Rocknquilts

Drunkard's Path through the Snow!

2013-04-16T14:33:00.003-05:00

A beautiful, gorgeous flannel Drunkard's Path was displayed at last month's quilt guild meeting.

Looks difficult, but it is absolutely simple when using an ironed-flat coffee filter as a stabilizer!

There are no points and no bias-edges to contend with here.

Here's a lovely scrappy version in table runner form!

FREE PDF file supply list to create this Drunkard's Path quilt.

There are sixty-five possibilities for designs from a Drunkard's Path block

These are explained in Pepper Cory's book, "65 Drunkard's Path Quilt Designs"

The price is a very reasonable $10.00 for this edition from Pepper's website. I left the picture sideways on purpose - it looks rather 'drunk' that way - LOL!

Once you learn the basic block, then you can create really beautiful and different designs.

You've heard that a Drunkard's Path block includes curved seams so didn't dare try it?

How about a new technique using coffee filters for stabilizer and no curved seams to stretch out?

Muriel Kissel's method (with a surprise twist) works wonderfully!

You can also try Jenny Doan's new method HERE.

Cut your "path" fabric into 8.5" x 8.5" squares. Buy enough Bunn style coffee filters of one kind to do the entire project. One filter will create four 'paths'. Different brands are in different sizes, so be sure you have enough to be able to finish the entire project.

Iron flat your coffee filters. Center it onto the right side of your fabric square. Sew in a scant 1/4" seam or even an 1/8" using a TINY stitch length (like 1.5) all the way around the circle.

Now cut your 8.5" square into four equal parts!

Iron the pie wedges flat with a dry iron.

Using a wooden turning stick or a new purple "Thang", turn the pie wedges right side out.

Gently tear away or cut away the coffee stabilizer from the back of the pie wedge.

Now place and pin your prepared pie wedge onto your pre-cut square of background fabric, making sure the the corner matches nicely.

Sew down with corners matching, right side up, using your favorite applique stitch.

At this stage, you can either leave the entire 6" x 6" background fabric in tact (for stability), or you may cut away the background fabric that remains behind the pie wedge (if you are using heavy or bulky material, for example).

The example above shows a person who cut the excess away.

Iron your completed 6" x 6" block flat.

Design Wall Challenge:

Make several and then decide what design you'd like to use by searching Google Images or getting ideas from Pepper Cory's book.

Please leave a comment letting me know if you're going to give it a try!

Best Wishes,

April 14, 2013 pictures of my hometown's Main Street:

Great weather for quilting!

Glamping with Dresden Plates

2013-03-26T13:38:00.001-05:00

OK, here we go...I need to know...which fabric would you chose for the binding to this top....???

and this backing fabric...???

Choice #1: brown flower

Choice #2: brown olive

I would like to thank my good friend and quilting buddy Doreen Baros for this beautiful, modern quilt pattern. Please contact her at her website HERE for her pattern:

Quilt by Doreen Baros

All the Best!

Thanks for sharing your opinion!

Glamping is Sew Much Fun!

2013-03-25T18:34:00.000-05:00

What does a girl do with gorgeous "Glamping" fabric designed by Mary Jane Butters? Why, create a gorgeous wall hanging/table topper for her ~~camper~~/glamper, of course!

Can't wait to show you more, but here's what's done sew far...

To create Dresden plates, I used a handy template.

Just in case these are new to you, Here's a great youtube tutorial about how to create Dresden plates.

I used the Cut Around Tool for my center circle - it says "You had me at glamour!" How fun!!

After deciding on my layout (playing with this fabric line is SEW much FUN!!), then I sewed all my Dresden plates together, just like Jenny Doan of the Missouri Star Quilt Company. Here's her great youtube tutorial.

Here's the first one!

Next, I used Steam a Seam 2 and applied a sticky back to my applique, then ironed it onto my 44"x44" whole cloth background.

I've chosen a golden yellow YLI thread in a 30w for the decorative top stitching. I'm considering a chocolate brown for the binding, but you know I'd love your opinion! What would you use??

For now,

All the Best,

Quilting Online with Social Media

2013-03-17T11:13:00.000-05:00

Social Media and Quilting Online

Social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, exchange and comment contents among themselves in virtual communities and networks. It's like having a 24 hour quilt retreat with people all over the world.

Facebook - Connect with friends and family, quilters, pattern and fabric designers, and quilt shops. My favorite feature: Facebook is updated more than any other social media site...this means you are "in the know" about anything you decide to follow. FREE

YouTube - Watch videos about your favorite subjects. Great quilting tutorials from quilting legends like Jenny Doan of the Missouri Star Quilt Company. My favorite feature: if you get stuck on a technique, you can usually find the answer on YouTube. As many of us are hands-on learners, this is excellent! FREE

Pinterest - Find photos and links to crafts ideas and more. Lots of links to free patterns. Create your own 'board' and pin your favorites. My favorite feature: LOTS of inspiration for quilts and other crafts. This is the most addicting website you'll ever visit! FREE

Connectedthreadz - a fairly new universal social network for quilters, fiber artists, shop owners and designers. My favorite feature: post videos, photos and comments all about quilting! FREE

Etsy.com - a wonderful place to support fiber artists and small business. Items range from furniture to antiques to custom quilts. My favorite feature: you can purchase unique, one-of-a-kind items while supporting small businesses. FREE

Websites - a direct link to a website will bring you to exactly what you need. Without a direct link, however, google.com or other search engines can help you search for what you're looking for. FREE

Twitter - people share thoughts and updates in 40 characters or less. My favorite feature: it's fun to follow quilt pattern and fabric designers, especially during Spring and Fall market. FREE

Blogs - wonderful means of staying in touch with all kinds of people who share the same interests - any blogged items can be referred back to again and again and are always there when needed. My favorite feature: free patterns and step-by-step tutorials! FREE

Smart Phone and iPad Apps - new apps seem to come available every day and they can be useful and fun - some of my favorite are the Missouri Star Quilt Company Quilt Tutorials, Quilt Shops, Thread connector, ColorVariations, Jo-Ann Fabrics, BlockFab, QuiltCalc , Keepsake Quilting and more that I'd like to try are:

Quick & Easy Quilt Block Tool

C&T Publishing created this free iPhone app just for quilters. It includes over 100 quilt blocks, and gives you cutting diagrams and patch sizes for multiple sizes of each block. It would also be handy to take along when you shop, to pull up quilt blocks you might want to make and review their structure.

I don't have the app yet, but sizes assume that you will cut patches individually, and not use quick piecing techniques.

The app also works with iPod touch and the iPad.

Judith Baker Montano's Embroidery & Crazy Quilt Stitch Guide

Another iPhone app from C&T Publishing. A free version of the app includes instructions for 10 stitches (right hand and left hand sewing). You can upgrade to the three paid apps from within the free version.

Beginning #1 includes 60 basic embroidery stitches and over 20 minutes of video
Advanced #2 takes you to more advanced stitches and offers another 20 minutes of video
Silk Ribbon #3 includes more than 50 stitches to help you create projects with silk ribbon, and more video

Quilting Calc

Published by Robert Kaufman Fabrics, you can probably guess that this iPhone app helps you work with fabrics. The app includes eight quilt-related calculators: a fabric measurement converter, backing and batting calculator, a piece count calculator, border and binding calculators and more. It has some negative reviews regarding freeze-ups, but there's a new version available. And hey -- the app is free. If it doesn't work for you, delete it.

Quilting Calc is also available for Android cell phones.

Art Quilting Daily

Contemporary quilt lovers should check out this free iPhone app. You'll be able to read the daily blog posts from Quilting Daily, with tips on surface design, wearable arts, crazy quilting, beading, silk ribbon techniques, fabric painting and lots more. This smartphone app also gives you access to over 100 how-to videos.

Quilt Shops

Quilters Club of America helped develop the info contained in this free iPhone app for quilters. Enter a city, state or zip code and search, or let the app do the work to find the shops nearest your current location. Once you find a shop that sounds interesting, you'll be able to pull up more information about it, including its Web site.

The app also has a feedback feature -- report new shops or shops that have closed or changed locations.

The same app is also available for Android cell phones.

Quilts 1700–2010: A close-up, stitch-by-stitch look at British quilting

Here's an interesting iPhone app. It was created for the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and includes 22 quilts that were on display at the museum in 2010. The quilts cover three centures of quiltmaking in Great Britain. ($2.99)

Stitchers Helper

Stitchers Helper is an Android quilting app, but also covers other sewing-related crafts, like knitting, cross stitch and embroidery. It has calculators for figuring yardage, and you can attach images to track the progress of your work. Other calculators help you cut pieces for popular units, such as half-square triangle units and quarter-square triangle units.

*AccuQuilt

This is a free commercial app for the iPhone that allows you to easily shop the AccuQuilt site from your phone, iPod or iPad. AccuQuilt manufactures precision fabric cutters.

I hope you've found this information helpful. Please pass it along to encourage more quilters to get into the world of social quilting!

What are your favorites? Happy St. Patty's Day and All the Best,

National Quilting Day Quilt Show

2013-03-16T16:25:00.001-05:00

What better thing for celebrating National Quilting Day than to spend it at your local quilt show? That's exactly what several friends and family members and I were able to do today, so I'm on blogger to share with you! Hope you enjoy the show!

Here I am with master quilter, nationally known teacher and quilt book author Pat Speth. My DSis in law and her Dsil took Pat's class today (lucky girls!). Her newest book "Nickel Quilts and Borders" is in my hands and you can order your own copy from Pat from her website www.patspeth.com. She was kind enough to take time to autography her book for me and stop for a picture! Her blog is http://www.nickelquilts.wordpress.com complete with step-by-step tutorials.

In other photos you will see nationally recognized quilter and designer Pamela Goecke Dinndorf of Aardvark Quilts with her brand new book called "Colorific" due out in May
(available now for per-order from www.amazon.com) with forward from the world famous Kaffe Fassett.

Mary Ann @ RocknQuilts and Pat Speth 3/16/13

My Dsil Lynn and her Dsil Sharon

Pattern from Pat Speth's new book, Nickel Quilts and Borders!

Quilt designer and author Pamela Goecke-Dinndorf of Aardvark Quilts

Pamela's quilts were displayed for us to enjoy today!

Her new book "Colorific" is coming out in May 2013 and is available now for pre-order at www.amazon.com

Paper-piecing, copper wire and beading made for such a pretty project - great job, Lynn!

Pretty posies

Sharon's pretty table topper has my favorite drink!

The HQ-16 was exciting to try!

Sharon made this beautiful piece with melted crayons and all-white fabric, plus free motion quilting.

"The Luck of the Irish" made by Sharon

Sharon found pretty buttons at Michael's to add sparkle to her project.

Happy National Quilting Day and All the Best!

Getting organized and a new table topper!

2013-03-11T10:20:00.001-05:00

My DH put together my new Suzi Siekick from Arrow Cabinets and it stores way more than I thought it would, plus rolls easily, too!

I also had fun making a cute 33x33" table topper for my little kitchen table this weekend. What have you been doing?

National Quilting Day quilts

2013-03-10T13:23:00.001-05:00

Tips and Men, The Big Finish!

2013-03-07T17:32:00.000-06:00

Tips and Men, The Big Finish!

A very big thank you to all of my followers who chimed in with Tips to help me create a great quilt that my DC loves!

"Baby, it's cold outside!"

Eight hours of hand sewing to complete the binding....

Perfect time of year for this project!

All done!!

80"x90"

Its name?...

"Americana"

On to the next project!

What are you doing for National Quilting Day on March 9th, 2013?

Tips and Men, Part 9

2013-02-28T15:34:00.003-06:00

Tips and Men, Part IX

"Binding and a Finish"

Last time I entered a quilt into a quilt show, the judge advised being sure to "fill" my binding. After researching different types of bindings HERE, I found that leaving a 1/2" of batting and backing to the right of the sewn-on binding strip will give me the binding the adjudicator sought.

Perhaps this quilt would now win?!?

Six Steps to a Perfect Binding Video

National Quilting Day is coming up on March 9th, 2013 and I am going to show this quilt :-) Can't wait!

Attaching the binding with a walking foot

Folding over the binding to the back with 1/2" of material 'filling' the binding

Now time to hand sew with a slip stitch the full length around.

A finished, mitered corner was created by clipping the extra batting and backing off completely at a 45 degree angle so there wouldn't be too much filling.

Now, as tradition dictates, I need to sleep one night under the quilt before giving it to my DC because...

More Tips and Men! Thanks for following along and leaving your helpful hints :-) It's been fun!

Tips and Men, Part 8

2013-02-25T07:34:00.005-06:00

Tips and Men, Part 8

This was one busy weekend for company and for quilting, both! I got to go to two quilt shops with my sis-in-law who is also a quilter, my Mother got to pick out a new used vehicle and the Tips and Men quilt for my cousin is even closer to being finished - all that's left is to hand sew the binding on!!

This is a King-sized quilt - it's a 'whopper' - quite heavy, indeed!

Here's a template I designed and cut out onto lightweight cardboard. The Fons & Porter pencil with white lead and a handy-dandy tape measure round out the goodies.

With an 85" space, I'm creating three template markings per 17".

The midpoint of the template marks the 17" spot.

Here I am at work!

The Brother Nouvelle PQ1500S sails through quilt sandwiches at 1500 stitches per minute.

It sure is fun to use!

Flying star borders

I like this photo-it really shows the border nicely.

Here's a close up of the stitched template. Sinking thread ends kept me busy for about two hours last night, but it was fun to snuggle up under the quilt while working!

Square up the corners and edges to 1".

Attach the binding, leaving a healthy 10" unstitched at each end, plus a 20" opening.

Stop at a 1/4" from the end

sew down

Walking foot

Here's a picture of the quilt that I'd hoped to show off the binding, but it was too difficult to photograph due to its fairly monstrous size - the binding only shows at the very bottom - sorry about that! Once the binding is sewn on, I'll take one last photograph and show you the completed quilt!!

The next quilt has been cut : 10" squares in various 1930s prints featuring kitties. This one's for me :-) My sis-in-law and I found this at one of the two quilt shops we frequented this weekend - it'll make for a good memory to use this quilt!

What are you working on this week?

Who are you sewing/quilting for?

More "Tips and Men" posts:
Part 7

Tips and Men, Part 7

2013-02-21T09:33:00.002-06:00

Tips and Men, Part 7
-almost finished!!

My DH is great with math, so I challenged him early this morning and he was able to explain/show me that:

with a 85" x 14"w border and wanted five large 10" star templates equally along that length, he explained that I'd need to use a 17" middle for each 10" star template. So, it'll go like this:

[1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17" and continually all the way across the 85" border each 17"]
X(this will be the center of each 10"star) From here, I'll mark another 17" 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
X, etc.

Since I wanted five 10" stars along the 85" border, he divided 85" by 5 to come up with 17". (This is the length of my inside border - there are another 2.25" inches on each end. What an incredibly large and heavy quilt this is!

I hope that helps explain it, but you know they say a pictures worth 1,000 words, so here's a pic:

85" long x 14" wide

I'll use Fons & Porter mechanical pencil in white to mark my star-shaped 10" template.

After figuring out exactly where to place the template, it's time to get marking!

I've been scared off from blue wash-out markers, as they can come back in cold weather and that won't work for this neck of the woods!

Marked and sewn! Now, nine more to go...

More "Tips and Men" posts:

Please meet Nouvelle...my new quilting friend...

Brother Nouvelle PQ-1500S and my giant king-sized quilt

It's easy to keep the bobbin thread from being too long

Easy access through the table via a door

Awesome tall shank - very easy to see!

These bobbins go longer than regular bobbins

There are four different feed dog drops - I'm using the third one with the pin tuck.

It's cold here, so I've got to get busy sewing! My cousin's waiting to warm up after sixteen hour days in the North Dakota oil fields!

Now, for my readers and followers:

If you need inspiration to keep yourself busy this winter, please visit www.everythingetsy.com for 101 Winter Projects - all free!

FREE quilt patterns and more

2013-02-20T09:11:00.001-06:00

FREE for my blog followers!

Lemon Squeezy Quilt As You Go pattern

Bears in Bertie's Cabin by Ricky Tims

uses gorgeous Razzle Dazzle thread bobbon-work borders

FREE Log Cabin Traditional Quilt Patterns, too!

I'm working on my King-sized "Tips and Men" quilt and have purchased a NEW MACHINE for the quilting - it's WONDERFUL!!! I can't tell you how great it is for the reasonable price - do yourself a big favor and go into your local Brother dealer and test drive this straight-stitch quilting machine! Brother PQ1500S

Brother PQ 1500S

Basic Featuresback to top

LCD Size (Horizontal x Vertical) inches	No
Stitch Select	Straight stitch only
Lighting	1 Lamp
Number of Needles	1
Needle Threading System	Easy
Thread Tension	Manual
Adjustable Bobbin Winding Speed	Yes
Thread Sensor	No
Automatic Thread Cutter	Yes
Quick-Set™ Bobbin	No (Vertical)
Full USB	No
Computer Connectivity with Update Capability	No
Mouse Capability by USB	No

Sewing Featuresback to top

Bed Area (Depth x Width) inches	11.0 x 23.2 (with table)
Work Space (Height & Width) inches	5.7 x 8.6
Maximum Sewing Speed (Stitches Per Minute)	1,500
Knee Lifter	Yes
Feed Dog	Special to PQ1500S (with Pin-feed)
Back to Beginning Key	No
Standard Presser Feet Included with Machine	7
Built-in Sewing Stitches (Includes Buttonhole Styles)	1 (Straight Stitch Only)
Buttonhole Styles	No
Built-in Sewing Lettering Fonts	No
Stitch Length	7mm
Side Feeding	No
Start/Stop Button	No
Speed Controller	No
Twin Needle Setting Key	No
Needle Position Key (Up/Down)	No
Automatic Height Adjuster™ AHA® Feature	No
Presser Foot Pressure Adjustment	Yes
Presser Foot Leveling	No
Automatic Presser Foot Lifter	No
Pivot Function	No
Drop Feed/Free Motion	Yes (4 Steps)
Free Motion Quilting Foot	No
Built-in Quilting Stitches	No
Included Quilting Feet	Yes
Table	Yes
Specialty Feet Included	Yes (Additional specialty feet may be available. See Optional Accessories)

Carton Contentsback to top

Accessory Storage	No
Carrying Case	Soft cover
Included Accessory Feet	General purpose foot, Rolled hem foot, Adjustable zipper foot, Invisible zipper foot, 1/4" foot, Spring action quiliting foot, Walking foot
Table	Yes
Other Included Accessories	Knee lifter, accessory kit with needle packet, ballpoint needle, spool cap, fabric separator, feed pin, feed pin changer, metal bobbins (5), seam guide, cleaning brush, screwdrivers (2), spool cushion, power cord and Operation Manual
Foot Controller	Yes

Otherback to top

Warranty	2/6/25 year premium warranty. See premium warranty for details.
UPC Code	012502601111
Machine Dimensions (H x W x D)	12.6" x 7.9" x 19.3"
Machine Weight	24.2 lbs
Shipping Dimensions (H x W x D)	15" x 11.8" x 25.2"
Shipping Weight	34.8 lbs
UL/CSA Listed	Yes, 110v
Needle Plate Measurements

Liebster Award!

2013-02-18T22:02:00.002-06:00

Snuggle Up With a Dish from Karma

has nominated me for the

and has eleven questions for me, which I'm happy to answer for her.

1. Biggest quilt inspiration?

My grandfather sewed many quilts and sleeping under them even to this day helps me remember him.

2. Favorite spot to get away?

I love to retreat to my machine after work, wherever it may be set up.

3. Why do you blog?

Blogging has been a blessing - at first, it was a way to keep track of my new hobby of quilting (2009), but now it's a way to share and learn from others.

4. What is one thing from earlier in your life that you wish was still available today?

Richie Rich comic books! I just loved Little Dot and Dollar, his side-kicks.

5. Favorite TV show

Sewing with Nancy on PBS.

6. Favorite place to get fabric?

My local quilt shops :-)

7. What are your thoughts on scraps?

Cut 'em up with my AccuQuilt cutter and make them into usable 2.5" and 5" squares or 2.25" or 2.50" strips. Anything smaller than 2.5" square goes into a bag that I'll use once it fills up to stuff dog beds.

8. Where do most of your quilts end up?

Covering up chilly folks ;-)

9. Favorite time of year?

As a football 'widow', I now love that time of year. The sound of my machine drowns out the games on TV!

10. What are you most proud of in your life?

My marriage to the most wonderful man on the planet! ;-)

11. What kind of quilting helper do you have?

My daughter, son and granddaughter all help me with quilting. My 19 year old helps me select color combinations, my son helps me 'crank' the AccuQuilt Go! Cutter handle and my granddaughter helps me sew straight lines!

The fun parts of the nomination includes

--- Telling 11 things about yourself

--- answer the questions posed to you be the nominator

--- choose other bloggers to nominate (must have under 200 followers)

--- create 11 questions for your nominees

--- once nominated link back to the blogger that nominated you so they can learn more about you.

So, I am nominating a very good quilting buddy of mine, who also has her own etsy shop and has been a tremendous inspiration to me, CeLynn of CeLynn's Sunflower Patch!!

1. What got you started sewing and quilting?

2. How long have you been selling items on etsy?

3. What is the most difficult and challenging quilt you've ever made?

4. Is there anything that you haven't yet tried as far as patterns go, but would like to make one day?

5. Have you ever made a quilt to give away to someone?

6. What do you create besides quilts?

7. What's your favorite color or color scheme?

8. Which do you like best: purses or perfume?

9. What's your favorite brand of sewing machine?

10. Where do you purchase most of your sewing and quilting items?

11. Have you ever purchased something from an etsy shop?

All the Best,

Tips and Men, Part 6

2013-02-18T20:34:00.001-06:00

The king-sized quilt is sandwiched and about 80% quilted! I will need to mark the borders, but it has been very quick so far using a large stipple with variegated thread.

To create the quilt sandwich, I measured the top and then had to purchase 3 more yards of material (for a total of nine) to create the back.

Instead of the floor, this time I utilized the dining room table with all the leaves in it. I began pinning down the center, then switched directions to the left and to the right around the around the table until it was completely pinned. This was much easier than the floor, esp. with my Kwik Klip as assistant. I hope you'll enjoy the YouTube video of how to use this handy-dandy tool. (A grapefruit spoon also works well, though!)

After pinning, I trimmed the edges of the backing and batting to 4" using a

square Omnigrid ruler

I used the Sew Slip to cover my machine's sewing surface and sat up higher with the use of my Gypsy Sit-Upon. This item really helps to keep a person sitting at the right height at the table so that your arms aren't 'flying' while machine quilting.

I picked up a pair of very useful Fons & Porter Machine Quilting Grip Gloves - I can't quilt a large quilt without these babies! Golden yellow are size large, medium is blue, but I wish they had a size small, maybe in red. Whenever I purchase winter gloves, I have to shop in the children's section ;-(

Here's the back! Three pieces of fabrics, 3 yards each, sewn together with a 1/2" seam allowance (I was concerned about strength because all this fabric is quite heavy.)

A close-up of my practice quilt sandwich using 90/14 needle with Sulky variegated thread

The tension on my machine is set to 5.2, but all machines vary. A looser top tension usually helps with free motion, I find.

Tomorrow, I'll mark the borders and create those. The binding is already finished and ready to sew on, so it won't be long now until we see a complete finish!!

What are you working on this week?

All the Best,

I've linked this post up to WIP Wednesday at Freshly Pieced

Fix me! I've got boo-boo's!

2013-02-11T13:33:00.003-06:00

Oh, me, oh, my...what to do thought I.

After sewing seams at under 1/4" and with too long a stitch length,

my beautiful quilt had about 11 seams rip right out.

Not to fear, Iron-On Hem Tape is here!

After sealing all the open seams, it's plain to see that the more the merrier will rule the day with this project:

but when to stop is challenging...

until I get this many:

I'm continuing to add more...updated pic for you soon!

How MANY more and where to place them is the next question...some are other directions because those seams had opened, making it necessary to cover them with the hem tape.

This hem tape is surprisingly 'soft and pliable'.

It is inexpensive.

It bends very easily.

Perhaps this could possibly be a way to add a 'stained glass effect' in a similar way to bias binding tape?

What do you think?

I sure appreciate all of you and taking time to share your views with me - thank you!

Tips and Men, Part 5

2013-02-08T09:02:00.004-06:00

The Saga Continues...

Tips and Men, Part V

The top is complete!

I like the wide borders along the sides.

After laying the top down across our king-sized bed, I realize

that this "queen" is almost a true king!

Next Step:

Cut and Sew the Back (dark blue)

then...comes the FUN part!

Free Motion Quilting!

Thanks to all the practice from SewCalGal's 2012 FMQ Challenge, I'm ready for this.

Batting has been purchased.

80/20 Fairfield.

The template has been drawn and approved.

Tension has been adjusted.

(30w Sulky Blendable in top, 50w Guetterman in bobbin, 90/14 needle, tension setting "1".)

Next Question....how many of these do I put in the wide side borders?

These are 12" square and the border is 14" square, so there's 'wiggle room'.

I need to measure the quilt top now that it's ready...I forgot to do that, silly me :-)

Your advice, please: Would you put them close together or spread apart?

I'm also going to make sure that I put the heart down about 1/2" so that the tops aren't touching the sides of the diamond.

More pics coming soon...the weekend's almost here!!

Tips and Men, free motion quilting sample

2013-02-05T09:42:00.004-06:00

My practice sandwich! I like the variegated Sulky Blendables thread in "Americana". I had to play with the tension aLOT, and brought it down to 1.0 before it looked better. What do you advise?

Previous Tips and Men posts.

Tips and Men, Part 4

2013-02-04T20:44:00.001-06:00

Tips and Men, Part the IVth

The challenge: a quilt top that needs to be larger

Logical choice: add border(s)

1. What color?

2. How big?

I came up with a red, white and blue 3" narrow inner border and a very large 14" Kona Paper Bag solid (thanks to your tip!) outer border.

We can't have all that plain fabric and I've spent the past 24 months practicing free motion quilting with my home sewing machine, sew....

I created two templates for free motion quilting!

I wanted the look of a star, but also a heart to let the recipient know they are special to me :-)

Next step:

Used a piece of left-over 14" border and create a practice quilt sandwich. Go to quilt shop and purchase variegated red, white and blue Sulky Blendables 30w cotton top-stitching thread to amp up

the patriot theme.

The idea for the heart in the center came from Leah Day's FMQ Project

From: rayandjeanne.blogspot.com

(I'll share my own practice piece with you hopefully tomorrow!)

Then...

How many template stars (which are 12x12) to go into the large side borders???

The recipient's birthday is during the seventh month of the year and the twenty-ninth day, so...

three on each side and one square in the middle?

Perhaps an applique of the template smack dab in the middle of the rail fence quilt top?

I'm liking the process of creating my own quilt with your valuable feedback.

I took the quilt top into my local fabric store and the sales clerk gave me the idea to free motion quilt template stars/hearts throughout the entire top instead of just in the borders.

Any thoughts you may have to share with me?

http://lifeinwilliston.com/

All the Best,

P.S. Sneak Preview: This Saturday, I'm starting a two-block Block of the Month at my local quilt shop and will be creating my first on point block quilt. I like that center 'star' and the angle blocks in the bright colors. What do you think of it?

The blocks are created with the "Lazy Angle" ruler.

"Lazy Angle Ruler"

I've never used this ruler before...have you?

quick Valentine's Day table topper

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Guild was this weekend and we got together to do our favorite thing...quilt!
If you haven't joined a guild in your area, I encourage you to do so. Ask for guild information at your local quilt shop or attend events like the National Quilting Day Association on and ask those lovely guys and gals.

Quick Applique Table Topper

Layout for the project was batting on bottom, two pieces of material right side together, on top of the batting.

The morning project was an applique Valentine's Day table topper created with a paper template. We pinned the template down on top of the layered batting and RST fabrics, then sewed 1/4" seam all around, leaving a 4" opening along one side.

Then we removed the pins and gored the four corners and graded the excess batting along the 1/4" seam.

We turned the table topper right sides out, rolled and smoothed out all edges with our fingers, then went to the ironing board to press.

Once the fabric was turned right sides out, we sewed the 4" opening shut with needle and thread.

We then cut out the oval in the center of the paper template and placed the entire template down on top of the finished table topper and pinned the center into place. This will help you place your traced appliques.

The wonder product! Sew Perfect Steam-A-Seam 2 Double-Stick Fusible Web

No Sewing Required Applique Sheets

Sticky on both sides!

Cut templates after you have ironed one side down. This helps to stabilize the material and the edges won't fray. It was easy to cut!

We used the template to mark the center spot.

After setting the appliques in place and taking off the paper backs (which was easy to remove with this product!), we pinned down the appliques, then ironed the them in place.

Then it was time to embellish with stitches of our choice - blanket stitch, feather stitch, satin stitch and zig zag stitches were popular.

A gal with a Pfaff ambition 2.0 was able to utilize a special stitch for a heart stitched border - very cute!

One guild member chose to create her table topper from flannels in beautifully dramatic colors.

This table topper could be used for any holiday and would be great for machine embroidery personalization!
We sure had fun - what are you making for the month of February or for Valentine's Day? I'd love to hear from you!

All the Best,

PS "Tips and Men" post followers: The 'paper bag' fabric has been ordered and borders are being added to the finished rail fence quilt top. More coming soon!

Tips and Men, Part 3

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Tips and Men, part 2

Stage 1: select pattern/size of quilt See This Post Gosh, you all are so helpful! I got

loads of fantastic ideas and by far, pattern #1 was "the" one! NPI

Stage 2: Fabric Selection See This Post

Indigo Junction won!

Thanks for your help!

Stage 3: Choose batting – We chose Fairfield 80/20 cotton/poly batting, low loft

because it has only 3% shrinkage. We also bought other necessities...

Guetterman thread and the backing fabric

The binding fabric - with a little red for a more patriotic feel

Stage 4: I got to SEW
Please let me know what you think by leaving your much-appreciated comment!

10.25" squares

Five rows wide

Eight rows high

It's been sew much FUN sewing with YOU - I appreciate all your tips and advice!

Tip: Here's a fantastic youtube video from Jenny Doan showing the Disppearing Nine Patch that Deborah Mitchell from www.SewRipAndSewAgain.blogspot.com recommended making a quick, very nice-looking quilt from charm squares!

P.S. Here's a little 'secret' I'm going to share with you...

I just opened my very own etsy shop! Please stop by for a sneak peek.

I appreciate your tips and advice greatly - thank you everyone!

Awesome blog about a lady quilter who followed her husband to the Oil Fields of North Dakota: http://lifeinwilliston.com/

All the Best,

Tips and Men, Part 2

2013-01-23T07:17:00.002-06:00

Tips and Men, part 2

Stage 1: select pattern/size of quilt See This Post Gosh, you all are so helpful! I got

loads of fantastic ideas and by far, pattern #1 was "the" one! NPI

Stage 2: Fabric Selection - Here's where we're at!

I had ordered Indigo Crossing from Moda from Green Fairy Quilts a week ago (before this

all began) because they sell jelly rolls –

perfect for the selected “Rail Fence” pattern. To this, I added an eggshell white Moda jelly

roll and here are the results:

Here's the big question: To go with this or to change it? (Remember: I'm in a hurry!

It's -38 Fahrenheit here!)

Stage 3: Choose batting – this my cousin Bill is coming along to help select this very

afternoon!! – here’s the big question: poly, poly/cotton blend, wool, etc.

Which batt would you choose?

P.S. I’ll be machine quilting at home.

Thanks in advance for your advice/tips – they are SEW appreciated!!

Tips and Men original Post HERE.

Awesome lady quilter Rock'n it in the Bakken Oil Fields of North Dakota! http://lifeinwilliston.com/

Tips and Men

2013-01-21T15:44:00.001-06:00

Tip Sheet!

Squares you can cut from a Fat Quarter (18”x22”) fabric rectangle

99 – 2” 30-3.5” 12-5”

56 – 2.5” 20-4” 12-5.5”

42-3” 16-4.5” 9-6” 6-6.5”

Quilting for a Man!

Here's the story: My cousin turned the big "50" and he has requested a 'homey, comfortable quilt to wrap himself in'. Being 5'10", I'm thinking a full or queen-sized. I've been perusing quilt mags all weekend and h ave settled on a couple..., but I've got to ask, what would you suggest? Especially for a guy?? He doesn't mind flowery fabric and doesn't care for 'modern'. He does work in the North Dakota oil fields and lives in a man camp, which isn't as 'scary' as it might sound. They are hard-working men and women who are supporting their families, just like you and I. Being there for months at a time can be challenging, so a homemade quilt from a loved one can really raise the spirits. That's exactly why I'd like to make him something special.

A lady quilter in the Bakken! Here's her website: http://lifeinwilliston.com/

1. Country Lane by Ann Baxter from Simple Quilts & Sewing, pg. 31, Winter #127

This is a rail fence sized 60"x75". I think it'd be easy enough to add a row to make it slightly larger, but there is a handy kit with everything in it for top & binding for $65.95 plus $5.50 shipping from quiltingconnect.com, but I was unsuccessful in locating it online. Perhaps it will be updated after the holiday.

2. Pretty, Simple by Mary Fons, quilty magazine, pg. 75, Jan./Feb. 2013, Issue #3

This is a beginner level quilt, which would make it FAST and I'd like that! It has a nice border to play around with, but it's sized 64x72 (twin) and a larger quilt would be nicer for him. I'm sure a person could figure this all out mathematically, but....I'm not that person :-( I wish there had been size options included. HeyQuilty.com

3. By the Sea by Jenny Doan of the Missouri Star Quilt Co., Quilting Quickly magazine, pg. 19, Premiere Issue featuring free video tutorials for each project! Check their website for their Daily Deals!

This is a cool chevron-inspired quilt made REALLY EASY with 10" square pre-cuts (two Layer Cakes). This would 'fly' together in no time flat, but it's a bit on the modern-side. The size is perfect - 86x98.5" - so no math to mess with! A traditional fabric line would help make it more the recipient's taste, I believe.

www.FonsandPorter.com/ByTheSea There are quilt kits available for this project from MissouriQuiltCo.com

4. Piece Out by Jenny Doan of Missouri Star Quilt Company, Quilting Quickly, Pg. 73
This is a rail fence with a 'square' twist!

4. Garden Path by Pat Sloan from Fons and Porter's Easy Quilts Spring 2013, pg. 39

Absolutely gorgeous, will take more time, but is traditional and comes in THREE sizes! 66x66 square, long twin 66x102, or queen 102x102. I'm thinking Long Twin would be very nice. Available at www.FonsandPorter.com/gardenpathsizes

Ok - here's the deal - which one to make? Will you please assist me in making this choice? Which quilt would you choose and why - OR - do you have another suggestion for a man's quilt? I appreciate your comments and suggestions VERY much!! Thank you!

Tips and Men, Part 2

Tips and Men, Part 3

More "Tips and Men"

Golden Quilter Awards 2013 - nominations being accepted

2013-01-15T20:46:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year! The fourth annual SewCalGal "Golden Quilter Awards". Nominations are currently being accepted for twelve different categories of awards. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 9, 2013. Be sure to pop on over to SewCalGal's website to nominate your favorites and see the previous winners!

Generous Sponsors of the

2013 Golden Quilters Awards

The Fat Quarter Shop, Sew Fun Quilts, Kelly Jackson (I Have A Notion), CT Publishing, Aurifil, Bonnie K. Hunter (Quiltville), Udder Cream , Martingale and Fabrics N Quilts.

Sponsors have generously donated wonderful prizes. And, those that volunteer to be part of the nominating committee will be entered to win prizes in the giveaway party, at the end of this event. For a complete list of prizes, please read the main page for this event which you can find as a tab labeled "Golden Quilter Awards".

Best Wishes!

Congratulations to the Winner!

2013-01-15T14:30:00.004-06:00

Winner chosen for my 1-14-12 blog hop post: http://rocknquilts.blogspot.com/2013/01/what-way-to-start-new-year-off-with.html

WINNER CHOSEN BY RANDOM NUMBER GENERATOR - CONGRATULATIONS TO COMMENT #99 Judy JCnNC from Shade Tree Quilting is the winner of one of her choice of the tea/coffee towel - Please let me know which day of the week you would like!
Judy JCnNC said:I am a follower already - and love your blog. Judy C
How sweet! Thank you all for your kind comments - I have tried to answer all your e-mails directly. The "In Your Words" blog hop is still ongoing. Please check out today's entries for more give-aways and fun:

Today's blogs on the hop are:

Tuesday, January 15

BQuiltin Studio

Hill Valley Quilter

Bumbleberry Stitches

Buzzing and Bumbling

In Stitches and Seams

Englating

Sew Mollie Sue, Quilt Much?

All the Best, Mary Ann @ RocknQuilts

What a way to start the New Year off with a BANG!

2013-01-13T23:00:00.000-06:00

What a way to start the New Year off with a BANG! Linda at Buzzing and Bumbling is cheerleading for Madame Samm at www.sewwequilt.com!! I love both these ladies and am thrilled to participate in their "In Your Words" blog hop. My theme is "Machine Embroidery" ...something new for you? If you are interested or if you've never before thought this was a viable option due to expense, then, this is the post for you!
WINNER CHOSEN BY RANDOM NUMBER GENERATOR - CONGRATULATIONS TO COMMENT #99 Judy JCnNC from Shade Tree Quilting is the winner of one of her choice of the tea/coffee towel - Please let me know which day of the week you would like!
Judy JCnNC said:I am a follower already - and love your blog. Judy C
How sweet! Thank you all for your kind comments - I have tried to answer all your e-mails directly. All the Best, Mary Ann @ RocknQuilts

The 'broken photos' have now been fixed!!

Madame Samm has all photos from each day placed on a Pinterest board HERE

When Linda of Buzzing and Bumbling approached me for this blog hop, she said she would like to feature embroidered words on useful household items. I was right in the middle of a set of tea towels, so without hesitation, I signed up for the blog hop! I hope you'll enjoy my entry...

What could be more inviting than a set of embroidered towels for your kitchen (or a friend's!)?

These did not take long to do. I could embroider one towel in about 25 minutes.

How, you may ask?

With an embroidery machine!

If the costs have scared you away in the past, please read on...things have changed!

Brother has just come out with a 'get your feet wet' embroidery + sewing machine for around $399. It features a 4" x 4" sewing field, which is great for many projects. It comes with seventy built-in designs that are really easy to stitch out, plus more designs to choose from at www.ibroidery.com or a limited edition Simplicity line embroidery machine for around $300 (Please consider purchasing from your local quilt shop so that you will have someone nearby for lessons, supplies and for warranty work.)

Both machines would be perfect for monogramming, enhancing 5x5-8x8 quilt squares, and sew much more...please feast your eyes on the following projects from www.emblibrary.com

You can use designs for quilting a quilt sandwich (limited to your hoop size), making jewelry, lace, Christmas tree ornaments, decorating purses, backpacks, jeans, shirts, making logos, personalizing your work, creating quilt name tags, appliques, in-the-hoop projects that sew themselves, etc.!

Giveaway instructions below...

My most recent project is a set of seven dish towels for my sister-in-law who just moved in to a new house. I'd like to show you how I get a project started:

1. Collect necessary items

Embroidery scissors
Embroidery and bobbin threads
size 80 needle (new is best)
Madeira bobbinfil in white (make up three to four bobbins for the seven towels)
Madeira Rayon embroidery threads (the colors do not wash or bleach out)
Stabilizer: wash-away, tear-away (See Nancy Zieman's book for assistance with stabilizers for embroidery.) Cut all seven at once to save time.
seven flour sack cloth dish towels (bought at the local Dollar Store for only $1 each!)
Days of the Week dish towel designs from www.emblibrary.com in the size that fits your hoop capabilities
laptop or desk computer with flashdrive and internet connection

All embroidery machines can handle this size :-)

2. Hoop stabilizer and dish towel

Wash-away, tear-away stabilizer on bottom, flour sack tea towel on top
with three inches left at the bottom of the hoop for each of the seven towels

3. Transfer design from www.emblibrary.com to flash drive on your computer, then enter into sewing/embroidery machine

flash drive inserted into the USB port of sewing/embroidery machine

Select appropriate design according to your machine's instructional manual

4. Turn the design in the sewing machine before stitching out so that it stitches out in the correct direction.

utilizing my instructional manual, I turn the design to match how my towel is hooped.

5. Stitch out the design - the machine does all the work! My granddaughter loves to do this part :-)

The Pfaff creative performance being used here has pop up display windows showing
which color to switch to and when. Some displays are in black & white only, but still let you know what color changes to make according to the number listed on the spool and thread number charts available from thread companies.

6. Snip jump threads, unhoop, tear away stabilizer from the back and launder.

7. Iron, fold and wrap to present to your lucky recipient!

A magazine that I subscribe to that has loads of helpful tips and information is Creative Machine Embroidery. They also have a free blog! And for my blogging friends and followers, a free, online PDF file entitled "Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid".

Hopefully machine embroidery is something you might try - please let me know with your comment! What questions do you have for me? I'd love to help!

GIVEAWAY!!! Thank you for sticking with my long blog post - as a reward, I would like to offer one embroidered tea towel in the day of the week of your choice. If you love coffee as much as my sister-in-law and I do, you'll want to win one of these!!

Five chances to WIN!

1. Please leave a comment here on this blog stating which type of coffee or espresso you enjoy most.
2. Please visit www.emblibrary.com or and tell me what embroidery design(s) you enjoyed most.
3. Let us know what project you'd enjoy making with an embroidery machine.
4. Leave a question about machine embroidery OR let us know what embroidery machine you own.
5. "Follow" me here at Rock n Quilts or let me know if you are a current follower. Thank you!

(Open to international addresses. Must leave your working e-mail address if you are a no-reply blogger, or a new winner will be chosen. One winner will be chosen at random and notified on Tuesday, January 15th, 2013.)

Please visit all the bloggers participating in the hop today - thank you!

Monday, January 14

Gracie Oliver Arts (Jeanie)

Clothes and Crafts (Maria K.)

Cherrys Prairie Primitives (Cherry E.)

Simple Sew (Shirley T.)

Woolie Mammoth (Anna B.)

RocknQuilts (Mary Ann)

Celynn's Sunflower Patch (Celynn)

A Quilting Sheep (Amy)

Sane and Crazy Quilting (Cathy L.)

Quiltsmiles (Jane E.)

Feathered Nest Studio(Jennet)

For a complete list, click HERE.

P.S. Wouldn't these be cute?