Stormy Beach

Batik fabrics in ocean hues combine beautifully with a muted blue-gray mini dot to make the storm at sea blocks on this quilt. I've been wanting to sew this one for a while, but I don't have the die.

Fortunately, I do have individual dies for the pieces needed. I laid out the block using EQ8 to fit those dies. Perfection! I had to make more cuts that I would have with the block on board die, but it's certainly easier than rotary cutting everything.

For quilting, I stitched with cream to gray variegated thread, using a walking foot, mirroring the motion in the design. Borders are quilted with a serpentine pattern. Binding and backing is a wide beige cobblestone print. Stormy Beach is 47” square.

These seaside colors remind me of a cloudy beach after a rain: so relaxing, peaceful, and mellow. I hung it on the wall in our great room for the summer, adding other display quilts and pillows in complementary colors. We're not traveling to the beach this year due to COVID, so I made the best of it with décor.

Accuquilt dies used:
55018 Small value die
55047 Quarter square triangle 4” finished
55031 Half square triangle 4” finished
55409 Triangle in square 4” finished
55818 Half square triangle 1½”

Everything is better 

at the beach... 

even rain. 

Down In Mississippi

This week's quilt is made with a vintage block called Mississippi. I used light fabrics in lime, aqua, lavender and cream. The large 13” blocks were easy to cut with AccuQuilt dies. I used a Blue Wren strip cutter die for the narrow sashing.

Down In Mississippi finished out at 45” x 60” size. I quilted with cream thread, using Angela Walters' Elvira ruler to free motion stitch wavy lines. It was great practice and so enjoyable.

Down In Mississippi

I've had plenty of time to quilt the past two weeks, since we haven't left the house because of that nasty virus. It isn't a hardship to stay in because my home is a refuge, a place where I'm comfortable and happy.

I like puttering around, sitting on the porch, hanging out with my husband. I can always find something to do. So far, we have enough supplies and food. I really don't like grocery shopping anyway, so I haven't missed that a bit.  My fabric inventory would probably sustain me for a year.  

I wish more people would take this pandemic seriously and just stay at home. Sure, I miss breakfast at our favorite diner, our April camping trip was canceled, I'd like to shop for spring flowers, and I won't get my hair cut on schedule. But I don't think any of that is more important than our health or our lives.

The number of cases, and sadly, the death toll is rising quickly.  STAY HOME, PEOPLE!!

Accuquilt dies used:

55010 5” Square charm

55147 Half square triangle 2 ¼” finished

55731 Signature 4 ½” finished

Blue Wren die used:

6015 1 ½” strip cutter

Merry Trees

This small Christmas quilt is so cute! Diamond shapes and triangles are arranged to form rows of little trees.

I used Hattie's Choice Accuquilt die again to cut the red and green shapes, then added half square rectangles on each side. A bright border of red with green dots just sets it off. 

Backing is a holiday print of nested squares. Using green thread, I quilted in serpentine stitch horizontally and vertically.  Nice for a wall hanging or table mat, Merry Trees is 23” x 35” in size.

Accuquilt dies used:  

Hattie's Choice 55220

3 ½” x 6 ½” half rectangle triangle 55411 

I'm enjoying a simple, quiet Christmas season. No parties, no nonsense, no drama. We haven't wanted to shop (except a bit online), so we avoided the pressure to buy just for the sake of a sale. It's empowering to ignore others' expectations and satisfying to do what you like.

Remember, it's your Christmas,

so march to the beat

of your own little drummer boy

Hazelnut Latte

Yummy colors of cream, chocolate, bronze, and black go together fabulously, don't they? I've had these coordinating fabrics for a while, just waiting for an idea to take shape. The fabrics usually let me know how they want to be used; it's entirely possible that I'm a fabric whisperer.  

The design is my version of Jen Kingwell's Flutterby block, adapted to use Accuquilt dies and resized to nine inches. Layout done in Electric Quilt 8 gave me yardage and number of pieces for each fabric, so cutting and sewing went quickly. 

I chose a stone and cream geometric print for backing and binding. Free motion quilting in a meandering stitch with cream thread was done on my Janome Horizon MC 9400 with the Flynn frame. 

Hazelnut Latte is 44” x 54” in size, just right for snuggling on a chilly day with a riveting book and a cup of hot coffee.

Hazelnut Latte (EQ8)

Accuquilt dies:

3 ½” x 6 ½” half rectangle triangle 55411

3 ½” square 55006

Stargazer

Stargazer

I've always loved lone star quilts but never got around to making one until now.    

Stargazer features shades of purple, orchid, and amethyst framed by a dusty aqua floral print. Using my Accuquilt LeMoyne Star (55453) die, I cut the entire die with each fabric to save time and material. The center diamonds were all I needed for this quilt, so I set aside the other pieces for a later project.

I used EQ8 to arrange the colors, calculate the fabric needed, and number of pieces to cut. Laying the quilt on my design board helped me keep the sections in order. 

It looks more complicated than it really is. I sewed rows of three to make eight large diamonds, making sure to press so that the seams would nest. 

I added triangles cut to fit each side and sewed two of these together makes a quarter section square.  Four squares together, and it's done!

I quilted with light purple thread in a straight stitch, following the diamond sides. Binding in the darker purple frames it up nicely.  

This happy wall hanging is 28” square and fits perfectly between the windows in my sewing room. I'm delighted with the results and added a larger version to my ever-growing project list.

Surround yourself

with

beautiful things

Meditation

Calming colors of light aqua, cream and white give today's quilt a light, airy feel. I started with a 5” charm pack of aqua prints, cutting them with the Accuquilt signature block. I added 5” squares and triangles of scrap pieces and arranged them in a diagonal cross pattern.

Backing is a white and gray print. I quilted ½” apart with white thread in four quadrants, following the diagonal cross. Meditation is 46” square.

It coordinates perfectly with my recent queen size quilt (Cool Lagoon). Our master suite has been transformed into a calming retreat. With the addition of some ocean sounds, I'm falling asleep dreaming of the sea.

Sky above

sand below

peace within

We dream in colors

borrowed from the sea

Follow Your Path

I've been thinking. Yeah, I know that's dangerous. It usually means something is about to change. Around here that could be anything from moving furniture to planning an adventure.

My thoughts are that there should be an easy rhythm to daily life. When everything is going smoothly, you feel in sync with your surroundings. There's a sense of peace, joy, accomplishment, and satisfaction with yourself. That comfort level isn't easy to maintain, however, because circumstances have a knack for changing just when you think you're on the perfect path.

Managing change is crucial to keeping that balance. Change is how you learn. You have to decide whether to get back on track or head off in another direction. It's important to set your own itinerary. Try to filter out what really doesn't matter, what can wait for another day.

Structure your life to fit your expectations, not those of others. Fill your time with the things, people, and activities that make you smile.  Remember, it's your path.

“From anywhere you are, there is a path that will lead you to where you want to be.”  – Ralph Marston

Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde

Colors for this lap quilt were inspired by Mesa Verde  
National Park in Colorado. These rust solid, green print and black/rust prints remind me of the beautiful cliff dwellings and scrub pine trees found in the park. We were there on vacation years ago, but I'd like to go west again one day.

I designed in EQ8, alternating the 4” kite block with a plain corner block. Using Accuquilt dies made quick work of the cutting. I set the blocks diagonally, creating a flowing pattern that I followed when quilting in rust thread. The back of this 48” square is a black/rust print.  

Since Mesa Verde matches the colors in our camper, it will ride along when we head out later this spring. It might come in handy on a cool night by the lake.

By the way, I sewed this as a birthday gift for my sweet husband, but I caught Callie cat taking a nap on it last night. 

If you truly love nature,

you will find beauty everywhere.

~Vincent van Gogh

Nature always wears

the colors of the spirit.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Quick Summer Sewing

While I haven't posted much about sewing lately, I'm at the machine or designing every week. Here are a few small projects I've completed this spring and early summer. 

 

A quilted tote bag in gray, blue and turquoise is strip pieced from scraps. It has a zipper closure and is large enough to hold my tablet, makeup bag, and more.

The black garden tool print wallet has three zipper compartments to carry anything I need for a quick shopping trip: coupons, phone, lipstick, keys, cash, cards and ID.

A bright and cheery sunflower table mat features decorative stitching. Another little table mat has bright turquoise and black prints on one side and neutral gray and white on the other.

My favorite so far is this smaller purse made in crisp blue chambray with a coordinating stripe. It's perfect for summer. 

Finally, I whipped up a new valance for my laundry room using black ticking and a clothespin print, tied on with homespun strips. 
 

Always Thankful

Sewing...and More

Lately I've been spending my spare time doing what I love...sewing! After my last project, I freshened up my work space, put away scrap pieces, cleaned the machine and changed needles. Beginning a new project in an organized space helps me engage more creative brain cells. Several more designs are already awaiting my attention. I'm looking forward to a retreat to my own sewing room several times a week. It may be cheaper than therapy.

Once I finished in the sewing room, I focused my efforts on the kitchen pantry. New shelf liner and a couple of graduated racks for canned goods make it look nicer. Labels keep things organized and easy to find. Soon, I'll work my way through the rest of the cabinets—laundry room, bathrooms, hall closet, office—to sort and purge.

What's the upside to all this organizing? I'll have more time to spend living life, doing what I enjoy!

Useful Notion: Being organized isn't about getting rid of everything you own or trying to become a different person; it's about living the way you want to live, but better. ~Andrew Mellen

Winter Leftovers

Another winter project complete! I've used more leftover black and white print fabric plus a modern teal and black print that I've been saving for a while. The result is a high contrast nine block quilt called Center Crossroads. Even with the little pieces, I finished this one in a day and a half.

My secret? A disappearing four patch technique. It starts as a large four patch block of two contrasting fabrics, which is then sliced up and rearranged. As long as you keep your rotary cutter sharp and your ruler steady, the seams match up nicely. I experimented with a diagonally sliced block for the back, so this lap quilt is reversible.

Whoever thought of this method is a genius. I imagine it's a rotary cutter invention. I don't remember seeing the technique in older quilting magazines or patterns. And I just can't imagine Granny Rose or Granny Hill cutting up a completed quilt block with scissors to rearrange it, but maybe they did. Those women were pretty resourceful and could have used short cuts that they kept to themselves.

Useful Notion: Cutting fabric into little squares and sewing it back together may sound like insanity, but it actually keeps me from going to pieces.

Any day spent sewing is a good day.

Gorgeous Autumn Days

After a little preview of cool dreary rain over the weekend, Monday has dawned with sunny skies, fresh air, and nearly perfect temperatures. My windows are open, and I'm energized to do a bit of housecleaning before I find some excuse to go outside.

I believe there are some leaves that need to be swept off the sidewalks, and the screened porch needs a bit of sprucing up. Maybe I'll take a brisk walk in the woods, then make use of the glider to relax with a glass of sweet tea and a good book.

Useful Notion: Take advantage of pretty days every chance you get.

The Best Of Both Seasons

This time of year Is just right for simple, cozy meals. The other morning I tossed some leftover rice into the crockpot, along with a handful of mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. I sauted bite sized pieces of fresh chicken with a diced onion, then added to the pot with oregano, coriander, and black pepper. At suppertime, I served it with a topping of shredded cheese and a side of corn muffins. For dessert: homemade apple pie, made with Jonagold apples from a local orchard. YUM!

Even though we've had some cool mornings, we're lucky to still have access to end of season summer veggies. On the menu this week is a big BLT with crisp bacon, lettuce and a slice of juicy Tennessee tomato. I can't quite let go of summer just yet. After all, high temps are in the 80's and the hummingbirds are still here.  It's time to enjoy the best of both seasons.

“And just like that, summer slipped into fall.” --Unknown

Mowing And Musing

We've been enjoying a couple of days of cooler temps and lower humidity. What a delight it's been to sit on our screened porch and do a little yard work in reasonable comfort at the end of June.

While mowing this morning, I used the time to clear my mind. It's good to do that every now and then; to reset and concentrate on the present. I focused on the breeze across my face, the smell of newly mown grass, the contrast of sun and shade, and how nice everything looked when we finished. I was happy just to be here.

Wouldn't it be nice to have that quiet feeling of satisfaction in all that we do? Life would sure be simpler. The answer may be to stay in the moment and experience all life has to offer. There could be something important in everything, even mundane chores or negative experiences. I believe I'll try looking for that hidden moment every day.

“There's a treasure hidden in every moment. 

The joy of life is finding it.” 

– Katrina Mayer

The Simple Summer List

Here's to a summer of simple pleasures! The important things in life take time, so make an effort to slow down, simplify, and make this summer easy, breezy and fun.

Do the fun stuff: Go out for ice cream or a root beer float. Take in a movie at the drive-in. Escape into an interesting novel. Drink sweet tea, margaritas, or ice cold beer on your porch. Plan a road trip to explore someplace new. Count fireflies. Go to a dark spot and stargaze.

Lose the clutter: Less is better and easier to keep clean. Put away knick-knacks and heavy accessories for the uncluttered feel of a vacation retreat. Swap out dark colors for pure white, light sage, luscious melon, watery aqua, beachy blue, or pale gray.

Lighten up meals: Use the grill or crockpot often to keep the kitchen clean and cool. Seasonal veggies and fruits are plentiful and inexpensive for refreshing salads and side dishes.

Get back to basics: A simple summer wardrobe of lightweight pants, shorts, sundresses, tees, and camp shirts with sneakers or sandals will keep you cool and make laundry day easier. Leave the fussy hairstyles and heavy makeup behind.

Forget multitasking: Immerse yourself in each activity. Observe your surroundings and become aware of your senses. Experience life fully. Don't plan every minute; live on island time and let each day unfold to see where it takes you.

“Let us dance in the sun, wearing wild flowers in our hair...”

~ Susan Polis Schutz

“Summer, after all, is a time when wonderful things can happen to quiet people. For those few months, you’re not required to be who everyone thinks you are...”

~ Deb Coletti 

 

Contentment

 

con·tent·ment

 : the state of being mentally and physically satisfied with things just as they are

: peace of mind; satisfaction

: a happy or pleased feeling with one's circumstances

It is comforting to be at place in life where you know you can handle whatever comes along. You've cleared unnecessary things and exasperating people out of your path so that you can go your own way. That's contentment. 

 

Some people always strive to be somewhere else or someone else; they will never be truly content. You have to be comfortable with who you are before you can find your way to where you want to be. 

 

Happiness and satisfaction in life come from knowing you are where you belong. That doesn't mean you're stuck in one place, but that you trust yourself to go forward confidently and enjoy the journey.

“When you can think of yesterday without regret 

and tomorrow without fear, 

you are near contentment.” 

– unknown

“At some point you gotta let go, sit still, 

and let contentment come to you.” 

– Elizabeth Gilbert