Part of the fun of blog giveaways is seeing what the hosting blogger wants you to do to enter. You will have several chances to enter which will help ME too! Telling you how this project developed for me will allow me to gain some valuable insights from my readers. I hope you will find some humor in my mistakes as a novice.
When I first signed up to be a part of the bloggers giveaway, I thought how fun this would be! I like to create gifts and enjoy "meeting" new people. Then reality set-in... I realized I had to have my giveaway ready by Oct. 1st and that was only a week to get something together. YIKES!! Getting the "big eye" is always a challenge for me. I think I can do more in less time than it actually takes. Working full time and commuting 3 hours a day doesn't leave much playtime, but this is something I REALLY wanted to do. So, being stubborn as I am, I went full steam ahead.
While I realize this is a "Fall" giveaway, cooler weather always makes me start thinking of the coming months of snow & Christmas. Being a big fan of everything Christmas and snowmen, my fabric stash is mostly Christmas related. So I thought, why not make something for Christmas?
While searching for ideas, I spied a snowman applique pattern for three mini quilts that was just adorable. I had all the fabrics, but I didn't have the fusing or any experience!! :O I've always wanted to try my hand at applique, but never had the nerve. But I wanted to be bold and take the chance.. (Feel free to insert foreboding music here.)
Here's my first attempt. Unexperience in this applique world, I made a "fatal" mistake. I bought the wrong fusing.. the no-sew kind.. So, yeah, you guessed it. My pieces were all cut, assembled and layered "just so" cute.
With the pieces ironed in place, I head to my sewing machine only to find You really CAN'T sew it.. it's rather impossible and leaves large needle holes.. Lesson learned the hard way.. Strike One.. Attempt Two: Get the Heat-n-Bond LIGHT and start again. This time I modified the original design to make one bigger wall hanging. I also added some snow and made some other changes. This second attempt is looking awfully cute!
However, my brand-new quilting machine does not have a zigzag, so I thought hand stitching would be nice. Normally, I can hand stitch pretty well, but for whatever reason, it was NOT working. Maybe the stress of the deadline?? So I attempt to stitch on the machine. A no-go there too. It wasn't looking good!!
Ugh! Strike TWO!! What to do now? It's Tuesday evening and panic is beginning to set in.. The snowman project idea is totally scrapped and a new project emerges. A Christmas table runner!! This time I tried to keep it simple for time's sake. After cutting my squares and sewing the blocks together (the first time) I didn't like the arrangment. Too much green and not enough red. The rows were partially disassembled and more fabric was added. I like this result much better. After a late night of stitching until 2 AM this morning, the little runner is "nearly" complete. I'll finish stitching the binding on the back today.
Hurried stitching doesn't make for perfection, but it's cute and soft. I call the design "Bows & Boxes"... When viewed from an angle, the little pairs of smaller squares look like bows perched on top of a gift. (The winner may choose the runner or 4 fat quarters of the same material.)
I hope you enjoyed a giggle or two with my mistakes. Enough of my ramblings onto the the fun!!
You may choose to enter by completing as few or as many of the options below. Be sure to include your email if you have your settings at "No-Reply". (If you are unsure of your settings, SewCalGal has a wonderful tutorial on her page: http://sewcalgal.blogspot.com/p/giveaways.html just scroll down about halfway.)
Additional prizes may be given to most original &/or helpful comments. *Ü* Leave your comments HERE at THIS POST to be entered to win. Here you go 10 chances to WIN.
1. Be a follower of my blog and leave a comment that you are.
2. Post a comment & link on your blog about my giveaway and leave a link to the post here.
3. Share your ideas/tips on the following. Each comment/post should contain only one subject and therefore will be a different entry. After the closing of the contest, I hope to compile the best comments on each subject and share with the group.
- I've read many books, websites, magazines and find conflicting information on pressing seams. Some say to the darker fabric and some say always open/flat. Which do you prefer and why or when (in certain circumstances).
- What is your favorite applique technique and why?
- Besides the Accuquilt cutters and dies that we are ALL trying to win, what is your favorite new quilting tool and why.
- Share an idea for uses of everyday items recycled for quilting/sewing function.
- Some quilters prefer to prewash all the fabrics before and some do not. What is your preference and why?
- Cotton or Polyester batting and why?
- Explain the "One Block Wonder" technique. I've searched for it online, but no luck.
Good luck to all of you. I'll be "seeing" you on the other blogs, too! Click on the scarecrow on the right to visit all list of participants.
Happy Blog Hopping!
I am and have been a follower!
ReplyDeleteI prefer to press my seams to one side but it isn't always the darker side. I pay attention that connecting seams will lay opposite of each other, thus reducing the bulk of fabric at intersections. I think pressing to one side makes the seams stronger in a quilt
ReplyDeleteI prewash all of my fabrics. I don't want to have the fabric dyes run the first time I wash a quilt and have the quilt ruined. I wash the fabric in the same settings that I would wash the completed quilt.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely cotton batting! I like the warmth and feel that it creates for a quilt. However, with that said, I would use a high loft polyester batting for most hand quilted quilts.
ReplyDeleteFrom the book I have, the One Block Wonder is a quilt made of one very large block. The book I have is Sew One and You're Done by Evelyn Sloppy
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance to win.. When you get a chance check out my giveaway.
ReplyDeleteYou are funny, you remind me of my step daughter, your posts sounds like one of hers..
ReplyDeleteI am now a follower
ReplyDeletethe link on my site is for all the sites, nanbon44.blogspot.com you can also enter to win a quilt kit
ReplyDeletedepends on what I am making as to which way I iron the seams,, no set rules, mainly to the darkest fabric, unless I need to but two together and then I press seam in different directions to get a perfect point.
ReplyDeletei haven't done that much applique, I like using fusable web and a machine applique stitch stitch, I am not much for hand sewing
ReplyDeletefavorite tool other than accuquilt, is the simplicity bias tape maker, I use this machine so much.... saves me from burnt fingers
ReplyDeleteI pre wash and iron my fabrics, one is to get excess color out and the other is to make sure fabric dosen't shrink
ReplyDeleterecycle, I keep old mugs on my desk area, one for scissors, one for rotary cutters, one for marking pencils and one for seam rippers. And My grandson made me a nifty pin cushion with a magnet needle holder in a recycled mint tin. He decorated the outside with my scrap fabrics...he made one for his mom too...so cute
ReplyDeletedepending where the quilt is going decides what batting to use. I use polyester for the nursing homes, they prefer it for some reason and most family quilts I use pre shrunk cotton batting.
ReplyDeleteI love the one block wonder blocks, they look like a three D block. kind of a block with a window you can see into the window. I never tried them but Amazon has the books..
ReplyDeleteOH I forgot, prefer the fabric but either would be great to win, I really want the snow men, daughter collects them,,,,
ReplyDeleteI have become a follower on your blog. I truly commend you for trying something new for a giveaway--I am such a chicken. Keep at it--use the satin or button hole stitch around your snowmen. They really are cute.
ReplyDeleteNew follower!
ReplyDeletethanks for the chance!
fsarah09 at gmail dot com
I had to laugh at your post - I am ALWAYS last minute Annie, trying to finish something I should have started weeks ago! Oh well!
ReplyDeleteAn answer to one of your questions - I do not pre-wash my fabrics - I think they get more "crinkley" when you are done with the quilt. I wash my quilts before I give them away :)
Thanks for a lovely giveaway and for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteMicki
Hi Julie, I've signed up to stalk...er, follow your blog!
ReplyDeleteI like to use cotton batting for quilts as I like natural fibers. If I am making a wallhanging, I will use polyester batting because I found that it will hang better. Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you need to prewash fabrics today if your purchase is from a reputable manufacturer. Today's fabrics are pretty well colorfast; if you are doubtful, test a small piece by placing it in a small bowl of water, microwave it for 1 minute, then check the fabric for color run after 20 minutes. Presto...no need to prewash!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance to win your giveaway!
Use a plastic silverware tray to store leftover strips for log cabin blocks!
ReplyDeleteWrap your binding around a toilet paper tube to store. When ready to use, place the tube on the upright spool of your sewing machine....no tangled binding!
ReplyDeleteI love your table runner. I didn't enter the giveaway; tried to at the last minute but I was too late thankfully. I would have been following your path, only probably more frantic. I've become a new follower. Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteSeams - depends on what you're doing. If there is a lot of seams coming together and a lot of bulk, open is usually the best. Otherwise to one side makes it easier to match up seams. And with some light fabrics the seams will show through if they are ironed that direction.
ReplyDeleteApplique - definitely needle turn hand applique. It's slower but very soothing and I like the look of it better. I don't really enjoy fusible web - I seem to get it everywhere and it seems to wast a lot of fabric - but that may just be inexperience.
ReplyDeleteNew tool - That Purple Thang. I was of the persuasion that it wasn't worth spending money on such a tool because an old pen or the letter opener would work just as well. Then I got to try one at a quilt retreat and I was sold - or at least a Purple Thang was soon sold to me.
ReplyDeleteWashing - I almost always wash. You have to pick one way and stick to it I believe, otherwise you'll have some fabrics shrinking and some not. I don't like the stiffness of some new materials, although I know lots of people say it is easier to work with for some projects.
ReplyDeleteOne block wonder - You use one fabric. You cut six strips which are identical - using whatever stands out on the fabric to match them up. Then you cut triangles from the stacked strips. You end up with sets of six identical triangles. When formed into a block they give a kaleidoscope effect. To join them you sew two sets of three blocks but then just pin the two halves together. Once you've decided on layout you sew them together in vertical strips, then sew the strips together. Easier for piecing. There are several books on the subject. The one I have is One Block Wonders Encore by Maxine Rosenthal and Joy Pelzmann.
ReplyDeleteI am a new follower of your blog or in my mind, you have now become a member of my "avoidance" squad...those blogs that help me avoid chores b/c I NEED to see what is happening with you. Why? B/C you are brave enough to show your mistakes. By the way, I love the snowmen mistakes and all. cwhippc@aol.com
ReplyDeleteI wish I was better at applique!
ReplyDeleteAll mine seem to include bondaweb!
Gill
I have had such a laugh reading about your calamities....I'm so glad I'm not the only one who has disasters.
ReplyDeleteI do applique so thought I'd answer that question. I always use blanket stitch - yes I know it is very visible but I find it therapeutic sitting stitching away. I travel a lot for work and I can be spotted sitting on the train with my little sewing bag working on my latest project.
Your story made me laugh because I started two Christmas wall panels last year thinking they would take no time at all but I didn't get them finished so they are my current train journey projects and I am on track to finish them by Christmas....but which Christmas!!! You can see them on my blog and they aren't hugely complicated but are taking a huge amount of stitching.
I love your story about the snowmen. Just the sort of thing that happens to me.
ReplyDeletePressing:
ReplyDeleteI normally press to the darker fabric, but will diviate from this on occassion. For example, when sewing rows together, I like to have my seams going in opposite directions so the 'nest' nicely and lay flat, so if I have to, the seams on the second row will be ironed in the opposite direction regardless of lt/dk. I recently read the tip of ironing the seams open in things like runners and table mats so things placed on them will sit flat. I made a candle mat once where I ironed to one side and then when I set the candle on it..it tipped a bit...not nice....so ironing open would have made sense.
Applique technique:
ReplyDeleteI like any of them that don't require other stuff like glue and starch etc. I"ve done a bit of reversible applique and needle turn..I like those 'quiet' type projects..I'm just not great at it yet :)
Sewing Tool:
ReplyDeletethe INTERNET!!! What a great place for inspiration and ideas and reviews of all those gadgets that we wonder about....of course I spend way too much time there!
Recycling:
ReplyDeleteMost recent recycle project was a baby 'crinkle' toy. I used a candy wrapper as the crinkle and flannel and ribbon around the edges for sensory stimulation...some of those ribbons were recycled too from other packages....
Washing:
ReplyDeleteI DO prewash everything just to remove the chemicals from processing, preshrinking and overdying. Just seems safer to me and also, when inspiration hits, I don't have to wait to wash anything before beginning a project.
Batting:
ReplyDeleteI'm not adept at battings yet...I use anything on sale or whatever is available in my neck of the backwoods! Poly seems to make a 'softer' feel quilt and cotton is stiffer it seems. but again, I don't know much about the differences. I just don't like using the higher loft battings in a quilt..it's too poofy for a quilt. better for comforters.
One block wonders;
ReplyDeleteI believe this is using a fabric with a repeat and folding 6-8 layers together pinning exactly over the repeat and cutting the wedges. THen sew the wedges together to form flower or kaleidoscope looking blocks. Using only that one print fabric, you get the different colors in it..they are wonderful looking quilts. You need lots of yardage though to make the quilt.
I usually wash fabric that will be in a bed quilt or for clothing. If it is a wall hanging, I don't bother as it seems easier to cut and sew the pieces that way.
ReplyDeleteHere are some recycling ideas. When my daughters outgrew the little snap hair clips, I have added them to my binding clips pile. when i pick up one of the fancy or colorful ones, they always make me remember when they were little and it makes me smile.
ReplyDeleteI am now a follower. Go easy on yourself. Mistakes help us to grow.
ReplyDeleteI had to giggle at your post ! It sounds like me! I am new to blogging and was not able to be in time for this give away but hope to next year! I will answer the cutter question in a fashion! I began quilting when I was 10 and at that time there were no cutters except you scissors! I stopped quilting when I had my kids and now that they are older I am getting back into all kinds of sewing. As I travel blog land I find all of these wonderful ideas for cutting and piecing and I am amazed! I have to say that winning a GO! would be lovely but my newest favourite quilting tool is actually a book on hand stitches ! It is a great resource and I am enjoying the process. (I haven't yet tried machine quilting!) I am soooo behind!
ReplyDeleteOh man!! I think we have all been there for deadlines!!! Loved the snowmen though.
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower.
ReplyDeleteI have always done the needleturn applique. I guess it is just because that is the way I learned to applique and I like that the fabrics are soft when finished.
ReplyDeleteFor the most part I press my seams open. It makes it much easier to match up points and really reduces the bulk.
ReplyDeleteI really want to get some of those new rulers that sharpen the cutting blade as you use it. Fabulous idea!!!!
ReplyDeleteRecycled idea?? It is great to save up all of those scraps, stuff them into an old pillowcase and sew the end up. The rescues can use them for pet beds.
ReplyDeleteI will prewash fabrics if they are a color that will bleed. I also will wash any fabrics that will shrink greatly - like flannel. Otherwise I like to wash the completed quilt and let it shrink up.
ReplyDeleteI love cotton batting for the way it quilts as well as the feel the quilt has when finished.
ReplyDeleteSo I'm a still a beginner quilter, but I press the seams to the side, alternating direction by rows. It's what I've seen taught the most. The only time I've heard open seams pressed recommended is in piecing binding strips. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great giveaway.
~Teresa
Favorite applique technique...Starch, starch, starch, then cut, then apply, and I like to just do a single straight stitch just inside of the edge, it will give a 'frilly' look when washed, and I like that. Plus, it's easy. But I also really like the look of a blanket stitch around applique...so cute! Natalie at Piece N Quilt has a great applique tutorial...she's like the applique master. :)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.piecenquilt.blogspot.com/
Well...my favorite quilting tool is actually one I don't have right now. I had been 'borrowing' (secretly trying to keep forever), my sister's rotary cutter and mat. Alas...she finally asked for it back. I didn't realize how much easier and straighter a rotary cutter is than traditional old scissors!! I miss it, and NEED to go get a replacement of my OWN! :)
ReplyDelete~Teresa
I'm going to try to use old, ugly, or no longer used cotton blankets as batting. I also look at all fabric items differently, like old shirts as new items for my daughter. Or she has some old princess shirts that no longer fit, cut out the princess and use it as an applique. So many ways to reuse the stuff we already have sitting around the house. :)
ReplyDelete~Teresa
I always pre-wash my fabric. I don't know how you would avoid shrinkage otherwise. But I did just learn some new tricks to help fraying in the wash...clip the corners of the fabric, serge or zigzag the raw edges. I hate losing fabric to the wash! :)
ReplyDelete~Teresa
Almost always cotton batting. I just think it feels so much nicer. I've heard it said that it's supposed to be warmer too. And it's just so much more natural. :)
ReplyDelete~Teresa
One Block Wonder!???! I've never heard of it. That would be interesting to learn about though.
ReplyDelete~Teresa
Well I cant give you any advice as I have only been quilting for about 6 months, more like I will get advice from you. But I have researched and researched on the internet and I always try and iron to the dark side ohhh I sound like Darth Vader
ReplyDeleteI have never prewashed fabric because as soon as it arrives I can't wait to start cutting it!!
ReplyDeleteI am now a follower, not sure if you will ship this prize overseas but you made me laugh about your mistakes....and made me feel better about mine.
ReplyDeleteMy favourite quilting tool is the rotary cutter, don't think I would enjoy quilting as much if I had to cut everything out with scissors. But it is closely followed by my laptop, without the internet and all the tutorials on here I would never have got started and there isn't a day goes by that I am not looking for advice from somewhere.
ReplyDeleteI've recycled Aldi stock cube boxes, they come in a lovely green (vegetable) and red (beef) and I use them for all my "bits" that I have on my sewing table, bobbins, feet, ripper, tape measure etc etc so everything is always to hand and not just kicking around my table.
ReplyDeleteFinally, I have only done one quilt and I have used cotton batting as, again, it was recommended the most by other quilters on "the net".
ReplyDeleteFound this on the internet, dont know if it helps
ReplyDeletehttp://encue.blogspot.com/2009/07/one-block-wonder.html
I think your tries were lovely regardless of the mistakes. We've all been there.
ReplyDeleteMy first dose:
- I've read many books, websites, magazines and find conflicting information on pressing seams. Some say to the darker fabric and some say always open/flat. Which do you prefer and why or when (in certain circumstances).
My pressing method, after 3 years, depends one 2 things: 1) what my quilting design will be if I know it ahead of time and 2) what the design of the top is.
If I want rows, seams to one side make it easier for me to nestle corners together. If I am paperpiecing, one side is easiest for me to maintain (dark or light doesn't matter), and finally, if there are triangles, lots of angles, etc. I often consider open seams at least in part of it so it reduces seam bulk.
All things cosidered, if I'm looking at a basic quilt top, I think 1st, seam bulk and 2nd, pressing to darker colors.
- What is your favorite applique technique and why?
ReplyDeleteCurrently my favorite is the second method you used but I have a zig-zag stitch. :) lol
Why? Because I can't do hand applique yet but I will someday.
I follow your blog.
ReplyDeleteemilliepeters(at)yahoo(dot)com
Recently I have found lots of clothes that my huband and I no longer wear, so I have recycled them into baby bibs. Now we have tons of very cute baby bibs that are made out of our old t-shirts. Love it!!
ReplyDeleteemilliepeters(at)yahoo(dot)com
I'm a new follower! I can't wait to read the post about the comment complilation!
ReplyDeleteI press to the darker, or to nestle seams. I do this to save time. Pressing open is too time-consuming and difficult.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite applique technique is the blanket-stitch! I'm too slow to do needle-turn, and too slow and clumsy to do a tight zigzag. I tense up and it hurts my shoulder blades! I need more practice at applique in general though!
ReplyDeleteI believe the One Block Wonder is you take a piece of really busy fabric, border-style preferred. Then, you cut it up different ways and assemble it and you can make several different colored blocks from one piece of fabric. Then, you combine all the bocks into a quilt and it looks amazing because it kinda matches but not exactly.
ReplyDeleteNow, I could be completly wrong, but if I am, then it makes for an interesting answer!
I guess my favorite quilting tool is blogs! Inspiration, stories, techniques, videos, and tutorials. It doesn't get any better than that! Truthfully, it's the quilting tool I use most often!
ReplyDeleteI'm not a pre-washer. I like the feeling of new fabric in my hands. Also, I tend to buy small pieces of fabric, so pre-washer just makes them unravel. Also, I love that crinkly look when you first wash a quilt and the fabric shrinks just a bit.
ReplyDeleteA recycling idea? Well, I just bought a really cute black sequined shirt from Goodwill. It fit perfectly and looked totally gorgeous. Then it shrank. Big time. So I re-purposed the shirt into leg warmer. I wear them with high heels to a club. A little 80s trendy, but that's the look right now!
ReplyDeleteI'm a follower. thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteBillie
My preference is actually wool batting. I love its loft and how it quilts. My least favorite is poly batting. It has a nice loft but it isnt really breathable and it is annoying to lay out and baste.
ReplyDeleteI do machine applique. I use the fusible and stitch around with the machine. It comes out looking nice and I have tried the turning under/hand stitch method and it did NOT look good.
ReplyDeleteU use recycled formula containers for trash. It works really well for me since I do a lot of hand work and need a small thing to tote around for threads. I use almost every scrap I have. I have a bag for coiled rope trivets, laundry baskets for crumbs.
ReplyDeleteI like to press open the seams - my machine likes it!
ReplyDeleteEDGE Rulers!
ReplyDeleteprewash - to be on the safer side
ReplyDeleteCotton - I hate polyester!
ReplyDeletecotton batting, I like how it makes the quilt looks after it has been washed. I always prewash fabrics
ReplyDeleteI am a follower!
ReplyDeleteI press seams to the dark side, unless there will be more then 4 fabrics at a particular intersection, then I will press open - doesn't leave a lump that way.
ReplyDeleteFusible, raw-edge applique! I hate hand work, it's soooooo slow!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite quilting tool is my longarm, an Innova 18" with Lightning Stitch!! Makes quilting a joy!!!
ReplyDeleteI wind my binding on an empty toilet paper tube, run some selvage through the tube and tie it around my neck. Makes for a no-tangle when I'm sewing the binding on my quilts.
ReplyDeleteI prewash all my fabrics to get the chemicals out of them. I've read that because of the economy, fabrics are spending more time in warehouses and are having more chemicals applied to them to keep the bugs out of them. YUCK!!!
ReplyDeleteBatting...depends on the look I am going for and what the quilt will be used for. Usually I use 100% cotton or 100% wool for quilts for beds, but for wallhangings I will use 2 battings, one polyester and one wool, because the polyester will give more definition to my quilting.
ReplyDeleteI am a follower-thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteneece quiltqueen1@bluemarble.net My favorite way to applique is to have someone else do it.HA-HA-HA Seriously, having been a crafter forever needle turn is what I"ve always used. To me it's a no brainer
ReplyDeleteJust started following your blog! Hope to learn alot about quilting as I am working on my first ever project. Can not add alot to all your qestions ... but will try!
ReplyDeleteLove the cute tablerunenr, btw.
Thanks for the giveaway. And if you want to come by my blog and enter my
giveaways ... you could win
some custom-made buttons ... or a teacozy ...
Have a lovely week!
ulli-xox[at]web[dot]de
Well, I chose cotton batting for my first project. I do not like using polyester for anything really. I rather like natural materials ...
ReplyDeleteAs my experience with quilting is very limited ... err, or not-yet-existent ... I searched for an informative post for you that I liked when I came across it:
http://obsessivelystitching.blogspot.com/2010/04/1st-quilt-ever-batting.html
I love the Obsessively stitching blog and I think she explains many things very well. Maybe it will be helpful to you, too.
ulli-xox[at]web[dot]de
I always wash all my fabric. I do not use it just for quilting but for other sewing projects, too. For the other projects I need the fabric prewashed. Some fabrics shrink differently. I just like to be on the save side ...
ReplyDeleteulli-xox[at]web[dot]de
Some idea to recycle everday items for sewing ...
ReplyDeleteI use parchment paper - the kind you use for baking - to copy patterns. Works great, especially for smaller ones.
I have heard that garden gloves might work as quilting gloves. But have not tried that one myself.
You can use pretty much anything heavy as pattern weights.
ulli-xox[at]web[dot]de
Favourite applique technique:
ReplyDeleteI love hand appliquing. It is very relaxing! And to me easier than machine appliquing.
Also I like to use knitts for appliquing. As it does not unravel it is easier to sew on and you can use other stitch than just blanket stitch ...
ulli-xox[at]web[dot]de
I'm a following you!
ReplyDeleteokay - now, nobody throw bobbins at me but I'm not a presser. I've found that I have better luck making the decision as it begins its path through the needle as to which way is going to help the seam line up. In the class I took, the instructor had it all mapped out - to the dark isn't always the way it needs to be.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite applique technique is to machine blanket stitch around BIG pieces. I've done circles, hearts and cats. I've taken on some smaller detailed items recently and wished I'd used the no sew stuff for them.
ReplyDeletemy favorite quilting tool is my husband. He often presses and washes my fabric. Will thread needles, fix whatever when I break it, holds my quilt when it's slidding off the table and is a fountain of useless information that I sometimes find helpful. He's a quilter too and will occasionally part with his super secret stash if I really really need someting.
ReplyDeleteRecylce item: I have an old boyscout tin that holds my buttons, a picnic basket for fabric, a paintcan with the brushcups for my tools, a tub for magazines. I've cut up shirts and jeans to make quilts. use old blankets for batting, cereal boxes to cut templates, even screw drivers or punches work well as stilletos to guide the fabric.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance to win! I am a follower!
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower, thanks. Kathy
ReplyDeleteI prefer to press my seams to one side but it isn't always the darker side. I pay attention that connecting seams will lay opposite of each other, thus reducing the bulk of fabric at intersections.
ReplyDeleteI try to use cotton batting. I was told it is warm, holds together better and you don't need to quilt as close together as with poly.
ReplyDeleteOh man! You are super persistent and I am proud of you for pushing through on this project!!! The tip I like best came from the Missouri Star Quilt Co video tutorial when she said (in her Darth Vader voice) "press to the dahrk side, always to the dahrk side"! That has stuck with me ever since! lol
ReplyDeleteThanks for a chance to win that lovely table runner!
I am a new follower. I loved your story. I think everyone has a story like that. It is fun to read someone else's from time to time. Thanks for the chance to win you SUCCESSFUL project.
ReplyDeleteI am a new follower...love those cows at the bottom of your page! WOW! ♥
ReplyDeleteHere's the best tip I can give you for the questions you asked...it's going to be SO great for me...and I know it will be for all of you! Copy and paste all of the wonderful comments onto Published, print it out and keep it in your sewing folder! I am SO thrilled to have so many great ideas! Thanks! ♥
ReplyDeleteI prewash fabric yardage. I do not prewash precuts. I don't like the idea of fabric dye runs and shrinkage.
ReplyDeleteI prefer to press my seams to one side, usually darker, depending upon the block so as to avoid bulk. Sometimes I press the seam open. Sometimes press the seam to get a raised effect, such as pieced flowers with curved seams and tiny pieces.
ReplyDeleteI use polyester batting because it is affordable and easier to buy as needed, good for Florida, easier to handquilt, and some loft gives texture to the quilt (makes it soft).
ReplyDeleteI have done applique once (unfinished project) and it was needleturn applique. I like that the fabrics are soft and finished, and my sewing machine is pretty much a straight stitch temperamental metal tank.
ReplyDeleteI do not know about One Block Wonder either.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite "thing" is to recycle items for sewing use - the top of a large plastic coffee container or pastry container becomes a tool caddy for whereever I sit. Prescription bottles hold sharps for the garbage. Wipes containers store fabric trimmings and thread before being thrown away. Any "paper goods" - clear plastic, tissue paper, shirt card boards, packing paper - gets used for quilting templates or pattern templates or paper piecing or keeping little pieces from getting sucked into the sewing machine. Boot boxes store project materials - those WIP that stay out in boxed stacks.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite quilting tool is my large self-healing cutting mat - it was my last year's Christmas present and is so smooth - my mother stopped using hers and uses mine now.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting about your trials with the snowmen. It is nice to know that other people have issues to overcome and how those were resolved. Thank you for this lovely prize for the Fall Into Fall giveaway. alternate email mlwright29 (at) hotmail (dot) com
ReplyDeleteFirst off, I am a new follower!
ReplyDeletewww.journialong.com
I always prewash and use a color catcher sheet!
ReplyDeletewww.journialong.com
Thank you for posting your trials and learning, even though you are experienced. I am relatively new to quilting and it is an encouragement.
ReplyDeleteI am fighting with my nesting of seams, so at this point, I iron the way that works for that particular project, being watchful of bulkiness not being an obstical.
www.journialong.com
I love that you are willing to share your process...it helps all of us not make the same mistakes!! I am a follower of your blog
ReplyDeletesusan(at)mathisons(dot)org
I definitely like Cotton batting over polyester but I am currently working with bamboo batting and like it as well - soft and it sticks to the fabric like cotton batting.
ReplyDeletesusan(at)mathisons(dot)org
I like raw edge applique but I have been looking at techniques for hand turn applique that are tempting me to try it also - not much help am I? sorry about that. I am not sure why your machine doesn't have a zigzag stitch...how frustrating.
ReplyDeletesusan(at)mathisons(dot)org
there are all kinds of "rules" in quilting but ironing the seams really is flexible unless you are locking to another piece, then it really is important to iron them as the pattern suggests so that you reduce the frustration of not matching the points and edges. otherwise, I think you have to go with what works best for your sewing and quilting - too much fabric in one place is VERY frustrating.
ReplyDeletesusan(at)mathisons(dot)org
I prewash for all children's or baby's projects or batiks that I think might run in the wash. I do not prewash for wall hangings because the stiffness really helps with small applique projects. Hope that helps. i do have a friend who never prewashes her fabric that has just noticed that when it is overly warm in her quilting loft she can really smell the sizing additives that are added to fabric so that may be a good reason to prewash everything anyway!!
ReplyDeletesusan(at)mathisons(dot)org
I just became a follower of your blog.
ReplyDeleteI always press the seam to one side and yes, it's the darker side. If you press to the lighter side the darker fabric could show through.
ReplyDeleteI always do raw edge machine applique using the blanket stitch. I used to do the satin stitch with no Heat n Bond but like the fusible method much better. (I absolutely hate hand sewing!)
ReplyDeleteOther than my Janome 6600? It would have to be the rotary cutter/mat/rulers. Even when I was young my hands would get sooo tired cutting all those shapes for a quilt. And why couldn't we have figured them out YEARS ago? They are just an improvement of the pizza cutter LOL
ReplyDeleteA friend gave me a set of vintage tin cansiters. The smallest one works fantastically to hold my markers and other assorted items on the shelf above my cutting table.
ReplyDeletePrewash or not? Sometimes i do, sometimes I don't I guess it all depends upon the fabric and how soon I need the fabric. Size also comes into the equation.
ReplyDeleteI'm not to fussy on what type of batting I use for things other than quilts. It depends upon the project. I do like cotton batting for quilts.
ReplyDeleteI've seen the One Block Wonder on another post, The blogger wasn't too happy with the results. I have never attempted one so I can't help you there.
ReplyDeleteThanks for joining in the fall giveaway..Us quilters no matter how experienced we are always go thru a trial and error process. You persevered and thats what makes you love this art. you go girl..never give up..
ReplyDeleteI am one of your newest followers, count me in the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI have often sat down to work on a project and had to start over and over and over! I guess that is how it is with creative people!
ReplyDeleteI wish I had something profound to tell you as a tip. I am new to applique, so I am searching for tips on that also.
ReplyDeleteawww, I really liked the snowmen, they were really cute!! but you other quilt is really nice too! Thanks for all the opportunities but I don't have time this evening for multiple comments. great blog, will be back.
ReplyDeleteI am entering for my daughter, her computer is down and she called and asked if once again I would enter her in contests, I couldn’t say no as she helps my wife and her mother with their charity quilting projects. I try to support them any way that I can, so here I am and I hope I am doing this right.
ReplyDeletethank you for putting our name in your drawing. Florida area
tcsean(at)aol(dot)com
Awesome giveaway. The snowman are so cute.
ReplyDeleteI am a giggler and a follower. Your post is a riot. I am a newbie quilter and I was right there with you. Had no idea sewing non-fusible puts a hole in it....Murphy's law is that it had to happen on a project that has a deadline :)
ReplyDeletensue21702 at gmail dot com
i'm your 33rd new follower :)
ReplyDeletetea is on at FHC where you might like to follow too ~ Welcome!
I just became a follower. I so understand your applique 'learning curve'. That's exactly how I got started. I do love the snowmen though. Almost all my Christmas decorations are snowmen, winter actually, that way I don't have to take them down until about Valentine's Day.
ReplyDeleteYour snowmen are not mistakes. They are learning experiences. I don't prewash my fabric, probably should. Some day I'll find out the hard way. I like to press my seams to one side. No reason than that is what my first quilt teacher did! Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI prewash if it will be washed..if it is a wall hanging, no. I press my seams to one side...thank you for the giveaway..
ReplyDeleteThank you for having this giveaway.
ReplyDeletewarnerar at hotmail dot com
I prefer to prewash all fabrics because I don't trust that something won't shrink later.
i'm correcting my previous no reply status, so hoping this now works for everyone! thx :)
ReplyDeletetho' a comment to my blog does get emailed to me ~
I'm a follower
ReplyDeletethe runner is cute. But I liked the Snowmen too.
thanks for the giveaway.
ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com
I like the cotton batting. The feel of the quilt and the warmth is better to me then the poly.
ReplyDeleteI ALWAYS pre wash my fabric! I have asked many quilters about this very question. I have made small projects with pre washed and not pre washed and I like the look of the pre washed after it's done and washed. Plus I noticed that the not pre washed shrunk some. So for me I will always pre wash, even if I have to hand wash!
ReplyDelete