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Victory Star Center Blocks Done
My project du jour is Victory Stars, a pattern and kit designed by Paula Barnes for Red Crinoline Quilts. I have thoroughly enjoyed the process of making the center blocks, done in shades of navy and a golden tan background color. The blocks each have a center square in a contrasting color, which I think…
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Book Reviews
I have been reading voraciously lately–maybe that is why I haven't been getting any sewing done! We have been finally getting some rainy days, and I have been spending my afternoons curled up on the couch with some good books. Of course I had to read Sue Monk Kidd's The Invention of Wings, as everyone…
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Method for Applique Circles
When I was working on my Dresden Plates applique project a few months back, I had prepped three or four circles for stitching, using the clear plastic heat resistant circle templates, starch and a running stitch. It takes time to prep this way, but the circles turn out just perfect. There are tons of tutorials…
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Back into the Swing of Things
Vacations are terrific, but isn't coming home just the best? We spent the evening unwinding in front of the tv, watching the Oscars. I hadn't been able to see most of the nominated movies, but certainly enjoyed seeing the beautiful gowns the attendees were wearing. My first prize goes to Lupita Nyong'o, who won in…
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Dresden Plates–Six Done
Before I went on vacation, I had finished six Dresden Plate blocks. Well, three are completely done, and three just need the center circle appliqued on. I prepped three more blocks to stitch on while traveling, but so far haven't opened up my sewing bag. Who knows maybe today I will work on them before…
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Happiest Place on Earth
Sorry to have dropped out of sight like that. I have been visiting the Happiest Place on Earth with my little grand daughter, and have been just too busy to blog! We are having a blast and I will be back to regular posting in a jiffy.
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All Stitched Up Club
Shabby Fabrics is offering a new Block of the Month program, featuring patterns created by Kathy Schmitz. Each month you construct a little mat combinging patchwork and embroidery. Shabby Fabric provides the kits which include fabric and embroidery transfers. You also get a spool of Sulky thread and a Micron pen. Now, you all know…
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Organizing Block Units
I know. This looks like a complete mess, but actually shows a method that keeps me organized. When I am making a compex block with multiple units, I have to keep myself organized so the components of the block don't get all mixed up. What I have used for years is plastic baggies to hold…
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Small Star Block Options
You know I love to show you all how human I am when it comes to my sewing. I make mistakes every now and then just like anyone else, and sometimes I do have to laugh at myself at how dingy I can be. When I took the Victory Star class, the instructor, Paula Barnes,…
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Victory Star Block Units
Here is my Victory Star block, which is comprised of two different units and a solid center square. The units are not very complicated, but when you are first making a block, you do have to concentrate a bit on what you are doing, and particularly the direction you are sewing your "sew and flip"…