Jaybird Quilts

Document the process

2012-02-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been thinking a bunch about the process. Often for one reason or another I can't share my process with you. Keeping projects a secret is by far my least favorite part of this biz. Anyway I decided I'm going to document and share some of my process. Keep in mind things change, and this amazing quilt I see in my head might turn out horrible and if that happens you might never see it. {Lets all hope that isn't the case.}

24 photos from one hour taken with my iPhone via Hipstamatic Disposable app. Seriously this is my new favorite app. Above is the giant collage... below is a little more detail on each photo. The fabrics are Palladium by Dear Stella and while it's a much calmer combo of colors for me... I'm really digging this fabric.

I don't think I've ever told you before that I write the pattern first. I started doing that a long time ago & I've found that it helps me work out the issues early on in the process vs. writing the pattern after I've made the quilt.

Yes I really am this meticulous with my fabric cutting. Some may even say it's a bit OCD. I'd take that as a compliment.

The nails may be pretty... but I'm still getting used to having them again. Mine grow so fast and I don't function very well with long nails!

I don't know how much I'll be able to share from now until the pattern is done, but I'll share as I can. Even when I can't share right away I'm going to make an effort to document the process more often. That way when I can show you... I will!

I don't know how they do it.

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

They = Bloggers who have kids.

I'm giving each and every one of you a virtual high five.Blogging with kids can't be easy... heck I'm just the aunt and I couldn't find time to get it done!!

My week in LA was great. I spent time at CHA, spent some 1 on 1 time with Aliyah, lots of family time, went to a LAMQG meeting, took a class with Anna Maria Horner & even made a visit to Robert Kaufman's offices. The rest of my family joined us for the weekend and we spent some time watching airplanes at the Santa Monica airport. Later that night we all got dressed up for a gala event where Brad & Karin were honored by their synagogue.

I'm behind on e-mail... and sewing... & blogging... but as a good friend just pointed out "Enjoy your life. It's the only one you get!"

So here are some photos of me enjoying my life.

me... my new bag & amh

my twin for the day

who knew that coral shirts & jeans along with super cute glasses was the way to go?!

24 photos from one day

taken with 2 iPhones via Hipstamatic Disposable app

The day starts with me & both the kids... then just me & Aliyah stay home while Brad & Karin took Elijah in for treatment. Brad & I each took photos during the day and then Brad snapped the last one of me holding Elijah when we all met up again for Lunch. Elijah is still in treatment & will be for a few years, but things are good. He's a very very strong & brave little boy.

{Scrapbook element from Project Life digital kit... more on my addiction to Project Life soon! Font is CK Ali's Hand}

late night scrapbooking with Karin

all smiles for breakfast

Waving bye to the airplane

cheese!

coming in for a landing

my family likes our cameras :-)
we really really like our cameras :-)

Karin snapping a photo of me... while I snapped one of her.

here is her photo

waiting

still waiting

i see one!

the girls

My SIL Karin, niece Aliyah, mom & me.

the boys

My special someone, my dad, my nephew Elijah & my brother Brad.

another photo of someone taking a photo.

we like to capture everything!

more giggles.
love this kid {and her brother too}

making Lego lemonade stands at Toys R Us to raise money for Alex's Lemonade Stand

pretending to be a kid while at Toys R Us

all dressed up for the gala

me & mom

me & dad

Brad & Karin

We all had a great time at the event. Congrats again to Brad & Karin!
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I hope you enjoyed this peek at me enjoying life. Now can someone please come help me clean my studio & answer all my e-mail??

© Blog post written by Julie Herman

For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

CHA - Craft & Hobby Association Show

2012-01-31T10:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to the CHA Winter Trade Show. The CHA {Craft & Hobby Association} Winter show is going on right now in Anaheim... and since I live within driving distance I decided to check it out.

side note... blogging from my old PC laptop vs. my lovely mac desktop.... not even close!
So i apologize for the lack of photo editing & adding of detailed captions. More photos & info to come... but here is a peek at some of what I saw.

Ashley of Little Blue Boo
love this girl. love her spirit.

Mod Podge

Dear Lizzy
{took this photo just for you rachel}

We R Memory Keepers

Love their binders!

Swaggerdoodle - They have an amazing frame that I'm planning to get a few of.

Anna Griffin

Ali Edwards

Basic Grey

Creative Crafts Group

Duck Tape... covered chairs!

Heidi Swapp

French General has scrapbook & paper supplies now too!

I even made a quilt block in the I Love to Create Bloggers Lounge

The supplies...

My block.
...No Day But Today!

more soon!

...today I'm headed to Sew Modern to take a class from Anna Maria Horner... it'll be nice to be a student for the day!

I'm in LA all week... so if it takes me longer than usual to get back to e-mails that's why! I mean really... would you be responding to e-mails or playing with this little one?... and her brother who is busy playing a game on his iPad...

Aliyah @ 21 Months

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Hanging Sleeves

2012-01-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

I like to hang quilts around my house. One of the easiest ways to do this is with a hanging sleeve. I used to make my own sleeves until I discovered the pre-made sleeves from Quilters Hangup.

The sleeves are pleated which means that once they are hanging on a rod the front will still stay flat. Not sure what I mean? Check out the comparison photos on their website.

The sleeves come in pack that is 3 yards long. You can cut it apart and create a few sleeves for small quilts at the same time. I suggest cutting it about 1" narrower than your quilt width & attaching it 3/4" to 1" from the top of your finished quilt. The pleated part needs to be placed facing out & then the sleeve can be hand stitched in place. Be careful & make sure your stitched only go through the backing and batting and not the quilt top as you don't want them to show on the front. Full directions are available on Quilters Hangup.

This shows how the pleat will enable the quilt to stay flat.

Here is the back after stitching it in place.

...and here it is hanging on the wall!

I used the same methods to create a sleeve for the mini-quilt that Rachel made me. For small quilts like this one and my Jaybird Quilts sign above I used 3/8" dowel rods. I get them at Home Depot & cut them down to the width of the quilt.

Since I frequently change my mind & want to move things I avoid using nails unless I really need to. Larger quilts will probably need them due to weight, but these were both small enough to use Command Hooks. I've found that the Command Adhesive Mini Hooks & the Command Adhesive Micro Utility Hooks both work great for hanging mini quilts.

So grab one of those mini-quilts you have sitting around... add a sleeve & hang it up!

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

My Tula Pink Inspired Room - Part 2

2012-01-25T09:35:00.000-08:00

My room is almost done! In part one I showed you the paint colors, some of my new furniture & accessories. Last week I showed you my new quilt top that will eventually be the quilt for my bed in this room. Well now I have most of it done so I figured I'd share an update!

These shelf/basket combo pieces came from Home Goods. When I bought them I had planned on painting them white or coral, but now I think I might leave them as is for a while. I hung the quilt Rachel gave me and added a few accessories.

The birds I've had for a while. I think they came from JoAnns. The candle was a recent present and smells quite yummy. The candle holder was another Home Goods find. {That place has so much good stuff!}

I'm still using a quilt as a temporary curtain... with giant ricrac as the tie back.

I traded the white shams for large 27" square navy ones.
{Pillow forms from local craft store & covers from Ikea}
I also added sheer white curtains above the bed & computer. {also from Ikea}

I wasn't sure where to store my DVDs. I settled on hiding them behind my door on a slim iron dvd rack from the container store.

When my door is open you don't even know it is there.

My entertainment/storage part of the room is done. The TV blends right in with the navy wall & when it isn't on you barely notice it.

I love the little boat but I'm not sold on it's location yet. It actually has hardware on the back to be hung on the wall but I haven't decided where I want it.

The white piece has a ton of storage for all my photos and collectibles. The tall pieces have glass doors which also helps protect everything.

1. Ceramics I made in High School

2. A photo of me & Lauren

3. A favorite childhood photo of me & my brother

4. A young photo of Elijah & A photo from my college graduation

5. Harry Potter Legos {you are never too old for legos}

6. Some of my M&M collectibles. Did you know they made MLB M&M dispensers and candy? I love my Phillies dispenser!

I used the 360 app on my phone to create this photo. You can click on it to see it larger.

Just a few more finishing touches... and a quilted quilt & I'll be done!

Road to California Quilt Show 2012

2012-01-23T09:26:00.000-08:00

I spent Saturday at the Road to California Quilt Show. I wasn't working in a booth... I was just there to shop & look at the quilts. It was nice to just enjoy the show.

The place was pretty busy.

I got a chance to catch up with MaryAnn. We've been blog/california quilt show friends for a few years now.

I also caught up with Vicky, Nicole, Honey Run Quilters, Sheri, Verna, Cozy Quilt Shop & so many more people and shops!

Sandy Klop of American Jane

Stephanie from A Quilter's Dream had a beautiful booth as always.

Along with some great new bags!

My Off the Rail quilt was on display in Old Made Quilts.

These quilts were from a special collection put together by Ricky Tims.
All that Jazz - Improvisational Quilts
Left - Woods Walk by Valerie Maser-Flanagan
Right - Waters Edge #1 by Valerie Maser-Flanagan

There was a special exhibit of work by Susan Else. This Ferris Wheel was motorized and pretty amazing in person.

All of her work was beautiful, but I think this one was my favorite. It's called Forever Yours.

There were hundreds of show quilts on display. For anyone who hasn't been to a quilt show I highly recommend it as some things just can't be appreciated in photographs.

I really enjoyed Wendy Lee Petroglyph. I got a few panels from here. Once I come up with a plan I'll show you!

It was nice to catch up with Natalie of Beyond the Reef

It was a rainy mess for the drive up to the show... but this was the view at the end of the day. The drive back was quite beautiful.

This was the sunset on the drive home. A prefect ending to a great day.

PLAN - my 2012 word of the year

2012-01-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

Have you ever picked a word of the year?

I know many people that do this pick something like organize, embrace, simplify, peace and so on. There is nothing wrong with those words, {or any word anyone picks} but none of it ever seemed to fit me. I'm not big on New Year's Resolutions because I think you can make a change at any time. That being said I decided when I woke up this morning that I wanted a word for this year. It didn't take me long to realize my word is PLAN.

Random photo of some of my fabric since this post needed more color.

Plan my time better. I have some big time management issues. I'm sure some of it comes from the cross country move, but I have never really been good in this area. I'm good at getting things done at the last minute but that doesn't mean my body likes the stress of it.

Plan my projects. Yes sometimes I want to sit & sew just to sew, but I'd be less stressed if I planned out my projects a bit more. I've got so many ideas for Jaybird Quilts that sometimes I end up not sewing for an hour because I can't decide what to work on first.

Plan my blog. I used to be a good blogger. {Good is relative here since none of you are beating me up... I'm just beating myself up.} I want to get back on a regular schedule of posts that are a bit more planned out vs. the "oh man I haven't blogged in a few days what am I going to write??" moments.

Plan to have free time. I can often become a workaholic and spend what should be my free time doing work. Life is short & I need to start spending more of it just living.

Plan by writing things down. I often get random bursts of big ideas & somehow don't write them down, or write them somewhere and forget where that is. I'm in the midst of planning a new system for myself to keep track of my ideas.

So I want to know your thoughts.

Have you ever picked a word of the year?

Did you pick one this year? If so what is it?

Have any planning tips for me?

My Tablet Keeper!

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

disclosure: this is a sponsored blog tour by Clover & Nancy Zieman

Welcome! Today is my day to post about the new Tablet Keeper I just made! If this is your first time visiting you can learn about me, check out my patterns, my free tutorials and you can subscribe to my blog over in the right column to stay in touch! --->

I met Nancy at the last Quilt Market and got to check out her new Tablet Keeper template. I don't use templates very often but I thought this was kinda cool. It will make keepers for E-tablets or Paper Pads in three sizes. I made the smallest paper keeper & plan on making one for my iPad next!

Here she is!!

Fabric pile #1... aka scraps from my new quilt won!

Outer fabric is Prince Charming by Tula Pink

Binding & Closure flap is Outfoxed by Lizzy House

Here is the inside during construction. In addition to the three fabrics I started with I decided to add a few more including a fussy cut section of Tula Pink's frogs. I just love them.

Inner fabrics are Prince Charming by Tula Pink

Closure flap is Outfoxed by Lizzy House

Corner pocket is Half Moon Modern by Moda

I followed Joan's instructions and added a pen/pencil pocket. Before binding I did a test fit of my pad & pencil.

I added the binding and used my clover wonder clips to hold it in place.
Note: The instructions tell you to add the plastic shape keepers before binding since you are closing up where they go. I found that it was easier to add the left/bottom/right sides of binding before putting the shape keepers in and adding them at the last possible point before binding the top. Also it is impossible to finish the binding how I usually do since the tablet doesn't bend like a quilt does. So if you make a tablet keeper follow the included directions for hiding the raw edges of the binding. Lastly you can sew the binding all by machine, but of course I did it by hand since I prefer the look.

The back before the binding was finished.

All done! I got a pad of graph paper from staples so that I can use my tablet keeper to sketch out new quilt ideas. This way I can keep notes & ideas together in one neat place.

Closeup on my prince charming.

I'm very happy with how this came out & look forward to making more!

Also Nancy has a big giveaway going on right now for a tablet keeper & all the notions you need to make one. Check it out and be sure to enter!

Be sure to check out the other stops on the blog tour to see all the different options!

Here is the full schedule!

January 3 Nancy Zieman

January 4 Amy Ellis

January 6 Vicki Christensen

January 9 Joan Hawley

January 10 Pat Sloan

January 11 Eileen Roche

January 12 Liz Hicks

January 13 Fran Ortmeyer

January 16 Ilene Miller

January 17 Julie Herman {here!}

January 19 Natalia Bonner

January 20 Frieda Anderson

January 23 Cindy Cloward

January 24 Beckie Hansen

January 25 Amy Webb

January 26 Allie Robertson

January 27 Mary Mulari

January 30 Laura Wasilowski

January 31 Carol Porter

Clover Needlecraft provided the Tablet Keeper template set, and most of the notions for this project. The fabric was all purchased from Sew Modern in Los Angeles. The pad & pencil came from Staples.

Come What May quilt top done!

2012-01-16T08:40:00.000-08:00

Last night I finished my quilt top! I was so excited that I had to do a quick test fit on my bed even though it isn't quilted yet! I posted this photo via instagram to twitter & facebook and was shocked at the number of likes and comments it got last night on facebook. {thank you!}

Quilt Pattern is Come What May

Pillow Pattern is Jawbreaker

Now it's time to make a backing for this & get it sent off to Angela so she can work her magic!

I also finished my tablet keeper yesterday... so come back tomorrow to see which fabric I used!

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

A quilt for myself

2012-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not I've never made a quilt for my own bed. In fact I've never started off making anything for myself that is larger than a wall quilt. Kinda silly I know!

This fact came up in conversation last weekend while I was teaching at Sew Modern. I was teaching Fast Forward & discussed with my students how I was considering making a giant Fast Forward for my bed. My plan was to use Prince Charming and create something similar to the quilt that Becky made.

I started pulling fabrics and quickly realized with my schedule chances were I'd never finish a Queen/King fast forward. At this point there was no turning back since the excitement of making a quilt for myself had already hit me. It didn't take long for me to connect the dots & realize that Come What May was the perfect pattern. It has big blocks which are not only fast but great for featuring big prints.

Here is a peek at my Come What May quilt. It is so big that it is currently taking up the entire floor of my studio and it was impossible to get all of it photographed at once. Once I get all the blocks pieced together I'll take it outside for more photos.
I gotta tell you that I love this quilt. I still love the original one too... but this one is quickly becoming my favorite quilt I've ever made.

Fabrics4 prints from Prince Charming by Tula Pink1 print from 1001 Peeps by Lizzy House2 prints from Outfoxed by Lizzy House1 print from Half Moon Modern by Moda
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FYI... for those of you who have been wondering...
Come What May, Radio Way & Jawbreaker are all now available!!
They have all been shipped to distributors and shops over the last few weeks. If you are interested you can find a list of shops that carry my patterns here.

{Biscuit will be available soon. Nobody here to blame for this delay but myself... releasing patterns so soon after moving probably wasn't the best idea. I'll let you know as soon as they arrive from the printer.}

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Tablet Keeper Blog Tour

2012-01-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

I wanted to let you know about a Blog Tour going on now. The Tablet Keeper blog tour featuring the template set designed by Nancy Zieman.

My day is coming up next week & I need your help to pick which fabrics I should use to make my keeper!

Choice #1 is a bright & fun mix of fabrics.
Prince Charming by Tula Pink
Outfoxed by Lizzy House
Half Moon Modern by Moda

Choice #2 is a bunch of Cat in the Hat fabrics.

Choice #3 is an assortment of Art Gallery fabrics I have just been staring at since market. {Sometimes fabrics are just too yummy to cut!}

So what do you think I should use? Let me know in the comments section and come back next week to see the result!

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Today's post is by is Joan Hawley of Lazy Girl Designs & she has some great tips on how to make some modifications like adding a pen pocket.

Here is the full schedule!
January 3 Nancy Zieman
January 4 Amy Ellis
January 6 Vicki Christensen
January 9 Joan Hawley
January 10 Pat Sloan
January 11 Eileen Roche
January 12 Liz Hicks
January 13 Fran Ortmeyer
January 16 Ilene Miller
January 17 Julie Herman {see you back here!}
January 19 Natalia Bonner
January 20 Frieda Anderson
January 23 Cindy Cloward
January 24 Beckie Hansen
January 25 Amy Webb
January 26 Allie Robertson
January 27 Mary Mulari
January 30 Laura Wasilowski
January 31 Carol Porter

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Laminated Fabric Placemats Tutorial

2012-01-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

When Elijah & Aliyah were visiting recently I was reminded of why my mom has plastic placemats when we were kids. Kids aren't usually the neatest at the kitchen table! So I decided to use some of Ann Kelle's new laminated prints to make easy to wipe down placemats for the kids.

Fabric DetailsZoologie & Remix Slicker prints designed by Ann Kelle for Robert Kaufman. These fabrics should be hitting quilt shops this March. They are 55" wide which makes them ideal for larger crafts, tablecloths & so much more.
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*General tips for sewing with laminated cotton fabrics*

1. Use a walking foot. Many people will suggest you use a teflon foot but I don't own one & have had success using my walking foot.

2. Be careful using pins. Pins will leave permanent holes in laminates. Use pins only in the seam allowance or use clips like I do below.

3. Do not put your iron directly on the laminated side of the fabric or you'll have quite a mess. You can press laminates cottons but you need to use a pressing cloth.

4. If you are new to sewing with laminated cotton fabrics I highly suggest reading this post by Kathy Mack over at Pink Chalk Studios. Kathy goes over the basics, ironing, washing and sewing tips.

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Ok ready to make some placemats?
Supplies- Laminated Cotton fabrics - 2 Rectangles 19" x 13"- A 19" x 13" piece of low loft cotton batting- Clover Wonder Clips {or similar clips that won't make permanent marks- A small plate or another round object that is around 5" to 6" in diameter
1. Use a small plate or another round object to create the round corners. Place the plate on each corner and trace around the one edge with a pencil. Repeat for all four corners on each piece of fabric & cut with scissors. {Leave the batting as a rectangle for now.}

2. Layer the pieces. Start with the batting & then place both pieces of fabric right sides together.

3. Use the wonder clips to hold all three layers together. If you are using pins make sure that they are close to the edge in the seam allowance.

4. Use a walking foot and sew around the placemat with a 1/2" seam allowance. Leave a 5" to 6" opening on one side so that you can turn the placemat right side out.

5. This is what the corners should look like.

6. Trim the excess batting and some of the fabric off at each corner. Trim so that you have a scant 1/4" seam at the corners.

7. Turn the placemat right side out. Use a pressing cloth to press it. Often the seams will not lay as flat as with regular fabric even after pressing.

8. A pressed placemat.

9. Use clips to hold the fabric together where the opening is. Start at the opening and top-stitch around the placemat with an 1/8" from the edge. You'll sew the opening closed at the same time.

10. It's that easy! One of the best parts is that these are also reversible.

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Here are the wonder clips in action when I was making a bag from laminated fabrics. The clips were great for holding all of the layers together.

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Want to link to this tutorial?

Here is a button you can use.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! You can find all of my tutorials here.Also if you make these placemats please add a photo to the flickr group so we can all see.
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pdf version of this tutorial will be posted soon!
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© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

My last few days in photographs

2012-01-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

In December I damaged my phone & as a result I'm now a proud owner of the iPhone 4S. My main computer is a mac... I love my iPad... so the transition hasn't been hard at all. One of my favorite things about the phone is the number of photo apps.

I was immediately hooked on Instagram. The square photos mixed with the easy filters makes it a fun free app. The second photo app I've been playing with lately is 360 Panorama by Occipital. It costs a dollar and is worth every penny. My brother has been in love with this app for a while which is why I knew it was a worthy download.

As you all probably know pre-move I usually blogged 95% quilting and 5% life... but that post-move I've been sharing a bit more of my life.

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For Hanukkah some of my cousins came to visit. It was great to have a bunch of my extended family together for good food & good fun. Here we are all on the stairs for the required family photo.

The Fischer Family Kids.

Top left is Andrea & Sage

Bottom left is Cory & Eli

Top right is Brad, Karin & Aliyah

and Elijah was hanging out with me.

Elijah was having fun with his remote control helicopters.

Latkes being cooked! Cory & Eli are so good in the kitchen!!

Elijah & Aliyah opening more presents.

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For NYE I headed to Arizona with a bunch of friends. We flew from SD to Phoenix & then drove to Flagstaff to meet up with more friends. Those who know me well know that I'm not the best traveler... especially in car rides... so day #1 was less than exciting. Nevertheless I'm glad I made the trip. NYE & I don't have the best history and this year was much better than the last bunch.

The views were amazing despite the cold.{Seriously I thought i moved away from snow!?!}

Dinner in Flagstaff

{& yes for all you nosy people asking questions on my legoland post... this would be my special someone. it isn't like me to get all personal on my blog so i'll share as little or as much as i feel on any given day. all you need to know is that i'm happy. really happy as rachel would say.}

We walked around town a bit and I got to walk along the actual Route 66. Instead of purchasing a useless mug or magnet... I bought jelly beans. Go figure.

We caught a beautiful sunset.

Here was my first 360 photo.

... and just a few minutes later the sun was almost gone.

In between lots of eating and game playing I made some progress on a new little hexagon project. I'm planning to make a doll quilt for Aliyah.

We discovered a lake on one of our walks.

Before leaving town I got to visit the new Rita's in Phoenix. It was a big highlight of my trip and I felt for just a minute like I was back in Philly.

We did go to the airport Monday night... and got on a plane... but right before takeoff it was determined there would be too much fog in San Diego to land so we were asked to get off the plane. {Note: it was a mess and while some of the employees from Southwest handled it well some handled it very poorly and they will be getting a phone call from me. I understand we can't control mother nature, but we can all do our best to be polite & understanding adults.}

We tried to get on a flight to LA but all of the flights were full and we realized we'd have to stay in Phoenix for the night. I have to thank the amazing staff at the Holiday Inn by the airport in Phoenix. They really know how to take care of people. From the shuttle, to the desk staff to the bartender & the restaurant.

Lucky for me I travel with a quilt & a pillow.

Our pizza that arrived just before 1am.

It was heaven.

Between my actual birthday, Hanukkah & new years.... December seems to have flown by. I usually dread January but I'm actually looking forward to it this year.

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oh and just a quick reminder.I'm teaching twice in January! If you are in the SoCal area come join in on the fun.

When: Saturday, January 7th, 10:30-5:30
What: Fast Forward
Where: Sew Modern - Los Angeles, CA

When: Friday, January 20th
What: Firecracker
Where: Quilt in A Day - San Marcos, CA

...and also planning to attend Road to California one day too.

For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

2011 in numbers.

2011-12-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

2011 in numbers.

16,055 & counting comments
5,291 photographs

170 blog posts

64 projects started
61 projects finished {some started in 2010}
13 new patterns

1 BIG move.

In January I made the pink banner quilt above & photographed it out in the freezing cold. My dad quickly snapped a few photos and in that shirt time my fingers were freezing. In October my brother & I went out for a quilt photo shoot in which I was wearing a tank top and shorts. I miss my friends, I miss the food, but I don't miss the cold!

A year ago I couldn't have guessed that this is where I'd be. 2011 has been a really LONG year. I've grown up a lot & learned a lot about myself in the process. I'm happier than I've been in a really long time and finally feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be. Here is to hoping that 2012 is just as sweet.

edit to answer some of your questions.
1. The large quilt shown above is my pink banner quilt. The pattern is by Vanessa of V&Co and is available here.
2. The left bottom quilt is Come What May, one of my new patterns.
3. The center quilt is Raspberry Dessert, a quilt design I published in a magazine earlier this year. For those of you interested in making it that missed out on the magazine I'm working on making it available in another format. I'll keep you updated on it.
4. The last small quilt on the right is Home at Last my quilt currently featured on the cover of Quilts & More Magazine.

Some assembly required

2011-12-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

The new Koala Sewing Cabinets that I ordered arrived yesterday. They came almost 100% build but had some assembly required for the adjustable and optional shelves. My sister-in-law Karin was hanging out in the studio when I was attaching the shelves and snapped this photo of me. {My right arm is stretched under the shelf screwing it in place!}

This part was a bit easier to attach...

Here they are! We each have a Quilt Pro Plus with the optional outback leaf. In this photo one leaf is up with shelves and the other is down behind the unit.

My machine up & in action. The custom insert hasn't arrived yet so my machine feels like it is just floating there!

Mom's machine safely stored in her cabinet.

So far I'm happy as can be & so is my mom. The quality of the cabinets is top notch. I stole a bit of time away to sew today and loved every minute of it!

© Blog post written by Julie Herman© Photos by Karin Herman & Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Your photos!

2011-12-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things is seeing photos of quilts you have made from my patterns & tutorials. Often I want to make my quilts over & over again but rarely have the time. Seeing your photos in amazing fabric combinations is the best alternative!

If you have a photo to share please add it to the flickr group.

Here are a bunch of the photos from flickr. Check out the group to see more!

Amelie’s Unwind

Cheryl’s Chopsticks

Dooooot’s Chopsticks

Susan’s Hugs & Kisses

Erica’s Hugs & Kisses

RSTinWA’s Hugs & Kisses

Tracy’s Hugs & Kisses

Katy’s Firecracker

Marieke’s Taffy

ElisesGirl’s Taffy

Pam’s Off the Rail

J2BHaines’ Off the Rail #1

J2BHaines’ Off the Rail #2

Becky’s Carnival

Kelly’s Fast Forward

Becky’s Fast Forward

DeeRoo’s Opposites Attract

Studio Update

2011-12-26T11:37:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately I haven't had much time to spend in my studio since I got here. Once my parents arrived we began to focus on common space areas like the dining room, living room, family room... etc. Anyway... I finally took some time to get the studio in order. I'm not done... but I made big progress.

Here she is!

I hung my Jaybird Quilts sign that I had made for market and love the way it looks. I made one valance this morning and hung it up to make sure I liked it before making three. I'm pretty happy with it and plan on making the other two later today. {hopefully!}

This is the left wall. I used the three white bookcases from my studio back home and added the wood piece that used to be in my kitchen. Currently I have many of my pre-cuts stored in it since they are yummy to look at.

This is the right wall. At the moment it is a mess of books, notions and all kinds of things. Mom & I will be sharing this space so we are sorting through our stuff before we rush to buy new storage.

The corner is also a mess... but it won't be for too long.
The really REALLY exciting studio news.... is that tomorrow we have a BIG delivery coming!! After a lot of research, planning & thinking... I decided to order 2 Koala sewing cabinets! Mom and I will each have beautiful new sewing tables to go in our new sewing space! Once they arrive and we are all set up I'll take photos and share!

Not only did I not have much time to organize the studio in the last few weeks... but I hadn't sat at my machine to sew anything in over a month!! eek!! So yesterday... just because I wanted to sew... I made myself a new bag from Robert Kaufman's new laminated fabrics.

Details

Fabric is Robert Kaufman's new laminates. I used Ann Kelle's dot for the handles and Celebrate Seuss for the main part and I love it.

Pattern is a slightly modified version of the Pinafore Bag by Me & My Sister

Started on 12/25/11

Finished on 12/25/11

Sewing gifts for myself

2011-12-24T09:40:00.000-08:00

So I know I shouldn't be buying things for myself this time of year... but earlier this week I splurged a bit!

Yummy new fabric.

I've been a fan of American Jane prints for a long time... so I needed to snag some of the new Pezzy Print basics.

....and this MoMo Jelly Roll was also calling my name.

I almost got another jelly roll... but then decided to splurge and get the fat quarter bundle of Reunion by Sweetwater since I have a special plan for it.

I also got some notions.

More wonder clips {they rock}

New hardware for some bags & things

and some new zipper colors...

...and a few packages of Quilters Hangup. They are ready to go sleeves and they rock. I already used some last night to add sleeves to two projects that I'll show you soon.

I didn't get all these books last week... but they are all recent additions to my quilting library. I have a BIG library of quilting books since you can learn something new from each one. My plan is to share a bit about them with you in January... and maybe do a few giveaways too!

Whether you treat yourself to some new sewing supplies... or someone in your life rocks and bought them for you... I hope you get a few new things from your list this holiday season!

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Happy Hanukkah

2011-12-20T08:19:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year.

I love shopping for my family & friends.

...and wrapping lots of presents.

I'm done shopping & all the presents are wrapped.

I had fun this year and made bows instead of buying them.

I used fabric ribbon & wired ribbon

Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah & I'm excited to start exchanging presents.

If you want to check out a really cool light display...
my brother decked out his house & entered a contest on patch.

Happy Holidays to you & your family!

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

Fighting Childhood Cancer, One Cup at a Time

2011-12-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

note:

I don't really talk about my volunteer work much since I don't do it to get a pat on the back. I'm telling you about this today since it is very close to my heart and an amazing organization.

Alex's Lemonade Stand is Fighting Childhood Cancer, One Cup at a Time

I began working with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation in 2005. Lauren had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and I wanted to do everything I could to raise money for more research. If you don't know about ALSF I encourage you to read about it on their site. In short ALSF was started by Alex Scott when she was just 4 years old. Her first Lemonade Stand raised $2,000. Before she passed away at just 8 years old her stand and stands inspired by hers had raised over 1 Million Dollars. Since then through Lemonade Stands and ALSF events over 45 Million Dollars has been raised for Cancer Research and support of families in treatment. ALSF is an amazing organization & the core is still encouraging children to host their own stands since every dollar counts.

In June of 2005 my sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon, hosted its first Lemonade Stand at Drexel University the day of graduation. The stand was a huge success and the sorority has continued to do it each year.

I worked the stand for some time in the morning, but then had to go change since it was my graduation day! {I made the tablecloth and t-shirts and they still get used too!}

I continued to volunteer in Philadelphia for ALSF over the years. When Elijah was diagnosed it was right before the 2011 Lemon Ball and quite ironic that I had already been raising funds for Childhood Cancer for over 5 years. I was worried with moving that I wouldn't be able to do as much since ALSF started in the Philly area & is much more well known there. I knew I'd also miss the lemon ball which is coming up this January.

I was happy to find out that they have a growing group in California and jumped right in to help.

In October Variety magazine hosted Power of Youth and honored Bailee Madison for her work with ALSF. I spent the day giving out Lemonade and educating people on ALSF.

Bailee is amazingly well spoken for being only 12. Her goal is to raise money & awareness through many ways including raising awareness that Gold is the color for Childhood Cancer Awareness. Did you know that?

Then in November ALSF had a huge event in LA. LA Loves Alex raised over $400,000 this year!! The event had top chefs from all over cooking and sharing their food. Elijah was invited as a Hero Child along with my family. I was at the event volunteering.

Here is a video of Neil Patrick Harris talking about ALSF. Elijah has a prime shot in the video & I can even be spotted in the background.

Here are more photos from LA Loves Alex. {Taken by my entire family.}

One of the food tents.

The stage.

Elijah & I got to meet Jimmy Kimmel. Jimmy was the MC for the event. He is so nice & down to earth!

Alex's parents speaking.

Hero families sat on the steps to the stage. My parents loved spending time with their grandkids.

Neal Patrick Harris speaking

Here is a rare photo of all of us.

My parents with the Lemonade Stand. Just one stand... changed everything.

Elijah was a fan of the Lemonade.

So was Aliyah.

Karin & Brad talking with other families.

Lots of laughs.

and lots of great things for kids.

These kids have Cancer... but they are also still just kids.

Taking a break to spend some time with my family.

...and eat a snack

I don't help at these events to meet celebrities, but sometimes it can be a nice perk when you meet someone who you really enjoy. Harold Perrineau is an amazing actor that has been in too many things to count. He was Mercutio in Romeo & Juliet {my favorite movie} and Michael in Lost {one of my favorite tv shows.}

I also got to chat with Neal Patrick Harris for a bit.

So that brings me to today & why I'm posting this today.Where am I today?I'm headed to LA to again raise money for ALSF.
Today is DreamWorks Animation's annual Holiday Drive. 85 charities were nominated by employees and ALSF was nominated by my brother. It was one of the 10 charities chosen this year. The event typically raises a lot of money and awareness. I'm looking forward to a day of telling people about Alex, Lauren and Elijah. {...and a bonus is that I'll get to have lunch with my brother.}
--
My advice... Pick an organization that means something to you & give your time. If you can give money... even better... but when you can't... you can always give time. I've been giving of my time since I was a little kid and I can't begin to explain how personally rewarding it has always been.

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

My Tula Pink Inspired Room - Part 1

2011-12-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

Wow it was almost a month ago when I said I'd be painting over the weekend. I did start painting that weekend... but the whole project took longer than planned. My room is 100% painted & now I'm working on getting the right layout, furniture and accessories.

So here is a peek at where I'm at...

The paint colors were inspired by Tula Pink's fabric collection Neptune. I took a quilt I made from Neptune with me to Home Depot and picked out a bunch of paint chips until I found the ones I liked best. Most of the room is a pale blue.

The fabric wreath I made from Rachel's tutorial looks perfect by my door. {Thank you rachel for reminding me that I made it... I had yet to unpack it and forgotten!}

My room isn't square and has one corner that bumps out in two directions. I decided to take advantage of this and make the long wall a focal point by painting it dark blue. I didn't paint the wall as dark as the Storm fabric since that paint chip looked almost black. I went a bit lighter and I'm quite happy with the result. This wall is going to have tall white bookcases.

Since the photo above was taken a few days ago I did get one of the tall bookcases built. I love the contrast of the white furniture with the blue paints.

I couldn't decide between two nightstands so I got one of each. This one doesn't have as much storage but I love the open look. {My new mug rug was a present from Susan!}

...and then this one has a bunch of storage. {I changed my mind on which was going where so now I need to flip the door hinges!}

The colors in Prince Charming are brighter and bolder than Neptune. Nevertheless my new Jawbreaker pillow looks great on my bed. {Side note: Jawbreaker & Radio Way just arrived from the printer and are being shipped to shops & distributors today... woo hoo!}

I'm still using my original Neptune quilt as a curtain in one of my windows. It is a bit short but the perfect width for this window. I have a plan for making curtains... that I'll get to eventually. {The tall boxes are the white bookcases still in boxes... gotta love ikea!}

It is no secret to anyone who has been reading my blog that not only am I a big Tula Pink fan, but that specifically Neptune is favorite fabric line... ever. I own more of it than I can keep track and treat it like gold since once it's gone... it's gone.

So when Rachel showed a Neptune sneak peek on her blog a while back... I of course quickly shot her an e-mail to ask what it was... and she wouldn't provide any more info. Fast forward to now... and what she had made was a mini-quilt for me!! She gave me the present at market! {love you rachel... but you knew that!}

My new mini! Made from Neptune and assorted Bella Solids. I think I'm going to add a sleeve and hang it on the wall.

...a detail shot

I also have acquired quite a new other accessories over the year that fit into my Neptune theme. Once I have the rest of the furniture built & room finished I'll show you more photos.

My room has also inspired me to finish my Bee Beautiful quilt from 2010. I have 21 of the 25 blocks I need made already from my bee. The plan is to finish four more blocks and sash the quilt in Kona Crush.

Upcoming Teaching Dates!

2011-12-08T10:38:00.001-08:00

I have a few upcoming teaching dates that I wanted to share with you! I'll be teaching once a month at Quilt in A Day since it is so close. Also I'll be making a special trip up to LA to teach at Sew Modern again.. and visit with the kids!

If you are interested in attending any of the classes please contact the shops directly. {I don't have anything to do with the sign up process.}

Also if you have a request for a specific quilt... or location for me to teach let me know. I can't make any promises... but it helps to know what you would like to see!

When: Saturday, January 7th, 10:30-5:30

What: Fast Forward

Where: Sew Modern - Los Angeles, CA

When: Friday, January 20th

What: Firecracker

Where: Quilt in A Day - San Marcos, CA

When: Friday, February 17th

What: Hugs & Kisses

Where: Quilt in A Day - San Marcos, CA

When: Friday, March 16th

What: Taffy

Where: Quilt in A Day - San Marcos, CA

When: Friday, May 18th

What: Come What May

Where: Quilt in A Day - San Marcos, CA

Legoland with the family

2011-12-06T07:41:00.001-08:00

This past weekend Brad & Karin brought the kids down and we went to Legoland. I've got LOTS of photos to share since it is hard to edit when Elijah & Aliyah are so darn cute. {Proud Aunt over here} It was great to have them stay with us for the weekend... something we never were able to do when we lived across the country.

I went without my camera {which was kinda nice} so most of these photos are from Brad & Karin, with a few IPhone photos thrown in. {My Droid finally was causing me enough headaches to make the switch.}

...as for getting back to blogging about sewing & quilting... yeah I want to do that too. I just need to finish unpacking... and find some time to sew... my machine probably thinks I forgot about it by now.

--

Smile!

Life size lego people in the parking lot

The place was decked out in a winter theme.

Where do you want to go?

It would help if I knew how to read...

Poppop lets go!

one of the many paparazzi like photos by brother took. thanks brad.

mom saying something funny...

not sure what was going on here... but clearly it was brad's fault!

playing

Elijah & Aliyah liked the mini-cities

so did Aliyah

My favorite were the mini scenes from Star Wars

life size Chewbacca

Elijah wasn't so sure about Chewie at first...

But then went for it

lego boats... this would have been a nice relaxing cruise if SOMEONE hadn't decided to play bumper-boats!

up in the air again

practicing really early for her driver's test

Snow in California?

yes... snow...

Aliyah enjoyed the slide...

..and so did Elijah

we match :-)

lego art!

I loved these things... they were like quilts made from legos

What is Poppop doing??

Nap time?

up up and away!

Save the bank!!

hanging out...

Keeping Aliyah from running off was not an easy task!

building mini-figs

why were we the target?

coming down

works well this way too

off to another ride

wee...

leading the train

all giggles

see you later!

ready to go home!

For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

twenty nine

2011-12-01T11:43:00.001-08:00

today is my actual birthday.

{compared to my new birthday}

one more year till 30.

where the heck has the time gone?

it seems like just yesterday i was 5...

The People of Quilt Market

2011-11-29T07:44:00.001-08:00

Yes I'm alive.

I know it isn't like me to go a week without posting...

I still have some major Blogging ADD...

and I did paint... my room is almost done. Once it is I promise to show photos... it looks amazing!

I'm SUPER behind in my Quilt Market Recap posts... so even though this was a month ago... here is a bit more. This post is about the people of Quilt Market. I didn't take many photos this year... but here is what I have.

Jana and Rachel hamming it up with the Fat Quarter Shop crew.

Jessica Levitt signing her new book for me.

{Photo from Angela Walters}

Valori Wells, Me & Susan of The Village Quilter

{Photo from Susan}

Sandy Klop
I love Sandy & her hubby Stan... they are always super sweet.

Hanging out with Katy

Jessica & I went to support Kim at her book signing.

Vanessa & Emily... being silly at the end of the day

and last but not least...
me & my bff
Rachel & I were both at market for a short time... but we made the most of it.
...and I even got a neptune present out of it! {more on that when I show you my room!}

{this photo also shows you a peek at the soon to be released book from none other than miss Tula Pink... eek!

I hope you enjoyed this peek into some of the people of market.

© Blog post written by Julie Herman
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/