Quiltlover's News

Where the creativity blossoms

2012-01-23T14:32:00.002-06:00

My Studio, if you can call it that, I certainly do and it is all my space. Once a nice size master bedroom with a little walk in closet and an ensuite master bath, complete with jetted tub, now the jetted tub holds packaged batting, the ironing board is in front of the sink, and the walk in closet has shelves on 3 sides and holds my bolts of fabric, projects I am working on, and boxes of fat quarters and bolts of backing.

It looks like chaos to others perhaps, but it is organized chaos, and it is my space.

Various dressers under my long arm quilting machine as well as against a wall hold all kinds of threads, stencils and other tools of the trade. My cutting and sewing table is a kitchen table purchased years ago with a composite top, perfect for what I do. A fantastic light system over my long arm is outfitted with daylight bulbs, giving me bright daylight anytime, day or night. A wire basket shelf holds some of the pantographs I use frequently.

I love my studio, it is not ideal, but it is the best I have and it is organized so everything is within easy reach.

Cathy....It is Done!

2012-01-13T09:11:00.000-06:00

On December 1st I was blessed with a brand new beautiful Grand Daughter. Arley Jane is her name and she is a perfect little bundle.

Although I make lots of beautiful Quilts, I needed one that was different from all the rest and I asked cathy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/clubaloha?ref=ss_profile to make me one of her beautiful and unique Owl Quilt tops in bright pink and green colours. She did an exceptional job making this gorgeous top and I just finished quilting it with teardrop meanders all over.

I know that AJ will get to enjoy this Quilt for many years to come. It is well made and well quilted, even on the big appliqué owls and the tree trunk.

Check out cathy's store, she has many beautiful Quilts, unique Boxer Shorts for him or her, pet collars and other one of a kind gifts for any and every occasion.

Thank you Cathy for making this special Quilt so Special.

2012-01-12T10:14:00.000-06:00

Here are a few new items I have been working on and finished. my sewing room looks like a bomb went off in there and my fabric closet will throw fabric back at me if I try to put anything else in there. Time to get going and use the scraps again and make some Quiltlover's Scrappy Quilts. In the meantime ... I just love these prints and hope you do too.

2012-01-08T13:32:00.000-06:00

My Revenue goals for 2012 are pretty high. In order to achieve that, I have to have product to sell. Owning your own business and wanting to succeed, i.e., make money to pay the bills, not just to cover the cost, takes a lot of hard work and dedication. I work my business 24/7, and have reaped the rewards with record Sales in 2011. I am currently part of a labor force survey conducted by The Government of Canada and was asked recently how many hours a day I work. Well, there are days I work 16 hours a day and it was funny....that was not computing in their computer software and outside the scope of acceptability....what a farce!

Anyway, this gorgeous Quilt was in the making from 0800 this morning and was listed, completely finished, shortly after noon. There is no compromise in quality, either in materials or workmanship...top value all around. I don't sell anything I wouldn't be proud to own myself, and if you don't believe me...check out my Feedback http://www.etsy.com/people/QuiltLover/feedback

2012-01-07T14:25:00.000-06:00

Passion Tea with a few pieces of Chai Tea to round if off and a gorgeous border of co-ordinating colours....another custom piece for Sylvia, complete with minky backing and quilted pillow shams. A versatile hobbs 80/20 cotton blend batting and Tiger Swirl quilting pattern executed with Butterscotch variegated thread make this set complete. I love it and I hope you will too. Thank you for returning to me to make these Quilts for your home, truly the best compliment I could ever get.

2012-01-05T17:08:00.001-06:00

I received my order of pantographs a few days ago and one of them just begged to be used on this Quilt I made for a special customer. The fabric line is called Earl Grey and is a batik Collection by Hoffman of California. The Quilt itself is a queen size 90" x 105" and needed to be masculine. Each of the batik pieces in this collection is full of design elements and I have a hard time cutting these up into small pieces, so each fat quarter was cut into 10" blocks and then randomly sewn into the Quilt top. A 7" border of co-ordinating silver coloured Batik as well as a rich chocolate brown Minky and cotton batting make the Quilt complete.

The pantograph is called "Dazzle" by Lorien Quilting and I just love the ease with which it is executed as well as the gender neutral design. I used a silver coloured thread and I think it looks "smashing". I know my customer will be pleased.

2012-01-05T07:03:00.000-06:00

A beautiful collection of Robert Kaufman Asian fabrics, along with a mint green and aubergine coloured Fusions was used to make this gorgeous Quilt. I used the Quilt in a Day flying Geese ruler for the Flying Geese border and it was fast! Love it when things work out.

I am not too crazy about the thread I used to quilt this piece. The Aurifil is just a bit to thick, or perhaps the needle was too small, I don't like the way the stitches are so pronounced. Perhaps the colour purple is too dark? It could have been lighter. So many variables. Every now and then this happens. As a rule I make the right choices, in my mind anyway....and it is still a gorgeous Quilt!

2012-01-03T21:28:00.000-06:00

Clean and simple, yet so appealing and very versatile. I have made a few of these Whole Cloth Coverlets/Quilts and decided to add a fun and fresh bed runner and 2 Accent cushions to this set. The Hits and Hearts the set has received during its short listing time tell me that it is as popular as its predecessors and will probably not last long.

A new year, a new beginning, a new venue

2012-01-02T20:05:00.002-06:00

I have been hard at work beefing up my inventory with some new and old favourites. The absolute gorgeous Serenity Collection was used to make this elegant generous lap Quilt.

Bright and beautiful, happy and welcoming a new day, the African Women are dancing and playing with their children in this one of a kind queen size bed Quilt

I was able to make another Quilt like the one that was "lost" after it was delivered at a customer's address in California, one of 3 packages that happened to at the same address, what a violation and disappointment something like that is. The Quilt is gorgeous and I hope that whoever has the 4 Quilts they are not entitled to.....well I will leave that sentiment up the the reader to finish.

Here is the Dreamcatcher Quilt made with Joel dewberry "Heirloom" collection

Northern Lights Log Cabin Quilt

2011-10-09T13:29:00.002-06:00

It is a gorgeous Fall day here in northwestern Saskatchewan. The sun is shining and the golden leaves of our Poplar Trees are just about all down. Hubby decided today was the day to put the sweeper on the Tractor and sweep all the leaves of the 5 or so acres of grass and it is quite the job, gotta love his enthusiasm.

I decided to machine quilt this log cabin I had sitting in my pile and list it. It turned out just fine, with a fay Feather pattern, Aqua variegated thread and 80/20 cotton blend batting.

Grandmas Fan Quilt

2011-10-05T21:06:00.000-06:00

I tried something new recently. I found a pattern called Grandmas Fan made by Quiltsmart with printed interfacing. It was surprisingly easy but very time consuming to put together. I don't think I will do another of these, but I have many other Quiltsmart patterns I will try in the future. The Fan Quilt was fun to quilt, all free motion, no stencils or other tools. The quilting really raises the Fans and it looks really neat.

Of course, this beautiful, old fashion Quilt is for sale and listed in my store. just click the picture and it will take you there.

Wednesday Finds

2011-10-04T20:07:00.001-06:00

I am going to be a grandma sometime towards the end of November. The little bundle will be a girl with a cute and sassy name. I have had lots of fun buying things for the nursery, which is done in green and pink. Of course Etsy is a never ending source of beautiful "must have" and "gotta have" things like these

and of course I had one of these made

and we need one of these

and one of these

I could go on and one, these are just a sampling of the beautiful creations available for baby on Etsy and I love shopping for them.

Tuesday Treats

2011-10-04T09:12:00.000-06:00

I am a chocoholic and love mint chocolate, nougat, chewy candy and many other delectable delights. This Nougat is "to die" for, made fresh just for you

Mint Chocolate Truffles...oh my....

and who can resist chocolate fudge like this.....

Just a few choices from the many you can find on Etsy, enjoy!

2011-10-02T08:41:00.001-06:00

With October comes the golden leaves, cooler temperature, Thanksgiving for us in Canada and of course Halloween. I love the colours this time of year brings and I think they are well represented in this gorgeous Quilt http://www.etsy.com/listing/78110448/king-bed-quilt-reversible-sunset-sunrise a beautiful addition to a bedroom.

I found this gorgeous wreaths while browsing for fall decorations and had to share with you.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/30564417/corn-husk-halloween-wreath?ref=hp_tt_yt

http://www.etsy.com/listing/75591525/halloween-wreath-front-door-creepy?ref=hp_tt_yt

Happy October.

Circle of Life

2011-09-03T07:51:00.001-06:00

I fell in love with this pattern some time ago. it is called Circle of Life designed by Jaqueline de Jonge. As soon as the pattern arrived in my mail box, I knew this was way beyond my patience and piecing skill and I contacted my resident expert Maggie, of http://www.etsy.com/shop/Patchmaker?ref=ss_profile to see if she would piece this for me. Of course, she said, so I went of and selected the fabrics, all from the sun and moon collection, some kona black for the background around the circles and a few yards of silvery dotted black to compliment the spikes/spires. Off to Nova Scotia it all went and in no time flat, this arrived at my door. Once we do so minor corrections to the border, which was supposed to have the same silvery dotted black instead of the kona black and be finished with a 2 inch strip all around, I can get to quilting this piece. I am looking forward to that. Maggie did an outstanding job. Thank you...I love every inch of this Quilt! You are tops in my books!

Happy September

2011-09-01T13:01:00.001-06:00

Isn't it incredible how time flies? The older I get the faster time goes by. Fall is just around the corner and I have been busy stocking http://www.quiltlover.etsy.com with new merchandise. The past 8 months have been incredibly busy, with over 108 Quilts sold and numerous machine quilting services.

I added something new, considering the "camo" craze going on across the nation, I have purchased some RealTree Camouflage Cotton and will be making some Quilts for my Store. This one http://www.etsy.com/listing/80859155/reserved-for-ken-camouflage-twin-bed is a custom order and reserved, but more are coming soon.

I also have a new Face Book Business page and would love it if you "like" it. Check it out

http://www.facebook.com/pages/QuiltLover/196964900370731?sk=info#!/pages/QuiltLover/196964900370731?sk=info

My Life outside of Quilting

2011-07-26T15:25:00.000-06:00

I don't spend every day quilting, sometimes i take some R n R and these past few days where spend on some of the lakes in northwestern Saskatchewan fishing. I have to say we didn't get skunked and came home each day with a nice catch.


I am glad this Bear disappeared before we came ashore!

Custom Order Wedding Gift

2011-05-28T09:38:00.000-06:00

Just completed, and so lovely. My Customer wanted a white center and neutral border breaks. I used Roc-Lon Perma Press muslin for both front and back and a Maxiloc white thread on top and on the bottom. A reversible Whole Cloth Quilt for sure and my Quiltazoid sure got a workout on this one.

2011-02-13T21:17:00.000-06:00

This Quilt has been keeping me busy for the last few days. I have pondered how to quilt it for a few weeks. My Customer brought me the picture with the hand quilting design that was done one the original Quilt, but it didn't sit right with me. She gave me the freedom to do as I please and that did it. I used a QD 100% washable Wool batting, and the tight stipple made the baskets "pop" just what we wanted. the tight feathers in the sashings are raised because of the batting and the outer border has a feather meander. Densely quilted in Sofine Lace white thread top and bottom.....outstanding!

Radiant Star in Batik

2011-02-08T10:31:00.000-06:00

Pat is a dear friend and a wonderful Quilter. She recently completed this Radiant Star with beautiful earthtone Batiks. She left the quilting up to me, just said " lots of quilting and make it outstanding!" Well, I hope the job I did pleases her...... I used a Orange/yellow variegated thread to quilt the star in a medium stipple, a leafy filler in the narrow border, and outline stitch the pieced border.

The light border has a teardrop meander filler, and the set in triangle are quilted with hooked feathers and a spine filled with pebbles. The set in squares feature a motif from R&S Designer Boards called Fire Lily, which in turn is surrounded by a ring of pebbles and hooked feathers to fill the spaces of the square. I love it, and hope Pat loves it too. A truly unique Quilt, and I love the freedom she gives me to be creative!

A little shabby, a lot of chic

2011-02-05T16:31:00.000-06:00

Soft and feminine, roses and gentle blossoms in soft pastels and taupe, soft as a cloud batting, a delightful double/queen Quilt, a perfect compliment to antique and vintage furniture.

The Double Plume machine quilting pattern, executed in Superior SoFine, is a perfect compliment to the design and fabrics by Robyn Pandolph.

Serene Elegance, another lovely Quilt in dusty rose, smokey blue and taupe, complete with Pillow Cases and Accent Cushions. I used Metro Embroidery Thread in a champagne color to machine quilt the beautiful and timeless Baroque Hearts pattern all over.

2010-12-14T08:59:00.002-06:00

This is a Radiant Star with an attitude! They all say something but this one is special. The top was given to me by a dear friend to do with as I pleased. The colors are perfect and the fabrics are Willowberry winter and Fairy Frosts, a wonderful combination. A generous queen size, lots of open areas....perfect for my Quiltizoid and feathers. I used a lofty wool batting and commercial grade embroidery thread adding sheen and depth. As soon as this Christmas rush machine quilting is over I will make 2 quilted pillow shams and then it will go on my bed.
Thanks so much Nancy...I will treasure your gift always!

2010-11-24T22:53:00.000-06:00

What a wonderful surprise! My Winter Roses Quilt was featured in a Treasury today which just made Front Page.

Screen print did not work for me, so I will copy and paste the Treasury. Isn't it gorgeous?

Ada Coat LittleHouses Reproduction Art P...michelemaule

city 4 - 11x14.5 o...shantishanty mint green half tw...eldenwacl...

Red Flowers by Bro...VedaArts Set of Matching En...NineRed

Primitive Country ...ACOUNTRYWAY WINTER ROSES 58 x...QuiltLover

SALE Black Weekend...LolasRoom 7x7 Ride 2 f2images

2010-11-24T10:35:00.002-06:00

It has been an incredibly busy month for me, and to top it all of....November is just about finished! I have sold an incredible 16 Quilts this month. many of my "ugly ducklings" are gone to new homes and I am constantly told that they are no "ugly ducklings" at all!

I just listed 2 new Quilts , http://www.etsy.com/listing/62866906/serene-elegance-generous-lap-quilt-58-x SERENE ELEGANCE and http://www.etsy.com/listing/62794001/winter-roses-58-x-77-in-minty-green WINTER ROSES

A small DESTASH is available, 2.69 yards of ORIGINS fabric along with some selvage edges and border ends. A great price, made even better if you use Coupon Code "HAPPYHOLIDAYSTOYOU" at checkout time. It will give an additional 10% off before shipping. PS. This coupon code applies to anything else in my Store as well and it good until December 25th.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62454594/269-yards-plus-pieces-of-origins-by

Just finished machine quilting this absolutely adorable Heart and Home Block of the Month Quilt for a new Customer.

I hope she likes it and will be a returning customer. I just accepted my last "custom quilting" job for the year, will take time off this year to enjoy the Holidays.

UGLY DUCKLING SALE

2010-10-31T11:35:00.000-06:00

What do you do when your storage space is over run with gorgeous Quilts? Sometimes I make a Quilt and it is just not a favorite, the colors are not right and consequently it sits on the shelf for months. I decided to make an "UGLY DUCKLING SALE" section in my Etsy store and just moved 15 lap Quilts with a 20% price reduction into it. I just don't have the room to keep them for myself and my girls are groaning and moaning about their overload of Quilts already.

So check it out, great value, the same top quality fabric and workmanship...pass it on, buy a "Hug" for a Mom or friend a daughter, yourself.....

http://www.etsyonsale.com/shop/QuiltLover

Cappuccino Star Log Cabin Quilt

2010-10-29T22:05:00.000-06:00

I recently had the pleasure to quilt this gorgeous Quilt for a Customer and have to admit it was hard to give it back to her. She did a wonderful job piecing it, straight and flat it was and the color combination was terrific. I used a QD Wool batting for definition and warmth, beige thread in the light area, brown in the darks and the continuous curves in the Star where made with red thread. We are both very pleased with the results.

Apart from quilting this gorgeous Quilt I added some new Quilts to my store to replace those I sold, Two beautiful Batik Quilts, this one is called "Let it Snow"

This Lap Quilt was made with a sumptuous collection of earth colored Batiks and I called it "Autumn in Saskatchewan"...just gorgeous

My Mini Quilt is here

2010-10-18T12:34:00.000-06:00

It arrived today, my Mini Quilt from the APQS secret partner swap. LOVE it. The tiniest log cabin strips in seasonal colors arranged into a nice centerpiece for my table. Beautiful fabrics, beautiful quilting. Thanks so much Cheri, I will treasure it forever.

What a lovely life these guys have

2010-10-09T15:40:00.000-06:00

They wake me up at the crack of dawn, I have to open the door and brave the cold air rushing in so they can go outside and do their business, then they come back in and guess what? Jump right on the bed and go back to sleep! Meanwhile, I am wide awake...... (excuse the unmade bed, couldn't resist the shot)

On another note, I didn't do what i had planned for today, namely paint the Shed, instead I cleaned the Studio and made this little Quilt.

With the softest backing, this is truly a cuddle blanket "first class". On another note, my "All mixed up" Quilt was purchased today and is going to London, England. Hurray! Isn't the Internet a marvelous place?

2010-10-07T18:12:00.000-06:00

What is it about Scrappy Quilts that makes them so desirable? Is it because they are colorful, fit in just about anywhere, look cuddly and cozy? These are 2 Bed Quilts I sold today. I never get tired making this pattern, each Quilt different even if the same fabrics are used. There are 2 waiting to get onto my longarm frame right now, so I best get busy!

2010-10-06T15:47:00.000-06:00

These are the cutest kitties you ever saw. Each one has its own personality! I just finished quilting this Quilt for a Customer, free form spirals in the Pinwheel blocks, stipple around the Cats, loops in the black and white border and meander in the flower border. all with a pastel variegated thread. Kept the quilting simple, I wanted the Cats to be prominent and jump at the viewer.

2010-10-05T15:26:00.000-06:00

I just finished a custom order for a queen/king size quilt. customer supplied the fabric, layer cakes in the Origins collection by Basic Grey for Moda...love the colors. A simple Quilt, sew the squares together 10 in a row, for 10 rows and bordered by a 6" border. Machine quilted using 100% washable wool batting, a quilting pattern called " Featheration" and a polyester thread in off white adding depth and sheen.

A most glorious time of year

2010-10-03T08:02:00.000-06:00

Autumn...I love it. the colors, the smell in the woods, the sunsets and sunrise. I take a break now and then and go for drives with my camera, one never knows what comes before the lens.

2010-09-22T20:41:00.001-06:00

Life has been a bit hectic lately. Lots of sales, custom orders and machine quilting. 3 years ago when I started this business I was worried I would not have enough business, now I have a hard time keeping up with it...but, I love it and it keeps me on my toes.

I received a couple beautiful, well made, and attractive dog collars from Monterey, Ca today. Check out this
http://www.clubaloha.net/ website. These collars are a must for the well dressed canine or feline. Service is wonderful and friendly, shipping is prompt, and the product is definitely unique. Here are Miss Molly and Misty sporting their new neck wear...cute aren't they?

for more great, unique Tote Bags, Boxer Shorts, Aprons and Quilts, please visit

http://www.etsy.com/shop/clubaloha

tell her Monika send you and have fun shopping.

Mini Quilt Swap

2010-09-14T18:02:00.000-06:00

My secret Swap Partner received her mini Quilt today and is very happy with what I made her. I used my favorite pattern, a heart blossom by Lynette Jensen and my favorite colors, gold, beige, moss green and burned red, and Robert Kaufman "Fusion" fabric. It turned out real nice, with a feather border, a leaf treatment in the inner border and various fillers throughout the center block. A label, embroidered with all pertinent information, and a hanging sleeve complete the project.

Now I just have to wait patiently to receive my Mini Quilt.......

Coming out of hiding!

2010-08-30T18:25:00.000-06:00

I just received an e-mail from a faithful follower asking if I was alright as I had not posted in awhile. Thank you Linda, yes, I am just fine. I am absolutely flattered that you would look for me, that is so nice of you...here is a big thank you hug!!!!.

So I will show you what has occupied my time, apart from a few other things, but this project was the most time consuming. It was 4 days of steady work, took a 3000yard cone of thread and I forgot to count the bobbins, but there were many. Before I show the pictures (I know it doesn't work that way) I want to tell you that i bought this Quilt top from "Aunt Beas Quiltshop" on E-Bay some time ago. A great source for those that want to practice machine quilting techniques without spending a fortune on making a top. this Quilt top cost an amazing $65.00 plus shipping, unbelievable for the amount of work and detail it contains. I teamed the top with a Quilters Dream 100% washable Wool batting and a perma press Muslin backing. The machine quilting consists of millions of tiny shells, a gazillion tiny stipples, and some feathers around the center block. The inner border features over/under feathers and the outer border some swirly whirly leafy ferny things.

I am not sure what to do with this Quilt. it is too small for my bed, it measures 92" x 92", perfect for a queen size bed. Anyone want an old fashioned Quilt for a guest room? Cottage? Wedding gift?????? I am available to offers. Here are the pictures. Nice Comments welcome.

THE QUILT IS FINISHED

2010-08-15T14:04:00.000-06:00

My Customer just picked up her Quilt and was extremely happy with the results. I got a big Hug, a heartfelt "thank You" and of course the $$$$. I did the final trimming for her, so now the binding will go on which will be the same color as the Stars. What a beautiful Quilt it is, full of visual appeal and the Quilters Dream 100% washable Wool Batting allows for so much quilting definition and will never flatten out. It will be a family heirloom for sure. Thank You so much Patti, for trusting me to quilt it for you. I appreciate your confidence in my ability. I learned a lot from quilting this Quilt, the over/under feathers in the sashing is a new tecnique for me and turned out quite respectable. I love stencils but am always hesitant to use them...don't know why, I am pleased with the result. As always there is room for improvement....but then....

PROGRESS on White & blue Muslin Quilt

2010-08-14T12:04:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report that I am making great progress and I am delighted with the results. Figured out what to do with the border, filled out the stencil work a bit more and put a little lace work around the flower block. Once I am on the top, I will turn the Quilt and quilt the sashing.

I love my job!!!

2010-08-12T14:47:00.000-06:00

I have this beautiful Quilt to machine quilt, basic blue stars set in white Muslin. My Customer wants lots of dense quilting, and there is plenty yet do do in the areas already quilted. I though I would show you my progress as I go along.

Baby got sprayed by a Skunk

2010-08-11T12:58:00.000-06:00

So last saturday my Siberian Husky, 9 months old, got sprayed by a skunk. In a desperate bid to find something that would ease the smell, I posted on my APQS Forum. The ladies there don't just know everything about machine quilting and the gadgets that go with it, but are worldly in many other subjects. I just received this response from one of my quilting friends in alaska and had to share....just precious!

DESIGNER MEDLEY another gorgeous Bed Quilt

2010-08-11T10:55:00.000-06:00

I recently received a beautiful collection of Fat Quarters from http://www.etsy.com/shop/imaginefabric , perfectly cut and neatly folded. Just loved the bundle. Perfect collection for my scrappy pattern, so here it is. I wasn't too sure while this Quilt was on my Frame, but, boy, when I put it on the Bed to take pictures, I just loved it. I know this Quilt will be another favorite of many.

Harvest Spice is finished

2010-08-08T09:53:00.001-06:00

It is finished, except for the binding, which will go on sometime today. The big printed blocks were quilted with a tiny teardrop meander, the setting triangles have swirly feathers, the pieced blocks have continuous curves in the seams, there is some stipple, beautiful feathered red border, stipple around the motives in the outer border and stencil work in the red corner blocks. I am very pleased with this one.

Another Challenge in my Life

2010-08-04T10:51:00.000-06:00

Just finished this beauty. A Block of the Months from 10 years or so ago. I finished one last year or so and it has a new home in Australia. I used an all over pattern called "Come dance with me" and it turned out gorgeous. Since then I have machine quilted many Quilts and even tackled feathers with success, so I am looking to custom quilt this Harvest Spice. Any ideas from my fellow MQ'ers are very welcome.

My Sales are way up there!

2010-08-04T07:07:00.000-06:00

I just can't believe my Sales so far this year. Considering Quilts are "non essentials" I have sold 47 Quilts through my Etsy Store this year, 15 through private Sales in my home. 23 of these Quilts were queen/king size with Pillow Shams and Toss Cushion Covers. I listed this fun and happy Lap Quilt http://www.etsy.com/transaction/32364879 yesterday and it sold in the first hour along with one that had been listed for several months.

Two more of my newest additions are BAMBOO GARDEN

and QUILTLOVER'S SCRAPPY. Did I mention I love the Internet?

MINE, mine, mine....all mine

2010-07-26T17:36:00.003-06:00

Yes, selfish me! I put it on my bed, I took pictures, edited them, wrote the description, added the price and was just about to hit the "list" button, when I had a change of heart. There is something about this set that just screams "keep me", and I listened. A friend was very interested in the slightly used Quilt I had on my bed, and bought it, so now I have room for this one. There are still some bits and pieces of fabric left, so if you want one of your very own, please, contact me soon. This is/was one of my popular sellers, with a Set in Australia, Alberta, Michigan and Massachusetts, each one unique, pretty and reversible. This one however, is ALL MINE!!!!

Those gorgeous Batik Cathedral Window Pillows were purchased some time ago from http://www.warmnfuzzies.etsy.com

A very creative fabric artist with excellent customer service.

UNIQUELYNANCY.etsy.com

2010-07-25T17:59:00.000-06:00

Whether you are looking for a new and unique Purse, a Tote Bag, a Wall Hanging or a one of a kind Quilt, you must visit http://www.uniquelynancy.etsy.com

A versatile Fabric Artist, her work is bright, fun and unique. I can personally attest to the quality of Nancy's work, I machine quilt some of her creations. Her seams are very precise, always pressed "just so", and her fabrics are top quality. I look forward to each and every one of Nancy's Quilt tops. This Maple Leaf Quilt http://www.etsy.com/listing/34906995/maple-leaf-quilt-double is a personal favorite of mine. Check it out, visit http://www.uniquelynancy.etsy.com for some wonderful fiber art, tell her Quiltlover sent you, and have fun shopping.

MEGAN'S QUILT - Sunflower Illusion

2010-07-18T10:39:00.000-06:00

It is finished and it is gorgeous, if I say so myself. I made 2 non quilted pillow Shams and 2 non quilted 18" Toss Cushion Covers to go with it, truly a Bed Quilt Ensemble.

The pictures do not do this set justice, the quilting really does not show, I cannot get the light right on this one. The mustard yellow Minke shows the details and is oh so soft.

Here is a picture of the whole Quilt, which was also submitted to the Judy Niemeyer website.

I hope Megan and her Man like this Quilt...if not, I am sure there will be a few takers. Just in case, let me know who you are, perhaps I can have a contest????

STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER

2010-07-15T21:10:00.000-06:00

I just had to take a break today and do something for my store. It seems that it has been forever since I added a new piece, so I decided to frame some blocks I had made awhile back with black Kona cotton, add sashing in a marble like Northcott Stonehenge, quilt it with my newest pattern called Novaya Zhizn and voila....STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER is finished. I love it, it is bright and will be a conversation piece wherever it may end up.

Saying Good Bye is never easy

2010-07-11T21:57:00.001-06:00

The last few days have been heart wrenching and sad for us. We said good bye to 2 loved and long time companions. Our little Peaches has been with us 17 years and Phayzer has enriched our life for the last 10 years, he came to us when he was 5 years old. Both had been suffering from those ailments associated with old age and we decided to end their discomfort. Our lives are so empty at the moment, even though we still have 2 beautiful fur babies with us. We found a nice spot on our acreage where we laid them to rest, they are at home now and with us always.

We went for a quad ride today, a route we used to take with them all the time, through Boreal Forest with sweet smell of Pine and Tamarack and wild flowers everywhere. Several Deer, a Partridge, Storks, even a brown Bear crossed our path and the sun was shining in full glory. Miss Molly, the little Terrier, and Misty blue eyes, Siberian Husky, loved the ride, but missed their friends. A beautiful ending to an incredibly taxing week.

New York Beauty meets hot pink Minkie

2010-07-03T17:21:00.000-06:00

Yes, another. But are they ever the same? I think not. This one is all bright and happy fabrics, full of life and beauty. I had fun once again machine quilting this and I teamed it with a hot pink Minkie (sp?) and a Quilters Dream orient batting. Pure luxury! Machine quilted with variegated thread, feathers, mini shells, rays....a very nice Quilt.

Food for my babies - not quilting related

2010-06-28T13:21:00.001-06:00

I just cooked up another batch of "dog food", which consists of 2 lbs of lean hamburger meat, 3 boxes of Beef Noodle Hamburger Helper, and a small bag of mixed vegetables. I usually cook up a batch every Monday and my dogs get a bowl every day, a small helping for the little ones, a double for the big one. I have done this for my dogs for over 2 years now after watching a segment on TV about what goes into commercial dog food. I still supplement with dry food, which is available to them all day long. None of my babies overeat, none are fat, and all are extremely healthy, the hair I vacuum off the carpet 3 times a day can attest to that!

This is Phayzer, a Chinese Crested Powderpuff, 15 years old. Both his parents are "Hairless". We have had him now for 10 years. Poor baby is deaf, blind on one eye, and has extremely bad teeth. He puts his head on my pillow every night to go to sleep.

My little Peaches, 17 years old this July 25th, the gentlest and most loving fur baby I have ever known. We got her when she was just 5 weeks old and she spent the first few month of her life laying on the dash of a Freightliner and Peterbilt Truck as we were driving all over the USA and Canada. We call her our "million miler puppy". She sleeps most of the day now and I expect she won't wake up one of these days.

Meet Miss Molly, a feisty little Terrier Mix, just over 2 years old. She was a rescue puppy and she has the nicest little "drumsticks", that is her nick name. We love her to pieces, her energy is never ending.

This blue eyed beauty is Misty, a Siberian Husky, and the cause of all the hair on the carpet. Misty is just 8 month young and the biggest "suckie baby" I have ever known. She loves to ride on the back of the ATV and I can not go anywhere without taking her along. She is very sociable and loves everyone and everything.

No more dogs for me.......(last famous words, right????)

My WIP

2010-06-24T12:39:00.000-06:00

Here is what i am currently working on, the top is made and the pillows are together, now to get it quilted! All batik, gorgeous color, gorgeous fabric......did I say that I am a Fabric Addict?????

2010-06-12T08:19:00.000-06:00

Sunflower Illusion, a Judy Niemeyer Paper Piecing design, is ready to be quilted. I think it is just stunning. This Quilt is earmarked for my daughter and her man. I am thinking of machine quilting this beauty with embroidery thread to give the stitches more "luster", some cross hatching in one border, feathers in another...it will be fun to do. Maybe use Fireside for the backing and washable wool batting. I love the wool batting, it adds not only warmth, but so much definition to the quilting.

The many uses of a Quilt

2010-06-08T15:42:00.000-06:00

I recently had a custom order for a Quilt that could be hung on a Wall. This is what my customer and I created. Isn't it stunning in that setting? So simple, yet very elegant. I am very pleased to see it hang so well.

A custom order I just completed is this gorgeous bed Quilt, queen size, made with the Gypsy collection by felicity Miller for Free Spirit. Wild, bold,. romantic, soft.....just lovely.

Now I have 15 Customer Quilts waiting to be quilted, and I am working on the "family heirloom" Quilt for my daughter. I am not really short of work.......

SOLD already!

2010-06-05T15:01:00.001-06:00

The last of my Sandi Henderson Farmer's Market Fabric, some Amy Butler and Michael Miller went into this gorgeous queen size Quilt ensemble. It is so bright and happy, well quilted and very attractive. I can see this in a log cabin, sea side cottage, or a bright and breezy bedroom. This fabric line has been very popular and I have made several Quilts of various sized which now have new homes all over the world, including Madrid, Spain!

Just sold, going to a new home in Australia.

2010-06-02T15:41:00.000-06:00

For the lazy hazy days of Summer, and anytime a bit of color is wanted or needed. I decided to do something real easy today. 2 years ago I made 2 sets like these and both sold almost immediately. This is the last of the fabric, I just couldn't bear to cut this into little pieces, so I left it whole, quilted it and then cut it into appropriate pieces and bound them. I kept a couple of Place mats for my patio table, the color is so cheery and bright.

2010-05-25T20:19:00.000-06:00

I have a new Quilt in the works. Had lots of Farmer's Market, some Good Folks, and a bit of Amy Butler left over, so decided to make another queen size Quilt. I am not sure yet if I will add a light border to the Quilt, like I did in Summer Sunshine. I am leaning towards a white border cause I love to feather it. In any event, it certainly will be a happy and bright Quilt, sure to add sunshine even on the dreariest of days.

Eastern Passage a New York Beauty, definitely

2010-05-22T07:44:00.000-06:00

Eastern Passage is the last of the Quilt Tops I purchased from http://www.etsy.com/shop/Patchmaker and looked like this
before I added borders as well as a couple rows of batik pieces to make this Quilt bigger.

I decided to machine quilt this Beauty with khaki, red and purple threads, Quilters Dream washable wool batting for definition, and I used a Fossil Fern in blue/purple/orange for the backing. The outer border features feathers (I am in a feather craze at the moment), the red border has a leaf meander, and the blocks each have individual treatment. I love this Quilt hand have not yet decided if I will keep it, or sell it.

Eastern Passage - named for a small fishing village in Nova Scotia, Canada.

More New York Beauties

2010-05-20T22:25:00.000-06:00

I just finished a couple of New York Beauties for a customer. I loved quilting these, very precise piecing, pretty colors. I used lots of feathers for fillers, along with stipples and other background fills.

Nova Scotia Beauty

2010-05-16T16:48:00.002-06:00

I recently found Patchmaker on Etsy and after several days of "should I" or shouldn't I" buy some absolutely gorgeous, paper pieced, Quilt Tops, I could not convince myself not to buy. I purchased this little Quilt top, well made, perfect points and top quality fabrics and pulled out all the stops quilting it. I love the feathers gently wandering over the border, each block has its own treatment, the overall effect is beautiful. Makes me wish I had a grand daughter to give it too.

In the meantime, Nova Scotia Beauty is available.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/47127803/nova-scotia-beauty-bright-and-cheery-lap

I will definitely visit Patchmaker again, cannot wait to see what other Beauties this talented Artist comes up with.

Round Robin with free motion designs

2010-02-11T09:40:00.007-06:00

Just finished quilting this beauty. Various designs were placed in open areas. A tight stipple in the light area just outside the center star and a stipple in the green area outside the gold star make the center "pop".

Triple Irish Chain and gorgeous!

2010-02-10T20:44:00.003-06:00

One of my Customers who is a prolific Quilter, made this beautiful Quilt in white with the chains being purple Iris print and yellow. Very striking. I decided to quilt the inside white areas with a feather wreath, do continuous curves through out the squares, half hooked feathers in the inner border, piano key the purple border, and do Sally terry Hooked Feathers in the last outside border.

Not perfect......but we are very pleased.

My Canon EOS Rebel T1i

2009-11-07T07:36:00.004-06:00

Just purchased. A beautiful new 15.1 mpx SLR camera. I love it. I used to be good with my 35mm camera way back when, and I hope to get the "hang" of this beauty soon. It sure is 100 steps up from my "push here dummy" Sony 6mpx which I have been using for the last 4 years, so there is definitely much to learn. Already the quality of the pictures for my store has improved. I hear frequently that the extra pixels make no difference as one has to reduce the picture size to a manageable 1000x1000 to upload, be that as it may, perhaps if I have a better picture to start with, the reduction will be better as well? I have to admit I do not know much about photography, and I am sure I will never use this Camera to its full potential, but then......who knows?

Christmas came early this year

2009-10-26T12:20:00.006-06:00

Oh boy, I just got my fabric order from Marshall Dry Goods, 216 yards of fabric, 110 yards of Kona Bay prints, 106 yards of tone on tone white and beige. Where in the world am I going to put it all? But I am so looking forward to the possibilities of making Quilts and mixing these fabrics with my existing fabric stash. So exciting!

New Website up and running

2009-10-25T15:03:00.004-06:00

I was extremely lucky recently to learn of a very talented lady by the name of Pam Cole. She designed a web page for our Quiltsy Team on Etsy, titled "Quilts 4 Sale", featuring many of our members Quilts. When I asked her to design a web page for my machine quilting business, she came up with a wonderful design, totally representing my clean and uncluttered style. Her price was very fair, communication excellent and always with a smile. Check out my new website, and if you are looking for a Website designer, contact her through http://www.pamspatchwork.etsy.com you won't be disappointed!

FREE SHIPPING now on all my Quilts

2009-09-06T07:50:00.002-06:00

I have recently amended all my Quilt listings and now offer FREE SHIPPING on all QuiltLover Quilts to Canadian and US Customers. A substantial savings of $17.00 - $35.00 depending on the size of the Quilt. I will gladly work out a discount for my Overseas Customers. Enjoy.

I hope to be able to get back to regular posts on my Blog soon. I would like to share this link http://www.martingale-pub.com. src="./images/smilies/wink.gif" style="border:none" alt=";)" />
for those of you on Facebook. If you become a Fan of the Martingale Company, you can download a free book which you can then print out. I received "Batik Beauties" 112 pages of gorgeous Quilt patterns and information. Again...Enjoy

There needs to be two of me!

2009-08-01T20:30:00.009-06:00

Do you ever get the feeling that there needs to be two of you to keep up with it all? Between my Etsy Store, my fabric Store, 2 Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, Soopse, my Dogs, the House, the yard, a husband, and ......my longarm quilting business, Etsy Quiltsy Team Forum, APQS Forum, well you get my drift. I find myself becoming more and more anti social and just hermitizing in my home concentrating on all the above. I do get somer fishing in occassionally when my hubby drags me by the hair into the boat and I love him for it. It keeps me young (I think) and focused and I love my life.

I recently made some gorgeous Quilts, one I decided to keep for myself, but make another to custom order, it was purchased yesterday, called Flowershow. The quilting is just excellent, the fabric and colors second to none. I used a bamboo/cotton blend batting, washed the Quilt in hot water after completion, and it shrunk and shrivelled into the nicest Quilt. I am in love!

Apart from my usual scrappy Quilts I branched out and made a more daring design using a collection of Bali Batik Strips called Strawberry. I used black for a sashing, and earthtone Batiks for borders. The Quilt turned out to be 100" x 100", a nice queen size. It racked up record views and hearts and sold yesterday after being listed only 3 days.

DO I NEED INTERVENTION?

2009-06-10T22:06:00.003-06:00

I desperately needed to re organize my fabric closet. My hubby made me a quick shelf and the rest is history. I cannot believe I have that much Fabric! I am definately addicted. My Studio is currently in the Master Bedroom and the little closet houses my fabric and the jetted tub in the ensuite holds pillow forms, mailing supplies, prepackaged batting. I cannot wait to move into my new Studio, hopefully this Fall.

THIS OLE HOUSE OF MINE & LIZ' VERANDAH PICS

2009-06-07T21:04:00.012-06:00

This old House, oh boy, what an undertaking! We live on a beautiful peaceful acreage and behind our home is the old original homestead built circa 1940. It was a one room house, about 14' x 20' solid wood construction and woodchip insulated. I cannot imagine how drafty that must have been in the winter. My hubby and I thought it might make a great studio for me, get all my machines, fabric and dust out of our home. A place I can go and when done, close the door without having to worry about cleaning up. So this past week he started removing the boards one at the time as they are absolutely salvageable, good dry wood, that will make nice sheving for my fabrics and whatnots. It doesn't look pretty, but then what construction job does, especially in the removal stage, which is always the worst. I have decided to document the different stages and it will be interesting to see how it comes along. Plans have been drawn, windows and doors are bought, new rafters are coming soon, just need time and plenty of elbow grease.

A project we just completed was to put a roof over our deck which has a south exposure and gets so hot from morning till the sun goes down that we could not use it. My industrious constructonator built an awesome cover, complete with metal roof. We have breakfeast, lunch and supper outside now and lounge around whenever the fancy strikes us. Nice to be kind of semi retired! My friend Liz in Australia wanted to see what it looks like, so these pictures are for you Liz. Just imagine us sitting here in the middle of the day with our red bikinis on drinking fuzzy Navels. What a picture! If you look close you cans see my couch potatoe Phayzer laying on the back of the sofa thru the living room window.

RECESSION?

2009-06-05T21:35:00.005-06:00

Times are tough, I hear it all the time. Money is tight, the consumer isn't spending, nobody is buying things like Quilt, that is a luxury item!

I have been absent from my blog because I am just about sold out of Quilts! As fast as I make them they sell! Quilts might be the next hot commodity the way they are disappearing from my store. I list one, an hour later it is sold. This is definately the year of QuiltLover!

I added a couple new Quilt pictures to my Customer Quilt Gallery on LUV2QUILT4YOU, forgot to take pictures of all the ones I quilted in the last 2 weeks, getting old I guess. I have, as of this date, 4 more to quilt, then I can concentrate on quilting for my store again.

I closed www.quiltlover.artfire.com . The views were pitiful and I just don't have the time to promote it anymore than I did. I try to concentrate my efforts on Etsy, it seems to want to pay the bills.

It is still pretty chilly in our part of the world, the flowers even seem to shrink into themselves when the north wind blows. But, we don't have hail, tornadoes, hurricans, floods or even excessive crime, so chilly is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

My hubby is home for the next month or so and has started tearing the old house apart. It will be my studio in good time and I must take pictures as the work progresses. It will be interesting to see if the old house, a one room shack built circa 1940, can be fixed.

TWO YEARS OF ONLINE COMMERCE

2009-05-10T23:23:00.002-06:00

On May 14th, 2009 I celebrate my second anniversary of Online commerce. I opened shop on Etsy on the 14th and made my first sale 2 days later.

It has been a roller coaster of a ride. I learned so much, I lost some money on shipping, I gained several friends and a bunch of wonderful repeat customers. My feedback is impeccable, and compliments are received almost daily. As of this writing I count 1383 shop hearts. It was just before Christmas when I was sitting at 987 ande not really all that long ago when I had my first hearts and I was all excited. My darling husband still recalls that moment with a big smile on his face and a shake of the head. I have learned how to ship the most efficient way so that my customers get their Quilt quickly and at the most economical cost possible, Quilts are shipped overseas in space saver bags, all the air is sucked out and I can almost ship Express for half of what it would have cost to ship regular mail.

I have a friend in Australia who just bought the most gorgeous Quilt from me, and I know she will have a fright when she sees her package. It is rock hard and about 18" x 14" x 8" and contains a queen size Quilt. I would love to see her face when she opens it!

I have put together a slideshow of the Quilts I have sent all over Canada, The United States, Japan, Germany, Australia. It has been a wonderful 2 years and I look forward to continued business growth, making more friends, and amazing peoples all over the world with my quilting.

Thank you all for your confidence and trust in QuiltLover Quilts and other beautiful Things.

SOMETHING TO CROW ABOUT

2009-05-08T18:30:00.004-06:00

Friday May 8th, 2009 has been an awesome day. I woke this morning to find an e-mail from April Cornell, one of my favorite fabric designers for Moda, on my computer.

Quote:

Hi there,I'll introduce myself. I am April Cornell and you may realize that I designed the fabric you used in this beautiful quilt. I'm wondering if you'd allow me to post a shot of the quilt and a link to your Etsy store on my April Cornell Facebook fan page. I'd also like to Tweet to it and share the link. I enjoy showing what beautiful items talented artists are creating with the fabric line.Kindest regards,April Cornell

End of Quote.

I realize of course that I am not unique in getting this e-mail, but I am very flattered for the recognition. She was referring to http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24050299

and here is a picture

This Sunday is Mother's Day and I wish all Moms a wonderful, relaxing day. My Daughter sent me a card with the phrase " Bubbles or bath salts? May this be the toughest decision of your day.

Happy Mother's Day to all.

RAIN FALL DOWN

2009-05-06T07:23:00.003-06:00

I love that song from the Rolling Stones "Bigger Bang" Album. I am a big fan and I think "Rain Fall Down" has to be my most favorite song!

It is raining here this morning, and that is good. Everything is still brown and dingy outside and we need a good rain and some hot sun to make the trees and grass come to live with lush color. Spend the last week with my partner putting a roof over our 12ft x 36ft deck. We have a very open south exposure and that sun gets so unbearably hot we just can't use the deck. Now we will have some shade, cover from the rain, and protection from the humongous amounts of snow we have to shovel off the deck every winter.

I am feverishly working to stock my http://www.quiltlover.etsy/ Store after record March and April Sales. May 14th will mark my second anniversary on Etsy and online sellling. Considering that very vew items I have sold are less than $100.00 and quite a few are over the $400.00 mark, 108 sales is a great accomplisment. I am proud to say that I have Quilts in many corners of the World and Harvest Spice, a real beauty, is leaving for Australia shortly. The Lady that bought it is a repeat buyer and has become a dear friend over the past 2 years. We correspond regularly, and if we catch eachother on the internet at the right time, we chat and enjoy a glass of Mint Baileys while we talk. How awesome is that?

I have had a Storefront on iCraft, which I closed. No sales, low views, Ecrater which had some sales but I found I couldn't keep up with long haul trucking and maintaing 2 online Venues, so I closed it down too.

Currently I operate my http://www.quiltlover.artfire/ store, but it might get closed too, the views are very low, just not worth the time and effort. But.....I might stock it with lower priced items such as bags and table decor and we will see if that will have a market.

I recently made my Quilt Run" and picked up a gazoodel Quilts to finish, that will keep me busy for a week or so. You can see the completed Quilts at http://luv2quilt4you.blogspot.com/ or just click on the link at the right side of this Blog.

I ventured into another medium for promoting my Quilts......YouTube! Check out this Video of the Quilts I have for Sale http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN_xY_o-eq0 It has had 175 visitors/viewers since I created it on May 2, 2009. That is awesome!

IT'S FRIDAY NIGHT AGAIN!

2009-04-17T21:22:00.003-06:00

How did it happen? Where does time go? I swear the older I get the faster time flies.

I have had a very productive week. Received 2 custom Quilt orders for king size Quilts with pillow Shams and Accent Cushions, one of which is almost finished. I made and listed 3 Quilts, Crazy Dayz, Tropicana and Darla Darling. My Sales this month are up as well as are my expenses. Fabric and supplies are getting more and more expensive and I can see having to raise the prices on my Quilts.

My longarm trainng DVD's arrived these last couple of days, and I have to make an effort and schedule "ppp" time. My Circle Lord should be arriving early next week, so exciting! I received a call today from a Customer who wants me to quilt a "Show" Quilt for her, so who knows, tis writer might be able to put "Award winning Longarm Quilter" on her business card yet.

SPRING IS FINALLY HERE

2009-04-14T20:56:00.006-06:00

Yes, I think it has arrived. The Pussy Willows are budding, the Geese are honking once more, the Snow is finally melting, and our gravel roads are getting soft again. The sun has power again and I love it so.

I spent the last couple of days cleaning up the Studio, organizing my fabric closet and making a couple of smaller Quilts. One has been listed on http://www.quiltlover.etsy.com/ and is called The Cazy Dayz of Summer. Beautiful fabrics from the Anna Maria Horner "Good Folks" collection make for a bright and breezy, funky and fresh Quilt. I just finished another one tonight, I will put the binding on tomorrow and list it. Not sure about the name yet, I hope it will come to me in my sleep.

I finished all my Customer Quilts and so far they (the Customers) are very pleased with what they see.

It is raining right now and I have 3 wet dogs coming in the house, yuck!

WHAT IS A CIRCLE LORD?

2009-04-10T19:41:00.005-06:00

This is the Circle Lord

I just bought one. It is an attachement for my longarm machine allowing me to do Squircles, Circles, Feathers, Wreaths, and all kinds of Watchamacallits. It will take my longarm quilting to a new level.

What does it do? Check this out, these are just a couple of samples borrowed from the Circle Lord website

I can't wait to get going on it. Stay tuned, I will have to come up for air sometime, and I will try to post once in a while.

BARGELLO HEART in PURPLE

2009-04-05T20:39:00.004-06:00

I have to show this beauty. I finished quilting it today for a first time Client. I know she will be pleased. Pictures posted with Permission.

ANOTHER WEEK HAS COME AND GONE

2009-04-05T06:27:00.002-06:00

Where is the time going? I think as I get older, the days, weeks, months and years go so much faster. Is it just me or do you feel the same way? Spring is officially here, but now where I live! Woke up to snow yesterday, but, the sun is getting warmer and slowly but surely the white stuff is melting. Little Miss Molly just loves the outside and explores every puddle. I have to be really "fast" as she comes in the door or she'll track mud all over and she comes in like a bullet! She has grown into a beautiful little dog, well shaped, gorgeous eyes and she loves her people.

I have nothing new to show you this week as I have been busy longarming for my Customers. I decided to open a Blog and dedicate it solely to my longarm quilting, be it for customers or work I do for Sale. http://luv2quilt4you.blogspot.com/

I hope to have something new to post here this coming week. Please check back often and leave a comment with your thoughts.

WHAT A WONDERFUL WEEK IT HAS BEEN

2009-03-29T18:51:00.005-06:00

Despite all the events this past week that have kept me busy, I managed to get something done and listed. The Quilts were quilted on my new "Baby" and what a difference it makes. The stitches are amazing! Even and precise, the tension is just perfect, I am lovin it!

I also managed to send 3 Quilts to their new homes....awesome!

I have a practice piece on now and I bought several DVD courses and various techniques of feathers and motives. New Stencils are coming and a bun h of new patterns have been purchased as well. My goal is to totally amaze my Client Base and have a Quilt shown in a Longarm Publication. As they say "practice, practice, practice" or ppp for short. So I best get going and do some more "ppp".

MIA just a short while

2009-03-27T22:22:00.002-06:00

I have been MIA, so much has happened this week. My "Baby" came a day early and I got her all set up. Oh she purrs like a kitten, and glides like butter.

My Xplornet Satelite Internet was set up on Wednesday, so nice! How did I ever manage without that speed and convenience?

Thursday I went to visit my Clients at my favorite Quilt Store in Irma, Alberta and delivered the last batch of wonderful Quilts, and picked up 12 more to finish for delivery in late April. Left home at 0440 am and arrived back home at 2115pm. A long Day but fun and productive.

Went to town today to buy groceries and came home with a "new to us" SUV. What can I say?

This weekend is "playtime with Baby" and I will post pictures, I promise.

WELCOME SPRING

2009-03-20T19:46:00.007-06:00

It was actually plus 5 deg celcius here today, the snow is melting, slowly, the sun was shining so hot and beautiful, I so hope this trend will continue.

Good news, my new "Baby" is scheduled to arrive on March 25th. Knowing UPS, I'll eat my shorts if it is on time.

I want to share a few of my favorites from UniquelyNancy, a wonderful creative Artist and a generous and careing member of the wonderful and diverse Quiltsy Team. You can find more of her wonderful creations at http://www.uniquelynancy.etsy.com/

Go visit her Store, and tell her Quiltlover sent you. Have fun!

ALMOST SOLD OUT TODAY!

2009-03-17T20:17:00.004-06:00

What do all these Quilts have in common?

They sold today and are going to a new Home.

Please allow me the childish indulgence of a happy jig!

I'M GETTING A NEW BABY!

2009-03-16T20:37:00.004-06:00

Yes, I went and did it! I am trading my APQS Freedom, non stitch regulated, for a 2007 APQS Stitch Regulated Longarm. Wow, the possibilities. Every stitch will be the same as the stitch before it, making custom quilting so much easier. Feathers, stitch in the ditch, flowers, etc, will be so much more even. How exiting, I better not aske for any more B-Day gifts for awhile, haha, although my gorgeous man spoils me rotten and would never begrudge me a new toy, especially one that will help pay for his retirement!

I did manage to get something done today, but it was hard to concentrate, A nice country style Table runner with appliqued hearts featuring a tight stipple in the center. Cute.

IT'S BEEN A CRAZY WEEK

2009-03-15T20:12:00.003-06:00

But I have finally found a bit of time to update. I found out I have "transients" in my powerline, which atleast puts the finger on the problem. it is pretty freaky when all of a sudden yor Washmachine comes to life, and your long arm machine jumps while you are using it. I almost had a heart attack when that happened!

The electrician will send someone over tomorrow, there seems to be a loose connection of a couple of wire on the Power pole outside.

Besides that, I made a Wall Hanging, a Black and White Quilt, and just listed this morning, a Sunflower Quilt. Apart from that I took the day off, had a snooze with my puppies this afternoon, then ate some Cheesecake, and I am now sipping a cup of nice hot tea. Feels good to be lazy! Just better not get used to it.

I will have wireless satellite Internet installed next Wednesday, I am soooooo looking forward to that.

MISSING IN ACTION

2009-03-11T06:53:00.009-06:00

*******String Quilt********** Imperial Flower Garden********** Fresh Air ********

I must apologize for leaving my audience in suspense. I haven't updated in a few days and see I had visitors. If it is any excuse, I have been busy! Made and listed several Quilts this week, many are already favorites of someone somewhere in the World. The Internet is a marvelous thing. I am switching to satellite at the end of March. This dial up is way to slow and costly for running a business on-line. I am very excited about this new system.

I also made some very cute Fabric Postcards, my first attempt b t they turned out fantastical! However, I cannot photograph them to save my life, so I will not share them with you but rather sell them at the Market, along with some beautiful Bags I made.

I am working on a queen size Quilt in the "Chelsea Market" collection by RjR. It is soft, floral, romantic, lots of coral, peach, light blue and rose and floral on black.

I will share when done.

A FROSTY MORNING

2009-03-07T08:21:00.005-06:00

We just had a snowstorm over the last few days that left over 12 inches of snow and now we are nack in the deepfreeze. It is a frosty -25deg celcius in my corner of the world. These pictures were taken from my front door up my drive way. Good thing we have a humongous farm tractor with a plow that cleans things up or I would turn into a hermit, being stuck here for the winter season.

The Birds are starting to come back, the Ravens are building their nest again. Spring is just around the corner.

A FRENCH BRAID LIKE NO OTHER

2009-03-06T19:24:00.006-06:00

Pictures posted with permission.

This is a French Braid I machine quilted today for a Client. I just had to brag about it. Absolutely stunning! This Lady teaches the ins and outs of making a French Braid and this is the second I have quilted for her. I choose a Chocolate Swirl Feather Pattern with a firey orange/yellow variegated thread. A truly outstanding combination.

NEED A WEDDING GIFT?

2009-03-04T18:31:00.002-06:00

Today my "Golden Delicious" queen size Quilt was bought as a Wedding Gift. What a wonderful present to a couple starting out, especially if you know them well and what their taste in color is.

Quilts make wonderful Gifts for Wedding, Birthdays, Graduation, Mother's Day, Father's Day, for Baby Showers, any occassion, but especially "Just Because". A handmade Quilt is more expensive than a Chain store Quilt, but in quality the handmade Quilt will win hands down.

Next time you are looking for a really special Gift for someone really special, consider a Quilt. Many sizes and colors available at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5153658 and I will make one special order. Just convo me.

SOMETHING TO BLOG ABOUT!

2009-03-03T19:31:00.005-06:00

59 years ago today I came into this World. Wow, where has time gone? It has sure been a Roller coaster ride to get to this point in my life, never a dull moment! Here is wishing me many more years full of everything I love and like.

Besides celebrating this humongous number of a Birthday, I also long arm quilted several Quilts today and the one I want to Blog about is awesome! Just a simple Rail Fence pattern, in plain flannel but......what color! It reminds me of Lifesavers, I wanted to open a package while quilting this beauty.

Once I had it on the frame, I decided that "Splash" was the only pattern that would be appropriate in this Quilt and a variegated thread in orange/yellow would suit it to a tee. I have wonderful customers and the majority leave the pattern and thread selection up to me. I love them!

Isn't it amazing how machine quilting can bring so much life to a simple pattern? I love this job!

MY FIRST EVER STRING QUILT

2009-03-01T19:12:00.004-06:00

As you may know by know, I am a Batik Junkie and I have a real hard time throwing away any itty bitty tiny piece of fabric. A little bit of research on the internet gave me a great idea as well as wonderful instructions and I have started a String Block project. I just love the colors and how they bring to life something so simple in design. I don't know yet how big it will be or how I am going to machine quilt it, but I know that it will be a very attractive Quilt and my Hubby is laying claim to it already. Did I mention that he is my number One Fan?

I had a lovely and busy week. Made and listed 2 Quilts and a Table Runner, machine quilted several Quilts and I have another 10 waiting to be worked on, I curated a Treasury for my Etsy Quiltsy team, and I was featured in Quiltplays Blog in this article http://quiltplay.blogspot.com/2009/02/q-with-quiltlover.html

QuiltPlay is a very successful Fabric Vendor on Etsy with absolutely wonderful customer service, and you always get a smile.

I am looking forward to next week, have to pick up 4 rolls of various batting for my clients and a few bolts of Fabric and then I can quilt up a storm again.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

2009-02-26T10:06:00.004-06:00

Not wanting to neglect my Etsy Store, I listed this little humber this morning. A sister Quilt to the Artfire Sring Fling, it is different in that it has a yellow border and is quilted with yellow thread. Apart from that it is as pretty and well made as all Quiltlover Quilts.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21564729

SPRING FLING ON ARTFIRE

2009-02-25T20:12:00.004-06:00

SPRING FLING is an Artfire exclusive listing, added today. This beautiful, cheery and bright Scrappy Quilt is meant to fit anywhere and be loved by anyone. Beautiful fabrics where used from a new fabric line by Anna maria Horner for Freespirit. I am very happy with the outcome and I know that the end user will love it to pieces.

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=ViewListing&product_id=109255

Available with Rapid Cart checkout on the right side of this Blog or through the link. Either way it will be fast. Customer Service will be exceptional and with a big smile.

Enjoy!

RAPID CART CHECKOUT NOW AVAILABLE

2009-02-24T22:49:00.002-06:00

Isn't technology marvelous? I just installed the Rapid Cart Checkout for my Artfire Store. Now yo can purchase your Quilts directly from this Blog. Just click on the Quilt you can't live without and 28 seconds later it is all done. Awesome! I love the simplicity of this system. Enjoy!

BEJEWELED is going to California

2009-02-22T19:36:00.008-06:00

This Beautiful Quilt is leaving for Sacramento tomorrow. A lot of thought went into this purchase by this Lady, she wanted to make sure it was exactly what she was looking for. I am glad when my cutomers ask questions on things not covered in my listing description, and when they ask for more pictures. I am always happy to oblige as I want them to be absolutley happy with their acquisition. Because of the nature of my product, I do not accept returns and offer no exchange.

As always I am making new things and this week was no exception. Three new Quilts are listed and are already favorites of someone somewhere.

MY DAUGHTER, THE ESCAPE ARTIST

2009-02-19T06:22:00.007-06:00

Yes, the Cube is filled with Water, locked and she is cuffed! Amazing and scary at the same time.

And you thought I could only make Quilts!

I would like to introduce you to my daughter, a wonderful young Lady who has chosen to dazzle, perplex, delight and amaze audiences along with her partner Richard, through Magic Show and Escapism entertainment.

A recent article in the "Journal for Canadian Magicians" describes Richard as "The most accomplished escape builder in the World" and Dayle as "the most accomplished female escape artist in the World". Together they own and operate Richard Sherry's Magic and Escapes as well as The Magic of Sherry and Krall in Calgary, Alberta.

Check out their Website at http://www.sherryandkrallmagic.com/, you will be amazed and watch for the name in your City. They might appear from nowhere and put a sparkle in your eyes with their Magic!

Did I mention that I am proud of her?

A STAR IS BORN TURNED LAVA

2009-02-18T18:20:00.005-06:00

It is finished, but I decided to call it LAVA, it has red hot colors, is quilted with a thread called Lava, and is just sizzlin'. No a king size as I had wanted, but it is a good size queen. The smaller half Stars I wanted to make Shams out of are too big to use as queen size pillw shams, so i decided to join them an make a Baby Star Quilt to be listed soon.

I am extremely pleased with the quilting on this Quilt, not feathers, as originally planned, but nice nevertheless.

The full details can be seen here http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21236796

Enjoy!

A STAR IS BORN

2009-02-17T14:35:00.006-06:00

I have been absent for a few days but I have been a very busy Quilter. Listed 3 new quilts, sold one and shipped it off, have 3 Quilt tops to quilt and I want to introduce you to my newest "WIP", or Work in progress for my non quilting readers.

I started working on this radiant Star early this morning and just had to share the color way with you. I think it is absolutely fabulously vibrant and alive. Once it is quilted, it will be listed and called "A Star is Born". My dilemma however is, how big to make it. There is also the question of matching fabric, which I am very short off. I think one more small border of yellow, and then I'll finish it off with the purple. It measures 71" square at the moment and I hope to have it finished to 86" square.

There is also a "Baby Star" in the same color to follow, perhaps made into a Lap Quilt. I will update as the work progresses.

Your thoughts and comments are very welcome.

TAKING TIME OFF? WHAT IS THAT?

2009-02-13T19:41:00.008-06:00

The saying goes "there is no rest for the weary", how true. I have been under the weather with a cold, sneezing and coughing and fighting the chills, you know how it is. My wonderful friends at the Quiltsy Team have been sending me well wishes and "chicken soup", and their love truly is comfort for my aching body. But.....there is no time to feel sorry for myself.

Let me indroduce you to my accomplishments this week. There is a Lap Quilt made from the last of my Dandelion Girl fat quarter collection from Moda. Soft, soothing, elegant and cheerful.

Available at http://www.quiltlover.etsy.com/

While organizing my Studio and fabric closet, I came across this Table Runner, put away and forgotten, and decided to list it today. A beauty in browns and golden hues on one side and soft pastels and bunny prints on the other. A beautiful addition to any table to be displayed all year long.

View full description and more pictures as well as price and shipping details at http://www.quiltlover.etsy.com/

And just to throw all my followers a curve, I made something different from my usual scrappy Quilt. This gorgeous Table Topper in Country Colors features appliques in the center. Something I haven't done in a long time and should do more of. I really like applique and have done many pieces in my younger years. Enjoy!

12 Quilts later.......

2009-02-10T21:31:00.003-06:00

Thats right, 12 Quilts since the last posting. I quilted 12 Quilts for various Customers in the last few days and I am ready for a break. I sure love what i am doing and some of the Quilts these Ladies piece are just spectacular! My favorite from this last batch is a Batik Rail Fence Quilt made by Betty Ganie in Irma Alberta, owner of Creative Clutter Quilt Store.

Her Work always smells nice and is just perfectly pressed and prepared. Betty truly is a long armers dream come true.

Presenting GOLDEN DELICIOUS

2009-02-05T19:09:00.004-06:00

Read more about it at www.quiltlover.etsy.com You will love what you see. I promise.

A SNEAK PEEK

2009-02-04T19:25:00.009-06:00

This goregous Quilt, still on the Frame , will be called "Golden Delicious". Made with a new Collection designed by Nancy Halvorsen for Bernatex, called Cider Mill Road. Every color from Apple Orchard to Cider Texture is presented in this wonderful assortment. Machine quilted with a pattern called Splash, and a cotton thread in a color called Rosewood, it will be a stunning addition to any bedroom, regardless of theme.

I am looking to present this queen size Quilt with matching quilted pillow Cases in the next few days.

Stay Tuned!!!