True Creations

The Count Down Begins!

2011-05-30T07:45:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone,

The Genesee Valley Quilt Club quilt show is fast approaching.

This year's show will not disappoint!

We have close to 1000 quilts/wearable art on display. 41 top notch vendors from around the country. A Wearable Art Fashion Show on Friday; our version of Project Iron Quilter (A mix between "Project Runway" and "Iron Chef".) set for Saturday; rounding out the show is a Live Auction on Sunday afternoon.

The show hours are:

Friday, June 3rd 9am - 5pm

Saturday, June 4th 9am - 5pm

Sunday, June 5th 9am - 4pm

Admission is:

$10 for one day

$15 for a weekend pass

If you would like to see the goings on from our last show (2009) click here.

There is truly something for everyone at this show.

Hope to see you at the show!

Happy Quilting, Kathy

Just One Star!

2011-03-10T05:45:00.007-05:00

Hello Everyone,
Blogging brings many opportunities for helping with quilts for good causes. I found one the other day while I was at a local quilt shop.

Moda is coordinating an effort to make 100 quilts in 100 days from Minick and Simpson's "Flag of Valor" pattern.

The quilts are to be donated to American servicemen and Veterans through the Semper Fi Fund.

Here is how you can help by making Just One Star!

Piece one star block from this tutorial using a medium red or blue and a cream background. Sign the block with your name and state. Mail the completed block to:

United Notions/Moda Fabrics

Attn: Just One Star Project

13800 Hutton

Dallas, TX 75234

Submit your untrimmed block before May 1, 2011 and the busy bees at Moda will trim your block and include it in one of the 100 quilts to be presented to wounded soldiers and their families.

Why not ask your friends in your guilds and sewing groups to make Just One Star. We'll have those 100 quilts in no time!

I'm off to stitch up my star block! How about you?

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Friends, Friendship Blocks and Winner

2011-03-08T05:45:00.005-05:00

Hello Everyone,
Remember way back when, the Tuesday night group that I belong to decided to do our own block exchange. (You can read about it here.)
Last night the Tuesday Night Quilters got together at a local Panera Bread to show what we had done with the blocks from the exchange.
Chris's blocks are still blocks.

But Peggy has turned her blocks into this great quilt that she is hand quilting. Peggy also added a couple of extra blocks.

Donna made her blocks into a great looking wall hanging for above her fireplace.

Pattie made this really beautiful quilt that I was lucky enough to quilt for her. (This photo doesn't do Pattie's quilt justice.)

Cindy was unable to make our Tuesday night quilt group on Monday night this week - so I don't have a picture of her quilt. She made a stunning wall hanging with her blocks and she asked me to quilt an all over pattern for her; which I did.

Oh, what about my blocks you ask? Well, I'm right there with Chris. My blocks are still blocks.

I'm looking for a layout suggestion for my blocks. Any ideas? I'm happy to make extra blocks if you think I need to. Let me know how I should proceed.

Now onto the winner of the Strip It pattern from this post...

Random Number Generator chose #4, that's Pam!!

Pam commented: On a sunny winter day I love to start the day with a walk and let the fresh air invigorate me!! Then spend some time in front of my sewing machine before making dinner.

I have sent you an e-mail, just send me your snail mail address and the Strip It pattern will be on its way!

I would like to thank Quilters Corner for their generous donation of the quilt pattern for our giveaway. If you are interested in purchasing your own copy of this pattern it can be found here.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

A Pleasure To Quilt

2011-03-04T06:45:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone,
I want to share with you a quilt that I recently quilted.
The quilt was made using Maison De Garance by French General. The piecer wanted a simple all over design. I chose an open airy pattern called Flirtatious.
From a longarmer's perspective, what makes this quilt great is the care that the piecer took with cutting, piecing and pressing as she constructed her quilt top. As you can see in this photo her top lays really, really flat!

The first row.

The quilting pattern, Flirtatious.

The quilt just before I'm ready to deliver it. (I think I need to work on my photography a bit.)

The quilt maker was thrilled with the quilt. She immediately began to put her binding on the quilt that afternoon. I hope that she brings it to a local shop's Quilt Tea next week. If she does, I might have a chance to get a finished quilt photo!

This quilt truly was A Pleasure To Quilt.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Sunny Winter Day and Giveaway

2011-03-02T05:45:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone,
What do you do when the air is crisp, the sun is shining and there is still snow on the ground?

My friend, Myra answered that question with 'Do you want to take a ride to Ithaca?' My response was, "Absolutely!" I knew that we were off to Quilters Corner.

Quilters Corner was featured in the Fall/Winter 2010 issue of Better Homes and Gardens Quilt Sampler.

Myra picked me up and off to Ithaca we went! After driving for about an hour and a half we had arrived. We went into the store and were warmly greeted. Myra and I looked around, exclaiming, 'Oh wow look at this!' 'I just love this shop!' 'I don't know about you but I'm starving.' 'Okay, lets get some lunch.'
We asked the owners where a good place for lunch. Without hesitation the answer was Ithaca Bakery.

We walked over a block and down two and we came to Ithaca Bakery.

We were not disappointed. Lunch was really good. But we needed to get back to business.

Quilters Corner is full of friendly faces. Everyone just loves this bright and cheery quilt shop.


Front window display.

Do you need a quick and easy strip quilt? Quilters Corner has a really nice selection.


Easy Strip Quilts let the fabric be the focal point.

Two Quilts: Anything Goes and Strip It

They offer some wonderful classes...

Four Patch Posies, Stitcher's Garden, and Hop To It

How about some inspiration for a quilt?

Free Spirit Fabric used to create 5&Dime quilt.

There is a wonderful display of books.

Need a Book?

New merchandise is always arriving. Katie Barnaby, one of the four owners opens a box.

Katie Barnaby looks to see what has just arrived.

Myra and Cyndi Slothower, another of the four owners, wait for me to finish up my shopping.

Myra and Cyndi Slothower

I hope that you enjoyed what I did one Sunny Winter Day.

Now for the Giveaway part. Leave me a comment on what you like to do on a Sunny Winter Day and you'll be entered to win the pattern, Strip It, complements of Quilters Corner.

The giveaway will remain open until Midnight EST on Monday, March 7. I will do the drawing on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 using random number generator.

Good Luck to all!

***The giveaway is now closed. Thank you to all who entered. I would like to thank Quilters Corner for donating the pattern, Strip It.***

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Extra! Extra!

2011-01-31T05:45:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Just wanted to let everyone know that a new issue of the True Creations newsletter has been sent. If you are a current subscriber thank you.

If you do not currently receive our newsletter, just click on newspaper and coffee logo to sign up.

I hope you like the new look to my blog page! I think it will be much easier for you to read and I am hoping that photos will display better.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

A Plethora of Color

2010-10-22T22:42:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,
The Irondequoit Quilt Club has once again out done themselves with another terrific quilt show entitled: A Walk in the Quilter's Garden. Each quilt category has garden themed names like Pansy Place, Tulip Terrace, Sunflower Avenue and Hydrangea Street to name just a few. There are easily over 150 quilts on display. Here is a little glimpse:

Love the use of thirties prints in this quilt.

30's Subway Tile

Many quilt shops around the US were busy earlier this year with a "Quilter's Football" program. This quilt is one of the many projects that were offered.

Pre-Game Butterflies

Stash and scraps is where this award winning quilt came from. It is king size! You too can create a great looking quilt using only fabrics and scraps from your stash.

Bear Paws

The quilter that pieced this beauty was trying her hand at a new applique technique (in the border) that she had recently learned. What an outstanding job she did!


Country Haven

The simple quilting design here is just right!

Four Star Squared

Woof, Woof. These dogs are all in the dog-house!

Lucien's Quilt

The greens and purples in this quilt are luscious!

Purple Snowball

You can almost hear the waves crashing and taste the ocean-side candy.

Salt-Water Taffy

Brrrrrr it's getting chilly outside.... We may need this fun loving quilt to cuddle up with!

Snowmen Row

If you are in the area be sure to check out the show. The hours on Saturday, October 23rd are 10am - 4pm at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection. (3736 St.Paul Blvd. - Corner of St. Paul and Cooper Roads in Irondequoit.)

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Before, During and After

2010-08-25T06:45:00.010-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Many quilter's ask me, "How do you decide which design to use on a quilt?"
It is a process.

Before~
First I look at the quilt...

This is a customer's Carpenter's Wheel quilt. It measures 39" x 39" and it is going to be used as a wall hanging, and not as a table topper.

During ~
Since this quilt is going to be used as a wall hanging, I should choose some designs that will enhance the piecing. If this quilt was going to be used as a table topper; then I would consider an all over design. The thought here is that the quilt will probably not be seen in it entirety as a table topper; there would be items on top of the quilt (lamp, book, etc.); thereby making the quilting design less important to the overall quilt design.

The blocks of this quilt top are only three inches square. I need to be concerned with size and scale. I would not want to place any very detailed dense design in those areas. I need to choose simple and open designs to complement the over all feel of the fabrics and the piecing.
Here is a look at a design for the outer border, inner corner, and center side areas.

The designs are all very simple and open. They do not take away from the over all feel of the Carpenter's Wheel wall quilt.
Once I have a plan, I am ready to start quilting. Although, sometimes part of the plan may change as I quilt; I may become inspired to go in a little different direction.

After ~
Here is the wall hanging after quilting.

Here is a shot of some of the details.

I hope this blog entry has given you some insight as to the process, Before, During and After that I go though with each quilt that I quilt.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting,
Kathy

Saturday Show and Another

2010-08-23T12:17:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Twice a year one of our local quilt shops exhibits quilts made by their customers. The quilts range from beginners to advanced quilters. The quilter may have taken a class, purchased the fabric or pattern at the shop, or maybe even was inspired by a quilt from a previous show!
Here are a few quilts:

Ruth and Cheryl from Irondequoit Quilt Guild were selling raffle tickets for this beautiful quilt entitled Mystic Garden, that the guild members made. The tickets are $1 each, or 6 for $5. The drawing will be held at their upcoming guild quilt show, A Walk in the Quilter's Garden, in October. The quilt show is Friday, October 22nd from 2pm - 8pm and Saturday October 23rd from 10am - 4pm. At 4pm they will be drawing the winner of this wonderful quilt. Will you have the lucky ticket?

The guild is also doing a raffle for an entry level Bernina sewing machine that was donate by a local quilt shop. Those tickets are $1 each. Who will be the lucky quilter with a new machine?

Until next time…
Happy Quilting,
Kathy

Did You Notice?

2010-08-06T05:45:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Did you notice the new icon logo on my sidebar? Or the tab at the top of my blog?

We are so very excited about being an authorized Accuquilt retailer! Yes that's right, you can get all your Accuquilt needs met right here at True Creations.
We are working on setting up a shopping cart for your convenience. But until then please check out the tab above to find out more.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Ooooohhhhhh Fabric!

2010-08-02T05:45:00.009-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Look what I found on my travels while in Connecticut...

Now what to make with these luscious fabrics? Do you have any suggestions?

What do you think about this quilt pattern?

If you would like your very own Fruit Cake pattern it can be found here, from my friend Jackie. She may even have a bundle or two of fabric to go with this pattern!

Happy Quilting, Kathy

Can You Guess?

2010-07-26T05:45:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone!

I took a little trip last week to visit a Statler Sib. I'll give you a few clues and maybe you can guess who it is!

Clue 1: I met her in Overland Park, KS over two years ago at the first SUGAR Conference.

Clue 2: She has a very active blog (always in my sidebar); and is the one who encouraged me to start blogging.

Clue 3: She has lots and lots of bolts of fabric.

Clue 4: These are some favors. But she also loves 30's prints.

Clue 5: Wow, what an array of color of threads she gets to use! She really loves those purples, pinks and lime greens.

Clue 6: These are some of the half yard bundles that she sells on her on line store.

Did you guess, Jackie from Canton Village Quilt Works?

We had such a great visit last week! It's always fun seeing friends. Make sure you go over and check out Jackie's blog.

Thank you Jackie for the wonderful visit. I'm looking forward to another and hope that it will be sooner than later.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Quilt Festival Vendor Mailing!

2010-07-19T11:48:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,

The Genesee Valley Quilt Club is gearing up for our June 2011 Quilt Festival. I devoted this past weekend to organizing all the vendor packets and mailing them out! I can't wait to see who will be at our next show. If you want to see a glimpse into our last show you can read all about it here.

If you know of anyone who may be interested in vending, please have them contact me at: quiltfest@rochester.rr.com. I will be sure to send them a packet as well.

Until next time… Happy Quilting, Kathy

Happy Birthday America!

2010-07-03T16:15:00.002-04:00

I just love our small town parade...

Let's find a seat.

Here is one of the many marching bands.

A tractor with a barn and silo.

We need some firetrucks.

A unicyclist juggler with flames! Oh my!

How about some candy?

Of course a 4th of July parade would not be complete without Santa!

What are these clowns up to?

Parades, cookouts, great summer weather, family, friends, fun and fireworks - what's not to love about America's Birthday?!

Enjoy your weekend.
Kathy

Friendship Blocks

2010-04-13T05:45:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Some of the ladies from the Tuesday night quilt group that I belong to have decided to do a block exchange. Each person decided which block they wanted to make as "their" block. I chose a block called Honeymoon also know as Sweet Sixteen Star. My quilt will be made using pink 30's prints and Kona snow.


Honeymoon / Sweet Sixteen Star

Here are the basic guidelines we used:
1. Each participant will provide two pieces of fabric: 1 fat quarter of you main fabric, and 1 fat quarter of your background fabric for each participant.
2. Using 13"x15" jumbo (2 gal) Ziplock bags place the two fabrics in a bag for each participant. Put your name, email and phone number on the bag.
3. You will add fabric, either from your stash or bought to compliment the fabric in each bag and make the block that you have chosen. These will be 12" finished (12 1/2" unfinished blocks).
4. You will have from March until the September 2010 meeting to complete all bags, at which time they will be given back to the original owner. Note that you may return finished block to the original owner at any time before September if you complete them early, also return any left over fabric that was in the bag.
5. When you have all your blocks back, you can set them however you want.
All of us are very excited about this great Friendship Block exchange. Here are some of the blocks that I have completed for others:

Peggy's Fabrics


Honeymoon with Peggy's Fabric

Chris' Fabrics

Honeymoon Block with Chris' Fabric

Cindy's Fabric

Honeymoon Block with Cindy's Fabric

Donna's Fabric

Honeymoon Block with Donna's Fabrics

Pattie's Fabrics

Honeymoon Block with Pattie's Fabric

I hope everyone likes what I did with their fabrics! I am so anxious to see what they will create with the pink 30's fabric I gave to each of them.

Have you done an exchange with some of your quilting friends? I would love to hear about your block exchange, the type of blocks, the fabrics you used, or maybe the final setting that was used for the blocks. This is going to be sooooooo much fun!
Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Rolling Along Jelly Roll

2010-04-12T05:45:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Today is the day that the fourth block is announced for the Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along. I can't wait to see what it is going to be.

Here is my third block. This block was designed by Debbie Maddy.

You might remember that I am using Verna by Kate Spain for Moda.

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Sew-In

2010-03-30T05:45:00.011-04:00

Hello Everyone,

Saturday was the third (actually the second; because the official second sew in was canceled due to snow) Sew-In for the Webster Quilt Guild. We had so much fun. Some of us started as early as 8am and some stayed until 8pm. Twelve full uninterrupted hours of sewing... no phones, no kids, no husbands, no making meals, no anything but sewing! Here are some of the projects others were working on...

Cheryl was busy working on Market Bags that she will be donating to the Webster Quilt Show's boutique table. The monies raised from the sale of the items will be used to benefit the guild's scholarship fund.

Debbie was busing making sure her pieces were paired properly before she sewed them together. Her comment was, "As she sews, so shall she rip!"

Jennette was working hard on the Webster Guild's Block of the Month Sampler quilt. She was making sure she had all those pieces placed just right.

Marki had received a quilt kit from Quilts For Kids. It is an organization that offers quilts to comfort children in need. The kit comes with all the pieces cut, backing and easy to read directions. Marki pieced the quilt top in just a few short hours. Next she will sandwich the top, the backing and a batting that she'll supply and quilt it. She'll bind the quilt and place the label on that Quilts For Kids supplied to her. The quilt will be returned to the organization and will bring warmth, comfort and love to a child in need. Thank you Marki for your generosity! Make sure you check out Quilts For Kids website. If you decide to help this great cause, please be sure to drop me a line and let me know so that I can tell Marki that she inspired you.

Gretchen had a beautiful quilt she was machine quilting, that used Blank Textiles' Chelsea fabric. I think she used Quilter's Dream Green batting in this quilt.

Jill had some really pretty Four Patch Posies' blocks. Everyone was helping Jill decide which blocks should be placed where. Jill had made enough blocks to make two lap quilts. She is planning on making one to giveaway and keep one for herself. I can't wait to see the end results. Jill never disappoints!

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Let's Get Started!

2010-03-29T05:45:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Don't you think it's about time that I start my blocks for the Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along? I do!

Here is the jelly roll that I am using.


Verna by Kate Spain for Moda Fabrics

These blocks are so very easy to cut and sew. All the directions so far have been well written and easy to follow. The first block was designed by Konda Luckau, the second block was designed by April Mazzoleni. Here is my interpretation of them.

It is not too late to sign up and join along in the fun. They should be posting the designer and the directions for the third block today.
Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

PURE Happiness!

2010-03-28T10:32:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,
I won! I won! I won!

Yes, I won a charm pack from Sweetwater. PURE is a brand new line due out late Summer early Fall; the colors and fabric can be seen in their post here.

Now the question is what to make with this charm pack. The colors are a perfect coordinate to my daughter's dorm room quilt that I made her about three years ago when she began college life. What accent accessory ideas, for her dorm room, do you have for me to use this brand new charm pack?

Until next time…
Happy Quilting, Kathy

Wow! What a Quilt Show!

2010-03-24T11:29:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Here is a glimpse of the quilt show put on by the local quilt shop that I attended this past weekend. There were over 175 quilts; all made by the quilt shop's customers. Enjoy.

The aisles were packed with quilts downstairs...

upstairs...

Hand-quilted giant dahlia.

Many sampler quilts...

Some art pieced quilts...

Even a Sun Bonnet Sue or two...

Don't forget those great looking Stack-n-Whacks ..

Now this basket quilt is pretty... but this is the backside!

Here is a detail of the front side... all hand quilted. This was truly an exquisite quilt!

The Webster Quilt Guild had a table at which they were selling admission / door prize tickets to their upcoming quilt show.

If you are interested in purchasing an admission / door prize quilt ticket for $3 please let me know. Just comment here or send me an e-mail, and I will be sure to get you your ticket.The quilt that is displayed behind these ladies is the guild's door prize.

The show is Saturday, May 1st from 9am to 4pm at the United Methodist Church of Webster on Main Street in Webster,NY.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

Getting In The Mood for National Quilt Day

2010-03-19T13:48:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone,
I just had to run home and share with you some of the great quilts that were shared at the Webster guild meeting today.

Mary showed her Hokey Pokey quilt! If it looks familiar to you, you may have seen it on the cover of the current Keepsake Quilting catalog. Keepsake offers the pattern or a complete kit.

Pat delighted all of us with this huge quilt. Several years back it was offered as a block of the month at one of our local quilt shops.

Everyone oooohhhed and aaaaaahhhed when Sandy showed her butterfly wall hanging. She made it special with "sparkles" for her granddaughter.

Laure is in the process of quilting her Boston Commons, and was looking for advice on how to quilt those large border areas. I think she might continue the line(s) of quilting through to create a hatch marking effect.

All of us at the Webster Quilt Guild just can't wait until Lynn finishes hand quilting this beauty! It is called Inseparable. Just love it!

I hope that I have gotten you in the mood for National Quilt Day! I certainly am. How will you be celebrating "OUR" day? Will you visit a quilt show, sew with quilting friends, read a quilt magazine, buy luscious quilting fabrics, read blogs about quilting? No matter how you decide to celebrate be sure to enjoy the day.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

It's National Quilt Day!

2010-03-19T08:57:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,

I will be starting today to celebrate National Quilt Day!

I am off to the Webster Quilt guild; one of my local guilds. In honor of the actual day I will be going to a quilt show. The show is in East Rochester at the Piano Works Mall from 10am to 4pm and is sponsored by Patricias' Fabric House. So if your in the area be sure to stop by.

Why not leave me a comment and let me know how you will be celebrating National Quilt Day.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

When Irish Eyes are Smiling ...

2010-03-17T11:01:00.001-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

Where is Spring?

2010-03-04T06:27:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone,
I was trying really hard to find spring outside my window; and do you see what I saw?

Ahhhh yes it was two Cardinals amongst all that snow! Both the male and female. What a treat!

Well that was wonderful for outside but I really needed some spring inside too. So off to the longarm and what came off but not one, not two, not three but four beautiful floral placemats for my kitchen!
My kitchen counter now has a wonderful touch of spring.
Please let me know how you're adding a touch of spring to you home.

Happy Quilting, Kathy

Won't You Join Me?

2010-02-25T09:20:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone,
Did you notice that I have added a bit of pizazz to my blog sidebar? I have a new button! It really is not my button but a button that belongs to Moose on the Porch Quilts. They are starting a Jelly Roll (or using 2 1/2" strips from your stash), sampler quilt. I have made the commitment to join along and make the sampler! Won't you join me?

They have several guest designers lined up (designing the blocks) and some wonderful giveaways along the way. It starts in March, with a new block every two weeks! Which really means a completed quilt top by the beginning of August! How great is that?

You'll join me won't you? Hurry on over to find out the details and sign up! Jelly Roll Sampler Quilt Along

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

Need A Guild Charity Quilt?

2010-02-17T07:46:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone,

This past fall my friend Cheryl persuaded me to join the Webster Quilt Guild of which she is a member. There total membership currently is eighty-six. It is a wonderful group of women doing all different kinds of activities. The guild encourages each of their members to make a baby size quilt (40" x 55") to be donated to the Asbury House in Rochester. Asbury House distributes donated clothing, kitchenware, and bedding free to people who are referred from social agencies, health care facilities and churches in the Rochester area. Last year the Webster Quilt Guild donated 72 baby quilts! With this in mind, Cheryl and I decided to share this project.

I suggested to Cheryl, that because of my other guild (Genesee Valley) and other commitments that I have, that I really did not have time to create a quilt top and back and I would make a deal with her. If she made the quilt tops and back that I would supply the batting and quilt the baby quilts. She agreed and so started this venture.

Cheryl went to her stash of fabric, started cutting and piecing two identical quilts. I suggested that when she pieces the quilts that she makes them as one unit. This way when I load the quilts onto the longarm the quilts are quilted as one unit. So Cheryl pieced the two quilts with a double wide border plus 2" in between the two quilts. Here is what it looked like before I started to quilt them.

I quilted the two baby quilts with a wonderful design called Sweet Hearts Simple by Kim Diamond.
Cheryl did such a great job with the joined quilts! She even made labels for us and the binding too!

Here are the two quilts finished and ready to be donated. I think they came out great!
If you have a charity quilt donation project in your guild, maybe you can find a friend to make joined quilts with. Or why not make up two donation quilts at one time and join them with an extra wide common border - you'll have two done in no time at all!

Be sure to leave me a comment about what types of donation quilts you make for your guild.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

LQS Closing (Sort Of)

2010-02-04T06:45:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone,
I received an email the other day from Sew On-Sew Forth, that stated the Rochester store in Henrietta will be consolidating with their Buffalo store. To help with the consolidation the Rochester store is having a Blow Out Event.
The event will take place this week and weekend as follows: Thursday (5pm-8pm), Friday (10 am-5pm) and Saturday (10am-3pm). Next week the event will only be on Friday (Feb.12) and Saturday (Feb.13). The Rochester store's last day of normal operation is scheduled for this Saturday (Feb.6).

You might remember, that is the shop where we had those great Sunday Sew Days, and the shop that brought us Terry Atkinson and My Blog Giveaway.

I will miss the shop, the laughter, and the fun with friends both old and new. I know that I will miss the great people that work there even more.

Until next time…

Happy Quilting, Kathy

February Newsletter

2010-02-03T07:17:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that our February Newsletter will be coming out later this week. Be sure to click either on the newspaper and coffee logo in this post or on the sidebar to sign up! It only takes a moment.

Learn, Laugh, Quilt

2010-01-21T06:35:00.001-05:00

Sixteen gathered this past Sunday at Sew On-Sew Forth for another Sunday Sew. I managed to get a binding sewn on a Charity quilt that I am doing for the Webster Quilt Guild. I'll let you know more about that project in a future post.

There was all kinds of activity going on; at times it almost sounded like a sweat shop.
Here is a peek at a couple of the projects that people were working on.

One women was working on making yo-yos and appliqueing them on to beautiful blocks that already had some applique on them.

Here are just a couple of stunting shades of brown blocks that were being made.

My friend Myra was busy paper piecing a wonderful wall quilt that she plans to hang in her Art Room. Myra does so many beautiful art projects - so she has an Art Room; not just a sewing or quilting room. This particular paper pieced wall hanging was on the cover of the November 2009 issue of American Quilter; it is entitled "Circle of Fire". I can't wait until Myra finishes it!

I really think the project of the day was Four-Patch Posies; or some variation there of. I think four people were working on quilts using the Four-Patch Posies' technique.

PJ, another quilter that was sewing on Sunday had two really terrific tips; although not necessarily quilt related.Her first tip was to place a small, very small amount of hot glue on the bottom side of a D-ring when constructing purse handles to keep the ring in place - so it doesn't turn on you.

Her second tip involved these lovely kids ponytail hair scrunches.

PJ places them on her bobbins to keep the thread on the bobbins from tangling up with everything else.

Other projects that were going on ranged from notebook covers to purses to piecing quilt tops and backs. It was a beehive of activity!

Be sure to find some time in the New Year to go and sew with others. I guarantee you that it will be a very rewarding experience. I not only got a binding on a quilt, but in the process I met some really nice people!

Happy 2010!

2010-01-02T06:45:00.001-05:00

While I was out for a walk around the block I came upon these two cuties...

Then I walked a little further and saw this handsome man who had been celebrating New Years.

Thank you for all the wonderful support, comments and emails over this past year. I appreciate all of them. It has been fun meeting new people, reading old and new blogs and quilting some beautiful quilts for you. I wish for all of you that 2010 is full of happiness, prosperity, good health and many quilts!
Kathy

Holiday Celebration GVQC Style

2009-12-18T06:48:00.000-05:00

Each year the Genesee Valley Quilt Club has a holiday celebration. This year was no exception. A new twist to our Silent Auction festivities was having all hand made items to bid on.
Ladies... bid high and bid often!
Mmmmm ... let's see how much should I bid?
Ohhhhhh look at that tote all made from batiks! How lovely!
There is a gift for a young reader, or how about those coasters for a hostess?

We also have a table centerpiece competition. Here are a few of the entries ..
Did you guess the winner? Why it was "Life is a bowl of Quilting!" That table won the honor of going first to the elaborate buffet that we had. I believe that there were five or maybe six banquet tables end to end of food ...
Mmmmmmm...Mmmmmmm...Really goooooood!!!
I hope all of you have a wonderful and joyous holiday season.
Be sure to find some quilt time for yourself and enjoy your families and friends.
Kathy

Four Winners Plus One Extra!

2009-12-17T05:45:00.000-05:00

First and foremost, I want to thank each of you who have come to visit me at my blog, read my words, commented, became followers, those that linked to me, and those that entered my giveaway - thank you, thank you, thank you!
I have enjoyed visiting ALL your blogs, and hopefully responded to all your comments. What a talented group of people!

On to the winners. This is my very first blog giveaway. I decided to use Random Number Generator, because it was there and fun. Here are the winning numbers and the winning people follow:The winners, in order are:
#69, Arlette you have won the pattern Fire Escape
#15, Treasuresofjoy you have won the pattern Happy Holidays
#64, Vesuviusmama you have won the book Big Bags little bags
#35, Mary on Lake Pulaski you have won the book Let's Do Lunch
#26, Patty you have won the pattern Pie Crust Pile-Up

You will notice that I have chosen five winners. I decided that this is so much fun, that I am giving away Terry Atkinson's pattern Pie Crust Pile-Up, to the fifth person. I just finished making this quilt. It is a great pattern, as are all of Terry's patterns.Congratulations to all of you! Please e-mail me your snail mail addresses so that I may send your prize to you.

I am looking forward to seeing many of you again.
Once again, thank you all!
Kathy

Tuesday Night Quilter's Holiday Get Together

2009-12-16T15:17:00.007-05:00

The Tuesday Night Quilters' holiday get together was this past week. We had so much fun. We all met at Cindy's new house. She had it decorated for the holidays and what made it even more special were all her quilts that were hanging and drape wherever you looked. Here is the coffee table starting to fill up with our gifts for the gift exchange. There were only three show and shares for the evening. Katie made the cutest baby quilt. I didn't get my camera ready in time for a photo. :( I did manage to take a picture of the two terrific table runners that Chris made. Don't you think that the red cardinals are festive?
Pattie seems to be one of the prolific quilters in the group. Here is another Happy Holidays table topper that she made for her home. I just love the red!
Seeing Pattie's Happy Holidays table topper, reminds me that time is starting to run out on my Terry Atkinson giveaway! If you haven't done so yet, be sure to read and comment on the previous post about Terry Atkinson's visit to Rochester.
Kathy

Atkinson Event and A Giveaway!

2009-11-29T22:45:00.003-05:00

What great fun we all had at the Terry Atkinson Event that Sew On-Sew Forth sponsored earlier this month. I have put together a short (2 minute) video of some photos from the day.[My very first video!]

Terry's books and patterns were well represented by the entries for the sewing machine giveaway. I'm sure you are all wondering who won the sewing machine that Sew On-Sew Forth was giving away in honor of Terry Atkinson's visit. Drum roll please ... the winner was ...

Darla from Buffalo.She made the Breadbox Bag from Terry Atkinson's bag book Big Bags little bags. The bag had hand sewn crystal beads and crystal bead handles. (My photography doesn't do it justice!)

In honor of Terry's event here in Rochester, I have decided to have a giveaway of my own. You have the opportunity to win one of the following:

Terry's newest quilt pattern: Fire Escape

Terry's newest table topper / tree skirt pattern: Happy Holidays

Terry's bag book: Big Bags little bags

or Terry's latest book on bags and table toppers: Let's Do Lunch

Here's the scoop (what you need to do to be entered)...
1. Write a comment on this post for one entry.
2. For a second entry, become a follower of my blog and then write another comment on this post letting me know you are a new follower.
3. If you are already a follower, just remind me in a separate comment on this post.
4. Blog about the giveaway and link back to my blog, leave another comment on this post for a third entry.
5. For a fourth entry, tell me what you would like to see on my blog and leave me a comment on this post :).

Each comment on this post must be separate so you will have 4 chances to win if you do every item! They all must be individual comments so that I can keep track.

***You must also have a way for me to contact you, email or blog is fine.***

The giveaway will remain open until Midnight EST on December 16. I will do the drawing on December 17, 2009.

Good Luck to everyone!!

Tuesday Night Quilters

2009-11-18T09:52:00.009-05:00

Last night the Tuesday Night Quilters met. (Do we need a more original name than that or what?) We all had a quick bite to eat and then it was time for Show and Share.

Lisa and Katie just finished up a craft show this past weekend. I attended the show in Henrietta and all I have to say is Wow! There was lots of variety and really something for everyone. Here is a really cute tote that Katie had at the show. Any avid birder would want this tote.
Katie also had this adorable Advent Calendar. What a cute idea. How much fun it would be to search for the date to find a little something in the pocket in anticipation for Christmas?

Kristine, who was new to our group this evening brought along this dramatic Babbles and Beads quilt. I believe her husband choose the border fabric. How's that for support on a project?

Pattie brought along her finished top of our Keyboard Kaleidoscope quilt project. What a great idea to use a stripe fabric for the keyboard, don't you think?

Pattie also brought along a terrific looking Happy Holidays table topper. It just needs a binding and it will be perfect for my kitchen!
Seeing Pattie's table topper reminds me that Terry Atkinson will be here in Rochester this Friday! I'm soooooo excited; I can't wait!

If you have any ideas for a more original name for our Tuesday Night Quilters; please leave me a comment and I'll be sure pass the ideas on. Thanks.

GVQC - Genesee Valley Quilt Club

2009-11-14T15:10:00.008-05:00

This past Thursday, the monthly meeting of the GVQC started to gather around 9am. This photo only shows about a quarter of the activity taking place before our business meeting which starts at 10:15.

There are several activities happening during that hour and fifteen minutes. I'll share just a few with you.

Our club has monthly workshops that are put on by our guest speaker for that month. Here you see Nancy explaining to Karla (a new member), about some of the upcoming workshops.

Each month our guild has a monthly raffle, ($1 per chance) to benefit some aspect of our guild. The quilt each month is donated by a member. Here you see Margaret, in her fancy hat, selling tickets for that beautiful Christmas quilt behind her. This months winner was Patti Goodwin. The club raised over $200 for our Comfort Quilt Committee.

Quilt basting was taking place near the back of the room. Lynn, Beth, Ann and Meg were busy placing stitches in Ann's quilt.

Once the business meeting started it was packed with tons of information.
Our guild had decided to dedicate some of our money to co-sponsoring with the Arts Council of Greater Rochester, grants for fiber artists. What a wonderful idea and it will be great fun to see who applies for the grants.
We again were sponsoring the quilt group which is under the auspices of Compeer, a local peer mentoring group here in Rochester. All funding has been cut severely here in New York state for such organizations, and it is wonderful that the guild saw fit to give a very generous donation to them as well!

A major announcement that took place during the business meeting was:

Yes, the 2011 Genesee Quilt Fest will be held at RIT on June 3, 4 and 5. Lisa Feor, Julie Brandon, and myself will be joined by Val Schultz as the quilt show chairs. We are all so very excited! If you want to see what our 2009 show looked like, take a look at my June Post.

After the business meeting, we had Show and Tell. What wonderful, beautiful quilts were shown. Here are just a couple:

... and then Ann showed us her beautiful quilt that was being basted. She is certainly one of our star hand quilters! She is an expert in all phases of applique and quilting. I can't wait to see this done - her hand quilting is exquisite! The border design she appliqued here is based on her Welsh roots.

Everyone took a break for lunch before our guest speaker took the floor. Paula Schultz who owns a shop called Cotton, Etc. near Oneida,NY was our speaker Thursday. She is a wearable artist and did a trunk show for us. She spoke on her inspirations, and showed a variety of garments. Paula encouraged each of us to enter juried competitions and challenges.

To round out the afternoon, several other groups,(Vintage Quilt Study, Fiber Artist, In-house Workshops) got together after Paula was finished. It is always a very fun filled day at GVQC.

Blank Day: Fabric Speaks

2009-11-09T22:20:00.015-05:00

This past weekend in Spencerport, NY at Betty's Quilting Etc. Dolores Joshua the Blank Fabric representative paid a visit. Dolores was nice enough to spend her Sunday afternoon showing us all of the latest and greatest that Blank Fabric has to offer. Nancy Dill, the owner of Betty's Quilting Etc. wanted her customers to help decide what we (the customers) would like Betty's to carry. I thought this was a great idea. It's lots of fun for the customers, Nancy gets a better idea what her customers like and Dolores get to hear feedback from quilters who buy Blank Fabric.

Dolores said that for the first time in quilt history, designers today are dedicated to designing for quilters in mind. Quilters are not needing to use the scraps from dresses, shirts or other clothing, as they did in the 30's, to make and design quilts.

Dolores introduced the "KISS" quilt concept to the group. Keep It Simple Sewing quilts. These are Opportunity quilts. Quilts that we all need and want to make for charity, for someone who we may work with whose daughter's friend had a baby and we feel the need to make a quilt for them as a gift. She also suggested to listen to the fabric, let the fabric speak to you.

Here are a couple of great quilt tops with this concept in mind:

This Coverlet fabric line designed by Mary Koval, for Blank Fabric makes a great looking Opportunity quilt. The entire center of this quilt is one piece of fabric. Can you imagine how impressive this top will be once it is quilted? Wouldn't you be pleased to give this top away?
This next Opportunity quilt uses the Shade Cascade line from Blank Fabric. What a stunning two or three hour to piece baby quilt for that co-worker's daughter's friend; don't you think?

How about using a black and white print, some Pentel Fabric Fun crayons, that you heat set to make this exquisite Opportunity quilt?
Or maybe you want to create a quilt with a little more piecing for someone using some black and white fabrics from Blank. Here is a really striking quilt that has had a few select blocks colored again using those Pentel Fabric Fun crayons.

What about creating a patch posies/kaleidoscope quilt without all the extra work by using Blank's Iris Fantasy fabric line.

Here Dolores shows us the fabric board for Mirabella in a beautiful blue and yellow combo.

This quilt made from the Mirabella fabric line from Blank Fabric, is called Irish Reel and can be found at QuiltWoman.com. You will notice that Nancy is pointing to the points; or should I say lack of points on this quilt next to the inner border. The construction of this quilt is all made in straight square rows - not on point. So if you are not real fussy about cutting points off near the border, and you want an easy pattern to make then this may be just the one.

Here are just two more fabric boards, out of the dozens that we saw on Sunday.
Garden Party fabric line:
Deco Rose fabric line would make a really fantastic Stack-n-Whack quilt:

I just thought this bag that Dolores showed from Cheryl Burgess called Show and Tell was a neat bag to carry all your quilts to a guild meeting. There is an open ended zipper on the top.

Dolores Joshua from Blank Fabric gave an informative and thought provoking presentation. I encourage all of you who happen to be lucky enough to have Dolores for your Blank Fabric representative to have her give a presentation in your shop for your customers. If you are a customer why not ask your shop to have Dolores for an afternoon; so you too can learn all about how to listen to what the fabric is saying.

Be sure to leave me a comment and let me know which Blank Fabrics you like and how you might use them.

Giveaway from Quilt Market

2009-11-01T08:54:00.007-05:00

Jackie from Canton Village Quiltworks is having a giveaway on her blog ... hurry over and comment to win! There is not much time left to enter. She is giving away 5 really neat prizes ... including a Moda Sampler Box (brand new item),
layer cake and jelly roll, a book and more...
I must say I really do want the layer cake and jelly roll! Love Chez Moi.

WIN A GREAT SEWING MACHINE

2009-10-30T10:03:00.007-04:00

Sew On - Sew Forth is having a terrific challenge! In honor of Terry Atkinson coming to Rochester and Buffalo (November 20th and 21st - respectively), they are giving away one sewing machine between there two locations. Sew (lol) I'm sure you want to know the details on this challenge.
Here are the basics:

Using Terry Atkinson designed fabric, either Paisley Party or Neutral Territory lines, and using one of her designs from one of her books or patterns

You may embellish or customize any of Terry's patterns or designs any way you like. Creativity is AWESOME, however you must use one of her designs as a base for your creation.

You must use at least 75% of one of Terry's two fabric lines (Paisley Party; Neutral Territory)

Submissions are due in either the Rochester store or Buffalo store by November 16th.

For more detailed info on this challenge and the opportunity to win that great Project Runway sewing machine by Brother, click here.

To help more of you meet this challenge, why not join me on November 7th at the Rochester Sew On - Sew Forth store for my Happy Holidays class that was in my last post? Call Kathy at (585) 427-0080 or email her at sewonsewforth@aol.com to register for this class.

Happy Holidays Table Topper

2009-10-26T21:09:00.007-04:00

As promised in the last post here is one of my fall Happy Holidays table toppers.

Isn't Terry's pattern striking?

Why not join me Saturday morning, November 7th and make your very own Happy Holidays table topper? Or maybe you need a new tree skirt for yourself or as a gift for a newly married couple. How about a little tree skirt for that someone special in an apartment or nursing home? Terry Atkinson's pattern Happy Holidays, goes together effortlessly. Using Terry's easy method of turning simple rectangles into triangles - you'll have your top done in no time flat.You won't be able to make just one! I couldn't!

Here are the details for Happy Holidays Class.

Saturday, November 7th
10am - 3pm
Sew On - Sew Forth (Henrietta, NY)
Call Kathy (585) 427-0080 to sign up.
Cost $35 plus supplies.
A pdf supply list is available when you register.

When you call Kathy at Sew On-Sew Forth be sure to mention to her that you read about this class on my blog.

In my next post I will fill you in on the Challenge that Sew On-Sew Forth is having. They will be giving away a new sewing machine!

Sunday Sew Day

2009-10-18T21:10:00.017-04:00

It was the first Sunday Sew Day at Sew On-Sew Forth in Henrietta this weekend. There was a small crowd that gathered from 11am to 4pm. When we arrived something good was brewing in the kitchen for our taste buds later in the day.
Everyone found a spot to set up and started to sew. Here's a look at what some were up to...

Cheryl was busy learning how to make lace embroidered Christmas ornaments on her sewing machine. I hope that I'll be a happy recipient of one of her handmade ornaments this year! (Hint, hint.)

Dot was learning about all the new stitches on her new sewing machine. She made a great festive pumpkin for the season and was trying out some really neat decorative stitches. I can't wait to see the final pumpkin!

Next thing I know, Kathy the manager of Sew On-Sew Forth was ringing the snack bell. It was time for a little refreshment break. Apple cider, some homemade chicken stew, Italian bread and 'Danny' baked some decorative cookies for dessert.

One more peek at what was happening at Sunday Sew Day...

I guess all this cold weather we have been having has lent itself to all of us thinking about the upcoming holidays. Deb was pin basting her turkey (LOL)!

Sew On-Sew Forth just got in the current Terry Atkinson's line of fabric from Red Rooster. Here is just a glimpse of some of it....

Is it not luscious? I have already started working on a project or two using the Neutral Territory fabric line. I will be teaching one of Terry Atkinson's new patterns (Happy Holidays) at Sew On-Sew Forth in Henrietta on Saturday, November 7th. I hope some of you will join me then.

When I finish up my Happy Holidays table topper, I will post some photos and fill you in on how and where to sign up for my class. As a side note Terry herself will be coming to Rochester just before Thanksgiving bringing a trunk show and giving a lecture/demo. Stay tuned for more details on that as well.

Until next time, keep on piecin' - Kathy

Garden of Quilts Quilt Festival

2009-06-16T11:17:00.003-04:00

The past few weeks I have been consumed with the Genesee Valley Quilt Show, Garden of Quilts. As many of you know I was one of three Quilt Show Chairs and the Vendor Coordinator for the show. Here are some pictures from start to finish of the show over the four day period.

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Gordon Field House size: 60,000 square feet. An empty field house.

Starting of pipe and drape.

By 11:30am on Thursday, we have a little more pipe and drape hung.

It's 12 noon and it is time to start to take in quilts for the show.

"Now, where does this quilt go?"

We are making progress.

We're getting there.

Looking good!

Vendors start to move in as early as 8:00am on Friday.

Some finishing touches for the quilts.

Pillowcase Party gets all set up. You could rest for a bit at the show and make a pillowcase for one of our community out reach programs.

The other side of the field house.

"Where is all this going to fit?"

Just about there.

Here is the True Creations booth. My daughter, Andreana and my husband, Jim stand proudly in our booth. I had Andreana and Jim man my booth the entire time during the show. My first job at the show was that of Vendor Coordinator, my second job was being one of the Quilt Show chairs; and then there was no more room for any more jobs. It was soooooo much fun!

Looks like the vendors are ready for the show to start.

That is until someone decides 15 minutes before the show is about to open that we need a little excitement and they bump a row of quilts.

Everyone pitches in and helps.

We reset the quilt row and are ready within the 15 minutes. The attendees were none the wiser.

Opening ceremony begins promptly at 5:00pm on Friday.

The ribbon is cut, and the show is officially open!

The show floor is busy as a beehive on Saturday morning at 11:30am.

Over 2500 attended the show over the 2 1/2 days. (Friday evening, all day Saturday and all day Sunday.) There were over 900 beautiful quilts on display. It was breath taking! It was amazing! There was plenty of room to stand back and admire the quilts, take photos and really enjoy the show and all it had to offer.

At the Pillowcase Party booth, Julie (one of the co-chairs) and my husband Jim take a few minutes to make some pillowcases.

We take a few moments upstairs to enjoy some lunch and all say, "Next time ....."

Towards the back of the field house we had classroom areas set up.

Here is a glimpse of a class in session.

Vintage quilts hung around the outside areas of the classroom space.

This shot over looks the show floor from the balcony. The balcony was a great place to relax, enjoy some food, and absorb the beauty of the quilt show. It was magnificent! There were art quilts; pieced quilts; quilts made by first time quilters; applique quilts; small quilts; big quilts; wall quilts; all kinds of quilts could be found at this show!

With 44 vendors, from CT, VT, NH, MA, OH, MI, PA and NY state; everyone was able to find something of interest.

It's Sunday evening and the show has ended. The vendors are starting to move out.

Quilts are starting to come down.

The field house is just about empty.

The quilts are down, the vendors are gone.

It is just about time to turn down the lights.

Until our next show; which is tentatively planned for June 2011!.
I hope you enjoyed the quilt show process. We are already starting to think about the next one; how we can make it even better.

To Market, to Market in Pittsburgh, PA

2009-05-25T13:29:00.013-04:00

When you arrive at Quilt Market you see this welcoming sign.

As you enter the floor this awaits you ...

... and this is only half the floor!

There was booth after booth after booth. Here is a look at Terry Atikinson's booth. It was just filled with fun. On display were quilts from her book, Fat Quarter Fonts and bags from her new book, Big Bags, little bags.

Another booth was filled with laughter from Mary and Barb, (Me and My Sister Designs) as they were having way too much fun during a book signing. Their new book Four-Patch Frolic from Martingale and Company will be available in early June. There are 15 patterns in this book. The quilts are designed with 5" squares, 10" squares and fat quarters in mind.

Their booth was filled with quilts using their new line of fabric, Birdie. This line should be available at quilt shops in September.

It seemed that no matter where you looked you could find bags, totes, and purses.

Be sure to check back again for another installment about Quilt Market.
Kathy

Pittsburgh and Quilt Market

2009-05-19T16:12:00.021-04:00

We are back from Pittsburgh and Quilt Market. I am just getting the feeling back in my feet. We took some advice from Mark Lipinski's April / May 2009 issue of Quilter's Home magazine about his hometown - Pittsburgh. What a wonderful city it is! Intimate and pedestrian friendly. There were little parks and squares all around. A little bit of a hill here and there; something which you don't see in most downtown city areas. Tall interesting buildings, great sculptures, and plenty of little restaurants and eateries. Which brings me to a resturant that Mark recommended - Primanti Brothers. We had the Pittsburgh classic (as Mark refers to it); a sandwich with meat, cloeslaw, French fries, tomatoes and cheese all on one huge Italian loaf! It was quite and experience. Speaking of Mark, we were able to track him down at Market for another photo with the camera this time. I don't know if this one is any better than the one with the camera phone. Maybe it's my photographer?

Thanks Mark for indulging me again.

Thursday night was Sample Spree. You can get your hands on the newest, greatest, latest and almost on the market stuff. Like fabric, more fabric, patterns, books, and more fabric. It is an experience to say the least. Here is the Moda table all set; waiting for the Sample Spree to begin. Can you guess what is going to happen to this table?

If you guessed this:

or this:
then you were right!

Which Moda fabrics do I have?

How about some Bali Pops?
That's is just a taste of what was the beginning of a fun Quilt Market experience. I'll have more to share in the days to come.
Kathy

In New Hampshire for Machine Quilter's Exposition (MQX)

2009-05-01T08:07:00.016-04:00

At the last minute we made the decision to go to the Machine Quilter's Exposition in Manchester, NH. What a great time. I decided to take a class from Elaine Huffman. We made "Arm Candy"! This bag is made from double sided quilted fabric. It has a zippered pocket on the inside and all the seams are enclosed.

Of course because we left at the drop of a hat, I had no supplies with me for the class. Fortunately sewing machines were provided and Elaine had one piece of double sided quilted fabric that she was willing to part with. All I had to do is fine some thread and a piece of fabric for the inside pocket. As part of the class the pattern and a zipper were provided. It was so nice just to sit and sew for myself. This bag was finished in less than four hours. If you are looking for a really nice gift for someone special this bag just may be the ticket. The Gum Drop Bag finishes nicely. If you pick up the pattern make sure to tell Elaine I sent you.

Just before my class I ran into the creator of Quilter's Home. I'm sure you know the magazine.

While talking with Mark my husband decided we needed a picture for the blog. So quick find the camera. Oooooh yeaaaah, it's in the room. Good place for it! So the next best thing was my husband's cell phone camera. So as you can see, Mark is crystal clear and well I'm a little fuzzy. That will teach us to have the camera with us at all times.

Of course since I was in New Hampshire I had to visit one of my all time favorite quilt shops, Quilted Threads. The shop is wonderful; and the staff is cheerful and very helpful. One of the displays they had was from when Mark was there.

I just love this shop!

Next year MQX will be moving to Providence, RI. I'm not sure if I will be going. There are rumblings that the Statler Users Group And Representatives (SUGAR) will be meeting in Columbia, MO. Last year the conference was held just before the Machine Quilter's Showcase (MQS) show. MQS is the midwest version of MQX. So if the SUGAR conference is at or near the same time MQS is next year I might just have to go to that show instead.

Keep on piecing those tops,
Kathy

Quilt Shows and Therapy, The Scrap Kind

2009-03-17T17:29:00.022-04:00

I have been remiss about posting the past few weeks. There has been so much going on at True Creations and as some of you know I am the Vendor Coordinator for the Genesee Valley Quilt Club, Garden of Quilts Show.

This show is going to be held at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Gordon Field House in early June. I do hope that if you are in the area you'll stop by and say hello. Be sure to check out the show's website.www.geneseequiltfest.com

I recently attended a sew night that the Irondequoit Quilt Club was hosting.

They invited Joan Ford, the creator of Scrap Therapy to give a presentation. I was amazed at what wonderful quilts can be created from those left over scraps! The scrap therapy program is two part. The first part is a workshop on the cutting and organizing of your scraps; the second part is a workshop on actually using those scraps and creating a beautiful scrap quilt. I am still cutting scraps! My friend Katie has attended the cutting workshop and a couple of scrap quilt classes and has some really stunning quilts to show for her efforts.

I am waiting to see what kinds of Scrap Therapy quilts my friend Cheryl comes up with. She is the one that invited me to tag along for the cutting workshop that the Irondequoit Quilt Club held. The patterns are only available at participating Scrap Therapy quilt shops.

For those of you that are in the Rochester area I would like to invite you to celebrate National Quilt Day by coming to a quilt show sponsored by Patricias' Fabric House. Each March and August, Kitty, the owner of Patricias', holds a quilt show of customer's quilts. The show is this Saturday, March 21st at the Pianoworks Mall in East Rochester from 10am to 4pm. The quilts are always spectacular. She also has a sale going on in the quilt shop. 25% Off Quilting Cottons and Notions!

If you go to the quilt show, please stop by my table and let me know what you think about my blog.

Make sure you check out this 30's quilt at the show. Cindy made this quilt in one of my Create A Quilt classes.

Keep piecing those tops,
Kathy

Lil' Zipper Bag Completed

2009-02-01T20:53:00.011-05:00

I told you I needed to make one of these cute Lil' Zipper Bags.

I did make a couple of changes though. When I sewed my 1 1/2" strips, I did a sew and flip technique; that way I did not have to go back and stitch in the ditch. I used a pretty fabric for the inside instead of muslin.

All done sewing the strips on. Then I squared the strip set; and serged the edges.

I added my zipper and did an extra top stitching to hold the edge of the zipper tape away from the teeth - so I don't catch the fabric in the zipper.

Pretty inside as well as out.

And it holds alot....

I am sure that you have all been to Moda Bakeshop to view the tutorial on this bag. To get some insight from the designer of this terrific Lil' Zipper Bag you really need to go over to Mid-Ohio Knitter's blog. Vickie has a nice blog and I think you might enjoy what she has to offer; especially her current giveaway. Just make a comment about this Lil Zipper Bag, and you'll be entered in her current giveaway.

I would like to offer my congratulations to Vickie for being a designer on the Moda Bakeshop blog.

I can't wait to see the Lil Zipper Bags that all of you make. It only took me an hour from start to finish!

Now go on over to Vickie's blog - and be sure to comment. Go on get over there and enter to win her giveaway!
Kathy

Gotta Go Here!

2009-02-01T19:55:00.007-05:00

The last few days I have been looking around at other sites and blogs.
I found one that I think you might enjoy.

Go here and have a look.....

awesome and fun tutorials.... I love it already!

"Lil' Zipper Bag" ... I definitely need to make a few of these.
I'm sure my friend Myra will be making a few too.

Have fun checking out this new site and making some great
"Lil' Zipper Bags"!
Kathy

Great Start and Setting Goals

2009-01-11T09:02:00.013-05:00

The new year has arrived and I haven't wasted anytime. I have started quilting beautiful tops that my clients have brought to me. It is so much fun seeing what they have created. I treat each quilt top as if it were my own creation. I really want them to be delighted with the end results.

I have finished the pillowcases for Jackie's guild project, The Hole In The Wall Gang. They came out sooooo cute. Don't you agree?

This year I have set a couple of personal quilting goals for myself.
1. I would like to do some type of quilting activity each week or every other week that I am involved with other quilting friends. This can range from having lunch/diner with them, going on a shop hop, working on personal quilt projects at a sew-in, attending a quilt related function (ie tea, meeting, etc.); you get the idea. My friend Cheryl is awesome at this!
2. I would like to work on getting some of my own quilt tops turned into quilts. As many of you, I too have many, many quilt tops just waiting for the quilting. I think I will need to find some personal time to quilt my quilt tops.
Those two goals should keep my personal life busy.

Now for a couple of True Creations' professional goals.
1. I would like to continue to promote True Creations in new and different ways. Not sure where I am taking this goal yet. Maybe through quilt shows, new types of promotions, teaching quilt classes, but definitely here on my blog.
2. I want to offer to my clients something new this year that I haven't offered in the past. What will that be? We will have to see....
3. I would like to be able to offer my clients short turnaround times for edge to edge quilts that they bring me. (Prehaps they will post a comment this year on how I am doing with this goal.)
4. I would like to increase my regular client base by adding ten new clients. Will you be one of those?
5. I would like to network more with my Statler Siblings. We are a very large group that all own Statlers and the Creative Studio program that run our computer aided longarm machines.

I think that those seven goals, (two personal and five professional), are a pretty good start and should keep me busy.

Until my next post, keep piecing so that you can help me achieve some of my goals.
Kathy

Personal Projects Revealed

2008-12-30T00:13:00.018-05:00

Now that the holiday season is about over I can reveal the rest of the personal projects that I have been working on.

The first project was four pairs of pajama pants. Two pair for my daughter and two pair for my son. Her's were soooooo much easier to assemble (no fly required). I use a basic McCalls pattern #4320; then enhanced the pattern to create a fly closure for the two pair for my son.

Next was the Nouveau Hobo Bag by Indygo Junction. My friend, Cheryl made this bag all out of batiks. It is quite eye-catching. She made the larger version as did I. It holds alot! The bag is almost 17" deep. I choose to quilt the bag fabric and the handle strap. The bag is fully lined. I again made changes to the designer's pattern by adding additional large sewn-in pockets on both the front and back of the lining pieces; and made a continous shoulder strap. The original pattern calls for a button closure strap. I felt that the way in which my daughter would be using the bag a solid shoulder strap was more practical.

My daughter is traveling this winter break and is in need of some hostess gifts. I know just the ticket - those great Fat Sacks from Terry Atkinson's November 7th blog posting. (My fellow blogger Jackie alerted me to this blog and pattern.) Like Terry, I made them out of Amy Butler's decorator fabric. I am amazed at how much they hold!

I still have a few pillowcases to make for Jackie. She and her guild committed to 300 pillowcases for a local Connecticut charity, Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang. I decided to help her out and offered to make a few for her. (See Jackie's December 13th posting.)

I want to wish all of you a warm and joyous holiday season with good health and many quilts in the coming year. Kathy

Tuesday Night Quilters' Holiday Bash

2008-12-10T00:31:00.029-05:00

Here are a couple more of my personal quilting and sewing projects that I have been working on for the holiday season.

There is a group of now ten fun loving quilters that get together each month to socialize, eat, do show and tell, maybe work on a project - you know anything that is remotely related to quilting.

Tuesday evening, Cindy was gracious enough to open her home to us for a Holiday Get Together. Her house was decorated to the ninths. Sorry, I didn't bring the camera. :( But I did take her a travel size bottle of Mary Ellen's Best Press with a cute little cover that I made as a hostess thank you gift. Cindy just loves 30's reproduction prints. I got the pattern from Terry Atkinson Designs' blog. Click here and look at Terry's November 14th entry and you'll find directions for all the different size bottles of the Best Press products. Terry's blog was recommended by a fellow blogger, Jackie of Canton Village Quilt Works in Connecticut. Click here to check out Jackie's blog.

We had plenty of food to eat. Anything from subs, to cookies, to brie, to veggies with dip, hollowed out bread with dip and it would not have been complete if we didn't have a little chocolate too. Well, okay maybe alot of chocolate. There was drink to be had by all as well.

We played a gift passing game, that Karen came up with. Each person brought a wrapped gift. We each drew a number from one to ten. There were ten of us. Person number one chooses a gift, unwraps it, and everyone ooooooossss and haaaaaaas. Then person number two can either take the gift that number one has, or chooses another wrapped gift and unwraps it. If person two takes person one's gift, then person one chooses a new wrapped gift. Person three and all others get to either take a wrapped gift or steel someone else's gift. When the last person goes they get to either take the last wrapped gift - then the game is over; or more exciting is for the last person to steel someone else's gift. At that point in time you have one minute to continue to steel gifts; or if someone chooses the wrapped gift, the game ends. At the end of one minute whatever you have in your possession is yours to keep. If you have no gift you receive the last wrapped gift.

The gift box that I took was wrapped in brown paper with a green paper ribbon. Inside the box was a copy of WRBQ (We'd Rather Be Quilting) Northeast book. The book has cross reference travel maps of the northeast states; pages of alphabetically listed quilt shops by state; listings of professional quilters (That's where True Creations is located in the book.); a full color section of quilting related businesses all across the country just for quilters and another section devoted to events that list shows and shop hops in each region by date.

The other little something that was in the brown paper wrapping was a Tuckaway Tote. You see the tote is the perfect companion for the WRBQ book. The tote folds into its own outside pocket. The tote can then easily be stored in your purse or in your car ready to accept all those wonderful new treasures that you'll find when you visit the quilt shops or quilt shows that are listed in the book. Pattie was the lucky holder at the last five seconds!

I received the most wonderful smelling and beautiful Christmas center piece that Donna made. I think I will keep the tray that she made it in, so that next year I can ask her to make me another one.

A great time was had by all at our Holiday Bash. We'll meet again in January for dinner and show and share.

Kathy

Here's a Glimpse

2008-12-03T11:49:00.010-05:00

Some of you have been inquiring about what I am working on other than customer's quilts.

I just completed two Christmas Stockings (all done on the longarm) to give to a local quilt shop. (Patricias' Fabric House, East Rochester, NY) The quilt shop is collecting pillowcases, stockings and personal hygiene products for a local charity.

Now, off to the quilt shop I go to deliver the stockings.

Christmas Rush Almost Finished

2008-12-01T22:45:00.014-05:00

I've been very busy working on customer's quilts. By the end of the week all of the quilts that my clients want to give as gifts this season will be finished and back in their hands; so they can put any finishing touches on.

I would like to welcome any customer's from the Little Red Quilt House to my website and my blog. Thank you for visiting.

I'll be working on some personal quilting and sewing projects in the next week or two. I can't reveal what those projects are or the surprise(s) will be spoiled.

Time to get some rest and be ready to rise and shine and quilt, quilt, quilt.
Kathy

Made My Day

2008-11-24T16:47:00.005-05:00

When I opened my email this afternoon I found this wonderful note from a client in Florida:

Dear Kathy,
I just got the quilt and it is magnificent! You did such a beautiful job that I did not notice my own flaws. I said I would never do one of those again but seeing your beautiful work has inspired me. Thank you so much for the time and effort you spent. You're the best. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and I look forward to doing more work with you. Cheryl-Mom of Gus

Cheryl made my day today! Here is a glimpse at part of her photo quilt that I did for her. (The faces are blocked to protect the innocent.)

I am off to get a quick bite to eat and then back to working on the Christmas rush.

Kathy

Announcing Certification

2008-11-22T00:19:00.001-05:00

I am so excited. So excited that I have decided to start a blog. I want everyone to know that I have recently received my Creative Studio Trainer certification. This certification allows me to teach other Statler owners how to use the new Creative Studio program.

This has been a wonderful experience.

I attended the Statler Users Group and Representative (SUGAR) conference this past May and took a two day "Train the Trainer" course from Paul Statler (the creator of the Statler Stitcher) and Kim Diamond (Sweet Dream Quilting Studio).

In those two days, I learned the capabilities of the program, gave a presentation on one aspect of Creative Studio (we did not know which aspect we were going to teach until we arrived in the room), and took a very long and involved written exam. When I returned home I was to stitch out a sampler that demonstrated all the aspects of Creative Studio. That sampler was then mailed to Kim Diamond where she in turned reviewed my performance on the presentation, written exam and my sampler.

I love being a Certified Creative Studio Trainer!

Jim and I have been spending time with other Statler stitchers. We attended the first NE SUGAR conference earlier this month in Connecticut. Jackie Kunkel of Canton Village Quilt Works (cvquiltworks.com) organized the get together. Where's Jackie? Where's Jackie's quilt?

Our host were Mark and Janice Roy from the Little Red Quilt House. It was great to see some familiar faces and meet some new ones. I can't wait until we convene again. It should be in the spring.

It's time to call it a day.
Until next time, happy quilting.

Kathy