30’s and 40’s Vibes

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Remembering their Service…

Memorial Day Weekend—as many meanings and memories as there are readers. Memorial Day, or as many of us grew up calling it Decoration Day, was created immediately after the Civil War to honor the Union soldiers who gave their lives to preserve the Union. After World War I the federal government declared the day was for all who had sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

Memorial Day has become the “official” start of summer with pools opening, car races, trips to the lake, cook outs and Memorial Day sales on everything! And even though I shop the sales and serve hamburgers, I do spend time remembering the lives and services that allowed me to enjoy my lifestyle.

My paternal grandfather suffered from the effects of mustard gas in the French trenches during World War I. My father landed on Omaha beach during D-Day and was injured in the hedge rows by German shelling. My son was on some of the very first flights over Afghanistan post 9-11. I will always remember their service. But I will also honor those who persevered here—a great-grandmother that strapped my grandmother to her chest so that she could continue the work of her dead husband on their prairie homestead. Or the grandparents that survived the 1930’s on a rocky Ozark farm but make sure their children were feed and educated. My grandmother who did not hear from my father or the army for six weeks after D-Day but had received a package of his personal effects in the mail. I will honor my mother who washed dishes at night in a cafe to pay for her college tuition and my father who read grown up books to me after a day in the fields.

My parents honored our families by decorating their graves with flowers from our yard. Peonies buds were cut during May and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in newspaper for Decoration Day. Honeysuckle was gathered and put in chipped mason jars. We traveled only a few miles to the cemetery with the flowers and jugs of water and divided the flowers among the graves. I may not be able to honor them today by placing flowers on their graves but I am grateful and they will live forever in my memories.

The time between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July has become the “red, white and blue” season. The strong colors of our flag are used everywhere! We created a red, white and blue showcase in the halls of First United Methodist.

Obviously we like this color combo –these were pulled from our stash that we have preparing for the October Quilts Etc. Sale.

These placemats were made later.

The placemats are 12″ x 16″ and could be reversible. They are machine quilted and the binding features a faux flange. They are machine washable. $40 for 4

More quilts from our cupboards that could be in this theme of red, white and blue that are for sale. And of course, these would be a great addition to your home anytime in the year!

We just keep adding items to our cupboards–here are the latest additions.

Made from cozy flannel squares, the quilt is lap size, 45″ x 54″. It is machine quilted with a machine applied binding. The backing is also flannel—perfect for snuggling. $100

This soft flannel set for the new mother to be is gender neutral. The set included a bib, drool cloth and drool big. $20

Project bags–the orange and pink and green one have clear plastic on one side, the green print one has green mesh. Use them to keep a pair of scissors, embroidery floss, marking pin etc . $10 each

Ready for Halloween –Heather made two versions of a spooky table runner. One is 13″ x 23″ for $30 and the larger one is 14″ x 30″ for $40. Those little witches don’t look to scary!

Elaine contributed these two utilitarian bags from pre-quilted fabric.

Use these for shopping bags, pool bags, —they are sturdy, washable and $15 each.

Enjoy a hamburger–make that a cheeseburger, for me this week end. And remember that each of us are enjoying this life because of the many people who gave it their all —

Where Did I Put That?

I spent two days cleaning out my sewing room so my grandkids visiting from out of state would have a place to sleep. I gave myself enough time that I wouldn’t just stuff things in the closets and storage room which I have done in the past. This method of cleaning results in days of “hunt and search” to find that project I had almost finished before my guests arrived!

I always underestimate the time a project will take–and I gave myself a day to clean the room. Ha! It took hours to just get the cutting table cleared. My toxic trait is that I can’t throw fabric away–not even the smallest scrap. These odd pieces of fabric with potential needed to be sorted and trimmed.

There were scraps that needed to be cut into 2.5″ squares for future scrappy quilts, potholders and various other small projects.

This scrappy quilt top used a lot of my 2.5″ squares– I probably could make several more big quilts.

Strips of various widths and lengths needed to gathered for the “String Quilt” bin. Again–if I live long enough, I will make more with what I have now!

I had piles of different fabrics that go together–for what I am not sure but I had spent time matching various prints and colors. I bagged those in clear plastic tubs or bags and started making a list of “perhaps” projects.

I found kits–some started and some still in the unopened packages–Ouch, I am a bit embarrassed by this admission.

Last Sunday I spent a couple of hours auditioning fabrics to bind my “house” quilt. Nothing was quite right. I enlisted my friends’ help. They found possible candidates in their stash but I wasn’t sure. Then I opened a tub I had forgotten hidden in the second closet and there was the perfect stripe! Yes, I know, I need to be much more organized!

The room looks the best it has in months and months! The beds are set up for late arrivals. I look forward to having my family in my home—but I can’t wait to start sewing again in my clean room!

Conclusions–I must continue my “fabric diet”. It is so tempting to purchase new lines –but I really do have enough fabric to last me until I am 120! And I have decided I must live that long to complete my very long “to-do” list of projects…especially since I now know where I put “that” fabric!

Many of our members are on summer vacation, but we did complete a few projects.

This table runner made of half -square triangles in 30’s and 40’s reproduction fabric adds a cozy feel to a room. It would be perfect for a “farm” kitchen table. It is backed in a “white on white” print. 16″ x 40″. $40

Are you a Dr. Seuss fan? Do you re-watch the “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” each holiday season? If so you need a pre-printed apron celebrating a “Whoville” Christmas. $10 each

We have a second “Ed the Eagle”. Maybe this one is “Edith the Eagle”. $10

Treasure houses? Gift bags? Child’s purse? The easy to maneuver draw string keeps your items save inside. The trees and doors are machine appliquéd. $15

Just the right size to keep your phone, wallet and keys, this snap shut top will stay shut unless you are holding it open. This one of a kind purse is $25.

The same print in five different colors glow when used with a solid black. The pattern is called “Exploding Heart”. It is machine quilted and machine bound. 76″ x 80″. $175

This isn’t for sale at present–but I wanted to share with you the amazing work done by Janis. She is a master “appliquér”–if that is a word. Although this wall hanging is only 33″ x 42″, I could spend hours looking at all the clever details.

Not only is the appliqué incredible; the custom quilting adds so much to this piece. I do like the camel’s eyes! Her choice of fabrics for each piece is spot on!

I will be reminding you every week to mark your calendar for the sale in October 15-17. It will be a wonderful opportunity to see all these pieces up close and personal.

Yep, my sewing room/office looks great–but I still haven’t found my husband’s K-State blanket or the extra air mattress or the title to my car! Someday I will be a little more organized–nah, probably not.

The finishing touch!

The finishing touch to a quilt is the binding. Binding is the frame around the focal point–the combination of fabrics, colors and cuts pieced together to make the quilt top. To become a quilt, the pieced top needs four more elements–batting, the backing, the quilting and the binding. The batting gives the quilt its body and warmth. The backing covers up the batting which by itself isn’t very stable. Batting would not hold up with much handling or washing. Thus backing is a third piece of the quilt.

At this point in the construction, machine or hand quilting stitches the three layers together. The stitching can be functional or add another dimension of design with the quilting pattern. After the top, batting and backing are sandwiched together with the chosen quilting method, the quilt must be squared up, trimmed and bound….to encase all those raw edges of the pieced top, batting and backing. The important fifth piece of a quilt…the finishing touch, the binding!

And here the quilters have more decisions to make!

Will the binding be the same color as the border or the background fabric?

Will all the binding be from the same fabric or will it be a pieced binding?

Will the binding compliment the fabrics but not be a fabric from the pieced top?

…or the same fabric as in pieced top and back.

…will a “flange” or “piping” be added ?

Does the binding need to be cut on the bias or can it be straight of grain?

Any edge that is “curvy” or “round” calls for binding cut on the bias–at a 45 degree angle from the edge of the fabric.

And big question is “Will the binding be hand sewn or machine sewn?”

Both methods are acceptable in the quilt world—sort of depends what you are making. Some quilters believe anything that will be laundered many times should have a machine sewn binding. This pot holder had the binding sewn on with a serpentine stitch. Placemats and baby quilts are often machine bound.

But a hand quilted quilt will always have the binding sewn on by hand! Most of our quilts we offer for sale are hand bound.

Yesterday I looked around our room–it was very quiet…not many sewing machines running. This is what I saw–

Five of the ten quilters in attendance were busy binding projects!

I judge Fiber Arts in the county 4-H fair. Here are some of the things I have been advised to look for when judging:

…binding on front and back should be the same width

…binding should be filled with the top, bottom and batting–no flabby binding

…hand binding should not have stitching showing—and thread used should match either the backing or the binding.

…binding corners should be square, a mitered corner with the folds going in opposite direction

…when machine binding, the stitches on both sides should be on the binding not on the backing

Remember these are just suggestions–My most loved quilts do not have “Blue Ribbon” binding!

New projects added to our Quilt Sale Etc stash include–

A set of summer theme placemats —-

Sun ripened cherries are the best! These placemats remind me of my Grandma Ella’s cherry trees that produced buckets of sweet cherries. They measure 12″ x 18″. The backing is the same green as the flange. Machine quilted and bound. 6 for $60

Another tea towel…$9

And while we are thinking Fall….

Halloween calls for lots of home decor–this table runner is 11″ x 34″ and $30. Hand bound–a solid black is used on the back.

A very grown up Halloween print was used in these four placemats. The mats measure 12″ x 18″ Four for $35.

And soon after Halloween is Thanksgiving–

This table runner gives you two options. The pieced front is a bit more formal and the backing is a jumble of colorful fall squash, flowers and pumpkins (which, yes are technically squash!). The machine quilted table runner is 14″ x 39″ and is $40. It is a two for one!!

And next is Christmas-

Traditional colors and prints were used to create this woven appearing table runner. It measures 12″ x 44″ and is $40. The backing is the red fabric with the green trees.

Another “two for one” deal with this 13″ x 38″ table runner. Either side would add to the holiday spirit. $40

It would be easy to find a place to hang this small Christmas tree panel. It measures 18″ x 19″ and already has a hanging sleeve to hold a dowel rod . $30

Judy finished binding her very cozy flannel quilt in time for it to be shared this week.

Checks, plaids, stripe and solids in grey, black, beige and brown were used in this lap quilt. Perfect for this winter when we have completely forgotten these summer temperatures! It is 40″ x 54″ and $125. A great gift for your Dad, Husband, Son, Uncle….

Reproduction 30’s and 40’s fabrics were used to make the hourglass blocks in this baby quilt.

The backing is a soft white fleece. It measures 35″ x 48″. $50.

This quilt pattern is “Olive and Nell”….sort of a hybrid of nine patch and four patch blocks in true blues and white.

Can you see this on your bed? It is 62″ x 72″….just fits the top of a queen bed. Machine quilted in a swirl and hand bound. $200

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Quilt Etc. Sale , October 15-17, at First United Methodist Church, Wichita, KS. But of course, if any thing caught your fancy you can purchase it today! Just leave me a comment or send an email.

Summer Time

Officially it is summer–first we had the meteorological summer that begins on June 1 and Sunday we observed the start of the astronomical summer..June 21. In Kansas, summer begins any time in March, April and May with over 90 degree temperatures. But for the past few days we have had cooler than normal days with rain. I am writing this with my sweater on! In June in Kansas! I wish I could bottle it up–my family from the Pacific Northwest will be visiting in July. They are not used to temperatures in the high 90’s . The average July temperature in Seattle is 75 degrees; they see a trip out of the house when it is 100 degrees as life threatening!

When I taught, summer was divided into milestones. Anytime before June 1 was a bonus. June was the best..cooler mornings, my flowers looked good and I still had weeks until school started again. The last half of June brought two turning points–the pop-up gardens centers in local parking lots closed shop and tents for selling fireworks began appearing! After the 4th of July, it was downhill. My husband’s birthday is the 8th of July and he is the most difficult person I know for which to buy gifts. And he loves to open gifts–they don’t have to be expensive–he just likes lots. I usually stress a bit this time of the year–my track record isn’t great on birthday gifts! Then there were the “back-to-school” ads! The final stab was the official letter in the mailbox from the district office, welcoming me back to another “exciting” year of teaching. I really, really did love teaching. It was satisfying, allowed for creativity and paid my bills, but let’s just say, I really, really, really love being retired with summer all year around.

This summer I have several fun milestones–judging fiber arts at the 4-H fair, the great nieces ballgames (don’t even believe at their age they keep scores!), my family visiting, Church Class ice cream social at our house, and I found the perfect place to treat my husband to dinner for his birthday–the ball park!

During the summer, we quilters watch as the shelves and cupboards in the quilting room at Church begin to fill with finished projects for the October Sale. Here are some of the latest additions—

Quilts of all sizes

This block is called an Economy Block or A Square in a Square. The pink and orange fabrics were suggested by a teen girl- her favorite colors. It is machine quilted, and hand bound.

The backing is a small floral in the same color family. The quilt measures 54″ x 62″ and is $175.

This quilt pattern was a perfect match for this fabric line. The colors in the contemporary print are repeated in the center blocks. Note how the borders don’t completely surround the center. The backing is a completely different look but works well with the front’s very modern design. The quilt is 62″ x 76″, machine quilted and could be yours for $250.

The blue and green print is very calming, perfect for using when taking a short cat nap. The quilt is 45″ x 62″, machine quilted and hand bound. $75

Can’t go wrong with a two-color quilt. Blue and white is a classic.

The pattern is called “Starlight”. A huge variety of true blue and white fabrics had been collected for this pattern. It is machine quilted with small stars and hand bound. It measures 70″x72″. $250

A baby quilt using vintage inspired fabrics would show your little one lots of love.

The machine quilting is large swooping hearts. The quilt measures 52″ x 55″ and could be used even on a “big girl” bed. $75. SOLD

Quilters think ahead months! This Halloween table runner was fun to make and would be great on your table in October. Both sides are display worthy. Measuring 12″ x 42″ $40

This table runner is not specific to a season but does remind me of spring with its muted colors. The striped binding is a filtered black and white with a touch of blue. 14″ x 52″. $40

Batiks in blues, pinks and browns were used to made these string half squares that form the 12″ x 36″ table runner. A batik is used as the backing also. $40

Holiday placemats! If you purchase all 8 identical mats, the price is $75. Otherwise the price is $10 a mat–i.e. 4 for $40. Both sides of the mats used the same winter print. They are machine quilted and bound. –The hanging thread is free!

Two very different aprons were added to our collection this week. The yellow/green block apron is lined and topstitched along the seams. The neck strap is adjustable with eye rings. $20. The KU quilt is unlined and has a small pocket. The neck strap is also adjustable–it is part of the side ties that run through the arm casings. $20. A huge thanks to Elaine for modeling it. She is a true KSU Wildcat and not a fan of KU–but for me she put it on with a smile.

Ah, the best for last. Diane has been busy trying new crochet patterns—

More cardinals, a couple of pumpkins and for the 4th–EDDY the American Eagle! $10 each

Every other summer, the Prairie Quilt Guild has their huge show at Century Two. I go and ohh and ahh at all the beautiful quilts–especially the one I totally appreciate but would never attempt to make.

This quilt was the BEST IN SHOW. There were hours and hours of hand appliqué and the choice of colors is perfect.

The hand quilters at First United Methodist took home three ribbons!

This quilt already has a home–the quilters custom quilted it for the owner.

Remember the white on white–really, green and gold on a whole cloth quilt? The king size quilt won the “Best Hand Quilting” !!! I heard the judges thought only one person quilted it because the stitches were so consistent.

Congratulations to these very precise and patient women.

Happy summer to all of you–there are plenty of days to fill with your favorite things –be it popsicles or trips to the lake or quilting!

Sewing + Audio Books=A Good Day

How would you describe a good day? I am not talking about those “once in a life-time days” when you were married, or your first child was born or you bought a home, but what makes an ordinary day feel really good? Two close friends answered that question with “playing in the dirt”; they are gardeners with beautiful green space around their home. Riding at least 30 miles on her bike would make a day great for another friend. Scouring for treasures in thrift stores and outlets is a perfect way to spend a day for some. Completing a list of chores before setting in a ball park watching the home team win with the temperature around 75 would be my husband’s idea of a good day. Each person’s definition of a “good day” is just a little different. And isn’t it wonderful we all have a different viewpoint. If we all thought a great day was a day spent on the lake in a sail boat, the lakes would be too crowded to enjoy.

Three factors make up a good day for me. One, my calendar needs to be empty, no errands or appointments and no dreaded “to do” tasks. Two, a planned quilting/piecing project that requires a bit of creativity with all the fabric on hand. And Three– a well written book that has been recorded. I discovered years ago I cannot sew without a book. I have tried and it just doesn’t work. Before Libby or Cloud Library (on-line libraries), audio books came on cassettes from the library. I would check out the maximum number of titles to insure I would always have something to which I could listen. I have waited to start sewing until I returned from the public library with an armload of cases.

The audio book can be fiction or non-fiction. I like mysteries, biographies, historical fiction and non-fiction, some classics and best sellers. I don’t like science fiction or fantasy. I like British cozy mysteries but I don’t like what I call Hallmark movie books.

I have two poor reading traits–if the passage is descriptive and the book is plot driven, I will skip huge selections to reach the action passages. With audio books, I must listen to it all to be certain I don’t lose the plot. I have discovered the value of hearing it all –for the most part–with audio books. Second, I have little self-control and often skip to the last chapter to find out what happens when I am only half way through the book. Not easy to do with audio books, so I just continue along not sure what will happen.

One “con” of audio books, especially from foreign authors, is keeping characters straight. I need to the see the visual spelling of a name to recognize it’s role in the plot. The cast in Henning Mankell’s Swedish mysteries was extremely difficult to keep straight.

Occasionally, an audio version of the book is recommended over the printed version. The audio version THE CALAMITY CLUB by Katheryn Stockett, the author of THE HELP, has been recommended over the printed version. THE DUTCH HOUSE narrated by Tom Hanks is a delightful listening experience. When I listen to an Australian novel, I want to hear an Aussie accent.

I use wireless headphones to hear above the sound of the sewing machine. And wireless ones allow me to move around to use the cutting table or ironing board without stopping or starting the book.

I have friends who watch TV while sewing but I catch myself stopping to watch the screen. I just get more done with audio only.

I borrow books from Libby and Cloud Library, extensions of the public local and state libraries.

I am too cheap to subscribe to Audible or any other subscription service. The price I pay for listening free, is that sometimes I must wait a long time to borrow a new release. Sometimes one must juggle loans. At times several titles I have requested months ago all become available within a short time period.

All of this is to say some of my best sewing, piecing and quilting happens when I am listening to an audio book. I will share my recommendations and I would like very much to hear what you have been reading or listening to lately.

Recommendations–

KIN by Tayari Jones, our latest book club selection. Wow, just Wow

A FAR-FLUNG LIFE by M.L. Stedman–Australian author who wrote THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS. I like novels in the out-back as much as British mysteries. In a former life, I must have lived on a million acre station in Western Australia 😉. This is compelling story how one incident can change everything.

THE CALAMITY CLUB by Katheryn Stockett –Over 600 pages I devoured in five days.

MY GRANDMOTHER ASKED ME TO TELL YOU SHE’S SORRY by Fredrik Backman. It took me a while to “get it” but then I never wanted it to end.

A few of my favorite authors–Jane Harper (mysteries set in Australia), Henning Mankell (his Wallander series), Chris Bohjalian- contemporary writer who vowed to never write the same novel twice, and of course—- Anne Quindlen, Ann Padgett, Anne Tyler, Lisa Jewell, Bill O’Reilly, Kate Quinn, Isabel Allende, Jacqueline Winspear…oh. I could go on and on so you tell me yours!

My conclusion is that I must live to 120 years to make all the quilts I want to make (and use up the fabric I have) and to read all the books that I have on my iPad and nightstand!

This week we didn’t many finished projects but several are almost finished so keep checking back.

Just wave your magic wand, and all your wishes will come true! Diane fashioned these star wands. Two grandmothers have already purchased some for two special girls

$5 each

Heather made a special trip to downtown to deliver this patriotic table topper. It measures 20″ x 22″. Perfect for a round table which can be difficult to decorate. $30

We had a special visitor this past Wednesday. Maddy accompanied her mother to quilting and was recruited to model this apron. The apron with its long ties can be worn by someone as petite as Maddy or someone much larger. It is lined and has two pockets trimmed in rick rack. $20

A zippered pouch with a carrying handle can be used so many ways. The mini charms used to create the coordinated patchwork is “Chance of Flowers” by Moda. It is lined. $30

Economy blocks in blue plaid are the background for this pup. The pup is appliquéd on the front.

I failed to recorded the measurements but it is large enough to serve a child for several years. I promise to post the dimensions next Wednesday. Some folks would label it a “boy” quilt…but if you like blue and you like puppies, this quilt is for you!

I have three large quilts to pick up from the long arm quilter, all needing to be hand bound. I am looking forward to many “good days”–sewing and listening to a recommended audio book!

Image from NY Times

Evolution of Quilting Tools

Both my grandmothers quilted–because they needed warm covers for their families in the winter and because it was a creative outlet in the Depression/World War II era that did not offer women many opportunities to brighten their world. They used scraps left over from making garments for their families supplemented with some yardage they purchased. Much of the fabric at their disposal came from cloth sacks that held chicken or animal feed and flour or sugar. The most basic sewing tools were used. All that was needed was a pair of shears, a 12 inch ruler from the school room, a pencil, cardboard from a cereal box to create a template, short straight pins that could rust easily and needle and thread. Both of my grandmothers had treadle sewing machines.

Patterns were traditional ones that didn’t require printed instructions or was copied from a finished quilt seen at a neighbors or family member’s home. In the early 1920s, quilt patterns began to be published in newspapers and women’s magazines.

The most notable ones were from the Kansas City Star. (I still have many clipped patterns on yellow brittle newsprint that my grandmother saved.). Some current quilt historians suggest that many of these patterns were drawn by persons who had never quilted due to their intricate designs. Today a quilt pattern may be a dozen pages of measurements, instructions and layout suggestions. The Kansas City Star pattern was a half of two columns on one page!

I quilt because I enjoy the process–selecting a pattern, choosing fabrics, challenging myself to be accurate when cutting out the pieces and sewing them together. I find it fascinating to observe how a quilt changes after each step of the production–blocks look different when combined with other blocks and sashing, quilting gives the quilt substance, and binding frames it. Each step in “quilting” seems to change what I thought it would look like and how I would feel about it. I quilt not of necessity but to satisfy a creative need.

Just as my grandmothers and I quilt for different reasons, the tools I use have changed also. I still use shears but mainly to clip threads. Most of the cutting of pieces for the blocks are cut with a rotary cutter, acrylic rulers and a cutting mat. Very seldom do I used a template to draw around and cut by hand. My sewing machine is electronic with seam width guides. And the only hand sewing I do on my quilts is the binding. I even have a selection of “straight pins” to use depending on the purpose.

The evolution of quilting tools seemed to be to speed up the process. The value of making quilting less time consuming is debatable but most of us in 2026 would not quilt if all we had were our grandmothers tools.

The first huge change was the invention of the rotary cutter. It was introduced in 1979 and allowed quilters to cut out pattern pieces more quickly and more accurately. This new tool resulted in old and new quilt patterns being made more streamlined.

But the evolution of quilting tools is continuing! Just less than a couple of decades ago, Gudrun Erla, a quilter from Iceland, and Creative Grids 9 (well known specialized ruler manufacturor) developed THE STRIPOLOGY RULER.

This tool was designed to cut fabric even more efficiently and accurately. In fact it is advertised to reduce cutting time by 75%. The ruler is made from a transparent high quality acrylic. The ruler is a large square or rectangle with premade slots in increments of an half inch. The non-slip surface and the weight of the ruler allows multiple accurate cuts without moving the ruler or fabric.

With practice and the instructions included with the ruler, strips, squares, triangles and diamonds may be cut. The ruler may be used to trim blocks to a prescribed size.

The Stripology Ruler has become a life saver for me. I cut up old sheets, pillowcases, curtains and dated fabrics into 2 inch strips for others to make crochet rugs. Using the larger stripology ruler, I can reduce a queen size sheet into a pile of strips in ten minutes. Just imagine how my grandmother felt after tearing or cutting rags into strips…achy shoulders and hands!

The rulers are expensive. The largest ruler, there are four sizes, is $82– the mini is $50. And truthfully, I use it more for cutting the strips for rugs than I do for my quilts. But in the evolution of tools, it is brilliant. What will be next?

To learn more about the rulers check out the unbiased review on http://www.thecraftyquilter.com. Check out the many YouTube videos illustrating how to use one.

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What did we finish and bring to share?

Tea-towels 27″ x 27″ 100% natural sustainable cotton, hemmed w/ hanging loop $9 each

Another table runner celebrating the very special Fourth of July this year! The backing is a patriotic print which would make a great table runner by itself.

18.5″ x 41″. $40

Different floral prints were set on point for this 14″ x 28″ table runner. The outer border is machine quilted in a very classic style. $40

This preprint panel has a Far Eastern feel. The fabrics used in the borders compliment the colors in the panel. Elaine made two nearly identical wall hangings using the same fabrics–the backing are different. Each wall hanging has a hanging sleeve, making it easy to display it on a wall in your home. The machine quilting pattern echos the flowers in the panel. 27″ x 30″. $50.

This table runner reminds me of a tapestry hanging on a castle wall. (Yes, I read a lot of fiction.). The colors in the border print are used again in the center stars. The black background helps make the colors sparkle. 16″ x 34″. $40

Something very special was completed this week after hours and hours of hand quilting.

These three quilters spent hours bent over a quilting frame taking tiny even stitches to create this keepsake. The quilt is just like them–traditional but would grace any modern style home.

The block is a variation of a nine patch and is set on point. The fuchsia print is an abstract print and was also used on the back.

Measuring 82″ x 82″, it would fit nicely on a queen size bed.

This beauty will be entered in the Prairie Quilt Guild show this summer. –where I am expecting it to receive a ribbon!

This quilt could become a treasured heirloom, passed from generation to generation. $500

Wonderful textile art are can be made with very simple tools or with the most advanced tools designed to facilitate the process and to insure the best accuracy. This is an individual choice. Remember there are no “quilt police” that enforces the use of any one tool or technique. Enjoy the process no matter what route you take.

Small but Mighty

What is quick to make? Uses leftover fabric? Sells well at the Quilt Etc. Sale? Can be quilted on a domestic sewing machine? Quilters enjoy creating them? Quickly decorate your home for the season? Did you guess table runners? If you did- you are correct! Table runners do all that and more. We have had a wide variety of table runners completed lately…some flew off the shelves and others will be here for the sale in October. Table runners are popular for many reasons and have been around since ancient times.

The Egyptians used table runners decorated with hieroglyphics and symbols woven into the linens. Table runners were a practical necessity for hosts in the Middle Ages due to the sloppy manners of their guests. Table runners were easier to laundry than entire table cloths after a night of feasting. As manners improved and laundry became a bit easier, table runners became part of the linens used to decorate an elaborate table.

Today table runners still serve several purposes. Practically, they protect bare wood table from heat and candle wax. Table runners add interest to a table landscape by adding another layer of texture or color. Centerpieces-floral or figurines- would look lost without the layer of fabric in the center of the table. It is not uncommon to find a table runner on top of a tablecloth with the purpose of calling attention to the centerpiece or adding color or texture to the table scape.

And we may call them “table” runners but they can be found many different places besides a dinning table. Have you envisioned your table runners on a coffee table? the entry way table? bookshelves? side boards? a dresser? the fireplace mantle? an event registration table? a picnic table? the kitchen island? on the end of a bed? Some of our table runners would also be cute/interesting wall hangings. Thinking out side the box is easy with your table runners.

(photos from the internet)

Traditionally table runners are placed in the center of the table, end to end. Some designers suggest that a runner should extend over the ends of the table by several inches. That isn’t my style. But for a formal occasion and if the fabric has a great deal more drape than quilted runners, I probably would extend the runner. Occasionally a table runner is arranged across the table to create a separate space for each guest or to serve as a placemat.

Table runners are the easiest method to decorate for any holiday or season. Traditional colors such as pastels for spring or orange and black for Halloween set the mood.

We are the Quilters at First so of course the table runners we make and offer for sale are quilted. But we do have many different styles, themes and sizes. Here are our latest ones.

One of our smaller ones, it measures 12.5″ x 26″. It would fit smaller tables. Machine quilted and hand bound. $30

This close up shows the true colors better.

Blue and white is classic. The majority of the prints are geometric with one or two floral prints. This table runner is perfect for all year, no matter what month it is. Machine quilted and hand bound. The backing is a pale blue. 14″ x 38″. $40

True fact–some of the big box craft chains already have fall and Halloween items out on the shelves. So, guess this table runner isn’t too early.

Another small one- this Halloween explosion of traditional colors and icons would be great on an entry table with a candy dish or on a side board with grinning jack o lanterns. 9.5″ x 29″ Machine quilted and hand bound. $30.

These three batik stars are on a background of silver snowflakes. The traditional red and green suggests Christmas. 19″ x 63″ It is machine stitched in a meandering pattern. The backing is a white on white snowflake print. $40

Cousin to the table runner is the table topper. Usually a table topper is square or round and used on a smaller table.

Four different color families were used in this topper–red, purple, green and yellow/gold. It measures 20″ x 20″ . These traditional prints would add charm to a country or cabin style home. $35

This lovely hanging over the banister at Church is already sold! But I wanted you to see this “eye-candy”.

This 80″ x 80″ quilt is simply half square triangles but all of the fabrics are from a Kaffe Fassett line. He is known for his dazzling colors and larger prints. The stripes, dots and plaids create order. Plus the points are spot on! It was quilted in a butterfly motif with a variegated thread.

Vicki has make 3 more red, white and blue table runners that were requested after our last post.

We had to rearrange our showcases due to great sales but we still have “red, white, and blue” items for your home –microwave bowls, splatter guards, pennants, placemats, table runners and a lap quilt.

If you visit a previous post Photo Gallery-of the ETC items: home decor, accessories, gifts, twenty one different table runners plus five table toppers are listed for sale!

Happy Memorial Day. I honor all those who gave of themselves so that I can be me and enjoy my life and will continue to work for all people to have that privilege.

Maycember

Graduation, Mothers’Day, Anniversaries and Birthdays–Did you know there is a term coined by the Holderness Family (the funniest, most realistic digital creators on Instagram and YouTube) that describes this time of the year? It is Maycember–is used to describe a frantic, jam-packed period at the end of the school year. I “graduated” i.e. retired from teaching fourteen years ago, but this May seemed especially busy. There were several one time events and once a year events, short trips, birthdays and graduation receptions. I am aware my calendar looks nothing like families with elementary children and teens but it was full enough I began to crave some “sewing time”. Sewing time is my happy time. Give me a no-stress project, an interesting audio book–preferably a mystery, and ice herbal tea; can’t ask for more!

But we did have some great projects completed this week.

The story behind this one is that it was completed sometime ago, put away and forgotten! Shirley was looking for batting stored in a box and found this prize! I call it an “I Spy” quilt, because so many different novelty fabrics were used. I see eye glasses, cats, cows..you name it. The quilt would be great for an older child’s bed. The faux flange added interest to the binding. Measuring 49″ x 58″, it machine quilted and can be yours for $150.

A quilt is has both sides pieced. Elaine used fabric from a Kansas Troubles line to make this quilt featuring Friendship Stars. The back is from the same line of fabric. A small lap quilt, 39″ x 39″, it could serve as a table covering. The quilt has a subtle patriotic feel. $75

This table runner combines “hourglass” and “flying geese” blocks in a toned down “red, white and blue”. Perfect for a smaller table, it measures 14″ x 24″ and is $35.

This one is sold, but it is such a great design, I just wanted to share it with you.

What do you think of when you see this quilt? Mountains in the distance? A roof top? But there are butterflies ..see in the machine quilting? This 39″ x 39″ quilt is $75. It is machine washable and had bound.

We have a wonderful friend of the quilters who watches First Church on TV. She is a remarkable quilter. She called me last week to ask when she could bring two items for the sale to the Church. I was so excited to see what she had made. And I was even more excited after I saw them. I was so excited that I forgot to note the important details last Wednesday, sooooooo I will share photos in this blog and will add details Tuesday after I am at Church.

“Strawberry Fields Forever”. The rich red of the patchwork strawberries suggests very ripe and sweet berries. The low volume prints do not fade away in the background and create interest. This table runner would be great for a dessert buffet.

This fabric was bought while on vacation in Colorado. The simple cone flowers and the colors certainly remind me of western scenes. It is machine quilted.

This photo shows of the prints and colors better. You can judge the size better in the first photo.

We meet every Wednesday at the Church. Some of us work with machines and some with needles and thread at frames. As I passed the Hand Quilters room, I snapped this photo of them working.

The rest of us spend our Wednesday with our sewing machines when we are not at the cutting table or ironing boards. But we take time to keep the showcase up to date. Wednesday we created a “red, white and blue” themed display.

if you are at First Church, go to 1B to see what we are currently displaying.

Hope your weekly calendar is as full or as empty as you are comfortable with.

Grades of Fabric

When I taught clothing classes in high school, I knew I had converted a student to the of love of sewing when the student walked around the classroom (we were a considered a lab class, less structured) and judged the new fabrics of other students. They would rub it between their fingers, pinch it or pick it up to study it. All of this would be done subconsciously. They had passed through that portal of recognizing quality fabric from lower grades of fabric. Once you have gone through it, you can’t go back!

For true beginners, I would recommend and urge parents to buy the “big box” store fabrics. For their students “learn to sew” bag, I did not want parents spending $9 a yard…this was a few years back. The “learn to sew” was designed to practice measuring, cutting with a rotary cutter or shears, sewing 5/8″ seams and top stitching a pocket and a casing. And in some cases, it was a difficult lesson to learn. Most of these bags were used later to carry sewing supplies to class and after class was over they became shoe bags in suitcases or something similar. Very few self respecting teens would carry their “learn to sew” bags through the high school halls. Therefore, less expensive fabric was the way to go.

But, after they had mastered the basics and wanted to make something more long term, I tried to steer students and families to the better quality fabrics. Quilts became very popular. Below are some of the quilts made by advanced classes that were exhibited in the Prairie Quilt Guild bi-annual show at Century Two

Photo quilts were very popular and expensive. After the expense of buying supplies to print photos and printing them, one did not want fabric that would shrink or fade or ravel.

The quilters at Quilters at First are proud of the quality of workmanship and of the fabric used in our projects. Thus, we are a bit picky with our choices of fabric. Most, but not all of the fabric used is premiun or quilt shop grade. This fabric is 100% cotton, with a tight weave (higher thread count) and high density printing to prevent shrinking and bleeding. Easily recognized names include Moda, Hoffman, Free Spirit, Kona, Andover, Maywood Studios, Ruby Star Society, Michael Miller and Riley Blake. But check a brand out for yourself.

Specialty fabrics are used for backings such flannels and polyester fleece. When selecting a flannel for a quilt, it is especially important to use a better quality–thicker or high thread count, because flannel shrinks. Flannel should be pre-washed before it is used. Fleeces are cuddly and soft and used on baby, toddler and teen quilts for their feel. Polyester won’t shrink, a major concern when purchasing fleece is that is anti-pill, which usually translates into the more expensive fleece.

Linen, gauze and voile are used occasionally either with cotton or together. These fabrics fray more easily and a larger seam allowance is needed. I am not a fan of using these fragile fabrics.

Thicker fabrics –corduroy or high quality flannel with nap result in thicker seam allowances and attention must be paid to the direction of the nap when assembling the quilt. Quilts with larger blocks or blocks made up of larger pieces are best.

T-shirt quilts or quilts made from worn garments (memory) quilts use a fusible interfacing to add stability to the knit or worn fabric.

If you are wanting know more about choosing fabric, there are many sites online with advice. I would suggest https://www.missouriquiltco.com/collections/fabric-by-the-yard-fby?page_view=1

Quilters at First prefer to use the best, thus budgets require us to shop sales, welcome fabric donations and use every scrap of the yardage.

We have some new treasures to share with you–

This a quilt for a “Princess” or “Sweetheart”. The 48″x57.5″ quilt is backed with a soft pink fleece which shows off the side to side machine quilting. It is hand bound and washable. $100

Rich deep traditional Christmas colors contrast beautifully with the pre-printed panels showing off holiday flowers and birds. The coordinating stripe fabric was used for the backing. The quilt is 70″ x 80″ . It is machine quilted in a holly leaf motif and hand bound. $225

Pealing bells are the sound of the holidays. This table runner in holiday prints is a great reminder of the season’s sounds. The backing makes this piece a 2 for 1 bargain!

14.5″ x 40″ $40

This Fourth of July will be a big one! The USA is celebrating its 250th birthday. So I am sure you will want to decorate for this holiday. We will have several “red, white and blue” table runners in the making. Two are newly finished.

13.5″ x 41″ $40. The backing is a red and white print.

12″ x 39″. $40. The backing is blue with white stars.

This is a “sweetheart” of a table topper. The hearts are machine appliquéd. Tiny buttons create a chain look. The diameter measures 17″. Machine quilted in a cross hatch pattern. $30.

And of course, we just can’t stop embroidering tea towels while watching the latest streaming series.

100% cotton toweling $10 each

I won’t whine about the huge increases in fabric prices when gasoline is $4+ a gallon and a pound of hamburger is $10. These are essentials, and admittedly quilt fabric is an extra. Just want you to know that “no fabric scrap will be left behind”!

A Different Fabric Use

Are you a “reduce, reuse” recycle” person? Do you have two or more trash containers–one for trash and others for paper, metal and glass? Have you had your shoes re-soled or a zipper replaced in a jacket rather than purchasing new shoes or jackets? Is your rice stored in a cleaned pasta sauce jar? Do you use cloth napkins? Do you have a donate box in your closet? If you answered yes to some of these questions, then this post is for you!

Mark has found a great way to “reuse” fabric that will no longer be used for its original purpose. Sheets that are faded or are torn or are no longer needed and will probably end up in the trash are cut into 2 inch strips, joined together, and rolled into balls.

This set of strips was cut 2″ with a niffy tool called a Stripology. (Acrylic ruler with built-in slits that allows for precision cutting.)

He joins the long strips with a non-sew method and rolls them into a ball to be crocheted.

Mark enjoys creating his own patterns. His color choices are limited by what has been found at estate and garage sales, donated fabrics that were appreciated but probably would never find their way into a quilt and friends’ contributions.

The rugs are thick and used more fabric than one would suspect. I always think I have mailed him more fabric strips that he could possibly use, only to learn he made up all the fabric. The finished rugs, averaging 24-30 inches diameter, are heavy…too heavy to send back to Wichita via UPS or the US post. So when family travels to Texas, they bring back his current inventory.

Last year at the Quilts Etc Sale, we included his rugs with the other fiber projects. They sold well, so we will showcase more this fall!

Since I didn’t number the photos, these rugs are 1-5 going clockwise.

These rugs are 6-10.

These rugs are 11-15. I really like #15.

These rugs are 16-20. For those of you from FUMC, #20 is from the curtains in the children’s choir room in C Building.

and these are 21-27. #24 is blue and white, my new favorite color combo.

He has been busy!!! Most of these are $25 each.

Here is my review– I have received and used several over the years. They last forever, I I moved all I own to my current home and that was ten years ago. They look and feel just the same as they did ten years ago. I launder them in the my washer and hang them to dry over the deck rail. They don’t unravel (un-crochet?). The one by the deck door has enough texture that it is a great shoe sole cleaner before entering the house. They are comfortable to stand on when working at the sink or workbench due to their thickness

If you don’t like the shape, these rugs can be washed and “blocked” to reshape them a bit.

I doubt these rugs are for your formal living room or dining room..but they are great for a porch or deck, in your work shed, utility room, bathroom, bedroom, cabin or vacation home. These rugs would fit in a “rustic chic”, “prairie style”, “lodge” or “primitive decor” vibe.

These rugs are a wonderful example of “up cycling”– the process of transforming waste materials, old, or discarded items into new products of higher value, quality, or environmental utility. Up cycling uses less energy and materials than “recycling”does. And best of all, tons (well, not really tons but lots and lots) of fabric did not end up in a land fill.

Contact me at quiltersatfirst.com if you are interested in one.