Sunday, December 18, 2011

It's a Shame!

I basted my Patriotic Jacket together earlier this week.  What did I find???

It doesn't FIT!!!

I've requested input on possible alterations, but have yet to attempt any of the offered solutions.  I was SO hoping to have this project finished by the end of the year!  We'll see...

Wish me luck!

Friday, December 2, 2011

1st 100 - Patch Block

1st 100 - Patch Block by basketcasejoy
1st 100 - Patch Block, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

It's December and I owe you a quilting update:

I've been working on a Leader/Ender project. (Thanks to Bonnie Hunter of quiltville.com for coining the phrase and to my favorite quilt buddy for finding the pattern at weddingdressblue.wordpress.com)

You'll be pleased to hear that I got so excited about this project that it kept my machine humming for MANY stolen moments. I was having so much fun that my Leader/Ender turned into a full-fledged project! I have now completed 10 out of the 12 blocks called for. (The ONLY reason I stopped was that I ran out of cut squares to sew - and I wasn't in the mood to cut more!)

So, the question remains, why is this called a 100-Patch Quilt?

Well, the reason is this:

There are 100 cut squares in each quilt block. You then add a narrow sashing strip and a row of 44 patches around each of the blocks. Once that's done you add wider sashing strips and a border to assemble the quilt top.

The directions for the quilt call for using 2" squares. However, when using that size, the resulting quilt turns out 75" x 99". That's a pretty BIG quilt! Having recently worked on another large quilt, I just didn't want to go there again. (At least, not while the memories are so fresh!)

What could I do?

I pulled out my 1" drawer (filled with squares and strips that measure anywhere from 1" to 1 7/8".) I had 2 choices...

I could either use the stack of 1" squares or I could be reasonable and choose the stack of 1.5" squares.

What did I do???

The voice of reason won out and I am using 1.5" squares for this jewel of a quilt. 1.5" squares from my 1" drawer, 1.5" squares that I am cutting from my scrap stash, and 1.5" squares that I am cutting from "gift" scraps.

I absolutely LOVE "gift" scraps!!!

In fact, I just got another bag of them at the last quilt guild meeting. "Gift Scraps" make my quilts that much more interesting. (Plus, it really makes the previous owner of those scraps feel good to know that someone is using the smallest bits of their cast-offs!)

Thank you, quilting friends!

Sunday, November 27, 2011

SAFF 2011 Haul

SAFF 2011 Haul by basketcasejoy
SAFF 2011 Haul, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

The Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair was held October 21 - 23, 2011 at the Western NC Agricultural Center in Fanning, NC. That's right outside of Asheville, in case you didn't know.

I went with the Mebane Knit Guild and had a great time. I meant to blog about it sooner, but never seemed to get around to it. Sorry!

Here's what happened... I went a little crazy in the vendor booths! This is the picture proof.

Until next time...
Enjoy the yarn-y goodness.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Flames in Action

Flames in Action by basketcasejoy
Flames in Action, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
I shared this portion of a quilt on Ravelry earlier today. Someone had suggested that one of the quilters might want to use a fire themed quilting design on her hot-colored Blooming 9-Patch quilt. I had used such a design and decided to share.

The quilt is named The Happy Accident because my friend and I did some bad math when figuring out how many blocks to make for quilts for my two sons. There were enough leftover blocks to combine with "plain" squares for another quilt.

The resulting quilt was a lap quilt for my husband. I used "fire quilting" by Vikki Pignatelli for my DH's quilt because flames (for fast cars) were a recurring theme in the fabrics that were chosen.

Here's the entry in my quilt book:

Flame Quilting

I made the quilt a number years ago. It hung in the 2006 NC State Fair and brought home an Honorable Mention ribbon.

Perhaps, I'll have something new to share sometime soon. Until then...

Happy Quilting!

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Quilting on 11/11/11

It's been quite a while since my last post.  I didn't realize just how long it's been!

Oh, well, I'm back now.  I was busy quilting on 11/11/11 (and the days before and since.)  I've used early morning hours and spare chunks of time in the evenings to put in some work on my Leader/Ender project, the 100-Patch quilt.  I've also made some serious headway on my Crumb quilt.  I'm really hoping to finish it by the end of the year.

Here's a progress picture:

Crumb Quilt (top)

There's only ONE seam remaining before it becomes a quilt top!!!

Hopefully, I'll have photos to share soon.

Happy Quilting!

Saturday, October 29, 2011

MR4 Winter Goodies

MR4 Winter Goodies by basketcasejoy
MR4 Winter Goodies, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

I was SO excited to get my MR4 Fall swap that I didn't realize that my MR4 Winter swap had arrived on the SAME day! Can you imagine my surprise???

I felt like I had won the lottery!!!

Just LOOK at all of the cool stuff Fidissimus included in my package. The BEST part was that she used the SAME mailing envelope that I had mailed to her! I love the fact that she reused it.

So. Did you SEE all of the cool stuff that was included in the package with my adorable snowman mug rug? Fabric, yarn, a selection of tea, a Knit Happens bumper sticker, AND the MOST AMAZING tape measure ever!!!

Thank you again, Fidissimus. I think I'll go have another cup of tea (just so I can put my mug rug to work.)

I heard that it snowed today in a number of states. I think that we should celebrate... that we DID NOT get any here!!!

Friday, October 28, 2011

MR4 Fall (Reverse)

MR4 Fall (Reverse) by basketcasejoy
MR4 Fall (Reverse), a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Surprise!!!

Here's the flip side.

Cool, huh???

:o)

MR4 Fall Goodies

MR4 Fall Goodies by basketcasejoy
MR4 Fall Goodies, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

My Fall MR4 arrived last week, but there was no time to post about it. :o(

Look at the cool mug rug that Nyesara sent from Australia. It's reversible!

She also included a beautiful fat quarter, a zentangle coaster, and 2 adorable patterns from an Australian designer.

Thank you, SO much!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Progress Goes to the Dog(s)

I thought about working on "Blackie" this week, but chose another project instead. However, you might notice from the photo that I have made significant progress since the last posting. There's still a LONG way to go!

The "wall" fabric has been chosen and a bit of fill in needs to be done. Then all that remains is the stitching. I'm hopeful that it will turn out well.

Monday, October 10, 2011

MR4 (Ravelry) Mug Rug Swap

I am hosting another Mug Rug Swap on Ravelry.com and this time we voted to have a common theme.  Well, common THEMES, to be more precise.  The chosen theme for MR4 will be Fall or Winter, the season or holidays within, recipient's choice.  What FUN!!!

Although, I thought that I might have to drop out, since we were one swapper short.  I put out a call for a Swap Angel, but there wasn't one available.  However, in the end, I just signed myself up for two. I had a mug rug almost ready to go that fit a fall theme. Another wouldn't really be a problem. Don’t know why I didn’t think of that to begin with!


MR4.1 Winter

My swap partner wanted a "Modern" Winter themed mug rug with icy blues/creams and pop of red.  I think that I've got it covered.  I'm sewing down the binding this afternoon.  Once that's done, only the embellishment remains.


This photo shows the twin mug rug to the one received by Fidissimus:


MR4 Winter (twin)


MR4.2 Fall

Once I realized that I could actually manage TWO mug rugs, I went to work on finishing one that I had put together over the summer (when I was studiously ignoring several of my UFOs.)  My 2nd swap partner had chosen Fall - the season.  This was lucky for me. That piece that I already had in the works could work perfectly for this theme.  I absolutely LOVE it when I can combine a new project with a bit of a UFO!!!

MR4 Fall (Made by Me!)

It's in the mail, making its way to Nyesara in Tasmania.  How COOL is that?!?!?!  I'll post a picture once it arrives.  (NOTE:  She got it and she loves it!)

Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Fall 2011 (Ravelry) UFO Club - The List

By now, my list is probably starting to look VERY familiar to you!  It hasn't changed much over the months.  I'm hoping to make more progress during this session.

The List:

1. Purple/Green Coin Quilt
2. The Margaret Mystery

The first two items on the list can be viewed in the following blog post:  http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2010/07/ufo-club-summer-2010-list.html

3. Crumb Quilt
4. Patriotic Improv Jacket
5. QE2 Goodbye Quilt.

Items 3 - 5 can be viewed at:  http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2010/10/ufo-club-fall-2010-list.html

6. Frog Legs & Caviar   http://www.flickr.com/photos/29726502@N04/5129432939/in/set-72157607969536568
7. "Inspired by..."  The Series  http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2011/03/by-set-quilted.html
8. Snow Star Swap  http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2011/03/by-set-quilted.html

9. MR4 Fall - COMPLETED photo to be posted after it's received.
10. MR4 Winter - COMPLETED photo will be posted after receipt.  http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2011/10/mr4-ravelry-mug-rug-swap.html

There are deadlines looming on the last two UFOs.  Obviously, they WILL get done.  Beyond that, who knows???  However, I am hoping for the best.

We'll see how it goes...

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Summer 2011 (Ravelry) UFO Club - The Results

Hooray!!! for the largest UFO Club to date.  Our 18 participants worked hard to complete the most projects yet.  Alas, we were TWO projects short of breaking the Club's Most Completed Projects record for a session.  Better luck next time!


Members (18):
thepoch 
fabriholic: 1 completed project 
andimc13: 1 completed project 
needleb: 2 completed projects 
fishandstitch: 2 completed projects 
basketcase9702: 1 completed project 
loisbemis: 2 completed projects 
KK454: 2 completed projects 
Jmoorecrafts: 3 completed projects 
teacherspet 
monicarose51: 2 completed projects 
rollacameron: 3 completed projects 
fidissimus: 1 completed project 
JanetMc: 2 completed projects 
Bonnyknits 
SunshineMom: 2 completed projects 
nyesara: 1 completed project 
joeyune: 2 completed projects
Session Totals: 15 members completed a total of 27 projects.

Congrats! to Jmoorecrafts and Rollacameron for each finishing THREE projects during the Summer 2011 UFO Club.  Thanks to you and our other 13 finishers for nearly breaking a Club record for completed projects in a single session.  And to our members who were unable to complete a project during this session,  we hope that you will come back to try again another time.

We had another outstanding session of The (Ravelry) UFO Club. Thanks to YOU for cheering us along!
Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, September 24, 2011

The MR3 Challenge made by Me

The MR3 made by Me by basketcasejoy
The MR3 made by Me, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
I just realized that you never got to see the MR3 made by me. Oops! Sorry about that.

What was the Challenge?

We (the Quilters Knitting group on Ravelry) have been doing a series of mug rug swaps. The Original Mug Rug Swap started off simply enough. The only "rule" was the size range of the finished products. The 2nd Chance Mug Rug Swap soon followed due to the fact that some members weren't able to participate in the first swap. One member suggested that we "up the ante" for the MR3 and make it a challenge. It was a popular idea so off we went (with each person choosing a challenge for the mug rug she was to receive!)

But, what was YOUR challenge?!

Oh, you want to hear about that, too? Well, my recipient specified her color preference would have to be bright warm colors (reds, yellows, pinks, oranges.) She stated that any theme would be fine. However, her challenge was that her mug rug would have to incorporate a block of some kind i.e., star, log cabin…whatever my preference. She loves all blocks!

Would you like to hear about the process?

I began by checking my stash of "orphan blocks" and found one that worked within the recipient's color palette. It was a Pinwheel block that I had found in a scrap bag that had been gifted to me by a friend. I used this to begin building from there. The plan was to build a Log Cabin block, but once the balance was thrown off, I decided to use that to accommodate my Snack & drink theme. As a reinforcement, I added the lettering, which (in my mind) was something fun and unexpected. Satisfied with the end result of the construction of the top...

The next question was:

HOW am I going to quilt this thing???

The answer to that question revealed itself as I was sitting on my bed. Of course! I've admired the quilting on my bed quilt for many years, but have never attempted replicating it... until now.

I wanted to post immediately after my mug rug was completed, but I didn't want it to be posted before my swap partner received it in the mail. Unfortunately, time went by and I didn't hear from my swap partner.

And I didn't hear from my swap partner... (and I didn't HEAR from my swap partner!!!)

I was beginning to think that the mug rug was actually LOST in the mail!!! (Not a prospect that appealed to me with all the work that went in to the making of this project. Just as I was about to begin working on a replacement, good news arrived. Finally, someone found a photo of my MR3 on the recipient's Flicker page and I (now) know that it arrived. Whew! What a relief!!! (Thanks, Joeyune!)

I really hope that Dragonknits is enjoying the MR3 that I made for her!

This little mug rug sort of morphed from its Log Cabin beginnings and became an off-center, log cabin leftover repository with uncharted free-motion quilting designs. It was fun to make and the colors were perfect for the recipient!

I was SO pleased:

1. That I was able to think of a creative solution to a piecing problem.
2. That the free-cut letters turned out well.
3. That I finally was inspired to try replicating the free motion quilting design that appears on my Millennium Star quilt (made by members of Capital Quilter's Guild in Raleigh, NC.)
4. That I have a wonderful support system of quilters in my local quilt bee (one of whom was able to provide the PERFECT binding fabric - so that I had NO excuse to go fabric shopping. Thanks, Needleb!!!)

Look for MR4, our Fall/Winter themed swap, coming around the middle of October. (It will be followed by MR5 at the beginning of 2012.)

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Sunday, September 18, 2011

The Girl's Got Class

Quilting 106 by basketcasejoy
Quilting 106, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Quilt class, that is!

Today, I attended a pet portrait class offered by m local quilt guild. Talk about setting outside one's comfort zone...

That's EXACTLY what I did!!!

It sounded SO interesting that I borrowed a photo of a neighbor's beloved pet. He is the sweetest dog that I've ever met and there's the most adorable pet photo I've seen, hanging on the wall of my neighbor's home. I just HAD to give this class a try.

You can see the photograph at the top of my picture. Beneath that, you can see the progress that I've made so far. If you look on the right side of the photo, you'll get a better idea of the process. It's sort of like paint-by-numbers for quilters!

The teacher, Aniko Feher of Detroit, Michigan, was very encouraging and quite helpful in making her students' photos come to life in fabric.

I'll post further progress, as it occurs.

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, September 10, 2011

"Big Block" #7

"Big Block" #7 by basketcasejoy
"Big Block" #7, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

"Crumb - y" Progress:

UFO Day today! I began with a stack of "2-patch" sections and added sashing to make 3 "4-patch" blocks. Once those were completed, I was able to sew them togther (with 1 more that I had finished another day.) I'm happy to have added "Big Block" #7 to my slowly growing stack of components for my Crumb Quilt.

One of these days, I will actually have a quilt top!!! Then comes the actual quilting...

Thursday, September 8, 2011

On the Inside...

Inside of Patriotic by basketcasejoy
Inside of Patriotic, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

of my Patriotic Jacket, you will find this fun fabric. The quilting that you see is a portion of the work that I completed at my quilt retreat.

Hard to believe that was TWO WEEKS ago!!!

I'm sad to say that I haven't gotten a whole lot of quilting done since then.

When's the NEXT retreat???

Thursday, August 18, 2011

MR3 Challenge (in use)

MR3 Challenge (in use) by basketcasejoy
MR3 Challenge (in use), a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Here's an "action" shot. :o)

Please note the computer had to sit a bit skewed so that you could get a good view of the mug rug.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

MR3 Challenge (Received)

MR3 Challenge by basketcasejoy
MR3 Challenge, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Hooray! My MR3 Challenge has arrived in the mail!!! The colors are perfect and the design blends right in with its surroundings.

Thank you, RainMommy!!!

Here is the full view of the MR3 Challenge mug rug that I received from RainMommy. My challenge concerned the size of the finished piece. She more than met the challenge!

The mug rug was meant to be a "place mat" of sorts for my net book. Why? We have glass top tables and my computer has missing "feet!" I didn't want to scratch the table.

I love Ravelry and all of my quilting friends there! Now, who's ready for MR4???

:o)

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Art Bee Challenge Fabric (Close-up)

Here's a close-up of the Art Bee Challenge fabric. It's a multi-colored batik print that can be used in many applications. (Preferably, is small doses, as looking at it makes me dizzy!)

"Quilt" Quilt

"Quilt" Quilt by basketcasejoy
"Quilt" Quilt, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

This 9" x 12" quilt began as part of my Journal Quilt series. Quilting friends were experimenting with stencils and painting with crayons.

Have YOU used this technique???

It takes a LOT of paper bags to iron out the wax! The end result is vibrant and fun. However, the project sat (unfinished) for many months.

My Art Bee's issue of a challenge brought this little quilt back to the forefront.

How?

I wanted to participate in the challenge, but I didn't want to start a NEW quilt! Hmm... what's a quilter to do???

Well, if you were me, you'd look around your studio for a UFO that would work with the "challenge fabric." (That's the inner border and the binding.) This little quilt fit the bill!

Don't you agree???

The colors are perfect and the busy little print is just "playful" enough to work for the border and binding.

As usual, the quilt could benefit from additional quilting, but for now...

It's DONE!!!

(I think you may have heard that statement before. It seems to be my motto.)

Saturday, July 30, 2011

MR3 Challenge - Complete

Quilting with a friend today.  I absolutely LOVE days like this!  Not only did I get some QUILTING done, but I actually FINISHED something!!!

WOW!  It feels GOOD to be able to make that announcement.

As you might have guessed (the title of the post being the give-away!) I completed my MR3 Challenge.  It's the latest installment of the Mug Rug Swap on the Quilters Knitting group on www.Ravelry.com and I beat the deadline by TWO WEEKS.  :o)

No photo to post at the moment, but I'll be sure to add one as soon as my swap partner receives her quilt.

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Sunday, July 24, 2011

It's Starting to Look a Lot Like a Jacket!

I completed the piecing on Thursday...and then we headed out of town for the weekend. I'm looking forward to getting busy with the quilting. (Hopefully, I'll have a day or two off work this week!)

This is the front panel of the jacket. It may look a bit strange in its unfinished state, however, there's still a slit to be cut down the center once the quilting is done. The binding fabric will add a little spark and I've got some plans for some embellishment,as well. PLUS... this is still in the "rough cut" stage.

Keep an open mind

It will all come together in the end.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Progress... On the Flip Side

Here's a shot of my Patriotic Improv Jacket when I finished sewing last night. I'd LOVE to say that it's ALL done tonight, but it's NOT!

Why not???

Well, as you can see, there are a LOT of pieces to put together!

Soon...

I've got the day off work tomorrow and I plan to make the most of it.  :o)

Wish me luck!

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Additional Patriotic Progress

The Mini-Retreat continued yesterday and this is what I accomplished. I'm VERY excited!

Monday, July 18, 2011

Patriotic Progress

Patriotic Progress by basketcasejoy
Patriotic Progress, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

I am SO excited! I've made some additional progress on a UFO.

My Patriotic Improv Jacket is coming along nicely. It’s a jacket of my own design and since it's July, I decided it was time to (FINALLY!) get moving on it.

I went to the Mini-Retreat with a bag of fabric strips and leftover blocks. With help from Knittingsuek, who came up for the Mini Retreat (and a few other friends)… placement of the majority of the blocks has been determined.

I might just come away with something that more closely resembles a quilted garment!

Now I just need to add filler pieces and start attaching it all to the sweatshirt...

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Mini - Retreat UFO Progress

Hello from NeedleB's quilting mini -retreat!

Yesterday, I spent all day with quilt-y friends and I'm headed back for more quilting FUN!

What's that?  Oh!  What have I gotten done???

The sweatshirt for my Patriotic Jacket UFO has been de-constructed.  The rows/columns of my Purple and Green Coin Quilt have been sewn together.  My inner border was attached shortly before midnight.  The outer borders remain.

Check back later for further progress.

Happy Quilting!

Saturday, July 9, 2011

UFO Club - Summer 2011 - The List

Yes.  It's UFO List time, again.  Where DOES the time go???  Some of you may recognize a number of items.  They've ALL been on prior UFO Lists!  I'm just doing my part to recycle.  :o)


The List:
  1. Rav Friendship Star Swap
  2. Circle of Friends
  3. Crumb Quilt
  4. “Quilt” Quilt
  5. Patriotic Improv Jacket
  6. QE2 Goodbye Quilt
And more of the list:

7.  Hollis’ Iris Garden
8.  Purple/Geen Coin Quilt
9.  The Margaret Mystery
10.  Circle Denim Quilt
11.  Teal, Turquoise, & Burgundy Twist (Donation)

And MORE quilts on for the list:

12.  Frog Legs & Caviar
13.  Calico Ric Rac
14.  Snow Stars Swap
15.  4-Patch Kaleidoscope
16.  Buckets of Friendship
17.  Ravelry Red Swap
Photos of quilts 7 - 17 can also be found in various posts here on my blog. Unfortunately, there are a number of different posts. Too many to link. Sorry!  Just have a look around and you'll spot them.
And ONE more for good measure:
18.  Inspired by… “The Series”

Watch for updates because I'm hoping to finish a number of these.  Wish me luck!

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Spring 2011 (Ravelry) UFO Club - The Results

What an amazing group of quilters we had for this session of the UFO Club!
There were 16 participants and we had the most completed projects, yet.  Congrats! to the members who completed one or more quilts and thank you to ALL members for your inspiration and encouragement.
Members (16):
needleb: 1 completed quilt
fishandstitch: 6 completed quilts
andimc13: 1 completed quilt
basketcase9702: 2 completed quilts
teacherspet: 2 completed quilts
SunshineMom: 2 completed quilts
thepoch: 7 completed quilts
Cindiknits: 2 completed quilt
monicarose51: 1 completed quilt
spyndragon
Barbknits: 2 completed quilts
criosa
Lucky13: 1 completed quilt
moore848: 1 completed quilt
snowquilter
JanetMc
Session Totals: 12 members completed 28 quilts!!!
Thanks for a GREAT session, everyone.  Special thanks to Fishandstitch (6) and Thepoch (7) for bringing this session's totals over the top.  Congrats! on your UFO success.  I hope that the members who weren't able to finish a project during this session were inspired by you and pleased with the progress that they were able to make.
Come back for more UFO fun next time!  Can you believe that it's my one year Blog-a-versary???  Hooray!!!  Thanks for making it a GREAT first year of blogging fun.

Saturday, June 18, 2011

2011 Dye Challenge

2011 Dye Challenge by basketcasejoy
2011 Dye Challenge, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
You might recall that I attended a Dye Workshop last month. Well, I accepted this year's Challenge issued by our project leader to create a quilted item using some of our hand-dyed fabrics.

I chose a special fabric to make something with before this month's meeting (which was this morning.)  Why was the fabric that I chose particularly appropriate?  The project leader had given it to me at the Dye Frenzy!

I added stars & waves quilting to a piece of fabric that I double dipped. It was a technique that I hadn't tried before.  Unfortunately, this piece was in one of the later dye baths and the colors are more muted than I would have liked.

It seems to need something else.  I'm not 100% sure what, but I'm thinking it needs to be over-dyed, painted, or beaded.  Only time will tell...

Maybe next year... For now, it seems perfectly happy hanging in my kitchen for the summer!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

3 More "Big" Blocks

3 More "Big" Blocks by basketcasejoy
3 More "Big" Blocks, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Of course, I'm NOT saying that's all that I have left to make! That's just the number of "Big" Blocks that I finished up today.

That makes six!!! (ONLY 10 more to go, if I'm remembering correctly.)

They are constructed in giant 4-Patch blocks. Each of those are composed of 4 individual Crumb blocks with black sashing in between.

It's QUITE a process! (But I love it!)

Monday, June 6, 2011

Picture Posting Test

In the past, I have always either clicked on the "Insert Image" icon or posted about a particular picture directly from Flickr.  Unfortunately, I've been having some trouble lately.  I received this message:


"Your Blogger credentials are invalid. Perhaps try removing and re-connecting this Blogger account." 


when trying to post from the photo and another when trying to click the "Insert Image" icon.  It's been EXTREMELY frustrating, to say the least!


Fortunately, a Ravelry friend made a suggestion that I hadn't considered.  Hopefully, her method will work!  Here's the test post:

Thrifty goodness...

Converse Dots - The Top

I found these Converse sneakers while searching for "Cowboy" attire for DS2.  His Middle School band went country for the final concert of the year.  Could YOU have passed them up?  They are SO cute!  At a cost of only $4, I couldn't leave them.  PLUS... They were just my size!

It appears that the Raveller's method worked.  Thanks, GirlReaction!  Now back to your (not so) regularly scheduled quilting posts.

Until then...
Happy Trails

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Crumb-y Progress


In the last week, I've gone from this stack of individual Crumb blocks - to two blocks, joined with sashing to the next picture which shows...


~ this (beautifully decorated) array of 4-Patch blocks.  (Thanks, DS1 for the added "foot-age"!)  LOL


And now, I'm moving toward visions of a completed quilt top.  This last photo represents 2 of the 3 "big" blocks that I have completed.  In retrospect, I probably should have just made BIGGER blocks!  Oh, well... Off to stitch up some more "big" blocks!!!

Ready? Set. Sew!

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Dye Frenzy 2011 - The Results

HERE'S THE PICTURE PROOF!!!

My local quilt bee had SO much fun at last year's workshop that we decided to make it an annual event.  Some of you have been waiting to see the results of this year's Dye Frenzy that was held on May 21st.  After two weeks, this photo shows a collage of my efforts.



If you recall the outcome of last year's workshop, you'll notice that we tried a few new colors this time around.  I focused my efforts on using the "new" colors.  I'm fairly pleased with the results and will be happy to add these new creations to my personal hand-dyed collection.  I used Bahama Blue, China Blue, Tulip Red, brown and black (along with several of the choices from last year.)

I tried some new techniques that produced the following:

A fabric that looked like it had bird tracks along the edges, one that resembled barbed wire, and another that is shaded like an American Flag.  The workshop leader, once again, issued a challenge for us to create something from our hand-dyes.  Wonder of wonders, I think I know what I'd like to make!  Stay tuned...

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Monday, May 30, 2011

Think! (Completed)

Think! (Completed) by basketcasejoy
Think! (Completed), a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
First off, I'd like to say THANK YOU to everyone who has served in the military (or had a loved one who has served.)  THINK! could just as easily have been created to remind you to remember those who have survived, been wounded, or have lost their lives serving their country.  That's what Memorial Day is all about!

Next, I'd like to apologize to my readers.  Somehow, I have neglected sharing a project that is almost a month old!

Teacher Appreciation Week is a BIG thing at DS1's school.  Each year the PTSO collects items or monetary donations for gift baskets that teachers have a chance to win. This year, I decided to ask if they would like for me to make a quilted gift to be included in a basket.

The response?

"That would be GREAT!!!"

Being on a mug rug kick lately, that was my choice for the quilted item. I found a fabric (in my scrap bin) that wasn't too "girl-y" and went from there.

What's next???

Choose a design that would be appropriate for a teacher's desk.

"Shut Up!" would NOT be a good choice. That lovely suggestion actually came from a teacher friend of mine. LOL

I opted for a design that a teacher would be proud for students to see. It's a little quilt that could even be posted on a bulletin board. It's what EVERY teacher wants EVERY student to do on a daily basis...

THINK!!!

I did the letters with free-form piecing using a method that I learned in a workshop with Bonnie Hunter of www.quiltville.com. She learned the method from her friend Tonya Ricucci, The UnRuly Quilter of http://www.lazygalquilting.blogspot.com/. I'm pretty sure that Bonnie is no longer teaching these letters as part of her class because the method can now be found in Tonya's new book titled Word Play Quilts.

I can't WAIT to get my copy!

Friday, May 27, 2011

"Quilt" quilt (layered)

"Quilt" quilt (layered) by basketcasejoy
"Quilt" quilt (layered), a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

I've had this small art quilt project on the sewing table (untouched) for nearly a year. Yesterday, I applied the borders and layered the quilt!

What's next??? The quilting and...

I had a stoke of brilliance while looking at the quilt top. Wanna hear about it???

My art bee has a challenge that was issued at out April meeting. The quilt is due in August. I had NO idea what I would do, until...

(See the photo.)

More information will follow upon completion of the quilt.

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Dye Frenzy 2011

Whew!  I'm exhausted!!!

Today was the 2011 Dye Frenzy for my local quilt bee.  Just like last year, it was back-breaking work!  Just like last year, a great time was had by all!

I published a list of all of the "leftover" colors that were available and new colors were purchased to fill in.  This year I focused on using the six "new" colors.  I'm fairly happy with the results and will be happy to add these new creations to my personal hand-dyed collection.

Next year, I'd like to focus on doing more elaborate dyeing techniques.  One of my friends was extremely successful in dipping her fabric into multiple dye baths.  Another experienced good results using more traditional "tie-dye" techniques.

To refresh my memory, the leftover colors were  Tropical Green, Sunflower Yellow, Flamingo Pink, Amazon Green, Intense Violet, Ocean Blue.  The new colors were Bahama Blue, Tulip Red, China Blue, Brown, Black and one other color (that I can't seem to recall.)

Well, off to do another rinse on my fabrics...

AND...start thinking about the challenge that was issued by the workshop leader!  Hmm... what to make???

Hopefully, I'll be able to post pictures soon!

Until then,
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, May 14, 2011

The King Sized Wall Hanging - Completed!!!

After a day of quilting, I am happy to report that I have just completed another project for the Spring 2011 (Ravelry) UFO Club. I sewed down the sleeve, finished the binding and added more quilting to my 30" x 30" square quiltThe King Sized Wall Hanging. Although, I'm sure the judges would say, "Could benefit from additional quilting."

What do I say???

TOO bad!!! It's finished and I'm happy with it (for now.) I can always add more quilting later. It's not likely, but I **could** if I decided that I would be happier with additional quilting.

This quilt began it's life more than five years ago as the leftovers from the leftovers of a King Sized quilt that I made for a friend. I have now completed FIVE quilts (of various sizes) from the fabrics purchased for that ONE quilt. And there are STILL more scraps remaining!

Hmm... I wonder what I'll make next???

Ready? Set. Sew!

Sunday, May 8, 2011

My 1st Finish of the Spring 2011 UFO Club!!!

Quilting 077 by basketcasejoy
Quilting 077, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
My "New" Batik Jacket is FINALLY finished!!!

This began as a stack of fabric (as quilt projects often do) and a de-constructed sweatshirt...more than THREE YEARS AGO!!!  I started it to replace the jacket that I gave a friend when we moved away.  It was a bit big for me, but it fit her perfectly and she LOVED it, commenting on it every time I wore it.  (The look on her face was priceless when she realized that it was really hers!) Anyway, I bought fabric to make myself another jacket.  I remember that stack of fabric and that sweatshirt sitting on my sewing table BEFORE the "big move" to my new studio.

That move took place two years ago! This project has been included in SEVERAL sessions of the (Ravelry) UFO Club. I am SO happy to have it done!

Who knows why it took so long to get around to working on it, because it was a lot of fun to quilt and I actually quilted it in one day...

And then it sat for weeks before I decided to sew the pieces together. (And another number of weeks before I got around to applying the binding!)

Once the binding was applied, I worked on it on and off for about a week and completed it this afternoon on the way back from Mother's Day lunch with my MIL.

Hooray! A new jacket that will be PERFECT... for NEXT winter!

Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, May 7, 2011

2nd Chance Mug Rug Swap

2nd Chance Mug Rug Swap by basketcasejoy
2nd Chance Mug Rug Swap, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
The fun continues!

This is the little quilt that I made for Oceansong in the 2nd Chance (Ravelry) Mug Rug Swap. Her preferences stated that she likes "shades of green, brown, black, magenta, and so many more." I chose colors hoping that I would get it right.

I'm STILL not sure that I got the colors right, but she likes her mug rug. She even commented on in another group. Wondering who the lucky recipient would be... She said that she had a huge, happy smile on her face when she found out that it was HER!

Hooray! Nothing better than making someone's day.  (Now MY face has a huge, happy smile, too!)  And another smile and a big Thank You to Sew Fantastic's simple Mug Rug Tutorial http://sew-fantastic.blogspot.com/2011/03/mug-rug-tutorial-scrappy-colorblock.html, I based my design on your technique.

Happy Quilting!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

(Ravelry) Mug Rug Swap - Revealed

As I said in my last post, the mug rug went out in the mail last week.  It arrived at Tortolachick's house today.  Fortunately, she is VERY happy with how it turned out.  Unfortunately, she thinks it's so pretty that she's afraid to USE it!  I told her not to be afraid... it can go through the wash.

Here's the picture:

http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2011/04/life-beach.html

Yes, it looks familiar because I blogged about it when I finished the little quilt.  I kept it for Show and Tell at the Quilt Guild meeting.  That's OK!  I still beat the due date by more than a month!!!  :o)

Saturday, April 23, 2011

(Ravelry) Mug Rug Swap

Several months ago, two of my friends on Ravelry and I discussed the possibility of having a mug rug swap.  We never got around to it.  Time went by and mug rugs gained in popularity so another friend decided to host a swap.  This time I was ready to participate.  After all, how much time would it actually take to make a tiny quilt?

Mug Rug???  What's a mug rug?  It's an over-sized quilted coaster big enough to hold a cup or glass of your favorite beverage and a snack.  The actual size (and shape varies.)  The majority are about 7" x 8", but some are as big as 8" x 10".

You may be wondering why you couldn't just make your own.  Well, you CAN, but it wouldn't be nearly as much fun!  The mug rug that I made for ____________ went out in the mail this week.  I'm anxious to find out if my interpretation of her theme was anything like what she was hoping to get.  (She asked for tropical and I went beach-y.)

I'll add a photo when the mug rug has arrived at its new home.

Until then...
Ready? Set. Sew!

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Life's a Beach

Life's a Beach by basketcasejoy
Life's a Beach, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.
Dig in your stash. You never know where it will take you!

This week... my stash took me back to the beach. Memories of friends, family, and fun went into the making of this quilt. Well, that and a few bright fabrics from the "kid print" drawer in my studio.

Along with memories of beach vacations, this quilt took me on another trip down memory lane. This one is a quilting memory because the central fabric was a past "Quilts for Kids" challenge fabric. It's too bad that I can't bring up a mental image of the actual quilt that I made, but the scraps are proof that I made one!

If you look at this quilt just right... you might even be able to see the sand drawing of a silly face with its tongue hanging out.  :o)

Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Friday, April 8, 2011

Snippets of a Challenge

Snippets of a Challenge by basketcasejoy
Snippets of a Challenge, a photo by basketcasejoy on Flickr.

Hi there! I thought I'd take ONE photo to show ALL of the previously unpictured projects for the Spring 2011 UFO Club.

So... What's the challenge???

The challenge will be completing them by the June 30th deadline! (My track record hasn't been the greatest since the beginning of the year.)

For this session, I've narrowed my focus and set some realistic goals. Most of the projects that I've chosen are REALLY close to being done! Between that and the fact that I submitted fewer selections, I'm hoping to be able to check off a number of the projects on the list.

Wish me luck!

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

UFO Club - Spring 2011 - The List

Sing-ups are going on over at Ravelry.com through April 7, 2011.  We've got a big crowd for this session.  Hopefully, we will all be inspired to finish LOTS of quilts!
Here’s my list:
1.King Sized Wall Hanging (needs binding and more quilting) Completed 5/14/11

2.”New” Batik Jacket (needs binding) Completed 5/8/11

3.Patriotic Jacket (soup to nuts - I only have a few blocks done.) 
4.Calico Ric Rac Quilt (still a top) 

5.”Quilt” Mini Quilt (still a top)
It might look rather familiar.  These are ALL leftover from previous challenges, but I’m hoping they’ve hibernated long enough.
I've got one other short-term UFO that I'd really like to see completed.  It's been sitting for a month, so I hope you'll agree that it qualifies for the challenge.
6.  "Inspired by..." - The Series
I'm trying to keep it simple this time.  By narrowing my focus, I'm hoping that I will actually finishing the selected projects.  Flickr is not cooperating so the rest of the photos can be viewed on old UFO Challenge "List" pages.  (Blogged a photo at http://thejoyfulquilter.blogspot.com/2011/04/snippets-of-challenge.html)
Ready? Set. Sew!

Friday, April 1, 2011

UFO Club - Winter 2011 - The Results

For those of you following the progress of my UFO Club, there were 11 members participating in this session.  Congrats! to the members who completed one or more quilts and thank you to ALL members for playing along.
Members (11) : 
teacherspet: 2 quilts completed
basketcase9702: 1 quilt completed
SunshineMom: 2 quilts completed
fidissimus
fishandstitch: 2 quilts completed
spyndragon
yaners: 3 quilts completed
snowquilter: 1 quilt completed
criosa: 1 quilt completed
monicarose51: 2 completed quilts
knitwish: 2 completed quilts
Session Results: 9 quilters completed 16 quilts.
Come back next session for more UFO Fun!

Sunday, March 6, 2011

"Inspired by...", The Set (Quilted)

I thought that I would check in to let you know what I've been working on this week. Besides knitting, shopping, volunteering, and my "real" job...

I made a point to spend more time in my studio this week. The three small quilts shown in the photo are the result of my efforts.

They may even be FINISHED by the next time that I post!

Until then...

Ready? Set. Sew!

Monday, February 28, 2011

"Inspired by" - The Series

I made the most of a weekend at home. My friends were off to the Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival (the Hampton Roads Show), but I decided to stay home this time and work in my studio. My Circle Challenge for the Art Bee was due last week, but I hadn't even started it.. I hate to admit it, but I’ve known about it since December!

Why wait? Well, I wasn’t feeling inspired. :o(

Based on a piece of art by Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes, I drew up my design weeks ago, but I didn’t do anything with it…until this past Saturday! (If I missed the quilt show, I was going to have something to show for it!!!) The challenge deadline had come and gone. Now my mind was clear enough to begin what ended up as a series of quilts:

I began by making one the size of my drawing (done on a napkin!) and stepped it up a little bigger (and then a little bigger than that.)  My pieces measure 2" x 3", 3.5" x 5.5", and 8.5” x 11".  Basically, that's a business card, an index card, and a piece of notebook/computer paper!  They were done with fusible applique, but I’m not sure where I want to go from here. Any suggestions?

To see the inspiration piece, look for:

Beatriz Milhazes
Popeye, 2008
Acrylic on canvas
78 3/8” x 54 3/4”

Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

First Completed UFO of 2011!!!

Black, White and Red All Over is my first completed quilt for the Winter 2011 UFO Club. This quilt started (back in early 2010) as a result of some friends getting together to try fabric weaving. I had done weavings with straight strips and no fusible product before.(The photo is broken.  Click on the photo box and it will take you to the picture page.)

Question: What should I do???

Answer: Try something NEW!!!

After adding fusible webbing to the back of my fabric selections, I cut curved strips, and wove them together to create a background. Well, that was fun...but, what now?

Next came the curvy red border treatment. (Also applied with fusible.) However, that left the center of the piece blank. NOT good! In keeping with the artsy feel of the piece, I simply added a couple of off-kilter red X's. What do YOU think?

Well, I liked the effect and it certainly wasn't something that I had done (or seen) before! :o)

Done, but not completed. The question that remained was... how should I quilt it? It was a question that went unanswered for MONTHS. And that answer came just three days ago when my quilt buddy came over to sew with me and her answer was... Don't!

The only "quilting" ended up being the stitching lines used to hold down the red bits. Those lines go through all three layers and are, therefore, quilting. (And it's just enough!) Unfortunately, I needed the quilt to be totally finished by Monday night because my Art Bee WAS the program for the quilt guild!

There was no time to add a traditional binding AND have time to sew it down by the next night (Plus, I couldn't decide what color binding I wanted to use.) What's a quilter to do?! SERGE!!!

I took a hint from a fellow quilter on Ravelry. She mentioned that she no longer attaches a  binding to any of her quilts. She chooses to serge them because she would rather them be done this way, than have them sitting around waiting to be bound. (The binding is her least favorite part of quilting!)

So, a non-traditional finishing technique was used for a change of pace on this little 9" x 12" quilt. TIP: Don't forget to put a dab of anti-fray product on the corners so that your "binding" won't come un-sewn!

Another completed project should be right around the corner.  I'll be sure to post when I'm done with it.

Until then...
Happy Quilting!

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Zentangle


Zentangle
Originally uploaded by basketcasejoy
What IS a zentangle?  At its most basic, a zentangle is a doodle!

According to http://www.zentangle.com/index.php it is described as an "easy to learn method of creating beautiful images from repetative patterns." The website also goes on to explain that it's a meditational artform, you enter a zen-like state while working on them. My favorite statement was this, "You always succeed when creating a zentangle because you always create a pattern." (Which is a lucky thing for me because to say that art was NOT my strongest subject would be an understatement!)

Some of the zentangles are EXTREMELY complex. While, perhaps not the MOST basic designs, I did choose a relatively simple design that I thought would translate well into the quilt that I was planning.

My quilt started out as a quick sketch of a zentangle found on Google images. While zentangles are traditionally 3.5" square and can be created in about 15 minutes, my quilt stretched the original design into a 10.5" x 15" rectangle (and took about an hour to create.)  Why was my quilt rectangular? Because my "square" started out as an 8.5" x 11" sheet of paper that I folded in half and then folded it in half again. (And I apparently skipped the part about the "traditional" size!)

Oh, well...there's something to be said for "artistic license!" (So much so that this quilt is my Circle Challenge for my Art Quilt Bee, even though there was a totally different inspiration piece.)

Until next time...
Happy Quilting!

Friday, February 18, 2011

A New Look for The Joyful Quilter

Tonight I was feeling brave (and no one was here to distract me.)  So...you may notice that things look a little brighter around here.  What do you think?  Feel free to comment on the new look and the gadgets that have been added...or let me know if you have suggestions for improvement.

What happened???

My coffee shop friend Erin over at www.CreativeCountryLiving.blogspot.com was writing a post and I commented on how nice her blog looked.  (It sounded more like, "How did you GET all those things to show up over along the side of the page?)  She was kind enough to share some tips about Blogger.  Thanks, Erin!

How did I do?

Monday, February 14, 2011

4-Patch Kaleidoscope


4-Patch Kaleidoscope
Originally uploaded by basketcasejoy
Winter UFO Club Featured UFO # 7

Question: Should this, my newest UFO, become a quilt before all the others waiting in line???

Answer: No, but it might become a quilt top! :o)

Piecing is SO much more fun than the actual quilting part!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Frog Legs and Caviar


Frog Legs and Caviar
Originally uploaded by basketcasejoy
Winter UFO Club Featured UFO # 6

Question: Will the intended recipient get this in time for his 1st birthday???

Answer: Let's HOPE so because it was supposed to be his baby quilt!

I've started working on the back for this quilt and I've got a Sew Date scheduled for this weekend. This could really happen!

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Buckets of Friendship


Buckets of Friendship
Originally uploaded by basketcasejoy
Winter UFO Club Featured UFO #5

Question: Can this basket of blocks REALLY be turned into a quilt in 3 months time???

Answer: If I work really hard, I'm sure that it could!

Unfortunately, at this point, only TWO months remain in the Winter session of the UFO Club... and I have yet to touch the project.

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Ravelry Red Swap


Ravelry Red Swap
Originally uploaded by basketcasejoy
Winter UFO Club Featured UFO #4

Question: Where are the OTHER blocks???

Answer: I have NO idea!!!

When I added this to my UFO List, I thought I had all the pieces together. Apparently, NOT!!! Oh, well...there's always next session. LOL