Cats Tip of the Day!..."New Year 2 try New Blocks"

 Hey quilter's...hope everyone is well and staying warm. It's finally Friday and hoping y'all have great plans for the weekend that includes sewing. I'm geared up for Valentines & Christmas too. Sounds crazy but this fun & easy pattern "HEARTS AND KISSES" by Missouri Star Quilt Co. really warms by heart. I'm having a blast with their fun techniques that I'm making a Christmas Baby quilt with the design. Sometimes when we see a pattern, we might think that's a big project for me...or that block looks intimidating. Trust me I get that way too after sewing and quilting all my years. So, I wanted to share this tip with y'all that I find is very helpful. I love to see a pattern and make a "test block" using my scraps. It gives me the feel of how the pattern is constructed plus I'm using up my scraps. Win...win :-) Also it may inspire you to make the design your own like I'm currently doing. I love the patterns by MSQC. They have unique techniques that will take the "fear" out of any block. Plus, along with their patterns you will usually find a great tutorial to follow and in the back of the pamphlet you'll see a bonus pattern too. Oh, speaking of MSQC...we all know I love to share the 15% discount with you. Well now you can have fun all month long with my affiliate link. It's not just a 1-time discount anymore. Oh, my stars...did I ever have a blast yesterday stocking up on some "necessary items." :-) We have a lot of fun plans 2gether this year and one especially is dear to my heart. Due to the recent passing of my mom-in-law I'll be "quilting her legacy forward" with an adorable and fun design by MSQC. We'll also be "strolling together" with MSQC Summer Strolls B.O.M. and sharing space-saving techniques too. I'll always note in the caption what the post pertains too, so it doesn't get confusing. As always, I thank y'all so much for following. If you click the "follow emblem" in the top left of blog you will automatically have updates on posts. Also, my affiliate link is upper right on blog for your shopping experience. Stay warm & safe y'all!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSQC

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Fabric scraps used...

*White...Tossed Missouri Star by MSQC

* Pink....Glam by Patrick Lose 

* Red....Batiks by Hoffman

* Pink...letters batik by Hoffman

Pieced with Aurifil red and MSQC white (all 50#)

"Hearts and Kisses" or "My Heart belongs to Santa" 1 design...Sew Many Ways!

 Hey quilters...hope your week is off to a great start and staying warm. This crazy weather just makes me want to stay in and sew. The rain has been nuts here, but my Texas family has it worse, so I'll hush :-) I love watching the snow on the news. It's a shame that something so captivating can be dangerous too. I also feel sorry for animals outside. Years ago, in Indiana I couldn't believe how the cows would just stand in the snow instead of under the barn. It's almost like they were enjoying it trickle on their backs. They are tough for sure. My post today might seem a bit early but wanted to give you a "heads up" on the next Scrap-a-long." The pattern "Hearts and Kisses" by Missouri Star Quilt Co. is super easy & fun. I love their patterns they always have a clever technique for their blocks along with a tutorial to help along the way. This design technique is so clever that you will have extra blocks for a "bonus runner if desired. Love that...you already have another gift in the making :-) Well y'all know me by promised "Quilt-mas Cheer all Year" and this super cute design is a great start. I love a pattern that you think only Valentine's but then you can personalize it just by changing the fabric."1 Design...Sew Many Ways!" Mine will be a "baby quilt" size but you can make it larger by following the original pattern instructions. You can use my MSQC link for 15% off (1 x use) for January for supplies. I did the heart and kisses samples in Hoffman batiks & Shimmer by Patrick Lose then complimented with the White Tossed Star by MSQC own Quilt Town fabrics. Y'all either way you choose, you will definitely be surprised of how clever these blocks come together. Thanks so much for following and stay tuned...it's starting this week! 

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat 

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSQC

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"Measure Once Sewing Machine Cover" Phase 3 & Finishing!

 Hey quilters...hope your weekend is going great. My day started with rain but the sun peeked out a bit ago so that makes me smile. I'm excited to share the last phase of this fun design by Tied with a Ribbon. I love a pattern that is so easy to follow that inspires you to make it your own. This pattern is so unique & has easy instructions to trace the designs to make more. I'm sure y'all might make both...wall hanging and sewing machine cover. Right :-) As y'all know I absolutely love "charm packs." Not only are they budget-friendly w/ having a slice of the pattern hues within the collection but great space-saver too. My space is limited...hopefully it's just temporary...so charm packs...pre-cut strips are perfect! So, on that note...let me tell you about that "scrappy border" and those cute ties if you haven't noticed already :-) Remember when I stated...save those scraps as you were rotary cutting your 5" squares for the scrappy-back. Well, each scrap is used within the scrappy-binding and ties. That's right you will use every bit of that 5" charm square. I don't know about you but that seriously made me happy and just a heads up, you'll be seeing more of that clever technique. I'm all about a budget friendly design plus it's so easy and gives your design more of a unique style. Yes, you can buy a pre-made border or make a solid one with coordinating fabric but why not challenge yourself, especially when it's easy. This is the "advanced technique" that I previously mentioned and if you choose to make a standard binding then measure your square all around and allow a few extra inches to your finished size. I always say to challenge yourself especially on a small project. So, here's a funny...I can remember using "rick rack" for ties when sewing my daughter's dresses. I've come a long way sewing/quilting but sometimes it is fun to use the old classic technique. So yes. Buy your binding/rickrack if desired but keep this technique in mind for further projects. Remember it's your project so make it however your heart desires. I'm just excited we're making these 2gether. Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/ MSQC

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Don't forget if you need supplies click on my MSQC link to save 15% (1 x use for January)

I love how "inspirational" this design is sitting on my shelf when I'm not sewing w/my Janome :-)

Here's all you do...

* Measure the top/bottom of your design.

* Sew your 1.5 x 5" strips 2gether at the smallest width until you reach your desired size. You can do a continuious strip but I prefer to do a section at a time. 

* Finger press as you go then iron once you've achieved your desired length.

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

* Press & square up if needed.

* Now repeat same method of piecing your 1.5 x 5" strips until you've reached your length for the left/right side of design.

Tip...don't be as O.C.D. as I was...just grab the strips...sew and have fun! You can see how I laid out the strips in pic below. That took more time than this whole project :-) ;-) 

* Now starting at top...press seam to back leaving a 1/4" binding on front. 

* Fold in half again to enclose your seam on back. Press. Clip or pin as desired.

* Top stitch or quilt in the ditch on front of design to secure your binding.

* I used Aurifil 50# Aluminum which coordinated perfectly due to all the hues in the fabric. 

* Repeat same method for bottom binding then left/right binding.

Your almost finished...now to have fun making those super cute ties!

* Using the 1.5 x 3.5 strips sew as follows...

* Sew 2gether with the same method as binding until you get your desired length.

* Finger press as you go...then iron.

* Press a 1/4" seam lengthwise on left side of strip to the back side of strip.

* Repeat on the other side of the strip.

* Now fold with right sides together. Press...Pin/clip as desired.

Note...this is a small strip so watch your fingers when pressing :-)

* Now top stitch your strip to secure. 

Tip...I did a small fold to the inside of strip to secure the raw ends before sewing. Do the same if you wish.

You're almost finished...now wrap your cover over your machine and mark area where you'd like your ties to be.

* Sew the ties within your binding seam to secure. I did a simple straight stitch with a a small stitch length then back tacked a few times to secure.

You did it! I had a blast & believe my baby lock might need one too! :-)

Special thank you to "Tied with a Ribbon" for making a great pattern to create with!

Talk soon,

Cat

"Summer Strolls Tripple Play B.O.M. by Missouri Star Quilt co.!"

 Hey quilters have you heard the exciting news? The "Doan" family is doing a fun Summer Strolls Tripple Play block of the month. I'm super excited because this will be a Christmas gift for my daughter. If I don't decide to keep it :-) Seriously y'all...yesterday I was having a bit of a doozy day and just wanted to put my flannels on and call it a day. Then... my "box" was delivered. Oh my gosh...the fabric designed by Laundry Basket Quilts for Andover fabric is stunning. The design and instructions by the Doan ladies is perfect for a beginner or advanced quilter. It comes with pre-cut strips to make your piecing easy. Hello! :-) Plus, an organizer to house your pamphlets & that box is stinking adorable that you'll want to keep out for inspiration or house your scraps. You can click on my link in home page & it will take you to their site to learn more. The discount code does not apply towards the summer strolls b.o.m. but you can definitely save on other products you might need. Oh, did I mention they also have a "tutorial" to watch to help you along "every step of the way." I'm excited and I hope y'all check it out too. You'll be learning and quilting with some of the best experienced quilters in the industry from your home. Win..win for me especially if you're having one of those days... you can still have fun quilting with your p.j.'s on :-) Trust me on that! Well Phase 3 will be posted this weekend and I hope you're enjoying the sewing machine cover as well. I'll be also starting a very sweet design next week...hint..hint :-) As always, I thank y'all so much for following. Stay warm & safe y'all!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSCQ Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSQC

Link upper right on home pg. for 15% off ( 1 x use) in January.

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

*Chuck is excited too...he's texting friends to join along :-) He's so smart!

"Measure Once Sewing Machine Cover" Phase 2 a Charm Back!

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all are doing well with this weather. I've realized that I've become a wimp. I could seriously walk room to room with an electric blanket. I love cold weather if it comes with snow...for a few hours then I'm good :-) Although when the weather is a bit nippy outside then you have a great excuse to stay inside and quilt. Not that we need an excuse...right? Well, I'm excited to share with y'all Phase 2 of this super cute design by "Tied with a Ribbon." Her design is so much fun that you might make both Jemima's wall hanging or my sewing machine cover. Either one it's a great inspirational reminder for our sewing/quilting rooms. I for one need to slow down...take my time especially when rotary cutting. Once it's cut. It's cut then those "oopsies" become scraps. That's o.k. too :-) With the "back" of our sewing machine cover I used the "charm pack" designed by Tula Pink for Free Spirit Fabrics. The pattern hues complimented the pattern/kit perfectly. But here's the fun...I'll be featuring an advanced technique using the scraps from the 5" square. Thats right y'all...we'll be using every bit of that 5" square and make the fun scrappy binder along with super cute ties. After all we need to pay compliments to Jemima's design by "tying with a ribbon." Yes...you can purchase a already piece of quilted fabric but if you do...don't tell me :-) My goal always to show fun & easy techniques to spark or challenge you. I'll admit this was so much fun, so I'll be incorporating this technique into more small projects. I love it when you use all of a piece of fabric. It makes me feel like amazing not wasting anything plus I'm saving money...using it all :-) remember if you need supplies you can purchase her kit for the design by Missouri Star Quilt Company. Link on upper right of home page will take you directly to the site plus you'll save 15% on order as well. It's a (one x use) for January. As always.... I thank y'all so much for following & scrapin'-a-long w/me! Well let's gets started on finishing this super fun inspirational & functional sewing machine cover. Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Note: remember to adjust to your size of sewing machine. Supplies needed are listed in previous post.

Here's all you do...

* Rotary cut 1 fat quarter to 17w x 12 1/4 L or to your size.

* Rotary cut backing the same.

* Now indulge in all that pretty fabric hues from the charm pack. But don't be as O.C.D. as I did. Seriously that's one of my New Year's Resolutions is to chill a bit....:-) hmmmmm.

* With each 5" square...

* Rotary cut a 3.5 a 3.5 square. This will leave you a 1.5 x 5 plus a 1.5 x 3.5 strip to set aside :-)

* Now lay out your 3.5 x 3.5 squares as desired to make rows to accommodate your desired size.

Note...I did 6 squares across and 4 rows down which allowed for my 1/4" seam allowance when sewing. You can always square up later like I did.

* Sew your squares with right sides 2gether w a 1/4" seam allowance & finger press as you go.

* Press when you've sewn all rows needed.

* Join row 1 to row 2 then to 3 etc. matching seams. See tip.

Tip: I press my seam rows in different directions for my seams to "snuggle" together when sewing.

I know a bit O.C.D. and yes maybe "Only Cat does" but if you try this simple method of first row seams pressed to the right then 2nd row press seams to the left and continue pressing opposite for as many rows needed you will see why this method is great when sewing. With all my rows I only had to "adjust" two squares :-)

* Now square up your block if needed to accommodate your sewing machine size.

* Lay backing right side down then batting & pieced block with right side up (facing you)

* Pin or clip as desired.

* Quilt as desired to secure together.

Tip: I did a "X" grid within the squares using a erasable marker. Quilted with Aurifil 50# thread.

Remember to remove the grid lines and square up if needed.

Note...don't walk away and get more coffee like I did...I actually trimmed one side twice. Ugh! But remember...quilt happens as the saying goes...continue on and ??? :-) 

* Now join your blocks 2gether (front and back)

* Sew with right sides 2gether using a 1/4" seam allowance. Top stitch on front if desired and square up if needed. 

* Mine is roughly 17w x 25L (remember you have a 1/4" binding in Phase 3 to allow for which basically gives you a 1/2" on width and height once sewn to allow for your total size needs :-)

Note...due to piecing 2 squares 2gether you will have an open seam on back. This is the perks of piecing squares separately & quilting as you go. Well...a normal person would say "who care's Cat...it's the back" Right? Well. I tried folks...slept on it then my O.C.D. got the best of me. So, if you're as quirky as me then you can follow this method. I simply made a "mock" seam binding with my scraps from the fat quarter to cover the open seam as follows...

* Rotary cut to length needed x 1.5 for width.

* Press a 1/4" seam to back on each side of strip.

* Top stitch on each side of the right side of strip.

* Press and "tack" across the seam to cover. I used washable permanent fabric glue, but you can "hand stitch" the strip if you are feeling ambitious. :-)

Simple trick but works :-) 

Y'all this is my "Design brain" from Residential & Commercial Construction. Everything needed to be precise with construction building. So, ignore my O.C.D. or enjoy a laugh and go with the flow :-) I'm seriously trying to calm my O.C.D. but as we all know when quilting it needs to be "squared up." But remember I'm preaching "less-stress-quilting" as we scrap-a-long 2gether so don't forget to have fun...make each design your own. That's what quilting is all about.... sharing...making gifts 2gther & trying new techniques plus using those scraps :-) 

Check back soon for Phase 3 & finishing,

Cat 

"Measure Once" Wall decor or Sewing Machine Cover...Phase 1

 Hey quilter's...hope your week is off to a great start. I'm preparing for some crazy weather here so this will be short and sweet. Y'all know that I love this design by Jemima Flendt from Tied with a Ribbon. The pattern is so easy to follow and has options for the saying as well. The quality of the letters is great to applique & fabric choices are super cute. I used a few on my white fat quarters as the background to make the letters and decor pop, She is a very talented quilt designer and you can view more of her designs on her Instagram & Facebook page. The pattern can be purchased along with supplies from Missouri Star Quilt Company. If you click on my link (upper right on home page) you can save 15% (1 x use) on purchase in January. I did a "1 1/2 " grid pattern on a fat quarter and pre-quilted it before a-play-queing the design but you can totally purchase pre-quilted fabric if desired. This is a small project so it's a great time to use those quilt batting scraps. I also chose the quote "measure twice...cut once." This is what I was taught as a child and has been my method for several years. I also used the scrap pieces of the orange fabric and traced the "t" to finish the word cut. Super easy & worked for me! I'm just one step ahead of y'all on this project and loving the charm pack by Tula Pink for Free Spirit Fabrics. I'm doing a "Scrappy Charm Back" and will be sharing in Phase 2. I thank y'all so much for following and stay safe in this crazy weather we're having. Don't forget...keep those Christmas scraps handy :-) Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSQC

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Note....supplies needed on previous post.

Here's all you do for Sewing Machine Cover...

Tip...before rotary cutting your fabric measure the "design area" for wording on the front of your machine. I'm a bit O.C.D. so I wanted to make sure the cute saying was visible when sitting on my shelf. This also helps when placing the decor and letters on fabric. Also add an extra inch to your dimension to allow for fabric shrinkage when quilting. You can always rotary cut/trim to size later if needed.

Step 1... 

* Rotary cut from 2 charm packs (or scrap fabric) to 17w x 13 1/2 L (or to your size)

* Rotary cut low-loft batting to same size.

* Mark a grid pattern with your preferred erasable pen/pencil on "right side of fabric." 

Tip...I did a 1 1/2" grid diagonally. I did not do crosswise grid due to appliqueing the letters for less bulk. Do the same if you wish. 

* Layer...backing (right side down)...batting then front fabric w/grid right side up (facing you)

* Pin or clip to secure.

* Quilt on grid lines. I did a longer stitch length for less bulk.

Tip..I started with center line & used my hands to keep fabric smooth as I'm quilting. This is fun and you may never buy pre-quilted fabric :-) 

* Once you've quilted the front them remove your marked grid lines following manufacturer's directions.

Step 2...the fun begins!

* If possible, place your block on a wool pressing mat. Position your words and decor pieces within your area as desired. Make sure you are happy with the positioning before next step.

* Following directions on Tied with a Ribbon pattern...remove backing of letters/decor and fuse per directions on pattern.

Tip...I fully recommend using a pressing sheet to protect your iron from any glue seepage. 

* Now applique around the design using your preferred applique stitch. 

Tip...I used a small stitch length to make pivoting around letters easier.

Well, you just finish the first Phase of your sewing machine cover. This is such a fun design that you may even make the wall hanging too. I think it would make a great gift for a fellow quilter :-)

Check back soon for Phase 2,

Cat

Quilt Inspiration "Measure Once" decor or Sewing Machine cover!"

 Hey quilter's...hope y'all had a great warm weekend. Geez the weather is frightening. Seriously "Frosty" nailed it in my mind. I'm not much of a cold weather gal & I'll admit to y'all "I'm a flannels gal all year!" I know...but they are so warm and snuggly and don't stick to you when sleeping :-) Well we all know Santa brought me this super fun design by Tied with a Ribbon...measure once cuss twice. He does know me to well. I love this pattern, but I wanted to make a sewing machine cover using the design. I have a Janome that I like to use when traveling or going to a quilt club. It's lightweight and when not in use it "sits" on my shelf. I thought how cute to have the cover reminding me what I "should" be doing. Hmmm....a little "inspiration" to see is exactly what I need. For sure! The pattern is so easy to follow if you make their wall hanging or you can "scrap-a-long" with me and make the sewing machine cover. I will be using some fat quarters along with a charm pack designed by Tula Pink for Free Spirit Fabrics. Ironically, I've been saving this cute charm pack for a special occasion. I'll be sharing some advanced techniques along the way that are easy & fun. The charm pack listed in my supplies needed are for the advanced "scrappy charm back." My design features the super cute design in front of machine cover along with the pieced back. The colors in Tula Pinks line are so vibrant and match the pattern perfectly. So why not have "cuteness" on both sides" :-) If you decide not to follow the advanced step then purchase 4 fat quarters or use up some of your scraps. The pattern can be purchased at Missouri Star Quilt Company plus you can save 15% clicking on my link. It's good for one time use in January so grab all you can to save! The kit lists options for wordings and supplies needed. I'll be sharing "measure twice cut once" in my design with y'all. Our dear late Oma told me to measure twice for accuracy before cutting. Here's a funny y'all...we used scissors when I first started cutting fabric. Amazing how her squares always lined up! As always, I thank y'all for following and remember to save those Christmas scraps. I have a "sweet design" coming soon! Sew grab your kit/supplies and whatever wording you choose we'll start the New Year with inspiration 2gether. Tomorrow starts Phase 1 for sewing machine cover but catch up when you can...Enjoy!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Here's all you need...

* Measure once pattern/kit & supplies stated on their directions if following their design. Or do both...they have the pattern letters printed for you for easy tracing :-)

Following me for "Sewing Machine cover"...

* Measure once pattern/kit

* 3 or 4 Fat quarters in light fabric (shows off those super cute letters better)

* One charm pack in vibrant colors or use scraps (directions in Phase 2 for advanced step) 

* Lightweight batting

* Coordinating thread for "raw edge applique."

Note: Items that I've found very useful, and most can be purchased at MSQC as well.

 * Applique pressing sheet ( I use the T-shirt pressing cloth by June Taylor from MSQC)

* Gingher applique scissors (helps snip letters off easily) 

* Erasable pen or pencil for tracing on fabric (advanced step is a pre-quilted grid & I use a heat erasable pen) some peeps don't like to use them because they will appear again when it's super cold. I for one don't ever plan on being in a super cold situation so it's perfect for me...but you test...play and find a erasable marker your comfortable using :-)

* Wool pressing mat (love how letters and seams have a crisp finish.

* Oliso Iron...love mine...was a gift from my late mom-in-law 10 yrs. ago & still going strong!

* Omnigrid 8" Spinning mat (love mine from MSQC)

* Olfa ergonomic rotary cutter (another love from MSQC)

* Sulky Tear-easy lightweight stabilizer (perfect for raw-edge applique....MSQC love!

* Lighted seam ripper (for those just in case moments.... another love from MSQC)

* Coordinating thread from Aurifil & Missouri Star Quilt Company (I use 50#)

* Quilters are Piecemakers mug by MSQC ( ya got to drink coffee or tea when quilting...right?)  

* Most important item or person...Chuck from Missouri Star Quilt Co. He keeps me in line! :-)

I'm sure there might be some items that I'll mention along the way, but these will definitely help w/ less-stress-quilting when "scrapin' a-long" w/me. 

Thanks for following & check back soon for Phase 1.

Cat