Want it, Need it, Quilt!

Quilting the Swoon

2012-02-25T10:08:00.000+10:00

I made the Mega Swoon (80" x 80") as part of the Katy's Swoon-a-long. I chose to piece within the pieces to give the large blocks some character. The Swoon pattern is from Camille Roskelley and the pattern can be found here and here.

I had 5 yards of a Michael Miller fabric which became the focus print. Fussy cut within the blocks.

I chose the following Aurifil threads in 50wt 5005 / 1148 / 5001 / 2265 / 2612 and used geometric designs to enhance the blocks.

I always think the back is as important as the front so I used different coloured bobbin thread on the Red fabric from the Kate Spain Flurry collection.

I have chosen the 'Claret' Solid used in the centre to bind the quilt. This quilt will find a home in Sydney with one of my many nieces.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 34 Dream Weaver

2012-02-24T19:41:00.001+10:00

Welcome to week 34 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about piecing. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest is Monica Solorio Snow, our favourite jovial quilter of the living dead - The Happy Zombie. Monica has put the groove back into a traditional block using Moda's Half Moon Modern. Aptly named, 'Funky Wrench - Nuts and Bolts'.

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Dream Weaver

The old cane laundry basket makes its daily journey from the laundry to the hills hoist. The cane is unravelling due to wear and the hot, unrelenting sun seeps through the holes.

Cutting

1 - 1 1/2"strip x WOF Pink. Cut into 12 - 1 1/2" x 2 1/2" rectangles
4 - 1 1/2" x 2 1/2" black rectangles
4 - 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" black squares
2 - 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" dark blue squares
2 - 1 1/2" x 2 1/2" dark pink rectangles
11 - light 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" squares
11 - medium 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" squares

Assembly

Using the diagram below, layout the pieces

Sew the 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" squares together
Sew pieces to complete rows
Sew rows together

Let's Play

The Block

Try a confetti look by using multicoloured 1 1/2" squares and replacing some of the solid pink 1 1/2" x 2 1/2" rectangles with white.

I hope you have enjoyed this weeks block.

*** Copyright 2011 - Jane Davidson. Please remember that these blocks and any blocks designed by guest bloggers should not be used for commercial purposes ( sold as a pattern, published etc) without the written consent of the owner ***

Pezzy Prints back in stock

2012-02-23T18:22:00.000+10:00

Back in stock are Pezzy Prints in Layer Cakes and Jelly Rolls at my little e-shop.

Just arrived are the handy Bella Solid Jelly Rolls in white.

And the new collection from Deb Strain and Daughters called "Grow with me"

Dress up Your Roll Competition Extended

2012-02-18T11:03:00.000+10:00

The competition has been extended to 1st April 2012 so, there is still plenty of time to Dress up Your Roll and win some fabulous prizes.

For the international bloggers, a $100 Fatquartershop is up for grabs and for the locals, a $100 voucher at my little e-shop or a lap sized quilt professionally quilted by me.

There have been many excellent and very entertaining entries submitted to the Flickr group so far. They are easy and fun to make.

I have designed a very simple tutorial to get you started here.

So, grab your roll and dress it up.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 33 Crown

2012-02-17T18:52:00.003+10:00

Welcome to week 33 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about foundation piecing. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest is Bek Brown from Australia. Bek is a very talented quilter whose gorgeous handiwork can be found at Dreamfctry.

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Crown

A mother is the queen of her home. Her love for her family is the jewel in her crown.

Assembly

Paper Piece the three section from using the template foundations found here, here and here. Remember not to 'Scale' or fit to page when printing.
Sew the three sections together as shown in diagram below

The Block - 8" finished

Four blocks

On Point

On Point with Rotation

Horizontal Layout with various patterns formed by rotating the blocks.

I hope you have enjoyed this weeks block. Next week, I will be exploring piecing with 1.5" squares.

Simple

2012-02-16T13:05:00.000+10:00

The electrician had the power out for 3.5 hours this morning so I took the time to bind this simple charm quilt. Using only 5 charm packs of Park Avenue by 3-sisters for Moda and dividing them into lights and darks, I created this simple lounge quilt in Rita's favourite colours (the recipient of this quilt). I won't reveal when I started this quilt. It was one of those 'I keep putting aside projects because I am starting another project' projects.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop winner

2012-02-15T07:22:00.000+10:00

I would like to thank everyone who entered a comment on my post for the blog hop. I appreciate all the stalkers ( followers ) and interesting comments about Valentines memories.

The winner of the $25 gift voucher from Green Fairy is

CathyHFeb 11, 2012 10:31 AM

The first year we were married I made a heart shaped meatloaf. It has become a tradition. This will be the 32nd heart shaped meat loaf!!

Congratulations Cathy.

I would like to thank Melissa and all the sponsors of the hop for their hard work and generosity. Julie, Kimberly, Leah and Judi you are amazing.

Stripping the Dresden

2012-02-14T22:05:00.003+10:00

Next month is my turn to create block for the 9 members of the Bee to re-create. I love Dresden Plates but wanted to experiment with strip piecing the blades. I chose solids out of my scrap bag to create this design. I have not decided what background I will use or whether I will leave a plain centre or fussy cut fabric.

Here is a simple tutorial for making strip pieced Dresden plates - an alternative for using single fabrics for each blade.

Step 1 : Download the blade template here

Step 2 : Make 12 copies. Cut out paper foundations.

Step 3: Start adding strips from the top of the foundation. Cut the strips so they are not straight. Don't make the strips too wide, vary sizes to introduce many colours into the blade.

Hint: Attach a wider strip at the top and bottom of the foundation template and avoid having seams where the point is made at the top.

Step 4: When foundation is covered, trim and remove the paper.

Step 5 : Make the blades

with right sides together, fold blade in half lengthwise
Sew 1/4" along top of folded blade.
Snip the corner of the folded piece to allow a nice crisp point
Turn the blade right side out. Use a pointed object to push the point out.
Centre the seam and press so blade is even on both sides.

I have sewn the strips horizontally onto the blade. Try alternating each blade with vertically sewn strips.

Step 6: Arrange in threes. Sew together to form halves. Sew halves together.

Step 7 - Make centre by cutting a 4" circle and raw edge appliquéing to centre. Alternatively, add a 1/4" seam allowance and needle turn circle to centre.

Step 8 - Applique to background

Finished block 24" x 24"

Home Sweet Home Block - Under the Moreton Bay Fig

2012-02-14T13:12:00.001+10:00

Kim Lapacek at Kims Crafty Apple blog is hosting a quilt along with the theme - Home Sweet Home. I was very honoured to be invited to design a block for the QAL.
Block 7 - Under the Moreton Bay Fig
The requirement for the block was that it had to have a tree or a house or both. I chose both. Using the simple technique of foundation piecing (paper piecing ) and raw edge appliqué I created this block.

Materials
Hint - if you do not have the correct sized fabric, join strips of similar colours to make your own fabric.
Tree and Sky
Assorted pieces of Green fabric, minimum dimensions 4 1/2" x 7 1/2"
Assorted pieces of Blue fabric, minimum dimensions 4 1/2" x 10"
Grass
Green fabrics:
1 - 2 1/2" x 12 1/2"
1 - 1 1/4" x 12 1/2"
1 - 2 1/4" x 12 1/2"
Leaves
10" square piece of orange fabric
Tree trunk
7 1/2" square of brown fabric
Embellishments
A piece of fabric with characters and objects that can be cut out and placed within the block. I chose the house, deer and acorn from the Woodlands collection by Khristian A Howell.

Assembly
Step 1 - Print out the foundation template - Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4. Remember not to 'Fit to page' or scale when printing.
Step 2 - Cut out the individual foundation pieces. Use the measurements recommended on the foundations template to cut fabric pieces.
Step 3 - Foundation piece the top half of the block and remove the papers. The block will measure 8" x 12 1/2"
Hint: There are many tutorials in cyberland teaching the beginner how to Foundation Piece (or Paper Piece). Patchwork planet is a great starting point.
Step 4 - sew together lengthways the three green grass strips. The block will measure 5" x 12 1/2"
Step 5 - Join the two halves together.

Step 6 - Trace the tree trunk template found here onto the back of fusible webbing. Cut out around trace line leaving 1/8" allowance
Step 7 - Press fusible webbing to back of fabric as per manufacturers instructions

Step 8 - Cut out tree on trace line.
Step 9 - Fuse and cut out other objects to place around the tree and in the hollow of the tree.
Step 10 - Remove paper from backing of fusible web and layer the pieces to be appliquéd on the block. When you are happy with the placement, fuse shapes to block.
Hint - use appliqué glue to secure the tiny pointed edges of the tree trunk.

Step 10 - Trace 12 leaves onto fusible webbing. Cut out leaving 1/8" around trace line.
Step 11 - Fuse leaves to back of orange fabric and cut out on trace line. Peel off backing paper.
Step 12 - Position leaves on tree and fuse according to manufactures directions.
Step 13 - Using matching threads and a smaller stitch, sew 1/8" inside appliqué shape to secure the piece.
Hint - You can also use thread to add veins to the leaves or texture to the tree trunk. Try embroidery floss or perle cottons to add texture.

FInished block size 12 1/2" x 12 1/2"

Thank for letting me share my block with you today. I hope you have enjoyed the QAL. Please visit the Flickr group to see what everyone has been making and visit the link below to view the previous blocks and tutorials.

Grab the button and join in the fun.

Tuesdays Treasure - my mum

2012-02-14T07:56:00.001+10:00

My sister is going through all the old slides and converting them into digital format. I wanted to share this one photo of mum as a piper in her band when she was only 20. It is one of my favourites.

Unfortunately, mum had to abandon the pipes because her eldest child hated the sound.

Tuesdays Treasure is hosted by the lovely Melody at The House on the side of the Hill. Make sure you visit Melody's site and experience her talents as an excellent stitcher and quilter. Melody is also running a penny rug BOM using felt. The first 2 blocks have been posted here and here.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 10

2012-02-14T07:16:00.000+10:00

Corey from Little Miss Shabby has made a beautiful Valentines pillow for the last day of the Simply Charmed Blog Hop. Corey is giving away a $25 gift voucher from The Intrepid Thread.

Don't forget to leave a comment on Melissa's blog post to be in the draw for the $200 Fatquartershop gift voucher. Competition ends tonight.

32 weeks of The Desperate Housewife's Quilt

2012-02-13T21:00:00.000+10:00

32 weeks down and only 18 to go until I reach my goal of 50 blocks and 50 guest blogger blocks.

1. DHWQ Week 21 - The Star, 2. DHWQ Week 12 - Diamonds in the Rough, 3. DHWQ Week 11 - Kiss Kiss, 4. DHWQ Block 10 - New from Old, 5. DHWQ Week 9 - All washed up, 6. DHWQ Week 8 - Board Games, 7. DHWQ Week 7 - Salt n Pepper, 8. DH6 Week 6 - Phillip Screwdriver, 9. DHWQ Week 5 - Flower Power, 10. DHWQ Week 4 - Bar Jello, 11. Desperate Housewife Block 3 - Evolution, 12. DHWQ Raindrop - Block 2, 13. DHWQ Block 1 - Eight Squared, 14. DHWQ Week 15 - Chocolate Box, 15. DHWQ Week 14 - Venetian Blinds, 16. DHWQ Week 13 - Umbrella, 17. DHWQ Week 19 - Lightning, 18. DHWQ Week 16 - Caught in a Web, 19. DHWQ Week 18 - Reflective Surface, 20. DHWQ Week 17 - Swing me around on the Hill hoist, 21. DHWQ Week 20 Talkin' Turkey, 22. DHWQ Week 22 - Ornamentallist, 23. DHWQ Week 23 - Light the Candle, 24. DHWQ Week 24 - Wreath, 25. DHWQ Week 25 - The Sad, Little, Elf Decoration, 26. DHWQ Week 26 - Christmas Lights, 27. DHWQ Week 27 - Four Makes Two, 28. DHWQ Week 28 - Super Nova, 29. DHWQ Week 29 - Painted Road, 30. DHWQ Block - Week 30 Heartfelt, 31. DHWQ Week 31 Layer up Layer upon Layer, 32. DHWQ Block 32 - Shattered Pane

Which is your favourite?

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Circle of Love

2012-02-11T17:58:00.001+10:00

Welcome to day 9 of the Simply Charmed Blog Hop hosted by Melissa of Happy Quilting.

Each blogger was given the challenge of making a Valentines project using one Charm Pack from Deb Strain - Always and Forever.

So, I decided on a simple wall hanging / table topper.

Circle of Love

Materials

1 Always and Forever charm pack
1 1/2 yard solid for background fabric, border and binding
1 1/4 yards for backing fabric
Applique - Stitch n Wash + fabric glue stick, Applique glue
Template plastic
45" x 45" wadding

Cutting

From each charm square cut:

1 - 2" x 5" rectangle
1 - 2" x 3" rectangle
1 - 3" x 3" square

From solid background fabric cut:

1 - 27 1/2" x 27 1/2" square (Centre Block)
3 - 2" strips WOF (width of fabric). Cut these into 72 - 1 1/2" x 2" rectangles (Border block)
2 - 1 1/2" strips WOF. Cut these into 8 - 3" x 1 1/2" rectangles and 8 - 5" x 1 1/2" rectangles (Corner blocks)
4 - 2 1/2" strips WOF (Binding)

Assembly

Step 1 - Making the border blocks.

Block 1

Sew a solid 1 1/2" x 2" rectangle to each end of a 2" x 3" charm piece. Make 12.
Sew a 2" x 5" charm piece to each end.

Make 12 - 5" x 5" unfinished blocks.

Block 2

Sew a solid 1 1/2" x 2" rectangle to each end of a 2" x 3" charm piece. Make 24.
Sew to each end of a 2" x 5" charm piece.

Make 12 - 5" x 5" unfinished blocks.

Block 3
Select 4 red toned 3" x 3" charm pieces

Sew a 1 1/2" x 3" solid rectangle to the top and bottom of a 3" x 3" charm piece.
Sew a 1 1/2" x 5" solid strip to both sides of the 3" x 3" charm piece.
Make 4

Step 2 - Adding the borders

For the top and bottom border, alternate Block 1 and 2 until there are 6.

Sew these 6 blocks together. Finished width is 27 1/2" x 5"
Attach top and bottom border to 27 1/2" background solid square
Repeat for side borders adding block 3 to each end.
Attach side borders.

Hint: At this stage I chose to quilt the background as I was using hand turned appliqué technique to add the hearts. It is a personal choice whether you quilt at the stage or later.

Front - swirls in hot pink thread

Back - lighter pink thread

Step 3 - Preparing the Applique Hearts

Download Heart Template here. Remember when printing, do not 'Fit to Page' or scale file.

I used a product called Stitch n Wash - a light fusible product sold by Floriani. There are many techniques available for appliqué. You may choose to do raw edge or hand turned for your project. I like hand turned appliqué as it makes the hearts puffy and gives them dimension.

Trace the heart shape onto back of fusible product. Cut on trace line.
Press as per manufacturers instructions to back of 3" x 3" charm piece. Notice the placement on the square. This will give me a nice 1/4" seam allowance all around.
Cut around heart shape leaving 1/4" for seam allowance for turning.

Using a sharp pair of clipping scissors, clip into seam allowance on curved edges to a few threads away from outline.

Using your glue stick, turn over the edges and glue to fusible template.
Make 26 hearts

Hint: I separated the charms into colour groups - reds, deep pinks and light pinks and whites. I used red for the corner block 3 and centre hearts. Deep pinks for second row of hearts and the remainder for the outer circle of hearts.

Step 4 - Applique layout

Find the centre of the background by folding it in 4 and finger pressing.
Place the 4 red hearts on fold lines with equal spacing between them.
Using a 10" dinner plate make a paper template. Fold the template in four to find the centre.
Place the 8 dark pink hearts evenly around the circle with the tops of the hearts just protruding from under the template.

Make another template 14 3/4". Fold in 4 and find centre.
Place the remaining 14 hearts evenly around the circumference of the template.

When you are satisfied with the layout, place a dab of appliqué glue to fix the hearts in place and pin.
Using matching thread and appliqué stitch, sew the hearts in place.

Quilt, bind and label your project and share it with someone you love.

Finished Quilt Size : 36" x 36"

Finished Block size " 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" (Block 1, 2 and 3)

I hope you enjoyed this Valentines project. Today as part of the blog hop, Judi from the Green Fairy is giving away one lucky blogger a $25 gift voucher. Not only does Judi have a wide selection of discount Moda pre-cuts, she is one amazing and talented quilter.

To enter the giveaway today

1. Please leave a comment sharing any story about Valentines Day.

For example, I had a job which allowed me to travel overseas, so I would write anonymous Valentines cards and post them from all sorts of odd places around the world. My friends would receive them and spend weeks working out who they were from.

2. For an extra chance, please become a follower and tell me that you are now blog stalking me.

To enter the grand prize draw, go here for a chance to win a $200 gift voucher from the lovely Kimberly and team at Fatquartershop.

The giveaway on this blog is open until 20th February 2012.

Don't forget to visit all the other blogs for your chance to see some amazing projects and enter the giveaways.

February 1 - Melissa from http://www.happyquiltingmelissa.blogspot.com/

February 2 - Heather from http://www.quiltstory.blogspot.com/

February 3 - Melissa from http://melissaslilaclane.blogspot.com/

February 6 - Angela from http://cuttopieces.blogspot.com/

February 7 - Amy from http://www.diaryofaquilter.com/

February 8 - Natalia from http://www.piecenquilt.blogspot.com/

February 9 - Jessica from http://twinfibers.blogspot.com/

February 10 - Katie from http://www.swimbikequilt.com/

February 11 - Jane from http://quiltjane.blogspot.com/

February 13 - Corey from http://www.littlemissshabby.com/

February 14 - Happy Valentines Day and the Grand Prize Winner Announcement.

Thank you Melissa for organising the hop and Judi, Julie, Leah and Kimberly for being such generous sponsors.

Vintage Modern arrives Tuesday

2012-02-11T15:42:00.000+10:00

In store Tuesday, the new pre-cut collection from Bonnie and Camille for Moda fabrics - Vintage Modern.

Hurry, limited stocks.

Quick Stitch Open Studio Day

2012-02-11T14:11:00.002+10:00

Isla and Tamara

Today, Tamara from Quick Stitch Quilting professional quilting services, held an Open Studio day, where all her customers (and me) were invited to show their quilts, beautifully quilted by Tamara on her Gammill long arm and Statler Stitcher.

Tamara's mum, Isla, owns the Twilight Crafts store in Esk and has beautiful country accommodation specially suited for quilting and craft retreats for up to 10 people.

Thank you Tamara for a most wonderful day and delicious morning tea. I am looking forward to next years event.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 8

2012-02-10T21:34:00.001+10:00

Kate from Swim Bike Quilt has made this gorgeous Valentine Zipper Pouch. Visit Kate's site for the tutorial and a chance to win a $25 gift voucher from Burgundy Buttons.

Tomorrow is my turn to present a Valentines project as part of the blog hop. I will be giving away a $25 gift voucher from The Green Fairy.

Lollipop Quilt - Sandy Gervais in the Spotlight

2012-02-10T21:17:00.000+10:00

Sharon Pernes from Craizee Corners has invited me to join in the her spotlight on Sandy Gervais. Sandy is a very talented designer for Moda that has dazzled the quilting world with her bright and cheery fabric collections. One of my all time favourites of Sandy's is Lollipop. It is a cheeky range of fun designs that come together in a rainbow of turquoise, orange, golds, reds, chocolates and creamy white.

For my first ModaBakeShop project I selected Lollipop to make this simple baby quilt / play mat.

A very achievable design for the beginner quilter, introducing them to simple piecing, appliqué and embroidery techniques.

I usually give away the quilts I have made but this little quilt has a special place in my quilting journey and will remain with me forever.

To coincide with my blog post today, I have listed in my little e-shop, five Lollipop kits. The kit has 2 Lollipop Charm packs and Lollipop yardage for the backing and binding. Team that up with the MBS tutorial - Lollipop Quilt - and you will have one cute quilt.

Thank you Sharon for inviting me to showcase my Lollipop quilt and the fabulous fabrics of Sandy Gervais.

Don't forget to look out for Sandy's new collections to be released soon, Merry Medley, Monster Bash and Phenomenal Falls.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 7

2012-02-09T23:59:00.001+10:00

Jessica from Twin Fibers has made this gorgeous Valentine Card Keeper. Visit Jessica's site for the tutorial and a chance to win a $25 gift voucher from The Intrepid Thread.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt -Block 32 Shattered Pane

2012-02-09T22:39:00.004+10:00

Welcome to week 32 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about foundation piecing. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This week we have two very talented guest bloggers - Jamie and Tonya. Jamie Elfert is from Baby Boomer Quilting blog and has designed a special Valentines block named 'Amor' and included various layouts using this block.

Tonya is a fellow Aussie from Craftymummy blog who was made a gorgeous foundation pieced block in pastels called 'Pastel Stripes'.

Be sure to visit both sites and look at the wonderful quilts and crafts made by Jamie and Tonya

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Shattered Pane
The cricket ball through the kitchen window. Shards of glass, guilty faces ..... summer.

Assembly

The foundation template is found here and here. Remember not to scale or 'fit to page' when printing.

FInished 8" block

The first three layouts are horizontal with rotation and colour addition or subtraction to the blocks to create a funky flower pattern.

Horizontal Layout with rotation

On Point Setting with rotation

On Point Setting

Auriful Thread Winner - Week 4

This weeks winner is HopeTN. You have won a sample pack of Aurifil threads by simply making one of the DHWQ blocks and posting it in the Flickr group. Enjoy.

*** Copyright 2011 Jane Davidson. Please remember that these blocks and any blocks designed by guest bloggers should not be used for commercial purposes ( sold as a pattern, published etc) without the written consent of the owner ***

Birthday Blocks

2012-02-09T13:43:00.001+10:00

It's Claudia from our LQS very significant birthday in 3 days and everyone was invited to make her a 5" or 10" in Batiks to present to her before the day. My dear friend Lady Anne and I spent the morning making these blocks.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 6

2012-02-08T23:16:00.000+10:00

Today Natalia from Piece n Quilt is presenting her Valentines Pillows as part of the Simply Charmed blog hop hosted by Melissa from Happy Quilting. Visit Natalia's blog to enter in todays giveaway of $25 gift voucher from Green Fairy Quilts.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 5

2012-02-08T07:26:00.002+10:00

Today Amy from Diary if a Quilter is presenting her Scrappy nine patch mini quilt as part of the Simply Charmed blog hop hosted by Melissa from Happy Quilting. Visit Angela's blog to enter in todays giveaway of $25 gift voucher from Burgundy Buttons.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 4

2012-02-06T21:22:00.000+10:00

Today Angela from Cut to Pieces is presenting her pincushion tutorial as part of the Simply Charmed blog hop hosted by Melissa from Happy Quilting. Visit Angela's blog to enter in todays giveaway of $25 gift voucher from The Intrepid Thread.

Stumbled upon this UFO

2012-02-06T18:51:00.000+10:00

I started this quilt in 2009 for our king sized bed. Doing a spring clean today, I found it folded in my cupboard. I just have to add borders and then I am done.

Shhhh, I won't tell you how many UFO's / WIP's I found.

Swoon Quilt top finished

2012-02-05T12:56:00.001+10:00

Now for the fun bit - Quilting. I will use a wonderful design by Ellen Munnich, which I absolutely love and Auriful threads in matching colours.

Simply Charmed blog hop - Day 3

2012-02-04T08:18:00.000+10:00

Melissa Stramel has designed this gorgeous tote bag for the Simply Charmed blog hop. The tutorial can be found here.

Be sure to enter the giveaway on Melissa's post and don't forget to enter for the grand prize of a $200 Fatquartershop gift voucher at Happy Quilting before 14th February.

Mega Swoon

2012-02-03T22:26:00.001+10:00

Katy from Im A Ginger Monkey is hosting the Swoon-a-long. A QAL using the wonderful Swoon block designed by Camille Roskelley. I purchased the pattern but instead of 9 24" blocks as in the instructions, I chose to make a mega swoon block measuring 80" x 80". The individual blocks are pieced and complemented with a large print fabric that was fussy cut. I started awhile ago and then was distracted by other projects but today I decided to get it finished.

It is 10.30pm on friday night and I have the top all ready to sew together. To finish it off I will quilt using an intricate custom pattern in colourful threads. The binding will be the claret solid used in the centre block. To join in the fun head over to the Flickr group and see all the Swoonalicious blocks that are being made.

Quickly laid out on floor ready to sew.

Simply Charmed blog hop - Day 2

2012-02-03T06:59:00.001+10:00

Join Heather from Quiltstory to make this wonderful Valentines garland. Be sure to enter Heather's giveaway and visit Happy Quilting for the grand prize.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 31 Layer upon Layer upon Layer

2012-02-02T21:36:00.001+10:00

Welcome to week 31 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about using up binding scraps. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest blogger is Tammie Schaffer from CraftyTammie blog. Tammie has designed this delightful block, 'Stockinette Stripes', because it reminds her of a knitting pattern. Very cute indeed.

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Materials

Left over binding - minimum size 8 1/2". Binding is a strip of fabric pressed in half lengthwise. As prepared for double fold binding.
8 1/2" square of fabric for foundation

Cutting

Cut the binding into 8 1/2" pieces. I used 9 pieces in total. This may alter if binding width is smaller or larger.

Assembly

Draw straight lines at even intervals as guidelines for keeping binding strips straight.
Place the first piece of binding with the fold at the bottom of the foundation square. Sew to foundation.
Keep adding binding strips overlapping them by 1/4" to hide the previous stitch line.

Sew the last piece flush with the top.
The binding strips will need to be secured so they don't fold back. I chose to quilt a heart with vertical lines, 1" apart.

Be careful when quilting the block. Make sure none of the binding strips get caught and flip back.

Finished 8" block

This block is quite bulky and I would suggest adding a sash if you are joining multiples. This block would also work well with some Quilt as you go (QAYG) techniques.

I have placed the binding strips in horizontal rows but with this technique you can sew them at any angle on the foundation.

I hope you enjoyed this dimensional block this week. Next week, I will presenting another Foundation Pieced beauty.

Auriful Thread Winner - Week 3

This weeks winner is Jessica from Sew Crafty Jess Blog. You have won a sample pack of Aurifil threads by simply making one of the DHWQ blocks and posting it in the Flickr group. Enjoy.

Quickie Valentines Mug Rug (Caffeine Carpet)

2012-02-02T16:50:00.000+10:00

Sew together a few scraps into a 10"square, place 2 - 10" squares of flannel in between and 1 - 10" square of fabric for backing, quilt it and voila, one cute mug rug.

Back

Front

Now for a wash and tumble dry to fluff up the edges. Simple and only 25 minutes to make.

Simply Charmed Blog Hop - Day 1

2012-02-01T22:49:00.001+10:00

Join Melissa today at Happy Quilting with her 'Knotty little Apron' tutorial. Leave a comment on Melissa's site and you will be in the draw for the $200 Fatquartershop gift voucher.

It starts Tomorrow

2012-02-01T07:04:00.005+10:00

Tomorrow is the start of the Simply Charmed blog hop. Don't forget to visit each site to win some wonderful prizes.

February 1 - Melissa from http://www.happyquiltingmelissa.blogspot.com/

February 2 - Heather from http://www.quiltstory.blogspot.com/

February 3 - Melissa from http://melissaslilaclane.blogspot.com/

February 6 - Angela from http://cuttopieces.blogspot.com/

February 7 - Amy from http://www.diaryofaquilter.com/

February 8 - Natalia from http://www.piecenquilt.blogspot.com/

February 9 - Jessica from http://twinfibers.blogspot.com/

February 10 - Katie from http://www.swimbikequilt.com/

February 11 - Jane from http://quiltjane.blogspot.com/

February 13 - Corey from http://www.littlemissshabby.com/

February 14 - Happy Valentines Day and the Grand Prize Winner Announcement.

The ABC of quilting

2012-01-31T13:30:00.000+10:00

Shruti from 13 Woodhouse Road is presenting the ABC of quilting. Today, I will be presenting on Shruti's blog "Simple block construction". How to use the most simplest blocks to create wonderful designs for the beginner quilter.

Name Game Swap

2012-01-31T12:57:00.001+10:00

I was so excited to receive my Name Game mini quilt this morning from Sharon at Lilabelle Lane Creations. Sharon used information from my blog sites to create a quilt that embraced my favourite colours, shapes and techniques all with a fresh, modern look. I love it. Thank you Sharon. It will adorn the walls of my quilt room.

You can view all the other name quilts as they appear on the Flickr group.

Dress Up Your Roll Entries

2012-01-31T10:05:00.000+10:00

1. Angry Bird, 2. IMG_1834, 3. 002, 4. A Crown for Your Thone - DYR, 5. toilet paper cover, 6. IMG_1833, 7. 1st outhouse roll cover side view, 8. DSC03315-1, 9. DSC03314-1, 10. 013, 11. DSC03305-1, 12. 018

These are the wonderful entries submitted so far for the Dress Up Your Roll Competition. Great prizes to be won from FatQuarterShop and me.

Hurry, entries close 1st March 2012.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 30 Heartfelt

2012-01-26T14:06:00.000+10:00

Welcome to week 30 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about Foundation piecing a heart for Valentines Day. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest blogger is Danielle from MesPetitsElefants blog with her fabulous block - Round the Twist . Danielle will be showing us a nifty way to make flying geese blocks.

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Heartfelt

Every action and word we speak must be an extension of what our heart feels and our head knows.

Materials

Scraps of Valentine themes solids or prints and charcoals for background

Assembly

Print the foundation templates from here - page 1 and page 2. Remember not to "Fit to Page" or Scale when printing.
Foundation piece the block

If you like, add embellishments - beads, appliqué, ric rac, embroidery.

The Block

Auriful Thread Winner - Week 2

Congratulations to 'Fafa Ruban' from Le Blog de Fafa Ruban blog. You have won a sample pack of Aurifil threads by simply making one of the DHWQ blocks and posting it in the Flickr group. Enjoy.

Dress up your Roll Competition - Enter Now

2012-01-25T17:51:00.000+10:00

Don't forget to make your roll cover for a chance to win some fabulous prizes from the FatQuarterShop and moi. You can find out about the competition here. Make sure you visit the Flickr group to see the entries so far.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 29 Painted Road

2012-01-19T22:04:00.001+10:00

Welcome to week 29 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about scrappy log cabins. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest blogger is Shruti all the way from India. Shruti has made a block using the cathedral windows technique. You can find Shruti at 13 Woodhouse Road blog.

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Painted Road

We often follow the yellow brick road only to find that it goes on for ever and ever and ever.

Materials

This block is a perfect way to use up scraps. So dive into the scrap bag and select your favourite fabrics.
Cut 1 - 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" square for foundation
Cut 1 - 2 1/4" x 3" rectangle for centre of block

Fabric Preparation

Make the blocks of fabric by joining random pieces of scraps together to make lengths of 10"

Cut up the blocks into strips ranging from 1" - 2 1/2"

Block Assembly

Place the 2 1/4" x 3" rectangle and a strip right sides together. Pin rectangle to foundation anywhere near the middle

sew together, press open and trim excess fabric
Keep repeating this step until foundation block is covered.

Trim back to 8 1/2"

I hope you enjoyed this weeks block.

Auriful Thread Winner - Week 1

Congratulations to Cory from The Modern Male Homemaker blog. You have won a sample pack of Aurifil threads by simply making one of the DHWQ blocks and posting it in the Flickr group. Enjoy.

New Arrivals

2012-01-19T17:45:00.001+10:00

Just arrived in my little e-shop is the new Christmas collection Blitzen from Basic Grey. This collection is not due for release until June 2012. I have 4 Layer Cakes to tempt you.

Blitzen by Basic Grey

I also have some Layer Cakes in the new Urban Chiks, Urban Cowgirl range.

Good news - For all those who missed out on the first delivery, Good Fortune will be arriving next week.

I really want to win that case of Aurifil threads

2012-01-18T07:36:00.000+10:00

Aurifil are running a competition and giving away some great prizes. I have entered the Fractured Star quilt and would be most appreciative if you voted for my quilt. I hate to ask but I really want to win that case of threads.

If you wish to make a vote, please follow this link.

Competition closes 25th January 2012.

Simply charmed blog hop

2012-01-16T23:43:00.006+10:00

Today's the day. The secrets out. Announcing the Simply Charmed Blog Hop. Isn't Valentines Day great. A day focused on telling those we love just how much they mean to us. Fabulous. And what better way to show someone you care than to give them something special made by you just for them.

So that is why Melissa from Happy Quilting asked some of her amazing friends (and me) from blog land to join her in bringing you the Simply Charmed Blog Hop. 10 days of Valentine tutorials and giveaways kicking off on February 1st. So here are the amazingly talanted ladies that will be joining me.

February 1 - Melissa from http://www.happyquiltingmelissa.blogspot.com/

February 2 - Heather from http://www.quiltstory.blogspot.com/

February 3 - Melissa from http://melissaslilaclane.blogspot.com/

February 6 - Angela from http://cuttopieces.blogspot.com/

February 7 - Amy from http://www.diaryofaquilter.com/

February 8 - Natalia from http://www.piecenquilt.blogspot.com/

February 9 - Jessica from http://twinfibers.blogspot.com/

February 10 - Katie from http://www.swimbikequilt.com/

February 11 - Jane from http://quiltjane.blogspot.com/

February 13 - Corey from http://www.littlemissshabby.com/

February 14 - Happy Valentines Day and the Grand Prize Winner Announcement.

The Simply Charmed title came about because each of us created our project using 1 Charm Pack and added yardage if necessary but only for backing, lining ect. The bulk of each project is made using just the 1 Charm Pack of Always and Forever by Deb Strain. And trust me, you are going to be amazed with what you can create using a single charm pack!!!

And what fun would a Blog Hop be without Giveaways???

Thanks to the generosity of our amazing sponsors, there will be a giveaway along with each of the 10 tutorials. So when the time comes, make sure to enter at each of the contributors tutorial post for your chance to win some major fabric cash.

Fat Quarter Shop has graciously sponsored the fabric used in making the tutorials.

They will also be sponsoring the Grand Prize of a $200.00 Gift Certificate to 1 lucky reader.

Burgundy Buttons has graciously sponsored three $25.00 Gift Certificates for 3 lucky readers.

The Intrepid Thread has graciously sponsored three $25.00 Gift Certificates for 3 lucky readers.

The Green Fairy has graciously sponsored three $25.00 Gift Certificates for 3 lucky readers.

A huge thank you goes out to each of our sponsors!!! They are a huge part of making this Blog Hop. So pop on over to their shops (their icon's are links) and find the special Charm Pack or 2 for you. (And whatever else might tickle your fancy :)

And last but not least, we would love it if you joined the Simply Charmed Blog Hop Flickr Group. This will be a place to show us your amazing projects made using the Simply Charmed tutorials!!! We can't wait to see your own personal take on these special gifts :)

So are you ready to hop along with us? Are you excited for February 1st?

Well then grab a button and spread the word.

Let's see how far we can spread the homemade love this Valentines Day.

The perfect square quilt

2012-01-14T10:56:00.003+10:00

Oh how we wish!

I saw a discussion on Facebook today about squaring quilts so I thought I would post a brief post on my thoughts.

The best way to achieve your goal of a near perfect square quilt is keeping it square throughout the whole process of quilt making

Make sure you have a constant 1/4' seam as you sew
Measure your blocks as you go and square each block to one size
When adding rows make sure each row is the same size
Don't torture the block with a steam iron and distort the pieces.
Don't be afraid to use starch

Now it should be easier to attach the borders. Here are some hints for adding borders.

Never cut a border to the size as per the pattern. Always measure through the middle of the quilt, lengthwise and widthwise. Record that measurement.
If you are using one fabric for the borders, try to cut the border from the length of the fabric, not the width. More fabric yardage is involved but there is less stretch.
Pieced borders should be handled with care. Starch up well and do not stretch. If you are working with bias edges, stay stitch the edges.
Once borders are applied, do not stretch them with ironing or hanging.

How to apply a border to a 'not so square quilt'.

Sometimes the quilt skews as the measurements of the opposing sides are are not equal. This needs to be corrected.

I prefer not to take measurements at intervals within the quilt and average. This still leaves distortion in the length or width of the quilt. What we need to achieve, is the illusion that the quilt measures the same from top to bottom, side to side. To so this:

Fold the quilt in half lenghtwise and find the midpoint.
Take the top border and find its midpoint.
Place the a border strip, that is wider than the quilt, through the centre of the quilt matching midpoints and then pin in the middle and on either side. The border piece must lay flat and not be stretched to fit.

Draw a straight line for each side pin point.
Cut on this line
Repeat for the bottom border.

Attaching the borders

If the quilt is not square then we have to ease the borders onto the quilt.

Find the midpoint of the quilt and the border and pin
Pin at each end.

If the quilt top is bigger, there will be a wave of fabric that needs to be evenly distributed. To do this:

Find the midpoint between the middle and side pin and pin.
Then find the midpoint between that pin and the centre.
Repeat this process until the quilt is evenly distributed between the pins.

Attach the border in this order.

Order of joining borders.

Hint: If your pieced borders are too large or too small then always make adjustments in the centre of the border. This way if there are decorative corner blocks it does not distort their shape.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 28 Super Nova and Aurifil Giveaway

2012-01-12T19:27:00.003+10:00

Welcome to week 28 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about foundation piecing. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest blogger is Benita Skinner from from Victoriana Quilt designs blog. Benita has made this cute little block names Skewed Heart ready for Valentines Day. Be sure to visit Benita's site as it is a fantastic resource for all quilters with a multitude of free patterns and tips.

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Super Nova

There is so much a person can tolerate before they explode like a super nova.

Materials

Any scraps from the scrap bin. I pieced scraps together to make my own 'fabric'. Sew pieces together to make blocks larger than the selected section in the foundation template. Make sure you avoid seams close to other seams or it will get bulky.

Foundation Piecing Tips

Use a very small stitch so you can rip off the paper easily when done
Cut your seams back to 1/4"as you go
Press with a dry iron as you go

The foundation template can be found here Page 1 and Page 2

Let's play

The block

Horizontal Layout with rotation of alternate blocks

Horizontal Layout with colour change

Horizontal Layout with rotation

I hope you enjoyed todays block. Next week I will doing a scrappy log cabin variation.

The wonderful people at Aurifil have sent me some sample packs of their beautiful thread. I am sure once you try Aurifil you fill your sewing room shelves with this thread.

Anyone who has made a Desperate Housewife block (mine or guests) and posted it in the Flickr group is eligible to win one of these packs. I will be looking through the Flickr group and giving one pack away a week for the next 5 weeks.

Even Jasper dreams of using Aurifil

Look what Layer Cakes are arriving this week

2012-01-11T19:56:00.000+10:00

Domestic Bliss

Felicity

Half Moon Modern

Dress up your Roll Competition Starts Today

2012-01-09T00:00:00.007+10:00

Today starts the competition where the toilet rolls of the world can regain their dignity and become a part of the quilting world along side the mug rug (caffeine carpet), pot holders, placemats, block bees and runners. You never know - one day they may even have their own swap.

The official page is found here which outlines the rules of the competition, links and prizes.

To kick start the competition I will be presenting a simple tutorial on how to make a self lined roll cover. I am sure there are other ways to make a cover but I find this the easiest for me.

I can find a place for Tula anywhere in my house.

Materials

One lonely and naked toilet roll
Fat eight fabric (22" x 9")
2 - 6" x 6" square fabric for top
Freezer Paper / Template plastic
Fusible web

Optional

Fancy Trim / embellishments / fusible web, embroidery floss

Base Assembly

(There are many sizes of rolls available. Therefore, I will show generic cutting instructions for this tutorial)

Measure the circumference of the roll and add 1". This will be the width.
Measure the height of the roll and add 1/4"
Cut a piece of fabric using the measured width x double the height.

For example:

The circumference of my roll was 14 1/2" so I added 1" to make a final measurement of 15 1/2".

The height of the roll was 4" so I added 1/4" for seam allowance. I doubled the height measurement so my piece will be 15 1/2" x 8 1/2"

Press the piece in half lengthwise

Unfold
On the bottom half of the right side of the fabric add your embellishments. Remember to leave at least 1/4" free around the edges so the seam allowance is not bulky.

Fold piece in half with right sides together and sew 1/4" around the three unfinished sides leaving 3" gap.

Trim bulk from corners.
Turn piece inside out.
Using a stiletto or other pointy tool, push out seams and corners and press.

Close up gap by folding seams inward 1/4" and slip stitching the opening.
To close roll cover, slip stitch the two ends together.

Join with wrong side facing out.

Make tiny stitches through all layers.

Top Assembly

Place the roll on a piece of freezer paper or template plastic. Trace around to make template.

I used my 5" circle template

Cut out template
Place the 2 x 6" squares right side together.
Place template on back of one 6" square
Trace around template.

Using a smaller stitch ( circles right side together ) sew on trace line.
Cut around trace line adding 1/8" to 1/4" seam allowance.

Separate the 2 circles by pinching the backing fabric and make a small incision of 1 1/2".

Turn the circle inside out.
Using a stiletto or other pointy tool, push out seams and press.

Close up the gap in the back of the circle by appliquéing a piece of fabric over it. I used fusible web to add a piece. There is no need to sew edges.

Hint:You could appliqué this piece and make it the right side.

Finishing the roll cover

Fold the circle into quarters and finger press to give you four registration marks. Do the same for the base.
With right sides together, slip stitch using tiny stitches, the top to the base remembering to match the four registration marks.

Turn the cover inside out.

Now you have one beautifully dressed toilet roll and prepared to go forth and make many more for the competition.

But wait .... there is more .....

Competition Closed

Winner are : Trace R, Tracee and Rhonda G

The lovely people at Aurifil have given me some sample packs to giveaway. To help me promote this competition, I would really appreciate it if you could Blog, tweet, FB, etc about this event. Please leave a comment on this post saying you have spread the word and I will pick 3 winners next Tuesday to receive a pack of Aurifil threads.

Cotton and wool in various weights

Good Luck

Loouise in the pool, going shopping and in evening wear

Block 21 - The Star by Jess

2012-01-08T16:18:00.000+10:00

I was so excited to see Jess from SewCraftyJess has used a block from the Desperate Housewife's Quilt-if-you-wish-along for her 4 x 5 Bee.

Don't they look fantastic. The block is a foundation pieced block named The Star.

Only 2 more days until ....

2012-01-07T17:19:00.000+10:00

It's only two more days until the Dress Up Your Roll competition starts. Look here to read the rules and gasp at the fabulous prizes.

The Desperate Housewife's Quilt - Block 27 Four makes Two

2012-01-04T20:40:00.002+10:00

Welcome to week 27 of the 'The Desperate Housewife's Quilt'. Todays block is about using the basic 4-patch and creating 2 blocks. Remember, this is not a quilt-a-long. Just follow the blog every week and pick and choose which blocks you would like to make. I will be injecting some uniqueness into traditional blocks, applique, three dimensional, crazy and thread-art blocks. If you make a block please post it on the Flickr group for everyone to enjoy. Also, I have this nifty button under each post that allows you to save the post as a PDF.

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Be sure to visit this week's Guest Blogger and their wonderful block.

(N.B Due to time and date differences, guest bloggers posts do not always coincide with my post)

This weeks guest blogger is Siobhan Rogers from BeaSpokeQuilts blog. Siobhan is a very talented quilter from Sydney. Today, Siobhan will be presenting a block name Spots and Stripes.

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Four make Two

I am sure there were four biscuits on that plate a minute ago. A little hand has reached up and grabbed two. Now four is two.

Materials

16 - 4 3/4" squares
2 - 1" x 8 1/2" strips of pink solid

Assembly

Make 4 x 4-patch blocks

4 3/4" squares

4-patch

Mark 1 1/2" from middle seam.

Cut from marked point to point.

Save the off cuts for later to make another block

The block will look like this.

Turn block on side. Find centre and cut 8 1/2" wide

Repeat above steps to make second half of block.

add one 1" x 8 1/2" strip to the middle of the two pieces and voila - one unfinished 8 1/2" block

Repeat for remaining 4-patch blocks to make another block.

The block

On Point Layout with Sashing

Horizontal Layout

Horizontal Layout with Rotation

Horizontal Layout with rotation and sashing

Horizontal Layout with sashing

On Point

On Point with Rotation

From the off cuts, join the triangles together to make this block (roughly 10 1/4" - 10 1/2")

I hope you have enjoyed this simple block. Next week I will be presenting another paper pieced block themed summer.

We have over the half way mark and only 50 blocks to go. If you are interested in designing a block for the DHWQ, please send me an e-mail at quiltjane{at}gmail{dot}com,

1. DHWQ Week 21 - The Star, 2. DHWQ Week 12 - Diamonds in the Rough, 3. DHWQ Week 11 - Kiss Kiss, 4. DHWQ Block 10 - New from Old, 5. DHWQ Week 9 - All washed up, 6. DHWQ Week 8 - Board Games, 7. DHWQ Week 7 - Salt n Pepper, 8. DH6 Week 6 - Phillip Screwdriver, 9. DHWQ Week 5 - Flower Power, 10. DHWQ Week 4 - Bar Jello, 11. Desperate Housewife Block 3 - Evolution, 12. DHWQ Raindrop - Block 2, 13. DHWQ Block 1 - Eight Squared, 14. DHWQ Week 15 - Chocolate Box, 15. DHWQ Week 14 - Venetian Blinds, 16. DHWQ Week 13 - Umbrella, 17. DHWQ Week 19 - Lightening, 18. DHWQ Week 16 - Caught in a Web, 19. DHWQ Week 18 - Reflective Surface, 20. DHWQ Week 17 - Swing me around on the Hill hoist, 21. DHWQ Week 20 Talkin' Turkey, 22. DHWQ Week 22 - Ornamentallist, 23. DHWQ Week 23 - Light the Candle, 24. DHWQ Week 24 - Wreath, 25. DHWQ Week 25 - The Sad, Little, Elf Decoration, 26. DHWQ Week 26 - Christmas Lights, 27. DHWQ Week 27 - Four Makes Two

1. DHWQ Week 22 - Guest Blogger Melody, 2. DHWQ Guest Blogger Sharon - Nameless, 3. DHWQ Week 19 - Guest Blogger Lauren - Burst, 4. Week 20 - Guest Blogger John Adams - SpinOut, 5. Guest Blogger Ros - Week 18, 6. Guest Blogger Melissa - Brady Bunch, 7. Guest Week 12 - Linked Squares, 8. DHWQ Guest Blogger - Week 11, 9. Guest Blogger Week 10 - Inspired by Peacock Feathers, 10. Guest Blogger Week 8, 11. DHWQ Guest Blogger Week 6 - Perspective, 12. Guest Blogger Week 7 - Rolling Divide, 13. Guest Blogger Week 5, 14. Guest Blogger - Week 4 Quasar, 15. DHWQ Week 9 Guest Blogger - Lazy Susan, 16. DHWQ Week 23 Guest Blogger - Pat Sloan, 17. Guest Blogger Week 2 - Funky Flower, 18. DHWQ Week 13 - Paint Chips Lynne Goldsworthy, 19. DHWQ Week 24 Guest Blogger Charlie Scott - Snowflake, 20. DHWQ Week 24 - Guest Blogger Sue Belleli - Scrappy Tree, 21. DHWQ Week 25 Guest Paloma - Broken Dishes, 22. DHWQ Week 26 Guest Blogger Belinda

Giveaway at Scrappy n Happy

2012-01-04T20:32:00.001+10:00

Jessica at Scrappy n Happy is a very talented and lovely person whom I have met through our shared interest in quilting and fabric. She has been hosting giveaways on her blog to welcome the New Year.

This week Jessica will be giving away two vouchers . One from the Fatquartershop and one from my little e-shop.

While you are visiting Jessica's blog be sure to check out her Esty shop full of gorgeous gifts.

Hurry, giveaway closes Wednesday 11th January 2012 AEST.

FatQuarter Choice Aqua

2012-01-04T11:48:00.000+10:00

Laura at Quokka Quilts is holding a competition sponsored by the FatQuarterShop. all you have to do is choose 12 prints and 3 solids from the FatQuarterShop to make a designer bundle.

I had my tangerine / orange selection ready to go and someone beat me to it. Grey and charcoal was also taken so I opted for one of my favourite blenders - Aqua / turquoise. I don't use white as I have boys, dogs and red mud in and around my house so I use greys and aquas as backgrounds and highlights.

Aqua goes well with grey, charcoal, orange, citrus, reds, lime, purples, pink - really anything.

1. Ruby-55031-22-200, 2. Flora-25055-15-200, 3. Flora-25051-11-200, 4. SweetShoppe-3651-05-200, 5. LilyWillII-12402-14-200, 6. LilyWillII-12402-12-200, 7. Ruby-55035-12-200, 8. LittleApples-18515-13-200, 9. FSDesignerSolids-S20-AQUA-200, 10. PlainJane-CX1492-OCEA-D-200, 11. TaDot-CX1492-AQUA-D-200, 12. Ruby-55037-12-200, 13. SweetShoppe-3653-05-200, 14. LittleApples-18512-47-200, 15. Divine-33283-4-200

Dress up your Roll Competition

2012-01-02T14:36:00.001+10:00

Starting January 9th I will be hosting the 'Dress up your roll' competition. It is open to bloggers all over the world.

We have all made the Mug Rugs (Caffeine Carpets), Pot Holders, Dolls Quilts, Runners, Tree Skirts and Pillows but have we ever spared a thought for the humble toilet roll.

The toilet roll is always last to be best dressed. It is often hidden in the cupboard or left bare and exposed on the top of the toilet suite.

Dress me up, please.

I want to challenge all quilters and crafter to come up with some original ideas. Covers are simple and quick to make. They are a great way to use up scraps.

I will be posting a quick tutorial January 9th 2012 to kick off the competition.

Prizes:
The most original entries from Australia and overseas will receive the following prize:

The international winner receives a $100 gift voucher from my favourite on-line shop - Fat Quarter Shop

and

The Australian winner will receive a $100 gift voucher from my e-shop or one lap sized quilt (no larger than 65" x 65" ) professionally quilted by me (edge to edge. Winner provides backing, and return postage).

Rules:

1. Join the Flickr group

2. Make a fabric cover for your roll. Embellishments are permitted.

3. Post the picture(s) of your finished project on Flickr. If you wish to write a tutorial for your creation then add the link to the picture on Flickr.

4. You can enter has many times as you like.

5. Most importantly, don't forget to leave a way for me to contact you.

Competition starts 9th January 2012 and finishes 1st March 2012. The winners will be published on this blog 7th March 2012.

Free BOM - Penny Rug

2012-01-02T08:31:00.000+10:00

Melody from the House on the Side of the Hill will be hosting a 10 month free BOM to make a Penny Rug. All the fun starts on 9th January 2012.

Be sure to mark this date in your calendars and when visiting Melody's blog have a look at the Fabulous Free Stuff page. An ever growing page of free tutorials and patterns.

Yay, it's 2012

2012-01-01T09:40:00.001+10:00

Wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year. May it be filled with love, peace and piecing.

I have been off the air for a week enjoying Christmas with my very large and crazy family in Sydney. No PC, no sewing machine, no fabric ( except for my Spotlight Sale purchase ). I had to stare at this is all day.

The Bay

The beach

The fabric ( A bit of DS in there )

I have just arrived back to Brisbane on a 7am New Years Day flight ( Yawn ) to be greeted by the beautiful Queensland sunshine.

I have big plans for 2012. Lots of quilts (specially UFO's), publications, blocks, tutorials, giveaways and quiltalising (socialising with quilters). What do you have planned?

To kick off the New Year I will announce the winner of the California Girl Layer Cake.

The winner of this luscious new collection from Fig Tree Quilts for Moda had to guess my favourite food, colour and country.

There was only one person that guessed the correct answer and it was:

Mrs.Hearts said...

Tomatoes
Turkey
Turquoise

Mrs.Hearts
www.busyhandsquilts.blogspot.com

I LOVE LOVE LOVE tomatoes even though I talk about chocolate all the time. I eat them every day with cracked pepper and sea salt.

While I lived in France for a year, I did travel to Turkey and it became one of my favourite foreign countries and Turquoise reminds me of the sea of Turkey and the bay I group up on. I like to place a splash of Turquoise in most of my quilts.

This month I will be offering something BIG in the giveaway stakes. Make sure you visit over the next few days to see what is being offered.

Until then, stay safe and enjoy this glorious new year.

P.S Until 7th Jan 2012 midnight I have 10% of all Jelly Rolls in my little e-shop. Just enter 10JELLY at check-out.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T00:00:00.002+10:00

I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Thank you for all your support throughout 2011.

Stay Safe and Loved. See you all next year.

Jane xo