Beaded Purse

The Gathering of Quilters last meeting (they meet Sept-May) was last week and the challenge was quilted purses. The purses entered were beautiful but one in particular caught my eye.

Rosemary Kahle

Rosemary Kahle made this beautiful beaded purse using silk that her son brought her from India. I happen to be lucky enough to have Rosemary as a neighbor and a car buddy when going to guild meetings. Her talent is evident when looking at this beautiful purse. She did not win because the challenge required the purse to be quilted. I'm so glad she did not quilt the purse. I think it would have taken away from the beautiful beading. It did not take First in the guild but in the I Have A Notion challenge (how to meet wonderful ladies with tons of talent) she took First Place in the Beaded Purse Challenge :)

What do you think? Would you vote for Rosemary's purse in this new category? Leave your comments here on my blog....as many as you like....you won't be sorry....guaranteed!

Smiles,

Kelly

Quilt Market Friends

I met some very fun people while at Quilt Market. On Thursday when I arrived the garage at the convention center was full. So I drove about 5 blocks and parked in a lot. I figured 5 blocks would be no big deal to walk. What I did not think about was that I would be leaving after 10 PM and I had not written down the name of the street.

I left the convention center and started walking in the direction that I thought I had parked in. Mind you I have all the stuff I bought at Quilt Market in 2 bags over my shoulder. That fabric was heavy (not too heavy however....I would never have considered sitting it down!!!). I walked a few blocks to discover I did not recognize anything. I turned around and walked into a building that said transportation on it. I ran into three gals who had name tags on from the Quilt Market so I asked if they were familiar with the area. One tries to help me with her map and then the other gal said...."come with us we'll help you find your car." So I go with them.....for all I knew they wanted to take my stash....thankfully they didn't. Come to find out it was Lacey Hill and Carol and Nancy from Quilt Woman.com. They were soooo kind. They helped me find my van and waited until I was totally loaded and driving before they drove away.

Carol, Lacey and Nancy after a good nights sleep :)

I wish I had gotten these gals names. They are sisters and were sitting behind me in one of the Andover classes. I had not eaten since 8am and it was 5:30pm. I was so hungry but I'd be dipped if I was going to miss something just for food. I started chatting with these ladies and we were sharing our experiences. I mentioned I had not eaten and one of them offered me a package of Fruit Snacks and a bottle of water. You know I did not turn that down. All I had to offer in return was a pencil and a pad that was given to me by Brewer Sewing. I would say that was a excellent trade :)

I was fed then driven to my van. That was after I was given tons of gifts ....and I'm not dead or dreaming. It really happened.

Smiles,
Kelly

GrabARoo's for Free Motion Quilting...more on the Quilt Market

My friends and I stayed at a hotel near the Pittsburgh Airport on Friday and Saturday. I figured that being so far away from the convention center we would not be running into people from the Quilt Market. I was wrong....again.....On Friday morning Lois met some gals while having breakfast that were going to Quilt Market too. They told her about their product, GrabARoo's.

On the way to the convention center, Lois says we just have to stop by and see the gals from GrabARoos. Well, I'm not a free motion quilter and I'm guessing I'll never be one either, so I was not very interested. Lois would not let up. She was so geeked about these gloves that I was not getting away from going over and seeing these gloves.

Once I put a pair on I was convinced....these are very useful gloves. They are nylon with finger grips on both sides....so if one side gets used quite a bit you can just flip them over!!! They did not snag on my rings when I put them on. I was impressed that they fit me because I have large hands (feet too) and it is difficult to get gloves (and shoes).

When I got home, I put on a pair and started moving my fabric around and it was easy to grab....they're not kidding. They really work....I just love it when things "really" work...don't you?

Lois used to work for the Post Office and she just knew the folks over there at her Post Office would love them. So she got a pair for herself and two for the two people at the Post Office (she does not live in a very big town...hence two postal clerks).

Now I must say I'm a convert now....I really like them and I use them when I'm sorting my paperwork. I gave a pair to my Post Man and he was thrilled. He said they are great when he has to sort the mail because the paper is easier to grab and it does not deplete the oil from his fingers (touching paper all day dries out the hands). He also thought they would keep the wind off his hands in the fall and winter and still allow him to be able to grab the stacks of mail to put in mailboxes.

So...if you are a free motion quilter or would like to use a pair of gloves to make your fabric easier to hold ....try the GrabARoo's. They are also great for scrapbookers because you won't leave finger prints all over you pictures when cropping. I guarantee you wont' be disappointed. I came right home and added them to my website. If you buy a pair and don't like them....first I'll take you to a shrink and then I'll give you your money back .... but you have to give the gloves back and pay the shrink :)

I'm not being paid by these gals....I'm telling the truth, the whole truth...and nothing but the truth. They were soooo generous....they gave me a few pairs to use as a giveaway on my blog....so if you want to win a pair....guess you better keep-on-a-readin. You will be glad you did.

Smiles,

Kelly

Tears Are Running Down My Cheeks

I have had an extremely difficult day. My son is ill and had to return to the doctors. My dog is ill and he had to return to the vet. He may need to be visit that rainbow bridge place soon and I just can't deal with that.

I'm out on the porch tonight and I see a box....I could not believe it. It is from Virginia, the creator of the Easy Reach Thread Carousel. It is the size that I would imagine a Thread Carousel to be in. But why is she sending me one? My heart is pounding and I run into the house and open the box. Here is a beautiful card with such kind words and this lovely gift. Talk about take my breath away.

Isn't she a beauty? I think I will name her Bella. I can't wait to run downstairs with the little energy I have left and put the dowels in and load her up.

So I'm going to sit down and write Virginia an e-mail when I see a comment on my website that says how nice my bag tags are. Then I remember that Little Birdie Secrets is doing a reader appreciation give away and I had offered to give 4 bag tags. So I click on over to Little Birdie and what do I see....Lovely words written about me.

Yes this is a pix of my computer screen. I know you can somehow copy and paste web pages etc...but this is more personal....the actual screen that I was looking at....makes it more real...don't ya think?

It doesn't get much better than this girls. Wow this is a Biscornu Day (knew I'd find a place to throw that in:)

I hope you all have a Biscornu day soon too!!!

I'm so full of joy and appreciation for the kindness that has been shown me this day. Virginia and Little Birdie....THANK YOU so very much.

Kelly

Bag Tags...By The Way

I'm not sure you all know that the design on the Bag Tags is not mine. It is Mary Jane's design. She developed it one day when working on a prototype. She taught me to make them and I know I've said this before....but it stands to be repeated....I DID NOT DESIGN THE BAG TAGS....but I have slept with the gal who did!!! At Quilt Market no less!!!! Now how is that for some real dirt? (I can hear Mary Jane laughing now...all the way from PA)

Truth be told....we are great friends and we went with other great friends and we all shared a room so we could be together and talk one another to sleep.

Ahhhh to have wonderful friends.

Smiles,
Kelly

I Won Miranda Stewart's New Punchneedle Book at Quilt Market

I had goosebumps when they called my name and I won Miranda's new book, "Punchneedle The Complete Guide". Woooo Hoooooo I wanted to jump up and hug her on the spot. You'll be so pleased to hear that I did not give in to my impulse. Instead I smiled very wide and said, "Thank You Marinda."

Marinda and her new book. She is such a beautiful woman. I wish my picture would have come out better. But it didn't so you will have to just imagine her beautiful eyes and smile.

Photo Album

Dinner Napkin

Picture

Eye Glass Case

Marinda said that any type of thread that will go through your needle and stay in your cloth can be used for Punchneedle. Now that is a gal after my own heart. Different threads make different textures and leave different sheens. My girlfriend, Starr, told me the same thing. These ladies have over 60 years of experience between them so I'm guessing they really know what they are talking about.

Punchneedle is fun and not very difficult to learn. It does take a little practice but honestly you will be able to make something fun in just a few hours. I prefer the Super Luxo needles but I don't use the handle. Starr taught me to put the needle into a pencil eraser and punch using just the needle. I think there are 4 needles in the Super Luxo set....it is late and I'm tired...so don't quote me (you've probably learned by now not to ever quote me anyway....it could get you into a lot of trouble....it does me) ....check my site under Punchneedle and the pictures are there.

This is a description of Marinda's book:

This book is a complete guide to the art of traditional punchneedle, an embroidery technique using a punch needed to create designs with looped thread. It includes a brief history of the Russian origins of the technique, along with a comprehensive review of the tools and materials used. Each technique is illustrated with a small sample and instructions so that you can try out the technique. Marinda also teaches you how to use punchneedle embroidery on a wide range of background fabrics - from rough and earth silk tussah to the finest velvet - and how to create an enormous number of textures and effects.

Have a great day!!!

Kelly

Quilt Market Set-Up

These are some overhead pictures I took of the Quilt Market while they were setting up.

Does this give you an idea of how big the convention center is? It was huge. I don't know how many vendors were there....I should look that up someplace in all my paperwork.

I'm writing more about my adventures and getting them ready to be published. I'm going to be featured on Little Birdie Secrets reader appreciation giveaway this week. As soon and that is done I will post a giveaway from Quilt Market. I'm also in the process of putting two contests together to give some lucky readers an opportunity to create something original for two designers. Oh so much fun!!!

Smiles,

Kelly

Hi, I'm Kelly and I'm an Addict

I guess it is time I come clean. I could not control my impulses and purchased more fabric than I will use in a year or more....probably 3 years. I also bought some patterns. I will not be carrying fabrics on my website in the foreseeable future....but the patterns and notions will be there if not already. So...here are the introductions to my new babies:

These are Dovo scissors. I had never heard of Dovo prior to Quilt Market. I have always thought Gingher scissors were the best and nothing compared. Well...guess I was living in a cave. These scissors cut like 'buttah' girls. You may have to give up you car to buy them but who cares about driving when you can have these lovely sewing scissors right? Right!!! I'm walking and I'm OK with that....a bit tired....but it's OK....that is what I'm telling myself anyway :) I have the paperwork to begin to order these Dovo scissors for my website but they are not on there yet. If you want a pair and know which one's you want....sell your car....then e-mail me!!


This cool tool by New Leaf clings to your sewing machine top and helps you to sew on a diagonal line. I really liked it so I bought several for my website and of course one for me. Selling the car is not necessary for this cool tool....lunch would be more expensive :)

These patterns are by Castilleja Cotton. They are two sisters and a husband....they don't share him....well....they did not appear to share him.....one of the sisters was married to him....oh geez...I'm really digging a hole aren't I? Anyway....lovely people from Canada and I loved their patterns. They all three design and do what is necessary to take their patterns to market.

These are only 2 of Florine Johnson's roosters. I have ordered more and they will hopefully arrive soon. I just loved them. I have no idea why....probably the bright cheerful colors. I hope you love them too.....cuz I'm going to have those soon too.

Lori Smith's patterns were just beautiful. I wanted every one she had. She has even designed patterns that when finished will fit into ready made frames. How smart is that? So you go to your local frame shop (or if you are like me....your local garage sale) and buy a frame to fit your piece. I already have a few of her patterns on my site. Soon I will have as many as I can upload!!!

I thought these Flower Power Pincushions would make fun gifts. They would be great for Guild exchanges and fundraisers too. I'm hoping to have them on my site soon too. Geez....I need either more time or helpers.....

This pattern is by "The Noble Wife" and I thought they would be fun for flowers on a purse or as an embellishment on a package. Just too cute to pass up.

I liked this pattern for a purse organizer by Studio Kat Designs. I thought others might be interested for their purses and for their sewing notions in their sewing bags.

Cotton Ginnys had this Cell Phone Catty. I thought it might make Cat Lovers smile. I think it would also be very nice in punchneedle.

OK LADIES....here comes the fabric.....I'm telling you right now....I am studying Karate and I own weapons.....DO NOT BREAK INTO MY HOME AND TRY TO STEAL MY STASH.....you have been warned. I won't be serving coffee and cookies if I find you piling through my stash :)

Marrakesh by Hoffman Fabrics

Folklorika by Andover Fabrics....coordinating fabrics below.

Posies Roll Up by Robert Kaufman

Starflake by Brewer Sewing

This beautiful assortment is by Avlyn Fabrics.

Andover Fabrics Autumn Bounty panel and coordinating fabrics below.

Hoffman California front

Hoffman California back

I must have lost the label....but I loved it.

Exotic Felt Assortment by National Nonwovens.

I now live in a tent and walk everywhere I go.....but I do have an electrical cord from the kind neighbors to my tent so I can still sew.

Smiles,

Kelly

Batting and Fiberfill is Now Tax Deductible

No Kidding.....it just depends on where you store it. Now if you are currently storing your batting and fiberfill in your sewing room.....there is no tax credit for you. Oh yea....this is for US citizens only....other countries will have to check with their governments tax officers.

Now this is how it works girls: The government is offering a tax deduction, I think it is up to 30% of purchase price, for all insulating upgrades to your home. So if you store your fiberfill or batting in your attic.....you can claim it is insulation!!! What the HEXX.....I figure if they IRS comes out to check on why we are buying our insulation from a fabric store and not a Home Improvement store....we'll just show them our quilts....give them some coffee (and Tim Tams) and they'll see this issue the same way we do.

Now....if that doesn't work....claim ignorance and say you read it online....but don't give them the exact source :)

Smiles,
Kelly
PS....I'm wondering if I store my fabric stash up in the attic if that will count too....hmmm....I'll check into this one and get right back to you.

Sample Spree Thursday Night at Quilt Market

A Movie Star!!! Eleanor Burns was at Sample Spree in her beautiful boa signing books. Isn't she beautiful...what a great smile and boa.

Quilt Market is for business owners, designers, artists, longarm quilters and people associated with the quilting industry to meet and introduce their products, share information and take orders.


On Thursday night they have something called, "Sample Spree." The sample spree, from what I could gather, is to offer shop owners an opportunity to purchase fabrics and notions that have not yet been released for show in their shops or websites. Hence, Sample Spree.


After my last class at School House with Andover Fabrics I headed straight down to Sample Spree. I had been told by Internet friends that the folks line up early. The sale was to be 8-10 pm. It was just 6pm when I went to get in line. I was so surprised to see a huge line of two hours in advance. You have to remember this is my first Quilt Market. I could not believe people were actually lined up to PAY for things they could order from their home computers in just a few weeks....and some things that are already available. But I'm going with the flow here. We all patiently waited in line and chatted with one another. I really enjoyed that the most. I loved talking with people and learning about their lives and interests.


So the doors open and to my surprise they opened doors in the middle of the line as well. I guess that was a good decision on their part to avoid a stampede and having people rushed to the ER. I felt like I was at one of those soccer games you hear about on TV when people get trampled.


Just inside the door that I entered through, were the Andover Fabrics folks and then the MODA group. People were literally 3 and 4 deep and handing fabrics over their heads to other gals standing directly behind them. It was PANDEBALONIUM (if you are a follower of this blog you will know this word).

I asked the Andover guy how they know people are actually paying for all those fabrics they are passing overhead. He said, "I always trust a Quilter." That Andover guy says all the right things :) It is true....I've never been cheated by a quilter (knocking on wood) and I have found they are happier giving you something than taking something.

This was the line ahead of me.

This was the line behind me.

I loved this gals jacket. I was expecting to see more clothing created by quilting artists and designers. I only saw a handful of specialty clothing being worn. That was a big surprise to me.


Edyta Sitar was there with her husband signing books as well. I thought I was married to the best guy in the world. I guess Edyta must have gotten in the same husband gene pool as I did. He was right there helping, smiling and chatting in his friendly manner.

I ran into Katie and Mary from Needles Quilt Shop in Wellsboro, PA. Those are some seasoned gals....very wise. They strolled in after the rush and were just looking around. In the future....I'm following their lead!!!

Smiles,

Kelly

P.S....I went to bed last night at 9:30 and got up at 9:30 this morning. After a busy week with the family and being worn out by 4 days of walking and talking....I needed some rest.

Quilt Market Chapter 2

Misty Fuse and Transdoodle were two products that I had never heard of prior to going to the Quilt Market. I met a gal who was demonstrating how to use Transdoodle and Misty Fuse. I know I have her business card somewhere but I can't find it in this pile of paper I brought home from Market. I put these two items with the book I got about Fabric Art Collage because I really think all these products go wonderfully together.

Misty Fuse is a very thin/sheer paperless fusible that is great for all weights of fabrics (yes she said all and I saw it work). There is no extra weight from the fusible because it is so thin. I felt two pieces of cotton that had been fused and I could not feel the fusible web at all. It was not stiff or bulky. There is no added adhesive like some of the other brands so it does not gum up your needle or your scissors. I was so convinced that I bought several patterns that are applique. I plan to do a applique wall hanging for my kitchen and I'm going to use the machine applique technique. I saw some work that you absolutely could not tell was needle turn because the fuse was so thin and the stitches so invisible.

Moving on to Transdoodle. You can click on the link above to see a demonstration. I got so excited because I always mess up transferring designs. This product is a transfer paper that does not stain and is not waxy. You can re-use it over and over. It has a chalky color and will not set into your fabric. It rubs off. So if I want to transfer a pattern to black weavers cloth for Punchneedle. I just trace over the pattern with a layer of Transdoodle between my pattern and fabric and Wah-Lah....the design is there. It is like chalk carbon paper. You know I got a tube of this stuff.

The book, Fabric Art Collage by Rebekah Meier, was given by Checker Distributors and Rebekah signed each copy. I thought Misty Fuse and Transdoodle were perfect items to be used with Rebekah's book. I had watched Rebekah use another brand of fusible to bond tissue paper (gift tissue) and paper napkins together to make a paper fabric. I think the Misty Fuse would work wonderfully because it is so thin/sheer. It would not show through the work.

The rolls of white canvas is "Multi-Purpose Cloth" by Roc-Ion. This cloth feels like a canvas. It makes beautiful Floorcloths, Placemats, Wall Hangings and a variety of other items. This stuff feels sturdy yet flexible enough to sew through.

So you can take your Transdoodle to transfer your pattern and then use the Misty Fuse to fuse your papers or fabrics and then apply them to the Multi-Purpose cloth and you have an incredible wall hanging, floorcloth, bag, lamp shade, window shade, banner, sign, book cover, table runner or any other great thing you can think of.

I'm not being paid by any of these folks although I think I should be asking for some cash for advertisement. Big, no Huge Cash.....large denominations unmarked!!! I really think these are all great products and you have my word on that. No BS here.....that stands for Bologna Sandwich by the way :)

Sorry for the long post....but I had to tell you all about the great stuff I saw.

Smiles,

Kelly