So by now you all know how I love my sewing machine .... well there are quite a few other things that I really love to use that make my life just that little bit easier too that I thought you might like to check out ...
Kia Scissors
I just love these scissors! They are super sharp & and super smooth and don't tend to make my hand hurt when I use them for hours on end with my left hand! I use these little ones for applique - particularly raw edge. They are so sharp that it reduces the damage to the edges of my shapes as I cut them out once the fusible web is attached. Less wear & tear on the edges of your shapes ultimately means less fraying of your edges. Once I cut out my shapes I use the tip of my scissors to score the backing paper of the fusible - this releases the seal and makes removing the backing paper a breeze and also protects the edges of the fabric.
Lite Steam-A-Seam 2
I discovered this product in the US last year and have used nothing else since. It doesn't separate from the backing paper until you want it to, it leaves the shapes relatively soft to touch & there is very little fraying of the edges of your shapes when you use it for raw edge applique. It also has a slightly tacky surface that sort of holds the shape in place until you iron it down - I must say though, that I don't find that it is incredibly tacky and the shapes will move around if you aren't careful.
Ansell Gloves
These gloves are terrific to use for quilting. I first heard about these from an article by Deb Louie in Quilters Companion a while ago and have used nothing else since! They fit snugly, they grip your fabric well, they are super cheap & are readily available from Australian supermarkets. Give them a go you wont be sorry!
These are just a few of my favorite things I'd love to know what your are!
The odds for my last post giveaway were considerably better! So who won Mr Random Number Generator?
Dottycookiewho left the 8th comment ...
Bec Clarke who left the 81st comment ... and believe it or not Bec just posted about a swap quilt she designed using one of my projects as her inspiration! Make sure you take a peek!
Cascadewho left my 107th comment ...
Yay guys! Next post there will be 4 patterns up for grabs .. just leave a comment between now and midnight Australian EST, Sunday the 12th of July to be included.
The final giveaway, that will be the official 100th post giveaway, isn't far away so don't forget that your comments in these give aways will also gain you some extra entries (details in this post). This little pile of fabric will be coming on holidays with me later this week, together with something I have been drawing up for this giveaway ...
... it will be worth the wait!
Thank you all so much for the Birthday wishes for Miss Megan from my last post, she was over whelmed by all of your comments! As for the tree ... well I am not so sure about that one exactly but something a bit like it may well be used for my Pay it Forwards and another little promice I have waiting ... but that's on the back burner for now as I have some things that can't wait a minute longer!
I have finally broken the back of my latest quilt ... thank God!!! Only a little quilting and binding to go. (type pad doesn't want to center my photos anymore so sorry about the formatting!)
This quilt is ultimately for Joshua who still lies under his cot quilt ... poor baby. Sadly he will be laying under it for quite a bit longer because it's going to be spending some time with Homespun once it's done. He's not too thrilled about it either I'm afraid ...
I found him and it all snuggled in his bed yesterday ... luckily his shoes were clean!
Oh and just one more thing before I go and attack the mountain that I have to get through before we leave ...
Rainbow Lollipops ...
Meg's Garden and ...
Oh Christmas Tree ...
... are all making their way to the printers in the morning. They wont be listed in my store until the 25th of July, however, you can pre-order one of these patterns and my darling mother in law will pop it in the mail for you on the 17th of July ... hopefully earlier ... it all depends just how quickly she can fold them ;) !
They are $18 each not including GST (Australians only) or postage. To place a pre-order please email me here. Don't forget to label your email Preorder and please make sure you let me know which pattern you would like and where the pattern will be sent (so I can sort out postage) and I will send you a pay-pal invoice.
Edit Tuesday 7th of July - unfortunately I have hit a couple of snags with printing that have made getting the printing completed before we fly out impossible. Therefor pre-orders will not be ready for mailing out until the 27th of July. I am so sorry about this but unfortunately it just can't be helped.
If you have already purchased one or more of these three patterns using this method or if you choose to go ahead and preorder regardless of the delay then I will thow in a How does your garden grow? pattern and l will now throw in 10 extra entries in the 100th post giveaway in a few posts time.
Enjoy your week guys! Roll on Friday!!!!!! How did it get to be after 4 and I haven't gotten to bed yet????
Kellie
PS If you happen to find yourself in Barcaldine which is about 580 k's due west of Rockhampton, on the Capricorn Hwy in beautiful Queensland .... my patterns are now being stocked by The Silver Thimble! I didn't even get a change to list the pattern give away as blogless Betty took it out before I even had time to post about it!
Congratulations to all the winners... :o))
Must fina a shop near me that have Steam-a- seam..... because I hate VLIESOFIX!!!!!!
Hope to get a go on your patterns when I have that one in my hand!!!!
Have a wonderful day!!
Hugs!!
Posted by: Stina | July 06, 2009 at 04:59 AM
Besides my beautiful sewing machine, Bernice, a couple of my favourite sewing items include my Diamond quilting table and my Magic Gloves. Both are absolutely essential for quilting!
I would like to find some steam-a-steam. I use Heat n Bond, which is quite stiff; even the 'lite' is a bit thick.
Your new patterns are gorgeous. I especially love Meg's Garden. Wow!
Posted by: Rachel | July 06, 2009 at 05:18 AM
Ooh I have the second fabric in your pile, the pink Kaffe spots and circles. Can't wait to see what you do with it. I also love steam a seam. The warmth of the pressure of your fingers temporarily affixs it. I'll have to look for the lite version next.
I'm loving the BSr and knee lift on my new Berninaatm
Posted by: Sue Bone | July 06, 2009 at 05:25 AM
I just love your posts, I'm always so inspired to get back to my sewing machine. Thank you for the inspiration!
Posted by: Anita | July 06, 2009 at 05:32 AM
I like that pencil sketch you're giving us a peek at. And I love that Christmas Tree pattern! It's gorgeous!
Posted by: Harley | July 06, 2009 at 05:41 AM
hi, i have just found your blog yesterday, and I find it so inspiring; you combine colours so nice,and your works are bright and cheerfull
big kiss from argentina, bye!
Posted by: vivi | July 06, 2009 at 05:43 AM
EEEEEEEEK! I am so very excited! Thank you for picking my name - I will email you right now!
Posted by: dottycookie | July 06, 2009 at 05:45 AM
That Christmas tree pattern is absolutely wonderful! It is going on my wish list.
Posted by: Juliann | July 06, 2009 at 05:51 AM
Yay!!! I'm so excited that my lovely friend Dotty Cookie has won! I'm really pleased because she is such a super person!
Your sewing is looking just as inspiring as always and I'm not surprised that Joshua is trying to pinch his quilt - it's gorgeous!
Posted by: Lucy Locket-Pocket | July 06, 2009 at 06:00 AM
Just recently found your blog and patterns. WOW! I love your color use. Oh, the Christmas tree pattern is magical. It is all so inspiring.
Posted by: Joanne | July 06, 2009 at 06:25 AM
I love the fabric pile you will be using. I've used the Lite Steam-and-Seam2 as well. I love it. I also love the Rainbow Lollipops pattern. Gorgeous!!
Posted by: Ariane | July 06, 2009 at 06:25 AM
WOW Joshua's quilt looks AWESOME! Love it!!! I can't wait for your new patterns! My daughter is begging me to make her Rainbow Lollipops! They are all adorable though -- you are just crazy talented!! Congrats on your success and thanks for the chance to win such great giveaways!!! *fingers crossed*
Posted by: Nicki Kirk | July 06, 2009 at 06:31 AM
the new fabric pile looks so fun-- cant wait to see what it becomes!
Posted by: Whitney | July 06, 2009 at 06:35 AM
So many things to comment on Kellie, where do I start? The scissors, I have the same brand rotary cutter, all nicely stored in Australia waiting for my return to retrevie it and all my other treasures. I love that particular brand, such good quality. I have to thank you for pointing out the steam a seam to me a few months ago, you've converted me.... Such gorgeous fabrics for eye candy in this post and I'm sure your young man will love his new quilt to death once it finally makes it onto his bed. Congratulations on three more patterns reaching the printers. Business sure is smiling in your garden.
Posted by: Linda | July 06, 2009 at 06:56 AM
That fabric you are taking with you on vacation is so bright and cheerful...just delicious! And your quilts and patterns are fabulous! Love the colors and the designs!
MGM
Posted by: Mary Grace McNamara | July 06, 2009 at 06:57 AM
Thanks for the tips on those products.
Where do you buy your steam-a-seam?
Joshua's quilt is pretty gorgeous. (So is Joshua!!!)
Catch up again soon?
Andi :-)
Posted by: andi | July 06, 2009 at 06:59 AM
Wow... the fabrics for your latest project are gorgeous. And Oh Christmas Tree is just delightful. So much inspiration, so little time!
Posted by: Leora | July 06, 2009 at 07:02 AM
Just looking at the colors and rounded lines of your pattern designs makes me happy... my favorite products are my Fiskars rotary cutter, the Hera marker, and my Sizzix machine. But I have so many others too, and I couldn't survive a day without my little 4" Fiskars scissors. Will have to try the Lite Steam a Seam one of these days!
Posted by: greetingarts | July 06, 2009 at 07:02 AM
Wow, your patterns are so inspiring! I love Joshua's new quilt...can't wait to see it all. And I may just have to buy your Oh Christmas Tree pattern...it is stunning!
Posted by: Barb | July 06, 2009 at 07:07 AM
The photos with Joshua made me smile. He SO loves that quilt, doesn't he?
Posted by: Frogdancer | July 06, 2009 at 07:10 AM
I love the Christmas Tree quilt. Very nice!
Sarah
Posted by: Sarah G | July 06, 2009 at 07:29 AM
Good gosh, I hope you got to sleep in - and I thought I was bad at 2:00 a.m. You have been busy, busy.
My favourite products are my thimble (first thing that goes on when I hand sew or quilt), a sharp pair of scissors and my glasses so I can see what I am doing.
Posted by: Dolores Sedore | July 06, 2009 at 07:29 AM
Oh! An even better tease/picture of that dotty quilt. Lucky Joshua! :0)
I am going to have to see about getting some Australian quilt magazine subscriptions. Or maybe you will get published in some Stateside magazines eventually. Who am I kidding- I am waiting for your book someday! LOL!
Posted by: Lisa | July 06, 2009 at 07:33 AM
Wow Kellie, I love the way that quilt has turned out - so beautiful, and Joshua is obviously very impressed! What a blog post - new patterns, new quilt, handy sewing things. I finally quilted the first quilt I pieced last night, and continually thought of how handy your tip about the gloves was. I bought them after you mentioned them in an earlier post and they really made such a difference! Now to find some steam-a-seam. And not in bed until after FOUR! Kellie, no wonder you can get so much done, but you must be continually sleep deprived. Enjoy your extremely well-earned holiday and hopefully we'll catch up once you return!
Posted by: Lara | July 06, 2009 at 07:35 AM
What a beautyfull patterns. They are sparkeling and full of joy!! I must find steam-a-seam somewhere. I have always problems with vlisofix. Only when it is just brand new it wont separate. Thanks for your inspiration. I even used your flower garden pillow pattern in scrapbooking. It amazing!!!
Posted by: Heleen | July 06, 2009 at 07:38 AM
What a Fabulous Post as Always...Love your Fabrics...can't wait to see what you make with these.....You are such an Inspiration...ThankYou...
cheers
Posted by: Maree .W | July 06, 2009 at 08:08 AM
Your star is really shining Kellie!! Wonderful wonderful patterns, all of them.
Posted by: meggie | July 06, 2009 at 08:15 AM
Your patterns are inspiring. I will check the gloves out at my supermarket today! My favourite tools are my needles, hoop, DMC threads and my lovely embroidery scissors. I also couldn't manage without the rotary cutter etc and machine to finish things off.Oh, to be able to use a machine like you do!
Posted by: Sylvia | July 06, 2009 at 08:28 AM
The new quilt is looking good Kellie. Hope you enjoy your well-deserved sunny holiday - looking forward to a coffee when you return. The photos for your new patterns look like they have come up well too.
Posted by: Jan | July 06, 2009 at 08:29 AM
When I look at your work I just drool! It is just so beautiful. I just so love all your patterns. The Flower Garden Pillow and How does your Garden Grow are just so cheery. Lucky Joshua - I love that quilt.
[email protected]
Posted by: Laine | July 06, 2009 at 08:38 AM
I definitely could use some scissors that don't hurt my hand after using them for more than a minute. I'll have to look into those.
I also like the idea of having softer appliques. Another product to test out.
I haven't found too many must have items yet. I'm still testing out different products to find what works for me. I have realized that it is very useful to have many different size rulers and cutting mats though. I just need to add to my collection a bit.
Joshua looks like he is loving his quilt :)
Posted by: Robin (rsislandcrafts) | July 06, 2009 at 08:41 AM
The Kai scissors are great aren't they, I have a few different pairs. You can tell Joshua loves his quilt! Lots of lovely patterns to drool over, and as usual, they are beauties. Have a great holiday.
Posted by: Janet | July 06, 2009 at 08:47 AM
I am new to blogging and have just discovered your wonderful blog!:)
I agree with you about the Ansell gloves. I also found out about them from Deb Louie.
My latest "best friend" is a very fine needle threader. I also love the BSR on my Bernina!
Your patterns look very inspirational. I love your colours; very bright and cheerful.
Posted by: Miriam | July 06, 2009 at 09:21 AM
congrats to the winners
I think I need to try the steam a seam it sounds good
your pics are all so yummy thank you for the inspiration
hugs Beth
Posted by: Beth Dasecke | July 06, 2009 at 09:29 AM
I love it all! Congratulations to the winners. Thanks for all you talent!
Posted by: Diane | July 06, 2009 at 09:53 AM
I can see why Joshua doesn't want to share his quilt it looks so bright and cheery.
Posted by: Leanne | July 06, 2009 at 09:57 AM
The puffy polka dots are adorable and fun. Is there additional batting to make it puff so much? Also quite envious of that luscious stack of gorgeous materials~
Posted by: margaret | July 06, 2009 at 10:12 AM
Joshua looks very proud of his new quilt! Love the fabrics you are taking on holidays with you - have a great trip!
Posted by: Lisa | July 06, 2009 at 10:21 AM
Kellie,
your patterns are just too much. They are beautiful. That Christmas tree is very nice. Do you have the quilt? I'd love to see a picture of the design up close. Your stuff is takes my breath away.
Robin in Virginia USA
Posted by: Robin C | July 06, 2009 at 10:27 AM
You are a powerhouse such complicated patterns how do you find the time- Fantastic work
Posted by: Nicky | July 06, 2009 at 10:56 AM
The colours in that stack of fabric are just inspirational, sunshine and lollypops spring to mind on this dull, cold winters day here. The new patterns are fabulous, I love the Christmas tree :o)
Lizzie
Posted by: Elizabeth McMahon | July 06, 2009 at 11:02 AM
I must say that my Bernina 440 sewing machine is my favorite item in my sewing room! I purchased it after seeing all the beautiful work you created with yours and have to say that It was one of the best investments I have made!
I have two quilts in progress from your patterns and will never get bored looking at either of them! Thank you for continuing to create such beautiful masterpieces!
Posted by: Lynn T | July 06, 2009 at 11:09 AM
Gorgeous fabrics! Love that quilt full of dots. I have a Joshua too!
Posted by: Trisha | July 06, 2009 at 11:12 AM
I just adore your patterns, I will have to try to get my hubby to let me have his credit card for a moment!
Seriously though, i would love to do one of your creations one day.
Just love Joshua's quilt.
Posted by: Sue Niven | July 06, 2009 at 11:16 AM
Congrats to everyone who won your wonderful giveaways. Joshua looks so cute with his quilt and I am sure he will be waiting eagerly for its return. Your new patterns look great too, will have to tell my sister all about them.
Posted by: sue | July 06, 2009 at 11:23 AM
I love the Christmas tree quilt from the first time i saw it. I'm so glad you are making up a pattern for it. I can't wait to get my sewing room all set up so I can order this pattern.
I'll probably be ordering Meg's garden too.
I love your work
Posted by: Norma | July 06, 2009 at 11:26 AM
Wow! Those fabrics are so yummy! I love the colors!
Posted by: Loralynn | July 06, 2009 at 11:36 AM
The new patterns that are coming out are amazing! Yay-you!! And that quilt Joshua is laying on is adorable. My favorite sewing "thing" is the time I have now that I am retired. I missed sewing so much for 25+ years because of the time, energy and commuting to work. I have so many projects I want to do now, I'm still short of time, but I can do them.
Posted by: Mary on Lake Pulaski | July 06, 2009 at 11:40 AM
Ack -- for the 1st time spied the monsters on the new quilt -- so exciting!
Oh, and I also love Lite Steam-a-Seam 2. I have a whole big roll of it!
One of my favorite tools is my HUGE 20" square. So much easier to square things up, or cut wider-than-6-inch strips with the big ruler.
Posted by: nanann | July 06, 2009 at 11:43 AM
Joshua is one lucky fellow, what a stunning quilt. I've just come over from Quilt Taffy and am I glad I did. Oh please include me for the chance to win one of your brilliant patterns.
Posted by: Carolyn cdn | July 06, 2009 at 11:55 AM