(More info on Heather's blog. Stay tuned to find out how you can help, thanks to your crafty community...)
Showing posts with label quilting community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label quilting community. Show all posts
3.18.2011
Helping those in need
Coming soon...
(More info on Heather's blog. Stay tuned to find out how you can help, thanks to your crafty community...)
(More info on Heather's blog. Stay tuned to find out how you can help, thanks to your crafty community...)
12.21.2010
Reflections - Part I
If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you know by now that I'm pretty reflective person. In general, I try to be as self-aware and aware of the world around me as I can. I look forward to milestones, holidays, and other moments that invite reflection and positive thinking.
The ultimate cliche of New Year's reflection is one that I always make sure to note. It's been one crazy year (and really, for my own personal reflection purposes, I'm including a few months of 2009 too since so much happened at the very end) and I feel like there are many ways that I want to look back on the past year (and change) in order to get ready for 2011.
I plan to do a series of posts about reflection, some of which are craft-related, some of which are not. Pick and choose which ones you'd like to read. And be sure to drop me a line if you plan to write about your own reflections!
Firstly, this has been an enormously crafty year for me, in part due to my limited employment (look for employment/job-related reflections in another post coming up soon). While obviously I would have preferred gainful employment in a degree-using job, I am thankful in a way that I've had the time and space (and the resources thanks to a generous support circle and very forgiving roommate who lets me take over a corner of our tiny living room - thanks sweetie!) to create a serious bunch of quilts!
I have compiled a list of all the quilts I've finished (including all the way back to June 2009, when I finished my first quilt!), as well as the bee blocks completed (see this pic - it's missing a few still but it'll give you an idea of how busy I've been in the virtual quilting world!), and also unfinished projects and random projects.
In looking back, I'm very proud of how much I've made. I feel like I have a definite "style" when it comes to quilting, and have gained a lot of knowledge about the craft itself.
In light of that, my knitting has sort of taken a back seat. I've been knitting for almost 12 years now and I don't think anything will comfort me like the sound of clicking needles and the feel of a handknitted garment in my lap. All the hats I wear are my own handmade creations and I have a number of sweaters that I treasure. We also have a cozy lap blanket knitted up that has recently made it's winter debut on our sofa (brr, chilly temps). Part of the lack of knitting is due to my newfound interest in quilting, but also to the simple fact that knitting is expensive! Yes, yes, quilting isn't exactly cheap but I would argue that through various means, it's cheaper to make a quilt (and build a fabric stash, at least for me). When I knit, I usually buy wool for a specific project. I'm also kind of a yarn snob (haha, big surprise, I know) so the skeins I covet are typically on the expensive side (hello, my newest love, Madeline Tosh Pashmina!). While I have a number of unfinished projects (2 gorgeous sweaters) as well as a handful of ideas for new wares, I've definitely focused more of my creative energy (and my wallet) on quilting. Knitting is like an old friend - I know that we can always pick up where we left off, even if we spend time apart. I do plan to get back into knitting after the new year. In fact, I've just dropped my sewing machine off to be serviced and plan on taking this "quilting break" (haha, except for when I head upstate at the end of the week and will most likely be using my mom's machine!) to focus on knitting, embroidery (another new skill gained this year - check out my first completed project) and some hand sewing (yay hexies!). I finished my quilty holiday gifts and will post pictures of them after they make their way to the recipients!
So in general, I've had a very good year, craft wise. Now, for the lists/numbers/descriptions:
Quilting Bee Blocks
I'm a member of 3 different virtual quilting bees. One is ending this month (though I still have to finish the blocks for it...) and the other two will end early next spring. In total, I have completed 41 quilt blocks (with 3 currently waiting to be worked on). I've done log cabins, string blocks, ticker tape blocks, and so many others. I've loved being part of each woman's creative process and look forward to assembling the blocks I've received for my months (2 out of the 3 bees so far). Be sure to check out this set to see all the blocks I've worked on. Thanks to Erin for all her hard work organizing and running a big part of the virtual community related to bees! Check out Quilting Bee Blocks for pictures, interviews, links to Flickr, and more.
Swaps and Quilt-Alongs
I've jumped on the swap train that is currently taking over Flickr. Thanks in a large part to Heather and Kerri, swap mammas extraordinaire, I've participated in the last 2 rounds of The Pillow Talk {Swap} and am definitely hooked. I've received 2 gorgeous pillows and can't wait to get more (though my sweetie may roll his eyes - we'll need more furniture to hold these pillows! Haha). A number of blogs have held quilt-alongs and serve as fun, community-esque places (albeit, virtual) to work "together" on projects. I finished the quilt top for Julie's Hexagon Quilt-Along but it has yet to be basted or quilted. Stay tuned in 2011 to see it pan out.
Etsy
I've gone back and forth about my Etsy shop. Ultimately, I haven't put as much time or effort into it as it really needs. I will probably close it down soon. I'm not really that upset, since I'm still having a blast quilting!
Other crafty connections
People have definitely been able to see my work. A colleague commissioned me to turn a handful of her sorority teeshirts into a quilt. It was my first true commission and I look forward to many more! The amazing virtual world of quilting has definitely drawn me in. There are a whole handful of incredibly talented crafters whose blogs are my go-to ones in my Google Reader. I've learned so much and been inspired by so many of you - thank you! Special shout out to John, Greta, Leanne, and Brooke, as you've all been great pals through instruction, creative process, and just general life. :) But seriously, you ALL rock! And to my readers, whether or not you're quilters, sewists, knitters or none of the above, THANK YOU! I read all your comments and am profoundly grateful that you check in here to my little corner of the virtual universe.
Here's the total break down:
Quilting Bee Blocks: 41
Swaps: 2 pillows sent, 2 pillows received
Quilt-Alongs: 1 (quilt top completed)
UFOs (unfinished objects): 10 (some completed tops, some need to be pieced, etc.)
Other crafty/quilty projects: lampshade, embroidered quote, a ridiculous amount of handsewn hexagons
Finished quilts (since June 2009): 20!!!!! (check out most of them here)
Stay tuned for more reflection posts before we ring in 2011...
The ultimate cliche of New Year's reflection is one that I always make sure to note. It's been one crazy year (and really, for my own personal reflection purposes, I'm including a few months of 2009 too since so much happened at the very end) and I feel like there are many ways that I want to look back on the past year (and change) in order to get ready for 2011.
I plan to do a series of posts about reflection, some of which are craft-related, some of which are not. Pick and choose which ones you'd like to read. And be sure to drop me a line if you plan to write about your own reflections!
Firstly, this has been an enormously crafty year for me, in part due to my limited employment (look for employment/job-related reflections in another post coming up soon). While obviously I would have preferred gainful employment in a degree-using job, I am thankful in a way that I've had the time and space (and the resources thanks to a generous support circle and very forgiving roommate who lets me take over a corner of our tiny living room - thanks sweetie!) to create a serious bunch of quilts!
I have compiled a list of all the quilts I've finished (including all the way back to June 2009, when I finished my first quilt!), as well as the bee blocks completed (see this pic - it's missing a few still but it'll give you an idea of how busy I've been in the virtual quilting world!), and also unfinished projects and random projects.
In looking back, I'm very proud of how much I've made. I feel like I have a definite "style" when it comes to quilting, and have gained a lot of knowledge about the craft itself.
In light of that, my knitting has sort of taken a back seat. I've been knitting for almost 12 years now and I don't think anything will comfort me like the sound of clicking needles and the feel of a handknitted garment in my lap. All the hats I wear are my own handmade creations and I have a number of sweaters that I treasure. We also have a cozy lap blanket knitted up that has recently made it's winter debut on our sofa (brr, chilly temps). Part of the lack of knitting is due to my newfound interest in quilting, but also to the simple fact that knitting is expensive! Yes, yes, quilting isn't exactly cheap but I would argue that through various means, it's cheaper to make a quilt (and build a fabric stash, at least for me). When I knit, I usually buy wool for a specific project. I'm also kind of a yarn snob (haha, big surprise, I know) so the skeins I covet are typically on the expensive side (hello, my newest love, Madeline Tosh Pashmina!). While I have a number of unfinished projects (2 gorgeous sweaters) as well as a handful of ideas for new wares, I've definitely focused more of my creative energy (and my wallet) on quilting. Knitting is like an old friend - I know that we can always pick up where we left off, even if we spend time apart. I do plan to get back into knitting after the new year. In fact, I've just dropped my sewing machine off to be serviced and plan on taking this "quilting break" (haha, except for when I head upstate at the end of the week and will most likely be using my mom's machine!) to focus on knitting, embroidery (another new skill gained this year - check out my first completed project) and some hand sewing (yay hexies!). I finished my quilty holiday gifts and will post pictures of them after they make their way to the recipients!
So in general, I've had a very good year, craft wise. Now, for the lists/numbers/descriptions:
Quilting Bee Blocks
I'm a member of 3 different virtual quilting bees. One is ending this month (though I still have to finish the blocks for it...) and the other two will end early next spring. In total, I have completed 41 quilt blocks (with 3 currently waiting to be worked on). I've done log cabins, string blocks, ticker tape blocks, and so many others. I've loved being part of each woman's creative process and look forward to assembling the blocks I've received for my months (2 out of the 3 bees so far). Be sure to check out this set to see all the blocks I've worked on. Thanks to Erin for all her hard work organizing and running a big part of the virtual community related to bees! Check out Quilting Bee Blocks for pictures, interviews, links to Flickr, and more.
Swaps and Quilt-Alongs
I've jumped on the swap train that is currently taking over Flickr. Thanks in a large part to Heather and Kerri, swap mammas extraordinaire, I've participated in the last 2 rounds of The Pillow Talk {Swap} and am definitely hooked. I've received 2 gorgeous pillows and can't wait to get more (though my sweetie may roll his eyes - we'll need more furniture to hold these pillows! Haha). A number of blogs have held quilt-alongs and serve as fun, community-esque places (albeit, virtual) to work "together" on projects. I finished the quilt top for Julie's Hexagon Quilt-Along but it has yet to be basted or quilted. Stay tuned in 2011 to see it pan out.
Etsy
I've gone back and forth about my Etsy shop. Ultimately, I haven't put as much time or effort into it as it really needs. I will probably close it down soon. I'm not really that upset, since I'm still having a blast quilting!
Other crafty connections
People have definitely been able to see my work. A colleague commissioned me to turn a handful of her sorority teeshirts into a quilt. It was my first true commission and I look forward to many more! The amazing virtual world of quilting has definitely drawn me in. There are a whole handful of incredibly talented crafters whose blogs are my go-to ones in my Google Reader. I've learned so much and been inspired by so many of you - thank you! Special shout out to John, Greta, Leanne, and Brooke, as you've all been great pals through instruction, creative process, and just general life. :) But seriously, you ALL rock! And to my readers, whether or not you're quilters, sewists, knitters or none of the above, THANK YOU! I read all your comments and am profoundly grateful that you check in here to my little corner of the virtual universe.
Here's the total break down:
Quilting Bee Blocks: 41
Swaps: 2 pillows sent, 2 pillows received
Quilt-Alongs: 1 (quilt top completed)
UFOs (unfinished objects): 10 (some completed tops, some need to be pieced, etc.)
Other crafty/quilty projects: lampshade, embroidered quote, a ridiculous amount of handsewn hexagons
Finished quilts (since June 2009): 20!!!!! (check out most of them here)
Stay tuned for more reflection posts before we ring in 2011...
10.16.2010
Ok, ok, I'm IN!
Originally, I said that I wasn't going to do the next round of the Pillow Talk Swap. Buuuttt, I had so much fun and got a GREAT pillow last time. I feel like this time as long as I start planning early, I'll be really psyched to do it. I think I was just intimidated last time! But seriously, it's so much fun and I get so inspired by the creativity of others that I can't wait to see who my partner is. Here's my inspiration mosaic for my secret pillow-maker:
Now I'm off to see one of my best friends get married today - yay! I also get to see two of my other really good friends. We all met while studying abroad in London 6 1/2 years ago (eek!) and while we've been all over, we still have an incredible bond. Mazel tov, Amy!
Have a great weekend everyone!
We are friends for life. When we're together, the years fall away. Isn't that what matters? To have someone who can remember you? To have someone who remembers how far you've come? ~ Judy Blume
Now I'm off to see one of my best friends get married today - yay! I also get to see two of my other really good friends. We all met while studying abroad in London 6 1/2 years ago (eek!) and while we've been all over, we still have an incredible bond. Mazel tov, Amy!
Have a great weekend everyone!
We are friends for life. When we're together, the years fall away. Isn't that what matters? To have someone who can remember you? To have someone who remembers how far you've come? ~ Judy Blume
5.24.2010
The Process
Rossie posted a little while back about documenting the process of quilting, all the way from thinking of the layout and the fabric, through the cutting and piecing stages, up until the very end of the final shot (typically out of the washing machine).
I like this idea a lot as I'm always curious about what inspires people. I also am a big believer/follower of process learning and find that I get the most out of an experience if I focus on the project. Professionally (as someone trained in conflict resolution) I think it's arguable that the process is the most important part.
So I'm joining in, taking Rossie's process pledge (you'll notice the nifty new widget on the side). You'll see more about my processes here soon.
I like this idea a lot as I'm always curious about what inspires people. I also am a big believer/follower of process learning and find that I get the most out of an experience if I focus on the project. Professionally (as someone trained in conflict resolution) I think it's arguable that the process is the most important part.
So I'm joining in, taking Rossie's process pledge (you'll notice the nifty new widget on the side). You'll see more about my processes here soon.
Shamless self promotion
I'm featured by the guest writer, Allison, on today's "Pick Five" post over at Quilting Bee Blocks! Check it out here. (The blocks were made for Rachel for her month of Fresh Comfort Two!)
Woohoo! :)
Woohoo! :)
4.23.2010
Friday fun
Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all have exciting weekend plans. Mine include park time with my sweetie and the dog, Purl's big Customer Appreciation Day, and hopefully some other fun things.
Speaking of fun, John is having the most amazing giveaway on his blog, celebrating his 2 year bloggy anniversary! Many of us from the crafting community have joined in the celebration and offered up some goodies to win. I've donated this big bundle of scraps (including some AMH, Joel Dewberry and yep, a little scrap of Flea Market Fancy!)
Good luck!
Speaking of fun, John is having the most amazing giveaway on his blog, celebrating his 2 year bloggy anniversary! Many of us from the crafting community have joined in the celebration and offered up some goodies to win. I've donated this big bundle of scraps (including some AMH, Joel Dewberry and yep, a little scrap of Flea Market Fancy!)
Good luck!
4.21.2010
Woohoo!
Yesterday I sold a quilt! This lovely one is off to it's new home in England.
:) :) :)
Sooooo excited! Especially since it was the one I had reservations about, design-wise.
In other news...
My sweetie has been working like a dog this week on a big case. We're talking super-late nights. Poor buddy. I don't think the dog remembers him (just kidding, honey!).
My little sis has secured an apartment for this summer here! She'll be working downtown and living in Alphabet City with a high school friend of hers. Far from me but much closer than here.
This weekend is Purl's big Customer Appreciation Day. I'm really psyched to see their new shop - the pictures look gorgeous! I'm getting paid tomorrow (YAY) and in combo with selling a quilt, I'm allowing myself a (very tiny) budget to buy a few things. AND, Leanne will be here and we're tying to meet face to face.
Have a good day everyone - the week is half over!
:) :) :)
Sooooo excited! Especially since it was the one I had reservations about, design-wise.
In other news...
My sweetie has been working like a dog this week on a big case. We're talking super-late nights. Poor buddy. I don't think the dog remembers him (just kidding, honey!).
My little sis has secured an apartment for this summer here! She'll be working downtown and living in Alphabet City with a high school friend of hers. Far from me but much closer than here.
This weekend is Purl's big Customer Appreciation Day. I'm really psyched to see their new shop - the pictures look gorgeous! I'm getting paid tomorrow (YAY) and in combo with selling a quilt, I'm allowing myself a (very tiny) budget to buy a few things. AND, Leanne will be here and we're tying to meet face to face.
Have a good day everyone - the week is half over!
4.20.2010
Sunshine
Spring is back after a few days of hiding (cooler temps and cloudy skies) so I'm off to take my buddy to the park for some play time. But I wanted to first show you some goodies:These blocks were done for Shelly for her month of Fresh Comfort 2. They sewed up easily and I love her fabric choices!
Also, one of my favorite quilty bloggers, John, is celebrating his 2 year anniversary of his blog! He'll be hosting a giveaway soon and invited other members of the virtual quilting community to offer up goodies. I'm donating this awesome pile of scraps. See anything good? Yeah, I thought so. Be sure to check back at John's blog soon for details.
Also, one of my favorite quilty bloggers, John, is celebrating his 2 year anniversary of his blog! He'll be hosting a giveaway soon and invited other members of the virtual quilting community to offer up goodies. I'm donating this awesome pile of scraps. See anything good? Yeah, I thought so. Be sure to check back at John's blog soon for details.
4.19.2010
Progress
Quick post today as I've got a bunch of stuff to do before I head into work this afternoon.
I've been making serious progress on my New Wave Quilt (Laura Gunn version). Progress, as in the quilt top is finished! My mom ordered a bunch of Kona Cottons, including some I need for the backing so until that arrives AND I can get some batting (read = afford to get the really nice, high loft cotton), this top will have to wait. (Please excuse Louie, for the windowsill is HIS space and I was clearly invading.)
I've also joined the Hexagon-Quilt-Along led by Julie. I'm using Joel Dewberry's Modern Meadow (jelly roll purchased here) and am loving the bright, fun fabrics.
Happy Monday!
I've been making serious progress on my New Wave Quilt (Laura Gunn version). Progress, as in the quilt top is finished! My mom ordered a bunch of Kona Cottons, including some I need for the backing so until that arrives AND I can get some batting (read = afford to get the really nice, high loft cotton), this top will have to wait. (Please excuse Louie, for the windowsill is HIS space and I was clearly invading.)
I've also joined the Hexagon-Quilt-Along led by Julie. I'm using Joel Dewberry's Modern Meadow (jelly roll purchased here) and am loving the bright, fun fabrics.
Happy Monday!
4.06.2010
100
I can't believe it but this is my 100th blog post! Phew, that was fast! Since it snuck up on me, I didn't plan any sort of giveaway or special feature post. That will have to be planned for my 1 year blog-a-versary (also coming sooner than I realized!). For now, let me just say that I've enjoyed blogging and hope that you enjoy reading. I have no idea who or how many there are of you out there...
Today was glorious. This morning it started out cloudy but then the sun came out and it was actually HOT outside. I wore flip flops (which I swore I would do less and less in this dirty city). I sported my insanely huge sunglasses. I made sure to put some sunscreen on my pasty skin (it's truly embarrassingly pale). Now I'm sitting here with the windows open and thinking that ice cream would be a good appetizer for dinner.
Today was my day off from work and the main event was a job interview. FINALLY. It hasn't actually been that long since my last one but these waiting periods seem endless. We're talking agony (I'm sure many of you know what I mean). This job would be.......perfect. Seriously. I wouldn't joke about this. In fact, it's so perfect and amazing that I have to stop talking/writing/thinking about it because I'll go nuts. I should hear next week if I made it to the second round. And that will have to be all about that for now. (Gulp.)
On the crafting front, the baby quilts (4 out of 5 - the last one is half-bound) are in the wash as we speak. Expect to see them go up in my shop this weekend. I promise I'll get my butt in gear and FINALLY reopen it.
I've been working on the New Wave Quilt, the Laura Gunn version. Is it absurd that I'm doing 2 versions of the same quilt? I just love it. One goes with this quilt (I like matching things - I'm a nerd). The other one is mostly pink and girly (don't think my sweetie will be sitting under it very much). They look very different so I'm going to say it's OK.
P.S. Erin has started a website for the beloved Flickr group Quilting Bee Blocks. Check it out here!
Today was glorious. This morning it started out cloudy but then the sun came out and it was actually HOT outside. I wore flip flops (which I swore I would do less and less in this dirty city). I sported my insanely huge sunglasses. I made sure to put some sunscreen on my pasty skin (it's truly embarrassingly pale). Now I'm sitting here with the windows open and thinking that ice cream would be a good appetizer for dinner.
Today was my day off from work and the main event was a job interview. FINALLY. It hasn't actually been that long since my last one but these waiting periods seem endless. We're talking agony (I'm sure many of you know what I mean). This job would be.......perfect. Seriously. I wouldn't joke about this. In fact, it's so perfect and amazing that I have to stop talking/writing/thinking about it because I'll go nuts. I should hear next week if I made it to the second round. And that will have to be all about that for now. (Gulp.)
On the crafting front, the baby quilts (4 out of 5 - the last one is half-bound) are in the wash as we speak. Expect to see them go up in my shop this weekend. I promise I'll get my butt in gear and FINALLY reopen it.
I've been working on the New Wave Quilt, the Laura Gunn version. Is it absurd that I'm doing 2 versions of the same quilt? I just love it. One goes with this quilt (I like matching things - I'm a nerd). The other one is mostly pink and girly (don't think my sweetie will be sitting under it very much). They look very different so I'm going to say it's OK.
P.S. Erin has started a website for the beloved Flickr group Quilting Bee Blocks. Check it out here!
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