Shirley at The Marsh Store

Everything Goes Bag

2012-01-28T18:51:00.000-08:00

How different can one bag be?!

We worked on Brenda's 'Everything Goes Bag' yesterday and today. These bags need a little topstitching around the top and some buttons but so far they are looking pretty great!

Michelle's heading down south soon and wanted something lighter. It makes me thing of spring.

Sharon's is striking and prefect for taking to work. For a beginner quilter she did a great job.

We needed another store sample so I made this one. We have the same fabric with black background which would be striking but this one is more party friendly. It's for the girl who needs to bring everything to the party... makeup, shoes, snacks, phone, tablet, change of clothes ( and I'm thinking of those of us who need a clean shirt because we didn't wear our glasses and misjudged the spoon trajectory), etc.

I have another one on the go to replace the Christmas one I am still carrying but will post a photo when it is almost done. This pattern is one of 'Among Brenda's Quilts' by Brenda Miller.

Buy One Get One Free... at the Sale Price!

2012-01-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

When the weather is wintery and unpredictable I spend more time thinking in the store. It develops into an overwhelming need to sort and clean out.

some fat quarters

some bolts

Now that inventory is done there are lots of bolts on the sale shelf. In fact, we expanded to the carpenter's box by the rocking chair. The fabric is priced at $9.99 or less so you get 2 metres for that price.
Then came the fat quarters. All $2.00 sale fat quarters are buy one at the sale price and get a second one free. Or, $1.00 each.

a pile of panels

Just a start on patterns

Last week Anne got into sorting the panels. Lots went to the $4.00 sale panel basket so they are buy one and get the second sale panel free. At $2 a panel, there are lots that would work as bazaar items.
Now, I am on to the patterns. They are marked down to $4.00, with the second one free.
What's next? Maybe some notions...
I loved everything when it was ordered but things got hidden or overlooked, are the end of a line or after a trend. For you, it's a great time to stock up for backings, exchanges, donation quilts or bazaars. For us, it is time to make room for the new items on order!

Inventory and Sale Fabric

2012-01-03T09:48:00.000-08:00

At the end of a fiscal year one is required to do a physical count of one's inventory. Since I'm the one who thought it was a good idea to order the vast amjority of this stuff I can't complain. The snowstorm and nasty weather yesterday and this morning has meant most staff stayed home and safe, thank goodness, but I have had time to work my way through. The chopping room is completely finished and I will have the pattern room done by morning. Ela was here yesterday so we counted all the fat quarters in the store and a few other things.
What this means for our fabulous customers is the shelves are well organized. I've arranged the bolts in fabric lines more. Doesn't it look nice!

To make everything fit some bolts have to go to the sales rack. These are the bolts from the chopping room that are going...

You may have figured out this blog entry is my way of taking a break. If this keeps up I won't get done today. Better get back to work.....

PS The chopping room got its name because the Marsh family chopped wood for the store wood stoves back before furnaces. The floor is pretty rough.

Happy New Year!

Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2011-12-28T07:40:00.000-08:00

The sale started yesterday and there was quite a crowd. Today there is a snow streamer coming off the lake so a narrow area is expecting 10-15 cm of snow. The rest of the area will get less than 4 cm. So it is a little quieter today but we are Canadian and it can take heavy snow to stop us! Nellie will be digging in the snowdrifts soon.

The sale is 30% off all in-stock items: fabric, notions, books, thread and batting. We have to count whatever is left starting January 1.

Last But Not Least

2011-12-24T05:29:00.000-08:00

Wishing you the happiest of everything. No matter which holiday you celebrate, may it bring you together with friends and family. These are the people you quilt for and want to wrap in your warm quilty hugs wherever they are. Your quilts are the way you go with them and try to keep them warm and safe.
We are off today to spend time with family. We are at that stage where there are little ones again to remind us of Christmas past and make us look to the future.
The store is closed but, as a last minute present, you could make someone call, leave a message with phone number so we can call later to get a credit card number for the gift certificate you can pick up at the store during the sale.
Closed until Tuesday December 27 when the 30% off everything sale starts.

Merry Quilting!!

Monthly Programs

2011-12-23T04:47:00.000-08:00

Just one more reminder we areclosed tomorrow. It is the first regularworking day we will be closed in 7 years. We are closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

One more idea today. We have a couple Block of the Month programsnext year. ‘Ginger Rose’ is an 8 monthprogram from Andover Fabrics and designed by Nancy Murty. Each month you receive a pattern and fabric. The first 6 months are blocks. You make 2 of each block. Month seven is the sashing and month 8 is theoutside borders. The cost will be $23per month. You are welcome to come and sewhere once a month at no additional cost.

The second program uses Stonehengefabric. Here is what Northcott saysabout the program:

Northcott has partnered with From Marti Michell to create a BOMprogram that is the best of both worlds: Marti’s tried-and-tested comprehensiveprogram combined with our outstanding Stonehenge fabrics, in two show-stoppingcolorways – Neutral & Brights. In either color combination, thisdouble/queen-size quilt is sure to take center stage in any room. The suggestedstart date is April 2012, but sign-ups start now at your favorite quilt shop.We hope you enjoy this special program as much as we enjoyed putting ittogether. It promises to be a real winner!

I'm waiting for the information and store sample kit to arrive. When that happens I will be able to determine the cost.

Time to Relax and Sit Upon

2011-12-22T05:34:00.000-08:00

Reminder that we are closedChristmas Eve to spend time with family. The sale starts on Tuesday December 27 and ends Saturday December31. Every regular priced item in stockis 30%0ff.

As I write I am testing the‘Gypsy Sit Upon’. It still feels strangebut I can feel my core strengthening as I wiggle around. If it works like the packages says I may beable to plan my massage therapist visits a little farther apart. It says:

A softly inflatedflexible disc used in chair seats to prevent fatigue, reduce pressure on thetail-bone, and help relieve lower back pain, while strengthening the coremuscles and improving posture. The Sit Upon can be used on hard or soft chairs,recliners, car seats - anywhere you sit for long periods of time! The Sit Uponshould be placed in the chair with its smooth side facing down. The side withknobby texture allows air flow for cooler seating and promotes improved bloodcirculation. Because it is filled with air, it will stay soft and comfortable,and "one size fits all"!

I think I need to get morecomfortable on it before trying to do piecing that requires accuracy. Wiggle one way and you could end up with awobbly seam…lol... but it is fun. Last night I tried it on my sewing chair and then upstairs on a soft chair. It felt like it kept my spine aligned a little better but I will need to keep using it to feel longer benefits.

Idea Source

2011-12-21T05:17:00.000-08:00

Reminder we are closed onSaturday December 24. We will reopen onTuesday December 27 for our year end sale.

Days are passing quickly andshopping time is shorter. There is stilltime to pick up stocking stuffers. Printout previous posts or email them to your loved ones who are still stumped as towhat a quilter would like to receive.

I went grocery shopping for, Ihope, the last time before the big day. As always I checked out the magazine aisle. Several new winter issues are out so there isa good chance you can suggest a magazine to that last minute shopper who doesn't have time to get to your favourite quilt shop.

We carry the new Winter issue of‘Quilter’s Connection Magazine’, a Canadian magazine.

Or, there was one at the grocerystore called ‘Quilt Trends’ which says it is the premier issue. No matter the title, a magazine always features the newest fabrics and techniques to inspire you.

More Specialty Rulers

2011-12-20T05:27:00.000-08:00

Creative Grids has been makingrulers for a while now. You recognizethem because they are clear plastic with black markings. There are fuzzy looking circles on theunderside which have texture to keep the ruler from slipping.

So now they are creatinginteresting specialty rulers for those who have all the basics and are looking forsomething different. I ordered threeof the double strip rulers last summer but didn’t have much chance to try them so I took the 60⁰ ruler to theretreat in November. I figured this onemight appeal to those crazy quilters making the ‘One Block Wonder’ quilts (makemultiple hexagons from a large print fabric). Youcould cut multiple stacks without moving the ruler. The strips would be cut 4 ½”.

When I read the instructions Idiscovered the ruler is designed to use with 2 ½” strips. Sew two strips together and use the ruler tocut out accurate triangles. The toppoint is missing, i.e. flat, so matching triangles is much easier. I sewed together the two strips, cut the unitinto two pieces 20” long and inverted one strip over the other, butting theseam allowances. I was able to cutpairs. The hexagons went togethernicely. To build them into a wallhangingI cut background triangles the same size and used markings on the ruler to cuthalf triangles to finish each row. Iadded a small border in the background colour and a wider outer border. Here is what I came up with:

There is a double strip ruler for45^o kaleidoscope blocks, perfect for traditional kaleidoscope orspider web quilts. In a new flyer arenew rulers for Storm At Sea, Drunkard’s Path and others. You can check them out at www.checkerdist.com Go to the Notions tab, click, click onVendors, click on the letter C and choose Creative Grids from the list. I will be ordering from this US supplier inJanuary so let me know if there is something you need for one of theforthcoming snow days…

I decided Nellie needed a special pillowcase for her store pillow and made it yesterday. Here is Nellie trying it out. Notice she is cuddling a matching squeaky toy.

Buttons

2011-12-19T06:18:00.000-08:00

What do buttons have to do with quilting and why would a quilter want buttons in her stocking? Maybe not every quilter would but there are quite a few of us who would love it. Buttons are little and don't take much storage. One button costs less than a metre of fabric and most fat quarters.

Growing up we had a red plastic cigar container that held buttons. Those buttons were memories of clothing worn and made. They provided hours of fun sorting and sharing stories of their origin. Many families saved buttons from old clothing in case one was needed to repair a clothing item.

Later, I moved out and met Tim. I didn't have my own button container so when we were at an auction I bid on someone else's collection. I thought one of the 4 containers would be enough but the auctioneer put them up as one lot. I was the lucky winner, taking home all four! There were 8126 buttons in all. (Not that I took the time to count them all!)

Since then I have added more from yard sales and other auctions. Old sewing boxes and machine cabinets store all kinds of button surprises. In July 2004 we purchased the store but didn't start the quilt shop until March 2005. During January and February the antique business at the store was slow so I took the time to sort my button collection into colours. Now, whenever someone comes in and asks about buttons, we pull out the jars. After dumping the buttons into a tray, the customer can pick out the perfect ones. Fill a bag for $1.

This fall I made Brenda's 'Everything Goes Bag". She added a D-ring as a decorative element on the pocket but all I could think of adding was buttons. However most of the buttons in my collection are small for such a grand bag. So I had to add more large buttons. Dill makes a line of funky large plastic buttons so we started an inventory of them.

So at your family celebrations this season why not pull out the button jar and share stories for the next generation to take with them.

Gift of Time

2011-12-18T05:37:00.000-08:00

What quilter couldn't use more time? Now you are visiting friends and quilters bring along your calendar and plan to spend some time with them next year.

March 23-25, 2012     Material Girls Retreat                  $250

Spend your days sewing and laughing with quilters. Cost includes 2 nights accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfast, meals and snacks on Saturday, individual sewing table, retreat project and more. Hosted at the Cambridge Conference Centre. Sew all day and all night if you can. No cooking, no housework, just a ton of fun.

April 12-14, 2012     Quilter's Shop Tour

Book these dates with a car load of friends and tour the area quilt shops. Each of the nine stores will feature 20% off regular priced fabrics. Pick up a free pattern at each store. Get your passport stamped to win the $1000 Grand Prize (about $110 to each store), the west $500 prize or the east $400 prize. Each store has a daily prize worth $50, ballot with purchase.
I have been ordering new fabrics with April events in mind.

April 26-28, 2012      Piecemakers Quilt Show            St Marys ON

I am a member of the Huron-Perth guild and am looking forward to being a vendor there too....five minutes later...better get going! I have a few things to finish and get registered in January or February...yikes...

May 1-5, 2012      Quilts of Denmark                    Ailsa Craig ON

The Ailsa Craig Community Quilt Festival group are bringing the quilts and quilters of Denmark to our area this May. Look for more information and book workshops through www.ailsacraigquiltfestival.ca

July               Yours To Discover Shop Hop

Plan now by starting at www.yourstodiscovershophopwebc.com

That should be enough for now. Looks like we are in for tons of fun this spring!

More Little Tools

2011-12-17T05:09:00.000-08:00

Last week a notions sales repdropped in so I ordered a few new things to blog about.

1. Heirloom Crease Marker- it’s a Hera marker made of plastic. Quilters use them to mark a temporaryquilting line when marking as you go. Itcan be used for creasing fabric folds or paper folds. It can be used for rubbing on stencils orstickers. $5.99

2. Heirloom Finger Presser- often seem in woodbut this one is plastic. A quilter willuse it to hand press seams until she feels like going to the ironing board. It is useful for folding and pressing by handwhen paper piecing. $5.99

3. LEDLighted Tweezer and Magnifier- earlier Iincluded magnifying tweezers but these go one step farther. The package says ‘handy lighted tweezers forhome, craft and hobbies. I like the ideaof using it for beading. $9.99

4. SulkyTool Kit- as they say on the website “contains every toolthe home sewer most frequently uses and needs. All in one convenient,easy-to-pack and carry kit. No more searching for your tools. They will beright within reach or with you all the time whenever you need them.” $32.95

Some day I'll figure out how to get all these pictures lined up nicely. Have a great day!

Quick! I Need a Gift!

2011-12-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

We have so many shop samples with fabric that is no longer available or ideas we are done featuring. If you need a finished item, let us help you. Prices are below reasonable and cost of materials. There are some unquilted samples for those with the time to quilt. Here are a few:

4 placemats $15

Bagette $10

$20

Tablerunner quilted by Tim
$15

That's a few of the possibilities. They will be available during the sale,Tuesday December 27 to Saturday December 31, along with a number of others. We would appreciate your help in reducing the number of store samples. Thank you!

Rulers + BlocLoc

2011-12-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

A quilter can never have enough rulers. After the basic rectangles and squares, you start to collect special shapes. For the beginner, here is the order to suit many projects:

6 1/2" by 24", 12 1/2" square, 6 1/2" square, 3 1/2" by 24", 4 1/2" square if you like working small, 20 1/2" square

After that you can collect rulers suited projects. There are hundreds of rulers and templates to collect.

However, if you are experiencing challenges, here are some rulers to help you trim to size for bias squares and flying geese. I know I have trouble cutting and accurately piecing those squares and triangles with fractions having 8 on the bottom- 5/8" 7/8". So I sew them bigger and trim them to the perfect size. No one knows and I can be more accurate at the next step. Three years ago at Quilt Market in Pittsburgh we met a couple selling their own brand called BlocLoc. They designed and manufactured themselves. This fall they were at a trade show in Toronto and now have a Canadian distributor so the rulers will be more accessible to Canadian quilters. They say

Bloc_Loc™ is a revolutionary new channel technology to allow you to accurately "square-up" a half square triangle block while eliminating slipping and ruler rock completely.
Flying Geese:1.5" x 3" Flying Geese Square up ruler. Fitted with the Bloc_Loc groove Locks on to both seam allowances at the same time. Square up your Flying Geese blocks in less time and with far greater accuracy every time! Works on all Flying Geese block methods. You will never take the top of a Goose again!! 1/4" seam allowance all the way round. Mistake free!!

Check them out at www.blocloc.com There you can see the video demonstration. We have a variety of ruler sizes and combinations. I'd love to demonstrate.

PS I am a little late today as I attended the Poplar Hill Lions Ham and Turkey Bingo last night. Unfortunately I didn't win a ham or a turkey. As Tim says, it would have been cheaper just to buy one at the grocery store. But then you aren't supporting the work the Lions do in our community. Maybe at the Easter bingo.

Time To Learn

2011-12-14T05:55:00.000-08:00

A quilter needs to give herselfthe best gift of all, time to learn. Noauthor, artist or composer created their best work without years of study,learning and development. It becameapparent to me when reading and looking at the life work of Picasso. He took years to develop his technique, goingthrough periods of exploration to determine and create his greatest works. When I see a name on a class list or whensomeone registers for a class, I think ‘What can I teach her?’ Turns out she is taking the class because itis a technique or skill she wants to learn more about and see if it issomething that will become a part of her style. Or, sometimes we just want to have fun with other quilters.

Everyone is at a different placein their journey as a quilter. Beginnersshould be encouraged to enjoy their progress and not compare their work to thequilter who has tons of experience. Aquilter who makes exquisite log cabins may take an applique class for the firsttime. You can always try it and decide if it is the first and last project you will ever make in that technique (insertfeathered star blocks for me). Maybe quilting is a way for us to connect to and make friends with in a less stressful way than with family and work.

This time of year with its long days and dull weather makes me think too much. (see above). Yesterday I started cleaning and sorting. Three bags of books that all friends have read, three bags of toiletries and gifts from the gifts-just-in-case-we-need-something stash to the women's shelter and 2 bags of magazines to the guild made little dent. Today I will lighten the load of stuff some more. Tomorrow will be interesting new tools.....promise!

Pillowcases

2011-12-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

Pillowcases are a big thing since some smart cookie figured out theeasier way to sew them. Called the hotdog, sausage or burrito method, this technique makes fast sewing of the topcuff. Sew a French or enclosed seam downthe side and along the bottom to finish it off. Email us at themarshstore@execulink.comfor the directions or search on YouTube for a video.

The London Friendship Quilters’ Guild made a huge pile of pillowcasesfor a residential home for children. Each child having to stay gets his/her own unique pillowcase to remindthem someone is thinking about them and cares.

I make pillowcases to use as wrapping paper for toys. I tie it closed with ribbon. It takes as long to unwrap as paper, you canput the toys back in the case to tidy up and the recipient has a good qualityfabric pillowcase to last the year. Ialso recommend them as a couch napping pillowcase. When we had room for an actual couch I made aflannel pillowcase and enjoyed many a Sunday afternoon nap on it.

Do you have trouble thinking of gifts for young men? We have football, hockey, soccer, basketball,skateboarding and gaming fabric so you can make them a single or pair ofpillowcases. Anne made up some pillowcasekits in football team colours. She madea sample in her Denver Bronco team colours.

Pillowcases are a great beginner sewing project. So if you are teaching young ones to sew, itis simple and useful.

We have put all Christmas fabric,patterns, whatever, on sale for 30% off the regular price. That makes the Christmas pillowcase kits$6.30 plus tax. Since you can sew themup in 15 minutes you can have enough made for wrapping awkward shaped gifts inno time.

Thread, Thread and More Thread

2011-12-12T05:18:00.000-08:00

A quilter can never have enough thread. No matter what you use, always choose thebest quality you can afford. The oldsaying ‘You get what you pay for’ applies to thread. Why spend hours on a quilt you treasure anduse cheap thread that will break, deteriorate or wear the fabric? You can never have enough thread so it issomething your giver will know you are going to use, especially on projectsthat use a much thread in reverse sewing as straight ahead stitching.

So the question is ‘What is the best kind of thread?’ The first answer is always, ‘Whatever kindyour machine likes.’ Somehow each sewingmachine works better with one brand of thread than another. It has little to do with the manufacturerbecause the same brand of machine can work best with different brands ofthread. If a project is not going wellwith one thread and you have tried the list of fixes (rethread the machine,change the machine needle, clean the bobbin and bobbin casing), switch to a differentbrand. You never have to blame yourselfagain. Give the spool to the cat to playwith or use it for basketball practise. Try something different and tell the sewing machine how much happier itwill be. One reason we carry King Tutand not Sulky Blendables is the longarmmachine has a definite preference.

I prefer to sew with cotton thread. I like the way it feels and it never meltswith a hot hot iron. But there aredifferent weights to thread. There is noindustry standard for weights but something with a 50wt is great forpiecing. If you are sewing straightlines any 50 wt will do. If you aresewing multiple points that meet in the middle, Superior Masterpiece isdefinitely a finer 50wt so it really takes up less room in the seamallowance. If you are sewing 8 pointedstars and are blaming the fabric for all your troubles, try switching to afiner thread. It’s amazing what adifference it makes. I’ve even set asidemy cotton fixation and used a Wonderfil DecoBob 80wt thread. But then, going back to the saying aboutbuying the best you can afford will lead you to Silk 100wt by Superior. You could even be tempted to try a Mariner’sCompass!

There is machine quilting thread and hand quiltingthread. There are metallic threads andrayon threads. My head is nowspinning. There is so much to know andtell. I’ll save the rest for blogs inthe new year. Hmm… how about some demodays or play dates?!

A Little Means a Lot

2011-12-11T05:34:00.001-08:00

Last Thursday evening the store was invited to bring our wares to sell at the London Friendship Quilters' Guild. Thanks to Anne for her help!
Not only were we able to meet with quilting friends but we got to witness their generosity as well. Members brought in a stack of placemats to donate to 'Meals on Wheels' in London. The recipients will get a beautiful placemat to enjoy through the long winter days, knowing someone is thinking about them. I forget the total number but it has to be close to 100. The stack had too many for one person to carry.
Placemats are quick to make up to show someone you care about them. I'm thinking about a senior without a partner or a couple who don't have family near by, a student or young person on their own, the frazzled single mother who is your favourite cashier or anyone who needs to know someone takes time to think about them. They only need one or 2 placemats, not the whole matching set of table decor.
I like making placemats out of fat quarters with no binding. I get to interact with fabrics I love but will never make into a quilt, try a new machine quilting pattern and use up bits and pieces of batting that are too small for other projects but too big to discard (can't bring myself to say 'throw out'). Here's how:
1. Take the number of fat quarters you want to use for the tops. I use 4, 6 or 8 but you could use 3, 5, etc if they are not being given as a set. Press, stack and press together. Eight is a pile is tricky so use a new large cutting blade.
2. On paper, draw rectangles to represent the finished size of placemat. If making 4 placemats, divide to rectangle into 4 sections, unevenly. If 6, divide into 6. If 8, divide into 8. Choose the one you like best as the master pattern.

3. Cut the pile of fat quarters into the pieces of your place. Shuffle the piles. Leave pile one alone. From pile two, take the top fabric and move to the bottom. On pile three, take the top 2 fabrics and move them to the bottom of the pile. On pile four, take the top three fabrics and move them to the bottom. Continue this way until all piles are shuffled so each placemat has one of each fabric.

4. Each layer is a placemat. Sew the pieces back together. You may have to trim some edges to make them even but this is not an exact method and all placemats don't have to be identical.

5. Trim all placemats to be the same size. We have a 20.5" ruler to make it easier.

6. I like to layer the batting, back right side up and top right down on the backing. Sew around the outside edge, leaving an opening to turn through to the right side. Trim batting to seamline. Turn. Press and topstitch around the outside edge 1/8" and the 1/4" for stability.

7. Machine quilt. I like to try different designs. I don't do much machine quilting so I like to try different ideas. In a hurry, I go zig zaggy all over.

Here are 4 fat quarters. They are quilted in rectangles (presents), tress, icicles and ski slopes (wavy overall)

Here are 6 fat quarters. I still want to try 8. I figure they would look good placed in the middle of a table for a modern style tablerunner look.

So makes lots, give away many and know you have brightened some one's world.

Children's Book Fabric

2011-12-10T05:26:00.001-08:00

Quilters tour quilt shops looking for fabric. Shop owners choose from thousands and thousands of swatches to build a selection of fabric for their store. It stands to reason each shop has a different selection based on the owners' preference and how she/he sees the world. Personally, I cannot work in pastels or little prints. I try to order some for the store but with limited success. If you visit The Marsh Store you will see this when looking at baby fabrics. I look at the lines of beautiful baby fabrics but can't make a decision so go to the brights and feel at home.
Having spent most of my elementary teaching career in the school library means I can decide on fabrics that are book or game related. I am so happy quilt fabric manufacturers are finding and printing work by popular authors and illustrators on fabric. What a great way to connect a child's environment to traditional books and get her/him hooked on reading. You still have time to make all your favourite little ones a pillowcase from bookish fabric. Here are some to choose from:

Eric Carle- The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug

Eric Hill- Spot the dog books, popular with younger ones

Noddy- from the British series

Veggie Tales- also on television

Dr Seuss- Cat In the Hat, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

Berenstain Bears- charm squares and layer cakes with bolts due in February

Thomas the Train- I'll be making pillowcases to wrap some Christmas gifts but don't tell...

I best get off and sewing.

Scissors of All Sorts

2011-12-09T05:38:00.001-08:00

Scissors are a great gift for quilters to give or receive. They are the one gift you can get in multiples and keep. You need scissors in your sewing basket, in your workshop kit, by your sewing chair and for travelling. You need scissors for fabric, paper and special projects. You need snips, shears and needle nosed. Here are some we have:

Pretty scissors

Applique Scissors

Little pretty scissors

Large Spring loaded

Great basic

You get the idea. Tools can be taken for granted so take time to clean your scissors blades. I've heard cutting paper doesn't dull scissors but does leave a coating on them which makes them feel less sharp. Wash with soap and water to remove the coating. I will put them in the oven on a very low temperature to dry any water that could cause rust. Turn on the oven no higher than 140|F, set the timer for 3-4 mintues and turn off the oven when the timer goes. That way you remember to turn the heat off. I leave the scissors in for awhile longer. Low temperature shouldn't melt plastic handles.

Little Things To Make Quilting Easier and Safer

2011-12-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here are a few little tools to make your work easier or less painful.

This is the Fons & Porter Luma Lighter. It makes threading machine needles a snap. This spring-loaded threader has an ergonomic soft grip handle that fits comfortably in the hand. An added feature is the LED light for better visibility. If your machine doesn't have a needle threader and you have reached a certain age, this is for you! It is $14.59

Tweezers with Magnifying Glass... and it's attached! No more looking for glasses. The tweezer part can swing away from the tweezers making the magnification larger. I think about removing the itty-bitty pieces of paper when paper piecing. Maybe I could use the tweezers to hold thick thread while I try to thread a needle. I would save looking for a second pair of glasses. Or finding and pulling out tiny bits of thread caught around the bobbin casing. Time and trouble savers for only $7.49.

Among Brenda's Quilts

2011-12-07T05:08:00.001-08:00

Brenda Miller has been a friend for years. I knew her as an artist through the Strathroy Art Group. She had worked at the store before she developed her pattern line that keeps her on the move these days.
On a trip to California Brenda dropped in to visit Hoffman fabrics and has established a working relationship with them. We get excited at the thought of free fabric but imagine it arriving with the expectation there will new quilts and bags created, made and the pattern published on a very short timeline! I wouldn't know where to start and would be totally overwhelmed. That usually results in little getting done.
This year Brenda has shown her versatility in designing embroidered quilts, strip friendly quilts and bags.

On Monday I started 'The Noel Advent Calendar'. If you are interested, rather than a traditional class, you could book a time to get started and come once a month to sit, stitch and work on the embroidery. When you are ready to go on, advice is available. Now that the long snowy days of winter are due to arrive it is a great time to start a handwork project. Snuggle under a quilt with a bright light close by and relax with a needle and thread.
We have 'Granny's Attic Toy Shop', 'Angels Watching Over Me' and 'Snow Angels Pillow' to try.
Check Brenda's video on YouTube and learn how easy these quilts are.

The 'Everything Goes Bag' is Brenda's newest bag pattern. There are pockets on the outside and enough pockets on the inside to carry all the modern technical devices (phone, netbook and tablet).

I made a Christmas version to take shopping. There is a zippered inside pocket for extra security too. A 'new to quilting' foam batting makes the outside firm so it sits up and is less floppy than other bags. The foam dried out really quickly when the strap didn't get entirely into the car and was driven close to the wet road from downtown London to the south end. Just so you know and don't have to try that yourself.

Go to Brenda's website, www.amongbrendasquilts.com to see the new 'Bali Cream Crackle' and 'Bali Fruit Swirl' using the new line of Bali Pops while I get breakfast.

Just Like Christmas

2011-12-05T19:02:00.001-08:00

Some days it's just like Christmas here. Months ago the sale reps came and fabulous fabrics were ordered. Time goes by, work gets done and suddenly, one day, the delivery truck pulls up to the door. A big heavy box comes in, all tightly wrapped and hiding its secrets. You try to remember what you put on the list, knowing the supplier could have sent all or part or just bits of what you want. It's such a surprise and just like Christmas. Today we got:

2 boxes of new Bali Pops: 6 Key Lime and 6 Watermelon. We still have Plum Pudding, Cherry, Blueberry and Coconut.
A Hoffman colour card for the over 360 Bali watercolours. Now we should be able to tell what colour sample you brought in and want to match!

Berenstain Bears charm packs and layer cakes from Moda. We ordered bolts of several prints but they aren't due for release until the new year, February.

and we received some bolts of this, with just three backorders.

Summer Breeze II by Sentimental Studios for Moda
Bask in the beauty of warm, sunny yellows, soft sky blues and deep cobalt as refreshing as a dip in the crisp, cool ocean waves. Flourishing florals, Jacobeans, and delightfully airy blossoms will whisk you away with the Summer Breeze.

I Love Books

2011-12-04T19:36:00.001-08:00

All kinds of books. When I was an elementary teacher I spent most of my years as a teacher-librarian. I marvelled that I got paid and a budget to go and buy books for all ages in all subject areas. I spent hours reading to children. So would you be surprised to know I have about as many books as some guild libraries? Now that we have a quilt shop I put all I learned about building a collection of library books into building a collection of fabric to suit a wide variety of quilters. I wish we could have one of every quilt book but there wouldn't be room for fabric, notions and patterns.
Today I want to tell you about 2 books that I think are great reference tools to help you learn about choosing colours and designing quilts.
"A Fiber Artist's Guide to Color and Design" by Heather Thomas for Landauer Publishing
         Landauer has been putting out a series of books on the basics and beyond which have hardcovers but spiral bound inside. This means the book lies flat as you are using it in your sewing room. I love the way Heather has laid out the sections with clear language and great pictures. She shows you all about colour with great quilts to show how each illustrates the use. Then she goes into the elements and principles of design. Finally there are practical workshops to let you experiment.

'Adventures In Design" by Joen Wolfren for C&T Publishing
        This would be your next step in developing skills to apply to quilt making. I will never get to this level but by reading the book and thinking how you might do the exercises has to help. You get a deeper understanding of the quilters who create the works of art on display at major quilt shows, seen online or enjoyed in print.

Lapel Stick-The Ultimate Accessory

2011-12-04T05:41:00.001-08:00

This company has been putting alot of effort into getting quilters to use their product this past year. And for good reason. As someone who is glue stick challenged (as I usually end up with my fingers glued together and the pieces not sticking) this is a very useful product. Rather than try to make up my own description, here is what the company says:

Ultimate Accessory for Quilters, Sewers, and Crafters

Temporary non-toxic acid-free fabric adhesive that goes on in seconds and dries clear for Quilting, Sewing, Crafting, and Embroidery - replaces baste stitching, pinning, tapes, spray adhesives, and stabilizers. No more messy sprays or getting stuck with pins and it won't gum up your needles or machines! LAPEL Stick is water soluble and safe to use on cottons, wool, polyester, blends, felt, linen, and leather.

Need I say more?! Good, because it is Sunday morning, my one day of the week off. I haven't had coffee yet, need to do some Christmas shopping, do laundry and get some groceries. Yikes, better run....

Frixion Pens

2011-12-02T19:31:00.001-08:00

What a lot of chatter has been generated by quilters using these pens! Pilot has been making these pens since 1986 (says their website) but some smart quilter introduced them to the world of quilting. They are thermo-sensitive gel pens which are removed from paper by friction or from fabric by heat. They come in a variey of colours but black and orange are the favourites at this shop. If you haven't been following their use in the quilt world here is an update:

1. Good news. A gel pen that marks on fabric and is easily removed by running a warm iron over it. Unlike water soluble pens, the ink is not set by heat. Anyone who has run a hot iron over the blue marking pen knows how hard it is to get rid of the lines.

2. Bad news. After spending time marking you decided to give the fabric a little press and removed all the lines!

3. Good news. The marks from Frixion pens reappear at -10C. Place your fabric in the freezer and all will reappear.

4. Bad news. The quilt you shipped by airmail to the quilt show arrived with all the pen marks showing.

5. Good news. We learned that all the pen marks will wash out and you have no marks to reappear. Wash quilts before shipping to shows.

That is the story so far. If there are any more developments we will be sure to hear. I still want to see if a hair dryer will remove the marks. If you were to arrive at a show with your lines showing, it could be an easy fix in the hotel room.

'Deck the Holly' Snap Sack

2011-12-01T17:54:00.001-08:00

Need a hostess gift in a couple of hours? Want a project you can start and finish just for fun? Snap Sacks include a pattern and fabric for a small project. All you add is thread, batting and time.
Anne made our sample of 'Deck the Holly'. It includes all the fabric for the top and a cute red backing. We have a demo die for the Accuquilt GO that cuts a Christmas tree, snowflake and holly with berries. So for this Snap Sack we even precut the holly leaves and berries, with WonderUnder on the back. Just peel, fuse and stitch! That will save you about 20 minutes.

Feel free to use your own stash and make enough for all your holiday social engagements. I was going to say you could start on next year's bazaar items but we don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves...but, then again, I have already ordered fabric for next Christmas.....

Welcome To December 2011

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's time again to think about holiday gifts for quilters to give and receive. There are some great new tools, gorgous new fabrics and wonderful new books and patterns. How can we have so much fun?!

My number one favourite new tool this year is Clover's Wonder Clips'. Clover says:
The Wonder Clips are great alternatives to pins, especailly when working with heavy weight fabrics, piles and vinyls. It can hold layered sections of sewing projects such as handle connectors to handbags and piping without distortion. It holds quilt bindings while sewing and it's easy to see and easy to find when dropped on the floor. Works well with Sergers!

I love them when making baskets or bags. They are like a clothespin and hold multiple layers in place. There is no shifting of layers as there is when pinning. For binding, they clamp on and have no sharp points. They say there are 1/4" and 1/2" markings on the flat bottom so you can line them up for even topstitching but I'm still working on perfecting that use. It may take awhile.

They come in packages of 10 or 50. At $7.99 for 10, they make a great hostess gift for quilting friends.

Getting Ready

2011-11-27T15:59:00.001-08:00

How time flies! Where did October and November go? I am getting ready to start the one-a-day posts for December.

Quilting Celebration

2011-09-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

Wedensday September 21
Komoka Community Centre
7 pm

Tomorrow night is our third annual evening to celebrate the start of a new year of quilting. The kids are back to school, the days are shorter and autumn is in the air. What better way to celebrate than to get together with friends to see what is new and what is coming up.
Joan for 'Sew Creative' in Mt Brydges and I have invited Betty Gormick our sales rep with the supplier N Jefferson. Betty will be showing us new items to spark our creativity. Joan and I will displaying samples for classes coming up this fall.
The proceeds from tickets sales are donated to the Rural Womens Resource Centre. In the past we have donated over $1000 which they have used to stock the food bank which supports families in our area.
Komoka Community Centre is near the water tower. It is by the Railway Museum on Queen Street. If coming from London, go out the Oxford Street extension and look for the new arean. Go to the next street and turn north.
I'm almost ready and getting excited!

Monday Labour Day

2011-08-30T09:10:00.000-07:00

We are closed for Labour Day.
Yesterday 5 boxes of new fabric arrived! There are more boxes on their way. Friday I went to QuiltSource for notions and patterns. Look for information and photos this week, after I go for dog food this afternoon.

Open Monday August 1

2011-07-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

FYI Anne is working on Monday so the store is open. Hopefully we can get things sorted after the sale and have new samples to post here soon.
Thanks to all who visited last week.

Anniversary Sale

2011-07-14T19:08:00.001-07:00

The sale runs from Monday july 25 to Saturday July 30. We open at 10 am and close at 5 pm. But on the first day we are ready by 9 am for those who have thier eye on something special.

If you are needing help with fabric for a project, some in next week and preselect your materials. We will have a kit made for pick up during the sale week. That way you get the help you need and we have the time to help you.

The sale is, once again, 30% off all regular priced items.

Rapid Fire Hunter's Star

2011-07-14T19:08:00.000-07:00

You may know that I am a fan of the Deb Tucker rulers for trimming bias squares and flying geese. Now I am a fan of the 'Rapid Fire Hunter's Star'. We are making samples so you can see the great possibilities.

I made the 'Masquerade' sample following Deb Tucker's pattern. The fabrics are from a new line by Kim Schaefer for Andover called 'Winter Wonderland'. It's suited to intermediate skill quilters but hides multiple misses.

Classes for this pattern to be scheduled for August.

Another New Sample

2011-06-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

Anne finished a sample from the 'Winterberry Lane' collection by Whimsicals for Red Rooster fabrics. Once in a while we get a more primitive collection and this one really appealed.

Anne used one panel section and a pattern 'Winterberry singles'.

We have kits made for 'down Winterberry Lane' which can be seen at www.redroosterfabrics.com under the current collections.

We have the full fabric line and have reordered the fabrics used most often in the patterns and book (of which we have 3 copies). So drop in for a look before they disappear.

Store Samples

2011-06-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

After an active May, it' taken time to get everything sorted and straightened. Now we are working on store samples for the next 2 seasons (I was going to name them but summer just started and I am reluctant to think about those two).

Today I finished this pillow using the 'Full Circle' fabric line and a Kathy Schmitz pattern. I got to use some of my button collection. It is fun to sift through jars of buttons looking for just the right ones.

I tried machine quilting with the Wonderfil line of heavy 12wt quilting thread. We have tried handquilting with it and love it. The pillow pattern called for jumbo rickrack, which we don't have, so I thought the heavy black thread for buttonhole stitch could work nicely. I had to change to a 100 topstitch needle to accommodate the thread but was pleased with the results after a couple of glitches. You can really see the dimension it adds on the back. Using the KISS principle, I followed fabric pattern lines for the quilting.

On to the next project....

Here We Go!

2011-05-23T19:22:00.001-07:00

May is flying by! Last week was so busy I didn't get a chance to write anything. This weekend I have been getting ready for 'Quilt Ontario' in London. Tim is helping take a load in tomorrow morning so I get our booth set up in the Merchants Mall.

I am so excited:

1) to see a National Juried Show. My last was about 1986.

2) to see the TrendTex Challenge. I participated about 4 or 5 times years ago but never got to see the pieces. The quilts are auctioned off so I have quilts all across Canada.

3) to vend at a Big Show.

At our booth:

1) see Gail demonstrate how to use the great Deb Tucker rulers, every day between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm.

2) have Brenda autograph your copy of any 'Among Brenda's Quilts' pattern. We have her latest and greatest for purchase, just in case. She will be in the booth on Friday at 2:30pm.

3) see patterns by Ursula Riegel who is coming from Victoria BC to teach this week. Her pattern line, Designs To Share With You, are likely part of your collection. See her newest and favourites.

Tim and I got to see the Quilts from the Netherlands in Ailsa Craig today. Well worth the trip!

Week 2

2011-05-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Great week last week. It sure flew by. This week is vending on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Huron-Perth Guild: our last meeting is Tuesday and we are vendor of the month. I chose May because I was secretary from November to March.

This week is the 'Gathering Threads' conference put on by CEGLondon. See http://www.ceglondon.com/ for details. If you aren't taking any of the classes it is still a great idea to come. The exhibit of work will be worth the time.

Parking at Perth Hall on Western Road is free, I think (about 95% sure). Entry is by donation to My Sister's Place, supporting women 16 years and over who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The London Guild has been working with the women by teaching needlework skills. Their unique quilt will be on display.

We will at the Vendor's Mall selling fibre art supplies as well as quilting wares.

New fabric: 'Full Circle' by Kathy Schmitz for Moda and kits 'Once Upon A Time'

May Day

2011-05-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

Despite the weather it is May. This is the first day of a very busy month.
Monday May 2:

After voting I will head to Sarnia to vend at the Guild meeting

Friday May 6 and Saturday May 7:

Thames Valley Guild Show

Quilting In the Village

Next week is even busier so will give you details later.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today is a gorgeous day! Here is a photo of the crocuses in the sign garden. See Nellie rolling in the grass enjoying spring?

We are going to my sister's for dinner tonight. I usually take a contribution for dinner but she said no this year. So I made her a couple of Brenda's 'Totally Twisted Cushion' pillows out of Northcott's 'Dragonfly Daze' fabric. She has a thing about dragonflies.

Quilters Shop Tour

2011-04-14T15:33:00.000-07:00

The tour started early this morning, continues 9 am to 7 pm tomorrow and ends on Saturday, 9am to 5 pm. It is so much fun to see all our quilting friends in so short a time! It has been great weather today too.

There are 9 shops on the tour from Goderich to London to Sarnia. All stores feature 20% off regular priced fabric, give away a pattern for a tablerunner featuring a star and provide a snack. the photo of our runner shows the orangy pieced and quilt-as-you-go gold-blue versions.

Recent additons: 25 of 31 new King Tuts, Kimono silk, Northcott Stonehenge Christmas, little Grinch flannel kit.

Off and running.....

Deb Tucker Tools

2011-02-28T13:11:00.001-08:00

I have been working on my 'Patriots In Petticoats' BOM. Some bias squares finish 1 and 1/4" so I am getting used to sewing small. I have found the 'Tucker Trimmer II' useful as it squares up bias squares based on quarter inches. The 'Tucker Trimmer' is used for even number measurements and 1/2" increments. I like the rulers because the trimming lines are easier to see and I make fewer miscuts. The orange-purple star uses the 1 1/4" bias square trimmer and so the block finishes 2 1/4".

Then, I decided to try the 'Wing Clipper'. I haven't used it much so for fun I tried making the sawtooth star using the smallest cut, 1' by 1 1/2". The block finishes 2"! I sewed the flying geese larger and used the ruler to trim them to size.

These experiments are tests for my HP Guild President's Challenge so I won't show more until it is done and handed in.

The Grinch is Here!

2011-02-23T19:41:00.000-08:00

The Robert Kaufman line of fabric based on Dr Seuss' Grinch stealing Christmas arrived today. We have the full line of cotton and a few of the flannel line. I hope to make a small flannel quilt as a store sample and kit it up for the Shop Tour in April.

If you read this and want a personal preview, let me know when you are here and I can give you a peek.... or maybe even part with some early...

February Clearance

2011-02-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

Here is a reminder that we are trying to downsize old stock this month.

All sale fabric on bolts is $5 per metre.
Sale fat quarters are lowered from $2 to $1.
Batting pieces are half the marked price.
Remnants are half the lowest price.

I keep adding bolts to the sale shelf and fat quarters to the sale box. All help in clearing out the old is greatly appreciated.

Quilters' Shop Tour 2011

2011-02-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

The passports are ready for the shop tour. Book April 14 to 16 for a wonderful time with quilting friends!.

I am trying to put the logo on here but am having trouble so will try again next week. I am teaching a Bargello Bag class tomorrow and need to prepare.....

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T05:38:00.001-08:00

Here's to a great New Year of quilting! New ideas, new classes, new finished projects!
Wishing everyone time to sew!

Annual Inventory Reduction 30% Off Sale

2010-12-26T08:04:00.000-08:00

Our sale starts tomorrow at 10 am and runs until closing on Friday December 31.
If you want to come today we are here.
If you want to come about 9 am tomorrow we will be ready early.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

2010-12-24T05:18:00.000-08:00

The last idea for a present for your favourite quilter is always a gift certificate, especially since our Annual 30% Off Inventory Reduction Sale starts on Monday.

Wishing you a wonderful time with family and friends! Happy Holidays!

Newest Arrivals

2010-12-23T05:28:00.000-08:00

Just yesterday a couple of brand new items arrived!

'The Cutting Corners Ruler' is so new I haven't tried it yet but it looks very very interesting. Here is what the promotion info says:

How does it work? It’s simple! The Cutting Corners Ruler™ gives you the simple and accurate measurements to eliminate a corner from a block, a square, a rectangle or triangle, while leaving the seam allowance on the remaining piece. Just add another fabric (pieced or not) and turn plain blocks into complex beauties.

Now doesn't that sound like a way to spice up a quilt!

The GO Baby arrived yesterday. Now we have 3 so if you want one, let us know so we can put your name on it until you can get here.

If someone still needs something for your stocking, we have charm packs of 5" squares that would fil very nicely....

Pillowcases for Everyone

2010-12-22T04:49:00.000-08:00

Pillowcases are great for using up your stash and wrapping all kinds of presents. Anne has been having a great time choosing fabrics for kits so there are plenty of choices. I can email the pattern to you as a PDF file, if you send a request to themarshstore@execulink.com

I made 3 on Sunday to use for wrapping toys. You can see my 'Spot' case, filled for Christmas Day, in the background.

One magazine is running a campaign to encourage making and donating one million pillowcases. For ideas and free patterns, try googling 'hotdog', 'roll up', 'sausage' or 'burrito' pillowcase pattern and learn to make them even faster than my way. It's not too late!

Quilters Pocket Map: Ontario

2010-12-21T05:17:00.000-08:00

This Ontario map shows where the sponsoring quilt shops are within the province. The map includes a free pattern from Eleanor Burns. Also included are the address and phone numbers for the shops so you can contact them. The suggested price is $10 but we are selling them for $5.

On these wintry days when you need a break from stitching, why not plan a family road trip or a shop hop for friends. That should provide sweet dreams during nap time.

deColourant for the Fibre Artist

2010-12-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

Something new for those who want to remove colour, as in play with fabric. I found this explanation and couldn't say it better.

This citrus paste/creme is available in an 8 oz. jar to stamp, stencil or print with. There is a 4 oz. spray bottle available too. deColourant is safe to work with and does not damage your fabrics. It requires heat to work , either ironing, a heat gun, or even the sun! This product is a pretty safe chemical, but as always you are encouraged practise proper use and safe working conditions. They tested this product on hand-dyed cotton, silk and wool yardage and found it to discharge well, in addition to showing no damage to the fabric.

As always, you should play with it first to get to understand the qualities, quirks and possible uses in your work.

Quilters Are Special

2010-12-19T05:07:00.000-08:00

About this time when working on the blog I seem to get a little philosophical. So here is what I am thinking.
After attending a quilting conference far away alone I came to realize that whenever you meet a quilter you have found a friend. Carry a bag you have made or wear a quilted item and someone will ask, "Did you make that?" Most of the time she will be a quilter and you have found someone to share with.
Quilters are unique. The reports say quilting is a billion dollar industry. Quilters purchase fabric with the main intent of giving it away. We plan a quilt thinking about someone else. We spend hours of our time sewing and stitching thinking about the receipient. We support other families by investing in the time of a machine quilter. Sure, many quilters have a stash but it is there in case we need a quick shower gift, baby quilt, hostess gift or quilt for someone in an emergency loss. We make and give, hoping the receipient will feel the warmth and love stitched into the quilt. So out of that billion dollars, what percentage do we save for ourselves? 10 percent? How impressive are quilters? Obviously more than anyone realizes....except, perhaps, a knitter.

'Making Waves' by Among Brenda's Quilts

2010-12-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Have leftover 2 1/2" strips from jelly rolls? Need a fast hostess gift? Then, 'Making Waves' is for you. Easy to piece, quick to quilt and machine sewn binding make this pattern just what you need.

I timed myself making 4 placemats and a runner. It took:

8 minutes to die cut 36 strips

50 minutes to chain piece all pieces

15 mintes to quilt and bind 1 placemat

I'll let you know how long the rest take....

Die Cutting Service

2010-12-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

We have an Accuquilt Studio die cutter and will cut for you. It is based on $25 per hour. If you come and prepare your fabric for the die you can downsize your stash for under $10. For example:

over 400 charm squares- 8 of each fabric

over 400 strips at 1 1/2"- 8 of each fabric

over 220 strips at 2 1/2"- 5 of each

over 200 pyramids for a Thousand Pyramid quilt

lots of side triangles for the pyramids

If you check out the AccuQuilt website, we have the Studio dies to do the 12" finished squares and more. If you are into penny rugs, we can cut pennies from felt for you. Let us cut for you!

Triangle Paper

2010-12-15T09:19:00.000-08:00

Now you should be ready for going on a retreat, assuming your loved ones are reading the block, signed you up and have your personal station equipped. Let's talk about ways to speed up piecing so you can maximize your sewing time.

'Triangle Paper' by Quiltime is newsprint ready to sew into bias squares. For $5.39 you can make 700 squares to finish 1" ( different to the photo) or for $6.69 you can make 720 squares to finish 1 1/2". There is a variety pack with 3 sheets to make 10 different sizes from 1" to 5". After sewing on dotted lines and cutting on solid lines, the newsprint tears away easily so all you have to do is press open. Check out Quiltime website for more information and free patterns, http://www.quiltime.com/ .

Mini Iron by Clover

2010-12-13T17:35:00.000-08:00

Now all you need for your retreat workstation is a mini-iron. Yes, you will need to get up and go to the communal cutting and ironing areas for a stretch and visit now and again but with the FoldAway and Mini-Iron you can work right by your machine. Imagine how much you can accomplish!

Clover makes 2 versions of the mini-iron. The first version is for small pressing jobs and is loved by appliquers. The Mini-Iron II has an adapter so you can change the tips for a multiple of fibre art uses.

We are getting some other versions of small irons suitable for retreats or classes. Seems everyone is thinking about our ironing needs as we travel to sew with friends. Yeah!

Omnigrid FoldAway Cutting and Pressing Station

2010-12-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

This is at the top of my Christmas list. It comes in three sizes and is perfect for taking to class or a retreat as it makes any area your workstation. The FoldAway is a portable cutting and pressing station since it has a cutting mat on one side and a non-stick ironing surface on the other. The largest has an 12" by 18" mat and ironing surface ($47.99) while mini-makers would love the 7" by 7". It folds for travel and storage. Use both sides or fold one under.

Material Girls Retreat

2010-12-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

Friday March 25 to Sunday March 27
Festival Inn
Stratford Ontario

Imagine the chance to sew for 3 days, meals made, friends and laughter. Work on projects of your choosing, knowing that if you need help someone is right there.
I've been trying to think of how to describe what you get from a retreat. It is too much to list in this short blog so I will save everything and do it in January. It makes me excited just thinking about the next retreat.... Sewing goes so much faster with friends.

Block of the Month: Patriots in Petticoats

2010-12-12T05:33:00.000-08:00

Jacob and Louisa Marsh were Quakers who built the store in 1869. One of their daughters married a doctor from Pennsylvania and moved there. The fabric for the Block of the Month program from Windham Fabrics, called 'Patriots In Petticoats', is from the Hanna Wallis collection. Hanna Wallis was a Pennsylvania Quaker who married a doctor so it seemed appropriate for us to take part in this program. The fabrics are late 1700 reproductions.

I am working on the store sample to make sure the patterns and fabric requirements work. As soon as the first shipment arrives (any day now) we will be able to establish the price which should be in the $30-35 for the patterns, top fabric and binding.

The quilt is 98" by 98". The first 8 months you make two 10" blocks. Next month is the centre medallion, then the log cabins followed by the ribbon border and, finally, the outside border. There are monthly meetings to discuss that month's blocks, useful techniques and questions. Time for sewing with some directions can be booked.

Block of the Month programs are a great way to have fun making a quilt.

True Grips

2010-12-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

Tim and I saw this at Quilt Market last May. The package contains 15 grips and retails at $5.99. They are made by 'The Grace Company'.

These non-slip adhesive rings cling to the back of rulers to help you cut more accurately. We tried 3 rings on the back of a 3 1/2" by 24" ruler. It did help reduce slipping on the fabric but really helped with the ruler on the cutting mat. The more I used the ruler the more I noticed the difference. Being frugal, 3 were enough but I could have used more and noticed a bigger difference. The rings are pressure sensitive and can be removed. The ruler and rings may need cleaning if the rings are changes around frequently.

EQ Printables

2010-12-07T07:59:00.000-08:00

Why would you include Printables in your Christmas list? They will involve your family in your quilt making and make quilt historians happy.

Use the fabric sheets in the computer printer. Ask a computer savvy family member to type or use a publishing program to create quilt labels. Then all you have to do is print them on the fabric, sew on a 1/2" fabric frame and stitch it to the back of your quilt. As a special treat to the family computer expert, have a photo added to the label.

'EQ Foundations' are newsprint foundation paper that you can use to make multiple copies for paper piecing. How easy is that? Or, another opportunity to involve the family computer expert and show all that you are ready to embrace technology!

Quilters Love Books

2010-12-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

Books inspire us, teach us and entertain us when we relax with one at break time. As an elementary teacher-librarian for many years, I love children's books too. Now you may understand why our children's fabric selection focuses on kid's books: Spot, Maisie, Eric Carle characters, Dr Seuss and more to come.

Off to read......

Wool Batting by Legacy

2010-12-07T07:19:00.001-08:00

It has been snowing for days and I can hardly see off the balcony while quilting in my chair. The wind blows through the cracks of this old building so the perfect time to plan a warm throw with Legacy wool batting.

It is so soft and a pleasure to hand quilt. Legacy says 'super washed wool blended with binder fibers to thermal bond'. The binder fibers makes it shrink less, 0-2%. Quilt stitch spacing is 4" or less. At $20/m it is the priciest batting but worth every bit.

Come and try a few hand stitches on our sample.

Triangle Square Up Ruler

2010-12-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

I am including this useful ruler again this year. It is by 'Quilt In a Day', Eleanor Burns. After many years of piecing, I know I do much better by sewing bias squares too large and trimming them to size. Cutting the triangles and sewing accurately seldom works for me. This ruler saves so much time because you trim the square to size after sewing and before pressing it open. You cut all four sides by trimming two. It is especially helpful when sewing small squares, like the 1" finished ones I've been doing.

'Wrap-ability' by Brenda

2010-12-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Just in time for major snow and party season! Brenda of 'Among Brenda's Quilts' has thought about our wardrobe and how to highlight it with a little sewing...maybe even from our stash.

Make the short version in black with gold for festive wear. As I watch the snow fall I am more and more anxious to get a hood made for walking with Nellie. Hmmm, off to sew.....

Imperial Fusions: Kyoto

2010-12-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

This is what they say on the Robert Kaufman website:

This best-selling collection series returns in an all new offering of Asian-inspired floral blenders with a Far East twist. Expert coloring includes rich crimsons, brilliant purples, and dynamic blues. Luminous metallic gold accents add an extra layer of sophistication and dimension.

Because they are part of the Fusions line these fabrics co-ordinate with other RK prints and make stunning quilts or quilted pieces. Need a special bag for holiday parties? They have the sparkle to match your most festive outfits.

My Favourite Seam Ripper

2010-12-04T01:14:00.000-08:00

Not that I need one...too often... but my favourite seam ripper is the Fons & Porter Ergonomic Seam Ripper. The large handle makes it comfortable to hold with even the tightest stitches. The rounded bottom works like a pencil eraser to pull out the thread bits left behind. It's the sharpest ripper I've had the pleasure of using.

Baby GO!

2010-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

Have you been dreaming of the possibilities using a die cutting machine? AccuQuilt has been thinking about you. The newest addition is arriving soon! We have ordered several so if you want one under your Christmas tree call or email and reserve yours as soon as possible.

The GO Baby takes 6" wide dies so many of the applique and shapes dies already fit it. AccuQuilt is resizing strip cutters too. Check out the Accuquilt website for tons of ideas and more information.

Binding Tool

2010-12-02T05:30:00.000-08:00

Once in a long time we come across a tool that is worth the money. Yesterday I tried the Fons & Porter binding tool. I absolutely love it! No math, no resewing, no extra bulk to fit in and not too short.

I followed the instructions and photos. I was done in half the time and needed only tea (not something stronger) afterwards. I found the instructions on their website but you could call to arrange a demo sometime.

Batting Seam Tape

2010-11-30T11:37:00.000-08:00

Here is the first of 24 ideas for Christmas gifts for your favourite quilter.

Batting tape is a fusible tape to use with batting scraps. Butt same type batting pieces together and fuse with this tape. At $6.59 per 10 yard roll, it would be worth using for larger pieces of batt to make up a queen size and be more even than one pieced with a zigzag stitch.

Spot has arrived!

2010-11-23T11:49:00.000-08:00

We have been waiting for this line of fabric since seeing it at Quilt Market in Minneapolis last May. Children have been enjoying Eric Hill's lift-the-flap adventures with Spot and his family for 25 years. There is a free pattern using the Spot line at http://www.andoverfabrics.com/

The panels make perfect 20 inch pillows for cuddle time. I'm off to make mine now....

'Hot Cakes' Oven Mitts

2010-11-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

At the quilting retreat, I decided the first project would be something fast so I would accomplish one thing. So I made these oven mitts from the pattern by 'Susie C Shore Designs'.

We will have a class on Monday December 6 at 9am. The $20 for the class includes the pattern. I can make a kit for anyone who wants one. Use insulated batting for protection.

They are so much fun to make! I want to make one for all my family this Christmas. I can't wait to decide which 'icing' fits each family.

Off to bake cupcakes...

Time Flies

2010-10-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

Once again time has flown so quickly it's been almost 3 months since I posted. Yikes! With so many new fabrics, patterns and other items I will post regularly We have been working to rearrange, reduce older inventory and add new. There's too much to put on the 'What's New' webpage.

The 38 bolts of brushed flannel plaid, which Tim ordered, arrived this week.

The 50 bolts of new Imperial Fusions from Robert Kaufman, which I ordered, arrived this week.

Maybe we should have some blog specials for those who like to follow....hmmm...

Off and running but I'll be back soon!

Very Series Quilt Kit

2010-08-05T13:50:00.001-07:00

It arrived today! We are busily making kits for the Eric Carle quilt called 'The Very Series'. You can see it at http://www.andoverfabrics.com/ in their free pattern section. The picture there is much clearer.

Let us know if you want one saved for you.

August News

2010-08-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

We are working at rearranging the fabric to make room for great new fabric. Lots of bolts and fat quarters are being added to the sale rack, including Asian prints for the first time.

Check out Anna Griffen's Christmas line, Georgette Christmas, at http://www.baumtextile.com/. We will be kitting the free patterns. Let us know if you want one. Email if you want to know more about price and colourways, themarshstore@execulink.com

If you are in more of an autumn mood, check out Red Rooster for 'Harvest Town'. We have the whole line in 5 m cuts so don't delay if you see something you like at http://www.redroosterfabrics.com/.

Anniversary Sale Starts July 19

2010-07-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

Our sixth anniversary sale starts tomorrow, Monday July 19, and runs until we close on Saturday July 24. We will open by 9 am on Monday and Tuesday. The rest of the week we will open at the regular time of 10am.

Everything but the sewing machines are on sale at 30% off. There are no rainchecks so if there is something you need come early in the week. Most of the batting is gone the first day.

Call 519-666-3330 if you have any questions.

Bright Fun Fabrics

2010-07-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

How about something light and fun for a baby quilt or the kitchen table. I love the bright greens! We were playing with the bird bolt and trying it with all kinds of colours and prints. The options for fun quilts are great. Come and play with us if you need something a little different.

Keep Cool...Sew Winter

2010-07-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Need a project to keep you cool? Here is some new winter fabric that would make a bright colourful quilt, throw or table accessories. It's great fabric for 'Among Brenda's Quilts' patterns like 'East Meet West' or 'Round Trip'.

And the sale starts next Monday....

New Crop Potatoes and Pattern

2010-07-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a new crop of potato fabric arrived along with the pattern for a potato/tortilla microwave bag. Also came bolts of garlic and bananas. I hope the pattern for a microwave corn steamer bag and the corn fabric arrive in time for this season's fresh corn on the cob.

Off for a snack......

Anniversary Sale July 19-24

2010-07-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

It's time for our annual anniversary sale. It will be 6 years on July 24 since we became owners of the store.

Sale starts on July 19 and runs all week until closing time on July 24. The store opens at 10am but we are ready early, about 9 am, the first day or two. For those who know, they can get a head start. We close at 5 pm or when the last person leaves. We have had people call so they can come after work.

The sale is 30% off the regular price of fabric, batting, thread, patterns, notions, books, paints and Accuquilt GO machines or dies. It applies to in-store inventory. Only Juki sewing machines are not included in the sale.

The batting goes quickly so much of it is gone the first day. We have ordered more Legacy batting but any time you buy the whole 8.23m bolt you gets the 30% off.

If you have any questions please email themarshstore@execulink.com or call 519-666-3330.

Legacy Batting by Pellon

2010-06-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today we received our first shipment of Legacy batting. Most comes in 8.2m bolts (9 yards) so you can afford a whole bolt if you have number of quilts to do. We do sell it by the metre so you can get the amount you need. Most bolts are 96" wide. We have king size (120" square) batts of 100% Natural cotton for $39.99 and 80-20 cotton-poly at $36.99. For in depth information about the variety of batts available and the properties of each, go to http://www.quiltlegacy.com/ . I am working on stitching and washing small samples of each batt so you can feel the results before you buy. I am looking forward to trying some handquilting with the wool and flax/linen.

Right now, we have bolts of soy-cotton, bamboo-cotton, 100% cotton in both bleached and natural, 80-20 with and without scrim and polyester. For longarm quilters with a business number, we can supply batting at special rates. Email us for information.

CEG Summer Workshop

2010-06-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

The Canadian Embroiderers Guild- London holds a week long workshop each June. Participants spend a week working with a textile artist developing techniques. As a guild member I get to volunteer to hostess one day of the week. Yesterday I got to enjoy the company of the teachers and students. This year's teachers are Dorothy Caldwell and Jane Davila. Meet Dorothy through http://www.ccca.ca/ and Jane through http://www.janedavila.com/ . I can't wait to visit again at the open house later this week to enjoy the students' progress.

After class yesterday some people visited the store so I took a picture of a few on the porch, with Nellie, of course.

It Seemed Like a Good Idea

2010-06-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

Months ago it seemed like a good idea to order the 72 colours of batiks in 'The Princess Palette'. Now that they have arrived and need a shelf to sit on, it is an interesting challenge. We made 3 packages of charm squares: red-purple, yellow-orange, blue-green. Each box has 2 squares of each of 24 colours. Then we made fat quarters and now we are arranging colour groups of bolts.

When we were in Minneapolis at the trade show, Quilt Market, we ordered the new Liquitex 'Surface Design Center' from C&T Publishing. What fun! If you have 'Jane Davila's Surface Design Essentials' book, we have the supplies you need to try things.

It's Raining, It's Pouring

2010-05-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

It's rainy again today so it seems like a good day to get caught up.

The fall and winter fabrics are starting to arrive. I think you may not be ready for Christmas so we can leave those in the back for awhile. Unless, of course, you check out Northcott website ( http://www.northcott.net/ ) for the 'Holly Holiday' line and want right away.

Robert Kaufman 'Nutmeg' line co-ordinates with all the Fusions and Kona solids. So we ordered 4 great prints to create autumny runners, hangings and bags. I tried to take a photo but if you want to see proper colour go to their website. It's ready now for you to sew.

Yikes, Time Flies!

2010-05-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is May already! So much has been going on that it has sped by. Now I hope to have time to get back to blogging. Some new items...

Aunt Becky's Quilting Tool: a special request from a hand quilter that looks interesting but it just arrived yesterday and I haven't had time to figure it out. Drop by and we can learn together. Just bring some quilting to do by hand.

Stonehenge: Mother Earth, Maui, Colorado, metallics... need I say more? Check out http://www.northcott.net/

More Angelina Film

Time for Sunprinting: bring out your t-shirts on a sunny day and take a class. Tons of fun for all ages.

Now that I have this post done I will do more. Happy May!

Sweet Peep

2010-02-22T12:53:00.000-08:00

Brenda of 'Among Brenda's Quilts' has a new pattern! 'Sweet Peep' features Mama Owl with her wings protecting Baby Owl. At 42" by 48" it is suitable for decorating the nursery or cuddling around baby. Brenda made hers in Northcott's 'What a Hoot' fabric line. We can make you a kit of pretty cottons or flannels to suit your baby. The pattern is $9.99 and we would be happy to mail it to you.

February Specials

2010-02-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

February is a good month to clear out some things and make room for the fresh new fabric. This month all remnants are 50% off the lowest price, bundles are 5 for $10 and finish any bolt for 30% off.

Promotional coupons for regular priced fabric, when purchasing Juki sewing machines or the GO! fabric cutting machine, are available until March 31.

Material Girls Quilting Retreat

2010-01-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

Ready for a break from routine and a whole lot of fun? Join us at the 'Material Girls Retreat'!.

March 12, 13 and 14
Festival Inn, Stratford ON
$325 includes 2 nights, double occupancy, 2 breakfasts, 2 suppers

Bring your WIPs, works in progress, and sew from 3 pm Friday to 3 pm Sunday. Also included is a kit for a special project to remember your fun time. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking. Space is limited so book as soon as you can.

'Sew Creative' in Mt Brydges, 'The Quilt Shoppe' in Sarnia and 'The Marsh Store' are working together to plan this adventure.

I went in October and had such a great time I wanted to be involved again. I was amazed at the amount of sewing I accomplished while talking and laughing. Call or email if you are interested.

As Seen In a Magazine

2010-01-16T07:49:00.000-08:00

Lightbulb moment! Wouldn't it be helpful to let people know the fabrics we have from current magazines? So here are the ones I am aware of:

American Patchwork and Quilting- Feb 2010:

'sweet tea'- teacup print and 3 pinks

McCall's Quick Quilts:

'cottage garden'- same 3 pinks as above;white, pink and dark pink floral

'roadside stand'- not this line but lots of other fruits and vegetables

Quilters' Newsletter Feb/Mar:

p. 45, #6 Stafford County by Jo Morton

Fons & Porter Jan/Feb 2010:

'Kingyo" panel, border print and black print (D)

"Dancing Horses" by Laurel Burch in earth tones- ad p. 41

on order 'Simple Nature' as shown in ad on page 21

If I find anything else I will post it.

Juki Sewing Machines and GO Cutters Special Promo

2010-01-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

We are offering free fabric coupons on purchases of our Juki sewing machines and GO! fabric cutters until March 31.

Receive a $75 coupon for regular priced fabric when you purchase the GO! fabric cutter.

Receive a coupon for regular priced fabric when you purchase a Juki sewing machine.

We carry:

HZL-25Z $295 compact-size easy to use for beginners $50 coupon

HZL-35Z $395 more stitches and features for beginners $75 coupon

HZL- 61E $675 an electronic machine with great features $125 coupon

HZL-F400 $1125 Exceed Quilt & Pro $200 coupon

TL98-Q $1150 Industrial machine for home quilting frames $200 coupon

Snowy Days in Coldstream

2010-01-03T07:14:00.000-08:00

Yikes, there's a lot of snow. Tim is blowing snow for the third time in 2 days. And, it's not over yet! The wind is picking up so the loose snow will blow. The balconey is so high we can hardly see over it. We're deciding when the best time will be to climb out the window and start throwing snow off. The weight of the snow is a concern, especially if it warms up and starts to melt.

Nellie loves to play in the snow. She drops her ball on the snow and digs under it until it falls. She keeps going until all you see is a wagging tail tip over the snowbank. When she comes in she spends half an hour picking off snowballs under her belly.

I can't remember this much snow all at once in the 5 years we have been here. Once we dry off it will be time to go play again. Maybe a walk through the trail...

Happy 2010!

2010-01-01T09:58:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all you hope for in the new year!

I am taking a break from inventory. Yes, we are counting every fold on every bolt, every spool, pattern, pin and needle. Thanks to Ela and Anne for arranging bolts for speedier counting.

The best thing about inventory is one has time to reevaluate what we have and what we have had for far too long. If you missed the inventory reduction sale in December, there are lots of bolts, kits, patterns and books being reduced. Out with the old, in with the new!

Watch the blog for new fabrics arriving weekly, new classes being posted and other fun new items.

Now back to work...

Happy New Year!

Last Minute

2009-12-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

This is the last Christmas post for 2009. If there is still someone looking for an idea for you then a gift certificate will be the best idea. Our sale starts on Sunday December 27 so the gift certificate would be worth 30% more!

Our annual sale runs Sunday December 27 to Thursday December 31. On sale at 30% off are all regular priced fabrics, notions, thread, books, patterns and batting.
Excluded are the Juki sewing machines, AccuQuilt GO and accessories and the Grace Frame.

We are open 10 am to 5 pm each day. I try to be down early and will open as soon as I start the coffee. I plan to be ready by 9am on Sunday. I expect to be ready by 9:30 the rest of the days.

Wishing you a wonderful day, tomorrow and always!

Quilt Kits

2009-12-23T07:15:00.000-08:00

There are lots of quilters who like using kits. The pattern and fabrics appeal to them so they can get started making the quilt right away.

I always find it a challenge to make kits. Choosing a pattern is the easiest part. Trying to choose fabrics in colours to suit customers' taste is the hard part. Sometimes we go with the same fabric as the pattern, especially when the pattern is available online from the fabric company. Or, when Brenda has designed a pattern with a specific line of fabric which we ordered, like Northcott's 'Winter Sports' flannel line. Sometimes I like the pattern and try to choose fabric you would like.

We think it is important to take time to plan a quilt with you when you come into the store. Doing this could be thought of as helping you choose your own quilt kit. That way we are both happy with the choices.

Always remember we are here to help. Helping you choose fabric is the most fun I can have! It's my kind of playtime!

PS: Have you ever checked out the free patterns from your favourite fabric company?

What More Could You Ask For?

2009-12-22T05:14:00.000-08:00

There are only 3 days left to shop. That means 21 ideas have been posted so far. What else is left to talk about?

How about needles? I never seem to have enough needles or know where the ones I need are at that moment. So, if a quilter needs stocking stuffers, I would suggest an assortment of needles. Machine needles: universal needles in size 75 and 90, topstitch needles in 90 and 100 sizes (see Dec 12), quilting needles in size 90, embroidery needles, etc....

Hand sewing needles: quilting needles known as betweens in a variety of sizes, sharps as small as you can use, embroidery or milliners needles for binding, straw needles, etc......

I am getting the idea we should have a class about using needles. That way you could learn when and how to use the different ones. Using the correct tool at the right time always improves the quality of your work by making it easier.

BoNash For Art Quilts

2009-12-21T06:29:00.001-08:00

I first learned about BoNash products in fibre art workshops. There are several items I just love.

The 'Bonding Agent 007' is glue in powdered form. Think fusible webbing as sugar. I use it with angelina and foil. In the past I have used it when I have nicked a fabric after quilting in a wallhanging. The hanging wouldn't get washed alot even though the glue does hold through washing and dry cleaning. Sprinkle a little in the slit, cover with parchment paper and iron until fused. It's great for clothing hem repair in a pinch. The hem never comes down but, if it does become loose, just warm it up with the iron to reglue it. They suggest their non-stick craft sheet but I use parchment.

Jane loves the BoNash Iron Shoe. The promotional literature says:

The Ironslide Iron Shoe fits easily over the base of your iron. Made of PTFE A space-age material that is non-stick. Nothing sticks, starch and fusibles wipe off. Nothing burns or scorches. Iron from cotton to silk or denim to lace without waiting for iron to cool. Iron over sequins, puff paint, glitter, motifs without damage. Eliminate the need for a press cloth.

Loving glitter and sparkle as I do, I recently played with the Pressure Sensitive Fabric Adhesive and the No-Mess Glitter Tower. The woman demonstrating at Quilt Market said the glitter is much finer than others so it sparkles more. Yes, I agree. Although some things on the counter still have bits of glitter on them so I am not sure about the no-mess label. I would love to show you my samples. The glitter at $30.99 is pricey but can be used in other craft areas such as cardmaking and scrapbooking. The PS Fabric Adhesive can be used with foils. The packaging has both a Bo-Nash logo and a Tonertex Foil logo so I am beginning to wonder if there is more of a connection with what we have known as Jones Tones. Hmmmmm?

Help for Speeding Up Your Binding Stitches

2009-12-20T08:04:00.000-08:00

Time running out and so much binding to do? Here are 3 ways that may help:

1. Clover Needle Threading Cassette: Automatically threads and stores up to five needles. For sharps No.2 though No.10 and all other needles that can be fitted into the Cassette. Put your needles on in a bright light. You save time by quickly threading the needles.

2. Finger Flashlight: Strap it to your finger so the light shines directly on the section you are stitching. You could even keep binding while the driver takes you to the receiver of the gift.

3. Foxglove Cottage Needles: I find a longer needle for binding makes it easier to sew as there is more to grasp and pull. I have used the Embroidery needles lately as they are long but still thin. When my fingers get tired the length makes it easier to grab.

Busy Times

2009-12-19T08:54:00.000-08:00

What a busy day! But, my hair looks great thanks to Roland, the cranberry sauce and gifts are ready for the Tim family dinner tonight, and other family things are getting sorted.

Rather than an idea today, let's talk about the Christmas spirit. When Joan and I had the New Year Party in September we collecte donations for the Women's Rural Resource Centre in Strathroy. We delivered over $550 to the shelter and the woman who accepted the gift said it would be used for their Food Bank. Last Monday night the Sew Happy Quilt Group in Mt Brydges collected food for them as their need was still so great. Last night my book club friends collected donations of food for them because they heard the need was so great.

So today I hope you will think of those, especially women and children in shelters, who have such a basic need as food for Christmas. We keep our family and friends warm with our quilts and quilted items. Shall we keep others warm with gifts of food?

Fons & Porter Glue Pen

2009-12-17T19:42:00.000-08:00

Applique is something many people find challenging. Learning how to make smooth edges and small stitches takes time but everyone can learn tricks to improve their skills more quickly. Investing in quality tools to help will you progress also.

If you want to do needle-turn hand applique you would benefit by taking a class where the instructor knows the ins and outs. It is a technique I like for small pieces with curvy details but don't have much opportunity to practise.

If you use freezer paper hand applique, then the Glue Pen might be a time saver and the skill booster you need. With this glue pen you can apply a fine line of glue to the seam allowance on the edge of the freezer paper. The seam allowance sticks to the paper until the glue is washed out. The glue looks blue when you apply it but dries clear. Whenever I used a glue stick I ended up with sticky fingers and the applique pieces glued to lots of body parts and sewing tools. With the glue pen, I can apply a thin line and keep everything non-sticky! The refills make it reusable and saves the cost of a pen every time.

Sometimes a little tool makes all the difference.