tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29553116161822751052024-03-28T18:15:20.059+11:00QuiltsalottJanethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.comBlogger367125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-54273354503108104012015-11-17T18:45:00.000+11:002015-11-17T18:46:32.829+11:00applique wreathI haven't done any applique for the best part of a year and was having withdrawal symptoms so pulled out a block to prep. This is block number 10 from the Beyond The Cherry Trees quilt. The pieces you can see in the photo are now ready for sewing down onto the background fabric.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HjWqtGeLsU0/VkrNgKODy6I/AAAAAAAAGV8/Y3SOk041N-g/s1600/DSC_0734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HjWqtGeLsU0/VkrNgKODy6I/AAAAAAAAGV8/Y3SOk041N-g/s400/DSC_0734.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I had to think about how to tackle the circular wreath in the middle and decided to use the starch and iron method of preparing the applique pieces.<br />
I cut the paper circle from two thick layers of freezer paper and ironed it to the fabric. I then ironed the outside seam allowance after starching it. After that was done, I cut out the excess fabric from the center and did the same to the inside seam. I'm using a hard pressing board I made from an Ikea lazy susan and thick linen fabric.<br />
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Here you can see I've managed a pretty accurate circle which I've glue basted down.<br />
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There's a lot of information regarding the starch and iron method on you tube from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOipj-UyZHFTlc5aUDP8Ltw" target="_blank">Simple Bird Applique</a> (click) if you're interested. It suits me at the moment as the stitching seems to go faster and its not as hard on my weakened right hand. I also like to use the Clover mini iron.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com187tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-90735124717429457122015-10-24T11:55:00.001+11:002015-10-24T11:55:43.484+11:00What's on my design wall<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eFh_nHoH9CA/VirXDdXmioI/AAAAAAAAGVs/kpp1N10_dUU/s640/blogger-image-2113393954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eFh_nHoH9CA/VirXDdXmioI/AAAAAAAAGVs/kpp1N10_dUU/s640/blogger-image-2113393954.jpg"></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-71351402246576199332015-02-19T14:03:00.002+11:002015-02-19T14:05:35.813+11:00Fussy cutting for Applique<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't believe this is my first post of the year even though we're well in to February. How time flies but then I've also had a bad start to the year with a few lemons thrown my way. Enough said on that!</div>
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I thought I'd show how I've been working slowly on my Baltimore quilt and fussy cutting for leaves. I managed to join two borders onto the top and finish one corner.</div>
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Some leaves are made from a tone on tone fabric and don't need to be fussy cut and others are more realistic looking.</div>
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I cut out the freezer paper template starting with the dotted line. What you get is the template plus a window template. I use the window template to audition on the fabric. It's then a simple matter of ironing the leaf template inside the window template and removing the window one. you can then mark around the leaf using your favourite fabric marker.</div>
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Just recently I thought I'd try the freezer paper and starch method to prep my pieces and it turns out that I rather like it. I even made a pile of leaves to go. It does mean that I have to make my freezer paper templates in reverse and the window template the right side up and use a small light box for correct placement. it sounds complicated but it's really not once you get your head around it.</div>
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I even used this method to fussy cut petals for the roses. Fabric choice is harder because there has to be a difference in value where petals meet. I have to say that the stitching goes a lot faster and placement is easy too. I'm also not having any distortion problems with the fabric because of the starch.</div>
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I'm going to concentrate on getting this top finished, it's been on the slow burner for years and years. I've had a bad start to the year with not a lot of stitching going on but hopefully I'll be back up to speed soon.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com70tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-15966624072618254352014-12-19T19:43:00.004+11:002014-12-19T19:43:34.941+11:00Cultural Fusions book winner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thank you to everyone that entered the draw to win <a href="http://therootconnection.blogspot.com.au/">Sujatas'</a> wonderful book. Thank you also for the lovely comments on the quilt top I made from the book.</div>
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Congratulations to Susan from<a href="http://patchworknplay.blogspot.com.au/"> Patchwork and Play</a> who happened to be lucky number 8.</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-89640889784982265842014-12-17T20:48:00.004+11:002014-12-17T20:48:39.060+11:00Cross stitchI have been known to dabble in a little embroidery now and again. I love anything with bees on so this is one that I'll be keeping.<br />
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the project is Her Majesty from the booklet By Blackbird designs called Honeybee Hill. I filled it with ground walnuts that has some lavender petals in it so it smells lovely and feels great with the weight in it.</div>
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And for the back, I had some lovely bee fabric of course.<br />
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The Q is for Queen bee but it could easily be for Quiltsalott. Loving the small ric-rac finish.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-4342803275970266102014-12-13T16:53:00.000+11:002014-12-13T16:59:33.448+11:00Cultural Fusion Quilts blog tourWelcome to the second to last stop on the blog tour for Sujata Shah's first ever book, <a href="http://www.ctpub.com/cultural-fusion-quilts/">Cultural Fusion Quilts A Melting Pot of Piecing Traditions.</a><br />
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I'm really excited about this book and what a pleasure and an honour to be part of this blog tour after following Sujata's blog, <a href="http://therootconnection.blogspot.com.au/">The Root Connection</a> for many years. I've always admired the quilts she has made with her unique sense of style and colouring. This book gives a view into her world, her inspiration and her root connection.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tY8gmmPC_Ls/VIlqT72zMxI/AAAAAAAAGOc/waZ21weer1o/s1600/14487073021_8045f1fdc6_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tY8gmmPC_Ls/VIlqT72zMxI/AAAAAAAAGOc/waZ21weer1o/s1600/14487073021_8045f1fdc6_z.jpg" height="400" width="308" /></a></div>
There are fifteen quilt patterns in the book and when I got it, I wanted to rush to the fabric stash and sewing machine and make them all. It's been a long time since I've been inspired to sew a quilt by machine but this book had me pulling fabrics right away and warming up the machine.<br />
The instructions are very clear and there are step by step diagrams to help out as well as suggestions for fabric selection and different setting variations for each of the quilts.<br />
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This method of stacking fabrics, cutting then switching them and sewing is a whole lot of fun. In fact it was a joy to be doing just that. There was no need for rulers, templates or pins to piece the blocks which makes the process of making them very speedy.<br />
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It was hard to pick a favourite out of the book but in the end I decided to work with the shapes similar to the ones in this quilt. The same shape with slight variations are also used in some of the other quilts so I knew I would have lots of options for setting them.<br />
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I made a few practice blocks to decide how I wanted to proceed. Hence the block on the left has a skinnier shape than the one on the right. No matter, they can all be used. I really love the slight curves which were so very easy to sew.</div>
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As Sujata states:</div>
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Be curious</div>
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Be bold</div>
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Be spontaneous</div>
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Be creative</div>
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Be intuitive.</div>
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I made the blocks using mainly Kaffe Fassett and Phillip Jacob fabrics in the red family because I have a lot of those and then I chose some very old greys along with black and whites out of my cupboard for contrast. It felt good to make use of my fabric stash.<br />
When cutting the fabric stacks, you get negative and positive blocks. I decided to put aside the ones that have the black and greys in the center shape for another quilt that will look totally different.<br />
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I played around with settings and added the lime strips because I kept thinking how much like leaves the shapes were and I do love hot pinks and lime together.</div>
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This is the finished quilt top which looks like funky trees, it's lap sized and approximately 60" square. I did buy the border fabric as it had the look and colour I was after. I love it a lot and I thank Sujata for gently guiding me to experiment and for inspiring me to make this quilt. I plan to use some perle cotton thread to hand quilt it when the weather cools down here in Australia.</div>
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If you would like to go into the draw for a chance to win a copy of the book, leave me a comment and I'll draw a winner in five days time.</div>
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If the winner is a US resident, they will get a hard copy but if the winner is international, they will receive the E-book version.</div>
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Here is a complete list of the blogs participating in the tour, some of them are still open for comments and the chance to win.</div>
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Tuesday December 2 Sujata Shah @ <a href="http://www.ctpub.com/blog/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">C&T Publishing</span></a><br />
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Friday December 5 Rachaeldaisy @ <a href="http://bluemountaindaisy.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Blue Mountain Daisy</span></a> <br />
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Saturday December 6 Lori Dejarnett @ <a href="http://humblequilts.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Humble Quilts</span></a><br />
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Sunday December 7 Casey York @ <a href="https://studioloblog.wordpress.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">The Studiolo</span></a> <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> </span><br />
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Monday December 8 Malka Dubrawsky @ <a href="http://www.stitchindye.com/blog-2/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">A Stitch in Dye <span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span></span> <br />
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Tuesday December 9 Sherri Lynn Wood @ <a href="http://daintytime.net/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">daintytime</span></a><br />
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Wednesday December10 Bonnie Hunter @ <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2014/12/cultural-fusion-quilts-blog-tour.html"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Quiltville's Quips and Snips</span></a> <br />
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Thursday December 11 Jake Finch @ <a href="http://generationqmagazine.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Generation Q</span></a><br />
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Friday December 12 Jan Burgwinkle @ <a href="http://bemused.typepad.com/bemused/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Be*mused</span></a><br />
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Saturday December 13 Janet Treen @ <a href="http://quiltsalott.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Quiltsalott</span></a><br />
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Sunday December 14 Lindsay Conner @ <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/"><span style="color: #a1bb6e;">Lindsay Sews</span></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com124Australia37.09024 -95.712891000000013-36.4181565 99.052733999999987 90 69.521483999999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-44392257226301891022014-12-12T14:23:00.001+11:002014-12-13T15:48:58.864+11:00A little Christmas projectI couldn't resist adding this picture of Tully photo bombing. We are looking after her for a year for a family that moved interstate. That year is almost up and I don't think we'll give her back. We haven't heard for certain yet if we can keep her but it's on the cards.<br />
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Each year I make or buy a Christmas decoration for my grandchildren and they really look forward to the surprise. By the time they move out on their own, they should have enough decorations for a tree of their own.</div>
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This year I made them three birds each, they're so cute and look like doves to me.</div>
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The pattern is from <a href="http://jodyscraftycreations.com/home/blog/">Jody"s Crafty Creations</a> (blog). The pattern was for bigger birds but I reduced it down to 70% which was just right for what I wanted. Luckily I have some turning tools (straw and bamboo skewer) or it would have been tricky with the smaller size. If you want your own pattern, it's 50% off in her Etsy store with the code she gives on her blog. That would be a whole $1 such a bargain.<br />
How about you, are you doing any Christmas sewing?<br />
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Back soon, Janet<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-83813610431774158812014-10-25T21:48:00.001+11:002014-10-25T21:48:22.538+11:00Trees in nature and patchworkThank you so much for the lovely messages after my last post, I really did appreciate all your kind words and messages of sympathy. My trip to New Zealand gave me a much needed rest.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFbVBPmD7PY/VEt3d8LpE1I/AAAAAAAAGNc/j6MYKLnFW0w/s1600/DSC_0589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFbVBPmD7PY/VEt3d8LpE1I/AAAAAAAAGNc/j6MYKLnFW0w/s1600/DSC_0589.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1910273981"></span><span id="goog_1910273982">I had a lovely time catching up with family and especially spending time with my grand children. My DD has a lovely old farmhouse to live in with fabulous country views surrounding the property as you can see.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1GjNNGhtcrU/VEt2Y4HUoaI/AAAAAAAAGNI/WFqfVr7aadU/s1600/DSC_0519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1GjNNGhtcrU/VEt2Y4HUoaI/AAAAAAAAGNI/WFqfVr7aadU/s1600/DSC_0519.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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I really enjoyed seeing all the wonderful spring blossoms which we don't see as much of in the area where I live.</div>
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Even the trees that hadn't burst into life yet were a sight to behold.</div>
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Before I left for New Zealand, I had started making tree blocks for a new quilt. I love this process of slicing and dicing and not using precise piecing.</div>
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I had a stash of Kaffe Fassett shot cottons that were languishing in the cupboard and a container of Batiks that I thought I'd never use. They couldn't have been more perfect.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZEDuJ_aAzw/VEt07Q0z0vI/AAAAAAAAGMo/hgovjZljsr0/s1600/DSC_0631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZEDuJ_aAzw/VEt07Q0z0vI/AAAAAAAAGMo/hgovjZljsr0/s1600/DSC_0631.JPG" height="400" width="326" /></a></div>
The method involves inserting strips of different sizes between the cuts and is pretty easy to do. The <a href="http://www.helenhowestextiles.co.uk/kitsandpatterns/treepatternsandkits.html">pattern is Twelve Trees</a> by Helen Howes. There are many variations and settings you could use with these blocks.<br />
There is a free tutorial showing how to make these blocks on Helen's site <a href="http://www.helenhowestextiles.co.uk/kitsandpatterns/treetutorial.html">here </a>and also Kelly over at Pinkadot Quilts has also shown a step by step process <a href="http://pinkadotquilts.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/free-pieced-tree-tutorial.html">here.</a><br />
I started by cutting my background rectangles 16 x 10 1/2"<br />
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I decided I liked the setting that Helen used for one of her quilts and followed suit, I have a few more blocks to do to make it to the 25 I had planned on. I'm such a copy cat but why change it when I love it so much.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2YX7xxdORc/VEt1f-R_uPI/AAAAAAAAGMw/kde54TkQePg/s1600/DSC_0628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2YX7xxdORc/VEt1f-R_uPI/AAAAAAAAGMw/kde54TkQePg/s1600/DSC_0628.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></div>
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Here's a peek at what appeared at the edge of my design wall. As if by magic really, I didn't intend to play with another new quilt but I wanted to cut a few pieces of fabric in these colours to see if I liked them. I do. </div>
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I have a few things on my list to do yet before I get to play some more.</div>
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Two squares cut 2.5" and one rectangle 6.5" x 2.5" if you're curious.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-47224499259958353342014-09-24T21:27:00.000+10:002014-09-24T21:27:16.171+10:00Sewing accessories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I made a thread catcher and it's perfect for those times I sew away from home.<br />
Here it is folded flat for easy storage from the top.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJo-2zb7cdI/VCKe7cztxVI/AAAAAAAAGH8/UIHZCWnqrIg/s1600/DSC_0388.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJo-2zb7cdI/VCKe7cztxVI/AAAAAAAAGH8/UIHZCWnqrIg/s1600/DSC_0388.1.jpg" height="338" width="400" /></a></div>
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And ta dah, a quick twist and it opens up.</div>
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And voila you have a round mini bucket. Some people are so clever to think up this stuff. I made mine a lot shorter in length and I think I'll make another one even smaller. You can find the free tutorial over at <a href="http://www.redhenfabrics.com/Images/1stThursday/Thread%20Catcher.pdf">Red Hen Fabrics</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJHX3TATWt4/VCKfFJFrB5I/AAAAAAAAGIM/KgpFcEwAquw/s1600/DSC_0390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJHX3TATWt4/VCKfFJFrB5I/AAAAAAAAGIM/KgpFcEwAquw/s1600/DSC_0390.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made it quite a bit shorter than in the pattern because I really only need it for catching threads</div>
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I got envious of the social totes I was seeing on the internet so bought the pattern and took four afternoons to make this one.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V8cE5iiV5FA/VCKYzWnYNgI/AAAAAAAAGHI/-w2hgyy1xtA/s1600/DSC_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V8cE5iiV5FA/VCKYzWnYNgI/AAAAAAAAGHI/-w2hgyy1xtA/s1600/DSC_0381.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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I knew from what I'd read that it was tricky to put together and it was. To be honest, I have no desire to make another one. I like it but I don't love it.</div>
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I couldn't have understood the pattern if it wasn't for the step by step tutorial from <a href="http://rebecca-roach.squarespace.com/blog/2014/7/27/social-tote-tips-techniques">here.</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-byyBPq0SiSU/VCKZ4JWWjoI/AAAAAAAAGHg/2E8ubLXN8m0/s1600/DSC_0383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-byyBPq0SiSU/VCKZ4JWWjoI/AAAAAAAAGHg/2E8ubLXN8m0/s1600/DSC_0383.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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And last but not least is this pouch, the famous <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/sewing/accessory/sew-together-bag/36309">Sew Together Bag by Sew Demented</a>. It's my new favourite accessory because it has three zippered pouches plus the parts between are great storage pockets as well. I love it so much that I''l be making more than this one when I get the chance. Once again an <a href="http://quiltbarn.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/sew-long.html">online tutorial</a> helped enormously with the construction. I chose not to add the pincushion as I don't need it but it has a little felt piece on one side for parking needles.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YoHzNrOVgRw/VCKZ39utpdI/AAAAAAAAGHc/_VyL_42BwYk/s1600/DSC_0387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YoHzNrOVgRw/VCKZ39utpdI/AAAAAAAAGHc/_VyL_42BwYk/s1600/DSC_0387.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've only been able to manage some limited sewing these last months as I had an issue with my right hand that prevented proper movement of two fingers but I'm back to full use now thanks to some cortisone injections and a brace I've been wearing at night.</div>
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I'm unable to reply to comments for the time being. I'm flying to New Zealand as my Dad passed away and after the funeral I'll be spending time with my family there. Thanks for visiting especially after my long absence. I hope to be back on board in a few weeks.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-74424011087062566942014-07-27T20:49:00.000+10:002014-07-27T22:44:50.905+10:00The influence of other quilters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How often do you look at quilts made by others on the Internet at quilt shows or elsewhere and get influenced by their styles or skills?</div>
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It happens to me quite a lot and I think that's one of the reasons why I play around with so many projects. </div>
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At the recent Sydney quilt show I was drawn to this piece called Errant Geese by Jessica Wheelahan. I love this close up photo. It reminds me of the work of Gwen Marston and the Gees Bend Quilters.</div>
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I could see how much fun it would be to cut up pieces of fabric and play with colour and form, not worrying about rules or what anyone would think.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bVCHmcPZCVI/U9TBwrc8lnI/AAAAAAAAGCs/VAjM1D8gimE/s1600/DSC_0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bVCHmcPZCVI/U9TBwrc8lnI/AAAAAAAAGCs/VAjM1D8gimE/s1600/DSC_0286.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a> </div>
Here's the whole quilt and the ribbon Jessica won was for best quilt inspired by an antique quilt awarded by <a href="http://quiltsmith--australia.blogspot.com.au/">Quiltsmith</a> where I do my Aunty Green classes.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lR-VQNKyS98/U9TBdJ12QEI/AAAAAAAAGCk/mzDTJT3tW4E/s1600/DSC_0288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lR-VQNKyS98/U9TBdJ12QEI/AAAAAAAAGCk/mzDTJT3tW4E/s1600/DSC_0288.JPG" height="326" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jessica was sitting in front of me with her children at the awards ceremony and I caught up with her for a quick chat. What an inspirational, lovely lady she is. I was just sorry I missed her speaking at the quilt study weekend recently. I hear it was a wonderful talk.</div>
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Jessica doesn't have a blog but is on Instagram as birdie_beetle and has a page on Pinterest featuring a board of her other works at <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/birdiebeetle/beats-and-pieces-modern-quilting/">beats and pieces modern quilting</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EA-XTob12TQ/U9TBOjMi1KI/AAAAAAAAGCc/kmzupssRiDQ/s1600/DSC_0273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EA-XTob12TQ/U9TBOjMi1KI/AAAAAAAAGCc/kmzupssRiDQ/s1600/DSC_0273.JPG" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>
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Heres a totally different style of quilt made by Pamela Brockwell, another extremely talented and lovely person. Her quilt Fiore Della Vita won the best quilt in Victoria last year and is currently travelling along with my Rings And Roses quilt.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8gKDp-_Tadc/U9TN5FDpdAI/AAAAAAAAGEA/068eNdNjIIU/s1600/pams+quilt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8gKDp-_Tadc/U9TN5FDpdAI/AAAAAAAAGEA/068eNdNjIIU/s1600/pams+quilt.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I saw this in Melbourne, I couldn't stop looking at it. It mesmerised me for its machine quilting and all the special details such as the applique and cording. Pamela sure is friends with her machine!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SygoqxAktJo/U9TMSGyfFyI/AAAAAAAAGD0/H7y3XJLubxM/s1600/none.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SygoqxAktJo/U9TMSGyfFyI/AAAAAAAAGD0/H7y3XJLubxM/s1600/none.JPG" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pamela had special permission from Sharon Schamber to make and enter this quilt as it was based on one of her designs.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKutMoMqDo4/U9TOkm0nnZI/AAAAAAAAGEI/ydvPJUoN5vA/s1600/loz.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKutMoMqDo4/U9TOkm0nnZI/AAAAAAAAGEI/ydvPJUoN5vA/s1600/loz.JPG" height="395" width="400" /></a></div>
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This quilt top was pieced by hand by my friend <a href="http://el-s-el.blogspot.com.au/">Loz</a> who managed to get all her blocks together at our quilting retreat in May. Of course you may recognise that it's <a href="http://jenkingwelldesigns.blogspot.com.au/">Jen Kingwell's pattern</a>, The Circle Game</div>
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It was making my fingers itch to play with fabric and go back to my own version that I started oh so long ago.</div>
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If you've been reading my blog for a long time, you'd know that I'm not very biased for just one style of quilt. I love that there's something for everybodys' tastes. I also love that styles and techniques are evolving, it'll be good for all of us by keeping the industry alive and well.</div>
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I'm very happy to report that one of my favourite blogs is back after a break. Kathie from <a href="http://inspiredbyantiquequilts.blogspot.com.au/">Inspired By Antique Quilts</a> is back online, go and check it out. Kathie's blog was deleted for a time so if you want to follow her, you'll have to add your name back again on her followers list.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-64325511276918505022014-07-10T19:13:00.002+10:002014-07-10T19:13:14.269+10:00Overwhelmed What excitement at the quilt show in Sydney yesterday. Thanks to the grapevine, a lot of you already know that I took out some amazing prizes with my quilt, Coxcomb And Currants.<br />
I won first traditional professional, a special award called retaining the tradition, best hand quilting in the open category and best of show.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gAd86K1GKsc/U75O2Ye9olI/AAAAAAAAGB4/iZwvaZDdMXM/s1600/me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gAd86K1GKsc/U75O2Ye9olI/AAAAAAAAGB4/iZwvaZDdMXM/s1600/me.JPG" height="400" width="390" /></a></div>
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Here I am pictured with Greg Alexander, Managing Director at Bernina Australia Pty who presented me with the best in show ribbon. I still look stunned in this photo, it was hard to take it in.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJbCySIKHss/U75HDhu_HYI/AAAAAAAAGA4/0_6alW0RLYI/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJbCySIKHss/U75HDhu_HYI/AAAAAAAAGA4/0_6alW0RLYI/s1600/3.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started this one roughly two and a half years ago and wanted to participate in this years show so I dragged out the UFO and made it a goal to get it finished never dreaming it would do so well.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgKfOH0KE5E/U75H43PIkJI/AAAAAAAAGBg/MVNGTLVIe4k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgKfOH0KE5E/U75H43PIkJI/AAAAAAAAGBg/MVNGTLVIe4k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I only had my phone on me to take photos but you might be able to see <span style="background-color: white;">the </span>details well enough if you click on the photos.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yOKn9XE3uwA/U75IYeYCQ_I/AAAAAAAAGBo/fmRM90pzu0s/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yOKn9XE3uwA/U75IYeYCQ_I/AAAAAAAAGBo/fmRM90pzu0s/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>
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The quilt was inspired by one shown on Julie Silber's blog, <a href="http://blog.thequiltcomplex.com/2009/06/thinking-about-trapunto.html">the quilt complex here.</a></div>
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It got sold a few years back and ended up on another antique dealers website and that's when we tried to buy it to no avail.at that stage I had already started my own version.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbQWG5A7M04/U75H4gIiPNI/AAAAAAAAGBc/YBQMRC1KiXk/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbQWG5A7M04/U75H4gIiPNI/AAAAAAAAGBc/YBQMRC1KiXk/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here are some stats in case curious minds want to know.</div>
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All applique was done in the needleturn method and the block on <span style="background-color: white;">the </span>upper left corner has one extra berry in a nod to the quilters from the past..</div>
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I used 2,000 yards of YLI thread in the quilting. </div>
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The background quilting is straight lines approximately 1/4" apart. </div>
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The grid inside the trapunto wreaths is 3/8"</div>
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The grid on the outermost border is 1/2"</div>
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The trapunto was done before the quilt was basted.</div>
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There are a gazillion circles, sigh.</div>
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Ask me anything else if you'd like to know more. Now you know why my blog was so quiet.</div>
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Special thanks to my husband and son who did a lot of cooking and cleaning so I could quilt.</div>
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My gratitude and thanks to the <a href="http://www.quiltersguildnsw.com/">NSW Quilters Guild</a> for putting on such successful shows, its a lot of hard work.</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BERNINA.AU">Bernina Australia</a> for being the main sponsors and for the support they give to the quilting community. Thanks also to all the other sponsors who provide prizes and Expertise Events who makes it all possible.</div>
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Gosh that all sounds a bit <span style="background-color: white;">Oscar </span>speech like but I truly am grateful and also to my friends in blog land who always encourage and support anything I do.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJYpn0dxrtU/U75HY8js8MI/AAAAAAAAGBA/t7o68QPomv4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJYpn0dxrtU/U75HY8js8MI/AAAAAAAAGBA/t7o68QPomv4/s1600/photo.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thank you Tulley for guarding my quilt.</div>
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A list of other prize winners are listed on the <a href="http://quiltersguildnsw.com/quiltshow/">guild website</a>. be sure to check out the categories by clicking on the aqua tabs at the top. </div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com96tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-63493396800732952152014-07-08T15:30:00.002+10:002014-07-08T15:30:51.310+10:00Back after an unintentional break<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This poor neglected blog has been sleeping a lot lately. I missed visiting my favourite blogs too and I'm sorry if you've been waiting to hear from me however, that doesn't mean I haven't been busy.</div>
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At the moment I'm spending some relaxing evenings hand piecing a Trip Around The World quilt from Brigitte Giblin's facebook challenge. It's a lot of fun and my quilt is taking on it's own personality with each round. I thought I'd be doing something in softer colours but it has a mind of it's own. The constant which everyone is using will be the red and white spot fabric.</div>
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Hand piecing is not my forte and I don't mind admitting that all these squares aren't 1 1/2". I seem to have my own personal seam allowance.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NYprZnaxAEo/U7t7qu8IREI/AAAAAAAAF_4/6Q5RdJKR6ls/s1600/more+retreat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NYprZnaxAEo/U7t7qu8IREI/AAAAAAAAF_4/6Q5RdJKR6ls/s1600/more+retreat.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have a few projects up my sleeve I've been wanting to get to including these softies I want to make for the grandchildren. I have a lot of catching up to do on other quilts as well.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKHYIodUNs8/U7t8iHZEp9I/AAAAAAAAGAU/J4pU5f9niTs/s1600/rabbit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKHYIodUNs8/U7t8iHZEp9I/AAAAAAAAGAU/J4pU5f9niTs/s1600/rabbit.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had a bit of tidying up around the place with my fabric since my son bounced back home to live. My sewing stuff had migrated into several rooms much to my horror. I now have two new flat pack cupboards which have been squeezed into the sewing room. </div>
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It's also now got improved new lighting in there so is much nicer to work in.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZw9ArTBNEU/U7t7tgX-H4I/AAAAAAAAGAM/eH2LeLx-9Hg/s1600/cupboard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZw9ArTBNEU/U7t7tgX-H4I/AAAAAAAAGAM/eH2LeLx-9Hg/s1600/cupboard.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-u_vuluI-c/U7t7tN51VrI/AAAAAAAAGAI/POYPM8-nSLU/s1600/cupboard+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-u_vuluI-c/U7t7tN51VrI/AAAAAAAAGAI/POYPM8-nSLU/s1600/cupboard+2.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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I've been so quiet on the blog since I set myself the goal of finishing up a quilt for the Sydney quilt show which opens tomorrow. I was putting in forty hours of quilting a week towards the end but I made it. I'll be back in a couple of days and then I can show you some photos of the quilt.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-15218552845308834802014-04-21T14:43:00.001+10:002014-04-21T14:43:47.163+10:00Australian Quilt Convention<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJYCoi5coTo/U1SXwfvVhII/AAAAAAAAF7Q/0OC015-Zxl4/s1600/more+show.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJYCoi5coTo/U1SXwfvVhII/AAAAAAAAF7Q/0OC015-Zxl4/s1600/more+show.JPG" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>
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Regular readers may remember that my quilt Rings and Roses was selected as the New South Wales Best Of Show quilt last year. All the State winners then get judged at the AQC in Melbourne for the Best of Australia award. Bernina who is the main sponsor sends these quilts and their makers to Melbourne and that's where I was last week.</div>
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This is the World Heritage building where the show is held and I was very excited to see it at last. It was my first visit to Melbourne and the city turned on some lovely sunny weather for us.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A_zIHHLqWas/U1SX5WCr2XI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/HMiUo14CpGE/s1600/building.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A_zIHHLqWas/U1SX5WCr2XI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/HMiUo14CpGE/s1600/building.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
My face book friends already know that <strong><u>my quilt was announced as Australia's best quilt.</u></strong> My feet haven't touched the ground yet and its one of the most incredible moments I've experienced, such a joy for me to say the least.<br />
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The award was presented by Mr HP Ueltschi, the owner of Bernina international.<br />
What an amazing honour and privilege to have my quilt selected as the other state quilts were very special and you can see them <a href="http://www.bernina.com/en-AU/What-s-New/BERNINA-Awards/Australia/Best-of-Show-State-Winners-2013">here.</a><br />
I'm looking as gobsmacked as I felt in the photo below. It was scary making a speech but I got through it without blubbering or sounding like a complete idiot. I'm most proud of the fact that my quilt was the only hand quilted one judged.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aeRwcgjEaU8/U1SXou4iGNI/AAAAAAAAF7I/P74N7O4sr3E/s1600/award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aeRwcgjEaU8/U1SXou4iGNI/AAAAAAAAF7I/P74N7O4sr3E/s1600/award.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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My quilt got a lovely beauty queen sash, pretty exciting to see.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugOFe8lpJyg/U1SbbFpSF1I/AAAAAAAAF8I/k5wA9Xp8v_k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugOFe8lpJyg/U1SbbFpSF1I/AAAAAAAAF8I/k5wA9Xp8v_k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="327" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hieGPlUjtPs/U1SZseIZyQI/AAAAAAAAF7k/daBXKDCo5rc/s1600/with+banner.JPG" height="366" width="400" /></div>
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I recieved this gorgeous glass trophy which I take care of for a year. It's large and really heavy. It still needs engraving and Bernina apparently gift me with a smaller one. In addition I recieved a generous cash prize. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8PCqubMNbs/U1ScNbn2j7I/AAAAAAAAF8U/JT6lNLqUw4g/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8PCqubMNbs/U1ScNbn2j7I/AAAAAAAAF8U/JT6lNLqUw4g/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="400" width="231" /></a></div>
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At the Gala dinner, there was a gift from Bernina at each place setting. I stole my husbands one since he doesnt need a pincushion.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b0VTE8C9ss/U1SceYKIL7I/AAAAAAAAF8s/I1iNio_194g/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b0VTE8C9ss/U1SceYKIL7I/AAAAAAAAF8s/I1iNio_194g/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>
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Take the time to read the label, its such a wonderful story and a treasured gift.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-26An_ynsYY0/U1ScQPaGZRI/AAAAAAAAF8c/cdzVoc_9gIQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-26An_ynsYY0/U1ScQPaGZRI/AAAAAAAAF8c/cdzVoc_9gIQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="357" width="400" /></a></div>
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There were other awards presented throughout the night as well as some great entertainment. Michelle Hill has a wonderful <a href="http://williammorrisandmichele.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/quilt-convention-part-two.html">blog post here</a> where you can read more.</div>
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Lastly, thank you to my readers who talked me into putting my quilt in the Sydney show, I may not have done so without your input and wouldn't have had such an incredible experience to treasure.</div>
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Yours in quilting, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-63876681825138760252014-02-19T12:52:00.000+11:002014-02-19T12:54:12.458+11:00One finished and one startedWhen the mum of our new grandson asked me to make a quilt for him, I held my breath wondering what she would ask for. Lucky for me she had a photo and it was going to be a quick no fuss one that would fit into the nursery. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HuwsYvpKKEs/UwQE-UpFNqI/AAAAAAAAF4k/dCkkOk2CGks/s1600/DSC_0230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HuwsYvpKKEs/UwQE-UpFNqI/AAAAAAAAF4k/dCkkOk2CGks/s1600/DSC_0230.JPG" height="640" width="466" /></a></div>
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I quilted in the ditch by machine and then by hand with Perle cotton #8 which made for a very light and soft quilt. For the next quilt that has Perle thread for quilting, I'm going to aim for bigger stitches which is hard for me to do.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0bBF-ZOGOE/UwQFPYyNWGI/AAAAAAAAF4o/GFVOHASqF04/s1600/DSC_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0bBF-ZOGOE/UwQFPYyNWGI/AAAAAAAAF4o/GFVOHASqF04/s1600/DSC_0231.JPG" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
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My friend and I went to <a href="http://quiltsmith--australia.blogspot.com.au/">Quiltsmith</a> last Friday for our monthly Aunty Green class and admired all the Kaffe quilts displayed around the shop. It was pretty inspiring and since I didn't sign up for a class with the boys, I decided to have a workshop of my own, all by myself.</div>
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I wanted something quick and easy so what's better than going back to basics with squares?</div>
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Here's what's on my design wall so far. Hopefully I can play with it some more this coming weekend.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bsow02uEuM8/UwQDMoqAMZI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/MH9twLAENiQ/s1600/DSC_0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bsow02uEuM8/UwQDMoqAMZI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/MH9twLAENiQ/s1600/DSC_0239.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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until next time, Janet</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-39435725446085928462014-02-06T13:25:00.000+11:002014-02-07T11:39:07.237+11:00Applique and other thingsI had a couple of free afternoons to work some more on the Aunty Green quilt and gathered up some courage to trim the last four borders of the quilt. Its always a bit nerve wracking for me because I'm always afraid I'll make some humungous mistake with the measurements and cutting.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XVpJy1J40dQ/UvHK02x0FrI/AAAAAAAAF3c/F-WrFWr67uE/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XVpJy1J40dQ/UvHK02x0FrI/AAAAAAAAF3c/F-WrFWr67uE/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" height="640" width="540" /></a></div>
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If you've done applique, you would know all about the distortion that occurs after stitching. When it's a border it seems to compound. I folded each applique border in half and found that my center basting line no longer marked the true center.</div>
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I get around it by folding the border in half, pressing and remarking the center lines.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7EDeAvKI6GU/UvLr5ZxEXxI/AAAAAAAAF4I/AP-1oCvq-B8/s1600/DSC_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7EDeAvKI6GU/UvLr5ZxEXxI/AAAAAAAAF4I/AP-1oCvq-B8/s1600/DSC_0215.JPG" height="284" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once I had done that to all four borders and joined them to the center of the medallion, it was time to add the additional applique to the corners.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkL1JYjiPoY/UvHM3MY_OrI/AAAAAAAAF34/vMSE56jzDjo/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkL1JYjiPoY/UvHM3MY_OrI/AAAAAAAAF34/vMSE56jzDjo/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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There was some negative space that was a bit obvious that I didn't like so I've added a leaf here, a bud there to make the corners look a bit more balanced.</div>
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See the center bloom in the photo above? That's been prepped using the freezer paper and starch method so even though its been glue basted in position, it still needs stitching.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zTyLf8sVYu0/UvHMgy67AMI/AAAAAAAAF3w/CwfRT1OBjsE/s1600/DSC_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zTyLf8sVYu0/UvHMgy67AMI/AAAAAAAAF3w/CwfRT1OBjsE/s1600/DSC_0216.JPG" height="400" width="370" /></a></div>
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The stem, leaves and plaid bloom at the bottom above are extra additions to fill negative space. </div>
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Here's a close up of a flower that was done with the same method, yet to be stitched.</div>
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The class starts up again at <a href="http://quiltsmith--australia.blogspot.com.au/">Quiltsmith </a>next week so I want to get a start on the next border before then.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HGjujUCQxA0/UvHMOen0gfI/AAAAAAAAF3k/CevqJV_UH34/s1600/DSC_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HGjujUCQxA0/UvHMOen0gfI/AAAAAAAAF3k/CevqJV_UH34/s1600/DSC_0219.JPG" height="351" width="400" /></a></div>
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I forgot to tell you that we had a new addition to the family. This cute little guy was born on Christmas eve to my stepson and his partner. Since they live in another state, we've only just met him last week when they came to visit family and friends.It's nice to be a Nana again.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-umic3pmW8ec/UvHKEzaI6_I/AAAAAAAAF3E/vO0VaCFMuQc/s1600/1011791_10151982511131925_31443393_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-umic3pmW8ec/UvHKEzaI6_I/AAAAAAAAF3E/vO0VaCFMuQc/s1600/1011791_10151982511131925_31443393_n.jpg" height="400" width="373" /></a></div>
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Here's another addition to the Quiltsalott house. Meet Tully, a four year old Jack Russell.</div>
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We're providing a home for her for the next year as a favour to a family that has had to move interstate. They have a paid for rental for the next year that doesn't allow pets.</div>
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The challenge is on, she comes totally spoilt, untrained, barks, likes to dig for an escape, doesn't respond to her name but she's very affectionate. She's making me do my walks, a good thing.</div>
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I saw an ad in the vets window today that looks promising. Training for adult dogs. I'll find out more, it could be faster than me doing it on my own. This dog is going to learn who is in charge and it ain't her.</div>
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We've had two of our own Jack Russells and a Doberman in this house so we knew what we were taking on. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z70ck18oF6k/UvHKiO6QkMI/AAAAAAAAF3U/Jow3W59tCBY/s1600/DSC_0223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z70ck18oF6k/UvHKiO6QkMI/AAAAAAAAF3U/Jow3W59tCBY/s1600/DSC_0223.JPG" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>
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Until next time, Janet </div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-39085726803933721952014-01-11T16:54:00.002+11:002014-01-11T17:03:48.477+11:00Giving applique a bathI got busy doing some prep for two applique borders before Christmas so I could sit and relax with some stitching. I feel like I've been productive now that two are done. The first is for my Baltimore and the second is for the Aunty Green.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MwqaFHELpFg/Us5wq9gVyhI/AAAAAAAAF14/CvxAI2bH--w/s1600/DSC_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MwqaFHELpFg/Us5wq9gVyhI/AAAAAAAAF14/CvxAI2bH--w/s1600/DSC_0187.JPG" height="203" width="400" /></a></div>
The Baltimore border has lots of embroidered stems which I did using a wrapped stem stitch. You might be able to see if you click on the photo above.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D6hr3Gh_eCw/UtDUMhWGkCI/AAAAAAAAF2w/EKEHtvJMeYs/s1600/1-DSC_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D6hr3Gh_eCw/UtDUMhWGkCI/AAAAAAAAF2w/EKEHtvJMeYs/s1600/1-DSC_0182.JPG" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>
I draw the pattern on the background with my special pens and I do use basting glue so my applique needs a good bath when I'm done.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y0XBFL0lPOg/Us5u8xglryI/AAAAAAAAF1U/aKgYORKOAxE/s1600/DSC_0116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y0XBFL0lPOg/Us5u8xglryI/AAAAAAAAF1U/aKgYORKOAxE/s1600/DSC_0116.JPG" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>
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I generally fill a sink with warm water, not too hot and leave the piece to soak for anything from 15 minutes to half an hour depending what else I'm busy with. I do swish it around in the water a couple of times and I'll only add a dye catcher sheet if I'm concerned about some of the fabrics bleeding. I don't need to use them to catch the ink in the pens. I pre-wash most fabrics but sometimes those reds bleed regardless. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tACMneDFfv4/Us5wwQ4fQjI/AAAAAAAAF2A/2kzeuHehGBc/s1600/DSC_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tACMneDFfv4/Us5wwQ4fQjI/AAAAAAAAF2A/2kzeuHehGBc/s1600/DSC_0117.JPG" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
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You can see how the water has changed colour from the ink,it's suspended in the water and has never affected my fabrics or run onto them. They are acid free and non toxic. Sometimes I steam press my applique with a hot iron and that doesn't even affect how effectively it washes out. I have left ink in a quilt for a couple of years and it still washes out beautifully. For more information, <a href="http://quiltsalott.blogspot.com.au/2011/11/more-applique-and-testing-new-marking.html">see this post.</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzFBFsKJHcs/Us5vnFF4t8I/AAAAAAAAF1g/HxkvYjdTz44/s1600/DSC_0115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzFBFsKJHcs/Us5vnFF4t8I/AAAAAAAAF1g/HxkvYjdTz44/s1600/DSC_0115.JPG" height="210" width="400" /></a></div>
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I rinse a couple of times in cold water and then squeeze, not wring the excess out. I then flatten it out on a towel as in the photo above, roll it up inside the towel to get more water out and leave it flat to dry.</div>
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Once it's dry, I'll double a towel on the ironing board and give it a good press with steam. The soft surface stops the applique from pressing too flat and it helps to get the wrinkles out between the applique shapes.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPTqsefrM8E/Us5wUUwaj5I/AAAAAAAAF1w/BqcLFvcvStc/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPTqsefrM8E/Us5wUUwaj5I/AAAAAAAAF1w/BqcLFvcvStc/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" height="104" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's hard to get a good photo of long borders but you get the idea. I've left quite a bit of negative space to fit some nice quilting in and I also didn't want the border to be too busy looking. There's still more to do to turn the corners at each end but I can't do that until later when sides are joined.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERz0NPQwVQ0/Us57CDcIuBI/AAAAAAAAF2Y/Wh-xYhVA9d8/s1600/DSC_0189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERz0NPQwVQ0/Us57CDcIuBI/AAAAAAAAF2Y/Wh-xYhVA9d8/s1600/DSC_0189.JPG" height="278" width="400" /></a></div>
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I finished another border for the Aunty Green quilt and thought I'd show you more close up photos so you can see the fabrics. The above is the center section.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AyjagkluvQ/Us57BWQFFVI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/Aou5eJcaDk0/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AyjagkluvQ/Us57BWQFFVI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/Aou5eJcaDk0/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
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The right side</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pvA6E0ROpg/Us57PF_rrjI/AAAAAAAAF2g/p88SmGU3riU/s1600/DSC_0190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pvA6E0ROpg/Us57PF_rrjI/AAAAAAAAF2g/p88SmGU3riU/s1600/DSC_0190.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
And lastly, the left. I have to do some math now and do some trimming before I join the last four borders to the center medallion. After that I guess I have to get on and fill the corner applique parts in. That could take awhile.<br />
Until next time, happy stitching, Janet<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-89493544151637431992014-01-02T14:46:00.000+11:002014-01-02T14:48:43.352+11:00A new old quilt and little cotton rabbitsHappy New Year to you all! <br />
Now that Christmas gifts have been unwrapped, I'd like to share with you this red and green antique quilt that my husband gave to me. <br />
It's one of my favourite patterns in my favourite quilt colours. I know it as Whigs Rose but I'm sure it has other names depending on the political affiliations back in the day.<br />
It was made around 1860 and was definitely pre-loved as the red fabrics and binding are looking pretty worn. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCyLTrA1c2M/UsTKzbiFnXI/AAAAAAAAF0g/Z4kzss1w1os/s1600/3-DSC_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCyLTrA1c2M/UsTKzbiFnXI/AAAAAAAAF0g/Z4kzss1w1os/s400/3-DSC_0111.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8rrtk1ezKI/UsTUDjabfGI/AAAAAAAAF1E/HB1zbfZJiW0/s1600/1-DSC_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8rrtk1ezKI/UsTUDjabfGI/AAAAAAAAF1E/HB1zbfZJiW0/s400/1-DSC_0110.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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No worries about how to turn the corners on the borders, it looks like they were just placed at whim, I love that but I'm not brave enough to do it to my own quilts.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQkuoSj_otk/UsTKvpr90gI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/Jou08EhpufI/s1600/4-DSC_0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQkuoSj_otk/UsTKvpr90gI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/Jou08EhpufI/s400/4-DSC_0112.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
There are feathered wreaths quilted between the blocks and in a couple of other places. They don't show up very well because of the shrinkage and cotton batting. It's pretty expertly quilted with triple lines going through all the applique. Who quilts like that now?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rry4BtYPgc0/UsTKuKyTETI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/QMHkkn4K__U/s1600/5-DSC_0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rry4BtYPgc0/UsTKuKyTETI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/QMHkkn4K__U/s400/5-DSC_0113.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The applique stitches are tiny and even, done with beige thread stitched in an overcast manner. I think this quilter must have been an accomplished sewer. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wHxOJSOMCCQ/UsTKsPYbC0I/AAAAAAAAF0I/gmNYIShWork/s1600/2-DSC_0109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wHxOJSOMCCQ/UsTKsPYbC0I/AAAAAAAAF0I/gmNYIShWork/s400/2-DSC_0109.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I put my hand in the photo to show just how tiny those berries are. This will be a quilt for display every Christmas now.</div>
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I can show you what I had been busy making for the grand children for Christmas now they've received them. I think they have a competitive streak when it comes to soft toys and cushions on their beds so these were well received.</div>
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It started off with this wee fella. The patterns are from <a href="http://littlecottonrabbits.typepad.co.uk/">Little Cotton Rabbits</a>. I've always secretly coveted the rabbits Julie makes to sell so I was very happy when she started releasing the patterns which you can find <a href="http://littlecottonrabbits.typepad.co.uk/knitting-patterns/">here.</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuqqfyhSD0o/UsTKJTobaYI/AAAAAAAAFzg/lIKmbIHhXYs/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuqqfyhSD0o/UsTKJTobaYI/AAAAAAAAFzg/lIKmbIHhXYs/s400/DSC_0076.JPG" width="306" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hQ1Ww5D_PE/UsTKcmuPdxI/AAAAAAAAFzo/gQOI8O6txWg/s1600/DSC_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hQ1Ww5D_PE/UsTKcmuPdxI/AAAAAAAAFzo/gQOI8O6txWg/s400/DSC_0080.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mfoX0-_Oxro/UsTKl_GiPmI/AAAAAAAAFz4/ONyGWvDaCYs/s1600/8-DSC_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mfoX0-_Oxro/UsTKl_GiPmI/AAAAAAAAFz4/ONyGWvDaCYs/s320/8-DSC_0082.JPG" width="194" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7soq42-3ScM/UsTKnVaX1gI/AAAAAAAAF0A/CRvl9Q-6lTo/s1600/9-DSC_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7soq42-3ScM/UsTKnVaX1gI/AAAAAAAAF0A/CRvl9Q-6lTo/s400/9-DSC_0084.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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It didn't take much to talk me into making one for each of the kids despite never having made a kniited soft toy in my life. Every one came out looking a bit different depending on the wool used for the rabbit and that also seemed to determine the size and shape of each one.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-32341634227845551782013-12-21T15:13:00.001+11:002013-12-21T17:56:30.198+11:00Ok, now where was I?Whoops, time has flown by and I've been so busy that my poor blog has had very little attention. I do appreciate your visits on the occasions when I do pop in and have something to say.<br />
Even my sewing time has been cut back a bit for the last couple of months. It's just as well I go to the monthly class at<a href="http://www.quiltsmith.com.au/"> Quiltsmith</a> so I can at least keep a pace going with the Aunty Green quilt.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pe8yJswTfg/UrUNE_r4Y8I/AAAAAAAAFyw/WSNznqStWbY/s1600/3-DSC_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pe8yJswTfg/UrUNE_r4Y8I/AAAAAAAAFyw/WSNznqStWbY/s400/3-DSC_0086.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I cant remember if I've shown this panel before but here it is anyway.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3NIVPl2Zjk/UrUNB5oltxI/AAAAAAAAFyo/guzVQTtsqVk/s1600/2-DSC_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3NIVPl2Zjk/UrUNB5oltxI/AAAAAAAAFyo/guzVQTtsqVk/s400/2-DSC_0085.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This one took a little longer because I couldn't decide what to do for the broderie perse. I'm pretty happy with it now but I do wish the manufacturers would bring out more broderie perse fabrics. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wrZR-iJQWcA/UrUNGlXzHrI/AAAAAAAAFy4/f_znIs--QIc/s1600/4-DSC_0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wrZR-iJQWcA/UrUNGlXzHrI/AAAAAAAAFy4/f_znIs--QIc/s400/4-DSC_0088.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I'm still working on the last panel that surrounds the center. I'm liking this one a lot for it's bigger shapes. I've done a bit more prep since I took this photo so I can stitch over the holidays.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPnfqLtDGTM/UrUNI2425kI/AAAAAAAAFzA/qmVCjPoLaFI/s1600/5-DSC_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPnfqLtDGTM/UrUNI2425kI/AAAAAAAAFzA/qmVCjPoLaFI/s400/5-DSC_0090.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is how the sections look so far. There's lots of measuring and trimming to do before I can join them and then fill the corners with more applique. Of course the applique will look pretty packed in there at that stage.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIWKW5W1FQ8/UrUSWjNX0nI/AAAAAAAAFzM/ihKGhPrpi-I/s1600/1-DSC_0075-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIWKW5W1FQ8/UrUSWjNX0nI/AAAAAAAAFzM/ihKGhPrpi-I/s400/1-DSC_0075-001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Every year it's a tradition of mine to give the grandchildren a Christmas decoration for the tree. This year I made knitted these stockings for them, a free pattern from Little Cotton Rabbits. They weren't as hard as I thought they'd be but sadly my attention span was too short to make myself some.</div>
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If I don't get back to blogging before Christmas, have a very happy and joyful time with loved ones.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-21208910915215062602013-10-06T13:30:00.002+11:002013-10-06T13:30:52.939+11:00It's been agesWe've been having major Internet issues here, it seems there was a voltage leak up the road that kept making the Internet drop out and go ultra slow. I'm sorry if you missed my posts but hopefully I can update more regularly now. I sure have missed visiting my favourite blogs.<br />
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I have been fabric bombing in the sewing cave, it seems I can't play with fabric in a tidier fashion and there's no point in folding it neatly until I'm done with it anyway.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WaEaG50oxkw/UlDBXcXpoZI/AAAAAAAAFxA/NwvM9yrhpdA/s1600/8-DSC_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WaEaG50oxkw/UlDBXcXpoZI/AAAAAAAAFxA/NwvM9yrhpdA/s400/8-DSC_0057.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've been keeping myself busy with a ton of drawing. I had an idea for a quilt and spent a lot of time on that.</div>
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I even shopped for Japanese fabrics for it. I proceeded to hand piece one compass and then abandoned the whole project.</div>
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At some stage I came to my senses and decided not to start something new. Guilt made me pull out an old sleeping beauty that has to be finished or it might end up never being done.<br />
I did draw some borders for the old Baltimore quilt which I showed back <a href="http://quiltsalott.blogspot.com.au/2011/04/border-decisions.html">here.</a> I knew I wasn't that happy with them and so I put pencil to paper and started again. It took days which is why I put it off.<br />
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This time I used one of <a href="http://suegarman.blogspot.com.au/">Sue Garman's</a> urns from her Friendship album with some adjustments and drew the floral arrangement using some of the flowers in the quilt.</div>
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Once the drawings were finished it was time to start colouring with fabric.</div>
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Here's a peek of the first section. The corners have to be done last after they are mitred and joined to the top plus I have some embroidered stems to do as I go. I've left plenty of space to do some quilted feathers later on which I'll most likely trapunto.</div>
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I'll be back next time with an update on how I'm going on my other applique project, the mighty Auntie Green.</div>
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Happy sewing, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-449211650569566402013-08-14T11:14:00.000+10:002013-08-14T21:05:11.912+10:00Wrangling with a travelling rabbitLast week I made a bunny from some vintage chenille pieces for a grand daughter's 6th birthday and it turned out to be a bit of a saga. I used a commercial pattern for a twenty inch bear (that's big) and made up the ears myself. There was fluff spread from one end of the sewing room to the other.<br />
During the stuffing part, there was a bit of an injury to the chest area due to a weak spot in that piece of chenille.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ao7kMPXIAY/UgndFVkW5pI/AAAAAAAAFwI/lTSdKAT8Ylk/s1600/1-DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ao7kMPXIAY/UgndFVkW5pI/AAAAAAAAFwI/lTSdKAT8Ylk/s400/1-DSC_0040.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I managed to save the limbs and made a new body and carried on. Oh dear, the ears are way too long for this poor rabbit as you can see. <br />
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After sleeping on it, I decided to unstuff the head and try and extract the ears and do them again.<br />
So here is the final result which turned out as good as it was going to get. It's very cute for a stuffed toy bigger than a newborn baby but it is light in weight.<br />
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And of course bunny has to have a tail. I wasn't sure how to do that so turned a seam allowance on a circle, gathered it, stuffed it and sewed it in place.<br />
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It's all squishy in the middle, I tested it with cuddles.</div>
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I just didn't get to the Post Office in time to send it across the ocean so it got packed in a suitcase and flew interstate to Queensland for photographing and posting the next day. It'll be well travelled by the time it gets to it's destination.</div>
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We had a wonderful four days away to see the V and A quilt exhibition and have a relaxing break and also catch up with my son. We got to celebrate his birthday and also David's while we were up there.</div>
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What an absolutely wonderful thing it is to see these incredible works up close. </div>
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The embroidery on the quilts was so incredibly fine, the stitching was superb and I was surprised to see the above coverlet had been done by the English paper piecing method. That whole center was stuffed like a pillow. Not sure if that was for display. No photos were allowed so these are off the net. I also loved seeing a very old needlework casket stitched with Stump work, some sewing paraphernalia and other items of interest. It was well worth seeing.<br />
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The weather in Queensland was perfect, warm and sunny during the days cooling at night. This is their winter!. </div>
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The locals were very friendly where we stayed in Surfer's Paradise.</div>
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These ladies dressed in gold sequined bikinis put coins in the meters along the beach front as a courtesy to the public. Not a job I would qualify for ;-)<br />
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Even the police were dressed for the weather.</div>
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Until next time, Janet<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-11132796175321799292013-07-29T15:51:00.000+10:002013-07-31T09:31:09.860+10:00Stitching pillow take 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This time, I know what I want, a 14" square pillow is just right for my needs. Pattern is chosen, now to make it happen.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UiCDOWoD2nI/UfX8PuK6GpI/AAAAAAAAFt0/glnlQ-s0MeM/s1600/1-DSC_0001-004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UiCDOWoD2nI/UfX8PuK6GpI/AAAAAAAAFt0/glnlQ-s0MeM/s400/1-DSC_0001-004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Take some aquas, add a little blue and pink for highlights. Cut into triangles and add some of those modern text fabrics.<br />
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After finding the block on my <a href="http://electricquilt.com/online-shop/blockbase/">Blockbase </a>programme, I printed some off ready for paper foundation piecing. This was going to be the most accurate way to sew the parts. The blocks will finish at a mere 2", now that's small.</div>
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I love my new light pad that I picked up at the quilt show. It's like an ipad, so thin, light and portable plus I have the option of changing the brightness on it. It was perfect for sitting on the table next to the sewing machine to check my seams were aligned correctly.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEfPyS9R0lY/UfX64xVyYUI/AAAAAAAAFs0/2WEk73rl7RY/s1600/3-DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEfPyS9R0lY/UfX64xVyYUI/AAAAAAAAFs0/2WEk73rl7RY/s400/3-DSC_0007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
There were only three bits of paper to tear off each block which didn't take long and there wasn't mush fabric waste since I'd pre-cut the shapes.<br />
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Voila, all forty nine blocks are sewn together. I love it but then I knew I would when I saw <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51295368@N07/6944272894/in/set-72157634809412375">this one</a> and did a big copy cat.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EjZadzidvc/UfX69lCd9rI/AAAAAAAAFtE/XJaXrQI8mJg/s1600/5-DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EjZadzidvc/UfX69lCd9rI/AAAAAAAAFtE/XJaXrQI8mJg/s400/5-DSC_0014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I decided I'd like to handle these fabrics a bit more and hand quilt it simply with this thread I found in the stash. It's Valdani variegated 35 wt cotton. <br />
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-34892287317148975832013-07-23T15:54:00.000+10:002013-07-23T16:17:40.443+10:00A wee bit of fun<br />
I did say I had taken a little detour from what I normally sew and I had a need for something fast. My poor stitching pillow which I use when I'm hand piecing or appliqueing has seen better days. It looks so shabby that I'm ashamed to show it. Time for a new one.<br />
I found a great tutorial at Cluck Cluck Sew <a href="http://www.cluckclucksew.com/2011/03/tutorial-sprocket-pillows.html">here.</a> It's called a sprocket pillow and wow, it is fast, easy and fun. Only trouble is that I put the text fabric on wrong way round. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fBVCrD3Ia3k/Ue4RFDyrbBI/AAAAAAAAFrw/jJ-81TXNkRw/s1600/1-DSC_0002-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fBVCrD3Ia3k/Ue4RFDyrbBI/AAAAAAAAFrw/jJ-81TXNkRw/s400/1-DSC_0002-002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I was always put off making a round pillow when it doesn't have an opening for an insert. How do you wash them? I really need to know and just in case I have to put the whole thing in the wash, I used a large self covered button that is all plastic because metal would probably rust.<br />
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The back looks as fun as the front with an old <a href="http://www.auntycookie.com/">Auntie Cookie</a> linen I had in the stash. Now the text fabric on the side is the right way up. Honestly, I have more trouble choosing fabrics for wee things like pillows, bags and pouches than I do for quilts. I made the 14 inch version.</div>
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There was one big glitch after I made this, it's too thick for to stitch with on my lap and I prefer a square shape so I'll just wait until the urge to make another pillow comes along.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KyLuAXwY40/Ue4RFRmXLWI/AAAAAAAAFr0/reGlNbnzCts/s1600/1-DSC_0002-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KyLuAXwY40/Ue4RFRmXLWI/AAAAAAAAFr0/reGlNbnzCts/s400/1-DSC_0002-001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I recently bought a small book from Pam Holland called <a href="http://pamhollanddesignsandproductions.com/the-adventures-of-the-amazing-alphabet-book.html">The Adventures Of The Amazing Alphabet</a>. It's a great book to read to little ones plus it has all the instructions and patterns for doing each letter of the alphabet.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8fzeCK_xFzk/Ue4TnfP_KjI/AAAAAAAAFsc/8O9sP0Uv6Mo/s1600/Amazing-Alphabet-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8fzeCK_xFzk/Ue4TnfP_KjI/AAAAAAAAFsc/8O9sP0Uv6Mo/s400/Amazing-Alphabet-2.jpg" width="397" /></a></div>
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Well, what letter should I choose but the "J" for my name. I just happened to find the Fabrico pens I needed on sale, I love it when that happens. Tracing and colouring it in was like going back to my childhood. Now what to do with it. It could be a wall hanging, the front of a tote or bag of some sort or maybe a pillow front for that square one I need.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7DKY_gtCkNI/Ue4RHVzufwI/AAAAAAAAFr8/84-ycBZlRgs/s1600/1-DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7DKY_gtCkNI/Ue4RHVzufwI/AAAAAAAAFr8/84-ycBZlRgs/s400/1-DSC_0004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-14556561975376906292013-07-10T19:55:00.000+10:002013-07-10T19:55:59.980+10:00More applique<br />
I've been a very slack blogger for awhile now. I keep meaning to do it sooner but I'm getting so darn frustrated with our slow Internet service which sometimes runs at a third less than normal speed. That's a downside of living in a small town I think.<br />
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Now that I've had my whinge, I better get on with giving an update with what I've been up to.<br />
I'm caught up enough on the Auntie Green quilt so as not to feel too ashamed when I go to class this week. The centre is all done and it gets put away now until it's time to trim it when the first borders are finished.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSBv78nGaGU/Ud0WrOOO_CI/AAAAAAAAFrA/Pb3VucCpxAU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSBv78nGaGU/Ud0WrOOO_CI/AAAAAAAAFrA/Pb3VucCpxAU/s400/DSC_0001.JPG" width="336" /></a></div>
And the first border strip is hot off the ironing board. I'm just organising the prep for the second of the four strips.<br />
I'm trying to keep to a reproduction feel with the colours and fabrics. It's hard to tell from a photo what the true colours are but I'm happy with how it's looking so far.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywtnF-osMbs/Ud0XKIUmKPI/AAAAAAAAFrI/znAoYIqsgn4/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywtnF-osMbs/Ud0XKIUmKPI/AAAAAAAAFrI/znAoYIqsgn4/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
I'm way behind in my block of the month for the <a href="http://carolynsquiltingroom.typepad.com/blog/block-of-the-month-aunt-greens-coverlet.html">Jane Pizar</a> but I did get this one done which took a really, really long time. I actually had to do it twice because I mucked up the measurements the first time. This is a small block it's only going to be seven and a half inches square once it's trimmed down by another quarter inch all the way around. Some of the other blocks for this quilt are on my header.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TxlONS2x7KQ/Ud0XsgXAChI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/bS19Q7eZAV0/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TxlONS2x7KQ/Ud0XsgXAChI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/bS19Q7eZAV0/s400/DSC_0002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I better get a move on with some more homework, I'll be back next time with something totally different to show.</div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-89246380398505259812013-06-30T16:32:00.000+10:002013-06-30T16:34:43.632+10:00Red and green antique quiltThanks to everyone that commented and congratulated me on my quilt "Rings and Roses" doing so well in the Sydney show. I had trouble with some emails bouncing when I tried to reply so if you didn't hear from me, thank you so very much once again. Other prize winners can be seen on the guild site <a href="http://quiltersguildnsw.com/quiltshow/">here</a>. Click on the top tabs to see the winners in each category. I picked up another ribbon for 2nd in viewers choice, it can't get better!<br />
Now that I'm getting back into routine again, I thought I'd show you my very first antique quilt purchase. Of course it had to be a red and green and what a beauty.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tlJUKPTZv6s/Uc-4xPxfFTI/AAAAAAAAFoE/Fix8IacOKRw/s1600/DSC_0009-004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tlJUKPTZv6s/Uc-4xPxfFTI/AAAAAAAAFoE/Fix8IacOKRw/s400/DSC_0009-004.JPG" width="381" /></a></div>
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I thought you'd like to see some close up photos of the quilting. I just adore feathers.</div>
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You can see that the green has faded with light over time. I have an AQS certified valuation which estimates the date of the quilt to be 1860. The maker is unknown and it most likely came from Pennsylvania. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvrHErgMt6I/Uc-7CF7B-dI/AAAAAAAAFo0/4fxmr9LuUHQ/s1600/DSC_0012-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvrHErgMt6I/Uc-7CF7B-dI/AAAAAAAAFo0/4fxmr9LuUHQ/s400/DSC_0012-002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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There are no holes or tears in the quilt but it does have some stains and general yellowed out areas mostly on the borders. I exagerated a stained area by editing the photo, it doesn't look as bad as this but it does show that maybe it needs a clean.</div>
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One interesting feature is how the serpentine feather quilting at the corners were handled. No need to worry about how to turn the corner, just stop and start at the seams. You gotta love that!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LzNDFOEySFo/Uc--USgQT6I/AAAAAAAAFpU/6I2KGZoGv9w/s800/1-DSC_0010-004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LzNDFOEySFo/Uc--USgQT6I/AAAAAAAAFpU/6I2KGZoGv9w/s400/1-DSC_0010-004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you clicked on this photo, you may see that there are still sharp pencil marks still visible which indicates that quilt hasn't been washed and that is on the appraisal form.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQleuMKMb8M/Uc--rAticcI/AAAAAAAAFpc/14dC3bim8ck/s800/1-DSC_0018-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQleuMKMb8M/Uc--rAticcI/AAAAAAAAFpc/14dC3bim8ck/s400/1-DSC_0018-002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Not all points are sharp but it doesn't detract one bit from the effect the feathered star blocks gives.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pmpRkzWB8c/Uc--tJcedyI/AAAAAAAAFpo/ar7LKEYCg9A/s800/1-DSC_0016-003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="381" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pmpRkzWB8c/Uc--tJcedyI/AAAAAAAAFpo/ar7LKEYCg9A/s400/1-DSC_0016-003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The stitching in the hand piecing is very close together and check out that puckering. So that's what they mean when they say that you can quilt it out. The quilting is very expertly done.</div>
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I need some expert advice about whether the quilt should be washed, if you have any thoughts, please let me know what you advise.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNVmZ-lYIaw/Uc--tojzLaI/AAAAAAAAFps/iN5oAI1ra2Y/s800/1-DSC_0013-003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNVmZ-lYIaw/Uc--tojzLaI/AAAAAAAAFps/iN5oAI1ra2Y/s400/1-DSC_0013-003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last week I picked up this beauty from Bernina, the sponsors of best of show. It's unpacked and ready to go. It's the new 750QE with the new hook system.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_iJrtqzJV8/Uc-5Fkhmu7I/AAAAAAAAFoM/zQD3TM9WRYY/s600/bernina_750_QE_sew__00008_zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_iJrtqzJV8/Uc-5Fkhmu7I/AAAAAAAAFoM/zQD3TM9WRYY/s400/bernina_750_QE_sew__00008_zoom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also wanted to share this stunning crystal trophy with you, the Narelle Grieve award for excellence in hand quilting. I'm very proud of this because I had to teach myself to hand quilt.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxUSn_aneS0/Uc-65pkaPxI/AAAAAAAAFos/fbnvheSwWAU/s1600/DSC_0019-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxUSn_aneS0/Uc-65pkaPxI/AAAAAAAAFos/fbnvheSwWAU/s400/DSC_0019-001.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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Here I am with some of my sewing friends at the presentation for the Bernina sewing machine this week held at <a href="http://www.pegspieces.com.au/">Pegs Pieces</a>.. I'm the one in the middle. Unfortunately there are two missing from the photo. We meet every Tuesday evening to stitch and they are some of the nicest people you could meet. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZfYLszomqo/Uc_O0mXamkI/AAAAAAAAFqw/lwJFmx1g9Sc/s1600/160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZfYLszomqo/Uc_O0mXamkI/AAAAAAAAFqw/lwJFmx1g9Sc/s400/160.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Until next time, Janet</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Janet
http://www.quiltsalott.blogspot.com/</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045225648259636672noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2955311616182275105.post-59156803952096287062013-06-30T14:29:00.000+10:002013-06-30T14:43:56.128+10:00BloglovinClaiming my blog on bloglovin. I'm not sure how this works yet but here goes.<br />
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