Wednesday, January 12, 2011

A new challenge

I have never really done applique. Nope. Until now. One of my blocks for testing for the 100 blocks magazine involved fusible applique and machine blanket stitching. The directions were so good, that this was amazingly simple! Why did I not know this? My Trees of Life quilt top involves applique. Turn needle applique. I loved that...and got 1/4 of the way through the handstitching and didn't love it so much anymore. I am thinking I am going to redo those applique this way..fusing and machine blanket stitching! woohooo!

This block I did reminded me of a project I saw a while ago. It was a Folk Art Tribute BOM over at Linen Closet Quilts. I really love folk art and folk art quilts, but all that applique that can come with them scared the bejeezus outta me. Now that I have done this technique, I have decided I am jumping right in with both feet on this BOM. I think she is on the 4th block now, but after looking at the blocks, they are large simple blocks, so shouldn't take long to catch right up. I am SO excited about this! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE learning new things like this and finding new ways to be creative! I sure would like some company on this. It would be fun to work along and share our progress and pictures. Anyone interested? The blocks are not linked on her webpage, so you have to look back through older posts to get to the blocks she has done already, but it is not a big deal. I think the first block was in her Sept 2, 2010 post. Sure hope you decide to play along!

No other sewing for me lately. Just working away and wishing for more blizzard!

Frugal tip:

Use cloth napkins and rags, not paper napkins and paper towels. How simple is it to whip up lots of cloth napkins out of our stashes and save on all the money??

5 comments:

  1. I am a raw edge applique gal.
    I also make and use cloth napkins-
    can't wait to see your blocks.

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  2. I hate paper napkins and never use them. I have a big stack of pretty napkins that I've picked up at yard sales and thrift stores for pennies each. I have a half bushel basket full of cleaning rags that I've made from old clothes. No paying for something I'll use once and toss. Except for the one paper towel I use to drain my bacon. Can't give that up. lol

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  3. All cloth napkins here, too...
    I'm a bit overstretched on projects right now -but need to work on conquering applique fears, too!!! Eventually

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  4. Actually, I "cheated" a few years ago and bought some extra long (120") tablecloths for my table in various colors at Target on clearance for $1.48 each and bought a second one in each color to cut up into napkins! Pretty cheap napkins and they've held up beautifully (plus they match my tablecloths!)!

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  5. Love your frugal tips Reenie but can't see my littles using cloth napkins.I did buy cheap washcloths in pretty colors and use those for washing up after lunch.So much nicer than paper.
    Not ready to tackle another project but can't wait to see your BOM

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