Antique Crazy Quilt

While in Florida, we visited a lovely little tea room at the urging of Jacqui Anderson...called the "Twisted Teapot". If you are ever near Winter Haven, Florida...check them out at 200 1st St. South. The food is great, the tea is wonderful...and the antique crazy quilt on display in the hall (framed under glass) is to "die for". It is worn and tattered in places but the hand embroidery alone is worth the trip!

Here are some photos we tried to get...the lighting is not so good in the hallway and the chandelier overhead doesn't help...but we were drooling all the same.

Florida Fun!

I had a wonderful time last night with the Ladies of the Lakes Quilt Guild in Lakeland, Florida. Such a productive group as there was a huge number of Show'n'tell projects to view during the meeting. Beautiful work and a lot of charity projects were shown...which really was special for me to see.

Then, they were so gracious during my lecture (and even snickered at my jokes).

Thank you ladies (and guys) for a wonderful time! Now, today and tomorrow a few will be working on a block with me in our one-on-one class events.

Winner, Winner!

We have a winner for Christen Brown's newest book: Beaded Embroidery Stitching

There were 33 comments...but, some were anonymous without any way to make contact...and some were repeats because the person might not have realized that their first comment did "take"...it just needed me to moderate.

So, after scrubbing the listing...we had 28 valid comments. Using the Random Generator...the winner was #18.

and, drumroll please...Lucky #18 was:

So, Magpie's Mumblings...just email be at shaw.kathy@yahoo.com to let me know you are ready for your free pdf book download! Congrats!

Beading Lovers Unite!

Wow, I'm in beading glory at the moment...just looking at all of the gorgeous photos in Christen Brown's newest book: Beaded Embroidery Stitching

Tons of eye candy for me to enjoy...and several Gallery items or projects that are so inspiring I just want to get up and bead something...but can't put the book down long enough!

The beaded bracelets are especially catching my attention. But, I also want to do one of the beaded tassels. Decisions, decisions! All of the general and project instructions are clearly written with great how-to photos...even a novice bead enthusiast would love this book!

So, my best advice is to RUN not walk to the nearest quilt shop for this book. Or, just sit at order online at C&T Publications or on Amazon...don't wait!  Congrats Christen on another super book..this one is sure to be a favorite! I know it will be on my bookshelves for years to come!

To celebrate the launch of Christen's wonderful book...some stitching pals are having a Beaded Embroidery Stitching Blog Tour and Give-Away. If you leave a comment to my post about the book (see below), you could win a free E-book download of Christen's wonderful book!

Same goes for the other bloggers...so you can click on each link below...and leave a comment. That will increase your chances to win the E-book download!. I'll draw a name from those leaving me comments tomorrow afternoon and post the winner on the blog! Then, you'll need to email me so that I can get the book to you...instructions about that tomorrow.

Here are the other blogging buddies excited about Beaded Embroidery Stitching as much as me!

POSTS:
April 8 - C& T Publishing
April 9 - Allie Aller
April 10 - Me ;)
April 11 - Laura Wasilowski
April 12 - Judy Gula
April 13 - Brian Haggard
April 14 - Christen Brown

If you can't wait to see if you might win a drawing...just hop on over to C&T and order the print version of this book...seriously, you will not be sorry to have done so!

Crazy Kites

Doesn't this look like fractured glass!

It's the "crazy" version of my new pattern Crazy Kites. The design is available as a traditional quilt AND crazy quilt...in the same pattern. Just hop on over to Shawkl.net to get the download pdf pattern today!

I'm thinking that this would be a great pattern to do totally SCRAPPY as well...since there could be over 200 patches of unique fabrics that way. So, going to being making "kite blocks" with scraps as I get them (yes, I already have tons...but you know how they multiply!)...and when there are enough blocks...BOOM, I'll assemble as a crazy quilt. That gives me loads of new blocks to embellish as well! With the new book launching in a few weeks...that will be super convenient for new seams!

Blocks in this pattern are suitable for paper piecing as well...super fast!

A New Friend

We've had a new friend around here for a few weeks. Started with just quick visits, then he hung around enough that brother could pet him at times.

With the cold weather, I ordered him a "house" (litter box with lid) from Amazon...and fitted it with a thick towel and a fleece blanket. He is not snug, well fed...and totally at home. Yesterday, I put a flea collar on him with no problem...not sure if he was a pet before; as he was a bit wild at the start. But, he has certainly been handled before as he likes to be picked up and get head rubs.

The cat box is a corner model but it also comes in a standard square style. It has a hinged door, which I removed because he was not so "sure" about that. It is turned facing the house on the porch, so doesn't get any direct wind...put when it was really cold this morning; he slept with his hind foot over his ear (at least I think that is why he was laying in that position).

Getting Ready for Retreat

My 5lb box of "stuffing" came today...and I've boxed up all of the door prizes!

Silk Ribbon Cabochon Kits - $5 each

Hi everyone!

I'm working on some upcoming class projects (not online classes)...and have extra "kits" available if anyone is interested in giving this a try.

The "inside" is a glass flat-back cabochon. The backing is felt and the tie-tack is included in the kit. The silk ribbon is white, but you can easily dye it or ink it with markers to add color.

Here's my version:

But, you could actually do anything you wanted on the front...assuming you wanted to change up the design.

At just five dollars for the full kit...you could have a fun day with a few friends as you created these. Full color instructions, glass cabochon, fabric, ribbon, etc. (see above listing) included. All you need to provide is some E-6000 glue, chenille needle for the ribbon, and standard sewing supplies to create these. They take about an hour from start to finish...not including the drying time for the glue. ;)

Just email me if you are interested...how many...and I can send you a PayPal invoice to your email address. 

Hugs!

A Must Have for Stitching..

There are two things that I consider "MUST HAVE" for stitching...and they might surprise you. First is a good pair of reading glasses...and there are dozens at my house in varied strengths, because each has a specific purpose. I had Lasik surgery a few years back so my vision is now 20/10...which is excellent for walking around, driving, etc. but not so good for reading, computer work, or stitching. But, rather than the $300 plus glasses I did wear before surgery...I know buy dozens of pairs of reading glasses at the Dollar Tree for $1 each.

The second "MUST HAVE" is a good light. A magnification light is even better than having a standard lamp when I'm stitching tiny motifs.

This is my lamp, it's the LightView ProXL model from Brightech. You may have heard of this company, but I have to say that I had not...but loved the look of this specific light and the fact that is was a 2 in 1 model. It has a section that is removable, making it shorter...and suitable for sitting on a table; or left in the lamp is an excellent floor height.

As you can see, it works wonderfully next to my recliner. This is where I stitch most afternoons or evenings.  I have a standard lamp for reading, but need the extra light my magnification lamp provides for stitching. Especially for beading!

If you'd like to check out this lamp (or other house/craft lamps) from Brightech...here is the link:

https://brightechshop.com/?a_aid=5bb347846a212

While they have various models, and I'm sure that they are all good options depending on what you prefer...here are some things about this model that I like:

… the base is really heavy, but also has an extra "stabilization" bar to keep it from wanting to tip over.

… the arms are jointed firmly so I can move the lamp head even slightly and it stays there...doesn't want to "droop" as with some previous lamps I've owned.

… the magnification LED light is large enough for me to see what I'm working on clearly. Here is the light with the mirror closed.

… and here is the light with the mirror opened.

...the view is clear.

So, if you are in the market for a great magnification light...check this and the other models out at the link above.

10/25/18 Edited to add:
"Still loving this magnification lamp! So heavy, never tips over...great light!"

Hugs,

Hexagon Quilt Nearing Completion

The Hexagon Quilt if nearing completion. I have the "partial side blocks" added and the basic border on. Now, I'm adding the first layer of lace trim. Then, I'll add more beads, etc. to sections in the center...maybe a few more seams. I like to let the project "speak to me"...so, we'll see where that leads.

Sewing down lace can be calming...and boring. ;)

ANNOUNCEMENT: Crazy Quilting Retreat Sign-up

1st Annual Crazy Quilting Retreat
"Stitching Crazy"
8 -- 11 February 2019
Arrive Friday afternoon, depart Monday morning

$325 per person ($100 deposit/$225 final payment)
Includes ALL Lodging and Food Costs
Includes 2 lectures/classes by myself (Silk Ribbon Class for sure, the other is still be "thought about)
Includes plenty of free time for one-on-one instruction
Includes plenty of free time for stitching your own projects (or working to finish the class projects).

I'm certainly open to any ideas for the last class...or anything you'd like to share.
I want this to be fun as well as informative!

Space is limited (21 folks maximum). Must pay deposit to hold a spot. 

Payment should be made via PayPal to shaw.kathy@yahoo.com

Final deposit payments due by 12 November 2018.
Final total payments due by 12 January 2019

Travel is participants responsibility

Location: The Red Rooster Retreat
Address: 2140 Cty Rd 870, Crane Hill, Alabama 35053
Website: http://www.theredroosterretreat.com/



I hope you can come and join me...especially you Southern ladies that can drive. Crane Hill is located near Cullman, Alabama...so it's easier to find that on a map. ;)

(10/12/18) EDITED TO ADD:

Here is a list of the Attendees with deposits paid, so their space is reserved:

1. Kathy Shaw
2. Paula Brown
3. Ron Brown
4. Sharron Abrams
5. Diane Conine
6. JanDee Abraham
7. Diana Abraham
8. Kathy Billings
9. Cindi Renaldo
10. Elizabeth Isam
11. Carol Ann White
12. Debbie Lay
13. Pam Naugher (pending)
14. Thearica Burroughs
15. Lydia Talton
16. Michael Talton
17. Kay Ecker
18.
19.
20.
21.

2019 Crazy Quilt Calendar...available on 1 October...

The 2019 Crazy Quilt Calendar is ready!  It'll be released on October 1st!!! To find out more...go check out Pam Kellogg's blog.

The 4 seasons cover design is by Shirlee Fassell.

January - Betty Pillsbury
February - Suzy Quaife
March - Kathleen Klein
April - Nicki Lee Seavey
May - Karen Guthrie
June - Pam Peugh
July - Sandra Visser
August - Brenda Sandusky
September - Angela Grasse
October - Lisa Boni
November - Heather Brighton
December - Linda Steele

I was fortunate enough to get an early copy for review, and THE PHOTOS ARE GORGEOUS! The works are all inspiring. Well done to the stitchers...and to Pam for putting this together. Don't miss out...mark your calendar to get this on the 1st of October! Then, write all of the dates for the Shawkl Design Studio course registrations in it! ;)

Hugs,

Today's finds...

...in my rural part of the world. There are not any JoAnn's, Hancock Fabrics, etc. here. We don't really even have a Walmart...with fabric close by. Even the closest store if over 20 miles away..but, no fabric. There is a Hobby Lobby about 30 miles away...but, it is limited too when it comes to "embellishing" supplies at times.

So, most of my purchases are usually online. However, today...my friend Francis decided to try and shop a little close to home. There is a little "hole in the wall, Mom & Pop" fabric store about 9 miles from home. It is just one of those metal fabricated storage buildings that they stocked with remnants from the cloth mills around this area...then about ten years ago, the mills all closed as the trade was moved to Mexico...and this little place has continued to keep those old fabrics. She also adds some new ones via her sales connections. She stocks a little bit of everything...cottons, upholstery, felts, flannels, faux fur, laces, buttons, zippers, etc.

Sometimes you luck out...and sometimes you don't.

Here is what we "couldn't live without" today. ;)

First off, some more green DMC perle cotton...cause really, "Can you ever have enough green?". A pkg of chenille and pkg of tapestry needles because her prices were just so good. Some laces, like the colors but have no specific project in mind.

Okay, I know that this is hard to really see. But, it was in the corner...all folded up; FELT in a lovely light peach. It felt and looked beautiful...and I walked by it 3 times as it just kept calling to me. Have not quite worked out what I want to do with it...but, brought a yard home just because. ;)

The owner has been listening...and how has about a dozen "batiks" in stock. These three just said "Under the Sea" blocks to me, so had to of course give them a new home. Now all of the above items were clearly impulse buys...as I didn't come into the stop looking for them at all. Here's what I was really looking for...upholstery weight fabrics for crazy quilt project quilts.

This first one is for a set of blocks (colors are deceiving in this photo)...but there is a lot of greens, golds, oranges, browns, etc. Definitely thinking "Autumn". The "brown" above is really a very rich deep orange...a perfect match to the fabric in the center of this section of the block sample I've done. So, SCORE...success for one project.

Next, I found this gray-blue upholstery solid for the border of my hexagon quilt. These are the last few loose blocks (easy to carry and match fabric with)...but the quilt will actually be squared-off when the portion blocks are also included. The upholstery will become a solid border, with lace included on top.

I'm thinking that this smoky blue with lace will be excellent! My goal is to finish this quilt for the Show'n'tell section of our February Retreat! Got to have goals and milestones to accomplish, right!

Lastly, I picked up this little blue/green/pink little floral print. It reminds me of the older flour sack fabrics...but the quality of the fabric is much better...and it sill be a border for a series of cross-stitch Easter Egg mini-quilt blocks. 

So, a pretty productive day...considering I was shopping basically in a "storage building". ;)

BCQC-1 is Open for Registration

The Basic Crazy Quilt Course is open for registration. Check it out here...

https://shawkl-classes.blogspot.com/2018/09/basic-crazy-quilt-course-bcqc-101-is.htmlhttps://shawkl-classes.blogspot.com/2018/09/basic-crazy-quilt-course-bcqc-101-is.html

CQ - Finishing Tips

This is the beginning of a new project. The blocks are diamond shaped, and I've pieced a small corner section using two different approaches...same pattern/colors (except for some embellishing).

The section includes one diamond (center), Small Corner triangle, Top Triangle, Side Triangle. I've inverted the second finished section so both of these would fit in one photo.

The section on the left is pieced in a traditional way...using 1/4" seam allowance and machine piecing. The section on the right is pieced by machine just for the individual blocks. These are then backed with fabric, similar to how an English Paper Piecing quilt would be.

Here is a photo showing the back fabric used. The advantage of this approach is that when all of the patches are backed...then sewn together; the quilt could be considered as "complete". The disadvantage would be that it is all hand work...so if you don't enjoy that; it's not the approach you would want to pursue. 

Neither of these units have any embroidery on the connecting seams. These are just done for examples. But, I still need to decide whether or not the "real quilt" done by this pattern will include work on the connecting seams. Hugs!

HEXAGON QUILT - Edge Blocks

The blocks are now all pieced...six half-blocks and six quarter blocks (or close to a fourth size)...all ready for seams.

I have one more full block to finish embellishing, than can move on to these. Might be packing these up to take to my quilting retreat with friends the end of this month.

Amazon Surprise

I like to check my book listings on Amazon every now and again, just to read the comments left by those that purchase them.

This morning...look what I found:

C&T Publications and I have not even finished the final edit yet...although I did approve the cover art...so Amazon is really on top of things! The release date is in April...although they have 7 May, so we shall see...but Amazon is already taking pre-orders. How crazy is that!

I will have a few copies on my Etsy Shop when the book is printed...so no rush to order (unless you think you'll forget or that I'll run out)...but what a weird thing to find it listed already!

NES - Band #1, Rows 1-4

Here's my progress so far in the Never Ending Sampler stitch-a-long cross-stitch project. The design is presented in rows and is free to participants. If you want to give this a try...you can find it at Pam Kellogg's blogsite. Pam is also preparing pdf downloads which will soon be available for folks (like me) that like to work from a paper pattern rather than have a tablet or computer handy. There is also a Facebook group documenting their progress...for more eye-candy. You can read all about that on Pam's blog as well.

I'm stitch the design on black 14-ct Aida, with sz 20 cording by Lizbeth (found on Etsy). The color variation is "Vinyard Harvest".

The photo really does not do justice to the true Black of the cloth or the sheen and beauty of this thread...which is almost like a braid than a twist cotton.

Hexagon Quilt: Block #16

The center flowers are "yo-yo's" created with wide silk ribbon folded over (gold and blue ones) and 13mm seam binding gathered. The kitten is another machine embroidery applique. Most of the seams of these last four hexagon blocks are from the Fancy Seams book.

ICQC-104 Open for Registration

The Advanced Motif course is open for registration today. Check the Shawkl Classes blog (link at top) for instructions on how to sign up.

Hexagon Quilt: Block #15

The beaded cabochon was created from a Czech Glass Button with the shank removed. The tiny hummingbird is another machine embroidery patch.

Hexagon Quilt: Block #14

The little center scene was a photo scanned from a landscape magazine and stitched over. The bunny in a machine embroidery patch (I'm loving using these...saves me so much time!)

Hexagon Quilt: Block #13

I've been stitching the seams in Crazy Quilting Volume III: Fancy Seams books for the Facebook Group Modern Seams...and using my hexagon blocks (and others) as the canvas. That has helped me to finish up a few more of these to add to my existing quilt in progress. Here is Block #13:

The little lamb is a machine embroidery patch. The center tulip is done in 13mm ribbon. The lace butterfly was a gift (machine embroidery lace) to me by Phyllis Latham in Oklahoma.