My niece is great! She shared this photo of Baby Oliver with me soon after they got home from the hospital.
I love seeing my quilts being used.
Baby Jacobs D9P In the Wild
Ombre Weave Top Finished
After allowing this top to languish on my design wall, I finally got down to business and finished the top.
I like the look of it with the sashing in between the blocks.
I am renaming it Hugs & a Kiss. I mostly made Os with the blocks (hugs). I turned four blocks into an X to symbolize a kiss for my niece.
I am almost done with the back and the binding, so this will be off to Colleen soon.
I decided not to make the Heart Strings quilt**, so I had quite a bit of the V&Co ombre to use for the backing and the binding.
**N. B. : Obviously, you should shop at local quilt shops and small businesses. However, if you are too busy or can’t find what you need there, I use Amazon affiliate links and may be paid for your purchase of an item when you click on an item’s link in my post. There is no additional cost to you for clicking or purchasing items I recommend. I appreciate your clicks and purchases as it helps support this blog.
Book Review: Quick & Easy Block Tool
It’s been awhile since I posted a book review. Here is a great book I think you will enjoy!
The full title is The New Ladies’ Art Company Quick & Easy Block Tool: 110 Quilt Blocks in 5 Sizes with Project Ideas.
The New Ladies’ Art Company Quick & Easy Block Tool: 110 Quilt Blocks in 5 Sizes with Project Ideas by Connie Chunn
I saw this book at a shop in Oregon last year. I didn’t buy it at that time, but I did add it to my wish list. One of my SILs bought it for me as a gift. I don’t ‘need’ any more block books, but I love them! In this case, I am glad I received this one as it has great ideas for using blocks. They also used lovely colors for the examples.
Ladies Art Company “of St. Louis, Missouri was the earliest quilt pattern company to publish quilt patterns in large quantities and design varieties. Officially established in 1889 (although the family gave a date of c1874 for the founding), Ladies Art Company continued to publish patterns until the 1970s. This collection is housed in the Michigan State University Museum.” See Quilt Index for more information.
This book starts off, after the table of contents, with directions on how to use the Block Charts (pg.4). This page includes a chart key giving makers tips on reading and using the various charts, especially the charts that tell makers how sew each block. Quiltmakers use this book in a similar manner to Around the Block**, a favorite block book, which is now out of print.
The Block Index by Name (pg.5-7) shows all the blocks included in this book. It is arranged by name as suggested by the title. The author or editors have colored the examples so readers get an idea of how the finished pieces will look. Remember to try placing colors in different places for different looks. Changing placement of the colors and fabrics allows makers to perfect their piecing by using the same pattern over and over to achieve different looks.
The Block Index by Grid (pg.8-10) helps quiltmakers combine different blocks together to create interesting secondary designs. This feature relates back to Jinny Beyer’s The Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns, but without the extra information Ms. Beyer provides. It’s a good start to learning about grids and understanding some of the math of quilt blocks. You can always level up with The Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns**.
To help readers who use and enjoy precuts, a “Precut Friendly Index” (pg.11) is also included. This information provides a baseline to terms and sizes used in the book. Great idea! The terms and sizes are followed by lists of blocks suitable for the various precut sizes. For example, charm squares (5 in. x 5 in.) can be used for Crazy Ann and Cut Glass Dish blocks while fat quarters can be used for Home Treasure and Kansas Troubles. Remember: yardage can be used for all blocks. You don’t need precuts to be successful!
Block making instructions start on page 13 with the block, Album 1. Included on each block’s page is a wealth of information. Not only do readers find the name and a list of cutting instructions, but the grid, design options, a piecing chart, yardage for a quilt and written instructions. Note that yardage for only one size quilt is given. That varies depending on the block pattern. Some sizes give enable you to make baby quilts, while other blocks have lap quilt sizes included. Readers can extrapolate out for other needed sizes. The block pages are extremely well designed.
The Ladies Art Company (LAC) number is also included. It can help you reference other resources. For example, if you know the LAC number you will be able to find the exact same block in Barbara Brackman’s Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns (3rd Edition)**. This and The Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns both have references to LAC numbers.
What sold me on this book was the ‘Design Options’ section. The author and editors show different creative ways in which the blocks can be combined and used. This visual aid really spurs on creativity. I particularly like the movement in the Barrister’s Block (pg.15). Combining Fanny’s Favorite (pg.42) blocks creates an interesting secondary design. Mrs. Morgan’s Choice (pg.80) also appeals through the diamonds adding additional movement to an interesting pattern. So many of these blocks look simple and even a little boring alone, but shine when combined. The quilt made up of Nonsense (pg.82) blocks is one such design. It really sings when combined with like blocks. Old Tippecanoe (pg.89), combined with Snowball blocks creates a great chain type design.
Rocky Glen (pg.98) has a lot of piecing which makes the quilt look modern and very complicated when the blocks are combined.
Swing in the Center (pg.112) is probably my favorite because the combination of multiple blocks looks like a mosaic floor.
Turkey Track (pg.117) reminds me of the Spiky 16 patch quilts I have made. Quiltmakers could make the spikes (HRTs) in this block with the Split Recs ruler**.
After the block section is finished, the author has included a section called Tips & Helpful charts (pg.123-128), a useful section. I recommend you mark it and keep in mind for later. There are tips on cutting different shapes (pg.123) and also how to sew various shapes (pg.124).
The ‘Corner Alignment for Piecing Shapes’ (pg. 125) is from Alex Anderson’s Simply Stars book ** and is one of the most useful charts around. Use this chart to ensure your are lining up your triangles the correct way for the best piecing outcome.
Find information on yardage (pg.126), sizes for on point designs (pg.126) and a chart for changing block sizes (pg.127) as well.
Piecing blocks is a great way to hone your sewing skills. This book can support that as well as a desire to step away from patterns and create your own quilt designs. It is also a great help if you are not feeling inspired.
Nota bene: The only edition available on Goodreads was the Kindle edition. I didn’t read the Kindle edition. I read a spiral bound paperback edition** and that is the edition I recommend.
**N. B. : Obviously, you should shop at local quilt shops and small businesses. However, if you are too busy or can’t find what you need there, I use Amazon affiliate links and may be paid for your purchase of an item when you click on an item’s link in my post. There is no additional cost to you for clicking or purchasing items I recommend. I appreciate your clicks and purchases as it helps support this blog.
Maker’s Tote Potential Project
I have been cleaning out my workroom – not throwing stuff away, but re-organizing, a little recycling and a few donations. I am doing a lot of filing. In the course of this, I found the Noodlehead Maker’s Tote pattern in a pile.
I remember seeing a cool version at Stitch in Ferndale a few years ago?? I can’t find the photo, though I am sure I took one.
The fabric, which I am thinking about using for the exterior, is from my last trip to Bolt. I thought about using it for a different project, but it might also be a good fabric for this bag. I am struggling with a choice for the outside pocket, binding and handles. Perhaps something bright like pink?
This project is far down the list at the moment, so I have time.
Half Hexie Star Returns
As mentioned yesterday, I got the Half Hexie Star back from Colleen finally. It is just in time to bind it and have it ready to give as a wedding gift. I am also pleased that I was able to show it at the guild meeting yesterday.
Colleen did a great job, as usual, quilting this. She said the binding of the two ends was the most challenging. I am really glad she put the first side of the binding on the quilt by machine for me. It will make the handwork much easier and get it done faster.
She used flowers and leaves as the quilting design. I am pleased with how it looks.
Day Out with Quilts
Tim and I visited Colleen yesterday, went to lunch and visited a quilt shop. We had a fun time.
Colleen has moved in the last few years, so it is more of an expedition to take her quilts than it used to be. When I am working, it isn’t really possible to make the journey, but I was able to do it yesterday. Having Tim along made it more enjoyable. I took the Ombre Weave (Hugs & a Kiss) quilt to be quilted. I also picked up the Half Hexie Star!!! Yes! After YEARS it is finally finished just in time for me to bind it and pass it on to its recipient. I’ll also show it at the guild meeting.
Colleen had a great quilt on her design wall. She was teaching her Rings of Change quilt and one of the students came up with her own design. Colleen wanted to try it and came up with this quilt.
Colleen wanted to try the ‘mistake’ (design challenge) and this is the result. She calls them flowers. I love the dramatic contrast of colors on black. The ‘blocks’ look a bit like Dresden Plates, but the spikes in the center make it a little different. These are made in plate format and then appliqued down. Contact Colleen if you want to talk about a class or buy a pattern (not sure if one for this variation is available).
After picking up and dropping off quilts, we went to lunch and Costco, then visited Bay Quilts. I wrote about this shop when it first opened. It is essentially the same as it was back in 2017, though they have a lot more gift items. They probably have the most fabric of any of the local shops.
I have to add the yardage to my ‘yardage used’ spreadsheet. Fortunately, I have ideas for all of these fabrics, so I need to get busy and get them off the spreadsheet again as well.
Hildegarde Progress
I made a little progress at the last Sew Day on this bag. I mostly did prep, which needed to be done. I have to admit that I prefer to cut and do prep at Sew Day. It just means I have less to haul around. I was happy to make some progress, especially progress that was useful.
When I got home I was able to get going on the lid.
I know that the trunk of the tree on the handle doesn’t exactly line up with the trunk of the tree on the top, I am still ridiculously pleased with how this came out. I am pleased with the pink and pleased with the fabric I chose.
The next day, I worked on making the whole top/lid. Above is just the exterior.
In the photo, left, you can see the hinge and the zipper completely attached. I think this method of construction is the same one used for the Hackney bags.
Again, I had some trouble with the mesh pocket. I am not sure why. It could be that I measured wrong somewhere. There was some ripping, but, in the end it came out ok. I really want to try another mesh pocket right away, but it will have to be for another type of bag as I am not ready to commit to another Hildegarde right away.
I know the mesh pocket looks a little wonky, but it really isn’t. I measured the binding on the top mesh carefully, so it would be even on both sides. It just looks a little weird in the photo.
Center Street Quilts has a video for her Stella pouch. I like the way she makes her zipper tabs and would like to try that method next time. I think that method would work for any type of zipper and give me some flexibility as to size. Of course, it would be helpful if I cut everything properly. I always think I do, but I have to explore the possibility that something was too small. Perhaps I’ll cut out the top of a Hackney and try this pocket again while my thoughts are fresh in my mind.
This is a Sew Sweetness pattern. It is part of Minikins Season 4 bundle. You can see the various projects I have made from the Minikins patterns on the Minikins page.
Baby Jacobs Diagonal 9 Patch Finished
I finished this quilt at the beginning of last month, but forgot to post the finished quilt. August was busy!
One of my SILs brought it to the new baby when SIL traveled to the area where my niece and her husband live. I was glad not to have to mail it.
I am pleased with how it turned out and the juxtaposition of the same design in different colors. The first D9P was for this baby’s brother and is almost the opposite in color of this one.
Sun Hat Progress
I took the pieces with me to Sew Day on a whim and actually made some progress. Mary C helped me to measure my head to confirm I actually have a teen head. I do!
Once that was established, which I admit was holding me back from making progress, I decided to cut out the pieces and get them ready to sew.
I made one change. Instead of cutting out four pieces for the brim and sewing two together I left that piece whole. It will look like a donut. I did check the directions and think it will be fine – I think it will save me a couple of seams and keep the pattern of the fabric intact. I have plenty of fabric, so if it doesn’t work then I can do something else.
I forgot the interfacing I planned to use so that will be a project for another day.
Ombre Weave Blocks Finished
I finished all the blocks for the Ombre Weave and think I will change the layout to highlight more of the Os that show up in the design. The red I added looks good. The piece overall isn’t as depressing as it was before.
EPP Balls in the Wild
I sent two EPP Balls to a friend from work. She just had a new baby, but also has a 2 year old.
I wasn’t planning on sending an EPP ball to them, but they are so easy to make and seem to be a popular gift that I just sent them along.
The two year old has taken over both for the moment, which is fine. At least there are two, one for each sister.
Here, Big Sister is showing the EPP Balls to the newborn…. and hopefully not smothering her!
Progress on the Ombre Weave
I had time last week to trim blocks and cut more pieces for more blocks. I was nervous this quilt would be too small for a teenager, but it is getting larger. It won’t be a huge quilt, but it will be nice for cuddling.
I am thinking I may use some of the ombre fabric I bought to make the Ombre Hearts quilt as the back. We’ll see, but I don’t think I will be making that quilt.
Green Improv Coming Along
I have made some progress on the Green Improv #2 donation top. This is the second green improv, though the first one was called The Green Thing. Perhaps I should call #2 The Swamp Creature. LOL!
I started using the green scraps I had already pinned together in the green scrap drawer. It was easy to make progress by using them as leaders and enders while I worked on other projects, such as the Ombre Weave quilt. It is amazing how pieces grow larger if I actually work on them!
it is about 36 inches wide now. I’d like the piece to be minimum 40×40 inches. I don’t really want to put a border on it. I’d like it to matches the other quilts in this series, but I may, if I can’t get it large enough. I was thinking of scattering bits of improv in between sashing. I would want to do that with green solids and I don’t know that I have enough green solids to make the idea work. It is a thought I’ll keep in the back of my mind if I need it.
Finished: Ends n.18
I was able to finish Ends n.18 over the Labor Day Weekend. DH was out and about participating in various activities, so I had time to concentrate on clearing up projects that were hanging around.
I know Labor Day was a long time ago, but things are busy and I am sewing quite a bit.
Didn’t have quite enough of the grey dots for the background, so I added in a solid grey that has been hanging around for a long time. I have quite a bit of various background fabrics, so I just decided to add it in. The quilt top is about 48×48 inches, which is a nice size.
The back is very much off balance. I thought of putting the scrappy bit in the center, but couldn’t be bothered taking more time on it. It looks kind of cool as is.
Hop, Skip and Jump Resurfaces
I went looking for blocks in a bin in the top of the fabric closet a few weeks ago. I found a lot of interesting things. One thing was the blocks from the Denyse Schmidt book, Denyse Schmidt Quilts**.
In 2009, I worked on the Hop, Skip and Jump pattern by Denyse Schmidt. In the referenced blog post, I talked about templates! You know I don’t mind templates, but this pattern having templates was ridiculous. Now I would just start sewing and not worry about the exact angles. I guess I didn’t know any better then.
I put these in the donation pile for the guild as I wasn’t planning on making any more of them. Not my thing. Too boring. I am sure someone will make a great donation quilt from them.
**N. B. : Obviously, you should shop at local quilt shops and small businesses. However, if you are too busy or can’t find what you need there, I use Amazon affiliate links and may be paid for your purchase of an item when you click on an item’s link in my post. There is no additional cost to you for clicking or purchasing items I recommend. I appreciate your clicks and purchases as it helps support this blog.