And Sew It Goes

Tag: quilting

  • Practice Does Not Always Make Perfect

    Have you ever practiced something, thinking you had it down, only to find it didn’t work when you needed it most? Circles are doing that to me at this very moment.  I bought circle templates and even read the directions. I practiced making a couple of circles and had amazing results. Now, when I need…

  • 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…

  • 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?…

  • 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 Three

    The final day of the Gee’s Bend Quilting Retreat was a beehive of activity. It was filled with last minute additions, finishing touches- hand and machine quilting-, and new projects being started even though time was running out.  ‘Show and Tell’  was a memorable part of the last day. It was a feast for the…

  • 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…

  • Quilts Are Historical Documents

    “Quilts are historical documents. They tell stories that were never written down.”      ~Bisa Butler The Safety Patrol, Bisa Butler Women’s voices are often quieted or brushed aside. This has been true throughout history. Yet women, resilient and determined, have always found ways to be heard—through song, poetry, literature, protest, painting, sewing, and other forms of…