Helpful things...

Though I am pretty much a traditional quilt when it comes to techniques I am always on the lookout for something to make the process a bit easier (and safer!)

A Splendid Sampler block from Pat Sloan's sew along....

So here are a few of the things I've added to my sewing space the past couple of months that I like.

First, a new sewing chair!  The difference between this and the office style chair I was using is "huge!"  This one goes up much higher making it easier to get to the right height for us vertically challenged folks (aka...short!)  Also the seat is much larger giving me a larger landing spot...yes, this purchase was sparked by my missing the seat on my old chair and landing not so gracefully on the floor!  Duh!  I think the base with the rollers may be larger and more stable as well...

Also in the photo above is my new peg-board!  How many times have you gone out and purchased a new _____ (fill in the blank)___ even though you knew you had one?  I'm hoping this pegboard will help eliminate some of that!

On the smaller side...I am loving this tinted 2-1/2 inch ruler from Missouri Star!  The measuring lines sort of glow making them so much easier to see!  And it is small so easy to carry in the sewing tote.  Even on a bad MS eyesight day I can use this ruler...now, that my friends is sayin' something!

This little wooden rotary cutter stand came from a recent quilt show...wish I could remember who I bought it from.  I usually have a fairly messy cutting table...ok, I almost always have a messy table!  Having a set place that stands out from the piles for the cutter has been a real bonus!  Also, it is easier for me pick it up when it is already almost standing.  Only down side is the stand is the same color as the table...thinking of painting it a really bright color!

Bernina Workshop day 3!

Day three of the Bernina workshops was with Sarah Vedeler.  She is a really good instructor and has beautiful patterns.

I love how the little purse came out...just not sure this is the process for me.

On this day we used the 800 series for both the quilting and the applique.  It is all done in a hoop and is automated.  So basically you set the machine up press a button and watch.

If you like embroidery and you like items you make to look perfect then this is for you.  I just feel like I need a bit more involvement.

That said...it really is pretty!

Also, on day three the Owner of Bernina, H.P. Ueltschi,  visited from Switzerland.  It was interesting to hear the story of how the company was started.

Gail your blog commenter is set to "no reply" so I hope you get this!  The carrot cake I showed a few posts ago came from this site....http://www.shugarysweets.com/.../carrot-cake-cheesecake-cake

Workshop day two

Once again I tried my hand at free motion quilts...this time it may just work.

So why now?  Well, Amanda Murphy who taught the workshop did a great job.  She has a book out called Free-motion Quilting Idea Book published by Stash books.  I liked her process and she is a high energy instructor.  Amanda designed the fabric panel for Bernina that helps folks learn different fm designs.  Would definitely recommend her as an instructor!

Second is the stitch regular which is a bit like training wheels for free motion quilting!  Makes it just a bit easier for me to focus on the pattern and get usable results.  We used the 700 series machine in this class.

I have not bought a machine with stitch regulator yet...I'm going to give my current machine another go.  But now I know what the S.R. does and how the dual feed can make it easier for me to move the quilt through.  Anything that makes it easier on my arms is a bonus!

Have to admit I was exhausted at the end of the day...constant information and practice.  But tired in a good way...thankfully lots of coffee was available!

Also got to try out the Bernina sit down machine.  Really liked this.  I am definitely a move the quilt sort of quilter.

The long arms is impressive but it just isn't how I "think."  Also standing for long periods of times isn't in the cards for me.

Now I will continue to hand quilt...just need an option for quilts that need to be finished quicker beside "quilting by check!"  I did a recent inventory of quilt tops that I have waiting to be quilted...74!

More on Day three tomorrow!

On a side note...made and awesome birthday cake for a quilting friend!

This cake has two layers of carrot cake with the middle being cheese cake...then frosted with praline cream cheese frosting!  It takes decadent to a whole new level!  I found the recipe on the internet!