Week 6 blocks started

The first block of the next set (technically week 6, though I just started 4 wks ago) is complete! YAY!! Happy Dancing. This week has 2 applique blocks and another pieced block that reminds me of the dark yellow and white of last week.

I feel like I'm ready for a break and do need to catch up on some of other projects. It's true---I do discuss other projects, promise! The next year or so will be primarily devoted to JANE, so please bear with my non-stop JANE-related postings. I will mix it up from time to time.

I have been neglecting some blocks that are now gathering dust and guilt is beginning to get to me. It's a hexagon project, though...so those of you who have done one inevitably reached this degree of avoidance at some point...or maybe it's just me!

Happy Quilting

Applique gets better with time & practice.

I've had some advice from an experienced applique quilty friend in Australia (Hi Cheese!! *waving*). She says applique gets better with time and practice. How much? Depends on the quilter...let's just say it will take me a bit more time but I'm pleased with the stitching for the most part on block 2 this week. It even has overlapping pieces...ooh la la! Now, don't go looking at the back because THAT is definitely not pretty but who's going to see that anyway? It's all good. I just keep telling myself I'm improving. What more could you ask for?

In other quilty business...I think JANE is trying to tell me to slow down. I used to sew at one speed: =SUPERFAST= with the pedal to the metal. As I progress, I notice the smallest seam can throw the look of a mini block off and I have to stop and tread cautiously over them like driving through a dangerous intersection. Hmmmm maybe my driving will improve, too but that's kind of doubtful.

The week has been a little hectic....ok, it's always hectic....especially hectic I should say.
Wishing all of us a PEACEFUL & PIECEFUL week.
Happy Quilting!!

First Applique Block

Here it is, curves and all!! It's not perfect but I'm begining to think none of these will be LOL.

I've decided to go ahead and invest in some silk thread. From what I understand, it blends the stitching in better than cotton or poly. I used the Gutermann I had on hand since it seemed like a good match for the background and this was just an experiment. I'll count it as done for now but may re-do when I get some more practice in.

Lesson for today: Life is short----GO FOR IT! 

Needle turn was NOT as hard as everyone told me it would be. 

It's about time we quilt fearlessly!

Happy Quilting

First Needle Turn Applique-----EVER

Well, I figured I'd be whipping this little block right up, no problem with gorgeous photos to boot. Not so much. I did complete half the block after having way too much caffeine late in the evening. A little advice from a novice:

A) Do not drink caffeine before attempting, especially if it is after 1 am (not a typo) and you have an unsteady hand when you're non-caffeinated.

B) If you are mid-winter and prone to dry skin, do yourself a favor and moisturize a good week or two before begining...vaseline coated hands wrapped in gloves sound like a perfect solution to some seriously chapped hands in this sleep deprived state.

C) Try to use a good light source. If your definition of a good light source is a bedside lamp with the wattage equivalent to that of a night light, wait until daybreak.

D) If you have a month or two before you plan to applique, do your best to grow some fingernails and practice pinching...hard. I think I need to practice the pinching...anyone?? LOL

It's getting done and I expect after a nice nap, I'll complete this little bugger. I'll take pix and post ASAP.
Happy Quilting!!

Week 4 Blocks Part II

Everything happens for a reason! The second time around, the eye block was MUCH easier. WHEW.