Quilting Cafe's Brew, something is always brewing

PINK SLIPPED TEACHERS

2010-03-29T10:03:00.005-05:00

For whatever reason, too many teachers are receiving pink slips. In other words, being terminated. We need to personally support these hard working souls with humor, caring, or just a quick thank you. Sometimes a teacher just likes to laugh. Here are some suggestions:

"You know how to tell if the teacher is hung over? Movie Day." Jay Mohr
"School is like a lollipop. It sucks until it is gone."

"I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, but for you my heart has no bottom."

Gym Teacher or Coach

"As long as teachers give tests, there will always be prayer in school"

School's out for Summer!

Biology, Botany, Science, Ecology

"A gifted teacher is as rare as a gifted doctor, and makes far less money."

To buy these and other quilted items, please visit my shop: quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

ANGLERS' DELIGHT, appliqued fish quilted wallhanging

2009-10-16T16:54:00.007-05:00

Just finished another quilted wallhanging in my Wisconsin pan fish series:

Angler's Delight

Each fish is an original design.

Using my own design, I choose a fabric for each part of the fish.

The fish is then machine appliqued leaving raw edges for extra dimension.

Each fish block is paired with a plaid flannel.Black Kona Cotton is used for the sashing.
Each fish is then thread painted with variegated metallic thread.

Each background is tea dyed and stipple quilted which makes

the fish puff out, giving it added dimension.

The back of the quilt is a golden wheat flannel.

My favorite part is adding each fish's eye.

It's when they really get their personality.

This quilt is 39 inches square. It's hanging sleeve already has a wooden lat in it with a saw toothed hanger attached: ready for immediate hanging.

Wouldn't this make the best Christmas gift for that angler on your list or maybe someone with a cabin. It will be an immediate eye catcher and conversation topic.

It is sold on quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

JANE AUSTEN REVISITED

2009-08-21T16:21:00.005-05:00

Isn't it just fabulous that we still can relate to Jane Austen today? Take look at my newest cards in my shop: quiltingcafe.etsy.com. Her words are still so true.

I do not want people to be agreeable, as it saves me the trouble of liking them."

"A large income is the best recipe for happiness I ever heard of."

"One half of the world cannot understand the pleasures of the other."

Jane Austen knew how to say it. Don't you know someone who would enjoy these gems. Mail them or keep it for yourself and frame them.

Three 4" X "6 Quilted Postcards. Raw-edge quotation is also cotton. Actual cotton batting used. I first made the mini-quilt and then attached it onto timtex stiffening and the cardstock. This process makes the card puffy and soft like an actual quilt. These mini-quilts are quilted with shiny variegated thread. Postcard is finished with fabric binding or overcasted yellow and orange thread.

Can be sent through the mail for 28 cents and arrives in perfect shape. Card Stock back for easy writing. If you have any questions, please contact me either through my shop or quilt.cafe@yahoo.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

PRIMITIVE FOLK ART: Cabin Decor

2009-08-09T07:29:00.003-05:00

I love to spend time up in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. That wondrous place of clear blue water, heavenly pine trees, and glorious fresh air were the inspiration for these new items listed in my shop: quiltingcafe.etSy.com.

These mini quilts would compliment any decor where warmth is wanted: cabin, den, boy's room, or basement.

CABIN IN THE PINES

What a sweet little cabin nestled among the pines on a starlit night. This 18" square scrappy quilt is made from 20 different cotton flannels and evenweaves.

The trees, cabin, moon, and star are appliqued and finished with a button hole stitch. 15 buttons are hand sewn in the corners of the squares.

The branch is included.

SNOW
Who wouldn't love snow with this happy little snowman smiling back at them. This 19" X 11" scrappy quilt is made from 16 different cotton flannels and evenweaves.
The letters and snowman are appliqued and finished with a button hole stitch. French knots make up the eyes and mouth.
The Snowflakes are hand embroidered as are the snowman's arms

RUSTIC CRAZY QUILT
This richly patterned 20" X 13" wall hanging contains about 25 different cotton flannels and evenweaves. Although the quilt does not have batting, it is flannel-backed to give it stability. All the seams have been machine embroidered in different stitches with gold thread. Two large buttons set off the centers of the blocks.The wall hanging is finished in pillow case style with no binding. The branch it is hanging on is included.

BLUE ANGEL
This little darling will keep watch over home and hearth.

The angel is paper pieced in cotton evenweaves. The body is a blue batik with embroidered flowers along the bottom. The hair is jute with two french knot eyes. Two vintage buttons finish.

The 8" square mini quilt includes the birch branch hanger.

STAG IN THE NIGHT WOODS

Lots of stars at night, especially with a crescent moon, with deer rustling in the pine forest.

This 21" X 15" scrappy quilt is made from 21 different cotton flannels and evenweaves.

The trees, deer, moon, and stars are appliqued and finished with a button hole stitch.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

ANGEL OF HOPE, mini quilt

2009-08-08T11:22:00.003-05:00

I made this little quilt to give hope to those in need of it. The angel will watch over those in dire need from illness, death, divorce or anything that seems, at present, quite bleak.

Hope springs eternal in the human breast;

Man never Is, but always To be blest:

The soul, uneasy and confin'd from home,

Rests and expatiates in a life to come.

-Alexander Pope,An Essay on Man, Epistle I, 1733

Hope springs eternal when this darling is in the room. The background fabric is hand dyed muslin with tea to give it an aged look. She is machine-appliqued with a button hole stitch. In her arms is a hand-embroidered wreath of french knots.

As she floats among the stars, her golden metallic halo shines.

The word hope has been stitched by hand.

This 11" X 16" mini quilt would be perfect by a child's bedside or hanging above a crib. She would also make a great table topper at Christmas.

It is for sale at Quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

If you would like a hanging sleeve attached or a personalized label, please let me know.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

SALE - Quilted Fabric Postcards

2009-08-07T10:10:00.008-05:00

Quilted Fabric Postcards lets someone know you care.
When you figure the cost of a regular greeting card that gets thrown away, a "OOAK" (one of a kind) mini quilt will be treasured. There's not even an envelope! What a great way to go green by reducing waste.

It can be sent through the mail as is and arrives in perfect condition. I know, I have sent many out to friends and family. I have seen them as magnets on their refrigerators, hung on bulletin boards in dorm rooms, or framed on their desk.

Keep it personal with those that are important in your lives. Show them you are thinking of them with a handwritten note. That never goes out of style.

In honor of that, I have put 21 quilted fabric postcards on sale. Here is a sampling of them from my shop, quiltingcafe.etsy.com:

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

FISH with personalities...quilted art panels

2009-07-20T12:47:00.005-05:00

This is the way to catch fish. No worms, no hooks, no mosquitoes to mess you up. Not only are this great to look at, each fish has its own personality. One of these quilted panels would look great in your cabin, bathroom,or child's room.

Each panel is 11 inches square ready to be hung with a dowel inserted in the back. Check them out and others on my site: quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Personalized Quilted Tags

2009-06-27T13:29:00.005-05:00

Here is the perfect foil to finding your luggage on the busy turnstiles at the airport. Whether you choose to use your college initials in the school colors or your favorite sport's team name and colors, you will add real pizazz to your luggage.

One side of the tag has paper pieced initials of your choosing.

Everyone loves to show their pride by displaying their school colors.

The other side can have your name embroidered on it.

I made this one for my daughter's college roommate. And by the way, don't you love the suitcase...got it from my last "buying" trip to Harwin Avenue in Houston. But let's not let the college kids have all the fun, you can have your own initials, sorority/fraternity, baby...the possibilities are endless.

Can be ordered from my shop: Quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

PRIMA BALLERINA, Quilted Wallhanging

2009-04-26T13:34:00.008-05:00

My oldest daughter requested ballet lessons at the ripe old age of 3. I acquiesced and continued on for the next 11 years with classes, costumes, and recitals. This wall hanging emulates her style when she was little in the ballerina panels and the modern sashing represents her style today 20 years later.

I really enjoy beading and adding dimension to my quilts and wall hangings. Each panel has been echo quilted to signify movement. The three yoyos add a bit of whimsy. It has a hanging sleeve on the white and red toile back. Please check my etsy shop to purchase: quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Repurposed Prom Dress

2009-02-16T16:54:00.007-06:00

When my cousin was giving me her mother's stash, she asked if I could do something with the left over material from her prom dress (1972). At the same time, she gave me an old pillow case on which her grandmother had tatted some cotton lace. Could I also do something with the lace. I thought a small zippered case in which she could put other mementos might do the trick. I used both the yellow flowered gauze and underlining together and quilted it. The lining is made of a material called "Si Bonne" and i used it for the case's lining as well. I added the lace to the outside with a yo yo and button to add some interest.

Please note that I hand sewed the zipper in so that it would be invisible using a pinprick stitch. In fact, except for the 4 side and bottom seams, all the rest of the sewing was done by hand. Maybe one of her daughter might want to take it to their prom!

If you have any ideas about how to repurpose some of your memories, let me know.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing
quiltingcafe.etsy.com

All size quilts for Cabins!

2009-02-11T18:43:00.003-06:00

Added a new mini quilt today. Had left over scraps from other projects and this was really fun.

Here are other primitive folk art quilts that would look great in a cabin.

As always, these can be purchased at quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Baby Geniuses Grow Up on a Patchwork Charm Quilt

2009-02-04T19:12:00.003-06:00

Grammie & mimi's Baby Geniuses Grow Up is great fabric designed by Linda Carlson and Diana Henage for Benartex. I made two charm quilts from this collection. These pictures really cannot depict the vivid colors and dynamic patterns of the fabric.

The first quilt is 21" square with a heavy, brightly colored flannel back. Just right for a security blanket on which to change baby or play I Spy with the patterns. Actually the light blue background is white...am going to have to retake those pics.

The other quilt is a bit larger and predominantly turquoise and green with the same brightly colored flannel back. This quilt will never go out of style, because my teenagers and 20 somethings love these too.

Check these quilts out on my site quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

CHARM QUILTS: Defined

2009-02-03T11:44:00.010-06:00

I made 5 charm quilts over the weekend. The colors are so much fun to play with. It really pushes one to try different colors together It got me to thinking...what is a charm quilt?

A charm quilt according to the site, http://www.qnm.com/articles/feature15/index.html is as follows:
Charm, Beggar, Odd Feller, or Friendship--these are some of the names given to this unique category of quilts. Most quilts derive their name from the design of a block, or from the technique used in construction. But the Charm Quilt is defined by its one-patch construction, every piece being cut from a different fabric...Some were called Beggar's Quilts because the maker had to beg scraps from friends and relatives. Other names were Memory or Friendship because the collection of fabrics represented friends and family and the memories attached to them. And still another name was No-Two-Alike, chosen for obvious reasons...The focus of the latest fashion for Charm Quilts is fun--the fun of collecting fabric, the fun of making connections with other quilters, and thefun of creating a quilt that is completely
unique to its maker.

This quilt "Just Conversation," uses 24 different fabrics. Some are vintage fabrics which are over 20 years old; others are reproduction 30's fabrics.

I bought a great charm pack from Moda called Butterfly Fling. I separated them into cool and warm colors. The first is "Blue Butterfly Fling." I embroidered three pink butterflies on the adorable quilt. This would make a great doll quilt or security blanket.

The warm colors became "Pink Butterfly Fling." Since there were more square, this is a great crib or napping quilt. The two butterfly quilts are not true charm quilts, I added some extra fabric.

The next two quilts are still waiting to be quilted and will be featured in a later blog.
As always, these can be purchased from my shop, quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

QUILTED NASCAR

2009-01-26T15:45:00.007-06:00

My sister-in law out in San Diego loves NASCAR. When I saw this fabric, I knew I had to make her a quilt with it. Because the NASCAR fabric is so busy, I broke it up with turquoise sashing . After quilting in the ditch and crisscrossing the blocks, I named it "NASCAR Crossroads. " I mailed it today and can't wait to hear her reaction!
As you can see from the label, I put the title at the top. I then drew and colored a race car. It also has to and from whom, along with the date finished. Check on my earlier blog as to how to make this label: http://quiltingcafesbrew.blogspot.com/2008/10/how-to-personalize-quilt-label.html

Because I had extra NASCAR fabric that is licensed and cannot be sold in my etsy shop, I also made her the following cosmetic case. It is my first case and was so easy. It was fun, especially adding the colored beads as a zipper pull.

A quilter always has scraps, so I made a crazy quilt postcard. The bright colors really shine in this one. As always you can visit me in my shop at quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Camp Armour, Illinois Institute for Engineering Students

2009-01-25T07:27:00.011-06:00

During the first half of the 1940s, at the request of the U. S. military services, Illinois Institute of Technology became an education center for both civilian and military personnel. In order to fill the need for engineers during World War II, high school seniors expedited their last year by attending a 3 month session at Camp Armour. Founded in 1923 but no longer in existence, Camp Armour was located on Trout Lake, Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. It was just north of the present park headquarters, on land leased from the state. During the 1940s, the Penn family served as directors.

My Dad attended the Camp in Summer, 1942. After vacationing in the Northwoods for 13 years, my husband and I bought property in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. When I visited the Camp Armour site, the deer were peacefully nibbling grass in the dappled sunlight. I continued on down to Trout Lake and took photographs of the shoreline. When I sent them on to my Dad, he said it still looks the same. Here are his pictures from 1942 ( he is in the sailor cap) and my present photos for comparison. I think this will make a great art quilt.

Continue to the next blog.

More Camp Armour

2009-01-25T06:55:00.002-06:00

July, 1942

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Personalized photo postcards

2009-01-24T12:49:00.002-06:00

My cousin recently order 4 postcards with this picture of her and her sister on it. She gave me the quote and I added different fabric backgrounds for each card. This picture was taken in 1958 at the family farm in Joliet, Illinois. It is part of picture of the whole dining table. Although it was chilly day, we still had an outdoor picnic. The rest of the day was spent raking and burning leaves.

If you have an idea to personalize a postcard, let me know and we can work on something just as endearing. Quilt.cafe@yahoo.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

NEW QUILTED POSTCARDS WITH VINTAGE PHOTOS AND QUOTATIONS

2009-01-23T19:20:00.007-06:00

I have listed some new cards today in my etsy shop: quiltingcafe.etsy.com. These are not only fun for me to make but also very sentimental. My father transferred 40 years of family pictures onto the computer. Since he took only 35mm slides with his Zeiss Ikon , the transfer quality is always excellent.

When making my postcards, I usually choose the photographs first and then find a quotation to go with it. Then the real fun starts! Picking out the fabrics and materials which will enhance the photographs.

"A mother's treasure is her daughter." The first pic is taken outside St. Viator's Church on Addison on the northwest side of Chicago. I have many pictures of my mother in this hat. The hat is actually made out of velvet. I think she still has in the back of her closet.

"He who sings, frightens away his ills." This is a quote by Don Quixote in the play "Man of La Mancha. My parents loved to give large dinner parties. Afterwards, the party would continue to the living room. My father would play the piano and sing. He even bought a micro phone. You can see others loved to join in! They were great parties. I know this to be true because I could hear them laughing from my bedroom into the wee hours of the night.

"I love you not for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you." These are friends of my parents taken in 1953. The words are the first line of a poem that was read at my wedding. These words still ring true after over 27 years!

" It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can be stupid with them." The last picture was taken in August of 1969. I have no idea what is going on with the pineapple, but it must be funny. My family was visiting friends in up state New York outside of Poughkeepsie. My dad's friend suggested that we should take the back roads out because they were more scenic. Encountering an incredible traffic jam, my dad, rolled down the window, and asked some people walking along the side of the road what was going on. It was a music concert and It took us 3 hours to get down the road. Later, we found out it was Woodstock. I was 16 at the time, and told everyone "I was at Woodstock!"

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRIES..Three new quilts

2009-01-19T14:25:00.004-06:00

Several months ago, I started collecting these brown and pink fabrics.I scoured quilt shops, Internet sites, and my stash. When I saw this pattern I knew it work very well with these fabrics.

I have never made a quilt with curves before. The instructions were clear and precise and I made use I pinned and pinned and pinned. By matching centers and ends, then continuing inwards, the blocks turned out perfect each time. I made sure the gathered section was next to the feed dogs. The fabric moved quite well through the needle. I removed each pin as I sewed.

I actually found the border fabric after the blocks were finished. They were the exact brown I needed. The large flowered print certainly compliments the geometric circles. When I finished the quilt, I thought they looked like chocolate cover cherries, or cherry cordials. They are named Cherry Cordial I, II, III.

I had some smaller squares from another project so, I decide to make a matching baby/doll quilt adding fabrics from the first quilt.

The first quilt had so many left over convex and concave pieces, I decided to use them to make a smaller quilt that work great as a wall hanging.

The set of all three can be purchased on my site at quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

THINGS THAT GO QUILT

2009-01-08T17:17:00.005-06:00

I added a new quilt to my etsy shop, quiltingcafe.etsy.com. today. I fell in love with these pictures of "Things That Go" from Michael Miller fabric designs; reminds me of my childhood, as well as my own children. I know my son George, would particularly like the trains.

The colors all have a vintage tinge to them and evoke a warm feeling. Children will recognize each of the pictures and have fun identifying them. Think of the games you could play while lying in bed together. I Spy would be a great one. Or make up a story about each picture.

Here are the closeups of each quilted block.

The Fire Engine The WagonThe Delivery Truck
The Coupe Sedan

The Propellered AirPlane

The Passenger Train

The Freight TrainThe Cabin Cruiser The School Bus
The Tricycle

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

TEXAS WILDFLOWER QUILT

2009-01-07T20:18:00.004-06:00

Making a quilt for someone else is the most inspiring way to go for me as a quilter. While visiting my cousin in Texas, we took a trip to San Antonio. Along the way, my cousin remarked that she wished I could see the glorious wildflowers that grow along the roads in the Spring. She went on to describe all of them in great detail with wonder and enthusiasm.

I found a great applique pattern with all the Texas wildflowers. I then located on the internet, fabrics with these wildflowers in them. What a fun undertaking. I like to make my quilts in sort of a round robin fashion. ust figuring out what I will do next as it strikes me.

I gave it to her for her 60th birthday and it is called "Texas Wilds". She could name all the flowers in the center of the quilt and was genuinely thrilled. She also knew exactly where she would use it in her house...the very place I had planned for it.

I always like to get a picture of the receiver holding the quilt. Their faces tell it all, don't they.

QuiltingCafe.etsy.com , where something is always brewing

2008-12-14T13:40:00.010-06:00

My cousin, Diane, asked me to make her mom a large bib. This is what I came up with. It has vining brown pumpkins on cream cotton on one side. I chose these fabrics because my aunt was always in her vegetable garden, and liked planting her flowers.

The reverse is dark brown with green vines, sweet little yellow daisies and pink baby's breath. The bib is 24 inches long and 15" across. The diameter of the neck is approximately 20".

Since there is a nice layer of cotton batting between the two layers of cotton, I quilted the entire bib using the vining pumpkins as my guide. If you need a larger size, let me know. I can also widen the bottom part that goes on the lap as well as adding ties at the waist. If you want a pocket at the bottom to catch everything, that can be added also.
The bib closes with a single snap which makes it difficult to pull off.

These bibs will be on a made to order basis, with customers picking out the color and other specifications. Contact me at my shop, quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

HOW TO MAKE A QUILTED FABRIC POSTCARD

2008-12-10T08:47:00.010-06:00

What to do with those wonderful scraps of fabric, trim, appliques? Turn them into a postcard! Send the postcard for birthdays, holidays, graduations. I have sent these to all parts of the country and they arrive in perfect condition. I guarantee this card won't be thrown away.

When choosing the size for your card, why not think about frame sizes? These will be cherished and will look great in a frame. Here is the easiest step by step instructions for a 4" X 6" postcard.

Supplies: 4" X 6" quilted front fabric. I like to make it a little bigger and trim it later. 4" X 6" postcard back. I madke my postcard backs on microsoft word and print it on card stock for writing ease. 4" X 6" 2-sided iron-on Timtex, a heavy interfacing stabilizer. 24" trim. Invisible thread and overcast foot.~

2. Iron quilt front to one side of Timtex. ~

3. Iron the postcard back to other side of the Timtex . ~

4. Trim all sides using postcard back as guide. It is okay if the postcard is not exactly 4" X 6".

5. Using an overcast foot and invisible thread, sew trim to edge of card. ~

6. This is what the back of the card looks like. ~

7. This is the front of the card. ~

8. Put on a 27 cent stamp and make someone smile!~

Please comment and let me know if you have any questions. Love for you to fill out your reaction to these instructions.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

THINGS THAT GO PLAYMAT.. designed for the autistic child

2008-12-09T09:51:00.012-06:00

This is my newest play quilt that can be used in several different ways. It can be hung in a newborn's crib. Games that can be played with the quilt are I Spy, Matching, Memory, and Tic Tac Toe. This is also great travel game, because it can be folded up into a small packet.

I work with special needs children in an early intervention preschool. From my observations, I have designed this playmat. Using these pictures, the child can learn about different modes of transportation as well as vocabulary. The large, simple pictures that can be matched will give the child a sense of accomplishment. As the child grows, tic tac toe is a great teaching tool for socialization by learning to take turns and sharing.

Here are pictures of the nine 4" mini quilts which can also be used as imaginary vehicles.
Here is the play mat with the above 9 mini quilts.

Here are is the quilt with the X's and O's that can be played by the whole family of all pages.

These are closeups of several of the mini quilted play pieces

The quilt is made of 100% cotton and all pieced can be hand washed and dried flat.

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

CHRISTMAS MONEY HOLDERS

2008-12-07T10:14:00.005-06:00

What a fun way to find money, not under the tree, but on the tree. These 6"inch shiny stockings have a beaded holder and a small pocket to hold something special inside. They are stuffed with polyester batting.

To fill your whimsy, here are some bright fabrics for that contemporary tree. Please note that the green dotted stocking is already sold and hanging on someone's tree!

Not into the stocking thing, these cute money holders will also hold the gift cards too! The pouch can then be used to hold those cards in your purse and the larger tag can be a great book mark.

This one has all sorts of flip flops and asia sandals on a black background.
This sweet gift card or money holder has swirling pink ladies inside a rose bud case.

For the Fashionista on your list, high heeled shoes, purses, and sunglasses are called for inside of green pouch. As always, they can be purchase on Etsy: quiltingcafe.etsy.com

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

Naughty, but funny, Postcards with Tattoo Girls

2008-12-06T13:44:00.009-06:00

These certainly would be nontraditional Christmas card, but wouldn't your friends get a laugh. I just had to add these bad girls and their funny sayings to my tattoo girl postcards. Here's one for either side in a divorce. I can think of a few I would like to yell this to!!! Here is one for the woman with the sexually challenged man...minus the romance for sure.

Honey, if I had 4 martinis I would be in the bathroom. But doesn't Dorothy Parker say it so well? Do you know anyone this may pertain too, or would be funny just to send it to. Well, it is an old saying, but after a certain age, we ladies know it is true!

To purchase these and other fun cards...see my site: quiltingcafe.etsy.com

CAKE and ICE CREAM TIC TAC TOE...PLAY to LEARN QUILT

2008-12-02T08:31:00.007-06:00

Here are some closeups of this very fun playmat with a food theme. Fun to take to a restaurant while waiting for dinner and play tic tac toe. Great to use as a placemat too!

Here are the 5 ice cream cone mini quilts to use for th tic tac toe game.

These are the closeups of the 5 pieced of cake mini quilts, also to be used for the tic tac toe game.

This bit of whimsy playmat can be bought on my site at quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

.BIRDHOUSES IN THE SNOW, paper pieced quilt

2008-12-02T08:10:00.003-06:00

Here are more pics of my sweet, singing birdhouses in the snow for sale on quiltingcafe.etsy.com

AT THE SEASHORE...PLAY to LEARN QUILT, the game that grows with your child

2008-11-22T15:14:00.011-06:00

Here are the extra pictures of my new Quilted play mat with 30's reproductions. I bought the center square with the children playing while on vacation in Michigan, not knowing what I was going to used them for. I just fell in love with them. They remind me of my favorite children's illustrator, Eloise Wilken. I only bought one fat quarter of Michael Miller's kids and can't find anymore.

This 13" X 13" visually stimulating quilt excites newborns with its brightly colored shapes, pictures and bold lines. There are 30 reproduction prints used in into this mini-quilt.Playing with the ten 4" X 4" mini quilts aids in small motor movement and dexterity. There is an elastic band that a binky could be attached to. No attachments that an infant could swallow. It would also make a great lovey.

As the child grows, a matching game with the mini-quilts using the colored designs sharpens recognition and memory skills. The sailboats and ducks can also be used as imaginary toys in their own right.

With tic-tac-toe, older children can learn cooperation through taking turns, use planning and logic through strategy, and develop early math skills through problem solving. The Sailboats and Ducks are paper pieced so they will stay intact with the other side being the bright fabrics. The beaks of the ducks are three-dimensional so little hands can explore.
The mat and playing pieces fold up into a 5-inch square and closed with an attached fabric covered elastic band.It can be tossed in a bag and played in restaurants, waiting rooms, car rides, etc. and also can be used as a place mat.
It will last through many children as well as generations. It is truly an heirloom to be cherished for many years. Since all the pieces are cotton, they can be hand washed and dried flat giving it a puckered look.
The last special order of this play mat was STARS AND STRIPES, with the tictactoe pieces represented by American flags and 3-dimensional stars. If you are interested in choosing your own fabrics and themes, please contact me at quilt.cafe@yahoo.com or check out my etsy shop at quiltingcafe.etsy.com

HOW TO MEASURE QUILT BORDERS

2008-11-16T14:31:00.007-06:00

Even the best quilters have quilts that are a little off especially when working with multiple pieced blocks. I follow this rule religiously. When it comes time to sew on the borders, no matter how uneven the quilt may be remember this mantra: MEASURE THROUGH THE CENTER ONLY. DO NOT STRETCH! Forget about all the other measurements. Don't believe me, try it!

Problem: The quilt top is slightly longer than the border.
Solution: Sew with the quilt top on the bottom, when you put it through the sewing machine. Your sewing machine’s feed dogs will help resolve the problem by easing in the excess fabric.

Problem: The borders are slightly longer than the quilt top.
Solution: Sew the border on with the border fabric next to feed dogs underneath the quilt.

HANDCRAFTED CELL PHONE CASES

2008-11-15T19:18:00.006-06:00

Our family's two year cell phone contract was up this week. According to my three daughters, you have to upgrade your phones or you will be so out of it. With these new cell phones come new challenges. They are no long flip phones, but sliders. Specifically, they have touch screens that scratch easily. Mom to the rescue: quilted cell phone cases with the fabric of their choice.

These cell phone cases were designed by my 20 something daughter for her new Propel cell phone. She purposely did not want flaps, closures, or pockets. The case protects the phone, which can be flipped open without taking it completely out of the case. The cell phone fits snuggly into the case without falling out and adds very little bulk when jammed into jean or hoodie pockets and wristlets and purses. Think of the scary state of their backpacks!

The quilted cases fits several different sized phones. They are made with top quality cotton fabrics and batting and are hand washable. The top edge is has double binding for extra durability. For added security of a lost phone, I added a phone number on the inside.

If you know anyone that is getting a new cell phone for the holiday, this would make a great stocking stuffer or secret santa gift. This would also make a great case for gift cards, credit cards, or your collection of frequent buyer cards.Visit my site: quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

FABRIC POSTCARDS: Tattoo Collection

2008-11-12T10:07:00.005-06:00

I just added these two large quilted postcards to my Tattoo Collection, seen on the right. Everyone seems to love these diva ladies. I imagine they could be on the new show "Sons of Anarchy", on tonight. These cards would also be a fun way to send holiday greetings to the non-traditionalist, wouldn't it?

I have added metallic thread to the cards to make our diva girls really stand out. As if they needed anything more. One of the cards is finished with black fabric binding. The other card is finished with silver braid overcast with blue metallic thread. They really glitter.

I have sent fabric postcards to my family and friends. I have seen them after they have come through the mail. You would never know they had been handled by the post office. I am so impressed by the fine care they have taken with them. All my customers say that these cards bring a smile to the postal workers.

Brighten someone's day, send a fabric postcard...they will know they are truly special. You can see these in detail and many more at quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

HOW TO START A SEAM

2008-11-08T09:08:00.011-06:00

Always use a scrap piece of material before beginning to sew a seam. The best starting scrap material is a long double strip of heavy duty interfacting; it is sturdy and never gets chewed up. This will alleviate the jumble of threads at the beginning of a seam on the backside. By using this piece of interfacing, quilt block points will never disappear into the machine!

New Stylings: Contemporary Christmas Tree Postcards

2008-11-07T07:27:00.013-06:00

These trees can be made in any color and pattern you desire. Let me know your requirements at quilt.cafe@yahoo.com.

These cards have been so much fun to design. I love experimenting with different fabrics together; pushing the envelope, so to speak. Instead of using a fabric binding, I used my overcast foot with gold thread over gold braid. It really gives it a nice clean, sparkly finish.

These cards are larger at 5 1/2" X 8 1/2"than the regular 4" X 6" postcards. How did I come up with that size. It is half a sheet of cardstock. so when I print the back, I get exactly 2 postcards with no waste. This is a great size for a picture frame. Also, you can write more on the back. These took more time because I buttonhole stitched around each piece of the tree. You can see the layers of the tree really pop!

Come and see the detail of these great cards in my shop:

quiltingcafe.etsy.com

QUILTS OF THE NORTHWOODS, Fish to Water

2008-11-03T07:47:00.009-06:00

It does not matter what part of the country you live, or what country you live for that matter, everyone has their own Northwoods. It is that area where we go for nature. We look for our trees, wildlife, fresh air, and, many times, water. My northwoods is Boulder Junction.

Boulder Junction is located in Wisconsin’s Northern Highland State Forest. It is the official Musky Capital of the world. These muskies are swimming in one of the 194 lakes within a 9-mile drive of downtown. Our little slice of heaven is on Oswego Lake, a 60 acre no motor lake located minutes from town. The area has scenic paved and rugged trail systems for hiking and biking. Being in the Lake Superior Snowbelt, snowmobilers enjoy the 130 miles of trails across the area. This forest and lakes helped Vilas County to be number one in the cleanest air in the state. The scent of pine in the air is palpable.

The town of Boulder Junction is at once charming and functional. We have noteworthy restaurants, shops, and accommodations. However, none of this would be as appealing without the people that live, work, and vacation in Boulder Junction. Going into town becomes more than errands, but a visit to catch up with news and happenings.

It is this breath of sweet pine air of the woods, fresh sauerkraut rye from the local bakery, bluest skies and darkest nights, and friendly community that settle my soul and becomes my muse for my northwoods quilts. After all, quilts and the northwoods go together. Whether it is a small postcard quilt to frame or say thanks for the weekend; and lap quilt to keep warm or a landscape wallhanging, these are all for sale on etsy site, quiltingcafe.etsy.com. Come take a look at these and the HOLIDAY primitive folk art quilted items presently for sale at Quilting Cafe.

PUMPKIN GUTS: Inside the Etsy Pumpkins

2008-10-30T15:23:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to share my latest treasury...if you have time, visit and click each pic to make hot, hot, hot
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=30835

QUILTSY TEAM featured on Etsy Storque and Etsy Finds

2008-10-29T11:54:00.004-05:00

Quilting Cafe, where something is always brewing

How exciting...my quilting group, Quiltsy, is featured today http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight/etsy-finds-warming-up-piece-by-piece-2660/check out all my friends here and on etsy!

CHRISTMAS CARDS: Lessen the Hassle with Quilted Postcards

2008-10-28T18:35:00.005-05:00

Time was, sending out Christmas cards was a time-honored tradition. One not to be messed with. Lists were made. Names were checked off as cards were sent as well as received. Every precaution was made so that no one was left out.The cards were displayed in inventive ways with pride. It was always a part of the decorating scheme. So many were usually sent out that printing the signature line became de rigueur. Businesses also sent them out. Even address books came with a separate line for each name to keep track of Christmas cards sent and received.

However, soon flocked Christmas cards with elaborate designs gave way to cheap photo cards made at the local drug store. Time to show off pictures of the kids, grandkids, dogs, cats, and vacation shots. Ho hum.

With today’s busy schedules and the general cost of postage, we think twice about to whom we send cards. This may be the one time of the year that our high school friend or college roommate hears from us. Maybe there is a lonely aunt who whose day would be brightened with a special card. Certain in-laws get them, others, do not. However, who wants to spend money on something that will eventually be thrown away? Enter the quilted fabric postcard.

Fabric postcards have long been the rage in the quilting world. It started as a way to experiment with new techniques and exchange with other quilters. Usually a stiffener is added as the batting layer for easier mailing. The 4 X 6 inch cards cost only 27 cents to mail.

Today it is a booming business on etsy.com. Therefore, I have just added 5 new holiday cards to my Postcards and Quotations series for the Holidays. The cards use old photographs, raw edge applique, and landscape techniques.I will be adding more cards up until the holidays, so stop back often if only for a giggle for the day at quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

Don't forget, you can always request a magnet to your order...these make great refridgerator magnets!

NEW ADDITIONS TO AUNT RUTH'S STASH

2008-10-26T11:21:00.013-05:00

I have just listed 8 new collections of vintage ribbon from my Aunt Ruth's Stash. Instead of just offering 5 shades of one color, I have collection of trios of matching and complimentary colors. quiltingcafe.etsy.com

For those of you who do not know the story of these vintage supplies, here it is:

My aunt is very special to me. She took care of me when I was young, listened to me when I was growing up, and gave me advice as an adult. “Auntie Ruthie” makes the best fried chicken and doll clothes. With a lovable smile and delightful laugh, I am lucky to have her as a hands-on aunt.

My 85-year-old Aunt Ruth is an incredible seamstress and quilter. She sewed the most incredible Barbie clothes for me as a child, great Dresden Plate quilt for my wedding, and a baby quilt for each of my 4 children.

Her daughters, my dear cousins, recently gave me her wonderful stash of fabrics and embellishments. I thought what better way to pass on her wonderful stash than by selling them in my etsy shop and donating the proceeds to Alzheimer's Research. The response has been incredible. Not only are the prices reasonable, but the quality of vintage fabrics can be far above today's offerings. And it is a great way to recycle, reuse, or repurpose her treasures. Those who buy appreciate her lifelong enthusiasm.

I have named here collection: Aunt Ruth's Stash. On the vintage ribbon cards is a picture of her taken in 1955 by my father. It is lit only by the light from the campfire. at the family farm. Proceeds from this sale have already benefitted the 2008 Memory Walk in Chicago. http://www.alz.org/memorywalk/ Ruth's grandaughter, Martha put together team to walk to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, as well as for care and support for people already affected by the disease. Future proceeds will benefit The Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative (AAQI)Raising Awareness & Funding Research Through Art www.AlzQuilts.org. The last picture is of her in the summer of 2007, at 85.

QUILTS: More than a Blanket

2008-10-21T11:05:00.018-05:00

With the way the world is today, we all just want to get under the blankets and hide. It is our most comfortable place to be, not only as an baby, but as a child and onwards into old age. We all have some Linus in us. It seems as though our household purchases mirror our stock purchases, short lived and quickly turned over. When something breaks, falls apart, or gets old, we discard it. We do not hold handcrafted items dear to our hearts anymore because they are not the newest thing out. Remember, the hottest article for sale is usually made in a factory by underpaid workers who had no input in its design. Not so with a quilt: it is a comforter.

Quilt making has always made resurgence in the marketplace when economic times were low. The last time quilting revived itself was in the 70's; it shows no evidence of ebbing soon. The rotary cutter, self-healing mat, and fabulous new fabrics in specialty shops have made quilting easier and more accessible then ever. Quilting as an art form is the newest kid on the block. Quilters are freer to make more interesting choices now that the quilt police are gone.

Each quilt starts with an idea and continues with an intricate and purposeful series of steps, resulting in a masterful conclusion. The end use of a quilt is no longer utilitarian. An art quilt can sheathe a wall, a quilted runner can grace a table, or a purse made with fine quilted material can be the ultimate accessory. The quilt a baby receives from a shower can be treasured into adult hood. Likewise, a wedding quilt handmade by a grandmother is cherished long after the maker is gone. A quilt becomes an object of affection rather than a commercial article.

There are a few basic entities necessary for humans to exist. However, to make life enjoyable, we want our investments to grow. What is better than to invest in a quilt. It will bring a larger return over a longer amount of time than most stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Furthermore, what is more satisfying than giving a quilt to someone and watching the thrill on their faces. These pictures tell it all.

CUSTOMIZED TEACHERS GIFTS

2008-10-20T07:07:00.014-05:00

Just added these great caricatures of teachers. There are 15 different types, from kindergarten to professor. Teachers can never have too many magnets for their white/black boards, doors, and file cabinets. This blondie is for my daughter, Victoria, who is in her first year of teaching English at Grayslake Central High School. We are so very proud of her!

The "teacher" stands 6" high and is made from Loralie Designs "Roll Call". She is stiffened with timtex interfacing. Her back is covered with white felt and a magnet. I have edged her with bright cording finished with an overcast stitch. The vibrant colors and cute caricature make this a very fun gift to give to your favorite teacher. This one would be great for a kindergarten or art teacher.

They can also be fashioned an ornament with a vintage ribbon added. By by painting the hair, I can change blond or red into brown, or darken up lighter hair. It is really fun to add her name, the student's name, and year for a great remembrance. I also have some great quotes to put on the back; for example: As long as there are tests in school, there will be prayer.

To see all the "teachers" for choices, please check this site: http://ww w.lo raliedesigns.com/FabricShow/Product/CoolSchool.html

BOOTS and STARS... PLAY to LEARN QUILT, the game that grows with your child

2008-10-19T12:55:00.011-05:00

Here are the extra pictures of my Boots and Stars...Play to Learn Quilted Playmat listed on quiltingcafe.etsy.com.

As you can imagine, these were so much fun to do, not only picking out the fabric, but fussy cutting the lizard, cowboy,etc. on the boots. The stars are really fun for little fingers to play with because they are three dimensional.

Purchasing Toys for Autistic Children

2008-10-18T08:10:00.009-05:00

Yesterday, I asked several special ed educators at an at risk preschool to critique my Play to Learn quilted playmat: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16191248

They were very positive with the following observation. This would be for a learning disabled child that could differentiate between the advanced patterns. These patterns could be overwhelming to some children not yet able to discern the differences between the small patterned circles. But as the child progresses, he or she would be able to play cohesively with the matching game.

As with any child, purchasing a toy must be appropriate to their abilities. Many times, we think that we should challenge them which will make them "smarter". However, frustration leads to abandonment of the game and a sense of failure. Simple, repetitive games give a child a sense of accomplishment with readiness to move on to the next level. This is especially true with the autistic child.

I have been working in the classroom with autistic children for 13 years. These experiences have be the most fruitful of my professional life.

QUILTING: The Queen of Green

2008-10-17T19:05:00.007-05:00

Quilting is really the ultimate in green. After all, I don’t throw away a scrap. As you can see, my quilting studio is a testament to that. Not only do I save the tiniest of scraps, I also reuse vintage materials, repurpose my daughter’s jeans , cut off buttons and zippers from worn out clothing, and recycle where I can.

Though the Alchemy site on Etsy.com, I read that a Louisville MOMs Group is having a Recycle, Repurpose, and Reuse theme at their next meeting. I knew my shop would fit the bill. The Louisville Brightside organizer coming to speak to the group on ways to help in Louisville. Someone in the group always prepares a packet to give to each mom.

Since they might be interested in my products with Christmas coming up, and going green being such a hot topic, I am sending them my business cards with vintage ribbon from my Aunt Ruth's stash attached. In order to induce members to come, I donated the following folk art postcard and magnets. I hope they have a great meeting. I look forward to hearing from the members.

HUGS and KISSES... PLAY to LEARN QUILT, the game that grows with your child

2008-10-17T18:27:00.014-05:00

I work with developmentally challenged preschoolers everyday. Learning I be broken down into the simplest steps. Steps we take for granted. Repetitive actions and reinforcements help all children. I decided to combine my quilting into a travel game that is appropriate for all ages.

This 13″ X 13″ visually stimulating quilt excites newborns with its bright colored shapes and bold lines. Playing with the ten 4″ X 4″ mini quilts aids in small motor movement and dexterity. No attachments that an infant could swallow. As the child grows, a matching game with the mini-quilts using the colored designs sharpens recognition and memory skills.

The mat and playing pieces fold up into a 5-inch square and closed with an attached fabric covered elastic band.It can be tossed in a bag and played in restaurants, waiting rooms, car rides, etc. and also can be used as a placemat or security blanket.

It will last through many children as well as generations. It is truly an heirloom to be cherished for many years. Since all the pieces are cotton, they can be hand-washed and dried flat giving it a puckered look.
If you would like it made up in other colors or themes, please e-mail me at quilt.cafe@yahoo.com

How to Personalize a Quilt Label

2008-10-17T18:07:00.003-05:00

For a professional finish to your quilts, make a personal label for the back as follows:
1. Iron heat and bond lite onto fabric.
2. Cut out squares out with fancy scissors.
3. Type out info for label in Word on Computer, centering words. I use “Andy” font. I insert some clip art.
4. Tape cut out label onto computer screen. this works as a light box.
5. Using micro-tipped ink pen, trace over letters, it looks freehand, but very neat.
6. Color clip art, if used.
7. Iron onto quilt back.
8. I usually do a running embroidery stitch around outside of label for added strength.