And Sew It Goes

Tag: Creative Inspiration

  • What is a Stitch Worth?

    Last week I spent a bit of time drooling over sewing machines. Not my own of course, but the machines in the fabric store that has many models with a variety of bells and whistles. There are the basic machines that sew. Imagine that? Then there are the next-step-up machines that are electronic and pre-programmed…

  • On the Road Again

    Each time I travel to Wisconsin one of the stops I have to make if I am anywhere near Milwaukee is at the Wisconsin Museum of Quilt and Fiber Arts. This little museum is a must see and worth going out of your way for. I first learned about the museum from the recommendation of…

  • Surrender to Creativity

    “The creative process is a process of surrender, not control.” Julia Cameron Today I veered from a plan I made a while ago. I planned to work on a wall hanging that consisted of circles. You may have read about it here or on my instagram page. Something happened on the way to choosing fabrics…

  • Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

    As I prepare for a road trip, I am in a quandary. What shall I bring? Not the clothing or snacks, but what will I bring to ‘do’ when traveling?  I’m a reader. Kindle loaded. Check! I’m a curious learner. Podcast queue- Ready to go!  I’m a maker, a creator. Here is where the problems…

  • Are Directions Necessary?

    I have found that directions are ‘nice to have,’ but not a necessity. A general direction is helpful. Are we headed east or west? Do you want to make chicken or pasta for dinner? Do you even want to make dinner?   I feel the same way about sewing. What colors do I want to use?…

  • Simple Pleasures

    If you enjoy a favorite drink at a local coffee shop, or an item at your favorite restaurant then you know the feeling I have when I find the perfect fabric. It is amazing. That first look. The way it feels, drapes, blends with other fabrics in my stash or with the fabrics I’m going…

  • Babies

    One of the most common reasons to sew a quilt is to welcome a new baby. As we prepared for a new addition to our family, I considered how I might share a quilt that parents and baby alike would enjoy. This particular branch of the family has a ‘thing’ for giraffes. So, I thought…

  • Lessons Learned

    After returning from the Gee’s Bend Quilting Retreat in late March, I was excited about the possibilities ahead. I imagined quilts made with methods I had never tried before and the fun that I could have. The one piece of quilting advice I keep thinking about is ‘don’t think.’ Easier said than done! That is…

  • Gee’s Bend Quilting Retreat: Day Two

    Quilters love to quilt. You can feel it in the room. Watching them design quilts blocks and figure out next steps, is nothing short of inspiring.  I’ve made a few blocks, none with a purpose beyond practicing sewing quilting blocks in the tradition of Gee’s Bend quilts.  I’ve cut fabric into squares and strips. Gathered…

  • Gee’s Bend Here I Come

    As I’ve returned to sewing and quilting I’ve spent time imagining what might lie ahead. Some things have gone according to plan, other times I’ve been surprised.  I know I can  sew and follow a pattern. I’ve got that hands down. I love to learn and what is most exciting is learning something new. I…