Norma Sews

BMQG Goal Board 2012

2012-01-02T15:49:00.000-08:00

I've started my 2012 Goal Board for the BMQG January meeting. I've listed these in no particular order.

1. I finished the hummingbird quilt top (left) and am working on the back (right). I'm still not sure if I'm going with this quilt back or not. I'll be taking it to Lynn for quilting in February, which gives me a little bit of time to finalize a quilt back.

2. I love vintage linens. Seriously, couldn't this print be part of a fabric collection?! I also love some of the color combinations that can be found with vintage fabrics/linens. I never thought of aqua and yellow, but it works. I quilted this one with an all over stipple. I just need to trim and bind it.

3. Wonky stars in red, white, and blue. This one is for my father-in-law. All 36 blocks are complete. I'm not sure how I'm going to finish this one....sashing?

4. Paper pieced hexagon flower garden.

5. HST using yellow vintage sheets. I've used my Accuquilt half square triangle die. Love how easy it cuts the hst.

6. Flying geese using this fabulous fabric stack.

7. Aqua and orange quilt. I need a few more blocks to complete a final row.

8. Grandmother's Flower Garden using Moda Central Park. This one will take me FOREVER.

9. Needle felt books. I found these cute little felt note books at Joann's. I thought they would make great needle books. Just need to add a little batting.

10. Vintage quilt top. As if I didn't have enough UFOs, I found this vintage quilt top at the thrift store. They appear to be feedsack prints. All hand stitched.

QUILTING FUN 2012!!

Quilt Back Dilemma

2011-12-29T20:01:00.000-08:00

I'm in a pickle! I've recently completed my hummingbird quilt top and have started the quilt back. My dilemma being that I like the quilt back as much, if not more than the quilt top. I really don't want to use it for the back.

What's a girl to do? Do I stick to the plan or do I make it into a quilt top? I'm really second guessing myself. Husband is no help!! He thinks it should be a quilt top. I did tell him I would HAVE to buy more fabric for the backs.

The back is so much more my style. I enlarged the hummingbird pattern so that the block measures 54" x 54". Yes, the hummingbird is GINORMOUS!!

Well, I'm going to sleep on it, but I'm leaning toward a quilt top.

Hummingbird Quilt Top Complete

2011-12-29T00:56:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it has taken me six months to finish my hummingbird quilt top, but it's finally finished. This one will be sent to Lynn for quilting. She has recommended quilting it with a large flower motif which will complement the Amy Butler fabric. Can't wait to see it all quilted.

Munki Munki Pajama Love

2011-12-08T20:50:00.000-08:00

Munki Munki flannel pajamas purchased at Marshall's tonight.

Mug Rug Fun!!

2011-12-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

I love making small projects like these Christmas tree mug rugs! Super fun and fast to make. These have already been gifted, which is good, because I was so tempted to keep one or two for myself.

Christmas Tree

2011-11-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

Many of you know that our daughter moved out six month ago and I've missed her immensely. Sure, she comes over to do laundry, but it's usually when we're not home. With all of us working, we see her very little.

I found this note stuck to the microwave this evening when I came home from work.

...and this.

Yes, our perfect little Christmas tree is up and the xmas stockings are hanging.

How perfect is that!!!

We love you !!

BMQG Pin Cushion Swap

2011-11-20T19:48:00.000-08:00

Had great fun this Saturday at the Bakersfield Modern Quilt Guild! We swapped handmade pin cushions. Below is the wonky log cabin pin cushion I made. This is the first swap I've particiapted in and I'm hooked! I can't wait for the next one.

I also did a bit of shopping at Strawberry Patches and Bolts to Binding.

Hummingbird Progress

2011-08-31T19:09:00.000-07:00

Doing a little sewing while listening to music. My Hummingbird quilt blocks are coming along nicely. I have about 3/4 of the blocks done. Ignore the rest of the mess.

I'm such a sap for love songs.

Pinless Curves

2011-08-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

After spending Saturday at the fabulous BMQG sew-in, I quickly realized I would have to find a different method other than pinning the curved pieces on my current project. When you have 1156 curved pieces to sew, you realize pinning will not work!!! Did I mention this is my first major project with curved seams?!
Sunday morning I woke up looking at different YouTube videos like the Curve Master. I also watched this video. Both very helpful and all I needed to attempt the pinless method for sewing curved seams. I will admit the first few were a disaster, but I think I've gotten the hang of it! Below are half my quilt blocks (50"x60").

Next Quilt

2011-08-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so hoping this doesn't become a UFO. There's not enough room in my closet for another UFO. Wish me lots of luck!

Mo' Country

2011-08-02T18:42:00.000-07:00

Catchy song....

Country Music...

2011-07-13T22:37:00.000-07:00

...I can go years without listening to Country music and it takes one song to get me hooked again...

Ribbon Pattern Weights

2011-06-25T18:14:00.000-07:00

Decided to make pattern weights using some ribbon, washers, and glue gun. Not my fabulous idea, but I can't remember where I found it. I think they turned out quite nicely. No more more patterns that shift or fly and land on the floor.

Pattern weights in action

Orange and Aqua Quilt

2011-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

I thought my orange and aqua quilt was complete, but I remeasured and I need to add one more row.

Zig Zag Quilt Binding Complete YAY!

2011-03-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

I have finished binding my zig zag comfort quilt. A couple of months ago our Strippers Friendship Group decided we would work on comfort quilts. We hit the guild stash and found some great fabrics. Each one of us has completed a quilt which will be turned in at our guild meeting. I'm hoping to share some pictures soon!

Do you think the husband would be upset if I decided to paint the fence in a zig zag pattern? I think it would look pretty cool!

String Quilt Progress

2011-01-01T23:46:00.000-08:00

How I'm loving this quilt. I've completed a dozen blocks!

A little tidbit about me...I like organization.

I would have more blocks sewn together if I didn't feel the need to organize my strip piles so they stay like this....

...instead of like this...

Fabric Collecting

2010-12-31T15:11:00.000-08:00

Do you wonder how a quilter begins collecting a particular fabric line? Sometimes it starts with a five year old UFO. As previously posted this string quilt started its life as a log cabin quilt.

I was amazed to have found the quilt shop tag lost among some of the left over fabrics. It gave me a date of 07/28/2005 and it gave me an idea of the fabric purchased - Buttercream Figs (Fig Tree Quilts)....and that's how the collecting begins. Although, I've incorporated non Fig Tree fabrics, I can see the majority being Fig Tree.

So, while ~~shopping~~ browsing the sale at Cottage Quilts I came across some Fig Tree. I'm happy to report I came home with some Fig Tree to add to my string quilt. It's not a line of fabric that I'm particularly attracted to, but it's growing on me. I'm weird that way. I gravitate towards brighter colors.

Snippets - aka scraps. I noticed they had a bin full of snippets which I purchased four bags of. I typically don't purchase scraps, because most quilters have enough scraps to last a few lifetimes. I noticed these snippets appear to be mostly Fig Tree. A snippet is exactly all I need to add that last corner strip to my block. Perfect!!

Sewing Fun

2010-12-30T09:28:00.000-08:00

...coffee, good oldies, and a sewing machine...what more could a girl ask for?!

Vacation Week

2010-12-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

Thought I would work on a UFO while I'm on vacation this week. Well, this UFO started its life as a log cabin quilt. A few years ago I had taken a class at Quilters Paradise to learn how to make a log cabin quilt. Unfortunately, I didn't purchase enough fabric for a large quilt and I was not happy with a lap size quilt. I like GINORMOUS quilts! I spent Monday taking the log cabin quilt top and blocks apart. I've added some fabrics from my stash and am thinking I need to purchase more since this quilt will be a king size quilt.

Playing with Accuquilt Dies

2010-12-19T08:45:00.000-08:00

Spent most of yesterday playing with the new dies.

4.5" Half square triangles. Love, love the blunt corners, makes for super easy sewing.

2.5" HST

2.5" squares

5" charm squares

...and this zig zag comfort quilt made out of HST.

Accuquilt Dies WOO HOO!!

2010-12-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

This box was at my front door waiting for me when I came home from work.

Look at all the goodies inside.

My favorite has to be the half square triangle. The possibilities are endless. Best part of these dies are the blunt corners. Makes sewing your 1/4" seam super fast and easy.

Stripper Friends...

2010-11-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

Let me clarify...."strippers" as in "fabric strips"...don't want you getting the wrong idea.

I thought I would work on the Drunkard's Path block that I will be demonstrating at our next group meeting. Well, I'm demonstrating cutting the fabric with the Accuquilt system. I purchased the die some time ago and have only played with making a block or two. Here is the start of an actual quilt. I can't imagine cutting the fabric for this particular pattern without my die cutter. Also, having a design wall/space is a must for laying out the blocks.

Can't wait to see you guys at the next meeting on December 2.

Baby Quilts!

2010-11-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

I just love making baby quilts! All I need are the babies, anyone have extras?!

Tula Pink Neptune Love

2010-11-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

I've come to love my LQS! I recently found this small stash at my local quilt shop and have decided I want to share. I just couldn't leave it at the shop lost among all the other bolts of fabric. It all came home with me. I'm hoping to keep some, swap some and sell some.

Big Butt Baby Pants!

2010-10-31T22:22:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit unsure why I decided to make this pair of pants, other than I fell in LOVE with the pattern. I certainly don't have a little man to wear them. I purchased the pattern from Rae here. She also has a Flickr group here. Go check it out!

Lunch & Binding

2010-10-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

As you may already know, binding a quilt is not a favorite of mine, but I'm getting much better. I've been working on my binding during my lunch break at work and I seem to be finishing a few of my unfinished quilts.

Binding complete on Crazy 9 patch quilt. Fresh out of the drier.

Binding complete on string baby quilt.

Heather Ross Studio Sale 2010 Package!

2010-10-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting with much anticipation for my package from the Heather Ross Studio sale since I received shipping notification earlier this week. I'm super excited about all I received. Heather Ross is AWESOME!!!

The One That Got Away!

2010-10-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

Marlene and I attended the Pacific International Quilt Show in Santa Clara over the weekend. We had a great time! Lots and lots of quilts and vendors. I even had a chance to meet Sandy Klop who designs American Jane for Moda. She is one of my all time favorite fabric designers. I purchased some fabric from her booth and received the American Jane red & white polka dot bag free with purchase. It's fabulous!!

Here is small sample of my American Jane fabric collection.

She inspired me to get an old UFO out of the closet. These little fish are paper pieced. I had a baby boy quilt in mind when I first started making the fish. I somehow managed to make a fish using a print that had flowers. I certainly did not want to leave her out out of the quilt. So, I came up with this lay out. She is leading the pack. I'm naming this quilt "The One That Got Away." Can you see all the little boy fish chasing (swimming) after her?!

It's all quilted. Almost complete with the exception of the binding.

Denyse Schmidt Patchwork Promenade

2010-10-12T21:02:00.000-07:00

I will admit that I was a bit hesitant to order this much of the Denyse Schmidt Patchwork Promenade fabric. Silly me, right?! After all, it's Denyse Schmidt!! I was just a bit unsure of the home dec weight. I'm so pleasantly surprised and happy I purchased it. It has such a nice feel/drape, not stiff as I had imagined it.

A few more Doll Quilts

2010-10-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

You know how at times you get an extra day off from work and you waste it away not doing much. Well, I'm proud to say I've had a very productive morning. I finished binding the last of the doll quilts I'll be turning in on Thursday. These little quilts can be so addicting!!

I'm hoping to finish a few items for the craft fair by the end of the day. Wish me luck!

Andover Designer Fabric at Jo-Ann's?

2010-10-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so when did Jo-Ann's start carrying designer fabric? I was a JoAnn's this afternoon and found this cute little bundle (x2) of the Andover Red Letter Day Lizzie House fabric collection. Absolutely adorable!

Mug Rug Fun!

2010-10-10T16:53:00.000-07:00

I recently joined the Mug Rug Swap Flickr Group. I'm a bit late for their latest swap, but thought it would make a great item for the raffle at our Thursday Guild meeting. This is such an ingenious idea. The mug rug is large enough to accommodate a cup/glass and a small snack (cookies, for me). This one measures about 5" x 9". I've added a mug, cookies, and a couple of Moda Bistro charm packs to complete it for the raffle. I will definitely be making more of these..such FUN!!!

Dr. Seuss - The Cat In The Hat

2010-10-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

This pretty little package was at my door step when I got home from work this evening! Ok, so I will admit, I have a thing for Dr. Seuss. This is one of three packages I'm expecting. It has been selling so fast that I've had to place orders from multiple shops. Many of the prints are on back order.

Now, to make room in the special shelves "For Future Grand Babies." I think I can move the stack of Moda fabric to a different shelf. By the way, California Closets did an awesome job with my closet. One of these days I'll show the whole closet and not just a little corner.

Dolly Quilts

2010-09-19T22:10:00.000-07:00

Three dolly cradle quilts. Approximate size 20"x20". All fabric came from my scrap bins.

Daisy in the Garden

2010-09-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

After all the thrifting and collecting of vintage linens, I've completed my crazy nine patch quilt, with the exception of the binding. I chose an all over quilting flower pattern which I thought was appropriate for the quilt. Added a single daisy, which makes me smile when I look at it.

Baby Items

2010-08-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

I made this little set to give to a coworker. This is his first grand baby.

Guild Meeting Bag

2010-08-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided I would make myself a bag for guild meetings. I used a modified Amy Butler pattern and embroidered the logo. I like the way it turned out! What do you think?

Vintage Singer 15-125

2010-08-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I've been doing a ~~little~~ lot of thrifting, so that I can complete my vintage linen crazy nine patch quilt (it's almost complete, yay!). The vintage sheet collection has gotten a ~~little~~ lot out of hand, but I'll leave that for another post. For the most part I've been able to pass on lots of great items while thrifting, but I just couldn't pass this one up. It's a vintage Singer 15-125. Don't you just love the color? As soon as I saw it, I knew it would come home with me. Not that I need to add another machine to my current collection, but just look at that color! Yes, it only sews a straight stitch, but it's perfection and not only that, it came with a complete box of attachments.

Simplicity Bias Tape Maker! A MUST HAVE!!

2010-08-07T13:56:00.000-07:00

Binding is not my favorite when making quilts. I guess it's because I hand sew my binding and it seems to take FOREVER. Not that I haven't tried machine binding, it's that I dislike the look of it. Another reason is having to fold and press what seems like miles and miles of 2.5" fabric strips.

Here is where my new Simplicity Bias Tape Maker comes in. My daughter is a great enabler and gave me the Simplicity Bias Tape Maker as a b-day gift. I'm amazed at how well it works. Now, I did go to Belinda's (A-1 Sewing) to purchase the Quilters tip as it does not come with it. She was super nice and gave me a quick lesson on how to use the machine.

Here, I have it all set to go. Yeah, I know, I don't have the fabric rolled on the spindle like the instructions recommend. I let my fabric just hang over the guide.

It took about three minutes to perfectly fold and press my binding fabric for a king size quilt. No more burned or steamed finger tips!! It's pretty AMAZING!!! A must have for anyone who quilts or does lots of binding.

I'm In Love!

2010-08-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm truly in love with this quilt. Quilting is all done and I'm NOT looking forward to the binding. Can someone send the binding fairy to my house? Ok, I'll stop complaining about the binding. I'm actually a bit excited about the binding this time around. My beautiful daughter gave me a Simplicity Binding machine for my birthday and I'm looking forward to trying it out. I'll let you know how I like it.

Metal Frame Coin Purse

2010-08-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

Here is the first of many metal frame coin purses I'll be making. I'm totally hooked on these. I can see so many great fabric choices and even some embroidery for these beauties. It measures 5" x 5".

Vintage Linens Quilt 2

2010-07-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

I was super excited about the last quilt I made using vintage linens I decided to quilt another. I love this print. Why don't they make linens like this anymore?! Look at these gorgeous flowers!!! My linen closets would be full of pretty linens if they made them like this. Instead, I have two sets of boring linens. Yes, you read right, only TWO sets. Just because, well, just because they're boring, plain sheets.

I'm using an all over stipple.

View from under the quilt frame. Yeah, I had to crawl under to snip some threads and took a shot. The back is pieced. I love the look of a pieced quilt back, but it can be a pain when you make ginormous quilts like I do. This one will finish at 100" x 106. Crazy, RIGHT?!

Magazines out of control!

2010-07-25T22:36:00.000-07:00

Like many of you, I enjoy magazines. Any kind of crafty magazine will do. The only problem is, they add up quickly. I've decided to go through them and keep those patterns that I like, hope to make one day, offer a new technique, or simply inspire me. I've started with my quilting magazines. I'm using sheet protectors and placing them in a binder. I just love flipping through the binder, because I know I like each and every one of the patterns.

Happy Dance

2010-07-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

I'm doing the happy dance! Quilt is fresh out of the drier and look how nice and wrinkly it came out. I just wish it wasn't 100° so I could crawl under it. I'll be making more of these.

Binding All Done YEAH!

2010-07-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

Binding is my least favorite part of making a quilt. It took everything I had to finish the binding, but it's all done. It's ready to be washed and dried. I can't wait unitl it comes out of the drier. I love the wrinkly look and feel of quilts. I don't know that this one will wrinkle much as I've used linens. We shall see!

Here is a pic of the back. I didn't have enough of the pink fabric, so I improvised. I like it!!

Hot off the Frame!

2010-06-27T22:41:00.000-07:00

I received my stitch regulator back from the repair shop. YAY! Had to test it out this weekend.

I've been collecting vintage linens for my crazy nine patch quilt. I have a couple of sheets that I think would make great quilt tops. Like this one. What do you think? Not bad for $2.95 or was that $1.95?! Just added a couple of borders. Unrolling the quilt off the frame is the second best thing about quilting. The first is fresh out of the drier.

Block 3 - How does your garden grow?

2010-06-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

Very, very, very slow. My Daisy Garden has not been growing much. Three whole blocks to be exact. But....

...look at what has been growing in the garden next door!!! I've been tending to my crazy nine patch flower garden made out of vintage linens. Yup, I was inspired by this crazy nine patch quilt. I haven't added the sashing yet. I'm unsure I want to add any sashing. I kind of like this crazy collage.

(Do you recognize any of the prints?)

A big THANK YOU to my AMAZING husband for my design wall. After many years of wishing for a design wall, he granted my wish on my birthday. It's 9' x 12'. It will accomodate a king size quilt or lots of smaller projects. I'm amazed how differently you view projects on a design wall as opposed to the floor.

Kona Green it Is!

2010-05-31T18:10:00.000-07:00

I've been on the fence with the Kona green fabric I'm using for the stem and leaves on my Grandmother's Daisy Garden blocks. I've decided to listen to my gut instinct and go for it. I've started the chain piecing process with the stem & leaves segment. It's the last segment to complete the block.

Block 2 - Grandmother's Daisy Garden

2010-05-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

I completed a second block of my Grandmother's Daisy Garden. I'm a bit iffy on the green I'm using for the stem and leaves. I may have to put a few more blocks together before I decide if I like it or not.

String paper piecing.

The stacks keep growing. YAY!!!

Spotlight - Fons & Porter Table Top Seam Ripper

2010-05-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

My daughter gave me this wonderful little gadget last Christmas. At the time, I didn't realize how much I would use it. The more I use it, the more I love it!! Makes quick work of separating your chain piecing.

Fons & Porter Table Top Seam Ripper

Seam ripper in action with Grandmother's Daisy Garden chain paper piecing.

Block 1 - Grandmother's Daisy Garden

2010-05-24T19:40:00.000-07:00

Many, many months ago I saw an episode of Fons & Porter's in which Jodie Davis presented her paper pieced quilt titled Grandmother's Daisy Garden. I fell in love with it! I think because I wish I was talented enough to hand piece a Grandmother's Garden quilt with all those hexagons. To my delight the paper piece patten is in the May/June 2010 issue of Fons & Porter. Below is block 1 of 36.

Anagel Babies - No Quilting Fabric Envelope

2010-05-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Summer and I spent the morning with a group of ladies at A-1 Sewing making the quilted envelopes for the Hinds Hospice Angel Babies program. It got me to thinking about making the envelopes without any quilting. How to accomplish this?! I wanted to attempt constructing one using the method used for making a tote. After all, the envelope is like a small tote. Instead of batting I have used an iron on interfacing and duck cloth. It gives it a nice sturdy feel. I'm happy with the end result. I'll have to check with Hinds Hospice to make sure they're acceptable before I continue using this method.

Baby Bath Towel

2010-05-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

Custom order for a baby bath towel. I love using my Babylock Coverstitch machine to attach the binding. The binding turns out perfect!

Black & White Quilt

2010-05-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

So, I wanted to show my binded quilt I turned in at the last Guild meeting for the Veterans Hospital. I debated on the red binding, but was happy with the end result.

SJVQ Guild Member Rebecca

2010-04-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I had a chance to meet Rebecca, a wonderful guild member who also has been working on fabric envelopes for the Hinds Hospice Angel Babies program. Below is a fabulous example of the 30+ envelopes she has donated to the program. Seriously, she does pretty amazing work!!!!

Angel Babies

2010-04-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finished three more fabric envelopes for the Hinds Hospice Angel Babies program. A small contribution to an amazing organization.

Hinds Hospice - Angel Babies Envelope Tutorial

2010-03-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

I'm offering this tutorial and pattern just because it's a wonderful service Hinds Hospice offers!!!

I am considering this the whole cloth method of making the fabric envelopes. I've uploaded the cutting & sewing instructions I received from Hinds Hospice as well as a pattern I drafted to Google docs. If you don't have a Google account you may need to register. It's free!

Click here to print/download the pattern/sewing instructions from Hinds Hospice.

Click here and here to print/download the pattern I drafted to go along with the tutorial I put together below. Please keep in mind this is my FIRST tutorial and pattern. I found this to be a good way for me to cut & sew the envelopes.

STEP 1: Print the pattern. I've uploaded two pdf's. They're labeled "Envelope Left Side" and "Envelope Right Side". You'll be joining the two pieces to make the body of the envelope. Due to the finished size (9x12) I had to split the pattern. NOTE: Make sure that when you go to print the pattern to check "None" on the page scaling option. If you don't, the pattern will not print out correctly. They should look like this.

STEP 2: Joining the left and right side to make one pattern piece that measures 9x13. I am allowing a half inch on each side for the seam allowance. I did not allow for any seam allowance for the front top as I will be binding it. I took the right side and cut on the line at the left side of the paper.

I used double sided scotch tape on the right side of the left pattern piece to attach the right side to it.

Of course you can attach the left and right pattern pieces any way you would like. It should look like this when you are done. Measure your pattern and make any adjustments at this time.

I trimmed along the outside lines. It should look like this once all sides are trimmed. It should measure 9x13.

STEP 3: I wanted to add a flap to the top of my pattern piece. I joined another left and right sides together. I know it's difficult to see, but I did include a flap piece on the top portion of the pattern. It's shaded a light gray. You should now have the flap and the body of the envelope.

I rounded the corners of my flap a bit more. I will be using my Babylock binding machine to add the binding. I get better results if the corners are a bit more rounded. You can add whatever style flap that works for you.

STEP 4: To finish the pattern I taped the flap to the top of the bottom pattern piece like so. You'll have one pattern piece.

STEP 5: Getting the fabric ready. I quilted an all over stippling pattern on my sandwich (top, batting, and backing).

STEP 6: Cutting out the envelopes. I folded the bottom edge of the fabric up about ten inches (it should be 9 inches, but I was bad and didn't straighten the edge). Also, if you made any adjustments to your pattern to include a seam allowance for the top front, your measurement will be different. Lay the bottom edge of the pattern on the fold.

I cut out three fabric envelopes in no time.

STEP 7: At this time you may wish to do a little embellishing. I used a bit of applique to embellish mine. See the cute little lion on the bottom left hand corner. Absolutely adorable, right?!

STEP 8: Adding the binding. Use the binding method that works best for you. I will admit I haven't perfected the binding technique on my sewing machine yet. I will be using my Babylock binding machine. For me, it's much easier as it folds and binds in one easy step. I started with binding the front top edge.

I then binded the sides and flap.

The binding has been attached to the sides and flap.

Trim, fold under, and sew the binding where it starts and ends. It should line up to the bottom edge of the fabric envelope.

STEP 9: Adding the closure. I chose to add a white snap instead of velcro.

STEP 10: I tested the size of the envelope by inserting a small stack of 8.5x11 paper. It fits perfectly!!!

I hope you've enjoyed this tutorial.

Hinds Hospice - Angel Babies

2010-03-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

In this month's SJV Quilters Guild Newsletter there was an article for a need of fabric envelopes and crocheted butterflies for the Angel Babies program at Hinds Hospice. I don't crochet, but I do sew. I contacted Lori with Hinds Hospice about a pattern. She mailed me general instructions along with the sizes. They are requesting two different sizes - 9x12 and 12x14. So, this past weekend I set out to sew a couple.

I started by making a pattern. I find it's much easier if I have a pattern. I'm making the 12x14 size.

Here is my prototype / first attempt. Not bad. I thought the flap was a bit short. Figured out I could do the binding on my Babylock binding machine.

Here is my second attempt. I added a bit of applique to coordinate with the fabric and made the flap a little bigger.

Here are the two for comparing the flaps.

Love Scrappy Bindings!

2010-02-14T14:09:00.000-08:00

Binding is finished! Yeah!!!!! It will be on its way to a new home on Tuesday!

New Project?! Oh No!

2010-02-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I said I would not start a new project until I had some of my unfinished projects completed. I NEVER said anything about NOT buying the fabric for a new project. Today, I received my Amy Butler "Daisy Chain" and Kona white fabric. I hope to make a cathedral windows quilt using this tutorial. I figured it will take me a loooong time to complete this quilt and that's ok!

Quilting makes the Quilt!

2010-02-04T20:07:00.000-08:00

Whether elaborate or very simple lines, quilting truly makes the quilt. Case in point, a couple of weeks ago I finished my in-laws quilt top and I was not happy. First, this is the ~~first~~ second quilt I've added embroidery to and I'm still learning about the best stabalizer to use. For this one, I used the No Show Mesh stabalizer by Floriani. Second, some of the fabric wrinkled, ALOT! No matter how much I pressed it remained a wrinkled mess (see pic below).

Reluctantly, I loaded it on to my quilt frame and quilted an all over stipple design trying not to think about all I had invested if I decided I didn't like it and it made its way to the trash bin. Well, I LOVE the all over stipple design, it makes the emboridery designs POP! I may have to try making more quilts with embroidery. All that's left is the binding. Hmmmm......shall we do purple binding?

UFO's

2010-01-10T11:58:00.000-08:00

Today, I decided I need to complete some of my UFO's before starting a new project. I have about 8 unfinished projects and that's too many! My first unfinished project is a queen size quilt for my mother in law that was started about a year ago or so. I thought I would add some embroidery to some of the blocks. Ok, it will be 36 blocks I will be adding the embroidery to. Below are a couple of the completed embroideries.

Black & White Quilt

2010-01-03T18:04:00.000-08:00

I've started another comfort quilt following this tutorial and using black & white fabrics. About 80% of the fabrics I'm using I picked up from the comfort quilt stash at Susan's house. The fabric stash is for any guild member who has a desire to make a "comfort quilt". Go check it out!

We are half way to our goal of 60 comfort quilts. Read more about it in this month's newsletter here.

Red, White & Blue!

2009-12-27T20:14:00.000-08:00

I've been working on quilts for our local Veterans which has prompted this special quilt for my father in law who is also a Veteran. I am following this tutorial for the wonky star block. I'm using Moda "The Hamptons" charm packs and Kona solids. Two down, 40 more blocks to go!

Binding Complete!

2009-12-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

Finished the binding in time for Christmas on this toddler quilt. I hope it makes a two year old little girl happy. There is something about polka dots that makes me happy!

Bibs

2009-12-02T19:33:00.000-08:00

I recently finished these bibs for a little princess.

Binding Complete

2009-11-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Completed the binding this weekend.

Finally Quilted

2009-10-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here is the quilt in all its quilted glory..... I need to add the binding and it should be ready for its new home at the Veterans Hospital.

Quilt for Veterans Hospital

2009-10-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

Here is my pieced "stacked coin" quilt top for the extended care unit at our local Veterans Hospital. Dining table not the best place to showcase quilt. More on the comfort quilts here. More to follow.....

Square in a Square Baby Quilt Top

2009-10-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend I worked on piecing together this baby quilt top. I had some left over fabric from this diaper bag and managed to add a bit more fabric for this square in a square quilt top. I'm hoping to have some time during the week to quilt it. Can't wait until it's all quilted.

Hedgehog & Mushrooms What FUN!

2009-09-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

This evening I finished binding this baby / toddler quilt. How cute is this little hedgie?! Absolutely adorable! I even added a bit of brown minkee. I used the Candy & Kisses cotton prints from Moda. I'm pretty pleased with the hedgehog quilting. I'll admit some of them look more like porcupines than hedgies. Also, check out the appliqued mushrooms. I just love all the little details, like the blanket stitch around the mushroom tops, the 3D ear, the little patch of flower on the tip of its nose. Makes me smile! Patchwork for the back.

Flower Applique Quilt

2009-09-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

I've finished the quilting on a flower applique baby/toddler quilt. I still need to add the binding but didn't have enough of the white with red polka dot fabric. I hope you can see from the pictures the quilting flower pattern I chose. It goes pefect with the quilt!

Learning to Paper Piece.

2009-09-05T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today, I thought I would teach myself how to paper piece. I went in to my personal library and found a book and magazine to help me. The book offered detailed instruction and the magazine offered the pattern. I thought the fish pattern would be an easy one to start with.

Here is my first one. I used one of my favorite fabric lines, Recess by American Jane. What do you think? I'm liking it!

My name is Norma, and I have a problem. They do say the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. Well, I can't stop making these! They are so addicting! I've decided it would make the pefect quilt for a baby boy, with the exception of that little fish in the center...too girly with the flower print. This one may be the beginning of a baby girl fish quilt.

My favorite was this fish. It appears he may be having an identity crisis. Ok, not really...I was just trying to use all my super tiny scraps. Stay tune for the finished product in the near future.

Creations in Action!

2009-08-30T18:06:00.000-07:00

I can't contain my excitement!! Action shots of my creations! She is so adorable!!!! Thank you so much Michelle for allowing me to share. Here is the original post on how I created this little dress.

Diaper Bag

2009-08-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

Just finished! Hot off the sewing machine. There was a change of plans. I had every intention of using this fabric but when I went to cut the pattern, I was short 3 inches. I thought not a problem, I would just place an order for some additional yardage. Was I wrong, the print is difficult to find and when I did find and purchased it, the colors weren't the same. Strange, but I guess becasue it was from a different bolt there's a bit of difference in colors. Fortunately, I found this fabric with pink and brown butterflies and flowers. I used the brown and pink polka dots for the lining and the pockets. Hope you like it!

Bloomers for Rebekah

2009-08-27T22:09:00.000-07:00

I appliqued a flower to the back of the bloomers.

Pink and Brown Fabric

2009-08-24T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here are two sets for the pink and brown. I will be adding some additional coordinating fabrics to these sets. I know it's a bit difficult to choose from pics so, if you would like to come by my house and look at the fabrics just let me know. I'll try posting the black and white fabrics later this afternoon.

Embroidery Alpha

2009-08-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

Here is some of the alphas in pink and brown. The second to the last is my favorite. What do you think? I can also come up with many more. These are just a few.

Queen Size Quilt!

2009-08-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

This one I made for my daughter's room. It's much tougher quilting large items....maybe that's why I enjoy baby quilts! I've used a wonderful combination of browns, aquas, greens. I have quite a bit of this fabric left over, so look for a future baby quilt!

Birdie Round Neck Top / Dress

2009-08-19T18:26:00.000-07:00

I truly enjoyed making this wonderful little top / dress. I incorporated several sewing techniques. I machine embroidered the branch and the leaf, where I machine appliqued a little birdie using the same fabric. Used the spanish hemstitch to join the bottom band to the body. Added some hand embroidery to the center front. The best part of this little garment, it can go from summer to winter by adding a little turtle neck or long sleeve undershirt.

Baby Girl Quilt!

2009-08-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a baby quilt. I enjoy using bright colors for babies! I've used the pinks, browns, greens. For the back I used a white with pink polka dots. Although, I enjoy traditional quilting, I prefer the modern look of quilts.