a thread from the edge

Madonna Owned Half-Time

2012-02-05T21:17:00.001-05:00

Madonna was amazing!

Completely rocked the Super Bowl!

Best half-time show in years!

Proof that we are getting better, not just older!

And Ceelo - perfect!

Half-time nourishment?

Banh Mi

Vietnamese Sandwich with well seasoned pork meatballsand super-spicy sauce.

Step aside chicken wings - this hot is full of flavor, not just heat!

Served it up with a zucchini noodle salad

from my new favorite foodie blog

The Ravenous Couple

amazing Vietnamese recipes and more!

Beverage du jour

Early Man

Love the label

hard cider from Frecon Farm, Boyertown, PA

And for dessert,The E-A-G-L-E-S

This was the only way the Eagles were going to make it to the Super Bowl

Inspire Me!

2012-02-04T10:24:00.002-05:00

Geninne

I've been following Geninne for years

ever since finding her lovely birds on etsy.

She inspires me

her blues, her oranges,

her artistic honesty

And now I can have her in fabric

Cloud 9 - organic

love the strike-offs

can't wait until I can buy it!

More inspiration ...

- - - Uppercase Journal - - -

Eye Candy

Creativity on steroids

Shadows

Like you've never seen before

Visit the site for more!

And finally

Jennifer Collier

Sewn Paper - 3D

Explore!

Be Inspired!

Boston or Bust!

2012-02-03T16:48:00.001-05:00

Time to catch up.

Visited Boston 2 weeks ago - for snow!

And to deliver the "stache" apron to Mike - my daughter's boyfriend.

Here it is - grid quilted and complete with faux leather pocket

He loved it!

- Let me explain -

This is Mike in costume - his Halloween costume

That thing on his head is his moustache "costume"

He made it - out of yarn!

I told you he was proud of his facial hair.

Looks fitting with the apron.

We had a perfectly gorgeous snowy day the Saturday I visited

Roamed all over Cambridge

I was on a mission

Find "Gather Here"

My new very favorite store

I love it!!!!

A full line of knitting supplies

An eclectic collection of fabric

including Malka Durbrowsky's collection

Kokko, Enchino, and so much more

And nothing makes me swoon like a great window display

It had it all!!!

Can't wait to return!

Mission #2 in Cambridge -

Follow the Honey

A honey store - everything honey

I manage a farmers' market in my free time - hah!

Always on the look out for interesting foodie fodder

Follow the Honey had it all - lots of fodder!

A honey store complete with a tap

Grab a jar

And fill'er up!

We bellied on up to their "honey bar" to taste honey from around the world.

Guess where this honey is from - love the giraffe on the label

And, yes, we even tasted honey from killer bees!

The shop was full of everything honey,

Balms and butters,

Lotions and creams,

Candles and candies,

Bee inspired jewelry

and these great neck ties!

Love the graphic!

Sunday we headed to SOWA Winter Market

I'm forever exploring every farmers' market I can find

Always looking for new ideas.

!!! Pasta !!!

My Market - East Goshen Farmers' Market - doesn't have pasta

Look at these offerings!

Yum - now I'm on the hunt

Need ... to... find ... pasta .... maker ... for ... summer ... market!!!

Closing photo

On Harvard's campus

Do you see the face

His bow tie is crooked!

- Side story -

I bought yarn - twice - on my trip to Boston.

Bought a sock project Friday night at a cute little shop on Newbury St.

Left it in the cab!

Arghhhhh!

Bought another sock project at Gather Here

Finished one sock today - YEAH!!!

Need 2 to post -

Give me another week, probably 2!

Stache Buster

2012-01-17T16:09:00.000-05:00

What did you think?

Stache - - - not stash!!!

Let's face it -

no one wears one like Tom!

- it's all about the available follicular real estate between the nose and the upper lip -

yup - it works fine for Tom!

Why all this talk of the stache?

Hint:

"where's my stache?" from Alexander Henry

Love this fabric!

I saw it at Purl Soho two weeks ago and had to have it!

Why?

My daughter's boyfriend sports a significant stache

- Selleck-esque -

Quite impressive!

And, he's mighty proud of it, as he should be.

I'm pairing it up with this manly faux leather -

It will make the perfect apron for him!

Stop by tomorrow for the finished project

or, a work in progress.

The Guggenheim - Cattelan

2012-01-16T22:19:00.000-05:00

I like to share my "field trips" with you,

but I'll admit I had second thoughts about today's field trip.

NYC - The Guggenheim

A six story atrium

featuring the installation - All - by Cattelan

Disturbing, perplexing, unsettling

At first you're captivated by the immensity of it all -

Yup - that's a horse hanging there!

there's lots of taxidermy.

Yes, an elephant in a ghost costume,

positioned over the 2 dogs,

A steer with motorcycle handlebar horns.

Picasso showed up - larger than life.

See the Z's for Zorro - there were many of them.

Picasso showed up again as the focal point

in a Roy Lichenstern-esque piece.

A wall of faces - don't know the meaning to this.

I've spared you the truly disturbing

- you're welcome -

Interesting, yes.

Have you been?

What did you think?

Stopped by MOMA - great font exhibit.

Dinner - Eataly -

Mario Batali's massive restaurant / grocery store featuring all things Italy - YUM!

Love This Guy

2012-01-14T12:52:00.000-05:00

My apologies first:

- saw this at another blog yesterday, but can't remember who to give credit to -

lo siento!

I love this guy

- P. Nosa -

after all, what quilter can pass up a guy quoted as saying -

"it is my firm belief that all of life's questions can be answered with a sewing machine"

- - - swoon! - - -

You complete me!

Get to know him - watch his kickstarter video

You can find lots of other fun 5 words or less sewing videos from P Nosa at youtube.com.

Thanks P. Nosa!

Lion - and Tiger - Brand Yarn: Flagship Store NYC

2012-01-11T21:29:00.000-05:00

Lion Brand Yarn

- no trip to NYC for a fiber freak is complete without a stop at the flagship store -

Look at this great tiger pelt

- completely knitted by Ruth Marshall -

all stretched out on a bamboo frame.

But the real reason for the visit to Lion Brand Yarn - the window display

Every stitch of the display is knitted or crocheted

Hello Eskimo!

the photo from outside is always difficult because of the reflection on the window

Here's a peak at the Eskimo from inside - with a full catch of knitted fish.

Who thinks of this stuff?

Who knits this stuff?

Thank You!

You complete me!

Keeping the Eskimo company -

a walrus

knitted, of course!

size 17 needle tusks!

Thank you Lion Brand - you never disappoint!

Cheers to your creative staff!

City Quilter - NYC - January Gallery

2012-01-10T14:05:00.004-05:00

Love this quilt - mostly sheers
the shadows are haunting as they dance on the wall
No Escape by Ruth Marchese
The imagery and symbolism represent the tsunami and earthquake in Japan.
As I sit here typing this blog CNN is airing tsunami warnings for Indonesia.
The shadowing makes this quilt very three dimensional.

And I love this piece Shape Study - Dark and Light by Erin Wilson
Crisp, graphic - symbolic language.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T14:25:00.002-05:00

A new year and a commitment to get back to blogging. Hope you have a wonderful New Year's Eve full of friends and merriment!

Making A List - Checking It Twice!

2011-12-21T21:19:00.005-05:00

Christmas menu decisions - so much to cook - so many lists to make! It's all about organization and planning!
My annual ritual - scour all my recipe sources for my holiday cooking.

Baking - need to bake cookies for the neighborhood holiday cookie exchange - Rosemary Cardamom Pinwheels - so different, so delicious!

Christmas brunch at my brother's house - - - assignment - French Toast casserole - - - Mmmmmmm - Eggnog French Toast with Cranberry Apple Compote - sounds great!

And now for the true challenge - Christmas Dinner for my husband's family of 11 (and all of their families) - now you understand the lists - this is a well orchestrated event - - -
The menu this year:
Appetizers -
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce - this recipe is from the Famous Meatball Shop in NYC!
Rosemary Parmesan Almond Savory Crackers (addictive!) - from Fine Cooking
Brandade
Tangy Red Pepper Nut Dip with Pitas,
Caramelized Onion and Apple Tart with Thyme and Gruyere,
and ...
Shrimp and Andouille Cakes.

Dinner -
Fennel Garlic Roast Pork Loin served with
Mashed Potatoes and Rutabagas with Creme Fraiche - my recipe - no holiday dinner is complete without!
Celery Root and Sweet Potato Gratin,
Parsnips with Dates and Spiced Yogurt,
and a Crunchy Winter Veggie Salad.

My sister-in-laws bring the desserts. For libations - St. Cecelia's Society Punch and plenty of wine.

Now you understand the lists - and yes, I check them twice - and still I need to send my husband out for forgotten items.

Clickity - Clackity

2011-12-07T15:16:00.006-05:00

Well, I've been busy with my knitting needles - trying to get some "potential" Christmas gifts completed - one of these days I want to keep something for myself - both of these projects may end up on my scarf hook in the mudroom - I'm overdue!

Here's the diagonal scarf - it's made from a fine merino wool that is very flesh colored - not really pink - flesh hued. The pattern is free from Churchmouse Yarns and is available on Ravelry. When it comes off the sticks it's all curly at the edges.A quick steam and it lays nice and flat - - -
All five feet of it!I love the pattern - it's about 18 inches wide.
After finishing the diagonal scarf I moved onto this shield pattern done in a beautiful mercerized cotton with a lovely sheen. The pattern is available free at Ravelry - A Noble Cowl.

It's not difficult, but you really need to pay attention to the pattern - I like using lots of markers to keep track of my stitches.
It's a cowl - nice and over-sized so you can bunch it up about your neck. And best part for me - no wool, so no itch! Merry Christmas me!
I'm still busy with the needles - clickity clacking - busy with my sweater - second sleeve just about finished!

Quilting - next week I'll be back in the sewing room. I have lots of news and some great new quilts to share.

Trying to Find My Focus!

2011-11-13T19:59:00.006-05:00

Knitting - trying to find my focus - working my way back to the sewing room. Don't you love the color - not quite pink - a rose cremant - a blush champange.
Love the stitch - lace like but so simple - Diagonal Lace Scarf at Church Mouse Yarns.
I started drafting a new quilt pattern today - so much to share with regard to quilting - but not today - soon!

Sneaking Back

2011-10-29T23:51:00.003-04:00

Life has been so busy, but winter arrived today, ahead of schedule, and soon I will have more time to get back to sewing. For now check out this artist, Debbie Smyth - thread artist - so inspiring.

Mr. Missoni

2011-09-14T21:46:00.003-04:00

Dear Mr. Missoni - we love your quilt!
Missoni for Target - what did you get?

Basking in Success

2011-07-01T20:14:00.003-04:00

So yesterday was the Grand Opening of the East Goshen Farmers' Market - a producers only farmers' market that I organized for my community - check out our blog for all of the details of opening day. Suffice it to say - much planning, targeted marketing and a whole lot of hard work from my committee members resulted in complete success.

Today, honestly I've been basking in our success - it really feels good to have pulled this off - without team work it would have never gotten off the ground. We're such a creative group that despite our success yesterday, today the emails have been faced paced with new ideas to add to the market.

Tonight - a little time to relax. For dinner we had a fantastic tart made by my new market friend, Gil - all locally sourced ingredients including the butter, cream , lard, and flour. It was filled with earthy mushrooms and a tangy chevre. Check out his blog! Don't you love his label! I've been following Gil's blog for over a year and never put 2 and 2 together when we invited him to the market.

Right now my husband and I are sitting on the patio - what an incredible night - just finished a cup of espresso prepared with Joe's Honduras Dark coffee from the market. Every good cup of espresso needs a sweet - Gil's caneles were perfect - heavenly little caramelized morsels with a custard-y interior - their addicting.

To keep the bugs at bay we decided to infuse ourselves with a touch of Grappa - all too often known as nectar of barbed wire - however this small batch grappa from Cedar Creek Distillery out of Portland, OR is smooth as silk! The perfect summer night! Thanks Gil and Joe!

Feeling Peachy

2011-06-29T16:17:00.003-04:00

I've been so busy and it's all good!!! Tomorrow is the grand opening of the East Goshen Farmers' Market in East Goshen Township Park, every Thursday, 3 - 7 PM. Please check out our blog - we have an amazing list of vendors that are simply going to knock your socks off.

Take a look at these stunning peaches from Frecon Farms - just picked and ready for market tomorrow.
This market has been a labor of love and I simply could have never done it without my committee members - Donna, Kathy and Vicki - in 7 weeks we have pulled together the most amazing market.

Quilting friends - you're all invited - please attend the East Goshen Farmers' Market. Once this endeavor settles down it's back to the sewing room - promise!!!

Back in the Sewing Room

2011-06-14T16:28:00.003-04:00

I have been completely absorbed the past few weeks in my community's soon to be launched farmers' market - East Goshen's Farmers' Market! It is a lot of work - just like starting a small business. Well today I decided to collide my two worlds - sewing and the farmers' market - what do you think of my aprons? I didn't actually make the aprons, just embroidered them.

We are having a big launch of the market next week at a township event and I thought my team and I should look the part - this should get their attention!

Hmmmmm - this shot reminds me of something in the news these days - - - did I really go there???

Bachelorette Party

2011-06-11T09:25:00.002-04:00

'nuf said!

Hot Weather Recipes to the Rescue

2011-06-09T11:34:00.004-04:00

I promise to return to sewing next week - this week is just too busy to think of starting (or finishing) a project. I did however find time to purchase some fabric on etsy.com yesterday - - -

My, oh, my - - - toile - who - - - me??? Certainly not my standard fabric selection - - - and they are definitely not destined for a standard "Lisa" sewing project - - - nothing quilty!

The East Coast is centered under Mother Nature's blow torch again this week - - - aggggrrrhhh!!! Not to worry --- I've got 2 recipes to help you beat the heat - yummy, light, easy, healthy, low in calories - - - feel good food, despite the heat!!!

Cold Chicken and Rice Salad from this month's Cooking Light - followed the recipe exactly plus added an apple for some crunch and sweetness! So delicious!!!

And, Cuban Papaya Salad from the current issue of Clean Eating --- as a dietitian I simply I love the premise of this magazine - responsible, honest eating and cooking. This recipe was to be served warm but I opted to make it a cold salad - i did not saute the spinach and beans - just chilled everything after sauteing and then tossed it all together - so nourishing! Sorry - the recipe isn't on-line yet - - - you're gonna have to buy the current issue - - - don't fret - there's plenty of great recipes in this issue to try!!!

Meg Cox Visit

2011-06-08T20:10:00.003-04:00

Meg Cox, author of The Quilter's Catalog, was speaker at my guild today - - - what a motivating speaker! In addition to her professional achievements in the world of journalism, Meg is also the current president for the Alliance for American Quilts - an organization that I learned a lot about today. Meg is one busy and passionate woman!
A few interesting tidbits that ended up on my notepad:
1. The red and white quilt show that was on display in NYC for a little over a week - the one I missed - it's going on tour - we're going to get another chance to see it - hopefully it will be hung in the same setting. As soon as I get the info I promise to share it!
2. Quilters SOS - Save Our Stories - is nearing the launch of their upcoming challenge - a 16 inch square quilt challenge - if I'm not mistaken, and I could be, they are to be in the shape of a house - details pending - get on the mailing list!
3. August 5th and 6th of 2011 the Alliance for American Quilts will be hosting a fund raiser at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, followed by a cocktail reception at City Quilter - that might just work with my schedule.
4. The demand for quilt patterns is declining while the sales of accessory type items is increasing - interesting!
5. The Folk Art Museum in NYC is closing - this is not news to me - just terribly sad. I find it fitting that the quilt exhibit, now in it's second installation, will be the last show in the current location. The Lincoln Center branch of the Folk Art Museum will remain open.
6. Ami Simms is one of the funniest speaker - well, with that info I came home an blasted off an e-mail to Ami to see if I could book her for the guild - working on the date now!

A Squirrel Got Into The House!!!

2011-06-07T17:39:00.003-04:00

Actually, I invited him in - - - isn't he adorable!!! It was love at first sight!!!
Who could resist such a cute face?

I picked him up in Boston this past weekend at the SoWa Market in South Boston - it takes place every Sunday offering up an eclectic collection of arts, crafts and foods - what fun!!! I'm so lucky to have a daughter living in Boston - I just love visiting Beantown!

The back of the pillow is made of a sturdy twill, complete with the label - - -

It was created by Erin Flett of Maine - visit her website and her etsy shop - - - she has beautiful designs!

Take a close look at Nutley - he needed a name - he's screen printed on barkcloth!!! And, who loves barkcloth - - - ME! Erin found a source for solid barkcloth - Full Swing Textiles - - - guess who is going to be ordering her own solid barkcloth to play with - - - ME! Can't wait to see how it takes to paint and dye!!!

She uses her out-of-date calendar pages as her calling card - aren't they beautiful? If you're planning a trip to Boston on a weekend I highly recommend visiting SoWa - take in a lovely outdoor brunch while you're in South Boston. Oh, and yes - there is a quilt shop close by - Grey's Fabric and Notions on Harrison Street - a great selection of patterns for non-quilty projects!!!

My Eyes Were Bigger Than My Stomach!

2011-05-22T19:53:00.004-04:00

West Chester Farmers' Market yesterday - and as usual - I over did it! I simply cannot say no to gorgeous produce - look at my cache - 5 different kinds of salad greens, broccoli, baby beets and their beautiful greens, Swiss Chard, radishes and local tomatoes!
And my favorite vegetable - spring's candy - sugar snap peas!!!
From Highland Farms - lovely sheep's milk feta, Camembert and fresh yogurt.
It will take careful menu planning this week to be certain I use all of my produce. Tonight - grilled salad pizza. I made my own pizza crust with organic flour - my husband manned the grill topping it with spring onion slices and Camembert while on the grill. After it came off of the grill I topped it with salad greens and flavorful tomato slices - and dressed it with a simple shallot vinaigrette - - - CRAZY DELICIOUS!!!
To accompany our pizza I made a quick saute of sugar snap peas, radishes and carrots - tossed with lemon zest and lemon juice - so refreshing!

Have a look at the flowers I picked up at the market - peonies, and - - -
a beautiful mixed bouquet - - - thank you to all of the amazing farmers who work so hard to put this amazing food on our table!

What Did I Do To My Serger Now???

2011-05-19T20:44:00.002-04:00

Had to head out to Hinkletown today - - -
I tried to change my serger to a flatlock position - - -
But I got the cutting knife stuck - - - drat!

Then it happened - - - I found the first strawberries of the season - - - real strawberries, locally grown - - - not those styrofoam berries sprayed with strawberry smell that they sell in the grocery - - - real, honest berries - - - perfect!

I love this little tool to clean the berries - it makes such quick work of it.
Oh - - - and yes I got my Bernina fixed! Perfect!

Bathing Babes

2011-05-18T17:01:00.004-04:00

Yes - I am using a doll as my model today - all of the neighborhood babes were napping when I wanted to snap my photos! Spring brings a flock of new babies - time for one of my favorite baby gifts - a homemade hooded towel. Back when I had my babies a neighbor gave one of these little gems - I actually still have it! They are perfect - all you need is a wash cloth and a bath towel - make sure it's super soft for the baby!
It just couldn't be simpler - fold the washcloth in half, right sides together. See the pins on the right end - that is my back seam of the hood - just sew a quick seam, making certain you back-tack.
Now, create a cuff on the front of the hood and secure with pins.
Find the center of the bath towel along one of the long sides. Position the seam of the hood at the center point - right sides together as shown.Now pin the hood to the towel - your towel will not lie flat at this point - don't worry. Sew the hood to the towel - back tacking to secure the ends of the seam
There you have it - a great hooded towel. I will typically add the name of the baby using my embroidery machine along one end of the towel, but the name of this yet to be born baby boy has not yet been made public.
I always include a nice collection of my favorite baby bath products - Burt's Bees - just smelling these products make me remember bath time with my babies!
Here's another pic of the towel on my doll - I always leave the tags on the towels.

Doing My Civic Duty

2011-05-17T13:32:00.002-04:00

It's Election Day today - time to put on my civic duty duds! This will be a sleeper election - the turn out is expected to be minimal - - - how will I pass the time???

Here's my reading bag - I've got my current issue of the Hancocks catalog - i-phone in hand - yes, there could be fabric shopping from the polls. A number of other recent periodicals and catalogs I've been stashing to distract me from the long day at the polls.
And, have a look at this book - Shadowfolds by Jeffrey Rutzky and Chris Palmer - I picked it up at City Quilter 2 weeks ago - the technique is amazing!!!
This is a pattern for one of the projects -
Here's a look at the partial process - I cannot wait to try this! I need a slow election day every now and again to catch up on my interests.

Have you voted today???

Top 10

2011-05-16T15:00:00.002-04:00

Where have I been - - - well here are the Top 10 reasons I've been absent:

10. Plain and simple - SPRING FEVER!!!
9. Moved daughter #2 to her 200 sg. ft. studio in NYC
8. Returned the following weekend with all of the Ikea pieces we were missing - arggggh!!!
7. Busy cooking - lots of great, healthy recipes - promise to share them with you!
6. Organized my sewing room - all my fabric is neat and organized - for now!
5. Starting a Farmer's Market in my community - it's a lot of work!
4. Returned to program chair for my guild, Calico Cutters Quilt Guild - more work.
3. Sewing is not to blame - haven't turned on my machine in the past 3 weeks - I just needed a break. Speaking of "break" - I did manage to break my serger in that time span - drat!
2. Gardening, weeding, mulching.
1. Worth Repeating - SPRING FEVER!!! I got it bad!!!

Hope you too are enjoying spring!!!

Dress Progress - Best Foot Forward!

2011-04-20T19:44:00.005-04:00

Working on my dress again - and today it's all about sewing tips. First step sew the side seams of the skirt portion of the dress. Lucky me - I have a serger - bought it used years ago and this little machine just keeps on chugging.
I like finished seams - especially the long side seams of the skirt. If you don't have a serger you can use a zig-zag stitch to finish the seam.

The next step in the instructions is gathering the waist of the skirt - - - hold on here - - - I'd rather hem the skirt before gathering the waist - - - it's just easier. I'm using my Bernina to create a blind hem - this is so easy - - - the trick is in the fold of the fabric - - - pay attention:

Select stitch #9.

Prepare the hem line - turn the edge under 1/4''; then fold for the hem - - - I'm using a nice deep hem, 1 3/4'' deep - - - this will add a lovely weight to the skirt - - - it's gonna spin great!
Now the trick fold - darn - this is hard to explain - fold the pressed hem to the back, exposing the 1/4'' turned edge.
Use the #5 foot - - - see how the turned edge of the hem rides to the right of the center partition - - - the blind hem stitch will take 5 straight stitches along the fold edge. Then the stitch will cross the partition and take a bite into the fold on the left of the partition.
Here's my blind hem - can't see it that well, can you??? That's the whole idea - it's a blind hem!
Now that I've hemmed the skirt - - - onto the gathers at the waist. Typically, I would use my ruffler foot for making gathers - - - isn't this thing mid-evil looking!!!
Here it is attached to the machine. Today, however, I'm using a corded gather - - -
The dress instructions call for a single cord gather, but I prefer a double cord gather - - - it lays flatter. This is my # 3 foot - - - can you see that little toe in the center? That toe will hold my cord which will feed from the back of the machine - do you see it behind the foot?
Select stitch # 12.
Here's the foot in action - you can see the cording in the stitch area.
Perfect gathers every time - - - as long as you don't catch the cording in a stitch!!!
A word about sewing machines - - - it's all about the feet!!! Lots of us have hundreds of fancy stitches on our very expensive sewing machines that we'll never use. Instead of buying a machine loaded with stitches, buy a simpler machine and spend the savings on specialty feet - - - they will pay for them self time and again. I love playing with my feet!

Sugar and Spice

2011-04-19T19:49:00.003-04:00

And everything nice - - - I just love making dresses for little girls. And, I just love this pattern from Fig Tree and Co. - especially their shoulder instructions!!! This dress is fully lined in a complimentary fabric - - -
I decided to keep the white background fabric as my lining - doesn't matter - one good spin and everyone will see the lining!!! This is easily an under 4 hour project, and just darling, perfect for a party! Finished dress - tomorrow!

Favorite Things - Not So Fast!!!

2011-04-17T20:03:00.009-04:00

So I had plans today - and it involved playing with my new fabric from Purl Soho - Bicycle from Etsuko Furuya for Kokka.

I found this pattern in my collection A Billfold from Favorite Things - I thought it would be the perfect application for my Kokka fabric - it measures about 4 inches square, the perfect size to show off the print of the fabric. I had high hopes - - -

Not so fast - - - agrhhh!!! There were problems - much ripping out - a dash of profanity - and an end result that is headed to the trash!!! Hey - that's my Kokka fabric that was just sacrificed for this ill-conceived pattern - drat!!!

Sorry Favorite Things - this pattern just isn't worth the time or fabric. I actually loved the way my fabric worked with the layout of the pattern. The directions were terrible for putting in the zipper - correctly.
This zippered pouch is for change - - - On heavens - - - just look at how terrible that top stitching looks - there were too many layers to top stitch - my poor Bernina couldn't handle it!!!

I even organized my fabric so that you'd see a bicycle when you opened the pouch - how fun - huh???
Sorry Favorite Things - this billfold just doesn't work - everything about it was wrong - and I wasted my Kokka fabric!!! Not even finishing it - throwing it in the trash - cutting my losses!!!
Now here are two weekend favorites that won't let you down - Seared Scallops with Lemony Sweet Pea Relish - so beautiful, and equally delicious - from May's Cooking Light!
For dessert - Lemon Pudding Cakes - gorgeous, delicious, easy and only 170 calories per serving.

Jackson's Quilt - After a Dose of NyQuilt

2011-04-14T19:55:00.006-04:00

NyQuilt - haven't heard of this quilt altering drug - well let me introduce you - - - this is what a little NyQuilt will do to calm down a chaotic quilt - - - there, that's much better - - -

Remember this trendy mess - - - yuk!!!
I found this setting while browsing quilts on line - a whimsical cattywompus layout I've seen referred to as Kirichigae from a book by Susan Briscoe. Kirichigae means "changed cut".
Take a closer look at how the blocks are set - - -

Want to play with this setting - - - this is how I drafted the block. The blue square represents the finished block dimensions (without seam allowances), and the pink square represents the pieced interior block (without seam allowances). Find the center of both and use a push pin to anchor them to your cutting mat.
Now you can spin the the pink block to your desired angle. Here I've aligned the side of the inset block with the corner of the finished block. Once you're happy with the angle you can draft a template for the pieces by adding a 1/4'' seam allowance around the perimeter.
When I set Jackson's block at this angle it was too severe - back to the drawing board.
Take a look at the block from the quilt - I've set it at a less severe angle.
Just for fun, I drafted a four patch block using the technique and 4 '' square blocks - fun! Want to see this setting in a quilt??? Take a look at this elegant example from E. Wolfmeyer Quilts - I love this quilt!Tomorrow - the border treatment.

Charley Harper Quilt Along

2011-04-13T19:42:00.003-04:00

Here's a look at my espresso table books - quite an interesting collection - all very visual. My favorite - Charley Harper - - - My husband gave me this for Christmas - a mammoth collection of the works of Charley Harper - over 5 pounds and 423 pages from this master illustrator. His works are primarily nature oriented, but with a stylized, modern twist. He is particularly known for his illustrations of birds - he can create lots of motion with a few carefully placed lines - it's amazing.
This was my first introduction to Charley Harper - my 2009 calendar - it was love at first site.

Ethne at the Flaming Stitches blog has started a Charley Harper Quilt Along, fully blessed by the Charley Harper estate. Anyone can join with the task of simply producing a quilted something a la Charley's style - you can copy one of his illustrations exactly, or take on the bigger challenge by creating something new, in Charley's style. No copying for me - - - I'm putting on my creative cap and designing something original - spring is the perfect time for inspiration. I'll keep you posted as I work on my entry.
Hey - why not join in???

Lucky Clover!!!

2011-04-10T19:37:00.003-04:00

I visited Clover Market in Ardmore (Pennsylvania - on the Main Line, outside of Philadelphia) today for the first time. It's billed as a vintage outdoor market featuring antiques and collectibles, as well as handmade goods and original art. There are two more more markets planned for the spring - May 1st and June 5th - - - clear your calendars - - - it's lots of fun, and very well attended!!!
My favorite find of the day ----- Kaye Rachelle Designs --- they make beautiful silk screened textiles including pillowcases, placemats, tea towels and totes.
Poppy and Bean is a lovely vintage retailer. I loved their up-cycled quilts and more, made with vintage linens.
These mobiles are so adorable and what a great use for yo-yo's!

Unfortunately I didn't get the information for this vendor - but I do love the dessert stands they made with these vintage plates and candle sticks; and aren't those door knob bottle stoppers great?

Here's some very quilt inspired art work from Lisa Kelley at Milkshake - click on the images to see the detail of her drawings - beautiful!
I did spot some quilted works from Brandeye - - - she had pillows and quilts.
All in all a fun day - - - if you have a chance to visit I think you'll enjoy it!

A Peek Inside My Shopping Bag

2011-04-10T19:05:00.005-04:00

So - - - what did I come home with in my shopping bag - - - well, from City Quilter I purchased a yard of this amazing Japanese fabric, isn't it great?

Look at the texture from the nubby weave!
Selvage worth keeping - wonder what it says???
From Purl Soho more Japanese fabric - a yard of Etsuko Furuya for Kokka - I've been wanting to play with this fabric for some time now.
Love the colors and the bicycle - - - it's more of a canvas weight - perfect for a bag.
My last purchase - purse handles - I'd seen these on the Purl Soho blog and decided I needed to give them a try. They come in two sizes - I bought one of each. The package contains the metal purse frame and a paper twine rope.

I love the burnt orange color of the ball.

And, now I need your help - - - here are the instructions - - - yikes!!! No worry - I think Purl has the instructions on line - I'm fairly certain I can figure this out.

Friday in the Big Apple!

2011-04-09T21:29:00.009-04:00

It wasn't the nicest of days, chilly and cloudy, but it didn't matter to me - I had a great time in NYC - and it was all about quilts! Nothing says you're in NYC like Rockefeller Plaza!

First stop - the American Folk Art Museum - they are running a number of quilt featured exhibits throughout the year - I took in Part I of the exhibit at the main location on 53 Street (Part II starts April 26). They are also sponsoring quilt exhibits at the Lincoln Square Branch through the end of September.

Here are a few of my favorites - first, this beautiful barn raising variation of a log cabin quilt - it looks illuminated - it included many velvets and satins.
This sunflower quilt is so elegant - I love the long stems of the flowers and leaves.
Amazing and embellished - this quit is a stunner - the details - - -
Loads of beading - - -
Tons of decorative stitchery and a wide variety of fabric - - -
And, livestock!

This crazy quilt interpretation of the map of the US of A was really playful.
Another applique masterpiece - the Bird of Paradise quilt!
I fell in love with this elephant motif.
Glorious tail feathers!
A wonderful pieced example.
I'm sharing this sign with you because I actually like the term Show Quilts - isn't that what an art quilt is - a show quilt?
And the most beautiful patriotic quilt I've ever seen - this quilt is just amazing.
From the museum, I hopped a cab and headed to Purl Soho - now, I've been to this shop before with either my husband or daughters waiting - - - (im)patiently - - - and on a weekend when the place is so jammed you can't get a good look at anything.
Today was my day at Purl - finally. It's a great little shop, but the selection in house is definitely limited in comparison to their on-line presence. That being said - if you're in NYC on a weekday try to make time for a Purl Soho explore.

After Purl I walked - yes, walked back to City Quilter at 25th St. (except I got lost window shopping and actually walked to 35th St - - - oh, my aching feet!!!). I have no photos from City Quilter but I do have BIG news from City Quilter - - - they've doubled in size!!! And, they've started an Art Quilt Gallery in the front section of the new space. Their first exhibit features the work of Daphne Taylor - I love her quilts - her hand quilting defines her style - so subdued. The space is lovely!

And now for the best treat in NYC - the windows of Lion Brand Yarns - - - every time I'm in NYC I head to their window to see what new wonder they have created - - - and they never disappoint! This visit - it was out of space!!! Everything in this window is either knitted or felted!A knitted UFO complete with an alien knitted monkey!
A spinning rocket,
Of course, an astronaut - knitted!
Inside the shop you are welcomed by a whimsical tree growing out of the wall - yes, a knitted tree - providing a perch for cute little birdies,
And a place to set up home in a knitted bird house!
Tomorrow, I'll show you what I bought - not much, but different.

Rip, Rip, Rip

2011-04-07T17:29:00.002-04:00

Agrrrrhhhh! I hate to rip seams, but I'm just not finding a happy place with my settings for Jackson's quilt. And, ever notice that when you need your seam ripper, it's no where to be found - - - today I found it stuck to my lint roller - after an hour of looking for it! Agrrrrhhhh!!!

O.K. - here was the first setting I auditioned - by auditioned I should really say that I sewed it together completely - it was a full committal audition - - - and I hated it. That bias pieced sashing would result in years of therapy for Jackson - life's challenging enough.

Here's my second stab - audition - full committal, of course. I'm still not happy - - - there's just simply too much happening - - - where the heck is that seam ripper??? I tried selecting a solid color to use for sashing but nothing is really working. I fear the only way forward is editing some blocks out and relegating them to another quilt - - - I need to calm this blankie down!
One positive note to my day - I found fantastic, comfy shoes, and I love them. A little peep-toe for spring nail colors, and just enough heel to keep my ankle happy (long story short - - - my ankle was restructured using my knee - - - it only likes certain shoes). Comfy shoes are important - I've got lots of walking planned for the weekend!

Daddy's Tie

2011-04-06T20:36:00.000-04:00

The fourth and final block for Jackson's quilt is Daddy's Tie - this is such an easy block to put together - one liberated braid surrounded by the feature fabric. The inspiration for this block came from Jacquie over at Tallgrass Prairie Studio - she has a great tutorial on her blog this week for her chevron technique.

Why Daddy's Tie - because it reminds me of a tie. My first go round with the braid included dots, but I thought they made the braid a bit too busy so I decided to stick with solids - they work in the tie!
Sewing a liberated braid is so simple. I started with a heap of strips cut to 1'', 1 1/4'' and 1 1/2''. This photo was taken before I decided to omit the dotted fabric.
This is a liberated braid - no measuring - free styling piecing! Get started with two pieces of fabric and stitch them together. I was cutting my pieces about 4 inches long.
Stitch the next piece of fabric perpendicular to the first seam.
And that is as complicated as it gets! For my tie I selected 6 fabrics - 2 green, 2 orange, and 2 turquoise. I staggered the placement of like fabric so they would not show up on the same side of the braid - look closely at the braid below - the placement of green stripe strip alternates sides.
I had 3 blocks to make (a total of 4 for the quilt - I made my sample block earlier) so I decided to make one long braid - cutting it to size later. Look under my presser foot - see the piece of dottie fabric - - - that's my little pillow. I use it so I can chain stitch my braid. I sew through the pillow first, then keep stitching through the block seam. When I finish the block seam I sew another pillow at the end, then snip off my block, leaving the second pillow under the needle.
Snip off the attached pillow - and repeat. It saves so much thread.
I sewed and sewed until my braid measured about a yard in length. To cut the braid down to size - 2 1/2'' wide - I located the center at or about where the strips meet in the center. Trim one side first, then trim the opposite side - creating a strip measuring 2 1/2'' wide. Then cut into 3 strips 10 1/2'' in length.
Voila!

To finish the Daddy's Tie block cut one strip of focus fabric 2 1/2'' wide x 10 1/2'' long for the left side.Cut another piece of fabric measuring 61/2'' wide x 10 1/2'' long - I fussy cut this piece so that the turquoise giraffe was in the center. Piece the sections together for a 10 1/2'' square block.
Tomorrow - time to put our four blocks together!

2011-04-04T13:23:00.002-04:00

There's a great non-political election going on over at Spoonflower - Project Selvage. Your task - easy - pick your favorite little boy's inspired fabric. It's not as easy as you might think - - - there are so many good options. Luckily you can vote as often as you like. Here are two of my personal favorites: Pirate Pete by Mel Latthitham

And Fox Tails by Kelly at Petunia Textiles

NY Times - Sunday Style

2011-04-03T19:12:00.006-04:00

On The Street - a mainstay of the Sunday NY Times - is eye candy. A photo montage of the pulse of the fashion style of NYC - what's hot and who is wearing what. I love On the Street, and I'm about as far from fashionable as one can wander - its fun, playful, and never negative!On the Street is the visual column of Bill Cunningham - there's his by-line - who ever he is???
This Bill guy also keeps tabs on the movers and shakers of NYC in another visual column, Evening Hours - snapping pics of all of the important societal goings-on in the Big Apple.

So who is this Bill guy??? For years I have been viewing his parade of pics - never really giving much thought to the person behind the lens. Never really giving any weight to what those photos mean to the world of fashion. Well - meet Bill - - - octogenarian, photographer, style scout, milliner by trade, bike rider, blue coat wearer, NY'er, catholic, single - - - with an insatiable appetite to document trends and styles in the world of fashion. He is the most important photographer to the world of fashion - real fashion.

Last night I saw Bill Cunningham - New York, a documentary based on the work of this living legend. It's showing at the Ritz at the Bourse in Philly. An amazing documentary capturing the life of this brilliant fashion icon. Whether you care about fashion or not, the film, and the life of Bill Cunningham, is captivating - I highly recommend it.

Jackson's Timberframe Block

2011-03-31T13:29:00.003-04:00

The Central Park fabric I'm using for Jackson's quilt has the cutest little squirrels and turtles on it - all of about 1 1/2'' square. I wanted to feature these little creatures in a block I saw on the Oh Frannson blog last week. The little squirrel even has little acorns - so cute!
I've included the full instructions here for the 10'' finished block, but her are some photos to walk you through the steps. I changed up the color of each block based on my color scheme, but kept the turquoise and dotted fabric consistent in each block. The construction is log cabin-ish, building your way around the center square.
Here are the blocks waiting for their Lincoln logs - the turtles and squirrels.
The sides of the timberframe construction are done first - sewing them to the bock as a pre-fab unit.
When it comes to adding the top and bottom Lincoln log units you need to be careful to match your seams correctly!
All matched up and ready to sew!
Failure to match your seams correctly results in this - not good!
Here's a finished block - so cute!
I even fussy cut the corner squares to run the lines on the fabric diagonally.
Remember - you can get the instructions for the blocks in Jackson's quilt here!

Just a side note - I come from a very large family and brag about it, but yesterday we lost someone very special to us, my nephew Greg. It is with a heavy heart that I'm posting today's blog.

Read to Me Mama Block

2011-03-29T20:47:00.008-04:00

Today's block for Jackson's quilt is called Read to Me Mama - certainly not a new block by any means - this is one that has stood the test of time. For me it represents the stack of books that my kids would want to read before going to sleep.
This block just can't get easier - get started by cutting 1 1/2'' strips of fabric. I kept the background solid in all of the blocks and then mixed in my dots for some of the book bindings. The finished block measures 10 1/2'' square.
You can arrange your blocks how ever you like, and you can make your book bindings any size you like. I used book bindings measuring 2, 4, 6, and 8 inches in length. You will need a total of 10 book bindings per block with their corresponding background fabric. This diagram is about as technical as it gets.
Cutting Specifics - cut 10 book binding sets
For a 2'' book binding cut to 2 1/2''; cut 2 background pieces to 4 1/2''
For a 4'' book binding cut to 4 1/2''; cut 2 background pieces to 3 1/2''
For a 6'' book binding cut to 6 1/2''; cut 2 background pieces to 2 1/2''
For an 8'' book binding cut to 8 1/2''; cut 2 background pieces to 1 1/2''

Here are my fabric sets per block all ready for sewing. Take time to plan out your arrangement - be careful not to place two of the same fabrics next to each other in the block.Here's one block staged next to my sewing machine - all of my bindings are matched up with their respective background fabric.
Here are my blocks, all stitched up - I like the look of this arrangement.
And here's the finished block - woops - a different color background from the sample! I made a total of four Read to Me Mama blocks, each with a different background color and a different arrangement of book bindings.

Jackson's Quilt - Join Me!

2011-03-28T19:33:00.008-04:00

This week I'll be sharing the instructions for a quilt I'm making for my nephew, Jackson. It all started with this fun fabric - Central Park by Kate Spain for Moda - I just love the variety of creatures, everything from acorn nibbling squirrels and tiny turtles to elephants and giraffes. As usual when I purchased the fabric I really didn't know quite what I was going to do with it.
There were a number of companion fabrics, but the only one that came home with me was this great lined olive-y green.
I added some dots and a woven-look fabric to make it interesting - but I didn't want them to take over.
I wanted to add punch to the already great colors on the animal print - solids. To make easy work of capturing the teal-y blues I though I'd give this panel a try - Nuance from P&B Textiles - 6 solid colors on one width of fabric - perfect!
I added a few more solids to the mix so I'd have a number of options at my disposal.
Here's the start to Jackson's quilt - 4 blocks, each measuring 10'' square finished. The plan - make 4 sets of the four different blocks, stitch them together and then finish it off with an interesting border. I'm going to switch up the colors in each of the quadrants, keeping certain aspects of every block consistent to tie them together visually. I just love the colors. Take a closer look at each block - - -
This is my Read to Me Mama block - a stack of books!
This block was inspired by a block I saw last week at Tallgrass Prairie Studio. I loved the basic design and knew it would be perfect to join this quartet of blocks - this is the only block that is exactly the same in each foursome. I call this block Daddy's Tie - - - why???
Well, because it looks like a tie - I assure you my tie restrained husband would have never worn this tie.
This block was inspired by a quilt top I saw at Oh Fransson last week - it's my Timberframe block - I'm planning on stitching the frame section in a faux bois pattern. The dark taupe fabric used for the frame is consistent in every block. The center features a squirrel or turtle.
And last, but not least, my Squared Rectangle block - features a guest from the menagerie, and is highlighted by a marquis of dotted fabric. This is the block I am featuring today - instructions included!
I started prepping my fabric this weekend for a sew-a-thon today.
Here is the fabric for my Squared Rectangles all set to go.
These blocks go together quickly - the directions instruct you to sew the vertical sides on first, and then add the horizontal strips of fabric.
Chain piecing will really let you breeze through the construction of the blocks.
When you chain piece always keep you needle in the down position.
Why??? It keeps the feed dogs down, and the down position of the needle prevents the sewn fabric from shifting forward.
The addition of the dotted fabric is consistent for every block - it really adds a marquis-like appearance to the block.
Want the instructions for the Squared Rectangle block - click here! Tomorrow - Read to Me Mama block instructions.

Colette Patterns' Fabric Series - Don't Miss It!

2011-03-28T08:23:00.003-04:00

I'm an ardent followers of Colette Patterns' blog. For the past few weeks I have been following their Fabric Series - a review of different fabric types - what they are structurally and what they are best used of in terms of sewing, and how to handle them.

Today the blog features quilting cottons - check it out - and take the time to read the comments - they are as informative as the post.

Cooking Light Trifecta!

2011-03-27T20:05:00.003-04:00

Down to business in the diet department - a long winter and not much exercise has done damage - bikini season is right around the corner - - - hahahaha - - - there once was a day, three sizes away, thin thighs, flat tummy, no one to call me mummy!!!

Nevertheless, time to get serious - after all, I am a dietitian - I need to get into dietitian shape. This past week I made three fantastic recipes from the April issue of Cooking Light - this was tonight's dinner - Mediterranean Barley with Chickpeas and Arugula - vegetarian, delicious - I used farro in place of the barley - 360 satisfying calories per serving.
I also made the Scallops with Spinach and Paprika Syrup - amazing - so easy, and only 313 calories per serving! This is now one of my all time favorite recipes for scallops - dinner guests will be raving!

And lastly, Chicken and White Bean Soup - such an rich and flavorful soup at 335 calories per serving - perfect for lunch or dinner. Tomorrow night I'm trying the Thai Chicken Salad - it sounds great.

I've got a lot planned for the blog this week - I'm going to feature a block a day Monday - Thursday highlighting the four blocks I'm using in my nephew's quilt - it is so cute!

Then all of the calories I've saved this week eating light will be consumed in one massive feast Saturday night - - - a blow out dinner party - Mexican themed - - - I'm making GOAT - that's right, goat birrya, along with 5 other courses - - - it's gonna make your mouth water!

Blown Away!

2011-03-25T08:57:00.003-04:00

If you're like me, the quest for interesting blogs to inspire my creativity has become an obsessive pastime. Well, this morning I hit the mother load, the piece de resistance, the cat's meow, the veritable icing on the cake - I found Elsa Mora - artist extraordinaire!!!

This is one of those links where you need to make yourself a cup of tea, or pour yourself a glass of wine, find a comfy chair, turn off the electronics, and indulge - - - it is pure beauty, beginning middle and end! And, there is so much to see!

I was lured to her site by some images of her paper cutting pieces - Scherenschnitte as I call it. Here is one example - the detail is amazing!

But her paper cutting only scratches the surface to her creativity. Her website contains galleries of her artworks, drawings, dollhouses, jewelery, flowers, porcelain, paintings and dolls.

And, if that is not enough to just blow you away, she maintains four blogs in addition to her primary blog - one on paper cutting, one on handmade dolls, another on miniature books, and lastly one on her personal style - - - bottle that "personal style" and it would sell for top dollar! How anyone can keep up with 5 blogs and create at her level astonishes me! I'm exhausted just thinking about it.

Do not skip her personal story - it is so captivating - a true story of inspiration! Hope you enjoy - have a great weekend!

Stitch Assist

2011-03-24T15:12:00.003-04:00

My little birdie project has lots of hand stitching, especially for a baby quilt - something I don't normally do. My inspiration came from my visit to Boston a few weeks ago to hang out with my daughter Meredith, a student at BU. We visited the Boston Museum of Fine Arts - it's just undergone a massive renovation / expansion and has an entire building dedicated to American Art. They had a beautiful collection of American samplers - I am forever fascinated that pre-adolescent / adolescent girls created these works of art - they are magnificent. Don't you just love the fig leaves protecting Adam and Eve? And the stitches are perfect!
Time to practice m stitching, and the birdie quilt provided the perfect canvas for embellishment. When I got home I pulled out my handy-dandy Pocket Guide for Crazy Quilt Stitches - - - I've had this for forever.
It's great - a laminated fold out reference for commonly used stitches. I decided to practice the fern stitch and stem stitch on the birdie. I had already appliqued the birdies in place and finished their edge with a blanket stitch.
My friend Jackie gave me this Fons and Porter Marking Pencil - she told me I'd love it - - - she, as always was right! This pencil is great. It makes a thin chalky line that stays put until you scratch it off. It was perfect for marking where I wanted to create my embroidery lines on the birdie.
See - - -

Here's My Eye!!!

2011-03-23T14:39:00.006-04:00

Now my birdie can see what's going on - - - she's got a eye, complete with lashes. As for that wide open beak - - - well, something's gotta come out of there - - -

A song will be perfect - all I need are some notes!
I added fern stitch embroidery to the wing with the hand-dyed silk floss.
The tail feathers are accented with fern stitch, blanket stitch and stem stitch.
A close up of my dancing feet.
Here's one of my girls - she's got two other friends to keep her company on the quilt top. Soon time to put it all together!!! I'm toying with writing up a pattern - - - it's so quick and easy - and it gives just enough hand work to keep you busy during American Idol. I'd like to give C&T's Pattern Spot a try and this would be the perfect pattern to list.
Its been a rainy day here - perfect day to bake a loaf of bread. I'm using whole rye flour and a sprouted wheat flour. I purchased the rye flour at my local growers' market from Sunrise Flour Mill - it is made in Minneapolis, but their daughter is local.
I used the Rye Pumpernickel Bread recipe from Sunrise Flour Mill - it calls for cocoa and strong coffee to impart a special flavor and add to the rich color. I used honey in place of the sorghum syrup. And, since I was experimenting with the sprouted wheat flour, I decided to add some vital wheat gluten to enhance the structure of the gluten development.
Ahhh - the house smells great - - - nothing like baking bread!!! Beautiful!!!
O.K. - - - an air pocket or two adds to the beauty of the loaf - it is delicious!

Where's My Eye

2011-03-22T19:11:00.005-04:00

I've been working on this baby quilt for Oona - my nephew's adorable baby girl. I wanted to include a birdie - it's the theme of the nursery - here's one of my little feathered friends, sans eyes - they're coming.

Here's the birdie hatching process - I backed the main body section and the wing with batting to give the bird a little 3 dimentionality.

I turned the edges into the batting and secured them with a water soluble glue stick for a temporary hold. No fusing, no raw edges - - - this is a baby quilt - - - I want Oona to cuddle up with a soft quilt that can be washed time after time.
Here are my birdies ready for stitching onto the gray background.
I first hand applique the birdies to the background using silk thread. As you can see I gave them some funky striped legs. I'll get to the setting of the quilt later, obviously it involved hexagons. Once they were hand appliqued I used a beautiful hand dyed silk embroidery floss from Thread Gatherer to add decorative stitching - a little extra insurance that these birdies are there for the long haul - little Oona can take this quilt to college with her. I buy my decorative threads from Fireside Stitchery in Frazer, PA - their collection of threads is amazing - and, they do mail order!!!
Hey - - - I never did give a complete review of the Lancaster Quilt Show - - - truth is I'm still milling it over. I think there is opportunity for improvement in the show - it has great potential - what did you think - any suggestions???

AQS Lancaster - - - Shopping Wrap Up

2011-03-18T20:31:00.005-04:00

Today was the day - finally off to Lancaster, PA for the 2nd annual AQS Quilt Show. I'd like to start with the quilts, but I need a little more time to think about the collection that was selected for the show.

I'm playing it safe today - focus on the shopping - and there were a lot of vendors - perhaps, dare I say, too many vendors? Is it possible - yes, I think so!

I came home with a nice little collection from the Free Spirit / Westminster vendor - some great shot solids, dots and two fun little patterns.
From technicolor to black, white and in between - I love this fabric.
This is what I call shades of gray . . .
From Hoffman's California International Collection - purchased at Quilters' Express to Japan.
I also picked up this great fabric from the same vendor . . .
It is more gray than blue - from Yuwa Fabric of Japan.
Two more Japanese fabrics made their way home with me . . .
very similar in design and color - they will compliment each other beautifully.
This is selvage to save . . .

I found this great little pattern from Fig Tree and Co. at the shopping mall on Route 30 across from the Host (the location of the old Lancaster Quilt Show), the non-AQS sanctioned quilt shopping location. The vendor had it made up in a beautiful floral fabric. The number of vendors at this location is half of what it used to be and there were very few shoppers in the building :(

And did I forget to mention what a beautiful day it was - 74 degrees - windows wide open and the house smells like a fresh basket of laundry - bring on spring - I'm ready for it!

Day Four: Central Market in Lancaster - - - Open Friday

2011-03-17T14:42:00.000-04:00

If you're heading to the AQS Lancaster Quilt Show Friday or Saturday - be advised - bring an ice chest and give yourself time for a visit to Central Market, the gem of downtown Lancaster and directly across the street from the Convention Center. The market is only open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

I suggest you hit the market for breakfast and lunch - the variety of selections will make you wish you were spending the week so you could sample something from every vendor in the market. The market has a little bit of everything - - -

The expected German deli supplying the Pennsylvania Dutch with the best of the wurst. I've got a piece of their goosewurst in my fridge now - mmmmm!
Prefer something more exotic - how about Middle Eastern cuisine,

Need a sweet - try to pick just one from this array of Greek pastries. The variety of ethnic vendors will amaze you!
I shop at the market every chance I get. One of my favorite new vendors is Linden Dale Farm - their goat cheese selection is exceptional; and, they sell goat meat - I love goat meat.
For organic produce, local whenever they can get it, I shop at Green Circle Organics. In addition to produce, they also carry great breads, eggs and cheeses.The market boasts a wonderful spice and herb merchant to add zest to all of your recipes.

And if you really want to add some heat to your food - find the fresh horseradish maker - your nose will help you find the way. Fresh horseradish is entirely different from the jarred stuff. That is his manual horseradish grinder - this is the real deal!

Stoltzfus Bakers stocks all of your guilty baked goods pleasures, and has a nice variety of jams and jellies. Make sure you pick up a pint of Pennsylvania Dutch chow-chow, a mixed vegetable relish. I grew up eating chow-chow and just love it.
And, LOOK UP! The energy of the market can distract you from taking in the beauty of the building, but take time to appreciate the architecture - look up!!!
Will I ever get to the quilt show - soon, but there is just so much to see in Lancaster!

Day 3: Lancaster - Hit the Galleries!

2011-03-15T19:59:00.002-04:00

If you're heading to Lancaster Thursday or Friday for the AQS Quilt Show you've picked beautiful weather. Try to make time during your visit to take in the predicted sunny skies and warm weather by making the short walk from the convention center to Gallery Row (Prince Street) - you will not be disappointed!

As you can see by the many signs dangling from the buildings, Gallery Row has a lot to offer.

Artisans Gallery always has a very varied showing - I love their collection of artists photographed in their studios - not certain who the photographer is, but the images truly capture the spirit of the individual artists. The current exhibit features the works artist Lou Schellenberg - a great study on light and shadow.

Red Raven Art Company is my favorite gallery. I particularly love the work of two of their member artists - Matt Chambers and Art Harrington - their paintings of the farmland countryside are so inspiring.
And, don't miss City Folk - this eclectic store offers beautiful housewares and art - I could live in this shop!

There are lots of little eating places to pick up a quick lunch in the area. I typically head to the Prince Street Cafe for a jolt of espresso, double please! To fuel up on calories - I strongly suggest Carmen and David's Creamery next door for a dose of the best ice cream in the city - quilt shows are strenuous business - you don't want to run out of energy!

Looking for Inspiration in Lancaster

2011-03-15T19:07:00.003-04:00

Another day, another district of Lancaster to explore - today the West End District. This area of town is beautiful, it's fun just wandering through the neighborhoods looking at the beautiful architecture of the historic homes.

When you need a break stop by DogStar Books and Gallery - - - this is a fantastic used book shop and gallery - - -

Take a look at the wall of books - - - that is the collection of art books. Many of the books are long out of print, and can have a price tag to match their obscurity. I spent an hour just browsing the titles - so inspiring. They are moving in about four month to a larger location four blocks away - they clearly need more space - and they want to be able to display more art.
Time for a caffeine fix - - - head across the street to the very friendly Chestnut Hill Cafe for a great cup of espresso and a delicious lunch (or breakfast or dinner).
When you're feeling refreshed head back to the streets for a walk to the Franklin and Marshall campus. I suggest a visit to the Phillips Museum located on the campus - it is currently between exhibits - you just missed a great one which featured the pottery of Willi Singleton, the tapestry of Nakajima, and the woodwork of Arimoto.

Stop by the Arts Hotel Gallery in the Lancaster Arts Hotel for a look at their exhibit.

Tomorrow - Gallery Row!

Lancaster - Planning Your Trip

2011-03-14T10:57:00.003-04:00

The AQS Lancaster Quilt Show is this week - March 16 - 19, in the historic and eclectic city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This will be the second year for the show - can't wait to see what the show has in store for us.

Don't let your Lancaster experience begin and end with the show. There are so many great spots to visit in Lancaster. I'm going to take the rest of the week to highlight some of my favorite spots in the city. Today, I'm in the Uptown section of the city, featuring Mommalicious / My Aunt Debbie. This is a sweet spot - focusing mainly on vintage and re-purposed materials - with lots of sewing related items. How about this button based jewelry?Thimble earrings . . .
Fun sewn creations for kids . . .
The sewing nostalgia center . . .
New homes for old dollies and quilts . . .
And Olivia's collection of clothing for little girls - that would be Olivia, as in my daughter - - - the shop carries her collection of handmade clothing for little girls, sizes 2 toddler through 4 toddler. All of the clothes are made with 100% cotton and finished with French seams - they are beautiful!
When you find yourself hungry Uptown I suggest stopping by Rachel's Creperie for one of her creative crepes, yum!

For more inspiration, wander down the street to Arts & Glassworks Studio - they have an amazing collection of Motawi tile work that I find so inspiring - it is based on arts and crafts designs and can translate to applique quilting.

Bark Cloth enthusiasts - - - do not miss Zap Home located at 24 W. Walnut Street - - - the owner has a massive collection of bark cloth, vintage fabric and linens which she will show you if you ask!!!

The original Zap store was located next to Rachel's but was burned to the ground last month. The owner, Steve, was severely injured in the fire - he is credited with the renaissance of downtown Lancaster - you will see tributes to him throughout the town. He is truly an amazing guy - my husband and I had an hour long conversation with Steve just a few months back - keep him in your thoughts!

For all things Lancaster - I suggest FIG - a wonderful community resource for the city of Lancaster!

Tonight's Menu: Phoenixville Farmers' Market Select

2011-03-13T17:05:00.003-04:00

I'll admit - not everything in this menu is local - - - soon!

That being said - it is amazing what you can find in your local farmers' market this time of year. Tonight's dinner is featuring some simply amazing finds from the Phoenixville Winter Farmers' Market - For tonight's dinner - - - I'm celebrating local purveyors and the promise of spring!

Appetizer - a lovely raw milk stinky cheese from Birchrun Hills - Red Cat. I've had this warming up to room temperature for hours - can't wait to taste it.

Dinner - yes this is salmon, and the back story is great - check out their website! Wild for Salmon - out of Bloomsburg, PA is a husband and wife team that spends salmon season in Alaska fishing the day away. They bring their catch home and sell it at local markets, including Phoenixville Farmers' Market I'm roasting the salmon tonight and then topping it with this zesty compound butter whipped up with dijon mustard, local honey, and the last wisps of thyme from my herb bed.For sides I'm roasting asparagus (not local - yet!) and some colorful fingerling potatoes.
After roasting the asparagus I'm going to toss them with this melange of orange zest, butter, orange juice and chopped hazelnuts.
And for dessert - - - Betsy baked dessert - - - Betsy of Iced by Betsy - the best cupcake baker in the area - by far!!! Tonight's choice are cinnamon-y. You can find Betsy at the Phoenixville Market - get to her stand first - she is very popular!

Hiccup!

2011-02-24T10:19:00.003-05:00

Wow - has it really been since February 14th since my last blog post - sorry - things got just a bit overwhelming again! I'll be back on track soon!

For those of you out there who dream of Project Runway - I bring you life at Parson's. As many of you know, my youngest daughter is a student there - here is her latest project from her methods class - a dress - it's all about technique.

The front:

The back:
And the latest collection from her concepts class - I honestly forget her inspiration for this collection.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T09:02:00.006-05:00

Here's a little Valentine's Day sample I worked on years ago - the Queen of Hearts. Now this is pretty sloppy, but it was my experimentation into all things cowboy boots - - - er, well, cowgirl boots!!!
We had a Western themed party to attend a few years back and awards were being given to best dressed. What's a cowgirl outfit without boots, right? I did some research on line and fell in love with the workmanship of cowboy / girl boots - - - it's like wearing an applique quilt on your foot - with a price tag to match!!!
I decided rather than shelling out the hundreds of dollars for the boots I fell in love with that I would create a cowgirl inspired vest - - - please keep in mind - this was a costume, nothing you'd catch me wearing out to the grocery store or dinner. How I wish better judgment would have prevailed and prevented me from putting that image of the scary cowgirl on the back of the vest - - - oh, well!
What I did love about the vest were the cowboy boot motifs I played with to corral the scary cowgirl. I used bold solid fabrics and accented the motifs with lots of satin stitching and specialty stitches in contrasting colors. What fun!!
Some reverse applique,
And, flame-like border work.
The front of the vest featured a cowboy / girl boot barkcloth I found on line - super colorful.
It wasn't a vintage barkcloth, but with boot images this good, who cares.
I had so much fun making this vest that I vowed I would revisit the applique art of cowboy boots in my quilting down the road, but time, and distraction, has been my enemy. The vest served the purpose for the party - first prize for best dressed, but now hangs forgotten in my closet. No more - - - I'm gonna dismantle the gal and turn her into a market bag for the start of the spring farmer's markets - she should really turn some heads!
FYI - - - Pub and Kitchen in Philly - - - fantastic!!!

Foodie's Delight Weekend

2011-02-12T12:52:00.005-05:00

Last night - dinner at Restaurant Alba in Malvern - - - highlight of the meal was dessert and the apricot crostado - - - I'm gonna try to get that recipe, and if I do, I promise to share. Sorry - I never snap pics in restaurants. A lot of wine was consumed - can't sleep in - - - market in the morning!

Who says you can't eat local in the winter in Pennsylvania - - - evidence of doing just that! Here's our stash from the Phoenixville Growers Market this morning - - -

We picked up a lovely box of assorted chocolates from John and Kira's - a Philadelphia chocolatier - had a sample of the lemongrass ganache filled chocolate - YUM!.
An experimental cheese from Birchrun Hills Farm - they had me at experimental - love everything they do! We also picked up a veal tenderloin for a valentine's dinner for family tomorrow night.
A whole grain loaf from St. Peter's Village Bakery - this bread is addictive!
Salmon from Wild for Salmon - a local husband and wife team that actually travels to Alaska, catches the salmon, processes it, and brings it back to southeastern PA for sale at various markets.
Some delicious cold weather cuts of bison from Backyard Bison - this stuff is great, and so much leaner than beef!
And, yes, produce - baby bok choy, red mustard, arugula and gorgeous carrots - all grown locally in winter! This adds to my produce lot that I picked up earlier this week from the Anselma winter market.
Loosen up the belt buckle - more indulgence tonight - - - Pub and Kitchen in Philly - - - I have been itching to have dinner at this restaurant but they don't take reservations. Tonight we are hitting it early with hopes of getting a seat - cross your fingers!

Wasteland

2011-02-11T14:04:00.002-05:00

My husband and I saw a most amazing documentary last night - Wasteland - based on the work of the artist Vik Muniz and his portraits of the catadores of the Jardim Gramacho of Rio de Janeiro.

A little background - - -

Jardim Gramacho is the largest landfill in the world located in Rio de Janeiro - receiving over 7000 tons of garbage daily from neighboring communities.

Catadores are the pickers of that landfill - they pick anything and everything that has recycling value, and then broker their finds to provide an income for their families. Most live adjacent to the landfill - - - the images of the landfill in the movie are so poignant you find yourself bracing for the inevitable smell which the movie spares you.

Muniz created his portraits with the help of the catadores that his portraits depict - - - out of trash and recyclables. His method is captivating - a physical and emotional experience for the catadores and on-lookers alike. The dialogue is powerful and visceral as the politics of the Jardim Gramacho are revealed. The result of his artistic endeavor had / has far reaching social implications for the catadores - - - it is so compelling. If you have the opportunity to see Wasteland I highly recommend it.

Here is one of his portraits in the creation stage - a photographic image is projected onto the floor. From that projected image the catadores use castoff refuse to re-create that image in collage form. The website for the movie is excellent and provides a wealth of information on not only Muniz's artistic approach, but all of the politics involved.

Dyeing for a Visit

2011-02-10T17:00:00.007-05:00

I had an all-star day visiting with my friend Jackie Gauker - creator of the most beautiful hand-dyed wools you have ever seen!

This is part of her inventory - if you ever visited Quilter's Palette it will look familiar - that was her quilt shop which she closed a few months ago. Since then she has been taking some well-deserved time for herself, but back to reality - time to dye!

Here are the fruits of her labor from yesterday's dying session - - - don't drool!!!
Here's a multi-colored sample
This is her dying bible - Dying Wool by Karen Shellinger.
When she started dying wool she was using 5 basic colors - - - as you can see, her palette has expanded.
Here is her fabric waiting to be dyed - she soaks it in water treated with synthrapol. She dyes all different colors of wool - even dark wool. She sampled a dark brown wool in a purple vat for me - - - the wool took a distinctive purple hue - - - very interesting.

She has become a connoisseur of wool - this is her favorite resource for good quality dying wool. Dying wool is very different from dying cotton - citric acid is added to the dye bath. Here's her work space.
Know what these things are???
They are measuring spoons for the dye. And, fyi - you don't wash them off to clean them - you dip them into salt to remove the dye powder.
Unlike dying cotton which requires room temperature water, wool dying requires boiling water. Jackie uses her stove and 2 additional 2 burner hot plates for her dying sessions.Those are stainless steel food grade pans - this is serious dying paraphernalia - the addition of citric acid requires only the best of equipment.

Here's a three stage multi-dye sample on a winter white wool. First step - boysenberry.
Second step - some plum swirled into the mix.
And third step some yellow to tone it all down.
Let's say it together - - - ohhhhh, ahhhhh!!! Dying is so addictive!
Thanks for the tutorial Jackie! If you'd like to get your hands on some of her wools and are local to the Philly area you can find it at Chester County Quilting in Phoenixville.

Rear View

2011-02-07T20:26:00.002-05:00

These pillows are just as pretty from the back as they are from the front - - - you'll have to take my word on that since I'm not showing the front - sorry - - - later.

I whipped up three pillows today using this fantastic little technique I found on Sew Mama Sew a few days ago - - - it is "sew" simple!

The little flap hides a zipper. Here I've used a main fabric featuring fun little bicycles, and an accent fabric for the flap.
On this example I used three different fabrics to create the back - - - honestly, you could use this side of the pillow and get rave reviews. The technique includes the use of fusing tape to simplify the zipper insertion process.
And, here's a more sedate example - again using three different fabrics. The Sew, Mama Sew site has a lot of great pillow hints!

Wondering what happened with all of that binding from yesterday - - - phewwww!!! Every inch of it has been sewn onto its respective quilt - - - I'm dizzy! I've got tons of binding ideas to exchange with you when I have time to write them all down - - - soon, I promise!

Super Bowl Yardage Record

2011-02-06T19:48:00.003-05:00

Yup - that's a whole bunch of yardage - - - enough for the 10 quilts in the queue awaiting finishing - - - right about now the Steelers would love this yardage.

Thank heavens for continuous binding - whipped this stash up in less than 4 hours yesterday - - - I was a machine! Today and tomorrow - - - getting it onto the quilts - - - yippee!!! I took a bunch of pictures for the special little things I do to simplify making continuous binding - - - soon - - - soon I promise I will re-visit binding to give you my tips for making the easiest binding ever!!!

And in celebration of the Super Bowl - - - RIBS!!! This year I'm passing on the standard gooey barbecue ribs drenched in sauce in pursuit of something different - - - Coconut Barbecue Ribs. Baby back pork ribs are steamed first (the steaming gives up a lot of the fat making a fairly fatty meat a smitch leaner), then marinated in a bath of deliciously infused coconut milk - seasoned with cilantro, shallots, garlic, lemon grass, ginger, brown sugar and soy sauce. I couldn't find any fresh lemon grass but this stuff in the tube was an acceptable replacement.
I used the lite coconut milk - no sacrifice in flavor and far fewer calories.
Wondering what my ginger is resting on??? That's a ginger grater.
I like to peel the ginger before grating - then you just rub the ginger nub over the rough surface, and, presto - beautifully grated ginger.
The hairy strands are left behind - do you think you could weave those into fabric???
These ribs were fantastic - so tender and full of flavor. I saved half of the marinade to try with chicken thighs later this week.
I made a light salad to accompany the ribs - don't you love my maroon carrots - super high in beta carotene, and so beautiful in a salad.
Go Steelers!!! - - - Loving the commercials!!!

Opening Night at Jenkins

2011-02-05T09:52:00.003-05:00

It was Opening Night of Celebrating Nature's Beauty in Stitches at Jenkins Arboretum last night and what a lovely evening it was! I love how this photo shows the reflection of the quilts in the massive windows of the visitors center. Unfortunately the arboretum is open only during daylight hours, so if you missed the opening, you missed the chance to appreciate the reflections.

The collection of quilts selected for the show is impressive - this wall in the main room features quilts by one of the feature artists, Barbara Persing - notice the lighting, particularly the Gum Blossom quilt in the upper right hand corner - rectangular lighting to really highlight the quilt - the staff at the Arboretum is so professional!This wall in the main room features a collection of quilts by another feature artist, BJ Titus,
and the quilts on this wall were created by a variety of quilters selected for the show.
Bargain tip - entrance to the arboretum and quilt show is free; not to mention, the show booklet is only $5 and contains great photos of all of the quilts in the show.

Viewing Tip: the quilt Seasons of Pollination by the Longwood Gardens Quilters (pictured above) is hanging on the giant windows in the board room. When you view this quilt during daylight hours it appears as though it is gridded - why - - - because the daylight illuminates the seam allowances creating a shadowing effect, adding a completely new dimension to the beauty of this stunning quilt.

Bobbin Busting Day

2011-02-04T08:20:00.005-05:00

Ahhhh - Bobbin Busting - it feels so good!!! You know how good you feel when you whittle away the excess accumulation of coins from your wallet - - - well it can feel that rewarding to pare down your bobbin collection.

All the machine quilting I've been doing lately has given me the perfect opportunity to use up those almost empty bobbins I've been neglecting . Look at these five bobbins in my collection, each containing a little more than a smitch of thread - too much thread to discard, but just enough to expel them from the machine when you're turbo quilting and don't want to run out of bobbin thread mid-motif. But five brown, almost empty, bobbins - what was I thinking???

I keep all of my bobbins in this cute little box - upcycled from it's original use as stationary packaging. Look at the collection of mis-matched bobbins - - - it's time for a spring cleaning - - - that being said, it's time for spring, period!

It was a successful bobbin busting day - - - look at all of the bobbins I set free - - - and this doesn't include the five brown bobbins above which today stand empty and ready to receive their next assignment.

Quick Reminder for Local Readers: Tonight is the opening of the quilt show at Jenkins Arboretum in Wayne, PA - Celebrating Nature's Beauty in Stitches. I had the opportunity to juror this show - first time ever as a juror, an interesting experience. The show includes works from 3 feature quilt artists and numerous works from other local quilt artists as well. Word of advise - parking is quite limited at the arboretum! The show runs through February 28th, and the arboretum is open daily 9AM - 4 PM. There is a lovely show catalog available for a $5 donation, otherwise, the show is free to all.

Bamboozled!

2011-02-03T07:59:00.008-05:00

I've been bamboozled - - - again - - - twice - - - and I don't like it at all!!!

The culprit - bamboo batting - that "go green" alternative to cotton - - - but wait - am I going "batty" - - - isn't cotton green too??? Why do I need bamboo to be green???

Details on the culprit: batting that consists of a blend of 50% bamboo rayon and 50% organic cotton - - - makes me feel green all over - - - saving the planet with every stitch I take - right?

The scenario - When I quilt I pull all my threads to the top of the quilt and leave them there until I'm finished - - then, when I'm good and ready, and have American Idol to distract me from the boredom - I sit quietly and bury those threads into the batting.

Here are the leftovers from last night's burial - look at all of that batting in the threads - it was a mess!!! This was King Tut thread - a good quality thread that has never pulled the batting of 100% cotton batting.

Before I could thread my burying needle I had to strip the thread strands of accumulated batting - - - a big mess!!!
And, yes, I said "again - - - twice". Here's quilt # two where I was battered by bamboo batting. I was planning on adding chicken scratch quilting using a fine cross stitch needle and a 3 strand silk thread for the chicken scratch - I've used this same thread many times with complete success with cotton batting. I even conditioned the thread with Thread Magic to make it super smooth. Look what happened - - - the thread emerged from the fabric pulling with it that darn bamboo - - - that's what's called "bearding".
When I tried to pull the bamboo batting it just kept coming out - - - I could have spun a thread of bamboo fiber.
Kermit the Frog should have said "it's not complicated being green" - - - stick with cotton, don't get bamboozled into thinking you have to change to be greener - - - cotton batting is cheaper and it won't ruin your quilt with bearding.

Show Time!

2011-02-02T08:13:00.004-05:00

Sneak peek- - - Celebrating Nature's Beauty in Stitches is opening at the Jenkin's Arboretum Friday evening - - - here's a great collage created by the staff at the Arboretum for their Facebook page featuring a glimpse of some of the amazing quilts in the show - - - it's going to be a great show!
Yes, Mother Nature threw the set up crew a curve ball yesterday by blanketing the grounds of the arboretum with ice - - but the show must go on!
The room was stripped bare and ready to receive the quilts - sure it was nasty outside, but beautiful all the same.
The fantastic staff at the Arboretum, Steve and Carla, climbed up and down the ladders hanging all of the beautiful quilts in the show - - - the piece of a show you as a visitor never have the chance to appreciate - - - setting up a quilt show is hard work!!! Many thanks to the two of them for all of their dedication to creating a beautiful show for us to enjoy.
The show opens this Friday and will run through February 27, 2011. The Arboretum is open daily 9 AM - 4 PM, and entrance to the arboretum is free. Many of the quilts are available for purchase.

"Safety" Pin - Seriously???

2011-01-27T18:40:00.003-05:00

How??? What??? Seriously!?!?! I don't see anything "safe" about this situation.

I was quilting at warp speed today - in that hypnotic trance where you, the quilt and the sewing machine are moving as one - then that "safety" pin jumped out right in front of me and - - - POW - - - it became impaled on the machine's needle. Never did this before!!!
I'll blame the pin stabbing on my poor aching back, shoulders and hands - - - all the shoveling and snow blowing have taken a toll on my quilting form. Perhaps you haven't heard about the storm - - - the one that dumped 18 inches of the white stuff yesterday - - - it's beautiful, if all you have to do is look at it.
Oh - - - more snow tomorrow - just when I thought we had enough!
Enough, seriously!

Getting My Feathers Ruffled

2011-01-25T18:48:00.003-05:00

Arghhhh!!!

I am busy with a quilting project - and, yes, I'm attempting feathers again - - - arghhhh!!!

I'm doing as much plucking as sewing!!!

It's a Wrap!

2011-01-21T09:42:00.006-05:00

I found this new notion earlier this week at Hinkletown Sewing - Wrap and Fuse Piping by Clover. I've been toying with adding piping to a current project so I thought why not give it a try. If you're curious, I paid $5.25 for 2 meters.

It's simply piping encased in fusible.
What could go wrong - - - I'll tell you what could go wrong - - - fusible and my brand, new iron - - - yikes!!! I like living on the edge! I buy cheap irons - they never last for me - this is a Classic from Black and Decker.
The instructions called for using a strip of bias cut fabric - I read that after I used a non-bias cut and was determined to plow forward despite my inability to follow instructions as written. All you do is wrap the fabric strip around the fusible, pin, pin the wrapped piping to your ironing board, and iron the flat edge, avoiding the piping.
Perfect, and no goo on my new iron - even more perfect! This is what you end up with - a perfectly wrapped piping. And it worked fine with the non-bias cut fabric strip!
I sewed it into place using my zipper foot - keep in mind - this is just a sample. The zipper foot worked just fine.
And, presto! It works beautifully! I am very impressed with this product - I actually hope they make a few different sizes - this gives a 3/16'' piping. It certainly gets the thread from the edge seal of approval!

I'll tell you what else gets my seal of approval - the menu from last night's meal plan - - - Fettuccine with Mushrooms and Hazelnuts - - - it was delicious!!! I made a few changes to cut the calories a smitch without sacrificing any flavor - - - I roasted the hazelnuts in the oven without any butter, and was able to decrease the fat by half. I also only used half the cheese they suggested - it was more than enough cheese and really shaved off excess calories. I served it with a simple salad - delicious and filling, and so quick and easy!

Tag - You're It!

2011-01-19T20:47:00.003-05:00

I'm giving all the credit to Kit Lang from Diva Quilts for this link - she posted it at her blog today and after being completely mesmerized by the site I knew I had to share it too.

The site is called Tag Galaxy- it is such a fun way to wander through the virtual world in photos - you will love it. When you get to the site it will ask you for your first tag search - type in "quilt" - when your galaxy appears, click on the center orb for random photos of quilts, or click on one of the rotating planets to explore other aspects of quilting.

Following the menu plan for the week - I'm giving a thumbs down to last night's dinner - the Chicken Fried Rice with Leeks and Cranberries - sorry - just not good - too many cranberries and not enough chicken. Tonight's dinner - Roasted Root Vegetable Hash with Parsley Pesto and Poached Eggs was delicious - two thumbs way up!

Laura's Biscotti

2011-01-18T11:12:00.003-05:00

This is my good friend Laura - she makes the best biscotti you ever tasted. A few years ago she turned her talent for biscotti baking into a cottage industry, Laura's Biscotti, - - -
making the most delicious biscotti for all to enjoy - - - she makes great granola as well!
Diane, another good friend, has been Laura's baking buddy in the kitchen, but is moving on to start her student teaching (Congrats Di - What an achievement! Di is also the author of a very thought provoking blog - A Subject for Consideration - check it out!)). Di enlisted my help to accent her "leaving the kitchen" gift to Laura - oven mitts that don't walk (they work in a shared kitchen). My assignment - to embroider "Laura's Biscotti" on the mitts - well - that was impossible - they were too thick and there was no way to hoop them without dismantling them. Solution - embroider "Laura's Biscotti" onto another piece of fabric and sew that fabric on to the mitts!

I used black stabilizer since I was using black fabric.

And, while the machine was up and running, I decided to throw in an apron - I always keep extra chef's aprons in my stash - they make great gifts!
She's all set to impress! Sewing the fabric to the mitts was not easy - they are sewn on the upper and lower edges but I simply could not sew the side - fusible to the rescue. She can show them off to my guild members - she bakes in her church's commercial kitchen, and my guild is going to start meeting in the same church, right next to the kitchen - the aroma of the biscotti is going to drive us crazy! FYI - she does internet sales!!!
Here's an update on menu plan for the week - check back in at Sunday's post for all of the details. The Bacon-Flower Soup from Aarti was incredible - will make time and again - really delicious. I served it with a crunchy salad - - -
and this terrific onion focaccia from Martha's Everyday Food.
FYI - the plates and bowls are from Willi Singleton - love his work!

Boston Bandit

2011-01-17T09:15:00.005-05:00

Boston in January - yuk!!! Sorry Boston - but this just isn't pretty! I was in Boston this past weekend taking my daughter back to college and this was what greeted us - and winter has just begun.
The welcome wagon didn't stop with the disgustingly dirty snow and unplowed roads - - - oh, no - - - while she and her roommates were home for the holidays their apartment was burglarized - they kicked down doors, took the TV and rummaged through all of their belongings. Welcome to Boston! Both of my girls are back at college now - the house is so quiet - I really miss the chaos!

My trip was not a complete loss. I'd been planning for sometime to visit some quilt shops that are located on my route from Philly to Boston, and I finally had the time this trip to fit in a few stops. One shop in particular was really great - The Quilter's Alley in Ridgefield, Connecticut, outside of Danbury, just minutes off of Route 84. It's not a big shop, but it has lots of personality, and a fantastic collection of contemporary fabric and imported fabric. I purchased this interesting Japanese fabric - a rich dark cocoa punctuated by circle motifs and the occasional leaf. I'm showing the clothespin so you get an idea of the scale of the print.

Here's a close up - the texture is beautiful - very reminiscent of bark cloth. I wish I knew who made it!
I also bought yardage of this beautiful fabric by Marie Kelzer for Westminster Fibers.
They also carried the full (or near full) line of RJR solids - I cannot find that in any of my local quilt shops - they have the nicest hand of all of the solids. I really need the swatch card for the RJR solids so I can order them on-line - - - I e-mailed RJR to see how I can get my hands on one - - - will let you know! I bought yardage of gray to finish a baby quilt.

And, I'm trying a new thread - WonderFil Konfetti - their 50 weight - in a neutral gray. The shop owner gave it her highest endorsement. This was my first stop at this shop, but not my last - they had such a beautiful collection of fabric that, despite the quantity of quilt shops in my area, I just can't find this eclectic collection close to home. Unfortunately they do not have on-line sales.
What am I going to do with this fabric - not sure - as soon as I decide you'll be the first to know!

Gotta go - need to make my dough for the Onion Focaccia for dinner tonight - you can cook along - just visit my Sunday post for the recipes all week long.

The King's Walls - - - Speech

2011-01-16T19:21:00.003-05:00

I saw the King's Speech today - it was magnificent - Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush were amazing in their roles. The other standout for me was the set designer. Did you see it - - - did you notice the walls??? The wall treatment and the wallpapers were so beautiful - - - they could turn everyone of them into a fabric and I'd buy it! I'm all set for the Golden Globes tonight - and yes, I really hope the King's Speech takes a few home.

I'm focusing on cooking for today's post - a week's worth of dinners featuring relatively light and healthy options. I'll admit I haven't tried most of these recipes - but I will be following the meal plan this week and will give you my opinion on each recipe. Eat along if you like! Many of the recipes come from the January / February Cooking Light - it's that time of year - I've got to cut the calories and find some physical activity to do despite the snow - arghhhh!

Sunday: Celery Root Bisque and Beet, Blood Orange, Kumquat and Quinoa Salad. We had this tonight and loved the salad, but were not crazy about the soup.
Monday: Bacon-Flower Soup from Aarti of the Food Network and Onion Focaccia (from this month's Everyday Food - recipe not available on line)
Tuesday: Chicken Fried Rice with Leeks and Dried Cranberries
Wednesday: Root Vegetable Hash with Poached Eggs and Parsley Pesto
Thursday: Fettuccine with Mushrooms and Hazelnuts, Tossed Salad
Friday: Dinner out!!! After all, I cooked all week!!!

Heavy Metal

2011-01-13T12:11:00.010-05:00

The December / January issue of Quilting Arts magazine has an article on Metal as a Surface Embellishment by Mary Hettmansperger, the third in a series - I'll admit I didn't see the first two. Seeing the article made me dig out an experimental piece I did a few years ago - - -

Right - 2007 - - - February 2007. It was a mini quilting challenge to create a small piece out of non-fabric materials. I embraced the challenge and had something in mind from the minute it was announced.
About a year before I had purchased this beautiful lamp on Ocracoke Island, off the coast of North Carolina. I don't remember the name of the artist who created it but I just love it. It's in my powder room, and yes, those are still Christmas decorations to the left - - - I'm moving kinda slow this year getting them put away.
Here's a close up of the shade, oxidized metal mesh, held in place with brass brads. The whole process intrigued me - this was my inspiration.
Here are 7 of the 9 "blocks" I made for the challenge entry - originally I had them mounted on black wool off-set by a contrasting bronze synthetic fabric. I wasn't too happy with 2 of the blocks so I dismantled it and will reset it some day.
Here's a closer look at the blocks and how I created them. Many of the materials I used were borrowed from my husband's work bench. This square of brass mesh is topped by another metal mesh, held in place by some wire from his bag of electrical tricks.
This is the wire mesh I used for the background - I used a brass mesh for all of the blocks, the copper mesh is still in the package, but I assure you, not for long!
And, yes, it performs as advertised - you can cut it (not with your fabric shears, please), and sew it - with your sewing machine (I used a 90 needle). It is so cool!
This block is set up like a 9 patch, and features another cool metallic product - - -
Leaf metal - adhered to the wire mesh, and sewn into place. The center is a brass eye.
Here's a block using more of the larger mesh, leaf metal and - - -
The unexpected, peacock feathers woven into the metal mesh.
I love this block - why - the fuses - those little cylinders tied to the background with wire - they are so interesting. I oxidized the brass mesh for this block, giving the rainbow like coloration.
How do you achieve the oxidation - my creme brulee torch to the rescue! You can't be functionally fixated - you need to find multiple uses for your stuff! What a great use for the torch!
Be careful if you plan on giving this a try - these torches get white hot!
Here's a sample of the brass mesh oxidized.
And, here is the copper mesh - I love this one - I can see a new series of blocks made from the copper mesh to compliment the brass blocks.
This block uses those cute little gear-like washers and brass brads.
There are so many cool supplies at the hardware store that translate into this application - I've just begun to scratch the surface.
Don't forget to explore metal sewing and craft supplies!
This block features snaps! THe white mesh is drywall repair mesh.
Snaps come in all sizes and colors, rivets are fun too!
And for this last block I picked used a picture hanger, on the front - it's interesting.
I loved the challenge 4 years ago and this article has inspired me to re-visit my fascination with metal and sewing - the possibilities are so intriguing.

Print Gocco + Extras!

2011-01-11T10:48:00.007-05:00

A few years back at Quilting by the Lake I had Natasha Kempers Cullen as an instructor - she was excellent - a lot of what I do today with my quilting was inspired by snippets I learned in her week long class. Natasha introduced me to Print Gocco - kind of like the Polaroid of silk screening - immediate gratification - who doesn't love that? My prized possession - - -

To the best of my knowledge and research, they no longer manufacture the Print Gocco - you can buy them off Ebay - at astronomical prices. Every now and again someone will start a web campaign to bring them back, but thus far there has been little success. Supplies are still available through Northwoods Studio. The Print Gocco was basically the predecessor to the Yudu. It works great on both paper and fabric.

So what does the Print Gocco involve - - - here is a framed screen - 4.25'' x 6'' - it's not very big, but it has a lot of possibilities. When I bought my Gocco this was the only screen available, now Northwood Studios carries screen on rolls, allowing you to print larger images. With standard silk screening you either need access to a thermofax machine (the machine every school in America had in the 60's - it printed purple, and the smell was addicting) or a high wattage light and perfect conditions to burn a screen. When I burn large screens I use the high watt light method - it's a fickle beast.

Print Gocco uses flash bulbs - yup- they still make them - old fashioned flash bulbs. All it takes is one flash from 2 bulbs and the screen is burned in nano-seconds. Black and white photocopies work great for images - this screen is going to feature the Norse alphabet from my daughter's design concept.

Here's the machine all set to print - honestly, it reminds me of my Easy Bake Oven, same color and all.
This is a framed screen poised for burning.
When the lid closes, the flash bulbs go off and you are left with a perfectly burned screen - pretty cool!
I'm borrowing this design to embellish my Moleskine calendar for the year - I need something to jazz it up a bit.
I taped the screen to the top of the calendar, it's leather - hope the paint adheres to the leather, maybe I should test it??? Nah - what could go wrong - - -
Applied some silver Speedball paint - - -
Used a palette knife to spread the paint - - -
And presto - my Moleskine - - - my way! Perfect! Nothing went wrong, finally!

Extra - - - Yesterday I told you all about the great Art Ability Show at Bryn Mawr Rehab - today I want to make another suggestion - Craft Forms at Wayne Art Center - and it too is ending soon, January 22. The feature artist is Christopher Ries, glass artist extraordinaire! Yup - that's me - peeking through one of his pieces.

His egg is simply magnificent! See the small ball at the top of the egg - it's the world. You could stare at this piece all day.

And the fiber art is well represented at the show - this is an amazing piece, Plus Blue, by Terry Jarrard Diamond - it is hung on the the center back wall of the large gallery and demands your attention the minute you enter the gallery - striking, and hung at a place of honor!
Other fiber artists recognized at the show include: Marlene Ferrell Parillo, Annie Helmericks Louder, Lori Lupe Pelish (she entered a rug hooking, not a quilt!), Lisa Call, Laura Breitman (fabric collage, no stitching), Joyce Gelick, Sandra Rude (weaving), Karen Henderson, and Barbara Walter ( a very cool leaf!).

If you go take note of my 2 favorite non-fiber pieces - Danny Kamerath's chairs and Aram Moon's Mr. X's Wonderful Glasses.

Art-Ability

2011-01-09T19:20:00.004-05:00

The annual Art-Ability show is in it's last week at the Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital in Malvern, PA. All participants in this show suffer with either cognitive, physical, hearing or visual disabilities. The collection of artists this year spans the globe and includes artists close to home and world-wide, featuring 182 artists and 7 countries.

I want to take this opportunity to feature some of my favorite pieces from the judged collection this year. First let me say - there were no fiber entrees - hmmmm? This was as close as the collection got to fiber - and a beauty it is - The Fourth of July by Beth Livingston (I'm not linking you to Beth's website as Norton Security does not like her site) of Montana. Beth is paralyzed from the waist down, and in addition to being an accomplished artist, she is also an Olympic athlete.The red stripes are all wooden spools of red thread.

My obsession lately has been everything and anything "outsider" folk art - this topic will take an entire post to address. This amazing piece by Allison Merriweather from Texas called Harmony Prevails is an excellent example of this form of folk art. I love her color palette, especially accented by the blue frame.

Birches, by Jen Dacota of Florida is captivating - Jen works with tar, wax and oils to create her pieces. She suffered a stroke which affected her vision, concentration and comprehension - art is her therapy.

I love this piece, Internal Conflict, by Stephen Gibson (no website) of California. Stephen has multiple disabilities. His work is created by setting self-imposed sets of rules for the materials he uses, how those materials are applied and the rhythm and pattern for each color. For me it is the subject and grid pattern that I find so interesting in this piece.

For me, Please Don't Get Up by Carol Spilker (no website) of Delaware is all about color and calm. She is paralyzed from the waist down. I find the imagery in this work calming despite the vibrant and lively colors palette.

And finally, this piece, The Lough, by local artist Mark McLaughlin (no website). This is a pen and ink drawing - painstakingly detail oriented - a true feat when you consider Mark cannot walk or stand for longer than one hour.

I was also blown away by the work of Siddhartha and Sriharsha Sulka of India. Their works, and there are quite a few example of them in the show, are done in paper collage - exceptional paper collage. Sorry, I don't have any photos of them.

The show is only open for one more week, closing January 16th - if you're in the Philadelphia area it is definitely worth the drive to visit the exhibit.

Swatch Mama!

2011-01-09T13:21:00.006-05:00

Those of you who read my blog regularly know that my youngest daughter, Olivia, is a fashion design student at Parsons School of Design in NYC. Over her break she has been working on some homework - a new collection inspired by wooden Viking churches and writings from the 14th century - seriously.

This is the start of the collection. On the left are swatches of the fabrics she plans to feature in her garments - the nice people at Elegant Fabrics in NYC cut swatches for these fashion students all day long. The illustrated black and white design patterns will be featured in some way, shape or form in her collection - some as lace, others as print. And finally, the croquis, the drawing of the model wearing her garments. There is a fine art to drawing a croquis correctly - communicating the age, style and attitude of the collection. I love her design patterns for this collection, especially the Norse Rune Alphabet - I'm silk screening that for her.

She wants to feature some knits in this collection as accessories - this is where I come in. Liv knows how to knit, but her stitch knowledge is limited to the basics. Yesterday she found my Knitting and Crochet Bible by Claire Crompton and Sue Whiting - an excellent resource for all of your knitting and crocheting questions. She picked out three stitches, bought some cheap variegated yarn and then turned to me for the swatches - I don't mind - it's fun to practice your stitches as small swatches.

This is a swatch of the blind buttonhole stitch,

Here is the Bramble Stitch,
interesting as well from the back.
And finally, the Popcorn Pattern.

I'd love to say that she gets her talent from me, but I'm just not that talented. Later this week I'll share the silk screen with you.

The Most Interesting Man in the World

2011-01-07T09:22:00.004-05:00

Kyle - our nephew - his secret identity revealed.

Indulge me for today's post - I just have to acknowledge the most interesting man in the world!

Check out the side bar to my blog and you'll see listed as one of my inspirational links "Kyle's Africa Experience". Last year Kyle, the most interesting man in the world, decided to step out of the advertising rat race to donate his time and talent to World Teach. He left it all behind - the job, the lifestyle of a handsome 20-something professional in Chicago, the comforts of home, and the basic necessities of life - running water, electricity, and the internet.

He's been stationed in Northern Namibia, in the Ohangwena Region, for the past year, teaching 6th grade. There are no white boards in his school, no computer labs; as a matter of fact, books are a hot commodity. His blog - I'm Not A Writer I Just Blog A Lot - gives a blow, by blow account of his experience.

Kyle's commitment to World Teach was one year - and after reading his blog narrating some of his hair raising adventures you can imagine that those of us who find him, not only interesting, but an essential component to our family, were anxious to get him back in the US of A in 2011. Not so fast - Kyle is opting in for year two - the lure of a foam mattress on the floor, cockroach infestation, the annual flood, inconsistent power and water supply, and intestinal blight is too attractive to resist - and he is going back.

What a guy - in fact the most interesting guy in the world - - - he lives vicariously through himself!

His charm is so contagious vaccines were created for it! Vaccines and antibiotics are his friend - he's gonna need a boat load of them to rid his body of the families of microbes that have taken up residence.

Kyle - he has crossed the point of no return on several occasions. Namibia is home to the black mamba deadly snake. It is a frequent visitor to his remote village, located 20 minutes from the nearest health care facility by car - when the car is working. He thinks we find this information comforting - not!

He once visited a psychic to warn her - unfortunately he did not heed her warning about the "flood fish" - he ate them - let's just say parasites find him as captivating as the world does.

He once had an awkward moment just to see how it feels - it involved eating bugs - caterpillars, ants and cicadas - some live! I hear they're high in protein.

Once the eye of a hurricane winked at him - and then there was that older woman in the village as well - awkward!

When he looks in the mirror his reflection gives him a thumbs up - it's the chest hair!

Stay thirsty my friend! Be safe and well in your journey, your home away from home; and know that we admire your dedication and commitment to make a difference in this world we call home.

For more fun Dos Equis quotes visit: The Most Interesting Man in the World.

Comfort Food and Cut-Outs

2011-01-06T10:18:00.002-05:00

My daughters are home from college so I like to cook a lot of comfort food meals - nothing says comfort like turkey. Typically post-holiday we are filled to the gills with turkey leftovers but this year for Christmas I prepared hams instead of turkey - I was just too busy - and when you're cooking for close to 40 the easy button is very appealing.

Since we were all missing our dose of holiday turkey I prepared these delicious stuffed turkey thighs for dinner last night - from the current issue of Fine Cooking. They were quite simple to throw together and so delicious.
I admit I didn't follow the stuffing recipe - but opted instead to create my own with some great sour dough bread, cranberries, celery, onions and bacon - sprinkled liberally with rubbed sage and thyme.
Now for the cut-outs - - - I found this artist as I was stumbling about on line last night and just had to share him with you - Peter Callesen. His work is simply amazing - it took me over an hour to browse through his website. You can feel the emotion attached to some of his works - they are so moving. It's scherenschnitte on steroids. I would love to see a stop motion video of his work - I looked but couldn't find any.

In With the New

2011-01-05T15:36:00.005-05:00

I've added a new tool to my quilting arsenal - the Spiral Eye Needle - and, I LOVE IT!!!

When I machine quilt I leave all of my threads on top until I am finished - then I have the tangled up task of taking those threads and burying them into the batting. I never knot on the back of my quilts, never. To date, I have always used cheater needles to help in the burial of my threads - those needles with the pop-in opening at the head of the needle. They've served me well over the years but at times they have been a tinch stubborn to work with - the "pop-in" doesn't always go as smoothly as advertised - often time it turns into a shredding party. Another flaw with the design is that "what pops-in" may just "pop-out" before you like, allowing your threads to escape and wreak havoc cavorting with the other threads.

These new spiral needles are fantastic - no more pop-in. Now you simply slide the thread along the side of the eye of the needle and it loops into the spiral - perfect! I love them!!! The spiral opening does not catch on the fabric while stitching. They are a bit pricey - $8.99 for 2 size 8 sharps at The Hayloft in Morgantown - the only place that stocks them (I requested they order them in!). If you have a chance, visit the Spiral Eye website - the story behind them is quite interesting.

They needed a place of honor in my sewing room - I've assigned them to the newest pin cushion in my collection - a cute needle felted watermelon half that my sister-in-law gave me for Christmas - Thanks Susan!