I'm March in Quilter's World 2021 Calendar

How's that for an attention getting headline ... I'm March in Quilter's World 2021 Calendar ?  

Well, technically, not me, myself but my quilt pattern design is!  I know, my pattern designs get all the fun :) 

Yes,  I'm excited to share my Marmalade pattern is the March quilt in the Quilter's World 2021 Calendar.

I just received my copy a few days ago and I can guarantee you that it is full of 12 gorgeous quilt projects that you can make in a day.  

Even though we still have a few months left in 2020, don't wait to purchase.  

I've provided a direct link for your convenience. 

#SewPINK Blog Hop - Starting October 1st

Again this year I am super excited to be partnering with ByAnnie and a who's who list of outstanding designers and quilters to bring you the #SewPINK Blog Hop for Breast Cancer Awareness.  As you probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  The blog hop officially starts tomorrow October 1st, but I wanted to give you a heads-up. 

The central hub for the Blog Hop is on the ByAnnie website.  Here is a direct link.  Located there is the updated list of bloggers, free pattern, sew-along schedule as well as important information about Breast Cancer.  

I hope you join us and sew something Pink this month! 

The #SewPink Initiative was created by ByAnnie.com LLC to raise awareness for breast cancer throughout the year. Our efforts culminate in an annual blog hop during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month to promote self-care, awareness, early detection and support for those affected by breast cancer. 

To learn more and see the calendar of events visit: https://www.ByAnnie.com/SewPINK

To find screenings available near you: 

• Breast Screen (Australia)

• CDC.gov (US)

• WebMD (free screenings)

To donate directly to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation visit: https://give.bcrf.org/give/31404/#!/donation/checkout

Don't miss these new listings in my Etsy shop - they will go fast!

Just a quick recap of some new listings I've added to my Etsy shop this morning.  

I wanted you to be the first to know.  

Not a lot of fluff in this post ... just photos & links to purchase.  

Don't just think about yourself and your stash but wouldn't these make great gifts for your quilting friends too.  Christmas will be here before we know it!  (YIKES - I can't believe I just typed that!)

RESTOCK Notice:  Curated 6 Fat Quarter bundle in a Brown & Black color combination.  There are only 6 bundles available!  Don't wait.  Link to Purchase. 

NEW Listing:  Michael Miller Fairy Frost - 17 Fat Quarters in the Frost group - lusciously glimmery metallic cottons in neutral palette.  Link to Purchase. 

NEW Listing: Michael Miller Cotton Couture - 18 Fat Quarters in the Sew Colorful Colorwheel collection.  Link to Purchase. 

RESTOCK Notice: Curated 6 Fat Quarter Blue, Black & Gray Bundle.  Perfect for Mask Making or restocking your stash.  Link to Purchase. 

Limberlost Mural in Geneva IN - Just had to share even thought it's not quilting!

So please pardon me as I share something other than quilting on the blog this morning...

As part of a regional arts initiative, our little bitty town of 1300 people in Northeast Indiana had a mural painted downtown earlier this month.   

I want to share a few photos I took last Saturday at the mural celebration. 

The scene depicts the Limberlost Nature area that surrounds the town.  Gene Stratton-Porter studied the local marshes and swamps in the late 1800's and early 1900's.  You can learn more about her at this link and the books that she wrote from her explorations.  The local Friends of the Limberlost also shares a lot of information on their Facebook page about the various wetlands and marshes that are being restored and rehabilitated. 

The red-headed woodpeckers are some of my favorite birds.  They love to hang out in the tree outside my studio window so I'm glad the muralist included them. I don't see them much in the summer but they are easy to spot in the winter against a snowy backdrop. 

The blue jays are such majestic birds.  They swoop in and swoop out of our feeder before I can ever get a photo of them.  I'm hoping to put up some type of blue jay feeder this winter but definitely one that is squirrel proof! 

My favorite - the blue Heron.  They are so elegant in flight.  I love spotting them along the river and in the wetlands.  And don't forget the turtle in the foreground! 

And we can't forget the Cardinal.  We have several pairs that feed year round.  The male is a brilliant red but the female has brown feathers. 

And last, but not least, is the Eagle.  According to the naturalists presentation, the bald eagle wasn't in this area during Gene Stratton Porter's time here, but now there are several nests in the area.  I saw my first one earlier this year and was simply in awe. 

Thanks for letting me take a break from my regular quilting posts and share a bit about my community.  Back to quilting :) 

 

Etsy Shop Sale on Spring Fabric Bundles

Like it or not, Fall is HERE!  

I even had a Frost Warning for tonight pop up on my phone this morning... YIKES ... I'm gonna be gathering sheets and covering plants.  I've still got a few summer flowers that are looking good and transitioning well into fall so I'd hate to loose them.  

To make room for new Fall and Christmas items coming, I'm running a 15% off sale on several Spring Bundles.  

If you click the link below, Etsy should automatically take 15% off  on the sale items.  

https://www.etsy.com/shop/MasterpieceQuilting?coupon=BYEBYESUMMER

If it doesn't work, then use the coupon code BYEBYESUMMER when you check out. 

Yes, I can handle hard things, but sometimes it's the easy things that trip me up - like setting up coupon codes!  #dontjudge #itsbeenalongweek 

Anyway - here are the bundles that are on sale ... And don't forget ...  FREE shipping too! 

6 Fat Quarter bundle - Solids - All Robert Kauffman Kona Cotton.  The perfect mix of pastels.

12 Fat Quarter bundle flannel - all quilt shop quality from leading manufacturers.  This would make the most perfect baby quilt, won't it? 

12 Fat Quarter bundle quilting cottons - all quilt shop quality from leading manufacturers.  Each bundle is just a bit different but includes a wide variety of spring colors and patterns. 

Exclusively Annie's Star Studded Quilt Pattern

As much as I'm absorbed in all things Fall right now, Christmas is just around the corner and now is the perfect time to start making a new quilt either as a gift or to enjoy yourself.   

I'm pleased to share my Star Studded quilt design that is now available as an Exclusively Annie's pattern. 

Purchase Pattern Link

Photo Cred: Annie's 

Purchase Pattern Link 

I'm always being asking where did the inspiration come for my quilt designs - well, this one is based off my ear rings!  

I normally wear diamond studded ear rings.  So if you see me in something else, you know it's a special occasion.  If you look at the blocks, you will see how the stars burst from the center in a same way my diamond stud ear rings refract light from the center.  

To make the blocks a little extra special, I fussy cut the center fabric from a poinsettia print and then went totally scrappy with the sashing and borders.  I think it is the perfect mix of planned and unplanned. 

Personally, I love a non-directional quilt.  It makes it easier to throw on a bed or across the couch if you don't have to worry about which end should be at the top! 

I'd love to see the version you make of Star Studded!  Be sure to tag me on social media as @masterpiecequilting

The Comforts of Home - Welcome Video

Last week I shared just a bit about my new The Comforts of Home e-book that will be available mid-October.  Your response has been overwhelming - Thank You!

To answer a few of the questions I've received - No this is not your typical quilt pattern book - it is so MUCH more!   5 new patterns, 5 family-tested recipes plus decorating and entertaining tips.  

What's my goal?  To create a go-to resource to help you move away from the same seasonal decor year-after-year and the same predicable menu served at every gathering.  Gatherings are meant to be enjoyed - not stressed over! 

In this quick video, I'm sharing more about The Comforts of Home. 

Don't wait, join the wait list today by clicking this link.  

Christmas Diamond Topper in Quilter's World Deck the Halls with Quilting

It is so much fun when quilts come back from the publisher!  It's so hard to work on projects in secret and not tell anyone about them for months - but now I can spread the news. 

Today I'm sharing my Christmas Diamond Topper that is in Quilter's World new Deck the Halls with Quilting publication. 

Link to purchase the pattern 

This paper-pieced quilted topper brings a touch of Christmas elegance to your holiday table.  

Last year I struggled with having enough Christmas-themed table toppers, so it was my mission to design more for this year.  I was specifically lacking a small square topper for our kitchen table that only seats four people.  I wanted to make sure the design was non-directional since people sit on all sides of the table. 

And YES, I do use quilts that have been published in my house, even on an everyday basis!  Please don't freak out ....  quilts are made to be loved and to be used ... they can't get much loving if they are tucked away in a drawer. 

Here is what the topper looks like on our kitchen table. 

Link to purchase the pattern

To keep the topper nice and flat but still let the dimension and texture of the quilting show, I used Soft & Bright batting graciously provided by The Warm Company. 

New Listings in my Etsy shop

It's been a while since I shared some of the new listings in my Etsy shop! 

If you are just browsing about - here is the direct link to the entire shop.  Patterns, fabrics, books and DVD's all available with free shipping too! 

For the new items, I've added the link within the description. 

FLAT FOLD YARDAGE

2.5 yards x WOF (42" - 44") quilting cotton in a beige tonal.  Perfect for backgrounds, borders and binding.  I have a variety of these.  If you are purchasing two for a backing, make a note or send me a convo thru Etsy so I can make sure they match. 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/863625559

PRECUT 2.5" x WOF STRIPS

40 strips with 2 strips of 20 different prints in a mix of brown, deep red, green, beige, gold and orange.   These are another fall favorite that is selling quickly and prefect for making either the Sunburst Strips & Squares or Peacock Proud quilt. 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/843545144 

 

MYSTERY BAG OF AUTUMNAL REMNANTS

Who doesn't love a scrap bag ... especially of fall's favorite colors.  These are value prices, so buy one for yourself and another to gift to a friend.  

https://www.etsy.com/listing/839797630

6 "OUR PICK" FAT QUARTER BUNDLE  

Does your stash need a boost?  This "our pick" bundle is sure to please with classic fall favorite colors at a reduced price compared to our other bundles.  

https://www.etsy.com/listing/851203982

The Comforts of Home - A New E-Book Celebrating Quilting + Cooking

I am so excited share a new project I'm working on - The Comforts of  Home.  It's a mix of quilting patterns, recipes, decorating and entertaining tips.  Everything you need to make your house comfortable for friends and family.  

I'm on target for a mid-October 2020 release date.  The Comforts of Home will be available as an E-book so you can purchase, download and start creating right away!  

Currently, I have started a wait list so you will be the first to know when it is available and you will also get exclusive behind-the-scenes photos and videos as I'm putting the book together. 

Join the Wait List

Quick Links - Quilt Candy Virtual Trunk Show + Designer Tips & Techniques

When 2020 started to get crazy in the Spring, quilt designers responded with Facebook Live presentations to share their work with new audiences.  We started with the Quilt Candy Virtual Trunk Show in April and evolved in the Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Shows in May.  

This is a fun and new way to reach customers and I have to say by the comments - a good time has been had by all!  I'm grateful for all the kind comments and encouragement I've received from everyone. 

Here are some quick links to each of my presentations for your viewing pleasure. I have added them to my YouTube channel to make it easy for everyone to watch.  To see more of my YouTube videos - be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel too. 

April 1, 2020 -  Trunk Show

April 9, 2020 - Trunk Show

May 2020 - Working with Problem Panels

July 2020 - Batting Basics

August 2020 - Organization & Workflow

September 2020 - Tips for Accurate Cutting

October 2020 - Fall Quilt Trunk Show

Masterpiece Quilting Studio News - Do you subscribe?

With all the craziness of the world, social media isn't always a fun place to hang out anymore.  I know a lot of you aren't as active as you used to be ... and ya know what, I understand completely! 

Back in June, I started sending out weekly newsletters - Masterpiece Quilting Studio News.  It's not the most catchy title, but it accurately describes what I'm sharing - news from my Masterpiece Quilting Biz. 

The newsletter contains upcoming blog hops and other events I'm participating in, latest pattern releases, listings in my Etsy shop and right now, an Exclusive Behind the Scenes look of my next book The Comforts of Home.

If you aren't already a subscriber, I'd love to have you join.  

It's super easy to sign up for the newsletter - all I need is your email.  

And I promise I won't spam you! 

Just click this link. 

I always believe Sharing is Caring - so please share this blog post with your quilting friends too. 

Thursday September 3 - Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Show

It's the final day of the Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Show and today's designer lineup is simply amazing!  It's gonna be a busy and informative day. 

Here is the schedule for today - 

12:00 PM  Debbie Wendt  https://www.facebook.com/Wendt-Quilting-280123925340667  
2:00 PM  Daisy Aschehoug  http://facebook.com/warmfolk  
3:00 PM  Becca Fenstermaker  https://facebook.com/prettypiney 

4:00 PM  Patti Carey  https://www.facebook.com/Pattis-Patchwork-464368707643825  
5:00 PM  Heidi Pridemore  https://www.facebook.com/heidipridemorewhimsicalworkshop  
6:00 PM  Reed Johnson for Blue Bear Quilts  https://www.facebook.com/BlueBearQuilts  
7:00 PM  Dragonfly's Quilting Design Studio  https://www.facebook.com/dragonflysquiltingdesignstudio  
8:00 PM  Scott A Flanagan  https://www.facebook.com/4thandmaindesigns  

To make sure you don't miss a presentation - go ahead and like / follow each designers Facebook page so you receive a notification when they go LIVE. 

Wednesday September 2 - Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Show

Weren't yesterday's presentations amazing!  I had a meeting yesterday afternoon but I had an opportunity to catch the replays last night and I learned so much.   (Yes, go back to each designers FB page and you should be able to catch a replay there.  It's kinda like binge watching them.) 

I'm on the line-up today for 2 p.m.  I hope you join me!  It's always fun to have a LIVE audience besides the dogs :) 

We have a busy day of shows today - I'm so excited. 

Wednesday September 2nd 
12:00 PM  Teresa Weaver  https://www.facebook.com/yoursewingfriend  
1:00 PM  Cherry Guidry  https://www.facebook.com/CherryBlossomsQuiltingStudio/  
2:00 PM  Nancy Scott  http://www.facebook.com/MasterpieceQ 
4:00 PM  Sue Griffiths  https://www.facebook.com/duckcreekmountainquilting/  
5:00 PM  Swan Sheridan  https://www.facebook.com/swanamitystudios  
6:00 PM  Tammy Silvers of Tamarinis  https://www.facebook.com/tamarinis  
7:00 PM  Bunnie Cleland  https://www.facebook.com/TriangleFrenzy  

As a tip so you don't miss anyone, go ahead and like / follow each designer's facebook page so you get a reminder notification when the LIVE presentation starts. 

Tuesday September 1 - Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Show Schedule

 Here is today's schedule for the Designer Tips & Techniques Virtual Show.  

Tuesday September 1st 
2:00 PM  Annette Ornelas  https://www.facebook.com/southwind.designs/  
3:00 PM  Kate Colleran  https://www.facebook.com/SeamsLikeaDreamQuilts  
5:00 PM  Marlene Oddie  http://www.facebook.com/kissedquilts 
6:00 PM  Tammy Silvers of Tamarinis  https://www.facebook.com/tamarinis  

To make sure you don't miss any of the presentations, I like to go ahead and like / follow each designer's facebook page in advance so I receive a notification that they are going live.   Enjoy!