McHenry Landmark Crazy Quilt Block 30

I just finished up another block for the McHenry Landmark Crazy Quilt.  This is the McHenry Brewery built in 1868 by George Gribbler:

Here's an older photo of it:

Much of the original building has been replaced but it's still in operation!

Here's the entire quilt so far:

There will be 10 more blocks so I still have a little way to go!

The McHenry Crazy Quilt Block 29

I pulled out the crazy quilt that I've been working on for a few years featuring the landmarks of McHenry Illinois where I live.  I still have a few blocks to go but this is the old Iron Bridge over the Fox River.  It was built in 1881 and replaced with concrete bridge in 1976:

The colors are brighter than they look here.  I need to get a new digital camera so for now, I'm just using the camera on my cellphone.

Here's the entire quilt so far:

Click on the photos to enlarge the images.

This quilt is pieced entirely by hand on a cotton foundation.  A lace is either vintage or antique.  Each block has a spider and spider web on it.  The spiders are made from vintage Mother Of Pearl buttons.

The next block is our Brewery.  I'll post a photo when it's complete.

Classic Chicago Christmas from WGN

If you grew up in the Chicago area like I did, you might enjoy these classic Christmas favorites from WGN TV.

Suzy Snowflake:

Hardrock, Coco and Joe:

Frosty The Snowman:

Merry Christmas Everyone!

January Pattern Releases

I decided to release my January Cross Stitch patterns a little early.  I'm going to take a little break between Christmas and New Year's to do some stitching.  I pulled out my McHenry Crazy Quilt.  I have 12 more blocks to do and then I think it'll be ready to assemble.  Stay tuned for an update on that!

Here are the new releases.  First a new Colorful Cat named Vivaldi:

And a set of Valentine Heart Ornaments with little Blue Birds:

Easter Egg Friends is a set 2 full coverage egg shaped ornaments.  One with a little chick and one with a bunny:

Finally, a set of 4 geometric quilt designs with little birds.  One for each season:

Ask for my patterns are your favorite needlework retail store or find them here:

Kitty And Me Designs

Holiday Joy Free Christmas Cross Stitch Pattern

 I have a new free cross stitch pattern today!  But first I wanted to share my little Christmas Tree.

I've had this little 2 foot tree since the 1970's.  Every couple of years, I redecorate it and decided this year it could use a fresh look.  I picked up some little cream and gold ornaments from Hobby Lobby along with some red berries and used some little gold beaded garland along with some torn Homespun fabric.  The Santa at the top is an Avon pin from the 80's.  The picket fence box was made by my dad.  I like an elegant country look.  Now to keep my cats away from it!!

Okay, so I promised you a new free Christmas pattern.  Here it is, Holiday Joy:

This vintage snowman border would look great on a fingertip towel!  If you collect Vintage Fire King Jadite like I do, the colors will match perfectly!!

Download the PDF file here:

Holiday Joy Free Cross Stitch Pattern