Happy National Sewing Month!
For 30 Days of Sewing with Art Gallery Fabrics, I chose to make this +bound+ mini quilt. It was a design I had sketched up last year while waiting for the perfect fabrics. I knew +bound+ by April Rhodes was the perfect candidate. I really loved working with this line, and I made this 12" x 24" pillow too from Noodlehead's book, Handmade Style.
Fabrics used for the quilt (all AGF):
+ Geese- BOU-7041
+ Skies- BOU-7044
+ Tips- PE-413
+HSTs- BOU-7042
+Background-PE-431
+Binding- BOU-7047
Fabrics used for the pillow:
+Backside- BOU- 7051
+Accent- BOU- 8044
+Center accent - BOU-8042
+Background- BOU-8049
As we celebrate national month of sewing in September, I thought about why I sew. It was not something I picked up until just a few years ago. Growing up, I was never surrounded by people who sewed for enjoyment or for a living. I practically fell into it by need. Quilting was introduced to me later through blogging.
Sometimes, sewing frustrates me. Sometimes, it makes me happy. Sometimes, I feel apathetic towards the whole thing in general and lose interest. Ultimately though, I find joy in the overall process of sewing and the rewards of seeing a finished product, which keeps me coming back. I can't experience this joy though without the headaches because, if I didn't experience the pains of sewing (literally and figuratively), I would never fully appreciate the good times with sewing. Being able to make things brings me much satisfaction, and I hope the ailments of life never hinder this. To be able to tuck myself under a blanket of small history or hold anything I made with my own two hands is quite enjoyable. I understand that is not the case for everyone, but if you are reading this, I am sure you appreciate crafts in some form or another.
What I really love about quilting though, and more so than the story behind the quilts, is the design aspect. I get to design. I love design, and what I really love is having the POWER to create whatever I envision. What a gift! I can then pass that vision down to someone else to love and cherish for many years to come.
GIVEAWAY
+++++++++++++
What do you love most about sewing/quilting? Let me know in the comment section to enter to win 10 fat quarters of +bound+ by April Rhodes courtesy of Art Gallery Fabrics. (one of the fat quarters I forgot to put into the picture :) Open to US residents. Giveaway ends Saturday, Sept. 5 11:59pm EST. Winner will be chosen at random and updated on this blog post. Make sure I a have your email, so I can contact you. You will also want to check in with my Instagram today too ;), if you are on it.
Make sure to check out the +bound+ Lookbook for inspiring projects that you could make with your TEN fat quarters!
xx nancy
One year ago: Homemade Caramel Sauce
Two years ago: Going black
Three years ago: Split Pouch tutorial
Four years ago: Snack Bag tutorial
Find me on Instagram and Facebook.
My book, Quilting from Every Angle, came out! You can purchase it here.
Fabrics used for the quilt (all AGF):
+ Geese- BOU-7041
+ Skies- BOU-7044
+ Tips- PE-413
+HSTs- BOU-7042
+Background-PE-431
+Binding- BOU-7047
Fabrics used for the pillow:
+Backside- BOU- 7051
+Accent- BOU- 8044
+Center accent - BOU-8042
+Background- BOU-8049
As we celebrate national month of sewing in September, I thought about why I sew. It was not something I picked up until just a few years ago. Growing up, I was never surrounded by people who sewed for enjoyment or for a living. I practically fell into it by need. Quilting was introduced to me later through blogging.
Sometimes, sewing frustrates me. Sometimes, it makes me happy. Sometimes, I feel apathetic towards the whole thing in general and lose interest. Ultimately though, I find joy in the overall process of sewing and the rewards of seeing a finished product, which keeps me coming back. I can't experience this joy though without the headaches because, if I didn't experience the pains of sewing (literally and figuratively), I would never fully appreciate the good times with sewing. Being able to make things brings me much satisfaction, and I hope the ailments of life never hinder this. To be able to tuck myself under a blanket of small history or hold anything I made with my own two hands is quite enjoyable. I understand that is not the case for everyone, but if you are reading this, I am sure you appreciate crafts in some form or another.
What I really love about quilting though, and more so than the story behind the quilts, is the design aspect. I get to design. I love design, and what I really love is having the POWER to create whatever I envision. What a gift! I can then pass that vision down to someone else to love and cherish for many years to come.
GIVEAWAY
+++++++++++++
What do you love most about sewing/quilting? Let me know in the comment section to enter to win 10 fat quarters of +bound+ by April Rhodes courtesy of Art Gallery Fabrics. (one of the fat quarters I forgot to put into the picture :) Open to US residents. Giveaway ends Saturday, Sept. 5 11:59pm EST. Winner will be chosen at random and updated on this blog post. Make sure I a have your email, so I can contact you. You will also want to check in with my Instagram today too ;), if you are on it.
Make sure to check out the +bound+ Lookbook for inspiring projects that you could make with your TEN fat quarters!
xx nancy
One year ago: Homemade Caramel Sauce
Two years ago: Going black
Three years ago: Split Pouch tutorial
Four years ago: Snack Bag tutorial
Find me on Instagram and Facebook.
My book, Quilting from Every Angle, came out! You can purchase it here.
Thank you all for entering the giveaway. Though I cannot respond to everyone's answers, it was nice to read why you enjoy sewing. Happy sewing! xx
Cassandra is #4. Congrats!
Cassandra is #4. Congrats!
I've always loved sewing and being crafty and right now I love the influence thise activities have in my kids. It doesn't have to be electronic devices 24/7!!!
ReplyDeleteI have sewn since an early age but didn't start quilting until a few years ago. I love that I can give a gift that can last.
ReplyDeleteII love sewing as a creative outlet in life that also has function. As I become more 'adult' I have less and less time for art like drawing, painting, and printing, but I can justify time for sewing and quilting as a useful and functional product eventually emerges. And I'm a bit pattern-obsessed.
ReplyDeleteStunning mini, really packs a punch! What I love about sewing is the freedom to do whatever I want whenever I can squeeze a few minutes in. Not like baking or something where there's a recipe and once I start I have to finish it right away hahah. Which is good because most I my wips sit around for months on end before I pick them up again. Doesn't exactly work with cake... Thanks for the giveaway, I'm obsessed with this collection and can't wait to get my hands on some!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part is playing with colors. I've always loved colors but have never enjoyed drawing or painting. Sewing lets me play with colors in a different way that I love.
ReplyDeleteWhat I love most is the therapeutic zone I get into when I am sewing. I'm at peace and get to use my hands to make something beautiful. Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI love the tactile nature of sewing and seeing it all done, but I feel the same way. Sometimes it makes me frustrated, especially since I live in a tiny apartment and getting everything laid out is sometimes a challenge. But all in all, I really do love it.
ReplyDeleteI actually love hand stitching. Hand quilting and sewing binding is like therapy. I'd started making machine binding on smaller things like table runners but I missed the hand stitching so no more machine bindings for me.
ReplyDeleteI've been sewing for a long time, but quilting is new to me. I actually stopped sewing until quilting came into my life and I was hooked! I love to watch different fabrics transform into something new:)
ReplyDeleteI love mixing color and pattern of fabrics and then sewing something utilitarian. I love using something I've made - a pillowcase, oven mitt, quilt, etc...
ReplyDeleteso many loves about this craft... the hum of the machine, the feel of fabric, the unlimited options to pair fabrics together, the bringing me together with other makers...
ReplyDeleteI love when the fabric "takes over" the design process and dictates the direction to go...as I am just learning the craft it has only happened once but oh the feeling! Beautiful symmetry of pattern and fabric in your mini quilt!
ReplyDeleteWhat I love most is being able to forget all the stress of the day (even though sewing has it own stresses, mostly brought on by myself!) and being able to say, I made that with my own two hands, and actually like it!
ReplyDeleteI love being able to create something wearable or usable that is unique (usually). Also, I can lose myself in sewing, which can be good or bad depending on how you look at it. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI love creating unique items to use and give to friends and family. Hand quilting is my favorite step in the process.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part is figuring out how to execute what I have designed in my head!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE sewing because I like making things for the girls and I love to see how excited they get. And in turn they end up wanting to learn how to make things too! (This is Lisa, your sister in law btw ;) )
ReplyDeleteI love the creative process of sewing. My favorite is picking out the fabrics and getting started. Then I love to see how everything comes together - it's all in the details!
ReplyDeleteI love making things for other people and seeing the big smile on their face
ReplyDeleteI love the community sewing has given me.
ReplyDeleteMy grandma taught me how to sew with a yo-yo pillow, stuffed cat (that I figured out how to put a bell in), and a twin sized quilt. I no longer have any of it, but cherish the time I spent with her at the machine.
ReplyDeleteI love being able to make special gifts for family and friends. Just yesterday each of my sisters received a quilt and a bag that I had made them in their children's school colors, so now they are ready to go to football games when the weather turns cool. They were both super excited to receive these packages, which totally made my day.
ReplyDeleteI'm a pretty frugal person and love being able to create anything that is needed in my life myself if possible. I figure if someone else can make it (which is basically everything out there - somebody or somebodies made it), then why can't I? I am a bit new to sewing, but have been ramping up my project list to make stuff for my first baby coming in December! <3
ReplyDeletei have always sewed but i love best making blocks
ReplyDeleteFor me, sewing is an outlet to express my creativity and then give something away to someone I love! Whether it's a handmade Halloween costume or a baby quilt, each piece is unique and special. It's a good feeling!
ReplyDeleteI have very little patience in life. And I love how sewing forces me to slow down, think about things, take my time (or risk making more work for myself), and create something tangible with my hands.
ReplyDeleteI like being able to create something beautiful and useful that I can gift to other people.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure what gives me the greatest pleasure....purchasing fabric or using it! Quilt making keeps me sane.
ReplyDeleteSewing is a relaxing hobby to me. A big bonus is I can create great items for myself or as gifts.
ReplyDeleteQuilting for me was a way to create. I've never been a crafty person (although I always wanted to be) but once I found sewing I had that joy in making.
ReplyDeleteI love that quilting allows me to make my love visible, tangible--the people I love can wrap themselves up in a reminder that I care about them.
ReplyDeleteI love being able to make blankets that I really like versus having to just pick from the store selection that is so limited.
ReplyDeleteOh Nancy, that mini is MAGIC! I started quilting after I had my daughter. She was my first baby, I had just graduated college but was staying at home with her instead of jumping into a career. My other friends didn't have kids of their own yet and I felt isolated and bored. Worried about looming post partum depression I picked out some cute fabric on etsy, found a free tutorial and pattern online and got to work. The rest is really history. I take breaks now and then from my machine, but ultimately I sew because it quiets the noise that builds in my mind all day. It helps me to center and create for the joy of creating.
ReplyDeleteI love sewing because it lets a part of you go out into the world as a beautiful item. A quilt, a pillow, a dress, no limitations except our own mind.
ReplyDeleteI really love this quilt. You did a great job! I adore April Rhodes fabric.
ReplyDeleteI really love this quilt. You did a great job! I adore April Rhodes fabric.
ReplyDeleteI love touching soft fabrics, getting be creative and zone out not thinking about work
ReplyDeleteQuilting is new for me and I love learning something new.
ReplyDeleteI love the release from stress sewing gives me. Time flies by so fast, and I'm focused wholly on making all the little parts come together. It's magical.
ReplyDeleteAwesome quilt! I've only made one quilt, so I'm kind of a beginner. I love seeing the end result and knowing that I made it myself from pieces of fabric.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part of sewing and quilting is the sharing of passion between fellow sewers. The work done by my peers is always inspiring me and there are always smiles and positivity feedback given. The culture of quilting is unmatched by any other group of people and I find my bliss being included in the group.
ReplyDeleteI love being able to look at the things I've sewn and being able to say I made that!!!
ReplyDeleteJessicadodd01@hotmail.com
My favorite part of sewing/quilting is playing with color and design. I love seeing what happens if ... If I make HSTs ... If I put this color with this one ... If I put this print with this one ... If I use only solids this happens ... Etc.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy all kinds of crafts, but especially sewing/quilting. It gets my creative juices flowing, and is so different than my job in accounting. I really miss it if I go too many days without.
ReplyDeletePicking out the pattern and figuring out the fabric for the project, also seeing my vision of the project come together. 24Tangent@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI love the creativity with choosing fabrics and pattern. I love how one person will make the same quilt, yet it can appear completely different based on fabrics.
ReplyDeleteI love the creativity with choosing fabrics and pattern. I love how one person will make the same quilt, yet it can appear completely different based on fabrics.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous quilt! My favorite part of sewing is the creative process of picking fabrics and patterns to make with them. So fun to see it all come together! I also love most anything handmade!!
ReplyDeleteI love how I can go to my place of 'zen' and let all the daily stresses behind while I create. marzstars@msn.com
ReplyDeleteI love that quilting allows me to make something tangible that can function as art and an object that can also be used for something.
ReplyDeleteOops forgot my email! Daniellebourland@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI love making things for people and j can't think of anyone who doesn't like a homemade from the heart gift.
ReplyDeleteFor me I love quilting for the obvious reason - gift giving, creating, etc. But my favorite thing about it is how I started and got into it. I was tring desperately to stay away during nightly feedings with my first son when I started reading blogs and patterns. As soon as he was sleeping through the night I took all that I learned and started sewing my first quilt. I will never forget those nights. Also love how imperfect that first quilt is!
ReplyDeleteI am new to sewing, within the last year. I finally got my own sewing machine back in February. I love making things for other people, and can't wait until my fabric stash is big enough to do some playing around! :D
ReplyDeleteGreat mini! I love working out the challenge of constructing an idea from my mind.
ReplyDeleteI love seeing the outcome but I also love the quilty friends I've made.
ReplyDeleteQuiet time to think creatively
ReplyDeleteUnlike you I've been sewing all my life but you hit the nail on the head with the feelings it creates. Some days it's a love hate relationship but love always wins out and I keep coming back time and time again because sewing, in all its forms is truly and deep down joyful and rewarding.
ReplyDeleteI have recently started dressmaking. Cannot believe the sense of accomplishment to make something I can actually wear and that people compliment.
ReplyDeleteIain.ross30 at gmail dot com
I really like what you said about having the power to create when you're quilting. I feel the same way! I know that what I am making (even if I'm following someone's tutorial), I am making something unique with the fabrics I've chosen, the way I want to quilt it, the fussy cutting, the binding...it all empowers me and makes me feel like I have control over this one thing in my life! (Thank you for pointing that out to me!)
ReplyDeleteI'm a beginner so I like learning new skills and making things for people I love-even if it's a simple blanket for a baby or a pillow for a friend.
ReplyDeleteSewing has been my stress buster.
ReplyDeleteEscaping from the world and creating functional works of art! Gretahoneycutt (at) gmail (dot) com
ReplyDeleteI love to create with fabric - sewing is how I relax!
ReplyDeleteArt Gallery fabrics are beautiful by themselves. Like a piece of art so it is not to hard to create with these fabrics just hard to cut them.
ReplyDeleteIt was always a desire of mine to sew. My hubby bought me a machine about 3 or 4 years ago. But it just never happened. Then I decided to open the box and just do it a couple of months ago. I figured if I don't just make it happen it was never going to happen. And sewing has been so very enjoyable since I started. I have had to rip out a lot of seams and start over. I have even been extremely frustrated at times, but in the end, there is something so wonderful about the finished product and knowing that I made it. And I love to make gifts for others and pour my love into them. They might not always appreciate the gift, but maybe one day it will mean more.
ReplyDeletedetermineddebby at gmail dot com
I love how quilting is a tangible way to express some creativity. I love this look, I am an AGF nut!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you. What I love most about sewing/designing is the ability to have a vision or idea and bring it forth from the ether. It's a perfect example of how ideas, big and small can become things in the real physical world. What a gift to be able to do that. The process gives me serenity and perspective. It is my meditation.
ReplyDeleteI love just about every stage of quilt making. I would say that pulling a "just finished" quilt out of the dryer is my favorite. Love the crinkly goodness!
ReplyDeleteYour designs are always strong and you know exactly where to place the impact. The way you've made the triangles in this quilt is downright powerful! I am mostly an improv person and making something that reflects my idea is extremely difficult for me. But I absolutely love the proceess of trying, and I guess solving the dilemma of how to fix the problems I create is fulfilling because I keep on making things, no matter what!
ReplyDeleteWhat I love most about sewing is being able to create anything I can imagine, from stuffed animal toothbrushes, to the perfect wedding dress, to quilts with my 6 yr. old.
ReplyDeleteI love piecing, it's so relaxing
ReplyDeleteI like being able to create with my hands, to do something separate from my work, my kids, something in my space.
ReplyDeleteI love beautiful fabric, and the fun process of transforming it into beautiful quilts! Thanks for the generous giveaway, and for sharing your beautiful creations.
ReplyDeleteSewiing is very therapeutic for me. It helps me relieve stress. And you great to create beautiful things.
ReplyDeleteDmac5958ataoldotcom
Sewing offers a creative outlet for me. It is my way of expressing beauty through fabrics. Thank you for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI like that you can sew an item that is completely customized to your own tastes...and not some 'cookie cutter' storebought item. Thanks and God bless! ILuvTheEucharist @ aol.com
ReplyDelete