getcrafty :: popular topics :: quilting :: quilt

View entire thread: Greetings One and All!!

Posted by WildPurple on 2005-03-25 16:20:07      Post Subject: Greetings One and All!!



Hi there! I am posting here as well. I can't believe all the places to post our crafty goodness!

For your viewing pleasure is my Art Quilt # 2.

http://members.sparedollar.com/wildpurple/artquilt2.jpg



<font color=purple>2nd in a series. Made from a crazy quilt top. This is 11" in diameter.

http://members.sparedollar.com/wildpurple/artquilt2a.jpg

Embellished with Czech and Japanese seed beads, bugle beads, silver and bronze beads, vintage buttons, embroidery,sequins, tulle, fabric scraps and couching in acrylic yarn and lots of hand quilting. Batting is 1/4" thick and backed with purple and white gingham.

http://members.sparedollar.com/wildpurple/artquilt2b.jpg

Close up of fabric scraps under tulle held in place with beading,and lots of handquilting, couching and embroidery.

See more at www.livejournal.com/~wildpurple

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View entire thread: Bulk Quilt Batting?

Posted by quornflour on 2008-08-31 23:24:47      Post Subject: Bulk Quilt Batting?

Does anyone know where to get cotton quilt batting by the roll?
I have currently 4 quilts that I need to finish and was thinking it might be better to buy it by the roll. Any ideas?

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View entire thread: Spokane, WA and vicinity

Posted by homuncula on 2005-08-13 16:20:09      Post Subject: Spokane, WA and vicinity

Well, I'm finally escaping from the evil Midwest, hooray! I'll be back in my old stomping grounds of Spokane, WA on Sept. 1. Anybody out there? I don't knit (how uncool am I?!) but I sew, quilt, thrift, garden, and try to crochet... it would be superfun to meet up with some crafty gals!

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View entire thread: Hello from North Carolina

Posted by micrafty on 2006-07-24 17:28:15      Post Subject: Hello from North Carolina

Hi All,

New here (as if post count didn't give that one away). Have seen comments about this site on Craftster, but never visited. I've been on that site for a few years (itscribe) and most often contribute by helping others to improve their crafty websites and give some suggestions on crochet every now and again. I hope to do that here too.

I love the Open Letter To... thread. Every forum should have one of those.

I am a reformed computer nerd and am now a website content writer by trade, love to craft (crochet, cross stitch, sew, quilt, and whatever else looks interesting), and have been craft-deprived working on my websites.

My latest site is CraftyTips.com an arts and crafts directory. It's only getting started, so I would like to invite you to take a look around. In exchange for a crafty tip, craft-related website owners can get backlinks to their site for free.

Regards,
michele

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View entire thread: afghans for afghans needs your knit/crocheted kid's stuff!

Posted by go-fish on 2005-08-19 23:14:29      Post Subject: afghans for afghans needs your knit/crocheted kid's stuff!

http://www.afghansforafghans.org is doing a drive right now that I haven't seen mentioned on these boards. Their goal is to donate knit or crocheted WOOL items to 5,000 kids in afghanistan this winter. They did this drive two years ago and did not meet their goal, but distributed a bunch of warm items to kids in an institution that were living with very little heat in an area with severe winters nevertheless. they are giving it another try and it would be great to see this one go off a big success! BUT...
the newsletter I got yesterday said that they are currently at 20% of the goal, which means they need 4,000 more items by mid september!
What they are asking for are socks, mittens, hats, vest and sweaters (no scarves) that are 100% wool for real warmth. (some alpaca or mohair is okay, I guess, but sheep's wool is preferred.) They have free patterns at the site, lots of them last time I checked.
The deadlines are:
Sept. 16 for the U.S.
Sept. 9 for Canada
These are the dates they want to have the stuff by.
there are several craft groups doing special challenges for this drive. You can read about them at the main website, I imagine. We also have a quilt square drive happening here at Supernaturale.
the more the word gets out about this, the better! so whether or not you can make something for it, please tell the folks at your local S'n'B or yarn store.
Oh, and the address to send stuff to is on the main site as well.
Okay, thanks for reading this pitch!

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View entire thread: How to creat a quilt from crochet blocks for a baby

Posted by Sara L. Gardner on 2006-10-16 16:52:03      Post Subject: How to creat a quilt from crochet blocks for a baby

Hi
I need some advice. My grandmother made some crocheted quilt blocks for my son about 36 years ago. They have never been put into a quilt, he is about to become a father for the first time. It will be her great great grandson.
My problem is that they are crochet and never been blocked. They measure on the average about 10 inches X 8 inches. There are 13 blocks. I don't have the time to make plain crocheted blocks as spacers and I'm sure that my blocks would not match my grandmother's. Additionally, I want to minimize places for little fingers to get caught.
I need suggestions on how to mount them (?) or how to space them with fluffly blocks inbetween with a quilt back (?) or any ideas that any of you may have, I want this quilt to be around for a long time.
Thank you...

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View entire thread: Help for a beginning quilter!

Posted by Letter_to_the_world on 2007-07-24 14:34:01      Post Subject: Help for a beginning quilter!

I''ve stumbled on this fun site while searching desperately for some help with my beginning quilting attempts. Hopefully you ladies can lend a hand!

I''ve been quilting for a maybe a year. I barely sewed before that. I''ve made a pillow, a baby quilt, and a table runner. Actually, I''m finishing the table runner now, and am just *not* happy with how it came out! My corners never match, my batting always gets bumpy -- I can''t even seem to rotary cut straight. There aren''t any quilting classes around that are available to me, but I like the looks of the Quilt University website I found. Only problem is the beginners class doesn''t start until mid-September. So until then, I want to use my extra summer time to practice as much as I can.

Maybe there''s a great book out there for beginning quilters (I have a Quilting 101 book and a book by Carol Doak that I use right now) that I don''t know about -- or maybe one for sewers, because really that would be just as helpful. Or maybe another online resource that could give me tips/lessons to try out. I love new projects, but in general just feel very inept, especially when it comes to anything that needs to be straight!

Thanks in advance for the help!

:)Courtney

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View entire thread: Machine for years but don''t know how to use aching to learn

Posted by lizzymahoney on 2007-09-17 13:45:01      Post Subject:

I don't live in Tennessee. However, why not try the churches and places of worship, or ask all the neighbors and friends about their service orgs?

There's a quilt made of discarded things called an Ugly Quilt. I'm sure you can find it with a google or ask.com search. Ugly quilts started out of some woman's living room, moved to a church and then started up at other churches. The idea is to make inexpensive large quilts that tie in a neat bundle for homeless people. The size is adequate for a mother and child to sleep in it if necessary. It would be lots of seam ripping for the reclaimed fabrics, and lots of straight stitching.

If you can find people in your area making Ugly Quilts, you can almost certainly find someone to work with you to learn your machine.

There are plenty of books that are basic sewing guides. I've collected most of them, sad to say. Good Housekeeping, Singer, Readers Digest and others have these thick books with loads of diagrams showing how to thread most machines, how to clean and care for it, and the all important how to adjust tension. You can find these types of books at used book stores and at thrifts. Try all the used bookstores first, though. Maybe try amazon and ebay, too. Thrifts are iffy... Especially if people like me buy them first.

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View entire thread: Tattoo quilt

Posted by kuni17 on 2007-08-08 23:10:52      Post Subject: Tattoo quilt

In \"Craft\" magazine \"Volume 03\" there was an article regarding a quilt made by \"Wende Stitt\". It was a quilt of tattoo art that she had made for a friend that had passed away. Now I am nowhere near the quilting artist as Wende Stitt but I would like to make something like that for my neices and nephews. But I am puzzled as to how the tattoo art was transformed into fabric. I have no clue as to how the whole \"scan, transfer, picture to iron on fabric\" deal. Please help. I am tired of standing in front of the \"notions\" wall at Joannes Fabric Store hoping that a big light bulb will appear over my head.

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View entire thread: How many crafts do you know?

Posted by beqi on 2008-09-17 10:47:07      Post Subject:

This is a fun thread! I can sew, make patterns, crosshatch, make beaded jewelry, make felt appliques, draw, paint, write prose and poetry, make soaps, take art photographs, make stuffed animals, quilt, and make jewelry by using repurposed found vintage jewelry findings.

I can't knit or crochet, though. Sometimes I want to learn, but I think another craft obsession is one too many. :)

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View entire thread: Washing antique quilts

Posted by sarabell on 2007-12-28 16:10:25      Post Subject:

i'd get them professionally cleaned. costly but worth it when you consider the potential risk... i washed a quilt that was mine as a baby on the gentle cycle and wound up with some shredding. and that quilt would probably only be considered "vintage" not antique!

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View entire thread: sewing with unfinished frayed edges...help!!

Posted by sheepnoirfiber on 2007-05-10 23:13:02      Post Subject: howdy

I figure you could do this just like you would a rag quilt. Cotton would work perfectly as it frays and softens up in the wash. If you have a fabric you''d like to use, you could test it by washing it normally and seeing how the edges handle the wash.

I''m thinking you could even \"crazy quit\" your cotton pieces together (whether they''re the same color/pattern or not) then just cut out your pattern pieces form those \"sheets\" you pieced together.

Other than that, if you just want to have the seams showing, sew it inside out! wrong sides together and you have the frayed edges showing. If you want really frayed look, do like the rag quilt and add more seam allowance than normal and clip the edges every 1/2 or 1/4 inch depending on the fabric, or piece. then wash/dry. voila! instant rag-frayed goodness. ta! =0)

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View entire thread: Extending the life of kids clothing

Posted by cassie on 2007-10-11 06:46:54      Post Subject:

Good job! My friend gave me all her boy's baby-grows to make into a patchwork quilt for him, that's a good idea for the clothes that are stained with orange baby food - just use the backs :)

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View entire thread: history of wedding ring/double wedding ring quilts

Posted by Athos on 2007-04-03 04:34:00      Post Subject:

That sounds like such a lovely idea, good luck with the project!

I'm getting married this summer, and plan to make a wedding quilt as well. I am looking into patterns for a coin quilt, because I'm really new to quilting.

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View entire thread: history of wedding ring/double wedding ring quilts

Posted by abryson615 on 2007-03-21 08:51:23      Post Subject: history of wedding ring/double wedding ring quilts

Hello everyone,

My aunt and I are making a double wedding ring quilt together for my parents'' 25th wedding anniversary. I was hoping someone knew, or could direct me to some information about their history. I know that it''s a traditional wedding quilt (that much is obvious) but I was hoping to learn more. If anyone knows anything or knows of a good website with information rather than patterns, please let me know!

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View entire thread: quilters in downtown Toronto?

Posted by hodge on 2005-09-11 09:01:33      Post Subject:

i'm not sure about existing quilting clubs in downtown t.o., but you could get in touch with the textile museum of canada (http://www.textilemuseum.ca) and ask if they know of any (they have lots of volunteers who are quilters i think). there is also a quilt shop on mt. pleasant near davisville that you could contact (not downtown downtown, but i think this is the closest quiltshop to downtown downtown): Quilter's Quarters (595 Mount Pleasant Rd., 416-487-1047)

another option is starting one up yourself. i am also a beginner quilter (very into modern quilts like Denyse Schmidt and quilted accessories) and really eager to learn more. i would love to do something like a quilt-along - choosing a project with a group and coming together to check out each other's progress, swap tips, etc. i just finished a big project and need to hibernate for a bit, but would be into something like this eventually. PM me if you would like to talk about this idea some more.

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View entire thread: new blog

Posted by sewchristine on 2008-02-04 08:19:48      Post Subject: new blog

Hi I''m new on this site and I thought I''d let you know about myself. I live in the UK and I sew, quilt, make bags and blog. I love all crafts although my knitting isn''t up to much! You can see my blog here: http://sewchristine.blogspot.com and currently I have a tutorial for sewing a glasses case to hold 2 pair of glasses. I also try to sell my bags and quilts on Etsy but I don''t sell much.

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View entire thread: Help for a beginning quilter!

Posted by Leonie on 2007-08-06 10:54:56      Post Subject:

You can try to find "how to videos" on the web. I've made a baby quilt following instructions of free instruction videos on the web. Sadly I can not remember the website...

good luck!

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View entire thread: Akron Area Crafters.....

Posted by bessiemae on 2005-10-12 16:25:13      Post Subject: Akron Area Crafters.....

Calling all Rubber City Grrrls....

Forming a new Crafty Group to meet in Kent, so as not to compete with SnB Akron.

Decoupage? Bead? Cut and Paste? Quilt? Knit? Crochet? Embroidery?

If you do it and can pack it to go, bring it on!

Don't do anything, but wanna learn? Come and play, anyway!

Just pm me here at GetCrafty. Tenative meetings Wednesday PM's after 6pm, in Kent.....temporary meeting locale across from campus!

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View entire thread: LongArm Quilting

Posted by quornflour on 2007-02-14 00:34:11      Post Subject: LongArm Quilting

I have been making quilts for a while now... as I would love to own my own longarm, I sadly have no room.
I am curious if anyone has sent their quilts off?
How much did it cost?
Was there a quantity discount available?
I have a corduroy quilt that simply will not fit in my machine and I do not want to tie it off:
http://www.quornflour.com/voxBlog/corduroyQuiltFullTreeSM.JPGhttp://www.quornflour.com/voxBlog/corduroyQuiltFullSM.JPG
As well, I am working on one that I would like a design put on.

So please let me know if you have any recomendations or good places or warning on the bad... or a house that I can have that comes with a long arm, I'll take that too.

Seriously though, anyone?

~Q

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View entire thread: Selling Quilts - etsy - other?

Posted by quornflour on 2006-11-15 15:04:01      Post Subject: Selling Quilts - etsy - other?

So as I have been working on this last quilt, I was thinking that I should probably finally open my ETSY shop... 'cause I do not really know what to do with it and have another quilt that I have not done anything with for about a year now.
I have a few questions though:
has anyone sold any quilts on etsy? How much did it go for? It is not really worth selling for less than $450-$500 given the cost of goods and the time it takes. (quilt size on average is 108"x108" or really close to that)

I have other stuff I can list too but that is no brainer stuff, I am most interested in the quilt stuff... others experiences ~ or of course anyone who wants to buy one :)

thoughts?

~Q

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View entire thread: Pictures on quilts?

Posted by Karen1948 on 2006-09-04 19:40:43      Post Subject:

The informaation I am providing is from a package of inkjet fabric sheets which were used to produce a wedding quilt this summer. It was purchased at he big store that was in the States and has migrated into Canada in the last 10+ years. I'm not sure about rules regarding naming specific businesses in these replies. It can be viewed on a website www.junetailor.com -- I haven't checked this site myself but assume you can purchase it from that source also. The package I am looking at had 10 white fabric 8-1/2" X 11" sheets in it. It has a light green background with a picture of a lady working on a sewing machine making quilt blocks. I hope this is helpful.

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View entire thread: Making the ordinary beautiful

Posted by anthrogirl on 2006-11-02 13:48:35      Post Subject: Making the ordinary beautiful

You might call this a continuation of several threads that have been going on.

I thought about why the ' this ain't your grandma's ____' statement bothers me. And I finally figured it out.

My husband and I were both collectors. He loved old electrical equipment. I love old kitchen items. However, I kept most of my collecting to a minimum. Every once in a while though, we'd be in upstate NY, and I'd see wonderfully embroidered items. What I loved about them is that even though they were kitschy, they were useful. They reminded me of a quilt I own that was made by my paternal great-great grandmother, in that some anonymous woman had tried to make her world a little bit more pretty.

The other day I was on line looking up infor for the Charity Project here, and saw a site that sells dishcloth embroidery pattern- several were for 'mammy' stuff. Now, a few years ago, I would have gotten offended. But a few years ago I wasn't trying to decorate my kitchen 1930s style, I wasn't channelling my dead maternal grandmother who had tons of those kitschy kitchen items, and I wasn't as appreciative of both the irony and reclamation of black history by having these items. And as I was figuring out which pattern I had to have, the whole thing came together in my head. On both sides of my family I come from crafters. Both my mother and father are handy. My grandparents, great grandparents, and who knows how many generations back were handy. Unlike many members of the new craft revolution, I didn't grow up on frozen dinners and ready-made items. I also didn't grow up with badly made craft items like the ones associated with thrift shops. No one in my family ever made tie-dyed vests during the 60s- they were all busy putting food on the table and going to marches.
But as I looked at the 'mammyware', I fell in love, but not for the simple kitsch value. My favorite towel pattern was one marked 'Sunday', in which the woman was resting by reading. Except for the bandanna, she was me.

Now I happen to be a great lover of art, but I also know art is where you find it. Art can be found in an artisanship of craft that tries to make everyday objects more beautiful, particularly ina bleak world. Up until a few days ago I didn't really undeerstand why my grandmother, the descendent of slaves, would have wanted mammy and pappy spice shakers, but now I know that in her world, they were the only portraits of herself and the people she knew that were real. When she was born on a remote farm, there was no radio, no tv, no anything- even Jesus was white. but happy, smiling black people? She could relate to them. On my father's side, there was nothing kitschy about making a quilt. It was real, and it was the only inheritance a woman had to give. These things weren't sleepaway camp projects, or items made for a jumble sale, or a way of recycling junk. They encapsulated a world, a world in which poor people with very little made do, but also made what they had into decorative objects within a relatively small vernacular. The real question isn't whether making a handbag out of popcicle sticks is ironic or not (and what is the irony, anyway, since women have been crafting bags out of such objects for quite a while); for me, the question is how I can use crafting as a way of channelling my ancestors and honoring them, while at the same time, making something beautiful and potentially lasting. If I can use old techniques to make new things but still, in a tiny way, address the ways in which women's work is often deemed irrelevent even when it is sometimes the only way to leave behind an historical and cultural record that matters, then I don't have to feel superior to my grandmothers. Instead of making something to please my momentary whim for the hip, the quaint, the unusual, and the bizarre, I can create gifts for my virtual granddaughters and grandsons that will show how my generation defined itself. The real irony will be when the mammy dishtowel kit arrives and I start sewing it, but imbue those pictures with a different meaning because the woman doing it will be a well-educated granddaughter of black tenant farmers on one side, and of black people who somehow came to own property in South Carolina in the 1910s, on the other. Why? Because on that Sunday dish towel, Mammy will be reading a book with an embroidered title by Zora Neale Hurston, the first black anthropologist.

So my question is, what have you made, or will you make, to create a more beautiful and lasting world for yourself?

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View entire thread: knittin' in KCMO

Posted by Diana on 2006-01-03 13:37:10      Post Subject: knitting group in Kansas City

I don't knit, but I'd love another textile person to get together with. I quilt, cross stitch and do just about anything else with a needle. Unfortunately knitting and rug hooking messed with my hands. I'm in Independence, Mo. and have been searching for some other textile junkies to share time and stash with.

Diana the librarian

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View entire thread: Quilting Inquiry....

Posted by Diana on 2006-08-14 20:13:23      Post Subject:

Back sooner than I expected. Here are some recomendations for quilt books: The everything quilting book by Sandra Detrixhe,
Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Quilting, Quilting for The First Time by Donna Kooler (has some nice projects), 10-20-30 minutes to learn paper-piecing by Jodie Davis, Quilting for Dummies by Cheryl Fall (I hate the title, but it is a very good basic guide), The Magic of Crazy Quilting: a complete Resource for Embellished Quilting by J. Marsha Michler (crazy quilting is my personal favourite), and The Portable Crafter: Quilting by Mary Jo Hiney (some very contemporary looking projects). Try to stay with the American, not British, books as it will be less confusing when you are just starting out. The terms differ as well as measurements. I personally do not like the Quilt in a Day book series by Eleanor Burns as I feel they have poor instructions and are sorely lacking in any kind of artistry that one should see in a quilt. Not to mention that you cannot finish a quilt in a day!! And take advantage of the free advice at your local quilt shop. Just go in and tell them you are a beginner and you will have all the help you could ever ask for from both the staff and other customers. And just let me know if I can help with anything. Now get some fabric and enjoy yourself!!

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View entire thread: Embroidery transfer methods

Posted by Karen1948 on 2006-09-04 19:29:16      Post Subject: Embroidery transfer methods

I have embroidered since I was a young girl -- probably 8 or 9 years of age. I began collecting embroidery hot transfer patterns soon after age 10 (I'm now approaching 60 and still have most of the ones I purchased as well as my Mother's collection). Many of the patterns will no longer transfer with a hot iron, and I am looking for a method of continuing to use the ones I have. I have a visual impairment that causes some problems when I try to use a pencil and tracing paper under the image. I haven't tried the "punch and pounce" method but suspect that I would have difficulty with it. I am looking for some method of ttransferring -- I believe there is something similar to the material that is available to transfer photos onto quilt blocks which my son's partner used this summer. However, since I don't know what to ask for I haven't been able to find another way of using my old transfer patterns. If anyone can help, I would be grateful.

Karen1948

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View entire thread: my little quilting adventure

Posted by di521 on 2005-09-12 13:53:53      Post Subject: my little quilting adventure

i'm fairly new here, but i have to share my first quilt story with people who would hopefully understand.... my husband's best friend was getting married and i wanted to give them something really special, so we settled on a quilt. two weeks before. and i'd never made one before. god was i stupid. i worked on it night after night and got tripped up on a few parts where i just didn't know what to do. one night my neighbors got treated to a string of salty expletives as i embroidered their initials and a couple nights later they must've heard my machine pounding away until frickin 3 a.m. with me alternately sobbing and swearing in frustration. BUT, i finished just in time, it matches their bedroom beautifully and they LOVED it!! a couple spots aren't perfect, but i'm pretty amazed at how well it turned out (just a simple patchwork, no designs or anything). a lot of people think i'm insane for a) trying it at all and b) getting so emotional over it. i guess that's what happens when a procrastinator crafts :)

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View entire thread: questions for the quilters out there

Posted by researchasaurus on 2006-03-11 15:01:03      Post Subject:

That is a Hard Question Ultimately Involving Math.

I don't have a lot of exp with quilting myself, having only ever finished one lap-sized one, but if it helps, I used four kinds of fabric and bought one yard of each of three of the colors and two yards of the fourth, so I could use it to make a self-binding. I cut my squares 3x3 and then it was just a patchwork thing. And I probably have enough 3x3 squares left to make another quilt the same size too!

Maybe some graph paper would help you--you can sketch out a rough design plan, then assign the finished measurements for your quilt and divide the square sizes from there. Does that make sense?

This is what my quilt looks like:

http://www.stepintomythimble.com/gallery2/d/1350-3/Finished+Objects+2006.jpg

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View entire thread: Quilt Block Swap

Posted by auclaire on 2005-03-14 04:21:29      Post Subject:

I would love to do a quilt block swap, but I'm moving in a couple of weeks and I've had to pack all my sewing supplies. (I had to pack them first...they're just too tempting).

If you decide to do this swap again in a month or so, I'm in!

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View entire thread: Chicagoland Fabric Stores

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2005-02-10 12:20:44      Post Subject: Chicagoland Fabric Stores

I'm thinking about escaping the State Of Indiana this or next weekend and visiting Ikea (it's been a looooooong time and I need a fix!!!!!). Since Ikea is open Sunday, I thought I would use Saturday to visit stores only open on Saturday -- like most speciality fabric stores!! I'm looking for home decor shops as well as high quality quilt shops.

If you want to throw in a recommendation for cool shops near your fabric store recommendation, i'd love it!

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View entire thread: Selling Quilts - etsy - other?

Posted by craftfetish on 2006-11-16 11:00:41      Post Subject:

I am not a quilter, so this is just speculation, but...

I don't think that I would spend hundreds of dollars on a quilt without seeing it in real life, touching the fabric, seeing the construction, etc.

I would think etsy would be a better venue for smaller pieces like baby quilts, handbags, or art blocks than full size quilts.

But I also think that etsy would be great for people that may have seen your work in person at a craft fair and wanted to think about the decision before buying.

And I think if you did large pieces because they moved you, the $0.40 or whatever to list them would certainly pay off in terms of calling attention and attracting customers to your smaller items.

And who knows, maybe someone less cheap than me would be purchase through the site.

(The quilt you made for your sister is stunning by the way - you absolutely should make more quilts and price them accordingly)

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View entire thread: Selling Quilts - etsy - other?

Posted by msfish on 2006-11-17 13:35:50      Post Subject:

it's so inexpensive to list on etsy that it might be worth doing even if you don't expect results - and hey, you never know, right?

since you're in the seattle area, i'd imagine there are some local craft collectives or co-ops that might be able to sell your quilt on consignment. i don't know the area very well, so i don't know what's available, but my mother belongs to one in northern california (http://www.arteryart.com/About%20the%20Gallery.htm) and has had great success selling her pricier work (handmade baskets that retail from around $75-$200). i know they carry fine textiles (quilts, woven blankets) that are priced around what you would ask for your quilt (you have to be able to volunteer in the gallery to sell there, so this one wouldn't work, but i'd guess that you could find similar places in washington).

good luck - your work is beautiful, and i know you'll find someone who can give you what you deserve for it!

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View entire thread: looking for craft stores in Duluth

Posted by amaryllis on 2006-06-09 07:31:05      Post Subject:

I have yet to quilt but I dropped by this shop and they had some nice yarn:


SHARE THE SPIRIT QUILTING & YARN
3129 MAIN ST STE B
678-473-4617

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View entire thread: what to do with postcards?

Posted by kitchensqueen on 2008-03-17 18:22:21      Post Subject:

You could frame them, or do a scrapbook (instead of just slipping them into album sleeves), display them under glass on a table, sew them into a paper quilt to hang onto wall, photocopy them and them print them on fabric and make a real quilt, pillows or a tablecloth... that's really all I can think of at the moment.

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View entire thread: quilters in downtown Toronto?

Posted by rubychew on 2005-09-05 21:29:41      Post Subject: quilters in downtown Toronto?

I would like to learn how to quilt and hang out with other quilters. I've looked on line and have found a few quilters clubs in the Toronto suburbs..but I live downtown and don't have a car.

if anyone knows of any quilters clubs in downtown Toronto, I'd love to hear from you

thanks

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View entire thread: AD: Hand made buttons (Sewing) Primitive Style

Posted by missyballance on 2006-12-29 01:08:57      Post Subject:

They sound really cute! They sound like something that would be marketable at quilt shops where they selll the patterns and wool felt for that sort of thing! I definately think you can market that type of thing!

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View entire thread: Felted bracelets

Posted by Morgan on 2004-12-19 04:34:06      Post Subject: Felted bracelets

These are my first attempts at felting bracelets. They turned out pretty well, if I do say so myself.

Here's one with different size felt beads, some of which are embroidered with little snowflakes:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/m8888888/quilt/feltbracelet.jpg

Here are two plain round ones:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/m8888888/quilt/roundbracelet.jpg

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View entire thread: Best transfer paper?

Posted by lady4feet on 2005-03-02 17:56:27      Post Subject: Best transfer paper?

I was looking at a quiliting book today and decided I want to make a memory quilt for my mom. It's when you transfer a photo to fabric and make it into whatever you want. Anyone have any experience with this? Is it very difficault? It sounded nice and simple. What's the best kind of transfer paper to use? Thank for your help.

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View entire thread: Quilt Block Swap

Posted by kdaum on 2005-03-08 14:47:58      Post Subject: Quilt Block Swap

Hello Everyone,

This is my first time putting together a swap, so please bare with me.
Back when I was little, I always remember attending my mom's quilt club and seeing the other ladies' work. I remember that they used to swap blocks to use in quilts. Don't fret, that is not exactly what I had in mind.

What I am thinking is this:
Each participant makes one 12" block, which must be completely sewn-So no gluing or stapling. You must do some sort of embellishment to it with cross-stitch, needlework, yarn, applique, adding buttons, etc. The only other pre-requisite is that the base fabric/fabrics be made of 100% cotton and that the piece be hand-washable. So stay away from sequins, please.

How much work you put into it is purely up to you; but just think of what you would want to get in return. You will have a month to finish and then ship it to a fellow swapper. If everyone is honorable (which I know you all are), you in turn will receive a block as well. This swap is a little more complex; but I think in the end everyone will be happy with what they receive.

If you are interested or have any questions, please let me know.
The deadline to sign up will be March 15th. At that time I will email you the name of the person that you should send your block to. It won't necessarily be the same person that is sending theirs to you.

Thanks, Kristy

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View entire thread: Making a quilt with a sewing machine

Posted by bookish on 2004-10-07 11:35:50      Post Subject:

This is a pretty vague overview- you are welcome to PM me with more specific questions... I've been making quilts for a couple years now.

1. cut strips for the top. An easy way to do this would be to use fabric with the same width (ie. 45") and to make this the width of your quilt and then to make it about 60" long. This is the standard size that I make because it is just so darn easy to work with. Your quilt would then look as though it is horizontal lines- which is a good look to showcase the actual fabric. Squares and blocks need to be more precise and are time consuming.

2. Sew the strips together- this is your quilt top.

3. Cut batting (I prefer flannel) and a backing the same size as your quilt.

4. Use a BUNCH of safety pins and pin all three layers together- the more pins you use, the better your quilt will look.

5. Quilt by running machine stitching through all three pieces.

6. Use quilt binding to sew all three layers together around the edges- you may want to find a library book with instructions for "mitering the corners"

Good luck!

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View entire thread: Hanging a handmade infant comforter on the wall

Posted by deborahthecraft on 2004-07-13 19:14:20      Post Subject:

A quilt hanger or add a couple of loops of ribbon and hang it on a curtain rod set up attatched to the wall.

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View entire thread: Tsunami relief quilting project

Posted by researchasaurus on 2005-01-20 14:18:36      Post Subject: Tsunami relief quilting project

Hey everyone,

I have been reading about an international quilting project that will help raise funds for the tsunami relief efforts in south Asia. It is:

http://kukulla.tripod.com/tsunami/tsunami.html

Basically you make one square for a quilt and send it to the coordinator, in Spain. You can make it out of anything fibery, it can be knitted or sewn or felted or otherwise made up. There are some pictures of finished squares already over here:

http://www.flickr.com/groups/66915032@N00/pool/

This totally seems like the kind of thing Get Crafty people would contribute to, so if it's already been posted here, forgive me.

Anyway, I'm going to contribute a square shortly. The deadline is February 15.

Heidi

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View entire thread: Tsunami Quilt

Posted by Marta on 2005-01-04 12:19:58      Post Subject: Tsunami Quilt

I would like to invite you to join this collaborative project. The objective is to create a hanging quilt that will be auctioned on ebay on behalf of the Tsunami Victims. I would like that we could create a inspiring quilt that will assemble different fabric arts and crafts, and send a message of hope to those who have lost everything. So please create one or more squares and send them to me to be assembled. I'll post pictures as soon as you send them. If you find this project interesting please feel free to share it with your friends, groups, in newsletters etc.

This is an project open to everyone.

To participate please create a 15 x 15 cm square (aprox. 6 inches square) out of a textile medium and embellish your contribution.

The square can be of fabric, wool, felt or something else that you can figure out. Beads, threads, fabric manipulation, collage, quilt, transfer, paints... all mediums are welcomed

***Do you think it is a good idea to embroider your place of origin on their squares? Envisioning an international quilt?.

When you are done please send your contribution in an envelope to:

Marta Santiago Jimenez
c/General Alvarez de Castro 16 1A
Madrid 28010
Spain

All squares will be assembled in a quilt. that will be sold at ebay. All proceeds will be donated to UNICEF to provide relief from the Sumatra earthquake.

***If any of you have any PR (Public Relations) experience and is willing to help find more upmarket auctions, please contact me

Please send your address in the envelope to include a complete list of participants.
Deadline: 02/15/2005

Please email any questions.
Feel free to link to the tsunami quilt site:

http://kukulla.tripod.com/tsunami/tsunami.html
Marta in Spain

http://wabisabi.blogs.com

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View entire thread: Craft group in Independence missouri

Posted by kate1214 on 2006-07-15 15:54:58      Post Subject: quilting group in independence missouri

I have just become interested in learning how to quilt. Am looking for a group in independence, missouri, preferably free, because I'm not sure I'll stick with this new interest.

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View entire thread: Ever not want to relinquish crafty gifts?

Posted by quornflour on 2006-09-09 16:56:42      Post Subject:

I almost did not send Bessiemae the quilt I made as a birthday present because I thought it went really nicely with and other quilt I had made for myself. A few of my friends said that I should just make something else that was nice and send that instead. In the end I put it in a box and took it straight to the post-office without even adding a few other random things I had picked up for her and mailed it before I changed my mind.

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View entire thread: GORGEOUS brocade scraps... what to do?

Posted by craftfetish on 2006-10-31 08:38:34      Post Subject:

Could you piece together an art quilt wall hanging?

If the pieces are small, you could use them as a trim in the same style as your table runner, but on a smaller scale. Maybe coordinating placemats or napkins or napkin rings?

Some folks around here have made some really beautiful fabric flowers. Or maybe you could use that iron on thick-em maker stuff (I don't quilt - so I don't know the real name - but I'm sure you've used it) to make a fabric you could essentially do oragami with. A folded fabric bird might be a cool addition to any centerpiece you may use.

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View entire thread: New Domesticy Gallery Show in the works

Posted by gladygirl on 2005-11-01 09:23:31      Post Subject:

Small world indeed...I went to CCAD and have taught there as an adjunct as well!

There is an annual event called the Quilt Surface Design Symposium (qsds.com) where art quilters come from all over the country and the world really for week-end and week-long classes. It was started about 15 years ago by Nancy Crow and Linda Fowler, who are big in the art quilt world.

I took a week-long class with Susan in 2004 and the whole thing was just amazing...the energy of all these creative women at different places in there lives was the most inspiring thing I've been involved with. Many of these people attend every year, and I probably will too.

Susan said that when she was an art student in the '70's a feminist speaker (I can't remember who) told her that women artists have a duty to tell women's stories, and I think that doing it in a traditionally "female" medium like sewing adds another layer. That's why I find it so cool that younger women are embracng things like sewing, quilting and knitting (and child rearing as well) and part of their feminist indentity. I don't remember that being the case so much when I was younger (I'm 37).

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View entire thread: T Shirt explosions

Posted by shuvaly on 2005-08-22 13:41:46      Post Subject: T Shirt explosions

hey, I have a buch of old youth group t shirts that I want to make something out of. I've see quilts, but I don't need another quilt!

Help me please!

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View entire thread: Hello from Montreal!

Posted by VelveteenRabbit on 2006-11-02 08:20:51      Post Subject:

Thanks for the responses! :)
I don't sell my baby quilts on etsy -- they've all been made/given as gifts! But I do have photos I can share.

This is my latest one:
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c82/nickstokesfan/babygio.jpg

An original design for my boyfriend's nephew
The first one I ever made (which I'm keeping for myself)
For a cousin's baby
The only quilt that was commissioned and bought
A lap quilt for my cousin and her husband
For yet another cousin's baby
For a friend's baby
For another friend's baby

And I think that's it! :) Hope you enjoyed looking at them.
(If you browse through my blog, you'll find other stuff I've made - www.annhovsepian.blogspot.com - and if you really want to see my etsy shop (I still have to add stuff to it), that's www.annhovsepian.etsy.com.)

Thanks,
Ann-Margret

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View entire thread: Bracelets from the swap

Posted by Morgan on 2004-12-19 04:51:57      Post Subject: Bracelets from the swap

Here are the two bracelets I sent to Pinguino for the bracelet swap. So Pinguino!! STOP READING if you want to be surprised, because I just mailed them last week, & since mail is so slow because of Xmas, you probably won't get them 'til next week at least. But I couldn't wait to show them off!
A button bracelet:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/m8888888/quilt/buttonbracelet.jpg
One with teardrop beads in between swarvroski crystal & silver beads:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/m8888888/quilt/flashybracelet.jpg

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View entire thread: my little quilting adventure

Posted by smudgy_cat on 2005-09-13 01:49:39      Post Subject:

My first (and only) quilt square caused me to cuss so much. It's not made with love if it hasn't been christened with #$@(%*

Congrats on the finished project!

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View entire thread: sewing

Posted by xuli on 2004-11-23 10:25:18      Post Subject:

I'm making a denim quilt from jeans belonging to me and my bf -- together we have enough pairs for a queen-size quilt. It's a tied quilt, because there's no way I'm doing a quilt stitch through denim! Still, it looks really good and I'm really excited about it. It's slow going (and I haven't worked on it in awhile since I'm in a Christmas knitting frenzy), but someday I'll post pics of the finished product. Someday.

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View entire thread: Hand Tied Quilts Hazardous for Babies?

Posted by Marcie on 2007-10-21 10:04:35      Post Subject:

What is the difference between a hand tied quilt and a regular quilt?

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View entire thread: I started a quilt-along...

Posted by quornflour on 2006-01-03 00:11:52      Post Subject:

How does a quilt-a-long work exactly?
I am fairly new to quilting... though I am just about to finish my fourth one (that is what happens when work is slow). I am all about crazy quilts (much easier on my brain).
I am also trying to organize a crazy quilt square swap in "swaps"...

Let me know how it works I am very interseted to know more.

- Q

email: quornlfour@gmail.com
blog: http://spaces.msn.com/members/quornflour/

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View entire thread: I started a quilt-along...

Posted by researchasaurus on 2005-12-31 08:25:58      Post Subject:

Hi Sarah! I'm totally joining this lovely quilt-along. I will email you right now.

My blog is an all-purpose craft/food/life blog with heavy emphasis on knitting, but I already have my first quilt top almost finished (it's crib sized) and I'm about to get to the scary stuff--actual quilting, binding, etc. I have NO IDEA how to do either of those so I will be glad to have some support!

Thank you for organizing this!
Heidi

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View entire thread: Making a quilt with a sewing machine

Posted by dolly_haze on 2004-10-07 11:23:36      Post Subject: Making a quilt with a sewing machine

Help!
I've been fantasizing about making my mom a cute quilt with some of that sassy ReproDepot fabric.

One of my coworkers was telling me that it is easy to make quilt using a sewing machine, but I have no idea where to begin. I have sewn lots of clothes and bags, but I know quilting is a completely different game.

Does anybody have any website and/or book recommendations? Or a lot of experience?

Please note: I am a single parent with lots of Christmas gifts to make, so this can't be a super-complex project.

Thanks!

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View entire thread: Making a quilt with a sewing machine

Posted by fenestrelle on 2004-10-07 11:36:27      Post Subject:

hi there. usually i'm not a big fan of the "for dummies" series, but "quilting for dummies" was actually very helpful when i made my first quilt.

definitely check with your local library -- i'm sure they will have tons of quilting books. alex anderson has written a lot of books & has a quilting show on HGTV, so that's another name you might look for.

also, you might try http://quilting.about.com/ -- they have a TON of resources and projects for beginners as well as a good message board.

good luck! quilting can be both fun and frustrating, but i was really chuffed with myself when i finished my first (and, um, only) quilt. the last time i checked reprodepot, i wanted to cry because they had such awesome fabric and i had such an awesomely restricted budget. boo.

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View entire thread: "Super Craft" Shout Out

Posted by Tomico Revilak on 2006-05-23 03:36:26      Post Subject:

I love The Starving Artist's Way by Nava Lubelski and Paint it Black: A Guide to Gothic Homemaking by Votair. Bazaar Bizarre by Greg Der Ananian and ReadyMade: How To Make {Almost } Everything: A Do-It- Yourself Primer are a lot of fun as well. I look for books that challenge me a bit. I am always on the lookout for a book or patern that will help me design a quilt with a "gothic" flair - skulls, bats, spiders, graveyards, etc.

Tomico

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View entire thread: Craft Group Now Meeting in Independence, Missouri

Posted by Diana on 2007-03-03 14:27:56      Post Subject:

The Independence craft group has 3 new members for a total of 5 members. Small but mighty!! We had a great time and were wowed at everyone's talents. I worked on my paper pieced quilt block and need to get some yarn so Sue can teach me finger crochet.

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View entire thread: Photography meets the Tee

Posted by krafti_gal on 2006-02-03 18:52:27      Post Subject:

Photography and tees go together great. Do you ever quilt? Photog is good for that.
If you make purses, try some of the inkjet artist canvas, it all works together really well.
There is so much that can be done.... so many crafts so little time :-<

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View entire thread: advice on starting a stitch n bitch group

Posted by annaline on 2004-04-28 21:54:01      Post Subject:

If there is a coffeehouse or bookstore where she can post a flyer, that might help. Our stitch n bitch started when two women decided on a date, time and location and just put up flyers. we have had up to 20 people show up on any given night and meet weekly at one of our local coffeehouses. Another group I meet with met at the Studio Art Quilt Associates conference here in Athens and took it from there. If there are any shops, she can look/ask there or if there are any kind of exhibits there might be people there who would be interested.

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View entire thread: draft blocker

Posted by micrafty on 2006-12-22 11:18:24      Post Subject:

Seems like you would need both weight and filling. I would think the pellets would end up being too expensive alone, but could work with fiberfill.

Depending on how big they are, maybe stuff a knee sock with fish tank gravel or something in the decor section in the dollar store (marbles, pebbles, etc) and then wrap the sock in quilt batting to make a roll. Seems like that would help keep the shape as well as weight it. And if it every got wet it wouldn't get yucky like rice or beans might get.

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View entire thread: big question

Posted by KnittyMomma on 2005-03-17 23:13:37      Post Subject: big question

a really good friend of mine online asked me to make a quilt for her out of her daughters baby clothes. She will be sending the clothes to me. Now I know she doesnt have much money. It wouldnt cost any thing for me except the back fabric and shipping. So how much do you think I should charge her if anything? I was thinking 10 or 15 plus shipping.

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View entire thread: photo quilts?

Posted by kristen219 on 2005-12-15 18:31:05      Post Subject: photo quilts?

i have an idea, and im not sure how it would hold up, so i'd like to get some opinions....anyone ever see the movie "stepmom"? well at the end she has a quilt with pictures of her and her children on it. i'd like to do somtehing similar with pictures of me and my fiancee in black &white with a black and white and grey themed quilt. do u think dark t-shirt transfers for the pictures would hold up through long term use? or so i just scratch the picture idea and use a few patterned sections? any help/opinions are appreciated!!!

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View entire thread: photo quilts?

Posted by kdaum on 2005-12-16 12:49:37      Post Subject:

While I believe that any sort of photo transfer for fabric would hold up, I don't think it has a lifetime guarantee like the fabric itself would. If this quilt is something which you might bring out for special occasions or is kept in clean/semi-unused condition to pass down to your kids, then I think the phototransfer would work.

Yet, on the other hand if this is a quilt that you plan on using on your bed or as a throw on your sofa, then I would just suggest dropping the photo transfer idea...I don't now how long that would stand up to constant abuse/washing/etc.

Just my opinion.

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View entire thread: Okay my introduction...

Posted by Kotoyo on 2005-02-26 22:22:09      Post Subject: Okay my introduction...

I'm Kotoyo...Amee...Tarah<--real name

I'm 15, short and a freshman at East High (#1 in the nation for thievary)

I've joined this site because I'm really intrested in craftings and the such...but I'm pretty new to it all and I can't upload pictures thanks to computer needing a new hard drive.

So...what I can do:

Crochet (the fashion/sewing teacher thinks I'm god)
Sew (not really too great though)
The Knit Stitch

What I want to do:

Knit and Purl and everything else...
Quilt


Besides the crafts I'm an anime obsessive, fashion crazed, "gothy", dramatic freak. I'm also very outspoken and all my friends parents hate me. But that doesn't bother me to much, because I think they're all retarded and should quit with the bias. ^_^.

So Hi!

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View entire thread: Quilt/Applique/Embroidery Swap #2

Posted by kdaum on 2005-06-06 14:11:40      Post Subject:

Yes, you are only to make one 12"x12" block and will only receive one back. There is not going to be a quilt made-you are only swapping with the person's name whom I send to you. I only called it a quilt/applique/embroidery swap because you can either quilt, applique or embroider the block.

I hope this helps answer your question.

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View entire thread: Photography meets the Tee

Posted by Mo T on 2006-02-06 16:59:46      Post Subject:

thanks! no, i don't quilt. have friends who do and they're so talented. don't think i could put one together to save my life. i've been wanting to try the inkjet artist canvas. another idea to add to the project list =] i hear ya, so many ideas, so little time. it seems to consume the majority of my waking hours.

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View entire thread: Good Beginning Quilting Books

Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2007-03-15 19:29:23      Post Subject:

yes! i agree with xuli. i think the Denyse Schmidt book is great-- thorough, easy to understand instructions/tips, and more modern and graphic than some "old fashioned" quilting books (not that I have anything against traditional quilts--i love them).

and if you really want to get into the quilting immediately without stressing about fabric, there is also a "Quilt-It Kit" that has some of the same Denyse Schmidt instructions on project cards and enough DS fabric for a small quilted project...

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View entire thread: Selling Quilts - etsy - other?

Posted by honeybee on 2006-11-20 18:45:59      Post Subject:

you can do a search on etsy for quilts and get an idea of how others are doing selling theirs, as well as browse prices.
there are lots of people doing really well, even with more expensive items.
promotion is key, of course, and it's very helpful to have several items in your shop.

good luck! it's a gorgeous quilt.

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View entire thread: Quilt Binding??? I need help!

Posted by researchasaurus on 2006-01-03 13:39:23      Post Subject:

I'm there too--the one time I fixed an old quilt with store-bought binding it turned out so bad!!

I have the 1" version of this tool

http://www.joann.com/catalog.jhtml?CATID=24991&PRODID=11900

and I am going to try it for the quilt I'm working on now--which will be my first one I ever made and finished all by myself. I have no idea how easy they are but I like the idea of being able to bind with a fabric of your choosing.

I'm waiting for a couple of quilting books to come up on hold at the library, because I don't own any. Do you have any that have binding info in them? Maybe if the ones I check out are any good I'll PM you with the titles.

Heidi

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View entire thread: Help with deciding on sewing machine/quilting/purse making

Posted by shannonmalik on 2006-03-13 07:21:28      Post Subject: Help with deciding on sewing machine/quilting/purse making

Hey all,

I am interested in learning how to machine stitch quilt and also figured I'd probably make a few purses while I'm at it. I haven't used a sewing machine since jr. high but I remember it coming easily enough back then. I don't need something industrial strength or with a ton of bells and whistles but I have NO idea where to begin in terms of what type of AFFORDABLE machine might meet my needs and where to find it. Any help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Shannon

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View entire thread: sewing in NJ

Posted by athena on 2006-12-18 16:49:26      Post Subject:

Becki have you checked with a local quilt/fabric shop? Most independent fabric shops that sell sewing machines give classes also. They might have a class on getting to know your machine or they could maybe refer you to someone who could help.

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View entire thread: questions for the quilters out there

Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2006-03-28 17:34:03      Post Subject:

oh my gosh yay-- thank you for helping with my HQUI... oh wait, that acronym makes a naughty word. anyway, i think that your quilt is lovely and thanks so much for your help.

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View entire thread: fabric art people in Northampton MA?

Posted by faboolicious on 2004-09-04 07:26:16      Post Subject: crafty in noho!

Hey moxiegirl,
I'm in Noho and do s&b's too! I'm just trying to get stuff together to make a t-shirt quilt - any hints or tips would be great - I'm a beginner! What are your weird dolls like?
-faboo!

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View entire thread: questions for the quilters out there

Posted by Schmatta on 2006-03-28 19:08:02      Post Subject:

I make lots of quilts and also hate math and could give you some trix n tips, but I use fabric that I already have, so I can't help you with fabric amounts. And yes, researchasaurus, your quilt is quite marvelous.

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View entire thread: 50

Posted by nquilter on 2004-10-08 16:29:31      Post Subject:

I saw an idea on a quilt list not long ago where a woman who was turning 50 sent fabric squares to 50 family members and friends and asked them to write a birthday wish on the fabric. She was planning on sewing all the messages into a quilt.

A quilt is a ton of work, but you could do something similar with pages like becca suggested. You could send out cool papers and put them together in a book to give to your mom.

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View entire thread: Felted wool?

Posted by MosaicMadness on 2006-11-17 19:05:07      Post Subject:

Hhhhmmmm, needle felted wool.....not sure. Do you mean do you sew it with a needle? If so, then yes. I've gone to a number of quilt stores in Miami /So Fla and none of them teach it because it's a "North craft." Many thanks in advance for your help! Have a great weekend!

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View entire thread: Pittsburgh, PA alternicraft round robin.

Posted by Tomico Revilak on 2006-02-08 21:28:47      Post Subject: Pittsburgh, PA alternicraft round robin.

I'm interested in starting a discussion group to exchange oddball ideas for crafting. I would like to meet with other crafters in the area and share some of the odd projects I've been working on, show how to do it, and have others share and show what they are involved with as well as sharing ideas on how to make things that we are unsure how to accomplish. I would share how I've made fairy wings, liqueurs, duct tape demons, referbished lampshades, sewn without patterns based on medieval clothing designs, embelished an umbrella, and how to make a coffin purse. I would love to figure out how to design a skull quilt as well as many other projects. If there are any takers let me know.

Tomico

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View entire thread: Need StitchNBitch pointers

Posted by Karen on 2004-06-16 17:29:59      Post Subject: Re: S'nB pointers

What are the ups and downs of allowing non-needlecraft crafts to join?

I welcome men & women of any age who do any portable craft. So far, we've had people knit, crochet, hand-quilt, embroider ... Pros: you get more members & you get to learn about new things. No cons so far! When it gets too hot to knit, I plan to bring my duct tape -- I make wallets, purses, etc.
Karen

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SnB_NewHaven

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View entire thread: Quilt/Applique/Embroidery Swap #2

Posted by kdaum on 2005-06-06 12:42:30      Post Subject: Quilt/Applique/Embroidery Swap #2

So, once before I posted a swap of this sort and only had one taker. Honestly, Karin and I had alot of fun and each of us got an awesome gift.

I would really like to see some others participate. You don't need to know how to make a quilt, maybe you know how to applique, embroider or cross-stitch instead-just no stapling or glueing Please!!!

If interested, drop me an email. The deadline to sign up will be Wednesday, the 15th and your item must be completed and shipped no later then Friday, July 8th.

-------THE RULES---------
12"x12" finished piece
-You can quilt it, applique it or embroider it...just fill up a good portion of it with other fabrics and or thread. For decoration, you can add buttons, beads, whatever (it just all must be attached by thread).
-On Thursday, the 16th you will be given the name of your swap partner. It will be up to you to decide if you want to communicate with them about colors, etc. if you you want it a total surprize.
-You must have your item in the mail no later then July 8th and it would be appreciated if you dropped me an email or PM letting me know it went out.


Thanks!!!

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View entire thread: Felted wool?

Posted by MosaicMadness on 2006-11-17 11:55:19      Post Subject: Felted wool?

Over the summer I was vacationing in Ohio and went to a quilt store where they had "felted wool" items -- at least I think that's what they were called. They had adorable purses and wall hangings. I live in Miami. FL and can't find anyone who teaches these classes. Does anyone know where I could find a kit online to try and learn how to do this? I was told there's no machine sewing involved which is perfect since I've tried and just can't get it(!). Many thanks for your help!

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View entire thread: Quilting Inquiry....

Posted by Diana on 2006-08-14 19:27:55      Post Subject:

Dear soon-to-be a quilter,
Welcome to the wonderful world of quilting. I've been quilting for about 15 years and love that there is always something new to learn. My advice is to go to your local library and check out lots of books, both the basic how-to guides and some of the pretty pattern books to inspire you. Just do lots of practice on scrap fabric. Put the word out to friends and family that you want to quilt and you'll be stunned at how much fabric and old clothing comes your way. Try to start with 100% cotton if possible as it tends to be a bit easier to work with. I'll get back to you in the next couple of days with some book titles. You are going to have a blast!!

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View entire thread: Sewing patterns for beginners?

Posted by textile_fetish on 2006-01-10 11:18:25      Post Subject:

There are inexpensive patterns in any fabric store, usually sold on a spinning display rack. They are called New Look and something else I can't remember. ANYWAY! they are cheap and easy as well.

Stay away from things like zippers and buttons for now. Some easier things to sew include:

pajama pants with elastic in the waist, pillows, pillow covers, things that are made with fleece (since the edges don't fray), consider making cloth napkins (just a square hemmed on all sides - instant gratification!)

You might also want to stick with fabrics that are medium weight (such as cotton woven, aka quilt fabric) as well as materials that do not stretch.

Good luck and know you will get better with practice!

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View entire thread: giving myself a present

Posted by quornflour on 2006-11-24 14:32:32      Post Subject:

Family wise I only speak with one of my aunts and my sister. I made a quilt for my sister for her birthday this year. I have knit a number of things for my aunt.
I have made stuff for friends though, I feel like you get to choose your family. Sometimes you choose the folks you were born to, other times you do not.
I am totally getting off topic. I am not even sure I was on topic in the first place.

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View entire thread: Just got a sewing machine... now what?

Posted by Gluey on 2007-01-08 14:31:29      Post Subject:

I agree. Even the simple quilts can be pretty expensive.

I think you should just take some time to get to know your machine. Read the manual. Use some scrap fabric to try all of the stiches on all of the settings. Try all the different feet. Make a few buttonholes. If it has any interesting embroidery features, try those out. Maybe make a few flat stuffed animals first. When you know exactly what you can get out of it, then I'm sure your quilt will turn out even cooler.

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View entire thread: Just got a sewing machine... now what?

Posted by rmeb on 2007-01-08 12:04:32      Post Subject: Just got a sewing machine... now what?

Hi All,

I haven't posted in a long time, but when I received my first sewing machine for Christmas and wanted some advice, I knew exactly where to go!

I'm not new to crafting, but I've never used a sewing machine before, so I'm looking for advice on a simple first project. I was thinking of making a quilt (using the already made quilting squares from Jo-Ann's or something) for my friend's baby, but I wasn't sure how complicated that would be.

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance!
*r

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View entire thread: Spring Cleaning?

Posted by brdgt on 2005-06-01 08:12:19      Post Subject:

I have been totally spring cleaning and "nesting" lately. We moved here last fall and I started grad school right away. I never had time to decorate or even fully unpack, and now I'm having a blast making curtains, figuring out storage ideas, and doing little touches.

I'm going room by room, first the front porch, which had become like a closet, is now the "music room" with a bookshelf with all of our music related books, our record collection, our extra stereo and some comfy chairs.

I just finished up the bathroom by making some new curtains and a skirt for the sink (it's one of those with exposed pipes underneath rather than a cupboard) and found a great little shelf/basket contraption to put underneath now.

Next is the bedroom, I need to find a thrift store low bureau, a side table for the rocking chair and put up the quilt rack over the bed.

Handily I have the deadline of late June to get stuff done because my mother and father-in-law will be staying with us then!

*ETA* Damn you! After posting this I got the cleaning bug and have been going through each room top to bottom!

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View entire thread: Offline crafty groups?

Posted by lizzymahoney on 2004-09-02 12:54:44      Post Subject:

# What does word pair "craft group" mean to you?
(If the are other terms in english, please tell me. After all it isn't my mother language.)
# What does word "craft" mean to you?
# Have you ever participated in an offline craft group?
(If you have, how old were you then, what organization organized it and why did you participate?)
# What kind of thoughts do you have about crafty groups existence?
(Why do they exist? Why does world need them?)

A craft group to me seems about the same as what you describe. Could be anything. The stitch and bitch, moms making salt dough ornaments, sisters and cousins completing a quilt or scrap book, a class in stamping, kindergarteners sand painting. I suppose in a broader sense, the swaps from boards like this one are craft groups. The people are separated but interact offline in crafty pursuit.

I've done many, but am not really involved in any group now. Lots of church bazaar stuff from childhood on, garden design with the Latin Club at my high school last century, ikebana classes, book production, one on one instruction in all sorts of things, actual graded classes in school within the Art Department, public displays of creations both craft and art, seasonal presentations and lots more... I've done this at any age up to my present late 40s. With family or schoolmates or neighbors or coworkers. Years ago with my church. Sometimes the goal is clearcut, sometimes not.

Craft to me has to involve the creation of something useful or attractive by an individual or sometimes a group. It is not mass manufactured, although parts of it may be. A craft group could be working on the same one project or individual takes on the topic, or completely separate things.

I like that crafty groups and orgs encourage others to make use of their own imaginations, that the more people do more things, the more relaxed they are. It's very therapeutic for me, and for others.

At the fabric store, people are as obnoxious as they are anywhere in retail. But occasionally you get to learn something new, or see one customer help another even though they are strangers. Unfortunately, so many of them expect my small store to be like Walmart when they want and like their own personal savant when they want. Can't have it both ways. If you really want my help in determining what color brocade would best match your paint chips then you shouldn't bitch about having to wait at the cutting counter or the register. If you really want rock bottom prices you can't expect the poorly paid clerk to have any idea how to use the product. End of rant.

More people crafting means more self sufficiency and more self confidence. That's gotta be good.

Right now we are facing another hurricane and all that it entails. Yet people don't know how to light a charcoal fire, don't know how to safeguard candles, or warm water in the sun for bathing, or conserve their energy. They do laughable things with the fear of the hurricane. Yeah, go ahead and fight over a full tank of gas at the pumps! You aren't going to need it for several days, and if you evacuate, a half tank will get you wherever you need to go. People are coming in to the fabric store and yelling because we don't sell batteries or kerosene, or tents. And still others are buying crafting materials so they won't get cabin fever during the expected power outages.

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View entire thread: Just got a sewing machine... now what?

Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2007-01-08 12:40:04      Post Subject:

i would recommend something even simpler and smaller to start with-- like a pillow case, just to get the hang of your machine without spending a ton of money on quilt squares, batting, backing etc.

the pillow case tutorial at
super eggplant is great. I also recommend her totebag tutorial-- that is the first thing I made when i got my sewing machine!

i found that taking a class was a great way to get comfortable with my machine, so if there is a sewing studio or workshop near you, i'd say check out their classes and see if anything appeals to you!

Not to say quilts are hard or a bad idea, I just think it is more satisfying to start out with one or two smaller projects!

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View entire thread: advice/online resources for 1st time quilter?

Posted by karikazo on 2004-08-02 12:32:36      Post Subject:

someone's talking about QUILTING *pantpantpant*--here I am--!!! uh. sorry.

Your top sounds great. I learned to quilt out of books (public library always has a lot of basic quilting books), so I don't know the best sites, but BH&G has some stuff here: http://ww4.bhg.com/bhg/category.jhtml?catref=cat40013

I just wrote something incredibly long and detailed and decided it was too much info. Here's the short version of what I suggest:

I'd suggest tying your quilt (BHG has a section on that) instead of quilting the layers together. It's faster, easier, and would be less frustrating than trying to learn to hand- or machine-quilt for the first time on a bed-sized project. Plus, I think it has a casual, old-fashioned look that would work well with the way I'm imagining your top.

(I meant I'm imagining your quilt top, not "your top" as in "your boobs"....uh....anyway.)

PLUS, I think this would work with any kind of backing fabric you use. Many sources say not to use sheets for backings, as the tighter weave of sheeting fabric can be hard to quilt through (though flannel has a looser weave, I think, and might be perfect). I think tying would work with sheets or anything just fine.

Just putting top & backing together without batt sounds great, if you aren't concerned with warmth. It will save you the money of buying the batt, and means you'll have fewer layers to baste & tie. I've also heard of using polar fleece as the backing (sans a batt), so you could try that if you want something warmer.

I haven't tried this, but here's a technique that might work for you. You can put the top and backing together, wrong sides out, and sew along the edges (like making an envelope). Leave an unstitched section big enough to turn the whole thing inside out, and voila...the edges are put together, and you don't have to worry about putting on binding. Then you can do the tying (or quilting); you might want to baste it with thread or safety pins first.



I'm sure there are some more detailed sites; I'll have to hunt around.

It sounds like a great project--have fun!

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View entire thread: What to do with old camis?

Posted by stella on 2006-02-11 01:02:07      Post Subject:

is that camouflage? in my mind "cami" is "camisole", which is probably not what your husband wore in the military. although i do find the idea of a bunch of tough Navy guys running around in lacy undershirts rather amusing...

anyways.

have you thought of cutting the fabric up and using it to make a quilt? you could buy coordinating fabric to make up the rest of the quilt squares, but you should be able to get plenty of fabric. last year when i was working at JoAnn they had fabric themed to the different branches of the military, so you might be able to find Navy fabric.

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View entire thread: questions for the quilters out there

Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2006-03-10 12:42:52      Post Subject: questions for the quilters out there

I am a very impatient quilter, and also not at all good at math (when I design things, even after measuring them and scrutinizing the numbers, they always come out smaller than I meant). So basically I want to make a quilt of not-tiny but not huge squares (I've done 7x9 rectangles, but I want squares, and a bit smaller), that comes out to a nice throw-blanket size.

I know this is the lazy way of doing it, but quilters out there, what size blocks would you recommend, and how many across and down for what I'm thinking?

There are two fabrics that I want to be my "main" theme, with perhaps 2-3 other accent fabrics to set them off, so what would you recommend in terms of yardage for the main fabrics? I'm ordering online so I want to be sure to get enough...

Thanks in advance for answering my questions. I kind of feel like I am cheating by asking for so much help with basic design!

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View entire thread: advice/online resources for 1st time quilter?

Posted by xuli on 2004-08-02 12:43:00      Post Subject:

Awesome! Thanks so much to both of you for the info! (I really like this quick-turning method, and I like the way tied quilts look, so I think I might do that.)

I forgot to mention in my original post that I'd LOVE recommendations on good how-to books for new quilters. I had so much fun with the first part of this project on Saturday, and am really excited about the next phase ... AND I already feel the "new-craft-addiction" coming on, so I'm pretty sure this won't be my last quilt. So for my next quilt it will probably be worth the time & effort to spend some time researching/reading up/learning more about the craft, and since a class is probably not feasible for me right now I'd love book recommendations.

Keep 'em coming, y'all -- I really appreciate this!!

(I'm thinking that my next project will be a quilt out of all the old blue jeans we were going to donate, but it's made my boyfriend a little bit worried. Yesterday he caught me checking out the blue jeans he was WEARING and he said, "Oh my god, I know that crafter's gleam in your eye. You want to quilt the clothes off my back now, don't you?" And of course, I couldn't deny it ...)

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View entire thread: giving myself a present

Posted by anthrogirl on 2006-11-25 12:59:16      Post Subject:

Family wise I only speak with one of my aunts and my sister. I made a quilt for my sister for her birthday this year. I have knit a number of things for my aunt.
I have made stuff for friends though, I feel like you get to choose your family. Sometimes you choose the folks you were born to, other times you do not.
I am totally getting off topic. I am not even sure I was on topic in the first place.

Hey, you made sense to me.

I don't really do a big gift exchange with family. I was born in a different state and have a very different life from the rest of my family. but this year I just felt like making things for them. In a way it's my acknowledgement that I'm related to them even if I don't see them.

Most of my family is chosen, though. I'm going to make them all cookies and things. Or not. We'll see. I'm feeling worn out from dealing with Thanksgiving crap right now.

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View entire thread: What should I do with THIS?

Posted by chromegrrrl on 2006-04-16 04:16:37      Post Subject:

Find a light velvet or heavy rayon (something with a contrasting texture) in a complimentary color and quilt it together in large squares with the fabric you already have, then use the mixed fabric for your skirt.

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View entire thread: Ideas for a Very Small Wedding Reception

Posted by lalamark on 2005-04-22 13:20:23      Post Subject:

At my sister's wedding reception, a quilt-making cousin gave everyone 6in squares of muslin and a permanent fabric pen and had them write something to the couple. Later she pieced and quilted them to make a throw. It's quite "bridal" looking--unbleached muslin, a little lacy and sweet--but you could jazz it up by using bright solids for the signature squares instead. My only suggestion would be to warn the guests beforehand; I had a terribly time thinking up something poignant on the spot.

Another option (though less to do with the actual reception) would be a friendship style quilt in which each person contributes a square and you put them all together. These can be really interesting; I saw one that featured cross-stitching, fabric painting/stenciling, patchwork, and applique. Pretty much anything you can do to fabric.

If you keep them small and tie instead of quilt, these can be put together really quickly, and a throw-sized quilt won't take up too much room in a suitcase.

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View entire thread: Hello from Montreal!

Posted by quornflour on 2006-11-05 23:41:17      Post Subject:

wow nice!
I just pieced a baby quilt myself today. Mine are a little different style...

I will have to check out your blog.

~Q

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View entire thread: advice/online resources for 1st time quilter?

Posted by xuli on 2004-08-02 11:01:25      Post Subject: advice/online resources for 1st time quilter?

So, in my usual haphazard manner, on Saturday I threw myself spontaneously and randomly into a craft about which I know absolutely nothing: Quilting. I had two bags of clothes I was planning to take to Goodwill, my boyfriend had some more bags ... and as I looked them over I thought, "I bet there are enough pieces of similarly-weighted woven cotton in here to make a quilt since we've been needing a new bedspread anyway."

So -- I cut them all into pieces and machine-sewed them together, and I have to say I'm happy with the result so far. I used pieces that were as large as possible, and I decided from the outset that I wanted to have a very handmade, very unprofessional, very haphazard aesthetic so that I could make my utter lack of knowledge and experience look deliberate. So far the technique worked. It's mostly discarded (frayed) dress shirts in blues and whites, so it even looks color-coordinated.

What I know absolutely nothing about is what to do next. Are there any resources online that could teach me about the process of using batting and sewing backing to my quilt? Any words of advice? Any places I could learn about simple, haphazard ways of finishing the edges?

I might forego the batting entirely (I live in California, so I don't really need a super-warm quilt), but I'd still like to weigh up my options. I was also thinking that for the backing it would be easy to use a flannel sheet in a fun pattern -- anyone see any problems/drawbacks to this?

Any info is appreciated!

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View entire thread: Crocheting for Adults Only!

Posted by bessiemae on 2005-06-05 09:51:43      Post Subject:

Um... I don't crochet, but suppose we could quilt some?

ETA: Too late for the Coin Purse Swap!

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