The Pattern Place Blog

2011-06-13T22:58:00.009-06:00

Time to dust off The Pattern Place blog, jeepers its been a while. So in hopes of not completely losing my mind I made the painful decision to suspend most if not all of my quilting business. I closed my on-line pattern store, stopped designing patterns and writing this blog, hardest of all, I stopped quilting entirely. It tooks months to transition from Canada to the United Arab Emirates and Dubai, not sure we will completely finish that process. Life has returned to some kind of normal, just long enough for me to prepare for more change. Baby three and our first son should arrive late July or early Aug and with delivery scheduled for Canada we are off for quite the summer. I have a wonderful studio space and plans to use it even after our little man arrives, we will see. Although I have not been devoting time to The Pattern Place, the quilter inside never stops. Here are a few pics from around the Gulf Coast.

The Dubai sky line is impressive and might have to make it into a new design one day.

The girls in their tent, the floor is a delightful fleece and flannel 'comfy'. Great for watching tv and a last minute addition to the suitcases, thank goodness. At home we would have used a quilt for the floor and a 'comfy' for the tent but here, in our hotel suite, you make do :)

Global Village can be seen from our back yard and yet it took us until two days before it closed for the season to make our first visit, good thing we had so much fun shopping. The buildings, the people and the 'its not like this back home' are among my greatest inspirations.

A local mall offers some amazing sites. The colors and shapes, the contrast of old and new - I could go on and on. Its a wonder for the senses. Time is required and I don't have all that much right now, but slowly and in the years to come .....

Happy Quilting

Quilting in Dubai

2010-10-24T12:44:00.008-06:00

Tuesday will be our four week anniversary as residents of Dubai. It has been very fun to carefully get to know this crazy city. We are getting slightly settled, sort of. I made a step toward getting back to 'normal' today, what ever that is of course.

I attended my first Dubai Quilt Guild meetings this morning. They are held at the Arabian Ranches golf course, very nice. It was a great opportunity to meet some fellow quilters and enjoy a good dose of quilting. The quilting styles and projects displayed or discussed were as varied as those attending, which was rather interesting. It has been over four years since I was last a member of a quilt guild and I had forgot about some really great perks. I checked out a great block and pattern book/magazine. I am excited as it saves me from trying to order one online. I couldn't find the magazine from this spring/summer I was looking for but I had fun looking. I did a little more looking at some fabric from the local quilt stores, went through four mini seminars for Christmas decoration ideas and enjoyed wonderful refeshments. It was very lovely . I should have worked on my English and Australian accent before coming though, I can't understand a thing when they get talking fast.

The morning went by quickly and soon it was time to go but I managed a few, quick pictures of those at my table and the guild president conducting the meeting. I am quite excited to contribute and bring my quilts for 'show and tell'. I also can't wait for a new machine and a house, excuse me, villa to house my studio. All things required to really take part.

I am also itching to get back designing. There are so many patterns running through my head it is a challenge to fall sleep some nights. That could also be from the rattling fan in our bedroom but turning off the air conditioning isn't an option, we tried that.

Off to sleep, another busy day planned for tomorrow. We are hopeful for an agreement for a villa we have been searching for and finally found tonight. We know as we seek the Lord's council He will guide and direct us, night all and Happy Quilting

Quilting on Hold

2010-09-26T00:22:00.004-06:00

Wow things have been busy, not normal busy but busy none the less. With a husband in oil and gas anything is possible. So off we go, we have had some notice but in the end it was not much more than a week from simple home life to everything sorted, packed, shipped or stored. Sign up in front of the house and yep we've moved, crazy. What's more crazy, our destination - Dubai

Photo taken on our pre-assignment visit in April/May 2010 in Dubai

We are excited and a little bit aprehensive as we begin this journey. Life is great, we feel regret for leaving our friends and family and yet feel so encouraged by shuch a rare opportunity. I will post pictures here of my quilting adventures from the Arabain Gulf but for now my quilting is on hold. I am sure after a little time my new surroundings will bring some new machine applique patterns. Due check back as I am getting a new sewing machine out of the deal ;)

Happy Quilting

I finished a UFO!!

2010-08-29T12:12:00.004-06:00

Some times it is just time to get to those unfinished objects!! This week has been that time for me, the quilt pattern was Sapphire Stars from EZ Quilting, I had purchased the easy eight acrylic ruler and wanted a project to try it out. Well I got right into it, bought some fabric and sat down to make a star quilt and wham the project got the better of me and into the projects to be finished later pile it went. I was a new quilter and never a sewer before that so I think I lacked the sewing skills to set the corners successfully and I set out to make a bed sized quilt - ROOKIE. Well I was going through that 'to be finished later' pile, now housed in a bin in the closet and there it was. I do believe I started the quilt 8 years ago, or more, so now with a little time sat at my machine I was determined to finish it. No problem. First thing, scale back the project. My bed size has turned it self into lap size and should be a special friend to either my two or almost four year old, or both. They love the bright colors and I love that it is finished!! Out of a bin and into the washer last night and ready to be loved this morning, Happy Quilting

Free Applique Quilt Patterns on the Move

2010-08-08T21:59:00.003-06:00

A short message to let everyone know that the previously download free patterns from The Pattern Place website are now just a click away in the free patterns section of our blog. We are very excited for some pretty big changes here at The Pattern Place. I am going to stream line our online shopping and offer only our best and complete machine applique quilting patterns. The size of quilts will vary from small wall quilts to some major applique bed quilt projects. So excited, so much time required to finish all my plans. This full time quilter, website designer and oh ya mom and wife thing keeps me busy, but I love it and would not change it for the world. The never ending promise of Princess Patricia's pattern being available soon... took a step closer and here's the proof.

I took a few pictures of it bound, still needs embroidery and the pattern writing to finish itself :) Don't hold my breath.
Happy Quilting

A little piecing for practice

2010-07-22T14:29:00.008-06:00

It's been a while since I followed a pattern and made a pieced top so I thought I would give it a try, just to see if I remember how to do it. It's turned out pretty good, had to change the block layout but that's how it goes. I am liking the disappearing nine block and how fast and easy it was

to get a scrappy 30" x 40" pieced top together. The fabrics are a layer cake with some extra squares from the border and binding fabrics that I had. I like the rich, bright color pallet. Now for some borders and you guessed it APPLIQUES!! I have a flower idea, with some small bias vines and a bee hive or bird feeder ideas - I feel a new pattern coming on :)

I had the chance to visit a friend yesterday and take a few pictures of her finished table runner. It is a Scrappy Irish Chain project, adapted with applique. It is a beautiful pattern and is so much easier that a completely pieced, more traditional block. We started it a a while back now but it is done, a first quilting project. I think it looks lovely and suits her table very well. Such great color choices as well. She even enjoyed the hand stitching to secure the binding. Overall a quilting success, congratulations!

My girls and I had some fun in the front yard yesterday, the lighting was magical and the girls are cute even in the dark, no bias I am just their mom.

Happy Quilting.

Home is... applique wall hanging

2010-07-20T21:59:00.005-06:00

It took most of the day and a few cartoons for the kiddies but I managed to get a new pattern on The Pattern Place web site today. Home is... happiness and harmony is ready for download along with the first of many mini quilts, Happy Birthday. I am excited to see this idea now in real life, touchable and hanging in the living room of our home. Check out our Facebook page for a photo of the next mini, Gulf Beach. Here is a photo from our trip with which the pattern is based, so pretty.

I was soo tempted to add the palms trees, I just kept thinking "less is more, less is more" anyways. It is next on deck, just need to finish the pattern. I have had quilter's block and I am spending more time at my computer than in front of the sewing machine, it's not that bad I guess. I will try to get it up in the next few days, or nights ;)

So in the never ending Princess Patricia, the binding is on and just needs a few more hours of hand stitching, and on and on.

Opened a great package from my new favorite applique pattern designer, eat cake graphics. Love them so much I ordered two. They are brilliant. More about that later. Bed time, Happy Quilting.

Applique Quilting with out any Fabric

2010-07-11T02:27:00.008-06:00

There are some really cool things out there in the world wide web and I have had some fun applique quilting with out any fabric tonight.
I have mentioned a few times my love for all things applique, so I will attempt to control my enthusiasm. I really like applique quilting. I could look at pictures of quilts for hours, search for new patterns for days and hide myself away in my studio for weeks or months. So tonight I had a bunch of fun adding me to the Connecting Threads on-line community.

Its fun idea and I am so excited to find an applique techniques group. I am a girl who likes to know what she is doing, so an applique tutorial sounds good to me. Plus you never know what you might learn. ~I have thought of writing about all the mistakes I have made, complete confessions of rookie quilter and not so rookie, unfortunately. I have included a few here in the Quilting Steps section of our website, The Pattern Place. Most just roll around in my head, bringing a smile to my face every time I remember them. ~ Then there are those that make my blood pressure rise or a few not so nice words ... lets just say I am not always smiling. Either way it is a learning experience and I love to learn and quilt! And sleep.
So yes its late, or early if you were up talking to your hubby whilst (He picks up accents so easy.) in jolly old England - dang business trips. Anyways, it's late and I am finally sleepy. Happy Quilting

Late Night Applique Quilting

2010-06-30T00:01:00.009-06:00

Well I made the attempt not to write here after midnight for everyone's sake, but apparently I can't make the time to sit down at my computer much before then so sorry all,
wish me luck ;)

Things are busy as normal around here but progress is made in small steps. I am running solo right now and wish single parenthood on no one, its tough. I am getting some quilting house keeping done, that's quilting house keeping, don't worry no real house keeping yet this week. The flash slide show for The Pattern Place website project is now complete, yikes that took a while. The photos need a little tweak and maybe an update or two but for now I am enjoying their beauty. They evenly and continuously run one into another and I didn't shell out a dime for the software, love it. Check out the last photo for a link or here for the free download. It is a great program and worked quite well, tons of layouts to choose from.

I spent some time today on a WIP, its actually from my mom but I told her I would bind it. It is a cute lamb and rabbit, each in their own wall hanging. So Springy, I can't wait to hang them up next year. I must get the princess trimmed and bound, avoiding such a big job is not a good idea. My excuse, it's hot and I only cut such big quilts on my tiled kitchen floor after giving my carpet a haircut last time. Too hot to take a big quilt upstairs and literally sweat over it, is that the sound of a violin? Right so tomorrow morning, before it gets too hot ... while the girls are eating breakfast, liking that idea. Off to bed or maybe a little tv and a more binding, night.

Your thoughts, questions or suggestions.
I love to hear from you.
Happy Quilting

Applique Quilting Shopping

2010-06-23T00:16:00.005-06:00

So I love applique, it is really a sickness. Love it. I think about patterns and projects day and night. So today was, lets say, a prep day - ya that's right, a prep day. Shopping is honestly one of my children favorite things to do, within reason, of course. Apparently we may have pushed the limits today but boy we had fun. I found a quilting magazine, McCall's How to Quilt it!, from the year I was born, it is in great shape for its 32 years of existence. The coolest thing, not a single ad. Just page after page of the greatest quilting 1978 had to offer. Sew fun, pun intended.
Bought some fabric for blankets for my girls today, just regular flannel and some great textured fleece stuff, all I know is it isn't cotton :) I am very excited to get it sewn together, gotta love the quick projects. I must get Princess Patricia bound tomorrow, or Thursday most likely. Busy times around our house. We are scheduling into July, even August for some things. Must get a ballet recital and a 2nd birthday in there too, oh and ya dad is on a business trip. Maybe while he is gone I can get some sewing done? Who knows, must sleep... Happy Quilting.

Princess Patricia gets her Quilting.

2010-06-07T13:08:00.005-06:00

The quilt frame is set to queen size, her highness is loaded, I even have five bobbins full of thread so I can easily swap out the empties. Deep breath, shoulders down - here we go....

Forgive me a little rant :)
I love machine quilting, it is an art with a little science. I find the right technique is a groove for which it takes a few minutes to find and stay in but once that happens, all is good. My machine quilting skills are perishable, I loose more than I like in between quilts. Now, if you think the way I do, then all I need to do is quilt more quilts!Then I wish I could step away from the frame once it is ready to go and, you know, sleep. Its a personality flaw I suppose, but all I want to do is the thing I am ready to do. Oh life is rough - I love quilting! Whew got that out of my system.

So the quilting is going well, I am quite proud of myself that I remembered to take a few pictures, enjoy.
Princess Patricia is a machine applique original design from The Pattern Place. The pattern will be available for purchase and download from our on-line store once I have the example quilt finished and photographed. There are just a few more details to finish up; trim the batting and backing, bind and add the label. The whole quilt should be finished in about a week. I look forward to posting pictures and adding the pattern to the website.

I love your comments and thoughts. It makes my day to see someone has commented on my blog so don't be shy, say Hi! Happy Quilting

Late Night Quilting

2010-06-01T00:17:00.003-06:00

It's late, I am tired. I should go to bed but I have a quilt almost loaded. Extending my Grace frame to queen size today wasn't that bad, with my Mom's help :) I am so excited to have our 'princess' quilt nearly finished that I must get it on the frame and ready to quilt tomorrow, or today, depending on how you look at it. I promise to take pictures and post a real post, not like these midnight rambles.
Happy sleeping or quilting, you choose ;)

Jet Lag and Applique Quilts

2010-05-20T23:49:00.006-06:00

As a newbie to trans Atlantic trips that jet lag thing hit me like a ton of bricks. Whew, glad that's over. My girls and I are getting our grove back and things are looking like the beginning of summer in our corner of the planet. We are looking forward to a good and safe long weekend at home with a to-do list as long as your arm.

So my machine was so over due for a service it was sad really, so she is off for a spa day and should be back soon, good as new. For now I am toying with a Dresden plate, English paper pieced and I found some mylar templates that worked quite nice for my first attempt. I love the hand sewn projects but time, boy they take time.

I found a wonderful charity quilt pattern that I simply must try it looks so good. Then I did a little digging and it is a disappearing nine patch block pattern. Then I went looking for layout ideas, the sky is the limit but that was a favorite. So I am off to bed with dreams of tomorrow and a great day with my ladies in the studio and a disappearing nine block top to show for it.

Happy Quilting

Applique Quilting in Dubai

2010-05-03T10:41:00.005-06:00

Life has a way of bringing you to places you don't know you need.

Today was a good day, we have been in a beautiful and foreign city for over a week now, so many of the last days have been good, but today was particularly good.
What on earth am I doing in Dubai? You are not the first to ask and I have asked myself that question so many times I have lost tract. Well a husband in Oil and Gas and an opportunity we had to fully investigate equals two weeks in the United Arab Emirates. We will see what the future holds for us but for now here we are, the best news - quilting is here too.
I had the absolute pleasure to meet and talk quilts with my new friend, Mala Ramakrishnan today. She, her husband and a growing group of support personnel work to promote and develop a lively quilting community within the Middle East. Classic Quilts & Quilting now has two locations in Dubai, as I learned today.
I was nearly panting I was so hot as I entered Mala's store, this heat has me worried for the summer weather yet to come. She was so accommodating and offered me a chair and a glass of water, its seriously that hot - only 35° I guess today but 41° yesterday. We talked machine applique quilts an quilting and I loved every minute. I drooled over the long arm loaded with a customer's quilt and got even more excited to learn of two guilds in the region, one here in Dubai and another in Abu Dhabi (about an hour away) The bank road store is primarily dedicated to the quilting side of their business and I look forward to visiting the beach road location with excitement second only to seeing my beautiful children in a few days. As the Bernina retailer for the region, I am also looking forward to a new sewing machine when that time comes. I was so excited to touch the fabric and enjoyed a wonderful few minutes of comfort in a wonderfully strange place. I left with a few new fat quarters and all the basics for a small project for my last couple of days by the pool. I am so thankful for a hobby that brings real people from real corners of the world together, it was truly a good day. I think I will make it two in a row and navigate myself to Jumeria and see what the other store has to offer. I will take some pictures and let you know the results. Miss you girls, Happy Quilting

Princess Appliques

2010-04-13T18:39:00.003-06:00

Well we are in full princess mode and loving it. Her highness, our three year old regularly consults and is approving. We have the main top machine stitched and assembled, inner borders are on and outer borders are cut. The biased cut vine is pinned in place and today has been flower central. We chose an 'old friend' and added a new twist for the flowers. The Lazy Daisy applique pattern makes it's return and now has a really great flower bud applique to go with it. Can't wait to show pictures of the finished machine appliqued quilt top. For now take a peak at The Pattern Place facebook page for more photos. SO much fun, hubby is home with dinner, got to go :) Happy Quilting

Here comes Spring

2010-04-06T12:59:00.017-06:00

Well the weather is definitely changing, soon green grass and trips to the lake. We have weathered this winter quite well, my girls love to play in our play room and I love to watch them from my sewing room. All we need to do now is add french doors to the rough opening, right hunny? Not sure he reads this but it's worth a try, right?

It has been a productive last few months for us here at The Pattern Place. My first magazine publication, Take Good Care was published in the Spring issue of Qu ilter's Connection Magazine.

The theme of the magazine was, green. I wrestled with so many ideas and finally this applique pictorial came through. I am quite proud if the detail and symbolism. The hardest part was scaling my design back to fit inside the magazine. I hope readers enjoy and that someone is inspired to create this entire project or add some parts to their own project design. I am looking forward to future publication projects, it is so fun to see your name in print. :)

Farmyard Friends machine applique pattern is now finished and available for download from The Pattern Place Online Store. Here is the completed 45" x 45" quilt.

In a few weeks our Princess Patricia machine applique quilt pattern will be ready. My 3 year old is especially excited about this new pattern. She comes into the sewing room and asks "how is my princess coming" Just fine is my answer, so cute. I am fighting the urge to go princess crazy and develop more and more projects. I might have to earnestly think about that one, appliqued pillow sham or covers, a couple of different princess quilts and of course a princess doll! The sky is the limit. I am told several times a day that I "forgot the dragon on this one MOM" so sassy but maybe so right? Who knows, if only there were 36 hours in each day?

We are truly blessed and look forward to the next few months, who knows what will come through my sewing machine. Happy Quilting

The Pattern Place has a new look

2010-03-13T11:42:00.018-07:00

Well, with some toil and a little struggle the renovations to
The Pattern Place web presence are complete, mostly. We are still working a few little bugs out - so if you see any please let me know :) I am now re-focused and excited about new patterns and maybe some new pattern example projects, we will have to see.
I have been invited to join a wonderful quilting group and I am absolutely loving it. It is a real joy to be with other quilters and breathe in their energy and creativity. Thank you ladies, I look forward to the next few months and some great afternoons.
My three year old and I decided that we need a St. Patrick's Day decoration for our house. Love that. So, if the day goes as planned she and I will have a shamrock banner to show for our efforts. So fun. No pictures yet but maybe tomorrow?
Happy Quilting

We had such a great day making our shamrock banner, follow the link to see a picture of it nearly finished. We added and green 3" border and tried a new to me binding/backing technique. It all worked out quite well. Love you big girl.

Thread Storage for Applique Quilting

2010-03-06T09:31:00.005-07:00

Ahh I love good gadgets, ones that keep me slightly organized are especially good. So my latest treasures are the Bobbin Mates from EZ quilting. Love them. I like to keep the bobbin and thread close together, just in case I need to know where they both are :) Some projects just have to have the same color in both the top and the bottom and so with these nifty little things I can still store my thread and keep their 'mate' at hand. I am patiently researching the perfect thread holder still but soon my collection will require its own storage solution. So much fun.

The sewing room received a good clean and sort, even purged a few things! So I had to take a picture -it won't look this way for long. New patterns are on their way from The Pattern Place and I am in the mood for a quilt just for me, crazy I know. We hope that Spring is in the air at your house like it is at ours, Happy Quilting.

Looking forward to March

2010-02-21T10:50:00.006-07:00

My how time flies, I can't believe it's almost March. I have been busy at the machine, the quilting frame and my computer - who needs to sleep ;) We at The Pattern Place are looking forward to our copy of the next issue of Quilter's Connection Magazine, a wonderful Canadian publication. The magazine is beautiful and worth the little bit of looking to get your copy.

Farmyard Friends is off the quilting frame and just needs binding and some final photos. We think it is our favorite so far but then we always think that about the newest pattern :) I was so thrilled and rewarded when my three year old saw the finished top for the first time. She ran over and said "Wow, it's beautiful." Strong words from the girliest girl I know. Then she started counting the animal appliques, too cool. I love making applique quilts and now with the influence of our children, our cousins and family friends - my designers brain won't turn off! Not the worst problem in the world just not the most sleep producing ;) Our princess design is complete and up on deck at the cutting table, then I have a great cat tale and butterfly applique project. It is the final touch to my sister's wedding quilt, I hope to have it done before their next anniversary. Their fourth anniversary but who's counting. Well time to get off the computer, get to that binding and settle in for some serious Olympic fun.
GO Canada GO

Farmyard Fun

2010-01-28T18:00:00.008-07:00

Well I just can't hold this one on anymore. It's not quite finished but almost. I am very pleased with how it is turning out. So here's a sneak peak at our newest pattern, Farmyard Friends. Six critters and all the things you need for a really great farm. Once our example project is completely finished look for the full project pattern on The Pattern Place website.

Things, like normal, are very busy around our house and life seems to be moving faster and faster. I am very thankful for my quilting outlet and the quiet pleasure it brings. I do wish there was 34 hours in a day and that my 1 yr old would have a long nap every afternoon though. I am very grateful for my children, they are wonderful and very patient with their mom.

My dreams are filled with my next project and Pattern Place design, so many ideas. I do have a three year old princess who needs and quilt, as I was informed just before Christmas. So I think I am headed into the land of fairytale castles, coaches and maybe a magic wand? Very fun indeed. Let me know your thoughts and suggestions for the 'must haves' of a princess quilt. Well someone has to make dinner around here, oh right that's my job!! Happy Quilting.

Happy December and Applique Ornaments

2009-12-01T16:23:00.008-07:00

Well, its here!! I am almost as excited for Christmas this year as my 3 year old is, almost. I am so looking forward to good friends, food and fun!! We are trying to be ready before the crush of crowds begin to lets say take away from your Christmas spirit, wish me luck as I wish the same for you!!

The studio has been a busy place lately and we are getting close to having our projects finished, on time even. This latest pattern more or less made itself, so nice when this happens. Gingerbread Family Applique Pattern is now up and ready for quick and easy download direct from our website, The Pattern Place.
I was inspired by a good friend and my box of ornament exchange ornaments to create this pattern. I love versatile designs, they literally lend themselves to sooooo many fun projects. Embellish these little guys, or girls to fit a specific theme or color. The sky is the limit.
Leave a comment, send me an email or visit us on Facebook and let me know your ideas, I have coupons that would make this a free download from the website for all those I hear from. A Christmas gift for this magical time of the year. Then when you have your project finished, send me a picture and we will post them to the website. I love show and tell and to give away more coupons. Happy Quilting.

More Grandmother's Flower Garden Fun

2009-11-25T20:14:00.007-07:00

The only thing I love more than applique quilting is teaching new quilters different applique techniques. I had a wonderful opportunity to teach a wonderful group of ladies an intro Grandmother's Flower Garden project. We appliqued a single flower to a simple quilt sandwich. One day I will put mine in the frame I have yet to stain, so many projects.

It is such a compliment to have someone send photos of their projects. Thanks Lisa for these great pictures and for being such a great mom to your children and bus kids.Quilting @ the Provincial Semi Finals, Yes this is my RED hair I wear it and CHEER LOUD!!!

Making Grandmothers flowers, out of my Grandmas old clothes.

Quilting on the bus. (not while I'm driving!!!!)

Showing off some of my flowers! I get 1 1/2 done a day, only do it on the bus,
or I wouldn't get anything done!!!!!!!!!

So I am thrilled to share my love for creating future treasures with those around me, I am so blessed. I am looking forward to the beginning of December and a girls trip to Las Vegas. A little shopping and little seeing the sites and a few quilt stores if I am lucky. I plan to bring along my own Grandmother's Flower Garden, this beautiful quilt is becoming quite the world traveler. Of course I will post pictures when I get home. Life is good, Happy Quilting

Fall Fun and Machine Quilting

2009-11-06T16:17:00.008-07:00

How the time flies, three weeks out of commission with a nasty cold makes a month go by faster, I guess. Our colds are just about gone and so here I am back at my computer.

We had two of the cutest trick-or-treaters, a Panda and a Skunk. Our oldest collected some candy this year, it was very entertaining and lots of fun.

Between the nose blowing and the apple juice I was able to get some projects finished. My Joy to the World by Nancy Halverson quilting group project is DONE, awaiting quilting and binding. I am very excited to see the other ladies complete their projects.

I was also able to complete the top of a special project, we'll talk about that later.

So now we have my quilting frame up and an old friend being worked on. I have a little rule about quilting a pieced top from the "archives" before quilting a new project. It helps to get as much practice as possible and to have some quilts to show for all my time spent at the machine. This is I think, the third quilt I ever made. It's a machine pieced drunkard's path, crazy for a newbie - I don't suggest it. I was inexperienced when selecting my fabrics so ya, not my favorite but a great tea party blanket for my girls.

I love to quilt my own quilts, its so much fun. I get overly frustrated at times but at the end of it all it's a great way to spend an afternoon.

The whole family has a cold

2009-10-24T10:11:00.002-06:00

Things have been a little sneezey, coughy and crazy around our house this week. Usually either mom or dad can stay out of the germy mix but not this time. We are going through the detailed disinfecting of our house and all hope to be better by next week! There are some great new opportunities and quilts to talk about and pictures to come, next week ;) For now I am off to blow my nose and wash, wash, wash my hands!!

Fall leaves and Quilting Fun

2009-10-02T23:33:00.002-06:00

TN Cowboy web
Originally uploaded by Darcy-thepatternplace

The leaves are turning and the air is crisp again. Its quite fun to notice the subtle beauty and not so subtle changes in our neighborhood. Crunchy sounds as you walk on the sidewalk, my little girl having a melt down because she can't wear shorts under her princess dress ;) aah, all the signs of fall.

Well here is a picture of the latest quilt, from genesis to binding and with lots of help from Grammy along the way. It was a gift to our Tennessee Cowboy, so, yep, that's it's new name. Here is Tennessee Cowboy.

Admittedly I spend a minute or two on line, a few groups here, a few more things there. In my travels I happen upon some really great web sites. My new favorite is a wonderful example of great quilting information, from beautiful panto patterns - to download, by the way :), to a very informative and interesting blog, with tips, techniques, tons of pictures and even video. A free pattern every now and again and I am sold. Take a look while on your internet travels.

Feel free to suggests some of your favorite quilting sites and or blogs, we would love to hear from you.
Happy Quilting

New Halloween Applique Banner

2009-09-15T03:55:00.004-06:00

Well it has been a very long time, but here is a new pattern from The Pattern Place. We love Halloween and this project makes a great addition to our holiday decorations, we hope for yours as well. The example is shown using wool and wool felt. The banner measures 9.5" wide by 32" tall. Each box is approximately 5" square. The appliques are sewn by hand with embroidery floss.

We welcome your feedback and comments.

Must sleep... :) Happy Quilting

Machine Quilting and Happy Birthday

2009-09-08T22:00:00.008-06:00

Well tomorrow is a busy day in our house. Our oldest daughter turns a great big, huge, 3 years old. She is a ray of sunshine and a storm of emotions as all toddlers/preschoolers should be, I thankfully cherish the days when that doesn't happen all at one time ;) Big kisses little girl.

I have had some very productive hours at my machine and more recently with my quilting frame and now have some personal projects finished and quilted. I love to see the 'to be quilted' pile shrinking and the 'just needs binding' pile growing. I must remember to take some pictures during this process, usually it's the middle of the night and or I am just so excited to get something done I simply forget. I will of course post some pictures of the finished product here and when I get the patterns up on The Pattern Place website.

Well in endless pursuit of all things quilting within the vastness of the internet I have come across a wonderful new magazine and quilt designer. Quilter's Connection is a new quarterly Canadian Quilting Publication that looks GREAT. I am still trying to track down my copy of the first issue but the website is very nice and complete. I knew I was in love when I saw the applique project on the front cover. It is a wonderful and sophisticated example of modern applique quilting and so I went on a search for more details. The designer is a fellow Canadian and stay at home mom, Laurraine Yuyama of Patchwork Pottery. Her designs are beautiful and so delicious. I am so encouraged and inspired by the direction quilting is taking here at home.

Very exciting, congratulations to all. I am determined to get my copy this week. Thank goodness for the internet, I wouldn't have known what fun I was missing out on otherwise ;) Happy Quilting

Storage and Organization for Embroidery Floss used to Applique.

2009-09-03T01:29:00.007-06:00

Well I am up late tonight but I am almost finished a great new Applique Halloween Banner. I am stitching the wool appliques with coordinating embroidery floss, so I pulled out my hand dandy storage totes. I love these little guys, they are so cute and make me smile. It was very easy and inexpensive to put all this together. The plastic containers, floss cards and pink winder cost less then $20.00. I begin by writing the DMC number on the card and then slip the wrappers off the skeins. Place the winder upright on the dividing walls of the container. Attach the cards to the winder, the floss to the card and start winding. When finished secure the floss to the card and most fun of all, place the wound card in color order, light to dark. I do enjoy putting the cards in color order, yes a little compulsion thing going on there but it's manageable ;) I keep the totes in a canvas bag with other cross stitch essentials in the cupboard under my cutting table. My three year old always gushes when I open the cupboard, "oh Mom can I play with your toys too" Yes this cupboard has "Mom's toys" in it. Anyways, I hope you enjoy the pictures and are inspired to sort your embroidery floss stash. Don't forget to write the color number on each card before you add the wrappers to the garbage pile, it takes the guess work out of what color it is exactly. Let me know your storage tricks and tips or your applique/embroidery story I can send you a coupon code for discounts on your next download from The Pattern Place. Happy Quilting

Appliques, Quilts and the Caribbean Sea

2009-08-28T10:49:00.007-06:00

August has been one of the most exciting months in a long time!!

My children are growing and growing and we are enjoying every minute of it. One and almost three makes for busy days but quiet nights, it is very fun. We are looking forward to the nearly compulsory three year old princess themed birthday party ;) I am very excited to try another fondant birthday cake, sister's turned out quite well back in July. The Ladybug was made from a bowl cake and a cupcake for the head. The pipe cleaners made for a wonderful set of antennae. The grass was so easy and made the whole cake come together. I didn't write on the top until just before we cut it, I was a little busy and forgot to get a picture :) Emilee loved it and it tasted yummy too!

The quilting part of my life is moving forward and I am so excited, there are lots of new patterns and projects swimming around in my head and some are actually making it out and into patterns. I have found a quilting buddy to help me get some projects completed and tested so I look forward to the next few months. The web site will be changing and I can't wait to let you see the latest creations from The Pattern Place. The last few days have been just a whirlwind for many reasons but it looks as if I will be creating a pattern for a magazine publication !! I am very excited and of course will give more details as things move further along :)

Personally, things have been so good they are reaching the surreal, hubby and I were able to go on vacation together as the girls went on vacation to Grammy's house. We spent a week in Negril, Jamaica and it was fabulous. The water is so clear and warm, the sun was hot and the time to relax was well, relaxing! We stayed in a great resort on the west end and enjoyed the option to visit a sister property right on the beach. I was able to bring my Grandmother's Flower Garden quilt and spend a few minutes putting it together. So my cute little blanket is well traveled and closer to finished. It was so fun to sit and stitch under an umbrella with the Caribbean Sea only a few steps away. I enjoyed the puzzled looks from locals and other tourists alike, apparently hand quilting is not that identifiable. It was about 40°C that day so some quick photos with it spread out on my lap was all I could stand, too hot. It came home safe and sound and just a little sandy.

Well there is a ton of work to do, someone needs to unpack those suitcases and get the girls back in our routine. Nevermind the sewing and designing that has to happen. Summer is almost over here in Canada so we are out to enjoy that too :) Happy Quilting

Applique Quilting Fun

2009-07-12T23:22:00.019-06:00

Well things are slowing down just a little around my house, so I thought I would get back to my sewing. The baby has turned one, daddy even had a birthday, so we are full from the cake still. Things have been hectic and uncomfortable at times but we are moving forward.

I have broken my only rule of quilting, again, "don't buy another project until you're finished this one." So yep, I bought the kit for the "Joy to the World" applique quilt by Nancy Halvorsen - LOVE IT!!

I am two blocks away from having her 'Be Attitudes" blanket completed, not that bad I guess. Here are some quick pictures that don't include my toes ;) It needs a press after taking it to quilt group the other day, can't wait to have it COMPLETELY finished. Well enough of my guilty pleasures.

My grandmother's flower garden is coming together and I am looking forward to a hefty road trip in August to get some more put together. But for now here are the results.

I have decided to sew the quilt in strips and then sew the strips together, something about a huge big quilt on my lap in August makes me overheat! Thank you for the comments, I am putting a template basting tutorial on my to do list. I would also love to know how you can reuse your templates when you stitch them to your fabric? The things I didn't know I didn't know :)

Well I am off to sew or rest or clean, not sure it will be the later - Happy Quilting

Machine Quilting and Flower Garden Fun

2009-05-19T18:14:00.020-06:00

So many fun things to talk about. I have been busy and not because I have been doing laundry ;)

Machine quilting is so much fun, especially when your tension is good, your bobbin doesn't run out AND your thread doesn't break. I have several smaller projects completed, a baby quilt for my niece and and few other recipient unknowns. So far they are all panel tops, no pieced projects but I do have an applique quilt to finish before my first nephew comes for a visit. I am still learning to know when and where and how to make the quilting the best I can. I am going to put a few more pantograph patterns together and really figure out the scale of the quilting design. I have had a little thread battle but I think I have that figured out, all in all, all is good.

This week I have been taken completely over by my Grandmother's Flower Garden project. I am hooked, those little flowers can keep me up way past my bedtime. Things are progressing and I love the lay out design, thanks to the internet, I have found. I also found a great tutorial on-line for basting the fabric to the cardboard template. The only thing I do different then in the photos is that I don't pin my template and fabric together, oh and I knot my thread to start and finish. I don't want the basting to come out if I leave it for a while before assembling a block. Okay so I will try to be kind but I just don't understand why you sew your fabric to the cardboard - now you can't use the template again and you have to take out the stitches. So to anyone who has sewn their templates to their fabric, I am sorry and to anyone considering a Grandma's Flower Garden Quilt using an English Paper Piecing method baste your fabric to your templates. Please send me an email if you have any questions :)

My family is great, my little ones are getting bigger. Dad is away this week, so we should get lots of sewing done... we hope.

Archived Free Applique Quilt Patterns

2009-04-25T00:31:00.012-06:00

Spring cleaning my website is so much fun. I am cleaning up to make room for some great new patterns. These previously offered for free download or purchased download patterns are now available here for free. We ask that you use these patterns for your own personal use and respect our copy right guidelines, now that that's out of the way, on to the good stuff.

First things, here is the Three Stars and Twinkle Applique Package. This pattern package was very successful as a free download. I would love your comments and feedback on the pattern. Oh and a pictures of your completed project would be wonderful. We will include it in our Design Gallery section of the website. The pattern has been condensed onto one page but I think the scale has been kept the same. If you were one of the many to download this pattern, let me know and I can tweak it again if need be. The instructions are general so if you have any questions or need help feel free to send me an email. This is truly a quick and easy gift or project for your new addition. Trust me I know, the example shown here was finished in the wee hours one night. It was a hot night and I was 32 weeks pregnant with our second daughter. It took about and hour to cut out the stars and stitch the words, not bad really. The frame is a less expensive version of all those possible, a.k.a it came from the dollar store ;) But put it all together and it is very good, so nice you can keep it or give it away.

Alright here is a great flower pattern, originally designed for paper applique on a scrapbook page or for handmade cards. I think it would be very cute in felt on a pillow in a girls room or blanket stitched with cotton in a wall hanging. The ski is the limit so be creative and remember send us a picture of your project so we can share your creativity and I will send you a coupon for your next pattern download. Love me ... Love me not... comes in a single page pattern. It is easy to print or save on your computer for the next time you need a really easy and very cute embellishment.

Well that feels good, these are some great patterns that I hope you will enjoy. Let me know if you are looking for something in particular, I love to make patterns and if you will do the sewing, we all win! I have a few in mind to add to here this summer so check back or stay tuned as it were. Good luck with your own Spring Cleaning, may be I can get some sleep before the girls are awake. Happy Quilting !!

Looking for more free patterns? Go to the top of the page and click the "free patterns" link to our free patterns page. Hope you enjoy. Send us an email with your photo and we will post it to The Pattern Place Gallery.

Too many projects and not enough time.

2009-04-16T14:11:00.008-06:00

Things at our house are busy as usual, we are enjoying every moment as they happen or trying to at least!

Our Easter was wonderful, we really enjoyed the long weekend with Dad. The bunny made an appearance or two and the girls loved finding eggs with cousin. We ate a wonderful meal and went to bed early, what more can you ask for really?

I have taken some pictures of my Be Attitudes applique blocks, they are so much fun. I have always loved to applique and Nancy Halverson's patterns are especially fun. So beautiful and direct, not complicated or fussy. I love how her patterns are presented, easy to follow and clear. They make me re-check my patterns and aspire to the same standard. I have learned a lot from teaching others the fusible web technique and with my personal practice of late I am feeling the needed improvement with this technique. My sewing machine and I are getting along nicely and I have some real time spent perfecting my applique stitch - love it. So now I just need to finish all the blocks and get it on my quilting frame and get some practice in that department as well, that's what I love about teaching, generally the teacher learns more than the student. Thank you to my quilting group, we might be small but we are learning and sewing. :)

My latest love, other than the Be Attitudes applique, is an English Paper Piecing project. I have a local quilt store that carries the pre-cut hexagons paper templates by Paper Pieces, on the web at www.paperpieces.com They are sew much fun, pun intended. I have two sizes, the 1" and the 1 1/4", that measurement is of one side, not the diameter, keep that in mind when looking, that makes a big difference. Any who, I am slowly getting my color scheme put together and looking forward to hours spent in the car or something like that so I can make a dent. I would like the top to be at least twin so my fabric stash takes a hit and I only 'have' to buy some key fabrics. Ahh the rationalizing, at least my husband has a hobby he spends more money on. Here is a picture of the start, I will post more as things get further along.

I have some really exciting applique patterns in the works, think wild west and babies. There is also a penny rug expansion planned for The Pattern Place. Like I said at the beginning too many projects and not enough time, that and the baby is up from her nap, timing is everything :)
Happy Quilting and send me an email with your thoughts and or suggestions.

Time flies

2009-03-24T11:45:00.004-06:00

Oooops, I missed posting here last month. Time does fly. Well here's whats new. The girls are growing and growing, we are healthy and looking forward to time spent out of doors - you can do it Spring!!!
The quilting fairy has not come and finished my projects as I slept but I have been very blessed. I was able to purchase a Grace quilting frame for quite a bargain and I am loving it. I have done only one panel top quilt as a first try and it turned out great, I did learn a few things and so I can't wait to get my machine back on the frame. I think I need to find a quilting specific machine to leave on the Grace all the time. I have had quite a machine applique focus lately, I have organized a quilt group that meets each month, we are working on the Nancy Halverson - Be Attitudes, so wonderful, I am working ahead of schedule because I love it. We meet this Thursday, I will take some pictures and post them next week.
Happy quilting, Darcy

Patterns and Pretty Things

2009-01-31T23:32:00.008-07:00

Well January is just about over, we have been very busy having a lot of fun. The people we meet and talk quilts with are I am sure some of the most interesting around. I receive so much joy from introducing quilting to those starting or wanting to start. I love sewing quilts and appliques, I think they are so beautiful. So I hope my enthusiasm rubs off just a little and doesn't rub anyone the wrong way. Thank you to those I have met or spoken to this month and keep those questions coming.

Pattern News: The newest free applique pattern is ready to download! Hearts with Love is available for download and can be found in the free pattern section of The Pattern Place website. We hope your Valentine wishes and projects come true and of course finished for Valentine's day. We are working on several large scale applique patterns, and some seasonal patterns for a quick and easy project. Let us know your thoughts and comments on the patterns we offer. Looking a particular applique pattern, send me an email. I can make custom applique patterns just for you or add them to my current patterns for everyone to enjoy.

I spend a lot of time online, mostly playing and seeking inspiration, instruction and insights. This leads me to a lot of great web sites, some I post links to from my web site (The Pattern Place) and some I just make a mental note of. Silly me, I should post them here, that way we all can see them and frankly I might be able to remember them all a little better. So with out further ado....
visit Quilt Qua, a wonderful quilting resource of all things quilt. From blogs to articles, tips to a photo gallery its a fun place to spend a minute or two.

Let it Snow

2009-01-06T14:01:00.004-07:00

Happy New Year!!
The holidays are great fun, we really enjoyed spending time with family and friends. We loved eating and staying up too late, watching movies and giving gifts. Sadly it is time to get back to a routine and some resemblance of bedtime, well that part I am looking forward to. So as promised last month here is 'Let it Snow' This is a wonderful and wonderfully easy applique banner made from cotton and wool felt appliques. Start with a solid fabric top, no piecing here, stitch your appliques in place, sandwich with batting and in our case the same fabric for backing. Then some quick machine quilting, I tried a new continuous line pattern, so much fun, some binding and your done. It was really fun to design and put together. We hope you enjoy and let us know if you have any questions and what you think. Happy Quilting, Darcy

'Tis the Season

2008-12-22T11:47:00.003-07:00

What a wonderful and wonderfully busy time of the year. Our lives have been complicated due to some personal health concerns but with this added tension comes the perspective of what really matters. So we are focused on our children and extended family and a little less on the hustle and bustle of shopping and those things. We have hosted a great Christmas and Baby party so we are now looking forward to a great family night of wrapping presents, some home made and all to be given with love. An unexpected stay in the hospital has delayed the addition of a great winter banner, 'Let it Snow' to our pattern line but in the New Year I will add it, unfortunately here in Canada and in many other places there will be enough winter left to still "enjoy" its sentiments. From our family to yours may you find joy, peace and His love at this wonderful time of the year. Merry Christmas.

Fall Leaves Table Runner and Pre-Christmas Fun

2008-11-09T23:17:00.004-07:00

Things are good and lots of fun, my 26 month old is so very busy learning to say new words every day, our dog's name this last week. The newborn is somehow 4 months old and technically not so new born anymore, she is wonderful and holds her head by herself. We have had family weddings, family reunions and mini vacations in the last few months, with many memories made. I have been busy teaching classes, designing and sewing new patterns and with Christmas around the corner I am looking forward to the months ahead. The table runner pattern shown with the Fall Leaves and Acorn Applique Pattern is ready. It is a lot of fun, the seams are straightforward and create an interesting and easy home decor project. We are always being inspired and designing, updating the web site and I enjoy my posts here, just about monthly. We love your comments and feedback as we move forward, if there is a pattern or project you would like to suggest please let us know. I love talking quilts and sewing, send me an email! Happy Quilting

Putting it all Together

2008-10-17T15:12:00.013-06:00

Well three months can go by faster than you want. Things are busy and wonderful. Our children are truly a miracle and so much fun. I have been able to put some things together amid my new family of four.

The foundation quilt pattern for Easter Delight can be found here. This quilt pattern works up very quickly and is quite fun to put together. I like it because I know that the appliqués will be the focus and who am I kidding, straight seams are always easier :) You can adjust any number of the design elements, larger boxes or sashing for example to accommodate your appliqué. This quilt pattern is great for any appliqué project, center your designs within the nine squares or arrange your designs to off set the openings and 'think out side the box' as it were.

My Scrappy Irish Chain class went very well in September, we have even had a follow-up get together in early October. My personal project is coming together nicely and Emi's quilt top will hopefully be ready for Christmas. You can see the original quilt I made in tones of pink in the background and in my hands is the current project in shades of teal and chocolate It was great to work with some great ladies as I taught this quilt pattern for the first time. I love the fusible interfacing appliqué technique we used and I think the participants appreciated the time they saved as they appliquéd. I will post further pictures as the top is finished and I have the quilting completed.

There are several new patterns in the works, a great fall leaves and acorn pattern that I am completing the table runner example for today, hopefully. I am trying to echo quilt it and the learning curve is a little steep. All in good fun, Happy Quilting

Birthdays and Appliques

2008-09-08T12:09:00.004-06:00

What a weekend, second birthday parties are a lot of fun and a lot of work. The party went great and we all had a so much fun. Thank you to all our friends and family for taking the time to share and play with us.
So I have been at my machine just tying up some loose ends, I have nearly finished quilting a lap quilt I started at least five years ago. I have finished some receiving blankets for a new niece or nephew due in April and I have made some example blocks for a quilt class coming up in mid September. I am quite excited to have the opportunity to teach the quilting class. I have adapted a Scrappy Irish Chain pattern I found years ago, my appliqué block is completed with fusible interfacing rather than the needle turn method as described. I find it is easier, more accurate and saves my fingers from the tip of my iron. Ouch is all I have to say. The night should be a lot of fun, I will take some pictures and recap how things go. Happy quilting, Darcy

Our family of Four

2008-07-19T23:28:00.005-06:00

New addition to our family, Emilee Mae was born July 8, 2008. She arrived two weeks ahead of her due date with only minor complications, all is well now and we are loving having her here. Things are very busy and not much sleep seems like normal already. There are projects on the go and we are planning and desiging some great patterns so keep watching in the next few months as things settle out in my house and I have the opportunity to put my thoughts to paper and then fabric. Thank you to all those who have helped support my family in the past weeks and months to come.

Easter Delight is Finished

2008-07-04T14:44:00.021-06:00

As with most things, it is

worth the wait.

Anna is getting so big, although in this picture she is only five months old. Speaking of getting big, so is my baby belly. The three of us, and Dad when he can, are hiding out from the summer heat in our basement, in Grandma's pool or at the lake. Little Emilee should be here soon so I am trying to get things tided up before I get to blissfully busy to care!!!!

I say that I can put my sewing down but even with Anna there was always a project on the go. Two little girls might just be enough, no who am I kidding, there are rooms to decorate and scrapbooks to finish, to much fun.

Anyways its done!!! Anna's Easter quilt, Easter Delight. I am quite happy with how it turned out. It is an original design, the appliques are fleece and wool felt and the quilt top is cotton. It is machine quilted, that is one of my favorite things to do, I was able to quilt it one afternoon as Anna had one of her marathon naps. The pattern is available at The Pattern Place web site. You can download the bunnies separately for now or the complete pattern; bunnies and flowers together. I am working on the pattern and written instructions for the quilt top, it will be available here on The Pattern Place blog when finished. I have so many things to look forward to, a new little baby added to an already wonderful little family is so exciting. I am thankful and grateful for all the wonderful blessings in my life. Happy Quilting

New Free Pattern

2008-06-13T14:42:00.003-06:00

Things are going well, life is good and that feels great. My little girl is 21 months old and pure joy nearly every minute of every day. Baby number two is 4 -6 weeks away, so with a little bit of back pain but no real inhibitors I am prepping for a new life chapter.

I have carved out a little bit of time for some sewing and time spent at my computer. The results are a new Twinkle Stitchery pattern, now bundled with the Three Stars Template originally offered for paid download. As well as some additional example photos. I have one major project nearly finished, Easter Delight should be ready and photographed in the next week. I am very pleased with the originality and quality of the appliqués. So I will stop typing now and get back to it. Happy Quilting

The Sewing Goes Slowly

2008-05-31T22:52:00.003-06:00

So things in the applique department are moving slightly slower than I desire but I have been down with a nasty cold and at 32 weeks pregnant that is no laughing matter. I am working to complete some big sewing projects and at the same time trying to keep the pattern ideas from bursting from my head, I love to be inspired. Well I will give next week to my sewing, the week after to new patterns and then I think some baby prep is in order. I can't wait to wash all those little clothes but I don't want to get to ahead of myself. I hope to take some family pictures tomorrow, capture the three of us before it becomes four !! Happy Quilting Darcy

Lazy Daisy Project

2008-05-04T18:38:00.066-06:00

OK here we go!!! I have taken on some challenges recently, some I create for myself and others come and find me. Learning is such a wonderful experience, this project has been fun and very rewarding.

This pattern is offered for free, click the free patterns button above. Print these patterns onto standard letter computer paper. My appliques were cut from several colors of purple and green felt. I love to trace my patterns using a light box onto a very light weight fusible interfacing, space them comfortably apart so you can cut close to but not on the line, then using a hot iron fuse to the fabric or in this case felt. Let the appliques cool, then cut using the traced lines on the fusible interfacing. Then I arranged the flower and leaf appliques as desired, basted them in place and began thinking about assembly of the pieced border.

The pieced border was where my challenge showed itself and my honesty must come out. I have always followed someone elses pattern when constructing a quilt. I thought that I should author this entire project, so I cut my center block, arranged and basted my appliques before considering the size and how that would affect my border design, rookie mistake I hope.

Knowing now that this project progressed the really hard way from this point on, for me, here are the cutting instructions I should have used.

Cut center block 12.5"x16.5"
Cut border strips 1.5"x 14" cut 18
Cut outer border 3.5"x 20.5" for top/bottom
Cut outer border 3.5"x 22.5" for sides
Cut approximately 110" of 2.5" wide strips to bind wall hanging.
Cut backing and batting approximately 26"x 30"

Stitch three of the 14" strips together six times to yield 6 strip units. Press seams and cut each unit into three 4.5" square blocks, yielding 18 blocks.

Assemble center block and side borders as shown.

Add top and bottom of border as shown.

Add sides and top/bottom of outer border in exactly the same way. I hope future projects, yours and mine can proceed a little smoother. On with my original post :)

I thought the asymmetrical applique design would lend itself to a stitchery component in the upper right hand corner and while wrestling with the border the phrase 'Love grows Here' entered my mind. I do try to listen to the little bits of insight and perspective life hands out and after being quite frustrated and hard on myself I smiled and gave thanks for the lesson taught, love truly grows everywhere. After tracing the pattern Loves grows Here, which is included in the free pattern page above, to my center block with my handy light box and a water soluble pen I stitched the design with brown embroidery floss and made sure all markings were erased. A back stitch truly works the best when stitching lettering, I am no expert but this aspect of the project was very relaxing, worked up quickly and I achieved the desired look with no real problems. In other words it worked and it was fun.

Now this is where I really began to enjoy myself, I love to machine quilt. I dream one day one hours spent machine quilting with an industrial long arm. Reality for now is learning to use my domestic machine and a darning foot. Its not as fancy but it can be done at my kitchen table while my almost two year old naps. After machine quilting the pieced border and quilting in the ditch the seams from center block and outer border I was really starting to like my Lazy Daisy Project. Now that the pieced border is quilted I can stitch the flowers and leaves using a blanket or applique stitch. For this project I wanted to match the thread and felt colors versus a high contrast thread which also produces great results. Feel free to use embroidery floss, there are hundreds of colors. I seperate the six threads and use two in my needle at a time. With the leaves and flowers stitched in place I decided to use felt, my other option was the cotton from the pieced border, for the center of the flowers. Once stitched down we are really close being done.

Next thing I added the binding so I could then trim away the excess backing and batting. Then I started and finished hand stitching the binding in place. All it needs is a label on the back and it is finished.

I hope you enjoy the Lazy Daisy Project or what ever parts of it you choose to use. Please let me know if you have any questions or feedback. We would love a picture of your completed project, it would be fantastic. We will make sure it is included in the Design Gallery section of The Pattern Place. Take care and Happy Quilting.

The Pattern Place on the Web

2008-04-11T23:02:00.004-06:00

Well it has taken longer than I thought it would but today www.thepatternplace.com is up and running. There are several kinks to work out but I look forward to making improvements. I am very excited to concentrate a little more on the patterns and projects piling up on my design table. I can't wait to be back at my sewing machine, thank you to all those that have contributed to this project thus far and to those who will make my step outside the comfort zone a success.