Halloween Project I

Get an early start on a quick Halloween project!

This fast and easy wallhanging was mystery quilt 3 on Quilting Passion. There are many examples of finished projects so to give you an idea of how to begin yours. There are several options available; keep it simple or add more dimension.

Should you decide to make this project, please provide a finished photograph so that I can add it to my gallery? It would be greatly appreciated!

Also, be on the lookout for more Halloween (and non-Halloween) projects before the end of October!

All comments and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated!

September Door Decor

Well, the day is almost over and I removed my 09/11 quilted door decors and replaced it with September. The photo shown is as you come up onto my front porch.

The no-sew applique instructions done in the top placemat are found in the article directly beneath this one. The bottom placemat was one that I purchased already appliqued.

September Project of the Month

"NO-SEW" APPLIQUÉ WALLHANGING
Each month, I am going to try to provide a quick and easy project. There will sometimes be options available for the projects and one can make these as simple, or complex, as time and energy allows. Some of these projects (such as this one!) would make an inexpensive, but very cute, gift.

The project of the month (POM) for September is a "September" wallhanging. It is simple, fast, and inexpensive! This project costs about $5 and took me about 20 minutes. It is important to note that this no-sew appliqué project is highly adaptable to any season, holiday, month, or occasion. The fabric does most of the work!

This summer, a deck was built across the front of my home and each month I hang some type of "quilt" (loosely used!) to the right of my front door (and sometimes the left, if I need the room!). This can easily be seen when anyone comes to my door and it serves as a "welcome" greeting. I change, what I call "the door decor", my quilt on the first day of each month.

The September door decor can easily be made with no sewing! If you choose, however, you could finish it off by either hand- or machine-appliqué. I am choosing not to sew mine for several reasons. Why would I choose not to finish mine off by sewing? 1) Because of its location, it is subject to the elements of the weather, so I do not want to invest a lot of time, energy, and money on something that I do not yet know how long will last (time will tell!), 2) Because I make several of these and the less I have to do, the better!, and 3) I plan on using this same project for October by utilizing the back side of the finished wallhanging. I also save my sewing time for higher priority projects.

Read through this project before beginning! I learned a few things as my first project went along and share them throughout this page.

Supplies needed for this project are (I have about $5-$6 invested in each of mine):

1) Sewing supplies (needle, thread, scissors, etc.).
2) 1 large bow (either handmade or purchased; mine is purchased and has fall leaves and colors on it).
3) 1 placemat, any color that you want for "September" to represent. My placemat came pre-quilted, and it did effect the wallhanging, somewhat. Since you will be ironing on fusible webbing, the appliqué does not adhere as well if there is a texture (I really pressed all of the nooks and crannies to make sure it stuck). If you plan on sewing (appliquéing) the things onto your quilt, then the texture would need to be considered for your hands or sewing machine. It is also important that the placemat be able to withstand heat, since you will be ironing the surface of it. Mine is also forest green.
4) 1/8 (or less!) yard of a fabric that says "September" (either fall or school-related). This fabric should have a smaller-scale print, if any. Mine is of fall leaves.
5) 1/8 (or less!) yard of a second fabric that says "September" to you. This fabric should have a large-scale print (you can "fussy cut" it). Mine is a geometric design with sunflowers.
6) Some type of double-sided fusible webbing (about 1/2 yard will do... if you have leftover, you can use it for October!).
7) The "September" appliqué pattern (or you can print off one using a different font). The pattern provided disappointed me when placed upon my project. It is too hard to read, and in the future, I will probably use a different font for the months/words that have quite a few letters of the alphabet.

To make the project:

1) Trace the pattern onto the paper side of the fusible webbing.
2) Press the fusible webbing pattern onto the WRONG side of the smaller-scale fabric. Mine is a fabric with small-scale fall leaves on it.
3) Cut each letter of "September" out carefully.
4) Roughly plan your layout for the project. I am placing my bow in the top, left corner and the lettering scattered horizontally along the placemat. The longest parts of the placemat are the top and bottom of your project, by the way.
5) Once you get an idea of the layout, you'll then know how much of the second, large-scale, fabric to use. "Fussy cut" motifs or patterns from this fabric. Mine is a coordinating fabric to the first, with fall leaves and sunflowers. Mine also has geometric designs (squares) surrounding the sunflowers and this looked perfect for me to use. Cut enough to satisfy the layout.
6) Follow the directions on the fusible webbing to press all of the fabric pieces into place. The bow goes on last, however, I simply laid it in place while I adjusted the other pieces to get an overall idea of what the finished project would look like.
7) At this point, you can choose to appliqué these pieces, by either hand or machine, in place if you want.
8) Attach the bow! Mine is pinned on from the back using a safety pin. That way, I can reuse this bow in October and November.

Since mine is outside, I merely use small tacks to attach it to the house. This would easily hang indoors using straight pins. You could also attach ribbons to the ends and the middle or sew on hanging rings.

Voilà! The project is finished.

I certainly hope that you enjoy making this one. I would love photos to share if you do! Thank you!

This project can be found in its entirety on Quilting Passion. All comments and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Also, I would love to have a photo of this project finished, if you would like to share!

Recycled Pillowcase Apron Project

My aunt Fern dearly loves making aprons! At our family reunion tonight, I was honored by her gifting me with a handmade apron made from a vintage pillowcase. As she described her sewing project, how fast and easy it was, it dawned on me that this would make a great project. So, without further ado, here are the instructions!

NOTE: The length of the ties and the width of the pillowcase may vary, dependent upon the size/build of the person that is going to be wearing it. Make allowances as needed.

SUPPLIES NEEDED:
* 1 pillowcase (the photo shown above is of an old pillowcase that my aunt purchased at a yard sale for a quarter!),
* 1 washcloth (new or used!),
* 2 strips of pillowcase (use several to piece into this measurement, if needed) that measures approximately 2.5" x 26". These are the ties.
* 1 strip of the pillowcase (use several to piece into this measurement, if needed) that measures approximately 3" x 20". This is the waistband.
* General sewing supplies, i.e. thread, sewing machine, iron, scissors, etc.

First, cut a corner off of the washcloth. Measure in from the outside corner approximately 4.5" - 5" from both directions and cut off the triangle formed. (You can wait to do this later if you're unsure about how much you want to cut off.)

Second, remove the side and bottom seams from the pillowcase. If you are lazy like me, I would simply cut it, instead of removing the stitches. :)

Third, note that in the photo above, the TOP of the pillowcase is the BOTTOM of the apron. That hem is already sewn for you, so all that needs done is to trim the pillowcase. Trim to approximately (see the note above) 19" x 38". This allows for 1/4" seam allowances. I might mention that my apron is quite wide. I wear a size 10, but it would even fit a plus size.

Fourth, turn each of the sides under (twice, so as to have pretty hem with no fraying) and topstitch into place.

Fifth, take one of the pieces of fabric to be used for a tie and fold it in half with wrong sides together, lengthwise. Stitch 1/4" across the short end and around the long edge. Be sure to leave one end open! Do this for both ties. Turn the "tubes" right side out and press.

Sixth, take the waistband fabric and fold it in half with wrong sides together, lengthwise. Lay a tie at each end (with the unfinished edge of the tie on the waistband), being very careful that when you turn it back to the right side, that the tie is going to be going in the direction opposite of the waistband! Stitch 1/4" across each of the ends. Leave the length open, at this point. Turn it right side out and press. It is a good idea, at this point, to go ahead and press the 1/4" seams flat across the width, even though it is not yet sewn. This makes it easier to attach to the apron when the time comes. You should have a semi-finished waistband with the ties that is pretty long! If it is short, check the direction those ties are going.

It is important to note here that perfection is not expected. If the waistband is a tad wider than the tie, no one will call the sewing police. And if the recipient of the gift complains, take it back and give it to someone who appreciates it!

Seventh, baste a "gathering" stitch across the raw edge (the top of the apron) approximately 1/4" in. Gather this to approximately 19" wide (which is about one-half of the width of the bottom of the apron).

Eighth, take the raw edge (with the triangle cut off) of the washcloth and sew it with a 1/4" seam onto the apron (on top of the gathers). Measure approximately 4" in from the outer edge of the apron for placement.

Ninth, carefully "snug" the gathered edge of the apron up into the "pressed under, open" seam of the waistband. Pin this in place. Either topstitch it down or whipstitch it in place (mine is hand-whip stitched!).

Voila! The apron is finished.

Please keep in mind that the measurements given are only suggestions and that adjustments should be made based upon who is going to be wearing it. Also keep in mind that I did not make this apron; merely took notes as my aunt described the process. So, if you find an error, please
notify me as soon as possible!

This project can be found in its entirety on Quilting Passion. All comments and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Also, I would love to have a photo of this project finished, if you would like to share!

Remembering 09/11/01

In preparation for 09/11/09, I plan on honoring those who lost their lives in 2001 with the World Trade Center tragedy. I will replace my fall yard flag with the American flag, and will also hang my paper-pieced flag quilt beside my front door. The pattern for this small, quick, and easy project is located at: http://www.quiltingpassion.com/blocks/paperpiece/FlagofHope.jpg

What, if anything will you be doing?

The History of Planning a Quilt

Wow, talk about an article opening up a Pandora's Box! This stage of the quiltmaking process is extremely important both today and years gone by. Do it thoroughly and the rewards are so satisfying and unimaginable. Rush the planning and not thinking it through can prove utterly disastrous. And devastating. So great care should be given to the planning of a quilt. This was especially true in the past, which is the focus of this article. While there are many ideas that are still good, it is easy to see that some of the techniques and methods used are now outdated, tedious, and made much simpler via the utilization of modern technology.

Have you ever built a new house? Or remodeled? Or redecorated a room? Much thought is given to the end result. How everything is placed is vital to your plan and, hopefully, well thought out. Once the project is finished, you more than likely thought, "I wish I had put that there and this over here..." and on... and on... and on! It is inevitable: Experiencing the process makes one wiser! I have been blessed in that I have had the privilege of building four homes. I would like to say that it was perfect, but, alas, they were not. I designed each and every one of them and yet at the end, I discovered ways that I could have improved my design (my builders hated me, as I would change plans during construction). With each experience, however, I became wiser. Now I sit in my fourth home and see a couple of things I wish I had done differently, but overall, most of it was planned according to prior knowledge gained.

The same can be said of quilting, past and present. And a plan that works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It may look appealing when you decide to copy (legally, of course) a pattern, but once finished, you may realize that the colors just do not fit your style or purpose. So part of this learning process is in discovering your own personal tastes and being able to adapt your own style into your planning. Learning this valuable lesson can be a useful tool in preventing any disappointments in the finished product. It simply takes too long, too much energy, and too much expense to haphazardly complete a quilt.

Several considerations were given to the planning of a quilt long ago: Purpose, Size, Color(s), Layout, Borders, Technique(s), and the Quilting. To read more detail about each of these, please read this article in its entirety at Quilting Passion.

Comments, suggestions, ideas, and thoughts are greatly appreciated!

Enjoy The Day!

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." - Psalms 118:24

As we celebrate today, let us bask in the wonder of the day and be thankful that God has been merciful in providing us this marvellous (Verse 23), blessed day!

Find "Our Daily Inspiration" on Facebook and become a fan or follow the blog for more detailed commentary. Your support is greatly appreciated!

White Quilts

"White quilts" are splendidly rich in historical value!

But first, what is a white quilt? It is just what its name indicates: A white quilt. A quilt that is void of any color. It is often interchangeably referred to as a "whole cloth quilt", but sometimes when this term is applied, it has the potential to be misleading, because it can include color. The characteristic that both terms have in common is that the outer layer is a white, whole (not patched) cloth.

During the reign of Queen Anne (Queen of England/Great Britain, lifespan 1665-1714), there were many utterly exquisite white quilts made. With absolutely no color to help enhance the beauty of the quilts, it was essential that the craftsmanship be superb. These quilts were made with the greatest of care, with beautiful quilting designs sewn with the finest of stitches. Much attention was given to detail and planning was vital to this type of quilt.

There were basically two types of white quilts: One made for warmth and used as a quilt, the other not made for warmth, probably used as curtains, tablecloths, etc. There were also three methods used for making white quilts: 1) For a bed (warmth), 2) Stuffing from the backing side of the quilt (not for warmth), and 3) Stuffing from the wrong side of the top layer of the quilt (also not used for warmth).

1) If a white quilt was made as a quilt for a bed, it was created with at least three layers of thickness were sewn together with what was referred to as the "ordinary quilting stitch". The name of the stitch, however, does not in any way indicate that the stitch was "ordinary"! Quite the contrary, this stitch was "ordinary" because it was a plain, but very fine running stitch.

2) Another method was to quilt two layers (not used for warmth) with either a back stitch, a chain stitch, or a plain running stitch. Or maybe any combination of these stitches. For this quilt, the outer layer was made from the finest of all linen, and the backing was a loosely woven material (an explanation of the "why" follows!). The quilting designs for this type of quilt were made up of scrolls, feathers, small flowers, small leaves, and other patterns that allowed the quilter to "stuff" either cording or some type of padding directly beneath the linen. The process was simple, yet also complex. First, the layers were put in place and then temporarily sewn (basted) together. Second, the design/pattern(s) were all quilted with precision, the quilter being constantly aware that this quilt had no color, and that the work put into it would be highly visible. At this point, one would think it was almost complete, but there is yet another technique used to enhance the beauty of the quilt. This is where the loosely woven backing was utilized! Once quilted, the quilt was turned over to the backing and the threads of each quilted area were gently separated (never cut!) from one another in quilted areas. Still working from the back, the quilter then stuffed each detail of the pattern/design with bits of cotton or other fabrics, or even narrow cording (which was run through with a fine bodkin). Once all of the "stuffing" was complete, the threads that had been separated were carefully pushed back together again. Today, this technique is referred to as "trapunto".

3) Based on the method discussed in the paragraph above, an improvement emerged with regard to stuffing with cording. Quilters are intelligent people (as you know!) and it did not take long for them to figure out that the cording could be added in a much easier and faster way. Before the layers were basted together, the design/pattern was traced onto the wrong side of the outer linen fabric. The cording was then attached from the wrong side of the linen with the same stitch that is used in shadow embroidery, the "cat stitch" or "brier stitch". Then the process continued as the quilter put the layers together (forming a quilt "sandwich") and finished using the second method above.

The last two methods were used for tablecloths, window curtains, four-poster bed curtains, home decor, etc.

Many white quilts from the Queen Anne era (and others) can be found in museums today. These quilts are still quite popular and thought to be for a more-experienced quilter. These antique quilts are collectible and many online Web sites offer them for sale.

Hopefully, this article has been interesting and informative. Comments are definitely appreciated!

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part IX

When a young man entered into a marriage, he hopefully did not go in without a freedom quilt! Freedom quilts were made by the girls a young man was acquainted with, upon the celebration of his twenty-first birthday. Once married, this quilt was added to his bride's dower chest. This type of quilt was put together much like a friendship quilt.

We have to remember that long ago, entertainment and celebrations were limited: Probably due to being so rural (distance-wise), the difficulties of planning a "party" while getting everyday chores done, etc. These events usually lasted all day and evening; perhaps to give the horses time to rest or to make the entertainment worth the time it took for all of the preparations (including the travel time!). It may have even appeared inhospitable to invite guests for just a short period of time.

So, why is it called a "freedom" quilt? Up until his twenty-first birthday, a young man was completely under his parent's thumb. The parents had all authority; even to the point that they could dictate to him where to work, when to work, or what to do with any wages he might earn (even give it all to them for upkeep!). So, when he turned 21, it was very special. He became his own boss, you might say! He had his freedom, legally.

This may seem a strange tradition today, but a freedom quilt was expected to be added to a bride's dower chest. The lack of one might have appeared to show that her groom had uncaring, or no, friends!

Today, freedom quilts have entirely different meanings. One of the most recent is to honor soldiers that have lost their lives fighting terrorism since 09/11/01. This organization was founded by Betty Neilson from Fonda, IA. To show my respect for the events of 09/11/01, I designed a paper-piece pattern of a flag, shown at the top.

Freedom quilts (teacher's resource!) were also used as secret maps used by slaves in what is currently the USA to escape slavery. Each block signified a special meaning. Freedom quilts also have numerous other meanings that can be researched (keywords: Freedom + Quilts) on the Internet (Please use Quilting Passion Organization as the charity!). Amazon.com, as well as numerous other resources, also has many books based upon freedom quilts.

Hopefully, this section of the article has been informative and comments to this article are definitely appreciated!

This also concludes this entire journey on the early history of types of quilts. A secondary article will be published this coming week (09/06/09), if not sooner!

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part VIII

"Comfort" is defined as "to give strength and hope to", "cheer", "to ease the grief or trouble of", "console". Knowing this definition pretty much describes what comfort quilts are all about. These quilts are made for someone that is in need of comfort, for one reason or another. It could be illness, a death in the family, or any number of reasons.

A comfort quilt can be made by one person to give to another, or a comfort quilt can be a group effort, where several quilters work together to make a quilt. In 2003, I was diagnosed with multiple heart conditions and my online friends joined together and made me a beautiful comfort quilt. Then, in 2007, I experienced multiple medical issues, a huge move, and a new job. Again, several of my online friends got together and made me a comfort quilt, called "Spring Has Sprung". It is absolutely gorgeous! I think of them every time I snuggle underneath them... which is almost daily.

So, what types of people provide the comfort? Comforters, of course! And, according to Merriam-Webster, "comforter" has four definitions: "HOLY SPIRIT", "One that gives comfort", "A long narrow, usually knitted neck scarf", and "A thick bed covering made of two layers of cloth containing a filling (as down)". All of these definitions are very true for me. And I know first-hand how wonderful it feels to be on the giving and receiving end (I've also contributed to numerous comfort quilts). I have heard it said before that quilters are the most kind-hearted and generous people on this earth. I believe it!

To read the original article in its entirety, please visit Quilting Passion.

And, as usual, all comments are certainly appreciated!

September Give-Away!

Congrats to Wilma, the winner of the August fabric give-away!

All comments are certainly appreciated, as I continue to try to generate traffic for my blog! Stay tuned for another give-away at the end of this month, so post, post, post!

September Desktop Wallpaper Calendar

If you are like me, you love to have a calendar conveniently located near your computer. Well, it cannot get much closer than on your PC desktop! And if you are a quilt lover, then this is perfect!

For complete instructions and the quilt calendar, visit Quilting Passion!

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part VII

Out of the concept of friendship quilts was born the idea of friendship medley quilts. These quilts were fun quilts that centered around two different social gatherings, or parties. The first gathering occurred when a young girl in a region would decide upon a friendship medley surprise party for one of her friends. One example for an occasion would be to declare this type of party when a mutual friend became engaged to be married. The second gathering occurred after the quilt top was finished (the first party) and a quilting bee announced (this was traditionally done by the person receiving the quilt). These types of parties could very well have been the forerunners to what we know as "showers" today.

When a friendship medley quilt was made, special care was given so that no two blocks in the quilt were alike. Sometimes the blocks were simply sewn together side-by-side, and sometimes they were put together with strips of other fabric (called a "set"), usually supplied by the party-giver. By evening, the top was complete, and it was time for "supper". Of course, what would a party be without inviting a few young men over to enjoy the feast?

So, as you can see, the announcement of a friendship medley surprise party sparked excitement from the community. It was viewed as part of the social network that provided events to keep the youngsters entertained, while accomplishing a set purpose at the same time!

You can read this article in its entirety on the Quilting Passion Web site!

2 Days Until August Give-Away!

Just a reminder... only a couple more days before the August Give-Away!

I really appreciate everyone's support (and comments) as I get this blog off the ground!

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part VI

Although the true roots of the idea of a friendship quilt are not known, it is highly speculated that the friendship quilt was born during the time when young girls were making their dozen or so quilts for their dower chests.

As most quilters know, by the time we get to the end of making one quilt, we are getting pretty tired of working on it and are more than ready to see it complete; now, imagine making a dozen! Surely, young ladies during these times were bored with their own work and ready for a little variation. As such, they would exchange pieces, patches, and blocks with their friends, of all different materials, hence making a friendship quilt. Each piece of fabric and/or patch and/or block represented the friend and made the quilts all the more special. This became a very popular tradition that continues today.

To read this article in its entirety, please visit Quilting Passion.

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part V

Unfortunately, quilts are not always made for joyous occasions. For example, memory quilts. The underlying idea of a memory quilt was to create a quilt that would remind the makers of their dearly departed loved one. Many times, this quilt was made from the clothing of the deceased person. Each friend/relative made a block for the quilt, but traditionally, the center of the quilt was left blank. After the quilt top was completed, the center was then embellished with information regarding the loved one, such as full name, birth date, birth place, etc. This information was usually outlined in some type of embroidery stitch.

With the advancement of modern technology, memory quilts have become so much more today than in the past. With the addition of photos, embroidery machines, fabric die cutters, and more, these quilts have gained the potential to become more eye-appealing than before. Which, if you think about it, is a bit morbid, since it is a memory quilt in honor of a dead loved one. I can, however, understand the desire to make the quilt as beautiful as possible; you would absolutely want the quilt to best represent the memories you possess of the loved one!

To read this article in its entirety, please visit Quilting Passion!

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part IV

Traditionally speaking, "album quilts" were parting quilts made for a minister's wife when the minister accepted another position in a different church, then moved. The ladies of the church would come together and make one block each, from her own material (stash!) and sign with her name. The block usually contained a Bible verse, as well.

Often, men's names can be found on antique album quilts, so not all of the blocks in a quilt were signed by the makers themselves. Men who wished to be remembered by the clergyman and his wife would persuade a female relative to do the work.

Today, album quilts are sometimes called "signature quilts". Although a part of our quilting heritage for a long time, album quilts are now not specifically designated as a parting quilt for a minister's wife, but are seen as a going away gift for someone or to simply leave as a legacy.

There are many variations of the traditional album blocks, but all hold one element in common: A place for a signature. As we step into the future with technology, however, album blocks take on new meaning. Scanned handprints, photo blocks, special graphics... all add to the enrichment of an album block.

One can only imagine the many smiles that an album quilt brought to a minister's wife, long after she had left her husband's flock. These quilts were held in high esteem and she considered herself blessed to have received one!

This article in its entirety is found on Quilting Passion.

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part III

What do you think of when you hear the term "spinster"? An old maid? An older, unmarried lady? A female of an age that it is doubtful to marry? A woman who is too set in her ways to be marriage material? Any of these... or perhaps a combination of these?

The truth of the matter is that the word, "spinster" originally applied to young girls who were still spinning the flax that would be woven into the linen for their dower chests (sometimes called "hope chests" now). Having a dower chest completed before entering into marriage is a centuries old tradition, but really became popular in the mid-1950's in the USA. Most chests were wooden, with ornate carvings or paintings on them. Some were cedar chests (I still have mine!) or even metal foot lockers. The amount of time it would take to spin and weave enough table and bed linen and piece enough quilts with which to start housekeeping was enormous. This is why girls began working on their dower chests from early on in their young lives, as this was a huge portion of her dowery. A "good" bride would have no less than 12 of her best quilts pieced and ready for the frame and finishing for her chest when the time came for her to wed.

The very best of the quilts in the dower chest was referred to as the "bride's quilt". These quilts were especially beautiful. By the time a young girl got around to making this special quilt, she had had plenty of practice on the rest of her quilts. She knew which colors and patterns she loved the most. She had probably planned and discarded many ideas before making her final decision. In fact, you might say that the first 10 or so quilts were her "practice" quilts leading up to the biggie, the bridal quilt.

When the time came to finish all of the quilts, the young lady would invite friends, family, and neighbors to a central location to quilt her pieced tops. This was often referred to as a "quilting bee" and it was as much of a formal announcement of an engagement as if it had been published in the local newspaper. These "quilting bee" events were seen as entertainment and provided occasions for other things (pot luck dinners, barn raisings, etc.). Although quilting bees are considered a purely American tradition for a form of entertainment, today groups of women who come together quite regularly to quilt in the northern regions of England call themselves, "quilting clubs". Quilting clubs in the USA are also popping up everywhere (and have been for many years), mostly via quilt shops, but also online.

In essence, bridal quilts gave people excuses to gather together to socialize, while at the same time helping to provide a dowery for her upcoming marriage. A quilting bee is a tradition that I have sadly not had the pleasure of participating in, but hope to one day! I would definitely want to practice on my quilting skills first, though. :)

Today, antique bridal quilts are very valuable. And high quality quilts are difficult, but not impossible, to find. These quilts can be found in museums and private collections.

Hopefully, this article has been informative and comments are definitely appreciated!

Beginnings of Quilting - Part II

The "Spanish Bombast Period" was from approximately 1545 to 1620 A.D. During this time, quilting was used on some of the finest costumes to be found in any land. The early history of the patchwork quilt is of the development of work that had been undertaken in Europe in the mid-sixteenth to early seventeenth centuries. Bombast style clothing was definitely in vogue, as the clothing was so heavily ornamented with jewels that the clothes were instantly eye-catching and very appealing. Because of the weight of the jewels, it was necessary to have a number of layers of fabric to support them. These layers were quilted to hold them all together, and many times, the costumes were quilted and/or embroidered in gold and where the stitches crossed, studded pearls and other fine gems were attached.

There are many beautiful examples of quilted petticoats that were worn from the early part of the 18th century to the latter part. For the most part, the overskirt hid the petticoats almost entirely, except for a narrow panel down the front that was designed specifically to allow one to catch a glimpse of the artisan's craftwork beneath. These historical, wearable artifacts can be found in modern museums today.

Quilted clothing has not gone out of style! There is much evidence of quilted clothes worn in the winter in China and Japan. In France, the peasant women of some of the districts wear quilted petticoats still, and in Holland, several of the quilted petticoats are worn at the same time. Here in America, quilted garments can be found in many forms, from coats and jackets to evening wear. Even sports uses quilted garments for protection, such as in hockey, football, or any sporting game where the player or umpire needs a quilted shield. A very popular quilted garment is a vest. There are many patterns available on the market. They're fast, easy to make, gorgeous, and can let a quilter show his/her magnificent creativity.

This article, including all of the parts in the series, can be found in its entirety on Quilting Passion.

The Beginnings of Quilting, Part I

What does the beginnings of quilting involve? The answer to this question is simple, yet cannot easily be summed up in a few words. So, with that said, this begins a series of articles entitled, "The Beginnings of Quilting".

History, in particular Mr. Webster,
tells us that the original definition of a quilt (noun) was, "a kind of
mattress"; this has now changed to, "a
bed coverlet of two layers of cloth filled with padding (as down or batting)
held in place by ties or stitched designs"; On the other hand, the
verb "quilt" means, "to stitch or sew in layers with padding in between".

Our early ancestors, those who made their homes in caves, dressed and covered themselves with the skins of animals. At night, our kinfolk needed additional warmth as they slept, so they layered skins together somehow, and unknowingly laid the foundation for quilting
Hopefully, this brief summary has sparked enough interest to cause you to want to read this article in its entirety on Quilting Passion!

Keeping a Quilting Journal

How many times have you found a quilt that you made long ago and tried to remember what year you made it? Or you remember making a quilt for a baby shower, but can't remember who's baby you gave it to? Or maybe you've made a quilt that you absolutely loved, gave it to a very close friend that lives far away, and wished you could see it again? Or have you ever made a complicated quilt, only to forget exactly how you laid it out, can't remember the measurements of the block, or how it was pieced or exactly which fabric you used... and wished you could see the original again?

If this article has captured your interest, then perhaps you should consider keeping a quilting journal. You can get started by reading this article in its entirety at http://quiltingpassion.com/diary.html. Free QuiltSheets® are available to get you started by sending an e-mail to Terry Crawford.

A Quilter's Journal is also for sale (actual photo shown to the right). Details may be found on the Web at Quilting Passion Sales.

Begin journaling your projects today!

Applique Quilt Gallery Submission

Occasionally, someone sends me an e-mail of a quilt that has been made using a design/patterns from my Web site, Quilting Passion. I cannot begin to even describe the awesome feeling I get when this happens! If you have a photo, please feel free to share it with me!

With that said, that is the case for today. Susan, from New Hampshire, submitted me a photograph of her interpretation of my floral applique quilt, that I taught through Quilting Passion University several years ago. The patterns are still available online, by the way.

Susan did a fantastic job! Wouldn't you agree?

Sunny Floral Applique Quilt Online!

All 12 applique blocks for the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt are now online!

I, personally, have finished the first three blocks (pictures are on the Web pages and also scattered on the blog) using the button-hole applique technique and am working on the fourth block. The instructions for the last few blocks aren't as detailed as I like, so they will be fleshed out when I begin appliquing each. Particularly the more difficult blocks, with a lot of layering.

I haven't yet decided whether to make it using the straight setting (shown above) or on-point, shown to the right. Which do you like best? I may just let my readers decide!

I've decided to give this quilt to my sister for Christmas (or maybe her birthday in November), so I'm putting the pedal to the metal!

So many quilting projects to do, so very little time!

Sunny Floral Applique Quilt Update

Blocks 1-9 are now online!

Sunny Floral Applique Quilt

New Rose of Sharon Applique Block!

The Rose of Sharon applique pattern is now available. It is block #5 in a series for the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt.

To view my finished block #4, visit the Rose and Buds Web page.

Stay tuned for the continuation of this project!

Handkerchief Quilt

I am currently working on a commissioned, antique handkerchief quilt. My client didn't mind if the handkerchiefs were cut, so here's my block idea. I'm calling it, "Crossing Time". I am using my very favorite method of applique, the button-hole technique.

Instructions for making this quilt will be online within the next few weeks!

I also have a second block, based on the same method of cutting. Sort of. Instead of cutting the handkerchiefs into quarters half-way through the hanky, I also cut each hanky into quarters, diagonnally. This newly cut, handkerchief corner is centered onto the edge of the background and appliqued into place. A sample is shown below, but a block photo will follow when the instructions are released. As you can see, when cut half-way, it creates a "cross" effect. When cut diagonally, it creates an "x" effect.

Rose and Buds Applique Pattern Online

Block 4, Rose and Buds, of the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt series is now online.

Enjoy!

Three-Part Rose Block Finished!

The three-part rose is a very simple block to applique. Again, I've chosen the button-hole applique technique, as this is my favorite method and is also block three of the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt design.

If you're making this quilt along with me, I would love to hear about and see your photos! You can e-mail them to me (I can post them here if you give me permission) if you wish.

Happy quilting!

August Give-Away!

The winner of the July fabric Give-Away was Nina. Thanks for your support by posting comments, Nina!

The August give-away will be drawn from the comments (entered as many times as you comment - includes all threads the entire month) midnight August 31st.

I really appreciate your support. If you aren't already, please click to the lower right to follow this blog.

Thanks!

Radical Rose Pattern - Block 3 - Sunny Floral

Block 3 of the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt is up. It's a very simple rose applique called, "Radical Rose".



Enjoy!

NEW! Flyfoot Block Pattern Available

"Flyfoot" is now available as a 12" finished block!

Goodbye Needle-Turn, Hello Button-Hole!

This past week I have been so frustrated that I've dreaded quilting and put off working on the Sunny Floral Applique quilt. Why? Simple. I had forgotten how much I hate to needle-turn!

On Friday, I concluded that clenching my teeth, tightening my shoulders, getting a stress-headache, and the pain in my neck just wasn't going to cut it. And I wasn't even half finished with the first block, Mexican Rose!

Once I came to the conclusion that needle-turn must go and button-hole must come to my aid, I literally breathed an audible sigh of relief. That made me laugh, as that was the very second that I realized how much I hate needle-turning.

Quilting should be fun. Not stressful. Ya think?

2 New Applique Blocks!

2 new blocks are now online. I'm still working on the needle-turn tutorial, but if you're already an applique diva, you can go for these.


Mexican Rose


Three-Part Rose

I'm currently working on the Mexican Rose and will post a photo of my finished block ASAP!

This is, by the way, part of the Sunny Floral Applique Quilt series. I hope some of you choose to participate and make this quilt along with me.

FOLLOW THIS BLOG!

Did you know you could follow this blog easily? That means that you would be notified via e-mail each time I publish an article/new pattern.

Simply click on the "FOLLOW BLOG" link at the top of this page. If you do not have a Google account, it can be created quickly and for free, with very little personal information.

So, follow this blog!

CHRISTMAS IN JULY GIVE-AWAY

At the end of this month, midnight July 31st CST to be exact, I will be having a drawing for a surprise fabric package totalling approximately 3-5 yards of very good quality (non-Christmas) fabric that will be given away to someone who follows my quilting blog.

I am trying to generate traffic, obviously, and so at the end of the month, I will take all of the person's names that have commented on this site (even you just say "enter me in this drawing!" under this article), pool them together and draw a single name for the fabric package. If you comment more than once (under differrent articles, for example), your name goes into the pool more than once; one ticket entry per comment for the month. To gain access to all of the articles on this site, simply click the "Quilting With Terry" graphic at the top of the page; it will take you to the home page of my blog.

I also have another, very important, reason for doing this: I spend quite a bit of time writing and researching to try to give useful information to my readers in the articles I develop. It would be nice for me to know if this information is helpful or if there are suggestions for improvement or whatever... and I have no way of knowing that at this point without reader feedback. Which is where you come in. :)

So, please put this site in your favorite bookmarks (http://quilting-with-terry.blogspot.com/) and take a few minutes to check it every day or two for new announcements. Your comments really are appreciated... and help motivate me to keep giving you more free articles and quilting patterns!!

Inspiration For Designing Quilts

To read this original article in its entirety (to get more design ideas), refer to "Inspiration For Designing Quilts".

Designing quilts is a passion for me. My mind is always on the alert for ideas and new quilts. It is something that you make yourself aware of to begin with, then it just happens automatically. Quilt ideas soon begin leaping at you from everywhere and when you see a design and share it with a non-quilter... well, just know that your creativity may go unnoticed, ignored, and under-appreciated!

I moved into my new cottage in early May (quite a downsize!) and I've been going through my storage... sorting items into the "keep" pile, the "donate" pile, and the "sell it" pile. This is quite a monumental task, as I went from 3000 sq. ft. down to 600! I am having to be very, very selective; something that I am definitely not used to.

Well, Monday, I found a rug that I had forgotten I had. I purchased it about five or six years ago with the single thought that this would make the most spectacular pattern for a wallhanging! It is floral (imagine that from me), by nature, with a hummingbird, which simply "looks" like it has the grand potential to become a gorgeous appliqué design. I think it'll be my "next spring" project. This is one of the most difficult aspects of designing for me; thinking that far into the future!

Quilting And Color

SPECIAL NOTE: To appreciate the full value of this article and to completely understand each concept, it is vitally important to view the rich graphics and read the entire article located on Quilting Passion.

What is your first thought when you begin to formulate a plan for a new quilt and get to the color part? If it is one of "Oh, no, how can I make this work!", then this article should provide some useful information for you!

Color can make... or break a quilt, so understanding basic concepts and terms about color, plus the use of a few tools provided can give you a foundation to base your color choices on. This information about color and how it works in the natural world can allow your quilt to become your work of art with a lot less effort than imagined. How? Keep reading!

Terms, or definitions, are necessary in order to better understand and communicate color and color characteristics. This article only includes the basic terms and eliminates the "more-information-than-you-probably-need-at-this-point" definitions that have the distinct possibility of totally confusing the issue.

Topics covered in the original article are:

• COLOR WHEEL
• PRIMARY COLORS
• SECONDARY COLORS
• TERTIARY COLORS
• TINT
• TONE
• HUE
• SHADE
• WARM AND COOL COLORS
• COMPLIMENTARY COLORS
• SPLIT COMPLIMENTARY COLORS
• VALUE
• CHOOSING FABRICS AND COLORS
• SUMMARY

Hopefully, this article will be informative and help you with future color selections!

Comments to the article are definitely appreciated, as are suggestions.

Copyright Rant!

Monday, I had someone (thank you!) to e-mail me that they recognized one of my articles on geocities.com, with THAT person (the geocities user) taking credit for writing it. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

I first thanked the e-mailer, then promptly sent HIGH PRIORITY e-mail to the geocities user in violation of my copyright AND to geocities. I've yet to hear from geocities and the user's e-mail address is no longer valid. I feel like calling geocities, but I'm betting the hold time would be inconceivably astronomical!

I sure feel a copyright article coming on...

New Floral Appliqué Quilt Coming Soon!

A couple of years ago, I began a Block of the Month (BOM) quilt called, "Sunny Floral Appliqué".

Thanks to a computer and server crash, I lost every single file, four or five blocks into the nine total blocks in the quilt. I was heart-broken!

Over the past few months, I have had numerous e-mails asking me about the pattern, so I decided to once again give it a go! One organized e-mailer sent me a photo of the completed design that I had had on my Web site and it was enough to allow me to redesign the quilt. Although it isn't exact (one different block and the colors), it is mighty darn close! The original is located at the bottom and I will post the new design later this week!

Stay tuned for 12 new patterns!

July 2009 "Quilty" Desktop Wallpaper

Do you like to change the desktop wallpaper/background on your computer every once in awhile? Do you get bored with the same old thing? Do you love quilts and/or quilting?

If you answered "yes", then here is a possible solution for you.

Each month, I create a new "quilty" desktop wallpaper that you can use.

Directions are on the Web page so that the process of using it is simple and fast.

July Quilt Desktop Wallpaper

Please let me know what you think of this! Enjoy!

"Backyard Bird Quilts" Book Review

I just finished reviewing a wonderful book by Jodie featuring 18 paper-piecing projects.

If you love birds and quilting, this book is a must-have!

http://quiltingpassion.com/Terry/reviews/br-backyardbirdsquilts.html

Please comment to let me know what you think about this book and/or article? Thank you!

Welcome!!

Welcome to my blog spot!

I love designing, writing about, and making quilts, as well as traveling. I am also an avid reader.

Please take the time to check my blog a few times a week to see what's new. I'd really appreciate it if you could comment, also. It motivates me to do more! :)

To learn more about me, check out http://quiltingpassion.com/.