Growing Stitches

A bit of knitting....

2012-01-26T19:52:00.000-05:00

Started a shrug a few weeks ago using some Homespun yarn in the color Windsor from a local chain store.........................

I knitted this shrug using the large Knifty Knitter loom and a skein and 1/2 of yarn. It was very easy to create and many TV shows later I had something to be real proud of at last!

A simple e wrap stitch was all that was needed.

There is a local yarn shop in town called Sunflower Fibers located downtown. I took a ride over last weekend and found some cuddlies to bring home with me;) (The lady in the store asked me if I would like the yarn wrapped into a ball---should have let her though because I had a huge mess w/o it done! Thinking of going by there tomorrow to have her do the yarn below for me!)

Lambs wool which is very soft in pretty blues.

Trying my hand on a knitting board currently with some Abuelita 100% Merino yarn in Orange Sherbet. I picked up a great book that is packed with lots of wonderful stitch how-to's and projects. My first project is a blanket that will have many squares about 5" long each. Each square will also be a new stitch to master.

Relaxing and rewarding!

See ya'll later!

missed ya'll;) while at sea.....................?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

2012-01-26T19:07:00.001-05:00

Wooooweee!!! Something is always going on 'round here lately!

Since my dad and brother have been visiting the last month in NC with Ayden and I, we have been busy in town and out of town too. This pic was taken at the USS Battleship in Wilmington,NC a couple of weekends ago.

There is my daddy;) He is former Navy so this was a must "to do" trip while they were here! Lots of tight spaces,but very interesting to see where the Navy guys lived while at sea back in the 30s and 40s.

Click on the menu for 1944! I should have gotten a pic of the tailor shop below inside the ship where the tailor worked on his sewing machine and then there was a cot for him to sleep in above at nighttime! Just amazing to see the conditions they were living in back then.

Aboard the ship, here is a shot of a plane.

Just a snapshot of the altogether enormous ship!

These chain links were 80lbs each---that's right 80 lbs!!!!!

An anchor-------oh my!

he really wasn't crying here like the pic portrays him to be doing

Ayden ran all over the ship checking everything out and asking lots of important questions along the way to Grandpa.

.................................................a piece of history for the day...................................................

I will be back with more. More pics that involve some BIG engines!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Champagne is in the Room

2012-01-01T14:41:00.005-05:00

2011 stitches, a photo by peachga11 on Flickr.

Lots of quilting,wallet making,loom knitting, pj making and everything else in between for this past year!

16 quilts completed

3 commissions *another one starting soon*

5 sales in the shop *maybe more in 2012 fingers crossed*

sewed some potholders

sewed some wallets

a few gifts for friends

learned how to loom knit and love watching TV cuddled with Ayden while creating something from yarn *made a couple hats,2 scarves and I am currently working on a shrug for myself*

did some hand quilting and hand embroidery

made some PJs and a belt for Ayden toward the end of the year

*at last*...I made the tree skirt of my dreams

participated in the Pay It Forward event (you really need to try this out!)

took part in my first QAL

BEST of all opened an ETSY shop!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There may be something I am missing, but I think that sums 2011 up quite well. It makes me smile wide to know I accomplished all of this in ***1 yr.***

2012 leaves open many wonderful options;);)

My champagne glass is raised to all of you out there in the quilting world!!!

My handsome boy;)

2011-12-30T12:18:00.000-05:00

At Christmas right before the wrapping paper storm hit.....(showing off his new Camo jammy bottoms from his Uncle Christoper and Aunt Alissa here too.)

silly boy:)

Dinosaur sandwich cutter (has been used for a few sandwiches already)

We did Christmas with daddy on Skype this year due to his absence overseas for the military. So in this pic he was looking at daddy on the computer screen showing off his new Thomas train set from Grammpa and Gramma Strange.

Ayden got all into it here. He got Leap Frog Tag and some Tag books from my dad along with some bath toys from his other Gramma and Grammpa you can see in the pic here.

This was the BIG hit though (no pun intended) lol;)

"Mommy I got drums. Mommy I got DRUMS!!!"

I think some lessons are in order;)

Everyone has had their try at the drums too around here. Who can help it? They are really fun and a great stress reliever!

Gosh this little boy fills my heart UP.

Happy New Year ya'll!!!

Christmas Bakery is Open....

2011-12-23T14:33:00.001-05:00

Jeni from In Color Order made this a few times and posted it on her blog for all to drool over! It was something I had to make eventually,you know one those items on your to do list forever?!

The pretzel bread lasted about a week and then it was history;) Soooooo darn delicious!! Very good with Cinnamon apple jelly too. Just statin' a fact;)

THIS tasty looking bread is Potica,a family recipe that goes back many, many years and generations. My grandma received it from her mom, my great grandmother whom got it from a Slovenian friend in MN.

It has a Slavic, Czech and Polish heritage tagged on it and it is worth the hrs of labor I will add.

The Potica is compiled of 2lbs of walnuts finely chopped, butter,milk,eggs,honey,sugar,flour, yeast and a few other ingredients and LOVE!!

Every time I have a slice I am brought back to my Grandma's home during Christmas ----every time. Diane over at random do or di helped to bring this bread's memories to life as well..go see for yourself!

I made up some gift bags too of this traditional bread.

The hubby is going to be receiving some to try soon and his other request is Peanut Butter Chip and Pecan Brownies.

Baking warms my heart;)

My handsome "4" yr old too:):):):):):):):):):)

Enjoy one another {especially} at the moment you read this line!!!

SARA

Oh what a season!

2011-12-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

fresh evergreen tree we picked out with the NEW tree skirt(eeeeeeeeeekkkkkk!)

little helper celebrated his B-day a bit early due to it being so close to Christmas...

playing Angry Birds game with his buddy

Trip to the Science Museum in Raleigh before picking up Uncle and Grandpa

a giant dino print!

What big eyes you have Ayden?!

these guys came home with us grandpa (my daddy) and Uncle Brian (my brother)(see how well behaved my dog is!)

we went to Red Robin here for Ayden's official B-day yesterday and Ayden had a sundae to celebrate after some pizza! Ayden also got this balloon from there---the kid loves balloons...but then again what child doesn't:)

the only grandchild!

Monkey Joe's was on our list yesterday too 2hours of nonstop fun!!! They need a place like this for adults!!

I still had some fun knitting a hat for Ayden as another Christmas gift this year while the roar of children played in the background!!

Lion brand Wool Ease yarn and away I knitted

started a new quilt too and I jumped at the chance to use the Swoon pattern I have been drooling over for months!!! The client gave me free rein on this commission. Cool with me! I haven't gotten much done maybe a few squares, but I have time. Another red,white and blue number. Lucky me I get to use Ruby, Bliss and Kona in it too!!

Merry Christmas!!!

SARA

No red and green this time around :P

2011-12-16T10:58:00.000-05:00

This time I made a little vintage looking yellow,orange,pink,green and blue number. Creativity arose from scrap bed linens and a little Dream On thrown in there.

Quick project to release some of the urge to create with fabric for a bit!

Out came the pretty colors of finca threads......

All crinkly from the dryer.

some Kona orange and a Denyse Schmidt print...such a versatile print to tie it all in too I feel.

This was so fun to hand embroider along all the little seams of the triangles and squares throughout the bow tie pattern;)

Then I did some machine quilting in dark blue Sulky thread to hold it all together.

Bow tie Mini will be in the shop today.

I did a little hand embroidering on some Tula Pink fabric as well in the past couple of weeks.

Sorry about the unclear words on this one..click on it for a better view;) I is supposed to say I will obey,right away,every day, in a cheerful way. It's a little phrase Ayden and I are using to instill obedience into Ayden in our Christian home. Something light,easy and fun to say!

Besides quilting and embroidery.....

we have been celebrating the birth of Jesus coming soon on Christmas through this Advent season.

Ayden enjoys lighting the candles each night;)

Enjoy your weekend.....................off to decorate the tree and show off my new tree skirt underneath it. I will have to come back with some pics for ya'll to see.

I have a Traveling Stash winner!

2011-12-15T20:38:00.000-05:00

Would #22 please jump up and down and act crazy for me? Rather for whomever is there to witness their excitement maybe is what I should be saying;) It would be fun to see someone's reaction though once wouldn't it?!

I will be in contact with you shortly Becky!!!!!!!! Congrats to you!!!!

Are all of you ready for Christmas?

I sure am!

Have a blessed and Merry Christmas.

Blog Tour of Quilts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-02T07:00:00.004-05:00

Sally over at Sally's Quilting Corner has come up with a fantastic idea of doing a December tour of Quilts spread throughout blog land. It reminds me of a mini museum where one can enter and see gorgeous works of art on display. Why would anyone turn that down?!

Here is what I have decided to display in the "gallery"................................................................

{Custom made potholders}

I tried out the Square in a square pattern and it was a good time!

A friend of mine I met through bible study back in GA, that followed me to NC, needed some Christmas potholders to dress up her home for the holidays approaching;) She calls me her crafty friend all the time;) What a sweetie eh!

{"Oh Joyful" tree skirt}

This was a VERY pleasing project to undertake and I am grinning away at the results:):):):) Some of the things I adore about this skirt are the Ruby prints,the fun tree pattern,scallops galore,the gingham bows and--------------- WELL everything! I had a bit of trouble with the bias binding,but only because I have never attempted it before. I can put aside that issue because I was super happy that I got to hand embroider something to give that extra **sparkle**. (I haven't done that in awhile.)

I cannot wait---cannot WAIT to see it adorn my Christmas tree this season. Couple more weeks when my dad and brother arrive in NC and off we go for the perfect tree. Ayden is going to LOVE it!!!!

So who is next on this fabulous Blog Tour of Quilts hosted by Sally??????

Go see Kristen's blog at: www.kd-quilts.com

I wonder what she has in her "gallery?"

P.S. I know she is a really sweet and caring person that I met through #talknt on Tues. nights where we talk quilting:P

Get your coffee, tea or hot chocolate (yum!) ready for some quilting fun!!!
Enjoy and I hope all of you have a blessed and Merry Christmas!!!

Guess who got theTraveling Stash and is hosting a GIVEAWAY???!

2011-12-01T11:52:00.000-05:00

I received my goody box from Jess over at Quilty Habit yesterday. {Thanks Jess!} Take a look............

For those of you who don't know what the traveling stash is, it travels all around the U.S. (and Canada possibly). This one was started in August 2011. It's filled with fabric, notions, patterns etc.

It's a party in a box!!!!!

This is what I snatched up------well this guy insisted he help too!

What did we add back into that party box you ask????

Jennifer Paganelli prints, Christmas snowman angels fabric, 1 yd blue flannel, a yd of a Joann's flower print and a Japanese Alexander Henry print in a little over a yd,yardage marker tags, twill tape,red Gutermann thread and some of those tabs you place under your rulers for grip--phew that was a mouthful!

Hence,I am having a giveaway............

Who wants a crack at this party box is the next question???

What to do if you wish to try your luck...

1. You MUST be a U.S. resident.

2. You must pledge to put in an equal amount of what you take out - quilt quality fabrics, for example, and approximately the same amount of yardage you took out

3. You must have an active blog and hold a giveaway to send the traveling stash to its next location.

For more fun:

What is your favorite Christmas festivity?

Post on your blog or FB,Twitter about this giveaway and come back here to tell me with a link please:):):)

{Giveaway will end Dec. 13th}

A few treasures

2011-11-26T15:48:00.000-05:00

Although I have a cold again I am making the best of it because it is my Birthday today ya know!! Pizza ordered in sounds terrific to me tonight!

My sweetie had some GORGEOUS flowers ordered for me that came today and they smell amazing even with my cold.

Stargazer lilies are stunning.

Ayden could not get enough of how good they all smell and "Mommy,mommy these are so beautiful!!"

For this week I have completed some projects and started another quilt using some------------------------wait for it-----------------------------------------vintage sheets!

a finished scarf for my handsome boy as an early Birthday gift to him...his special day is Dec. 22nd:)

AND some rocket jammies which fit his body perfectly--more of those to come I do believe.

Sugar n' Cream cotton yarn with a simple EW stitch again. This was the closest I could come to a red in cotton,but I like the variations in color and the feel of it overall. Next one I am going to make it a tad wider. This one measures in at 17 pegs and about 10"long. I see these on Etsy all the time and they look so plush and wonderful. Now I can make my own!!

Vintage bow ties using my vintage sheets is very lovely indeed.

Smallest pieces I have worked with,but no complaints here. Taking my time piecing these together.

Traveling Stash up for Grabs Again;)

2011-11-22T18:56:00.000-05:00

Trying my luck on this baby!!

Go check out Jessica's blog to see exactly what I am crushing on at the moment!!

I get to pick out what I want and then add back in what I took out--outta my stash---fun right?!

P.S. I adore Jess. Her and I have become fast friends and she is a super blogger to say the least...go take a look around her blog too while checking out the traveling stash goodies!

Take care,

To Loom or to Sew that is the Question:P

2011-11-19T15:41:00.000-05:00

Once again I have to risk it and say there has been no quilting goin' on 'round here lately!

There has been some of this though...

Clown pants for my son??!! Not really, just a mommy who can't figure out her son's measurements properly? I really am at a loss for that,so I took some of his PJ's that I had made last year and laid them on the fabric and cut using my rotary cutter. Hey! It worked..look.....

The elastic waist band will bring in that wide tummy area you see too. *Thumbs Up* Mind you this is a trial pair that I am using as a template for the real pair I am sewing out of this fabric:

Sarah Jane fabric is priceless:):):) Hope to get those going soon and with this tutorial here, they are SOOOO easy that when you get finished cutting and sewing you are like "Wow I am done already!"

BTW, if anyone has some insight on measuring a child let me know please!

As I was ~~slacking~~ taking my time on the Pj's I decided that a new hobby was a must----lol! A friend of mine kindly talked me into it...I blame her;) hehehehehehehehe

End result of new hobby: loom knitting

Satisfaction guaranteed:) My stitches are so uniform you can't tell where I goofed...............maybe I shouldn't say that.....................oops I did :P Not much room for goof up on this simple e-wrap stitch though. I want to play around with some new stitches already.

Yarn is now becoming a new ~~obsession~~ interest too. **Who,whaaattt** Never!!!!

So soft and I wore it last night out for the first time and received some compliments;)

Hooked on Looms..........................................


yarn from Michaels on sale

New knitting project...

red and green scarf for Ayden..."Mommy can you make me a scarf too?!"

Ayden to cuddle with and a loom project---nothing better.

Perle cotton #8 arrived at my door the other day and they have been staring at me in all their cuteness ever since.

Must make quilt for them soon and then we can play together...my stomach is doing somersaults thinking about it.

With JOY,

snooze button...

2011-11-11T19:26:00.000-05:00

on quilting lately. I know shame on me, but there is just too much beauty outside to really sew lately. I bet you thought I was going to say I hit the snooze button to sleep in. UHHH.......'Fraid not. I know bummer:(

see that cutie{if you click on him you can see his sneaky face}

God's art is everywhere we look!

Mommy I'm gonna climb it-- k??

Love this pic!!!

Lately when we pray at night he likes to thank God for trees:)

OK now for a Drum roll please.............................................................................................................................

See I was teasing I did get some things done!! Finished for the tree at Christmas. Makes me smile every time I look at it! The bias binding was a little tricky as I have never attempted that kind before,but it worked!!

I got to play with lots of the new Ruby line by Bonnie and Camille---adore every piece in that line btw:):) The bows are some gingham ribbon I had lying around. I am a bit happy to be displaying this under my Christmas tree this year!!! I finally made one. I have been talking about it forever---so mentally I am checking that off my "to sew" list;)

I also finished my Dead Simple Quilt as well. I am calling her Iris {stole it from my friend,Paulette over at The Way I Sew It,forgive me Paulette!}

simple,but so fabulous!! The Central Park print makes me smile again and again:)

She is in the shop all warmed up and crinkly from the dryer! I got to sew on a new label too---eeek:) from momiemadeit on Etsy---she is fantastic!!!

Stay warm under those hand made quilts and Happy Veteran's Day!!!!!

All around me

2011-10-29T16:59:00.001-04:00

Trees are not only outside of my home,but also in my sewing studio these past few weeks. I am detecting a theme. Hmmmm....I think I am falling in love with trees.

Lots of pinning was used for this tree skirt,but I enjoyed taking my time every step of the way.

My new Rowenta led me along too while pressing these cute little trees. I had to have it! It was on CL for $10---YES this iron retails at $100 and I got it for a major STEAL!! It works with a bit of my trusty starch oh so darn well I will happily remark! I really like that it is 200 more watts of power than my old one and that the sole plate is bigger too;) No changing settings either every time like the old one. I plug her in and go,go go!!

When I wasn't admiring Rowenta,I decided to rearrange my studio. Is it the Fall cleaning bug? Ahhh well I needed a change and this is what she looks like presently. I am thinking of getting a 6ft fold away table though. That small one there shakes on me every chance it gets and there isn't as much room I'd like for my quilt to lie out while quilting it.

The stack on the floor below my bulletin board frame is my inventory for my shop. BTW, I sold another baby quilt today---sooo that definitely set the day in a positive way!! I ponder in the feeling of mailing off a quilt to someone that LOVES my work!!!! What a breath of fresh air.

I get so much light in this room...maybe this room was made for me, made for Growing Stitches. Feeling pretty blessed anyhow.

Here is a stack sitting in my studio of some solids, Terrain, Sunkissed, Basic Grey, Origin and a few others I picked up while driving back from the pumpkin farm last week with Ayden. I never ever get to go there because of the 45 min. commute. So when I drove almost right into it this past week, I had to go take a peak!

I think that is enough for now,my hands are freezing and well.........my feet are always cold---especially this time of the year--even with wool socks on!

Time for some more homemade chicken noodle soup I cooked up yesterday, garlic bread and cuddle time with the little guy:):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)

Linking up to Sarah's blog of fun times!!

What peace has shown me...

2011-10-29T16:16:00.000-04:00

Learning every day to get that peaceful moment in......

Enjoying the moments with my guy;)

Behind our home, colors are revealing themselves left and right. God is up to some changes!

FALL is my absolute favorite season by far! It is my anniversary of when I got married to my Josh, it reminds me of great memories of childhood rolling in the piles of leaves,the smells,carving pumpkins......on and on.

And now some new memories will be made with Ayden in our little family:)

Time to paint some leaves and press them on paper. Right after we plant some rose bushes and bury some tulip bulbs in God's precious earth.

Maybe some hot apple cider afterward .

Crafty Us;)

2011-10-22T13:12:00.000-04:00

Painting pumpkins with his new friend, Alex that lives right around the corner from us:):):) Look at that face!

Half way through,"Let's go playyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!" Off the boys went and mommies took over for ya guys. It was a lot of fun and no mushy pumpkin guts to deal with this year. Don't get me wrong I love pumpkin carving,but with 3 yr old's this was much nicer;)

Ayden and I made this yesterday in no time at all. He can't get enough of it and it was free crafting! You can get the whole scene here with the trick or treater's and all. Love the freebies that are so darn cute-don't you?!

not twiddling my thumbs!

2011-10-21T09:00:00.002-04:00

My MIL received this last week and I heard that half the neighborhood has seen it!!! Kudos to you Teri;P Pleased that you have fallen in love with it!

I am trying to discover the perfect name for this quilt. It was a quilt out of my comfort zone of color selections. Over the moon with the results though. Kinda reminds me of a bowl off jellybeans too pretty to eat.

Reversible for sure and the Central Park was screaming to be at the center of attention!!

Sorry purple goodness---I had to get a move on this tree skirt! I was itching to anyhow!

2 trees done and 6 to go! They are quite fun to create. I had some scraps on hand and then I purchased some Ruby in green and red for the trees and red border.

I can't get enough footage of these guys!!!

The designer Carol Turznik over at Mamacjt keeps telling me not to scream when I get to the binding.....well Carol I am going to count on you for some assistance then perhaps with a few other references. Maybe Krista over at PoppyPrint and possibly youtube to the rescue!

Orange is in Season

2011-10-20T10:51:00.000-04:00

the pumpkins are here......

in all shapes and sizes and as little boys and girls too;)

Our Tuesday morning bible study decided to do something as a group out side of our study.

We all decided it would be a thrill to go to the local pumpkin farm together!

A hayride was in order with this cutie and his buddy,Alex as well. Here they are calling out "Pumpkins,look pumpkins!!" Alex's mommy and I pointed out all the veggies along the way to the kiddos and they would respond with either a "yummy, or "ewww!"

Mentioned to Ayden that this field reminded mommy soooo much of WI:):):)

Cotton which is of course vital to my quilting passion! We have fields and fields of cotton a 1/4 mile down the road from where I live as well.

"What kind of sound do cows make guys?" In a loud response we hear, "Mooooooooooooooooo!!!"

Those darn bees were busy alright,just not making honey-----rather---- buggin' us:(

Sidenote:see that white horse behind Ayden? That one took notice of Ayden's sandwich earlier and so we had to steer clear of him! Persistent horse.

Our pantry was without honey so we had to get some. It even has the honeycomb inside. We have already added it to oatmeal and peanut butter sandwiches---delicious! Figured we'd try some Sweet Potato Butter too while at it. That jar needs to be cracked open soon;)

This tree was more than likely planted in January before we even got to NC and right after our house was built. Not too big of course,but it is still a very beautiful creation from God, that sits in front of our yard, right outside my sewing room window. Red,orange and green leaves cascade over the green grass and everything is right . Fall is alive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Enjoy the season in wonderment!

the crayon box

2011-10-11T15:40:00.001-04:00

Sitting here eating some gummie worms with Ayden and typing away!

Here is the little guy in his armor...well part of it. He is missing his "muscles" that are in the Captain America costume he will be wearing for Halloween this year.

GOSH I have a cute kiddo! lol! I am a bit biased though;)

ANYWAY....................

I have been sewing away to my hearts content the last few days and this is what I have.

YOU ready------------------------------------------------------!!!!

First up,

Wallet int he making for someBODY and I got some zippers int he mail today from Jennifer in WI. IF you need zippers please check her out on Etsy at ZipIt! She is fabulous!!!!

I received a free zipper charm too with a very stylish kaleidoscope on it. If this isn't eye candy then I don't know what that is:P

I started on my Dead Simple QAL too....yippee!!!!!

Just a bit excited about that.

I think I like IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can you believe that as I was sewing these squares together the song "True Colors" comes to my rescue! lol!

This is such a breather from the twins!! Easy peasy for certain.

More eye candy for ya. I was looking at some girly prints for the stash (to do some girl quilts for the shop) the other day at sewdeerlyloved on Etsy and came up with these. Minus the Cosmo Cricket Tailor Made of course. That one was on clearance at a steal!

Japanese Lecien Flower Sugar ,Sarah Jane Children at Play and Tanya Whelan Darla

OH and if anyone would be interested in some free baseball or cowboy or both scraps from Alexander Henry let me know!

The Twins are here!!!

2011-10-06T20:42:00.000-04:00

As in twin size quilts people-----come on!!

Fronts are identical and measure 51x81

For the quilting, I used straight organic lines,one on each side of the seam.

My favorite part about these twins are the dark prints that pop out everywhere against the light blues. My hubby's grandparents wanted some navy and baby blue so I am thinking these hues passed the test:)

Adore this River blue from Joann's too. Feminine and masculine tone.

Kona Marine,River blue,leaves and a small piece of bubbles for one piece-y back;)

2 quilts finished for a super sweet couple!!!!

Speaking of sweet...

Ayden and I made this yummy, AND I mean quite yummy apple pie from the Pioneer Woman website.

My crust is a work in progress,but I could have cared less because the taste made up for it,many times over! I made good use of my winesap and granny smiths for this goodness:)

Thinking the pecans made it that much better too:P

I picked out some fabric for another wallet too today.

Amy Butler,Tula Pink,Kona Crocus,Grunge yellow (I think)and a pop of green

I am a bit anxious to start too!

Applesauce

2011-09-30T10:37:00.002-04:00

Peels,cores and slices in under a minute! One of my favorite kitchen tools especially for baking tasks.

I used a combination of winesap and a few granny smith for my applesauce. I used about 8 apples.

The recipe is here and it is SOOOOO delicious!!! The blog is called Oh My Sugar High! Isn't that eye catching? It was for me and definitely drool worthy all across the board.

Here's my side kick---well really my taste tester. He was satisfied:)

I didn't get any backings pieced yesterday. I was too busy running errands and lurking around Joann's for a great price on batting. I found out that they sell Pellon Nature's Touch batting for $10.99 a yd. I will have to keep that in mind. I walked out with the packaged Pellon though because it was on sale for $18 originally #30 for 90x108 or Queen size.

It feels oh so soft too! I heard about it first hand from Heather.

I snatched up 5 yds of some pretty River Blue Quilters cotton as well since it was on sale for $4.50 a yd! I am a Kona gal, but the Quilter's cotton works just as well. This will be for the twins:) (Anything below that, as far as solids go is low quality. That is my experience anyway.)

Tomorrow I will be showing ~~off~~ you backings completed;)

Onward

2011-09-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

I won a gift card to Fashionable Fabrics a few weeks ago and so I had to buy 2 of my favorite prints from Little Apples and then some Sarah Jane rockets. Adore her prints!!

Next up is the cutest shop I have seen lately called The Little Fabric Shop. Customer service is fantastic and the inventory is HUGE! Stop by Angie's little shop and take a looksie!

OK need I say more, I finally was able to nab some girl on the swing from Sherbet Pips. A yard to be exact and it is EVEN cuter in person with those little apples,the porcupine and snails---eeekkk! This is going to a special project in the future. I am starting to see it disappear a bit in fabric stores so I thought I better snatch some quick;)

Heath in Pink (1/4 Yard)
Just Wing It Trees in Pink (1/4 Yard)
Opal in Fuchsia (1/4 Yard)
Secret Garden Sandi Henderson(1/4 Yard)
Sarah Jane Children at Play Pinwheels (1/4 Yard)
Circa Reindeer Games (1/2 Yard)
Sunkissed Skinny Lines (1/4 Yard)
Riley Blake Sweet Stripe (1/4 Yard)

Do you ever buy fabric thinking you need to stock up on a certain color? I thought I needed pinks,but it turns out I could use more oranges. The again some blues too after the 2 twin commission ones! It seems to never be complete does it??! Ah well, like my hubby always says, "I am sure it is going to kill you to buy another yard of fabric if needed?" he,he...

Amy over Amy's Creative Side mentioned this a couple weeks ago on Talkin' Tuesdays---->

I have not been able to try these baby's out yet, but Amy said that she really likes using them. You put them on your fingers when hand sewing things to ease the pressure on your finger tips. They help you push the needle through quite nicely as well. I purchased them here. Jill threw in a free pattern as well! I love the name too. Poke-A-Dots. I will give a review soon I hope.

I have been doing other things besides put-sing around online looking for really cute shops ya know!

I completed the 2 twin tops the other day.

Some of the designers whom have graced their presence in these are Jennifer Paganelli, Amy Butler,Denyse Schmidt,Kate Spain,Me and My Sisters, Sandi Gervais, Tula Pink and some Kona colors. I will take an outdoor pic soon. I wanted to get this post up out of excitement and took this one at night inside.

Like I said above I need more blue!!! About 5 more yards to be exact. It will probably be some Kona Robins Egg. It is also time to buy some batting. Joann's here I come!

Remember the wallet I showed you two glimpses of in the last 2 weeks??

I had an itch to finish it yesterday. Jennifer Paganelli is getting some love form me lately. I really love the blues in this wallet with the snap closure color. It is so stunning in person:)

Tula Pink made her presence as well and a little Kona. Gosh I love Kona---it saves me every time! The placement of the snap tab came out a bit off, but I think it will be fine.

Zippered coin purse area showing off some Tula!

Pocket underneath the zipper purse

In my Etsy shop to purchase.

at the park for a MOPS get together:)

Happy Thursday ya'll!!

FALLing for FALL....

2011-09-26T21:05:00.000-04:00

In all the best places

Ramseur,NC this past weekend

He's ready;)

apple heaven!

Winesap apple goodness:)

I want---------THIS one!!!

GOTCHA!

Rewarded

Heading down the hill to....

Inside were lots of jellies,chutney,apple butter,cider,pumpkins,gourds, apple cake on and on!

Even some of these!

Ayden had to wash down his apple sundae with an apple slushy. They also pressed fresh apple juice. The BEST juice I have ever tasted. Honest.

Then some swinging time!!

apple bliss!

It's time...

2011-09-25T21:47:00.000-04:00

Time to donate this quilt to my charity of choice in honor of 100 Quilts for Kids!! The 100 Quilts for Kids is all organized by Kate over at Swim,Bike,Quilt! Such a fantastic idea to help kids that are struggling in some way,shape or form. It fills my heart to know this quilt will be going to someone VERY special.

The pattern came from the book Material Obsession. I hand embroidered all the white center blocks. They are penguin feet,polar bear feet and snowflakes in variegated thread. It is a previously made quilt and I believe it was my 3rd or 4th quilt.

I chose a twin size quilt mostly because I really wanted to be a part of the 100 Quilts for Kids and I am really busy with a couple other quilts as of now that I didn't have some time to make one specifically for this organization. I kept thinking it over in my head and returning back to this penguin and polar bear quilt. Every child likes animals right?! What better theme then I feel!

I attend a local bible study and last week they mentioned donating items to Agape Pregnancy Center. My ears were tingling and an a Ha moment occurred. All I could find on the center was this little bit here. I am also sending them some laundry baskets. These are not for the new moms to place their laundry in either. Many of these moms do not have a crib for their babies as they are homeless. They use the baskets for a crib for the babies. It is so sad and I had to HELP. Had to.

If you would like to donate a quilt head over to Kate's blog and join up!!! Your heart won't regret it:)

Pieces of MY heart

2011-09-24T08:43:00.001-04:00

Chain,chain,chain

Halfway pieced

complete

piecing into rows

rows of blue with a touch of red

the seams were pressed

time to piece these 2 tops together into quilts!

In between stitches......

Tumbling Parent and Me Class

Concentration vital to this monkey(not complaining!)

Cinch!

watch me!!!

rubberband boy;)

Come jump with me!!!!

We have another class this morning.

Then off to an apple orchard in Ramseur,NC!!!

Linked up there^^^^

AND here....

Edward Scissorhands

2011-09-17T21:42:00.001-04:00

I felt sorta like him for the last 3 days!!! Fabric is my choice though and I don't think I went too mad with my cutting either unlike Johnny Depp;) Only one tiny cut on my thumb. AND my weapon of choice is a rotary cutter for sure! A good chunk of my blue stash is going into the 2 twin commission quilts.

{120} 5" squares with only a few precut charm squares

{480} 2x4 3/4" rectangles

{480} 2 3/4" squares

Eat your heart out Johnny Depp!!!

Determined to get going on the sewing and a tad crazy I got right to the piecing on my Janome.

Got all the red part done last night.

Today I was rewarded with a delivery from Sew Fresh Fabrics whom I love to pieces!

I am crushing on their 16 Kona FQ's special they have in their shop!!

Quite the lookers. They are all going to my Dead Simple Quilt mentioned here.

Needed some Kona Marine too for the 2 twins as well. Sew Fresh Fabrics labels each Kona fabric too with the color and the name of their shop for future reference. Don't worry Peg and Becca I won't forget you girls. I will be back for some more of that FQ goodness on Etsy soon!

Night ya'll!!!

Brrrrr......Santa?

2011-09-14T17:40:00.000-04:00

I finished off the potholders today!!! One commission done. I am very pleased with them. So much- that I wish they were for me. he,he;)

Ah well they will be going to a very good friend's kitchen for Christmas! Hope she likes them! The dots,swirls and stripes got me in the mood for that beautiful season. First Fall. I know. I know!

I continued the dots on into the binding to get an overall merry appearance.

Clueless as to who designed this Santa print on the back??????????????

Any ideas? Please give it your best shot. A girl could use some thoughts!!

Off to enjoy my Peach Yogurt Smoothie with Ayden:) Speaking of Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....good thing the little guy and I are sharing.

Maybe cut some squares for the twin quilts aka "the twins"-HA! I kill myself,really.

See ya'll later,

Sweet Friend and New Projects

2011-09-13T14:00:00.001-04:00

My friend Adrianne over at Little Bluebell knows that I adore Kate Spain, yes,but the girl decided I had to have some of Kate's stationary too!!

I have the urge to transfer all my addresses into the Kate Spain address book NOW! Oh and the magnetic note pads can't wait to starting writing on those too;)

Thank you sweet friend, Adrianne!!!

Have you ever had an overwhelming feeling to really get to work on a project---even if it was almost 10 at night??

Not naming any names,but these 6 credit card slots were cranked out of my studio last night. Weird.

Well,I still need that zipper..off to Joanns tomorrow for some notions and Kona.

Time to finish her off,along with these potholders for a friend/client.

Square in square pattern. New to me,but I rather enjoyed piecing them. Easy does it! The fabric line is Ready Set Snow by Me and My Sister Designs. A little whimsical and very fun to play with indeed!! (especially since I won it in a giveaway!)

I have a Christmas print for the back on these,but I wanted to show it to ya'll to see if you recognize the designer. The selvedge is missing:( I really love it though!! Maybe I need to search online as well.

P.S. Ayden had his first tumbling class yesterday. He had a real good time jumping up on the balance beams,up and down on the trampoline and we did some exercises in a circle with the teacher! Next time I am taking some pics for sure! I think he is going to outgrow this 2-3 yr old class real quick though. He is almost 4 , but that is great cuz that just means he will be roaring and ready for the next age group at the beginning of next year!!

That is it for now. I will take at ya'll real soon!

Brain Load

2011-09-10T19:43:00.001-04:00

Where to start...hmmm....life has been happening with our family. As an Army family that is, there is never a dull moment to say the least. Things are just starting up too, but it will keep us busy and out of trouble right! Ayden will be displaying his monkey abilities in tumbling starting Monday. A week later MOPS will be set into gear and on and ON.

For the sewing mommy, there is commissions to be made and more quilts for the shop as well. I am happy about this though. This is what I wanted and so I better buckle down and get at it!

Potholder sets for the shop. I used some Aurifil variegated thread on these guys and I am happy about it. Fun to make these too of course.

Embroidery stitching took off on this dresden the other day and I have finally finished with a nice smile on my face.

Enjoy the Bella solid in this one very much so.

Circles and vine like swirls for the quilting. I had a great time with it.

I stitched with a blue variegated perle cotton thread around the whole outer Dresden plate and the inner red dots with a variegated yellow.

A little yellow flower stitched at each of the four corners with a french knot in the center.

Binding is ready to be sewn to the front and she will be in my Etsy shop.

I took advantage of some leftover binding strips and a few 2 1/2" scraps to make it work. This is one of my favorite things to do. It gets rid of all the extras nicely;)

gift box/take out container full of binding leftovers..........they will get used eventually when the right project comes along.

Commissions are on the board.......

Christmas Potholders

2 twin size quilts

Possibly a full size quilt (waiting for a response)

2 Twin size quilts are to be identical. They are going to be shades of blues with a pop of red and a little white here and there. Thinking maybe a white 4" border around the outside to frame the square within a square pattern I have chosen.

After drawing this puppy out, I am contemplating the EQ7 more and more---just sayin' folks!!

And these would be nice for brainstorming which are here.

Also, came across this for Ayden.

Really cool shop run in Thailand.

Back to the twin quilts Sara!!!! Sidetracked by Etsy designers sorry:)

Here is one block I made so far....131 to gooooooooooooooooooo.

From the stash,I will probably need a little more,some navy in there and a couple more red prints,but it's a really good start.

Hope I interested you in some of my recent happenings. It is a stack of projects, but I can't complain. one.bit.

Labor Day Sale in Shop

2011-09-03T11:19:00.000-04:00

GROWING STITCHES SHOP SALE IS STILL GOING ON THROUGH LABOR DAY WEEKEND

15% OFF ALL ITEMS!!

*SALE ENDS SEPT. 6TH*

Custom orders always welcome folks!!!!

Enjoy the weekend and especially the sunshine! I know I will:):):):)

Full of Surprises

2011-09-01T17:52:00.001-04:00

What have you been up to you ask? OR should I be asking you that? Ah, well I have come to think I need to be real busy round here!

Case in point....

Here is a wallet started last week,need to get a zipper to continue onward. It's blurry for a reason. Don't want that MIL sneaking a peak yet! (Sorry Teri!)

Mamacjt had the perfect tree skirt pattern---snatched!!!!!! {That woman is a riot too in case you were wondering! She is from WI so of course we get along like nobody's business.} Wondering what fabric to use in this skirt now. Maybe this,this or even THIS.

As for the color chart, THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!!!! ALL of you were great bloggers in helping make a decision for my color palette in Lily's Quilts QAL coming up:) I came up with Kona in:

Top to bottom: Ocean, Cerise, Canary, Crocus and Bluejay

Hubby helped me last night and he originally came up with:

Kona Violet and I switched to Cerise because I feel the Violet is too close to the Crocus.

Colors not so easy does it for mu-aw:/

********Advice needed again!********

Thinkin' of some Heirloom mixed in too and/or some Anthology fabric or Jay McCarroll in purples with yellows-yum!

A couple of months ago my friend Deb sent me some dresden petals from her AccuQuilt GO machine. They've been taking up space on a shelf since then. Taking them ON!

There is a red,yellow and blue color combo emerging and I really LOVE this! Each of the petals have "notches" so you can line up the fabric VERY easy peasy.

Started using this miracle in a bottle awhile back I have come to really like it dependability and the price of $2 one cannot beat! I took some cardboard from an empty oatmeal canister and cut it into a dresden template to help me press those dang raw edged tips under with the Niagara starch. Instead of hand sewing these down,going for it on my machine folks. Blanket stitch could look sweet! I did a running stitch around the circle completely and then put another piece of that oatmeal container cardboard inside it. Press away.

********background fabric choices********

ME IN red with white DOTS???!!!!!

ME with Kona Ocean or Marine(?)???!!!!!

OH and look what I got in the mail today------------------>

I signed up for it awhile ago and was surprised to see it. Free books can be sent to you for your child through Imagination Library started by Dolly Parton!!! Such a nice organization!!! Ayden REALLY like to have mommy and daddy read to him on a weekly basis. OH and there is also a little flyer they put inside that tells a little history behind the particular book you received,some questions to discuss after reading the book and a coloring page. If you have a child/children go check it out!!

{{SALE IS STILL RUNNING IN MY SHOP TOO UNTIL THE END OF TOMORROW MIDNIGHT EST.}}

Majestic aka pain in the TUKIS!!

2011-08-31T07:00:00.013-04:00

***Warning some ranting to follow....

My Ayden came in with a "purple" icy pop for his distraught mommy;) See that little tan circle in there too. That is a lifesaver for pulling thread through the fabric and popping those quilters knots in nicely;)

Blurry pic yes,BUT the point is this is the area of the Majestic top that had me huffing and puffing. In the beginning I had wanted to do a flower of some sort in the middle.

I have had this book since last year and thought it was high time I pick something out and do it. Plus Aimee Ray included a disk in the back with all the patterns--yippee! I printed off the design I desired and clipped it to some tracing paper and traced away.

****Insert drama here...................Then I went to place the design on the quilt and pin it down. Went over to my machine and started to stitch using my darning foot. ****Urggggggghhhhh***** Stitches were coming out really small and tight and UGLY all around. A pickin' I went with Mr. Ripper and then back at it (just HAD to try again!) same thing. You get the idea right?

BACK TO THE ABOVE PIC-----------Hubby comes in and says"I don't think you will be able to do that on your machine." ME: " I should be able to do it." HUBBY: "don't think so,why don't you hand sew it with the thread on your machine?" ME: ****Urggggggggghhhh****

Next up Gutermann thread, FAIL! The "Quilters knots" were starting to come out as soon as I finished. AND it took a movie and a couple episodes of Smallville AND a tired right hand to get her done;)

Next day comes:) I figured I will get her all quilted and then I will figure out that darn flower yet.

Today I get the binding on and take a look at her again all put together. Right away I think I have to remove all those stitches and fill it in with some good ole' white perle #8 cotton. Crazy quilter on the loose!! That's right and that is what you see above in the first pic!

End result is worth it,not worried about loose threads anymore from that DA-gone flower. I can sleep easy he,he,he! It didn't even take that long to remove them all and replace with the white thread, maybe 1/2 hr tops.

The actual quilting is swirls or I like to think of them as the phone cords we all used to have on our table top phones--remember those??? he,he Spring-like and random! Kona Coal I have to mention too---lovin' IT!!!!! And the binding was adorned with some Coal power too!!!

Tomorrow I am taking a better pic of this flower I speak of so fondly;)

Ta-da:P see those white stitches in that flower?

None of my previous backings have had a pieced strip added. Cheers to finally doing it! I managed to take just about every print from the front and put them in the strip too. Thinking that floral print at the top really shines fabulously as well:):):)

See the purple in the top right of the Shout Color Catcher? It took any bleeding from my purple quilt and the worries away!! Such a fabulous product! I had to brag about them.

Majestic measures 37x47

Dear Majestic,

Your stubbornness made me want to finish you in style even more---HA!! I am a STRONGER quilter.

Thanks for the memories. Hope you make it into a great new home!

P.S. For now you will be in my Growing Stitches Shop.

Growing Stitches Shop SALE!!!

2011-08-26T19:33:00.000-04:00

September is creeping up quickly and I am ready to do a sale in my Etsy Shop!!!!

15% OFF E
                   V
E
                        R
                          Y
                            T
                              H
                                I
                                 N
                                   G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wallets
potholder sets
Quilts of all sizes

***Custom orders are Definitely welcome as usual!!!

Click on through to my shop.

{OH and tell all your friends too please------on your blog,Twitter,Facebook------where ever you like!}

Purple-LishIOUS!

2011-08-26T09:07:00.001-04:00

I really started thinking of the process of a quilt with this top.

This time.

Cutting fabric.

Counting how many squares I have...then realizing I need to "hunt" down some more.

Slight worried that I may not have more.

Digging through my scrap drawer for purple AGAIN.

The challenge is good therapy, at least for me!

Matching the seams.

And finding that they are not so matched:/ (Perfectionism? nah)

Telling my inner voice it's alright no one is going to be pointing fingers;)

Side note: I received some great info for great pins to buy on #talknt Tuesday night! Love those women and men on there.

Why was I worried?

No sweat!

I am a quilter AND we always work it out. lol!!!!

OR keep trying:)

Sandwich,pin and FMQ on the agenda today.

Challenges here I come;)

Is it PalettABLE?

2011-08-24T09:08:00.001-04:00

Lynne over @ Lily's Quilts is doing a Quiltalong sometime next month. Thanks Lynne! (She's a sweetie!) One thing or another has kept me busy lately,but I decided this is right up my alley of Quiltalongs! I have been wanting to dive into color through pictures and colorwheels for some time.

How do you usually do it then Sara you ask?!!

I always use my fabric stash for inspiration. Time to branch out some. Many areas of color to navigate and I could use the knowledge!

My color palettes have been chosen above by me and here is the area of expertise that I need from ya'll. Sneaky right..he,he,he

Purples,blues and yellow are up for grabs----BY ME!!

1st pic: Pathway

2nd pic: Majestic

You can say P or M to make it real easy.

Let me know which one you think is tops in your honest thoughts below in your comment.

Pretty please...........;)

And thank you!

Linked up here!

A Purple Kinda Mood

2011-08-21T16:57:00.000-04:00

I picked out all purples in my stash last week and got to cutting. Purple was my mood I can honestly say. After seeing more and more purple quilts in bloggy world, I decided I had to join in;)

4" squares,2"x6" rectangles, 2" squares, 2"x4" rectangles,borders and binding all cut!! Sounds like a lot to chew yes,but I tend to enjoy the cutting process.

How about ya'll? What is your favorite part of the quilting process?

Paired with some Kona Coal,the 17 rows are coming together and with each row more excitement building. A girl is going to really enjoy this quilt somewhere in the world!

Just a little sneak peak into what was awaiting me last night for dinner courtesy of the hubby;) I had run off to Joann's for the Kona Coal,did a few errands and returned to this!! It was quite tasty. The Mexican flare was homemade tortillas with shredded steak (marinated with orange juice and lime juice and spices) and rice with black beans,onion,garlic and spices. To drink, Josh made me a Peach, Orange, Banana Coconut Rum glass of refreshing yumminess!!! Isn't he something---a real keeper for sure!

Enjoy your evening and hope you get some sewing in:)

Your hands will thank you

2011-08-17T19:20:00.001-04:00

I had some rows of a zig zag pieced strip left over in my closet for a month. I thought to myself these would be a perfect match for some potholders.

Now I have made some of these guys several times and each time I go through the process, I learn something new each and EVERY time. Honest.

Maybe not perfection this time because that would be a tad pious,but they make me grin:)

These are in red and black as you can see and the red happens to be my kitchen accesorizin' "go to" color these days.

Anyone adore these as much as me can purchase them at my Growing Stitches Shop.

Inside there is Warm and White batting and Insul Bright to prevent ouchies;)

These can also be made as a custom order at one's request.

Cowboys and Indians

2011-08-14T16:04:00.001-04:00

Quick project for my shop which was a pattern I followed loosely. I have had the pattern for quite some time and it needed to breathe!

Front cowboy print is an Alexander Henry one. The back print is a Debbie Mumm design in flannel.

Simple four patch and away it went into this fun spirited baby top. Kona Tomato and Spice are very charming together I think!

As my son says, "Hee, Haw---- ridem' cowboy!"

:::::::New listing is in Growing Stitches today:::::::

BIG smiling rights go to...........

2011-08-10T11:49:00.000-04:00

JENNIFER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jennifer said...: Bleeding hearts; Jennifer is over at hoodiesandflipflops so if you like, sneak on over and give her blog a looksy!!; Jennifer I will be in contact with you shortly.

It looks like peonies,roses and lilies are the perfect garden flowers. At least that is what this giveaway revealed. Thank you for all the entries!!!! Very interesting to learn about what others flower choices are and some of you even gave me a few to ponder. AH...I always dream of having a flower garden around the whole perimeter of my back yard. Someday when we are settled perhaps!

I have a quilt top ready to be stacked and quilted...off I go!!

Sweet tooth

2011-08-05T16:18:00.000-04:00

all cut up and on the clothesline for small wallets and nowhere to go!

Tula Pink, Cheep Talk (connecting threads from my girl Deb) and Kona blue of some sort

Ayden's big GUNS showed up...

see his dinosaur tat? got that from the Natural Science Museum

I was bullied-HA!! Well..................

NOT really, but I had to have an excuse....

for these sweet numbers!!!

many hours later, it was back to ~~fun~~ work on the new wallets

Yep. Hit the sweet tooth with these as well;)

Adding these to the shop!

Calming Seas

2011-08-03T16:36:00.000-04:00

Measures 36x42

Thinking the DS dots in the sashing and the binding made this one pop!

I am crushing on the Bella Solid Green in here though,a grande shade to me.

Really enjoyed hand quilting this one with the Presencia,love the crinkly look (before the wash)

My stitches are improving;)

more life was added with some circles across the 2 DS prints

Will be in my:


ETSY SHOP

(later today!)

My giveaway is still going strong folks!!!! Come check it out and sign UP;)

Playful

2011-07-31T16:04:00.002-04:00

Kicking back on a Sunday.....

much needed dinosaur belt for Ayden's "Spiderman underwear showing" problem!

cost around $3 to make and he's happy to show it off:)

one scrappy border left to be quilted!! Exclaiming victory shortly!

been claimed by Presencia Finca SOME MORE....can't get enough of its non fraying,sleek, 2 stranded qualities . I am thinking of more projects to use it in as I poke away on my quilt.

I also cannot get enough of this little guy's handsome tush!!!!

Bubbles,a puppy and the Ayden taking on the outdoors!

Pumpkin seeds

Zinnia action

Cypress vine with flowers peeking out in deep pink

Let me know!! Interested!

**************Link to giveaway,GIVEAWAY!!!!!**************

Embroidery Mixed with Family Adventures

2011-07-29T23:00:00.001-04:00

I. AM. IN. LOVE. Presencia Finca Perle Cotton #8 is where it is at! Received some for free from a gal in New England,but not all the colors are what I am needing currently. The Peacock Blue is the exception above. Found a great website called Yarn Bazaar that I am going to try out though.
Anyone want to trade some colors? Seriously.

Back to this quilt. ha! It is leftover HST's from the rainbow swap and a few from my stash I threw together one day last week. Then I pulled out a DS rarity in the Katie Jumprope line (won months ago) and went to work. Quickly finished the top and then pieced the back with some Kona,Pure Elements and Tres Belle. Onward to hand embroidery. I was itchin' badddd!! It was calling my name!

There it is and I have been happily dong my running stitches for the last few days. There is much more done than in the pic,but wanted to give ya'll some eye candy for a bit! Tease, I know.

Went to the Museum of Natural Sciences yesterday with my family in Raleigh,NC. What a great adventure. We will be returning.

Hands on activity room for Ayden---AND daddy;)

4 floors to climb,run,laugh,ask many questions,and just stare at the wonderful marvels of this world!

Thinking the boys liked it.

Me too.

Btw, go comment on my giveaway!!!! I am giving away the new Ruby line by Bonnie and Camille and a free subscription to the magazine American Patchwork and Quilting!!!

Summer County Fair in my town!!

2011-07-27T11:13:00.001-04:00

Welllllllllllll..................not actually outside in my town,but rather on the internet in blog WORLD to be specific!!!

I thought this looked like A BLAST!! So what quilt will I enter....hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm....

Entering my Out West quilt (finally came up with a name for this guy!)

This quilt stretched my creativity and really got my hubby involved in color choices and all!! Kona colors were lagoon,black, garnet and spice. I machine pieced, quilted and bound this one. It measures 88x88.

The pattern can be found over at Bec's blog. Out West sits on our Southwest themed guest bedroom upstairs in our home.

Are you going to join in at the FAIR??!!

If you want to enter or have fun browsing all the wonderful quilters that have click here!!!

Ah summer.....

P.S. gooooo ENTER my GIVEAWAY on my previous post if you want a chance at a free magazine subscription and the new Ruby line by Bonnie and Camille!!!!!

Celebrating--yes still---and who wouldn't------ with a Giveaway!!****CLOSED!!!

2011-07-26T15:19:00.001-04:00

Time for a confession. I missed my 1 yr Blog-Anniversary back in March *turning red* and then I noticed that I am almost at 200 blog posts. AND of course there is my Etsy shop opening:):):):)

The time has come for a SUPER dee Duper BLOG GIVEAWAY!!! (Yes I said super dee duper he,he,he)

How about a GIFT SUBSCRIPTION for the above magazine!!

You will love this magazine as I do already. I have a small stack of them in my studio that I periodically thumb through for mew ideas. This AP&Q magazine is VERY informative and has great tips in the back. I learn so much from this magazine----very cool to have available. There are great articles that are worth reading over and over!! Etc. Etc;) Love it so.

Whomever wins this magazine, will then send me their address so I can fill out a card and the LUCKY winner will receive their FREE 1 year subscription to AP&Q!!!!

There is more to win too!!

How about a YUMMY charm pack of Ruby by Bonnie and Camille?????????????????

I Love THE WHOLE line,that doesn't happen too often for me;)

Some of my faves are:

Some right?!! lol!

What do you have to do to possibly get your hands on all this goodness??????

1. Leave me a comment stating What's your favorite flower? i.e. mine is the peony
2. Blog,Tweet, or Facebook about this giveaway pronto and come back to comment with the link!

That is all! Good Luck folks!!

No-reply comments not accepted.

Comments will close in 2 weeks on Tuesday, the 9th of August.

get your party on!!!!

2011-07-25T16:44:00.000-04:00

My personal labels have been added.

Now celebrating my new adventure into Etsy!!!!!

Open for business!!!!!!!!!---------------> Etsy shop

Come take a sneak peek.

true colors------>

2011-07-23T09:38:00.001-04:00

-----shining through....song stuck in my head. Truthfully,it was playing while adding the binding:p

Anyway, I present to you, Color Me Happy!!

Such a fun quilt to make and with the flannel I used instead of W&N batting,it has a beautiful drape to it.

Icing on the cake was the backing fabric and Kona black binding

Fun,FUN,fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My Etsy shop will be up soon,next 2 weeks possibly and Color Me Happy will be up for purchase!!

Brightens my heart;)

commission complete

2011-07-20T18:35:00.000-04:00

Callin' it: T-ball

Fabric: Kona tomato,royal and bone, Alexander Henry baseball prints

Embroidered name: DMC perle cotton

Measures: 41x41 square

T-ball took be about 5 days to create from start to finish and the more I look at it the more I like it!!

Reversible

For baby Caleb whom is turning 2 wks old Friday. This will be perfect for him to crawl around on and for mommy to wrap him up while in the car or wherever the little guy goes.

Hope you like it little one;)

Onto binding my Color Me Happy quilt.

makes my heart sing

2011-07-16T08:57:00.000-04:00

all quilted up and ready for the binding...maybe grey or black?

50% off and 20% off coupons did me very well indeed (maybe I will find some time to read my magazine and start a block out of this very much wanted book;) hey I am a follower, not a leader! the bandwagon was calling me!!

It's the weekend---wooooooohooooooooooo!!!!!!

Color me happy:)

2011-07-13T16:17:00.001-04:00

rainbow of colors for my zig zag top

my pinning technique for lining those seams up very nicely

Vintage sheet goodness from a very sweet supplier! I have my work cutout for me with these;)

all the pretty sheets in order (I don't even have my own sheets stacked this nicely!)

ric rac labels with my sewing name on all of them made with this tutorial

2 people close to my heart...Gramma Teri and Ayden,Gramma was visiting for a few days from WI in the HOT,hot sun;)

Oh goody!

2011-07-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

I stumbled upon a wonderful blog All Things Vintage Sheets this morning. Made me think of the vintage sheets that are going to be gracing their presence in my home very soon;)

Not only was the subject to my liking,but she is also giving away a GO! Baby GO. Had to have at it of COURSE!!!!

Go see for yourself-------------> hopefully one of us will win;)

life

2011-07-05T16:18:00.000-04:00

the outdoors...

With the little man

and some pretties along the way **zinnias and lantana**

In the studio...

got some more HST's made and need to order some Alexander Henry Baseball Retro Kids and baseballs:)

Celebrate

2011-07-04T12:04:00.000-04:00

Breakfast by daddy and Ayden with LOVE<3

We needed a good breakfast due to last nights party!!

Pop Its,GloWorms,Morning Glories,June Bugs etc. some of the names you can only wonder!

Pop Its and Sparklers were a hit with Ayden!!

Our first time with some fireworks.

Many more times to come;)

There were pops going off all around us in our neighborhood last night. Fun for all!!

Happy Independence Day!

Icing on the Cake (BED?!)

2011-07-03T18:42:00.000-04:00

Scraps turned into matching pillows for the guest bed quilt.

The pattern...(done by hubby)--love him!

They look good enough to snuggle with...don't you think???!!

who made the CUT

2011-07-02T08:18:00.000-04:00

200 (4") squares from the Rainbow swap and a VERY happy quilter!

Simple.
A quick pick me up.

Zig zaggin' my way through them. (he,he,he)

<<<<<<<<<<<<<1st commission quilt>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Yes. They are baseballs. I am a magnet for the baseball theme I guess;) All for a very good cause here. A new baby boy coming any day now. BUT this one doesn't have to be finished quickly though. Relax---just do it! (isn't that a song)

Red,white and blue are the go to colors for this bad boy. I wanted something to replicate a baseball diamond. Here is my inspiration pic. Conveniently, I saw this while linking up at Quilt Story. Love when that happens!

These HST's got a hold on me I tell ya! Lovin' every bit of it!

Linking this HST madness to:

Notes

2011-07-01T10:27:00.002-04:00

If you haven't looked to the right of my blog in the sidebar, there is a new "GRAB ME" button. Do you want to be my long time buddy? If so, just grab my button and put it on your blog.

Playing around with some quilt labels too!! More to come on those...

Hear me out on this next one!

If you do not swap, SWAP!!! Easy advice right?!

It is FABulous:):):):)

I think this obsession with Tanya Whelan started a couple weeks ago looking at Tasha Noel's blog. I thought, Man look at that stack of goodness sitting there staring at me over and over again! Did some searching and yacking over at Talkin' Tuesdays and VIOLA!! YUMMINESS has entered my studio--- well more of it anyway;).

And then some more fun prints,he,he,he...

It is also nice to receive from friends too! My friend Deb over at Easily Distracted Debra sent me surprise goodies last week. Thank you again Deb for the amazing surprise!

A book I have been wanting (w/o her knowing),Jennifer Paganelli fabric (yum!) ,Connecting thread Tweet,Tweet line. She even cut me some dresden plates with her Accuquilt!! AND a nail file. Deb thought of everything and read my mind . I love it all!!!!! Deb you are too sweet!!!

*****Oh,almost forgot too! My friend Pam (different one now!), has a friend named Craig whom quilts. He is entered into the McCall's Design Star contest. He made it into the 1st challenge round and now needs people to go vote for his marvelous quilt. So go do it for Craig!!! And VOTE every day,once a day for the next 2weeks! You know you would want others to do it for you if you had a quilt in this contest;) Peer pressure, ahhhh;)*****

Quilting away 'til next time,

pitter patter goes my heart...

2011-06-29T10:16:00.000-04:00

I have been wanting ~~needing~~ to revamp my blog for some time now. Wanted something new. Something that would stand out on its own.

In comes my talented hubby,Josh. So a little background. Before the Army, he was in college to be a graphic designer. Just because he left school doesn't mean he abandoned his talent;) He took my request on willingly and came up with this amazing design!

I want to express my passion for quilting and what it truly means for me. I want to keep growing in my craft and show you more and more new quilts by me. And be brave. And open up shop for those whom would like to snuggle up in some of my creations along the way.

Growing........

One step at a time.

OH my GOODness...

2011-06-26T14:27:00.002-04:00

Star Jewels is done!

The Kona lagoon was a tad sneaky when it came time to photographing it. The true color was not in attendance. Probably the best photo above!

For the quilting I chose Garnet Gutermann thread since that wasn't as prevalent in the quilt top and I think it worked out well. View from the back and see that lagoon changing before your eyes;) I am good aren't I --he,he...

minimal quilting efforts really due to the star taking the show on its own so beautifully

I added an extra 6" border too so it would drape nicely on the queen size bed . Remember this is for our guest bedroom.

Binding is the Kona spice again to tie everything else in. The hubs got in on that decision too--he is great,isn't he:) I am really pleased with it this time too. I finally got the technique down and it lays flat. This was not the case in the last 2-3 quilts sorry to those who received my bumpy oopsies!

Indoors was no help either for the lagoon:( I love her anyway!! Some geometric lines were added inside the lagoon triangles for some fun designs.

A few very organic lines to add some rays coming off the star.

And a french seamed pillowcase I made with some leftover garnet fabric.

She measures 88x88 square and she wasn't short on frustrations for me, but with only a few diamonds that weren't completely matched,she came out safely and is now ready to be loved by all of our guests.

Don't ya'll just love quilting!!!!

P.S. Thanks for the pattern Bec you have pushed me out of my boundaries;)

Maybe...

2011-06-24T14:06:00.000-04:00

Gotta keep trying:) Go try your luck over at Vicky B. Quilts!!!!

A Father's Love

2011-06-19T16:09:00.000-04:00

Celebrating daddy's today.

Ayden can't get enough of his daddy that's for sure!!

Happy Father's Day!!!

Strawberry Fields Giveaway!!

2011-06-18T16:26:00.001-04:00

Have not posted in a few days due to camera charger being shipped. BUT I did get it today and my battery is charging as we speak. Another 1 hr to go!!! I found out I cannot live without IT!!!!

Small need,just a small one (insert sarcasm) for my camera so I can snap some photos of my Star Jewels top:) Still waiting for the rest of the fabric to arrive,but it will be here Monday for sure. Thank you awesome fabric.com people. More on them later!

ANYWHO, I have been ooogling at fabric over at flickr the last few days too. Trying to do a couple swaps here and there. No such luck yet. While there, I discovered another designer I reallly, reallllllly like! Tanya Whelan and her Dolce,Darla and Delilah lines are scrumptious ya'll!!!

Getting way off track here, but that is easy when you start talking about fabric as ya'll know and LOVE;)

1Choice4Quilting is having a FAN-STINKIN-TASTIC giveaway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IF you like Strawberry Fields by Fig Tree then you NEED to head on over and discover IT!!! (YES I am talking about more fabric,hey you don't mind!)

Are ya drooling yet, are ya,are ya??

Mr Postman

2011-06-14T13:05:00.000-04:00

I mailed off 4 packages today. My cutting and sewing tables are cleared presently:) Ahhhh....

One was for a PIF lucky ducky (not sayin' who), one went to Canada for a swapping buddy (she has my FWQ book coming my way),one for Pam over @ Mama Sparks (another fabric swap) and one for my daddy and brother Brian (the baseball quilt for brother and the potholders for daddy).

I already received my fabric from Pam. Yummy Jennifer Paganelli prints, oh they are delightful too! Thank you Pam!!

So St. Croix, around a Fat Eighth of each
Pretty and mine!

June has been good to me so far:)

Star so Bright...My Faves

2011-06-13T12:31:00.002-04:00

My creation, a photo by peachga11 on Flickr.

Diamonds are forever ya know. BUT in this case they are fabric diamonds;) Sorry!

Some patchwork left and a couple borders will complete MY star top. It has been worth the trials;)

Never give up my friends,

Swap til I drop?

2011-06-12T08:53:00.001-04:00

Never!!!(insert sarcasm please)

two Anna Marie Horner voile prints (no voile in my stash so can you use them in quilts or just for petting over and over?)

Thinkin' Heather Bailey has officially reeled me in with her designs! Pop Garden is my cup of tea most def!!

These are all from Nancey over @ Kite and String. Why? Cuz she wanted a certain designer fabric that I had and so we swapped to our hearts content!

Don't think I will be "droppin" any time soon;)

What???

Excuse me while I go gawk some more at these beauties.

Oh Patience where are you?

2011-06-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

Patience. Not so easy sometimes for me. After having my son it has grown some, but then I started quilting. I started working on the Star Jewel pattern to be specific. Don't get me wrong I HEART this pattern, but it doesn't like me so much. 45 degree angles boo! My seam ripper and I have become better friends!

Got the diamonds stitched into rows of 3 and then stitched to create a diamond point. Wish it was easier, but ya know-- what would I have learned new as a quilter if it were easy??!! Struggles with this pattern will make me that much wiser for the next project. The star has been born and I am working on the insetting method. There are 4 squares, one for each corner and then 4 triangles. Here is the pattern quilt Rebecca from Chasing Cottons designed. Hope you can see what I am talking about from this pic. Once I get the insetting done I will have the borders and pieced blocks left. There is a light at the end of this one--I see it coming!!

She is a beauty in the Kona garnet,spice, and lagoon I will tell you that much!!!! I cannot show any progress quite yet,still need to order a charger for the camera. Patience though right?! That is going to bite me in the booty isn't it-lol.

Go see who else has signed up for Sarah's Whoop,Whoop Friday.

OH and almost forgot to mention a great website called quiltingboard.com. They are FABULOUS!!! So many great tutorials,pics and the WOMEN are soooooooooooOOOOOO helpful!!!! There was a TON of info on there about the star (aka Lone Star or Star of Bethlehem). They have get me through some tough spots in the piecing area and saved me from some other trouble areas. I cannot say enough about that site and NO I am in no way affiliated just proclaiming it like it is that is all!

Alright off to inset 3 more triangles.

Quilting rocks!

Sara