Quilts4Julie

SNOW (SEW) DAYS!

2012-01-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

If you live anywhere in the Seattle area, you know that last week was a snow week.

If you don't live in this area, you probably think we are 'snow wimps'.

You might think that, until you try driving around in it!

I live 7 blocks down a hill. It was plowed on the 6th day of the storm. My dead end street was never plowed. So, as long as the power was on, I stayed home and did a little sewing!

I decided it was a perfect time to work on my Year of Schnibbles quilt. Full House. I selected 2 charm packs from Benertex' Sweet Shoppe, Calico Candies. Oh, these fabrics make me happy!!

I love a 'bright pastel'. It might be a term I made up, but it makes me happy-so I'm using it!

One sweet little house finished!

Once I had the quilt top done, I was still snowed in. I am not a machine quilter. Just sayin'.

But, this seemed like a manageable task. Love my Bendable Bright Light!

TA DA! Just look at those Sinkin' Cute houses! They remind me of Gum Drops. And, my signature 'Schwerve' quilting around the border!

And, I love my Serpentine stitch! I want to live in this neighborhood!

Several of the ladies in the shop are making this cutie pie. Kay finished hers during the storm, also. She used Moda's Hideaway. So adorable! I want to make another!

Then the power went off. For FOUR days. I have lost a little momentum, but I have a game plan! J

SNOW STORM

2012-01-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

This is what it looked like on my way to the shop today.

The parking lot has 6" of snow .

I am going home to sew! I hope you are doing the same.

The shop is closed today, check back for tomorrow's forecast! J

FULL HOUSE-ANOTHER YEAR OF SCHNIBBLES

2012-01-02T12:51:00.000-08:00

Did you play along a couple of years ago when

A quilting Life and Pink Pincushion

held a year long Schinbbles extravaganza? I must admit, I did not. But, I am planning on playing this year.

Hopefully, some of you will play along with me!

This years first pattern is Full House.

I am a sucker for house quilts, and this one is Stinkin' Cute! It is 31"x36", the perfect size, don't you think?

So, here is how you play the game. Each month the pattern will be posted on A Quilting life, and Pink Pincushion's Blogs. They are all patterns designed my Carrie Nelson, from Miss Rosie's Quilt Co. A Schnibbles Pattern. If you haven't caught the Schnibbles Fever, it is about time you did.

The darling little patterns just beg to go home with you. And, I don't think you can make just one!

So, start off with one, and maybe by the end of the year you will have 12!

Sounds like a Quilt-O-Rama to me! J

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

I want to wish all of you a Happy New Year!

2011 has been a great year for me, and I have enjoyed sharing it with you on my

little blog. I love when you comment or stop by the shop encouraging me to continue.

I hope your year is filled with all that you can dream of!

Mine will include my wonderful family, my wonderful shop family, my favorite customers,

sewing, creating, sharing and dreaming.

Thank you so much for stopping by once in a while to see what I am up to!

Happy 2012! J

NEW YEAR SALE

2011-12-30T12:12:00.000-08:00

I THOUGHT I SHOULD TAKE A MOMENT TODAY TO REMIND YOU OF OUR ANNUAL NEW YEAR'S SALE. IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR.

IT'S CRAZY, IT'S FUN

20% OFF ALL REGULAR PRICED FABRIC

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1ST 2012

11-4

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!

JULIE AND THE KEEPSAKE COTTAGE STAFF

pre cut fabrics not included in the sale

WINTER WONDERLAND, OOPS!

2011-12-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

My last blog post was all about one of my FAVORITE quilts. Winter Wonderland. I said it was a pattern by Bunny Hill. I love Bunny Hill Designs, Anne Sutton is so sweet and talented.

However, Winter Wonderland was designed by SUPER Talented and wonderful, Meg Hawkey, of CRABAPPLE HILL DESIGNS

Blame it on too many Eggnog Latte's.

Thanks to Jan, one of Meg's talented stitcher's, for ~~calling me out~~ catching this flub of mine!!

I think anyone who puts Hill in their design name must be, sweet, charming and of course TALENTED! J

WINTER WONDERLAND

2011-12-22T14:11:00.000-08:00

I love this quilt. It is not a new pattern, it has been out a few years. But, it really is a classic Winter Quilt. I have had the pattern and the background fabric in my 'to do' ~~pile~~ list for years. I have seen several versions. One customer stitched sequins all over, to give a sparkly look of snow. Awesome!

Several customers have made it in blues. Really a terrific winter look.

Today, I saw this version on the world wide web.

OMG, I really love this. Could this be a project in 2012? It would definitely be Christmas, not just winter. However, I really like the red and green border. A lot. Maybe this project has aged, just enough, for me to begin!

The pattern is Winter Wonderland by Bunny Hill Designs here. We carry the pattern all year, it's not just for winter! J

SNOWFLAKES

2011-12-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

I remember my classroom windows covered with paper snowflakes. I loved making them. I don't think you could make one like this with those little snub nosed scissors, however!

Maybe that is what attracts me to Hawaiian quilts.

Today, I have been ~~reading blogs,~~ working in the office. I came across Mary Lou Weidman's blog here. She introduced me to a whole new kind of snowflake! A digital one. I am not very good at it, I need my 18 year old nephew to help me. But, try it out here, it is super fun! J

AN EARLY CHRISTMAS DELIVERY

2011-12-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

How many times have I said "I love my job?" Today was another day when I was reminded of that.

A delivery came a couple of days ago. I haven't been in the shop much, so I hadn't opened it, until this morning.

The box was from MODA. It was totally flat.

Inside was a shinny, red, cutting mat.

As I pulled it out of the box, and then out of the plastic covering. My heart skipped a beat!

Take a closer look.

Can you stand it? I know I can't. OH MY GOSH!! My very own Red, Christmas, Moda, Cutting Mat! Life doesn't not get any better than this.

A Giant Happy Holiday Hug to all of my buddies at Moda. Once again, you have proven, owning a Quilt Shop is the BEST J.O.B. EVER!!

Jenny

2011-12-12T15:37:00.000-08:00

One of my customers, and a wonderful longarmer, has been working on a new ruler for curves, and patterns to go along with the ruler.

She is launching her ruler on her website http://sewkindofwonderful.blogspot.com/. Go on over, and check out the wonderful designs she has come up. Such a clever young woman. She makes me feel like I could do a curvy quilt!

Congratulations Jenny!!

WEEKEND SEWING

2011-11-28T14:15:00.001-08:00

This weekend I did a little sewing, nothing major. But, it was SEWING!

I wanted a little hand project, so I snooped around and found a cute little tin, filled with yo-yo's.

Why was this not finished?

They were made from a charm pack. I had used an older Black Bird Designs collection, Madeira.

OMG, YO YO LOVE!

We were going to go to my father and his sweet little wife's house for Thanksgiving. However, my DH wasn't feeling well, so we stayed home. Ruthie has Fanciscan Desert Rose dishes. I made these little napkins for her. They are on there way to her, via the USPS. Hopefully, she will be able to enjoy them when her little lady friends come for cards or Bunco.

I made these napkins from a different pattern. They are folded differently, making them tall and skinny. Fun for the holidays!

Then, I worked on my Cotton Club!! I made 2 blocks yesterday, while watching a Chick Flick.

My, Oh, MY they are stinkin' cute!

Block 7

Block 8.

Maybe this afternoon I can make block 9. 16 1/2 square triangles, I am not afraid!

THANKSGIVING FRIDAY

2011-11-25T15:55:00.000-08:00

I want to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving Friday! Isn't that much nicer than Black Friday? This year there was more reports of violence in the Big Box Stores. People pushing, fighting and even spaying Pepper Spray, to get the best bargain.

I like my little shop. I want it to be a nice place to visit. I want people to feel happy when they arrive, and satisfied when they leave.

American Express has used their Shop Small ad campaign again, for the second year. I love the idea of shopping in stores where they know me, or know my family. My father has purchased flowers from the same florist for over 15 years. They knew my mom, helped with her funeral, did his wedding flowers 8 years ago, and make table arrangements for me each time Daddy and Ruthie come to visit.

I like to eat in places that know me. If I order something different at Papa's Place or the Village Bean, they check to be sure I want to make a switch. At our local Mexican restaurant, my Husband tells the waitress to 'just bring me something". There is a sense of friendship and trust in places like that.

As a small business owner, I love knowing my customers. I think of you when I am shopping for the store. Who likes a certain author or fabric designer. What kind of Block of the Month will my Saturday Girls like. It's all about being a small business.

I hope you will keep this in mind as you are shopping and dining out this Holiday Season. Small business is the cornerstone of our neighborhoods. Support them, by Shopping Small!

COTTON CLUB

2011-11-17T15:38:00.000-08:00

In September I had high hopes of getting a great head start on my Cotton Club Block of the Month sample.

I love the colors, the adorable 5" blocks and the setting. 45 blocks in all. 5 the first month, and then 4 per month for the next 10 months. Seems very do-able.

I got off to a great start. I completed 4 blocks one Sunday afternoon. Each one measured the exact 5 1/2" it was supposed to. They were so cute. I was in Quilt Love.

Then, I am not sure exactly what happened. There was a beautiful wedding in October. A stunning bride and a handsome groom. I was a little busy with that. There was some sewing involved, and entertaining.

I do remember a stinkin' cold near the end of October. Then, there was Quilt Market. Six days in Quilt Heaven, with my 'Peeps'. I remember walking into the shop on November 1st, and realizing that there was not 1 Christmas sample in the shop. Not One!! So, off to the ~~-factory-~~ sewing room I went. I made 2 table runners, a child's Christmas Monkey quilt, a wall hanging and a tree skirt. I believe that was last week.

This week, I am back in love with my Cotton Club project!

These are the Original Fab Four. Sweet, don't you think?

Block number 5. I am having fun now!

Block 6. Now we are doing 1/2 square triangles, and fussy cutting. YIPPEE!!

I can't tell you how fun it is to work on something so small, and precise. I feel all Giddy inside.

A Quilt Crush, if you will.

I can't wait to get home and start block 7.

Is anyone else sewing along? J

My Boy, Cameron

2011-11-14T14:56:00.000-08:00

I am sure many of you communicate with your children via text message. My DH and I realized a few years ago, the boys would answer a text, long before they would answer their phones. I am sure if you are out with your buddies, the last thing you want to do is have your Mama being a nagamuffin on the phone!

Cameron has a quick smile and a huge heart. A couple of weeks ago, he was on a little adventure. He and his buddy Joe were on a road trip. Driving from Seattle to LA, with a few stops along the way. First stop, Papa and Grama Ruthie's house.

After a couple of meals and a sleep over, the boys were on their way. It took them several days to get to central California, but they were good about checking in. Just because they are as tall as adults, they are still my boys!

About a week into their trip, I received a picture text from Cameron. He found a book in a restaurant parking lot, and thought I might like it.

Yesterday, it arrived in the mail! A 1970 edition of Better Homes and Gardens Sewing Book. A wonderfully illustrated book with lots of practical advise about sewing. Some of you learned to sew from this manual. It is in a 3 ring binder, which is such a good idea! Why don't they do that anymore? The section on Sewing for the Home, has window treatments, how to make a slip cover for your sofa, a bed skirt-even a canopy. Not one mention of a quilt, table runner, wall hanging, all of the things we are sewing today. That reminds me that 1976 was the rebirth of quilting. I feel so lucky to be sewing during a time, when we are doing it because we love it. Not because we have to.

And, that sweet boy of mine, he knows what his Mama likes!

PANTIE RAID, 2011

2011-11-09T12:14:00.000-08:00

Please join us, for our 2nd Annual Pantie Raid!

During November, if you bring in packages of new, Women's, Boys or Girls underwear or socks, we will give you a free precut fat quarter.

Last year we were able to donate over 100 packages to a transitional home for abused women and children, please help us beat those numbers! Undies are always needed, and often not donated.

Several other quilt shops around the country will be doing the same drive, for their local charity. Let's show them how awesome the NW Quilters are!

QUILT MARKET, CONTINUED.

2011-11-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

I am home from Quilt Market, and back in the shop. It always takes me days to digest what I saw, and what I bought. I had a wonderful time. Saw lots of friends, talked 'shop', found new pattern companies and ordered new fabric. These things will be coming in over the next few months, and I will keep you informed when they arrive.

One of the most anticipated fabric lines is from Pam Kitty Morning, it was fun to see Pam. She was working in the Lake House Booth. Her PKM fabric should be here anytime! I can't wait. http://pamkittymorning.blogspot.com/

Eleanor Burnes was dressed as an astronaut for Halloween. That woman loves a costume!

I caught Alma Allen alone in the BlackBird booth. What a sweet and generous woman she is. Not to mention talented. I am in love with the Blue Berry Crumb Cake Fabric line, coming soon. Their new book Weekend, should be shipping this week! The projects are beautiful.

This was perhaps, the most photographed celebrity on the show floor. He just made you smile! There is no one quite like the Cat in The Hat! Did you realize that The Cat In The Hat was written in 1957? It is just as enchanting today as it was then.

Now, it is time to tackle the piles of papers, unopened mail, samples that need to be made. In other words I need to get BUSY! I hope you have enjoyed a little of the show. J

LET THE MARKET BEGIN

2011-10-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a long day of classes, lectures and shopping. 8am until 10pm. I do this just for you, my favorite customers!

Today, I have walked the market floor (all 500 plus vendors!)

Yesterday I went to a couple of fun designer lectures.

One was with Minick and Simpson. They had several quilts from their new book Victory Girls.

Sue Daley is a designer from Australia. She is passionate about English Hand Piecing. Her work is amazing. This is her version of a Double Wedding Ring table runner.

This is the most amazing Grandmother's Flower Garden!

To Give you a little perspective, I took this picture of my hand near the center of the quilt.

I think the seam allowance in the center hexagons is bigger than the pieces, themselves.

This closeup is one of the hexagons in the main body of the quilt. The 'larger' ones if you will.

Sue has a new book coming out, Patchwork for Busy Fingers. If you love Hexies, this is perfect for you.

During one presentation by Andover Fabrics, I was sitting near Lizzy House. She is just as cute as her name. I have followed her career for a couple of years. Such a talented young lady.

This is her Color Wheel quilt. Pretty fabulous.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! J

HOUSTON

2011-10-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe, but it's Quilt Market time! I spent the day in Houston, renewing friendships and planning for the next few days ahead.

Spending time with friends, is one of the best parts market. Laura Flynn from http://www.cottonpatchquiltshop.com/ is always a fun date at market. After catching up on family, we spent hours talking about our hopes and dreams for our shops.

We ran into many friends on the street and in the hotel lobby. It is wonderful to feel so connected to so many wonderful women. Tomorrow is a full day of classes, ending with every one's favorite, Sample Spree. So, stay tuned!!

I love this look down the road that leads to the convention center! Just had to share. J

Hoodies Collection

2011-10-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

It is so wet and dreary outside, I thought you would like to take a look at Hoodie's latest arrival in the shop. Wonderful stylised fruit fabric. I am in love!

There is a cute place mat pattern on the Timeless Treasures website http://www.ttfabrics.net/patterns/

They would make great gifts this holiday season.

Personally, I think I need to make Pineapple pillowcases for the Newlyweds, when they return from their honeymoon on Saturday! J

Let Me Present, Mr and Mrs Christopher Stewart

2011-10-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe it has been 3 weeks since I blogged with you. I have been busy. My son and his fiance were married last week. They live in Idaho, and the wedding was in Seattle. So, I was able to help a little more than most Mothers of the Groom. Lucky Me!

I must admit they are super cute, and I am in love with them both!

Today, I am back in the Comannd Center. Thinking about Quilt Market next week, new designers, and fresh ideas. I was surfing around and found Malka Dubrowsky's blog. She is a new author and a new fabric designer. I will be seeing her things at market. Take a look at her work. http://stitchindye.blogspot.com/ She is super creative.

Also, for those of you who have been waiting Ruby, by Thimble Blossoms arrived today. To Die For. Just sayin' J

IT'S OFFICIAL, FALL IS HERE!

2011-09-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

I found a couple more photos from my antique shopping last week, that I just had to share. Just look at those faces! Hand made with love, friends till the end! Looking at them now, I can't believe I left them there! All 3 smiling, saying 'pick me' but don't leave my BFF behind!

This is something else I did not buy. A partially finished table cloth. Still in the hoop, the needle rusted in place. You have to wonder what happened. She had already done so much work. A story should come with unfinished projects! I should attach notes to the UFO's I have. There is a reason, a story, really!

If you live in the North West, you know that fall has arrived. It's raining. It's been windy. There have been power outages. The farmer's markets are about to come to an end. I have not been looking forward to the change of seasons. Summer came so late this year. I enjoyed every minute of the sunshine. Today, I am wearing shoes. I refuse to wear socks. But, it was just to wet to wear sandals. We may get a few nice days again. But, today, it is fall.

So, what makes me happy about fall? FLANNEL! Yep, and do we have the most beautiful flannel EVER! When I was at Spring Quilt Market, it was between 80 and 90 degrees out. All of the major fabric companies had big flannel collections. I wasn't thinking about fall, no, I was thinking about Iced Tea and Flip Flops. But, I went along with the game. I bought flannel. I knew it was beautiful. There were darling things made out of it. But, I was hoping that Spring, with Summer close behind were coming.

Today, I was straightening flannel, and loving every minute of it. It is outstanding! Just look at these designs.

Quilt backs, little girls jumpers, quilts. Super cozy flannel.

Pj pants, boxer shorts.

High quality, beautifully printed.

Flannel. Yes, I said it. It is time to start the Fall/Winter sewing. We have beautiful flannel for those projects you will want to have finished near the end of December. Can't make me say that word! Not in September!

This is the perfect fabric for petting, by the way! J

Antique Shopping

2011-09-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took myself on a little date. I used to spend a lot of time in Antique Stores. I am not sure why I don't go as often any more. Maybe, it's because my house is full of wonderful stuff. But, yesterday, I felt the need to get an 'antique fix'. I look for lots of vintage things. Anything with a 'cute' factor is fair game. Fabric, patterns, quilt blocks, sewing notions, embroidery, cookie jars, baby planters, cool stuff in general.

Here are some of the things I saw on my date!

I am in love with vintage tinted linens. I have stacks of them. This one is adorable. It makes 3 pot holders. I often think I should make them up, but, I just don't want to cut them. Cute just the way they are!!

Stacks of vintage tea towels. Both appliqued and embroidered. Little works of art. I wonder if they were made as gifts, I have a set someone made my mom. They were "too nice to use". So, I don't use them either. I love to look at them.

This was a really cool handmade basket. It had 14 spindles to hold your spools of thread. Super cool. My cats would love it!!

From a distance this red and white quilt made my heart skip a beat. However, when I got closer, it is made with 90's fabric. A little floral pansy, with metallic gold on it. Not a vintage find.

How about this cutie. I don't think the box had ever been opened. And the girl is sewing from the wrong side of the machine. Clever, don't you think?

This was what I was hunting for!!! A sweet, little toy sewing machine. Battery operated. It is metal, except for the red wheel, and the yellow on/off button. Oh, and the tiny foot pedal. The dial is a decal. It is happily living right behind the counter, in the shop. There is something about a child's sewing machine that makes me super happy. I know the customers enjoy seeing them also. At least that was what I was telling myself as I was carefully carrying it to the front desk! J

A little trip to Idaho

2011-09-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to Idaho for a couple of days. I wanted to visit the Quilt Crossing in Boise. Several designers work in that shop, and I had heard they had many samples of their work.

I also wanted to see a trunk show that was hanging at Huckleberry Patches in McCall.

I had bad Camera Karma. So I have borrowed a few photos from the World Wide Web, to share some of the great things I was able to see.

First of all, The Quilt Crossing is HUGE! They have hundreds of samples. It was pretty amazing. There are 6 or 8 areas just like the one pictured. Lots of ideas all in one location. Wool and embroidery are everywhere.

Waltzing With Bears must have 50 samples throughout the shop. These wool pumpkins were wonderful.

And the sweet wool pincushions. I want to make them all!

If you are ever in the Boise area, it's a great place to visit. There is a lot of inspiration around every corner.

I have loved visiting Huckleberry Stitches for years. They expanded last winter, it's nice to know they are doing well. It's a small town, I think they have everybody stitching!

I knew they were going to have a trunk show from Old Green Cupboard Designs. It wasn't hanging. It was draped over tables. So you could really get an up close look at the quilts. They were beautiful. Classic ideas, with a little twist. This red and white quilt was so pretty. I love a scrappy red and white quilt. And the setting was so unique!

Many of the quilts had wool applique. This one had giant rick-rack, and 3 dimensional applique. Really wonderful. And the scrappy 9 patches. Be still my heart. I really want to make this!

Sometimes, I need to get away, clear my head, and take a look at how other quilt shop owners display projects in their shops. It refreshes me. I must admit, 'There's no place like home' J

Look What UPS Rob Dropped Off

2011-09-10T11:11:00.000-07:00

It's always fun to see what UPS Rob drops off. This week was no exception. There was the much needed box of notions. Thread. Everyone knows how much I love thread. I did make a little mistake when I ordered last week. Instead of 1 box of Aurifil color 2325, I ordered 14 boxes. That's a lot of color #2325. It's a very nice color. A medium brown. It goes with everything. I will probably never have to order it again. That's me, looking at the bright side.

There were beautiful flannels from Primitive Gatherings. It's 80 degrees, and people are buying them. Just because they are so beautiful.

And there was a box of Moda Pre Cuts. Layer Cakes, Charm Squares and Jelly Rolls.

These are Cosmo Cricket's new collection~Circa 1934. I love the Typewriter keys. Does anyone use a typewriter anymore?

This is Aneela Hoey's new collection. Little Apples. This little girl in the pink coat makes me happy! I think I want to try to Hula Hoop. Especially if I have a pink coat on!

And, French General. This is the most beautiful collection, ever. The blues are amazing. I can't wait until the bolts of fabric arrive. The name of the group is Panier de Fluers. Basket of Flowers. Luckily for me, Patty was working yesterday. She is our resident language expert. (She was a french teacher in a former life.) ( She also speaks German and Spanish.) Ok, I was thinking Panier, is like Mt. Rainer. No. Panier is pronounced Pon E A.

So, it was a good UPS week, but then isn't every week a good UPS week around here? I think so! J

It's The Most Wonderful Month Of The Year!

2011-09-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Sweet September. I love this month. The smell of a new box of crayons. Wool skirts and sweaters on an 80 degree day. New friends. And Ronald Regan gave us National Sewing Month! You have to sew, you must sew. It is a National Holiday for goodness sake!

What will you sew? I will be working on a few last minute things for my son and his fiance, class samples and a wedding quilt. And really, anything that comes to the top of the pile.

Today I was looking in cyberspace to see what others were working on, and Tula Pink is hosting a sew along on the Burda website. http://www.westminsterfibers.com/sewalong/ she is one of the most creative designers out there. I have been wanting to use her Prince Charming fabric. It never occured to me that I could make a dress. However, maybe this would be perfect!

What ever you decide to sew, I hope you do it with a light heart. Have a fun time. It is a National Holiday, after all!!

Summer Time, And The Livin' Is Easy

2011-08-24T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally happened. Summer has arrived in the Pacific NW. It took longer than usual this year. The tomato's aren't ripe. We've continued to wear sweat shirts, while the rest of the country couldn't figure out how to cool down.

When this happens, our quilting changes, also. It is no longer binding season. We pull our hair up and cook outside. Both my sewing room, and my laundry room are on the 2nd floor of my house. If I do laundry, it has to be very early. Otherwise, my house is like a sauna. The same is true for hanging out in my sewing room.

I am very lucky. I have dozens of unfinished projects. There is always hand work to be done. Just not binding. If you aren't as lucky as I am, and need an idea of what to work on for the next few days, I have a few suggestions.

Have you always wanted to make a Grandmother's Flower Garden? Now is a great time to start one!

How about a Dresden Plate? Maybe you have some treasured blocks waiting to be finished.

This wonderful new pattern from The Vintage Spool, would put you in the mood for a French vacation next summer.

You could jump start your Halloween sewing! This has to be the cutest book on the market. You could just make one block. But just which Critter would you choose?

You could do a little Red Work, and when the weather cools down, you could put it into a darling little quilt.

This delightful book, by Lynette Anderson, has applique and embroidery. Little projects, big projects. If you, or someone you love, is an animal lover, there are some pretty wonderful projects between the covers of this book.

So, basically, I just want to let you know that even though it is warm outside, you can still sew!! And, I hope you will. It will make you happy, I just know it. J

Finishing

2011-08-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

During the last few weeks, 2 of the women who work in the shop have been bringing in Show and Tell. They are older projects, that they have dusted off and decided to finish. I believe Lisa www.stashmaster.typepad.com started the whole thing. Then Kay Hobby http://quiltstudiohappenings.blogspot.com/ joined in the fun.

This weekend, I decided I wanted to play, too. So, I dug out 2 very happy projects. And finished them up!! A proud moment, I must admit.

The first quilt is made from the happiest fabric on earth. Flower Sugar, from Lecien. I have loved this fabric since the moment I layed eyes on it. It's like candy. I have wanted to sew with it, but I didn't really want to cut it all up. At least not on the first project. So, this little pattern (Red Rose, by Villa Rose Designs) was the perfect answer. Big chunky pieces. Yippee! I am in love, love, love with it.

Then there was Bliss. Just saying the word Bliss makes me a happy girl. And sewing with the Bliss fabric made me even happier. I mean, really, Turquoise and Red. How could anyone every have a bad day, if they surrounded themselves with those colors.

I cut this quilt with my Accuquilt Studio. Making these blocks, Easy Peasey.

Just look at those points!!

Now, I can get busy with fall samples for the shop. But, this weekend was all about me! J

Where is Hello Kitty?

2011-08-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

During Quilt Market in May, I was drawn into the 7 Islands Fabric booth, because of a bag made of Hello Kitty Fabric. I Heart Hello Kitty! I have several pieces of HK fabric, but it is not the best quality. The thought of Hello Kitty in my very own store made me swoon!

Yesterday, a box arrived from 7 Islands. My hands began to sweat. As Noel and I looked through the box, each bolt was cuter than the next.

Little Red Ridding Hood is adorable. The birds, apple trees, even the Big Bad Wolf.

The Pink Poodles! Who doesn't love a Pink Poodle?

This darling puppy print. Probably meant for Valentines Day.

There were several others, all equally cute. They are from a collection called Old American.

We dug to the bottom of the box, and Hello Kitty was nowhere in sight.

This was just a teaser.

I know Hello Kitty will come to my store one day, I just know it!!

WHAT'S A GIRL TO SEW?

2011-07-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

I want to sew this afternoon. Really, I need to sew this afternoon. My heart needs a good dose of sewing. But, my head is spinning. What should I work on? Old or new? Shop sample, wedding stuff, or something for me?

I am working on a couple of Red Work projects. One for Christmas (probably a present), and one fabulous secret project for myself.

I have orange pinwheels in progress. Just for me.

I could finish the binding on my Twister quilt.

I could dig into my Flower sugar stash.

I could start on this new Block of The Month sample.

This is all embroidered. I could put on the border.

Or maybe I should just read the brand new copy of Primitive Quilts in my back yard, and dream of sewing!

What ever I decide, I know it will be a wonderful afternoon of sewing and day dreaming. The perfect way to spend a summer afternoon, don't you think? J

Summer Wine Shuffle

2011-07-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

This Saturday Country Village is having a Wine Walk. Twenty shops are hosting 20 local wineries. Keepsake Cottage doesn't usually have the opportunity to host one, because who wants wine sloshing around the fabric, Not Me! But since it is in the summer, we will set up in the court yard.

If you buy your tickets in advance, they are $20, and $25 the evening of the event. It's always fun when the shops are open in the evening, especially if they are serving wine!

We will be hosting a Columbia River Winery, Ginkgo Forest Winery http://ginkgowinery.com/ They are near the petrified ginkgo trees, and have planted a crop of ginkgo's so we will eventually be able to enjoy their beauty. Very cool concept.

If you are in the area, please stop in. I will be working, hopefully sporting a new 'wine' apron. And, will have a few wine related gift ideas for you.

Remember it is BYOG. Bring your own glass!

Happy National Chocolate Day!

2011-07-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have been told that today is a very special day, National Chocolate Day!

What a wonderful thing to celebrate. Chocolate.

You might like yours in the form of a Kiss.

Or maybe a big bowl of M & M's.

A brownie would be delightful, today, or any day.

How ever you choose to celebrate, I hope that a few of you look as happy as this guy, at the end of the day!

Celebrate with gusto!! J

DAY 3

2011-06-24T15:06:00.001-07:00

The reader board always lets us know when the Shop Hop is about to begin! I think I have taken a picture of it all 13 years!

This was taken on Wednesday morning, before we opened the gates. I love it when we hang the bunting on the fence. I plan to leave it up until after the 4th of July. When ever we are having a big event, we like to hang quilts on the clothes line. It's like our little welcoming committee.

This was the cutest selvage purse!! She had already been to Bay Side Quilts. She let us dig around the inside, too. Tons of pockets. Stinkin' Cute!

It's not very often that you will find 5 Keepsake Kuties behind the counter. Kay Hobby and Patty had just arrived, Kay Harris and Noel were just about to leave.

We have had a lot of fun, seen a bunch of great quilts and bags, and it's only Friday! Two more fun filled days ahead. J

Getting Ready!

2011-06-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for the Shop Hop takes months of planning. We do much more than create a quilt block for the Shop Hop Quilt. We make 2500 block kits. Joyce is the Queen of Cutting, Jan proof"s the pattern and has it printed. We all fold fabric and patterns and then package the block kits.

But, the real fun is making new samples. I always like to have several new quilts to display for the shop hop. Yesterday, Joyce, Noel and I came in early, hauled out the big ladders and started hanging the newest samples. It takes us several days to get it all finished, but I thought you might like to see some of the newest projects!

We made 8 small quilts made from charm packs. Most of them are in the new book, 3 Times A Charm from Leisure Arts.

We have had these 3 quilts hanging in the shop before, but they are so darn cute, we decided to add them to the group.

This is a Twister from the Fig Tree group Buttercup. And I love the cheater quilt of the 'boys'.

There will be more new quilts hanging before next week. Bindings are being put on a couple of things today. Hopefully, many of you will be here during the hop, but if not, there will be new things for you the next time you are in the shop.

I took this last Sunday, after finishing my pennant. I wanted to see what it was going to look like when I hung it up. So, I hung it up in my back yard, between my bird feeder and a unoccupied bird house. Pretty cute. Last night after my DH mowed the lawn, I told him, 'I feel like I live in a park'. I am a lucky girl, indeed.

Quilts for the Modern Home

2011-05-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

I have long admired Camille Roskelley's 'look'. Seriously, anyone with a red and white polka dot chair is my hero! She's a beautiful young mom, who has been out in the front of the Modern Quilt movement.

Her pattern company is Thimble Blossoms. Her mom is Bonnie Olaveson, from Cotton Way. Together they design fabric for Moda, under the name Cotton Blossoms.

I have used their Bliss collection in several projects. I love the colors, red, turquoise and pink. The newest group is Ruby. OMG. They have added gray to the colors and a wonderful green. It won't be here for months. That's ok, it gives me time to finish up my Bliss projects, before I dive in.

I was reading her blog today http://www.camilleroskelley.typepad.com/, and she has posted many pictures of her booth at Quilt Market. Go take a peak. It was so pretty, makes me miss market!

If you haven't looked through her book Quilts for the Modern Home, Simplify, you should. The photos are beautiful. Camille actually did the photography. She is one very talented young woman. And, she is totally in love with her little boys, and her husband. I love that about a person. J

The Australian Designers at Market

2011-05-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with several Australian designers at Quilt Market. I believe this happened during fall market, also. There is something fresh and original about their 'look'. A little bit country, a little bit folk art, a little sweet. I can't really put a finger on it, but I really, really loved it!

This was the booth for Gail Pan Designs. Jam packed with wonderfulness!! The quilt hanging on the left of the booth is titled, Birds and Berries. Applique and embroidery, and darling. Joyce has already started a sample, using a fat quarter bundle of Flower Sugar, that I brought home from Market. (Hard to believe I let it go) It is going to be WONDERFUL!!

This cute Christmas quilt was made by Lynette Anderson, using her new fabric collection from Lecien, Scandinavian Christmas. Uber cute!

We spent quite a bit of time in Anni Downs booth. She is the designer of Hatched and Patched designs. OMG, the cute factor was unbelievable. Wool, embroidery, patchwork, applique-she does it all! We have had this book for a month or so, but seeing the quilt in person was so inspiring. I just wanted to start stitching right there! I ordered several of her books and patterns. It was a painful process, because I wanted everything!

I don't have a photo of Sue Daley. But, she is rocking the English Paper world! And, she was funny. And as my BFF Mary used to say, 'what are you if you're not funny.' She has a book coming in December, so there will be lots of chatter about her.

A common thread with all of these talented ladies, were small take along projects. Needle books, pincushions, little bags. Stitched and embellished. I had to remind myself to breath. Australian Crush!! J

QUILT MARKET DAY ONE AND TWO

2011-05-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

Quilt market is always jam packed with business and pleasure. I always think there will be more time for 'pleasure' when I am at market. The truth is, there is a lot of work that has to be done, however, having a moment for hugs and greetings is one of the reasons that market is the best place to 'see and be seen.'

Last night Noel and I had dinner with our good friend Laura. She owns The Cotton Patch in Florida. Great food, and great friends. What a wonderful evening we had.

We started out yesterday morning with Pam Kitty Morning. OMG, her new fabric line is amazing. The most wonderful color pallet. True to Pam's design roots. We were blown away with the entire collection.

We loved Valori Wells' new fabric line, Wrenly. Having a bird on fabric makes us happy!

This is Violet Craft. The perfect name for a very talented young Modern designer. I met Violet in the airport last fall on my way to Houston. It was very early in the morning, and we hauled all of our luggage on to a city bus, and rode into Houston with the rush hour traffic. Her very first pattern was coming out with Indigo Junction. It was very fun to listen to her excitement. At this market, she not only has children's clothing patterns, but she has a great new fabric line called Peacock Lane, with Michael Miller! My head is spinning, and I can't remember when it will be in the shop. But, I will keep you informed. Check out her blog. http://blog.violetcraft.com/

More to come tomorrow. J

SCHOOL HOUSE and SAMPLE SPREE

2011-05-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a long, fun filled day. We started with a lecture at 8 am, had school house sessions from 10 until 6, and went to Sample Spree from 8 until 10. I could hardly fall asleep last night, there were so many wonderful thoughts zipping around in my head.

I thought you would like to see a few of the treasures we bought at Sample Spree, or as my friend Melisa calls it 'Trample Spree'.

The lighting in the hotel room is not the best, but just use your imagination, and you will find it all wonderful.

Each year Moda designs bags that are just for Sample Spree. This one has a vintage logo. I love it!

Noel and I both bought these little lambs from Ann Sutton, of Bunny Hill. We have patterns for Lollipop to ship home. So, Sweet!

This Birthday Cup Cake wool candle mat is so precious. You could use it for years, on every one's special day. The sprinkles are french knots.

This little table topper uses a focus fabric in the center, and then 1 1/2" strips around. One of my favorite fabric collections, Charlevoix.

The market is packed with great ideas. Lunch is over, we need to get back to 'work'. J

SALTLAKE CITY, HERE WE COME

2011-05-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Noel and I are leaving for Quilt Market. Where did the time go? I just got back from Fall Market, right?

This year market is in Salt Lake City. It is a beautiful city. Snuggled right up to the Wasatch Mountains. We were there a few years ago. The day we arrived it was in the 80's, the next morning there was fresh snow in the mountains. A breathtaking sight.

We will have a car this trip, so we can visit a few quilt shops and some old friends. A customer, who was once my next door neighbor, and her husband have moved to a retirement home in Sandy, Utah. We are looking forward to catching up with them on Wednesday.

I always look forward to catching up with my shop owner buddies from around the country. Kelly Ann http://www.kellyannsquilting.com/, Roseann http://www.rosebuds-cottage.com/ Melisa http://www.sweethomequiltco.com/ Laura http://www.cottonpatchquiltshop.com/ Nancy http://www.quiltedkitty.com/ to name a few. Then there are my designer friends, like Monica Snow http://www.thehappyzombie.com/blog/ and Cheryl Malkowski http://www.cherylmalkowski.com/.

There are many others that I can't wait to hug and chat with. However, on Friday morning when the Market floor opens. I am going to speed walk to the Lakehouse booth to order this!!

My heart skipped a beat when she revealed this on her blog last week!

Now, we can all have a Pam Kitty Morning!

I will be checking in on a daily basis, introducing you to my friends, old and new. And, showing you sneak peeks of the new treasures I have found. J

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2011-05-06T16:29:00.000-07:00

If I was going to send each of you a bouquet of flowers for Mother's Day, I think this would be it! Beautiful flowers in a wonderful covered casserole. What an amazing gift that would be! And, yes, they would be pink. I love pink. I was just reading a blogpost by Rachel Ashwell http://www.rachelashwellshabbychic.com/
where she said 'I am taking pink to heaven with me.' I now have an official girl crush. Rachel is a new fabric designer for P&B. I can't wait to see her line, shabby chic and pink.

I hope you each have something wonderful planned to celebrate the day.

When my boys were young, they would let me take as many pictures of them as I wanted on Mother's Day. It is all I have ever wanted. Just my boys, and the memory of their smiles. Just look at those grins! Now, every time they are together, they tease me about taking the 'Christmas Card picture'. This was from 2 years ago. All as tall as men, but still my boys.

This is my Mama. She has been gone since 1998. I still love and miss her everyday. Hug your kids and your Mom's, it's the best of both worlds. J

BORDERS!

2011-05-02T17:02:00.000-07:00

I watch people, everyday, select fabric for quilts. Often people, myself included, will choose fabric according to their favorite fabric. The one they plan to use for the border. Most of the time this works out just fine. But, if it doesn't, are you willing to change?

I had one of these moments this weekend. I was making a little charm square quilt. After sewing the blocks together, I cut the borders and stitched them on. I didn't audition them. (I was watching a Julia Child's rerun on PBS). When I was finished, I stood back, prepared to be happy with the results. But no, they were wimpy. WIMPY! I liked the fabric I selected, but it just didn't do it for me.

I took it to the shop, thinking maybe it would grow on me. Nope, I was right. It needed a different border.

I didn't take a picture of the quilt before I started taking the border off. But, I think you can get the idea. It was a sweet plaid, with cherries. I even matched the plaid!

See how light it is, and the center is pretty bold.

Okay, now it's off and I can audition other choices.

This afternoon I came home a little early and put my new choice on! No More Wimpy Quilts! Now, I am happy!

This little beauty is just, layer, baste, quilt as desired and bind, away from hanging in the shop!

I hope this will give you the courage to follow your gut, when you are putting your quilt tops together. If you feel you need to change-just do it. You will be happy that you did. J

BTW the pattern is Dora, by Me and My Sister.

APRONS

2011-04-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about making an apron. Did you know that the Monday after Mother's Day, is National Apron Day?

I love the idea of having a fresh new apron to wear on the upcoming holiday. So, I did some looking on line today, and I was reminded just how much I love a Vintage Apron.

I love the packaging of the patterns. The stylish hair. The tiny waists! And this is a size 14-16!

Look at the great options in these 3 patterns. I love the pockets in the center! You could put a lot of Lego's in those babies! Again the tiny waists!

This is so adorable. And, it was a free pattern. I wish little blue birds would come tie my apron strings, and turn down my sheets at night.

I love these flirty see-thru aprons. Just what would you put in those pockets? These must have been worn at fancy cocktail parties in the 50's.

This looks more like it. Cherries, a nice sized pocket, a flirty ruffle at the bottom, and a normal waist line!

FYI-I mailed 72 'Just One Star' blocks to Moda last week. Thanks for all of your participation! J

More Quilt Show Peeks

2011-03-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Inspiration was everywhere during the QA show. I wanted to show you a few more quilts. This was called Bay leaf. What a wonderful way to use your 30's fabric! I loved this quilt. Hand appliqued and hand quilted. The old fashioned way.

I was thrilled to see this quilt. I sold 3 or 4 bolts of the panel used in the squares. I have seen a couple of quilts and everyone did a terrific job creating something unique.

I love Mary Hickey and her quilts!! This is such a beauty. Judy Pollard gave Mary several of these urn blocks, Mary made a few more and whipped this up. I love the picket fence border.

This was made with a vintage piece of fabric, from the Seattle Worlds Fair, in 1962. There are fireworks quilted in the background. A true Seattle tradition!

You could almost hear the jungle sounds when you were looking at this quilt!

Loved this still life!

Amazing paper piecing and color selection! Way outside of my box. But, I loved it!

Quilt shows get my juices flowing. So much of what I make, is done in a hurry, so I can use it in as a shop sample. It is so nice to see these works of art. One of a kind quilts. Love, love, love them!

There were over 500 quilts in the show this year. The guild should be proud.
They are encouraging their members to act on their passion.

I have a a small quilt groups collection of quilts that I will post here in a few days. So check back. J

MARCH

2011-03-27T12:23:00.001-07:00

March is a busy month at Keepsake Cottage. The month starts with Sew Expo, we don't have a booth, but many people come to the shop on their way to or from Expo. Then, the Quilters Anonymous Quilt Show followed the next week by the Tri County Quilt Tour. The Tour ended yesterday. I am taking a day off, and thought I would share some photo's from the Quilt Show last weekend.

There were 2 featured artist's at the show. One Traditional quilter, Bunny Johanson, and one very artistic quilter, Maureen Roy. This shows the diversity of the membership in this guild. The quilt above is hand appliqued and hand quilted. Bunny told me it is the largest quilt she has ever made. I couldn't get back far enough to get the whole quilt in the photo. It was a beauty!

This is one of Maureen's original creations. It was a show stopper!

This Beautiful quilt was made by a friend, Joan Dawson. She is so talented, I just like to stand near her, and watch what she is picking out! This is mostly wool. The bias stems are cotton, and a few pieces of the applique are cotton. She dyed most of the wool herself. Some of it with Kool Aide!

This amazing piece was made by Donna Eines. She has been winning ribbons at QA and all of the local fairs for years. It is hand appliqued and hand quilted. I took a few photo's so you could see her work up close.

This is the true meaning of stippling!!

Her choice of fabrics for the leaves was all over the green color spectrum. Just amazing!

This was the quilt that was hanging across from our booth! 8,160 1 inch triangles. Hand pieced and hand quilted. It was had to get a picture of it, because there was always a crowd in front of it!

This is a close up. The fabrics were from the 30's, 40's and 50's. The quilter made this over the last couple of years. Amazing!

This is the back of a quilt made by Judy Irish. She is a pretty incredible machine quilter. This quilt was hung so you could enjoy both sides. She has a Koi pond, can you tell?

There are many more pictures to show you. So, stay tuned! J

Quilts of Valor

2011-03-04T15:37:00.000-08:00

Last fall when I was at Quilt Market there was a lot of buzz about Quilts of Valor. Since 2003, Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) volunteers have made over 32,000 quilts to donate to wounded service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. They have extended their efforts, and want to donate quilts to all American combat veterans who were wounded or touched by war, no matter what the conflict.

Nine fabric companies have designed patriotic fabric collections to help in this effort. They will also have free patterns on their websites. The participating companies are, Andover Fabrics, Clothworks, Marcus Fabrics, Moda, P&B Textiles, Quilting Treasures, Red Rooster Fabrics, Timeless Treasures and Windham Fabrics.

All of the companies are shipping the fabrics in March. (Yikes, it's March!) So, we are going to have the best selection of patriotic fabric, ever! I love a red, white and blue quilt, and I know I will be inspired to make a quilt for this great cause. If you don't want to make a quilt, but would like to get involved, Moda has a plan for you. It's called Just One Star, http://www.unitednotions.com/LA_just_one_star.pdf. They are hoping to make 100 quilts in 100 days. Flags of Valor, just like the one above. They need 1800 star blocks. They are pretty magic at the Moda Warehouse, but that's a lot of star blocks. So, they thought if quilters wanted to make Just One Star, it would be a huge help!!

If you want to make a block and drop it off at the shop, I would be happy to mail it to them! I think I will make one tonight, to get the ball rolling. J

How I spent my last weekend...

2011-02-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

Last week, with my car packed full of sewing supplies and my 2 BFF's, Suzanne and Betsy, we headed off for 4 bliss full days of sewing. We were joined by 10 of our best quilting buddies. What a wonderful weekend it was!

I put the borders on a beautiful red and white scrap quilt that I started a year ago.

Colleen finished her Christmas stocking that were made from a vintage bed spread. They will look elegant for years to come. Ellie was working on the cutest tiny 9 patches.

Betsy's was working on her daughters wedding quilt. Super Cute! The center of each square was signed during the reception last October. It is going to be a wonderful memory of that magical evening.

Suzanne was working on a Moda Bake Shop project. It will grace her bed on the 4th of July.

Marla brought her hand appliqued blocks to sew together. This was breath taking!

This is a close up of one block. This was a pattern in a magazine, by Pat Sloan. I believe it was called August Breeze.

This is Laurie's tidy work station. She was working on a quilt for Quilts of Valor. A wonderful cause.

Kay made this cute little zippered pouch. I was the lucky recipient.

Marla brought this for show and tell. She had worked on it at a previous retreat. I love house blocks, and those little floating stars. The best!

I made this Hobo Bag for the shop. It's a Kwik Sew pattern.

I am in love with orange fabric!! An Orange Crush if you will!! I jumped into my basket of orange and started to make pinwheels. Before I knew it I had 35 of them!

Bob the Turtle Purse was along for the retreat. He had a difficult time selecting from the menu at JJ"s Fish House!!

There were many projects that I did not photograph. Aprons, quilts, receiving blankets and more. However the very best part of the weekend was the friendship in the air. We have been doing this for 13 years. We have been through a lot with each other. A sisterhood of women, brought together through the love of quilting. I cherish our time together. Long Live the Killer Bee's!!

BIRDS OF A FEATHER-SNEEK PEEK

2011-02-16T12:32:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a project for our upcoming Tri County Quilt Tour. This is our Spring shop hop. 3 county's, 91 miles, 14 wonderful LQS's.

Each year we decide on a theme, and each shop designs a quilt block reflecting the theme. In September we meet, bring our blocks for show and tell, and exchange patterns. We each go back to our shops and design a quilt using all of the block patterns. It is really fun to see what everyone comes up with.

This year we are calling the Quilt Tour 'Birds of a Feather'. We each designed a bird house block. Super fun, don't you think?

This is the block I designed, Noel did a beautiful job of appliqueing it!

This darling little house was pieced by Patty. It was designed by Calico Creations in Mount Vernon.

This Chicken is from The Quiltmakers Shoppe in Arlington. Kay Harris made this for me, her little scarf is 3 dimensional!

Here is our quilt. I am taking it to my quilter today. We used fabrics from many different Blackbird Designs collections. Then center block was embroidered by Pamela at Moondog Embroidery. I am super happy with the way it turned out!

It will come to life when Pam is done quilting it-'It's not a quilt until it's quilted'. J

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

I have always loved Valentine's Day.

This early Valentine with the treadle sewing machine reminds me that I wasn't the first generation to enjoy this holiday!

I remember decorating a shoe box, to place on my desk. Such anticipation about the cards that would be stuffed into that box!

The selection process for me was very important. Each card had to really remind me of the recipient. Not too mushy for some, and kind of suggestive for others!

This one is kind of racy for it's time! Don't you think!

Oh, I wish I had that dress to wear to dinner tonight! Let's not talk about Tarzan's outfit...

This was a box of valentines from the 60's that was listed on eBay. What a find! There is one on the top with a cigarette, amazing. I am sure there is one in that box for a teacher. I loved filling out the teacher card. Using my best penmanship.

Here's a little secret about me, I was married on Valentines Day, 29 years ago.

It was a great day for a wedding, but it is not always a great day for an anniversary. You need to make your dinner reservation at least a month in advance. Restaurants are Super Crowded, so lingering is not an option. We spent this past weekend in LA visiting our middle son. We had wonderful meals, sunshine and great company. A great way to celebrate. Tonight, our favorite local spot. Where they know our names, and how we like our food.

I hope you spend the day with the love(s) of your life!! J

Our Saturday Girls!!

2011-01-30T09:56:00.000-08:00

Keepsake Cottage is like many small businesses, the employees become family and the customers become friends. It is one of the things I love most about the shop.

Saturday was one of those days when it felt like we were all family. There is a group of ladies who come for a little class, show and tell and friendship two Saturday's a month. We just call them the Saturday Girls. We love it when they are there. It's like our fun cousins coming over to play on Saturday morning.

One of the Saturday Girls has been dealing with cancer. So what does a family of quilters do, why the make a quilt of course!

Colleen was selected to say a few words, and present the quilt to Janet.

As you can imagine, she was speechless.

We all went outside to take a few photos of the quilt and the group.

Standing: Joyce (the ringleader, teacher), Julie (me) Colleen, Sue, Brenda, June and Carol. Janet and Jane are in the front. Many of these ladies met in a class 5 years ago. For a couple of years they came once a month, but they have been coming twice a month for about 3 years now.

Just as we were starting to take pictures these 3 great gals came through the gate. Two of them stood on the bench and held the quilt and one of them was the official photographer!! Thank you Sara, Annalee and Christine for helping us out!!

I have the best customers in the world!!

I HEART A SOCK MONKEY!

2011-01-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

What's not to love about a sock monkey? They bring back fond memories for many 'baby boomers'.

Besides, you just have to smile when you see one. I found this big fellow in the Moda offices a few years ago. My Buddie, Bobbi, from Sisters Quilt Shop in Chehalis took this picture of us.

This guy is nice and relaxed. His tail seems short to me. My Grandmother made monkeys for all of the Grandchildren, and my brother enjoyed swinging them over his head, by the tail. So, all of our tails were a little stretched out. I think he wanted to be a cowboy, instead of a zoo keeper!

Just look at this line up! Each one with their own personality! Just like people. I have a hard time passing them up when I am in an antique store. They look a little lonely when there is just one. But, put them together on a bench, or coming out of a child's dresser drawers, and there is nothing but Monkey Business going on!

If you've been in the shop, you know that I use them as props in the Kid's Room. A few have snuck into my office. This year for Christmas, my son, Cameron gave me a sock monkey hat. I have to admit when it was 16 degrees, I didn't mind dressing like a monkey.

I made them for my boys when they were young. I was trendy, and made them with blue socks, instead of brown. We have sold the socks in the shop for years, so I know someone is out there making them.

Did you know there are other sock animals? I have an elephant, a unicorn and a bear.

This book just came into the shop. There are dozens of different ideas for making sock friends. They are precious! What a fun winter project. Surprise someone for Valentines day with a little 'sock love'. Be sure and show us before you give it away!

COTTON CROPS

2011-01-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

You may have read about the rising cost of cotton, this fall.

It was big news when I was in Houston in October. All of the vendors were talking about it.

We are all about to feel it.

I thought I would take a little time to try and explain what I understand, about the increases.

There is a real cotton shortage. Both China and Pakistan had major flooding in 2010. There were droughts in India. Those things were unexpected. The United States and Russia both under planted their cotton crops.

So, that means that prices will be going up in 2011. In some cases they have already started. Some of the fabric vendors raised their prices each day at market. It was a little like the stock market floor. Heads of companies were on the phones, trying to lock in prices. Others felt like they had enough greige goods purchased that they could go at least another season without increasing.

It won't just be fabric. Anything made of cotton will be going up, we are already seeing increases in thread and in cotton batting.

Clothing will be increasing also. As well as bedding, cotton handbags and canvas shoes.

I have been talking with shop owners around the country, we hope this will be unlike other increases, and when the crops are better, the prices will come down.

I love fabric as much as all of you do, so my plan is to continue buying. I hope you will feel the same!

Maybe this will be a stash buster year, but we all know that scrap quilts always need a little something extra. At least mine do! No matter how hard I try to sew completely from my sewing room, I always need the 'right' green, or an inner border. Sewing and fabric sooth my soul, so yes, there will be new fabric in 2011! J

THE GOLDEN TICKET

2011-01-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

I loved reading Roald Dahl books to my boys when they were young. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was one of my favorites. I remember the excitement Charlie Bucket felt when he found the Golden Ticket, don't you?

Gene Wilder was an amazing Mr. Willy Wonka in the 1st movie. My boys watched that movie over and over.

I must admit I have not seen the Johnny Depp version. I am not sure why, I know I would love it as well.

Wouldn't it be great to win a Golden Ticket. What if the Golden Ticket wasn't to win a trip to the Chocolate factory. What if the ticket was to win a trip to a fabric company. What if you had the winning ticket was for all expenses paid, for 2 people to go to MODA!!

Here is your chance!

Our boxes of Moda Candy Bars just arrived.

Each box contains 4 fabric collections. 2 1/2" x 5" Candy Bars. They are $26 each.

We were only allowed to order them at Quilt Market.

If your box contains a Golden Ticket, you will win a gift bag full of Moda 'sweets' ($150 value)

Each Golden Ticket holder will be entered in a chance to win the Grand Prize

A tour of Moda Fabrics

(3 days, 2 nights for 2, to Dallas, TX, November 2011. Transportation and accommodations for the winner and a guest)

I would love for the winner to come from Keepsake Cottage!! Wouldn't you? J

COVER GIRL

2011-01-05T14:28:00.000-08:00

The latest issue of Country Pleasures was in the mail box today, and what a treat it was for me!!

During 2010 I designed a Block of the Month quilt for this charming magazine. Today was the big reveal.

The blocks each have 'farm' inspired names. Country Farm, Hens and Chicks, Country Bud. You get the picture. The 3 appliqued blocks represent Country Village. The barn is very reminiscent of our shop, the Giant chicken, bunnies and scarecrows. The name of the quilt is Life on the Farm.

It was a fun project to work on, and to see it on the cover of the Magazine, makes my heart skip a beat!

It is beautifully quilted, by a very talented friend, Pam. Go check out her blog, and don't miss the slide show she posted on New Years Eve! You will be inspired to make many of the quilts she has quilted and photographed! http://quiltingsquareone.blogspot.com/

I want to wish each of you a wonderful start to 2011. I hope you have lots of fun projects on your list, I know I do. Some to finish up, and lots to start! I look forward to seeing you and your projects in the months to come. And, if you are not a local follower, send me pictures of your projects! I love show and tell! J

FINISHING UP THE OLD

2010-12-27T15:18:00.000-08:00

With Christmas in the rear view mirror, my husband and I headed over the mountains, for a little R&R. There is snow, lots of snow. And the threat of more on the way. We have groceries, firewood, and a local winery within walking distance. There is a stack of books on the table, DVD's, my trusty pink laptop, and a bag of unfinished projects! What could be better? Well, my son and his fiance had to cancel, because of the snow, having them here would be the best ever. But, UFO's have now popped to the top of my list!

Look at that sweet stack of blades, already basted and ready for whip stitching! I worked on them years ago, while I was on a bus trip in Boston. If any of you remember what year Quilt Market was in Boston, please let me know. That's when this project was started!

Yes, some are already whip stitched together, just waiting for their friends

to join them. They are pretty stinkin' cute. The fabrics are timeless, I know they were printed in the 80's but, they could have been printed in the 40's or 2010. I love that about them.

They are so happy, and I am happy to have them out of the bag, and ready to play. There will be 12 blocks, they will be appliqued to a 12" muslin block, and a yellow center will go on each one. I might sash them in yellow, I am not sure yet. Borders? Binding? They are so friendly, I am sure they will tell me exactly how they want to be finished!

This will be my Happy 2011 quilt!! J

Holiday Cheer

2010-12-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the Holiday's has been different for me this year.

I am not really sure why, but I haven't pushed myself to do all of the things I usually do.

Today, I finally hung a few of my old favorite Christmas quilts.

This Holly Basket Quilt means a lot to me. It is an old Thimbleberries pattern.

I hand appliqued the holly and the berries while sitting next to my mom, during her final days.

I remember her telling me that I would ruin my eyes if I continued to wear 'cheater' glasses.

Once a mom, always a mom!

This Snowman quilt is the size of a door, a life size, friendly fellow.

Orange fabric was difficult to find when I made this. Now, orange is one of my favorite colors.

Don't you think buttons always add a bit of whimsy to a quilt?

I bet this quilt is at least 20 years old. But, it is always the first one I hang.

It will stay up long after Christmas is over.

It was a Debbie Mumm pattern. On the pattern cover there were 4 snowmen, with 3 boys

it made sense to just make 3. I love the simplistic lines of this quilt. I was still hand quilting everything!

Tonight, when I get home from the shop, I am going to light an Apple Pie Candle, listen to Elvis sing Christmas songs, and wrap a few gifts. I feel like I am finally getting ready for the big Holiday!

I plan to bake some cookies in the next few days, remember all of those yummy recipes we shared during the Mistletoe Make and Bake Bloghop? I must get busy!! J

Weather Report

2010-12-08T11:43:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days, when everyone though the door is talking about the weather. Even Face Book is full of weather comments. This morning we had bright flashes of lightning followed by long, loud thunder claps. There was rain, wind and hail in some places. Quite the wake up call! Now, the sky is blue and the sun is shinning.

When I was growing up, my Grandparents lived on a farm outside of Portland, Oregon. I loved spending time there. I was always willing to help, we had to gather eggs, milk Bessy the cow, throw the ball for Shep, feed all of the barn cats. My Grandmother did not quilt, she had a quilt frame, but it was never taken out of the Sears and Roebuck's box. She mended my Grandfathers shirts, made sock monkeys and a few other soft toys. She had a button box, which I treasure today. One of my earliest sewing memories, is sewing buttons on wash cloths, picking the prettiest ones from the box. I imagine, my Grandfather was tired of my 'help', and she had to find a project to keep me inside!

In the hall way of the farm house, there was a big black wall phone. They were on a party line, remember those? They knew what was going on at the near-by farms by listening in. They had a special ring, and I remember them saying 'It's for the Rassmussen's'. We all know who's phone is ringing by our special ring tones, today! Everything old is new again! Next to the phone, hanging from a string, was a current copy of the Farmer's Almanac, and a pencil that my Grandfather sharpened with his pocket knife. He would look at the Almanac, often. Quoted it. I just remember it's yellow cover.

Today, I decided to see what the Almanac had in store for our winter weather, since we have started out with a bang! But, look at the map, Mild and Very Wet. That is great news for those of us in the NW. We know how to do Very Wet, it's the Very Cold, that we have a hard time with. It also said today was a good day to cut your hair, weaning and potty training, bake, cut fire wood and dig holes. Nothing about stitching, hmm. I wonder if they told women when to sew, mend, quilt, stitch? I think it is something we should all but on our calendars! Make time to do a little stitching, it's way more fun than digging holes! J

PS- a pantie raid update. Today, I am delivering 73 pairs of panties, and 65 pairs of socks to the Everett Gospel Mission. They were thrilled with the call, as you can imagine, they are taking care of more people than ever. Thank you for all of your generosity!

Stitching

2010-12-01T14:52:00.000-08:00

Embroidery has always been popular. It's a great way to introduce young girls to sewing. I remember doing a little embroidery during a Blue Bird meeting, I loved it then, and I love it now. Sometimes I am intimidated when I see the beautiful work both Faith and Kay do. I have decided that practice is the only way to get better, so I have been stitching a little in the evenings.

We have quite a few patterns for embroidery in the shop. Did you know that we even carry the Aunt Martha's transfers? I had an Aunt Thelma. She taught me the love of collecting. I own her salt and pepper shaker collection. Hundred's of them. They give me great pleasure. I know how hard she worked, in the cannery, and spending 39 cents at Woolworth's was a big deal! She had many collections, but I don't think she realized we would call them collections today. I have a big box of embroidery patterns that she mailed away for. A wonderful look at the patterns that were available in the 40's and 50's. My father and his brother thought they were 'junk'. Not Me! I treasure them. She also collected pre printed embroidery projects. Yes, I have many of those, also. I will dig them out, and take pictures for you!

This little stitchery, from Rosalie Quinlin, is the one I am working on right now. Rosalie is an Australian designer, you may have seen her projects in the Australian magazines. I ordered her patterns last week, I imagine they are on a slow boat, but when they arrive it is going to be a wonderful day. Her things are delightful, and so is she!!

We have many customers who have made this pattern. It is from Crabapple Hill, and a classic for sure. More than one customer has done it in blue and white. It is on my To Do list. That list just keeps growing! How does that happen? J

PANTIE RAID!

2010-11-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

Today is the 1st day of our cross country Pantie Raid.

Bring in a package of new women's or children's panties or socks,

and we will give you a free fat quarter!

Keepsake Cottage is the only shop on the West Coast

that is participating. So, let's show the rest of the country

some West Coast spirit!!

All of your donations will go to a local 'safe house'

for women and children.

We will be taking donations from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Thanks for your help! J

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2010-11-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

I had a different post planned for Thanksgiving day. You know, a vintage Thanksgiving image, a heartfelt message, wishes for kindness and world peace. I still have that message in my head, but my heart has a new message.

Yesterday, my 1st born, Christopher asked his long time girlfriend, Megan to marry him! I am so thankful to be adding Megan and her family to our family tree. Not only is she beautiful, but she is funny, kind and loves my boy.

I hope each of you has a wonderful day with family and friends. This year I have an extra reason to be thankful! J

SNOW DAY

2010-11-23T08:06:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, it's beautiful, but it causes so many problems. Hundreds of cars, scattered like Hot Wheels, on the side (or middle) of the roads.

4 inches of snow should not be such a problem. It's the ice. A layer of ice under the snow is very dangerous. This morning I was watching the news, and they were showing, live, a city bus, sliding sideways down a hill. I don't want to see that in person!

Maybe, I will brush off the chairs, and build a little fire in the back yard! I remember my husband building fires in the front yard. The boys were young, and our driveway was a perfect sledding hill for them. They would come in, soaking wet, put on dry clothes and go back out. They LOVED the snow.

Now, Chris lives in a town in Idaho, where they measure the snow in feet, not inches. He has a Saint Bernard, who digs huge holes in the snow and lays in them, snow shoes hang by his back door and one of the highlights of winter is the Beard Growing Contest. (you can't make that up) He still loves the snow.

It's not so much fun at Country Village. The slight incline to get back on the Highway, is a sheet of ice. So, if you were planning on shopping with us today, stay home. Work on a UFO, and check back tomorrow, because we are staying home today. The shop is closed, along with the Northshore School District. Stay warm. J

PANTIE RAID

2010-11-22T15:17:00.000-08:00

A huge thank you to all of the Blog Hop particpants! I had over 1500 people look at my Blog on Thursday. That takes my breath away! We all had tons of fun, and positive feed back from all of you. We will be posting the grand prize winners, tomorrow. So Please check back.

Now for our next big event. This weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday,Select Quilt Shops across the country are collecting Panties and Socks for women and children. Each shop has selected a charity to donate the items. The panties and socks that are donated here, at Keepsake Cottage, will be taken to a safe house for women and children.

For every package of panties and socks that you bring in, we will give you a free fat quarter. A win-win.

A friend in the Atlanta area did this last year, and she collected hundreds of packages of undies. I think the people of the NW are a very generous group, so I am hoping to out do her this year! So, while you are shopping in the Mall at 4 am on Friday, pick up a pack or two, and drop them by the shop. It will make someones life just a little bit better. J

MISTLETOE MAKE AND BAKE DAY SIX

2010-11-19T21:05:00.000-08:00

Today is the final day of our little journey together, what fun we have all had! I have learned a lot, made new friends and have lots of great ideas. I hope you are feeling the same!

First things first, I have 2 winners from Thursdays post.

At first I thought I was going to give just one prize,

but you were all so kind, I wanted to give all 172 a prize.

That didn't seem quite possible. So, I decided to give 2.

The first prize, a zippered sewing tote,

and 9 spools of the amazing Aurifil Thread

goes to

CARAQUILTS

(insert applause here)

The second prize, 9 spools of the amazing Aurifil Thread

goes to

MRS. DILLYDALLY

(more applause)

Please email me (quilts4julie@frontier.com ) so I can get these out to you right away.

Today we are all talking about Cookie Exchanges, and tips to help you. I wish I could write this post after I read all of my fellow bloggers ideas. I am really bad at Cookie Exchanges.

I haven't been invited to participate in one for years, I'm sure it's because I have failed in the past.

There are always people with darling presentation, something a little extra. They 'cute' it up. They make complicated cookies, they have a secret twist. I am always embarrassed by my packaging.

Usually a paper plate, probably left over from a themed birthday party, and plastic wrap.

I'm sure it was all I had time to do. They always happen at the end of soccer season, with 3 boys, I spent a lot of time on soccer fields. I imagine all the other mom's had kids in soccer too, they seemed

to make it happen. I just couldn't get organized. Besides, the boys would 'sneak'

the cookies out of some of the packages. When they were small, they would

just take the Kisses off the top, and leave the cookie.

So, my advise to you is be organized, make it cute, do something extra, make fabulous cookies,

and don't invite your 'lame' friends. Just give them cookies, and a hug.

It will make everybody feel good!

I found an old recipe for today, and old friend. I haven't baked them in years,

but I'm sure I would love them as much today as I did back then.

OATMEAL SCOTCHIES

2 cups unsifted flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup butter, softened

1 1/2 cusp firmly packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp water

1 1/2 cups uncooked quick oats

1 12 oz package of Butterscotch Morsels

1/2 tsp orange extract

preheat oven to 375, in a small bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

In large bowl combine butter, brown sugar, eggs and water. Beat until creamy.

Gradually add flour mixture, stir in oats, Butterscotch Morsels and orange extract.

Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets. Bake 10 to 12 minutes.

makes 4 dozen 3 inch cookies.

Our last 2 designers are

Vickie Cook Eapen http://spunsugarquilt.com/

and my good friend Melisa Morrison http://sweethomequiltco.com/weblog/

Skip on over to see what the have going on for you today.

Now that we have become friends, don't be a stranger.

No, I don't post every day.

No, I don't post recipes. (maybe I will start)

2 or 3 times a week I share a little of what is going on in my world.

Usually it's about quilting, sometimes I toss in news of my boys, or my granddogs.

I try to make it fun and fresh.

I hope to see you soon! J

Mistletoe Make and Bake Day Five

2010-11-18T22:40:00.000-08:00

A Huge Thank you to everyone for all of your sweet comments about my project yesterday. Even with my 'techy' difficulties, you were kind and patient. If anyone out there still needs my Cookie Tray pattern, Please email me at quilts4julie@frontier.com and I will make sure you get a copy!

I will post my winner on tomorrow's post, since it is still Thursday where I live!

These are the Cookie jars that are on my kitchen counter. I love the one's from the 70's. However my super most favorite one in the entire world is the one on the right. It was painted by my youngest boy, Quinton. It is the one we really use for cookies. If you turn it around and look at the back, this is what you will see.

Quinton Stewart loves his mom, and her cookies as well. 5/17/97

This boy is now 25, he went to culinary school, is a Chef in a boutique restaurant in Seattle, Branzino. He and his father, my DH, rode their motorcycles across the country and back last spring.

I love this boy and his cookies, as well!

When I read that we were to write about a Holiday Tradition that we "had to do, no matter what" I knew that it was the cookie recipe, that I would post today. Even if the tree wasn't decorated, or if the lights were not on the house, there had to be Peanut Butter Kisses in the House!!

It doesn't matter who walks though the door, they all want my Peanut Butter kisses cookies!

This is your recipe for today.

PEANUT BUTTER KISSES

18oz peanut butter

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

2 eggs

48 Hershey Kisses (a 9oz bag has 53)

Heat oven to 350

Stir peanut butter, eggs and sugar until thoroughly blended. (dough will be sticky.)

Roll Tablespoon size balls, place on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake 12-14 minutes. (cookie will be dry on top)

remove from the oven, press the unwrapped Hershey Kiss in the center of each cookie. Transfer from cookie sheet to waxed paper. Cool and enjoy.!!

I have made these with my boys for their entire lives! When they were really little, they just unwrapped the kisses.

It was a big job for them and a joy for me. Make these easy cookies with the children you love. It will start the best memories, ever!

Today's designers are my good buddie

Roseann Kermes http://rosebudscottage.typepad.com/

and Brenda Riddle http://brendariddle.blogspot.com/

MISTLETOE MAKE AND BAKE DAY FOUR

2010-11-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

We are half way thru this fun event. I am having fun reading everyone's blogs, and collecting gift and cookie ideas, I hope you are too!

Today is my day for a project, along with Moda Lissa! What a fun partner for this event. She is very creative, so I am looking forward to her post. The pictures of her son, enjoying his cookies and milk, were pretty darned cute!

When we were asked to share our favorite Christmas book, only one thing came to mind 'the stockings were hung by the chimney with care'. I have read that story hundreds of times. My very favorite time, was always on Christmas Eve. The boys would have on their new pj's, they would be so excited, I knew they would take forever to go to sleep. I would always read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to them. All snuggled up together. Them dreaming of the morning to come, me dreading what was ahead for me. There were always things to assemble, I usually hadn't finished wrapping, and then there were the stockings. I usually had to force myself not to be upset with my husband, because he was not worried about it at all! So, those few moments of calm were always very special to me.

I hope you will have fun making these fast and easy Fabric Cookie Trays!
Fabric Cookie Tray.docx

When I was looking for a recipe for today, I looked in my Mothers wooden recipe box. I found one that sounded good, but the best part about it was under the title is said, Barbara Walters. So, if you can just imagine Barbara in a cozy kitchen, wearing an apron, this is what she might be making!

Chocolate Macaroons

Barbara Walters

1 can (14 oz) Sweetened condensed milk

4- 1 oz squares of unsweetened chocolate

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

8 oz shredded coconut

Pre heat oven to 350. Grease 2 cookie sheets.

In a double boiler, combine condensed milk, chocolate and salt.

cook over hot, not boiling water, stirring frequently, until chocolate melts and mixture thickens, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Add vanilla then the coconut. Mix well, drop by rounded teaspoons one inch apart on cookie sheets. Bake until cookies are just set, approx. 9 minutes. Remove at once and place on waxed paper. Let cool.

I made these last night, and remember to LET COOL. The coconut holds onto the heat. They were very good, I can see why Barbara enjoys them!

Today I am having a give away. Leave me a comment, and I will pick a winner. I will be sending you 2 appetizer packages of my favorite Aurifil Thread, and a zippered sewing tote!

Now, go on over to Lissa's blog and see what she has cooking.

http://modalissa.blogspot.com/

NOTICE: several of you have had difficulty opening the pattern.
I am not a very techy kind of girl. So if you will email me,
I will send you a copy of the pattern!
It's fun, easy, and I want you all to make one! Julie
quilts4julie@frontier.com

Misteltoe Make and Bake Day Three

2010-11-16T21:55:00.000-08:00

It's Day Three of our big adventure. I don't know about you, but I feel like baking!! Some of the recipes have been amazing.

Today we are talking about how to start a conversation at a Cocktail party. This can be difficult, especially if you are the only stranger in the room.

I remember years ago going to my husbands office party. They asked him to dress as Santa. It seemed like it would be fun, but it turned out to be one of the worst parties I had ever attended. I was a young mom, I had been looking forward to a night out without the kids. My husband was the most popular man at the party, but he didn't have time to introduce me to his colleges or even chat with me. I decided that night, that I would always look for the 'stranger' in the crowd, and talk with them. People love to tell you about themselves, their family's and their careers. Try it, you just might make a friend, and I know you will make some one's evening much more comfortable.

Isn't this little guy cute! Last Christmas my son, Christopher and his girlfriend Megan, painted this for me. He would never be lonely at a party!

My Mom used to make these cookies when I was a little girl.

I loved it when she baked them in the afternoon, just before I came home from school. Spicy, thick, chewey cookies with crackled sugary tops.

Molasses Crinkles

3/4 cup soft butter

1 cup brown sugar (packed)

1 egg

1/4 cup molasses

2 1/4 cups sifted flour

2 tsp soda

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cloves1tsp cinnamon

1tsp ginger.

Mix thoroughly butter, brown sugar, egg and molasses. Sift together dry ingredients and stir in. Chill Dough. Heat oven to 375. Roll dough into balls the size of large walnuts. Dip tops in sugar. Place sugar-side-up 3" apart on greased baking sheet. Sprinkle each with 2 or 3 drops of water to make a cracked surface. Bake 10 - 12 minutes. Just until set, but not hard. Makes about 4 dozen.

Now hop on over to Celinehttp://www.perkinsdrygoods.com/blog/

Patrick http://www.patricklose.blogspot.com/

and

Kelly Ann http://www.kellyannsquilting.blogspot.com/

Now, I am off to try my recipe for tomorrows post!

MISTLETOE MAKE AND BAKE DAY TWO

2010-11-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the second day of the Mistletoe Make and Bake. I loved Sherri's project yesterday. How about you?

We all have things in our "bag 'o tricks to help us get through the Holiday Season. I used to feel like I should decorate inside and out, every room in the house. But, after a couple of stressful years, I realized it really is all about the people you love. So, I have scaled back. I have a large cookie jar collection, so I pull out some cute, chunky cookie jars, sprinkle a few quilts here and there and call it 'decorated'. It's helped save my sanity!

I was given this recipe many years ago, by the Grandmother of a friend. She baked them every day! The mailman counted on it!

Drop Sugar Cookies

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup butter

1 cup vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 Tablespoon Vanilla

1/2 tsp. salt

4 cups plus 4 Tablespoons flour

1 tsp soda

1 tsp Cream of Tartar (her secret ingredient)

cream sugars with butter. Beat oil and eggs. Add vanilla, mix dry ingredients, and add gradually. Roll in small balls, place on cookie sheet. Press with glass dipped in sugar.

bake at 375 for about 8 minutes

watch carefully, do not let them turn brown.

Now go over and see what Heidi http://blog.heidikaisand.com/

and Monique http://opengatequilts.com/id69.html

are cooking up today.

Remember to post on every ones blog, to be eligible for the big prize basket!

Mistletoe Make and Bake

2010-11-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first day of the Mistletoe Make and Bake. We have all been so excited to bring a few ideas to all of you, to make your Holiday season the best ever!

Santa has always been a magical man in our home. When our 3 sons would go to bed on Christmas eve, the tree would be lit, the stockings would be hung, but there were no gifts under the tree. If you believed in the Magic of Christmas, the tree would be full when morning came.

They are all adults now, but all of the gifts under the tree come from Santa. Who is going to argue with that?

When my boys asked for Yummy Cookies. I always had the ingredients in the pantry. This is an easy 'go to ' cookie recipe when you need something at the last minute.

YUMMY COOKIES

Combine in a sauce pan and boil one minute:

1/4 cup butter

2 cups sugar

1/2 cup milk

4 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa

pinch of salt

Remove from heat and stir in quickly

1/2 cup peanut butter

3 cups quick oats

1 tsp. vanilla

Drop by teaspoonful onto waxed paper and let set overnight

Head over to Sherri's http://thisandthatpatterns.typepad.com/ blog to see what project she has planned for you today.

FYI, my good Buddie Monica, aka The Happy Zombie had to drop out of the hop at the last minute. We will miss her, but you can still show her some love! Click on my sidebar to go visit her!

2010-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

At Quilt Market the designers are like stars on the red carpet. Constantly posing for photos and answering questions. When I was talking with Liesl from Oliver & S, she tried to get in the best lighting in her booth! Her patterns are so adorable, I love them. Little paper dolls model her designs. How super cute it that. I loved Betsy McCall when I was a little girl, how about you?

Barb and Mary from Me & My Sister are super fun girls. They had us hold an iron in it's own little cozy, like it was an award. Lots of laughs in their booth. And the iron cozy is darling. One of my buddies, Nanci Quick from the Quilted Kitty is going to make them for all of the irons in her class room!

Kathy Schmitz has brought her Crackle back!! I know lots of you will be happy to hear that. Her newest fabric collection is all printed on Crackle. Pretty wonderful. Her panel is printed embroidery blocks. So, if you love the look of embroidery, but don't have the time to do it. This will be a collection you won't want to miss. Of course, if you love embroidery, her patterns are wonderful. We still have space in our Winsome Wreath Club, if you have thought about joining. Her projects are beautiful.

There were many wonderful moments at market that weren't captured in a photo. Most of them involved my wonderful friends from across the country. All of us shop owners wanting to create the best quilt shops ever for our community of quilters and home sewers. We exchanged thoughts and ideas late into the night. We are working on a 'giving' project that will involve all of our favorite customers. Watch for that next week.

Don't forget the Blog Hop- Mistletoe Make and Bake starting on Monday! J

2010-11-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

Get ready for 13 fun holiday projects, from 13 designers! A cross country Blog Hop, starting next Monday. 6 Days of projects, cookies recipes and holiday memories.

Monday: Sherri Falls http://thisandthatpatterns.typepad.com/
Tuesday: Heidi Kaisand http://blog.heidikaisand.com/
Tuesday: Monique Dillard http://opengatequilts.com/id69.html
Wednesday:Celine Perkins http://www.perkinsdrygoods.com/blog/
Wednesday: Patrick Lose http://patricklose.blogspot.com/
Wednesday: Kelly Ann Richardson http://kellyannsquilting.blogspot.com/
Thursday: Lissa Alexander http://modalissa.blogspot.com/
Thursday: Julie Stewart (that's me kids) http://keepsakecottagefabrics.blogspot.com/
Friday: Roseann Kermes http://rosebudscottage.typepad.com/
Friday: Brenda Riddle http://brendariddle.blogspot.com/
Saturday: Vickie Cook Eapen http://spunsugarquilt.com/
Saturday: Melisa Morrison http://sweethomequiltco.com/weblog/

Doesn't this look like a great line up! We're all cooking up a little fun for you so

please join us next week! J

MARKET RECAP

2010-11-07T10:03:00.000-08:00

I have been home from Market for 5 days, and it's been a whirlwind here! Finally I have a few moments to post a few pictures of my Quilty Friends!

This is Joanna, from Fig Tree Quilts. I always love her booth. The colors, and the traditional designs just draw me in. Joanna has become a good friend. We have danced the night away at many Quilt Market parties!

These are the Blackbird Ladies. Alma and Barb. Their quilts are breath taking, and they are the sweetest women. People were lined up for autographs and photos. As you can see, they didn't know which way to turn!

Their newest book was hot off the press, we will have it in the shop next week.

Ann Sutton, from Bunny Hill Designs, is a delight. Her fabric line, Lilly and Will, was delivered to the shop this week, and they have added 2 new color ways, yellow and soft turquoise. And look at that super cute sailboat quilt, darling!

Quilts, Inc. still won't let Miss Rosie in the show. So, Carrie Nelson has to go it alone! Every time I walked past her booth there were lots of people talking to her, and she always had a smile on her face. Her new fabric line just makes everyone happy!

There are more pictures to come. Some of the things I bought for the shop are Kwik Sew Patterns. Childrens clothes, doll clothes, pj pants and aprons. These are great sewing patterns that have been tested and retested for your success!

I spent many hours with my shop owner friends, sharing ideas about making the best shops ever for our favorite customers. I am ready to dig in and work hard for you! J

SCHOOL HOUSE IN HOUSTON

2010-10-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

gThe first big day of activities during Qui t Market is School House. Eight hours of classes. The classes are either15 or 30 minutes, and are as varied as the vendors on the show floor. We see new tools, clubs and fabric. I try to go the the classes with designers I know my customers love. So that I can see what new patterns, books or fabric lines I should be looking for once market opens.

Jo Morton always has a packed house. They hold up her quilts and we are all trying to take pictures from a far. Seeing these quilts in person is a wonderful treat. The rooms are bright and I was far away, but I tried to snap a few pictures for you to see.

This quilt was amazing.

The number of fabrics used to create her scrapy look, takes years to collect. Her quilts have depth and richness.

I went to classes with Alex Anderson, Darlene Zimmerman,Nancy Zieman, Eleanor Burns and Elizabeth Scott. Great Samples and wonderful ideas.

Quilters I saw across the room-Pam Kitty Morning,Kaffe Fasset Jinny Beyer, Elly Sinkiewicz and the Swirley Girls.

It was a great day, and I will take more pictures tomorrow, when the market floor opens. j

FALL 2010

2010-10-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

I love the fall. I love the crisp mornings, and the warm afternoons. I love the colors of the trees, the mum's and I love fall fabric.

Months ago, I thought about the great blog posts I would write during the fall. I planned to take lots of pictures of Fall Colors. What happened? Where did the Fall go? Last week I was thinking how beautiful it was. My husband was lamenting about the lawn. We wore jackets and sat outside in the evening.

It's raining, the wind has been howling for 3 days. The beautiful leaves are gone. There's no sitting outside in the evening. But, Safeway still has fall colors! Look at the wonderful graphics on these giant boxes of pumpkins! Beautiful. Who are the grocery store 'designers'?

And the displays! Do they keep those cute wooden crates in the stock room all year, just to drag them out for Fall? Or if I look other times of the year, will I see them? Who would think Watermelon and Pumpkins would work together? Makes me want pie and salad! Beautiful.

Oh, and the gourds! Bumpy and colorful, in a cute little basket. And look at those cute little pumpkins all wrapped up in orange net! Green, orange, white and yellow!

I must admit that Orange is my favorite color right now! You can't have a bad day if you wrap yourself in Orange!

You never know where you will find color inspiration. These colors just might show up in my next quilting project!

Stay tuned, I am going to Fall Quilt Market. ( Where it is 90 degrees with 87% humidity.) I will update you on a daily basis with ideas, color trends, and quilt super star sightings! J

THE REST OF THE STORY

2010-10-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

I love my fall quilt retreat. I love my Killer Bee Girlfriends. We have a secret wave, and love all things Bee's. I thought you would enjoy seeing some of the projects we worked on.

This was a gift made by one of the Bee's. Stinkin' Cute Scissor Fobs. We all had a lesson in twisting embroidery floss to make the little cording.

This was the pile of Bee parts. It was a secret hiding in plain sight! Pam is so sneaky!

One of the things I worked on was a very scrappy quilt. I have been saving 2 x 3 1/2 rectangles. They make a really cute block, and a super scrappy FREE quilt top!

Our Queen of the Hive, Laurie, was working on this beautiful French General quilt. She can make perfect points, even if the hive is swarming with activity.

Pam loves her turtles. She is one with her machine. Whether it's machine applique or machine quilting!

Kay worked all weekend on this wonderful fall quilt. It is from a 10 year old book from Country Threads. It has aged nicely, and the project is fabulous!

Cleo worked on many things. My favorite was a Dirndl for an October Fest party she was attending. Darn, where was my camera? This block is going to be a quilt for a dear friend.

Betsy loves a Cowboy Quilt. Cowboy Bob has been her go to, snuggle up quilt for a few years. This is really a Cowgirl Quilt. Really great fabrics!

Our Head Drone, Suzanne, was very buzzzy. She made 2 table runners from 1 charm pack, and a little extra fabric. Beautiful!

There were many other projects. Lots of laughter, great food, a little shopping and ice cream for the Ferry ride home.

Best retreat buddies, ever!

Pin Cushions

2010-10-15T15:45:00.001-07:00

I love pin cushions. I have lots of them. Old and new. I don't really use a lot of pins. But, I have pincushions at every station. On the cutting table, on the ironing board, on the coffee table, next to my sewing machine. I just love them. Last week I was on a retreat with my BFF's, I took a few pictures of everyone's pincushions. I thought you would enjoy them.

Isn't this one wonderful! So organized, and perfect.

This is actually 2 at one station. The little one is filled with Lavender. A gift at a previous retreat. Remember this In The Beginning Floral?

What's cuter that red and white? Very functional, almost looks like little polka dots!

I hate to admit that this one is mine! I keep it in a travel bag, when I fly to far away retreats. It's tiny and adorable. Kay Hobby made all of the Keepsake Cottage girls one of these for Christmas a couple of years ago. I should have done a little organization before the photo shoot.

Jam packed, a little Blue Bird and on a pink mat. Stinkin' cute!

Look at those darling pins!! They look like buttons on a stick. Perfect.

Do you recognise this one? It was the before picture of the 1st pin cushion of the post! BFF Betsy, you are so adorable!

Okay, Vicky wins some kind of a prize! Can you tell that she is an office manager for our local High School? My mom had that same seam ripper, and our dog Cindy, took a bite out of the handle. It still had a lot of 'good' left in it, so she used it for years!

Retreats are the best. Gather up your BFF's and your favorite sewing supplies and plan a weekend. You won't be sorry! J

SPECIAL DELIVERY!

2010-10-11T12:27:00.000-07:00

I am a lucky girl. I get packages delivered to the shop almost every day. Wonderful packages, filled with wonderful quilty goodness. Fabric, notions, books, patterns. Everything a quilter could ask for.

Not every box is as Stinkin' Cute as this one!

Not every box comes from McCall, Idaho. McCall has many wonderful things. My favorite things are my son Christopher and his girlfriend Megan. They sent this darling box.

What could it be? It looks like plastic bags, and a little fabric.

OMG! It is a block of the month embroidery kit! Rosalie Quinlan Designs, an Australian artist. With red, turquoise and yellow fabric!! Super Duper Darling!

They bought it at the most adorable shop in McCall, Huckleberry Patches!

This is what it will look like when I get it finished. Oh My, is this cute or what?

See, I told you I was a lucky girl!

FIG TREE CLUB

2010-10-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to be an Exclusive Fig Tree Club Shop! This means that 4 times a years, Joanna Figueroa will design patterns that will only be sold in these shops. There are only 30 shops around the country that were invited to be members. We will be having our first Club meeting next week, we hope you will join and be a part of the 'in' crowd!

With a one year membership, you will receive 4 exclusive patterns from Fig Tree, 10%off all things Fig Tree on the evening of your meeting, special on-line coupons to be used on Fig Tree's web site. Plus lots of ideas using Fig Tree pattens and Fabrics.

It's no secret that I love Joanna's fabric. Just look around in the shop. Our Fig Tree section is always messy, because you, my favorite customers, are searching for the newest or a little piece of an older group, or maybe a surprise you forgot was out there.

The soft vintage look seems to never go out of style. It's just like 'buttah'!

Here is a sneak peek at the pattern, Twinkle. We are using the newest collection, Breakfast at Tiffany's, but honestly it would be beautiful in any Fig Tree Jelly Roll.

Come join our club! We are going to have a great time, and you won't want to miss it!

2010-09-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

When I was at Quilt Market in May, I talked with Polly Minick and Laurie Simpson about having a trunk show of their quilts. Yesterday the box arrived!! Yes, there are 3 beautiful quilts, made by these talented sisters, hanging in the shop. They are truly breath taking, my pictures don't do them justice. The 1st quilt is 3 Brothers Farm. We all loved this pattern when it first came out, made with Flag Day Farm fabric.

Now, they have remade it using their newest collection Claremont Farm. It is wonderful. Many of the blue fabrics in this collection are softer than usual, giving it a time worn look. I love that they used a floral grid for the flags.

This is a wonderful scrappy quilt named for their brother. Patrick's Patchwork. It looks complex, but the piecing is really very straight forward. It makes me want to go home and pull out all of the red, white and blue fabrics in my sewing room! Of course I would need to add a few more, the more fabrics the better!

This is Alma's Quilt. I thought it was sweet of them to name a quilt after one of the BlackBird Ladies, then I read the back of the pattern. Their maternal Grandmother was named Alma, also a very sweet thought. This is really a striking quilt, simple and sophisticated. This photo does not come close to showing you how beautiful it really is. The way they have sprinkled a few tan fabrics in the triangles makes it sparkle. And the large red triangles are yummy!

These quilts are beautifully quilted. You need to come in are stare at them for a while, you will be happy you did!

One more thing. Tomorrow is the first day of the 91 Mile Yard Sale, don't miss it! Great bargains all up and down I-5 in your LQS's! J

FUN WITH SELVAGES

2010-09-23T12:08:00.001-07:00

Selvages have always been there. They are tightly woven, you need to cut them off before you start your projects. They give you information. It's not always the same, but usually the style number and the manufacturer of the fabric are printed there. More recently, a designers name has been added. A web site, perhaps. So, you can go and see what other goodies they print.

They have always had colored dots. These are the different colors of screens that were used in printing the fabric. Some people use those dots to find coordinating colors to go with the print.

We have noticed that the dots have changed. They don't have to be dots. Just a place for a spot of color. This Halloween fabric has spiders!

And, this fall fabric has acorns! I have been saving selvages for a while now. They are like a little time capsule of what has come through the shop doors. Some of my employees have given me their selvages.

I have seen few projects made with them. We saw a wonderful purse during the Shop Hop. A friend at quilt market had a little pouch around her neck for her name badge. Atkinson Designs show a coin purse made with them. Many years ago, Jinny Beyer made a house block using selvages with her name, like bricks.

I am not sure what I will make. Something wonderful, I am sure.

But, wait, look at this. A gift on my desk this morning from one of my employees. It was made of selvages, my heart skipped a beat....

Oh, MY!! A clip board. How stinkin' cute is this? I am a very lucky girl. Selvages, rick rack, ribbon and buttons! All on a clip board just for me!! Thank you, Kay! You are a sweet heart! J

SHOW TULA SOME LOVE!

2010-09-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

I love having fabric in my shop from the best designers in the world. Some of them are recognised by just one name, you know like Cher. Tula Pink is one of those designers. Her fabrics are fun, amazing works of art. You know she has a twinkle in her eye as she is drawing them.

I only buy fabric that is designed and printed for independent fabric stores. Nothing that would be in a chain or discount house comes into my shop.

Today when I read Tula Pinks blog, www.tulapink.com about Walmart carrying a knock off of her fabric it made me sick. I want all my readers to know if you shop for fabric at Walmart that looks like Tula Pink's designs. It is not. And, it is not printed on the same quality fabric, as the fabric offered in independent stores.

Thanks for listening! Go read Tula's blog post. J

WEEKEND ACTIVITIES

2010-09-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you love to driving down a country road, and come across a barn with quilts hanging on it? Or hanging on a clothes line airing out. They say in Amish Country, when you see quilts hanging on the line they are probably for sale. What a dream come true!

When I have been in Amish Country in Wisconsin, I always stop at the Gingerbread Dairy, and buy a little cheese. Not only is it wonderful, but it is fun to meet the family that owns the dairy. Knowing they milked the cows for the cheese is comforting in an old fashioned way. I found out this summer they are not Amish, but Mennonite. So, I have had to change my story a bit. There are farms that are worked with horse and plow, and they 'go to town' in horse and buggy. Romantic, somehow.

This weekend, when you are in the mood for a little fabric from a barn (that would be Keepsake Cottage), I thought you should know about the other fun activities that will be going on here.

From 11-2 we will have Pirates on the playground. It's a celebration of the Jolly Rodney, the pirate ship on the playground. Named for Rod Loveless. The owner, and creative mind behind Country Village. Now, in his 80's, you can still see him driving a forklift from time to time.

There will be Pirate Booty in many of the shops, and special lunch offerings at Papa's Place.

We hope the Patchwork Pirates will show up! They always come during Shop Hop, but maybe...

If that's not enough excitement for you, there will be Belly Dancing on the stage! Ottoman Trading Company has several fun events each year with music, henna tattoos, dancing demonstrations and food. It's always lively!

So, if you have to bring your kids or you husbands along for the ride, there will be something for everyone here tomorrow!

Hope to see you soon. J

BLISS

2010-09-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love Red, Pink and Turquoise. They are the colors of happiness. The Happy Zombie has adopted them as her own. You just can't be sad or mad if you surround yourself with these colors. That's why Bliss is the perfect name for Bonnie and Camille's newest fabric group. It arrived in the shop today, and everyone is smiling!

Bonnie and Camille are a mother-daughter design team. Bonnie has designed quilt patterns under the name Cotton Way for over 20 years.

Camille's company, Thimble Blossoms is just a couple of years old. She is a young mom, with lots of fresh ideas for young (and young at heart) quilters.

These fabrics are wonderful, and we have them in both flat and flannel! Come on in and capture a little Bliss for yourself!

ARNOLD'S ATTIC

2010-09-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a beautiful collection of fabric arrived in the shop. It's Barbara Brackman's newest collection from Moda, Arnold's Attic. Along with the fabric, there was a flyer with information about Barbara's pen pal Arnold Savage. I thought you might find it interesting.

Barbara Brackman is a fabric/quilt historian. I have been a quilter for 25 years, and her name has always been quoted in the books and articles I have read about the history of quilts. She has designed fabric for Moda, based on her large collection of antique quilts and fabric.

Arnold Savage lives in Ohio, in a home that his family has lived in for several generations. His mother, aunts and grandmother were all quilters. In the 1930's Arnold was ill with rheumatic fever, and his mother taught him to quilt, while he was bedridden. He made over 1000 9 patches! He then moved to hexagons and on to applique.

Through the years, Arnold has been sending Barbara fabric swatches, often with a note that said 'I found this in the attic'. Using these vintage pieces, Barbara designed this line of fabric as a tribute to Arnold and his family. The fabrics are all named for family members and land marks in Arnold's home town, in Ohio.

If you would like to read about the history of the fabrics themselves, go to www.barbarabrackman.blogspot.com and scroll down to August 22, 2010.

We have a few Arnold's Attic kits available in the shop. J

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2010-09-01T11:36:00.001-07:00

Aunt Bea's Baskets

2010-08-31T11:37:00.000-07:00

One of the cute shops in McCall, ID is 'Selectable Collectibles'. I like to poke around when I am in town. This year I need to design a Bird House quilt block, for our Tri County Quilt Tour. They always have cute hand made bird houses. I was hoping for a little inspiration. There were some darling ones on the porch. I took a few pictures, and then wondered in with my Sister-in-law, Lisa. We loved the Raggedy Annie's, the cute country signs, all of the lodge looking stuff. There were really cute baby things and Christmas items. But, when I came around the corner and saw this hand embroidered, hand and machine quilted Aunt Bea's Basket quilt, I knew it was my Lucky Day!

I had the feeling that I should tuck it under my arm, and quietly tip-toe to the front desk. Making sure that know one grabbed it from me! I hoped that the shop owner would concider me quilt worthy! Several of my customers have made this quilt, doing it as a block of the month from the McCall Quilt Shop, Huckleberry Patches. I have been a little 'Jelly-Bean', but not any more. It's mine, all mine.

Stop by the shop and check it out. Each of the basket is different. Here is a close up of a sweet little pansy basket. And, check out the reproduction fabrics. It is wonderful. I am home from McCall. Leaving my sweet son behind. However, it was a little easier, with this sweet quilt in the passenger seat on the way home. J

McCall, Idaho

2010-08-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

What does every good quilt shop owner do when she goes out of town? She visits the local quilt shop!! In Mc Call, Idaho, the LQS is Huckleberry Patches. I love this shop. The owners stitch all winter getting ready for the summer tourists, so each year when I come the shop is full of beautiful new samples.

This quilt greats you in the parking lot. Love the scalloped border!

And look at this cute butterfly block, the embroidery and quilting make it come to life.

Last summer one of the shop owners brought this block into the shop while I was there. It was so beautiful. I have encouraged Joyce to do this as a Block of the Month. Who's in?

Today, when I walked into the shop, this masterpiece was hanging on the wall. Amazing. It is from the book, A Graceful Garden.

I love Mc Call, Huckleberry Patches is not the only reason I visit.

My first born, Christopher, lives here. Love this guy (boy)! J

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2010-08-25T13:47:00.001-07:00

Weekend Sewing

2010-08-23T12:12:00.001-07:00

I did a little sewing this weekend, and thought I would share. I have a little group of quilters I like to call "Julie's Girls", that meet once a month. They started with a beginning quilting class in the Spring of 2009, and took to quilting like 'ducks to water'. This year they want to learn different techniques, so they can finish some of their Shop Hop blocks. I believe they have done 3 Hops now, should I tell them now or later, that they may never finish all of their blocks?

In September they want to learn how to foundation paper piece, so I worked on a little Halloween sample for them. I think it turned out pretty cute. However, when I showed Mr. Quilts4julie the first block, he thought it was a lighthouse.

Then, I moved on to bags. I have seen some 'snap' bags, ordered some patterns, and thought I should give them a try. This cutie is Snap Happy II. The thing that makes them a Snap bag is the closure. You use a metal tape measure, and they snap closed! Mr. Quilts4julie was very helpful with this project. He cut 2 of his tape measures for me. This bag called for a 1" tape.

and, this one used a 3/4" tape measure. He was very careful and used a drumel tool to round the edges. Now that he has cut up two tape measures, he is going to cut the rest of the tapes, and round them off, so I can have them in the shop. So, you don't have to cut up your husbands tape measures! Nice guy, huh?

I love my sewing weekends! J

OUR SCHNIBBLES WINNER

2010-08-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

Our Schnibbles winner is Pam Cope! She made the Little Red Wagon pattern from the Schnibbles Times Two book. It is beautiful in these bright pastel fabrics. Pam mixed 2 layer cakes, one from the Eden collection and the second one is a pastel Moda Marbles layer cake. Did you realize that you can get Moda Marbles in layer cakes? They come in several color combinations, and work well with many fabric collections.

Pam's quilting is beautiful. She recently bought a long arm machine, and seems to be a natural. Just look at those feathers!

It is a beautiful quilt, and my fingers are crossed that the Martingale, Moda and Miss Rosie people pick it as their winner! Good Luck, Pam!

Got 10 minutes?

2010-08-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a really cute fabric arrives in the shop, and I want to use it, but I'm not sure what I want to make. With my boys all grown, and no grandkids yet, I tend to pass up the great novelty prints that are on the market.

When I was in Wisconsin at my retreat one of the shop owners, Melisa from The Sweet Home Quilt Company, shared a pattern with us. She calls it a 10 Minute Table runner. Last week I decided to try it. I must admit, it took me 12 minutes, because I had forgotten to get out the ironing board and turn the iron on.

But, look at how stinking cute this thing is!! Easy, Peasy. Jan is helping me 'tweek' the instructions, and then we will have a free handout, with a fabric purchase. You will be making them for everyone on your gift list. J

SUMMER VACATION

2010-08-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

It's vacation week for Mr. Quilts4julie and I. We are enjoying the sun in beautiful Lake Chelan. There are many multi-generational family's vacationing here. Today, 2 little boys in the pool were taking joy in pushing their Grandpa off of his float. Grandma was secretly helping them. I look forward to those days.

I love small towns, and Chelan pulls out all the stops for it's summer visitors. This cement bear is always on the corner to welcome you to town.

Pretty inviting bench! And, it my new favorite color combination. My newest Atkinson's Design quilt would look beautiful draped over the arm of the settee.

Here is the LQS, (local quilt shop), Rosie is well know in this area. Great shop, be sure to visit when you visit Central WA.

She still has adorable 4th of July decoration's in her window. Another great sign of small town life.

I have my sewing machine set up, and I have been working on several projects. Stay tuned for show and tell. J

THE LAST DAY OF QUILT CAMP

2010-08-01T10:10:00.001-07:00

On the final day of Quilt Camp we spent time talking about demo's that the shop owners do in their shops. I learned a lot! Not only about tools that are new to me, but different ways to use some of the tools already in the shop.

This is Margie Wallace, holding a 'fat quarter tree'. We learned lots of new and creative ways of folding fat quarters. Some of them are so cute, I'm not sure anyone would ever unwrap them!

By the time we got around to taking a group photo, quite a few of the campers had hit the road. Two nice ladies stopped by the retreat house for a tour. So, we had them take a photo of the last to leave.

This was supposed to be a nice photo of Terry and I, but look carefully, and you will see Kelly Ann sneaking behind us. She is always the life of the party! Her shop is in Warrenton, VA, check out her website and blog http://www.kellyannsquilting.com/

We had a wonderful time, lots of sewing, laughing, ideas exchanged and conversations about what it means to own a quilt shop in different parts of the country. This retreat feeds my soul. I am excited to put lots of new ideas to work. J

Still Having Fun in Wisconsin

2010-07-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

This is the newest Atkinison pattern that we have been working on this week. We think it is going to be called 4 on the Floor. We have all been busy sewing our own version. This one is Laura's. Her quilt shop, Cotton Patch is in Sarasotta, Fl. Her fabric is bright batiks.

This Black and White version with red center's is Laurel's from Bear Patch in White Bear Lake, MN. The graphics are wonderful.

These are blocks from Kelly Ann, from, Kelly Ann's Quilting in Virginia. There is Shelly in the forground sewing away. She is always way ahead of us. Sewing without distraction is her speciality! Her shop is The Quilted Forest in Forest City, Iowa, and she designs some of my favorite table runner patterns, the little lamenated cards from Pieced Tree Designs.

This is my quilt top. Sea Brease, Spa Day, Beach Glass. It reminds me of a calming day. I am totally in love with this quilt top, the colors and the design!

Here was a fun little project last night. A wine gift bag. I used the sweet poinsetta fabric from Holiday Happy. You all know how I feel about that entire group. It was fun to cut into it a little bit. I feel a big girl quilt coming on, however.

This is an amazing retreat, some of these women have become such wonderful friends. I don't want it to end. J

Quilt Shop Owners on Retreat

2010-07-26T21:32:00.001-07:00

Quilt shop owners love a retreat as much as our customers do. This is my big retreat week. I have traveled to Amish country in Wisconsin to join 19 other quilt shop owners from across the country. This is my 3rd year to attend. I have made wonderful friends, and terrific samples for the shop. It might be my favorite week of the year. Tonight we all covered little note books, and told a little about ourselves. Mine was covered with cherries and had a little button. Pretty adorable.

Terry Atkinson is our hostess. She has great ideas for helping our customers be successful. We always get to sew with patterns that are not on the market yet, by the time the patterns are printed, we all have finished samples to show you, our favorite customers.

She always has the cutest tablescapes. Tonight theme was "Ice Cream Social" Decorated with darling bags and kits for us to sew later this week.

The table runner was from her book "Let's do Lunch". I know many of you have it in your library. Dig it out and make this bright runner for a summer party!

There is lots of fun to come over the next 3 days. I love that it is still Monday. J

Holiday Happy!

2010-07-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

I know it seems like Christmas everyday here at Keepsake Cottage, but there are some days that make you giddy. Yesterday was one of those days. UPS Rob dropped off 4 boxes marked Lecien in our courtyard. Yes, 4 bundles of Joy! It's like getting 4 baby dolls under the Christmas tree. Three of us grabbed scissors, to open the boxes. This is the first box we opened. The most adorable Christmas fabric, ever. Designed by the amazing Monica Snow, better known as The Happy Zombie. Her color selection is out of this world, and Lecien's printing is beautiful. When they teamed up, I knew it would be fabulous. I was not disappointed.

There was singing and a little dancing as we unpacked the boxes. UPS Rob wasn't sure what to do with us!

Just look at those little Christmas Gnome's!

This guy has a cherry on his hat. What could be cuter than that, I ask you? My heart is skipping a beat just looking at the pictures!! J

Vintage Needle Cases

2010-07-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

I love old sewing notions. Even a partially used spool of thread brings a smile to my face. I wonder about the woman who was using it. Was it just for mending, or was she making clothes for her children? It's all so romantic.

This adorable wool puppy is one of my favorite finds. Just look at that face! I have never seen another one like it, so I imagine someone handmade it for a child.

When I find these little needle cases, I leave them just as I found them. With needle and thread ready for the sewers next stitches. This little hat isn't fancy, but I find it very charming.

This isn't a needle case, but it belongs in the Cutest Pincushion Hall of Fame! It's a sweet kitty wristlet. You would be smiling the entire time you were sewing if you were wearing this!

When I look through my collection of Vintage sewing supplies, it makes me want to find the nearest Antique Shop! I know there are wonderful things out there that I haven't found yet! J

A Couple of Reminders

2010-07-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to carve out a little sewing time yesterday. It was wonderful. No deadline pressures, just a little 'me' time. One of the things I worked on was my 9-patch project. I have not been keeping my promise to make one 9-patch a day this summer. I was out of town, trying to catch up, having shop hop, inventory, celebrating the 4th of July and a week of heat. Well there they are, all of my excuses. The wonderful news is, I can can catch up! I made 10 blocks yesterday! And, am heading to my sewing room to make a couple more before I leave for the shop this morning.

I thought I would remind you about the 9-patch project, so if you had fallen behind, or hadn't started yet, it's not to late. Jump on board. I want to have a September Show and Tell with lots of great quilts. So, keep sewing!

The other reminder is the Schnibbles Contest. I hope you are working on a quilt for this contest. They need to be completed and turned into the shop by July 31. I am looking forward to seeing your creations! J