One Month Down ... Already

Wow ... it's the end of January already.  And we're in middle of a cold snap - a very cold snap.  Dreyfus - my Sheltie - takes one look outside and I swear he looks at me and says "I'll take my chances."

I've been knitting a lot lately - rather than stitching - but it's relaxing so anything that soothes the stress, right?  Cold weather cowls and a kimono are the current projects.  But I love going into the yarn shop and being surrounded by the beautiful colors and textures.

Getting ready for a cruise to Rome at the end of March.  It's a 14-day cruise to Rome from Miami with stops at the Azores, Gibraltar, Valencia, Alacande ending in Rome.  We're going to stay a few more days in Rome and then head back.  I can't wait!  It's gonna be fun ... lots of time on the boat ... but lots of stuff to do so I'm looking forward to having some "out of the box" fun.

So I guess it's time to break out the Primitive Garden (from Primitive Gatherings) and get to stitching on that.  It will give me plenty to do on the cruise.

So, keep warm and keep stitching!  Be kind to each other.

Namaste

What's Going On?

Ok - it's mid-April.  Supposed to be showers - that will bring May flowers.  But a "snow emergency"?  When everyone is ready for spring?  Mother Nature is having a good laugh at our expense.  Fortunately on the East Coast we're in for wind and rain today.  But my oh my - the Midwest ... wow.  A foot of snow today and 50-60 mph winds.  Just wow.

Yesterday the weather was simply gorgeous - so much so that I went and got some potted plants to hang to bring a little color to the yard.  I always start with potted plants and then once Mother's Day arrives it's flats of flowers planted.  But with the rainy weather today - it's time to be in my studio.  Who knows what I'll come up with?

For those of you who are in the midst of Mother Nature's jolly, bundle up and stay warm - and safe.  Stitch on!

In the meantime, be good to each other.

M.

Who Wants a Retreat?

 As many of you know, I've been asked to teach at the Mid-Appalachian Quilters Retreat in July at Mount St. Mary's College in Emmitsburg Maryland.  It's a great time, great quilters and the best staff you will ever find!  Those ladies do amazing things for us and do it selfishly.  You can find out the details by clicking here:  Mid-Appalachain Quilters Retreat

So, that being said, here are the projects that I will be teaching.  We have to get our class registration numbers up or the classes will be cancelled.  If you have any interest in these beautiful wool pieces, please click the link above and sign up!  I sure hope to see you all there!

This is a travel stitching pillow (see the map!) that you will not want to live without.  Having a pillow in your lap eases the pressure on your shoulders while you stitch so that shoulder/neck ache goes away.  This little sweetie has a zippered back so you can stash your work and a scissor holder that tucks away in the pillow.  It's a full day class (with a break for lunch) and requires the purchase of a kit.  Kit and pattern are $32.00 - includes the background wool and all wool for the flowers and the scissor holder.  There are several choices for the background wool - I'll select the flower colors for you!  Threads are a separate charge at $16.50 - includes all the thread you will need to complete your project.  Costs do not include the pillow form or zipper.


This dogwood mat is 22" round with a pretty scalloped edge.  It's a wonderful mat to welcome spring!  The black background is mill dyed black wool - with white dogwood flowers - and bright spring green leaves.  It's a full-day class (with a break for lunch) and requires the purchase of a kit.  Kit and pattern are $89 and include the black background wool, the white, green and brown wools and the homespun backing.  The thread kit is additional and is $16.50.

Circle Party Pinkeep!  This pincushion is so much fun to make and the bright colors bring it to life.  This is a half-day class and requires a kit purchase.  The kit includes:  robin's egg background wool, all the colored pennies (pre-cut with fusible on them!), the thread kit and the homespun backing.  It does not include the internal muslin or sand/shell filling.

So come and join us in July for stitching fun!



In the meantime, be good to each other.    --- m.
When Life gives you Hands, Make Handmade!

MAQ Class Info

Some students have asked for a little more information about the classes proposed for MAQ this year.  Class descriptions and costs can be found at Mid-Appalachian Quilters.

I'm proposing three classes this year.  Two full day classes on Friday and Saturday and one 1/2 day class on Sunday morning.

Friday Class - Flower Stitching Pillow

Kit includes all the wool you will need to complete the pillow top and scissor case.  Background wools vary (eggplant, turquoise, squash blossom, amethyst and black) to your choice.  Flower colors vary based on background color.  This pillow has a zipper back.  The zipper, pillow form and threads are not included in the kit price.

Saturday Class - Dogwood Blooms Mat

Kit includes all the wool you will need to complete the mat - including the homespun backing.  You will get light white cream, avocado green and mottled brown wools.  Backing is mill dyed black.  Thread kit is not included in the kit price.

Sunday Class - Circle Party Pinkeep

Kit includes backing wool (robin's egg blue), pennies and homespun backing.  It also includes threads.  And the pennies already have fusible on them so they're ready to fuse to your background!  It does not include interior muslin and sand/shells.

Kit and thread prices are on the MAQ website (link above).

Please email me at mbdquilter@live.com if you have any questions.

Spring is on its way!

I'm sitting in my studio looking out at my Japanese cherry tree and very happy to see the beautiful pink blooms popping out.  A sure sign spring is on its way.  It's been a bit of a tough winter here - with snowstorms in March! - and I'm a winter gal but even I'm happy to get on with Spring.  Beds are all mulched and it's time for a little color in the yard!

Lots going on here.  I'm designing some new patters with the yummy wools I have.  I love to get my packages in the mail - opening them is like walking through a greenhouse.  All those beautiful colors!  Is it illegal to "pet" your wools?  LOL!

I've been asked back to teach at Mid-Appalachian Quilters (MAQ) this year!  So exciting!  I had a great time last year with some awesome students.  It was the first year that wool appliqué was taught and I was inspired by the number of ladies who were interested.  So, new designs this year!  MAQ is from 13th to 15th July at Mount St. Mary's College in Emmitsburg, Maryland.  If you're interested, click here.   MAQ Online

I'm going to a sheep and wool festival in early May in Howard County Maryland.  Yes, they sell sheep AND wool.  I thought it might bring me some inspiration.  At the very least, I can see some sheep and sheep-lets!

So, bring on some spring!  Let's see those colors pop!  In the meantime, be kind to each other.

Happiness never decreases by being shared.  --- The Buddha

Wow!

It's been a busy past few weeks for me ... Weekend before last 13, 14 15 of July I was in Emmitsburg, MD at Mount St. Mary's University teaching at the MAQ (Mid Appalachian
Quilters) conference.  So much fun.  Got the chance to meet some may new wonderful women who are just amazing.  I was excited to have the opportunity to teach there and as part of the 30th anniversary - well, that just made it more special.  I taught a few mats from Lisa Bongean at Primitive Gatherings.  She's a great designer and these mats were good for both beginners and intermediate/advanced stitchers.  There are two versions o these mats - light and dark - and both are beautiful.  

This is a cute little mat from Wooly Lady that I just fell in love with.  The colors and vibrant and pure - they just make me happy.  It's called Fanciful Flyers.

Off to watch Game of Thrones!  Da da da-da-da-da-da-da-da (you know what this sounds like!

Namaste my Friends.

Fun at Hershey!

Today is the first day of the Hershey show - right on the back of MAQ - which by the way was sooooo much fun!  I'm with Lisa "helping" although she doesn't need MY help!  Looking forward to a great show.  More later so stay tuned!

Getting Ready!

MAQ is fast approaching ... the middle of July!  I'm checking of my to-do/to bring lists and even though I know I'm making progress - it sure doesn't feel like it!  Lots to do and prepare for.  Wools and needles and threads, Oh My!  I have a whole new appreciation for Lisa Bongean's road trips now!

So ... on top of all this prep, I'm traveling on business for the next three weeks.  Back in time to blow out of town for MAQ and the following weekend at Hershey!  July is a tough month.  August - not too bad - then Hubby and I are on our way to Italy in September for two weeks.  Crazy!!!

I'm going to keep stitching though ... have needle will travel!

Namaste my friends.

Been Stitchin'

Exciting!  I've been stitching away here getting ready for MAQ.  This design is from Lisa Bongean at Primitive Gatherings.  I've been asked to "brighten" up the colors in the at which I think I've done a good job with.  It was fun to do - choosing my own colors.  I love the light background and the way the colors pop out of it.  Hopefully, everyone else likes it as well!


I'm designing a few new things too.  I am working on my birdhouses and a few really nice flower mats.  I'm also working on a crazy mat with beautiful colored flowers.  It's going to be really awesome.  Look for that to come your way later this year.

Spring is here in Delaware ... plants and trees are all in bloom.  It's just beautiful. The weather is nice - in the 80s for the last few days.  Rain is in the forecast - but it's April so I'm ok with that.  So long as the rain brings May flowers!

How about we take this stitching thing outside for some fresh air?  Good Idea!!!!

Namaste.  Be good to each other.

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter everyone!  I hope this post find you in good spirits and with the same great weather we're having here.  What a blessed day!  Just checking in to say hi and chat about what's been going on here lately.  

I've been working with Primitive Gatherings to bring some bright colored wools into some of Lisa's designs.  She was such wonderful designs - the bright wools really bring them a new life.  You all know that I'm not a primitive kind of person from a color palette - but I love the flowers and designs that Lisa has.  So, I'm starting with the Garden Blooms mat.  Lots and Lots of flowers on that one - and I'm pairing some yummy wools with it.  Lisa has a great line of dyed wools that are bright and they compliment her designs so well.


I'm also designing a spring dogwood mat.  Really pretty that one - and I'm using some interesting threads that will bring some nice character to it.


I've started a quick and easy quilt that's taking shape nicely.  Primary fabrics are Kaffe Fassett Polka Dots ... on a grey background.  

Of course, I also have the traditional tumbler quilt thing started.  What quilter doesn't have a tumbler quilt in their closet or on their bed?




Ok, time for a bit more sewing and then for a walk in this glorious sunshine.  Hope each of you has a great day and finds a little time for yourselves.  

Namaste.

It's Finally Done!

This is going to sound dumb but I'm very excited that I finally got my library cleaned out!  We converted our formal dining room into an office/library for me and it has become the dumping ground for the house.  Don't want it in the kitchen?  Put it in the library.  Same story with everything.  Well - it's cleaned.  Everything in its place.  Now I can be productive with my sewing/stitching/quilting/designing!  Don't know about you, but I just can't concentrate or stay focused when I know there is something else that needs to be done.  Decluttering and straightening up helps me "allow" myself time to create.  It's done!

Namaste.

Happy New Year!

Just a quick note to wish everyone a Happy New Year!  I'm looking forward to the new year even though it will be a busy year for me.  Lots going on in the new year but I'm excited about it all!


Namaste.


Do not learn how to react ... learn how to respond.    -Buddha

Merry Christmas 2016

Well, another Christmas has been written.  On the East Coast it's a bright sunny day - going to be in the 40s.  I long for the cooler weather and snow for Christmas and memories when I was a kid growing up in Wisconsin.  The time spent baking and candy making was something that I won't ever forget.  I try to get some baking done each year and have to admit I'm pretty happy when I'm doing that.

The holidays are all about family to me and unfortunately I don't have too much of that left.  I lost my dad some 20 years ago and lost my mom just 4 short years ago.  I miss them each day.  My don't remember my mom being a big Christmas fan but my dad loved Christmas.  I have a brother who really wasn't into Christmas but really loves the holidays now.  

Fred and I also have a lot of friends that we're very close to.  They try to take care of the poor folks without kids during the holidays so we never lack of a place to spend the holidays.

Unfortunately this year both Fred and I have been sick over the holidays so I haven't had the chance to re-live many of my holiday memories  this winter season.  I will admit, it was nice laying around on Christmas Eve watching Home Alone and Christmas Vacation with a cup of tea, a kleenex box and some TV snacks.  I think we should do more of that in the years to come because spending time with those you love is important no matter what time of the year it is.  

So wherever you're spending the holidays - with family, with friends, with each other - have a very wonderful Christmastime.  

Namaste.

Spring Cleaning in December

I admit it.  I am a bit of a hoarder.  I am on vacation until the new year and I want to get as much sewing and stitching in as I can during that time.  I came into my sewing studio today to a mess - not unexpected I must say.  I've been in and out of this room for the last two weeks putting Christmas gifts together so it does look like a hurricane hit it.  So I spent a few hours this morning cleaning and straightening up so the I can get something done.  I still have to clean the fabric room - but that will take a bit more time.  Maybe I'll take a day of my precious vacation and get that done.






That said - look at this little guy!  Lisa Bongean from Primitive Gatherings designed this little dude.  How smart he looks with his top hat!  So easy to make ... and those are real buttons!  Teeny tiny buttons!






This lap quilt was a "please can I have it for Christmas" last minute request from a friend.  Luckily, I had the blocks already made.  I love the "off centered-ness" of the design.  Tick that off my work list!

 This little beauty is from my BFF.  I'm putting all my wool stitching paraphernalia in it!  It's a fantastic bag with little individual zippered compartments that hold lots and lots of stuff.  I can even put thread balls in it!  Absolutely LOVE this!  It's one of the best presents anyone ever gave me.  Does she know me or what!!!!






Time to get a little more cleaning done before heading out for another Christmas party.  Love the season but all these parties are exhausting!!!!

I hope you find some time for you this holiday season ... to sew or stitch or meditate.  Merry Christmas!!!

Namaste.

More Yummy Wools

So, when I was in Wisconsin over the Thanksgiving holiday I picked up these yummy wools - they just came via UPS yesterday.  The are nice and bright - but not neon - and I have a great project I'm designing that I will use them for.  I can't wait to start playing with them!  In the meantime, I'll design and pet them until I can use them.

Namaste.


In the end, only three things matter:  how you loved, how gently you lived and how gracefully you let go of things that were not meant for you.            - Siddhartha Gautama

Getting Ready to Start a New Year

Ok - we just finished Thanksgiving and I'm already talking New Year - skipping right past Christmas.  I feel like I'm coming late to the party here ... the year is zooming by.  Christmas is right around the corner.  Wow.  What happened?  It seems like it was April just a month ago.

So, what am I working on?  Well, I'm working on a new wool table runner design.  I have some yummy new wools that I'm itching to use.  Haven't decided yet what I'm going to do with them - but I know I want a nice runner.  Maybe 55" or so ... something in nice neutral shade.  Hmm ... so many wonderful colors.

I'm looking forward to the holiday season where I get a few days of vacation.  I'm always happy when I can get creative!