Fly a Kite

A while ago, I previewed some quilt designs that I had planned on completing in the future. You can see the original post HERE. Fly a Kite is a really fun quilt on so many levels.

Fly a Kite 2019

I had a blast designing, creating and quilting this project. Fly a Kite was unique and also had some challenges.

A Unique Quilt

On the whole, I tried to utilize older fabrics for this quilt. Not all had their dates on the selvage, but this fabric did:

As I said, many of the fabrics were older, including the backing fabric. Not only did I have these fabrics in my stash for many years (not going to admit how many), but I also know that they were not new when I acquired them. I have a habit of purchasing and being gifted with fabric from other quilters.

Unique Challenges

It does not matter if you create a block using traditional methods or paper piecing, the struggle to make pinwheel type connection points lay flat is real. I recently purchased a flat press and found that after swirling the middles and working seams flat, the press finished the block nicely. In fact, I plan on using this press to finish all my blocks. I found that I virtually eliminate any stretching because I am not using an iron.

E2E Quilting

Because this quilt is so special, I wanted to use an E2E pattern that was just as special. I went to my friends at Urban Elementz and found KITES.

I just love how this pattern plays on both the front and the back. Also, while it is true that this is not the normal, colorful and vibrant quilt that I usually make, because these are older fabric, I still love the look.

The only thing left to do is show it off at our next Guild meeting and then give it to him the first part of March. Love you Hunter!

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Bargello – M

Bargello quilts are simply mesmerizing. They are among some of the most intimidating pieced quilting patterns out there. Then again, their beauty can draw many of us into attempting their creation.

Bargello M is a gorgeous gold-laced quilt created by my good friend Margret. Not only did she sew this quilt top, the design did not come from a pattern. Instead she decided to tackle both the Bargello design but also to create her own pattern.

The moment I loaded this beauty on my machine, I knew I was looking at something special.

Choosing thread and pattern

As I mentioned, the fabric was flecked with gold throughout. This made thread choice easy – GOLD! Of course, many of you know that I really love gold thread on so many quilts, but in this case there was no other choice.

We originally discussed an E2E Pattern of sharp petaled dandelions; however, as soon as I started setting the quilt up I knew this was a mistake. Sometimes our vision does not match reality. Instead Margret and I discussed my thoughts and options and she chose Adagio.

Adagio is elegant, flowing and nests so beautifully. In addition, the flow and movement of this pattern mimics that of the pieced pattern to add softness and compliment.

Bargello M

Bargello M
Do you plan on creating a Bargello in 2019?  I just might!
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From Roll to Bolt

Ever wonder how your fabric gets on the bolt that you so lovingly pet at your local quilt store? Take a look at this magnificent machine. Have you ever watched “How it’s Made?” I just love this show! Recently, while in the Dallas Fabric District, I witnessed how a roll of fabric becomes a bolt – from roll to bolt!

Fabric Bolt Machine
This contraption has an amazing purpose,

The machine in the image above is quite interesting as it stands, but if you look at it there is some real genius here!. The machine takes up a minimum amount of space as it is configured vertically. The roll is loaded below, then the fabric is threaded to where the bolt is inserted and finally the bolt is loaded with your favorite fabric.

Roll the Tape!

This from roll to bolt machine (at least that’s what I call it) was in use at Golden D’or Fabrics. The operator was nice enough to allow me to video it’s operation. 

The process is almost mesmerizing!

After I drug myself away from this impromptu demonstration, I checked out the deals. While I didn’t find anything on this trip that was meant to be, I did see a beautiful gown that I fell in love withl

Beautiful Gowns!

Did you attend the semi annual sale at Golden D’or? If you did, then what deals did you find?

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Primary Mystery

Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to get back to projects again. One quilt I recently had on my machine to quilt I like to call Primary Mystery. This is a version of our guild’s mystery quilt that was done in the most striking primary colors

Primary Mystery

There are so many things about this quilt that I love – from the vibrant colors of the pieced blocks.

…To the Adagio pattern stitched in bright yellow thread. There is just so much to like about this pretty lady.

You may recognize this pattern as I have had similar quilts on my long arm in 2018. My version of The Mystery Quilt for 2018 was in Christmas colors.

I was also very happy to see a bright orange backing fabric laced with bright yellow quilting – How fun!

And for those that are interested, the E2E pattern came from Urban Elementz.

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2018 Reproduction Garments

Not only was there a lot of quilting going on in 2018 – there were quite a few 2018 reproduction garments as well. As many of you know, I love to create and sewing is a perfect outlet for creative energies. Also, I prefer to create something useful, so sewing for Renaissance Festivals is a perfect choice.

Below are some of the garments from 2018 – unfortunately, I am unable to wear all but one of these and that one is with some major adjustments.

Did I say unfortunately? HELL NO! this is a good thing. In a bit, I will be posting about some major changes in my life. Until then – what non-quilting projects have you worked on in 2018?

If you are interested in seeing more garments, check out Queen Selesti’s page as well as these links:

Queen Selesti

Scarborough Renaissance Festival
Texas Renaissance Festival

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