Just like everything else in life, our new quilt introductions go in cycles. Sometimes we have nothing to show you and other times we have a treasure trove! This week we had several finished projects come to Wednesday Quilting. Soooo, here they are!
This is my MaggiePearl! I love the name and as I mentioned on Facebook, if I ever brought a kitten home, I would name it MaggiePearl. It is 40″ x 66″. If you look closely on the photo of the back you can see the small floral “side to side” machine quilting. The fabrics are from my daughter’s scraps–they didn’t end up in a landfill but in this lap/nap quilt with the fun name. $125
I named this quilt “Sea Glass”. The batiks remind me of a handful of glass pebbles collected from a beach. It is 52″ x 72″. The pattern is the “Three, Six, Nine” .
The backing is also batik. The light blue piece allows us to see the quilting. The swirls remind me of waves rolling in on a beach. $150
Some of the large craft stores already have their Halloween craft/decor items out. Yes, really! So, I guess it isn’t too early for us to show you our two fall quilts.
This 41″ x 41″ quilt would add a real spooky vibe to your home if it was draped over a sofa or recliner. The machine quilting is huge spider webs! The stripes remind me of a witches’ stockings.
Flip it over and it becomes a table topper. $75
This seasonal quilt is a more sophisticated nod to Autumn. The modified “Churn Dash” blocks have pieced pumpkins and maple leaves in the center of each. The subtle colors compliment each other. It is 50″ x 64″…a large wall piece, a quilt for the end of the bed or a table covering. You decide. It is machine quilted and hand bound. $150
This “Rail Fence” quilt is made more interesting by putting the blocks on point. The assortment of blue fabrics tie this scrappy quilt together to create a very calm feeling. It measures 61″ X 61″ making it perfect for a child’s bed. The machine quilting is side to side. The scrappy binding is hand sewn. $125
Ready for the Red, White and Blue season–Memorial Day to the Fourth of July? This table runner is 12″ x 60″–super long for your picnic table, in or outside. It is machine quilted, bound and washable. $35
Several of us are finishing up projects we started during Covid. The “Little Drummer Boy” blocks were hand appliquéd while watching hours of Netflix!
The blades of the Dresden Fan are Denyse Schmidt prints. Blue “grunge” was also used for the binding. The neutral background is an assortment of low volume prints.
The quilt measures 72″ x 72″. $200
One of my favorite parts of meeting each Wednesday at church to quilt is “Show and Tell”. It is humbling to see what creative projects my friends created –often from scraps or left overs! I hope you enjoyed seeing the newest additions to our “store” of quilts. They will be for display and sale at the Quilts Etc. Sale, October 16-18 at First United Methodist Church–if someone hasn’t already purchased it!
Did you get a pop-up on your computer reminding you this Sunday is Mothers’ Day? Yup, it is the second Sunday in May, officially Mothers’ Day. Do you know how and why this special day shows up on our calendar?
I have been preparing for a Church class presentation on Methodist women, past and present and have discovered many fascinating women. These courageous women, on whose shoulders we stand, deserve to be celebrated.
Anna Maria Jarvis is one such person. Her life could be material for an historical novel. Never a mother herself, she was the spear head for Mothers’ Day becoming a recognized holiday.
A life long Methodist, she and her mother worked for the improvement of women’s lives, especially in West Virginia and Philadelphia. Anna’s mother had often expressed a wish for a day to honor mothers. After her mother’s death in 1905 until 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed an declaration naming the second Sunday in May as “Mothers’ Day”, Anna held religious services honoring mothers and started the tradition of giving white carnations.
“Its whiteness is to symbolize the truth, purity and broad-charity of mother love; its fragrance, her memory, and her prayers. The carnation does not drop its petals, but hugs them to its heart as it dies, and so, too, mothers hug their children to their hearts, their mother love never dying.“
Most of us do not assign Victorian symbolism to our gifts of flowers, but it is interesting to know how it all got started!
Anna Jarvis became so upset with the commercialism of Mothers’ Day that she worked until her death trying to have the official declaration rescinded.
“A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world. And candy! You take a box to Mother—and then eat most of it yourself. A pretty sentiment.” Anna Jarvis
So in honor of Miss Jarvis, honor a woman or women that made your world better–in your own words!
Mothers’ Day opens the door to so many mixed feelings. Anna Jarvis wanted to honor her mother whom she had cherished–a woman who had been a great role model and who had encouraged her to learn, to grow and to serve. Many of us were so privileged, but there are persons who did not had good experiences. Have you noticed that several on-line businesses give persons the option to opt out of Mothers’ Day ads, acknowledging that Mothers’ Day can be painful for some? I am grateful for my mother, grandmothers and my children who helped shape the person I became. But I am also grateful for the women who “mothered” children in a classroom, who took foster children into their homes, who loved their husband’s children as their own, who gave their child up for adoption– and all those who worked to make this world better for all children.
How did the women in your past influence the person you are today? Do you read because you were read to as a child? Did you choose your career due to a particular woman’s influence? Are your special recipes passed down from family? Are your acts of kindness mirroring what you witnessed?
My love of sewing/quilting is from my grandmothers, my mom and some patient home economics teachers. Their encouragement allowed me to do “my sewing thing”. For me, sewing has become another way to make connections between generations of women.
Mothers’ Day is a reminder to me to appreciate the generations of women in my personal and collective past. Due to the work and sacrifices of these women, I can vote, hold positions of leadership in my church, receive an education, manage my finances and make my own choices about my health, career, and family. I was shown love and how to love. I am grateful!
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What do we have new to share with you? It is the season of graduations, soccer games, track meets, conferences, recognition banquets and anniversaries–so we don’t have a lot this week but stay tuned–next week we should have finished several.
A bright baby quilt with a Minky backing is perfect for that new baby in your life. The quilt is 41″ x 48″. The machine quilting has butterflies just like the print! There is batting in the quilt giving it a bit more body. The quilt is very washable. $50
If you like cats, here is one for you!
Every one of these pastel cats are smiling! This “quilt” is more of a blanket because there was no batting used making it very foldable. The backing is Minky– textured polyester, that is so soft. It measures 48″ x 54″ and is $50.
And of course, we have more hand embroidered tea towels with ric rac! (Wrap that Mothers’ Day gift in a tea towel, mom with appreciate the sustainability of the wrapping!). $9 each
We were given this fun quilt previously purchased at a quilt auction, but never used.
These different Halloween prints were set on point and framed. The triangles on the sides use the same print — a collage of holiday symbols. Look at the corners-I like that idea! It is machine quilted. 62″ X 62″ $75.
The backing is a patchwork of Halloween prints.
(We hang the larger quilts over a railing in a stairwell–that is why you see fingers or other body parts in these photos!!)
Can you believe this lovely quilt was made entirely from donated fabric in our stash!
Sorry for the blurry photo–the one below shows off the fabric prints and colors better.
Ordinary fabrics made special by the combination of colors and prints. The floral borders help to create the illusion that the blocks are blossoms. The backing is the same floral print. Machine quilted and hand bound, the quilt measures 54″ x 64″ and could be yours for $125.
My wish to all my “Quilty” friends is that you have some time this special week end to do what you love best!
Did you grow up attending pot-luck dinners? In southwest Missouri we had “dinner on the grounds”, a pot luck dinner served on sawhorse tables outside in the summer. We Methodists love the joke about a teacher asking children to bring an item that symbolizes their faith community and the Methodist child brought a casserole dish. And true to the stereotype, First United Methodist had a potluck to welcome our new minister, — luckily someone brought red jello, one of her favorites.
Those in charge often try to orchestrate the offerings, giving each church class a particular assignment; one class brings salads, one class brings main dishes, etc. But, if you did a scientific study of the ratio of desserts to salads to main dishes, I am sure there wouldn’t be a statically significant difference between the “planned” pot lucks dinner and the “true” potluck. Somehow, it always works out especially the larger the group.
There is a living history of the community with pot luck dinners. Persons become known for their speciality. Regular attendees learn to recognize the plate she always uses to serve her German Chocolate Cake or they do some discreet sleuthing to determine which pot of baked beans is the proven winner. Potlucks are evolving within a community.When it becomes too much for someone to make her famous potato salad, a new member is building a reputation for her/his quinoa salad.
As humble as one professes to be, most of us enjoy being complimented for our particular dish. Some folks share their secret ingredient happily (mine might be Krogers deli with a different container and a garnish) while other never get around to sharing their recipes. Admittedly, some don’t have a recipe; they just know how to put regular ingredients together to create a masterpiece. And there are those who use “the Toll Cookie” recipe on the back on the chocolate chip bag, but their cookies are the best! (Remember Phobe on Friends?)
I was reminded this week that our Quilts Etc Sale in October is a large potluck of offerings…all sorts of items for sale. Every year after the sale we discuss what we should make more of for next year and what we should limit. But then each one of us goes home and makes what they want. We have our specialities –some like to appliqué which requires lots of practice, others like to follow patterns exactly and others sort of create as they sew. Some love new challenges and others like to make what they know and what is quick. But the October sale is always wonderful pot luck of items!
Some of the dishes, I mean projects contributed this week are—
These crochet rag rugs could be the poster child for “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”. They are made from fabric that would have ended up in a landfill. Quilters contributed out-of-style prints and colors. Bed linens that were worn in spots or were uncomfortable were rescued. They are washable and last forever. I have had one on my deck that gets western sunshine and is still great.
This really is a set of 6 placemats made for a summer supper! The backing is the pinpoint red dot. When watermelon juice is spilled, throw them in the washer. 12″ x 18″. $60
This placemat set is an example of adding a bit of black to the mix of prints results in enhancing the other colors. The backing is the same pink gingham as the binding. The set of 4 is $40. 12″ x 18″
Soft flannel receiving blanket for the new born–is there anything more cuddly? Each blanket is double thickness and measures 33.5″ x 33.5″–the perfect size to swaddle a baby. The flannel is quilting quality and of course washable. Each blanket is $20.
Look who showed up– Mr. Tiger! I am in awe of the majestic tigers that live in the Sedgwick Co. Zoo. This pillow would a great gift for a child after a trip to the zoo. The back of the pillow is a green woodland print Approximately 10″ square–$25
SOLD
A ❤️ table topper—$30. Get a jump on the season!
Black and white prints are sharp and clean looking! This 57″ x 72″ lap or nap quilt is custom quilted emphasizing the white frames around each block. SOLD
The backing is a black and white floral. Most of prints used in the front are floral with some geometric designs included. It is hand bound. This is a perfect wedding or housewarming gift. $200
Quilters at First have a regular smorgasbord of items for your shopping pleasure! And all were made locally with a smaller carbon footprint than most manufactured items. Some of the items were made from fabric purchased for another project and have eliminated waste. Plus 100% of our sales goes to further ministries of our Church. So pull up a chair and enjoy the pot luck we have provided.
Have you ever found a quote or saying that sums up what you have been thinking or pondering but that person said it better than you could? This is a simple quote I have lived by but couldn’t put in words –“A Home is a Portrait of a Person” by Alessandra Branch. If you walked into my house, what would you know about me and my husband? What do our furnishings and decor reflect about us? I can’t think of many items in our home that don’t tell you something about us–from the framed print of “Baseball at Night” hanging over our bed to the vintage dishes or the quilts adding color and a story.
My husband’s personality and his career is a “function over form” sort. Most things need to have a purpose. I am child of depression era parents; I really do hate to waste money! These two traits have combined to be our vibe. Almost everything in our home reflects this. We seldom just buy something because it is “in” or a fad but we do collect items that reflect our passions…..framed baseball quotes, large glass canisters to contain dozens of found used baseballs, a windmill weight from his grandparent’s farm. And what have I added? Books, lots of plants and of course quilts!
Quilts are for beds, right? I keep a quilt on the bed in the guest room instead of a spread or duvet. I also hang them on the wall instead of a photo or print.
I use quilts to cover up tops of furniture, at the end of the bed during this transitional season and to fill a pie safe of my grandmother—everything needs a function!
All these uses are rather traditional, but quilts may be used in less conventional ways also. Quilts are often used for tables.
I pull this pastel Grandmothers Flower Garden out every spring to use as a spring table cloth. I found this beauty at a farm sale in western Kansas. The owner knew it wasn’t from his family; just one his wife found and bought. Every hexagon is hand quilted! The binding follows the shape of the hexagons (not easy to do!) The fabric is consistent with fabrics of the 1930’s—but this isn’t a scrap quilt. Fabric was carefully selected and purchased for the quilt. Was it a wedding gift or made for a hope chest?
I have a table quilt featuring holly leaves I made for a Christmas dinner. Give your quilts another look and decide which ones might be used as a table quilt.
I found on the internet, several examples of quilts being used as curtains.
Here a quilt is used as a door or room divider-
And shower curtains–with a liner of course. This isn’t my style, but another use of quilts.
And of course quilts can be made into something else–
Jackets and coats made from quilts are very popular now.
Instructions abound for clothing and accessories made from quilts.
If a quilt is beyond repair, it is often referred to as a “cutter” quilt. Using the parts of the quilt that are salvageable, all sorts of items are made.
A couple of years ago, Shirley used the last bits of a Wedding Ring quilt to make these pillows and pennants.
Christmas stockings, tree ornaments, placemats, stuffed animals and many other items have been made from cutters–giving new life to much loved quilts.
Quilts are a major part of my life and home. Walk into my home and you will know I believe quilts should be shown off, used and used up.
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Quilters at First are busy on projects, but very few have been finished for me to share with you this week.
We had one set of placemats
The reversible placemats are the same print in two different colorways. They are machine quilted and hand bound in a rust print to match the tiny floral design. Measuring 12″ x 18″, the set of 4 is $40.
Heather contributed a spring table topper.
Easter eggs are the feature fabric and the frame fabrics are in colors pulled from the print. It also could be reversible. 18″ x 20″, it is $30.
Paulette made several soft flannel burp cloths. They are double thickness and machine quilted so they will survive many, many trips through the washer and dryer. They are $3 each and she has several of each print.
A quilt is made from yards of fabric, hours of time and learned skills. All, much too valuable to waste. So look at those quilts again and think up new ways to incorporate them into your home.
I am sure you know the paradoxical saying “if you want something done, ask a busy person”. The Quilters at First are living, breathing examples of this quote. I have written about the quilters who prepare a meal for 120 persons at the Open Door Homeless Resource Center once a month, but this post is about one of the Quilters who gives approximately eight hours a week to the ET Cetera Shop in Newton, KS.
The ET Cetera Shop was started in 1976 as a way to raise money for the Mennonite Central Committee. Since then, they have donated more than $4 million! Currently there are about 130 volunteers and one of those volunteers is Elaine S.,a member of Quilters at First.
After working in the shop and serving on the Board for almost four years, she still feels passionate about the shop’s mission. Elaine listed three different positive aspects of the shop. 1. Money is raised for relief work around the world. 2. The shops serves everyone, but for those with a limited budget, it is a means of getting items at a fraction of the original price. and 3. It keeps useable items out of the landfill! “One man’s trash, is another’s treasure.”
The ET Cetera shop operates on a five week cycle. Items do not stay on the floor longer than five weeks. If they do not sell, even after reducing the price, they go to the “free room”. The items are free to anyone…hmmm, might want to check that out!
The Quilters at First receive many boxes of donated fabrics and craft items. The items we can’t use, we give to Elaine to take to the shop. Elaine, is also our scout of specific items we do need for a particular project.. Most of the ric rac I use on tea towels is from the Et Cetera shop. I don’t feel I am breaking my fabric “diet” if I buy something from the thrift shop!
I particularly like that they recycle much of the unusable items. So, in addition to shopping at the store, it is a “feel good” place to donate.
Here is my unbiased recommendation…Check out the ET Cetera shop in Newton. It was clean (very important to me) and well organized. The staff was helpful and the shop is easy to find on the Main Street. The shop is open 10 am to 5:30pm every day except Sunday. Who knows what you may find…for pennies!
What did we have new this week?
A set of four placemats that could be reversible.
The placemats measure 12″ x 18″ and are machine quilted. The back, which could used as a placemat, has multi-colored polka-dots. $40. SOLD
This wall hanging would make the birthday person feel special. It could hang on the wall or serve as the centerpiece but “Yea!, it is your day!” $25. 13″ x 18″
Can a tea towel make you happy? This one does with its bright unique flowers. $9
The Easter Bunny came through with this piece–well, actually it was Shirley, but you have to agree, this is special!
Bunny is smiling as he sets on top of the “Court House Steps” (that’s the traditional name of the block). He has a good supply of delicious carrots, so he is ready to move to your home.
Shirley added machine quilted carrots in the border. The block has a medallion quilting pattern.
The backing is the same fabric as the binding.
Measures 17″ x 23″, $50
You won’t find anything like this is the big brand name craft stores!!!!
Hoping and praying for a good soaking rain in Kansas. And as everyone knows, the best days for sewing are rainy days!
Remember the commercial for LIFE cereal back in the 1970’s and early 1980’s with Mikey, the little brother that was the guinea pig for his two older brothers when they were served a new cereal? “Let’s get Mikey” and “he likes it!” became catch phrases. We quilters have adopted/adapted that phrase to “Give it to Diane-she will use it”.
We are gifted many boxes of fabric, sewing supplies and craft items from generous folks who are downsizing or dealing with a parent’s or grandparents’ home. We have received valuable fabric, tools and other supplies. Regular quilters do not have much use for yarn, lace, ribbons, beads and other bling that we also receive. But, we do have Diane in our group and she see potential in the odd piece of embroidery or the scraps of felt and the pretty ribbons! Invariably, come Wednesday, Diane has a new project to share. Look what she brought this week–
Book marks were made from old embroidered dresser scarves and patchwork pieces never quilted. They are sturdy with heavy interfacing sandwiched between the recycled fabric. $3 each
More stuffed hearts that have a front pocket for a Happy Mother’s Day gift or greeting. Know someone having a birthday soon–these would be perfect to make a birthday gift extra special. $10 each
Earlier creations include–
Peep mug rugs—or coasters if you like that term better. The bunnies are appliquéd on the patchwork mat. $8 each
Bunny treat bags–with floral ears and and fluffy tail—-The tail is probably from donated yard the other quilters passed on! $8 each
Diane saw the need for adult bibs–is there a better word? and created several different ones that can be for either male or female…all with donated fabric or fabric in her stash. $15 each
These little wallets with two pockets hook onto your lanyard , belt loop or purse. They snap close. Scraps of reproduction fabric and recycled linens were cleverly used. $10 each
Plain boring bags rescued from the $1 bin was styled with this patch
More “let’s see what I can do with this- Diane” items we have in our sale!
Of course, all our quilters are very talented—but it is Diane’s desk that we unload the “bits and pieces”, knowing something good will show up.
We have a few new items by other members–
This set of 4 placemats is perfect for a summer luncheon or Sunday brunch. The coordinating print on the back allows them to be reversible. They are machine quilted and hand bound and of course, washable. The colors will work with many different types and sets of dinnerware. They measure 12″ x 19.5″ and are $40
If you have been invited to lunch, one of these hand embroidered tea towels would be an appreciated hostess gift. $9 each
Do you see yourself spending hours in the kitchen preparing for Easter lunch or a Memorial Day picnic? You will need this twill apron to keep your outfit spotless. It has an adjustable neckband and long waist ties- allowing it to be tied in front. $15
Do you decorate for every holiday–I have people in my life that do! This St. Pat’s table runner will turn your table Irish!
It could be reversible. Machine quilted and hand bound–$40
Thanks for reading and here is to seeing the potential in bits and pieces!
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See something you like and you don’t live in Wichita? We will mail it UPS to you.
March is such an interesting month. One day dog walkers are passing each other on the side walks with greetings about the lovely spring weather and the next day, snow is blowing across your windshield. Daffodils are blooming, trees are budding, but there is ice on the sidewalks from over eager homeowners watering their lawns.
National Quilting Day is in March-always the third Saturday. Also, March is baseball’s Spring Training in Arizona and Florida. So most often I “celebrate” the day in a ball park. In addition, March is Spring Break for many schools and universities. March has a lot going on for itself! And we managed to incorporate all of these March happenings.
We flew to Arizona -to see our grandson on spring break and to catch a couple of games, with our bags packed with “early spring” outfits. At the last moment I threw in a heavy jacket. We couldn’t land in Prescott due to visibility issues because of snow! Opps! Might not be the warm weather I was used to in AZ in March. After spending a night in Denver, we returned to Prescott and was picked up by our grandson who is a tour guide extraordinaire. We visited Jerome-an old mining town, rode an excursion train, toured Sedona (and fell in love with it), and went to a Royals game in Phoenix and Organ Pizza before he flew home for the rest of his spring break. We attended another Royals game–they won both games, had lunch with a college friends and visited a quilt shop
Arizona Quilt Shop in Surprise AZ is close to the Royals’ ball park –easy to find. I could spend much more time than I ever do in this shop (close to a ball park–are you reading between the lines?). Due to my “fabric diet”, I only purchased one yard of clearance fabric for a border of an almost finished top and a placemat pattern. But if you are ever in Phoenix, I highly recommend this shop. The quilt shop in Sedona was more of a gallery of quilts in an upscale shopping center, with prices that matched.
While I was celebrating March, members of Quilters at First have been super busy creating –and finishing some great projects, every thing from pins cushions to queen size quilts.
Pincushions in a cup! Heavy ironstone like coffee cups were transformed into heavy duty pincushions. $10 each. Watch for more–they are just too fun to make!
Celebrating a birthday or graduation or retirement? Or just a “Free Day” that you do just what you want to do? This wall hanging or placemat is a bright reminder. 14.5″ x 19″. $25
I like pennants–they just make me happy. This bright primary colors are good for any special occasion. The longer one is $15 and the shorter one is $10/
We don’t have many tied quilts but yesterday some ultra soft and cuddly ones showed up.
Backed with pink fleece, this princess “blankie” is just right for nap time. 41″ x 47″ . $30
It was difficult to photo the “softness” of these two quilts. The first photo is a larger pink tied quilt with a center panel. The center panel is a print that reads “baby”. The second quilt is a simple black and white polka dot tied with yellow pearl cotton and bound in yellow.
Need a blanket for an adult or teen that has a bit more class than the tied fleece blankets? Paulette added coordinating crochet edges to give a finished look.
50″ x 60″44″ x 60″54″ x 56″
Each is one is $25.
For the toddler learning their “ABC’s”–an “I Spy” ABC quilt. This non-gender quilt is machine pieced and machine quilted.
Very stylish plaid lady bugs adorn the back of this 40″ x 45″ quilt. Washable. $50
Another ABC quilt that is whole cloth tied–50″ x 52″. $30
Each block of this quilt is a different block pattern with the same theme–floral. Maple leaves, grandma’s flower basket, Baltimore rose are all here. Pieced and appliquéd blocks are included along with some embellishments to add variety.
Buttons on top of yo-yo’s with lace edging makes a very cute trio of blossoms. Even the flower pot has a special machine quilted design. 44″ x 56″. $175
Patchwork tulips could not be more perfect for March!
The print on the back is an entirely different vibe, but would allow you to use both sides on your table.
36″ x 36″. $50
These tulips have a bunny setting in the middle! Ms.Bunny is appliquéd flannel. The blue background is machine quilted in a simple cross hatch. The pastel plaid binding adds spring colors.
12.5″ x 18.5″ –sized to fit almost anywhere. $50. (SOLD)
Jumping ahead to fall, we have two new items, both for your table and an holiday flannel.
This Halloween table topper is 22″ diameter. Machine quilted houses in seasonal prints, host mummies and skeletons. $45
This table runner would work all fall. Autumn leaves are appliquéd on the pieced background. 12.5″ x 32″ $40
Nothing beats flannel for the winter months! This pre-printed flannel lap quilt is 39″ x 53″ and $125. It is machine quilted and has coordinating fabric on back.
My husband has an app on his phone that allows him to identify bird calls. But I think he and his phone would be very confused with these birds!
This piece of art was made by Janis R -of course, it was! I have fallen in love with all these birds and insects. Machine appliquéd with some embroidery and embellishments, perfect for all year!
The fabric used for the tree is exactly right as is the background print. Only $55, 16.5″ x 20″
Remember all those “not quite finished” quilt tops from my daughter. Here is another one finished!
Actually the colors are a little softer than represented in this photo.
The backing allows the machine quilting to shine! Hand bound, it measures 76″ x 78″—a large double or a small queen size. $275
As we were putting Spring/Easter items in the showcase at Church, a church member ask if we sell our items year around in addition to the Quilt Etc. Sale in October. We all responded with a loud YES. We love to make sure you can begin enjoying these items immediately–or start your gift shopping early. Contact any Quilters at First member and we will help you get what you want. Leave a comment below and it goes to my email.
The Quilt Etc Sale is on the calendar for October 16 – 18.
I promise I will show some great quilt projects in the second half of this post but first I wanted to share with you another interest/commitment by several members of Quilters at First.
If you look out of either of the tall windows in our quilt room any time of the day, you will see unhoused persons milling around on the sidewalks and street next to the Open Door Homeless Resource Center located across from the Church’s parking lot.
The Open Door Resource Center offers restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, storage, an address for mail and lunch every week day. It provides a safe spot to get out of the Kansas weather extremes.
The daily lunch is where we quilters connect to Open Door. A group of five or six women and one QH (quilter husband) prepare and serve a lunch the first Friday of every month. For years we have fixed tater tot casserole, so of course, we call it “Tator Tot Friday”.
Approximately, 120 meals are prepared. All the funds are donated by individuals or groups in the Church. Four Church classes take one month–either financially or by cooking and serving and paying for the supplies. Donna and Ray make delicious cookies for each “Tator Tot Friday” month not supported by a church class.
We are just one group in the Wichita area that does this on a regular basis. Many different churches, businesses and community groups contribute. All this is pieced together by dedicated Open Door staff. My “hat goes off” to these people who deal daily with issues that are overwhelming.
I realize lunch once a month will not solve the huge and seemly unsolvable problem of homelessness. Affordable housing, addiction, mental health, consumer education all contribute to this growing situation but “people got to eat”. And probably the quilters/ Tator Tot crew gain more from this experience than do the clients–greater sense of gratitude and a bit more understanding of the values, issues and reality of our neighbors who live on the streets.
And to my friend, who said to me years ago when I retired, “You can’t just quilt all the time”, I don’t! Quilters are comforters and what is more comforting than a hot meal when you don’t have a home.
And now to the fun part–What “quilt” goodies do I have to show you?
A “block of the month” quilt–a variety of blocks using several quilting techniques was used to complete this queen size quilt.
The backing compliments the fabrics used in the front. The quilt measures 83″ x 96″. The colors would work with several home color schemes. $300
Are you a puzzle person–you know I am!
The fabric print, the quilt pattern and the machine quilting all are puzzle pieces. A fun quilt to throw over a sofa in the family room or on a child’s bed, it is 50″ x 65″. $125 (The photo is taken in a stairwell at Church–held up by quilters!)
I really like this quilt and will go to a different banister to take a better photo–but Elaine used some of my favorite prints–cherries– to make this approximately 55″ x 65″ size quilt. Elaine used fabrics from our stash –so this qualifies to be in the “look what we made from your donated fabric” gallery at the quilt sale! $150. Perfect for summer!
This quilt pattern is Rail Fence, named for the zig-zag fences early settlers made from split logs that did not require wire or nails. Flannel in rich burgundy, purple and green insures the quilt is extra cozy. Measuring 39″ x 40″–a lap quilt–it is perfect for throwing over the back of a chair or over your legs when reading or watching TV. $100
The Easter Bunny is just around the corner! Here he/she is hiding among Easter Eggs. Janis R, the appliqué genius, made this fun springtime wall hanging or table topper. It is approximately 25″ x 26″ and $40. Who needs an Easter basket filled with candy when you could have this? SOLD
Another piece from Janis–with hints of all the things we look forward to in Spring. The table runner -or it could be a wall hanging in the right spot, is 14″ x 36″. Machine appliquéd and machine quilted. The backing is the same fabric as the fabric used in the border of the Easter Bunny piece. $50
My tulips are beginning to peak out of the ground. But we don’t have to wait for these tulips.
The table runner is approximately 15″ x 40″. These tulips will last much longer than those much anticipated garden flowers. $40.
These “peeps” will serve as a mug rug or as part of your spring decor on a table or a corner of your home. The bunnies are appliquéd and the patchwork is machine quilted. Approximately 8″ square- $10 each.
Different placemats “spice” up the most ordinary meal-anyway that is my excuse for having lots and lots of placemats. Plus placemats do protect your good wooden table top.
This set of six placemats measure 11.5″ x 17.5″. Machine quilted, hand bound and machine washable–$55 for the set.
Difficult to think about Christmas and the holidays–but this red and green table runner suggests that time of the year! Ric rac adds to gingerbread feel. Machine quilted and hand bound–washable. 13.5″ x 40″ $40
Our TV weather people have been suggesting we are not finished with snow–ugh. But who can be upset with a snow person.
Snow people are the feature fabric in this table runner. $40
Designed to hold a couple of credit cards or your ID, they can be attached to your lanyard or tucked into a pocket. Vintage fabric and 30’s reproduction fabric adds to their charm. $10 each
The highlight of each Wednesday is getting to see first hand all the creative and awesome pieces brought to share by my Quilters at First friends. Thanks for sharing this experience.
Good bye February, hello March! Are you going to be as extreme weather-wise as February was? One of the clients where I volunteer told me with confidence that we had seen the last of our cold weather..and the very next one predicted that there would have one more big snow storm before spring! Guess we will just have to wait and see.
The extreme winter weather encouraged more reading, more jig saw puzzles and more sewing than usual. I was gifted the first book in the SHADY HALLOW series by Juneau Black. I don’t do fantasy books or movies—sorry, I haven’t read Harry Potter, not sorry . But since my son gave this to me, (because he liked the cover) I felt duty bound to read it. The first ten pages were a struggle, but then I slowly fell in love with the characters and writing. I am reading the next one in the series. The series is a comforting escape from the real world.
I have a very long list of books I want to read–but something inside me says don’t use your time reading when you could be sewing. My compromise is audio books, of course. But something good happens to your body when you set down with a book in your hands.
Puzzles are good for your brain health, right? That is what I tell myself when I look at the clock discovered 30 minutes just disappeared! This winter, my husband and I have completed five one thousand piece puzzles and presently have one on the dinning room table–featuring quilts! My favorite brand is eeboo. Strange brand name but a poster is included of the puzzle, there isn’t “puzzle dust”, the photos are clear and the color on the box photo is the same as on the puzzle piece. If I am working on a puzzle, I can endure listening to the news without shouting!
February brought changes in our sewing world. Quilters at First moved locations. We had our first regular “Quilting Wednesday” in the new room. We spent a lot of time asking ourselves “Now where did we put—” and bumping into each other. The room is smaller but we are going to try a a small change in the arrangements. We do enjoy the visitors, the natural light and the tile floor.
February allowed more time in our individual sewing rooms. In March, quilting will be competing with yard work and travel for some of us. Many great projects were brought to quilting on Wednesday–some finished and ready for you to see and some almost finished and will be featured later. I have two quilts at the long arm quilter’s ready to be picked up and bound, two to take to her and two “almost finished”. I see miles of hand binding in my future.
Quilters at First have some of the best friends! Shirley’s friend pieced the top and gave it to be quilted and bound for our sale-wow.
The pattern and fabrics are from Laundry Basket Quilts-www.laundrybasketquilts.com. The designer Edyta Sitar is famous for her two color quilts and her complex patterns. This quilt is a lovely example of complex pattern looking simple by using only blues and creams/neutrals.
The quilt measures 75″ x 88″-it would fit a queen size bed. $300
Looking for a longer table runner? This 15.5″ x 60″ table runner would right at home in a traditional styled dinning room. I have seen similar designs in east coast colonial homes. Machine quilted and washable. $40
This table runner makes me think of Greece. But right here in Wichita, the bright print is the essence of summer.
Lemon meringue pie? lemon aide? Ice tea with a slice of lemon? It measures 15″ x 35″ and is $40.
Are you Irish –or do you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? But really, who isn’t a bit Irish on the 17th? The table runner approximately 20″ x 40″ and is $40.
Easter is a bit later this year. But we already have some cute gifts and accessories.
Filled with candies, trinkets or gift cards, they would be the perfect “I am thinking of you” present.
Carrots are very healthy for you–but carrots filled with candy would be more fun! $8 each
Or do you want a huge carrot on your table?
Diane made more hearts from vintage linens and handkerchiefs. Gift your favorite mom a heart–with a personal note or gift card. They also make sweet birthday gifts.
It is difficult to even think about autumn but we quilters do! This set of 6 reversible placemats are machine quilted and washable.
11.5″ x 17.5″. $55 for 6
Quilters sew one or two or even three seasons ahead of the current calendar. Halloween is a fun holiday for decorating.
This wall hanging would fit next to the front door or on the front door. “Spooky trick or treat” measures 30″ 36″ and is $35.
“Crows are among the brainiest organisms on earth outclassing not only other birds (the possible exception of parrots) but also most manuals.” (unknown author) This winter I watched two crows repeatedly attack a van on my son’s street–those crows held a grudge! Crows are part of fall–$25
A winter village table runner works during the holidays and through snowy January and February.
4″4″ x 51″. $40
Several items for everyday use were completed. We have scrub pads, pot holders, microwave bowls and mug rugs. Something new was a plate cozy for the microwave.
They have small darts on the sides to give a slight concave center. Phyllis made several in different prints. All cotton so they are safe for the microwave. $8 each.
Pink flamingos! Who said adult bibs had to be boring? $15 each
And if you really want to plan ahead or think Valentines Day should be every day, the table topper is approximately 25 ” diameter and is $30. The mug rugs are $5 each.
Please excuse my wonky photos–I am going to blame it on the space around the design wall–there isn’t much and it creates a challenge.
According to our TV weather persons, March 1 is the first day of meteorology spring, a promising marker. March 9 is the time change-ugh. My granddaughter has her 13th birthday. Daffodils will bloom on the sunny side of the house. Professional baseball starts it new season, exciting for some in my household. So welcome March, be kind.
“THE MOVE” is behind us! Although we had 2 inches of fresh snow on the road yesterday morning, I counted twenty six people ready to help! By 2 o’clock we were putting the finishing touches on the machine quilters’ room and the hand quilters had their quilt frames re-assembled and all the boxes in their new room. All this was made possible by many non-quilters helping out!
Do you call the husbands of quilters volunteers? Did they have a choice? Not sure, but Tom, Dave, Larry, Dan, and John were great! My husband took these photos–so of course I don’t have him or several of the others.
Several Church friends joined us out of the goodness of their friendship hearts. And again, I do not have photos of all those wonderful non-quilters who helped.
And of course, hot coffee, cookies and zucchini bread was available for breaks. Heavy lifting and walking up and down stairs with shelving, long tables, metal cabinets, quilt frames, tubs of fabric and sewing machines required pizza at noon to renew our strength. Remember these photos from the last post? This is just a portion of the fabric, notions, books and equipment we had to move.
One huge task we were dreading was moving the 78″ x 78″ design wall that had been fastened to sheetrock, to fastening it securely on plaster. But thanks to QHs (that’s quilter husband) and Church maintenance staff, it is up ready to be used. The plaster walls were also a bit challenging for the white board (necessary for planning parties), quilt hangers, etc.
At first it seemed a bit over-whelming!
But slowly, machines were placed in their assigned tables. Our personal chairs were placed by our machines.
Another QH, a retired engineer, solved the puzzle of four double outlets for a dozen machines, three irons, seven lamps and a coffee pot.
Our fabric stash was returned to the shelves–we have more on book cases, in tubs under the cutting table and elsewhere. This photo helps to explain our “make a quilt for the sale from our stash” challenge!
The cabinets were filled with items already completed for the Quilts Etc Sale in October. See all the micro-wave bowls on the top shelf?
We hung two bright quilts on our walls as an antidote to the dreary February weather Kansas is experiencing. The coffee cups are up next to the “treat” cabinet and coffee pot. A few command hooks for our wall hangings and it will be home!
This was my third quilt room move at Church! But because I am lucky enough to be a part of this community of women that quilt together on Wednesday, I would do it again just to a part of the Quilters at First.
So ready or not, FUMC, we will be quilting and sewing as well as laughing, comforting, planning, sharing treats, admiring finished projects, giving advice and “visiting” on the third floor of B Building every Wednesday.
Quilts, Etc. 