Furball Farm

Weekend activities.

2012-01-30T22:21:00.000+10:00

Linda's third quilt.She really has come a long way.....................her skills improving with every quilt she completes. I'm lucky that she lets me do as I please......... so that means feathers!

The front of the quilt. I added a small curved crosshatching in the smaller squares. The larger squares I set out a swirling square feather to spread out into the corners.

Pity the back isn't on display. I like the way the quilting design shows up on the back of the quilts.

For me, it's a gamble to be doing custom quilting when the backing fabric is a solid. It tends to show up all of the backtracking on feathers and any other little bumps in my quilting.

Using the thinner threads, ........... So Fine on the top, and bottom line thread on the bottom helps prevent the thread build up. I think it looks okay, I've still lots of improving to do.

January happenings

2012-01-20T10:52:00.000+10:00

Well I had planned to do some much needed "catching up" on quilting during January, but the best laid plans can go astray. Whilst I've been waiting for a machine part to arrive, I've pulled out some of my UFO's. 2012 is going to be the Year of completing my UFO's and I've promised myself to not start on anything new.
I'm a fan of Scrappy quilts.......... so I thought a half square triangle quilt would put a dent into my stash. Here's a peek of it laid out. Cassy, can you spot the mistake???

A little closer, and shuffling of pieces makes the world of difference.

My dresden. This has been finished for some time, but I've been tracking down that "just right" fabric for the border.

I found it!!!

A beautiful fabric range, by Free Spirit. Did you know that the colour for 2012 is tangerine??

And after much nagging (from Cassy.......LOL,) The string quilt. I had originally wanted this for the lounge, and thought the 3 blocks (3 x 5) would be fine. I pieced the borders, originally the aqua colour, but I just wasn't.........happy with the way it looked and sat. So much unpicking, and now more blocks to make.

A closer look for Cassy............. she's making the same quilt, and I'm not around to show her the how/why/where's, ............ this electronic age is wonderful to keep in contact with family, and proving to be helpful for us to spur each other along with our quilting. I've decided to go with a different colour for the border.......... but that's a way to go!!

I still love my curved cross hatching. I never tire of seeing it in quilting.

Take care
Judy

String Quilt

2011-12-28T12:19:00.000+10:00

Cassy, just letting you know that even though I'm waiting for the part for the Longarm, I'm not wasting time sitting on my backside.

I'm going to call this one Citrus Delight. I've "seperated" the 12 1/2" blocks so you can see individual blocks.

I'm thinking I will go with this layout, but you know me, it can change as I make up more blocks.

Remember when I said about the interfacing? Cut out your 13" square, those drawn pencil lines are 4" wide, ............... now you just add your scrappy piece of fabric to the interfacing, starting in the middle, and work your way out to the ends. Don't get caught up in measuring sizes, or straightening the fabric.

I'm squaring this one up. The finished size is 12 1/2".

See what I mean about the differing scrap fabric dimensions? Some of mine have been as little as a 1/4" wide, and some up to 2". I like the look of the narrower strips though, but I work with the scraps I've collected over time.

The lines don't even have to be straight!! I really enjoyed doing this one Cassy, as the instructor reinforced to the participants time and time again to just "whack the fabrics on, don't stress about the accuracy of the lines. It all comes together nicely when it's squared up".

I think she was right. When your time poor, grabbing those 10 minutes here and there and being able to recall what stage your up to, then this is an ideal scrap buster quilt for you to do.
Do you think you can manage this one Cassy???

PS: Sewing machine doctor can't make it until the end of the month. I think I've killed a China man, maybe a bus load. Oh well, it's all character building stuff, and I'm learning..........constantly. Keep the end of March/early April open. We can make it to the Australian Quilt Convention on the 14th.
Cheers me dear, love ya.
Judy

Last minute gifts

2011-12-21T21:13:00.000+10:00

Oh boy, no time for custom quilting in the month of December I've discovered!! I've had some e-2-e quilts to complete for some lucky people, and I'm pleased with the way they have turned out. Denise's beautiful Labyrinth quilt, really came up nicely.

This is one of those quilts that you could spend a lot of time doing extensive custom quilting on it, and not really being able to see the beautiful workmanship (in good lighting it shows up nicely). However, using a nicely spaced e-2-e design can be just as effective.

See???.......... the swirls match in with the cream background fabric.

Denise cut back down on the very wide borders of this pre cut pattern kit, and I have to say I like the balance she has given the entire quilt.

The original borders were very wide, and minimised the centre block. I think Denise chose wisely, and it turned out very nice.

Christina's quilt............ wow, this young lady designed the pattern herself, making it an "original" in my books.

I like the fabric selection............... the yellow looks amazing.

A great use of the left over fabrics, pieced and placed in the middle of the backing fabric.

How good does this look???

Two quilts in one!!! I love the back just as much as the front.

Kerry-Anne has made three of these Marine themed quilts. All for the young men in her family.

The fleur de lys in the fabric, and the same fleur de lys as the quilting.

How cute is the pillow sham???

Nice work Kerry-Anne, I think they turned out great.

Ho, Ho, Ho................... please Santa, get it right!!!

2011-12-17T17:06:00.000+10:00

This past week saw some High Humidity in our neck of the woods. What that means to me.......... is to quickly spring clean, making sure there is nothing on the floor in the studio. The high humidity causes me to focus on protecting the fabric and wadding.

See those floor tiles? Well last Christmas they looked like a sheen of water ........ causing me to slip and slide around the longarm. I've invested in a large dehumidifier so as the problem can be better managed this year. Fingers crossed I don't have to spend days washing wadding and fabrics, hanging out rugs, and bleaching the walls.

Now for some quilting. More pics to post soon.

Inspiration

2011-12-05T18:33:00.000+10:00

Earlier this year I attended at Sharon Schamber's two day workshop. Day one was " Designing a quilt", which I found very enlightening. Participants design a quilt,.....sounds simple right? Not so simple for this little black plump duck!!!!, as Sharon had us design it all out on graph paper so as we would understand sizing, appropriate placement etc. etc. One thing I was able to take away from the workshop was the inspiration various designers use during this process. Lots of books with architecture details, graphic arts, and historical ornaments can be the motivation for many a talented designer.

Great covers, you could make up a quilt easily, just by utilising the images from the covers of these books. I've been collecting my "Dover" publications for some time now, so it was great to see how to transfer these various images into a personal quilt design. I've been haunting the local library, and delighted to see they have various Dover Publications available to members. So lots of photo copies have been made, and I have made a promise to myself to design a quilt from scratch - next year. (cough, cough). Oh well, I can make a plan............

I can see a nice border with this one. (There's nothing wrong with having plans!!!........... I just have to lock myself away for a year to be able to find the time to do the things I would love to quilt!!)

I also wanted to show you how wadding can make a difference to the appearance of a quilt.

This quilt (above pic), the client used a Cotton wadding. The e-2-e design is ALFRESCO, from Lorien Quilting. (how talented is that lady ........ and she's an AUSSIE!)

Okay, the same e-2-e design.

However, the client preferred a puffy, old fashioned look, and opted for the high loft cotton/poly blend (Matilda's). Can you see the thickness of the wadding in this picture??

Both quilts are very nice, it just gets down to what you prefer, and what the quilt is going to be used for. I've found the high loft to be fantastic in custom work. It gives the appearance of Trapunto, and really puffs out the feathers when it's all finished. I've found the high loft to be a great "Winter" quilt, as it holds the heat well. Some people just prefer the flat look that a 100% cotton, or for that matter 100% wool can give to the quilt. There's no right or wrong, it just gets down to "different folks" "different strokes".
What's your preference???
Judy

Jenna's inspiration

2011-11-23T08:10:00.000+10:00

I forgot to post a pic of Shirley's quilt some time ago, and I was reminded to show it here for her daughter.

Shirley completed this Lynette Anderson designed quilt for her daughter's birthday, and needed it ASAP.

Given that it was required quickly, we decided on a nice E-2-E which wouldn't take away from the applique blocks.

Feathered garden from Timeless Designs was the pattern I used, and I think it was the appropriate choice. Very subtle, without overpowering the individual blocks.

Jenna, I thought of you the other night. I was watching TV, (late), and the programmes kept switching, almost like you were on the couch, bored, and channel surfing. It would stop, then start again, and I thought maybe we were going to have an electrical storm, and I had better go and turn off the quilting machine and computers.
I looked over to the couch and saw this.............................

Yes, Megs was having nightmares again, being chased by some Bush Turkey no doubt. Every time there was a twitch........... the channel changed. It's like your home again.............. sleeping on the couch.
enjoy your week.
Judy

Being quite.......................

2011-11-20T20:37:00.000+10:00

.........................doesn't mean I'm not busy!!. Me and the computer have had a strained relationship this past fortnight. I received bad news and just couldn't bring myself to turn on the computer. A friend, and old work colleague died suddenly and leaves behind a young family. I'm still dragging my heels in terms of trying to come to terms with his death, it just was so unexpected.

I threw myself into some quilting.................. I've always found quilting takes me to another place, it really is a stress buster for me, and I enjoy "relaxing" at the machine.

Rose and hearts e-2-e, it just seemed the right quilting design for this pretty quilt. Aren't the fabrics nice? I like the summery feel they give to this quilt made by Bev. She always has an eye for the nice fabrics, letting the fabric do the work, ....... the result is a nice quilt.

Nice quilt Trish, not bad for a beginner............ and pastel batiks. I love the way patchwork is addictive. Trish is already planning her 2nd, 3rd and so on ............

Trish doesn't like dense quilting, so we settled on a nice e-2-e design called Blowing in the Wind, by Timeless Designs.

It really worked well with her piecing.

Cassy, this is the best I could do to take a pic of the whole quilt. I'm spring cleaning, and the studio is a mess (as per usual you may say............. but it's messier than you've seen!! I'm gearing up for the high humidity, so that means lots of storing)
Amanda's quilt (below), is a beauty............. I never tire of doing these drunkard's path's (or robbing peter to pay Paul), never mind, it's four quarters, forming a circle!!!.

I' think I prefer these quilts with the circles quilted in the "circle shapes".

The pics don't do this quilt justice, it really is a stunner, and is going to make a wonderful present for Amanda's hubby.

Sandy's quilt, is a Jinny Beyer design. How lush are these colours?

I used King Tut Variegated thread. It peeps in and out behind the central design.

Great to work with.

..........Cassy, I still can't show you pics of the Crazy Patchwork Quilt, as it is still to be collected........... but I can show you some more of the blocks.

I hope she likes it. This is always the worse part of machine quilting, waiting to see if the client is happy with your work.

Enjoy your week.
Judy.

Quilt police alert!!!!

2011-11-05T19:17:00.000+10:00

I returned from training this week, and that meant being away from my quilting. I don't know about anyone else, but quilting for me is a real stress buster, so not being able to quilt is a test for my patience. When I got home, I immediately got stuck into Cathy's Crazy patchwork quilt.

This is going to be a wedding present for her daughter. How sentimental is this!!!! What a wonderful heirloom this will be.

Now the dilemma for me, was, Crazy patchwork traditionally doesn't get machine quilted.

I really mmmm'ed and aaahh'ed about how to quilt it, and thought maybe I was doing a disservice to Cathy's quilt.

I'm sure the quilting police will be sucking in some air at this point (and clucking in disapproval). But hey, all in all, I think the quilting is working in with the design.

In fact, I've had to go out and buy some strong reading glasses in order to do this quilting........... the thread is a very fine Auriful cotton (50wt), and just disappears into the various materials used. Very hard to see where I've been, but it really looks lovely .
It's great to be back home! Enjoy your weekend and the pictures.
Judy

I

Qld quilt show

2011-10-27T21:11:00.000+10:00

I finally know why!!!! This quilt was completed by Annie, from the Sunshine Coast . I think I'll let the photo's do the speaking.

Annie, here is the quilt hanging at the show. Doesn't it look stunning.

This quilt was handpieced by Annie, and I have to say it was just stunning. It was my favourite, for two reasons. Annie's workmanship is amazing......... I know, I've seen the way she does her work, and let me tell you, she is her own hard taskmaster. She sent her quilt to Melbourne, to have the legendary, Desley, from Addicted to Quilts, do the machine quilting on this heirloom quilt. The end result?? An Amazing, stunning, and in my humble opinion, the best in the show quilt. Desley and Annie make a great team, with the end result being this stunning quilt. So my question is, Why didn't this quilt get an award at the show??? The answer was simple enough, ......... Desley, who did the machine quilting (hand guided too), is not a member of the Qld Quilters. So, therefore the quilt was entered into the show for display only, and not for judging. That explains things. Oh what a shame, this quilt kicked butt in every department. Thankyou Annie for entering it anyway, and Desley, if your reading this post, please join the Qld. Quilters, your workmanship will inspire a lot of machine quilters to reach your level of workmanship.
cheers
Judy

Stork delivery!!

2011-10-21T19:43:00.000+10:00

Yes, I should have shown these pics earlier, but the Earl has a new camera, and he is trying to teach me how to crop pictures. (the man has the patience of a saint). Anyway, these cute little baby quilts are just gorgeous.

Don't you just love the backs of quilts?? I loved this fabric, I don't think the picture does the fabric justice. It must be because the photographer is lousy. (Jenna, hurry up and get up here to show your mother how to take decent pictures. Oh, and my studio needs your skills. Lots of books to sort out, and categorise).

This picture looks flat, but it really is a nice coloured quilt.

and I just had to add a close up of the quilting. Edge to edge designs are ideal for baby quilts. Lets face it, you know they are going to end up in the washing machine most weeks. So the quilt needs to be able to stand up to the rigours of washing, and some heavy duty wear and tear. I liked the way these quilts turned out. Hope you enjoy the pics Vicki.
cheers

Lost week

2011-10-14T13:34:00.000+10:00

I've had a bad week, and still feeling lethargic. I've lost the last 7 days, and I think I'm not far off from going back to the lounge to lay down. This year the dreaded flu season has finally caught up with myself and the Earl, finding the energy to even dress has been difficult, and trying to stay focussed on quilting has been draining.
I should have had this quilt well and truly finished by now.

I find I can focus for an hour, then everything goes blurry, so a lay down is a must. Next year, I think I will go ahead and get the Flu shots. I've lost to much time, and I thought I would have finally caught up with my work. Ah well, as Ned Kelly once said................ "Such is life".
Back to the sofa.......... maybe tomorrow I'll wake up and finally shaken this dreaded lurgy. Take care, and enjoy the pics.
Judy

Scrappy

2011-10-09T19:00:00.000+10:00

I do like the scrappy quilts. After all, the original quiltmakers always used leftover fabrics to complete their quilts. I have to admit, sometimes we stress to much about a colour blending in, and so on and so on. Shirley made this scrappy quilt, using a two block theme.

The snowball block with a simple nine patch. I think it looks wonderful. All of the creams and ivory colours were of different hues.

And I used an edge to edge pattern called Verdant from Lorien. I know the quilt is now with it's new owner, so "Happy Birthday!!!!!!". What a great gift for a son, something that will always be in the family, and remind us of loved ones living abroad.
PS Cassy, I worked yesterday and today................ yours is on it's way.
Enjoy your new job, and enjoy the pics.
Judy

Self taught!!

2011-10-06T20:12:00.000+10:00

Lynnie must be one of those people who can read instructions, and actually understand what they mean. Unlike myself, I'm a visual person, and need to see the steps being taken to understand what to do next. Anyway, not having attended classes, Lynnie comes up with this calibre of work................

A small Australian themed quilt.

Possums enjoying a cuppa................. and I decided to do a eucalyptus leaf as the filler on this quilt. I think it worked in well with the whole design.

Green tree frogs enjoying their brew.

Don't you just love the koalas in their aprons and boots???

Check out the girls shoes, .............

oh and these girls, loved their necklaces.

I can almost hear the kookaburra's laughing.

and I had to show off the eucalyptus leaves. Lynnie added the odd enhancement, and it made the leaves come alive.
She doesn't do a bad job of it all does she??
Take care
Judy

Dolly Wood

2011-10-01T18:49:00.000+10:00

This is such a great quilt for some sweet girl in your life!!!

I quite enjoy doing applique quilts.......... re: I'm trying to educate people to understand that not everything has to be stippled or echo quilted around the designs. I liked doing the hearts as a background filler............ it's only fitting for a young lady.

How cute is this one?? I love it!

Very lady like this one.

You can't go wrong using a swag border on a sweet quilt like this one.

I feel like yodelling!!! (Yes Cassy, this would be a wonderful "Sound of Music" moment, wouldn't it???

Denise really does brilliant work, her attention to detail makes quilting a pleasure. It all comes together nicely.

Sometimes the back looks just as good as the front!!!

Same backing, just under a different light.

Isn't it a beautiful quilt?? I have to send out the details to about 6 ladies for this particular pattern, they all drooled when visiting the studio and saw this one on the frame. Yes, I know, another quilt to add to the bucket list............ lucky for me my girls are to old for this type of quilt, and I know both are still a long way off from me even thinking about making quilts for babies!!!
Okay I have to head back down stairs to finish some deadlines. Enjoy your weekend everyone.
Judy

Raffle quilt

2011-09-27T20:02:00.000+10:00

Gwen bought this quilt to me and explained that her daughter, Donna, was making a number of quilts to be raffled. Here's a pic of one of the completed quilt, and I'm sorry it's not clearer. I'm just not good at taking pics, and hopefully my daughter can "train me better" when she next visits.

Here's a picture of Donna hiding behind the quilt. Donna plans to make a total of 4 quilts, all to be raffled with the proceeds going to a worthwhile organisation. HAGAR is an international Christian organisation dedicated to the recovery, empowerment and community integration of survivors of human rights abuse, particularly human trafficking and gender based violence.

It is frightening to think that in this day and age, the practice of human trafficking is prolific, and authorities at a loss on how to combat the disgusting trade. (Anyone who has doubts as to the existence of this practice should sit down and watch the movie "The Whistleblower" based on a true story)

For further information : www.hagaraustralia.org.au
Anyone wishing to purchase tickets can contact Donna Murray: on mobile 0408055 829, or via email: donna.murray63@bigpond.com
Thankyou Donna and Gwen for raising awareness of the organisation, and I hope you are successful with the raffling!!!
Judy

French General

2011-09-25T20:59:00.000+10:00

Like everybody else out there in the quilting world, I am a real big fan of the French General Range of fabrics. Here's a nice little lap size quilt, and I must say I enjoyed the way it turned out.

Penny whipped this one up for the shop, Patchwork Angel.

Cassy, I forgot to give you a pic of that beautiful hand embroidered quilt made by Margy. Here it is for you............. sometimes pictures just don't capture the work done by the maker. This really was a stunning quilt.

I've a lot more pics to show from the weekend. Stay tuned..........
Judy

Friday happenings

2011-09-16T18:04:00.000+10:00

Lyn did a wonderful job on this quilt for her grandson.

There are not to many quilt patterns around (well, here on the Sunshine Coast), for young boys.

So of course, no flowers, no feathers............ in fact, no girly stuff for this young man.

It's almost like having Leggo toys again.

I think he will enjoy having this on his bed. I think this pattern is called, "Under Construction", I have no idea who the pattern designer is, or who publishes same, so anyone who knows, please let me know. I've had a number of inquiries from customers who have seen this quilt whilst it was on the frame, and I forgot to ask Lyn the "Who, What, Where" questions.

Megs was on patrol outside the studio doors today.................................... What got her attention???

"Barry" the resident Blue Tongue Lizard.............................. one of these days this fella is going to latch on to her nose.

Lucky for us, Megs is one lazy girl. Her curiosity satisfied, alerting me to the trespasser,she then continued to patrol the car park and layed in the sunlight. Yes, we are safe again............. thankyou Megs.

Lots more quilting to do this weekend............ still playing catchup, fingers crossed by the end of the month I'll be ahead of myself.
Enjoy your weekend.
Judy

Modern quilt

2011-09-13T12:19:00.000+10:00

I love these new modern fabrics. They really add colour to a dreary room, and can make an old patchwork design look so fresh. The studio looked nice and cheery when Chris' quilt was on the frame.

I've been wanting to do the spiral circle technique for some time.

But customer's have shied away from this technique, opting for the edge to edge technique.

I enjoyed quilting on this beauty. The backing fabric is divine.

Aren't the fabrics gorgeous??? I think this is going to brighten up the bedroom when it's all finished, as usual Chris has done a super job. (another quilt to add to the bucket list!!!)

Embroidery Quilt

2011-09-09T12:57:00.000+10:00

Marg does simply exquisite needle work. She does all of it by hand, and quite often without a pattern.

She just looks at the native flora, pencils it down, and away she goes.......................

Hard to believe eh?? Visiting customers find it hard to believe that this is done by hand, ............ well, for that matter I work on the quilt, and remind myself constantly that Marg is a gifted lady. In fact, I get quite nervous working on her quilts................ lucky for me she has the patience of a saint, and is an articulate piecer. This is going to be an amazing keepsake. I hope Marg passes this talent down to her grandchildren, she really is an artist.
Judy

August happenings

2011-09-05T19:19:00.000+10:00

Would you believe that time is flying?? Oh my, I really need to kick myself in the bum and post more. I've not been sitting on my laurels, I've really been a busy lady.................
Annie's quilt.............. she traced her grandsons hands on to the background fabric, so I needed to make it pop. Can you see his little fingers???

Another beauty from Lynne, .............. this lady just "whips them up in a day".

I get envious of her talent. She says it's organisation............ it can't be that simple can it?

Margy's lovely backing....................................

Great use of her leftovers, and it shows up the quilting design.

Back to work I go..........................

Did I say how much I love my new machine?? Loooooooooove it. Well worth the wait, and makes me realise what a difference a good machine can do to your quilting capabilties. I like to challenge myself a little each time, however, it's a little difficult when customers only want minimal quilting. I 've yet to master the "in between quilting", as in, not to heavy, and not to light. Maybe in another year I'll be happier with my skills. I'm still taming the new machine, (Gabby) but I really can't afford the down time. I've lots of custom work to do, and I've been holding off doing them until this little beauty arrived.
I'll post some pics soon.
Judy

Weekend Workshop

2011-08-16T19:45:00.000+10:00

How lucky am I?? Well, I think damn lucky!! I spent the weekend down at Brisbane, (well even better, at Manly) and took classes with a "legend", Sharon Schamber. Those who don't know, Sharon is a Master Quilter, she has won at Houston on three occasions, not to mention all of the other shows, her quilts are just a work of art. That's me standing in front of Sharon's last quilting creation........ Mystique. (sorry if I've spelt the title wrong) Words fail to describe this quilt. She told me there was over a 1000 hours of quilting, ............. let me repeat, 1000 hrs just on the machine quilting!!!!!
And this is why it took so long............... a close up of some of the quilting..............

Very brave and bold machine quilter this lady. She used black silk thread on a white fabric. This tends to show up any "wobbles" that us mere mortal quilters do, something that I would shy away from doing. But Sharon, being the artist that she is, tackled it head on. Her background fills, (micro stippling), are the average width of her little finger. Amazing eh??? I've been lucky enough to have attended at her 2009 workshops, and again this year. I'm still learning, and this lady truly inspires all of the class participants to tackle feathering, and background fills. I'm amazed at her creativity, but what is even more impressive, is her modesty. She truly loves this craft and is a wonderful teacher. If you ever have the opportunity to attend at her workshops.......GO!!! Can you tell that I was impressed????
Judy

Wendy's "bits"

2011-08-09T19:36:00.000+10:00

Wendy wanted me to quilt two "inserts" for her quilt. These two pieces are part of an overall design, which is all pieced after the quilting is done.

I really like the bright colours in this piecing. It was a dream to quilt, and I used a high loft wadding, which really puffed up the appliqued birds.
I've lots to do, as I get ready for my big weekend. I'm attending at a Sharon Schamber workshop which has been organised by the very talented Pam Hill. The last time I went to Sharon's workshop I came home really inspired and couldn't wait to put in to practice the skills Sharon imparted at the workshop. Big couple of weeks coming up, so hopefully my new found organisational skills kick in. Yeah, right. Stop choking Cassy.
cheers everyone, Judy

Linda's work

2011-07-31T13:56:00.000+10:00

Linda is a "self taught" patchworker, and I've really enjoyed watching her progress. She really has embraced this craft, and is going forward in leaps and bounds. This is her latest piece.

A nice embroidered and applique lap size quilt.

Detail of the quilting.

From behind.

I often look forward to seeing the back of the quilt, mainly to see how the quilting shows up. Thank you Linda for trusting me with your quilt and letting me have free reign to do what I think looks best with your work. Enjoy!
Judy

Esther's quilt

2011-07-27T19:25:00.000+10:00

Some sneeky pics of this beautiful red and white quilt from Denise which I"ve been working on. I've made a note for myself, and added to the bucket list of things I want to have done before I graduate to a higher place (or lower if all of my confessions have failed!!!!)........... a RED AND WHITE QUILT.

Oh yeah, red and white, a timeless delight. I' already have this pattern from Australian pattern/quiltmaker Esther Aliu (Pattern called Red Delicious)but I think the reality is this is as close as I will get to a completed quilt.

Ooops a daisy!!

2011-07-25T12:24:00.000+10:00

Okay, if you squint your eyes, hold your tongue out............ you may just see the triple rings I quilted in one of the larger blocks. Can't see it??

A little closer, and to the right....................

...........and then to the left.

Oh, and this one is a "stand alone"......

........and then back to the triple, but a little closer. Still not sure if I'll be doing this type of work again. Only because I can't see the darn thing!!!

Glimpse

2011-07-25T12:12:00.000+10:00

A lot of work, for a little view. I think the circles with it's cross-hatching and feathering looks nice, but really, is it worth it????
Maybe once I see the back of the quilt I'll decide.
It's going to be finished today!! Yippee!!!

Sunshine

2011-07-22T14:19:00.000+10:00

Finally some sunshine in my studio............

It's been so dark and gloomy, and freezing!!! A bit of a glimpse of the sun trying hard to creep it's way along the side of the studio. It was nice having a cuppa beside the pool this morning, I now understand why cats find there "sleeping hide outs" in the sunshine.

Some orange peel........... coming along nicely, I had to take the pic up close, so as you can see the detail.......... it disappears from view when the quilting machine light is not on. I think it's coming along okay. This quilt has required a strong amount of taming, hence the need for a denser quilting.
Okay, back to the machine and more taming!!

Working away

2011-07-22T09:57:00.000+10:00

I'm slowly chipping away at this large Japanese style quilt. Lots of custom quilting in various panels, I should have it finished this weekend. I think Clamshells always looks nice on this style quilt........... so I've done a "different" technique to add a bit of variety. I've done various styles of Clamshells on this quilt, but they don't stand out like this technique. Lots of various busy prints tend to hide the quilting........ which is a shame for the front of the quilt. Hopefully the back will show up the various patterns. More pics to follow.
Enjoy your weekend everyone.
Judy

Missing in Action.

2011-07-18T08:24:00.000+10:00

Oh geesh, where has the past month gone?? Lots of things happening in my somewhat hectic life at the moment, I just seem to be flitting from one crisis, to another.
I'm managing a little quilting, albeit slowly...........(so what's so different you may ask???) At least I'm consistent with my happenings!!! Ah well, I take solace in the fact that everyone, at some stage of their lives, always seem to drift from one crisis to another.
I can't show you to much today, the last few quilts are being gifted/showing in the local quilt exhibition, and the clients asked me to not publish the pictures until I get the all clear. I can show this lovely little quilt from Lyn, ..........

I never get tired of this pantograph from Timeless Designs......... the daisy design just doesn't date.

Cassy, I can't show you anymore than these pics of how this quilt finished up...........I actually forgot to get better pics of the final quilt, up close. You'll have to come and be my "assistant", I seem to be sadly lacking in the "organisational" skills and know your expertise in this area.

I have lots of homework to do............ I'm doing an on line machine quilting class, and I'm loving it!!! Nothing like challenging yourself, and getting out of your comfort zone is a good thing. I'll keep you posted.

Swags and Swirls

2011-05-27T08:01:00.000+10:00

Just a quick post, and yes Cassy I'm alive. I'm just bogged down with a lot of running around this week. I did manage to finish a quick quilt for Denise. How cute is this baby's quilt??

I'm enjoying the swirls on the background of this quick quilt.

Yes, I'm partial to swag borders, I think they are timeless, and it was just meant for this quilt. I think the colouring of this quilt is lovely.

Back to the errands, hopefully I can catch up with everything this weekend and get to finish off some quilting.

"Always remember you're unique. Just like everyone else."
Take care
Judy

Colourful quilt

2011-05-22T18:51:00.000+10:00

Annie's quilt is a colourful mix of purple, green, yellow and pinks. Not something you would think go to well together, however, the end result is a testimony to not having any preconceived ideas on how colouring should work. Just keep an open mind and step out of the traditional safe colourings. Here's a picture of the overall quilt ..............

The green just wasn't any old green, but a real vibrant lime colour!!!

A little bit of everything in the blocks...........

I'm trying to show you the quilting ......... but it really doesn't come up that well in the pics.

This pic (below) shows the quilting a bit better.............. a lime green Auriful cotton was used, so it stood out against the purple fabric used in the border.

Dancing Daisy is a nice edge to edge design, and looked great on the quilt. I'm getting braver, and quilted from the front of the machine this time, which is so time effective!!!
I have a very busy week this week, so it's head down and bottom up for me.
Enjoy the week everyone.
"If I stitch fast enough does it count as an aerobic exercise?"
Judy

Cutey Patootey

2011-05-19T09:08:00.000+10:00

I finally finished this delightful "Leanne's House" quilt this week, and just had to share it.

I've always enjoyed viewing this quilt, mainly because I have no skills at stitchery's or embroidery.So when someone combines their work with patchwork, I can really appreciate the skills they have.

.......... and I've always wanted to machine quilt one of these ................ and I would have loved to complete it custom style.

With the global financial crisis, a lot of people are careful with their budgeting. So the cost of custom work as compared to a pantograph is sometimes the healthy compromise.

I used a design called Daisy Swirl, by Lorien Quilting. I think it worked out fine. Not overpowering and works in with the delicate embroidery. I still have my fingers crossed to one day quilt one of these, custom style. Hope you enjoyed the pics.

When I learned how to quilt........ I forgot how to cook!!!
Judy

Off the frame.

2011-05-17T17:35:00.000+10:00

I'm so glad to have this off of the frame. It was rather large, 100 x 100, and trying to keep those lose threads from creeping up under the wadding and back of the quilt was proving to be rather time consuming.

This had to be done today....... ASAP, re a friend had to head off to New Zealand unexpectedly.

So, no time for anything fancy............ which I think would have been nice to do on this particular quilt.

Another edge to edge design........ using a classical pattern, "Waterworld" by Lorien quilting. She has some magic designs............ they don't date either, and seem to blend in with the modern quilts, as well as the more traditional.

This is the back of the quilt, it really shows up the quilting design rather nicely I think. Mind you, I am prone to looking at the quilting rather than the quilt these days!! I'll have to reshape my thinking on that!!!

I used a S0-fine thread on the top and bottom, and on this quilt the maker wanted to use the Matilda's Bamboo wadding. This particular wadding is ideal for those with allergies, ......... so I will have to remember that for future.
Okay, time to feed the Earl and Megs.............. it's rather late as it is, and I'm sure they are fading away to nothing.
Now to knock off work down in the studio, and go upstairs to work at home. I'm looking forward to a decent relax this evening.
Take care,
Judy

Black and White delight

2011-05-17T09:32:00.000+10:00

Log cabin is a timeless quilt pattern. It always comes up nice, no matter which layout the creator uses. This black and white colourway, with a "smidgeon" of a maroon/red colour dotted throughout the quilt is one of those classics.

This quilt was made for Denise's grandson, so I didn't want to do the "girlie" flowers or feathers over the quilt.

I used an edge to edge design called, Bayside, from Lorien Quilting. It peeps through on the quilt top..........

but flip it over, and you really view the design.

I used a soft gray So-Fine thread, with the Matilda's cotton/poly hi-loft wadding.

The backing fabric was not quite black, but a darkish grey/black wideback fabric. It really showed up the quilting design.
It's really cold up here at the moment, so I'm trying to keep warm with bundles of jumpers and cardigans. I hope it warms up soon, I may have to have a wood heater built in to my work space.
Off to work I go!!
cheers

Locked out!!!!

2011-05-15T19:29:00.000+10:00

I haven't posted on my blog this past week for a very valid reason...... Wordpress had locked me out!!!! Very frustrating........ as I know Cassy has been waiting to see her quilt. So here ya go Cass.......

Cass made this single bed size quilt for her dear friend Liz's birthday.................

Liz love's hearts........ so making the quilt was a no brainer for Cassy, she knew anything with hearts would appeal to Liz.

Picking the edge to edge design was pretty simple too........... hearts only!!

I really liked the bright coloured fabrics used in this quilt. Very appealing, and fresh looking.

I've converted Cassy ............. I tempted her to try out the Matilda's cotton/poly hi-loft wadding. I'm really drawn to this wadding, especially for the "puffy" look it gives to the finished quilting. It's an ideal wadding for those cold winter nights.
Hope Liz enjoys this beautiful gift........... Happy birthday Lizzie!!!!
Post real soon....
Judy

Applique quilt

2011-05-04T09:51:00.000+10:00

This is a difficult quilt for me,........ not because of technical know how, but rather the maker doesn't want "dense quilting", but wants a unique outcome.

This block is large (over 30 ins), so I thought crosshatching, but I don't like the idea of an adhoc look to the finishing of the block (all of the blocks in this quilt are various sizes). Classic crosshatching I believe looks more effective with uniformity.

Yes, I filled the centre of this block with the curved crosshatching, and surrounded the applique with a feathered swag. Slow going....... I have to learn to speed up a bit.

This block (above), is a small one................ very difficult for me to give an overall consistent look to the quilt.

I've lots more to do, but I think it's going to look nice when finished.
Stay well,
Judy

Long Weekend

2011-05-02T18:27:00.000+10:00

Oh boy, it was hard to try and stay focused and get my backlog of quilting done this long weekend. The reason being.......... I got my special delivery on Friday, ............Yes, it finally arrived!!! I ordered this book called Custom Curves, by Karen McTavish. She has my favourite quilter (Ronda Beyer) do a special feature in the book, also included is a wonderful instructional DVD. I just think this renowned quilter really put the spotlight on curved crosshatching some two to three years ago. She really does some stunning work........ and she has produced some great rulers,(Ronda Rulers) and collaborated with Karen to showcase this beautiful quilting technique. Yay!!!!!!!! Geesh it's hard to tear myself away from the book though.

I managed to complete this edge to edge quilt for a client on Sunday. Margaret wanted this quilt done for her brother's 80th birthday. So I had to be careful, and not do a "girly" type pantograph on the top.

I used a panto called "Mimosa". I've not got tired of the design, I think it always looks nice on those masculine quilts and doesn't cry out "Girls quilt". I know the "Earl" can't stand the flowers, feathers and other "sheila stuff".

and the other interruption for the weekend?? Megs likes her walks, morning and evening, down to the creek and back up again. Trouble is........... her idea of a walk, is:

yes........ the Earl carries her whilst I sip on my coffee. Silly old bugga's....... we need to put a stop to this. What do you think Jenna?????
Tonight I do a little curve crosshatching on a clients quilt!!! Yay. Off I go to play. Take care.
Judy

Client's quilts

2011-04-29T19:37:00.000+10:00

I had to do a couple of quilt edge to edge quilts for clients. It has been a very productive week for me, I'm SLOWLY starting to put a dent in my backlog of custom work, .......... it's been a juggle act. Trying to keep on top of the newer quilts, but still trying to make headway into the backlog of custom work. Ah well, at least it's keeping me out of trouble.

Here's a few pics of a Whirlygig quilt.

I used a nice pantograph called Feathered Fancy. This is proving to be a very popular design, as it has an old world type look when quilted out.

You can see a few glimpses of the design in this shot........... rather the shape stands out, which is something I like in edge to edge work. (I'm not keen on the bold stand out colouring of some of the designs used)

Nice and subtle I think.

Anyway, the client loved the final result, and I was happy that I was able to get it to her ON TIME. Wow, be still my beating heart......... I may be starting a trend with my organisation skills. I missed a day of quilting, due to a bout of food poisoning. Very frustrating, as I had wanted to go to my local Patchwork group on Thursday night for a show and tell night. Spending the day/night on the loo is not my idea of fun. On a brighter note, I may have lost weight!! Yay..
Well, two more quilts to go this weekend, then I have to load up a rather large custom job. Hope this doesn't slow me down .......... nothing like a custom job to bring me back down to earth. Enjoy your long weekend everyone.
Judy

Old Macdonald had a farm.............

2011-04-27T19:49:00.000+10:00

Well Macca had a farm..............

I'm afraid the quilting doesn't show up too well, ............

but gee I had a ball quilting this one.............

I just had to imagine what the character looked liked, and then added a bit of hair, here and there, and everywhere...........

I think it looks okay.

Hope Pam likes it too.......... one little grand child is going to enjoy romping and frockling on this little quilt.Now to crack a whip and get some more done by the end of the week. Too many interruptions I'm afraid. I may have to do the dreaded "thing", of appointments now. I lost 3 hours today, unexpected little interruptions with clients seeking advice..........ah well, thank goodness it's only me and the Earl, and the "apprentice" of course, but my working days are getting longer and longer now. It must be the colder weather...........everyone is throwing themselves into the backlog of sewing. Or is it quilt show season?? Mmmm.......... better try and finish my one and only quilt for the year.

Until next time...... stay out of trouble, and you'll be bored.
Judy

A quickie.........

2011-04-24T19:08:00.000+10:00

Denise has been at it again............. piecing madly, and even forgot she had this one here for me to do!! She really does some amazing work, her piecing is perfect.

Alfresco is the pantograph design I used, it just seemed appropriate to match flower with flower........

I just love the RJR widebacks........... this black floral design was stunning.

A bit more of a close up..........................

I've been busy this long weekend, and even managed to get the house a little tidied up. Nothing overboard, but the cob webs were beginning to frighten me a little. I'm off to finish off a small quilt. Enjoy the rest of the weekend break.
Judy

A taste of Autumn

2011-04-21T16:19:00.000+10:00

Sandy made a beautiful quilt for her sister, maple leaves randomly placed on the various batik cream coloured background squares. The colours were really true to the Autumn theme.

I used a pantograph design called maple dance, it was the first time I've used this design, and it seems as though it was "made" for this quilt.

I've a busy Easter weekend, as I've still lots of catching up to do with my quilting. It seems January's little hiccup has played havoc with my custom quilting schedule. Thank goodness the girls are busy with work and won't be visiting, I'd have gotten further behind if they decided to visit Instead, my apprentice will keep me company as I quilt away. Gosh, I feel tired looking at her....... what a life she has, two old silly buggers fussing over her all the time. Oh well, enjoy your Easter....... and eat plenty of chocolate!!
Judy

Finished custom work

2011-04-17T18:27:00.000+10:00

The Earl is downloading a big file....... so my pics of a custom quilted quilt are somewhat limited.

I really enjoyed playing with the new rulers........... I did predict that the curved crosshatching would peep into a lot of my work.

........ and I've discovered that taking a pic outside ........... shows off the quilting a bit better. Although, this quilt backing is the quilters muslin, which really is a blank canvas for the quilting design.

Lots of ruler work on the quilt, I used my swag templates for the border, finishing it off with the piano keys, I think it gives a nice old world look.

I really didn't want to do too much quilting on the centre panel. Denise has a story for each of the characters in the picture...... so it was difficult to show restraint, and just do a large circle with a feather design in the centre.

I really enjoyed working on this quilt, Denise has great taste, and her work makes my job so much easier to do.
I'll post some more pics later this week to show off the quilting............... hope you like the result!!
until next time
Judy

Latte Update............. and a need to do a course.

2011-04-10T16:45:00.000+10:00

Well I finally finished this Latte Quilt, ........... it's turned out okay, and the customer was very happy with it. I must say, I wanted to do more on the quilt, but the client wanted very little custom work on it. (That's just not going to happen with me!!........ if I see wobbles, I have to quilt it down!)
Anyway, here is a pic of the back of the quilts centre medallion style .........

and the front of the quilt.......... sorry, I just can't fit it all in, so I had to lay it on the bed.

I tried hanging the quilt from the clothes line, so as you could have an idea............ but it just doesn't seem to capture the work, or the size of the quilt!

a somewhat blurred look at one of the blocks.

.......... and the dark lines on the pic below are not my shoddy workmanship, but you could see the quilt backing better when I hung it on the clothes line.

still out on the clothes line............

this was my favourite block............. why?? I got to play with my new Ronda Rulers for curved crosshatching. they are amazing!! love them, love them......... watch out, I will have to show restraint, and not use curved crosshatching on every quilt I do for the next few months.

Pat's centre piece was beautiful.......... all of that orange peel quilting is going to have pearls sewn in . It's going to be a stunning quilt.

the hearts are nice............. lots of feathering, inside the blocks, around the borders, sashing, and sometimes within the individual blocks themselves.

Okay now for some normalcy........ lots of catching up to do.
Sorry about the quality of pics, my promise to myself is to do a short course on how to take better pictures. Nevertheless........ I think you get an idea of how nice this quilt has turned out..... hope you enjoyed the pics.
Until next time. Stay safe!!
Judy

Latte quilt

2011-03-26T17:03:00.000+10:00

A quick post of a nice embroidery quilt. This is from a beautiful pattern book titled Latte Quilt, by Kerrie Hay. Just looking through the book is a delight.
It's to early to take a pic of the quilt so as you have an idea of the final outcome, but the pics just display the detail of the embroidery and the quilting together. It's slow work, lots of stabilising, but I think it's going to look nice when it's all quilted.

Fruit Salad revealed.

2011-03-24T20:41:00.000+10:00

Trying to take a sneak peek of Amanda's quilt........... I know "someone" hinted that I wasn't allowed to hand the quilt back to it's owner until lots of pics were done!! Mind you I should have loaded the pics on sooner......... but hey, better later than never. I called this one "Fruit Salad"........ Amanda's quilt is a drunkard's path, but pieced using the new modern bright colour fabrics.

My favourite of the blocks...........

Just getting ready to come off of the frame............. don't you just love the vibrant colours??

Teensy, peensy glimpse of the quilting...................

I like the crescents, Amanda's piecing was very accurate, and she did it all by machine. (I've still to master the technique of curved machine piecing .) Great workmanship on this quilt.

This is the pieced back of the quilt.......... verrrrrrrrry nice I must say.

A floor shot of the quilt, (I was hoping it would show up the quilting........ but no such luck)

......... and a little bit closer. Sorry, the pics just do not do the completed quilt any justice. I think "Fruit Salad" is a great name for the quilt. I think of summer, and citrus fruits when I see this quilt. I'm not sure if I'm thirsty or dying for a lemonade when I see it. Anyway, hoped you enjoyed the pics..........and remember.............. Creative minds are rarely tidy!!!!!!!
cheers me dears.
Judy

A quick one.

2011-03-20T21:08:00.000+10:00

Amanda......... look what's coming along!!

Yes, it will be with you soon!! How nice and bright is this one. I love it, I used a Glide thread, a nice orangey/yellow colour. I really like the vibrant colours from this range of threads. It seems to go with the new modern bright colour fabrics that are out now. Fresh flowers is the quilting design.........it's coming along nicely. More pics to follow!

Cracking a whip!!

2011-03-20T19:59:00.000+10:00

Well, being organised isn't one of my virtues. It's a bone of contention in this household. The Earl is one of the most organised persons on the planet!!! so his patience is sorely tested, (on a daily basis) when he sees the way I perform my "job". He decided that what I needed was a kick up the butt.......... (in the nicest possible way)!!. So he tinkered with his computer programming, and created a wonderful little data base for me!! Gosh, it saves me so much time with logging details, recording clients details.... ..... .... blah, blah............. even capturing images of clients quilts, so as I have a record for future use. (Nothing worse than repeating an edge to edge design to which I've already quilted for the same client!!). After all,,,,,,,,,,,,, I do think variety is one of the skills in the industry. So enough of the prattle.......... some catch up details of quilting.............

Gwens quilt........... very nice fabric range, really clean and summery.

just a close up of the edge to edge design I used.

Pam's applique sample.................. I've done this 3 times (finger's crossed a grand daughter is the next one on the way!!)

just a close up of the filler design I used in the background.

Going banana's!

Glenys wanted a very simple , lightly customised work on the quilt.

A Sue Daley "Adaptation" quilt by Jeanette............

A feather filler around the plates............

I really enjoyed quilting Jeanette's quilt........... she was patient, and let me do my own thing!! A bit worrying, .... as you know, quilting is very personal, and I tend to like the dense quilting style. I find it hard to let a quilt leave my studio when it has been basically "lightly custom quilted" ..... but hey, life would be boring if we all had the same taste!!

Until Next Time.......remember..... When life throws you scraps, make a quilt!!!!
Judy

It's happening!!!!!

2011-02-06T20:56:00.000+10:00

Well 2011 has been a slow start to my quilting!!! It's been awhile since my last post, but with Christmas, work, holidays........... and visiting interstate family, my quilting has come to a grinding halt. Since our return from Canberra, I've been busy with trying to control the problems associated with living in a high humidity area. At one stage I slipped and landed on my backside, the downstairs tiled floor looked as though I had just finished mopping!!! Part of the problems associated with living in high humidity, is the damage it does to your electrical items. Thank goodness for Rod (The Sewing Tech), he managed to repair my Longarm......... the humidity damage it did to my machine was amazing. I now have to "cover" my machine when not in use. I've had to upload images from my computer,(I'm working on the laptop at the moment) as it looks as though the moisture has got into the hard drive.................so if you've sent me emails, and I've not replied, hang in there, I'll get on top of it!!! Thanks to all those waiting for their quilts, I'm now starting on the backlog............ meanwhile here is some images of quilts I finished just before the Christmas break..................................

Heather's Japanese theme quilt was great to work on. All of the blocks consisted of kimino's in different fabrics. The middle one is my favourite......... I so love the blue's and whites, this one reminds me of the Delfin chinaware.

And her African quilt just came up beautifully................. I liked the will of the wisp panto.......... it looked like clouds floating across the cream fabric.

I never tire of seeing flying gees blocks. It's timeless, and the fabric selection in this quilt was very "shabby chic."
take care,
Judy

Australiana quilt.............. or a gift for Oprah!!!

2010-12-12T16:58:00.000+10:00

Okay Oprah if your reading this ........... here's a little quilt, with a unique Australian theme. Wendy did a fantastic job of creating this Leadlight Applique quilt. Each block contained a snapshot of Flora and Fauna....

Okay the cat isn't so unique........ she's just checking out the final result.

Stepping back, I still wasn't able to get the whole quilt in the frame........ but you get the idea of the workmanship.

I McTavished in the background............. I think this style of quilting really works well with applique work. It doesn't take away for the workmanship..........I think it looks like "air currents" behind the item.

The birdlife..................

Really liking the cockatoo....................

The quilt from behind.......................

The flannel flower.........................

A parrot.....................

A galah.
This quilt is stunning, and there was a lot of firsts for me. If your thinking of doing something similar my advice to you is this.................... The purchased bias used to frame the items has not been washed. MAKE SURE YOU WASH THIS PRIOR to using on your quilt. This black bias "ran" into the white background when I used an atomiser to remove chalk or the washout blue pen. I spent too much time trying to remove the spread of the dye, and I swear I turned even grayer throughout the process. So frustrating!!!
I've still lots of quilting to do.............. why do I do this to myself!!! The secret (I'm told), is to be organised........... okay, my New Year Resolution is to be better organised!!
Enjoy your week. Hopefully I can catch up with my backlog.
Judy

Great backing fabric!!

2010-11-29T21:49:00.000+10:00

Some time ago I got to work on Amanda's applique quilt. I;m just loving the backing fabric used on this quilt and I had to share with you all!!!

It's just great for a child's room don't you think??

Thought I'd better include the designer details. For those visually impaired........it's called "Senor Burrito" by the Alexander Henry Fabrics Collection. I'm not sure if this is available in Australia, but I will have to hunt down some of this fabric. I can see it being added to the bucket list. (quilts to do before I die) I'm hoping the colour comes through on the computer.......... but in real life it's a clean, bright and vibrant colour. Really captures all the colours of the rainbow.

Hope you enjoy the images Amanda!!!
Behind every quilter...........is a big pile of fabric!!!
Until next time, take care..... Judy

Colour alert!

2010-11-26T20:46:00.000+10:00

It's dark where I work.......... thank goodness the quilts of late are exploding to life with colour!!!

I just love this little embroidered baby's quilt. I used to sing this out to my girls.

A nice display of colour! I'm really enjoying these plain backed quilts, it shows up the quilting nicely. A case of ......... less is more.

Okay, gotta tackle a backlog. Until next time.......... May your bobbin always be full!

Hidden Beauty

2010-11-16T14:08:00.000+10:00

Well that's what I thought when I looked at this pic................

Can't see the quilting right???

Can you see it now??

Oh alright, I'll turn it over..................

A plain black homespun....... very nice.

with a nice lime green Auriful cotton, and an edge to edge design called "Whoopsy Daisy". Gotta say, this is one of my favourite designs, it always looks nice when used on the plain backings.

And finally the apprentice.............. hard at work............

"I'm creative - you can't expect me to be neat too!"
Till next time!
Judy

She's alive and playing catch up!!

2010-11-09T20:36:00.000+10:00

Yes I know, it's been some time; but I made a promise to myself............ keep the blog posts happening!! Re: It keeps me inspired and wanting to finish some work. I've been busting a "foofer valve", and working hard to finish up some custom quilting. More pics of that to follow.............. in the meantime, just some quick pics of some of the lovely work you guys out there have been doing.

For those of you who love printing favourite pics onto fabrics.............. this quilt centre piece was something I approached with trepidation. I'm not partial to the commerical products out there............ if you like fabric that feels coarse, fine........ but to quilt on it can be a nightmare. Allison felt the same way as I did, and took her pic of her roses to a local business, and had the print run out on a homespun, using the silk screen printing process. The end result was just beautiful.......... I'd thoroughly recommend it to anyone who is apprehensive about the process.

Lonni's disappearing nine patch. I like the colour way on this quilt!! You can actually see the nine patch.

Well I promise to post more often!! I'm practising some curved cross hatching with my Ronda ruler's purchase. I just love the new s curve!!! Looks great, and is user friendly. I'll post some pics of the progress I make.....Remember, people will see your quilts long after you are gone. . . Not your housework!!

A long absence...........

2010-09-05T20:19:00.000+10:00

Well it has been awhile, .......... life has thrown a few obstacles at me, which has meant time away from quilting. I've had to juggle a part time job, illness, and so on and so on............ but I'm trying frantically to get back at the machine and just escape from the "rat race" of life.
I've had this quilt for some time........... a beautiful Lead light type of effect, but with an australian theme. I've spent far to long just stabilsing this quilt, but it is starting to take shape.
This is a MASSIVE quilt......... and I'm using a quilting design called "McTavishing" as a background filler to the leadlight images. I think it's coming along nicely........ hopefully next week I'll be able to show you more images............ still a long way to go, but some things are worth the wait.
What do you think???

Old work

2010-07-22T19:24:00.000+10:00

Okay this is a quick post, rather a picture display of some quilting I've done. I've been a bit busy of late (working at "work", then coming home to work on a massive custom quilting job.) My number one follower has gently prodded me to post some pics, so here we go.................... (these are previous custom quilting pics of an embroidered quilt I completed. I really get nervous custom quilting, as I know my taste has a tendency to densely quilt. Which isn't everyone's cup of tea............. my motto is, If your bringing your quilt to a quilter.......let her play!!) Hope you like the pics Cass, and once the Earl is back on his feet, I'll find some time to post some pics of my latest custom quilting.......... until then just enjoy the "Mini Quilt display"

Workshop Results!

2010-07-04T11:39:00.000+10:00

Okay, some time back I attended at a Sharon Schamber workshop (the woman is a goddess!!!). I was totally gobsmacked at the talent this woman has............. and even more amazed at her ability to share her skills. Her workshops are not just a lecture, but a real interaction with the participants and always encouraging!
Anyways..........I really wanted to put into practice the methods she imparted. One of my customers let me do "whatever I wanted to do" on her row of the month. This is the final result.

Hearts, flowers, feathers....... I love this background filler style, so much more character than the run of the mill "stipple."
Hope you like the pics.
cheers me dears!!

Shadows and Mists

2010-06-24T20:41:00.000+10:00

This was another massive quilt I had to get done this week. Gwen made this lovely quilt called Shadows and Mists, a pattern by Fiona from the Patchwork Angel. Gwen used some Civil War Prints, and it came out beautiful.

Compose

I used a nice edge to edge pattern called Monstera Breezy. Gwen wanted a subtle quilting design, not overpower the quilt top itself. I posted a close up of the quilting, and one standing back. You can see that the quilting is hardly noticeable. A nice pattern I think.

Blue and Green should never be seen..........so they say!!

2010-06-14T20:20:00.000+10:00

Well I'm here to say that whoever made up that little Fashion rule (or rather decor), didn't get to see Dianne's latest quilt!!!!!!!!!

A perfect little quilt for her grandson. I hope he loves it, the colours are just drop dead gorgeous.

Reverse quilt

2010-06-12T15:49:00.000+10:00

Sometimes the back of a quilt really highlights the work of the quilter......... I just love the back of Chicken Little.

Okay the kettle has boiled, better help myself to a cuppa, before the Earl comes home to nag me. Enjoy the Queens birthday weekend (to those Aussies!!)

Sneak pics.......

2010-06-10T19:34:00.000+10:00

Just a quick post, I've just finished a custom quilt for this cute Chicken Little stitchery quilt..............

I'll be back, (the battery is so darn flat........and this is a new camera??) I must be doing something wrong.....ah well, if all else fails, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS!!

Wedding Ring

2010-05-30T13:39:00.000+10:00

After lots of unpicking, and shuffling and so on and so on........ I finally got this wedding ring quilt finished. Maureen did a great job, and I know this is going to be a real heirloom once she has completed it. Soooooo............ when you know the quilt is going to be a special gift, you really want it to be just right. Hope she likes it, .......... I still sweat it out waiting for the customer feedback.

What do you think??

Maisy Quilt

2010-05-23T15:47:00.000+10:00

Okay so I made a mistake by letting the Earl tinker with my blog........... now I'm spending to much time figuring out what he has played with and trying to fix it all up!! Geesh, ya reckon I'd have learned by now to not let him near the thing!!! Oh well, hope this works out.......... here's a quilt I did this weekend,. .... a nice bright toddlers quilt....................

Once again I used an edge to edge design from Lorien Quilting, titled "Butterfly Ballet", using an Auriful thread.............. nice and bright (lime green). I think the butterfly's look nice spreading their wings across the quilt........ what do you think???

Widow

2010-05-19T20:02:00.001+10:00

I'm a quilting widow...just sitting here waiting for my dinner. :(

Diane's delight.

2010-05-18T20:10:00.002+10:00

I loved working on this quilt (have you heard that before??) Well, it's true, every quilt is like opening a present, and when it's finished, and hung, I feel a sense of accomplishment. The skills are improving, albeit slowly, but I've a long way to go. Here's a few pics of the borders..............

and the sad part is.............
if you want to see this quilt, you'll have to head off to the Kawana Quilters "Celebrating 20 years" Show and Tell Morning. (On 19 May 2010 at the Kawana Waters Uniting Church in Bokarina) These ladies are avid quilters,and have produced some of the nicest quilts I have seen. They have raised funds for various coastal organisations including the Surf Life Saving Club and the Womens Shelter. This year the days proceeds go to the Cittimani Hospice located in Palmwoods. Head on over to view some spectacular quilts, and enjoy a lovely morning tea and lunch. I didn't want to leave the last one I went too it was a quilters paradise!!!
PS Diane has promised to take a pic of this quilt hanging on display.........I'm hoping she remembers to post it to me for a pic, because it was to darn big to hang here in the studio.

Sneak Peak..........

2010-05-11T22:46:00.002+10:00

I've been busy with work ............... whilst trying to get this custom quilting done........ oh boy, a massive quilt, and still a long way to go.

and this pic is for Tegan, so she can see the wildlife up here on the Sunshine Coast.

I'll try to post later......... stay safe and keep smiling!!!

and more feathers!!!!

2010-05-03T14:41:00.002+10:00

Ok it seems like I'm going through a "Feather Phase" but it's not me......... it's just a phase my clients are going through!! Oh who am I kidding, I love my feathers, and when a client brings in a quilt, and the budget doesn't allow for custom work, I think feathers are a good "poor man's custom work". (Hope that doesn't offend anyone out there!!..... but I discovered very soon into my Longarm Machine Quilting career...... that I just couldn't justify spending 3 to 4 weeks with one quilt on the frame, for a pittance!!). In fact the Earl is a walking talking calculator, at one stage I was working for just over $2 an hour. Which is a real shame, I love the custom quilting......... but I digress...........
Here's a few pics of Lyn's Amish block quilt. (this lady is another amazing piecer!! her third quilt...... self taught, boy she has made big leaps with her workmanship!!) The whole quilt........

and some close ups..........

Well done Lyn!! I think your amazing!! Hope your daughter loves this, I know the effort, and the journey you've made with your work...... it really is a quilt made with a lot of love.!!
Okay.......now stay tuned,......... I have a custom quilt on the frame......so I'll post some "updates" on this quilt over the next couple of weeks. Cross fingers this falls into place for me. Gawwwd I stress over this style of work, but love the final result!

Who loves Feathers??

2010-05-02T12:33:00.004+10:00

I do!!! Show and tell for one of my client quilts, (CarolR) - she works full time, lives on property so the chores are endless AND she is hands on with the house renovating...... she still finds time to "throw her quilts together". Yeah right, wish I could find the time to do same. Maybe if I didn't blog, and didn't chat, and didn't work, and didn't have to do chores......and didn't, didn't, didn't......... the list goes on and on!!
What I like about Carol's work is, ...... she is self taught, she doesn't get time to do classes, nor is she a member of a guild, but she is able to "understand" what the pattern/instructions are telling her. Now me, I'm a visual person.......I have to see it done, it's no use me just having the instructions alone, I need the one on one method, although I'm enjoying the DVD's that are slowly creeping into the market these days. Enough of the chat......I know you want to see the pics.
Here's Carol's little topper.........

Some close ups of the quilting...............

and the corner...........

I used a pantograph called "Fantasy Feathers" by Lorien Quilting.... I think feathering pantographs are a nice alternative for custom quilting. This quilt is an example of how edge to edge quilting can look just as effective as the custom quilting......... and lets face it, if your an avid quilter, and churning out the quilts custom quilting can "add up" . Get off of the phone Carol......you've quilts to collect!!!

2010-04-28T20:05:00.004+10:00

I think this one of Margy's is very "Aztec"??? I stood back and was reminded of one of those Mexican blankets. I just love the bright vivid colours. Here's a pic of the whole quilt.

and now some close ups of the quilting................

but I think this looks just as amazing from the back...........

This is a great panto called Nouveau Scallops, it really doesn't show up so much on the front of the quilt, but boy, with a nice thread (Glide), on a plain black homespun on the back of the quilt, it simply looks stunning. What a great job I've got........ I love doing machine quilting, it's great getting to see the quilt coming together, and the girls from Nambour do great work..... I'm always learning from them, and wish I could spend more time with them. (Please god, let me win LOTTO this week, so I can go quilting every day). Nothing wrong with wishing!! Enjoy the pics.

Still quilting.

2010-04-27T21:12:00.003+10:00

Yes I know, I've been a little late posting this week..........technical problems, something complex, and out of my control. (like....the battery was flat and I had no idea where the Earl put the charger!). Oh well, better late than never. So I've been busy of late, and still finding the time to finish up some edge to edge work.....it must have been "French Braid" mania on the coast.......here's one of the latest Braids I've finished. I'm loving the colours in this quilt......a beautiful Jinny Beyer border fabric with some co-ordinating fabrics. BEWDIFUUUULLLLLLLLL.

and I love the corner posts my client used. She wanted to use up the scraps... I really like this finishing.........

and here's some close up pics of the quilting.

I used a nice Lorien Quilting design called Happy Times, this pantograph always looks nice on these styles of quilts........ what do you think??

My week

2010-04-17T14:58:00.005+10:00

Wow, I've really been burning the candle at both ends this week. I recommenced work again, (not that I ever stopped working!!)........ but the "paint the face, actually having to get dressed, ........and having to look smart" type of work. Those who know me, and have dropped in unannounced have been traumatised by the ordeal.......... living in your jim jams is one of the hazards of quilting...... you get caught up in your work and forget the outside world. Anway, I managed to finish Lyn's quilt this week......... I think this pattern (Fig Tree Quilts)could be my new fav quilt.
The whole quilt...........

and a few close ups of the quilting.

How nice is this quilt. I think the big open places look great with the quilting showing up. I'm normally a bit conservative with my quilting, but I wanted this quilt to look like an old world type............. you know, the sepia type of effect.

Now I have to worry that she won't like the work!!! Another hazard to having to work, I won't be able to see some of the quilters collect their final quilt. This is the most nerve wracking for me.................. plus I love seeing the excitement and pleasure on the faces of my clients. Back to the salt mines........I have another to finish by this evening......... I had better focus, I've forgotten what the Earl and Megs look like!! Fingers crossed I win the lotto this week....... that way I'd be in quilting heaven...........oh well, no harm wishing.

Finally finished.

2010-04-11T19:56:00.005+10:00

I wanted to try out this new pantograph I've had for a long time. "Asian Garden" is a pattern designed by Jodi Beamish..........it's a very dense edge to edge, and therefore a little time consuming (well for me it was!!) Lots of undoing........ but I finally got there. Margy's quilt,is a nice use of blocks using Japanese fabrics,it really has come up very lovely (I think I say this about all of the quilts!!). Thankyou Margy, I really wanted to use this pattern, it's all very well looking at a paper pattern, but I think you really need to see the pattern on the material to fully "view" the design........I've been known to unpick rows of edge to edge because the pattern has been horrible. I think it has come up nice.
Here are some pics, you may just notice the design.....................faintly.......... the pics don't do the design, nor the quilt justice!!!
The whole quilt.........

a little closer...........

more close ups of the quilting..............

I'll know which way to go when I use this pattern again, so I should be a little faster, and more accurate. ...... and I'll know that it's not a quickie!! Hope you like the pics........ I've still lots of catching up to do, so I'll make sure the pics come your way during the week!!

Very elegant.

2010-04-06T14:19:00.005+10:00

Judy J is one prolific worker. She really does some stunning work. I've been envious of her needleturn applique skills, and watching her do some amazing projects....... this isn't an applique quilt, but one quilt she just "whipped up" in no time. I really like cream/ivory fabric.......and would never have chosen the same colours for one quilt, but I've got to admit, this quilt, with it's different range of creams has really come up nice.

and this is a close up of the quilt whilst it was on the frame. Once again I used the Alfresco quilting design from Lorien Quilting. This design is proving to be so popular, it really is a lovely edge to edge pattern, very elegant and timeless.

hope she likes the end result. I really liked working on this quilt, I'm not so sure that the pics do this quilt justice....... what do you think???

Part 2 of Margaret's quilts

2010-04-05T15:25:00.004+10:00

Ok, so the Easter break hasn't been much of a break for me. I did have the DIL and her partner up for a short visit, which was nice. But I have still to master the niggling feeling (of having to come downstairs and finish my work!!). Truly, I am my own enemy........ I should just learn to shut the door, and concentrate on family, Megs and the Earl!! Well, easier said than done......... the reality is, I think quilting is my "Yoga", I always feel happy steering the machine. Anyway, I finished Margaret's other quilt........... a nice stack and slash......... here's the finished quilt.......

and a close up of the edge to edge design. Another Lorien Quilting design titled, Arabesque, using a nice King Tut variegated thread. This is a nice masculine design, and I think it worked well with this quilt.

and here's the back, just as nice!!!

No rest for the wicked.

2010-04-03T11:32:00.006+10:00

I'm finally catching up with some of my backlog of work (fingers crossed no more "incidents" come this way again!!) I got one of Margaret's quilts finished today, a nice log cabin with a simple edge to edge design from Lorien Designs called "Alfresco". This has to be one of my favourite pantograph design, it always comes up nice I really like the way the back of this quilt has turned out............. take a peek,......

This is a close up of the front.......... sorry I can't get all of the quilt in the shot for you, it was just so big. Now to get part two of her work done........

More pics to follow........ thank goodness it's raining today, it makes for working on the quilting so much easier to do.

2010-04-01T16:22:00.002+10:00

Pam's work is always great to work on. She's a quite achiever, and always produces some great stitcheries and quilts.
This stitchery/quilt is particularly amusing to me............ mostly because I can remember doing the naughty things that these pictures are up to. Now honestly, who can't remember swinging from the clothes line?? and boy, if Mum got to you before you realised it, your backside would be smarting for some time afterwards. I think the kids of today really don't know how to amuse themselves like we did. Take a peek and let me know what you think.

Stay safe, and enjoy your family and friends this Easter Break.

The apprentice!!

2010-03-31T11:08:00.004+10:00

Well once again I'm down in the "Cellar" trying to finish some quilts that have deadlines. This sounds straight forward doesn't it?? The trouble is, when I'm downstairs............ "it" follows me. Geesh she's distracting, and hates not being fussed over...................

My little apprentice, working hard.............

........... excuse me!! The click woke her up. I know not everyone is a cat person, normally I'm the same, but old Megs was destined to a hard life if we didn't step in and help her out. She's so ugly, only a "mother" could love her (so to speak). She's a wonderful companion for me and the Earl, (she thinks she's a dog). The perfect cat, can't climb trees, can't jump fences,......... I think she has a disability.

PS: Megs isn't allowed near the quilts (this is one of my own quilts that she is allowed to rest her weary bones upon.)
Please let me come back as a cat who two silly old gits fuss over.

A quickie!!

2010-03-29T22:39:00.003+10:00

The grief quilt!!! Well, if a quilt could talk, this one would weep. The creator, piecer and quilter all had crisis incidents occurring whilst this was created. I sure hope it goes to a good home..................

Sunday coffee time!!

2010-03-28T09:47:00.000+10:00

I've already been up and working like the proverbial horse, the Earl has disappeared, so I'm enjoying a quick cuppa, and thought you'd like to see some of Chris's work.

Okay I know there is room for improvement in terms of the pics, but this is a steep learning curve for me!!! I promise to get better, but this pic is just so you can see the "whole" quilt, the following pics are close ups of some of the blocks...

What do you think???

Chris used a pattern from the girls at "Angels in Disguise" (and yes, I know I've forgotten to list the name of the pattern, and that's because I don't know!!) The girls do have a website for those of you who are interested. I loved using the Mctavishing in the background of this quilt, I just think it's a little bit more active than the regular stippling, and it provides movement. Chris is going through a hard time at the moment, so I'm trying to catch up with her work, so she can occupy the mind!! I think her work is just great, it's not like work when someone brings in quality workmanship. Thank you Chris, I promise to get off of my backside and get your work done quicker!!

I think this is my favourite!!!

Sandy's Fig Tree Jelly Roll !!!

2010-03-25T09:41:00.000+10:00

Sounds like you could almost eat it don't you think?? Not the same type of sweet treat I think, although it is pretty "delicious". I love this quilt..........it was just divine to work on, the colours are so old world.

I used a Lorian pantograph, called Paisley Playtime, I didn't want the quilting to over power the individual blocks of the Patchwork design. (Gotta work with the quilt, not against it!!).
Hope you enjoyed the pics, back to the machine, gotta lot of catching up to do!!

Cassy's latest

2010-03-23T19:36:00.000+10:00

and here's a close up. Nice work Cassy. What do you think?

Well after much nagging (from my dear niece Cassy), I've finally shone the spotlight onto her quilt!! Yes, my dear niece.........who I've long regarded as an adopted daughter, is a serial quilter. She is constantly creating quilts for family, friends and work colleagues. One of those quilters who genuinely takes delight in the creative side of the craft, and then enjoys the reactions of those receiving same. This one is made from Julie Wallace's pattern called Lantern's of Light. I quilted an edge to edge design, called Happy Times. It has an oriental feel about it. I sure hope Knocker and Leanne loved her work, I sure loved quilting it. Nothing like making or creating for those who appreciate the craft. So Cassy, ... stop stalking me with your emails, I finally got off of my backside and posted it for you. Luv ya.

2009-05-27T20:48:00.000+10:00

Just a test run.............damn I'm hopeless at this stuff. I just start to feel comfortable with new stuff, and guess what............... it's out of date over night!!!