Simplicity Creative Group and Mimi Shimp

Checker 61st Anniversary Open House

Chapter One: Mimi Shimp from Simplicity Creative Group

Mimi was demonstrating the Bias Tape Maker Machine and the Rotary Cutting Machine by Simplicity. My first picture is proof that the tips are in!!!! I heard from two sources that I should have mine in a week. That is the good/Great news. The not so good news....for me anyway....is that they are releasing them in two phases. The first phase will be the 3/8" Single Fold Tip, 1/2' Single Fold Tip and the 3/4" Single Fold Tip. The second phase will be the 1 1/4" Single Fold, 2 1/4" Quilt Binding Tip and the 2 1/2" Quilt Binding Tip. The last three are due out in the Fall of 09. With Quilt Market being Oct. 10-12th....I'm guessing that is what they mean...but again....that is just my guess.


Feel the excitement? I asked someone to fake a heart attack so I could grab the tips and run....but they would not cooperate. Uncooperative people stink!!!

Pictures of the tips and their release times.

Replacement Rotary Cutting Blades

for the Simplicity Rotary Cutting Machine

A little birdie told me there will be a 12 x 16" table made of ABS (white plastic for us non-engineering folks) to go with the Rotary Cutting Machine by Simplicity. That is due out in late Fall. I'm guessing Late Fall translates to Holiday time. I'll keep my eyes peeled. Guess I need a spy in China looking in that factory. Anyone reading have a family member or friend living close to the manufacturers for Simplicity in China? Please let me know....I'll send them a pair of high powered binoculars to see inside the windows. Everyone needs a spy....or several spy's right?

EZ Jelly Roll Ruler by Simplicity

I think this was pretty smart of Kimberly Einmo to design a ruler for Simplicity that goes with all the pre-cut fabrics being distributed today. It makes cutting jelly rolls, layer cakes, honey buns, crescent rolls....everything but my belly roll .....a bit more simple. Kimberly will have a book out in January through AQS. I'll keep my eyes open for that one too.
Simpli-EZ Double Wedding Ring Ruler

This ruler set was designed by Darlene Zimmerman for Simplicity. I have never made a Double Wedding Ring Quilt (even though my daughter just got married in July...shame on me). I have always thought they were too difficult and I just did not want to get in that deep without having Mary Jane attached to my hip. This ruler may have just set Mary Jane free....possibly....but not for long....I always need Mary Jane for lots of other trouble.

I took lots of photos so you could see the process. I hope the photos show how the steps for cutting the fabrics are made a bit more manageable. It certainly seemed to me to be less complicated using this process.

Thank you Mimi for showing me how this ruler worked. I loved chatting with you and learning so much. I appreciate you caring about my customers and answering all my questions....and trying a few of my ideas.

Sew U See, it can be done. That is copy written by the way.....don't ya just love my phrases?

I had a lot of fun yesterday and learned quite a bit. I'll be publishing more chapters soon. My in-laws are here and I have already been away long enough.

Simple Smiles (I could not avoid that...even though it is korney),

Kelly

Checker 61st Anniversary Open House Aug. 24

Before I get started with who was there (probably a multi-part series) let me say a few things about the 61st Anniversary Open House held at Checker Distributors this past Sunday and Monday.

I felt like I was going to Disney when I pulled into Checker parking lot. There were 3 or 4 folks with flags waving us into our parking spots. Everyone smiles and were cheerful out there. I was welcomed and promptly offered coffee and cookies. Mind you it is 8AM but you know me.....sugar and caffeine is my favorite "rocket fuel." There were lots of staff available to help with almost everything. Lunch was excellent: BBQ pork & chicken, green beans, salad, coleslaw, cake and cold and hot beverages. I'm sure that was a ton of work and I really appreciate their effort (especially because I'm a peanut size business compared to many of those other folks there).
Ok....now I've been nice....here is my complaint. You may remember the last open house I attended. If you don't....you can read about it HERE.

Apparently Checker have some strange company policy about dress code??!!?? At least that is what they were saying when I asked about the men is short shorts and serving Margaritas. I left before 3:00PM so for all I know those were served (they were probably just waiting for me to leave) Now, I did see some men in shorts and I took this picture as proof.

But....hmmmm.....mmmmm....aaaa ummmm...what do you think? Are these short enough ladies?

I'm just thinking at conferences that are attended mainly by men there are usually some sort of pretty ladies around or some restaurant they are taken too because the girls are pretty. I'm just saying.....you all know there are more ladies than men in attendance.....I'd just like some entertainment....do you think we live on fabric and notions alone (shhhh don't mention the cookies)?

It's nice to be a peanut....I then have time to blog and have fun...LOL.

Naughty Smiles,

Kelly...I'll be right back to post about the really good stuff as soon as I get my co-workers down for their naps :)

5th Annual Levis Commons Fine Art Fair & Rain Drop Studio

Yesterday we took my in-laws to the 5th Annual Levis Commons Fine Art Fair (Perrysburg, OH). There were over 100 artists and their work included jewelry, ceramics, painting, glass, photography, fiber and more.We live just 3 miles from Levis so it was convenient and fun. There was an art tent for children provided by the Perrysburg Area Arts Council. We all had a great time.

Three years ago I saw Brenda Klein's work at the Levis Commons Fine Art Fair. I will never forget that day. It was only the second time in my life (up until that point...now it's been 3 times) that art has brought tears to my eyes. Brenda is a textile artist and she uses nature as her inspiration.

Brenda Klein Rain Drop Studios

These photos do no real justice to Brenda's talent and the beauty of her pictures. I remember seeing her work for the first time and just standing and staring at it......it really grabs me somewhere that I can't even hardly describe.... beyond verbal translation. That is really something for me....I'm rarely speechless, ay?

I hope you have enjoyed these poor quality photos of her amazing work. To get a better look....click on the highlighted links to her website. You won't be sorry you did....I promise :)

Brenda....this is for you!!!

Speechless Smiles,

Kelly

Ellen Highsmith Silver & De Ja Vu

"Wildlife" by Ellen Highsmith Silver

Today I was surfing the Internet and De Ja Vu hit when I was reading this from the Fab Shop News website. I knew I recognized the quilt in the picture but could not recall from where.

I had recently visited Ellen Highsmith Silver's website when I was bloging about "FloorQuilts" and I saw her quilt, "Wildlife." I flipped back to her site and sure enough....it was her quilt. Guess I'm not going crazy after all!!! Ellen does amazing applique and this quilt is beautiful.

If anyone is headed to New York or lives near this exhibition might be lost of fun to see. It is scheduled to run Sept. 22 through Nov. 14th at the Williams Club (24 East 39th Street). According to the FabShopNewsNotes there will be 63 quilts hanging in most of the public spaces on the first two floors and in the basement. You can see the quilts everyday (M-Sunday) from 8am to 8 pm. The exhibition is being organized by the City Quilter.

If you go let me know....I'd like to see some photos. I don't think I'll get there....but ya just never know :)

Smiles,

Kelly

Amy Butler Spanky Name Badge Challenge

Who is in? The deadline is nearing to enter the challenge. I want as many US folks who want to participate to e-mail me so you get a chance at some wonderful prizes. Don't know what I'm talking about....you've been snoozing. Time for some caffeine and a cold washcloth on the face. Awake now....ok....hop on over and leave me your e-mail saying you are in. If you still don't know what I'm talking about....click here....some folks need to be spoon fed :) LOL

Smiles,
Kelly

A Clean House in Two Hours?

How do you get your house clean in 2 hours? Better yet, how do you get your house clean in 2 hours while you are laying on the sofa with a sinus headache?


You remind your husband his parents will be arriving tomorrow!!! Oh yea baby....I was on the sofa with a bad sinus headache and he ran around this house like a vicious tornado. Grandma and Grandpa arrive this afternoon and the laundry is caught up, the guest bedroom that was previously filled with tools from Rick's bathroom project is now empty (my bedroom however is now full of tools :) and the kitchen floor has been mopped.


I got so excited by watching Rick clean that I actually got up off the sofa and cleaned the carpet in the family room. Romance takes on many forms over the years doesn't it!!!

While his parents are here I'm going to have a discussion with them about their family genes. I have long suspected there is a liar somewhere in their family line. I finally have proof. See Aaron's offspring.....they have noses like Pinocchio ....it must have come from Rick's side of the family....don't you think?

I think I'll talk with Grandpa about the genetic issue....Grandma might think I'm serious at first!!! Those poor folks....can you imagine having me as a Daughter-In-Law?

Naughty Smiles,

Kelly

Bias Tape Maker Machine By Simplicity Update

The excitement is building for the release of the new tips for the Bias Tape Maker Machine by Simplicity (69.99 on Sale NOW). I have ordered lots of tips in each of the sizes. Just as soon as I have those hot little babies in my hands I will post it on my blog and website.

Smiles,

Kelly

Needle Arts Guild of Toledo Meeting

Last night the Needle Arts Guild of Toledo met and the program was about a Biscornu Arm Chair Pin Keep.

Meet Karlyn Thompson. She gave the program last night and this is her Arm Chair Pin Keep. She gave directions and patterns to make our own Arm Chair Pin Keep, Caddy-Needle Case, Scissor Case and Scissor Fob. The one she made is absolutely beautiful. Many of us think she needs to put this one in the Annual Needle Work show.

Karlyn.....come on......you can do it!!! Your work is absolutely beautiful and it will inspire other's to stitch and show their work too.

The colors and the beautiful stitches are just lovely. I liked the variegated thread used to make the alphabet.

The gals in this guild are so friendly and welcoming. If you like to stitch or would like to learn to stitch and live in the area join us for our next meeting on Sept. 9th at 6:30. Check out the guild website for directions to the new location for the meetings.

I met some of the ladies from this group a year ago when they had their Needlework Show at the Sanger Branch Library. I saw a woman doing punchneedle and that is what started me doing punchneedle embroidery.

On September 25th and 26th (Friday & Saturday) the Toledo Needle Arts Guild holds it's 34th Annual Needlework Show at the Sanger Branch Library. Come and see all the lovely needle arts projects. I will be there on Friday from 10am until 2:30....come by and say howdy.

Smiles,

Kelly

Amy Butler Spanky Name Badge Challenge

I have offered to give away 4 bag tags (one of my favorite MJE designs) to those who were willing to post to their blog about the Amy Butler Spanky Name Badge Challenge. This is like a press release in the bloggy-sphere (foggy-sphere for me right now...it is 5 AM :).



One thing I so rudely overlooked is that there are many fine people out there, including Linda (who left me a friendly reminder) who don't have a blog. I apologize for my oversight....so here you go Linda.....e-mail 5 friends who sew/stitch/create and tell them about this challenge and leave a comment saying you e-mailed 5 friends and I'll put your name in the drawing.

If there is anyone out there who does not have 5 friends on their e-mail list...call me on my private line....this could be a sign you have a personal barrier I may be able to help you overcome :)


Apologetic Smiles,
Kelly

Giveaway Alert : Amy Butler Bag Tags

Who wants to win 4 Bag Tags made from Amy Butler Fabric? I'll make you 4 Bag Tags that will look like this except they will be made in Amy Butler Fabric (my choice of pattern...using up my stash). How do you get them? All you have to do is blog about my "Amy Butler Spanky Name Badge Challenge."

This is the link:

http://ihaveanotion.blogspot.com/2009/08/more-fun-at-i-have-notion.html

Just copy and past it into your blog post!!!

You have to come back to this post and leave a comment that you did blog about the challenge and leave the link to your post.

I'll do the ole random number thing and select a winner. Thanks a million-bazillion-gillion-trazerazillion :)

Giveaway Smiles,

Kelly

PS: The bag tag shown at the top was not made or distributed by Old Navy. I re-purposed a piece of fabric that had this tag on it and I put it on there because my sense of humor told me to.

Details For The Fun :)

3 x 4 inches

I had to put the boys down for a nap. As I'm laying there trying to get them to quiet down....I'm thinking to myself....it might be nice if I let people know the exact size of the name badges they give us at Quilt Market. Helpful information ay?

Lame Brain Smiles,
Kelly

More Fun at I Have A Notion?

Yes sir-e-Bob....more fun here at I Have A Notion. While at Quilt Market in Pittsburgh this Spring I met Amy Butler.

When I saw Amy's booth it was exactly what I expected, bright, beautiful, fresh and full of AB fabrics and creations. I did not know what Amy Butler actually looked like because I had never met her. It was a fun surprise to see how tall she was/is and what a warm welcoming smile she had. Amy did not know me from Adam/Stella but she took the time to say hello and take a photo with her. Her staff were so friendly....what a fun bunch of gals.



What I did not expect to see was a plastic name badge on an elastic cord hanging around Amy's neck. Everyone who attends Quilt Market needs to wear their name badge of course.....and these are what the conference provides....plastic with an elastic cord. Mind you I'm not complaining..... however I see many of these people as the front edge of the Quilting/Fabric/Designing/Creative textile world.



This is the plastic name badge holder provided. I'm not sending pix of mine so you won't have "pre-disposed" ideas ....you create something new and different :)

The four of us from I Have A Notion were sporting our spanky name badges and I thought Amy Butler needed a spanky one too. So in my usual style....I asked why a girl like her with "it all go-in on" was sporting a plastic name badge. Thankfully she did not ask me to leave her booth...LOL. Then it dawned on me....these folks spend all their time prep-ing to just get to Market with all their lines and displays....who has time to make spanky name badges.

Problem solved.

I Have A Notion is hosting a challenge.....You get to design Amy Butler and her teams name badges. Yes you!!! How fun is that? All you have to do is design one, a prototype and submit a photo or photos to me. I'll forward all photos to Amy and she will decide which she likes the best. Then you will be sent fabric from her latest line to make 6 identical badges. Everyone in the AB booth will be wearing your personally designed name badges. Oh yea baby!!!

What is in it for you?

One, the pride in seeing your name badges on Amy Butler and her staff. (I plan on taking lots of pix in Houston) Two, your name posted here on I Have A Notion as a "Spanked Out Designer." These four patterns, Stationary and some surprise goodies from Amy.

Are you in?

Here's the skinny:

Design one name badge using any fabric you have in your stash. The design is what she is looking for....not the fabric at this point. Submit photos to IHaveANotion@yahoo.com by Thursday Aug. 27th at 9:00 AM. For your prototype you do not need to put the plastic window in the badge holder. I will forward all the photos to Amy and her staff. The winner will be announced on Monday Aug. 31st right here on IHAN blog. Amy Butler's staff will ship out fabric from her latest line and you will have until Sept. 25th to complete the 6 name badges (all the same using the AB fabric sent to you) and return them to ABDesigns. (return postage will be covered) I know it is a tight time line already. What I know is the more time a person has to do something....the more thinking goes into the process. Don't stress, "Just Do It."

This challenge is only open to US residents. Wipe your tears Khris....I'm sorry.....but given the tight time line shipping fabric back and forth won't allow time to get everything ready in time for these fun gals to be sporting their badges in Houston in October.

Who's in? E-mail me with your name, address and phone number if you want to be included in the challenge. In the title of your e-mail please write: Amy Butler Spanky Name Badge Challenge :)

How about you tell others about this challenge? Blog about it....go ahead....I double dog dare you:)

Smiles, Kelly

PS....if you are selected to make the 6 Spanky Name Badge Holders I will send you the vinyl if you can not find some.

Roc-Lon Challenge Update : Challenge is Closed

We have 30 people who have committed to participating in the Roc-Lon Multi-Purpose Cloth challenge. Your cloth will be sent on Aug. 18 and as soon as you receive it....you can start your creation. No rules....just make anything you desire with the 8 1/2 x 11 inch cloth you will receive!!!

I've been in contact with some pretty awesome people for those prizes.....if I told you who they are....you might guess what you are getting......so I'm not going to spill the beans. You already know Roc-Lon is giving lots of really awesome fabrics....but you don't know about the Surprise Gift Package from I Have A Notion. Actually, I lied. Some of the things will be from me....but lots of wonderful things will be coming from people and companies I've contacted and asked for some lovely stuff. (I'd ask the Pope for his coffee....no problems asking for just about anything...LOL)

I know something you don't know....do da....I know something you don't know....do da do da day!!!

I'm not telling...so don't even pressure me....I won't break down....no matter what!!! Not even if I'm given truth serum....nope....not even if you threaten to with hold chocolate from the entire state of Ohio. Not going to happen. Give clues...maybe...I'll think about it :)

I need a photo or photos of your completed work by Friday, Sept. 4th at 9:00 AM. I think it would be nice to include a few sentences describing your work too....that is always nice, don't you think?

Tight Lipped Smiles,
Kelly

Roc-Lon Multi-Purpose Cloth Challenge-Deadline Sunday at Midnight

Last chance to get into the challenge. It is going to be lots of fun. If by chance you have not heard about the challenge yet....click on the photo above and it will take you to all the juicy details.

Midnight tonight is the last opportunity to toss your name in the hat to be part of the challenge. It is not some high-fluten (no clue how to spell that word...but high gluten I do know!) challenge....it is a welcoming...lets have fun....play a bit....commit to doing something creative sort of challenge. You won't be featured on Dancing with the Stars or 48 Hours or anything like that....it will be much better....cuz you'll be featured here....a kinder, gentler sort of place.....ahhhh feel the Cottonelle now.

Smiles,
Kelly

Green Fairy Quilt Charity Update Saturday Edition

It sure was hot here in Ohio today. I am hot and stinky. By chance I've not eaten since this morning. I'm so hungry I could eat almost anything right now. Amazing perspective gained for what it must be like day after day for those in Romania that Judi and her husband are going to feed. I did not intend to do this....but it sure is a lesson.

I'm sure you are tired of hearing me ramble...you want to know the amount raised today don't you? I knew it. Are you ready for this? No you are not....sit down....(you're probably sitting down...lol)...today the total was Two Hundred Forty Two dollars and Fifty Seven cents. Grand total: 500.44.....now that I can get excited about. 500 Hundred Dollars.....in just three days!!! Amazing isn't it.

I want to say to everyone who has commented or e-mailed me about what a great thing I've done......my contribution was some elbow grease, I sent out two sets of e-mails, and I had 30 copies made (my husband actually did this) to hand out at the garage sale. I did donate some of my things to the sale....but not nearly as much as others donated. It is not me....not Kelly that is amazing...I promise you that. It is the generous donations of others that made this all possible. It was my neighbor who came on Thursday night to unload a pick-up truck because my husband and I both were away. It was my girlfriends neighbor who donated an entire truck load of wonderful belongings to the sale. It was my Mother who drove down to help look after my boys so I could do the sale. It was every customer who came and purchased something. Please don't tell others or even comment that it was me.....I was a part of the event....that is all...nothing more or less. I certainly am excited about what was accomplished and I'm overjoyed that Judi and Clint Madsen, Green Fairy Quilts, are going to Romania to take quilts and feed hungry people with the money that a group of us in Ohio are donating.

Most days I have 100 - 150 visitors to this blog. I was thinking as I was writing this post.....what if everyone who reads this blog would go to Judi and Clint's website and donate just 3.40. I checked paypal and for Judi to receive the full 3.00 you would have to send the extra 40 cents....less than the price of a stamp. That would be an additional 300.00. Please consider clicking on the Green Fairy Quilts link above in blue and donating 3.40.

I'm off to eat a big dinner....I'm starvin marvin.

Smiles,

Kelly