Lilabelle Lane

New York Beauty QAL - 1st Block

2012-03-07T07:50:00.005+11:00

Yesterday morning when I was sitting here going through blog posts
over a cup of Coffee up pops the Blog post for the first block of the

New York Beauty QAL

Arghhhhh what am I going to do?
and where did the time go, I am so unprepared.

Deep breath, stand back and look at my fabric stash.

Not a lot in there to do a scrappy mix and no bundles that I wanted to use.

Would love to play with Batiks but no $$ for fabric this week :(

OK.....lets start somewhere ...... with solids?

I grabbed out every solid that I have

Not enough for 4 blocks without repeating a color

Standing back at the fabric stash again,

Word prints??????

Pulled them......don't have many of these :(

Did see potential though :o)

OK... templates printed, breakfast dishes were still in the sink and I had been no where near the laundry but I did have some meat out for Tea :o)

Oh...... Miss Lily had agreed to a PJ day Fantastic ...... here we go!

Now, to keep it REAL

here are my reject blocks for the day!

A lot of lessons learned in these blocks

so off to take two :o)

Happy with my color choices this time around

but imagine how great they would look if it went light / dark / light.

Now to sew the curves ....... grab a strong coffee, put tea on

(yes it really took me that long to get this far)

remember to breath and go for it!

I have not trimmed the blocks yet or sewn the four together.

I am not sure how I am going to lay out the blocks I will be making so I am going to do the trimming and squaring up at a later date.

I do like this idea on layout though

So are you game to jump in on the QAL with me?

Just click on the button below and it should take you to all the details.

Enjoy your day,

I've got some more paper piecing templates to print out.

Oh .. and yesterday laundry to do :o)

hugs,

Sharon

Dear Farmer, It felt like the longest wait.

2012-03-06T07:44:00.000+11:00

Do you remember this picture?

It is the digital mock-up of the fabrics (sashing and border) that I auditioned for my

Farmer's Wife Quilt.

I like how they looked and ordered them way back in early January.

Well guess what has EVENTUALLY arrived

I love them in real life too but now,

can someone please help me find my mo-jo for this project!

hugs, Sharon

Ouch .......

2012-03-04T07:27:00.000+11:00

Oh My Stars

With the change in the weather to cooler nights this week I have managed to

finish off the hand stitching around ALL the stars on my "Oh My Stars" Quilt top.

Do you know now, why I titled this post "Ouch"?

Yep my finger is a little sore from continually pushing that needle! lol

I love how the rainbow thread looks.

It will be the next Quilt top in line to be quilted as soon as I find the perfect fabric for the back.

My Miss Lily is having a Birthday very soon so I am off to research a cake design for her.

The "brief" as given by my client .. aka... Lily is

"Rainbow cake with Abby Cadabby"

Wish me luck!

hugs, Sharon

Modern Mini Challenge

2012-03-03T10:11:00.000+11:00

I have decided to enter the mini quilt that I have made for my

DQS12 (Doll Quilt Swap round 12) partner into the

Modern Mini Challenge.

Here is my finished Quilt

Finished Size - 20" Square

I have done a mix of machine and hand quilting.

It is Liberated Churn Dash blocks set in log cabins.

I love how it has turned out :o)

I get to enjoy it until I post it to my partner at the end of the month.

If you would like to see some of the other creations pop on over HERE.

Enjoy your weekend, it's rather wet here so hopefully some time for some stitching.

hugs, Sharon

Christmas Fun - 2nd Block

2012-03-03T08:02:00.000+11:00

I have finished off another block for my

Christmas Fun Wall hanging

Not necessarily doing these in order, just as they come.

Happy stitching, Sharon

Your baby wants a what?

2012-03-01T21:02:00.000+11:00

"A towel mummy, a towel"

Miss Lily had been busy bathing her babies on the change table in her bedroom this afternoon

but she didn't have a towel to dry them and apparently hers was to big.

(She had been into the bathroom and got hers but it just was not doing it for her!

So an impromptu drive to Kmart

and we came home with two white hand towels.

I grabbed out my Go Baby

Sorted through some scraps

Put the fabric through the Go Baby

and then ironed the cut-outs onto the towels

Changed feet on my sewing machine and did a quick

raw edge applique finish

I think the smile by Miss Lily says it all and this looks like one happy puppy!

$3.50 well spent.

Now she wants tea towels for her dishes :o)

Enjoy your day, Sharon

OPAM - February

2012-03-01T09:16:00.000+11:00

February

Here are my two finishes for this month

Sherbet Pips meets Little Apples Quilt

Simple Pleasures - Ruby Edition Quilt

I don't know that this little man qualifies for a finish for the OPAM because he is not a sewing project but I have added him to this post, just because :o) If anyone is interested in purchasing him please email me for details. He can be posted World Wide.

I can see March having some smaller finishes as I have a few things sitting here waiting for the final touches.

Enjoy your day and please, if you are in flood effected area of Australia at the moment,

stay safe.

hugs, Sharon

Swooning Sneak Peak

2012-02-29T07:27:00.001+11:00

Have you missed my Swoon Quilt?

I have!

Here is a sneak peak of it as at the weekend ...

The quilting on this one is a little different and

I am not able to pull this one off all by myself so I have in listed the help of

Linda at Lady Bug Quilting here in Bendigo :o)

A huge thank you to Linda for the photos,

you are doing an amazing job :o)

This is only the second quilt that I have sent out for quilting.

Linda also worked on Miss Lily's quilt for her "big girls bed"

Which can be seen HERE right at the bottom.

I am so pleased with how this is turning out and am looking forward to having it on my bed.

Only problem is that I am a "cushion/pillow girl" and I have just a few on my bed (by just a few I mean 10 decorator cushions/pillows!) so now need to think about how I am going to "accessorise" this quilt!

Enjoy your day,

hugs, Sharon

Monday's Making

2012-02-28T08:40:00.000+11:00

How was your Monday?

Mine was like this

Very Wet!

So much so that our back room became inundated with water.

Firstly on Sunday night .. around 10pm, then around 8am yesterday and again at 4pm.

So lots of mopping and cleaning that comes with water being inside.

Plumber arrived just after 5pm yesterday so hopefully the problem is fixed ... fingers crossed.

On a brighter note though :)

I grabbed this out yesterday

This is going to be for my Mum for Mothers Day.

I had to leave out all the light charm squares as the pattern got lost

and by 1am this morning I had a completed top!

Here it is this morning :)

I am pleased with how it has turned out.

Not my colours but they will suit my mum :o)

Finished size ended up at 47" Square.

Now when Miss Lily wakes up (she is having a bit of a sleep in as it's already 8.30am) I will hang it in her wardrobe (the only one with room) so when the desire to finish it off and quilt it hits, it is ready to go.

So how is your Tuesday looking?

On the weather front mine isn't looking to crash hot but hopefully I wont be on the end of a mop today!

Have a great one,

hugs, Sharon

"Little Apples" met "Sherbet Pips"

2012-02-27T07:27:00.005+11:00

Do you remember this Quilt top?

"Sherbet Pips meets Little Apples"

I made is back In November last year, you can see the post here.

I ironed my quilt tops when I was doing my Swoon quilt (more on this one soon, I promise) and hung them up in a wardrobe, which has proven to be a great idea as I now see them every day and thus, the desire to finish them off strikes.

Here it is now

I took myself way out of my comfort zone with the quilting and actually attempted a large Stipple / meander on it. I have only done this on little samples as part of the FMQ Challenge so moving to a larger object was a bold move! It is by no way perfect, the stitches are different lengths and there might be a couple of spots where I crossed over the thread but overall I am happy.

It is nice to have another finish with another top becoming a quilt for my family to use.

~ Quilt Stats ~

Finished Size - 54" Square

Fabric - Sherbet Pips and Little Apples by Aneela Hoey

Miss Lily and I might just have to go for a picnic lunch to give this one a test :o)

(not today though as after a sweltering weekend it is now raining)

Thank you for stopping by,

hugs Sharon

Saturday Round up

2012-02-25T20:30:00.000+11:00

I have a Blue Ribbon Baby!

See that Blue Ribbon laying over my baby boy ..... it is ours .. as in Jaxson's and mine!

and see that yellow star on it? That means he scored between 96 - 100 out of a possible 100 points.

Now the hard bit, do I sell him or keep him.

Might keep him for a little bit and see :)

~ ** ~

There were also some quilts on display and a viewers choice cushion competition

See No. 7 at the top, purple and black triangles...it was pieced to perfection.

Peaking my interest was the "In My Garden"

I couldn't get any closer for a real close up but it was a mix of needle turn and blanket stitch applique.

It might be what I have to do with mine when I get around to picking it up again :)

I am also fond of Teddy Bears and these were a few of my favourites

These this collection of dolls are a true credit to their makers

Now, as a Reborn Artist it is not very often that I see a Reborn Doll that I just have to have.

Normally I will just like the sculpt and make it myself but this little one is one of the very few exceptions

I just wanted to pick her up and bring her home

but sadly she was not for sale.

She looks so much better in real life.

As for sewing on this Saturday, I played with

Granny Squares

I am now turning these four into a Blanket of love

Enjoy your day,

hugs, Sharon

Bit of this and a bit of that

2012-02-25T09:33:00.000+11:00

I am in the "It's a little bit French" swap group hosted by Cheryl

and this week Cheryl sent out this cute fob.

Thank you Cheryl.

The Lavender sachet pattern HERE if you are interested.

I also decided to join another group!

I am looking forward to making more Doll quilts and playing with colours and ideas.

If you are interested in joining click on the button above and it will take you to the blog with all the details.

I will try hard not to procrastinate like I have been with this one for the DQS12

(It is almost finished so hope to share the finished item with you very soon)

~ Also ~

Have you seen a few of these floating around blogland?

Granny Squares

Image borrowed from Blue Elephant Stitches

I am not committing to a complete quilt or anything but I do know that I have a bag full of 2.5" squares so if time allows I might start making a couple and see where it goes from there.

The tutorial for the block can be found here.

OK.... today is supposed to be hot and sticky so I'm off to get ready and go see my Baby at the Doll Show and then home to hopefully do some sewing in the cool.

Enjoy your day,

hugs, Sharon

Christmas Fun - Block 1

2012-02-24T07:35:00.000+11:00

Christmas Fun

I have managed to get the first block for my Christmas Fun Wall hanging done.

I am really beginning to like the red and blue colour combination.

To me it is having an antique feel with the cream backgrounds.

Anyone thinking about doing Lynette's next Button Club?

First button is next month ..... I'm in!

No, it doesn't take much for me to cave in and start a new project :o)

hugs, Sharon

Playing with Dolls

2012-02-23T14:09:00.000+11:00

The Bendigo Doll and Teddy show is on this weekend

and I have to drop Jaxson off for judging tomorrow morning.

So I have been busy today playing ..... finding just the right outfit for him

and getting him just perfect.

I was going to enter two dolls for judging but I have been feeling unwell, especially in the last 48 hours so I gave up on the second! On the up side, I am feeling much better this afternoon.

If you are in the Bendigo Area or planning a day trip the details for the doll show are:-

Bendigo's 21st Annual Doll and Teddy Show

9.30am - 4.30pm

25th February 2012

Kangaroo Flat Leisure Centre

Browning Street,

Kangaroo Flat

~ ALSO ~

I am pleased to declare my blog

Are the double word verifications annoying you yet?

Having trouble and needing to have a couple of goes to get it right?

Well mine is off! :o)

I have had no problems with Spam.

The spam filter built into Blogger seems to be working at treat!

Why not consider turning it off on your Blog? ....PLEASE

after all, you can turn it back on and say that you gave it a go :o)

Enjoy what is left of your day

and if all goes well I will be back tomorrow to share a finish with you.

hugs, Sharon

What a surprise

2012-02-21T09:16:00.000+11:00

Thank you Lisa

Lisa was my swap partner for the "Little House swap" over at four happy Violets .

We are using the tutorial found at Retro Mamas to make a house and swap.

Mine arrived this morning and I love it. :)

What I didn't know though, was that Lisa was also my secret swap partner for the Autumn Swap that Cheryll is hosting. Cheryll hosts great swaps if you are ever interested in joining in on the fun.

As it happens, Lisa's Blog My Little Creative Wonderland is one that I read all the time and last week she posted a picture of her swap gift she had made. I loved it and even left Lisa a message

Sharon - Lilabelle Lane said...

Oh she is absolutely gorgeous ... I could see her keeping me company!

Someone will be over the moon to have her"

Well guess what.......It was MINE ... all Mine

and I L O V E it ... whoops her and Yes I am over the moon.

Meet Maple

We have been busy already with a little photo shoot :o)

Lily and I might have already had a little "dispute" as to who she belong to ...... I won!

She also came with some yummy mint leaves (I'm hiding these from the kids) and two lovely FQ's

and the perfect place for Maple.

I get to see her smiling face all the time.

You can rest assured Lisa, Miss Lily can not reach her here :)

Thank you again Lisa, I love all my swap items.

hugs, Sharon xx

I think I have done it ...........

2012-02-20T07:12:00.000+11:00

In my last post I was just a little frustrated that my quilt for the DQS12 was not taking shape.

I was so frustrated that I did the blog post after drawing up yet another design.

I then went and helped Declyn pack his bag as he is heading off on his School Camp this morning and organised the evening meal then sat and enjoyed the company of my family at the table.

After that everyone started going off doing there nightly thing, showers etc so I went back to "my space", looked at my design wall, grabbed my yellow fabric and started... again

It came together really quickly and I started to feel much better.

Before I knew it I had done 4.

Guess I just needed the right design to get me going again.

a long way from these four that I was struggling to do something with

I was on a roll and had my "mo-jo" back for this project so I kept going.

By 8.30pm last night I had this

I don't know much about by partner (she is very quiet in the Flickr group) but from my stalking I do know......

She likes color / rainbows

(think I have that covered)

Modern take on traditional designs

(Is a Liberated Churn Dash a modern take on the traditional Churn Dash?

and setting that inside a Log Cabin block?)

What I don't know is, Does she prefer hand or machine quilting?

Yikes ...... what do you think I should do?

hugs, Sharon

Playing with pencils?

2012-02-19T17:33:00.000+11:00

Eekkkk....... no real sewing to show!

Now to the reason that I have nothing show for the weekend.

I have been playing with ideas for the Doll Quilt Swap over on Flickr.

My partner is not very vocal so I may have to "wing" this one a little.

I have ideas floating (in my head) so time to do something about them.

So far I ~~have~~ had this .....

Scrappy Liberated Churn Dash Blocks

Plan one and any excuse to play with Pencils and color :o)

I was always a visual learner at school so drawing things out helps me get a grasp on what's floating around in my head.

So from that came this ......

Cute at only 4" each but then I decided I didn't like where it was going.......

and maybe just a little intimidated by the amazing quilts and ideas starting to appear on Flickr.

Nothing like a little self imposed pressure!

So out with the pencils again yesterday and today

(I will spare you the designs that are in the bin)

This is where I am at, at the moment.

I have to go help my No. 2 Son pack for School Camp tomorrow and prep some tea, so maybe some more playing with this later.

Enjoy what's left of your weekend.
Sharon

FNSI results ~ Christmas Angel Sneak Peak

2012-02-18T09:54:00.002+11:00

I had a great night last night (FNSI),

a little work on a few projects, all with a common theme, so let me share.

Christmas Fun

I managed to purchase some FQ's this week for my Christmas Fun Wall hanging

Not traditional but I liked them :)

So I set to preparing some of the applique blocks so that they would be ready for a quick "grab and go" project and with the Football season starting up again I will be having a few cold mornings in the car this winter watching son no 2 play :)

Remember, if you have this pattern / kit waiting for some attention you can come and join in the new blog set up to encourage this project to be finished in time for Christms 2012 ...... no monthly dealines just a great group of ladies working to a common goal ... a finish

Then I turned my attention to my

"Angel Swap" Commitment.

We have a list of 10 items to make our swap partner for Christmas

so I had a little play. I can't tell you what these item as are as my parnter might visit my blog and I don't want to totally ruin her surprise :)

First time I have played with the Blanket Stitch on my machine

and I will definately be using it again :o)

So, in reflection. I spend a lot of time going back and forth to the iron getting some applique ready but not a single item of clothing ironed! That's a good night :o)

I hope you had a great FNSI, I am off to visit some blogs and see what others got up to.

have a great weekend, Sharon

New York Beauty QAL

2012-02-17T07:28:00.002+11:00

I know that I do not need another Quilt-along to do

but this one (I think) will be good as a skills builder Paper Piecing and curves all on one .... I am a little scared! Here is the schedule for the block tutorials if your interested.It is only one block a week.

March 5 - Kim from My Go-Go Life {Block 0}
March 12 - Sara from Sew Sweetness {Block 5}
March 19 - Megan from Canoe Ridge Creations (Block 1}
March 26 - Kati from From the Blue Chair {Block 8}
April 2 - Jeni from In Color Order {Block 7}
April 9 - Amy from Sukie Don't You Know Who I Am? {Block 6}
April 16 - Katy from The Littlest Thistle {Block 2}
April 23 - Lee from Freshly Pieced {Block 4}
April 30 - Amy from Amy Lou Who {Block 3}
May 7 - Lindsay from Lindsay Sews {Block 9}

There is also a Flickr Group here

This mini quilt has me sold ....... how about you?

Photo borrowed from http://www.fromthebluechair.com/2012/02/wip-wednesday-2152012.html

Now I am off to pick out some fabrics and if I could finish something off before this one starts that would be a huge bonus :o) Don't forget that tonight is FNSI I am not sure what I will be working on yet as I plan on a little tidy up in my sewing space this morning so please call back tomorrow and I will share what I got up to :) Enjoy your day, Sharon

Sharing a UFO

2012-02-16T07:09:00.001+11:00

Whilst my Sewing Machine was in getting her service I dug out my two UFO's

The first one has now been completed and can be seen here and this is the second one

It is all pieced, it just needs the remainder of the faces to be painted on and the applique to be finished and there is a lot of applique.

hmmm.... I am just not feeling the love for this project at the moment but hopefully by sharing it with you I might get back into it. I did spend an hour or so with it one night last week but it is now hanging in the cupboard but I figure that is better than hiding on the back of a shelf.

Maybe seeing it every day will help me get the motivation to get it done.

Here are a couple of other closeups

The centre block is finished

Faces need to be painted

This is the only corner that is completed

and this one is half done.

It is such a big thing, maybe when the weather cools I might be more inclined to devote some time to it.

Enjoy your day, hugs, Sharon

SKOW Progress

2012-02-15T08:15:00.000+11:00

My Favorite Things - SKOW

It seems like it has been forever since I have worked on this one.

It is such a lovely quilt to work on and I am really enjoying it.

Here is my next instalment and monthly commitment for this "Stitch-a-long".

and all together

Now to put it back away for a while :o)

Enjoy doing what you love, hugs

Sharon

February Monthly Make ~ Jaxson

2012-02-14T10:43:00.000+11:00

My monthly make for February

Please welcome

Jaxson

Jaxson has definitely been a labour of love.

He has taken me many weeks to create

painting one layer at a time, baking between every layer and then

micro rooting his hair one strand at a time.

He is weighted to feel like a real newborn and comes in at around 6lb

He also has an anatomically correct belly plate.

Jaxson is heading off to the local Doll and Teddy Show this month

and then he will be off to Ebay to find his new Mum!

The theme for this years doll show is "Memories"

so Jaxson will be displayed in a hospital crip and my

hope/artists intention is to remind people of those moments when they

"gaze on awe at that precious newborn now in their life"

hugs, Sharon

Initial Heart Swap

2012-02-14T08:29:00.003+11:00

Here is the little gift that I made for my

Inital Heart Swap
Partner Christine

It arrived to her ealier this month but she didn't want to open it until today.

She is showing much more restraint than me!

I steered away from a traditional heart shape and decided to put my parnters inital inside a heart instead.

Christine has some beautiful photos on her blog of her flowers

so I hope she likes these ones too. Oh, and there were chockies that made their way into the parcel as well :o)

Another Fun little swap hosted by Cheryll, thank you Cheryll.

Happy stitching, Sharon

Seeing Stars all weekend

2012-02-13T07:12:00.002+11:00

I managed to spend a ~~little~~ lot of time this weekend working on my

"Oh My Stars" Quilt

First up I made a set (1 large, 2 med and 5 small) of the "Diamond Hearted" Star

Then I moved onto this one

Stars so far

I then decided to lay the blocks out so I could see how things were balancing out.

hmmm...... more green so then came this one (well a set not just one)

So now I ask,

How well do you know me?

What came next?

I L O V E the stained glass look :)

Did you pick it? Did you know what I did before I showed you?

I just could not help myself.

It is not as big as the full pattern for the Quilt-along but it still comes in at 69" x 73"

I pieced it together in sections, ironed on some Parlan fusible wadding then finished piecing the complete top.

I did this because I am hand stitching around every star in a rainbow thread before basting and quilting.

It might be hard to see but if you look at the bottom in the middle you will see the section I have already worked on. The final quilting will be simple in the ditch but hopefully will have a hand quilted look.

The parlan is great as it add some stability to the fabric, stops threads continuing to be a problem and now I don't need to be worrying about all those seams that I have pressed open.

My cute little helper in the background

So a very productive weekend for this project.

But, I never did get to cut into that Vintage Modern Layer Cake,

but, I do now have an empty Project Box :o)

I also have a sad looking collection of American Jane fabrics :( so might just have to add to that stash again............ I love a little Fabric retail therapy :o)

I hope you had a lovely weekend doing something you love,

hugs,

Sharon

Christmas Fun

2012-02-12T07:58:00.001+11:00

This seems like it is just meant to be.

I was surfing EBay one night night not so long ago and came across this

Christmas Fun Pattern and buttons by Lynette Anderson.

Placed a bit and the rest is history.

I was lucky enough to be the only person interested in them :)

Love it when that happens!

Well they have now arrived and guess what I stumbled across last night?

A new Christmas Fun blog to inspire and encourage those working on this wall hanging

If you are interested the Blog can be found HERE

There are no monthly deadlines. The aim is to try your best and get it finished for Christmas 2012.

I am now looking forward to picking some fabrics and adding this one to my WIP list :o)

~ AND ~

It is that time of the month again.

Sign ups this month are over with Heidi Why not come and join in for a great night of sewing. Happy stitching, Sharon

Digging out the Kits

2012-02-11T08:19:00.001+11:00

Confessing my Kits

OK, a couple of posts ago I asked, How many kits do you have?

It seems that it really ranges from only a couple right through to the "I'm not even going there" or "To many to count" replies.

Here are mine. Now bear in mind I have only been quilting for such a short time so have not had a lot of time to built a collection up but either way I don't think I'm doing too bad ... or good .... depending on how you look at it :o)

First one up is Girls Day Out, then Down the Garden Path (another Gollie Quilt, I will try to share my other Gollie Quilt with you soon as it's my only UFO at the moment) and then I have The Adelaide Collection Sampler Quilt

Next is my Bottled Rainbows Quilt (These are just the solids - the rest is sorted and ready to go), then Home Sweet Home kit from the Fat Quarter Shop (a recent purchase at a great 50% off) and then Hopscotch made in Bliss :o)

This one will be for my Mum, she knows nothing about it yet :)

This book, "3 Times the Charm" is full of patterns that only need one charm pack and a little yardage so for mums quilt I am doubling the size!

I have been wanting to play with Blueberry Crumb for a while so I am looking forward to getting into this one and being my Mum thinks the Internet IS Ebay (I know, I have tried to explain it to her but she just doesn't get it) I have no fear of her seeing it here on my blog! lol

and ..... look what I have :o)

yippie skippie!!!!!

I am like a pig in mud having my very own Vintage Modern Laye Cake.

If you are a regular reader of my blog you know that I love Bonnie and Camille's fabric lines and I was so lucky to get my hands on this one on Friday morning.

By Friday afternoon I found a pattern and a beautiful Blue solid to go with it so ~~maybe~~ this will be the next one my to do list :)

Looking forward to adding more kits to my collection ... just don't tell the family!

happy stitching, Sharon

QAL's - The Farmer - Oh My Stars - Rose Star

2012-02-10T07:19:00.002+11:00

The Farmer's Wife QAL

Back into the swing of things this week with 2 blocks

No. 61 - Northers Lights

No. 58 - Mother's Dream

Oh My Stars QAL

Three more sets of stars since I last blogged about this one

"Frosted Tip"

"Chevron Star"

"Patchwork Star"

That makes 8 sets of stars so far.

Rose Star - Paper Piecing

This is my third one so far.

Have you ever backed up your Blog?

I have not really given it any thought.

Didn't even realise it was an option.

But that doesn't surprise me as I am not a techno type of girl.

But after reading this **blogger Scare** post I figured there is no time like the present.

It is really simple to do.

If I can do it you can to, it is that easy.

The backup saves to your hard drive so if anything happens and your blog goes missing, you still have it to put back up :)

You can also save your template ... great idea, especially if you are like me and you keep tweaking your template :)

So if you have two minutes spare how about you go to

the backup instructions here and backup your blog.

Hope you find this a little help full.

Enjoy your day, Sharon

Farmer's Wife Quilt - Back to into it!

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000+11:00

The Farmer's Wife Quilt-a-long had a break over December and January and it starting back up this week. Amanda and Angela have suggested that we post pictures of our blocks so far as we get back into it. So here are mine so far for a refresher :)

and here is the "mock-up" of a few blocks with the fabrics that I auditioned for the sashing and border. The fabrics are slowly getting it way here from the US so hopefully they arrive soon.

So far I have made 57 of these 6" blocks, so only 54 more to go.

My plan it to try and get two more cut out today and not slice the end off my finger again :(

It is not to late to join in so if you are interested pop on over here for more details.

Have a lovely day, Sharon

New Mini, New Swap and a Heart

2012-02-08T07:16:00.002+11:00

New Mini Quilt for my Creative Space

I made this block for my "Oh my Stars" Quilt but it just didn't fit with the feel of the quilt that I am aiming for so I have made it into a Mini Quilt.

A little practise at Hand Quilting

It now hangs with another Mini Quilt I made a little while back

Initial Heart Swap Received

I was so excited yesterday when postie arrived.

He had a parcel in his hands and I didn't know who it was from.

I opened it to find this ....

My special Initial Heart made just for me, some yummy chocolates a cute little notebook for my handbag all from Illene. Thank you Illene, I love them all.

This now hangs in my sewing space so I can enjoy seeing it every day :o)

I have also made it in to the next round of the Doll Quilt Swap, Round 12 and my first time.

I now have my secret partner and need to come up with some ideas. This round you have to use a solid other than white and incorporate at least one of 5 different blocks.

Churn Dash/Shoofly

Log Cabin

Drunkards Path

NY Beauty

Flying Geese.

I need to stalk my secret partner a little before I start this one.

Happy stitching, Sharon

Simple Things Finished

2012-02-07T07:11:00.000+11:00

I am so excited that this one is finished!

Simple Things - Ruby Edition

I made this quilt by partaking in the

back in the first half of last year and if my memory serve me correctly it way my first ever Quilt-along.

I knew back then that I wanted a border so I had to just sit and wait for the yardage to come out and I have only recently decided on the Binding and backing fabric (Bella Solid in the light Blue to match the blue spot binding).

Got it all together, basted it Saturday and quilted and stitched the binding Sunday.

Finished Size approx 49" x 49"

I absolutely L O V E this quilt ....

the pattern, the fabric and the lovely group of ladies that I made it with.

It is a keeper and it is staying right

Here, where I get to see it every day :o)

Not only is this my first Quilt finish for the year it also means that I only have one UFO left.

I might share that one with you soon as it might make me kick myself in the butt and get it finished .... can only hope!

Thanks for stopping by. I'm off to dig out my Kits once the kids have left for school and see how many I really have :o)

hugs, Sharon

A day of mixed emotions

2012-02-06T10:06:00.000+11:00

Already my emotions are all over the place. Why?

My "baby boy" turns 14 today.

Aiden

Secondly, my other "baby boy", Declyn, starts his secondary education today

and as grown up as these two young men want to be they will still pose for a photo just because I asked :)

and that just melts my heart every time.

Here they are this morning, all ready to go.

Aiden is taller than me now and seeing them together like this makes me wonder how they were ever confused as twins when they were toddlers.

There is only 18mths and 4 days difference in age.

Enjoy your day at school boys.

And just to top off my emotions and make it three for three.

Do you remember how both our cars went out in sympathy with each other nearly two weeks ago?

Well our second car has had its f/end bearing replaced and hubby went off t work this morning, no worries.

The other car, our main car, went into be fixed last week. It had everything from the fuel tank to the engine replaced after a bad dose of fuel. Ouch that was expensive.

Well I was taking the boys to school this morning and to cut a long story short, I got half way and the damm thing just stopped and would not go. I ring hubby, he gives us a life home, boys walk the rest of the way to school and now that car is being towed back to the mechanic.

Like I said, a day full of emotions, of all kinds.

I'm off mow to give Miss Lily the biggest cuddle ever!

hugs, Sharon

Just for a moment forget about the

2012-02-05T07:40:00.002+11:00

UFO's and WIP's

There has been a lot of talk already this year about people finishing off their UFO's and how many WIP's that they have.

I only have 2 UFO'S thanks to my own "Making myself Accountable Challenge" last year- one of which I am hoping to get basted today and anyone who follows my blog knows that I only have 6 WIP project boxes (I actually have 7 active projects).

and I have to confess that I am so close to purchasing another ~~two~~ three or so!

I have even cleaned out my sewing cabinet to make room for them :o)

But, what I want to ask you is,

How many Kits do you have waiting for your attention?

These might be complete kits that you have purchased or they might be patterns that you have purchased and then sourced your own fabrics for, and have them sitting there, somewhere safe, waiting for your attention and time. They may not even be quilting projects.

I would love to know. Please leave me a comment and let me know or blog about it and come back and tell me so I can come and see.

I will organise mine (yes I have a couple) and report back to you.

Happy stitching, Sharon

House Ornament Swap

2012-02-04T07:54:00.002+11:00

This is the little house that I sent to Lisa in the

House Ornament Swap

It has arrived safely so now I can show you.

These houses are so cute and easy to make.

I can't wait to build on my own collection :)

Has anyone seen that fabric I have used for the roof in their LQS?

If so can you let me know the shops details as I desperately need some more for a special project.

Thank you and happy stitching, Sharon

Some Kind of Wonderful

2012-02-03T08:45:00.000+11:00

My Favorite Things -

aka the SKOW QAL

Just a little bit of hand stitching last night to finish off this block.

Thank you to everyone who has sent best wished about my fingers recovery.

It is looking much better today although it feels a little numb.

Yesterday I did manage to finish cutting the Farmer's Wife Block that I injured my finger on.

It was a slow process but it is done now.

Enjoy your day and have a great weekend.

hugs, Sharon

One Rose Thursday and the Farmer

2012-02-02T07:35:00.001+11:00

Here is the second Rose for my newly planted

Rose Garden

My two roses so far.

If you would like more info on this Paper piecing project you can

Find the tutorial here.

and an inspiring Flickr group here for the

Oh Dear Farmer,

Yes it is February and the Flickr Group for the Farmer's Wife QAL is starting back up.

I had great intentions last night.

I dug all this out

and sorted it all out

Yes I pin all the little bits to my design wall!

I am finding that I am having very very little wastage this way as I can see what little bits of fabric I have and I am using them :o)

Then I started cutting a block. Half way through things went a little pear shaped.

Ouch ..... off came the end of my finger!

No, I wont show you a picture of that but believe me when I tell you,

there is blood, it is still bleeding and still throbbing this morning

and the side of my finger is VERY flat when you look at it.

Not at all curved like it used to be :(

That's what I get for replacing my blade and cutting small pieces of fabric.

So Dear Farmer,

I had the best of intentions

(even though I still have no machine to sew your blocks together)

but now I am off work with a

Work related Injury.

I do hope to return to full productivity soon.

One down 2 to go!

Miss K starts back at school today.... YAY :)

She has been up since before 7 and it's just after 7.30 now and she is ready.

It is lovely to have such a keen child when it comes to school.

She is in Grade 4 this year and believes she has the best teacher ever :)

He is fantastic, Declyn had him last year in Grade 6.

The Boys go back on Monday.

It feels strange for me, having both boys in Secondary school,

and a little daunting with Declyn starting Year 7.

Come Monday morning, the boys will ride off one way and Keegan will ride off in the other.

Oh, and Aiden is not impressed. It is his 14th Birthday on Monday

so the last place he wants to be going is school.

Sorry Kiddo, that's just how it is :)

Happy stitching, Sharon

Name Game Swap

2012-02-01T07:14:00.002+11:00

I joined in with the fun of the

Name Game Swap

The idea was/is to make a small quilt with your secret partners name on it to go into their sewing space / home.

Here is what I made for my partner Jane - She has now received it so I can share :)

I stalked Jane's blog and discovered that she is running the Inchy Hexagon Swap, Loves modern piecing and then I saw her choice for the Blogger Choice FQ Bundle and off I went creating :o)

This was a fun little swap and I will be sure to share with you my name quilt when it arrives from my secret partner.

No sewing machine for me for a little bit as she is in getting her service.

I might end up suffering some sort of withdrawal symptoms!

hugs, Sharon

Am I your OASS Partner?

2012-01-31T07:23:00.000+11:00

Dear Secret Swap Partner,

I have had a wonderful weekend sewing for you.

With the Autumn theme I knew just what I wanted to make for you.

Would you like to see?

Would you like a new cushion for your couch?

I now have a problem dearest partner, it looks so good

sitting on my couch (in my opinion) that I need to make another, just for me :o)

A huge thank you to Cheryll for hosting this swap

and many others. They are always fun :o)

Now, Secret Swap partner, I can not let you know who you are just yet.

But you will know, when this arrives in your letter box :o)

Hugs, Sharon

Penny Rug - First part Finished

2012-01-30T08:17:00.002+11:00

Penny Rug BOM

After having a little clean up I managed to find my missing threads

so I got back to the stitching on my Penny Rug,

The first month is now finished.

Here is a close up of the vine that I have stitched on the house.

If you wold like more information on this Penny Rug you can visit

Melody's Blog where she is hosting this free BOM

Happy stitching, Sharon

Swoon Sewing

2012-01-29T10:35:00.000+11:00

Swooning just that little closer ........ Saturday Sewing

My backing fabric has arrived :o)

So just a little cutting and then sewing

Off to the ironing board for a quick press

Then laying to top on the floor, face down

Trimming all the threads

Off to the ironing board again

a good press

Now all hung in Miss Lily's wardrobe (the only one with space)

waiting for the next step ...............

Quilting

and whilst I was at it I also ironed my other two tops that I need to be doing something with.

Maybe if I see them every day I might be inclined to finish them off also.

and just because I can ...

another picture of the completed top

This will be the last time you all see it until it is finished and ready for my bed :o)

hugs, Sharon

SKOW - A tiny little progress

2012-01-28T20:07:00.000+11:00

I found a zip lock bag whilst cleaning up my sewing space today.

I recognised the fabric but was a little confused .......

So i grabbed out my "My Favorite things - SKOW" box and had a look

and all of a sudden I knew what they were for,

part of the sewing block for May.

Super cute and super small :o)

Now the hard bit is putting the box away for a little longer before I start up again

especially when the March blocks are yelling so loudly at me :o)

I want to but I wont ......

2012-01-27T18:29:00.000+11:00

There is just something about this block that makes me want to.

Want to what?

Jenny over at Sew Kind of Wonderful is doing a Quilt-along.

The "Urban Nine Patch" Curvy Quilt Along starting next Thursday

The block is yelling at me to join and I have never really sewn curves before!

( only one small Apple Core Quilt for Miss Lily last year)

I am ~~being very strong~~ trying really really hard not to join in (and please don't double dare me to because it really wont take much for me to cave)

but I just have to share it with you in case you want to do it.

And, if you do please let me know as I would love to follow your progress on this one :o)

I will be watching to progress of the quilt-along and even ordering the ruler ... it looks super cool!

See Here.

Now i really should be going and working on this one

Oh My Stars.

I think that I am about 5 star patterns behind thanks to my Swoon addiction :)

Enjoy your weekend.

We are still "double car less" :(

So staying very close to home.

One is getting the bearings replaced in the front end and the other,

well lets just say, everything relating to the fuel system, from the fuel tank to the engine has to be replaced .....

ouch ... that really is one bad batch of fuel :(

On the bright note she is booked into the mechanic next week.

Have a great one, hugs, Sharon

Penny Rug Progress

2012-01-27T07:57:00.002+11:00

I went in search of all my felt supplies to add to what Fiona sent me so I could get started.

This is what I am starting with

and my progress so far

Now to find my spare cottons and start stitching :o)

Enjoy your day, Sharon

Finishing a few things off .......

2012-01-26T07:53:00.005+11:00

I am in a number of swaps at the moment

so the last few days I have dedicated to finishing them off and getting them ready to post.

In this pile of pressies below

is a little something for my:-

"Initial Heart Swap" partner

House Ornament Swap partner

Name Game Swap partner

and there is also two of my three "Pay It Forward"

gifts from my Pay It Forward Post last year.

Here are two teaser pics and I'm not saying what they are.

That will be revealed at a later date once the items have been received :o)

So that only leaves me one Pay it Forward item to make and one other Swap to think about at the moment and that is the

I have an idea of what I am making but need to find out who my partner is before starting

and finalising fabrics :o)

and just because I can, I have joined in this one over at Willow Berry Designs

We have a choice of six different things to make for our partner.

My personal aim is to make one or two of each item shown each month

and place them into my gift basket (this is something new for me this year)

and then in 6 months we pick one item to mail to our partner.

Have a happy Australia Day

and if your not here in Australia have a fantastic Thurdsday.

Remember, do something you enjoy every day.

hugs, Sharon

Finished

2012-01-25T15:09:00.000+11:00

My first Rose Star!

Finished this one off last night whilst watching the tennis :o)

I think that there will be more added to this one over time.

I am using the left over fabrics from my Vignette Mystery Quilt.

Might even prep another this afternoon ready for sewing.

Thinking this will be my new paper piecing quilt but there is no way that it will be finished as fast as my Hexagon quilt as these take a lot longer to stitch together.

If you want more info look at my post below for the links.

My backing fabric for my Swoon Quilt also arrived today,

so I now need to think about sewing it up and then

trimming all the threads of the back of the top (I hate that part),

giving it a good iron and getting it ready to get quilted :o)

Enjoy your day, Sharon

Rose Star - paper piecing

2012-01-24T08:58:00.023+11:00

Have you heard of it?

They seem to be popping up and appearing more and more in Blogland at the moment.

Image found on Pinterest

Are you tempted?

There is a tutorial here.

and an inspiring Flickr group here

I have joined the flickr group and printed off a couple of the templates and that was going to be it as I thought it might be a project for the cooler months and one that uses scraps.

But, I ended up sitting up and watching the tennis until 1am this morning
and not being one to let my fingers rest idle I started one.....

It is a bit like putting together a jigsaw puzzle :o)

Enjoy your day. I will be stressing over mechanics bills!

Both our cars have gone out in sympathy with each other.

One wont start and needs major repairs and the other makes this dead horrible grinding noise.

Maybe I should not stress over the bills but go an play with some fabric,
that always makes me feel better, how about you?

hugs, Sharon

Something New

2012-01-23T07:12:00.011+11:00

Our Entrance has become a place of change.

It used to be the home of my Old English Pram but got moved out late November

to make way for my New Christmas Quilt and now it (the Pram) has a new home in the lounge room.

But it's not Christmas now and all the decorations have been packed away.

So I decided to pull out my Teddlywinks Quilt that I finished last year and hang it in its place

It looked OK but it was missing something, a bit of depth.

So I went Ebay "surfing"

I have always admired the Old Singer Sewing Machines

Always wanted one to but never done anything about it

Until now :o)

I found this old one. Bid to $30 (I know, last of the big spenders here!)

The seller said it was showing it's age and the wood need sanding etc

So I patiently awaited the couriers arrival and then carefully unpacked it, not sure of what I would find.

Well I was over the moon :) Not as bad as I thought it was going to be.

A good clean down and then a polish for the wood and I think I now have the perfect piece with "character and charm".

And the bonus ......

My entrance now displays two quilts

If only I could paint that horrible Yellow wall

but I will work with what I have :o)

Have you noticed my new header?

My new purchase has inspired some changes so I will be doing a little

"tweeking" over the next few days.

Now I wonder ... what are my chances of finding another Singer Sewing machine, one

with the intricate gold detailing and on an original table for $30? ..... No didn't think so.

Maybe I could just get some Old Wooden Cotton Reels?

Thank you for stopping by,

and I wanted to send a huge thank you to everyoe who has commented on my Swoon Quilt.

I appreciate you all taking the time to leave a comment but I have been unable to reply to all individually sorry but again, a HUGE THANK YOU.

Enjoy your creativity,

Sharon

Swooning to a Finish

2012-01-22T08:22:00.002+11:00

Deciding on the final layout has been one of the hardest parts of making this quilt.

Seeing the Swoon-along appear in Blogland was obviously all I needed to get this one made and off my "to-do list" for 2012. But, as can be seen here I have already added another two to that same to-do list.

I committed to make the quilt on Monday 9th after a fall out with another project.

I had fabrics picked from my stash on Thursday 12th

I mucked up one FQ when cutting and had to substitute :(

but, now I have a completed Quilt top,

with colors so far out of my comfort zone,

but I am so happy with it.

It is such a beast that I can't get my clothesline to go high enough so it doesn't drag on the ground.

and being that the colors are so far out of my comfort zone

I thought I would run with it,

so what do you think of such a bold choice of backing fabric?

Innocent Crush - First Impressions by Anna Maria Horner for Free Spirit

Only live once right :)

Now for the quilting.

It is booked to go to the quilters

but not for the quiting job your might expect,

something a little different

........ more on that soon :o)

hugs, Sharon

My FNSI - Vignette

2012-01-21T07:18:00.000+11:00

Vignette Blocks 8 & 12

A great stitching project for in front of the T.V.

Though, maybe not such a great idea when the Tennis is on

and with a great game being played like there was last night

as I kept pricking myself with the needle! Ouch :(

These panels are so long and seem to take forever to do but now it is started

I will just keep plugging away at it.

(Sorry, I have tried three times to upload this photo and blogger keeps putting it vertical)

I managed to get all the big pink flowers done and I started the butterflies.

The next Vignette Magazine is due out 1st March so my self imposed deadline is to try and get these two blocks done by then and be up to date for the first time on this one.

Also, in the last couple of days I have been playing with my Swoon Quilt so I will try and update you on that one very soon.

I hope you has a successful FNSI.

I look forward to having a look later to see what everyone got up to.

Happy Saturday,

Sharon

Bliss, Ruby and now Vintage Modern

2012-01-20T18:23:00.000+11:00

Yes i have a fabric Crush!

Just had to share this with you.

Anyone who follows my Blog knows that I have a thing for Bonnie and Camille's ranges of fabrics.

Photo from Camille's Site

Now I ask you ...... is this quilt above the next Swoon?

Maybe, maybe not,

but maybe this one below is ....

What I do know is ... I need to get both patterns :o)

(The Patterns are here if you are interested)

On a Whim is FQ friendly which is great as the FQ Bundle of Vintage Modern is on my wish list.

Hopscotch uses a Jelly roll and a little yardage so I am going to dig out my Bliss Jelly Roll and add a little bit of Ruby (for the blue points and binding) and a little Bit of Vintage Modern (for the neutral).

One of my resolutions for this year was to use the pretty fabric/fabric stash, not store it!

I have knocked the Swoon Quilt off my to-do list (still a WIP though)

and added another two. Guess that is how a quilters to-do list goes ... well mine seems to.

I'm off now to feed the troops, grab a glass of wine, settle in front of the TV with my Vignette Blocks, switch on the Tennis and get stuck into my FNSI.

Enjoy your Friday night, Sharon

Arriving by mail and an empty Design Wall?

2012-01-20T07:32:00.002+11:00

These arrived in the mail yesterday

from FIONA

She has been super busy recycling old blankets and clothing

so we did a swap (as did some others).

I jumped at this opportunity as I have been thinking about taking part in Melody's

free Penny Rug BOM that has just started and I love the idea of using recycled fabric.

Fantastic timing Fiona and a HUGE THANK YOU.

Such a lovely variety of colors to start me off.

Here is a look at the first part.

This image above has been borrow from Melody's Blog

I am looking forward to gathering up some more supplies and starting this one in the future.

Now, an empty Design Wall?

My loving family keep asking me if I am feeling OK

Guess they are just not used to it being completely empty!

I have assured them that it wont be for long.

Just let me finish sewing my Swoon Blocks

and then I am sure something will make its way back up there :)

Don't forget it is FNSI tonight. I look forward to stitching or sewing with you.

hugs, Sharon

Swooning Closer

2012-01-19T07:13:00.001+11:00

.... to a finish

Swoon-along

I had a bit of a productive day with four more blocks finished

On my first few blocks, I cut and worked on them one by one but, for these last four I cut them all out and chain pieced. For some time I felt like I was getting no where but then at the end they all came together quickly.

Now for a closer look ....

Print paired with Kona Cotton - "School Bus"

Print paired with Kona Cotton - "Dark Violet"

Print paired with Free Spirit Designer Solid "Red Plum"

Print paired with Moda Bella Solids "Etchings Slate"

Now for the next bit .......

Settling on a layout

I have some quilting ideas running though my head also so hopefully more on that soon.

Happy sewing, Sharon

Are you ready?

2012-01-18T09:03:00.000+11:00

The first FNSI for this year is this week,

Friday 20th to be exact and is hosted by Heidi and Bobbi....

What will you be sewing?

I am looking forward to blog hopping over the weekend and admiring all the creativity that is in Blogland :o)

What will I be doing?

Pick a Box - Any box!

My current WIP pile.

~From Top to bottom ~

Can you also see the pretty green fabric on top?

We went to Spotlight on the weekend and Miss Lily picked that fabric for a new dress.

Farmer's Wife

It is on a break until the QAL starts back in Feb so no rush on that one

In My Garden

Nope, not ready to get back to it just yet, still scared of the little pieces!

SKOW - My Favorite Things

Tempting, very tempting :)

Vignette

The Australian Open Tennis started this week so if there is a good game of Tennis on, then this will be the one

Oh My Stars QAL

I have had a weeks break from this one and am looking forward to going again.

Once Upon a Time

Hmmm........ tempting

or I could keep on Swooning.

I have no set plans just yet.

Happy sewing, Sharon

Who ever said .....

2012-01-17T07:56:00.001+11:00

"Pink and Green should never be seen?"

Silly old saying!

I have now added Pink and Green

and it is "Swooning" together

just perfectly (in my opinion)

I love the green solid on this block but just imagine how differently it would have looked if I paired it up with pink. Oh well, not this time, but in my next block there is pink :)

and a little blue.

These blocks are proving to be a little addictive so I'm just going to run with it.

After all, everything else I'm working on will still be there waiting when I am all Swooned out.

5 down and 4 to go.

It will be fun playing with the layout when they are all done

and for a project that is involving colors that are so far out of my comfort zone I am really pleased with how it is coming together.

Until next time, hugs, Sharon

Swooning some more

2012-01-16T11:10:00.000+11:00

Block 3

for my Swoon Quilt

as part of the

"Swoon-along"

So far I have three blocks that look like this

Are you Swooning-along to?

There are some lovely blocks appearing over in the Flickr Group

Happy stitching,

Sharon

Rainbow Play

2012-01-15T09:29:00.002+11:00

My scrap bowl on my cutting table was getting a little out of control so last night I set about sorting it into my individual colored scrap containers.

This lead to the realisation that some are a bit full and the Pink one, well the lid doesn't go on.

So, one by one I went through them and started pulling bits out for my bottled rainbow quilt.

Some colors I have well and truly covered, others not so much.

I need to start including Pomegranite (hot Pink), Violet, Berry and Cerise (all shades of purple) and Avocado (Dark Green) into my quilts.

One step closer to starting this one, just need to finish something so a WIP Box becomes available :)

If you are interested in making a Bottled Rainbow quilt with your scraps then go visit Rachel over at Stitched in Color. The link with all the info you need is on her side bar.

Until next time, enjoy your creativity,

Sharon

Swooning is fun :o) - Week 1

2012-01-14T08:11:00.000+11:00

OK, I am guessing by now that most people would have seen that there is a

"Swoon-along"

Here are my two blocks for Week 1

Block 1

Block 2

My pattern fabric is from an "Olivia's Holiday" Bundle by Tina Givens for Free Spirit

In Block one I added a Kona Cotton Solid "Ash" and in Block 2, I added the Kona Cotton Solid "Curry"

These are fun blocks to make and are by far the largest blocks I have made to date coming in at 24" square - that makes the quilt a huge (for me) 80" square once all sashing etc is added.

It's not to late if you would like to join in.

Last time I looked they were up to 389 members which means there are a lot of swoon blocks appearing over in the Flickr Group if you need any inspiration.

Enjoy your weekend,

hugs, Sharon

Blankets of Love

2012-01-13T07:28:00.002+11:00

Sometime last year I found out about "Blankets of Love"

It is a wonderful initiative started in Australia in 1992 by two sisters, one a midwife and one a quilter, to offer beautiful small quilts to parents of babies who have died at or around the time of birth as a lasting memento.

More information can be found here.

Then out of the blue I saw a link on a blog that I read all the time.

I decided then that I should do something and make some quilts but as some best intentions go, I did not.

I will not dwell on what I did not do, but concentrate on what I am doing about it this year.

This is my first "Blanket of Love"

It measures 26" square and is made using a "Puttin' on the Ritz" Charm Pack.

I finished the binding yesterday. All it needs now is a very simple

label saying "Blanket of Love" then it will be ready to mail up to

Cheryll.

See, it was on Cheryll's blog that I saw the Blanket of Love link on.

Every year Cheryll collects Blankets of Love from those who kindly make and donate them and then once a year she takes them to the John Hunter Children's Hospital NICU unit where, sadly, they are given to grieving family's.

Cheryll also has a Blanket of Love Blog if you would like to take a look.

If you are interested in making a Blanket of love have a look here for instructions.

If you love the idea but just do not have the time,

but do have a spare charm pack or suitable fabric

you are more than welcome to contact me and I would be

honoured to make a Blanket of Love from your donated fabric

and send it to Cheryll to pass on to the hospital.

This was an idea started out of Love....
but unfortunately continues out of Need....

hugs, Sharon xx

Swoon-along Fabric Selection

2012-01-12T07:33:00.003+11:00

Fabric picked

In my previous post on the Swoon-along I was toying with two options for my fabric selection - same as the original (I have a thing for Camille's fabrics) or using Hometown ..... well I have gone for neither.

I can't afford to be buying fabric at the moment so I "shopped my stash". Now you will have to use your imagination a little here as I haven't broken the fabrics up with the white, but I ~~think~~ hope they will work.

I started with this FQ bundle of "Olivia's Holiday" by Tina Givens for Free Spirit, spread it out and auditioned some solids.

Un-inspiring here but .....

What do you think?

It's bright and out of my comfort Zone!

I will be cruising the Internet now to decide if the solids or the prints will be in the centre of the blocks.

Being I have saved some pennies on this one by "Shopping My Stash" I might consider buying a bundle of this eye candy when it's available, just for me ........ and "just because" :o)

Modern Vintage by Bonnie and Camille for Moda

No real surprises here :o)

Enjoy your day and your Creativity.

Hugs, Sharon

Vignette Blocks 5 and 9

2012-01-11T07:26:00.000+11:00

I had been neglecting everything else I have been working onto get this project to this point but I am now pleased to say the I am half way ...... still two block or one issue of Vignette behind though :(

Blocks 5 and 9 are now finished

and for the overall look so far ......

I don't think that I will be rushing to start Blocks 8 and 12 as my right arm was feeling the strain of all that stitching so time for a break from this one for a bit.

Enjoy your day,

hugs, Sharon

Playing with Stars

2012-01-10T18:56:00.000+11:00

After making (almost) all those pesty little 4" stars with the tiny pieced centres I decided to look at the pattern and divide it up. Once I'd done this I saw that there is one block that I could make if I had just one other star in another colour ......

and while I'm at it red also!

So I pieced this block together (as per first photo) and grabbed out my Rainbow thread.

I have had in my mind what I might like to do to this quilt. I wanted a hand quilted look but didn't want to do all the layers so I looked into a Quilt-as-you-go method.

So the aim is to do the Rainbow thread quilting with just Parlan ironed onto the back and then, when the top is finished, baste as normal with batting and then just quilt "in the ditch".

This is how my first block looks and I think it is what I was aiming for but maybe on future blocks I wont do the rainbow thread all the way to the edge as it will be lost in seam allowances. I will just go back later as the blocks join and finish it off.

I used the rainbow thread on my Hexagon wall hanging and have been wanting to play with it again.

Also decided to go back and play with the plan and some pencils. I wanted to get an idea of how things might be looking / balancing out.

and now I can see another block almost filled (top left) so now on my design wall is this

with two more star variations due this week I may just be able to piece this block as well.

Can you tell it is school holidays? My blog posts are going up at night, the only time I can get any serious time at the computer :o)

Thank you for stopping by,

Sharon

Christmas Angel Swap

2012-01-09T20:57:00.000+11:00

Karen over at Mrs. Martins Quilt Shop is hosting a

Christmas Angel Swap

Spaces left are limited so if you are interested pop on over Here

The next bit has been taken from Karen's Blog for your Information

Let me explain what the Christmas Angel Swap is.

At the end of next week l will send out an email to those who have signed up to be Christmas Angels. The email will have an easy to fill in questionnaire. I want to find out what your favourite types of fabrics are, what your Christmas colours are etc.

Once l get your responses l will pair up the Christmas Angels. I will forward the your questionnaire to your partner. They will have some idea of your colours and will be able to make your gives to suit you.

Then l will give you a list of things 10 things. Most you will make but some you might raid your stash for. You may need to purchase something small. The aim is that you make or collect something, one for each month so that you can pace yourself.

On December 1st you will pop your goodies in the mail and post them off to your partner. We'll decide on the day that you will open them. And then if l ask nicely you might send me a pic of what you received.

If you have already signed up for the swap and got your acceptance email (remember numbers are limited) and you would like the Blog Button please either visit Karen's Blog or copy it from above.

I am personally looking forward to this as it will be my first Christmas Swap and I like the idea of the list or one item a month :o)

Enjoy your sewing, I've got my House Ornament Swap Partner, Hi Lisa, so I'm off to "Sew a house" or two (they are a little addictive)

hugs, Sharon

Frustration leads to something new!

2012-01-09T09:04:00.001+11:00

I feel like I have been up since the crack of dawn and so that I would not wake anyone I went and sat in the lounge room and finished off my Dragonfly block for In My Garden (Block 2).

Yay, super pleased with myself.

Went and Ironed it, then off to trim it to size.

A few profanities later and I have thrown it across my cutting table in disgust.

I don't know how but the three dragon flys are easily 2" tall and the block is only meant to be 1 3/4" tall ..... the math on that one just wont work no matter how I hold my tongue.

So in utter disgust I made a coffee and landed here ... in front of my Computer reading blogs and what pops up in the second post ......

That's it.... I'm in!!!!!!

I don't need any pushing on this one, especially being it is on my to-do list for this year :o)

So let it be said ..... In My Garden is on a break, after all I am not totally sold on Needle Turn Applique and maybe only one project with Needle Turn at a time is more me .... watch out Some Kind Of Wonderful Quilt, I should be back with you soon :o)

Now back to the Swoon Quilt-along.

Katy over at Monkey Do is hosting the Quilt-along and there is also a Flickr Group here if you are interested. As at the time I am sitting here typing there are already 170 members.

Now, any suggestions for fabric?

I am torn with going the same as the original

Or in Hometown, which is a favourite of mine or something different again.

I am open to suggestions.

Which ever way I go I will have to purchase fabric and that won't be happening until the kiddies are back at school ... dreaded book lists and school fees!

So, in revision. My early morning frustrations have turned into excited anticipation :o)

How's your day going?

Hugs, Sharon

Oh My Stars ~ Week 3

2012-01-08T07:39:00.000+11:00

Oh my... WHAT?

That was something like what I said when I saw the centre of this block!

It was not a problem or a concern when you are working on a 12" block

or an 8" block but hang on a minute ... for the 4" block .. the block that I am making 5 of!

That means that the centre, which has 32 pieces in it will need to be a mere 2.5" square

(and I thought that some of the Farmer's Wife blocks were testing)

Let me give you a little idea of how small the pieces are for the centre wonky star ...

The instructions said that this block was not for the feint hearted ..... not wrong there! :o)

The squares on my hand in the first row are only 1"

I started with the largest block and worked my way down.

The small ones are very time consuming but I think, worth the effort.

I still have a couple more of these little ones to do .. maybe in a couple of days :o)

This Quilt-along has been going slow over the Christmas break but is about to kick it up a gear so here is just a quick review of what I have done so far.

I am keeping with each star design being of one colour - there will be 15 different variations of the star.

Week One - BLUE - Simple Sawtooth Star

Week Two - ORANGE - Pinwheel Star

Week Three - GREEN - Sparkling Sawtooth (Wonky Star in the centre)

Each Week I am making 1 - 12" Block, 2 - 8" Blocks and 5 - 4" Blocks

A total of 111 blocks.

Despite my initial concern / shock about this block it is nice to be working on a project that has no embroidery on it :o)

Thank you for stopping by and enjoy what is left of your weekend.

Hugs, Sharon

It's a Cracker

2012-01-07T07:53:00.004+11:00

Guess what arrived late yesterday?

Yes my Cracker for the "New Years Cracker Swap" from Kate

Perfect timing, Miss Lily was very sick and mum (me!) was very tired

(thanks to a 3am wake up call to deal with sick Miss Lily and completely

change her bedding etc) ...... posties timing was perfect

and Kate, you lifted my day ...

HUGE THANK YOU

Almost to beautiful to unwrap ... almost!

That fabric is beautiful.

And it is huge :o)

Want to see what's inside?

I am one spoilt swapper :)

I think Kate has sussed me out pretty good ... see this

I have a "thing" for Bliss and Ruby and I've just signed up for a New BOM with the new range, Vintage Modern Collection, from Bonnie and Camille for Moda .... fells Like Christmas morning all over again :o)

All these goodies will come in handy and I already have plans for the fabric that was my Cracker and the cute little Birdie House Stitchery :o)

If you would like to see what I sent Kate CLICK HERE

Happy Sewing,

hugs, Sharon

Simple and Sweet

2012-01-05T10:43:00.000+11:00

My first Monthly Make - January

I have used the free tutorial over at lil blue boo to make this simple and quick sun dress for Miss Lily.

It took me half an hour and the material was only $4.20 ...so quick, cheap and in my eyes super cute :o)

Great for the Aussie Summer.

I can see a few more of these popping up in Lily's wardrobe.

Want to join in?

Monthly Make is being hosted over at The Felt Fairy.

My aim is to create something that I would not normally and I have succeeded this month as I have never sewn clothing!

Enjoy your creativity and thank you for stopping by.

Hugs, Sharon

Vignette Blocks Assembled

2012-01-04T07:59:00.001+11:00

Vignette Mystery Quilt

Hubby took the kids to the pool and I stayed home so what's a girl to do when she is home ALONE ...

not housework thats for sure :o)

So out came my Vignette Box and as anyone who is working on this project knows, all the pieces are now cut and in zip lock bags. So I put them together. Like I said, no one home, free floor space and no kids to run in all over the pieces.

In the collage above, the darker pieces are the ones that are finished.

The lighter ones are all pieced and either waiting to be stitched (blocks 8 and 12) or waiting for further instructions (Embroidery Patterns) in the future issues of Vignette (Blocks 10,11, 13, 14, 15 and 16).

The two missing blocks I am currently working on and hopefully wont be to far from finishing, especially now I have Tennis on the TV to keep me up.

What I am pondering now though is what, if anything will we be doing with all this?

It just seems like a LOT of left over fabric from the required Bundle that the pattern called for, for the top.

If it is for a pieced backing then my scrap boxes are about to get a top up .. might help out my Bottled Rainbow Quilt ..... or is there another border ... hmmm .... I wonder

Happy stitching,

hugs, Sharon

My fingers made me do it!

2012-01-03T20:04:00.000+11:00

Do what you may ask ...... sign up for a new BOM over at the Fat Quarter Shop :)

I missed out on this last time so I have got in early for this one.

It is a Mystery Block of the Month and this year they say

"we will unveil a spectacular vintage sampler quilt filled with traditional blocks guaranteed to fill your home with color and style! You will receive 12 different sampler blocks featuring the Vintage Modern collection by Bonnie & Camille for Moda Fabrics."

Did they say featuring " the Vintage Modern collection by Bonnie and Camille"

that had me sold!

and ....

"Our featured monthly designers are all Moda fabric designers and they include: Aneela Hoey, Blackbird Designs, Bonnie & Camille, Bunny Hill Designs, Cosmo Cricket, Fig Tree Quilts, Me & My Sister Designs, Kate Spain, Minick & Simpson, Pieces from My Heart, Primitive Gatherings and Sweetwater."

How could I resist?

Obviously I couldn't ......... especially being I also commited myself for the

Didn't want to miss out on these either.

Numbers for all three (the BOM, Finishing kit and backing set) are limited so if you are interested pop on over and register your interest.... I don't want you to miss out either :o)

The blocks don't start coming out until June so that gives me (and you?)a bit of time to finish a couple of things off before it starts.

Oh ........ my fingers also signed me up for this one .....

Starting in February

The Ute at the bottom jumped out and I just had to do it!

That's my excuse and I am sticking to it ... lol

Have you signed up for or know of any new BOM's?

Please feel free to share with me.

I think that BOM's are a fantastic way to feed a quilting addiction :o)

Enjoy your creativity,

hugs, Sharon

1st of Many?

2012-01-02T16:20:00.000+11:00

Fabric House Ornament

It is easily 40 deg here today. Everyone is flat and not doing a lot.

So instead of just laying on the couch I decided to have a go at making one of these.

This is my first one and as soon as I have finished with this post

I have plans for a second one.

These are so easy and addictive to make :o)

If you would like the free tutorial to make some of your own

or to join in the swap just go visit my POST HERE for the details.

Happy stitching and stay cool.....the Aussie Summer is here now!

hugs, Sharon

Vignette Mystery Quilt Progress

2012-01-01T21:31:00.000+11:00

Anyone currently working on this quilt will tell you that it has a LOT of stitching and requires a big commitment to stick with it... well at the moment I am still with it and manly thanks to the centre blocks. They have been a welcome change to the border blocks and I have enjoyed working on them.

In the beginning, if I knew what I know now, I doubt that I would have taken this one on.

But, with that said I am pleased that I am doing it and I am super pleased that it is taking shape.

I have now finished two centre blocks and am now working on blocks 5 and 9.

Thank you for stopping by today.

Happy stitching, Sharon

Cracker Swap

2012-01-01T10:29:00.000+11:00

Lisa over at My Little Creative Wonderland hosted this fun idea for a cracker swap. The idea was to take a 5" piece of board roll it and create a cracker that would be filled with notions for your partner then wrapped in fabric.

I was lucky enough to be paired up with Kate over at Show and Tell. If you have not seen her blog yet I suggest that you pop on over. She is super creative and productive. She is always creating stuff that I would love to add to my every growing "to-do" list.

Kate also has a love of all things "Hatched and Patched" and is very lucky to live near Annies Shop "The Home Patch" so with this in mind I decided that my cracker would be a little inspired by Hatched and Patched an no longer be a cracker but a Bon Bon ... even a somewhat over sized Bon Bon to fit all her goodies in :o)

And what was inside the Bon Bon ..... hopefully things that Kate can use,

all in the colors that are quite often seen in her sewing projects.

5 different colored Ric Rac

5 Matching Ribbons

F/Q of Fabric

Embroidery Thread

Assortment of Flower Buttons

Cute Quilter Scissors Button

Container with an Assortment of Red and Green Buttons

and of course some Bells .... just wish I could have found some rusty ones like the ones that Kates uses quite often.

Kate has now opened her cracker/Bon Bon so that's why I can snow share here with you.

She is teasing me today with this pic she posted on her blog today :o)

Beautiful Fabric and I can't wait to see what is inside ... my inner child is coming out :o)

Hurry up Mr. Postie .....

Happy New Year

Sharon

Fabric House Ornament Swap

2011-12-31T00:07:00.000+11:00

Are you interested in a Fun Little swap to kit start the New Year?

Have you seen the GORGEOUS fabric house ornament tutorial over at Retro mama?

Aren't they cute?!!

{photo from Kim's blog retro mama }

Kirsty over at four happy violets is hosting a House Ornament swap using the above tutorial .
The idea is to sew a house send it off to someone and receive one in return . You must be willing to post internationally. Sign up is now and you have until the 1st of March 2012 to post.

I see myself making a few extras as they look so super cute :o)

For more information and/or to sign up pop on over to HERE

I'm off to bed now .... I have been up late working on my Vignette Mystery Quilt and have a very sore finger from all those flowers!

hugs, Sharon