I freshened it up for you and updated links and images - enjoy!
Glue Basting is a game changer and is one of my favorite sewing and quilting tools. It helps me with efficiency and accuracy when I sew, which makes me happier with my results. Most of the time, when I mention glue basting to new quilters, or to experienced quilters who are new to me, I see confused looks come over their faces. But, they change their tunes really fast when they see what can be done with glue basting and how much it can improve their results.
It's Quilt Block Mania time! This month's theme is "Drinks" and your designers have 27 refreshing quilt block designs for you! Yes, you read that right: 27 designs and they're all free for the month of March 2024. From tea to lemonade to champagne, there's something for everyone.
I'm a child of the 70's and 80's so it probably goes without saying that I grew up with cabinets full of Tupperware. As a kid, I loved (like super loved) the coordinated color combinations of bowls, cups, and containers. My cousins and I hosted the best Kool-Aid parties and felt like real grown-ups pouring Mountain Berry Punch and lemonade from the classic Tupperware Pitcher. Those were the days, right?
These happy memories inspired me to design a Tupperware Pitcher with a quilty twist for my Drinks themed quilt block. I love how it turned out! I hope it sparks some happy memories for you too. I also included a few fun color variations for you: Pink Lemonade, Orange Juice, and Cherry Kool-Aid.
The Tupperware Pitcher Quilt Block is perfect intermediate quilters who are looking to fine-tune and build their piecing skills. It features Stitch & Flip corners and traditional piecing techniques. It's a scrap-friendly block, too!
Minimum Fabric Requirements:
for (1) 12"x12" finished quilt block:
The Tupperware Pitcher Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of March, so you can combine blocks into a fabulous quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (Scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns).
Get your free download of the Tupperware Pitcher Quilt block by signing up for my newsletter below. A few minutes after you sign up, you'll receive an email with the link to download the pattern. If you signed up for one of my Quilt Block Mania patterns in the past, the pattern will be automatically emailed to you - no need to sign up again. Check your email inbox for a newsletter from me with the subject line "FREE March Quilt Block". A link to download the pattern will be in the newsletter.
Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Quilt Block Mania Designers:
Champagne Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Martini by Crafty Staci
You Shake Me Up
Scrappy Mug by Katie Mae Quilts
Pina Colada by Appliques Quilts and More
Cosmopolitan by Inquiring Quilter
Cups and Saucers
Bubble Tea by Inflorescence Designs
Beer Pong by Patti's Patchwork
Perfect Flying Geese
Bear Loves Cocoa by Colette Belt Designs
Coffee Bean by Sewistry
Sip & Stitch by Happy Hour Stitches
I'm a LIttle Teapot
Bit too Much by Epida Studio
Tupperware Pitcher by Cristy Fincher
Ice Cubes by Create with Claudia
Cherry by Slightly Biased Quilts
Tea for Me by Craftapalooza Designs
French Press by Oh Kaye Quilting
Sew Fresh FPP Block by San Diego Sewn
Cheerwine by Emerald Falls Quilts
Release the Kraken by Art Quilts by Design
But First Coffee by Paleofish Designs
Margarita by Sallys Sewing Circle
Iced Lemonade by Patchwork Breeze
I had a few set-backs while I was working on my blog post for this month's pattern which is why it looks a little sparse at the moment. I'll have it all fixed up in a little while. In the meantime, you can go ahead and sign up below to get your copy of the pattern. Please pop back over here soon to find out more about this fun block!
Scroll down for links to all of this month's Quilt Block Mania designers!
Gear Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Hammer by Patchwork Breeze
Canning Jars by Crafty Staci
Rotary Cutter by Katie Mae
Cricut Maker by Appliques Quilts and More
Spool and Bobbins by Inquiring Quilter
Music Maker by Scrapdash
Variegated Thread by EvaPaige Quilt Designs
Pretty Spools by Sew Worthy Mama
Pottery by Inflorescence Designs
Quilt Maker by QuiltFabrication
Maker block by Patti's Patchwork
Heart Hand by Brown Bird Designs
Quilting Bear by Colette Belt Designs
My Favorite Things by Robin Kinley Designs, Etc.
Cross Stitch Block by Slightly Biased Quilts
Paint Palette by Tourmaline & Thyme Quilts
Sewing Friends by Epida Studio
Make My Mark by Cristy Fincher
I Love to Make quilt block by Victoria Peat
Rainbow Glimmers by Craftapalooza Designs
Sweetgrass Basket by Emerald Falls Quilts
Maker Block: Sewing Machine by Oh Kaye Quilting
Pincushion by Flowerdog+Co
Painters Tools FPP by Amanda Harris
I'm really excited to be a part of Quilt Block Mania again. January's theme is Party and the timing is perfect! It's the start of a brand new year, and it's both my and my daughter's birthday month - yay 🎉!
Do you enjoy fireworks? I love watching fireworks, especially at Disneyland. No matter how old I get, they're awe-inspiring. My favorite fireworks are the ones that seem to disappear then reappear, exploding into sparkling glitter. And the colors!! I love them all, especially pink & purple. Fireworks were the inspiration for my block, creatively named Fireworks.
I designed Fireworks to look like it's exploding with the brightest color in the center and the darkest color on the edges. It's a perfect design to make with Ombre fabrics, a fabric collection, or from scraps. There are so many color combo possibilities!
The Fireworks quilt block is a traditionally pieced block with half square triangles (HSTs) and Stitch N Flip units which makes it a fun block for fine-tuning and building your piecing skills. Be sure to check out this awesome tutorial on how to nest and spin your seams. It will come in really handy for your Fireworks block.
The Fireworks Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of January 2024, so you can combine blocks into a fabulous quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (Scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns). After January 2024, my pattern will be available to purchase as a download in my shop for $6.
Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Check out the other Party-themed blocks from the Quilt Block Mania Designers:
Party Crown Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Party Bear by Colette Belt Designs
Folded Napkins by Patchwork Breeze
Confetti Horn by Crafty Staci
Celebrate Letters by Tamarinis
Ballons & Streamers by Appliques Quilts and More
Happy New Year by Inquiring Quilter
Fiesta Block by Ships & Violins
Sparkler by Inflorescence
Gift Boxes by QuiltFabrication
Party Glam by Patti's Patchwork
Cheers by Robin Kinley Designs
Free Disco Ball Block @ Slightly Biased Quilts
Cake by tourmaline Thyme Quilts
Fireworks by Cristy Fincher
Pinata by Flowerdog+Co
Dressed for the Occasion by Epida Studio
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
Happy Quilting,
Cristy
Quilt Block Mania - December 2022
]]>Corner Star is my own fun twist on the traditional Ohio Star quilt block. This variation is perfect to make out of Ombre fabrics, a curated fabric collection, or from your scrappy scraps. I love the look of Corner Star in Magenta Ombre. Scroll down to see a few different color variations.
The Corner Star Quilt Block is ideal for fine-tuning and building your piecing skills. It includes Quarter Square Triangle blocks (QSTs) and a 4-patch block. Be sure to check out last month's awesome tutorial on how to nest and spin your seams. It will come in really handy for the Corner Star pattern.
The Corner Star Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of December, so you can combine blocks into a fabulous quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (Scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns).
Get your free download of the Corner Star Quilt block by signing up for my newsletter in the form below. A few minutes after you sign up, you'll receive an email with the link to download the pattern. If you signed up for one of my Quilt Block Mania patterns in the past, check your email inbox for a newsletter from me with the subject line "FREE December Quilt Block". A link to download the pattern will be in the newsletter.
Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Quilt Block Mania Designers:
Barn Star Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Barn by QuiltFabrication
Independence Block
Sunflower Barn Block by Sugar Sand Quilts
Prairie Winds Block by Martha Jane Creations
Amish Star Block at Fab Fabric Girl
Squash Blossom Block by Paleofish Designs
Celtic Knot at Patti's Patchwork
Maple Leaves by Inquiring Quilter
Goose in the Pond by Tamarinis
Dutchman's Puzzle Quilt Block at Bonjour Quilts
Corner Star Block
Star of Hope Barn Block by Quiltblox
Meadow Flower by Inflorescence
Bright Star by Blue Bear Quilts
Bear Paw Block by BoBerry Design Co.
June's Pinwheel Block and Quilt by Sew Worthy Mama
Tudor Rose block by Flowerdog Designs
Lucky Clover Block by Patchwork Breeze
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
Happy Quilting,
Cristy
(Scroll on down to skip right to the Nesting & Spinning Seams tutorial.)
A new month means new blocks from the Quilt Block Mania designers! This month is all about camping, which is near and dear to my heart. From the time they could walk, all three of my kiddos have spent their summers camping with my in-laws. Their camping days are filled with quad rides, hiking, building forts, mending fences, and climbing trees. They spend the nights roasting marshmallows, playing card games, and enjoying the night sky (SO many stars!).
Each summer, my in-laws escape the heat and set up camp near Greens Peak in the White Mountains of Eastern Arizona. The weather is just about perfect with warm days and cool nights (a huge relief compared to where we live). The forests are dense with trees then open up to immense, lush meadows. My fond memories of walking through these meadows with my kids was the inspiration for my block: Blooming Meadow.
The Blooming Meadow Quilt Block is a perfect block for skill building and fine tuning your piecing skills. The block is filled with classic 9-patch flower blocks in two different sizes. I used fabric colors that reminded me of the meadows near Greens Peak, and they would be lovely in any of your favorite colors. I put together a tutorial on nesting & spinning seams as a BONUS - yay! Scroll down and level up your piecing skills!
To make my Blooming Meadow quilt block, I used Teal V & Co. Ombre fabric for the background. The flowers are made from PURE Solids by Art Gallery Fabrics in Purple Pansy, Sweet Pink, Purple Wine, Very Berry, Wisteria, and Canary. The pattern allows for a lot of variety so you can make one that looks like your favorite meadow or garden.
The Blooming Meadow Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of November, so you can combine blocks to put together your own camping-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns). After November, my pattern will be available to purchase as a download in my shop for $6.
BONUS Tutorial: Nesting & Spinning Seams
Want to learn more? Take a look at my video tutorial on YouTube
This is my go-to technique anytime I piece a quilt block (or a whole quilt) because it reduces bulk at seam intersections and it makes the whole quilt much stronger. Quilting over the seams is a breeze when there's less bulk, too.
1. After sewing the individual rows of squares together for the flower block, glue baste two together with a fine line of glue (you don't need much). Glue basting is magic!! I'm using our MicroFine Glue Tips and Elmer's Washable School Glue as my basting glue. Align the rows, right sides together, making sure to nest the seams.
Note: the seams of the rows of squares should be pressed in alternating directions.
2. Heat set the glue with a hot, dry iron (the glue won't be gummy at all!). Then sew the rows together (I'm using a scant 1/4" seam allowance). Yep, sew right through the intersections - no stopping!
3. Set the seam with your iron (this prevents ripples along the seam line). Then open up the intersection on the back. Release any glue and/or any stitches to allow the seam allowance to open at the intersection.
4. Use your iron to flatten the intersection. Then press the seams in alternating directions, making the seams "spin" like a windmill. I recommend pressing from the front to help catch any folds along the seam line.
5. Repeat each step to join the third row of the flower block. Sew the row, open the seam intersection, press it flat, then finish pressing the block from the front. Use a light spray of starch as needed to coax the block into laying flat.
6. Look at those intersections!! The back is almost as pretty at the front of the block. Give this a try and let me know how it works for you. If you already love this technique, leave a comment to let others know how amazing it is.
Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Bug Jar Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Tent for Two by QuiltFabrication
Forest Tree by Scrapdash
Canoe Lady by Sugar Sand Quilt Co.
Campfire Nights Block by Belle of Seams Sew Me
Gone Fishing by Paleofish Designs
Canoe Lake by Patti's Patchwork
Vintage Camper by Inquiring Quilter
Sleeping Bags by Appliques Quilts and More
Camp Sign at Patchwork Breeze
Blooming Meadow Quilt Block
S'mores by Quiltblox
Marshmallows by Inflorescence
Billy Tea by Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Compass by Blue Bear Quilts
Scout Badge by BoBerry Design Co.
Looking for honey by Martha Jane Creations
Night Camper by Jessica of Blue Sky Modern Craft
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
Happy Quilting,
Cristy
It's time for a new month of Quilt Block Mania! October is all about the farm. If we lived on a farm, my daughter Nora would have a herd of guinea pigs! She has three, which is plenty. They truly are adorable and have such fun personalities.
Nora & Irie
A guinea pig design was an unconventional choice for me, considering that they aren't your traditional farm animal. When I start working on a design for Quilt Block Mania, I always ask my kids for their ideas (like last month's block). Nora came up with the idea for a guinea pig quilt block and I thought it would be so much fun, and really cute (it is!).
Fun fact: guinea pigs do live on some farms and are most often utilized for their amazing ability to clear farmland of weeds and other vegetation.
Nora loves her guinea pigs and refers to them as her babies. Irie, Frida, and Theodosia are two years old now, and live in an amazing enclosure that Nora and I constructed together - it's the size of a twin bed! Taking care of them is a huge responsibility and I'm incredibly proud of Nora for her hard work and dedication. It's not the traditional farm life, but she's learning similar, important life lessons just on a much, much smaller scale.
The amazing guinea pig enclosure!
Frida
Theodosia - aka Ziggy
The Guinea Pig Quilt Block builds on the skills in my previous Quilt Block Mania patterns. This one includes the added challenge of a Drunkard's Path, or quarter circle block. There are many wonderful ways to sew a curved seam. My favorite technique for curved seams is Piec-lique. Here's a video to show you how:
To make my Guinea Pig quilt block, I used V & Co. Ombre fabrics in Hot Pink, Persimmon, Sand, and Taupe plus a little Onyx Ombre Fairy Dust for the eyes. The pattern allows for a lot of variety so you can make one that looks like your favorite guinea pig. I made mine to look like Theodosia and will turn it into a throw pillow for Nora's bed.
The Guinea Pig Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of October, so you can combine blocks to put together your own farm-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns). After October, my pattern will be available to purchase as a download in my shop for $6.
Plus! Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Tulip Farm Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Rooster Sunrise by QuiltFabrication
Farmers Daughter Quilt Block
This Little Piggy by Sugar Sand Quilts
Duck Duck Goose
Horse Play at Patti's Patchwork
How I Roll by Inquiring Quilter
Sunshine by Tamarinis
The Quilting Room
Windmill at Patchwork Breeze
Guinea Pig Quilt Block by Cristy Fincher
My Red Barn by Quiltblox
Summer Peach by Inflorescence
Red Beets by Blue Bear Quilts
Cow Block by BoBerry Design Co.
Scarecrow quilt block by Flowerdog Designs
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
Happy Quilting,
Cristy
It's time for a new month of Quilt Block Mania! September is all about occupations. I have three kids (12, 15, and 17) who are in various stages of figure out what they want to be when they grow up. Molly, my 15 year old is making plans to go to college to be a lawyer. She has been doing research on college majors and the various fields in the world of law (there are SO many). I hope she keeps dreaming big and working toward making her dreams a reality. I know that her persistence will keep her moving toward her goals.
In honor of Molly's future occupation, I've designed a "Scales of Justice" quilt block. Molly chose the colors and fabrics to represent the obligation of the law to weigh both sides of a case.
The Scales of Justice Quilt Block builds on the skills in my previous Quilt Block Mania patterns. This block doesn't have any intersecting seams which makes it easier than it looks. The block includes half rectangle triangles which makes it great for skill builting.
To make my Scales of Justice block, I used Ombre Galaxy fabrics in Honey, Graphite Grey, and Navy.
Update for 2024: Moda discontinued the majority of the colors in the Ombre Galaxy fabric collection, including Honey and Graphite Grey. I recommend Honey Ombre Confetti and Putty Ombre Galaxy instead. Navy Ombre Galaxy is still available.
Yardage Info:
• 1/2 yd Honey Ombre Confetti makes (4) 12" x 12" finished blocks
• 1/2 yd Putty Ombre Galaxy makes (6) 12" x 12" finished blocks
• 1/2 yd
Navy Ombre Galaxy makes (6) 12" x 12" finished blocks
Minimum Fabric Requirements:
for (1) 12"x12" finished quilt block:
• (1) fat quarter - Honey Ombre Confetti
• (1) fat eighth - Putty Ombre Galaxy
• (1) fat eighth - Navy Ombre Galaxy
The Scales of Justice Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of September 2022, so you can combine blocks to put together your own occupation-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns). After September 2022, my pattern will be available to purchase as a download in my shop for $6.
Plus! Be sure to join the Quilt Block Mania Facebook Group for inspiration and to share your own blocks.
Here are the rest of the occupation-themed blocks from the amazing Quilt Block Mania designers:
Cars Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Stethoscope by QuiltFabrication
Scales of Justice Quilt Block by Purple Dasies
The Tooth Fairy by Scrapdash
Farmer's Market by Sugar Sand Quilt Co.
Firefighter Block by BoBerry Design Co.
My Hero by Inquiring Quilter
Teacher at Sew Joy Creations
Chef by Appliques Quilts and More
Eighth Notes by The Quilting Room with Mel
Podcaster Mic at Patchwork Breeze
Makeup Artist by Inflorescence
Mathematician by duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Cook's Tools by Blue Bear Quilts
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
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The Quilt Block Mania blocks for August are all about the Jungle. Cute monkeys, sweet bananas, giant hippos, and colorful toucans were swirling around in my imagination while I was working out an idea for my quilt block. I decided to go with a toucan and I'm really happy that I did. I love how the design turned out and I think you'll enjoy making your own!
(8/7/22 Pattern correction: The Onyx piece in the Toucan Eye Unit step #8 should read as 1 1/4" x 1 1/4", NOT 1 3/4" x 1 3/4". The cutting instructions are correct. Downloads and purchases of this pattern after 8/7/22 include the correction.))
The Yes Toucan! Quilt Block builds on the skills in my Pumpkin Quilt Block and Toy Wagon Quilt Block patterns. If you haven't made either block yet, both are available in my shop as a downloadable pattern.
The Yes Toucan! Quilt Block is an intermediate block due to smaller pieces used in the design. The piecing is pretty typical with only straight seams (no curves, Y-seams, or foundation piecing). The only exception is the Toucan's eye where you'll use your favorite applique technique.
The Yes Toucan! Quilt Block, along with the other QBM blocks, measure 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each block is FREE during the month of August 2022, so you can combine blocks to put together your own Jungle-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns). After August, my patterns will be available to purchase as a download in my shop for $6.
I also put together a Jungle-Themed fabric bundle that coordinates with this month's color scheme. It's perfect for making your own coordinating blocks from any of this month's designers, or an upcoming project. It's available to purchase in my shop, too.
My husband is really great at naming things and he loves puns. All credit goes to him for naming the block Yes Toucan!
Here are the rest of the Jungle-themed blocks from the amazing Quilt Block Mania designers:
Hippo Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Emerald Tree Boa from Inflorescence
Tiger at Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Snakes, Slugs and Snails at Scrapdash
Stacked jungle animals by Appliques Quilts and More
Palm Leaf by QuiltFabrication
Margaritaville by Inquiring Quilter
Chameleon Block by BoBerry Design Co.
Monkey Business at Patti's Patckwork
Tropical Bloom
Jungle Vines
Toucan Quilt Block by Purple Daisies Quilting
Teal Gorilla by Blue Bear Quilts
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
]]>Update 12/17/21: Due to the unexpected upcoming closure of CourseCraft, I will be moving my class to Thinkific. Don't worry! I'm taking my students with me too. Moving and setting up my class with Thinkific will take a little bit of time, so I'm postponing the start of class until January 20, 2022. The move should be pretty seamless and I will stay in touch with you along the way. Feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions.
Enrollment continues to be open and secure.
Love Machine Class will launch on January 20, 2022 in the new Thinkific online classroom. New lessons will be made available weekly.
My new online class featuring my Love Machine pattern is now available! Come join me!
I'm thrilled to finally share my first online class with you! The Love Machine class is self-paced, plus I'll sprinkle in a couple of live Q&A sessions via Zoom along the way as well.
Join before January 6th at the Early Bird price of $50. (Regular price is $65)
Class starts January 20, 2022.
Take a look at what's included in the class:
(Note: The pattern is not included. If you don't own it, you can add it on when you enroll. If you already own it, you won't be charged for a second pattern. Win-win!)
When you sign-up, there's an option to add-on a pattern and/or a V & Co. Ombre Fabric Kit to your enrollment (if you don't already have them).
I also have the pattern and V & Co Ombre fabric kit available in the shop for you. If you buy the pattern/kit in the shop, be sure to sign-up for the class separately
Visit the Love Machine class information page to learn more about what's included in the class and to sign-up!
Happy Quilting!
~Cristy
It's time for December's Quilt Block Mania! This month's theme is Toys - so fun! I had quite a few ideas, but this cute little wagon won me over. It builds on the skills in my Pumpkin Quilt Block pattern, so I'm sure you'll be all set to make one of your own. If you haven't made the Pumpkin Quilt Block yet, it's available in my shop as a downloadable pattern.
The Toy Wagon Quilt Block is more of an intermediate block, simply because there are smaller pieces. The pattern will definitely give more experienced quilters the chance to show off their piecing skills. The block measures 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each of the blocks in the series are the same size, so you can combine blocks to put together your own toy-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns)
To make this block, I used a variety of Ombre fabrics by V & Co. from Moda: Original Ombre, Ombre Fairy Dust, and Ombre Wovens. You can certainly use any fabrics that you have, but if you want to make your own with V & Co. Ombre fabrics, I put together a little Toy Wagon Fabric Bundle that you can buy separately. The kit includes enough fabric to make 4 complete blocks.
I also put together a fabric bundle inspired by December's Quilt Block Mania color scheme. The colors are so fun and vibrant. Use it to make your own coordinating blocks from this month's designers, or for any upcoming project.
Check out the blocks from these amazing designers:
Puzzle Cube Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Swirlybirds by Scrapdash
Rocking Horse by Appliques Quilts and More
Old-fashioned toy by Blockofthemo.com
Wooden Toy Blocks by Penny Spool Quilts
Xylophone by QuiltFabrication
Stacked Rings at Patti's Patchwork
Toy Truck at Blue Bear Quilts
Bullseye at Pretty Piney Quilts
Toy Plane by Mom and Me Quilting Co
Nutcracker by Inquiring Quilter
Water Colors at Perkins Dry Goods
How to Theread a Book by Craft Towards Joy
Sling Shot by Faith and Fabric
Candyland at EvaPaige Quilt Designs
Shape Sorter Block at Patchwork Breeze
Colorku at Love to Color My World
Toy Wagon by Cristy Fincher
Baboushka dolls by Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Baseball by Masterpiece Quilting
*My own designs for Quilt Block Mania will be free during the month that they were designed for. When the next month's pattern is released, the previous one will be available to purchase in my shop.
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Have you heard of Quilt Block Mania? If not, you're in for a treat! It's a monthly collaboration of an amazing group of quilt pattern designers where each one creates a new, FREE* (yes, FREE) pattern based on a monthly theme and color scheme. At the beginning of each month, each designer shares their block along with where you can find the rest of the blocks in the series. It's a wonderful opportunity for you to discover new designers and to try different techniques. Enjoy!
This month's theme is Food. For me, November equals pumpkins so I pulled out my graph paper and started sketching. I came up with this sweet, plump pumpkin and had such fun sewing it together. I think you'll love it too. It's beginner/intermediate friendly and gives more experienced quilters the chance to fine tune their piecing skills. The block measures 12.5"x12.5", unfinished. Each of the blocks in the series are the same size, so you can combine blocks to put together your own food-themed quilt or pick and choose your favorites. (scroll down for the list of designers and links to their patterns)
I used fabrics from the Ombre Fairy Dust collection by V & Co. from Moda to make my Pumpkin block. You can certainly use any fabrics that you have, but if you want to make your own with V & Co. Ombre fabrics, I put together a little Pumpkin Fabric Kit that you can buy separately. You can also choose your favorite ombre collection: Ombre Fairy Dust (my choice!), original Ombre, and Ombre Confetti.
I also put together a fabric bundle inspired by November's Quilt Block Mania color scheme. The colors are gorgeous and rich. Use it to make your own coordinating blocks from this month's designers, or for any upcoming project. You can use the same discount code to save 10% on this bundle. Enter the code PumpkinBlock at checkout.
Check out the blocks from these amazing designers:
Hot Dog Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Corn off the Cob Quilt Block at Scrapdash
Pumpkin Pie by Appliques Quilts and More
Ice Cream Cones by QuiltFabrication
Citrus Wedges by Patti's Patchwork
Peppers at Blue Bear Quilts
Pineapple at Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Strawberry by Mom and Me Quilting Co.
Home for the Holidays by Inquiring Quilter
Red Delicious at Perkins Dry Goods
Pumpkin Quilt Block
Little Lemons by Love Sew Modern
Sew the Carrots Go Round Block at Patchwork Breeze
Cake Quilt Block at Masterpiece Quilting
Avocado at EvaPaige Quilt Designs
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The new Ombre Wovens from V & Co. are coming this July! They're available in 16 gorgeous colors:
Hot Pink, Cherry, Tangerine, Honey, Lime Green, Teal, Aqua, Turquoise, Indigo, Aubergine, Violet, Magenta, Black, Graphite Grey, Silver, and Ivory
Yes, they ARE woven! They are so SOFT and are a dream work with.
To create the omber effect, the stripes change thickness in from selvage to selvage.
The stripes can create a really classy and subtle effect for many quilt designs. They can also be used along with other Ombre collections. I think they will look amazing with the Ombre Bloom collection.
Vanessa Christensen of V & Co. is also releasing some beautiful new patterns to go with the Ombre Woven Stripes fabric collection. They're available individually, or as a quilt kit.
PLUS!! If you want a quilt kit, you can even choose to include the new 108" Ombre Confetti quilt backing fabric.
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I've been looking for some smaller projects to work on during my down time while staying home. I'm sure that I could simply look around my work room and rediscover a project that I haven't finished yet, but what's the fun in that? haha! A fun tote bag or a mini quilt are great projects for keeping your creativity flowing, plus they can make wonderful gift for those we love or those we want to honor. These patterns and projects are in stock and ready to ship out to you:
Ombre Geometric Tote by V and Co.: (no longer available)
Pattern: $10 Kits Available too!: $53.45
Take a look at more new patterns and projects {here}.
Oh wait!!! I almost forgot about the cutest little zipper pouch - it's adorable and will hold all sorts of wonderful quilting tools and supplies.
Opposites Attract Zipper Pouch: $9.90
Happy Quilting,
~Cristy
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Edited 4/29/20:
My mini class on Curved Piecing is now available to watch on YouTube. Enjoy!
As you're watching, please keep in mind that this video was recorded from a livestream and you will hear me troubleshooting camera angles and sound as we work to figure things out. Also, there is conversation happening because some people watching live asked questions that I answer while filming. I have many other videos on my YouTube channel that are more rehearsed and fine-tuned if this style doesn't suit you.
🥰Hi Everyone!! Join me (Cristy😁) Thursday at 10am PDT for my second Mini Class on Facebook Live!!
🤩I'll introduce to to my favorite technique for sewing curved seams:
Piec-lique (piece-li-kay).
It's fun, simple, and can be used to make virtually any curved seam. 🧵During the mini-class, I'll go over the basic steps for using Piec-lique to create and sew a circle, a Drunkard's Path block, and a custom curvy shape.
🌟Piec-lique was developed by my ingenious mom, Sharon Schamber and was first introduced to quilters in her book:
Piec-lique - Curves the New Way in 2005 (out of print).
🧵Please share with your friends and invite them to join us.
See you Thursday!
Here's a link to my Facebook page and the live video: https://www.facebook.com/PurpleDaisiesQuilting/live/
To join in, be sure to "Like" my page to be sure that you're notified when my video starts. There is also a post about the mini class with a "Get Reminder" button that you can click on to be reminded when the class starts.
I'm so excited to connect with you and to share some wonderful quilting tips and tricks! Come with questions!!
If you aren't on FaceBook, don't worry!! After the mini-class is over, I will upload the video to my YouTube channel where you'll be able to view it.
HELLO!!!!
It's been so long since I've posted on my blog. I'm sure it's been feeling quite lonely and neglected. I have a lot of fantastic things in the works for 2018, and plan to use my blog to share them with you. I hope you'll come back soon, and be sure to sign up for my newsletter to find out when I add something new.
I have something super fun to share with you! I have always loved hand piecing and hand embroidery. When there's a chance to combine the two, my heart leaps for joy. A few years ago, my mom, the amazing Sharon Schamber, and I were playing with sewing some hexagons for English Paper Piecing with embroidery floss. We thought that maybe the whipstitch would look prettier with the floss. We discovered that sewing the hexagons from the front with the floss looked UH-MAZE-ING!!
I recently started on a new English Paper Piecing project and felt it really needed a little extra "sparkle", so I pulled out some of my favorite colors of Soie Perlee (like perle cotton, but made with gorgeous silk) and started sewing them together from the front with a combo of a whipstitch and a blanket stitch. Let me tell you - it looks fantastic! And it's a lot of fun ;).
I posted a picture on Instagram and Facebook and asked if anyone would be interested in a video tutorial. The feedback that you all gave me was an overwhelming YES. So, without further ado, here's my video showing you how to use hand embroidery for English Paper Piecing (scroll down a bit for the video). I've also listed the supplies I used with links where you can find them in my store.
Hand Embroidered English Paper Piecing Supplies:
Hand Embroidered English Paper Piecing Video:
Happy Sewing!!
Lots of Love,
~Cristy
Hi Everyone!!
We're so excited to share our brand new monthly club: Silk Society Stash.
Our new monthly club was created to inspire you and share our love of hand-dyed fabrics, silk thread, and applique. Join us today!
Each month, a gorgeous bundle of fabric, specially dyed by Master Quilter, Sharon Schamber, and a stunning collection of silk threads will be delivered right to your door. It's truly stash building at its very best!
But, it's even more than just fabric and thread! We're also going to share new instructional videos featuring methods and techniques for creating with the fabrics and threads.
Sharon dyes the 100% cotton fabric, by hand, using her very own method. Sharon's fabrics are highly sought after for their rich, vibrant colors as well as their amazing texture. They are perfect for any type of quilt making. Sharon dyes in small batches, which means that each bundle is entirely one-of-a-kind. *Membership spaces are limited; sign up TODAY!
Sharon has personally selected the 100% silk threads which are manufactured to the highest standard in France, by Au Ver a Soie (Soie means "silk" in French). The threads are stunning and delightful to work with, whether by hand or machine. We know you're going to love them!
Plus, you'll enjoy a brand new instructional video each month. Each video will build your applique and hand embroidery skills, while learning various methods and techniques for creating with Sharon's hand-dyed fabrics, and each type of silk thread. This is an invaluable resource, and is included with each Silk Society Stash option!
One of our biggest goals for the Silk Society Stash is to support you as you build your stash of these gorgeous fabrics and threads. Like a lot of quilters, we love adding to our stashes. We want to go a step further and give you the resources you need to use your stashes in creative and meaningful ways. To do this, each month Sharon will be filming new instructional videos that will give you tips, tricks and techniques for using the fabrics for applique, as well as other techniques. You'll also learn how to use the various types of silk threads and discover their versatility in both machine applique and hand embroidery/embellishment. And the video is provided to ALL members.
When you receive your monthly Silk Society package and joyfully open your gorgeous bundle of fabric and stunning collection of silk threads, you'll be captivated by their rich and glorious colors. You may not want to stop touching them. Sharon's hand-dyed fabrics are famous for their soft, supple texture and they'll give new life to your quilting. The 100% silk threads gleam with beauty and are a pleasure to work with, whether by machine or by hand. This is truly a special monthly club, and we can't wait for you to join us!
The Silk Society Stash options (each includes the online instructional video):
2017 Monthly Collections:
We are really looking forward to being a part of the Silk Society Stash with you!
Happy Quilting,
Cristy & Sharon
Subscription Details:
**The full price, plus shipping, will be charged at the time of your order, and your bundle will be shipped on the 27th of the month. You will be automatically charged for the following month's bundle on the 27th of that month. For example, if you sign up on March 26th, you will receive the bundle for March, which will ship on March 27th. If you sign up on March 28th, you will receive the bundle for April, which will ship on April 27th. Questions? Please email me.
**Sharon Schamber hand-dyes all of the fabric in small batches. Bundles will be sold until we are out of fabric. At this time, Sharon is not able to redye previous bundles.
**You can cancel at any time directly through your store account. Be sure to create an account when you order, that way you'll have access to your Silk Society Stash order, as well as any orders you place in the store.
We are really looking forward to being a part of the Silk Society Stash with you!
Happy Quilting,
Cristy & Sharon
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Image by Cristy Fincher |
I am over the moon excited to share my newest quilt pattern with you:
This pattern has been over a year in the making, and it's finally ready for YOU!
Designing it has been fun, challenging, exciting and educational. The alternating squares twist and weave throughout the quilt, giving it a truly unique look. The color options are endless! I've included two sizes for you: a 53" lap quilt and a 21.5" mini quilt. But you don't have to stop there! You can easily add or remove blocks to make a quilt that's all you.
The quilt pattern includes coloring pages to help you plan your design and flow of colors. It also includes a simple color coding system to help you keep organized so that your colors end up exactly where you want them.
The detailed pictures and graphic illustrations will walk you through the instructions, step-by-step. Your piecing skills will grow and "glow" as you learn to make half rectangle triangles and learn tips and tricks to help reduce bulky seams.
As a special bonus, I've included paper piecing templates for you! If "traditional" piecing isn't your thing, but you enjoy paper piecing, then the Paper Piecing Add-on will be perfect for you!
Glow Stick is now available in my shop. You can order it as a Printed Booklet with a download of the Paper Piecing Add-on PDF, or as a download of both in PDF format.
I hope you have a lot of fun making your own Glow Stick Quilt. Share your progress on social media with the hashtag #GlowStickQuilt!
Happy Quilting,
~Cristy
August is here, which means it's back-to-school time for us in Arizona. My kiddos started school last week. They were really excited to start the new year and see all of their friends. Summer break was challenging and wonderful all at the same time. Running a business from home is hard when all three kids have FUN as their top priority. And we did have a lot of fun. I must be honest, though. I'm happy to have some uninterrupted work (and cleaning - because I have to do that, too) time back in my daily schedule.
I think it's time for a tutorial! I really love sharing my love of quilting and sewing with all of you. It's so amazing that I can reach and teach so many quilters by just typing, adding pictures and clicking "Publish". I hope you enjoy learning! Well, here we go!
Nesting and spinning seams (which may be called something different by another quilter) is my absolute favorite way to reduce the bulk at the intersection of multiple seams. It's very useful, and pretty dang cool, too. It's one of those things that gives me such a sense of satisfaction. The process is quite simple, but will take a bit of practice and thought when you're just starting out. Bookmark, pin or share this post so that you always have it handy! Plus, I have a video on YouTube called Spinning Seams, if you prefer.
Step 1:
I'm making a little 4-patch block to demo how to nest and spin and intersection of 4 seams. Layout your blocks and draw a fine line of glue on the inside of the seam allowance of your first block, about 1/8" from the edge. I'm using our MicroFine Glue Tips and Elmer's Washable School Glue as my basting glue.
Step 2:
Do the same for the second row of blocks. With right sides together, align the second block of each row on to the first.
Heat-set with a hot, dry iron.
Step 3:
Optional - mark a dot at the 1/4" spot at the beginning and end of where your seam will be.
Step 4:
Start sewing at that 1/4" mark. This is where sewing may not feel as speedy at your regular ol' chain piecing. I promise with all of my heart that this step is completely worth the extra few seconds it will take. (I'm sewing a scant 1/4" seam with 50wt cotton thread from DMC and Schmetz Machine Embroidery Needles, size 75/11.)
Take 1-2 stitches, then back-stitch. If your machine has a "lock-stitch" feature, feel free to use it at the start of the seam.
Step 5:
Stop sewing and back-stitch or lock-stitch at the 1/4" mark at the end of the seam. Do not sew off of the edge. Leaving this 1/4" opening will allow the seam to open when it's sewn to the next row.
Repeat for the second row of blocks. You can chain piece your rows by lifting up your needle and foot to sew the second row.
Step 6:
Set your seam. Oh my quilting friends, I cannot tell you how important setting your seams is (maybe that needs its own blog post). Have you ever gotten those pesky little ripples at your seam after pressing to the side? Try setting your seam first! You may find that you have little to no ripples after pressing to the side. It's amazing!
Press to the dark side (or to the side that you prefer). Be sure that the seams of the top and bottom rows alternate directions, like right/left, etc.
Step 7:
Glue baste the rows together by drawing a fine line of glue along the edge of one row.
With right sides together, align the rows and nest the seams. Heat set (don't forget that part). Big tip here: ALWAYS align a row from the center and/or intersecting seam to the outside edges. By doing this, you'll ensure that your seams intersect, even if you end up a little short in the seam allowance. Shortages can be absorbed in the seam allowance, and from the front you'll never know, plus your points will match ;).
Step 8:
Start sewing at a 1/4" down from the top, especially if you might be adding on to your block. Back-stitch or lock-stitch just like before.
Sew straight through any intersections. Stopping is NOT necessary. Continue sewing to the 1/4" mark at the end of the seam. Back-stitch or lock-stitch.
Step 9:
Now it's time for the magic! Open the intersection of the seam by guiding the sections of the seam to go in opposite directions. One side will go up, and one will go down. All of the seams will spin like a pinwheel around the intersection. Isn't is fantastic?!
If the intersection doesn't open easily, there might be a bit of glue holding it together. Simply release it by pulling the seams apart with your fingers and you'll be good to go.
Step 10:
Press your seams nice and flat with a bit of starch or steam. Just look at that intersection! I'm in love!
And here's what it looks like from the back - so pretty!!
I hope that you'll give this a try and practice it a few times. This method will make the backs of your quilts look fantastic, it makes your seams strong and it makes quilting your quilt (hello, stitch in the ditch!) so much easier. Plus, the satisfaction and pride that you'll have in your work will be so much greater (at least I hope).
Not every seam can be nested and spun. As you create blocks and quilts, you'll begin to discover when this method will come in handy for you. Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments!
You have to take a look at this amazing quilt called Big Bang Quilt by Mister Domestic. He blogged about his process and how he used my Spinning Seams video on YouTube to help him piece his blocks together. His quilt is not to be missed!
Happy Quilting!
~Cristy
Quilting is not only my business, but it's my hobby. I crave it. I love cutting up fabric and sewing it back together again. I am a maker. I'm also a teacher, and I'm passionate about designing patterns and teaching all of you tips and tricks that keep you inspired to cut up fabric, sew it back together again, and just keep making.
I'm not alone in my passion. There are many makers like me that are passionate about teaching and sharing. Many of us love to share fun projects and free tutorials on our blogs, despite the time and preparation involved, because each of you appreciate and learn from them. Unfortunately, offering everything for free isn't sustainable for any of us. Over the years, bloggers have helped rejuvenate the quilting and sewing industry (in addition to many other crafts) with valuable content. Many of us have revived or discovered our love of quilting through amazing bloggers like Amy Smart, Lee Heinrich and Jeni Baker. Through the internet, we've also been able to learn from quilting masters like Sharon Schamber, Alex Anderson, Sue Nickels and Bonnie K Hunter, all from the comfort of our home.
Somewhere along the way, we've gotten use to getting way too much for free. And now "the balance between what we expect for free and what we are willing to purchase" is a bit, well, unbalanced. Free tutorials are great, but shouldn't they be a treat? Like the cherry on top? I think so. I strive to stay teachable. Learning new tips, tricks and techniques is so much fun for me, which is one reason why I love buying patterns from independent designers. I know how much time, effort, cost and heart goes into creating an independent pattern. Whether or not we sell a million, we put the same amount of love and passion into our designs - our only hope is that they inspire and motivate you to make.
Lindsey at LR Stitched created the May is for Makers campaign to support independent designers who infuse creativity, inspiration and institutional knowledge into our craft. Through the campaign, Lindsey is pledging to buy a new pattern from a different independent designer each week during the month of May. I'm joining in, and I hope you will too. With each purchase, we are collectively telling the designer that their work matters. We are also validating all of the time and effort that they put into their brand. No candle ever went out from lighting another. Let's share our light and love! As Lee Heinrich of Freshly Pieced says so perfectly, "Consider buying a pattern as a way of saying thank you for a free tutorial you learned from, or a free pattern that you especially loved—after all, that free tutorial or pattern was probably only made possible by that designer's paid patterns." (Thank you Lee!)
Each Friday I will purchase a new pattern from a different designer and will share it on social media with the hashtag #mayisformakers. I hope you'll join in and share the pattern that you chose by tagging your post on Instagram or Facebook with the same hashtag.
Happy Quilting!!
~Cristy
A while back I was working on a mini quilt, and the backing tucked under as I was quilting it, and I stitched right over backing. Not once, but twice. Ugh! I know we've all made mistakes like this, but can be so frustrating and feel almost impossible to to fix without undoing your hard work. While I was fixing my little "boo-boo", I took some pictures so I could share a few of my tips and tricks for fixing quilting mistakes like this.
Here is my first mistake in all of it's glory. If you look closely at the left hand side, you'll see that the backing folded and tucked under twice. I did a really good job with this one, haha.
I had already done quite a bit of quilting, so I really didn't want to "unquilt" my quilt and have to quilt it again. I always make my backing 4"-6" bigger than my quilt top, which gave me some forgiveness and allowed me to cut the fabric away rather than pull out my stitches.
First, I cut the backing very close to the stitches. Be very careful not to cut your stitches. Using scissors with a short blade and a blunt tip like these from Famore Cutlery help quite a lot.
Cut the fabric away from each line of quilting. Cut closely to the stitching, without cutting through it.
Use your fingers to pull the fibers of the fabric away from the quilting.
Snip your fabric as needed to release it from the stitches. Cutting the fabric close to the quilting will allow it to pull away quite easily.
In this picture, you can really see what a fantastic job I did making this mistake ;). Keep snipping the fabric away while being careful not to cut your stitches.
Almost there!! I kind of like pulling the fabric away from the quilting. It's satisfying, like pulling weeds. I hate to get out there and pull the weeds, but when I pull one out, root and all, it feels so good!
Just a snip or two left!
YES!!!!
Next, clean it up and pull away any fibers of the backing from the stitches.
It's all finished and looks so much better. The best part is that I didn't have to remove a single stitch of my quilting.
I hope this helps you if you ever find yourself needing to fix a quilting mistake.
If you do need a seam ripper to do some "unquilting", Seam Fix is my favorite brand and I carry some in the store.
Happy Quilting,
~Cristy
At the start of 2014, I chose a word to help guide me and give me focus: Important (you can read more about it here). I had been doubting my work and the importance of my contributions to the quilting industry. Seeing myself, my choices and the world through the lens of "importance" was empowering. I began to truly see that what I do is important to others and that hiding my importance isn't a sign of modesty, but a sign of not believing in myself. I made small shifts in my perspective, and they began to add up. I had an article published in Machine Quilter's Unlimited (July 2014), I sought out and was presented with many new teaching opportunities, and I filmed my class with Craftsy. It was a wonderful year.
In 2015, I didn't choose a word. Instead, I created a Vision Board, with the kind guidance of Carrie Bloomston. My Vision Board is on my wall, above my computer where it provides daily inspiration and reminds me of who I am and what's most important in my world. It makes me smile too - how can you not smile with Mickey, Goofy and Minnie smiling right at you?
Last year was one of the hardest of my life. I'm looking forward to 2016 as a continuation of the work that I began doing in 2014 - discovering and uncovering who I am, and what empowers each aspect of my life to flourish. As a lot of us do, I was doing quite a bit of reflecting during the holidays. I began to think less of what happened and more of what I want to have happen. One word summed it up: Thrive.
When my friend Mandy told me about the One Little Word class by Ali Edwards, I was compelled to sign up. One Little Word is a year long project to explore, craft, invite and connect with your chosen word. I'm really excited to be a part of Ali's class, and even more excited to have it as a part of of my life. And I'm looking forward to sharing what I discover with you.
Since I've chosen thrive as my word, I've already begun to look at my world through the lens of "Thrive". I've been asking myself a lot of hard questions about what it means to me to thrive, and if what I'm choosing to do (or not to do) is supportive of me thriving. All of this led me to an "Ah-ha" moment. I was working on business "stuff" like emails, packing/shipping orders, and accounting all the while I was getting really down on myself about the state of my home. It was untidy and recovering from the holidays, with many new toys not put away, the sink was full of dishes, and loads of laundry to wash and fold. I began to get down on myself about everything that needed to be done which led me to feeling guilty about doing my work. Later that week, I was cleaning the house, and looked into my studio and immediately began to remind myself of all of the work I needed to finish, which led me to feel guilty about taking care of my home. Oh my gosh! There it was, like a slap in the face! I wasn't letting myself win. I wasn't allowing myself to thrive. I'm not quite sure how I will change this bad habit, but I know that I must. It's not helping me feel good about my work or home, and it's preventing me from being a good mom and wife. Have you ever felt this way? How did you overcome it?
This journey will be interesting, and I'm welcoming it with open arms. I have some work to do. I'm sure there will be hard moments, but it will be worth it.
Have you ever chosen a word for the year? Do you have a word for this year? I'd love to hear what your word is and how you're making it a part of your world.
Lots of love and happy quilting!
~Cristy
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I am not a world traveller. I've had many dreams of jetsetting around the world and visiting places like Greece, Rome and France. In high school and college, I studied French and came quite close to taking a magical trip to Paris. In college, I filled general education requirements with as many non-western civilation classes that my schedule would allow. Classical art, architecture and literature inspired and intrigued me. I found myself always wanting to know more about the stories of those that created such works. For one semester, I even considered changing my major to anthropology or archeology. Even though I didn't change my magor, my deep love for classical art and architecture remain.
Wanderlust Quilts by Amanda Leins reignited my love for the beauty and ingenuity classic art and architecture and how design principles like proportion and balance influence us all today. Amanda (whom I lovingly call Mandy) is a classically trained archeologist turned artist and quilter. In her book, she expertly translates her work with classical designs into fresh and exciting designs for quilters to create and enjoy. Plus, she passes on her technical knowledge as she guides quilters through each beautiful project. As a quilter and teacher, I know you'll enjoy and appreciate Mandy's attention to detail in her clear and thoughtful instructions.
Wanderlust Quilts is a not-to-be-missed. Through any of Mandy's inspiring 10 projects, you'll learn techniques and tips that will help you uncover the depth of your own quilting skills. You'll find techniques for joining Y-seams, turned-edge applique, improv quilting and much more. Mandy also includes wonderful images of the art and architecture that inspired her designs and shows how she translated them into her designs.
One of my favorite projects from Wanderlust Quilts is Aquaducts. The bright colors and the various scale of the arches bring this piece of ingenuity to life in a whole new way.
While I haven't traveled to far off lands, I do find inspiration from places that are very special to me. There are many, and you might find me taking random pictures of the floors, walls or small details that inspire my quilting. One of my favorite places is Disneyland. Besides being The Happiest Place on Earth, it is inspiring and has clearly been inspired by patterns, art and architecture from our collective past. For Mandy's blog hop, she asked that we incorporate her book in a picture of a place or quilt that inspires us. It may be no surprise that I chose the center of the Disneyland, where each magial land awaits you. From the simple herringbone design in the bricks, to the details of Sleeping Beauty's castle, it's clear that classical design has and always will guide and inspire us all. (photo note: all photos of Disneyland were taken by me)
This image of Sleeping Beauty's castle is perfection to me. The colors (aqua, pink and gray) make my heart smile. The shapes in the brick, and the scrolling iron on the castle wall are inspiring. I see so many ways to use the patterns and designs to create unique quilts and quilting designs.
It's a Small World is full of inspiration from the simple patterns and shapes, to the incorporation of subtle and bright color.
As I was looking for pictures to share with you, I found this one of Molly and Aaron as they prepare to battle Darth Vader in the Jedi Training Academy. The wall just beyond the sign for the Jedi Training Academy is a fabulous inspiration for a quilt! I think I need to pull out my graph paper and pencils and get to sketching! Plus that floor!! The floor is a quilt just waiting to happen.
I'd love to know what place, near or far, that inspires you. C&T and Stash Books, the publisher of Wanderlust Quilts, is giving away a copy to a lucky winner at each stop on the blog hop. To enter to win here, leave a comment telling me about a place that inspires you. I can't wait to hear about each one! Entries will end at midnight November 18th. I'll choose a winner on November 19th.
Be sure to visit all of the stops. Each one is inspiring!
November 2: Kickoff with Maddie Kertay at Bad Ass Quilters Society (official link available now!)
Mandy's podcast interview with Sandi of Crafty Planner (official link available now!)
November 3: Stephanie Palmer the Late Night Quilter
November 4: Christa Watson of Christa Quilts
November 5: Gen Q
November 6: Casey York Designs
November 7: Bill Volckening
November 8: Angela Walters
November 9: Kitty Wilkin, the Night Quilter
November 10: Lynn Harris of the Little Red Hen - you are here!
November 11: Latifah Saafir Studios
November 12: Rose Hughes
November 13: Rossie Hutchison of Rossie Crafts
November 14: Sam Hunter of Hunter’s Design Studio
November 15: Cristy Fincher of Purple Daisies Quilting
November 16: Wrap-up with Mandy Leins
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Happy Quilting!!
~Cristy
Enjoy the rest of the Back to School Blog Hop:
Take a look at this amazing schedule:
Sept 1: Peta Minerof-Bartos of PetaQuilts – So, Does that Diagonal Method for a Pieced Backing Really Work
Sept 2: Cheryl Sleboda of Muppin.com – The Quilter’s Knot