Karen South's Crazy Quilting World

2010-07-22T05:50:00.000-04:00

I worked on a few of my other blocks while in St. Louis. I really miss stitching when I don't do it for a while.

I think I may finish these if I keep with it!

2010-07-21T05:43:00.003-04:00

The last four blocks ... I really like the look and feel of these blocks. I had to shop for more threads while in St Louis because the reds I had were not the right shade. The red in the blocks have more 'blue' in them. Always looking for an excuse to shop.

2010-07-19T05:33:00.000-04:00

Lots to do on my blocks so I better get to work. My goal is to complete by Christmas 2010. Six blocks have a Santa center and six blocks don't have a Santa in the center.

Christmas Quilt Blocks

2010-07-18T05:26:00.002-04:00

I started piecing 12 blocks for my Christmas project a few months ago. I finished piecing them and now I'm ready to embellish the blocks. I got started working the pile - the process of doing a little work on each block - at the St. Louis retreat. It doesn't look like I got very far with my embellishing but I did get a lot of seams started.

St. Louis 2010

2010-07-17T18:03:00.001-04:00

Kate checking out one of the wedding dresses Mary Anne brought to share.

Mary Anne and Martha - all packed up on the last day getting in one more conversation.

Lisa shows Yvonne a tatting tip.

Mona took a look at the wedding dresses. She had a bride in mind who might just wear it in her wedding. Others of us had the vision of cutting them up and using them in a project.

St. Louis 2010

2010-07-17T17:08:00.002-04:00

I thought I'd post a few pics from our St. Louis retreat. I find it hard to believe it has only been 5 days since I returned. I really, really, really am ready for work to lighten up and some sort of normal to return to my life.

These pictures show a relaxed group of stitchers enjoying sharing tips and having a good time. Monica is new to crazy quilting and is getting a lesson from Martha Green.

Mary Anne, Freda and Sherrill enjoy looking at Freda's latest project

Yvonne, Kate and Martha enjoying a story. Retreats go a long way to keeping me sane in this crazy world.

My Garden this week ...

2010-05-23T06:25:00.000-04:00

The garden is full of beautiful blooms this week. Coming home from work in the evening is always a treat. I come around the corner of my street and the first thing I see is my front yard ablaze with blooms!

Free Book by Robin Atkins

2010-05-22T13:17:00.000-04:00

Robin Atkins is offering a free download of her first beading book. I bought it years ago and refer to it often. Be sure to stop by her blog and receive your free copy.

Spring is here ....

2010-04-11T19:31:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air ... the garden is starting to bloom.

New Gardeing Book

2010-03-01T05:09:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking a lot about spring this past month with our record breaking snow days and cold temps. I found this book on perennials and have been looking at the pictures all week long just dreaming of spring and hoping it will come sooner than later! I can't wait for sunshine and warm days!

New Book

2010-02-28T10:04:00.000-05:00

I finally ordered Judith Baker Montano's latest book and I'm glad I did. It has wonderful pictures, the layout of the book is great and I love the spiral binding. If you have been debating on purchasing this one don't hesitate! You will love it. Judith's sense of color is amazing and it comes out in this book.

Needlemagazine.com

2009-12-03T18:50:00.001-05:00

I found a great link to a new magazine here. It's a PDF issue and is well worth downloading. I found more info on the magazine here.

Welcome to the first issue of Needle Magazine! I can't wait to read it.

Another Blog GIve Away

2009-11-29T08:09:00.000-05:00

Cathy is holding a really cool give away on her blog. Check it out here.

Challenge Quilt

2009-11-29T04:50:00.000-05:00

After a few false starts I've finally decided on the basic layout of my Challenge Quilt. I'm sure it will change some over the next year ... it may even grow a row, but this is the basic idea. Now that I've decided on the look I want I'm ready to get to work and finish up the embellishing.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

2009-11-28T09:46:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving was a great time and the food was delicious! I had my camera with me but did not take any pictures. My sister-in-law took this one. Looks like we were all paying attention to someone! Hope everyone had a nice holiday and now it's time to get to work on my Challenge Quilt.

New Books

2009-11-15T09:34:00.000-05:00

The mailman had a package for me yesterday and I enjoyed the afternoon reading these two new books. What fun!

The silk ribbon book covers a lot of flowers and I plan to try a few this winter when I have more time to stitch.

I never knew you could do so much with polymer clay. I will definitely be reading this book cover to cover to pick up her tips and techniques. Amazing work!

Garden season over

2009-11-09T06:26:00.000-05:00

I cleaned up the garden this weekend and found some lovely peppers hiding deep in the garden. It's always nice to end the season with a few more goodies!

I'm working on it again!

2009-10-06T08:16:00.000-04:00

I once again am working on dropping those extra pounds. It gets harder and harder each year! I bought a new pair of walking shoes this weekend and have found a friend to walk with a couple days a week so hopefully this will be the start of a downward trend.

I purchased this set of scales a month ago because I thought it might be fun to watch the ounces drop off. LOL ... what ever it takes to motivate me!

Lace and tatting

2009-10-05T05:03:00.000-04:00

I don't think I ever showed you my newest stash additions! Cindy G. sent me a selection of these goodies and I love them. Thanks again Cindy!

1

Finally!

2009-10-04T07:59:00.000-04:00

This quilt is really hard to photograph. I need to figure out how to get the best lighting for it or you will never get to see the true beauty of the colors. But I did finally stop piecing blocks and started embellishing this week. I've packed up the threads and a few blocks and I'm taking it to work each day and trying to do a little stitching at lunch.

Blocks

2009-09-09T07:07:00.001-04:00

Yes I'm still here! The last few weeks have been so busy I have not stopped long enough to post any pictures. The garden has required a lot of work as the season winds down. I picked another 100 plus tomato's this past week and still need to put them up for the winter. I've been cutting up peppers as fast as I pick them and freezing them so I should have some good Chili this winter.

And then there is this need to organize and clean that came over me a few weeks ago. It started with the desire to clean out the bathroom closest - which lead to painting the shelves and door of the closet. Then I had to put every thing back - which required a trip to the store to pick up some baskets to organize the make-up and lotions and well you get the picture.

I have also been working on my blocks for the CQ 2012 project. Of the blocks I've pieced I just did not like some of the pieces - the colors were off just slightly so I unstitched them and picked out the pieces I did not like and replaced them. Now they look much better and I'm ready to piece more. This should be a good winter project once all the blocks are pieced I will be able to carry them with me for the finishing work.

That about does it for me. I'm still in the organizing mode and has plans for the next couple of weekends but at least I'll be ready for stitching when I'm finished.

Garden

2009-08-16T10:16:00.001-04:00

Guess what else I did this week. I put up tomato's into a sauce for my Chili. I have one Roma Tomato plant that has produced over 200 tomato's. I also need to pick some more peppers today. I noticed the plants are laying on the ground from the weight of peppers.

Pictures

2009-08-16T10:09:00.001-04:00

Well I don't know about you but I can't see the pics in my previous post. Rather than take time from cleaning this morning to try and fit the pictures with the words I thought I'd just post the pics here and you can read the post below. Back to work!

The Creative Process

2009-08-16T05:37:00.001-04:00

Once again it's time to stop and organize my space. I have been in the creative zone since returning from Omaha and it's amazing how every area of the house is impacted by the process. But alas Bunco is at my house next week so I'm going into cleaning mode this week. Wish me luck!

I really messed up my nice neat piles of fabric looking for just the right piece. (I never found the one piece that actually started the search).

I usually set up a work station in front of the television when I'm piecing. The iron is the most important part of the process.

Even the table was not safe from piles these last couple of weeks. Boy do I have a big job getting ready for this Bunco!

More blocks

2009-08-15T10:11:00.001-04:00

I made a few test blocks last weekend (ok so actually I made 8!) as I try to decide which will be my next quilt project.

I liked all of them and may end up with several new projects instead of just one. But that is a good thing - I can use up some of my stash!

I also tested out a few color combinations I don't usually use ... I love gray and plan to do something with this block ... just not sure what!

... and then there is orange! I love the look of this combination and plan to make more so this also is in the running for a larger quilt project. It was fun digging into the stash and I came across lots of fabrics I forgot I had.

My Little Red Ranger

2009-08-15T09:30:00.000-04:00

One thing about owning an older vehicle or "clunker" as our goverment likes to refer to it - is that is wears out after so many years of use. This week I had to take mine in for repair. I debated on just turning it in for a new model but I hate hate hate the thought of a car payment.

After much internal debate the ole red ranger won and will drive on for many more miles (I hope). It has a new set of hoses for just about every fluid it likes to consume and now my checkbook is a little less happy but it's better than a monthly car payment!

The beginning of a new project

2009-08-10T05:44:00.001-04:00

The process of beginning a new project begins with digging into all my fabrics. LOL and what a job that is! In this case I had one piece in mind that I knew I had but after spending hours with my stash I still haven't found it!

But I did come up with two possible color combination's and now they are laying in piles in my living area enticing me each time I walk by to choose one over the other. This is always fun committing to a combination of colors that will one day make a quilt!

The next step is to decide on a pleasing size and block shape. I have a few ideas and plan to make sample size blocks before I make my final decision!

New Stash for me!

2009-08-09T06:24:00.002-04:00

Remember the beautiful stocking I blogged about before going to Omaha that the very talented Mary Anne Griffin was teaching the techniques for. Well it was a very successful class and for helping out Mary Anne with the class she gifted me with all the supplies I would need to make all the techniques she taught during class.

I'm set for a long time to come with the Mica Powered Pigments, Crystals, glues and well just about everything a girl needs to get started!

I'm planning to play with the polymer clay as soon as I do my morning chores!

More gifts from Mary Anne

2009-08-09T06:03:00.001-04:00

The Swarovski Crystals are to die for! They are beautiful and Mary Anne made sure I had every size and shape she had.

These are two samples we worked on in class. They aren't perfect but they were sample pieces and they give me some ideas as to what we can do with the polymer clay and the mica.

I always wanted to make some faces so I ordered this mold and clay this week. Now I'm set! I played around with the face mold last night and it's not as easy as I thought to get the perfect face. I need to practice a little more today.

Fabric Packs

2009-08-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

I kept meaning to post these left over Fabric Packs from Omaha and decided today was the day! Each package contains 10 pieces of Dupioni Silk Fabric and various other goodies. Some have a silk print and others have motifs. These packs are $15.oo each and I will ship them Priority Mail for $5.00. As a special gift to you my special readers I will send a bonus pack of fancy fabrics and other goodies to make it an unbeatable bargain to maximize the shipping charge for one pound!

So for $20.00 you will get a pound of CQ Treasures! Email me here to order.
This offer is for shipping in the US only. IF you want me to ship international just let me know and I'll give you a $5.00 credit toward the actual postage.

Thank You Yvonne!

2009-08-08T08:50:00.000-04:00

I wanted to blog a picture of this lovely little scissor fob I received from my dear friend and roommate in Omaha. I love it and will be finding my scissors today so I can start using it. Thanks again Yvonne!

Omaha 2009

2009-07-26T08:50:00.006-04:00

I'm back! Its been a while since I posted to my blog but life got busy and some things had to wait. I was lucky enough to go to the Crazy Quilt retreat in Omaha earlier this month and I had so much fun. It was great to catch up with all my CQ friends!

I assisted my friend Mary Anne Griffin with her two very successful classes and that kept us hopping as we prepared for the classes. They were so much fun and I learned a lot while helping out in her classes. My plan is to work on some of her techniques and see what I can create using them. Updates to follow!

After returning from Omaha my Dad was in the hospital for open heart surgery. This made for many long days as I spent time with him and Mom while trying to keep up with work. I'm happy to report he is now home after a few small setbacks (a term his medical team liked to use) and he is doing well.

This weekend I'm playing catch up with laundry and yard work. Those weeds grew very rapidly while I wasn't looking!

Below are a few pictures from Omaha. The prom dress swap is always a favorite event at the retreat!

My block in one of the auction quilts. We raised a lot of money for scholarships and breast cancer research.

There were lots of blocks donated and made into quilts by a very dedicated group of crazy quilters.

Stay out of the way of a lady with scissors!

Taste of Frankfort Ave.

2009-06-28T18:57:00.000-04:00

I was sitting here watching the news and what do I see but my street on the news. I jumped up and went outside to take a picture of the news truck reporting on The Taste of Frankfort Ave. Fund Raiser. Looks like they had a good turn out.

Retreat Motivation

2009-06-27T11:15:00.001-04:00

While at the retreat a few weeks ago I pulled out my blocks and started stitching on them again. I am not a encruster by nature (this is a person who covers the block to the point that you can barely see the fabric) but having done a few Round Robins with some that are I find myself drifting toward more is better!

I'll probably never be a total encruster because I really like seeing the fabric ... that is part of the beauty of the block, but there is beauty in encrusting also. So along a lot of my seams I'm adding more buttons, beads and trim. Someday they will be finished and made into wall hangings.

The retreat had plenty of space and I enjoyed the lovely outdoor peace and quiet.

blocks and more blocks

2009-06-27T11:08:00.001-04:00

even more blocks

2009-06-27T11:06:00.001-04:00

More stitching was done on my blocks that I had pieced but not finished.

I'm sure I will finish these soon!

I use my blocks to experiment with new techniques.

More blocks ....

2009-06-27T11:02:00.000-04:00

I pieced this pink block to add to the mix. I really liked the rose fabric and wanted to use it in a block.

This is one of my favorite color combinations - Black, copper and gold. It may be one of my favorite blocks I've pieced in a long time!

I hardly ever work with blue. I don't know why so I decided to piece this one to add to the pile.

Almost finished

2009-06-07T12:48:00.001-04:00

Now I need to decide how to finish it. My choices are to do some machine quilting - stitch in the ditch. Or I may just tie it somewhat like a traditional crazy quilt and use some buttons on the back to finish it off.

Decisions .... Decisions!

Finishing a Block

2009-06-07T12:44:00.001-04:00

I decided the center heart needed a little something to help it stand out. It didn't travel well and I needed to sew down a few of the edges.

I decided to slit it open in the back and add a little stuffing.

The first border sort of evened out the edges and squared it up.

Next border in gold really made it pop!

Omaha Crazy Quilt Retreat

2009-06-06T07:22:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd share some pictures with you that MaryAnne Griffin sent me this past week. MaryAnne will be teaching a techniques class in Omaha at the Crazy Quilt Retreat in July. More details about the retreat can be found here. I have been lucky enough to room with MaryAnne for several years at past conferences and have seen her work evolve over the years. She was kind enough to let me post these pictures of a stocking she made up for a sample to use in her class.

"MARYANNE GRIFFIN BEYOND THE SEAMS This class will offer a variety of creative techniques to add interesting embellishments to your Crazy Quilt. These could include painting lace, Angelina fibers, art glitter, Swarovski rhinestones, embellishing pre-printed designs, shrink film, silk cocoons and rods, Shiva Paint Sticks, mica film, etc. This will be a techniques class and we won't be making the stocking. Skill level: Beginning"

MaryAnne worked up this stocking to show how you can use the techniques in a Crazy Quilt project. The cuff is bubbled fabric, the lady on the cuff is transferred onto polymer clay, the top purple fabric is glitzed with foiling, the pink is embossed velvet, the bottom is done with Shiva paintstiks, the buttons are polymer clay, and the dangling pics are done with mica tiles. We're NOT making the stocking in class -- just the techniques.

Just the thought of learning one of these techniques is exciting and I can just imagine adding all of them to one of my projects.

MaryAnne is also teaching a Needle felting class. To quote from the Crazy Quilt site "Needle felting is one of the hot trends these days. She will teach techniques to create freestanding items that can then be added to a crazy quilt, as well as ways to use the Embellisher to create fabrics for your crazy quilt. This will include hand felting techniques, as well as machine techniques using wool roving, ribbons, fabrics, silk hankies etc. Babylock, who makes the Embellisher felting machine, has committed to providing up to 25 machines for this class."

If you ever wanted to learn new and unique techniques for your crazy quilting here is a great opportunity. Be sure to go here to sign up for the classes of your choice. There are so many great classes to choose from and it was hard for me to decide on which ones I wanted to take. If you have any questions about the retreat be sure to ask and if you are debating on going I say go! This is a great opportunity to learn and I guarantee you will have fun!! I can't wait ... just one more month!

Gerry's Block

2009-06-02T18:21:00.000-04:00

Here is Gerry's block all finished and ready to fly home!

Hearts II RR

2009-06-02T18:10:00.000-04:00

My Hearts II Round Robin Block arrived home. It is full of great stitching and I can't wait to study it closer. Thanks to all the ladies who added to this beautiful piece of crazy quilting. Generations to come will look at this block and wonder at it's beauty!

Hearts II RR

2009-06-02T18:07:00.001-04:00

Hearts II RR

2009-06-02T18:07:00.000-04:00

More Garden Pictures

2009-05-23T10:53:00.000-04:00

The garden is happy these days as we had a very wet spring and now a week of sunshine!

The evening primrose is taking over several areas of the garden but I decided to leave it until after it blooms - the yellow flowers really bring the garden alive for about three weeks. After they finish blooming I will thin out the crop. With such a small space to garden in I have to do this every now and then.

The roses are just beautiful right now.

Gerry's RR Heart Block

2009-05-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

I received Gerry's heart yesterday. It's hard to believe this is the last round. I will have to work hard to make my corner as lovely as the rest.

Below are some close up shots of each corner.

Gerry's Heart

2009-05-10T09:37:00.000-04:00

Cathy's work on the top left corner.

Carol's work on the top right corner.

Debbie's work on the bottom right corner.

and this corner is where I'll do my stitching.

Hearts 2 RR

2009-05-10T08:30:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest addition to my block. I can't wait for it to come home so I can see it in person!

Penny Post Cards

2009-05-02T12:44:00.000-04:00

A friend sent me a link to this great site with all kinds of old penny post cards. To see what your state looked like many years ago be sure to click on your state and scroll down to your county and enjoy a peak into the past.

Sharon B's SRE Class

2009-04-30T06:31:00.000-04:00

Sharon B. of Pin Tangle is offering a new class starting June 18th, 2009 on Silk Ribbon Embroidery! I couldn't remember when it started and I was worried I had missed it but after popping over to her blog I see I still have plenty of time to sign up. You may want to check it out and sign up too. Her online classes are always excellent and well worth the money and time!

Hearts II RR

2009-04-29T19:43:00.000-04:00

One last seam and another look at some cool work by other ladies.

Hearts II RR

2009-04-29T19:38:00.000-04:00

Here is a closer look at some of my seams.

Heats II RR

2009-04-29T19:35:00.000-04:00

I've been working on Cathy's Pink block in this round of the Hearts II RR.

This is the block when I started working on it ..

This is the block after I finished working on the open seams ...

I admit I don't usually encrust the blocks I work on. I like doing the seams and I did six on this block - plus I added 7 more hearts to the count!

I added the motif below and beaded the center flower. The petals of the flower were heart shaped and I thought blended in with the rest of the block.
The colors in this block are really beautiful and I hope Cathy likes it when it comes home.

Gardening and CQ

2009-04-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

My garden inspires my crazy quilting! Every year as my garden begins to bloom I feel inspired to work on my crazy quilts.

This block is part of the round robin I'm in right now and Cathy's pink block has been laid out on the table calling me to work on it! This morning I woke up to a nice steady rain and I went out to take some pictures in between showers. As I was looking at the dogwood blooms I thought of Cathy's block. I will be working on it today since I can't work in the garden!

Garden talk ....

2009-04-19T12:08:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a perfect day to work in the garden! I have two areas of my yard that I garden in. The first area seems to get more attention from me since it is right outside the door off the deck. It is more of a woodland type space and I let a lot of the plants spread out where ever they would like. It takes a lot of work to make a space look natural but oh is it worth it when everything begins to bloom.

While working in the yard several people stopped by and commented on the garden. I think people don't expect to see such a garden in the front yard of a city home ... but it's where my garden is and I enjoy working it every year! All the compliments I receive make me realize that my hard work is appreciated by many!

This space is the other side of the yard. I've decided to really make an effort to put a little structure to it this year. LOL ... I better start soon as it is really growing wild right now. There are lots of day lilies and lavender plants in this space. It just needs a little more organization to really pull it together.

more garden talk....

2009-04-19T11:58:00.001-04:00

I potted up 13 pots of a variety of plants yesterday. Some are gifts for friends and others will find a home in the garden this season.

Pots of colorful plants are a great way to add color to any garden. You can move them around and change the look of the garden any time you want.

I love when I swap plants with other gardeners and one plant ends up as two! This sedum had another plant growing in the pot last year that I got in a swap. I think it grew enough this past year that I will be able to move it to another location and let it thrive on it's own!

Another great thing about swaps is getting new plants and watching them grow into their own - this is a Lilly of the valley that I received from a fellow gardener several years ago and this year it is turning into a show plant! I'll be able to divide it out next season and move it to another area of the garden.

Frankfort Ave. Annual Easter Parade

2009-04-11T13:46:00.000-04:00

Another successful Parade. The sun was shining and the kids were out for a good time. This Parade started out years ago as a little neighborhood parade but has grown over the years. It still is mostly local neighbors getting out and walking in their easter bonnets, walking their dogs and tossing out candy. A few bands play and lots of old cars join in the fun.

Easter Parade 2009

2009-04-11T13:42:00.000-04:00

The Parade featured fire engines, Old cars and children on bikes. As they passed by they tossed out candy for the kids. The little boy on the bike was a part of the parade but he couldn't resist stopping and picking up a few pieces of candy.

Frankfort Ave. Easter Parade

2009-04-11T13:39:00.000-04:00

The Grand Marshall of the parade rode in style.

The ladies were dressed in their old time Easter Outfits.

The crowds lined the street for the festivities.

2009-04-11T11:13:00.000-04:00

Ahhhhh the Dogwood is showing the first signs on blooming! Such a pretty tree.

I'm heading down to the Annual Easter Parade in a few minutes. I'll post some pictures afterwards so you can see all the fun. The sun is shining today .... a little cool but at least it won't rain on the kids looking for candy and eggs.

Hearts II Round Robin

2009-04-04T09:52:00.000-04:00

I worked on Debbie's block today and here is a picture of the stitching I added to her block.

Here is a close up of the Heart I added to her block.

Debbie's RR Block

2009-03-29T19:12:00.000-04:00

Carol was the first to work on Debbie's RR Block. She added this heart of ruched ribbon and flowers. I hope to get some stitching completed on it this weekend.

Ahhhhh....Spring is in the Air!

2009-03-22T13:54:00.000-04:00

What a difference a few days make when spring is in the air!

Garden 2009

2009-03-09T18:35:00.000-04:00

It may not look like much right now but the 2009 Garden Season is in session! This past weekend it was finally warm enough to get out and work in the yard. I have to tell you I over did it ... of course! I'm so sore today I could barely get around at work but it was worth it. I cleared out 1/2 of the yard and got a good start on the other half. Now if we could just get another nice weekend!

All my frogs are coming out to play.

You can tell it was cold this winter. The crocus that usually blooms in early to mid February is just now coming out to play.

I may have cut back this rose a little close but it too shall bloom in another month or so!

Ati's Post Card

2009-03-07T08:45:00.000-05:00

Look what came in the mail! I love seeing post cards in person after seeing them online because a beautiful post card is always even more beautiful in person and this one is no exception! I love it and a big thanks to Ati in Norway for sending it to me.

Hearts II Round Robin

2009-03-03T06:25:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd show you a part of the Round Robin Block I worked on last week.

Spring Cleaning

2009-03-01T03:45:00.002-05:00

I almost didn't blog this picture but decided to because it does show a little sign of spring in the lower right corner! You can also see the piece of wood in the left hand corner, the piece of wood left over from the messy storm repairs we have had this winter.

I'm ready for a couple of warm days so I can get out in the yard and do some yard work.

But while I've been couped up this weekend I started doing some spring cleaning. First thing I tackled was the file cabinets and this past years accumulation of paper. LOL ... this is always a chore I complete after filing my taxes. I got a big jump on the job yesterday and will get more done today. Oh and I cleaned off my desk while I was at it.

Next on my list was my computer. I had so many pictures on it from the past year that I bought a flash drive and transferred the pictures over to it. Then I deleted them off my hard drive and did the disk defragger and a few other clean up programs. Took hours to do last night but hopefully it will run smoother now.

So there you have it ... all those chores that you put off until you can't stand it any longer plus a cold dreary weekend = a smooth running computer.

I also won this!

2009-02-22T05:49:00.002-05:00

I was the lucky winner of this bookmark from Nikki Wheeler. She sent me a purple one ... my favorite color!

I won!!

2009-02-21T10:45:00.001-05:00

I had a lot of fun going around to all the blogs that were a part of the One World One Heart program. I was also lucky enough to win a few of the works of art that people are creating out there.

This beautiful paper collage arrived this week from Lilla Le Vine and I love it. It will be going to work with me to hang on my office wall.

Thanks Lilla!

OWOH Winners!

2009-02-12T18:25:00.003-05:00

This has been so much fun hopping around to all the blogs and seeing all the talent around the world. I drew three names out of the hat and will be sending out the first prize to Lilla in Hawaii, 2nd prize goes to Pat Winter in Indiana and Lori also found in Indiana will get 3rd prize. Congratulations to all the winners.

I've emailed everyone for their addresses. Thanks to all who dropped by to visit.

Lace Heart Tutorial

2009-02-10T07:42:00.003-05:00

If you are anything like me your stash is full of small lace pieces you just don't know what to do with. I found a great blog today with a tutorial for making the perfect little valentine heart using up your lace. Check it out!

I'll post a picture of the heart later today if I get permission from the artist.

Facebook link to a video tutorial

2009-02-09T17:41:00.004-05:00

I've had several questions about Marguerita's technique and thought I'd send you to her Facebook video. Now I'm not sure if this link will work but give it a try. It is part of an email she sent me.

"You can check out our group on Facebook here (please join if you would like to)
http://www.new.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Crazy-Shortcut-Quilts/49951957553?ref=ts

Best Wishes :)

Marguerita McManus
Co-author, Crazy Shortcut Quilts Book"

Crazy Shortcut Quilts

2009-02-09T05:41:00.001-05:00

I recently blogged about a new book I had purchased titled "Crazy Shortcut Quilts" by Marguerita McManus and Sarah Raffuse. I was contacted by the Author and she offered to send me a sample of her technique.

I was happy to receive this great little sample because I could see how it was constructed and it makes it look so easy.

I can't wait to give it a try on my next project. A big thanks to Marguerita McManus for sharing this with me.

Dee's Block

2009-02-08T17:19:00.000-05:00

Dee's Block

2009-02-08T12:40:00.002-05:00

I finished embellishing my block for Dee's Auction Quilt. I had to piece the block using fabric pieces sent to me by the co-coordinator of the quilt (Kate H.) and then add some of my own. It's not my usual color palette so I had a little problem getting started on it but once started I finished it right up!

Valentine Prints Link

2009-02-02T06:15:00.003-05:00

Lisa created a countdown to Valentine’s Day that reveals a new printable image sheet each day.

Each day from February 1st through Valentine’s Day, one numbered heart with a link to that day’s surprise will appear.

Her only requirement for downloading the sheets is that you link to your blog. Today's sheet looks like it has some really sweet vintage Valentine Prints.

2009-01-29T18:10:00.001-05:00

Kentucky is dealing with the ice storm of 2009. What a mess ... It all started on Tuesday with 4 plus inches of snow - then 2 inches of ice - then another 4 plus additional inches of snow.

It may look pretty but it sure was not fun to deal with.

The neighbors tree ended up on my roof. They are out there cutting it down as we speak.
I was without electric for about 38 hours and let me tell you it was cold! I almost threw in my hat and left the house last night ... I was just too cold and miserable. But as my brother arrived to pick me up a miracle occurred and the electric came back on.

Internet access has been spotty and cable non-existent. Now I just heard they are calling for a 'monster' storm on Monday. Will it ever end?

One World One Heart Project!

2009-01-25T10:03:00.006-05:00

One World One Heart is a way for bloggers to meet, share and give away art. Bloggers from all over the world participate and many new friendships are forged. It looks like a great program and I'm happy to be a part of it.

Click on this link to find a list of others joining in the fun!

Since I'm joining in so late in the game I didn't have time to complete a project so I will be giving away lots of goodies for you to use in your next project. There will be buttons, beads, trim, a Santa silkie, threads, silk ribbon and a package of dupioni silk squares.

All you have to do to win is leave a comment on this post only. Drawing will be February 12th, no other requirement ... other than please make sure I can contact you if you are the winner. I will also hold a drawing for second and third place. These packages will also contain lots of goodies!

Chara Michele Scarf Tutorial

2009-01-24T10:45:00.005-05:00



Great scarf tutorial and giveaway for those who are still
experiencing winter weather!

Dreaming of summer!

2009-01-22T05:33:00.000-05:00

While checking out my regular blogs this past weekend I couldn't help but be jealous of the gardens and warm weather on the other side of the globe. It's getting me in the mood for gardening season around here. At work the other day someone said spring is right around the corner ... ahhhhhh one can only dream!

Steps to piece Hearts 2 Block

2009-01-21T05:19:00.000-05:00

A few people asked me how I pieced my Heart block so I thought I'd show you the steps I took.

The Quilt Show

2009-01-20T05:31:00.002-05:00

I know I've blogged about The Quilt Show before so you won't be surprised by this purchase. After each series the show produces a set of DVD's of the previous season and they can be purchased from their web store. I went ahead and splurged and bought the first two series and I'm glad I did. They are a great reference material and I like that I can watch them whenever I want.

I really wish they had more shows about crazy quilting! I see where Cindy Brick will be featured this series (4) so I have that to look forward to!

Actually they are a great reference even if they aren't exclusively about CQing. I've learned a lot from the guest and the tips about threads, various fiber and fabric techniques and new quilting tools really are interesting and informative.

Another new Book

2009-01-19T05:13:00.001-05:00

Ok so by now you know I love books! Can you ever have too many? Well yes I guess you can and mainly because there is only so much space to keep them so lately I've been careful to choose only books that really interest me. I try to use the Library for the rest of my needs.

I've been meaning to pick this one up for a while and when I found it on sale I grabbed it for my permanent collection. It too is spiral bound which is great for laying open on the page I'm using. It's not small like Judith's newest book so I will mostly keep it at home but still a good reference tool.

Hearts 2 Round Robin

2009-01-18T13:55:00.001-05:00

Over the years I've swapped hearts with many ladies on the internet and I've always wanted to do something with them. I recently joined a Round Robin on the CQI list entitled Hearts. I knew I wanted to use one of the hearts I had swapped I just needed to figure out how.

After several trial and error attempts I came up with this block. I'm really excited to send it out for the ladies to work on in the RR. I used a lot of swap fabrics also to make this truly a group block. Pat Winter pieced the heart and now five ladies will stitch around it. I plan to ask them to add as many pansies and dragonflies as they want!

Don't you think this is going to be a cool block?

When the block comes home I plan to use this gold to make the borders of the block.

I joined Facebook

2009-01-18T05:06:00.001-05:00

If you are reading my blog on my actual blog and not through a RSS feed you will see my new Facebook Badge. I joined Facebook this week just to see what it is all about. I already have a few friends and can always use more so click on the badge and join me on Facebook if you want. I'm going to add some pics later today so my page won't be so bare!

I thought I'd show you a couple more books I picked up over Christmas. I seem to always buy as much for myself as I do for others when I'm doing my Christmas shopping. Neither of these books are Crazy Quilting books but they looked interesting and I have been thinking of making an actual quilt so I thought this Shortcut book might be a good starting point.

I also started crocheting again so I picked up this book of tips. I haven't had a chance to really get into either book yet but maybe this weekend when I'm finished with my chores I will have time to read them.

Attach a button making a flower.

2009-01-17T12:19:00.001-05:00

Here's a great way to attach buttons to your project. You will need a four (4) hole button, thread - I use green to resemble the stem and leaves of a flower and a bead.

Align the button in the direction you want the flower. Stitch the stem and leaves coming out of the same bottom hole - add the bead to the top hole and you have a simple but fun flower!

Catching Up ...

2009-01-17T08:51:00.002-05:00

What a week we have had with the temperature going below zero! I know I would get use to it if it were always this cold but since we usually hang in the 20's and 30's during the winter months my body just doesn't like below zero temps!

Oh well it should warm up next week a tad so I have something to look forward to!

Over Christmas I picked up Judith Baker Montano's new Stitch Tool. It is small enough to tote around with me when I travel and I can tuck it into my bag for my stitching sessions away from home.

I really like the way is stands up and how the pages are spiral bound. Great little book! I'm glad I bought it.

... The stitch directions are easy to read and easy to follow. If you are debating if you need another book in your collection I say go ahead and get it. The fact you can take it with you with ease makes it a great tool to have in your sewing bag.

Secret Sister Gift

2009-01-13T06:59:00.000-05:00

I made this needlebook for my Secret Sister and I really like the way it turned out. This is one of those things that looks better in person - the colors are hard to capture in a picture!

I used a heavy felt for the pages and added a few little pockets for holding all those goodies a crazy quilter carries around.

The winner is ....

2009-01-10T09:12:00.000-05:00

The winner of The Quilt Show Gift Certificate is Margaret B. of Atlanta. Congratulations and thanks for all those that ordered Fabric Packs this past week. I'm busy this morning cutting up fabric and putting together lots of goodies for the packs.

Last day of vacation!

2009-01-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine gave me this sweater she didn't wear - it still had the tags on it! She didn't like it and it didn't fit me so I started removing these great little buttons from it! They are so cute and will make great embellishments on my next block. They are tiny mother of pearl buttons with a single hole, held on by a seed bead. I'll be sharing some with each mini fabric pack order I receive this weekend. It's not too late to get in on the drawing for The Quilt Show Gift Certificate.

I've spent so much of the last seven weeks struggling with illness. I ended up going back to the Doctor this week (that's four visits in under two months) and started all over with the prescriptions because the Doctor said I still had a major infection in my sinuses. I hated the steroids that I had to take. I don't understand why anyone would take these for any reason other than absolutely having to for medical reasons.

But I do think this round of drugs seems to be working. I can go for hours now without coughing and that is saying a lot! I actually started taking down my Christmas Trees this morning and doing a little straightening around here. I will try not to nap too much today because my sleeping habits are a wreck. I'll never get up for work in the morning if I don't stay up today! LOL ... can you tell I'm really tired of feeling bad.

I think I will even do a little stitching today. Yippee! I haven't done any for weeks and that really does mean I must be feeling better.

Part One of Anniversary Give-A-Way

2009-01-02T10:33:00.005-05:00

The Quilt Show Gift Certificate - GIVE-A-WAY

Have you checked out THE QUILT SHOW Website? If you are not a member and haven't checked it out please do so now. This site is for all kinds of quilters and has online quilting shows featuring a different artist each show. Alex Anderson and Ricky Tims do a great job show casing various quilting techniques and during Series 4 there will be at least one show dedicated to Crazy Quilting and Cindy Brick.

I'm offering a Gift Certificate for a Free Star Membership for Series 4 to one person who is not currently a member (NOTE - THIS IS FOR NEW MEMBERSHIPS ONLY). You must sign up to use the certificate before the Certificate expires - January 20, 2009. Value of certificate is $24.95 non-refundable.

All you have to do to get in on the drawing is purchase a 'Mini-Fabric Pack' from my CQTreasures Blog before January 6, 2009. For every 'Mini-Fabric Pack' you purchase you will get an additional chance to win! The more packs you purchase the more chances you have to win.

Email me if you have any questions! Remember this offer is only good for those or you that are not Members of THE QUILT SHOW yet!

Part 2 of my Anniversary give-a-way will not require a purchase! More details to follow.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T09:05:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! A big thank you to all my readers for being with me this past year and I hope you stick around for another year. I've been hopping around reading lots of blogs this morning and I see where a lot of you are listing your goals for 2009. I decided I'm not going that route this year because I never seem to stick to the list and then I'm disappointed that I have not accomplished what I set out to do.

So here is my promise to myself ... one small step at a time.

What do I mean by that you may ask ... well just that if I accomplish a lot of small things suddenly the large things don't seem so overwhelming! First on the list is this chair. Today I will clean it off and find a permanent home for each item. I'm not just going to move it to another pile ... LOL ... that would be the easy way out.

I hope everyone has a great year and a very prosperous one! I'm putting together a give-away that I will be announcing in the next couple of days so stop by and read about it. I've been blogging since Jan. 6, 2002 and it's time to celebrate!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-25T07:14:00.000-05:00

Christmas Cracker

2008-12-25T07:01:00.004-05:00

I was good and waited until Christmas Morning to Pop open my Christmas Cracker! Many thanks to Mary for all the goodies she packed inside.

She even double wrapped the tube so it was double fun getting to the goodies.

Once inside the cracker I found buttons, beads, thread, charms, a velvet piece of ribbon and some crocheted lace! It was such fun to see what all was crammed inside the roll. Thanks again Mary for all the goodies!

2008-12-25T06:50:00.000-05:00

2008-12-25T06:43:00.000-05:00

Merry Chirstmas!

2008-12-24T09:02:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas! I know I've been quiet for the past three weeks ... it usually takes that long to get over my sinus infections and this time was no different.

I finally went Christmas Shopping yesterday for the first time. That is the latest I've ever shopped for Christmas and things really are picked over this late in the season. Today I will be wrapping and resting!

I also hope to pull out my stitching today! I know it is buried somewhere in the pile. Thankfully I had decorated my trees before I got sick but I had not straighten up my crazy stuff that had to be moved out for the trees to be brought in! So wish me luck as I look for the block I was working on. I know its around here somewhere!

Tips for attaching the Cameo

2008-12-14T07:54:00.003-05:00

I had a question about how I attached the cameo to my fabric and I thought I'd answer it here.

I use a really easy technique ... I glue the cameo to a piece of felt. I cut the felt so it is just a tiny bit larger than the cameo. Then I do my first row of beading through the felt. After the first row of beads are added I attach the cameo to the block and continue to bead.

If I were adding a lot more beads I might do this off the block and attach the cameo after I finish the beading but in this instance I wanted it to be securely attached to the block so I beaded the last row directly to the fabric.

Easy!

Ho Hum - 12 days til Christmas

2008-12-13T09:49:00.000-05:00

It's definitely not the time of year I like to be sick! I'm still struggling to get ready for Christmas and it is slow going. I feel a little better each day in the morning but as the day wears on I wear out! I may just throw in the hat and take a nap this morning.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-07T09:26:00.000-05:00

Tis the season to be jolly and that is what I'm trying to be but unfortunately I have developed one of my famous sinus infections (I guess I should have seen if coming when I had the ear infection a few weeks ago.)

Anyway I did get my tree up before I started feeling terrible and here is a collage of pictures I took of the tree. (The latest update of Picasa 3 has the coolest collage feature that I have been playing around with.)

I have been collecting ornaments for many years now and I love putting them out each year. One of my favorite ornaments to collect is the Santa figures. I tend to gravitate toward the wooden ones - kind of folk art types but also the more modern ones if I like them.

It's back to the couch for a mid morning nap and if I get the energy later today I may put out more decorations. But for now I'll sit back with a cup of tea and enjoy my tree!