They Are Plotting Against Me

I mean for me. . . .

no, against me. . . .

well, whichever???

Over the past several months,

I have spent lots of time and energy decluttering.

Part of this process included going through my fabrics.

It a most cruel process having to decide which to keep

and which to be rid of.

The other day, I was in a thrift shop down town and

happened to run into someone and, as it turns out,

we know a few folks in common.

(Small towns, it's more uncommon not to know someone in common.)

We chatted a bit about what we were hunting for.

When I told her I like to just see if there are fabrics

that could be use for stitching, she asked

if I ever used wool.

Well, of course I love wool.

She asked if I could use some pieces so I said sure.

I've had folks offer a piece here and there.

It's usually just that - a piece or two.

She brought me two large garbage bags and a big box.

There were pieces like the picture above and others

that were wool garments that had been washed.

She said she thought she would make a rug one time

but has never gotten around to it.

When I asked her if she wanted any of it back if I didn't think I would use it,

she almost "Noed" before I finished asking.

I have about 3-4 garments left to get the zippers out of,

seams opened up, buttons off, etc.

I've now come to realize, it's hopeless.

I am a fabric-aholic.

I don't think this disease is curable:)

WooHoo!

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Just One Stitch

As many of you are aware,

the last couple months have been a little trying

in our corner of the world.

During that time, I did little if any stitching.

The other morning,

I decided that I was going to 'play' in the fun room for a few minutes.

I was only able to make one more block,

but the therapy was wonderful.

It felt so good to get lost in points matching

and press towards the orange,

and not think about all the "stuff" we have to think about each day.

There will eventually be 99 of these blocks

to be set into a pattern.

I think I have 11 or 12 done.

I usually work on hand stitching so making a w-h-o-l-e block

in just a short period of time was very rewarding.

Perhaps you too have a therapy activity.

My wish for you is just one block:)

If nothing else, I hope you find that little bit of peace today

that rewards your heart and brings you joy.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Washing State Quilt Show

In the last post, I mentioned that 

we went to the Washington State Quilt Show

in Spokane ~ now a couple weeks ago.

Before we hop into details and pictures,

I have to say, "This was probably one of it not the

nicest quilt show I have attended."

There were quilt police

so that food and drink were kept completely out of the areas

where quilts and vendors were.

There were volunteers with cotton gloves to answer questions

and show the backs of quilts

if one desired to see them.

In all it was said that there were about 500 volunteers.

The quilts were displayed nicely and by category

which aided in viewers choice voting.  

That was just the quilts.

I haven't even made it to the vendors yet.

They were wonderful as well.

It took us the better part of a day just to make it 

around to see all of them.

I didn't get too out of control.

I did find a couple pieces of fabric 

to go with some I already had so I can

get going on a project.

My weakness is books~

These two in particular. 

"When the Cold Wind Blows" and "Autumn Splendor."

Both include lots of hand stitching of course.
And on that note, I will admit to being fully biased.
I prefer hand-stitching over machine-stitching.

This was my favorite in the whole show.

It wasn't a ribbon winner, but it had 'something.'

Those little yoyos were about 1/4"-3/8".

These shaped yoyos were maybe 1/2".

The artistry of this one was fabulous.

An obvious ribbon winner.

 Sorry this is a little out of focus.
The quilt was up high for me as I am a bit vertically challenged.

Then a couple of old tops that I just liked.

I love the secondary 4-leaf clover that this pattern made.
Below, a true make-do top. 
Can you see where they pieced within the strips
to make them long enough?

If you are in the Pacific Northwest next October,
I would strongly suggest visiting this quilt show.

It's amazing how the standards and quality of a show
or event of any sort seems to resonate
and be both seen and felt throughout.

Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Cathedral Window Update

Just in case you thought I was slacking...

well, I might be, but I'm making progress.

It is a very slow going piece.

I now have all 99 blocks made 

from the 398 smaller blocks.

Aaaaand...from those 99 blocks,

I am now joining them into pairs,

then onto the main piece which will eventually

end up being the coverlet.

I didn't show all 99 of the blocks as they are

stowed away in a basket so I just took out a hand full.

I am still working at it.

Really I am - here's the needle.

Maybe by fall it will look more like a real coverlet.

A word to anyone who is considering making this pattern.

You need to be okay with so-so.

If you are a perfectionist, you might grind your teeth down

and need to learn wittlin' so you can make some new choppers.

I have been adding beads to distract add to the design.

The design is flawed!

There is no way to fold 4 layers of fabric

into a perfect angle of about 15-20 degrees.

(Side note: I'm so old, I remember degrees symbols on typewriters.)

In order to make the point, 

you must roll the fabric over creating the appearance

of another seam.

Also, in the points, if you do attempt to make them perfect,

there is a very small corner of the raw edge of the window

that will show.

Had I known these things prior to making it,

I might not have committed to a queen size coverlet.

Hubby loves it and thinks it is beautiful.

He likes the effect of the fabric folding and the colors.

So it's his:)

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Perfect Stitching Frugal Tip (A DIY)

In case you are newer to this blog,

I am a crazy quilter.

Maybe it's because there is no such thing

as a wrong crazy quilt.

There are a few specifics I like in the design

on some of the crazies though.

One thing is the right color for the accent stitches.

I love the old fashioned wool crazies

with big primitive looking stitches.

Here in-lies the tip:

Use size 30 crochet thread

(often found at thrift stores for a quarter - as long as

it's not stained, discolored, or smelly, and is in good condition.)

Then comes the fun part. 

Dye it the color you want it.
Even if the crochet thread is a color,
I typically just dye them a darker shade.
In the picture above, the peachy color
would go into a pumpkin colored dye, etc.

I often end up dying a piece of wool

a specific color. 

So when that happens,

I throw in some thread.

Here is a vintage yarn winder that I use 
to measure how much I am pulling off the spool/ball.
You could also use a notebook or hardback book,
just so you can slide the thread off of it easily.

Note:

If you have left over dye,

add a little vinegar, label it and save it

until your project is finished.

If you don't, you'll end up needing more of that color.

I know there are some very good quality threads and flosses

out there that are sworn by.

I happen to live in No-where-ville.

We don't have a quilt shop any more.

We do have a newer fabric/craft shop,

but they are a small business trying to make it.

They have many necessities but

not a lot of specialty items.

I don't want that to sound negative in any way as

I am extremely grateful for them.

However, by dying my own,

I end up with a perfect matching/contrasting thread.
(and fingers too as I usually don't wear gloves:)
I like two strands on wool.
One strand on cotton is very dainty looking.
To me, the colors just seem more genuine.
Of course, if you don't like to dye things,
you might just stick to store bought.

Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

*~*~*A Little Christmas Stitching*~*~*

No laughing,

but after I finished writing my couple of cards

(to those who would otherwise think I was dead,)

I actually spent a little time stitching.

It's just a little quilt

made from the scraps of a much larger Christmas quilt.

I have had the stack of scraps sitting there

in my way for ages so decided to get rid of them this way.

They aren't finished and aren't really Christmas fabrics

but will make a nice little doll quilt

or table topper.

Sometimes these weird little projects

turn out to be some of the most fun to do,

because they don't have to be 'just so.'

So far that's how this one is-

just a fun little thing.

I wish you all a very merry

and blessed Christmas.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Bea's Stitches

Many years ago,

I was visiting some friends

and happened to admire a certain pillow.

I was informed that 'his mom (Bea) made it.'

And theeeen....

"I have her stitch guide she drew up

if you would like to see."

Within minutes, 

I was holding the pages with hand-drawn stitches,

designs, and motifs.

I asked if I might just borrow them 

for an evening or two.

"Oh, of course."

I drew them all out by hand just as she had done.

I kept them in an old organizer/planner

that needless to say is not only very out of date,

but also in pretty bad shape.

(It was really embarrassing actually.) 

So, when I visited recently,

I asked if they had a picture 

of Bea that I could borrow and return.

I was presented with a few,

and chose this one.

I embellished it just a tad:)

I'm going to take this to show them 

when I go to make them dinner Friday
for his 93rd birthday.

I also have some of Bea's recipes.

I used 3 rings so that I can add them to it.

If you would like to learn from my mistake:
Notice in the 'B' a water mark.
There was a little (maybe 1/16") white spot
of iron away pen that wouldn't iron away.
I barely dampened a q-tip
to try to remove it.
I was soooo upset.
Don't use water or iron out pens on photo transfers.

Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Really I'm Stitching

Cathedral Window Progress

Just thought I would let you know

I really have been stitching when I can.

I seem to have 2 or 3 hand stitching projects

all going at the same time.

Also, I still have issues showing incomplete work.

I first mentioned it here.

So 396 squares later, I am stitching.

I stitch 4 squares together,

then add the windows.

Next, I will put 2 of the 4-square blocks together,

and add 2 more windows where they join.

I have 14 of 99 4-squares done.

Only 85 more to go:)

Does no-one else question my sanity?

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches 

Bit O Blarney

Just a little something I actually made 

for last St. Patrick's Day.

I tried to keep it pretty simple, and was pleased.

It was one of the first things I sold on etsy:)

My description had to have a little disclaimer though:

As I was walking to the corner this morning, I heard a small rustling near the river. I am used to seeing and hearing small creatures where I live so I wasn't alarmed; however, when I glanced over toward the direction of the sound, I spied something unusual. There near a large moss covered rock were 3 intriguing mushrooms that I don't recall being there as well as a small green top hat trimmed with golden thread, buttons, a small piece of lace and a fine feather. It appears as though something (or someone) was making a quick get-away as he seemed to have spilled part of his treasures. The tallest mushroom measures about 4.5 inches tall, and the hat is about 2 inches tall. 
This set includes the hat, 3 mushrooms, and the spilled gold (about a tablespoon).
Little disclaimer: This isn't real gold, and I actually made these items, but it's such a lovely story for the young or just the young at heart.

I love the little hat.

As you can see, we had a little warmer spring last year.

No sunshine or vibrant green moss yet.

~Soon~

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Fun Doing Laundry

So maybe I'm warped, but a friend gave me a recipe for homemade laundry detergent, and I just ran with it.

I mentioned in my last post I got a couple other things at the estate sale I would show in a later post.  Well, here goes...

I found these two beautiful carafes.  In the shorter one, I put my homemade laundry detergent, and in the taller one with a handle, my homemade fabric softener.

As if that wasn't enough, the measurements are in tablespoons so I found a couple old pretty spoons and stitched up a little fun.

Theeeeen... I ran across the idea of wool dryer balls.  I have of course heard of them and seen them.  Why I never thought of making them??? 

So I made some.  They are so easy.  Just wind up a ball of yarn just like you used to do for Grandma when you were a kid.  When they are a little larger than a tennis ball or about the size of a smaller orange, tuck the end in and tie them individually in an old nylon.  Run them through the washer and dryer, then remove them from the nylon.  If you do this, remember worsted wool will not felt so be sure to use regular wool yarn - I used the one for fisherman's sweaters.  
I have a pretty little spot on my dryer now, and all of my laundry is done because I have been so excited about using my new toys.  Yes, I know little things - little minds.  I must be okay with that, because I'm loving it.
Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

Oh Happy Me - WIP

Night before last, I returned home after working, and it was there.  It was the package I had been waiting for.  For two long weeks, I waited and waited anxiously checking the mailbox each day.  And what was I waiting for?

Aren't they pretty?  14 new colors.  I have about a dozen colors and got started using this #8 pearl cotton so wanted to remain consistent.  

Now you will either laugh at me or cry with me.  I love living in a rural community, but trying to find certain things such as pearl cotton is a bit challenging.  The closest pearl cotton is an hour away and only a few basic colors.  It is at times like these that I value the internet.

And to show you what I am using it on...

These are all works in progress so please excuse my markings and a few of the stitches that require more than one color are incomplete.

This will be a long term project as I don't get to work on it a lot.  None of these blocks are finished as I was waiting for more colors.  Now I can finish up a block at a time which is more like me.

I'm not quite sure how it happened that I have two hand stitching long term projects going at the same time.  Baaad me, shame on me.  Oh well, I won't be board - will always have something to work on.

The other long term project in my Cathedral Window quilt which if you are keeping track (as I'm sure you are:) I only have 54 more blocks to iron.

Keep warm and until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

We've Come A Long Way Baby!

As I have been preparing for the upcoming show, I have also been trying to edit my stash.  I think that's just the fancy word for cleaning, but it doesn't sound so laborious.  I came across a stack of blocks that I cut in 1989.  I can't believe I am admitting that online.

  

That was in the olden days - before rotary cutters, rulers and mats.  I just have to say, "I love my rotary cutter!"

I was able to piece it surprisingly well for as odd as the blocks seemed to be.  They were closer than I thought they would be.  Most of my corners even match.

  

I did all of this before I even really knew anything about fabric.  Some of the pieces still had the selvage.  It was 'sew' weird.  I am getting ready to sandwich it and quilt it, but so far it has turned out kinda pretty.  

This little nostalgic trip back in quilting time has made me realize just how far quilting has come and how far I have come as a quilter.  Whew.  See, reading all those books and magazines, visiting all those shops and shows, and "practicing" really pays off.  I think I just came up with my new excuse reason to stitch rather than do housework.  I am practicing my quilting so I can get really good at it.  Oh no, I am not very good yet.  Need to keep practicing.  I just can't get it quite right.  Let me try for another hour or so.  I think then I'll 'get it.'  I might need to practice some more tomorrow.  Okay, I'll stop. Quilting really has come a long way though, and I am glad to be in the company of like minded stitchers.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

  

Vintage Photo & Wool Needle Book

My first one finished.

I have been playing, making things for me and haven't really been creating for the holiday shows yet.  I have done a few things, but I need to get crackin'.  I will be making a few more of these little needle books - a couple more with this image and a few with a little vintage angel image.  It took me longer to decide what embellishments I wanted than to actually put it together.  The others might have some slight variations, but will probably be extremely close in design.  Just had to share.  Have a beautiful weekend.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches



Just a Taste

I don't know if anybody else is this way or if I am just weird, but I don't like to show unfinished work.  They have been lovingly tagged as UFO's or WIP's, but I still have problems in sharing them.  It is not, however, very fair to you that I continue to say working on the crazy quilt or the this or the that and never even give you a glimpse of the project.  Sooo, I am trying to break out of my box - okay maybe just peeking out from a very small hole, but nonetheless, I am showing you a little sampling of where my efforts have been focused for the past few weeks.

I kinda feel like this some days when I look in the mirror.  She was just a fun little addition.

I shared one photo a while back of my favorite little spider.

 By now you can probably guess the theme of this quilt.  I have always wanted to do a Halloween quilt so finally got with the program and am doing it.  It's a hoot to think of the silly things to add.  I don't want it to be a scary quilt, but a happy quilt - one that makes people chuckle when they see it.  Do people still use that word?  Hmmm, I like chuckle. I will share just a couple more pictures then go get busy so I can finish it and show you the whole thing.

Pretty scary huh?

This photo isn't perfect, but you can see that it's one hot cauldron.  I can hardly wait to finish it and hang it up.  It might be up a little longer than Halloween - we'll have to see.

Have a splendid holiday weekend & until next time,

Nimble fingers and even stitches.

Cathedral Window Quilt / Coverlet

Good Morning Everybody,

I have began a project I shouldn't be working on just yet.  I have a challenge quilt due by the end of the month, and I started on my 'Cathedral Window' quilt.  Baaad me - shame on me.  I just couldn't help myself.  Our bedroom is in a sorta pumpkin spice color as well as antiqued bronze, and I am making it for our bed.  This will give you a bit of an idea what it should look like.

The ladies in Baker are making one for next years raffle which inspired me.  I love the hand work.  Nothing like having a needle in hand.  Most Cathedral Window quilts I have seen have either a white or unbleached muslin background fabric (of which it takes 25 yards.)  With such a requirement, it is easy to understand why muslin is so popular for the background.  I chose to use a dark for the background then have the 'windows' be vibrant.  I am using several background fabrics all of which are a very dark brown/black.  They start out as a 9.5 inch square. 

That is actually pretty easy - other than the mass quantity needed.  I am somewhere between half and two-thirds of the way with this step.  I think I need about 10 more yards of background fabrics.  Anybody considering making one of these, be advised: there is A LOT of ironing.  Once all of the 9.5 inch squares cut, I fold them up using an iron to become a four inch square that looks like this.

I have 97 of the 396 needed that are completed to this stage.  (that's 1/4 of the way:)  I am stacking them so I can keep track of how many I have.  I had to have some way of organizing them.  Once I get them all ironed, I will have to stitch the 4 corners together - yesss, on all 396 of them.  Actually, I am looking forward to that stage as it will mean the ironing is finished.  Then I will get to ladder-stitch them together side-by-side to create the real background for the windows.  I will probably do this in sections (as I was advised to do.)  After that (we are so in future tense now) comes the making of the windows.  I need 696 2.5 inch squares for the windows.  I have about 3/4 of what I need for those. 

I am using a variety of different prints for these as well - but all in the same color range.  You notice I am using the 'make a pile' organization method for these:)  I will be putting them in a basket here shortly as I don't want them to fray or scatter etc. while the background pieces are being finished.

Then at last, I will get to make the windows. 

They will look something like this.  The 2.5 inch square is placed in each 'frame' and the edge is folded over to create a scallop shape and stitched in place.  I can hardly wait!  I have also learned that this is actually considered a coverlet because of the fact that it has no batting.  I have a feeling that it will be plenty warm enough considering the fact that there will be 25 yards in background plus the windows over us.

Soooo, now I am off to work on the challenge piece - I really am making headway on it and am enjoying working on it.  The UFO's are calling my name.

Until next time ~ Happy Stitches & Many Smiles.