Patchwork Carry All Tote Kit from Craftsy

Which one would you pick? 

Patchwork Carry All Tote Kit

Skill level: Advanced Beginner
Time to complete: One Weekend
On Sale NOW for just $21.78!

Occasionally a company will ask an affiliate blogger to make a product, and review the pattern and process. I've agreed to do this bag for Craftsy, but I will share with you, dear Reader, my honest opinion.  

#BraveQuilter: March Wrap Up Link Party

What does it mean to be brave in the context of quilting?

Is it really to 'face and endure danger without showing fear' as many dictionaries state? Well, honestly, I can't think about too many things with quilting that are really dangerous besides rotary cutters, longarm quilting machines, and running with scissors. We're not talking about bodily harm with #BraveQuilter--we're talking about the fear of failure.

Hazel and Hank Hedgehogs

Hazel the Hedgehog
Pattern by Elizabeth Hartman
"Fabrics and Fibs" print by Anna Marie Horner

'Hank the Hedgehog'
So named because I'm partial to the name Hank, and 
this was meant for a little boy.
Print fabric by Birch Organic

Gold Rush Finish a.k.a. The Klimt Quilt

"Art is a line around your thoughts."
~Gustav Klimt

"Gold Rush" a.k.a. "The Klimt Quilt"

This scrap quilt reminds people of a Gustav Klimt work, although that was never my original intention. I didn't see it myself until a niece made a comment after seeing it online. It was interesting to me as I'm drawn to Klimt's work, and have had reproductions hanging in my house. I wondered if that was a subconscious influence. I don't know.

Easy Quilted Heating Pad Cover Tutorial

Quilted Heating Pad Cover Tutorial

This is Easter week. Schools are out, and many of us have been busy with family obligations. While the blog has been very quiet, my real life has been quite busy. I've missed you!

I have to admit to getting my quilting fix over on Instagram with Amy's Creative Side, @amyscreativeside #IGquiltfest, and Leanne's, @devotedquilter #springintocolourphotochallenge. Check them both out for some colorful eye candy before you hide your baskets.

New Quilt Blocks and Weekly Plan

Groovy Solids

Do you remember this Sesame Street song?

"One of these things is not like the other,
One of these things just doesn't belong,
Can you tell me which thing is not like the others
Before I finish this song?"

Uppsala Stars Goes Modern Friday Finish

Uppsala Stars Modern: Finished and Bound

Uppsala Stars is a Sew You Learn teaching pattern I've created, and available through Craftsy. It's made with easy measurements, and ideal for a beginner to intermediate quilter to work through on their own. I hope you enjoy this new colorway.

Pressing Perfect Edges with Aluminum Foil

Did you ever find something so simple 
you were almost silly about it?

How to Make Weekly Studio Goals Within Reason

It's Monday early, and both my personal and studio To-Do-Lists are crippling! I had a relaxing, long weekend away, but arrived home to find I'm swamped even when I was very organized. It feels awful.

How Do You Cope?

First, I am a list maker. I wrote everything down for each list--even though it was overwhelming. Then I prioritized half of it, and picked 4 of those things to start on. Still too much, perhaps, but well within reason. I made reachable goals.

Sewing a Zipper Bag from Socks

Upcycled Footie Socks to Zipper Bag

It goes without saying that we are examples to family and friends when they see us making. Never underestimate the impact you have inspiring someone else, and I will add, even if they never show the smallest interest. 

A Short Story to This Interesting Project

My youngest daughter, the llama keeper, mentioned something off handed to me one morning about making a zipper bag from old socks. I snickered, and said I didn't think that was possible. I likely replied, "Umm...it won't work." And she tossed back, "Well, I did it." Now she had my full attention.