Sew a Quilt News

I'm glad the holidays are finally behind us. Not that I didn't enjoy them, but I can get back to what I love doing the most---writing and quilting.

The weather here in Michigan has been oddly warm. Normally, we'd have snow on the ground by now. But we've managed to maintain temperatures above freezing. I love the warmer weather, but I also worry about global warming.

Today, I'd like to tell you about a very creative quilter, who also happens to be an author, teacher, lecturer and designer. That's a lot of hats to wear. Anyway, her name is Helen Kelley. She lives in Minnesota, but has traveled around the world.

Helen has created what she calls "postcard quilts" that reflect her journeys to other countries. Each quilt measures about 35" x 50". I can't think of anything better than traveling around the world while making quilts. Keep up the good work, Helen!

I've seen other postcard quilts, but they're much smaller. They usually measure about 4" x 6". These postcard quilt patterns are really fun to make.

Here's a few free postcard quilt patterns.

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We have another warm day---50 degrees. My office looks brighter because it's sunny outside. That's not usual for Michigan. But it keeps me in good spirits, so I'll run with it.

As many of you know, I'm in the process of opening an online quilt shop. Right now I'm selecting my inventory, and I need your help. What kind of items would you like to see? If you have any ideas, no matter how small, please email me. Just click on the contact button on the left. I appreciate your time and help in this matter.

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Do you enjoy shopping at fabric stores? I do too. Well, the other day I discovered a fun way to shop online and to have a shot at winning a top-of-the line Bernina Sewing machine. Actually, they're offering two sewing machines. But one has more features than the other.

Here's the deal. The Fabric Shop Network sponsors shopping adventures called "Fab Shop Hops." All you have to do is visit designated fabric stores online. When you find the bunny icon, you click it. A popup appears and you have another chance to win the sewing machine.

I must warn you, though. There are over a 100 participating shops. But if you love fabric, who cares? I'm going to take the Fab Shop Hop challenge, and I'll share my experiences with you in my blog. Stay tuned.

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Have you ever seen an old quilt and wondered who made it and why? I do, especially when I visit antique stores.

When I spot a an old quilt, I love to examine the stitching. Most of the old ones are hand quilted. I can't help but to admire the quilter's craftmanship. The quilt might have a small tear or stain, but I don't care; I want to know more about the quilter and her life.

So, I did some searching on the web (one of my favorite things to do besides quilting). I found a couple sites where you can see pictures of old quilts and read the stories behind them. Very interesting, indeed! I hope you'll check them out.

National Quilt Register

PBS Quilt Stories

Here's an interesting book:

Common Threads-Stories From the Quilt

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Quilting is making a popular comeback these days. As of 2006, there are approximately 27 million quilters in the U.S. alone. Perhaps you're one of them.

I love quilting so much, that I've encouraged my kids to quilt. Well, I must admit that only one of my daughters liked the idea. But I guess one out of three girls isn't too bad.

I believe all quilters should keep this tradition rolling. A great way to accomplish this is to teach children.

If you have really young kids, generate interest by having them decorate a fabric block. They can use paint, stencils, foam shapes, or Crayola Fabric Markers. Be creative! Once they're old enough, teach them how to sew the blocks together.

Heck, if you're a teacher, you're in a great position to teach the younger generation to quilt. After the students finish their individual blocks, you can sew them together. Then display the quilt in your classroom. I can't tell you what that does for their self esteem. Give it a try and see for yourself.

Need some inspiration? Check out these fun books.

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Are you a member of a quilting guild? If so, how would you like to spice up your meetings? I have an idea: Take a step out of your routine and play some games. Yes, I said play games...that is quilting games.

I did some research on this subject, and I uncovered a slew of quilting games. Some of them involve the use of your sewing machine. Sounds like a blast to me.

Check out these links and see which games inspire you. I think your quilting quild will be most appreciative!

Bella Online Games

Quilting Games

Quilters Playtime: Games With Fabric (Paperback)

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PBS has some of the best quilting shows on tv. This year, look for a program in March called "The Art of Quilting."

Pam Rupert, a quilt artist, will be featured in this film. Pam has a sense of humor, and she reflects this in her quilts. You won't want to miss this program because she demonstrates her special techniques for making humorous quilts. Mark this on your calendar while you're still thinking about it. This is a MUST SEE!

You can see some of Pam's work on her website. and at Uncommon Threads, her quilting studio. Pam also maintains a quilting blog called "Pamdora's Box." It's a stitch to read (No pun intended, really!)

I enjoy Pam's quilts because they capture the essense of quilting: Having fun while doing what you love. Her quilts bring happiness to a hurting world. We're proud of you Pam, and we'll be watching you in March.

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When I woke up this morning, it was 9 degrees outside. It's still cold as I write this entry. Of course, I'm an early riser, so the sun hasn't made its entrance yet. But I'm not sure if we'll get any sun at all. Guess we'll have to wait and see.

We had an ice storm two days ago. I took this photo of one of our trees at noon yesterday. The sun was reflecting off the ice on the branches. It was so beautiful, I just had to capture it on film.

I feed the stray cats around here. It bothers me when it's so cold, because I know they're out there. So, I got a cardboard box and filled it with a blanket and a pet heating pad. I only use the heat when it's frigid out.

It's a new year, and that means new quilt shows for 2007. I enjoy the sights and sounds of a show. They give me creative ideas, and I love conversing with other quilters. They seem to be the friendliest people these days. You can't get that online.

The best way to keep track of upcoming shows is to keep a calendar of events nearby. That way, you'll never experience that sinking feeling of "Oh, I wish I had gone to that one!" Prepare ahead of time and you won't miss a beat.

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This morning I was sitting in bed trying to wake up. It was early, about 5:00 am. Last night, I left my window blinds open because I like the moonlight shining in my room. As I was sitting there, I noticed a dark figure creeping along the outside of my window.

Whew! It was only a couple female deer who stopped by to eat my bushes for breakfast. A few minutes later, two more little deer joined in.

Then I saw a black cat running around. She was curious about the deer, but only came close enough to do a "look-see." Her black fur stood out against the new fallen snow. It was a real treat to witness this scene. That's one of the pleasures of living in the country.

Speaking of country, I want to tell you about an organization who's making quilts for the families of our fallen soldiers. It's called the "KIA Memorial Quilt" Program.

They're doing a great job, but they need our help. What can you do? You can make quilt blocks, buy supplies or just make a generous donation. No contribution is too small.

This act of kindness goes a long way toward healing the hearts of these grieving families. It also makes us feel better about ourselves. After all, we're helping to restore this country. Count me in.

Until next time...

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I love fabric. All types. When I saw RJRs "Everything But the Kitchen Sink" collection, I was smitten. These reproduction fabrics are bright, cheerful and eye-catching.

During the depression, women received their food in feedsacks. Because times were tough, the women cut the feedsack into quilting shapes and made quilts. Pretty darn smart, I'd say! If you're not familiar with feedsack reproductions, you're in for a treat.

You can find a generous sampling on Ebay. Or check out the Fabric Attic. They offer quite a few selections. Don't forget about DeWitt & Company. They have a wide variety of prints and colors, too.

And if you're interested in reading more about the history of feedsack quilts, I recommend these books:

Cotton Candy Quilts: Using Feedsacks, Vintage and Reproduction Fabrics

Feedsacks! Beautiful Quilts from Humble Beginnings

I wish everyone a fun and relaxing weekend.

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I'm always searching for great topics for my blog. This morning I found a couple sites that make pet portrait quilts. Wow, you have to see these quilts!

I know you probably enjoy quilting, but in this case, wouldn't it feel great to hand it over and let them work their magic? These people are talented, and the finished product looks identical to your pet.

I'm so impressed that I'm going to check into having my cats immortalized in fabric! What a stitch! If I do this now, I'll be set for Christmas.

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Have you ever seen an envelope quilt? Actually, they're quite charming. I like them because they have a unique look. If you can imagine a quilt made with tiny fabric envelopes, you've got the right idea. I've never made one, but I've heard they're easy to sew.

You could write the names of your family members on the inside of each envelope. Or, maybe you could add the names of soldiers from a particular unit. How about using an envelope quilt as a classroom project? The ideas are endless.

On another note, I'm going to buy inventory for my store tomorrow. I'm so excited! My website has tons of quilting information, and now I can offer quilting supplies as well.

If there's anything you'd like to see on my site or in my store, please let me know. I'm open to new ideas and suggestions.

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