Sew Fantastic

Launch Quilt

2012-01-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

The New year has brought on many new projects, as well as a few old ones that need a little finishing touch. My supplies came in to finish the back end of this quilt, and I could not wait to see it done. Something about bright colored fabrics that just motivates me to complete it.

Remember this awesome stack that Lesley sent over. Her fabric line is simply fun and wonderfully weighted. I was very impressed with the weight of the fabric, as well as the vibrant color. It made for a very fun quilt in the end.

This quilt block is called cracker, or cracker box. I intended to write a tutorial for this quilt so that everyone can make one, until I found one already done here. It's a slightly different layout then mine, but wonderfully done.

My measurements were very close to this tutorial. This "Launch" was quiltied in a triangler wonky pattern, trying to keep the effect of space. I tend to not be a symmetrical quilter, I love wonky quilting, so this one was no exception. The back is pieced with Kona and the leftovers from my FQ bundle became the most perfect scrappy binding.

This one is ready for Blastoff...

Thank you Lesley this was some of the most fun fabric I have ever had the joy to work with.

Of course it rained just in time for the big finish, but this quilt is taking off rain or shine!

Fabric Line used

"Launch" By Leslie Grainger for Robert Kaufman

Kona solid in Lime, Tomato, and Ocean

Quilt size 45"x55"

Quilted on a domestic machine in a triangle type design by me.

Launch is available at these shops

still Swooning....

2012-01-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

I am swooning again, feels good to be back into the groove of this quilt. I would have to give all the credit to Katy for starting the swoon-along.

Each block I have been cutting and piecing separately. While wasting fabric on a few bad decisions, I am happy with how the flow is going now. Excitement has taken over, and I am enjoying all the inspiration from all the fellow swooners .

visit the flickr group here

Are you swooning yet? You should be.

It's official!

2012-01-13T08:36:00.000-08:00

I have the best hubby ever!

This line seriously kills me, I just love it. The bright sharp colors and the cute little prints. I am in heaven with this stack. My most awesome hubby bought this for my birthday (3 weeks early I might add). He sure knows how to make the wife happy. Now what to make with it? any suggestions?

Half moon Modern by Moda Fabrics

A little Weekend Sewing

2012-01-10T09:17:00.000-08:00

It's a new week full of sewing. I love this little vibe I have gotten into, most days it seems I get nothing done. The last few days have been quite fulfilling. The encouragement from my IG friends, flickr friends, and blog comments, have put me into motivated mode. Thank you all so much for the constant support in my creativity.

I pulled a few things together for the etsy shop, in lieu of Valentines Day, and I must say again; it feels good to be ahead of the game. Especially in the beginning of a new year.

I got the chance to pick play with some fabric combo's and make one of Jeni's cute little project bags for my crochet stuff.

These are quite fun to make.

It has also been a month or organizing, cleaning, and catching up on all those projects I didn't finish last year. Anyone else have a few they want to finish up?

I am looking forward to not only finishing them, but sharing them as well.

What have you been working on? Leave your blog link below, I would love to check it out.

Happy Sewing!

Rainbow Dash!

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Rainbow Dash is here.....

This week I started focusing on project that had already been started. Things that were so time consuming that it took more then one time for me to bring the project out, get back into the swing of it, and actually accomplish something. ( I am sure you can relate)

I told you all awhile back that I got this wild hair to take a google coloring page and recreate it into applique.

This was the coloring page......

My wonderful and talented friend Pam sat with me for 5 hours turning this coloring page into something we could make into an actual pattern. Then began cutting small freezer paper templates. There were 27 pieces for this simple pony.

The funniest part, was that she had just taught me the method weeks before and this was technically my first attempt to do it. (yeah she thought I was crazy too) But the company and the laughs made up for all the tedious work.

This week I picked up the project again, making the face and officially calling it a Rainbow Dash pony. Keeping with the rainbow theme, I pulled some bright Kona FQ's out and hexified the back. The beautiful rainbow binding I found on etsy, made this pillow the bees knees. At least my daughter thinks so, and that's what I was going for.

I scored in making my daughter think, and even say "Mom your the best"

It was all well worth it! Thanks Pam!

Happy Sewing~!

New Book Release!

2012-01-04T17:23:00.000-08:00

Check out this wonderful beauty. Don;t you just love the warm homey feeling the cover gives you) I was thrilled when John asked me to write a pattern for his newest book Pretty in Patchwork Holidays.

The artists in this book are pretty fantastic to, and I am in great company here for this one. Each artist has created such thoughtful and creative patchwork ideas, that will get those juices flowing for your next gift idea.

You can pick up this beauty in E-Book version now by clicking here

The hard copy will be available August 2012.

Thank you John and Lark Books for letting me be a part of this fantastic project.

Happy Sewing

All you need is LOVE!

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it! I am so on a roll for 2012! Ever since I saw the alphabet pattern that Kelly designed, I knew I had to make some wordy goodies. What better way then to kick off the new year with my very first mini quilt. That's right, my first one. I have made about 3 mug rugs in my day and larger quilts, but never a mini.

There was much excitement for me as I finished this entire quilt in one day. (Check out my inspiration from Kelly here. Not only that, but I pieced another entire quilt top after I was finished as well. (I will be sharing that one shortly.)

This quilt makes me feel like I will get way more accomplished this year, then ever before.

Paper pieced letters can be purchased here in Kelly's etsy shop

Fabric :: Kona solid scraps

Main Fabric Kona Snow

Binding :: Moda Crossweave in bright pink

Quilt measures approx. 20.5 x 17"

(sorry about the photo's, I hope to fix my camera settings soon)

What words would you make??

Happy Sewing!

2011 Recap

2011-12-31T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hey Guess what! I am still alive.

I took a brief pause from my blog to have a little time with my family this year. So many seasons go by with me feeling like such a workaholic, that I tend to forget the simple things in life.

Thank you to everyone who stuck around through my Christmas break.

I reflected today on everything that I have accomplished this year. Moving from Oregon to California, from an apartment to a house, starting a branch of the Modern Quilt Guild, learning to crochet, being published for the first time, sewing many more quilts this year then any other, and finally feeling like things are beginning to calm down so that I may enjoy every breath of it.

Here is a brief look back into 2011

I look forward to sharing the list of things already in the works with all of you.

1. More progress made tonight ..., 2. Custom order for a local. Hope you love it Kara, 3. Folded KHQ, 4. 10 down 2 to go!, 5. Last set of Halloween bucket bags for the year. These are my sisters :), 6. 065, 7. Finished my Christmas scarf, 8. Habitat Quilt Challenge front-, 9. Pooches and Pickups ~ The Perfect Play Mat, 10. Mug Rug Madness - Colorblock, 11. Flower Garden FMF quilt -Top, 12. UHG round 3 swap, 13. Tumbling Cubes

1. Published for the first Time, 2. Found this unique looking poinsettia at the grochery store and had to bring it home with me, 3. Playing with colorful buttons today, 4. What!! Did I just make this. Whooweee, 5. AMH Swooned, 6. Modern BOM, 7. PTS 4 , 8. custom kindle horn cover, 9. Fat Quarterly Quilt along 2010, 10. Sierra's Forest Quilt, 11. Inspired Zipper Pouch, 12. Sweetwater quilt top :: Finished, 13. Jane Market Bags

Cheers to 2012

HAPPY SEWING

Hey Hey Crochet!

2011-11-11T13:57:00.001-08:00

It seems I have yet to share my journey in the world of crochet.

Crochet is something I have wanted to learn for years and years. Never feeling like the opportunity really came about before, I was excited to see the crochet school link pop up in the blog world.

Here is my 5 week journey as tracked through the eyes of my Iphone and Ipad. (love those things) I hope it inspires you to want to learn as well. But be Careful, it's very addicting.

The smiles alone from my 3 year old when I made her a scarf to match her winter coat, was priceless.

Happy Crocheting!

Winner of International Quilt Scene Magazine

2011-11-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for the wonderful, and supportive comments. I am still making my way through the thank yous. The winner of the quilt scene package is number 34 SpunkyChildDesign. Please email me with your address to sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com to claim your prize.

If you did not win, but still would like to buy one; here is the link

http://www.interweavestore.com/Quilting/Magazines/International-Quilt-Fest-Quilt-Scene.html

Thank you again everyone, your truly an amazing support.

HAPPY SEWING

It's Here!

2011-11-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

Oh the waiting was killing me. I completely know now how everyone feels when they do a published project. You have to keep it quiet for so long, it seems like forever.

Here is my very first published article! Whoowee. Can I just do a little happy dance please.

The winter edition of Quilt Scene is such an awesome honor, but to be included with such amazing talent was the kicker for me.

I love sharing ideas for projects, and all of my crafty adventures. Mostly why I created my blog, to record and keep track, be inspired, and share. This magazine brings sharing for me to a whole new level. I want to first thank the people at Quilting Art Magazine and Interweave, for seeking me out to have this amazing opportunity. (feel a little like I am in a beauty pageant, here is my wave ~)

I am excited as well to see so many of the people who inspire me along the same pages. I think that is what I love the most.

Elizabeth Hartman (you go girl) She is one uber talented lady. Her Avalon Quilt is just gorgeous.

Or the Amazing talented Alissa Haight Carlton with such a great modern project . She is forever amazing me with her talent.

I am pretty grateful to just be included with all these amazing people! I am still just soaking in the fact that it's in my hands. Here was my little article ...

(Remember those?)

Alright enough with how excited I am, as you can probably tell this was the first time being published from start to finish. It's even more rewarding being amongst friends.

~GIVEAWAY~

I have an extra copy for one lucky winner. International commenter's welcome Just leave me a nice little comments here on this post and I will draw a winner on Saturday November 8th.

Thank you everyone for listening to my giddy nonsense.

HAPPY SEWING!!

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED

Fabric Goodess from Lesley Grainger

2011-10-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

I could hardly hold in the excitement when blogger, etsy shop owner, and fabric designer Lesley Grainger emailed me asking me to play with a sampling of her new fabric lines coming out with Robert Kaufman. I just had to share all this fabric goodness with you.

I am a sucker for kids novelty prints as everyone knows. My etsy shop is loaded with them. I always appreciate the steps that designers go through to produce such wonderful color appeal in their collections. Great for kids imaginations, and just all around fun.

Lesley's new line "Launch" is perfect for those kids quilts, pajamas, toys, bibs, and more. Launch is designed by Lesley Grainger for Robert Kaufman - 100% Cotton with a total of 6 prints due to hit stores in December 2011.

I am looking forward to sharing a special project and tutorial using this super fun line.

Lesley also has a little sneak peak to show everyone. Another line she designed called "Pretty Paisley" also for Robert Kaufman is due to hit shelves January 2011. This pretty 100% cotton flannel collection comes in two super lush colorways. I am dying to play with these. They almost look edible , right ?

Photographs by Speckled Stones Photography

Keep your eyes out for these hard to resist lines, and stay tuned for some wonderful project ideas on how to use them here on my blog.

What's your favorite?

Happy Sewing!

Habitat Challenge Quilt - Finished

2011-10-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to finally have this quilt finished.

After starting with a new idea of what I wanted three times, I finally decided that the paper piecing was what I wanted all along. Question is, was there enough time to complete it for our guild meeting.

Late nights and long hours paid off getting this finished just in time for our BMQG guild reveal yesterday.

Fabric challenge was to use the habitat fabric from free Spirit, Designed by Jay McCaroll. We were only to add solids to this project to in turn make the prints pop! It was really cool to see all the different interpretations of the same line of fabric.

I used a paper piecing technique (time consuming, but worth it) Broke up the blocks with lots of gray, and even after many crazy ideas of adding HST's and more detail. I ended up deciding that I liked simple best.

Quilt measures 46"x60"

Fabric - Habitat by Jay McCaroll

Robert Kaufman Kona solids in Med Gray, Petal, black, sage, pomegranate, Mint, and more (used lots of random scraps)

Quilting pattern was made with my domestic machine, by mimicking the already formed star in the centers and making a template to produce the same pattern along the borders.

Sophie has already claimed this one :)

Happy Sewing

Learning something new

2011-10-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

The lack of posts on my blog lately has been very hard to take. I promise though that it will all be worth it when I reveal a few things I have been working on.

Most recently (as in 5 days ago) I started learning to crochet. So far I am getting it down pretty easily, but much practice is needed to get there. I have wanted to learn this for years, as my mother crochets some pretty fantastic things as well.

Right now I have been practicing the stitches over and over, pulling out the piece and then starting again. Last night was the first time I decided I would try and make sophie a scarf. I'll let you know how it goes. Do you crochet? Any tips for me in getting started?

If you have ever wanted to learn crochet like me, take a peak over here at the craftyminx to start crochet school for yourself. It's pretty amazing all the work that has been put into this for everyone to learn for free. I think it's wonderful to have more then one crafty thing that you like to do, and sometimes it's even fun to intertwined crafts to make pretty awesome things. Stop by and take a peak

Happy Sewing & Crocheting!

P.S. If you have not yet picked up your fall special over at Fat Quarterly. My Halloween bucket bag pattern is now available there for you to make just in time for those trick or treaters. Enjoy!

Ahh Pinterest ....

2011-09-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

With inspiration like this all day long, do you all really expect me to sew? Ha! I went on the bandwagon, then got off after thinking I was spending to much time on pinterest. I am happy to now be a recovered pinner.

How about you?

Happy ~~Sewing!~~ Pinning!

What what!

2011-09-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it's been so long since I posted.

Oh where does the time go.

I have had the tremendous pleasure to be involved in some really great projects that I hope to share before you know it. Things are busy again, but in a not so stressful kind of way. I have enjoyed many new and fun projects anfter revamping my business plan in the shop. I am sure all you etsy sellers know what I mean when I say that somedays it get's a little out of hand.

I am also lucky enough to have some Super Quilters among our Bakersfield Modern Quilt group who have shared their talents in amazing ways. My good friend Pam (award winning quilter in applique) Showed us a demonstration among the guild on how to do starch method applique.

Of course you know me; I like making something new and exciting and taking it to the hardest possible level... yeah well I did it again. I called Pam and told her about this picture I found on Google for Sophie to color.

Pam was happy to help! She took me through the whole process on how to make this a pattern and turn it into fabric. I did not expect how much fun such a tedious project could be. We laughed, and joked around, and it was one of the most fun days I have had in awhile.

This fun little stitchery will be embroidered in some spots to fill out the pattern but I love how it's coming along. I might just be addicted to a new way of quilting . Thanks Pam

Happy Sewing

Swoooooooned~

2011-08-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Remember this stack of goodies??

I have officially made the first cut into this yummy stack of perfection!

I would like to say that this came out how I planned it to, but that is not the case. My plans for this started to unfold and well.... I hated it.

By changing out a few colors and prints, this is what came about. I have to thank my friend Nicci for the step by step walk through how this block should come out, she really was a lot of help in the deciding factor.

I pulled this out for our Modern Quilt Guild Sew-In only because all my other projects were not portable in the stage they were in. I am glad I sat down and played with this because now, I have been utterly SWOONED!

HAPPY SEWING!

One to Many?

2011-08-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

(New restock of some yummyness)

I must have been out of my creative head for a bit, because now I can't stop thinking of new things to make. I guess that is a good thing though. It's always refreshing to feel your creative mojo come back after a long break. This week has been amazing. I say that since it was guild week. These quilters definitely bring out the best in me and make me feel so overjoyed to have met them all.

If you have a Modern Quilting guild in your area, I would advise you to try it. It's my most favorite part of the month.

We showed off our habitat challenge progress!

(Photo is of Lynn's Project you can visit her blog at Creative Stitches by Lynn)

Then I pulled another stack of goodness for a new quilt that is for my sisters daughter. She wants Turquoise and pink. I seem to be slim on those color choices so this is still a work in progress as I decide what fabrics will be perfect for her.

I have also been swooned! Yes I picked it up last night at our local Quilt shop Strawberry Patches! Can't wait to take a stab at these HUGE blocks!

And then a little more progress on the Highlighter Quilt. Paper piecing has really been the hardest part of this Quilt along challenge but I am glad that I took the plunge cause I really learned a lot. Not to mention I will have a spectacular quilt in the end.

This is what I have been up to. One to many projects going on all at once, but it seems that is how I function just to feel normal. How about you? What are you working on?

HAPPY SEWING!

More sharing....

2011-07-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Just catching up around here but thought I would stop in to share some progress on a few things....

ENJOY!

This is the start of my Habitat challenge from the Modern Quilt Guild using only Habitat and solids. This was my first test block to see how I like the colors together (what do you think?)

This Block was made for the Twice Around the block Quilting bee on flickr. A scrappy snowball. I love the scrappy fabrics that She choose. This was my first time making snowballs.

Here are a few more blocks from the Summer Sampler series Quilt along, I ran out of fabric so I am a bit behind after doing the paper pieced ones. Thank Goodness for Kathy at Pink Chalk Fabrics who restocked and I could get more.

I am enjoying my creative process again as you can tell. Taking a little break from the etsy shop and learning a few new things along the way. I hope you enjoy the things I share as much as I enjoy making them all.

Have a great weekend everyone!

HAPPY SEWING

Show n Tell

2011-07-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Things have gotten busy around here again, but I had to show off a few blocks that have been accomplished lately. I am excited to have a very large break from responsibility soon and have much more time for my own crafting. I am sure everyone can relate :)

The top block is a BOM (block of the month) over at Sew Mama Sew. This is head up by Alissa Haight Carlton one of the founders of the Modern Quilt Guild sensation. You gotta jump into this one ! The second is the Summer series Sampler Quilt Along. You can view every ones yummy goodness in the flickr pool.

I also pulled another Quilt. This will be done in a pattern called Chatterbox from a book by Boo Davis called Hip to be Square.

My blogger is down again and cannot comment on blogs, but to my dear friends you all know who you are. I am seeing all those beautiful projects and hope to be able to go back to them and tell you soon. I am seriously considering leaving blogger. Can I do that? Without loosing my blog? Does anyone know? uggg!

Happy Sewing!

SSSQA Block # 1 Star Of Virginia

2011-07-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

Little did I know after being sucked in to this AWESOME summer quilt along that it would become "one of those things" I could experience with Sophie. I am usually not one to have enough time to start anything on the actual day it starts; so that was an accomplishment on it's own.

Sophia was a little rambuncious yesterday. Almost nothing would stop her from bouncing off the walls. At about 7pm I finally had enough and remembered this quilt along block that I had not yet begun. I pulled everything out and began the "quilting process" to see if that would help. She really loves the design part of quilting already at 3.

We pulled out the colored pencils, and matched them to the highlighter style fabrics we had chosen for the quilt. Sophie watched as I drew up the block, and let her place in the colors on paper anywhere she wanted..

We set up our cutting station, and began cutting the pieces according to the directions of the block.

After each piece was cut, Sophie would place the piece on the design wall to make it look just like the picture we colored on paper.

I think she did a pretty good job! Little did I know that this project would turn out this way, but I am sure glad it did. Anything to get her involved in quilting makes me SEW happy. And I see that she to enjoys it very much.

We are very excited for the next block of this quilt along.

Stop by flickr and see all the cool blocks that have been made so far.

HAPPY SEWING!

Summer Sampler Series Quilt Along

2011-07-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

I just got these fresh Yummy treat in the mail from the solids of the month club over at Pink Chalk. The collection of Free Spirit solids instantly made me think of cocktails, sunshine, and all things summer. She even called the collection Cabana! Of course I am also loving the Pat Bravo solids as well.... oh decisions!

So needless to say today it was given a project just minutes from my mailbox.

I am going to be making this beauty

By joining this Quilt along.

I will add a few darker prints I think ...Maybe but doesn't it just scream summer!

You can join to GO HERE for details.

Faith Has put together a yummy summer surprise for you all starting Monday!

Come quilt along with us.

Happy Sewing!

Kona Hourglass Quilt

2011-07-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

The Kona Hourglass Quilt

Made with the go baby 4" HST die a 4" block 2.5 inch binding.

All HST pieces are from kona scraps saved from various projects. Outer white is Kona Snow.

Quilt measures approx 50" x 57" Almost bed size for Sophie :)

Started cutting and piecing June 28th 20011 - Finished July3rd 2011

Quite the overload on photo's this time, we either have to much sun or not enough. This is my favorite quilt I have made so far!

Ready to start a new one already.

Thank you for all the encouragement in the process of this quilt, it really felt cool to hear what everyone thought about this wild adventure. The last minute binding strip from Windham Fabrics is the best touch and I almost didn't add it on for fear of it being to crazy. I think it was the finishing touch!

Happy Sewing!

When life gives you scraps....... Make Quilts!

2011-06-30T06:52:00.000-07:00

I am a nut for scraps! Not just any scraps, but specifically Kona scraps. I tend to give away or auction off my printed scraps on facebook. But I hoard my Kona like no body's business!

As the bucket began to grow, I knew I needed to start using some soon, or I would get overloaded with all this color goodness and it would cause me to loose focus! (Seriously) :)

With a little pump of my Go! baby Fabric cutter, and some kona scraps I went to work! Cutting lots, wasting little. Honestly this was my first quilt made completely with my Go! Baby fabric cutter machine.

Minutes after starting I was done (no joke, you would think I have stock in them the way I say that huh )

Beautiful squared up 4" half square triangles done in no time at all.

I should probably explain that HST's were my nemesis! I hate matching points and getting so perfect with my quilting. That life is now behind me! After piecing my first HST quilt, I am in love. FOREVER!

They are not that bad, they are loaded with perfection but so worth it!

I used a free pattern from accuquilt found here

Kona Hourglass Quilt

HAPPY SEWING MY FRIENDS!

Zip clip it.. and done!

2011-06-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Calling all Quilters... Have you seen this yet?

I have officially tossed my binding clip barettes and traded them in for this new zip it gadget that I was introduced to at our Modern Quilt Guild meeting. We hold our meetings at this most fabulous shop called "Strawberry Patches". Insane ammounts of fabric, floor to ceiling, no joke!

This fancy smancy gadget is call the Zip Clip. The metal clasps load into the back of the gadget, and clamp onto the quilt (very strongly I might add. As you sew, simply remove the clamp and reload it into the back of the zip it clip for another area.

The coolest part about this is even though I hand sew my binding, it helped me keep it even and straight without second guessing every move.

This is about 10 bucks I got mine here Strawberry Patch you can probly call her and she'll ship you one (she is cool like that :)

Happy Sewing!

Drumroll please........... Go! Baby Winner!

2011-06-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for coming along with me on the crazy ride with AccuQuilt. I am very pleased with the customer support, the machine, the free patterns, I love it all!!!

If you didn't win this time don't be blue, they have the biggest sale of the year going on right now and you can hear all about it by signing up on their mailing list for secret sales and a coupon off your next purchase.

Use this link to sign up and get 22 free quilt patterns on top of all that other yummy goodness!

Without Futher ado (removing all extra entries there was only 2 allowed)

The winner recieves a sweet package from accuquilt including a Go! Baby fabric cutter and 3 dies of their choice. Along with a giant scrap package from Hawthorne Threads.

The winner is Katheleen!

Kathleen said...

I would love the Hexagon, 2", 3", 5", the Half Square 4", and the 3-1/2 drunkard's Path...thanks for the giveaway...

Katheleen email me at sewfantasticblog@yahoo .com to claim your prize!!

Thank you AccuQuilt and Hawthorne Threads!

Now grab those free quilt patterns and...

Happy Sewing!

A Special gift From AccuQuilt

2011-06-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

AccuQuilt sent me another little gift for you all. Even if you do not win this AWESOME go! Baby Fabric cutter. You can click the button below to sign up and get 22 FREE quilt patterns.

Along with updates on specials and secret stuff :)

You can be part of the in crowd to, just click the button and follow the prompt for 22 FREE quilt patterns.

Winner of the Go Baby Fabric cutter will be announced tomorrow. If you still want to enter this link is only for the free quilt patterns. Look at the post before this to enter the giveaway.

Happy Sewing!

AccuQuilt Go! Baby Giveaway

2011-06-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

Seriously... You will want to grab that cup of Coffee now, or something to wet your whistle before reading this. You my friends are in for a serious treat!

If you were happily sewing one day, cutting out quilts, piecing, or even ripping seams. How would you react to the sweet ring of your doorbell, and the UPS worker holding a package like this with your name on it?

Me..... I freaked out! So excited, opened the box to all this quilt cutting goodness.

The AWESOME People over at AccuQuilt sent me there new Go! Baby Fabric cutting machine. Lightweight, compact, super efficient... I have never been more excited to cut charm squares and HST triangles, and doing 50 or more with accuracy, and safety in just minutes; is the best time saver ever.

I am sure I don't have to sell you on how awesome this package is.

The best news is that the people at AccuQuilt want you to have one as well. ( I can hear the giddy excitement already)

So on to the really good stuff, RIGHT ???

Here is your chance to get the same package.

A Go! Baby Fabric Cutter

3 Cutting dies for the Go! Baby (in your choices)

2 Go! Baby cutting mats

All in one big box shipped to you door, delivering the same excitement I had.

That is cool right?

And if that wasn't good enough, my friends over at Hawthorne Threads are throwing in some scrap packs as well. These scrap packs are the best out there. Large cuts of designer prints, in color pallets you'll Go! Crazy for. The perfect combination to make your Go! Baby fabric cutter, ready to use.

Ready to see how you can win this great package???? (saying this in my best game show host voice)

This is where your coffee comes in, there is a little tiny bit of work involved to get this sweet package. Just pretend your in a quiet little office with your cup of Joe and do this....

Leave me a comment here on this post.

I want to know what 3 Go! Baby fabric cutting dies you will choose.

Stop by the AccuQuilt website and look at the variety of cutting goodness they have for the Go! Baby fabric cutter

come back here and tell me what 3 dies you would like to see on your doorstep.
(this is your main entry)

For a second chance to win this AWESOME package of goodness.
(this entry will only count if you followed the first request)

Head on over to facebook

Hit the like button on the AccuQuilt facebook page to follow them.

And then go to Hawthorne Threads facebook page, hit the like button and follow them as well.

You need to follow both for this entry to count. ( no need to comment on either facebook page, just hit the like button.))

Then stop back to this post and leave a second comment telling me you did this.

Not to bad right??

so Go!

Go!

Go! Now!

Go! Baby Go!

( I seriously should do an infomercial :)

Good Luck

Small Print :: This Giveaway is open to the US only, Contest ends Sunday June 26and a winner will be announced Monday June 27. The winner will receive the AccuQuilt Go! Baby fabric cutter, 3 dies of there choice, 2 cutting mats, and a huge package of scraps from Hawthorne Threads.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED WINNER PICKED TOMORROW.

Surprise ....

2011-06-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

I have been eagerly working on something.......

It could be good for you, or you, or you, or all of you.......

Can you guess what it might be?

Maybe it involves a quilt? Or a giveaway? I am having the hardest time keeping it in,

Gotta guess?? Stop back on Wednesday for the Good Stuff!

In the meantime stop by

Click the photo for Sue's Birthday Sale. Kona is only 4.99 a yard OH MY!!! Use code

BIRTHDAY2011 for 14% off :)

Enjoy!

Happy Sewing!

Just Wing it :: Patchwork Quilt

2011-06-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

Remember this little Gem that me and Sophie started here.

Fortunately for me no work is allowed at guild Sew-Ins just the fun stuff, so I decided it was time to finish up the Just wing it quilt.

Sophie loves it, I love it, and it was a great accomplishment in my little world of business. It's always nice to do a little sewing that is not on a schedule isn't it. It's been awhile since I finished a quilt down to the last stitch, and I must tell you even a simple quilt like this felt pretty darn good.

And the look on Sophie's face was priceless as well.

Specs::

Fabric Collection: Just Wing It by Moda (2 - 5" charm packs)

Robert Kaufman Kona Solids (backing is Kona Aloe

Started Monday May 9th 2011

Finished Sat June 11 2011

Back was actually put together on my design wall by 3 year old Sophia and pieced my momma (me)

Measures 33" x 41"

HAPPY SEWING!

Goodbye my friend

2011-06-07T00:53:00.000-07:00

I have always been saddened by tragedy in the world. Always affected a little by the things that happen to people in some way, and always wanting to make a difference or help in some way. Today is a quick pull back to realize that it can happen to someone I know, someone close or nearby.

I guess I just feel like everyone I know is indestructible in some way. They all just roll with the punches, and figure it out for a great outcome. I have always been the one that says I never really lost anyone that close to me. Until now.......

I lost a great friend today. Although life took us on different paths and we did not really talk that much recently, we have a very enormous past. Stories from when we worked in Mortgage together, How he helped me find my first apartment after a bad breakup. I can't even imagine how hard life would have been at that time without his support. He went on to do great things, things that make me so proud to call him my friend, things that will leave a mark on more then just me.

Dave, I miss you already! I wish now that I would have taken the time to stay in touch. Knowing all the things that you have had to endure since our last meeting makes me ill. I am sorry that I wasn't there for you when you were so sick. I wish I would have just known, so that I could reach out. I just wish that you were still here.

It hurts to loose a friend, I can't even describe the pain. Dave as I fight back the tears thinking of all the things I did wrong I hope that you forgive me for not being there when you needed me the most. Life is never to busy, bills are never to much, time is never to little to tell a friend how much you care. It makes me more sad that he had to endure so much without me. Cancer is not fun, it's very serious, and can take anyone at any time. Dave I will make this up to you somehow. I will fight the fight that you left, I will help people understand, I promise. You have my word! I will never take anything for granted again, in your honor. You still live in my heart always.

Quilting with Sophie ~ episode 1

2011-05-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day. Wishing our troops a safe trip home
and big thank you's to those who serve or have served.

I'm Back!

2011-05-29T14:04:00.000-07:00

Here is me with my new hair !!

Sorry about the lack of posts lately. Blogger had some glitch that wouldn't let me log in to use my blog or even comment on other blogs. I am putting together some pretty fantastic stuff around here and cannot wait to share. Missing you all dearly :)

Anyone else get locked out of blogger??

Skinny Girl + Irons = Fun

2011-05-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

There is noting better then a few girlfriends and a bottle of skinny girl Margaritas to make a Tuesday night so much fun. Over the weekend my etsy shop swarmed with hundreds of orders. The ladies came over to iron all my interfacing to product and give me a good head start on everything.

Although we did get tons of work done, we also posed for funny pictures and had lots of laughs.

Thank you friends for one fun night! It almost felt like our younger days :D

Lynn and Nicci, you are truly the best! Way to mix margaritas and rotary cutters .

(today I have an appointment for a major new haircut and look, wish me luck)

Happy Sewing!

Back to Crafting

2011-05-10T00:08:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it seems as though I let things get the best of me or maybe I just make to many commitments. However the best part about catching up, is starting something for no real reason at all but to just have a little fun.

I pulled out some charm packs the other day and asked little Sophie to pick one that she wanted to see in a quilt. Of course she picked the butterflies from the Just wing it collection by Moda.

We mixed two charm pack with a few scrap pieces of Kona, and did a simple patchwork quilt. It's not very often that I make a quilt like this anymore but this was a fun project for sophie to help with. It really has been fun doing these much simpler quilts and having her join in. Maybe someday she will be a quilter to.

It turned out so fun, and she loves it.

I ended up piecing the back a little with a few leftover pieces, but came up a little short so I will have to make a quick trip tomorrow and get it finished so that we can quilt it.

I am excited to share Sophie's little beauty after it gets quilted.

While out the other day I picked up these to. They are titanium quilting needles. Made to endure the heat from quilting better. I have heard good things about them so I thought I would give them a try.

Has anyone tried them yet?

It has been quite the busy week here at our house, but we are happy to have had much family time, a finished quilt or two, and a brand new 3 year old. (Check out that cookie cake )

HAPPY SEWING!

{Bittersweet }

2011-05-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

Being a mother is surely the best gift ever. This year is so bittersweet to me, as me and my daughter Sophia get to share the day. Happy birthday my sweet sweet girl. You are the best gift I have ever been given and I love watching you grow up.

Here is to many more years of playing, laughing, sewing, and just being together.

Happy Mothers day, and Happy 3rd birthday all in one fun filled day. Thank you for being my daughter, and for choosing me to be your Mommy.

Happy Mothers Day everyone!

Bravo! Our Military Bravo!

2011-05-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

Although this is BIG news already I have to put in a bit of two sense here.

I am not of military in any way, nor do I have family over their serving. But I do have friends of the sort who deal with that hurt every day. As well as family who has served in the past. To me it's unimaginable that someone could let their loved ones serve in the military, go to war, and be away from home most of their service lives.

After coming to terms with how and why, I began to see the honor and accomplishment that comes from those same people. They are proud, and supportive, strong, and brave all in the same package.

I could not do it, I am not that brave or strong, so I respect those people in every way imaginable.

I guess I just want to say thank you to all of our servicemen, and servicewomen. Those people who fight everyday, who spend years aways from their loved ones and family, friends and children. Today was a huge accomplishment for the people, and I hate that this comes to you on such a day when it should be acknowledged everyday. Thank you! Thank you thank you, for everything you do. You are Brave everyday even if we don't tell you. You are thought of everyday and every hour even if we don't mention it. We do know that because of you, and because your family allows you to serve that we are free, Free to speak our mind, free to be who we feel we are, and free to to LIVE everyday without being completely scared of the outcome.

Thank you to all who serve!

Thank you to the families who allow them to serve and deal with the pain of having them so far away.

Thank you to the world for supporting our troops, and everything that they believe in!

Thank you !

Pooches and Pickups Winner

2011-04-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

A Big thank you to Laurie for giving us all a sneak peak into her newest creation for Robert Kaufman.

I can definitely see many people creating some pretty cool stuff using this new fabric.

Keep your eye out it hits store shelves at the end of the month.

We has 186 entries......

Here is your winner

Nana B said...

Love Love Love the new line. I wanted to order it today but I see that it is not available until the end of the month. I want to make a shadow quilt (pattern by Leah at DayStyle Designs) with it for our summer visitors who bring their two black labs to visit

April 20, 2011 10:48 AM

Congrats Nana B Send me your info to sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com to claim your prize.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Pooches and Pickups {Giveaway}

2011-04-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

Look what I got to cut into this week! Laurie was kind enough to send over her new Fabric line Pooches and Pickups. this line will be debuting at the end of the month with Robert Kaufman. If you liked Urban Circus, and Tufted Tweets, you will fall in love With Pooches and Pickups.

The package arrived, and my little Sophie's heart skipped a beat. I am so serious when I tell you she went crazy! At almost 3 she is crazy about puppies, I mean crazy! Of course she claimed it and then proceeded to tell me what I should make with it (or what she wanted made with it)

One of my quilts right now she uses as a yoga mat to do her kid exercise videos. This will now replace my quilt. :D

This is our first quilt that was made together, she asked for me to cut out circles, even where in the fabric to cut them, and how she wanted it to look. Yea I am so not lying. This coming from a almost 3 year old who is playing with my design wall on a daily basis.

This is what we made.

The perfect play mat!

I will add some Kona coal for the binding and this will be something fun for her to have around the house and admire all the puppies in their pickups.

Thank you Laurie the bonding time with her was Fantastic! Your new line is definitely a must have!

Laurie was so sweet that she sent and extra FQ set just for one of you lucky viewers.

Would you like a stack of 6 new Perfectly poochie fabrics. I knew you would.

Leave a comment and tell me what you think about it, what you would make. Just anything that this adorable new line makes you feel. I will choose a winner on Saturday 4/23

You can stop by and see the wonderfully creative world of Miss Laurie Wisbrun here on her blog.

Thank you Laurie we had a blast playing with the pooches and pickups.

Happy Sewing

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED

Fitting In.....

2011-04-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

I do not have pictures for this post, nor do I have links to send you off to faraway blogs that I know will inspire you creatively. But since this is my creative outlet, as well as my means for you to all know what makes me tick, I feel it's ok to share here.

I shared eight months ago about how we were moving to Bakersfield California, from Portland/Vancouver area. The journey has been tough, as only one could expect. Coming to a new place to make new friends, and basically just find the exact place where you belong. Starting over so to speak.

Although I have had many activities that I have pursued here, people I have met and have much in common with. It always seemed like there was still that little something that was missing. I always tell my husband that it feels like we have been on vacation all this time, and it's just now starting to sink in. I was very blessed to know some pretty wonderful people in Portland. People who not only encouraged me to express my creativity, but that I could also count on no matter what. It's quite different now not knowing people as well. I can still count on those same people to be there, only it's miles away through a phone call. The difference now between a quite voice on the other end, and a hug make all the difference in a situation like this.

I guess that I just wanted to share this because through this new Modern Quilt Guild that I have started here, it has grown to a group of gals that I not only trust to be there for me in much of those same aspects, but I really think and feel that they are people I was meant to meet. They are encouraging, thankful, humble, and inspiring all at the same time. I feel very blessed right now to have this feeling like I have my new space in this new life.

I want to encourage everyone who has had to move, or maybe give a up group of friends for whatever reason. People who maybe just feel like they don't quite fit in. There is a place for you as there is for all of us. A good friend told me today that blessings come in strides. Although god may not be on the same schedule as you, he is there watching, and has that perfect place where you belong. that place where you will feel accepted, and complete.

We are all different in so many ways, but yet still very much the same.

Happy Sewing my friends.

Sunday Stash #38 {kaffe}

2011-04-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

These lovelies were picked up right after our BMQG Guild meeting yesterday. We were all so blown away by the new color palette by Kaffe Fasset that our local Shop "Strawberry Patches" got in.

Although these prints are saturated with color, I think I picked out a good palette and matched them up with a few Kona's from the shop as well. I will add a few from my stash and hopefully make a great quilt with these. Any Ideas? Still need the perfect pattern to showcase these beauties. What do you see them becoming?

Happy Sewing

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Sewing!

Sunday Stash :: #37 {AMH Bohemian }

2011-04-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

Ok I admit it, I am a fabric hoarder ;) Those very precious collections that I just know are destined for quilty greatness get put away until I can find the perfect design for them. This stack has been acquired over the years through friends. Thank you Sarah, Violet, and Jen, you are the bestest. This collection is called Bohemian by Anna Marie Horner, and ranks in my top 5 favorite collections. Unfortunately it's out of print and almost rarely crosses my path in shops now.

So picture these goodies mixed with some lush solids.. I picture circles too (maybe) . Raw edge applique or pieced. What do you think??

Happy Quilting

Studio Tour

2011-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

As being someone who gets sucked into the inspiration of others, whether it be blogs, or flickr, quilts, or studio's. I am constantly finding a new idea for something in my creative world.

I wanted to take a minute and get a little personal with you all by showing off a project I have been working on. It's not by any means glamorous but I hope that maybe it gives you some ideas for your own space. Your creative space does not have to be fancy, expensive, or even matchy matchy. It can be anything that makes you feel comfortable and creative.

I have been extremely blessed to have moved over the last 6 months from a shared kitchen table, to a new beautiful room that I can call my own and decorate any way I want.

When I decided on what I wanted, my priorities were mostly organization, and simply clean. Everything has a spot, fabrics are sorted to keep separately my shop fabrics and my personal stash. I love to display when I can and enclose at times to.

This room still needs a lot of work as I track down that perfect piece to replace whatever it is I already had, and I am still using in the room. but I can say that I feel creative here everyday.

Take a peak into my creative world in the Studio of Sew-Fantastic!

(above) This part is a little under construction. I am looking for perfect white modern chairs to put here and some crafty projects to add to my newly painted gray walls.

(below) Kona is most definitely my favorite so of course it has been showcased so that I can see if every day. The shelf actually goes higher to view my large yardage pieces. The smaller pieces are kept in the simple Martha Stewart Divider cube from Home Depot (50.00) Great price for a simple clean look.

(below) Under the window is these great little ottomans I found at Traget (20.00 each) In tons of colors. The tops come of to use them for storage. I keep my vintage things and japanese goodies in there. When Sophie somes in to visit me this is where she sits and tells me about her day.

My closets are the same ... very organized. I find it easier to know where things are most of the time, so that I can find it on a dime. Things are labeled and separated very well. Plastic storage is very inexpensive to and you can always put your special touch on it if you want.

Although my hubby bought it for me a few years ago, he still thinks it's funny that I actually have luggage just for my sewing machine and projects, :)

As you can see my walls are still bare,they have just recently been painted a lush gray. I am hoping to get some wall quilts up soon. There are a few boxes of fabric still to be shelved and a great notions board that my hubby is putting together as I write this. I can't wait to show you a video tour when I am done.

I am a fiend for Law and order, CSI, Bones and of course GLEE! So the TV is a staple in this room

My scraps are showcased in individual containers. If you have the room for this I highly suggest you try it. Before my scraps sat in a bucket, never being touched. Now I actually use them, as they are sorted by color. Making it easy to grab something for a project.

All of my shopp fabric is storage indoors in this cabinet that was given to use by my mother in law.

This is my workhorse, Claire! She is strictly my shop machine and she treats me good. The other machine only comes out when I do a little personal sewing.

The double design wall is also nice to keep projects up. I like to move things around a lot while they hang there until they are pieced into a quilt top.

Below is my cutting table. when not in use it folds up but I love having it right in the middle of the room where everything else is accessible.

Thank you for taking a little tour with me, and like I promised before that when it's done I will do a video tour for you all. It really is easy to get a great functional studio on a budget. I did it and SEW can you.

Happy Sewing my friends.

Wordless Wednesday......

2011-04-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

HIPPITY HOPPITY EASTER is on it's WAY!

Happy Sewing

GO! -ing Crazy

2011-04-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

Crazy in love that is..... A new toy has landed in the Sew-Fantastic studio. I apologize for being gone so long but I promise you will understand why. Among just plain being busy with business and life in general, I have received a new toy that I cannot put down. ( Thank you Accuquilt) I have been cutting my scraps up preparing for new quilts and it almost takes me no time at all. I am excited to share this amazing product with you.

Wanna know what it is???? I bet you do...... Wanna know how you can get one to??? Do you really really really want one??

What would you do with this Fabulous machine that cuts quilt kits in a flash? I think everyone needs one of these Accuquilt GO! Baby machines in their lives.

I want to give you one of your very own. Stay tuned here at Sew-Fantastic, cause something BIG is coming.. I better GO! play a bit more for now

In the meantime you can try your chance at a $1000.00 gift certificate to Accuquilt Go! by clicking This button!

HAPPY SEWING!

Mug Rug Tutorial :: Scrappy COLORBLOCK

2011-03-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Mug Rug Madness Day 9 ~ A huge thank you to Erin for inviting me to be a part of this fun bloggy get together. I have created something very special just for you mug rug fanatics out there. I hope you enjoy making them ( I might have gone a little overboard with pictures, but I hope that you can see each step clearly and you will surely make one just as cool)

Mug Rug Tutorial :: Scrappy Colorblock

This is a great project to use scraps with. I have now made two of them and have only used my scraps to piece the entire top. So pull out your scrap buckets and let's get started.

You will need::

Rotary cutter

Self Healing mat

Ruler

9 scrap pieces in your favorite rainbow colors

FQ of a neutral solid fabric ( I used Kona Snow)

Please use .25 inch (quarter inch) seams

From each of your 9 color scraps cut 1 piece each measuring 1.5" x 1.5 " Square and 1.5" x 3: Rectangle

You will have nine stacks that look like the picture below.

From your solid neutral fabric cut

9 pieces measuring 1.5" x 2"

18 Pieces measuring 1.5" x 4"

2 pieces measuring 1.5" x 11.5

To sew your first piece, take your colored 1.5" x 1.5" pieces and sew them to the neutral 1.5" x 2" pieces using a quarter inch seam

see the photo below for example.

The pieces you just made now measure 1.5" x 3" take these and sew them to the remaining color pieces that measure 1.5" x 3"

See the photo below

When finished you will have 9 pieces that look like the above photo. Sew your 1.5" x 4" pieces to the tops, and bottoms of these strips to look like the photo below. Still using a quarter inch seam.

After your strips are sewn, line your strips up to checker board the smaller blocks in the strips. The only points that you need to match up are those small 1.5"x1.5" blocks, everything else will fall into place.

Pin the meeting joints if needed before sewing them together. Then sew a quarter inch seam along the entire strip joining the two strips together.

Keep joining each strip in the order you have chosen until you get

something that looks like the photo below.

Your last two pieces are 1.5" x 11.5"

These are sewn to the left side and the right side of your strip picture to finish the mini quilt top.

This is a detail of the graph I have just explained. hopefully

this makes sense where each piece should go. (To see this more clearly please click on the photo to enlarge it at any time)

Now that you have everything pieced, square up (or rectangle up) :) your block. This can be any size within the parameters. I squared mine up to 9" tall and 11.5" wide.

After you have squared up your block. Sandwich it with batting and backing to make a mini quilt.

Pinn everything into place and quilt the mini block in what ever pattern you desire. I personally think the straight line quilting looks best but of course I had to practice a little stippling to. ( I really need the practice)

Square up the sandwich , sew on your binding, and stitch the back of the binding to your quilt. I prefer to do this by hand, but your machine will work as well.

The finished product will be this GORGEOUS piece of art!

I hope this is clear, and that everyone enjoys making these perfect little mini quilts.

Don't forget to upload your scrappy colorblock mug rugs to the flickr pool HERE

and stop by Erin's blog post HERE to sign up an win one of the 10 FANTASTIC mug rugs that were shown this week.

Happy Sewing

Wordless Wednesday .....

2011-03-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

What a productive week I think :)

Happy Sewing!

Mug Rug Madness

2011-03-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

What is a Mug rug you ask??

That cute little thing that catches your crumbs, or holds your most favorite cup of something while you complete your daily dose of catch up on the blog roll.

Erin @ twomoreseconds is hosting Mug rug madness week, and it starts this Monday. Have fun visiting all the links to free tutorials on mug rugs for 10 whole delicious days.

Here at Sew-Fantastic you will see our tutorial post on March 29th

Have fun, and don't forget the coffee.

Photo credit Afriend2

Photo Credit Fashioned By Meg

Happy Sewing!

Wordless Wednesday.....

2011-03-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Sewing My Friends!

{ Sunday Stash #27 } Prints Charming

2011-03-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Good things come to those who clean (their studio). Although the studio is a mess, it's been fun finding old collections that I have hoarded and tucked away. This line is probably one of my favorites for kids. I will eventually make a quilt from some, but who knows when right.

Maybe I will just stack them up and sit them high on a shelf to stare at while I sew. (yeah I like that idea)

I have been sharing pics on twitter of the grueling process I have been in the last few days. I am glad to say that everything paid off. My studio has a fresh new coat of paint now and she is looking FAB!!

The new color pallet for the studio is still pretty rough and I think that shades and tones might go awry here and there but the main idea will stay the same. Gorgeous gray walls with accents in accessories done in Yellows and aqua's. What do you think? Spring is here you know :)

For now I will start getting through this mess! Putting things back in there very own place.

I can't believe I will have a place for each little notion, and piece of heavenly cloth.

Happy Sewing!

{UHG swap} Utility Apron

2011-03-07T18:27:00.000-08:00

I am forever crossing my fingers when it comes to swaps on flickr. Although I love them so much, I always feel like I put my own style in the mix to much. So far, no complaints in items that are received, so that's the good news.

My partner this round was hard for me to read honestly, plus I procrastinated in finding out information that could be pertinent to the swap and then just decided to wing it. I have wanted to do something with improv lately. It's ones of those things that you just get in the mood for. I decided to make the utility apron from issue four of Fat quarterly. Nova's directions were wonderfully open to fit in your own style but still be guided along.

My partner will receive two items, this is the first. What do you think?

Cute little pincushion that is removable.

Scissor holder and patchwork pockets

Improv Utility Apron

Pattern by Nova Flitter

Published in issue 4 of Fat Quarterly

Fabrics used::

Echino

RK Quilters linen

RK essex linen
RK Quilters tweed

Some rick rak, buttons, ink stamping, selvages, and some hand stitching .....viola..

Echino goodness

Happy Sewing My Friends

{ New Blog } and a Destash!

2011-03-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

Slowly but surely I am getting these piles of fabric listed in the destash shop to make roon in the new space. There are many pieces and bundles to list and I will be doing so over today and tomorrow. We are getting ready to paint my studio finally and I am almost caught up in the handmade shop, in hopes to reopen shortly. This is just a quick post to let everyone know that I am destashing. You can find the link by clicking here and if your a blog reader use the code IREADSF for a little discount. (cause I love you all) *wink*

On another note, my fabulous designer made new graphics for the blog.... What do you think. Clean, Fresh, simple, elegant, all of the above *smile* .. I hope that this makes it easier to read without so much boxi-ness and distraction. After all I do love my readers so much. What do you think about it ??

Happy Sewing!

Tumbling Cubes - Modern Basics

2011-02-28T09:20:00.000-08:00

I was completely overjoyed when I opened the pages of Amy's new book "Modern Basics". The book includes gorgeous quilts, and wonderfully written patterns.

I started this quilt at our guild sew in on Saturday, then finished the top on Sunday afternoon. I was please to see it come together so quickly, as well as have such a remarkable result. The only thing I did differently from the pattern was to add a 4 inch sashing to the top and the bottom for extra length.

This quilt pattern is called Tumbling Cubes; one of my favorites in the book. It measures approx 60x67 and it will be gifted to my brother who is autistic. He has not had a quilt made by me in 10 years and I think the little kitty cats on his first quilt do not quite fit an 18 year old boy.

I know he will love it, he loves everything I make.

Fabric Used

Robert Kaufman's Kona in

Ash Gray. Orange, and Navy

Amy is having a bloggy book tour right now and you can win a copy of her book.

Stop by her blog to try and win a copy of "Modern Basics" Easy Quilting to fit your budget, space, and style.

Happy Sewing My Friends!

{Scrappy Storage} On a Budget

2011-02-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

If your like me, scraps usually pile up quickly and get thrown in a bucket like this. This bucket fills mostly from shop stuff but there are always those few that I would just love to be able to find on a whim while making a quilt. I think that if I just organize myself even with something as small as scraps, then my quilting productivity as well as my stash will go further.

This is what I have done...... I bought these small shoebox like plastic containers for .97 cents each at our local Target. Each one is designated a color for easy accessibility later on when looking for a certain piece. I keep everything in them that I think I will actually use, no matter how small. Every usuable peiece under a FQ goes in these and are considered scraps or remnants to me.

It may not seem like much, but making this small change has made my scraps more functionable. Plus I am saving money by using what I have..

Another idea from Target as well are these cute metal bowls found in a few different colors for 2.50 each add a nice pop of style to your fabric cubby if you don't want a large space dedicated just to scraps.

I have decided to put all of these posts under a new tab on top of the blog for everyone to reference later. There will be a few posts just this week on organization, as well as some pretty sweet ways to use up those scraps .

KEEP CALM AND ORGANIZE!!

How do you store your scraps?

{ Blessed } That's an understatement

2011-02-18T21:08:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is a new journey for me. After leaving my friends and family in the Vancouver/Portland area, I felt like a small collapse in my life. The first few months were hard to get by, missing my friends on a daily basis and wishing if I could only just attend a single guild meeting, I would be good for a moment.

Although I still miss my beloved friends, that moment has surpassed me; just now! This moment, as I think about all the things I have accomplished just since being here in Bakersfield. The new found respect I have for people as well as myself for that matter.

Tomorrow starts a new chapter, our first official guild meeting! We have met the locals, held a meet and greet and after much hard work, and the help of our local quilt shops, as well as a few online friends like Meg and Jen. We have done it! My email is exploding with people here in Bakersfield excited about our group, excited about meeting us, and excited about modern quilting. Some emails that were received tonight just by some locals that I have never met, have brought me to tears (with Joy of course) It's truly is amazing how quilting can bring a community together. I am so proud to be a part of this, and I think God brought me here for a reason. Some days I may not understand that reason, but I know it was well thought out before I got here.

Happy Sewing My Friends

Sunday Stash Report :: Notebook paper Please

2011-02-13T11:13:00.000-08:00

I saw this on flickr ..... from the talented Claire Baker seen here

The embroidery is so clever, but the fabric background choice to me was top notch. I have had a craving for these fabrics that look sort of like paper. This piece was machine stitched to get the notebook look, but you can buy some to. The perfect addition to any fun piece of embroidery.

The Girl Friday line had a fancy graph paper with lines that I loved so much and still cannot bring myself to cut into. Then I also stumbled upon some paper like fabric at Pink Chalk. Thanks to another flickr friend I was led to Kathy at Pink chalk for some Basic Grey Basics by Moda Fabrics.

And now I have 4 lovely prints that I love to look at, and oogle over.

I love her online shop because it's full of things that inspire me to create. I just recently joined in on her solids stash of the month club. Have you joined in yet?

This will be a great way to preview colors and make things for holidays, or even just to incorporate more solids into your quilting.

I have been a playing tug of war with a pretty bad cold this week, but I hope to be back with some super fun scraps ideas next week. If you would like to share and idea for using or storing scraps. Leave me a comment, and make sure I can contact you to get involved with postings next week. until then

HAPPY SEWING!

{A little Progress} FMF Flower Garden Quilt...

2011-02-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I shared this lovely little number with you all. After being a little overwhelmed and frustrated that it wasn't looking right I decided to make it a flower garden quilt and break up the prints with some solid kona snow.

I am happy to report, that even though this has been a slow going project, I am still in love with it and look forward to finishing it up this year. Right now it measures about a square yard. (3ft x3 ft) I have already pulled the paper pieces from the middle, and love the way it flows. This is the most hand sewing I have done in a very long time.

If I was to start over I probably would have kept the flowers in the same colorways, but I still love it the way I ended up doing it as well. Even the back is pretty to me .

I am happy to be back blogging, we had my sister and her family in town for a visit this week and it was much fun letting Sophie play with her two little cousins. The coolest part is one is a week younger then her. They all got along wonderfully as usual. Her oldest cousin was a blessing helping us with teaching Sophie to use the big potty, I am happy to report we are officially potty trained!

WISHING EVERYONE A GREAT WEEK!

Another year goes by....

2011-02-02T07:58:00.000-08:00

I do not usually make a big deal about my birthday..... ok I am so lying, I love birthdays!! This year however something was a bit different. In fact I almost forgot it was coming until people started reminding me that I was about to be another year older. My mother sending a gift 2 weeks early, the lady at the grocery store who carded me for wine (letting me know I was about to expire.. yeah in 2015), Hey, at least she carded me my hubby who asked to take me to dinner.

This year I was just not feeling the birthday thing. All I wanted to do was take the day off, and spend it with my little girl. When I tried to explain to her this morning that it was my birthday, she insisted that it be her birthday to so she could have cake. Today we have agreed to share my birthday so she can have cake. I think that is the only reason she likes birthdays so much . LOL

Today I feel humbled by my family, my friends, my daughter, I am truly blessed in so many ways that it's hard to think about being another year older. I have had close people loose family members, get sick, or go through things that people should not have to deal with ever. I wish that some days I had a magic clap that fixed it all for everyone. I have met some of the most wonderful, compassionate people in the last year, it amazes me how strong people actually are. This year I will take it all in and enjoy every minute of life. Thank you to everyone who reaches out to me at just the right moment, those of you who read my blog, those of you I can call friends, and everyone around me who makes me who I am. This is just the continuation of a wonderful life.

A TOAST to 31!!!

Katie Jump Rope Giveaway~

2011-01-31T18:05:00.000-08:00

WOWZA!!! 500 comments in this giveaway. I have to tell you this was the most fun giveaway I have ever done. You all share the same love for KJR as I do, and everyone exposed themselves in order to get it (so to speak) I was seriously laughing my tail off on some comments, as a matter of fact their were quite a few Katie's that thought they should win because their name was Katie ;)

Thank you everyone for the great laughs. I see why people love reading blog comments so much, it's quite entertaining. I wish I could give Katie Jump Rope to everyone!

I have cut all 31 templates and now am ready to start cutting, I'm seriously biting my nails hoping I don't goof and ruin a single scrap of this stuff. Look below..... This stack looks like a mama and her KJR cubs, don't it ;)

Who is the winner??

Comment #156 Sara - Joy In Everything

Who said :: Scrumptious KJR fabric for possibly little ole' me???? Why I would find something to make with it that is CLEARLY for SURE:) ~ Follow ur Fantastic blog already and love it!

Comment # 71 Renegade Quilter

Who said :: Oh this fabric makes me think of spring & warm weather & happy thoughts & kids in the park playing & flower gardens...... it sort of takes me away from this winter we are having. If I won I would make the Single Girl quilt.

Thanks for the giveaway!!!

Congrats to you both, you have 48 hours to email me at sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com If I do not hear from you then the next winner will be given a chance.

Now let's get started on that Single girl quilt..... you all as excited as I am???

HAPPY SEWING!

Sunday Stash :: Texture

2011-01-29T16:47:00.000-08:00

The fun part about modern quilting to me it watching it evolve so quickly. Modernizing traditional patterns, and using tons of color to create pieces with personality. Quilts are no longer just blankets they are pieces of art that are idolized more then I have ever seen before.

My new favorite quilting trend is texture. Well I guess I hope it becomes trendy cause I would love to see it used more. Robert Kaufman has cleverly constructed texture like cottons to add that extra zip to your projects without the hassle of the true blend.

For instance, Linen is a very hard texture to work with. Some projects are easier then others, but after attempting a cathedral window pillow with 100% linen last year, I quickly learned that it's not always fun.

These Quilters linens play just like cotton fabrics, with the look of a linen texture. The colors are just amazing in person.

The newest launch is the quilters tweed. I have seen bits and pieces around, but mine did not actually arrive until this afternoon. I honestly can say that I am impressed with these. Again they play like cotton, with the true look of tweed fabrics. They look heavy and textured, the blends of color are just fantastic. They are truly beautiful to the touch and easy on the eyes. I see many texture look-a-likes in my quilting future.

The Quilters linen I got from Simply Solid Fabrics

The Quilters Tweed is from Ebay

Thank you Robert Kaufman for keeping up with us eager quilters.

HAPPY SEWING.

Single Girl Support Group ~ Giveaway

2011-01-26T14:59:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a yummy set of fabrics to set the mood on a new quilting adventure. I have wanted to make this quilt for a very long time, and thanks to this wonderful group of ladies we can all join in on the fun.

Come join us for the Single girl quilt along, and don't forget to join the single girl support group while your at it.

To celebrate this fun adventure, I am giving away 2 bundles of KJR (Katie Jump Rope) by Denyse Schmidt.

Each bundle has enough fabric to make the pattern with a little left over depending on what size you choose. There is a 1/8 yard each of 27 prints. (not all of them are here but almost ) see the photo below for exact bundles you can win. I will choose 2 people to win on Monday January 30th.

International entries are welcome.

1:: Leave a comment about how this fabric makes you feel, what you would make with it if not this quilt, how badly do you want this bundle ;) Just about anything about this fabric I will accept, it's one of my favorite lines.

2:: If your a follower of my blog I will add in another entry into the contest.

GOOD LUCK!!!

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED!!!

Storage fun!

2011-01-24T10:39:00.000-08:00

It has been 3 weeks now in my new studio. I love how spacious this one feels to me compared to the first room I picked. The windows were great, but I love the floor and wall space much better.

I have been trying to find creative storage ideas for the new room, but make it look clean and fresh still.

So I took these.......

And put them in these way cool Aqua glass vases I got at Joann's fabrics yesterday. Retail price was about 29.99 each but they were getting rid of them for a steal at just under 8.00. My lucky day. The jars are about 14"tall.

One Jar holds 1 and 1/4" hexies, and the other are 1 inch. I randomly make hexies with scraps when I have some down time on the couch. This will now give me a place to keep them when I have a project in mind.

Plus, look who else has discovered how wonderful these are... Dump and pick up, dump and pick up. Just like a hexagon piggy bank.

Happy Sewing!

Sierra's Forest Quilt

2011-01-21T15:21:00.000-08:00

After spending a few months half finished on my design wall, this beauty was completed last night. I have many new ideas for quilts and I promised myself that if both design walls were being used, I had to finish one before I started another.

Pattern is Sierra's Forest by Kate Conklin

Fabric Inspiration :: Porcelina by Michele D'Amore for Marcus Brothers

Other fabrics added:: Moda Early bird Ovals, AMH Voile, Moda Crossweaves, RK Kona cottons

Happy Quilting

Color POP!

2011-01-18T20:11:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to figure out color combinations for projects lately. It's been fun raiding through my stash and seeing different colors put together. Sometimes I throw scraps in the air just to see how they fall. I love seeing the colors that seem to cling to each other and therefore inspire another great craft project.

Seeing things in motion, on people, in daily life always inspire something creative.

Here are some other pallets that I am loving right now.

Photo Courtesy of { philistine made }

Photo By Little Miss Shabby

What colors are inspiring you right now? Maybe some wild combination . Like hot pink and black? Aqua and orange....

Showcase your kids.

2011-01-17T10:21:00.000-08:00

Little Sophie received this very cool art easel for Christmas. As much as she loves being in my sewing studio, I wanted her to have her own little art center to where she can get messy and be creative. One side has a paper roll that tears off and gives a clean usable sheet of paper as well as a whiteboard underneath. The other side is a chalkboard

The first day Sophie painted on it, this is what she made......

These papers are about the size of a FQ of fabric. I decided to hunt down some inexpensive frames to showcase these in her room.

Art Easel Santa Brought :)

3 frames- $21.00 (joanns Clearance)

Sophie's face after showing her how proud I was - PRICELESS

Kids really get a kick outta something they made themselves, I saw proud smiles all over her face, and every time she sees them on the walls of her room. Talk about making my day.

I also picked up a few for myself to showcase the photos from Sarah Costa in My Studio. (GORGEOUS!!!! )

GET YOUR CRAFT ON!

WIP's and a WINNER

2011-01-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

I have been hit by the crafting bug, seriously! I found myself in line at the post office the other day, and seeing something as simple as a valentine greeting card that inspired a quilt idea, as well as this cute little zippy pouch.

I also added a new quilt to my design wall. So loving the pillow I made for the PTS swap, I decided to use the same colors for this one. My 18 year old brother who is autistic, loves blues and greens. I made him a quilt ten years ago made with kitty cats all over it. I think it's about time for an upgrade :)

I also finished my bee block for the Bee Hexed in bee. The entire bee is focused around Tacha's pillow cover from the very first issue of Fat Quarterly. I love all the unique color pallets that people are coming up with for this bee.

I would love to see what your working on.

post a link for me to see a photo or blog post. Inspiration comes from the things you never expect until it's there. Do you see crafts in your daily life to?

Happy Sewing!

Fashionable Fabrics and me would like to say a BIG thank you for all the comments you sent. I expect to see big things coming for 2011 so keep your eye out and check their facebook page.

Winner for the Gift Card to Fashionable Fabrics is JEAN

Congratulations Jean you WON a $35.00 GC to Fashionable Fabrics, please email me your contact info at sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com

Sunday Stash :: Sponser Giveaway

2011-01-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

My Newest Favorite Fabric. Kiss The cook, I can picture this making the cutest things for my kitchen in the near future. I am constantly struggling to find cute things for my kitchen and bathroom at the retail stores. It's always more fun to make something unique and original for yourself.

Want Some??

One of my fantastic sponsors " Fashionable Fabrics" would like to give you a $35.00 gift Certificate for your choice in there fabulous and unique fabric boutique.

Here is how to win this great prize.

1 entry for a comment left here on this post. Please visit Fashionable fabrics and tell me about what you would choose from there beautiful selection.

1 entry for liking Fashionable fabrics on Facebook visit here to link up with them on Facebook. Leave a comment for them if you want, they love hearing from you.

2 Entries for adding their shop button to your blog.

If you want another entry, share this post with your facebook or twitter friends, Then leave another comment telling me you did.

You can leave me one comment telling me everything you did for your chance to win, or leave separate comments it's up to you.

Total of 5 possible entries in this great giveaway. Winner will be chosen via random.org on Thursday January 13th 2011.

Good Luck Everyone

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED

Birdie Block of the month

2011-01-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

I joined up in a block of the month group with little miss shabby. Embroidery is a new adventure for me. I just started to teach myself through you tube videos and blogs. Although it's only a few months into it, I really love having another project to have on hand while traveling or when I just want to relax with a glass of wine.

Every month Little Miss Shabby will post a new embroidery challenge for everyone to make. It's a free design and you can quilt along with us, and share your blocks with the flickr group.

Fabric used::

Robert Kaufman Kona Snow

Moda Sugar Pop - by Liz Scott

How do you learn a new talent? Books? Classes? Are you more a visual learner rather then a person who can be told something and just do it? I am curious now.

Craft On!

Bloggers Pillow Party

2011-01-06T11:27:00.000-08:00

Having all this extra time now that the holiday is over, sure is inspiring me to do things I normally would not have time for. Like those days that you get this really great idea to do something, but by the time you have a moment to try it, you forget why you thought it was cool in the first place. Or lucky if you even remember it.

That is my life story. I am turning 31 next month maybe it's affecting my brain a little.

I decided to enter into this pillow party contest and try my luck. I will have a new pillow next month but for this month I wanted to include the pillow made around Christmastime for the PTS swap over on Flickr, because I really do love the way it turned out.

This pillow currently resides in Australia with Nova. she was my lucky swap partner. She loves sleek an modern design along with a little stitchy goodness. To be honest, Nova truly inspired this design. Her love of cross quilts and solids, with stitches in surprise spots, made this project extra fun. Although her swaps usually involve incredible details, she also loves simplicity. The colors were her favorite as well. Blue, green, and gray, then she also mentioned she liked splashes of red.

After a very thought out design the top was finished and, it didn't quite look how I wanted. I ended up having this empty space in the corner with no color. That is when the idea to stitch it came in.

Never be afraid of something that doesn't turn out the way you thought it would, is will inspire you to make something new. That is my motto for 2011!

The entire pillow is made Robert Kaufman's Kona Solids and Essex linen in Putty. Each square is 2 inches by 2 inches sewn together with a helpful patchwork tip using interfacing to keep the lines sleek and the points matching.

The Pillow arrived just days ago and I am looking forward to seeing how it looks in it's new home with Nova.

Want to play to? Stop By Stitched In Color for Details on how to enter your pillow to.

Happy Stitching~

Gettin My Craft on ....

2011-01-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

2011 has turned out great so far, how bout yours? It's our first Monday of the new year, and I am feeling great about all the crafty accomplishments I hope to get through. I am becoming a little addicted to my social media choices lately being as it's such a great way to keep in touch with friends, share pictures and stories. It's always great to also get feedback on something that your working on.

One of my goals this year is to make more patterns and tutorials, I also plan on making at least 6 quilts this year, I would strive for more as I know I can do it, just not sure what tasks the new year will bring yet. Another goal is to share more with you all, pictures, more posts, stopping by blogs and actually commenting instead of peaking in windows :)

What are your new years resolutions?

To start the sharing here are a few things I have been working on.

Jane Market Bags, a gift for a Mother in Law with a birthday

You to can make these find the pattern here.

A new Kindle pouch for the shop. After getting one for Christmas (thank you hubby) I had to make a new design . Super cute, VERY well made and protective for a great price. We all know the economy is slow. Everyone deserves a little handmade for a great price right ?

They are available in the shop now.

And the Top for my Sweetwater quilt is now finished. You can view all the quilts from this quilt along on flickr here. I am in LOVE with this quilt. I tried to pass it off as manly so my hubby would use it but he thinks there is not such thing as a manly quilt. Boy do I have some pictures to show him this year :)

Get your Craft On!

Adventures from 2010

2010-12-30T15:44:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share with everyone my last project completed for 2010. I call it simply modern.

I have officially made more time in my busy schedule to fit more quilting projects in. Oh how I miss the feeling that a new quilt gives me. I hope to finish many beautiful inspiring quilts in 2011 to share with everyone.

This project was for round 4 of the pillow talk swap (my partner has not received it yet so it's still a secret who they are) But I have a feeling it will be a big hit.

I always tend to overdo things, trying to fit to many neat techniques into one project can over power the look you are after. I went back to simplicity for this pillow, and I love how it turned out. Although I like simple, extravagant is also a fav for me.

This is the recap of 2010! all of my favorite projects that were big hits with me as well as some of you.

1. Flying home on monday ;), 2. Sunglasses case :: Tutorial, 3. Fin:: Jane Market Bag :: Echino Spring 2010, 4. 060, 5. Quilted Pop Garden Seahorse iPad cover for Julie, 6. Heathers B-day gift, 7. Washed and ready for the Costa girls, 8. Pillow Close up, 9. PTS 4 , 10. Fat Quarterly Quilt along 2010, 11. The BIG REVEAL...., 12. Pillow Swap Pillow 16x16 -Front, 13. IPad cover prototype, 14. new bag in the shop green week 2009, 15. Feature in Fat Quarterly, 16. Gift size market bag

Thank you for being a part of my crazy craft adventures in 2010 here is to another wonderful inspiring year in 2011. In fact here is a little sneaky peak on something I just pieced last night :)

I can't wait to see what you all will make in the new year.

2011 Get your craft on!

Sunday Stash:: Christmas edition

2010-12-26T21:26:00.000-08:00

Can you say mouth hit the floor goodness....... Etsuko Furuya Echino solid Fat Quarters. Purchased by my hubby of all people on etsy of all places. He knows how much I just love etsy and that is where he found the majority of my Christmas gifts this year.

New Fabric, a kindle, some great deco stuff and even a cute handmade handcuff necklace that I have wanted FOREVER. He done good this year. He even did it all looking this handsome.......

From our family to yours, lotsa hugs and wishes for a wonderful new year.

What did you get for Christmas?

Winners

2010-12-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

In this Giveaway everyone wins. Jake raised a little over 300 dollars for his efforts to help find a cure for ALS. Thank you to all who helped spread the word, and contributed to this wonderful cause.

Here are the winners

Strawberry Patches GC - Barb Boyack

Hawthorne Threads AB sweet life bag - Mary Fallon

Fashionable Fabrics GC - Coffee & Cotton

Miss Ruby Sue Headband - MJ & Co

Jane's Fabrics Charm Packs - Sarah Fielke

Sew-Fantastic GC - Kelly Bowser

For a Reminder of what the prizes were or to continue to help Jake reach his goal click here

Winners please email me at sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com with your name, email that is easiest to reach you, and mailing address and your sponsor will contact you with details on how to redeem your prize.

** On a side note, thank you to everyone who left encouraging words on my last post. It was a bit personal but your comments helped me get through the emotions and ready to move on. Thank you .

What would you do?

2010-12-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

After living in a place I was so familiar with for over 20 years, and then picking up and moving. I have found in the last few months I have come to a crossroad that I have to eventually come to terms with.

It's easy to find things you love in a new place, new surroundings, new friends. Eventually it starts to wear on you, and you begin to realize that maybe what you left behind was worth more to you then the reasons you left in the first place.

After our first three months here in California, so many good things have happened to us. I have met some wonderful people, even made a few friends, but in regards to my family, it has not made us happier like we originally thought. We assumed a new enviorment would give us a fresh start, but have learned that with the economy that is not the easiest to do.

With my husband still struggling to find work somewhere in the tech industry, living in a city that is oil based with no tech jobs in sight, we just might have to reconsider our decision.

Should we go back to Portland? Stay here and see if it works out in the next few months, being miserable? I probably should not be post something this personal on my blog, but today I really needed to say it out loud. And you know that whole misery loves company thing is true. I miss my friends, the comfort of knowing what would happen everyday, my family, all of the things that made me feel like I was my own person and not a puppet in someones else's world.

I understand that the holidays make people more emotional then normal, and maybe I will get past this, but right now I just want to move back home with everything that made me who I am. Today I feel like a stranger in my own world.

The Spirit Of Giving :: Giveaway Raffle

2010-11-30T19:57:00.000-08:00

Within 2 weeks of our move to Bakersfield, I had the privilege to meet a strong soul named Suzanne. Suzanne owns one of the local quilt shops here in Bakersfield California called The Strawberry Patch. The minute I went into her shop, it was like a breath of fresh air, beautiful fabric selections and very helpful, and kind worker bees buzzing around in the Strawberry Patch.

Little did I know the story behind this woman was one of solid hope. Hope that there was a light in the end of every tunnel. hope that there is always something better coming at the end of something sad.. Just days after we had arrived here Suzanne lost her son at 40 years old to ALS. After hearing of her news I immediately admired her strength and her wholesomeness.

Her grandson Jake was no exception, as I heard of his story to raise money to save his daddy from the disease that was taking his life. At nine years old Jake started by taking his penny bank to school, to ask his friends to help in his efforts to find a cure for ALS. This small boy started something very big by begigining an entire foundation dedicated to finding a cure for ALS. Selling wristbands, asking for donations, rafflling off quilts and much more. Please read some of his story here.

Sadly Jake did loose his father to the disease this last September, but he continues to fight for the cause.

Jake's story has inspired many to help him with his efforts to find a cure for ALS. We are now bringing the cause to you, my blogging friends. My other family practically. All the caring people out there that do so many wonderful things all year round with the connection of just the Internet friendships we all admire so much. Sponsors have also come forward with many donations to help, and now by your word of mouth and generosity, we to can give a little part to help Jake save someone else's family member from ALS in the future.

The Strawberry Patch
is offering a very generous $50.00 gift certificate to her fabric shop

(that is 50.00 worth of fabric people)

***********************

Hawthorne Threads
is offering up an Amy Butler Sweet Life bag
this bag is worth over $80.00

**********************

Our Newest Sponsor Fashionable Fabrics
is giving away a $35.00 Gift Certificate to their fabric shop
(They have a little heather Ross Mendocino in there still to *wink*wink*)

**************************

Another New sponsor Miss Ruby Sue
Is donating her Maggie Headband
Value worth 60.00 and it's gorgeous!

******************

Most of you know Jane from Jane's Fabrics

She is donating 2 charm packs from the Domestic Diva collection

********************

I am also giving away a $50.00 GC to my shop Sew-Fantastic

My shop will be closed through the holiday but it will be reopend in January for your shopping pleasure.

All of these wonderful people are giving something of themselves to encourage others to donate for Jake's cause. We will be selling raffle tickets for $1.00 Each, and each ticket is worth an entry to win one of these great prizes. there are five chances to win a great prize. Even a few dollars helps in his efforts to remember his father living up with the lord. 100% of the proceeds will go to this cause!

He is looking down right now and saying,..... That's my boy.

Please help with anything you can, spread the word to everyone you know lets help Jake put a nice Christmas chunk into that ALS fund. Let's show the strawberry Patch family what great things we can do when we all come together.

I have much respect for each and every reader, the amazing friendships I have formed just by writing on this blog. I truly admire you all and thank you for anything, and everything you do.

Thank you and god bless you this holiday season and always.

If you would also like to donate something in reference to this raffle please email me at sewfantasticblog@yahoo.com

Local anyone ??

2010-11-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

If you live in California around here, come check me out at my booth this Saturday. Lots of yummy goodies and gift ideas for the holidays. Everyone is invited feel free to share with your friends .

Under Construction

2010-11-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! I hope we are all on track for the holiday season. I have been sewing my little heart out trying to stay on top of things. I Have many things to share with you after the blog has been finished.

what do you think of the new graphics so far? This wonderful etsian created them for me after running a few simple ideas through her. I even got a holiday version he he I am giddy with excitement.

I have many projects going on and thought I would share a few pictures to get your inspiration peaking for the holiday. Enjoy, and I will be back soon with some more show and tell.

The Fat Quarterly Quilt along quilt in Kona solids ( FINISHED)

A New quilt in progress

Sophie met her great grandpa last week for the first time, and they played the piano together. Check it out here

SEW much to catch up on!

2010-10-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

It's done..... Finished! My husband always says "I have seen you create so many quilts, but how many of them have you finished". Ha!! The story of my life. I am hoping to create a quilt for all those wonderful family members that have been dreaming for one this year for Christmas.

I should probly note that this quilt made for Sophia's reading chair is not my favorite. Or my best, I tried a few new things using variegated thread and hated it.

I loved how the back was though. The colors were so her. To be honest I did finish it, but still hated it deep down.

UNTIL.............

I saw this. Just 20 minutes after it was removed from the dryer, Sophie was on it with her books. Then again later wrapped up in it watching her movie.

so all in all, the trials were so worth it, and I learned a lot.

We have spent a lot of family time together this week, something that I have needed desperately. After all most of what I do is for my family, but I feel as if I am always to busy for them.

We saw Disney on ice this weekend... Can you tell she liked it ?

Next quilt on the books I haven't snapped a picture of yet but you can see the fabrics I choose today for a boys quilt. Not sure yet if I want all solids or to keep the prints in it. What do you think?

And I know you all love photos.... here is my block for the quilting bee "Bee Hexed in" Featuring a pattern from Tacha in the first issue of Fat Quarterly. All those colors I showed you earlier made this beautiful block.

Speaking of Fat Quarterly... did you see me in the holiday issue of the ezine? there are tone of free patterns in every issue but this issue was great for holiday gift ideas. If you do not subscribe I suggest you should start :)

I did the pattern from Rashinda's book I love patchwork, using Kate Spain's 12 day's of Christmas fabric.

Go pick up your issue now!

I hope you enjoyed all the great going on's sorry I been gone so long... What have you been up to ?

Holiday sewing already?....

I also would like to wish all my friends fying to Quilt Market this weekend to have a fun and safe flight.

HAPPY SEWING!

Square it Up!

2010-10-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the smell of fabric fibers coming off the metal in your rotary blade? No?? Must just be me. I believe that quilting is more of a personality for me. Like having a second me doing all this fun creative crazy stuff and then the real me looks at it and says "where did that come from" With the movement of modern quilting taking such a big part of my new found love for piecing those little tiny scraps of fabric.

I find now, that the things I used to think of as tedious are now my favorite parts of the quilting process. Even after quilting for 15 years, I find something new that I love about quilting every time I start one.

I spent some time squaring up my blocks for the Fat Quarterly Quilt along (I am already way behind). I love those solid Kona colors in such a simple, yet modern pattern. Those crisp edges get me every time.

They are so beautiful aren't they.......

Do you see how much of a difference it makes on my design board from pieces to pieced!

And unfortunately my fabric organization project has floated by the wayside.... but here is a progress shot.

I can't wait until I finish this job to see how much room I have left to buy more fabric :)

HAPPY SEWING!