Posted by quornflour on 2006-01-29 14:51:03
Post Subject: Latch Hook - want free stuff? <gone to HajiOnMe>
Ok so I had this brilliant idea to make a latch hook rug out of scraps from my quilting projects.
Well, before this, I'd never made a latch hook rug.
To be honest the whole craft is making me cRaZy so I think I am just going to be done with it.
Does anyone want the cut strips and netting? I'll even throw in the hook.
First person who asks gets it.
PM me with your address and I will ship it to you this week.
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.
Posted by Swank Creations on 2005-02-16 11:32:31
Post Subject: Wash, DC Crafters!!
Are you a craft diva with a flair for teaching? If so, lets talk. I am in the beginning phases of opening a sewing and craft school and craft supply boutique in Washington, DC. As i develop my business plan, i'd like to begin relationships with teachers that i will eventually hire as independent contractors to teach various classes at my lounge. I am interested in those with experience teaching crochet, knitting, sewing, embroidery/cross-stitch, quilting, paper crafts (including scapbooking and stamping), home dec, and any other unique craft. For my plan, i will need to have a list of qualified instructors and their expected fee per class. This is a good opportunity for up-and-coming designers or expert crafters with a talent for teaching. Unique crafters encouraged and photos of work are appreciated. Shoot me an email if you are interested or if you'd like more info.
Posted by ursonate on 2006-12-03 21:42:58
Post Subject: Austin - December Church of Craft 12/10
Last chance to craft before the holidays!
Our next meeting is Sunday December 10. Bring any craft you'd like share or work on. Also I'll have materials on hand for quickie lessons in knitting, spinning and embroidery. No experience or special skill is required-just a willingness to hang out and make stuff. Bring a friend or two or three!
The mission of the Church of Craft is to promote making and creativity
as a means to be happier and more whole people. Meetings are held the
2nd Sunday of the month. Bring any craft you want, or if you don't
have anything in progress, there are kits and supplies for projects ranging from ceramics and mosaics to beading and beauty products available for purchase at The Workshop.
************Also I am still looking for suggestions of meeting time and places for a weeknight fiber study group. Basically this would be a couple of hours devoted specifically to knitting, embroidery, quilting and other fiber-related crafts. Let me know if you are interested.**************
See you there!
Sunday, December 10, 2pm-5pm
The Workshop Austin
1211 W. 6th St. Ste. 400
(a few blocks west of Lamar)
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!
Posted by Woodi on 2008-01-12 18:48:57
Post Subject: anyone know how to embroider?
I am looking for an embroidery technique to fasten pieces of fabric together. Pieces which have been sewn together right sides, then turned inside out, so that I have a number of 'teardrop shaped' pieces for an apron.
I want to fasten these together strongly, then embroider over top of the seams, as we do in crazy quilting.
Can anyone recommend which kind of stitch I should use to fasten the turned teardrops together?
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!!
Posted by revafisheye on 2004-11-08 13:12:44
Post Subject: NYC/Tri-State quilters, designers who sew
Hi Craftistas,
My friend Dan, an interior designer, has a client who wants to commission 3 quilts made from Marimekko dresses from the 60s and 70s. The designs would be modern and funky. Machine-quilting is preferable because, well, they'd like them done by Christmas. Since my sewing skills are severely lacking, I offered to open it up to the Get Crafty community and he thought that was wonderful idea.
I'll answer as many questions as I can in this thread, but I have no money details except to say that you would be paid. If you are interested, PM me and I'll pass your info along.
Posted by Schmatta on 2005-02-10 16:03:08
Post Subject: I have these craft books on my wish list
I don't have any of these. But I do have a coupla hundred craft books to dispose of (incl. quilting, soapmaking, candles, wreaths, whatever). So if this thread develops and I see any "wishes" that I own, I'll PM you and offer to send 'em to you.
The only thing I would want in return is castoff silk clothing to cut up for quilts or cashmere sweaters to felt -- nothing good enough to wear.
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.
Posted by Karen1948 on 2006-09-05 11:05:20
Post Subject: Beginning quilting
I started quilting when a friend invited me to a strip quilting class in our small community. It was so much fun! That was about 10 years or more ago and I love this craft -- as well as manhy others. I will look up the names of some of the strip quilting books I have purchased an send that along once I get back home from my holiday visiting my kids. ENJOY! Its a great way to spend time with others or alone.
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...
Posted by Katrin on 2004-04-28 23:41:27
Post Subject:
Oooh, neat! I've never tried quilting myself but have been considering it off and on for a while.
I belong to a women's organization that just had a meeting last night, where one member did a presentation on the history of quilting and all the quilts she has made. I think I'll check out that magazine for some inspiration and to show to her at the next meeting (don't know if it's one she reads already).
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.
Posted by sarabell on 2005-09-22 16:18:41
Post Subject:
i've found that the only gadget i have needed is an embroidery hoop and a good book or other source for techniques (mainly just to keep patches together well....) that's all i have for my low-tech quilting. funny, i was planning on whipping that out today myself. once i finish at least one of the projects i have going on.
but i'm quite inexperienced in the quilting world. i'm sure i'll discover some quiltiing doodad i can't live without if i ever really get into it. but i try to make as much as i can with as little purchasing as possible.
Posted by micrafty on 2006-08-25 17:37:16
Post Subject:
Look around your community and see if the community college (if you have those) or some other group offers quilting classes. You can learn a lot and make new friends.
It was how I learned. It was such a fun class!
If you are planning on purchasing a sewing machine to start your new hobby - look into buying one through a sewing shop; they often offer free classes with the purchase.
I would suggest you look into paper piecing. It would be a great place to start as everything is measured for you and it is easier to cut the pieces. Also look into strip quilting and the log cabin pattern - it doesn't require as much piecing.
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!!
Posted by fractalash on 2004-10-14 09:53:22
Post Subject: fort worth, texas crafty chicas!
gah! so cool!
okay. i'm into math art, fractals, and textiles. i like paint. wall art. plants and glass. mixed media. pretty things. and things that smell nice, too. i'm in west fort worth, texas, near the museums. if any of you crafty gals are in this area and want an art mongering companion, give a gal a holla holla -- it would be so rad to have a group of girls with whom i could get my craft on. at present i am obsessed with cross stitch and quilting and any other way i can pixelate myself to nirvana. chicas with little ones would be uber rad - i have a bad ass six year old boy and i enjoy his presence when i craft, and would welcome the mesh of a playgroup and a craft group!
Posted by Schmatta on 2006-07-14 10:58:44
Post Subject: Rowenta iron
I used to count my blessings: Bernina sewing machine, Rowenta iron, Gingher shears and snips. That first Rowenta was amazing. When it died (22 years of perfect performance!) I rushed out to buy another. What a dud. It has always leaked and now (after maybe 4 years) it won't even heat up.
Any advice? Has Rowenta quality slipped? I use my iron a lot. Any other serious sewing or quilting people who might tell me what to do next?
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.
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.
Posted by stella on 2006-04-29 22:22:46
Post Subject:
wash-out spray adhesive. they usually have it in the quilting section of fabric stores. you have to spot-test it to make sure it won't stain your fabric, and, obviously, the fabric has to be washable.
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.
Posted by sharopooks on 2005-08-05 10:36:20
Post Subject: Introduction
Though you are ahead of me as far as # of posts, I registered before you, so I believe I'm qualified to say WELCOME! and to introduce myself as well.
I'm 34 and have recently found marital bliss (last summer feels like recently). He's a social worker/guitarist, I'm a former bass player who works at an entertainment law firm in NYC. We both still enjoy live music whilst now laughing back at our former music-scene selves, circles and antics. We are also thinking of thinking of conceiving...!
My crafty side has been dormant until recently due to long work hours. Fortunately, I just worked out a deal w/ work to hire a night assistant so I can leave before 7:30 at night and have a life again. It's a paycut, but worth it in re-gained quality of life.
Reduced work hours will equal enough time to:
-Crochet and foster a general obsession with cool fibers and textiles. One day I will put those applique, dyeing and quilting books I bought over the years to use!
- Journaling, writing detailed fun accounts of various life events to distribute to family members.
- Create collages (I wanna post a pic of one that means a great deal to me but cannot find it in our apartment! I am slightly freaking out over that fact and have my fingers crossed that it turns up, soon!)
- Embark on my own style of scrapbooking, I have a vision of indie-scrapbooking. Nothing against traditional scrapbooking - some of it is awesome - but a lot of it doesn't resonate with me. One day I saw a nontraditional scrapbook page that a getcrafty member posted. I was like, aHA, THAT'S the kind of page I wanna do!
- Play bass - my strength and dexterity have faded and my interest in band life has diminished w/ age, but even if I just jam with the hubby at home, that'd be great.
- Creative healthy cooking, step aerobics, cardio kickboxing and general working out, snowboarding.
- Spend too much time on various message boards!
- Enjoy life, traveling, friends, music, etc with the hubby.
That's me in a nutshell. karlaBOO, see ya around...!
Posted by zahmeece on 2005-03-14 14:27:09
Post Subject: Re: Sewing machine
Generally speaking, the sewing machines that work with a computer are for machine embroidery. It sounds to me that you know nothing of sewing. If so, my advice is to take a sewing class or find a friend who will teach you. Kenmore and Brother make good basic machines. I've sewn on Kenmores for years and just got a high end Brother for machine quilting. Pfaff, Viking, and Bernina are great machines but pricey. Better to start small and grow since you are new to it. Don't go investing a lot of money until you know you love sewing. Personally, I don't know how anyone doesn't. I've been sewing since I was 12 and love it. You can make curtains, clothes (people and doll), book covers. Dang near anything.
Here's a simple 1st sewing project. I make "blankies" from fleece and cotton. Get about a yard and a half of fleece. Since it's 54-60" wide you'll need twice that of 45" fabric unless you can find 60" wide cotton. If 45" cut the length in half and then cut one side in half lengthwise. Sew each side to the whole piece to make the yard and a half really wide. Lay the fleece and cotton with right sides together with the fleece in the center. Cut off the excess on either side. Then stitch a wide (3/4 to 1") seam allowance all around except for about 12" on one end for turning. Turn it inside out and straighten out the corners. Then topstitch all around about 3/8 or 1/2" from the edge. Then fold in thirds to mark and then topstitch straight across from side to side for the minimal quilting. Voila! Very nice for naps and tv watching. Babies too.
Posted by pteryla on 2007-02-21 21:48:51
Post Subject:
1. What types of crafts fo you enjoy?
knitting, quilting, wheel-throwing
2. Where do you usually find the materials for these crafts?
various web sites, from eBay to knitpicks.com and purlsoho.com. occasionally city quilter in chelsea.
3. What materials do you have the most difficulty finding?
unusual, high-quality fabric—i.e., not just moda fabric w/ civil-war-era designs. i have an embarrassingly large stash of old feedsacks, but i want more beautiful solid-color, new cottons, but with a more luxurious feel than basic quilting cotton.
4. Are you a member of any craft groups - if so, where does it usually meet?
no
5. If you aren't a member of a group, would you like to join one in the future?
maybe
6. Have you taken any crafting classes in the city, if so, where?
yes, through makeworkshop.com
7. What borough do you live in? Would you travel out of borough to buy materials, or participate in a class or crafting group?
jersey city. i buy materials in the city, and would go into some parts of brooklyn, but not often.
8. Do you have children? Is crafting something you do together?
no
9. Do you find it difficult to do the projects you'd like to because your apartment is too small?
yes!
Posted by alteredtome on 2005-09-01 09:38:02
Post Subject: For Colorado Springs, CO
There have been some of us over on craftster.org, trying to get some kind of craft night together, but alas, there's only 2 women interested here in the Springs (me and someone else). Anyone else here?
I also wanted to let the Colorado community know about a new craft store I just stumbled upon on in the east end of the Springs. I'm not associated with them in anyway, but I was very impressed and I wanted to let Coloradans know about it, so I hope it's ok to post here. It's called Quilts and Crafts, run by a mom and daughter team, Omega and Trina. It's a quilting and scrapbooking supply store on the NW corner of N. Carefree and Powers, next to Diamond Shamrock. They are having a grand opening on Sept. 1st, 2nd and 3rd, with discounts, and they are also giving away prizes, including a crazy expensive quilting sewing machine (Trina said it's worth over $1000). You can enter anytime between Sept 1st and 3rd and you don't have to be there to win, they'll call you. Omega will be teaching quilting classes and Trina will be teaching scrapbooking/altered books/stamping/etc classes. The store is very well organized, with some scrapbooking and quilting supplies that you apparently can't get anywhere else (like this very pretty stained glass paper that Trina was showing me). Very cool, so check these ladies out before you head to the big stores, especially for all you east-enders, since it's in the same vicinity as Joann's and Micheal's. Support your local craft store! :)
Posted by lizzymahoney on 2004-11-06 14:00:16
Post Subject:
Two together might make a decent wallet. Whipstitch with leather lacing.
Cut disks or clamshells or other shapes and glue over a surface so it's like patchwork quilting. You could do this with the rectangles too, of course. Then use it for pillows or handbags.
Posted by Diana on 2005-11-09 15:02:59
Post Subject: Craft group in Independence missouri
I'm new to Independence/ Kansas City area and am looking to start or join a stitching group (quilting, cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, etc). Is there anyone out there who is interested? There are several crafty groups around here, but I can no longer be around paints, glues, and other fun stuff due to chemical allergies so I can't join them. Looking to make friends with other fiber fanatics and share my fabric and thread stashes.
Posted by mel_stormer on 2006-03-27 13:55:27
Post Subject: History of crafting
I need help from all you craftistas!!! I am writing a research paper for my English class on the history of crafting and how it has changed over time. The paper has to tie into my family history with. My grandmother, mother, and i all craft :G-ma-sewing, quilting, cooking & baking. my Mom-sewing, creating "country" folk crafts Myself- knitting, papercrafts, sewing, cooking. I need info on crafting during the 1940s, 1980s, and present. If anyone has any ideas or info please let me know...yall are the crafiest bunch i know!!! thanks in advance
Posted by xuli on 2007-03-12 09:47:33
Post Subject:
I like the Denyse Schmidt quilting book. I don't think it was designed as a beginner's book, but I'm a total beginner and find the instructions super easy to follow.
Posted by bookishsunny on 2007-02-21 17:45:24
Post Subject: Good Beginning Quilting Books
Can anyone recommend a good book to learn the basics of quilting. I know it is kind of superficial, but maybe not something that was printed in the 1980's (unless it is in the good, kitschy way.
Posted by lizzymahoney on 2008-02-11 18:52:01
Post Subject:
Most fabric stores will sell remnants. Tiny remnants like you are talking about might get thrown out though. An alternative would be the fat quarters or other quilting cottons and silks. They'll be folded in squares or rolled up but can be pretty pricey per yard.
A wild assortment of odd bits can be had from dumpster diving. Not a restaurant dumpster, but maybe you'll see a bag of used clothes and shoes tossed out by an apartment dumpster, or out behind a thrift store they might put the stuff they don't want. Lots of interesting small pieces for free if you are willing to look.
Posted by annaline on 2004-04-28 21:56:38
Post Subject: Quilting Arts articles
I have an article in the current issue of Quilting Arts magazine on extreme bead embellishment, and just got the proofs for the next article which uses eyelets, copper mesh or laminate as embellishment possibilities.
Posted by homuncula on 2005-03-19 09:18:52
Post Subject:
I agree; just enough to cover shipping and materials. You might try a barter, as well; I've done this. Maybe there's something she does well that she can help you out with. Or maybe she's got some other old fabric she can send you along with the quilting stuff. Good luck! Sounds like a fun project!
Posted by homuncula on 2005-09-22 19:50:06
Post Subject:
This page has a really simple and plain explanation of hand quilting: http://www.handquilter.com/html/newtip.html
I found it pretty helpful. I wish it had pictures, though! Good luck!
Posted by mentapiperina on 2005-03-11 11:51:58
Post Subject:
WOW, that is incredible! If you click on a "detail" link after you've clicked on a thumbnail, you can see all of the little stitches. Maybe I should try quilting!
Posted by msfish on 2005-09-22 15:32:35
Post Subject: Hand-quilting help?
Can anyone recommend how-to links for quilting sans sewing machine? I'm relatively competent with hand-stitching, but I wouldn't mind some pointers or project guidelines. The quilters I know have an awful lot of gadgets, and I'd like to try to make something as low-fi as possible...
Posted by quornflour on 2007-07-16 16:15:12
Post Subject:
I have a stack of them, the Stitch n Bitch collection is good, and so are: Super Crafty, Bazare Biare, Get Crafty - Hp Home Ec, Kitschy Crafts, the Craftsters Guide to Nifty, Thrifty, and Kitschy Crafts and the Complete Guide to Paper Crafts. My personal favorite is: Alterna Crafts. The Ready Made book is good though I do not have it in my collection at this time.
I have a few others but they are mostly specific to quilting and knitting.
Posted by sheilao323 on 2006-08-14 18:56:51
Post Subject: Quilting Inquiry....
Hey Everyone
I've been thinking about taking up quilting, and I was wondering if anyone could suggest any books, sites, ect. that would be helpful for starters. I came across this really interesting craft site for young adults (like myself) that got my creative wheels turning: http://www.makeitu.com/ . If anyone can suggest any sources like this site---that's geared towards a younger audience--- I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks much!
Posted by Badbird on 2006-10-31 18:00:27
Post Subject: Just finished a New Art Quilt
I just finished this piece for a show I will be having in Texas in the Spring. It is a combination of applique, embroidery and quilting. It measures 28" x 22.5". I took about a week to do. My wrists really hurt.
Posted by jennjitsu on 2004-11-07 14:26:14
Post Subject: Round-Robin Crafting?
This bartering thread put a little idea in my head. I'm sure you've heard of round-robin quilting if you have any quilting elders around. If you haven't, basically everyone passes around a piece, everyone adds something to it and it goes back to the originator (from what I understand).
I thought maybe we could start round-robin crafts. Let's say I made a plain messenger bag but was at a loss for emellishment. I'd post it and get about 6 people to say "Yeah I'll add something to it" and send it to person 1. They add their little bit, then send on to person 2 and so on until the bag is sent home by the last person. It would be a good way to put those little scrap trimmings/pieces/whatevers to good use. Of course we'd establish how many people it should go through. We could also do it with clothing we want embellished or altered/reconstructed.
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.
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?
Posted by stella on 2005-02-09 18:49:22
Post Subject:
i hate quilting, so i don't have much advice. okay, well, i don't like making patchwork things or the action of hand-quilting, but i don't mind making other kinds of quilts.
if you're doing any machine sewing, invest in a walking foot for your machine. you really need one to machine-quilt, but they also make it easier to sew on bindings, etc. my walking foot broke, and i'm very sad about it, because i used that thing all the damned time, even for non-quilting projects.
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.
Posted by jennjitsu on 2005-03-10 14:32:50
Post Subject:
Well, I don't know about one that hooks up to your computer, but I have seen sewing machines that ARE part of it's own little computer. Pfaff makes a good one. It is titled something along the lines of "quilting experience *insert buncha numbers here*" I think. But they require lots of shiny pennies.
I'm a Pfaff lady. I have a Hobby 1042 and plan on making a lot of my baby stuff with this. It has everything I need plus a few little decorative stitches (if I can ever adjust the knobs right). I don't think you need a fancy computerized machine unless you want to do some serious embellishing and embroidering.
Posted by dreamkeeper13 on 2006-10-30 16:19:12
Post Subject: GORGEOUS brocade scraps... what to do?
I bought some truly beautiful brocade squares (from a quilting bundle) that I used to make a patchwork tablerunner... and almost half my material is left (although in pieces!) and I want to make something else! The fabric's too beautiful not to! So I was going to make a matching pillow... but our pup would eat it, she's a terror when it comes to anything stuffed. I could make some little matching mats for the end tables, but I'd rather do something more fun. Any suggestions? My brain's worn out from my "real" job, so I can't come up with anything creative right now...
Posted by Lindsay Glankler on 2006-05-09 11:59:58
Post Subject: Cutting mats....
I am new to quilting and I am having some trouble with my fabric and my cutting mat. I am trying to cut satin and when I cut it, threads are gettting caught in the mat so when I move the piece, the fabric starts to shread. Does anyone know how I can stop this from happening? HELP!
Posted by ariadne on 2005-10-12 22:29:08
Post Subject: vintige clothes patterns circa 1970's ;where to get
i have an old Mccalls patt (6876) for a drop shouldered "chinese"jacket (view b ) that i lost the fronts, sleeves and facings for and i wondered if any one can help me find the same patt .It's dated 1979, there are 5 different views. it's a miss size 10(bust size 32 1/2 ins ). i really want to make this jacket as i can't find any thing similar new. i'm making a quilted jacket as part of my quilting groups show next year so i have a bit of time to find this patt.
any info at all will be welcome.
Posted by Athos on 2004-08-02 16:30:45
Post Subject:
xuli, i have a really good quilting book i can bring to the next SnB for you. i'd be happy to loan it to you for a couple of months (but it was a gift, and i am planning on quilting some next year, so i do need it back).
i also recommend checking out the gee's bend exhibit from the whitney, and denyse schmidt's quilts, for a modern take.
Gee's Bend
http://www.npr.org/display_pages/features/feature_970364.html
Posted by stella on 2007-05-13 23:57:46
Post Subject:
if your sewing machine has a zigzag or stretch stitch is is *possible* to sew knits. you don't stretch the material under the foot, and actually, the difficult thing is keeping the feed dogs from stretching the fabric too much as you sew. a walking or even-feed foot is the best way to accomplish this. they are a little pricey, but make quilting, sewing velvet or napped fabric, or stretchy fabrics possible, so i think they are worth it.
sergers automatically trim the selvedge as they cut, so you can't get that perfect edge that you find on manufactured t-shirts without one. a lot of newer sewing machines have a good stretch stitch, and even basic machines usually have a zigzag.
the current issue of Threads Magazine has an article on sewing jersey that you might want to check out.
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.
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!
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).
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.
Posted by karikazo on 2004-06-15 09:10:01
Post Subject:
Hi, CraftELee!
Here are a couple of my favorites.
http://www.equilter.com because they have a really big selection of quilting (and some other) fabrics, and donate a part of their profits to charity.
http://www.borntoquilt.com because they have some cool Japanese fabrics and other neat prints, and they are always super-fast with my order and very nice.
http://www.sttheresatextile.com/ I've never ordered from these guys, but they have an amazing selection of neat fabrics at St. Theresa's.
I have bookmarks to some smaller places, too; let me know if you're looking for something different.
Posted by sarabell on 2005-04-12 12:26:49
Post Subject:
the best book i've come across for crocheting instructions is the Reader's Digest Complete guide to Needlework. i learned to crochet from my gramma and my mom, but the more advanced stiches etc. i got from that book. it also has great instructions for knitting, embroidery, quilting, rug-making, needlepoint, patchwork, lacework, macrame, and applique. not a lot of good project ideas, at least not in the 1979 edition, but i prefer to make my own patterns. i know there's a newer edition, but i bought mine used.
once you're comfortable crocheting, The Crochet Workbook by Cosh & Walters (St. Martin's Press) is a great resource for doing more freestyle work. a lot of imaginative ideas; more of a stepping stone and inspiring thing to do your own thang, rather than having a lot of specific patterns.
Posted by lacurie on 2006-05-19 15:15:49
Post Subject: Looking for NYC Quilters/Home Sewers for possible projects
Hello,
I have been in correspondence with the host of a popular craft show about the possibility of developing a new, "youth" targeted quilting mini-series and am looking for anyone around the city who might want to brainstorm ideas, work on related projects, or just generally help out with this exciting (if tenuous) opportunity. Feel free to drop me a line with any questions or to express interest at carriemiller76@hotmail.com.
Posted by Diana on 2006-07-18 13:50:17
Post Subject:
Several years ago I developed some serious allergies due to all the painting, rubber stamping and other polymer pigments that I was continuously playing with. And at the time I had boxes and boxes and boxes of supplies. I ended up having a big yard sale, and then donated the remainder to the local elementry school. Now I do mostly needlework, sewing and quilting. Now when I need to do a bit of weeding out I send the fabric scraps to either a friend who teaches elementry school or to the local Boys and Girls Club. They can use just about any type of craft supply that you are willing to give them and put it to good use!! I try to head things off in the beginning before they pile up by not going in certain stores too often. I try to only allow myself one trip a month to my favourite needlework shop. While I seem to be doing fairly well in weeding out all the other un-used, un-necessary, and just un-real stuff in my life, the hardest of all has been the craft supplies--all that potential!! And I never met a piece of fabric that I didn't like!!
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.
Posted by pteryla on 2005-10-06 12:49:57
Post Subject:
I think the detailed instructions from the earlier post sound great, and I love the idea of making a quilt top into a duvet cover. My only concern is that using a sheet could be a problem-- you generally don't want to quilt with a sheet, because of the high thread count, which is tough on needles. But if you're only sewing edges, you might be okay. I still might pick an expanse of good quilting flannel instead. But if money is an issue, just use a tough needle for the sheet.
I have a question of my own: Any recommendations for laundering an antique quilt top? My thought is handwashing, cold, with something gentle like Woollite. I have a few that I would like to get to work on this winter.
Oh, and making your duvet cover will doubtless take much less time than quilting.
Posted by sew-rae-me on 2006-10-28 13:58:46
Post Subject: UK crafter
Hi,
I have just joined up and I am in sunny Widnes, near Liverpool!
It's nice to see other UK crafters on the net, what kind of crafts do you do? I'm a bit of a jack of all trades, including cross stitch, wedding dress creation, quilting, patchwork, and more recently doll house and miniatures! Then of course I also like decoupage anddoing up junk furniture. Add to the mix my two sons (one of which is disabled) and my brilliant husband, two dogs, and until recently 12 rescue cats, and you can see that I lead a busy life!
Now, what can I do next?
Posted by c_zimmerman724 on 2004-07-29 23:07:29
Post Subject: cheap creative gift ideas
Okay, I have a dilemma. I owe just about everyone in my immediate family a gift, whether its birthday, graduation, anniversary, or whatever. I need ideas on what to make for really cheap. Here are my family's interests:
Dad: civil war buff, gardening
Mom: quilting, teapots, angels
Emily: safari, her boyfriend, butterflies, baking
Adam: VWs, drafting
My brother and sister both live at home still, but will be moving out soon so any ideas on something useful to them would be great. Thanks!!
Posted by karikazo on 2004-10-06 11:48:07
Post Subject:
ooh, this is such an interesting question. I think about it a lot because of the quilting angle--it's certainly common, even among dedicated quilters, to pay someone else to do the quilting (a step which is VERY time-consuming if you do it by hand, and may require specialized equipment if you do it by machine).
Even a quilt artist like Nancy Crow--http://www.nancycrow.com/--usually pays someone else to quilt her tops, though she chooses the quilting design, so all the design decisions have been made by her. She's the grande dame of art quilters, and like other art quilters, when her quilts are exhibited, credit is given to the woman who did the quilting. Though it's still a "nancy crow" quilt.
I have mixed feelings about the practice.
I agree it's totally great for people to do *any* kind of crafting, and if paying someone to do the part you find tedious, or don't know how to do, will allow you to craft stuff that you wouldn't have otherwise, then yay for that. As long as any work that is sold or exhibited gives proper credit to those who contributed.
On the other hand, I think I would feel like I was "cheating" if I did it. Especially because quilting a full-size quilt is a very significant process. It's not just "oh, here's these last couple of technical steps to finish it off." The quilting designs, and the skill with which they're executed, have a significant impact on the aesthetic impact of the quilt. I make quilts partly because I love the process (including the months of hand-quilting) and partly because I want to exercise creative control over something, to make my own creative decisions.
Also, I'm still learning my craft. My hand-quilting has improved tremendously from practice, but is still nowhere near as great as those Amish ladies' quilting (sigh...). I wouldn't feel like I really "own" my craft, and my quilts, if I shirked that learning process. Having a creative vision and getting joy from the process are both very important in my quilting, but those things must be supported by technical excellence, no matter how damn long (*gritting teeth*) it takes me to learn it!
And, frankly, I also feel a tiny bit of jealously of those who can pay someone else to baste, mark, quilt, and bind their quilts. Because I could get a lot more done if I could afford to do that. I have dozens of quilts rolling around in my head that I can't start yet because I have so many other projects underway. But I can't afford to pay a nice Amish lady to quilt for me, so instead I grumble privately about how paying someone to quilt your tops is "cheating".....when really it's just another way of approaching the craft, and one that's been practiced for a long time.
oh dear god I wrote a book. Basically I think that people making stuff should be the end goal, and there's not one perfect way to do that and be a "good" crafter or quilter. Personally, I wouldn't pay someone to finish my quilts even if I could afford it, and I plan to feel proud that I do them myself. But I'm also glad that Nancy Crow is free to spend more of her time designing fantastic quilt tops, since they are a source of inspiration to me.
As stubborn as I am, I am still making a quilt. I bought the fabric on Friday and most of the pieces are already cut. I have already hand-sewn 10 of the 61 blocks it contains. The actual quilting part will be the longest, but in the meantime I have enlisted my fiancé's help in the cutting and marking so it will go quicker. It will be one busy month, but she IS one of my closest friends!
I'll post pictures on my blog as soon as it's done.
Posted by alfabet_soup on 2004-07-15 08:34:34
Post Subject:
Plan a day in NYC. There's nothing like it, which you probably already know. I can tell you where all the cheapo remnant stores are, if you don't have a list. It's my experience that once JoAnn gets its claws into a town, your sewing days are over, unless you really like overly precious quilting cotton.
Posted by Morgan on 2004-12-29 18:25:15
Post Subject:
I did the same thing with the cardboard template of a square to make my first quilt. I traced around it, I think, then cut out the shape, but my squares weren't too even. & it didn't get any better int eh final quilt, but oh well, it looks extra homemade! You really don't notice it unless you look closely. I got a rotary cutter afterwards, & it was pretty cool... they sell a kit at Joanne's for like $40, so my mom bought it for me using a half price coupon. Okay, found it here's a link:
http://www.joann.com/catalog.jhtml?CATID=24988&PRODID=47248
If you want a traditional quilt, you do the whole top & do a bottom or use a plain piece of fabric (a sheet works great) for the bottom, & sew it together at the end with batting in the middle (an old mattress pad or blanket is perfect!). So you'll be quilting the three layers at the end. If you wanted to quilt each square then sew them together, I think you could make one of those quilts with the exposed seams.... but I don't really know. Never tried it. I think it would be nice though, because I think it's akward to try to move around a big quilt during the quilting part.
Oh, my granny says it's very important to iron all your seams flat in between... but I have problems folowing this rule because it's so boring to iron!! I like to think it doesn't make a difference... but all the experts say it does!
Posted by jennjitsu on 2005-03-27 13:47:11
Post Subject:
I have had a stellar experience with my Pfaff. It's the Hobby 1042 model (I think I got that right). Since I don't do quilting, it has everything I need. And it PURRS!
Posted by happyhats on 2005-09-13 01:46:50
Post Subject:
Thanks, guys. I'm glad to know I'm not alone. I think for right now I'm going to keep my options open and use this time to experiment more with crafting and creativity. I'm very interested in taking classes, and looking up information in my local library about knitting, quilting, canning, and making more homemade food goodness for my home. I think that since I'm not unhappy with myself right now, or my life, instead of feeling antsy I'll just try to take a deep breathe and keep my options open.
Posted by keiko on 2004-07-04 18:00:19
Post Subject:
I use this plastic sheet thing that is supposed to be for quilting (but they put it near the stencil section of Ben Franklins...) it's really easy to cut with an xacto and because it is clear, I tape whatever picture I'm using to the back and can cut it with minimal damage to the picture.
Posted by ambelina on 2004-09-30 15:43:10
Post Subject:
Hooray for old Singers and Quilting in Brooklyn!
I belong to a little quilting group in Brooklyn if you want to join a few other quilting nuts (mostly completely novice, but some with experience) for a little live interaction, help, fun, etc.
Come to the Church of Craft if you're interested: they meet 2nd Sunday of every month (that's next weekend) in Brooklyn.
As for your questions:
I think the whole forward, back, forward doesn't matter as long as the stitch gets locked somehow. In piecing a quilt, you don't lock the beginning and end stitches because you're going to sew another seam over the beginning of the seam anyway, so no worry. Also, if you're sewing all the way around something, like a pillow, when you get to the end, you're back at the beginning, and you just keep going to cover the first few stitches. OR... if you can either drop the feed dogs (the part that comes up and pushes your fabric back for you - "underneath" your stitching) or pick up the pressure foot, you can probably either fake a backwards stitch or just stitch one or two in place, which would have the same effect as an initial backstitch.
Hope that makes sense. Email me if you want the info for Church of Craft: amber_wiley at hotmail.com
Posted by karikazo on 2005-02-09 09:39:35
Post Subject:
I also like http://www.borntoquilt.com because they've always had really nice customer service, though they don't have as large a selection as eQuilter.
Depending on your tastes, you can also check out the thrift stores for cool fabrics in old clothes. Some quilters prefer to use all proper quilting cottons (which are more consistent in weave, weight, etc.), but you can get some neat effects by using other fabrics, too. (Just consider washability.)
Posted by sewing stars on 2004-06-03 07:40:46
Post Subject:
My obession with fabric is ridiculous. I just moved and the amounts that I have accumulated in fabrics is a little scary.
Every summer my friend and I drive from RI to ME. I have this book, The Quilter's Companion. We go to as many quilting fabric stores as possible. The book is a great resource, if you are looking for quilting fabrics (cotton/cotton blends with prints).
When I go online to order fabric I go to equilter.com.
Posted by xuli on 2004-10-06 20:45:32
Post Subject:
oh dear god I wrote a book.
Yeah, but it was a really, really, really good book! Seriously ... I think that by concentrating so specifically on one craft (quilting), you really brought out both sides of the issue and helped me understand why I'm so conflicted about it. Because on the one hand, I really would have sooooo much more time for making cool stuff if I didn't have to do the tedious finishing. But -- part of the reason I often hate finishing (whether knitting or quilting or anything else) is because I feel like I'm not good at it. Or at least that I'm not *as* good at that part as I am at the creative, fun part. And when I do that tedious work myself, I feel like I'm investing in gaining knowledge and skills that are being slowly but surely lost in the general human population. Which is kind of why I think it's a totally great idea for "professional" crafters to get help with the finishing (as long as it's properly credited), but I feel really uncomfortable with the idea of an amateur like myself doing the same thing.
Posted by xuli on 2004-10-01 19:09:00
Post Subject:
Thanks for your thoughts, Craftistas! These are all good points being brought up, and I especially like this analogy from Athos:
i think it's the same as finding a dress pattern and fabric you like, and paying a seamstress to make it for you. nothing wrong with it, but you didn't make the dress yourself.
I totally understand people who are dedicated to a craft, but don't necessarily have the ability to finish all aspects of the craft. And I understand people who have crafty businesses -- especially people who sell quilts -- because it's just so much more efficient time-wise to have someone else doing the "grunt" work when what you're marketing are your own crafty designs and ideas. (And Shawneemonkey's example of the Amish women doing it is really good, too, because my understanding of quilting businesses that have Amish ladies do the quilting and pay them fairly for it is that they are investing in a really high-quality product, because Amish women have been passing down this knowledge for such a long long long time and have lots of knowledge and experience that your average hobby quilter just wouldn't have.)
But -- for hand-made things made for personal use ... I dunno. My friend's mom as example: I'd always admired my friend's quilts, and she always told me with such pride that her mom makes them. Then as I started getting really interested in quilts and really looking at the work on them, my friend was like, "Well .... actually .... she didn't do that part. She designed and pieced it though." It just seemed weird, even though my friend's mom wasn't the one claiming to do it herself.
And I guess another thing is that I get *such* a feeling of satisfaction out of a knitted garment after I've done all the blocking and seaming and tedious finishing stuff. I'm just not sure if I'd get that really satisfied feeling if I didn't do it all myself. I mean, yarn can be so expensive, and a knitted garment (even when made with relatively inexpensive yarn) is such an investment of my personal money, energy, time and work. But it's worth it in the end to me because I feel like I've really put myself into it. And I love being able to say, "I made that." It just seems like it would change the relationship between me and the things I make if I were to say, "I sorta made that."
Posted by xuli on 2004-10-01 10:32:12
Post Subject:
I've been trying to teach myself how to quilt for a few months and having a *ton* of fun with it. Like you, I'm totally intimmidated by the quilting shop and taking a class isn't an option for me, so I've been browsing quilting books pretty obsessively. My bf likes going to Borders a lot, so I just go with him, plop myself down in the craft section, and check out the different books until he's ready to leave. I'm planning to buy a book eventually, but I'm trying to figure out which one has the clearest instructions and best information before I do. In the meantime, I've learned a *ton* just from browsing.
Also, you should look up a thread I started a few months ago asking for online links for first time quilters -- some great experienced craftistas put some links in there that have been invaluable to me.
ETA: Oh, and congrats on the sewing machine find! That's awesome!
Posted by breewell on 2004-09-30 12:37:31
Post Subject: old singer sewing machine AND quilting help
Hi,
I recently got an old singer sewing machine ("born" in october 1919 in NJ). It was only $20 so I figured that if all I could do was look at it lovingly I would be happy. To my surprise, when I got it cleaned and oiled the guy said it ran great! It's one of the ones that would have had a treadle, but now is retro-fitted with a motor.
My problem is that when I learnt to sew in grade 8 home-ec I was taught to start by doing "3 stitch forward, 3 stitch back, continue forward". I don't see a reverse lever on this machine, so, am I supposed to do 3 stitches, turn the work, do 3 more, and then turn the work back, OR is that not the right method for "locking" the stitches at the end of the line and there is a better way? I have been doing simple mending around the house so it hasn't been a problem yet but am starting a quilt and want the easiest method possible!
On to quilting, I have a pattern that I love, but really need a very basic how-to to go over everything from the start, including applique. Any suggestions for books out there? I'm pretty intimidated by the quilting store here in new york, and can't afford a class right now anyway.
Posted by lizzymahoney on 2004-05-18 20:50:45
Post Subject:
Try about.com for basic stuff. They are a little heavy with the ads, but they will have info on anything and tons of links if that's not enough. I'm going to be searching there soon for a type of quilting that I dreamed about.
You'll probably want to scrounge up some tools for beading. If you use tiger tail or metal findings you'll want something to snip with. A pair of needlenose pliers with that indent near the pivot for cutting metal is pretty versatile.
One of the best things to do is just follow anyone's links and visit crafty girls' sites to see how they've done something. Scarlet_a's fabulous button cuff is hard to figure out, but lots of times you can see exactly how something was strung together. Also check your local library for any craft books on beading. It could even be in the children's section.
Posted by karikazo on 2004-08-04 07:36:23
Post Subject:
I also like these guys' designs:
http://www.funquilts.com/
click on "quilt gallery" to look at the images.
I'll have to go take a look at my book collection and see what was most helpful to me at first, but I'd suggest just sitting down either at the bookstore or library and looking at several books--they are all a little different, and individual tastes will vary. There's one called "The Quilter's Visual Guide" (I think) which is helpful for having lots of photos.
Quilting is VERY addictive, but it's loads of fun. I have a quilt-in-progress in my office and work on it every day during my lunch hour. So even though I work mostly by hand (and very slowly), it still gets done if I do a little on a regular basis.
Posted by maka10 on 2005-05-22 09:50:16
Post Subject: Quilt/sewing/craft table
Question for y'all: does anyone know where to get a large quilting/sewing/craft table that doesn't cost hundreds of dollars? A friend of mine is making curtains. She saw a table that had a one-inch square grid printed on it and also diagonal lines (to line up cuts).
Any ideas?
Thanks!!!
Posted by Sewlittletime on 2005-05-22 21:45:40
Post Subject:
That's a good question!
My folks got me a folding cutting table a few years back from Jo Ann fabrics, I think. I believe it was under $100. But I still need to buy a rotary cutting mat to fit the top of it.
My dad helped my mom make a huge padded quilting board w/ a full 4x 8 piece of plywood.
Ummm...that's all I got! LOL!
Posted by nanette on 2004-08-02 15:39:34
Post Subject:
laurabee,
Count me in! I'm in Champaign as well, and would love to meet up with other crafters. I'm also a dabbler in a lot of different crafts (knitting, sewing, quilting, crocheting...you name it, I'll try it) and would love to learn more!
Posted by karikazo on 2004-05-04 08:07:48
Post Subject:
Morgan, I love that ds string quilt, too. The colors are so great.
When you talk about the designs on the quilts....do you mean the quilting (not pieced/appliqueed) part? And what kind of shapes do you mean?
I quilt by hand and I usually either a) echo the pattern of the pieced shapes (just quilting in or around them, in the same shapes) or b) do a simple geometric thing to contrast. A simple crosshatch of diagonal squares or lines is one of my favorites. I have a great little chalk wheel I use to draw the lines on the top of the quilt right before I quilt that line (I use a ruler or the edge of a book or whatever to help get the line straight).
For other patterns, like "feathers", cables, wreaths, or (for a more modern look) concentric circles (ds uses that a lot, and I love the look)...well, for concentric circles you could probably use a compass. I haven't tried this, so someone let me know if you have a better method of marking these. I've tried just eyeballing it and it's hard to do IF you want them to come out accurate (on the other hand, the wiggly homemade look can be really nice, too).
For feathers, cables, etc., a stencil is a big help. Quilt shops and fabric shops have them. There are also some books that tell you how to draft your own shapes and make your own stencils.
You can also machine-quilt, of course. You can get some neat techniques with wacky threads (invisible, metallic, etc.) that way, or use very very small motifs that would be impossible to hand-quilt but can be cranked out on the machine with practice (and may not even need to be marked on the top first). I haven't tried machine-quilting, however.
There's a great book called The Fine Line http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0809298848/qid=1083675755/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/102-9875854-7181707?v=glance&s=books that deals with how to choose a quilting design that will look great (and be practical) on your quilt. The quilts in that book are great inspiration anyway (no teddy bears!). See if your library has it--I highly recommend it.
Oh, I forgot to mention The Quilt Index.
http://www.quiltindex.org/ It's sort of a digital library for different online quilt exhibits, and it's really nice if you want a chance to look at a lot of older quilts. My favorite is this one: http://www.quiltindex.org/basicdisplay.php?pbd=illinoistest-a0a0b6-a Such a fantastic quilt!!
Posted by lizzymahoney on 2004-05-02 08:33:44
Post Subject:
Not obsessed, but conversant. I'm kinda oldfashioned and more inclined to reuse, like your quilt of old clothing bits. Also came at quilting from embroidery where I wanted to go more 3D. My quilting has been pieced and stitched by hand.
Cathedral window is my favorite, though I find most applications of it less than inspired. I prefer a neutral background for that pattern, could be white/beige/brown/gray/black, although I have done it in red, too. The window inset needs to be suggestive of 3D or at least variable enough in print to give the impression of stained glass or of movement. Batiks and tie dyes work well for the insets. I have used trapunto and blackwork to good effect as well.
There's a quilting technique that's pretty new and has great potential if it doesn't get Mcfadded. It's called Stack and Whack. The principle is finding a printed fabric with a bold and measurable repeat. Then you cut that into matching layers of the one repeat. With a rotary cutter you cut triangular shapes, or Dresden plate spokes, or something that will be repeated in a circle. By careful choices, you can get a wheel of a surfer hanging ten eight times or so around a circle. For the next panel, choose a complementary motif and color to stack and whack. I'm sure this gets boring after your third one or so.
Batiks are made for quilting! So perfect with the subtlety of tone. The colors seem to undulate in a quilt. Stuff like denyse's drunk love could be made with batik strips to add vibrancy.
Have you seen those photo montages of stuff like Bushie's face made up of tiny photos of all the soldiers who have died in Iraq? Sorted and filtered by color and shading? I'm looking for a link to that one so you can see what I mean. You can do this with quilting, especially for one big image over an entire quilt.
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?
Posted by anthrogirl on 2006-12-04 21:51:10
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I think, Anthrogirl, that what a lot of people are gently pointing out is that part of what you're interpreting as moral superiority is, in fact, privilege. Citibank isn't funding skating rinks in New York because the recognize the innate superiority of New York over podunk. They're funding stuff in New York because that's where the rich people congregate, and those are the people whose attention they want. And if podunk isn't holding winter festivals, it may be because the local businesses are struggling too hard to compete with Wal-mart to have much left over to contribute to the civic good. What I see here is a bit of the rich sneering at the poor, because even if you aren't rich in New York, you benefit mightily from the resources of those who are.
Don't get me wrong: I love New York. I spent six years there, and I miss it sometimes. But I wish New Yorkers would be a bit more open-minded about the rest of the country.
Actually, I know it's privilege- to a great extent.
But I once dated a guy who lived ina small town in Massachussetts- they had a one-week winter festival there every year. It wasn't gigantic, but it was a heck of a lot of fun. I have a friend who lives in a small college town in rural Virginia- so small that the town only has one 'official' building, a Pentecostal church. The winter tradition was for everyone to buy their trees from the local tree farm and leather shop. The guy served hot chocolate. I spent one of the best Christmases ever there. The day after Christmas, we went to the annual girl's basketball game, and it was fun watching so many people cheering on their favorite team.
While certain things are about living in an area with tons of money to spend on civic decoration (in part because of tourism- most New Yorkers never go see the Thanksgiving Day Parade, or even walk along Fifth Avenue), there are plenty of towns that have their own way of celebrating, aren't there? A friend of mine lives in upstate New york, in an area that is touristy in the summer and empty of everyone but locals during the winter- he goes to visit his neighbors at holiday time, and they keep an eye out for each other. When I was half-joking about ice-skating and potato shacks by ponds, or or when I joke with my sweety about quilting bees, I do so because my friend in rural Virginia actually lives in an area where people get together for making projects for charity. My frined in upstate New York does actually have a firehouse near him that holds pancake breakfasts, like something out of a 40s movie, and the firefighters do it every year. Incidentally, my boyfriend thinks his town is stingy because his local Shriner group is among the few who do anything- they sponsor a circus every year and donate money to Shriner-run hospitals for sick children. They also sponsor an annual baseball game and the money goes to the same place.
When I picture small towns, that's what I picture. Like I said, I'm naive (the same way suburbanites are naive about big city living which seems to picture drug dealers on every subway train and people who never donate money to anything- as was said on Fox this past week about San Francisco, wherein it was claimed that people don't give to charity). My naivete comes in part from living in a town that is considered to be at the forefront of the 'war against Christmas'. For a town that has been accused of only caring about money and not people, and more about diversity for the sake of diversity and not about homely values like giving back to society or civic virtue, individuals here (most of our charities were started by ordinary people, not the city itself) do seem to try to give a bit of themselves at holiday time. That was the point that Charles Dickens made a lot better than I could over a hundred years ago. While the people of London had enough money to do certain charitable things on a grand scale, a town's merchants and residents don't have to be rich to provide joy. People here who are finishing up projects for Project Night Night aren't doing it because they are rich or have someone helping them. Some of them don't have much at all, and aren't capable of putting tons of money into their projects. But it does take a certain kind of mindset. My boyfirned's town has a mindset in which carolling is discouraged, and in which Halloween is seen as proof of the Devil at work. Local priests and pastors encouraged their congregations to get trick or treating curtailed by the town government. Yet the same town had money to build a monstrosity of a convention center that was a boondoggle from the start.
Sorry, but some of it in his town reminds me of a college where I work. The students recently voted to work on raising money to expand the new student center so that more parties can be held there. The student center is enormous- it's the largest building on campus. The Library, on the other hand, is inadequate. Most of my students can't find it (or have never tried), and it's in the middle of campus. It needs new book collections- after all, college is supposed to be about studying, not partying. But none of the many frats or sororities seem to be interested in that cause. They want meeting rooms for their four years at college, even as the college is expanding and trying to expand its reputation as an academic center. Yet there are students who think tha other students who win academic awards are stupid and are wasting their time- the student-run newspaper hardly ever mentions academic award winners.
Is it privilege to think that members some towns might be wrong minded to not plan on making holidays nice for people because some larger cities do that, or is it a curiosity that makes some of us wonder about life in some places that are located in what might be called the heartland, and what people do during the holiday season to foster a sense of community? Because commentators are always talking about how city-dwellers don't have community feeling, but people in the heartland do, and that they take care of their own without needing Federal funding or charities because the people are more moral and possibly more godly. That's what I've been hearing for about 12 years now. Nevertheless, it's not in San Francisco that people are objecting to a Muslim taking his oath of office on a Koran, and it wasn't in New York that a kid threw a girl into a bonfire because he felt that Jews should burn. Is that a matter of privilege, or something else? We certainly have enough ignorant people here, so maybe it is privilege. But I suspect that it might be something else. Ditto, I suspect that 'something else' is found in cities and towns across America and around the world. I'm not arrogant enough to think New Yorkers have a lock on it.
Posted by micrafty on 2006-09-24 16:18:45
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So nice to hear you spend time with your boys that way and inspire their creativity. So many of the schools are taking art out and our children miss out on so much.
Funny thing with me is Mom tried to very hard to get me to make things when I was a youngster and I just would not cooperate. Finger paint - nah, rather make mud pies. Glue pieces of felt together - rather watch Sesame Street. Color - BORING! Guess, I was just too much of a tomboy.
My grandmother finally taught me how to crochet, but I didn't really get hooked, (pun intended) until I was in college.
Flash forward more years than I'll admit and I'm a crafty freak. Don't get me started about cool yarns, crochet, quilting, beading, learning how to make clothes, and all the crafts I keep restraining myself from getting involved in.
