"Embrace your Journey 1 Stitch @ a Time in 2024!"

 Hey quilter's...hope everyone is enjoying your Holiday season. I wanted to take the time to wish everyone a joyous New Year. We all have our memorable moments and maybe even some that we hope to not encounter again. I know one thing that I've had to realize is to embrace whatever comes my way, whether good or bad.  I'm so thankful for the blessings and I hope the hardships have made me a stronger person. I'm looking forward to a New Year of sharing and inspiring others to fall in love with the quilting. I for one can definitely say..."It's not your grammas quilts anymore". Although I love to put a spin on traditional quilt designs. When you follow along with me on my "Scrap-a-longs" I always state "it's your quilt so get creative and make it your own." I always hope to inspire your creative thinking and honestly that is why I love designing quilts. I'm excited about the designs that I'll be sharing with y'all in 2024. I will be creating with quality products from Missouri Star Quilt Co. and offering a monthly discount on their products as well. I will state on each design and have a link that starts on January 1st for your convenience. So, here's to wishing us all a "Scrap-tacular year full of Joy & to embrace our journey....1 Stitch @ a time!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Christmas Blessings to y'all!

 Hey quilter's...wishing everyone a Blessed Christmas or as we quilter's like to say...Merry Quilt-mas. Either way wrap it up with joy and peace for a wonderful day. Chuck and Jazz had an eventful last night together and hoping she comes back next year. :-) I thank you so much for following and looking forward to a year full of Quilt-mas Cheer! Remember keep those Christmas Scraps out! 

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Cats Christmas "Sneak Peek" for 2024!

 Hey quilter's....it's Friday...and Christmas is right around the corner. I know you're probably going yagh like me cause it's my favorite time of the year. This Christmas is very special because I'm at my daughter's and that' the best present ever! I'm excited to do Christmas cooking and baking with the family. Making memories in the kitchen is so special for this Gege. I'm excited to see everyone's reaction when they receive the "gift card holders" that I made doing the "Charm Pack Challenge." If it's a great reaction, then I will definitely come up with some creative designs for 2024. A charm pack is a great for having choices of the collection and great space saver too. Not everyone has the space or even money to have yards of a collection, so a Charm pack is genius! I also want to give you a "sneak peek" of a Christmas Scrap-a-long that I'll be starting soon on blog. Recently our sweet Elf "Jazz" brought back with her a gift from Santa. Well, I guess he does see you when your sewing/quilting. But that's o.k. too because I love this kit and have been wanting it...win..win! I'll be doing a "twist" with the design and can't wait to share with y'all. The quality of this design "Measure Once...Cuss Twice" is wonderful. The instructions, design of the kit is excellent. The kit even has optional quote sayings as well. Misty Doan w/ Missouri Star Quilt Co. has a great tutorial on a wall hanging too! I love how Santa has "connections" to the Missouri Star Quilt Company. Have a great weekend and prayers for a Magical Season. Talk soon!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Lit-up 4 Santa!...Phase 4 & Finishing

 Hey quilter's...hope your week is going great. I've recently realized that I'm a wimp! Oh my gosh...50* in Florida and I could be connected to an electric blanket. It's kind of funny of how your body gets accustomed to warm weather then when it gets cold you or "me" freak, but in my "defense" it's very humid in Florida which makes the cold worse. In my opinion anyway :-) I have some great news to share that I'll be featuring on my posts starting in January the discounts again with Missouri Star Quilt Co. I'm excited to continue the "affiliate program" which allows me to offer a discount to your as well. When I feature my Quilt-mas all year scrap-a-longs in 2024 you'll see the info. I love the quality of items that Missouri Star Quilt Co. offers plus they have great customer service. Win... win in my book! Well, I finally finished this cute baby quilt for my God-niece. I will say that "tacking" was the way to go for me on a domestic machine. I personally have a difficult time sewing with minky fabric on the back. I know a lot of quilters don't have this issue and maybe that's something I can overcome in the future. This design is so versatile as I stated from the beginning. I'll be incorporating those adorable Christmas Light templates in future scrap-a-longs in 2024. Finishing the quilt, I did my border/binding technique so depending on how large you made your quilt then adjust your borders accordingly. I will say for me anyway that sewing the binding by "hand" on the back was great. Minky fabric slides a bit and you have more control with hand sewing. Yes, it's a bit old school but look at is being therapeutic with all the Christmas rush. I know...that didn't work for me either :-) Also. use great quality thread. I preach a lot of Aurifil 50# thread and Missouri Star 50# thread. The quality is amazing and if you're going to spend the time on a handmade quilt then make it a bit easier on you as well. Remember I did "tacking" on my baby lock which made it a bit easier too with the Minky fabric on back. They look like little snowflakes which made it super cute. Also, an extra step...tip to share with you is that I also stitched in the ditch on the front border after hand sewing. Yes, it's an extra step but know it's a baby quilt was worth it. I hope it lasts for many years to come as she grows and enjoys cuddling with this quilt counting down the days until Santa. Remember this is the first of many Quilt-mas Scrap-a-longs so save those Christmas scraps. I'm super exciting of the designs to share with y'all in 20204 and a very special feature too. Hmmm...keep following y'all...we'll have a blast! Talk soon!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Lit-up 4 Santa!...Phase 3

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all are having a great Friday. This week flew for me. I love it when I don't have any doc appts. in a week just home PT. I never thought I would admit to that...for sure! Well, I'm embracing for a crazy weather weekend and if you are too my prayers are with you as well. I wanted to go ahead and post phase 3 of the design. You never know how the power will be affected. Plus, it will definitely be a fun step if you are stranded inside due to rain. I love making "bias cut strands." They are so much fun to work with...making curves...etc. If you're not familiar with a bias cut it allows you to "stretch" the fabric to make the curves. You cut a 45* angle which gives you the stretch in your fabric. Because I'm a bit stingy with this stunning fabric by Moda I just cut a square at a time to not waste any. I love how the Platinum Ombre Flurries was perfect for the strands. If you're following my design, then do a square at a time and only fully secure the strands that you won't be carrying over to another square. This is why I fully recommend "layout out" your design to get the feel of how you want your "strands" to connect to the Christmas Bulbs. Due to my design being a baby quilt I did a "X" at the top of the bulb to symbolize a bow. You can always make it look like it "tucked" into the top of bulb then do decorative stitching at the top. You know me it's a fun project so get creative and have fun. I am trying to get this finished for a gift this year, but this is just the first of many projects to come. We'll be having a year of "Quilt-Mas Cheer" in 2024 so save those scraps. If you're like me sewing with Christmas fabric brings me joy and takes my mind of pain for a few minutes. Hey, I'll take a minute or two without pain! :-) Oh, one item that I forgot to mention that helps this design come together is playing your favorite Christmas music. I know sounds weird, but it keeps me calm when I'm sewing. If you get stranded in house due to weather and still have shopping to do see my previous post on making small gifts. You will definitely use up some of those scraps :-) Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Making the 'Strands"...

* Rotary cut a 13" square from Moda Ombre Flurries Platinum. Press if needed.

* Make a 45* cut...then using your ruler make another cut 3/4" wide using your first 45* cut as your guide. Continue this method to make as many cuts as possible. I did a lot of strands and repeated this method twice. I made my strands look a bit "twisted." Remember it's your quilt so have fun and make as many as you like :-)

* Carefully press each "strand" in half.

Tip...Make as needed to not waste fabric :-)

* Per design layout...layout strands like you are connecting the bulbs from end to end. I started at top and made a curve wrapping around but do what is easy for you. 

* I then did a decorative zig zag stitch using Aurifil 50 weight # 2615 to secure the strands only on the areas that I would not be connecting to another block. This might seem tedious but it's a lot easier maneuvering one block when stitching then a whole pieced quilt on your sewing machine. 

Tip...I made my "strand tails" a bit longer. You can always trim them as you go.

* Once you get the idea of how your strands will flow throughout the quilt & your appliqued parts that you can to each block then you can start sewing your squares together.

* I started with one row at a time being careful not to sew the "strand tails" that are loose.

* Sew blocks with right sides together & using a 1/4" seam allowance.

* Tip...you will have "bulk" from the batting so take your time and adjust your machine if needed. 

* Carefully press each seam open on back.

* Per design I did one row at a time being careful to follow the design layout. See pic below.

Note...I started the layout of blocks on my guest bed...then on the floor by my sewing machine. A design wall would be great to keep the blocks in order...:-) 

Connecting Strands... 

* Once you are happy with your design then you can sew your rows together being careful not to sew the "loose strands" or the "tails."

* You will use a 1/4" inch seam allowance and follow the same method as piecing the blocks.

* Now you can "connect the strand tails" to the next block. This is the step I'm currently doing. No pic yet...wanted y'all to continue yours without any delays on my part :-) 

Remember...take your time with the decorative stitching on strands...use a tiny stitch length for easy maneuvering. If you pinned like I did just be careful to remove pins before sewing...trust me :-)

Have fun & talk soon,

Cat

Lit-up 4 Santa!...Phase 2

 Hey quilter's...hope your day if off to a great start. I know that I'm hoping for a warm day with no surprises. But who knows in Florida. I've learned to take one "minute" at a time these days. I hope y'all are having fun starting this super sweet Christmas quilt. I've stated in previous posts that it will be a baby quilt and as of now roughly 40 x 40. You can see with design that you can easily enlarge the design to your needs. This is a baby gift  so I'm keeping the size pretty basic, but I love how she can use it as she gets older. That sounds so weird cause she's just a few months old. Time does fly y'all. Anyway, this phase consists of appliqueing your small Christmas lights and snowflakes using the templates by Missouri Star Quilt Co. I'm sure you can make your own designs, but these templates are so much fun to use and a great price as well. Just like with the large Christmas bulbs you'll be doing the same applique technique and accent quilting with coordinating thread. Due to it being a "quilt-a-long" and not fully quilting to the back I did accent snowflakes within the ornaments with Aurifil thread. The same concept as the large Christmas bulbs. Not only are they super cute but it's also a easy way for securing the ornaments as well. This is a fun & easy project so have fun putting your own spin on it! Remember save your scraps because we're going to have a fun year with Quilt-Mas Cheer in 2024 :-) Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note: I made 5 Small Snowflakes & 14 small Christmas lights per my design. But have fun & let your creativity shine! 

Lit-up 4 Santa!...Phase 1

 Hey quilter's...hope all is going well and you're having a great start to a non-hectic week. I guess we can all pray for that especially this time of year. My heart goes out to the tornado victims. I can't even imagine going through a tornado, Hurricanes are enough for me. It does make you realize to make everyday count. I saw a sign on a truck yesterday that really moved me. It stated every day is a chance for a new beginning. Absolutely true. I used to tell my daughter what happened yesterday can't today because we're already aware of it...seems so true to this day. Anway don't mean to ger mushy but cherish today and take the time to bring joy into your lives. Holidays are hectic and I to have to remember I can't do all the things that I would like but that's o.k. too. I'm still here driving everyone nuts :-) Well I hope you're as excited as I am with this sweet Christmas quilt. I stated in previous post of the items needed but what I did not state correctly was my quilt will be only 40 x 40. I uploaded the design from EQ8 and you can see the basic design and you can see how easily it would be to enlarge just by adding more borders or even more rows. It's pretty basic but appliqueing the Christmas bulbs & Snowflakes is what brings the design together with that awesome fabric. I wanted a white background to make the fabric pop, but you can definitely change the design to your preference. I did test the dark fabric just to make sure it didn't run but most of the time buying quality fabric that doesn't happen. Also, i changed one of the "bulbs" to a different location from previous pic...see if you can find it :-) My O.C.D. kicked in...yup...that's me! Anyway, with Phase 1 you will be rotary cutting your white fabric & low-loft batting and appliqueing the large Christmas Lights. I did raw-edge applique with a light fusible web on the large bulbs and then heatnbond lite on the small lights and snowflakes. I will give you a hint....definitely check your layout before fusing to make sure you have all going in your desired direction. Also, when appliqueing use a tiny stitch length for easier pivoting. I purchased a soft blanket for the backing due to only "tack quilting" so please allow enough yardage for your backing as well. Remember this is the first of our "Quilt-Mas Cheer all year in 2024!" I'm excited and I thank y'all so much for following.!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Design is 40 x 40...easily enlarge if desired.

Here's all you do...

* Rotary cut from your white fabrics ( I alternated my two patterns throughout the design)

*  Rotary cut  (14) squares 9 1/2 x 9 1/2 

* Rotary cut ( 4) squares 4 1/2 x 9 1/2

* Low loft batting the same.

* Lay your squares out per design.

Note:...following squares need to be sewn together if following my layout before you applique Christmas Lights. Sew together using a 1/4" seam allowance and right sides 2gether .Press.

Row 1...squares 3 & 4

Row 2...squares 1 & 2...and 4 &5

Row 4...squares 4 & 5

* Rotary cut from your accent fabric (Moda) 6 x 9 1/2 and low loft fusible web. Fuse to wrong side of fabric following manufacturer's directions. Repeat for all 7 large Lights.

* Using the large Christmas Light template from Missouri Star Quilt Co. trace around the teal and turquoise fabrics on the back side of paper.

Tip...if you want to Precisely position the snowflakes like I did then use a erasable marking pen or pencil and trace on the front.

* Cut online with a small pair of scissors for easy maneuvering.

*  Lay out on squares per design or create your own.

* Fuse to right side of squares following manufactures directions.

Tip... I used my t-Shirt pressing cloth from MSQC to protect my iron, Follow manufacturer's directions.

* Lay low loft batting on back side of each square. Pin or clip to secure.

* Applique around each Christmas light with coordinating thread or your preferred method.

Have fun!

Check back soon for Phase 2,

Cat

Lit-up 4 Santa!...Fast n Furious Christmas Quilt!

 Hey quilter's...happy Monday to y'all. I'm sharing a fast n furious "Christmas Scrap-a-long" with y'all. I was recently inspired when I received the Christmas Nesting Templates by Missouri Star Quilt Co. I love these templates and the quality is great. I had also ordered fabrics for another project but when I started looking at the fabrics and seeing the "snowflakes" my design brain went another direction. I love it when fabric inspires your creativity, don't you? I will be making a 40 x 40 baby quilt but you can easily enlarge if needed and have the time. I still can't believe how fast this year went by...and yes the reason why it's called "fast n furious." My time is limited at the machine due to my back and that is why I mostly design small projects now. I decided with this one that I could sew as you go....quilt as you go...curse as you go ...sorry Santa but when you fuse heat n bond lite to your iron it's a bit messy and ...I know no excuses :-) Anyway....I practiced making "snowflakes" with the Charm Pack Challenge and i loved how it gave a spin on the old traditional of "tacking a quilt." Seriously y'all if you are running out of time...like me...tacking with these fun snowflakes is a great time saver. I'm stating a quilt as you go due to I will not be traditionally quilting through the backing of the quilt. I will be accent quilting and raw edge a-play-que on the decorative light bulbs and snowflakes. The "strings" holding all the bulbs together will also be added at the end. Again less-stress-quilting :-) So grab your Christmas fabric & join me on this fun Christmas project. Remember this is the first of many of my 12 months of Quiltmas Cheer all year in 2024! Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you need...

* Nesting Templates of Christmas Light & Snowflake by Missouri Star Quilt Co.

* White Tossed Star fabric by Missouri Star Quilt Co. ( 1 yrd)

* White Snowflakes (Hue) by Timeless Treasurers

* Moda Ombre Fluries Metalic Snowflakes  ( 1/2 yrd, ea) of

Turquoise..Teal...Platinum

* Scraps from Patric lose "Glam" for Northcott Fabrics

* Scraps from Banyan Batiks "Keatan"

* Backing fabric ( I used a soft Christmas throw that I purchased)

* Low loft Batting

* Heat n bond Lite

8 Coordinating thread...I used MSQC white 50# when piecing and Aurifil 50# thread for applique & quilting. ( # 2615, 2800, 

* Pieced and quilted on my Babylock Jazz 11 and my Janome!

Note...Pics below for inspiration....the Quilt-mas fun begins tomorrow!

Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge....cont.

 Hey quilter's...thanks for popping back for the continuation of the Holly Jolly Tree Farm Trivet. I wanted the last project of the Charm Pack Challenge to be a "stash buster" and y'all know Chuck was on scrap duty. I shared with him some thoughts that I wanted, and I believe he did a great job :-) The Holly Jolly Tree Farm Trivet is a gift to my daughter Nichole. They have always wanted to tree farm & I always wanted a Bed & Breakfast that would be decorated for Christmas all year. I know a bit much but it's still my dream :-) In the meantime I will just do my Christmas scrap-a-longs all year but I'm hoping this trivet design inspires my daughter to keep following her dreams. She has a wonderful husband, and they encourage each other to achieve their goals & my grandson too. They believe in hard work is a reward and coming from a mom...Gege...words can't explain how proud I am. I hope this charm pack challenge inspired you to make sweet gifts to share with your friends and loved ones. I know it will be on my Christmas bucket list for Next year. Maybe I might make a runner...pillow...who knows but it's fun to get creative and make as many gifts as possible possible. I still can't believe we made 24 gifts from one Charm pack. I love the Holly Jolly collection by Urban Chiks for Moda fabrics. Enhancing all designs with 50# Aurifil thread & 50# thread by Missouri Star Quilt Co. just made this project a breeze. Well keep following for another fun scrap adventure that starts Monday. I'm super excited to share this one!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note...remember just add on more borders if you'd like a larger trivet :-)

Here's all you need for the Holly Jolly Tree Farm Trivet ( 5 1/2" square)

* Holly Jolly charm scraps

* Tree cookie cutter

* heat n bond fusible web or your preferred method for raw edge applique

* White scrap fabric ( I used Quilt Town Stars by Missouri Star Quilt co,)

* Accent thread ( I used red & white 50# Aurifil thread)

* White 50# thread by MSQC ( I pieced square on my Janome)

* cup of coffee :-) :-) :-)

Here's all you do...

* Rotary cut from white scrap fabric 5 1 2 x 5 1/2 square for front.

* Draw a 1/4 " line all around square on front side using your preferred erasable pen. This is your guide when placing trees to stay within the square :-)

( I use one that disappears with the heat of an iron)

* Fuse heatnbond lite to the back of your scraps following manufactures directions. Pre-test scraps to make sure the tree cookie cutter will fit within,

* On the paperside of fusible web...trace the cookie cutter. Carefully cut out and fuse to front side of whte square following manufacturer's directions on fusible web.

Have fun get creative...fussy cut the presents and bows like I did or come up with your own Christmas design. 

* Border/Binding/Quilting...

* From white scrap fabric rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 5 1/2 and sew with right sides together using a 1/4 " seam allowance to the top/bottom of square.

* From white scrap fabric rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 8 and sew to left/right sides of square using same method as above. Press & square up.

* Rotary cut low-loft batting to 5 1/2" square and place behind square...pin or clip as desired. 

* Applique or quilt as desired. I did fun accent stars in red and straight line stitching in a small stitch length for easy pivoting around trees...bows etc. Do the same if you wish.

Rotary cut white accent backing fabric & insulbright to 5 1/2" square.

Layer backing right side facing down

* Insulbright then batting if you didn't quilt in previous step

* Then square right side up (facing you)

* Finish the trivet using the same method as coaster/trivet in previous post. 

Well, you did it! You made another sweet gift for the Holiday's. Remember these designs are so easy to incorporate for any season throughout the year...just change the fabric per decor :-)

Talk soon,

Cat

Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge...Christmas @ the Cabin & Holly Jolly Tree Farm!

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all are having a great week. I can't believe it's Friday...seriously, this week flew by! I love it when I'm thinking all day long that it's Wednesday & it's actually Thursday. So, you're probably when I'm combining 3 gifts. Well, there you go. I decided to combine because these gifts are super easy to make, and it might inspire you to make a few over the weekend. I'm all about sweet but easy homemade gifts for the Holiday's. I had a sweet conversation yesterday with a neighbor and we both agreed these small gifts such as a coaster or trivet are gifts 2 remember all year. We all drink some sort of a hot beverage and every time they use it fond memories of you will be in their hearts. You don't have to tell them how easy they were to make :-) The designs are very versatile...easily enlarge by adding on more borders and change the fabric for any season. You know me...1 design...sew many ways! Plus, as you can see in pics, I did some fun accent stitching. I love a small project. It really gives me the chance to have fun and try some new applique stitches that I normally don't use. I hope you enjoyed this Charm Pack Challenge with me and please keep following for a very exciting gift that starts Monday on blog. Well, here's a hint...remember my previous post with all those adorable Christmas Templates by Missouri Star Quilt Co.? Yes...we are going to have a blast so keep those Christmas scraps out :-)

Recap on how many gifts we made from One Holly Jolly Charm Pack by Urban Chiks for Moda...

8 Santa Gift Card Bags...5 Mug Mats...2 sm Trivets & 4 med. Trivets & 5 Dog Treat Stockings...y'all that's 24 gifts!!! I think this might me my new Christmas Challenge every year! :-)

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note: for the Mug Mat & Trivet you will need same supplies. Just like in previous designs.

No waste & saving money :-) For the Tree Farm Trivet you will need Heat n Bond light or your favorite application for raw edge applique. 

Christmas @ the Cabin Mug Mat or small Trivet (5" square)

Here's all you do...

* Fussy Cut one Poinsettia Charm Square to  3" square (save scraps)

* Rotary cut 2 strips 1 x 3 of accent fabric.

* Sew with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance to top/bottom of square. Press.

* Rotary cut 2 strips 1 x 3 1/2 sew to left/right side of square using same method.

* Press & square up if needed (square will be 4 x 4 :-)

* Rotary Cut from one Stripe Charm square...2 strips 1 x 4 and sew to top/bottom of square using same sewing method as above.

* Rotary cut 2 stripe strips 1 x 4 3/4 and sew to left/right side of square using same sewing method.

* Press & square up if needed....roughly 4 3/4 x 4 3/4 square

Border/Binding/Quilting...

* From White accent fabric ( I used Quilt Town Stars by MSQC) Rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 4 3/4 and sew to top/bottom of square using same sewing method as above.

* Rotary cut 2 white strips 1 3/4 x 7 1/4 and sew to left/right side using same sewing method.

* Press & square up if needed.

Note: due to using "insulbright" for hot/cold protection this is where you can do some fun accent quilting without the extra bulk of the insulbright. Just add your low loft batting & rotary cut to approximately 4 1 /2 square. 

I did fun accent quilting with red & white 50# Aurifil thread.

* Rotary cut backing & Insulbright to 4 1/2 x 4 1/2

* Layer...backing right side down

* Insulbright & batting if you haven't already used when quilting.

* Then square (right side up-facing you)

Border/binding technique...(used for all 3 items)

* Starting at top...fold over border leaving a 1/4" seam on front.

* On back fold border in half again to make a finished fold.

* Pin or clip 2 secure.

* On Front...top stitch in seam line (the ditch) to secure binding fold on back. No worries if parts don't catch...touch up with washable fabric glue :-)

* Repeat same method with bottom border then left/right border

Note: after I secured all sides I then went back and did some "crazy accent" stitching with white Aurifil thread. Do the same if you wish.

I hope you enjoyed making this super fun & easy project. Plus, what a scrap buster too :-)

Christmas @ the Cabin Trivet (5 1/2)

* Fussy cut Poinsettia to 3 1/2 x 3 1/2 square.

Note: the more "scrap strips" of different fabrics you use enhances the log cabin design.

* Rotary cut 1 border....1 x 3 1/2 and sew to top of square with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* Rotary cut 2nd border...1 x 4 1/2...sew to right side of square using same method as above.

* Rotary cut 3rd border...1 x 4 1/2...sew to bottom of square using same method as above.

* Rotary cut 4th border...1 x 4 1/2 sew to left side of square using same method as above.

Press & square up if needed ( 4 1/2 x 4 1/2)

Borders w/ corner squares... 

* Rotary cut 4 squares 1 x 1 from different scrap pieces.

* Rotary cut 4 strips from different accent fabrics 1 x 4 1/2

* Sew 2 squares to one strip at each end (per design) and sew with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance...press set aside.

* Repeat for same method for bottom border.

* Rotary cut 2 strips 1 x 4 1/2 and sew to left right side of square. Press.

* Now lay your 2 corner squares to top/bottom of center square.

* Sew top row to center square with right sides 2gether using a 1 /4" seam allowance. 

* Sew bottom row to square using same method. Press & square up if needed.

Border/Binding/Quilting...use same sewing method as previously stated in mug mat/sm trivet.

* From white accent fabric rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 5 1/2 and sew to top/bottom of square. Press.

* From white accent fabric rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 8 and sew to left/right sides of squares.

Quilt as desired or finish with same technique as the mug mat trivet technique.

I love this design. It brought back many memories of our Colorado Cabin Trips plus this was the very first block I taught myself. A log cabin hold dear to my heart :-)

Thanks for following and I'll post the Tree Farm on next post...this was a bit lengthy :-)

Talk Soon,

Cat

 

"Chuck & Jazz...BFF's 4ever!"

 Hey quilter's...hope your day is off to a great start. I had to share my sweet morning, Suprise. The weather "dipped" into the mid 50's last night in Florida & I will admit it was a bit of a shocker. But when I saw these 2 I had to take a quick pic. I did startle them a bit but needless to say they are still snuggled in these adorable sleeping bags. Jazz came with a note that she "Sews and quilts" but seriously she is amazing. She made these sleeping bags from my stash of Christmas Magic collection by Patrick Lose for Northcott Fabrics & Santa Paws by Doborah Edwards for Northcott Fabrics. What is so stinkin adorable is she left an opening for "Chucks tail." Oh, my word...Jazz is the best! Well as usual I could find no instructions to share so I'm going to have to wing this one too. I know she pieced and quilted with my Missouri Quilt co. 50# thread because she left a bit of a thread mess behind. I can see she did a basic grid pattern when quilting hers which is clever on a time crunch. Plus, it looks like this is her "signature design" on her previous sleeping bags. Again, clever because it's fast but super cute. But Chucks is a bit smaller, and I carefully measured to not wake him. His is roughly 5" wide x 5 1/2 long. So we all know by now to add your 1/4" seam allowance when rotary cutting. Chucks is not quilted just pieced which is perfectly fine. Jazz must have ran out of time or seen Chuck shivering so she hurried up. :-) I just love how "Jazz" coordinated their fabrics. I do believe they are going to be Best Friends 4ever! I love waking up to see what these 2 have been doing all night long. Thanks for following and I'll keep you posted on their journey 2gether!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note...see previous post for sleeping bag instructions :-)

Elf Sleeping Bags by Jazz!

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all are enjoying this Holiday season. It's been a bit hectic here, but I guess that's part of the fun...haha....I woke up to my "Christmas 2do List" with 2 items scratched off. I couldn't believe my eyes. I had a special request for 2 sleeping bags to be sent to Texas. The weather has been a bit crazy so 2 special elves wanted warmth. Oh my gosh and what better way than to be wrapped up in a cozy sleeping bag from Northcott Fabrics. I love how "Jazz" used my scraps. I've been trying to figure out her "Elf Scratch" to share this pattern with y'all. I do love how she loves to take "elfies" of herself. :-) I was thinking these would be great if you have a loved one that plays with "Barbies." I would have loved one playing with my barbies as a child. Well...wish me luck to try and figure this one out. I think I'll leave my "Christmas 2do List" out...who knows what else she might make for me. I sure do wish she could stay all year. I know 'Chuck" is loving her help as well. Thank y'all for following. Remember to save those scraps for a fun "Quilt-Mas cheer all year in 20241" :-)

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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* It looks like Jazz rotary cut 2" squares from scraps and made rows alternating the red/green squares.

3 rows across and 6 rows down....clever!

* I can see they have a 1/2 border around so I'm assuming you would rotary cut 1 strips to allow for a 1/4" seam when sewing...right?

* Then it looks like she sewed the borders to the top/bottom then left and right side...hmm...similar to how we all do a quick and easy border...she's smart! I'm not seeing exact sizes so just rotary cut yours to the sizes needed and don't forget to square up.

* Hmm...this is where I believe she did some accent quilting with my Missouri Quilt Co 50# thread. Smart! It feels like she used "low loft" batting...smart!

* Then she must have used coordinating fabric for the lining. I love it!

* I'm assuming she did the old right sides 2gehter and sewed a 1/4" seam around while leaving a opening for turning right side out. 

* Then she must have rotary cut 2 more coordinating pieces for the back side of quilt to the size of her top piece. Most likely sewed them the same way but it doesn't look like she quilted the back. She must have been in a hurry to get this project finished for me! :-)

Note...I will admit the second one looks easier...she most likely was on a time crunch. All I can see is rotary cut 4 pieces of fabrics all to 5 1/2 x 10. I'm assuming the batting as well. It does appear she did sew them all the same way. 

She must have placed the two finished pieces 2gther then top stitched them to secure. It also looks like she left as opening on the side for them to get in/out easier. She's a clever Elf!!

I will say from my own experience that when you are laying your cut pieces 2gether is to lay your batting first then backing facing up (you) then front piece facing down..."right sides 2gether" This makes the batting be in the middle once you've turned them right side out. 

Well, I hope this helps. These are the sweetest Elf sleeping bags and a great "Scrap-Buster." :-)

Talk soon,

Cat

Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge..."Dog Treat Stockings"

 Hey quilter's...hope your day is going great. I was watching the national weather this morn and loving all the pics of the snow. It's so pretty this time of year. I wanted to share a quick post of what I woke up too this morning. I guess Chuck and Jazz had a great time making super small stockings out of the scraps for the dog treats. We have a Christmas Parade and I love passing out treats to the dogs that ride in the golf carts. I seriously think they have more fun than we do. Some get dressed up like their owners and some just say "hey I'm cute just the way I am." I know y'all know what I'm talking about...some dogs just know they are stinkin handsome. My cat is the same way :-) Anyway, they totally "Jazz'd" it up for this year's parade. Last year my step-grandson helped me put the "Pup-peroni" treats in a cute Christmas bag but this year they will be in stockings. Oh my gosh...they did a great job, and you can see by the pic that "Chuck" like them too. I'll try to see if I can get the directions from them for y'all. I can definitely say..."what a great way to use up those tiny scraps!" No waste with this fun charm pack by Urban Chiks for Moda Fabrics....Love it!!! Thanks for following and check back for more great holiday gift giving and don't forget to save those scraps for this coming year. Talk soon!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Aren't they the cutiest!!!

Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge..."Peppermint Bark Coasters"

 Hey quilter's...Sunday blessings to y'all & hope the weather is being kind to you. I love the snow but snow but have to admit I'm happy we're having warm days again in Florida. Although snow days make great "quilt days" :-) Lately I've realized no matter what the weather is outside I'm going to sew/quilt even if it's for a few minutes. I preach "thread and fabric therapy" for a great reason. I truly believe if you can take your mind off your pain even for a few minutes it's very therapeutic. One reason I decided to focus on "Quilt-mas Cheer all Year" in 2024. Christmas brings me joy and Christmas fabric is the best for me anyway. Just looking at all the beautiful color ways and prints is therapeutic and inspirational. Then incorporating the fabric into a design is so rewarding. Just remember to take a few minutes for you every day in some form or fashion. If you've noticed my projects are small and simple but you can totally enlarge the design to your abilities. The coasters today are designed with two skill levels in mind. We all know the classic pinwheel square, but the star coaster looks intimidating but super easy. The techniques are easy to follow that you'll end up using the technique within other projects. I love a technique that looks like it's difficult...don't you? :-) Plus, did you notice the candy. I named the squares after my favorite candy. I think "Chuck" likes them too :-) Don't know about you but if you need an afternoon "pick me up" just drop a piece into your afternoon coffee or hot cocoa. Yes...you can thank me later :-) Plus you'll get your projects finished and right now we all need a little help. Seriously y'all 21 more days...where has this year gone! So, I better get on the instructions so we can get our Christmas gifts finished. Thanks so much for following!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you need...

* Candy Cane sq's from Holly Jolly charm pack...scraps of the peppermint stripe & white fabric scraps for binding & backing ( I used the stars of Quilt Town from Missouri Star Quilt Co.)

* Coordinating thread ( I used white 50# from Missouri Star Quilt Co on these)

* Low loft batting

* Insulbright

Note:...Peppermint Bark Pinwheel Coaster (finishes roughly 4 3/4 sq.) easily enlarge if desired by adding on more boarders :-)

Here's all you do...

* From one white candy cane square...rotary cut a 2" strip then sub cut into two 2 x 2" squares.

* Repeat from one pink candy cane square or scraps same as above.

* Place one pink square and one white square with right sides 2gether.

* Draw a diagonal line from corner 2 corner

* Sew a 1/8 th seam allowance on each side of line.

* Rotary cut on diagonal line and press seams toward pink. Carefully trim away "dog ears" :-)

* Repeat same method for all 4 Half Square Triangles

* Layout squares to form the pinwheel design.

* Sew top 2 squares with right sides 2gether using a 1/8" seam allowance. Press

* Repeat same method for bottom 2 squares.

* Sew rows 2gether at center with right sides 2gether using a 1/8" seam allowance. Press & square up if needed.

* Pinwheel center is 3 x 3

Accent Border...

* From Holly Jolly white candy cane scraps...rotary cut 2 strips 1 x 3 and sew to top/bottom of square with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* From Holly Jolly stripe scraps...rotary cut 2 strips 1 x 4 1/2 and sew to left/right side of square using the same method as above.

Note: this is where you would rotary cut batting to square and quilt as desired or follow next step; I only quilted in the ditch at finishing stage but do as you wish. Its small....have fun :-)

Border/Binding/Quilting...

* From white scraps ( I used white stars from Quilt Town by MSQC) for border/backing.

* Rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 4 1/2...sew to top/bottom of block with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* Rotary cut 2 strips 1 3/4 x 6 3/4...sew to left/right side of block using same method as above.

* Rotary cut backing & low-loft batting & insulbright 4 1/2 x 4 1/2.

* Place backing right side down

* Then batting/insulbright

*Block right side up (facing you)

* Starting at top...Fold binding to back of block leaving a 1/4" border on front.

* Fold in half again on back to close fold on back.

* Pin or clip

* Top stitch on front of block to secure fold on back. 

Repeat same steps for bottom border then left and right sides.

Note: if parts of seams don't totally catch on back just secure with washable fabric glue.

Well, you just finished the sweetest Peppermint Pinwheel Coaster. Your recipient will love it or keep it for yourself and make more :-)

 Remember all designs can be incorporated throughout the year just by changing the fabric per decor! #less-stress-quilting!

Peppermint Bark Star Coaster...

Note: I used 4 charm squares but not all was used so save those scraps! ;-)

* From pink bow charm square rotary cut strip 1 1/2 x 5 then sub cut into two  1 1/2 x 1 1/2 sqs.

* Repeat same method with white candy cane square.

* Per design lay squares then sew top 2 squares with right sides together using a 1/4" seam allowance.

Press

* Repeat same method with bottom 2 squares.

* Sew top row to bottom row with right sides 2gehter using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press and square up if needed. Equals a 2 1.2 center square.

* From stripe charm square...rotary cut strip 1 1/2 x 5 then sub cut into two 1 1/2 x 2 1/2 stips.

* Repeat to make 4 strips total.

* From white candy cane fabric rotary cut four 1 1 /2 x 1 1/2 squares.

* Repeat same method from pink candy cane fabric.

* Place white candy cane square on stripe fabric with right sides 2gether (at corner)...

* Draw a diagonal line on square and sew a seam on that line.

* Press & carefully cut away extra fabric on back.

* On opposite corner of stripe fabric repeat same method as above with pink candy cane square.

* Repeat steps to make all 4 sides.

Tip...Layout per design to make sure your corners are facing right direction :-)

Corners...

* Rotary cut from white candy cane fabric two squares 1 1/2 x 1 1/2

* Repeat same method from pink candy cane fabric.

* Place in corners per design.

* Per design...sew row 1 squares with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* Then center squares using same method

* And bottom squares using same method.

* Sew row 1 to middle row with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* Then middle row to bottom row carefully matching seams. Press & square up if needed.

Border/Binding/Quilting...

Note:...you will be doing the same method as previous Peppermint Pinwheel Coaster but using the following strips for borders...backing ...batting & insulbright...except I sewed borders on using a 1/8 seam allowance being careful at matching points. This gave me a little cushion to have better points on star. Do the same if you wish :-)

* Rotary cut from white scrap fabric 2 strips 1 3/4 x 4 3/4 for top/bottom

* Rotary cut from white scrap fabric 2 strips 1 3/4 x 7 1/2

* Rotary cut 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 squares from backing/bating & insulbright

Well...I hope you enjoyed making these coasters for gifts and maybe even challenged yourself with the star block. I know it's one of my favorite designs and definitely will be used throughout the year with my Quilt-Mas Cheer all year in 2024. Remember save those scraps!

Talk soon,

Cat

Cats Christmas Suprise..."An Elf that Sews & Quilts!"

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all are having a great weekend of stitching and quilting or whatever your heart desires. This time of year can be a bit hectic and I for one have been a bit "stressful" so to speak. I love to make gifts for loved ones, but it does stink when my back doesn't cooperate with me. But I had a wonderful Suprise yesterday. I woke up to this sweet Elf by my sewing machine with a note stating she sews and quilts. Oh my gosh....if I could move better, I would have been doing a happy dance. Plus, the mug I've been wanting from Missouri Quilt Co. that states "quilters are peacemakers." I thought how  could this be. Well....much to my surprise 'Chuck" wrote a letter to Santa asking for help. I guess I've been stressing him out on scrap duty. I can't help it I absolutely love the Holly Jolly charm pack by urban Chiks for Moda fabrics. I can't waste a bit of that fabric. Plus, it's all about how many gifts we can make from one charm pack for my "Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge." Y'all seriously look in the pic and see what she brought with her...a sleeping bag made from Quilt Town Fabrics for Missouri Star Quilt Co. Oh my gosh...I love her! I asked "Chuck" to name her since he requested help. Well, it didn't take long for him to come up with the name "Jazz" after my BabyLock sewing machine. I mean after all she sews and quilts...right? :-) I can't thank Chuck enough well and Santa because we have a lot more gifts to make. We'll be sharing more gifts soon for my charm pack challenge. I'm sew thankful for the extra pair of hands! Remember y'all...we'll be having a year full of Quilt-Mas Cheer so save those scraps! Thanks so much for following and stay tuned :-)

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Isn't Jazz adorable!!!!

Hmm...maybe I did stress Chuck out a bit...

"Tis the Season 4 Templates!"

 Hey quilter's...hope all is great. I wanted to share some Nesting templates from Missouri Star Quilt Co. that I recently received. I'm sure by now you know how much I love Missouri Star....the quality and customer service of their company is wonderful. I wanted to give y'all a "sneak peek" of what's to come in 2024. I'll be sharing "Quilt-Mas Cheer all Year!." Yes...I'll be incorporating these sweet templates into Christmas scrap-a-longs. Plus, this gives you the time to purchase from them if you haven't already. I have a lot of Missouri Star Quilt Co. templates. I love the quality of their templates and have to say these are adorable and functional. Oh, my goodness...nesting is super smart. I love having an accent template when designing. So, heads up y'all...don't put those Christmas scraps away! I'm super excited and as you can see by pick below that Chuck is too! :-) Tomorrow is Dec 1st. and don't know about you but I wish somehow that I could gain an extra pair of hands. I think I'm driving "Chuck" nuts with my Christmas Charm Pack Challenge. But he's doing a fine job piecing those little scraps while I'm on quilting duty. :-) Well as usual...I'm still making gifts, but they are small this year due to my back issues. But that's o.k. too...they still are cute and made with love and maybe a extra word or two that we won't discuss #oops! I wish y'all all the time you need to get your gifts complete! 

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Cats Charm Pack Challenge..."Candy Cane Christmas Coaster!"

 Hey quilter's...hope your week is off to a great start. I know coming off a holiday break is hard to get going again especially with the kiddos. I do have to share a funny "Thanksgiving moment" with y'all & a true confession. I for one do not mind buying a pie. Especially if I'm not having company. Well...true confession...I make pumpkin bread a lot throughout the year. It's one of my fav's! Recently I was shopping in one of my favorite grocery stores before Thanksgiving and they do have a great bakery and pecan pies. So yes, I went for it...I bought the pecan pie with no regrets :-) Well this sweet couple was near me and all I heard was "No... absolutely not!" It immediately captured my attention. :-) They we're near me in a few isles as we both shopped, and I kept hearing him saying the same thing and then the old hand wave went up. but here's the funny....he kept telling her she's always doing too much...stressed out and he just wanted her to take it a bit easy and buy a pie. It was the sweatiest thing hearing them. Yes, I was ease dropping by then. Sorry it was cracking me up! Well, he looked at me and said are they good. I acted like I didn't know what he was talking about.... seriously I crack me up sometimes. He goes the pies...are they good? Yes, y'all can just imagine the 'look" I was getting from his wife. So, I thought this could go down 2 ways...so I decided to play it cool and say..."Yes, they are d'lish but nothing beats the love of a homemade pie" She goes see!!!! Well, he pouted a but then said, "I'm just trying to help." Holly smokes I avoided him the rest of the store :-) Then....oh my gosh another lady decided to tell me her Thanksgiving traditions when I was getting "cool whip." I first thought..."do I know you?" Then I decided to listen because that will be me in a few more years...having conversations with strangers in the grocery stores. Well like I say...don't get old cause it's a trap! By the time I got home I was exhausted as I usually am but mentally as well. I'm sure we all stress out more than we need to for the holidays, but I've slacked a bit as I've gotten older due to my health. Unless the kiddos are coming. That's a whole different story and all I can say is thank God for pain meds :-) Then you are really creative and having a Holly Jolly Christmas. Just kidding! :-) Speaking of Holly Jolly. The Candy Cane Christmas Coaster or trivet or quilt square...so many quilt-a-bilities with these squares. But I am trying to make many gifts as possible from one Christmas charm pack so the instructions below are for a coaster "mug mat" :-) I love to make a gift that someone can use and remember how special they are to me while doing so. Plus who wouldn't like a Christmas coaster for the Holidays? :-) I do thank y'all for following a long and wish everyone a 'safe" shopping season as well. Remember we're having "Quilt-Mas Cheer all Year in 2024" hint...hint. Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right of blog)

Note...I challenged myself with the white accent fabric border. I used scrap pieces of the white candy cane fabric & love how it accents the peppermint fabric. Do the same if you wish or just rotary cut your borders accordingly. I challenge myself on small projects :-) 

Finish size is 4 3/4 x 4 3/4....easily enlarge if desired.

Here's all you need...

* 2 of your favorite charm squares ( I used one red and pink candy cane 5" square)

* Scraps from white candy cane fabric

* White accent fabric scraps ( I used Quilt Town stars by Missouri Star Quilt Co)

* Coordinating thread 

* Insulbrght...batting...backing (sizes will be listed on directions)

Here's all you do...

* From 1 red candy cane 5" square...rotary cut a 2.5 x 5 strip.

* Subcut strip into 2 2.5 x 2.5 squares.

* Repeat for pink candy cane fabric.

* Place one red square and one pink square with right sides 2gether.

* Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner. 

Tip...I draw on light fabric to see line better :-) see pic

* Sew a 1/4" seam on both sides of diagonal line.

* Rotary cut on diagonal line & press. Trim away "dog ears"

Equals 2 peppermint half-square triangles.

* Now place 2 half-square triangles with right sides together & opposite colors.

* Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner.

* Sew as precious HST & press. Square up if needed. 

* Repeat steps to equal 4 squares. (Chuck did a great job squaring up!)

* Lay squares in opposite directions to form center pinwheel (see original design if needed)

* With right sides 2gether and a 1/4" seam allowance...sew top 2 squares 2gether then bottom 2 squares together. Press.

* Follow design sew top row to bottom row. Press & square up if needed.

Note:  Center pinwheel will be 3 x3

Advanced white 1/4" accent border....

* Rotary cut from white candy cane fabric 3/4" strips x width of center square and sew using a 1/4" seam allowance starting at top/bottom then left right side...pressing as you do. Square up if needed.

Peppermint Border...

* Rotary cut from pink peppermint scraps 2 strips... 1 x 3 3/4.

* Sew with right sides together using a 1/4" seam allowance to top/bottom of center square.

* Rotary cut from red candy cane scraps 2 strips...1 x 4 1/2 .

* Sew to left/right side of square using same method as above.

* Press 7 square up if needed.

Border/Binding/Quilting...

Note...I used the scraps of white star fabric from Quilt Town collection by Missouri Star Quilt Co. I love this fabric...so versatile for any season :-)

* Rotary cut from white fabric 2 strips...1 3/4 x 4 1/2.

* Sew to top/bottom of square with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance.

* Rotary cut from white scrap fabric 2 strips...1 3/4 x 7.

* Sew using same method as above.

* Rotary cut low loft batting 4.5 x 4.5. Place within center square. Pin and quilt as desired.

* Rotary cut backing fabric & insulbright 4.5 x 4.5

* Place white backing fabric (right side facing down)

* Batting if didn't quilt in previous step

* Insulbright

* Then Candy Cane square right side facing up (you)

* Carefully turn block over and fold over border at top to the back side leaving a 1/4" seam on front.

* Fold in half again of back to secure seam.

* Pin or clip to secure.

* Top stitch on front to secure fold in back.

* No worries if not all of seam "caught" on back...I use washable fabric glue when needed.

* Repeat for bottom border...then left/right border.

* This will give you the 1/4" binding around block without the stress...#less-stress-quilting!

Note:...If you desire a wider fold on back then just rotary cute the width of your strip to desired size. sometimes you don't have to struggle so much with catching the back fold when you make strips wider. As I always say...do what's easier for you. We're all at different sewing/quilting levels and trust me..."I have better days then others" :-) 

I hope you enjoyed this Christmas project & keep following for many more!

Talk soon,

Cat & Chuck :-) he's been a huge help!

"Holly Jolly Christmas Present...Coaster or Trivet!"

 Hey y'all...hope y'all are having a great week. I can't believe it's already Thanksgiving week & we all know what's right around the corner. Oh my gosh...this year has really flown. We've had a crazy week in Florida with storms last week and no internet until yesterday. You really don't realize how much you or me anyway depend on the internet until it's down. Sometimes I just wish it would be nice to go back to the old rotary phone. I know some of y'all might need to "google" that :-) Then when it's down I'm thinking how much I do love technology. It sure has come a long way! Well on the internet "note" ...I'll be posting the gifts that "Chuck" and I have made for the Christmas Charm Pack Challenge. We've had a blast coming up with small thoughtful gifts. I'm in love with the Holly Jolly charm pack by UrbanChiks for Moda fabrics. Every square just screams Christmas and have to say it's still available on the internet ;-) I did notice they have a new line that I just might need for my Christmas cheer all year in 2024. Hint,,,hint :-) Anyway, going to make this a fast post. I was told yesterday we could be down again due to lines being repaired. So, if y'all don't see a post for a few days that's why. I'll be combining the directions for the Coaster and Trivet due to the instructions are basically the same to make it a bit easier. I love this present design. You can give a "gift" that your loved one will keep on using every year. I did use scraps for the back of the white star of Quilt Town fabrics from Missouri Star Quilt Co. Love this fabric. Perfect for any season!  Well, I hope you get a chance to relax a bit this week and enjoy some time off with your loved ones. 

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Holly Jolly Christmas Present Coaster.

Here's all you need...

* 2 Holly Jolly Charm Squares

* White scraps for border & backing ( sizes in directions)

* Batting (light-weight)

* Insul-bright

* Coordinating thread ( I used Aurifil & Missouri Quilt Co thread both 50#)

Tip;...always save your scraps...I put the little ones in a Ziplock bag :-)

Here's all you do for Coaster...

* Rotary cut one charm square in half down center ( I used green) makes 2...2.5 x 5 strips.

* Sub cut 2 strips to 2.5 x 3.5

* Rotary cut one accent charm square to 1.5 x 3.5

* Sew strips together per design with right sides together & a 1/4" seam allowance. Press

Bow...

* Rotary cut from pink holly & white holly a 2 x 2" square

* Place one pink square and one right square with right sides together.

* Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner. 

Pic is of the trivet bow but same concept :-)

* Sew a 1/4" seam allowance on each side of line. Press if needed.

* Rotary cut on line.  Press. 

* Per design...Sew each half square triangle with right sides together & 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

* Rotary cut 2 accent corners from white holly fabric.

* Per design...sew a square to each side to center bow. Press.

* Sew top row to center square with right sides together & 1/4" seam allowance. Press.

Block will be 4.5 x 4.5 ish...scraps stretch a bit.

Border...Binding & Quilting...

* Rotary cut from white scraps 2 strips 1 3/4 x 4.5

* Sew to top/bottom of block with right sides together using a 1/4 " seam allowance. Press.

* Rotary cut from white scraps 2 strips 1 3/4 x 6

* Sew to left & right side of block as above. Press & square up if needed.

Note...this is where I do accent quilting. Rotary cut batting to 4 1/4 x 4 1/4.

* Lay batting then block. Clip or pin to secure...Quilt as desired. Have fun,,,it's a small project :-)

* Rotary cut Insulbright & backing to 4 1/4 x 4 1/4

* Layer backing right side down

* Insulbright

* Then block facing up

Finishing...

* Starting at top...fold over border strip to back leaving a 1/4" seam on front. Finger Press.

* Turn block over to back & fold border strip in half again to secure fold. Pin or clip to secure.

*Repeat same steps for bottom border.

* Top stitch on front of block to secure fold on back side.

* Repeat same steps for left/right border.

Note...with this method you have achieved a binding around your block without the stress :-)

Tip...you can always make your border strips larger to make folding on the back easier. Plus, if you don't catch the seam perfectly on back don't worry.... washable fabric glue is your best friend. Just secure areas with glue :-)

I hope you enjoyed this fun project & keep following to make the trivet. These are so much fun and great gift ideas! Here's a hint...the block design will be used for a Christmas Scrap-a-long in 2024 :-)

Holly Jolly Christmas Trivet...

The directions are the same as coaster but please rotary cut to sizes below.

* Rotary cut one charm poinsettia square in half down center

* Rotary cut from scrap 1 1/2 x 5 for accent center.

Sew as per directions of coaster.

Bow...

* Rotary cut from light scrap & one dark scrap piece 2.5 x 2.5

* Per coaster instructions make 2 half square triangles & sew together using same method.

* Rotary cut from light fabric 2 squares 1.5 x 2

* Sew using same methods as coaster.

Border/Binding/Quilting...

* Rotary cut from white accent fabric 2 strips 1 3/4 x 5 1/4....sew to top/bottom of using same method as coaster.

* Rotary cut from white accent fabric 2 strips 1 3/4 x 8 1/4....sew to left/right side of block using same method. 

Note...as per coaster instructions this is where I did my accent quilting.

* Rotary cut from batting 5 1/4 x 6 1/4.

* Lay batting then block, right side up.  Pin or clip. Quilt as desired.

Finishing...

* Rotary cut backing & insulbright to 5 1/4 x 6 1/4

* Finish using same methods as coaster.

Note...I made 1 coaster and 2 trivets with this method. Keep following for more fun gifts using the Holly Jolly Charm Pack.

Talk soon, 

Cat

Cats Christmas Charm Pack Challenge! ..."Gift Card Santa Bags"

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all had a restful weekend and ready to "kick off" the charm pack challenge. I'm so excited about these fast & easy "Santa Bags" that I'm not going straight to the directions. What! No griping about the weather...or 3 doc appoints and therapy? No... right to these super cute bags :-) Seriously these bags were so much fun to make that I will probably make more from my scraps. I used 2...5" squares per bag with no waste. Yes...I've been sewing for over 50 ish years & can honestly say this is the first project that I used all the squares. But...will admit the other projects coming will state "save your scraps" :-) This adorable "Holly Jolly" charm pack by Urban Chiks for Moda fabrics inspired many fun gifts to come. First let me tell you the story of how these bags came about. Our sweet grandson Davin now 13 and step-grandson Noah now 11 love receiving money to pick out their own gifts. I know...as a "Gege" I was a bit devastated. I always think of everyone's gifts throughout the year.... try to catch things on sale to save money. Well last Christmas Davin asked for a gift certificate from a sports store to get a bat. He knew it was expensive and said he needed all the help he could get. Well then birthdays came and special moments to celebrate so I started sending the "gc's." They both love to receive McDonalds cards. Well like everyone else the adults love a Starbucks...you know every now and then...ha! I could just buy a gift bag or card or all those expensive items that hold a "gc" but that adds up as well. So, I decided to incorporate a cute "Santa bag" into the charm pack challenge.  I will admit it was more of a challenge to use all the squares and to make a bag that was long enough to hold a gift card. Yes, you can use scraps and probably make a bit simpler, but I love how the bags are reversed. Each individual bag uses 2 squares and what you see on the front is reversed on the back. Yes, that did take a bit of "thinking" on my end. When you're on pain meds math is not something I'm fond of :-) But thank God for my EQ8 quilt software. It figures that math for you, No project to small :-) Oh forgot to mention I've only used "16" of the charm squares so far and made "8" gifts. I have more gifts to share so keep following. Remember if you don't have a Christmas Charm pack just rotary cut your Christmas scraps into 5 x 5" squares. I will admit these would make great birthday gifts...just change the fabric per your celebration. I thank y'all for following and hope you enjoy making these super cute & easy Santa bags. Talk soon!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note...each bag 3 x 4.5 & I used Aurifil thread 50 weight & Missouri Star Quilt Co. 50#. I "bopped" between 2 sewing machines depending on how my back was doing :-( Every bag was "Chuck" approved! :-) Remember keep doing what you love...just in moderation....thread & fabric therapy!

Here's all you need...

* 2 ..5" Charm Squares

* Coordinating thread...I used white to keep it simple.

* Please rotary cut for this project :-)

Here's all you do...

* Rotary cut 2 coordinating charm squares 3.5 x 5"

* From each scrap strip...rotary cut to 1.5 x 3.5 (this is your band at top)

* Place one 3.5" piece with a coordinating 1.5 x 3.5 strip at top (per pic)

* Sew top band to sack with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press

*Rotary cut one inch off bottom of sack.

* Sew to top of band with right sides 2gether...1/8" seam...Press then fold over to the wrong side on seam line. Repeat for each side of Santa sack. "see pic"

 

* Cut 2 pieces of twine or ribbon 14"

* On wrong side of bag at fold place twine at top of fold...secure with pin.

* Now top stitch on right side to make a seam that secures the twine but being careful to not sew into the twine. 

* Repeat for each side of bag. (see pic)

* Place each piece...right sides 2gether...starting at right corner (below twine seam line) sew around sack using a 1/4" seam allowance...pivoting at corners & reinforce your stitches at start/stopping point.

This will secure your seam line when "drawing twine to close" 

* Turn Santa sac right side out & press if needed. 

* Place your gift card within sac & draw close using twine. 

* Make a gift tag to tie on & hang on Christmas tree if desired.

A gift that keeps on giving! Save bag & use again :-)

Have fun making as many as you need & keep following for more gifts!

Talk soon,

Cat