Merry Made Quilts

Bad Bad Blogger!

2011-08-18T09:24:00.001-05:00

I've been a bad, bad blogger.

I know I've been MIA for longer than I care to admit.

Honestly, I'd hit a wall. I had a to-the-death struggle with the fabric from this post:

Remember this stuff?

Well, I dug it back out, pinned the ever-loving crap out of it.

And got a not-to-ugly baby quilt out of it. Actually, I think that it'll be really fun for a baby to play with. My sister-in-law is expecting their first and they're not finding out what they're having.

I couldn't ever do that. I'd for sure go completely insane.

They're doing red, white, and black for the nursery to match those eye development toys that you can find.

Let me tell you, baby fabric doesn't come in red, white, or black!!

So, while I actually did do some sewing I couldn't share it until after the shower. So, here is my quilt of death.

I just hope the baby doesn't smother on it. This thing is sooo hairy!! I ended up just putting the fabric right-sides together and sewing it like a pillow, flipping it right-side out at the end, and putting a finishing edge on it. Instead of quilting it (yeah right, like that was going to happen with this hairy thing) I just tacked it at every corner. It was so heavy I felt like batting would be over kill and only needed if they someday moved to the Arctic.

With several attempts at this monstrosity I ended up with several extra squares that I didn't need. (read: I had to cut off TONS of mistakes and this left scraps out the wazoo)

So I found this really cute fabric basket pattern: here

Of course, I have no CLUE what-so-ever when it comes to visualizing things from measurements. I need photos that have objects in them so I can see things to scale!

Any way, I made this little bugger as a little toy box or maybe hamper.

Nope.

It's a wipe holder.

Way smaller than I planned.

But it's still pretty cute.

But this little book is the thing I'm most excited by.

It's made out of two 13x13" quilt squares, folded in half with cereal box bags inside for the crinkle sound!

And miraculously it actually works!

(did I mention this would be a really long, rambling post?! Serves me right for being gone so long!)

This little lady had her very first day of Kindergarten today.

She was more than a little nervous about that bus. She looks so small with that huge backpack on!

But when the bus came she got on like a trooper. Never looked back! Good thing because this Mommy was crying like a baby.

Good luck baby girl! That school won't know what hit them!

And now, in other news...(said with my most impressive news caster voice)

All of you prayer warriors out there. Keep my little man Jackson in your thoughts. We just found out that his little kidney is failing. No clue yet as to why but we meet with the awesome Drs. at Children's Mercy in KC next week to find out what's next. Not good news when they call and tell you that urology is going to refer you over to nephrology. His new dr. deals mostly with transplants and pediatric dialysis.

Not the words every mom dreams of hearing.

But he's such a brave little guy. We're just thankful that they've caught whatever it is at such an early age. He wasn't having any problems that we knew of and was actually having a sono for a follow up of something completely unrelated and a REALLY AWESOME dr. saw something he thought was a little off at the very edge of the picture...

I woke up this morning to see this by the back door.

Maybe God reads my Blog

2011-07-21T09:41:00.000-05:00

So, maybe God reads my blog?

OK, no I'm not delusional but maybe just maybe he got tired of my whining.

He's answered my call for inspiration.

In the form of email.

Yes, I know, God doesn't have email.

(I think...well...the Bible doesn't address such things)

But I know he works through the hands of our adoption agency.

And they definitely have email.

And they sent me this:

This is Charles Oliver. He's 10 mos in this photo. We have to edit out dear Foster Mom for her privacy. It seems cruel to edit out the woman who's loving your son while your so far away, but rules are rules!

Now, if that's not inspiration (and a lot of happy crying) I don't know what is!!!

It seems that I will have to adjust my sewing to accommodating a WALKING toddler instead of the baby we were expecting.

Maybe some big boy bedding instead of the crib bumper I just finished...

In DESPERATE need of inspiration!

2011-07-18T07:38:00.000-05:00

So, we've had depressing news followed by more depressing news on the adoption front.

Blah Blah Blah Longer Wait Blah Blah

So, I've been away, licking my wounds and self medicating with chocolate.

But, I'm done.

I'll do what every red blooded American mom has done since June Cleaver and suck it up like a good Stepford Wife and drink alone in the bathroom.

OK. So, maybe I can't hold my liquor and the last time I drunk sewed (is that even a phrase?) it was very scary and I almost committed a little more of myself to my quilt than I planned.

So, I'll just get really really fat while I stuff myself with chocolate until it all feels better.

Yes, that's a much better plan.

I'm good at removing chocolate stains. Much better than blood stains.

But ANYWHOOOO

Back from that long winding train of thought.

I needed something to connect me to my baby waiting half way around the world. Something to break the funk.

So Enter the original "Mommy Craft" :

Korean Pojagi

by: Cathy McMurray

You may remember when I posted about another Korean sewing project here. I think this style would be BEAUTIFUL with this carrier!

My most recent inspiration came from this lovely woman:

This translates into patchwork to wear like a scarf, or decorate with like a curtain, or even skirts and because there are no raw edges nothing needs lined!

And of course because I speak the language of quilts, here is some eye candy in the "style" of Korean Pojagi.

by 2.hippos

by: boodilly

by: Movinghands

I think this style can translate beautifully with other more "western" modern quilting ideas!

I can definitely say I'm feeling less "funky!"

It also might have something to do with bathing.

Just sayin'...

Carnies and fire!

2011-07-05T08:47:00.002-05:00

For all of my USA followers, I hope you all had a very lovely 4th of July!

Here's what the 4th looks like in our hometown!

Not bad for a town of 5,000! We take our 4th of July seriously around here!

And of course there was pool time at Grandma and Grandpa's house!

Here's my little guy!

"I'm not feared of water no more"

And my little mermaid.

And you can't have the 4th of July without the carnival!

What's a good sweaty holiday without a few carnies?

So, how was your 4th?

2011-07-05T08:47:00.000-05:00

For all of my USA followers, I hope you all had a very lovely 4th of July!

Here's what the 4th looks like in our hometown!

Not bad for a town of 5,000! We take our 4th of July seriously around here!

And of course there was pool time at Grandma and Grandpa's house!

Here's my little guy!

"I'm not feared of water no more"

And my little mermaid.

And you can't have the 4th of July without the carnival!

What's a good sweaty holiday without a few carnies?

So, how was your 4th?

101 Tutorials from Everything Etsy

2011-06-28T08:18:00.001-05:00

I'm really in love with this blog and now they've compiled a little list.

Ok. So it's not little AT ALL.

It's their 101 tutorials for Summer list.

Some serious cuteness happening here!

Just click above on the picture to go straight to their list!

This list has got everything from clothing, to bags, to kitchen goodies, and yes even a table runner or two.

This one has to be one of my faves and yes, it's a watermelon table runner. yummy.

And then there's this ADORABLE skirt that is based on one of my most fave mini-quilts (remember when I blogged about it here)

That one is definitely going on my list!

Both projects are found on Everything Etsy's list.

So, for Tutorial Tuesday head on over to get 101 tutorials!!

Can't beat it!

I can still sew...really, I can!!

2011-06-27T09:15:00.001-05:00

It's been WAY to long since I've posted a Ta-Da moment on here.

I'm really quite embarrassed at how long it took to finish such a simple baby quilt.

I may have had the quilting equivalent to writers block.

We've received some disheartening news in regards to getting dear Charlie out of Korea. It's technical, involves a lot of acronyms and is all together way to vague to actually be construed as news.

Maybe a more accurate description is anti-news.

We know that while we are completely done with things on the US side the Korean government isn't being so accommodating. Long story short is that they only issue so many EPs or Emigration Permits for babies to leave the country for adoption each year. They're not processing ANY at all for this month (no explanation for this) and the general thought is that they'll more than likely be out very soon.

So, Charlie will more than likely not make it home this year. We'll miss his 1st birthday and so much more.

Ok. Done with that pity party.

On with the show.

Grace had her final Tball game. Is it just me or are the medals they give out at those things bigger than Olympic medals? I mean, sure I'm proud that she didn't make any dust angels this time or break down in hysterics because she didn't get the ball first.

But a medal nearly as big as her face? What's to strive for next? She's already won a ginormous medal in a sport they don't keep score for!

Life's been happening here as it usually tends to do.

I embarked on a baking journey.

My dad is gaga for lemon meringue pie.

I'm pretty proud of this bad boy. Done completely from scratch and by HAND. Yup. I now have a ginormous right arm from whipping that bad boy. And for those inquiring minds who are asking themselves "why on earth wouldn't she just use a mixer?" I'll let you know my mixer is a turn-coat. It took one look at actually being dusted off and being asked to work for a change and completely caught fire. Not joking. There was smoke.

And what's a good quilt blog post without a random picture of a snake?

This little (big) guy was found in our flower garden steps from our front door. I'm sure God knew what he was doing when he came up with the whole snake thing but I'll be honest and tell you that the only reason he's been allowed to live is that Lee informed me that this guy is probably the reason we've never seen any mice around our place. The only thing I hate worse than snakes are mice.

And because apparently I'm such an animal lover, we also hit the zoo. I know. We've crammed a lot of living into this past week.

We hit the Omaha Zoo with my sis who's currently living in exile in Nebraska. If you've never been to the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha you should really make the trip. It's HUGE. We are officially stocking them. I'd move in if I could.

We even dragged Grandpa along. Can't you tell he's being tortured here?

I think my sister's youngest was a bit overstimulated by it all.

And my Jackson found long lost family members.

Seriously. If that kid could have figured out a way to climb in I'm sure he'd have been happy to finally be with his own kind.

The gorilla didn't seem as impressed with my Dad and niece.

You know he's just making snarky comments under his breath here.

Cousin time is the best time!

You'd never know that the one on the right (my daughter) is 5 and the one on the left (my niece) is just barely 4. Her mom is over 6 foot so we'll see how tall she ends up!

And just because I can!

Don't you think those colors would be fabulous in a quilt?

Batiks anyone?

Rally Round the Quilter

2011-06-23T12:38:00.000-05:00

I've been missing for awhile from the bloggy world. Business to attend to and a trip out of state to visit my sister and her kiddos are to blame. (at least that's what I'll blame for now)

I'll be back up and running real soon. Promise!

In the meantime, there's a quilter out there who needs some prayers.

Kaaren of The Painted Quilt blog has announced a bad finding on a biopsy.

So, let's join her in her fight!! Let her feel the quilting world's warmth and love as she prepares for her fight!!

Hop on over and shower her with wishes!

I just know she'll be back to creating beauty with her fabric and thread in no time!

A Quilt to Say Thanks!

2011-06-17T18:41:00.001-05:00

This one is a tear jerker.

Don't say I didn't warn ya!

Sometimes we forget the purpose of a quilt in our mad rush to create.

When it comes down to it a quilt should comfort. A quilt should warm.

Artist Julie Feingold created a quilt that provides that warmth and comfort without ever touching the skin.

Her quilt "Lost Heroes Art Quilt" honors 82 services members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11. She consulted with the moms of these soldiers to find out what they remember about their children.

Each square is surrounded by a description of the soldier and a childhood picture creates the center of each.

They say you can trace history through our quilts. I think that this one goes without saying.

5 Years with Grace

2011-06-15T09:51:00.000-05:00

It's amazing to me how 5 years with this girl has so completely changed my life.

5 years has changed a 10 lb (yes, she was GIGANTIC) baby girl into a tiny (smallest by a head in her class) little lady.

Grace, you've turned our world upside down with your sense of humor, your style, your competitive nature, your love of play and dance, your kind heart.

Don't ever stop using your wishing flowers!!

Quilt Blog Bling

2011-06-14T14:44:00.002-05:00

Since I've started blogging I'll admit, I've become a bit addicted to blogger backgrounds and templates. Sometimes it feels like my blog is having an identity crisis.

But the quilt-y backgrounds have seriously been lacking in the world of blogging.

However, I just found this one that I have to say is adorable! The antique quilt feel just makes me want to snuggle up!

I found this lovely at http://shabbyblogs.com

Is it just me or are quilts becoming "hip" these days?

I've got to give the folks of Shabbyblog.com credit because they've really made some cute (did I mention the entire site is free) quilt backgrounds!

So, is anyone else addicted to blog layouts?

This is the Worst Part...Where We Cook and Don't Just Get Drunk

2011-06-09T21:39:00.000-05:00

I have to share this one.
It's way too much like my kitchen skills not to.
However, before you proceed know this:
The language is HORRIBLE.
Seriously, the kids need to be gone!
However, with this said, it's way hilarious and has NOTHING to do with sewing.

People assume that because I love to sew and quilt that I must be all domesticated.
This is a huge misconception.
Just because I can sew does not mean I live to dust, vacuum, or cook. I will not meet you at the door with an apron and martini.
Even if you ask pretty please.

So, without further ado:
My Drunk Kitchen!

True story: make sure it's sugar and not salt!
Now, back to the kitchen!

Father's Day Inspiration

2011-06-07T07:26:00.000-05:00

For those of us who may have hubby's or father's who are all
"quilted out", here's a lovely idea.

Each morning Dad can take out a new reason why he's loved! So simple and sweet!

Not to mention all ages can help.

I might even suggest for those quilt-y in nature, the top doesn't have to be plain fabric...

I could see a mini quilt for the top, or even just some raw-edged applique with Dad's monogram...

For the complete tutorial visit:

The Princes and the Tot

Thrifty Thursday for the girls!

2011-06-02T18:02:00.000-05:00

I just might have a little lady turning the big FIVE this month...

Who might just love her American doll...

(ok, it's a knock-off but geesh, she's four and those things are expensive!)

So when I saw this:

I jumped!

Did I mention those things are expensive? Well, their clothes are too! I mean, really?! Some of those outfits cost what MY clothes do and I can guarantee it takes WAY more fabric to cover my hiney than it does hers!

So, Thrifty Thursday today is a Free American Girl (or just as good knock-off) doll dress pattern!

Click Here to hop to the free download!

Back behind the Machine

2011-05-30T07:35:00.002-05:00

I'm hoping that the pneumonia is in the review mirror for good. I've been slowly building my stamina back up and I've even gotten some sewing time in.

I threw together a simple scrappy baby quilt for our little guy. It's a cloudy day but I wanted to get a shot anyway. You'll have to pretend that you can tell it's actually a dusky lavender, light chartreuse green, and grey. The colors really don't translate well I'm afraid. I'll have to wish for some sunshine for the final reveal.

Here's a shot at my first ever attempt at appliqué. Don't enlarge the photo whatever you do. It appears as though those drunken squirrels have taken over the sewing machine again...

All in all, I'm not too horribly disappointed about how it turned out. Of course, in my head I was driving that machine around the curves of those letters like a finely tuned race-car... However, in reality, I could barely keep my trike on the road. It's something that will definitely take practice.

And in between tornadoes and severe thunderstorms we've started our first season of tee-ball. It's completely hilarious. Grace has spent about 45 minutes of each hour practice spinning, dancing, picking flowers, building sandcastles at second base, or completely removing her shoes.

During the other 15 minutes her coach is able to persuade her to hit or catch the ball. (which she's surprisingly good at)

Cartwheel time.

Sandcastles

Look! She's going to catch a ball!

Oh, nope...butterfly!

But she's having the time of her life.

Even if she's a head shorter than everyone else on her team.

Also, on a completely random note. Don't you just love this collage?

I made it on picnic using their new collage maker. I'm hooked!

Drama in the Merry House

2011-05-23T13:32:00.000-05:00

We got the call.

The. Call.

You know, the one we've been waiting for.

The "we've got your baby boy call "

The crying so hard to social worker offers to call back latter at a "better time" call.

Nope. Now is a good time.

If you hang up that phone I'm going to have to show up at your house.

You don't want that, so let me wipe my ugly cry snot off my face and pull it together.

So, here he is.

Charles YunSu

At the Hospital

At about 5 months

9 months

We're already in love.

We've had a vary drama filled week at the Merry house.

It's been a whirlwind.

The next morning all craziness broke lose.

It started with bronchitics that morphed into pneumonia and knocked this Mommy on her behind.

Isolation. Strong antibiotics. Inhaler.

This means Mr. Merry has been Mr. Mom this weekend.

Poor guy. They're eating him alive.

But, if all goes well, I'll have avoided the dreaded hospital stay.

I can deal with the chaos that leaving Dad alone with kids will undoubtedly leave on our house as long as it means no needles or nurses.

So, since my last post on Wednesday we've been up, down, and inside out.

We'll need the next week to recover our breath!

But most importantly.

Did you hear?

We've got our referral!!

Now, to research fabric stores in Seoul....

Am I British Yet?

2011-05-18T13:00:00.000-05:00

Lookie Lookie!!

Awhile back I won a drawing over at the marvelous "Flying Blind on a Rocket Cycle" blog in which Hadley was celebrating being British (and I think had a touch of Royal Wedding Fever).

And my goodies arrived today.

I love the look of British stamps. They make me want to say things like "post" instead of the more boring "mail." The measure tape there is even in inches. God I love imperialist countries!! I'll never be able to eyeball a "meter" of fabric!! Just doesn't work with my brain!

Here you can see the lovely "Bristishness" spread all over my kitchen counter. I'll have to admit...I knew those candies before they arrived. They're kind of a problem for me.

I went to Europe for the traditional post high school traipsing around and while in London, actually found these and filled several pouches of my suitcase with them. Other than a very random HardRock Cafe hat, and a Tower of London key chain that was the extent of my London souvenirs.

Which leads me to the point that you must wait until you are at least past 25 to travel to foreign countries. Really. Before that you are waisting everyone's time and probably annoying the natives.

But anyway, I digress. See what they look like? I'll be doling these things out like gold nuggets!

They're already in my bowl. See. It has my name on it. You can't touch it!

And because I'm trying to pretend I'm British, I've even got tea.

OK. I'm faking. I made tea. Tried to drink it and gagged. It's in the fridge now. Chilling like it should. It'll be served later with lots of sugar and lemon.

Someone touched the bowl!!

She also included a copy of what might be the best crafty publication I've read for awhile! Isn't this the cutest little change purse?

And of course, now I'll have to make owls for the baby room! These are just too adorable!

Thanks for the trip down memory lane!

Am I British yet?

I mean, come on! My last name's Merry and I ate most of the candy while I typed this post! I must be part British by now!

Scrappy Block Tutorial Tuesday!

2011-05-17T08:24:00.000-05:00

Have you seen these blocks buzzing around the blogosphere?

Like these from the talented Hadley of Flying Blind on a Rocket Cycle blog fame.

Then she went and turned those gorgeous blocks into this gorgeous quilt!

Seriously? Scraps into something looking this awesome?!

OK, I had to find the tutorial for this one.

Which led me to Aneela Hoey of Comfort Stitching's Crazy Scrappy Block Tutorial.

Are you following me? Need a drink? I'm feeling a bit winded by all of this buzzing around!

It's really a crazy log cabin but her pictures really say it all. I love a good picture heavy tutorial!

I'm itching to try this one.

Do you think the hubby would go for the excuse that I need to buy more fabric for my "scrap" quilt?

Hmmm. Maybe I need to work on how I present that one...

Quilt Bloggers' Festival Time!

2011-05-15T09:43:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again and this time I actually caught on before the festival was over!

Yay!

I fought an inner war with myself over which quilt to show. Should I show one that stretched my talent to the extreme? One with sentimental value?

I've decided to go with one that covered both (at least for me)

It's a really simple piecing effort. But it will always be a favorite for me. It's the first quilt I ever made for my Mom (who taught me to quilt)

It was also a hand quilted number that really tried my patience!

And it was a free motion. (is that even possible for hand quilting?)

This quilt was VERY densely quilted. I almost gave it up several times but after a break, I always went back and eventually got the thing finished.

My fingers were ugly for months! I hate thimbles and have a weird way of hand stitching that just doesn't work with them. Instead I push the needle with my middle finger or the inside of my thumb nail. This means by the time I was done my thumb nail had a hole in it and my finger tips were calloused beyond anything I'd ever seen before.

Lovely I tell ya!

But in the end I got this:

To see the rest of the Bloggers' Quilt Festival Entries hop on over using the link!! Have fun!

Can't Help Myself! Slice Fabrique

2011-05-11T11:45:00.001-05:00

I have to get a little giddy over this thing.

Have you seen it?

There's also a great write-up here:

http://slicefabrique.com/2011/05/slice-fabrique-easy-by-j-caroline/

And you can find it for sale here:

(can you tell I'm just a bit excited over this thing?!)

Betsy's Books Tutorial

2011-05-10T11:20:00.001-05:00

I'm a book addict.

This quilt is singing my song!!

Elizabeth of Don't Call Me Betsy blogging fame posted this tutorial for how to make her fabulous bookshelf mini quilt. I absolutely adore the titles on the spine! Selvage!!

What an awesome graduation quilt this would make!!

Click here for her tutorial!

Picnics and Booze

2011-05-09T13:47:00.000-05:00

My daughter has her end of school picnic this week.

I'm going to come right out and say it.

I hate picnics.

You can hate me now. I know, it's like hating babies, or kicking puppies.

But hear me out.

I don't like sitting awkwardly on the ground.

Eating food that will eventually blow all over me and get into my hair.

Drink from glasses that no matter how classy they may start out, end up with a dead bug floating before I ever finish drinking.

No one who can afford furniture should eat voluntarily on the ground.

But hey, that's just my opinion!

So, the only part about this picnic (besides getting to see my daughter all grown up and finishing preschool) is the picnic blanket part.

You know, the part where I get to show off to all of the other mom's what a quilting goddess I am.

So, that got me thinking about summer and picnic quilts which of course started me on a 2 hour flickr odyssey.

How about some Picnic Quilt action for Monday Muse:

Wait.

I waited too long to get past the hate.

I don't have time to make another quilt and apparently (I've just noticed) that I've given away every quilt I've made except our ginormous bed quilt. What kind of quilter doesn't have quilts?

hmmm.

Maybe at least there will be booze? There's always lovely wine and cheese at a picnic right?

Oh, yeah, it's for preschoolers.

Crap.

Happy Mom's Day Weekend

2011-05-06T10:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Mom's Day (early) to all the Mom's out there!

Thanks to my Mom especially for starting my on this crazy journey of sewing and motherhood.

Thanks to my Mom for letting me sit on her lap while she imparted the mysteries of sewing.

(Even if I was more interested in pretending the pedal was a phone)

And this Mother's Day weekend, I'll be spending time away from the computer with this face:

and this face:

And laughing over my Mother's Day gift.

How can you not love a kid who thinks you weigh 20lbs?!

And a personal favorite..."Of course my mom must love peas! She's always wanting me to eat them!!"

Happy Mom's Day!!

Thrifty Thursday Ty Style

2011-05-05T08:11:00.045-05:00

This week's thrifty Thursday comes with some eye candy of the non-fabric sort.

(Who doesn't love a guy that knows what chartreuse is?)

So, the fabric is really pretty too.

The Thrifty Thursday find is that this fabric is:

50% off at Fat Quarter Shop

but you have to use the code: IMPRESS

Expires Friday, May 6 @ midnight CST.

Remember, I'm not associated with Fat Quarter Shop in anyway, I just love a sale!

Bye Bye Clutter!!

2011-05-04T10:12:00.000-05:00

I'm spring cleaning at the Merry House. That means everything that isn't tied down is getting pitched. OK, maybe not everything. But seriously, do we really need all this junk?

Everyone in this house seems to respond with a resounding yes.

So, I'm extending my need for a little Zen to the blog.

I'm tired of clutter. And the blog backgrounds were closing in on me. They were really cute. Seriously, I wish I could do the graphic design with the skill of some of these blogging divas.

However, it was closing in.

I was getting tired of not being able to post large pictures because the post size of the blog was too narrow.

I want BIG pictures!!

So, I've stream lined.

Sorry to those who were only following because of the cute side bars. I'm going to give simple living a try.

And now, I can actually use the xlarge photo option instead of medium!

So, I'm off to find my inner Zen!

I'm on Fire!

2011-05-02T09:47:00.001-05:00

So, I'm not actually on fire. But I've been busy, busy, busy!

This lovely stash is going to be our "gender neutral" baby room. I'm a bit disappointed with these photos. No matter what lighting I used they just don't convey the colors the same way they appear in person. The green looks washed out, when in reality it's a really bright chartreuse. The purple is really blueish in the photo, when it's really a deep lavender.(kind of a darker shade of the purple flower in the print).

Here's what we've got so far with the bedding. I've recovered an old bumper. The citrus-y green and the dark grey really pop against one another.

You'll notice, I'm not showing whole shots of the nursery yet. Hubby is going to paint a medium grey for the walls to cover up my previously sunny yellow sewing room walls. I loved the yellow for my sewing room, but it just didn't scream baby nursery and was really to girlie to be considered gender neutral.

And a diaper stacker that I'm really proud of. I used a tutorial from here with some alterations.

Next up, curtains, file cabinet slip covers (weird I know, but that's where they live), sheets, diaper changing pad covers, and of course quilts!!

The sewing is the only thing making the wait bearable. That and these awesome fortunes we received this weekend while eating out.

Maybe they know something!!

How was your sewing this weekend?

Fabric Scrap Project

2011-04-29T11:20:00.000-05:00

This has got to be one of the cutest little scrap "no sew" projects I've seen for awhile!

The hoops are fabric wrapped and the little birds are paper mache. I could see these as little sewed softies too.

My minds is cruising along in baby world right now. So, I'm thinking scraps from baby bedding morph into matching mobile.

And those owls are all over the web right now.

Wouldn't that just be too cute?!

And I love how she's used twigs as the bars for the mobile.

So, even though it's not Tuesday, I couldn't risk this one slipping out of my ever crowded mind!

Hop on over to The (fabulous) Red Thread for the full tutorial!

Adjustable Elastic or No more Crack!

2011-04-27T08:43:00.000-05:00

Yup

I missed it.

Tutorial Tuseday cruised right past. Heck, Tuesday itself flew past without much notice in my world.

My personal calendar looks like an insane person's sketch book.

Random lines and arrows criss crossing all over the page.

So, yesterday I decided it was time for the big girl planner.

You know the one.

It's about 5 pounds and 4 inches thick. It can tell a mom everything from what's going on to school to what kind of underwear hubby wore to work Friday.

I got said planner home to find that it doesn't start until July. Great. Who in the world decided that July would be a great time to start a calendar? Is there something earth shattering about the month? Last I knew January was the go-to starting month. I can see August for a school calendar but July?

Oh well.

Looks like my calendar will resemble the inside of my brain for another few months.

Anyway, since I missed Tutorial Tuesday, I've got a mini-tute for you.

This one is simply awesome (why didn't I think of it) if you have scrawny stick figure children like I do. It's for inserting that adjustable elastic into pants. We have a few of these beauties already and they are the kids' favorite pants. Now, with this tutorial, maybe we can actually tear them away to get them washed once in a while!

Now, maybe my son won't out grow all of his pants before he ever becomes wide enough to hold them up!

To find the Tutorial visit:

Patchwork Posse

Snot and Novelty Fabric

2011-04-25T07:55:00.002-05:00

These days everyone in our house is feeling a bit like this:

Yes, I know. It's gross. It's graphic. It's accurate.

My beautiful baby boy looks like he's one of those ragamuffin children that we always seem to see in the Walmart shopping carts that look like they've never met a Kleenex they liked. I have a strong urge to walk up and hand them a wipe. It's a bit of a compulsion. I need a program.

Anyway.

Where was I?

Oh, yeah.

So, we're all snotty and miserable and totally overwhelmed by allergies.

So, in my never flagging wisdom I headed out to the fabric shop to get some backing fabric for a baby quilt I've been working on.

Remember this?

I want something fun, soft, and I'm in a mood to experiment.

Maybe it's the cold meds.

I found this. It was really soft. Looked like a cross between a poodle and a chimp. I figured it would be a fun backing for a winter baby quilt.

What in the world was I smoking?

I was sneezing and wheezing and cursing the stuff.

The minute I dragged it through the door the fluff was EVERYWHERE! It was ground into the carpeting. Even the vacuum doesn't pull it out. It was even stuck to the poor dog. The stuff was impossible to sew too. It flowed like water, refusing to grip to anything (anything it was supposed to at least). The fur got sucked down into my feed dogs and has probably done irreparable damage. With a lot of yanking, a little cursing, and some creative engineering I finally freed the stuff from my machine.

Here is where I'm storing my scraps of this stuff.

I've told my husband that if I ever come through the door with this or anything similar it's clearly a cry for help and to check me into the nearest clinic.

Oh, yeah, when I was finished sewing I came out to the living room and it was also stuck to my two year olds boogies like a Groucho Marx impersonator.

Great.

Dream with Me!

2011-04-21T20:28:00.003-05:00

Patience is a virtue.

I'll admit it.

It's a virtue I lack.

I'm really more into instant gratification.

We've just spent a good portion of our day sitting in Homeland Security. Waiting.

Let me tell you. Hours in an immigration office is not exactly the way I planned on spending my day. Did I mention they don't let you bring in any technology?

Torture!

They we get home and find out we're probably more than a month away from the next step in the adoption process. More waiting.

Sorry, I'm venting.

So, in an effort to actually feel like I'm actually making progress with the adoption while staying true to my addiction - fabric and sewing (and the purpose of this blog).

I'm going to recommend we stimulate the economy!

(and our adoption fund)

Don't forget as much as 15% of all purchases through our links go straight to the adoption fund!

Here are some of my favorite books out right now (also more on the side panel):

Amazon.com Widgets

or some must have fabric:

Amazon.com Widgets

I'm loving these carousels.
And don't forget about the whole store!

http://astore.amazon.com/merry0a-20

I think I'll be doing a little retail therapy myself!

Quilted Wallet Tutorial

2011-04-19T07:50:00.005-05:00

We had a local craft festival this weekend.

I LOVE the Tulip Festival.

I love all of the booths full of hand made items. I never get over the creativity found right in my own back yard.

One really popular item that we kept seeing was the quilted wallet. It made me curious if there was something I was missing. Stall after stall sporting these really cute wallets.

I went home and found this free tutorial. It takes a little "improvising" when interpreting the directions, but if you can get through the ironing of the card pockets, you've got it made!

I added a little decorative stitching instead of straight quilting.

Full directions can be found HERE.

Monday Mushrooms?

2011-04-18T09:24:00.000-05:00

Anyone know what these beauties are?

My daughter is convinced they are Smurf brains. I can totally see where she's coming from.

I'll give you a hint:

If you're like me, you get giddy just at the sight of these guys. For as long as I can remember, my dad would go out with us to hunt up these yummies each spring.

Morel Mushrooms. Deep fried. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it.

All other mushrooms make me say "ewww." Mushrooms on my pizza? No thanks. Mushrooms on burgers? Nope.

Only these guys will do.

If you've ever tried to buy them, you'll know I'm not alone in my Morel loving.

That's right. They're on amazon for $60 for 11oz.
And that's cheap.

Good thing my addiction grows in my front yard! I've turned my toddler into a mushroom hunting machine. My pure joy and excitement each time he brings me one has him running back out in the yard to find another. I've accidentally trained him like Pavlov's beloved canine.

Now, if we could just figure out a way to mass produce these babies I'd be a millionaire.

Or at least afford my fabric addiction.

Which, when combined with the mushroom addiction could look like this:

Praying for Kirill - NEED YOU

2011-04-14T10:03:00.001-05:00

I'm hijacking my blog. No quilts. No sewing. Just prayer...and a call to action!

(if the music bugs you just pause it at the bottom)

On the other side of the world {in Russia} there is a little boy....

His name is Kirill.

Kirill was found by his mommy and daddy on an adoption list. They worked feverishly to get all his paperwork in so they could bring him home. And during that time of working to bring Kirill home they found that Kirill is the first child from his region in Russia EVER to be adopted with Down Syndrome.

A birth mother keeping her child with DS is unheard of in this area of the world. Adoptions of children with DS just don't happen in this region, these children are literally hidden away from society in orphanages and mental institutions. As it turns out Kirill would be a pioneer. If Kirill's adoption was approved, it would pave the way for other children with special needs to be adopted from this region as well.

And so just two weeks ago, Kirill's mom and dad were there in Russia headed to court to fulfill the necessary steps to bring Kirill home...

and they were loving on Kirill....

and after enduring five agonizing hours of difficult questioning before the judge...with strong statements on their behalf from two doctors, two social workers and the Minister of Children's Services fighting on their and Kirill's behalf...and prepared for the court's stamp of approval,

the Judge gave her ruling:

"Your application to adopt is rejected"

The Judges reasoning:

Kirill is "not socially adaptable" due to his "medical condition" and he is better off in an institution than in a home with a family. The Judge did state several times that Greg and Tesney were a good family, that they met all the criteria to adopt a child, but that she would not approve the adoption because Kirill has Down Syndrome. She told them that they could adopt another child, because legally Tesney and Greg's application had no problems according to Russian adoption law. The judge said she would approve their adoption for a 'typical' child, but not this child.

The ONLY reason?

Because Kirill has Down Syndrome.

{Home study approved and Immigration approved for a child with Special Needs}

BUT

and so here's where we come in...

I just can not believe for ONE second that Kirill is supposed to stay in an

institution in Russia for the duration of his life.

NOT A CHANCE.

Almighty God's heart is for the orphan and it is attentive to their cry.

Almighty God's heart longs for every child to be in a forever family.

"He sets the lonely in families" Psalm 68:6

Soooooo

If God's heart is for the orphan and He longs for every child to be in a forever family...then God wants to and will move to bring Kirill home.

They aren't taking this lying down. They're taking this to Russia's Supreme Court.

Of course, this means added expense to an average family. I can't even imagine if our family was put in the same situation.

So, if you're the praying sort now would be the time to check in on those knees. Because there's a family out there that needs that extra voice.

Here's her blog to read more: http://oureyesopened.blogspot.com/

Tutorial Tuesday Make-up Bag and a it of a ramble

2011-04-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend was beautiful out! We had a work day around the Merry house and the garden was on the agenda.

When you're 2, gardening is a full body sport.

Both kiddos had fun working with Dad. I fully expect the plants to resemble a labyrinth once they start growing. Who knows where the seeds ended up! But look at the determination on that little face! He was soooo serious! Kept telling me "this is work, Mom. Hard work, Mom."

And in other news (said in my most cheesy anchor man voice) we have a gender neutral baby quilt top finish. My sis-in-law and her hubby aren't finding out what they're having until the big day. They're doing a black, white, and red nursery.

They're not "quilty" type people so I went a little "mod" with geometric prints and basic patchwork. This color scheme reminded me of those developmental toys that are supposed to stimulate baby.

Now, the tutorial. This make-up bag was so fun to make. I've a fear of zippers. I hate them with a passion. This was no exception. I'll be the first to admit. I skim directions. After striking the zipper with the needle, having it fly off and hit my in the forehead, and using a few choice words, I actually resigned myself to reading the directions. They worked! They're actually pretty awesome.

It's a pretty simple, lined bag. But it looks soo smart! It's fully lined and I made mine large enough to carry diapers and wipes when not in use for travel. For mine, I used 14"x 9" (just added 3" to her dimensions to account for my larger 12" zipper). I completed it (after reading the directions) in about 30min. The next one will probably go quicker. I didn't have the right size zipper so mine is larger than the example. I kept her proportions (she added two inches to the length of her zipper). The tutorial is VERY well written.

This tutorial comes to you from Leah of Sew Spoiled blog fame.

Click here for the free PDF tutorial as featured on Sew Mama Sew.

Thrifty Thursday Sewing Machine Review

2011-04-07T09:15:00.001-05:00

I realized a while back, that I never mentioned what kind of sewing machine I "invested" in after my old one went down in a blaze of glory. Really. It committed suicide I think. There was smoke.

Anyway. That put me on a crazy search for the "right" machine for me. As you can tell by the title of today's post that the machine I chose wasn't a dream machine. My dream machine comes with it's own room, serves me a cool beverage, and has a never ending bobbin.

I needed a work horse on a Shetland pony income. As much as this addiction/obsession has taken over my world, I have to keep it in perspective. It's a hobby. My last "machine" did the job. Barely. It was my starter machine. My "I'm probably not going to stick with this and will sell the damn thing at a yard sale next year" investment. I fully expected it to join the bone yard of exercise equipment that I "really was going to use!"

We all know how that went. I used it so much over the course of the next 4 years that it literally burnt up. Not bad for a $75 machine from Wally World.

But now I wanted a bit more. I wanted cute stitches, a longer arm for quilting (walking foot a must), quieter (my old one sounded like a Harley and rocked the whole table), and one of those drop in bobbin deals would be nice.

A full blown quilting machine just wasn't in the budget ($ or space wise).

So, there were several contenders.

These three were all pretty close in offerings. All well known names. All were available for me to touch. This is important to me because I like to see the real thing and each of these was available locally at different stores in town. (I did get mine through amazon in the end just because the price was cheaper and shipping was free)

In the end, it did come down to price. The offerings were soooo similar that really the only difference was the price. Brother had them beat. It helped that my previous machine was a Brother too. Soft spot I guess. Maybe I missed out. I'll never know. But I'm really happy with it. The picture doesn't show it but it comes with a handy table extension for quilting too. It came with all of the goodies (including walking foot for quilting). It took some getting used to the speed control because my old machine didn't have that. Now I love it though. I like the digital aspect of it A LOT. And the thing is QUIET. I can sew with the kids asleep. Big deal for me. I couldn't do that before. I would have Miss. Grumpy Pants down the hall yelling that she couldn't sleep with the "bumpy machine" going. No more!!

The biggest tell for me if the purchase was successful is the question would I do it again after trying it for awhile.

Yup. Sure would. I'm loving it!

So, for what it's worth.

Tutorial Tuesday Bib Tutorial

2011-04-05T11:16:00.000-05:00

This has got to be the easiest tutorial on the planet! If you're like me you'll not even need the printed words and just wing it with the pictures.

I've been struggling with shower gift ideas. What to do when you don't know the family well enough to invest the $ or time in a full quilt for baby. What to do when you know they already are receiving tons of quilts (very quilt-y family)-not that there ever is such a thing in my opinion....but I digress...

So, what else could I sew that doesn't cost much but will still get used and has the thoughtfulness of handmade?

This is what some scraps (literally) and a $1.50 clearance towel get!

I did several with magnetic snaps and several with Velcro just to see which I like better... Jury is still out on that one. Velcro wins for cost but I don't like messing with washing the stuff. We'll see how things hold up.

I used the super easy tutorial over at

Homemade by Jill

One change I would (and did) make when I made them was to save the center cutting for afterwards. I cut around the outer edge, sewed the whole thing up (leaving the hole for flipping), then, used the vertical line as a guide for my quarter inch seam allowance and sewed down both sides (kind of like making 1/2 square triangles from a full square). Then I just cut down the middle and around the circle before flipping the whole thing right side out.

LOVED this tutorial and will use it again! I can see these bibs being part of my go-to shower gift sets!

Homeless Quilter

2011-04-02T08:42:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, we're in the midst of our first adoption.

STRESS!!

But, that whole stress aside....

I'm loosing my sewing room!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, yes, I know, the sacrifice is well worth it. And yes, it is tempting to think about moving dear daughter number one to the shed (only kidding)

However, I'm really mourning the loss of my space. I've only recently obtained a space completely dedicated to my sewing. I should have knocked on some wood or something because it just wasn't meant to be.

I had this:

It wasn't much. My grandma's antique sewing table (oldie but a goodie), space to spread out, a door to SHUT, wall space to hang up, and STORAGE!!

But, now it seems I'll be back to this.

Unless I can convince the dear hubby that pins and needles really aren't THAT dangerous when ingested.

So, I'm on the look out for some really awesome, space friendly sewing storage. Stuff that hides completely what's inside (think serial killer's hidden stash)

I'm really loving this option...to bad we have no stairs!

I could totally see this as storage.

I have to keep in mind that it has to be hidden from little people, in plain sight, in my living and dining rooms. Hmmmmm....

Does anyone know where I can find a hidden panel thing like in the movies...

Yeah, that would come in handy!

In the mean time, the search continues. What's your "must have" storage solution?

Tutorial Tuesday Easter Crafts

2011-03-29T07:45:00.026-05:00

I am totally in the Easter Groove right now. This is pretty strange for me considering I usually get in the mood for a holiday right about the time to put away the decorations and the darn thing is already past.

But, right now, I'm feelin' it!

I'm really loving all of these cute little Easter dresses that are out right now.

I'm even hitting the Hobby Lobby for crafting ideas (which I'm usually forbidden to enter because I always leave with tons of junk I don't need and have no clue where to put, but GOSH it was way to cheap and way to cute to pass up).

So, when I stumbled over this new blog (new to me but I might be the last to find it) I was really excited. Because I might actually get to complete a holiday craft before the holiday is past!!

These are Kim of Retro Mama's Fabric Easter Eggs!

Aren't they way to cute?!

And I have to say, these are the perfect use for those tiny scraps! Or even huge! Can you see these in all different sizes all over the house? Oh, yeah, I'm getting excited!

Oh, we've also had a new addition to our family. My baby sis just gave me a new nephew!

Yup, he's a looker! And my niece isn't anything to sneeze at either!

Thrifty Thursday Fabric Sale Table

2011-03-24T17:43:00.000-05:00

Whew!! Didn't think I would make it! I didn't even realize today was Thursday. Then, by the time I did it took me another 2 hours to remember it was Thrifty Thursday time!

By the way, if anyone out there in blog land finds a great deal online for crafting/sewing/quilting type goodies feel free to email me so we can share! It can get stressful finding great deals every week (especially if you don't remember!)

Never fear though! I have a great selection today. My great go-to store for deals!

The virtual sale table at Hawthorne Threads

(and no, I don't get paid to say that!)

My favorite sale finds are those that you couldn't tell came from the sale area. Nothing worse than putting together a quilt with obvious "filler" fabric. I personally don't like spending money for good quality fabrics and then having to sew them to fabrics that were sitting in the store so long they're covered in dust and have really questionable designs. Take the discount table at Wally World. Obviously not gonna look great next to a name brand fabric.

Not that I'm a complete fabric snob....

But that's not a worry here:

Perfect for new spring sewing and all from the "sale" table!

Tutorial Tuesday Disappearing 9 patch

2011-03-22T11:29:00.000-05:00

This one is definitely classified as an "oldie but a goodie" as far as the quilting world is concerned.

I've recently had a request for a how to for the quilt:

I refuse to allow any one to do it the way I did. It was my first quilt and I had NO CLUE!! I took my pre-cut cardboard templates, traced, and cut with scissors each and every piece. Then, hand pieced and quilted it. Took FOREVER!! Really, it took over a year. I almost gave up on quilting completely.

However, in the months after, everyone who saw it asked if it was a disappearing 9 patch. Which lead me to the easy way of creating the same quilt. It will literally take a weekend to complete what took me a year.

Makes me sick to think about!

Save yourselves the trouble and just follow her directions!!

3 posts in one! Even a little about quilts!

2011-03-20T17:21:00.001-05:00

How do you like the facelift? No, not mine! (like I could afford that!) The blog! I was getting a little blah about the old one, and so I changed it up a bit. Unfortunately I have a problem making decisions, so if you have tuned in during one of the random make-over sessions, I'm truly sorry. The whiplash you might have encountered or the nausea some of the color choices gave you might have witnessed may still be in your memory banks. I thought that I had found one that screamed spring to me (I've been wishful). Unfortunately, after a few days it gave me a sense of claustrophobia every time I logged on. So, here is the new layout (unless I get a random identity crisis in the near future).

In other news....

Wow!! What a week last week was. If you're not in Kansas you might have just missed the biggest mood swing good ole Ma Nature has had for quite awhile!

We had summer for the beginning of the week. Temps reached the 80's. For March, in Kansas, that's quite a deal and was really welcomed with open arms and the trees started budding and the flowers were starting to poke their little heads out.

We got outside and enjoyed the weather. It was really bright and my kiddos take after their father which means their eyes actually disappear in the sunlight!

Then, the very next day, we awoke to this:

What in the Heck??

Ok, this is getting a little weird. It was 80 yesterday!!

See the poor little buds covered in snow!

So, I took advantage of the cold weather and did what any good Mom would do. Plopped her kids in front of the TV to get caught up on her quilting!

I love these pictures I took last year during burning season. This one was great for color inspiration. With spring in the air the smell of burning is all around (not today because of the SNOW!)

So, I dug into the stash and came up with a string quilt for baby.

Very productive couple of days. Did I mention we also took the time to make these?

Don't laugh at the pig salt/pepper shakers. I know you want to!

Then, by the end of the week back to this:

I wish I had the confidence to pull of this look! I need his stylist.

We're ready for ball season here!

Ok, now, mother nature is a little off her rocker! I don't need to tell those of you with kiddos out there what that does to little ones. My kids have gone bonkers!! Grace is demanding sidewalk chalk when there's three inches of snow (did I mention the snow was gone by the next day). Jack wants to sled when it's 80 outside.

And no one but Mommy wants to take a nap!!

So, if you happen to see me outside in the 80 degree temps wearing my parka or out grocery shopping in flip flops with snow on the ground just know I've finally cracked.

Thrifty Thursday Amazon Style

2011-03-17T17:33:00.000-05:00

Today's Thrifty Thursday is all about Amazon.com. I'll admit I'm already addicted but if I wasn't I would become that way.

I've just found out (ok, a little behind the times) that they actually have sewing stuff. What I love is it isn't just a big box store somewhere but actually a group of smaller stores. You could sell your stuff on Amazon, I could, your neighbor probably does! I just got my sewing machine there and it was actually cheaper than locally. Big deal for me!!

So, now they also have a deal where I can earn 15% off of all purchases that I can direct to their site. That's money going straight towards our adoption. I'm not going to lie, adoption isn't cheap!! So, if you are planning on making that random purchase from Amazon anyway, consider making through this blog (same price for you) and 15% of that purchase can go towards helping the world have

ONE LESS Orphan!!

I did mention that they also have fabric right?!

9 years later

2011-03-16T08:35:00.000-05:00

9 years ago, I got to marry my best friend. People thought we were nuts. 19 year old, freshman in college, getting married...when we didn't HAVE to. You know what I mean ;) There were a lot of people counting days back then! But we just knew.

When you get married that young you kind of get to grow up together. I mean, Lee, I knew you before your voice stopped cracking and you grew chest hair ;)

I got to watch you grow into the best dad. Here he is playing school bus. And yes, he really is scrawny enough to fit his butt into one of those tiny chairs.

You gave me a son that looks just like you. At times a blessing, at times a curse. Like when I'm trying to be all stern mommy and here is your little mini-me looking up. Urghhh!!

Happy anniversary Lee!!

LYLYBLB

Tutorial Tuesday String Quilt

2011-03-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

There's no doubt I love scrappy quilts. This tutorial is definitely a scrap buster. It's an oldie but a goodie and is usually my "go to" for quick baby quilts. You may remember this:

and I've got another in the works that is a gender neutral number using oranges and browns (think burning fields) so I thought I'd share the easiest tutorial in the world with you.

It's from Film in the Fridge. Here's the link:

http://www.filminthefridge.com/2009/04/27/a-string-quilt-block-tutorial-paper-pieced-method/

Hop on over there give it a try! I love using this one because there is absolutely NO measuring. I used a standard sheet of computer paper folded over to make a square (fold and rip). That's how I got the size of my squares. After that, it's just sewing strips to the paper and ripping it off at the end (like checks along a perforated line).

Try it, you'll like it! (sorry, I sounded a bit like mom with broccoli!)

On other non-quilty news, we're moving right along with our adoption. Of course it's not as quick as we would like but the wheels of bureaucracy only move so fast. We've just finished a class where you sit in a tiny room for 8 hours with four other couples while they tell you how to be parents. Interesting. I don't know about you, but getting a group of parents to agree on parenting -any kind of parenting- is like herding cats. Needless to say it was a LONG day! And there's always that guy in class. You know the one. The one with a billion questions and even more opinions that feels that he MUST express them at all times. I lost count of the tirades and the awkward silences that followed his random declarations. You know that guy in class that argues with the teacher over every little thing. I wanted to scream at him..."this isn't for a grade!! Just agree to disagree and MOVE ON!!" International adoption is a subject fraught with political land mines. Even with everyone there for the same reason, toss in different parenting styles, political beliefs, ages, religions, personalities. You get where I'm going here. It's just amazing to me that there wasn't a throw down at some point or that desks weren't tossed on their sides and an impromptu war waged across the conference room. But, at least we can say we're done with that step and we can check it off the list!

Tutorial Tuesday Bargello Quilt

2011-03-08T08:53:00.001-06:00

After yesterday's Bargello eye-candy I thought I had better deliver on my promise of the tutorial today. Here's what I've found.

Not a whole lot for free.

Here is a very beginner version. Nothing fancy but this tutorial details how to do the basic color shifting involved. They used scraps but you could see how using solids or specific colors in the place of the scraps would give you the awesome waves of color.

The tutorial takes you from this:

through this:

http://www.quiltville.com/scrapbargello.shtml

That's a great place to start. However, I wanted those awesome curved and flowing lines.

Bargello Quilts

This looks like it may be a promising book and I've been hearing awesome things about it all over the web...hmmm...maybe a good place to start. Look at the cover. You can see that she's broken it down and almost spills the secret to the curves with her color illustration. Different sized slices to put a curve to it.

Here's another option for some great ideas. There's also pictures from the inside of this book to get a feel for it. Gotta love pictures!

So, I guess this will be an on going project for me! I've got to do some experimenting it seems!

Monday Muse: Bargello Quilts

2011-03-07T08:25:00.000-06:00

Today, my inspiration is coming from one of the weirdest words I've seen.

Bargello.

Brings to mind another "B" word that means something COMPLETELY different ;) I'm a little dirty minded sometimes.

Bargelloquiltpatterns.com says The name originates from a series of chairs found in the Bargello palace in Florence, which have a "flame stitch" pattern. Meriam-Webster seems to agree so, there ya go!

Pictures from: http://bargelloquiltpatterns.com/

They look so intricate and time consuming. Like a painting from a master.

You can see that the color choices here would make or break the quilt. It would be a great choice to play with solid prints that are all the rage right now for modern quilting.

Don't they just look like gorgeous paintings? Quilty eye-candy? I've been drawn to these guys lately.

I am going to have to figure this out because I'm in love with the possibilities. Can you tell what I'll be doing today? Hopefully, I can find something so we can learn how to do this together. Maybe Tutorial Tuesday has already been decided!!

Have you already attempted this process? Be sure to email me some pics and tips to share!

Tutorial Tuesday Made by Marzipan

2011-03-01T13:02:00.000-06:00

Today's Tutorial Tuesday is a treasure trove. I stumbled upon this site completely by accident today. Well, technically I was searching for ideas for todays post....nothing like a bit of procrastination to add a little excitement to the day.

anywho...

Instead of one tutorial, you get a whole website of video tutorials. There are some really cute ideas here as well as great gift projects.

I'll admit, it took me awhile to get past the crazy video. I think she might actually be wearing the camera somehow. Not sure how that works but if you can get past that the directions are actually quite simple, and easy to follow.

Here's a sample for you:

Cute Head Band (already added to my to do list)

Easy Peasy Sock Monkey

Even I can follow these directions. I wonder if a few glasses of wine would counter act the swerving of the video?

For even more videos hop on over to

http://www.madebymarzipan.com/

Monday Muse Ireland

2011-02-28T13:30:00.000-06:00

In honor of the coming month, and the fun I had from last Monday's Muse, I've decided to share more pictures for Monday Muse.

This month I thought I would stick to inspiration from Ireland. I'm going to go a little nontraditional and pick pictures that aren't all necessarily green rolling hills (parts of Ireland really do look a lot like the flint hills of Kansas - where I'm from)

Proof?

Taken from my folk's house in Alma, KS not anywhere near the blarney capitol.

So, when I saw this one by Visualist Images / John Rogers on Flikr I was immediately in LOVE with these colors!

Here's an example of some of the colors in play:

Black Belt Quilt by dellajane-alicecruz

I'm really in LOVE with that photo. I'm sooo tempted to find that pub!!

Thrifty Thursday 50% off Fabric Sale

2011-02-24T10:58:00.000-06:00

Today's Thrifty Thursday features

I'll make it quick so you get there before they sell out! All of their fabric by the yard is 50% off!!!!!!!

COUPON CODE: "KABOOM"

Ok, that's got to be one of the best sales I've stumbled across since I've started this Thrifty Thursday thing!

They've got an awesome selection too!

Tutorial Tuesday Baby Carrier Podaegi

2011-02-22T12:04:00.002-06:00

Ok, so today's tutorial was chosen out of pure selfishness! I really love this carrier because of the simplicity of it. And as I announced yesterday, we're adopting from Korea, so a Korean baby carrier makes sense huh?!

The official name of this carrier is a Podaegi, but it may be known as a "pod" or simply "Asian style" carrier too.

I love that the blanket is usually a quilted affair (toasty for winter) and can be done in almost any way you can dream up for a quilt or keep it simple and use these directions! This is really a free for all!

There really is no such thing as the "typical" podaegi. They can be as narrow as your back and the child to be carried, or wide enough to wrap completely around mom.

Here are some pics of moms wearing different versions.

Get the idea??

Here's a great video of how to wear your Podaegi:

or for a newborn

They can be front carry, back carry, no shoulder straps (torso) really, any way that feels secure.

So, here goes with the tutorial!!

First, cut two straps from heavy weight fabric (this will be the weight bearing part of the carrier so think denim or home interior fabric) The length is going to vary from person to person. I recommend at least 5.5" wide and for my height and fluffiness I used 100" long (I ended up trimming off about 10" on each side after trying it on) remember, you can always trim off something too long but it's a lot harder to add it back if it's too short!

So, for my example I cut 2 straps, each measuring: 5.5" by 100"

1 yard fabric (still folded from the bolt)

Flip your yard right sides together.

Sew completely around edge using 1/4" seam allowance.

Now, this part will depend upon how thick you made your straps. If you followed the example your straps are 5.5". Once they've been folded in half and sewn together you'll have a strap that's 2.5" wide or (width of strap/2)-.5"for seam allowance. This is how long your going to want to cut off of the corners. (You'll be sliding your strap in this whole)

Cut both corners for the top of the blanket.

Fold your straps right sides together lengthwise and sew together.

Now comes the fusible fleece. Using your blanket for a pattern cut out the fleece and iron it on according to instructions. You can do the entire blanket for a fuller look or you can just do a head rest like I did. If you are using a completely quilted blanket for your carrier, you could just skip this part because you'll be padded already!

Attach the fusible fleece to the straps as well, you're shoulders will thank you! Start about 4" from the end so you won't have the bulky fleece to worry about when stuffing it inside the blanket later. The first 4" will be what goes inside the blanket.

Turn everything right side out (I know, those long straps are a pain!) You should see the size of the safety pin I use for this part!

When everything is right side out you can iron now if that's your thing! You've just seen my iron...it's obviously not my thing.

Place the straps inside the blanket and pin just before the start of your fusible fleece. Don't forget to tuck in your corners of the unfinished edge of the blanket. This part reminds me of finishing a pillow.

Now, back to the machine. You're really going to want to make sure this is really strong. This is where the weight will be carried. I use a box stitch here and reinforced it several times. I also took a couple of trips down the padded part of the strap to make sure that the padding doesn't slip around.

Now, try it on with your baby and decide how much strap you need. If it's too long, trim it up now. You can finish the raw ends of the straps but tucking them inside and hemming it up!

Congrats, you've just made the easiest carrier to use on the planet!!

Stylish Blogger Award!

2011-02-21T08:42:00.000-06:00

I think that this may just be the first time anyone has accused me of being stylish!!

A big thanks to Hadley of Flying Blind On A Rocket Cycle

fame! Truly an honor to be one of your "Fantastic Four"!!

So, next I'm supposed to stun you with 7 profound declarations about myself! Prepare to be amazed!

1. We're in the process of adopting from Korea! So, if I'm a little crazy right now that's the excuse I'll be using...not that I wasn't a tad bit touched to begin with, but that's the excuse all the same!

2. I absolutely love romance novels. The cheesier the better. I've done my fair share of reading for college courses and I think it fried my brain! I've read for "meaning" and for "substance" but now I'm just reading for "fun"!!

3. I love to choose colors for quilts that have absolutely no bearing in what I would actually decorate with. I'm drawn to bright and vivid fabrics, yet decorate with browns and creams. I'm thinking I have a latent flamboyant side screaming to get out.

4. I have a killer Mini Schnauzer. That's right, KILLER!! Hubby and I got her in college about 10 years ago. She wasn't the only dog, we had a Golden Retriever at the time (who died soon after and very young) we then also had a German Short Hair (that died of a stroke at a very young age)....seeing the pattern here? Every dog that comes in contact with our seemingly sweet little Schnauzer meets with an untimely death. Meanwhile, she's not had so much as a scratch her entire life! I guess she doesn't like sharing the kibble!

5. My hubby and I actually met when we were in high school at a large festival where he and his friends were camping next to us. We then went our separate ways and fast forward almost 4 years to college. We meet and start dating. Neither of us even remembered meeting until after we had been dating awhile and he happened to see pictures of the festival and he was in the background of the shots. Still a little weirded out by that one! So when people ask us how we met we both say, "which time?"

6. I'm in the middle of potty training my youngest. Enough said!

7. I once worked in a pet shop. I was behind a large window retrieving a hamster for a child (while the child stood there pointing- "NO, that one!") when the thing bit me. Clear down to the bone, right through the fingernail. So, here I am waiving this hamster from hell around because the thing won't let go. I've got tears and blood running all over, the kid is screaming that I'm going to hurt her hamster. When the thing finally let go it flew across the room and hit the wall....don't worry PETA the damn thing was fine. I'm bleeding like crazy though! I went to the back for a band-aid and the manager says that it's (the band-aid) is going to have to come out of my paycheck!!! I walked right out the front door and refuse to enter another pet store! Those animals are possessed!!

(still can't pet hamsters either!)

And so ends this segment of "More than you ever wanted to know!"

So, now it's my turn to pass the baton!

1. Jacquie of http://tallgrassprairiestudio.blogspot.com/

2. Heather of http://alamodefabric.blogspot.com/

3. KarrieLyne of http://www.freckledwhimsy.com/

4. Chelsea of http://pinkfigdesign.blogspot.com/

Thanks to these girls for all of the great ideas and the great reading!

Finished Quilt plus Mommy Brag!

2011-02-18T08:41:00.000-06:00

Well, it feels like it's been awhile since I've posted a finish. Seems like I've not had time to do much real quilting and have been absorbed by other sewing projects and daily life!

But, I've got a new nephew on the way so that had to change!

It's just a simple stitch in the ditch for the quilting because the request was for a "poofy" quilt. I know, I know. I like the more heavily quilted variety, but in today's world of comforters I always hear, "wow, that's really thin!" Do you hear that too? Do people really forget what a real quilt is like? Guess so.....

Anywho, this was also my first non-square quilt. Does that make sense? I've only done the make 40million squares the piece the squares together to form the quilt. This one though is like a huge square all on its own. I have to admit, it's pretty when it's done but a real B to maneuver the thing while piecing those long strips. But I do love the colors for a boy.

And I do need to take a second to brag on this little girl! We had teacher conferences yesterday. (yeah, OK, I know preschool barely counts but humor me!) And this momma was presented with what has to be the most awesome self-portrait ever painted by a four year old! I mean, the green eyebrows are to die for!

Congrats Grace on being the most awesome 4 yr old EVER!! I can't believe you'll be going to kindergarten ALL DAY next year!!

Thrifty Thursday Favorite Shop

2011-02-17T16:38:00.000-06:00

Today's Thursday. I'm sure you all were well aware of this fact. However, it completely popped up out of the blue at me. I've been politely minding my own business (yeah right!) and here it comes to slap me right in the face.

Anyway, it gives me an excuse to rave about my favorite shop (possibly in the entire planet)

So, okay, I'll admit that they aren't having the end-all-be-all sale to end the century right now. And that's what Thrifty Thursday is all about right...well...Thrifty does have an aspect that I've been overlooking and that is the "most for your money" part. Not just the cheap part.

They do have a really great sale section though:

Just a few samples to whet the appetite! They also have a sliding scale for price so the larger your cut, the lower your price. But aside from price, the selection is AWESOME! I love to look at their new stuff and their picks because I've got some serious fabric envy happening!

So, if your looking for the latest designer fabric you've been oogling, or something more off the beaten path like a random Japanese import. They've more than likely got it.

And don't forget to enter the weekly giveaway

(doesn't get thriftier than free!)

Remember, they're not an advertiser and I don't have anything to do with them other than stalking...er...window shopping (repeatedly).

I just enjoy a good deal!

Monday Muse, Quilting Inspiration

2011-02-14T10:19:00.000-06:00

So, I'm always looking for inspiration for color choices.

Then, over to pick out the colors (LOVE Kona Solids!)

Kona Brick, Rich Red, Clover, Ruby, Chartreuse, Grass Green, Curry, Buttercup, Corn Yellow

Vineyards Quilt of Nature in Autumn...
from Batikart

Can you see it? I can see so many different colors. (and even the shapes can be directly interpreted!) What an awesome shot! Makes me wish I could live in that little house in the top shot!

I don't think God ever miss matches his colors!!

I love using nature photos because it makes you choose colors that you love in nature but wouldn't necessarily choose to purchase in fabric! Journey outside of that comfort zone!!