Erin learns to Quilt

Heidi's blanket is finally finished!

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000+10:30

Happy Australia Day everyone!!

About two years ago I was pregnant and decided to make my baby a knitted blanket. Shortly after Heidi was born, I finally 'finished' it!

Problem is, weaving in all the thread ends went into the entirely too hard basket and so it was left like this for about a year!

Then yesterday...while I was escaping the 35 degree heat...I decided it was time!

It took about an hour and a heap of these...

But now the blanket is completely finished and in Heidi's wardrobe waiting for the cooler weather!

Boy it feels good to have it finished! :)

I hope everyone has a super fantastic day!

Erin :)

A walk through the garden

2012-01-24T19:08:00.000+10:30

I really want to give growing some of our own food a go this year, so over the last month and a half I have been organising raising seedlings and getting some more established plants into the ground.

Our basil is thriving - these bushes are about knee high.

And here are our first tomatos! I swear they are taking FOREVER to go red...I'm so impatient!

Were pretty excited about these. We also have radishes which are about 3 weeks from ready and lettuces, zucchini, cauliflower and leek all in the seedling stages.

Wanting to move away from commercial toys for Heidi, Mark and I decided to build Heidi a fort for Christmas. This is where having an engineer husband comes in handy! Mark designed it and then we built it together...and we are both still alive to tell the tale!

Here it is in all its glory!

Its a hit with Heidi..there is a ships wheel and a seat up the top and a sand pit underneath.

As of today it has been about a week of temperatures above 34 degrees and boy are we starting to feel it!

I hope everyone in my neck of the woods is staying cool.

Erin :)

Beginning 2012!

2012-01-13T10:35:00.002+10:30

Happy New Year! I know 2012 is going to be awesome and dare I say...productive!?

Ive decided this year to get into a lot more home made, and a lot less consuming! So, I will be blogging about that probably quite a bit as well as my quilting endeavours.

This morning I managed to get some napkins made. I want to stop using throw away napkins to reduce waste and cost.

I simply cut out a 10" square, folded the edges over roughly 1/4", then folded them over again and sewed around the edges with a decorative stitch...and wallah!!

I want to try to teach myself embroidery so the goal is to individualise them with a H on Heidi's, M on Marks and E on mine.

And here is a piccie of Heidi helping..I got up to Iron and she hopped straight up onto the chair to suss out what mummy was doing :)

I hope everyone has been getting a chance to do a little making this year, even if its something little like me :)

Happy crafting,

Erin :)

2011-12-04T15:59:00.001+10:30

I managed to get the quilt completely finished yesterday and gave it to our friend this morning. They really loved it which I was so relieved about! I'm always so nervous giving someone something I have made!

Here is the front...I love how the rough edged circles turned out!

(Inspired by this quilt)

And here is the back...I actually used another UFO front as the backing so I was extra happy to get another project out of the sewing room!

I have started on a quick project...some Christmas placemats for us to use everyday, so I should have those finished and some piccies up in the next few days. Also this week, I want to get this years Christmas Cards made ready to go out!

Happy Crafting!

Erin :)

A little sewing...a little soap making...

2011-12-01T08:17:00.001+10:30

So...a friend who is a mum of a little girl in Heidi's swimming class had another little girl 2 weeks ago. Amelia. And I thought it would be nice to make a little quilt for her.

I'm under the pump getting this one done as I want to have it ready to give to her at the next swimming class which is this Sunday.

The top is almost finished and hopefully by tomorrow afternoon it will be quilted!

Also, yesterday I came across this recipe for Goats milk, honey and oatmeal soap and I decided to give it a go. I have made this cold pressed soap before and it turned out beautifully so fingers crossed this does too.

Here it is in the 'mould' (a plastic container lined with glad wrap) setting ready to be cut into blocks this afternoon!

I hope everyone has had time to be a little crafty so far this week!

Happy crafting :)

Erin :)

Harpers quilt is finished!

2011-11-20T17:16:00.001+10:30

I love how this turned out!

The pattern is 'Flowers in the sunshine' by Sweet Janes Quilting and Design.

And I think im going to get some more of this backing fabric - its gorgeous!

Man it feels good to have a finish!

Happy crafting!

Erin :)

Theres just something relaxing about quilting...

2011-11-18T06:36:00.001+10:30

The buzzing of the sewing machine...mindlessly stippling...

Now for the binding :)

Happy crafting!

Erin :)

Making some cards...

2011-11-17T10:43:00.004+10:30

Lately I have been making a few cards...thanks to my addiction to Copic Markers!

I still have a long way to go with my coloring, but here are the fronts and insides of my cards so far...

I hope everyone is staying cool if your down my way...its 38C and sunny in Adelaide today!

I should have a quilt to show you in the next week...I just have to finish the quilting and get the binding on. It feels so good to be getting some crafty time in!

Happy Crafting!

Erin :)

One year ago today...

2011-08-08T08:00:00.014+09:30

Our baby girl was born!

I cant believe a whole year has passed!!!

But I have Loved every crazy minute of it!!!

Erin :)

Gettin' my knit on!!

2011-05-04T12:14:00.000+09:30

Ahhh...there is just something to be said about hearing the rain fall outside while sipping a cuppa tea and getting lost under a pile of yarn while knitting!

Don't worry, I haven't abandoned quilting - there is room for both to play nicely with each other in my free time!!

Before Heidi was born, I began a baby blanket and I figure if I finish it in the next month I can get some use out of it and it can be her special blanket...

So I'm gettin' my knit on and I'm determined to finish it this month!!!

Happy Sewing...and knitting :)

Erin :)

Helllooooooooo

2011-04-26T19:51:00.001+09:30

Hello Everyone! Long time, no post!!

I'll tell you what, with an 8 month old who is days away from walking, has never ending energy and wants to explore, climb and touch EVERYTHING....time passes way too quickly!!

I hope everyone had a fantastic and safe Easter - we sure did!

Here is a pic of Heidi in her pink cord 'Big Butt Baby Pants' I made for her to wear this Easter! I cut the bunnies out of felt and embroidered on their faces.

I promise to blog again soon!

Happy Sewing,

Erin :)

Febs UFO challange

2011-02-12T18:27:00.000+10:30

First...my sewing room is tiday and organised! YAY! Now I actually feel like going in there!

So, this months UFO to complete is number 10, which is my Gypsy Rose quilt. I bought this kit as one of the first things I ever bought for quilting when I got started about 2 years ago - and I still love it!

The more I look at these fabrics - the more that I think this quilt is going to be a perfect pressie for someone I know :)

Now I just need to get it finished!!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

Time to clean the sewing room?

2011-02-10T08:41:00.000+10:30

I think so!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

Some new pants for Heidi

2011-02-06T09:09:00.000+10:30

A fantastic pattern - Big Butt Baby Pants by Made By Rae

I LOVE these pants... And I LOVE that from start to finish they took me about an hour to make!

Super Cute!! The fabric is princess carriages and fairy wands which I found at Spotlight.

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

I did it!

2011-01-23T09:27:00.001+10:30

Man...it goes to show what you can do when you have no choice! I have so many UFO's that I procrastinate on, and I managed to pretty much make this whole quilt in 2 days!

Not the best pictre....but I LOVE IT!!! Its going to be hard giving it away today :(

And here it is all folded and waiting for its new owner!

I hope she likes it! My friend is giving it to her sister who had a baby girl 2 days ago!

All washed and crinkly it finishes at 40x52in.

And I have a finish for the year...and a UFO to cross off my list!!!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

Gettin' my move on!!

2011-01-21T21:46:00.001+10:30

This morning I arranged via email to drop off the finished quilt I have been making for a friend - my first commissioned quilt!

Then, after idle panic passed...at around 5pm I got out what I had done so far...

Yeah...not very much...a bit of cutting and that is all!

I got started on blocks...

And by 7ish the top was starting to take shape!

Phew! That is when I started feeling a little better!

And by 8:30 I had a baby bathed, fed and in bed asleep...and a finished top...

And back!

Sorry about the horrible night time pics!

So, that is where I have left it for tonight...I'm buggered! I'm going to relax a bit then head to bed to get ready for a basting, quilting and binding marathon tomorrow!!!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Help Please!

2011-01-07T10:26:00.001+10:30

OK, so I'm making a bit of a mini quilt with the gorgeous BLISS fabrics....

But I don't know what color thread to use to quilt it!!

What would you use?

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

A new bag!

2011-01-03T22:08:00.000+10:30

As I waited for some needed extra Bliss fabric to arrive in the mail for my UFO, I decided this morning to make some Chocolate Chip cookies...

I mean...you need energy to sew, right?

And then...with a very full belly....a bag to carry some of Heidi's things in when I don't want to have to lug around her huge nappy bag!

I will finish it off in the morning..I'm just deciding what color to use for the handles...I'm thinking a nice bright yellow!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Starting with #6

2011-01-02T14:29:00.001+10:30

So...the first UFO I am going to be working on this year is #6 - Lori's Quilt.

I'm having heart palpitations about this quilt...its for a new friend who is paying me to make it - the first time I will ever have 'sold' something I have made...

Its in one of my favorite fabric lines...

And will be a wonky log cabin style....

So far I have ZERO blocks made...but cutting out has begun!

Wish me luck!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

UFO Challenge 2011

2010-12-30T20:40:00.000+10:30

I have WAY WAY too many UFOs!

I think most people can relate to that!

So, I am going to join in Judy's 2011 UFO Challenge for some motivation and support!

I mean, I love all of these projects, shouldn't I finish them so I can use them??

So here are my UFO goals...

1. Scruffily Quilt

2. Scrappy Log Cabin

3. Happy Scrappy Houses

4. Hungry Caterpillar

5. Dr Seuss

6. Lori's Quilt

7. Sarah's Quilt

8. Quick Scruffily

9. Odyssea Quilt

10. Gypsy Rose

11. Reproduction Nine Patch

12. UFO Quilt

Wish me luck!!

Happy sewing :)

Erin :)

OK, I cant resist a pic :) We had a picnic in the botanic gardens a few days ago - taking advantage of Mark being on Leave - it was so fun! :)

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T19:11:00.000+10:30

Wishing everyone and their families a happy and safe Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

From my family to yours!

Erin :)

A headband for Heidi

2010-12-13T19:42:00.001+10:30

There is a bit of a shortage out there for baby girl headbands...so I decided to make one for Heidi myself...

And I think it looks cute!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin

Secret Santa

2010-12-03T07:48:00.000+10:30

Here is the gift I made for my partner for the Secret Santa Swap - now on its way across the ocean to my partner!

They are two snack placemats with a place for a snack and a place for a cup of tea!

And I made a little card to go with it...

I hope she likes them!!

It was my first try at applique and I am pretty happy with the result!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

And in case you wanted to know how Heidi is doing...

She is doing fantasticly!! :)

The best thing I have ever received!

2010-09-21T19:21:00.000+09:30

Look what came in the mail for me...

Made especially for me as part of DQS9 by Jess.

OH-MY-GOODNESS! How gorgeous! I almost fell off the couch when I opened it up!

I like to think that the three owls are Mark, Heidi and I - definitely spending some awake time at night!!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Its that time again...

2010-09-09T12:43:00.000+09:30

Time to set my goals for September and October, so here goes...

1. Enjoy relaxing time with my awesome family!

2. Send thank you cards out to all of my wonderful friends and family for their generous gifts..including this gorgeous quilt from a family friend.

3. I want to finish all of the blocks for my sisters scrappy trip around the world quilt...which I have told her may be a birthday pressie for her birthday next July!!

4. My father in law moves into his new house in two weeks...so I want to take the finished top and backing out of its box and finish his housewarming quilt!!

5. Cut back on computer time...I seem to spend so much time looking at blogs and getting so much inspiration for quilts that I would love to make, and then seem to have no time left to actually make anything of my own. So, I'm going to limit checking blogs etc. to once a day during one of Heidi's nap times!

So, wish me luck that I can actually tick any of these off by the end of two months!

And just cos I love her so much, here is one of Heidi to finish off this post!

Happy Sewing!!

Erin :)

Sewing together - a finish!

2010-08-23T20:30:00.000+09:30

Today Heidi and I managed to spend some of the afternoon sewing together.

And we managed to finish the little basket to go with the quilt I am sending off for Doll Quilt Swap 9! Its going off in the mail tomorrow with some Tim Tams, I hope my partner likes it :)

That means that I have managed three finishes so far for CG&G quilt club! Woo Hoo!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

My baby girl has a quilt!

2010-08-19T14:41:00.000+09:30

Thank you so much to everyone for all of your well wishes and congratulations, being home with Heidi is just the most fantastic time, especially with my husband who has 4 weeks off of work. He loves being a dad and I love being a mum!!!

Its amazing how actually having my daughter here in the world can motivate me to finish her quilt!!

I mean, trust me to finish the boy quilt completely and then only half finish the girlie one!

So, here it is...the Love U quilt all finished!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

Introducing...

2010-08-12T20:46:00.003+09:30

Adelheid (Heidi)

Born 8/8/10 (9 days after her due date) weighing in at 6 pounds 9, 52 cm long and...

Absolutely Perfect!!

Three days to go...

2010-07-27T17:08:00.000+09:30

And thats if this baby comes on time!!

So I am sorry in advance to all my blogland friends if I have been neglecting you lately or if my comments become few and far between over the next few weeks.

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Pretty mail

2010-07-12T14:37:00.000+09:30

I love receiving mail when it looks like this.

A whole heap of 1/4 yard cuts from Fresh-Squeezed Fabrics arrived today.

I wanted lots of bright pieces to cut up and use in scrap quilts - theres some Castle Peeps, Deer Valley, Early Bird and Oh Boy in there, just to name a few!

Now to make myself cut into them!!

Happy Sewing :)

Erin :)

CG&G July and August Goals

2010-07-05T17:16:00.000+09:30

Phew...so much that I want to get done...but better to aim too high rather than too low right?

So, with that in mind...

1. Have a baby! Is it cheating to make a goal that I have absolutely no choice but to complete??

Phew - is that really what I look like??? Three weeks to go!!

2. Finish my Love U quilt - at this rate if I have a girl she wont have a quilt! So - that is at the top of the list!

At the moment its about 1/4 quilted, so not too much more to do!

3. My father in law got married over the weekend and in September he and his wife are moving to their dream home they have bought in the country - so I want to finish my scruffily quilt I have been working on as a housewarming gift for them.

At the moment its packed away in a project box.

4. I want to make a little basket for my DQS9 partner from some of my Verna scraps to go along with their quilt.

5. I want to enjoy every minute of being a new mum and dad with Mark!

And I'm going to consider everything else a bonus!

Happy sewing and good luck to everyone else with their goals!

Erin :)

DQS9 is finished!

2010-07-03T12:57:00.000+09:30

Phew....I actually feel organised for once!

I have finished my quilt for DQS9 - which isn't actually due to be sent until September! But since I'm having a baby in 4 weeks and I imagine my life is going to go from busy to crazy, I thought I would get this done nice and early!

I really love it - hopefully my partner does too!

Now I have time to make a few goodies for my partner to send off with this little quilt in September - with no stress!

Happy Sewing,

Erin :)

Christmas Charm is Finished!

2010-06-28T10:23:00.000+09:30

OK, either I am 6 months too early or 6 months too late...I'm going with 6 months too early!!

I am so happy with the result! Its queen size - the first time I have tackled a quilt that big!!

And now, it is all folded up and put away ready to come out at Christmas time...which by the way is EXTREMELY hot in Australia - but I don't care - this baby will be on our bed anyway!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

DQS9

2010-06-26T10:53:00.000+09:30

I am so excited...I got into Doll Quilt Swap 9...randomly selected from hundreds of people who applied to get in!!

So...I browsed the internet, and my partners favorites on flickr, and decided on Verna for the fabric - and it arrived yesterday!!

I L.O.V.E it! Although, maybe just over 2 yards plus a charm pack was a little much - but better too much than not enough!!

I also got these two GORGEOUS fabrics (Marching Elephants Playday Fabric by SEI for Robert Kaufmann and Gnoming Around in Yellow Gnomeville by Michael Miller Fabric)

Now I'm feeling better I better get a move on - its not due until September, but I want to have this done before this baby is born!!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Im Sick :(

2010-06-17T16:48:00.001+09:30

So I've made a nice pot of chicken noodle soup, picked out some DVDs and rugged up under my Christmas quilt to work on the binding while I take it easy.

I hope that you are all happy and healthy and sewing away :)

Erin :)

Picnic Mojo is FINISHED!

2010-06-07T09:58:00.000+09:30

Woo Hoo! I have a finish - not only my first for the month, but I have realised that it is the first quilt that I have actually finished ALL YEAR!

I really love how it has turned out!

And I got to use up a heap of fabric that was sitting around in my stash not getting used in anything particular for the backing.

All washed and crinkly it measures approx. 53" Square.

And since its a bit nippy here at the moment, as I am typing this, Picnic Mojo is keeping my legs nice and warm!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

CG&G June Goals

2010-06-04T10:06:00.000+09:30

OK, since the plan next month is to have a baby (is it just me or is that sentence just crazy!!!), June has to be the month that things get finished!!

I am going to finish the binding, labeling and washing of my Christmas and Picnic Mojo quilts once and for all! (and get them off the edge of our couch!)

I am also going to baste, quilt and bind my Love U quilt...oh, and making a backing might help!

Then I will be finishing the top of my scruffily quilt and hopefully basting, quilting and binding it...

And lucky last will be piecing a new top from fabric I simply couldn't resist on sale for another girls quilt!

Phew..I better get to work!!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

My first bee!

2010-05-31T13:26:00.000+09:30

I'm so excited! It starts in July so I will load pics of the blocks as I make them!

Oh....did I say bee....I meant to say bee's!

I also joined Bee Seam Piecing Downunder which is for Aussies and should be fun!

OK, two bee's and a new baby should be plenty!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

I love the rain

2010-05-30T16:37:00.001+09:30

Something about it just makes me motivated!

Then my body reminds me that I am pregnant and cant do everything that I want to!!

31 weeks! Where did that time go? The nursery is almost all set up and everything is going along fine, but I don't think that the reality that there is actually a little person being born is going to hit until I am holding him/her! Getting a bit exciting though! :)

So, my husband is installing a new front security door and between being the tool passer and line marker, I am getting some binding down so I finally have some hand work to do in the evenings.

I hope everyone else is having some sewing fun this weekend.

Erin :)

Cracking open a fresh pre-cut

2010-05-21T11:18:00.001+09:30

With these babies quilted and reading for their binding, I decided to have a little play...

Does anyone else out there have to take an extra deep breath and half close their eyes to force themselves to pull apart a fresh layer cake, or slowly unravel a jelly roll?

Well I certainly do!

But I did it and am ready to get started on a project using a Tranquility Charm Pack, Layer Cake and Jelly Roll!

I will show you my Christmas Charm Quilt and Picnic Mojo as I get them bound, labeled and washed.

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Quilting....quilting........still quilting....

2010-05-17T13:09:00.000+09:30

I went into my sewing room today to put together a backing for my 'Love U' quilt and noticed a happy little pile of basted quilts sitting there. First was my Christmas Quilt, and then my Picnic Mojo quilt...

And I thought to myself, what a shame that I put so much time and love into making these tops, baste them and then let them sit there... So, before I even think about putting anything else together, I am going to quilt and bind these babies so I can do the hand work in the evenings in front of the TV and then actually get to enjoy some of my quilts!

Wish me luck!

Happy Sewing

Erin :)

If I have a baby girl...

2010-05-14T13:27:00.000+09:30

She will have a quilt!!

Or at least part of a flimsy...

I'm getting started on my 'Love U' quilt today.

LOVE those cute little snails and owels!

Happy sewing.

Erin :)

I have a finish!!

2010-03-29T11:01:00.001+10:30

I started working on quilting one of the quilts in my last post and got completely distracted! But I do have a real life finish for March! (I cant remember I actually finished a goal I set for CG&GQC!)

Here it is in all its glory...

Im really happy with it! Its bright and cheery and a handy lap size too (I have no idea what the actual measurements are - will let you know once its quilted and washed).

Now that I have enough pins, I am going to get this baby basted and ready to quilt. Im still a bit nervous about spray basting, does anyone out there do that rather than pinning?

Also, I ordered some fabrics for a baby girl quilt!

At the moment I have a vague idea of what I am going to do with these - just a simple charm pack with borders type layout. I just couldn't resist those cute little snails and owls!

Anyway, I had better get back to it.

And just because I think he is the most gorgeous little guy, especially when he tucks himself into our sheets to relax, here is a pic if Chip from a couple of afternoons ago.

Happy Sewing.

Erin :)

Pins

2010-03-12T11:37:00.000+10:30

I decided to do some basting today, but quickly realised I had nowhere near enough pins!

I then went looking for where they all are and I came across these...

Oh my.

So, I am going to get some quilting and finishes done before doing anything else, whether I like it or not!

Erin :)

Im going to finish it! (CG&GQC goals)

2010-03-03T19:37:00.000+10:30

OK, I have decided to make my goal for March to finish the top for my wonky log cabin!

Im really loving making this quilt and want to finish it while I am still motivated and excited about the whole project - the last thing I want is another UFO.

So, I figure, even accounting for nausia, work and tiredness, I should be able to finish this top by the end of the month with no major stressing in the process.

I have seven out of nine blocks already done!

Erin :)

Sewing MOJO returns!

2010-03-01T16:28:00.000+10:30

Slowly but surely I am getting some energy back, and with it some motivation to get sewing again!

After weeks of nausia, this morning I woke up and thought 'I want to sew today!' I cant even tell you how excited I was!

So, motivated by this quilt I started cutting into my scraps! Its going to be an all-rounder quilt for picnicks, snuggling under during trips down the coast etc.

I have three blocks done so far and am about to go work on some more :)

I have absolutely NO IDEA what I am going to do for a baby quilt! If anyone has seen any gorgeous ideas lately I would love to know about them :)

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Back with a BANG!

2010-02-05T12:35:00.000+10:30

Sorry I have been away so long!! But I promise I have a good excuse....

We are expecting our first baby at the end of July!!!

(There is its beautiful little face facing upwards on the left hand side)

I have discovered that morning sickness just doesn't go well with sewing or blogging so while not much has been going on in the sewing room, Im slowly getting some energy back and will have some projects to share soon.

Erin :)

Basting! And my hopeful Christmas finishes...

2009-11-30T12:27:00.001+10:30

I really want to finish my Christmas quilt in time for Christmas - even if it only gets to be on our bed for one night!! Basting is probably my least favorite part of quilting - especially when the quilt is as big as this one (it fits our double bed with plenty hanging over the sides!)

OK, to be fair there are probably only two main parts I dont like. First - ironing the backing and the top. I dont mind ironing, but when you are trying to handle something so big I feel like I crease it as soon as I have finished ironing it!

My second least favorite part is taping it to the floor.

I have to say, although he is completely in the way and making it impossible to baste - Chips little face always makes me feel 100 times better!

But I persevered and whalla...the quilt is based and ready to quilt!

Im of to Melbourne in a few days for a week so I had better get started on the quilting if I want to finish this in time for Christmas!

I hope you are all more organised than I am with your Christmas projects! I also want to finish two table runners and two pot holders for gifts but I only ordered the fabric a few days ago...Im hopeless! But Im optimistic none the less :)

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

BOM and a new machine!

2009-11-28T16:24:00.001+10:30

I am 25 years old. Up until now I have used my trusty old Jaome sewing machine which my parents bought me as a fantastic birthday pressie when I was 14 years old! Its been fantastic, but boy is it loud! It clanks skips stitches and basically it was time for an upgrade. My new machine is the one on the right and its fantastic! Its a Jaome DC-2010, its so quiet, it has fantatic features (who knew that a needle down feature could be so fantastic!!) and I simply LOVE it! And I definitly Love my fantastic husband who bought it for me as a pressie!!

I got my Pennsylvania Dutch BOM month one in the mail and got onto it straight away before I get a change to get behind!!

Now I just need to get up to date on my Designer Mystery BOM - Two down, four to go!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

No more nine patches!!

2009-11-06T07:10:00.000+10:30

These are my finished nine patches for the nine patch swap - all 72 of them. When I joined this swap I didnt own any repro fabric so I went to the fat quarter shop, did a search for reproduction fabrics and bought the 12 I liked most!

I really like these blocks, and I loved going outside the square and using different fabrics to what I am usually drawn to - I cant wait to receive a bunch of gorgeous blocks back!!

But man, I am so glad to be finished with making nine patches for a while!!!

Erin :)

Leaders and Enders

2009-10-21T18:17:00.003+10:30

Cutting up fabric to sew as 'leaders and enders' doesnt count as a new project does it? ;)

Pay It Forward

2009-10-20T13:12:00.000+10:30

What a fantastic idea!

I think most people have heard of this but if not the deal is this...

I am going to send a hand made gift, made by me, especially for you, to the first three people who comment that they would like to play along. I then have 365 days to send you something special so it will arrive when you least expect it!!

The catch?

To receive something from me, you need to play along too. You will need to post about it with the logo just as I have as soon as you sign up!
Please leave a comment if you would like to receive a little something from me! I cant promise that you will love it, but I will suss out your blog to get an idea of the kind of things you like!

I cant wait!!

By the way, posting OS is no issue for me so feel free to join in no matter where you live!

Erin :)

My Secret September Finish

2009-10-16T13:48:00.001+10:30

OK, I have never worked so hard to finish a quilt in my life!

I said to my husband that I would make him a Mario quilt (we are big kids at heart!), probably over a year ago. Since then, so much has happened, but I decided that I wanted to give it to him as a congratulations pressie for finishing his course (we just spent the last 10 months living in two different states and flying back and forth on weekends while Mark did training for his new job - and finally its finished!!!)

This quilt is the biggest I have made so far. Its a double, and I finished it in approx. just under 1 week!! NEVER AGAIN!!! On the week I decided to make this quilt (1 week before my husband was due home) I worked a 65 hour week at work!

I quilted in the ditch of the sqares to keep them looking pixelated and then did free motion in the border. Im happy to say that my husband flipped! He loves it! And its probably my most favorite so far just because its so soft and bright. (I love the pirate backing fabric)!

And Chip seems to like it too!

Happy Sewing

Erin :)

Im Back!

2009-10-08T08:26:00.000+10:30

What a crazy month September was! Just so much going on which I was not expecting and which kept me out of the sewing room for most of the month! Having said that I have been sewing sewing sewing for the last week, almost non stop, but I cant talk about that until next week!

My goals for October are to:
- Get COMPLETELY up to date on the gorgeous Designer Mystery BOM which I have not even started, and I want to get a start on it while there are only 4 blocks to make and not more!
- I have only made one month worth of blocks for my 9 patch swap and all 6 months are due at the beginning of November so I am also going to make all of those and post them off before the due date!

And those are my goals. I think they are nice and realistic and since things are still a little crazy around here I think its best not to over do it :)

OK, I will be back soon with some pics and photos of all the sewing I have been up to lately!!

And since a post isnt a post without a picture, here is one of Chip fresh from having a hair cut!

Happy Sewing,

Erin :)

Its here!

2009-09-25T21:59:00.000+09:30

Is there anything better then receiving a little piece of quilt heaven made specially for you in the mail?! Just look at what I got in the mail today from Des over at Taffy Talk! I dont even know what to say - isnt it just the most beautiful little quilt you have seen?!

And its double sided!! (Isnt that swirly quilting just gorgeous!!)

Thank you so so much Des - I Love it, and as I write this it is hanging on my sewing room wall right above my sewing machine!

Erin :)

Charming Girls September Goals

2009-09-02T19:17:00.000+09:30

OK, its a new month, a new season (Hello Spring!!), and a new set of goals for the Charming Girls Quilt Club.

This Month I am going to piece, quilt and get the binding on my Charmed Christmas quilt. I bought 6 charm packs of 'Its Snowing' last year with the intention of making a Christmas quilt like this one. And they have been in a pile in a project box ever since. Now, I know that I live in Australia and have no need for a quilt at Christmas time when I am normally in a pool trying to escape the heat! But it will decorate my lounge room hanging over the sofa, and there are those rare cool nights!

Next up are all of these scrappy blue log cabin blocks.

I am going to piece the top, quilt it and get the binding on!!

And, just because I seem to like to bite off just a little more than I can chew to keep me motivated. I am going to piece a Super Mario Brothers top for my husband which I cant show you any of because the fabric hasn't even arrived in the mail yet!

So, there you have it, I am going to cut out one top from scratch, piece 3 tops and finish the quilting and binding on two of them!!

Wish me luck! Im looking forward to seeing what everyone else out there in blog land will be working on in September!

Erin :)

I Love Parcels!

2009-08-29T09:14:00.000+09:30

When I got home on Friday there was a note in the door that there was a parcel at the post office waiting to be picked up! Well, as soon as 9am came this morning I was at the post office signing for my parcel, and it was my tea towel swap from the Charming Girls Quilt Club all the way from Joan in Canada!!

And Boy was I spoiled!! Not only was there the mose gorgeous tea towel apron, there was a stunning card with a picture of one of Joan's beatiful quilts on the front, a canada magnet, card holder, bookmark and some interesting information on the area she lives in! Not to mention what sounds like a delicious recipe for a rice salad! Mmm..I will definitly be giving it a go!

Of cours, I put the apron on straight away! (and haven't taken it off yet) I Love it! Thank you so much Joan!!

Now I cant wait to hear that my partner got hers!

Erin :)

Charming Girls August finishes finished!

2009-08-28T14:36:00.000+09:30

Phew, I can breathe a sigh of relief - I have finished the baby boy and girl quilts!

The girl quilt is quilted with binding on ready for the hand sewing. I didn't love it at first when I had finished the top, but now its quilted I really do..

I chose a simple checked backing..

But the boy quilt is definitely my favorite! When I finished the top I thought that it was going to be WAY to busy, but once I had it quilted I Loved the way it turned out! The boy quilt is completely finished with all the hand work on the binding done!

The backing is half and half of two different fabrics..

Its really overcast here in Adelaide today so sorry that the pics aren't fantastic - the quilts are a lot brighter and more vibrant in the real.

Its so excellent seeing all the Charming Girls listing all of their finishes! I feel so relieved now these are done knowing the when my sister in law has her baby a quilt will be ready straight away!

And while I was at it I did all the quilting on this top I finished a few months ago...don't you just love a stack of quilts?

Erin :)

Tops finished....now for the quilting!

2009-08-22T09:13:00.000+09:30

Finally both tops are finished and ready to be basted and quilted....hopefully this weekend!!! I really want to get them quilted and the binding on so I have piece of mind that I will have them finished in time since my sister in law is due in 2 weeks!

Also finished this week is my doll quilt for DQS7!

I love the way that it turned out - so bright and cheery! I hope that my partner likes it! And for the back I decided to use up some of a cute cherry print I have...

Also in the mail and on its way to Carlotta is my tea towel for the tea towel exchange for the CGQC - I'm a bit nervous since I have not made one before but I think she will like it!

Now, fingers crossed I can stay motivated and get these baby quilts done this weekend! I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and manage to fit some sewing in!

Erin :)

Tagged by the Charming Girls!

2009-08-17T11:19:00.000+09:30

1. Share your favorite quilting or sewing tip:
Never be too scared to try something new. I spent a long time admiring people free-motion quilting too nervous to try it myself because it looked so hard! Then one day my husband came home and he had bought me a the foot I needed for my sewing machine...I was still reluctant but then, literally in the middle of the night, I thought to my self - why am I so nervous, everyone was a beginner at some point - so I went into my sewing machine and gave it a go! Im still far from perfect but I am no longer daunted by the whole process!

2. Share your best tip for managing time more effectively:
I always try to leave my sewing room in some kind of working order and the project I am working on (or projects... :) ) ready to get straight into again when I finish sewing for the evening - that way if I have just 5 minutes spare I can get straight to the fun part without too much setting up, also, sometimes, if I have stuff EVERYWHERE (which is alot of the time) Im not motivated to go in the room and sew.

3. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I have been lucky enough to go to Europe twice and while I would love to go again with all my heart, I feel like I would also love to see more of my own country. So, I would probably have to say Australia!

I cant wait to read everyones answers!!

Erin :)

Getting there...getting there....

2009-08-12T20:22:00.000+09:30

OK, I am finally getting somewhere with my August finishes!

Firstly I have finished the top for my baby girl quilt:

Then there is solid progress on the blocks for the baby boy quilt...

I love the robot fabric, especially the backing fabric...

A big sorry for the terrible photos...I leave for work in the dark and come home in the dark so getting half decent photos with natural light is pretty much impossible!

I was feeling pretty panicked (especially since I also have to finish my doll quilt and tea towel for the two swaps to be sent out before the end of August....) but I am starting to feel much better about getting everything done in time...

I also thought you might like to know what I look like, so I updated my profile with a pic of me and Chip..again, sorry about the blurriness!

Erin :)

August Finishes for Charming Girls!!

2009-08-08T08:11:00.000+09:30

OK, I will load photos shortly, but my goal for August is to finish my baby girl quilt and my baby boy quilt for my sister in law who is having her baby in three weeks!!!

The girls quilt top is pretty much done, but it needs the backing pieced and then the quilting etc.

The boys quilt still does not have all the blocks made so needs the top finished and then all the quilting...

Phew...fingers crossed!!!

Erin :)

DQS7 sneak peak...

2009-07-25T10:27:00.001+09:30

Here is a sneak peak of what is in store for my swap partner...

I hope they like it!!

Erin :)

DQS7 - What I Love..

2009-07-23T10:10:00.001+09:30

OK, Im all signed up for DQS7 - I swear, this is the best swap and Im so excited!

I think I have a good plan in mind for what I am going to make (sneak peaks of that a little later) but then I was thinking it might be a good idea to do a post saying the kinds of things I like to make it easier for whoever has me.

First - I dont know anyone who sews let alone quilts (which is why I am so grateful for the awesome quilting blogging community!) so receiving anything made by someone else specially for me is just the most fantastic thing in the world - seriously - I will be totally wrapped no matter what arrives for me in the mail!

Having said that, I love bright cheery colours and anything crazy mom quilts, red pepper and the like!

But honestly, I will really love what ever I receive!! This is so exciting!

Erin :)

Its Finished!

2009-05-23T11:50:00.000+09:30

Finally, after waiting 5 months for the binding to be hand sewn down (its hard to get motivated in summer!) this baby is labeled, washed and dried! I really like how it turned out..

Its for my cousins son who was born 4 months ago...!

Erin :)

Feet warmer for my mother in law

2009-05-10T09:51:00.000+09:30

I came across this fantastic tutorial and decided to make one as a gift for my mother in law for mothers day. I cant believe how quick this was to make - literally half an hour!

With winter on it way I definitely see more of these in my future - I gave it a test run and its so nice and warm on my tootsies!!

Have a super fantastic mothers day!

Erin :)

The most beautiful little quilt in the world!

2009-05-06T09:28:00.000+09:30

Let me just say that I don't personally know anyone who sews, let alone quilts - no one in my family, none of my friends - no one. So I have never received something someone else has made for me before - until now!

Isn't this just the most beautiful little quilt in the world! Its from my DQS6 partner Terrie!!

I got this stunning quilt with the most beautiful embroidery of two yellow birds in the centre, plus a Quiltmaker magazine, some white thread and some chocolates (my mouth got to them before I took this picture!!!)

And isn't this little bird just too cute! It has a new home on the top of my sewing machine and I just love it!

Thank you so so much Terrie, this little quilt is going to hang in my sewing room above my sewing machine and cutting table, I just LOVE it!!!

I will definitely be signing up for DQS7!!

I have also joined a nine patch swap. Its using repro fabrics which I own a grand total of ZERO! But don't worry, I have that under control and a nice little package from the Fat Quarter Shop should be on its way! I have always loved repro fabrics but never found the right thing to make so this should be perfect!!!

Happy Sewing

Erin :)

One a Day

2009-05-02T14:38:00.000+09:30

I have joined Crazy Mom Quilts one a day quilt along. The goal is to make one nine patch block a day and in a few months we should all have enough blocks to make a quilt like this (but Im thinking Im going to do mine with no sashing).

Below are the blocks I did this week.

What I love about this swap is it gets you sewing every night - and once I am in there I get working on all my UFOs!

I am loving how all my blocks are coming together - I'm trying to use all of my scrap fabrics and then start on the stash - but I want to be strong and use a big variety of fabrics - 30's, bright, floral, country... Im looking forward to seeing it all come together!

Erin :)

Another swap on its way...

2009-04-26T18:21:00.000+09:30

I got lots of sewing done this weekend - and I loved it! It was that rainy stormy weather that I just love when I am snuggled inside the house nice and warm with Chip and my sewing machine :)

I got my houses finished for the Happy House Swap. These photos are terrible because of the extreme lack of sunshine!! (maybe Lurline can take better ones) but they turned out fantastic - these my favorite fabrics - bright and cheery :)

So, they are on their way to Lurline as we speak..!

Erin :)

Doll quilt is on its way - and a new BOM!

2009-04-22T07:02:00.000+09:30

Im so excited and so nervous at the same time - I have just sent off my first Dolls Quilt!!! Its for DQS6 and I really hope my partner likes it!!

Its approx 14x20in and I really love it - so cute and dainty - and bright and cheery which I was told my partner prefered. No turning back now - I just eagerly await its delivery overseas!!

I have also joined a BOM! I'm very excited as this is my first!

I was innocently sneaking in some blog reading time in my lunch break and was reading Judy's blog where I clicked on a link to Vicky's Blog where she was talking about the Designer Mystery BOM over at The Fat Quarter Shop and before I knew it I was signed up! Evil Blogland!! ;)

The fabric is Glace collection by 3 Sisters and its gorgeous!!

Now I can't wait until June for it to start!!!

Erin :)

No more new starts!

2009-03-29T10:38:00.000+10:30

I have probably about 5 UFOs which are in all different stages of being finished and I still love each of them - so I decided NO MORE NEW STARTS! I am going to finish all the ones I have going and then I can start on the million others I want to make!

That was the theory.... But then I saw this St Patty's day table runner tutorial and kept thinking how I would love a St Patty's Day quilt to use through March.

I'm actually pretty proud that I made this from start to almost finished (still hand sewing the binding down) in 2 weeks despite working 65 hour weeks!

Although I really do love it, its going to my Nan-in-law for her birthday. As soon as I showed my husband it finished the first thing he thought of was Nan and I agree - it is perfect for her. Her birthday is mid April so I will let you know how it is received - I hope she likes it!!

Now, Im being serious, I am not starting anything new!!! ;)

Erin :)

Panel quilt finished!!!

2009-03-09T21:07:00.000+10:30

I finally finished my Aunties birthday pressie (her birthday was on the 4th Feb!)

I washed and dried it last night (OK, more like 2am - but I was determined to get it done) and headed to her place this morning to give it to her.

It is the first 'proper' quilt I have ever made and given to someone else - I have made baby quilts but nothing like this. This one finishes at approx 56' square, so a small lap quilt.

I am happy to report that she loved it! And I was really happy with the result! The stippling turned out really well too.

I'm really happy with everything I got done this long weekend. When it started I had only just finished the top of my Aunties quilt and the table runner was not even started! It feels great to be able to cross something off the UFO list!

Erin :)

A table runner for Mum

2009-03-09T09:39:00.000+10:30

I came across this gorgeous table runner at the moda bake shop and I knew that my mum would love one.

I took mum to the quilt shop and she picked out her favorite charm pack (without knowing what it was for) and she chose Collections for a cause. I did not love these fabrics at first but they really came together nicely.

The table runner now has pride of place on the kitchen table and my mum loved it! I can see more of these in my future!

Erin :)

Star blocks finished!

2009-03-03T21:53:00.000+10:30

YAY! Im home!

And the first thing I did was make the star blocks for Tia's bushfire quilt appeal. (OK, no laughing, I have never made these blocks before!)

So, I will put these in the mail tomorrow!

Ahh...it feels so good to be back with my sewing machine again! I have a few other things to show you but they are gifts so will have to wait until they are received :)

Erin :)

My birthday, new fabric and the world is great!

2009-02-28T16:41:00.000+10:30

Today is my birthday! Well, kind of, I was born on the 29th but since that doesn't come around this year today it is! (I should mention its the 28th here in Aus, even though this post will probably pop up on 27th!)

It just so happened that I was in Melbourne for the AQC and it was CRAZY! The one in Adelaide definitely isn't as busy as this one - people everywhere!!!

I managed to pick up some fantastic buys!!

First there are these charm packs, I want to make this stacked coins quilt for my sister in laws baby...

I really want to build up my novelty prints as I have lots of kids quilts to make in the future so I picked up these FQ's and I couldn't resist these cowboy prints...aren't they too cute!!!

Next I got these beauties, I have seen them in some beautiful red and aqua quilts and couldn't resist....

And here are a mix of some others, these are fabrics which I have found myself needing lately but are missing from my stash (I know, I know, I'm just trying to justify it...but if I could convince myself....)

I have been a very very spoiled girl this birthday - my fantastic husband looked around the museum while I took my time and took in all the stalls!!! What more could a girl ask for!

I'm home in a few days, and I cant wait because I am really missing my sewing machine, I know..I'm sad!!

Erin :)

Doll Quilt Swap 6

2009-02-27T22:15:00.000+10:30

I got in!!!

I signed up for the Doll Quilt Swap and got in!!! Woo hoo!! Its my first swap of this kind and I cant wait to get started. I will know who my partner is next week and then I can get sewing!

I'm so excited to make something for someone else and meet more fantastic quilters over the wonderful web!

Happy sewing

Erin :)

Bushfire quilt appeals

2009-02-22T11:58:00.000+10:30

I just came across Tia's blog about her Bushfire Quilt Appeal and cant wait to make some blocks for such an important and fantastic initiative.

I think that most everyone knows about the tragedy in Victoria and our thoughts and hearts are with all those effected, but its great to be able to do something practical for people which will mean so much!

I am in Melbourne at the moment for work but when I return home next week I will be working on these blocks and nothing else so I can have them all sent off ASAP.

Please take a look at the flickr group which has all the information - every block helps.

I also came across this blog by Tracey. I have a heap of these blocks in my UFO pile which I have put off sewing together in to a top which I am going to send as soon as I am back in Adelaide!

Thank you so much to Tracey and Tia for putting together such a fantastic project, the devastation in these towns is horrible and its great to see so many quilters banding together to help!

Erin :)

Top finished

2009-02-15T10:13:00.001+10:30

I have been working on this top for a while. It is a free pattern available from Judy Laquidara's site and its called Daisy Star.

I Love it. I was unsure at first about my decision to use the same leafy fabric for the whole quilt but I think it has come together nicely. It is for my Auntie and Uncle in-law. They live almost completely self-sufficiently in Rural VIC (thank goodness they have not been effected by the bushfires) and Mark and I are going to visit them next month and I wanted to give this to them as a gift.

I hope they like it.

And a big thank-you to Judy for making such beautiful patterns available for free online!

It feels so good to have another UFO almost finished and out of my sewing room!

Erin :)

A Panel Quilt and new fabric!

2009-01-27T18:33:00.000+10:30

I love getting home from work and seeing a big envelope in the letterbox waiting for me...infact I pretty much love getting mail in general...but my new fabric arrived today!

I ordered the below Moda Urban Couture fat quarters from Provincial Patch for an absolute bargain! I plan on making whirlygiggle blocks from this tutorail. I Love this fabric!

Also, it is my Aunties birthday in 2 weeks and my mum spotted this panel in the LQS and thought it would be perfect. I have never made a panel quilt before but its coming together nicely and best of all quickly given the timeframe! Not really my tastes but I think my auntie, an avid gardener is going to love it.

Hopefully I can post pictures of my Aunties finished quilt soon, and I have 2 WIP's to finish before I can start my Whirlygiggle blocks!!!

Happy Sewing!

Erin :)

Stippling and a finished quilt!

2009-01-22T08:57:00.000+10:30

Ok, lets start at the beginning. I have been wanting to learn how to do meander quilting for so long but because I am a big chicken ive just stuck with in the ditch quilting because its 'safe' and that is what I am comfortable with.

Monday night my husband comes home with a pressie for me...

Its a darning foot for my sewing machine!!!

So, I got started right away and made a mini-sandwich to practice on. But because I was so excted and partly because I wanted to get right into it before I got all nervouse, I decided to make Chip (our beautiful Jack Russell X Maltese) a quilt for lazing on.

I picked out some fabric and cut out a heap of 3.5" squares and sewed away. I didnt lay them out first or anything, just completely random. Once I finished the top I decided that while I was trying new things I would try a pieced back - completely inspired by all of AmandaJeans quilts!

I made the top, back, and basted the whole thing that same night! (Chip supervised)

Then Tuesday night I did my stippling. (I watched AmandaJeans Free Motion Quilting Tutorial three times, took a deep breath and gave it a shot!) I still have a long way to go but I am SO happy with the result!!! While I was at it I decided to try making binding from all the scraps, and sewed it on.

Yesterday I hand stitched the binding, threw it in the washer and dryer and now I know what everyone is talking about when they say they love the crinkley old feeling of a freshly washed and dried quilt!

Here is the finised result..

I am so pleased with how it turned out! Now I am extra motivated to finish all my UFO's just so I can stipple them. And I think the key was just jumping in and doing it because now Im not nervous at all!!

Erin :)

Update - almost done!

2009-01-12T08:52:00.000+10:30

OK, I didnt quite get them finished over the weekend but I thought that I would post a picture of my progress on the one which is furthest along.

They are adorable dolls houses using this tutorial.

I will post final pictures hopefully tonight or tomorrow!!

Erin :)

Weekend Project

2009-01-10T15:26:00.000+10:30

Hi,

OK, this year I am going to be WAY better at keeping my blog up to date!

This morning I went and bought some supplies for a project I am making this weekend for Judy's Quiltathon. Although not technically a quilt, it is sewing so I think its OK :)

The main reason I am posing them is to motivate me to really try to get them done!

First I bought some felt...

Then some beautiful fabrics....

And then finally some buttons, ribbon etc. to make them all fancy...

I also got some blue towling material but it didn't photograph very well. I don't know if I will use all of this stuff but I'm sure most of it will make its way into my project. I will post the finished product tomorrow!!

Erin :)

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T20:23:00.000+10:30

Merry Christmas!

I hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday with your families and loved ones!

Erin :)

Crazy Week

2008-12-14T15:00:00.000+10:30

Geepers, doesn't time just go so quickly! I cant believe that its almost a week until Christmas! And I only have 1 week of work until I get 1 glorious week off!

I went to my LQS yesterday to get the rest of the fabric I needed for my cousins baby quilt. Its still a good 4 months until the baby is born but I want to finish it so I know its done and can get back to the other things I am working on.

Of course I couldn't resist getting myself a little something while I was there...
These are a lot more pastel than I would normally be drawn to but because I have so many brighter fabrics I need something to break it up a bit.

I haven't been feeling 100% for the past week so a lot of my free time this weekend has been spent sneaking in a nap or 2 but I have finished all of the blocks for my cousins quilt and after I get home this evening from a family dinner I hope to sew the top together...I will post a picture once I finish quilting the top!

(Excuse the terrible picture!!)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Erin :)

Delivery!

2008-12-09T19:04:00.000+10:30

Is there a better feeling in the world than receiving mail? When we pulled up the driveway this afternoon and I saw a parcel leaning against the front door I was so excited I practically jumped out the door while the car was still moving!

And behold the parcel in all its glory!

Now, I have NEVER ordered anything from the Internet before and I was starting to get nervous but the people at The Quilt Shoppe were so fantastic and made the whole thing a breeze! And the fabric was way cheaper than I could get it here in Australia.

Inspired by this quilt of Amandajean's I bought these 'Its Snowing' charm packs by Deb Strain for moda.

Then I was thinking that I might have a go at doing a pieced backing and got a yard of each of the below prints from the same range and will decide once I have the top together...

I'm so excited to get started! Now all I need is some spare time to fit in some sewing!! (Is this a crazy time of year or what?!) I will post some pictures once I get the layout right. I have an update on the baby quilt I am making with the car fabric I posted earlier in the week which I will take some pics of and post soon too.

One last picture for tonight...the package was presented so nicely I didn't want to open it!

Now I just have to resist the temptation to order more fabric now I know how easy it is to have such fantastic fabrics delivered right to my door!! Or at least until I have crossed a minimum of 2 UFO's off my list.

Erin :)

New Fabric !

2008-12-06T21:43:00.000+10:30

Today my husband and I went into the City to get a start on our Christmas shopping...we certainly made a dent but we may have got a little side-tracked along the way. We came home with a Wii game console for Mark (my husband). Its pretty fun really! And we stopped past the local quilt shop on the way home and I got some fantastic goodies...

These are for the stash - I am building up a collection of nice blue prints for a 'beachy' blue quilt I want to make eventually for someone...

These are the three different prints but there are actually a good 20 strips, all different widths, of them...

Now this is probably my favorite buy for the day. My cousin is having a baby boy in a few months and loves bright bold colours. I'm thinking of something similar to my last baby quilt but maybe less wonky. Just plain framed squares because I want the focus to more on the fabric than the pattern of the blocks.

All of this fabric is just so fantastic and unfortunately my camera doesn't catch the colours as vibrantly as they are in the real.

I'm off to wash, dry and fondle my new fabrics!!!

Erin :)

'in between' quilt taking over...

2008-12-04T10:13:00.000+10:30

Last night I really made a dent in the 'Happy Scrappy Houses' quilt from over at quiltville.com If anyone is looking for a fun, quick quilt then this is one you should try.

(I don't have a design wall so a sheet on the floor has to do!)

I'm trying to make it as scrappy as possible and sometimes have to take a deep breath and make myself sew what seems to be the most mismatched fabrics together. But every time I finish a house I love the way the mismatched fabric makes the house come together!

This originally started as an 'in between' quilt, something to work on as a break between other projects but now it has taken over! Its just so fun seeing the houses come together! Then all I have to do is add the sashing and quilt.

I will let you know how it goes and post the final product...

Erin :)

My First Post

2008-12-02T09:41:00.000+10:30

Hello out there!

I read so many fantastic posts that I am hesitant to begin my own..but because I like to leave comments on other posts, and I need a link to my own to do so, I thought I might put up some bits and pieces.

I made this quilt a few weeks ago for a friend who just had a baby boy. Its the first time I have made a quilt without a formal pattern (this is only my third quilt!) and im happy with how it turned out. It is also the first time I have made a quilt to give someone else...so nerve racking!

Now im working on 'Happy Scrappy Houses' from Quiltville.com which is coming together nicely. I will post some pics when Im further along.