tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16054162371601533332024-03-05T12:03:51.218-08:00VintagekindagirlA personal quilting, sewing and creating journey. Tutorial and product reviews. Real stories and quilting adventures of a vintage kinda girl. Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-8782944780210558772020-05-29T21:11:00.000-07:002020-05-29T21:11:47.482-07:00QUICK AND HELPFUL READS and MORE ONLINE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SEWISTS, QUILTERS AND FABRIC CRAFTERS<span style="font-size: large;">Hello fabric Divas and Divos! I just finished reading a wonderful article on how Tension affects the outcome of a stitch and thought to myself "Self..." because, that's how I do it... "Self, many of your friends and VKG followers would probably like this article." And knowing how busy people are, myself included, who has time to look these things up? I don't either... but since I've been teaching from home due to COVID 19 I have more time to get nerdy and research quick reads for busy sewists. I promise you. These are not essays. Nobody wants to spend more time reading about sewing than actually sewing itself. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">I couldn't possibly list all of the articles that you might need or just want to read for your personal pleasure, interests or immediate need, so instead, I am listing links for places that have a plethora of articles from which to choose from. Click on the link I provided to take you directly to the page you need to be on for good reads.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/education" target="_blank">Superior Threads</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Who doesn't like Superior Threads? It's a Pillar in the quilt world and rightly so. Yes, there are many other brands that CAN hold a candle to Superior but it's the perfect go to. They have a YouTube chanel as well but their articles cover subjects in great depth and are very easy to find and helpful. If you click on "Superior Threads" it will take you directly to their education page. There you will find more articles than you ever thought existed about thread, sewing, tension... It's so wonderful!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/auriworld/aurifil-designers" target="_blank">Aurifil Philosophy</a> Quilters Love, Love, Love Aurifil. I love it for piecing because the two ply is just as strong as three ply but the thin strand makes me feel like there is less bulk. I could be wrong and it's probably in my head... but the term "less bulk" to a quilter is like saying "would you like more fudge on your ice cream?" YES! The site I am sending you to will go directly to the designers associated with Aurifil, but if you click on "Auriworld" you will discover a lot more. Free patterns, a blog, artisans. The designer page is easy to navigate. Simply click on the designer and poof, you go directly to their page and look at their information, posts and possibly freebies. Voile.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.quiltinghub.com/Articles" target="_blank">The Quilting Hub</a> I just stumbled across this great site when I googled "what to pack for a retreat". Many short articles about everything you might need to know in a pinch. Including ideas for quilt guild activites to do remotely during Social Distancing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.quiltingdaily.com/category/articles/" target="_blank">Quilting Daily</a> Again, looking for a short answer I stumbled upon this gem. If you click on "topics" you'll get a pull down box and from there you can go to the topic that interests you. In addition, there are links to podcasts, a blog, patterns and competitions. I noticed that the topics are project driven and full of wonderful ideas and help along the way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.connectingthreads.com/learning-center" target="_blank">Connecting Thread</a> Another Lovely thread line, extremely affordable AND they design and mill their own fabric lines. This is how they keep the costs down and their designers are people you probably know and love. The area of the site I am sending you to is Learn: Tutorials, Guides and Inspiration. Definitely worth a look. The tutorials are free and they have a "community" in which to share your creations and be inspired by others too. Give their thread and fabric a look while there. They are beautiful!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are many more and I will be happy to create a "Part 2" to this posting and... I bet you want to get started. So before I end I'll leave one last link. The article that got all of this started:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/education/how-tension-works" target="_blank"><br /></a></i></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson-text"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 28.6px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/education/how-tension-works" target="_blank">How does tension affect the outcome of a stitch?</a></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: crimson-text; font-size: large;">And with this I bid you Adieu to you and you and you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: crimson-text; font-size: large;">Until next time, stay calm and sew on.</span></div>
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-56005120545783544432020-05-27T07:42:00.002-07:002020-05-27T07:45:03.570-07:00FINDING ONLINE CREATIVE INSPIRATION DURING COVID 19 <span style="font-size: large;">Hello Makers! I have been home since March 13, 2020, when my school sent students home and closed its doors in order to hunker down, stay safe and wait out the worst. I feel most fortunate because I have been able to work/teach from home, though teaching music to elementary students from behind a computer screen is really counter-intuitive to my training. But again, I can't complain. I haven't been laid off, I teach from my "office" (sewing room) and I finally found my groove. The first few weeks I was not feeling inspired to sew. I stated in my previous post that instead of creating, I cleaned, purged and organized. It felt cathartic and in some way made me feel like I had some control over my life. Now, that things are slowing down, I feel like I am settling into a new routine of teaching on line, holding online tutorials for students, answering emails, google meet meetings, and leaving the house only when absolutely necessary, wearing a hand crafted mask so I feel "pretty" and disinfecting any and everything that crosses my doorstep. How about you? What is your new routine? Let me know in the comments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With the extra time I have at home in addition to finally beginning to sew again, I have also been binge watching all of the tutorials from my favorite Creators such as Vanessa Vargas Wilson of <a href="https://craftygemini.com/" target="_blank">Crafty Gemini</a>, and Sara Lawson from <a href="https://sewsweetness.com/?v=7516fd43adaa" target="_blank">Sew Sweetness</a>. Some of them are free to everyone, while others are tutorials that I purchased through their clubs and/or bundles. I don't know about you but when I watch a tutorial it inspires me to get to work and create. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a past post entitled "Online Learning for Busy Sewists, Bag Makers and Quilters", I created a list of YouTube Makers and websites that inspire and teach. Since I have been working from home, I have been lucky to find a few more inspiring creators and I want to share them with you so you may find the same inspiration and joy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is my list:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sewspire - Youtube</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Jean Truelove - Youtube</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Karen Brown of Just Get it Done Quilts - YouTube</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">SewYeah - YouTube</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Jess Oklaroots - YouTube</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All of these makers have beautiful tutorials on YouTube that are FREE! However, Sewspire and Jean Truelove are members of an on-line community called <a href="https://www.patreon.com/" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. This is a community of makers and artisans who share their medium, sometimes for free on Youtube, but for a nominal monthly pledge you can get so much more. For instance, I am a Patron of Sewspire and Jean Truelove. The pledges range between $1 - $100 per month depending on the amount of extra perks you desire. I fall pretty much in the $5-10 range, but I am getting so much in return. Extra tutorials, special sew alongs and patterns. It's really a gift I am giving to myself while also supporting woman owned businesses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me tell you more about these lovely women.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewspire Planner Caddy Organizer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUFYY3yeyQpU6XyBwycNTc3-sU68ueNKtpCXUSrRgODYJoO7uAuXJKId9OMHfdSJ5eKq7aLhq-gMPmntmIyzpuQGtpib8_ZeKOC2C3lJ7HhdOYC0Nrfup_HMOFjJZ5Cw4ETK8yd3Uewb4/s1600/88%252BtXG6lQj%252BF8zvQDI69rg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUFYY3yeyQpU6XyBwycNTc3-sU68ueNKtpCXUSrRgODYJoO7uAuXJKId9OMHfdSJ5eKq7aLhq-gMPmntmIyzpuQGtpib8_ZeKOC2C3lJ7HhdOYC0Nrfup_HMOFjJZ5Cw4ETK8yd3Uewb4/s320/88%252BtXG6lQj%252BF8zvQDI69rg.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewspire Planner Caddy Organizer inside view</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Andrea Chapman is the beauty behind <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbl9VdyGlSGxHXLZbFKhUpQ" target="_blank">Sewspire</a>. She lives and teaches from her studio in Virginia. Since being home and, quite honestly falling into a bit of a depression, I decided surf the internet for more ways to be creative with sewing. Andrea was exactly what I needed to gently remind myself to take care of me and find joy in something every day. Her teaching style is calming, step by step and she develops her creations right in front of you. You can sew along with her or watch and sew along the second time. She has refreshing ideas and I really love her way of constructing bags which, for me, needs to be dummy proof. Listen to her talk and tell me what you think in the comments. I just love listening and learning from her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second lovely lady is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsD2t-2Pv-iacHp4W8NhmSw" target="_blank">Jean Truelove</a>. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Teaching and filming from her studio in her home in Pennsylvania, she is the definition of exuberant and I adore her. One of Jean's sons told her she needed to record her creations and make a Youtube chanel. She really didn't take him seriously so one day he walked into her studio and began recording her whilst asking her what she was doing step by step. 30 minutes later he said "you have a youtube chanel mom. Get to work." That beginning totally fits her personality. I've never met her but I know she is one of those people who jump in feet first and just start swimming. I love her zaniness and energy. She makes some beautiful quilts and recently started making bags. While she admits bags are not her thing She has some pretty great design and construction ideas. And I love her art quilts and beautiful quilt blocks. My new favorite is her appliqué heart wall hanging. Absolutely gorgeous and she takes you step by step in her design method and construction. She talks a lot... she admits this so I 'm not spreading nasty gossip. However, I find her to be so enjoyable. It's like sitting with a friend you've known forever and just getting caught up. She really lets you into her life. She has 10... Yes T E N children! Alright? She's an angel in my book. Her youngest, Maxwell, is 20 and lives at home. He's autistic and the light of the family's eye. He sometimes appears in her videos along side her amazing husband, Ian. I feel like I'm part of the Truelove family! Anyway, I became a patron of hers as well because I wanted to be included in her extra videos and tutorials as well. She calls it her "tip jar". If you like it, leave a tip! You can't go wrong. Recently I found one of her free tutorials on creating a 5 piece of fabric block in three seams!!! OMG It's gorgeous. Look it up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The third YouTube teacher that I quite enjoy is Karen Brown from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQt_y4kqMQlG1id0n975DVg" target="_blank">Just Get It Done Quilts</a>. She lives, works and teaches from Canada. Her tips and tricks are spot on and recently I made a quilt in one day from her Comfort Quilt using "ugly" fabrics. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnTZyl7tIhnGL8B0jlsYNZPoNMaIhBgB95HtCbslAtblL9Nv4QiGF6vtkgCCOnQAgUwfFGlHPMq7TDydGZgA_D4Ms5BZYJ7xzVguPLOHF3OPJAWc1Rc8ErZsKnpyOesfr0NfOtv69bw-2/s1600/T57OqKhlQH6MY5qedDyo5Q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnTZyl7tIhnGL8B0jlsYNZPoNMaIhBgB95HtCbslAtblL9Nv4QiGF6vtkgCCOnQAgUwfFGlHPMq7TDydGZgA_D4Ms5BZYJ7xzVguPLOHF3OPJAWc1Rc8ErZsKnpyOesfr0NfOtv69bw-2/s320/T57OqKhlQH6MY5qedDyo5Q.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ugly Fabric" Comfort Quilt, waiting to be sandwiched and quilted</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I just wanted to complete something! And this scratched the itch. Recently she posted a video on flying geese. So many different things to learn about flying geese. She has several ways of constructing them and teaches you how to measure them too. Lots of math. She's a quilt math wizard! She's practical, down to earth, creative, warm and very talented! Please take a moment to look at her helpful tutorials and videos. Her tips will also help you save money! That means more for fabric.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of money for fabric... have you watched the brothers of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCklfVhDsXJCagKWJ1Ru91fg" target="_blank">Sew Yeah</a>? They all quilt! Their Brick and Mortar store is in Las Vegas however when COVID hit the country all of their inventory became last week news as new inventory began to arrive. What to do? Well, they took to YouTube and began their Saturday Night Fabric Destash. It's like a Fabric party on Youtube. They're all really fun, and it's family friendly. Recently, to help out a cousin and his wife who were laid off due to COVID, they offered to sell some of the couples' handcrafted goat soap. The quilters loved it (I bought 4 bars myself and they're awesome) and now that's part of their offering as well. The Destash has done really well. So well that their following asked for new stuff in addition to destash. So they added Tuesday Night NewStash! That's a lot of Stash!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How many of you just love to read the pattern and then read it again while you are crafting your item? A few? NOT ME! I'm a musician... who is a visual learner! I want to see someone make it in front of me. That's how I know it can be done. When I read a pattern it's like reading sand script. So I am very happy when I find a super smart and creative person who is gracious and kind enough to make a video of popular patterns for YouTube. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5Xmzq0tXkKmwt1uKGaXFLw" target="_blank">Jess Oklaroots</a> is that person! She provides video tutorials for several patterns from popular pattern makers such as <a href="https://www.bagstockdesigns.com/collections/pdf-sewing-patterns" target="_blank">BagstockDesigns</a>, <a href="https://emmalinebags.com/" target="_blank">Emmaline Bags</a> and <a href="https://swoonpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Swoon Patterns</a>. She's organized in her teaching, detailed oriented and always throws in a tip to make things even easier. I like easier! If you look at her video playlists you will also find a section for beginner bag makers. Not that I need it... I mean, sometimes I look at it... but, I'm not a beginner. Okay, I feel like one every time I begin a bag! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, I hope my list of makers inspires you to take a peek and see that life is happening all over the country. Let's support them by liking their videos, become a patron or thumbs up. This is the time to lift each other up and keep moving to the beat of a new day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay Calm, Stay Safe and Sew On!</span><br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-89693107378712958212020-05-23T12:18:00.000-07:002020-05-23T12:19:04.314-07:00 CONFESSIONS OF A QUILTER/SEWIST DURING THE COVID 19 PANDEMIC<span style="font-size: large;">Well, here we are. At home. Some of us working from home, like myself, but it still leaves me personal time to do the other thing I love... work with fabric! One Vlogist and tutorialist (I may have made up that word) that I love to follow is Karen Brown of "Just Get It Done Quilts" and she said "This is what we've all been training for." And she's right! I mean, unrestricted time in my sewing room, no interruptions, stay up as late as I like, as long as I can show up in my jammies for lessons on my laptop in the morning? The first two weeks were free of teaching. So, I had as much time on my hands as I have ever dreamed of... and yet... I was completely uninspired. Instead I spent my time cleaning out closets, the basement, I moved my sewing room to a larger guest room because... let's face it... we're not having visitors for a while. I cleaned, sorted, organized, purged and finally landed in my sewing room and faced the reality of life at that moment. I was scared! Yes! Never in my life have I lived through something like this. So, I reached out to a person who I knew would have some perspective on this situation. I spoke to my 89 year old father. He lived through the depression and WWII, helped to rebuild a broken and bombed Europe and then returned home to the States to rebuild his own life. He has known strife and uncertainty and lived to tell the tale. Judging from where he is now in life I know we will get through this pandemic, one way or another. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">However, I worry about what this will look like for the foreseeable future. Short term, what will my summer and fall look like? Will I go to my beloved gatherings in July and October? When will I return to my job? Will I have a job? Or will we need to continue social distancing in some fashion? Long Term, how will our economy survive? How will the small businesses make it through? How will people make ends meet? So many questions. Not to mention the worry over loved ones and the leaders of our communities and our country. Again, Karen Brown offerred some comfort. She lives and works in Canada and has lived through other situations very similar if not identical to the Covid 19 crisis. Her words, "You just get through it!" </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After two weeks of purging my life I was asked by several people if I would make them and their families masks. They were scared, and frankly, so am I. Some believe these masks offer little to keep us safe but it really doesn't matter. They keep you a little safer and a little is better than nothing. I also had to use some engenuity and work with a few materials I don't normally work with in order to make the masks more efficient for some family members. I like challenges. Especially ones in which I feel I can surmount. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I watched several... and when I say several I mean probably over 20, tutorials on the best ways to make a surgical mask. I settled on two and made a mash up of one that suited my style of sewing and creating. They have been a hit so far. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have been able to start things I had on the back burner, finish things I had in a waiting to finish pile and even begin to dream of upcoming projects that I might like to make. What's on your Pandemic plate. Post pictures in the comments and let's keep each other inspired. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sew Sweetness Tower Cross Body Bag, Free Pattern</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lily, my Sewing Room, everywhere I go, Pup</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sewspire Journal Tool Keeper - Free Tutorial</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just Get It Done Quilts, Karen Brown's "Comfort Quilt for Ugly Fabric" quilt. Mine are shades of blue in mostly Lotta Jansdotter fabric. I don't think its ugly fabric but I wanted to make something that reminded me of delft, broken up into pieces. Probably how I feel at the moment. </span></td></tr>
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-89092736056311883842019-11-09T10:51:00.000-08:002020-05-27T20:33:37.359-07:00RETURN ON RETREAT<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Last month I attended my annual Smokey Mountain retreat with ladies I met through The Crafty Gemini. We wanted to get together even more often so Andra, of Andramakes on Instagram, came up with the idea of a fall retreat in a lovely log cabin in the beautiful Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. We think about it all year! We have a count-down from the end of the last day of one retreat to the beginning of the first day of the next retreat! This year was no different. We gathered, cooked, ate, shared, and of course sewed and quilted. It is an incredible feeling to be surrounded by women who share a common passion: fabric and all things made with fabric!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We are cheerleaders for each other, teachers, mentors, and design assistants. However, not one Quilt Police among us. Encouragement and support is what drives people to keep going even on their worst days and it's no different with my quilty friends. We are our worst critics, however, being part of a positive and enriching quilting community is key to success. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the summer my dear friend BJ and I attended the Mid-Appalacian Quilt Convention. It has been in existence for over 30 years and this year was special because it was the first year held at a different venue, Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, PA. Lovely campus, albeit a little spread out. But it was the first year and actually put together at the last minute due to the original venue needing to cancel with no warning. So, all in all, it was still successful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The classes were amazing, the instructors top in their field, the accomodations adequate (probably working the bugs out) and the food, surprisingly good. It was a bargain considering I took a top-notch class every day for three days, was lodged and fed... it added up to $400! That's right! Plus, they had "volunteer" porters to move your equipment to and from classes as needed, tips welcome. And remembering what it was like to be a student, I was very grateful and generous for their service. What was missing? Camraderie. The kind you receive from an intimate gathering of friends who treat you like family (or better) and who don't "police" your work. BJ and I found it amusing and I am sure there were other like-minded quilters there. In fact, the instructors were more like my retreat sisters; not looking for perfection or loosing sight of the reason we do what we do. Remember, perfect is not necesarily finished and finished is perfect!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some pictures of work I completed at the retreat and pieces I am still working on from the MAQ convention. Enjoy and remember, "Stay Calm and Quilt On".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">MAQ Convention, July 2019. BJ and I on campus, enjoying the beautiful historic buildings and yummy food:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk8GlvrYT8_e5k9p-CWV_HDU3ekKD4mVfsTD2emke2OdyT78BvHNDr9xOynRAqe37mzdIukXBDtGxnEBLZyLpR3LhIN4SOIJuejQtKqNoCEq65vQjDFK0cjnNxxhES3wmidbnrFGiCzqy/s1600/uSsFjgv7T46SSuXblwZdQA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk8GlvrYT8_e5k9p-CWV_HDU3ekKD4mVfsTD2emke2OdyT78BvHNDr9xOynRAqe37mzdIukXBDtGxnEBLZyLpR3LhIN4SOIJuejQtKqNoCEq65vQjDFK0cjnNxxhES3wmidbnrFGiCzqy/s320/uSsFjgv7T46SSuXblwZdQA.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird Thread Painting Class with Joyce Hughes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DIPwobYo4keMN7BcXyrokMwzRk5YKrmjDLAoqSb5ecnkiyrTel1VBRVfGsympMl2g19hhTNyxjzEr7Lu0WaoDVoZHlQE5Cov5aGianhkvmmrBtsTMi4ctdG4Bwc0UBLwbS_xi2i_PfqO/s1600/8i7VeVaNTMiMPw9wCJnoHg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DIPwobYo4keMN7BcXyrokMwzRk5YKrmjDLAoqSb5ecnkiyrTel1VBRVfGsympMl2g19hhTNyxjzEr7Lu0WaoDVoZHlQE5Cov5aGianhkvmmrBtsTMi4ctdG4Bwc0UBLwbS_xi2i_PfqO/s320/8i7VeVaNTMiMPw9wCJnoHg.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water Color and Thread painting with Joyce Hughes</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tennessee Retreat:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihJTlm9N4p-NBBdblfWz2WUjTh-Jblb6aFJHut1tctWIMmPMBofEEDTmfe56caqC9GDe518rdbdNPyszindEEylaXZkCEMvQSrHdgMpWmVlzXK7dsU4vhyphenhyphen6eFFEPfSMbSPhsuGR_04FtH/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1359" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihJTlm9N4p-NBBdblfWz2WUjTh-Jblb6aFJHut1tctWIMmPMBofEEDTmfe56caqC9GDe518rdbdNPyszindEEylaXZkCEMvQSrHdgMpWmVlzXK7dsU4vhyphenhyphen6eFFEPfSMbSPhsuGR_04FtH/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" width="271" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHchL3Kz_c1hVUV0otGTclWcjFGyA-IlaIhI82sZCDUZAg5EubxClAeJPuQ-PQ8oDHt9YJSxhCZnBc9CvevQGvDl75adYLix2VOm_DciJIEJihc6lfmQWebINIfkr5vHd3WXgUBjh2uLw/s1600/IMG_1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHchL3Kz_c1hVUV0otGTclWcjFGyA-IlaIhI82sZCDUZAg5EubxClAeJPuQ-PQ8oDHt9YJSxhCZnBc9CvevQGvDl75adYLix2VOm_DciJIEJihc6lfmQWebINIfkr5vHd3WXgUBjh2uLw/s320/IMG_1553.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
UFO No. 1 from 2014... Finished I used a lot of<br />
techniques for FMQ that I learned from watching<br />
Angela Walters YouTube Videos<br />
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On the Right is a Quilt I have promised my Jeep Loving Wife! It still needs boarders but it's nearly done. This is my own pattern.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-284N0pCFde9dGFXVVNyaRfZjTLeqX9QxZdtFuJvPxW1cKvzK5z8KFHXR5BXLkUoAfymmOSpuHWrxHXNmuEY5kaAwCv033gexIiRs9166aSvik40Si7Iq6AAf6YMjtHmp_Cfog25HRpZW/s1600/IMG_1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-284N0pCFde9dGFXVVNyaRfZjTLeqX9QxZdtFuJvPxW1cKvzK5z8KFHXR5BXLkUoAfymmOSpuHWrxHXNmuEY5kaAwCv033gexIiRs9166aSvik40Si7Iq6AAf6YMjtHmp_Cfog25HRpZW/s320/IMG_1555.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This is a Crafty Gemini Quilt I pieced last summer at her retreat. Afterward she taught us different FMQ'ing techniques which we practiced on every block. I can really see the evolution of my quilting from the first to the last block which I quilted this summer at the Smokey Mountain Retreat. I am pretty happy. It's difficult for me to NOT quilt police myself... <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlZeK0gevWweQeofbiykKaoJkreQIkwl9T-eZQNDF1eTLT5vN6vnCrAt-VewE66RBO8SoK7st4mcYR3RbLmzcHdqVDhQ6V-frINYn_gRNRFekAKM8BnGevEwU7mU28qNWsuhAIerYOfQ9/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlZeK0gevWweQeofbiykKaoJkreQIkwl9T-eZQNDF1eTLT5vN6vnCrAt-VewE66RBO8SoK7st4mcYR3RbLmzcHdqVDhQ6V-frINYn_gRNRFekAKM8BnGevEwU7mU28qNWsuhAIerYOfQ9/s320/IMG_1556.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This little cutie is from the samosa block, also taught by Vanessa Vargas Wilson using her 10" slicer. I played with the placement and this placement looked like funky fat birds. So, I thread painted spindly legs, added pieces of fabric for tail and head, buttons for eyes and created twidly birds. It's hanging on the Wall of The Twisted Stitcher Quilt Retreat Center owned by Pat Armbrister and her Husband near Gainesville Florida.</span></div>
Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-8875740294502753322019-10-05T12:22:00.002-07:002019-10-05T12:22:57.973-07:00DECLUTTER THE CLUTTER<span style="font-size: large;">"I might need this for my next project" </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"It's so pretty... I will use it somewhere"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"I might be interested in this again"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sewists and quilters have all said this to ourselves at one time or another. Over the past two years I have had to move my sewing room three times and each time I realize I have more than I need, use or want. However, because money doesn't grow on trees and we have invested a lot into our passion we are hesitant to part with items that sit long forgotten and are literally taking up space. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Recently I returned from a daytime sewing retreat to find my room completely destroyed... by me! I literally took it apart in order to put my travel items together for ONE DAY of sewing fun at a friends house. Many of the items lying about were things I never use, haven't used in a long time, or have several of the same. I couldn't face the mess so I put my travel sewing items in the room and shut the door. The condition of the room, the clutter and the guilt over things that go unused keeps me from sewing and stunts my creativity. Thinking back on when I am my most creative I realized that I have only the items I am working on around me and my supplies within easy reach. This got me thinking. How much of this stuff do I really need? Do I need 40 spools of ribbon, bins and bins of fabric scraps and doo dads that I never use or have lost interest in?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I find it seriously funny that I needed to google <b>reasons</b> for decluttering. I actually needed to give myself permission to purge the items in my sewing room that I don't need or use in order to make room for the things I truly love and want to keep in order to continue creating. Thankfully, I found many articles on decluttering. Some were about sewing and craft rooms but the ones I found the most helpful were about decluttering the basement, closets and general home environment. This one in particular really helped me. <a href="https://medium.com/the-mission/a-declutter-formula-to-help-you-throw-stuff-away-without-regret-cbcdef64ec27" target="_blank">A Declutter Formula to Help You Throw Stuff Away Without Regret</a> I am now going through every bin, nook and cranny of my sewing room and asking myself the same set of questions that Mr. Ho stated in his article: "Recency, Frequency, Acquisition Cost, Storage Cost, Retrieve Cost." In my case tt's the best formula I have ever come across as it addresses the issue of storage which is always an issue in small sewing spaces. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a list of other articles on the subject of decluttering that I found to be the most helpful, including a vlog.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://radianthomestudio.com/declutter-your-sewing-space-supplies-to-spark-creativity/" target="_blank">Declutter Your Sewing Space & Supplies to Spark Creativity</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.thelittlemushroomcap.com/10-things-you-can-do-in-10-days-to-declutter-your-sewing-space/" target="_blank">10 Things You Can Do In 10 Days to Declutter Your Sewing Space</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://adebtfreestressfreelife.com/declutter-without-feeling-guilty/" target="_blank">How to Declutter Without Feeling Guilty</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://littlehouselovelyhome.com/things-to-get-rid-of/" target="_blank">Little House Lovely Home</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQt_y4kqMQlG1id0n975DVg" target="_blank">Just Get it Done Quilts - YouTube Vlogger</a> - This Vlogger has great ideas. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully these articles and videos will help you as much as they have helped me. Let me know in the comments below. </span><br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-83388453185276229222019-03-01T21:44:00.000-08:002019-03-03T20:12:32.045-08:00INSPIRATION<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<h2>
<i><u><span style="font-size: large;">Inspiration</span></u></i></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Merriam-Webster's definitation states:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Inspiration:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">1a: a divine influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">b: the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">c: the act of influencing or suggesting opinions</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I found that the history of the word made more sense than the definition. Merriam-Webster goes on to state:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"The Inspirational History of Inspiration"</span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Inspiration has an unusual history in that its figurative sense appears to predate its literal one. It comes from the Latin inspiratus (the past participle of inspirare, “to breathe into, inspire”) and in English has had the meaning “the drawing of air into the lungs” since the middle of the 16th century. This breathing sense is still in common use among doctors, as is expiration (“the act or process of releasing air from the lungs”). However, before inspiration was used to refer to breath it had a distinctly theological meaning in English, referring to a divine influence upon a person, from a divine entity; this sense dates back to the early 14th century. The sense of inspiration often found today (“someone or something that inspires”) is considerably newer than either of these two senses, dating from the 19th century."</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">We, Fabric artists, quilters, bag makers, small project creators, all have the same thing in common. A desire to create something of beauty and worth. In order to do this, not once, but over and over again, we must be inspired. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The history of Inspiration is, for me, very close to what I feel when I am struck with an idea. I feel the breath of inspiration when I am witnessing beauty in its many forms. A live performance, be it music, dance, a play; the reading a poem, prose or a story; witnessing a life changing event. All of these things can be the spark that ignites <i>Inspiration</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some of us only need an event to move us forward. The birth of a grandchild, the graduation of a niece or nephew, an upcoming trip, to inspire us to begin the process of creating in order to meet a need. Others, the rising of the sun, or the quiet of winter's first snowfall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am not an artist. But, I am an artist. I am a musician. Classically trained. What I find ironic is I am a Visual Learner. Most would think a musician would learn differently than visually and I'm not sure why I am wired this way. I do know that I have a tremendous desire to recreate what my heart sees. Because of this I seek out ways to turn my visions into something tangible. I take classes, go to museums, read stories, browse through fibre art publications, and contemplate. I contemplate my stash, threads, embellishments and think through all of the things I could create. Eventually, I gather the courage to start a project, all the while doubting my own abilities. And doubt is our enemy. So, this year and for as far into the future as I am granted to be here I promise myself and encourage you also to never, ever doubt your ability to create beauty. Look around. The inspiration is everywhere. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I once saw a painting in a Goodwill that sparked my interest and I plan on turning it into a raw edge quilt someday:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVRB84YPwEWNK70nm-uejd7i0PX4zSeWGFCAr7mkK9TGg_WJyJmzaV__X9_C69trwcLG-NPBvS0q7ad5X2TFkRpsHBecuLxuvJLjFlOqDC1dJ8IUieAWJcB6V8KGNLPO7My-773yoi-uX/s1600/IMG_1310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVRB84YPwEWNK70nm-uejd7i0PX4zSeWGFCAr7mkK9TGg_WJyJmzaV__X9_C69trwcLG-NPBvS0q7ad5X2TFkRpsHBecuLxuvJLjFlOqDC1dJ8IUieAWJcB6V8KGNLPO7My-773yoi-uX/s320/IMG_1310.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's such a simple painting but it sparked joy because I loved the colors, the yellow flowers and orange wallpaper looked so cheerful. I want to recreate this using the medium I am familiar and comfortable with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a list of teachers, YouTube Chanels and publications that keep the embers of inspiration glowing:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/stitchesbyjulia/videos" target="_blank">Stitches by Julia</a> - She began sewing and crafting 26 years ago. She uses her sewing machine to create one of a kind wall hangings, journals, bags, and refashions clothing. I love her aesthetic and she very generously shares her ideas and her inspiration.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-el3qcAkxZUAFzElOucEaw" target="_blank">A Fate So Twisted</a> - The creator of this chanel is a wonderful artist, and a creative and passionate maker. She recently began to make longer tutorials of her projects and I am really inspired by her story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.joycehughesoriginals.com/" target="_blank">Joyce Hughes Originals</a> - I consider Joyce Hughes to be a mentor. I have taken her classes and not only are her creations works of art, she is one of the most sincere and amazing people I have ever met. If you have an opportunity to meet her and listen to her story at a trunk show, run do not walk!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999402&u=1508233&m=67907&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EArt%20Quilting%20Studio%20Magazine%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Art Quilting Studio</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999420&u=1508233&m=67907&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESew%20Somerset%20Magazine%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sew Sommerset Magazine</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=915876&u=1508233&m=67907&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EStampington%20&%20Company%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Stampington & Company</a> </span><br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-44726179292429674412019-02-28T20:30:00.001-08:002020-05-27T18:17:41.579-07:00UPDATED: A LIST OF MY FAVORITE SHOPS FOR FABRIC AND THREAD<span style="font-size: large;">Last year I posted on where I like to purchase fabric. While I always purchase from my LQS, when I purchase on line, I like to make sure that I am supporting either a brick and mortar LQS somewhere or that I am supporting a small business owner, someone who is a visionary and entrepreneur with a creative spirit. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This posting has more details and a couple new shops that I really like to support and why. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.dragonflyquiltworks.com/etsy-shop/" target="_blank">Dragonflyquiltworks</a> - Wonderful selection of modern fabric lines incuding Lotta Jansdotter, Vanessa Vargas Wilson, Carolyn Friedlander, Alison Glass and beautiful, modern blenders! The owner Lora Douglas, is also gifted designer and quilter. Her attention to detail is unmatched. She also has bag making supplies, notions and patterns. Great prices and wonderful Customer Service.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://bobbieloufabric.com/pages/our-story" target="_blank">BobbielouFabric</a> - What began as a hobby and sewing for baby showers grew into a family owned business and they have the most current, trendy, fun and modern fabrics. They have a beautiful selection of modern, bright, fun and beautiful fabric. <a href="https://bobbieloufabric.com/pages/our-story" target="_blank">BobbielouFabric</a> also has a huge selection of double gauze! I love using this fabric for Infinity scarves and receiving blankets and had no idea until I found her site that it came in so many colors and patterns. Their site is full of eye candy and you will enjoy a visit to <a href="https://bobbieloufabric.com/pages/our-story" target="_blank">BobbielouFabric</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.stashfabrics.com/" target="_blank">Stash Fabrics</a> - This is a favorite of Sara Lawson of <a href="https://sewsweetness.com/" target="_blank">Sew Sweetness</a>. I can definitely see why. They offer a huge collection of modern fabrics by popular designers as well as lesser known but just as talented designers. This is a family owned business. Another reason to check out <a href="https://www.stashfabrics.com/" target="_blank">Stash Fabrics</a> are the free patterns and the ability to pre-order the newest lines. I have found some really difficult to find fabrics here as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://greenfairyquilts.com/" target="_blank">Green Fairy Quilts</a> - A wonderful Story. This on-line shop offers mainly Moda pre-cuts but also yardage, patterns, notions, supplies and THREAD. Beautiful, lovely, yummy thread! And the prices are all discounted. Sometimes up to 40% They carry Aurifil and every Superior Thread made. Here is the "wonderful story" part. Once a year Clint of Green Fairy Quilts travels to Romania to take donated quilts to orphans, and uses the donated money to buy food, school supplies, clothing, toys etc. for those in need. All of this is funded by their on-line quilt shop. You can also add $1 to your order and all orders ship for free if they are at least $40. Shop and Give. It's really a win, win. You can learn more about their Romania Mission by reading their story at <a href="https://greenfairyquilts.com/" target="_blank">Green Fairy Quilts</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/" target="_blank">Quilt Addicts Annonymous</a> - I found this on-line fabric store when I came across a YouTube tutorial for paperpiecing by the owner, Stephanie Soebbing. She also just published her first book entitled <i><a href="https://shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/simple-quilts-for-the-modern-home-available-for-pre-order/" target="_blank">Simple Quilts</a>. </i>It is full of amazing quilts that range in order of easiest to most difficult. Although the title implies simple, they are all interesting and unique. One of the things that may set this resource aside from others is her Sit and Sew Radio Podcasts. Instead of watching a video while sewing, you can listen to interviews with Sewlebrities. It reminds me of my Dad listening to the Dodger Baseball game while working on an engine in the garage. Of course she also has a YouTube chanel, Blog, Free stuff and she is very generous as well, giving away a free pattern with on-line tutorial when you purchase her monthly <a href="https://www.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/author/stephanie-soebbing/" target="_blank">Stash Club</a> called <a href="https://www.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/author/stephanie-soebbing/" target="_blank">Stashin' with Stephanie</a>. Included with this is a $10 off coupon of any purchase of $20 or more... every month. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, that's all the new stuff I have for now. I hope you find this informative and I hope you will post in the comments if you tried any of the resources I wrote about and your thoughts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until then, keep calm and quilt on.</span><br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-5115171929456153582019-02-24T19:40:00.002-08:002019-03-03T19:59:41.671-08:00THE WAND CHOOSES THE WIZARD, AND THE MACHINE CHOOSES THE THREAD<span style="font-size: large;">Its true. In the Wizarding world, a wand will choose it's wizarding mate. After all, it's usually a lifetime commitment. As for Sewing and Embroidery machines... well, it's much the same. Sure, machines will tolerate some fussy threads like metallic or shimmer threads but it will definitely let you know it's annoyed. A friend recently told me that when using metalic thread she will place it on a spool belonging to an adjacent machine sitting a few feet away. Using that spool holder she wil then bring it over to her machine and thread it. This gives it time to unwind and "relax". Honestly? Yes. It makes sense. It's kind of like when the dentist hides the needle that he or she is about to stab into your gum! Before you know it, you get a shot and begin to numb up and drool.</span><br />
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<a class="irc_mil i3597" data-noload="" data-ved="2ahUKEwih5pjBiMngAhVEUt8KHRacCuQQjRx6BAgBEAU" href="https://www.babylock.com/machines/sewing/journey" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;focus:irc.rl" rel="noopener" style="border: 0px; color: #660099; cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; text-align: center; text-decoration: none;" tabindex="0" target="_blank"><img alt="Image result for babylock Journey" class="irc_mi" height="179" src="https://img.babylock.com/fit_stretch,b_rgb:ffffff,c_lpad,dpr_auto,f_auto,w_700,h_394/28ce0eaa-e477-4e70-b503-bd427ad366f3.png" style="-webkit-background-size: 21px; background-color: white; background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)), -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.65098) 0px 5px 35px; margin-top: 18px;" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many machine manufactures recommend thread brands. Bernina recommends Mettler. Viking Husqvarna recommends Gutterman for sewing and Robison-Anton and Sulky for Embroidery. Babylock recommends Madeira. I own a Babylock Journey, Sewing and Embroidery machine. At this time I use Aurifil 50 and 40 wt., Superior Threads Masterpiece 50 wt. and Mettler 50 wt. for sewing. For Embroidery... so far, it likes Isocord, and BFC. I still haven't tried the recommended thread, Madeira, but I plan to in the near future. One thread my machine doesn't like is Robison-Anton. It's really a beautiful thread though and my friend, Pat from Twisted Stitchers Retreat Center uses it exclusively in in Elna. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You all know what I mean by "my machine doesn't like it." It means it literally has a little fit when you try to sneak in that beautiful color of thread that you cannot find in it's preferred brand or it was too pricy so you found a less expensive one and SHAZAM!!! The thread shreads or breaks, bells start ringing, buzzers go off and lights begin to flicker. Your machine is really upset now. You have to unplug it, maybe erase its memory of the whole incident and when you turn it back on, act like nothing happened and you're still best friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, let's talk about thread for Sewing, Bag making, Quilting and Embroidery. I'll share what I know to be true for me and I invite you to share in the comments what threads you have tried and your results.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a> </i>- Well, who doesn't like <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a>?</i> It's lovely. Beautifully and expertly crafted, practically lint free. What I find interesting about <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a></i> is that they are double ply, not triple ply like most of the threads that I've used or researched. The stitching is delicate, yet very strong because of the process <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a> </i><span style="font-weight: bold;">c</span>ompletes with the production of it's brand. I use it for quilting, general sewing and ... Yes, bag making. It isn't as strong as polyester yet I have never had an issue with strength and love the results. You really need to explore their website. <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a> </i><span style="font-weight: bold;">There you will find information on their threads, where to find it, FREE projects AND links to the Aurifil artist Blogs! </span>It's pricy but good deals can be found on massdrop and craftsy. Please share where you find a good deal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.madeirausa.com/" target="_blank">Madeira</a><b> - </b>As I stated, I haven't really tried a lot of <a href="https://www.madeirausa.com/" target="_blank">Madeira</a> I do know that they make several types, including serging thread. The serging spools are tall and slender opposed to shorter and wider such as Signture or Maxi-Lock. In addition they make the following for embroidery: </span><br />
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<a class="irc_mil i3597" data-noload="" data-ved="2ahUKEwjpns3i3NXgAhVimuAKHV8DDX4QjRx6BAgBEAU" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/225127189/madeira-polyneon-40-polyester-thread" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;focus:irc.rl" rel="noopener" style="border: 0px; clear: right; color: #660099; cursor: pointer; float: right; font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration: none;" tabindex="0" target="_blank"><img alt="Image result for madeira thread" class="irc_mi" data-iml="1551057852526" height="248" src="https://i.etsystatic.com/6574160/r/il/8c07f7/737576367/il_570xN.737576367_pqo2.jpg" style="-webkit-background-size: 21px; background-color: white; background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)), -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.65098) 0px 5px 35px; margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Classic Rayon - Lustrous finish</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Polyneon - Shiny</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Frosted Matt - Matte</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Metallic - Smooth Metallic</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Supertwist - Twisted Metallic</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Burmilana - Wool Blend</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Burmilana Co - Cotton Blend</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Luna - Glow in the Dark</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Monolon - Monofilament</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fire Fighter - Flame Resistant</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Color Cards - Thread Charts</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have used <a href="https://www.madeirausa.com/" target="_blank">Madeira</a> polyester thread specifically created for T-Shirt embroidery. It worked well in my machine and the stitching was lovely. They have many, many colors and come in a variety of spool sizes so you're not having to purchase a large spool of a special color for smaller projects.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://rnk-floriani.com/products/Floriani-Thread/" target="_blank">Floriani</a> - </i>High end threads for quilting and embroidery plus supplies. Their site also has software support and an on-line learning center including tutorials and projects and if your LQS sells Floriani ask them when Floriani will be offering a class. It's at the top of the price range but sometimes you have to spend a little more to get just the right color. I have used both embroidery and quilting threads by <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://rnk-floriani.com/products/Floriani-Thread/" target="_blank">Floriani</a></i> and even though the quality is amazing and my machine loves the thread, I still favor <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.aurifil.com/" target="_blank">Aurifil</a>,</i> Signature Masterpiece, Isocord, and BFC. I am accustomed to and prefer the softer, finer texture of those threads. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a> - </i>I really like <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a></i> AND it is conveniently available at Joanns and the Viking Gallery located inside most Joanns. Both Joann Fabrics and Viking Galleries offer discounts and coupons which can make <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a> </i> very affordable. Don't forget that Sulky also makes a line of embroidery stabilizers that when purchaed with a Joann coupon make it one of the most affordable on the market. In addition, Sulky also has Education and Events, Inspiration, Resources and Free Projects on their website, <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a></i>. In fact, <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a></i> also offers a teaching certification course which could be the catalyst you need to boost your own dreams of becoming an educator in the textile world. My favorite <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=812224&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20of%20America,%20Inc.%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky</a> </i> products are <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=824742&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20Cotton%20Thread%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky 30 wt. Blendables </a>which are Beautifully variegated colors that I love using for top stitching, decorative stitching and zig zag on top and in bobbin and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=820365&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ESulky%20Sticky%20+%20Stabilizer%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Sulky Sticky</a> which is perfect when you would prefer to float your embroidery fabric rather than hoop it. You really need to check out their site because there is so much information and inspiration. You will also find currated threads from sewlebrities such as Amy Barickman of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=864782&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EAmy%20Barickman%20Designer%20Boutique%20-%20All%20Things%20Amy%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Indygo Junction</a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=825509&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3ECrafty%20Gemini%20Favorites%20-%20%2012%20Wt.%20Cotton%20Petites%20Collection%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">The Crafty Gemini</a>, including sets to accompany <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=820399&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EFrond%20Fabrics%20Designer%20Thread%20Collections%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Frond</a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1326493&u=1508233&m=63058&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EScout%20Embroidery%20Collection%20by%20Cotton%20+%20Steel%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Cotton and Steel</a> fabric lines. You won't be disappointed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/" target="_blank">Superior Threads</a></i> A beloved brand of many, I found Masterpiece by accident and fell head over scissors in love! It sews and quilts so smoothly, like butter! Also, <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/" target="_blank">Superior Threads</a> </i>has notions, tools, stabilizers, needles, clubs and EDUCATION! My favorite <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.superiorthreads.com/" target="_blank">Superior Threads</a> </i>Special is the "Try Me" special. Sometimes they have it at a ridiculously low price. The only catch is you cannot usually pick the color. However, I ordered twice and each time I received Beautiful, yummy colors. I wanted to try the silk thread, serger thread, Razzle Dazzle and their Metallic thread for serging and thread painting. I received 10 spools, full size, for around $35. And all of the colors were beautiful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=761208&u=1508233&m=60894&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EConnecting%20Threads%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Connecting Threads</a></i> This thread is one of the MOST affordable threads on the market, and its a very good quality. It is a little linty but honestly, every thread has lint. Many quilters and bag makers use it and have wonderful success. My machines like it very much. It is three ply and too thick for my piecing aesthetic, however I love using it for bag making, miscellaneous projects, top stitching and decorative stitching. <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=761208&u=1508233&m=60894&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EConnecting%20Threads%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Connecting Threads</a></i> also caries fabric, precuts, their own brand and other famous quilting cottons, tools, books, patterns, downloads, etc. They are a virtual on-line LQS! The sets are an amazing value and first time shoppers receive a 15% discount!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://bfc-creations/" target="_blank">BFC-Creations</a> - </i>This is a really unique machine embroidery design site. While talking to the owner I learned that she and her son created the business, digitzing the designs and in the midst of this their main thread distributor stopped making the brand they recommended... so they created a line of thread that they could stand behind. I bought a set to accompany an original embroidery design I purchased and I love it. My machine does too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you have enjoyed my thread conversation. It's certainly not even close to being over... so many more to talk about. Please share your own thread experiences in the comments and remember... stay calm and sew on.</span>Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-63326342534641092462019-01-04T21:37:00.002-08:002019-01-04T21:37:41.955-08:00UPDATE ON "WAITING FOR THE RIGHT PROJECT"It's Finished! Actually, I finished it months ago... but a lot transpired between then and now. I am extremely happy with the outcome, the tutorial was amazing and made the entire project so much easier. I know I will make a few more. Here is a picture of the finished result:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9V9cunL2Q4H5DNqoBcPnQKyCAailLVBJzZWaM-Y-BRbhrUtQHxF_jvXbvWtJ8kB4tUHvLn1DHtPtgXX3TRW_sZm5sJesAz__XWR9kdJNe0jfBVn3k7R87COgOy-YI_epkzitn9Kfem56v/s1600/IMG_4609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9V9cunL2Q4H5DNqoBcPnQKyCAailLVBJzZWaM-Y-BRbhrUtQHxF_jvXbvWtJ8kB4tUHvLn1DHtPtgXX3TRW_sZm5sJesAz__XWR9kdJNe0jfBVn3k7R87COgOy-YI_epkzitn9Kfem56v/s320/IMG_4609.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is really big and fits so much stuff</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieK9Awz3DlHVKzFDeiSTmc5VWOkdH9NmGuqyuXA1pbwjWT-PhvI3PYN5VtXdRdAQENTLxhiIhT4yBov2aDzfvf6UuN5FEZne7s8KlTkGdcbZFU2sSgYJpHi9OqJH0gFa0EOecPLCwDsJvU/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieK9Awz3DlHVKzFDeiSTmc5VWOkdH9NmGuqyuXA1pbwjWT-PhvI3PYN5VtXdRdAQENTLxhiIhT4yBov2aDzfvf6UuN5FEZne7s8KlTkGdcbZFU2sSgYJpHi9OqJH0gFa0EOecPLCwDsJvU/s320/IMG_4610.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2p2cqpurCUxCGARyTwpc8GV0YuQBF2au4jakH5719ivvZTJX8JRFDsjygFhskFKRJFY1QVhasYAIz_l1VZUJjWBLLiUJZ1nP_sQXvcubM534pmNAK-99-3DEPnJM4FKEEPbyD6lm64oZ/s1600/IMG_4612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2p2cqpurCUxCGARyTwpc8GV0YuQBF2au4jakH5719ivvZTJX8JRFDsjygFhskFKRJFY1QVhasYAIz_l1VZUJjWBLLiUJZ1nP_sQXvcubM534pmNAK-99-3DEPnJM4FKEEPbyD6lm64oZ/s320/IMG_4612.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I really love finishing projects. As Angela Walters says, "Finished is better than Perfect." Of course I made a few mistakes... well, design changes. I would have to say that the only thing I am not really happy about is my binding abilities, but honestly, if anyone wants to look that closely, have at it! </div>
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After finishing this project I began working furiously on the items I made for my wedding guests. Oh, did I mention I got married in June? Well, it was an epic time in New Orleans. A lovely June wedding ceremony on the front porch of the Sully Mansion and a late supper at Muriels at Jackson Square. Just family and a few close friends. I highly recommend eloping in NOLA with a few loved ones by your side. The atmosphere is festive, the food amazing and there is no better party on earth than in NOLA! The Dirty Martinis are pretty amazing too!</div>
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Here are some pictures of the welcome totes I made for my guests:</div>
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I used an applique embroidery pattern from Designs by JuJu and the totes are a basic pattern. In fact, I didn't use a pattern... just winged it. </div>
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In the coming weeks I have several posts coming. I'll be talking about Thread, Free Motion Quilting, Inspiration for quilting and sharing about a lovely retreat I attended in the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. Until then, keep calm and sew on!</div>
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-77419651158855507972018-04-02T20:27:00.001-07:002018-04-02T20:27:38.803-07:00WAITING FOR THE RIGHT PROJECTGood Wonderful Easter Monday everyone and happy last day of my Spring Break. Baltimore County Schools has taken away all of the traditional week of Spring Break and allowed us only Good Friday and Easter Monday now. So, I made the best of it and have posted several things on my blog and have been working on several projects. <br />
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Last year when Vanessa Vargas Wilson aka The Crafty Gemini, released her second line of fabric I scooped up the entire line. It is a collection of black and white prints which can coordinate together or with other colors or just a lovely black and white project. Well, as I said I purchased it last year... and waited... and .... waited... for the right project. Have any of you done this? I wish I were one of those quilters (and I don't think there are many of them) that have a project in mind and purchase the fabric, then make the project. But I'm not so instaed, I purchase fabric that I love and pet it for a while as I wait for the inspiration, while also saying to myself, "I know I will use this." <br />
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I love black and white! I knew I would use it. But, I also didn't want to just use it willy nilly and then not have enough for something that really inspired me. Well, lightening struck... in the form of "The All Rolled Up Bag" Tutorial from ........... Vanessa Vargas Wilson! The pattern is written by one of The Crafty Gemini's Friends in the Industry, <u style="font-weight: bold;">Color Me Quilted</u>, and Vanessa chose it for part of her Organizer Club. It's really a win, win. We learn from Vanessa while making a wonderful product developed by another great sewist! Plus we get all of the amazing Crafty Gemini Tricks and Tips.<br />
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Here is a picture of the fabric choices. <br />
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The two black and white selections are from her line and now that I have finally decided on the combination I will make ever project in the Organizer Club out of her fabric with a pop of color (proably pink, another favorite color). I am super excited because it is the first time I will be making a series of things that coordinate together. </div>
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<a class="irc_mil i3597 icmsfIzJ_anE-zixyDjKkw5M" data-noload="" data-ved="2ahUKEwic877Mkp3aAhVFc98KHRnQDa8QjRx6BAgAEAU" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/76701999884001059/" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk" rel="noopener" style="border: 0px; color: #660099; cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;" tabindex="0" target="_blank"><img alt="Image result for The All Rolled Up Tote" class="irc_mi" height="431" src="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/da/68/2b/da682b33ec824ab3cc416eb493f252bd.jpg" style="-webkit-background-size: 21px; background-color: white; background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)), -webkit-linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.65098) 0px 5px 35px; margin-top: 0px;" width="431" /></a></div>
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It measures 15 " across, has four pockets and two removeable zipper pouches, plus a pocket in the bottom to hold a sizeable ruler! The one in the above picture was made by the pattern writer. The Crafty Gemini also has pictures of her own on her website, <a href="https://craftygeminiclubs.com/" target="_blank">The Crafty Gemini Clubs</a>. </div>
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I hope you are inspired to get to work on something special and use that beautiful fabric that's been waiting for you to turn it into something amazing. If you can't think of anything, hop over to <a href="https://craftygeminiclubs.com/" target="_blank">The Crafty Gemini Clubs</a> and one of her four clubs. You'll be so busy you may have to go fabric shopping again!</div>
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Please post any pictures of your work in the comments below or on my facebook page, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintagekindagirl/" target="_blank">Vintagekindagirl</a>. </div>
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Happy Sewing!</div>
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-72912873808639255502018-04-01T13:31:00.003-07:002018-04-01T13:31:57.793-07:00MY FAVORITE MACHINE EMBROIDERY SITESHello Amazing quilters, sewists, Machine Embroiders and Fabric artists! And Happy Easter. As I begin to write this post a thought crossed my mind. And I actually remember what it was! The whole reason I started writing this blog was because I felt like I was on an incredible journey and I wanted to share my experiences with likeminded people. People who may or may not have the time they need to do the research, read reviews, shop around, or needed a little nudge in a direction to help them on their own journey. <br />
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When I first began sewing and quilting, it was all I could talk about. Diane, my partner, was patient, but at a certain point she said to me "do you think you might be obsessing on quilting." Wait... What? Of course not. Well... maybe a little. But truly, I think I had exhausted the only ear I had at the time. Remember, I found sewing and quilting while temporarily living in Ohio during a very difficult time in our lives. We both were living through our own personal nightmares and managed to grow closer through it all. Sewing and quilting saved my sanity and it wasn't until we moved back to Baltimore that Diane's began to feel like she was returning to normal. <br />
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With all of this said, I realize that we are all on a journey. Sometimes it moves fast, somestimes slow, sometimes it feels like a merry-go-round and othertimes like a rollercoaster. The important thing to remember is that the journey never ends. <br />
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This brings me to the gratitude I have for being able to share my adventures. The latest adventure was the gifting of my Bernina to my Sister-in-law to make room for my new Sewing and Embroidery Machine, the Baby Lock Journey! The Journey. I never really thought about the name until this moment when I began writing this blog about Embroidery sites. There really are no accidents in life.<br />
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Now, since I am now the proud owner of a sewing AND embroidery machine it makes sense that I would now peruse machine embroidery sites just as much as I do fabric and pattern sites. If only our days were 36 hours long and not just 24 hours. So many sites, so little time.<br />
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While searching and typing phrases into Google I happened upon a blog called <a href="http://lauriesplace.net/" target="_blank">Laurie's Place</a>. In her blog I found The List! She had done all of the research. The list is called Laurie's Giant List of Sites for Machine Embroidery. It has probably 100 sites and I looked at every single one. Whew!<br />
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Now, before I list my personal favorites, I encourage you to look at her list for yourself because your taste may differ from mine as we are all unique. But to give you an idea of what I look for in Machine Embroidery Designs I will list my aesthetic style:<br />
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<li>Shabby Chic</li>
<li>Rustic</li>
<li>Artistic</li>
<li>Fluid</li>
<li>Watercolor</li>
<li>Whimsical</li>
<li>Unique</li>
<li>Actual Drawings</li>
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<a href="https://www.designsbyjuju.com/" target="_blank">Designs by JuJu</a> With all of this said, I do have one Embroidery site that surprised me. It has all of the usual sayings, quotes, appliqué, children's designs, etc., however, when I saw the sale they were having, which runs through April 2, I visited several times and ultimately purchased 60 sets!!! Yes, 60 sets! Why, because if you purchased 15 or more sets the prices was reduced to $1.00 per set in order to celeberate their 14 years in business. Well I celebrated right along with them. The company is <a href="https://www.designsbyjuju.com/" target="_blank">Designs by JuJu</a> and I hope you will check it out before you finish reading because the sale is over April 2. Now, if you miss the sale, the sets are so reasonably priced you will still find that you are saving money. And, if you wonder why I purchased over 60 sets, I believe in planning ahead. Upcoming baby showers, birthdays, weddings, parties, etc.</div>
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<a href="http://www.valleyofembroidery.com/" target="_blank">Valley of Embroidery</a> At first site it looks a little bare by comparison to other sites, but don't be fooled. They have some of the most interesting files I've found. For instance, a lace bowl made from your own thread scraps! It's Beautiful! It's listed under Lace/Recycling Scraps. They have bracelets, earrings, necklaces, cuffs and also bowls. They also have Star Wars Key Fobs! It's one of the more unique sites and definitely worth a look. Even if you do not believe in the Force.</div>
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<a href="http://www.emblibrary.com/EL/New.aspx" target="_blank">Embroidery Library</a> Releases new designs every week based on a theme. This week the theme is Enchanted Storybook. Suffice it to say that it fulfills my Whimsical aesthetic criteria. The sale prices for individual designs is always $1.39. No, that isn't a mistake. One Dollar and Thirty-Nine Cents per design! It's a huge bargain and I usually purchase something every week. Sometimes I purchase the same design in every size so I can use it on multiple projects. In addition to their amazing weekly release of new designs at amazing pricing, they have multiple categories and styles and post tutorials on their web site AND Youtube! Just search for Embroidery Library. </div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanthreads.com/" target="_blank">Urban Threads</a> is a partner to Embroidery Library and sometimes they do tutorials together. For instance they have a great tutorial on double sided Organza Embroidery that makes a mobile hanging. Really elegant and beautiful. Also, they release new designs weekly as well and have then priced at 50% off regular price. As the name of the site would infer, they have really cutting edge designs. Recently they released ultra-violet designs and last month an entire release based on Alice in Wonderland meets Steampunk. Under design categories they list Styles and Sub-Cultures! Not your Gramma's Machine Embroidery Site... that is for sure. I love it! Circus & Carnival, Gothic & Dark, Literary & Fairytales, Medieval & Rennaissance, Retro & Rockabilly, Steampunk & Victorian, and World Mythology. I mean, really, who list sub-cultures? I love this site!<br />
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<a href="https://sewswell.com/about-us/" target="_blank">Sew Swell Designs</a> is a group of artists from around the world who are employed by Sew Swell Designs. All of their artwork is digitized in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They have a projects page and also projects by customer page. In addition they offer free designs! Many specialty categories, such as wine country and Photo Booth Props! I'm definitely downloading those for an upcoming family reunion!<br />
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<b><u>MACHINE EMBROIDRY WEB-MALLS</u></b><br />
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The next group of Machine Embroidery sites are all located within on-line Machine Embroidery Web-Malls. I would imagine that the Web-malls manage the site and take a small percentage of the sales in order for the embroidery digitizers to focus on what they do best. So, that's kind of a win win for everyone. </div>
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The first site is called <a href="http://www.oregonpatchworks.com/" target="_blank">Oregon Patchworks</a> and when you type what you're looking for into their search engine a bunch of different designs pop up meeting your criteria but sold by different digitizers. From this list I have a few favorites:<br />
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The second site is <a href="http://www.oregonpatchworks.com/collections.php?id=EAD" target="_blank">Enchanting Designs</a> and they have really unique and beautiful designs for large scale items such as pillows and totes. In fact they have several of their own tote/embroidery designs and patterns for sale on their site. Things like an Italian Balcony scene on a pillow or a parisian widow and bicycle Tote bag. They also have some beautiful 3-D designs for pillows and totes. You wont be disappointed.<br />
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<a href="http://www.oregonpatchworks.com/collections.php?id=AVT" target="_blank">A Vintage Touch</a> has really pretty vintage and Victorian era designs. My favorites are definitely in the Victorian Dreams collections. Not steampunk but sweet with a little edge. <br />
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<span id="goog_1331248506"></span><span id="goog_1331248507"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>The second Web-Mall is <a href="https://www.secretsof.com/" target="_blank">Secrets of Embroidery</a> and here are two of my favorites from this site.<br />
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<a href="https://www.secretsof.com/machine-embroidery/designs/Stitch-Soup" target="_blank">Stitch Soup</a> has a nice selection of cute and whimsical designs, such as animal bags, ITH baskets, snap tags, greeting cards, luminaries, Forest Gnomes, etc. Very Unique and great gift making ideas.<br />
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<a href="https://www.secretsof.com/machine-embroidery/designs/A-Stitch-and-a-Half" target="_blank">A Stitch and a Half</a> has a wonderful and unique collection. Useful items made beautiful. Also 3-D flowers, totes, babushka boxes. I haven't purchased anything yet, but I am filling up my basket and saving it for a big haul.<br />
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<b><u>TRULY UNIQUE, ARTIST OWNED SITES</u></b><br />
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You know I have a passion for purchasing from artisans as much as possible. Here are a few of my favorite artist owned Machine Embroidery sites:<br />
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<a href="https://bfc-creations.com/about-bfc.html" target="_blank">BFC Creations</a> In addition to truly beautiful and unique designs, BFC has a line of <u>their own embroidery threads</u> and if you like them you should definitely check out their thread club. The link I provided takes you to their inspirational story and also ends with pictures of two of the most important employees; Duma and Bronko Billy. Look over the entire site because they have a lot of information, sales and a new blog. Their designs are original and artist inspired. They have designs that when pieced together create a huge wall hanging. I love their stained glass collection. The colors are saturated and vibrant. One of a kind. <br />
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<a href="https://www.picturestitch.co.uk/" target="_blank">Picture Stitch Unique Embroidery Designs</a>. The owner/artist, has digitized her own drawings and organized them into categories on her website. They remind me of willow statues which are delicate and sweet. I love how she celebrates all aspects of life through her drawing and it's very special to stitch out a truly original piece of art on your embroidery machine. The pieces are frameable and look like real drawings. Of couse you can make them uniquely yours by changing thread colors and maybe even adding shimmery or decorative thread. She also has a blog and a purchasing club. If you end up really liking her designs you might want to check out the club pricing.<br />
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I encourage you to check these sites and please post any pictures of your work. We all love to ooo and aww over each other's creations as it also inspires and motivates us. In addition, if you come across other truly unique sites please share with us. <br />
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I hope you found this read informative, interesting and entertaining. Please share my blog with your friends. The more the merrier.<br />
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Happy Stitching.<br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-83926476915053015922018-03-30T17:57:00.000-07:002018-03-31T16:50:20.745-07:00WHERE DO YOU PURCHASE FABRIC?Its a question all quilters and fabric artists ask each other. Why? Well, I for one, might admire another artist's work and fabric selection, so naturally I want to know where they find their fabric. Also, I find that when we cannot find what we want at our Local Quilt Shop (LQS) we'll go online and shop around. Personally, I like to make sure that when I DO shop on line, that I am supporting either a brick and mortar LQS somewhere or that I am supporting a business run by a minority business owner and not a corporation. Yes, it is wonderful to get discounts. Let's face it, we all have to make our money stretch and being fabric lovers and quilting nuts, we all know it isn't cheap. However, whenever I purchase from a big box or corporation, I am supporting stockholders and not a visionary and entrepreneur with a creative spirit. To this end I also feel that supporting <u><b>any</b></u> LQS also supports freedom of expression. <br />
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That's quite a statement I know, but here is the thing. I will admit that I have supported a "daily deal" and still check out the 50% to 60% off coupons for expensive notions and embroidery stabilizers. But when it comes to quality fabric, interesting and difficult to find patterns, cool, gotta have it notions, specialty trims and my favorite threads, I have list of favs that I always make sure to support first. So, yes, I do use a coupon, and shop a daily deal, but not until I have exhausted my LQS, in my area and on line. I also keep a list of shops I have visited out of State just in the off chance they might have something or know where to find it. And just like Pinterest, Facebook and Youtube, every LQS has a unique eye for construction and design. It's so fun to visit LQS when I travel because I am always filled with ideas! <br />
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For instance, when I was visiting my father and step mom in California last year I found an adoreable shop called <a href="http://www.quiltnthings.com/">QuiltnThings</a> in Montrose, California. That is a sweet little community in the foothills above Glendale, California. They had a lot of vintage/modern fabrics, trims, and bag making supplies. Nearly every kit they sold had a beautifully crafted sample on display and while I was there I saw the most beautiful fabric collage pieces and met the amazing artist, Mary Ellen Sakai. She also teaches classes there. If you're ever in Southern California, you won't regret a visit. Plus, there are some really nice cafes and restaurants in the area. <br />
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<b><u>So here is my list:</u></b><br />
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<b><u>My Local Quilt Shop</u>: </b>For fabrics and my Baby Lock Dealer is <a href="https://glorybeessewingcenter.com/">Glory Bees Sewing Center</a> in Falston, Maryland. They're also a Bernina and Janome dealer, which made it very easy for me to compare the three machines before deciding on my BabyLock Journey. They carry traditional to modern fabrics and everything in between. Glory Bees also offers quilting services and many classes and clubs as well. Sewing, Serging and Embroidery clubs are free to those who purchased their machines there and $25.00 for everyone else, which is a bargain. They also carry a wide selection of embroidery and sewing threads including, Robison-Anton, Signature, Maxi-lock, Wonderfil, and Aurifil. They have patterns, trims, batting, interfacing, you name it. Plus, the owner and staff are really nice, fun and encouraging. <br />
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<b><u>When shopping </u><u>on Etsy</u>:</b><br />
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Etsy Shops - Dragonflyquiltworks. Wonderful selection of modern fabric lines incuding Lotta Jansdotter, Vanessa Vargas Wilson, Carolyn Friedlander, and amazing modern blenders! The owner Lora Douglas is also an amazing quilter and fabric artist. Her attention to detail is unbelieveable. She also has bag making supplies, notions and patterns. Great prices and wonderful Customer Service. <br />
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I've also had good luck with BobbielouFabric, Needleinafabricstash and stitchstashdiva for fabrics that were not available in LQS any longer. <br />
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Also give CherylLynchQuilts a look. She creates a line of Mosaic Fabric Patterns, has her own Curvalicious template and is a quilting instructor at Quilt Shows and for retreats.<br />
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<b><u>Unique Fabric Online from the Creator</u>:</b><br />
<b><br /><u>Loralie Fabrics</u>: </b>If you are looking for something really unique and quirky, colorful and simply fun, then you have to take a look at Loralie Fabrics. Her Fabrics make me smile from the inside out. There are so many ways to use them. Quilts, bags, small personal items, apron, even clothing! Why not.<br />
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<b><u>Out of State LQS</u>:</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>The Confident Stitch</u>: </b>In addition to Quiltnthings, I am affiliated with The Confident Stitch a LQS in Missoula, Montana. I plan on shopping there today or tomorrow because they are having a 25% off all quilting cotton sale AND there is no sale tax in Montana! Win Win! Why am I affiliated with a LQS in Montana you ask? Well, for one, they have fabric I haven't found anywhere else, on line or in person. For instance, take a look at The Confident Stitch quilting fabric choices. In addition to all of the top brand names The Confident Stitch has a beautiful selection of Aboriginal prints and brands I don't see often like:<br />
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<b>FROND Medusa Quilting Cotton in Beet Zylem & Phloem </b><a href="https://account.shareasale.com/a-getproductlink.cfm?productId=721442131" style="color: #0065a3; font-family: GoogleOpenSans, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="pImage" src="https://www.theconfidentstitch.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/t/h/thumb_24_226.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-height: 100px; max-width: 100px; width: auto;" /></a><br />
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AMY BUTLER Forest Friends Quilting Cotton in Midnight <span id="goog_1337187441"></span><span id="goog_1337187442"></span><a href="https://account.shareasale.com/a-getproductlink.cfm?productId=721441686" style="color: #0065a3; font-family: GoogleOpenSans, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="pImage" src="https://www.theconfidentstitch.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/t/h/thumb_31_25.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-height: 100px; max-width: 100px; width: auto;" /></a><br />
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and one of my new favorites<br />
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<b> BRANDON MABLY Baubles </b><a href="https://account.shareasale.com/a-getproductlink.cfm?productId=721441840" style="color: #0065a3; font-family: GoogleOpenSans, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="pImage" src="https://www.theconfidentstitch.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/t/h/thumb_30_23.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-height: 100px; max-width: 100px; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://account.shareasale.com/a-getproductlink.cfm?productId=721441843" style="color: #0065a3; font-family: GoogleOpenSans, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="pImage" src="https://www.theconfidentstitch.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/t/h/thumb_30_29.jpg" style="border: 0px; height: auto; max-height: 100px; max-width: 100px; width: auto;" /></a><br />
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Brandon Mably is Kaffe Fasset's partner and Studio Manager, and obviously a gifted designer himself!<br />
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Another reason I shop there is the shop is an actual brick and motar LQS and is owned by a woman, (underrepresented in the business world). The "no sales tax in Montana" is the icing on top.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Jordan Fabrics</u><span style="font-weight: bold;">:</span> Matt and Donna Jordan have been handcutting fabric in the United States for over 30 years. Their story is listed on their web site and it is fascinating... at least for quilters. They sell hand cut log cabin quilt kits and others, have a huge selection of fabric, and have wonderful tutorials on YouTube, mentioned in another blog. They began at the age of 18 and 19 and have stayed loyal to the business ever since. It is truly a family business, all four of their kids are involved. They are based in Grants Pass, Oregon and if I am not mistaken, there is no sales tax!<br />
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So, my fabric darlings, head on out to your LQS, in town, across town or find a great one on line and support our passion and artistic adventures by supporting them as well.<br />
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Happy Creating!<br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-86107294776907449762018-03-26T20:31:00.001-07:002018-03-30T22:11:44.644-07:00UPDATED - Online Learning for Busy Sewists, Bag Makers and QuiltersUpdated May, 2017 Post: <br />
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I am a full-time Vocal General Music Teacher. When I am able to get to a live sewing or quilting class it is usually in the evening or over the weekend and I am either 1. exhausted or 2. trying to carve out family time. It is very nearly impossible unless it is over the summer and even then it can be hectic with vacation and visiting family. The Internet has literally changed my creative life and enriched my learning opportunities. It began with one of The Crafty Gemini's early tutorials on making a pillowcase with french seams and I never turned back. Two summers ago, I took a 3 day class on making a wall hanging. It was spread out over 3 weeks and that meant I had to drag my sewing machine once a week for three weeks to the LQS. I don't know about you, but a three week committment? I actually only made two of the classes for 2 reasons: 1. I had a long standing engagement on one of the days we were to meet and 2. The teacher, albeit very talented, did not know how to convey the instructions. It was a big disappointment and that unfinished project still sits in a box marked "to do" in my sewing hollow. As I write this I am itching to dig it out and get to work on it. To be honest, one of the techniques that the instructor made us all feel like we were most likely incapable of performing was one I learned watching a YouTube tutorial... In a foreign language. I think I make my point.<br />
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After watching amazing tutorials by Vanessa Vargas Wilson I found out she was starting the Crafty Gemini Quilt Club. It was an Online Quilting Club which provided weekly tips, monthly swaps, interviews with industry leaders, monthly giveaways and a monthly project designed by the Crafty Gemini herself! In a way it became the Quilt Guild I have always wanted to join. The club is now closed, however, I still have access to all of the patterns, tips and interviews. Even more important are all of the amazing friends I made. We have a Facebook group where we still post our creations, share our stories and keep the fire of Sewing Sisterhood alive, (and a few brothers too!) Now the Crafty Gemini has became a household brand. Vanessa has designed two lines of fabric for Timeless Treasures, has two amazing Ruler/Templates for 5 and 10 inch pre-cuts for which she has posted project tutorials on her blog, http://craftygemini.com and some free tutorials on YouTube. In addition to this she has two Bag-of-the-Month clubs, a Wallet of-the-month club and now an Organizer of the Month Club. Vanessa designs all of the patterns or collaborates with the pattern designer, creates video lessons, provides kits for sale that include everything but your chosen fabric, with a discount! She has her own line of thread through Sulky who also put together a great kit to accompany her Pinnacle Table Runner which you can find at Sulky under Crafty Gemini Collection. <br />
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And....... if you're ever in Gainesville, Florida, check out her new sewing studio, The Sewing Coop, where she teaches sewing, quilting and crafting, in person! Sewing machines are provided if you don't have one or cannot bring yours. Also available will be her fabric line, notions and supplies are available to purchase so no need to worry if you forgot something. It's a great way to get your sewing fix if you happen to be passing through or worth a trip if you want to learn from a wonderful teacher. She is truly the measure I use when watching an online tutorial. There is no reason anyone cannot learn something about sewing through the internet. All you need is a great instructor.<br />
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After discovering The Crafty Gemini, I did a search for online classes. Craftsy.com was the first thing that popped up in my search engine. After purchasing over 50 classes, Craftsy now offers unlimited classes for an annual flat rate. This also includes special offers and freebies for people who enroll. This means I have access to EVERYTHING on Craftsy.<br />
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Here are more of my favorites:<br />
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<b><u>YOUTUBE</u></b>:<br />
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The Crafty Gemini<br />
Crafty Gemini Creates<br />
Missouri Star Quilt Company<br />
AGF (Art Gallery Fabric - Great, fast and easy)<br />
StitchesbyJulia (a multi media artist who works a lot with fabric)<br />
The Midnight Quilter - Angela Walters (Funny and inspiring)<br />
Debbie Shore<br />
Dinkeydoo<br />
Jordan Fabrics<br />
Marilyn Lee (Mostly I get a lot of Inspiration from her. She uses a Vintage Treadle Machine!)<br />
Sew Sweetness (Sara Lawson is The Sweetest! and has now launched Video Tutorials, plus she is very generous with her online followers on Facebook and Newsletter)<br />
SewVeryEasy<br />
Shabby Fabrics<br />
Teresa DownUnder (Great, quick Tutorials for blocks)<br />
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<b><u>ONLINE LEARNING</u></b>:<br />
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<b>Craftsy.com - </b>As I stated above, I had over 50 classes before I purchased the unlimited plan. If you break it down it's only $10/month for unlimited classes in all areas of crafting: sewing, quilting, paper crafting, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting, cooking, etc., etc. The list goes on. You might find that you like something you never thought you would do in a million years. The first seven days are free if you're intereseted in trying out the unlimited plan to see if you like it before investing.<br />
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<b>Creative Bug</b> - Over 1000 Online Art & Craft Classes Just $4.95 a month. They are similar to Craftsy.com in that they offer a plethora of classes in all crafting, sewing and quilting generes. In addition, they have really wonderful instructors who have been sewing, quilting and/or crafting for many years. I purchased the monthly membership for $4.95 a month and I think that is a real bargain. The classes are shorter, however, and sometimes you need to fill in the blanks but for the most part I have learned quite a few things and the instructors think outside the box a lot. My favorite class right now is taught by Fabric Designer, Anna Maria Horner; Mod Corsage Quilt. It's a great way to use up abandoned blocks.<br />
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<b>Iquilt </b>is associated with American Quilt Society. They have a huge assortment of classes in all areas of quilting given by nationally recognized instructors. Similar to the Craftsy.com format it is easy to navigate, and if you are an AQS member you receive a discount! If any of you are interested in taking an online class in thread painting, try out Renegade Thread Play taught by Melinda Bula. The price for AQS members is $27.96 and $34.95 for non members. If you've ever taken one of her classes or any other teacher at an AQS sponsored quilt show you know that the classes fill up fast and cost twice as much! Take this opportunity to learn something new from an amazing teacher at a fraction of the cost right in your own living room!<br />
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Annie's - Check out their online classes. Their prices can't be beat. I am planning on taking the "Pieced Boarder: Sized for any Quilt" Annie's is a clearance Crafting, sewing and Quilting supplier. They don't have everything but what they do have is significantly discounted. For instance, my favorite Clover seam ripper is only $3.99. They usually list how many they have in stock. It's worth a minute of browsing at Annie's.<br />
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I have really enjoyed compiling this list of favorites and I hope I found something new for you. Please leave comments and let me know what online courses and sites you find the most valuable.<br />
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Happy sewing!<br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-77847691860896781792018-03-25T10:44:00.000-07:002018-03-31T05:33:26.650-07:00GIFTING THE BERNINA... WELCOMING A NEW FRIENDIf you have been following my blog you know that I started it not only to share my creative process, feedback, reviews and anything that I thought would be interesting, helpful or inspirational but also my journey with my Bernina, 750QE. Five years ago when I started to learn how to sew a 1/4 inch, make quilty things and anything that involved fabric, I was led to believe that "real quilters use Berninas." Yes! That was actually said to me by a woman in a class I was taking in a LQS in Ohio. (I don't live in Ohio any longer... that was a short time in our lives when we were transferred there. It snows A LOT). I digress.<br />
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So, somehow I was talked into the Bernina. Actually, it wasn't difficult. I was new to sewing and I really wanted to be the best I could be. The better the equipment, the better the outcome? True, but what I have learned in the last 4 years of owning the Bernina is that Sewing Machines are a lot like cars. Some like German engineering; some like Japanese; some like American. I have owned all three at some point in my life. I enjoyed driving all three. German cars are heavy, swift, direct and mostly reliable. Japanese cars are smooth, quiet, easy and light. American cars are louder, heavier, fast. These are my opinions of course, and everyone will have a different experience. That is precisely the point with sewing machines. <br />
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My preference in driving has always been Japanese. Reliable, easy to handle, smooth. But I purchased the Bernina which in many ways was like driving a German car. Heavy, not as user friendly and I couldn't handle the curves as well as in my Japanese car. <br />
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I went to several classes, and recently found a wonderful dealer in Hanover, PA that helped me through a lot of learning curves. I was mending my relationship with my Bernina and I was hoping that I would be on the road to a new beginning... a new beginning that took 4 years of no interest payments! <br />
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In February, I flew to Florida to attend a Thread Painting class with my Sister-in-law, Dana. It was a class taught by one of my favorite fabric artists, Joyce Hughes of Joyce Hughes Originals. I wanted to take my Bernina but it is so large it would have had to be checked and there is no way I would trust the luggage handlers to not treat it well. So, I rented a machine from the shop, The Inspired Sewist, in Jupiter, Florida.<br />
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Here we are in our hats for Ground Hog Day. <br />
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I rented a Bernina 770, pretty much the same machine. But, try as I may, I had a frustrating time with the machine, bobbin issues, skipped stitches... it was so disappointing. My sister-in-law, Dana, brought her 10 year old Bernina Aurora which hadn't been used or serviced in 10 years. She did the most amazing work! She had never done thread painting but her work was exquisite! A Natural!<br />
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When she purchased it she did a lot of research, sewed on several machines and settled on the Aurora for a number of reasons. When I bought my Bernina I bought it based on opinion and... well, a little bullying. Still, my SIL admired my machine and thought I was really fortunate to have it. I didn't feel the same way and it made me feel guilty instead. I don't deserve a machine that everyone else loves and I, for a lack of better words, HATE USING. <br />
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We still had a lovely weekend together. She's so much fun and I love spending time with my in-laws. They're a hoot and we laugh a lot!<br />
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When I returned home I talked about the class for days. Diane, my partner, dutifully nodded her head and ooed and awed over my work and especially Dana's which was amazing! <br />
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I had recently purchased a Baby Lock Serger and was creating a lot of crazy things on it, really enjoying the ease of use and learning a lot of new techniques I never thought I'd use. <br />
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One day while driving along Route 40 Diane asked "Is the Bernina paid off?" I immediately felt a little guilty because after 4 years of making payments, it was one month from being paid off and I rarely sewed on it. "Yes, one more month." Her reply made my jaw drop. "Good. Why don't you find a Machine you really like now." Wait, what? "But, what about the Bernina?" "What about it? You obviously hate sewing on it, yet you love to sew. The only thing I ask is that you really do the research this time." After I recovered from this statement I promised, cross my heart, stick a needle in my eye, hope to... you get the meaning. "I promise! I don't want to make the same mistake." The only thing she told me after that was that when I decided on my machine that I would not have "Bernina Envy" and feel like I wasn't a "real quilter" if I had a different brand. I can tell you that after 4 years of not enjoying my machine, I didn't care what any quilter said to me. They can drive their German Car and I will drive my Japanese car! <br />
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Introducing my new machine: The Baby Lock Journey, Sewing and Quilting Machine!<br />
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Already I have sewn more on this machine than I did in the past four years on the Bernina! It's unbelieveable. For me, this machine fits my movement, my pace, my understanding of software. It's almost instinctive to me just as many Bernina users find Berninas to be for them. </div>
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Where is the Bernina? Where it belongs... a Gift to my Wonderful Sister-in-law, Dana. She said it sews like Butter and started sewing on it immediately. I am so happy it has a good home with a sewing artist who will appreciate it as much as it should be! I think the Bernina is happier too!</div>
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Bernina in her new home: </div>
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-26607673526739982922018-03-12T15:46:00.000-07:002018-03-25T09:38:55.151-07:00A SERGER FOR A QUILTER, FABRIC ARTIST, BAG MAKER? YES !Hello friends. The fall and winter have moved swiftly and as Spring approaches I have had that itch that appears whenever the birds start chirping. Clean out the nest!!! In this vintagekindagirls' world that means cleaning the sewing area of all things I don't need, use, or have too many of. In addition, my amazing partner, Diane, surprised me by moving my entire Sewing room upstairs! I am no longer in the basement and since the room is now in the main part of the house, the heart of our home where there is life happening, I have been much more creative. <br />
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Fast forward to ......<br />
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One afternoon I went to my local BabyLock dealer (I own a Sofia II, a small sewing/embroidery machine, in addition to a Juki and ... Well, that's another story) to pick up some fat quarters. I had no intention of purchasing anything more than about a half dozen fabric choices when I found myself sitting at a serger. Now, I do not construct clothing and while I did make a pair of leggings at my latest Crafty Gemini Retreat, I didn't think it would be a necessary purchase as I was able to construct said leggings on my sewing machine. In addition, I was in no way wanting to learn how to thread one! The thought makes my head hurt. So, what in the world was I doing sitting at this machine? Well.... the saleswoman asked if I had ever used one and I said no and didn't think I needed one since I do not construct clothing. Then she showed me the tons of projects done on a serger hanging around the shop. Oh my Gosh! I had no idea. A new world of decorative stitching possibilities opened up to me! Plus the opportunity to finish projects faster and even do decorative finishes in place of bindings on smaller projects. My mind was aflutter with ideas and The next thing I know I am walking out the door with a pre-owned BabyLock Imagine! The perfect machine for a beginner and a perfect price for a first time serger user. In addition, BabyLock is one of the leaders in sergers and most people will tell you they are top notch. The drawback is the price. My imagine would be closer to $1,800 new but I paid less than half of that purchasing it pre-owned. In addition, the dealer offered five years free maintenance and IT IS AN AIR THREAD!!! That's right, nothing scary for this delicate flower! <br />
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Well, with this purchase came 60 days of free “sew at home” classes which usually range between $.00-40.00 depending on the class. I dove right in. Started watching every video they had on operation, extra feet, decorative stitching, found a craftsy class and eventually a project I loved on YouTube. My first serger art piece came out of this.<br />
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It’s just scraps, simple serving and running seams back and forth causing it to wave. Afterword I did decorative stitching.<br />
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When I found out about all of the exciting threads and yarns I could use in the loopers I went loonies! <br />
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Recently I went to Tuesday Morning to scope out the craft section... always some cool finds there. In addition to finding charm packs of Cotton and Steel I also found these jewels for couching and also to fit inside the loopers of my new-to-me Imagine Serger:<br />
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Happy creating friends and look for my next posting. I have an update about my Bernina situation. You won't believe it!<br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-21438911504559076962018-03-11T04:28:00.002-07:002018-03-11T04:28:19.149-07:00IT'S MARCH 2018 ALREADY!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello Sewisters. Good news, I am typing this blog myself!!! I am seven months post-op and I am typing, sewing, opening doors, using flatware and....... hand sewing! And you know what? I still hate to hand sew. LOL. But, I can do it! <br />
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Here isthe before and after picture . The pin has been removed but I still have a bionic hand with two titanium buttons holding things together. The left hand is still waiting for the same surgery but I am putting it off until the very last minute. <br />
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If any of you are in need of this surgery I hope you will do a lot of research into the procedure your surgeon performs. My surgeon, Dr. Emery Kim, does not remove a large bone and fill it with tendon material like many other surgeons do. It is his own procedure and one that he will be publishing his findings on very soon. I am so happy that I happened upon him. I really didn't have a choice as I am a member of Kaiser and he was the doctor assigned to me. It all worked out for the best!<br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-43243118195405499302017-10-21T18:51:00.003-07:002017-10-21T18:51:55.699-07:00Crafty Gemini Quilt Club Retreat, August 2017 - Another Epic RetreatHello Dear Friends. It's Sunday, August 13, and another amazing Crafty Gemini Quilt and Sewing retreat is in the books. Vanessa Vargas Wilson, (the Crafty Gemini for those who don't already know) invited guest instructor and bag maker extraordinaire, Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness to teach us how to make her Aragon Bag and the large Kismet Trinket Box, each of which are featured in her online store at http://sewsweetness.com as a Paper, PDF and/or Video/PDF pattern. I happen to love Video learning because there is nothing better than seeing up close what the next step is going to be, especially when being taught by extraordinary teachers. <br />
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I have sung the praises of the Crafty Gemini for her step by step, detailed instruction which she has basically set the industry standard for in my opinion. Sara Lawson has an equally amazing style in which she will begin the class by telling everyone the very first step and then she will go around the room to move people to the next step as they are ready while holding a sample of each step in her hand in which to show you. The class went so smoothly, and all the while we were each learning at our own pace. She has a calm energy that made everyone in the room believe they would achieve the goal of making her projects... and we did! Here is a picture of my finished Aragon Bag. <br />
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Below I am showing several other bags made by the Crafty Gemini Club members and as you will see each fabric choice gives the bag a unique personality. <br />
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In addition, the new Crafty Gemini Wallet of the Month Club has been launched and we were given the opportunity to learn one of the wallet constructions in person with Vanessa. Here is a picture:<br />
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and since great minds think alike, Sara Lawson has also released a group of four bag making videos with a specially priced for a short period of time. Afterward they will be available by PDF, paper or PDF/Video individually at regular price, which is still a bargain. <br />
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When I return home I am having surgery on my right hand to repair my thumb joint, or lack thereof, caused by a genetic arthritic condition. I'll post more about that as soon as I can type. <br />
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Coming up: More reviews of online learning and shopping. <br />
Information on Degenerative disc disease, surgery and recovery<br />
continuing journey with my Bernina 750 QE<br />
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yours in sewing and quilting, Nancy<br />
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<br />Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-41913486435124592142017-07-31T21:06:00.001-07:002017-07-31T21:30:18.658-07:00My Bernina - Dawn of a New Day, Upcoming Fun and BIG SALESHello Sewisters! <br />
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Last week I wrote about an amazing lecture given about Aurifil Thread at one of my favorite Quilt Shops, Danners Bernina Shoppe in Hanover, PA. Now, Hanover, PA is not in my back yard. I live in Baltimore and Hanover is about 50 miles from my home. However, it has the reputation as one of the best Bernina dealers in a 100 mile radius and worth the trip for me. Plus, it's always a pretty drive! So, this past Saturday, on the third anniversary of my ownership of my Bernina 750QE, I attended a "Basics Class" given by one of the owners, Mrs. Danner. This is a family business and all of the six Danner children have worked there at one time or another. I have, so far, met Mr. and Mrs. Danner, daughter Nadine and son Delmer. I describe them as my Bernina Super Hero Team! <br />
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The class was very well attended by Bernina owners, some bringing in machines bequethed to them by their mother or friend, others purchasing the most basic model on up to the 8 series. I was doubtful that I would learn a lot considering the vast differences in our machines. However, I was completely wrong! Mrs. Danner was a natural teacher. She explained things I already thought I knew but now I actually understand (chagrin) and also showed me why things were happening that I thought were a machine malfunction. First problem, not a malfunction by machine but a lack of knowledge by the user (me!). Yes, even on a sewing computer you must hold your thread while the machine stitches out the first few stitches so it doesn't get caught up underneath and create an ugly thread nest. Second, I was unhappy that when I began stitching it would make three stitches, creating a knot and therefore bulk, and bulk is the enemy of all quilters! Well, Mrs. Danner very sweetly told me that if I didn't like it I could change it! What? I can make my machine do something I like, or not do something I despise? She showed me in a few easy steps how to change this pesky operation and begin sewing nice and clean. However, what about keeping the ends from pulling apart when piecing? Well, there is quilters stitch for that as well. <br />
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The point is, I am realizing that my machine is only as smart as the user. In this case, the user is finally using her brain and also being taught by a wonderful instructor. And that, my friends, makes a huge difference. <br />
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Speaking of amazing instructors....... in two weeks I will be attending the August Crafty Gemini Quilt Retreat! I have been waiting ... well since last August for this! In fact, I was so sad at the thought of having to wait an entire year I booked the November retreat as well so next August wouldn't be so far away!!!! <br />
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At this retreat we will be learning not only from Vanessa Vargas Wilson (did I mention Amazing!!!!) but she has invited Sara Lawson to be a guest instructor! Yes! Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness! We will be making her Aragon bag and Kismet zippered trinket boxes. I am very much looking forward to this retreat and cannot wait to post during and after. <br />
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<b>BIG SALES<br />
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Did you know that Connecting Threads sells fabric? Yes! And it also has many lines under it's own label. One of my favorite bloggers and Craftsy teachers, Amanda Nyberg, is a Connecting Threads designer! Her new line, Emma & Myrtle, has just been released and it is ADOREABLE! I'm ordering a fat quarter and yardage asap. In addition, their Backing fabric is on sale through September and all notions are 30% off. Stop on by to see if there is anything you might need. <br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1045212&u=1508233&m=60894&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="https://static.shareasale.com/image/60894/Affliates_SE17_125x125_WideBackingSale.jpg" border="0"></a><br />
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<b>MY NEXT OLINE CLASS</b><br />
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I think I mentioned something about Creativebug.com in an earlier post. If not, here is a preview. They have online classes similar to Craftsy.com, however, they can be accessed by paying a monthly fee of $4.95! Now, I'm not sure about the length or quality, but I am assuming it's similar to Craftsy, however, I will be reviewing it in the next month. The class I am intereted in taking is:<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1036960&u=1508233&m=42943&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="https://static.shareasale.com/image/42943/WatercolorQuilt_500x250.jpg" border="0"></a><br />
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Check it out or any other class that looks interesting to you. There is also a 30 day free trial. You can take any class you like. <br />
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Sew, for now my sewisters.......<br />
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Keep calm and create on!<br />
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Nancy, your VintagekindagirlVintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-8155094334557562892017-07-26T07:48:00.000-07:002017-07-31T21:19:24.178-07:00Aurifil Lecture, UFO update and BIG SUMMER SALESHello sewing and quilting family. <br />
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AURIFIL THREAD LECTURE<br />
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Last Tuesday my sewister, Denise Harris, and I attended an amazing lecture given by one of the the Product Manager and Public Relations specialist for the Aurifil Thread Company, Alex Veronelli. Mr. Veronelli narrated a film of how thread is developed and produced at the plant in Milan, Italy including the how colors are chosen and developed. He also talked about some of the newest threads being introduced including the new 80 weight applique thread. All of Aurifil threads have multiple purposes, for instance, 80 wt was developed with the hand applique quilter in mind but it can also be used in the sewing machine for Free Motion Quilting (FMQ). I happen to love 80 and 100 wt thread when I want to bring out the beauty of the fabric more than the nuances of the stitching. It is also very forgiving! During his narration I learned not only about the process of creating a fine line of sewing thread but also that Aurifil places quality above quantity at every turn. For instance, during the process when thread is still in development a machine might be able to accomodate 6 tied bunches of thread for a process but only 4 are done at a time so as not to overcrowd the thread so all of it is treated evenly, albeit slowing down the production of quantity. <br />
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In addition to being witty,personable and humorous, Mr. Veronelli made himself available afterward to meet all of the attendees, answer questions and take pictures. He shared many samples of work done by several of our favorite quilting artists and fabric designers including pieces from his private collection that he obviously cherished. <br />
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After attending this lecture I, for one, will never complain about paying $13 per spool because I now understand the amount of care and attention that go into creating Aurifil Thread. <br />
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Now, it's not the only thread I will ever use, but it is one of my favorites and I don't imagine I will be replacing anytime in the near future. <br />
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UFO UPDATE<br />
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Well, as UFO's go, I'm still working on my Mexican Stars blocks and ... sadly... have nothing to share. When I returned from my Maine Vacation I hit the ground running and two weeks later was back on the road to return my neice to Florida. Upon my return I hosted a "Sewing Hollow" retreat in my home with My sewister, Denise, and we began preparing for our Crafty Gemini Quilt Retreat class in August. Seeing as how I haven't heard much in the way of progress from my followers, I would imagine we are all in the same boat. <br />
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BIG SUMMER SALES<br />
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Sizzix is having a huge "Christmas in July" Sale and I am providing the link on the right so you can get on over there and load up on your faves and receive a significant savings. <br />
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Annies Catalog is also having a 50% off on all on-line classes. Now, I haven't taken any of the classes from Annie's yet so I cannot speak to their content, but I have previewed them and they seem fun, are taught by leaders in the industry and are very creative. So take a look. The Link to the sale is also on your right. And, remember, Annie's is another great resource for supplies, sometimes things you can't find anywhere else. <br />
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Craftsy is having a 50% off sale on their "Start Up Library" classes. This is a wonderful bargain because it is a group of classes intended to get you started or refresh your skills in Quilting, sewing, crochet, embroidery, etc. The group of classes is already discounted so by giving you an additional 50% off you are raking in the savings. Please click here:<br />
<a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=29190&userID=1508233&productID=706910593" target="_blank">Startup Library: Quilting</a><br />
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or look for that link on the right as well and use the coupon code S5R63K6 at checkout.<br />
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That's all I have for you at the moment. Happy sewing.<br />
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Nancy your VKG<br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-17202271841826599492017-07-14T14:01:00.001-07:002017-07-14T14:01:05.936-07:00Where is the VintagekindagirlSummer is a crazy time of year for me. I'm off from teaching but on as super aunt!!! Diane and I take family vacations and in between I'm getting caught up on home stuff and, yes, already beginning preparations for next school year. <br />
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However if you follow my blog I want to first thank you and second let you know that Wednesday I will be back with my review of an Inside Aurifil Lecture being given by Alex Veronelli, Italian product manager for Aurifil Thread company!!! I am sew excited and I will also post pictures and share everything I learn.<br />
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In addition I will have a UFO update! I hope you will as well<br />
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Until then my friends!<br />
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VKGVintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-49899216753688181912017-06-22T20:46:00.000-07:002017-06-22T20:58:47.524-07:00UFO Summer ChallengeHello Fantastic Friends of Fabric. I am beginning my Summer UFO Challenge and I hope you will consider joining me. Every week I am committing to work on one UFO. I may work on part of or finish something as simple as binding (not that binding is simple! but it counts as one thing to finish). <br />
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This week I have been on vacation with family. We have been traveling through Maine and settled in a cabin on a lovely, spring filled lake. I am surrounded by nature, beautiful sunrises, a crystal clear lake, singing loons, croaking frogs and a lot of BUGS! But I also have this amazing view while I sew and its inspirational to say the very least. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2voikABuW6-xIeBqplHlYbW1mrb29KHMklLoRpidYxiaCfsDgdvkFZoHB4C1c77OGHh9R60Gr5KT5puWRNzlaGvDbcWIlM6SJuVQOhW6mec3ANhloE6wY8b81AJH-mSc7ObFlQWw536q/s1600/IMG_3288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2voikABuW6-xIeBqplHlYbW1mrb29KHMklLoRpidYxiaCfsDgdvkFZoHB4C1c77OGHh9R60Gr5KT5puWRNzlaGvDbcWIlM6SJuVQOhW6mec3ANhloE6wY8b81AJH-mSc7ObFlQWw536q/s320/IMG_3288.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kate, Harry, Diane, Tyler and Lily contemplating the fish </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lily guarding the cabin</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a children's only fishing pond</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kate caught the first Trout</div><br />
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So now for my UFO project this week. I brought several actually and when I arrived at the cabin I unpacked them all, except for one that has it's own, pretty box. It has its own box because it is in pieces. Measured, sliced and diced, bagged and labeled along with directions and thread. (I was wondering where that spool of pink Aurifil was). I saw the finished wall hanging in a LQS near my home and loved it, save for the fabric choices. But then, that is always a personal preference for quilters. <br />
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The quilt is called <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=60450&userID=1508233&productID=645795528" target="_blank">Mexican Stars Quilt Pattern</a> and Annies carries it and a ton of other quilting items AND online classes! (I'll be reviewing those soon too). <br />
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If you check out the pattern on pinterest you will also see all kinds of different fabrics, colors and patterns used for this amazing quilt. <br />
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My LQS even had a class on making this really beautiful quilt, however, the teacher, while very talented at fabric art, was not interested in conveying how to make the quilt. It was a frustrating experience and I ended up putting it up on a shelf. I didn't even finish the class. <br />
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One of the things that really gave me pause was the use of folded squares into triangles that are placed in corners, and then folded back on the bias to create a curve. But, one day, while surfing through the wonderful Facebook posts from one of my club sewisters in The Crafty Gemini Quilt Club, I happened upon a wonderful link to a video for a table runner. It wasn't even in English! But the person making the table runner did everything so concisely and orderly I could follow along and made this:<br />
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Fast forward 3 years. 3 years in quilting years is like 10 years of learning years. I have attended several retreats, downloaded dozens of classes and watched hours of YouTube tutorials. I am burning through computer giggle bites (whatever it's called) like there is no tomorrow and this is exactly the technique and tutorial I needed in order to tackle this beautiful quilt. I cannot find the original YouTube Tutorial but there are several now showing this very simple and versitile technique. Some call it Cathedral Window, and while the <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=60450&userID=1508233&productID=645795528" target="_blank">Mexican Stars Quilt Pattern</a> uses the technique it doesn't actually look anything like a cathedral window. <br />
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After 3 years of storing it with high hopes I read through the pattern and it all began to make sense. The importance of Strip sets, Units and labeling the fabric with names such as dark, medium, light, background, print, etc. It was no longer gibberish, foreign, gobbledygook! It was Quilt-talk and now I speak that! Here are some pics of the work I accomplished on my first UFO project of the summer:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoEnbQ3ceed4p3QrHr2sPJx0EhcN1d0c9hKeLdgpscXwNOtxqJ0Al_SrvIYxUBtKSzePQZqRH656T36tCmEBVDFJkgoHKTnJZI9maQbFbgL_g1shGzuip-4SOyxL0zqg7nYZO6OOYmLfR/s1600/IMG_3300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoEnbQ3ceed4p3QrHr2sPJx0EhcN1d0c9hKeLdgpscXwNOtxqJ0Al_SrvIYxUBtKSzePQZqRH656T36tCmEBVDFJkgoHKTnJZI9maQbFbgL_g1shGzuip-4SOyxL0zqg7nYZO6OOYmLfR/s320/IMG_3300.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So let's all get started. Let's make a pinkie promise to work on just a little bit or a big bit of a UFO. Even if you only do it once a week, post your progress, comment about it and cheer each other on. You can post in comments here and on the Vintagekindagirl Facebook page. I will continue to do the same. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy UFO Summer!</div><br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-86197117129963805842017-06-05T19:25:00.000-07:002017-06-18T07:19:04.525-07:00Dritz Easy Grasp Pins - 4 out of 5 spoolsIn my post about sewing and quilting with arthritis I wrote about notions and supplies that caused the least amount of pain to hold, operate, use, etc. I hadn't found these pins until recently and I used them for the first time tonight while sewing a pillow together. I had to pin through several layers and while they do not slide as easily as the lighter weight, glass head pins by Clover and Little House, they handled the layers well and, most importantly, I experienced absolutely no pain gripping the pin, pushing it through fabric or removing! This is a big win for me as using straight pins causes a great deal of pain in my thumb joint (or lack thereof). Here is the link to get your own box: <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=64696&userID=1508233&productID=662455388" target="_blank">Dritz Easy Grasp Pins Size 24 60 pc. - $7.69</a> from: <b>CreateForLess</b> which might be another good online resource to add to your list of go-to vendors.<br />
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In addition I made a little video to show you the difference in size and ease of pushing through fabric.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;"><b>You can watch the video on the Vintagekindagirl Facebook page.</b></div><br />
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I am giving the pins a 4 out of 5 spools simply because I wish they slid through fabric as easily as the Glasshead, smaller gage pins... but a vintagekindagirl can't have it all. Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-18830401452270716232017-06-04T15:17:00.000-07:002017-06-04T15:17:34.188-07:00YouTube Favorites: Channels and Individual Videos - Part 1Hello Fabric Art Crafters! Here is the post talking about my YouTube Favs. We have all scoured the internet for information at one time or another and especially when we are learning to do something for the first time. For instance, installing a zipper pocket inside a tote bag. When I learned how to do that I felt INVINCIBLE! Well, as I learned how to sew and quilt and craft anything for that matter, I found myself going more and more to YouTube. For some of you this isn't new but I have to say YouTube opened up an entirely new world for this vintagekindagirl!<br />
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Some of you know how I first began to sew. It was during a very difficult time in my life and I needed a distraction. I dusted off my sewing machine (used maybe once) and decided to make pillowcases. That's when I discovered The Crafty Gemini! This was before her Quilt Club, Retreats, Fabric Line, Sewing Coop, Endorsements, line of templates/Rulers.... I mean, the girl ROCKS! Needless to say I stumbled onto a gold mine in the making. Because of her excelent teaching style I made my first of many pillowcases. After that I checked around for easy quilts. I stumbled upon Jenny Doan from the Missouri Star Quilt Company's Jelly Roll Race. Well I had a jelly roll in my pile of misfit fabrics (I had not idea how to shop for, match up, coordinate any fabric and when I bought the strips I didn't even know what I would use them for!) So, I began my first quilt and finished it in two nights. I had no idea what to do with it after that so I looked around the internet for long arm quilters, a term I came across somewhere in my searching. I found one a couple states away and contacted her. We picked everything from thread color to design over the internet and I mailed my two quilt tops off to her for quilting. I didn't realize that I could quilt them myself! I remember thinking to myself "this could get expensive if I keep sewing up quilts and then have to send them off for quilting. And, to top it off, with more researh I would have found a quilter down the street from me. I thought there were only a few in the US. Stop laughing... its true. I was green!<br />
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Well a lot has changed in the last four years and I have learned a great deal more because I have emersed myself into sewing and quilting and I have never looked back. Along the way I have discovered some excellent tutorials and channels on Youtube and I want to share them with you now.<br />
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<b>CHANNELS<b></b></b><br />
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The Crafty Gemini - Vanessa Vargas Wilson's own channel containing all of her tutorials from the very beginning through present.<br />
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Crafty Gemini Creates - Vanessa Vargas Wilson's collaboration with Missouri Star Quilt Company. A short series of tutorials that are quick and super fun.<br />
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The Midnight Quilt Show - Hosted by Angela Walters, Long Arm and Domestic Free Motion Quilting Expert and Teacher. You will love her down to earth style and philosophy about quilting. "Finished is better than Perfect!" She starts with her snacks and a pack of fabric pre-cuts from Craftsy.com and turns it into an amazing quilt from piecing to quilting in one tutorial. Obviously it will take longer than one sitting to do everything she is showing us, but the point is it can be done!<br />
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Missouri Star Quilt Company - Jenny Doan is the Teacher and she is sweet, funny and a wonderful teacher. She also has guests on from time to time.<br />
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Debbie Shore - She's from "over the pond" in England. She has written several books and teaches in a very layed-back style. Sometimes she has her big goofy dog in the tutorials as well. She's adoreable and unpretentious, not brand loyal, just loves to teach you how to make small and unique items. Totes, Coin purses, pillows, all with some kind of unique twist. You can learn a lot of great things from her tutorials. And I love to listen to her speak!<br />
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Pat Bravo - Quick, no words, tutorials. All visual learning with sub-titles. These are well done and you can watch and sew. Just hit pause. They also come complete with downloadable materials. I love the paper pieced heart!<br />
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Art Gallery Fabrics - They have great, quick tutorials on different blocks and also DIY tutorials on fabric things like flowers or quilted artwork. Two of my favorites are the Spiderweb Block and the Jackknife block. If you click on Chanels under Art Gallery Fabrics or just do a search look for Mister Domestic. My fav by him is the Improv Quilt Block. LOVE IT! And you will love him. He is a hoot.<br />
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Birdcage and Thread - I haven't watched it yet but she just did an 8 series tutorial on the Sew Together Bag! I cannot rate it yet but I will certainly be reviewing it very soon.<br />
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Mark Montano - This gentleman does almost everything. No patterns! Party dress, refurbish old furniture, lighting, lampshades, cards, jewelry... he's amazing. He also has a book. I have done the black party dress and plan to do his recent lampshade tutorial. But there are sooooooo many more. <br />
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Melanie Ham - Different style than Vanessa or Jenny but definitely excellent. Box Pouch, Pencil Tote, Quilting, etc.<br />
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Shabby Fabrics - She has adoreable projects. The videos tend to be a little long but the projects are really nice.<br />
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Man Sewing - Rob Appell teamed up with Missouri Star Quilt Company to teach his style of "man" quilting. He's funny and has different and fresh ideas.<br />
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Craftyattic.com - Silk Ribbon Embroidery. I enrolled in a silk ribbon embroidery class on Craftsy.com in order to learn this technique to embellish my art quilts. While doing more searching I came upon the Craftyattic.com site on youtube. Wonderful tutorials for Silk ribbon embroidery and also basic embroidery, materials and hand dying. <br />
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There are a few more that I promise to bring up in future postings but the above consists of my top choices and go to YouTube Tutorials. I hope you find them helpful and inspiring and I would love to know what your top three channels are too. Let's spread the knowledge. <br />
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Happy SewingVintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-23018747067077479242017-06-03T20:18:00.000-07:002017-06-03T20:18:05.138-07:00At-Home Sewing RetreatMy "sewing room" is in our basement. Part of the basement is unfinished, cement floors and not very bright, while the other part, albeit small, is well lit, has a half bath attached and... is where the washer and dryer live. When cleaned up it's a pretty functional place. My cutting table sits in the unfinished part of the basement. A large, industrial repurposed drafting table, illuminated by an industrial hanging light which reminds me of the type of brightly lit area where a spy might be interrogated by his or her foe, deprived of sleep and water. But hey, it works for rotry cutting. <br />
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My sewing machines, ironing and fabric are in the finished part of the basement which also serves as the laundry separating area at times and it really messes with my creative mojo. When laundry is out of the way (done) and the space is uncluttered (is that even possible for a quilter) it frees up space in my mind to work. I don't know why that is but it is true for me. <br />
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The only problem is that I am away from ... well everything. My Fiance, when home, is upstairs so I have to run up and down to share my progress, check on dinner, say hello to my dogs, answer the door if need be... on and on. I get lonely down there too. I don't necessarily want to be bothered by all of the goings on but I just want to have someone to relate to while sewing and quilting. <br />
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A couple of months ago some of my quilting family gathered for a sew-along at one friends house in Florida. One traveled from Georgia, another from Virginia. Members of our little group followed along via Facebook messenger and a few video chats. It was wonderful to see the camaraderie and watch as their creations unfolded and each was cheered on by their sewing sister. Pictures posted of them working out the quilting math, choosing fabrics and being crazy. I rejoiced for them and secretly wished it were summer so I could have joined them. <br />
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On the way home one of my quilting sisters messaged me to ask about having our own sew-along... a mini retreat. I actually live closer to her than our friend in Florida, but don't have the luxary of time at the moment. I never even thought of asking her to drive up to my home because I thought it would be an inconvenience. Apparently it was not. She invited herself up and we picked a weekend in the very near future and our Sewing Hollow Retreat (The name given to my basement sewing retreat) was now afoot. I was glad she did the inviting because I knew it was not an inconvenience to her! Had I realized this sooner I would have had 10 retreats by now! <br />
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I secured a substitute for Friday so I could have three full days of sewing. Denise, Moon Dawg, arrived at 5 p.m. having survived the DC traffic and 95 north. God Bless her! She also brought her amazing hometown BBQ, beans and coleslaw, the best I've ever had. Having her pull ito my driveway was like watching Santa Clause arrive on Christmas. But instead of the ususal gifts, I received the gift of company. <br />
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We began with a plan. While catching up in the living room we hatched our plan of attack. Moonie wanted to work on Secret Sister Gifts for her upcoming retreats. This girl is busy! She has FOUR upcoming retreats in the near future and in all of them she participates in Secret Sister Swaps. She likes to make her gifts as much as possible and add little gadgets and notions as well. Quilters are very generous and love sharing the items they have learned to make or that they love. But, still, she had a lot of gifts to make. I wanted to finish my Darth Vader Quilt top and make a few things for my April Swap. Yes, April!!! I'm a little behind. They don't sound like lofty goals but let me tell you. When two sewing friends gather together for the first time it is a flurry of talking, giggling, staying up way too late and sometimes a glass of wine or two. Okay Three! Needess to say, we didn't finish everything we set out to finish but the camaraderie, the exchange of ideas, the sharing of ideas and fabric made for an amazing three day weekend for this vintage kinda girl! <br />
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Moving forward I would say that having a plan is definitely a must when having an at-home retreat with a friend/friends. After checking in with Moonie before finishing this post we both came up with a checklist of sorts to follow when having an at-home retreat: <br />
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1. Have a plan. <br />
2. Have a plan B.<br />
3. Snacks and beverages.<br />
4. Internet and computer handy for quick reference.<br />
5. Set up two ironing stations. I set up a small rotary mat and ironing station on a cart next to Moon Dawg's sewing area.<br />
6. Be prepared to not sleep at all. <br />
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If you haven't had a friend over to sew with I hope you will soon. It was very rewarding, bonding and just plain fun! Our next Sewing Hollow Retreat will be in July. Our plan.... to prepare for our Crafty Gemini Sewing Retreat in August. Yep. We have to prep the pattern for a bag making class and sew up swap sistr gifts. I can't wait.<br />
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Happy Sewing.<br />
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<b>Pictures of our crazy antics and the Darth Vader Quilt top. Still needs borders and sandwiched. I'm not showing Moon Dawg's work because it was for her secret sister swap and its a secret!</b><br />
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<b>The picture of the Darth Vader Quilt was taken in my classroom because I needed to hang it up. I didn't have enough wall space in my Sewing Hollow.</b><br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1605416237160153333.post-20527773392092359092017-05-31T19:30:00.000-07:002017-06-01T20:47:46.723-07:00Upcoming Posts on The VintageKindaGirl Blog in JuneJune is here and the school year is coming to an end. I am getting very excited about having more time to sew, quilt and share it all with you on the VKG blog! Here are some posts to look forward to this month:<br />
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1. At Home Sewing Retreat - Highlights from my Amazing At-Home Sewing retreat with my sewister, Denise H. (Moon Dawg) and ideas for future at home retreats with a sewister or two. Themed, projects, set up, meals, etc. Please be prepared to leave your ideas in the comments for everyone to read. I know I love feedback and fresh ideas.<br />
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2. Favorite YouTube Tutorials: Crafty Gemini, AGF, Accuquilt, Missouri Star Quilt Company, Melanie Ham, and several by unknown people who have great ideas! <br />
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3. A Review and comparison of On-Line Learning Platforms: Craftsy, CraftU, Bernina, Sulky, Creativebug, Annies and Iquilt. This will be a series of several posts because I don't think I can post everything I want to share about each of the platforms listed above. Whenever possible I will have quick links so you can go directly to the platform and access their classes. I owe so much to the internet for my sewing and quilting successes I thought I'd share all of my experiences, good and bad. <br />
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4. THE UFO PROJECT: Quilters Quest to tackle UFOs and post progress notes and pictures. I would like my followers and other readers to consider tackling one UFO per week (if they are small) or making weekly progress on a larger UFO, post your comments and pictures (if possible) and let's cheer each other on. <br />
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Lastly, I am going to post many, many more pictures! I am very camera shy and I hate to have my own picture taken. In addition, if such a thing existed I would claim to have cameraphobia: Fear of photographing and downloading to the computer or internet. My goal is to get over it, learn how to use my cool camera and upload pictures of projects, my comparison reviews and a tutorial here and there.<br />
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Thank you for following VKG and Happy Sewing.<br />
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Vintagekindagirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11519979201228550754noreply@blogger.com0