Other shopping sources
We are enjoying this cool spell - what about you? The grass isn't growing as fast as during a typical spring which means less mowing time and more sewing time. A few dreary, rainy days would make the sewing experience complete.
Kay has been very busy sewing with Lynette Anderson's new holiday lines. Here's an updated version of Lynette's "Santa's Blessing" pattern using her Christmas Fun line. We really like this quilt with its assortment of 3D ornaments. The ornaments are actually not appliqued to the quilt but are hanging which gives an added dimension to an already cute quilt. We will have kits available as soon as the fabric arrives.
You know us and our love of books. One of our favorite primitive designers, Jo Ann Mullaly, has a new book that we will be picking up next week at quilt market. It's called "Folk Branches". We can see the cover quilt in cotton, wool or a mixture of both. If you'd like us to reserve a copy for you, please let us know.
Now to the shopping sources. We've said it before and will say it again - we can't carry every notion, book, or pattern (what quilt shop can?!) We are very selective with our purchases and try to anticipate what you will like. Sometimes we succeed and sometimes we miss the mark. So, how about if you help us? You can go to the same sources we visit and see the same items we see. The only difference is that you can't buy from the source so make your list, send it to us, and we'll buy for you. How easy is that!
Our favorite shopping source is Moda. Go to http://www.unitednotions.com and click on "Notions" and then "Browse our Products". On the next page click on "United Notions Browse by Category". Now choose your category and shop as long as you want. You can also shop fabric by clicking the "Fabrics" tab and shop for home items (things like dish towels and table cloths) by clicking the "Moda Home" tab.
We also enjoy shopping at Checkers. http://www.checkerdist.com Their website is a bit more obvious as far as how to navigate. Merely click on the tab containing the products you're interested in, and wha-la, you are shopping. They offer the option of shopping for books and patterns by designer name, publisher, or category.
We recently have started shopping with Brewer Supplies. http://brewersewing.com Their website is pretty self explanatory with an option to shop by category. They seem to carry more historical type books than Moda or Checkers.
Speaking of shopping, next week we will be doing some major drooling in Kansas City at the spring quilt market. Even though we will be out of town, that doesn't mean the behind the scenes work will stop. Dad will be at our house morning, noon and night packaging kits and blocks of the month. We love our Dad and appreciate everything he does for us. Debby's husband, Ken, will be busy building new shelves (don't you love the shelves he builds for us?). In between all that hustle and bustle, our friend will pop in at odd hours to take care of the doggies.
We will post market updates next week. Even though we will be out of town, the shop will be open. Our friend, Linda, will be here to help you. Our after market party is the following Saturday, May 26. No reservation required, no cost.
Our Friendship Club meets this Saturday at 9:00. As a reminder, this event is open to anyone who is working on a block of the month through our shop. So, your block of the month for this month is ready to be picked up. If you're getting yours through the mail, it's in the mail.
Darlene and Debby
Sew Graceful Quilting, 14094 Pleasant Ridge Road, Rogers 479-372-7403 (open Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00; other hours by appointment)
http://www.sewgracefulquilting.com
Just a hodge podge of information
Sometimes the newsletter title comes easily; other times we wrangle with what we'll call it. This was one of those wrangle times. We have a hodge podge variety of topics this week so grab something cool to drink and read on. We have been busy making lots of fun kits for you. This is the beginning of the Wild Coxcomb kit Kay designed for the magazine......
......which can be found here. If you're on our automatic for the Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine, we have it waiting for you. If you're not on auto and would like a copy, please let us know. We also will be happy to hold a kit for you.
We also have been busy cutting wool and making wool kits.
Remember the cute summer piece we showed you a few weeks ago?
We now have the fall piece ready. As a reminder, these all fit in the same frame so you have something that will last through all the seasons.
Last week we shared Jane H's quilt. We had a "duh" moment and neglected to give you the pattern name. The quilt is "Confederate Courtship" from Log Cabin Fever by Evelyn Sloppy. We have the book in the store if you'd like us to hold one for you. Jane used stash fabric from a variety of sources but we think the fabrics we're showing below make a wonderful start.
Mr UPS brought fabric! He brought yummy reds and greens. Although these aren't "real" reproduction fabrics, we think the greens would work wonderfully with the reproduction reds we shared in our newsletter last week. These are beautiful in person (deeper reds and greens)--we have better pictures on our website.
Our Spring Fling block of the month has officially started. We changed ours a bit (hmmmm....bet you are surprised at that.......insert grin here) and added wool. If you're looking for an inexpensive, quick, easy and darling project, this is one you should consider. You can see closeups of a couple of the blocks by going to the "Block of the Month" tab at our website.
Jeanne Horton's "Orchard House" by Windham Fabrics can be seen on Windham's website. Sigh....we want it all....and we want it NOW! Ideas are flying around for this beautiful line. We'd hoped to create a nice collage to give you a preview but can't seem to make the computer do what we want so here's a few swatches to entice you to hop over to http://www.windhamfabrics.net/cgi-bin/fabricshop/gallery.cgi?Category=580&View=All&v=1 to look over the fabrics.
........and where did time go?! It seems like just a few weeks ago that we were getting ready for War Eagle---and it's here again. We will be open this Friday, May 4 9:00-3:00 to accomodate our out of town visitors. Of course, locals are more than welcome to stop by too!
Be sure to mark your calendar to join us Saturday, May 26 for our After Market Party. We'll have new things from market as well as some new projects to tempt you.
We told you it was a hodge podge.......see you soon!
Darlene and Debby
Sew Graceful Quilting, 14094 Pleasant Ridge Road, Rogers AR 479-372-7403 (open Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00; other hours by appointment)
Inspiration
We've said it before and will continue to say it - we love it when customers bring in show and tell. This is Jane H's second quilt. I can't remember my second quilt but bet it wasn't anywhere near like this -- and this is a BIG quilt.
Jane didn't stop with "just" a quilt. She went on to make this wonderful pillow from Blackbird Designs' "Weekend" book. She changed the color palette completely and we think it's spectacular. Incidentally, it's a gift for her niece -- wonder if she'd consider adopting us?!
We also helped a customer choose fabric so she could make a quilt using our "Simply 9" pattern. The pattern is fat quarter friendly and SO quick and easy to make.
Here's some of the fabrics she will use in her quilt.
Recently, Kay Triplett the author of "The Red and Green Quilts from the Poos Collection" e-mailed to thank us for supporting her by carrying her book in our store. We were very honored she'd take the time to write us. We asked if there is another book in the works, and are very happy to report she's working on a book about antique chintz quilts. It won't be out until 2013 but you can be assured we will have it in stock once it's published.
We have some great red reproduction fabrics. Pair these with a nice Moda Bella solid or one of the Marcus Primitive Aged Muslins and you've got the start of a beautiful creation.
If you bought a spool of Superior monofilament thread without a snap top, be sure to pick up a thread net next time you're in the store. Superior discontinued the snap top because the spools tended to break. They replaced the snap top with a mesh that goes around the spool to hold the monofilament in place (if you've used monofilament you know what we mean when we say it goes everywhere!). During the transition from snap top to regular top, they didn't include the net. So....to make a long story short, they sent us nets to give to you.
Spring quilt market is just around the corner (May 19) and designers have been busy sewing and creating for you. One of our favorite designers is Blackbird Designs. Here's a small peek at their new line.......sigh.......can't wait to see it all in person......and to see the book they're working on!
Maggie B's new book has a name! "A Day at Sunnybrook" That's all we know but will let you know more as soon as we know more. Jeanne Horton's new line is called Orchard House. Bet it's great too. Oh my, sensory overload.
If you're traveling to Paducah this weekend, safe travels and have fun. We will be minding the store and creating more new samples to inspire you. Saturday is Simply Sit and Stitch day - bring your project and come out and play.
Darlene and Debby
Sew Graceful Quilting, 14094 Pleasant Ridge Road, Rogers 479-372-7403 (open Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00; other hours by appointment)
Block of the month updates and exciting news
Welcome to all the new subscribers who signed up at the Bella Vista show. It was a very nice show with lots of inspiration. To view past issues of newsletters, simply click on the link at the bottom of this newsletter. Once you're at our site, click on the "Newsletter" tab on the left side of the page.
Our Sweet and Simple block of the month is almost closed. We have only 2 openings so if you have been thinking about joining, now is the time to make the commitment. We have no plans to recut it so when it's sold out, it's over. This is the pattern cover photo--we forgot to take a photo while the quilt was hanging at the Bella Vista show. If you're not local and would like us to e-mail you a photo of our quilt (it's very similar to this one) please let us know.
Due to overwhelming demand, we decided to offer our Merry Christmas block of the month again. Several of you expressed interest when we vended at the Dallas show; we'll contact you. If you're not on the list and want to get in on this block of the month, please e-mail or call. This quilt finishes 58" x 72"
We also have been busy putting together kits for "My Sewing Room". Your kit includes the pattern, wool, fabric, tape measure, and buttons. This is not only a pretty piece but is also practical--the bottom row is actually a row of pockets for your sewing utensils. It finishes at 33" x 45". Let us know if we can reserve a kit or pattern for you.
One of the absolutely best parts of owning a shop is getting to see what our customers are working on. Recently two ladies finished their Lisa's Garden block of the month and brought theirs so we could see. They both did an absolutely fantastic job and we are very excited to share with you.
Here's Linda L's quilt (she used the fabric we provided in the kits)
and here's Jeanie S's quilt (you'll notice she changed the setting -- we love it when customers take our project and make it their own!)
Lisa' Garden was one of our $10 per month blocks of the month. Unfortunately, it's sold out but we have another $10 per month one: "I'll be Home for Christmas". The backgrounds are brushed homespun, applique shapes are wool, and instructions are provided for the changes we made. What a deal for $10 per month!
......and now for the really BIG news (as if all that wasn't news enough!)......you will want to be sure to reserve your copy of the spring issue of Primitive Quilts and Projects......and you will want to be sure to turn to page 56 first......because Kay has a project in the magazine.
We have a limited number of kits and will be happy to reserve one for you.
........and we want to know what else Kay has up her sleeves!
Our Embroidery class is this Saturday 9-12 and the Binding class is 12:30-2:00. Next week we have a Beginning Quilting class Tues, 9:00-1:00 and an Invisible Machine Applique class Thurs, Apr 26 9:00-12:00.
See you soon!
Darlene and Debby
Sew Graceful Quilting, 14094 Pleasant Ridge Road, Rogers 479-372-7403 (open Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00; other hours by appointment)
Workshops through June
This week we want to share our workshop offerings for the second quarter of 2012. We realize your schedule may not be the same as ours so if you need a class at a day/time we don't have listed, please let us know. Also, we are always looking for new ideas for classes. Let us know how we can work with you.
Invisible Machine Applique - If you've tried hand applique and found you're not able to finish as many projects as you need or want, you may want to consider machine applique. With this method, viewers will have a difficult time telling that you didn't do your applique by hand. Once you master this technique you'll be as prolific as Kay in getting projects completed. Thurs Apr 26 9:00-12:00 OR Sat Jun 2 9:00-12:00 Instructor: Kay Harmon $20 fee which includes kit
Beginning Quilting - Let Darlene demystify the quilt making process as she guides you through the steps to successful quilting. You will learn how to properly use rotary cutting supplies, how to sew an exact 1/4" seam, how to construct blocks, how to sew blocks together, and how to measure for accurate borders which will insure a square quilt. This is a 2-part class. Tues Apr 24 and Tues May 1 9:00-1:00 Instructor: Darlene Szabo $40 fee which includes pattern
Machine Quilting—Do you have too many unquilted tops around your house? If so, you should consider learning how to quilt them yourself. During this workshop you will learn the basics: grid quilting, stitching in the ditch, free motion quilting, and how to use stencils. You will get lots of practice time. Thurs May 3 9:00-12:00 OR Sat Jun 16 9:00-12:00 Instructor: Kay Harmon $20 fee which includes batting
Binding - Your quilt is quilted......now what? Darlene will show you how to properly attach binding. During this hands on workshop, you will bind a small quilt. Sat Apr 21 12:30-2:00 OR Thurs May 10 10:00-11:30. Instructor: Darlene Szabo $15 fee which includes kit
Hand Applique with a Twist - Have you tried needleturn applique without the results you'd like? But do you love to play with fabric? And really, really want to hand applique? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, join Kay as she shows you how to get perfect results with minimal effort. Thurs May 24 9:00-12:00. Instructor: Kay Harmon $20 fee which includes kit
Wool Applique—Wool appliqué is quick, easy to learn, and the perfect take along project for those on the go. You will learn the basic blanket stitch as well as several specialty stitches that can be used to embellish your piece. Sat May 5 9:00-12:00 OR Tues Jun 5 12:30-3:00 Instructor: Darlene Szabo $25 fee which includes pattern, Valdani threads, and wool kit for the heart pincushion
Embroidery - In this workshop you will learn everything you need to know to get started with embroidery. You'll learn what Transfer Ease is used for, the benefits of using a stabilizer, pros and cons of different threads, and various stitches. Saturday Apr 21 0:00-12:00 OR Tuesday May 8 9:00-12:00 Instructor: Debby Bond $25 fee which includes your choice of pattern, the embroidery pocket guide and kit.
Block Keeper - During this 2-part workshop, you will learn how to construct a very handy tool to keep your blocks (applique or pieced) nice and flat. You will learn how to do basic machine quilting during the 1st session; during the 2nd session you will learn how to make a tufted pincushion and how to create a removable top for your keeper. Tues Jun 5 and Tues June 19 9:00-12:00 Instructor: Kay Harmon $30 fee which includes your starter kit. (Sorry - the applique block pictured is NOT given as a free gift to the one who finishes early - insert chuckle here)
After Market Party - Yes, we are going to spring market. This year we won't have far to go because it's in Kansas City. Mark your calendars and join us Sat May 26 9:00-3:00 to see what's new in the world of quilting.
Simply Sit and Stitch - This is our new stitching group. We meet the 4th Thursday of each month. There's no cost, no reservation required -- bring what you're working on and plan to spend the day. Apr 19, May 17, Jun 21
Friendship Club meets this Saturday, Apr 14 at 9:00. As a reminder, this is a free event for anyone who's participating in ANY of our block of the month programs. This month Kay will be giving a demo on the fusible method of applique. We are also available if you have any questions about your project.
Whew! That should have kept you busy for a while. Please call or e-mail us to get your name on the list.
Calico Cutups quilt show is this Friday and Saturday at the Bella Vista Assembly of God Church, 1771 Forest Hills Blvd 9:00-4:00. OK guys.....this is THE BEST value in the whole country. $5, yes $5, gets you in the door both Friday and Saturday. We did the math---that's 36 cents an hour! Where can you find entertainment like that for that price? The show is complete with quilts (of course), food and vendors. Be sure to stop by our booth and say hi.
We'll be back next week. See you soon!
Darlene and Debby
Sew Graceful Quilting, 14094 Pleasant Ridge Road, Rogers 479-372-7403 (open Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00; other hours by appointment)
Tues, Thurs, Sat 9:00-3:00
14094 Pleasant Ridge Road