Quilts In The Barn

Not much sewing, but some finishing off.

2012-02-23T09:17:00.001+11:00

Not a lot of sewing happening around here.

l did manage to finish off this quilt.

Remember back here, our Xmas exchange quilts?

l loved the one l made to swap so much,

l had to make myself one, so it's binding went on last week.

And l had a few blocks left over, so they became coffee mats.

These are great as gifts.

Most of my friends have them in their homes, but these ones are staying here.

This quilt has been finished for a while,

just waiting it's binding, so that went on last week as well.

Its so good to have some finishes.

l know there has been lots of talk on lots of blogs about leaving comments,

and the changes google have made to the word verification.

l love getting your comments, and while l don't always leave comments

when l have visited your blog, due to time restrictions on the computer,

l always love reading your comments when you do,

and truly appreciate that you take the time to continue to leave comments,

even if l don't on your blog.

So, having said that, l have turned off the word verification on my blog,

which should make it easier and less time consuming to leave comments,

because l know l am not the only person who is time short.

And l am hoping that it will also encourage me to take a minute

and leave more comments as l make my way round

all the blogs thatl love to visit and find inspiring.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

P.S. Watch out for a give away coming soon!!

Does this ever happen to you?

2012-02-13T18:34:00.001+11:00

So l had some free time to sew over the weekend and today, and decided the best use

of my time would be to clear out some more scraps. l find its hard

to get inspired for a large project when there is lots of clutter in my sewing room.

Does this ever happen to you?

l had a smallish pile of these hanging around, and not having a definite

idea of what to do, l went hunting on the web. l used google images

and looked for 4 patch quilts, hoping to find some inspiration.

Well, l did. About 3 different quilts.

That's fine, l should have enough to make 3 small quilts.

This one came together quite quickly, and after some advice from a trusted friend,

this is just going to get quilted and bound. Finished!!

Then a second photo that l had found inspiring, led me to make this block.

But something was not right. It was too heavy.

The reds were not making any kind of statement.

And when l placed a few blocks with the counterpane fabric,

l just knew l was on the wrong track.

Does this ever happen to you?

So, l went back to the start and made a block with the

opposite colorway, still using the 4 patch's.

That's better!!

But l knew that l didn't have enough of the shirting to make the 9 blocks l needed,

so l swapped the shirting for another.

Made a few more blocks, laid them out on the floor with the counterpane fabric,

stood back and said, Yes!!

Does that ever happen to you?

So, l finished making all the blocks l needed, and because the fabrics in

the 4 patches were all scrappy, l didn't play with them much,

just started sewing the quilt together.

l even considered putting a block the wrong way round. Usually l am happy

to have a humility block in there, but decided not to.

When l had counted the blocks to see l had enough, l forgot to remove the

one made with the different shirting, so it ended up in the quilt.

And l didn't even realise till the quilt top was pressed, back on the floor for a photo.

Funnily enough, it ended up in the middle.

So l guess l did put in my humility block, and didn't even realise.

Does that ever happen to you?

This is what l am moving onto next. And yes, l know what l am doing.

An image on Google Images inspired me.

l have to say, even with all the red and white l have been sewing lately,

l am still madly in love with it. l guess the Infinite Variety Exhibit in New York last year,

made more of an impact than even l realised.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Show and tell from CAG meeting.

2012-02-12T10:56:00.001+11:00

Spent a lovely day with the ladies at our Castlemaine Applique group meeting.

Managed to snap a few pics of the show and tell, and have them here to share.

First up is the hexi's l was working on. Not sure where l am heading with these,

and more than likely will end up as 2 separate quilts.

The pink and brown hexi's l bought pre-cut when on my trip to America, back in 2009,

so thought it time to do something with them, and the 2 on the black background are from Betsy Chutchians Crossroads to Texas range.

This delightful centre from Aunty Greens coverlet met with much admiration.

Sue-Anne from Buddy and Me, made the 3 1/2 hr trek to join us for the day,

and brought along her almost finished Dancing Dollies quilt.

Sue-Anne also had her finished Clam shell quilt, very pretty and soft.

Jan inspired us all with her applique centre.

This lady ( sorry, missed her name) had a delightful version of the Ann Daggs quilt.

Laurel brought along this charming Xmas globe quilt.

Another inspiring pieced quilt. Fabulous collection of fabrics in this one.

This lady is making her version of the basket quilt.

Gotta love that tiny dresden plate on the border.

They are about 3"finished.

Michelle had this stunning feathered star quilt to share.

Dorothy had her finished version of the Aunty Green's coverlet.

And also a strip of the Susan McCords trailing vines quilt she is making.

Alison had the start of her quilt guilds raffle quilt,

a strippy using 5 rows of these trailing vines

to be completed and raffled later in the year.

Well, that's all for today. l am off to my sewing room.

A day at home by myself, and hopefully no interruptions!!

Who knows what mischief l will get up to.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Just some little bits!

2012-02-10T07:27:00.000+11:00

Not much sewing happening here, but l do have some little bits to show you.

This delightful red house below is a treasured Christmas gift from a dear friend.

It looked super cute hanging on the tree,

and now its hanging all year round in my kitchen.

A few more houses to join my village.

And some postage stamp blocks l am making for a swap, that will run over 18 months.

55 blocks to be made by end of July. Think l can do that!!

It's been fun digging through my fabrics.

For those of you who have booked and are coming to

"A Gathering In The Barn" being held by the Quilted Crows,

here is a sneak peak at one of the projects you will be making.

Looks yummy!! Only 5 more weeks to wait.

If you had been thinking of coming, but not booked yet,

l know Friday is fully booked, but there are still a few spots

left for our Saturday gathering on the 17th March.

Looking forward to seeing you then if you are coming.

l am heading off tomorrow for our first Castlemaine Applique Group meeting for the year.

Hope to have some great show and tell next week.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Time Out Sewing at Sorrento.

2012-02-01T14:21:00.002+11:00

Some of my sewing pals joined me at Sorrento in January

for some well deserved Time Out Sewing.

There was a bit of this from Deb.

Some of this from Jill.

A few of these from Sandra.

A lot of this from Deb.

More of these from Sandra.

Some of this from Anne.

And a lot of these also from Anne.

We also do a fair bit of this!!

And a lot of this from all of us!!

You can't see it, but we are discussing something on the design wall.

It wasn't all sewing.

l had taken a refresher course in pasta making, so decided there was

no time like the present to show the girls how it's done.

Here we are all intent on getting that sheet of pasta perfect!!

And then turning it into fettuccine.

Which we hung on the clothes horse to dry till dinner time.

Here it is cooking.

Oh, boy!! Was it DELICIOUS!!

A simple sauce of home grown cherry tomato's, roasted with garlic, onions and basil.

A bunch of happy quilters!!

Thanks for a great week girls.

Remember these?

They became these blocks.

Then all these.

And finally this quilt.

Now l am not sure if l should do this!!

What do you think?

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Busy building houses from scraps.

2012-01-23T13:50:00.000+11:00

A new year and a new project.

Building Houses from Scraps to be exact.

It all started with these.

Then l put a stack of scraps in here,

and sorted them like this here.

and here.

l made my first house,

then my 2nd,

which quickly became 3.

Then 6.

As l was making them, l discovered a few things about building,

and so when l made these one's ,

l can see l have improved.

Now my small village has 8 houses, and l am keen to make more.

They are very addictive, and don't take all that long to make.

Besides, l have a ton of scraps, so can't stop yet!!

Many huge thanks to Jeanneke for sharing her house pattern with us.

Its not all house building.

There has been a bit of this as well.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Happy New Year 2012!!

2011-12-31T03:25:00.004+11:00

To all my loyal followers and occasional visitors,

may the year ahead be filled with much joy,

little sadness and many wonderful memories to treasure.

l am taking a little blogging break, as is my habit at this time of the year,

but rest assured, l will be back, refreshed and reinvigorated.

And with new quilting adventures to inspire!!

Thanks for your friendship this year.

And thanks for visiting.

Linda.

l have a thing for SANTA!

2011-12-23T10:50:00.001+11:00

My house is being taken over by Santa's!!
My Xmas tree is covered in them!!
Here is a small collection.

Lots of different resin Santa's.

l have a dozen's of different one's of these all over the tree.

Hand painted Santa's.

This one was bought in Austria.

Wood Santa's.

Glass Santa's.

Then we have the Santa candle holder.

A pewter Santa.

Hand made Santa's.

Candle Santa's.

Santa's bought at craft market's.

Hand stitched Santa's.

Santa Head's.

l even buy Christmas cards with Santa on them.

Then there is my collection of Jim Shore Santa's.

This is my kitchen dresser, full of Santa's.

And more Santa's here.

The lovely Santa at the back came home from Houston with me.

Even my girlfriends have got in on the act.

The blue, red and green Santa's were hand made for me as special gifts.

l treasure them!!

And last year Bev stitched this Santa for me. Another treasure.

l wonder what Santa will be added to my collection next?

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

P.S. Only 2 more sleeps till the REAL Santa comes!!!

Secret Christmas Sewing

2011-12-22T10:08:00.000+11:00

There has been some secret Christmas sewing going on around here,

and now that the last has been gifted, l can show you.

Remember back here l showed you the tree skirts l was making?

Well, here is the mini one, all quilted and bound. Its now living at my girlfriends house,

under one of her many, many Xmas trees!!!

My larger one is also quilted, ( thanks Deb) bound and under our tree.

l am so thrilled with it!! Our tree looks perfect in my eye's now.

Then l made a dozen of these,

and have slowly been gifting them to girlfriends.

l have about 4 left for myself. These measure 5"finished.

While l had the red and white out, l made 3 larger small quilts.

These are also living in their new homes now, the last being gifted today.

These measure about 12" finished.

Just perfect for a dolls bed, or to hang on the wall.

l was very tempted to keep one for myself!!

They look pretty cute all together.

Here they are with the mini tree skirt.

Its not all been gifting.

l have also received an early Christmas gift.

This charming framed stitchery from Bev.

Beautifully hand quilted, its very special.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Early birthday gift

2011-12-21T17:41:00.000+11:00

Lucky me!! Look what came in the mail last week.

An early birthday present from my dear friend Randi,

all the way from Norway. Almost to pretty to open!!

And look what was inside!!

A beautiful card, pack of fabrics and a Quiltmania diary for next year.

Randi writes, "these are to remind me of our upcoming trip to France next year in spring"

And they most certainly do!!"

Look how soft and pretty these fabrics are.

l know just what l am going to make with them, to take on our trip together!!

Thank you Randi!! l can hardly wait for your spring next year,

and look forward to our adventures together in France.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Christmas twister quilt and a bonus quilt!!

2011-12-15T08:47:00.000+11:00

Remember when l made Harpers twister quilt here?

Many of you asked how? And l promised soon!!

Yesterday l had a free day, so l decided now was the time.

Out came some Xmas fabrics and l whipped this one up.

Here is a tutorial showing how!!

First, l chose 16 different fabrics, and cut 7 1/2"squares from each.

You don't need to use this many fabrics, but l did.

You can see l alternated red and green.

Sew your 16 squares together in a pattern that pleases you.

Press well.

l then added a red border. l cut these border strips at 4 1/2".

Measure your top, cut strips to suit, then adding a strip to each side.

Now comes the magic. There is a ruler available on the market called twister,

but l converted an existing 4 1/2"ruler.

l drew black lines from the 3/4"line on either side to the opposite 3/4"mark.

Once l had drawn these lines, l covered them with sticky tape,

so they would not rub off. This does not affect the ruler.

Place the ruler, with the black lines lining up with your sewing seam lines,

and cut on all four sides. This is best done on the corner of a table,

with the quilt spread out on the table in front of you.

It can be tricky to get to each side, but persevere.

l found l could cut 3 sides, then needed to swap where l was standing.

Continue cutting across the top row. You can see here how they will look.

You can see the pinwheel blades starting to form.

Then give the cut blocks a slight twist to their new position.

Continue cutting rows.

Remember, these squares are now on the bias, and need to be handled carefully.

Once l have cut a block, l add it to its new position. If you left this till the end,

it would be like putting a jigsaw puzzle together.

You can see here, how the 4 lines line up with the stitching lines.

As you cut your blocks, you will find there is some big

chunks of fabric left over, but wait and see!!

Here are all the blocks cut and in their new positions.

Sew them together in rows, then sew the rows together.

l pressed each row in alternate directions to help with the seams nesting.

Now your centre is complete. Press well.

l decided to add a border.

l cut my strips at 4 1/2", adding to all 4 sides.

Now your top is complete. Quilt as desired.

Remember those left over scraps? l trimmed them up to 4 1/2"squares.

Again, remember they are on the bias, so be careful.

l then sewed them all back together, which is where we all started,

added a red border, then a larger 2nd border.

So from those 7 1/2"squares that you start with, you have 2 small Xmas quilts.

l hope this all makes sense, and you enjoy making a twister quilt and a bonus quilt.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Building Houses from Scraps

2011-12-10T12:24:00.003+11:00

See that new button l have over on the right? A little house?

Well, its a new sew-a-long, being run by Jeanneke over here.

The plan is to make a house every day for 366 days.

1 little bitty house, just 3" big.

Thats right. 1 house every day next year, 2012,

which just happens to be a leap year.

You can read here where it all started.

There are no rules, just guidelines.

Want to join in?

l am off to go through my scrap basket!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Edit- l have had a few inquiries how to join.
You need to visit Jeanneke at her blog
http://buildinghousesfromscraps.blogspot.com
send her an email to register, and on the 15th December,
we will all receive an email with the pattern.
Then the building can begin!!!

More christmas weekend sewing

2011-12-08T08:23:00.000+11:00

Does this happen to you? You make a quilt, and just can't throw

out those triangles that you cut off?

As l was making the Xmas tree skirt, the pile just got bigger.

Well, look what l did with those triangles!!

Waste not, want not.

l just love this little quilt, and while l am in no hurry to use it for Xmas decorations,

l think this one might be handquilted. To add to its loveliness!!

Then l started playing with more scraps. It seems they never end, and when

you turn your back, they invite their friends!! l started making some small square in

square blocks, got a little carried away, and ended up with this table runner.

Oh, for the love of red and white!

And while l was on a roll, l threw together this little doll quilt, with some more

scraps left over from another project.

So l achieved 2 things this sewing weekend. Cleared out some scraps,

and made several Xmas presents. Gotta be happy with that!!

All in all, a successful sewing weekend.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Christmas sewing

2011-12-06T17:34:00.000+11:00

In the crazy lead up to what is xmas, l had an unexpected opportunity to sew this weekend.

We had functions on Friday and Saturday evenings. And as my DH was

working on Saturday, an unheard of event in recent years, l decided that

there is no time like the present to get some xmas sewing done. So l took myself

into my sewing room on Saturday morning, and other than to eat and sleep, l didn't

come out till Monday afternoon. A very unexpected mini sewing retreat on my own.

First on the agenda was a skirt for our xmas tree. Our last one was nowhere to

be found, so a quick search on the net, and l found this pattern.

Just the quilting, and a little smart cutting, and this will be ready to go.

Go here to see some more examples.

l enjoyed making that one so much, l did some math with the pattern and made a mini one.

This will be a gift for a special person.

Here you can see the 2 together, which shows just how small the mini one is.

SO CUTE!!!

More red and white sewing to come in the next few days.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

A Gathering In The Barn 2012

2011-12-02T09:56:00.003+11:00

When we had The Quilted Crows ( Leonie and Dierdre) here in September for

Quilts In The Barn, we had so much FUN!!! l have known these girls for about 4 years,

and everytime we get together, our bond just strengthens.

This photo was taken at QITB 2011

So on our last day together in September, when Leonie and Dierdre proposed

A Gathering in the Barn 2012,

l jumped at the chance. Not only to spend more time with these 2,

but to bring their unique style of quilting, combining wool and fabric,

in a workshop, to the mainland.

This photo was taken at QITB 2011

If you click on the button on the right there, it will take you to all the

info you require to find out what the day will hold for you and

whats included. l just know we will have a great time.

Or go here for more info.

This photo was taken at Market 2011

Not only will you receive tuition and patterns to make 4 projects,

they will hold a trunk show of their latest designs, including some from their upcoming book.

l have seen some of these projects, and again, they are stunners.

This photo was taken at Market 2011

And even better news, part of the proceeds from the day

will be donated to Breast Cancer Research.

Bookings are filling fast, so if you don't want to miss out,

RUN, don't walk to your nearest phone, and call them pronto!!

You can come for just one day or both.

So gather up a friend or 2, or even your whole sewing group as some are doing,

and come along, have a great day with like minded quilty women.

Or maybe your family can buy you a great day out as a xmas present!!

If you know you are coming, and have a blog, feel free to take the button,

and add it to your blog. We want these days to be a huge success, cause if they are,

l just know we can get the girls back again, and again, and again!!!!

And that just means more quilty FUN!!!

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

Retreat at Sorrento!!

2011-11-29T07:45:00.001+11:00

We had such a wonderful weekend. For 2 days the sun shone, the weather was beautiful.

Then on Saturday, down came the rain and well, we didn't care!!

Cause we were busy sewing!!

Its wonderful spending time with these girls. We are like a well oiled group.

Opinions shared, jokes made, teasing, laughs and lots of sewing!!

Not to mention the food!!

This is a quilt Chris finished over the weekend.

She only had the borders to put on.

Its for her daughter's girlfriends 21st birthday.

Then Chris and l decided to make a jelly roll quilt,

using the method shown here.

This is the quilt Chris made, and it only took just over an hour.

Here is mine. l used a roll that was only 1 1/2"wide, so my quilt is smaller, more cot sized.

These were fun to make. My girlfriend, who has just bought a quilting machine,

will quilt these for practise, and we will donate them to a charity.

Here is Bev and Margaret, busy on their hand work.

Bev is appliqueing a border for her stunning pink and green pot of flowers quilt.

Margaret is making Inner city blocks. Forgot to take a photo when

she had them on the design wall. Sorry!!

Here is Chris, working on a new quilt. She is always busy.

Jill was working on a Chris Kringle project.

And sends a wave to Lynne, who is sure to be watching!!

While standing in line to have my book signed in Houston,

a Moda rep was handing out these samples packs of fabric.

So l had a play with them.

These are the 2 mini quilts l made using a different pack for each quilt.

Cute and fun!!

Friday night after dinner was time for our Xmas exchange.

Here are all the gifts waiting.

And here are 5 ( and the 6th behind the camera) happy smiling women with their quilts.

This is mine, made by Margaret.

This went home with Bev, made by Sandra.

This is Margaret's, made by Chris.

This is Christines, made by Bev.

This is Sandra's, made by Jill.

This is Jill's, made by me.

Here they are all together on the design wall. All stunning, all made using

Lori Smith fat quarter patterns

Bev also brought this quilt along. A past exchange, only just recently finished,

and now living at Chris's house. See the fingers top right for scale.

And Sandra had this to share. Another exchange in the next week or so.

Sandra has mastered small. The half square triangles are 1/4".

Wish this one was coming home with me!!!

l was also cutting for a new quilt. Red and white of course!!

Its for my daughters birthday, and as she might be looking,

this is all l can show you at the moment.

Chris was also busy with the rotary cutter, cutting, prepping and sewing

on 2 new quilts. Both red and white. This is the first.

A lone star, it will have applique in the outer corners when finished.

This is the centre for the 2nd.

It will have double flying geese borders, and stars in the corners.

Plenty of room for stunning quilting. This one will be a star!!

And of course, to keep our red and white theme going,

delicious raspberry's, picked fresh from my garden,

with cream and meringues. Delish!!!

Off to pick more raspberry's. Any one for morning tea!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Inspiration from Castlemaine Applique Group.

2011-11-24T07:17:00.002+11:00

l am packing to head off for our last Sorrento retreat for the year.

l am sure to have some great show and tell on my return.

This year we decided to swap for xmas, a small quilt,

using the fat quarter patterns by Lori Smith. Mine is all finished bar the binding,

so l will probably have to hide in my bedroom to get it finished.

Its red and white, so we can use it in next years exhibit.

l wonder if any of the other retreaters thought like me!! We shall see!!

Meanwhile, l thought l would leave you with some inspiring works we saw

at our recent meeting of the Castlemaine Applique Group.

These women are amazing, not only with the speed they work at,

but the stunning works they make. l am proud to belong to this group,

and hope their skills in applique rub off one day!!!

This stunning quilt was inspired by a pattern, English Baskets Quilt,

here is Margaret with the centre of her latest creation.

These 2 quilts are made by mother and daughter team. Stunning work.

Here is Meghan with her dutch chintz quilt.

This scrappy bow tie quilt was a winner.

Here is Dorothy's completed Mary Brown quilt.

Several women are making these clam shell bed runners.

A quilt with out making a quilt.

Bev has been super busy. Here is her almost completed

big pot of flowers quilt. Just 3 borders to go.

Bev started this stunner after Mary Koval visited us in June.

Its from Mary's Favorite Blue and White Quilts book.

Bev made hers red and white, so we can hang it in next years exhibit.

And Bev only has 1 border to go on her Civil War Brides Quilt.

This stunner is called Steve's Garden. We have watched the progeress on

this one closely and its wonderful to see it finished.

Pattern is by Patchwork on Stoneleigh.

Here are some of the ladies getting more inspiration from the books

l brought home from Houston.

Who knows what we will see at next years gatherings!!!

Well, l hope you enjoyed our show and tell,

and that its inspired you to start something new.

Yes, thats permission given!!! LOL

And to all my US friends, old and new,

Happy Thanksgiving.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Quilts and Friends at Festival.

2011-11-21T09:00:00.001+11:00

Just a hand full of the quilts that caught my eye at Festival this year.

While the quilts and vendors play a large part in the reason l enjoy visiting Festival,

its the friendships made and strengthened during my visit that keeps me coming back each year.

Back row- Me, Deirdre, Carol, leonie, Betsy, Marilyn,

Front row- Anne, Debbie and Kathi.

Cindy, Mary Anne, Jo.

L-R Norah, Kathi, Debbie, Me, Dawn and Sue.

L-R. Anne, Betsy, Anne, Janet, Patricia, Me, Leonie, Betty, Deirdre.

Back row- Betsy, Patricia, Betty, Annette, Leonie, Sonya, Marilyn, Carol.

Front row- Me, Anne, Janet, Deirdre.

Thanks girls for showing us Aussies a GREAT TIME!!

l am very grateful to know and love each and every one of you!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Fun at Fall Market.

2011-11-03T01:09:00.003+11:00

l have been enjoying my first experience at Market. Meeting so many new people,

and hanging with wonderful designers.

Here is Bonnie Sullivan and Kathy Schmitz in their booth. Lovely to chat to,

and their new book French Inspirations for Artful Hands is a must have.

Here is Laurie Simpson and Polly Minick. Again, both lovely to chat to, and

just love their booth.

Found Deirdre hanging out at the Quiltmania booth.

And also Brandon Marly with his spookie Halloween head wear.

Found Paula Barnes Bonnie Blue booth, and enjoyed a chat with her. Looking forward to

buying some of her fabric at market. Both her quilts and fabrics are so inspiring.

Also had a great chat with Annemarie Yohnk from Quilts Remembered in her booth. Her small quilts are wonderful, and mostly made using Jo Morton fabrics, of which l am a huge fan, so a stop in this booth was a must

Have been a huge fan of Renee Plains of Liberty Star for many years,
and was delighted to finally meet with her.

My stashbuster group has been making quilts from Renee's patterns for years.

Her book is a must have. ( sorry its sideways. Blogger!! )

Then the ever delightful Barb Adams and Alma Allen from Blackbird Designs.
l meet these lovely designers in Australia one year when they came to teach,
and it was lovely to re-meet them.

Can't wait to get started on something from their new book.

A Schoolgirls Work.

Of course, no visit to market would not be complete

without visiting with Jo Morton and her gang.

Cindy on the left, and Mary Anne in the middle.
Just love those girls. Big hugs to all 3 of you.

Jo's new book, Prairie Flowers Encore is now available,

and another must have in your library.

Of course, hanging with the The Quilted Crow Girls was a big MUST,

and we have been having a ton of fun, and more to come.
That's my travel partner, Anne, in the middle.

Can't wait for their new book, which will be out in May

Here are the girls ringing home with the good news.

Then we attended the book signing for Betsy and Carol's new book History Repeated.

Waited in line for 45 mins to be the first ones.

If you don't already have this book, run, don't walk, to your nearest quilt shop. Its to die for!!

Well, that's pretty much a wrap-up from Market. Lots more fun was had, but you know,

what happens at market stays at market!!

Though l could be convinced to share more pics at a late date!!! LOL

Festival starts tonight, and a whole lot more great happenings to share soon.

Stay tuned and thanks for visiting,.

Linda.

Here in Houston.

2011-10-31T14:28:00.000+11:00

l'm in Houston with Leonie and Deirdre from The Quilted Crows and we are having so much fun.

Here we are on the lawn sharing a drink with Mr and Mrs Dear Departed.

Don't you think they look like they are having fun too!!

We had fun with Betsy and the Jo gang, we had fun shopping,

we had fun at Marilyn's, and on the ride down to Houston.

We shopped for antique's and found some fun things,

and then we had a ton of fun at the Moda party.

Happy Halloween everyone, stay safe and above all have fun!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Harpers quilt!

2011-10-22T10:40:00.000+11:00

l don't know about you, but l love babies!! l'm not a granny yet, and sure

hope to be one day, but in the mean time,

l enjoy playing with any great niece l can get my hands on.

So what better excuse to make a quilt for my current little one, Harper.

l started with this yummy pile of fabric.

Which quickly became this on the design wall.

l played with them till l was happy and put the rows together.

Then added a final border.

And started to recut.

Ending up with this on the wall.

Once l had it quilted and bound, l took it out in the garden for some shots.

Sometimes it played nicely,

And other times the flowers wanted to be the star!!

l like this one hanging on the bird feeder,

though the sun has washed the color a little.

And it played very nicely with the old gum tree!!

But it started to look lonely!

So we called up Harper to "come see"

And she said, 'This is for me? '

'l love it!!'

'Is it really mine?

''Thank you Aunty Linda'

'Can we go home with my new quilt now Mum? '

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Houston, here l come!!

2011-10-17T16:41:00.000+11:00

In a weeks time l will be hopping on a plane and heading to Houston.

This will be my 3rd visit, and a chance to catch up with friends old and new.

l love seeing all the quilts, visiting all the vendors,

meeting with friends, and good old Texas hospitality.

l will be at the festival from Thursday to Saturday.

Are you going to Houston?

Drop me a line. Maybe we can meet up.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Cot Quilt for Baby Brody

2011-10-12T17:41:00.000+11:00

l made this little cot quilt for my sisters soon-to-be-born grandson.

l fell in love with it, so took a few pics.

Just love these sweet birds.

The colors are so bright, l

sure hope he likes it.

What l forgot to take, was a photo with the mother-to-be!!!

And fortunately, l have enough fabric and birds,

to make a second quilt.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Quiltmania #85

2011-10-05T08:57:00.000+11:00

Do you have your copy yet?

l don't!! Because silly me let my subscription lapse.

And would you believe that a sewing group l belong to is featured as well as yours truly!!

When Quiltmania came to Australia in June for the Sydney Quilt Show,

they also took a trip here to Victoria. A special day was planned in Castlemaine

in conjunction with Threadbear Quilt Shop.

And they have done a special feature on our group.

See Bev's beautiful basket quilt, designed by Di Ford.

They also made a special visit here, to Quilts In The Barn.

Boy, were we excited!!

Its been hard not telling anyone about their visit, in case it didn't make it into the magazine,

but on the cutting room floor!!

There are more photo's that l have not shared, so you need to go buy your own copy.

( Something l still have not done!! So l have borrowed a girlfriends copy to take these pics.)

Also there are stacks of pages of quilts from the Sydney Quilt Show.

In my opinion, this is one of the best issues.

Of course, l'm not the least bit biased!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

"I'm Gonna Love You Through It" - Martina McBride

2011-10-01T07:24:00.003+10:00

Just wanted to share this video with you.

                                           October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

                                              Please feel free to spread the love around!!
                                        And share your story, so we can love you through it!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Behind the scenes at QITB 2011

2011-09-30T08:09:00.000+10:00

Here are the crow girls setting up.

Russ lending a hand to get the barn all pretty!!

I know. Leonie is going to kill me for this one!!

Cutting more fabric in preparation for the crowds.

Taking a moment to sit and enjoy the first of many glasses of champagne.

Even Jo pitched in and helped fold FQ's.

Now this is the girl we know and love!!

Taking the fight to the barn!! What a girl will do for a bundle of wool!!

Duelling Camera's at 5 paces!!

'We all know Russ can be funny, but really!!

It went something like "Would you like me to take your photo with Jo? "

l guess l said YES!!

Dad having a quite moment.

Bev having a pensive moment.

Kirsten doing her best "Sale of the Century" impersonation!!

The woolies were put safely to bed, and out of harms way.

Russ and Jo sharing a cookie moment in the kitchen.

Pack up time. All hands on deck.

Even Viv, the raffle winner pitched in to help.

The Crow girls packing up what was left, which was not much!!

All my quilts loaded and ready to head back to the house.

A quiet moment with my girls, while the boys cooked dinner.

Deirdre had a lot to say.

Sorry Deirdre, l kind of owed Leonie this one!!

This year l decided to present our inaugural perpetual trophy of "Inspiration" for

help above and beyond the call of duty.

Here is Andy our first winner.

Not only does he help hang the quilts, but he shows up all 3 days to direct traffic,

run for last minute bread that we forgot, planned and supplied our new pink shirts

we proudly wore all weekend, and then pitches in with his lovely wife and

beautiful daughters where needed on Sunday,

giving up his own fathers day to help us.

That's Inspiration!!

He has nicknamed her "Holy Mother of Inspiration"

l believe she went straight to the Pool room!!

The boys taking a well earned break after parking cars

all weekend and cooking dinner for us girls.

A huge THANK YOU to my family, especially Paul and Becci who both do an

outstanding job of support and helping,

Jo and Russ for making the trip across the many miles,

and being so generous with book donations and our 2nd prize quilt,

Leonie and Deirdre for making the boat trip across the 'Straight'

with all their wonderful goodies for us to buy,

the many helpers ( too numerous to mention, but you know who you are)

across the weekend, both male and female, and of course

the quilt shops who support us year after year, selling raffle tickets,

and having our flyer's. Without these people and their support,

the weekend would not happen. Its a true team effort, and l love you guys.

l hope you have enjoyed seeing behind the scenes at Quilts in the barn.

Its a lot of hard work, but many wonderfully funny moments too.

l cherish the memories we made this year.

This year we raised around $12,500 for Breast Cancer research.

Bring on next year!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

QITB Raffle Quilt Winner.

2011-09-26T08:27:00.001+10:00

Remember this beautiful quilt that many of you sent blocks,

and l made into this years raffle quilt?

Here is Russ preparing to draw the winning ticket.

Quite a crowd had gathered.

As he read the first name, you can see a lady in the background get excited.

Then jumps for joy, as her full name is read out.

Let me tell you, we were as excited as her.

This is the first time we have had the raffle winner in the audience.

Here is Viv showing off her newly won quilt!!

Hugging it with joy!!

Celebrating with a glass of champagne.

Getting Russ to add his signature to Jo's block.

And sharing the moment with the rest of the crew!!

Congratulations Viv. l know this quilt has gone to a home,

where it will be loved and cherished.

On Friday, l took a trip with Jill to deliver the suitcase raffle to

its very lucky winner. Here is Lynne, with her prize. and now she has

it in her hot little hands, l look forward to seeing

what treasures she makes with her goodies. There was a ton of Jo fabrics, and also

loads of patterns designed by The Quilted Crow Girls.

This prize was donated by The Quilted Crow, who were our traders

for the weekend. If you want to see some of the goodies that were in the suitcase,

visit their online shop. Its a real treat.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Quilts In The Barn 2011 #2

2011-09-20T08:13:00.000+10:00

And come they did!!

Jill and Dorothy doing a great job up front!!

The Quilted Crows were kept busy.

Time for a cuppa.

A chance to catch up with friends from near and far.

And enjoy the wonderful sunshine this year!!

Some of the crew who helped out this year.

Love our new pink shirts!!! Thanks Andy.

Crow Central looked pretty spectacular!!

They even sold Jo something!!!

Thanks for visiting.

l am enjoying reliving our wonderful weekend.

Hope you are enjoying it too!!

Linda.

Quilts In The Barn 2011 with Jo Morton.

2011-09-17T10:27:00.001+10:00

l can't believe its already been 2 weeks since we held our QITB exhibition with Jo Morton.

Time sure flies when you are having fun!! Its been a super busy few weeks,

with Jo and Russ, and l would not change 1 minute of it.

From their arrival at Melbourne airport, to setting up the exhibit,

spending 3 days hanging out with wonderful women and men who visitied,

a few days stitching at Sorrento, 4 days down in Tassie,

and our final piece de'resistance,

a trip to Threadbear in Castlemaine,

our time with our guests

has just been the BEST!!!

l will leave you with these photos, which speak for themselves,

of the wonderful quilts that were on exhibit over the 3 days.

The star of the show!! Jo herself.

The following photos are of Quilts Jo brought with her.

The following photos are of quilts made by Bev, Dorothy and myself.

This quilt was made by Meghan.

Thanks for letting us hang it.

This quilt was made by Jacinta.

Thanks for letting us hang it.

Over the next few posts, l will share some photos of everyone having a great time,

our lucky raffle quilt winner,

and also some behind the scenes shots.

l am up for a bribe if you don't want your photo out there!!!

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

More QITB 2011 sightings!!!

2011-09-06T22:58:00.001+10:00

Taking a few days break, to show Jo and Russ some of our beautiful country. Have a few more links to blog sighting's you might enjoy.
Here, here and here.
If you see any more sighting's, please let me know and l will add them here.
Will be back in a week with some photos and a wrap up of our weekend.
Thanks for visiting.
Linda.

Quilts in the Barn 2011

2011-09-04T06:35:00.003+10:00

We have been Busy! Busy! Busy! If you want a sneak peak pop over here , here and
Here .
Be back soon!!! Have some scones to bake!!!
Thanks for all your well wishes for a great exhibition. It's working!!

Thanks for visiting.
Linda.

Twas the night before

2011-09-01T18:51:00.000+10:00

Twas the night before Quilts in the Barn, when all through the Barn,

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The quilts were all hung in the Barn with great care,

In hopes that the crowds soon would be there.

The adults were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of fabric danced in their heads.

And Jo in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,

Had just settled our brains for a lovely spring day.

Hope to see you this weekend!!!!!!

Linda, Jo and The Quilted Crows.

Quilts In The Barn This Weekend!!!

2011-08-31T08:37:00.000+10:00

Piles of quilts on my lounge and sewing room floor!!!

Its getting exciting!!!!

Not long to wait now.

Hope to see many of you over the 3 days.

Please do say hello. Its always great to put a face to a name.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Our weekend in pictures!!

2011-08-25T08:41:00.002+10:00

This lovely bunch of women joined me at Sorrento for the weekend.

l think you can tell by the smiles on our faces, that we had a GOOD TIME!!!

Here is Sue having a lesson in hand quilting this antique quilt

she bought at An Evening With Mary.

Meredithe started with this pile of fabrics,

Pedal to the metal!!

And by the end of the day, this top was complete. ( sorry no finished photo)

Bonnie was working on her applique.

This is going to be one stunning quilt when finished.

One the second day, Meredithe changed tack, and was working on these blocks,

using some yummy Japanese fabrics.

My tumblers in progress.

Bev is working on this stunning red and white applique quilt.

Only one long border and 8 blocks to go!!!

As my tumblers grew, we needed to use the floor, as the design wall was too small.

Not only sewing happened across the weekend.

Here is Di having her first experience with this kitchen tool.

" Oh, is that how it works?

There were plenty of cooks in the kitchen, whipping up a delicious meal.

Note Bev checking the recipe!!

Di took some time out to press some tumblers for me, so l could keep sewing.

Then we all shared this magnificent meal.

Slow roasted garlic and lemon chicken,

potato, leek and silverbeet gratin, and lovely fresh salad.

Accompanied by champagne of course.

Delicious!!!

Followed by this divine chocolate cake and sauce, made by Di.

Totally decadent!!

And responsible for the 2 kg gain over the weekend!! LOL

Over the weekend, l made lots of progress on my tumblers.

Here is Meredithe and Di doing a little measuring on Sue's antique quilt.

Bonnie making food choices.

l would say all in all, we had a great weekend.

Food, friends, fun and fabric. What more could you want.

Can't wait to go back again with this group of girls!!

If you want to see some other pics of our weekend, visit Meredithe's blog over here

Oh, and by the way, those ginger jars are hard wired into the security system!!

And after a further 5 hours in the sewing room on Monday,

my tumbler quilt is finished. Its off to be quilted this afternoon.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Show and tell at CAG.

2011-08-20T09:59:00.002+10:00

Of course, show and tell is much anticipated. Its a great productive group,

with the main focus being applique, but that does not stop us sharing

any finished and sometimes unfinished quilts.

This first one is Di Hall's ( Ford) stunning new Antique Wedding Sampler - Revisited.

This quilt is available as a block of the month from Threadbear in Castlemaine,

along with many other stunning quilt patterns.

Dorothy brought along her finished Ann's legacy, A Tribute to Ann Daggs,

pattern by Di Hall ( Ford) , also available from Threadbear

My apologies for not knowing the name of the owner of the design,

but we were all fascinated by the outer border which was pieced.

This charming quilt is so pretty. Not sure who made it, maybe Chris Serong?

If you know, can you please let me know and l will made amends.

Another quilt, also by Chris Serong?

All hexagons and very beautiful.

Again, no known maker or pattern. But a very charming quilt.

Let me know if you know who's this is, thanks.

As you can see, lots to keep us inspired.

We certainly look forward to our next meeting in November

for some more wonderful quilts and inspiration.

Thanks for visiting.

linda.

Castlemaine Applique Society Meeting

2011-08-19T09:42:00.002+10:00

Bev, Dorothy and l took the drive to Castlemaine last Saturday for this months

meeting of the Castlemaine Applique Group.

Carolyn, one of the members, was our guest speaker, and she shared with us

her antique quilt collection, telling us stories of how

and why she collected the quilts she owns.

This first one is just a top, but its color and design is stunning.

This second one is also a top, Jacobs Ladder.

Carolyn hopes to one day hand quilt these tops.

Carolyn always wanted to make a double wedding ring quilt,

and now that she owns an antique one, she does not need too!!

This 9 patch was quite charming, and

from a distance has an Amish look to it.

This stunning red and white quilt caught my eye.

This quilt was just charming, an album block.

This was probably my favorite on the day. Love that red and black/grey.

Another lovely red and white. This one belongs to Carolyn's friend, Sharon.

Carolyn also brought 2 bears.

This one has been made using an antique cutter quilt.

This one was made using a school blazer. Quite charming!!

Here is a picture of our group in the hall we use.

About 50 members. We always have a great day!!!

l will be back in a few days with some of the quilts

from Show and tell. A few stunners to share!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Jo Morton Books and fabrics.

2011-08-16T07:40:00.003+10:00

EDIT-more books on their way, so lots to go around. But don't delay and miss out!!!
Order yours today to be sure.

Things are really gearing up here for Quilts In The Barn.

Quilts are being finished, quilted and bound.

Rosters are being made, loads of lists of last minute things to do.

Flights are being booked. Boat trips planned. Cars being readied!!

Phone calls made. They are coming from all over to be here!!
Last count there are people coming from at least 5 states.
Anyone from N.T. or W.A. coming?

And look what arrived in the mail last week.

Books!!

By Jo Morton.

A box full, very generously donated by Jo.

l have decided to put these here for pre -sale.

If you want to buy any of them, l will put your name on them and keep them aside for

you to collect over the weekend of Quilts In The Barn.

Jo will also sign them if you want.

There is only 6 of each book available , so it's first in, first served.

All proceeds from the sale of these books are going directly to Breast Cancer Research.

And that means every cent!!

If loads more people want them, l will have Jo post me another box,

so please let me know in the next few days, or you will miss out.

This book, Coming Home, is full of wonderful projects.

For sale at $37.

This book, Remembrances,

has loads of inspiring projects.

For sale at $33.

This book, Timeless,

is another you will want in your collection.

For sale at $25.

This is Jo's most recent book, Banner Day.

Full of great ideas and projects, all 16 of them.

For sale at $35.

If its fabrics you are after, take a look here at The Quilted Crow's blog.

They have just had a stack of boxes of Jo Morton fabric delivered,

and l have managed to convince them to bring them all over on the boat!!

Leonie tells me they will have over 100 different Jo fabrics for sale!!!

Many of the quilts in these books will be on display at the exhibit,

so you will get a first hand, closeup look at them.

This is going to be our best ever Quilts In The Barn.

l know l can't wait!!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Tumbler quilt.

2011-08-10T17:52:00.000+10:00

Here is some progress on my tumbler quilt.

Wish me luck on getting this one finished in time for the exhibit. Need to lock

myself in my sewing room, and not come out for a week!!! That would be heaven!!

l have missed my sewing machine sew much!!!

Mind you , l think l have cut enough tumblers for about 6 quilts!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Then there's the Red and White quilt!!

2011-08-09T08:30:00.000+10:00

Well, its not exactly red and white, but its close, and it was definitely inspired by the

Infinite Variety Exhibit in NYC earlier this year.

This is just the first in a series of red and white quilts l am working on,

that are directly inspired by the exhibit. When l came home,

l just wanted to sew red and white, but with no white fabric in my stash,

l just used what l had. l still love it!! Can't beat a 9 patch in a 9 patch.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

That Quilt!!

2011-08-07T16:42:00.001+10:00

Did you guess right again??

Again, l just love!!! this quilt. l have been in love with this zig zag setting for so long,

and finally this was the right quilt to use it on. l love how the different fabrics can make

the block look so different. Can't wait to see this one finished.

It will also hang in our exhibit.

l can see more quilts with this setting in my future.

l still have a few bags of blocks to use, so need to keep plodding along with them.

Spent the day at stashbusters today, nothing much to show,

just cutting more tumblers for my tumbler quilt.

Have used about 285 different Jo fabrics so far!!

Though l here that there are about 1,000 different fabrics Jo has designed.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

This Quilt!!

2011-08-06T16:35:00.003+10:00

Here is what l chose. l wonder if it's what you would have done!!

l really love this pink/red fabric. And l am very pleased with how the quilt looks.

Can't wait to see it quilted. This quilt will hang in our exhibit in 4 weeks.

Next l played with these blocks, also from a swap online.

Again, all Jo Morton fabrics.

Hhmmm!!! This fabric or that fabric for the setting???

You know the drill. Come back tomorrow!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Those Quilts!!

2011-08-05T16:35:00.000+10:00

Remember this little pile way back here?

Well some of them are off to the quilter tomorrow.

So l thought l would show you them before,

and then again when my machine quilter has performed her magic on them.

The one on the left was using some four patches that l had made.

The one on the right was using some left over half square triangels that were just lying around.

Then l played with these swap blocks from an earlier swap with

Jo Mortons online stitching group.

These are all Jo Morton Fabrics.

Which one would you choose?

Come back tomorrow and l will show you!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Quilts In The Barn 2011

2011-08-03T18:45:00.000+10:00

Only 4 weeks till this special event. Can't wait!!!!

Hope to see you there.

Many thanks to Jen for helping with the flyer.

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

An Evening With Mary!!

2011-07-09T17:47:00.000+10:00

l sent the word around.

An evening with Mary.

Quilts, show and tell, wine and food.

What more could they ask for!!!!

And come they did.

Some of the gathered crowd.

We even let some men come, but made them stay in the pantry.

After all, this was Women's Business!!!

Mary and Joe set up the quilts in the afternoon, and then when the

girls were coming, we had the lights off till after dinner.

First up, Mary gave a talk about how she and Joe first started to buy and sell antiques.

She went on to talk about how she designs fabrics, using antique fabric for inspiration.

Then it was time to show us some of the quilts.

This one received the most attention.

It was placed on the floor for a closer examination. Mary said that in 40 years of buying,

selling and collecting quilts, she had only come across

10 examples of such wonderful Broderie Perse.

Time to check out what was for sale, and take a final photo of THAT quilt.

A very happy quilter with a new purchase. No getting that off her!!!

Finally, it was Mary's turn to take a seat and enjoy the

show and tell all the girls had brought. And we let a few men out of the pantry,

because they are good at holding up the quilts!!

Here is Bev with her Mary Manakee in progress.

Deb with her Poppy's Quilt, a design by Di Ford.

( l have this quilt started, its hiding in a box in my sewing room. Time to bring it out l think!! )

Meghan with her Sarah Morrell.

Dorothy with her Phebe Quilt.

Di with a stunner!!

Carolyn and an antique from her collection.

Jill and one of her antique quilts.

This japanese beauty was made by Anne.

And so was this stunning quilt, made with all Australian fabrics.

Sandra, and her antique quilt bought on our trip to the states in 2009.

Finally, time for a group shot, then off home.

Thanks to everyone who came and made the evening such a wonderful success.

Come back next year Mary!!!!

More adventures to come.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

A week with Mary!!

2011-07-08T17:42:00.003+10:00

One of the first outings we did was to take the girls ( and some men) up into the

Dandenongs. Of course, no visit to the Dandenongs is complete without a

visit to Miss Marples Tea Rooms. Here we are out the front.

Don't you love the Christmas in July decorations.

After visiting a few shops and stopping for more food, we headed to the

Mt Dandenong Observatory, where we had an up close and personal

meeting with a Kookaburra. They are just the cutest of birds.

The sky was overcast, so no clear view of the city, but l liked how the sun rays

were shining through the clouds

No quilt related activities today, but plenty to come.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Playing Catchup #2

2011-07-07T17:40:00.000+10:00

The reason l had to be home the 23rd, was so l could be there to celebrate

my DD's special birthday the next day. My sister flew down from Brisbane,

and joined us for a weekend of celebration. We spent 2 days cooking,

and on the Sunday held a high tea party.

Some of the gathered guests, in their Sunday best, enjoying the food on offer.

Here is the birthday girl, ready to blow out her candles.

We also had some extra special guest's arrive during the afternoon.

On the left, Di Hall ( Ford) Nel Noonin, Mary Koval, and Petra Prins.

Nel and Petra own Den Haan & Wagenmakers in Amsterdam and Mary has a quilt shop

in Bedford P.A. and is well known for her antique quilts she sells and fabrics

she designs using antique fabric.

The 3 of them made the trip to Australia, and had been in Sydney

for the quilt show, arriving at my place that afternoon.

l met all 3 at Houston last year, when l visited Festival with Di.

Then l visited with Mary in March,

when l went for the red and white exhibit.

Nel and Petra were to be house guests with Di for the week, and Mary and Joe Koval were

staying with me for their remaining time in Australia. We had plenty of

exciting adventures planned for them. l will be back with some of them soon!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Playing Catchup!!

2011-07-06T19:26:00.002+10:00

The last 5 weeks has been a roller coaster ride of emotions. From one end

of the spectrum to the other. And after arranging, planning, cooking and

hosting 5 various events in those 5 weeks, quite frankly, l am exhausted.

So today l am going to play a little catch up and over the next few posts,

share some of the wonderful events that have happened during those 5 weeks.

First up, the raffle quilt.

Here is a photo of the finished quilt. l took myself off into my sewing room

on a Sunday and emerged 8 hours later with the finished quilt. My girlfriend machine

quilted it for me, and now l am ready to start selling raffle tickets.

Can you spot your block?

l want to send a huge thank you to everyone who took the time to post a block.

l just love this quilt, and am sure the winner of the raffle will too.

Then l went to Sydney for the Sydney Quilt show. Even till the last moment, l was having doubts as to whether l should go. l knew l needed some time out, but there was this ash cloud hanging around, and l HAD to be home on the 23rd June. l took the risk, and was met at the airport by Liz, and we spent the day visiting 4 quilt shops. This one, Calico and Ivy was my favorite.

l was on a mission to find fabrics to make a quilt for my great niece, Harper. Her mum

had sent a photo of the motifs in her room, and armed with this,

the shopping was easy. Here is the pile of fabric l collected that day.

l will make a start this weekend, and l want something that's pretty, but will last

much longer than just the baby years. There are a few ideas floating in my head.

The chocolate solid was bought just this week on a trip to the city.

What would you make if you had these fabrics?

Wednesday we headed to the show, and spent a great day shopping, visiting,

and buying a few odds and ends. The quilts were great, and some

wonderful winners, but the rules have changed and l can't show any here.

This is the link you can go to to see the winners. Don't forget to check

out all the categories at the top of the page.

One person l finally had the chance to meet was Rachael.

l had the raffle quilt with me, and here we are with the fussy cut block Rachael sent me.

The ash cloud lifted in time for my return trip. l would like to send a very grateful thanks

to Liz for the care she took of my during my brief visit.

Liz, it was just what the doctor ordered.

l hope l can repay the hospitality some time.

Well, that's all for tonight.

Be back soon with lots more exciting adventures.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

A Very Special Day!!

2011-06-18T19:16:00.001+10:00

l received an invite in the mail recently, inviting DH and myself to

celebrate Di Ford's 60th birthday with a High Tea Party.

After all the grief and heartache of the last few weeks, l was looking forward

to spending some time with friends and celebrating a wonderful occasion.

Almost all the Secret Sewing Sisters were present, as well as scores of family.

Imagine our surprise, when the day became a Celebration of Marriage,

as well as Di's birthday. Unbeknown to all the guests, including Di's daughter,

they had arranged for a celebrant to join us during the afternoon,

to perform their wedding vows. Di and Brian have been together for

several years, and it was both a joy and delight to be present for this special day.

Here is the happy couple just after the ceremony.

Congratulations Di and Brian on a beautiful wedding,

and thank you for the honor and privilege to be present,

as you begin the rest of your lives together.

3 cheers for the Bride and Groom!!!

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

Blocks and Prayers.

2011-06-11T16:59:00.006+10:00

Written on Monday 6th June, but never posted.

These blocks have arrived over the last week. They will probably be the last,

other than the box that should arrive this week from Jo. My sewing group is coming here to sew on Friday, and l hope we will make a huge dint in the top.
Again, a huge thank you all everyone who have kindly sent blocks.

Many thanks to

Collette Lee

Kennette Roberts

Dixie Howard

Nora Ronningen

Meredithe Clark

Joyce Little x2

Janet O'Dell

Barb Craxton

Janet Henderson

Dawn Ronningen

l have met with several Oncology Doctors who are caring for my Mother.

They have been wonderfully informative and very supportive

given the news they had to share. Our main aim is to make life comfortable

for Mum's remaining time here with us, and we hope to move

her to a palliative care centre later this week or early next week.

l thank you all for your words of support. They mean so much.

Post Script, added on Saturday 11th June.

Last Wednesday we had the funeral for DH's brother. Michael's funeral was difficult, and also a celebration of his life. You see, Michael lived a life different to most. He was born with Down Syndrome, and was and always will be an angel in our eyes. He will be deeply missed.

The day was even more difficult, as l had received a call that morning before the funeral, from Mum's Oncology Doctor. Sadly Mum passed away that afternoon, after a short, but brave battle, surrounded by family. l find myself arranging another funeral, much to my disbelief.

l am bereft.

Lila Stanton
28/05/1931 - 08/06/2011
My Mum.

l would like to thank all of you who sent me messages of support and prayers.

They have been much appreciated. Thank you.

Linda.

Dear God,

2011-06-03T07:17:00.000+10:00

Dear God,

We have a saying here on earth, that you only give us what we can cope with.

l am here to say ENOUGH ALREADY!!!

Yesterday, l started on a journey with my Mother.

l pray for strength when she does not have enough,

for courage to face the battles ahead,

and the wisdom to make the right choices.

l know l don't walk this path alone.

Many before me have been here.

Some will walk it with me.

l know you will be there too.

Thanks for listening.

Linda.

My Brother-In-Law.

2011-05-30T19:48:00.000+10:00

Michael Timothy Collins.

25/3/1965 - 30/5/2011

Gone to play with the Angels in Heaven.

OH MY!!!

2011-05-26T20:00:00.002+10:00

Look what was waiting for me on my return from Sorrento!!

It was like xmas, so many envelopes with my name on them.
l sat on the floor in the hall, sorted through them, then had loads of fun
opening them, and reading all your names.

You will find a list of contributors at the bottom of this post.

And inside all those envelopes were all these!!

Look how many more blocks there are to add the pile.

Many of you included notes and cards, some with stories of survivors and those lost.

There was even a few swatches of fabrics, that will be included in my tumbler

quilt l am making with all Jo fabrics. l am overwhelmed with the response.

THANK YOU all from the bottom of my heart!!

l know there is still a bag of blocks to come from Jo, she has been collecting some for me,

and they will arrive next week. l feel confident we will reach our target of 140 blocks. Again, a huge thank you to everyone who has sent blocks. Can you spot your's?

This is the pile of quilts that came home from Sorrento. Some went as just blocks,

some went ready to be bound and some went as ideas in my head.

When l have had time for the dust to settle, and this weekend is over,

l will show you all the fun we had. l am heading soon to the airport to pick up one

of my sisters, who is flying in from Brisbane. Then this weekend,

we celebrate my Mother's 80th birthday. Quite a milestone.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Blocks received this week.

Fay Dunstan *

Eileen Olsen *

Alison Gardner *

Christine Bates *

Marjory Yip

Catherine Hutton

Sharon Panagaris

Linda Dassenko

Jan Smith

Mary Hickory

Randi Mulelid

Mimi Stubbs

Ava Conchelas

Jenny McHenry

Susan Price *

Stella Smyth *

Teresa Romes *

Hilary Streefer *

Joanna Marta *

Docia Fuller *

Claudia Ramirez *

Maureen Gray

* this means they all came in the same envelope.

If l have neglected to add a link to your blog, please let me know, and l will fix it. Many thanks.

Yesterday's blocks and heading to Sorrento.

2011-05-20T09:35:00.002+10:00

These 2 lovely blocks came in the mail yesterday.
Many thanks Liz ( Quilterie) and Ginny in Canada. .

Ginny writes the color of her block was inspired by the

recent Infinite variety Exhibit. Gotta love red!!!

l have heard from Jo, and she has around 50 blocks to post to me in the next day or so, and that will bring our total of blocks to close to 100. l need at least 140 for the quilt.

You still have time to send in those blocks.

Until the 24th May if you live in Australia, and by Sunday the 22nd May,

if you live anywhere else in the world.
A huge thank you to all who have sent blocks in so far.
All the info you need to make a block and send it to me can be found HERE!!

l am packing my bags and heading to Sorrento, for a weeks blissful sewing.

Several different sewing buddies will be joining me over the week.

DH is away, and so the cat will play!! l have 3 bags FULL of my Jo Morton fabrics,
and l plan to do some serious sewing of quilts, that will hopefully
hang in this years Quilts In The Barn Exhibit.

So l won't be posting any blocks that arrive for the next week,

but if l can figure out how to get photos on to my ipad,

l can post some photos of my sewing progress this week.

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

More blocks in the mail!!

2011-05-18T21:58:00.001+10:00

These four blocks came yesterday.

Many thanks to Doni, Lori, France, and Julie.

Then these 2 came today from Rachael. She even did one fussy cut.

l think its very cute!! Thanks so much!!

Then this afternoon, l found a small parcel at my front door, containing these 17 blocks.

Robyn had contacted me and asked if she could get a few friends to sign blocks.

l think she managed to get the whole of Healesville to take part.

Many thanks Robyn, they are fantastic.

So this is a pic of all the blocks so far. Its looking wonderful,

and a huge thank you to all who have sent blocks so far.

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

More Blocks!!

2011-05-16T15:29:00.000+10:00

Its a lot of fun checking the mail each day. There were 4 more blocks that came today.

1 from France, 1 from USA and 2 from Australia.

Many thanks Sue from France, Cheryl ( So many Quilts, So Little Time) from USA,

Sue-Anne ( Buddy & Me) and Jan from Australia.

Your blocks are wonderful!!!

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

Great Mail Day!!!!

2011-05-15T16:32:00.002+10:00

Friday was a great mail day. l received the first 2 blocks for the

Quilts In The Barn Raffle Quilt. Many thanks Sue ( I Sew Quilts) and Sue ( no blog)

who sent theirs all the way from England.

Then on Saturday, at Castlemaine, l collected a few more.

Thanks Margaret, ( Quilt Station x 2) Merri, and Jacquie ( no blog).

As you can see, the quilt is starting to take shape. We have a long way to go,

but l know more are in the mail and on their way here. Many thanks to all

who have contacted me to let me know you are making a block.

There is still plenty of time to make a block and post it to me. If you live anywhere

but Australia, your block needs to be in the mail by the 20th May at the latest.

All the directions and posting address can be found HERE!!

If you live in Australia, you have a few more days, till the 24th. l will be putting the

quilt together starting the week of the 30th May.

Also in the mail friday, was my parcel from a Civil War Needle Case swap l took part in.

My Partner, Robyn from Tennessee, USA, sent me these wonderful treats, and

an adorable needle case. Many thanks Robyn, you sure spoilt me!!!

My parcel to Robyn is in the mail, and

silly me forgot to take a photo before l posted it.

l will be checking the mail all week, and will share blocks as they come in.

Again, many thanks to all taking part. This is going to be a very special quilt.

Thanks for visiting,

Linda.

AQC in Melbourne.

2011-05-10T15:40:00.004+10:00

Just recently, the Australian Quilt Convention was on in Melbourne. l always visit with my dear friends, Robyn and Sharon, who make the trip down from Sydney. Its been a tradition for the last 4 years. Then we head on down to Sorrento for a weekend of sewing. You can read about last years trip here and here.

Of course, our first visit for the day was with my dear friends, Leonie and Deidre,

from The Quilted Crow in Hobart. l never miss a chance to see these girls

and their wares. Its always a treat. And l am happy to say,

they will be our trade table this year at Quilts In The Barn in September.

We received a call from them on Friday morning to say

they had won the best stand this year. 3 cheers for the Crows!!!!

Their stuff is to die for!! They are currently setting up for Quilt Market in Salt Lake City.

If you are going, call in and say hello from me!!!

Then this stand caught my eye. Love the wools, and yummy buttons they had.

Just wish l had bought the alpaca wool kit to make that

crocheted blanket in the back left corner!!!

And no visit to AQC is complete without a visit to Somerset patchwork. Their stand is always outstanding, and Karen and Paul are always obliging about my taking a photo,

even thought the sign says No Photo's!!

Just look at that new quilt Karen has designed. Mrs Billings Coverlet.

Its a block of the month. And it's to DIE FOR!!!

l had the chance to meet with Dawn, from Quilts and Pieces.

She is just delightful, and hope l see you again in Aus one day Dawn!!!

L to R- Robyn, Dawn, me and Anne.

This is the beautiful building that holds the AQC each year.

They are restoring the gardens out the front.

Just a few of the quilts that caught my eye this year.

That night, we ventured out for dinner with the Quilted Crow Girls.

L to R back row, Deidre, Robyn, Sharon,

L to R front row, Me, Sandra and Leonie.

Just some of the yummy food we enjoyed!!

Then we headed down to Sorrento for our sewing weekend. l spent most of the time

cutting these tumblers from Jo Morton fabric. Can't wait to see this one finished.

It will hang at this years exhibit. If you want to see more photos

from our weekend, visit Robyn over here and see what we all got up to!!

Don't forget, you have till the 18th May to put your raffle quilt block in the mail.

Full instructions can be found here. Many thanks to those who have already

contacted me to let me know they are sending blocks.

Thanks for visiting.

Linda.

P.S. And if you are looking for a quilt show to visit, here is one on the 26th,27th and 28th May.

Thanks Pat for letting me know about it. See you there!!