loft creations

West Linn PiPs

2012-01-27T07:08:00.003-05:00

The West Linn PiPs are singing in 3-part harmony. Once upon a time I was supposed to teach this bag but it never happened. I like to be prepared and I'm a visual person so I had the pattern in various stages of construction. Knowing that I didn't really want to finish 3 bags I decided to finish the one most complete and give the other two to a friend.

This bag is now singing solo and no longer a Pip! It's been a very productive month. How are your PiPs coming along?

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Velveteen Bean

2012-01-26T00:14:00.002-05:00

Lovely Anna Maria Horner velveteen waiting in my stash. I finally had an idea--I wanted to make a String Bean block from my newest quilt pattern using the velveteen. Before working with this luscious velveteen I hopped on over to Anna Maria's blog for some tips. What I've learned:

*It washes beautifully -- there is some shrinkage and fraying

*Anna Maria mentions "snow" -- yes, indeed little bitty balls of stuff everywhere. I recommend you wash it alone and not with clothes, especially dark ones

*A 90/14 needle works well when sewing through the double layers

*Cotton thread is what I sew with all of the time and it worked well with the velveteen

*The velveteen "walks" a wee bit when you sew on it--pin well

*There is some fraying after it's cut so be a bit careful when handling it

*Pressing with steam works fine

*Not sure I'd do lots of small cutting and sewing like when making quilt blocks -- bigger is better

*It's luxurious and lovely and I'd love an entire quilt made from it -- since it's a heavier weight fabric there would be no need for batting

*I totally want a velveteen bag

Now what to do with the lone Velveteen String Bean...

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Sing for Your Supper

2012-01-25T07:37:00.000-05:00

Confused by the post title? Stay with me. Candace and I read the foodie blog Octoberfarm. Recently she made Sauerkraut Soup from the Octoberfarm blog. If you like to cook or just like to look at food, I highly recommend visiting Octoberfarm.

Forgot to show the Worcestershire sauce in the previous photo so it got a close-up. Any who...Candace was the guinea pig on this recipe and since she declared it delicious I decided to make a pot.

This is Sage, Rosemary and Thyme by Simon and Garfunkel. Hum where parsley is supposed to be. Are you starting to sing along now?

The Rolling Stones are singing this odd soup ingredient -- Brown Sugar. I feel a dance move about to happen!

There should be a song about bacon -- bacon and sauteeing onions -- this is how Julie Andrews starts her soup from the very beginning...a very good place to start.

Be sure you don't substitute mint dental floss for kitchen twine if you tie your herbs together.

Just add a dollop of sour cream and a cheesy biscuit or two because Three Dog Night says one is the loneliest number that you'll ever do, two can be as bad as one (just ask my hips). This is Soupercalifragilistic!

Some days you just need to sing, dance, and make soup.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Little Stool

2012-01-24T07:52:00.003-05:00

As I spent yesterday sorting and organizing fabric/patterns/doodads I spied little stool shoved in a corner like a wall flower. Poor thing. Then I realized I hadn't shared it.

It reminds me of a giant polka dot and a little polka dot at the bottom. It needs to be recovered and the wood needs some loving care. Yes, I did find this little beauty at my favorite antique mall.

I do love the old fashioned look of the large brown paisley print but little stool needs to be recovered. The pretty little gloves were an intentional buy as I do have a plan. The little stool was a happy incidental purchase. I would love a gorgeous velveteen for the new cover. Maybe subtle polka dots???

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Monday

2012-01-23T09:11:00.000-05:00

It's Monday already? Where did the weekend go???

Love, Abby

Good Eats

2012-01-21T18:00:00.001-05:00

Bibimbap is a Korean dish. Recipe can be found HERE. I have been to Korea, many long years ago, but never had this very tasty dish.

If you have never tried Sriracha, go easy. It's Hot Cha Cha!!

In case you're curious about the gorgeous chartreuse pottery in the above photo, my daughter has a little collection of Russel Wright pottery, the originals not reproduction pieces. Mr. Creation's eagle eye spotted several pieces at our favorite antique mall recently. Daughter Creations is totally thrilled.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

PiP Progress

2012-01-20T13:26:00.001-05:00

No longer a PiP!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Something Old, Something New...

2012-01-19T06:54:00.000-05:00

nothing borrowed, nothing blue. Having won this sweet fat quarter stack from Pink Chalka month or so ago, I finally got to play. My very own All About Anna Bag. The fabric is Woodlands by Khristian A. Howell. The solid red is corduroy. Handbag happiness! Perfect with my new fleece gloves and my old polka dot shoes. Not a PiP but sometimes you just have to start something new.

When you happen upon an end of the year clearance sale and you discover the polka dots are 50% - 60% off...you most certainly indulge.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Home for Little Chair

2012-01-18T06:55:00.000-05:00

Little Chair needed a home. Loft Creations needed a little chair.

Little Chair is a perfect match for my little sewing cabinet.

Now Little Chair awaits a makeover. I would love to save the decal but that probably isn't going to be possible. It's a metal chair and Mr. Creations will use a rust proof spray paint. I think I might need a little round cushion for my derriere.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Spotted Anna

2012-01-17T07:14:00.000-05:00

All About Anna finished!!! The new owner is my friend Rumi's daughter. I started this bag while working on Sparkle Plenty. Did you notice the button? It's was hiding in my button stash. Another PiP done! What's a PiP you ask? Click on the button on my side bar for more information.

More dots! I may or may not have another All About Anna in progress--this one is for the actual Anna whom the bag is named after. She likes purple and aqua.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Wringer Washer

2012-01-16T06:15:00.000-05:00

Yep, Grandma had a wringer washer and no dryer. I remember the big round tub swishing away and her feeding the laundry through the rollers to squeeze out the water. The wringer washer was in the garage near the big wash tubs. She would fill the laundry basket and head around back to peg them to the clothesline near her rose garden. Grandma had the most amazing rose garden.

These "o" blocks remind me of Grandma's wringer washer and tub. This is a special little quilt because I was able to include 2 pieces of original 1930s fabric, scraps from my grandmother's aprons.

Wringer Washer Details:

*measures approximately 36" square

*a versatile little quilt--perfect for a wall hanging, table topper, or baby quilt

*machine quilted by the fantastic Jackie Kunkel at Canton Village Quilt Works

Wringer Washer is now available HERE as a hard copy pattern.

Simone joined the Supreme choir and tested Wringer Washer. Please be sure to visit Simone to see her beautiful version. Thank you very much, Simone!

For a chance to win a hard copy pattern of Wringer Washer please visit Simone HERE.

The biggest hug ever to my daughter for formatting 3 patterns in a week! She's amazing, awesome, talented. She's back at school full time and working part time for The Mayo Clinic while she finishes school. She graduates in June.

I shared this antique quilt top a while back. It was a source of inspiration.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

String Beans

2012-01-13T05:51:00.000-05:00

Fresh from the garden is String Beans.

Named with fond memories of Summers at Grandma's house--my sister and me--stringing and snapping green beans for dinner.

My friend, Nonnie brought her String Beans over so I could photograph it. Looks pretty in my new chair. Nonnie made this for her granddaughter. Quilted by Jackie of Canton Village Quilt Works.

* * * * *

String Beans Details:

*measures approximately 52" x 62"

*fabric is Fairgrounds by Denyse Schmidt

*quilted by the amazing Jackie Kunkel of Canton Village Quilt Works

*Supreme testers were Candace of Squash House Quilts and my friend, Nonnie (no blog)--thank you dear ladies. Please click on over to see Candace's super fun version of String Beans. You won't want to miss it. She has been a very busy Supreme and ready to test at the drop of a hat.

*Now available HERE as a hard copy pattern

How about Nonnie's Christmas Beans? Don't you love it?

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Clean Space is a Happy Place

2012-01-12T06:20:00.001-05:00

Cute things! Yesterday I discovered the floor in my sewing room. I also discovered I have too much fabric I know I'll never use so the piles began.

Now that the patterns are printed, folded, stuffed and shipped it was time to organize. All better now. I typed, printed, and laminated. Then cut and attached velcro tabs to the tags and $1 plastic shoe boxes. A very inexpensive way to get organized.

Pretty blue things. Still more to do before I get reacquainted with my Janome. As for those piles of fabric--a new donation bag has been started.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Pattern Winner

2012-01-11T07:27:00.000-05:00

Someone is feeling a bit neglected! With 3 new patterns in the works, yes I said 3 so stay tuned, much of my time has been spent at Fed Ex/Kinkos printing and UPS shipping. On Sunday my kitchen was closed due to lack of interest. My dining room is the packing and shipping department.

I do manage to get out of my pajamas, eventually, and take Abby for a walk. Currently the breakfast of champions is a plain toasted bagel smeared with whipped cream cheese and topped with homemade Peach Habanero jam. I have a wonderful jam-making friend in California and the peaches are from her very own trees and the habanero from her very own garden. Tea and jam make everything better.

* * * * *

Mr. Creations is my random generator and he selected #47 -- Linda -- as the winner of All About Anna pattern. Congratulations. Thank you everyone for playing along. I do appreciate your very kind comments.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

All About Anna

2012-01-09T06:04:00.000-05:00

All About Anna is finally here! What's in a name? Anna is my niece and mother of Hailee Bag. Anna is named after my grandmother, also known as Mrs. Steve, one of my garden ladies.

All About Anna has a two option handle -- fabric or cute leather. My very talented daughter not only did another awesome cover but made a new logo for Loft Creations too.

Anna has divided front pockets as well as an inner pocket. Notice the polka dots on my sunglasses? The grey with pink polka dots is corduroy.

* * * * *

All About Anna Details:

*measures 15 1/2" w x 3" d x 11" h (19" with handle drop)
*Fabric -- Sunkissed by Sweetwater for Moda
*Charm pack friendly
*cute handles from Superbuzzy

*Now available HERE as a hard copy

A million thanks to Supremes Candace and Cindy for their super sewing skills and their exercise in extreme patience. Please go visit them so see their versions of All About Anna. A giant hug to my daughter, Allison, for everything.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. Fancy a giveaway? Leave a comment on this post only for a chance to win a hard copy pattern of All About Anna. Please tell me which you prefer -- the mountains or the beach. I love the mountains. I'll announce the winner on Wednesday January 11. For another chance to win be sure to visit Candace.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Coming VERY Soon

2012-01-07T07:46:00.001-05:00

This is a bit more than a sneak peek but way back in March 2009, when I was first getting started designing bags, I made what was to be called Allison Wonderland and shared it on my blog. It got shelved as I had a "design flaw" with the handle. Fast forward nearly 3 years, a name change, handle fixed and my newest pattern will be available on Monday.

FYI--All PDFs of my existing patterns have been removed from my Etsy store. Different distributors have different requirements and I am in the midst of getting some clarification. For now patterns will be available in my Etsy store in hard copy only.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Color Conversation with V

2012-01-05T06:33:00.000-05:00

Victoria of Bumble Beans is a colorful gal. She pairs colors and prints that sing loud and clear. Recently she and I have been having a conversation about color. Some people may think her choices "odd." But what does that really mean? Colors you don't like? Colors you would never think to pair? I find Victoria's color palettes interesting, vibrant, exciting. Please visit Victoria for a series of interviews about color. First up, yours truly. Since Victoria interviewed me I thought it appropriate if she shared her colorful thoughts with us.

*Name 5 colors you think are "odd" together or weird combos?
Hmm... I like all colors together, but I think anything with a green and yellow in contrast to each other is odd in a not so great way..

But odd to me normally is a good thing... If I lighten all those values they becomes something wonderful!

*Is there a color you find you always use? RED, over and over... I am drawn to bright tomato red...(and gold and aqua) OK, that's not one... sorry, it's a three way tie!

*Name three colors you use most together: RED, YELLOW, BLUE... red as a dominant or dark... yellow as a neutral... blue for shock and awe... and throw in some purple or gray and I am very happy!

*Can you relate your favorite color to something in your childhood? Yes. We had a RED front door painted International Harvester RED, we had RED IH tractors, and RED snowmobiles....Now, my coffee table in my house is the same IH RED color...and in all my quilts...

*What color makes you feel happy? Red feels Warm to me...

*Can you tell me why? I prefer the heat to the winter cold... But I also love deep chocolate BROWN as it feels like a big bear hug...enveloping and safe... my bed is covered in chocolate brown linen...

*Is there a color you avoid? I think I actually avoid orange. Orange is probably my favorite personal color, but when I try to make a quilt with it, it feels like to much...I think I put to much pressure on myself to make the perfect orange quilt...LOL!

*Can you go to colorlovers and make a palette that you think is very YOU? ( red, blue, yellow, green, lavender)

*A favorite quilt you've made that represents these colors you use often? Funny enough my favorite quilt doesn't fit my normal color range...it's blue yellow and browns... go figure! But it fits in the BROWN mode...It's very snuggly and cozy feeling to me... with just a bit of BRIGHT to keep you interested!

Color is such a funny thing; it hits us in such an emotional way. I'm always interested in what colors people are drawn to. I think too many people have fear when using color. We make choices everyday about color, it's intuitive, we just need to focus on listening to it more. Unlike paint, you can mix them all up together and you won't get brown! SO explore, create, throw them all into the mix and see what happens.

Above is a photo of Victoria's stash. Once upon a time I had color tunnel vision until my daughter became interested in art and color at a very young age. Her sense of style and taste has developed into something really amazing and makes me stop and look at colors/fabrics I might normally walk past perhaps now I gravitate towards. I think people have ideas of what colors should go together not can go together. So if you pair butterscotch and magenta and it sings to you, then it's perfect. I think color is a feeling.
s

My new living room furniture is grey and pea soup green/yellow but the walls are an amazing soft grey/blue. Once upon a time I'd say HUH??? I'm much better at playing with color because of my daughter and Victoria is also a big source of inspiration.

I keep a folder of color combinations I like--mostly pages torn from magazines but I also like to visit the paint store for color chips. If you'd like to play with color palettes Victoria led me to a great site called Colourlovers. It's free but you do have to join to play. I find myself wanting to play with new palettes, even though it's no secret I do love blue and green. Once upon a time you might be surprised to know that I loved the muddy colors of beige/tan, cranberry/burgundy, cadet blue, forest green -- the Thimbleberry palette.

How about you? Have an "odd" color palette waiting to become a quilt?

~Piecefully, Stephanie

First PiP

2012-01-03T07:32:00.000-05:00

Leftover vintage spools from THIS pattern...

became cute little gift bags. My very first PiP completion.

If you noticed my new blog banner the sweet pincushion and personalized sewing machine cover were Christmas gifts from a very talented and amazing friend.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

PiP and The Big Stitch

2012-01-02T07:52:00.000-05:00

The winner of this beautiful Montecito 20-piece fat quarter stack from Connecting Threads is #23 Needled Mom. Congratulations!

This PiP (project in progress) got pushed aside many months ago. I am big stitch hand quilting using a #5 embroidery needle and #12 Prescencia. Very convenient the border fabric already has lines printed.

The center portion of my kaleidoscope quilt is done--only the borders left to quilt. Tutorial HERE for anyone interested in making this block. After I layered the quilt I machine stitched in the ditch to anchor it down. I find using a hoop is cumbersome at times so the "in the ditch" keeps the layers from shifting. I used a blue washable pen to mark my stitching circles. They'll wash out when I'm finished. Big stitch quilting is very satisfying and with more practice my stitches may get more even.

I do hope to hand quilt more projects this year.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

New from Connecting Threads--GIVEAWAY CLOSED

2011-12-31T07:52:00.001-05:00

Connecting Threads generously sends me new collections before being released for public sale. Blue and white is such a classic, crisp look. I call it Blue Textile Stew and it looks so yummy in my new Lodge coated Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Symphony of Blues is the name of this collection and can be purchased HERE. Connecting Threads does not ship outside of the U.S and Canada. Please click HERE for shipping information.

Oh how I love flannels. I already have plans for this stack of cuteness called Wild Ones and it can be viewed more closely HERE. You'll love the gators and elephants! I pre-wash all of my fabric and this washes like a dream.

If you're looking for bright and happy fabric to chase away the Winter blues then Monetcito is for you! Do you like my new toy irons? I couldn't leave one behind so they both came home with me from my very favorite antique mall.

These are my iron soldiers. I think the biggest bone of contention among quilter/sewists has to be the iron. I'll leave you to wonder which one I use. :o)

A very big thank you to Connecting Threads for the happiest mail a girl can receive--boxes of fabric.

If you're still with me then you shall be rewarded. Since Connecting Threads has been so generous I want to share the love. Did you swoon over Montecito? If you want a chance for 20 fat quarters of Montecito to arrive in your mailbox please click HERE then come back and tell me your favorite piece in the collection--there are 20 pieces in this collection. The Quilter's Candy at the bottom of the page is not part of this collection. I will announce the winner on January 2. (toy iron not included)

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Soldier and His Quilt

2011-12-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

James loves his quilt. He recognized his shirts and smiled. I was so delighted to give it to him in person.

He left this morning for Fort Hood, Texas, missed already, and his quilt went with him. Soldiers need quilts too!

With her boy gone and sensing her girl is leaving soon, Abby is in mourning.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Be a Pipster in 2012

2011-12-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

Want to be a Pipster? Please join me in finishing Projects in Progress during 2012.

Here are the rules:

*No rules, no sign ups, no contract signed in blood

*You don't have to follow me, facebook, tweet, stumble upon or show pinterest

*I'm going to put this cute button on my side bar and during the new year list the PiPs I complete

*Please feel free to use this button or make your own--click HERE for cute, free images
*You may blog about it and use my button but I would appreciate a link back

I certainly don't subscribe to "she who dies with the most PiPs wins!"

Leave me a comment and let me know if you want to join the Pipster Parade. Remember this is just for fun and encouragement. If you really don't want to finish a PiP then perhaps you might consider giving it to someone who will.

Have fun!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Pips

2011-12-28T18:07:00.000-05:00

Santa brought me a Polka Dot spatula so what's a girl to do but find the perfect vintage fabric to match, of course! This awesome green polka dot jar fabric was tied up with string at my favorite antique mall. It has gathers, seams, a hem, and a strap with a button hole. Someone's UFO. Makes me wonder if one day someone will squeal over my UFOs. Also makes me think about how many I have. I am not going to count.

Diana Ross had the Supremes. I have my own Supremes (awesome pattern testers). Gladys Knight had the Pips. I also have my own Pips (projects in progress). Each January I work on those Pips so my goal is to share the finished projects in the new year. Now I must focus little grasshopper.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

December Blogger BOM

2011-12-27T14:58:00.000-05:00

My version of the Blogger BOM--kona solids and aboriginal fabric

Pat Sloan is the designer for this month's Blogger BOM. Please click HERE for her tutorial and directions for block number 4. Great block, Pat! For more information on Jackie's Blogger BOM please click HERE.

Want to win this? Pat is having a very generous giveaway so go visit and leave a comment telling her your top goal for 2012.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Cookie Tester

2011-12-25T10:11:00.005-05:00

Do you see what I see?

2011-12-23T10:45:00.002-05:00

A little pre-Christmas polka dot therapy

And finally...the correct ottoman just in time for Christmas.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Basket of Goodies

2011-12-21T15:36:00.000-05:00

Today I received a sweet gift from a dear friend. She weaves the prettiest baskets. Perhaps I shall fill it with vintage bobbins

or colorful spools of thread

fat quarters in my favorite colors

yards and yards of rick rack

maybe patterns

Thank you dear friend. May your basket always be full of whatever makes you smile.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Ready for Christmas

2011-12-18T12:26:00.000-05:00

Freshly bathed and wearing her brand new collar, Abby is excited about Christmas but most of all the arrival of her boy--tomorrow afternoon.

*************************************************************************

Please click HERE to see the beautiful gift Cille made for her friend.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Calendar Girls

2011-12-15T06:08:00.000-05:00

Using Shutterfly I finally assembled a calendar of the Ladies. I had 4 calendars printed--one for me and the others I hand delivered to their new owners--Mom, my sister, and my aunt. I still plan to tell their stories in book form, one day.

My very favorite month--Miss April is my grandmother and the dress and apron fabrics from the 1930s are the real thing. Grandma had aprons made from them. Thanks Mom for being the keeper of the treasures and passing them on to me.

Their stories have been told on my blog HERE and HERE for anyone interested.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Holiday Tea

2011-12-14T07:09:00.001-05:00

No madhouse last minute crafting here. Instead I'm taking time to enjoy family and friends. Dear Friend Rumi came over yesterday. We chatted, ate scones with cream and jam and little sandwiches made of prosciutto, brie, thinly sliced apples and arugula. I brushed the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkled them with my homemade lavender sugar before baking.

Don't forget the tea! Earl Grey Creme was the perfect cuppa.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Feelin' Groovy

2011-12-12T19:51:00.000-05:00

2011 has been a big year for Loft Creations.

*I am thankful for the encouragement of family and dear friends.

*I am indebted to my amazingly talented daughter and so proud to call her my daughter.

*I am amazed at the insight and wisdom from my son and proud he is my son.

*I am thankful, lucky, and grateful to have Mr. Creations.

*I am lucky to have the support, talent and patience of a wonderful Choir of Supreme Sewers.

*I feel fortunate to have received insight, encouragement and support from some wonderful ladies "in the business." You know who you are.

*I am grateful for the opportunities I've been given by distribution companies such as Petersen-Arne, Crafts Americana, United Notions/Moda and as of this afternoon Checker Distributors. (insert happy dance)

*Thank you to the shops who have taken a chance on me and purchased my patterns.

Whether you are a regular reader or an occasional visitor I am grateful for your support, kindness and encouragement as well. Today I'm slowin' down and feelin' groovy! Enjoy.

***

Very piecefully, Stephanie

Little by Little

2011-12-10T16:45:00.000-05:00

Little by little the living room is coming together. Obviously still waiting for the correct ottoman, however today we picked up my birthday present. Do you notice the art work? I have loved Charley Harper's art since I discovered him many years ago. To read more about him please click HERE.

Winter

Spring

Summer

Fall

I couldn't seem to get a good photo of this one without glare or my reflection. Charley Harper's work is whimsical and makes me smile.

I still need new lamps and curtains and Abby is hoping for a new quilt to coordinate with the living room. Yes, Dear Abby, you'll get your new quilt but not until after the New Year. Not much crafting happening at Loft Creations and Christmas is coming whether I'm ready or not!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Fire and Ice

2011-12-07T16:21:00.000-05:00

Sitting on the tarmac waiting our turn to be de-iced. On the way to sunny Southern California to celebrate my mom's 80th birthday.

Family, friends, fun, food, fire. Lovely to visit, glad to be home.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Happy Things

2011-11-29T13:56:00.000-05:00

While shopping for toys to donate to our local Christmas Toy drive I found this. Right there on the box it had my name. This one for me and a sweet aqua and pink one to donate. It needs a cute little mat underneath so I think there will be a future project. When life gets hectic have a tea party!

I rarely submit my name for giveaways but I read Kathy's blog and knew I had to comment. Oh happy day to see I'd won The Woodlands by Khristian Howell. It arrived while my daughter was home and although she cringes at rick rack she thought the blue would be OK. I still love her. When life gets hectic play with your fabric.

Are you sensing a theme here? Hectic Holidays--'tis the season to be happy but I had to use my unhappy voice with the furniture folks. See my new living room furniture was delivered 12 weeks ago but the ottoman was the wrong color. There was a reorder and I didn't ask for any compensation and none was offered but I did ask for them to expedite the order. Today, another 6 weeks of waiting, the ottoman was delivered in the exact same wrong color as the first one. After calling and talking to the store manager I told him I'd been very patient and suggested they have a sliding scale for compensating customers for the store errors. He quoted me a number and I counter-offered. We came to terms. I strongly suggested that the ottoman take top priority and I have it lickety-split. He's calling me next week. We're on a first name basis.

All I want for Christmas is my ottoman...

~Piecefully, Stephanie

The Last Stitch

2011-11-28T10:18:00.000-05:00

The last stitch was put in last night. I still need to do the label but that will have to wait just a bit.

My son's Christmas quilt, Business Casual, is a huge check off my scary list. I loved every minute making it.

Business Casual

*74" x 86"

*80 courthouse steps blocks

*made from my son's striped shirts

*quilted by Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works

Hurry on over to Jackie's on line store because she's having a fantastic Cyber Monday sale.

Now I'll be stepping away from the computer for a bit. I'm packing my suitcase cause "I'm leaving on a jet plane..." this week to attend Mom's 80th birthday celebration.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Reader Appreciation

2011-11-26T07:26:00.000-05:00

As a thank you to my blog readers, whether you leave comments or not, Mom is letting me offer most of her PDFs in her Etsy shop 50% off for a limited time. Sale starts now through midnight on Monday the 28th. It's hard to concentrate on a sale when my mouth is watering for bacon.

The patterns include: Hailee Bag, Oak Park Bag, Ladyfingers and Sugar Baby, Vintage Spools and Barefoot in the Park. Please note that this sale does not include Sparkle Plenty. Also please note that the sale code is for PDFs only.

When you make your purchase please put the sale code ABBY50 in the note from buyer section. Mom will reimburse your Paypal account after she receives notification of payment.

I remain ever hopeful that bacon and biscuits are in my future.

Love, Abby

Blogger BOM Quilt Along

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome. I hope everyone is having fun blog/block hopping. If you are just joining the BOM please visit Jackie for further information or click on the Mariner's Compass on my side bar.

Select 4 different fabrics

Cut from the following:

*Green (2) 3" squares

*Stripe (1) 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangle

*Grey

(1) 2 1/2" x 4 1/2" rectangle

(2) 2 1/2" squares

(4) 3" squares

*Purple

(2) 2 1/2" squares

(2) 3" squares

With right sides together (RST) pair up the grey 3" squares with the green and purple 3" squares. Draw a diagonal line on each pair. Sew 1/4" away from each side of line. Lay ruler on line and cut on line. Open half square triangles (HST) and press seams in one direction.

Lay square on top of HST and trim to measure 2 1/2". You may also click HERE for my HST tutorial.

*Helpful Hint--you may cut your squares for your HST a little larger if you'd like (instead of 3" cut your squares 3 1/2") then square them to the correct size.

I'm a visual person so I like to provide lots of photos.

Sew together in vertical rows. The next photos will show pressing direction. I find some seams lay better pressed in one direction and some pressed open.

Press seams in whatever direction works best for you. You want them to nestle together to reduce bulk. Then pin rows at seams and sew rows together.

Viola`!

Thank you for stopping by. Don't forget to add your blocks to the BOM Flickr Pool or go visit for inspiration.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

I am thankful for...

2011-11-22T06:37:00.001-05:00

For some reason blogger would not cooperate and post my blog post from yesterday.

I am thankful for Indians. Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Please come back on the 25th for the next Blogger BOM. It's my turn. Hopefully blogger will cooperate.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Handmade with Love

2011-11-21T17:29:00.000-05:00

Kathy Mack at Pink Chalk Studio is hosting Handmade with Love--A Holiday Tutorial Contest. This should certainly help jump start your holiday gift making. Lots of terrific ideas. There are 3 categories: Gifts for Friends, Gifts for Little Ones, and Holiday Decorating.

I asked Kathy about including tutorials for our furry friends and she said YES. So I submitted Abby's Pooch Pouch Tutorial. I think our furry friends are under-represented in holiday gift giving.

Please stop back by on the 25th for the next installation of Jackie's Blogger BOM. It's my turn this month.

(Allison 7 and James 5--year 1993)

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I am thankful for the Indians. I made the outfits.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Tasty Things

2011-11-16T07:03:00.001-05:00

They go together like peas and carrots. This is Daisy Mae by Denyse Schmidt for JoAnn Fabrics.

1960-1970 Farm Girl--avocado and burnt orange love. That's what it looks like to me. Denyse has other color stories but this one spoke my name. If I sewed clothes I'd make a maxi dress in the big flower print.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

For the Baker

2011-11-15T07:39:00.000-05:00

I love making simple homemade food gifts for the holidays. Lavender sugar would be amazing in tea, sprinkled on scones, or how about the burnt sugar on creme brulee. YUM! I used 1 TBSP of culinary lavender and 2 TBSP granulated sugar and whirled them in my spice grinder then mixed it with 2 cups of granulated sugar. (You may leave the lavender buds whole.) Store in an airtight container for 2 weeks. Then I put the sugar through a sieve to remove some of the lavender. Aren't they cute in the quilted jars with their polka dot hats?

Last year I made Mexican Vanilla using Vodka. This year I steeped Madagascar Vanilla Beans in Bourbon. The Mexican Vanilla is milder where the Madagascar in the Bourbon is more pungent. Both amazing. For the recipe please go to my recipe tab. I buy my vanilla beans and bottles from Beanilla.

I want to use the Madagascar Vanilla in Creme Brulee with Lavender Burnt Sugar. Christmas dessert perhaps? For recipes using Lavender Sugar please click HERE.

It takes several months to really get a wonderful, full-bodied vanilla aroma and flavor. Definitely worth the wait.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Abby

2011-11-14T09:49:00.001-05:00

I hate allergies. Mom took me to the vet the end of October and I ended up with a steroid shot and antibiotics. I love the ladies at the vet office and they love me back.

Vets don't like to give steroid shots too often as they weaken the bones. A side effect is increased thirst and hunger. Can you believe I was so hungry I started licking the floor, trash can, freezer door (no my tongue isn't that long; Mom has a freezer on the bottom), and started begging for food? I even considered counter surfing again. Mom thought I was looking thinner instead of heavier so we went to the vet on Friday to weigh in.

Since Mom had my Christmas gifts made early I asked to take them for my friends at the vet/kennel. Mom made a nice bouquet. At weigh in I lost 5 pounds in 16 days. That's a lot. After we got home the vet called and wanted me to come back in for tests. Mom left me for 6 hours on Friday having blood work, x-rays, and general poking and prodding. I even ended up snarling at my friends cause I was so done with it all! And they didn't find a single thing wrong with me. I heard whispers of tumors, parasites, and other nasty things.

I'm not 100% sure I've forgiven Mom yet. It's going to take a lot of extra dog biscuits. My friends loved their new paw print key leashes.

Love, Abby

From mom--Abby has never acted sick in any way. She's still her goofy, silly self--eating, drinking, playful, happy, loving. All is well. I'll keep my eye on her.

Introducing...

2011-11-10T07:40:00.000-05:00

Sparkle Plenty! I love how my very talented daughter formatted the pattern cover.

Carrie and Carol were amazing Supremes. Please go have a look at their version of Sparkle Plenty. What a difference fabric choice makes! If their blog post isn't up when you're reading this I do hope you'll take a moment to stop back by.

Sparkle Plenty was the name of a laundry mat/dry cleaner in the small town where I grew up. I always loved the name. High contrast is what really makes this quilt sparkle and the star pattern emerge.

Details:

*48" x 48" finished
*quilted by Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works
*all polka dots from various fabric lines
*scrap happy and charm pack friendly
*perfect for a wall hanging, table topper, small lap or toddler-size quilt.
*now available HERE in pdf
*diagrams for cutting and construction included
*hard copy available upon request

I just had to make a Christmas one.

* * * * *

Huge thank yous to my amazing daughter, Allison, Jackie for her creative eye and artistic way with quilting, and Carol and Carrie for the time, awesome talent, and patience. Job well done ladies.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Dots and Checks

2011-11-09T13:46:00.002-05:00

It's entirely possible I misunderstood the sign at JoAnn's -- was it By the Bolt or Buy the Bolt? Big sale on flannel and polka dots!

Aren't these the prettiest things you have ever seen? A long time and very sweet friend sent me these handmade, hand quilted, place mats and napkins using vintage fabrics. Is your heart going pitter patter? Her son and my daughter went to kindergarten together in Japan. Those children are now 25 years old.

Tea for two.

These yummy cookies would be perfect with tea. Recipe can be found HERE.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Polka Dot Winners

2011-11-08T07:05:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to #56 -- Jane as the US winner.

And the International winner is #22 -- Maria. Thank you to Mr. Creations for randomly selecting numbers. Thank you very much for playing along and sharing your favorite holiday song. Many of you asked what my favorite song is: I'll Be Home For Christmas sung by Andy Williams and The Williams Brothers.

For those of you who asked about the soft polka dot tree pattern I discovered it came from Little Bird Handmade but is no longer on her site and her blog appears to be defunct. However, if you click HERE you will find other cute little tree patterns.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Happy Holiday Polka Dots

2011-11-03T13:10:00.000-04:00

The Giveaway is now closed.

For the last 2 years Loft Creations has offered a Christmas Polka Dot Giveaway. Do you think this should be an annual event? Did I hear YES? OK. But before you get too excited the above photo is not the giveaway. I made these cute little trees a few years ago from a free tutorial/pattern that I can not remember where from so I am not able to give credit. I'm hoping this happy holiday post will help get me into the Christmas holiday spirit!

To ease the cost of postage once again I will offer two polka dot prizes. One for US readers -- prize offering above.

And a lighter weight but equally nice polka dot prize for my International readers.

Polka Dot Rules:

*leave a comment on this post only and be sure there is a way to contact you

*in your comment please tell me if you are a US or International reader (it'll make life easier)

*in your comment also please tell me your favorite Holiday Song

*winners will be selected on Tuesday, November 8

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Props

2011-11-02T13:19:00.001-04:00

A perfect day for cover photos. I get excited when I mix the right props with the right quilt.

I'll be using these tasty props with onions and ham hocks. Did you ever think of a green bean as pretty?

Now to send the photos to my very talented daughter. She gives me thumbs up or tells me what I need to change to make it work.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Pumpkin Doughnut Muffins

2011-10-31T07:29:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween!

Pretty mixing bowls just might make things tastier

A pom pom fringe tea towel brings lots of happiness. Pumpkin is chock full of beta carotene so certainly these are healthy muffins.

Using an ice cream scoop for your muffin portions gives you a perfect, even size.

Cooling in my new and very favorite bake ware USA Pans.

Once the muffins are cooled brush liberally with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Delicious!

Recipe can be found HERE.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Lazy Friday

2011-10-28T12:50:00.002-04:00

Another finish. I love this fabric for the back. Very appropriate. Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works did the quilting. Perfect. A new pattern for the new year.

I finished the binding on this one last night. Gosh how I love the freshness of the blues and greens. Do you recognize the Denyse Schmidt fabric?

Jackie did leaves and tendrils on this one. Plaid and check love. Another new pattern for the new year.

Last month I shared THIS tutorial for making a key leash. Sana Saroti let me know that she slips the hardware onto the leash before sewing the ends together to reduce the bulk in the final step. I tried it yesterday. Perfect. Sana Saroti has a lovely blog and I appreciate her helpful tip.

I have been asked about the solids I am using for the Blogger BOM. On the Kona Cotton Solids color chart the grey is 1080 Coal and the black is 359 Pepper.

In this block:

darker grey -- 1071 Charcoal
lighter grey -- 1080 Coal
gold -- 1162 Honey
the red is of uncertain origin but is quite similar to 1091 Crimson

Allergy season should be ending since we have already had our first frost. Off to the vet yesterday to get this girl some relief. I heart that sweet face. Abby and I are just hanging out today.

Hoping you enjoy a creative weekend.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Blogger BOM

2011-10-26T13:06:00.001-04:00

Are you playing? Have you made your block yet? Vicki is this month's block designer. It's like putting together a star puzzle. Love it! Beautiful block Vicki. For more information on the Blogger BOM please click on the Mariner's Compass on my side bar.

I had a helper.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

From the Garden

2011-10-25T16:31:00.000-04:00

With the weather turning cooler I started harvesting the rest of my tomatoes and tomatillos from the garden. I shared in a previous post that the flower on the tomatillo plant turns upside down like a little bell then forms a paper lantern from the blossom. The fruit then grows inside. You remove the husk and the tomatillo fruit is very sticky. Wash well.

Salsa is yummy with chips, burritos, and on fish tacos. I'm making fish tacos for dinner. These are the ingredients I use to make my salsa. The green leaf in the upper left corner is cilantro. I don't measure but cilantro is strong so too much is overwhelming. I use about 2 tablespoons chopped.

Depending on how much salsa you want to make also depends on how much ingredients. I used about 6 tomatillo and the juice of half of a lime.

Two yellow tomatoes chopped as well as 1/4 of a red onion and 1 jalapeno -- seeds and ribs removed. I don't like using a fire extinguisher when I eat so I keep my salsa more on the mild side. You can add salt and pepper to taste if you wish. Mix the ingredients together and let it sit in the refrigerator at least an hour before serving. Adjust seasoning, more lime juice perhaps?

Want a bite? I like my salsa with blue tortilla chips.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Business Casual

2011-10-22T19:00:00.000-04:00

The living room is painted and the furniture is in place. Some finishing touches then I'll give you a little tour. I couldn't help but notice how amazing my son's quilt looks with my new couch. Grey corduroy goodness.

Isn't it handsome on my new chair as well? Love the quilting?? Me too. The very talented Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works always selects the perfect quilting design for the quilt. This pattern reminds me of Art Deco.

The quilt is called Business Casual. The striped fabric came from my son's shirts that he no longer wears. He used to have to dress business casual for work each day. He didn't like the required dress code nor did he like the work. I do think he'll like the quilt. It's big so when I get the binding done I'll have a show and tell.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

A Perfect Match

2011-10-20T13:38:00.000-04:00

It's finally here! This is my new chair and she's a biggie. The colors don't show up correctly but the fabric is a yellowy green. The ottoman arrived in grey. Obviously they'll be reordering. How perfect is the quilt with my new chair?

Paint chips are currently spread out all over the new couch. Maybe Mr. Creations will paint this weekend? I don't think there is danger of him cutting any cables indoors. He can paint and I can shop for lamps and curtains and pillows, oh my!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Impatiently Waiting...

2011-10-19T13:11:00.002-04:00

I played with mini charm packs of Sherbet Pips a couple of months back. Such fun fabric. I dislike making backs and basting but it's a necessary evil. I think I will enjoy quilting this though.

Crabby Baby is now basted and ready for quilting. You can get a lot done when your cable is cut and you are impatiently waiting for the nice repairman to arrive. I have a polka dot project on my design wall I need to finish sewing first before all of the little pieces fall to the floor. That would be tragic.

Miss Abby was discovered having a snooze under the dining room table. Our living room furniture was picked up last week by a Furniture Bank. They re-home gently used furniture for those in need. The next day I had the carpets cleaned. I have been impatiently waiting the arrival of my new furniture..tomorrow!

Then there will be painting, a new quilt, pillows, curtains and what to hang on the walls...

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Winner

2011-10-18T12:27:00.000-04:00

Sunday morning Mr. Creations accidentally cut our cable while doing handyman work. I can live without internet (briefly), land line phone (because we also have a cell phone) but NO FOOTBALL! Grumble. Things got ugly. :o)

Two years ago today Abby adopted us. It was a very special day. Lucky us. You first met her in THIS post.

Abby is fun, funny, silly, sweet, loving and I heart her very much. She puts up with my frequent requests for her to model. We have an unwritten contract -- she honors my modeling requests even if she doesn't agree and I pay her in biscuits.

Abby receives fan mail and she tries to answer it all. For anyone interested Abby has her own tab at the top of my blog.

And now Abby would like to announce the winner of the pumpkins, pattern, and fabric -- congratulations to #28 -- Fabric Fanatic.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Kaffe, Kona, Mettler & Tut

2011-10-14T15:02:00.000-04:00

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

Sounds like a law firm for quilters!

When I shared this pumpkin project in 2009 (gosh has it really been 2 years?) Mr. Creations thought they looked more like lanterns than pumpkins. Some of you agreed. I like 'em.

Now finished is Pumpkin Lanterns. Fabrics mostly Kona and Kaffe. Threads used for machine quilting are a variegated pumpkin by Mettler and a variegated brown King Tut. Pattern is Pumpkin Walk -- Sunflower Hill Designs by Julie Popa. I altered the table runner to make a wall hanging.

When selecting pumpkins it's all about the stems!

I promised my niece a USMC Bag since her husband is a retired Marine. Another finish and now with it's new owner just in time for the Marine Corps Birthday on November 10. Mom has one, Anna has one, and one day I'll get mine made. A proud family of Marines and one Army soldier.

* * * * *

I would like to say I have received some very nice comments from new visitors. Thank you. I do my best to respond to each comment, however if you are "no reply" I am unable to do so. Perhaps you prefer it that way. If you have not heard from me, this is why.

* * * * *

If you are still with me this far that means you are actually reading this blog post. To reward you I am going to give away the pumpkin pattern I mentioned above along with 4 completed pumpkin blocks and the parts for a fifth one. Leave me a comment on this post only telling me your favorite pie. I heart pie. Be sure there is a way to contact you if you are the winner. I will ship internationally. The winner will be announced on Tuesday the 18th. That is a very special day at my house. More later. Photo of the prize below.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Apples -- Part 2

2011-10-13T09:35:00.003-04:00

recipe from: Granny's Apple Recipes -- Parrish Pioneer Ranch -- Oak Glen, California

I like to bake and cook. If you are a regular reader you have already figured that out. Yesterday was a perfect baking day -- wet, grey, cool. This "new to me" recipe is delicious and easy.

Sour Cream Apple Squares

2 cups flour

2 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 cup chopped nuts (I omitted)

1 to 2 tsp cinnamon (I used 2)

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup dairy sour cream

1 tsp vanilla

1 egg

2 cups peeled, finely chopped apples

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar and butter. I used a pastry blender. This will be a very crumbly mixture. Stir in nuts.

Press 2 3/4 cups crumb mixture into ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan.

To remaining mixture, add cinnamon, soda, salt, sour cream, vanilla and egg, blending well. Stir in apples. Spoon over base, spreading evenly. Bake at 350* for 25 to 35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cut into squares and serve with whipped cream.

Enjoy!

Now back to sewing. I have binding to finish.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Two Hours at the Mall

2011-10-11T13:07:00.004-04:00

It is such a beautiful day that I decided to treat myself to a trip to the antique mall after doing my necessary errands. The very first thing I found was a big plastic bag that got my heart racing. When I got home I found this inside. Green polka dots and a favorite block: grandmother's fan.

These little beauties were tucked inside too. Blue polka dots! Does it get any better? Well yes. Want to know what else was in the bag?

Vintage fabric from the 30s and 40s.

Aren't they worth a squeal? I guarded my basket while I strolled the rest of the aisles.

Then these feed sacks were just sitting on a shelf waiting for me. There were several pieces but the ones I left were badly stained all over.

I nearly started talking to myself when I found this one. Gosh I wish someone was with me to share my delight.

Although not a feed sack this is an oldie and I LOVE the print. Two whole yards!

I simple could not leave this kitchen print behind. It has a sheen to it like chintz but I heart it. No customers got hurt as I raced to the check-out stand. It was a great two hours.

Now to soak and wash so they are ready and waiting for me. Off to sew on a UFO. It's a Fall project and I really want to hang it this Fall.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Apples

2011-10-10T06:47:00.000-04:00

While I work on some finishes to show later I thought I'd share a very favorite recipe given to me by my friend, Rumi. The apples pictured are called Suncrisp -- slightly tart.

The apples in the bowl are McIntosh. This is a crock pot recipe but it can be adapted for stove top.

Autumn Time Applesauce

3 pounds apples -- your choice, I like to mix them. Peel, core and quarter

1/2 cup sugar

1 cinnamon stick (sometimes I use 2)

2 TBSP lemon juice

2 TBSP unsalted butter

1. Place apples, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick in small crock pot. Cover and cook on high until apples are very tender; about 3 - 4 hours. Keep checking because some apples are done sooner than others.

2. Remove cinnamon stick. Mash any lumps with potato masher. Pour into storage container. Add butter and stir. Let cool and store in refrigerator.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

October in Ohio

2011-10-08T13:37:00.000-04:00

I love Indian Summer. Ohio is in the midst of it so Mr. Creations and I decided to head to a couple of farms and enjoy the day. First stop was Lynd Fruit Farm for apple picking. They have a farm stand as well. Aren't these unusual pumpkins? They're appropriately called Peanut Pumpkins. After buying apple butter, apple syrup, and pure apple cider vinegar...

we headed up the highway to Pigeon Roost Farm. It was a first for us and Candace is the one who told me about it! She lives in Washington and I live 15 minutes from Pigeon Roost Farm and never even knew it existed.

Don't forget your wagon to haul your pumpkins!

These are appropriately called Warty Pumpkins.

A little public service announcement that was new to me.

Can you believe they had a giant spool for display purposes? A bit big for my mantle.

This pretty lady was sipping the water from the melted ice in the wagon.

She was keeping her eye on me! Thinking of you, Kaaren.

Miss Abby was very happy to see us. She was looking for her dad. I'm not entirely sure she was delighted with her pumpkins but she cooperated for my photo shoot. She'll do anything for a biscuit.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Bobbin Tree Forest

2011-10-06T18:08:00.003-04:00

Once upon a time there was a Mommy, a Daddy, and a Wee Baby Bobbin.

Wee Baby Bobbin had lots of friends. They like to play tree soldiers and line up in formation.

They were never left to play alone because they always had to be cautions of the Hairy Beast that freely roamed the forest. Mr. and Mrs. Bobbin always stood watch with other Bobbin parents.

There is safety in number.

~Piecefully, Stephanie and The Hairy Beast

PS -- these are all antique tree cone shaped bobbins.

Coming Soon...

2011-10-05T15:44:00.001-04:00

Having a little photo shoot. Mr. Creations rigged up a clothesline for me.

Since I used up lots of my polka dots for the quilt above I really needed to restock my stash. Is there anything prettier than a pile of polka dots?

Pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, allspice -- sew yummy!

*The fabric above is called Indian Summer for Riley Blake.

Miss Abby asked to give key leashes to her lady friends at the vet and kennel. She'll be their guest again in December so I'd better get to work. It was a good day at Fabric Shack.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Tailor Made

2011-10-04T14:22:00.003-04:00

Big quilts are a pain to work on but oh how I love this quilt. I spent the day attaching borders, making the backing, ironing, and removing lint, lots of lint! A labor of love for Son Creations.

I found the perfect flannel backing. It's called Tailor Made Flannel by Timeless Treasures. It's packed and ready to mail for quilting. I think I deserve to go HERE tomorrow with my dear friend, Nonnie.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Labels

2011-10-02T10:26:00.000-04:00

I admit I do not like making labels. However, I do think it's important, especially for future generations to know about a quilt and quilt maker as well as have it dated.

I have used various methods of making labels to include running fabric through my printer. Oh what a mess I have made. Karen at The Selvage Quilter put out the 911 a while back asking her readers to give me label making tips. So here is a tutorial of how I made a label using those various tips.

* * * * *

I went to my local Fed Ex Office for 8 1/2" x 11" Avery adhesive labels. Since that office is my home away from home they kindly gave me a couple of sheets at no charge to try. Thank you, Greg!

You will need:
one sheet of the adhesive label
quality white fabric (I used Kona)
rotary cutter, mat and ruler
wide scotch tape
computer printer

Press the fabric well. Peel the paper from the label and adhere to the wrong side of your label fabric.

Trim around all 4 edges even with the 8 1/2" x 11" label.

Take a strip of wide scotch tape almost as long as your 8 1/2" wide paper. On the fabric side lay tape at the edge of the fabric. Press neatly towards the label side. You don't want creases or you'll have issues with the feed on your printer. Also the tape helps eliminate strings getting caught in the printer roller. I've had experience with this.

Place fabric sheet in paper tray with the fabric side facing you. You want your label to print onto the fabric! Whatever program you use (I use Microsoft Word) type what you want to say on your label. It was suggested to me that I use a heavy paper setting. My printer has you move a lever to the right to achieve this. I used the "paper type" setting as plain paper. Please do not use the t-shirt transfer setting or else everything will be printed backwards. I have experience with this as well. Push print.

If you gently peel the label and tape from the back of your fabric you can reuse the Avery sticky sheet another time. Also you can "set up" multiple labels to print, making the best use of the whole fabric sheet.

Let your label "dry" for a minute or so then heat set with your iron. I don't recommend steam. Press the back first then the front.

Now here's how I've always finished my labels. Border with fabric if you'd like.

Place label right side together on another piece of fabric slightly larger than your label. Trim evenly around all 4 edges.

Pin and sew around all 4 edges using a 1/4" seam allowance. Backstitch to secure beginning and ending. Clip corners. Separate the fabric like shown above.

With scissors make a little snip then cut about an inch or so on either side of your snip.

Turn your label right side out through the snipped opening and press. After I pin my label to the back of my quilt I do a hand applique stitch around all 4 edges. No need to press or turn under any edges.

After hand sewing while watching football, Barefoot in the Park will be ready to ship tomorrow. Moda asked to borrow it to hang in their booth at Quilt Market.

FYI: I am not a printer expert. I woefully lack knowledge but I have done a printer label many long years ago. It it my understanding that the ink will not wash out if using an ink jet printer. For more information and tips you might want to visit HERE or do a little Googling.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

P.S. And now for the rest of the story...

I decided to take an oopsie test label and soak it in cold sudsy water for 5 minutes. The label used to be green and brown with black writing as you can see in the previous photos. Now it's all pea soup. Odd don't you think? I wanted to give a complete and honest report. Perhaps part of my tutorial is helpful. :o)

Fall is in the Air

2011-09-30T18:04:00.001-04:00

Cool days and crisp eves are perfect for sewing. The Robert Kaufman ribbon has finally been removed and the solid strips of color are now unfurled on my cutting mat.

Sleeping Beauty snores softly to the hum of my sewing machine. Wishing you a wonderful weekend.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

The Unexpected

2011-09-26T12:40:00.002-04:00

Perhaps you get to know a blogger by her fabric choices. Sometimes it's fun to share something unexpected. Shari sent me these gorgeous aboriginal fabrics a while back that I've been saving for just the right project.

This is my version of Sherri's block for the Blogger BOM. I'm using mostly solids with small bits here and there of the aboriginal fabric because I only have bits of it and I don't want to run short. I also wanted to make a quilt with a masculine feel. I like it.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Lil' Twister

2011-09-25T09:19:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just have to sew something fun, just because.

I've been wanting to play with the Lil' Twister template so I found some Japanese fabrics in my stash. I think they came from Superbuzzy.

I have a thing for polka dots, in case you didn't know. Often I go out back in my pajamas to take photos. I'm way past wondering what the neighbors think.

Sherri is kicking off the Blogger's Block of the Month today. For more info click on the button on my side bar. Be sure to stop by and see the terrific block Sherri made.

Are you playing? Have you selected your fabric yet?

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Parlor Pets

2011-09-23T07:49:00.000-04:00

Connecting Threads has an adorable new line of fabric out called Parlor Pets. After receiving a bundle in advance I gathered some solids and discovered the perfect polka dot in my stash.

Someone might be getting a new quilt. How could I ever say no to that face? I'm working on a practice block before cutting into the real thing. Do you do that too?

Perhaps you might want to have a peek HERE.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Oxi Clean FYI

2011-09-22T07:38:00.002-04:00

These old feed sacks needed a cleaning. I found them at my favorite antique mall for $4 each. Score! Glenna Hailey's book Sugar Sack Quilts is the "go to" book in my personal library for working with vintage fabric. I am glad she does not suggest using a wash board! In case you are interested in reading about the Columbus Washboard Company you can click HERE. There is even a washboard music festival each June and it is one of my favorite festivals.

Glenna suggests soaking your fabrics in a pail of Oxi Clean and water for 24 hours. I was amazed at how murky the water was after soaking. After soaking I threw the feed sacks in the washer on cold water, delicate cycle, with a very small amount of laundry soap.

Clean, pretty, renewed. No fading. A few very tough stains did remain but I can work around them.

Before soaking these precious feed sacks I experimented on vintage damask table cloths and napkins first. The cream and blue were given to me nearly 30 years ago by my mom. They were gifts given to her when she got married. Mom never used them but I did and they did get stained. The pink napkins I found at the antique mall.

Now I need to spend some time cleaning my sewing studio before the spiders finish decorating for Halloween!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Sleep over in Chicago

2011-09-21T08:29:00.001-04:00

I just returned from the annual WWII Forgotten Battalion Reunion of which my father, Ray, is a member. Only 7 fine men were in attendance this year along with various family members. It's like an extended family. Mostly familiar faces and a few new ones.

The reunion was held in Bismarck, North Dakota. After a wonderful time, some unfortunate travel events due to weather and an unplanned overnight at O'Hare Airport in Chicago, I made it home a day later than planned. Mother Nature always wins. I had to do some survival souvenir shopping--a Chicago sweatshirt so I didn't freeze to death in the airport.

Before I left I managed to finish the USMC modified version of my Oak Park Bag. I proudly carried my US Army Bag and Mom carried her new bag. The button is a brass eagle, globe, and anchor that is an official uniform button. Mom provided the button for her bag.

While the guys talked old times some of the ladies went to the street fair. It was so cold and windy I had to do some survival souvenir shopping there too--an alpaca scarf/hood/hand warmer thingy with dog paw prints on it. Never believe the 5-day weather forecast. One day we went hunting for a quilt shop. Score!

They were having a going out of business sale. Lucky us but after seeing the inside and outside of this shop it'll be a real loss for Bismarck.

This little beauty greeted us as we entered the door along with the friendliest staff ever. The aroma of fresh baked apple cinnamon muffins wafted throughout the house.

We were offered muffins and coffee so we meandered through this room

and then into the kitchen. I want to live here.

Don't you love their check out stand? After shopping one of the staff offered to take our photo on their gorgeous front porch. Want to see what I bought?

Last year Carol stitched and sent me a snowman block each month. I've been looking for the perfect fabric. I guess I needed to go to North Dakota to find it. You betcha!

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Blogger's BOM

2011-09-20T08:47:00.000-04:00

Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works is hosting a Blogger's Block of the Month beginning this month. Various bloggers will share a tutorial each month on constructing their 8 1/2" original design. The fabrics are modern and fun but you can certainly use fabrics of your own choosing. Please visit Jackie for the rest of the details.

Want to know who the designers are?

September - Sherri McConnell - A Quilting Life

October - Vicki Welsh - Field Trips in Fiber

November - Stephanie Dunphy - Loft Creations

December - Pat Sloan - The Voice Of Quilting

January - John Adams - Quilt Dad

February - Amy Smart - Diary of a Quilter

March - Allison Harris - Cluck, Cluck, Sew

April - Amy Lobsiger - Mrs. Schmenkmen Quilts

May - Cathy Underhill - Cabbage Quilts

June - Pam Vieira-McGinnis - Pam Kitty Morning

July - Victoria Findlay Wolfe - Bumble Beans Inc.

August - Amy Ellis - Amy's Creative Side

September - Sarah Fielke - The Last Piece

October - Jackie Kunkel - Canton Village Quilt Works

Thank you so much Jackie for including me. Sounds like fun, right? Leave me a comment and tell me if you plan to play along.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Car Photography

2011-09-11T16:21:00.000-04:00

Loft Creations is growing so fast I decided to move my headquarters to Indiana. Just kidding. Friday and Saturday I had the opportunity to do some car photography. This shot was taken from my window. (I was not driving.) Having spent a total of 25-ish hours in our car in 2 days, 1,400+ miles, 5 states (10 if you count them both ways) = dead tired. We moved Daughter Creations to Minnesota on Friday for her Fall internship.

The weather was perfect, except for rain through Chicago. On the way home, while making a necessary stop I discovered Farmer Cheese and Sausage. Perhaps he is the Wisconsin state mascot? Let me just say having never driven through Wisconsin until Friday that it is truly a gorgeous, picturesque state. I-90 is all rolling farmland, silos and barns with cupolas. American Heartland at it's finest. I think most of the cities/towns in Wisconsin start with "W" and have lots of "A"s and "U"s and every now and then they throw in a consonant to make the name totally unpronounceable.

The Mayo Clinic takes up major real estate in Rochester, Minnesota. What a clean, friendly, well-groomed little city. I could almost live there, that is until Winter arrives. We were cruising along home very smoothly through Nowhere, Indiana, about 3 hours from home until we came to a dead halt due to an accident. For an hour we inched along, single file. What to do? Play with the setting on my camera! This is my dash cam shot.

The moon was nearly full and perfect against the blue sky and wispy clouds.

No words necessary. Now to wash and repack for my trip to Bismarck, North Dakota on Wednesday.

I've never been there either.

~Piecefully, Stephanie

Key Leash Tutorial

2011-09-07T19:00:00.000-04:00

My sister recently asked me to make her another key leash (or you might call it a lanyard). She wears hers around her neck with her work badge attached and after 2 years of constant use and washing it is starting to show signs of wear. So while I was at it I thought I would share a tutorial. These are great Christmas gifts. Although I'm in denial, Christmas is coming.

You can find different hardware available in your local crafts shops as well as on line. Visit my resources page for links. The one on the far left is purse hardware. The one in the middle is packaged with the split ring and clasp. The one on the far right came separate. I ordered the clasps and split rings to use together. The split ring is not necessary.

Fabric -- I use 100% quilting cotton weight. I am sure you can use other fabrics but heavier weight fabric will be more difficult to sew through when you loop through the hardware. Lighter weight fabric will probably wear thin quicker. This is where you decide how long or short you want your leash. You can make it to loop around your wrist or one to hang around your neck. A tape measure is handy here. Measure the length you want and add about 1 1/4". Cut 2 1/2" by length of choice.

Interfacing -- I use a very light weight fusible by Pellon. Again, if it's too thick you will have more difficulty sewing through the layers. Cut your fusible interfacing 2 1/4" by one inch shorter than your fabric length. This reduces unnecessary bulk.

Hardware -- your choice

Fuse interfacing according to manufacturers instructions onto wrong side of fabric strip. NOTE: My interfacing is a bit narrower than the directions above because it's what I had left.

1. Fold your strip wrong sides together along long sides. Press to crease then open.

2. Fold each long side towards center crease and press to crease again.

3. Fold in half and press to crease. I use steam.

Unfold and sew short ends right sides together. Press seam open. Refold and press.

Top stitch along both edges.

Find seam and flatten end.

Loop through ring, fold and pinch. Seam will be hidden in the fold.

Stitch close to edge of fold. My sewing machine shop lady said since many machine don't like to back stitch through thickness to sew to the edge with needle down then lift presser foot and rotate leash. Then stitch to the edge.

Congratulations! You have a new key leash.

This is my key leash. It's long and tickles my leg when I drive wearing shorts but it is very easy to find in my purse. I dislike all of the loyalty key tags from businesses. Maybe I should have a key leash just for those. Don't you think Pet People should have a cuter tag?

Please go have a look at what Tina made. She did this while brewing tea!

***Please be sure to click HERE for a less bulk way to sew your hardware to you leash.

~Piecefully, Stephanie