PHASES

Sitting here in the living room attempting all means I can to get rid of this major, almost migraine headache I am reminded of a few things. 1- this too shall pass. 2 - I have lots of quilting and longarming to get done. 3 - I also have quiet hand sewing to get done. 

And this brought me to thinking of the phases of quilting. There are many. And there are different ways to interpret 'phases'. 

One could be the phases we all go through in our quilting life. These include one extreme of wanting (or in some cases needing) to be quilting ALL the time and putting everything else in our lives on hold while we hide in our quilting space and quilt. 

The other phase of that is wanting to quilt, knowing there are quilt projects to work on, but you don't have time to quilt. You may be busy doing other things such as during the summer when there are so many other things pulling you away from quilting. You still spend any spare moment you have to at least look through magazines, books, videos on the computer. You are as active as you can be on quilting forums and facebook pages. But even this free time may not be as much as you would like. You do see an end to what is pulling you away and know that quilting will get back into your life. 

Yet another phase is when you have quilt projects waiting, the time to quilt is there as nothing in life is pulling you away from it, but your get up and go has gotten up and is GONE!  You deal with it in silence for a while. Friends or even family may even think that your quilting hobby has gone away as some of your other hobbies have gone and wonder what your next hobby will be. You go to your quilting space and look around. You sit at your machine. You pull out some fabric or a pattern. You may even attempt to cut fabric out and start stitching. The enthusiasm you once had doesn't come back. 

In the case of the third phase - wait it out. Personally I find those times are when I have forgotten to take my B-12 and vitamins on a regular basis. Once I start those up again I have the energy and desire to quilt. Others may find that joining a guild or other quilting group helps. Finding a friend who quilts, or going to quilt shows may help.  Head to a quilt shop for inspiration.   Some people have gone months or even years without quilting and then get back into it full force. So don't despair. 

Other 'phases' of the world of quilting may mean the progress of your quilt or quilts. Many quilters have several quilts going at one time, each at a different 'phase' or step. I have .....many. Some are for customers and even those are in various phases; some are my own. 
I decided this morning while suffering this headache that having more than one quilt going at a time at various phases is a good thing!  At the moment there is no way my head will tolerate the sounds of the longarm machine in operation. Not even sure how it will deal with the domestic machine going. Soooo I am blessed in having a binding to sew onto a large quilt that has to be done for a customer and this will give the the time to get it done.  

For those who wonder if or why we quilters never finish one before we start a new one... this is one reason.  A good reason!  Hey, works for me!   

So whatever phase you are in with your quilting process: whether it be the stages your quilts are in, or the desire to quilt as a whole, I wish you the best. 

If I can be of any help to encourage you along feel free to let me know. I love to help others who share this world of quilting. I never knew it would become so much a major part of my life when it started. 

Til next time....

Keep the needles stitching, 

the creativity flowing 

and the passion blooming!  

Phyllis

Oh, BTW - the picture above is the machine I started quilting with and the table is where it all began. The wall hanging peaking there is my first quilt. 

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.

FALL BEGINS

Fall is upon us

      The time of year is upon us once again when things change. It may start out as a slow change with the sun shining brightly, the temps still feel like summer, but the nights start to cool down. The AC is turned off and windows let the fresh cool air in. Gardening comes to an ending. Plants are trimmed, pulled up or brought inside. Leaves start to change their color and float to the ground. 

And we change the decorations in and around the house.We bring out the fall colors in wreaths, flower arrangements, wall hangings, table covers and quilts to wrap up in on the chilly nights. 

We also realize that time is running away fast on having enough time to make all those Christmas quilts we want to make.
At times we realize that we don't really have time to make full or larger quilts in time for everyone we want. And we search for other things to make that are still quilted or quilt related. 

The list of ideas of other quilt related items to make could be a long one. There are:

Wall Hangings, Table Runners, Mug Rugs, Coasters, Lap Quilts, Baby Quilts, Doll Quilts, Pot Holders, Aprons, Wallets, Passport Carriers, Tote Bags, Purses.

And of course you do still have time to make a quilt or two, or three. You may not have time to eat or sleep, but the quilts will be done. 

This is also the time of year when we tend to become too busy. Yes, many of us are busy all year 'round. Some are busy in the spring and summer with other things going on in their lives. Fall arrives and we change our focus, but are just as busy if not more so. 
We have holidays to plan for. Those with kids have school events and sporting events. Kids are busy with homework and can always use our help. 

I know I've talked about stress and how to limit stress in our lives but there are times we forget the simple things.  Breathing is one of those things. Yes, stop, take a deep breath. 

I'll have tips for getting through the next few months in upcoming posts. I will start by offering Quilter's Pantry longarming service to you to help you get those quilt tops made into quilts in time for Christmas. My time is also limited and I have a few projects going on, but that is what I do. And I still have openings. So if you have a quilt top you just won't have time to quilt contact me. 

If you need quilt kits made, or a few blocks premade with applique work or some embroidery designs on them..... let me know. I know people who can help you out with those needs too! When we all work together things get done easier.

Til next time.... 

keep those needles stitching, 

those ideas flowing 

and continue creating. 

Phyllis





 

LABOR DAY = END OF SUMMER

As the days and months go by we spend our year wishing for the next season to get here. Winter leaves us wishing for spring, Spring leaves us wishing for summer, Summer arrives and before we know it that too is on the way out and we are faced with fall and then another winter. We spend our lives wishing it away. 

As we spend this weekend celebrating the end of summer (even though our temps are high enough to be the middle of summer) we also realize we are approaching that time to start getting ready for Christmas. (see, we've totally missed thinking fall!)

Many people complain about the stores putting up Christmas decorations early (although they are NOT out yet). But, as quilters and other crafters or those of us who make all or most or even some of the gifts we give, it is time for us to get started on them. A few have already started! Including me. 

Before we look forward to planning the gifts we will make for others, let's look back over the summer. 

Many took the time off from quilting due to summer activities. Sports events, summer vacations, gardening, family time, and 'it's too hot to quilt' overtake our desire and love of quilting. We set priorities for other things we love to do and can only due during the summer. We know the quilting will be there when we get to it. ......

We also go through withdrawal. We still see quilt patterns in the strangest things, we love to stop at the quilt/fabric shops as we travel, we still look at quilts, attend quilt shows and dream! For a quilter we live and breath quilts. Getting a quitler talking about quilts is like asking a grandparent to talk about their grandchildren. And if a quilter also has grandchildren, look out. They can talk and show pictures for hours! Just ask me..... I've become one of 'them' :)

So, what have you done with your summer season? Have you worked in the garden enjoying the fruits, vegetables, and flowers you planted? 
Have you been able to go on a vacation and get some much overdue rest and relaxation? Have you been able to spend more time with your family and friends, getting out and doing more? Have you had time to quilt? 

My family has done a little bit of all of that this year except the garden. We didn't even plant tomatoes like before. we did however have a few plants that just grew from the seeds in the garden from last year. We spent time with family, we took a few days off (this weekend) to rest, relax and be with more family and friends. I also quilted all summer long. It's been a good summer. 

Life is good and we have been blessed. 

May you all have a great end of summer. Stay safe, stay cool and take time with family and friends. You'll have plenty of time to sit and quilt - next week! 

We will be working on more fabrics for sale, refreshing the quilts we have for sale, and starting our classes up again for those who want to learn how to quilt. 

Til next time - keep those needles stitching. 

Phyllis


 

QUILTS OF LIFE

I remember wondering when summer would come, and now it is nearly over. What did you accomplish this summer?


Here at Quilter's Pantry we quilted. Both for myself and for my customers. We also took a business trip and have a class reunion for my DH coming up soon. And a very special birthday party coming up in just a few days for our grandson - 1 year old already! 

I also learned - 

We can learn a lot from quilts and quilting. We learn new techniques, new tools, new fabrics.  We learn what they mean or could mean to others. 

We learn that quilts do not have to be perfect, especially when you are just a beginner. The seams don't have to match perfectly. The seams in the back don't have to be pressed all the same direction. 

A quilt is made up of many fragments of a wide variety of colors and fabrics. We pull pieces from this and that and stitch them into something wonderful. We can quilt alone, or we can quilt with other people. We can join groups that are close to where we live, as well as groups made up of people from around the world. 

Quilts are a lesson about life.

Our lives don't have to be perfect. Our connections don't always have to match. Our backgrounds don't have to all line up in one directions. In fact, that would make life less interesting. 

Our lives are a mixture of fragments we experience along the way. We blend many different life events to form what we become. We are also always changing, growing and trying new things. 

We make our lives full with those we surround ourselves with. We may be alone, or belong with small groups close to where we live or be connected to many around the world.

We wrap our lives in the warmth of love. A love of our family. A love of our friends. A love of things past that bring fond memories. A love and warmth of even the unknowing future of what each day holds for us. 

Today look upon the quilts in your life. Look upon the people in your life. Look upon the joy, the warmth and the never ending, always changing way a quilt and quilting and our life brings happiness to so many. 

And until next time.... wrap your arms around them all. 

Phyllis

BEST LAID PLANS

In all our lives as creative people we sometimes have an idea and even a plan, maybe even a pattern for what we want to create. We go out and buy (or pull from our supplies) the items we need to make the project. We even get started. 

In the life of this quilter (me) this is how it happened......

I found fabric I had been watching for over a year. It always called my name when I saw it. I knew I wanted it. But, money was tight and the price just didn't work for me. So I waited. I left it on the shelf at the store.....day after day, week after week, month after month. Maybe even a year. THEN.... it went on SALE!  Oh, how we love that word! 
SO..... I bought some. I have been wanting to make myself a new purse for over a year and decided that this fabric would be perfect. Since it was on sale I bought more than I really needed to make a purse, but figured I'm also make a new phone carrying case, and other accessories. 

 ALL GOOD SO FAR ...

When I finally got the spare time to work in the studio for 'me' I got out the fabrics I had bought. I cut out the pattern (it is Simply Pineapple) that was going to be my center of my purse. I was going to make my own 'pre-quilted' fabric to then use to make my purse. 

WELL....

One look at that center block and it was no longer a purse.  It is now the beginning of a lap quilt!  I decided that it was too pretty for just a purse. Pictured above is the first large block of the quilt. The actual center of which was going to be the block for the purse. 

ODD ....

I had enough fabric to make a lap quilt!  

BUT.....

A quilter can Always use more.... 

SO...

I went back to the store and bought a bit more.  For that, "Just in case" factor we all have. 

I now have the pieces all cut out, the center blocks made and the surrounding blocks made for 5 more large blocks.  Over the next week or so I will, in my spare time, put it all together and the longarm it. 

PLEASE NOTE.....

I have more fabric so even my 'lap quilt' may become a larger quilt before I'm done.

I will post pics later of  the progress of my 'purse'. And will also post it when it is finished.  

ONE LAST NOTE .....

I still need a new purse made. 

Til next time, 
Keep those needles stitching and your creative juices flowing. You never know what will come together for you. 

Phyllis