Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Bits and Pieces

I can see it is going to be a busy week. School holidays have started for my son and he will be home for three long weeks. The weather is cool - dank and overcast which really does not help in terms of entertaining them. I find that if I keep myself busy whilst the teens are home, they too will occupy themselves.

I have spent some time practising my free-motion quilting. I cannot believe how much thread I have used, not only have I used all the left-over bits of bobbin thread that were in my drawer, but more, much much more!

I have come a long way with free motion quilting, but still need some more practise. This just does not come naturally to me. I still need to learn how to navigate my way around the quilt rather than getting stuck in a corner with no way out!

I have also prepared a little care package for a blogger friend. Mel from From Little Things has just experienced a great loss, one that I am sure many women can readily identify with. Please go and read her moving post. Mel is also getting ready to make her first quilt.


And my swap fabric posted in Sunday Stash - Urban Chicks (Paint by Number - Birds) is on its way to Washington!

Of course, a little sewing has taken place as well. Here is a sneak peak at what I have been working on:


Some fun blocks made up at random. I hope to make several of these and then piece them together using some bold white sashing fabric.

So much I want to do, so little time.
Posted by Red Pepper Quilts - Rita Hodge
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15 comments:

  1. AnonymousJune 23, 2009 5:29 PM

    Loving those random blocks Rita! Those colours are alive!!!

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  2. One Flew OverJune 23, 2009 5:30 PM

    Your free motion quilting looks really good, surely not too much pratice time to go. I love the new blocks you are working on.

    What a sweet and thoughtful friend you are. Mel's quilt is going to look sensational.

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  3. MelJune 23, 2009 6:14 PM

    Oh Rita thank you soooo much! You are so generous. Crikey I hope this quilt ends up looking ok ;)

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  4. sweet emmelieJune 23, 2009 6:47 PM

    Looking good that free motion. Its something I have to practise... one of these days.
    Thanks for that link, brings a tear to the eye. I think Mel's quilt will look stunning and the fact that it has such a personal feeling to it is something ever so special.

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  5. Julie @ Jaybird QuiltsJune 23, 2009 8:59 PM

    practice your movements on a piece of paper with a pencil. You'll be amazed at how it will begin to teach your hands how to move.

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  6. UnknownJune 23, 2009 9:25 PM

    Practicing quilting is the best way to improve your skills. But it looks like you have a good handle on it. What a sweet friend you are to Mel. I went over and read her post, I am so sorry for her loss and really can't put my thoughts into words. It is a tough time and I think that you will be helping to ease and comfort her. I do love the blocks that you have made, beautiful.

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  7. Me? A Mom?June 23, 2009 10:49 PM

    I love your blog and quilts. It brings me comfort that someone like you who can make such amazing quilts doesn't find free motion easy! I'm still working on it myself. I box myself in as well.

    By the way, your practice FMQ looks great!

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  8. wishes, true and kindJune 23, 2009 10:50 PM

    Love the random blocks! Can't wait to see what you're working on!

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  9. UnknownJune 23, 2009 10:53 PM

    Your quilting is lovely and those random blocks are going to be great .

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  10. heatherJune 23, 2009 10:56 PM

    Your stippling looks FANTASTIC!!!! I'm going to practice my straight line quilting. I think that's harder and less natural. I know that sounds crazy! I LOVE your new project!!!:) What's new I think I say that in every comment!:) Your blogger friend will love her new fabric.:) Have a great day!

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  11. AllisonJune 24, 2009 1:59 AM

    Your free motion looks great! It does take some practice, but its so fun once you get the hang of it, its a good stress reliever! Love your new blocks teaser too! -Allison

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  12. LeslieJune 24, 2009 2:22 AM

    your free motion looks great...i love how the multi colored thread works on the white...what a sweet package to send to a friend.

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  13. sarahJune 24, 2009 2:25 AM

    i found your blog via flickr...
    your quilts are SO LOVELY! you've inspired me to try making my very first quilt - it will be a nine patch. right now i'm just having fun finding fabrics - i hope i can actually sew it when the time comes ;)

    thanks for the inspiration!

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  14. UnknownJune 24, 2009 4:11 AM

    Time -- yes! I wish there was an extra day in the week were the kids only sleep, so I can do stuff :) Your free-motion looks great, as do the new blocks!

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  15. Nanette MerrillJune 24, 2009 7:35 AM

    Everything at Red Pepper is so inspiring and eye candyish.

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