Fresh Comfort

All done

2011-02-15T16:04:00.000-08:00

I finally finished Joanna's blocks. I'm sorry they are so very late. I put them in the mail last Friday so you should have them soon, if they haven't arrived already. Your tutorial was easy and these were great fun to make. In fact, I think I will make a zig-zag quilt for myself. This would be a great way to use up my scraps.
Well ladies, that is all for me. I don't know if the plan is to keep this blog up or not, but if so, I hope to see all of the quilts once they are finished.
It has been nice working with you.
Happy quilting!

Heather's Block

2011-01-19T07:19:00.000-08:00

I know this is late, but I finally got it done. I didn't have quite enough to make two full blocks but I managed to get about one whole and about a fourth of another with absolutely no fabric left to spare. I hope your hubby likes his quilt. I will get your block in the mail today or tomorrow at the latest.
Tonight I will knock out Joanna's block and then I will be done. Wow, I can't believe a whole year has gone by!

All Caught Up!

2010-12-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

I have really enjoyed quilting with all of you! I hate that I got so behind in the end, but all my blocks are done and headed out in the mail today.

First up are the two blocks that I did for Debbie. I hope they work well for you. There just wasn't enough fabric to do two blocks so I added some solid fabrics from my own stash. I love the colors in your fabrics--they're so festive without being the traditional red and green.

Next are Heather's Wonky Log Cabins. I feel like I'm getting pretty good at these--I think these are the blocks that we've done the most of. I had enough fabric to do one whole block and about half of the second one for you. I hope your hubby loves his quilt!

Finally, here are Joanna's Zig-Zag blocks. These were more of a challenge than I expected. I had to fight with the zigs a bit to get them to line up with the zags. LOL! I love the look of them so much, though--I would love to do a whole quilt for myself using your tutorial. I just need to mark a few other things off of my list first.Are we all going to continue posting our quilts as we assemble them? Has anyone actually started assembling? I have all my blocks stashed away waiting for me to find the time to play with them.

December Blocks...Final month!

2010-12-17T19:55:00.001-08:00

Hi all!

Just letting you know that I finally sent out the December blocks on Friday so you should get them this week sometime. I don't expect anyone to do anything until after the Holidays, so you can breathe a little and take your time with them:)

This month we are doing zig zag blocks. They're quite simple, and I have pre-cut all the fabric for you, so that should make it extra easy:)

I also made a tutorial for the blocks and put it on my blog here.

I did the same blocks with my other online group and about half the ladies ran into a problem - they didn't read all the way through the instructions before they started and didn't realize that you need to sew half the pieces one way, and the other half the opposite way. If you read all the instructions first you will be fine - it's really an easy block, really just a variation on flying geese.

I have included enough pieces to make 2 blocks. For each block you will use 4 red rectangles, 4 blue rectangles, and 16 brown squares. I have included a few extra brown squares just in case :) Feel free to substitute any of your own fabrics for mine if you think they will work, and keep the ones you take out.

I love it if you made the HST's I show in the tutorial. You can either keep them or send them back to me - I would definitely use them, but I don't mind if you keep them!

Have fun, and if you have any questions, just let me know!

-Joanna (quiltamomma)
quiltamomma@yahoo.com

Debbie's blocks

2010-12-17T17:24:00.000-08:00

Well, I apologize for being so late on these. September my (ex) husband asked for a divorce, (after 21 years) so I have had a hard time getting out of bed, let alone sewing. I have finally finished Debbie's blocks though. Due to moving, and forwarding confusion, I ended up with 2 packets of fabric, so I tried to make 4 blocks. (I felt guilty that it took me so long to get to them), I didn't have quite enough fabric, but I had a half yard of figgy pudding, so I used a bit to supplement.
Blogger is not letting me add photos right now, I will try later. They are in our Flickr group right now though!

getting caught up!

2010-12-14T11:17:00.000-08:00

Before the last post I had completely forgotten about our group on flickr and I see you all have been talking and I apologize for having forgot. Anyway, im here now and Im mostly all caught up! October ended up being WAY busy. Apparently THAT is wedding season, not May/ June. And to top it all off my husband and I found out were going to have a kiddo! So things have been different and busy.

There wasnt quite enough for 2 blocks but I did what I could to get something started for you!

and Im working on Heathers block.

Debbie's Block

2010-12-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

Debbie, an envelope turned up in my envelope a couple of weeks ago from Katie, and inside were fabrics to do your block! I finally got it done today and will get it out to you in the next few days. It looks weird in the pic because there are white strips on the outsides of the block, and the background it's on is white! Hope you enjoy putting the quilt together!

Heather's Blocks

2010-12-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

Heather, I finished your blocks - yes that is blocks plural! I managed to get a second one finished with a little help from my own Kona stash:) They are so much fun to make and your quilt is going to look spectacular!

I know my month is December and I have all the fabrics and they are half cut. I hope to get them out to you all next week but there is NO hurry to get them done. I know December is a crazy month. But don't worry, they are easy and everything is pre-cut for you.n I'll do a proper post about them when I send them out.

November at last

2010-11-18T06:34:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies I know I posted a little preview on the flickr group but I realize we seem to communicate more on here. My quilt block for this month is kind of a wonky log cabin anything goes block. the unfinished size should be 12.5 in. and if you would like to make two and if you have enough fabric by all means do so.
here is the inspiration quilt out of kaffe fasset's book quilts in the sun.

each block is sashed in orange

this particular sample is more what I am looking for- i tried to be a little free

The blocks are really improv and bits and pieces and that's what I am looking for- I will say it is a struggle for me to be so free and not so rigid and that is why my sample blocks are a little rigid. This quilt is for my husband- he thinks I will never make him one and so I am having my bee friends help out!

anything goes wonky log cabins

nuetral thread

12.5 in unfinished

2 blocks if you have enough time and fabric or even if you start a second that would be fab too!

Most of the fabric is kona cotton and all is solid colors.

I'm putting them in the mail today- getting them back is no rush- I know I am late and the holidays are upon us.

thanks heather

Debbie's Block

2010-11-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

Finished this block last night. It will go out in today's mail.
I loved the fabric and had a lot of fun putting the block together. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough fabric to make two blocks. I hope you like it, Debbie!

October block for Debbie

2010-10-28T11:04:00.001-07:00

Quilt Blocks, mostly late!

2010-10-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, the best laid plans, right? Here are my June, July and September blocks. Yes, it's October and I apologize ladies. It does feel really good to have them all finished, though. I had fun with all of them, especially Bibi's Dutchman's Puzzle. In fact, that is going to be my next quilt, so thank you for the inspiration! Also, thanks for your patience.

Joseph's Block

2010-10-05T11:57:00.000-07:00

Joseph here is a little late. His tardiness, however, was completely out of his control. It's been a crazy, busy month for me, and it looks like my schedule is staying this way all the way through the end of the year.

I love how my main block turned out. This second block, though, is a little loud. I hope it blends in well with the rest of the quilt.

This is going to be an amazing quilt. I've been trying to plan out a way to copy this idea for a quilt for our house for this Christmas. I haven't yet figured out how to squeeze more than 24 hours out of a day, though, so I suppose I'll have to put it on my list for next year.

Shepherd block

2010-09-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

This is a terrible picture but that is what you get when you take photos as you are rushing to get out the door to work.
These blocks were great fun to make and I loved all the fabrics you chose. Making them totally reminded me of the blocks I made for myself out of this same nativity embroidery pattern. I can't wait to see how you put yours together. Be sure and post photos.
I will drop the blocks in the mail today or tomorrow. You should have them by next week.

Blocks for Liz

2010-09-10T06:58:00.000-07:00

Liz, I got your blocks done last night and they were so much fun! I really love the stitchery you included to be used. This quilt is going to be beautiful! I added a couple of my own fabrics and had enough to make 3 blocks total. I hope they work, and I can't wait to see your quilt done....by this Christmas, right??!!

September blocks

2010-08-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Fresh Comfort!

I am excited to finally be getting to my month! I would like the blocks to be a log cabin block with an embroidery block as the center. I have included the embroidery. I have included some pics to give you an idea of what I am talking about.

The width of each strip can be varied, but I would like them to be all right angles (no wonky) please. I would like the size of the blocks sent back to me to be 12.5 inches square. Please feel free to add any additional fabrics to these blocks as long as they stay within the basic color scheme of red and white (with a hint of green possible), not overly Christmasy.

If you have enough fabric and desire I also need setting blocks that are the log cabin block with anything as the center. I hope that I have sent enough to do 1-2 blocks. Please send any scraps back as I pretty much cleared out my red stash!

I am hoping to get my packages into the mail this week!

Thanks so much!!!

Liz

P.S. Thanks to Tacey for the inspiration!!

Block for Bibi!

2010-08-11T09:07:00.000-07:00

Whoooo! Im finally caught all up. It has been a CRAZY few months. Bibi, I have to say this was my favorite block to make. I really enjoyed it.. and not just cause you cut everything.

Bibi's Block from Bonnie

2010-08-10T11:33:00.001-07:00

I love these fabrics so much, Bibi! This is going to be a perfect little girl quilt. Last month was crazy busy with running a photo contest on my blog and finalizing two new patterns for my store, so I'm late finishing up this block. Actually, if I'd realized that Bibi had already precut everything, I probably would have gotten this done way sooner. It's all finished and ready to head home now!

Bonnie and Bibi's blocks

2010-08-04T13:46:00.001-07:00

After being away for a month in Utah on vacation, I finally am home and have Bonnie and Bibi's blocks done. Talk about fun!

Bibi, your fabrics were so sweet - I know your quilt is going to be beautiful!Bonnie, I had a ton of fun playing with your chickens! I ended up making a house block and a tree block. You might have to look hard to find the tree - it's rather busy! But if you look carefully you'll see that a red chicken flew to the top of the tree and is hiding in there ;)

Bonnie's Block

2010-08-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

I finally got this block done for Bonnie. I love these fabrics and colors. This is going to be a cheerful, sunny quilt. I hope you post pictures when you get it put together.
I am now officially caught up, phew!

Bibi's Block

2010-07-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Here is my block. Sorry, it isn't perfect. I followed the tutorial but somehow still lost some points. I won't feel bad if you can't use it or relegate it to the back.
However, I love the block and plan on practicing it until I get it right. Your fabric choices were lovely, as well. That is one lucky baby.
I will put the block in the mail tomorrow.

Rockin' my blocks

2010-07-14T14:31:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to show off all of the great blocks I received.

You all did a great job! These will make one fun, funky quilt. Thank you so much.

Dutchman's Puzzle for Bibi

2010-07-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

July block for Bibi

May Block update (the sequel)

2010-07-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

OK, so, update on the update, I received blocks from Katie, Bonnie, Tacey, Debbie, Joanna, Claire, Liz, Barb and Bibi. Thank you so much, ladies! That leaves Heather and Hilary. If you have sent your blocks could you let me know? I just want to see if any got lost in the mail. If you are just behind, that's fine. I don't think I will be able to get this top together until September, at the earliest. Thanks again!

I'm not dead.

2010-06-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Even though it feels like I have been. It's been an insane couple of months. We moved; my grandmother and a close friend passed away, and I had surgery...so yeah..like I said...it's been insane. I'm here, though, and am FINALLY caught up. YAY!! So here's a pic of all the blocks that have now gone postal. So sorry for the delay guys. Please forgive me. :(

So..July is my month and I'm really excited! Fabric is cut and will be on their way to you guys. :) I'm planning on using the finished blocks for a quilt for my 2 year old baby girl, Elyse. Her bedroom has a woodland theme to it and is decorated in red, pink, and aqua; one of my fave color combos. I'd love it if you guys can help me by making Dutchman's Puzzle blocks. Here's a tutorial: http://www.quilterscache.com/D/DutchmansPuzzleBlock.html
I think they end up being 12". If you have any problems, please let me know. Oh! Did anyone else change their addy? I think I remember getting an email awhile back with an address change....maybe not. Just want to make sure I have everyone's correct addy. Thanks so much!! Can't wait to see everyone's blocks! :)

Blocks for Carrie

2010-06-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

I apologize for these blocks being so late!

This picture is terrible, but it was already dark by the time I finished them up, and I wanted to get a quick picture before they were mailed.

I am absolutely in LOVE with the fabrics you sent, Carrie! They are so gorgeous, and I am now on the hunt for some shot cottons.

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer!

May block update

2010-06-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give a little update on the blocks I have received. I have blocks from Katie, Bonnie, Tacey, Debbie and Joanna. Thank you so much, ladies! You all did an awesome job, and I'll post pictures soon of possible layouts so you can see them together. It's amazing! I can't wait to see what the rest of you have come up with. Thank you!

Liz, I did see the picture of your blocks, but I have not received them ( I think). Could you let me know if you have mailed them? The package could be in my house somewhere (10 year old brings in the mail)
Claire, received yours. Lovely!

Catching Up

2010-06-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I'm a little behind on my blocks and a LOT behind on my blogging, so I'm trying to get caught up. I sent out Carrie's blocks on Wednesday. Carrie, I'm so sorry they were late. Hopefully you've already received them, but here they are . . .

And I actually did sent Tacey's out in time, but I never posted the photos, so here THEY are . . .

I had so much fun with all of these, and I love Bonnie's bright colors for June. I've been admiring that chicken fabric for a while, so I'm looking forward to working with it.

Happy Summer!

Katie

June blocks for Bonnie

2010-06-06T13:03:00.001-07:00

April Blocks opposites Attract

2010-06-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

I am really behind but I wanted to do a quick post for my april Blocks- sometimes I think the improv blocks are more daunting than making dozens of half square triangles. Here are my opposite attract blocks- they we fun and free.

Blocks for Carrie

2010-06-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

I finally finished up your blocks last night Carrie - so it was still May when I finished them lol! Will get them in the mail this week:)

I love these fabrics - they are just so beautiful. I ended up making you two 9.5 inch blocks, one 6.5, and two 3.5 inch blocks. I was just going to make a whole bunch of 3.5's, then when they didn't quite measure 3.5 I would add more to make them 6.5, then when they still didn't measure 6.5 I thought what the heck, let's keep going lol! It was a lot of fun. This is going to be a gorgeous quilt - the blocks so far look wonderful!

It's June! And, It's My Turn!

2010-05-31T17:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I can't wait to see what everyone sews with these fabrics. They're on the way to you now. I'm planning to use these in a whimsical quilt and maybe some accessories for my kitchen.

I would love 12" completed blocks, so 12 1/2" with seam allowance. If you're up to sewing two blocks, I'll gladly do two blocks for you. I'd like the chickens to be fussy-cut and featured somehow. Everything else is up to you and your imagination.

You can go modern and fun like this wonky house block with a giant chicken that I made . . .

. . . or you can go with a traditional block like this one with chickens peeking out from each side.

Feel free to cut the chickens as big or as small as you'd like, as long as you can tell they're chickens. I'm sure that I sent way more fabric than you'll need--I wanted you to have plenty of options. Please mail back any bigger leftover pieces.

Under the wire

2010-05-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

Whew! I got these done just in time. These were a lot of fun to make. I loved the colors and the simplicity of the design made them quick and easy.
Sorry Carrie, I won't be able to put them in the mail right away. I have to leave town for a family emergency and won't be able to get them out before I leave. But, they are done and I will get them to you as soon as I can.
I hope you like them.

May Squares for Carrie

2010-05-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Such pretty fabrics! This first block is a wonky bento box, and it's definitely my favorite. I made one 9 1/2" block:

One 6 1/2" block:

And, two 3 1/2" blocks:

(I apologize that the blue, purple and green stripe is so wrinkly. It wasn't so noticeable until I looked at the pictures, and no amount of ironing would make it look smooth. I'm sure it'll look great once it's quilted, though!)

May blocks for Carrie

2010-05-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

It was really fun to play with this combination of fabrics. I hope you like them! The blocks are 9.5" and 12.5" square.

May Blocks

2010-04-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's almost May already? Time flies when you're having fun!
So this month we are going to play with some shot cottons. I am sending you Moda's crossweaves and Kaffe Fasset's haze stripes. It's hard to see the loveliness in the picture.
I would like squares. Let me show you my inspirations. Have you seen this? How about this? I'm not sure I will manage enough blocks for these, but I do love this too!

So I was thinking of squares of different sizes, 3" , 6", 9", and 12". Make which ever size or sizes fit your vision. In any way that you want- square within square, log cabin, Denyse Schmidt's drunk love, bento box, whatever strikes your fancy! And as wonky or not as you like. (I love the blocks I've been seeing for Tacey) Go for it, improv away, as long as they are square, and have a solid border. (did that make sense? A frame around the edge, doesn't have to all be the same fabric/color, just make the square look, well, square.) And remember to leave me an extra half inch unfinished. I'll be sending a lot of fabric so that you have more options, so I would like any usable pieces back. (though I really wish I had enough to share with all of you!)

OK, I do have a tendency to babble, so please let me know if I am unclear. I will be mailing the packets on Fri. (hopefully)

Tracey's Blocks

2010-04-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun making your blocks Tracey. I loved the fabrics you sent, and the block design allowed for so much freedom and creativity!

In your instructions you said we could "be as creative and wonky as you want", so I ran with the wonkiness!

The first block is a wonky rectangular log cabin....And the second is done Waverunner style, a la Victoria at Bumble Beans.I want to see this quilt when it's all done. I bet it will be amazing!

April Blocks for Tacey

2010-04-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

Boy did I have fun with these fabrics. I had a difficult time trying to figure out what to do, there were so many options. I wanted to try the tessellated crosses for a while, and the small scale of a square seemed a good fit. The other, I wanted to try a less structured piecing, so I improv cut and pieced strip of various sizes. I really enjoyed the process, watching it grow and evolve with each added layer.Tacey, I will mail these with your May fabrics!

Speaking of which, I will make another post, tomorrow or Wed (depending on how late my son's baseball game goes) about your May blocks and pretty pictures of the fabric! (think squares and shot cottons!)

April Opposites Attract Blocks for Tacey

2010-04-23T15:05:00.000-07:00

I am really having a great time learning new techniques and trying out new ideas for blocks. This month was no exception! These blocks were so fun to put together.

I wanted to do pinwheels for my first block. Since I didn't have quite enough fabric to do traditional pinwheels, though, I went with randomly-pieced pinwheels.

For the second block, I just cut out simple squares and arranged them in a pattern to fit around the main fabric.

This is going to be a really fun quilt when it's all done. I can't wait to see it! My 12-year-old daughter fell in love with the fabrics and asked if I could make her a similar quilt, so I'm off to hunt down some of Tacey's fabric choices.

Opposites Attract for Tacey

2010-04-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to get this fabric in the mail. I had an idea of what I wanted to do as soon as I saw it. I hope you like them Tacey!

Barb's blocks done!

2010-03-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

Finally I got myself to the store and bought some freezer paper. I thought I had some but it was just easier to buy some more than to tear apart my quilt room looking for it!!

I really like this technique and have made a quilt using freezer paper piecing before which was fun and successful. It was nice to forget about convention and do something a little different, so thanks for stretching our minds Barb!

I separated the colors into warm and cool and did a block of each.
I will get to the Post Office asap - hopefully tomorrow - we are meant to be getting a new roof tomorrow but with all the rain here in the north east, I don't see it happening, so the Post Office will be on my agenda. If not tomorrow, definitely Thursday.

I look forward to doing the next blocks - they look like fun!!

Barb's Blocks and April Packets

2010-03-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

I have mixed feelings about this technique. I love the completed block but it did take quite a bit of time. I would consider it for a smaller quilt but I don't think I'd have the patience for it on a larger quilt. However, it is a great way to use my scraps, so I will probably try it again on a baby or lap sized quilt. Thanks for having us learn this. I really enjoyed it.

The packets for April will go out today. Do you want a sneak peak??

The theme for my blocks is one I found at the flickr site for another bee I am following. It is called "Opposites Attract" and I loved the way the blocks turned out so much, I contacted the queen for that month and asked if I could use her idea. She gave me permission so we are ready to roll.

Basically, the block is an improvisational block in which there is a busy, pieced area and a quiet, un-pieced area. You are free to do what ever strikes your fancy. The only thing I ask is that you use the Starling fabric (white fabric with birds) as the focus fabric for the quiet area. It might sound complicated but it really isn't. Check out the blocks from the other bee for ideas. You can go here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. I may have over done it with the fabric, but I wanted you to have plenty to work with. Just send back any that you don't use. If there is enough fabric and you have the time and the desire to make two blocks, I would be very thankful.

I hope you have fun with this. Be as creative and wonky as you want. I would like 10" blocks. I can't wait to see what you come up with!

more blocks for barb

2010-03-25T15:05:00.000-07:00

I think I am the only one so far who is not in love with this technique. I really like how they turn out and I think the finished quilt is going to be amazing, it is just a little too fussy for me. I can't wait to see what your quilt looks like!

Edit: I put your blocks in the mail today! (March 26)

Blocks for Barb

2010-03-24T03:22:00.000-07:00

Here are my blocks for Barb. I'm so glad you chose this pattern, Barb. I'd been wanting to try it for a while. I had read the instructions before and it seemed too complicated, but once I got going, it really wasn't that bad. Like everyone else so far, I want to make a few more for myself.

I put them in the mail on Monday, so you should have them soon.

Thanks again for pushing up your month!

Katie

Baby Announcement & Blocks for Barb

2010-03-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

Like Carrie, I was a little nervous about this block because I've never done paper-piecing before. I love how the blocks turned out, though.

This first one had a plan as far as the placement of the fabrics so it's a little more balanced than the second one.

I had to be more creative with the second block so that I wouldn't run out of fabric. It's definitely a bit more random.

Am I the only one who does "practice" blocks to keep for myself before putting together the actual blocks? This time, I was so glad that I did because I made a few mistakes that would have been disastrous if I hadn't had extra fabric on hand. Here are the two "Map of the States" blocks that I made for me. I also have blocks that I made with these fabrics to match the January and February blocks. I think I'll probably put them together when I have a total of twelve, so I'll end up with three quilts at the end of the Quilting Bee!

And, because I know you all want to know if our little one finally made his appearance, here's a picture of Warren Charles "Charlie" at one month old:

Charlie made his arrival early on the morning of February 12th during the biggest snowstorm in Dallas, Texas history--12 1/2 inches of snow! He weighed 7 lbs., 11 ou. and was 21 1/2 inches long. He's a very easy baby so far, and the whole family is enjoying him!

March blocks for Barb

2010-03-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

So when I first started these blocks, I was excited, but nervous. It seemed very complicated and I couldn't figure out how to sort the fabrics in groups. Value? Print and solid? Nothing seemed to work right. I just went for it, picking the fabric and piecing each row one at a time for contrast.

That seemed to work well.

Though I'm not entirely happy with the batik strip in the second one. I really didn't notice until I took the picture, so I hope you don't hate it, Barb!
Anyway, I fell in love with making these blocks! I didn't want to stop, so I started a third with what fabric I had left. I'm sending along the rest of the freezer paper pattern. I hope you like them Barb!

I am so making one of these quilts myself sometime soon!

March Madness

2010-03-10T19:05:00.000-08:00

Ok. First things first, I finally got Hilary's Blocks out to her. I had an issue with my machine's tension mid-month and had to take it into the shop, and it made me late. Better late than never, though! Here they are:

Traditional log cabin. Totally fun. I too, added a little bit from my stash to both. I also wanted to do a wonky log cabin super bad, thus...

Wonks away!

Hope you like them, Hilary.

Now, onto the March block. I have a confession to make. I really love Batik fabric. I'm fascinated with the colors, and how they swirl together. I also wanted to experiment with linen, linen blends, and cotton. And I didn't prewash. I wanted it to be, frankly, a surprise when I washed the whole quilt, what with the different shrinkage rates and junk. This might bite me in the butt, and all the colors might run together and the fabrics might pull strangely. Funky charm, right? Anyway, the blocks I want to make are called "Map of the States". Here is the link to the tutorial: http://www.ohfransson.com/oh_fransson/2009/07/map-of-the-states-blocks.html

This woman is amazing. Her quilts are beautiful. She has many, many tutorials that have helped me, in my quest to quilt. Also, her free motion stitching is impeccable.

I would like the blocks to 9.5" square. Also, if it's not a problem, would you send back any decent scraps with the finished blocks? That would be great.

I really hope you guys have fun with this, and I can't wait to see the finished blocks!

Packages, ready! (and sent!!)

Introduction

2010-03-10T05:53:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies!

Thanks so much for letting me join in the bee. Like Katie said, we met in person last week, and I was looking at her blogs and saw this one, saw that you might be in need of a 'filler' person so I jumped at the chance. I'm excited!

I thought I should at least introduce myself since I missed out on that the first time around!

I have lived in New Hampshire for almost 4 years now, and was in Salt Lake City for 7 years before that. I am originally from New Zealand and as Katie can attest, I talk kinda funny!! I met my husband - wait for it - online! So embarrassing:) But 11 years and 3 kids later, I think it worked?!

I can't remember a time when I wasn't quilting - I remember tying quilts with my mother when I was a child in the 70's and 80's. I got serious about quilting 17 years ago in 1993 when my manager at work bought in a copy of the quilt book "Watercolor quilts". I was mesmerized - I never new quilts could look like that!

Now my passion is applique, needleturn to be specific. But I can do a bit of everything:) I was lucky to marry my husband, as his mother is a quilt teacher and I really learned to get the basics right from her. I love my MIL!!

I am a stay at home Mum, and with just 1 left at home I have plenty of time to quilt!

I am so impressed with the blocks you all have made so far, and I am really excited to get working!

Hillary, if you are missing out on getting your blocks done this month because of the change, I would love to do them for you! Like I said, I have lots of time to quilt ;)

I'm off to look at all your blogs!!

Activate the March Plan!

2010-03-10T05:01:00.000-08:00

I did not hear back from Jennifer, so let's go ahead and implement the March plan I talked about in the last post. (Sheesh. Do I sound like an IT geek or what?!) Thanks again for all your feedback. Thank you Barb, Tacey, and Carrie for being willing to shuffle around and thank you Joanna for joining us. Barb, thanks for racing around to get things together early. I can't wait to see what you came up with.

I'm really sorry everyone for the delay, and Hilary, I'm really sorry you probably won't get your blocks from Jennifer. I would be happy to make them if you have more fabric.

Thanks again everyone for helping us get back on track.

p.s. I updated the links at the right with the new month assignments. If you want me to link up to your blog, just let me know.

Plan for March

2010-03-09T04:59:00.001-08:00

Hi Again Everyone,
Thanks so much for your great ideas and offers to help out. How does this sound to everyone:

1. We give Jennifer until the end of the day today (3/9/10) to respond.
2. If we don't hear back then Barb would take March.
3. Tacey would take April.
4. Carrie would take May.
5. A very nice woman named Joanna that I just met at the first meeting of the New England Modern Quilt Guild volunteered to join us and take the empty spot. She's working on the Joseph's Coat Quilt from Don't Look Now, so she really knows what she's doing. She would have December.

Barb, Tacey, Carrie, and Joanna, are you okay with this? Everyone, let me know your thoughts. I really appreciate your feedback and help in figuring this out!

Thanks again,
Katie

In Response To . . . "March Package???"

2010-03-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
I wanted to answer Tacey's post with a new post instead of in the comments - just in case people aren't reading all the comments. Tacey - thanks for bringing it up.

I've tried contacting Jennifer a couple of times and haven't heard back. I did check in with her about my January block a while ago, and she did get back to me on that, so I may still hear from her. I do feel like we should start thinking about what to do if she doesn't come through. Do any of you have experience with this? Any ideas?

On thought is to try to recruit someone else. It's still pretty early in the bee. Hilary and I would be out our blocks and fabric, but I can certainly live with that. The other thought is to see if anyone else is prepared to switch months to give either Jennifer or the new recruit more time. Or we could just skip March - then we only get 10 (or 20) blocks instead of 11 (or 22).

I don't feel like any of those things are great solutions. I'd love to hear some suggestions.

Thanks!
Katie

March package??

2010-03-07T23:43:00.001-08:00

I haven't yet received the fabric for March. I am worried that it got sent to the wrong address. Has everyone else received their fabric?

Feb blocks for Hilary

2010-02-27T05:22:00.000-08:00

I'm in just under the wire! I hope you like these, Hilary.

More Blocks for Hilary

2010-02-26T03:29:00.000-08:00

Here are my two blocks. I also love the fabrics you chose. I'd love to know what they are. I especially like the ones Claire used, but they're all great. The blocks will be in the mail tomorrow.

Log Cabins for Hilary

2010-02-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

I am getting these in just under the wire. February has been crazy for me since I was out of town for several days to visit my Dad before he goes in for a stem cell transplant.

It was great therapy to have these to work on now that I am back. I hope you like them Hilary. I had fun making them. I loved your fabric choices. I hope you post the the quilt once you get it completed.

These will go in the mail tomorrow.

Log Cabins for Hilary

2010-02-13T20:16:00.000-08:00

Just finished these up this evening. I love the fabrics you sent, Hilary! They're so fresh and spring-like! 

Like a few of you, I also added a fabric from my stash (the center flower print) - hope that's okay. 

They match my kitchen walls :)

I hope everyone is having a good weekend!

February blocks for Hilary

2010-02-05T15:52:00.000-08:00

I added a few fabrics from my own stash, I hope that is ok! The top block is 12 3/4 inches square and the bottom block is 12 inches square.

February Log Cabins for Hilary

2010-02-03T08:24:00.000-08:00

Looks like I'm first, again! Still waiting on our new little guy to make his arrival, so I thought it was best to get these done right away.

I used solids from my stash to make the center squares in both blocks because I was a little worried that I wasn't going to have enough fabric to do two squares. I hope you don't mind, Hilary!

Both blocks are 12" finished (12 1/2" with seam allowance). In case anyone wants to steal my math, for the first block, I used a 4 1/2" center square and 2 1/2" strips around. For the second block, I used a 3 1/2" center square and 2" strips around.

I'll have these back out in the mail today!

Tree Blocks for Katie

2010-02-02T13:49:00.001-08:00

I'm in the middle of a move, so I was running a lil' behind...eeekk. But they're done and I'm pretty happy with them. Hope you like them, Katie. :)

I've already started on Hilary's Feb. blocks, yay!! You should be getting them soon. :)

Peace and love,
Bibi

February Log Cabins! Yay!

2010-02-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies!!

Hope you are all receiving the fabrics!! Although, I did forget we had a change and sent the fabric to the original person but she will forward it on soon. So no worries.

Sorry about the lateness of this post.
I have been super busy.I have a wedding in Orlando and a lot of other photo sessions while im here. Havent had a lot of time for thinking or sleeping.

For my blocks Id like some log cabins. Im still new at this quilting game and log cabins are fun and easy and make me happy.

I cant find the tut. I originally used but there is this incase any of you dont know how to make them. The only change to the squares from the tutorial is the very center square Id like to be all the same so really a small, middle block in one color. Id like the blocks to be around 12.In the end Im going to be fourthing all the blocks. So, I suppose the middle block could be a little different.Its all up to you all on how you do it.

Ill be back in town in 3 days and have more internet access and ill be able to answer any questions you might have. Also,just as Katie had If you make me two blocks Ill make you two :)

Im WAY looking forward to seeing them! Yay!

http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/2008/08/baby-quilt-week-day-3.html

Katie's January Block

2010-02-01T21:00:00.001-08:00

I made the trees and mailed the block off before the big ice/snow storm. Hope it was what you were aiming for, Katie. The paper piecing gave a challenge but I remembered some tricks that I had used in a class I took years ago. The tree template is from quiltcache.com (the 4inch pine).

Can't wait for the next round.

Debbie

My Own Trees

2010-02-01T05:01:00.001-08:00

I felt like I should make my OWN blocks along with everyone else, so I finished them up this weekend and took pictures this morning. I was inspired by Tacey and Heather to do some raw edge applique. I got a little tree crazy this weekend and decided that I want to also try a Tree of Life block, a Tree of Temptation block, and a wonky Log Cabin with a little pine tree in the middle block. So far, I've only actually made these two:

I don't really have a plan for the overall quilt, so I suppose once I start arranging all the blocks, I'll decide if I actually need to make any more.

I've said it a couple of times in the comments, but I'm so impressed and excited about the awesome blocks that I'm going to have in my quilt. Everyone's blocks have been so creative and beautiful and unique. The whole bee thing is turning out even better than I could have imagined. Thanks so much for pouring so much energy and creativity into it.

I received some beautiful fabric along with my blocks from Hilary. I'm assuming that's for our February block. (Right, Hilary?) I can't wait to see what she comes up with.

One of my other bees is keeping track of which blocks have been received, etc. I suppose I should do the same.

I've already received blocks from Bonnie, Tacey, Debbie, and Hilary. Update: Just got the mail, so I now also have blocks from Carrie and Liz. Today, I received Barb's blocks. I've never gotten this much great mail all at once. Almost every day I come home to a package. It's so cool. I now also have blocks from Claire, Heather, and Bibi, so that's everyone except one. I just contacted her to make sure she's still in. I'm making a few more blocks myself, but I hope to post pictures of my block layout soon. Thanks again everyone. This has been awesome.

Carrie, Barb, Claire, Heather, and Liz, and now Bibi have all blogged about their blocks, so I know they're done.

I'm not in a huge hurry. I always have plenty of other projects to work on. I'm such a fickle crafter. So if you haven't made or sent your blocks, don't worry.

I'll update this post as I receive more blocks.

Thanks again, everyone!

Katie's January blocks

2010-01-31T17:58:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun making these blocks! I have to admit, the thought of trying to come up with original blocks, executing them and having them stand up to the talent I've seen you other ladies have was a bit intimidating. But I dove in anyway, tried paper piecing, and I am very happy with the results. I hope you are too, Katie. They went in the mail yesterday.

I'm sorry about the bad pictures- bad camera, so I took them outside for sunshine, and now I have bad shadows! I'll try for better pictures next month!

2010-01-31T16:42:00.001-08:00

January Blocks and a Brief Introduction

2010-01-29T09:23:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

I'm coming in under the wire, but have managed to get my blocks done and post, all within the month of January. First things first, however, a little information about me. My name is Barb, and I live in Portland, Oregon, where liberals run free and it rains a lot. Being fairly liberal myself, I have been authorized to make that joke ;) I'm a mother of three smart and beautiful Amazon warriors, 5, 3 and (almost) 2 months. They keep me a little busy. My sweet husband is an amazing artist/carpenter/master craftsman, who is embroiled in the mayhem of starting his own business. "In this economy?!" you ask. "We laugh in the face of recession." we say nervously, with fingers and toes crossed. I'm also a professional baker at a small french cafe in the north side of PDX. Currently, though, I'm on maternity leave, and am not sure if I will be going back, at least for some time. I love to sew, knit, garden, cook, read comics, etc. I also really like expanding my skill set and learning new things. That's one of the reasons why I'm so excited about this virtual Bee. Make new wrinkles on my brain, ladies. Drop some knowledge bombs on me.

That said, I have to be honest about how intimidated I was when I first read about paper piecing. Definitely took me out of my comfort zone, particularly when it came to resizing the pattern and making it bigger. You see, Math and I have had an uneasy relationship for years. In truth, I find Math to be a jerk.

So, after much procrastinating and mental cursing, I got to it. And to my surprise, I found it to be much easier than I expected. An added bonus was how fun I found it to be. So thanks Katie, for getting me out of my said zone.

This is my first block. Since I was so unsure about paper piecing, and the expectations of the Bee, in general, I stayed pretty conservative. After seeing all the creative blocks I think I will be a little more free next time. Or at least try to be.

The second block is a much more symmetrical. I just hope it's not too symmetrical.

I had to add a border to bring it up to size (I'm glaring at you, Math), so I used some of my Kona Cotton stash.

So, here they are! Time to drink a celebration cup of coffee. Until next month, adieu.

trees for Katie

2010-01-27T19:58:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

We're supposed to get ice here in Oklahoma, starting tomorrow, so I'm going to do my best to get these to the post office tomorrow morning. I apologize for the terrible lighting in these pictures.

I'm still not sure I feel about this block. There was a lot of ripping and resewing... and ripping and resewing.

I love trees, and I'm sure this quilt is going to be so awesome when it's all put together! I have been so impressed with the blocks everyone else has been making. You all are so creative.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!

I had so much fun

2010-01-26T10:19:00.001-08:00

i love trees, so this whole block idea was a lot of fun for me. I hope you like them! I could have probaby even made more- see my little bitty bird. I can't wait for the next month and more fabulous fun. I planning on getting my blocks in the mail tomorrow!

Second block ready to go.

2010-01-18T20:18:00.001-08:00

I finished block #2 this afternoon. For a little something different, I decided to raw edge applique the tree trunk and the swing, then do a little creative machine stitching to finish it all out. I will drop both blocks in the mail tomorrow. I hope you like them, Katie :)

One block down, one to go

2010-01-17T21:43:00.001-08:00

Here is my first block, blogged about here. I don't know if it was the pattern I picked or what, but I found paper piecing to be a challenge, to say the least. But I am pleased with the way this block turned out.

I am working on a second one but haven't quite finished yet. I hope to have it done tomorrow and then have them both in the mail by Tuesday.

Trees!

2010-01-11T08:03:00.000-08:00

The first week of the year has passed and I'm now settling into a routine. Looks like trees are on the sewing table this week..oh I ordered a new table from Sears that will be perfect for my portable Bernina Sport. The ones already posted have given me some great ideas. What a choice of fabrics to use....ok, gonna get started! Thanks Katie for getting us going.

january trees for katie

2010-01-08T07:41:00.000-08:00

I decided not to paper piece my trees, but I think they still turned out ok. I love the top block and it turned out just as I had envisioned in my head. The second block involved a lot of picking and re-sewing and I still don't love it. Katie, I won't feel bad if it doesn't quite make the cut or is relegated to the back :)

Katie's Blocks from Bonnie & a Quick Introduction

2010-01-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

I received Katie's fabric in the mail yesterday and had to get started right away! I can't promise that I'll always be this prompt, but we're expecting a new baby in a few weeks so I wanted to make sure to get these done right away. I didn't have a chance to post an introduction last month, so I thought I'd share a little about me now. My name is Bonnie. My wonderful husband and I have five children with number six arriving later this month. I blog at Fishsticks & Fries. I love to sew! I actually sew a lot more clothing than anything else, but recently I've been feeling a tug to quilt the way my mom and granny did. I'm enjoying learning all the ins and outs . . . and maybe even re-learning the "right" way to do things, since I tend to be a jump-in-and-do-it sewist rather than a read-the-instructions-first sewist. I promise I'll do my best to do things the way they should be done for the bee!

I loved the idea of doing quilt blocks with trees or leaves for Katie, but it took me a bit to decide exactly what I wanted to do. For the first block, I had a plan in mind but it sort of took shape as I sewed. I used several Flying Geese blocks to make the trees then pieced together the remaining pieces to simulate sky, tree trunks and grass. I love how this one turned out!

The second block that I did is a little simpler. I used the Maple Leaf pattern from Quilter's Cache. Quick and easy, but hopefully a nice addition to Katie's quilt!

I can't wait to see all the other blocks!

Fabric is in the Mail!

2009-12-31T18:15:00.000-08:00

Woo hoo! It was so much fun putting together these little packets and thinking about all of you. I think I way overdid it on the fabric, so don't feel like you have to use all of it - or all of the different prints. (Please send back any leftovers when you send the finished blocks.) I can't wait to see what you all come up with.

Happy New Year!

January Blocks

2009-12-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. My family enjoyed two fun-filled, gift-filled, food-filled days of celebrating. I'm exhausted and glad to have some quiet time now. I'm especially excited to get started on our bee. I've decided that for my blocks I would like to do a tree theme.

I did my first paper-pieced block about a month ago when I fell in love with this circle of geese pattern. (The tutorial there is really great, too.) When I realized how easy it is, I went a little crazy. I found this great site with lots of paper piecing templates. I originally wanted to make a wonky little Christmas tree, since I was full into Christmas-spirit mode. I didn't use especially Christmas-y colors, but I loved how it came out, so the tree theme idea was born.

Anything somewhat related to a tree, like leaves for example, is also welcome. Here's a list of free patterns I've come across, but feel free to use whatever you like. The more creative the better. It also doesn't have to be paper pieced if you find a tree-like block that doesn't require it.

Wonky Christmas Tree (that can really just be any kind of pine tree)
Tree at Sunset (but you could really use any kind of background)
Sasha's Tree
Tall, Skinny Pine Tree (There are quite a few other trees on this site as well)
Aspen Leaf
Maple Leaf
Simple Pine Tree (I don't believe this one requires paper piecing.)

These are the ones I've tried so far:

This is the wonky tree.

The is the Tree at "Sunset".

And this is Sasha's Tree.

I just bought what I think is the rest of the fabric. It's in the washing machine now. I do still have to buy more background fabric though. Other than that, all I have to do is cut it up and mail it out to all of you.

I would like the blocks to be 12 1/2" square. (That seems to be the most common size I've run across.) I'm planning to do sashing between the blocks, so I'd prefer not to have borders, but if that's the only way you can make the 12 1/2" square, I can live with it. Also, if you'd like to do two blocks, that would be great. If you do, I'll make two blocks for you during your month, but please don't feel obligated.

Let me know if you have any questions. I'll let you know as soon as the fabric is in the mail.

Katie

FAQ

2009-12-16T17:45:00.000-08:00

I've had quite a few questions from bee members on some of the details on how we're going to do this bee. I've had the same questions myself as well as quite a few more, so I'm going to document them here along with my thoughts on what the answers should be. I've never done this before so I'm really open to suggestions. (I've also been nosing around in other bees' blogs to get some ideas on how it's usually done.) When we have more questions, I'll add them here.

Q: How much fabric do I send?
A: Most of what I've read says you should send about one fat quarter's worth of fabric, so if, for example, you have 4 different fabrics you'd have 4 pieces that are - what - about 9" x 11". I think this is obvious, but you would NOT have 4 fat quarters to make up 1 yard. You don't have to have perfect 9" x 11" pieces either. I think any decent sized scraps would be fine.

Q: A fat quarter seems like a lot for one block. Can I get the leftovers back?
A: I think that's reasonable. I don't think I'm going to ask for mine back. I have enough scraps already, but I think that can be totally up to the Queen for the month. Just let people know ahead of time, so they can set the leftovers aside and send them back with your block.

Q: When do I have to post about my block?
A: Let's shoot for the first of the month. If you know before then, you can certainly post earlier.

Q: When do I have to send out my fabric?
A: Also try to have the fabric arriving in members homes by the first of the month. I want to make sure everyone has a full month to work on their blocks.

Q: When do I have to send the blocks back?
A: Let's shoot for the end of the month on that.

Q: Can I make two blocks? Can I ask people to make two blocks?
A: I think so. After all, 12 blocks doesn't make a very big quilt. When you blog about your blocks, indicate whether or not you'd like people to make two blocks. Anyone who's willing to make two blocks, let the Queen for the month know, so she can send you more fabric.

Q: How big should I make the blocks?
A: That's up to the Queen for the month. 12 1/2" square seems like a common size in the tutorials I've seen, but when you're the Queen, just make sure to include the size you want. I think everyone will be reasonable, but let's limit it to less than 20" square. I don't think we want to end up making mini quilts instead of blocks.

I think that's it for now, but like I said, I will add more questions as they come up.

I'm sure you're all really busy this time of year and looking forward to the holidays, but it's almost January. Woo hoo, that means we can start soon! I'm the block picker/fabric sender for January, and I finally figured out what I want to do for blocks, but I'll save that for another post.

Katie

p.s. Thanks everyone for posting about yourself. It's been so much fun to read.

Getting to know you- Carrie

2009-12-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

Hello! I'm Carrie and I'm from Nazareth, PA. I've been in PA most of my life, but I did have 8 years in Rochester, NY. I'm 40-something have a husband of 18 years and one (yes, only one) son, who is the light of my life! I also work full time in retail.

I have been crafting pretty much all of my life! I started at about a year or two old (due to my hippie parents) and haven't stopped. My favorites are quilting (of course) weaving, felting, soap-making and some dabbling in pottery. I have also done some beadwork and jewelry making.

I have spent a lot of my crafting energy on recreating Medieval arts and crafts in the past, because I was an active member of a historical reenactment group. My weaving is mainly tablet weaving, which is an ancient Viking (among others) art. I have also done spinning with a drop spindle (I'm not very good) and finger loop braiding.

I'm taking a break from all that right now due to the high level of involvement of my 10 year old in sports. It is important to me to make all his games and such, so all that travel(for the historical group) is out of the question. This has left me time to persue something I have wanted to do for 10 years (at least) but have not had the time for- quilting! There is very little evidence of patchwork quilting in the Medieval period (though whole cloth quilting was prevalent) so I just didn't have the extra time to dedicate to it. Well, I do now, and I am loving it! I have made my first three quilts, and I have eight(!) more in progress. I am so obsessed! I have been building my stash for about ten years in the hopes of making time to learn quilting, but I haven't stopped shopping for more fabric. I love both traditional and modern quilting styles, but my artistic process lends itself better to modern techniques. I am working on both aspects though, because I believe a good grounging in the traditional will help me with my precision.

Did I babble on enough? This is my first Bee, and I am so exited to meet all of you and be a part of this. I can't wait to start.

getting to know you - heather

2009-12-09T20:05:00.000-08:00

Hey Girls, I'm heather (yes spelled with a little h). I'm 35. I've been spelling my name like that since I think middle school. In some respects this my second quilting bee- but I haven't even started the first one i joined yet- so I am pretty new to all of this.

I live in the state of Connecticut. Born and raised here- they only other state i have lived in is Utah. I went there for school which is where I met my hubby. We have been in wedded bliss for about 12 years and in that time 5 boys have joined our life. Yes I said 5 and yes I said boys, and 2 cats. They range in age from 2 months to 9 years old and yes my house is usually a flurry of motion. But luckily I am a pretty layed back person so I just take one minute as they come and I do a lot of sewing, quilting and crafting to keep the insanity to a minimum. I do have to admit sewing for boys pretty much sucks and my talents are mostly wasted on them so most of this time is spent on things for myself or my friends.

I have always been a crafter since I was very young- my mother use to sew costumes and holiday dresses for me and my sister. She wasn't the one that taught me how to sew though- I took a home ec class in middle school which included sewing and from there I pretty much was a sewing fanatic. Pretty much most of my clothing I made myself all through high school and into college. Quilting always interested me and I had made many quilt tops in my time but never really knew how to finish them (because I just don't have time to hand quilt) but I finally entered the world of machine quilting and now there is no stopping me. I have a fabric addiction and my family room/ craft room is pretty much exploded with fabric- not to mention the crates in the basement.

I have just taken up modern quilting and I'm fascinated by the world of quilt blogs and the wealth of talented quilters who are so willing to share there passion with us.

I also dabble a little in photography because I have always loved taking pictures of people and I have a blog for that too! I also love to bake, cook, crochet, craft, scrapbook, garden- I pretty much have no time in my life to do all the things I would like to do- I go through cycles. I like to blog but I'm not very consistent and I am relatively new to the blogging world so most of time I am incredibly blog challenged. The one thing I detest is house cleaning and with 5 young boys in my house there always seems to be a lot of that- ugh!

I'm excited to see all the fabric and quilt squares everyone will be sending- even though I have so much holiday sewing to do I can't wait to get my first package. Happy quilting!

Getting to know you-Tacey

2009-12-06T06:21:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

This is my first quilting bee and I am very excited to be a part of it.

Like all of you, I have many crafting interests but sewing and quilting are my first love. They calm me and feed my creative energy at the same time. I love all forms of quilting but lately, inspired by The Gees Bend Quilts and such artists as Denyse Schmidt and Jackie from Tallgrass Prairie Studio, I have found myself drawn more to modern, improvisational quilting. In fact, I am finishing up my first improvisational piece now. I have an incurable fabric addiction and one day would like to run my own quilt shop.

I am a mother of two grown sons and the wife of an incredibly supportive husband. We have been married for 29 wonderful years. He encourages me to explore all of my interests fully and even bought me my beloved Bernina for Christmas last year.

I grew up here in the sunny state of California but moved away to go to school in Utah. While I was in school, my family moved to Colorado where I met my husband. We married and moved back to Utah to finish school. We lived there for 13 years until we moved to Arlington, Texas. We raised our family there and loved it. Texas is a great state. Then, when my youngest was about to graduate High School and move away to go to college, my husband, Matt, was offered a job in Maui. It was a big move, but we took the leap. I mean, how many opportunities does a person get to go live in paradise??

We moved into a small cottage by Charlie Young beach and lived there for about 3 years. We loved it! It was like an extended second honeymoon. We had so many wonderful adventures! Everything from kayaking with whales to exploring the Road to Hana and Mount Haleakala. However, we did regret that we lived so far from our children. So, when my oldest son, who is going to school in Utah, announced that he was getting married, I knew that it was time to move back to the mainland. Coincidentally, a colleague of Matt's called him up and offered him a job out of the blue. That is how we came to live here in Camarillo, California and it is here we plan to sink our roots.

I am looking forward to quilting with and learning from all of you wonderful ladies.

Hi, I'm Jennifer!

2009-12-05T18:01:00.000-08:00

Hi! I'm Jennifer of JellyBean Stitches.

I'm a 26 (almost 27) year old mother to a 1 year old daughter, and a wife of 3 (almost 4) years. I'm from NJ, my husband is from the UK originally, but he moved to the US to be with me.

By day I'm a high school Spanish teacher, but I'm also certified to teach English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education. I just kept going to school. At night, I do some fiction writing, and I do lots of sewing and quilting. I've been sewing for a long time since my grandmother taught me when I was about 6 or 7, and moved onto quilting a while ago. This year my husband got me a brand new Singer machine, so I'll be having tons of fun with it in the new year.

I think I have craft ADD, I keep trying new things. I cannot figure out knitting or crocheting to save my life. I thought it was because I'm left handed, but I tried one of the "for lefties" books, and still can't get it.

I'm looking forward to this bee! Still thinking on the fabrics I'll be sending out and the block pattern.. I'm just not sure yet!

Another Sooner!

2009-12-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

I'm Debbie from Norman Oklahoma. I have been sewing since I was ten. My Texas grandmother taught me how to embroider and my California grandmother taught me to sew by machine. I loved home economics during junior high, but didn't have time for class during high school, so I taught myself and made most of my clothes. During college I continued the sewing classes and got my degree with a home economics minor. My roommate taught me to crochet and we kept a sewing machine set up on the desk where I think they expected me to study....wrong. Then I started teaching school. I always envied the teacher across the hall because while I was slaving away teaching 7th graders all about grammar and spelling, she was sewing and doing crafts all day.

I don't know a day without sewing; it calms me and lets me relax before I go to sleep.

I have been married 30 years. I was sitting at a small kitchen table sewing when he asked me to marry him. My husband even bought me a sewing machine for our first anniversary. He knows that sewing machines and sewing time are very important to my sanity. I have a married daughter living in London since August after spending five years in NYC, working in journalism, and a grown son, an unemployed computer programmer, living across the highway from us over by the University of Oklahoma. When he moved out, I made his room into my own private sewing room, which I love. It is filled with fabric and all of my favorite things.
My parents passed away just 18 months apart recently and now the one parent we have lives with us. My husband's mother has Alzheimers and we have decided to care of her here. I keep another blog about that experience to keep me sane, plus I'm learning patience.
I love quilting. I think I love piecing the most, but I have a quilting frame and machine that I am learning to use...so I can quilt all these quilt tops I have finished.
I was a member of a quilting bee last year. I did Kaffe Fassett fabrics and the blocks that came back were wonderful. I am in the process of sashing it together. The bee was great and I learned so much. You get challenged and have to go outside of your comfort zone sometimes. Plus the new friends you make are an extra bonus. (and I bet I have seen Clare if she works at the quilt shop on 24th!)

Happy Holidays! This will make the new year something to look forward to.
This will be fun.

Getting to know you - Claire

2009-12-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm Claire. I live in Norman, Oklahoma with my husband of 5 years. We both attend the University of Oklahoma and graduate in May (hurray!). Neither of us have started the job search yet, but I'm excited to see where we end up. No kids yet, but I'm getting baby fever, so... maybe within the next year or so.

I am pretty new to sewing. Last year I got a job at my local quilt shop. A friend of mine worked there, but she had just graduated and was moving, so her boss was looking to pass off the job to another college student. It sort of fell into my lap, and I am so glad it did! I didn't own a sewing machine when I started there, but that didn't last long. I now have a growing stash, which I have to keep super organized because we live in an oh so tiny apartment. I also like to knit, read, and cook. I'm really looking forward to not being a homework-laden student, and focusing a bit more time on my hobbies. :)

I have never done a virtual bee before, and I am so excited for this to start. Hope you're all having a great holiday season, I look forward to getting to know everyone!

-Claire

Getting to know you - Liz

2009-12-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be a part of this bee. This is the second bee I have joined and I am looking forward to making a lot of fun new blocks and learning new things. I am an almost 33 year old mom of 4 - 2 girls and 2 boys. I have been married for 12 1/2 years to a wonderful husband named Richard. We currently live in sunny Arizona while my husband goes to school. He is finished in April so we will see where we end up after that.

I honestly can not remember a time in my life when I was not sewing, stitching or crafting in some way or another. I had a babysitter teach me to cross stitch when I was 6. I remember my mom teaching me to embroider and to sew. I also learned to crochet from my grandmother. Of course, I also took home ec in jr high and high school. Until recently all of my jobs were in that field as well:a craft store, a fabric store, a scrapbook store. I guess you could say that crafting is in my blood :)

I have recently started quilting again after many years where scrapbooking was my primary craft. I am really enjoying the process and have been finishing some WIP's (some older than my marriage!) I have also enjoyed giving my quilt creations as gifts and the appreciation that my family and friends have for my homemade gifts.

I look forward to January and our first project together!

Getting to know you: Hilary!

2009-12-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

I suppose I'll go next on the introductions.

I'm Hilary and I currently live in a tiny town East of Raleigh. I say currently because I'm excited for our next duty station. My husband flies F-15E's for the Air Force so we are stuck here for another year or so. I'm originally from sunny Pensacola, Florida and oh! how I miss it there. NC isn't too bad, its close to a lot of interesting things and I do like to travel. My husband and I are still newlyweds we got married in August of 08 in Las Vegas! We haven't popped any babies out yet although before he deploys again I think we'll try. hmm Is that too much info? I'm not sure. Anyway, I'm starting up a photography business and so far its going well. That makes me happy.

My mom sewed for me when I was young but she made more clothes and not quilts and other fun stuff like that. When she was young her family was poor so she had to make her own clothes to get new ones. She never taught me though. By the time I got older she wasn't sewing and just concentrated on raising me. I'm not really sure why I wanted to start sewing. I do know that I discovered Amy Butler's prints through a friend and maybe that had a bit to do with it. When I got married I told my husband I wanted a sewing machine and he bought me one around this time last year. His mom sews so I guess it was just second nature to go out and buy a brand new sewing machine. My first project didn't go so well and I became discouraged. I kept trying and I found that sewing straight lines is a lot easier than other things. :)

My new years resolution last year was to not drink any soda pop. For the most part I made it, minus a few root beer floats and some Ale8 from Kentucky. Oddly enough my husband said if I continue to not drink sodas he will make it HIS new years resolution. Anyway, to get to my point this year I'm going to try and work on some sort of a craft for at least an hour a day. I'm looking forward to it, so I'm glad this bee will help out with it. We'll see how its goes.

Other than sewing, I lindy hop and I like to eat. If I were a vehicle I think Id be an 87 Toyota Sienna. I don't know why but as a 16 year old that was my dream car.

Is it ok to post photos? I'm going to assume so, well, here is a photo of my husband and I. We usually don't look this nice. :)

Getting To Know Eachother - Katie

2009-12-04T19:13:00.001-08:00

Before I delve into the nitty-gritty details of the Bee "rules", I thought it would be nice if we blogged about ourselves a bit to get to know each other which, to me, is at least half the point of doing the Bee. I can start . . .

I'm Katie. I live in Maine, and I love it here although it often seems like we're too busy to enjoy our beautiful state. We also start to complain about it quite a bit in February and March. I live in an old house with my husband and four kids. Both my husband and I work full time, and the kids are pretty involved with their activities, so when I find time to sew I'm usually neglecting something else. I've learned to live with that, but I still get frustrated at not having enough time to do all the things I want to do. I'm sure the rest of you are in exactly the same boat!

My mom tried to teach me to sew when I was a teenager. The only results of that were wasted fabric, mounds of tissue paper pattern pieces that I was never going to get folded again, tears, and swearing (on my part, not my mom's). After that, I decided that I REALLY wanted an Icelandic Wool Sweater. (It was in the 80's in Maine - we were so not cool.) The $80-something price tag made me want to figure out how to knit it myself. Little did I know, you could easily spend that on yarn. Armed with a book, some knitting needles, and some really scratchy rose pink yarn, I somehow figured out how to knit. Knitting will probably always be my first love, but I really got hooked on sewing again about a year ago.

But I don't really draw the line at knitting and sewing. I've been taking pottery as often as I can afford it at a local pottery studio, and I love that as well. Those are probably my top three things, but I've also done spinning, stained glass, crochet, scrapbooking, basket making, and of course home remodeling. I'm trying to learn more about photography. Sometimes I enjoy cooking, but I rarely make anything that all four kids like. Usually none of them like it. I also bake a lot of bread. The kids do eat that.

Hmm. What else would be interesting to share? If I were a bit more organized, I'd come up with a list of funky, thought-provoking questions for everyone like, "If you were a vehicle, what kind would you be?". I had that question on a job interview once, and I still don't know how to answer it.

Oh, I also like to read, and I work in IT (but I don't like to read about IT).

Looking forward to hearing more about all of you!
Katie

Welcome!

2009-12-04T18:43:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the Fresh Comfort Virtual Quilting Bee! We are a group of 12 women from all over the US who are working together to make 12 quilts in the next year. Here's how it works . . .
1. Each month one person is in charge of the bee. (Let's just call her "The Queen".)
2. The Queen decides what kinds of blocks we'll make for that month.
3. The Queen also chooses (and purchases) the fabric for that month.
4. The Queen sends enough fabric out to the other 11 members (lets just call them "The Busy Bees") to make at least one block.
5. Each Busy Bee makes at least one block in the selected pattern and fabric and sends it back to the Queen.
6. The Queen can that do what she chooses with the blocks. She will most likely make a quilt.

That's it at a high level. I will post some gory details about block sizes, posting best practices, etc. in the next day or so.