We just returned from our annual motorhome vacation to the Southwest. We had a great time with the grandkids and enjoyed some warmer weather (and rain) and met some fabulous quilters.
While in Ridgecrest California, I presented a trunk show to the ladies of the High Desert Quilt Guild. I came away from there with new ideas to share with my home guild. I always LOVE to see all the projects in show and tell.
TIP OF THE DAY: I don't backstitch on a seam if that seam is going to be crossed by another, as in joining parts of a block. But to prevent the first or last couple of stitches from unraveling before stitching the next seam, I take a couple of stitches before the needle goes into the fabric and stitch a couple extra stitches beyond the fabric.
IDEA,IDEA,IDEA: I've been toying with an idea for a long time and finally tried it out. I used cotton and flannel together in the quilt top. I hadn't ever seen it done anywhere. It worked GREAT. WHY? 1. I used quality fabric. Thimbleberries to be exact! The flannel needs to be woven tightly so you don't have to worry about raveling or about weight differences. 2. The cotton fabric is firm enough, that it keeps the flannel from stretching. The LOOK and FEEL is great! I used the same cotton fabric for all background pieces and the flannel for all the accent pieces. (Star points and Irish Chain. See Gallery Photo) Would this be a good idea for a book????? Maybe. Let me know what you think.
If you are traveling through the northern Minnesota area, stop by our newest shop, Treasure Makers, in Remer (HY 200). This is a shop worth visiting. Teri's models are "TO DIE FOR". She is a great quilter and a real fun lady. She admits "she is a stitch!"
While I am at it, let me tell you of another little gem. Stop at the 'Roadside' in Hill City(Hy 200 & 169). From the outside you'll think its a gas station. But go inside. Elaine has laid claim to one corner for quilting 'stuff'. Here you'll find fabrics, books, models, and the best bargain on notions I've seen! Elaine also hosts a weekly get together of the 'Over the Hill Quilters'.
Don't stop there, visit ABC of Quilting in Grand Rapids(HY 2 & 169) and Heart to Hands in Deer River(Hy 2). Tiger Textiles in Grand Rapids(1st Ave & 2nd St.NW) doesn't really call herself a 'quilt shop' but she does have quilt supplies. Grand Rapids is also the home of 'Loon Country Quilters". We meet the third Tuesday of each month in the Grand Rapids Town Hall on Pokegama Ave. If you've never visited this area, come, stay awhile, enjoy all that the area has to offer.
'Till next time,
Happy Stitching, Julie
