Look Ma, I'm an Artist

I took a fabric painting class with Linda Visnaw last week.   We used Tsukineko inks to create these flowers on fabric.  We then did machine quilting to add thread details to the flowers.  I only finished one because I had to give my piece of batting to someone else in the class (I have lots of batting pieces here at home!). 

I haven't had time to do anymore painting, but I've got lots of ideas.  Stay tuned...

Another finished project

The last few days have been spent finishing this quilt.  The embroidery designs are originals that my friend and I created using our embroidery software.  We then taught classes on how to create each block.  This represents a whole year of teaching!  Today the quilt is going to competition for the Husqvarna Viking convention.

A Life Changing Experience

Last year Alex Andersen told my friend that she needed to attend the Ricky Tim's Super Seminar. She said it would change her life. How can you resist something that will change your life? We joked about it and signed up. Four of us traveled to Glens Falls, NY and all I can say is "wow". We received a spiral bound book with all of the instructions for every technique that was demonstrated. There were three days of instruction and so much shared that our heads were spinning. We didn't know what we wanted to try first when we got home! Check out Ricky Tim's website and get to a Super Seminar if you can. He does four of them a year in different parts of the country.

Ricky Tims

Libby Lehman

Alex Andersen

What a talented group of quilters...and now my life is changed!

Look what I've been doing...

I entered the American Sewing Guild's 2008 Creativity Contest.  I chose to enter the 5 piece wardrobe category. (yes I'm crazy).  What fun I had!  This contest is sponsored by the Simplicity pattern company.  I could choose from one of the selected patterns and adapt, adjust and modify to my heart's content.  I chose Simplicity pattern 3634 and off I went to my stash.  I was originally a garment sewer, but I have been primarily quilting for the last 15 years or so.  That didn't stop me from still buying garment fabric and my stash is quite a large one.  The only fabric I purchased for the challenge was the skirt fabrics.  Everything else was already in my possession.  I guess you would call it a "stash busting".   Here are my 5 pieces:  a reversible skirt, sleeveless top, long sleeved top, sweater knit jacket and capri pants (with embroidered trim).  

I had to send a folder with photos and fabric swatches. If my entry is chosen as a finalist I will have to send the actual garments for judging. Stay tuned...