ONCE YOU LEARN IT......

I'm not sure where this pic originated from but it's made its rounds on the internet and is perfect for showing how quilters think at times. 

Over the last several days I've heard a lot of people ask questions about quilting on the quilting sites, forums, and groups that at first may cause an experienced quilter to roll their eyes and wonder why the question was even asked as the answer is so simple. 

Then as others, or I answer the questions I realize that we all started out not knowing and were either taught in a class, helped by someone who quilted, or found teaching resources on the internet. Those resources plus hours of trial and error (sewing and frogging) got us where we are today. 

As a quilter, think back to when you started quilting, or when you first thought about learning to quilt. Your first reaction was most likely, "I would love to make a quilt, but I don't know how". Or, "I could never learn to quilt".  Mine was, "I can't do that". 
But I'm here today with honestly loosing count of all the quilts I've made or longarmed for customers in just a little over 4 years. 
 
As we learn more and more about quilting and make more and more quilts we often start taking some things for granted. We tend to think of some aspects of it as common sense, or just as a given and assume everyone knows that. But not everyone does. And if we don't do a step or technique very often we may forget how to do it and have to ask or find the answer ourselves.  

Quilter's tend to form a specialty to what they like to do best. Some like to piece, some to applique, some to do scrappy quilts, some to do masterpiece/award winning quilts, some to make quilts for charity, some for gifts, and some to make custom quilts to sell. 
We all continue to learn and perfect our craft. As we learn we also like to share. It just comes with being a quilter. In the desire to share don't forget to continue to share what you learned in the very beginning. When you hear or see someone ask any question about quilting be willing to take time out to answer. You once were that person.

I plan on taking some of the questions I've heard recently and offering the answers here over the next month or two. So, if you have any questions, please leave a comment and ask your question. I'll be happy to answer what I can, or find the answer for you. 

Til next time..... 

keep those needles stitching, 

the creativity flowing 

and the warmth of a quilt 

wrapped around you. 

The Countdown....

Sitting here this evening after a busy day in the studio, I realize that I may not be the only one counting all the things I have to get done before Christmas and the end of the year. I usually start my count down and my creations of gifts in August. This year I am running behind. But that is o.k. I'll catch up.

I have been blessed with quilting work to do for customers who have ordered special quilts made for loved ones. I am thrilled and honored to be chosen to make their wishes and dreams come true. 


The countdown....  
Are you at a loss of what to make for each person on your list? Have you suddenly realized that time is slipping by quickly? Never fear. There is still time. Depending on how much time you have to quilt there is time to make a quilt or two. Don't think you have enough time to make a bed quilt? Use an easy pattern that you have done before, or even a new pattern that is easy to do. Not that much time? There are lap quilts, wall hangings, table runners, and mug rugs to be made. 

The countdown is also on for you to make out your wish list. What do you want for Christmas?  Do others know what you want? We all have our 'out of reach' wish list, and then we have our realistic wish list. Go ahead and make your list. 
Put everything on it that you have ever dreamed of. Everything from a longarm machine, a new sewing machine, an embroidery machine, notions, fabric, fabric organizers, quilting classes, and even gift certificates to your favorite LQS!  
As much as we all have a lot in our stash and all the equipment that we have I know there is MORE.

On my wish list this year?  I'd love an embroidery machine, even a small one. I'd also like another domestic sewing machine. I could use a new ruler or two as two of mine have nicks in them. And then there are the usual small items you never seem to have enough of. - seam rippers for one. 

Oh, and I still want a new camera. lol  That's quilt related!  I need to be able to take photos of my quilts and the work I do on customer's quilts right? lol 

So, as time passes by make your lists, check them twice and set to create. Don't set yourself up to get stressed over it. Do what you can and what you enjoy doing, nothing more. 

Til next time,

Keep those needles stitching, 

those creative juices flowing

and enjoy what you do.