I LOVE Big Butt-ons!

We had a great time at the WSQ Quilt show in Spokane. It is a lot of work, though, and am still recuperating. When we got back, I decided that it was as good of a time as any to rearrange the entire store. As a result the "sale" shelf is newly restocked and overflowing with lots more fabric marked down to $3.99 per yard. Stop by and see what you can't live without!

Skies are low and grey, the wind is blowing golden cottonwood & aspen leaves across the wet roads, Hallowe'en is a few short days away and the full on onslaught of holiday commercials will begin as soon as the last election results are final. For sewing crafters and quilters it is time to gather or favorite tools, a couple of books loaded on our IPods or CD players and head to our sewing machines. Yes! This is my favorite time of year. I love the autumnal colors, the holiday preparations, "whose coming to your house?" discussions , and the inevitable "what are you making for Christmas?" questions. This year, (don't tell) I think I am making handbags. I love the new patterns with the big grommets, I love the handles, and I love Big Buttons! In fact, I like the buttons so much I just stocked some JHB buttons. Most of them are big--suitable for bags or jackets, but I do have a funky few that are smaller, including some tiny black ones that make wonderful "eyes" for snowmen or other critters.

New fabrics are in, too, along with apron patterns. Bags and aprons are two standby gift ideas, but don't forget about table runners, placemats, pillows and lap quilts. With the pre-cut "homemade rolls" or kits that have the strips/squares already cut for you, gift making takes less time than before. You can open the kit and get right to the fun part!

Remember, Saturday, November 13, we will have a free Demonstration Day on Christmas Stocking kits. I have the Accuquilt dies to cut out the stockings (and batting) as well as dies for the shapes to applique onto the stockings--or other holiday decorations such as wall hanging/banners and table toppers or placemats. Precut kits will be available and 10% off on Nov. 13 only! One fun Christmas idea is to use the stockings as your gift bag!

Until next time, enjoy the harvest season!

New year, new Class calendar

Where did January go? Seems like I was rushing to get Christmas things in the mail just a few days ago, and all the sudden, January is nearly history.

I have been preoccupied since Christmas finishing up the directions for my latest quilt, "How Much is That Doggie in the Window?" The quilt is beginner friendly, but each block is different, so it was like writing instructions for 12 quilts! I will be featuring it in an ad in Fabric Trends magazine, Spring 2010 issue. If you haven't seen it, drop by and take a look.

Speaking of Fabric Trends, Spring 2010 issue, I will have a quilt design in that magazine. It features Jim Shore's "Animal Parade" fabric, by Quilting Treasures. I had fun making the quilt in a short amount of time.

Like most of us, I have been enjoying the milder winter, even though I miss the beautiful snowy landscape. Clear roads, however, make it easier to get out and go--maybe take a class!

Now that I am finally getting around to doing a newsletter/calendar, I have to start with February! First off, is the Super Bolt Sunday sale on Feb. 7, starting at 11 AM and running until 5 PM. I'm not giving away ALL the sales info, but I will say, if you need to stock up on thread, now would be the time! Also, I need to make room on the shelves, so any bolts with 5 yards or less, will be deeply discounted. Next up, on Feb. 13, is another opportunity to learn how to use the APQS Millenium Long Arm Quilting machine to quilt your own quilts. The initial investment for the class can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run if you are the kind of quilter that turns out a lot of quilts. By the time the second half of February rolls around, we are all ready for a hint of spring and a little pampering. Indulge yourself with a catered meal, massage and a quilt class all in one day. On February 21, starting at 1 PM, you can get all that and more. The quilt is one I designed and is call "Weaving Western" although yours does not have to have western themed fabrics. This quilt works up quickly, with some simple tricks and techniques that may be new to you. Class space is limited to 6, the cost is $50.00 per person and kits will be available.

February 27, Sandy Berg will be here to teach a class on making her pattern, "Bag 'em and Go." Sandy has designed a wonderful bag for taking to classes or on retreats. It features pockets that hold rulers and squares, and ironing surface and lots of room for projects. The class is from 10 AM until 4 PM and is a bargin at $25.00. See the sample when you sign up. March 3 will be the first class date of another beginner's class. If you have friends or family that have admired your quilting and would like to learn to do it themselves, clue them in to the date so they can sign up.

If you are looking forward to summer, or just like patriotic type fabrics, We just got in Moda's "Nautical and Nice." Thee is still time to make your sweetie a Valentine's pillowcase, or a table runner out of suitable fabrics.