Beehive Quilts

Video on how to make a tissue holder - EASY

2012-03-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

I see patterns and ideas on how to make easy tissue (Kleenex) holders to carry in your purse or car. Here is one that is easy to follow and very easy to make. I thought you might like to make one, too.

Follow this link:
http://www.rileyblakedesigns.com/how-to-videos/

Keep on Quilting

Valentine's Day Table Runner

2012-02-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

Sure. I know. Valentine's Day is over. I hope you all had a great one. My dear husband brought me beautiful flowers, and we went to see a movie - One for the Money. It was really entertaining.

Anyway I found this morning a free pattern for a Valentine's Day table runner. I had looked for an easy one last week but never got around to making one for my home. I thought perhaps I would go ahead and make this one now, so I have it for next year. Looks really easy and fun to do. Plus it would be appropriate for other days, too. Birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

Here is the link to it: http://www.cottagequiltdesigns.info/SHT.pdf

Keep on Quilting!

Great quote

2012-02-04T16:25:00.001-08:00

"We can't all be heroes because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by."

Will Rogers

Wow! I love this blog!

2012-01-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

All you quilters and embroidery specialists, you have got to go to this blog. Kaaren offers First Friday Freebies (FFF). They are adorable embroidery patterns that you can download for free. She even has a 10 month Raggedy Ann BOM (Block of the Month) that complete patterns are there for you to download. I am definitely doing that one. I love Raggedy Ann; I love embroidery; best of all I love FREE.

Go see all she has to offer at http://thepaintedquilt.blogspot.com/

Keep on Quilting!

Aquarius quilters

2012-01-20T14:13:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the dawning of Aquarius, Aquarius.

For all of you that were born between January 21st to February 19th, here is your quilting guild astrology:

Aquarius, you would do well to find a guild that is big on spontaneity and short on rules. A group with tight structure makes you wiggle in your seat, but a circle if creative minds that come together to brainstorm is just perfect for you! Fina a group that will enjoy and appreciate your eccentric point of view--and if you cannot find this group, then start your own group of inventive artistic quilters with a sense of adventure and playfulness. You need a safe place to share your wild innovations and to nurture other who are exploring their own unconventional fiber experiments.

This was taken from the February 2003 McCall's Quilting and written by Luana Rubin.

Keep on Quilting!

Valentines Day Quilt Pattern by Lori Holt

2012-01-19T14:13:00.000-08:00

I love Lori Holt's patterns. We carry all her applique patterns on our website at http://www.beehivequilts.com/. We sell a lot of them, too. Last time I ordered, I ordered her Valentine quilt pattern, along with others that I already carried. This is it:

You could get it and have it made to display before Valentines Day 2012. Order it at http://www.beehivequilts.com/valentinesquiltpattern. Great gift, too.

Keep on Quilting

Fabrics offered

2012-01-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

Beehive Quilts received a shipment of fabric recently that is just adorable. It is a few bolts from Red Rooster fabric distributor. The line is called Always Believe. Yes, it is Christmas fabric. It is my belief that it is never too early to purchase Christmas fabric and start working on next year's projects. Here are pictures of the fabric:

We are also working on a pattern that will incorporate all the fabrics. When we get that together, we will kit some of this fabric. We will post a picture of the finished quilt when it gets completed.

Red Rooster also offers a free pattern on their website for this fabric. You can see it at http://www.redroosterfabrics.com/contentmgr/showdetails.php/id/8857.

If you are interested in any of this fabric, we offer it at http://www.beehivequilts.com/redrooster. The price is reasonable at only $8 per yard. All of Beehive Quilts' fabric is $8 or less. We even have one bolt listed at $3 per yard.

Keep on Quilting

Table Runner Pattern - EASY

2011-12-29T11:23:00.000-08:00

Okay Christmas is over. I just have not had time to sit and look through different posts of quilting/sewing ideas. I came across two videos of easy to do Christmas table runners. Something you could make now with all your Christmas fabric still out and put away for a gift or decoration for next Christmas season.

Go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp6eVzKF34w. Easy, easy, easy to do. Can be done with layer cakes or Christmas scrap fabric.

Here is another one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27r6eGwDzXA&feature=relmfu

Both easy to do. Both beautiful.

Keep on Quilting!

One spectacular post - FREE Quilt Patterns

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

Want a good resource to find quilt patterns. Through QuiltingBoard.com, I found a blog site that has taken the time to list out a lot of sites you can find free patterns at. Then to top it off, she broke down the sites into categories. It is a great place to visit to see what is out there.

Check it out at http://www.with-heart-and-hands.com/2007/10/free-quilting-patterns.html. It is worth looking through it.

Keep on Quilting!

BHQ's wishes for a New Year

2011-12-28T12:21:00.000-08:00

The holidays are over. Soon it will be time to clean up the Christmas tree and all the trimmings. I hate to see them go since we got them up so late.

Sunday is New Year's day. What a wonderful time to look back and see what was accomplished this past year and plan for our upcoming year. How exciting that we get one day every year to sort of clean the slate and go forward.

My goal is to go through all those kits, panels and fabric I have purchased and actually set down a plan for what I will work on next. I have so much. I could stay busy for an awful long time and still have more to do. One of my goals should be to stay away from quilt stores and quilt shows. I just cannot resist purchasing when I am there.

One UFO that must be worked on is my Wildflower Rhapsody BOM quilt. I love it and really want to make sure it is finished before 2012 is gone.

We would love to hear what your goals for 2012 are. But more than anything:

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM for December

2011-12-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

Apologies are at hand. I went to the post office yesterday to retrieve my mail. In my PO Box was a note to pick up excessive mail. Upon getting to the clerk, which took 20 minutes, they handed me a box with all the envelopes with the BOM block in it that was mailed out last Saturday. Sheesh!

My mailer posted too little postage on each and every envelope. It was totally my fault. I purchased new envelopes. They were a smidgeon over the limit for the price that charged for it. So this morning, I added more postage to them all. They will go back to the post office today to be mailed out.

My total apologies to each of you for being so late.

Keep on Quilting!

and your block will be there soon

Chocolate and Cotton Quilt Store in Thousand Oaks CA

2011-12-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

We just returned from southern California. It was our grandson's 13th birthday. What a fun day we had.

Now he went to school that morning, so I had to find myself something to do during the day because Gil went golfing with our sons. The quilt shop in Simi Valley, where we were staying, closed earlier this year. Boo Hoo. I grieve for any store that does not make it. We all try so hard to keep it going, but quilting is something people can give up to save money. It really effects the local quilt store (LQS). I have stated before here, go see your LQS every month and purchase at least $10 of product or take a class every month. Help them keep open!

Now back to my story. I googled quilt stores near Simi Valley and up came several. The closest was Chocolate and Cotton Quilt Store. Of course I had to go there since chocolate was part of its name. Two of my favorite things to do.....

They had all their Christmas fabric on sale for 40% off. I found a stack of cut fabrics that were adorable and flannel to boot. I had to get that for my daughter, Elisa. She was taking care of our dog, Mochi. I also found some beautiful fabric and charm packs that I had to have. Plus I found a cool tool that I purchased for my Secret Pal with Rivercity Guild in Sacramento. What a joy it was to be there. Of course I spent way too much. It will go to a good cause - me quilting and staying sane.

You can find out more about this quilt shop at http://www.cottonandchocolate.com/

Here is some of the stuff I purchase:

This is a charm pack of Moda's American Banner Rose. I only purchased two charm packs because I so loved the design. I wanted to remember the name so I can purchase more later and come up with a quilt later. I love Charm Packs, as they are so easy to work with and start an easy quilt. No pattern necessary if you just want to sash and sew together. Easy peasy.

The second 2 Charm Packs that I purchased is from Moda's Panier de Fleurs by French General. This is stunning, also. With these two packs, I purchase one yard of the design below and a half yard of the red. I might need to find the line else where, but at least I have a start. If you ever plan on purchasing like I do, remember to start the quilt right away. If it becomes part of your stash and you get back to it two years later, you might have trouble finding coordinating fabrics.

Purchased 1 yard of this fabric. It is sooo beautiful. The picture is nice, but the fabric is a lot more stunning.

This is the red fabric I purchase only a half of a yard of. I know I am going to be sorry I did not spend the little extra to purchase at least a full yard.

December block for Wildflower Rhapsody BOM

2011-12-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

Those who are receiving the blocks for the Wildflower Rhapsody did not receive a picture of the completed block this month. Sorry about that. Sometimes life gets too busy to sew and that is what happened last month. Here is December's beautiful block:

There are only three more blocks to be mailed out. You will receive one in January, February and March and then it is up to you to finish the quilt up. I hope you are enjoying doing this fantastic quilt.

Send me a picture of your completed block before January 1, 2012 and you can be entered into the drawing for a wall quilt hanger.

Keep on Quilting!

November block for the Wildflower Rhapsody BOM

2011-11-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

This is your November block #8.

We have to apologize. It is late going out. Some were mailed this afternoon. The rest should be mailed Monday or Tuesday. They are coming!

Keep on Quilting!

Cure Alls - Most I have never heard of before

2011-11-04T13:37:00.000-07:00

Here are some relief aids I have never heard of. Some I probably would not do - especially the Gatorade one since I cannot stand the taste of Gatorade. The others are pretty interesting. Know that I have not tried any of these. I just thought they were worth reading. Take them for what they are worth.

Who knew?

Did you know that drinking two glasses of Gatorade can relieve headache pain almost immediately-without the unpleasant side effects caused by traditional pain relievers?

Did you know that Colgate Toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns?

Before you head to the drugstore for a high-priced inhaler filled with mysterious chemicals, try chewing on a couple of curiously strong Altoids peppermints. They'll clear up your stuffed nose.

Achy muscles from a bout of the flu? Mix 1 tablespoon horseradish in 1 cup of olive oil. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then apply it as a massage oil for instant relief for aching muscles.

Sore throat? Just mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of honey and take 1 tablespoon six times a day. The vinegar kills the bacteria.

Cure urinary tract infections with Alka-Seltzer. Just dissolve two tablets in a glass of water and drink it at the onset of the symptoms. Alka-Seltzer begins eliminating urinary tract infections almost instantly-even though the product was never advertised for this use.

Honey remedy for skin blemishes... cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a Band-Aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds healing. Works overnight.

Listerine therapy for toenail fungus: Get rid of unsightly toenail fungus by soaking your toes in Listerine Mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

Easy eyeglass protection... to prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of Maybelline Crystal Clear Nail Polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them.

Cleaning liquid that doubles as bug killer... if menacing bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets get in your home and you can't find the insecticide, try a spray of Formula 409. Insects drop to the ground instantly.

Smart splinter remover: Just pour a drop of Elmer's Glue-All over the splinter, let dry, and peel the dried glue off the skin. The splinter sticks to the dried glue.

Hunt's Tomato Paste boil cure... cover the boil with Hunt's Tomato Paste as a compress. The acids from the tomatoes soothe the pain and bring the boil to a head.

Balm for broken blisters... to disinfect a broken blister, dab on a few drops of Listerine, a powerful antiseptic.

Vinegar to heal bruises... soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and apply it to the bruise for 1 hour. The vinegar reduces the blueness and speeds up the healing process.

Quaker Oats for fast pain relief... it's not for breakfast any more! Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and warm in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain.

Now you can Keep on Quilting!

I am a Preferred Member at Joann's Fabric Store

2011-10-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Yes. I am special. I am a preferred member at Joann's. Do I purchase fabric there? No, I do not. I prefer to honor my local quilt shop (LQS) first with my dollars. Having owned my own bricks and mortar quilt shop, I know how difficult it is to keep it well stocked if people do not buy the fabric there. Since the prices are close enough (except for sales), why not give our small business owners the money instead?

Now that said, Joann's carries a lot of things you cannot get at our LQS. So I do shop there occasionally. My dear daughter let me know you can apply for a preferred member card, which gives you 10% off your purchase every time you get something there. Good deal.

I received my first one over a year ago. Last month I went in and tried to use it, but it had expired. So I had to re-apply. Today I received an e-mail with a coupon for 20% off my entire purchase, including sale items. Too good to be true. I love their Halloween decorations, so perfect timing. Yeah!

Do you want to receive your preferred member card. Just click on the following link: http://www.joann.com/joann/common/content_custservice.jsp;jsessionid=382B648ED86CBBD6AA1EC28C793346F2.a5p1?catName=VIPDiscounts

Keep on Quilting!

Amish Country Quilt Show

2011-10-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to see those Amish quilts up close and personal. In June you will have a chance. If you live near Ohion or want to plan a super trip to see quilts, plan to attend this quilt show.

I received the following message today:

We are very excited to announce the dates for the 11th Annual Amish Country Quilt Show, June 7-9th, 2012 at the Buckeye Expo Center in Dalton OH. Keep an eye out for additional information about the Amish Country Quilt Show, or you can also go to the web site at http://www.amishcountryquiltshow.com/.

As stated on their website, there is a lot to do there:
Annual Quilt Contest
Quilt Seminars and Workshops
Amish Quilting Bee
Trained Sewing Instructor 3-Day Program.
Learn more at http://www.trainedsewinginstructor.com/.
Quilt Displays
Quilt Appraisals
Quilt Guilds

I have never been, but I have been looking for somewhere that would be fun, different and away from the west coast. Perhaps this is it.

Keep on Quilting

Going to a long arm quilter? Here is a checklist before you go

2011-10-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Checklist for taking your quilt to a long arm quilter:

Top and backing is pressed and clean
Drape over padded hangers to prevent wrinkles
Top and backing are accurately squared
Backing and batting are at least 6" larger than the top and sides
Top edges of quilt top and backing are marked
Call ahead to schedule the quilting service
Consider designs and patterns for the quilting for your quilt. The more planning you do, the happier you will be with the finished project.
Decide on threads and batting. Discuss these with the quilter.
Clearly communicate any ideas or thoughts you have with the quilter.
Get a business card/phone number from the quilter.
Get an estimated time the quilt will be ready for pick up. Know you are not their only customer, so do not expect it to be done within a few days.

Keep on Quilting

Calculate backing and binding website

2011-09-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Do you hate math? You betcha!

Here is a website that will figure the amount of backing material needed for any size quilt, and then tell you how to put it together to work. Yeah. I love it!

It will also tell you how much binding fabric you will need for that size quilt.

Just go to http://www.mywebquilter.com/index.aspx to let them figure it out. FREE!

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM another one sent in

2011-09-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

Well autumn is here and quilting is in the air. We received another block for September. This is Betty W's block. Good job, Betty.

Keep on Quilting!

More Wildflower Rhapsody BOM blocks turned in for September's incentive

2011-09-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

Here are two more blocks of Wildflower Rhapsody BOM from September.

Above block is Teri Beeman's block.

And this is Renea A's block.

Keep sending them in. I am sure all of you who are participating in Beehive Quilt's Wildflower Rhapsody what a chance at receiving this incentive. The package contains 1/8 yard of fabric cut in fat style. Each of the fabrics used in these main blocks are represented here.

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM blocks turned in so far for September's incentive

2011-09-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

Here are two beautiful September 2011 blocks turned in to be eligible for the incentive prize for September.

This is Gloria D's beautiful block.

And this is Sue Ds' block.

These ladies are eligible for the September Wildflower Rhapsody BOM incentive drawing. It is a packet of all the fabric used in the main blocks. Each cut if a fat eighth. If they do not need the fabric as time goes on, they can defintely use it to make a coordinating pillow or small table topper to go with the quilt.

If you are involved with this BOM through http://www.beehivequilts.com/, send us a picture of your block before the end of September 30th and you will be eligible, too.

Keep on Quilting!

LQS Closing in Martinez CA

2011-09-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

Local quilt store closing. I hate to see announcements like this go out. Before long it will be either the internet stores or Joann's, Beverly's or the like that we will have to shop at. I shop at Beverly's on a regular basis, but I love to go to local quilt stores. They know your name, they have intimate classes, they do the research to know what their customers want. We need to support them through difficult times.

Final Day September 28, 2011

To all of my customers I want to say thank you so very much for 6-1/2 great fun years. To those of you who survived our Labor Day Monday sale, my hat is off to you and if you would like, we have buttons available
here at the store that say "I survived Susie's sale 9/5/11". Come on by and pick one up.

Our final day that we will be open is Wednesday, September 28th 9:30-5:30.

We need the next two days to clean up and clear out of here.

There is still a good amount of fabric available, books and patterns.

Everything is 50% off, and Paul says he has NO ROOM in his GARAGE, so I would like for everything to go.

I will miss you all and will send an email out as soon as I get the long arm set up at the house and start quilting and whatevery else God has in store for me. Again, thank you all for the pleasure of serving you and getting to know you. I also so appreciate all of you that let me see your finished projects.

That has been such a joy.

Regards,

Bless you all, and again Thank you,

Susie

Main Street Quilts

533 Main Strret
Martinez
CA
94533

To Susie, I do not know more than what you have written above, but I know you will find that now you will have time to work on the projects you have not been able to tackle while you had the store. I wish you well.

Peggy

Keep on Quilting!

Needle Nellies Quilt Show in Georgetown CA This Weekend

2011-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Quilt show in Georgetown this weekend

September 17, 2011: Georgetown Outdoor Quilt Show

Elisa, Lorena and I went last year. It was lots of fun and beautiful quilts. Plan to make a day of it. It is out in the city park and the drive to get there is a nice one. Have fun.

Sponsored by the Needle Nellies of Georgetown. Event to be held at Georgetown Park, Harkness & South Streets, Georgetown, CA. Hours: Sat, 10-4pm

Want to go to the gold country for a nice drive today AND a quilt show? Go to Auburn. Then:

Take exit #119C/ELM AVE - go 0.2 mile

Turn Left on ELM AVE - go 0.1 mile

Turn Left on HIGH ST(CA-193)

Continue to follow CA-193

Turn Right on COLOMA RD(CA-49) - go 3.6 miles

Turn Left on CA-193 - go 12. miles

Arrive at the center of 95634 Georgetown

Keep on Quilting

Quilt of the Month for sale

2011-09-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

Beehive Quilts will be placing a quilt for sale at a greatly reduced price on a regular basis. Yipee Yi Little Cowgirl quilt was listed today. It is a one of a kind quilt and once it is purchased, a new quilt be posted. Keep checking back to see what new quilt is listed.

Originally listed at $275.

Now only $75.

Machine quilted.

To see more on the current quilt, go to http://www.beehivequilts.com/.

Keep on Quilting!

Elk Grove CA Quilt Show 2011

2011-09-11T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Elisa, Lorena and I, went to the Elk Grove Quilt Guild show. It was a great show to attend. Beautiful quilts. Terrific vendors. Such fun. Below are some of the quilts we saw there.

Like I said, Lorena went with us. She is just ready to turn 17 years old. Her mom took up quilting a few years ago when our shop was open. Where she loves fabric and quilting, she is not totally enthused with going to quilt shows. She loves to go with us, though, because we always go out to lunch afterwards. So as I tried to take pictures of some of the beautiful quilts, she was jumping in front of the camera just as I was ready to take the picture. I have many of them with her there, but I liked this one best.

When we had our shop open, Diane Steele did a Block of the Month of us. She designed it as she went along. We offered twelve blocks for free if you came in to pick up the block on the designated day. We also offered another block most months for an additional fee, for a total of 20 blocks. One of our customers, Karen Lewis, entered the following quilt made from that block of the month. I love her finished quilt.

And this is the write up she did for the quilt:

Thank you, Karen, for mentioning Beehive Quilts. Even though the store is no longer there, we still exist on the internet.

Of course there are always Halloween quilts, which are my favorites. Here are just two offered at the show:

I LOVE this pattern with the embroidery. Someday I am going to purchase the pattern and make this quilt myself.

I seldom take pictures of the vendors quilts on display, but this one I just love. I should have bought it. After all, we are BEEHIVE QUILTS.

Too cute!

Love going to quilt shows. I am so glad the "season" for quilt shows is starting back up. Can't wait for the next one.

Keep on Quilting

How to photograph your quilt

2011-09-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

With quilt shows starting back up after a summer lull, pictures are occasionally requested to be submitted with application to the guild(s). Go to http://www.quiltviews.com/how-to-photograph-a-quilt-video to see a good video presented by AQS on how to best photograph your quilts.

Use these ideas to get the best picture possible to post your quilt on e-Bay, etsy or any other place you might be trying to sell your quilts. Pictures, good pictures, help sell your quilts. People do not always read what you type, but they always look at the pictures. Do not forget to take a picture of the back of your quilt, too. Potential buyers will want to see the fabric used on the backing as well as the front.

We occasionally list quilts and other items on e-Bay and etsy. If you need assistance in this process, contact me at contact@beehivequilts.com. I can give you other hints.

Keep on Quilting!

August Wildflower Rhapsody BOM Pictures

2011-08-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

I guess everyone is or has been on vacation. I had not received many pictures of finished block, but they are starting to come in now. Below are Renea A and Gloria D's blocks. If you have finished your block, send me a picture before midnight on Wednesday this week. Just need to have it before the drawing is held on the 1st of September. Remember the incentive award is a pattern to make Lori Holt's applique pattern Quilter's World. A fun and unique pattern. We sell it for $22 on our website. If you belong to Beehive Quilt's Wildflower Rhapsody BOM, you can participate - just send us a picture of your August completed block.

Good job, ladies. By the way Gloria lives in New England area and has had problems with electricity. I hope she is well and her house is in no danger of the flooding. The same to all you the area that has been affected by Irene.

Renea A block. She added a couple of applique to her block.

Gloria D's block.

Measuring Your Bed for a Quilt

2011-08-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

The following information was on Blank Quilting e-mail. To see all that Blank Quilting has to offer, go to http://www.blankquilting.com/. I love their website because they have a lot of free patterns you can download.

Measuring Your Bed for a Quilt

When making quilt for a bed we often forget to consider the size of the bed, resulting in a quilt that is too short or hangs down to the floor.

Measure the mattress width (A) and add twice the length (B) of the quilt that hangs over the mattress. This is called the "drop." (C)

For coverlets: measure from the top of the mattress to slightly past the bottom of the bed rail.

If you want the quilt to cover your pillows, measure the mattress length, then add one drop length plus 10" to 20".

Keep on Quilting!

A Quilter's Garden Block of the Month (BOM)

2011-08-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Beehive Quilts is offering a beautiful Block of the Month (BOM) starting in January 2012. This BOM offers several pieced blocks and appliquéd vine to really give it a garden look.

The fabrics used will come from a collection by Lydia Quigley of the Rabbit Factory and sold by Clothworks Textiles. You can see that collection at http://www.clothworkstextiles.com/collection.asp?ID=302.

As we have done in the past we are trying to keep the costs down for you, the quilter. This beautiful quilt will be just $18.95 per month, pattern included. The normal cost for the pattern is $18.

To sign up for this BOM, just go to Beehive Quilts and pay $25 for the signup fee, which locks you into being part of this beautiful BOM. This is a non-refundable fee. Then on January 1st (or 2nd), you will be charged the $12 for the pattern and $18.95 for the first block for a total of $30.95. On the first of each month you will be charged only $18.95 for that month’s block. All blocks will be mailed no later than the 10th of each month. It is a 12 month program and the last block will be sent in December 2012.

We offer a chance with our BOM participants to win a gift each month. This will be offered with this quilt as well.

Sign up now to be part of this fun BOM program.

Annoucement of Two New Block of the Month Programs

2011-08-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

Beehive Quilts is proud to announce that two new BOM programs will be starting January 2012.

One is Lori Holt's design called Apron Club. It will be a quilt done in 1930s reproduction fabrics with a white background fabric.

The other BOM called A Quilter's Garden from the Rabbit Factory and fabric from Clothworks.

Watch our website for the ability to sign up for these BOMs. The sign up will be posted there soon.

Keep on Quilting!

Flying Geese Tutorial - Sew Easy

2011-08-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Love to have flying geese in your quilts but hate to make flying geese? Watch this tutorial by Ricky Tims. You will never be hesitant to make those geese again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78Mu0C_QL8Y

Here is a link to several other ways to make the flying geese pattern. I usually do the second one. They each have their own advantages. Try each one and see which one works best for you.

http://www.quilterscache.com/H/Howtomakegeese.html

Keep on Quilting

BOM Incentive Winner for July's Block

2011-08-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations goes out to Rene A. She is the winner of the July BOM incentive. She will receive a kit for a Doggie wall hanging.

August's incentive is a copy of Lori Holt's quilt pattern called Quilter's World. This pattern is an applique pattern. To go along with the pattern, the winner will also receive a package of Lite Steam-A-Seam to assist in the applique process if they want to do the iron on and stitch on the edge applique.

To be part of this incentive drawing, all you have to do is be a member of Beehive Quilts Wildflower Rhapsody BOM and send a copy of your finished August block to me before the end of the month. The drawing is always held on the 1st of the next month.

Good luck.

Keep on Quilting

Lori Holt's Quilt Pattern
Incentive for the August BOM.

Christmas in July - New Fabrics are Here

2011-07-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

We received a shipment of Christmas fabrics yesterday. I know it is hard to think about Christmas quilts when it is 115 degrees in the shade, but now is the time to start working on Christmas quilts or other projects. Get them done, so come December you can sit back and relax. Tee hee, I know that is hard to do even if you get all your gifts before December. The holidays are just busy times. So crank up your air conditioner, get out your Christmas music and start sewing! What fun.

Here is what we have this year that is new. Plus we have other Christmas fabric left over from last year that is so cute, too.

This is a large panel. It is about one yard wide by width of fabric (WOF). It is really pretty.

This picture shows large poinsettias and bells. They are not all that big. If you look on our website, you will see they are quite small, which they should be for a border fabric.

Chrstmas packages. They go perfect with the Christmas Tree.

And of course a red to bring in the jolly.

This fabric is really stunning. It is a black/black background with beautiful red and white candy canes.

As dark as the background is for the candy canes above, this fabric is amazingly white background with beautiful two-toned greed holly leaves with red berries.

These fabrics are from Quilting Treasures and VIP Exclusive, which is part of Quilting Treasures. The top ones are called Christmas Eve and is designed by Liz Dillon. The two bottom ones are from Quilting Treasures and are called Very Fairy Christmas.

Now is the time to get started.

Keep on Quilting!

Renea's BOM July block

2011-07-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

Renea A is the first to turn in her block this month. Good job, Renea. I love this block. I could see a whole quilt with this block alone. Can you imagine a red white and blue one? Beautiful. Thanks, Renea. You are now entered into the drawing for the incentive kit for July.

Wildflower Rhapsody's BOM July Block

2011-07-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the Wildflower Rhapsody July block for our BOM. They were all mailed on Saturday, July 3rd. So watch your mailbox for yours. If you are not a member of this BOM, we still have two slots for people that might be interested. Just contact me at contact@BeehiveQuilts.com for information.

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM Incentive for July

2011-07-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

This is a reminder to all those who participate in the Beehive Quilts' BOM Wildflower Rhapsody to send in a picture of the July block, and you will be entered into a drawing to win:

Doggie Delight Window Panel Wallhanging Kit

Fabric designed by Loralie Designs, who always has a cute whimsical look about it.

Just see that we receive your picture no later than July 31, 2011 to be entered into this drawing. If you cannot send it via e-mail, you can snail-mail it to me at PO Box 484 Carmichael CA 95609-0484.

The kit includes the panel and the fabric above, plus a simple gray fabric for sashing. It makes into a cute wall hanging. I made one and once it is quilted I will post it to this blog. Hopefully I will get that done before the end of the July.

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM Incentive Winner for June

2011-07-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Betty Wallace. She is the winner of the incentive prize for sending in a picture of her June block, which was beautiful by the way.

We will be sending her fabric from Mary Engelbreit's line called Tea Decadence. Watch for it, Mary. See sample of what she will receive below:

Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody's BOM Pictures - More

2011-06-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Two more of you wonderful Wildflower Rhapsody quilt makers have submitted pictures of their finished blocks. They are now entered into the drawing to possibly win some fabric. Check out the previous blog post under Block of the Month tag to see the fabric being offered.

Good job:

Sue D's June block.

Renea A's June block

I must admit that I have not done my June block yet. I have been working on a Civil War era BOM that Elisa and I are taking through Beverly's Fabrics in Fair Oaks CA. I was not sure I wanted to make this quilt, but I think it is going to turn out to be beautiful. We are half way through with six blocks done.

We are using A Path to the Civil War, aurelia's Journey Quilt by Sarah Maxwell and Dolores Smith. I love this book as it has history along with the patterns. It even has paper templates in the back, though I am not using them. I just use the easy cutting directions in each block pattern. If you are interested in this book, you can find it on our website at http://www.beehivequilts.com/civilwarbook.

The following are the six blocks I have completed. I cannot wait to see what comes next. Since there are 44 different blocks to choose from, it is always exciting to get the new packet of material and the notice of which block we will be doing. So far they have all be fairly easy. Even the flying geese block.

Keep on Quilting!

I Sew, Therefore I Rip

2011-06-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Yes. I sew. I also rip--more often than I would like to think about. How about you?

My complaint about having to rip it out is not so much about the time I lost or the frustration of doing something wrong. It is more how do I get all those little pieces of thread out the fabric after I rip. If you do not get them out, they stick out like porcupine quills after you sew the new seam. Plus they get caught up in the new stitching. Then they are almost impossible to get out. Humph! What can be done.

Elisa finally shared what she uses. She buys those tape lint removers that you brush over you clothes when the cat got to close or you black skirt was next to your fluffy bathrobe in the closet. She just runs that over the left over stitches and out they come. I have been sewing for over 150 years (well, maybe not that long) and never thought of something so simple.

I would just like to know why I did not have such an item when I was in my high school tailoring class. My teacher insisted the project be perfect - inside and out. She was always marking me down for how the inside looked. It just was not finished to her liking. Her comment was always, "Peggy, your projects look marvelous on the outside. Why can't you make the inside look as good?" I always responded with something like no one is ever going to see the inside. She did not appreciate that answer.

My final came. We could make anything we wanted, as long as it was more tailored than just a simple shift or skirt. I chose to make a suit with jacket and skirt. I purchased a beautiful flue wide-wale corderoy. It was beautiful when completed, as usual. Now to get away from the teacher from taking points off because of inside finishing and to make the outfit just be a little classier, I lined both the jacket and the skirt. The lining was not just a hanging lining. I actually hand stitched it all down to cover all inside seams. It was nice.

When it came time to have it graded, she insisted to come to each person's home and see what they made. She had me model this suit before she looked at it up close. After modeling it and showing her my sewing space and discussing the semester I had been in this class and my sewing talents as perceived by her, I had to take off the suit and hand it to her to check it all out. She turned it inside out and saw that I had lined it. It was done beautifully, she was pleased. Then she asked, "Did you line this to keep me from seeing your finishing techniques?" "Yes," was my answer. She just laughed.

I got an A+ on the project and an A- for the semester. I was pleased.

I would love to hear some of your ways of correcting ripping threads and/or your interesting sewing stories. We all have them. My sister's story would have to be the time she sewed through her finger nail.

Keep on Quilting/Sewing

Wildflower Rhapsody's BOM pictures

2011-06-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Okay all of you who are doing Beehive Quilts Wildflower Rhapsody block of the month pictures are now coming in. I am proud of you who actually make your blocks in the month they are sent out. I am currently doing four BOMs, including Wildflower Rhapsody, and I seldom get them all done each month. One block each. Should not be that hard for me to keep them up. I guess it is just me.

We have received four pictures showing completed blocks. Remember there is fabric at stake here. In fact it is Mary Engelbreits’ Tea Decadence fabric that is the incentive for this month. The lucky winner of the drawing will receive one panel of the design, as well as 1/2 yard each of the tea cups and stripes fabrics. Just send me a picture of your completed block and you can be entered to win this, too.

Good job to Betty W., Joan G. and Garnalee H. for sending in their pictures already.

Betty W.

Garnalee H.

Gloria D

June G.

Good job, ladies. The pictures might look a little different. Fabric always has color differences depending upon how the picture was taken.

Send me your pictures and join the incentive drawing for this month. I received one via snail mail. It doesn't matter how I get it. Just so I receive it before the first day of July.

Keep on Quilting

Color crayons and hand embroidery

2011-06-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

I was first introduced to color crayons and quilts about two years ago. A customer in our shop, Trudy, was demostrating it at a quilt show. I was fascinated. It made sense as an easy way to make your hand embroidered design really pop out. Since then I have seen many quilts done in this matter. I have not tried it yet, but plan on it soon. I actually have in my stash a panel that looks like red embroidered flowers. It is kind of bland. When I bought it (several months ago), it was my plan to keep it simple and surround the blocks in beautiful red fabrics. Now I am going to buy myself some crayons and color in the fabrics. Then I will border the blocks in beautiful red fabrics!

I was told the best crayons or other coloring devices would be to use Crayola crayons. You know, the ones we grew up using. A simple 64 pack would be perfect, but of course that large box would be even better. There are "quilting" crayons/pens available, but they are much more expensive. Plus you do not get the variety you can get using actual crayons.

Be sure to heat set it after coloring. To keep your iron clean, be sure to put a pressing cloth on your ironing board. Mine is just a used towel. I would put a couple of newspaper pages or paper towels under that so the grease from the crayon cannot seep through. Put the design down on top of that with design facing up. Cover that will a couple of paper towels for absorption and another pressing cloth.

For hints on making your design really look great, go to http://www.quiltmaker.com/articles/breath_of_spring__coloring_tips for more information.

If anyone has done something like this before, please share your experiences. We would love to hear what you have done. Send me a picture, too. We would love to see your finished project.

Keep on Quilting

Make a pot holder today

2011-06-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Make this pot holder today. Just go to http://www.ctpubblog.com/2011/05/18/get-your-wheels-spinning-project/ to get the full directions.

Thank you CT Publishing for this link.

Keep on Quilting

Frixion Pens for Marking Fabric

2011-06-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

Have you heard or used one of these pens?

I have and they are my preference to mark my cotton fabrics. They are wonderful because all you do is mark your fabric, sew, iron and the marks are gone. Totally gone. You will not even see a trace of the pen! [See comments posted below. There are some fabrics that do not like these pens. Always test your fabric before using the pens.]

How do I get one, you ask. We sell them on our website now. Just got them in this morning. They are only $4.50 each and come in blue, black or red. You are going to want, no need, one of these and maybe one for your best quilting bud, too.

Go to http://www.beehivequilts.com/notions and scroll down to find them.

Keep on Quilting

New fabric arrived yesterday!

2011-06-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

Best part of having an on line store is getting new product. It is like Christmas whenever the UPS man comes. I was gone yesterday to my quilt group that meets monthly in Esparto CA - what a great group they are. I came back to my studio and there was a box waiting for me. This is fabric that I ordered last October. I knew there would be Halloween and fall fabric, but I could not tell you exactly what it was. Well here are pictures of what we received:

The above line is called Autumn Fest from Quilting Treasures. This is high quality cotton fabric and oh so pretty. Best of all there is a pattern that comes with it, which you can get for FREE! I love free. Go to http://www.quiltingtreasures.com/stuff/contentmgr/files/2e83abbd3456765adab389d17b839e50/download/autumn_festival___angela_anderson.pdf to get the pattern. Some fabrics for the pattern would have to be substituted, but we have the main ones.

We also received:

The above fabrics are also from Quilting Treasures. I you have read my blog for any length of time, I am sure you have picked up that I LOVE Halloween fabric and quilts. I just naturally turn towards them. Here is a cute collection of high quality cotton fabrics and a FREE pattern to boot. Go to http://www.quiltingtreasures.com/stuff/contentmgr/files/0b9fd24c7ebd4d1d0700afa010889d29/download/hairraising_halloween_420_web.pdf to get the pattern. We will be making kits for these fabrics, too, using this pattern.

If you wish to purchase any of these fabrics, just go to our website at http://www.beehivequilts.com/ and click the "Fabric" tab on the right side.

Let me know what you think of these.

Keep on Quilting - Halloween Quilts

Special orders available at BeehiveQuilts.com

2011-06-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

We just posted the following information on our website at http://www.beehivequilts.com/ to give you the opportunity to shop for that quilting item you need. Let us know if this works for you.

Looking for a particular pattern or book or need a quilting notion that is hard to find?
Beehive Quilts has a great idea. We have access to several distributors of quilting/sewing items and order from them every four to six weeks. If you have something special you want, look on our site first, as our website carries some notions and patterns. The link below carries most of the notions and patterns available. You have the ability to look through Checker's website and put items on your "wish list" on their site. Before you leave the site, print out the wish list or write down the item description and number and price. Fax us the list at 916-517-1420 or call us at 530-867-1154 or e-mail us at contact@BeehiveQuilts.com, and we will place it on our next order.

Checkers also carries fabric. If you find a fabric you need and want it special ordered, a pre-paid order of 6 yards would have to be paid before we place the order with Checkers.

Just let us know how we can serve you better.

http://wwww.checkerdist.com/

June Block for Wildflower Rhapsody BOM

2011-06-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the June BOM block:

Love it!

The new block has been cut and packaged and ready to mail. It should go out tomorrow, so stay on the look out for it. It is a real pretty block - the same as the other three.

Just as a teaser for what is yet to come for those of you that are purchasing the finishing kit (or will), here is the large center block.

The finishing kit will be sent to those that have ordered it towards the end of August. If you have not ordered it, you might want to to make sure you will have the material needed to do that center block and all the side blocks to make the full quilt.

Wildflower Rhapsody May Block Incentive Winner

2011-06-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations goes to Gloria Daniels. She won the drawing for the book by Sharyn Craig - Layer 'em Up. It will come with your block.

Those of you involved with the Beehive Quilt's BOM Wildflower Rhapsody remember there is a drawing each month for something special. To enter the drawing all you have to do is e-mail (or snail mail) us a copy of your block when you complete it. On the last day of the month, all the names will be put into a jar and the winner drawn. So join in and send us a picture of your June's completed block before the last day of June.

The prize this month will be: one panel of Mary Engelbreits’ Tea Decadence Block Fabric and ½ yard of the coordinating fabric Tea Decadence Tea Cup fabric and ½ yard of her Tea Decadence Striped fabric.

Very cute fabric.

Keep on Quilting

Oh, so cute.

2011-06-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

I do not normally post an item like this, but you just have to watch this video. There really is not anything more you can say other than "Oh, so cute."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw4KVoEVcr0

New fabric at Beehive Quilts

2011-05-23T22:11:00.000-07:00

We received a new shipment of fabric from Henry Glass Fabrics. You can purchase it at http://www.beehivequilts.com/.

Baby & Me Panel
Whimsical

Baby & Me coordinating fabric

Spooktacular II Border Fabric

Spooktacular II Pumpkins

Spooktacular II Blocks

Keep on Quilting!

Great quilt display idea

2011-05-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

The above was posted on QuiltingBoard.com

I thought it was a great idea. My dear husband built a quilt ladder for me, which I love. I would have never thought to turn it sideways and display in this manner.

On another note, you might wonder what http://www.quiltingboard.com/ is. If you have not already found this site, it is one to check out for sure. You can read what you want on it without signing in. Or you can sign in and get to read and respond. My favorite part is getting to see the portion where people submit pictures of their quilts. Gives me good ideas and makes me realize I have a lot to learn. People post good tutorials there, too. I high recommend it.

Keep on Quilting

ps., I Love You tags to personalize your quilt or other projects

2011-05-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

In the sample above you can see you just add this little tag that says "ps., I love you" into your binding of your quilt or onto that cute little outfit or other projects. Really perks the project up and sends such a sweet message to the recipient of the quilt or other project.

We have them on our website for only $3.98 per package of 12. Great buy. Find them at http://www.beehivequilts.com/psiloveyou.

Keep on Quilting

Great site for projects FREE

2011-05-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

Do you like free patterns? I do. I came across the following site http://3creativestudios.com/free.htm. It has so many different projects that you could be busy for the rest of your life just working off this site. It even has a free BOM at http://3creativestudios.com/bom.htm. Pretty cool one at that.

There are all sorts of projects you could make. There are patterns for notebook covers, quilts, placemats, all sort of items. I saved a few of them to make, too. Just remember they are copyrighted - for personal use only.

Keep on Quilting

Beverly's Fabrics

2011-05-18T10:56:00.000-07:00

Having been an owner of a local quilt store, I would always advise people to support them first. It is hard to make a go of it in this economy. Many owners never take a pay check out of it; all the money goes right back into the shop to make it better.

Now that said there is a big box store that I will shop at occasionally. That is Beverly's Fabrics. They just changed the Carmichael CA store from their normal craft and fabrics and house decor to just fabric. They carry most any fabric, but they have a huge section for us quilters. They carry brand names just like the LQS does and of the same quality. They also carry very "cheap" fabric for those that just cannot afford the higher quality. I personally stay away from that fabric, as I am not going to make a beautiful top that will not last very long.

The Carmichael store and Beverlys.com has a fabric of the day for $2.97! Wow. I personally have purchased some, as has Elisa. We have not been disappointed. The website posts the new day's list at 9 a.m. PDT. I try to log in no later than 10:30 a.m. because often the best of the three fabrics posted is sold out. They post what amount they have to sell. Take a look at it at http://www.beverlys.com/. Today's (Wednesday) is really neat. It has birds and nests and feathers. I have a friend that was asking if I had any bird fabric, which I do not. Maybe I will be nice and buy her some before it is gone.

Here is the fabric listed for today:

Keep on Quilting

Block 2 of Beehive Quilt's BOM Wildflower Rhapsody

2011-05-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

We received a picture of block 2 of the Wildflower Rhapsody BOM. It came from Garnalee in Idaho. She is now entered to win a copy of Sharyn Craig's Layer 'em Up book. It is a book that contains patterns of "quilts that are fast, fun and forgiving." If you are doing Beehive Quilts BOM and want a chance to possibly win that book, too. Send us a picture of the second block at contact@beehivequilts.com. Drawing will be held May 31st, so the picture must be received no later than 9 a.m. on that day.

Threading with silk ribbon

2011-05-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

Have you seen or worked embroidery done with ribbon instead of thread. It is beautiful. It adds a dimension to your work that is unique. In researching for something totally different, I came across a link that shows how to thread the needle with the silk thread to allow you to start sewing with it. It also tells you what size needle to use. This is a great technique. I thought you might like to see it.

Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3KhjpAO0jE&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

To see several examples of silk ribbon embroidery go to http://www.google.com/search?q=silk+ribbon+embroidery+ideas&hl=en&rlz=1T4GGIH_enUS274US275&prmd=ivns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=32rITc-uCYK4sQOE4qCVAw&ved=0CDwQsAQ&biw=1245&bih=633.

Pictures included on this post were talken from that site.

Keep on Quilting or Embroidering

Wildflower Rhapsody May Block Sent

2011-05-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Okay all you people that are working on Beehive Quilts' BOM, your May block has been mailed this morning. This block looks pretty easy. Hopefully I will get mine done before we have to cut next month's fabrics.

May's block sample

Keep on Quilting

Yay! Free fat quarters from Clothworks for Elisa

2011-05-03T13:58:00.000-07:00

My partner in business (and my daughter), Elisa, always says she never wins anything. When we go to quilt shows, we both purchase lots of tickets for their drawings. Neither one of us have ever won an opportunity quilt - yet. But I often win one of the door prizes.

She won a great collection of fat quarters today. Clothworks posts collections occasionally on their blog and ask for feedback on them. She wrote in that she loved all of them and mentioned which one she loved the most. They chose her from a total of only 14 entries to win. When this new line comes out, she will receive her fat quarters - all just for saying she loves their fabric.

It made me a believer. I am going to go to their blog to see their new fabrics every month, too.

Congratulations, Elisa.

If you want to see the lines that were shown, go to http://www.clothworkstextiles.com/blog/?p=2629. She stated her favorite was Country Gardens. That is the line of fat quarters she will get.

Makes it easier for her to Keep on Quilting!

Wildflower Rhapsody May Block

2011-04-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

The end of April is near. We at Beehive Quilts are preparing the May block of the Wildflower Rhapsody BOM. We expect it to ship either Monday or Tuesday, next week. So be looking for it by the end of next week in your mail box.

Did you all get a chance to finish last month's block? Mine is half done. Hope to finish it today.

We received pictures of two finished blocks for last month. Their pictures are posted on this blog. Would love to see more. The first picture sent in was Renea Aldrich's. She will receive 4 fat quarters just for sending me a picture of her finished block. Good job, Renea.

There will be a similar award this next month, too, so watch for what you could win. This month it will be different. I realize some of you will receive your block quicker depending upon the USPS delivery schedule. So what will be done from now on is that for everyone who sends me a picture your name will go into a drawing. The drawing will be held at the end of the month. The name that is drawn will receive whatever is chosen to be the gift for the month. You can send it to me electronically or through snail mail, as long as it is received before the last day of the month each month. That way everyone has a fair chance of winning the gift.

We had the suggestion of posting a picture of a finished block. Here is May's block:

May's block for Wildflower Rhapsody BOM
Thank you, Elisa, for completing this block.

In April's block package you received a half yard cut of the brown fabric and some general instructions. Those instructions stated you would be fussy cutting your brown fabric (#14) for several blocks. You can see Elisa cut her brown fabric so a flower would show up in each small block. That is the reason you received it all at one time. You get to decide where that fabric will be placed. Remember you will use it throughout the 12 blocks. Cut it wisely.

We have also developed a "BOM Block Insurance" package. We are selling a package of 1/8 yards cut into fat eighths, which is 9" x 22" approximately. There are 14 different cuts - one cut for each fabric used in the main 12 blocks. This package will give you the insurance that you will have enough fabric for those of us that cut and then read the instructions. You can find the package at http://www.beehivequilts.com/bomfat8ths.

As always, have fun with this block. Post your comments about the blocks here (see below). We love to read your comments.

Keep on Quilting

To wash or not to wash fabrics, that is the question

2011-04-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

To wash, or not to wash, that is the question. Whether it be nobler. . . .

I was recently asked if we should wash our fabrics before we start to make the quilt or not. While my shop was opened, that was probably the most discussed subject that came up. This was my answer:

"I never pre-wash my fabric. It changes it. I learned to be a seamstress with clothes before quilting. We always pre-washed the fabric, because you did not want the item to shrink after it was made.

I understand most people pre-wash quilt fabric to keep it from running and to take out the sizing, which used to be done with formaldehyde. Now it is not done with that chemical. Granted the fabric does have chemicals in it when it is new. Most people turn around and put the chemicals back in with sizing after washing. So you are adding a step that is not needed, plus it never looks the same. As far as running goes, most good quality quilt shop fabric does not run. There are several color fast sheets you can put in when you do wash the quilt that will capture any runs if there is a need.

When you wash small pieces like what you are getting in BOM cuts, you wind up with warped fabric and hard to make it fit the needed dimensions. I cannot tell you exactly what to do. I will tell you I do not pre-wash it. But again, I do not pre-wash any fabric for quilts.

So after answering the question, I decided to see what others have said on this subject. Here are a few links where you can read more about the subject:

http://www.straw.com/equilters/library/tips-hows/prewash_or_not1.html

http://www.stitchingcow.com/about/useful-resources-and-articles/quilting-tips/should-i-wash-my-quilting-fabric
The link above does make a good point. Many people wash their quilts after making them and before they are sent to that loved one. When washing after their are quilted, it makes the quilt look totally different - more used looking. Many people love that look and do not pre-wash, but post-wash instead. Again personal preference.

http://www.connectingthreads.com/tutorials/To_Prewash_or_Not_to_Prewash__D85.html
Connecting Threads makes the point that all must be aware of. That is to not share pre-washed and not pre-washed fabrics in the same quilt. It will make for some unusal looks after the quilt is washed again. So if you are going to pre-wash your fabrics, pre-wash all of them for the same quilt.

http://www.connectingthreads.com/tutorials/To_Prewash_or_Not_to_Prewash__D85.html
I like the above site. It says pretty much what the others say, but then it goes on to say how to check to see if it will run first. It also tells you how to pre-wash your fabric. It emphasizes what I said above, DO NOT USE BOTH IN ONE QUILT.

There are many other sites you can go to by typing in "wash quilt fabric vs not wash" into your search engine [I used Google]. I would be willing to guess they all say the same thing: It is a personal preference on the quilter's part.

My one suggestion would be not to wash BOM [block of the month] cuts. The cuts usually are just barely enough to make the block you need. The shrinkage would take it down to where you might not have enough fabric to make the desired size.

I hope this helps with the question on whether to wash or not to wash. No right answer to that question.

Keep on Quilting

Quilt Insurance for Wildflower Rhapsody BOM

2011-04-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

Quilt insurance! Yes, quilt insurance.

Make a mistake in cutting? Cat hide your piece? Wash the fabric and it shrank (not recommended, by the way on such small pieces of fabric)? Whatever the reason, here is a chance to be able to correct your mistakes. In this kit is an immediate fix. Each kit contains 1/8 yard of fabric cut into fat eighths. More than enough to fix several oops through out the BOM year. What you do not use could be incorporated into a pillowcase to go along with your quilt.

This purchase is available for the members of Beehive Quilts Wildflower Rhapsody BOM only.

Go to http://www.beehivequilts.com/bomfat8ths to order the kit.

Fat eighths of a yard is approximately 9" x 22" There are 14 different cuts in this kit!

Please do not order this if you are not a member of this BOM. If any are left over they will be offered to anyone after the BOM is over in April of 2012.

Oh for those that have not signed up yet, there is still room to accept someone into the BOM, if you are interested. Just sign up. You will receive all the back blocks with the first month after you sign up (with a $12.95 charge for each block already missed). Go to http://www.beehivequilts.com/wildflowerrhapsody to sign up for the BOM itself.

Keep on Quilting!

BOM April Block Winner

2011-04-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

We have received a lot of information back about this first block. What we have heard so far is that you love the fabric. It is beautiful. This block was a fairly easy block.

If you remember from our letter, we held a challenge to see who would finish this block first. The winner for this is Renea Aldrich. Here is what she said when she sent the picture:

"My package arrived late yesterday afternoon. I was hoping for another PNW rainy day and of course it happened. I have spent the day sewing. I love the fabrics. The chocolates and pinks are stunning."

Below is the picture of her block. She will receive four fat quarters. They will be mailed to her with her May block.

We also received a photo to share from Gloria Daniels. Below is what she said and a picture of her block:
"Here is my photo of finished Block 1. I'm sure you've received a bunch by now, but just wanted to join in the fun. Thanks again for running this BOM. This quilt is gorgeous and though my piecing and quilting aren't perfect, I thoroughly enjoy the process and results."

They are lovely.

I would love to post any other pictures and quotes you might have about these blocks. Feel free to e-mail them to me at contact@beehivequilts.com. Or post a comment below.

Auburn Quilt Show This Weekend

2011-04-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

AuburnCalifornia - this weekend! Plan on being there.

Foothill Quilters Guild Annual Quilt Show is this Saturday & Sunday, April 9 through 10, starting at 10 a.m. Go to the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn. Easy to find. Head towards downton off of I-80 and follow the signs. This is a great show.

I am going and will post pictures I take on Monday.

Information as posted on their website http://www.foothillquilters.org/:

APRIL 9 AND 10, 2011 FQG QUILT SHOW: "PATTERNS IN TIME" - quilting through the ages encompassing traditional as well as contemporary pieces is the theme for the 2011 Foothill Quilters' Guild Quilt Show, April 9 & 10, 2011. Gold Country Fairgrounds, 1273 High Street, Auburn, CA. Over 300 Quilts will be on display, a fashion show has been added, wonderful vendor booths, our Country Store, KIDS' CORNER, door prizes, café, raffle baskets, demonstrations, and much more.

OPPORTUNITY QUILT: The enthusiasm for ticket purchases has been wonderful. Remember, each dollar adds up to support activities for our guild and our sister guilds. This year's Opportunity Quilt: "PRINCE'S PLUME." Quilt Makers: Peggy Brewer, Lynn Cooper, Sandy Crane, Marylee Drake, Carol Hunt, Rita Kennedy, Laura Rucker, and Chere Yamasaki. Quilted by Dereck Lockwood. The drawing for this quilt will be at the 2011 Foothill Quilters' Guild Quilt Show on Sunday, April 10, 2011.

See you there!

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM Block Insurance

2011-04-08T14:50:00.000-07:00

Blocks have been mailed. Many of you have reported back how lovely the fabric is. We have one person that has finished their block. I will post who she is soon. I think she made her block the second she got it in the mail.

I personally belong to four different BOMs and just joined another one, plus this one. I often cut something wrong and there is seldom enough fabric from the initial pieces to re-cut. So we have decided that we are going to put together a Block Insurance package. It will be a Fat 1/8th Bundle of the first 13 fabrics used in the quilt. It will be offered for $17.95 on our website www.BeehiveQuilts.com. We will have those cut and bundled and ready to ship before the next block comes out. If you need one sooner, please let us know.

Keep on Quilting

Fabric on website

2011-04-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

We received in new fabric yesterday, so I sat right down and listed it on http://www.beehivequilts.com/. It is great fabric. Three bolts are Mary Engelbreit and oh so charming. Check it out. We set it up so you can order in 1/4, 1/2 and whole yard increments. Today I was able to list more and there is more to come.

Tea Decadence Block Fabric designed by Mary Engelbreit

Tea Decadence Striped Fabric designed by Mary Engelbreit

Tea Decadence Tea Cup Fabric from VIP Exclusive designed by Mary Engelbreit

Clouds (everyone needs them) from VIP Exclusive

Christmas Tradition Border from Quilting Treasures

The Aloha Quilt Fabric from Elm Creek Quilts and offered through Red Rooster Fabrics.

Yoshiko II - Purple by Blank Fabrics

Loomis Quilt and Fiber Show

2011-04-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the Loomis CA quilt and fiber show. Of course I was there to see the beautiful quilts. It was a good show, full of beautiful quilts and clothing. See pictures below:

Above is the featured artist at this show. Her name is Geraldine Nall. She is the "Queen of Miniatures." And a queen she is. I could not believe the beautiful but tiny quilts she had made. Some are featured below. The quilt behind her in the above pictures is her's, too.

This quilt is about 24" x w24" at the most. Each piece of fabric is very tiny little pieces of black and white fabrics. UNBELIEVEABLE

I wish I would have measured this. It is probably 12"to 18" tall. Darling little scarecrows.

Do not think this is a larger quilt block. It is less than 3" square. Can you believe the patience it must have taken Geraldine to sew this together?

It is really hard to fathom how small the piecing is in this finished quilt. Those rosettes are normal size, if that helps any.

Same with this heart quilt. The rosette is normal sized.

This is a normal sized quilt. I just love it.

Now for some of the other quilts that I saw there:

I am making this quilt in reds and pinks. Now I am excited to get it finished. It was supposed to be my Valentine's Day quilt, but I am still stitching the blocks together.

The guild had a challenge to make a patriotic quilt. This one was stunning. All of the challenge quilts will be donated to active service men. What an honor.

I took a lot of other pictures to show here. But I took them by turning my camera to fit the whole quilt in. Even though I have editing software, when I load them here they turn on their side again. So you only get to see the few above. I apologize because there were some stunning quilts I wanted to show you, including my standard Halloween pictures.

Wildflower Rhapsody Block of the Month

2011-04-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

For all of you who signed up for Beehive Quilts' BOM, the first block was mailed out today. Watch for it to be in your mail box soon.

For anyone who did not sign up, we still have space for 6 more people. I will keep it open until they fill up. So if you are still interested, sign up soon.

North Wind Quilters Guild Quilt Show in Fairfield CA

2011-03-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Elisa and I braved the rain and wind to go to Fairfield CA to see a quilt show we have never been to before. It was a hard decision, as Yuba City's quilt show was the same day, and we only had one day to see one.

It was a nice show. It was held in the Senior Center, and it used every room in that building. The quilts, as usual, were beautiful. See the pictures of some below. The people there were wonderful, and there were great vendors. Many of them were different than we were used to seeing, which is always fun. There was one vendor that had fat quarters for 25 cents a piece! Yes, 25 cents! So I bought a lot. I have been working on a couple of applique quilts that needed springtime, bright and cheery colors, which were in there. I think Elisa bought twice as many. You can never have too many fat quarters, especially if you are an appliquer.

Marjan Kluepfel was their guest artist. She, personally, was not there, but she had a whole room dedicated to her quilts. She is remarkable in what she does. I especially love how she did some of the 3-D work on her quilts. There is an undersea quilt that looks like she captured the seaweed and put it on her quilt. Great work.

Here are the pictures I took:

This quilt was unbelieveable! It is Mother Teresa done in fabric and just stunning in its scope.

The vendor that had the inexpensive fat quarters [thank you very much] had this quilt on display. I have the center flower panel at home and have been wondering what I was going to do with it. She gave me permission to take a picture of it, so I could remember what she did. I love it. Her business is Merrill-Lee Designs in Sacramento.

The next few are from the featured artist, Marjan Kluepfel. I love cityscapes. Her featured quilts were wall quilts and this one was one of the smaller ones. It really caught my attention, though.

I loved this one for its size and use of color. She had a pattern and hand dyed fabric for sale. Had I not already bought a lot of fabric from the vendors, I probably would have bought some of this and tried this one. The size was narrow but quite long.
It is probably 4+ feet long.

When I mentioned the featured artist above, I stated there was one with 3-D seaweed and plants on it that was stunning. This is it.
A photograph does not do it justice.

Love Christmas quilts. I especially loved this one with all its different blocks depicting Christmas.
Good job.

Here is another Christmas quilt that is so beautiful.
It looks fairly easy to make, too.

One reason I love going to quilt shows is to get ideas for more quilts. Not that I do not have plenty already picked out to do.
The above one is going on my list.

Being March, there were not too many Halloween quilts. This one was extremely cute, and I figured it would be my token Halloween quilt that I always post.

Then I saw this quilt. This is not necessarily Halloween - just fall. It is so cute. I especially like how they used different backgrounds on each block and quilted it with stitching running through the blocks.

This is a version of the Mexican Star pattern.
In our store a teacher taught this class. It was really popular. Recently I had a customer call to see if I still had a pattern to sell her. I did not, but I ordered them. So if you are interested in doing a quilt like this check out the pattern at http://www.beehivequilts.com/mexicanstars, if you are interested.

This particular quilt took best in show. If you saw it personally you would know why.

This is an unique applique that I loved. See the next picture for more explanation as to why.

It might be hard to tell from the picture. The flowers were done by taking two circles of fabric and sewing them together. The back side was sewn to the background and the front was gathered and pulled tight to form the front of the flower. It really made each block "blossom" out.

Love the quilt shows.

National Quilting Day

2011-03-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

Quilters have their own day. What a wonderful situation. We have an excuse to everyone around us that March 19th is our official day to do nothing except sit down and quilt! The 19th is this coming Saturday!

I already know what I am going to do. There are two quilt shows in our area. I am going to go see those. One is in Fairfield CA. It is North Wind Quilters Guild Cover Story XIV Quilt Show. It runs Saturday and Sunda from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the fairfield senior center. For more information go to http://www.northwindquiltersguild.com/.

The second one is the Valley Quilt Guild's Bloomin' Fun! It is their 28th annual quilt show. It also is March 19th and 20th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. It is heald at Yuba-Sutter Fairgrounds in Yuba City CA. For more information go to http://www.valleyquiltguild.com/.

What could be more fun to celebrate National Quilting Day than to go see beautiful quilts and shop the vendor displays.

Have a great day.

Keep on quilting!

Patterns on website

2011-02-27T16:16:00.000-08:00

I have recently posted several patterns that I especially like and have for sale on my website. These are patterns that I sold in our store and at quilt shows. I thought you might like to see them, too. You can find them at http://www.beehivequilts.com/patterns.

We have more to post even yet, so check back again soon. My granddaughter, Lorena, will be taking pictures of all my fabric I have for sale, too. Hopefully we will be getting them posted to the website within the next two weeks. I have some beautiful fabrics and will be getting a new shipment in March.

Keep on Quilting!

Chocolate Never Faileth

2011-02-23T08:41:00.000-08:00

If you've got melted chocolate all over your hands, you're eating it too slowly.

Wildflower Rhapsody BOM extended!

2011-02-14T11:54:00.000-08:00

The beautiful Block of the Month (BOM) that http://www.beehivequilts.com/ is doing has been extended. This morning we doubled our order, so we could accommodate more quilters. The response to this BOM has been terrific.

If you have not signed up yet, the new spaces are being filled quickly. All you have to do now is pay a non-refundable $25 sign up fee. We will be shipping the new block in April and will charge your credit card for the $12.95 per month fee at the time we ship.

Go to http://www.beehivequilts.com/ now to sign up. It is quick and easy to do.

Wildflower Rhapsody by Timeless Treasures BOM

Folsom 2011 Quilt Show

2011-02-11T19:51:00.000-08:00

Elisa and I went to the Folsom Quilt show today. Oh my gosh. Do not ever go at 10 a.m. on the first day of this show. The line was out the door and down and around the front of the building. Thank goodness it was sunny and warm there.

The show was good. Below are pictures. Some might not be straight on. That is because of the amount of people there. It is really hard to take a good picture of a large quilt when you have to back up across the walkway and fifteen people come and stand before you to look at the same quilt. Hopefully you can tell how beautiful they are.

The vendors are pretty much the same as most quilt stores. Nothing real made me want to buy what was there, except 2 charm packs of "manly" flannel that are wonderful and just made to be used in a quilt for a guy that wants it without flowers. Looking forward to putting that all together.

After going to the guild, we went to Wild Bill's Philly Sandwiches. Oh my goodness. Was that a great sandwich! I have been thinking about it all evening, wishing I could have another. On our way there, Elisa got a call from the guild. She had won one of their boutique prizes. It was a basket of 30's fabrics, plus an Amish puzzle and a quilting book. Pretty nice. She was happy. She seldom wins anything.

So after lunch back we went. Then we went to Meissner's in Folsom. I had never been to that shop. It was wonderful. It had a lot of great fabric, especially their flannels. Loved them.

Good way to spend a day.

This quilt is a self portrait of the quilter. It was very large. Because of someone standing in front of it, I missed about a foot of it on the left side. It was really gorgeous.

All turkeys - everywhere!

Stuff Who???

Eat Beef. Sorry I could not get it to go the right way. Just turn your head.

After seeing many bargello quilts, I swore I would never do one. They make me sick to look at. But this one changed my mind. I love this one. Lots of motion but not the kind to give you motion sickness.

Amazing quilt.

Nice beautiful colors. Just and all around beautiful quilt.

And of course my favorite part, a beautiful Halloween quilt.

Wildflower Rhapsody Block of the Month

2011-01-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Join now.

www.BeehiveQuilts.com is doing a new block of the month (BOM). There is limited space, so sign up soon.

Why are men are happier (not negative, just funny)

2011-01-24T21:21:00.000-08:00

I found the following on Quilting Board website and thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope you do, too.

Men Are Just Happier People --
Your last name stays put.

The garage is all yours.

Wedding plans take care of themselves.

Chocolate is just another snack.

You can be President.

You can never be pregnant.

You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park.

You can wear NO shirt to a water park.

Car mechanics tell you the truth.

The world is your urinal.

You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.

You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.

Same work, more pay.

Wrinkles add character.

Wedding dress $5000. Tux rental-$100.

People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them.

New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.

One mood all the time.

Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.

You know stuff about tanks.

A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.

You can open all your own jars.

You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.

If someone forgets to invite you,

He or she can still be your friend.

Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack.

Three pairs of shoes are more than enough..

You almost never have strap problems in public.

You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes..

Everything on your face stays its original color.

The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.

You only have to shave your face and neck.

You can play with toys all your life.

One wallet and one pair of shoes -- one color for all seasons.

You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.

You can 'do' your nails with a pocket knife.

You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.

You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives

On December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier.

New Patterns and Quilt Books listed on website

2011-01-20T10:39:00.000-08:00

Check out some of the new patterns (including Lori Holt's) and quilt books that have been added to our website at http://www.beehivequilts.com/category/384742 . Good pricing - lower than the suggested retail pricing. Here are just a few:

[To go directly to the website to order each item, put curson over picture and click the mouse.]

Love those Art to Heart patterns. Easy to make, too.

It is never too early to start working on
your Christmas designs.

Lori Holt's Gardening pattern. Great for spring time.

Another Lori Holt.

Snow Day. . . Sew Day.
Easy and fun applique pattern.Snowday Quilt Pattern

Modesto Quilt Show

2011-01-15T21:09:00.000-08:00

Today Elisa and I went to the Heart of the Valley Quilts and Textile Show hosted by the Country Crossroads Quilters in Modesto. It is going on tomorrow, Sunday January 16th also. For more information go to: http://www.countrycrossroadsquilters.com/.

It was a great show in a great location. We saw a lot of beautiful quilts, of which I took just a few pictures shown below. It made me want to come home and start sewing. I have so many quilt projects I want to finish and quilt ideas that I want to do. Going to quilt shows helps me get re-energized.

I also bought the cutest quilt kit and, I must say, it was very well priced (which I love the most). It is a darling valentine quilt. Its center point is a very cute panel. The color is not pink, which is a surprise for a valentine quilt. It is more of a peach color.

Now I have already started a pink and red quilt that is quite large and might not get done by this year's February 14th. The kit will allow me to have a new quilt for Valentine's Day.

I bought it from the booth from Manteca called Ladybug's Quilts. Elisa also purchased a panel from them. We were so impressed by their booth that we decided to stop by their store on the way home. Really a nice store. Terrific bright colored fabrics that I fell in love with. I did not buy any, but I wanted to. I did purchase the same panel Elisa bought. It is two teddy bears. One with a hoola hoop and the other on an old fashioned scooter. She is going to make a quilt. I have a UFO made out of teddy bear fabric that needed something to jazz it up. I am going to cut the bear with the scooter and applique it onto my quilt. I think it will add a lot to my UFO, which hopefully will be a finished quilt before too long.

Ladybug's Quilts also had a great selection of Civil War prints and flannels. Elisa and I are doing a Civil War BOM through Beverly's Fabrics in Fair Oaks. Depending on their finishing package, choices, we may have to travel back to Manteca to get something beautiful from their shop. Who knows. Plus those flannels are some of the prettiest I have seen. Good selection. If you are down that way, take the time to stop by and take a look at their choices. Easy on and off the freeway (highway 99). More information go to http://www.ladybugsquilts.com/.

Now for the pictures of the quilt show:

One block of a large Hawaiian quilt.

Sunbonnet Sue Calendar quilt

Stuning Christmas Applique Quilt

This was also a textile show. I loved this dress. I would love
to know why it was designed as it was, but the work that was done on it was fantastic.

Loved this smaller wall hanging. It is like a girls doll house. Very cute.
The pictures have real pictures in them. The steps outside the front door
have flowers on them. The bunk beds on the top floor have quilts on them.
Really unique and very beautiful.

Center block of a Sunbonnet Sue quilt. These three are at a quilt show
looking at a quilt with very small pieces sewn together.

Featured artist Joyce Compton did this skyscape. The quilting was
unbelievable in this smaller quilt. With it looking hazy,
it made it look like the city across the bay. Love it. This all came from a picture.

And for those that know me, Halloween quilts always get my attention.
Loved this one, too.

Hide your quilt stash

2011-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

Is your fabric stash growing? Do you need assistance in finding unique hiding places? Watch the following:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKiiOH5oJfs&feature=autoplay&list=MLGxdCwVVULXfDuMSnm13HT_mWOEL8FpWA&index=1&playnext=2

Quilt Labels - FREE - Part II

2011-01-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

I found another site that offers free quilt labels:

http://www.quilterscache.com/Q/QuiltLabels.html

Don't you love the Internet?

Quilt Labels - FREE

2011-01-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

Quilt labels are so important. Many of us have antique quilts that were handed down through the family or perhaps obtained elsewhere and have no history of who made it or when. Put a label on every quilt you make, so 50 years or more people will know the when and who of your heirloom.

Now you can get really creative with your labels. I have seen where people have printed a picture on fabric, or taken part of the fabric used on the top, or embroidered one, or had one specially designed one. Most of us just write the information on muslin and sew it on, which is fine. It is better to have something there, than nothing at all.

But if you want to make it special without a lot of work, have I got a website for you. All you have to do is print this out on printable fabric, write your information on it and you have a darling quilt label.

Go to http://quiltwithus.connectingthreads.com/page/quilt-labels to see what I am talking about. See samples below. But go to the above website and click on the one you want to print out.

Don't you love them? There are more to choose from.

Milk Men - Too Cute

2011-01-08T17:42:00.000-08:00

I found the following on a great site: http://www.bakerella.com/:

You just need:

small milk glasses (these from Target work great)
powdered doughnut holes
straws
milk, of course

To decorate, Julie used chocolate jimmies to press into the doughnuts for the eyes and mouth. The noses are orange coated sunflower seeds pressed into the dougnut and attached with a tiny bit of frosting.

She also coordinated their felt scarves with the same color striped straws. And to finish them off, she glued a few small buttons right on the glass.

Adorable!

The website has several other wonderful recipes. Check them out at above link.

www.QuiltingBoard.com - Great Site

2011-01-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

So a friend, Janet Wheaton, told me about the quilting board. I had never heard of it before, so I checked it out. It is a great site for all quilters. They have so many different things you can get involved in. There is a chat room where you can talk live to others. Love it. You can also join different groups that do many projects. I am joining one where you are to make a set of "funky" chickens and send it off before the date set in March. Since I have a great pattern featured on my website for a very cute chicken quilt, I thought I would make those blocks up. Send them off and in return I will get six funky chicken blocks back. Sounds like a good deal all

around. [You can find the pattern at http://www.beehivequilts.com/chickspattern.]

I have also joined a weight loss project. No sewing for this project. Just had to weigh myself on January 1. On February 1, I weigh myself again and send a private message to the organizer. Whoever loses the most weight that month gets a fat quarter from everyone participating. Best of all there are daily posts of different ideas that can help us on our way and we can post ideas we have or our goals or anything that is appropriate to the project. I figured it might be good if losing weight is put in front of me daily. Who knows, maybe I will actually take off some pounds. Good project to be involved in.

You can post pictures of quilts or other sewing projects you have finished or are working on. People ooh and aah over them. Also you can ask for assistance in your project and get lots of suggestions.

People from all over the world are involved in this website. You get great ideas and help. Check it out at http://www.quiltingboard.com/ today.

Remembering Grandma

2010-12-20T14:03:00.000-08:00

The History of 'APRONS'

I don't think our kids know what an apron is.

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few. It was also because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons used less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.

This could my own Grandma in her apron.

It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.

From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.

And when the weather was cold Grandma wrapped it around her arms.

Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.

From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.

In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.

Remember when Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.

People would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron.

I don't think anyone ever caught anything from an apron - but love...

Notice it says "Medium" is size 14-16!

Dressing a turkey

2010-11-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

Shopping song

2010-11-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

Get up early Friday after Thanksgiving and sing this song as out the door you go. The tune is to the traditional Thanksgiving song of Over the River and Through the Woods.

Over the river and through the woods
To local quilt shops we go.
The car knows the way to carry us all
Through black Friday crowds, oh no!

We’ll shop all day for that special buy
And bring home a lot more stash
We love to quilt and love to shop
Even though it gives our spouse a rash.

Over the river and through the crowds
We must find what is just right
We’ll shop this day and sew tomorrow
And have a great delight.

Have a great Holiday!

Baobab Blanket Kit "Follow the Stitch"

2010-11-23T10:53:00.000-08:00

Follow the Stitch

Baobab Blanket Kit

New on our website is a set of very cute kits. They come in multiple choices for color. The top is a single panel with designs that look like they have been stitched on. You can stitch along those same lines or do your own quilting or even tie this quilt. Included is the backing and a satin binding in the same color as the quilt top. Makes into a darling quilt for a baby or toddler.

The fabric is all a very soft flannel. The kits come from RJR Fabrics, so you know it is great fabric. The design in from 2 mod moms. They did well.

See the options at http://www.beehivequilts.com/followthestitchkit

Keep on quilting.

Up coming shows to go see

2010-11-23T10:08:00.000-08:00

In January there is Heart of the Valley Quilt & Textile Show in Modesto. It will be held at the Modesto Centre Plaza at 10th & K Streets in Modesto. The start time is 10 a.m. This is for all quilters and textile and fiber art crafters. Fun, raffles and all. For more information, go to www.countrycrossroadsquilters.com.

The next weekend, January 20 to 23rd is Road to California Quilt Show in Ontario. Gil and I went last year. It is great fun. Just wear good walking shoes and plan on spending a lot of time there. Be sure to take your patience with you, as there are lines and groups of people to get through or around. There is so much to see! For more information, go to http://www.road2ca.com/.

Love those shows.

Honey and Cinnamon

2010-11-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Okay, so this has nothing to do with quilting, but I think it is interesting information. I am going to try it. I figure it cannot hurt.

Cinnamon and Honey

Honey is the only food on the planet that will not spoil or rot. It will do what some call turning to sugar. In reality honey is always honey.. However, when left in a cool dark place for a long time it will do what I rather call "crystallizing". When this happens I loosen the lid, boil some water, and sit the honey container in the hot water, turn off the heat and let it liquefy. It is then as good as it ever was. Never boil honey or put it in a microwave. To do so will kill the enzymes in the honey.

Cinnamon and Honey

Bet the drug companies won't like this one getting around. Facts on Honey and Cinnamon: It is found that a mixture of honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients. Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada , in its issue dated 17 January,1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES:
Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also, those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada , various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and veins.

ARTHRITIS:
Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated, practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:
Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

CHOLESTEROL:
Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS:
Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

UPSET STOMACH:
Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS:
According to the studies done in India and Japan , it is revealed that if Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION:
Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA:
A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ' Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu..

LONGEVITY:
Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increase and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

PIMPLES:
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS:
Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:
Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER:
Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

FATIGUE:
Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

BAD BREATH:
People of South America , first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS:
Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing. Remember when we were kids? We had toast with real butter and cinnamon sprinkled on it!

River City Quilt Guild Sacramento

2010-11-19T20:57:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a fun day I have had today. Elisa and I went to River City Guild's annual quilt show. It is always fantastic featuring beautiful quilts, wonderful vendors, and a great country store. It is a quilt show that you have to plan to spend hours in, not just one to run in and run out of. Take your time and see it as it is. Wonderful!

There I was seeing wonderful quilts and realized I had forgotten a camera. Elisa had her phone camera and took the following pictures. Thanks, Elisa.

This took a second place. I thought it was the most beautiful. Love it.

This is Laurel Anderson's quilt. She is one of my favorite designers. Beautiful quilt. I guess I am not the only one that thinks she does wonderful work, but she took best of show with this quilt. Good job, Laurel.

El dia de los muertos. I do not normally like skeletons, but this one is fantastic. I love the use of color. Stunning.

This is the quilt ladder Gil made to donate to the raffle part of the show from Beehive Quilts.

This one was stunning, too. It took first place in its category AND best use of color. A lot of work went into this quilt.

Plus a great part was the show's raffle choices. Between Elisa and I we purchased 50 tickets. I thought we might have a chance to win something! Well I got a call an hour ago, and I had won a kit to make a popsicle quilt. Love it!

Best of all, we saw a lot of the people we met while our store in Woodland was open. It was wonderful to say hello to them all again. Miss you all.

Peggy

Brownsville Quilt Guild Show

2010-11-09T10:56:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Gil, Elisa and I loaded up our Expedition. Gil and I headed up to Brownsville CA. Brownsville is a quaint little community in Northern California. It has a bakery on one of the main corners of the community that I was told is the best place around. The only problem was it was closed by the time we got there and is closed every Saturday and Sunday, which were the days we were there. One day we will take a drive and go have breakfast at the bakery in Brownsville.

Saturday and Sunday was spent as a vendor at the quilt show. What fun it was. And a lot of people came through. I loved it. Who knew such a small community could hold such a successful quilt show? If you are around Northern California in 2011, be sure to come to the Brownsville quilt show on November 5-6, 2011. You will love it. Plus we will be there as a vendor.

I like to take pictures of some of the quilts at the different shows I go to. Here are some from Brownsville:

I love unique quilts. Cute quilt. This was one of my favorites at the show. Of course it helped that it was right above my booth and I looked at it several times a day. The colors were gentle. The design was cute. It was well put together. Just darling.

The Cobbler Guy and his wife were there with the most beautiful and yummy individual cobblers, along with cookies and breads. The absolute best was the Elvis bread. You have find him to find out what the Elvis bread is. We bought a loaf and I wanted to eat the whole loaf myself - but I didn't. They always are at this quilt show, plus they are at Grass Valley and Nevada City events. Search them out.

Lovely antique crazy quilt. This was made out of velvet. It was roped off so we could not touch it. Darn!

Quilts designed like this are hard to take pictures of, as the design tends to run together. This was a striking quilt. Beautiful colors and very nicely done.

I have always loved the puffed blocks. They were popular many years ago. They are back. Makes you want to take this quilt down and wrap yourself up in it.

Beautiful applique quilt.

Halloween wall quilt

2010-10-04T11:59:00.000-07:00

So since our move into a new home, I have had fun going through boxes from my sewing room. I am finding things that I forgot I even owned. I came across a couple of panels that I purchased from Joann's years ago. One is a scarecrow that is so cute. I thought what can I do with him? So I made a quilt wall hanging.

I ironed fusible web on his back then ironed him onto the plaid back ground fabric. I think it was a good choice. Then I sewed all around him with a decorative stitch with my sewing machine. I normally would have waited until I was ready to quilt, but the fusible was old and did not stick very well.

Next I added the two borders. On top of them I fused the pumpkins and other items on. They came from the same panel and worked really well to highlight the quilt a little.

I made a major mistake of using a very old, very fluffy bag of batting when I quilted it. So it is way puffier than I would ever want, but I left it anyway. Note to others: do not use that old, fluffy batt you have have hanging around. Donate it or throw it away. I actually took the rest and used to wrap some stuff that I was mailing out for protection. Works really well for a buffer.

I like the quilt a lot and I had a long, narrow wall over a stair case that it fits beautifully.

Table Runners - Chocolate and Bagels

2010-09-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

Tables runners anyone? They seem to be making a big splash. Using some of the high quality, delightful fabrics that are available at quilts stores, it is easy to make whimsical, charming, seasonal, or just plain utilitarian table runners. Here are a few I made recently [the chocolate and bagels are available on line at http://www.beehivequilts.com/]:

Bagels with machine applique

Bagels on black

Chocolate all around

Chocolate all through

Center table mat and 4 placemats. Fall themed.

Sacramento Zoo - No quilts there

2010-09-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

When our quilt store was open, Mondays were are play days. Well actually Mondays were often spent doing paperwork at the shop. Anyway today became a play day. No sewing. No quilting. Just playing.

My daughter, her daughter and I went to the Sacramento Zoo. We saw so many beautiful animals. Flamingos. Lions and tigers, but no bears. Gila monsters, snakes and poison frogs. Monkeys, birds - big and little, giraffes, emus and even an ostrich.

So remember to take a day and do something fun. Then get back to quilting.

Red Tail Hawk

Poison Tree Frog - beautiful

Gorgeous flamingos

Posing giraffe

Tiger seemed to love my granddaughter. Something about the weakest of the herd.

Feeding the giraffe. Long tongue!

Tracy Brookshier at Rivercity Quilt Guild

2010-09-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Third Tuesday of every month is Sacramento's River City Quilt Guild general meeting. I am a member and love to go. This is a big quilt guild. I do not know the exact number of members, but I know it is over 200. Great guild and they will be having a great quilt show in November. Go to http://rivercityquilters.org/show/index.html to learn more.

Anyway last night they had as their guest speaker Tracy Brookshier. She is a wonderful quilt designer and a great speaker. She was invited to have one of her quilts shown at a quilt show in Japan. She brought back slides of some of the wonderful quilts shown there and some of the sites of where she was. I tried to find a website that showed the festival after the fact. All I found was the original before website http://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/quilt/.

Then she showed just a smidgen of her quilts that she has made. They are really fantastic. She was teaching a class today, but I failed to sign up for it. She will be teaching her Japanese Jigsaw pattern. It looks complicated. She said it is not. I have heard others say it really is not. You do have to purchase a special template to make it, though.

If you want to learn more about Tracy, to go: http://traceybrookshier.com/ I was quite impressed to see she was the creator of the Bento Box pattern. That class was taught at our store when it was open. Everyone who took the class loved it. Many have made several of the pattern. Good job, Tracy. Loved your presentation, too.

Keep on quilting.

Great website for quilt guild shows

2010-09-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

I just came across a great website to tell you where and when quilt shows are. Remember it is only as good as the data submitted. Attention to all you guild members that want your quilt show advertised, go to this site, too. Plus much more that I have not even gone into. It has every month listed at the top, so all you have to do is click and search. There are postings for all over the United States - not just California.

The site is http://www.quiltguilds.com/september.htm

Happy Quilting

Georgetown CA Quilt Show 2010

2010-09-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

As posted earlier, there was a quilt show today in Georgetown. It was a very winding and narrow road that took up there, but it was well worth the drive. The show was in a small but beautiful park - thank goodness for the good weather. It was only $5 to enter the show, but all funds were to go to the local fire department. A very good cause.

No vendors were there. Just quilts, hot dog sales and the guild boutique. Here are pictures of some of the quilts:

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My favorite - pineapple design. Stunning quilt.

The wind made picture taking difficult

Beautiful winter quilt.

I will make this quilt design someday.
I will. I will. I will.

This was one of many honored quilts from previous shows.

Remember. It was for the fire department.

Quilt show in Georgetown this weekend

2010-09-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

September 18, 2010: Georgetown Outdoor Quilt Show

Sponsored by the Needle Nellies of Georgetown. Event to be held at Georgetown Park, Harkness & South Streets, Georgetown, CA. Hours: Sat, 10-4pm

Want to go to the gold country for a nice drive today AND a quilt show? Go to Auburn. Then:
Take exit #119C/ELM AVE - go 0.2 mile
Turn Left on ELM AVE - go 0.1 mile
Turn Left on HIGH ST(CA-193)
Continue to follow CA-193 - go 2.4 miles
Turn Right on COLOMA RD(CA-49) - go 3.6 miles
Turn Left on CA-193 - go 12. miles
Arrive at the center of 95634 Georgetown

Love those quilt shows. It is only on today, so get with it.

New Quilt Store - Sew Fun

2010-09-17T16:41:00.000-07:00

The following is a review about a new shop in Folsom. They are so new they do not have their website up and running yet. But it is well worth the drive to see it.

There's a new Shop In Town

Review! by Margaret Ann Ward

The brand new quilt shop, Sew Fun, located at 150 Natomas Station Blvd, suite #200, is going to shape up to be quite the shop. Although their doors have been opened less than a week now they have been bombarded with lots of new clients. Shop owners,Traci and Dayna started the shop out of love and devotion to the art of quilting. Friends first-quiters next- and on to shop owners. Plans are being made for a wonderful Grand Opening Event near the end of September. They intend to fill the shop with what we want most. Of course- we all want fabric- but what kind? So far they are kind of trendy, modern, lively, Batiky, and have plans for generosity and ampleness. Need more than fabric? How about Viking Sewing machines!? They are an authorized new dealer for them and have eight in the shop so far, and when you buy a machine from them, you will get a five year maintenance package with it. The shop may be a bit tricky to find; especially if you get Natomas Street and Natomas Station Blvd mixed up. To get there from us Citrus Heights, head East on Madison towards Folsom, or East on Greenback and then East on Madison. When you get down the hill, you come to Folsom blvd. Go right, cross over the new bridge, drive past Blue Ravine road, taking the next left at Natomas Station Blvd and make an immediate left into the small shopping center. The railroad tracks will always be on your left heading to the shop. Park, look, shop, talk, and have fun. [If you are coming from Highway 50, just take Folsom and head towards the factory stores. Pass by the street that takes you into the stores and go to Natomas Station Blvd. I think it is the next road. Turn right and immediate left. You are there.]

Gold Bug Quilters Quilt Show

2010-09-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Gold Bug Quilters Quilt Show was held in Cameron Park CA starting today and will run through Sunday. Elisa and I drove up to see what there was to see. There were some beautiful quilts displayed there! I am including some pictures of the ones I liked the best.

These two pictures are one of four quilts a lady put together honoring soldiers that have fallen in Iraq. We were amazed at how beautifully she free-handed the names on her machine. I took a picture of what the quilt looked like and one upclose of some of the names.

The one below is my favorite. It was done in shades of brown and quilted with a gold metalic thread that really added to the quilt.

The one above I liked because of the colors used. This picture does not do it justice. The greens are mostly very vibrant green. Loved it.

There were so many to see, plus you get to vote on your favorites in each category. That was fun, too.

They had a very nice Country Store, but I felt many of the prices were a little high. I kind of like getting a bargain when I go to the Country Store. I still wound up buying a few patterns from there. I think my motto is "I cannot turn down a good pattern." I have so many that if I sewed constantly from now until forever, I would never get them all done. Plus I would have to do a lot of shopping of fabric to complete them all.

The vendors are always fun to see what is new. I did not purchase a lot, but there was some fabric I could not resist. It was used in a quilt that I have a pattern for, so I had to have it, too.

One of the vendors was demonstrating a pen they were selling. It is marvelous. They said it was great for marking your fabric for embroidery and/or quilting lines. Elisa and I both bought one. The best part of this pen was when you use it, if you make a mistake, you just apply heat to it and it disappears. She said you had to be careful because if it got too cold, it would set it. But it would not rub off while you worked on your design. She had black, yellow, pink, red, purple and orange. It is a Pilot pen named Frixion. The cost at $3.98 is nominal for the great uses this gives you.

So my advise is if you live in or around the Sacramento area, take the drive up highway 50 to Cameron Park. Take the first exit, turn left, go to next light and turn left again. Then just follow the signs. Easy to find. Lots of parking. A show worth seeing.

Binding Calculator

2010-09-09T19:36:00.000-07:00

Do you have problems figuring how much materials to buy/cut for your binding? Have I got a site for you. Go to http://www.quiltpox.com/calculators.html Type in width, length of quilt and how wide your finished binding is and press calculate. Lo and behold there is the amount of material you need. I always cut too much fabric, because I have cut too little for so long that I love this site to help me cut just the right amount.

That said, I must say I just found the site. But I compared it against a chart I have that Victoriana Quilt Designs has, and it seems to be close to the same except for one size. This link said for 102"x 90 says to purchase 3/4 yard. The hard copy chart I have said 1/2 yard. If I would have purchased that amount only and got home with not enough, I would have been sad. But the others seem to be pretty accurate.

Have fun quilting.

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