Maureen Cracknell Handmade

Bottled Raindows Quilt Blocks : :

2012-02-01T08:54:00.002-05:00

Finally, right!? Well, it certainly has been a while since I crossed another bottled rainbow color off my list! My plan from last week worked! Just before I leave my sewing room, I'll open the door to my closet where these blocks hang, and each time I re-enter, they're the first things I see. Is it sad that I am able to trick myself like that? :)

So, Jacey and I are the only ones I know of who are still v.e.r.y...s.l.o.w.l.y... plugging away at this project. Are any of you? Maybe if we can all agree on a finish date, we can get these done "together"?

My cerise block. Isn't this such a pretty shade of purple? I think so!

My grass and either my orange or tangerine block. Can you tell these have been folded up and tucked away for a while?

I added in a little fussy cut, green Alexander Henry owl -- I had to!

This makes three more finished! Just three more to go!!!

I did pick up a different project last night, so those three will have to wait just a little longer.

Do any of you remember this project? The link takes you back to July 2010, yup! When I began my very first attempt at quilting. Lets just say I was WAY too ambitious! Well, with all the thinking I did throughout January about these past two years of blogging and sewing, this project remains one of my very favorites. It needs to be finished! I'll show you where I'm at with it tomorrow!

Happy February 1st, friends!

Tuesday Inspiration : :

2012-01-31T09:19:00.005-05:00

First, I need to mention quickly that yesterday was my two year blog-iversary! Woot!! I cannot believe that I forgot! I spent this entire month thinking about it, planning for it, and then the business of this past weekend erased it all from my mind. This happened last year, too! LOL So, hows about we celebrate on Friday with a super gorgeous Daisy Janie Tilly giveaway? And shhhh, don't tell my husband that forgetting anniversaries is perfectly acceptable around here. Our 10 year is just 3 months away and I already have my presents picked out! :)

Citrus + Melon

citrus color palette * posie gets cozy quilt * owl measuring cups * yellow lamp * yellow bed frame

* orange nightstand * fabric baskets * courthouse steps quilt * coral headboard *

yellow yarns * aqua lamp * yellow chevron pillow * marianne burr quilt

Last night I was looking at my new fabric stashings, trying to find a way to link them together, other than the fact that they're all so very pretty. Immediately I thought of citrus and melon!

This turquoise and yellow bundle is from Fresh Squeezed Fabrics. Randi had offered these in one of her Tuesday fat 8th giveaways (today's Tuesday people, go enter!) and I completely fell in love, had to have them! Such a great bundle!!

These, I imagine, have lots of you running out to the nearest Joann. Aunt Edna by Denyse Schmidt! I wasn't planning on buying them, but once I saw them in person, well I just couldn't resist. They were 30% off, but I was a bit surprised at the price increase. I only brought home 1/4 yd cuts since I already have a project in mind.

I made a crown with these pretty melon hues yesterday, too!

And finally, my Riley Blake Chevron Cottons. I'm all about chevron anything and everything right now, how about you? These will be for a pin cushion project I'll be doing as part of the RBD 2012 Pin Cushion Club in May.

How about you? What color combinations are you loving these days? Oh! And my two year sew-iversary is in March, which I really want to celebrate, someone please remind me! :)

Our Loulouthi Scarves : :

2012-01-30T09:55:00.005-05:00

This weekend my girl and I did a little sewing together and made ourselves each a new scarf with Anna Maria Horner's lovely Loulouthi.

I stashed some Loulouthi voile and flannel recently from Modern Fabric Studio (for a great price!) and used the same directions I gave for my Simple Children's Scarf tutorial, just altering the measurements to allow for wider and lengthier scarves. I'm planning on adding the how-to for these to my tutorial page, as well.

It was a great afternoon project for the two of us to do together!

Anna Maria's flannels are so soft and wonderful! We both prefer the feel of these fabrics around our necks, over a knitted scarf. She chose this aqua Flower Circles print in Maiden.

I chose an aqua thread to add my top stitching.

These are my very favorite prints! The voile is Clippings in Forrest and the flannel, Flower Circles in Twilight.

My new rotary cutter came just in time!

Our scarves were quick and easy to make. The combination of the voile and flannel make them so super soft and snuggly!

Aren't they pretty?

We think so!

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered this past weekends giveaway! From the 1109 entries that came in before 10pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment # 47, Katy!! Congratulations Katy, please email me @ maureencracknell@hotmail.com, so you can receive and enjoy your winnings.
* UPDATE* I just realized that Katy is a no reply commenter and her email is not available in her profile. I will wait until Wednesday to hear from Katy, and if I do not, a new name will be drawn.

Wishing you all a lovely new week!

A Sponsor GIVEAWAY : :

2012-01-27T09:17:00.003-05:00

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It's time for a Friday Fabric Giveaway!!!

My sponsor The Intrepid Thread is a family owned and run business. They carry Fat Quarters, Half Yards, Yards, and Yardage, as well as patterns and embellishments. Their designer fabrics include many of our favorites -- Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry, Anna Maria Horner, Riley Blake, and Aneela Hoey just to name a few! The owners work extremely hard everyday to bring their customers the best fabrics, at the best prices, with high quality customer service!

The ladies behind The Intrepid Thread have been busy -- in a couple weeks they will be having the Grand Opening of a brand new e-commerce site, which will be a full service online shop!! They just marked down over 200 items to 30% off in their sale section including Power Pop, Pear Tree, Primitiva, Sugar Hill, Happiness and Petal Pushers!! Be sure to stop by!!!

* Update! Julie just announced on her blog -- This week you can take a additional 10% off on everything in your cart with this coupon code: CLEAR10 Special is good until 2/3/12. WOW! *

The Prize!

The Intrepid Thread is generously offering this gorgeous custom bundle of tangerine, aqua & teal, and gray & black fabrics to one of my readers. That's nine Fat Quarters of these gorgeous designs!!! You can find this bundle in their shop right here, available in both fat quarter and half yard cuts. This bundle was inspired after Julie saw my Color Love post a couple weeks back. What a thrill it was for me to see a bundle named after me! Julie is the sweetest!!

Aren't they beautiful!

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Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. (one entry) If you want, you can let us know something you hope to stitch up this year?
2. Follow The Intrepid Thread Blog or facebook page. Just let me know that you did by making a separate comment here to record that entry. (one entry)
3. My followers get a third entry! Whether you follow me here or on Facebook, just let me know that you do by making a separate comment here to record that entry. (one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, January 29th. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or an anonymous commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you, should you win!

Thank you all and a huge thanks to The Intrepid Thread!!!

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Good Luck and have a weekend!!

Right Now : :

2012-01-26T09:56:00.000-05:00

I can't stop adding more projects to my sewing list these days. I'm sure it has a little to do with not feeling very well and needing to stay busy and positive. I'm also certain that it has everything to do with this weather. Cold, rainy?, windy, snowy. I don't mind having so much to keep me busy indoors, that's for sure. But at some point I might need one of you to say, "o.k. Maureen, stop!" :)

Here's a look at some of the photos I've taken recently -- the brand new, the finishes, and the still waiting.

I'm working on a second tutorial with Valentine's Day in mind. And oh, it's not a pillow!

Here are a few of the pillow and crown sets I shipped out this week -- orders that came through my etsy. Cute!

Then there's my scrappy quilt! I seem to only be able to take really bad pictures of this, I'm so sorry! I've finished two panels of three 20" square blocks sewn together, however the panels aren't yet sewn together. I'm not sure how many I'll make or how I'll arrange them just yet? I might need your help on that!

My hook of wips from last week. My mini has come along way, I just need to add the binding. Otherwise, each of these hangers represents another unfinished project so large, it needs to be hanging. Do you think I'm crazy yet?

Of course there's my Bottled Rainbows quilt blocks. I have them all hanging neatly behind the closet door above. Perhaps if I have them out where I can see them, I'll get back to them? Yes, that's what I'm going to do!

And yesterday, I received my Fly A Kite fabrics from Riley Blake! These lovelies will become my first tutorial for the Project Team and have me very excited to began yet another new project this afternoon!

After all of that, I think it's best if I hear "Maureen, keep going!" from you all today!! It's busy, maybe crazy, but I do love it!!

p.s. Tomorrow I'll be having a new fabric giveaway sponsored by The Intrepid Thread! Here's a peek. Be sure to stop back!!

Quilted Heart Throw Pillow Tutorial : :

2012-01-25T08:12:00.002-05:00

Today's tutorial is for a fun and sweet Valentine's Day pillow cover -- A Quilted Heart Throw Pillow. Using several cuts of my very favorite red and pink fabrics, cherry red wool blend felt, and little hand stitching, I created this pillow for a fast and cute V-day decoration!

What you'll need : :

1 - Pillow Insert measuring 12" x 12"
9 - pieces of quilting weight fabric measuring 2" x 13"
1 - piece of batting (I use a bamboo/wool blend) measuring 14" x 14"
1 - piece of bright red wool blend felt measuring 12.5" x 12.5"
2 - 9" x 12.5" pieces of fabric for the back of the pillow (I used a white and red polka dot)
Fabric pen
Sewing pins
Sharp scissors and/or a rotary cutter/mat set
thread and embroidery floss/baker's twine

Creating the Quilted Pillow Top : :

1. Cut 9 strips of fabric measuring 2" x 13" 2. Piece together using a 1/4" seam allowance 3. Use iron to press seams open

4. Trim pieced together fabrics to measure a 12.5" square 5. Using pins, baste the pieced together fabrics (pillow top) to the piece of batting

6. Use coordinating thread to add quilting stitches to the pillow top and batting layers 7. Once finished, remove pins and trim away excess batting

8. Using a fabric pen, draw a heart on the wool blend felt large enough to show off the quilted fabrics 9. Cutting along the outside of the drawn heart, cut felt away to show the heart 10. Pin felt heart piece to quilted fabric layer and sew around the heart leaving a 1/4" seam, removing pins as you go

11. Use embroidery floss or a red and white baker's twine to hand sew a running stitch around the heart

Your pillow top is completely finished! Now, for instructions on finishing the envelope style back, please see my Quilted Stripes Pillow Tutorial here. The directions needed can be found in the "Sewing Pillow Together" section of that tutorial.

Insert the pillow form and Voila! You're done!

I had a lot of fun making this pillow, I hope you do too!

Echo Pillow : :

2012-01-24T10:02:00.002-05:00

I finished my Echo Pillow! I really love these fabrics and think this pillow looks pretty good sitting in my favorite chair!

My plan was to make pillowcases out of these for my bedroom, but when my very best friend told me how much she loved them, I had to make her a pillow!

It was a good excuse for me to practice my quilting.

Straight lines scare me!

I love the back. If I had enough fabric, I'd make a set using just these two prints as the front for another pillow.

And, maybe even one more for myself...

Happy sewing!

Mr. Fox : :

2012-01-23T21:09:00.002-05:00

I made a Mr. Fox pillow today, as a custom order request that came through my etsy, and I just had to share!

I hope everyone had a great day!

Goodnight, friends!! ♥ Maureen

Weekend Sewing : :

2012-01-23T09:38:00.004-05:00

This weekend was really nice. It finally feels like the middle of Winter and with that comes lots of indoor time and projects for all of us. Of course for me that just means even more sewing time! :) Here's a little bit of what my "weekend sewing" looked like...

I finally cut into my Echo, add in there some Half Moon Modern Chevron, too. This will be a quilted pillow, but I can imagine a quilt made up of these blocks and am tempted to keep going!

I took some new photos to have and share. The first photos of my Scrappy Quilter Improv block were pretty bad, but I was just too excited to share to wait for good lighting. I snapped a few new pics on Saturday, just before I attached it to my other quilt blocks. I'm very close to having that quilt top completely finished -- I'm very excited!!

I took a new photo of my Quilted Heart pillow, too. I'm working on a tutorial and expect to be sharing that on Wednesday!

Lots of birthday crowns were and are always being made!

A little Pink Castle Fabrics mail came on Saturday! Aren't they pretty? I'm collecting every color of one of my very favorite prints, Lizzy House's Jewels. I LOVE these colors! And on top is a zig zag stripe for my mini quilt binding.

On Sunday, just before bedtime and as I was about to begin cleaning the huge mess that was my "weekend sewing" room, Jacob brought my very first Valentine gift of the year.

I love it!

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered this past weekends giveaway! From the 1029 entries that came in before 10pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment # 471, Rhonda D in southeast Missouri!! I hope you enjoy your winnings, I will be in touch shortly!

Wishing you all a lovely new week!

A Sponsor GIVEAWAY : :

2012-01-20T09:00:00.062-05:00

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It's Fabric Giveaway Friday!

My sponsor Moona Fabrics is owned and operated by a mother/daughter-in-law team, both of whom are passionate about gorgeous fabric. They love to sew, and their mission is to find the most beautiful and highest quality fabric out there and share their finds with all of us! They get new fabrics in frequently, so bookmark them and visit often!

The Prize!

Moona Fabrics is offering a fat quarter bundle of the Monaluna Circa 52 Collection, a modern group of cute, graphic prints by Birch Fabrics! That's 7 fat quarters of these colorful, adorable designs! Birch Fabrics are 100% organic cotton and are printed with low impact dyes. The fabric is a medium-weight weave, making it ideal for quilting, apparel, baby and kids’ items, as well as home accessories. The entire collection is available for sale in the Moona Fabrics shop now!

Aren't they sweet!

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This is my very favorite print of the bunch -- Woodland Party in Cream. Peek-a-boo foxes, adorable owls, little birdies in the trees, and colorful bunting! It really is perfection!!
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Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply leave a comment here in this post. You can include what you'd make if you won. I love reading all of your ideas! (one entry)
2. Visit Moona Fabrics and sign up to receive their Newsletter (it's located on the bottom left side of their website). Just let me know that you did by making a separate comment here to record that entry. (one entry)
3. My followers get a third entry! Whether you follow me here or on Facebook, just let me know that you do by making a separate comment here to record that entry. (one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, February 22st. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or anonymous commenter, please remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Good Luck everyone!!! Thank you and a huge thanks to Moona Fabrics!!!

Mini Quilt Progress : :

2012-01-18T21:42:00.151-05:00

First I need to shamelessly point out all of the changes that I made to my blog last night, just in case you don't notice! hehe What do you think? It honestly felt like it took me forever, but was so long overdue! I still have lots to add/change/update, but I think it looks less messy and much more colorful, so I'm happy. :) And, I want to say thank you for all the well wishes you left me on my Riley Blake news! We're very excited!

Today I have a little Valentine's mini quilt progress to share...

I started quilting it and quickly became very stuck? My plan has always been to piece the quilt top and then to do some sketch-y type quilting with black thread, similar to the way I've done fmq over my applique pillows. After I added the black stitching, it still looked very plain and I knew I needed to add more quilting in all that aqua space. Thankfully Jacey was there to help!

I do like the way the back looks like a simple drawing!

I decided to keep it simple and add some swirly designs throughout the sky.

What do you think? What would you have done?

I'm still not sure if I should be done with the quilting, but I have some time to figure it out while I wait for my binding fabric to arrive. I look forward to hearing your ideas!

It's starting to look like Valentine's Day in my favorite corner!

I'm off to finish up this weeks birthday crown orders and then work on my Scrappy Quilt! I can't wait to show you how that one's coming together!!

p.s. Tomorrow I'll be having a new fabric giveaway sponsored by Moona Fabrics! Here's a peek. Be sure to stop back!!

Some Special News : :

2012-01-17T10:38:00.005-05:00

I think we can all agree that if you're looking for cute fabrics, Riley Blake Designs can provide! I'm a huge fan all things cute, themed, and fun -- so I'm a HUGE fan of Riley Blake!

In case your not yet familiar... Riley Blake Designs is a fabric, notions and trim manufacturer based in Utah and they produce some of the most adorable fabrics on the market. My most favorite owl doll that I have ever made happens to be made with my most favorite Riley Blake's! Say hello!!

Well, today I have a very special announcement to make that I've been dying to share with all of you for quite some time now -- I'm an official member of the very first Riley Blake Designs Project Design Team!! Yay! I'm so excited to have been asked to be a part of this amazing team!

What is the Riley Blake Project Design Team exactly? It's a group of creative bloggers who will be sharing new projects, patterns and tutorials on the Riley Blake Designs blog every Wednesday throughout the year. We will be showcasing the new lines of fabrics that are being released in free projects from quilting, clothing, home decor, and more. They have been keeping the new project design team under wraps, but the members of the team have officially been announced. Check them out!!

Becky Vandenburg-http://www.ucreatewithkids.com/
Liz and Elizabeth-http://www.simplesimonandco.com/
Maureen Cracknell-http://maureencracknellhandmade.blogspot.com/
Melissa Mortenson-http://www.polkadotchair.com/
Heather Jones-http://www.oliveandollie.com/
Lindsay Wilkes-http://thecottagehome.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Hadfield-http://tatertotsandjello.com/
Madame Samm-http://www.sewiquiltnow.com/
Char-http://www.crapivemade.com/
Tam-http://www.sewdangcutecrafts.com/

Please take a minute or two to visit them if you can. You'll find some wonderful blogs full of amazing inspiration! In addition to projects, we will also be doing fabric giveaways for the new lines that are being released throughout the year. I still can't believe that I am getting this opportunity and I can't wait to share more about all of this with you as the details unfold.

As always, thank you for your support, friends!! ♥ Maureen

Busy Weekend : :

2012-01-16T09:50:00.006-05:00

It has been a very busy weekend here! But I stayed up late sewing Friday night and had about three hours all to my self Saturday afternoon to try a little more improv. yay! After the wonderful reaction I received from my first improv piece, I realize that's going to be a tough one to top! I want to make a mini quilt, something much more simple and fun for Valentine's Day, to hang where our advent calendar used to be.

What do you think?

I was inspired by Rachel to try my first curve! And, I used some scraps left over from a little Valentine's Day pillow I made on Friday with this pretty stack of reds and pinks.

Here it is -- my first finished Valentine's Day project! I have a few more ideas, too. We had a lot of fun last year with this holiday! Since we moved just a few short days after Christmas last year and didn't take the time to do much decorating, once February came along, the kiddos were all about it! Paper hearts and garland everywhere, little hearts to keep us warm, and I can never forget that celery stamp project!

If you'd be interested in a little tutorial for this pillow, just let me know! I took lots of pictures hoping someone will say, yes!

In other news, I just received a package of Daisy Janie's Tilly and I have to say, I am seriously in love with this fabric!! I was happy to make a few things for Jan's Quilt Market booth back in October, and as a gift she sent me two gorgeous bundles. One for me and one that I'll be offering in a giveaway here soon! The yellow floral is my absolute favorite...

I also received these new notebooks. Aren't they pretty? One of my goals is to be much more organized with my orders, ideas for projects, and ideas for this blog this year.

The first thing on my list is to turn all of my hanging wips, into some exciting new finishes!! I guess I better stay busy, there's a lot of them!

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered this past weekends giveaway! From the 828 entries that came in before 10pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment # 229, Lucy @ Charm About You!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings, I will be in touch shortly!

Wishing you all a warm and wonderful start to a new week!

A Sponsor GIVEAWAY : :

2012-01-13T09:00:00.067-05:00

First today, I really need to say how overjoyed I am by the amount of sweet words you all left me yesterday on my Improv Block! Thank you all so much!!! Creating that block on a whim like that was the best sewing decision I've made. It made me realize that "just going for it" is what this year should be all about and showed me what I can do with my own quilting. Plus, making it was really so much fun! And, that feels so great, too! Thanks again, friends!!

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It's time for a new fabric giveaway!

My sponsor The Little Fabric Shop has a fabulous selection of Designer prints, patterns and trims! The shop is run by Angie, a stay-at-home mom who has dedicated her life to loving her children to pieces, and to providing a reliable fabric service at The Little Fabric Shop. Angie loves fabric and wants everyone to have the opportunity to fall in love with fabric too. Her goal has always been to provide beautiful designer prints at reasonable prices. New fabric collections arrive weekly, so be sure to visit The Little Fabric Shop!

Website * Blog * Facebook

The Giveaway Prize : :

This week Angie is so generously offering a Just Wing It Layer Cake by Momo for Moda Fabrics, to one lucky commenter! This layer cakes includes 42 10 inch fabric squares of the complete Just Wing It collection. Isn't it pretty? I love the fresh and bright colors! It's just perfect for some fun Spring and Summer sewing!

Aren't they beautiful!

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Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. (one entry) If you want, you can let us know one thing you hope to try/make this year! (one entry)
2. Follow The Little Fabric Shop on their facebook page. Just let me know that you follow "like" them by making a separate comment to record that entry. (one entry)
3. Followers of my blog or Facebook page get an additional chance, as well! Just let me know that you follow me by making a separate comment to record that entry. (one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, January 15th. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or an anonymous commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you, should you win!

Thank you all and a huge thanks to The Little Fabric Shop!!!

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Good Luck and have a great weekend!!!

Improv Blocks -- I Love You : :

2012-01-12T09:24:00.003-05:00

I finished up two more scrappy patchwork blocks yesterday by early afternoon. I thought I was done sewing for the day and had planned to share them today. I made some tea, and then I had an idea that I had to try right away! With my tea in hand, I headed back up to my room, I did a little sketch, and then I started piecing.

I know that my other scrappy patchwork blocks are considered improvisational quilting, but this felt SO much different. It was the most fun I have ever had sewing! I couldn't believe it was coming together just how I had hoped. And, it looked good? And YES!, I was doing it all on purpose! LOL

If I wasn't working from just my scraps, it would have been much easier, that's for sure. Finding enough white-ish colored scraps for piecing around my girl was a challenge. I used every last one! Good news, I still have a few more Bottled Rainbow Quilt Blocks to make, so I should have a few more soon.

My new (new) plan is to have this block be the bottom left corner of my Scraps Quilt. So, the quilt corner she's holding becomes the quilt itself?

Now I am wondering if I should just leave this as a mini scraps quilt and keep my other all scrappy patchwork? I am quilting as you go, so it's already quilted. I would just have to figure out how to finish off the back if I were to leave this a mini? And, I am seriously in love with improv quilting now, so this certainly won't be the last time I make something like this. What do you think? What would you do?

I wish I had better pictures to share today, but it's a dark and rainy day here, so these are all I have. I look forward to hearing your thoughts! I really appreciate all the comments on my scrappy progress post from yesterday! You guys are the best!!

p.s. I have a giveaway (here's a peek) starting tomorrow, along with a few others throughout the next couple of weeks in celebration of my two year blog-iversay on January 30th!!! Be sure to stop by for a chance at some gorgeous bundles of fabric!!

Take care, friends! ♥ Maureen

Scrappy Progress Pics { and a little rambling } : :

2012-01-11T10:08:00.003-05:00

I had so much fun, working late into the night on my Scraps Quilt. I had shared this photo below on my facebook page last night and got some wonderful positive feedback, which felt so great!! And, I have almost two more blocks finished since these were taken.

This project is just so perfect for me right now, I am really loving it. As someone who admittedly struggles with quilting, I feel like I am finding my quilting niche with this project. And that feels really great!

I've learned, in these last almost two years of sewing, that I am not a pattern follower. I've tried and I just never get it right. I'm that way with sewing, knitting, cooking... It's really best for me to just read the directions and then go for it without following the rules exactly, but to just use them as I guide. Most of the time it works, or it forces me to create my own patterns and projects, which is good. But sometimes it's a little frustrating, too.

There are some patterns that I really, really want to tackle this year -- Anna's 241 Tote pattern, a Swoon Quilt, and lots of Jeni's Lined Drawstring Bags, to name a few. I know I'll get to them eventually!

Today, the scrappy mess and progress continues!

I'm linking up at Freshly Pieced for Wip Wednesday! How about you, what are you up to today?

Happy Wednesday, friends! ♥

Noticing : :

2012-01-10T09:12:00.002-05:00

I was really excited to read that so many of you are loving the tangerine and teal as much as me. My hubby even noticed the stack and commented that they were "nice." YES! Pillowcases here I come! Finally. I've been hoarding my Outfoxed with hopes to turn them into new cases for us, but since my stack from yesterday has a few in there, I think it's meant to be! I already have a lampshade that will match perfectly, too!

Yesterday, I made my first birthday crown orders of the New Year and I'm finally getting ready to re-list them in my shop. While I "worked," I took notice to a few things myself...

-- My little studio collections. I guess I have never shared all the different things I do collect here. There are quite a few indeed, but that deserves a separate post. These are my clothespins, spools, and some of my needles. They looked so nice yesterday sitting in the sunlight.

-- How much I love my new Anke Wechmann calendar. I should probably open it to January, eh? It's just so pretty!

-- That I subconsciously match my surroundings. alot. And I'm not sure if I do this before I begin working and choose fabrics to match me? Or that I know what I'll be working on/with, so I dress accordingly? Either way, it definitely, accidentally, always happens.

And today, I plan to make some major progress on my Scraps Quilt. I haven't touched it since Friday night when it looked like this. I was trying to catch some pretty light coming through my favorite window, but I'm sad to say I missed it.

My new plan is to make 9 large 20" x 20" (ish) blocks. I will be quilting as I go since they'll each be different and so very, super scrappy.

I'm hoping for a great sewing day! How about you?

Color Love { and a Giveaway Winner! } : :

2012-01-09T09:35:00.001-05:00

I've been reading everywhere that Tangerine will be the color of 2012. What do you think, do you like it?

Personally, I am loving it! Especially the combination of tangerine + grey + teal + black! I am seeing these colors everywhere on Pinterest.

images via pinterest

I combined this past weekend's giveaway bundle with my favorite bundle of Lotta Jansdotter's Echo Collection and it makes me so happy! My husband really likes them, too - Yes! I may have finally found my bedroom fabrics!

I still love grey with any and every color. And, I've always loved black.

So, what do you think? Is tangerine & teal the new red & aqua?

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered this past weekends giveaway! I loved reading all your inspirational quotes, scriptures, stories of the things that keep you positive, and I appreciate your willingness to share them here. From the 503 entries that came in before 10pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment # 225, Jezibels ~ sproutbabysprout.blogspot.com!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings, I will be in touch shortly!

Wishing you all a new, wonderful week!

A { Thank You } GIVEAWAY : :

2012-01-06T09:10:00.004-05:00

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How about a Giveaway today!!!

Randi at Fresh Squeezed Fabrics puts together such beautiful custom fabric bundles. She offered this tangerine and steel bundle as a fat 1/8 set giveaway on the FSF facebook page a few weeks back and it really caught my eye! You can check out more of her bundles right here.

This month begins the Fresh Squeezed Sew Alongs for 2012 that Randi is hosting on her blog, i have to say... The sew-alongs will take place on the 2nd Tuesday of each month and will feature a fun project -- some will be simple and perfect for beginners, and some will be more advanced, designed to up your skill levels.To get all the details, you can visit Randi here! I think it sounds super fun! And, I got to help create the button! :)

Today's giveaway Prize!

A gorgeous fabric bundle from Fresh Squeezed Fabrics featuring fat quarters from a few of our favorite designers. You will receive one fat quarter of each of the following prints:

PR206, Bryant Park Collection
Lina in Rugged Suede, Echo
Scissors in Tangerine, Half Moon Modern
Paisley in Steel, Half Moon Modern
Foliage in Outsmarted, Outfoxed
Foxglove in Outsmarted, Outfoxed
Chevron in Steel, Half Moon Modern
Leaf in Tangerine, Half Moon Modern

I have this bundle myself, and it's perfect!

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Enter to Win!

Here's how,

Simply add a comment below. In light of my sharing post from earlier this week, I'd love it if you'd be willing to share a quote, scripture, prayer, book, song, movie, hobby, or activity... that helps you stay positive or gets you through your own struggle.

I heard from so many people who were touched by the comments and stories that were shared here this week and I thought it might be nice to share something uplifting, without asking you to get too personal.

Please, enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, January 8th. Mr. Random will pick the winner and I will announce their name this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or an anonymous commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you, should you win! I learned that many of you are a "no reply" commenter when trying to reply to your comments from the other day. Please check to make sure you can be contacted!

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Wishing a wonderful weekend to all!!!

Scrap Therapy : :

2012-01-05T12:30:00.006-05:00

First, today I need to say thank you! I am so overwhelmed by the comments and emails I continue to receive still today. Every word you've left me as a comment or in the amazing emails you took the time to write me, are so helpful and encouraging that I was brought to tears several times throughout the day. I really don't know how to begin to explain how much what I shared yesterday has changed me or how to begin to respond. But I plan to! It just might take a little while. In the meantime, please know that I am so touched by your kindness, your own bravery to share, and your willingness to pray for me more than I could ever say! Thank you so very, very much. Thank you!

Several weeks ago I dreamed of making a pillow just for me. The plan was to use the pretties below, which are some of my very favorite fabrics. I love all the colors and how they make me feel. I had fallen in love with this Starburst Floor Pillow design, so the plan was set. I began cutting and piecing, without paying much attention, and once finished I realized I had cut all my pieces exactly the same. Big. Huge. Mistake. Oops! I tossed the pieces into my fabric basket and quickly they became buried.

Then yesterday, after reading Rachel's plans to host a scrap attack quilt-along, I decided this is just the thing I need -- getting to use up my scraps, while creating something fun, improv, and just for me! Well, that sounds just like the therapy I need right now. And, scraps? Oh, I've got em'!!!

The organized scraps...

Those jars didn't work for long! My scraps quickly advanced to a new level -- meet my basket o' scraps...

It's huge, messy, over-flowing, and ever-growing. And rooting through it just so happens to be my kids favorite thing to do lately. I did a little rooting of my own, which I have to admit is pretty fun.

A colorless solid, how did that get in here? :)

And, I dug out my scrappy mistakes and started making quite the scrappy mess!

I realize I messed up yet again on the center star piecing just now as I uploaded my photos. But I've decided that's alright. I'm going to just keep going with hopes that my imperfect, super scrappy quilt ends up being just perfect for me!

How about you, are you joining in the scrap attack quilt along? Or have you got other plans? I'd love to hear!

And again, THANK YOU!!!

Sharing : :

2012-01-04T09:08:00.002-05:00

First, thank you so much for all the comments and emails the last two days, you're all so very sweet! I hated to be so vague on Monday, but I wasn't sure how I should go about explaining the behind-the-scenes situation with me. It would have been easy if I shared more personal stories from the beginning of this blogging adventure. But since I decided this would just be a positive, Creative Journal for myself, I never knew quite how to segue into any of the struggles/negative things I have been going through, throughout these last two years of blogging. I am still not sure? I am, however, certain that we ALL have our own struggles. Be it financial problems, relationship difficulties, health and personal struggles, loss... We all share that fact. Just as we share our love of beautiful fabrics and yarns, and our creative plans and projects. We all make a choice to share these things we see as beautiful, along with our passion to inspire and enjoy that which we love and have in common with one another. After spending almost two years sharing all of those things, today I need to share the other.

Are you still reading? o.k. here it goes...

-- Throughout these last two years, I found out that I will be living with a few different Auto Immune Diseases. I am on a thyroid replacement medication and a gluten free diet because of them. Now that enough time has gone by since I started my diet, I feel so much better. It's not an easy diet. If you are gluten free, you know this. But if you are gluten free due to allergy or intolerance of gluten, you know how much better it feels to be living gluten free. It's SO worth it!
-- I found out more recently that I have type 2 diabetes. It's not bad to the point where I need insulin, but I currently do need medication and have chosen to restrict my daily carb and sugar intake to almost nothing as a way to try to improve my status. I truly believe this will help!
-- And finally, I found out even more recently that my Immune System is attacking my own skin. "It" has a name, but to avoid any of you googling "it" and becoming horrified, I'll keep the name of "it" to myself. Why is this happening to me? We have no idea. We know it's not from the above. That's all. Which means lots of more tests for me. I have been on medication since Dec. 1st and the appointment I wrote of Monday was to see if it was working, or if I would have to begin Chemotherapy Immunosuppressant drugs, as well. Which could/would be awful! My doctor said, in strange Dr. analogy talk, "It's chipping away at it now. If you go on the Cellcept or Cyclosporine, it will hammer at it, if you go on the Methotrexate, it will be like taking a sledge hammer to it. With stronger meds, comes much worse side effects. It's up to you." Me, "Chipping away is fine." :)
-- The good news, chipping away at it is working, maybe not as fast as the other options, but it's working and I am tolerating the medication just fine with few side effects. That might not always be the case, I'll revisit my need to change that every 30 days at a new appointment. Today, I take comfort in knowing that none of the things I have are contagious. I can continue hugging on my loves a little more than they like. I can continue to make my handmades and can continue to share them with others.

-- The bad news -- None of these things are curable. Do I get upset and angry that I am 30 and have these things - yes! I want so badly to feel good and be healthy. Am I struggling with my vanity - Yes!! Most of my body is covered with marks, which are healing as scars and it stinks! Am I scared that I might get them on my face - YES, terrified!! Could it be SO much worse -- yes, yes, yes!!!
-- I have a husband and three children and family and friends and a cat that love me. Who see me looking at my hands with worry and know just how to help me. I know that my attitude, whether good or bad will have a major impact on ALL of them. So I know I need to stay positive. I believe that despite everything, I love my life! I believe that prayer is powerful! I believe that continuing to share this creative journal for myself will help me stay positive, focus on what's beautiful, will keep me learning and growing as a creative person, will help me heal, and might inspire others like me! I believe that I needed to share these things today and I believe that everything will be o.k.

-- If any of you can relate and/or are dealing with Auto Immune disease please feel free to comment if you feel comfortable or email me at maureencracknell@hotmail.com I'd love to chat, learn from your own situation, offer support, or exchange yummy gluten free recipes!
-- My blog is not taking a big personal turn. I promise! Please keep following!! :) Your support, encouragement, and positive energy keeps me creating and blogging! I've got big plans for 2012!!

If you made it through all that. Thank you!! I feel a weight lifting and am so excited to get sewing today! I promise to have something new to share tomorrow!

Much love, Maureen

2012 Wishlist : :

2012-01-02T11:45:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a safe and fun New Year! I had planned to start this new year off with a big blog post about what my goals will be for 2012. I've got quite the list of things to work on and some exciting, good news to share - today. instead. I'm sharing a fun mosaic full of the items on my studio wishlist. I don't know about you, but beginning anything for me ideally starts with a nice, clean organized space, bursting with colorful inspiration...

* my pinterest wishlist *

* anke weckmann 2012 calendar *

* anthro dresser * owl switch plate * ikea storage * balloons print * cashmere *

* chicken coop bins * measuring tape trim * AMH Pearl Cotton *

* spools * Donna Wilson Meg Plate * Loulouthi dress form * tulip fabric *

Coincidentally, my studio wishlist goes quite nicely with the fabric wishlist I put together last week for the Bloggers Bundle Competition. I see a shopping spree in my future...

Tomorrow I'll be away for the day. To a Dr.'s appointment where I'll find out what January and possibly the next several months might look like for me. I decided to keep the doom and gloom about some things I've been dealing with for many months now private, for the most part, and I still want to for the time being. But today, as we begin a new year and as I am so close to beginning my 3rd year of blogging, hooray! -- I just want you all to know how much having this place means to me. I want to keep it my happy place and I really, really want to keep sharing my passion to create here with all of you, as frequently as I do.

Happy Monday, friends! ♥

New Year's Sale Stashing : :

2012-01-01T15:06:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year, friends! With this new year comes some major house cleaning sales in our favorite online fabric shops! I thought I'd share the ones I'm noticing today...

Moona Fabrics Sale - For a limited time, get great deals on LouLouThi and Innocent Crush by Anna Maria Horner, DeLovely by Cosmo Cricket, Coquette, Hyperreal Garden, Bespoken,Nature Elements, Lace Elements, Bohemian Soul, Oval Elements, Modern Affair and Dreaming in French by Art Gallery Fabrics, Meet the Gang by Marissa and Creative Thursday, Desert Bloom by Jane Dixon, England Swings by Rebekah Merkle, Just Wing It! by MoMo, Grand Bazaar by Patty Young and many others. This awesome sale is limited to stock on hand. They're clearing the shelves for some fabulous collections coming in this Spring!!

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The Intrepid Thread - Julie always has an amazing selection of sale fabrics in her shop. Currently she's offering great deals on Meet the Gang by Marissa and Creative Thursday, Loulouthi by Anna Maria Horner, Little Apples by Aneela Hoey, and Moroccan Mirage by by Khristian A. Howell for Anthology Cotton Quilt Fabric just to name a few!

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Cotton Blossom Farm Fabrics - has a a very colorful sale section with the gorgeous and bright Gypsy Bandana Collection by Pillow and Maxfield currently on sale!

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Pink Castle Fabrics - Brenda's shop always has a great reduced sale section full of variety, as well! I noticed some colorful, graphic Riley Blake prints, some Sweet Mary Jane in pretty Spring colors, and some super clearanced Joel Dewberry in her shop this morning!

Brenda is also hosting a super fun event -- A Bust Your Scraps Quilt Along! What’s that? You don’t have scraps? You are still new to quilting? No worries! The Pink Castle Fabrics shop scraps are OVERFLOWING! Brenda will be making bundles for sale and giveaways!! Visit Brenda here for all the details!

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The Little Fabric Shop - Prepare yourself for some serious cuteness! Angie's shop is jam packed full of the cutest fabrics around, including her sale section! In The Little Fabric Shop you'll find Riley Blake, Moda, Michael Miller, just to name a few!!

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Skye Reve Fabrics - Natasha is bringing in the New Year with a coupon code sale! Use code "NYE2012" TO GET 20% OFF! She has new arrivals including Ruby by Bonnie and Camille, Sugar Hill by Tanya Whelan, and The Woodlands by Khristian A Howell to name a few. And a great Sale section on both her website and etsy shop!

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Happy New Year and Happy Shopping!!!

In 2011 : :

2011-12-30T15:51:00.004-05:00

I put together a little mosaic including some of my handmade shenanigans from this past year. Shortly after starting, I was finding it hard for me to choose -- it has been such a wonderful year of making for me! To help, I decided to create my mosaic ROYGBV style!

This year creating and blogging has been such a joy for me! As my two year blog-anniversary is quickly approaching, I feel so grateful to have this place and so many wonderful blogs to follow! I am inspired by all of you!! I've been spending lots of time dreaming up projects for the new year and am looking forward to seeing all your lovely creations, as well!

Wishing you all a Happy New Year
and happy making in 2012!!!
~ Maureen ~

Inspiration For A New Year Of Sewing : :

2011-12-28T11:01:00.001-05:00

I thought it would be nice to share a few photos of recent pins and photos I've saved for a little sewing inspiration for 2012. All are from Anthropologie, my most favorite site/store! The things I own from Anthro are my absolute favorite possessions, but besides that, I find it such a source of creative inspiration in making my own handmade items. I have a folder on my computer just for adding the amazing images from their site that I want to remember. I thought you might all find these beautiful stitched up items inspiring, too!!

How about you? Do you have a favorite place to find inspiration for your own crafting and making? Please do share!

Fabulous Fabric Bundle Competition { and a Giveaway Winner! }

2011-12-27T09:37:00.002-05:00

I hope you all had a fantastic holiday!!!! Tonight is actually the big Christmas party on my side of the family, so I'm not yet ready to do any kind of post holiday recap. I am however ready for a little sewing time, but that's not happening yet either. So, today I have something else to share...

Last night while scrolling through my reader, I saw something exciting and very share worthy -- A new competition is just beginning! A Fabulous Fabric Bundle Competition hosted by Laura at QuokkaQuilts and sponsored by Fat Quarter Shop.

I wasted no time and got right to work on mine! You all must know how I love joining in these type of events by now! I'm always such a fan of these colors together, so I didn't have to spend too much time thinking about that. And lately, the more I see Domestic Bliss, the more I love it, so I started with two of my favorites from that collection and before I knew it, I was finished! What do you think?

The rules ask you to go to The Fat Quarter Shop website and choose 12 coordinating prints and 3 solids from their selections. I simply created a new folder on my computer and started saving the fabric I loved. I didn't stop at 15, I chose more like 30 and then made some cuts. I used Big Huge Labs Mosaic Maker to create my fabric bundle mosaic, choosing 4 columns and 4 rows. Because that makes 16 photo slots, I simply added the Fat Quarter Shop logo to the the bottom right corner. Here it is for you, if you'd like to do the same thing. I have a thing about symmetry and balance, so I think it helps finish off the mosaic nicely. And look, my fabric selections match it! :)

Now you have the opportunity to choose and potentially WIN not your own Fat Quarter bundle of fabric, but a WHOLE HALF YARD of 15 fabrics of your choice - 12 prints and 3 solids, courtesy of the wonderful Kimberly at the Fat Quarter Shop. To read all the info and rules, please visit Laura at QuokkaQuilts! I can't wait to see what everyone else comes up with!

And now, a Giveaway Winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered, I'm so glad you all liked our Impressions 2 Giveaway!! From the 865 entries that came in before 10 pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment #224, Amy@Crafty Monday!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings!! Both The Intrepid Thread and I will be in touch.

Thanks again!!!

A Sponsor GIVEAWAY : :

2011-12-23T08:58:00.002-05:00

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It's time for a Giveaway!!!

My sponsor The Intrepid Thread is a family owned and run business. They carry Fat Quarters, Half Yards, Yards, and Yardage, as well as patterns and embellishments. Their designer fabrics include many of our favorites -- Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry, Anna Maria Horner, Riley Blake, and Aneela Hoey just to name a few! The owners work extremely hard everyday to bring their customers the best fabrics, at the best prices, with high quality customer service!

The ladies behind The Intrepid Thread wanted to do something extra special for this holiday weekend, leaving me the honor of offering some brand new beautiful fabrics to give away!!!

The Prize!

The Intrepid Thread is generously offering the blue and teal colorway of the brand new Impressions 2 Collection by Ty Pennington! That's thirteen Fat Quarters of these gorgeous designs!!! You can view this entire new line in their shop right here!

Aren't they beautiful!

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Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. (one entry) If you want, you can even let us know what your new favorite fabric line is?!
2. Follow The Intrepid Thread Blog. Just let me know that you follow their blog by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)
3. Followers of my blog or Facebook page get an additional chance, as well! Just let me know that you follow me by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Monday, December 26th. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or an anonymous commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you, should you win!

Thank you all and a huge thanks to The Intrepid Thread!!!

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Good Luck and have a great holiday!!!

Colorful Christmas Dresden Pillow : :

2011-12-22T10:48:00.006-05:00

With this last Christmas pillow, phew, I am done! And I can happily say that Christmas-y goodness can be found in nearly every corner of our house this year.

For this pillow I made a large colorful dresden using a few new fabrics, but it's actually made up mostly of the large scraps that were left from several projects I have finished and shared here these last few months.

When I look at it, my eyes wonder around each fabric piece that make up the circle and I think of all of them -- my bottled rainbow quilt blocks, my daughter's Little Red costume, the apron I made for my sister in law, the stockings I just finished, and scraps left from my other Christmas pillows.

I fussy cut the center medallion, that to me looks like a colorful, lovely snowflake and went with an aqua snowflake fabric to finish off the back.

I think the scalloped shape of the center mimics our other favorite holiday pillow quite nicely!

Tomorrow I'll be hosting a four day giveaway for some brand new gorgeous fabrics, sponsored by The Intrepid Thread! You can take a peek here at the bundle!

And with that, I want to wish everyone the Merriest of Christmas's and a wonderful holiday weekend!!!

Tilly Update : :

2011-12-20T09:13:00.001-05:00

Remember my Tilly Dresden from back in October? Well, I thought it would be fun to share a little update on this project, since it was one of my very favorites from the year!

Jan, Daisy Janie, had asked me a while back to make a few flower themed items for her Fall Quilt Market booth and of course, I was over-joyed and said, Yes! I received the gorgeous fabrics and got right to work!

My contribution was a large Tilly Dresden Pillow front, Jan finished it off, and I made these Tilly fabric flowers from the scraps. I am still planning a tutorial for these, I promise! It seems like a better suited idea for Spring, don't you think?

Doesn't her booth look fantastic!

Jan took some beautiful photos of the items I made herself, and I'm excited to be able to share. You can see many more of this pillow here and of her other Tilly pillows here. They are all very inspiring!

And, how beautiful is this window shot!? It was nearly impossible for me to choose just one to share today. You can see why for yourself right here.

I'll be having a Tilly giveaway here sometime soon! So be sure to keep an eye out!!

Colorful Christmas News : :

2011-12-19T09:33:00.003-05:00

This weekend there wasn't much time for sewing, except for the little bit of time I found late Saturday night to begin one last Christmas sewing project. I had stashed a few more holiday prints last week -- some Colorful Christmas, along with a some Hooty Hoot Jacks. All are Riley Blake, all from The Little Fabric Shop!

I hope to make up a few little bags for my son Jacob with most of these. He is a collector of all sorts of little things and I think he would especially like these Jacks fabrics!

I'm still deciding what to do with my colorful Christmas dresden? I scrapped my original plan and now I am thinking a large floor pillow would be fun to have. I'll be sure to show what this becomes later in the week, or possibly tomorrow!

These little hands will be here for just three weeks! I plan to squeeze and hold and tickle and love on this little girl as much as I can up until that very last moment!! Little hands, there's nothing better!

Did you see the Pink Chalk Studio Handmade with Love Holiday Tutorial contest? About a week ago I discovered it and decided to enter some of my tutorials from the year and guess what?!? I am SO excited that my Holiday Garland Pillow made the top 15!!!

My pillow is in the Deck the Halls category. There are some super great tutorials in the final fifteen, so be sure to check them out! And now it's up to the readers to determine the winner in each category and the grand prize winner. Pretty please take a minute to go vote for your favorites in each of the three category. Voting ends this Wednesday!

Wishing a Happy Monday to all!!!

Happy Weekend {and a Winner!}

2011-12-17T10:22:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! I am sure you're all very busy today!! I have SO much planned today myself. On Monday I asked the question in my giveaway post, "I'd love to know what your favorite thing to make for holiday decorating is?" Your answers were sweet, with many stories of family traditions. I am big on traditions, too. We have several of our very own and the crafting traditions we do together are still my favorite holiday moments. Thank you for sharing yours with me and for visiting this past week!

During the week, I shared a new holiday decorating craft of my own each day. A new Funky Christmas pillow, an embroidery hoop Glittered Snowflake Mobile, another new Christmas Bunting Garland, and my first go at Quilted Christmas Stockings. I hope you might take a moment to check them out! We've certainly had a lot of fun with our Christmas making and decorating this year!

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who just found my blog this past week and to those of you who entered my giveaway! I read on the Sew Mama Sew Facebook page last night that 535 bloggers participated in Giveaway Day, that's pretty amazing! I'm so glad I joined in!!! From the 1143 entries that came in, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment #986, Tamie! I hope you enjoy your Sherbet Pip winnings! I will be in touch shortly! For those of you who still dream of stashing a Sherbet Pips bundle, my sponsor Skye Reve Fabrics has them for a great price right here!

Thanks again everyone!!! Happy Weekend!

Quilted Christmas Stockings : :

2011-12-16T10:54:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we had such a wonderful day celebrating my little girl's birthday! Thank you for all her birthday wishes! We also spent some time together in my sewing room stitching up these quilted Christmas stockings for my brother and his fiance.

I had never made stockings before, but I found it really quick and fun. I even made a felt pattern to tuck away for any matching stockings they may need made in the future. :)

The fronts are quilted, with a layer of soft, cotton batting and the insides are lined. That was definitely the trickiest part for me. I had to think carefully of how I would need to do that... Yes, the lining needs to be inside out on the outside, right sides facing, with an opening for turning... It gets confusing for me. How about you?

The backs are both finished in the Cheery Circles Dots prints by My Mind's Eye for Riley Blake. I picked up both from my sponsor Pink Castle Fabrics -- they're still available right here for a great price!

The fronts are made up in a simple scrappy patchwork with some polka dot prints, some of my favorite Little Apples prints (on sale here :) and a little of my new favorite, Sundae in Ruby!

I think two more may have to be made before Christmas -- one for Kevin and one for me!!!

Christmas Bunting Garland : :

2011-12-15T09:24:00.001-05:00

Come on in... Yes, crafty folks live here!

Well, at least I hope this newest new bunting/garland hanging strand of colorful, Christmas-y goodness explains that well, just as you first enter this house.

To make this one, we used some adorable store bought felt, fabrics, yarn and sweater ornaments, bias tape, and Christmas fabrics.

I recently picked up a triangle template at Joann, which made making up these triangle bunting pieces so quick and easy!

I think this marks the end of garland making for me for the rest of the year! I might have to do a little re-cap, but I do believe that there is a different garland hanging in all but the kitchen, the bathrooms, and our bedroom. This last one, Haila and I made together! Sort of...

And, now it hangs happily in our hallway.

Haila asked if this little angel could be her's or her or both? Of course, I said yes!

After all, today she turns FIVE, you know!!

We're off to continue the Christmas crafting today and to celebrate our little girl, who suddenly seams much too big!

Glittered Snowflake Mobile : :

2011-12-14T08:22:00.001-05:00

When I first saw this snowflake mobile on Posie Gets Cozy, I had to have it! And then I heard that little whisper, "Maureen, don't do it. You can make something similar. Don't spend the money, it's not even free shipping...." So... I convinced myself that I could whip something up, with some things that I had on hand. And, then I decided it should be sparkly, too!

I had originally set out to make this a simple tutorial of sorts, laying everything out for careful picture taking and instruction writing. But oh was this project anything but simple! If you've ever attempting to make a mobile like this, then you know! I actually have made something similar and had completely forgotten what a pain it is to get a mobile balanced. So therefor, a tutorial just wouldn't be right. For such a simple idea, it was so challenging and I won't be making another ANY time soon!

In case any of you are still interested, after that uplifting intro :) -- For the basic how-to, you'll need a variety of wooden embroidery hoop sizes (you'll only use the center circle of each hoop), string, scissors, and lots of sparkly or paper snowflakes. I pretty much tied on every snowflake ornament I had. I do love the sparkle!!!

The only thing left to add now is some handmade paper snowflakes of our very own and I think it will be perfect!

A pain in the butt to make, but still pretty!!!

A Funky Christmas Pillow : :

2011-12-13T08:27:00.003-05:00

Just after finishing up my orders, I decided to make yet another Holiday Garland Pillow -- this one's for us! The kids love this pillow, they really do, so I was happy to make one of their very own. I am sure it gets annoying to watch 99% of what I make head out the door this time of year and I think they handle it so well!

I put together a very simple tutorial right here, if you're interested in making your own. I think this new scrappy one is my 6th and will be my last! I have so many ideas that I am afraid I won't be getting to this year. There is just never enough time!! Is there?

Lately, Lily isn't ever too far away from me. She's such a sweet girl! When my son had the 24 hr flu the other day, she laid with him all day long. She even followed him into the bathroom each time! She either has an amazing sense to want to comfort or each day she decides which one of us will be sitting most the day and makes her decision. Ha!

I tired to get photos of her batting at my needle. It was the first time she ever did this! It made me so nervous, my gosh! In this photo she just looks completely upset that I woke her.

I made this pillow of all my ribbon, ric rac, and felt scraps lying around. I think it looks festive and fun!

I finished the back off with some of my cute Riley Blake fabric with mittens, hot chocolate & snowflakes. I love this fabric!

It's a little funky, but we like it!

* * * * * My Sew Mama Sew Giveaway is happening all week right here! * * * * *

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day!!!

2011-12-12T09:15:00.003-05:00

It's Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day today! Where you can hop from blog to blog, entering to stash some terrific prizes and find lots of new great blogs to follow! This year I decided to join in and offer some sweet Sherbet Pips!

The Prize!

For SMS Giveaway Day I wanted to offer something winter-y and holiday-ish that could be used to make something this season for decorating or gift giving. This fat quarter bundle includes ten prints of Aneela Hoey's adorable illustrations. I love mine! I'm hoarding them until I decide on just the right project.

Aren't they sweet!

Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. I'd love to know what your favorite thing to make for holiday decorating is? I love reading all of your ideas! (one entry)
2. My followers get a second entry! Whether you follow me here or on Facebook, just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry. (one entry)

That’s 2 possible entries! Enter now through 5 o'clock pm (EST) Friday, December 16st. I will announce the winner in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or anonymous commenter, please remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Thank you so much for stopping by!!!

A Handmade Giveaway!!!

2011-12-09T09:06:00.000-05:00

Today I am joining in with Where Woman Create's 12 Days of Giveaways! Beginning on December 1st and continuing until December 12th. Each day will feature four fabulous artists who are giving away four fabulous prizes EACH DAY on Where Women Create. Best of all, there will be 12 winners!!!

I was so honored to be invited to join in! There are some really lovely artists and designers offering some pretty wonderful gifts! And, since most of you who visit me here are sewists, I have to mention that if you take the time to scroll through the last several days of the Giveaways at WWC, you'll find offerings from some of our favorites -- Jennifer Paganelli of Sis Boom, Patty Young, Riley Blake and so many others!

Today, I'm offering the festive Quilted Stripes Christmas Pillow above and a $25 Gift Certificate to my etsy shop for the winner to use towards anything ready to ship, made to order, or if you have seen something here that you'd like me to make for you -- I'm open to that option, too!

Is it sad that I had to rely on an early morning sewing photo my seven year old took of me this past Summer as my head shot? eek!!! Anywho...

Enter to Win!

Here’s how it works,

You can enter each day at Where Woman Create by simply posting a comment with your answer to their daily holiday question on that days post. They will keep the comments open on each post until December 13th at Noon (MST), but you may only comment once on each days post. Where Woman Create will choose the winner of my giveaway, along with the others, and everyone will be notified by December 17th!!

Thank you and a huge thanks to Where Woman Create!!!

Holiday Knitted Garland : :

2011-12-08T09:36:00.004-05:00

Today I want to share one of my very favorites ways to make garland! I started making these a few years ago, right after I learned to make a knitted I-cord. I've given a few away as gifts and I've kept a few for our own decorating.

This is my very first. A winter themed garland full of snowflakes, winter birds, icy blue felt balls, pom poms, and wooden buttons. It fits in nicely with the snowy theme we have happening in our dining room. I have a second one in the doorway.

This is a more recently made one, that I shared a peek of the other day. It's full of Cristmas-y colors, purchased ornaments, snowflake needle felted wool balls, clusters of wool yarn that are made up of my scraps, crochet snowflakes, even some crochet stars that I picked up a few years ago at an antique store. You can simply stitch on anything you'd love to see in a garland. I just used a matching colored thread to the knitted I-cord, spacing my little ornaments out evenly along the strand. Simple and fun!

This is my very favorite corner in our house right now. I added some of the pillows I have for sale in there just for good picture taking sake. :) One of them I will actually be giving away tomorrow as part of Where Woman Creates 12 Days of Giveaways!! If you haven't checked this out yet, you really must! Some really great designers are offering some really great gifts!

If you'd like to make your own I-cord garland -- this is a great video I just found for knitting an I-cord with 3 stitches. The instructor in the video is using two double pointed needles, I prefer to use my circular needles. Remember the trick is that you never turn your work! It's fun the way you knit, knit, knit, slip... you'll see!

The Making : :

2011-12-07T10:53:00.000-05:00

I can honestly say I have never sewn so much in my life! I've decided to leave the small quarters of my sewing room for now and to occupy our dining room table for the remainder of Christmas making days. It's quite a mess, with piles everywhere -- the finished, the almost finished, and the not yet started!

This is my new favorite style of the Birthday/Pretend Play Crowns -- simple and sweet!

There seriously are felt flowers everywhere!!! And, thank goodness I have two little helpers that fight over getting to do the cutting with my GO! baby. They really are a huge help! I hope I won't get in trouble for reveling that. ; ) Trust me -- all the money I do make goes to them and more one way or another! :)

I really can't wait to cut into these a little more! They are a recent stashing from Skye Reve Fabrics, the Bonnie and Camille Ruby Sundae prints in all six colors. I love, LOVE this print!! I used a little on finishing off the Flower Pillow above and in the making of Haila's Little Apron. I can think of about a 100 other things I'd like to make with them, and I can hardly wait.

How about you, what are you working on these days?

Nine : :

2011-12-06T13:08:00.001-05:00

Our handsome and silly boy turns nine today. Nine. Nine? Nine! It seems impossible, but yes it's true. Happy Birthday to our sweet boy!!!

This Weekend : :

2011-12-05T09:48:00.002-05:00

This Weekend was exactly what I needed!

- I worked on last weeks orders, spending all of Saturday, enjoying the Harry Potter marathon with lots of popcorn, cocoa and my favorite little people.

- My little photographer took pictures of me, taking pictures of him. It went on way too long and now my memory card (all 16gb of it) is full! :)

- We got our tree!!!

- I got to play dj, with the sounds of Christmas being sung by my favorites -- Elle Fitzgerald, Ingrid Michaelson, Bing Crosby, KT Tungstall, Pricsilla Ahn... while Kevin and Haila worked their magic with the Christmas lights.

- My boys danced and entertained us all afternoon with their usual goofy antics. ♥

- We got a visit from our little piggy friend, Abner!

- We all felt the spirit of Christmas. Yes, it's here!!

- I have no doubt now that real friends are made through this blogging thing we all do and love! I thank you for showing me your support by visiting me here and by leaving me your sweet words that make me feel wonderful and special and keep me creating day after day. Thank you, friends!

Today, I'm wishing you all a beautiful start to your own week!!

Happy Weekend!

2011-12-03T10:11:00.002-05:00

I'm having a new sale this weekend! Enter SAVE10 as your coupon code to save 10% on anything in my shop. Plus, I am including a free pillow insert with any purchase of a Ready To Ship Pillow Cover!

I'm hoping to have a happy and productive weekend! And, I'm wishing all of you the same!!!

It's Beginning : :

2011-12-02T09:19:00.002-05:00

We're finally beginning to get out the Christmas decorations. How about you? You're probably already all done! I usually am, but our trip has me behind on everything -- gift making, gift buying, birthday planning, orders, the decorating, the laundry... And so, the plans I had, again this year, for our Advent Calender just didn't happen. I actually bought one, I had to!

We've been experiencing some strange weather here in North Western Pa and for the fist time that I can ever remember, I am missing the snow! If you follow me on Pinterest, you might have suspected this already by my recent pinning. Well, we've decided to bring on the snow in forms of garland, paper and glittery snowflakes, icy blue ornaments, candles, and vintage milk glass.

We're just beginning, but we have big plans!

Is there anything better than Winter candle light? I don't think so!

How funny is it that just a couple of months ago this same pillow felt like the beginning of Fall to me?

I just finished this second one and now this same same stack of fabrics is feeling so very holiday-ish!?

The red...

The green...

Yes, yes...it's beginning!

Welcome Sponsor STITCHED!

2011-12-01T09:01:00.001-05:00

Today I'd like to introduce you all to STITCHED, presented by artist, designer and blogger Alma Stoller. STITCHED is a collection of 20 online video workshops by 20 talented fabric artists.

Each workshop provides you with high value and high content information

to get you sewing, designing and creating 20 unique fabric art and sewing projects.

In addition to the 20 workshops, you will also have access to a video workshop by Alma Stoller called Beaded Fabric Jewelry and 5 additional mini workshops.

All of the workshops are hosted in a private site. A fun place to share, learn and create.

STITCHED has received the support of several sewing, quilting and craft companies.

They have provided Alma with a wonderful assortment of sewing items.

Within the STITCHED site, Alma will host giveaways for the STITCHED students....everything from sewing machines, fabric packages, sewing and embroidery notions.....just to name a few.

The STITCHED 2012 instructors are:

Registration for all 20+ STITCHED workshops
will be $89.00. For more information
about STITCHED please visit : :

almastoller.blogspot.com

A Pillow Sale : :

2011-11-30T15:03:00.001-05:00

Thank you for making my last holiday sale a huge success!! A new one is beginning right now! I am offering a free pillow insert with any purchase of a ready to ship pillow cover from my shop. I have just ten different, one-of-a-kind pillows available at the moment.

Thank you all so much for supporting me the way you do, whether it be by vising me here and commenting or by purchasing my handmades. I am so grateful for my crafts and to have this place to share now more than ever! Thank you, thank you, thank you all!!

Celebrate Color { Voting! }: :

2011-11-30T09:00:00.004-05:00

Today marks the end of the Celebrate Color event hosted by Rachel of Stitched in Color, along with Emma Lamb, Mollie of Wild Olive, and Shannon of LuvintheMommyhood. As promised it was packed full of color and crafting inspiration, tutorials, and of course, contests and prizes during these past three months. I loved it for many reasons, but mostly for bringing fiber artists of all kinds, be it embroidery, crochet, knitting, quilting, home decor, and clothing all together to share and inspire each other.

I was thrilled when Rachel asked me to put together a little tutorial for a project geared towards little helping hands. As a family, we spent a weekend back in late September, just as the leaves here were turning, putting this Felt Leaf Garland Tutorial together to share here and as a guest post for Celebrate Color.

Throughout September, October, and November I made sure to have at least one item to enter. Carefully choosing what would fit the theme of celebrating with projects in full color.

In September, I chose to add both my Simple Children's Scarf (tutorial here) and my Fall Fox Pillow. I was overjoyed to learn that my Innocent Crush Fox had been chosen as a finalists and ended up winning second place in the Home Decor category that month!

In October, I entered two different items in the Wearable category. Which I truly couldn't believe myself. I am not a garment sewists at all! My only explanation would be that after Rachel's Bloggers Pillow Party, I just felt like I needed to do more than to keep making pillows. I entered my Fall Owl Tote, which I love using, and of course, My Little Red Riding Hood costume. Little Red made the finials in October, and again I took home second!! I let my daughter, Haila pick out her own flannels as our prize for some new pj's!

Now here we are at the end of November, the third final month of what turned out to be such a wonderful event to follow and join in. This month I entered my new Half Dresden Pillows in the Home Dec category and My Little Apron in the Wearables. To my complete shock and amazement, my apron was chosen as a finalist again this month!!!

I am feeling a bit of blissful deja vu, as I was a three time finalists in the Pillow Party, as well. I can not tell you how much this means to me!!! You can all vote for your favorites in all four categories until midnight tonight. Truly, I feel like I have already won!!

Thank you Rachel, Emma, Mollie, and Shannon, for creating such a wonderful event and for all the hard work and time you put into organizing the fun! And, Thank You for voting, friends! ~ Maureen

Aprons For All : :

2011-11-29T09:00:00.011-05:00

I am slowly making sure each female in my family has an apron handmade by me! Each are so different, since I try to match up the fabric selected and design with the style and personality of the Mother, mother-in-law, daughter, sister, sister-in-law, niece, or aunt who will be, hopefully, wearing them. I wish I would have gotten better shots of these two, but we were too busy cooking! What can I say...

This is My Mom's. It actually reversible! She lives here in town, so I plan to take some new, detailed shots very soon of this one. I really want to show off that other side!

It a pattern I am busy working on now. One I hopefully can offer for sale in 2012? Maybe??? I'm still thinking about it. It is actually a reversible half with a removable/optional, reversible full top. Say that 5 times fast -- sheesh!! :)

This is Suzie. My beautiful sister-in-law who happens to be an amazing cook. Really amazing!! She's so sweet too, she makes as many things as she can gluten-free so I can enjoy them, too! I made a modern wrap style half apron for her, using some of my favorite black, grey, red, and white fabrics. I added an extra long strap to tie around in the front and a little side pocket with a pop of teal trim. It's reversible, too, but again I missed out on getting detailed photos.

This was the dinner squad, minus me and two of my sister's (who may have been busy keeping those glasses full. :) It was clearly impossible to get anything other than action shots, it was such a busy day in the kitchen!

I love aprons! Wearing them, making them, gifting them. How about you?

A Sale : :

2011-11-28T08:54:00.002-05:00

Today I'm having a sale in my etsy shop! I'm sure you're all planning your Christmas shopping, I know I am, so I wanted to have a little holiday sale. I've never done one before, but having some money to pay towards our deductible after our accident, would be a relief. So please stop by and enjoy 25% off any crown of your choice!

Wool felt birthday crowns have become a tradition in our home, for my own children to wear on their special day. They're perfect for a little one to receive for their first birthday, to be worn on birthdays to come and other special days ahead of them. In addition to birthday celebrations, these crowns can be a wonderful touch for creative and imaginative dress up play. I love to work to make each crown personalized to fit each child's needs and interests -- Customize with specific colors, a name, or a theme. Just convo me with your request!

Just use the discount code: SAVE25 at the checkout!

Thank you for your support!!

Half Dresden Pillows : :

2011-11-23T09:04:00.000-05:00

Even though I am on vacation, I just can't go without sharing what I've been up to here. It's become such a regular part of my day now, one that I really look forward to, that I just can't help myself!

Friday, the day before we left Pa, I finished up these two pillows for my Aunt. They are gifts for her two best friends that she exchanges gifts with each Christmas. She asked for blues, green, and yellows for both of them, and I hope they are a big hit!

Have any of you stitched up a dresden yet? It's quickly becoming one of my favorite things to do! I have a dream of turning all my stashed Anna Maria Horner fabrics into a dresden quilt just for me.

I striped the other side with coordinating fabrics.

And finished the back off with a couple of blue prints that my Aunt picked from my stash.

How about you, what have you all been working on? I'd love to see!

This Week {and a Giveaway Winner} : :

2011-11-22T10:38:00.000-05:00

This week we are all feeling very thankful for each other, having a beautiful house to gather at while we celebrate the holiday, and are enjoying every second of having our backyard be a beach!

It's helping us forget this! Which was awful, I'm not going to lie. We have never been in an accident since having the kids. We were on an 8 lane right outside Fredrick Maryland, on the very far right lane of the road, so we weren't even watching for deer anymore. A huge buck crossed all the lanes to left of us and a median in the road, and just rammed into the front left side of our car at an amazing speed, and then it's body swung around and hit the driver's side door, crushing it inward towards my husband. We were hit so hard, our car was knocked into the shoulder of the road! It could have been so much worse, we know. But it was still pretty scary! This is what are car looks like after being pounded out a bit and having all the hanging broken pieces removed. I am so thankful we are all safe!!

And now, a giveaway winner!

Thank You to all of you who entered this past weekends giveaway! From the 889 entries that came in, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment # 398, The Twisted Sister!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings! Both Moona Fabrics and I will be in touch!

Thanks again everyone!!!

The Giveaway Continues...

2011-11-21T09:14:00.001-05:00

Good morning! My family and I are in Va Beach this week for a little vacation and to celebrate Thanksgiving with my family! On the way here, our car was hit by a huge deer, destroying the front left side of our car. We're all fine, but I am completely behind on everything! I decided to extend the giveaway another day so I can play catch-up.

I am hopeful there will be lots of fun, celebrating, eating, and sewing in the coming days!! See the post below for how to enter the giveaway and I'll be back tomorrow to call the winner!

Wishing you all a most wonderful day until then!

A Sponsor {Giveaway} : :

2011-11-18T09:01:00.002-05:00

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It's Fabric Giveaway Friday!

My sponsor Moona Fabrics is owned and operated by a mother/daughter-in-law team, both of whom are passionate about gorgeous fabric. They both love to sew, and their mission is to find the most beautiful and highest quality fabric out there -- and to share their finds with all of us! They get new fabrics in frequently, so bookmark them and visit often!

The Prize!

Moona Fabrics is offering a pre-release fat quarter bundle of the Taali collection by Monaluna! That's 7 fat quarters of these colorful, lovely designs! Monaluna fabric is made in India from 100% organic cotton and printed with AZO-free dyes. The fabric is a medium-weight poplin weave, making it ideal for quilting, apparel, and baby and kids’ items, as well as home accessories. The Taali collection, is an eclectic group of crisp, graphic prints inspired by travels through northern Europe and Scandinavia. These organic cotton prints are available for pre-sale now and will be arriving in the shop soon!

Aren't they sweet!

In addition, Moona Fabrics is offering a 5% off coupon code for the weekend.

The code will be FOXYPILLOW!!!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. You can include what you'd make if you won. I love reading all of your ideas! (one entry)
2. Follow Moona Fabrics on their Facebook Page. Just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry. (one entry)
3. My followers get a third entry! Whether you follow me here or on Facebook, just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry. (one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Monday, November 21st. I will announce the winner this Tuesday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or anonymous commenter, please remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Good Luck!!!

Thank you and a huge thanks to Moona Fabrics!!!

Hanging Around : :

2011-11-17T09:12:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I really took notice to all the projects I have yet to finish or to share here. They are everywhere! Things are crazy-busy here at the moment, and I am trying my best to get caught up. We're headed to the beach for Thanksgiving in just a few days, and my to-do list is voluminous but I have high hopes!

This will become two 18" x 18" half Dresden pillows - today! It's not another garland!

Two of my children are requesting that I get back into my felted dollhouse making. They miss it, so do I.

Totally cheating, I purchased this already felted tote bag when I ordered the felted wool balls for my Scrappy Garland. I am hoping to transform this very plain, blue wool bag into something spectacular. We'll see...

Here's a peek at those other aprons I mentioned yesterday, along with my own favorite apron (the tutorial for that is here.)

This IS another garland! Our living room has lots of red and since I've decided every room needs some sort of garland, something new and red felt necessary for Christmas decorating this year. I'll share more of this one soon!

Yesterday's crown orders, stacked up and waiting to be shipped. The request's coming in for these are getting funny. Bongo drums, dirt, and leaves -- I love it!

More house pillows waiting to be photographed and listed. It looks like there's a giant turkey on the loose! :)

A studio friend hanging around. Which makes it official -- I am not to ever be left alone in my room. It just isn't possible!

Today, I'm ready to get busy! Tomorrow, I'll be having a new fabric bundle giveaway, here's a little peek!

Wishing you all a most beautiful and productive day!

A Little Apron : :

2011-11-16T09:00:00.004-05:00

Monday morning while Haila was at school I began work on a little surprise present for her. I was planning to save it for her birthday next month or for a Christmas gift, but then yesterday I decided a Thanksgiving apron would be nice, too. So, with a beautifully wrapped present in mind for the design, I pulled some bright fabrics both new and old from my stash.

In order we have -- Spots in Blue by Kaffe Fassett, Kona Candy Pink, Garden Party Center Piece in Navy, Ruby Sundae in Lime, and Wasabi Cross Weave by Moda.

I finally used some of my beloved Garden party, but not too much! You know, I have almost every print stashed away. In full disclosure, once I began sewing after discovering Good Folks, I went through a major Anna Maria Horner hoarding phase! But, I'm pretty sure that's normal.

After revealing my surprise apron to my girl Monday afternoon, I insisted on needing to add three buttons down the front. She insisted that they must be pink. Well as it turned out, I was all out of large pink buttons? I still can't believe it! So, we made our own -- Felt embroidered buttons!

And, we stitched them on in a row yesterday during my sewing time. I think it adds a sweet, handmade, childish touch. Even though I made them. :)

Haila has her favorite. Which she happily pointed out as she said, "I think next time you should make them all like this one." Yes, yes, next time I will, I am certain there will be a next time! Depending on how much "helping" my girl does on Thanksgiving, for her birthday or maybe Christmas still?

You can clearly see here why these colors were necessary. It sort of pulls the whole outfit together, don't you think?! I wonder where she gets her love of color, hmn?

I'm so glad she loves it! I'll be entering this apron in the Wearables category of Celebrate Color this month.

I actually have two more aprons to share that I made over this past weekend, but they'll have to wait until next week when the ladies I'll be cooking with and I are together. It will certainly be a colorful kitchen! I can't wait!!

Fox ❤ : :

2011-11-15T10:18:00.006-05:00

I'm sure it's obvious by now that I have quite an affection for woodland creatures. It's true, I do! I am sure it has something to do with where I live and is no doubt influenced greatly by my children and their own love of the woods. But really, it's just because of the how absolutely cute I find anything woodland to be. It's a trend for sure, so I know it's not just me.

Yesterday I decided to make two new Fox pillows. My original pillow was a big hit here and won second place in the Celebrate Color event in September, so why not! I had sold my first one recently, so I figured offering this pillow in my etsy shop might be a great idea. I had to make a pink one!

And, a new one just like my first, too.

I finished them off with Hugs & Kisses, I love this print!

I'm also enjoying my new Outfoxed from The Intrepid Thread. I just can't decide what these fabrics should become? I am torn between pillow cases, for me! Or a new bag, for me! Or perhaps both? Yes, I think that might be best.

Lizzy's fox -- so cool!

And her hedgehogs -- so cute!

I'm linking up with Quiltstory today for Fabric Tuesday! Be sure to let me know if you're a fan of all things woodland, too! Happy sewing, friends!

Holiday Garland Pillow Tutorial : :

2011-11-14T09:00:00.010-05:00

Today's tutorial is for a simple festive Christmas-y pillow cover -- A Holiday Garland Pillow. This pillow was completely inspired by my love for garland. Using multicolored cuts of wool blend felt with scalloped edges and colorful ric rac to connect them, I created this pillow thinking it’ll be the perfect decoration to welcome another year of handmade goodness!

What you'll need : :

1 - Pillow Insert measuring 12" x 16"
1 - piece of quilting weight fabric or wool blend felt measuring 13" x 17"(today I'm using this fabric)
25 (give or take) pieces of wool blend felt cut into circles or the shape of your choice in festive holiday colors (to create my felt shapes I used my GO!Baby fabric cutter and this flower die)
1 package of ric rac cut into 5 - 18" pieces
2 - 9" x 12.5" pieces of fabric for the back of the pillow (today I'm using this fabric)
Sewing pins
Sharp scissors or a rotary cutter/mat set
Note * Click on any of my images for a larger picture

Creating the Garland Pillow Top : :

1. Using the wool blend felt colors, cut out 25 or so pieces in a variety of sizes. I am using a scalloped circle shape. Circles, triangles, ornaments, and Christmas light shapes are some other ideas that would work great, too 2. On the 13"x17" piece of fabric or felt, layout your felt pieces in five rows of five pieces, spacing them evenly, alternating sizes throughout each row

3. Place the ric rac strip on the center of each row and carefully pin the ric rac through the felt shape and the felt or fabric pillow top 4. Repeat with all five rows

5. Carefully sew down the center of each ric rac strip, removing pins as you go, to attach each strip of ric rac and felt piece to the pillow top 6. Once finished, use a ruler to square up the pillow top to measure 12.5" x 16.5" 7. Choose a coordinating fabric for the backside of the pillow. Cut two pieces measuring 9" x 12.5"

For instructions on finishing the envelope style back, please see my Quilted Stripes Pillow Tutorial here. The directions needed can be found in the "Sewing Pillow Together" section of that tutorial.

Insert the pillow form and Voila! You're done! :)

I had a lot of fun making this pillow, first with all felt and then with combining fabric and felt. I hope you do to!

And now... we have our Fab Felt Workshop and Felt Stack Giveaway WINNER!

First, I want to say a big THANK YOU to Craftsy for offering such a fun prize!! Thank You to all of you who entered, I'm so glad you all liked our Giveaway!! From the 644 entries that came in before 10 pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment #418, Kristie!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings!! Both Craftsy and I will be in touch.

Wishing a wonderful new week to all!!!

Be sure to let me know if you give my tutorial a go!

A Fab Felt {Giveaway} : :

2011-11-11T09:03:00.002-05:00

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

It's time for a new Giveaway!
A Fab Felt Holiday Workshop and Felt Stack Giveaway!!!

When Betz White asked me to participate in the blog tour for her new Fab Felt Holiday workshop on Craftsy, I was thrilled! I chose to make the Scrappy Garland and was so excited to share the wonderful project I had made following the workshop.

I have long been a fan of Betz's books, creative upcycling projects, and overall passion for being "green". She is such an inspiration to my own sewing and crafting!

Here are just a few examples of her holiday felt work.

I would also like to encourage all of you bloggers, sewists, knitters, and crafters to join Craftsy, if you haven't already. It's free to join and super easy! I recently joined myself just several weeks ago, you can find my page here, and I am so glad I did. It's such a great place to find project tutorials and patterns of all kinds, and to share your own, as well!

The Prize!

Today the folks at Craftsy are generously offering the Fab Felt Holiday Workshop to one of my readers! The giveaway winner will also get a colorful stack of my favorite wool blend felt that can be used to create the projects offered in the workshop, with plenty extra to incorporate into their own crafts! I have created a pin board on my Pinterest page called "Just For Felt" which is full of inspiration for felt crafting and sewing. Craftsy and Betz's blog are always full of both felt and sewing inspiration, as well!

You can take a peek at the Fab Felt Workshop below!

In addition -- Craftsy is offering my readers the Fab Felt Holiday workshop
for only $19.99, using this link to sign up!!!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. (one entry) We'd love to know what's your own favorite handmade thing to make for the Holidays?
2. For another chance, you can follow the Craftsy Facebook Page. Just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)
3. Followers of my blog or Facebook page get an additional chance to enter, as well! Just let me know that you follow me by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)

That’s three possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, November 13th. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Thank you and a huge thanks to Craftsy and Betz White!!!

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

Good Luck and have a great weekend!!!

Christmas Pillows 1-2-3 : :

2011-11-10T09:02:00.000-05:00

I had hoped to have that Felt Garland Pillow tutorial for you today to share along with this new Christmas Pillow, but I'm still working on it. Monday, I promise!!

Keeping with my current love of all things polka dots, I made this new Christmas pillow. The center fabric is Michael Miller's Tiny Trees that I picked up last year, the green polka dot is a Mini Dots by Riley Blake, and the brown polka dot is one most likely stashed from Joann's. If I am going to traditional Christmas red and green, I love adding in a brown!

For this pillow, I pieced the top, adding a red pre-made piping in between the tree print and the green polka dots. It's a simple thing to add and I really like the look of it! Next, I cut out a piece of muslin and batting just slightly large than the pillow top, pinned the three together, and then quilted the center using simple straight lines. Easy!

Here's a good look at that red piping. If any of you would like a tutorial for this one, I'd be happy to put a quick one together. Just say the word!

That makes three Christmas pillows now! Four, once I finish that tutorial. I've decided to add these to my shop, but if any of these pillows happen to inspire you or if you would even like to make the exact same one(s), by all means -- please do!

For more Christmas-y goodness, be sure to stop back tomorrow for a new really BIG giveaway -- a chance to win Betz White's new workshop, Fab Felt Holiday Crafts, sponsored by Craftsy. Along with a large stack of wool blend felt, sponsored by me! :)

Polka Dots and Felt : :

2011-11-09T09:00:00.004-05:00

I seem to be all about two things these days -- polka dots and felt. I love them both, it's true!! This colorful bundle quickly caught my eye! It's the 1/2 yd bundle of Kaffe Fassett's Spots from Moona Fabrics. Aren't the colors marvelous!! It took me two days to decide between the 23 fat quarter or the 12 print 1/2yd cut bundle. When I am not sure what I am going to use a fabric for, but I really, really want it, I always stash half yard cuts. That just works out best for me, being the crazy pillow making lady that I am. Fat quarters are just never enough. With that said, it was pretty difficult for me to pass up getting all those gorgeous colors that the fat quarter bundle offers. How about you, what do you prefer?

My felt arrived yesterday, as well! I ordered 16 new colors to add to those I already have and I am so excited! Since so many of you have been asking -- I purchase my felt wholesale, but if you're looking for purchasing smaller quantities, you can find this wool blend felt here, along with a pure wool felt and a bamboo option. The blend with a higher wool percentage works wonderful for sewing! I will be sending a very colorful stack, including a sheet of each color from my stash, to the winner of this weekend's giveaway for the Fab Felt workshop!!

I snapped this photo last night shortly after dark. I had truly forgotten how early we lose the light this time of year. It's funny how that effects us bloggers, isn't it? I'm going to have to make sure I take all my pictures much earlier in the day for the next few months.

This is the wall I look at while I sew. There's a lot going on here, huh? Everything is held up by a teeny tiny sewing pin. I like to have my wips where I can see them. There is a door to the right that my quilts in progress drape over and a dress form in front of that, that wears my aprons, scarves, and birthday crowns.

I has just pinned this polka dot, felt wip to the wall before I stepped back and decided I should take a photo. I forget to do that pretty often. I usually share the fabrics and then the finished item, not much in between. I plan to work on that, too!

And finally, I have a new Christmas pillow (number three) in the works. For this one I am combining quilting a favorite Christmas print of mine, with polka dot fabrics, and a bit of red piping.

I'll have more of this one, along with hopefully a quick tutorial for my Felt Garland Holiday Pillow, to share tomorrow!

Good Things : :

2011-11-08T09:15:00.002-05:00

Sorry for my absence yesterday! I had every intention of getting this post together in time to share just before I left for my Dr's appointment in Erie, but it turned out to be one of those mornings. You know the kind, where you feel yourself rushing around and moving in slow-motion all at the same time. Today, well I am feeling a little bummed about yesterday, so it turns out that it's great that I have this post full of good, stitchy things that are making me happy right now!

After my last Bottled Ranbows Quilt post, I've spent quite a bit of time thinking about how I'm going to finish off this quilt. It's been up in the air for me, going back and forth between adding some dark with grey sashing and quilting thread or keeping it light? I think either option would make me happy, but then I saw Angela's photo of this wonderful, colorful bunting fabric come through flickr and I knew that it would be the perfect fabric to finish off this quilt of mine. It arrived Saturday from Cotton Blossom Farm and I love it!

Here's the newest member of my BRQ family -- My Pink Flower Dance quilt block.

Realizing I am getting close to finishing this quilt, I think I only have four blocks to go, I decided to stash some new pretty solids. Possibly for a new quilt, but mostly just to have handy. I love seeing that stack of solids on the shelf! This is the Blogger Bundle from Pink Castle Fabrics.

This past weekend all of my sewing time, and then some, was spent making more Birthday Crowns. I think there are eleven here! I am expecting a HUGE wholesale delivery of new wool blend felt any day now and I can't wait to begin all the making! This Friday I am also planning an exciting new giveaway for a lovely stack of felt, along with a chance to win Betz White's new Fab Felt Holiday workshop, so be sure to stop back for that!!!

Today, I plan to take an easy and finally finish off a winter scarf for me!! This one has been on the needles long enough!

Happy stitching, friends!

Scrappy Garland -- Fab Felt Holiday Crafts : :

2011-11-04T09:00:00.004-04:00

Have you seen Betz White's new online workshop, Fab Felt Holiday Crafts on Craftsy? Well if not, I am here today to introduce you! I have both of Betz's books and was overjoyed when she asked me to be a part of her new holiday workshop blog tour! I chose to make the "Scrappy Garland" to share here today. If you visit me often, you already know I love me some garland! Really, who doesn't?

This one includes so much handmade goodness and so many things we all love --
felt (scraps - yes!), handmade pom poms, wool felt balls, jingle bells, and lots of COLOR!!

To make for easy garland picture taking, I hung my lovely finished strand from our fireplace mantle. Come Christmas decorating time (that's the weekend right after Thanksgiving in our house) the plan is to hang this in the doorway that connects our kitchen to our dining room, I'm already excited!

My favorite thing about this garland are the fun felt scrap pom poms that Betz teaches you how to make, as well as being able to add in our own handmade touches like these snowflake felted balls.

I also enjoy that with this workshop, once logged on, I am able to skip around from project to project, pausing when needed, and even am able to take notes on the screen. It's so user friendly, the kids were able to join in, were such a huge help, and loved the workshop, too!

My readers are invited to click right here to preview Betz's course and register for $10 off the course price! These online courses never expire and you can access your course anytime you want, for as long as you want. I plan on making a few more of these Fab Felt projects in the upcoming weeks and I'll certainly be sharing the end product here with all of you and on my own Craftsy page.

Be sure to check out projects made by the rest of the blog tour! Here is the schedule with a link to each project past and present : :

Week of September 26th: Wisecraft
Week of October 3rd: A Sewing Journal
Week of October 10th: House on Hill Road
Week of October 31st: Maureen Cracknell Handmade
Week of November 7th and 14th: Stumbles & Stitches
Week of November 21st: Elsie Marley

Thanks so much for stopping by!!!

Felt Garland Holiday Pillow : :

2011-11-03T09:00:00.027-04:00

This pillow was completely inspired by my love for garland. Using multicolored cuts of felt with scalloped edges and green ric rac to connect them, I whipped up this pillow thinking it’ll be the perfect decoration to welcome another year of handmade goodness!

The colors aren't traditional Christmas, but I think the overall colorful mix is perfect for celebrations or just brightening up a room, and can be used as decor beyond just the holidays.

The wool blend felt combined with cotton fabric make this pillow soft and cozy. I do like these two, very different pillows together as a set and paired with my new dollhouse pillow, too. Speaking of which...

I am working on some new! In all sorts of colors and designs. This one is very Fall! For those of you who do think I am crazy for being all about Christmas already, but are just too nice to say so. lol

I am also thinking of putting together a little tutorial for this Garland Holiday Pillow to share sometime in the next couple of weeks. What do you think? Anyone interested? : )

As part of Betz White's blog tour for her Craftsy.com Fab Felt Holiday Crafts Workshop, I'll be sharing one more Christmas project tomorrow -- a Scrappy Holiday Garland! I hope you stop back!!!

Quilted Stripes Christmas Pillow : :

2011-11-02T09:00:00.004-04:00

Is it too early for this? You can tell me the truth, really. I just hope you say, "No! Bring it on!"
I mentioned already that I have BIG plans this year for Christmas, so I really must start now. My plan is to make at least ~~three~~ two Christmas themed items a week between now and the big day. My list includes lots of pillows, garland, an advent calendar idea that I've been carrying around since last year, handmade gifts galore, etc...

This is my first item -- a simple Quilted Stripes Christmas Pillow. It's just one more variation of my Quilted Stripes Pillow Tutorial. I just changed the size of the stripes, but quilted, hand-stitched, and assembled it exactly the same. You can find that tutorial right here.

This pillow is made out of a recent stashing of Christmas Fabrics from Skye Reve, along with
red scraps left over from my costume making, as well a piece of scrap batting left over from my Bottled Rainbow quilt blocks.

The Michael Miller fabric with the strand of ornaments is my very favorite! This print also includes strands of Christmas tree lights and stockings, it's just perfect! I also love the addition of non-traditional Christmas colors like pink, aqua, and black. I've never really been just a red and green Christmas person. How about you?

I added some stitchy, hand-quilted lines of embroidery floss, just as I did on my original version. To break up the red and to add more of that soft, puffy, quilted goodness!

It feels so good to have one project down! I'm so excited about my plans, I hope that you'll enjoy seeing them and that they may inspire some holiday projects of your own.

Notice my second finished Christmas Pillow project in the photo above. I plan to share this one tomorrow!

Tuesday Inspiration : :

2011-11-01T10:53:00.001-04:00

Happy November 1st!!!

* Thanksgiving Print * Autumn Owl * Feather Wreath * Plum Clafouti *
* Blankets * Leaf Garland * Paper Bag Flowers * Pears * Felt Leaf Garland *

* Table Setting * Cinnamon * Fall Wreath * Fall Patchwork *

* or Pinterest *

To be honest, this past weekend I had already skipped right past Thanksgiving to begin this years ever-growing Christmas "must make" list. Today, I decided to slow down! This Tuesday Inspiration is all about Autumn, Thanksgiving, and the warm colors of this Season. I hope to start a new tutorial idea for a Thanksgiving sewing project sometime today. And, I'll have a few Christmas things ready to share the rest of the week!

I hope everyone had a Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween {and a Giveaway Winner} : :

2011-10-31T09:41:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

Unfortunately, two of my three kiddos (yes, my little red) are home sick today. Boo! We're about to head out to the Dr.'s and are all hoping to feel well enough tonight to make it around the neighborhood.

My "boo" hoop above was inspired by So Sarah Sews and Gwenny Penny, and my stack of fabrics and appliques below that were to be our Halloween bunting....Well, that just never happened. Instead, I spent this weekend's sewing time working on Christmas crafts! Yes, yes! And I'll have lots to share in the upcoming weeks ahead. I am planning a very handmade Christmas this year! How about you, are you ready for all the Christmas making yet?

Despite the running noses, sneezing, and coughing we had a good weekend.

I hope you did too!

And now... we have a Lark Giveaway WINNER!

First, I want to say a big THANK YOU to The Intrepid Thread for offering such an extremely generous giveaway!!! If you've fallen in love with Amy Butler's new Lark collection, you can find all the brand new colors and prints, in 1/2 yd and full yd cuts, as well as a large variety of bundles in The Intrepid Thread's fabric shop right now! Why you're there, be sure to check out their sale section -- Some of our favorite fabric collections including Anna Maria's Loulouthi, Lizzy House's 1001 Peeps, and Joel Dewberry's Heirloom, just to name a few, can be found at 30% - 50% off!!!

Thank You to all of you who entered, I'm so glad you all liked our Giveaway!! From the 1094 entries that came in before 10 pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment #211, eholst!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings!! Both The Intrepid Thread and I will be in touch.

Thanks again and Happy Halloween!!!

A Sponsor {Quilt Market Weekend Giveaway} : :

2011-10-28T09:00:00.016-04:00

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It's time for a Giveaway! A brand new, super exciting, special one!!!

My sponsor The Intrepid Thread is a family owned and run business. They carry Fat Quarters, Half Yards, Yards, and Yardage, as well as patterns and embellishments. Their designer fabrics include many of our favorites -- Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry, Anna Maria Horner, Riley Blake, and Aneela Hoey just to name a few! The owners work extremely hard everyday to bring their customers the best fabrics, at the best prices, with high quality customer service!

Right now the ladies behind The Intrepid Thread are in Houston for Quilt Market, leaving me the honor of offering some brand new beautiful fabrics to giveaway this weekend!!!

The Prize!

In celebration of International Quilt Market, The Intrepid Thread is generously offering the brand new Lark Collection in one colorway combo! The giveaway winner gets their chose of either the Glamour or the Dreamer bundle! That's twelve Fat Quarters of the gorgeous designs that make up the latest fabric collection from the super talented and popular Amy Butler!!!

Aren't they beautiful!

I am especially loving this Charisma print!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. (one entry) You can include which colorway you'd choose if you won. I'm curious to know what your favorite is!
2. Follow The Intrepid Thread Blog. Just let me know that you follow their blog by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)
3. Followers of my blog or Facebook page get an additional chance, as well! Just let me know that you follow me by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, October 30th. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Thank you and a huge thanks to The Intrepid Thread!!!

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

Good Luck and have a great weekend!!!

New Pillows : :

2011-10-27T11:19:00.003-04:00

Here I go bombarding you all with new pillow creations again. Well, I hope you don't mind! Besides more Birthday Crowns and my unfinished Halloween projects, it's all I have to share this week.

Last year this time, I remember being so busy making my felted dolls and dollhouses, preparing for my first festival and holiday orders. I am still hoping to have new felted items available this year, but had the urge after finishing up orders last night to whip up a sewn wool felt dollhouse pillow, just to see how it might come together??

The roof-top is quilted, with a layer of batting, so it's nice and sturdy. I kept the details pretty simple and worked from mostly the scraps laying around, but had lots of fun imagining all the things I could add if this one actually turned out -- fabric shutters, little birdies, a cat, embroidered flowers, and more hand quilting...

Wondering all the while why I haven't made one of these sooner?

My kids gave me two thumbs up this morning and asked if we could keep this one. So, what do you think? Should I make more?

And, from my tutorial for my Quilted Stripes Pillow, I received a request to make two pillows in browns, greens, and cream.

It's kind of funny having to follow your own directions. I'm glad I wrote those down. :)

I was extra happy in the end, when they worked!

Wishing you happy sewing and a wonderful Thursday!!!

p.s. There's a new fabric giveaway (here's a peek) happening tomorrow in celebration of International Quilt Market this weekend, please do stop back!

Tuesday Inspiration : :

2011-10-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

Black + White + Color

* Rainbow Patchwork Circle * Bedspread * Black and Color Frames * Patchwork Dress * Fiesta * Kei Honeycomb Dots * Methuen1964a * Pattern * Rainbow Brick * Patchwork Pouch

* A Pretty Perch * Patchwork Pincushion * Color Wheel Quilt Bundle *

* or Pinterest *

Lately I have been admiring the combination of a rainbow of color with black, and have been noticing it everywhere! I love the way bright colors look with black! How about you?

Late Saturday night after I finished up a few orders, I had some fun piecing together a stack of these patchwork stars. After making the Dresdens for my Mom's pillow, Daisy Janie's Quilt Market booth, and the little half for Haila's Little Red costume, I had been wanting to make more in different shapes, larger pieces, that would come together quicker. I cut a large triangle from a piece of scrap cardboard, started tracing, and cutting into a stack fabrics with black + white + color in mind. I really like the shape it made.

This one I added to some Moda Cross Weave in Wasabi to make a new pillow cover for my BF. The others I am hoping to make into my next quilt.

Again, I noticed a rainbow of color with black in this photo I snapped before wrapping up the orders I shipped out yesterday.

Today, I am wondering what a black or maybe even just a dark grey shade of sashing would like in-between all the colors that make up my Bottled Rainbow Quilt blocks? I realized only yesterday that because of how I have created a design within each block, that I can't have them facing any other way but this way? Which turns out to be different than every finished Bottled Rainbows quilt that I have seen so far.

I have one more row of blocks to finish and then I'll need to figure out how I am going to piece the quilt top together. Got any ideas? What do you think of adding a black or dark grey sashing?

Thank you in advance for your help! I'll be adding this post to this weeks Our Creative Space.
:) Maureen

Shades Of Blue {and A Giveaway Winner} : :

2011-10-24T09:16:00.001-04:00

As promised I have three new Bottled Rainbows Quilt Blocks to share today! My shades of blue.

This was challenging for me. I never realized before starting these blue blocks, how little true blue I actually have in my fabric stash and how little blue I use in my projects. This first, Indigo block is made up of the blues I have actually used. Since I think naming things always makes projects a little more fun and special, here we have ::

My Starry Night Block in Indigo.

My Snowfall Block in Ocean.

A a new favorite, my Flower Branch Birds in Turquoise.

And jusy for fun, some recently thrifted blue! I adore the pattern on these glasses. Isn't it sweet?

I also started collecting Pyrex in early Summer and have been meaning to share my pieces with you since. This is my new Snowflake Blue Mixing Bowl set. It's in beautiful shape and I absolutely love it!

How about you, is there anything you collect? Besides fabric, yarn, or craft supplies -- that's a given. :)

And now, we have a giveaway winner!

THANK YOU to Pink Castle Fabrics for sponsoring a wonderful giveaway!! Thank You to all of you who entered! I know that not winning is not much fun at all -- my apologies for that! So, good news -- I'll be hosting a "Quilt Market Weekend Giveaway" right here beginning this Friday for a gorgeous stack of Amy Butler's new Lark Collection!!! So, be sure stop back! I think a new giveaway is such a wonderful way to end each week, I hope you think so too!

So without further ado, from the 748 entries that came in before 10 pm, Mr. Random says our lucky winner is comment #375, Melissa!!! I hope you enjoy your winnings! Both Pink Castle Fabrics and I will be in touch!

Thanks again and Happy Monday everyone!!!

A Sponsor {Giveaway} : :

2011-10-21T09:00:00.004-04:00

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It's Friday Giveaway Day, Friends!

My sponsor Pink Castle Fabrics is an etsy shop full of modern designer and fun Japanese fabrics, owned by Brenda, a busy mother and quilter. Brenda is the president and founder of the Ann Arbor Modern Quilt Guild and blogs at Just A Bit Frayed. You can add Pink Castle Fabrics etsy shop to your etsy circle and/or favorites right here!

The Prize!

Pink Castle Fabrics is offering their custom bundle Ocean Sunset, a six fat quarter fabric set of gorgeous oranges and turquoise blues!

One lucky MCH reader will receive a fat quarter cut of each of theses designer prints : :

Aren't they lovely!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Enter to Win!

Here's how,

1. Simply add a comment to this post. Any comment will do!(one entry)
2. You can also follow Pink Castle Fabrics on their Facebook Page. Just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)
3. Also, my followers get a third entry! Whether you follow me here or on Facebook, just let me know that you do by making a separate comment to record that entry.(one entry)

That’s 3 possible entries! Enter now through 10 o'clock pm (EST) Sunday, October 23rd. I will announce the winner this Monday morning in a new post here on the blog.

* Note * This giveaway is open to EVERYONE! If you're a "no reply" or an anonymous commenter, remember to include your email address in your comment so that I can contact you should you win!

Good Luck!!!

Thank you and a huge thanks to Pink Castle Fabrics!!!

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

Sketchbook Quilt Top : :

2011-10-20T09:00:00.011-04:00

First, I want to say a huge thank you for all the sweet comments you left me here and on my facebook yesterday! It meant so much to me!

You may remember this little wip from my to-do list a couple of weeks ago. I had just received this Kona Grey that day and had every intention of checking this quilt top off my list first. I can't believe that it wasn't until yesterday that I finally got to it!

I waited patiently for the sun to shine for some good picture taking, but it just never happened. Around 5 pm Kevin held the quilt for me so I could snap a few photos to share today. Otherwise, I wouldn't have had anything and I have really enjoyed this project run I've been having here these last couple of weeks (or so), so that just wouldn't do! Forgive me, the pictures are quite dark.

Here are the other appliques that I never got around to sharing separately. They each have a special meaning.

My younger sister Catherine who lives in Hawaii (who first told me about blogs and helped me start this one :) is whom this quilt is designed for, as a thank you. I wanted it to be patchwork and scrappy with appliques. And silly and wonky and fun. I know it's busy and maybe even a little crazy, but that was all part of the plan. The idea is for it to be one big block, like a sketchbook page full of drawings, doodles, and scribbles. I am really hoping once it is quilted it will turn out how I imagine it will. Right now, I'm not too sure?

So there you have it! I don't care for this last photo much, this is definitely something that looks much better up close. Good thing it's quilt, right?!

To be completely honest, quilting truly just terrifies me. This is my second finished quilt top and I can't seem to get over second guessing everything I do and that feeling that I am just not good at this. How about you? Is there a sewing or crafting skill that you struggle with?

p.s. There's a new fabric giveaway (here's a peek) happening tomorrow, please do stop back!
And, for those plugging away on their Bottled Rainbows Quilt, like me, I'll have three new blocks finished to share on Monday!!! I know it's been a while. :)

My Little Red : :

2011-10-19T09:00:00.019-04:00

I finished up Haila's Little Red Riding Hood costume last night, so we had to celebrate with a quick photo-shoot in the yard.

Boy was it difficult to choose what photos to share! I realize there are alot, sorry! And even more here, not to mention a hundred more I didn't share. I have to say, we are both pretty thrilled with this costume!

I made the hood out of a faux velvet material that was already lined with satin on the inside, that I picked up on super sale at the nearest Joann. I traced one of Haila's poncho sweaters for the shape, adding some addition length. For the dress, just a simple patchwork, full apron style dress with some Denise Schmidt and a few prints from Pink Castle Fabrics. I included a little Dresden detail to the bib, since I have a bit of an obsession with Dresden's at the moment. : )

Oh, does it feel good to cross this costume off my to-do list! And, many thanks to all my Facebook friends for giving the photo I shared last night so much love. It made my night!!!

I just entered this costume of ours in the fabric wearables category of Celebrate Color. Wish me luck!!!

Tuesday Inspiration : :

2011-10-18T09:00:00.005-04:00

Black + Orange + Halloween

Photos via

* Halloween Print * Haunted House Cake * Pumpkin & Owl * Felt Plushies * Spider Cake

* Tree Pumpkins Bookshelf * Mice On Stairs * Vampire Pumpkins * Halloween Bunting

* Cookies * Leaves Print * Plates On Wall * Orange & Black Cake *

or Pinterest

Remember our tablecloth from last week that mysteriously looked like it had been chewed upon while packed away in the garage? Well, it's come a loooong way since then. Literally. Most of the damage was done to the outer black and white check gingham border, with almost all of the adorable pumpkin appliques still in perfect condition. After a good, couple of washings, I cut each applique out and salvaged what solid black material I could and got to work.

I begin piecing using those appliques, coordinating thread, my new Riley Blake Halloween Fabrics, and a very festive bundle of gorgeous orange and blacks.

I knew I wanted this runner to be on the large side, wide and long. I chose not to use batting because of the size. I didn't want it to look like an awkwardly shaped quilt sitting on our dinner table.

Soon I was finished and faced with my first dilemma -- how do you photograph projects this huge, in action? It's not easy!

These are my attempts at full shots. eek! If you notice all the marking on my table you'll understand the need for it to be this large. I have a lot of things to hide on this really old, very used table of ours!

Do you see why I just had to save it, aren't these appliques sweet! They really are my favorite part. Plus, the original tablecloth had been with us for many Halloweens and reminds me so much of when our boys were just little things. We had a Halloween Party (or several) every year.

And here you see my second dilemma. Lily hair. I've shared many times how she loves to lay upon my sewn things. Well, white long cat hair, on black fabric, on our dinner table, has me quite frazzled and annoyed and our lint rollers being refilled daily. Grrrrr!

Does she pick the cute kitty pumpkin applique? Nope.

Quite fittingly she has chosen the little devil pumpkin applique to be her spot of choice. Of course! I am kinda, sorta wishing I would have just made a quilt now instead.

How many days until Halloween?

I'm really not sure if me and this table runner will make it?! As for Lily? Yup, she's safe! Lucky for her, she does ridiculously adorable things like sleep outside my sewing room door like this.

Maybe I can convince her that she makes a much better doorstop than a centerpiece, hmn?

I plan to enter this new Halloween table runner in the Home Decor category of Celebrate Color and to make a new, matching bunting with the fabric scraps and remaining applique pieces.

How about you? Are you doing any Halloween sewing these days?