Well, I didn't get this straight on the scanner, but it's enough for you to see what I'm doing.
The background fabric is black cotton and the lace is vintage. I picked it up at a flea market last Summer.
I did 3 of these (I'm saving one of the pansy sets for a crazy quilt).
The next step is to sew them into doorknockers. I won't get to that today. I'd still like to get the border lace on the Shamrock CQ and I'd like to start on Garden Girl #3.
Cross Stitch Patterns inspired by nature, animals, holidays and scripture by Pamela Kellogg
Friday, May 12, 2006
Garden Girl 2 Complete
I finished this design yesterday so now I can move onto Garden Girl #3.
I can't believe that I didn't have more in the way of pink buttons. I have jars and jars of buttons but not alot of pink ones. The metallic buttons worked out well though and to balance them out, I added the silver tulip charm in the bottom left-hand corner.
I have alot of handsewing to do today but I hope to have time to start on #3 later.
I can't believe that I didn't have more in the way of pink buttons. I have jars and jars of buttons but not alot of pink ones. The metallic buttons worked out well though and to balance them out, I added the silver tulip charm in the bottom left-hand corner.
I have alot of handsewing to do today but I hope to have time to start on #3 later.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Working.....
With so much to stitch, design and finish, why do I have to take time to eat and sleep?
I didn't get any stitching time in yesterday so I don't have an update for you on my Garden Girl block today. But I am off to work on it now.
I just sewed the borders on the Shamrock quilt so the next step on that is to hand-sew the border lace on.
And I came up with something really cool to do with those "dryer sheet" pansies that I made! Will have an update on that project soon!
Stay tuned!!!!
I didn't get any stitching time in yesterday so I don't have an update for you on my Garden Girl block today. But I am off to work on it now.
I just sewed the borders on the Shamrock quilt so the next step on that is to hand-sew the border lace on.
And I came up with something really cool to do with those "dryer sheet" pansies that I made! Will have an update on that project soon!
Stay tuned!!!!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Garden Girl 2 Day 3
A little more embellishing on this block. I added my signature, covered two more seams and beaded the lace and trim on the bottom left-hand corner.
I'd like to add some buttons to this block but don't want to overpower the roses. I'll have to try some different buttons and see how it looks.
I'd like to add some buttons to this block but don't want to overpower the roses. I'll have to try some different buttons and see how it looks.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
"All That Jazz" Fundraiser Quilts Now On Ebay
I just got word from Sharon at In A Minute Ago, that the "All That Jazz" quilts are now up for auction at Ebay. Be sure to visit Sharon's blog for a full account of everything regarding the "All That Jazz" project.
Here are the links to the quilts:
Quilt #1
Quilt #2
Quilt #3
All proceeds go to Baton Rouge Area Foundation / FoundationsForRecovery.org
To refresh your memory, here is my block which appears on Quilt #1:
To see how the quilts were assembled, visit Annie's Crazy World.
Here are the links to the quilts:
Quilt #1
Quilt #2
Quilt #3
All proceeds go to Baton Rouge Area Foundation / FoundationsForRecovery.org
To refresh your memory, here is my block which appears on Quilt #1:
To see how the quilts were assembled, visit Annie's Crazy World.
Garden Girl 2 Day 2
Geez, between Flickr and Blogspot, I've had one heck of a time trying to post today!
I wanted to share an update with you on my Garden Girl 2 block. As you can see, I did some ribbon embroidery. Quite challenging on the seam lines! The spider web roses aren't bad at all because they're woven but trying to pull the ribbon through all those layers to do the leaves was rather time consuming!
Speaking of ribbon embroidery, I've been asked to do several ribbon embroidery designs. The challenge there for me is that I usually freehand the stitching on my crazy quilts but this time, I actually have to draw out a pattern and then stitch it according to that pattern. Which I'm off to do now. Wish me luck!
I wanted to share an update with you on my Garden Girl 2 block. As you can see, I did some ribbon embroidery. Quite challenging on the seam lines! The spider web roses aren't bad at all because they're woven but trying to pull the ribbon through all those layers to do the leaves was rather time consuming!
Speaking of ribbon embroidery, I've been asked to do several ribbon embroidery designs. The challenge there for me is that I usually freehand the stitching on my crazy quilts but this time, I actually have to draw out a pattern and then stitch it according to that pattern. Which I'm off to do now. Wish me luck!
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Garden Girl 2
This is the second in the Garden Girl series. I'll be starting on this block later today.
Garden Girl 1 Complete
I finished this piece last night. I always feel a bit sad when I finish one, I want to keep stitching! Thankfully, I've sewn up a couple so I can just move on to another one.
I've been asked about the pink flowers. The flowers are those little "forgetmenot sprays" that are used on favors for baby and wedding showers. In fact, I need to find some more. I ordered them years ago for craft projects and I've used quite a few of them now.
I just take them off the stems and attach them using several seed beads.
I've been asked about the pink flowers. The flowers are those little "forgetmenot sprays" that are used on favors for baby and wedding showers. In fact, I need to find some more. I ordered them years ago for craft projects and I've used quite a few of them now.
I just take them off the stems and attach them using several seed beads.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Complimentary Blackwork Design
Judging by my Statcounter, I can see that some of you are looking for the complimentary blackwork design I did last Summer as a challenge project.
I thought I would post the design again to make it easier for my readers to find. Click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr site where you can download a readable version.
Enjoy!
I thought I would post the design again to make it easier for my readers to find. Click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr site where you can download a readable version.
Enjoy!
Garden Girl 1 Day 2
I added alot to this block yesterday. The pink flowers are a bit brighter than I wanted but nothing else I had showed up on this block.
I still have some more stitching to do on this and will hopefully have time later today.
I'm off to visit my mom for a little while.
I still have some more stitching to do on this and will hopefully have time later today.
I'm off to visit my mom for a little while.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Garden Girl 1
The first in a series of 3 Garden Girl designs, this block is 5 inches square. I started on this yesterday afternoon but forgot to scan it before stitching.
The white lace has sequins on it which gummed up my sewing machine needles pretty good but it's so sparkly! A little hard to stitch on too but the finished results will be worth it!
More later...
The white lace has sequins on it which gummed up my sewing machine needles pretty good but it's so sparkly! A little hard to stitch on too but the finished results will be worth it!
More later...
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Teacup Bird Complete
I finished this little birdie yesterday afternoon. I think I'll make it into a pillow using some of my reproduction 40's fabrics.
I'm taking today off from my charted design work and I'm going to run my sewing machine! Plan to make some more small 5 inch block crazy quilt doorknockers.
I have most of my "finishing" done. All I have left to do is the finishing on is my Shamrock quilt. I'm hoping to start on that tomorrow.
I'm taking today off from my charted design work and I'm going to run my sewing machine! Plan to make some more small 5 inch block crazy quilt doorknockers.
I have most of my "finishing" done. All I have left to do is the finishing on is my Shamrock quilt. I'm hoping to start on that tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Dryer Sheet Pansies
I completed these yesterday afternoon and I think they just look so cool! They're softer looking than what the scan shows. The scan makes them look a bit dark.
Anyway, I did some tatted rings for the centers, added a Czech glass bead in the center as well as the black lines and now they're ready to sew onto something. Will probably use one on a crazy quilt block and maybe make the others into doorknockers.
Anyway, I did some tatted rings for the centers, added a Czech glass bead in the center as well as the black lines and now they're ready to sew onto something. Will probably use one on a crazy quilt block and maybe make the others into doorknockers.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Update
Not much new to share today. Been working on the finishing of some projects. I really got behind on some things. I've also been working a little bit more on the dryer sheet pansies (I did 4 of them) and I'm still stitching on the little bird with the teacup. As soon as I have something complete, I'll share!
In the meantime, I've found a few more blogs that I just love and thought my readers too would like to check them out:
A Beautiful Craft
Primrose Designs
Norththreads
In the meantime, I've found a few more blogs that I just love and thought my readers too would like to check them out:
A Beautiful Craft
Primrose Designs
Norththreads
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Dryer Sheet Pansy
If you own Judith Montano's "Floral Stitches" book, you'll probably recognize this pansy pattern. Judith did hers out of velvet.
I wanted to do something cool with my painted dryer sheets so I used Heat & Bond and applied them to pastel solid colored cotton fabric. Once I had everything bonded together, I used some iron-on interfacing on the back of the pansies.
I drew up the leaves myself but they're not attached at this point.
I used 3 strands of DMC embroidery floss for the blanket stitching and I think I'm going to do some tatted rings for the centers with beads. Then I'll embroider the black lines in and some veins on the leaves.
I wanted to do something cool with my painted dryer sheets so I used Heat & Bond and applied them to pastel solid colored cotton fabric. Once I had everything bonded together, I used some iron-on interfacing on the back of the pansies.
I drew up the leaves myself but they're not attached at this point.
I used 3 strands of DMC embroidery floss for the blanket stitching and I think I'm going to do some tatted rings for the centers with beads. Then I'll embroider the black lines in and some veins on the leaves.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Teacup Bird
I mentioned earlier this week, that I wanted to do some simple embroidery before starting on another crazy quilt block.
This little bird with a teacup is I believe, a Superior Transfer pattern. Can't remember for sure though as I traced it out awhile back. I'll make it into a pillow eventually.
I'm still working away at getting the finishing done on some projects. I got behind on alot of things and am now trying to catch up.
The Moonlit Peacock quilt is completely done now. I added my quilt label yesterday.
I'm off to try to finish up a few more projects.
This little bird with a teacup is I believe, a Superior Transfer pattern. Can't remember for sure though as I traced it out awhile back. I'll make it into a pillow eventually.
I'm still working away at getting the finishing done on some projects. I got behind on alot of things and am now trying to catch up.
The Moonlit Peacock quilt is completely done now. I added my quilt label yesterday.
I'm off to try to finish up a few more projects.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
More Fun With Dryer Sheets
As promised, here are scans of the dryer sheets I did yesterday. They're not nearly as dark as they look here. They're very pastel and really just have a hint of metallic sparkle to them from the paint.
I dyed these first with Jacquard dyes. Once dry, I brushed just a bit of the Jacquard Lumier paint on them. This produced a different effect than what I did the day before.
As for what to do with them, I plan to use them in my Crazy Quilts. They can be torn to produce a soft, ragged edge or cut with scissors in various shapes such as leaves and flowers. They can be layered over other fabrics and since they're not stiff from the paint, embroidering on them should be rather easy as long as there's a foundation fabric underneath them.
As soon as I get some more of my finishing done, I'd like to play with them a bit and see what I come up with.
Thanks to everyone who emailed me and offered to send me some. I think I'm good to go for awhile now!
I dyed these first with Jacquard dyes. Once dry, I brushed just a bit of the Jacquard Lumier paint on them. This produced a different effect than what I did the day before.
As for what to do with them, I plan to use them in my Crazy Quilts. They can be torn to produce a soft, ragged edge or cut with scissors in various shapes such as leaves and flowers. They can be layered over other fabrics and since they're not stiff from the paint, embroidering on them should be rather easy as long as there's a foundation fabric underneath them.
As soon as I get some more of my finishing done, I'd like to play with them a bit and see what I come up with.
Thanks to everyone who emailed me and offered to send me some. I think I'm good to go for awhile now!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Complete
I just finished adding a few more beads and leaves to this block and now it's complete. It certainly has the look of Autumn with all those falling leaves! And it works fine with the other 2 in the series. Now to figure out a fabric combination for the Winter block.
The one thing I have to do tomorrow is to get my quilt label on my large peacock block. And I still have to do the finishing on the Shamrock block that I did awhile back. Maybe later this week.
I'll have more painted dryer sheets to share with you in the morning. I have some cool ideas for those too!
The one thing I have to do tomorrow is to get my quilt label on my large peacock block. And I still have to do the finishing on the Shamrock block that I did awhile back. Maybe later this week.
I'll have more painted dryer sheets to share with you in the morning. I have some cool ideas for those too!
Dryer Sheets
Over the weekend, I picked up the Summer 2006 issue of "Cloth, Paper, Scissors" magazine. Published by the same company as "Quilting Arts" magazine, this one appeals to the mixed media artist more than the art quilter but on occasion I buy a copy for inspiration. After all, Crazy Quilting is simply a form of collage art.
Well, there's an article in this issue by Denise Warner called, Fibertastic Adventure and what caught my eye was her suggestion for using dryer sheets in fiber art or paper collage.
Now, I don't use dryer sheets, I use liquid fabric softener so I mooched a few dryer sheets from my mom (actually a whole box) because I just had to try this!
This set was done by actually running the sheets through my washing machine and then my dryer with a load of clothes. Then using a big fat stencil brush, I worked Jacquard Lumiere Paints (available at Michael's) into the dryer sheets.
This set was done by soaking the dryer sheets in my kitchen sink until the fabric softener was out of them and then I put them in the dryer with a couple of towels. Once dry, I stretched them out a bit and then painted them. As you can see, they're a little more sheer than the first set I did.
To see larger photos, click on the pictures.
I have another set drying on my countertop in the kitchen at the moment. And yet another set in my dryer. Will share those tomorrow.
The scanner really doesn't do these justice. They're sheer and natural looking and can be torn or cut for a ton of different uses. I'll share some of my ideas when I post the next couple of batches. For now, I have to get some x stitch design work done.
Well, there's an article in this issue by Denise Warner called, Fibertastic Adventure and what caught my eye was her suggestion for using dryer sheets in fiber art or paper collage.
Now, I don't use dryer sheets, I use liquid fabric softener so I mooched a few dryer sheets from my mom (actually a whole box) because I just had to try this!
This set was done by actually running the sheets through my washing machine and then my dryer with a load of clothes. Then using a big fat stencil brush, I worked Jacquard Lumiere Paints (available at Michael's) into the dryer sheets.
This set was done by soaking the dryer sheets in my kitchen sink until the fabric softener was out of them and then I put them in the dryer with a couple of towels. Once dry, I stretched them out a bit and then painted them. As you can see, they're a little more sheer than the first set I did.
To see larger photos, click on the pictures.
I have another set drying on my countertop in the kitchen at the moment. And yet another set in my dryer. Will share those tomorrow.
The scanner really doesn't do these justice. They're sheer and natural looking and can be torn or cut for a ton of different uses. I'll share some of my ideas when I post the next couple of batches. For now, I have to get some x stitch design work done.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Rosebud Trim And Finishing News
I've been busy as a bee here, trying to get some things in order and some projects finished up. Life has been a bit crazy and unpredictable for quite some time now but it appears that all may be settling down now.
I was in WalMart this morning, and found these pretty rosebud trims on the clearance shelf in the craft dept. I think the yellow one might work nicely on the Easter block!
I completed the finishing on the large peacock quilt yesterday. All that's left to do is to add my quilt label. I don't know if I'll be able to get that done tonight or not. I have several other things to finish up as well.
I don't mind doing finishing, but it isn't all that exciting so I tend to wait until I have several things that need to be finished and then do them all at once.
I was in WalMart this morning, and found these pretty rosebud trims on the clearance shelf in the craft dept. I think the yellow one might work nicely on the Easter block!
I completed the finishing on the large peacock quilt yesterday. All that's left to do is to add my quilt label. I don't know if I'll be able to get that done tonight or not. I have several other things to finish up as well.
I don't mind doing finishing, but it isn't all that exciting so I tend to wait until I have several things that need to be finished and then do them all at once.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Sneak Preview
I didn't stitch on the Autumn Peacock block yesterday. Instead, I did some finishing on my sewing machine and then sewed up 2 more blocks.
This one will be an Easter themed block with a chick done in punchneedle.
The other block is a Strawberry theme but I'll wait to post that one until I start on it.
I would like to do some simple iron-on transfer embroidery before I start on this block and I do have to finish up the Autumn Peacock too.
I was going to do the Winter Peacock block yesterday as well but I just couldn't get a fabric combination that I was happy with. If I have some time, I may try again today.
I plan to do the finishing on my large peacock block today. I have to layer it and then bind it. No border on that one, just black binding. I'll get a photo of the full quilt up here as soon as I can.
This one will be an Easter themed block with a chick done in punchneedle.
The other block is a Strawberry theme but I'll wait to post that one until I start on it.
I would like to do some simple iron-on transfer embroidery before I start on this block and I do have to finish up the Autumn Peacock too.
I was going to do the Winter Peacock block yesterday as well but I just couldn't get a fabric combination that I was happy with. If I have some time, I may try again today.
I plan to do the finishing on my large peacock block today. I have to layer it and then bind it. No border on that one, just black binding. I'll get a photo of the full quilt up here as soon as I can.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 8
Almost done! I added my signature yesterday along with some more beads and several leaves scattered here and there.
I may add another leaf or two and a few more beads and then I think that should be about it. I'm trying to keep this consistent with the other 2 blocks in this series so I'm avoiding the urge to "embellish like crazy" on this!
The last in the series will be the Winter block. I'm thinking it should be be in greys, blues and maybe some light mint green. I'll have to get my fabrics out and see what works. I'd like the peacock to be white so he'll need to be on a fabric color that he'll show up on.
I may add another leaf or two and a few more beads and then I think that should be about it. I'm trying to keep this consistent with the other 2 blocks in this series so I'm avoiding the urge to "embellish like crazy" on this!
The last in the series will be the Winter block. I'm thinking it should be be in greys, blues and maybe some light mint green. I'll have to get my fabrics out and see what works. I'd like the peacock to be white so he'll need to be on a fabric color that he'll show up on.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 7
Not alot of stitching to show for yesterday but some. I added the glass flower beads to the trim at the bottom, added the seam treatment to the feather patch and then the little fan stitches along the lace trim.
I want to do some more beading on the green trim and add some beads to those fan stitches. I still have to add my signature as well. I hope to have more to share tomorrow.
I want to do some more beading on the green trim and add some beads to those fan stitches. I still have to add my signature as well. I hope to have more to share tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Satin Stitch Maple Leaf Border
I received several emails asking about the maple leaf seam border that I used on the Autumn Peacock block. I charted it out for those of you who would like to use it.
Pin a piece of 8.5 count waste canvas along your seam line. Stitch the design according to the chart and then carefully pull the waste canvas out. I added beads once I had the WC pulled.
I didn't have time over the weekend to work on the Autumn Peacock block but I'm hoping to have a few hours later today. If I do, I'll post my progress tomorrow.
Pin a piece of 8.5 count waste canvas along your seam line. Stitch the design according to the chart and then carefully pull the waste canvas out. I added beads once I had the WC pulled.
I didn't have time over the weekend to work on the Autumn Peacock block but I'm hoping to have a few hours later today. If I do, I'll post my progress tomorrow.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Peacock Feather Pattern
One of my readers asked me how I do the feathers on my peacock blocks. I thought I'd go ahead and post this pattern again for those who missed it a couple of weeks ago.
I trace it onto tissue paper, pin it in place on the block and embroider it using 2 strands of cotton floss and 1 strand of Kreinik Blending Filament.
Too keep the tissue paper from shredding as I stitch, I try to use a beading needle but it can be challenging to thread with 3 strands. Just try to use the smallest needle possible.
When stitching is complete, carefully tear away the tissue paper from under the stitches. I usually have to use a pin to get some of it out.
I trace it onto tissue paper, pin it in place on the block and embroider it using 2 strands of cotton floss and 1 strand of Kreinik Blending Filament.
Too keep the tissue paper from shredding as I stitch, I try to use a beading needle but it can be challenging to thread with 3 strands. Just try to use the smallest needle possible.
When stitching is complete, carefully tear away the tissue paper from under the stitches. I usually have to use a pin to get some of it out.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 6
This block is coming along nicely, although I'm a bit undecided on what to do with the seam where the feather is. I think it needs something simple.
I use alot of 8.5 count waste canvas when doing my seam embroidery. It gives me the ability to do perfectly spaced stitches, something I'm not good at when doing it freehand.
I'm really eager to do a more heavily embellished block but I'm trying to stay within the same style as the first two in this series.
I use alot of 8.5 count waste canvas when doing my seam embroidery. It gives me the ability to do perfectly spaced stitches, something I'm not good at when doing it freehand.
I'm really eager to do a more heavily embellished block but I'm trying to stay within the same style as the first two in this series.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 5
I finished stitching the feather yesterday. Based on the scan, it appears to look just fine running off the block.
I added the fan stitch border under the peacock and then with waste canvas, satin stitched some maple leaves on. I've posted the charted pattern in case anyone would like to use these. Just click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr page where you can download the pattern.
I haven't pulled the waste canvas out yet. I'd like to add a border along the edge of the leaves.
I added the fan stitch border under the peacock and then with waste canvas, satin stitched some maple leaves on. I've posted the charted pattern in case anyone would like to use these. Just click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr page where you can download the pattern.
I haven't pulled the waste canvas out yet. I'd like to add a border along the edge of the leaves.
Satin Stitch Maple Leaf
This little charted leaf can also be used as a Shamrock.
I used 8.5 count waste canvas and 1 strand of 3 ply Watercolor thread from The Caron Collection.
I used 8.5 count waste canvas and 1 strand of 3 ply Watercolor thread from The Caron Collection.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 4
As you can see, I did some more fill in on the peacock, added the tail and an autumn leaf pin that I found at a flea market last Summer. I also started the peacock feather which is going to be "off the block" a bit because I need to leave room for some sort of seam treatment.
I'm trying to stay consistent on this one with the Spring and Summer block since this will part of a four block bellpull. I didn't like the idea of running the feather off the block but I think it'll look ok when it's complete.
I'm trying to stay consistent on this one with the Spring and Summer block since this will part of a four block bellpull. I didn't like the idea of running the feather off the block but I think it'll look ok when it's complete.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Autumn Peacock Block Day 3
Yesterday afternoon, I added some braid to the ribbon across the top and then started to embroider the peacock. I still have some fill-in to do on the peacock and I need to define the wings some more. Once that's done, I can do the tail and add the leaf pin.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Autumn Peacock 2
I did get around to starting this block on Sunday. I added some trim and embroidered one seam. Hopefully I'll be able to sit still and work on it more later today.
I have a pretty Autumn leaf pin that I'll use for the peacock's tail. The peacock will go in the large orange patch and I think the feather will have to be in the brown patch above it. I don't think there's room anywhere else for it but I'll try a few different things first before I actually embroider them on.
I have a pretty Autumn leaf pin that I'll use for the peacock's tail. The peacock will go in the large orange patch and I think the feather will have to be in the brown patch above it. I don't think there's room anywhere else for it but I'll try a few different things first before I actually embroider them on.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Four Season Peacock Bellpull
You may remember these 2 blocks that I did last Summer:
I decided to work these into a 4 Seasons Peacock Bellpull. The Autumn block is ready for stitching now:
I may be starting on this later today if I have time. I'm a bit restless at the moment, can't seem to sit still but I'm hoping by the time my Cubs Baseball game starts, that I'll be settled enough to stitch. I'll share the progress as usual.
I decided to work these into a 4 Seasons Peacock Bellpull. The Autumn block is ready for stitching now:
I may be starting on this later today if I have time. I'm a bit restless at the moment, can't seem to sit still but I'm hoping by the time my Cubs Baseball game starts, that I'll be settled enough to stitch. I'll share the progress as usual.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Valentine Ornament 6 Complete
I've completed the last of the Valentine ornaments. I really love this one, the colors, the composition. The light blue fabric almost looks like snowflakes.
I have another small peacock block ready to stitch. You may remember the 2 I did last Summer. I'll repost the photos when I start the next one. My intention for them is to do a 4 seasons peacock bellpull.
I have another small peacock block ready to stitch. You may remember the 2 I did last Summer. I'll repost the photos when I start the next one. My intention for them is to do a 4 seasons peacock bellpull.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Valentine Ornament 6 With Embroidery Day 2
As you can see, I had some time yesterday to work on this. I added the lazy daisy leaves and some beads and then of course, the button cluster to the top right. I'd like to add a few more buttons on the left and of course, some more beads. I also have to add a little applique to my signature.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Valentine Ornament 6 With Embroidery
Here's the last of my Valentine ornaments. I started work on this the other day and hope to have some time later to add more to it.
After this one, I think I have one more block that I can stitch on and then I'll have to piece a couple of blocks.
After this one, I think I have one more block that I can stitch on and then I'll have to piece a couple of blocks.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Valentine Ornament 5 Complete
I actually stitched this from start to finish yesterday! I've suddenly had a new found interest in using my buttons on my quilts. And thank goodness because I have enough for this lifetime and my next!
I have one more Valentine ornament to stitch and I may be starting that shortly, after I fold a load of laundry and finish up my Kitty & Me paperwork for the week.
I have one more Valentine ornament to stitch and I may be starting that shortly, after I fold a load of laundry and finish up my Kitty & Me paperwork for the week.
Friday, March 31, 2006
The Moonlit Peacock Quilt
As I mentioned last week, the peacock quilt is complete with the exception of the finishing. I took it off the frame the other day and just scanned a few sections of it to share here.
This is the center portion where the peacock is.
This section is the bottom left.
And this one is the bottom right.
I didn't scan the top corners. My signature sits at the top left. As soon as I have the time and motivation to transfer photos from the digi to a CD, I'll share a picture of the entire piece.
It's brighter in person than is shows here and very sparkly! If you would like to see larger versions of these photos, just click on the images and they will take you to my Flickr page.
This is the center portion where the peacock is.
This section is the bottom left.
And this one is the bottom right.
I didn't scan the top corners. My signature sits at the top left. As soon as I have the time and motivation to transfer photos from the digi to a CD, I'll share a picture of the entire piece.
It's brighter in person than is shows here and very sparkly! If you would like to see larger versions of these photos, just click on the images and they will take you to my Flickr page.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Doorknocker Tutorial
I didn't get to do any stitching over the weekend. We ripped up the carpet in the short side of the living room and then last night, tore out that part of the ceiling. We might be able to hang a piece or 2 of drywall later today.
In the meantime, my friend Chris was kind enough to add my "Doorknocker Tutorial" to my website for me. For those of you who missed it before the post became lost in cyberspace, click here to find it on my website.
In the meantime, my friend Chris was kind enough to add my "Doorknocker Tutorial" to my website for me. For those of you who missed it before the post became lost in cyberspace, click here to find it on my website.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Valentine Ornament 4 Completed
I had a little bit of free time yesterday afternoon so I was able to complete this piece.
As you can see, I did some button clusters. It's been awhile since I've used buttons on any of my blocks. I've been watching Linda's current block and was inspired by her work. I have more buttons than I know what to do with so I kind of thought I'd better start using them.
I really love how this one came out. I hope to have time to start on Valentine Block #5 later today. I still have to take the peacock piece off of the frame, I just haven't made a point of doing it yet.
As you can see, I did some button clusters. It's been awhile since I've used buttons on any of my blocks. I've been watching Linda's current block and was inspired by her work. I have more buttons than I know what to do with so I kind of thought I'd better start using them.
I really love how this one came out. I hope to have time to start on Valentine Block #5 later today. I still have to take the peacock piece off of the frame, I just haven't made a point of doing it yet.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Valentine Ornament 4 With Embroidery Day 2
I was able to do some beading on this yesterday. I added quite a few beads as you can see.
I'm painting the other half of the floor today so I should be able to work on it in between coats. I expect to complete it and will share another photo tomorrow if I do.
In answer to Gina's question about taking before/during/after photos of the living room, yes. I believe Scott has been taking photos of the progress. When I have time to transfer the photos from the digi to a CD, I'll share some here.
I'm painting the other half of the floor today so I should be able to work on it in between coats. I expect to complete it and will share another photo tomorrow if I do.
In answer to Gina's question about taking before/during/after photos of the living room, yes. I believe Scott has been taking photos of the progress. When I have time to transfer the photos from the digi to a CD, I'll share some here.
Friday, March 24, 2006
Valentine Ornament 4 With Embroidery
Well, I finished my peacock quilt. The embroidery and embellishing portion of it anyway. I haven't taken it off the frame yet but when I do, I'll scan parts of it and share it here.
Since I can't get to my sewing machine at the moment, due to the construction zone, I decided to work on the rest of the Valentine blocks that I started back in January. This is #4. As you can see, I added some lace and then I started to cover the seams.
I struggle a bit with these tiny little blocks. They're 5 X 5 and I feel much more comfortable and confident when stitching on 9 inch blocks. These littles one feel too compact to me. Still, they are fun to do and after working on the peacock for so long, it'll be nice to see some instant gratification.
The Living room is still moving forward. I just put a coat of paint on 1/2 of the floor out there. I thought I would stitch for an hour and then I hope it'll be ready for a second coat. Tomorrow, I'll do the other side. I sure will be glad when we're done with this!
As I mentioned earlier, we'll be putting hardwood flooring in eventually but for now, we have to live with the subfloor. We felt a nice coat of white paint would make it feel more comfortable for the time being.
Since I can't get to my sewing machine at the moment, due to the construction zone, I decided to work on the rest of the Valentine blocks that I started back in January. This is #4. As you can see, I added some lace and then I started to cover the seams.
I struggle a bit with these tiny little blocks. They're 5 X 5 and I feel much more comfortable and confident when stitching on 9 inch blocks. These littles one feel too compact to me. Still, they are fun to do and after working on the peacock for so long, it'll be nice to see some instant gratification.
The Living room is still moving forward. I just put a coat of paint on 1/2 of the floor out there. I thought I would stitch for an hour and then I hope it'll be ready for a second coat. Tomorrow, I'll do the other side. I sure will be glad when we're done with this!
As I mentioned earlier, we'll be putting hardwood flooring in eventually but for now, we have to live with the subfloor. We felt a nice coat of white paint would make it feel more comfortable for the time being.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
More Embellishing on the Peacock Quilt
I haven't had alot of time to work on this. We've really progressed on the living room remodel project although we do still have a long way to go.
You may remember that my my living room is "L" shaped. We moved all the furniture to the short side of the living room and we've been working on the long side.
The drywall is up on the ceiling in that part, the plastering is done and there is only a little bit of sanding left in 2 corners. I have primer on the majority of that ceiling now. We just have a little bit to finish up and that phase of the ceiling project is done.
Since we have that part of the LR is sectioned off with plastic sheeting, we decided to rip up the carpeting on that side. We knew there would dust with carpet removal so it made sense to do it now.
That was fun! Once we got the carpeting up, we literally had to scrape the padding off. Under the padding, was the ugliest lanolium I've ever seen! So we ripped that stuff up and under the lanolium were a couple sheets of newspaper dated 1962.
We're finally down to the subfloor which is in really great shape considering that this house was built in 1937!
It's going to be awhile yet before we can install the hardwood flooring so we've decided to put a coat or two of paint on the subfloor to make it feel a little more comfortable. It won't cost much and it shouldn't take long to do that.
So that's where we're at with the remodel project.
As for my peacock quilt, I made a change in the rick/rack strip on the bottom left. I had 2 pieces woven together and decided to take it off and put only one piece there. Then I beaded it. I also beaded the flower lace to the right of this scan. Last but not least, I did a silk ribbon sunflower next to the peacock so it looks like he's sitting on a sunflower which you and I both know won't work because peacocks are big birds but I thought my little bit of creative license would be a fun thing to do.
I'd like to add a bunch or two of grapes in the blue patch to the left. Maybe worked with white pearl beads. Hopefully I'll have some time to add that later today.
I'm actually pretty close to completing this quilt. I still need to decide on what to do with with the seam under the peacocks tail.
More tomorrow, hopefully!
You may remember that my my living room is "L" shaped. We moved all the furniture to the short side of the living room and we've been working on the long side.
The drywall is up on the ceiling in that part, the plastering is done and there is only a little bit of sanding left in 2 corners. I have primer on the majority of that ceiling now. We just have a little bit to finish up and that phase of the ceiling project is done.
Since we have that part of the LR is sectioned off with plastic sheeting, we decided to rip up the carpeting on that side. We knew there would dust with carpet removal so it made sense to do it now.
That was fun! Once we got the carpeting up, we literally had to scrape the padding off. Under the padding, was the ugliest lanolium I've ever seen! So we ripped that stuff up and under the lanolium were a couple sheets of newspaper dated 1962.
We're finally down to the subfloor which is in really great shape considering that this house was built in 1937!
It's going to be awhile yet before we can install the hardwood flooring so we've decided to put a coat or two of paint on the subfloor to make it feel a little more comfortable. It won't cost much and it shouldn't take long to do that.
So that's where we're at with the remodel project.
As for my peacock quilt, I made a change in the rick/rack strip on the bottom left. I had 2 pieces woven together and decided to take it off and put only one piece there. Then I beaded it. I also beaded the flower lace to the right of this scan. Last but not least, I did a silk ribbon sunflower next to the peacock so it looks like he's sitting on a sunflower which you and I both know won't work because peacocks are big birds but I thought my little bit of creative license would be a fun thing to do.
I'd like to add a bunch or two of grapes in the blue patch to the left. Maybe worked with white pearl beads. Hopefully I'll have some time to add that later today.
I'm actually pretty close to completing this quilt. I still need to decide on what to do with with the seam under the peacocks tail.
More tomorrow, hopefully!
Friday, March 17, 2006
15 Inch Peacock Quilt Corner
It's been really frustrating for me not to be able to scan my stitching everyday. I really enjoy blogging and sharing my work with you, my readers.
So, I decided to try to get a corner of this quilt on the scanner without having to take it off the frame. I guess I did ok, but as you can see, the scan is a little dark. The quilt is much brighter than it looks here but at least I can show you something!
I'm thinking that I don't care for the rick/rack trim on that bottom left seam. I'm going to take that off and see what else I have. Or I might untwist it and use only a single row of the rick/rack and then embellish that with embroidery and beads.
When I complete this one, I'm going to go back to doing 9 inch quilts. At least I'll do a couple of them. I really love this frame that Scott made for me but I feel like I've been stitching on this forever! And with the Living Room project feeling like that's going on forever, I think I need some instant gratification soon!
Hopefully I'll have more to share with you tomorrow.
So, I decided to try to get a corner of this quilt on the scanner without having to take it off the frame. I guess I did ok, but as you can see, the scan is a little dark. The quilt is much brighter than it looks here but at least I can show you something!
I'm thinking that I don't care for the rick/rack trim on that bottom left seam. I'm going to take that off and see what else I have. Or I might untwist it and use only a single row of the rick/rack and then embellish that with embroidery and beads.
When I complete this one, I'm going to go back to doing 9 inch quilts. At least I'll do a couple of them. I really love this frame that Scott made for me but I feel like I've been stitching on this forever! And with the Living Room project feeling like that's going on forever, I think I need some instant gratification soon!
Hopefully I'll have more to share with you tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Trip Around The Blogs
Most of you know, I like to read my favorite blogs each morning while I drink my coffee. What a treat I had today! There's eyecandy everywhere!
First, you must visit Linda's Chloe's Place to see her latest block with a sewing theme. Wow! Linda is taking Sharon B's Crazy Quilt class over at Joggles.com so this is Linda's class block. It's so beautiful!
And speaking of Sharon B, she too is working on a new block. Another beauty here! Be sure to visit Sharon's In A Minute Ago blog for her latest piece. And be sure to scroll down just a bit to read her interesting post on "Evenweave Embroidery Techniques" where she talks about using waste canvas on Crazy Quilts.
And then, there's Pat's Gatherings blog. Pat has shared a beautiful Crazy Quilted vest today along with a purse that I have no words to describe. All I can think of is "breathtaking"!
For those of you who love to see vintage embroidered linens, take a peep at Patra's Place where Gina shares some of the latest additions to her incredible collection.
Last but not least, stop and visit Vicki's Turkey Feathers blog to see some of the cutest Easter/Spring towels I've ever seen! If you like vintage transfer designs, you'll love these. Now to find some of those pretty towels to embroider on!
First, you must visit Linda's Chloe's Place to see her latest block with a sewing theme. Wow! Linda is taking Sharon B's Crazy Quilt class over at Joggles.com so this is Linda's class block. It's so beautiful!
And speaking of Sharon B, she too is working on a new block. Another beauty here! Be sure to visit Sharon's In A Minute Ago blog for her latest piece. And be sure to scroll down just a bit to read her interesting post on "Evenweave Embroidery Techniques" where she talks about using waste canvas on Crazy Quilts.
And then, there's Pat's Gatherings blog. Pat has shared a beautiful Crazy Quilted vest today along with a purse that I have no words to describe. All I can think of is "breathtaking"!
For those of you who love to see vintage embroidered linens, take a peep at Patra's Place where Gina shares some of the latest additions to her incredible collection.
Last but not least, stop and visit Vicki's Turkey Feathers blog to see some of the cutest Easter/Spring towels I've ever seen! If you like vintage transfer designs, you'll love these. Now to find some of those pretty towels to embroider on!
St. Patrick's Day Image To Use On Cards Or Whatever
I feel bad that I can't share any stitching right now. I've been working on my 15 inch Peacock quilt and it is coming along nicely. I've decided though, that when I complete this one, I'm going to go back to 9 inch blocks for while. Not only because they work up a bit faster, but because they also fit on the scanner!
So today, I'll share a pretty little Shamrock graphic that I did this morning to use for St. Patrick's Day cards. Maybe you can use it too:
Click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr album where you can download it.
So today, I'll share a pretty little Shamrock graphic that I did this morning to use for St. Patrick's Day cards. Maybe you can use it too:
Click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr album where you can download it.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
15 Inch Peacock Quilt
I had to take this off the beautiful quilting frame that Scott made for me to tighten it up so I thought, while it was free as a bird (yes, the pun was intended) that I would scan the focal point for you.
I handpainted the peacock applique and as you can see, am in the process of beading it. I left the tail feathers unattached for the time being until I decide what I want to do with the seam beneath it.
I feel like I'm moving in slow motion on this quilt probably because I'm a bit distracted by the construction zone that I'm living in. I do try to get a few hours in every late afternoon so it does move along.
As you know, I like to repeat my fabrics and I think you can see everything I used in this scan. That small floral print throws me a bit. Not everything shows up well against it.
Time now to put it back on the quilt frame. It's a cloudy, dreary, foggy day here and I would love nothing more than to take today off and just stitch and watch movies. But I have deadlines for my x stitch design work so I'll be a good little girl and wait to work on this until later today.
I handpainted the peacock applique and as you can see, am in the process of beading it. I left the tail feathers unattached for the time being until I decide what I want to do with the seam beneath it.
I feel like I'm moving in slow motion on this quilt probably because I'm a bit distracted by the construction zone that I'm living in. I do try to get a few hours in every late afternoon so it does move along.
As you know, I like to repeat my fabrics and I think you can see everything I used in this scan. That small floral print throws me a bit. Not everything shows up well against it.
Time now to put it back on the quilt frame. It's a cloudy, dreary, foggy day here and I would love nothing more than to take today off and just stitch and watch movies. But I have deadlines for my x stitch design work so I'll be a good little girl and wait to work on this until later today.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
A Really Fun Blog!
Doing what I usually do every morning, reading my email and my favorite blogs, I came across another fun site! Kim at Dogquilters blog is a multi talented crafter/quilter/mixed media artist and she has a wonderful sense of humor! Be sure to pay her site a visit and wait for her photos to load! Yes, there's a bit of crazy quilting there too! And don't miss the darling little puppies!
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
A Peacock Feather To Embroider
I've mentioned before that I'm working on another peacock quilt. This one is 15 inches and won't fit on the scanner. I just drew up my feather again (I seem to like this on every peacock block I make) and it occured to me that my readers who do CQ's might enjoy this design as well. You should be able to click on the photo and that will take you to my Flickr album. I believe you can print it out from there.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Shamrock Heart And Other Stuff
Well, we're just about ready for the drywall on our ceiling in the main part of the living room. We just came back from picking up 6 sheets of drywall so first thing in the morning, we'll be starting to hang it. I hope it goes well. The smell of the old wood just gags me. It's a smell I will not miss!
On the stitching front, this is a pretty little St. Patrick's Day design by Sekas & Co. My aunt is so amused by my love of St. Patrick's Day, she sends me a nice little gift for the occasion every year and I really love that she does that for me. I still need to do the finishing on it. I picked up some twisted cording yesterday in a dark green and hopefully I'll have time to put it together this week. Yes, it'll be another doorknocker!
On the stitching front, this is a pretty little St. Patrick's Day design by Sekas & Co. My aunt is so amused by my love of St. Patrick's Day, she sends me a nice little gift for the occasion every year and I really love that she does that for me. I still need to do the finishing on it. I picked up some twisted cording yesterday in a dark green and hopefully I'll have time to put it together this week. Yes, it'll be another doorknocker!
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