7ZjI8xshCI/AAAAAAAABcM/IqwkF1ulXjs/s400/DSCN8377.jpg
Peggi’s Mini Ticker Tape: http://www.seamstobeyouandme.com/wordpress/2009/10/avoidance-projects/

Ok, you get the idea and can search for "Ticker Tape Quilt" yourself too!

It could be one of those quilts you make using a sample of material from all your other quilts. I am adding it to my “SOME DAY” list already! Great Scrap/Stash Buster!

Blessings,

Jackie

Yeah, it is MAY!

2010-05-03T16:01:00.000-06:00

I love May! Why? Because my birthday is May 9th! I just LOVE MAY! My daughter will turn one on May 14th! it's just the best month to have a birthday!

Also go to Quilter Blogs to see SEW MANY Blogs that other Quilters do! I signed up and they confirmed me but I don't see mine listed on their list. Bummer, maybe I'm in a queue or something? anyway it doesn't stop me from promoting them. I LOVE Quilter Blogs!!

Quilter Blogs & Store Search

So Have a SUPER Month of MAY! And if you have a birthday in May, HAPPY Birthday!!!!!
*hugs*
Jackie

Latest Projects... now

2010-04-30T22:25:00.001-06:00

Ok I got my first Block Swap done, although I am not trying to find a way to get them stateside for safe mailing. yes and to save money too! Now what do I have to do?

Where do I start?

My daughter's Butterfly Quilt is a UFO
My husband's t-shirt quilt is a UFO
My track t-shirt quilt is ... welll you get the idea
My mother-in-law's Quilts; one is made from various book bags (she's a teacher and has loads) and a musical one for her anniversary in Nov. she game me a deadline ;) I love her so!
Two "quick quilts" (aka: cheater cloths) to be quilted and bound
I do want to do 5 more house blocks for my father, siblings and myself for framing.
and a load of ides in my head!

This is my track t-shirt quilt - in progress... I have had these fused with stabilized and cut since 2005!

I will ask.. has anyone seen any of the following fabrics, I would like to use for sashing in some of my above projects. Send links or info please!:

"Track & Field" fabric. It is for my highschool track t-shirt quilt (see above). I have searched on line for years and found only one thing on eBay, and it was way over my budget. If you know of any 'type' fabric, please let me know.
Generic Football (my husband was in football most of his life) fabric for my husband's t-shirt quilt.
Music fabric - notes, sheets of music, instruments, etc
Teacher type fabric - apples, or something

That's all I can think of tonight!

What are your top UFO's?

*hugs*
Jackie

Neighborhood Block Swap Finished

2010-04-28T19:55:00.000-06:00

I am done with my neighborhood blocks for the swap. Now to get them stateside ASAP!

It is my first swap! I hope the group goes easy on me. This was my first time doing fused applique. My machine had 8 stitches. I am limited on thread so I just used one color. Oh I hope they extend grace to me and forgive me for any short comings.

I love them and had fun and learned a LOT! Did I mention I learned a Lot? ;) in a very good way, too!

*hugs*
Jackie

here they are, please go easy on me... (i have 3 kids 5, 3, and almost 1!!) lol

Future in sewing?

2010-04-27T12:03:00.002-06:00

Dye your own thread color as you sew?? And, I was just talking to my husband about this, this past weekend... REVERSE ON THE PEDAL!!!! Woohoo!! I may be the only one that stitches a lot on reverse and wishes the reverse was on the pedal. heehee

This project is called “Leitfaden” and I want one.

it's a concept design and not in production (yet) that I know of.

See this: http://www.yankodesign.com/2010/04/20/sew-color-what/

and more here: http://www.monikajakubek.de/index.php?/naehmaschine7/

*hugs*
Jackie

Quilt Dad, 2nd Blogiversary Giveaway!

2010-04-25T05:00:00.015-06:00

This Giveaway is amazing. Look at all that was donated to give away! Makes ya drool!

I think I am comment 631! I hope the random generator picks me!!!!! :)

All you have to do is say HI! Deadline is midnight EST! Hurry!

*hugs*
Jackie

Neighborhood Block Swap Progress: Applique Fused!

2010-04-24T08:22:00.017-06:00

Yeah! I have my 9 blockes ironed with the fused applique - with Wunder Under! I have never done it before and found it easy to use. I just found it challenging on what fabric to pick for what parts with selections from my mostly donaated and won stash. It's great to have selections! (Just a year and a half ago, I might have had 2 yrds of 3 different fabrics! heehee) Praise God for generous Quilt/Sewing community! You all rock! ;-)

So, here are my 9 BEFORE being sewn as rough edge applique. Go EASY on me.. I am still learning... still learning! Self taught and learngin as I go along. So glad the ladies in my swap are generous to have me participate. Now to sew and get these in the mail asap!

*hugs*

Jackie

the house is so muted in color because i wanted to make it close to the real house... next time, i won't do that... the other blocks in the swap are so colorful! Lessons learned! :)

------------------------------------------------------------------------

The photo of the real house. Then using QuiltAssistant, I made the 'pieces'.

I, then, cut out construction paper to get an idea of my applique.

My top 3 favorite Fabric Designers

2010-04-23T11:47:00.004-06:00

As I try my best to learn more about this industry of sewing, I think I am slowly getting the hang of things! I wanted to share my favorite Fabric Designers.

In NO particular order.

Kim Schaefer of Little Quilts Company with Andover Fabrics
Paula Prass with Michael Miller fabrics and her blog
Valori Wells see her designs and her blog

Why do I love these designers? I feel they design with a purpose and not just to get fabric out. That what you see, each element, is in its place and not just tossed on. I believe many designers are good at this, but these three stand out for me. Their colors are what I like too. Maybe, it could just be my particular “flavor” right now too. I know as our lives change and grow, so do our preferences, and that is ok!

It’s like women and shoes, I try not to really get “into” fabric too much or I know I’ll be a fabric hoarder! Heehee! Instead, I have fabric through donations, giveaways, and a few purchases, with a purpose; to make a quilt and give it to someone, so they can be wrapped in love.

I thanks these ladies and all fabric designers for their work! As a former career graphic designer, I just enjoy looking at all the awesome work! Fabric designs and quilt patterns!

*hugs*

Jackie Sue

BA in Visual Communications Design

______________________________

A 70's skirt to quilt

2010-04-22T00:06:00.003-06:00

My project in March/April 2009:

My Mother-in-Law explained... In the 70's quilted skirts were "in" and this was a kit she bought. She just had to sew up the sides for her size and put in the elastic waist band and sew it up. It was already pieced.

It is amazing! She said I could do anything with it. This is what I did... I un sewed the skirt and now have two large pieces. I sewed them together and made a blanket for the living room for her. I found backing large enought in the donation stash from a guild in Texas! YEAH! (didn't have to spend money). This was a fun project. I also got to surface her JC Penney machine from the 1980's that hadn't been used maybe since the 90's and used it entirely for this project...See below, the birthing of the quilth, the quilt was just backing and front and still machine quilted. This was an exciting project!

Do you know or remember this kit?

*hugs*

Jackie

Butterfly with points, quilt

2010-04-19T23:43:00.018-06:00

Many boxes of fabric and unfinished quilts were donated to me (Oct 2008), and the quilt group I am in (we do charity quilts, primarily baby dedication quilts). This quilt top was sent all done except no backing and being quilted. So we married it with some rare large sized fabric (we rarely have large pieces but others in the group got donations too).

I sewed on the backing, birthed it and maching quilted a diagonal. The quilt top came with a matching Pillow, with I also sewed a back to and left a hole to fill with batting. The embroidered butterfly was already done. I do not know who did this, but we thank who ever did. It is now ready for someone who needs a blanket and this one is real special!

*hugs*

Jackie

Flat Felt Food

2010-04-17T11:06:00.024-06:00

About Thanksgiving time, my kids needed/wanted some toys and quick! I had every intension to make felt food that was 3-D but never got there because they kids were so excited about what i was cutting out, so it's flat and they like it! I still search and drool over other felt food projects i see online. Some day, when I have 'free-time' with my 5 yr, 3yr, and almost 1yr old - yeah right !

enjoy!

hamburger bun and hamburger pattie

lettuce and tomato

onion and pickles

mustard/ketchup and slice of cheese

hamburger from top and side

hamburger, celery stick, pancake with butter, orange (my son's idea), fries, and a carrot

Since this, we've made grapes bunch, strawberries, blueberries, mashed potatoes with butter and fried eggs... endless ideas! Flat Felt Food, LOL! :)

*hugs*

Jackie

Meow Kitty Kitty Quilt

2010-04-15T22:18:00.019-06:00

I had a blast making this quilt for my sister. I gave it to her for Christmas 2009. I made up the pattern, and with the ideas from my APQ friends, I did the Attic Window effect and just loved how it came out.

If you look close I did many tecniques on my own. The corner of the attice window is a triangle sewn to the yellow rectangle. Probably not proper tecniques used, but they worked for me! The only thing I didn't get done was I sew wanted to quilt in the tail and figure I can do that some day. I was just so eager to get it to her for Christmas when we were in town to visit!

Oh, the cats represent her two cats "Duke and Daisy". Then I realized afterward, it's her highschool colors. heehee not onb purpose for sure.

Sew cute!

The 'plaid' looking fabric is "tipico" fabric from Guatemala. It is the entire Backing of this quilt, too.

*hugs*

Jackie

No Triangle Zig Zag Quilt

2010-04-13T22:12:00.014-06:00

I made this quilt in 2009 April to November:

Using these instructions: http://beesquarefabrics.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-make-zig-zag-quilt-without.html

I was glad to make it and had some fun. Just putting the squares together ...got to me after a while. SO if i make it again, I would at least double the size of the blocks! :)

*hugs*

Jackie

Paula Prass Giveaway!

2010-04-13T17:43:00.001-06:00

Go see what she’s up to!!!

http://paulaprass.blogspot.com/2010/04/heavenly-giveaway.html

*hugs*

jackie

My second skirt, tiered ruffled beauty!

2010-04-11T17:51:00.005-06:00

This is the second skirt I made my daughter. I just love how easy the instructions at Chica and Jo are even though I have change them to my skill/method.

This one was made with fabric I won from Paula Prass when she kindly had an online giveaway in 2009. It was just screaming, "make a skirt out of me!" Wasn't it? Too darling! See the links here for more info:

· Paula Prass Blog

· Paula Prass Website

· The Fabric from Michael Miller Fabrics “Flight of Fantasy” collection

And you can't resist but to twirl in the skirt too! Love the photo!

Enjoy!!! And I want to thank those who are offering me other children’s clothes patterns, but no thank you. J

Ok, I am going to get back to my blocks. I feel like I have Block swap Block! I'm not liking what I picked out and the other blocks being submitted are AMAZING! The skill level is so advanced! I'm still very beginner to maybe intermediate. Oh we'll see. :)

*HUGS*

Jackie

Quilt top: Happy Blocks: Orange, Red, Green...

2010-04-10T13:58:00.004-06:00

Our sewing group is women from different ministries that get together to make quilts for a church that was planted here 15 years ago. The quilts are given to the Baby Dedications. We can go from having none to having 8 or so dedications on a Sunday. We work from donated Everything... material, batting, thread, yard, and even sewing machines - we work with what we got and make something.

We even teach locals how to quilt from fabric selection, cutting, piecing, binding, and quilting. It's great for us all. We meet when we are all able too, otherwise we like to try to meet ever two weeks or so. We're just glad for the time we do get to meet and make these precious quilts that represent the covering of the Church in the baby dedication ceremony.

We came across a pattern we saw online (http://www.maryquilts.com/happy-blocks-for-heartstrings/). We are sure it has other names but the place we got it from called it the "Happy Block" - we like it!

Enjoy!
*hugs*
Jackie

She likes the Tiered Ruffled Skirt

2010-04-10T13:31:00.007-06:00

This morning, I gave my daughter the skirt I made for her. My first skirt made (other than 8^th grade home ec class) and her first long skirt! We’re a happy home today! J

Enjoy!

Link to the pattern: http://www.chicaandjo.com/2009/05/28/sew-a-tiered-ruffled-skirt/

We will make another one and maybe one with more tiers soon!

I am adding that I bought the fabric with Christmas gift money (to buy myself whatever I wanted! and I chose fabric. I've never bought "good quality" fabric! only the $1/yd or less!) from SEW MAMA SEW . it is the Floral Sky collection their photo of the fabric is darker in pink, not sure why. But I did but the blue, purple, and green too. They are GREAT QUALITY and versitile!

*HUGS*

Jackie

I made a Tiered Skirt!

2010-04-10T00:10:00.007-06:00

I found this pattern at “Chica and Jo” about 6 months ago or so and thought, “this is a great skirt to make someday”. With the tutorial including photos and thorough instructions, I thought, I should be able to do this. I like to be challenged. The my daughter about 2 weeks ago picked out her fabric from my stash and said how many tiers and the length. So I did it! In about 2 hours. Done. She’s asleep now and doesn’t know I did it. I cannot wait to surprise her in the morning!

I am adding that I bought the fabric with Christmas gift money (to buy myself whatever I wanted! and I chose fabric. I've never bought "good quality" fabric! only the $1/yd or less!) from SEW MAMA SEW . it is the Floral Sky collection their photo of the fabric is darker in pink, not sure why. But I did but the blue, purple, and green too. They are GREAT QUALITY and versitile!

Oh, I know I have blocks to do for my block swap, but I SEW wanted to make this. My daughter doesn't have a long skirts, this will be her first! Sew exciting! She also has designed one with more colorful tier, she just needs to finish picking out her fabric sometime. No worries, I'll post it when we get there

PS: Like cooking recipes, I did make a few changes to the instructions for my (lack of) skill/needs.

Neighborhood Block Swap

2010-04-04T16:33:00.001-06:00

I am participating in my FIRST Swap!!!.. a Neighborhood Block Swap and way behind in my progress. Well, not really but for my own pace, I wanted to be farther by now. :( I am hoping to really get the applique put on, so I can enjoy the embelishments! I am doing a house.

This is a photo of the house i grew up in and my construction paper cut outs to see what the applique would be like.

This is the backgrounds I made. I am thinking the last ones (also shown under my construction paper test applique) are what I want to use, the Sky looks like clouds and the 'grass' has cute small flowers in it.
So far this is my progress in addition to marking up my wunder under for fusing my applique.
We'll see how it goes!
*hugs*
Jackie