The effect of a frame

Sometimes a frame can make all the difference in the world. These two little trees measure about 6×4 each. Finishing them as miniature quilts was a possibility, but they really needed something that would a) make them bigger, b) accentuate their elegance in a minimalist way and c) protect them from the forces of nature [...]

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Making progress

I have learned, through trial and grievous error, that it is a mistake to attempt critical or integral portions of work while really ill. It is also a mistake to do any work that might seriously injure you (i.e. using chemicals or blades) while sick. So for the past several days, I’ve really not accomplished [...]

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New pages

I’ve just added a couple of static pages to this blog. the first is a small gallery of my recent work and the second is a ditty on how to care for your textile art. The former will be updated as work transpires. The latter is intended only as a brief guideline to customers. For [...]

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Safety Conundrum & Regulations Run-around

Every year that I have been in the Newfoundland & Lab. Craft Council Christmas Craft Fair, I’ve had queries from people who wanted to know if I made baby quilts.
I have, in fact, made baby quilts. In recent years, I’ve been focussing my energies on decorative textiles rather than functional ones. Also, I’ve typically found [...]

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Sidetracked. Feedback, please!

Okay, I’ve just about got everything ready for the show. Only one piece still being quilted and another that I can do if time allows. So I’m in good shape, despite having been virtually comatose yesterday with a horrid cold. A pox on the generous soul who gave it to me.
As is usually the way [...]

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Dryer sheets – texture for textiles!

I just finished the binding on “Cumbria”, below. The picture isn’t quite squared, as I was trying to finish up before the toddler woke up, but you get the idea.

The rocks were giving me a small bit of grief, because I just couldn’t get the effect for which I was looking. Then I remembered the [...]

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Supplies listing

I have finally gotten around to starting the “Supplies” page for this blog. I’ve been meaning to do it for some time now and now it’s done. Or at least started. It should be on-going; as I get more sources and information, I’ll update it.
It’ll probably only be really useful to those living in my [...]

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Sewing machine needle warning

I just realised abruptly that there’s another reason to buy GOOD machine needles.
Good needles have a point of controlled breakage, just above the eye. If the needle must snap, it does so at that point. The shank is left in the shaft and the piece with the eye is attached to the thread (unless the [...]

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Pins and needles

One of the secrets that I’ve learned over the years is that my frustration level in sewing and construction aspect of my work is directly related to the pins, needles and other sharp objects used.
Sounds obvious, right?
Take the piece below (48″x 36″, or thereabouts). I basted it this morning in preparation for quilting. Because I’m [...]

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Responding to rhetorical questions

I believe that, technically, one isn’t supposed to respond to things labelled “rhetorical”, at least, not in polite company. Ryan has, however, asked some interesting questions and I feel, if not honour-bound to answer, then at least sufficiently interested to examine, them.
Let’s break it down.

Why do you do it? Why do you do what you [...]

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