Warm Winters

2009-12-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

It's been so long between posts, I know! But the Christmas push is on. I have 2 more quilts to finish before Christmas, both rag quilts, and then the focus turns to baby. I think my doctor has a suspision that I might deliver early, and no doubt that my mom does, but I'm kind of excited about having a tiny baby around for Christmas. Not that I'm pushing things, she's not due until mid January. But until then, I have projects running out my ears, quilts first, bean bag chairs for the kids, and other tiny gifts bags & things. I've put together a picture site for my completed things, so that when I don't post on here, they can be seen there! Until next time...

On the 8th Day

2009-11-13T13:43:00.000-08:00

I have been lost in a world of quilts this week! I can't believe it's Friday and I haven't posted yet! So sorry! I do have a lot of updates today tho. I have finished Susanah's dog quilt top, and and 50% done with Jen's Bloom & Grow quilt. Yippee! I will start quilting on both of these beauties next week. I have to go get the batting cut this weekend, and then they will start to look like real quilts! ALSO a long overdue quilt...Suzi's New Beginnings quilt is One strip away from being a finished top, after so many months! On another note this week, my birthday came and went without a lot of fanfare, which I appreciate, as I turned 30. Finally an adult. The kids suffered through about 16 hours of a minor cold, and we're off and running. This weekend we will decorate for Christmas, cause I'm getting too big to do it at any other point, and the Braxton-Hicks, well they weren't this bad with the first two! 8 more weeks and we still don't have a name either, but the diaper shower is next week, so maybe I'll get some help there. Another note..2 weeks until Turkey Day!!! Are you ready? I can't wait!

2009-11-05T09:31:00.001-08:00

Just had to share this AMAZING tutorial I found for a new way of doing binding. It's genius. I wish I had thought of it. It will save so much time! Check it out here!

The tooth fairy comes early

2009-11-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

Mornin! I feel like I've got so much accomplished in so little time over the past few days. Aside from sewing, I had to take my kids to the dentist for cleanings, and discovered that my oldest daughter has a broken tooth. Broken. Sheared in half. It's more amazing to know that she did it on her brother's head. So the dentist advised that it's going to have to come out. Now I already have a dentist fear/yuckiness/thing that I've had to get over, but now they want to take my baby, my first born and give her nitrous oxide and yank a tooth out of her head? OY. So, me being a paranoid fool, am getting a second opinion, and taking her to a dedicated pediatric dentistry practice. That was yesterday. On to quilt stuff. Susannah's Woof quilt is coming along nicely. I'm about done with half of the quilt top this morning, and will finish it up this weekend. Here is a preview:

Also, Jenelle's quilt squares are all cut up and staring at me ready to be sewn together. I LOVE this line. In fact, I love all of Riley Blake's fabrics. I just can't get enough of them.

I have also ordered some All Star fabric because I have decided to make the kids bean bag chairs for Christmas. The All Star line is perfect for my son, and my daughter will get one from the Park Slope line. I can't bring myself to cut this up for a quilt, so bean bag it is. From what I gather, they're pretty easy to make, so I can't wait to get started!

2009-11-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

The day has finally come! Tonight I will travel to Tempe (I say travel because it is 1 1/2 hours from my house) to have my cookbook signed by Ree Drummond. I know, you're saying, WHO? The Pioneer Woman silly. Don't tell me you haven't been to her blog, be cause folks, you're missing out if you haven't. She's a huge inspiration with her cooking, photography, and most of all homeschooling. She just rocks. If you haven't been to her site lately, check it out. If you've never been, prepare to be addicted. She has massive giveaways. Awesome recipes. Witty Banter. Please, go visit her site today. You'll be glad you did.

Http://www.ThePioneerWoman.com

Yippee

2009-10-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

I love that point in a quilt when you finally get everything cut, and can start to put it together. Well, today I got to that point in Susannah's Woof quilt. Yippee! I even got the first pinwheel done, and hope to be done with them by early next week. On another note, we had some awesome Alaskan storm sweep down upon us in the SouthWest, and the high temps for the next couple days are in the 60's! 60's?!? Brrrr. I love finally being able to sleep under a blanket again, and it really gets me motivated to sew. If only I lived somewhere colder, I'd be sewing like a fool!

Ciao for now

La Di Da

2009-10-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

I feel today is not a La Di Da day. I feel like it's a day to get caught up on things I've been neglecting. I've got several projects that are so close to being done that I want to get done before I get started on a custom quilt! My first of the season. I feel more prepared this year tho. I've got a quilt design program to pre-design quilts before I make them, and allow the customers to see what they're quilt will look like. It's not the $300 program, but maybe someday. For now, it works for my purposes. I am now in the 3rd trimester of my 3rd pregnancy. Almost done! My oldest is starting to read, and my youngest is potty trained. I guess I have accomplished a lot over this summer, but as the cool weather approaches, it's quilt season in full force again. Time to get back at it. Here is a glimpse of the Woof! custom quilt for Susannah:

It's a collaboration I can't wait to get started on. Fabric should arrive Friday! Happy Wednesday!

So Long...

2009-10-08T06:12:00.001-07:00

Since I've last posted, I know. I do have some projects in the works, but have been overwhelmed by birthdays (husband's 30th, yikes!) and kids, and beautiful weather that I just can't stay out of. Finally the heat has broken and it's in he 50's in the mornings! So nice. I've also started a new blog because I'm obsessed with my coupons and coupon things right now. You can find me at www.thecoupondiary.blogspot.com . I'm not abandoning my quilting blog for anything, just less posts until some custom orders pan out or new projects creep up. I hope you all are well, and stop by my other blog to save some money!

A Quilt for the hubby

2009-09-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Always a challenge. Especially since I am still not at a year since I picked up quilting again, and my stash seems to only consist of girly/flowery fabrics. Well, first we had to decide on a pattern. We went thru some flickr pictures and both arrived at a decision at the same time. A Bento Box quilt inspired by this picture from Crazy Mom Quilts. Got it. Striking pattern, masculine, perfect for a manly man. Now the colors. I had nothing in my stash, and a lack of available funds to go buy a bunch of manly fabric. So I thought I might just try my hand at the block first and pick out some fabrics later. Here's what happened:

A basic blue and white was all it took for me to fall in love with. My husband of course took all the credit for picking out such an awesome pattern (men). It turned out to be so much easier than I had expected, and goes together so quickly. The best part is that it makes 15" blocks, so the top should be done in no time! My measurements were off a bit on the first one (left), but it's not too noticeable, so I think I'll leave the seam ripper in the drawer for now. Yeah Bento Box! My new fav pattern of the moment!

I also managed to put together another baby quilt for the shop. Check it out! Christmas is coming up!

2009-08-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

I finally got something new done and up in the shop! Good timing too as my husband's hours were cut which means less income, but more sewing time for me! Hopefully I can crank out a few more baby quilts and get them up and finish some seriously oversue projects that need finishing. I'm looking forward to getting a lot done in September, and it's not even September yet. This quilt is up in the shop now.

WIP's

2009-08-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

So my sewing mojo is certainly back with a vengance. I not only have I

finished a quilt this week, but I started on my most challenging one, a wedding quilt that needs to be done before November. I had previously decided to do a double wedding ring quilt, and changed my mind several times. I have finally settled on a pattern. Whirlygiggles! It's modern and funky, and I think fits the couple better than the rings would have. Two blocks are now done. Here they are:

I also received my first quilting bee package from Nova Scotia! So far away from my little corner of the world. I was initially worried about this block, but knew the reason I joined a quilting bee was to challenge myself and learn new blocks & techniques. I was overjoyed to find that not only could I do this block, but it turned out so good! Dorey's fine instructions helped tremendously, and I hope I can provide equally good instructions when my month comes around in May. But I've got a lot of time to think about that one. Here is Dorey's block:

Off to do more!

9 Patch Swap Quilt

2009-08-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

And washed and dried and crinkly goodness. Such Joy!

Decisions, decisions

2009-08-17T13:54:00.001-07:00

I received my 40 disappearing 9 Patch blocks last Wednesday, and was so excited to get to work. This swap started so long ago, and finally will end when I get this quilt put together. So I didn't really have a plan going into this as to what I was going to do, but this is how it came out. Now I haven't put the white sides on yet, but I needed a break. Then, I got this crazy idea to put 2" squares around the outside...cause I don't have enough projects going on right now. But the problem now is that I can't picture this quilt without the frame of smaller random squares. Looks like I'll be cutting for the rest of the day, maybe week. But I'll post my progress as it all comes together. Nice to have something all come together for once tho. It's been a while.

Making a list, Checkin it twice

2009-08-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Well, today was supposed to be the day we were going to find out that we're having a girl. I called the doctor's office just to make sure the ultrasound was all scheduled and Nathan wouldn't be leaving work for nothing. Turns out they did not schedule it for today, but instead will wait until 20 weeks. Common people, it's only two weeks! So more waiting. I do have my appt today, but it should just be a regular routine thing. In the meantime, the kids are off at Grandmama's this am, and that gives me the perfect opportunity to sit down and plan out my Christmas list. My husband has a huge family, and my goal was to make the majority of the presents this year. Yikes...I better get started. So here's my call out to you. I'm looking for tutorials of different things. Unique things. I obviously can't make all quilts, but am planning on doing some aprons, hair clips, things of that nature. What are your favorite tutorials? I've found a couple that I'm pretty excited about and can't wait to start buying fabric again. I will put links on the sidebar to all the tutorials I find (and ones you guys send) so that we can have an easy reference if you're like me and want to start making some stuff! Thanks for your input!

Open Seams

2009-08-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

So I'm working on a project today that I think will turn into a coin quilt eventually. I'm using a Moda Jelly Roll, and so the strips are quite thin. I've decided to sew 5 of them together then cut into 4 1/2" sections. Here's the dilemna. Not much of one I know, but I'm curious. I ALWAYS iron my seams open. I feel that it gives a cleaner look and represents more of the fabric. I tried to sew all the seams in one direction, and just found that it looked sloppy and like one fabric was on top of the other. Am I crazy? Am I doing it wrong? Is there a secret method out there I don't know about? How do you iron your seams? I've started a poll on the sidebar to find out what everyone else's method is. AND until I learn or find a better way to sew my seams to the side, I'll keep on sewing them open.

Random thought, I know..

I know..

2009-08-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a month since I've last posted. Forgive me! I think I'm just about past the nauseous part of my pregnancy, although some days it still lingers. BUT, we're almost to the day where I can find out for sure that it's a girl, I've been right about the first two, and I'm about 90% sure I'm right about this one too, but you never know! Not much progress on the quilting front. I've been working on some projects I promised to have done some time ago. (Sorry Suzi! I hope you understand!) And trying to work up some ideas for Christmas, but mainly I'm just trying to keep up with the kids and the house. I forgot how much being pregnant takes it out of you! I have, however joined a quilting bee (YIPPEE!!). I'm so excited about it. I've been looking for an open one for quite a while, and finally came across one. The "sisters" all seem so lovely, and I can't wait to get started in September! My month is May. I was hoping to have my blocks before the baby came so that I could put something lovely and unique together for her, but you know she'll have that anyway...look at me calling it a girl already! We're also trying to plan another camping trip here soon. September is a great month to go camping in the White Mountains. The elk are loud, the fawns are up and about with their mommies and wildlife is just everywhere before the winter hits. Can't Wait! Hope you all are well and thanks for checkin in! I'll post links to my quilting sisters' blogs when I have them all.

Ciao!

Fourth of Camping

2009-07-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

050
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

Not a traditional Fourth of July celebreation this year, but one that just may stick. We traveled 4 hours North to a small lake rented by our family and friends for the weekend. It was awesome. We were able to camp 100 yards from the lake shore and so convienient for the kids to be able to run back and forth between me at the camper & Daddy fishing at the lake. No fireworks, Jacob got a bit sick, so Mommy & Jacob spent Saturday night watching Cars & sleeping while Daddy & Emma ate the night away at neighbor camps. It was still nice cause I was queasy and wasn't feeling quite like a social butterfly. The weekend went too fast and I wish we were still there but we did appreciate the non 110 degrees for a couple days! I hope all of you had a lovely 4th!

2009-06-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

So, inspiration is slowly creeping in again. Woo Hoo! Maybe it's just cause I've had a whole half day without nausea! However, I have some fabric that I intend to use for a wedding quilt. A while back I was determined to do a double wedding ring pattern, but now I'm thinking that it may be too traditional. So here's my question for you. Have you ever done a quilt as a wedding present, and if so was it traditional or a differnt pattern. Would you be willing to share pictures? I'd love to have some additional inspriation to go off of. Thanks bloggy friends! Hope you're having and excellent and COOL week. 110 here this week! Yikes! Happy for some air!

2009-06-16T10:50:00.001-07:00

No desire to sew lately, hence the lack of blog posts. Sorry to my 2 followers! I did find out about a month ago that we are expecting another baby! So I blame that for my lack of creativity. Luckily all of my sewing swaps have been completed, and I just have to get to the post office to send them out! So, forgive me while until this phase passes, should only be a couple more weeks. ***Fingers Crossed***

I'm Baaaaack!

2009-06-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

Still a bit sore, but I can finally sew for real again. I started by finishing up my Spring Blooms mini quilt swap quilt. I love the way it turned out. I just hope my partner likes it too. It is a little girly, but I couldn't help it, it just kind of came out that way. What do you think....too girly?

I might take the rest of the day off, but at least I know I'm not broken! Good thing, I've got a lot to get done!

2009-05-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Hi bloggy friends. Sorry for the long absence. I had an "incident" last week and seemed to have broke/sprained/hurt my right elbow, and I CAN'T SEW! It's so hard to just sit around and let things heal, but the swelling has gone down, and tho I still can't pick up an iron, I think I can push some fabric thru the machine this week and get some things posted. That's the goal anyway!

ciao for now

Making Progress

2009-05-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

For: Spring Blooms Mini Quilt Swap, secret partner

Not quilted yet!

WIP

2009-05-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

So, I've begun on the list. However, I have 4 ...yes 4 different variations of 9 patch quilts that I'm currently working on. The goal is to get so sick of them that I won't make another 9 patch quilt for years. But they're so easy and go together so quickly that they're hard to resist.

One of those 9 patches is CrazyMomQuilts's Sew-a-long. It's now day 17, and techincally I should have 17 blocks done. However, I am not making the same size blocks. I'm making 12" 9 patches. So my goal is to do one every other day. Well I should be at 8, and I have 5 done, so I'm a little behind, but no worries I'll catch up! I'm also halfway done with my disappearing 9 patch swap blocks, and a few other miscellaneous 9 patches that I have recently re-started. So, here's to 9 patches!

The week ahead

2009-05-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

So far this week has started out a bit rough. We are down to a 1 car family this week, and I

know that's not a big deal, but I don't live in the city, or anywhere near a city. I'm at least 16 miles from the nearest grocery store, hospital or fabric shop. Tragic! I'm taking this opportunity tho to get caught up on all my projects which include:

Crazy Mom Quilts Sew-a-Long...pictures here
Aunt Pitty Pat's Disappearing 9 Patch Swap no pics yet
Quilting Blogger's Spring Bloom Mini Swap...pictures here
F-R-I-E-N-D-S swap

A double wedding ring quilt (not started)
a 65th birthday quilt (not started)
a 75th birthday quilt (not started)
a 50th birthay quilt (not started)

Oh my! I better get to work!

Summer Lovin'

2009-05-08T10:34:00.001-07:00

Okay, I know TECHNICALLY it's still Spring. Fooey on that. It's 103 here today, so I'm in full summer swing. This morning, the kids went swimming, froze their butts off, but had a grand ol time. This afternoon starts my summer season of cooking. Around this house, we are summer eaters. And why is it that summer food seems so much harder to prepare? For example...Winter food: Stews, soups, pies...EASY!! Chop some veggies, throw them in a pot, and let them prepare themselves for hours while you...sew! Summer food: Produce, tacos, lemonade, ice cream....yeah around here all homemade. I chop all the produce when it comes home so it's ready to eat. Ice cream is frozen yogurt graham cracker sandwiches...which are to die for! Lemonade is fresh squeezed (don't you love a word that has a Q & a Z!) with strawberries, which is usually gone in a matter of hours. Egg salad, potato salad. The list goes on. I have given into the fact that summer food may be harder to prepare, but I think it's the only thing that gets me through 120 degrees.

A treat: Homemade Strawberry (or raspberry) Lemonade

What you need:

15-20 good sized strawberries (or a pint of raspberries)

1 1/2 cups of sugar (no one said it was healthy)

1 Cup Lemon Juice (or store bought lemonade & no sugar)

Seltzer Water

What to do:

Cut the tops off strawberries and dice them roughly into a medium bowl. Add 1/3 cup sugar to strawberries and mash with a fork (I use a potato masher). Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes.

****Side note: I like strawberries to float in my lemonade at then I get to eat them at the end. Double bonus! If this grosses you out, you can strain the mixture into the pitcher, just use a spoon to get as much of it out as you can and continue******

Pour strawberry mixture, lemon juice, and remaining sugar into a 2 quart pitcher. Fill the pitcher about halfway with water & stir. Add seltzer water to the top and taste. You can really fine tune it here, but this amount of everything make a pretty tasty concoction. If your lemonade is too sour, add more sugar, and too sweet add some lemon juice, but no more that 2 tbsp at a time. Taste until perfect & chill!

2009-05-05T12:36:00.001-07:00

Just a quick update while the kiddies are napping. Still re-couping from the big birthday bash. I'm way behind on my 9 patch sew-a-long, but know I can catch up by the end of the week. I also have a queen-sized quilt to finish quiling, and bind it all up before Mother's Day. And a swap due this week. Man, pile it on! So, when I get pics taken, I will post, but fear not, I'm still alive & kickin over here. Ciao

Emma's 4th birthday party : sunflower cupcakes!

2009-05-02T05:41:00.001-07:00

Just a teaser...

Quilt-a-long

2009-04-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

Uploaded - 4\29\09
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

So, this is the first of many 9 patches for CrazyMomQuilts's One-A-Day quilt a long. I've decided to make my squares a bit bigger, and I'm going for a 4th of July kind of theme. Red & Blue scrappy squares and white sashing. I think it might just work. Stop on by her blog to check out all the other quilt-a-longer's progress! I have to go sew 2 more today to catch up!

2009-04-29T09:08:00.001-07:00

If I didn't have enough on my plate already, I find this yesterday in my reader. These window beads are just too darn cute, that they might trump some of my quilting projects this next week. You definitely have to stop by and take a look. Good ol' Moda Bakeshop....

The Trendy Number Nine

2009-04-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

So, triangles seemed to be the "in" quilting theme a month ago. Now? The 9 Patch/Disappearing 9 patch is in vogue. So, I thought I'd revisit a quilt that I had started way before I knew what I was doing. I spent part of Saturday snipping seams and re-ironing all the blocks I had previously made, and now I think I might just finish it up! Here is what I have so far:

I have also joined a Disappearing 9 Patch swap, and Crazy Mom Quilts is hosting a 9 patch one-a-day quilt along. Hey at least I'm up on the trends!

Here it Comes

2009-04-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

A new Project! Exciting, yes, overwhelming, very much so. I have friends who will be getting married in November, well obviously I have to make them a quilt. I'm going all traditional on it with a double wedding ring quilt. Here is my inspiration, and some lovely pictures to share with you this weekend. Hope you too have a sewing project to fill your hours! (Source: Google search for Double Weding Ring Quilts)

Apron Crazy

2009-04-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

So, I've been sitting on this fabric for a while now, knowing exactly what I wanted to make with it, but I didn't have the courage to actually try it. I'm a half apron kind of girl, and the only apron I have is a full one, all stiff and starchy, and no amount of washing will change that. So, I got this fabric with the intentions of making myself a half apron. I've looked at all sorts of patterns, but in the end, I just dove in and took a shot. I'm kind of glad that I did actually. Here is the result:

I was able to customize the pocket so that one side would hold only a spoon, and the other side, my phone. I love it. I've already gotten it dirty, as you can tell by the pictures, making a chicken alfredo pizza last night. Today will be a day of new beginnings. I'm not sure what's in store for the next quilt, but hopefully it comes out pretty easy!

Deer in the meadow

2009-04-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

I wish I could look out my window at some deer grazing in the meadow, but right now I have some lovely cactus & lizards to delight me. However, in making Emma's quilt, the fact that she is an outdoorsy girly girl (yeah) was the driving force behind the fabric selections I chose. I have finally finished the quilt (this is just a picture of the top, but will post more of the finished product later), and wanted to share it with you...

Emma's brother and dog kind of stole the glory for this shot. What is it about blankets that when they're spread on the floor, kids & dogs flock to them. Funny.

*******Update****** I have finally got pictures of the back of the quilt! You can see them here. Also, I just want to thank everyone for al of the lovely comments. They mean so much, and help motivate me to keep sewing!

This is BY FAR my favorite quilt to date because of the spunkiness it adds, but also has a unifying theme. I'll definetly have to lighten up on my next project!

If you haven't yet, please visit Amy at http://parkcitygirl.blogspot.com/ to be part of the Bloggers Quilt Festival this week. It's an awesome thing! So many people have signed up, it a wonderful journey to look at all the quilts! Take a look!

Emma-ism

2009-04-13T13:40:00.001-07:00

So, just a quick post because I'm going full throtle on Suzi's quilt right now. While I'm sewing away, and Jacob is still fast asleep, I call out to Emma my 3 year-old going on 15 year-old, "Emma, what are you doing?" Emma's response: "Mommy, I'm just dress-uping." Probably only cute to me and maybe Grandma, but thought I'd share anyway!

Ciao

2009-04-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, after another lovely weekend Monday comes again. First the weekend. It all started 5am on Saturday morning. Garage Sale time! Without getting into specifics, we got rid of a lot of stuff, and didn't buy a darn thing! That's impresive. There is a pile of things that didn't get sold, however, waiting in mom's garage for me to pick up. Included are some mirrors for my sewing room (from Grandma), a baby swing that the kids still like to play with, and a whole tote full of crafty-ness. Saturday night meant a night of racing, and for me that meant the last time, and Manzanita Speedway. Long story short, this race track is closing after 51 years, and being leveled. It's a big deal around here. The actual last race is next Saturday night, the 11th, but with Easter the next day, I don't want to be all was a tired and groggy.

So now it's Monday. Jacob has been grumpy all day, so he went down for a nap earlier than usual. That gave Emma & I a chance to color eggs and get our Easter on. That was a blast! It's fun that this is the first year she'll really remember coloring eggs and the egg hunt, and everything that comes with Easter. She'll also be 4 in a little less than a month, so we are in the middle of birthday party plans as well. Doorbell rings, wakes up Mr. Grumpy, but the postman delivered more lovely mail today. I received a surprise thank you package from the Haasch clan in Wisconsin that included a digital camcorder that fits in your hand, an iphone case, and boy shirts. Man, good mail day! I also received the last 2 fat quarters from this fat quarter swap. I've got to say there's a theme! 3 of the 4 FQ's I received were a red color. The 4th....from New Zealand, is just do lovely I don't think I can cut it! It is a variety of babies in a park scene. It's adorable! I do know some friends who are having a baby tho...perhaps a wall decoration of some sort. Either, way, it was awesome to get some international fabric and send some out too. I'm really starting to love this swap thing! Hope you all are enjoying this Spring day! CIAO

How Lucky

2009-04-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I received in the mail a GIANT 37 lb box of clothes from my dear friend Nicole in Wisconsin. For her to even ship a 37 lb box was pretty sweet, and it was just supposed to be her cleaning out her closet, and seeing if anything fit me. Guess what, it all fits! It's like a have a brand new wardrobe. It's pretty cool to have such great friends!

And then today I received my mini Easter swap pacakge from Christine. This is a talented lady! Not only did she take the time to make everything she sent, but it's just gorgeous. I've included a picture so I could brag her up a bit! I want to thank Emile at Bunch of Scrap for hosting a cool swap, and for having a great middle name! (She spells it Nichole, just like mine!) I also received a fat quarter and some matching buttons from Lisa in Canada today. It's just a happy day over here! I'm anxious to host one of these myself, but with Easter, Emma's 4th bday, our 6th anniversary, and garage sales, and whatever else might come up in the next month, it might have to wait until summer!

Project number 2

2009-04-01T07:56:00.001-07:00

009
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

This is another scrap quilt top I've been working on. Yeah, all from scraps. I'm not sure at this point wether to make it bigger, or just add a lot of interesting border. I guess that depends on wether I'm going to hang it on the wall, or use it for warmth. Any suggestions?

I've also got quite a bit accomplished on Suzi's quilt, and will post pictures when I get around to taking them! Ciao

New / Old Project

2009-04-01T07:51:00.001-07:00

New / Old Project
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

So, I'll tell ya why I haven't written in so long. Along with preparing for a garage sale, I've been a quilting fool, and have had yet another project put on my plate. The more, the merrier! This quilt top came from my husband's great-grandmother, who is no longer with us, and is made up of clothes from his grandmother's childhood. So, my mother-in-law has asked me to put it together and quilt it, and I thought it'd be god practive since I finally got a big girl quilter's foot for my machine. It's turing out WAY better than I had hoped, although I can't get rid of the puckers from the original quilt top, I'm told it adds character anyway, so...what do you think?

Zig Zag

2009-03-23T10:17:00.003-07:00

007
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

First row= DONE

Just posted...yet another zig zag tutorial at Bee Square. See what I mean? Everywhere!
.

Triangles

2009-03-23T10:17:00.001-07:00

008
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

I don't know what it is about triangles this Spring, but they seem to be everywhere I look. I've always wanted to make a quilt with them, and I finally got up the nerve & supplies to, and so is everyone else! But that's okay, because it helps my cause and I've found some awesome tutorials out there for zig zag quilts. Anna Maria Hormer has one here and another inspiration from Crazy Mom Quilts. If you haven't checked out her blog yet, you really should! Okay, I'm off to make party garland for Easter & Birthdays coming up! Have a lovely day!

Happy Weekend

2009-03-21T06:45:00.001-07:00

Just a note to say have a happy weekend! We're looking forward to cooler weather this weekend, mabe it'll just put me back in that quilting mood! I can't seem to get inspired lately. What do you do to get inspired?

St Particks Day

2009-03-17T06:56:00.001-07:00

Top O' the Mornin to Ya! I've decided that in honor of St. Patrick himself, everything in the store, TODAY ONLY, will be shipped FOR FREE! Now that's a deal! Hope you're wearing your green...

Bloomin Bag

2009-03-16T10:18:00.001-07:00

Bloomin Bag
Originally uploaded by nikandn8

New In the shop today...

Camping Quilt

2009-03-16T10:06:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by nikandn8

So, I have been debating what to do with the cue Hoffman Camp Time fabrics I purchased, and I came up with this.

It's my first "improv" block, where I didn't go off of a template and just figured out the measurements in my head. Yeah I'm still kind of a rookie, but they're turning out just fine, although now I can't find the sashing fabric I was going to use between the blocks. I grilled Emma, figuring they ended up in the mounds of dress-up lining her closet, but still, it is missing. Maybe it's a sign that I should use something else. Maybe it's a sign I should get the block done before I start thinking about the sashing...

No pictures, just words

2009-03-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

Getting the Watson/Texas quilt underway today was my goal, and the first two rows are sewn & pressed! I will update with pictures tomorrow. I'm already searching the Etsy archives for binding and backing fabric, and have found quite a few possibilties. Also, I'm going to start cutting fabric for Jacob's camping quilt. We are a camping family. Not like the stay in a campground type, but the middle of the woods, pee with the bears type. I purchased this fabric and just cannot bear to part with it, so I thought I'd make the kids each a camping quilt, only to be used on camping trips....if it turns out good enough, I won't let it out into the woods with all that black dirt, so we'll see how that goes. Pictures tomorrow, I promise!

Hot Stuff

2009-03-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

I finally got lucky and got a free day away from the kids. Not that I don't treasure every moment I spend with them, but 5 straight weeks of a 1 & 3 year old will drive anyone a little coo-coo. SO, I finally have time to sew! I've gotten a lot of cutting done for Suzi's quilt...pictures later, and I've whipped up some new goodies for the store! Please stop by and take a look! It hurt to cut into the adorable new Michael Miller fabric, but what good is it just sitting there?

Nirvana

2009-03-09T14:38:00.000-07:00

So, you know that moment in the movies when everything is right, and the Heavens open up and you hear the Angelic music...you know the scene...I had one of those today. Every fabric person is totally with me on this. Went to JoAnn's, and didn't buy a stitch, but when I returned home, I received my package from Fabric Supplies, and also had Suzi's fabric. I was in Heaven. All this delicious new fabric to create with! Ahhh the world is right again. I just wasn't in the mood to start something scrappy! Here's the new stash:

New Tool

2009-03-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

http://search.quiltshops.com/calculator/calculator.htm

I stumbled across this awesome fabric calculation tool, that will tell you exactly how much fabric you need for your next quilt top. All you need to enter is your block size, number of blocks, and fabric width. Easy Peasy! It will also break down how much light, medium, & dark fabrics you might need too. Go check it out!

The Dress

2009-03-07T11:20:00.001-08:00

So my venture into the sewinig world is coming along nicely. I don't claim to be a professional, I haven't taken any classes, but I'm a quick learner. So, after boosting my ego a bit, here's the pillowcase dress in all it's glory! I changed some things on it, didn't actually use a pillowcase, and instead of bias tape, added some ric rac for some spunk. Looks pretty darn cute on Emma too! Thanks to Susan Petersen at Freshly Picked for the stunning & simple tutorial!

I've also started a new coin quilt this week. I'm not too far yet, but this is what's done. Off to sew!

Saturday Project

2009-03-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

With all the recent illness in this house, we are begging for Spring to come. We have all been through it now, and with Jack being on the tail end of his, today we will tackle a Springtime dress for Miss Emma. Here is my plan. I've been so fortunate to find so many lovely patterns on the big bad internet, and am going to try one out today. And of course I will start a new quilt during naptime too. Big plans! I've also ordered some fabric from Fabric Supplies on Etsy, my new favorite supplier. Take a gander at their store. The shipping is so fast! Take care and enjoy the weekend!

N

Name Game

2009-03-02T06:10:00.000-08:00

Just some fun for today! If you would like to join, please comment a link to your blog so I can read! Have fun!

Your Real Name: Nichole
Witness Protection Name:(mother and fathers middle names) Ann Eric
Secret Spy Name: (your first name spelled backwards) Elohcin
Nascar Name: (first name of your mother's dad, father's dad) Lloyd Herb
Detective Name:(favorite color, favorite animal) Pink Moose
Soap Opera Name:(middle name, county where you were born) Elizabeth America
Super Hero Name: (2nd fav color, fav drink, add "THE" to the beginning) The Green Margarita
Fly Name:(first 2 letters of 1st name, last 2 letters of your last name) Niey
Street Name:(fav ice cream flavor, fav cookie) Vanilla Samoa (huh?)
Rock Star: (current pet, current street) Julio Pinnacle Vista
Porn Name: (1st pet, street you grew up on) Sylvia Acoma
Your Gansta Name:(first 3 letters of real name plus izzle) Nicizzle
Your Goth Name:(black, and the name of one of your pets) Black Sam
Stripper Name: (name of your fav perfume/cologne, fav. candy) Tommy Girl Snickers

2009-02-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

I've finally got it done! This is my first quilt with continuous binding, and all the goodies, and I'm done! I love it, and hopefully someone else will too...it's now up in the shop. I also got some new feet for the ol sewing machine today which means: New Projects! I just don't know where to begin! I'll keep you updated. In the meantime, go check out the wristlets I made here. L8

Almost done

2009-02-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to get my stacked coin quilt done by Saturday for my Etsy feature, BUT it's slow going. I do have the top and the back all done & cut to size, and I'm about to go cut the batting for the middle. However, beautiful AZ days pull people out of their houses, and the park is begging for our attention, so we will enjoy a day with grandma today, and I will be quilting into the wee hours of the morning. Pictures later I'm out!

Stacked Coins Beginnings

2009-02-23T15:36:00.000-08:00

So, my disappearing 9 patch, I wasn't happy with it. Maybe I used too many fabrics. HOWever, the girls over at Chickpea Studio & Orangeflower have put together an awesome flickr group, and it has given me so much inspiration that...

Look what I got done today! I'm so happy with the way this is turning out! It's going to be a baby quilt, and I'm still comtemplating the quilting pattern, but I have to make the top wider first! I just had to share!

New Project

2009-02-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I know, Take a week off of blogging, and you miss it so much that you post 3 times in one day? Silly lady...

Since my oldest is off soaking up some Grandma time, and my youngest is enjoying his first 2 hour long nap all week, I decided to lay down and take a nap....

Yeah right! I laid there for maybe 5 minutes before I was up and sewing. I've discovered a new patch called the "Disappearing 9 patch" (I found it here) that I am in LOVE with. It's just so clever. So instead of using scrappies, I busted into my new Half Yards that I bought from fabricsupplies on Etsy and I'm so happy with how it's turning out! Don't be surprised if it's in the shop by Monday.

Oh yeah I was going to do some Spring Cleaning. I got pictures taken to list, but only got around to listing 3 things before the sewing bug bit. Off to sew more!

Spring Cleaning!

2009-02-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Alright folks!

It's that time of year again! I know some of you are still digging out of the snow, and of this, I'm envious. BUT the 80 degree temps in Phoenix make the Springtime feelings come bursting out. What does this mean for you? I'm getting rid of all my crafty supplies & starting anew! I have reformatted my sections in my shop and included scrapbook clearance sections, and soon I'll have some fabric scrap sections, once I get there. So, please help me clear the clutter and practice good feng shui by visiting my store and looking around a bit. I'm sure there's something there to tickle your Fancy!

Happy Spring, er I mean Ciao!

N

Sorry for my absence..

2009-02-20T05:42:00.000-08:00

It's been such a long time, I know! Sorry to drop off the radar but my plate has been very full! I had a custom order of 3 quilts & the toy organizer to finish this weekend, out of town company and some kind of nasty flu. So since this is the first day I don't want to curl up & sleep the day away, I thought I'd mention the fact that I'm still around! I did finally get my fat quarters out to Nettie over at http://aquiltisnice.blogspot.com/ . I hope she enjoys them! In return, I'm anxiously awaiting my fat quarters from her! Do I smell, new project? I feel a traditional quilt top coming on...

Toy Organizer

2009-02-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday I decided to try my hand at some sewing project other than a quilt. Guess what, I didn't do too bad. Maybe I can do this sewing thing after all. So, I put it in my Etsy shop, and it's sold already, so this is not a long post because it's nap time, and I'm off to work on another! Happy Days to you!

In the beginning

2009-02-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

This is where it all started...my first quilt, about a hundred million years ago. All done by hand, given to my mother for Christmas. Yeah that was back before I had a sewing machine. Now, it's easier! Just thought I'd share...

Weekend Work

2009-02-06T12:55:00.001-08:00

I've finally gotten some of the fabric for my special order project that I'm working on. I've been very anxious to get this started, and so as soon as I got the fabric today, it was cut and sewn within minutes. It's 3 quilts, all very similar, so it wil take a bit to do, and I'll keep you updated on the progress for now. As of 2pm today (nap time is about over), this is my progress:

off to sew some more!

New Project

2009-02-05T12:47:00.000-08:00

I have totes & totes of fabric awaiting some fabulous project. Problem is I'm only one person. However, I haven't looked at much of this stuff in a couple years, so when it's re-discovered, it's like getting new fabric (that you know you like) for free! So, I have put some of it together and this is what I'm working on now...

An Easter quilt! Yeah it's gonna be a rag quilt. I'm just doing this until the fabric for a special order comes in, then I'll be tied up with that for a bit, but I promise to have it in the shop soon! Happy sewing!

Fat Quarter Swap!

2009-02-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon a lovely blog today that is having a Fat Quarter Swap! Please check it out & join in! We could all use new fabric!

http://www.stitchesandscissors.com

All about Etsy!

2009-02-05T07:03:00.000-08:00

I just have to say this morning that I LOVE ETSY. Yeah I've only made 3 sales, but it's 3 more than I would have ever made on Ebay. I do love me some ebay from time to time, but let's face it, ebay is for kids clothes, cheap electronics, and concert tickets. Etsy gives people like me hope that they can actually made NICE handmade items and sell them, if only for a tiny profit. You're not going to get rich at this by any means, but I've learned over the past couple months, that doing what you actually love to do shows in your work, and people see that, and well buy it. So, I'm going to keep trudging on and OH...I got my first special request! A lovely lady has asked me to make 3 semi-identical toddler quilts for her triplet girls! So, I'm awaiting my fabric in the mail, and I'll keep you update on the status, but she should have them by next week!

Ciao!

Homemade Goodness

2009-01-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

On my quest to put only good things into my families' bodies, I discovered a recipe for a homemade granola bar (which I never even thought was possible) and I would like to share it with all of my 1 reader(s) (thanks mom!) Here ya go:

Ingredients:

1 bag/box flavored granola

3/4 cup honey

3/4 cup butter

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

any snacky items you have around, ie pretzels, raisins, sunflower seeds, cheerios

chocolate chips

In a large saucepan, mix together honey, butter & brown sugar. Heat until boiling. Boil for one minute and remove from heat. Stir in granola. Stir in all snacky items that you are using, except for the chocolate chips. Transfer to a jelly roll pan or cookie sheet with sides. (be sure to grease this before you begin) Wet your hands and press granola mixture into place until it is compacted together. Sprinkle approx 1 cup chocolate chips into and press into place. Refridgerate for 30 minutes, then cut into bars. Try not to eat them all in one day!

Hope you enjoy!

My first Sale

2009-01-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

I send my sincerest thanks out to Joanne in PA for being my first Etsy customer! I hopeshe loves her quilt, and this has reinstated my faith in etsy & quilting, and put a generally big smile on my face. Thanks Joanne!

Love is in the Air

2009-01-12T09:08:00.000-08:00

I am not new to the world of blogging, but I am starting fresh with the new year. I have taken on the task of finally selling my quilts on Etsy, a lovely site that features handmade products from people just like me! The beauty of this site is that everything on it is simply handmade by the person selling it. So, not only do more people get too see my quilts, but they are more appreciated there, than say eBay becuse the people know how much time, effort & love go into handmade products. Hopefully this will survive the bruised economy, as jobs are scarce, but luckily we are still afloat and alive! So here it goes. I am sending my love out into the world in the form of quilts, and hope that it will be well received. In the meantime, please check out some of the other blogs I read. Thanks for stopping by!

Nichole