Quilt Patterns by Jean Boyd

New Patterns Coming Soon!

2012-02-09T13:20:00.000-05:00

It doesn't seem possible that it is 2 months since my last Blog entry.

I am busy working on 6 new patterns, all in various stages of completion. The good news is that this is the view out my back door as I work on the computer. Not too hard to take!

Canadian Christmas Blog Hop: Week #9

2011-12-11T08:54:00.000-05:00

The last designer in our Canadian Christmas Blog Hop is Cheryl Wall from British Columbia. Cheryl was also the one who organized this project. Thanks, Cheryl, for a job well-done! Let's do it again next year.

Click here to get all the instructions for her Christmas at the Cabin sachet and a recipe for delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter balls.

Making Quilt Labels with Electric Quilt

2011-12-08T16:04:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick tutorial on making quilt labels using Electric Quilt and EQ printables fabric. Enjoy!

http://www.doyoueq.com/Shop/EQ7/video/quiltlabel/quiltlabel.html

Canadian Christmas Blog Hop: Week #8

2011-12-03T20:06:00.001-05:00

This week's featured designer is Sue Jensen from British Columbia. Be sure to visit her blog for another great Christmas project, a snowman candle mat, and a recipe for mint snowballs. Sue is giving away a kit as well, so be sure to leave a comment on her blog.

2011-11-29T06:46:00.002-05:00

I have just discovered this great app at the i Tunes store: American Folk Art Mseum Presents: Infinite Variety: "Three Centuries of Red and White Quilts". You can see pictures of the 650 red and white quilts that were on display recently at the Museum. A real feast for the eyes! There is also an interesting link that shows the installation of this exhibit.

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #7

2011-11-27T19:30:00.001-05:00

Be sure to visit Susan Purney Mark's blog for her Christmas Blog Hop project. It is called Blue Glue Batik Blast and would be fun to do with small children over the holidays.

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #6

2011-11-20T06:00:00.005-05:00

Click here to get your copy of my Christmas Memories pattern. This little quilt features a removable photograph, so you can change the picture whenever your like. Hope you enjoy this project! I would love to see pictures of your finished quilts.

Click here for my recipe for Cranberry Relish. This is an old family favourite that I have been using for years. It also makes a great gift!

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #5

2011-11-13T06:00:00.007-05:00

Be sure to visit Maria Hrabrovsky's blog to see her Christmas pot holder pattern and recipes for some yummy cookies. Click here for all the details.
Next Sunday I will have a pattern for a Christmas wall quilt that holds a favourite photo. I will also have an easy Cranberry relish recipe that I have been using for years. Be sure to come back on November 20!

Remembrance Day 2011

2011-11-11T06:18:00.004-05:00

A New App for Quilters

2011-11-08T07:57:00.001-05:00

Helen Stubbings from Australia has just created a free quilters' app for iPad, iPod and iPhone users. Check it out on iTunes. Here is the link: http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/hugs-n-kisses/id471813377?mt=8

There is a great tutorial on embroidery stitches with wonderful close-up pictures.

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #4

2011-11-06T08:29:00.001-05:00

As promised, here is the link to Kathy K. Wylie's Christmas project and recipe. Click here for all the instructions. Enjoy!

Come back again next Sunday for a pattern and recipe from Maria Hrabovsky.

Quilter's Connection Magazine Special Offer

2011-11-05T09:22:00.000-04:00

To celebrate the upcoming holiday season, Quilter's Connection Magazine is offering a 2-for-1 subscription special. Just purchase a 1-year subscription for yourself, and they will send a 1-year gift subscription to your friend, at no additional cost to you! They will even send a holiday card to inform your friend of your gift.

Both you and your friend will receive the Winter 2011/12 issue as part of your subscription - just in time for Christmas!

This special offer is available only until the end of November 2011.

Click on the link below for more information.

Holiday 2-for1 Special

Sneak Preview of This Week's Christmas Blog Hop

2011-11-03T09:02:00.000-04:00

This week's designer is Kathy K. Wylie. Her pattern is called Spinning Star – a design that can be used any number of ways.

Appliqué it onto circular coasters:

Stitch it on your next quilt:

Bead it on a star-shaped ornament:

Kathy is also going to share her recipe for Christmas tourtiere. Be sure to come back on Sunday for the complete pattern and recipe.

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #3

2011-10-30T10:20:00.002-04:00

This week's featured Canadian designer is Benita Skinner. Click here to see her pattern for a string-pieced Christmas ornament and her recipe for luscious looking Domino Bars.

Come back again next week for another great Christmas pattern and recipe from Kathy K. Wylie.

Christmas Blog Hop: Week #2

2011-10-23T06:15:00.005-04:00

This week's designer is Daphne Greig from Vancouver Island. Click here to see her wonderful free Christmas pattern and recipe. Daphne has kits available for this great table runner!

Be sure to check back again next week for another great Christmas pattern and recipe.

Our First Christmas Blog Hop Project

2011-10-16T09:20:00.001-04:00

Dougal Walker from British Columbia is the first designer in our Christmas Blog Hop. She has a great pattern for Christmas mitten ornaments and a recipe for cookies to match! Click here for the free pattern.

Be sure to check back next Sunday for another free Christmas pattern and recipe from Daphne Greig.

A Canadian Christmas Blog Hop

2011-10-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

Here is the ultimate shop hop! You don't even have to leave the comfort of your home. Every Sunday, starting on October 16, you will be able to visit the Blog of a well-known Canadian designer. There you will find a free pattern and a favourite recipe, both with a Christmas theme. It's never too early to start on Christmas gifts for friends and family!

Visit my Blog next Sunday to get the link to the first designer's Blog.

Fanfare: An old design with a contemporary look!

2011-09-29T16:31:00.001-04:00

My newest pattern will be available next Wednesday. "Fanfare" uses 3 traditional fan designs in a new setting. The fabric I used in the samples is called "Vintage Rosie" by Northcott. This fabric will be available in quilt shops next Spring. If you can't wait until then to try this new pattern, you can use up some of your wonderful stash fabrics to make a really scrappy quilt (You do have a stash, don't you?)

The fan shapes can also be cut from 2 1/2" strips - perfect for Jelly Rolls!

The fans are hand-pieced and hand-appliqued, so this makes a great take-along project when travelling.

There are instructions for 2 different sizes: 63" x 63" and 35" x 35". The smaller size is perfect for a wall quilt or table topper.

Strippy Table Set in the Keepsake Catalogue

2011-08-18T08:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I received the new Fall catalogue from Keepsake Quilting. It's always inspiring to see all the new and creative designs that are featured there. I am also happy to see my Strippy Table Set pattern for sale in this catalogue. Keepsake is selling a fabric kit to make the table topper and placemats, so it will be a quick and easy project!

Click here to see the complete catalogue. Isn't it strange that the catalogue opens to the page with my pattern on it?

Table Topper

Placemat

One More New Pattern

2011-08-16T08:54:00.000-04:00

This pattern is called Wild Goose Chase. The fabric collection is Savile Row by Northcott and it will be available later this year. It is a great scrap quilt and would be perfect for using up your stash (or at least part of it!). The large quilt is 76" x 92" and the small one is 59" x 59". The pattern will be available on my website soon.

Here are some of the fabrics I used from the Savile Row collection.

Another New Pattern!

2011-08-12T09:54:00.001-04:00

Here are some pictures of my newest pattern called "Criss Cross". There are 2 sizes: 85" x 105" and 66" x 66". The fabrics are from the new Groovin' Licorice collection by Northcott. Although the pattern is available now, the fabric will not be in stores until late Fall. But of course you can always use your own fabric choices!

Here are some of the fabrics I used.

More New Patterns!

2011-07-07T14:00:00.002-04:00

I have just published 2 new patterns. Both are quick and easy and would be great summer projects if you need quilts for kids in the near future. The patterns will be available on my website soon.

Boys Toys (58" x 58") uses the new Boys at Work fabric collection by Northcott.

Here's a look a couple of the feature fabrics:

"Spring Fling (52" x 52") uses the Bunny Patch flannel fabric collection by Northcott. As you can see, there is both a girl's and boys's version of this fun quilt.

Here are pictures of a couple of the fabrics I used.

This is a border print so the quilt goes together very quickly!

Cruising On the Magedoma

2011-06-07T08:42:00.002-04:00

On Sunday I had the pleasure of cruising on the historic steam yacht, Cangarda. The Fulford family of Brockville owned this yacht for many years in the early 1900's and they named it Magedoma after family members, Mary, George, Dorothy and Martha. The current owner changed the name back to the original Cangarda, because it is bad luck to change the name of a ship.

You can learn more about the Fulford family here.

Captain Oliver at the wheel

Supper in the dining room

Fulford Place in the background. This was the home of George Fulford, owner of the Magedoma. It is now open as a museum and is a national historic site. If you are ever in Brockville, just let me know and I will give you a private tour of the mansion!

The original boat house for the yacht is now a private home. The yacht docked here at night when it was in Brockville.

View of the sitting room

Inside the sitting room. Notice the carpet!

The Magedoma Arrives in Brockville!

2011-06-04T18:00:00.008-04:00

Today the magnificent steam yacht, Cangarda, (formerly the Magedoma, owned by the Fulford Family of Brockville) arrived in the Brockville harbour. The yacht was originally purchased by the family ca 1900. It has been expertly restored and the public can go on board until tomorrow.

I will be going on a 2 hour cruise tomorrow - I am hoping for calm water!

Click here for more information about the Cangarda/Magedoma.

Will Quilters Be Next?

2011-06-02T10:37:00.005-04:00

Is this an opportunity for quilters? Click here to read this article from the New York Times.

Half Price Redwork Patterns!

2011-05-23T08:46:00.004-04:00

From May 23 - May 28, all Redwork patterns are half price! Redwork embroidery is a great take-along project when travelling in the summer. Click here for more information and to order your patterns.

Redwork Cottage

Redwork Snapshots

Redwork Basket Sampler

Redwork Kitchen

The Gardens in Temple Square

2011-05-21T06:00:00.001-04:00

The gardens in Temple Square were spectacular. Maybe, if it ever stops raining, we will get to enjoy our spring flowers here!

Temple Square

2011-05-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

Temple Square is a 10 acre piece of property in the centre of Salt Lake City. The buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The building on the right with the domed roof is the Tabernacle where I heard the Mormon Tabernacle choir.

People Watching at Quilt Market

2011-05-19T06:00:00.002-04:00

It's always fun to meet up with fellow pattern designers and friends at Quilt Market.

Here is Cheryl Wall from Abbottsford BC with her country style designs. Check out her website here.

Ursula Riegel is from Vancouver Island. Her company is Designs to Share With You. Ursula has a great method of using curved shapes in her designs.

DJ Richards Design company is from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. They have a unique way of using folded triangles in their designs.

Here is Lisa from Woolylady designs. Lisa and her partner Gail, dye all their own wools and create beautiful applique designs.

And here is Eleanor Burns. This year she was dressed as an astronaut to promote her new book about Stars.

More Great Quilts from Quilt Market

2011-05-18T06:00:00.001-04:00

Aren't these quilts amazing?

What Is It?

2011-05-17T06:00:00.001-04:00

Apparently this is the new way to present lectures and seminars. I attended several classes and seminars at Quilt Market in Salt Lake City last week. Instead of being given a handful of printed notes, I received key chains, bracelets etc. Each item was also a flash drive that you can plug into your computer. Then you can see all the notes from the class plus lots of extras such as free patterns and even a quilt design program with hundreds of quilt blocks that can be made into quilts of any size. When you find the design you like, you push the "print" button and print out a coloured picture of the quilt, the fabric requirements and the cutting instructions. How cool is that!

A Few Great Quilts from Quilt Market

2011-05-16T14:55:00.000-04:00

Here are just a few of the amazing quilts I saw at Quilt Market in Salt Lake City last week.

More Great Quilts from the Ottawa Show

2011-05-11T06:00:00.003-04:00

"Good Vibrations" by Leslie Mills

"Never Again...Again" by Joan Dorsay

"Branching Out" by Marjorie Jones

Great Quilts From the Ottawa Show

2011-05-09T09:05:00.000-04:00

"Vermont Peony" by Lynda Smyth

"The Lineup" by Leona Pasmore. Made for the Guild Challenge "Desperate Times Call for Desparate Measures"

"Autumn Friend by Sheila Hills

"Cats at Play" by Nancy Maloney

"Celebrating 60" by Judy Reid

Another New Pattern!

2011-05-03T10:37:00.001-04:00

My new Nested Nine Patch pattern is now finished and will be available on my website soon. Special thanks to Maggie Sportel for taking the photo that appears on the pattern cover.

Thanks also to Liz Healy who suggested the name for this pattern. (That is sometimes the hardest part of the whole designing process!) Both ladies will be receiving a copy of the pattern as soon as it is published.

2011-04-24T07:54:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter Everyone!

All I need to know I learned from the Easter Bunny:

Don't put all your eggs in one basket.

Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.

There's no such thing as too much candy.

All work and no play can make you a basket case.

Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.

Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits.

Some body parts should be floppy.

Keep your paws off of other people's jelly beans.

Good things come in small, sugar coated packages.

The grass is always greener in someone else's basket.

To show your true colors, you have to come out of the shell.

May the joy of the season fill your heart.

Thanks to my friends, Sherril and David for sharing this great little Easter story!

Fibre Friends' Road Trip

2011-04-21T06:00:00.001-04:00

Before leaving for home after our Fibre Friends get-together, of course we had to visit Cheryl's local quilt shop. We were warmly welcomed at the Quilting Quarters in Almonte and spent some time looking (and buying!) at this attractive shop.

Fibre Friends Round Robin Challenge

2011-04-19T09:53:00.000-04:00

This year, as well as doing our Fat Quarter Quilt Exchange, 6 members of our Fibre Friends group decided to participate in a Round Robin Challenge. Here we are with the blocks we made as a start to the project. All will be done in secret from now on. Check back in 6 months to see the finished projects!

Quilts for Belarus

2011-04-07T17:26:00.001-04:00

Be sure to have a look at this post by Eric McKenzie. http://www.canadianaidforchernobyl.com/home/2011/04/07/1972/

The Canadian Aid for Chernobyl volunteers from the Brockville area have been in Belarus for the last few weeks. Eric's post shows pictures of the children from the orphanage after they were presented with their quilts. Most of the quilts came from the Chernobyl quilting group and members of the Thousand Islands Quilters' Guild who meet every Monday at the Brockville Public Library. Congratulations to everyone involved in this very worthwhile project!

Red and White Quilts

2011-04-03T10:35:00.001-04:00

Here are more pictures of that wonderful red and white quilt exhibit that was held in New York city last month. Click here and here to see the videos.

Red and White Quilts

2011-03-29T06:00:00.005-04:00

If you are a fan of red and white quilts, you will love these pictures! Click here to see all the quilts.

Antique Quilts

2011-03-28T09:37:00.000-04:00

I always enjoy looking at traditional quilts. These pictures were taken at the Ottawa Antique show last weekend. The quilts were available from Dovetails and Square Nails Antique Shop in Brockville.

Nine-Patch Log Cabin Quilt

2011-03-24T06:00:00.001-04:00

Despite the fact that I really tried to make a nine-patch pieced border for this quilt, it just didn't work. I have the sample blocks to prove it! So I have decided to use the leftover strips and make a strippy border. I made so many extra nine-patch blocks that I may now run out of fabric for the border. Now I will be forced to visit the quilt shop to buy more fabric. Don't you love it when that happens?

ColorWorks Fabric from Northcott

2011-03-22T06:00:00.001-04:00

I just received this shade card with samples of all the new ColorWorks fabrics from Northcott. What a wonderful collection! There are 102 solid colours of their usual high-quality premium cotton. There is a free pattern using these fabrics on the Northcott website. Just click here to have a look!

Spring Has Sprung

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

I think Spring has arrived in eastern Ontario.

Flowers are poking through the ground

Snowdrops have appeared

Most of the snow has melted

The horses are out in the fields

Fibre Friends as Consultants

2011-03-19T06:00:00.009-04:00

I am still trying to figure out what to do with my small African batik panels. When the Fibre Friends group was here last week we had some of the bits and pieces laid out on the floor. My Fibre Friends consultants think I should put everything together in one quilt. Here's how it looks right now. Still lots of work to do!

Fibre Friends

2011-03-17T06:00:00.001-04:00

Our Fibre Friends group meets once a month. Here are some pictures of the hard working members at last week's meeting.

Linda is knitting a scarf. The one she is wearing uses yarn with beads already attached. Stunning!

Some of Linda's great yarns

Trudy is working on the memory quilt for her sister's special birthday.

The Fabric Has Arrived!

2011-03-15T18:56:00.001-04:00

The fabric for my Block of the Month project designed by Beth Ferrrier of Applewood Farms has just arrived. Here it is! The fabrics are by Northcott.

The first patterns were printed in January and February and the March blocks will be on Beth's website in the next couple of days. So I am a little bit behind, but now that I have the fabric, I really don't have any excuses. I will keep you posted on my progress.

Here is a picture of the finished quilt. Finished size 103" x 103".

Fibre Friends' Quilt Show

2011-03-04T06:00:00.002-05:00

My Fibre Friends group meets once a month to work on projects and share ideas. In February of every year we bring a brown paper bag filled with fat quarters. The bags are exchanged among the members and in December everyone receives a quilt made from her fat quarters plus whatever the quilter has decided to add. It's always a wonderful surprise for everyone to see their new quilt.

We have making quilts for each other for about 8 years now. Many of our quilts are on display for the month of March at the Brockville Public Library on Buell Street. If you are in the area, be sure to stop by and see this wonderful collection!

Here are pictures of just a few of the quilts.

Quilters' Pleasure Weekend

2011-03-02T16:12:00.001-05:00

Last weekend I visited the Cornwall Quilters' Guild show in Cornwall, Ontario. Here are a few pictures of some of the quilts that were there.

" Snugly Bugly" by Janice Garlough-Buckland. Design by Amy Bradley

"3's Company Sampler" by Janice Garlough-Buckland. A Thimbleberries Block of the Month pattern

"Cheater" by Margaret Robertson Flynn. Hand quilted by St. Mathew's Church quilters.

"Drunkard's Path" by Diane Thain

"Spring Chickens" by Janice Garlough Buckland

New Projects: Part 3

2011-02-28T06:00:00.035-05:00

Another new project! I have decided to make this Block of the Month Quilt by Beth Ferrier of Applewood Farm Publications. The pattern is a free download from Beth's site. I even ordered the fabric kit, so this is sure to be a stress free project. Or maybe not! Will just have to wait and see. You can read more about Beth and her Block of the Month project on her Blog. Her latest post is about packaging all that fabric for the kits.

Here is my first test piece using Beth's method of machine applique. I think I like it!

New Projects: Part 2

2011-02-26T06:00:00.006-05:00

About 3 years ago I purchased this batik panel from my friend, Pippa Moore, of Kitambaa Designs. I am using leftover fabric from my African Safari design to make some pieced blocks to complement the panel.

I purchased these 2 panels when I was in South Africa 4 years ago. Again I am using leftover fabric to make some pieced blocks. Maybe all 3 panels will end up in one quilt? Maybe I will have 3 separate quilts? Sometimes these projects take on a life of their own, so who knows what may happen!

New Projects: Part 1

2011-02-24T13:10:00.003-05:00

I have 3 different projects in progress, all in various stages of completion. I am trying to work on new techniques and/or designs. Here are some blocks on my design wall using reproduction Civil War prints. This is a completely new colour scheme for me and I have enjoyed using it. This is probably going to be a large quilt with a pieced border. I still have lots of strips cut, so will wait and see what happens. I will keep you posted!

Just for Fun

2011-02-18T09:53:00.003-05:00

If you have 6 minutes to spare, have a look at this little video produced by the National Film Board of Canada. A tribute to the unique and long-established art form of patchwork quilting, this abstract animated film uses computer and experimental techniques to choreograph quilt motifs and designs to music. Click here to watch.

Thanks, Rosemary, for sending me this link!

Hearts and Stars Pattern

2011-02-15T08:47:00.000-05:00

The picture on my Valentine's Day blog yesterday was my Hearts and Stars pattern #240. (It's available on my web site here.) There are instructions for 2 sizes in the pattern: 45" x 57" and 30" x 30". It's a great pattern for using up your stash! The large quilt uses 10 fat eighths plus border fabric. The small quilt uses ten 10" squares (who doesn't have that in their stash???) plus border fabric.

45" x 57"

30" x 30"

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T07:53:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

2 New Patterns

2011-01-21T20:02:00.001-05:00

I have just added 2 new patterns to the Traditional Designs page on my website.

Snow Patch is a quick and easy design that combines 2 traditional blocks. It is 60" x 78". The fabric shown is from the Wonders of Winter collection by Northcott. This fabric will be available soon in your favourite quilt shop.

The No Trick Card Trick pattern has instructions for 2 different sizes: 47" x 58" and 66" x 83". Use strip piecing to make the blocks - no set-in patches!

Feet For Sale

2011-01-17T06:00:00.003-05:00

Since purchasing my new Janome 7700 machine, I no longer need the many feet I have for my Bernina 1530. These feet will fit most Bernina machines from the 830 series through to the 1530 series. Please contact me if you would like more information.

Bernina walking foot

Generic walking foot for Bernina

Garage Sale - Again!

2011-01-15T08:18:00.008-05:00

On January 27 my Guild (Thousand Islands Quilters' Guild) is having its annual Garage Sale. Since I recently discovered 3 big boxes of fabric in my garage that never made it to my garage sale last September, how could I not rent a table? I will have many bundles of fabric, fusible die-cut applique shapes and lots of other stuff. How does it all accumulate so quickly?

$2.00 fabric bundles

$3.00 and $4.00 fabric bundles

$1.00 - $2.00 Fusible die-cut applique shapes

2011 Colour of the Year

2011-01-09T08:59:00.003-05:00

According to Pantone, the world-recognized leader in everything about colour, Honeysuckle is this year's colour of the year. Will we see it in quilting fabrics? Let's wait and see!

Here is the official word from Pantone:

Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life. In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T09:23:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

It's time for some changes. I have started with a new look to my Blog which I am sure will continue to be tweaked for the next little while. I am also starting on some new pattern designs which are planned to use up some of those fat quarters, strips, jelly rolls etc. that we all seem to collect. Here is a sneak preview of one of the new patterns. I made this quilt for my friend Marilee for our annual Fibre Friends quilt exchange.

Here is a different version of the quilt that I did using Electric Quilt.

I am now working on a beige and blue version of this design. It was a good excuse to use my new Janome 7700 machine! I have figured out the basics on this great machine but it will take lots of playing and experimenting to figure out all the bells and whistles.

More New Patterns!

2010-11-02T10:23:00.008-04:00

I have just put 2 new patterns on my website. Each pattern contains 2 different designs. Click here to see more details about both patterns.

Movin' Right Along (Pattern #250)
Quilt Size: 34" x 34" and 41" x 56"
The fabrics shown in these quilts are from the On the Move fabric collection by Northcott. Both of these quilts are quick and easy to make and would make great gifts for that special child in your life!

Kids on the Go (Pattern #249)
Quilt Size: 61" x 67"
Use the boy's panel from the Scrappy and Happy Baby fabric collection by Northcott (or a similar panel) and then add this easy Pinwheel border.

Here is the girl's version of the quilt. Use the girl's panel from the Scrappy and Happy Baby fabric collection and then add this fun Friendship Star border.

Click here to visit my website and see more details about both patterns.

2 New Patterns are Available Now!

2010-09-08T08:39:00.008-04:00

These 2 new patterns are now available on my website. Click here for more details.

There are 2 versions of Jungle Stars in the pattern. One has multi-coloured stars and the other has stars that are all the same colour. The fabrics shown in the pictures are from the Jungle Babies collection by Northcott.

Jungle Stars with multi-coloured stars 49" x 49"

Jungle Stars with one colour for the stars 49" x 49"

Parisian Garden is quick and easy to make and is a good pattern for beginners. The fabrics shown are from the Montmartre collection by Northcott.

Parisian Garden 53.5" x 68.5"

More About FFFFF (Garage Sale)

2010-09-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

I have filled zip-lock bags with thread, quilt blocks partly finished projects etc. - more bargains for quilters at the Garage Sale on September 25. And this is just some of my stuff! 3 other quilters have items for sale as well.

Fat Quarters $1.00 each

More fat quarters

Bags of Thread $5.00

Fibre Friends Fall Fabric Frenzy (aka Garage Sale for Quilters)

2010-09-03T16:21:00.004-04:00

3 of my quilting buddies and I have decided to sell some of our excess fabric and related quilting supplies. Our Garage Sale will be held on September 25 in Brockville.

For the past month I have been sorting and pricing - how did I ever accumulate so much "stuff"? Here is a sneak preview of some of the fabric that I will have for sale at bargain prices.

Bundles of assorted sizes - $4.00

Big pieces 1 m or more $4.00 per metre

Bundles of small pieces - $2.00

More big pieces - $4 per metre. Great for quilt backings!

Rideau Valley Art Festival: Part 3

2010-09-02T06:14:00.001-04:00

What a great way to enjoy a beautiful summer day! Buy a gourmet sandwich or pizza at The Rustic Oven in Westport, sit by the water and enjoy the sights.

Rideau Valley Art Festival: Part 2

2010-08-31T05:57:00.001-04:00

Monika Seidenbusch was another artist at the Art Show whose work I admired. These pieces are acrylic on canvas. Be sure to check out Monika's website to learn more about her.

Stephanie Ford Forrester: Textile Artist

2010-08-29T09:44:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I visited the annual Rideau Valley Art Festival in Westport, Ontario where I had the pleasure of meeting textile artist, Stephanie Ford Forrester. Her art quilts are amazing. Be sure to check out her website to learn more about Stephanie.

Pictured below are just 2 of her hand appliqued and pieced works.

Hooked on Fabric Quilt and Rug Show: Part 3

2010-08-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here are a few of my favourite rug hooking pieces from the show last weekend.

Birds Walking by Bernice Watkins

Historic Brockville by Jean Smith

Hooked on Fabric Quilt and Rug Show: Part 2

2010-08-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

Vintage quilts from the Kemptville show that was held last weekend

"Hooked on Fabric" Quilt and Rug Hooking Show

2010-08-14T19:33:00.003-04:00

Here are a few of my favourite quilts from the "Hooked on Fabric" show being held in Kemptville, Ontario today and tomorrow. If you are in the area, be sure and stop by. It is a great show!

Simple Country Sampler by Lois Underhill

Me and My Friends by Lois Underhill

Matilija Poppy by Patty Latourell

Second Life by Pat Kiteley

Pattern Sale!

2010-07-23T16:08:00.008-04:00

25 different discontinued or overstocked patterns are now on sale! You can buy any 3 patterns for just $10.00 (plus $3.00 shipping) or any 6 patterns for just $17.00 (plus $4.00 shipping). Payment can be made by Visa, PayPal or check.

Click here for all the details.

E-mail me if you need more information. (patterns@ripnet.com)

CreativFestival 2010

2010-07-17T07:43:00.003-04:00

CreativFestival in Toronto is just 3 months away. The advertising has appeared in several magazines and the booklet listing all the classes will be out in the next few days. There are dozens of classes listed for quilting, sewing, knitting, beading, scrapbooking and more.

Be sure to check out the CreativFestival Blog. There is information about all the classes being offered as well as pictures of the projects. There is also a short bio of all the teachers. What a talented group of people!

Here are pictures of some of the techniques for the classes I will be teaching. Kits are available for each class and sewing machines are provided in the classrooms. You just need to show up ready to sew, learn and have some fun!

Memory Quilts & More: You will be learning how to incorporate photos and fusible applique (faux broderie perse) to create a unique memory quilt.

Wonky Squares, Stars & Strips: You will be making samples blocks of all 3 designs

Wonky Strips

Wonky Stars

Wonky Squares

Sparkling Flashes Show at Marianne Van Silfhout Gallery

2010-07-11T13:32:00.006-04:00

On Friday I attended the opening of Sparkling Flashes, a multi-media juried show currently being held at the Marianne Van Silfhout Gallery at St. Lawrence College in Brockville. 2 of my friends (and former students) had pieces in this wonderful show. The show is running until August 9. Be sure to stop by if you are in the area.

Sunset Tapestry by Pat Lemaire

10" x 63"

Fabric, Fibre and Thread

A Leaf Has Many Stems by Catharina Breedyk Law

38" x 47"

Fabric, Beads. Oil Sticks, Stencilling, and Bead Work

Happy Canada Day from Brockville, Ontario

2010-07-01T21:03:00.006-04:00

Colour party from the Brockville Legion

City of Brockville Pipe Band on Court House Avenue

The Brockville Re-Enactors (The Brockville Infantry Company 1862)

The crowd on Court House Green

The ceremonies begin

Mayor Henderson cuts the Canada Day cake

New Patterns, Kits and Panels

2010-06-24T19:17:00.007-04:00

I have just added several new items to the What's New page on my website. Click here to see them.

I now have the pattern, Girlfriends panel by Jody Houghton and kits for both of these wall quilts.

Here is my new pattern, Posie Patch. The quilt is 81" x 101" and uses the new flannel collection by Northcott called Rosie Posie. Click here for more information.

My friend, Dyane, created this great tote bag and together we wrote the pattern for it. The pattern, Earth Blessing panel and kit are now all available. Click here for more information.

Sneak Preview of Art in the City Studio Tour

2010-06-18T19:35:00.005-04:00

Today the artists participating in the Art in the City studio tour visited each other's locations for a sneak preview of the show. What a treat is waiting for our visitors this weekend! Click here for more information about the studio tour. Here are pictures of just a few of the artists' works.

Bags by Linda Potter

Quilt by Linda Potter

A few of my memory quilts

Paper and Fabric Collage by Heather Savage

More of my quilts

Another quilt by Linda Potter

Opening of the Gallery Show for Art in the City

2010-06-12T17:08:00.003-04:00

Here I am at the MVS Gallery opening at St. Lawrence College, Brockville. This was the kick-off event for the Art in the City studio tour next weekend. Fellow fibre artist, Linda Potter (centre) and Brockville painter, Deborah Glew, were also enjoying the festivities. You can learn more about the studio tour here.

Dark circles under my eyes, but no glasses and I can actually see what is going on!

What a Week!

2010-06-10T15:45:00.005-04:00

The painters arrived last Friday and stripped the wallpaper from 2 bedrooms and sanded and refinished one floor. The painting is almost finished and the furniture that is now everywhere upstairs can soon be put back.

I had cataract surgery on Tuesday and Thursday and now have 2 new eyes! Hopefully they will start to work together again soon.

This week I also finished designs for 3 new fabric collections from Northcott.

Friday, June 11 is the opening of the Art in the City Studio Tour show at the Marianne Van Silfhout Gallery at St. Lawrence College in Brockville. For those of you who are in the area, please stop by from 5 - 7 pm to meet the artists on the tour, have a sneak preview of their work and enjoy some delicious munchies.

Next week I have to organize my quilts for the Art in the City Tour and get them ready to hang at the Brockville Museum. The studio tour is from 10 - 5 on Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20. Please stop by and say hello! I will be sharing the Museum space with basket maker, Gwyn Marriott and bird carvers, Bob Orr and Ray Tourangeau. There are 26 artists working in a variety of styles and mediums located in various studios throughout the city of Brockville.

And then I think I will take a rest!

New Blog for CreativFestival

2010-05-31T13:05:00.006-04:00

CreativFestival will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto from October 22 - 24, 2010. The catalogues listing all the classes and special events will be ready in July. I will be teaching 2 classes at this event: Wonky Stars, Strips & Squares and Memory Quilts & More.

Be sure to check out the new CreativFestival Blog to find all the latest news about this event.

My Neighbours at Quilt Market

2010-05-27T16:36:00.011-04:00

Here are some pictures of fellow pattern designers at Quilt Market

This is the Quilters' Clutter booth. Shauna Case is from Alberta and does wonderful pattern designs.

Here are Deirdre and Leonie all the way from Australia. More great pattern designers!

Helen Stubbings is from Tasmania in Australia.

Daphne Greig (partner of Susan Purney-Mark of Patchwork Studios) is from Vancouver Island.

Quilt Market in Minneapolis: Set-Up Day

2010-05-27T15:36:00.006-04:00

Here is my empty booth in Minneapolis.

And here it is after all the quilts were hung.

Set-up day is always exciting but stressful. Everything is all over the place. It was very hot and the air conditioning was not on. But everyone coped with the situation and got the job done. Here is a typical view of one of the aisles.

How Sweet It Is!

2010-05-16T11:20:00.004-04:00

I have finished my "How Sweet It Is!" pattern, just in time for Quilt Market in Minneapolis next week. Now I only have to get everything packed in the suitcases and I am ready to go! Here is a sneak preview of the new pattern cover.

International Quilt Market in Minneapolis

2010-05-13T07:04:00.005-04:00

The Ottawa quilt show is over - and a great show it was! The weather was cold and wet and we had crowds of people at the show on all 3 days.

I leave for Minneapolis and the International Quilt Market next week. I still have one pattern to write. Hopefully it will be finished in time. The pattern is called "How Sweet It Is!". Here is a sneak preview of the 3 little quilts in the pattern. The "sweet" hanger is from Ackfeld. The photos in these quilts are removable so you can change them whenever you like. This pattern is the latest addition to my Pop-Out Picture Quilt series.

Quilt Show in Ottawa

2010-05-04T11:25:00.004-04:00

I am now unpacking from the Quilt Canada show in Calgary and re-packing for the show in Ottawa this weekend. If you are in the area, be sure to stop by and visit.

The Common Thread Quilt Guild is presenting their semi-annual quilt show at the RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive in Ottawa, Ontario. The show hours are:

Friday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 8 from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Click here for more information about the Guild and the show.

EQ 7

2010-05-01T09:44:00.002-04:00

The Electric Quilt Company has just announced the release of EQ7. This quilt design program will be released in June. Click here for more information about this great program.

I will be getting a sneak preview of EQ7 at Quilt Market in Minneapolis at the end of May. Watch for more information coming soon!

Quilt Canada in the Snow

2010-04-30T09:39:00.003-04:00

Here are some of our neighbours at the Quilt Canada Merchants' Mall.

More From Quilt Canada

2010-04-30T06:55:00.000-04:00

I am in the Quilters' Connection Magazine booth along with editor, Heather McArthur. Here are a couple of views of our booth as we were finishing up on set-up day.

Greetings from Quilt Canada

2010-04-29T09:46:00.003-04:00

I am in cold and snowy Calgary for the Quilt Canada conference. The quilt shows are amazing (although I have only had a brief glance at them) and the visitors are an enthusiastic group of quilters. There are 60 vendors in the Merchant Mall and we certainly had a busy first day yesterday.

Here is the view out the window this morning.

More pictures and information coming soon!

Quilt Canada in the Calgary Herald Newspaper

2010-04-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

It seems that Quilt Canada has made the front page of the Calgary Herald. Click here to read all about it!

Opposites Attract: A new table topper and placemat set

2010-04-24T09:48:00.004-04:00

My new "Opposites Attract" pattern has instructions for 2 table toppers and a placemat set. You can see more information on the What's New page on my website.

I will be at Quilt Canada in Calgary next week. Please stop by and say hello if you are attending the show.

Paws and Claws: The Pattern is Ready!

2010-04-21T08:42:00.003-04:00

The quilting is finished and the pattern is published! Just in time for Quilt Canada next week. Grace Whiting of Ottawa did a great job of quilting the large quilt. This pattern will be on my website soon.

Paws and Claws (the small version) 25" x 25"

Paws and Claws (the large version) 48" x 48"

Sneak Preview: Opposites Attract

2010-04-15T12:03:00.006-04:00

My Opposites Attract pattern will be printed next week, just in time for Quilt Canada in Calgary. This pattern has instructions for 2 different table toppers and a placemat set. I used fusible applique for the flowers so this is a quick and easy project. More pictures coming soon!

Clothes (Fabric?) Washing in Another Era

2010-04-10T08:08:00.004-04:00

Aren't you glad you don't have to use one of these when doing your laundry?

This item was sold recently at an auction in Ontario. It is a New Home Horse Shoe Brand Folding Bench Floor-Standing Clothes Wringer.

It stands 47-1/2" tall and the sides fold down on each side for your laundry tubs.

Another New Pattern

2010-04-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another top ready to be quilted. This design will be a new pattern that will be available later in the spring. The flower blocks were cut from a panel by Northcott. I haven't got a name for this pattern yet. Any suggestions?

Paws and Claws

2010-03-30T18:27:00.003-04:00

Here is a sneak preview of my newest pattern, Paws and Claws. I used die-cut applique shapes so it went together very quickly. The top is going to be quilted this week and the pattern is almost ready. Watch for it on my website soon!

Textile Workshop

2010-03-21T09:15:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I attended a textile workshop with Janet Carlile from Ottawa, Ontario. Janet has lectured throughout the United Kingdom and Canada and has appeared as an expert on the Canadian Antiques Roadshow. Janet's presentation yesterday was about 19th and early 20th century textiles. What a fascinating collection she has!

We saw samplers, quilts, coverlets and wool work. I was particularly fascinated with this needlework sample book from 1932. The student had been enrolled in a needlework course in 1932 in England and had described in great detail all the techniques she was learning. There was a sample of each technique included in the book.

Needlework book cover

Front page of needlework book with the maker's name and address

Samples of techniques

Applique sample

Quilter's Connection Magazine

2010-03-20T07:49:00.004-04:00

I just received the latest copy of the Quilter's Connection magazine. What a great publication this is! This is just the third issue of the magazine and each one has been better than the one before. This Canadian publication is now available at Chapters and I am sure it will continue to grow in popularity. Congratulations to editor Heather McArthur for continuing to promote the Canadian quilt scene!

Peeling Potatoes

2010-03-10T09:41:00.004-05:00

This has absolutely nothing to do with quilting, but I thought it was a pretty good tip if you ever have to peel potatoes. I haven't tried it yet, but will let you know if it really works!

Click here to watch the video.

The Quilt

2010-03-07T07:25:00.003-05:00

One of our local weekly newspapers, The Brockville Voice, had a great little article on quilts and how they affect our lives. It was written by Catherine Cavanagh and can be seen here. Scroll down to page 5 and read the column called Soul Side. I am sure many of us can relate to Catherine's story.