tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74815777253979353502023-11-16T07:39:14.071-05:00Stitchin' TherapyMy journey in quilting that features watercolor quilts, scrap quilts, and lots of fabric and color.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.comBlogger1359125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-60660340572684511212021-04-20T15:04:00.001-04:002021-04-25T15:35:53.364-04:00<p> Hi All - </p><p>thank you to all the friends my mom has made while she has been writing her blog & her years quilting. </p><p>Thank for the support & prayers.</p><p>This morning at 10.43am my mom passed away from the cancer that took over quickly. She was surrounded by me (Daughter), Sir Old man & her brother. </p><p>She will be missed & I know she influenced many of you to experiment & take chances with your quilting. Keep doing that in her honor. </p><p>Thank you again.</p><p>Deana</p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-41765807802598077702021-03-26T13:49:00.001-04:002021-03-27T07:38:11.923-04:00Updating my saga<p> Before forget....I wanted to share the photo from Irina of her finished watercolor quilt. It was a Whims kit that she modified to fit the arrangement layout that she wanted. She did an amazing job with the applique and then added beading accents. I think it is stunning.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kkcMIB3H7QZUjQtlmn4CxIkPGFRhthWrVOQlVIUQ-iZ5U41eJJHSy1t-yeGVEctoL-OsK2LqDlaYhNgGq_JlAhGJ81Nw-Vo1DgRO7DYJG-6BlymJ9XazkGEQs712MFObeIho5jpKKdI//" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kkcMIB3H7QZUjQtlmn4CxIkPGFRhthWrVOQlVIUQ-iZ5U41eJJHSy1t-yeGVEctoL-OsK2LqDlaYhNgGq_JlAhGJ81Nw-Vo1DgRO7DYJG-6BlymJ9XazkGEQs712MFObeIho5jpKKdI/w400-h300/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now to the update. I have shared with a few followers who have emailed me. I am very weak and wanted to give a link to all friends and family too to the Caring Bridge site we set up..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/debbieclarkesc" target="_blank"> https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/debbieclarkesc</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> This link will take you there to follow my saga. To leave comments there you must be a registered user, which is a simple process at no cost. Even without registering you can read about the health saga. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you all for your support and encouragement. Make a quilt and pass it on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hugs, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Debbie</div><p></p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-84253875956543200832021-02-01T16:08:00.000-05:002021-02-01T16:08:49.321-05:00Took a long break<p> I missed a whole month, an entire 31 days. January was a blur for me of doctors--another one retired and a new one began, medications, appointments, and changes. The drug changes did not have the desired improving effect....lol, no surprise there really. So I am on a new regime and we will re do the testing in another 6 weeks. </p><p> Then came the day of the vaccine.....I really wish I had not done this. For me, it was a bad idea. I handle other stuff but not this one. Within 12 hours I was flat out on my back, with chills, aches, headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, plus wheezing. I know, I know. I read that most people recover from side effects in 48 hours. Well, 4 days later and I can barely stand up and I am on a tele visit with the doctor. It is now 10 days later and I am still enduring the stomach distress, but all else is better. Except the fatigue. I am up 2 hours at a time and then need a rest. I will survive but I won't be getting a second vaccine shot. I will take whatever 50% or so effectiveness and run! Please, do your own research and make your own decision about the vaccine. I am just writing this for my record more than anything. I do know many who had no problem at all....including Sir Old Man. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86nXyiEVcy3zLlOgL3ZBazioxURegV0uH92mwCKry2wDn6I7SQrw1MHfx7fXKPwQa40MCCTmXktZgGCdwO95BBrNkPgOfSB99rdqIAIe1veQhp8BryxmHiM8IMc0UJowHgFhJphzSBfQ//" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1922" data-original-width="1418" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86nXyiEVcy3zLlOgL3ZBazioxURegV0uH92mwCKry2wDn6I7SQrw1MHfx7fXKPwQa40MCCTmXktZgGCdwO95BBrNkPgOfSB99rdqIAIe1veQhp8BryxmHiM8IMc0UJowHgFhJphzSBfQ/w295-h400/image.png" width="295" /></a></div> On to much better things. I did manage to get some sewing done and got the leader and ender project joined into a top. This is the Easy Breezy project from Bonnie Hunter. It's a year's worth of leader and ender units. I have the strips cut for the first narrow border. Hoping to get them sewn on soon. <p></p><p> I was at a very low point in the middle of the month, when an email came from a reader, who asked for some advice on free motion quilting and watercolor quilts. Since I am a sucker with lots of opinions, I had to jump in and respond. </p><p> What has followed has been a wonderful opportunity to share, teach, and inspire. For me, that is the fun of having a blog. Irina is from an area with no quilt shops or nearby quilters to turn to. She said she tried FB but got only "likes" and little input. So, we began talking and working with her thru a project she wanted to make. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOrIKq9FjhVOfYz9DbLDlIsfLxkAEw_wRd-vpHFNVcxYkHIJZ4XxqitP85PjxlqQGzl7cRe4suu1qKcd54BkRzxiCYbdiEJmMa6Q-4F3Sq5Ovqzr2EVqr0UCMLJcbsJVV-uCQmY4vE3k//" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOrIKq9FjhVOfYz9DbLDlIsfLxkAEw_wRd-vpHFNVcxYkHIJZ4XxqitP85PjxlqQGzl7cRe4suu1qKcd54BkRzxiCYbdiEJmMa6Q-4F3Sq5Ovqzr2EVqr0UCMLJcbsJVV-uCQmY4vE3k/w240-h320/image.png" width="240" /></a></div> Irina wanted shadow boxes around the fairy blocks, with sashing and border. I suggested the multiple rows of straight line quilting for the shadow box areas, and some wavy lines in the border. It turned out great!<p></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFdlJMp3EJsz__E5jCyMPX9CYF_kj30r5AxU_AeaN32hpRvfT1l48sOk_h07Fmi9B6yjRNl4RmguuSKP-9JggtlvkKgQFpBP4PZEyxef0ulLr6nRMt5V4oUSgttLQreTj-qW-peyM9QQ//" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFdlJMp3EJsz__E5jCyMPX9CYF_kj30r5AxU_AeaN32hpRvfT1l48sOk_h07Fmi9B6yjRNl4RmguuSKP-9JggtlvkKgQFpBP4PZEyxef0ulLr6nRMt5V4oUSgttLQreTj-qW-peyM9QQ/w300-h400/image.png" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></div> <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> And that was my month! </p><p>Here's for improving days and warmer temperatures for us all. I hope to seek down the hall and sew for a while.</p><p>Happy stitching. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-90746684714366551492020-12-31T09:29:00.001-05:002020-12-31T09:29:36.301-05:00Bring on the New Year!<p> Year 2020...... not the most productive in my life. Major efforts were made into a collage. </p><p> In the center is the wonky Court House steps quilt. About half of these blocks were made prior to this year, and being in lockdown was a good reason to assemble them.</p><p> Upper left, just strings, and more string blocks! This turned in to my Chaos Quilt, or what I thought would be the pandemic quilt. I figured by the end of this one the pandemic would be history. And the joke was on me.....so Chaos it became.</p><p> Lower left is the spool block quilt. Lots of spool blocks were made during the Spring and Summer months for this one. It is as yet unquilted.</p><p> Top right, by late summer I was in dire need of some light in my world. Not just sunlight, but illuminating light of hope. So I naturally turned to create a watercolor project. It too is unfinished and waits to be quilted.</p><p> Lower right, is mine, but created by Sir Old Man. He fulfilled my request for a bright spot to hang on the garden shed. The cardinal has long been my symbol of Hope. And now it is always in view. The wooden barn quilt block is 16'' square. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqIWTo9duL2gju21MDkill-ABaMt-3opwDSy5D1BssRBr8-gLIYChGuhKKNPJLzuYXx5gbC_eGZsi-OSw2sqrIO24FwIQ-_psq3DOvgs7XA3OrWCBiBXLRYyo4kzC4pVnKIl_EjMasAE/s2048/December+2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1582" data-original-width="2048" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqIWTo9duL2gju21MDkill-ABaMt-3opwDSy5D1BssRBr8-gLIYChGuhKKNPJLzuYXx5gbC_eGZsi-OSw2sqrIO24FwIQ-_psq3DOvgs7XA3OrWCBiBXLRYyo4kzC4pVnKIl_EjMasAE/w640-h494/December+2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> As the year ends I am working on assembling about 100 Easy Breezy blocks. These have been my leader and ender project for the year. And rather than begin something new, I plan on getting at least one top quilted. If I need to just stitch I can always make a few string blocks.....it is a good never ending project for me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> What did I learn in 2020? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> It was brought home to me to listen to my body. Diagnosed with Erosive Osteoarthritis put a halt to machine quilting this year. I found it painful, so I decided to not do any quilting for 6 months at least. I believe it has helped the severe inflammation in the wrists. I picked up crochet again to try to keep my fingers moving and nimble. That too has seemed to help. Overall, things in moderation are possible, so I think one quilt top quilted is doable:) Big smile.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Although I am home most of the time anyway, I need to get out. I need to see people. Even a ride to the drugstore, or the open produce market is a treat. My body may be breaking down, but my heart still wants relationship with others. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Small joys are all around us. You must look for them and take time to enjoy them. Fifteen minutes in the sun or just sitting on the porch to watch the blue birds.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The glorious colors of the sunset behind the trees ends the day well. The sweet small of apples in the fall, and the earthy scent of burning leaves remind me of the season's change. Full moons, and meteor showers, and wonders in the sky were seen and marveled at this year. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> And Sir Old Man has one more </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">barn quilt to finish this year.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7nlx4-Pd19jvvA0n1lYOZT43cNL0z443DEKJG1L5-FWni0LEl75LGxWByxK6Z2oNAkd4DrBI_Pl_eKsEx7mn6NvpKtyBRXyxpIkcZrfpIYfZFCMLH3Ek-egxi8sEnD-TR4aWkYLQiLY/s1618/IMG_0163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1618" data-original-width="1446" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7nlx4-Pd19jvvA0n1lYOZT43cNL0z443DEKJG1L5-FWni0LEl75LGxWByxK6Z2oNAkd4DrBI_Pl_eKsEx7mn6NvpKtyBRXyxpIkcZrfpIYfZFCMLH3Ek-egxi8sEnD-TR4aWkYLQiLY/w358-h400/IMG_0163.jpg" width="358" /></a></div><br /></div> A Double Star pattern caught his eye earlier this fall and He decided to make one to hang on the front of the house. For this one, he wanted a more rustic appearance. The wood was destressed a bit, and routed to create the look of barn wood. It is well sealed and will be under the eaves for some protection. <p></p><div>And tomorrow we do it all agin....so , come on 2021, give us the best!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy stitching. </div>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-28450826435344044952020-12-10T12:02:00.004-05:002020-12-10T12:08:29.763-05:00Other endeavors<p> Wednesday was a cooking day. Sir Old Man served as assistant chef. He wanted to act like the "behind the scenes help" that are not seen on TV cooking shows! He is an excellent stirred, grater, mixer and cleaner-upper. None of this would be possible without him. </p><p> I wanted to make chutney like we had from Honey Baked Ham....the cherry-cranberry chutney is wonderful mixed with the Unexpected cheddar cheese from Trader Joe's on crackers. It is good with ham and figured it would be good with pork too. So he went shopping for the cherries and both sweet and tart! He usually does go overboard when I make a special request. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiACCHPhIxvboIR2bWI6MBF_CfE8msFiiGesLvHwr5Io0bpL6jw2al-LcdtjA4y6phaaN_WcqmP4F05aWhl03hffL_iR5EJPekKIrbxnDQfIVlzAIvltT_DB9q-v1746X05l2FLRQj5hE/s2016/IMG_0153.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiACCHPhIxvboIR2bWI6MBF_CfE8msFiiGesLvHwr5Io0bpL6jw2al-LcdtjA4y6phaaN_WcqmP4F05aWhl03hffL_iR5EJPekKIrbxnDQfIVlzAIvltT_DB9q-v1746X05l2FLRQj5hE/s320/IMG_0153.jpg" /></a></div> I found a simple recipe on line, and tips to pit the cherries using a chopstick. Don't do the chopstick one, it did not work for us. Instead we resorted to milkshake straws! They poked out those pits nicely.....and of course, I was wearing a bit of juice when we finished.<p></p><p> We ended up with 3 of the small half pint jars--I think--and half of of the larger. Anyway, it turned out good, a little thinner than I wanted, but very good. Into the refrigerator it went.</p><p> And on the remainder of the cherries. Easiest thing to do was refrigerator cherry jam. Since they were pitted I just halved some of them and chopped up the rest. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglP5Xgx1qKqHFskFHWr5mdi4NZiBB7fc06PR6u80qREQhxy7WYs67smtz8UthLkZaBd9s2_0IggYdMA-GBrUDwQMjDnwlHZ-JcNqKaIaJuDlifcmeZtr_aqckkgCvf2ovw5GTGcbWDfgo/s1397/IMG_0152.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1343" data-original-width="1397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglP5Xgx1qKqHFskFHWr5mdi4NZiBB7fc06PR6u80qREQhxy7WYs67smtz8UthLkZaBd9s2_0IggYdMA-GBrUDwQMjDnwlHZ-JcNqKaIaJuDlifcmeZtr_aqckkgCvf2ovw5GTGcbWDfgo/s320/IMG_0152.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Just a little over 3 jars.....the little leftover was gone this morning on biscuits. A little bit tart but good.<p></p><p> Since cherries are good for inflammation and auto-immune issues, I hope to enjoy these. I get the cherry juice when we find it, but this past year there has been not to be seen.</p><p> One more thing to put together....soup for dinner. Chicken spinach with tortellini. The spinach kick I am on is in an effort to raise my iron levels. Lab test came back and looks like another deficiency has developed. I fear it is really an absorption issue rather than diet. I will see what the doctor says tomorrow.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJCE7F5ydzOhRSOo2_oTseC-W8VUoMdwAKrJpm9-5OomtXbNlBP0yTKlykvDjr4TwZhTy4FafwxdytABjGMchGns0NvU0WUOM8P_6nud03iUSjxYFMONBDB03lDfcH_esBtIttU2JTNQ/s1942/IMG_0156.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1942" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJCE7F5ydzOhRSOo2_oTseC-W8VUoMdwAKrJpm9-5OomtXbNlBP0yTKlykvDjr4TwZhTy4FafwxdytABjGMchGns0NvU0WUOM8P_6nud03iUSjxYFMONBDB03lDfcH_esBtIttU2JTNQ/s320/IMG_0156.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> One more thing....I pulled out crochet hooks, ordered a couple of cakes of cotton yarn and started crocheting this past week. My hands and fingers are stiff and hurt, but keeping them working is better than losing all use of them. I pulled out the knitting bag stand that my girlfriend, Doreen, bought me years ago. I got everything in it to begin. </p><p> Then I looked at that cake of yarn.....no way I wanted to rewind it. I found a long enough dowel to slip thru the center of it. The dowel ends rest on the side of the bag. I could pull yarn off and begin....but the dowel kept slipping off and making a mess.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgED0yw9DCm_MH8iP08eQVC8gBUg_SS0qSRlVHfICMmVQqms22h_w-aNsTT7ZQGSL6yl82YIfdV-qvpqJIZIKU_F099yTLQoJPRE2ip8vP-VPana_JTPwK3DOxZMSp5vQJDtRy9n6ly5k4/s1661/IMG_0155.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1661" data-original-width="1392" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgED0yw9DCm_MH8iP08eQVC8gBUg_SS0qSRlVHfICMmVQqms22h_w-aNsTT7ZQGSL6yl82YIfdV-qvpqJIZIKU_F099yTLQoJPRE2ip8vP-VPana_JTPwK3DOxZMSp5vQJDtRy9n6ly5k4/s320/IMG_0155.jpg" /></a></div> Enter the light bulb moment here! I hunted up 2 medium bulldog clips. One on each side of the bag. The dowel can just fit thru the eye part of the clip. I was able to happily begin crocheting and focus on the stitching rather than the dowel and yarn.<p></p><p> Crocheting for short spells is ok, and the pain is not bad. The good thing is the fingers are less stiff. So hoping I can get better tension on the stitches now. I am making a masterpiece but trying to keep moving. </p><p>Happy stitching!</p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-90271083272618404862020-12-08T14:53:00.004-05:002020-12-08T14:53:33.265-05:00Shed decor!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dCyhJMtqnWAS54WA-TB0OmrChW-gUo51ahavFk4s5Jl1ZJt8v8CVApSxeWFr9TPQTa0EXnR2oTryEeAKtmV1mmwY9TGy-dviV2VyDGNktjqCf9XQx1jiIITpRy9CmuWeLv_M5A63WPg/s1570/IMG_0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1570" data-original-width="1496" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dCyhJMtqnWAS54WA-TB0OmrChW-gUo51ahavFk4s5Jl1ZJt8v8CVApSxeWFr9TPQTa0EXnR2oTryEeAKtmV1mmwY9TGy-dviV2VyDGNktjqCf9XQx1jiIITpRy9CmuWeLv_M5A63WPg/s320/IMG_0142.jpg" /></a></div> <p></p><p> Yep, Sir Old Man came thru in time, actually ahead of time for the birthday gift. Mr. Red Cardinal was painted and sealed from the weather for his permanent location. </p><p> I tried not to nag or pester him to get it installed. I was really patient, or at least I pretended to be. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmsxbXyhLEAUmU-privEQ0cX6fQRCUvzNY0mkuR6I6wuh50jEzGa_ok0GyL0pL7P_NTAEEugxvdq7Yg4Q4O5yBMi9nsDK2_2WwgpyUKEK6P1KbMHVoPopudc4K4_-riRDQ99uYCojSnw/s1492/IMG_0145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1130" data-original-width="1492" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmsxbXyhLEAUmU-privEQ0cX6fQRCUvzNY0mkuR6I6wuh50jEzGa_ok0GyL0pL7P_NTAEEugxvdq7Yg4Q4O5yBMi9nsDK2_2WwgpyUKEK6P1KbMHVoPopudc4K4_-riRDQ99uYCojSnw/w400-h303/IMG_0145.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p> The barn sign was added to the newly painted garden shed. The perfect finishing touch to add a bit of a bright spot to the shed. I love glancing thru the window of the sun room or the sewing room and seeing the bright red. Makes me smile.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9rjWB-0rP5mmuj2OBCbcMQumBM36U1RR-Il1sx_iz5CaOhkDQ3Nqt6G3wGeSuTdg-IO58LuayqKe7iJGPgyGOCLQRqY94wa0yokZ77Jd-tN9GSf6v5_ESjT3dBp7nN3xmxNybRIKX0Y/s1809/IMG_0147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="1809" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9rjWB-0rP5mmuj2OBCbcMQumBM36U1RR-Il1sx_iz5CaOhkDQ3Nqt6G3wGeSuTdg-IO58LuayqKe7iJGPgyGOCLQRqY94wa0yokZ77Jd-tN9GSf6v5_ESjT3dBp7nN3xmxNybRIKX0Y/w400-h296/IMG_0147.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p> No current finish to share, but these are a few of the wall hangings I shared with my Bible study group today. And spent time telling the stories that went with them. </p><div><br /></div> <div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenXs5EVZqfd06NtZRx_ROdZs9hF1t0zHSEnbNhumjEnDSunq7a8PTcWteGs3cMluPp49X5IaJ0D1rvM8Nu6mXvUoe3nrjr0MJ_oj6Zq3AP4PHG4Jqia1hwwtpAY2d1ipLchWsbrA7_7Y/s1697/Feb+2012+001-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1697" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenXs5EVZqfd06NtZRx_ROdZs9hF1t0zHSEnbNhumjEnDSunq7a8PTcWteGs3cMluPp49X5IaJ0D1rvM8Nu6mXvUoe3nrjr0MJ_oj6Zq3AP4PHG4Jqia1hwwtpAY2d1ipLchWsbrA7_7Y/s320/Feb+2012+001-001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </div><div> I also shared this one...Higher Hope. </div><div>I love the jewel tones and how rich the colors become like stained glass in a cathedral. And it is time to rehang it in the sunroom, as I love the full colors in it during the winter months. </div><div><br /></div><div> <br /> I put aside the collage piece as I was frustrated with it. Maybe in a month or two I will try again. I have the continuing leader and ender blocks to sew and the latest watercolor is pressed. Enough for now. Happy stitching.</div>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-5355765608942591202020-11-29T09:32:00.005-05:002020-11-29T09:32:54.494-05:00Seasons changing<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXX6bD2g0IMNCzpKdpVaHX_7R_ci6SWlpgVcSPpby2-cKBaRqmHFr82EY2PLiJ1cleWsDDu-E2-3PRm7B_Er1cy5I_bZimRHBNogyRxbJCIyxYE7ZmaTfZYtgISbUdAL7pD0rBxas_lI/s1464/IMG_0136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="1464" height="349" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXX6bD2g0IMNCzpKdpVaHX_7R_ci6SWlpgVcSPpby2-cKBaRqmHFr82EY2PLiJ1cleWsDDu-E2-3PRm7B_Er1cy5I_bZimRHBNogyRxbJCIyxYE7ZmaTfZYtgISbUdAL7pD0rBxas_lI/w375-h349/IMG_0136.jpg" width="375" /></a></div> The last of the autumn leaves and the first Christmas wreath to go up on the day after Thanksgiving. That's a good mix.<p></p><p> The shed turned out very nice after Sir Old Man finished up the painting and trim repair. I have a request in for a barn quilt sign to hang on the left hand side of the window. With a birthday and Christmas coming up fast, I hope he can get it made for me. :)</p><p>Our weather for the last month has been full of wet and rainy days, and multiple low pressure systems, so my time in the sewing room has been short. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCTutC3w3J2j_X9r2Ysc87B7596Kl77u0ShC3K9izy6vToO5hv2Chnga9FknFHIO4xGfLEmdpZZX4ndVa2TBxvwl4iDopaYkti2XLgxjheERWBq4LwtgN9mmP1dwJeIQIpcpNVUiUt5A/s1160/IMG_0124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="818" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCTutC3w3J2j_X9r2Ysc87B7596Kl77u0ShC3K9izy6vToO5hv2Chnga9FknFHIO4xGfLEmdpZZX4ndVa2TBxvwl4iDopaYkti2XLgxjheERWBq4LwtgN9mmP1dwJeIQIpcpNVUiUt5A/w283-h400/IMG_0124.jpg" width="283" /></a></div> <p></p><p> Instead of cutting or piecing, I used up some squares already cut for a new watercolor design. A transitional design maybe that is in direct opposite values. </p><p> I normally could pull this project together in a few days.....ha! Over the course of a month, I have it to the just sewn and pressed stage. Such is life now....slower, much slower. I am hoping to get this and the spool top prepared for quilting soon....very soon. </p><p> The Easy Breezy blocks are languishing in a project box. So I may need to work a bit on them as well as the hourglass blocks. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwJEg3V67hIczAoJMy2BWFuHHp0fN0pl2XoDSCh6tAB9XxmAYX7BzrirY4UTi-udrnHqaIlfAxU4qZ-mqCet82Z0uJORTrT9gjxk4inNwjEHul1vZXm-mPPcNt0X-QOh3xiHGdgJi_zU/s1759/IMG_0131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1759" data-original-width="1362" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwJEg3V67hIczAoJMy2BWFuHHp0fN0pl2XoDSCh6tAB9XxmAYX7BzrirY4UTi-udrnHqaIlfAxU4qZ-mqCet82Z0uJORTrT9gjxk4inNwjEHul1vZXm-mPPcNt0X-QOh3xiHGdgJi_zU/s320/IMG_0131.jpg" /></a> </p>I attempted a collage project after an on line class. It looks good here.....but those tiny pieces are just fused and there is probably no way to really secure them by machine. Finishing this one as a fused project, not sewn, just for a test is probably the path I will take. If I have a wall hanging, I want to be able to wash it at some point. But I picked up some tips and pointers, so I count it as good. Collage is fun, but probably too tiny and fussy for me to do much with it. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> And that has pretty much been my month! Facing December which starts the round of labs and doctors visits.....fun. Until later, happy stitching.</p><p><br /></p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-6718198255398297252020-11-03T11:33:00.000-05:002020-11-03T11:33:24.339-05:00Recycle those signs again and update.<p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am re-recycling part of an old post. Right now is the time to replenish your stash of yard signs. Clean up the landscape and put those signs to good use.</span></p><h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.4px;"> </span></h3><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-971958577063850625" itemprop="articleBody" style="line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 820px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="background-color: white; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 17.248px;"><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><i><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;">Mini-bolts!</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 17.248px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeiNjwk97YBZ_aRXxrO-OYX1UyBLDt_57ZAHvrWnd9p8cyB-Q3PQyd6FoDBp7PzYPB0YyZVdhirQtMDGudNBrfzhMrhdTo0Z8fkcgqyfYv1u4RRhJoGoiiz0DJ4JQ9tHTHTRxBb7qrlpF/s1600/P1010005.JPG" style="clear: right; color: #474747; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeiNjwk97YBZ_aRXxrO-OYX1UyBLDt_57ZAHvrWnd9p8cyB-Q3PQyd6FoDBp7PzYPB0YyZVdhirQtMDGudNBrfzhMrhdTo0Z8fkcgqyfYv1u4RRhJoGoiiz0DJ4JQ9tHTHTRxBb7qrlpF/s320/P1010005.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.098) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></span></a><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"> About 4 years ago, I began using the mini-bolts for storage. When I first began this, I was using a thin plastic insert. Later I switched to using foam core board. The foam core can be purchased at the Dollar Store in the 2 foot by 3 foot size usually. I cut the size-- that works best for me-- 11" to 12" high by 8" wide. It's easy to cut with a craft knife. I often end up with smaller sections of the boards and they work great for shorter cuts--- those under a yard. </span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;">Today, I am even more frugal.....I use old yard campaign signs or yard signs of any kind that I find....like house for sale, or other advertising. They get knocked down or the wires rust out. I collect them, wash them up, and cut to the size I like. I'm saving the land fill (if they would ever make it there) and keeping my dollars for fabric and thread. </span></div><div style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.4px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUFGK43JKEfAwQOY_HioYYbFhs6O27am5UYlpOZyNFenDtpTB2E5im8JcIM8hoaSg56U-dak5IYk89ctPaRX7j_JGo5-7kzNG2J2HRVrk78MC0IlWjGFMsf7_8D6eSn4OY2phd3hNrprk3/s1600/P1010008.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #474747; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUFGK43JKEfAwQOY_HioYYbFhs6O27am5UYlpOZyNFenDtpTB2E5im8JcIM8hoaSg56U-dak5IYk89ctPaRX7j_JGo5-7kzNG2J2HRVrk78MC0IlWjGFMsf7_8D6eSn4OY2phd3hNrprk3/s400/P1010008.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" /></span></a></div><div style="font-size: 15.4px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"> Fabric is folded just like it comes off the bolt. Then one more fold---bringing the folded side over to match the selvedge edge. Roll it up and pin the end. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: inherit;"> The mini-bolts make it easy to see what I have to work with. I am known to be pretty messy and scattered, so this really helps me neater. And what fun to shop your own fabric store in your stash closet.</span></div></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 15.2px; line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And one more idea.....portable design boards. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuul_kNprXfENXZKaywEqWRvZCE0gYRmBf5dXWgkHoz8-UmC9J_9axBFeQCgT5NZMhUA2Il6vAFgNP5UCqpohzVZH-qFOS0xZxqXHZwnQDB6eRF_pguEkWFc06S3YKzrgVPIvRqWacBPel/s1600/P1010023.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #474747; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuul_kNprXfENXZKaywEqWRvZCE0gYRmBf5dXWgkHoz8-UmC9J_9axBFeQCgT5NZMhUA2Il6vAFgNP5UCqpohzVZH-qFOS0xZxqXHZwnQDB6eRF_pguEkWFc06S3YKzrgVPIvRqWacBPel/s200/P1010023.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I use old yard signs. This one is the plastic type </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">of corrugated sign. I cut mine to 12'' by 16'', </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">along with a layer of batting and muslin about </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> 1 1/2'' larger on all sides. Grab the glue stick......<br /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QVHOs5VSDPJKHISnr892iyM5w0jb5XgEiJOTkno3TQVrwnJSULQR9kIxOQD79qqa6MGqJqpBQnGsagsgsW6mjzrAr1e1TjG8uVa13XgBNM0OCI8_j8jLIbXALSIFXnAWs-koPv82A3-G/s1600/P1010024.JPG" style="clear: right; color: #474747; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QVHOs5VSDPJKHISnr892iyM5w0jb5XgEiJOTkno3TQVrwnJSULQR9kIxOQD79qqa6MGqJqpBQnGsagsgsW6mjzrAr1e1TjG8uVa13XgBNM0OCI8_j8jLIbXALSIFXnAWs-koPv82A3-G/s320/P1010024.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" />I use the glue stick for a temporary hold. Run the glue stick along the edge of the board and fold the fabric over. Press down with finger tips.<br /><br /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgdmU4rl8br5efedg-CjfKaLAt9jHZ3tW3jEiZU8FTgXFNPgPsjF5uOXKYL8J3Rk3NQBG2_m7CY6NFn6MD1BBl0p40HtyF7rlSGSRaD-2YcbljLONLAZx8cyqs_jgUUZSavc-85Np91iS/s1600/P1010025.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #474747; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgdmU4rl8br5efedg-CjfKaLAt9jHZ3tW3jEiZU8FTgXFNPgPsjF5uOXKYL8J3Rk3NQBG2_m7CY6NFn6MD1BBl0p40HtyF7rlSGSRaD-2YcbljLONLAZx8cyqs_jgUUZSavc-85Np91iS/w250-h260/P1010025.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="250" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" />Remember the colorful duct tape? </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found a good use for it here. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Pull off a piece long enough for the side.</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Lay the covered board face down onto the tape. Put the tape around the edge and press down </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">onto the back covering the edge of </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the fabric. I trimmed the ends </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">of the tape so that they were flush with the ends.</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqbxpoIZlkMwtLoZOPIWa3AUpIRGhsRRG7DafZOUnRMS3foxhrO4-5SyUalxqvCQiPsQN4aG2BgrxhU99ru3UZH_ucCd7kG81bQAk1yE-P7-uvwS2kK1RC850hyMJk6H9DYi0sdkv8EOQ/s1600/P1010027.JPG" style="color: #474747; display: inline !important; font-size: 15.4px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqbxpoIZlkMwtLoZOPIWa3AUpIRGhsRRG7DafZOUnRMS3foxhrO4-5SyUalxqvCQiPsQN4aG2BgrxhU99ru3UZH_ucCd7kG81bQAk1yE-P7-uvwS2kK1RC850hyMJk6H9DYi0sdkv8EOQ/w200-h154/P1010027.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.4px;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px;"> </span>Done! A small work surface that</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> easily moves from sewing table </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">to ironing board....safely.<br /><br style="font-size: 15.4px;" /><br /> What a time around here......we endured a hurricane, Halloween, and a blue moon,</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">and a time change. Sir Old Man had a skin cancer removed from his nose and is </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">healing. One more to go and then we see if he needs the plastic surgery. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYjjIiHPZfZW4k6uITYWop1xw1BxIkfd0opm0Q1i9DajSFlkZo4YlNYFpWTU-AaAd_-8xfyM3ixiUgjXRbc14-lmAqQx_gL0iqISkDUE0b-h6VctlNetgSvUZ0rrGdovZARfXTCDqWbbQ/s1794/IMG_0121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1794" data-original-width="1069" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYjjIiHPZfZW4k6uITYWop1xw1BxIkfd0opm0Q1i9DajSFlkZo4YlNYFpWTU-AaAd_-8xfyM3ixiUgjXRbc14-lmAqQx_gL0iqISkDUE0b-h6VctlNetgSvUZ0rrGdovZARfXTCDqWbbQ/w239-h400/IMG_0121.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I survived the stress level by sewing</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> units and rows together......to make a top </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">with borders out of the spool blocks!</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> This is about 1/4 view of the top.</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I had 3 extra spool blocks and hated to throw them into </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the orphan box of blocks. Instead I used them to</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">extend the pattern to the outer border by inserting them</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">when I joined strips. I also used up all the blue fabric for </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">that border. <br /> </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp8VfU-xHGv2YUxj-KO9Z6NzU_8wC5PtOg1SquNwIW7iiGsV9WxA7lyMtZACxURY45iKIQEX9lQd7UtClnpBs_vD6whU-xT6LNjtAT-cDlsfqHlvERm7B4WFtpUUSqJjwhiTccsJoSb4/s1461/IMG_0122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="1459" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVp8VfU-xHGv2YUxj-KO9Z6NzU_8wC5PtOg1SquNwIW7iiGsV9WxA7lyMtZACxURY45iKIQEX9lQd7UtClnpBs_vD6whU-xT6LNjtAT-cDlsfqHlvERm7B4WFtpUUSqJjwhiTccsJoSb4/w200-h200/IMG_0122.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I continued making the hourglass blocks. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> These are ready to be trimmed up. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And I sorted, and sorted, and sorted 2'' squares</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">that I have been throwing into a box!</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have a new assortment of floral 2'' squares</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">to work with from my cutting block pieces. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found some inspiration and think it is time to return</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">to working with them for a while. So if I don't</span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">surface for a bit, that is where I will be. </span></div><div style="line-height: 17.248px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy stitching. <br /><br /> </span></div></div></div>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-8506089978080101312020-10-21T13:31:00.001-04:002020-10-21T13:31:30.011-04:00Little progress on the spool blocks<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ43ranLMO47a-vO0oFSGB-G7mJFCEVCYtLAiF9WnOeBt0huuQHb4ZkHXxp9tdVH88FIochg9fZhZHLEyaY0vuOe_g-HZ7rEIWF3vCIcG7tApPvp4SLPWgLUbBwyfodDB4vHyK0CguQU/s1468/IMG_0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1214" data-original-width="1468" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ43ranLMO47a-vO0oFSGB-G7mJFCEVCYtLAiF9WnOeBt0huuQHb4ZkHXxp9tdVH88FIochg9fZhZHLEyaY0vuOe_g-HZ7rEIWF3vCIcG7tApPvp4SLPWgLUbBwyfodDB4vHyK0CguQU/w357-h296/IMG_0114.jpg" width="357" /></a></div> <p></p><p> I finally decided I had enough spool blocks. I am beginning to join the rows. I did the arrange and re-arrange thing on the design wall, got tired of it, and just began to sew. When it is so scrappy, you can spend a decade moving things around to make it perfect. Not happening here..... I just need to see some progress here.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-SUbLopxqJGh3gJctO8m_y0xuuYD9JBDtfs3miC5qH9NxpIwc0bcKac91lgPjzGxZCEzxrixlj7D5-Yvx8QiW53zfmSqYAn026OWFrRmaRy5iJ5lR7iVplc-pKrWdFGTVsgPkvxunPg/s1626/IMG_0116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1626" data-original-width="1484" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-SUbLopxqJGh3gJctO8m_y0xuuYD9JBDtfs3miC5qH9NxpIwc0bcKac91lgPjzGxZCEzxrixlj7D5-Yvx8QiW53zfmSqYAn026OWFrRmaRy5iJ5lR7iVplc-pKrWdFGTVsgPkvxunPg/w293-h320/IMG_0116.jpg" width="293" /></a></div> And the leader and ender project continues. For every 2 blocks I made of the spools, I put together one of the Easy/Breezy blocks. I have a stack of them already. So they will continue to be my L/E while I am putting together the hourglass blocks. <p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36vNR_wi5bmeOnPhe_T2wAiHh7SaPwCPlIVAtfXdOwGLFAp-IzgBn80rFypNHh3IFgIF1MIT6u2wSbIB9wyeLg8xhpLt8iBMCEPy0PbnMYE6FUpTEE3xPo9xbGlCQlJ6O07pLMT10I6s/s1674/IMG_0117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1674" data-original-width="1085" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36vNR_wi5bmeOnPhe_T2wAiHh7SaPwCPlIVAtfXdOwGLFAp-IzgBn80rFypNHh3IFgIF1MIT6u2wSbIB9wyeLg8xhpLt8iBMCEPy0PbnMYE6FUpTEE3xPo9xbGlCQlJ6O07pLMT10I6s/s320/IMG_0117.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div> A few of the hourglass blocks from this week. Again I am working very scrappy because I am using whatever I find in my bin. I will plan my placement a little bit with this in time to get some nice dark pinwheels to appear in the block on point. <div> FYI....I am beginning with 5'' squares sewn on diagonal. The hourglass block shown here are 4'' unfinished. <br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> We took a day trip to NC for apples and stopped for lunch. Actually, it was the first time to eat out in 7 months! What a treat! The fall colors were appearing. This year of 2020 has altered my perspective of so much. It was nice to be somewhere other than here for a few hours. </div><div> </div><div> Days have warmed back up for the next week, night are cool. I keep checking on the large hickory tree out front. It has the most glorious golden yellow when our leaves hit the peak. Otherwise, life is much the same. </div><div>Happy stitching. </div></div>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-30608249473912853222020-10-09T06:30:00.001-04:002020-10-09T06:30:05.335-04:00And I found another <p> Did you read the post at Cluck Cluck Sew? Click <a href="https://cluckclucksew.com/2020/10/an-hourglass-pattern-and-an-hourglass-a-day.html" target="_blank">here for <b>the post</b> and her great tutorial and pattern for an Hourglass project. </a> I loved the idea to make a set of hour glass blocks each day. Keep it easy, make it fun. It reminded me of the Quilty 365 Circles project from a few years ago, which I really enjoyed making. So I thought I could add it to the list of on-going projects. </p><p> And then I discovered these large HST units! A large stack already begun for a similar pattern. They will be easy enough to turn into hourglass blocks. </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6afSUrKXmMB0Z0FaSu3i84fkctUHolop9darkfpMJ5FnsaurTFh9Rl1eDpWUJgQR01-5rKnDAZzKUNQfQy48BMbGm-FxrmbGAhqAHHiT0EJuZaIrey5vzZq-vMpfsy1dQcLIigu7lrMI/s1860/IMG_0109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1860" data-original-width="1308" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6afSUrKXmMB0Z0FaSu3i84fkctUHolop9darkfpMJ5FnsaurTFh9Rl1eDpWUJgQR01-5rKnDAZzKUNQfQy48BMbGm-FxrmbGAhqAHHiT0EJuZaIrey5vzZq-vMpfsy1dQcLIigu7lrMI/w281-h400/IMG_0109.jpg" width="281" /></a></div><p></p></blockquote><p> All of the units, pattern sheets, and a stack of paired squares ready to sew went into another bin. It seems you can never have enough of those bins. I need to decide or figure out how I want to proceed, which pattern to go on with. The choice is between the Scrappy Pinwheel idea or the hourglass a day idea. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi4-OgdFL061R6ZCEOAffvKq6yyvL3MCChhY1LAirtF3YP2tF3TJ5JyIdR8ORql1gQyUFPblS1PctAqtBONc_SEhrnHD-UxEePB9nAyvtrWiY0y9KUpHU0xecXSnUIMJB0xxSRDtJMMQ/s2016/IMG_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi4-OgdFL061R6ZCEOAffvKq6yyvL3MCChhY1LAirtF3YP2tF3TJ5JyIdR8ORql1gQyUFPblS1PctAqtBONc_SEhrnHD-UxEePB9nAyvtrWiY0y9KUpHU0xecXSnUIMJB0xxSRDtJMMQ/w300-h400/IMG_0108.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> I will figure out which by the time the spool blocks are finished up. <p></p><p>To up-date the vision eye problem . I tried to reply to all who commented, but in case I missed you. The doctor did several scans, and such on both eyes. What I thought was the "good eye" now is showing damage to the retina from the lack of B-12 from 4 years ago. The optic nerve appears stable with no damage, but a small cataract is growing. So that leaves me in a wait and see mode. I return in 4 months. In the meantime, I am adjusting and finding ways to compensate for the blurry and often triple vision aspect of it all. </p><p> It takes intense concentration to do most things, like read a recipe. For dinner last night I made a new recipe and glanced at the time and temp. I saw "200 minutes at 3500 degrees".......a tilt of the head and a second look corrected that. So it is what it is.....please bear with me when I rant. Otherwise, life is good. Happy stitching. </p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-26483664693233933592020-10-05T12:10:00.000-04:002020-10-05T12:10:38.933-04:00Catching Up<p> Fall arrived while I've been quiet. Sir Old Man finished painting the shed and it looks really nice. I spent one day digging out fall wall hangings and table runners.....and washing those that came down. I changed out the mini to this pineapple, which is a favorite of mine. I like the variation in textures from the quilting too. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGoeHMv769-tp2U9H20XuK_ab8Af1OWsTsyAVrH6gzQ46IoLOwUJoEeUtD0DTabXImaArr7gwnN8fU8r9J05aA0QH_tqIv7ajE1zS3HgzrSAFPwOoCx1oGyhIwbMaXKz9HZiYSzm8yiP4/s1567/IMG_0107.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1567" data-original-width="1461" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGoeHMv769-tp2U9H20XuK_ab8Af1OWsTsyAVrH6gzQ46IoLOwUJoEeUtD0DTabXImaArr7gwnN8fU8r9J05aA0QH_tqIv7ajE1zS3HgzrSAFPwOoCx1oGyhIwbMaXKz9HZiYSzm8yiP4/s320/IMG_0107.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div> I posted about the problem with my hands and wrists which slowed me down. The season change and a few clear days with no rain etc. helped that. So I managed to sew a little bit for a few days. Some spool blocks and the leader and ender, Easy breezy. I even ordered some storage boxes/bins for projects. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsVkYpbJd5-2mFuept-AafIzhLV_YCwe-tsVKv4j7k-RD5-0QvY4d_IcaVn3xrmEmyEvWSo90fqFruImURr-PTE04rtfYMcWBU1_F-P-UV3LddXYWIsGrW__2Wcv7UgMV-OEqc7bbD_s/s2016/IMG_0105.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsVkYpbJd5-2mFuept-AafIzhLV_YCwe-tsVKv4j7k-RD5-0QvY4d_IcaVn3xrmEmyEvWSo90fqFruImURr-PTE04rtfYMcWBU1_F-P-UV3LddXYWIsGrW__2Wcv7UgMV-OEqc7bbD_s/s320/IMG_0105.jpg" /></a></div><br /> They were from Amazon, and a bit bigger than I thought. At just over 3'' high they are more than enough for the spool blocks. Then I started stacking the leader ender blocks and.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVs05Us-TyiPkhH-R0g8H3I5fXA6Z_r6s-BKBGjXIXMBUvw7oTFqxfF2BuVI-im0AFNlZwLW6Jx5UAg8A8DtkAKq91h24XF8pdxQsUoToKzEPOgOEXZtkVryAZVgwGzZRfMPoOJsteCc/s1843/IMG_0106.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1843" data-original-width="1280" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVs05Us-TyiPkhH-R0g8H3I5fXA6Z_r6s-BKBGjXIXMBUvw7oTFqxfF2BuVI-im0AFNlZwLW6Jx5UAg8A8DtkAKq91h24XF8pdxQsUoToKzEPOgOEXZtkVryAZVgwGzZRfMPoOJsteCc/w247-h356/IMG_0106.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><br /> Ok, I need the depth! And I then filled one up with string blocks than were in a shoe box and rumpled. So they got ironed and given a new bin. </div><div> </div><div> I thought I was making headway, until I woke up one morning about 2 weeks ago with a very red, and swollen left eye. My good eye, not marred by the lack of B-12. So off to the doctor. He says it was a ruptured vessel between the tissue layers. Could be from trauma or spontaneous. Give it a few days to improve. </div><div> So tomorrow I return for another exam and check. The redness is gone, but the vision is worse. For example, we went out over the weekend to view the full moon and Mars. I told Sir Old Man that I saw three dots, or Mars. Which one is the real one? Yep, I see triple images at certain angles. I sure hope the doctor gives me a better explanation or I am searching for a new ophthalmologist. </div><div><br /></div><div> So I have been quiet here, reading posts and keeping up as best I can. Sewing time is limited to prevent eye strain, neck strain , and general irritation. I did begin joining the spool blocks into sets of 4 and seeing how they looked on the design wall. </div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE9ExqkHScNhaOcQxmBnO0mf-pjWUYqfG7dnwK7NIFInsmGpWQz3e14xdeELQhJUEAlHCZcEeXXLSSS0J9-tqjJeYGaZv9lJbBDYdH878O2NGnV46DPdN8DHcxZdQdtnPB5eCuaiQR6U/s1546/IMG_0104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1546" data-original-width="1195" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE9ExqkHScNhaOcQxmBnO0mf-pjWUYqfG7dnwK7NIFInsmGpWQz3e14xdeELQhJUEAlHCZcEeXXLSSS0J9-tqjJeYGaZv9lJbBDYdH878O2NGnV46DPdN8DHcxZdQdtnPB5eCuaiQR6U/w308-h400/IMG_0104.jpg" width="308" /></a></div></div></blockquote><p> Does anyone think blogger complaint department ever read our feed back? Do they ever read any posts to see how they look? This thing is so awful to use. Just ranting about the useless new features that make writing a post difficult. Another example of fixing what isn't broken.</p><p> Our mornings have been quite cool and crisp. Time to go pick up some apples from the farm, and a good time for a road trip to view the leaves. Maybe next week. Happy stitching. </p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-75190106453035362552020-09-15T08:48:00.000-04:002020-09-15T08:48:06.334-04:00New addition<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="1987" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCSER9pibjStLR2cucVR-g_UHy3VO3HBZF78uEDpYwlGxLxCMh_zijNyl0YHza0KPEBg2VpF7ymMX_QbObCk0gCNooDsfPeKV3hH6j84QEB2j5Px8M1kWCd8GZCLBN5RgKM4zzcVLpNc/w489-h311/IMG_0094.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="489" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My small gallery<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p> </p><p> I have a small gallery in the office where I display all types of artwork, from cards, to sketches, to photos. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> And the mail bought a new addition yesterday. <a href="https://blog.geneblack.com/2020/09/some-quilt-piecing-and-some-painting.html" target="_blank"><b>Gene has been sharing</b> </a>his experimenting with watercolor painting recently. He wasn't happy with one of his first attempts.....but I was! I loved it. So this wonderful artist sent me his practice piece to have and enjoy! </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSfG-xuNigRdGmU0ESWmpIhTlhSSxduCyi0WQj6S2SPMN0sKMDzvW8um3DtQcRK-oTkCFSNFJhQfJw8qrxgH-UmXQkMSTL-m9t0M2O9XODIpmEp7oQ4UGvWK_3oYKro7WKYcvKpjNz8U/s1802/IMG_0093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1802" data-original-width="1408" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSfG-xuNigRdGmU0ESWmpIhTlhSSxduCyi0WQj6S2SPMN0sKMDzvW8um3DtQcRK-oTkCFSNFJhQfJw8qrxgH-UmXQkMSTL-m9t0M2O9XODIpmEp7oQ4UGvWK_3oYKro7WKYcvKpjNz8U/w295-h378/IMG_0093.jpg" width="295" /></a></div></blockquote></blockquote><p></p><p> I have to search for another small easel for displaying it. So, thanks, Gene, I am so pleased to have it. </p><p> This is new Blogger post....isn't it awful to control? </p><p>Have a great stitching day anyway!</p><p><br /></p>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-66364210330074439502020-09-12T06:30:00.000-04:002020-09-12T06:30:06.630-04:00Making spool blocks After such a nice holiday weekend here, at least weather wise, I went back to the sewing room today for a while. The humidity returned and the temps went up again. We did enjoy about 4 days of cooler temps and Sir Old Man was motivated to begin painting the garden shed....under my supervision of course. That part he wasn't crazy about, but he is such a good sport that he did not complain. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwvcn3aQQkMk28Y2GrRNMnXgXWJcvyinE4q1eL54ORhqVh0thvBWNy215ZjguFM5l77Dgswsg4cULJuzxWhMQOiQIxim6GtwGOUAClGYXa9_3e0LKaKSmY0c_UWn5sTc1RGm_Jcml50c/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1262" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwvcn3aQQkMk28Y2GrRNMnXgXWJcvyinE4q1eL54ORhqVh0thvBWNy215ZjguFM5l77Dgswsg4cULJuzxWhMQOiQIxim6GtwGOUAClGYXa9_3e0LKaKSmY0c_UWn5sTc1RGm_Jcml50c/s320/IMG_0078.jpg" width="252" /></a> I had a nice stack of spool blocks to press and trim. Once I worked thru the pile I ended up with 67 finished blocks!<br />
To review the summer project: Now, they are only 5'' at this point. I have a mix of light spools and dark background, and dark spools on a light background. Very scrappy and pulled from my 2'' strip collections. Florals, tonals, batiks, and mixed patterns..... I am using a big span of styles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGVdUF1dQYeMAOpCKV7OatAaICeBilNuY7m7HV-Y0TI6_aw9yyNXe1ZR1NtqLKldqBiYwlpzwoAVTsIWXT3A2lDN1iny5IbR3GJi7RVWkrX7KqSrogG-oRyZWJMLQk0LRKgc3XVTd2KM/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="1376" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGVdUF1dQYeMAOpCKV7OatAaICeBilNuY7m7HV-Y0TI6_aw9yyNXe1ZR1NtqLKldqBiYwlpzwoAVTsIWXT3A2lDN1iny5IbR3GJi7RVWkrX7KqSrogG-oRyZWJMLQk0LRKgc3XVTd2KM/s320/IMG_0088.jpg" width="311" /></a> <br />
So today, I am wondering if I need to begin working them into 4-unit blocks. LOL....already I see ones I need to flip. So I know I need to work the small blocks into larger ones.<br />
This layout is 4 dark background blocks together on the upper left. Next and to the right would be a large block of 4 with light backgrounds.<br />
The bottom group on the right got turned around wrong....very wrong. That's okay, nothing is joined yet. <br />
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I have looked at lots of layouts with spool blocks. And I like this spinning spools version the best. My second question is whether I just mix them up and let things fall where they may. I am fearful of doing that for the whole top as it will be confusing and not have any focus at all. I may toss a few hodge-podge blocks into a little more planned version. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lAp2fgw2b22Re8NVA7nMEEeBvDTrenxNbBdJeZWxzREY4eoF7yNvoCJzAAY3N6qwBupqLfw-y04AOx6X_FBzaqVAiSbJy4kZJx5aIdi0q8fUhCCaEh6eXqmVsZg249rwGrO6HJNwgY0/s1600/IMG_0090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="865" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lAp2fgw2b22Re8NVA7nMEEeBvDTrenxNbBdJeZWxzREY4eoF7yNvoCJzAAY3N6qwBupqLfw-y04AOx6X_FBzaqVAiSbJy4kZJx5aIdi0q8fUhCCaEh6eXqmVsZg249rwGrO6HJNwgY0/s320/IMG_0090.jpg" width="172" /></a> <br />
Between the spools, I am using the Easy-breezy leader and ender from Bonnie Hunter. I have about 20 of these done....these 8 blocks were pressed. This layout has all the dark going to the upper left for a diagonal layout. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXl71FJ3Pl6I46kailzOA7Ky8oLdxl1RKFto7C-zZNrsJmKYKanaKK_Se-invI8C4WW3Rm2MgRNpWTiTXUI94AabSwCKfuykN_ZjyG8gmc0uKW0_S6Xte-rOmsUWEWmj8g7tk2Xe0qIb8/s1600/IMG_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="964" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXl71FJ3Pl6I46kailzOA7Ky8oLdxl1RKFto7C-zZNrsJmKYKanaKK_Se-invI8C4WW3Rm2MgRNpWTiTXUI94AabSwCKfuykN_ZjyG8gmc0uKW0_S6Xte-rOmsUWEWmj8g7tk2Xe0qIb8/s320/IMG_0091.jpg" width="192" /></a> But what if.....I switch a few directions and form a chain. I think it will be oblivious which I will pick. I love chain effects. But this is a long term project and lots more patches to sew.<br />
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And that is it from the sewing room. <br />
Sending prayers to those facing fires on the west coast, and holding our breathe that the 5 storms forming stay far away from land. 2020 is still making people notice it!<br />
Happy stitching. <br />
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<br />Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-81022606364398741732020-08-11T06:00:00.000-04:002020-08-11T06:00:02.920-04:00Mixed bag<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMN4E2GWQJdhLhr_RjTxxP0lD4KjzBF9GmYvBpnJilC6ChmzPVi46VJcj6Vd49bJndfr19XQmY-S_fi5vl-mGYiMHYWvcj9nU9BS2ll6FBw_-0nr6NgzMkzUAyg_ekDJPcV8tH9BfgfRE/s1600/IMG_0082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1441" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMN4E2GWQJdhLhr_RjTxxP0lD4KjzBF9GmYvBpnJilC6ChmzPVi46VJcj6Vd49bJndfr19XQmY-S_fi5vl-mGYiMHYWvcj9nU9BS2ll6FBw_-0nr6NgzMkzUAyg_ekDJPcV8tH9BfgfRE/s320/IMG_0082.jpg" width="288" /></a> I am continuing to piece...no pinning or quilting for now due to the pain in wrist and hands. When the grip is weak, it is better to just do random piecing. So I have a small mixed bag of blocks for projects to share.<br />
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The Easy Breezy leader and ender project from Bonnie Hunter has a few blocks completed. The small tray on the left has a good stack of sorted paired parts for blocks.I am clipping the finished ones into stacks of 10,,,,so 11 done so far.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_P9KdbbtCcYdRT78nqTqLlbRsUokxXzgaLH9Cj3HIb2NmIO2fiKlv5G-wgPiIlVGTKmzoqyq7wuvectUZceAujoNUUwrpVna_QI7kL6I-mYAz8AJtxqNxtmG9XocRBdjjqa9BoLdEJ8/s1600/IMG_0079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1459" data-original-width="1315" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_P9KdbbtCcYdRT78nqTqLlbRsUokxXzgaLH9Cj3HIb2NmIO2fiKlv5G-wgPiIlVGTKmzoqyq7wuvectUZceAujoNUUwrpVna_QI7kL6I-mYAz8AJtxqNxtmG9XocRBdjjqa9BoLdEJ8/s320/IMG_0079.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
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Bricks and Stepping Stones is a pattern also from Bonnie under the <b><a href="https://quiltville.blogspot.com/p/free-patterns.html">Free patterns here</a>.</b> This is really an unfinished leader and ender project from years back.<br />
I am using floral 2'' squares for the small four patch units. Then these are set in the corner of more solid / tonal fabrics.<br />
Bonnie's original pattern is set a bit differently into long rectangle blocks. This is just another variation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSPSIrjmk2JbSmPs73ET3RQF78TaZUBbIqy0-k9KHX_YGsut65GKQYd2s8TIBfwPXjxeeJthdwgZGgEIBAd7TwyYmZn_WcJ_f8ASRgr9ssnaa2akAOC_HOCYim7ncFtiy4QeoHtLgFS0/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1262" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSPSIrjmk2JbSmPs73ET3RQF78TaZUBbIqy0-k9KHX_YGsut65GKQYd2s8TIBfwPXjxeeJthdwgZGgEIBAd7TwyYmZn_WcJ_f8ASRgr9ssnaa2akAOC_HOCYim7ncFtiy4QeoHtLgFS0/s320/IMG_0078.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
What I am really trying to piece....5'' spool blocks....and the leader and ender units go in between sections of this one. A few blocks / triangles got a bit wonky, but they can just join the fray. I have about 30 of these to date.<br />
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I have a written list of sizes for cutting the different parts for all three of these different blocks. So obviously the same fabric will appear in spots in each of them probably.<br />
From one 2'' fabric strip I might cut a 5'' strip and 4 squares for the spool block, and also 3 1/2'' pieces for the Easy Breezy block.<br />
Then I can sit and sort and put together fabrics I like for latter piecing.<br />
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On the home front.....I got out of the house over the weekend when we ran a few errands. A quick stop at Big Lots with masks--ugh--for a new small electric chopper. I found the 3 cup size which is a bit bigger than the one that died. I should be able to use this for chopping leftover roast for enchiladas! Good thing :)<br />
Not so good to see was the massive amount of construction and changes taking place around here. They clear cut land and trees to put up homes and apartments, then will eventually plant pencil twigs to replace the old growth. Sigh. Then we saw another couple of acres cleared for a new grocery store. Fine, if they keep the shelves stocked. I guess it is the growing population moving here that is keeping our shelves slightly bare.<br />
And lastly.....bad storm a few days ago, and I remember hearing an extremely loud crack and flash. This morning Sir Old Man spotted the tallest pine in the back leaning, dying, and split at the base. Lightning hit. He is calling Lupe to take care of it. Oh, and the earthquake. LOL....yes, there was an earthquake of 5.1 in NC yesterday morning. It was felt here, but no damage seen here. More shaking on Monday morning, very light. I am thankful for that. <br />
Off to do some therapy sewing. Happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-73081225086130006952020-08-06T06:00:00.000-04:002020-08-06T06:00:03.236-04:00Out of Focus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you are like me, you are tired of being home, confined, masked, feeling bored and abandoned, and so on. Everything is just "off", mixed up and out of focus. And that is just what this quilted wall hanging is!<br />
It's not lovely, it is just sort of out of focus. It will serve as a reminder to the future about this year.<br />
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I made stacks of small string pieced blocks....about 4'' in size. Half dark to half light, or close to it maybe. Lol.<br />
I sewed until I got tired of making them. That took about 2 months. Surely this will be over by summer.<br />
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I started piecing them together. I mean I wanted it finished and done, by the time all was right in the world. Row by row...... June came and things were getting worse. Rows joined and stitched into a top. Then it was hot and July. The world was hotter and the virus spread even faster. Surely next month would be better.<br />
Well, August arrived, I finally gave in and quilted this thing. Quilted with swirling loops in an all over pattern. Things are not much better. Little improvement to note. Just out of focus.<br />
Out of Focus wall hanging.....about 30'' by 40'', string blocks in offset barn raising pattern.<br />
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This year has been slow fast time for me. Long slow days, but the weeks/months have flown by. It's Monday, and then mid-week, and the weekend comes again. Repeat....over and again. <br />
I have a hard time believing it is August already. Even more distressed that this ugly monster is still playing havoc in our lives, to say nothing about the other stuff going on. <br />
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I have several piecing things going on, like the latest leader and ender, a few spool blocks, and some 4 patch units. They are more random rather than productive. They suit my pensive mood for now. The faux madras design is on the design wall waiting to be pinned. The backing arrived this week. It can wait a little while longer.....no one is going anywhere. <br />
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2020 was to be a year of perfect vision.....and here I am Out of Focus.<br />
Happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-396705353576672492020-07-22T07:00:00.000-04:002020-07-22T07:00:08.423-04:00Pin cushions again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aCS5Y11VerK1481jzJqbTOfDKDkuMah4VGjaX3MqJlltOI59z2_YQapcqDUjl3h15bOGQlKPKkyvRRAKlMM3huy18DyHi6uKSbjrX__RXkpdMuxI4aHzhJaI0Kk8IeiTJSbVh5G-Jf4/s1600/IMG_0060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1377" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aCS5Y11VerK1481jzJqbTOfDKDkuMah4VGjaX3MqJlltOI59z2_YQapcqDUjl3h15bOGQlKPKkyvRRAKlMM3huy18DyHi6uKSbjrX__RXkpdMuxI4aHzhJaI0Kk8IeiTJSbVh5G-Jf4/s320/IMG_0060.jpg" width="274" /></a><br />
This is the last batch for now, anyway.<br />
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The first 3 are fairly plain ones. The two on the left used part of a damaged linen doily I first showed. Some machine quilting on them. On the others I made I did not add machine quilting. Vintage crochet trim on the one on the right.<br />
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A small one with a bluebird print with lace and a bird motif added. It's about 3'' square. A favorite!<br />
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The one is front turned out really nice. The print featured butterflies on tan and I just framed one of them with fabrics and lace. It's about 6'' long.<br />
The larger one on the right is about 5'' square.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K8NHuD2Zu6muPabwjTSgxWWzvug4nvh3Pn2dFp9QU5KwUbHiNb5nl_dI_R_ZJmpOwWpeMmU0F8OK2CTrK40cVQkxoIL6ZrVGQIAkCV1dOU4FtcjdG5x97TVC-QB1azuUEJeetcMwZwE/s1600/IMG_0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1257" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K8NHuD2Zu6muPabwjTSgxWWzvug4nvh3Pn2dFp9QU5KwUbHiNb5nl_dI_R_ZJmpOwWpeMmU0F8OK2CTrK40cVQkxoIL6ZrVGQIAkCV1dOU4FtcjdG5x97TVC-QB1azuUEJeetcMwZwE/s320/IMG_0056.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
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I had several emails with questions about the technique. First I was inspired by <b><a href="http://www.kellyclinequilting.com/">Kelly Cline and her vintage linen pincushions.</a> </b><br />
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I figured out what way worked for me.<br />
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<li>I used batting as my foundation to attach fabric and lace in crazy patch technique.</li>
<li>I added lace as I went and motif or special bits when foundation was covered. </li>
<li> My filling is crushed walnuts shells purchased from Amazon. </li>
<li> I fill thru the back rather than in the side seam....see photo. It is easier to whip stitch the opening on the back for me. </li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpaaL70mmCdKn_erJjILhz1AAJ3jh6JBiQdWUAmxcgQvZ1UVu0ZYxW7XDT3689ycKvS_1MOz3Bk1TlnUI2gSzZVg7rCiu8eTRVakI81Lj3yziqtZCOXb8UMpKUlBk7N5bkxQCxP3WSlUA/s1600/IMG_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1278" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpaaL70mmCdKn_erJjILhz1AAJ3jh6JBiQdWUAmxcgQvZ1UVu0ZYxW7XDT3689ycKvS_1MOz3Bk1TlnUI2gSzZVg7rCiu8eTRVakI81Lj3yziqtZCOXb8UMpKUlBk7N5bkxQCxP3WSlUA/s320/IMG_0065.jpg" width="255" /></a> I am not selling them. I will sell lace and trims...contact me via email if interested. <br />
I plan on donating these to the quilt guild's boutique for next year's show. So I have plenty of time to make a few more....such fun.<br />
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I also uncovered a small dresser scarf that I embroidered way back when......I guess I was in my teens when my neighbor, Betty, taught me to embroider. She was also instrumental in teaching me to sew. I plan on seeing if I can get that machine quilted soon. I cleaned the sewing room yesterday.....all fabric back in its place, and the lace container organized and put away for now. I can see table tops and Hot Legs can breathe again. LOL.<br />
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I count this all as a win as I am now motivated to work on a project. Pain or no pain, I hate being so down that I don't want to stitch a bit. It may be partly the heat but a greater part of the blame lands on the monster called Covid 19. It has sucked the interest and mojo from my creative spirit. I am so over this, and really want and need to find some normal in my life. I know most of us feel much the same way, so you know where I am at.<br />
Stay cool, and happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-63711477623788419902020-07-20T12:57:00.001-04:002020-07-20T12:57:13.562-04:00Three pincushions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Three pincushions done! They are quite addictive, as there are so many variations to explore. The long style on the right is strip pieced with batik scraps and added a couple of pieces of lace.<br />
The daisy trim one on the left turned out so pretty. The rose motif was from a bridal lace I was given. And the one on the bottom features a section of a lace collar for a young girl's dress. <br />
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I have more to fill and finish up but this morning was devoted to clearing off table tops in the sewing room. Stacks of bits and pieces to put away, but all is now cleared and sorted. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMRRYOC5SNm_gjrkMsAbLC7uZlozPOwZemSjyVG5x1gpzlKrvfMurqm36yXZcCTOeRa1ur_LJ5xeMbObjX0plQrUbQ6ARIA8kE_-3ifSE7YMFzV33Utsn6G-D9grJyyH1WbFsCx5COAs/s1600/IMG_0046+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1307" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMRRYOC5SNm_gjrkMsAbLC7uZlozPOwZemSjyVG5x1gpzlKrvfMurqm36yXZcCTOeRa1ur_LJ5xeMbObjX0plQrUbQ6ARIA8kE_-3ifSE7YMFzV33Utsn6G-D9grJyyH1WbFsCx5COAs/s400/IMG_0046+%25281%2529.jpg" width="326" /></a><br />
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The heat is relentless and the humidity is thick and heavy. Much too hot to even sit outside. <br />
Sir Old Man came home with a surprise after a trip to Ace Hardware. We added it--- small flag with a special symbol---to the back walk by the Japanese Maple. It's like the one shady spot near the house and can be seen from the back patio.<br />
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Stay cool. Stay safe.<br />
happy stitching. Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-4717002828258148802020-07-16T16:34:00.001-04:002020-07-16T16:34:09.392-04:00Mid month progress.... July is here....and we are all so hot! Our common remark is, you can wear the air here. At least the sun is shining. Right?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifygovMQulTSJjTOzjVHCnGUer7DyG-8yXT38uiOf4jfBgqPhpJ11bNuZs4YsP2LDS8JnM4E5gUh38c8V2880npIEVJzcbSEtKYD7ZrttIRNMbY9P0zdt3_xwfrWP7DjumQqGRIMMSOZ4/s1600/IMG_0053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1264" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifygovMQulTSJjTOzjVHCnGUer7DyG-8yXT38uiOf4jfBgqPhpJ11bNuZs4YsP2LDS8JnM4E5gUh38c8V2880npIEVJzcbSEtKYD7ZrttIRNMbY9P0zdt3_xwfrWP7DjumQqGRIMMSOZ4/s400/IMG_0053.jpg" width="315" /></a><br />
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Little by little I worked on the batik project. One or two rows joined every few days and finally it is a top. Now I see a few spots I should have moved. Isn't that the way it goes? But for now it is what it is. It is just intended for a sofa throw. I need to order some backing fabric and then it can get quilted.<br />
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In between the joining the rows I started on the annual <a href="https://quiltville.blogspot.com/2020/07/easy-breezy-leader-ender-challenge.html"><b>leader and ender block from Bonnie Hunter.</b></a><br />
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Once I got into the rhythm of the block, one row joined made one block! It worked perfectly for this project. <br />
So I set up a tray of pieces clipped together for a block. As I work thru scraps and such I will put more together thru the year. I have about 8 completed here!<br />
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The last few days have been dog days of heat that just sap your strength and energy. After a quick doctor's appointment this morning, I determined I was going to sew, be creative, push myself to do something. Anything! <br />
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So I had seen a small doily in the sewing room. I don't remember when I pulled it out originally, but it had a small tear in the corner and thus did not get used for what ever I was working on. I cut off part of it and sewed....... Inspiration came from <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kellycline.quilting/">Kelly Cline quilting on FB.</a> </b>Her pincushions are beautiful!<br />
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I stitched it down to a soft tiny print piece of fabric. Then added some small quilting in the plain areas, and put on a backing. This will turn into a pincushion for the guild boutique (probably) next year. I just need some crushed walnut shells.<br />
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Just completing this little one, inspired me to find my own style for special pincushions. And within and hour or so, I was moving right along. <br />
Note: My first love of quilting began when I discovered crazy quilting. All that beautiful embroidery and lace! I have since sold most of my threads and embroidery yarns, but I still have a large tub of laces and trims. Many are antique, some were gifted to me, and others culled from sale bins at Mary Jo's. <br />
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So the natural part for me is to mix accent fabrics with lace and trim, mixing the new ones and the old ones. I am going to have a very difficult time sharing this purple one! But I think I will make a few more in a similar vein :) I wonder how the laces will look on some of the batiks scraps? Just thinking of combinations. This could be a few days of fun. Now to send Sir Old Man to the store for more crushed walnut shells!<br />
Happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-6967298236712064542020-07-01T12:19:00.002-04:002020-07-01T12:20:31.936-04:00Looking for motivation<div class="separator"> I am beginning the month of July, looking for motivation. Hoping for inspiration too! The month of June was very slow, and non-productive. So I was very happy to see Bonnie Hunter post a new<a href="https://quiltville.blogspot.com/2020/07/easy-breezy-leader-ender-challenge.html" target="_blank"> <b>leader and ender challenge for the year today. </b></a> Just in the nick of time for me....and it is squares which I have tons of :)</div><div> I have been doing some simple sewing and I mean really simple for June. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxwuKqGd0BTtO4sgG1epvn0zXybENJdBLy-8CWqn2befseDsy0c9sB4_7irYCJT-Qo5YCQruABti-D3QADY34sDyXiho6EUj2KuP8QZszEGW7bVXZ7U9iMRIF4I_RIviL3ivhq2ESy3c/s3478/IMG-0039.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3478" data-original-width="2903" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxwuKqGd0BTtO4sgG1epvn0zXybENJdBLy-8CWqn2befseDsy0c9sB4_7irYCJT-Qo5YCQruABti-D3QADY34sDyXiho6EUj2KuP8QZszEGW7bVXZ7U9iMRIF4I_RIviL3ivhq2ESy3c/w334-h400/IMG-0039.jpg" width="334" /></a></div></div><div> I found a project sheet saved from somewhere years ago, and decided to sew up batiks. I have lots of batik scraps and a huge envelop of charm squares. I know I won a couple of packs years back and never used them. The original design had everything lined up so that the inset strips matched up. So for a couple of reasons I decided to flip the arrangement in pairs.</div><div> First, this is a scrappy mix of batiks....each side of the brick is not always the same fabric. I tried to be close in color and value when possible. My goal was to use up all the charm squares in the baggie. </div><div> Second, visually for me the mixed version was more interesting, not as modern looking. The arrangement seems to keep the eye moving, so the unmatched fabrics are not as noticeable. It reminds me of the old madras plaid look. </div><div> I have another couple of rows of bricks to sew and press before I begin to join it all together. That's why I was happy for the new leader and ender. </div><div> While the weather is better and I am having less pain, I hope to make a dent in prepping the leader and enders before beginning the assembly. </div><div><br /></div><div> On Facebook, the challenge is going around this month to share a quilt each day for 10 days. And to name and challenge another to do the same. No details or such required just quilt photos. Sure makes the world a prettier place....lol. I am <a href="https://www.facebook.com/debbie.clarke.12327">on day 3 of sharing</a> . Just an idea to pass on that others might want to try in their areas.</div><div><br /></div><div> The fragrant Lilies are in bloom right now. It is heavenly to catch a whiff of them as you walk past. The blooms are huge and so pretty.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEvC2Ui6Z4s8EGI71bftbNcHuOWmraCg52SG5GCFf9GaAOHJYr72ymVfwewjPHShyphenhypheniRCe8YLLOlfjc0qJFpOMsMPM_Q4bZPq7a9RVP2CyZr4xwu-FaL3g8YJcria9B1stgb-l8YqpDZw/s1749/IMG_1120.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1749" data-original-width="1472" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEvC2Ui6Z4s8EGI71bftbNcHuOWmraCg52SG5GCFf9GaAOHJYr72ymVfwewjPHShyphenhypheniRCe8YLLOlfjc0qJFpOMsMPM_Q4bZPq7a9RVP2CyZr4xwu-FaL3g8YJcria9B1stgb-l8YqpDZw/w336-h400/IMG_1120.jpg" width="336" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div> I am trying the new Blogger....not sure I like it. Why the change? Oh, well, new and improved it not always better. </div><div>Happy stitching. </div>Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-23236900908349006362020-06-21T16:18:00.000-04:002020-06-21T16:18:11.464-04:00Using some bounty!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62EQe-fbaS0v7I4QiXO22lI3HnyT-gu-koRWn8Z045AziHpCEkIOejEtVJvpEK7Dkj8pxzhm_gJAKWEqaI6HX4iihI8hfo90rDJH1ov3PrhVE-PTL0qacUcC5MUQpe9kiih9muDJq3wQ/s1600/IMG_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62EQe-fbaS0v7I4QiXO22lI3HnyT-gu-koRWn8Z045AziHpCEkIOejEtVJvpEK7Dkj8pxzhm_gJAKWEqaI6HX4iihI8hfo90rDJH1ov3PrhVE-PTL0qacUcC5MUQpe9kiih9muDJq3wQ/s400/IMG_0035.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Have not been doing much of anything in the sewing room. Just spending some time outside and enjoying the weather and garden.<br />
Neighbor Farmer Steve left some bounty on the front porch....early cucumbers. And I turned them into lunch yesterday.....Cucumber Bacon Sandwiches.<br />
Easy to make....and make up as you go along. Light and crunchy for lunch on the patio.<br />
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Recipe:<br />
Combine for the spread:<br />
3 Tbs softened cream cheese<br />
2 tsp of Ranch Dip Mix<br />
( I buy my Ranch Dip Mix in bulk at <a href="https://www.hochstetlers.net/?fbclid=IwAR0EN-BBMoAwfjhXgTvWCiYeTbTie6USUqRZ0kcFQhms77y6Yl-9WQ5CAEU"><b>Hochstetler's Country Store</b></a> because I use it in everything)<br />
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Slice cucumber thin and place on paper towel to drain moisture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper....lightly. Meanwhile fry up bacon until crisp. I cut bacon slice in half before cooking as I was using small croissants for the sandwiches.<br />
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Slice croissants in half and spread both halves with the cream cheese spread. Layer on 3-4 slices of cucumbers and top with bacon.<br />
Next time I want to try adding some spinach and see what Sir Old Man thinks. Or maybe I will just make a nice tossed salad combo using the rest. Summer's best, I think.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirc4faOPaG_WgL7njw9r_XusKA2b7o88t9dT9Gpn-c01aSCNXfax4odYDb1amVLweZBX-rKAiYA8tST_zt3j1EwKe3bSXpZ6KvPm8PuO0PXyXO_kW0TxE-NhH_mACHCMWRoKhhj1yu_ls/s1600/IMG_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1137" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirc4faOPaG_WgL7njw9r_XusKA2b7o88t9dT9Gpn-c01aSCNXfax4odYDb1amVLweZBX-rKAiYA8tST_zt3j1EwKe3bSXpZ6KvPm8PuO0PXyXO_kW0TxE-NhH_mACHCMWRoKhhj1yu_ls/s400/IMG_0031.jpg" width="283" /></a> <br />
Lots of things in bloom right now. After some heavy rain, I found these stems bent over and almost broken. Old fashion gladiolas make a simple and colorful bouquet. Later that afternoon, I noticed they matched the runner on the cabinet!<br />
Daylilies are in full bloom and the daisies and coneflowers are awake too. So it has been great to enjoy them.<br />
Sir Old Man is extending the sun shade canopy---from 10 foot to 16 foot---this week over the patio/deck as the new sail was delivered. It should open up our space a bit.<br />
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As for sewing....a small bit not much. I haven't been very inspired. I found a big stack of batiks matched up along with a print out from a magazine from years back. My batik pairs are not all exact matches, random leftovers, and gifted fabrics. But that is fine by me, I probably won't follow the pattern layout exactly either. So with the heat settling in, I hopefully will get motivated to see how it works. <br />
I ran out of fusible interfacing for the watercolor projects.....oh, horrors. That stuff is scarce as hen's teeth. I finally broke down and ordered some gridded interfacing which arrived this week. So maybe another floral project in the future. <br />
Like everyone else, I am ready for life to return as it was.....but know it isn't happening soon. Fair warning to all.....before the next major event/pandemic/apocalypse buy fabric, thread, interfacing and toilet paper! Stay safe and sew on. Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-40790176726788508402020-05-30T16:00:00.000-04:002020-05-30T16:00:03.496-04:00Divide and Conquer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1tDx5CskNnjzor79yyUWQgXY7Sloxejvf4HdMCMZiTwsR3w03Xi1xStZzH_N8pGJWc83IE7xasZtQHODA80fwZj3cOKMDIQPeNV_FjQDeMI2GExEOSSRMSkiSeqDolB2jO5DwU4Dj2T8/s1600/IMG_1598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1tDx5CskNnjzor79yyUWQgXY7Sloxejvf4HdMCMZiTwsR3w03Xi1xStZzH_N8pGJWc83IE7xasZtQHODA80fwZj3cOKMDIQPeNV_FjQDeMI2GExEOSSRMSkiSeqDolB2jO5DwU4Dj2T8/s320/IMG_1598.jpg" width="320" /></a> It was last year when I purchased several pre-printed panels. I made a small wall hanging as a daily reminder to me to have a grateful heart. It resides on the pantry door and I see it often during the day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHfHdGUHC5yqa08qYMl8laGdB1BWkOeMr4d2rtxO5-fm1FZQmG2TejeKy4pXu7vGmf2ZknodokuAXSCTQdKGFhsnSRZsbZP9nvSsTKd8VaHoUnYs2q9oxifGxiJNDzAlbZtK019EvG9U/s1600/IMG_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1294" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHfHdGUHC5yqa08qYMl8laGdB1BWkOeMr4d2rtxO5-fm1FZQmG2TejeKy4pXu7vGmf2ZknodokuAXSCTQdKGFhsnSRZsbZP9nvSsTKd8VaHoUnYs2q9oxifGxiJNDzAlbZtK019EvG9U/s320/IMG_0023.jpg" width="258" /></a><br />
A couple of months later I put together another small wall hanging to use as a gift. I used an accent color to frame the main part, and added butterflies for an accent.<br />
That left a larger section to divide up or use together. I knew I wanted to add a narrow frame around the next batch and blend with the 2'' squares of floral fabrics.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7kx5m_0cgPJnNgAoi1J5yg5lDGgB1JHKGh4jD9r82vqpD0WFyQKPBVqr9YkTem2Dl4xXSdNc4Ck4gIxpApAbJjv3_pqlWIIYcqeZpm6Yo91ZFbsuBPT190AD_krAJ66AqJTodU2A4rM/s1600/IMG_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1326" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7kx5m_0cgPJnNgAoi1J5yg5lDGgB1JHKGh4jD9r82vqpD0WFyQKPBVqr9YkTem2Dl4xXSdNc4Ck4gIxpApAbJjv3_pqlWIIYcqeZpm6Yo91ZFbsuBPT190AD_krAJ66AqJTodU2A4rM/s400/IMG_0016.jpg" width="331" /></a><br />
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The larger section got cut up after all. I wanted to frame the two main portions for an added pop of color. I had just a small bit of this purple for the 1'' border. I love how it makes the purple in the printed sections stand out.<br />
I played around with very irregular/asymmetrical blended sections. I tried to keep the darkest to the corners so as not to detract from the center. It worked to create the depth I was hoping for to give a more artsy feel.<br />
<i>Garden of Praise</i> is a wall hanging that is 33'' by 36''.<br />
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Today all were finished! With the sun out and no rain drops to spoil the photo taking process, we ventured out to the deck. I wanted to have a photo comparison of the finished projects.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwqT0btUWDmAt-LrWZolS7bRRJTbomHeRlsdlbUkwp0DKNCzj3YbsmZ4nHgswnXyI4u4Su6uHNYrRFkUwEvw7R77XPUaK-7Wq4_Iy-EDTkG4EBgqiXCySBOk0q0BJLp0EQaVjK4gwgkM/s1600/IMG_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwqT0btUWDmAt-LrWZolS7bRRJTbomHeRlsdlbUkwp0DKNCzj3YbsmZ4nHgswnXyI4u4Su6uHNYrRFkUwEvw7R77XPUaK-7Wq4_Iy-EDTkG4EBgqiXCySBOk0q0BJLp0EQaVjK4gwgkM/s640/IMG_0019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Those large pre-printed panels can be intimidating. They have inherently uneven blocks or sections, or the printing may be crooked. You need coordinating fabrics to blend with the printed sections, and so on. <br />
So this series for me became a Divide and Conquer idea. Even though I used the same watercolor technique to enlarge each portion I cut out---the divide part--I conquered the designs by altering the type of layout.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM5JD_sa_Ms9E2N6P999eQNj5PuunGoFNXxJlQ6RvCvY0WHbtgXrvOpWIpRxZr-dWmeZ1uCuHDhU58Ar2QKS5BvR9xtSIs8WSpzGnaf2KZn1_6dQ0QVkBACts_Maf6NHyAQMqeLhQogE/s1600/IMG_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1595" data-original-width="1141" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM5JD_sa_Ms9E2N6P999eQNj5PuunGoFNXxJlQ6RvCvY0WHbtgXrvOpWIpRxZr-dWmeZ1uCuHDhU58Ar2QKS5BvR9xtSIs8WSpzGnaf2KZn1_6dQ0QVkBACts_Maf6NHyAQMqeLhQogE/s320/IMG_0029.jpg" width="228" /></a><br />
The two on the left are symmetrical with the blended portion moving around the top one, and in the lower one just accented in opposing corners. <br />
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The two on the right are the ones just finished. The larger one I discussed all ready. The small one...is just that a small left over that just didn't fit into the other ones. I couldn't let it go to waste, so using the leftover bits from the larger one, I made a small table top mat as a Blessing! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlo5U6AysG2t4eTXIDV4D7stfSfMk4ngQUMN80UmlZPeY2-37buDXu-nxMAcuMvuLRsLW56uOkPhQbiMcGzXFvmMtiuA3Ig6nch6D2QnB1w9pTOEcE6BXP8xiIVIntgv10D1rVnrSrqA/s1600/IMG_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1439" data-original-width="1474" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlo5U6AysG2t4eTXIDV4D7stfSfMk4ngQUMN80UmlZPeY2-37buDXu-nxMAcuMvuLRsLW56uOkPhQbiMcGzXFvmMtiuA3Ig6nch6D2QnB1w9pTOEcE6BXP8xiIVIntgv10D1rVnrSrqA/s320/IMG_0022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I still have the insanity during the pandemic quilt to quilt. My hands and wrists need a few days to rest and recover before I tackle that.<br />
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And one last look at the 4 in the series of divide and conquer.<br />
Happy stitching. Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-61151249107814143472020-05-25T11:55:00.001-04:002020-05-25T11:55:22.249-04:00Catching up Time to catch up.....I know it has been a month since I posted and several emails from readers reminded me to wake up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0j0lT55VwRBZkrbqju_qHodClFy5MfzEskCLwqP61pJP5dN722A5DlcTGiz0SgMT4vV2FnynNGRUEgLL92utzUe15KR8euu2rBUyreiF4XC4Xg5BlRVFhyphenhyphenurtLorkjxM2Pa6olKnjtf8/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1263" data-original-width="851" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0j0lT55VwRBZkrbqju_qHodClFy5MfzEskCLwqP61pJP5dN722A5DlcTGiz0SgMT4vV2FnynNGRUEgLL92utzUe15KR8euu2rBUyreiF4XC4Xg5BlRVFhyphenhyphenurtLorkjxM2Pa6olKnjtf8/s320/IMG_0001.jpg" width="215" /></a> We had a very nice Spring and Sir Old man worked tirelessly in the yard completing projects from my list for him. We had 2 truck loads of mulch spread over the beds to give them a refresh. the crew also planted a couple of new trees we got for Earth Day from the power company and Clemson. <br />
Sir Old Man finally added the birdhouse he built for the Bluebirds. And can you believe it is already occupied! It has been fun to watch them darting in and out or sunning on the roof. he is inspired now to build another one for the front yard. <br />
We spent one Saturday morning adding some edging plants to the back bed. It was one trip/venture I made away from home....to the garden center nearby to select some herbs and ground covers for the back. And yea, we ran into a quilting buddy. Waving to Yvonne!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7ESsJDYH0yER_LxGXLF81s2aEGhXYcEfjzWaNjAs77t4OXEJXbGRLmqgSvr00EpgB61-N8CBTtbh-DeDycRHSmxfOnhKprDYXUO4CbJXPIJGRuXLkjx0ZwnoM9af5Z18-uzkoh8OEO8/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1585" data-original-width="1383" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7ESsJDYH0yER_LxGXLF81s2aEGhXYcEfjzWaNjAs77t4OXEJXbGRLmqgSvr00EpgB61-N8CBTtbh-DeDycRHSmxfOnhKprDYXUO4CbJXPIJGRuXLkjx0ZwnoM9af5Z18-uzkoh8OEO8/s400/IMG_0004.jpg" width="348" /></a> <br />
I was working on the insanity during the pandemic quilt last time I posted. It is assembled and ready to quilt. Thanks to Sir Old Man learning to pin a quilt! Without his help I would not have gotten both of these ready to quilt. <br />
The top one is another wall hanging build around some more pre-printed panel parts. Small sections of watercolor florals frame the parts I put together. Fusing onto interfacing and simple stitching, I can handle right now. <br />
Note to self....you are now out of both batting and interfacing. Need to order both.<br />
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Both of these are smaller so I am hoping I can manage the quilting. <br />
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We have had over 7 inches of rain in the last week.....stormy days and such. All add to the aches in the hands and wrists. So for simple stitching time.....personal therapy session.... I have been doing some scrap and crumb piecing. <br />
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I have a small basket of bits and pieces by the machine. It is easy to grab a pair and build a section like the center part here. I needed a leader/ender project while stitching the fused floral units for the wall hanging. <br />
I decided to use the light print with and rosy vine on it for a constant thru out. I have quite a bit of the light, which I am sure I was saving for something that will never happen, and this seemed a good time to use it!<br />
Beyond freely stitching and a light press for now, there is no real plan. I have about a dozen together , so many more to grow. I will square them up to a common size on a less painful day. <br />
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Our world is beginning to open up a bit. Sir Old Man has been doing all the shopping, and keeping me home. I am allowed to ride along when he gets gas or goes to the dairy. There are times you need to see that the world still exists. I went to the podiatrist last week but had to wait in the car until they could slip me into a room and then right back out. I was notified that another of my doctors retired......I am assigned to a new one for next month. Oh, joy....lol. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZ5kAGAO1dxrRC8aCrv389J-t9U7MmRvUtc07sjsbo32MHu_W3jexyuOC09U8MaWtU2nRRMCPHRAb8lHU9TCnMeR62o0CLIKdPPmNZieXJyG8YOeva8OpJ-kvvpA9gcMx6giPFJEF0CY/s1600/30371988-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1419" data-original-width="1451" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZ5kAGAO1dxrRC8aCrv389J-t9U7MmRvUtc07sjsbo32MHu_W3jexyuOC09U8MaWtU2nRRMCPHRAb8lHU9TCnMeR62o0CLIKdPPmNZieXJyG8YOeva8OpJ-kvvpA9gcMx6giPFJEF0CY/s400/30371988-001.jpg" width="400" /></a> So while I chose to not blame anyone for what has happened, I do recognize the take aways during this time. <br />
Never forget how much freedom means. <br />
Never freely give up your rights to be free. <br />
Forever and always be thankful that we are free, and live in a wonderful country that lets us be free. Free to love others, free to be ourselves, free to walk among the world.<br />
And today we remember those who died for our right to be free. And once again I share a favorite wall hanging entitled<i><b> Remembrance.</b></i> <br />
Happy Memorial Day.<br />
Happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-68327788714286122812020-04-20T12:57:00.001-04:002020-04-20T12:57:19.889-04:00Lost track of the day/week Before I get emails checking on me, I thought I needed to stick my head up and do a post! Days have run together as there is nothing to set forth a routine any more. Regular household chores of cooking and laundry, time reading, and sitting outside in the sun, doing jig-saw puzzle fill in the hours between small bouts of sewing and making masks to fill requests. I am now out of what little elastic I found hidden in the closet. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLV1LVpIJqcBYYeyaPlTxKQc5urjk7s-KtLRhx9kaKJozM6aYDjPUs_vDKgWjQxC7kzWcLmAGIZMfqP9hZVFALMl-TSiz1DqQK4K0e3RPLtHI5uz3MEPJ3zNKBG_sjKk5QPgQMWOgtL4/s1600/IMG_1116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLV1LVpIJqcBYYeyaPlTxKQc5urjk7s-KtLRhx9kaKJozM6aYDjPUs_vDKgWjQxC7kzWcLmAGIZMfqP9hZVFALMl-TSiz1DqQK4K0e3RPLtHI5uz3MEPJ3zNKBG_sjKk5QPgQMWOgtL4/s400/IMG_1116.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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Sewing.....I did some big quilt wrangling and wrestling to get the wonky courthouse steps quilted! What a chore this one was. Or it could be the wrist and hand pain just made it seem that way. Anyway, it is done and ready for a wash. <br />
My blocks are 8'' and the quilt finished up at about 64'' by 80''. <br />
I began the blocks in the fall of last year, and just used whatever was in the string and scrap bins. Collectively, everything comes together so well.....as long as you are 3 feet away! Lol. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnURCRV8rh1QVs9GcYApSmjq5_pvH8W8YTrKaBK4yxGWpCbrxXuEuUtISaqW-LLrSgJXl9VJHYWd5x8PRzX35iXTDHEZkNJvTBwNTzEd12h4Kfbu2EfVgxUlAmFS7kUrQGKmLEEGxbYkw/s1600/IMG_1570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnURCRV8rh1QVs9GcYApSmjq5_pvH8W8YTrKaBK4yxGWpCbrxXuEuUtISaqW-LLrSgJXl9VJHYWd5x8PRzX35iXTDHEZkNJvTBwNTzEd12h4Kfbu2EfVgxUlAmFS7kUrQGKmLEEGxbYkw/s200/IMG_1570.jpg" width="168" /></a><br />
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The tutorial is from <a href="https://quiltville.blogspot.com/2019/10/crooked-courthouse-steps.html"><b>Bonnie Hunter at Quiltville....she called them crooked courthouse steps. </b></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-7OjEioPNsiHD7H75BI_ZlD3TqNr8hdwZnjlt1Jdp2YWJZduGMUX7QNgatPjel-mBuwC59MfQ3i2LuWjh08wrIjqyGP0SDsTq3Gq4c3xp5Xg-n8Nuo7RCsOhtq4N-RzNhIcfyzs4mdM/s1600/IMG_1107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1184" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-7OjEioPNsiHD7H75BI_ZlD3TqNr8hdwZnjlt1Jdp2YWJZduGMUX7QNgatPjel-mBuwC59MfQ3i2LuWjh08wrIjqyGP0SDsTq3Gq4c3xp5Xg-n8Nuo7RCsOhtq4N-RzNhIcfyzs4mdM/s320/IMG_1107.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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I am now sewing rows together on the "keeping my sanity during the pandemic" sting quilt. This is a much smaller project! The blocks I am working with here are 4 ''. I intended these to create a wall hanging, so we will see what happens as I progress. <br />
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We have had big storms, lots of rain, cool days, and now warmer spring days of sunshine. I have had a teleconference doctor visit, a physical visit for the eye doctor, cancelled appointments, and not a single trip to the store. How life changed in a few days and now lasting over 7 weeks of stay at home, I think.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrcpvJutD9M6B__u7C-GckPkUhhBnl1jmdV2KREQn-93LxEtDhVsOTDiZnfS8SLkZYBrGyqxe9zlrRoSGAotDZNYWCYlMI_AFjxrjZZI8H6IC1rGNSH6Ca6EPMffWnLNoiZ3wI912QDk/s1600/IMG_1115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="453" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrcpvJutD9M6B__u7C-GckPkUhhBnl1jmdV2KREQn-93LxEtDhVsOTDiZnfS8SLkZYBrGyqxe9zlrRoSGAotDZNYWCYlMI_AFjxrjZZI8H6IC1rGNSH6Ca6EPMffWnLNoiZ3wI912QDk/s320/IMG_1115.jpg" width="241" /></a> The one thing I truly miss.....the one thing I really need.....a hair cut! I am so hoping that the salon will open up soon. I can order a lot online, but haircuts are not offered that way. I have threatened to just shave my head and be done with it all, but Sir Old Man told the hairdresser and she gave me a lecture and a half. <br />
And as soon as this quilt is washed and dried, A short nap will be needed. <br />
Happy stitching. Stay safe and well. <br />
Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-82729718905825602482020-04-02T11:31:00.002-04:002020-04-02T11:31:17.564-04:00Morning Glories!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finished small wall hanging that I called Morning Glories. I am not sure that there are turquoise morning glories but that is what I was reminded of here. <br />
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The design began as slightly abstract with dark on the side and a band of dark across. The more I looked at it, I could see a fence post with broken post. That lead me to adding some applique using these bold flowers in gold and turquoise. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8F4qw5nD9ayfronO0vdP89iEwC3MVtNvxtf5PtRWc_ae650ACkyEIx3yrARExoBiaIWZ3A2bcTxM11rYYuAJ_AgCgsnrzQTuslmhjwPNw97KzFll2yiFs0WMVnWdcDiVkuEXjeF2lUJ8/s1600/IMG_0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1115" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8F4qw5nD9ayfronO0vdP89iEwC3MVtNvxtf5PtRWc_ae650ACkyEIx3yrARExoBiaIWZ3A2bcTxM11rYYuAJ_AgCgsnrzQTuslmhjwPNw97KzFll2yiFs0WMVnWdcDiVkuEXjeF2lUJ8/s320/IMG_0056.jpg" width="223" /></a><br />
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Note the applique is fused fabric , cut out and tucked close to each other to create illusion of a vine climbing the post. All edges are machine stitched with a small zig-zag stitch.<br />
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So morning glories climbing a broken post seems a natural. I ended up with a light binding...which is not what I wanted, but now it is done. <br />
Hung on the office door it offers up a bright spot of Spring in our troubled world. <br />
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I think I am on my 21st day of house-bound habitation. Not completely stir-crazy yet, but approaching outer limits of sanity! After finishing laundry this morning, I am heading for the porch out back to enjoy some sun and fresh air. Stay safe and stay well.<br />
Happy stitching.Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481577725397935350.post-71361177533509269772020-03-28T07:00:00.000-04:002020-03-28T07:00:06.106-04:00Finding some sanity I try to avoid the fear and panic from the pandemic. I limit the articles I read and such. Yet, still that swirling vortex of calamity creeps in the cracks of my mind. I realized that the normal routine of life has changed, been altered by circumstances I can not control in the least. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4krJ8-BZYyYIhB_3s0Qn5ErIoNtKwYhl7MnZgIEYc8HRCOTpuWFF3cWzyEV81Y2GJLOToAy2YIa69YbRBuAJJDQ65VwUy-xLArU5LDu5ySQGcnd6yHqr3VxxBgVfKJjc88oMAR3FjS44/s1600/IMG_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4krJ8-BZYyYIhB_3s0Qn5ErIoNtKwYhl7MnZgIEYc8HRCOTpuWFF3cWzyEV81Y2GJLOToAy2YIa69YbRBuAJJDQ65VwUy-xLArU5LDu5ySQGcnd6yHqr3VxxBgVfKJjc88oMAR3FjS44/s400/IMG_1010.JPG" /></a> So beyond the usual household chores and meals....Sir Old Man is home more, so I cook more....I need to create something routine and daily. I have been sewing about an hour a day usually, and this week I came upon an idea that has some meaning to me. Before I got sick in 2016, we were making a circle block a day, which I turned into my therapy quilt. Actually I made two because I could not handle the large size of just one.<br />
My idea was to make a small block each day as a means of self expression and work out any frustrations I was feeling. I had a bin with a few string blocks already made. Perfect beginning.<br />
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Small string blocks using up floral strings and bits! Simple and easy on the hands for me to do. By making 4 or 5 day, which doesn't take long, I have a nice stack of these now. My block size is 4'' and most of the fabrics are florals and tonals with a few other prints thrown in. <br />
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I looked thru saved images on Pinterest for layout ideas and decided this one depicts the state of our new normal.<br />
Everything seems out of focus, and not quite centered. Life is smooth and then takes a quick turn. New demands, adjustments. Altered priorities. I am sewing any insanity and frustration of the day into small blocks. When they get put together and tamed, sanity will return!<br />
Or at least that is what I am telling myself.<br />
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I have the Blended 4 patch under the needle for the weekend......sew on!Debbiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08468608812169214999noreply@blogger.com15