Fat Quarter Shop's Jolly Jabber

Designer Tidbits: Minick & Simpson

2012-01-30T17:45:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Polly Minick & Laurie Simpson to the Jolly Jabber. Minick & Simpson’s latest fabric collection is Prairie Paisley II for Moda Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Prairie Paisley II collection?
A: The original Prairie Paisley was one of our favorite and most loved collections. We decided to design with this in mind and we used the exact colorways as was in the first collection, but this time, we searched for different old paisleys. If you have any scraps left over - they will blend perfectly. Not only did we love this, we felt we were listening to and answering all of you as our collectors.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: Well, it would sound very old and contemporary at the same time. It would sound welcoming and familiar. Maybe, La Boheme?

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: Laurie: I would pick 14731-11. It is very much like my favorite fabric from the original collection - large, graphic paisleys with roses against a red background.

Polly: We pretty much like the same things, which is a wonderful help as we work on our collections. The one difference is I usually pick a small print as a favorite and Laurie often leans to a larger scale as her favorite. 14738-15 is mine!

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: That would be Go West.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Our next fabric collection is going to be called Independence Trail. We don't have the strike-offs back yet, but it will be our same Americana with a mid 19th century look.

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: It would have to be both Annie and Gibby - our dogs! Our dogs are our constant companions in our studios each day and are with us through each collection and project - and they are totally loyal - there could be no other.

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: In this house it is the two Harbaugh brothers. Jim coaches the San Francisco 49ers and John coaches the Baltimore Ravens - I am sure Laurie agrees, she actually babysat them! The parents are our dear friends and the coaches are our son's best friends, there is usually one of our sons at each game.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: Isabella Rosselini? No?

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: Ralph Lauren, without question.

Designer Tidbits: Eleanor Grosch

2012-01-29T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Eleanor Grosch to the Jolly Jabber. Eleanor’s latest fabric collection is Imperial Pheasant from Free Spirit Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Imperial Pheasant collection?
A: The inspiration behind the Imperial Pheasant collection was the traditional Chinoiserie style used in European sitting rooms. It was the European interpretation of "the East." The style usually uses beautiful colors, birds, and exotic flowers.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: Definitely my "Chinese Flutes" favorite channel on Pandora! Every time I listen, I'm brought to my "inner spa."

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: I love the lead pattern - the pheasants in the garden. It has the most energy to me, and I like to see the whole scene played out.

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I haven't yet made a project, but I would love to make some grocery bags for my Mom. They would look chic yet be totally practical.

Q: What is your favorite part of working in the fabric industry?
A: I love coming up with an idea and fully developing the scene to then pull from for the coordinating prints. It's a challenge!

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Oooh, yes...I'm pumped about this one! It's called "Serengeti" and it's a modern spin on the safari animal theme.

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing in your house?
A: I love the kitchen floor - we totally gutted the kitchen and got to be really creative with the design. We used CubanTropicalTile.com to get the tiles - they're traditional Cuban tiles made with cement.

Q: Which project stands out in your memory as your all-time favorite?
A: Probably the snowboarding decks I did for Alien Workshop - they just really came together fluidly and I'm still proud of them!

Q: Where do you do your best thinking? Can we see a photo of your studio?
A: My studio varies - I have a laptop, so sometimes I'm in our messy room designated as the studio, but mostly I'm on our couch.

I do my best thinking when I'm doing something physical because my mind then relaxes and I can let the creativity flow. I try to work out a bit every day. It's good to clear your mind.

Q: What is your favorite snack food?
A: My choice is nearly always coffee - I love it. I think I really can't get enough. My favorite is Starbucks Thanksgiving Blend. So good!!

Q: What is your one guilty pleasure in life?
A: A manhattan every evening...

Basics Charity Challenge

2012-01-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

I am so excited because Cara Wilson of Cara Quilts & #talknt is here today to tell you some very touching information about the Basics Charity Challenge. Well, she has a lot to share so I will let her get right to it.

Thank you for having me today Kimberly, and hello Jolly Jabbers!

In our daily lives we have a lot of things we think of as basics.

This morning you brushed your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
You used toilet paper.
Had soap to wash your hands.
Put on some deodorant.
Ran a brush through your hair.
Maybe took a shower with shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a razor.
Put some make-up on.
You were able to put on clean underwear and socks, that no one else has ever worn.
In the kitchen did you grab some paper towels to clean up a little spill?
At some point during the day you probably grabbed a coffee or tea.
Used some tissue to blow your nose. Maybe sanitized your hands after.

I could go on but you probably have the point by now. We have a LOT of things that we consider basics.

Last year I started the Basics Charity Challenge, and you can read about how it all started in here.

We had a wonderful response, both from those we reached out to for prize donations and all the people willing to donate basics to their local shelters.

After receiving an email from a wonderful woman who wanted to let me know she had continued to pick up extra basics when they were on sale and every month dropped off a care package at her local shelter, I was moved to issue the Challenge once more.

In each of our communities there are places that people don’t have the very basic things we all take for granted. Shelters- for abused women/children, homeless, men’s missions, - exist in virtual every community. They are a necessary safety net for people in our communities who for an array of reasons need help. But these shelters are almost always in need of the basic items. Many of the people have had to leave everything behind, or don’t have anything to begin with.

Last year I received many emails from people telling me how either they or someone they know had had to use a shelter, and how much these very basic items can mean. If you are lucky enough to never had need of a shelter, are protected and loved by your spouse, been supported by family and friends, give thanks by helping those who aren’t.

The Challenge is this:

Go drive past your nearest shelter for abused women/children or the homeless.
See if there is a sign, if not call. Ask what they need. Check online, they probably have a website and most have a list of what is needed at that particular time.

Next time you are at the store pick up a few of the items for the list. Take a picture of the items and then go drop them off at the shelter or drop off point.

Add your picture to our Flickr group, and then leave a comment on my blog post telling us you have.

If your community doesn’t have a shelter, or its location is confidential and there is no drop off point for donations, you can donate through the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Or in Canada the United Way provides funds to many shelters. If you are international there is the Red Cross.

Again, leave a comment stating you have donated.

Each comment will be entered to win one of the many fantastic prizes from our sponsors as a thank you for reaching out and helping those in need. Winners will be drawn on February 29th on my blog.

Spread the word, blog, tweet, facebook, tell your guild, email your friends. Let’s see how many people we can get to help out their community. The best way to solve a problem is to be involved.

Best Wishes,
Cara

3 for Me: Debbie Taylor

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hooray! It's Friday and the Color Mania continues! We hope it's been a great week for you and that you're ready for the weekend...and for a quick dose of turquoise! Please join me in welcoming back Debbie Taylor as she shares her favorite color with us:

"What’s not to love about the color turquoise? It reminds me of Robin’s eggs, Easter eggs, and the Caribbean! The turquoise in Me and My Sister’s newest collection called “Twirl” is one of my favorites! I especially like the twirling ribbon pattern! It’s the promise that Spring is on its way and time to get sewing again!"

Debbie's 3:

1. Twirl Twirling Turquoise Twirly Dots SKU# 22174-16

2. Twirl Twirling Turquoise Mini Twirls SKU# 22172-39

3. Twirl Twirling Turquoise Ribbon Stripe SKU# 22175-16

Designer Tidbits: Patty Sloniger

2012-01-26T15:19:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Patty Sloniger to the Jolly Jabber. Patty’s latest fabric collection is Backyard Baby from Michael Miller Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Backyard Baby collection?
A: My inspiration was my own amazing childhood growing up with an older brother and lots of neighborhoods kids. We didn't spend much time playing video games (Atari back then) and watching tv, we spent most of it outdoors, exploring the wonders of nature or just running around, playing tag and catching fireflies.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: A sunshiny, happy collection of carefree songs, probably something like:
1. "Don't Worry, Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin
2. "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves
3. "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
4. "I Can See Clearly Now" by Johnny Nash
5. "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I'm just starting to quilt, so baby quilts are the perfect size project for my limited skills. This one is my favorite so far.

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: That's easy... fresh mowed grass, I still love that smell to this day.

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: The dog in the striped shirt!

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: Probably Benedict Cumberbatch, I think he does an amazing job portraying a modern day Sherlock Holmes in the BBC's Masterpiece Mystery.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: Haha, maybe Renee Zellweger? She's played some quirky characters; I think she'd do the job pretty well!

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: Tula Pink, she has the most fantastic color palettes and such an imagination!

It's Sew Emma Spotlight: Gumdrop Garden

2012-01-25T17:00:00.003-06:00

Hi Jolly Jabbers,

Let me just start by saying that I am a Patty Young fan! I first met Patty and her husband, Jon, at a Michael Miller dinner at Quilt Market. Through conversation I found out that they lived in Bloomington, Illinois, which just happens to have been the town my husband grew up in, and we still have lots of family there. So we had lots to talk about and on our very next visit to the Midwest Patty and I met for coffee!

When Patty’s new line from Michael Miller was presented to us, I fell in love with it. The colors are bright and cheery and I loved the names of the different patterns; flower shop, vintage dainties, twirling blossom, sculpted garden and modern lotus just to name a few. I knew immediately that I had a pattern designed in my head for this fabric. I could hardly wait to get a piece of graph paper in my hands and start to draw.

My favorite pattern is the Modern Lotus colorways! I had to use them as the centers of the larger squares! I tried to use as many of the different patterns and colors as possible. Jocelyn Ueng, our It’s Sew Emma Design Manager, drew up my design in Illustrator and we went to work “coloring” it! Next, the fabric arrived for the quilt sample and I spent the next weekend putting the quilt top together. I sent a picture off to Patty to see if she approved and she LOVED it and asked if she could display it in her booth at Fall Quilt Market.

The Australian distributor of Michael Miller fabrics then saw the quilt in Patty’s booth and asked her if he could take it back to Australia with him for the Australian Quilt Market! I thought, 'what, my quilt is going to Australia without me?' I really thought I should accompany it, but that didn’t happen! Later, I called to see if Patty had received it back yet, and she said, "well no, your quilt is in Europe now!" What? How exciting, except my quilt is having more fun than me!

I hope everyone around the world that has seen it loves it as much as we do! It is the kind of quilt you will want to be working on now during the dreary days of winter with the hope of spring to be here soon!

I hope you enjoy this pattern or quilt kit as much as I do! If you are a shop owner and want to distribute this pattern, it is available at Checkers & United Notions as IES-121.

Winner: Amy Ellis' Blogger Choice Fat Quarter Bundle

2012-01-25T15:53:00.001-06:00

Last week all-star Amy Ellis came to visit the Jolly Jabber presenting her Blogger's Choice Fat Quarter Bundle.

At the end you had a chance to show us how well you know Amy by guessing which word of each set she likes better.

1. jelly roll or layer cake
2. planned or scrappy
3. prints or solids

Today we get to find out who knows Amy best and what exactly her choices would be. So without futher adieu the winner is...

Heather

"Layer cake

Planned

Prints"

To all of you who picked "solids", Amy Ellis said she does love solids, but can't do without prints!

Congratulations Heather! To claim your prize e-mail stephanie[at]fatquartershop[dot]com with your full shipping address.
Happy Giveaway Day!

Designer Tidbits: Kate Spain

2012-01-23T17:39:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Kate Spain to the Jolly Jabber. Kate’s latest fabric collection is Good Fortune for Moda Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Good Fortune collection?
A: These two pictures really capture the essence of this collection. I took them at the Portland Japanese Garden on a trip with my husband.

This picture is from my sketchbook where I started to explore some stylized floral motifs.

The idea for Good Fortune actually came to be while I was still working on Terrain. There was one pattern I had been working on (called Pond Garden inspired largely from the first photo above) and I got to a certain point and felt that it didn't really fit with the rest of the collection. Instead I began to see how it could become the core for a whole new collection. To me, it had a distinctly Asian feeling, so I went with it! I started to look at and visit Asian gardens and was inspired by their aesthetics that combine a balance of structure and fluidity. I tried to incorporate these elements in the patterns I designed.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: I pretty much had five CDs playing in an endless loop when I was working on this collection so I picked a few of my favorites:
1. Mr. Blue by Catherine Feeny
2. Pony (It's OK) by Erin McCarley
3. What Would You Rather Do from the September Sessions soundtrack (a film by Jack Johnson)
4. The whole Live Session album by Joshua Radin
5. Bottom of the Barrel by Amos Lee

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: I'd have to say my favorite pattern is Lantern Flower in the colorway Reflection. (sku# 27102-27)

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: So far, I've only made two quilts with Good Fortune and really enjoyed sewing with it. Though they're both very different, I'd have to say my favorite was the one I made for Quilt Market that was hanging in the Moda booth. I wish I could show you more, but it will be appearing in a quilting magazine this spring/summer, (yay!) so here is a little teaser detail:

Three of the prints come in coated cotton and I really look forward to making a new tote bag (to bring to the grocery store)!

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: I'd have to say the flower freesia. It's fresh, spicy and slightly exotic.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Sure! I'm excited to share that I have three new collections with Moda coming out this year. The first is called Serenade and is a fall-themed line that will ship in May. One of the fun features of this collection is that the panel is a ready-to-cut-and-sew pattern for a kitchen apron! It was a designing challenge for me to engineer the panel, but I'm really happy with how it turned out and hope people enjoy a quick, easy and cute sewing project. Here's a peek of a few of the prints:

The other is a Christmas collection called Joy. Here's a sampler-peek of some of the prints:

And again, this group includes another fun panel project! This one is a ready-to-cut-and-sew pattern that will make these two stockings:

As for the third collection...well...it's a little too early to share that one! But certainly you all will be among the first to know. Stay tuned :)

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: For anyone who reads my blog, you know that I already have a mascot! Well, actually two:

Franny & Lou

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: Though he's no longer with us, it would have to be Paul Newman. I really admire celebrities who also dedicate themselves to humanitarian and social causes. In fact, Mr. Newman lived in Westport, CT (the neighboring town to where we live) and thanks to his progressive influence and generous funding our town has a community movie theater that is run by high school students (including kids with disabilities), a local farmer's market, a field-to-table restaurant that supports local farms, and one of 14 "Hole in the Wall" camps for children with serious illnesses. Quite a remarkable legacy.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: Well, before you go and do anything crazy just be sure to ask yourself who would actually want to SEE that movie!!

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: Ack, there are many! But the one I return to over and over is Mother Nature herself.

Sew What you Love Blog Hop + Giveaway

2012-01-21T08:00:00.003-06:00

Tanya Whelan came to visit the Jolly Jabber not too long ago to show off her new collection, Sugar Hill. Well now she is back for a hop, skip and a jump to show off her stunning new book Sew What You Love. Make sure you stay until the end because there is a prize involved!

I just want to thank the Fat Quarter Shop for being a stop on my blog tour for my new book Sew What You Love! They are such an incredible resource for fabrics on the web. As a matter of fact, they have my latest collection, Sugar Hill, which I used for some of the projects in the book, available right now. The book includes 30 projects for bags, home, children’s items (toys, bedding, clothes) and adult clothing.

It also comes with three large pattern sheets in an envelope at the back of the book and a couple of full size templates inside the book. The projects are really simple and will work for sewers at any level. Also included are techniques and tips for sewing with knits, using elastic thread and bag construction. Basically I really wanted to show projects that were simple, pretty, and easily achievable that people would want to use in their everyday life. Decorative and occasional things can be wonderful but I always get a thrill out of actually using the things I make day to day. Hoping all your projects come out perfectly in 2012 everyone.

Happy Sewing!
Tanya Whelan

Now it's time for a giveaway. We are giving away one copy of Tanya's Sew What You Love book.

To enter, comment on this post telling your favorite Sugar Hill print.

Contest closes Thursday, January 26 at midnight CST.

Good Luck!

3 for Me: Kevin Jolly

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday everyone! Hopefully you are enjoying some beautiful January weather; we are experiencing highs of 79 degrees right now! In the meantime, please join us in welcoming back Kevin Jolly as he shares his favorite color with us:

"What's more exciting than brown tonal fabric, especially in winter? I like browns and these three fabrics are a good trio. Featuring football, winter, and kid friendly robots, this pretty much sums up my life this time of year (and I guess fabric in general covers the work part)."

Kevin's 3:

1. Little Gatherings Walnut Little Leaf SKU# 1045-18

2. Robot Factory Brown Robot Connections SKU# 11533-16

3. Sports Life Brown Sports Texture SKU# 11543-16

It's Sew Emma Spotlight: Garnets and Rubies

2012-01-19T17:23:00.000-06:00

Hi again everyone,

We have another It’s Sew Emma quilt to introduce you to!
For our Garnets and Rubies quilt pattern the design came first. I was doodling and playing with triangles one Saturday morning, and this beauty appeared. I love the simple, contemporary look of the cascading triangles, simple but eye-catching. It needed a strong fabric line to shine, but there was nothing that felt right at the time, so we set it aside.

A few months later, Moda showed us their new Prairie Paisley II collection and we had to find the perfect design since this collection was so awesome. Leafing through sketches, this beauty popped back out, and it was instant love. Surprising, given the more contemporary design and layout, but they are so perfect together. The reds, cream and paisley are lovely, just the right amount of pop and tradition.

Of course, Garnets and Rubies will still look amazing paired with contemporary fabrics or even batiks! Try it with Green Tea Batiks for a soft, spa-retreat feel. Personally I want to make it bed-sized and throw in Secret Garden for myself. :)

Add some Garnets and Rubies to your home today! Shop owners, you can find it at United Notions and Checkers as ISE-112.

Blogger Choice: Amy Ellis

2012-01-18T08:00:00.001-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop and Amy Ellis of Amy's Creative Side have teamed up to present you with a Fat Quarter Shop Exclusive!

Amy has specially selected 12 of her favorite prints along with 3 coordinating solids from our store for this special bundle found only at the Fat Quarter Shop.

Q: What will you be making with your Blogger’s Choice Fat Quarter Bundle?
A: With my Bundle, I hope to make a quilt, or a pile of zip pouches (you can never have enough, right?). I love trying new things with fat quarters, and paper piecing blocks to incorporate into pouches has been a fun and quick project recently!

Q: What quilt project are you currently working on?
A: Currently, I'm working on finishing up a bunch of projects! I have a number of tops that need to be quilted, and put to use. I'm really looking forward to binding them over the next few cold months.

Hot Seat:
1. jelly roll or layer cake
2. planned or scrappy
3. prints or solids

Leave a comment on this post choosing one of each pair you think Amy would have selected. Answer correctly and you will have a chance to win one of her Blogger’s Choice Fat Quarter Bundles.
You have exactly one week from this post till the contest closes.

Good Luck!

Designer Tidbits: Patty Young

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Patty Young to the Jolly Jabber. Patty’s latest fabric collection is Lush from Michael Miller Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Lush collection?
A: My inspirations for Lush were the gorgeous flowers, exotic plants and verdant gardens in the Missouri Botanical Gardens. We visit this beautiful place a couple of times a year and I always draw inspiration from it, but this time, I decided to do a series of colorful floral designs that were drawn directly from the photos I took there.My mood board includes pictures of several of the flowers that ended up taking a major role in the collection, namely, the stargazer lilies, the zinnias and the daffodils.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: I listened to a lot of happy, girlie, indie music while I drew this collection, so I'm sure some of those beats and melodies infused themselves into the designs... they always do! I specifically listened to my favorite English alternative rock band from my college days (early 90's), named ... wait for it ... Lush (surprise, surprise!).

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: The strangest thing is that I'm always drawn to a certain print before it goes on fabric, and once I get the fabric in my hands, my eyes wander and sometimes I end up falling in love with something completely different! Case in point, when I turned in the collection, I was smitten with my Stargazer in Raspberry, but when we got the sample yardage in I just couldn't keep my eyes off the Flower Bed in Grass. In fact, we all loved it so much that we convinced Michael Miller Fabrics to release it in laminated cottons. Note the adorable rain-slicker! Yes, this is a sneak peek of an upcoming MODKID pattern (stay tuned!).

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: It's got to be my Modern Lotus pillow cover! I love how you can use our six coordinating solids for the background of the pillow and then make the applique flower with just tiny scraps of Lush from the studio. We get so many compliments on these pillows!

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: It would definitely be a sweet aroma with a tinge of citrus. I think it would smell just like my favorite perfume, Ange ou Demon Le Secret, by Givenchi. I wear it pretty much every day and I'm sure my whole studio smells like it... haha.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: I just turned in the artwork for my Spring collection last week, so it's still a bit too soon to show. It hasn't even gone through the chopping block yet... LOL! But what I can do, is give you a bit of insider information on things to come in the fabric arena. We are re-releasing Andalucia (my first fabric collection) in February. It has been re-colored in all new fresh and gorgeous colors and I cannot wait to be able to show it off! My Spring Market collection will be Scandinavian-inspired, with a nod to mid-century modern art. This collection speaks to the very core of my design style, so I hope you will love it as much as I do!

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: Well, if I had a mascot it would definitely be a dog, since they are my favorite animals, but more specifically it would be a Weimaraner. We had two of them years ago when we lived in Florida and I still think about them every day. They are kind, loyal, very unusual-looking and absolutely beautiful. If Lush had a mascot it would be the most exotic and colorful bird, the Quetzal, usually found in Central America, where I spent most of my childhood.

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: Steve Jobs, rest in peace, for having a wonderful dream and the passion to make it happen. I wrote a little bit about him here.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: This is a really tough one, but I think I would choose Maria de Medeiros because she is short like me, has long, dark hair and an exotic appearance. She has appeared in two of my favorite movies of all time... Pulp Fiction and Henry and June. Not sure how this would work out, though, since she is 5 years older than me, so by the time they'd make a movie about me, she might be too old to play me! Maybe they'll have to find a new young Latina to play my early years and Maria could play my elderly years. ;)

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: I have always been highly inspired by Scandinavian art, pretty much since childhood, as my parents had a lot of Danish furniture in our home. Lately, I have been deeply immersed in Finnish, Danish and Swedish styles since I've been designing my Spring line, so if I had to pick a favorite designer, I'd pick Maija Isola of Marimekko. I feel her modern design style was way ahead of her time. She was a visionary. I remember Marimekko textiles from my early childhood and was so excited when I saw this fresh and modern style pop back up in stores a few years ago.

Designer Tidbits: Daisy Janie

2012-01-16T15:52:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Jan DiCintio of Daisy Janie to the Jolly Jabber. Jan’s latest fabric collection is Tilly.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Tilly collection?
A: The Tilly Collection is dedicated to and inspired by my Mom because she has always been the wind beneath my wings. In order to capture a place and time that reminded me so much of her nurturing, I took a mental tour of our home in the 1970s and re-interpreted a few things for Tilly: big flowery wallpaper, a sofa with quilted, swooping stems and funny leaves that I would trace with my fingers, a garden trellis that was climbing with roses. I added some modern versions of the harvest palette (green, brown, gold, orange) to keep that 70s vibe.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: Sticking the 1970s theme, the soundtrack would be all disco!
One Way or Another - Blondie
Mamma Mia - Abba
MacArthur Park - Donna Summer
Knock on Wood – Amii Stewart
I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite ?
A: This certainly changes day-to-day because I love them all, but today, my favorite is Mumsy in Dawn. It radiates warmth, sunshine and summer to me ~ and that’s all I’m dreaming about on this very bitter, cold day in January!

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I love this shirred pillow top made with Trellis Dawn and Vinery Dawn. It was my first time working with elastic thread, and I enjoyed making it as much as I enjoy looking at it. A very cool effect!

Q: What is your favorite part of working in the fabric industry?
A: The unending creativity! It never ceases to amaze me what folks come up with regarding fabric design, quilts, quilting and just general making and crafting. I’m inspired by the simple, everyday creations as much as by the artistic, jaw-dropping pieces. I can’t get enough because the possibilities are endless!

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: While I don’t have artwork I can share just yet, I can tell you that it is influenced by the simple beauty I see when I gaze out my studio window, lost in daydreams. One of the designs I will be featuring is a re-introduction of a very popular design that I once digitally printed for my old etsy shop, Boxwood. The initial sketch of this design is shown here.

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing in your house?
A: A tall, textured glass vase that was once my Grandma’s. She had a teak rolltop desk just inside her front door that she used as a hall table, and the vase was always there. It was one of those things that I’d always, always see as a youngster. Once my Grandma passed away, I realized how much I associated that vase with the comfort of being in her home. I’m so glad to see it every day on a table near my own front door.

Q: Which project stands out in your memory as your all-time favorite?
A: Most definitely this elephant costume I made for my son in 1998. It was my first time truly following a pattern and sewing curves! I was so nervous!. I ended up using that same sewing pattern as the basis for a few other costumes for him down the road.

Q: Where do you do your best thinking? Can we see a photo of your studio?
A: I do my best thinking on a long walk – the fresh air and new scenery gets the brain juices flowing!

Q: What is your favorite snack food?
A: Extra-sharp cheddar cheese. This is a food group unto itself as far as I’m concerned!

Q: What is your one guilty pleasure in life?
A: Working out! Seriously. I can’t even begin to describe the amazing things we do there and how freaking fantastic the people are! Nothing typical about it. Like my second family!! Keeps me strong, motivated and confident! Here we are running up a nearby hill in summer heat with weight vests! Booyah!

Designer Tidbits: Emily Herrick

2012-01-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Emily Herrick to the Jolly Jabber. Emily’s latest fabric collection is Hall of Fame from Michael Miller Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Hall of Fame collection?
A: I had a couple of inspirations for this collection. One would be the Norman Rockwell sports prints that used to hang in my boys’ room. I love the colors and the feel of that era. Another inspiration came from old yearbook photos. I could look at those black and white pictures for hours and almost imagine myself there. I wanted a collection that could take you back to yesteryear, yet also be current and modern. I LOVE how this collection embodies both.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: We are the Champions and We will Rock You- Both by Queen. Also Eye of the Tiger - by Survivor. Really, any song that gets you pumped up and ready to go would fit perfectly.

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: Argh! This is always the hardest. I think I’d have to say the Pennants. This was a print I knew very early on that I wanted to design. It came together perfectly. I love it in big pieces- as a border or a back. But I also really like it cut up into small pieced pieces. The angles give it a really cool, modern look. (A close second is the Jersey Numbers!)

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: That would have to be the ‘Pep Rally’ quilt. I love how it all came together and how easy it was. Triangles are NOT hard. :o)

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: Um….locker room!? Ok no, that’s just gross, how about Zest soap. It reminds me of the cleaner scent from locker rooms.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: I don’t think I can show a picture. But let’s just say- if you liked Going Coastal you’re going to LOVE this next one.

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: I have always LOVED elephants. They are my favorite animal. Since I grew up in the Bay Area where the Oakland A’s play, and they have an Elephant as a mascot, I think I’d have to adopt theirs. Green is also my favorite color so that makes it even better!

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: This is a tough one. It’s always changing. I have a not-so-secret crush on Russell Brand. I know, I know, I think it’s because he’s funny and even though he’s on the crude side, the British make it so endearing.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: I had a hard time with this question so I asked my husband for help. He requested Ashley Judd. I have to agree. If you’re going to have someone play you, you want them to make you look good. Hmmmm, I wonder if she knows how to sew? Maybe I can be her stunt double for the quilting shots.

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: I think this one is constantly changing too. I really like Sweetwater. Their prints are perfect for almost any project. Another favorite would have to be David Butler aka Parson Gray. His new collection has caught the attention of many quilters and I’m no exception. I can’t wait to see what's in the future for him.

3 for Me: Kimberly Jolly

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

Woo! Happy Friday everyone! This Friday is extra glorious because we are presenting a brand new 3 for Me theme--Color Mania! That's right! Every week one of our wonderful Fat Quarter Shop team members will be showing you 3 delicious fabrics in their favorite color scheme! This week, join me in welcoming Kimberly Jolly and her favorite color, pink:

"I just really love pink! I feel like it's such a fun and pretty color--perfect for every attitude and vibe, from cute to spunky to elegant to charming to whimsical. I made a pillow out of the butterflies and I absolutely love it! Pink is, quite simply, a wonderful color! And these prints are too cute to pass up!"

Kimberly's 3:

1. It's A Girl Thing Petal Linda Lace SKU# CX5276-PETA-D

2. Urban Zoologie Spring Butterflies SKU# 11503-192

3. Urban Zoologie Pink Tossed Whales SKU# 10347-10

Designer Tidbits: Kathy Davis

2012-01-12T15:09:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Kathy Davis to the Jolly Jabber. Kathy’s latest fabric collection is Sweet Birdie from Free Spirit Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Sweet Birdie collection?
A: I derived Sweet Birdie from a collection of paintings I did called Fantasy Garden. Fantasy Garden evolved after a period of struggle to rediscover my painting flow....I started playing with round shapes which I turned into flowers. I then added birds, bees and butterflies to the playful mix. I featured some Fantasy Garden art on my greeting cards which I design for American Greetings.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: I keep thinking of "Birdsong Radio" and all the cheerful sounds of birds in their natural habitat.

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: My favorite pattern is the big floral print with the bright blue background. It just lifts my spirits!

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: While I can't take credit for it, the stuffed birdhouse pillow (made by Lynne Ferris & Vivian Peritts) turned out so cute!

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: It would smell like Lily of the Valley.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A:

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: My mascot would be a butterfly or a bluebird. My brand promise is to Scatter Joy, and both the butterfly and bluebird seem to do that quite well!

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: Robert Redford. Of course, he's the Brad Pitt or George Clooney of my generation, but even more than that, he is not only accomplished in his own craft of acting, he also is a highly principled person who lives what he stands for. He has founded Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival to encourage and instruct young filmmakers. He fights to protect open space in the west. He also champions the handicrafts of Native Americans and other artisans. His Sundance catalog promotes a high aesthetic, beautiful handcrafts and quality materials. I admire someone who is passionate about their work, their life and the chance to make a difference in the lives of others.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: Meg Ryan. She is down to earth, relatable and attractive without being glamorous. I like her fun and vulnerable spirit.

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: In the fabric world, Amy Butler's work stands out. She has inspired a new generation with her fresh aesthetic.

Winner: Truffula Forest & Lorax Giveaway!

2012-01-12T14:07:00.000-06:00

In last week's post, not only did we introduced you to an It's Sew Emma designer and this adorable Truffula Forest Quilt Pattern, but we also gave a couple lucky people the chance to win these adorable Lorax Fat Quarter Bundles!

Without any further delay, let's just get right to announcing the winners!

One Winner, Two Winner,

Red Bundle, Blue Bundle!

(Winner #1 will receive the red bundle and Winner #2 will receive the blue bundle!)

SassyCathy

Hey Y'all!!! Yay! ALABAMA!

The Trufulla forest is a beautiful place

With colors and threads you can almost taste

You sew and you sew and dare not to waste

Your hoping you'll finish and then get to baste

You'll smile and you'll grin - it'll show on your face

You'll say - I've been "wandering/wondering" in the Trufulla Forest space

I really want to win - you can tell that by readin'

If I do - to the mail box I'll be speadin'

;)

Cathy Byrd

Zoe

The glorious tufts of the truffula trees

Are bending so beautifully in the breeze

Please be sure to give them lots of fresh food and fresh water

So they can be sold by the cartload from the lovely Fat Quarter!

Congratulations to our two lucky winners! To claim your prize, please email Stephanie[at]fatquartershop[dot]com with your full shipping address.

2012 Designer Mystery Block of the Month

2012-01-11T17:19:00.008-06:00

Each January for the past few years has been truly exciting. Of course it's a new year with new beginnings and resolutions-- but we also get to unveil our annual Designer Mystery Block of the Month!

The Designer Mystery club has been Fat Quarter Shop's pride and joy going on five years now. Each year, we invite twelve of our favorite designers to design a block for a spectacular quilt. Each year's quilt has a different theme, and this year we have created a beautiful vintage sampler quilt, which falls perfectly in line with the Vintage Modern fabric line by Bonnie & Camille. This is our best Designer Mystery quilt yet! And it's perfect for quilters of all skill levels, so anyone can accomplish this quilt, whether it is your 4th or 400th quilt.

Our twelve wonderful block designers this year are all Moda fabric designers and they include:

Bonnie & Camille

Me and My Sister Designs

Have we piqued your interest yet? :)
Sign up now!

And don't forget to reserve your finishing kit and backing sets for the quilt! These always sell out fast - last year's finishing kits sold out within the FIRST MONTH of the program.

The 2012 Designer Mystery members will also receive a bonus 2.5” mini charm pack of Vintage Modern! Accessorize your Designer Mystery quilt with an original project!

Do you have questions about the Designer Mystery Club? Ask your questions on our blog, Facebook page, Twitter, or email Kimberly@fatquartershop.com and we will get back to you!

With Love,
The Fat Quarter Shop Team

Designer Tidbits: Rosalie Quinlan

2012-01-10T16:50:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Rosalie Quinlan to the Jolly Jabber. Rosalie’s latest fabric collection is Folk Heart from Lecien Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Folk Heart collection?
A: The inspiration for “Folk Heart”, my third fabric collection for Lecien, comes mainly from vintage Hungarian embroidery. I researched this topic and was greatly inspired by what I found. I played around with some of the motifs I found and used them as a jumping-off point for the collection.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: The gypsy music of Eastern Europe comes to mind… the bright colours of the caravans, the striking tones of scarves and dresses and the exotic culture, which is full of the celebration of life and freedom. Django Reinhardt would have at least one tune on my soundtrack, as would the Gipsy Kings.

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: My favourite SKU is #30394, Colour 20. Candy pink is my all-time favourite colour. Any range I design would be heavy on the pink prints. The delicate white lace-like motif of this print on the candy pink background delights me.

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: My favourite project made from Folk Heart is a bold Dresden plate quilt called “A Day in Dresden”. It is available as a free pattern on Lecien’s website.

Q: What is your favorite part of working in the fabric industry?
A: I have been blessed by the many opportunities I have had to travel and meet fellow fabric designers, store owners and patchwork enthusiasts. I adore working with the folks at Lecien… they really support my vision for each collection and bring my ideas to fruition with superior-quality base cloths and printing techniques.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Although I am unable to give any “sneak peeks” of my next collection at this time, I can let you in on the name… it will be called “Sojourn”. The concept of staying in a different place for a short time is very meaningful to me as I return to my designing life after a time of healing and restoration.

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing in your house?
A: My favourite thing in my house is my vintage pink glass collection. I love attending flea markets to scour for more pink glass.

Q: Which project stands out in your memory as your all-time favorite?
A: My all-time favourite quilt is called “The Joy of Life”. This is the quilt I designed and worked on five years ago while undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Pouring myself into the design and stitching of this project gave me focus and joy, hence the name of the quilt.

Q: Where do you do your best thinking? Can we see a photo of your studio?
A: I live in the foothills of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne, Australia. I have beautiful walking tracks near my home and do my best thinking while walking through the forest. I also like to sit outside in my garden, listening to the birdlife and drinking a cup of tea. Occasionally my studio is tidy enough for a photo. At the moment, this is not the case.

Q: What is your favorite snack food? Can we see a photo of your fridge or pantry?
A: I love macadamia nuts! And NO-ONE sees a photo of my fridge OR pantry… housework is for people who don’t love fabric as much as I do!

Q: What is your one guilty pleasure in life?
A: Just ONE? Okay, then… reading a great book in the bathtub (yes, it does curl the pages!)

Designer Tidbits: Barbara Jones of Quilt Soup

2012-01-09T17:27:00.000-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Barbara Jones to the Jolly Jabber. Barbara’s latest fabric collection is Pajama Party from Henry Glass Fabrics.

Thanks for the opportunity to yak about our fabric! We are always flattered to be invited by the Fat Quarter Shop to do anything!

My inspiration for Pajama Party grew out of a thought to design a flannel fabric line. It gets cold in the winter here and you definitely want to be snuggly warm when you go to bed (and look cute too)! I ended up deciding to do it on cotton because I didn't want anyone to miss the opportunity to work with the collection just because it was flannel. We have some really fun projects in mind for this line including an appliqué quilt and a cute overnight bag. Watch for those at the beginning of the year.

My favorite part of working in our industry is still making the quilts (except for binding!). A close runner-up is designing fabrics. My next fabric line is a Halloween line called Frank-n-Friends.

I had a great time doing the artwork for this one as it has become one of my favorites. The folks at Henry Glass designed a free project using the panel and some of the coordinates in the line.

We have some really fun ideas cooked up for this line.

You were wondering what my favorite thing in my house is. I have recently moved my business and I to a little town in Idaho that is my ancestral home. I inherited my father's little house and am living there now. I have done no decorating or refurbishing yet because I am still mulling it all over. Above the front door, on the inside of the house is a horseshoe that is hung in the "U" shape. My dad used to say that we hang it over the front door like that so our luck won't run out! And, I still feel like I am a pretty lucky girl to have such a fun job!

I would love to show you pictures of my workroom but it is still in chaos and not quite ready for public viewing. I have downsized from a 16' x 30' studio to a single desk that is 4' long! As you can imagine, it’s going to take a little doing to get that worked out.

I do my best thinking when I am in the shower, driving or sleeping! Don't ask me why that happens because I don't know!

I have way more than one guilty pleasure! For right now, let's say it is watching Dancing with the Stars and eating buttered (I mean really buttered) popcorn!

Designer Tidbits: Kim Diehl

2012-01-08T08:00:00.001-06:00

The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Kim Diehl to the Jolly Jabber. Kim’s latest fabric collection is Walk in the Park for Henry Glass Fabrics.

Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Walk in the Park collection?
A: My country-style garden is my biggest inspiration when I design both my fabrics and my quilts, along with things that have a vintage feel to them...I love little sprigs and petals and leaves, and of course, the rich colors that I see in nature, along with the warm patina of cherished antiques. My goal is to use these inspirational ideas in such a way that will make my fabric designs both classic and versatile, as this enables them to be used in many different types of projects.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: I like my collections to be like me -- a little bit traditional, but with a bit of a modern edge. So there would be some Celine Dion, a little Josh Groban, and a sprinkling of Black Eyed Peas and Lady Gaga for good measure.

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: This is such a hard question, because it's almost like picking a favorite child! If someone twisted my arm, I would have to say the blue version of 5746. This print is small enough that it works beautifully when used for smaller scale patchwork, but it's also large enough to make a whole-cloth border sparkle.

Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I'm currently recuperating from surgery, so I've not been able to machine piece for a while...but here's a peek at a sweet little yo-yo project using the Walk in the Park prints that I'm currently hand appliquéing. Love 'em!

Q: If this collection had a scent to it, what would it be?
A: This collection would most definitely smell like all the rich, spicy scents of autumn...cinnamon sticks and pumpkins, garlands of greenery, and juicy red pomegranates.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Since I've been under the weather and on the mend, I've had to hold off on sketching designs for the next collection, but ideas are definitely percolating and dancing around my mind like crazy. I'm sure it will be lots of "blendable" prints that can work well alone or with an existing stash and lots of rich, vivid colors. Just talking about it makes me want to grab my sketch pad!

Q: If you had a mascot, what animal would it be?
A: I actually do have a mascot, three of them in fact. They are my pack of three little dogs, and my 4 lb Yorkie, Cooper, has declared himself the leader...they love to patrol my sewing room while I work, and occasionally they nap on my quilting fabrics until I politely boot them off to do my cutting.

Q: Who is your favorite celebrity?
A: I don't really follow celebrities very much, but I would have to say that I'm a tiny bit smitten with Scotty McCreery from American Idol. He truly is the boy next door, with an amazing voice, and it seems that his parents have raised him to have his feet firmly on the ground.

Q: If we were making a movie about your life, who would you want to play you?
A: Paula Deen, hands down! She is a self-made woman with an infectious laugh, you can't help but like her, and she doesn't take herself too seriously.

Q: Who is your favorite fabric designer not including yourself?
A: Easy question...Jo Morton! I've admired Jo's fabric and quilt designs for years, and I use many of her prints in my quilts because they mingle so well with my own fabrics. I had the chance to meet Jo a few years ago when we taught at a quilting event together, and I was so beside myself with excitement I nearly hyperventilated.

Project QUILTING – It’s Time to Think Outside the Square…Again!

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! I am Kim from Kim's Crafty Apple. I’m so excited to be sharing with you something exciting, fun, and challenging I started a year and a half ago on my blog – Project QUILTING. The third season starts this Sunday, January 8th at Noon! I can’t wait for the fun to begin again.

So, what IS Project QUILTING?
Well, I am a HUGE HUGE HUGE fan of Project Runway. After watching my first few episodes, I wanted to learn how to make clothes. I know how to sew – so why can’t I make clothes? After thinking about it for a bit, I decided I really don’t have time for a new ‘project’ right now so I thought more about the show. What do I really like about it? Is it the fashion? Sure, that’s neat but I’m not really a fashion girl. Is it the people? Of course – I absolutely love Heidi and Tim Gunn. But I think my answer is – it’s the challenge. These people are give a task, a few dollars and little time to complete it and they make the most amazing things! I want to do that! I want a challenge – with some guidelines that I have to work within.

So how can I make this work for my needs? That’s where Project QUILTING comes in!

Here’s the deal. My mother-in-law, Diane, a talented quilter and teacher herself, is going to post a ‘challenge’ every-other Sunday at Noon. You will have one week to complete the challenge and post your pictures to the Project QUILTING flickr site (http://www.flickr.com/groups/1401824@N21/) and tell your story of how you decided to solve the challenge the way you did. If you want to make a video to go with it – that of course is a bonus!

This season, anyone that enters will literally have their name put in a hat to win some spectacular prizes from some amazing sponsors! At the end of the season I’ll take all those names and put them in one big hat and draw one GRAND PRIZE winner! And all you have to do – make a quilt…in one week…every other week…for 12 weeks…easy, right!?

In the first two seasons 190 gorgeous quilts were created. If you add in some pre-season and off-season challenges you can make that number 236. I can’t wait to see how many spectacular pieces are created over these next 12 weeks!

3 for Me: Jocelyn Ueng

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Happy First Friday of the New Year! We hope that 2012 is treating you well so far! Please join me in welcoming Jocelyn Lai, or should we say the new Mrs. Jocelyn Ueng, back to the Jolly Jabber as she catches us up on her 3 for Me --New Year's resolutions style:

"I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions. I like lifelong resolutions better (so I don’t have to keep coming up with new ones each year). However, I ended last year with a major life change, getting married, so that merits a new life goal. Like being the best partner I can be to my husband by being supportive, challenging and encouraging him, and *ahem* learning to be more domestic. I also want to get better at biking so I can join him on rides! Before that though, a temporary goal would be to get our new place in order. It would be nice to see each other without pushing boxes around!"

Jocelyn's 3:

1. Folk Heart Yellow Love Birds SKU# 30391-50

2. Michael Miller Baby Haze Bicycles SKU# CX4892-HAZE-D

3. Daisy Cottage Gray Home Sweet Home SKU# C2751-GRAY

It's Sew Emma Spotlight: Truffula Forest & Lorax Giveaway

2012-01-05T11:49:00.002-06:00

Good morning!
My name is Mette Brown, designer of the Truffula Forest Quilt Pattern. I’ve been sewing since I was old enough to operate my grandmother’s hand-cranked Husqvarna sewing machine, and I began seriously quilting in 1999 (when I met Fat Quarter Shop’s Debbie Taylor). I've done lots of sewing, a little designing, made tons of samples for Fat Quarter Shop and I’ve never met a pattern I couldn't tweak in order to make it my own – except, of course, when I’m testing patterns for FQS!

Last summer, Kimberly invited me to design a quilt pattern for her new endeavor, It’s Sew Emma, using a brand new line of Dr. Seuss fabrics that wouldn’t be available until January, 2012, and I jumped at the chance! I had been messing around with a layered pinwheel star block for a couple of months – these things get stuck in my head and demand to be made – and this was the perfect project. When I received the Lorax fabrics – WOW! Beautiful, super-saturated, bright and crisp colors! I couldn't wait to get started… And can I just say that it’s a little bit intimidating cutting into this fabric? It's SAMPLE yardage which is code for: if you mess up, there isn’t any more!

After carefully making samples with fabric from my stash, figuring amounts, double-checking my math, making another sample and thinking about it overnight, I pulled up my big girl panties and got started. And it’s so much fun to make the first block when it comes out the way you’d imagined, or even better, which was the case with these great fabrics. This pinwheel star begs for a stripe to give it some movement and the Bright Thneed Stripe with the irregular color placement is perfect. And don’t you love the Red Truffula Trees peeking out from behind? I want the Truffula Trees yardage in every color for my stash!

Now if you are looking at this quilt and wondering if you really want to tackle mitered corners, I say go for it! They aren’t hard, the instructions are really good, and it looks awesome when you are finished! But if that doesn’t float your boat, you can just cut straight borders – the quilt police won’t come looking for you, and there’s always plenty of fabric in a Fat Quarter Shop quilt kit to make those little tweaks that sometimes have to be made!

These photos are for mitering inspiration rather than specific instructions!!

And if you are wondering, like I was, what the heck is a Lorax or a Thneed or a Truffula, find a copy of the Dr. Seuss book. It was written in the early 1970s, but it’s still a timely story. I bought a copy to give to my grand-daughter along with this quilt and as soon as she finishes teething on the corners I’ll read it to her!

This is my sweet baby grand-daughter Lizzie and she asked me to mention that she’s made some progress since this photo was taken – she now has some hair and two teeth! This bundle of joy comes to my house every day which has greatly cut into my sewing time but I don’t care!

Truffula Forest was a blast to design and sew, and I sincerely hope you enjoy it too! Happy quilting from Huntsville, Alabama!

Oh wait, one last thing, let's do a giveaway! Kimberly has two Lorax Fat Quarter Bundles she is itching to donate to some of her readers.

To enter leave a comment on this post in a Dr. Suess style poem. You must include the word "Truffula" somehow in the poem.
Good Luck!