That is what is on the sewing table these days—

While at the creative connection– I hit a gal who was selling some of her stuffed little cutties and they had rattles and squeekers inside them.  I fell in love.

I thought– I must give those a try!  But of course I needed something new to Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> That is what is on the sewing table these days—

While at the creative connection– I hit a gal who was selling some of her stuffed little cutties and they had rattles and squeekers inside them.  I fell in love.

I thought– I must give those a try!  But of course I needed something new to put them into.   I came up with a few bugs.

Finishing up a few things on the pattern–  Plus, I will be making up a bunch {rattles included} to sell at the next Art Market show.

What style of patterns do you like?  I am having a debate with myself over this….

Do you like patterns that have photos for the steps?  Like a tutorial style?

Example:

All good things must come to an end. I really have enjoyed this quilt– just like the other ones. And the designers have come up with som super cute rows!

I appologize for having issues with the dates {seems this should have been up on the 22nd- where is my brain?} and sending out reminders, Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]>

All good things must come to an end. I really have enjoyed this quilt– just like the other ones. And the designers have come up with som super cute rows!

I appologize for having issues with the dates {seems this should have been up on the 22nd- where is my brain?} and sending out reminders, and you running over to see something new and the screen is blank. I have turned that off– not the brain, just the emails. and hopefully my act is together and they will actually co-ordinate together the info. 

For finishing up, it really is simple.  Please don't over-think this process.  To break it down- you find the longest row and then use that measurement for all the other rows.  Not too terrible. {it's not}

There was only one row that I actually removed something and that was the longest row of flying geese!  Because all the other rows were relitively close in size they were very easy to add too.

I added a stop border and then did a scrappy pieced border on the outside.  Not too extroindary, but it works for the quilt.  If you have any other ideas and want to do something totally different- hey. Go for it.

I did make one mistake on adding with the applique flowers. I put one piece on either side, when I should have added the spacer to one side and then sewn another flower on! Oh, how hindsight is better. lol I have a few quilts for someone to get done and then this goes on!  I am excited to see what comes of the quilting.

Winner of the Giveaway—

Free Workshop is dkg

Thanks for the designers again for doing a great job!

Carrie from Cricket Studio

Joy from Joy's Quilts

Robin from Robin Quilts

Ok….. this quilt is turning out totally wonderful!!! I am sooo excited to share what I came up with for this row.  And, for some reason we skipped a pattern. Did anyone else notice that?  The patterns are usually going out every other monday…but there was a jump in dates. Sometimes I totally wonder Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]>

Ok….. this quilt is turning out totally wonderful!!! I am sooo excited to share what I came up with for this row.  And, for some reason we skipped a pattern. Did anyone else notice that?  The patterns are usually going out every other monday…but there was a jump in dates. Sometimes I totally wonder where my brain is! I know, it's behind my eyes…..but clearly it wasn't on while looking at calendar dates.  Enough about the brain….let's get on with the totally cute row!

May Baskets

What do you think? love it like i do? oh yeah!  The handles haven't been totally attached– so they are still a bit floppy.

The May basket pattern is quite easy and you get a 2 fer!  So, piecing is relitivly quick. Give it a try–

and can I tell you a secret? I finished the center of the top!eeep. i know.

All of you who are a little hesitant of sewing with us because you don't trust the rows— let me tell you. No. Let me show you it always works out wonderfullly!

now, before all you smart girls point it out– yes, I changed the 'row' from horizontal to vertical.  It was wider than longer so it works out better this way.  And, yes, as you can see {because you are smart like that} I sneaked in an extra row– but it really wasn't It was the little triangles left from the Zig-zag row! I love extra goodies like that!  All I did was sew a second line and cut in the middle….one 1/2 triangle. one zig. Repeat for other side.

I also decided NOT to add a sashing in between each row. It is quite busy, but I sort of like it….so there. I will be adding I think- a red stop border and then an outer bigger border. You will find out on Sept. 22nd what it looks like.

Now for winners!!  So– who is the winner of the Workshop this month?  well– there wasn't any new photos!!! How can there be sooo many of us sewing along and noone posting any new photos?

I will hold onto this free workshop until next time and double it!! So– 2 free workshops {you choose the workshop}— but there has to be new photos!! Come on girls. Sew it up.

Now that you are seeing part of the finished quilt top are you ready to catch up?  I took saturday and few hours and look at what I got done-

{i know the door is sideways– didn't have time to change that. sorry}

See how cute and wonderful it is?!

Row 1 by patchworkposse

Row 2 by patchwork posse

Row 3 by Crickets Studio

Row 4 by Joy's Quilts

Row 5 by Patchwork Posse

Row 6– Robin from Robin Quilts

Row 7- Patchwork Posse

September 12th– today

September 26th– patchwork posse finish up!

See you all then to finish it up!

Marianne shared this photo of a past round robin she has done– isn't it great?

Stitching up a new pattern– still figuring out the face…..not really sure why I have such an issue with faces.  I look at others little animals and dolls, and they are so wonderful!

I do great bodies {if i do say so myself} but faces. No. Not yet. I might need a tester just for Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> Stitching up a new pattern– still figuring out the face…..not really sure why I have such an issue with faces.  I look at others little animals and dolls, and they are so wonderful!

I do great bodies {if i do say so myself} but faces. No. Not yet. I might need a tester just for face development.  Is that totally lame?

They have cordoroy jumpers and of course a real life pocket on the front to stuff with hankies, snacks or lost objects.

I have decided to make the dolls a bit more 'pro-looking' and have the closing seam at the top of the head instead of a sewn seam on the legs.  Looks much better. 

Might have to go and change some of the older patterns so this is the turn out. Love it.

So– thoughts on the bear face?   Do they look bearish?

Have a link to a photo of a bear face you really like? Share it with me.

Today we are on row 6!!! For this row I have come up with –

extra large flying geese

I used the method of the heart shaped flying geese…..starting with a big square and 4 little squares.  I promise it works and is a great trick for piecing flying geese quickly!

Today we are on row 6!!! For this row I have come up with –

extra large flying geese

I used the method of the heart shaped flying geese…..starting with a big square and 4 little squares.  I promise it works and is a great trick for piecing flying geese quickly!

How about the newest design wall/photo op?

This might be the longest row so far— but it will be super easy to adjust, just snip one off….we'll figure that out when they are all done and ready to be sewn together.

How about the winner for the Robins giveaway!

Congrats to—-Marianne Nowacki

For my giveaway how about—RUGS & RUNNERS WORKSHOP!!! clickety click here for more info on the workshop.

How do you enter the giveaway? Upload a photo of your round robin {any row} and you are in!

Check out what others are sewing up in the gallery.

Need to catch up?  click on the links below and sew them up! 

Row 1 by patchworkposse

Row 2 by patchwork posse

Row 3 by Crickets Studio

Row 4 by Joy's Quilts

Row 5 by Patchwork Posse

Row 6 Robin from Robin Quilts

September 12th– maybe another you?

September 26th– patchwork posse finish up!

If you would like to design a row contact me! Super easy and fun to do– come on. share your talent.

I have been working on a new pattern– p.j.

  This little gal loves her blankie– which wraps up and easily buttons to keep her in.

She isn't so big– like 8" tall and her blankie is 12 X 12. Flannel on one side- cotton on other. Snuggly.  This time around I Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> I have been working on a new pattern– p.j.

  This little gal loves her blankie– which wraps up and easily buttons to keep her in.

She isn't so big– like 8" tall and her blankie is 12 X 12. Flannel on one side- cotton on other. Snuggly.  This time around I used a vintage sheet with fleece for her hair {love that i found that}  Her pajamas are an eyelet lace with of course a ribbon tie.  Her ponies wouldn't be cute without little ties either.  So, what are your thoughts?

Now come the insecure questions–

* does she need a little pink on her cheeks?

* are her ponies too big?  if you haven't noticed though– features have been over exagerated lately, so maybe she fits right in.

* does she need a mouth?

* face too big? again, with the big features. hee hee

let me know what you think– and i'll play a little bit more with her.

I mean, make her different. lol

Phewey Magooie girls!  I have finally sewn something– the next row for the Round Robin 3

 Pinwheel Row

by Patchwork Posse

For this row you will need 2 different colors for the pinwheels and a bit of background.  {I am running low on mine— eeep}  The blocks are easy to sew Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> Phewey Magooie girls!  I have finally sewn something– the next row for the Round Robin 3

 Pinwheel Row

by Patchwork Posse

For this row you will need 2 different colors for the pinwheels and a bit of background.  {I am running low on mine— eeep}  The blocks are easy to sew together.  I did lay each block out and then sew them together one by one.  That way i didn't twist the pinwheels or make them go the wrong way. 

You will be sewing a total of 7 blocks — they won't be the same length as the other rows. No worries though- when all lthe rows are sewn I will show you how to make them all fit!

Thanks to my helpers holding that row— since i have moved out of my moms and no longer have a design wall.  waaaa

Winner of Joy's pattern is– hold it now, there was no new photos loaded! so, joy. hang onto that until next time will ya?

For the next giveaway {which means there will be 2 prizes for the winner} I will throw in 3 patterns from the shop. You choose.

Don't forget– register for free– then post your photos in the gallery.

Row 1 by patchworkposse

Row 2 by patchwork posse

Row 3 by Crickets Studio

Row 4 by Joy's Quilts

August 8th– Robin from Robin Quilts

August 22– you?

September 12th– maybe another you?

September 26th– patchwork posse finish up!

Now– can you girls all see the empty spots in that calender? That means that I need some designers! Please contact me if you are interested in sharing your talent.

ok. since I have been in the black hole of computerless land {hope you can forgive me} I have finished up the second row for the Round Robin.

Clickety Click Here to Register

~Chunky Flowers~

As for the winner of the first row posted it is: Marianne!! Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> ok. since I have been in the black hole of computerless land {hope you can forgive me} I have finished up the second row for the Round Robin.

Clickety Click Here to Register

~Chunky Flowers~

As for the winner of the first row posted it is: Marianne!! Congrats… It will be sent shortly.

Check out the photos from the first border here

For the giveaway this time— how about

3 patterns from the shop!

{These are totally just examples– you can pick and choose whatever you like!}

For a chance to win– just register {totally free} and post a photo of your progress on your Round Robin!

ROW POSTING DATES:

You will get an email on the new post {if you register} or come back here on the dates or click on the sidebar round robin #3 button and it will take you to the main page. I have put the designers link to their own personal sites below- just in case you would like to check them out.

May 30th– First Row by Patchwork Posse- muah.

June 13th– Patchwork Posse- again!

June 27th– Carrie from Cricket Studio

July 11th-  JOY

July 25th

August 8th

August 22

September 12th

September 26th– patchwork posse finish up!

CONTACT ME TO DESIGN A ROW!!!

Sort of like Betty Crocker—  {someone at quilt group said that is what her name should be} lol

She is sort of a big doll…..at least compared to what I usually do.   She is 18" tall and 7" wide {not including her arms}

She comes with a removable Oven Mitt and Apron

Sort of like Betty Crocker—  {someone at quilt group said that is what her name should be} lol

She is sort of a big doll…..at least compared to what I usually do.   She is 18" tall and 7" wide {not including her arms}

She comes with a removable Oven Mitt and Apron

She loves cooking {as if you couldn't tell} and chatting it up while she does!   Her ponies gives her enough spunk to get away with a go-go skirt.

Her pattern comes with diagrams to help out with the steps… + full sized pattern templates.  It is a great pattern for beginners too— 

Right now, you can find her in my Etsy Shop.  {coming soon to this site too}

And- Apparently this is what happens when I leave the room and they are 'working' on their math…. um. right.

Thanks for your help on the Newsletter info so far!! I need some more inputs!  I put a quick link on the sidebar– just in case, you know– wanted to share 

Phewy

I have been working on a few new patterns and have 2 of them ready for selling!!

Monkey-Otso

Bunny-Otso

6" X 7"

{not including ears and arms}

Their arms are a bit floppy and their bodies are simple.  Couldn't be any easier than that!

Perfect pattern Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> Phewy

I have been working on a few new patterns and have 2 of them ready for selling!!

Monkey-Otso

Bunny-Otso

6" X 7"

{not including ears and arms}

Their arms are a bit floppy and their bodies are simple.  Couldn't be any easier than that!

Perfect pattern for beginners.  Mix and Match your fabrics or make them matchy-matchy. You choose.

I have this weird thing with making dolls that are truely playable. 

Their arms and ears are sewn INTO the seam and are secure enough for some 'Monkey-ing and Hoppy-ing' around.

The 4 page pattern comes with

• cover sheet with material list
• tutorial style with drawn instructions to help
• templates in full size

Of course all patterns are $5 and are emailed directly to you!! 

If you are subscribed to the Newsletter~ Read your email~ You got a SURPRISE!!

So, this Round Robin has been so different from the last one.  Don't you think?  I sure love it though.  All the borders have turned out perfect for the theme 'whimsical' don't you think? 

After looking at the heavy sides and a bit lopsided I decided that it needed something elongating!   Funny, how that happened?!  Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]> So, this Round Robin has been so different from the last one.  Don't you think?  I sure love it though.  All the borders have turned out perfect for the theme 'whimsical' don't you think? 

After looking at the heavy sides and a bit lopsided I decided that it needed something elongating!   Funny, how that happened?!  Well, anyways how about adding some whimsical long stemmed flowers.

Let's talk about the last border shall we?  Besides being tall and lengthy it does have a forgiving sashing to help out those that are having some issues with sizes and all.  I auditioned some borders after that {3 inch ones} but really came up with blah. So. I didn't do another one.  The mega pieced sides might need some stay stitching along the edge to keep it all in tact and not stretch.  I am thinking I might just end it here and do a red binding all the way around.  Something that will 'stop' it.  You might on the other hand find that you like an additional border to 'stop' all the business of it— if that is what you want, then do it! please don't think that just because it wasn't added that you don't do it.   Make it your own! I tell you.  Don't let us bossy sewing girls tell you what to do. 

I know you are all disappointed in that it is not quilted ~ you know I totally would have it done~  but….. my machine isn't set up.  So, you will have to just settle for the top.  When it is all finished I will of course show it off and give you some quilting hints. Until then…just image some swirls…. echoeing,….all that good stuff.

Let me tell you girls that if you are looking for a basic and pattern for beginners this could be one to start with. All the borders are very forgiving and can be made to fit if you run into issues with measuring things.  {you can see it, but I do have a warbely border in there}  So have a go if you would like and don't forget to share your photos-– we all would like to see your progress and quilt of course!

I haven't decided what to do next— maybe another round robin {2 a year?  is that too much?}  or maybe a challenge or some sort.  What do you think?  Let me know and i'll get right on it.   heehee

I will be combining the pattern and picking a winner for the last giveaway this week!!!  So get finishing up, or just catch up, or start off— any photo will enter you into the drawing!!!  Share your Photos here!!

I played around this week with a new pattern {coming out in May} and made up a few extras.

They are available for purchase in the shop.

I think I am in love with miniatures….. they are so sweet when they are smaller.  However, they give Finish Reading This Interesting Post[...]]]>

I played around this week with a new pattern {coming out in May} and made up a few extras.

They are available for purchase in the shop.

I think I am in love with miniatures….. they are so sweet when they are smaller.  However, they give you a little more grief when making. Get the pliers out on this one! The button arms {they move up and down!!!} are a buggar to get that needle through.  After a bit of sore fingers I gave up and brought in the big guns. {the pliers. hee hee}.

Notice their size?

pst— Super thanks for the kind words and support of the birthday.  I read a book out in the sun today– vitamin d!!! feeling a bit better, plus the day is over. On to the rest of the year. weeeee.

Carrie from Crickets Studio is up for the 7th border to the Round Robin!!! What do you think? Doesn't it fit right in with the rest?  I love it!!! Thanks CARRIE!!!

Before heading off to the sewing room to whip the borders up—here is a bit about Carrie~

Carrie from Crickets Studio is up for the 7th border to the Round Robin!!! What do you think? Doesn't it fit right in with the rest?  I love it!!! Thanks CARRIE!!!

Before heading off to the sewing room to whip the borders up—here is a bit about Carrie~

Hi there! I’m Carrie Graziano of crickets studio, and I basically love to create and make EVERYTHING! That’s why I opened my studio back in 1993, so I could show others how to do the crazy stuff that I think up! I’m a published author of decorative painting books and magazine articles, and before my kids came along I traveled around the US teaching cool students all about my art. I’m also an avid photographer and scrapbooker, having been in the scrapbooking business now for 10 years. To “relax” my husband bought me a sewing machine in 1995, and well, I haven’t stopped quilting yet. I did take a short break when my daughter (she’s almost 7) and my son (he’s almost 3) were born. I’ve been back for about a year now with needle in hand and ready to go!

My blog is fairly new, and I’m venturing out into the online world of quilt blogging and designing. Although I have taught quilting classes in my studio, “teaching” via a blog is a whole new world for me. Check out my blog for my new Tips & Tricks Quilt Along that just started this month. It’s the perfect follow up to Becky’s Round Robin….it’s a monthly class where at year-end we’ll have a lovely sampler quilt top, and some new techniques and tips under our belt, too! I hope to have more tutorials and another faster-paced quilt along up soon.

So, enjoy the fun side borders I’ve designed, feel free to pop questions to me. Remember to enjoy the journey!

~Carrie

The winner for the Kit by Beth is~~~

METZCAT!!

For the last Giveaway Carrie has offered up a

CHARM PACK OF PURE FROM MODA!!

To ENTER the drawing Post your PHOTO HERE!!!

What's Carri up to now?

 She plays along with Block Lotto-

Quilts-

She even has a Tips & Tricks Block of the Month!!!

Clickety Click here for Cricket Studio Blog

Now, instead of leaving you all hanging…thinking this is the last date on the sidebar– is this how we are ending it all?  Nope…..I have something in store, but of course you will have to have a bit of patience.  It will be shared in 2 weeks on February 7th.  Monday.  OK? Well, it will have to be cause it ain't coming any sooner than that. So.

Everyone get your quilt going!!! You just have to post a photo of your progress to be entered into the drawing. You DON't have to be up to the border we are on right now!!! So, get your machine turned on and your fabric picked out and get to it!!!  Like. Now. Um. Yea.

Up tomorrow– Trunk Show Tuesday!!!