Two Tip Tuesday – Picnic Quilts

Posted on July 2, 2024 by debbiewendt

The 4th of July is just a day away. How will you celebrate Independence Day if you are here in the USA? Fireworks? How about a picnic? Do you have a quilt designated to use as a picnic quilt? I made the Shoo Fly Picnic pattern just for that reason. A quilt that has grommets to “nail it” to the ground on top of a tarp. PERFECT to keep the quilt from the grass, dirt and dew!! The quilt is below. Note the grommet in the bottom right corner. And a few other pictures to show the tarp.

It is a great size, easy block to assemble and fun to play with lights and darks to make the Shoo Fly block stand out. Leave off the grommets and you have a perfect throw quilt. The pattern can be found HERE. A closer look below at the grommets and the tent stake I use to keep the quilt on the tarp and in place.

Today was about getting my bread machine working again. I used to make bread all the time when we lived in Egypt. I’ve not made bread for a long time and decided …. if we are eating bread, it might as well be healthy (no preservatives). Light Wheat! So… the question of the day….Do I piece or do I bake? Baking won and so easy with the bread machine.

The quilts below are all made from one of my patterns. The patterns are available on my website. Red, White and blue fabrics make wonderful quilts especially to celebrate the USA!

Hexie Fun Placemats and Mug Rug

Brilliant Swirl

R-W-B Boise

Make quilts or bread!! Today was bread, tomorrow quilts.

Tips: #1 – Find an “old” or “new” quilt to enjoy as a picnic quilt or for chillin’ in the shade!

#2 – If you enjoy cooking and quilting, do BOTH! Find time for the thing you enjoy.

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – More Finishes

Posted on June 25, 2024 by debbiewendt

I love finishes….I believe I said that last week. I’m thrilled to present more student finishes from guild workshops I taught this past year.

First up…. Flat Mat Bag. This is Lori L. and her Flat Mat Bag. She “purposely” turned one of the straps and we liked the sidestep to a unique finish. Both side of her quilted fabric is represented in her straps! Great job Lori! Her comment, “I love it!” It looks classy with the gold accents. I love it, too!

Second… Sylvia S. finished her R-W-B Boise quilt. No red, white and blue here! The colors are so bright and cheerful! Her friend has named this “the jimmy buffet quilt”. A great name for this colorful finished quilt. The quilting was done by a local longarmer, Pam Machamer. (“local” is just over the line in Connecticut, Twin Maples Quilting Studio) Nice quilting! Great job all ’round!

Third…. This quilt was not done in a workshop, but is one of my patterns! Linda L. found these wonderful fabrics to give Toolin’ Around an up-to-date look. I love how she used a couple fabrics in two colorways. It has a calm sweetness! Well done Linda!

Keep those photos coming! I love to share finishes. The inspiration is awesome! Speaking of inspiration, how about this photo?

I took a Kayak Lesson on Saturday!! I have always wanted to know more about kayaking and this was the perfect way to spend my birthday money from my parents! I love water sports and spent many hours on Lake of the Ozarks in my younger years. Taking lessons gave me confidence and appreciation to learn safety and strokes of paddling. I believe a kayak may be in my future. My dear friend Kimmie wants to know when I’m going to paddle board…..maybe soon my friend.

I LOVE all the bright colors of the Kayaks! Yes, still on land….but we were soon on the pond and having fun! I got the bright lime green one for the day!

Where do you find inspiration? In the past, I’ve posted flowers in the spring, snow covered trees in the winter, golden/orange/red leaves in the fall and now KAYAKS in the summer!

These tips are a great repeat…

#1 – Look to your surroundings for color inspiration in your quilts.

#2 – Send your instructors your finishes. We LOVE getting happy mail and photos!

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – A Finish

Posted on June 18, 2024 by debbiewendt

Quick look at a finish I missed posting last month. THANK YOU to Fran Bollinger for sending me photos of the quilt she made for her grandson. The quilt is from the pattern Fields of Brilliant Diamonds!! I sooooo enjoy seeing finishes by my students and customers! Fields of Brilliant Diamonds is one of my patterns that was designed using Brilliant Bindings as a cutting template. A great way to use Brilliant Bindings and focus on a theme fabric….PLUS a great quilt for a boy who loves baseball. (Any sports fabric would work beautifully with this pattern!)

I also made this quilt in brights from Shewshew fabrics from South Africa by Da Gamma Textiles. I love the vibrant colors and how different fabrics can change the look of a quilt. These fabrics are 100% cotton and 35″ wide. Pre-washing is necessary to get them to the wonderful feel they are known for. If you ever run across them…say yes! Once washed they have a wonderful “hand”. With the fabric only 35″ wide, just purchase more that the pattern requires. They are worth it! The Shewshew pink/orange/purple and white quilt is below on the right!

It is a bit ironic that I am writing this post as we learn of the passing of Willie Mays. One of the greatest baseball players of all time. He was 93 years old. What an amazing life, player and icon in the baseball world. My husband is a huge baseball fan and we watch a LOT of baseball. I am a fan of most sports, so designing this quilt focusing on baseball fabric was almost a given in my mind. I hope you find fabric that makes you smile, just like Mr. Mays did in every clip of his phenomenal plays on the field.

Tip #1 – One of my favorite sayings I say in almost every class and at every quilt show ….BOYS like quilts, too!! Find the fabrics that work for them! Sports, colors, mascots, etc.

Tip #2 – Use colors and fabrics you like and that fit the personality or theme.

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Stitching Applique

Posted on June 12, 2024 by debbiewendt

I’m getting back to an “old” project and it involves machine applique. I’ll go into more detail of how I got to this point at another time. Today (well yesterday for some), I want to focus on the actual stitching of this applique. I did some test samples of the zigzag stitch I wanted to use. After the test, I started stitching. I could do a blanket/button hole stitch, but I’m taking the faster route with the zigzag. Back to stitching…

How do I remember what stitch width and length is the favorite for this project? I took a picture. I could write it down, but trying to reduce a piece of paper that might get misplaced. Ummmm, yes I’ve done this before and lost that little slip of paper. HA! Not this time, it is on my phone and now here on my blog so I can get back to it!

My thread choice is “Microquilter” by Superior Threads (no affiliate to Superior, just a fan!). I haven’t used this thread before and it was suggested my friend by Linda Gosselin. She uses it for micro quilting when she wants the thread to be non-descript. I thought it would be a good choice for stitching over several different blues and not have to change threads.

I found the tread almost disappeared on some of the fabrics and barely showed on others. Check out the two circles below.

And here is a closeup of the stitching. Hard to see!!

Tip #1 – Take a photo of the stitch you are using….especially if it not the default setting.

Tip #2 – Find a thread that disappears in your fabrics. Or if you want it to show, be bold and use a thread that contrasts.

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Graduation/Awards/Quilt

Posted on June 4, 2024 by debbiewendt

It is the time of year where so many seniors take their walk across stage to receive their diplomas and make those next steps into thoughts for their future! I have had the honor of being called “Aunt” (yes, very midwest, think “ant”) by my dear friends daughter. When you live far from family, like we do, it is nice to be included into a local family. It has been a privilege to watch Hannah all these years. Now graduation, honors, a scholarship (from her mom and my quilt guild!!), and making university decisions. PLUS a QUILT from me, her “Aunt” Debbie. See, she has an Auntie Deb. So my midwest claim to “Aunt” worked well.

I asked Hannah at the awards ceremony what her current favorite color was…Deep Burgundy Red! So off to one of my local quilt shops (Appletree Fabrics) in Auburn to make my fabric purchases. I found two that went perfectly together. One is Batik, the other is not. NO problem in my book! I know some of you will shudder at the idea of not putting all batiks in the one quilt, but I’m totally fine with it when they work well together!!! I used my favorite design of a strippy quilt (it goes together so fast) and quilted the Feather Strippy Bar pantograph by Kathie James. This is my go to for graduation quilts and I have done several over the years! The strips are cut 7 1/2″ wide x the length you want the quilt. Arrange in the order you prefer and you have a quilt top in a couple hours. I based my number of strips by what be a good width for a Cuddle Minky backing. Plus, I like to roll the Cuddle to the front for a back to front binding for a yummy soft edge. The outside strips were cut 5 1/2″. I added Hobb’s 80/20 batting since it is lightweight and will add that quilty feel. The fabrics were purchased on Wednesday and the quilt given on Saturday, with a bunch of breaks and meals. YES, it is that fun and fast to make. So, here is the result…

I love the definition of the quilting on the Cuddle backing and a luxurious Cuddle binding edge!

A back to front binding is so easy, just a bit time consuming. I used a serpentine on my Janome and a wooden skewer to keep tabs of the nap of the cuddle at the edge of the Cuddle. The serpentine looks much nicer than a zigzag and a bit dressier than a straight stitch.

Why a wooden skewer? It helped “grab” the nap of the Cuddle. Plus if I hit it with the needle, it has some give and the needle would not break. Sure the needle could break, but the wood skewer is much softer than a metal stiletto.

The back to front sewn miter corners are a favorite to make.

  1. Draw a line at a 45 degree angle to the edge of the binding at the corner of the quilt top. My Brilliant Bindings tool works perfectly by placing the 45 angle edge of the tool along the outside edge of the binding. I did leave 1″ of backing beyond the quilted top.
  2. Fold the quilt diagonally right sides together at the corner and match up the drawn line. Pin in place
  3. Stitch on the drawn line and trim seam allowance.
  4. Use your thumb at the corner to turn the sewn miter around the corner.
  5. Gently push corner out.
  6. And arrange into place!

As, I said above….I love making these strippy quilts and back to front bindings! I hope you found some tips in my steps of sharing my process.

My focused tips from above…

#1 – Try using Batiks and regular cottons together, especially if they are perfect for each other!

#2 – The extra wide width of Cuddle (58″-60″) makes a great backing (and binding). Not only do you only need one piece of fabric, but the Luxe Cuddle is so amazing soft and not difficult to work with.

The biggest takeaway…

They grow up so fast….enjoy every second!! Hannah I am so proud of you!!!

in love and quilting,

Aunt Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Fun with Foam

Posted on May 28, 2024 by debbiewendt

After a whirlwind week in Kansas City and a quick trip to Texas, it is time to get caught up on some projects. First, staying with my “F” theme….Fun with Foam. I am prep-ing a quilted piece but instead of batting, I’m using FOAM. I love the definition it gives and the soft stability it has. There are several on the market and I’m using Soft and Stable for this project. I used my walking foot to keep all layers moving together. A walking foot or even feed foot is great to keep one layer from shifting ahead of another layer when quilting. Here is what the foam looks like in the “quilt sandwich”…

AND my walking foot in action when quilting the lines. Notice, I’m FOLLOWING (another “F”!) the lines of the design in the fabric. No need to do anything fancy for this bag. Now I’ve FINISHED quilting and ready for the next steps!

I’m making an “Alpen Belt Bag” by Center Street Quilts. I purchased the pattern online as a pdf. (no affiliation, I love the simplicity of this bag!) Yes, I, too buy patterns. Even though I design patterns, I still purchase patterns! I love supporting other pattern designers. I’m looking forward to getting the orange webbing I ordered for the belt/strap!

Tip #1 – A walking foot or even feed foot or built in feed system really helping in keeping your layers even when quilting!

Tip #2 – Give FOAM a try instead of batting. It is great for items that need a bit more stability!

Tip – Bonus – FOLLOW lines on your fabric as your quilting design. Simple lines can be very relaxing to quilt. ALSO, When quilting lines, I always try to quilt in the same direction each time. I don’t go down and back. One way helps keep the fabric smooth and not “ripple” back and forth.

Question – FEEDBACK needed… Should I sell my patterns as Pdf patterns on my website. Do you like the instant gratification of printing at home? Or would you rather purchase a printed version and I mail it to you? I’d love to get your input.

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Honors and Gifts

Posted on May 21, 2024 by debbiewendt

First…HONORS…I got to be a part of an amazing weekend by being inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Yes, really!! My high school, Hickman Mills High School in Kansas City, Missouri had an amazing girl’s sports program. I was the manager/trainer for basketball, volleyball and track. Our HMHS girl’s basketball teams were outstanding. From 1977-1980 the girls won 3 state titles in 4 years. Their record was 105 – 10!!! The first year after the passing of Title IX our girl’s sports programs were a powerhouse of talent. Our mascot was the Cougars and we quickly became Cougar Sisters. These girls were my friends on and off the court! My very own sister, Kathy, was the statistician for basketball besides running track.(she is pictured below with me!) The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame recognized our basketball program and I got to attend the enshrinement ceremony this past weekend in Kansas City! We were well represented with 30 of our teammates and coaches. Plus parents, family, classmates and fans. I believe we had over 130 in attendance!!! I’ll put some photos below! I did some quick math and I taped over 1000 ankles during the 2 years I was the manager/trainer for the girls!

I realize this has nothing to do with quilting, but it was a HUGE part of my life. Many of us have stayed in contact after all these years being near and far. These are the people that taught me dedication, determination, love of sports and to practice and work for what you want!!

The write up below is about the teams! I’m next to the assistant coach on the far left and in the middle with the ball in the photo after a state win!

I made key fobs to give to each of these wonderful people. I wanted them to have something they could use every day that would bring a smile and sense of pride…..Cougar Pride!! The basketball ribbon was perfect for the fobs. Of course, being orange/black/white fit right in with our school colors. (yes, I realize basketballs are orange…but hey!)

I’ll share the STEPS of how I made the key fobs. I hope you can pick up some tips and inspiration. I’m still so excited about my weekend at “home”!!!! There are not enough exclamation points and words of excitement to describe the JOY and PRIDE I feel for my Cougar Sisters!

1 – I used 12″ of webbing and stitched the same length of ribbon onto the webbing down both edges. I did melt the ends of the webbing and ribbon so they would not fray.

2 – Add a split ring to one end and fold so the ends meet near the split ring. About a 1″ down from the fold. With a wide zigzag, stitch across the butted ends to join.

3 – Make a “sleeve” from cotton fabric. I folded a 2 1/2″ wide strip in thirds and stitched a seam making it wide enough to slide over the end loop. Position the sleeve over the zigzag join.

4 – Stitch through all layers to hold the sleeve in position.

5 – Add another split ring the the ring of the fob and you are finished. A great gift or swag for any occasion!

In gratitude to the MSHOF for the honor our COUGAR SISTERS, Coaches, Managers and Statisticians received. And amazing appreciation, support and thanks to the parents, family members, booster club, supportive students, faculty and fans of the Hickman Mills High School community…COUGAR PRIDE! I am so blessed my parents could be a part of this event and day!!

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Twirl-A-Tool workshop

Posted on May 14, 2024 by debbiewendt

A BIG thank you to Merrimack Valley Quilters Guild! I spoke at the guild last week on Egyptian Tentmakers’ Applique and then did a workshop on Saturday on Twirl-A-Tool. I had a great time! I had a surprise guest at the meeting! My friend Shari came to the meeting because it was close to her (she moved to NH a few years ago). A GREAT treat! [Stay connected with your quilty buds!] Then on Saturday we had a wonderful class. I had a room full. I got a quick photo at the end of class after several had packed up. Sorry I didn’t get everyone in the photo. They did a great job and we had a lot of laughs. Thank you ladies!

An AH HA moment happened with marking the sewing line when sewing triangles to a straight edge. I love those moments in class!! See the steps below. They decided it was well worth the time to make a 1/4″ line to get everything lined up correctly. YAY!

Mark the 1/4″ seam line when sewing an angle piece to a straight piece. This is very similar to sewing continuous binding strips together.

Marked seam line will cross the edge of bottom piece.

Sew seam and when finished there will NOT be a jump in the edges. Everything aligns perfectly!

Tip #1 – It pays to mark! Plus it saves time in the long run when you don’t have to keep ripping out and re-doing. mark it the first time.

Tip #2 – Your Brilliant Bindings is a great making tool! It has 1/4″ lines!

The Twirl-A-Tool pattern and Brilliant Bindings are both available on my website!

Did you see that Houston’s International Quilt Festival have announced their teachers for the Fall show? I’m happy and honored to teach again this year. For those who have been asking….Machine Sewn Bindings is the class! Keep watch for when registration opens.

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Storage and Fabric Stash

Posted on May 7, 2024 by debbiewendt

Spring is for sorting and organizing. Or so it should be. I’ve cleared out a bunch from my closet, now it is time to dig into my fabric/sewing items/notions. I love “Busting a Move on my Stash”!! I talk about this with my patterns and tools at my Learning Center demo/talks. I focus on using a variety of fabrics from all kinds of fabric companies. More is always better! HOWEVER, my fabric needs going through. I have a lot of my stash in wire baskets.. . .see photo below. These baskets are from IKEA.

I have recently moved some of my fabric that was on open shelves in my basement to clear plastic bins. It is not ideal, but a good way to keep it clean and visible. Here are some of my bins… I’m not a fan of the gray bin in the photo. I can’t see into it. Use the CLEAR.

I’ve learned over the years to keep the bins smaller. Don’t get huge bins that you can’t lift when loaded with fabric!! I use the “shoe box” size for specific projects (if they fit). (This is an old photo. <grin>)

Sewing Room Cabinets

It is the letting go that is the problem. So, how small of scraps do you save? I used to save it all. Now, if it is smaller than a couple inches, it goes bye-bye.

Tip #1 – When clearing out and using up your stash, it is not a sad day. It is a good day because you can buy more fabric. Not that you need an excuse or permission, but I just gave it to you!

Tip #2 – Buy see through bins or wire baskets. Easy to see into!!

Now, I need to take my own advice and start digging through those bins and baskets and organize. New fabric is calling my name! <wink>

in quilting,

Debbie

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Two Tip Tuesday – Show Finish

Posted on April 30, 2024 by debbiewendt

From the beginning of my trip to Paducah, chasing the sun…

…to an unexpected finale of a CAMEL around the corner from our Airbnb! It summed up my excitement of a great week.

A great time at AQS Quilt Week in Paducah, KY! My friend Nancy Hinds and I had some long days in the booth and lots of hours demo-ing. But, the best part….the quilters! We really enjoyed talking and sharing and talking and sharing. I began the second hour of the show in the Learning Center with Patterns and Tools to BUST a Move on Your Stash. I added more teaching during the show as well. I taught in both All-Star Reviews with 10 minute “how to tips”, first on Bindings and then the second session on Hexies. My lecture was so amazing. I was thrilled to present Bindings – A World of Options to 166 students, so close to being sold out. My Done by Three class had incredible results with the students ready to cut, sew and boy did they sew! The room was buzzing with activity and finished blocks!! The photos below are just a few of the student’s blocks. Most got away before I got a chance to take more photos.

Thank you one and all! I’m looking back and smiling at a GREAT week in Paducah, KY!! I just did a quick estimate of blocks in the top right photo…there are 27 blocks….in 3 hours…WOW!

Tips….

#1 – I’ve mentioned classes are fun to take. I had several groups of friends taking the Done by Three class together. But my favorite comments…..”We had so much fun!” Also, “We made new friends and have vowed to take a class together next year!” A teacher couldn’t ask for a better outcome!

#2 – Chocolate, always chocolate! Nancy and I shared a bag of Dark covered coconut almond bites that we managed to make last all week. The struggle was real!

in quilting,

Debbie

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