Frozen Knickers

Mini Windows Giveaway Winner

2012-01-31T21:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who commented!!! I really enjoyed reading through each of your comments. Giveaways are SO.MUCH.FUN!!!

Before I announce the winner (I know, I am so mean to keep you in suspense) I am going to share the dimensions for the mini block. There were a couple people who asked so I thought I might as well share it will you all!

1 1/2" printed square
3/4" white
1 1/2" grey
3" template

Assemble as shown in my tutorial here. You end up with a 2 1/2" block. It took me 36 blocks to make this 17" square mini (I added a 1" strip of grey as a border...totally optional!).

On to the winner...

When asked to pick a number 1-95, my husband chose 4.

So, there you have it!

Number four is...

Betty said...

I am so in love with the Moderns Stripes quilt pattern!

January 26, 2012 1:09 AM

Congratulations Betty!!! I love the modern stripes quilt also. It was one of the very first quilts I made. I have been thinking about making another...hopefully soon! :) Email me your mailing address and I will get this right off to you.

Thanks again to everyone! I hope you stick around and experience the ups and downs of my sewing adventures with me!!!

100th Post Giveaway

2012-01-25T23:59:00.002-07:00

***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED***

WELCOME!!! I am so glad you stopped by.

In celebration of FINALLY getting to 100 posts I am giving away this little beauty...

It is the mini version of a quilt I am giving the tutorial for over at CluckCluckSew.

It measures approximately 17" square. The colored fabrics are Bubblegum Basics and the grey is Kona Coal. I double stitched around each block as you can see on the back...

It is a great size to use as a doll quilt, table topper, wall hanging or whatever suits your fancy. :)

To enter a chance to win...
1. For one entry, leave a comment telling me your favorite pattern in my shop. Make sure I have access to your email.
2. For a second entry, blog/facebook/tweet about it. Lets use the honor system here...come back and tell me in a separate comment that you did so.

I will close comments on the evening of Jan 31.

That's it!

Also, go over to CluckCluckSew and get a tutorial on how to make the baby size version of this quilt!

WIP

2012-01-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

This has been keeping me busy! It's a little sneak peak for a tutorial I will be sharing over at Cluck Cluck Sew tomorrow. I am so excited to show you!!! It also has to do with my 100th Post Giveaway...either tomorrow or Friday. Probably tomorrow because I can't wait!!! :)

See you then...

WIP

2012-01-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

I have really been enjoying using these Bubblegum Basics fabrics lately. They have sat on my shelf for quite some time not getting the use they deserve, mostly because I love them and hate to see them used up and gone. When in reality, I am giving them life by using them in a quilt and hopefully the recipient will love them just as much!

Currently...

2012-01-10T23:05:00.001-07:00

We are having computer issues...hopefully fixed soon so I can get back to it. This is being sent from my phone so hopefully it turns out. :)

This is my current project. No real rhyme or reason. Just made a bunch of squares. When I finally counted them up I have enough for two baby quilts. Maybe a twin pair? We'll see.

The question is, do I make two girl quilts or a boy/girl combination. Hmm...?

any time, any where

2011-12-31T08:00:00.003-07:00

Occasionally I get a sudden urge to figure out measurements/fabric requirements for an upcoming quilt. Luckily, this time a pen and paper plate were close at hand.

how to hang a picture

2011-12-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

I have this great big wall in my dining room...I also have fabulous 1970's paneling on every. single. wall. in my house...I know, you are all absolutely jealous. I knew I wanted to hang a bunch of pictures on this wall and that paneling wouldn't hold up with all that weight so my husband and I put up sheetrock. He bought a texture gun from Lowe's (which we will be getting every pennies worth out of throughout our house!) and went at it. I think he did a great job.

Next, I primed and painted. Yes, fabulous looking!

(I found this huge dresser on craigslist...big plans in the works. I love the midcentury vibe!)

I heard about this paper technique for hanging pictures and since I HATE the "trial and error" approach that I usually have I decided this was a much better route to take. It is a little time consumer (but not near as much as I was expecting) up front but I am hoping it pays off big in the end. Basically you just trace each picture frame, number the frame and paper, and tape the paper to the wall how you want the pictures to be. On the back side of the frame, measure the distance from the top where the nail will be. Use that measurement on the paper to accurately place your nail (be sure it is centered).

This is as far as I have gotten. I like to sit and look things over for a couple days. I am definitely not a picture-hanging professional, but I think it looks pretty good. I have debated about frame colors. I want them to coordinate, but not necessarily be all the same. Since this room is somewhat dark I might paint the majority of them white with a few bright colored ones.

Just a little tip, censor what is readable on the papers. I had to flip a couple around so my little children didn't read anything that would give them nightmares.

What do you think? Would you make any changes? What about frame colors?

Giveaway Winners

2011-12-16T22:50:00.000-07:00

The response to this giveaway was awesome! Thanks to everyone who commented. I got some really great ideas and now have a long list of things for me and my kiddos to do.

Now, on to the good stuff...

Winners of the Riley Blake FQ bundles are:

#110 the frog princess said...
When it's well below freezing, go outside and blow bubbles, they freeze and shatter! It's really cool. :)

#21 Oso said...

My daughters love running around the house while singing out of their lungs (they're two years old). Earplugs are very handy for those occasions.
Thanks for the chance to win.

Winners of the FrozenKnickers PDF pattern bundles are:

#397 Stephanie and Carlos said...

Never underestimate the power of coloured ice cubes!!

Cheers Steph

#117 Shelley said...

Making ice lanterns/luminaries! I've seen lots of tutorials on pinterest lately :)

#43 Desi @ Wee Share said...

what a lovely giveaway!!
We just made salt dough ornaments and it was a lot of fun!
Desi

** Because there was such a great response I am going to offer two more pattern bundles:

#373 Robyn said...
Winter is a tough time with the kiddos... we love to sled and make "snow pies" when it's not too cold. And to drive around at night and look at the lights. When we need to get out we go to the rec center and play! Also, playgrounds and snow suits actually go pretty well together!

#321 Zoe said...
Hmm, they might be a bit on the tiny side for ice-skating so I can suggest making your own play-doh, having colouring in competitions, treasure hunts and fort building :)

I will get the patterns email off tonight!

Remember, I will be keeping the coupon SEWMAMA15 open in my shop through Monday, Dec. 19. Just enter the code at checkout.

Also, I am close to my 100th post and I am sure I will find something wonderful, perhaps even handmade, to give away! So stay tuned...

Baby Boy Quilt

2011-12-14T00:05:00.000-07:00

While I was waiting to finish this quilt I started and finished this one. It went together so quickly and I love how it turned out!

I debated putting those empty brown spaces and solid yellow in there, but I am very happy with the results! I love the overall colorful and bright look.

It is made up of Riley Blake, Amy Butler, and Kona solids.

It is a variation of my Off Sides quilt. I narrowed the sashing between each row to 1" finished and omitted the shaft things. Easy peasy! It's up in my shop now.

WIPs Completed!

2011-12-13T23:48:00.000-07:00

It feels good to be finished! Remember this post with the sneak peak? Yah, it's done.

My sis asked if she could use my walking foot last week. I kindly obliged, because that's just how I am... :) ...but only once I was finished with it. Ha!

You see, I had this quilt front that had been hanging up in my room for far too long! I had all the wonderful intentions of finishing it promptly, but then decided I didn't like my idea for the back and so I changed directions; which meant I had to buy more fabric...shucks!

(ignore the mess, bad lighting, and ugly paneling)

I browsed around for a while, because I very rarely pay full price for fabric. I just can't stand paying over $8.00/yard (although on occasion I will if it is something I really, truly, terribly want--oh, sweet KJR, how I love you)!! When I see a fabric I want I shop around online (for way too long) trying to find the "better" price.

So this front hung on my WIP wall for a while. Every time I would walk into my room it would stare me in the face as though it was daring me to finish it. FINALLY, I found the back I wanted (sorry, I can't even remember where I bought if from now...some little online store I had never heard of before--bless their sweet fabric loving hearts for having this fabric!!) for $7.00/yard. I accept!

It was plain, simple, and had the perfect little AJ pindots. I got to work and added a little log cabin block to the back to break up the beautiful sea of blue.

Anyhow, when my sis asked to use the foot I had this all beautifully basted ready to be quilted. By this time I was SO READY to have it done so that I asked her to hold on for a day. And she did, because she is like that... :) ...and because I am bigger and stronger and less pregnant and could totally take her down in a wrestling match.

I quilted it one night and bound it the next. Like I said, it feels good to be done!

I just adore this Pezzy print I used for the binding. I look forward to getting my hands on the new ones!

Here is a closeup of the Log Cabin on the back. This was actually the first one I have ever made. Can you believe that!? Yah, me too. :)

This was put together using American Jane prints from several different lines...recess, peas and carrots, building blocks, and look and learn. I love how they all go together so nicely. It is a lap/throw size quilt based on my Four-Square pattern, just bigger! It's up in my shop now.

Don't forget to enter the Sew Mama Sew giveaway in the next post!

Sew Mama Sew! Giveaway Day

2011-12-12T06:57:00.007-07:00

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED!! Go HERE to see who won.

Welcome all you Sew Mama Sew and crafting fenatics! I am so excited to be part of this Giveaway Day. Such a fun way to discover new-to-me crafting blogs.

I'll keep this short since I know there are HUNDREDS of other blogs you want to get to by Friday.

First, I am giving away two Fat Quarter bundles of these Riley Blake prints...

Second, I am giving away three of my complete PDF Pattern Bundles (includes all my patterns - pictured below are just three of them) from my shop...

To enter this giveaway leave a comment with a fun/creative wintertime activity for my kiddos (ages 2-7).

Leave your comment by December 16 at 5pm PST and make sure I have a way to email you!!! Random.org will be choosing the winner.

And heck, if you visit my shop this week go ahead and take 15% off your purchase using the coupon code SEWMAMA15 at checkout!!

After you have left your comment head back over to Sew Mama Sew! to enter more giveaways!

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you visit again...my 100th post is coming up soon, I might just have to give something else away then!

Thanks and Happy Holidays!!

***ADDED***There have been several NO REPLY comments. PLEASE include your email address if you are a NO REPLY commenter so I can get ahold of you! I would hate for you to not be able to receive the prize if you are chosen because there was no way to get ahold of you! Or, be sure to come back this weekend to see if you won, as I will be posting the winners in a new post (frozenknickers.blogspot.com).

I will be choosing the winners Friday evening after 5pm and emailing them at that time. If I haven't heard back from the fabric winners by 5pm Monday evening I will be choosing new winners.

My giveaway has been getting such great response (THANK YOU!) that I just can't keep up with replying to everyone. Just know that I AM reading every comment. You have given me really great ideas!!

Also, I will be leaving the coupon active in my Etsy shop through Monday.

Apple Apple, Who's Got The Apple?

2011-12-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Someone's been snitching...

I put these beautiful green apples on my buffet to add a splash of color. Apparently they were just too tempting for the little people. Good thing they are real and not styrofoam. :)

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day

2011-12-09T23:56:00.000-07:00

It's that time again...Sew Mama Sew is having their big Giveaway Day (week actually!!!). All the fun starts on Monday, 12 December. Only a couple days from now. Are you participating?

If you have a blog/product and want to give something away go link up on Monday over at Sew Mama Sew. It will be my first time participating and I am excited to be part of it!

Come back on Monday if you would like to see what I will be giving away...

For Christine

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

I made this table topper and placemat set for a friend recently...one of those before-the-baby projects. I used this pattern and Simple Abundance by Moda. I had hoped to do a meandering stipple like in the pattern, but my sewing machine was still having issues so I tried out this lattice sort of look.

Not bad...

For the front of the placemats I used the same design as the back of the table topper.

I REALLY like the close stitching I used for these. Will definitely be quilting like that again!

I decided I REALLY like little projects like this...quick and easy. I'll have to make more!

WIP, American Jane

2011-12-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE these American Jane prints!! I am almost done...can't wait to show you.

For Bella

2011-12-05T08:00:00.003-07:00

Here is another hurry-and-get-it-done-before-baby-arrives project. My oldest sister requested a quilt with brown and pink for her three year-old daughter, Bella. Since I don't have much variety of pink fabrics in my stash I did a little browsing online.

I found a few different options and showed Bella to see what she thought. Without hesitation she chose these fabrics, Sweet Nothings by Riley Blake. I'll be honest, I wasn't too thrilled about these fabrics and so I tried to persuade her to choose differently. I found other fabrics, that I liked but this little girl knew exactly what she wanted because once again, she picked these without looking twice at the others.

Fine! :)

I didn't get around to a photo shoot with decent lighting but I did remember to snap these right after I finished it. A basic checkered look...

She lives on the West Coast so I put this fun yellow fabric on the back to brighten the cloudy days. I think the dots add a sweet feminine touch to the bold yellow color.

Sadie's Quilt

2011-11-30T08:00:00.001-07:00

In an effort to have all my needs-to-be-done-soon projects out of the way before Baby H got here I spend most of my nights sewing for hours. Amazingly enough I was able to get them all done!! WooHoo!

One of the projects was this little number for our new niece Sadie.

I fell in love with these Bubblegum Basics fabrics when I first saw them and still do even though they are a couple years old.

This notebook was my inspiration for the quilt...

I thought about making this quilt with just three colors like the notebook but decided to go with the BB fabrics because they are just so bright and cheery (and because I still have a bunch and need to work through them)!

For the back I inserted a strip of randomly pieced together scraps. I love it.

What I would do differently...stitch all my quilting lines in the same direction. I went back and forth and that created a sort of gathered look that I wish wasn't there. We stitch and learn, right!?

I had originally planned to do a back and forth meandering stitch like I used in this quilt but for some reason my machine kept bunching up the thread in the back. I didn't realize this until I was probably a quarter of the way finished with the quilting. So I spent almost 10 hours unpicking the darn thing. Not sure what the problem was. I tried changing threads and tension but nothing worked. So I switched out my stippling foot for my walking foot and did straight lines.

I think it turned out just fine.

He's here!

2011-11-29T00:24:00.000-07:00

Here it is...the prego picture I promised. Had I given it any forethought I might have done my hair and put on makeup. But seeing as the sun was going down, my husband was coming in from work, and I was 39 weeks pregnant and expecting this little baby ANY DAY!! I figured that moment was as good as any.

I never know how to pose for these pictures. No matter where I place my hands on my bulging belly it always feels awkward. So why not make it look meaningfully awkward, right!? Insert photo of weird-pose-with-hands-on-the-sides...

All my babies have either been early or arrived the day before the due date so going over a whole 3 DAYS was torture! (I know, some go over by a couple weeks--bless your sweet patient souls...and stretching skin!)

But he did, indeed, finally come! Sweet Baby H is the most chill baby I have had yet. He sleeps through four older siblings running/screaming/laughing through the house. I haven't had one do that yet.

He was born just before Thanksgiving so the two of us spend our holiday cuddled up with each other while daddy and the older kiddos spent the day with family and yummy food. Although I love family and yummy food, I would definitely say I got the better end of the deal spending the day with this little dude.

tutorial, quilted halloween table runner

2011-10-24T23:49:00.000-06:00

I know Halloween is only a week away but I wanted to share this quick and simple table topper with you.

Really this design would work for any holiday or everyday table runner. I cut the printed pieces from fat quarters and the white and grey from 44" wide fabric.

For the front you will need...

From each printed fat quarter cut:

1- 2 1/2" x 22" strip

1- 3 1/2" x 22" strip

Of dark border fabric cut:

2- 2 1/2" x 8" strips

3- 2 1/2" x 18" strips

2- 2 1/2" x 22" strips

4- 2 1/2" squares

Of white fabric you will need:

2- 1 1/2" x width of fabric strips

To get started...

Stitch the white fabric to each side of the 2 1/2" grey squares. Press the seams. Then stitch the white fabric to the top and bottom of these same grey squares. Again, press your seams!

I forgot to take a picture of this next step, but stitch a 2 1/2" printed fabric to the right side of your block. Press the seam and cut. Then stitch the remaining part of that printed fabric to the bottom of the block, as shown. Press and trim to give it a clean edge.

Now do the same with the 3 1/2" printed piece to the left side...

and top also. Be sure to press the seams.

At this point I decided to chop my finished block down a little. I cut the sides with the narrower strips down to 2" from the white border.

Using those two sides as a guide I made the block 8" square.

Decide how you want your blocks laid out. Stitch the two 8" grey pieces as shown below. Press your seams.

Next, stitch the three 18" grey strips as shown below, STARTING with the one in the middle! Press your seams and trim the end of the strips.

Finally, stitch on the two 22" grey strips to the top and bottom. Press your seams and trim the ends. And there you have it!

Just sandwich, quilt, and bind it!

I'm not a fan of spiders. At all! But I sure like them in these fun halloween prints!

I also made another table runner but used only three blocks. I really like how these both turned out!!

Enjoy!!!

WIP...Sadie's Quilt

2011-10-19T08:00:00.006-06:00

All pinned and ready to be quilted!!

(This fabric is Bubblegum Basics by Quilt Soup for Henry Glass. Absolutely cheerful and long out of print.)

I just need to go get some white thread. Who runs out of white thread, I mean really!?!

One problem...I just realized I used Heavy Duty wonder-under to apply the circles. Dang! It is pretty stiff. I'm hoping it will soften with plenty of use. After all, who wants to wrap a stiff quilt around a sweet little baby?

beautiful wood and metal table

2011-10-17T16:02:00.000-06:00

I really want to make one of these...

Unfortunately I don't have any real woodworking experience (other than the boot-remover-thing I made in the eighth grade) and by the look of this lovely creation there is lots and lots of cutting and glueing that would be involved. Especially considering that I would want it to be like 40"x96". That's not overyly hopeful is it? :) The grain look is actually individual pieces of wood glued together...BEAUTIFUL!!

However, my husband does have some experience and my Jake-in-law has a wood shop. I think as long as I don't ask for his help (when I showed him this pic he specifically said, "don't ask for my help"--lol, your hilariously honest!) I might convince him to let us use the wood shop.

(I have been carrying this image around with me on my phone for a while and for the life of me can't remember where I found it. I have been searching online for it but just can't find it. I want to give credit where credit is due, but alas, I just can't find you again beautiful table. So sorry!)

colorful personality

2011-10-06T14:40:00.000-06:00

Red, orange, purple, pink... Her personality is just as colorful as her choice of clothing/accessories!

school boys

2011-10-03T08:00:00.003-06:00

Kiddo #2 started school this year.

These two have adjusted well to ruling the roost!

I caught them like this while making breakfast the other morning. Such a sweet quiet moment!

too tired to think of a title

2011-09-30T23:59:00.002-06:00

I haven't managed to get much sewing done lately. I have been busy and am completely worn out by the time I get the kiddos in bed.

This little stack of American Jane is from my two most recent WIPs...both of which long to be finished.

I have managed, however, to can and freeze peaches, dehydrate prunes, peaches and apples, and make sauce from the above named fruits for homemade fruit leather.

I'm thinking I might add some raspberries, bananas or oj for variety. I don't know, we'll see.

I have also been baking up this sweet little bun...

I'm 33 weeks now. I know, most people mention this sort of thing much earlier, but if you haven't noticed I have sadly neglected this blog. If you are real lucky (or perhaps not) I will see if I can get a belly pic. However, I must warn you that there isn't a whole lot that is cute about this baby-#5-belly.

The image is of its head (just so you have an idea of what you are looking at). If you were to draw a line horizontally through the middle and look at the bottom half, the large white roundish area in the center is its cheek; with the nose and mouth just to the left.

Just above this imaginary line are its fists covering its eyes.

Can you see...anything but mooshed black and white? It took me a minute.

I refer to it as an..."it" because we are not sure what this sweet little bundle will be. I love a good baby gender surprise!

I tell you, each pregnancy gets a little more painful pre- and post-delivery. I don't look forward to the nursing pains! Also, I have been enjoying the company of Braxton Hicks since about 24 weeks. This is the first time I have had regular contractions so early. They are just beginning to be painful. Not labor-painful but enough that I have found myself labor-breathing through some of them.

Since morning sickness has left me I have been surprised at how quickly it has all gone. And I only have seven weeks left...possibly less because I have only had one baby wait full term.

So much to get done in such a short time!

Better get crackin'!!

Half-Squares

2011-09-01T17:35:00.000-06:00

Here is the finished quilt that I showed a peek of earlier. I love these Arcadia fabrics and am so happy with how this turned out.

First Day of School

2011-08-30T09:12:00.000-06:00

Miss you already big guy!

she gets it from her daddy

2011-08-15T08:00:00.010-06:00

We have got major talent busting at the seams over here. Just look...

I walked in to the living room to find her carefully placing the puzzle pieces between her toes.

I can't get enough of those striped shorts...goodwill for < $1. She wears them all the time.

.

Silly Swimmers

2011-08-08T08:00:00.012-06:00

We have been swimming quite a bit this summer. It has been so nice! These two silly bugs HATED it at first. Actually "hated" would be an understatement. They would literally run in the opposite direction as soon as I pried them out of the van. Thankfully the persistence paid off. Now they ask to go wimming almost every day.

Someone referred to them as 'the twins' the other day. It was strange to hear it that way. Despite their obvious similarities they are so individual and uniquely their own. I don't really think of them as twins.

They are absolutely adorable, that's what they are!

.

Fabric Play

2011-08-06T08:00:00.005-06:00

I have been playing with these beautiful fabrics for the past few days. SOOO close to showing you! Can't wait.

(Arcadia by Sanae for Moda)

Bonus discount for my readers!!

2011-07-29T14:45:00.003-06:00

I currently have a Christmas in July sale going on over in my shop. I have reduced the price on my countdown chains by 50%!!!

As a little bonus to my readers I am offering all of you FREE SHIPPING (on countdown chains only)!
I won't be offering Countdown Chains in my shop anymore starting August 1 so run over and get yourself one!!

To get your free shipping enter code FREECIJSHIPPING at checkout.
Now hurry on over and check them out!

frozenknickers.etsy.com
(I will add pictures and a fancy invisible link this evening when I can get on my computer. For now you get this because I can't figure it out on my phone)
Have a great weekend!!!

Edited: Here you go... the post is now filled with pictures and invisible links (just click on the underlined words).

Drats!!!

2011-07-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

The shelf in our fridge slipped right between my fingers as I was putting it into the sink to wash. Grrraaahhhhh!!! So frustrating. My hubby just said, "don't worry, it's not like we have to buy a whole new fridge." Perspective. Thank you!

Mini Scrap Quilt

2011-07-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

E and N really wanted to help me sew something. I had a little stack of tiny scraps I had been holding on to for just this type of project. They enjoyed the foot pedal while I fed the fabrics. However, the first time I stopped to press and cut they got sidetracked and were out of there.

Thing 1 and Thing 2 were napping so I took advantage of the opportunity and kept going! Considering the size of this quilt it didn't take me long to finish. I had planned on it being 20"x24" finished but somewhere along the way my math skills took a nap and it finished off at 17"x18". I know!

I haven't decided whether or not to sell it because, well... look at it... its adorable! It might find a permanent residence above my sewing machine. Not sure.

Oh well, I still love it!! It had been a while since I used a meandering stitch. I had thought about straight lines but there were so many seams on such a little quilt that I wanted to make it look a little softer. Hopefully that worked.

A simple pieced back.

I love the fabrics in this line! Its Arcadia for Moda. Unfortunately it is out of print, but thankfully I have a little stash of it that I like to draw from every now-and-than.

lots of binding!

2011-07-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

I had been planning to take off last week for a girl's getaway with a bunch of the ladies on my husbands side of the family. Unfortunately babysitting fell through and my little people got sick.

In anticipation of a relaxing getaway I whipped up these two quilts (you can see them in my shop) with the intention of binding them during a little down time. That would have been nice, but I got to sit by my hubby while I finished them instead, which is always my favorite.

Here he is looking awfully sneaky behind that quilt. I used prints from two Heather Bailey lines; Bijoux and Nicey Jane. I pieced the back using some of the scraps. I like how it turned out. I still need to come up with a name for this quilt.

I do have a name for this quilt though--Building Blocks. I love, LOVE this quilt! That red square is a bit of Heather Bailey also, along with some black and cream.

I really like the quilting on this. Basically I just followed the seam lines which sort of frames the squares.

I also have patterns for both of these quilts in my shop right now.

look, don't touch

2011-07-17T00:06:00.000-06:00

I decided canned items are like uncut fabrics. They look so stinkin pretty there on the shelf that I don't want to cut into them, I would rather just stare for a while and enjoy the perfect-ness. However, it isn't until you pop off that lid that you really begin to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

And so it is with fabric...

Even when I have cut into them I like to refold and put them back in their place; all pretty and neat.

We've been busy!

2011-07-07T12:12:00.000-06:00

We love raspberries around here and have come to the conclusion that picking them is definitely an early morning activity! I was sweating at 7:00am! That is way too early to be so warm.

We look forward to all the raspberry jam and Saturday morning smoothies that are to come!

What are some of your favorite things to make with raspberries?

Pretty Picture

2011-06-04T08:00:00.001-06:00

My before mentioned 4 year-old came running up to me with this picture. When a kid is so excited to show you something he created you cant cry, no matter how it looks! I asked him to tell me about the picture. He said, "It's you mom!" with all the love and admiration a little guy can have.

I don't keep all my kids pics, but this one with all it's scary-movie nightmarish vibe going on is definitely a keeper! It's not beautiful but it's one of those 'it could be worse' reminders. Like, "wow, look at those bags under my eyes". I can just look at this picture and think, "well, at least I don't have bags all around my eyes." Or when I think, "wow, my hair is really thinning out", I can look at this pic and think, "at least I still have more than eight strands of hair."

So you can see, this pic is definitely a keeper! Just like the little artist who so lovingly drew it for me.

Flea Puzzle

2011-06-01T22:47:00.001-06:00

My four year-old, Mr. N, brought me these post-its and told me it was a puzzle and wanted me to figure it out. So cute!

So I did. I showed him my completed work and asked him to tell me about the picture. His very serious response was, "they are fleas jumping on a dog."

I know, gross, but so stinking cute! Oh, I love that kid!

Check This Out!

2011-03-25T21:53:00.001-06:00

Babble named me one of Etsy's top 50 Baby Shops. They included my countdown chains in their nursery decor category. Pretty cool! There are many very wonderful nursery decor items on Etsy so it is a real honor to be considered.

I love what I do and enjoy that others appreciate it!

Also...I have a new item in my shop!

I really, really like the soft back-and-forth design in the quilting. I will definitely be using this one again. This Heather Bailey prints are lovely!

Happy Picture

2011-03-11T22:35:00.003-07:00

Something about this photo, I just love!

Maybe it's the combination of blues and greens with a splash of white.

Or, perhaps it is the simplicity of his amusement or the motion of flight.

It could be that it exhausted my sis to throw him in the air over and over and over while I played photographer. What you might see on her face looks like a joyful smile, but I really know it is her Kersten-you-better-be-done-soon-or-else!

I really don't know why, but I love it!

(my sis and her little man)

My husband thinks I love this pic because of the "volleyball hands and go-go-gadget arms"...it might just be.

Love you sis and little man!

little people

2011-03-02T08:00:00.001-07:00

boy, gut and machine

2011-02-26T15:38:00.002-07:00

Thing 1 had a little accident... I had to shave all his adorable hair off.

Dominos + Thing 2 + 5 minutes = A stretched shirt

While on the chair lift...

I had forgotten what life was like without Berni until last week I was reminded. He cost me $120 for 10 seconds of repair. That little stinker. He better be grateful.

Now that I have him back I can finish a couple projects...so excited! I have got some fun ones coming. Can't wait to show you!

Modern Stripes

2011-02-22T08:00:00.002-07:00

This is one of my very favorite quilts...so far. I finally made the pattern for it and have it available in my shop.

Moving...

2011-01-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

We're in...finally!
Still have boxes everywhere.
My little ones unpack quicker than I can put things away.

I'll catch up more later...
~k

WIP finished!

2010-11-06T18:00:00.003-06:00

I have had this quilt top sitting in on my shelf for almost a year. There was something about it I just didn't like. I recently showed it to my sister and she suggested I take off the outer border...PERFECT! I absolutely LOVE it now! I used my Pinwheel Parade pattern but made it bigger and used wonky pinwheels instead.

And the back...Oh, the back! I LOVE the back! Cute enough to be the front.

The fabric is Wonderland by Momo for Moda. Isn't it fabulous! I just added it to my shop.

Thing 1 & Thing 2

2010-11-04T16:39:00.002-06:00

You always hope your kids pics go well, but you always know they wont go as planned...our Halloween pics demonstrate that...

As I was taking the pics I kept trying to get them to "just sit still." Yeah right! I think their costumes this year fit their personalities perfectly. Two high energy, small bodied, blue haired people that follow only one rule--make as much trouble as possible.

Hope your Halloween was filled with mischievous blue-haired small people!

temporary move

2010-10-08T18:21:00.000-06:00

We are moving tomorrow from bunking with my sister to another temporary rental.

My dear aunt and uncle have had quite the delays with the construction of their new home. Since we are moving into their old home as soon as it is available we are feeling the trickling effect of those delays.

Gratefully, my fam has been generous in allowing us to stay with them.

However, we are all ready to have our own space again.

My dad has a rental that opened the other day so we will be moving in there tomorrow until our permanent home becomes available...whenever that might be.

This has been quite the moving experience!

We still have smiles on our faces, a roof over our heads, food on our table and each other to enjoy. We are blessed!

I love having two!

2010-09-21T12:39:00.002-06:00

This is what I found when I looked outside as I was canning peaches the other day...

They are getting so big!

how to: sandwich your quilt layers

2010-09-15T08:00:00.007-06:00

1. Lay your quilt back face-down on a clean hard surface. Tape around the edges with masking/painting tape.

2. Add your batting. Smooth it out. Depending on the quality of batting you are using your may or may not need to tape it down also.

3. Top with your quilt face-up. Make sure the back and batting are 2-4" wider than the quilt top on each side. Smooth it out.

Here is a look at the back and batting wider than the top.

4. Pin, lots! Your batting package may indicate how often it should be pinned. It is generally every 4-8". If you need to cut off excess back or batting be sure to keep them 2-4" wider than the quilt top. Your layers may shift slightly during quilting and this will save you from having your beautifully pieced top hanging over the back.

There you have it! Quick and easy.

Here it is!

2010-09-13T22:02:00.004-06:00

I had a blue stripe for the binding, but as I was getting ready to stitch it on I just couldn't do it. It wasn't right. My sis agreed. I ordered this orange and couldn't be happier with the results!

I'm thinking I need one for ~~myself~~ my baby. I LOVE the randomness of it! It's got the quilt and the pattern over in my shop right now.

I FOUND IT!!!

2010-08-30T11:59:00.002-06:00

The cord thing was only five feet away in my husbands computer bag the whole time. Go figure. :) So happy to have it. I don't have a pic of the quilt yet but here is a pic I took of the fabric before I put it together. I absolutely LOVE the final product. I'll show you soon.

When I pulled the pics off my camera I found some from our travels during the move...

HOME!

(please ignore the dirty window)

We're Here!

2010-08-27T22:16:00.000-06:00

So... we have been here for a couple weeks. We are currently bunking in with my sis and her fam. (Thank You, Sis!)

We are waiting now to move into our new-to-us home. I keep dreaming of all the decorating I will be doing. I've got some fun ideas, but there just gonna have to wait.

Before today I had not done any sewing since the move. I know, Crazy! These last few days I have really been itching to pull Berni out of the closet and sew something fabulous together. I finally did it! I finished a quilt top I had started a while back. I can't wait to show you all. Actually, I would post a pic now, but I can't find my camera cord. Go figure. As soon as I find it you will be the first to know!

Funny story...

My son, E was hanging out with me as I was sewing. I was cutting off small excess triangle pieces I didn't need. As he was playing with them he realized if he sewed two together at the points it would look like a butterfly. So we made a butterfly. He gifted it to me. Such a sweet boy.

A while later he decided he wanted to ungift it and sell it for $200. A few minutes later I noticed him walking out toward the road. We currently live on a very quiet country road. Probably don't get more than 20 cars pass in a day. But close by is a much busier road. I asked him what he was doing and he said, "I'm trying to figure out how to get those cars to come over here to buy this butterfly." (Insert chuckle)

Me: Come over here and we will talk about it.

... (indicates time passing as he walks slowly with his head hanging down past his shoulders)

Me: Come sit on my lap. (I proceed to kindly explain to him that all things have a value and that some things are most valuable as gifts to grandmas/aunties/moms...his being one of them)

E: But I really want to sell it...for $200!

Me: Well, maybe you can give it to your auntie as a gift.

E: Maybe I can give it to her as a gift and have her pay me $10!

Me: Maybe you can ask her if she will buy if for a nickle. That is FIVE PENNIES! (expressed with extra enthusiasm) Actually, you should ask her if she will buy it for a quarter and if she says no you should ask her how much she will buy it for.

E: (as he leaps off my lap and runs into the house to ask his auntie) I will ask her to pay me $1 for it!

... (a short laps as he runs full speed)

E: Auntie, will you buy this from me for $1?

Auntie: (since rejecting his offer of $200, she sweetly replies) Sure. Of course I will buy it for $1.

(E looks over at me in complete amazement.)

Auntie: Do you take change?

E: ... (silence)

Auntie: Orrr...maybe not. :) I'll get you a dollar bill.

E: (running back to me) Mom, she bought it! FOR $1! Lets make some more so I can sell more. Mom, will buy one from me for $1?

Me: Kiddo, this is my fabric.

E: So...will you buy one from me for $1?

Can't blame a kid for trying.

It's good to be back!
~kersten

...Another Door Opens.

2010-08-12T15:35:00.001-06:00

When did we collect 26' x 7 1/2' x 8' of stuff? Good thing I had a garage sale last week (and for Mikes mad 3D packing skills) , we never would have been able to fit everything otherwise.

Thanks to all the church members who helped us load and a HUGE thanks to B for dinner, hanging out with my kids all night and hers (while having her own baby strapped to her back) and for vacuuming my living room. Bless your heart! You inspire me to be better. I'm sure gonna miss you.

I had a good poor me I am moving cry yesterday. I needed it. I feel much better now. I'm gonna miss this wonderful place and many amazing friends and family but I'm very excited for our future!

We are off tomorrow. I'm about as excited as a six year-old on Christmas Eve. Can't wait.

Until next time...

When One Door Closes...

2010-08-08T22:22:00.001-06:00

We said goodbye tonight to a lot of people we love.

It was hard.

This little farming community has become home for our young family. We will miss it here.

Grandma planned a party and grandpa smoked some delicious beef.

There were lots of loved ones...

and plenty of messy baby faces.

It was perfect. We love you all and look forward to seeing you again!

BTW - B, I loved your jeans.

Ironing Board Cover Tutorial

2010-08-05T09:18:00.002-06:00

I recently made a ironing board cover for a friend. I loved how easy it was and thought it would make a great tutorial for a quick and easy project. The best thing is you can easily customize these directions to any size of ironing board!

This is what you will need:

Cotton Fabric

Cord (I used #2 Polyester Cord--for window coverings)

Cord Stop (just one)

safety pin

Basic sewing supplies

To determine the amount of fabric you will need measure the length of your ironing board and add 13. My board is 54".

54+13= 67"

Of those extra 13 inches, eight will be for wrapping around the board and the other five are for shrinkage/fraying that will occur when laundered (wash/dry before you begin).

Because I wanted to use more of this fabric for future projects I just got 2 yards (72").

Lets get started...

Lay your fabric right side down on the ground. Put your ironing board on top of it. Mark 4" around the board with dots. Play a little game of connect the dots to get the line you will cut along. If you decide you want the cover to wrap around your board less, that is completely up to you. I would just suggest not cutting the fabric any less than 3" wider than the board.

If you have a serger you can use it instead of cutting with scissors. This will eliminate the need to double fold when sewing.

I really like this fabric marker!

Now cut it out. You will need to replace your current ironing board cover and pad for this project.

(you might notice my board is missing its legs. my son used it as a pretend surf board one day. he was fine, but it didn't end too well for the board.)

Fold the edge of your fabric 1/4". Press with your iron. Determine where the center top is of your fabric. This is where you will thread the cord though. You only need to leave about 1" for the opening so stitch this 1/4" fold down about 3-4" in the top center. Backstitch at both ends. This will reinforce this area and keep it from fraying later.

If you have an overlock stitch (#3 and #8 are two types of overlock stitches) on your machine, you can sew around the edge of your fabric using that stitch instead of turning it under 1/4".

Now fold it under 3/4" and pin (make sure it is wide enough for your safety pin to go through). You wont need to pin as frequently on the straight sides as you do on the curves. Press it if you like or just remove the pins when you get to each one (be careful not to break any pins or your needle).

See how I have two pins next to each other under my presser foot and than two pins next to each other behind the presser foot? I did that so I remembered to leave an opening for the the cord. DONT stitch between the two sets. Use a straight stitch as you sew around the board cover. Stitch along the fold or along the inside of the serged/overlock stitch. Backstitch at the beginning and end.

FYI, the curved areas of your fabric will pleat a little when stitched in place. It will not lay completely flat when turned under.

To determine the amount of cord you need, measure around the edge of your cover and add 15. My cover measured 145".

145+15= 160"

Thread your cord onto a safety pin. Insert it into the area you left unstitched at the top of the cover and thread it through. Thread cord ends through your cord stop. Secure your cord ends so they don't fray.

Put it on your board and enjoy!

Something about these silly birds makes me happy. The word 'frou-frou' comes to mind. Sounds like something my dad would say.

Those of you with mini boards... Depending on the length of your board and the width of your fabric, you might be able to use the width of fabric to run along the length of your board.

i.e. If your board is 30" long and the width of your fabric is at least 42", this can work. Just keep in mind that the direction of the design on the fabric will run the width of the board, not the length. If the width of your board is 12" you can probably get by with only 2/3 yard.

Why I have been MIA...

2010-08-03T13:51:00.000-06:00

My little family is moving...next week. I can't believe it is almost here. We originally thought of moving next summer, but things turned out so we could make the move this August. And really, once you decide to move, the waiting is the hardest part.

My older boys have enjoyed one more summer here spending time with their grandparents--swimming, going to an air show, getting farm parts and lunches with grandpa, helping grandma with yard work, having sleepovers--doing the things they love to do. Thank you grandma and grandpa!

These last couple weeks have found me deep into packing. I have found the word "packing" doesn't just mean putting things into boxes. It is sorting, trashing, selling, donating, cleaning and organizing. The biggest move we have made since having kids (kids=lots more "stuff") was about 15 miles. Next week we will be going 600+ miles. We now have even more "stuff" than we did when we made that short 15 mile move.

Why is it that once you start packing, your house seems to be so messy? Oh well only a few days left.

Any suggestions from you more experienced movers out there?

Yes, even in the middle of all this "packing" I find time to sew. Not much, only a few minutes in the evening after my kids are in bed. I need it, actually. It is a major stress reliever for me. I wanted to come up with something quick and easy that I can share with you all before the big move.

Come back Thursday and ironing might just become your newest favorite chore...maybe.

SALE!

2010-07-27T15:51:00.002-06:00

--SALE HAS ENDED--

Just in case you haven't been over to my Etsy Shop recently, I am have a Christmas In July SALE going on right now. All products have been marked down 20%! These are the lowest my prices have ever been. This SALE continues until the end of the month. Just 3 MORE DAYS!

I have patterns...

quilt kits...

a quilt...

and countdown chains!

Plus, I offer a coupon with every purchase! Don't miss it, only 3 MORE DAYS!

After - Vintage Cosco High Chair

2010-07-24T08:00:00.003-06:00

Remember this awful before picture of the lovely vintage Cosco high chair? Peeling paint, rust, burn mark on the seat. It really needed some love.

Here is the after...

Stripped, sanded, repainted and reupholstered. I love this Amy Butler fabric! I added vinyl for easy cleaning.

The only thing to improve this high chair is an adorable little person...

I might need to attach a securing strap...

Like I said before, this is a family heirloom. My mother and her sisters sat it in, my sisters and I sat in it and now I have it for my children. I imagine it is sturdy enough for my grandchildren to sit in someday.

Hope you love it as much as I do!

Scrap Busting Table Runner

2010-07-22T22:54:00.002-06:00

I made another one of these, but this time I added it to my Etsy shop.

Bullseye Block Tutorial

2010-07-22T09:01:00.002-06:00

I am posting a tutorial for this bullseye block over at CluckCluckSew today. Run over and check it out!

Desk Project

2010-07-09T08:00:00.003-06:00

Picked it up at a garage sale. Just what I needed...another project...?

See this beautiful wall paper adorning the table top? I wanted to see how hard it was to scrape off and before I pulled out the camera I almost had half of it off. Oops, you still get the idea.

I am very excited for the drawer in the front. I love drawers. Any ideas for paint colors I should use?

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-06T23:42:00.007-06:00

Modern Squares Baby Quilt

2010-06-26T20:03:00.003-06:00

The newest addition to my shop.

Love it!

Prince Charming

2010-06-26T12:05:00.001-06:00

My husband is so good to me. He is so busy and rarely has the time to mow the lawn, which means I am usually the one doing it. Which is fine, but it is so nice when he does it...like this morning.

This is a monster of a trampoline. There is no way I can move this on my own, which means when I am the one mowing it usually doesn't get moved....

and the grass ends up looking like this. My boys call it their jungle.

Thank you dear sweet husband!

Doesn't this look so nice!?

My flower beds really need weeded! See those extremely tall dandy-lions mixed in with the flowers. Oh, well. Such is life.

Vintage Cosco High Chair

2010-06-21T08:00:00.012-06:00

I recently got this high chair from my mom. Having serviced seven little ones, it has been though a lot!

I REALLY liked the original look, but there is a burn mark from a pot, peeling paint on the tray and rust on the legs and arms so I decided to give it a little face lift.

I took the seat and back off and oh man was it nasty! I'll keep you posted on the change.

I would SO love to get my hands on another one so each of my babies could have one.

Actually, I think this high chair is from the 1950's. If so, that means it might have been my mother's also. How sweet to think that my babies are sitting in the same chair their grandma sat in at their age.

*Ignore the awful pictures! By the time I got them uploaded to my computer I had already taken the seat and back apart. The final pics will looks much better, PROMISE!

stash busting table runner

2010-06-17T16:33:00.013-06:00

It's not very often that I make something for myself but considering how much I LOVE Bubblegum Basics I knew I had to before I work through my whole stash.

This runner is approx. 42" long and 11" wide. Fits perfectly on top of my dresser.

I think next time I might sandwich the front, batting and back together before I stitch on the pieces. We'll see.

Chains!!!

2010-05-24T16:21:00.002-06:00

Have I mention, I LOVE countdown chains? So fun!

Just added a few more to my etsy shop.

Daily Dialogue

2010-05-18T15:05:00.006-06:00

"Mom, take a picture of me getting the earwax out of my ear."

"Okay. Are you going to eat it?"

"Ewww, thats gross." (while smiling as though he is actually thinking about it)

Picnic

2010-05-17T14:45:00.002-06:00

We had our first official outside-on-a-blanket picnic today. Gone are the days (at least for a few months) of pitching the blanket in the living room.

Ditch Water

2010-05-13T09:05:00.003-06:00

In all my years growing up on a farm, I never saw the water come into the ditch.

So when my six year-old came running in the door yesterday exclaiming that the water was coming in "10 minutes!", I was just as excited as he was.

I quickly finished the dishes, bundled up Thing 1 & Thing 2 and waited for the water to come. It did. Finally. After about 30 minutes. Take if from me, it is SO hard to wait patiently when you are so ridiculously excited!

The water master had a few guys helping him. They didn't understand why I was taking pictures. In fact, one of them said, "So, why are you taking pictures of the water?" He was completely dumbfounded.

To blog about, of course!

Can you add something to your bucket list once you realize it should have already been there?

That evening I asked my six year-old what he was thinking when the water was coming in. In his true character, "I was thinking I want to be one of those guys when I grow up so I can help the water come in the ditch."

Nice.

parties, parties and more parties

2010-05-10T09:46:00.002-06:00

The weather man was right. I woke up the next morning to snow. I think I was being teased.

Gratefully it was melted before noon and it was warm enough to play outside by the time the party started.

I was able to take a mini vacation and visit some family and friends over the weekend. I had so much fun! As I was packing I realized it was only the second time in seven years (since I was married) that I wasn't packing for or sharing suitcase space with someone else. In fact, I was able to pack all my things in a bag not much larger than a purse. It was fabulous! Of course, I went shopping and came home with twice the amount. Like it said, it was fabulous!

However, I did miss my little family.

Daddy was spectacular. Every day was another party. Apparently, Saturday lunch was a nutritious combination of cheeto puffs, cereal, root beer, french bread and yogurt. As I was closing the door to leave I heard my six year-old say something. Thinking he must be expressing his disappointment on my departure I thought it best to go back in and reassure him that all would be well and he would enjoy his time with daddy. I opened the door and asked if he had said something to me, to which he replied, "No, I am just planning our boy party."

Pretty sure it was an enjoyable weekend for all!

Hoping For Warmer Days

2010-05-05T14:28:00.002-06:00

It's beautiful today.

Really, it's beautiful everyday. Sometimes it's just hard to see.

It's cold and windy. It's usually windy here. The clouds make their way across the sky, occasionally allowing the sun an opportunity to warm our skin. The wind picks up again. Goosebumps.

The trees and bushes want to bloom. Hoping for warmer days.

My sons birthday is tomorrow. He'll be six. There will be darts, a treasure hunt, a piñata and mud pie. The weather man says there will also be rain. Maybe snow. Move the piñata and little boys inside? I sure hope it doesn't rain. Hopefully their mamas send them over dressed appropriately.

My grass needs cut. Hoping for warmer days.

Grandma's Eggs

2010-05-05T10:02:00.003-06:00

A few nights ago, Fabio* was tucking our children into bed when my first-born said, "(snif snif) something stinks." Second-born piped in with, "(a long pondering snif) Mmm...it smells good. Like grandmas eggs. I'm hungry!"

*Name changed to protect the stinker.

rain rain STAY ALL DAY!

2010-04-22T16:01:00.005-06:00

My 5 year-old kept trying to get out of going to school this morning (I can only wait to see what the future holds) with "stomach pains" and "being too tired" and finally, "Its raining today! I think they cancelled school mom" (while crossing his fingers).

I decided to go out and take some dilettante* pictures with my amateur point-and-shoot.

I love the rain!... and puddles. Unfortunately I was not able to take any pictures of myself dancing through the puddles. You'll just have to imagine...

I love this barn and the big wood pile leaning against it. Also, these are plum trees...YUM!

Digging the wet/dry contrast...

Had to add some worm-age! This thing was about one foot long. Can you see the little trail it left through that spot of mud?

No, not much to look at but this is my favorite tree.

Can you guess why? I call it my Love Tree...

HAPPY EARTH DAY!!!

*Yes, I did just look up a synonym for amateur on my handy-dandy mac dashboard and dilettante was the only word that appeared that was not in my microscopic vocabulary.

Shop Update!!!

2010-04-21T21:01:00.002-06:00

I have always loved paper countdown chains. There is something so fun and exciting about removing a link. Then another. And another.... Until finally the big day is here!

When Mr. Knickers was about two months away from graduating, my boys and I made a huge paper chain to count down to the big day. My boys loved it! The same goes for Christmas and birthdays. Yeah, we love paper chains around here.

Since I adore sewing it only made sense to make one with fabric. Now I have a few in my shop...

Not only are they a great representation of the excitement and anticipation of a coming event, but they are pretty dang cute too. Cute enough to keep hanging up as decoration long after the special occasion has passed!

I also added a pattern for a Table Topper...

Go check them out here, here and here.

Oh, and did I mention my oldest lost his first tooth? Crazy!

Remember how I mentioned

2010-04-20T08:57:00.003-06:00

I was working with these...

Well, I finished the kits a while ago but FINALLY listed them in my etsy shop.

Here it is in red/blue/pink...

and again in blue/green/yellow.

These kits are for baby sized quilts...my soon-to-be six year-old still sleeps with his baby blanket this size...so does his 24 year-old auntie, but don't tell her I told you so. I LOVE that size! It is easily packed, easily carried by little ones and so. very. adorable!

The coolest part about this whole thing? I sold one within an hour of posting it. Can you believe it? Thank you so much etsy buyer!!!

Go check them out...you know you want to!!!

packing lunches

2010-04-14T10:00:00.003-06:00

It has been a little quiet around here. My apologies.

I dont typically buy chips but Mr. Knickers has been doing a lot of day traveling and when added to a sandwich and fruits/veggies they make for a quick lunch. This is the reason I don't like to buy chips...

My five year-old didn't have school today so he asked his daddy if he could go to work with him. He even offered to pack their lunch for them. SIX bags of chips, a handful of easter candy and two bananas. Daddy helped even it out by making sandwiches and taking a few bags of chips out. Love that kid!

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-03-24T15:40:00.003-06:00

I know they are weeds, but I was SO excited to see little green things peaking out of the dirt. I couldn't believe it...in March!

This wonderful place I call home is known for it's crazy weather. Let me paint a picture...two days ago, in the space of about five hours, the sun was shining, birds were singing and the last remnants of winter were melting. Soon we waved goodbye to the sun as it hid behind the approaching ominous cloud cover. The wind began blowing and the rains came sprinkling down. Before long, as if in perfect harmony, the rain was driven out by a fierce onslaught of hail and roaring thunder which laid siege on all below. It looked as if the hail was intent on penetrating the earth, hoping to weaken its defenses. Almost as if the ground put up a shield and began to defend itself, the hail fell helpless into a benign layer of white. This war only lasted a few minutes. It was soon taken over by the healing powers of the quiet and peaceful snow as it fell dreamily to the ground where it stayed under the protection of the clouds for the remainder of the day.

Basic Pinwheel Tutorial

2010-03-15T15:32:00.005-06:00

It is no secret, I LOVE pinwheel quilts. I made one for my baby, but have it hanging on his bedroom wall because I don't want it to get ruined. I know, not very nice of me, but he doesn't know the difference. I recently made another and wanted to share a "How To Make A Pinwheel" tutorial. These are instructions for a basic pinwheel.

What you'll need...
2- 5" squares of the same print
2- 5" squares neutral fabric
sewing supplies

How you'll make it...

1. Using a fabric pen or chalk, draw a line diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner on the wrong side of both neutral squares, as shown below.

2. Place a neutral square and a printed square right-sides-together. Sew 1/4" along each side of the line as shown below.

3. Cut along pen line. Press seams toward the dark side.

4. Cut off the nubs. Sew two together to make half a pinwheel. Press seam open to reduce bulk.

5. Then sew both halves together as shown below. Press seam open to reduce bulk.

5. Trim your pinwheel. I like the final size of my pinwheels to be 8" square, so I trim them down to 8 1/2" square.

Here is the final product. LOVE IT!

(ignore the shadow)

Not much...

2010-03-15T14:48:00.002-06:00

to report on. We have been sick around these parts lately. Sick big brother, sick babies and I think I am getting a little sick now.

Mr. Knickers had a nose job a couple weeks ago. Not really. It was a whole bunch of fancy worded procedures that basically translate into helping reduce sinus infections, sleep apnea and snoring (crossing my fingers on that one). Hope it worked!

Until next time...

I asked my husband...

2010-02-20T15:30:00.002-07:00

if he thought we should make our little girl a "mini kitchen" (I love this one) when she gets a little older and he said, "We might as well train her young. Maybe we can get her a washing machine too."

I should have seen that one coming. :)

I was invited...

2010-02-18T15:50:00.002-07:00

to another picnic.

It was a cracker, banana, and "milk and water togedder" picnic. I loved it!

Up Next...

2010-02-18T14:53:00.003-07:00

My next project is going to consist of a bunch of this...

OH. MY. YUM! I can't wait.

Jean Quilt

2010-02-17T17:49:00.002-07:00

My first jean quilt...

I made this for my sister.

Note to self...use a DENIM needle. I might have gone through a couple universal ones. I didn't have any when I started but now I have a nice little supply of denim needles.

Hope you love it sis!

The Other Day...

2010-02-15T11:48:00.004-07:00

...my son asked if I could help him make a hammock using a blanket. I grabbed a couple folding chairs and we figured it out! He LOVED it! I only wish it was big enough for the two of us to snuggle in together.

I LOVE these little feet!

He also invited me to a "Chip Picnic". He broke them himself and we shared from this bowl. We might have refilled the bowl several once or twice.

I want...

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to learn to KNIT! Doesn't that sound fun!?

Snow Lickers

2010-02-05T14:22:00.003-07:00

Neglectful Blogger...and Sewer

2010-02-04T16:58:00.003-07:00

I know, I know... I have been completely neglectful!

Somehow, four small children keep me busy on my toes. I haven't had much time to sew and therefore I take even less time to blog because I feel there is not much--sewing wise--to blog about.

However, I am determined to change that! I am going to shoot for updating my blog once a week. That may not sound like much, but for right now it is a lot. Hopefully I can find the time to work on projects so I have something to blog about.

Oh wait, one thing I have been working on is a jean quilt for my sister (picture coming soon). It is almost done...thank goodness. As much as I have enjoyed working on it, I am so ready to move to the next project. I find I am like that with most of my projects. Once the end is in sight I start thinking about all the other projects I want/need to tackle and then get excited to move on.

And another thing... I am going to be posting a crib size Pinwheel Quilt tutorial soon.

Busy Busy!

2010-01-16T08:37:00.002-07:00

I know I have been absent for a while. Between holidays and working on projects, life has been real busy. I am working on a pinwheel quilt tutorial right now and will have that posted soon.

Christmas Tree Hot Pad

2009-12-19T13:39:00.005-07:00

I posted a tutorial over at Apron Girls for this easy to make hot pad.

on this day...

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Accidents Happen

2009-11-25T20:53:00.002-07:00

My three year old was hanging out with me the other day as I was sewing. I had told him he could cut the thread scraps (with scissors I didn't think were very sharp). All of a sudden my machine stopped. I found that the cord to my pedal was snipped. He wasn't hurt--thank goodness! I called the repairman, but he was three days out. No sewing for three days? I decided to fix it. I have seen my hubby do enough electrical work that I figured I could do it too.

Here is a pic after I stripped back the outer cover.

Covered with electrical tape.

I am happy to say that it works good as new. And yes, when I can part with it for a few days I will get it professionally fixed.

five year old photographer

2009-11-25T11:52:00.003-07:00

This is what you get when a five year old takes your pictures.

The 'while I am fixing my hair' picture...

the headless picture...

and the "mommy, I really want twenty just a few sideways" picture.

It was a lot of fun having a photo shoot with him.

This is the one my hubby nominated for my blog photo. He loves the crazy eyes!

Two Firsts

2009-11-16T11:02:00.003-07:00

First First... Free motion quilting. I LOVE IT! I am definitely a beginner, but I sure learned a lot. Now I just need more practice. I just recently got a new machine and my old one didn't have the free motion foot, so I always just did straight lines. It was SO FUN to create a different look.

Second First... Hand stitching binding. Up to this point I have successfully avoided hand stitching on my bindings. Once I start a project I like to get it done as quickly as possible. Hand stitching never sounded too appealing. Than I took the plunge and I REALLY enjoyed it! It was one of those mindless things, like folding laundry, that gives you the opportunity to just slow down.

The best thing about all of this is that they were done on my first quilt pattern for sale, which will be for purchase soon. Infact, this photo is a little sneak peek of it.

My Life

2009-11-16T10:46:00.004-07:00

I think winter is finally here. Than again, it was 60 degrees just last week.

Quilts

2009-10-20T09:13:00.005-06:00

I have been sewing occasionally for that last five years, but it wasn't until this spring that I actually got into quilting. These were the first two quilts I made this spring.

I super-duper LOVE this pinwheel quilt!

I have got another in the works. Pictures to hopefully come soon (if I can ever finish it)!

Blah Blog

2009-10-20T08:55:00.002-06:00

This blog is looking kind of blah for now, but when I get a few minutes I will freshen it up a bit.

My new crafty blog!

2009-10-19T12:09:00.001-06:00

Hello to everyone who may at one point read this! I have been thinking for a while now that I should start a quilting/crafty blog to post about all those lovely (usually lovely) things that I sew.

So, here I go...

A pillow I made my cousin using Simple Abundance. My three year old son might have trouble parting with this as he says this is his favorite pillow. I might just have to make him his own.

This fabric is from this awesome mother/daughter team. I will post pictures of others soon.