Lisnaweary Quilts

New arrivals...

2012-02-07T09:45:00.004Z

This post has absolutely nothing to do with patchwork and quilting -

I have often posted photos of our dog posing with quilts!

This time she's posing with her new arrivals...

They are two weeks old -

Two girls and three boys..

oh so soft and cute..

Aahh sleepy head!

Modern Quilt Guild of Ireland launched!

2012-02-06T09:26:00.003Z

This weekend Sarah from Fairyface designs and Cindy from Fluffy Sheep Quilting launched the Modern quilt Guild of Ireland - how exciting!

If you're based in Ireland why not join? I've filled out my registration form

and think it will be an exciting time for Quilters in Ireland!

I find myself torn between traditional and modern patchwork and quilting.

On the one hand, I love the traditional work - I just adore folk art inspired patchwork.

On the other hand, I find modern patchwork and quilting styles so fresh and minimalistic.

At the minute, I think I'll sit on the fence and enjoy all styles!

So what's your choice?

Modern or traditional?

I'm still here...

2012-01-30T09:39:00.007Z

Well I'm still here! After a long absence, I have finally found some time to blog!

I have been busy preparing for some classes I am teaching.

Mondays,Tuesdays and Wednesdays are pretty much full to bursting

with teaching and taxiing children about!

This is the 'Hotch Potch Patch Bag' I am teaching in one class.

It can be made in two different sizes. (Pattern is available here)

I've also had the chance to teach at a local craft group and guide them

in how to use an Accuquilt GO! which they bought last year.

It's been great fun - with endless possibilties and everyone putting

some of their own ideas into different patterns.

I used this pattern from the Accuquilt website,

to applique cotton fabric and some wool felt, to make a centrepiece for a wall hanging.

I have long admired the work of Sue Spargo,

and took inspiration from her to complete the centre.

I appliqued the wool hearts on top of the cotton hearts, using embroidery thread and beads.

All I have to do now is add a border and a sleeve to hang it and it will be complete -

just in time for Valentine's Day!

Are you working on any Valentine's Day projects?

Start sewing!

2012-01-06T11:27:00.006Z

With a lot of helpful hints and tips from a lot of lovely people,

here is my completed 'Confetti' quilt top!

I took the advice to treat the flannel just as normal cotton,

and everything worked out just fine!

Quilt shops in Northern Ireland normally stock very little flannel fabrics,

so I never had the opportunity to use it before.

I found that the flannel didn't stretch at all.

The fabrics, put together by the Seattle Quilt Co., are lovely

and the colours blend so together so well.On another sewing note, Sarah at Fairy Face Designs has launched a

series of sewing tutorials, aimed at people who want to learn to sew.

I was delighted when she asked me to contribute!

There's a great line up of tutorials, well worth checking out -

1. 05/01/12 - Project Launch, Giveaway & Master List - Sarah @ FairyFace Design

2. 07/01/12 - Resources & Supplies - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

3. 10/01/12 - Sewing Classes - Fiona @ The Sewing Directory

4. 12/01/12 - Sewing Basics Part 1 - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

5. 14/01/12 - Sewing Basics Part 2 - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

6. 19/01/12 - Pincushion & Needlebook - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

7. 26/01/12 - Simple Napkins - Jennifer @ Ellison Lane Quilts

8. 02/02/12 - Baby Burp Cloths - Irina @ El Petit Taller

9. 09/02/12 - Simple Pram Blanket - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

10. 16/02/12 - Scrappy Cushion/Pillow - Karen @ Lisnaweary Quilts

11. 23/02/12 - Notebook Cover - Cindy @ Fluffy Sheep Quilting

12. 01/03/12 - Tote Bag - Leanne @ She Can Quilt

13. 08/03/12 - Stencils with Freezer paper - Lindsay @ Craft Buds & Lindsay Sews

14. 15/03/12 - Zip Back Cushion/Pillow - Judith @ Rags to Bags

15. 22/03/12 - Simple Girl's Skirt - Ceri @ Inspired by Felix

16. 26/03/12 - Introduction to Quilting - Easy Mug Rug - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

17. 29/03/12 - Patchwork Potholder - Sheila @ BluePatch Quilter

18. 05/04/12 - Fabric Wallet - Sarah @ Narcoleptic in a Cupboard

19. 12/04/12 - Round (Wonky) Potholders - Felicity @ Felicity Quilts

20. 19/04/12 - Zipped Wristlet/Pouch - Jenna @ SewHappyGeek

21. 26/04/12 - Quilted Table Runner - Susan @ Canadian Abroad

22. 03/05/12 - Garment Making Basics - Sara @ Sew Sweetness

23. 10/05/12 - Mini Quilt - Kirsten @ Gemini Stitches

24. 17/05/12 - Applique & Machine Embroidery - Sarah @ FairyFace Designs

Be sure and join in the fun!

Sarah is having a special launch giveaway-

Sew start sewing!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T09:30:00.003Z

Good bye 2011

Welcome 2012!

Sewing flannel

2011-12-30T15:30:00.003Z

Hands up who has never sewn flannel before?

I have always admired flannel, felt that soft, warm cotton and

dreamed of making myself a flannel quilt.

A little while (ahem.. two years) ago, I bought a flannel 'confetti' quilt kit at the Festival of Quilts, on the Seattle Quilt Company stand.

The kit has been sitting in my cupboard ever since, looked at, admired and put away again.

I had two problems:

1. I had never sewn flannel before and didn't want to make a mess of it!

2. I never had the time.

Ok, number two is a lame excuse,

so I have taken advantage of this holiday time to make a start on the quilt.

I have searched the internet for tips on sewing flannel,

some of these are very useful and then others are very contradictory.

HELP!

So far I have found that my fabric does not fray very much and I have opted to use a conventional 1/4" seam allowance (This is totally going against the majority of the advice out there that says to use a bigger seam allowance)

And starch? do I really need starch?

Well, not so far anyway!

anybody got any tips for me?

Holiday reading

2011-12-29T15:02:00.004Z

Just before the Christmas holidays, I popped into my local library

and borrowed some books..

I was delighted to find a copy of the Liberty Book of Home Sewing -

I am only the second person to borrow it!

It has some beautiful projects for practical items,

I have fallen for a lovely rose inspired cushion which I will just have to have a go at making.

I have always wanted to learn to crochet, so I borrowed a couple of crochet books aswell!

After a quick flick through the books,

I think the 'Super Cute' one will have to wait until I have grasped the basics first!

On Christmas Eve the post man brought a lovely package of fabric - all the way from the USA!

I had won one of Laurie Wisbrun's 12 days of goodies giveaway, 8 fat quarters of her new fabric line 'Modern Whimsy' - its absolutely gorgeous and 100% organic! Those colours, along with the sheep and the rabbits are just screaming SPRING at me!

Anyone know any good crochet themed blogs?

Beginners standard of course!

Christmas baking

2011-12-21T12:01:00.003Z

I've been busy baking mince pies..some for giving away..some for keeping..

As you can see I'm a messy cook :)

But they do taste really good!

What are you cooking up for the holidays?

Snowman Coffee Cosy

2011-12-20T14:09:00.007Z

Blogger is playing up on me today, so I just hope this turns out OK!
Here is my last minute Christmas sewing project.
A Snowman coffee pot cosy.

I made it using the Go! Holiday Accessories die, and using felt meant that there were no edges to worry about.

Here are the instructions:
First of all measure around your coffee pot and measure the height aswell.
Mine measured approximately 14" x 6 1/2", so I cut out a two pieces of black fabric 14 1/2" x 7" to include seam allowances, one for the background and one for the backing.
I used my Accuquilt Go! Baby to cut out the snow men and accessories. The felt cuts perfectly and those snowballs were a dream to make!
Use embroidery thread and a running stitch to stitch the snowmen in place. I had some sparkly embroidery thread in my stash which worked out really well against the felt! (Although it doesn't show up so well in the photos!)

Next place the backing fabric on top of the snowmen, right sides together.

Sew around the outside using a 1/4" seam, leave a 6" gap in the bottom and trim the corners

Turn it inside out and place a piece of insulated wadding inside the cosy.

Pin the seam in place and hand sew up the gap in the cosy. Quilt around the outside of the snowmen, just to keep the wadding in place.

Cut out two strips of felt 1 1/4" x 4".
On both strips, make a button hole at one of the ends.
Sew the strips in place using buttons. Sew on two buttons on the opposite sides.

There you have it a speedy Snowman Coffee Cosy!

Just in time for Christmas..

I won too!

2011-12-12T12:00:00.001Z

I have always loved entering giveaways and competitions.

I enter them regularly.

I don't often win, but I get to read some amazing blogs.

Recently I ordered some Anna Marie Horner Loulouthi fabric from River Fabrics,

a fabulous online fabric store.

I have been admiring this fabric for a long time and now have the

perfect excuse to use it in a new project!

Then about a week later I got a lovely surprise when I won a giveaway sponsored by River Fabrics on the needles and lemons blog.

Five yards of Kona solids and a spool of aurifil thread- oh lucky me!

It's like getting a lovely present - doesn't it make you feel good?

Giveaway winner!

2011-12-11T18:21:00.005Z

Well, first of all a big big big thank-you,

to everyone who entered the Accuquilt Go! baby giveaway!

Without any further ado, I know you all just want to find out..

according to Mr Random number Generator, the winner is....

Sewconsult who said "I like Accuquilt FB page."

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please email me your details and your choice of dies.

GO BABY GIVEAWAY!!

2011-11-30T09:16:00.007Z

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

Is this on your Christmas wishlist?

Well here's your chance to win a Go! baby fabric cutter and 3 dies of your choice.

Take my word for it, it'll be difficult to pick just 3 :)

I deliberated long and hard before I picked my dies,

but am so happy with them.

Next one on my wish list has to be the Sarah Vedeler Go! Star Points.

I used the circles die and the rick rack die to make my 'Flying High' quilt.

Another bonus from Accuquilt is this free set of patterns and blocks, which you

receive when you sign up to receive their newsletter by email.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

To enter the giveaway:

1. Go to Accuquilt.com and tell me which 3 dies you would pick if you won!

2.'Like' Accuquilt on facebook, (*you do not need to leave a comment

on their facebook page) -come back here and tell me!

3. 'Like' Lisnaweary Quilts on facebook and come back and tell me.

4. Become a follower of this blog or tell me if you already are.

5. Blog or facebook about this giveaway, and come back and tell me.

Giveaway closes 11th December 2011 at midnight GMT.

Best of luck everyone!

This is a sponsored giveaway

'Flying High' - tutorial

2011-11-23T14:57:00.021Z

After playing about with the Accuquilt Go! baby this is what I've made.

'Flying High' - finished size 44" x 55".

I've never been in a hot air balloon, and I'm really not great with heights!

After making this mug rug, I wanted to make something else using a hot air balloon theme.

The Go! Circle die was super quick and the Rick Rack die made it very easy to cut the border.

Here's the tutorial:

1. Cut out white background fabric 28" x 39".

2. Pick various fabric scraps to cut out balloons. I had some fabrics left over from another project, some of it was cut into narrow strips. I was able to use these to make some of the balloons.

I stitched strips together ( they need to be at least 6 1/2" long - this is the width of the die), pressed the seams open and pressed a piece of bondaweb on the back.

3. Place the piece of fabric on top of the circle die, and place a cutting mat on top.

4. Roll the die through the cutter. (my 9 year old daughter loved doing this!)

5. Voila - perfect circles - or balloons! Cut out 6 small, 6 medium and 6 large circles using various colours of fabrics.

6. For the baskets, cut out 6 1" squares, 6 1 1/2" squares and 6 2 1/2" squares.

7. Place the balloons and baskets on the background fabric. Place the smallest ones at the top, medium ones in the middle and larger ones at the bottom. Press in place.

8. Using a water soluble marker and a ruler draw on the ropes between the basket and the balloon.

9. Using black thread sew around the balloons, down the ropes and around the basket.

I sewed several lines on the ropes to make them look a little thicker.

10. To make border, cut out 6 8 1/2" x width of fabric strips. Attach borders making sure to mitre corners.

11. To make the rick rack border, sew strips of fabric together as in step 2. This time you need to make a long piece of sewn strips. Two pieces measuring 54" x 6 1/2" and two pieces measuring 65" x 6 1/2".

12. Press the seams open.

12. Press bondaweb on the back of the strips.

13. Using a permanent pen, mark the edges of the die on the foam - this just makes it easier to see the end when you're placing the fabric on top. (The Rick Rack die is open ended, which allows you to fold long strips of fabric and the die will cut in a continuous piece.)

14.Place the strip of fabric on the die, folding over the fabric where the die is marked.

15. Place the cutting mat on top and roll through the baby!

16. Perfect rick rack!

17. Place the rick rack border on the quilt top with ends overlapping, matching the edge of the rick rack with the edge of the quilt top.

18. Using a ruler and water soluble pen, draw a line on the rick rack in line with the mitred corner and where the rick rack overlaps.

19. Fold back the top rick rack and repeat on the other rick rack.

20. Cut along each of the drawn lines one at a time.

21. These should meet perfectly. Pin the rick rack in place and repeat for all four corners.

22. Press the rick rack in place.

23. Start at the mitred corners and applique the rick rack in place.

24. Applique both sides of the rick rack in place.

25. Layer backing, wadding and quilt top - quilt as desired. I free machine quilted some loopy circles. I used Wonderfil Silco white thread for the background and black thread for the border.

26. Buy or make 1 1/2" single fold continuous bias binding. (There's a great tutorial here)

It really is necessary to use bias binding to get around all those curves.

Sew on the binding.
27. Trim back the excess fabric and wadding following the edge of the rick rack.

28. Carefully snip the curves.

29. Carefully fold the binding over, pin and sew in place.

There you have it - Flying High made with the help of the Accuquilt Go! baby!

Here's the back I pieced together:

I just have to make my quilt label now for the back and it will be complete.

As always I'd love to see your photos if you make 'Flying High', flickr group is here.

Nobody puts baby in a corner..

2011-11-16T19:15:00.007Z

Ok, it's a line from one of my all time favourite films :)

But it has been true this past couple of weeks!

I've been working hard on a tutorial using my new GO! baby - promise!

I had made this 'hot air balloon' mug rug for the 2011 Goodie Swap

and felt inspired to make some more:)

If all goes to plan I'll be able to post the tutorial next week.

Maybe I'll put on the 'Dirty Dancing' DVD and sing along as I quilt ;)

What's your all time favourite film?

New arrival

2011-11-02T14:31:00.004Z

I just have a couple of photos to share with you today.

This past weekend has been hectic in our house -

School half term and general Halloween madness is not conducive to sewing!

I got an old chair reupholstered this week, it really was in a sorry state

and I wish I had taken a 'before' photo of it.

This is the 'after' photo:

I had picked some tartan fabric in terracotta and green and am so delighted with the way it turned out. I had considered attempting to do it myself, but am so glad I didn't even try!

I did make the little Scottie dog to go with it using the pattern found here, I gave him a little leather collar and named him Hamish!

Yesterday saw the arrival of another new addition to our house:

oh yes! a GO! baby!

Things may be quiet here for a while - I've got a new baby to look after;)

Giveaway winner

2011-10-24T09:30:00.003+01:00

Thanks to everyone who entered the Quilters Quest giveaway!

I have finally figured out how to post a copy of the random number generator!

Patience was needed, but I got there in the end:)

Mr Random Number Generator has done his stuff and the winner is...

No. 26 - Congratulations Heather A!

Check your email!

Just to brighten up your Monday morning - here's a link to another giveaway going on at

'Love Affair With my Brother' - a chance to win 4 charm packs of Etchings by 3 sisters.

Blocks for others

2011-10-12T19:12:00.005+01:00

Quilters Quest giveaway is here

Before I start this post, I must apologise for the quality of the photos. The light had started to fade as I was taking them and I was unsure as whether or not to use the flash.

Anyway good or bad, here they are!

Today I made some blocks for Judith's charity quilting bee 'Bee Blessed'.

This is the second block for the 'bee' - a disappearing 9 patch block,

and is much larger than the wonky star block.

Next I made some blocks for Karen's 'Kind Stitches Bee'

She is making some non wadded quilts for a children's shelter in Pattaya, Thailand.

I hope these bright fabrics bring a little cheer.

Both these ladies from Northern Ireland, Judith and Karen,

are spreading a little quilty kindness to others through these bees.

They would really love your support by donating some blocks to their bees.

Check out their blogs for more details.

Quilters Quest Giveaway

2011-10-10T09:57:00.008+01:00

This giveaway is sponsored by Quilters Quest, Belfast.

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED

Quilters Quest is without doubt, the largest patchwork and quilting shop in Northern Ireland, with over 1500 bolts of fabric to choose from, waddings, notions, kits..you're spoilt for choice!

This wide range of fabrics can also be found in the on line shop, along with information about weekly classes and longarm quilting service by Yvonne.

In 2010, Yvonne won Best in Country - 'Ireland' with her quilt 'Twilight Sunsets', at the World Quilt Show,New England.

Yvonne did some fantastic long arm quilting on my 'Dot Dot Dash Quilt' for the Moda Bakeshop:

and also on my 'Blue Moon' quilt which is featured on the

front cover of Popular Patchwork magazine:)

One day Saturday workshops at Quilters Quest are very popular

and cover loads of techniques -

free motion quilting, piecing curves, handbags, folded patchwork -

the list is endless!

Check out the Quilters Quest website for the list of Saturday classes.

So here's the giveaway from Quilters Quest -

a beautiful 'Wildflower Fairies' panel

(Wouldn't that make a beautiful centre panel for a little girl's quilt?)

and also four fat quarters from Fabric Freedom's new range 'Deco Delights'

Here's how to enter:

1. 'Like' Quilters Quest on facebook, and come back and tell me.

2. Visit the Quilters Quest website and come back and

tell me what would be top of your shopping list!

3. Blog/facebook about this giveaway and come back and tell me.

4. Become a follower of Lisnaweary Quilts, or tell me if you already are:)

Giveaway closes 22nd October 2011 @ midnight GMT.

Internationl entries welcome!

Blarney Roses?

2011-10-06T11:12:00.004+01:00

A tune for Thursday.

Get your dancing shoes on and do a jig around the sewing room

You'll be humming this tune all day:D

Posh Pumpkins Tutorial

2011-10-04T10:59:00.011+01:00

I must say that pumpkins are not something that is traditionally grown in Ireland.

You are more likely to find a turnip in vegetable gardens, than a pumpkin!

But I do love them, especially for home decor!

So here is my version of the fabric pumpkin.

Some posh pumpkins;)

Not made from checks or plaids

But from some recycled ties!

Beg or plead from your family and friends - gather up some ties in autumnal colours!

Pick them apart, remove any wadding and press well to remove creases.

The measurements used are for the large pumkin,

the measurements for the smaller one are in the brackets.

1. Cut out a piece of non-iron on interfacing 12" x 24" (8 1/2" x 16").

Draw lines 3" (2") apart.

2. Cut strips from the ties 3 3/4" x 12" (2 3/4" x 8 1/2")
3. Swap the strips about and arrange the fabrics until you are happy with the layout.
4. The strips are sewn on using the stitch and flip method. Take the first strip of fabric and place right side up, on the opposite side of the interfacing from the drawn lines.

5. Place the second strip on top, right sides together. Pin together.
6. Flip over, and pin strips together along the sewing line.

(Pin really well as tie fabric tends to shift!)
7. Sew along line.
8. Flip back
9. Fold second piece over.

10. Press well.

11. Place third strip, right sides together on top of second strip and repeat previous steps,

until interfacing is covered.
12. Fold fabric in half, right side together. Sew a 1/4" seam to join sides together.
13. This makes a tube.
14. Take a 36" (24") piece of string. On the wrong side of the tube, place the string next to the edge of the fabric. Change the stitch on the sewing machine to a large zigzag stitch - it needs to be large enough to sew either side of the string and not catch it.
15.Sew the string on to the top of the tube, stop sewing when the start point is reached. Leave two ends of string hanging down.
16. Repeat for the other end of the tube.
17. At one end, start pulling both strings to gather the tube.
18. Try to get it as tight as possible - without breaking the string!
19. Tie off securely.
20. Place a small scrap of fabric over the whole to stop any stuffing falling out.
21. Stuff the pumpkin - firm or squishy? Your choice!
22. Pull the strings to gather the top of the tube.
23. Thread the string through a large needle and tie off securely. Then push the needle and string down through the pumkin to the bottom and back up again in order to make a 'dip' in the middle.
24. Keep sewing back and forth until all the string is used - tie off securely.
25. Cut out pumpkin stalk from felt or wool and sew some line down both sides.
26. Place stalks wrong sides together and sew a scant 1/4" seam down each side.
27. Cut out an oval for the top of the stalk.28. Place at the top of the stalk and hand sew in place.
29. Stuff the stalk.
30. Place on top of the pumpkin and pin in place.
31. Using a double strand of embroidery thread, whip stitch the stalk in place.

32. To finish off, I tied some string around the stalk and a pumpkin leaf.

Roxy certainly blends in with them!

She's such a poser!

If you try these pumpkins I'd love to see some photos:)

You can upload your photos to the flickr group here.

Guest posting at Sew we Quilt!

2011-09-27T15:41:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow I'm guest posting at Sew we Quilt!

Madame Samm has been running a Wantobe Quilter campaign

and I was delighted when she asked me to post my 'Hippy Square' tutorial:)I remade my original tutorial using the fantastic Creative Grids non slip multi size triangle ruler.Just so you know, Madame Samm has giveaways 5 days a week up until 29th October - well worth visiting Sew we Quilt! To enter any of the giveaways, you need to register,send me your name, email and phone no. and I will forward them to Madam Samm.Your information will be held confidentially,will go no further and will be destroyed when the campaign is over.(you will not be able to win if you do not register with me or another participating blogger)You also need to follow my blog and Sew we Quilt! and leave a comment on the appropriate day- If you are a brand new quilter, your days are Mon, Wed and Fri.If you already are a quilter, comment on Tues and Thurs.Oh and don't forget to mention my blog in your comment/entry, because if you win, I win too:)Please check out this post if you want further info.http://www.sewwequilt.com/2011/08/wantobe-quilter-sponsor-day-recap-of.htmlPhew! that's a lot of info:)Don't forget..tomorrow...Sew we Quilt!

2011-09-26T12:04:00.004+01:00

I finally got my mug rugs and goodies finished for the Goodie Swap 2011,

hosted by Cindy at Fluffy Sheep Quilting.

This is the mug rug and needle keeper for partner no.2.

She had asked for something in red, white and blue.. plenty in my stash in those colours.

This is partner no.1's needle keeper, a request of aqua, pink and green...not so much green in this but I hope she likes it!

Cute balloons seems to inspire me! I'll have to make some more of those -

daughter no.1 was coveting them!

Fingers crossed now that my partners like them!

I have already received one of my goodie packages from Contented Caroline:

I had admired this mug rug when Caroline had posted

the photo on flickr, not realising it was for me!

Also included in the parcel was a covered diary,

a book mark and the most fantastic handmade card!

I can't wait to see what no.2 partner has made for me!

Blue Moon

2011-09-15T13:21:00.003+01:00

My postman brought a very nice package today -

the new issue of Popular Patchwork.

I was very excited - guess who's quilt is on the cover?

It doesn't happen often - just once in a blue moon!

The quilt was made using a log cabin block, and long arm quilted by Yvonne McKee.

I'll make this a tuneful Thursday and share one of my favourite songs :)

Mug Rug and a Giveaway winner

2011-09-02T09:40:00.006+01:00

So the important news.....according to Mr Random No. Generator, the Creative Grids giveaway winner is....

Doina who said "I like the Rotating Cutting Mat 18" x 18""

Congratulations Doina! Email me your address and I'll post your parcel asap.

This week with the children returning to school, there is a faint glimmer of hope that maybe,

just maybe there will be more chance of some uninterrupted sewing!

I have signed up for the Fluffy Sheep Goodie Swap, for this swap I have to make a Mug Rug which is totally new to me. Here is my first attempt.

After I had made it, I thought that maybe a white background wasn't the best choice if someone puts their coffee or tea on it:)

The back is a bit more practical -

I printed some Irish town names on Irish linen, frayed the edges a little and appliqued them on to some matching floral fabric.

A little reminder to the recipient of where their Mug Rug came from! Hope she likes it!

Have you made a Mug Rug? Do you use one?

Wonky Stars

2011-08-29T12:41:00.005+01:00

The Creative Grids Giveaway can be found here.

Closing date 31st August.

I only got a little sewing done at the weekend,

I'm still trying to get the Dresden blocks finished from Lily's QAL!

(Yes, they have been ongoing since March! Maybe I shouldn't have made 6..)

However I did find a quiet moment to make some Wonky Star blocks for the Bee Blessed project.

Bee Blessed has been set up by Judith who blogs at Rags to Bags and Sarah who blogs at Sew me. "The purpose of this group is to make quilts and other projects that we can gift to needy families/people/groups in our local area."

The guidelines are here and the Flickr group is here, jump in and try a Wonky Star block.

U-Handbag.com pattern review

2011-08-25T15:12:00.009+01:00

The Creative Grids giveaway can be found here

Last month we were invited to a friend's wedding,

here is the happy couple John and Andrea.

The bride was beautiful.... the rain stayed away...the band played..

I had bought myself a new dress..(as nothing else fitted!)

Then, as we sat in the Church waiting for the Bride to arrive..the worst thing happened.

Nobody fainted, nobody collapsed, oh no it was worse than that.

Someone else came to the wedding wearing the same dress as me!

It was much too lovely a day to let this minor thing ruin it,

I did what was expected, I carried on regardless:)

One thing I am most certain of is, that the 'other' lady did not have the same handbag as me!

I had searched shops to find a nice handbag to match my dress,

but couldn't find anything I liked.

So I decided to make one in the same colours as my dress from a pattern by Lisa Lam.

I already own 'The Bag Making Bible' by Lisa Lam,

which is the best buy ever if you like making your own handbags.

I searched Lisa's blog and found the 'Baguette Clutch Purse' pattern

which is available as a PDF download.

The pattern is laid out in point form with loads of photos which

helps explain each step of the pattern.

I decided to 'make' some fabric to match my dress, firstly I took some Angelina fibres and placed them on some black fabric. I then cut out some diamond shapes from various satin/silk type fabrics and sewed them onto the black fabric with black thread.

After that I just treated it as ordinary fabric and made it according to Lisa's pattern.

I used a silver Big Bobble Purse Frame, and added some sparkly flowers for a little more bling!

I used plain black fabric for the side panels.

And lined the bag with plain purple.

I loved making this handbag, it was just the right size to hold a small camera, purse and lippy.

My handbag was unique, even if my dress wasn't! :)

Rugby flag, the story continues...

2011-08-24T06:30:00.001+01:00

The Creative Grids Giveaway can be found here

You may remember I blogged about making this flag here.

Just thought I'd give you an update....

The flag travelled with the Dungannon Rugby team to New York (Monmouth County),

then on to Boston (Norfolk County), where they won both matches!

I haven't seen the flag since the team returned home,

presuming it did come home?? :D

More blocks pinwheel/star blocks

2011-08-23T14:18:00.005+01:00

The Creative Grids giveaway can be found here

Once I got started with the Creative Grids Multi triangle ruler, I found it very hard to stop!

I searched through my stash and came up with these fabrics.

Some of them were bought from Fiddlesticks Fabrics in Ballyclare, and the grey Kona solid was originally bought from 'Simply Solids' to go along with some 'Sherbet Pips'

(Which I haven't touched yet!)

Today I'm linking to Quilt Story, their button is in my sidebar.

Yesterday was my daughter Sarah's 13th birthday,

so as a treat she and I went to Belfast to do some birthday shopping.

It was a beautiful sunny day, there were even people enjoying their

lunch break at the front of the City Hall.

We met up with Judith from 'Rags to Bags' and had a good natter over lunch.

She even persuaded me to join up with Cindy's Goodie Swap!

I then dragged Sarah to one of my favourite shops - Avoca, where I ooohed and aaahed over all their wonderful throws and ceramic ranges.

Then we came across these chaps in another shop!

I think they're just gorgeous,

maybe gorgeous is the wrong word?

And maybe just a little early to be in the shop for Halloween!

Are you ready to see Halloween or Christmas in the shops?

Creative Grids Giveaway

2011-08-22T06:30:00.003+01:00

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

The giveaway, sponsored by Creative Grids is this lovely little bunch!

A True Cut Rotary Blade Sharpener

A new non slip Basic Range 4" x 14" rectangle ruler

A new non slip multi size triangle ruler 45 and 90 degrees

And finally a Creative Grids Non slip ruler demonstration DVD.

Yes really all this!!

Creative Grids specialises in non slip rulers made especially with quilters in mind. I am always impressed by the range of rulers and quality cutting mats they sell. There is an online offer at the minute for free p&p across the entire site - UK ONLY.

I was very curious about the True Cut rotary blade sharpener, but it does exactly what it says on the packaging. I tried it out on an old blade which was ready for the bin, and it brought it back to a sharp finish.

Inside the plastic exterior is a sharpening stone

which sharpens the blade as the rotary cutter is pushed along the track.

It says on the instructions that about 20 goes should sharpen the blade,

I found that it took a few more than this for my blade.

I guess it depends on how dull the blade is!

Next up, I tried out the new non slip multi size triangle ruler. Very handy for cutting out triangles from strips of fabric, half and quarter square triangles.

To make half square triangles, first of all cut a strip of fabric.

The width of strip will determine what size of triangle you end up with.

I cut a 3 1/2" strip, which as you can see written on the ruler,

will give me a finished square of 3".

Cut along the straight edge and then cut along the sloped edge. To save time it is also possible to double up the strips and cut more than one at once.

Turn the ruler 180 degrees and place in line with the cut edge.

You may notice the flat edge at the top of the triangle,

I found this a very useful guide when sewing two triangles together.

On the other end of the ruler is the guide for cutting quarter square triangles.

Again the size of the strip determines the size of the triangle.

All measurement details are included with the ruler.

Place the ruler on the strip of fabric according to the markings.

Cut along each side of the triangle ruler.

And hey presto, quarter square triangles!

Just turn the ruler 180 degrees and cut again.

I found it very easy to match up the triangles.

The triangles matched perfectly

And I just love this pin wheel made from two quarter square triangles and a half square triangle.

I found this block layout on the McCalls Quilting website.

I think I may just have the beginning of a new pin wheel quilt!

Back to the giveaway - how useful would this lot be??

There are three ways to enter:

1. Blog/facebook about this give away and come back and let me know you have.

2. Visit the Creative Grids website and come back and tell me

what would be top of your shopping list!

3. Become a follower or tell me if you already are.

Give away closes Wednesday 31st August 2011 @ midnight GMT

International entries welcome.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

FOQ 2011

2011-08-16T22:32:00.003+01:00

After a busy shopping day on Saturday at the Festival of quilts,

my friend Edna and I went to a 'Designer Supper' which was hosted by Rowan and Coats fabrics.

After eating our fill of beef chilli and pavlova (which were extremely small!),

we were given an introduction to some of the people who design at Free Spirit fabrics.

Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably,Tanya Whelan, Nel Whatmore, Melissa White

and Lisa Lam who designs handbags.

I was sitting beside some lovely ladies from Norway,

who were determined to get front row seats for the presentation!

Some of the fabulous quilts on display.

We also got a chance to ask the designers some questions and of course a photo opportunity!

I also got a chance to speak to Lisa Lam, and I was so busy asking her questions,

I forgot to take a photo!

On Sunday we shopped again and stopped by to visit Mandy at Simply Solids, Kate at the Fat Quaterly stand and Rachel at Creative Grids.

Ola!

2011-08-10T21:47:00.000+01:00

I'm still in Spanish mode- I feel a bit like Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story 3! We have just returned from a lovely family holiday in Spain, where I found my Spanish language skills severely lacking. In fact 'hello', 'goodbye' and 'thank-you' just about covers it!

Anyway, back home to some lovely soft Irish rain, and the exciting prospect of travelling to Birmingham this weekend to the Festival of Quilts! This year, I will take loads of photos and hide the camera before my daughter manages to delete them!

Also this week I have another piece of exciting news - my 'Fabric is the Key to my Heart' wall hanging will be published in Popular Patchwork magazine. And if you're at the Festival of Quilts look out for it hanging on the 'Popular Patchwork' stand.

This is the original one, made from Irish Linen

And this is the bright version made from the Central Park fabric line from Kate Spain and Moda.

I'll be at the Festival of Quilts on Saturday and Sunday, so if you see me please say 'hello', or drop me an email and maybe we can do coffee?

Flags

2011-07-25T11:38:00.004+01:00

I blogged about this flag back in April.

I made it for my son who plays rugby for Dungannon Under 19s.

The 1st XV team had an important match back in the Springtime,

so as an enthusiastic supporter, I thought he needed a flag!

It did come back in unscathed from the match and is presently hanging in the clubhouse!

It measures approx. 55" x 36".

Once I had the crest drawn out, with the help of some Bondaweb,

it all came together quite quickly.

This summer, I thought I would make my nephew a similar one.

He is going on tour with the 1st XV team to the USA next month. (Boston area I think!)

I wonder if it will come back in one piece?:)

Where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea..

2011-07-16T22:25:00.000+01:00

At the minute my blogability seems to have taken a vacation.

I guess with children about home all day, there seems to be a million other things to do.

Last week my sister and my two youngest travelled to Newcastle, Co.Down.

'Where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea..' so said Percy French.

It was a blustery day, but in between showers my daughters had a swim in the outdoor pool!

Not just the ideal weather conditions, but at least it was heated!

Sewing at the minute is very slow, although some flying geese did take off today!

Hopefully I'll have some pictures next week.

Giveaway winner

2011-07-01T10:45:00.008+01:00

Thanks everyone for entering the cowboy giveaway, and the winner is

Denise who said "I vote for Cactus Kid and Bo!"

Congratulations Denise! Please email me your details.

I'm teaching tomorrow with a local craft group,

We're going to be making some double wedding rings!

My children have finished school for the summer break and

I'm hoping to take a little break from sewing for a few weeks!

How long will I last?

Well hopefully long enough to get caught up on some cleaning

and have a few day trips with the kids!

Giveaway reminder

2011-06-26T15:08:00.004+01:00

Giveaway closes on Wednesday 29th June and can be found here.

I was teaching on Saturday at Fiddlesticks Fabrics, a newly opened shop in Ballyclare, Co. Antrim.

I had a great day teaching my 'Wild West Quilt' and we all had a laugh!

The fabrics in Fiddlesticks are lovely, nice and modern and fresh.

Of course I couldn't leave without buying some!

Erin McMorris Weekends

If only I lived a little closer to the shop..

So confess, did you buy any fabric this weekend?

Wild West Girls!

2011-06-21T07:00:00.003+01:00

Those 'Wild West Girls', Ruby and Blossom have arrived!

I am so excited, here is my first project on the

Riley Blake, Cutting Corners College:)

The quilt is made using the 'Wanna Be a Cowboy 2' range

by Samantha Walker for Riley Blake.

Each girl has their own expression!

Isn't that backing fabric fantastic?

What more could you want than pink cowboy boots :D

Too pink for you? Check out the boys' version.

Both quilts were long arm quilted by Yvonne McKee.

Templates for the boys hair can be downloaded here.

Full instructions and templates for the 'Wild West Girls' are at the Cutting Corners College.

By the way...I have some scraps of

'Wanna Be a Cowboy 2' fabric

leftover after making the quilt..I think maybe, I should have a giveaway:)

So to be in with a chance to win:

I've called my 'Wild West Girls' Ruby and Blossom,

leave me a comment and tell me what I should call my 'Wild West Boys'?

For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you already are!

Closing date Midnight GMT Wed 29th June.

Fabric swap

2011-06-14T12:00:00.003+01:00

I've just signed up to a fabric swap over at Fluffy Sheep Quilting

This is a first for me!

I always like getting nice packages in the post,

so I know I'm going to love this!

It's open to UK and Ireland fabricaholics so pop over and sign up!

New friends coming to stay...

2011-06-10T06:30:00.002+01:00

I'd like to introduce you to my new bffs!

They'll be arriving in June!

Favourite hobby:

Ruby: Horse riding

Blossom: Singing

Favourite Song:

Ruby: 'Cowboy Sweetheart'

Blossom: 'The Colour of the Wind'

Favourite Film:

Ruby: Toy Story

Blossom: Pocahontas

Favourite Fabric Company:

Ruby & Blossom: Riley Blake!

Double Wedding Ring

2011-06-09T12:11:00.004+01:00

I've been working on a Double Wedding Ring block for a workshop I'm teaching next month.

I like the bright colours in this - makes it cheery!

I made it from some scraps, and now I would like to add a couple more 'rings' to it.

Guess I'll be sorting through my scrap bin for the rest of the day!

Times like this, I wish I was organised and had my scraps sorted into colour groups!

Do you sort your scraps, or do you keep them all together?

I'm back...

2011-06-07T19:54:00.005+01:00

It's been more than a week since my last blog! I can only wonder where it went!

I got back from Co.Kerry safely, and after the six hour drive was like a zombie!

I know that in North America this is probably considered a short drive, but in Northern Ireland it really is considered an extremely long one!

I had a lovely time with the South West branch of the Irish Patchwork Society, and I was made most welcome! This is the fantastic view I woke up to on Saturday morning - in the distance (just behind the low clouds!) you can see the mountain range of Macgillycuddy's Reeks.

Last weekend we travelled to Belfast to see the 'Titanica' exhibition at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. Of course we had to have a look at the steam engines first of all, and where we found this plaque for the Clogher Valley Railway Co. (Long since dismantled!)

Fantastic steam engines

From times gone by.. or Harry Potter!

31st May 2011 was the 100th anniversary of the launch of Titanic in Belfast.

Built by the shipyard Harland and Wolff, it was at the top end of luxury cruise ships.

Over 15 000 men worked on the Titanic in Belfast.

The photos of the interior of the ship were amazing, and here is a photo of some of the china used on board. Floral china for the first class passengers and a more basic pattern for 2nd class!

There were also items, which were inspired by the Titanic...

HISTORY LESSON:) Did you know Titanic was built in Belfast, sailed from Southampton on 12th April 1912, stopped at Cherbourg, France and Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland to take on more passengers, before starting her maiden voyage to New York?

Does Titanic have any interest for you?

Giveaway Winner

2011-05-26T09:01:00.003+01:00

Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway,

and thanks for all your lovely comments about my quilt!

I enjoyed reading about your favourite fabrics. I think my all time favourite fabric is 'Darla' by Tanya Whelan, followed closely by 'Just Wing it' by MoMo and I'm really looking forward to Kate Spain's new line 'Terrain'. Oh I could list plenty more,

but I guess you want to know who the winner is?

Well the random number generator has spoken and the winner is....

ETHNE who said "Oh you can get so much inspiration from the fabrics in Patty Youngs-Grand Bazaar range - strong colours and the patterns - dots, trellis, funky flowers,dragonflies etc-mixed with solids you'd have some stunning quilt/s.

Email me your address Ethne and I'll post off your parcel!

I'm off on my travels tomorrow, I'm driving down to Castlemaine, Co. Kerry to visit with the South-West Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society.

I'm really looking forward to it, just have a 5 hour drive to get there!

Ballynanny Bluebells and another giveaway!

2011-05-22T22:54:00.004+01:00

Finally, I can show you what I was making with those Kansas Troubles Favourites fabrics!

Ballynanny Bluebells, which is featured in the latest Irish Quilting magazine.
This quilt was inspired by the tiled floor in our Church porch.
We belong to Ballynanny Methodist Church.
And the bluebells are found in a wooded area just behind the Church.

Hence the name Ballynanny Bluebells!
The quilt was long arm quilted by Beryl Cadman. She did a fabulous job on the quilt and the threads she used really highlighted the designs.

Unfortunately the bluebells were not in bloom when the photos were taken, but the cherry blossom was just beginning to peep through!

So to celebrate, I thought I'd take part in Sew Mama Sew's big giveaway day
I have some pieces of Kansas Trouble Favourites left over from making Ballynanny Bluebells which I will put in a parcel, along with the latest Irish Quilting magazine and you never know there could be a surprise popped in there aswell!

Fancy some of these beautiful fabrics to play around with?

To enter:

1. Tell me what your favourite fabric range is at the moment - just pick one!

2. Become a follower and tell me, or tell me if you already are a follower.

I will ship internationally, giveaway will remain open until midnight GMT on 25th May.

Be sure to check out the other giveaways on Sew Mama Sew's blog!

Bloggers Quilt Festival Dot Dot Dash

2011-05-16T00:01:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Amy over at Amy's Creative Side,
it's Bloggers Quilt Festival time again!

I'd like to share a quilt I made for the Moda Bakeshop,

it's called Dot Dot Dash.

The backing fabric was lovely, polka dots that increased in size!

I love this picture, even though it doesn't show very much of the quilt!
Thankfully the snow has long gone, but this will be
my daughters treasured quilt for years to come!

So go on over to Amy's and check out the other fabulous quilts on show.

Giveaway winners

2011-05-15T15:18:00.004+01:00

Thank-you to everyone who entered the giveaway!

Without further ado the winners according to
Mr Random Number Generator are:
Number 25:

Memmens who said "I'm making a quilt, fabric flower hair clips for bridesmaids, shorts and pillowcase dresses! Busy, busy!"

and

Number 92:

Jennifer who said "I am working on making a american flag made out of fabric yo yo's."
Congratulations!

Please email me your details and I'll post your fabric asap!

Sliced plan

2011-05-09T18:35:00.006+01:00

I think my joke about the sliced plan in my Hippy Square Tutorial, got lost somewhere over the Irish sea!

Sliced plan

Sliced pan (sliced bread in Ireland!)

Anyone heard of a 'sliced pan'?

(don't forget to enter the Giveaway, open until Friday)

Hippy Square Tutorial

2011-05-05T19:23:00.020+01:00

Fabric Requirements for one block:
Colour 1(purple): a fat eighth
Colour 2(red): a fat eighth
Colour 3(yellow): 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" scrap
Background: a fat quarter

Cutting Instructions
Purple 10 2 7/8" x 2 7/8"
Pink 4 2 7/8" x 2 7/8"
2 6 1/2" x 2 1/2"
6 2 1/2" x 2 1/2"
White 6 2 7/8" x 2 7/8"
4 6 1/2" x 2 1/2"
8 4 1/2" x 2 1/2"
4 2 1/2" x 2 1/2"
Yellow 1 4 1/2" x 4 1/2"

So first of all we're going to split the block into 5 different slices -
I call it my sliced plan :D)

1.To Make Half Square Triangles:
Take 10 purple 7/8" x 2 7/8" squares, 4 pink 2 7/8" x 2 7/8" squares and 6 white 2 7/8" x 2 7/8" squares.
Draw a diagonal line in pencil or water soluble pen on the wrong side of the purple squares.

2. Place a purple and pink square wrong sides together and using the line as a guide, sew a 1/4" seam on either side. Repeat for purple and white squares aswell.
3. Take a ruler and rotary cutter and cut along drawn line on each sewn square.
4. Press open, pressing seam towards darker fabric. Trim off 'ears' sticking out at corners of squares.
5. To make top and bottom slices of the block:Arrange a white piece 6 1/2" x 2 1/2", then two half square triangles of purple and white, and finally another white piece 6 1/2" x 2 1/2". 6. Sew together. 7. Make two, one for top slice and one for bottom slice.

8. Arrange a 6 1/2" x 2 1/2" piece of pink fabric, two half square triangles of pink and purple, then a single 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" square, as shown in photo below.

9. Sew together. Make two, one for top and one for bottom of block. 10. Arrange Half Square Triangles as shown in photo below, with a white piece 4 1/2" x 2 1/2" in the middle and a single square at the end. 11. Make two.
12. Arrange two strips as shown in the photo, matching seams.
13. Sew together. Make two of these.
14. Sew a piece of white 4 1/2" x 2 1/2" to each end.
15.Repeat for second piece.Press well. Now sew the piece made in step 7 to the top of this, matching seams. (Refer to diagram)
16. Take the yellow 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" square and 4 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" squares.Draw a diagonal line on the wrong sides of the white squares. 17. Place two white squares on opposite corners of the yellow square, wrong sides together. Sew along diagonal lines.
18.Trim off leaving a 1/4" seam allowance.
19. Repeat for other two corners.
20. Again trim off, leaving 1/4" seam.
21. Press well.
22. Sew a 4 1/2" x 2 1/2" piece of white fabric to opposite sides of the diamond. 23.Add half square triangles and single squares as shown in the photo below.
24. Now its time to sew all the pieces together! Mix up your colours for that Hippy look!I'd love to see your blocks, I've got a Flickr group here, so upload your photo and share your colour combinations!

Hippy Squares

2011-05-05T11:56:00.008+01:00

I got carried away with those bright colours!

I have put sashing in between

and bright squares at the corners.

To make just ONE block you would need:

Colour One: a fat eighth

Colour Two: a fat eighth

Colour Three: a 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" scrap

Background: a fat quarter

So spread some Hippy Square love..

tutorial will be here tomorrow!

Hippy Square

2011-05-03T13:47:00.004+01:00

Or as Huey Lewis said 'Its hip to be square'

(now I'm showing my age..)

So I had an idea to use these little spotties!

First block..
There's a bit of piecing to get this one to work, but I think its worth it!
To make a similar block, you'll need some dark and medium
fabrics and a light background.
Wondered if anyone would like a tutorial for this block?

Thanks

2011-04-28T10:34:00.007+01:00

A big thank-you to everyone who popped over to the Moda Bakeshop to see my Criss Cross quilt, and welcome to anyone who found themselves on my blog!

When we visited Paris in February, I picked up these bright spotty fabrics in a shop near the Sacre Coeur. It sells every sort of fabric you could imagine! So while I'm watching Wills and Kate say 'I do' on Friday morning,

I'll be sewing up something special.. I'll share it next week!

Criss Cross Quilt

2011-04-26T06:00:00.010+01:00

I'm delighted to share my latest recipe on the Moda Bakeshop :)

Criss Cross QuiltIt's made using two charm packs and some extra yardage of 'Just Wing it!' by Momo for Moda. I just love the large prints on the back! Quick to put together and very little wastage,every scrap of the charm pack is used! Super colours!
Perfect for a little girl or boy!

And especially for you: (drum roll please!)

The Fat Quarter Shop are offering a 10% discount

on 'Just Wing it!' fabric up until 18th May.

The discount code is: justwingit

Catch up and Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T17:31:00.008+01:00

Spring is in full fling in the Clogher Valley.

A spell of sunny weather has given us

thorn hedges in bloom...

Trees and flowers have come to life
Here is a view of Knockmany - a hill we love to walk.
And this is a view from the top on a very hazy day,
the view is normally much more spectacular!
Patchwork class has come to an end for this season,
here are some of the class members with only a few of the items we made...
I recently offered to make my son a flag for a big rugby game he was going to.
Two days of sewing later....
He was pleased with the flag,
unfortunately the result of the game was not as pleasing!

Happy Easter!

and...
'Just Wing it' back here on Tuesday for my latest Moda Bakeshop project ;)

Pretty in Pink

2011-04-05T11:13:00.010+01:00

Got some lovely new fabric in the post, from Riley Blake Designs!!

Pink, pink, pink!

Can't wait to get started on this project

for Riley Blake's 'Cutting Corners College'.

Its a great place to find patttern ideas for their fabric.

But here's a problem,

do I finish this?

or do I just dive in and start a new project?

Are you a finisher?

Or do you just keep on starting?!

Home again

2011-03-27T17:32:00.004+01:00

So the retreat was brilliant!

I drove down to Dublin early on Friday morning, and did a machine quilting workshop with Barbara Barber. It was great, her work is amazing!

Aswell as this quilt 'Fishy Affair', she had brought her 'Cats' quilt and we were able to see it on display. Then on Saturday morning I did another workshop with Barbara called 'Really Sharp Piecing'. Jean and Louise did a super job on their curves and points!

Stitch ripper at hand, I was happy with mine too!

I never got time to post this photo last week, its my latest offering for Lily's Quilts Quiltalong.

They were all randomly put together, but I think it'll work!

Dublin here I come!

2011-03-24T19:11:00.003Z

I had to buy some more 'Hunky Dory' fabric this week to finish off my piecing for Lily's Quilts Quiltalong.

My fabric stash just didn't stretch far enough.

This line of fabric may just be my all time favourite.

I am off to Dublin tomorrow for the Quilter's Guild of Ireland retreat.

I'm a very new member, so am looking forward to taking part...

in fact I can't wait!

I've signed up for two workshops with Barbara Barber.

Sew, sew, sew. Stop for coffee. Sew, sew, sew. Stop for lunch.

It'll be great!

Fabrics for Lily's Quiltalong

2011-03-20T14:47:00.003Z

I've never taken part in a quiltalong before, its a whole new world!

After much consideration I have picked my fabrics for Lily's Quiltalong.

These are fabrics from my stash, mostly 'Hunky Dory' by Chez Moi for Moda. There is also some dearly loved 'Darla' by Tanya Whelan and a few checks aswell. They were randomly sewn together, I'm afraid 'orderly' was thrown out the window! The background will be plain white and the centre circle will be a different print each time. It's quite quick to sew together, which is great!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T11:41:00.005Z

Happy St.Patrick's Day!

It's very quiet in our house this morning,

even though all the children are off school:)

They decided a lie in was needed!

I have something green to share with you

on this the greenest day of the year!

Ok, not very Irish!

I was reading some other quilting blogs recently and came across someone who reccommended gardening/working gloves as an alternative to proper - made for the purpose - quilting gloves. I ran off to our nearest hardware store and purchased these, not the height of fashion, but they are super for free motion quilting. They're also a lot cheaper than the conventional quilting gloves:)

I have no idea what the true purpose of these gloves are, but they are coated with a bubbly rubber surface on the palm side and a knitted fabric on the back.

Bobbins at the ready, I'm all set to go!

Charley Harper Quiltalong

2011-03-10T12:29:00.004Z

I have finally picked an image to use as the basis for my project,

for the Charley Harper quilt along.We have quite a few of these 'Phancy Pheathers' running about in our hedgerows, I guess thats why it appeals to me so much:)

I might end up with a row of these fellas,

but I do want to get some different textures into the project.

I have no idea what the final item will be, it is quite a tall image, so should I make it small and squish it into a cushion or should I make a really tall and skinny wallhanging?

Decisions, decisions....

Its got a lot to do with the packaging...

2011-03-09T15:26:00.004Z

A few days ago I ordered some grey Moda fabric from an online shop.

It arrived this morning in the usual plastic packaging,

but when I opened it....

I got a lovely package wrapped in pink tissue paper and tied with ribbon!

Now, I have ordered online from various shops,

but never ever have I got such a pretty parcel.

It made my morning:)

Practice makes perfect

2011-03-08T15:17:00.007Z

I've just finished my latest quilt top, ready now to put the

backing and wadding together and then machine quilt...

So I'm practicing some free motion quilting...

Maybe some butterflies to echo the ones on the fabric?

Although mine are a completly different shape:D

getting more realistic...?

Maybe I'll stick with some curly wurly lines!

I do like the idea of putting a name in the quilting.

I need to practice, practice,practice!

Whats your favourite quilting motif?

Do you stick with the same one each time?

New projects

2011-03-05T15:23:00.008Z

I'm putting together a new project for the Moda Bakeshop,

its made from the fabric 'Just wing it!' by MoMo.

There is quite a bit of blue in the quilt which doesn't really show up in this photo. Quilt top is nearly complete, just have to add the borders.

Over at the Flaming Stiches blog, Ethne has just announced a Charley Harper Quiltalong.

Now I am going to be completely truthful and say that up until this point in time I had never heard of Charley Harper. After looking at some of his artwork I am truly inspired to take part in this quilt along. This quiltalong will also give me a chance to finally figure out how Flickr works:D

Bonjour!

2011-02-26T18:19:00.005Z

This is the reason my blog has been quiet...

Took a little break in Paris, freezing cold but very enjoyable!

As soon as I came home, I managed to get my Kansas Troubles Favourites quilt top sent off to be long arm quilted. I really can't wait until it comes back - I think it's always a surprise to see it again, and the

difference the quilting makes to it!

I made a New Year's resolution this year that I would practice my free motion quilting more often...so that hasn't really happened..I'm starting again next week..it'll be a new March resolution for me!

Anybody else need to make some new March resolutions?

Leah's birthday

2011-02-16T15:49:00.003Z

My youngest is 9 years old this week

Oh I feel old :(

She wanted a cake that looked like Hector

Wish I could say that I made the cake, but I didn't.

Super cute!

Ulster American

2011-02-08T09:39:00.003Z

We visited the Ulster American Folk Park on Sunday,

it's a museum of emigration and folk life.

Originally called the 'Mellon Folk Park', named after Thomas Mellon, founder of the Mellon Bank, who left these shores to make his fortune in America.

The current exhibition is called 'Through the Eye of a Needle' There were lovely pieces of embroidery...

"Today is short. Yesterday is gone.

Tomorrow may never come.

If you have anything to do. Do it now"

..a warning to us all! some crazy patchwork.. and many other things related to sewing in the past.

Outside we enjoyed looking around all the houses.

We began our journey in Ireland, there are many traditional cottages, meeting houses, a school house, blacksmith..

Then we made our way to town and boarded the ship for America

After landing in America, we checked out the pioneer houses! Of course there were many patchwork quilts in all the cottages and cabins,
this one caught my eye
All that travelling fitted into a Sunday afternoon!
We really needed more time to look around, we'll most definitely be back.

I've got troubles....

2011-02-07T14:28:00.005Z

Yes, I've got troubles...but they're the best kind....Kansas Troubles.....

Just a little peek at the Kansas Troubles Favourites under my needle today.

Go over to the Kansas Troubles blog for their contribution to the

Moda Pillow Talk Blog Hop today.

Got any troubles under your needle?

My blog button...

2011-02-05T15:39:00.005Z

I have just spent a long time figuring out how to make my own blog button,

oh I hope it works!! I'm relying on someone out there to let me know...and if it doesn't work....well the rubbish bin is looking pretty good just about now!!

I looked for advice on this blog,

otherwise, I don't think I could ever have made it.

There is also a recipe there for beer can chicken...sounds interesting,

anyone ever try it?

Invite to Stash Manicure

2011-01-28T07:00:00.002Z

I'm soo excited... I'm a guest over at the Stash Manicure blog!!

Thanks for the invite Madam Samm!

Check out my post, it's my Dot Dot Dash tutorial from the Moda Bake Shop.

As I mentioned before this quilt was inspired by the work of Scottish artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Earlier this week we braved the cold weather and went for a walk in Fardross Forest, not far from our home.We had the whole place to ourselves...Isn't the moss fantastic?The snow has gone away, but the weather is still quite cold..Yes, that really is ice on the stream...I was standing on the stepping stones when I took this picture!

Anyway for the rest of this week, I have been busy working on a new quilt.

Sorry no details yet!

Tomorrow I'm going to help out at a Girl Guide holiday weekend, it will be action packed - tie dying t-shirts, grass sledging, sing songs and probably very little sleep - all part of the fun!!

The postman brought me a beautiful parcel today, something to think about when I'm away...

Felted jumpers

2011-01-14T12:28:00.001Z

I am busy this week preparing projects for a patchwork class I am starting next week in a local Church Hall. Its very exciting to start something completely new.

I've also been experimenting with felting. Late last year I went to a felt making class. We made felt from wool tops, and after a little bit of work we made beautiful little bags. I'm really taken with feltmaking. I don't think it will replace patchwork with me, but it's nice to do something a little different occasionally.Anyway, recently I gathered up a few old wool jumpers and put them through a really hot machine wash...of course I got minature jumpers! (Although there were a couple of pure wool cardigans that didn't shrink at all, you just never know what you'll get out)

I cut the sleeves off, then trimmed off the seams..

now I'm all set to make a patchwork felt handbag..
I'll let you know how it turns out.

Dot Dot Dash Quilt

2011-01-07T09:15:00.000Z

Here's my new quilt for the Moda Bake Shop...A little bit inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh... I had a model to help me with the photos...
who was a bit camera shy...
and another model...
who had to keep her paws off the quilt!

It was long arm quilted by Yvonne McKee,

beautiful butterflies..a little touch of Spring in Winter..

Hope you like it, I sure had fun with it!

A New Year... a new start

2011-01-04T12:15:00.006Z

Tomorrow 3 out of my 4 kids will be back at school.

We have had a great holiday with family and friends,

but it'll be so good to get back into routine again.

Projects that were on the back burner will be approached with a new enthusiam.

Mind you, some will, with out a doubt, stay there!

Over at Jaybird Quilts the new year has started with a bang,

Julie is hosting a giveaway sponsored by me!

So for your chance to win this quilt kit, hop on over to Jaybird Quilts!

And to all my new followers, Welcome!

I was reading all of the comments over at Julie's blog and was amazed at how many people would love to visit Ireland. Did you know the first ever Internationl Quilt Festival of Ireland will be held in 2012? Now there's an excuse to plan a trip if ever I heard one! And just between you and me, if you like the official Quilt Festival facebook page, you automatically get entered into a draw to win a trip to the festival! Imagine that! So watcha waiting for?? Hop on over, tell Jim I'm spreading the word!

Crafting with the stars

2011-01-01T18:18:00.004Z

I've decided to give it a go, and entered a blog competition!

Crafting with the stars is going on over at the Sew Dang Cute blog,

I've entered my Sparkly Trees - I made them just before

Christmas from old buttons.

Why not enter something?

Go on, you've got nothing to lose!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T12:38:00.002Z

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

Its that time of the year when 'diets ' seem to be the main topic of every conversation! I'm guilty!

I think a new year and a new start is just what I need.

A new start to dieting.. finishing projects (that seem to have been hanging around for forever) and looking forward to whatever is ahead in 2011.

So heres to 2011...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Another lovely giveaway

2010-12-30T09:37:00.001Z

This blog is fast becoming a giveaway list! But, sure its great fun!

Check out this lovely magazine..

Its the first issue of Leanne Beasley's wonderful new magazine. Looks like there could be some wonderful Spring projects in there.

Here's what happened...

2010-12-28T17:56:00.006Z

Super giveaway going on over at p.s. i quilt

Dear Santa,
I'm upset. My present didn't arrive, I had asked for some Parisville fabric by Tula Pink. I think it must be hiding under the seat on your sleigh-could you check please?
love Karen

Dear Karen,
I've checked under my seat but no luck...Maybe the elves couldn't find it, by the way were you a good girl this year?
love Santa

Dear Santa,
I was a good girl this year... maybe you could send me some dottie fabric by RJR instead?
love Karen

Dear Karen,
I'll get Mrs Claus to parcel it up as soon as she finishes sewing my new quilt! ho ho ho!
love Santa.

Dear Santa,
Do you think that possibly, Mrs Claus may have, by any chance taken....couldn't resist....
no no forget I asked.
Love you Santa!
Love Karen xo

Mr Postman

2010-12-21T16:42:00.004Z

Even though we have had a lot of snow, it didn't stop our postman from getting through to-day, and I am so glad he did!

Two parcels for me!

Firstly, there was a lovely parcel from Kate Spain - I won a

'Stocking Stuffer' from a recent giveaway on her blog..

Some amazing 'Fandango' flannel (gonna have to get me some more of that!), some 'Central Park' squares and a surprise package beautifully wrapped, which I don't/do want to open!

The second parcel was a quilt returned to me from Yvonne McKee - beautifully long arm quilted!

You'll have to wait to see this one on the Moda Bake Shop!

Oh no more snow

2010-12-20T18:45:00.001Z

It went away..and then it came back,

Snowed in - perfect weather for sewing.

Sparkly trees

2010-12-16T10:08:00.009Z

I hate throwing things out, I always think that maybe it could be useful someday. Upcycled, recycled whatever. Our attic is bursting with 'you never know when it could be useful' items. I always remove buttons and zips from clothing that is being thrown out, they may have a use....sometime. I have quite a collection of old zips, all sizes and colours. Buttons aswell.

So when I imagined my sparkly trees, I though of my shiny buttons.

I made some more Christmas Trees... sparkly frosted ones this time!

Here's how I made them.

I had bought a picture in a local charity shop, I loved the picture, hated the frame. So it was removed and replaced with a shiny new one.

I painted the old frame and gave it a distressed look, I really wanted a crackle glaze finish, but ended up with this instead. Measure the inside of the frame and add 1/2" all round. Using this as a guide, piece together some scraps of cream and white fabrics - snowflakes, plain old calico - anything goes. Place a slightly larger piece of firm wadding behind the fabric.

Free machine some wavy curls on the fabric and wadding. Using a water soluble pen, draw the outline of some trianglular trees, this gives a quideline when sewing on the buttons.

Sew on the buttons.

I tried to use a variety of sizes and different shades of white and cream.

Then, when you have completed the buttons, applique on some tree trunks.

I used some scraps of dark brown tweed, just to add some more texture.

Using the back of the picture frame as a guide,

trim your fabric to fit inside the frame.

Carefully place the fabric inside the frame so there are no raw edges showing and secure back in place.

Now sit back and enjoy your recycled work of art!

Christmas Tree Winners

2010-12-13T14:50:00.005Z

Thank-you to everyone who entered the Christmas Tree giveaway, I love reading all the comments and hearing about patchwork and quilting projects.
Anyway without further ado..here are the winners:

Jodi who said"Right now I'm working on a quilt for my son, but I love making and gifting table toppers/runners"

Jenn who said"My favourite decorations are lights. I've got dozens and dozens of lights on my trees and around my house"

and

Gill who said "My favourite decorations are those handmade - mostly by my children"

Congratulations!
Please email me your addresses and I will race down to the
Post Office faster than Rudoplh!!

To-night I am going Carol singing with the Girl Guides - I am only a helper but am really looking forward to it!

O Christmas Tree

2010-12-07T16:16:00.001Z

It has snowed again!

Ok, so I know its winter... but you have got to understand that normally in Northern Ireland we do get a little snow, just not this much.

It makes everything look beautiful, but driving is a problem!

Last weekend I got all the Christmas decorations out of the attic and gave the house a bit of a makeover. Kinda forgot I had so many Snowmen..
and angels!
Anyway they are all now in place and even my fabric Christmas trees have found a little spot!

Would you like to make your own Christmas Trees?

The pattern is available from my online shop. Or enter my giveaway for a chance to win a pattern (I'm giving away 3) and some beautiful Christmas fabric to make your own!

You can enter by:

1. Telling me what your favourite decorations are!

2. Become a follower of my blog, or tell me if you already are.

3.Blog about this giveaway and come back and tell me you did.

Giveaway is open until Sunday 12th December 10pm GMT.

Sneaky Peaky

2010-11-29T20:29:00.003Z

A little sneaky peak at what I've been sewing...

A little Moda brightens up my day!

Snowy Sunday

2010-11-28T17:54:00.004Z

Arctic air over Northern Ireland has given us this......

Christmas Table Runner

2010-11-21T17:38:00.005Z

The new issue of Irish Quilting is out and packed full of beautiful seasonal projects.

Look out for my Christmas Table Runner made with lovely Makower Uk Christmas fabrics.

The magazine as always has some fantastic photos, I'm afraid my poor photography skills do not do it justice here!

Christmas is fast approaching and the weeks are becoming more and more hectic. I've come to the conclusion that this is the norm for us - life is so fast, one week flows into the next. And isn't everyone in the same boat? Maybe I could slow this week down, anyone know where the brake is??

Loving this giveaway..

2010-11-14T17:59:00.005Z

Just a quick note to share this giveaway at retromummy with you, check out the beautiful fabrics from the Australian designer Rosalie Quinlan...

Anybody want to share any more giveaways this week?

Oh, just remembered about another giveaway going on over at comfortstitching more beeeeautiful fabrics! Check out the pips!!

Giveaway winner

2010-11-11T11:15:00.006Z

I am busy getting ready for some local Craft Fairs, I have just finished writing up a new pattern for 'Hotch Potch Patch Bag'! Its a long name, but its just what it says it is, a hotch potch of different fabrics! I used various curtain and soft furnishing fabrics aswell as tweeds and checks.

I added a satin bow on the handle and even some flowers made from zips and buttons - recycled zips seem to be a popular fashion accessory at the minute!

This pattern is available from my website http://www.lisnawearyquilts.co.uk/

Anyway, more importantly the winner of the Irish linen giveaway is.............

Heavensent1 who said "Whenever I think of Ireland I think of my dude...he's an O'Connor..."

Congratulations....please email me your address and I'll ship it to you asap!

Bloggers Quilt Festival

2010-10-29T14:12:00.008+01:00

I am just amazed at the fantastic idea of a Bloggers Quilt Festival, and thanks to Amy at Amy's Creative Side everyone can take part:)

I want to share my 'Hippy Quilt' which I made in 2009, as part of a Patchwork and Quilting course I was doing at the time.

I had thought of making a quilt from old denims, but thought it would be too heavy. So I decide to use really bright fabrics and appliqued on some denim symbols that I associate with the 1960s:)

There are a wide variety of fabrics in this quilt even some I hand dyed in class. So this quilt always brings back memories of the course and new people I met:)Thanks for taking a look!

The key to my heart...and a giveaway!

2010-10-26T14:58:00.014+01:00

I recently got my hands on some beautiful Irish linen, lovely shades of grey and blue.

In between sneezing and coughing this past week I have been gradually putting a wall hanging together!

I thought the 100% linen would have been a bit stretchy, but a quick spray of startch made it very easy to work with:)I made this wall hanging,

anyone else feel the same way? :D

Here is a quick tutorial for a super quick project;)

If using 100% linen fabric, use spray starch on the fabric before starting.

1. Cut out the background fabric 12 1/2" x 18"2.Trace the letters and heart lock on to Bondaweb, iron letters and heart lock on to different fabrics. Cut out carefully, and place on background fabric. Press in place.

3.Cut a piece of medium weight Vilene slightly bigger than the background and place underneath.

4. Applique the letters on to the background fabric using a small zig zag stitch. I used Invisafil thread which is quite fine and didn't overpower the letters.

5. Cut out the first border: 4 pieces 1" x 24"
Cut out the second border: 4 pieces 1 1/2" x 24"
Sew first border to second border, make 4 borders.

6. Sew on borders and mitre corners.

7. Press well. 8. Layer backing, wadding and top together, pin together.

9. Draw the heart shape out on cardboard and use this shape as a quilting template.

Place template randomly on the wall hanging and draw around it using a watersoluble pen. Quilt around the heart shapes.

10. Make binding 2 1/2" x 82". Attach binding and hand sew in place.

11. Make a sleeve for the back of the wallhanging and enjoy!

Finished size approx. 15 1/2" x 21"

Please email me if you would like a copy of the letters and heartlock shape to make this wall hanging. info@lisnawearyquilt.co.uk

There are a limited amount of "fabric is the key to my heart" wall hanging kits, which are £15.99 plus postage

(UK & Europe p&p £3.99. USA/Canada p&p £5.50).

available on my website www.lisnawearyquilts.co.uk

I have a wall hanging kit of "Fabric is the key to my heart" in exactly the same Irish linen to giveaway:)

Here's how to enter - please leave a comment for each entry.

1. Tell me what you think of, when someone mentions Ireland or Irish Linen!

2. Sign up to be a follower on Lisnaweary Quilts blog.

3. Hop over to http://www.lisnawearyquilts.co.uk/ and tell me your favourite pattern/fabric.

4. Blog about this blog, giveaway etc.

You have til 10pm Tuesday 9th November to enter.

Santa's Gifts

2010-10-18T13:59:00.007+01:00

Oh I love Christmas! I know its not even Halloween yet, but I seem to have been keeping this quilt under cover for ages! Here is Santa's Gifts..It is featured in this months Fabrications magazine:)Quilt kits are available from my website

www.lisnawearyquilts.co.uk
Be sure to check back here this week for a special giveaway:D

House quilt

2010-10-15T14:46:00.006+01:00

I have done a bit of sewing since I last blogged.

I had bought a lovely panel at the Cotton Shed,

so I decided to cut up the panel and added a few little

extra bits to make it slightly bigger.

As it was such a lovely morning today, I went outside to take a few photos of my quilt top.

I didn't think it was that windy:)

So I grabbed a few clothespegs off the washing line I love the colours in this panel, my daughter loves it too. She has claimed it as hers;)

The fabrics are from a company called XPS fabrics and me-o-my Designs.

Back to sewing..

2010-10-06T08:18:00.004+01:00

I visited my local fabric shop The Cotton Shed recently, and found this beautiful panel. The fabric just called out and said "buy me! buy me!"

I find a lot of fabrics do that, anybody else hear the fabric talking?
So I obliged and brought my new friends home...

I started planning last night, I'll let you know how I get on.

Go Graeme and Rory!

2010-10-05T11:18:00.005+01:00

I have to admit that I am not a big fan of golf, I watch it occassionally. But yesterday must have been one of the best moments in the history of Northern Ireland golf, when the Europeans won the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in Wales! No less than 2 of the European players were from Northern Ireland - Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy, aswell as the vice captain Darren Clarke. With Graeme McDowell sealing the victory in the final round,

it must have been all the rain that made them feel so much at home!

Moda Bake Shop

2010-09-27T14:43:00.002+01:00

I am so excited to bring you my first Moda Bake Shop tutorial:)

I made it using 'A Morris Tapestry' by Barbara Brackman for Moda.

A cover for a desk chair.
my daughter's school bag just happened to coordinate with the beautiful fabrics!
It kinda brightens up an otherwise very plain chair!

Here's another cover I made using Hunky Dory by Chez Moi for Moda.
Bright and breezy

Thanks Moda, and thanks to you for looking!

Giveaway Winner

2010-09-24T08:02:00.004+01:00

This week I travelled to Ballyjamesduff in Co.Cavan, to the Lakeland Quilt Fair, to take part in a one day workshop with Gloria Loughman. It was great - her work is amazing!

I did take photos, but unfortunately eldest daughter

accidentally deleted them from the camera :(

Thanks to everyone who took the time to enter the giveaway.

And the winner is...No. 17 Pam.

Congratulations!

Please email me your details.

Crimson Burst Quilt and Giveaway!

2010-09-16T17:40:00.017+01:00

Just wanted to share the new issue of British Patchwork and Quilting with you:)

I am delighted to have a quilt featured in the October 2010 issue:D

It's called 'Crimson Burst'

Its made using the Katie Hana fabric collection from Makower UK.

Quilt kits are available to buy on my website www.lisnawearyquilts.co.uk

So just as a little celebration,
I'm giving away 4 1/4yd pieces of Katie Hana fabric:)

All you have to do is:

1. Leave a comment - anything at all - what would you make? something autumnal?

2. Click to follow my blog and come back and tell me, or tell me if you're already following!

3. Blog about this giveaway and then come back and tell me that you did.

4. Check out my new website and then come back and tell me that you did.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

Go straight to jail....

2010-09-15T10:59:00.007+01:00

On Sunday we visited the old jail in Armagh city. It has been closed since 1986, but Saturday and Sunday were European Heritage Open Days, when some buildings which are not normally open to the public can be viewed. The jail sits at one end of the Mall in Armagh city.

(The courthouse sits at the other end!)

The original jail was built in 1780.

Pretty small cell?

Next we visited the home of the man who was responsible for building the jail and many other public buildings in Armagh, Archbishop Robinson. He had this grand house built on a 300 acre site 1768-70.

And of course being an Archbishop he needed his own private Church beside his house!

...and maybe a few modest paintings for the entrance hall!

Autumn is on the doorstep!

2010-09-11T13:45:00.007+01:00

We... no I'll correct that, I have been busy recently harvesting plums! We only have two plum trees, but what a crop of victoria plums. I have made jam, chutney, compote and frozen the rest. As the jam was bubbling, I was able to sew:)

I have also made several desserts which were delicious!

And now the apples are nearly ready, sadly they do not fruit in the same abundance as the plums.

But enough to make several apple tarts.

I spotted this fungi the other day, thought it was great! I don't think I've ever seen one as tall as this before. Another sign that autumn is nearly here...

Another fun guy turned up the other night!:) This guy has been around our house for quite a few years. He disappears for months on end and then comes back to party late at night!

(Sorry photo isn't great) Harry the hedgehog (as he is now known!) is normally found in the field or garden by our dog, who barks incessively at him until we go and have a look.
Finally here is a picture of what I was sewing while my jam was cooking -

I thought I deserved a new handbag after all that hard work;)

Basket Liner Tutorial

2010-09-06T15:56:00.000+01:00

Here is my first ever tutorial, hopefully only the first of many! I have not given any fabric requirements for this, which I know is a bit odd, but every basket will be a different size and require different amounts of fabric. It would be best to make the template for the basket first and then from that you can measure exactly how much fabric is needed. I used Whimsy by Fig Tree & Co from Moda. Please read the tutorial before purchasing fabric!

1. Take the covers off some old magazines and line the basket with them in the shape you want your basket liner to be, I even used some remnants of wallpaper, as it is strong enough to make a good template. As you place the pieces of paper in the basket stick them together with cellotape and you will end up with a template, from which you can cut out your fabric.
2. Place the template on top of the fabric.
3. Using a ruler and water soluble pen, mark a 1/4" seam allowance all the way around the outside of the template.

4. Using the pen mark as a guide, cut out the main part of the basket liner.

5. Layer a piece of calico, wadding then the basket liner, and baste together.

6. Quilt the basket liner, I stitched in straight lines and followed the rows of writing on the fabric.

7. Take a few maore magazine covers and make some templates for the pockets. I had two different sizes - one to fit on the inside of the basket and a smaller one for the outside.

8. From the pocket templates, cut out 4 smaller size and 2 larger size from the fabric and from calico.

9. Place a pocket piece and a matching piece of calico right sides together.

10. Sew around outside using 1/4" seam, leaving a gap to turn the pocket right side out. Clip corners.

11. Turn pocket right side out and sew up gap.

12. Repeat for remaining pockets.

13. Place pockets on the basket liner and sew in place.

14. Trim off excess wadding and calico.

15. Make ties for around handles, by cutting out 4 strips of fabric 21/2" x 9". Fold ends in 1/4", then fold in long sides to meet in middle. Fold in half lengthwise to hid all raw edges, and sew along edges to secure in place.

16. Attach ties at opposite sides where the basket liner goes around the handles.

17. Make binding from 21/2" strips and attach.

Use for a picnic, carrying sewing equipment or storing all sorts of nik naks!

Basket Liner

2010-08-23T16:24:00.003+01:00

Back from Birmingham, really exhausted, but had a great time!

The show was fantastic, so many patchwork shops and all in one place!

The exhibition of quilts were amazing!

I managed to get back to sewing today and finished this project:)

I bought this basket in TK Maxx

I loved the shape and colour, but thought it needed a little something...

maybe some beautiful Whimsy from Fig Tree & Co by Moda..

and...

voila!

I'll show you how I made the liner later this week.

Lovely surprise

2010-08-19T16:36:00.003+01:00

Most days my postman brings bills, somedays he brings surprises!

Some Dutch fabric, so cute!

Thanks Birgitte!

Birmingham FOQ

2010-08-18T09:26:00.007+01:00

The summer holidays have flew past and with all the school uniforms sorted, the countdown is on for back to school:)

This week I am going to Birmingham to the Festival of Quilts, I can't wait!

Taking my camera, so watch out for photos next week!

Jump over to Jaybird's blog for a major giveaway from the Fat Quarter Shop.

The new issue of Irish Quilting arrived yesterday, and all i can say is WOW!

Ok, i my be a little biased, look out for my Christmas Card pattern!

But what a fantastic selection of quilts, I especially loved the Tulip quilt by Terri and also the fantastic Santa's Sleigh quilt.
Plenty of reading material for the flight to Birmingham!

International Quilt Festival of Ireland 2012

2010-08-13T11:51:00.010+01:00

I having been sewing a lot this week, then the time came when I had to do some work on the computer. Just when I feel I have mastered the copy/paste thingy...the whole thing disappears!!

Give me back my sewing machine, please!

Anyway, I was cheered up completely and very excited when I read Jim West's blog...

He has announced the International Quilt Festival of Ireland for 2012!

Yahoooooooo!

The official website will be up and running in September

Roll on 2012.....Ever longed to visit Ireland??

As summer flies by...

2010-08-06T21:16:00.011+01:00

Last week we went to our local agricultural show in the Clogher Valley.

A real highlight in our farming calendar!

Not to be deterred by rain showers, we spent the day out and about....

In the craft and home industries marquee.....

Best dressed scarecrow...

I was convinced that this week that I would get lots of sewing done. Not a chance!

With the kids off school, why did I ever think I would?

(btw Toy Story 3 is fantastic!)

As the weeks fly by, my 'to do' list grows longer... and longer....

Then today the postman brought a parcel, which gave me an

added incentive to get back on track ;)

A beautiful layer cake of 'A Morris Tapestry' by Barbara Brackman and Moda

Nothing will get between me and my sewing machine next week!:D