https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog daily 0.75 2026-03-31 https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2026-quilting-goals-march-update monthly 0.5 2026-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e105cc6-08d5-4149-bf81-4af89d3c7a71/March+2026+Quilting+Habits+Update+Blog+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Make it stand out Check out the video that goes with this blog HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/843db4db-f861-4aa6-80b5-956b369e9c2f/_2026+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - 2026 Quilting Goals and Habits Without further ado, here are my Quilting Goals/Habits for 2026! If you would like to follow along and create your own goals, I have a list of I also have a free monthly worksheet to help track your goals each month. These videos and blogs have helped keep my accountable. After all, I know I will be reporting to all of YOU on this, and I don’t want to let you down. I highly recommend having someone to keep you accountable, if not in a public way like I am doing, then in a group of friends. It helps me so much! Want to work on your own quilting habits and goals? Here’s a tracking worksheet to help you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772985751337-RH2THSRAXIDROO0NOI7E/Modern+Blocks+March+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197069856-NP34MDWEX7PC976QTB3F/Folded+Basket+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774617905738-3W89A8PH7FR0MCF7VKL7/2026+projects.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772985751437-5MX1FQB0GQDCMCH0ZR5V/Blog+Thumbnail+Old+Scrappy+Quilt.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197066555-71NQJ469Y7Z9JJDPA3SN/Use+It+Or+Lose+It+Binding+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197067479-I31PGU5MBBJ92A9AHEQ3/Quilting+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197067780-5QY42UGHT35EA6RIWTLR/Quilt+Repair+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197068982-9LJX24MY0CPWUH56XUTZ/Clean+As+I+Go+Habit+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197070101-HYWXEAJQWJ37X9AEKFO5/Daisy+Post+Surgery+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774617905737-1AGB3MT7CRPWVGEBLGY0/Habit+Blog+March+2026+Update+Daisy+Supervisor.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774617907074-TZKP313VXDEEZLA3PWK3/Habit+Blog+March+2026+Update+quilt+from+viewer.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774617907772-AIQ76TVSMMBPS6ALV9LJ/Habit+Blog+March+2026+Update.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197066555-71NQJ469Y7Z9JJDPA3SN/Use+It+Or+Lose+It+Binding+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Goal 1: Use It or Lose It Score: 4/5 I have a bunch of bins and cleaned out a few this month. I put together packages to donate to my guild’s Quilter’s Corner table that will hopefully help make some money for our guild. I also used a binding that I bought at a yard sale many years ago. I have been holding on to that and some vintage fabric, and I used it in the vintage quilt top that I recently finished. Although I did use a lot of items that I have been holding onto, I didn’t touch a few others, like the quilt blocks I showed last month or the postage stamp quilt blocks that I showed in January. I still have a ways to go with fabrics I want to keep for who knows what. Glow: I am making some progress, and I am thinking about these items more. For example, when I was finishing this vintage quilt top, I immediately remembered I had this wonderful vintage binding in my stash. Grow: I really need to tackle the fabrics I have been hoarding. I have so many beautiful prints that I don’t want to cut. I want to use them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774197068982-9LJX24MY0CPWUH56XUTZ/Clean+As+I+Go+Habit+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Goal 2: Clean As I Go Score: 2/5 Hot Mess Express! I am planning a few tutorials and things got so messy! I noticed I wasn’t as creative or having as much fun. I found I was so excited to sew that I jumped right in. Before I knew it, I had a huge mess on my hands. I know that this habit is going to take practice, and this one (I think) is going to be my biggest struggle this year. When I clean as I go, I definitely see a difference in my productivity and, well, happiness. I know it is good for me, kind of like kale and beans. Working at this is going to take time and practice. Another thing that I am noticing is that I tend to stack and shove items from my cutting table onto a shelf near my cutting table. I don’t want a bad habit to create another. Glow: Continue to work on this, recognizing when I am struggling and make note of my mood, too. Grow: Make it a point to put things away instead of stacking them on the shelf near my cutting table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/67a58747-6f8c-47c6-beb8-382b3bc6b750/Vintage+Quilt+Tops+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Goal 3: Curate & Catalog My Quilts Score: 3/5 Although I curated thirteen more quilts this month, I also drug my feet on this one. In fact, it wasn’t until I was outlining this video that I realized I didn’t curate any quilts this month! What did I do? I got to work! BUT the plan is to do these things throughout the month, not to cram for a test, so to speak. Most of the ones I curated this month were quilt tops, all by chance since I bring go through a bag or two at a time, and I just so happen to have a lot of the quilt tops together. For those keeping track (like myself!) I have curated 33 vintage and antique quilts and quilt tops so far. Glow: At least I did, it right? Grow: No more cramming for tests and doing this at the last minute! A little at a time will make the task less daunting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e5b34241-ead6-4765-8cda-ec727c1bb5bb/Walking+Foot+Blog.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Goal 4: Practicing Walking Foot Quilting Score: 5/5 As I mentioned last month, I wanted to finish an antique quilt top that I have had for a long time, and (drumroll, please!) I did it! It was wonky and a real challenge, but I did it! YAY! Although I didn’t quilt anything fancy, this still pushed me to allow a few pleats in the quilt when needed, and to push through the wonkiness and bubbles to actually get the quilt finished. Glow: This was a nice reminder that things do actually quilt out, just like they say. I am happy I was brave and pushed through this project, even when it was uncomfortable to do so. Grow: Continue to push myself like this, and, of course, do some creative things with straight stitch quilting, too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772985751337-RH2THSRAXIDROO0NOI7E/Modern+Blocks+March+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - March Quilting Goals Update - Goal 5: Sewing 15 Minutes Each Day Score: 4/5 I wasn’t great with this this month, unfortunately, and I noticed my stress levels were a bit higher because of it. I did make fourteen more blocks from the 100 Modern Quilt Blocks book, but I made many of them in a few sewing sessions instead of throughout the months. There were many days that I didn’t sew at all. To be fair to myself, it was a busy month with our dog Daisy’s second TPLO surgery. There was a lot of time spent with her while she is recovering. Still, carving out time to sew is self care for me. Glow: I sewed some of the days, which is good. I also had a few longer sewing sessions. Grow: Realize that I am happier when I sew at least a little bit each day. Make this a priority moving forward. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-super-scrappy-quilt monthly 0.5 2026-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2125f587-b2bd-4801-8a1f-848d1435cb27/BLOG+Lessons+from+Old+Super+Scrappy+Quilt+%282%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835576215-SVSGWKY8YOWQJYX9UWCG/BLOG+full+quilt+floor+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835857026-Q2VNV7JV9FFPBYP023RO/BLOG+Side+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835596266-T54ZNR5ZUSSWEA7KSNN0/BLOG+Second+Pattern+2+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835596272-TYG5XI5O6CTG6NXUB85J/BLOG+Second+Pattern+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835573056-WP7K26VZ5FLPBXJEFYU3/BLOG+Borders+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835575240-CFTOIFCIANPXEH8GKSIH/BLOG+fabrics+4+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835574168-A3PWMUCCNZBXY2UPZZ2H/BLOG+fabrics+2+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835574231-WSJILKP79LMF1AV8OKBE/BLOG+fabrics+3+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835575357-VB8UXOO1PSUKC87QU22A/BLOG+fabrics+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835856917-YPCYKKNV5UITPYR0WCL3/BLOG+Patriotic+Block+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835573013-3U7FGA35A4OM3E6B0NON/BLOG+Back+of+block+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835855834-CW3CJFL8V5HARCPDBMLS/BLOG+Back+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835576215-SVSGWKY8YOWQJYX9UWCG/BLOG+full+quilt+floor+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Blocks This quilt is made up of two different, yet simple, quilt blocks that offer a wonderful secondary pattern. There are (95) colorful 9-patches and (36) snowball blocks. When they are put together, they form a chain in a way that runs through the quilt top. The blocks are approximately 5.5” finished (some are bigger and some are smaller). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3c0a000b-3d37-421b-ab02-54d94d4ce718/full+Quilt+Block+Super+Scrappy+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Secondary Pattern Because it is tricky to see the pattern in the quilt, I made some graphics to help us see the complete pattern. When the 9-patch blocks come together with the snowball blocks, we can see the wonderful secondary pattern. In this quilt, the secondary pattern does get a little lost in the blocks, but it is still there nonetheless. The maker (or makers possibly) used additional 9-patches to create sashing units between the larger cluster of blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835688638-0PWIRMFVLBM7EIQ7R9CE/BLOG+Pattern+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Blocks & Sashing Scrappy nine-patches are also used for sashing, which adds to the overall eclectic design of this quilt. Forty of the 95 nine-patches are in the border while 40 are in the block. Since they are so scrappy and colorful, it is hard to see these in the quilt, but they are there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772835575240-CFTOIFCIANPXEH8GKSIH/BLOG+fabrics+4+Super+Scrappy.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Fabrics These fabrics! Ohhhh my goodness! I just love looking at them! There are plaids, florals, stripes, and more. Most of the fabric is the same weight of cotton fabric with the exception of one heavier fabric. This doesn’t seem to affect the stability of the quilt, however. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/64a7a79f-bb6f-4e82-904d-de340371cb2d/Different+Stitches.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old SUPER Scrappy Quilt Top - Multiple Makers Although I love old quilts that are finished, one really nice thing about vintage quilt tops that aren’t finished is that we can look at the back to see how it is constructed, giving us even more insight to the quilt and more lessons to learn. Upon closer examination, it appears that different makers made the blocks. This is just a theory, however, and I could be wrong. A few of the clues that make me think this is that not all of the stitches look like they are made by the same machine. Also, two blocks are hand-pieced. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2026-quilting-goals-february-update monthly 0.5 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7bb4d616-a198-431c-9741-f1a7c75b3c5e/BLOG+February+2026+Quilting+Habits+Update+Thumbnail+%281%29.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Make it stand out Check out the video that goes with this blog HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/843db4db-f861-4aa6-80b5-956b369e9c2f/_2026+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - 2026 Quilting Goals and Habits Without further ado, here are my Quilting Goals/Habits for 2026! If you would like to follow along and create your own goals, I have a list of I also have a free monthly worksheet to help track your goals each month. These videos and blogs have helped keep my accountable. After all, I know I will be reporting to all of YOU on this, and I don’t want to let you down. I highly recommend having someone to keep you accountable, if not in a public way like I am doing, then in a group of friends. It helps me so much! Want to work on your own quilting habits and goals? Here’s a tracking worksheet to help you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294104656-KDW479SQW56RUZSVAKW8/BLOG+Editing.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772293361935-X1SV3F3T9WVWXRHCBUJF/BLOG++design+boards.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772293363001-I83BMZQ4LXZYCOMRLF02/BLOG+100+Modern+Blocks+.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294103593-V6LGM9COBNHZZ2KQ5UWO/BLOG+Curating+Quilts++2.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294104599-ZT0XKZE3B9NH8HO8RGSI/BLOG+Daisy.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294105663-MKIKFUH02B195DM1B3WJ/BLOG+Embroidery+Floss.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772295256403-Z5S9AUGYLP3NU2D7EZSV/BLOG+Embroidery+Floss+%281%29.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294106659-YQ0XUWLGHDJSSMZVRWSE/BLOG+Owls+Deconstructed.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772295258454-IQRCGQ9YEEV0Q5JP1FWG/BLOG+Owl+on+Design+Board.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772295260599-ZM10M70K3YPF2P4LPEVU/BLOG+Owls+4.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294106738-MZJ847W3FXCOT465WG9P/BLOG+Pegboards.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772295257422-F0IIIX3OCGHEPKSIPZ7T/BLOG+Heart+Quilt.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772293362041-PFZY2T1I9GKDHPZ6FYMV/BLOG++stamp+quilt+hand+piecing+.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772295458362-PQ2PQBPH6D5SJUTSP2O4/IMG_3062.JPG Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772399169465-VQSTYKRY2EK5YGXNPSZX/christmas+fabric.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/727fedf5-d70e-4d9d-8dd5-b35cf012ac79/postage+stamp+with+inset.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Goal 1: Use It or Lose It Score: 5/5 Wow, I really did well at this goal this month! I reworked the churn dash blocks I showed last month, I organized my embroidery floss (HUGE task), and I even finished the 144-piece postage stamp block, all hand-pieced. What? I guess this is a good reminder to never say never, right? I am excited about continuing to make these blocks. Who am I? HA! Glow: Look at me, kicking this goal’s butt! Grow: You still have a way to go, Kris. Don’t get too far ahead of yourself! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772294103627-U0OIYNLKX9ROFHN6RH8B/BLOG+Curating+Quilts+.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Goal 2: Clean As I Go Score: 3/5 Although I wasn’t perfect with this goal, I did pretty well overall. I got into the weeds a little bit when I started curating the old quilts. I had piles everywhere and struggled to get back on track from that. Afterall, in my experience, chaos breeds chaos. That said, once I got a grip on things, the rest of the month went smoothly. One wonderful outcome from this (and other) goals is that I see it spilling over into other areas of my life. For example, I am keeping my car much cleaner. Who knew? Glow: I recognized the moment things got out of hand and reeled it back in. Grow: Have a plan of action for big projects like curating old quilts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/62525836-5c84-4ac3-83bf-5281597f34a5/tags+for+quilts.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Goal 3: Curate & Catalog My Quilts Score: 5/5 I did it! I finally did it! I will admit this is the scariest of all of the goals for me. I know it is a huge task, and it is intimidating. There are many reasons for this, I think. First, I am nervous about getting so overwhelmed and giving up. It has happened before. Next, I am a little nervous about just how many quilts are actually in my home! Eeek! But, I started. I made a spreadsheet (I hate spreadsheets) and started curating the quilts. It is happening. I decided to tag the quilts with a number that corresponds with the dreaded spreadsheet. On the spreadsheet, I am keeping track of everything. Honestly, it has been helpful. I hope I keep it up. I hope it works. I hope I don’t find a million quilts. HA! Glow: Even though I didn’t want to start and had concerns, I started. Grow: I need to keep up with momentum. I can do this! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ff20a5f6-1d3b-4448-8051-4ddfd69da728/come+back+next+month.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Goal 4: Practicing Walking Foot Quilting Score: 0/5 I quilted one small project. That’s it. Nothing to see here. Move along. Hahahaha! Glow: I’ve got nothing. Grow: Do better. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1772293363001-I83BMZQ4LXZYCOMRLF02/BLOG+100+Modern+Blocks+.jpg Blog - February Quilting Goals Update - Goal 5: Sewing 15 Minutes Each Day Score: 5/5 THIS I did great at! I really stayed on track with sewing each day, and look at these blocks! It is coming together so nicely! I love them so much. I am also glad I decided to make a bunch of different colors. I think this will be an amazing quilt. Glow: Continue to sew each day. It helps my mental health so much, and look at the beautiful project that is coming from this practice! Grow: Don’t lose momentum. You’ve got this! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/portable-design-board monthly 0.5 2026-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4f5200f8-cbe9-46f3-b3b7-6a182d2763c8/Blog+Portable+Design+Board+.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Make it stand out Here’s the FULL video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/801b40ca-2183-4839-9e3b-943b1fbbbe59/portable+design+board+supply+list+blog.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bc7fc016-c292-4836-8230-689c32100112/Design+board+at+sewing+machine+BLOG.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Step 1: Decide on a Size Before we can really get started, we need to decide on a size. That is the best thing about these (in my opinion)--you can make them any size you want! When deciding on a size, keep in mind that you want space between your pieces since you will be using this to lay out your unfinished blocks. Also, remember that there will be a duct tape border around the design board that will be unusable space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d8b6ba1e-7e32-414c-ac33-062f2d91586c/Cutting+Cardboard+BLOG.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Step 2: Cutting Cardboard to Size Once a size is decided, it is time to cut down the box. To get it into manageable pieces, I use electric scissors, but you can use a box cutter. Now that it is flat and cut into chunks, we can make it the size we need for our design board. For this, I use an old rotary cutter that is specifically for paper with an old blade in it from when I change my rotary blades. Cut out the desired size just like you would cut out a piece of fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/dec4ae43-0172-4fc9-87ee-287f95bec890/adhering+the+cardboard+BLOG.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Step 3: Adding Batting Now that we have cardboard cut to the desired size, it is time to adhere the batting scrap to the cardboard. There are a few things to keep in mind for this step: 1. If there is writing on the cardboard, you may see it through the box. That may be what you put on the back of the design board. 2. Make sure to use a non-lumpy glue. For example, if you use hot glue, there may be bumps or lumps on your design board. I like to use 505 Spray Adhesive, but a glue stick works well, too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cc0c37e7-11d1-4dcb-bb73-2b324f47c544/adding+duct+tape+Blog.jpg Blog - DIY Portable Design Boards - Step 4: Adding the Duct Tape Let’s finish the design board! The next step is adding the duct tape to the edges. I like to have a fairly consistent reveal (is that the right word? Frame?) around the edges. To do this, I place the design board on a cutting mat, cut a piece of duct tape slightly longer than the side, and line it up on the ½” mark on my cutting mat. After placing it on the design board, I wrap it around the edge and cut off the excess. I repeat this on all four sides. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2026-quilting-goals-january-update monthly 0.5 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fd4558d7-9b56-49d8-bbd5-913b61f27442/Blog+January+2026+Quilting+Habits+Update+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Make it stand out Check out the video that goes with this blog HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/843db4db-f861-4aa6-80b5-956b369e9c2f/_2026+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - 2026 Quilting Goals and Habits Without further ado, here are my Quilting Goals/Habits for 2026! If you would like to follow along and create your own goals, I have a list of I also have a free monthly worksheet to help track your goals each month. These videos and blogs have helped keep my accountable. After all, I know I will be reporting to all of YOU on this, and I don’t want to let you down. I highly recommend having someone to keep you accountable, if not in a public way like I am doing, then in a group of friends. It helps me so much! Want to work on your own quilting habits and goals? Here’s a tracking worksheet to help you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278936382-3TWVHTKD9PAJ7CC8C4WZ/January+Goal+gallery+Blog+Photo+%282%29.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278937441-BO8RF7US6FSHH3AHFHD9/January+Goal+gallery+Blog+Photo+%281%29.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278937614-GLYMVN7XN5IYWGMIQZ4Q/January+Goal+5+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769279381794-KS0YR8ITJ28F4GDZILKD/January+Goal+gallery+new+serger+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278938459-VRU060GPE3PZNK8RKLTM/January+Goal+3+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769279381829-NU0729AYPPVOE62OYIDJ/January+Goal+gallery+hot+honey+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278938646-D63WUPLHQ7BQ1R6UDC1Q/January+Goal+2+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769279382834-MBAKWJJV1FAHYX7LS5P2/January+Goal+gallery++heartsBlog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278939451-8K23S6V9HMRC5TPTEZG1/January+Goal+1+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769279628528-OEFRDA9V5SNBJG66ZE7L/January+Goal+gallery+cottie+dog+quilt+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873064463-MSZR2ERVFQQVT8V5WHPQ/Back+of+Quilt+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873064461-GUFP5VZ0LZSWRWJ6VGDY/Basting+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873065419-Y3K19704Q4FJP048C78D/Daisy+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873066377-2GSX9SHXTQIPNQ5YWUFJ/Daisy+snow+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873066510-1TTVOUO3XWKWAEK8CIQB/Quilt+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873067510-LVC50QUHNPCPZKX38GIS/upcycling+sweatshirt+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/096c873d-4995-43d7-8f4d-9702cc891cb8/January+Goal+1+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Goal 1: Use It or Lose It Score: 5/5 Although I haven’t used the fabrics I showed at the beginning of January (yet), I did decide to look closer at my WIP (Works in Progress) bins, including one that I haven’t revisited in a few years. I started this quilt in 2022. I decided to take apart one of the blocks and rework it. I like it much better! I also organized and sorted out the bin, using some of the fabrics for an upcoming project and pulling out some that won’t work anymore for this project. Although I love this project a lot more now, I am still not super excited about it. It may be one that I lose (donate to my guild). Glow: I really evaluated this project and figured out what I didn’t like. I am open to donating it if I am still not excited about it moving forward. Grow: Continue to do this process, especially with my WIPs and UFOs (Unfinished Projects). It is helpful to look at it through the Use It Or Lose It scope. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769278938646-D63WUPLHQ7BQ1R6UDC1Q/January+Goal+2+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Goal 2: Clean As I Go Score: 4/5 This area is super impactful for me, and although I wasn’t perfect at doing this all month, I recognized it helped so much when I did do this. I wasn’t as overwhelmed at the end of a sewing session and was more prone to finish cleaning up at the end of the day. This created a snowball effect where I wasn’t as overwhelmed at the beginning of a sewing session the next time I was in my sewing space. I used to think I worked best in the chaos, and maybe when I was younger I did work better in the mess. Now, however, I am much happier sewing in a clean space. There are a few things that I do to be successful in this. I equip my space with essentials. Blog on this coming soon. Glow: Recognizing the good that comes from cleaning up my space as I go, especially at the end of the day when I am tired and don’t want to clean up a huge mess. Grows: Continue to practice cleaning as I go, knowing my future self will be happier. Do this more consistently to form it into a habit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2e73cba0-a196-4cf5-aea4-d7cc99ae7911/January+Goal+3+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Goal 3: Curate & Catalog My Quilts Score: 3/5 I started! YAY! That’s the good news! The bad news is that I haven’t done much more since that first surge of energy. BUT what I did is pretty neat. Because I am a very visual person, I made up sheets with pictures of the old quilts that have accompanying Lessons from an Old Quilt videos. I went through and made sure I knew what quilts were used in videos and when they were published. It’s a start! I haven’t actually found those quilts in my collection yet, but I have a record. I am happy with this progress as it will help me move forward in making more of these videos. Glows: I took steps to start. Starting is sometimes the hardest part, right? Grows: Continue to curate this list. I think I missed a few of the videos, and I need to go back and find the gaps and the actual quilts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873067374-3SJ1X501PQFEY6QUUNND/Quilting+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Goal 4: Practicing Walking Foot Quilting Score: 3/5 I wasn’t super adventurous this month, but I did manage to quilt one of my many flimsies. This one is one of my Just One Layer Cake Quilt patterns. I just did a straight stitch quilting technique along the sides of the seams, creating a grid. I love how it turned out, especially with the flannel backing. It has wonderful texture and is a great example of how you don’t have to quilt things super fancy to have them be beautiful. I am hoping to bind this beauty this weekend, making this the first finish of 2026. As I finish quilts and projects this each month, I will be tracking them on my 2026 Finishes blog. Make sure to check back often to see what I have been working on. Glows: I kept it simple, but did it! Love this grid design on this quilt. Grows: Get a bit more adventurous with quilting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cb45077c-8795-48e0-bcdc-aecf2aa6e94f/January+Goal+5+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - January Quilting Goals Update - Goal 5: Sewing 15 Minutes Each Day Score: 4/5 First, the good news: I completed ten of the 100 Modern Quilt Blocks from Tula Pink’s book. YAY! I am loving how they are turning out. I am also sewing most days, which is great! The bad news is that I haven’t been very consistent in sewing for 15 minutes each day for fun. Making this a priority has become a bit more challenging than I first thought. I tend to sew for my business each day, but sewing for fun has taken a back seat, and that’s what I really want to work on. To help with this, I have decided to prepare some projects–some being the modern blocks–so I have a few Sew and Go things ready. Glow: Again, as with any goals, recognizing and adjusting is part of the process. I am happy I recognize this and am adjusting. Grow: Remember that sewing for fun is good for me! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2026-quilting-projects-and-finishes monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/478dcb78-895c-4b45-9512-5fe4abd4c4cd/2026+Quilting+Finishes+Blog.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Projects & Finishes - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1769873066510-1TTVOUO3XWKWAEK8CIQB/Quilt+January+Goal+Blog+Gallery.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Projects & Finishes - Just One Layer Cake Quilt Finally finishing this amazing quilt top! If you remember, I made two of these: one with just one layer cake and another where I expanded on the layer cake. For both of these quilts, I used a flannel backing, making it sooooo cozy! I finished the first one (that used just one layer cake) in 2025, but the second was in my quilt top pile. One of my 2026 Quilting Goals is to practice walking foot quilting. This was the perfect quilt to incorporate into that goal. YAY! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8bb877ce-bb60-448f-86c3-762e49f5cfa8/Heart+Wallhanging.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Projects & Finishes - Appliquéd Heart Wallhanging Isn’t this wall hanging just the cutest? I created it as a fun alternate project to go along with my Owl Quilt tutorial—especially for quilters who don’t have an AccuQuilt system. I wanted a design that anyone could jump in and make, no special tools required! This sweet little wall hanging finishes at 16.25” x 25.5”. In the tutorial, I guide you through the whole process from start to finish—yes, even the quilting and binding! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/805aca74-7dab-412b-bf22-1528ca94227c/2026+finishes+quilt+blog.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Projects & Finishes - Antique Quilt Top Restoration I featured this quilt top in a Lessons from an Old Quilt video on March 8, 2026. It was wonky and in rough shape. I decided to try to restore it. Although I wasn’t hopeful, I pushed through it anyway. I wish I could say I was confident that it would end up being a quilt. I was not. In fact, I was fairly certain it would be a tote bag, a few table runners, or even coasters. Much to my surprise, it turned out to be a quilt! I am very proud of this one. I learned so much from the quilt top itself, and it continued to teach me lessons on finishing it. I recorded the entire process, too! This was fun and rewarding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1774617905738-3W89A8PH7FR0MCF7VKL7/2026+projects.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Projects & Finishes - Fall Table Runners I know, I know. It is a little early for this, right? But when I saw this upholstery fabric (FIVE yards for $4.99!) at the thrift store, I had to get it. I knew right away it would make great fall table runners. Around the same time, a friend asked me if I could make a 10 foot fall table runner for his huge dining room table. I love how things just come together! I made him one, myself one, and I plan to make a few more. I still have a lot of this fabric left. Although this isn’t quilting, I wanted to include it in my 2026 finishes. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2026-quilting-goals monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ee87cfcf-135b-4dac-b217-34ec8430c35d/2026+Quilting+Habits+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Goals - Make it stand out Check out the video that goes with this blog HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7a51115f-ba0f-4f77-ab18-75fa88a1d7f7/2024+Quilting+Goals+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Goals - My 2024 Quilting Goals/Habits After evaluating the good, bad, and ugly, I came up with my top five habits I wanted to implement in 2024. If you want to check out those videos, here’s the 2024 Quilting Habit Goals playlist. I also have blogs, as well. Here they are: 2024 Goal Announcement; February Update, April Update, August Update, September Update, October Update, and November Update. Although I didn’t achieve all of these goals or develop all of these habits, I learned what I liked and didn’t like (for example, free motion quilting!). I also learned to pay attention to these areas and continue to improve over the years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/acbca9b5-e53f-43c3-b676-6e81a1d1705d/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2026 Quilting Goals - My 2025 Quilting Goals/Habits Just like in 2024, I learned so much about myself, my quilting life, and myself in 2025 through this process. Overall, 2025 was a success! I made so many scrap quilts and projects, which helped me pare down those scraps (I still have a lot!); I was super intentional about my purchases; I tried new things and broke out of my comfort zone. Unfortunately, I still need to improve that No Home Zone (AKA: Dumping Area) and giving myself more movement breaks. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/quilting-goals-and-habits monthly 0.5 2026-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7a51115f-ba0f-4f77-ab18-75fa88a1d7f7/2024+Quilting+Goals+%281%29.jpg Blog - Setting Quilting Habits & Goals - My 2024 Quilting Goals/Habits After evaluating the good, bad, and ugly, I came up with my top five habits I wanted to implement in 2024. If you want to check out those videos, here’s the 2024 Quilting Habit Goals playlist. I also have blogs, as well. Here they are: 2024 Goal Announcement; February Update, April Update, August Update, September Update, October Update, and November Update. Although I didn’t achieve all of these goals or develop all of these habits, I learned what I liked and didn’t like (for example, free motion quilting!). I also learned to pay attention to these areas and continue to improve over the years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/acbca9b5-e53f-43c3-b676-6e81a1d1705d/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - Setting Quilting Habits & Goals - My 2025 Quilting Goals/Habits Just like in 2024, I learned so much about myself, my quilting life, and myself in 2025 through this process. Overall, 2025 was a success! I made so many scrap quilts and projects, which helped me pare down those scraps (I still have a lot!); I was super intentional about my purchases; I tried new things and broke out of my comfort zone. Unfortunately, I still need to improve that No Home Zone (AKA: Dumping Area) and giving myself more movement breaks. If you would like to read more about the goals from 2025, you can check out the updates here on my website and the 2025 Quilting Habits and Goals playlist. Here are the blogs for each month for 2025: January Goal Announcement, February Update, March Update, April Update, May Update, August Update, September Update, October Update, November Update, and December Update. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/843db4db-f861-4aa6-80b5-956b369e9c2f/_2026+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - Setting Quilting Habits & Goals - My 2026 Quilting Goals/Habits New year means new goals! This year I am excited to see how I grow more as a quilter using these goals as guides. I go into more details with these goals in the 2026 Quilting Goals blogs. Each month, I update my progress, the good and the not-so-good, and other events, activities, and projects I have been working on throughout the month. I use it as a way to keep myself accountable with a sprinkle of an online journal, too. If you would like to read more about the Quilting Habits and Goals for 2026, you can check out the updates here on my website and the 2026 Quilting Habits and Goals playlist. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-scottie-dog-quilt monthly 0.5 2026-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5c8320ea-058f-47b4-971f-34429004c237/Lessons+from+an+Old+Scottie+Dog+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/af19890c-1798-475e-b654-8eb0f9cd1d4a/Scottie+dogs+with+borders.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - LOOK at These Puppies! There are a total of 23 scottie dog blocks in this quilt, each made with the same solid navy blue fabric for their bodies and the same red and white fabric for their little jackets. The red and white fabric appears to be pink because the print is so small. Their embroidered faces make them come to life, however. Their eyes, noses, and mouths are embroidered in red, which pops well on the navy blue background. Each scottie dog measures 6.5” tall and 8.5” long. The blocks themselves are set on point (diagonal) and are 9.5” square. The dogs are all hand pieced, even though they look like they are appliquéd. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8586d471-13cf-458b-b561-e0cbe34d6f58/Scottie+Dog+quilitng+distance+Blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Quilting The quilting is amazing in this quilt. It is all done by hand in white thread throughout, with different patterns depending on the section. In the scottie dog blocks, the dogs themselves are quilted along the edges of their bodies, enhancing the pups. The background of these blocks is quilted in a small grid. The setting triangles are quilted with a larger grid, giving this quilt a really cool look. The first and third borders are shadow quilted along the seams, just like the scottie dogs, while the middle border is quilted in a cross-hatch pattern. All of this quilting works so well together! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4330b2ff-9a58-488e-8b73-0795c853d133/Scottie+Dog+Blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Details in the Quilting But wait! There’s more! In the center of each of the dogs, there is a letter quilted in it, or at least I think they are letters. It is so hard to tell! There is definitely something quilted in each dog and they appear to be different motifs. I can make out one of the letters (if that is what they are) as the letter A, but the others are tricky to tell. Maybe it is a child’s name or the maker’s initials. I really wish I could figure this mystery out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/216a9d1f-250b-4f2a-b00b-a2ca84dfd829/Scottie+Dog+quilting+Blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Triple Borders One of the coolest features in this quilt is the triple borders, each approx. 2.5” wide. They really do frame this quilt so nicely. The first border (closest to the dogs) is a solid light pink fabric. Even though the dogs have red and white jackets, they read as pink so this border compliments the jackets nicely. The next border is white, just like the background of the doggie dogs and the backing. The final border is blue, but is more of a royal blue, while the blue used in the scottie dogs is a navy blue. Still, the different blue works so well with this quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/27c6e196-0ca7-4a2f-adb8-616cb854f9f5/Scottie+Dog+backing+Blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Binding, Backing, & Batting The backing of this quilt is one full piece of fabric and is used as the binding as well, with the maker using a self-binding technique of wrapping the backing around the quilt top after it is quilted and stitching the binding down on the front of the quilt. Interestingly, the batting is polyester, however. Although polyester was used as batting as early as the 1940s and 1950s, it wasn’t really popular to use in quilts until the 1960s, according to the book Clues in the Calico by Barbara Brackman (pp. 52-53). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/74fc61e0-674f-4ce6-a945-b03c1e9572b5/Scottie+Dog+Condition+Blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Scottie Dog Quilt - Condition Although this quilt is in remarkable condition, there are some seams that are coming apart and a few stains. I think they will be relatively easy to stitch down and repair. I haven’t washed this quilt yet. I want to wait until warmer weather and hand-wash it. I also want to repair it before washing. it. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-december-update monthly 0.5 2026-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/338f7543-17c6-43a9-a580-671c43c3fd6b/December++2025+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296752911-U2D262HBPSTIZ1TDWS4D/Me+and+Wreath.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296752947-3I67UB54UJ1KYGH5O9Y6/Mom+and+I.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296270217-IRNI84TGJVNHL8IR3AY1/notebook.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296270469-JMGV5D2K4KW1SFHA960G/stocking+ornament.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296271453-ITTPSLN86U5OT54HWVIU/stockings.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296271830-MCN1Y7OEEL4WYZVSJAO3/table+topper.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296750932-FGRFTQQ4IXTLWTHH36G3/Book.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296269489-0I86U0YBBRZI8O8HE7QT/Cath+windows.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296750997-L94CRZ5P9MA3VZTCXHSC/Christmas+haul.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296751915-HFYBKBXY2G8DVQQHULMT/Daisy+two.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296751975-2PFCMABQ5SSY91122VW9/Daisy+with+Pillow.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296753819-PTXOF2EY3GTD4OZJGV0N/Msqc+bag.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296755838-06R4TIUNY9VS1FXJRIGS/Thrifting+Haul+3.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296755988-TJ8ICMQ0UIBO8CXUZYBW/Thrifting+Haul.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296756800-4PWG9U783PS5ADN8BLV0/Wreath+set+up.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296757088-WBG3V7JXMTDMRGOEXZJD/Wreath.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cd625484-7a55-4104-a5c3-8782936e0ef2/no+home+zone.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 0/5 Well, can I give myself a NEGATIVE score on this? I don’t even want to update the picture because it is just that bad! Everything, (and I mean everything) was piled into this corner, from wrapping paper to gifts to projects to old quilts—everything! Wow, what a difference! Things went down hill FAST with this goal. And this is unusual because usually by December, I have conquered my goals for the year. This one got me! I am not even sure how to handle that. Do I add it to next year’s goals? Or move on? Hmmm. End of 2025 Score: 0/5 Unfortunately, I didn’t achieve this goal, and I am not sure how to move forward with that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296755988-TJ8ICMQ0UIBO8CXUZYBW/Thrifting+Haul.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 5/5 This was a great month for this! YAY! Because of the Countdown to Christmas event, I really didn’t have a lot of time to buy things. I was busy making videos, projects, and, of course, wrapping and getting ready for the holidays. I did, however, do a bit (quite a bit) of thrifting. I have been making upcycled sweatshirts that I saw on TikTok. They are so much fun to make! Because of this and because I want to grow my stash of flannel fabric, I did buy a lot of flannels this month. How could I resist? They were all 50% off the day after Thanksgiving! Other than that (although that is a lot), I didn’t buy much and that, of course, was intentional, right? End of 2025 Reflection: I am calling this goal achieved! It has become a habit really think about my purchases. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518451557-ZVUQSEYUTUD6A6LIDJTL/fabric%21.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 I am super proud of myself on this one, too! I really only used scraps this month! I made stockings, snap bags, a journal cover, and more, just from scraps. I find myself reaching for them more and more. I have also continued to work on my cathedral windows quilt and finally have it to a size where I don’t think it will end up in a dumpster after I am gone (Ha!). It is actually a quilt size! YAY! End of 2025 Reflection: Goal achieved! Scrap quilting is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! I find myself reaching for them more and more. I think one of the reasons is because I have my scraps so well organized now, which has been great! I am love that I can see them. For me, seeing them helps me use them. I don’t have to dig through bins to find what I want or need. It really has made a big difference! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296753819-PTXOF2EY3GTD4OZJGV0N/Msqc+bag.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 4/5 Now, this goal really has a lot to do with the MSQC’s box this year. It always gets me out of my comfort zone. Although many of the projects did this, the most memorable is the bag I made. It has a square bottom but the actual bag is round-ish. It messed with my head some and made me want to quit the project completely. From my experience, this is where we grow as quilter. Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is huge in the growing process, right? This bag did that. End of 2025 Reflection: I tried so many new things this year in part, I believe, because of this goal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1767296752911-U2D262HBPSTIZ1TDWS4D/Me+and+Wreath.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: December Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 3/5 I was kind of stuck at home most of the month, but I did manage to get out some! The highlight of the month was taking a wreath making class with a good friend (she didn’t want her picture shown). We had so much fun! I learned about different greenery and actually made a wreath! YAY! Granted, it isn’t quilting, but it is something creative! End of 2025 Reflection: I tried so many new things this year in part, I believe, because of this goal. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2025-recap monthly 0.5 2025-12-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7b7cb76f-986e-43fd-9b01-a543bea55590/Wrap+Up+Countdown+to+Christmas+2025+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3c6f6841-5657-4584-a6cc-c0bebcf3e3db/Countdown+to+Christmas+2025.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Click on this image to see the recap video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/35e93982-c59b-424e-a51a-5299801aacf5/Day+25+BLOG+Running+Total.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2025 monthly 0.5 2025-12-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e2b0ba65-1686-42f3-8212-6707edb284e4/Countdown+to+Christmas+2025.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Click on this image to watch this year’s playlist! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3d40eed8-c13d-4926-a538-7ff6467b7039/Day+1+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 1: Snow Globe Winter Journey Pattern & Fabric Panel This is so cute! I must have said the word “cute” sixty times in this video, but it is true! It is CUTE! The pattern contains two different variations—a wall hanging (34.5” x 33.5”) and a table runner (14” x 50”). The panel is my Missouri Star Quilt Company and is also called Snow Globe Winter Journey. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): Pattern: $10.00 + Fabric Panel: $8.00 = $18.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ff387ae9-4c83-4d2d-9be6-218f6daa9a4a/Untitled+design+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 2: Mini Rotary Cutter This mini rotary cutter is both adorable and practical. As quilters, we can always use another rotary cutter, right? In true MSQC fashion, they added a little extra with the words “Wishing You A Very Quilty Christmas” on the blade and making it in red and white like a candy cane. They do have one like this for sale on their website, but it is in a different color. The stocking pouch is a neat extra item. Love it! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): 28mm Klara Rotary Cutter: $19.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/842353d1-43f2-4604-8193-d230608b3546/Day+3+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 3: Charm Pack Oh my goodness! I LOVE when we get fabric! Day 3’s item is a beautiful charm pack (42 5” squares) by Maywood Studio. The fabric is called Mix & Match. There are so many great colors in this set, including orange, yellow, pink, and turquoise. So pretty! My Estimated Value:$14.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/966bb9cf-0694-4aa2-8f33-b2124b8d11c3/Templates+and+Pattern.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 4: Templates & Pattern This is a great set! Included are two templates—one of a cat and one of a dog—that are to be used with the included pattern for a mug rug. The templates are large with the dog template measuring approx. 6” x 8.5” and the cat template measuring approx. 6” x 6”. My Estimated Value: Templates ($5.00 each) + Pattern ($10.00) = $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/870e8c5b-6a86-4ba8-9180-a9a3e2638548/Day+5+Mug+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 5: Stoneware Mug I know so many people who are going to be happy to see this! This stoneware mug is the fourth in the series, but my hope is each year we will continue to get one of these, especially for those who haven’t gotten the box in previous years. This one says Sewing Mends the Soul on one side and has a quilt block on the other. It is stoneware with wax-relief designs. My Estimated Value: $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/312b5122-dfc7-499c-88b2-673788ef7c3e/Day+6+Alph+and+Pattern.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 6: Alphabet Templates, Pattern, & Sew Light Fusible What a great project! This item includes a set of alphabet templates (plus the & and # signs), a pattern called Word of The Day Pillow, and Sew Light Fusible Adhesive. The pattern offers a lot of options for crumb pieced projects of different sizes. The letters measure 5” high and range from about 1.5” to 5” wide, depending on the letter. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $23.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b0c77c02-af01-426b-98e4-98cbdc8574b1/Day+6+Binder.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 7: Fabric & Appliqué Storage Binder Everything has been so cohesive this year. I love that! This binder is to be used to organize your 5” precuts, stencils, and appliqué shapes. It includes (2) vinyl zipper pouches that measure 7.5” x 8” and (2) fabric storage boards that measure 6” x 6”. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $18.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c133d58e-1381-4f1e-a621-986a6329027c/Day+8+Wrapping+Paper.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 8: Scrappy Celebrations Wrapping Paper Book I was really surprised at this item! I don’t think they have done anything like this before, and I love it! This book of flat wrapping paper is called Scrappy Celebrations. It is designed by Judy Gauthier and published by C&T Publishing. It says on the back that is “designed exclusively for Missouri Star Quilt Company. It features 12 sheets of 19” x 30” wrapping paper (4 sheets of each design) and includes 12 matching die-cut gift tags. I love this! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cbf6558d-b8fe-4ec8-a993-a6201a098e9c/Day+9+Bias+Tape+Tool+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 9: Bias Tape Tool Kit This bias tape tool kit is includes (4) bias tape makers and an awl with a wooden handle. The sizes of bias tape makers are 1/4”, 1/2”, 3/4”, and 1”. It also comes with directions for making both single fold and double fold bias tape. The hard plastic case with the foam inserts keeps the bias makers organized and in place. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0563ec85-a3bb-4b3c-afb8-27c196c3dab2/Day+10+charcuterie+Board.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 10: Quilty Charcuterie Board Today’s item is a quilty charcuterie board shaped like a quilt block. It measure approx. 12” x 12” and is the perfect item for serving snacks. It also has a place that you can hang it on the wall. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $25.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e18a0d32-56e5-4751-8516-4f9882672b58/Labels.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 11: Woven Labels Ohhhh! These are so pretty! Included in this set are (9) woven labels by Mimki Kim Labels. These will make wonderful embellishments for quilts and other projects! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $9.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c71a86fd-805f-43a0-8072-af682c8ebcaf/Day+12+Zipper+Pouch.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 12: Sewing Tool Organizer This handy zipper pouch is perfect for keeping all of your sewing supplies. Just imagine bringing this to a class or retreat? Perfect! It has three compartments and sections to hold your scissors, seam ripper, rotary cutter, extra needles, and more! The tag says you can even put your clapper in it! Perfect! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $9.00 (We are in the black! YAY!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/143000ae-2bc9-4a31-9927-8351f6c1dde5/Day+13+Pouch+Pattern+.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 13: Snappy Pouch & (6) Snap Bands Included in today’s item is a pattern for a snappy pouch (anyone else remember those?) and (6) snap bands. This item tells me that everything old is new again! This pattern gives instructions for making a snap pouch that measures 6.25” x 8.5”. On the back of the pattern, the supplies listed are for (3) snap bags. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $16.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/667b350f-da4e-4a58-8a21-f766d02a79ac/Ornaments+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 14: (2) Stoneware Ornaments These quilt-themed stoneware and are made with a wax relief process. Both of the 2 3/4” ornaments are in the MSQC branding colors, with one being navy and one being grey. We received two last year, too. One was red and one was turquoise. With these, we have a total of four ornaments. On the back of these ornaments it says “Missouri Star Quilt Company.” My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5075e932-9185-49a1-95f7-9480c97f7bfc/Day+15+Tin+and+Notions+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 15: Spool Tin & Thread Notions In this tin that looks like a spool of thread, there are small notions including (8) spool pegs; (8) spool wraps; (8) bobbin clasps; (8) bobbin wraps; and (5) silicon thimbles, all in bright colors making them easy to find and grab when you need them. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $10.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/db6f1105-ac08-4182-b31d-b0cc6ebddf05/Day+16+Tin+and+Notions+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 16: Machine & Wrist Pin Magnets Day 16’s items are all about pins and magnets! We received a cat-shaped magnet that has a suction cup on the back, which is perfect for attaching to the side of your machine. The other items is a snap bracelet style pin holder for on the wrest. Both are great gadgets that will come in handy while sewing and quilting. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): Cat Pin Holder ($6.00) + Wrist Pin Holder ($10.00) = $16.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f1e3ff74-d3e9-4fdf-b2d5-aa9b092b0777/Day+17+LED+Lights+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 17: Missouri Star LED String Lights I have to admit that this isn’t my favorite item, but I am not going to like them all, right? This string of LED lights features little Missouri Star quilt blocks on the 7 ft. of lights. They take (2) AA batteries. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $7.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1c95d7c7-f0c7-42de-9346-e0c431a56595/Day+18+Puzzle+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 18: Winter Stardust Pattern & Puzzle What a unique gift! This 20” x 20” puzzle has 400 pieces and the pieces are numbered. The pattern makes a quilt that is 70” x 70” and uses 10”squares. The puzzle is also in a nice zipper pouch that has a quilt block printed on it and has a zipper closure. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): Pattern ($10.00) + Puzzle & Pouch ($15.00) = $25.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0b8fb8df-ac9b-4942-9ccb-a9855e60b9f8/Day+19+Embroidery+Kit+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 19: Ingrid’s Wildflowers Mini Blooms Embroidery Kit This wonderful kit comes with (20) different mini bloom (flower motifs) instruction cards; (10) peel and stitch wash away embroidery sheets with (2) motifs on each sheet (20 motifs in all); (6) balls of 5g perle cotton embroidery floss, embroidery notions (two needles and a needle threader). This kit is a great introduction to MSQC’s Ingrid’s Wildflowers larger sets. Check out their website for those and the beautiful story behind these motifs. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $30.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8e030163-33a2-4593-8b4e-a71a11b53db4/fabric+blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 20: Fabric Panel This is a beautiful fabric panel, which has me a bit curious as to what is to come since it is odd with the color blocks. The entire panel measures 1 yard by 44” (width of fabric). It contains a checkerboard border that measures 10” x 36” with each square being 2”; two beige sections with one measuring 4” x 36” and the other measuring 9” x 16”; a blue section that measures 12” x 36”; a green, a purple, and an orange section that each measure 9” x 16”. So interesting! The colors are beautiful! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $13.90 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9e01520c-640c-4938-9913-129bc8e8fef6/Day+21+Shoulder+Bag+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 21: Simple Quilty Shoulder Bag Pattern & Kit We knew something was coming, didn’t we? YAY! Love this kit that goes with Day 22’s pattern and has the option of adding embroidery from Day 21’s item. The kit includes the pattern, Sew Light Fusible Woven Interfacing (20” x 24”), the strap, cording, and hardware. This will be a great project to make! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): Pattern ($10.00), Hardware/Straps ($12.00) and Interfacing ($2.00) = $24.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9d282b53-c144-40aa-9f81-a087e0fb826a/Book+Blogs.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 22: Handmade Mysteries Book & Instructions This is a very clever idea! This book contains two mysteries, which are both written by Hillary Doan Sperry, Jenny’s daughter. In the book there are instructions for making two different blocks, one called Merry-Go-Round and the other is called Fly-Away Home. There are even instructions for making quilts with the blocks. There is also a QR code on the “Dear Reader” page where you can listen to the audiobook read by Jenny Doan. My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e1c0da2b-75f7-42c2-8e82-e3291dfc11bc/journal+kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 23: Quilted Notebook Cover Project Kit Includes notebook, pattern, and two embroidery pieces. I did make this and there are a few areas that I want to address: first, the cover of the pattern says it is meant to cover a composition notebook, yet that isn’t what was sent to us. The one sent is slightly bigger than a composition notebook and doesn’t work as well. Also, the directions say to use 1/2” seam allowance on page 2 under “finishing.” I think this is a typo. Please use 1/4” or the size doesn’t work. Lastly, make sure to leave the opening anywhere except at the bottom as mentioned in the pattern. ❤️ My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $16.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7d3676fd-4fca-4fb9-83ba-0e0b50af1d90/Day+24+Handwoven+Bowl.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 24: Handwoven Bowl This is such a wonderful item! I also love that MSQC added a tag so we know a little bit more about it. This is printed on the back of the card: “The basket was dyed and handwoven by skilled weavers in Rwanda. The weaving craft has been passed down from mother to daughter for many generation, preserving a rich legacy and bridging the past with the present. Through their craft, women are enabled to provide for their families and pave a brighter future for the next generation.” This is offered from a company called Ethik and the item is on their website for purchase. The bowl measures approx. 5” in diameter and is about 1.5” high. Value Per the Website: $30.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f0a5b3e5-073d-4445-bb84-daee95adcd34/Day+25+Sewing+Caddy.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Day 25: Spinning Tool Caddy This “Merry-Sew-Round” Spinning Tool Caddy is meant to help us stay organized with places for rotary cutters, scissors, and other sewing tools on the top tier and spools of thread and pins and needle on the bottom. Unfortunately, the screw in the middle of my caddy is off center and the pegs dow not fit. I hope others had success with this one! My Estimated Value (My Opinion): $20.00 (if it goes together well) :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/35e93982-c59b-424e-a51a-5299801aacf5/Day+25+BLOG+Running+Total.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ee79e89a-d992-4f76-8289-b6f96a481588/Sew+Some+Holiday+cheer+Postcard.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d6fb53e3-1760-43c4-961e-dbd0f4a49e52/Stitch+Mas+Postcard.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d2e0f7a2-54bc-49c4-8a3d-f26e5c53fa2b/Stitching+through+the+snow+Postcard.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862569055-HF5F2J8EX3LNY4T8ONGG/Postcards+the+Hamilton+Family.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862566748-8IOBFZLSZV0OM33VFCIP/Postcards+Natalie.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862567851-0EAUJUC3KYR51FM4GB03/Postcards+Ron+and+Jenny.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862568011-DOGFQ0YJGZHT1POVQ5WN/Postcards+Stitching+Bestie.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862566723-Z6G2U99TEXUW3PM5EKEI/Postcards+Misty.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862565309-0T049VYJ70AI4I1Y82A1/Postcards+Chuck.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862565382-DP5GRU30RVTRUGN9URL0/Postcards+Courtenay.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862565309-0T049VYJ70AI4I1Y82A1/Postcards+Chuck.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862565382-DP5GRU30RVTRUGN9URL0/Postcards+Courtenay.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862566723-Z6G2U99TEXUW3PM5EKEI/Postcards+Misty.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862566748-8IOBFZLSZV0OM33VFCIP/Postcards+Natalie.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862567851-0EAUJUC3KYR51FM4GB03/Postcards+Ron+and+Jenny.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862568011-DOGFQ0YJGZHT1POVQ5WN/Postcards+Stitching+Bestie.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764862569055-HF5F2J8EX3LNY4T8ONGG/Postcards+the+Hamilton+Family.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2025 https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-november-update monthly 0.5 2025-12-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/941e7a34-2beb-488a-a5fa-8f0482e206d4/November+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to see this month’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088555980-GXGUSEJ2DJ1Z5384B6AG/strips.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088327894-DYT5XDZHZNQ1GEW6EFEC/center+strips.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088327891-M300W7F2ZA5OIK6H11CS/blocks.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1763324427298-X1Q1AP7L1OO5MZQ4XQX1/back+of+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088328865-EHOWD4KEPTYQ5YKKKWU2/Full+Strip+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088169663-IMT66SKULPI2OOJPTJ4J/leftover+Strips+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764006012455-0EQ1424HM5BU08XX15BI/quilting+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764006013586-V7GE7K8Q3BUGX6ZLVIB0/quilt+quilted.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088169625-FF2XAQAY8ZC1IP9KDA7I/Surger+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764006012429-XXWIIHJXBMXE1S9DLIIM/surger.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1763324425870-HYYXGI6V6FSGW6CM8NHB/mitch+and+I+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1763324425002-NO6QLB30UQPD81B5O69G/thrift+haul+vermont.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764005836944-B7UOK6XLLIFDLDOGRWQX/donation+quilt+2.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764005837024-RKD5762SJF5NCXXTSCC7/donation+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764005835931-K1R9D2FAWVUGB4UG7X8B/donation+afghan+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764087895043-F0AH69KRV1A5GS3NF9CO/cath+windows.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764087991683-QIV64YKHM1ZKGSVSZSC9/Cathedral+windows.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764087895033-V6KOCGKCBU99BDGOCO90/Shady+Maples.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764088556968-H7J5KYVUXWV0NHM9QW3H/LOQ+.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764005838087-RY433HK5D8LQXT5OYWX1/Trees.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/53758764-022c-460a-817a-10ebf542ac6e/IMG_1901.JPG Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 1/5 This is a hard one to confess to, but I didn’t do well at all with this goal. I started off really well, but when we came home from Vermont, things started to get dumped into the No Home Zone area AGAIN! And as we all know, once it starts, it is like a magnet for more and more stuff. Needless to say, the No Home Zone has been piled up yet again. I had so much hope for the solution of removing Aunt Amy’s Magic Bin in September! It worked for a month, right? I am continuing to struggle with this one. Any ideas to help would be appreciated! Glow: Again, just like in September, I am recognizing I have a problem keeping this area clear and am assessing how to find a solution or decide to just live with it. Grow: Try a few solutions and really look at what is being dumped in that area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1763324425002-NO6QLB30UQPD81B5O69G/thrift+haul+vermont.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 5/5 After Goal 1’s failure, I am happy to say I knocked this one out of the park! Other than thrifting (I did thrift a lot!), I only purchased a few new items that I needed for videos. YAY! I even resisted the urge to hit a few quilt shops when we were traveling! I am very proud of myself for this one, because it wasn’t easy. I was tempted a few times, but didn’t give in. Keeping with the idea of intentional purchases, I created a running list of items I wanted (and a few I need) to purchase on Black Friday. Since these will be intentional, they are well within the perimeter of this goal. Glow: I resisted the urge to mindlessly shop for fabric and other impulse items that I didn’t actually need. Grow: Continue to be intentional with my purchases. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/54db0c4e-2be6-4621-b36d-94422675b9c2/scrap+projects+this+month.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 Again, I really did well (again!) with this goal! YAY! I used the strips of fabric to make the scrappy string quilt (AND finished it with scraps!); I worked on my Forever Project of Cathedral Windows while traveling; I finished several quilts including a scrappy Patriotic quilt (using the Sew Merry Pattern) for a Veteran’s charity; and so much more! Although I used a ton of scraps, I still have a ton of scraps. HA! How does that happen? Do they multiple at night while I sleep? Glow: I am reaching for scraps more and more, especially now that they are organized and I can see them all. Grow: Continue to keep up the excellent work! Will I end up running out of scraps? Probably not, but I am putting a dent in them! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764006012429-XXWIIHJXBMXE1S9DLIIM/surger.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 4/5 I have been having fun using thrifting items, and I think that qualifies as getting out of my comfort zone, maybe? I also pushed myself with the scrappy string quilt. This quilt was THICK! I resisted the urge to send it out to be quilted. I wanted to try to quilt it myself, and I am so glad I did. It turned out so pretty! Now, that’s not to say it wasn’t a challenge! It was! But it was also a lot of fun, and now I have a beautiful quilt made from items that may have ended up in a landfill. The next thing I did was using my serger to finish the edge of the string quilt before quilting. WOW, what a difference that made! A viewer told me about this tip! It helped so much! I am going to start doing that with all my quilts. So smart! Glow: Tiny steps in being brave, but steps nonetheless. Grow: Continue to get out of my sewing comfort zone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1764087895033-V6KOCGKCBU99BDGOCO90/Shady+Maples.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: November Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 3/5 I am continuing to listen to my body, and respond accordingly (and appropriately!) in and out of my sewing room. I am spending more time with friends and family, including visiting my youngest son and his girlfriend in Vermont. This has helped my mental health so much! Brendan and I also spent a day in Lancaster, going to see Noah for the second time! Adding these breaks has helped, especially since I tend to be a homebody. Glow: Doing more things outside of the house with friends and family. Grow: I REALLY need to add consistent exercise to my life. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/thrifting-fabric-tips monthly 0.5 2025-11-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/47632131-185d-4dc4-b61d-9379a50c3fc4/5+Tips+for+Thrifting+Fabric+Blue.jpg Blog - Five Tips for Thrifting Fabric - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/084550f6-8059-4e0a-9b23-3f5ed0c38039/table+linens.jpg Blog - Five Tips for Thrifting Fabric - Home Decor This includes curtains, table coverings, placemats, cloth napkins, tea towels, and more. Not only can you use the fabric from these items to make quilts and other projects, you can also see how things are made, create templates, and think of new ways to use items like this in your sewing room. For example, I bought rag wreaths and used the fabric to make a string quilt for the fall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cdf7950b-94b3-45a9-a105-e27bde255b69/clothing+%281%29.jpg Blog - Five Tips for Thrifting Fabric - Clothing This one may be obvious, but hear me out: there is so much we can use from the fabric section of thrift stores—many you may not have thought of such as making pillows, scrunchies, tote bags, table runners, and even quilts from the fabric we can harvest from the clothing that is out there. Here are some tips: Natural Fibers: I always like to look at the fiber content and usually stick with natural fibers, but you can also find some beautiful items that have a mix of natural and synthetic fibers. That said, knowing your style and your favorite fabrics to work with is key when looking for clothing to use for fabric. You don’t want to add more clutter with something you won’t use, either. Bigger is Better: Look for clothing that is very large. I love looking in the mens big and tall section. You can get a lot of fabric from one garment in this area. Flannel Is Everywhere! Look for flannel in both the women and men department, especially in the area with pajamas. One of my favorite places to get flannel is from long flannel nightgowns and pajama sets. Don’t Forget The Buttons & Zippers: As you are finding fabric, make sure to look at the buttons, zippers, appliqués, and other embellishments that you can harvest from these garments. All of these things are expensive to buy new and many times the quality is better on garments. Scrubs: Probably my favorite tip is to look for scrubs. Thrift stores, at least around my area, seem to have a huge section devoted to scrubs. These are usually made of cotton, they often have fun prints, and are usually well-made sturdy material. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d35c0938-c482-4ba0-97d8-3139e37326f4/totebags.jpg Blog - Five Tips for Thrifting Fabric - Accessories This is another great place to find fabric and/or projects to make. Look a tote bags, purses, scarves, hair accessories, men’s ties—so many possibilities! Make sure to check this area, too, and again, make sure to look at the hardware on purses and totes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0a7cddb1-9046-47cf-b625-7fac461d7b27/bedding.jpg Blog - Five Tips for Thrifting Fabric - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/scrappy-string-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-11-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0e5e5937-327a-4310-a3bc-812f9a06770e/Scrap+Happy%21.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Make it stand out To see the video tutorial, please click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bd934071-2ac7-491b-a9a1-468195aff178/rag+wreaths.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Quilt Inspiration It all started this summer when I came across these rag wreaths at a thrift shop. I knew immediately what I was going to do with them—harvest the fabrics and make string quilts! I thought I only needed two (I should have bought them all!), but a few friends also bought the ones I left and gave them to me. I have the best friends! Please note: You do not have to use scraps from a rag wreath to make this! You can use any scraps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e5ada7be-4517-490f-b271-b6a99b34809c/scraps.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Preparing the Strips After untying all of the strips, it was time to press them. This was a big job! I sprayed them with some water and started pressing and pressing and pressing. So of the strips were polyester or polyester blends, so I set those aside as I wanted to use 100% cotton fabric. I ended up getting about 200 strips per wreath. It was a lot of strips! I also supplemented with fabric from my own vintage fabric stash, making sure to use fabric that matched the 1970s/1980s print vibe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b82c7e8a-3f61-4413-a6e8-c3dee8fa1c4e/trays.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Cutting and Gathering Strips The strips are sometimes called strings or noodles. I like to use strips that are between 1.25” and 2”. Having a nice variety of widths will give you are nice scrappy feel to the quilt. As for the length, that depends on the size of the base you are using. It is important to make sure that you have some long strips that span the length of the block from corner to the opposite corner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bab59695-90f7-4b8d-9b3d-e81e1a606949/measure.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Decide on a Foundation You will also need base fabric that is cut slightly bigger than the size you want. For example, I want 10” blocks so I cut my base fabric to 10.5”. This will make more sense when we trim the blocks down. Once the bases are cut, measure from corner to corner. This will be length you need for your longest strip. For this size, I needed a 15” middle strip. Please note: You do not have to use fabric as a base. You can use paper or a light non-fusible interfacing, if you would like. I like using fabric because it gives the blocks a solid foundation. It does add some bulk, however, so make sure to be aware of that. If you do use paper, make sure to shorten your stitch length some, making it easier to remove the paper when you are finished making the blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5ef3a093-ca6b-4b6c-9016-0a899fb509a1/first+strip.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Add The First Strip Starting in the center, place a strip or string from corner to corner with the right side of the fabric facing up. Next, place a second strip on top of the center fabric with right sides together. Sew down the one side of the fabric strips, sewing through the foundation as well. Make sure to use at least 1/4” seam allowance. After sewing, open and press the seam outward. Add another strip to the other side of the center strip, with right sides together. Repeat by sewing and pressing. Continue to add strips to each side until the square is covered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fa083170-8b06-4248-8793-8721dcf7f3a7/second+strip.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Add The Second Strip Next, place the next strip, pretty side facing down, on top of the middle strip lining up the edges. Sew 1/4” down edge of the strip going through the first strip, the second strip, and the foundation. After sewing, set the seam and press the strip out. Repeat this process by adding the third strip to the opposite side of the middle strip. Keep working out on each side, adding strips, pressing, adding more strips, until you reach the corners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c7265083-107a-43bc-a340-7e7e6ebefe4b/third+strip.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Keep Adding Strips Keep working out on each side, adding strips, pressing, adding more strips, until you reach the corners. The number of strips needed will depend on the width of the strips and the size of your foundation. Adding a lot of strips will add interest to your scrappy blocks. For the ones I made, I used between 10 and 14 strips per block. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8b2474ce-f7e9-411d-9711-dbe6de3040f2/corners.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Corners When you get to the corners, make sure that the fabric you are using is big enough that it won’t get lost in the seam allowance when sewing the blocks together after they are trimmed down. This will save you a lot of trouble and help with reduce the bulk of the blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/de695a5d-8d0e-4810-a979-fc4f1098b657/trimming.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Press Well & Trim This is an extra step and not necessary, but is something I like to do to insure that the block is square and that the corners are included in the block. I turn the block over after pressing and trim down the extra pieces that are hanging over the edges. Set these aside for a future scrap project. Next, turn the square over so the right side is up. This is when I trim the block down to size, which for me is 10”. This allows me to make sure everything is lined up and contained in the desired block size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4721aea9-960b-48b8-8d70-9ecd08cd4f92/squaring+up.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Square Up Blocks Once your edges are trimmed up, turn the block over to the front to square up the block and make it the size you would like it to be. To do this, I like to use a square ruler that is larger than the block. In the example I show in the video, I want the block to measure 10” x 10”, but I made my foundations slightly larger at 10.5” x 10.5”. To trim this block down to 10” x 10”, I turned the block over with the pretty side facing up. I placed the ruler on the block, making sure that it is hanging over the 10” marks on the bottom and the left side as shown. Next, I trim the top and the left side. After these are trimmed, I rotate the block so the top right corner is in the bottom left corner. Line up the 10” mark and trim the top and right side down to 10” square. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/95ab27dc-c58f-41a1-afe7-d0c8ec356f5b/layout+1.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Laying Out the Blocks There are a few ways to layout the blocks. Personally, I like the look of the diamonds coming together, but play with these and decide what you like best. They are so much fun and rewarding to make! When sewing them together, make sure to press the seams open. There is a lot of bulk with the strings and the background fabric, if you used fabric instead of paper. Opening the seams will allow this to lay flatter and make the finishing process easier! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9058197a-0fa2-4fb9-85e2-f325a40badf9/layout+2.jpg Blog - Scrappy String Quilt - Alternate Layout This is a cool layout, too! There are so many variations! Have fun playing with these blocks, trying different colors, layouts, and projects! It is so rewarding to take scraps like these and make something beautiful out of them! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-sunbonnet-sue-quilt monthly 0.5 2026-01-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/97183e02-7c28-4094-ba24-2fed9930cc9d/Lessons+from+An+Old+Sunbonnet+sue+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063025549-FPFIXLBN4HKFTVJLDR6B/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Whole.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Those Blocks! Between the embroidery, appliqué, and the yellow fabric—wow! Love this so much! Let’s talk about how this is constructed: First, the maker used either a iron-on transfer or a graphic to get the Sunbonnet Sue motif outline transferred onto the background fabric which measures 9.5” finished (10” unfinished). Next, the maker added the appliquéd dress and hat. After that, they embroidered the face, boots, and embellishments, bringing this Sunbonnet Sue block to life! After completing the appliqué and embroidered units, the maker added a 1.5” yellow border to each block, framing it beautifully! LOVE this! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/11015626-279b-4959-9428-1a7f6cb59127/closeup+of+fabric+sunbonnet+sue.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Yellow Fabric Let’s chat about the yellow fabric. This really had me stumped for a bit because it is in excellent condition and there is so much of it, over two yards by today’s measurements. This classic 1930s print is yellow with small white, green, and orange flowers and black accents. It is a small-scale print indicative of that time period. The fabric is in the border of the blocks, in the second border of the quilt, and in the binding. In the quilt itself, there isn’t much wear on these fabrics, although there is in the binding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063024606-KDEAUS6G1VL9BJ293GII/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Whole+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Other Fabrics Although the yellow fabric is the star of this quilt, giving it beautiful frames, we also need to talk about the florals used in the appliqué portion of the Sunbonnet Sue dresses. All of these fabrics are classic 1930s prints as well, with a few that may be from the 1940s. There is a beautiful balance of colors showing the maker paid close attention to the placement. There aren’t any duplicates in this. I would love to think that the maker collected scraps from friends. Wouldn’t it be neat if this is a friendship quilt? All of the maker’s friends could be represented in this quilt! Although I don’t have any evidence to support this, I do love dreaming about stuff like this! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063020773-G7ACQPJ6UNOJ5NF14F6F/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Curved+Block+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Embroidered Blocks Aren’t these little girls just darling? Oh my goodness! Their little matching outfits complete with an embroidered muff—I love it so much! All 20 blocks are uniquely embroidered with complimenting embroidery floss. There is some wear on these, but overall, they are in in excellent condition, especially considering the age. If you look closely right beside her shoes, you can see a piece of black embroidery floss behind the fabric. You can also see how the pink hue on the fabric from bleeding. I think this bleeding comes from the maroon embroidery floss. None of this, however, takes away from this design. I love it so much! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063018372-LDS8FW7BPQC13UHGH7Q8/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Quilting+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Quilting Let’s talk about the quilting, shall we? Again, like everything in this quilt including the binding, the quilting is done completely by hand. The stitches are small and even, too, and enhance this quilt so well! the maker used a grid quilting design in the blocks and a rope design everywhere else. One important note is the maker quilted directly over the embroidery. Oftentimes I see that the maker will quilt under the embroidery or around it, but I don’t think I have anything in my collection that shows the maker quilting over the embroidery. I love this! It also gives me permission to do the same. I love that even more! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063021317-OZXKP4M0O1XZL3274FBG/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Curved+Binding.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Binding This curved binding! It is the best!! I love seeing a curved binding on a quilt that has a lot of geometric elements like this one. It brings a softness to the design. This binding was sewn on by hand. It is a double-folded bias binding. The curves are beautiful! The binding fabric is the same yellow fabric that is in the blocks and borders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1761063014882-49RQMT262YJQL6YFEEVF/Sunbonnet+Sue+Quilt+Backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Sunbonnet Sue Embroidered Quilt - Batting & Backing The batting is the same fabric as the borders on the front. It isn’t one big piece. It is two separate pieces that were sewn together by hand. The backing fabric is very stained and worn. The batting is a thin cotton batting. Overall, even though this quilt has a lot of wear, it is so soft and cozy. It would be perfect to cuddle under on a cool summer night. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/5-fall-projects-to-make monthly 0.5 2025-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ef32cb36-9672-4155-b5cf-b7336673c0c6/Scrappy+pumpkin+quilt+block+%283%29.jpg Blog - FIVE Fall Quilty Projects To Make - 1. Scrappy Pumpkin Block This is a fun one and oh-so-easy! It is perfect for using up any scraps you may have! You can make these with any color, too! Add some borders and make placemats! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/35b4709c-749d-48b1-89df-e687692d1177/Scrap+Happy%21.jpg Blog - FIVE Fall Quilty Projects To Make - 2. String Quilt Project Although these can be made with any color way, I really love the fall vibe of this scrap-busting projects. Use up those scrappy strips to make a wonderful fall-inspired quilt. Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/09469048-8861-4160-a03d-761792c67066/one+layer+cake+quilt.jpg Blog - FIVE Fall Quilty Projects To Make - 3. EASY Layer Cake Quilt Using just one fall layer cake (you can use any!), I will show you how to make this super easy and fun quilt! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/57efe7d5-03a7-46d8-b33a-8a1c1d878666/NO+SPEND+QUILT.jpg Blog - FIVE Fall Quilty Projects To Make - 4. Budget-Friendly Scrap Quilt Not only do I use all scraps for this beauty, it also uses a free pattern and is perfect for the autumn season! This full tutorial takes you step-by-step in how to make this No Spend Quilt! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9edcecb6-c3db-43d7-9fcb-d80240a7c71a/Scrappy+Fall+Tabletopper.jpg Blog - FIVE Fall Quilty Projects To Make - 5. Table Topper Although this project was highlighted in my Christmas in July 2025 series, it is the perfect scrappy fall project that you are going to love! This uses a few simple blocks to make stunning results! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/trash-to-sewing-room monthly 0.5 2025-10-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/18df6d0b-c33b-4490-8eb4-d3d5be3ed9b7/Trash+to+Sewing+Room+Upcycling.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to see the video on this! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e245e30-85b2-4bff-a0a7-672b9653ed6b/tp+rolls.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Empty Toilet Paper Tubes These are great, versatile, and if you are in my house, seem to be plentiful! I use these these a few things in my sewing space. Here are a few uses: Store Binding, Ribbon, or Trim: One word of caution—these are not acid free, so this is only a temporary storage solution. To keep the binding on toilet paper rolls, I cut a slit partway down one side and slide the edge of the binding into the slit. I then wrap it around the tube. This is perfect when you are adding binding to a project because it keeps it tidy and together. Discarding Old Rotary Blades: This works really well for carefully wrapping up the rotary blades before discarding them. Simply cut open the tube, carefully wrap your old blades in the cardboard, and tape it up really well. I use painter’s tape for this. You may need more than one tube to make sure it doesn’t cut through. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/241bad7e-f408-4615-a0e4-de640c408e51/peanut+butter+container.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Plastic Peanut Butter Lids Of course you could use any lid for this, but personally, I love using peanut butter lids because of their size and the rim around the edge. I wash these and use the clean lids to hold any small items around my sewing room such as clips, pins, or even small pieces of fabric. These work especially well when cleaning your sewing machine and keeping all the screws, feet, and other pieces together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/22649282-f943-4316-ac7a-9a2a9ef9083b/tissue+box.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Empty Tissue Boxes These are perfect for loose threads, fabric scraps, or general trash around your sewing space. The plastic keeps all of the trash from escaping or clinging to other things, the size and shape works well on your cutting table, and you can recycle or discard the entire thing when it is full. You can also empty it and keep using it over and over until it is ready to be replaced. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5e88fc36-59ea-4513-a0be-8b50cf128d9f/lettuce+containters.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Plastic Lettuce Containers These are great for so many things! Another word of caution, however: just like the toilet paper rolls, the plastic lettuce containers are not meant for long-term storage. As for temporary uses, you can use these to gather and organize fabric for a quilt, store small pieces or blocks as you are making a quilt, keep project items contained, or anything else you want to keep altogether in one place. They are also great because you can see what is inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/143590f1-a535-4d6a-9f7c-4458102357f5/pill+bottles.jpg Blog - Trash to Sewing Room - Empty Pill Bottles I start by cleaning the pill bottles and taking off the labels. If you really want to, you can also put some pretty washi tape or even labels on them, but they also work perfectly without that. There are many uses for pill bottles, but there two ideas are my favorite: These are PERFECT to use to discard pins and needles. And they last a long time! I have these all over my sewing room. I like to keep one in my hand-sewing kit, on my thread rack, in my sewing machine needle storage container, and in my rolling cart. Since I have an abundance of them, they take a long time to fill, but when they are filled, I throw them away. If the lid isn’t a child safety lid, I use a piece of painter’s tape over the lid to secure them and insure no one will get hurt. Pill bottles make the perfect portable storage containers for bobbins! I love using these to organize colors, to take to workshops or retreats, or to just have in the draw to keep them all together. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-october-update monthly 0.5 2025-10-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0bc1ebd6-e778-4bb7-b73d-0b2a426b8094/October+Update+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to see this month’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871360343-MI7DQGPGQNBSP0MADWVI/fall+one+layer+cake+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1760641871981-NYEE5D4OEMWCQZGKYS68/quilted+fall+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871365833-TZDYWYX80G6S2DCJAW87/pumpkins+and+mums.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871363241-DT936QM4D7QVPIUNLMBZ/Witches+hat.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871364916-Y2DN0FOGTYUBYOEKD551/table+topper.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759869516304-7Z2UJK6OM0KIQ8V8USX4/Ghost+Sweatshirt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871360343-74G0JH4ZZC6VVMWOUWD9/Christmas+house+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871362839-ETOR4I0JX4WAE5024W5X/hst.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603798652-Y4J6IYCM9XBR0542U831/quilt+week.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603585795-ZBMHNCY29DGXS9JWIMX4/Purchases+from+Cotton+Candy+Fabrics.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603586849-WVCY20T2F6F1IG2ZF1NK/Purchases+from+Colonial+Needle.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603586912-OF5APV4E42VSXI38Z0F2/Purchases+from+AQS+Shop.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603585718-YBUVUQF26M8LS3RDO35A/Purchases+from+RNK+Distributing+.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603587818-69I15DR8LEI7IC4FO6U4/Purchase+from+Old+Country+Store.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603587892-1JKQSEVBCCITQIF8IA9T/Cotton+Candy+Fabrics+Purchases.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603588742-I57G19UHXMI6Z5VGPR54/Colonial+Needle+Purchases.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757603588984-WB00WGHUQ5ZRCYBB21G3/AQS+Membership+Goodie+Bag.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757604454430-68M6EK8LR33HMK2RCGXD/Thursday+night+fever.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757604454363-EAS9X9SCY3SE26C0LO00/Old+Country+Store.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757604455323-2KJ08J9E9KWGU1QS2QJU/Midsummer.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757604455521-VA24BSDKJ9E7K74YAIW0/fancy+trip+around+the+world.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758117803566-LP32OFXS7PY7KO4X1ELX/Quilt+Show+Goodies.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871361737-312OHWAGHLX0FYLZL4RC/hexie+ironing.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871362065-SNEKMXGIJ9VHOUALWJKC/hexie+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871366853-68BUAVCA4V13J0H75P3U/mom+and+I.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871365873-SO47RC2PJ12VE8E75RW1/Noah.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1760641871979-R7U0LWI0K0V05PFYNOWI/Red%2C+white%2C+and+blue+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1760641872959-OHK5SEQXYLIC4OIRCGW4/fall+soup.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/82dece88-71ea-42ad-b34c-e10b8ed19731/No+home+zone.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 5/5 Look at how good this looks! It is so interesting that just taking Aunt Amy’s magic bin and the cart out of there helps so much! I would be lying if I said it looked like this ALL month. Sometimes I do pile some projects there or dump items in the corner, but I have been really good at cleaning it up regularly. I guess that’s the key, right? You can have an area like this (we all have an area like this, I think), but having a regular maintenance plan is important, too. Glow: I did it! Most of the time! Grow: Continue to keep up with this, especially going into the holiday season. Yikes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758117803566-LP32OFXS7PY7KO4X1ELX/Quilt+Show+Goodies.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 4/5 On Sept. 10, 2025, my friend Gail and I went to the AQS Quilt Show near Lancaster, PA. We had a blast! I bought a bunch of stuff, but, for the most part, these items were planned purchases. For example, I bought appliqué scissors to finish cutting away the backs of the hexie appliqué project, some adhesive thimbles, a few patterns I had my eye on, and some thread for machine quilting. I also bought some impulse things like some cool fabric, a show t-shirt, and some books, too. All in all, it was a great trip! Later in the month, I bought the items to make a witch’s hat from my youngest son’s girlfriend, Katie. It turned out so cute! Overall, I was very intentional with my purchases! Glow: Overall, I was very intentional with my purchases! Grow: I had a mental list of the things I wanted to buy, which didn’t work out great. I forgot a few things! I am going to keep a running list on my phone to help me in the future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605148568-6035UM1NS742UB454EBP/Purchases+from+RNK+Distributing+.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605148659-57ZPMKLNN19PFMX06ZEH/Purchases+from+Cotton+Candy+Fabrics.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605149897-6Q9AIQVXJAI7PUFB4MAR/Purchases+from+Colonial+Needle.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605149751-9EZRRF78VOM0NM5DNMWA/Purchases+from+AQS+Shop.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605150827-712AXO8Z2BQU1TPTSQ9U/Purchase+from+Old+Country+Store.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757605151086-5ZF4JY78S39OPT15TGJJ/AQS+Membership+Goodie+Bag.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871360343-74G0JH4ZZC6VVMWOUWD9/Christmas+house+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 This has been another really great month in my scrap heaven I call my sewing space! Wow, did I get a lot done! First, I finished up my very old Mile-A-Minute Christmas quilt from October 2022. It’s about time, right? What was the hold up, you ask? I wanted to add more blocks, and this was the month to do it! I made 14 more of these wonderful scrap blocks, added the roofs, and stitched them on. YAY! Next, I worked on cutting away the backs of the hexagon blocks to reduce the bulk. I also worked on my leader and ender quilt blocks, made scrappy pumpkin blocks for a tutorial, and finished binding the scrappy Sew Merry quilt! It was a good scrappy month. I may have this goal established. What do you think? Glow: Look at me using scraps! I am pretty pleased with myself. Grow: Continue with the hard work at making this a habit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871361170-RO45BJF1UXK55RT2N33H/Ghost+Sweatshirt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 1/5 I know, I know. This is a little weird. Or cute. I guess it depends on how you look at it. Either way, this is the only outside-of-my-comfort-zone thing that I did this month. I really wasn’t all that brave at all! I got this free template from Quilter’s Candy. If you go to her Instagram, she has posts about it and you can comment and get the free pattern. She does have an actual pattern to use for the quilty part, but I wanted to try some of the leftover cutter quilt pieces I had from when I made these pillow covers. Looking at it now, it probably wasn’t the best choice for this because it really does look like this ghost is wearing a scarf. Sweatshirt fail, perhaps? HA! I purchased the sweatshirt at a thrift shop for .99, however. It was on the clearance rack. The sweatshirt is pilled and stained—perfect for this upcycle! I am thinking about removing this particular ghosty and making a new one from another piece of an old quilt, but for now, it is what it is! Oh! I also made a witch’s hat for my youngest son’s girlfriend’s birthday. I guess that counts, too, right? Glow: I thought outside of the box some, but I still could have tried a few more brave things this month. And no, I still haven’t made that dang shirt! Grow: Get out of your comfort zone, Kris! It is always worth it, even if this one was a bit of a fail. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1759871365833-TZDYWYX80G6S2DCJAW87/pumpkins+and+mums.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: October Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 5/5 Judging from your emails and messages (thank you for reaching out!), I know you know I took a bit of a break over that few weeks. I had some minor health stuff happening, some family stuff, and some good ol’ burnout happening. I am so proud of myself for listening to my body and recognizing these circumstances! I knew I needed a break, which I did. This was the best thing I could do for myself, which is why I am giving myself such a high score. I enjoyed time with my family, went to the local farms to get mums and pumpkins without being rushed, took a few walks, ran errands, did some thrifting, and really recharged. Now I am back, ready to tackle the YouTube holiday season! YAY! Glow: I am super proud of myself for listening to my body and my overall mental state. I am learning and growing. Grow: Five weeks off is a luxury. I have a great job that allows me to do it. I am grateful. I am going to build these breaks into my schedule moving forward. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-trip-around-world-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f1dad141-dd94-4826-a2ee-1e22b690c6ae/Lessons+from+an+Old+Trip+Around+the+World+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925298315-WWZDLJPL5PXBUK8BYKDJ/Trip+around+the+world+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925295220-MYTORKEAAKUXV49P3CN9/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925295262-M5G1891J3RU0KJS7ACHQ/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+3.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925296213-H1C2J9H53ETUWUDAY8PD/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+4.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925296360-XYNJFY63PQCSIQ76VN02/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+5.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925297345-U7PLIM3ZYL6UA2699ZF4/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+6.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757107551957-K1BD29WS9N086ABHIPE6/wave.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757107552005-8C2MQIZ0EI64BEHP22JN/damage.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462515293-9X48PUWQ4GC23QSZLK2Z/side+angle+whole+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462938154-5HBPWIUHX105XCEMAR6P/binding.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462939173-NE2499APFEZJ5W9UIWFF/extra+rows.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462938154-PYZGZW2U994R8FPQXM2T/extra+blocks.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462939179-ORV1U5PLZDT6891AQ1KL/brighter+stains+on+back.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925298297-AAKZHWVSAZVJQYR36110/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+8.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758466191695-20T7HC21PGN3Y3CKCJEH/quilting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757107551957-K1BD29WS9N086ABHIPE6/wave.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Fabrics These fabrics are amazing! I did a lot of research on these fabrics and I think (although I am not sure) that these are from the 1930s-1940s. The bright colors with the mix of the solids and the white quilting thread are some of the clues, as well as the haloing in some of the prints. The black, white, and red plaid seems out of place in this quilt, but it also adds a wonderful distinct boundary in the overall pattern. I am fairly certain this quilt was made of scraps, but it also surprises me that each round is made with the same fabric. I have a few other Trip Around the World quilts where the maker matched the color, but the fabric is different. It always makes me wonder if the amount of fabric needed influenced which “trip” the color landed on. All of the fabric is cotton, and most of the printed fabrics are feedsacks. There is one that is a cotton corduroy fabric. There is a mix of solids and prints in this quilt, adding to its overall design. The solid fabrics give the eye a nice resting place as it is combined with the wonderfully bright busy prints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756925297345-U7PLIM3ZYL6UA2699ZF4/Trip+around+the+world+quilt+6.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Construction Originally, I assumed this quilt was constructed on-point, meaning that the quilt was assembled by making straight rows and then turning them 90 degrees to make the quilt top. I have since learned that it is most likely made by the maker starting in the center and adding rounds. I love this idea even more! This became evident when I was researching this quilt. I wondered what went into the construction, how the maker kept the pattern straight in his or her head, and how it all came together. This led me to find a blog by Tales of Cloth. I fell in love with this beautifully written blog! Now I want to make one of these completely by hand using the EPP method. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/16d16ed9-ac87-44a5-ab34-de40b0b22e10/quilting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Quilting The quilting is all done by hand and is done using tiny stitches in off-white thread. Each square is quilting around their perimeters, although some of the thread lines are broken or missing. The quilting gives a great graphic-like design on the back. There are about seven to eight stitches per inch. Just imagine adding all of those little stitches! So cool! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462515293-9X48PUWQ4GC23QSZLK2Z/side+angle+whole+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Colors I would be remiss (do I use the word remiss in every one of these posts? Yes. Probably. Do I care? Nope) if I didn’t mention the colors! OHHHHHHH, the colors! The greens, the oranges, the pinks, the blues! The bright happy colors is exactly what I need in my life! I love them. All of them. Well, except for some. Why is there a black? Or the drab brown? I know, I know—it is what they had. I get it. But imagine this quilt with all bright fabrics. Would it be as interesting? Would we love it as much? More? Less? Something to think about! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462939173-NE2499APFEZJ5W9UIWFF/extra+rows.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Unusual Size Let’s face it: This quilt is wonky. The average size is 50” x 69”, but this size varies from 48” to 52” wide and 68” to 70”. There are a few extra rows on the top and bottom to, I assume, make this quilt longer. There are also extra squares in these added rows. Considering how I believe it was constructed, it would be easy to make this error. Just imagine being in the middle of making this and remembering where you are at. Sure, the trips would be fairly easy since you could just keep going around until you met the one you started with and then add the next round, but when adding more rows, it would be muddler. Of course, as always, I have no idea what happened here. It is all speculation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462938154-PYZGZW2U994R8FPQXM2T/extra+blocks.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Extra Blocks Along with extra rows, there are also extra blocks added to those extra rows. I am sure this was so easy to do! Imagine contracting this quilt. I know I would be all kinds of messed up, especially if I added extra rows. I also wonder if these rows were added later. This could be the case. I love thinking about how there could be multiple makers of these quilts. I could spend hours (and often do!) daydreaming about their construction, the stories they could tell, and things they have seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757107552005-8C2MQIZ0EI64BEHP22JN/damage.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Batting & Condition This quilt is in good condition with only one ring or “trip’’ showing wear. Not bad for this oldie! The best part is that it can be easily repaired by appliquéing squares over the existing squares. This will help preserve the fabrics and hopefully prevent further damage. The only question now is if I should repair it with brown fabric or something brighter? I am leaning towards brighter. There are also some stains on the back, as discussed in the next section. The upside to these holes is that we can see the batting. This batting is a thin cotton batting. It could have been a bit thicker in its prime but compressed over the years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462939179-ORV1U5PLZDT6891AQ1KL/brighter+stains+on+back.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Backing The backing is a solid muslin fabric that could be feedsacks, just like the bordering or base fabric around the front of the quilt. The backing is pieced in many places. There are also a lot of stains on the back of this quilt. I did attempt to remove the stains with very little luck. These stains are now part of this quilt’s story, and I am okay with that. I mean, when I am nearly 100, I will show some wear and tear, too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1758462938154-5HBPWIUHX105XCEMAR6P/binding.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Trip Around the World Quilt - Binding Oh, the binding! It is amazing! It is a bright bubble gum pink solid fabric that brings this design together. I can’t imagine a better choice for the binding. It pulls all of this together so well. I love that the maker used this binding on this and that the maker used a curved corner instead of a mitered or sharp right-angle corner. It adds a softness to this quilt. If you would like to see other examples of this, check out Barbara Brackman’s blog. So interesting! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/scrappy-pumpkin-quilt-block monthly 0.5 2025-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6824c309-02aa-412c-a1eb-84be38dedc62/Scrappy+pumpkin+quilt+block.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Make it stand out Click HERE to see the video tutorial or click on the image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440739613-2UAKZNXB3JNY3JA5XPSU/finished+block.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f139b2cf-bd9c-4f20-a2c2-6637e72ab511/supply+list.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440738608-OELKZHK1648EJS36SDH3/draw+lines.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 1: Marking Squares Using the (4) 2” squares, draw a diagonal line on the back of each square from one corner to the opposite corner. I use a Sewline air erasable pen, but any marking pen or pencil will do. You may see the line, however. Make sure to use a light pencil mark or a marking tool that will disappear. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440739640-6UNPUNCRRM29DEIFFL4D/Place+corners.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 2: Preparing Corners (Snowballing) Place the squares that were marked in Step 1 on the corners of the body of the pumpkin unit (the 9.5” x 10.5” piece). Make sure they are configured correctly as shown in the image. I like to use a drop of precision piecing glue to hold them in place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440741666-7B2RKGAHZH3VYCF8VCHV/Sewing+corners.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 3: Snowball Corners This is where I always struggle because I can never seem to get snowballing corners to come out correctly. I do a little cheat on this step because of it. Here’s what I do: At the sewing machine, sew just a smidge to the right of the line draw in Step 3. I like to do this to ensure the corners come out correctly, although they can be a bit big (I trim them in Step 5, if necessary). PLEASE NOTE: This doesn’t work for ALL blocks, but it will work for this block. Just your judgement when using this method. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440740814-86B89MG4FA0FF6JD1NWX/press+first.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 4: Cutting Away Background After the diagonal seams are sewn on all four corners, finger press the triangles out to the edge. I like to do this FIRST before cutting away the right portion of the square and the pumpkin block fabric. Make sure the entire corner is covered by the “snowball” triangle. Once you are sure it is covered, press the triangle towards the outside of the block really well. Lift the triangle and trim away the right side, leaving 1/4” seam allowance as described and shown in Step 5. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2b0c25d9-2ee3-4e50-9965-0ab979639201/cut+away.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 5: Cut Away the Extra Once you are sure it is covered, press the triangle out really well. Lift the triangle and trim away the right side, leaving 1/4” seam allowance. Repeat this step on all four corners. There are other ways to do this, however. Over the years there what been a lot of trends that come and go with this method, so use your own judgement. Some people like to leave the base (in this case, the orange piece) and just cut away the extra triangle of the background fabric. Others will leave both. For me, I like cutting away both because I feel like it give a better finish in the end. Another thing some people do is sew a second seam 1/2” away from the first one that was on the drawn line. You can do that, too, and for a lot of blocks you can get get a nice-size HST (half square triangle) from this. For this block, however, the HST would be very small, measuring 1.25” unfinished and .75” finished. That is super tiny. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440742864-TOXQGA9UK6GUQVXQA2RD/trim+anything+hanging+over+2.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 6: Squaring It Up Because of the tip/technique I use discussed in Step 3, sometimes I do have to square up the block at this point. I simply use a ruler and trim off anything that is hanging over as shown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440742003-JD99TTX5CIJABB4UDK5J/Stem+Unit+2.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 7: Sew Stem Unit Once the body of the pumpkin is finished with all four corners snowballed and the excess trimmed, it is time to make the stem unit. To make this unit, sew (1) 2.5” x 4” rectangle one side of the 2.5” square stem fabric using a 1/4” seam allowance. Press towards the dark fabric or press open. Next, sew the remaining (1) 2.5” x 4” rectangle to the other side of the 2.5” square stem fabric using 1/4” seam allowance. Press to the dark fabric or press open. The entire unit should measure 2.5” x 9.5”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440736618-KNPPLD8B5SF9T11QTEE7/adding+stem+to+the+pumpkin+2.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 8: Assemble the Pumpkin Unit Now it is time to sew together the pumpkin unit base and the stem unit. YAY! Simply place the stem unit on the top short side of the pumpkin base with right sides together. Using a 1/4” seam allowance, sew the stem to the top of the pumpkin base. Press towards the stem unit or press seams open. This new unit (the pumpkin base and the stem together should measure 9.5” x 12.5”. We are almost finished! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440736618-FAYG8KB1PNKJYQZTVKZU/Adding+sides.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 9: Adding the Side Rectangles Next, layout the block as shown with the 2” x 12.5” background rectangles on the right and left of the pumpkin unit from Step 8. Place (1) 2” x 12.5” rectangle on top of one side of the pumpkin unit with right sides (printed or pretty sides) together. Using 1/4” seam allowance, sew down the 2” x 12.5” rectangle. Repeat with the other side. Press seams well. The pressing direction doesn’t matter in this step, and depending what you are making, you may have to repress when you are putting the project together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757440738463-LLT6N3DXA2F0DPKTFX75/different+variation.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block - Step 10: It’s Finished! YAY! The scrappy pumpkin block is finished! Isn’t it cute? You can really have some fun with this. Just imagine the possibilities! After all, pumpkins come in all colors, shapes, and sizes! I made a few different color ways. Which is your favorite? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/aa33b2e5-fcc0-4c66-9183-1bb5d7a90906/12+inch+quilt+blocks.jpg Blog - Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-september-update monthly 0.5 2025-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/67b86d1b-7b11-49f3-b11b-3d9f65abce29/September+Habit+Update+%282%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE for the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918610344-JI3GPLPYYN69M9QT7D4E/Sept+Habit+Auction+1.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918611360-TPK9QTCRF37I1CRC4S7S/Sept+Habit+Auction+Pies.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757076813114-W85YVP9L420ZQSC1EE4U/Sept+Habit+Auction+2.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918618592-3F71M7A3XS61BA3WB72J/Sept+Habit+Auction+Quilts.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918612382-0AOFTPT60EDWX4MNGMB0/Sept+Habit+Mitch+and+I.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918612460-TB7H5J0L1GKPUZIQMIG9/Sept+Habit+Layer+Cake.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918613288-L1H7HM0E7P537JHWL34U/Sept+Habit+Gifts+from+Sharon.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757081439589-6GHE53GW22F6QJKVVKRA/tomatoes.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918619533-3WKSCHLDF96DYU9LVLKZ/Sept+Habit+Roasted+Tomatoes.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918616158-QC2LLSY0HL48H8XPFKXB/Sept+Habit+Corn.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918617065-NBCI6IR4VNFODUQ8E1V0/Sept+Habit+Big+roll+of+batting.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918618908-O6MZGA0ED9IDRWAYWM9J/Sept+Habit+Quilts+with+Batting+Cut.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918614219-YABXJLF6RBB5O338JH8J/Sept+Habit+Echo+quilting.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757084679701-20DGMO2DVV6F9HN2MXLY/christmas+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918617521-A466YURMLFY4ZU6JCFHW/Sept+Habit+Azul.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918610318-KK3YHWOZLNJQ8QP41NHW/Sept+Habit+60K.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918615451-N6Y7666QCVUI74YGA2TI/Sept+Habit+Daisy.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918620014-WZD0OEZR19WQ1R4CTIHY/Sept+Habit+Working+on+Hexie+Project.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757084679668-5VZOSK461J8SQL5639FU/backing.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1757084774570-7BM09FR2USI4NXTCBJVO/Mitch+and+I.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a33c6154-28d4-4b6a-a099-0ecb39db078d/Aunt+Amy%E2%80%99s+Bin+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 0/5 Still not doing well with this. Can I give myself a negative score? I find myself piling more and more in there. I think I know why (maybe): I brought up a bin from the basement that is full of fabric from my Aunt Amy. I got this bin after she passed away. It is kind of like a magic bin. Anytime I need a fabric color/texture/whatever that I don’t have in my stash, I seem to find it in this bin. I brought it up to organize it and get onto my shelves, but I haven’t really done that yet. Currently it is sitting right smack in the middle of the No Home Zone area. It has made it hard to even get into my shelves, causes it to look even more clutter-y, and it’s the perfect place to stack stuff. I think it needs to be moved back to the basement and continue to be that allusive magic bin. Will this work? We will find out! Glow: Recognizing what changed, what the problem could be, and removing the bin. Grow: Actually moving the magic bin back to the basement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918618592-3F71M7A3XS61BA3WB72J/Sept+Habit+Auction+Quilts.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 4/5 Someone mentioned in last month’s video that I actually say the goal is Intentional purchases, and they are right! I did buy quite a bit this month, including backings, precuts for videos, marking pencils, and a few other odds and ends, but all of the purchases were necessary and intentional. Well, ALMOST all of them were! I went to an auction with my parents and I did buy two antique quilts. Do I need more antique quilts for my Lessons from an Old Quilt series? No. I have a ton that I haven’t reviewed yet. BUT could I resist these? Also no. Now, to my defense, there were several other quilts I didn’t bid on, so I call that growth! Glow: I am paying attention to this more and more. I am becoming much more intentional, have a plan, and don’t just impulse buy like I used to. Grow: Continue to do this, especially with a few shopping trips and quilt shows coming up. Making a wish list is going to be my saving grace on this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918616489-UHN9EUR9QNXJ70VHT184/Sept+Habit+Christmas+scrap+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 Remember that scrappy Christmas quilt we made during Christmas in July 2025? I not only finished the top, I actually quilted and bound it, too! YAY! I also used fabric I owned for the backing. It is so satisfying to use scraps to make something beautiful, isn’t it? I also finished up all 90 of the hexagon blocks, I worked on my leader and ender project, and so much more. It has been a scrappy productive month, for sure! Glow: Each time I finish a scrap quilt, I am amazed. I think, “Did I really make this beautiful project out of scraps?” Yes. Yes, I did! Grow: I wish I could bottle this feeling and remember it, especially when I am tempted to buy new fabric! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918614219-YABXJLF6RBB5O338JH8J/Sept+Habit+Echo+quilting.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 3/5 The bad news is that I have even started that shirt class that I was so excited about. The good news is that I tried a new quilting technique and I used a thin thread! I usually use a boring old 50 wt. thread. For this project, I expanded to 60 wt. I know, I know—this isn’t the first time I have done this. I also used different weights of thread in the snowflake quilt from last year, but I haven’t since then so I call this a win. I LOVE how this turned out! It was so much fun to echo quilt this. This design is from the book Walk. It was much easier than I thought it would be, and with each line, I was more and more giddy with the results! Glow: Small step in expanding my bravery, but it was still a step! Grow: Continue to do this type of stuff. It is so rewarding! There is nothing wrong with having quilts longarmed (I send them to the longarmer all the time). I am loving this, too! Keep being brave, Kris! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1756918612382-0AOFTPT60EDWX4MNGMB0/Sept+Habit+Mitch+and+I.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: September Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 3/5 Our youngest son, Mitchell, came to visit from Vermont. I cannot begin to tell you how much this fed my soul! It had been seven long months since we were together, and as you may know, it has been a rough year for me. I have had some health issues (Shingles, and yes, I did get the vaccines), some major personal events, and some mental health issues. This visit helped with all of that! Let’s get to the other stuff, however. I JUST started walking and getting in some movement. I am not sure why I was stalled in this area, but I was. I really do feel so much better after a walk, even if the walk is only 15 minutes. I have also said yes to a lot more things. I went to an auction with my parents, went shopping and on other outings, and have been a bit easier on myself lately. If this year had a theme, it would be Slow and Steady. Overall, I still have places for improvement, however, and like always, I am not letting myself off the hook completely. Glow: Again, baby steps (are you noticing a theme?). I am getting there, slowly and steadily. Grow: Keep it up! Baby steps turn into bigger steps over time. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/5-scrappy-sewing-projects monthly 0.5 2025-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a8af9fbe-1bb1-4e76-aab1-b25accf7c20e/How+to+make+Easy+Fabric+Coasters.jpg Blog - FIVE Scrap-Buster Sewing Projects To Make - 1. Coasters Who doesn’t love coasters? These are great for using up scraps! They are also easy and fun to make! I have two coaster-making tutorials. Here they are: Easy Fabric Coasters: Click HERE for the full tutorial Scrappy String-Pieced Coasters: Click HERE for the full tutorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b9f7504f-9aa4-4aba-8329-878c01a746f4/Copy+of+Tissue+Holder+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - FIVE Scrap-Buster Sewing Projects To Make - 2. Pocket Tissue Holder These are so cute, easy, and fun! They make great gifts, too! In this tutorial, I even show how to take this traditional pattern and add a hidden pocket! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/06b9e32b-1e1b-43b5-9cb0-da67f6a7d1a3/Bowl+Cozy+%28Website%29.jpg Blog - FIVE Scrap-Buster Sewing Projects To Make - 3. Bowl Cozy Who doesn’t love these? Bowl cozies are a great way to use up some of those scraps AND have something wonderful, too! You can make holiday-themed ones or everyday ones. These are great as small baskets in your sewing room. Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9f8481b0-7d2f-48f7-a67c-9527df18bdd0/Keyfobs.jpg Blog - FIVE Scrap-Buster Sewing Projects To Make - 4. Lanyards & Keychains This super easy project is another perfect scrappy project! These are just like potato chips—you can make (eat) just one! Come with me as I show you have to make these! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a59cf1fc-ac63-4a8d-adbe-d35ef3dd2a36/Tech+Pillows.jpg Blog - FIVE Scrap-Buster Sewing Projects To Make - 5. Cell Phone Pillow These are great for gifts, for yourself, or even to sew and sell. They are super easy to make, use up scraps, and can be made in a variety of sizes and styles. Who doesn't want a cell phone plop? Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-layer-cake-squares monthly 0.5 2025-08-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c0416c55-4748-4e48-a5c7-9621adbb9e61/One+Layer+Cake+Quilt+with+Squares.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Make it stand out To see the video, click on the photo above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c5c181fd-1375-4146-8b24-57bf2b1f202f/Supply+List+for+One+Layer+Cake+Quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e22e2c2-ad8e-46a5-bc09-ce0feb249b5a/lights+med+and+dark+%281%29.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Step 1: Sort Fabrics into Background Colors Sort the fabric squares into (21) sets of two. I like to make sure that the fabrics in each set are contrasting, which will allow for the pattern to show really well. I started by laying all of the fabric out and then sorting it into background fabrics. I then matched sets that were different backgrounds. Once I had the sets together, I started cutting out the pieces from each block. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fce272df-419a-4536-9bc6-54554a090ea4/cutting+the+block.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Step 2: Cutting the Squares After you have made (21) sets, it is time to cut! From each square, trim off the pinked edge on one side. Next, measure over 4.5” from the cut side and cut a strip that is 4.5” x 10”. After that, turn the 4.5” x 10” rectangle so it is horizontal on the cutting mat. Trim the pinked edge first, and then measure over 4.5” and cut a 4.5” square. Next, measure over 2.5” and cut. Repeat once more. You should have (1) 4.5” square, (2) 2.5” x 4.5” rectangles. Next, take the remaining part of the square (5.5” x 10”). Lay it on your mat horizontally. Trim one of the pinked edges off the short side. From that short cut side, measure over 8.5” and cut. Next, rotate the unit so it is vertical. Measure over 2.5” and cut; repeat. You should have (2) 2.5” x 8.5” rectangles. Repeat with the remaining square in the set. Repeat this process with all remaining sets. Keep the sets together, however. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/83627b7c-02c8-4c2f-833e-1e317838d48a/Block+assembly.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Step 3: Sewing the Blocks Each set of two fabrics will make two blocks, just opposite colors. Once you have laid out both blocks (I suggest doing this because it is easy to get them mixed up), using a 1/4” seam allowance, sew the short rectangles to the right and left sides of the 4.5” square. Press seams open or to the dark fabric. Next, sew the long rectangles to the top and bottom of the center pieces. Press seams open or to the dark fabric. That’s it! The block is finished! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9d5a2a24-1d88-4b51-a2cb-3262f49101b8/Rotate.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Step 4: Laying Out the Blocks When all of the blocks are finished, you will have (42) 8.5” unfinished blocks. On a design board or the floor or table, layout the blocks this way: Six blocks across and seven rows. For ease of construction, rotate every other block. If it is done this way, you do not have to worry about seams matching. I love that! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c5c15193-2f91-49dc-bc3a-ba6f4f43de93/quilt.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Squares! - Finished Quilt Top! YAY! Here’s the finished quilt top! YAY! This one is just the layer cake. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-august-update monthly 0.5 2025-08-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2acdf2a2-01ab-4850-af11-00073e6ba76f/August+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE for the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417125119-2A8WQJUPLJW1GITXOOY8/3+yard+patriotic+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417125119-1BRCBYJQCOTSGXYYKNOZ/3+yard+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/46b19224-e98a-4d03-9687-9a62c2a1c9f4/Sew+Merry+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3396994e-a5df-4427-a530-8f392c4b27d6/USA.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fce7b65f-afbf-44a4-a88f-80b75120cbec/Christmas+banner.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/36ba529f-40fe-4772-bacc-c88a034fa568/Newsletter+the+Quilt+kit+company+%282%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/015777d6-b0d2-48ef-8ec6-e81114aea185/Newsletter+the+Quilt+kit+company+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a267ac51-6bc9-40fa-bb3a-ddfbb0def8ff/Journal+Pen+holder.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9f8481b0-7d2f-48f7-a67c-9527df18bdd0/Keyfobs.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0a9fd30b-e0c6-4adb-ab1c-29b618580d6c/Newsletter+the+Quilt+kit+company.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9536c5ae-63dd-446f-9a86-2dfc9232cdf5/Untitled+design.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1749246795059-I4EETW200EMYW48XDZSX/Habit+Update+June+Knoebels.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417127139-RWXO1TZRYBOYTKPPQMWZ/christmas+package+blocks.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417129168-KB1JQYARMQ65120LBTRA/package+blocks.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417133125-7W6F36QSG0HCEQR5MBGX/that%27s+a+wrap+2+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417127290-IO7VDL9CTU1DXBI79JXB/christmas+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417126038-35PTPJ0N4GHL8NO8AD2V/afghan.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417126319-BBFVEY1G4ZYZ4RSI6YAE/charm+packs.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417130041-T8TE7EU6MQ8I0IKB1Z91/patriotic+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417128196-O2L84NXEXACYO4B5632R/foodtruck+.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417128330-ZBI53GXFSWC7KG370PL4/journal+pockets.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417129259-4M3CDQ2B1H6R74KJXJ13/panel+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417130314-XRRD8IXNIW3FJV669REZ/pjs.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417485893-XX8LE0GLOWZX7I1J3238/pillow.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402322381-UMMA9IH185876UPB77HT/No+Home+zone+May.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 0/5 Okay, okay. This flew completely out of the window with Christmas in July. My space, including the No Home Zone and my cutting table were a mess throughout the last two months. Although I thought I was prepared for the Christmas in July series, I wasn’t as prepared as I needed to be. Whomp, whomp. The entire area was (still is?) a mess. Glow: I am proud of myself for not getting too hung up on this and having it derail all of my efforts. Sigh. It is hard forgiving yourself sometimes! Grow: IF I do another series like this, I am going to have a better plan in place, like I do with the Countdown to Christmas box. Live and learn! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1eb75281-d055-4090-9c2f-71bdf2804d47/guild+yard+sale.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 5/5 I am happy to say I purchased very little since May! YAY! And what I did purchase, I mostly bought used. I bought some supplies to get ready for the Christmas in July event, and 90% of the items I used came from my quilt guild yard sale. During the month of July, I also had a Thirfty Christmas (Day 22) where I showed how I would use my thrifting haul to make holiday gifts. I ended up using the item I purchased to make a few things:holiday coasters from scrap fabric wreath; a snowman pillow (tutorial coming soon!) from two sets of pajamas; scrunchies, and more! I still have items left from this haul to make a lot more items. I also bought some supplies to make a panel quilt for a quilt drive my friend is holding for a friend of hers who died last year from cancer. Since her friend was a veteran, her goal is to collect 50 patriotic quilts to donate to hospice. Glow: YAY at keeping this under control! Although to be fair, I was a bit busy to buy and things did kind of show up. Grow: Continue to keep in mind that I don’t need to buy to make beautiful things. I have plenty of fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/46b19224-e98a-4d03-9687-9a62c2a1c9f4/Sew+Merry+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 I knocked it out of the park with this goal! Woohoo! I made this Sew Merry quilt completely from scraps for the Christmas in July event, I made other small projects like pocket journal pen holders, key fobs, cell phone pillows, coasters, and more. I did work some on the hexagon project, too, but not as much as I would have liked. As for the leaders and enders project, that kind of took a backseat over the past few months. I hope to get back to that soon. Overall, it was a super successful month! Glow: I am reaching for scraps more and more these days! I love that this is becoming a habit. Grow: To continue to look at my scraps first before buying fabric. It is so rewarding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070889144-5ILPS8FFGB3CM8LRYGGB/quilt+full.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 1/5 At first I thought I didn’t do well with this goal at all, but then I got to thinking about it. I was a little brave after all! I started hand quilting this quilt (if you want to see more about this quilt, I did a Lessons from an Old Quilt video and blog on it. You can see that HERE). This has been a big adventure! I have tried a few different ways to do this, including a small hoop, a big hoop, a hoop stand, and in my lap. I have landed on the in-my-lap method since it is less uncomfortable for me. I am still not sure I am doing it right (what is right anyway?), but it is getting quilted and that’s all that matters. It is also nice to snuggle under while I quilt it. Win, win! As for the shirt from May 2025, I still haven’t started it. Yikes! Glow: Look at me figuring out hand quilting! Or am I figuring it out? Time will tell! Grow: Make the dang shirt, Kris. Make the shirt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754417128196-O2L84NXEXACYO4B5632R/foodtruck+.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Habits: August Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 2/5 Well, I can’t say I am exercising much, but I am happier than I was in May and the pain from shingles is so much better. One thing I really focused on while recovering was journaling how I was feeling. This was a simple task of writing down a few notes each day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Because the recovery takes so long, this helped me see how I progressed through the days, weeks, and months. Slowly I realized I was doing more, giving myself more grace, and actually feeling better. Is it completely gone? No. But because I saw the progress along the way, I am confident I will continue to get better. Glow: I am okay with slow and steady. Grow: Continue with the baby step approach to recovery. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-blue-and-white-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8782187d-d276-44d1-99bd-da4167dbaf60/Lessons+from+an+Old+Blue+%26+White+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/933d0951-65d3-4527-9cf4-1077084b9600/quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070885981-6RR573VCV8RF9VN0LZ62/full+with+border.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070881842-FW1931XF9U55VTDGUXRW/applique+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070882753-BXUFWSTFU1D3P13H9NQ7/applique.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070882833-90G3Q4W7SN5AG1R5JLXW/block+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070884888-KF5ZPUJ1D5UYIE0LB24R/corner+stones.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070883838-S3P02UDVDT1FL613X6K0/block+3.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070887172-UDQ5WLCUFWWHKUPBH2Y2/quilt+full+3.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070888047-CWFWO46HH72NDVW5FNZN/some+staining.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/007dbb44-6d69-4d8b-871c-b02f3b862db2/Crossroads+Block.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Quilt Blocks These amazing quilt blocks are 16” square and are made up of multiple units. There is (1) crossroad unit in the center; (4) bar units on the sides; and (4) sixteen-patch units in the corners, giving this wonderful overall pattern. Add to that the pieced sixteen-patch cornerstones and wow! It all comes together! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070889108-30HH4G1SW6JT8VOXC22N/quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Fabrics & Colors This quilt top is made with just two fabrics: a navy fabric with white stars and a what sold fabric. These two fabrics compliment each other so well. Oftentimes, we don’t think about using only two fabrics, but as you can see, it has a stunning effect. What I find really neat is that all of the appliqué pieces are also from the same fabric, even the leaves and flowers. It almost looks like a silhouette or shadows of the flowers and vines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e00c1294-b943-41e7-880f-c5d838b36b30/Sashing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Sashing & Cornerstones The sashing is 4.5” wide (finished) with these tiny 4.5” square corner stones! Each of the little blocks in the cornerstones are a little over 1” square. Amazing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070881842-FW1931XF9U55VTDGUXRW/applique+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Appliquéd Border This amazing turned-needle appliquéd border is meticulously done all by hand. The second owner of this hand-quilted around the flowers. leaves, and vines in an off-white thread. The quilting enhances the appliqué really well. All of the appliqués are made from the same navy fabric that we see in the quilt. Three of the four sides has the appliquéd borders, where the top of the quilt (where the quilt would be tucked over the pillows), does not have a border. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070888047-CWFWO46HH72NDVW5FNZN/some+staining.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Condition This quilt is in excellent condition with only a few stains and spots. There aren’t any tears, holes, etc. After it is finished, I will wash it and treat the stains as best as I can, but honestly, it is so minor and does not take away from the quilt at all. It is hardly noticeable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1754070881836-2VRUEDG67S9ZL05IDUQ4/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Blue & White quilt - Batting & Backing The batting is polyester and has a nice loft to it. I believe the backing is a sheet as it isn’t pieced in any way. As mentioned before, the quilt top is basted and ready for the hand-quilting to be completed. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/journal-pen-holder monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a267ac51-6bc9-40fa-bb3a-ddfbb0def8ff/Journal+Pen+holder.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4aef1b61-e353-4abb-9d10-2308020a3ce7/Bookmark+Supply+list+%282%29.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Make it stand out Add Supply List Here https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1752091213265-WI1XFS81T3CYUT9A74XJ/fusible.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Step 1: Fuse Interfacing Fuse one 2.5” x 8” piece of interfacing onto the back of the front 3” x 8.5” piece of fabric following the manufacturer’s directions. Use a piece of parchment paper to protect your iron. Repeat with the back 3” x 8.5” piece of fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1752091214512-F4X3QCMBPW3HCTXYWTCX/pocket.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Step 2: Making the Pocket Fold the pocket piece in half, wrong sides together, so the short sides are touching. Press to crease. Open up the pocket piece and add the 2.5” x 5.25” piece of interfacing so the one short edge it at the fold. Center the interfacing so there is 1/4” on every side except of the side at the fold. Refold the piece, sandwiching the interfacing inside of the pocket. Press. Optional: Top Stitch 1/8” from the fold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/595f2b73-895f-49bf-a598-f42d2c93e000/baste.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Step 3: Baste Pocket to Front Layer the pocket on top of the right side of the front fabric, lining up the sides and the bottom. Clip together and then baste along the two sides. Make sure to stitch within the 1/4” seam allowance. This is just to hold the pocket in place while assembling the pen holder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1752091213232-Q9O4BPGXR46CPHPLBUXS/elastic.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Step 4: Adding Elastic Next, make the center of the front & pocket unit on the short sides. Starting at one end, center the elastic on to the short side and clip it. Clip the other end of the elastic on the other short side, making sure it is centered. Baste both sides to secure the ends while sewing the unit together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1752091214601-VB7MSKFSKFK3N272UUXN/putting+together.jpg Blog - Journal Pen Holders - Step 5: Assembling & Finishing Place the front, pocket, and elastic unit on a flat surface with the pocket side up. Lay the back piece, right side down, on top of teh front unit. Clip all the way around. Mark a place for turning and sew around the edges using a 1/4” seam allowance, making sure to leave an opening for turning. Next, clip the corners and turn the journal pen holder. Press well. Close the turning opening by stitching closed by hand or machine. Optional: Top stitch around the entire pen holder. Enjoy! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/sew-merry-quilt-block monthly 0.5 2025-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/29e91fb6-4fa2-4288-966d-dc3b06fd59ff/Screenshot+2025-07-02+at+3.14.27%E2%80%AFPM.png Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Make it stand out Click HERE to see the video tutorial or click on the image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1911eadd-9428-4762-9f24-d0b88be663ba/which+one.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2bf28533-6aac-477a-ae3e-1e5840eacdb9/cutting.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Step 1: Cutting Squares After you have collected your scraps, it is time to cut them into 3.5” squares. If you have an AccuQuilt, there is a 3.5” square die you can use to do this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d049adc6-7eed-43ab-9335-77bb86d2e6fd/layout.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Step 2: Laying Out Fabrics Square Layout the block: Row 1: Red, White, Red, Green Row 2: White, Red, Green, Red Row 3: Red, Green, Red, White Row 4: Green, Red, White, Red Sew the squares together and press as indicated. This will allow the rows to nest together. Next, sew the rows of the block together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2be3de54-13bd-4665-9b08-758beabe9a94/Between+Rows.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Step 3: Press Seams Open For the seams between the rows in this block, press the seams open. This will help with ease of construction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/48629d3e-6bec-4f66-a389-81bd5cc27a8e/Layout+of+quilt.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Step 4: Laying Out Quilt Lay this quilt out in a design that you like. Since the blocks are super scrappy, you really can’t go wrong, right? You could also make this quilt with different colors, if you’d like. It is completely up to you! Have some fun with this super each 16-patch block. There are so many variations! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/46b19224-e98a-4d03-9687-9a62c2a1c9f4/Sew+Merry+Quilt.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Step 5: Sewing It All Together! Assemble this in your favorite method. For me, I like making rows and then sewing the rows together. I press the first row to the left, the second to the right, third to the left, etc. Because of the way we pressed the seams in Steps 3 & 4, it will all come together beautifully! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ba5c0d56-7e94-4e27-8c78-13c7715f33c8/Alternative+size.jpg Blog - Sew Merry Scrap Block - Want to Use Precuts? Like I talked about in the video, I made a patriotic quilt using charm packs. Although this is a great way to make this quilt, it does take a lot of charm packs. For this one, I made (12) blocks using (48) white, (48) red, and (96) blue. I used Wilmington Charm Packs. For White: (1) White Out Charm Pack For Red: (1) Ruby Days For Blue: (2) In The Navy Charm Packs I supplemented with (1) All American Charm Pack The block measures 18.5” unfinished and 18” finished. The layout is three blocks across and four blocks down. The quilt top measures 54.5” x 72.5”. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/christmas-in-july-2025 monthly 0.5 2025-10-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/88236165-6d23-4f4a-9ab8-cfde145b47e6/Use+this+Blog+Christmas+in+July.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above for a complete playlist for Christmas in July 2025 (updated daily). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/22529ca8-de4b-4972-a3f4-88ce5fcb8596/So+many+fun+things+coming%21.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 1: Kick Off If you are anything like me, you have had your fair share of holiday stress sewing gifts on a tight deadline. One of the most memorial experiences for me was many years ago when I was making a Christmas gift for my grandmother. I stayed up all night Christmas Eve to finish it. I can’t remember how I was in the morning when she opened it—all I remember is the stress. My goal is to help you get a jumpstart on holiday sewing to help elimiate, or at least lessen, the holiday sewing stress we all experience at one time or another. I hope you will join me in making Christmas (or whatever you celebrate) stress-free and fun! Link to Day 1’s Video https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6253b56d-32d6-4dc5-b4aa-019b0227d4de/Christmas+fabric+%281%29.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 2: Gathering Holiday Fabric Today is all about gathering all of your holiday fabric into one area, shelve, bin, or other container. As I mentioned in the video, I debated having this task so early in the process. Should I do this first or after we make our holiday sewing list? I landed on gathering fabric first. This will allow us to see what we have decided whether we need to buy anything, and give us a chance to clean out our holiday fabric stash. Link to Day 2’s video https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1751486650174-0P27VALYWNBZ10VSRHJU/full+block.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 3: Sew Merry Scrap Quilt This simple sixteen-patch block is so much fun to make! Just by changing the colors, the color placement, or both can change the entire look of this block. It also works so well with all holidays and seasons. Today we will start this project. Just think—if you make a block a day for 20 days, you will have enough blocks for this quilt top! You can even take a few days off. Click HERE for the link to the Sew Merry Blog. Click HERE to watch Day 3’s Video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2ac16e92-f9a4-4e5c-b9ff-fae88c126441/three+yard+quilt.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 4: 3-Yard Quilt Three yard quilts are so much fun to make! They are relatively low cost since they only use three yards of different fabrics. Although there are books full of patterns, you can also get free three-yard patterns like the one I used. You also don’t have to make a quilt. You can make table runners, placemats, whatever you want from these patterns. Click HERE to watch today’s video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fce7b65f-afbf-44a4-a88f-80b75120cbec/Christmas+banner.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 5: Holiday Banner Project In today’s tutorial, I will show you how to make this banner from the leftover blocks from the three-yard quilt from yesterday. This is fun, easy, and so rewarding! If you don’t have extra blocks, that’s okay! Here’s what you will need to make them: (1) 3.5” x 4.5” rectangle, (2) 2” x 3.5” rectangles, (2) 2” x 4.5” rectangles, and (4) 2” squares. To make these banner blocks, you will need (3) leftover blocks, (3) 7” x 8” pieces of batting , (3) 9” x 10” backing/binding fabric, (1) 40” piece of ribbon, and (2) rings (optional). iron-on letters (if you don’t want to use these, you can make your own with this template). Click HERE to watch today’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d84ed702-ff25-4a15-bdc3-3c608f0910e6/make+a+list.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 6: Let’s Make a Plan Now that we have our fabric together, a few projects made, an ongoing scrap project completed, it is time to plan. In this video, I will take you through the steps of making lists (and checking them twice?), setting up a sewing calendar, and offer some other suggestions to make your holiday sewing experience even better. Remember: This is just a plan. You reserve the right to change you plan. That is okay! Need a calendar to help with planning? Here’s a FREE holiday calendar template. Click HERE to today’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ab69499a-bc48-4f42-8bfe-798a406eeeff/shop+smart.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 7: Smart Shopping In today’s Christmas in July 2025’s video, we are talking all about shopping smart this holiday season. Here are my top five tips of making getting the most value for your money: Have a Plan Before You Shop Shop Strategically Buy in Bulk Share Shop with Friends Consider Shopping Second Hand Click HERE for Day 7’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4bfb4f5a-617d-49e8-8ad0-45aff3cd56ce/Q+and+A.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 8: End of Week 1 Q & A In today’s video, I will be answering all of your questions about the projects we have made so far, items in my sewing room, and things ask about me as a question. If you have any questions for our next question and answer session on July 15, please email me at info@sewthedistance.com. Click HERE to today’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1752064173305-PHHWP2YBLYVLB7O65U99/Journal.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 9: Journal Pen Holder There are so much fun to make! I’ll bet you can’t make just one. They take very little time, are easy on the pocketbook, and something anyone would love to receive as a gift. I also have a blog specifically for this project. Click HERE for the Journal Pen Holder blog. Click HERE to watch Day 9’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b058b794-b8e5-498d-9034-312152d7504a/UFOs+%281%29.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 10: UFOs and WIP You have hidden holiday gifts in your sewing room and may not even know it! Today we sort through all of those UFOs (UnFinished Objects) and WIPs (Works in Progress, keeping in mind that they may make great gifts! Make sure to cross reference your holiday lists with your projects. You just never know what you will find that would be the prefect gift for someone on your list. Click HERE to watch Day 10’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a3cacb46-2fe5-410c-83f5-85c194de80ca/Quilt+tops.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 11: Quilt Tops Awww, quilt tops! So many quilt tops! What is we looked at those quilt tops we have and consider that they may make excellent gifts? Or if we reworked them into other projects like tote bags, table toppers, table runners, placements—whatever you can think of! So many wonderful gifts could be hidden right under our noses in our sewing areas. Click HERE to watch Day 11’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/24964950-aeb7-4539-b90b-930e42994cec/quilt+kids.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 12: Kits for the Future Planning to sew handmade gifts this holiday season? Get a head start now by creating simple project kits you can grab and go this fall! In today’s Christmas in July video, I’ll show you how to set yourself up for success with organized bundles of fabric, notions, and patterns—all ready for cozy autumn sewing sessions. These kits make it easier to stay on track and enjoy the process, even when your schedule gets busier later in the year. Click HERE to watch Day 12’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4e7e4bd7-abb6-45b5-9a8b-f13a952f05ae/Favorite+Blocks.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 13: TWO of My Favorite Blocks Today we're going back to basics—with a festive twist! I'm sharing my two favorite easy quilt blocks: the half-square triangle and the four patch. These simple shapes are the true building blocks of quilting and can be used to create endless block designs, from traditional to modern. In this video, I’ll show you how to make them, why I love them, and how they open the door to so many creative possibilities for your Christmas quilts (and beyond). If you’re short on time but want to keep sewing, these two blocks are a perfect place to start! Click HERE for Day 13’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/17c62919-002d-400a-9fcd-23d86c39f8a7/playing+with+blocks%21.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 14: Table Topper Project Today we’re turning our four patch blocks and half-square triangle blocks (from Day 13!) into a cheerful and simple table topper—perfect for adding a handmade touch to your holiday décor. This is a great way to use what you’ve already made and transform your scraps into something both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re decorating your own table or making gifts, this project comes together quickly and adds a warm, scrappy charm to any space. I’ll walk you through layout ideas, piecing tips, and finishing suggestions to make it uniquely yours! Click HERE for Day 14’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2d614779-a0b5-48ba-a3bf-83eafd4aa321/playing+with+blocks%21+%281%29.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 15: Q & A #2 In today's question and answer video, Brendan (my husband) and I will answer all of your questions from the last week, including questions about my sewing space, my organization systems, and so many other topics! Click HERE to watch Day 15’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bb233052-44fb-445a-9cbf-c12e112db35b/preparing+to+sew.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 16: Sewing Day Prep Want to have a cozy, productive day in your sewing room? In this video, I’ll show you how I prepare for a full sewing and quilting day, from cleaning my machine to making my space extra comfy. Whether you're chain piecing quilt blocks or working on a scrappy project, these prep tips will help your day run smoothly and feel like a treat. Click HERE for a FREE PDF Sewing Day Checklist. Click HERE to watch Day 16’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9f8481b0-7d2f-48f7-a67c-9527df18bdd0/Keyfobs.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 17: Small Sewing Project! Keyfob! Day 17 of Christmas in July brings a quick, scrappy sewing project you can whip up in no time—a handmade lanyard or key fob! This fast, functional gift idea is perfect for using up fabric scraps and adding a personal touch to your holiday giving. Head over to today’s video to see the step-by-step tutorial and get inspired to make a few! Click HERE to watch Day 17’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cf9fc757-4ed8-4c43-aa27-c5f865b7bc0a/batch+Sewing.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 18: Batch Sewing Today’s Christmas in July video is all about batch sewing—a time-saving method that’s especially helpful for holiday projects and handmade gifts. I’m sharing my best tips for organizing your steps, keeping momentum, and making your sewing sessions more efficient. If you're sewing in multiples this season, this one’s for you! Click HERE to watch Day 18’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/57d5c289-ad39-4fbe-aed3-4f9b58d33ed1/quilting+fails.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 19: Quilting Fails In today’s Christmas in July video, I’m sharing a few of my quilting fails—projects that didn’t turn out the way I imagined. From fabric combos that clashed to designs that didn’t quite come together, these moments remind me that not every quilt has to be perfect to teach us something. Come have a look and laugh along with me! Click HERE to watch Day 19’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4d497afc-31e3-431f-95c8-98c68793e68a/Thrifty+Christmas+Ideas.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 20: A Thrifty Christmas Today’s Christmas in July video is all about thrifting with a creative eye! I visited a local thrift store to look for affordable items I could transform into holiday gifts and décor. Come along as I share my finds and ideas for turning secondhand goods into handmade magic this season. Click HERE to watch Day 20’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9ef43914-a09e-4d2c-9e30-398641b444b2/Everything+Holiday+Novelty+Fabric+%2B+A+Quilt+Block.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 21: I Spy Christmas Today’s Christmas in July video is full of holiday cheer! I’m sharing how to use novelty Christmas fabrics to create a fun and festive I Spy quilt block—perfect for playful holiday quilts and kid-friendly gifts. If you’ve been saving those cute prints for the “right” project, this might be it! Click HERE to watch Day 21’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/438fd8f9-de14-4b3c-8e6f-57de2c8f7507/Q%26A+3.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 22: Q & A #3 Join my husband and I as we answer all the questions you may have from the previous week! Make sure to submit your questions on Facebook, in the comments on YouTube, or email me at info@sewthedistance.com. Click HERE to watch Day 22’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5504679d-cdaa-462a-b824-eb566cfaa2a9/What+Inspires.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 23: Quilting Inspiration Stuck on what to make for the holidays? You're not alone! Day 23 of my Christmas in July video series is all about finding fresh inspiration for your next festive quilt or handmade gift. In this quick video, I share my go-to places for gathering ideas—plus how to make the most of those holiday magazines, Pinterest boards, and even your scrap bin. It’s a little boost for your creative brain so you can get excited about making again. Click HERE to watch Day 23’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7eaec582-11de-435a-9a8f-cf87826eccd9/panels.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 24: Panel Projects Do you have fabric panels just waiting to be used? In my latest YouTube video, I’m showing you two unique project ideas that go beyond the typical quilt. These simple yet eye-catching makes are perfect for showing off those bold prints and turning them into something truly useful. Catch the video for quick inspiration, helpful tips, and a fresh take on working with panels! Click HERE to watch Day 24’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/16d5b0db-7061-4436-945c-eecf6fa28601/favorite+notion+or+tool.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 25: My Favorite Things! Five months from today is Christmas! YAY! I decided to do something special--show some of my favorite quilting tools, books, notions, and more to give you ideas for YOUR holiday wish list! I hope this help you treat yourself to some wonderful items this year or add some of these to a list for others in your life. Download the Christmas Wish List HERE. Download the Winter Wish List HERE. Download the Letter to Santa HERE. Click HERE to watch Day 25’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a59cf1fc-ac63-4a8d-adbe-d35ef3dd2a36/Tech+Pillows.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 26: Cell Phone Pillow In today's Christmas in July episode, we will be making a cell phone pillow stand. These are great for gifts, for yourself, or even to sew and sell. They are super easy to make, use up scraps, and can be made in a variety of sizes and styles. Who doesn't want a cell phone plop? Click HERE to watch Day 26’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9ac91139-6a57-4687-8172-3e7d2b66eb4c/Easiest+Table+Runner.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 27: Easier Table Runner Ever! Dig out your charm pack and dig into this easy project! In today's video, I will show how to use a charm pack to make the easiest quilted charm pack table runner ever! I take you through picking the fabrics to use from the pack (we will only use 21 of them, so you can actually make TWO table runner from one charm pack); I will talk about fabric value and balance, and give suggestions as to how you can make these for gifts! Click HERE to watch Day 27’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8e1228ad-7ce5-440a-8145-fc498bd50f12/Bringing+it+together.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 28: Now What? Over the past 27 days, we have talking about making holiday gift lists, project lists, and matching them to each other. We discussed batch sewing, planning for a sew day, and shopping smart. We have made ten projects, done some thrifting, and looked at what we already have in our sewing rooms. Now what? How do we pull this all together? In this video, we will have a heart-to-heart and discuss the plan moving forward that will ensure a positive outcome this holiday season! Click HERE to watch Day 28’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d208eea0-d070-45b8-8f46-cc3cc9354141/Q%26A+4.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 29: Q & A #4 This is our last Q&A of this series. Thank you so much for all the love and support you have offered us! All of the questions have been amazing! Click HERE to watch Day 29’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a84fdbce-ef94-4015-90ce-17437364947a/scrappy+coaster+tutorial.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 30: Scrappy Coaster Tutorial Remember when I had you save allll those scraps on Day 3? We assigned a container and everything! Well, today's the day we dig in and play with them! We will be making some scrappy string coasters using the stitch and flip method, or quilt as you go, as it is sometimes called. Join me in conquering all those scraps we accumulated all month! Click HERE to watch Day 30’s video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2fc274b8-41f4-461e-bce5-c02047f970a7/Thank+you.jpg Blog - Christmas in July 2025 - July 31: Wrap Up! Thank you SO much for a wonderful Christmas in July 2025 series! I couldn’t have done it without your love, support, comments, and encouragement! It was so much fun spending each day with you as we plan for the holiday season! Click HERE to watch Day 31’s video. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-half-square-triangle-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b98b4c20-0cbf-4ba6-bdb2-85a296ed7b28/Lesson+from+an+Old+Half+Square+Triangle+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515917098-D76TKL6AGP8SUTWSTY19/full+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515917150-9K2S58HX4MMGKMF55CFL/full+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515918074-SB2CTHB6LNCKWO65AZTZ/hsts.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750522304746-V6AYZNTASXB7JD1ZM2WA/stripes+and+plaids.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515920575-VOFVO4G3YNOH8C0BKH0V/Unexpected+green.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515919470-4WURGKODKP1CRBFIO72B/quilting+2.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515916023-2ZW3QM2GIMD6WZAYQGY5/Double+pink+border.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515914105-BQZL5GEIGJL2LJDQ4937/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515914107-1MWWU307WVJQJLRZJGX8/Binding+3.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515918074-SB2CTHB6LNCKWO65AZTZ/hsts.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Quilt Blocks Except for the borders, this quilt is made up of (100) 7” x 7” half-square triangle blocks. That’s it! The color placement and the overall layout gives it a look of a much more complicated block, doesn’t it? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515917150-9K2S58HX4MMGKMF55CFL/full+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Fabrics & Colors Navy blues, light blues, pinks, maroons, yellows, browns, beiges, and a pop of green (more on that below) make this quilt shine! I just love how the navy blue sets the tone and design for this entire quilt, giving the eye a place to focus while the lighter fabrics give the eye a place to rest. Although this is what we see now, it is important to note that these fabrics have faded over the years. Can you just imagine what this looked like in its prime? Although we will never really know what it looked like, one thing is for sure: The maker had a wonderful sense of design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515920575-VOFVO4G3YNOH8C0BKH0V/Unexpected+green.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Unexpected Green Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515919470-4WURGKODKP1CRBFIO72B/quilting+2.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Quilting This quilt is quilted completely by hand. In the blocks, the quilter used two designs—a diagonal design and a half-square design, as you can see in the photo. This design is used throughout the quilt, with the exception of the border, where we see a quilted rope design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515916023-2ZW3QM2GIMD6WZAYQGY5/Double+pink+border.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Border This border! Oh my goodness! It measures 5.5” wide and goes around the entire quilt. It is this wonderful double pink fabric. So pretty! The maker also quilted a rope design into the border. I love it so much! The pink goes well with the rest of the quilt, too. Although we don’t see this fabric repeated in the half-square triangles, there are other double-pink fabrics included in the body of the quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3ad7cf2c-d448-4d4e-83a7-f1f2ffe28731/stripes+and+plaids.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Strips & Plaids There is a wonderful mix of plaids, strips, dots, florals in this quilt, if it tough to pick a favorite! The maker was detail-oriented, however, as all of the plaid and stripes are going in one direction. In many other scrappy vintage quilts I have in my collection. the maker would use any pieces—even if they aren’t straight—in the quilt they made, which if you think about it, makes sense. Using up even the tiniest scrap is important. However, this maker made sure the fabrics were straight. Why do we think that is? Did the maker have excess? Is there another quilt out there in the world with the scraps left over from this one? I love thinking about this stuff! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515914105-BQZL5GEIGJL2LJDQ4937/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Backing There Oh my goodness! I am obsessed with this backing! The maroon pink has held up so well and has very little signs of wear and tear. Although it is a busy print, we can see the quilting lines well. The backing was pieced together with one seam down the middle. Because of the side of this quilt, this is a lot of yardage! The print is so pretty with the flowers and the dots. It also goes so well with the front of the quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1750515914107-1MWWU307WVJQJLRZJGX8/Binding+3.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Half-Square Triangle Quilt - Binding Binding is usually the first to breakdown in old quilts, which makes sense. Imagine the wear binding gets. This binding looks like it may have been yellow in its prime, but is more beige now. It is breaking down and falling off. It was hand-stitched on as a separate piece of fabric. It is a single-fold binding. The corners are folded in but not mitered. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-may-update monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/306f11b3-95f0-4741-8a19-9b800ac06654/May+Update+Quilting+Habits+%282%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE for the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401170291-0U5F56FP1DM80FSQ7UP4/hand+sewing.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401171199-8GGMTT4L40KYHBOKDEV2/hexie+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744660954589-5HPLCVNFO6SX9EMN6428/rainy+days.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744660955381-8W1UQWTMMVB5J0285ZO7/second+backpack.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744660956138-GZLX9L1JTQ39TFW3RBZ0/vintage+quilts.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401171302-7VTLVO36C91OMOZ9ZYNL/Just+One+Layer+Cake+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401172118-NLCWBEMB6YJLVBGHQCXE/library.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401172864-VFL50CP8ZX4VP5KSUOEC/Mothers+Day+from+M.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401173519-8IWBW6HEGER56LZ9D919/No+Home+zone+May.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401173751-8WGODNB2WG2RBKK7I60S/Quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747401174521-QNTMVZQX0NV1YOQQXG4V/Zipper+Pouch.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402319892-02RUSUKNXK7MEEQLTB2P/baby+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402319946-KPQNBIVP43UEKAI9S9UC/Books.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402320721-EUIFTQJUFWVOBLTAQVBQ/fabric+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402322319-3CFUHI7V2W3COAD2STHE/Mothers+Day+from+M.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402322381-UMMA9IH185876UPB77HT/No+Home+zone+May.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747404714031-O3IYA6HLK560SKITF21V/fall+stuff+at+HL.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402323000-W6GWDL52TU27DC62TL9Q/patterns.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402323173-CSVJIDXN5ZTG7MFW8RJ2/Quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402323761-RURIB3SX7XSZ1RB7WTXT/quilted+fabric.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402323946-HF69O44O0LH8BWJYGQ0Z/Serger.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402324574-J9AGY4RGGIQ4STRR11D0/square+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402324669-41JC39B2AGWA8JJLQXKI/Zipper+Pouch.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747404164648-X44UO1JJWPSS33WXL3JW/shirt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402322381-UMMA9IH185876UPB77HT/No+Home+zone+May.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 0/5 Oof. Remember how confident I was last month? How I even considered changing the goal because I thought I conquered it? Well, it is a new month with new challenges, I suppose! This area because a dumping ground again, and it seemed to just happen without much warning. I noticed it one day while working in my sewing room. Honestly, I was surprised when I looked over and. saw the piles. Needless to say, I will have to continue to work on this habit. Eeek! I think it even worse than before. Glow: I noticed it. I think that is the only glow I have about it. :) Grow: Do not let me guard down on this one! These piles seem to grow more if I don’t reign them in daily. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402320721-EUIFTQJUFWVOBLTAQVBQ/fabric+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 3/5 Here me out on this one: Did I overspend this month? YES. Do I have great excuses? Also yes. HA! So much happened this month and some of it included spending. Let’s start with the yard sales I went to. Wow! So much good stuff! While I didn’t overspend (I think I spent a total of $20), I did buy stuff I didn’t need, thus cluttering up my sewing space and not being very intentional. One of the many things I purchased is this incredible lot of vintage calicos! I got these in a box for $5, along with a bunch of other quilting stuff! Next, I went to an event in Palmerton, PA called The Airing of the Quilts and spent some money. While I did get a few things I needed like items for upcoming videos, tutorials, and even an old quilt for an upcoming Lessons from an Old Quilt video, I also bought a few things that I would consider impulse purchases. You can see a few of those items here. Glow: I was aware of overbuying. I also supposed small businesses and purchased items for videos. Does that count? Grow: Got to events like this with a list. I really should have had a list. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747402324669-41JC39B2AGWA8JJLQXKI/Zipper+Pouch.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 5/5 I am really proud of myself for using up the leftover scraps from a Just One Layer Cake quilt immediately to make these cute zipper pouches. This helps with the environment and helps control my scraps. Win, win! I also pulled from my scraps to make some backings from quilts. I am also continuing to work on my leaders and enders project. Overall, it was a great scrap-usage month! Glow: It is becoming a habit to reach for scraps first before getting online to buy. I love that! Grow: Continue to reach for those scraps! It is satisfying seeing scraps come together into a project. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747404164648-X44UO1JJWPSS33WXL3JW/shirt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 5/5 I did a thing. I purchased a class on making a blouse. Talk about getting out of my comfort zone! I have made clothing before, but it has been about six years since I have really made anything involved. I saw this project come up in a newsletter from The Crafting Gemini. I have taken her classes before and loved them. I decided to jump right in and take another! Although I haven’t started sewing it together yet, I am well on my way. I purchased the kit from her, got my serger serviced and practiced on it, and have my ducks in a row to start! I am hopeful that next month I will have a finished shirt (with buttons) to show. Wish me luck! Glow: Not only did I sign up for a clothing-making class, I also used my serger for the first time in a long time. YAY! Grow: Make the dang shirt, Kris. Make the shirt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1747404714031-O3IYA6HLK560SKITF21V/fall+stuff+at+HL.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: May Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 4/5 It has been a busy month! Although I haven’t been moving intentionally like I wanted to, I am moving a lot this month between attending events, going to yard sales, and even hosting a yard sale with my parents. This required a lot of cleaning out and organizing, which always makes you feel better, right? I wish I could say my bout with shingles is over—it is not—I can say I am feeling better than I was. Improvement is improvement. I will get there! My mental health is improvinig, too. I talked about the capture notebook last month. It has been a game-changer. Overall, I am doing well, but still have a long way to go. I also went to lunch and shopping with my mom (notice the fall stuff is already out at Hobby Lobby!). Glow: Continuing to take steps to feel better. YAY! Grow: Exercise! I need to exercise. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-layer-cake-with-bonus-scrap-version monthly 0.5 2025-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/689d99c7-c629-4c26-805d-c338407528a1/Just+One+Layer+Cake+Quilt+%281%29.png Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Make it stand out To see the video, click on the photo above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/50080ec9-07d1-445c-bbeb-73637cf7882c/Supply+List+One+Layer+Cake+May+2025.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e22e2c2-ad8e-46a5-bc09-ce0feb249b5a/lights+med+and+dark+%281%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 1: Sort Lights, Mediums, and Darks For this project, you will need 25 dark fabric squares and 12 light fabric square. Please note: If you are using a layer cake, that will mean you will have five 10” squares left over. Since the layer cake I am using doesn’t have enough dark fabrics, I use some of the mediums to bring into the stack. I also use the back sides of some fabrics to use as lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/657abb65-f764-4d37-9733-d67a8fafd313/Cut+%283%29+3+x+10+strips..jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 2: Cutting the Dark Fabrics From each of the dark 10” squares, you will cut (3) 3” x 10” strips. Next, you will subcut each strip into (1) 3” square and (1) 3” x 5.5” strip. Keep the sets together for assembling the block. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/04417090-f08c-44c6-8713-d9ff011a0c5a/cutting+lights.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 3: Cutting the Light Fabrics From each of the light 10” squares, you will cut (3) 3” x 10” strips. Next, you will subcut each strip into (3) 3” squares, for a total of (9) 3” squares from each 10” block of fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/eafa6742-0c4f-428f-a0fa-ef7c4c8e8a9f/Screenshot+2025-05-18+at+3.55.59%E2%80%AFPM.png Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 4: Sewing the Blocks It is time to sew the blocks together! YAY! Layout the pieces as shown. Next, sew the rows together. To aid in the construction process, press the seams open. This will allow for variations in the layout. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/48c982a1-b239-42a2-af22-71e281944098/layout+1+%281%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 5: Laying Out the Blocks Now that the blocks are finished, the fun can begin! YAY! As you play with these blocks, you will see that there are endless possibilities! Here is one of the ways to lay this out. This has 36 blocks in it, with six blocks across and six rows. This also has a mix of scrappy blocks and layer cake blocks. Can you tell? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/aa952e14-8fe3-4107-9437-57c0a5ef34dc/layout+2+%281%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Step 5: Laying Out the Blocks (Continued) Simply by turning every other block, you get a look like this! Isn’t it great? I love this, too! It has a wonderful secondary pattern. Love it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/902d7803-62d3-44e2-876b-872633428715/Finished+Quilt+top.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Finished Quilt Top! YAY! Here’s the finished quilt top! YAY! This one is just the layer cake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/207775c4-cecb-482d-8458-b55e6ebba702/Added+blocks.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake - Added Scrappy “Imposter” Blocks I also made blocks from scraps! You can see how I curated the scraps HERE. I simply cut the sizes needed from my scraps and made blocks. I LOVE how this turned out. In fact, I think I like it even more than the original! It adds more variation, in my opinion. What do you think? This quilt has (49) blocks in it and measures 52.5” x 52.5”. You certainly could make it even bigger! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/expanding-your-precuts monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/27d75e7e-be2b-47e7-a750-f2c13ba49a81/Copy+of+Expanding+Precuts.jpg Blog - Expanding Your Precuts - Make it stand out Click on the image to watch the video or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ffeb83e9-f9b4-4eef-b563-a1a27c28a003/fabric.jpg Blog - Expanding Your Precuts - Let’s Do It! To get started, let’s look at the pre-cut we are matching. No fear! We may not have to start with opening the pre-cut. We can look online first to get an idea of the colors and prints in the precut set. Please note: for the purposes of this video and blog, I am going to use a layer cake, but you can use this method with any precut. I promise! One important thing to note is that if you like the precut you are matching, chances are you have those colors in your fabric stash already, because, well, you like those colors. For example, I have the layer cake Folk & Lore by Fancy That Designs. I love these prints! I can also see, just by looking at the color swatch photo online, what colors and prints are included. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-april-update monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6f7cc4b8-7c1a-4620-ab5a-e7953296565a/April+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE for the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048830241-K6L8SUU1KXH2254ZUDL6/totebag.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048829793-MRID5GSQT43EUXLHYFNG/inside+of+backpack.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048830518-YJ03PVL5ZXBFTKNEUFOL/totebag+back.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049228223-5CAL88MVUU3DN4GULOG7/with+9+Patches.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049228199-VSD6OCQU0A9IUQZ0WVGB/with+white.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049228921-6L34OEB6M6IMG2OS70A4/quilt+kit+company.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049228992-N2KGMWU1VVSQ36PRFI60/tula+fabrics.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049229898-JLTEMM5YAYONJA5XDL3H/art+installation+.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049230696-P2PNVN0IULQGWD4ARCMV/black+fabric.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134739880-UA6ZXYIPGDAIGZPXTWZY/Hexies.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134739639-0Z3FYM8LAZOEL4JCMXUV/Hexie+Kit.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134740321-OWDJYMQMBSPCYY1Q4KTB/60+angle+tula+pink.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134740582-SDLXLQAIEE3GL9SD5E44/60+degree+angle+ruler.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134741344-9XYPAGP2NXIX5OOI3BSY/No+home+Zone.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134742884-KQARGBF82XI6HSIU9B7N/Tula+PInk.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744210286922-UHZY2LU6NRTT5KKAHP3K/mesh+zipper+pouches.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134741344-9XYPAGP2NXIX5OOI3BSY/No+home+Zone.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 5/5 I did pretty good again this month in this area—so good, in fact, that I am wondering whether or not to keep this in the goal list. What do you think? Should I bring back in the Featherweight goal from January? Anyway, I did pretty good at keeping this area clear. I had a few hiccups where things spent more time in this area than they should have, but overall, it was a good month. Glow: I am doing it! Who knew? It has been pretty easy—maybe too easy—to keep this clear. Hmmmm…. Grow: Continue the good work at this and think about changing this goal for next month. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049230696-P2PNVN0IULQGWD4ARCMV/black+fabric.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 5/5 I didn’t do a ton of shopping this month, although it was challenging at times. I did buy some more black fabric and that is it for this month. I needed a few more prints to make sure the backgrounds of this bright hexagon quilt that I making were scrappy-looking. I found these on sale at a local quilt shop, and I scooped them up. I cut the rest of the backgrounds and am ready to go! YAY! Glow: Even though it has been tempting to buy fabric and other quilting items, I stuck to what I needed, supported a local quilt shop, and got it on sale, too. Grow: Continue with this progress! This may become increasingly difficult as the new fabric lines are released. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134739880-UA6ZXYIPGDAIGZPXTWZY/Hexies.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 3/5 I am plugging right along with using those scraps and continuing with the hexagon project. I need (90) blocks for a lap-size quilt, and have 28 of them finished. I am not rushing this project, however. I am leisurely appliquéing them while watching television or just relaxing. It is fun seeing this project come together. Glow: Working slowly but surely at paring down the scrap fabric. Grow: Just like last month, I want to make more scrap projects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744148307219-CSHXCQO8HL73OFSQM5K5/Patchwork+Backpack.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 5/5 I really got out of my comfort zone this month. I was actually brave. Really brave, in fact. If you remember this quilt, you know I was taking it apart because it was in rough shape and the green fabric was disintegrating. I took those blocks apart, put a stabilizer on the back of the blocks, sewed them together to make a panel for this backpack. I love how it turned out! The pattern I used is the Izzie Convertible Backpack by Around the Bobbin. Now why was this brave? Wellllll, I was taking a class, and others in the class were using traditional fabric choices. I was also nervous about the bulk, slowing the class down, etc. In fact, I even cut out more than one bag units! But, once I got the class, I decided to go forward with the funky bag. I am so glad I did! I love how this turned out. I was so happy with this that I wrote a blog about the progress. Check that out HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134821921-9BCFRZ1MGOGWB5NS8Y97/60+degree+angle+ruler.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone (Continued) Not only did I step out of my comfort zone with this bag, I also dug into my extensive collection of speciality rulers. I would love to say it was a complete success, but it was not. First, I realized I had the same ruler, meaning I purchased it TWICE. What was I thinking? I struggled to use it, so I went to the 60 degree ruler instead. I found it a bit easier to use. Stay turned for an update on this next month. Glow: I am happy with myself as I push my creativity! Look at all the benefits. Grow: Continue to push myself with more rulers and bravery in my quilting life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1089e616-7eba-4015-a63c-1c51552c8702/Capture+Notebook.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: April Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 2/5 Time for a health update. I have had good days and bad days this month. I have been continuing to pace myself more and be better at listening to my body. I am trying to be patient and allow my body to heal. I am also taking steps to improve my mental health such as spending less time on social media, starting my day with devotions and planning, and getting out of the house more. Glow: Starting to work on my mental health and attitude, which includes integrating routines. Grow: I started walking again and then stopped. I need to start up again. I may get one of those walking pads. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/upcycled-quilt-backpack monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048830241-K6L8SUU1KXH2254ZUDL6/totebag.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048828298-YVC2N4DIQOJJSJO0RM9O/Old+Quilt+Made+the+Backpack.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Where It Began Do you remember the old quilt my parents bought me at a thrift store for $20.00? If not, here’s a picture of it. I also made a Lessons from an Old Quilt video on this one, which you can watch HERE. I also have a blog on this one, which you can see HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048829349-PU91U2H6GVEB14XLDXLZ/old+quilt+really+bad+shape.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Deconstruction Was Necessary It was a mess, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to upcycle it or not. I started by taking apart the quilt as you can see in the video. Unfortunately, the batting used was a blanket. I couldn’t save that. It would literally disintegrate in my hands. The batting was also dry-rotted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744049230467-VEUGXDTM70FU1UMMY9MM/pattern.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - The Pattern & Opportunity Soon after I took it apart, I made a small wall hanging or table mat (I use it for both). I also made a zipper pouch that is shown in the deconstruction video. I ended up with so many blocks left over, and I wasn’t sure what to do with them until I took a class through my quilt guild using this pattern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744134742082-T7JIVF9R9P7VEABKYIJG/Mom%27s+backpack+better+picture.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - My Backup Backpack Plan Now, to be honest, I was a little nervous about making this, especially in a class setting. I assumed (I assumed correctly, by the way) that the other students in the class were going to make backpacks out of traditional or, for lack of a better word, expected fabrics. I also wasn’t sure how my old panels of vintage blocks would behave. I didn’t want to slow down the class, either. Because of ALL of this, I prepped and cut two sets out—one out of the old quilt blocks harvested from this old quilt and one from traditional fabrics. I decided to make the decision at the class. This is the second set I prepped. I am still going to make this backpack. And as you have guessed (why else would I be writing this, right?), I did make the backpack out of the old quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048828342-JXSZ2E7LNMGZHYOJ6IE9/cutting+down+the+blocks.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Time to Prep the Pieces! Needless to say, I decided on the non-traditional antique quilt block, and I am so glad I did! I love how this turned out! My first step was backing all of the blocks with a woven fusible interfacing to stabilize them. Next, I trimmed them down. I didn’t worry about the points—these blocks were wonky anyway—I simply centered the blocks as best as I could and trimmed them. Easy peasy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048829073-R1SCOLDMT328WB5YTKI8/sewed+panel+together.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Making the Panel Pieces After I trimmed them down, I sewed them together in a panel that was large enough for the front and back of the bag per the pattern’s instructions. Once the panels were big enough, I cut the sewn panels down to the correct size for the pattern. Again, I didn’t worry about cutting blocks in half. I kept it low stress. Who really cares if it isn’t perfect? The busyness of these colors and prints somewhat (mostly) hide those mismatched points, right? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048829793-MRID5GSQT43EUXLHYFNG/inside+of+backpack.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Vintage Fabric Lining? Yes, Please! I have come this far, why not continue with the vintage theme? I decided to use a vintage fabric for the lining, too, and picked this wonderful yellow print. I LOVE IT! I also love how the pink zipper stands out in that bright yellow pint. There are a few things I encountered while using the yellow fabric. Because of its age, there is some discoloring and even stains on the fabric. This didn’t bother me, but it is something to be aware of when working with old fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048830241-K6L8SUU1KXH2254ZUDL6/totebag.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - Accent Fabrics Now came the hard decision: What do I use for the bottom front, the handles, and the flap? I knew this where the fabrics would get the most use, so I opted to use a modern fabric. I went all-in with the polkadots to add to the fun. I am still trying to decide if I should have went completely vintage on this one. What do you think? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1744048830518-YJ03PVL5ZXBFTKNEUFOL/totebag+back.jpg Blog - Patchwork to Backpack: A Vintage Quilt Transformation - And the Back! Now I am sold on this process and want to make more fun stuff from vintage blocks, quilt tops, and more. I can’t think of a better way to honor this maker than to make something beautiful out of the blocks from an old tattered quilt. What should I make next? https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-march-update monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2d043f5c-c1fe-4948-90cf-29e618e99e19/March+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE for the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b62a303c-f698-4f42-8367-41c3befe185f/2025+Quilting+Goals.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516240488-6UJ3LK3OE5W0QNN6ZHIA/newsletter+storage+idea.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516241217-K2O79M8HWFOUOPUOMPTQ/fat+quarters.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516329318-DPO2185SYBGYWXYD6SXM/march+update+.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516330629-P4UOC6TKTKS9OKXKB1EY/march+update+hexies+on+backgrounds.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518140392-V0TKLNHRQQ0TIWSUCB4P/march+update+hexies.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516330040-1OMKBTRGMFJB02CLVCE4/march+update+hexies+map.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516331247-XR7CXZ0UFXEI1NUY9U6Z/march+update+sorting+hexies.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516329945-3TZGWFM9WMJK6K9IP4WF/march+update+Hexie+on+black.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516329302-3LI42FDH06HRG6B9BXKL/march+update+containers.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516330784-A4HBC7SJBXK427GZMQ25/march+update+scrap+bags.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516331437-VSH8GQP3AUTHYYVB0EO1/march+update+sorting+scraps.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740516332051-WW18ZEOSQOBSTQTFOHIQ/march+update+sorting+Trim.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518086822-IU4AAIBJIO99DJPGZG3W/march+update+pressing+seams+open.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518441642-38YD8MT89XH6CCRSSMWV/No+Home+Zone+March.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518451557-ZVUQSEYUTUD6A6LIDJTL/fabric%21.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741024146154-ZKICEXR5ZNUQ8SRDPGQO/dwr+quilt+table+runner.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741024146197-6ZYUBG2YSRUOH7EOZ69X/dwr+vintage+quilt.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741800710043-OFL9J4WEO6X57NUEOTE3/Back+to+work.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741800710062-J3YVGM43V7CWPUFUBLRP/daisy+sleeping.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741800711399-ZHE3LAKAPINPVA45EGL1/fabric+from+a+thrifty+notion.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518441642-38YD8MT89XH6CCRSSMWV/No+Home+Zone+March.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 5/5 What a better way to overhaul my No Home Zone than to mostly repurpose the area, right? Loooook how pretty it looks! All those books and magazines! And I moved the brown piece of furniture to another part of the room. I am hopefully that this will help me tame this area some. The real question is whether another area will pop up to be the No Home Zone, which is totally possible knowing how I operate. :) Glow: YESSS! Patting myself on my back for this one! I think it looks great! Could I have mastered this area already? Hmmmm. Time will tell! Grow: Making sure I don’t start piling stuff in this corner or worse yet—start piling stuff in a different area. How about growing by putting stuff away instead of piling it? That’s an idea! :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1741800711399-ZHE3LAKAPINPVA45EGL1/fabric+from+a+thrifty+notion.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 4/5 Because now I can actually SEE all of the fabric I own in each color (shameless video plug: to see my organization video, click HERE), I know I have some gaps in my black and white fabric collection. I have a project that I am working on where I need a variety of black backgrounds, I decided to buy dead stock fabric from A Thrifty Notion instead of buying new. As you can see, I purchased a nice selection, however, while browsing their fabrics, I found this adorable owl print. I just had to have it! This is why I am only getting a 4/5 instead of a 5/5. HA! I certainly didn’t NEED those owls, but come on! How could I resist? Glow: One step, albeit small, towards upcycling. Go me! Grow: Even with buying from places like A Thifty Notion, I have to watch out for impulse items, like adorable owls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518140392-V0TKLNHRQQ0TIWSUCB4P/march+update+hexies.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 3/5 I made small steps to use scraps this month. While organizing everything, I started going through my WIP (Works In Progress) containers. I revisited a hexigon project I started three years ago and decided to rework it. This led to another hexigon project and, well, you know how that goes! Hexigons, however, aren’t very big, and although I am using scraps, I am not using much. Going forward, I really want to work at this more, plan a full scrap quilt or two (or more?) for this year, and donate more of my scrap fabrics to worthy causes. Glow: Since I am now organized and have all of the fabrics together, I can see what I have. This makes it so much easier to use what I have. Grow: Plan more scrap projects and gather and donate scraps—that’s the plan! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518086822-IU4AAIBJIO99DJPGZG3W/march+update+pressing+seams+open.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 4/5 Admittedly, this is a somewhat small accomplishment, but I hate pressing seams open. I am working with a company and had to for the project. I can’t show you the entire project YET, but I need you to know that I had to press 496 (yes, 496 for real) seams open for this project. That really pushed me out of my comfort zone! Yikes! I also can’t say I would like to do it again anytime soon. I am still not sold completely on this idea, but I do understand and see the purpose. Glow: Instead of trying to find a way around it, I stepped up and embraced it. Grow: I still haven’t used those speciality rulers I mentioned last month. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740518451557-ZVUQSEYUTUD6A6LIDJTL/fabric%21.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: March Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 3/5 Finding my new normal with health issues has been tricky for me to balance. At the beginning of the month, I really pushed myself a lot more than I probably should have. Instead, I worked at organizing and spun my wheels a lot this month, unfortunately. Around the last week of February I started taking a closer look at how I can recover. Although it is still a work in progress, I am listening to my body more, moving more in a healthy way (light exercise), and taking time to do other things that I love, like reading. It is a balance, I suppose. I know I will get there! Glow: Recognizing when I was doing too much and pivoting to a better approach. Grow: Continuing to notice when I am overdoing it and continue to keep that balance. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/quilting-for-a-cause monthly 0.5 2025-10-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740761256835-OLY27OA2VXNYX80614ER/Quilting+for+a+Cause.jpg Blog - Quilting (and Sewing) for a Cause - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-double-wedding-ring-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c8f014ac-ffd9-4984-8df5-debd6c3a66fe/Antique+Quilt+Double+Wedding+Ring.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740433541017-J1USDYSOEBQU8RBZMAI1/draped.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Drape Before we chat about anything else, I need to mention the softness of this quilt. It is one of those quilts that you just want to wrap yourself up in and enjoy while reading a good book. It is what quilts should be. The love is felt in this quilt. It’s soft, cozy, and drapes beautifully. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740431955015-5CV7RTIDMQWSI6NE184E/Block+Wedding+Ring+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Quilt Blocks With double wedding ring quilt patterns, blocks isn’t the right word. Units? Arches? Concave and convex pieces? I am really not sure what to call them, but there are a lot of them in this quilt! Let’s start with the center unit that is called the Apple Core shape. There are 72 of these in this quilt. Next, we have the Orange Peel units with the colorful fabric-pieced arches. There are 80 orange peels and 161 arches. Each arch and orange peel units contain 22 scrap fabrics for a grand total of 3,694 hand-pieced pieces in this quilt! This doesn’t include the pieced blocks (see below) or the binding or backing. That is a lot of pieces! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e3d36bb7-0256-4e41-8ed5-9a36b15fed20/Quilting+Double+Wedding+Ring+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Quilting The blank areas inside the block, often referred to as negative space, is the perfect place to add quilting, don’t you think? The makers hand-quilted a sweet flower motif with hearts, leafs, and circles in and around these double wedding ring units. It is exquisitely done, too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9405f926-e22f-4e21-adf0-6a4b2320e4fe/same+fabrics.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Corner Fabrics Adding some consistency to this quilt are the fabrics at the ends of the arch units. The makers used the same fabrics for all of the ends where the arches meet, giving the quilt an anchor. And speaking of anchors, let’s talk about that wonderful yellow and blue fabrics! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c37fe38e-f07e-4c72-a2b2-a52af369db3c/Yellow.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Fabric Color Choices Each end of the arched piece units before the larger corner unit (are you following me here?) are yellow fabrics. Although these are not all the same print, they are all the same yellow. This shows a wonderful contrast between the corner units and the rest of the arches. This picture here shows how vibrant they are, even after all these years. Many have faded, but if you look close enough, you can see the hints of the yellow that was once there. Can you just imagine this right after it was made? It is a stunner now, but WHOA. I am sure it would have stopped traffic in its youth. Adding to this are all the blue fabrics sprinkled around this quilt. Again, it adds a pleasant look to the entire quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740433541807-A9F7T9AS9G7ZV3VV9Y0N/So+tiny%21++%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Tiny Pieces! Look at all those little itty bitty pieces! I had to take a picture with a penny just so you could see how small they are! They are approximately 1” long (tall?) and 1/2” wide. That is tiny! Can you imagine piecing them all? Cutting them all? Keeping track of them all? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740433542387-M11P8O0BP0C8VN1O1AMD/So+tiny%21+.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Measurements Just to give a better idea of just how tiny these pieces are, I added this image. So little and wonderful! I just know I would have lost some on the floor, in my lap, on my clothes. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b8dc6a25-dd79-4cb7-94a0-83a5ac03f1d7/Binding+%282%29.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Binding Keeping with the traditional construction and layout of this double wedding ring quilt is the scalloped binding that follows the arches, peaks, and valleys along the edge of this design. Unfortunately, a lot of the fabric has worn away, but what you can see is yellow. Of course it is yellow! It ties it all together. LOVE this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1740509585718-XEL9ZELX20Q1B3MEHZWA/pieced+apple+core+unit+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Pieced Units We have seen this before, but it is still worth mentioning, right? About five or so of the apple core units are pieced. This, in and of itself, is always cool to see, but there are three things about it that makes it even more interesting: 1.) It is pieced in the dead center, or almost in the dead center. Sometimes makers try to hide it. Not here. They owned it. Love that! 2.) Some of them are stitched with blue thread. Now, I am not complaining at all—in fact, I love it because I can really see those itty bitty stitches, but it is peculiar, isn’t it? 3.) The pieced blocks are all on one end of the quilt. So interesting! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953482917-NFWWYEQFCUE3P5W8QKWP/ohio+star+backing.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Batting and Backing The backing is in two pieces and is pieced together by hand. It appears to be the same fabric as the background of the blocks, but it is hard to know for sure. The batting is 100% cotton and has a lot of wear, of course, which is to be expected due to the age of this quilt. We can see the back of the quilt front because of the wear and breaking down of the batting. I think it helps add to the softness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1bffac67-94eb-4f6d-ae7e-95b4329b6fae/Double+Wedding+Quilt+Damage.jpg Blog - Lessons From An Old Double Wedding Ring Quilt - Damage Although this is an incredible quilt, there is some damage, especially on the edges. As shown here, there is some significant damage. Considering its age, it can be expected, right? I want to repair this one and help it have a. much longer life. Quilts are magical and this deserves to stick around. I can’t wait to wrap myself in this quilt this summer on a crisp evening on my back porch. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/quiltcon-2025-from-afar monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/quilting-fabric-organization monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b2d846a4-dbeb-4134-8e05-62dbaebcf5b3/Fabric+Organization+System.jpg Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to see the video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4a116c6c-0746-43fa-8939-de003bcceb7d/Screenshot+2025-02-15+at+3.19.53%E2%80%AFPM.png Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2e5fa60a-8183-4bd9-b73c-d9cc90e2329c/wrapping+half+yard+cuts.jpg Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Isn’t the fabric gorgeous? It is from The Quilt Kit Company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d4b32be9-670c-439f-a5f0-ebaa473d48d9/IMG_7971.JPG Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/84b7f08b-0808-4761-96d5-8db7ee2078a0/Screenshot+2025-02-15+at+3.23.17%E2%80%AFPM.png Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bf17ba13-5799-4dc1-bec1-8f724eb7c024/big+scraps+%281%29.jpg Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/91a72058-7faf-42e1-930b-210759d5b587/Mesh+bags.jpg Blog - Quilting Fabric Organization: How I Do It - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals-february-update monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8e37b129-236d-425f-8640-dd00cad3d533/February+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image to watch the video for this blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770901637-J04P3TH644W3N42LZWNA/Undecorating+the+tree.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770902283-A6GPPDID0ZRH1GCHAW8W/puzzle.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738771152239-9QDPNZHAXU5PHZLH1JXC/Me+hanging+out.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770900934-BYF745213MS1KXZPGTAM/video.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770901587-Y6IHHLU0VZ0WK2L1IJMY/fabric+organization.png Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770899739-ZYGLUBQS30PABDUJ8AL0/fabric+organization.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770896368-RJB5DP79G191OR4ISYHO/candle+rug.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770895483-RL0S1OCM543I28ISXAG7/candle+rug+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8de927d9-cde9-4716-a494-b65c3b0948f6/no+home+zone+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Goal 1: No Home Zone Score: 2/5 I must admit—I didn’t do well at this at all! In fact, MORE got piled into the No Home Zone. BUT I have a great excuse, I promise! I am currently revamping my fabric storage system, soooooo I needed a holding spot to keep things while I organize. Like my husband says, “You have to crack some eggs to make some omelettes.” This is me cracking some eggs. Glow: Taking action to get my fabric organized—yay! Grow: Maybe I could have done both and found another solution? The important thing is that I don’t let it all sit there, stagnant. I need to get it cleaned up as soon as possible if I want to achieve this goal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/54a27d5e-4f41-4848-ac75-3b94b805d1a8/tutorial+coming+soon.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Goal 2: Being Intentional with Quilting-Related Purchases Score: 5/5 So far, so good on this! I had to order some fabric for an upcoming project (see photo) and I actually ordered it from a small quilt shop on Etsy! YAY! I wanted to make sure I shopped small for this. I also partnered with two American companies are on the small side. One is The Quilt Kit Company. I will be making the Sweet Comfort Quilt Kit in a video coming soon! The other is Splash Fabrics. I am not sure of the parameters of this, but I am sure it will be great! Stay tuned for those videos and more. These were very intentional and aligned with my goals. I also bought some items to organize my scraps (more on this in Goal 3). Glow: YAY! I did it! One month down! Grow: I am going to a few quilt shows coming up this spring. I need to stick to this intentional buying thing and avoid impulse buying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770901587-Y6IHHLU0VZ0WK2L1IJMY/fabric+organization.png Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Score: 3/5 When I looked at the enormous amount of scraps that I have, I was overwhelmed and not sure where to start. Being a very visual person, I decided I needed to see all of the fabric all together and then cull it out. That’s exactly what I am doing. Although I did donate a lot of fabric to my guild as part of a fundraiser, I know I have much more to donate. First, I need to get it in one place and that’s what I have been working on. I gave myself a 3/5 because I really haven’t been paring down my scraps; rather, going through my scraps. I will do better next month. Glow: I analyzed and figured out my hang-up. YAY! It is a start. Grow: I need to actually use, repurpose, or donate scraps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738770895483-RL0S1OCM543I28ISXAG7/candle+rug+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone Score: 3/5 To be fair to myself, it isn’t like I have been doing much quilting at all with the issues with my shoulder (see Goal #5), but I did take a class that I normally wouldn’t take, That counts, right? I did do one thing that was out of my comfort zone, however. I took a wool appliqué class! Although I can honestly say this isn’t really for me, I am glad I tried it. It was also fun to take an in-person class and to do some hand sewing (what I could) with my quilty friends. Glow: I took a wool appliqué class. It was fun, but I also learned it wasn’t really for me, which is good, right? Learning what you don’t want to do opens up space to do what you want to do. :) Grow: I want to start using some of those speciality rulers that I have and never use. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738771152239-9QDPNZHAXU5PHZLH1JXC/Me+hanging+out.jpg Blog - 2025 Habits: February Update - Goal 5: Better Health/More Movement Breaks Score: 5/5 Honestly, I have spent a lot of time on my couch this month with shoulder pain, but I have been taking some time to sew, especially in the last few weeks. When I do, I set a timer and don’t do any one thing for more than 15-20 minutes. I also bought a harness to help with my posture, I have taken intentional movement breaks, have been stretching and working on a little bit of strength training, and all the healthy goodness I need. Glow: I am taking the steps I need to get healthy and stay healthy. Grow: I was walking daily for months, but that has stopped because of the weather and my shoulder pain. I want to start walking regularly again and making sure I am getting some sunshine! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/ohio-star-quilt-block-tutorial monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1572fbb7-721c-4bac-ae3c-0f74ae29b058/Ohio+Star+Quilt+Block+Tutorial.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Make it stand out Click HERE to see the video tutorial or click on the image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fa56e626-7c4f-4f61-9068-98d93aa0271d/Supply+List+Ohio+Star+Block+%283%29.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275056986-K4X1UV97AZI8ZTJAU22Q/sew+lines.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 1: Making Half-Square Triangles Are you thinking, “Wait! I thought we were making hourglass blocks?” The answer is YES! But we are going to start with two-at-a-time half-square triangle blocks. It will all make sense in a minute. :) To make these, gather (2) print 5.5” squares and (2) background 5.5” squares. Place (1) print square right sides together with (1) background square. Repeat with the second set. On the back of the lighter square, draw a diagonal line from the top corner to the opposite bottom corner. We will be sewing 1/4” on each side of the drawn center line. I like to mark these, but you do not have to. Repeat for the second set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ad047263-8b3e-4f32-b2ab-04e00e9a5c73/cutting+hst.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 2a: Finish Half-Square Triangle Blocks Next, set we set our seams by placing the iron on the sewn lines. Trust me here—it really does make all the difference! After we set our seams, we cut on the middle drawn line on both sets, making four half-square triangles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/08197987-d1bd-4101-bbb2-81de3ef16915/four+hsts.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 2b: Press Half-Square Triangles Next, open and press the four half-square triangles to the darker fabric. It doesn’t matter which side is darker (the background or the theme fabric), just make sure to be consistent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275055727-G08LNEDJ1GN9C28F1VEA/making+hourglass.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 3a: Make Hourglass Blocks Gather (2) half-square triangle units completed in Step 2b. With right sides together, place (1) half-square triangle on top of the other with opposite colors together facing each other, as shown, making sure the print or theme fabric is against the background fabric. Since the seams were both pressed in the same side, these blocks should lock or nest into place nicely Make sure they are lined up. Repeat with the second set of half-square triangles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275056369-L0HZSNI4MOBT8GC6UK82/piecing+hourglass.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 3b: Draw Lines and Sew Draw a diagonal line on the back of one set, just like we did in Step 1. Sew ¼” on each side of the drawn line. I like to draw the 1/4” lines on both sides of the middle line, but that is optional. Repeat with the second set of half-square triangles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/71d06183-1eb7-41df-a175-2e1e8ed0aaab/cut+on+line.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 3c: Cut the Hourglass Blocks Apart Once these are sewn, check to make sure they are lined up before cutting them apart. If they are not, use the seam ripper and take them apart and re-sew them. After sewing, set your seams. Next, cut on the middle drawn line on each set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275056411-1MWB603XA48707T3UW4V/pressing+hourglass.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 3d: Press Hourglass Blocks Press the hourglass blocks to one side (it doesn’t matter which side). You will have FOUR hourglass blocks! Now to trim them up! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275057156-CMTE54QPPOIOMMLYE78Q/square+up+hourglass.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 3e: Square The Blocks Up We need to make sure the block measures 4.5” for this block. There are many ways to do this, with my favorite being the Bloc-Loc ruler. However, if you don’t have this, you can use the Trim Lock or even a regular quilting ruler, as shown here. I put a piece of tape on the 45 degree angle, line up the center mark at the 2.25” mark and trim the right side and the top. Next, turn the block, line up the two trim sides on the 4.5” make and trim the final two sides. Repeat for all four of the hourglass blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1738275055754-BN9UQXVAT6Y58AQPYZ6D/layout+block.jpg Blog - Ohio Star Quilt Block Tutorial - Step 4: Finish The Block Layout the block and sew the rows together using a 1/4” seam allowance. Press seams towards the non-pieced blocks. This will allow the rows to nest when we sew them together. Sew all three squares together to make three rows. Next, sew the rows together. Set the seams and press the block well. Trim it up if needed. The block should measure 12.5” square unfinished (not in a quilt but in the block form). https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-ohio-star-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/16e11f6b-df5c-4201-ad14-d54d259bbc2c/Lessons+from+an+antique+ohio+star+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to watch the Lessons from an Old Quilt video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953481998-VIRYKGM64UN3NDAK1N2Y/ohio+star++block.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Quilt Blocks There are a total of 25 Ohio Star quilt blocks in this quilt, with setting squares between them. Each block is approx. 10.5” square (most are very wonky) and each star has the same fabric in it. The fabrics used are mostly bright prints and solids, with the exception of a few blocks that are darker colors. I think this adds to the overall quilt having those “surprises” in there. It adds interest and texture. What do you think? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953482017-5ZESA65S67K3W9UWAETT/ohio+star++pencil+marks.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Quilting The quilting is not exactly small or even, but it is quilted! It goes to show that it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Another cool feature is that you can see the pencil lines where the maker marked the quilt. I just love to see that! The quilting is mostly done in a grid pattern and around the blocks (shadow quilting or echo quilting). All of the quilting is done by hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953485423-8BZOQBO64IMRZ3MRX4ZS/ohio+star+wonky+blocks.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Wonky Blocks I would be remiss if I didn’t talk about the elephant in the room—the wonky blocks! It is true that many of the blocks aren’t what people would call perfect, but isn’t that part of the charm? I love that the maker didn’t give up (haven’t we all been there, ready to give up when things don’t come together perfectly?). Here’s proof that we can still make beautiful quilts with imperfect blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7c0c383c-3185-45a3-b417-43a7b5267cc0/ohio+star++entire+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Colors There is this tip I learned a long time ago from Fons and Porter, I believe. The tip is to always give scrap fabrics a “friend,” meaning always have at least two of print in a scrap quilt. For the most part, the maker did that in this one. There are also a mix of prints (12 blocks) and solids (8 blocks). As always, I love the mix of prints and solids in quilts. Oftentimes, we don’t think to do that in quilts, but it is a wonderful way to add interest and texture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953485226-XOUKPIWJRZ9EYEZSLA9G/ohio+star+pieces+added.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Different Background Fabrics There are few places where the background fabrics are different. I first thought this was from repairs but on further examination, it looks like it is original to the quilt. This makes me wonder if it all looked the same when it was made and the different fabrics aged at different rates, OR it was originally different fabrics (and the maker knew this) and it is what they had. What do you think? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953482917-NFWWYEQFCUE3P5W8QKWP/ohio+star+backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Batting and Backing The backing is all one piece, which tells me it could be a sheet or just a large (very large) cut of cotton fabric. I just love how you can see the quilting on the back of this. It may be one of my favorite features of the old quilts. I can just envision the maker sitting in front of a fire (in my imagination—they could have been on the porch or even at their table or something) with this quilt on their lap (in a frame?) and quilting this, meticulously following the pencil lines. As for the batting, I believe it is a cotton batting, but I am not 100% sure, especially considering it may have been constructed in 1980 (see below). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953483596-R0MXUAQ9JX4XSKIP6ZRG/ohio+star+binding+and+back.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Binding This small floral-print binding on this one is interesting because of the width. On the front, there is 1” of reveal of the binding and on the back, there is 1.5” of reveal. This binding is double fold binding, meaning the actual binding piece, before it was attached, is at least 5.25” wide (1 + 1.5 = 2.5 x 2 = 5” + seam allowance). The quilt is approx. 75” square, so that would mean the binding is about 5.25” x 300” or 25 feet (at least!). It works out to be about 1.5 yards of fabric needed for just the binding. It certainly wasn’t made from scraps. ***Note: standard fabric widths varied then. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1736953484525-9SKD1LVOQH4OHDJO9FB3/ohio+star+initials.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Ohio Star Quilt - Signature? In the bottom corner of the quilt, there is this small mustard-colored embroidered letters/symbol motif. I can’t quite figure out what it is, but my guess is it is the maker’s initials and possibly the year it was made. Could it be 1980? Although the fabrics suggest it is from the 1960s, I am wondering if it was actually made in 1980, or at least put together then. Or could it be a floral? These clues are fascinating! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-favorite-layer-cake-quilts monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/09469048-8861-4160-a03d-761792c67066/one+layer+cake+quilt.jpg Blog - Five Favorite Layer Cake Quilts This is one of my most popular video tutorials! It is also a favorite quilt of mine. This unique way of sewing and cutting the fabric will make this one of your favorites, too! Click HERE or on the image above to watch the video; Click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4e0f5ab2-7a3e-46fb-ac46-ebc4411d6043/Just+one+Layer+cake+blog.jpg Blog - Five Favorite Layer Cake Quilts - Hourglass Quilt Ever wonder how to make an hourglass block from 10” squares? If so, this quilt is for you! It works up so quickly and gives you a wonderful secondary pattern. Click HERE or on the image to watch the video tutorial. Click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/56c42086-b13d-428b-846d-e3fe9f384103/Crazy+Quilt+Just+One+Layer+Cake.jpg Blog - Five Favorite Layer Cake Quilts - Crazy Quilt This is my personal favorite! This was SO much fun to put together! This does use a template set from Creative Grids, but you could easily adapt this into a free-form crazy quilt if you wanted to. Click HERE or on the image to watch the video tutorial. Click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f108e66d-b988-442d-a579-c580e452af92/Blog+Just+One+Layer+Cake+Easy+Four+Patch+Quilt+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - Five Favorite Layer Cake Quilts - Simple Four-Patch Quilt You will LOVE how quick it is to make 4-Patches using the method in this video. Bonus: I have a free downloadable pattern for this one, too! Click HERE or on the image to watch the video tutorial. Click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/88a50168-ad46-4280-8c61-2b63199d3b3a/Layer+Cake+Camping+Quilt+For+Website.jpg Blog - Five Favorite Layer Cake Quilts - Make it stand out Although these projects are all easy and fun, this is the quilt possibly the easiest. I love this quilt because it highlights the fabric. It is perfect for collections that have a lot of those wonderful themed prints. As you can see, I used a camping-themed fabric in this one, but you really can use any fabric line to get a wonderful effect. Click HERE or on the image to watch the video tutorial. Click HERE to read the blog. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/2025-quilting-goals monthly 0.5 2026-01-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/65a7409d-3ecb-42e6-aac7-2283b7881e3d/Thumbnail+Quilting+Habits.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Goals - Make it stand out Check out the video that goes with this blog HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0f2f9b01-9bb5-42d1-8de2-6ae3b4457d5c/No+Home+Zone.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Goals - Goal 1: No Home Zone This habit/goal was completely inspired by last year’s goal of keeping my cutting table clear. I did so well at this in 2024 and am excited to introduce another layer to this—the No Home Zone. What is that, you ask? This is the area in my sewing space where things get dumped. Yep. Dumped. For me, my area is the back corner of my sewing space. I come home from a retreat, a shopping trip, a sew date and things get dumped there with the promise of putting them away later. Later rarely comes. This year I am tackling the No Home Zone! Who is with me? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0e735382-040d-4931-9e44-dacf04b5c7e6/scraps.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Goals - Goal 3: Paring Down My Scraps Sorting, donating, giving them away—any way you look at it, I am drowning in fabric. This could be a good problem to have, right? Yes and no. Have I become addicted to buying fabric? What about using those “pretties” that you don’t want to cut? Am I too open to accepting “free” fabric or bargain fabric? Is this as sustainable as it could be? These questions, and more (hopefully), will be answered in 2025! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a74bdd19-a2d8-4d9a-b162-ec2c7c805eb7/rulers.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Goals - Goal 4: Getting Out of My Quilting Comfort Zone I don’t know about you, but I have so many things I want to try! Why don’t I? Because I am stuck in the same old, same old. This year I want to break out of my comfort zone by trying new things like different weight threads, new techniques, using some of those speciality rulers I have, and simply doing things I wouldn’t normally do. It’s time to mix it up a little and explore new adventures in quilting! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/51c4a0de-d479-4405-8e55-5affb0b7f468/featherweight.jpg Blog - 2025 Quilting Goals - ORIGINAL Goal 5: Use My Featherweight (I Changed This—See Below) Funny story time: About twenty or so years ago, I was telling my parents, who are also avid thrift store and auction fans, that if they ever found a small black sewing machine while on their thrifting adventures, to please let me know. I am looking for a featherweight sewing machine. My mom said, “Wait. I’ll be right back.” She came back with—you guessed it—a featherweight! She had it for years and years, and I never knew! Can you imagine my excitement when she gave it to me? Of course, at the time, I was ready to start sewing with it. I didn’t. Although I have half-heartedly tried to figure it out, I haven’t stuck with it. Why? We are going to (possibly) figure that out this year, and I am going to take you along with me. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2024-recap monthly 0.5 2025-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bac3e88d-4d82-4329-9580-93322ffbdc1c/Copy+of+Jenny%E2%80%99s+Countdown+to+Christmas.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Click on this image to see the recap video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2e9e9f58-3110-4812-a598-35f017baad29/Final+Value.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2024 monthly 0.5 2025-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8fbe27e8-31ec-42e8-8e24-22bb8e91c48b/Copy+of+Copy+of+Thumbnail+2024.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Make it stand out Click on this image to see the latest video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/19182674-2b02-42ae-a6cf-9458b09dffc0/Day+1+Card+Making+Kit+2+%28600+x+600+px%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 1: Jenny’s Scrappy Fabric Card Making Kit This is so cute! With this kit, you can create six greeting cards and six gift card holders. Included in the kit are eight sheets of stencils, six cardboard inserts for making gift card holders, six cards, six envelopes, the directions, and a 17” x 18” square of Sew Light Fusible Interfacing, all in a folder. So cute! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 1. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ad5bc39b-7429-437a-8298-91c15ab0e75c/Day+2+Mini+Iron+Tin+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 2: Mini Iron Tin & Embellishments Isn’t this so cute! This mini tin is full of embellishments! Included are (5) pins, two small boxes of little tiny beads, (13) light bulb charms, (10) mini bells, (16) plastic flat gems, (30) plastic buttons, (6) bows, and (3) Chuck the Duck beads. Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 2. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): Tin ($8.00) + Embellishments ($7.00) = $15.00. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0f64516b-62ba-4a2e-9b37-7771202b8ab1/Day+3+Measuring+Cups+Blog.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 3: Stoneware Ceramic Measure Bowls This sweet nesting measuring cups/bowls are so pretty! They are made in MSQC branding colors and feature quilt blocks on the inside. This set of four included 1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/3 cup, and 1/4 cup sizes. Also, tucked inside the box is a gingerbread recipe! So sweet! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 3. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3401f5a2-7ec3-4c94-bd99-5ef731389820/Day+5+Pattern+and+Panel.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 4: Welcome Home Fabric Panel & Pattern YAYYYYY! I am so thrilled to get fabric this time! I love this!!! The panel has 100 doors printed on it, and each one is different. How cute is that? The pattern gives a few different options for layouts, too. You don’t have to use the Christmas doors either. You could make this for any season or as an every day wall hanging. So cute! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 4. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): Panel $10.00 & Pattern $10.00 = $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b88fbb44-9120-41ae-81a5-4628439159b2/Day+4+Quilt+Hangers.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 5: Wooden Quilt Hangers Aren’t these great? I love them! They are perfect for hanging a quilt, especially if you are going to change out your quilts. You can leave these hangers up and simply change the quilts! The best part is they are safe for your quilts. I love that! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 5. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $14.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ec240028-6355-407c-8424-19d6a01dab86/Day+6+Ruler+Rack.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 6: Wooden Ruler Rack/Clapper This is so clever! I just love this little ruler rack that doubles as a clapper! It even has a place for spools of thread and pins. This will be perfect by my chair when I am hand-stitching. Can’t wait to try this out! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 6. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $25.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/487a62e9-955d-4fa5-8d60-b2a66302f205/Day+7+charm+Pack.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 7: Charm Pack YAY for fabric! I am so excited about this. You know how much I love fabric! This charm pack is called Strawberry Lemonade by Sherri & Chelsi (A Quilting Life) for Moda. These colors are so pretty and bright! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 7. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $12.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bfab0658-e90e-48a0-b5a2-24a7b7a46de6/Day++8+Bag+Making+Stuff.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 8: Hexie Cellphone Clutch & Supplies This is a great kit for Day 8! It includes the pattern Hexie Cellphone Clutch, a clutch frame, hexagon bases, and light-weight fusible interfacing—almost everything you need to make the clutch! This is meant to be used with the fabric from Day 7. I am loving how it turned out! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 8. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $21.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/26f4403e-aa10-4757-a4c5-6975de6895e8/Day+9+Stars.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 9: (2) Paper Star Holiday Lanterns These two stars can be folded up for easy storage. They also included two sets of battery-operated lights to light these up. The stars have shape cut out of them. One has quilt blocks and the other has scissors, Chuck the Duck, and other sewing items. Although they aren’t my cup of tea, they are pretty! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 9. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e1c2eaa3-4a60-4b9b-91d0-1366df6e1b09/Day+10+Scissors.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 10: Small Embroidery Scissors These cute little 3.75” embroidery scissors features the Missouri Star Quilt Company’s mascot Chuck the Duck. The loop handles are his legs. There is a tassel with a small charm on these. So cute! Scissors are always nice to have! Click HERE for a link to the video for Day 10. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $7.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e5db45cc-324a-472d-919b-17b92f341da4/sewing+box.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 11: Sewing Box This sweet little sewing box is perfect to keep you needs in, the scissors from yesterday, or even some small pins and clips. Click HERE for a link to today’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $22.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/415233a8-8451-4223-ac29-76a1a1bcd97a/Embroidery+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 12: Snowflake Embroidery Kit What a great kit! This includes the linen canvas with the snowflake motif printed in white, the pearl cotton, embroidery hoop, frame, and beads to embellish the snowflake. It is the perfect wintertime project! Click HERE for a link to Day 12’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $35.00 (this puts our totals in the black!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a1bfa40e-4f0f-43af-af46-b4037c8498b7/scrubbies.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 13: (2) Mat Scrubbers These are wonderfully practical. :) I usually use a Scrub Daddy to clean my mats, but these are a nice alternative. They each have suction cups on the back, too. Click HERE for a link to Day 13’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $8.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/38ce128d-ae9f-4cf2-996e-3b523ae1d51c/Quilt+Builder+Deck.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 14: Quilt Builder Card Deck These are really great! This set of cards contains 40 blocks, 8 layouts, and other cards on tips and cutting instructions. This is the perfect resource, especially when you are unsure what to make. Love these! Click HERE for a link to Day 14’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $16.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9c51ee31-bd6f-468c-acae-8c37f7c043c4/Ornaments+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 15: (2) Stoneware Ornaments These adorable ornaments are stoneware and are made (according to Jenny) with a wax relief process. Both of the 2 3/4” ornaments are in the MSQC branding colors, with one being turquoise and one being red. On the back of these ornaments it says “Missouri Star Quilt Company.” Click HERE for a link to Day 15’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/747b4052-e9a8-4cef-9755-a032375779e1/Reusable+Bowl+Hugger.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 16: Splash Laminate Reusable Bowl Hugger Pattern & Kit Included in today’s item is a piece (13” x 27”) of Splash Laminate fabric, a reusable bowl hugger pattern, and elastic. The pattern comes together quickly and is fun to make, too! I also washed and dried a chunk of the fabric. It came out perfect. Click HERE for a link to Day 16’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $16.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fa98028b-214e-40f7-bd9b-f47a86057124/Add+to+Blog+on+17th.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 17: “Jenny” Button & (6) Stickers This one made me laugh so hard! I just love it! When you press this button, you will hear Jenny’s voice giving us quilting advice. This item also came with six really cute stickers. This was a fun one! Click HERE for a link to Day 17’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $10.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cc6bb028-302e-4151-be75-7f93df349866/IMG_7235.JPG Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 18: (42) 5” Square Pack Ohhhhh, you know I love fabric! This charm pack, (or stacker) is called Bellissimo by My Mind’s Eye for Riley Blake. This is a special edition called “Pillow Pack”. This may just be a clue for tomorrow’s item! Click HERE for a link to Day 18’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $12.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9888b1d5-541c-4aa5-a85e-e192cafefcf5/Pattern+and+Chenille.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 19: Chenille Star Pillow Pattern & Chenille This pattern is to be used with the charm pack we got yesterday. It makes a 20” x 20” pillow and the chenille is used as embellishments. It turned out so cute! It got me out of my comfort zone. I don’t think I would have ever used this product without this project. Click HERE for a link to Day 19’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $13.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d5d6557a-b8ad-4fba-abcf-410b6cc29eb7/Sewing+machine+Brick+set.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 20: Sewing Machine Brick Building Set This little set is fun and fairly easy to put together. It can be used as a knick-knack or an ornament with two different top unit options. It is approx. 3.75” long, 4” tall, and 2” wide. What a fun unexpected item! Click HERE for a link to Day 20’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $7.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/74c7a92b-93fd-46a8-9d4b-83a7dc0ece41/gnome.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 21: Felted Wool Gnome Pin Cushion This little guess is handmade in a village in Nepal. How cool is that! He is made of felted wool, has a weighted bottom, and stands approx. 4.5” tall. This item earns me the “You’re a Jerk, Kris” award because I didn’t love him. Now that I know more about him, he is growing on me. Click HERE for a link to Day 21’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/735c720d-8d52-4b55-94a4-edba5bb20844/Felt+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 22: Monogram Accessories Felt Kit This kit comes with a large sheet of felt, a pattern, two small leather squares by Hometown Leatherworks, stencils, and a marking pen (mine was broken). The instructions say to use the leftover pearl cotton from Day 12’s project. Click HERE for a link to Day 22’s video. Estimated Value (My Opinion Only!): $12.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7ddfce55-484e-497a-8f32-67c8edf4b02e/Mug.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 23: Stoneware Wax Relief Mug We all knew it was coming, didn’t we? We got another mug! These are so pretty. This is the third year we received a mug. This one says Love in Every Stitch on one side and has a quilt block on the other. It is stoneware with wax-relief designs. Click HERE for a link to Day 23’s video. Estimated Value (from MSQC website): $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ea222b56-c8b0-4524-a890-4afdc2248498/patterns.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 24: (4) Patterns Today’s item is four patterns. Each pattern is for an oversized block that are also represented on the plates from last year, the mugs, and the measuring bowls. Each block is 18” x 18” square finished. In the patterns, there are directions for six different projects. If you want the actual colors shown in the patterns, the information of the colors used are on the back of each pattern. Click HERE for a link to Day 24’s video. Estimated Value: $10.00 each = $40.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6013f7f8-87a9-4e77-bc1c-9bd719f7dd45/portfolio.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Day 25: Cutting and Pressing Mat Travel Folio This is such a great item and a wonderful way to end this series. This folio opens up to a cutting mat on one side and a pressing mat on the other. The closure is a velcro. It is 12” x 12”. The MSQC logo is on the circle closure. Click HERE for a link to Day 25’s video. Estimated Value: $10.00 (I had MAJOR issues with this product.) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d6ce5c1b-9a7a-4f6f-b407-e7395f33e16e/Final+Value+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2024 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-novemeber-update monthly 0.5 2025-01-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d5906af7-d8e0-46e4-b2ab-311fb13c7c0b/November+Update.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above for the video on this or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301916197-QR92XOPBCTQWMZOJO0UH/Daisy+with+Pumpkins.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301916236-FOO6Q381TCOWR8X22X61/Pumpkins.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301916954-XYM7E6GKI1AY2HYWVJLP/Wonky+Log+cabin+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301481383-OIYPKXAXV72NPXU9MKSG/Untitled+design+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730302072582-V79TJHIPP3DTSE2R51Q4/Countdown+to+Christmas.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730302073353-M8EGXOLWGRM8YCGYGP1R/Shop+Hop.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730302072582-QZP9NQUN2UFSHHW3S8WH/table+redo+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730302073158-S7L4JV1TIYDARANW90C4/table+redo.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301917539-ZQ5KEEQOYFY2PV7DOU66/Jelly+Roll.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301916819-GECTSXJR0B632EBU3E5M/Scrap+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301918818-0LIRXBD04W1CFZL31Y8C/IMG_6993.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301918402-2S2CUN8GJHIDRARHOXM9/Book.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303844457-97PWK5P9XSC2QNC48T7S/table+runner+all.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303844675-GYE0JVXRKWGWTDFETZC1/table+runner+blue.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845181-3A4PYH1AOR9MK10VBD57/table+runner+christmas+green.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845412-HJAX6WCYEB56DGTYKXRY/table+runner+christmas+multi.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845950-YWDLST6IAO6NVXSOEJKP/table+runner+christmas+red.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303846256-3S1UPQP61C5J1UVL742K/table+runner+halloween.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303846973-CLGAOOMLNCYKGA098NG5/table+runner+purple.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730663432226-HVV8I3GDFFX1B9A0GNZS/table+runner+christmas+green+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1732977995790-C5Q8KHNOZKS4OGDLRCTE/tree.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1732977995757-86T5B0GNORK4HGT2503B/shelves.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1732977996479-XM5SNARVE9M1EO9KJKRS/shelves+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9c8e3c17-b70f-4c5e-ad7e-f1cbf8f1ab29/snowflake+final.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1732980115529-A4RX9TXTHDJVMYIBJAY3/hat.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727883328002-FJDXC8WPX7YZVH1UXRE6/new+cutting+mat.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 5/5 I think this habit is finally solidified in my brain. That’s great news, right? Although I am still cautious about the holiday season, I am also feeling like I have this in the bag. Because I have done a great job at this, I have plans for another trouble area in my sewing space. I will talk about that more in my 2025 goals! Stay turned for that! Glow: YES! I call this a victory! Grow: Keep this up during December! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303844457-97PWK5P9XSC2QNC48T7S/table+runner+all.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update - Habit 2: Finishing Projects This Month’s Score: 5/5 Oh, I think I nailed this one, too! YAY! Let’s see where we are: this month I made FIVE table runners and one placemat. I also finished two quilt tops: the wonky log cabin one and the pumpkins (the pumpkins took me two years to complete, by the way. Two. Years.). I also made a quilt top in a guild workshop (more on this in Goal 5) and I made a quilted Santa hat. Although I still have many projects to work on and complete, I did do a great job making a dent in some! If you are interested in the tutorial for the table runners, click HERE for a link to the video and HERE for the link to the blog. I also did a video diary and blog for the snowflake quilt. Click HERE for the video and HERE for the blog. Glow: Finished THREE quilt tops! THREE! And a bunch of table runners and other small projects. YAY, me! Grow: Maybe pull out one or two of those OTHER quilt tops in your cabinet. :) Let’s get those quilts finished! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730301916819-GECTSXJR0B632EBU3E5M/Scrap+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: November Update - Habit 5: Further Embrace My Quilting Community This Month’s Score: 5/5 This month, I helped out at a local quilt shop, helping them get ready for their annual shop hop event, and I also went to a scrap fabric workshop. So much fun! The teacher at the workshop was Janellea Macbeth, creator of the Scrapstashic system and author of the book Scrapstashic Quilts: Organizing your Scrap Fabric Stash and ACTUALLY Using It. Glow: Two wonderful events! Grow: I am taking an online class, but it isn’t a quilting class. Hmmm. Does that count? https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/5-christmas-projects-to-make monthly 0.5 2025-11-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c094eb83-0046-49c3-8ab0-97c5f3629558/Jelly+Roll+Table+Runner+%281%29.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make - 1. Jelly Roll Table Runner Project This is a fun one and oh-so-easy! It is perfect for using up those left over jelly roll strips or even using scraps. It makes a great housewarming gift, too. Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845950-YWDLST6IAO6NVXSOEJKP/table+runner+christmas+red.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845181-3A4PYH1AOR9MK10VBD57/table+runner+christmas+green.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303844675-GYE0JVXRKWGWTDFETZC1/table+runner+blue.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730303845412-HJAX6WCYEB56DGTYKXRY/table+runner+christmas+multi.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/534de2e7-ee2a-4c56-9104-c09d431bf6ce/reusable+gift+bags+thumbnail.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make - 2. Reusable Gift Bag Cute, fun, and friendly to the environment—what could be better? This gift bag is the perfect project to make if you need a Secret Santa gift, want a housewarming gift, or just want to make one for your general gift-giving needs. Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/06b9e32b-1e1b-43b5-9cb0-da67f6a7d1a3/Bowl+Cozy+%28Website%29.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make - 3. Bowl Cozy Who doesn’t love these? Bowl cozies make the best gifts! You can make holiday-themed ones or everyday ones. Perfect to match someone’s decor, too! These are great as small baskets in your sewing room. Just sayin’. Click HERE to watch the video tutorial and click HERE to read the blog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d566c032-b7cf-4147-aafc-2c69343bfcd5/Gift+block+pillow.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make - 4. Holiday Pillow Not only do I have a video tutorial on this project, I also have a free pattern for this pillow. AND I have a full pattern featuring this block in my shop. This is a fun one, too! I hope you give it a try! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/de7316b7-8206-4e64-a207-6693cb1edfe0/Ornament.jpg Blog - FIVE Quilty Christmas Projects To Make - 5. Hexagon Ornaments Aren’t these CUTE? I just love them! I made up this pattern a few years ago and have a tutorial on how to make them. They are perfect to make with those adorable holiday novelty prints. So cute! Click HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/snowflake-quilt-the-journey monthly 0.5 2024-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/92df04b1-b5d4-41ff-a669-fad012ab4a8b/100+Day+Quilt.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993177-K54WVXRMHA3FBHX54B76/snowflake++top.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669807020-YZNM0URP0FL0QW8FBRRE/snowflake++pressing+front.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993177-S6ZI5VV0Q2IJTZH7M3QF/snowflake+accuquilt.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669807537-NVMK54183SBKPR5MFO7T/snowflake++pressing.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993756-PWL0KNX0I8H1NWR8YBYC/snowflake+binding.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993900-BRPX3P70S0AVBH1XTXWY/snowflake+final.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669994368-XXAQDAX9JFOVM4UIB5VW/snowflake+part+design+wall+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669994749-3TQKG4ADAEUBSS0PU7EY/snowflake+part+design+wall.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669995003-SK6DHW0EYWW3ZHM168O0/snowflake+part+done.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670160838-GMJSPWS3B61HPHBCW0YC/snowflake+pieces.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670160836-642DYG0L2DDHWWF3YD97/Snowflake+quilt+fabrics.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670161564-8K76MC3KBSBKXNC2ZEDK/snowflake+quilting+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670161742-HA65VVTW1V4DXSXH0JD1/snowflake+quilting+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670162391-OYJDFE6WQ0CME4VVRR3V/snowflake+quilting+other+colors+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670162449-TPOKQ88GLQ1IEWTBTMMT/snowflake+quilting+other+colors+3.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670291626-QT33EC6OWS6Y0PPU7ONV/snowflake+quilting+other+colors.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670291415-NQ9IJQJTBM8IC8CGDCW0/snowflake+quilting+wow+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292026-G79VHYUGPR723PNY6NHS/snowflake+quilting+wow.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292337-5OILI0YLXKCDZI55NXX1/snowflake+sandwiching+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292763-XRBE8U7CU93E6LWH1T19/snowflake+sandwiching+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670293162-R29S09VK5J00Y9AJT07S/snowflake+sandwiching+3.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670293338-JGUYLZKSJUEEVRI95YJ8/snowflake+sandwiching.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670293886-85G287D63WM3IF2A3KFS/snowflake+wavy+lines.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6af77ac4-cc39-427e-932e-3719fe1410bc/Snowflake+Fabrics+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Picking The Fabric June 17, 2024: Day 1 After A LOT of thought, I decided to make the quilt with a navy blue background, and the snowflake out of light blues (I later change my mind about the light blues and went with a white. More on that later). Although I had a lot of blue fabrics, I felt like I didn’t have the variety I needed. That’s where my friend Gail helped out. Being a lover of all blue fabrics, she gave me a stack to include in the quilt. Fallon from Sew Be It Quilts is also doing this collaboration with Michelle from The Simple Quilter. Fallon and I decided to exchange fabric. I made up a bundle for her and she made up a bundle for me. Off in the mail it went! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f24a39d1-80de-4f93-9a4c-01cb09924a78/snowflake+final+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Happy Mail! July 1, 2024, Day 15 The box of fabric from Fallon arrived! YAY! The fabrics are so pretty! Why are other people’s fabric so much more appealing than our own? That is a question to ponder! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670160836-642DYG0L2DDHWWF3YD97/Snowflake+quilt+fabrics.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Cutting and Prepping! July 6, 2024, Day 20 After sorting through a lot of white on white fabric, I decided to make the snowflake out of the one fabric. When I am making scrap quilts, having everything scrappy can be fun, but for my own sanity, it can also be a bit much. It was a bit much for this project. I needed some kind of consistency, and one fabric for the snowflake was the key. I also used this project as leaders and enders (coined by the great Bonnie Hunter). This is the perfect project for this! This should make the quilt components come together quilting, too. Woohoo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670160838-GMJSPWS3B61HPHBCW0YC/snowflake+pieces.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Ready to Sew July 9, 2024, Day 23 All of the pieces are cut and the coloring sheets are made. Woohoo! I am well on my way! Now to sew and sew and sew. May the piece be with me (get it? ). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669995003-SK6DHW0EYWW3ZHM168O0/snowflake+part+done.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Making Progress Aug. 1, 2024, Day 46 There are 20 blocks in all to make, and I have finished 16! Woohoo! That is the good news. Ready for the bad news? There are some fabrics in the blocks that I just don’t like. Well, I like the fabrics, but I don’t like them in this quilt. I am going to wait to see if I like them once they are all together on the design wall. We will see! I made another mistake. I shouldn’t have cut all the white fabric into squares. The directions show how to not do this. What was I thinking? Hmmmm. I am also starting to think about the finishing of this quilt. Longarm? Cuddle fabric? Cotton fabric? Scrappy backing? It is starting to get real. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7b5bbcff-e6f0-4b4a-929c-c7d75097bbae/circles.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Decisions, Decisions! Aug. 21, 2024, Day 66 The blocks are all finished! I did end up taking out those few blocks that didn’t quite go together. Whomp, whomp. But I do like it more now! YAY! Because of the size, I had to hang a piece of batting on a wall in my basement and layout the blocks there. I am thrilled with how it looks! I started to sew the rows together. Two rows are finished. I am running into some issues with the way the seams are pressed and wish I would have paid more attention to this as I constructed it. I should have either opened the seams or had a system in place. Oh well—live and learn. I had so much fun making this one! I am sure I will make another. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993177-K54WVXRMHA3FBHX54B76/snowflake++top.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Quilt Top Finished! Sept. 4, 2024, Day 80 THE QUILT IS TOGETHER! YAYYYYY! Today is the day I ordered the backing. I went with a pretty snowflake print. Because my dog needed surgery, I decided to save some money and quilt this one myself. Now to decide on a pattern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669806375-0W5C81HL660BGERP6S9E/backing+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - The Backing Sept. 5, 2024, Day 81 Isn’t this gorgeous? This fabric is 108” wide and is called Crystal Frost by Henry Glass. It is perfect for this quilt, don’t you think? I am loving the shades of blue, the snowflake motifs, and, of course, the size. No piecing! Perfect! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292763-XRBE8U7CU93E6LWH1T19/snowflake+sandwiching+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Let’s Sandwich the Quilt Sept. 21, 2024, Day 97 Time to baste! After pressing the fabric really well, I start the basting process by clamping and taping down the backing fabric, right side (or pretty side) facing down. Since the quilt is larger than the table I am using, I do this in sections. Some say to start in the middle, but I don’t do that. I usually start on a corner and adjust to the next section. The ultimate goal is to get it as flat as possible without puckers. This works well for me. The backing is at least 4” bigger on all sides. Since this quilt measures 60” x 72”, my backing needed to be 68” x 80” (four inches on each side). This will allow for shifting during the quilting process and is especially important if you are having your quilt longarmed. Make sure to check with your longarmer, however. They may require more overage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4db4a7c0-21cf-42e5-82b5-3edbc8fd5f7b/snowflake+batting.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Preparing to Baste Sept. 21, 2024, Day 97 (Continued) There are so many different ways to prepare batting for a quilt and none of these are right or wrong (pinky promise!). If the batting is wrinkled at all, I like to toss it in the dryer on low for about ten minutes to get the wrinkles out. For this project, however, I am using batting that is on a roll, so it was already good and flat. I cut my batting to be about four inches bigger than the quilt top. Personally, I like seeing the backing and the batting to help ensure it is all lined up. After the backing section is secure, I layer the batting on top of the backing with the batting front facing up. If you are unsure of which side is the batting front, read the package. Batting usually stays in place pretty well, so I do not tape it, but I float it on top of the backing. It will get clamped in the next step. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292337-5OILI0YLXKCDZI55NXX1/snowflake+sandwiching+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Ready to Baste Sept. 21, 2024, Day 97 (Continued) After pressing the quilt top really well and clipping any loose threads, I place the wrong side of the quilt top down on the batting and clamp it do secure it in place before pin basting it. I like to smooth out all of these pesky wrinkles. Now it is time to baste! If you are using a basting spray, simply spray it in sections, taking your time to make sure each area is smooth. If you are using pins like me, work systematically in areas to pin it down. I like to pin a hand’s width apart. It is tedious but worth it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7ff86ccd-5e04-4d5c-bffd-f152405f7d87/snowflake+quilitng+sample.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Sample Block Sept. 22, 2024, Day 98It is time to quilt, but first, a sample block. When I am making a quilt, I love to make a sample block. One way to use that sample block is to practice your quilting for that project. This gives me a chance to test threads, designs, and determine the distance and method for the quilting process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670161564-8K76MC3KBSBKXNC2ZEDK/snowflake+quilting+%281%29.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Let’s Quilt! Sept. 22, 2024, Day 98 (Continued) Once I decided on a design (waves), I got to quilting! Using my walking foot for this one, I start by quilting lines about every three-four inches to secure the quilt and then fill in with other lines along the way. I didn’t measure or anything like that because I wanted organic waves in this project. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670162391-OYJDFE6WQ0CME4VVRR3V/snowflake+quilting+other+colors+2.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Pink or No Pink? Sept. 22, 2024, Day 98 (Continued) Even though I did make a sample, I decided to try out some different color threads. I thought pink and purple would really highlight the quilt. Although it does look nice, I changed my mind and stuck with the light blue and some pops of silver metallic thread to give it sparkle, like glistening snow. I love how it turned out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670293886-85G287D63WM3IF2A3KFS/snowflake+wavy+lines.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Making Waves Sept. 22, 2024, Day 98 (Continued) This quilting design is perfect for this project! It gives those hard edges of all the blocks and half square triangles a softness that looks like wind to me. I also love the touches of silver. This is one of my favorite projects of all time! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730670292026-G79VHYUGPR723PNY6NHS/snowflake+quilting+wow.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Quilted Complete Sept. 22, 2024, Day 98 (Continued) Just look at that wonderful texture! OHHHH, my goodness! I want to make another and another and another! This was a fun one! Time to trim it up and bind it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1730669993756-PWL0KNX0I8H1NWR8YBYC/snowflake+binding.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - Time to Bind Sept 23, 2024, Day 99 It is time to bind this quilt, but with which fabric? I love the idea of using what I have, especially considering the entire quilt top is scrappy, so I pulled these two fabrics from my stash. I love the snowmen because of the silver sparkle in it, but I don’t love how light it is or the green scarves on the snowmen. I decided to go with the one on the bottom of the picture. It blends nicely with the blue scrappy fabric on the front and isn’t too dark or too light in color. It compliments it nicely! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9c8e3c17-b70f-4c5e-ad7e-f1cbf8f1ab29/snowflake+final.jpg Blog - Snowflake Quilt: The Journey - It’s Finished! All that is left is the label! YAY! I can’t wait to snuggle under this quilt this winter! Let me know if you have any questions about this one! Happy Quilting! Kris https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-antique-embroider-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-01-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b0f83d32-4283-4d54-9ad5-86bffb9cb9aa/Lessson+from+an+old+embroidered+quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/50eaf8a3-87a9-4dd1-b565-d3aa7c1d1df6/Flower+5.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Embroidered Blocks The center of the blocks are embroidered with orange thread. The maker then added triangles on the sides, making a square in a square block and giving it the look of being on point (diagonal setting). The embroidery is done in a redwork style, but with orange embroidery floss instead of the traditional red. There are 20 embroidered flowers. Seventeen of the embroidered flowers are unique, with the waterlily pattern repeated in all four corners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/51af7773-4103-44c5-b902-87d74c832381/orange+quilt+on+table.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Quilting This quilting is exquisite! Ohhh my goodness! The maker took a lot of care with this quilting design, too. Notice how the quilting lines look like they continue through the blocks. Also, the angle of the quilting changes, with the sashing strips being quilting in a cross-hatch design but the borders being the continuous design. Amazing! Each cornerstone has a flower quilted in it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e5babd4d-6289-4651-85c2-3cfdf8d8316e/orange+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Sashing Strips & Corner Stones One thing I just love about this quilt (there is so much to love!) is the wide sashing strips and corner stones. I think it adds so much to the overall design of this quilt. The negative space also provides the perfect place for the maker to highlight their incredible quilting skills, too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/353b78fe-22be-4e45-a519-8dd7dc060da5/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Batting and Backing I believe the batting is cotton that has broken down over time. You can see how it has pooled in the stitch lines. You can also see the orange fabric from the front shadowing through the quilt. The backing fabric is pieced and is the same fabric that was used on the front of this beauty! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5f38f96a-7af8-478a-8293-db839bf29d38/binding+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Binding When I first looked at this quilt, I thought the binding was made using a knife-edge technique, but it is not. For those unfamiliar with this, a knife edge binding technique, also known as a "facing" or "invisible binding," creates a clean, minimalist finish for a quilt. Instead of the traditional binding that wraps around the edges, the knife edge method involves folding the quilt's backing fabric to the front or stitching a separate facing to the quilt's edge, then turning it to the back. However, on further inspection, the maker did not do that. Instead, they added a skinny border to the backing of the fabric and wrapped it around to bind it. Amazing! It would have to be the right size—and it is!—to do this. Can you imagine? The maker then wrapped it around and sewed it on my machine. This is the only element done by machine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b0e3aff6-c056-4622-8429-169389b74751/orange+quilt+quilting+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Embroidered Quilt - Borders There are two borders in this quilt. The first one is orange and makes it look like it is an extension of the blocks, with it being the same fabric. This border is 2.75” finished. The next border is 3.5” (finished) and is the same fabric as the white used throughout this quilt. Finishing this up nicely is the orange binding, which adds the look of a frame. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/easy-jelly-roll-table-runner monthly 0.5 2025-01-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7e81f229-20fe-4980-91cf-c8fda3b0ffb2/Jelly+Roll+Table+Runner.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image to see the full video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f43bf10d-0574-4fa7-a629-144c19d87128/Copy+of+Supply+List.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e2755900-ffe8-4855-9480-8ac7aa57af15/Light+and+dark.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Make it stand out This fabric line is Ivy & Iris by Jan Petak for Moda. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9a350900-1144-40d3-a81f-e4bb17cfe9fa/Match.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Step 2: Strip Piecing Units Pick (1) 2.5” x 22” light and (1) 2.5” x 22” dark strip and place them facing each other, right sides together, lining up the long edges (note: the top and bottoms may not line up. That is okay. Strips are different lengths.) Using a .25” seam allowance, sew down one of the long sides of the set. Repeat with the remaining strips. You will have (10) strip set units when you are finished. Set the seams, open the units, and press really well to the darker fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f2ec4756-5a65-4b06-a2c2-509a1843518e/Block+Units.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Make it stand out You will have enough to make (40) 4.5” square units, but we will only be using 39. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/281dcdda-4af0-4b66-af8e-b41965d52da5/Layout+%281%29.jpg Blog - Quilted Table Runner Made Simple - Step 4: Layout On Point We will be laying out this table runner on point, meaning it will be turned so the points of the block are up and down. Find out what degree this is. Because of this, we will be piecing the “rows” together differently, but more on that later. Lay out the design as shown, paying close attention to the placement of the colors. Note: You can change the zig-zag design by changing the placement of the dark fabric. This is super fun to play with! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-october-update monthly 0.5 2024-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b5ea56ef-fbe2-498d-91dd-343fb34598db/October+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update - Make it stand out Click on the image above for the video on this or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727883328002-FJDXC8WPX7YZVH1UXRE6/new+cutting+mat.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878474039-AEO5RZ3YETPXB1LLHPYQ/Daisy+Recovering.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878495052-KI6GPP9V026NHTVVFU5Y/Earl.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878495054-N77NQMM576M4KRTP6BXG/Fall+Decor.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878901476-Z8HZW9W8UXPCHUAZWDX5/Cutting+Pattern.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878473402-C8X8W90FGLIJTRE1MY02/Cutting.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727879899674-HYOZEAMQN9JEOIK5DTXT/serger.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727879900406-NL1PLPJBMHCVAG7S4R9B/Sweatshirt+almost+done.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878901518-59FNN3YIEOMY8APW8FYO/Cutting+Pattern+%282%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878472727-HG55NSL9KRLIFIEH1SFO/Binding.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878495787-2CNRQRMLG1XWM774UTD0/FMQ.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878472726-G8B9KHD84O3DZLGDRKT8/butterflies.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878496503-BKRQ2JN1NSEKU7IZK8F6/Home+full.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878496643-PMHP7ILS3CRN18PIESM7/Home.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727879901065-K67DQM85YNHOK3R12S9N/Sweatshirt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727879901112-ZKSY7D67G41VRRSP9GPC/Wall+Unit.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727883613370-PLLDO1JDN5FVS0DDHCLQ/camping+quilt+2.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727883613354-UOHPBV6TISKY6WP1GCXC/camping+quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a11b1278-b016-40fd-818a-be7b33fd7a18/Messy.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 5/5 I was sooooo good at this in September! YAY, ME! Even when it was messy and being used, I was quick to clean it up and put things away. As you can see, I was using it to sort some fall fabric, and when I was finished, I cleaned it up! WHAT? Who is this person? I think it is safe to say that this is becoming a permanent habit. Who knew it would work! I still need the sign, but I am using it less and less. I also purchased a new mat for my cutting table. The old one was 20+ years old and it was time. Glow: I did it! YAY me! Grow: Making sure to continue through the busy holiday season https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2712f6fa-ed9e-4fba-9ca9-511b79563fb5/hoodie.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update - Habit 2: Finishing Projects This Month’s Score: 4/5 For a few years now, I have admired hoodies people make from quilts and other linens. I always wanted to make one. This was the month I did it! YAY! I bought this quilt at a yard sale. It is a store-bought quilt and was in rough shape, so it was the perfect quilt to try this on. I am so glad I did! I was inspired by Karen Sullivan from Sully’s Mitten Co . I found her on Instagram. I used this pattern for the project. I also bound and finished the camping quilt and quilted and bound the Carnival puzzle mystery quilt. I have a few projects I can’t mention yet, but I worked on them, too. :) Glow: Took the plunge on the hoodie from an quilt! I even used my serger! Grow: Keep on going! Finish up a few that you started, Kris! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727879901112-ZKSY7D67G41VRRSP9GPC/Wall+Unit.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update - Habit 3: Creating More Healthy Quilting Habits This Month’s Score: 5/5 I am kicking butt here, too! We (we=my husband) built the first shelf! YAY! I also have been walking with my neighbor each day, making sure I am staying hydrated, and really concentrating on healthy living. Glow: Shelf! The First Shelf! YAYYYY! Grow: Keep going! Keep it up! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727882087527-1NHVNHIAD08BKLKNOZ2L/PMQ+gridding.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727882087555-YR9HS8Z6Z8YWESVCCD49/PMQ+quilting.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727882088279-IG5GD4JG65UFYIOXUQM1/PMQ.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1728075079952-YTSR0RDAT63OUXQXGGL1/PMQ+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1727878472726-G8B9KHD84O3DZLGDRKT8/butterflies.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: October Update - Habit 5: Further Embrace My Quilting Community This Month’s Score: 5/5 Quite possibly the highlight for this month was going to the AQS Quilt Show in Lancaster, PA. I had such a wonderful time! The quilts were nothing less than inspiring! I mean, just look at these amazing butterfly quilts! This is the Monarch Cherrywood Challenge by Cherrywood Fabrics. Glow: Engagement accomplished! Grow: Dang it! I still haven’t taken on online class. Grrrr. I need to do that! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/everything-jell-rolls monthly 0.5 2024-09-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9a8648a9-7d2c-44e2-b006-5d22e2f692cb/Everything+Jelly+Rolls.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Make it stand out Click on the image or HERE for the video about this! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ddb86afe-f8fa-4092-a9f7-0f7baf2924c5/Other+names.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Make it stand out Note: Not all strip sets like this contain (42) 2.5" strips. Some contain less. Make sure to read the description before buying so you know what you are getting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/649ca162-d18e-49a0-a00a-376eb07af537/Fabric+color+value.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Lights, Darks, and Mediums My favorite way is to go online and search for the set. Simply type in the set you are thinking about purchasing. Usually you can see a view of all the fabrics. If you know you want a lot of contrast, you can take a screenshot, change it to black and white, and see the contrast in the set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/078c1931-7edb-42b0-843d-bbfc96fb292b/duplicates.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Look for Repeats Photo Credit: Missouri Star Quilt Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/79105f34-1abe-44ec-807f-b95d3ece46fe/pinked+edges+%281%29.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Those Pinked Edges Unless they are batiks, they usually have pinked edges, which always begs the question: Do you sew to the point of the peak or to the valley of the peak? This really depends on the manufacturer and sometimes when they are manufactured. My solution? I measure each time I open a jelly roll. This is the best way to know for sure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2d22c1da-b939-4062-8df0-9989bd0e5958/Stretchy.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Fabric Grain Next, let’s talk about the grain of the fabric. Because these strips are cut selvage to selvage, they are cut on the cross grain. What does that mean? It means it is stretchy. This is great for binding, but can cause issues if you aren’t aware and tend to stretch fabric as you sew. Be careful with this. Stretching too much can cause it to bow. Just something to be aware of. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fa086c91-8989-4ab5-85d8-3099b6ece4fc/staggered.jpg Blog - Everything Jelly Rolls - Unroll the Jelly Roll Once you start unrolling the jelly roll, you will notice two things: the strips are folded in half, selvage to selvage, and the fabrics are staggered. This is easily fixed, however, but separating them and stacking them. Personally, I like to sort them into colors, but you may like to do it a different way. Also, the pattern you are using can have a lot to do with how. you want to stack the strips. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-bright-bow-tie-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3794389d-d586-4107-aeb1-efaa4e380291/Vintage+Bow+Tie+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bright Bowtie Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the full video on this quilt, click HERE or on the picture above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/047795e2-f7f2-4055-b020-bcd2154ae3ab/pattern.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bright Bowtie Quilt - Blocks Each bowtie uses the same fabric and all of the bowties in the blocks are made with prints while the background/circle blocks are made with solids. The juxtaposition of this is amazing! It creates a wonderful secondary pattern, too, making the blocks pop. Adding to the design of these blocks, the maker took special care to turn the fabrics so the direction of the prints go in the same direction. This extra attention to detail makes this quilt even more amazing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/653ee053-214f-483f-985b-d971bf6280f6/secondary+pattern.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bright Bowtie Quilt - Secondary Pattern When the bowtie blocks come together, they make a wonderful secondary pattern with octagons. Although they really are octagons, the eye tricks you—or, at least, tricks me—to look like circles. This gives the quilt so much character, movement, and texture. You can tell the overall design was well thought out and well executed. Adding to this, the solids and the prints play so nicely together! I love this technique. It adds a lot of character to this quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/07043d2c-7de0-4256-a61a-ca07770a332b/borders.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bright Bowtie Quilt - Borders The quilt has this wonderful pink border. The maker used a diagonal quilting design to accentuates the borders. But interestingly, the quilting on one of the borders goes a different direction. Do you think this was done on purpose or was just a happy accident? I love that it has this feature! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6f5453c5-a948-4d7f-b1fa-0a1a3df43310/back+of+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bright Bowtie Quilt - Backing There is a floral backing that was pieced together with one seam down the center. The floral is an all over pattern, but interestingly, other than the wrap binding, it does not appear on the front of the quilt. Because of the busy pattern, you can’t really see much of the hand quilting. As you see from the picture, there is quite a bit of dirty on this, especially on the back. The fold lines are especially dirty. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-september-update monthly 0.5 2024-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/73c1fe9d-8308-496d-850b-0963c02873af/September+Habit+Update+%285%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update - Make it stand out To see the video, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380086440-8LTTM0IUVEK2M8KMPG1S/class+2.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380087317-88MUA4A8XVTVLPR1JPWH/class.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380736219-ZGK1ZE8O4L62C38IDO3T/wonky+log+cabin.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380733009-AOFSPV9ZW5C91N8CIWIK/quilts%21.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380732451-GYMQJNZ65IT2D92GLU83/quilts%21+2.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380734591-5H78CZ3O3B9DOEOYX7XD/sewing.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380087247-ARLCWKZHS1ANQHV712ZI/class+3.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380105037-VSFKW4JS4FAAUODLY9QW/wonky+log+cabin+quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380793637-RMYBJV9T8GQWRBGT6O14/dust+hammock.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380104963-WJ13GWEP8Q0R9GUHZEM1/so+much+light%21.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380732377-A8YVCDWCWGAZHAYF9YNE/lights%21+More+Lights%21.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380793686-U98N0KJDHG5X7A7MZG87/gift+bags.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380733191-EPQK433H8MYYWA2XLRYZ/reusable+gift+bags.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380086459-2WIF6QOUYYLVOHQNRRCO/bags.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380794265-AMMKB4UMADDROTRJ29GG/holiday+quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1725380950465-XOJGWF3AVZSCQT7PLI31/daisy.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1145ded6-3747-4717-93ca-b937280d9ae9/so+much+light%21.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 3/5 Okay, okay. I didn’t do that well with this. Are you ready for the excuses? HA! I always have them! This month, we are starting the renovation in the sewing room. This will probably be a long process, so please hold your applause for when it is complete. Anywho, we (and by “we” I mean my husband mostly) has been putting in the lights—28 of them, as a matter of fact! Because of this, things in general were a mess and unfortunately, the cutting table became a workbench table. It was a mess. The good news is it drove me crazy, telling me I am making progress, right? I enjoy having this space clear. It helps with my crazy brain. Glow: It must be an established habit because—hello!—the clutter made me crazy! Grow: Figure out a solution for the rest of the renovations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8f2763e4-9490-4cff-aadb-6e8c80565fd3/projects+%282%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update - Habit 2: Finishing Projects This Month’s Score: 5/5 I am kicking butt with this one! Wow, am I ever on a roll. This is also becoming a habit, I think. This month I completed five reusable holiday gift bags, have most of my yellow wonky log cabin blocks completed from a class I took on August 24th, AND I have been making progress on my Pumpkin Kisses quilt that I started last year. I also dropped off the camping quilt at the longarmer. Finally, I finished a quilt for a collaboration video that is going to be released in November. It is made with all scraps, and I can’t wait to share that quilt with everyone. In fact, I just ordered the backing for it today, so that is yet another finish for next month, I hope. Now for the downside: I am getting a bit too obsessed with finished projects, to the point that nothing else matters. It is called balance for a reason. I need to find that balance for sure. Glow: Staying on track! Grow: Maybe back off a little on the urgency and find a good balance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2d62b448-0fe8-490e-abc3-ba023d1e858d/lighting.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update - Habit 3: Creating More Healthy Quilting Habits This Month’s Score: 4/5 This! LIGHTS! New lighting and, more importantly, appropriated lighting for the size of this space has been a game-changer in my sewing space. I mean, look at all that light! Wow, wow, wow! You’d think I would give myself a 5/5, right? Welllll, haven’t been great with taking movement breaks OR staying hydrated. Glow: Literally glowing with lighting! Grow: Remember movement breaks and hydration! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0b7d1972-d3b3-4469-a19e-37bd630003c3/goal+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: September Update - Habit 5: Further Embrace My Quilting Community This Month’s Score: 5/5 So much happening in this category! I took a class with Andrea Hoke called Wonky Log Cabin. It was so much fun! I also participated in Conquer Your Fabric Scrap Summit sponsored by The Ruffled Purse. Lastly, I worked on our guild’s Christmas quilt. So much happening in this month! Glow: I am doing great with this goal! Grow: I still haven’t taken on online class. I really want to do that. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/holiday-gift-bag monthly 0.5 2024-10-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/534de2e7-ee2a-4c56-9104-c09d431bf6ce/reusable+gift+bags+thumbnail.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to watch the video tutorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/34eba164-5815-4519-9509-fb62e40ae8cc/Supply+List.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/89cea90c-e941-4554-adfe-254159d01687/Merry+Little+Christmas.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Make it stand out This is the fabric line I used for the project. Isn't it pretty? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2e645e7f-03d4-4610-86c3-40eb2f4adcd1/adding+interfacing+to+the+back+of+the+front+middle.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Prepare Appliqué Background To stabilize the background of the applique square, add an interfacing. This will help ensure the applique lays nice and flat and the stitches remain even. I like to use a medium-weight heat and bond, but any medium-weight interfacing will work. To fuse the fabric to the interfacing, I like to use a piece of parchment paper to protect my iron. I use Reynold Sheets because they have writing on one side. This way I know which side is up and which is down. I will forget otherwise. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/061783d5-ed0f-43c6-b505-9daea467d2be/Tracing+Applique.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Prepare Appliqué Prepare the appliqué by first drawing the appliqué shape on the back (smooth side) of a fusible web. Roughly cut out around the image (do not cut on the drawn lines—we will do that after it is fused to the fabric). Next, fuse it to the back of the appliqué fabric following the manufacturers directions. Once it is fused and cooled, cut out the shape on the drawn lines. Turn it over and fuse it to the center of the appliqué background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a8916ee8-7eac-491d-9252-0604a371b0e1/Machine+Appliquing.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Applique Motif If desired, you can stitch around the applique to secure it to the background. I like to do this by machine, but you can do it by hand, if you’d like. I use a buttonhole stitch that is on my machine and thread that matches the applique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ba717109-c1d8-44c0-b638-99a55b882989/adding+borders+to+the+front+.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Add Borders to the Front of the Bag Sew the two side pieces to the sides of the appliqué unit. Press towards the strips of fabric. Next, sew the top and bottom strips to the top and bottom of the bag front. Press well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3093094a-6dff-4e5a-beb0-3589b51be745/add+batting.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Adding Batting to the Front & Back of Bag Once the the front applique unit is finished, it is time to add the batting to the front and back of the bag. I like to use fusible fleece because it haves it a sturdy base and give the finished bag some body. You can use any batting, however, or none at all. That’s completely up to you. The same is true with quilting it. I like to quilt it some, but it is not required. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fce20de2-3397-4dd0-851a-37bcea860ff0/add+ribbon+%281%29.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Optional: Add Ribbon to the Back If you want to add an attached ribbon to the bag, this is when you would do that. Measure down 2.5” inches and mark it on the center top of the back of the bag. Fold the ribbon in half lengthwise and stitch it to the back of top of the bag using matching or coordinating thread. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7650a925-ecfb-4167-af23-f4e5b94a874c/add+lining.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Add Lining To add the lining, layer one of the lining pieces with the front of the bag, right sides together. Stitch across the top of edge. Next, layer the other lining piece with the back of the bag, right sides together, and stitch across the top edge. Press one towards the outside of the bag and one towards the lining. This will help when finishing the construction of the bag because the edges will nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1cef7343-8aad-4847-9bf1-ed11cb984caa/sew+around+bag.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Putting It Together Clip or pin around the perimeter of the bag. Stitch around the perimeter of the bag leaving a small opening for turning in the lining section of the bag. To finish the bag, lay the front of the bag on a flat surface with the lining at one end and the front of the bag at the other. Next, place the back of the bag on top of the front, right sides together, making sure the lining is matched up with the lining and the front is matched with the back. Tip: IF you added ribbon, make sure the ribbon is out of the way when sewing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0f56d030-a69d-4166-9327-92f79392455d/Boxing+Corners.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Optional: Boxing the Corners I like to box my corners, but again, this is optional. To do this, measure in the desired size and draw the square. For this size bag and because of the design of the bag, I like make my boxed corners 3/4” from the sewn line or, if you have a good seam allowance, 1” from the edge of the fabric. Mark all four corners and then cut out the notches by cutting on the drawn lines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/18fb46ec-a24b-4edf-9e46-064ea52400a0/Boxing+Corners+%281%29.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Stitch Boxed Corners Next, working one corner at a time, pull apart the covers and match the edges of the corners, pushing the seams in opposite direction. Using a 1/4” seam allowance, sew on the edge. Repeat for the remaining corners of your bag. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7c1316d2-2b45-4a50-a212-df53f52319c5/Tops+stitch.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - Almost Finished! Once it is turned back around so the right sides are on the outside and all the seams are trimmed, give it a good press and push the lining to the inside of the bag. Top stitch around the top of the bag, stitch the turning hole closed and you are finished! YAY! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9bdee6fe-5a84-47c0-9f16-749b8111843f/finished.jpg Blog - Holiday Gift Bag - It’s Finished! That’s it! You make a reusable gift bag! YAY! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-kitchen-sink-quilt-top monthly 0.5 2026-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/077b27b8-9cfb-445f-9719-c7ef5b8519b7/Old+Scrappy+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1723142361429-E9ZK8DEJEA9BZVVTABJ2/Colors+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1723142300696-CRWLBPBUQ3VE20TQMMWZ/Blocks++Mockup.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1723142349246-7O9LQ3JQZZZDFPS8UI7J/Back+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1723142367871-URXBGEERM5YL4SDNLQEJ/daisy+approves.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/eac74bed-14e3-45b6-8279-55261826a610/Blocks+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt - Blocks Each block is made up of 29 pieces. Although this pattern could be done using the EPP (English Paper Piecing) technique, I don’t think it was used in this quilt because of the way the back looks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/951f3ed7-87c7-46a9-a8fb-af62eadad9f1/Back+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt - Back One of the best things about studying a quilt top verses a finished quilt is that you can get a great look at how it was constructed. This is especially great if you intend to recreate the block! As you can see, this was hand pieced with wonderfully tiny stitches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/47b46ea4-5cf6-4e09-9ad5-4cdc2ec9caa3/Colors+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Kitchen Sink Quilt - Colors Ohhhh, the colors! When I first started studying this quilt, I thought it was primarily made with navy, red, and pink scraps and a few other colors mixed in. As you can see, that isn’t the case. Although the navy fabrics really do catch your eye, practically every color of the rainbow is represented. It is crazy and chaotic and all kinds of wonderful. It breaks all the rules, and I am here for it. Your eye doesn’t get a resting place—so what? Let’s break some quilting rules! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-august-update monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8196f0d0-535e-435e-bcc5-2bcb49becfad/August+Habit+Update.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update - Make it stand out To see the video, click here or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bd4ebcc4-f2c5-4597-a781-a2e612992866/No+Dumping+Zone.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 4/5 I did great this month! I even bought a new sign! The only issue I am having is that we are remodeling the sewing room and things are getting piled on the cutting table because of that. It’s temporary, right? No big deal! Still, overall, I did great! Glow: New IN-YOUR-FACE sign is up! YAY! Grow: Find a balance during renovations! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1722547101368-JSM4ASM3NFJSVNJEKEX1/sunflower+tote.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1722547060787-ZFBPEOTVDNFLN3RYP4SO/bug+quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c927d0c1-d3b8-4878-8c69-961ec95cd0ad/final+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1720533035064-9TTB470V9U5MWV263BCS/Roll+with+it+quilt.png Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/920c5511-0219-4bcb-bf30-8158369afd28/Final+Camp+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1722547060787-UBZS5OWXK7BQLWXSHA29/covid+quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1722547103518-VVT345L2FILBQRU9YUHX/placemats.png Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1722547104403-DO0TZDOXWIFC2IS3JK5L/table+runner+%281%29.png Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/31b17b07-450a-4014-a243-f601260346d4/holes.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: August Update - Sewing Room Remodel Glow: The holes are measured and cut for the recessed lighting in my sewing room. This wasn’t an easy task! We had to drills 28 holes! YES! 28! And make sure they are in the right places. Grow: Get a move on the other areas of this remodel. I have been dragging my feet with painting my cutting table. It has been years. I need to do this! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/working-with-micro-scraps monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/592049b7-57cd-4518-b8cd-f657eb224126/Micro+Scraps.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Make it stand out To see the tutorial on this project, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b0e5e0de-c033-4133-b1b2-ae3d890b8536/Step+One.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Layer Micro Scraps On Fusible Fleece Cut the fusible fleece into the desired size. For this project, I cut them a little bigger than than 5”. You will trim the project down, so be aware of that. Lay the fusible fleece square with the fusible side up on a pressing surface. Layer your micro scraps on the diagonal as show. Keep laying until the entire square of fusible fleece is cover. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8af6d2c2-7d2b-4c4a-8307-0124f625f650/Step+2.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Fuse Micro Scraps Using a piece of parchment paper to protect your iron, place the parchment paper on top of the fabric. Fuse following the manufacturer’s instructions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e1171ab-b259-4ac8-bc79-d0b3ea0e31a1/Step+3.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Sew Pieces Down Top stitch on the block you just made. I like to sew with straight lines going the opposite direction from the fabric. This will ensure they won’t easily lift up. Since there are raw edges, fraying is inevitable. For less fraying, sew more lines. For more fraying (it’s a cool look), so less lines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/febb0dbe-57b7-4b08-9434-1932d2d7b48e/Step+4B.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Trim The Block With the fabric side facing down, trim the block. I like to do it this way to ensure the my ruler is within the fleece and it is covering the entire back of the block. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8c9e0f5f-e89e-4993-b140-fa1a7138313c/square.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Finished Block! Once you are finished trimming, it will look something like this! YAY! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e9439eb5-d405-4fd9-b502-c3d669eddf83/Step+5.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Sewing Them Together I like to simply butt the squares up against each other and zigzag stitch them together, but you could stitch them using a traditional method of placing them right sides together and sewing up one side, opening, and pressing. Have some fun with this! It is your project and there isn’t one way to do it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c927d0c1-d3b8-4878-8c69-961ec95cd0ad/final+%281%29.jpg Blog - Working With Micro Scraps - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/layer-cake-camping-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-05-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/88a50168-ad46-4280-8c61-2b63199d3b3a/Layer+Cake+Camping+Quilt+For+Website.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Make it stand out To see the video, click on the photo above or HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/453b4130-9fac-4f00-a91f-de090ba3f7c2/Camp+quilt+Supplies+%281%29.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ece5d45c-a9f9-4e05-9c46-8ecb93400982/Cut+to+10.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Step 1: Cutting the Fabric For this project, we will use all 42 of the layer cake squares. Personally, I like to cut off the pinked edges on layer cakes. Just a word of caution, however: make sure they are 10” before cutting them down. Some fabric companies take the measurement from the pinked points and some from the pinked valley. For this set (Moda), the measurement is from valley to valley. I trim those points away! Next, press and cut the sashing strips to 1.5” x WOF (Width of Fabric). Then I cut them down to 1.5” x 10”. We need a lot of these (97!) for this project. Cutting in batches works well for this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/853695c5-1a8d-4c31-b819-deba8cb4588d/sashing+strips.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Step 2: Cutting the Sashing Strips Next, press and cut the sashing strips to 1.5” x WOF (Width of Fabric). Then I cut them down to 1.5” x 10”. We need a lot of these (97!) for this project. Cutting in batches works well for this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fdcea8bf-450a-4a04-8746-5bdb4dc49c6b/fussy+cutting.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Step 3: Fussy or Focus Cutting Cornerstones There are so many ways to do this! You can use washy tape or a wet erase marker to show the perimeter of the motif, you can use a template the size you need (in this case, 1.5” square), or you can cut out a section that is bigger and then cut it down to size. Regardless of what technique used, make sure to remember there is a 1/4” seam allowance on all sides. This will ensure your cute motif doesn’t get lost in the finished quilt. We need (56) 1.5” corner stones for this project. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/920c5511-0219-4bcb-bf30-8158369afd28/Final+Camp+Quilt.jpg Blog - Layer Cake Quilt: Camping Style! - Step 6: Putting It All Together Once. the rows and sashing strips with the corner stones are complete, sew them all together. Because of the way we pressed, all of the intersections should all nest into place. Press well. The quilt top is finished! YAY! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-northern-lights-scrap-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b2c208cb-0cbb-4709-96d1-889bcaf9dc0d/Lessons+Old+Scrap+Quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Northern Lights Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9ad02247-e341-4319-9ceb-709bfcfe156f/Norther+Lights+Quilt+Block+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Northern Lights Quilt - Blocks I just can’t get enough of these quilt blocks. They are all so pretty and different! Each of the 81 blocks are made up of (2) four-patches and (2) half-square triangles. Most of the blocks are laid out in the same configuration with the dark portion of the half-square triangles facing towards the middle of the block, and the dark units of the four-patches set diagonally, making a line down the block. However, some of the blocks are turned and don’t follow this rule. Also, some of the blocks are inside the seams of the edges. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/59d25784-ce66-4d6d-a235-c7b79a0d6379/Norther+Lights+Quilt+Sashing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Northern Lights Quilt - Sashing Although there aren’t any borders on this quilt, the sashing makes up for it! This quilt has super wide solid green sashing pieces between the blocks and between the rows. The sashing strips measure 4” finished, almost the same size as the blocks. This makes me wonder—did the maker get tired of making the blocks? Did they realize they were going to need a ton of blocks to make a quilt this size and decided to make the borders bigger because of that? What happened here? This is the stuff I spend a bit too much time thinking about! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f27cc9d6-4aa1-4796-b562-ab6059795020/Norther+Lights+Quilt+batting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Northern Lights Quilt - Batting The center of this quilt is a blanket. I am tempted to call it an old blanket, but I am sure it was at least new-ish when it was put together. Right now, it is in terrible shape. It is filthy and stained. Was that from the years of use or was it always an old blanket? I have so many questions about this quilt! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e7cbab3c-f064-4d81-a96c-7177bdbe7afd/Norther+Lights+Quilt+backing+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Northern Lights Quilt - Backing Okay. I will admit it. I may be a bit more excited about the backing than anything else in this quilt. Well, other than those adorable Northern Lights blocks. Just look at this amazing backing! I love the Christmas-y stripe. I can just see this in another project! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-charm-pack-hst-tablerunner monthly 0.5 2024-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7d7a926f-2226-4465-b3c6-a8285cfec6a7/Just+One+Charm+Pack+Dandi+Duo.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Make it stand out To see the video, click on the photo above or HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9234d0fe-6d0f-478e-a703-34817731d4fd/Supplies.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ffe115f4-39a1-4ab8-8fb0-c966376bc380/lights+and+Darks.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 1: Pick Fabrics For this project, we need 21 light 5” squares and 21 dark/mediums fabrics. To do this, I start by laying all the squares out and taking a picture of them on my phone. Then I change the photo to black and white (see picture). This allows me to see the color value of this, It is important to not trust your eye with this. Sometimes light fabrics look like darks and vice versa. The key to this is finding contrasting sets, and depending on the charm pack, you may have more lights than darks or more darks than lights. Keep separating and adjusting until you have two piles of 21 squares, one pile with light fabrics and one pile with dark fabrics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/74bcdcf8-3504-4165-ad95-8d420af2bbe2/lights+darks+and+right+sides+together.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 2: Match Sets Once you have two sets of 21, start matching them up into pairs. Each pair should have one light fabric and one dark fabric in it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e43bdca2-aeb0-403a-aa27-ef1a718b4039/draw+diagonal+line.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 3: Draw Center Line Take one of the contrasting pairs (two 5” squares) and place them right sides together. Line the set up on a cutting mat with the lightest side facing up. Rotate the set 45 degrees so the points of the squares are on a line on the mat. Any line will do, just make sure both the top and bottom points are lined up. Using a long ruler, place the one edge of the ruler on the line. Draw a line corner to corner. Repeat this step with the remaining 20 fabric pairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9fc35e30-e554-4927-a05f-85a09a814223/quarter+inch+over+from+center.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 4: Draw 1/4” Lines Next, move the ruler over 1/4” from the center line and draw a line. Do the same on the other side of the center line (see photo). Repeat this step with the remaining 20 fabric pairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cf526c9b-8fd7-4477-a551-2fd25caec372/should+look+like+this.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Three Lines Here are all the lines for reference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e55b19ae-2e24-4e53-ba76-5bcc5ee0a270/sew.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 5: Sew On The Sew Lines Next, sew on the first sew line right of the center using a 1.8 stitch length. Next, turn the block and do the same on the other side of the center line (see photo). Repeat this step with the remaining 20 fabric pairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a5f21a22-6829-4550-b5b9-68113a8c2b99/cut.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 6: Cut Half-Square Triangles Apart After both lines on each pair are sewn 1/4” from the center line, set your seams (this will get rid of those bubbles). If your fabric shifted some during the sewing process, don’t worry. We will be squaring everything up. Repeat this step with the remaining 20 fabric pairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b6cc080d-14fa-4662-8d33-275787d7ced5/Screenshot+2024-05-09+at+2.35.18%E2%80%AFPM.png Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 7; Pressing The Blocks Next, open the half-square triangle unit and press towards the dark fabric, by first finger pressing and then using an iron. Repeat on all the units. You should have 42 half-square triangles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/752ca416-72e4-49f1-b0af-a74fbce22755/trim+1.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 8a: Squaring Up The Blocks (Bloc-Loc) I love to use a Bloc-Loc rule for this step, but in Step 8c, I show how to use a regular ruler, too. To use the Bloc-Loc ruler, lay the half-square triangle on a cutting mat with the printed side up. Place the Bloc-Loc ruler on the half-square triangle block and “lock” the 45 degree ridge on the center diagonal seam. Move the ruler diagonally so the bottom and the left sides of the half-square triangle is slightly over the 4.5” mark. Trim the right and top of the block. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/dc4628b4-8f40-4b9e-8e4b-eb1c5d5dc2e2/trim+2.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 8b: Squaring Up The Blocks, Part 2 Next, slide the Bloc-Loc ruler down diagonally so the top and right sides of the half-square triangle are on the 4.5” line. Next, turn your unit (a rotating mat or a small mat helps with this step), and trim the bottom and left sides of the half-square triangle. As always, repeat with the remaining units until you have (42) 4.5” half-square triangle units. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/005864ee-1e19-4f66-82f8-7d0f58d92388/trim+3.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 8c: Squaring Up The Units (Regular Ruler) To use a ruler, lay the half-square triangle on a cutting mat with the printed side up. Place the square ruler on the half-square triangle block and line up the 45 degree line on the center diagonal seam. Move the ruler diagonally so the bottom and the left sides of the half-square triangle is slightly over the 4.5” mark. Trim the right and top of the block. Just like with the Bloc-Loc ruler, slide the ruler down diagonally so the top and right sides of the half-square triangle are on the 4.5” line. Next, turn your unit (a rotating mat or a small mat helps with this step), and trim the bottom and left sides of the half-square triangle. As always, repeat with the remaining units until you have (42) 4.5” half-square triangle units. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6b3cc51d-17ff-4867-9e6c-aeaaca42fc73/layout.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 9: The Layout This is going to take some time, but it is so worth it! I like to lay out all the half-square triangles on my design board with all of the diagonal seams going the same direction. This gives me a good idea of what I am working with and allows me to start playing and laying out the design by moving half-square triangles in and out of the design, kind of like a puzzle. Personally, I love to cluster colors together, giving a diagonal line look, but you don’t have to. Lay it out and play until you find a layout you like. Pro Tip: Put it on the design board and walk about for a few hours. Fresh eyes always help with a project like this. The layout I used is (4) half-square triangles across and (10) half-square triangles down, with a finished size that measures 16” x 40”. Please note: You will have two half-square triangles leftover when using this layout. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/553dcd20-1df0-49be-91f6-64587d522a8e/final.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Step 10: Finishing the Table Runner! Once you have the table runner arranged in a pleasing layout, sew together four blocks per row and then sew all 10 rows together. Layer the backing (printed side down), the batting, and the table runner top (printed side up). Baste, quilt and bind as desired. Yay! The table runner is finished! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a08b960f-70c9-49ad-b9e7-dc99cc45cf0f/two+runners.jpg Blog - Just One Charm Pack Table Runner - Alternative Sizes Here you can see I have it laid out showing two table runners—one with the dark fabrics included and one without. This is a great way to make two smaller table runners with just one charm pack. The layout design for each of these is (3) half-square triangles across and (7) down, making a table runner that finishes at 12” x 28”. Another layout idea is to make a long, skinny table runner. To do this, layout the design like this: Three half-square triangles across and 14 down. This will measure 12” x 56” and will use all of the charm pack. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-grandmothers-flower-garden-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/10d89d85-7f85-418e-8d83-086699012243/Lessons+from+an+old+Grandmother%27s+Flower+Garden.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Grandmother’s Flower Garden Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to watch the video. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a80c6dbb-0aae-46c6-acf5-0c17a5e5ef8e/Gma+flower+garden+block.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Grandmother’s Flower Garden Quilt - Blocks Simply amazing! Look at these blocks! Oh my goodness! There are 77 blocks in all, with each made of 19 little 1” hexagons, making the total of hexagons in the blocks (not including the path) 1,463! Whoa. That’s a lot of English paper pieced hexagons! The colors are organized well with the centers being the same solid yellow throughout. Each block has three fabrics in it: center (yellow); first inner flower; second outer flower. All the fabrics are prints, mostly feedsacks, except for the yellow centers and the off-white muslin path. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a2155499-4a62-48ed-afc7-e82dbd1c750e/Gma+flower+garden+border.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Grandmother’s Flower Garden Quilt - Borders The borders are an interesting part of this quilt. They are yellow gingham fabric and the body or main part of this quilt (flower garden) was appliquéd to the border. What is really interesting, however, is that it appliquéd on at an angle. This is something curious about this quilt. Why did the maker do that? Further, there appears to be hexagons added to this (see the color difference). Was the maker trying to make it straight or wanted it at an angle? I have so many questions about this aspect of this quilt! What do you think? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9abd1d80-385e-4cf1-b6a4-b08b7a5ce97c/Gma+flower+garden+backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Grandmother’s Flower Garden Quilt - Batting & Backing LOOK at this backing! I mean, don’t you just want to run your hand over it? It is perfect. This is why I love quilting. Look at that dimension. Can you just imagine quilting all of those little hexies? And to quilt them twice—the inside and outside! As for batting, I am pretty sure it is made with cotton batting. It does have a bit of a puff, however, so it could be a polyester or polyesster/cotton blend. If it is a blend, the quilt would have been finished much later. Still very possible considering I have UFOs (UnFinished Objects) that are 20+ years old! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/22-foundation-paper-piecing-tips monthly 0.5 2024-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fd75c1ca-9bec-4018-b4d8-ef04c4aea8bd/22+Foundation+Paper+Piecing+Tips.jpg Blog - 22 Foundation Paper Piecing Tips - Make it stand out Click here or on the image above to watch the video on this topic. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-april-update monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/75a4aeab-1e1c-4a7f-9066-cb01beae8fdf/April+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update - Make it stand out To see the video, click here or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bd4ebcc4-f2c5-4597-a781-a2e612992866/No+Dumping+Zone.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 4/5 My mistake in March was removing the sign. I think I thought I was good and the habit was well-established. It wasn’t. I realize I need the sign as a reminder or I will continue to dump stuff on my cutting table. So, the sign is back until this becomes a more permanent habit. Glow: When the sign up up, the cutting table stayed clean. Grow: Make a cuter sign and reclaim my thread holder. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986425886-8Q7UXQPNP4TQANVF8B3Y/crazy+Quilt.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986425874-415YBPO56F9Q6TXKXSLN/heart+project.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986426545-V6BS4AI8B5UIV0HB5AFH/I+spy.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986426658-Q5OE9M2PS9K5CTQLTXDL/Panel+Projects+%281%29.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986427297-E56Y8TDSNCA4W37AD9RR/projects.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1711986427360-MW400DQRTHE4AOVQWGQ3/Old+Quilt+PIllows.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9ca390dd-3bf1-4077-aff0-e4e5175ba3c4/Stanley.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: April Update - Operation Hydration Although I did attempt to improve in all three of these areas, my primary focus in March was on staying hydrated. And I did it. Mostly, I purchased one of those Stanley tumblers that holds 40 oz. of water. Honestly, I didn’t know if I wanted it because it was cute or for hydration, but let me tell you—it has worked! I am so much better at drinking water now. Sometimes you just need a cute cup to make make it happen. Am I right? I am only giving myself a 4 out of 5 because I have to remember to fill it in the morning. If I don’t fill it first thing, I am less likely to fill it later. Glow: After thinking long and hard about what would help this issue of me not drinking water. I decided to take the plunge (pun intended) and get a cute cup that holds a lot of water. And it is orange. How can you go wrong with orange? Grow: Remember to fill it before coming into my sewing room in the morning. It has to be filled for me to use it, right? https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-fancy-dresden-plate-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b37f7358-ecfa-47a4-abf0-a6b7e9a587b7/Thumbnail+Fancy+Dresden+Plate+Quilt+lighter.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image above or HERE to see the YouTube video on this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9f6c66e3-f0fe-4bda-8511-4daf91f51f27/whole+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Make it stand out Isn’t it a beauty? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2653c463-a729-4798-a869-9ecf1da61f2e/block.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Blocks These blocks are absolutely stunning! I can’t help but see crosses in the blocks, with the purple fabrics making a cross-like design. It has an Easter feel to me, or at the very least, a spring feel to it. The blocks are made with coordinating fabric scraps for each block and with the exception of one block, are symmetrical. The maker put a lot of thought into the block design, in my opinion, adding to the beauty of this quilt and making each block unique while adding some cohesion as there are duplicates of fabrics between blocks. Each block measure 16” square and there are 24 blocks. As with traditional Dresden Plate blocks, there are 20 “blades”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/07edf2b3-bf63-48f4-a51e-65e82e6118f8/dresden+plate+quilt+quilting+%28600+x+600+px%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Quilting First and foremost, the quilting is spectacular. The style, the stitches, all of it! Amazing! BUT it is also a bit weird. As you can see in the photo, the quilting is dense in the body of the quilt, especially in the centers of the Dresden plate blocks, at the intersections of the blocks, and on the edges. The quilting in the borders, however, does not seem to match the quilting in the main part of the quilt. Hmmm. That’s odd. Adding to this mystery is that the fabric also seems to be a different color. Odd, isn’t it? My first thought is that it was finished later, but the binding is the same fabric as the “cross” looking motif on the Dresden’s, you know, the part that makes it fancy. Hmmmm. Could it have been finished later? Did the maker finish it later or did someone else? So many questions! What do you think happened here? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0a0bfcc3-572f-42a3-9041-103a64affda3/backing+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Loose Threads? Here’s something odd. Not one of the quilting threads are trimmed and/or knotted or buried on the back! This leads me to even more questions: how did the stitching stay in tact? Why wasn’t it finished? What happened? I need to know! :) Sometimes—most of the time, actually—I never do find out the answers to these burning questions. Bummer. I really want to know! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/69341fc6-f7c4-409d-8989-b1ac3939c874/batting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Batting I love putting old quilts up in front of a window (temporally, of course). It allows me to see the batting. You can see how the cotton batting has clumped together in the quilt and makes the quilting stand out. I love the look of this. Bonus: The entire quilt looks like stain glass! Love that! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e3b222dc-3c80-43d3-a760-fd9a9fd9a021/binding.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Binding Adding to the consistency of the overall quilt, the binding is made from the same purple fabric that is in the Dresden plate and the orange-peel style overlay in the Dresden’s center. The binding is a separate piece that was attached by hand to the front and then attached to the back by hand using a whip stitch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ac280452-05cb-4ec0-a6bc-9d88369c3607/Focus+cutting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Fancy Dresden Plate Quilt - Look at the Ladies! Oh, wow! Look at the those fussy cut (or focus cut) blades! Do you see the ladies? The maker cut the blades so that the motifs are in the blade. I just love that! The maker did this in a few of the blocks. So cool! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-layer-cake-crazy-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/56c42086-b13d-428b-846d-e3fe9f384103/Crazy+Quilt+Just+One+Layer+Cake.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Crazy Quilt - Make it stand out For a full tutorial, click here or click on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ce9417e6-61f6-484e-81ed-340ded6ec0c4/Supply+List.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Crazy Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-hawaiian-quilt monthly 0.5 2026-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c9fc4997-9e68-4973-93cf-8bc11246dbac/Lessons+fron+an+old+hawaiian+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image to watch the video or click here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/40091383-c1e7-4fcf-91d8-ea27a064949f/Hawaiian+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Make it stand out Isn’t this amazing? Wow, wow, wow! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5b31ac21-ed70-488a-ab9b-ad2df417f5d5/Hawaiian+Quilt+Block.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Blocks Wow, wow, wow. I just cannot get over how beautifully done this is! The appliqué, the quilting, the colors! All near perfect. There are 16 of these incredible blocks in this quilt and each measure approx. 18” square. There are a few that are a bit smaller, but not many. The average size, however is 18”. The style is a Hawaiian quilt, or what you would associate with a Hawaiian design. I love the circles quilted in the centers of these motifs. The quilting is around each of the appliqués on both sides (inner and outer), making the design pop and giving it a wonderful dimension. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/26d271b2-7c73-41e6-8d3e-d07d06f0770a/Hawaiian+Quilt+border.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Borders The borders feature 32 of this fleur de lis design, all hand appliquéd on to a 17.5” wide border. Just like the rest of the quilt, the motif is hand-quilted inside and outside of the motif. Beautifully done! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3b3e8f22-5018-42c6-97da-381f7f7f4aba/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Batting & Backing Oh! The backing! Just look at that quilting! It is amazing. The backing fabric is a light pink that compliments the front of the quilt well. The batting is pieced at the top. It appears that the maker didn’t have enough and had piece scraps together to make up the size difference. The batting is cotton and is in great condition considering the age. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8120afad-c1e2-4ac0-9a8a-3b1992d99c86/binding+and+backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Hawaiian Quilt - Binding Oh, the binding! I just love that the maker used a pink gingham as a binding. It give this quilt a whimsical feel and just adds a pop of a something-something to it. For me, it speaks to the maker’s personality, for some reason, as if to tell us not to take things too seriously. I hear you, Sis! Thank you for the reminder. The binding is a separate piece that was attached by machine to the front and then attached to the back by hand using a whip stitch. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/one-panel-five-projects monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/31cec157-0f71-480a-bcdc-86af3e456fc4/Panel+Project.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Make it stand out For a full tutorial, click here or click on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/583c46ec-9201-48d1-8e36-88ccd6040916/Pillow+Blog+%281%29.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Project 1: Pillows These placemat panels make wonderful pillows for your home, for gifts, or to sell. They are quick, easy, and are super cute. The best part? You can use them in a pillow cover and change them seasonally. That is what I like to do with these. So many options! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/efade675-4a2f-4545-bf0a-b640ad8b7367/Mini+Quilt+Blog.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Project 2: Wall Hanging These panels also make great mini quilted wall hangings. Again, these would be perfect as a gift or for yourself or to sell! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d17a18f3-0726-47e6-a83f-3f1bf61ddaea/Faux+Binding+Placemat+Blog.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Project 3: Faux-Binding Placemat Have you ever wondered how to make a quilt or other project that looks like it has a binding but doesn’t? This is the technique for you! Let’s get started! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1399643c-f1f4-466b-9859-6b6d5fba44d4/Flat+Placemat+Blog.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Project 4: Flat Placemat I love placemats, but I am also picky about them. I want them to be flat because I hate when dishes are all wobbly on the placemat. Soooo, let’s make a flat one! This is a great way to make a placemat! Super easy, too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ee4e2567-a2a8-486b-b445-5856c98a9002/table+runner+Blog.jpg Blog - Five Ways to Use A Placemat Panel - Project 5: Table Runner For a table runner, you will need two placemat panels and a center fabric panel. This is a great way to use these placemat panels and would make a wonderful set to give as a gift. Let’s get started! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/diy-pillow-form-insert monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0003ae05-046a-4a73-a82c-99fdae99e3b4/How+to+Make+A+Pillow+Insert+%281%29.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Form - Make it stand out For the video tutorial, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/786ddce3-3828-4124-9567-ce705032db68/Length+width+blog.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Form - Let’s Get Started! Using a measuring tape, measure the width and length of the pillow casing. Write these measurements down on a piece of paper. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/envelope-pillow-cover-tutorial monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0b62a5ab-9b38-44d4-b24e-09ea3c349056/Thumbnail+Envelope+PIllow+Cover+Tutorial.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Click HERE or on the image above to see the full video tutorial! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/786ddce3-3828-4124-9567-ce705032db68/Length+width+blog.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Let’s Get Started! Using a measuring tape, measure the width and length of the pillow front you want to make into a pillow. Write these measurements down on a piece of paper. For each of the two techniques, you will make two panels for the back. These panels will overlap to create the envelope opening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d708ee98-1ea7-4740-b8c6-7b92fc31f203/Formula+1+Hemmed+Panels+%281%29.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b261489b-8c41-4c8a-8f18-c2093b4b5307/Fold+under+%281%29.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1708113721850-T39F20AWRWX58L237L6V/Short+side.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1708113690034-PZPIPYNUA21CLW1FFWEK/long+side.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e9c5e455-157e-4da8-815e-daccb86c7e4a/trim+edges.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f72b2bc3-2c0b-4ff8-8087-50829621a068/Formula+2+Folded+Panels.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9c33fabf-1534-4979-b2e8-eb15ae90c8e6/crease.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/834886dd-0189-4788-9328-3b244fdd8055/long+side+%281%29.jpg Blog - How To Make A Pillow Cover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-old-bow-tie-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3755a62c-c281-456b-ae80-afc700af81c2/Bow+Tie+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video about this quilt, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/74f3f9ca-2a53-4bc4-9bea-ec9a9f1694d8/bow+tie+whole+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - Blocks These blocks are so pretty! I mean, look at them! They are all hand-pieced and the workmanship is exceptional. Many of the fabrics are faded with some to the point that there isn’t any color at all. Because of all the fading, it makes me wonder what this quilt looked like in its prime. Can you imagine how bright and cheery it was? Now it has transformed into a soft quilt that reminds me of the early days of spring. Each block is 8” x 8” and has five pieces. Imagine hand-piecing all those inset seams! Amazing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/abd71c42-ae11-491b-aab7-154d6ce4da4e/bow+tie+quilting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - Quilting Not only is the piece near perfect, the quilting—oh, the quilting! It is amazing! Those tiny stitches are stitched around each of the shapes and also on the diagonal, making a lattice design. All of the stitches are even. So pretty! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1598ff15-33f2-4b2c-911a-2770d5496df3/bow+tie+top+border.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - Top Border Unfortunately, there is a lot of wear on the top and bottom borders, as you can see in this picture. Although I am heartbroken by the damage what most likely came from wear and use, it will give me some material to use when repairing the large hole that is in this quilt. Looking at the silver lining on this one! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ecba3cb8-34b3-4e8d-ac07-868941ec9ea8/bow+tie+fabric+and+colors.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - The Fabric & Colors! It didn’t take long to determine that these fabrics are from the 1930s and 1940s. They are stunning! There are conversational prints as well as stripes, checks, and plaids. Within each block, there are three fabrics: the knot, the bow, and the background. The knot is consistent throughout with the same lavender fabric in all the bowties. The background is the same as the backing and borders—a crisp white fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/602b0979-a24a-499c-909e-33ea9132d2f3/bow+tie+damage.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - What Happened? It looks like a mouse or some other critter got to this quilt, doesn’t it? This makes me sad, but there are some positives, too! First, I believe I can repair this. YAY! That’s not always the case with damage. I am happy it can be mended. Second, it is on the edge, so even if I couldn’t repair it, I could save the majority of the quilt. Win, win! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/383c4c97-0abb-4819-9835-904c908ebf2f/bow+tie+backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Bow Tie Quilt - Backing The backing isn’t seamed anywhere. meaning it is one large piece of fabric. You can see some of the blocks (especially the turquoise ones) through the backing. This could be because of the thin blanket used as batting or could be from the wear and usage. This quilt is almost 100 years old, after all. There are also some stains and yellowing on this quilt. Again, this is to be expected. The fabric on the back is white and crisp. The hand-quilting shows up beautifully on the back of this quilt. I love it so much! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/mini-heart-quilt-from-scraps monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1f5eeb14-5c30-4e6f-b4a3-e83b8bcee4ab/Copy+of+Mini+Heart+Quilt+Thumbnail.jpg Blog - Mini Quilted Heart Wallhanging - Make it stand out For the full tutorial, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d9068fbc-5eed-4d21-a6e6-0afdb7802a25/Supply+List+Blog.jpg Blog - Mini Quilted Heart Wallhanging - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/31155383-091f-452e-b965-3ec3c47bfebb/press+to+other+side.jpg Blog - Mini Quilted Heart Wallhanging - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024-feburary-update monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cc77c20e-a56a-4384-924c-dc690676680e/February+Update.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: February Update - Make it stand out To watch the video for this, click HERE or on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bd4ebcc4-f2c5-4597-a781-a2e612992866/No+Dumping+Zone.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: February Update - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear This Month’s Score: 5/5 Much to my surprise, this sign actually worked! Most of the time, at least. I resisted the urge to dump things on my cutting table by simply looking at the sign. Who knew such a simple solution would have so many positive results? That’s the way it is sometimes, isn’t it? Glow: My cutting table stayed clean, I was able to use the whole thing when working on a project, and the entire room was less cluttered. Win, win, win. Grow: Even though I didn’t dump things on the table, I did tend to dump them elsewhere in my sewing room. I am going to work on this moving forward by cleaning up the space more and actually putting things away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1706557989463-3C7BAM8201PR7JN3UXYP/finished%21.jpg Blog - 2024 Habits: February Update - Habit 2: Finishing Projects This Month’s Score: 3/5 Although I didn’t actually finish any old projects, I did finish the projects I started this month, and to me, that is progress. In fact, this may be the only time in my YouTubing career that I actually did finish a project right away. If you want to see the video tutorial for this project, click here or on the photo. As for the older projects I wanted to finish, I didn’t work on any of them this month, BUT I did evaluate what I need to finish them and really thought about why I didn’t finish them. One of the reasons is the lack of batting. Solution? I order a big roll of batting from JoAnn Fabrics. Twenty yards is currently in transit to my house. Yay! Glow: I finished the projects I started in January: hourglass quilt and hourglass table runner. Yay! I did order batting, however, after assessing why I didn’t work on the projects. This helps! Grow: I didn’t finish any other backlog of projects. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-layer-cake-quilt-hourglass monthly 0.5 2025-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d9c4a43f-49f2-4f67-9a06-dbc30a5799e3/Just+one+Layer+cake+blog.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the full tutorial, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a41bd188-16f9-4eec-bd22-f2b832f432dd/fabrics+blog.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 1: Pick The Hourglass Fabrics The easiest way to do this is to just dig in. Open up the layer cake and choice two contrasting fabrics. Try not to overthink this. It is supposed to be fun! Just pick two opposites. Repeat until you have 21 sets (each set consisting of two contrasting 10” squares). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a80b8502-c36a-4485-8153-492beab08559/blog+double+photo.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 2: Match Sets Match up two contrasting fabrics to make 21 sets (42 divided by 2 = 21). You don’t have to worry about them being light and dark necessarily , just make sure they contrast. One set at a time, match right sides of fabrics together to prepare to make the half square triangles units. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cfc6e8f1-7cff-43e7-8238-cf8aac49405a/Draw+line+blog.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 3: Draw Center Line Take one of the contrasting sets (two 10” squares) and place them right sides together. Line the set up on a cutting mat with the lightest side facing up. Rotate the set 45 degrees so the points of the squares are on a line on the mat. Any line will do, just make sure both the top and bottom points are lined up. Using a long ruler, place the one edge of the ruler on the line. Draw a line corner to corner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e1ccad8-f5b0-468f-bae7-85f4bf3a5ad5/Draw+sew+lines.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 4: Draw 1/4” Lines for Sewing Next, move the ruler over 1/4” from the center line and draw at line. Do the same on the other side of the center line (see photo). Sew on the 1/4” lines (1/4” from the middle line on each side. Pin the squares together to make sure they do not shift. Sew on both of the 1/4” lines. Repeat with all 21 sets of squares. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1067a02c-65f4-4b31-900c-a7a5fed8709b/cut+line.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 5: Cut Squares Apart After both lines on each set are sewn 1/4” from the middle line, set your seams (this will get rid of those bubbles). If your fabric shifted some during the sewing process, don’t worry. We will be squaring everything up like always. Next, use your ruler and rotary cutter to cut on that middle line on each set. Open the half-square triangle unit and press to the dark side. Keep the sets together. Repeat on all the units. You should have 42 half-square triangles (21 matching sets). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5ce42d6b-2213-40f1-8ff2-59448fe9670f/match+up+HSTs+%281%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 6: Twist and Shout (Not Really Shout) :) Let’s make some hourglass blocks! Now that you have your HSTs sewn, match them up, right sides together, so that the center seam nests and the light is against the dark fabric and the dark is against the light fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bc803ced-1fcc-4fc2-9493-341d53efdcd4/Draw+lines.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 7; Draw Sewing Lines & Sew Just like in Step 2, you are going to line the set up on a cutting mat. Rotate the set 45 degrees so the non-sewn points of the squares are on a line on the mat and the seams are perpendicular to the points (see photo). Using a long ruler, place the one edge of the ruler on the line. Draw a line corner to corner. Next, measure over 1/4” and draw a line. Draw a line 1/4” on the other side of the center line (see photo). Pin the HSTs together so they do not shift much during sewing. Next, sew on both of the 1/4” lines just like before. Set your seams, cut on the line, and press the blocks to one side (it doesn’t matter which side). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/26bc83ee-6348-4873-9146-82d40a46ab4d/two+hourglass+blocks.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 8; Yay! Hourglass Blocks! We are almost finished making the blocks! Yay! Next, open up your hourglass blocks and press. If the block is a bit wonky, that’s okay! We are going to trim them up in this set. Right now, the blocks should measure approximately 9.5,” but since they are probably a bit wonky, we are going to square them up to 8.5.” Now let’s do some math. 8.5” divided by 2 = 4.25”. This is the number we want to remember because that is our center mark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5e74bd61-0f9e-4185-9cfe-41fcd8541e14/squaring+up+the+block.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 9; Squaring Up The Blocks Place your square ruler on the block. Line up the 4.25” mark (8.5” divided by 2 = 4.25”) on the intersection of your block. Make sure to measure from the top and the right side. Also make sure the 45 degree line on the ruler is on the 45 degree line on the block. Trim the right side and the top of your block. After trimming the right and top sides, lift your ruler and turn the block so that the upper right corner is in the bottom left position. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7d1f3047-012e-4108-88a8-4dc9c0a32437/turn+and+trim.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 9 Continued; Squaring Up The Blocks Next, line up the bottom and the left side of the block on the 8.5” lines. Also make sure the 45 degree line on the ruler is on the 45 degree line on the block. Trim the right side and the top of your block. You have successfully made your block! Yay! Repeat this process with all 20 remaining sets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8d64e85f-9d0c-4afa-acd7-66a5634e17be/layout.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 10: Layout Your Quilt Top To lay this out, arrange the hourglass blocks so they are opposites, one going up and down, the next going side to side, etc. Lay this out six hourglass blocks across and seven down. The finished quilt will measure 48” x 56", the perfect lap size quilt! Sandwich your quilt with a backing and batting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1b9d5e9a-7fa5-4ce2-bbfa-83cb70dcb417/quilt+as+desired.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt - Step 11: Quilt As Desired As you can see, I chose a simple straight-stitch quilting design on this one. I love how it accentuates the block design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1706557989463-3C7BAM8201PR7JN3UXYP/finished%21.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1706557999464-GX4I0D3FOCVQD73PTSI1/after+washing+and+drying.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1706558012663-GU7AC7L0SGYKBMC4KS3S/front+and+back.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1706558057526-15UOIE4CCS2WUXNGYZ6J/table+runner.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Hourglass Quilt https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-antique-scrap-quilt-four-patch monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/63ff454e-2dd8-458c-a94d-50191c59fc9a/Antique+Scrap+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image to watch the video or click here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f553f1ac-b7c6-4945-82c5-9e245ef73131/Full+Four+patch+quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Make it stand out What a beauty! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/175b480d-2822-40ab-bb57-ac69e5fa0c64/four+patch+blocks.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Blocks Oh, these are so cool! The maker used a mix of stripes, plaids, dots, and florals to create these hand-stitched blocks. In most of these blocks but not all, there are two fabrics in each—one set of light squares and one set of dark squares. In the blocks where the fabrics are different, the maker used the same color/tone to keep turn to the block design. All the blocks are in the same formation with the dark squares set the same direction, except for one block, which is turned. This, in my opinion, adds to the visual appeal of this quilt, giving it a cohesiveness in the layout. Although some fabrics are repeated, there is still a lot of variety to not be overly organized, if that makes sense :). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/29adef0f-6c05-46fc-870c-fc24a63fdd49/seminole+border.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Border I am pretty sure this border was added either later or by someone else or something. Here are the clues: The fabrics are different than the main body of the quilt (the four-patch parts). They are brighter and newer (1940s/1950s). However. the background fabric is the same as the sashing fabrics. What do you think? Was it made by the same maker? Different maker? Same maker at a different time? I would love to hear your thoughts on this! This border was made using a seminole technique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4ae7a6a7-ce5f-4a5a-925e-06ac3c01ea47/corner+stones.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Sashing and Corner Stones The blocks in this quilt are very scrappy, but the corner stones are made using the same large-scale quilt, adding to the scrappy feel. Because the maker used different sections of the the large-scale print, it looks like different fabric. What a wonderful thing we can add to our quilt-making practice! Measuring 2” wide (finished) the sashing strips are all made from the same beige heavier fabric. It is a corse fabric that reminds me of a light canvas. This makes me think it is feedsack fabric, but there aren’t any markings/prints that can confirm this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0fe6e106-2555-49b5-9b32-c1162ed5f088/quilting.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Quilting The quilting—oh, the quilting! It is just beautiful! The marker used two different quilting motifs, one for the body of the quilt and one for the borders. The body is quilted with a grid design, meticulously hand-stitched vertically and horizontally, like a quilted plaid pattern. The borders, however, are hand-stitched in a diagonal cross-hatch pattern that looks like lattice. The stitches are made with a beige thread. They aren’t super small, but they are even. So pretty! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a8fcee02-34eb-457b-9f49-71ecbb0facdc/backing.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Batting & Backing Surprisingly, there isn’t a batting in this quilt. Although I am not sure exactly why there isn’t, I can guess that is may be because of the weight. The quilt is HEAVY. Can you imagine how much it would weigh if there was batting in it? I can’t imagine washing it alone. The backing really highlights the wonderful quilting on this quilt. The backing is made up of two separate pieces and pieced (by hand!). I just love that! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d528815f-f155-41c9-9671-acdb9dc043a8/binding.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Antique Scrap Quilt - Binding Interestingly, the binding is the only part of the quilt that is done by machine, making me wonder if it was replaced or finished later. Another possibility is the maker decided to add the binding by machine. I really wish these quilts could talk. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-quilting-habits-2024 monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7edc4b83-5967-49dc-9f90-70241803eb8a/Five+Quilting+Goals+%282%29.jpg Blog - Five Quilting Habits - Make it stand out To watch this video, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bd4ebcc4-f2c5-4597-a781-a2e612992866/No+Dumping+Zone.jpg Blog - Five Quilting Habits - Habit 1: Keep My Cutting Table Clear Because my sewing room is connected to my kitchen, it is easy to just dump all kinds of stuff on my sewing table, from household paperwork such as mail to cleaning supplies and more. As you can imagine, many of these items will sit there, causing me to shuffle them around when I am ready to sew. This leads to me pushing stuff to the side to cut and create. No more! This year I will keep my cutting table clear and ready to go. I even made a sign to remind myself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/caae6bc0-cbb2-4e99-931e-e362e4ff61eb/finish+projects.jpg Blog - Five Quilting Habits - Habit 2: Finishing Projects I know this habit is going to be tricky for me. As a content creator, I am always thinking about my next project and get so excited to start it. I have a ton of unfinished projects because of this. Two examples come to mind and the videos for these projects can be seen here and here. I need to get these finished! As a content creator, however, I also feel it is my responsibility to make sure projects are finished and posted here on my blog. This year I am not only going to finish my projects from the past, I am also going to finish the projects I start in 2024. Period. It has to happen. Pray for me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/7427a935-2e72-4549-93b3-f6a5fa427134/fmq.jpg Blog - Five Quilting Habits - Habit 4: Learn to FMQ (Free Motion Quilt) On My Domestic Machine A few years ago I started developing this habit by practicing FMQ everyday, but for some reason, I stopped practicing. You can see the beautiful progress in this picture. I need to start practicing again. This year is the year! I am going to do it! I will make 2024 the year of learning to FMQ, or, ehhh, continue to learn, since I did learn some before. This will also help me establish my second habit of finishing projects, right? Right! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2023-wrap-up monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8ea633a3-0e27-4861-9568-7b6797014d0a/Jenny%E2%80%99s+Countdown+to+Christmas+%282%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Click on this image to see the latest video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fe136d1b-fa6f-4263-8d89-5249fbf0f224/_Running+Total+Day+25+Blog+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 Wrap Up! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/countdown-to-christmas-2023 monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5225e86c-c84a-445c-a81c-cbacfbaaa3ba/Website+Design.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Make it stand out Click on this image to see the latest video! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c0fce85e-fcc2-402d-bb4d-3ed442cc85da/Day+1.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 1: Sn-Ugly Sweater Charm Pack This year’s box started out with a great item—FABRIC! My favorite type of gift! I just love this! This charm pack is called Sn-Ugly Sweater (get it? Ugly Sweater but Snuggly Sweater?). It included (42) 5” squares of cotton fabric with two of each print (22 different prints). Many of these prints really do look like something you would see on an ugly sweater. So cute! Click here for the video for Day 1! Estimated Value: $11.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f50b66f8-5f35-4ca5-8527-2c1b8ba50549/Day+2.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 2: Ugly Sweater Wall Hanging Quilt Pattern, Lightweight Fusible Interfacing, & Ugly Sweater Template LOVE these items! The pattern is sooooo cute! I just had to make it right away! Here it is! Don’t you just love it? The ugly sweater template is adorable, too! Click here for the video for Day 2! Estimated Value: $17.00 (pattern: $10; interfacing: $2; & template: $5) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2541e076-ddbf-4c0e-aa69-117d3994b101/Day+3.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 3: Magic Pins Magic Pins! Have you tried these yet? They are great! The heads of these are flat (love that!) and are made of silicone, so they are heat resistant! Perfect for quilting, especially if you need to iron over them. Great item! There are 50 in this pack of pins. Click here for the video for Day 3! Estimated Value: $8.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d46ccd31-0102-4d6f-85d4-1efeec8ff07b/Day+5+Plates.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 4: Set of (4) 8” Quilt-Themed Plates Although this isn’t my favorite item, I know I am not going to love them all. They are cute, however, and as time went on, they are growing on me. They would be great on a wall or for snacks. I think I am going to use them as cookie plates as gifts this holiday season. Estimated Value: $12.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/da23f39c-f426-4150-b700-7c45dd8ff8c1/Blog+Update+on+Day+6.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 5: Fabric Twine Trees Pattern & Cones These are so cute! I can’t wait to try them! The instructions say to use fabric scraps to make twine and then wrap around the trees using hot glue. Love this item. Last year we also got a tree-making kit using embroidery. I am wondering if this will be a yearly tradition! Wouldn’t that be fun? Estimated Value: $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/94a33625-88b5-4109-bad7-8febb9533f9c/Blog++Day+6.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 6: Quilty Rolling Pin & Recipe Oh my goodness! Look at how cute this is! Whether you use it to emboss cookies or to display, it is just adorable! It is a beautiful wooden rolling pin that measures 8.5” with the handles and. approx. 4” without the handles. It has six different quilt designs on the barrel. So sweet! Love it! Now to make some cookies! Estimated Value: $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/df6f0725-7428-4992-8e6a-a46b7ea287b3/Kona+Cotton+Charm+Pack+Day+7.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 7: Kona Cotton Solids Charm Pack LOVE getting fabric! This one is a bit peculiar and has really piqued my interest. It only contains three colors of fabric. Hmmmm. I am thinking there is a project coming for this one! What do you think? Either way, I love fabric, so this is a win for me! Estimated Value: $11.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/46b1f05e-6d1d-48d7-8110-c9f5e34618c3/Pattern+%26+Batting.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 8: Table Runner Pattern & Poly-Therm Fleece I just love projects! This is perfect! I kind of thought there may be something coming, and I was right! I love when that happens! :) Check out my video for tomorrow (Day 9) to see the projects finished. As for a review on this pattern—it is REALLY cute. I love it! BUT there aren’t any pressing instructions including. Bummer. Also, the directions on the fleece suggest using two layers, and we only received enough for one layer. Bummer x2. Oh well! Overall, LOVE this one! Estimated Value: $10.00 (Pattern) & $7.00 (Fleece) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9c35ed6c-9452-4936-8ca5-aed906ea1116/Day+9.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 9: Rechargeable Clip Light This is a wonderful item! Not only is it in a great color (love the MSQC teal), it is a great item to have, especially since you can use it on the go. This light has three different settings and the charge lasts at least a few hours. Estimated Value: $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/28cdfb3c-91ef-4054-932c-c95ec6589d1c/Day+10.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 10: 2-Pack of Quilting-Themed Playing Cards These are so pretty! These high-quality playing cards feature Chuck the Duck as the joker (so cute) and beautiful images on the back and front of the cards. They are so nice! I also love the drawer-style box. This one is a good one! Estimated Value: $16.95 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f8531e26-ee19-4e0e-956f-4b366a4a988f/Day+11.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 11: Felt Bird Kit This felt bird kit is so cute! There are enough supplies in this kit to make four birds. I have made two so far. I love getting projects like this because they make try things I never would have done before, like this. I am hooked! I want to make more projects like this now. A new hobby, perhaps? Estimated Value: $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/907ff414-7cc3-43d5-ba82-cc47c22d90ea/iron+rest.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 12: Silicone Iron Rest This silicone iron rest is perfect for its intended purpose (to rest your iron) or as a decorative element in your sewing space. It is made of a durable silicone (super thick!). According to the package, it can “withstand heat up to 464 degrees Fahrenheit (240 degrees C).” It is a great item! Estimated Value: $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c50ff606-e85c-4ffd-9a13-fdac691038cb/sewing+edge.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 13: Sewing Edge This set of five sticky vinyl ledges attached to the bed of your machine to allow for an “edge” or sew guide. They are vinyl and reusable. Check out Marci Baker’s website for more information about these. Very cool! Estimated Value: $10.95 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1f0e9fb5-ac2a-4c82-8e20-af10906ba5c2/Charm+Pack+Blog+Picture.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 14: Charm Pack Love this bright and cheery charm pack! Look at those beautiful tropical colors! These fabrics are designed by Stephania Organes for Andover Fabrics. The collection is called Wandering Ways. It includes (42) 5” squares. There are two of most prints and three of a few, too. LOVE this! Estimated Value: $10.95 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/5f38a06f-60e2-4761-9a37-66bcf51a4a1d/Patchwork+Bag+Kit+BLOG.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 15: Patchwork Bag Kit This collection includes an adorable patchwork purse pattern, the purse handles, a magnetic closure, and two pieces of 14” x 14” light fusible batting. The charm pack from yesterday will work beautifully with this pattern! I am sure that is by design. Estimated Value: $27.00 (Pattern: $10.00; Fleece: $3.00; Handles: $10.00; Magnetic Snap: $4.00) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/78b166f2-da75-4af8-a92d-b65344efe659/Wet+It+Rags.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 16: (2) Wet It Cleaning Cloths These super-duper absorbent cleaning cloths are pretty cool. They are solid cloths when dry, but after wetting them, they become pliable and wonderful. Check out their website here for more information. Great item that I wasn’t sure about at first, but now I love them. Estimated Value: $11.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/949bf9ad-8e72-46a6-9b05-727691f2c3fd/Glue+and+Turner+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 17: Roxanne Glue Stick & Point Turner Although I haven’t tried the Roxanne brand of glue sticks, I do use other products from the Roxanne company, so I am excited to try this one. This contains .21 oz of glue. The point turner has four quilt blocks etched into it. It is very pretty! Estimated Value: $12.75 (Glue: $7.75; Point Turner: $5.00) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d9ab361f-fc0b-4a91-adaa-9b2e5780389e/Hexie+Dream+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 18: Hexie Dream Pillow Kit Today’s item is a pattern for a beautiful pillow, a elongated hexagon template, and 24 pre-cut double-sided fusible batting pieces. The project looks so pretty! I can’t wait to try this one! Estimated Value: $23.85 (Pattern: $10.00; Template: $7.00; precut hexagons: $6.85) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/06d99dbe-236c-49a0-ad42-2bc8ce7cf9c6/Variety+Puzzles.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 19: Variety Puzzle Pack & Pencils These puzzles all have a quilting theme. How fun is that? There are 72 pages of all different types of puzzles, including crosswords, logic puzzles, word searches, and more. Perfect item for cold winter nights, when you aren’t quilting, that is! Estimated Value: $10.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e8db4e07-f1ce-4681-bb47-35b00d393c33/Pin+cushion.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 20: Crystal Pincushion Kit This adorable crystal cup is the base for a pin cushion made with small pieces of fabric. It is super easy and fun to make! Estimated Value: $15.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e9f6d387-e555-483a-b00f-84a0591c5b71/Sticky+Note+Set.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 21: Sticky Note Box Set This quilting themed magnetic sticky noes stationery set contains four magnetic pads with 75 sheets each. It is a beautiful desk set for anyone who loves anything quilty! Estimated Value: $10.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f6d5df19-ff33-4393-992c-69bb89a51ff0/Quilter%27s+Sewing+Kit.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 22: Mini Travel Sewing Tin This adorable little kit includes a magnetic inner lid, three thread holders, mini rotary cutter, mini seam ripper, and a thimble. It is really cute! Estimated Value: $20.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/d44e3940-f7b7-4b64-b86f-314dbcf79659/Mug.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 23: Wax Relief Quilt-Themed Mug This blue mug is the companion to last year’s red mug. A yearly tradition, perhaps? On one side it has a quilt block and on the other side it has script that reads, “Quilters Are Piecemakers.” The mug is not dishwasher safe. Estimated Value: $18.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3f22e363-bbca-49d7-96b0-5b4c10c7a4d1/Book.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 24: Book: The Haunting of Quilter’s Square This book is written by Jenny’s daughter, Hillary. It is a mystery where Jenny is featured and the setting is in Hamilton, Missouri. It is fiction. Estimated Value: $12.99 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2eb0bee6-ad7e-4752-9a57-a4030c38fd68/Sewing+Project+Case.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Day 25: Sewing Project Case This great case is perfect for going to quilting retreats, classes, or more! It has plenty of storage space for your rotary cutter, cutting mat, scissors, and even blocks. It measures 14” x 14” and has a 3.5” bottom giving us lots of room for all of our quilting gear. Estimated Value: $35.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fe136d1b-fa6f-4263-8d89-5249fbf0f224/_Running+Total+Day+25+Blog+%281%29.jpg Blog - Jenny’s Countdown To Christmas 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/fabric-bowl-cozy monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a632d897-c8e0-43bf-9a35-64083d0148df/Bowl+Cozy+Tutorial+Thumbnail+%28Website%29.jpg Blog - Let’s Make A Bowl Cozy - Make it stand out To watch a full tutorial for this project, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b5c592b1-6155-409e-9e62-d9216981e92c/Bowl+Cozy+Supply+List.jpg Blog - Let’s Make A Bowl Cozy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/beea6a48-c308-4a95-ae5c-83c7d7d752dc/sewing+darts.jpg Blog - Let’s Make A Bowl Cozy - Step 3: Sewing the Darts Lower your stitch length on your machine to 2. One at a time, take the bowl pieces, and fold at the darts lining up edgesthe dart triangle, right sides together. Sew the darts starting at one end (it doesn’t matter which), backstitching at the beginning and the ended. Do this on all four darts on both bowl pieces. I do not trim the darts. Some people do to reduce the bulk. This is up to you. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-more-tips-for-making-scrap-quilts monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/bbc40cb2-c0fe-443b-a792-a8f2dfb71adb/5+more+tips+for+making+scrap+quilts+%28Website%29.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out To watch the video on this topic, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/45fabb41-86d0-496b-9e90-a993791f8291/Old+Quilt.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Tip 1: Embrace Variety: Scrap quilts give the perfect opportunity to bring together many different prints with different scales, patterns, and textures. When florals, dots, stripes, plaids, etc. are brought together in one quilt, the blocks just sparkle! Varying scale (the size of prints) can also make your scrap quilts pop. This is a wonderful way to add some excitement to your scrap quilts. This old scrap quilt is the perfect example of this. If you want to learn more about this quilt, click here for the Lessons from an Old Quilt video on this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a40f6420-7e89-43e5-8f86-85e08dc6620c/Large+print.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts Tip 2: Maximize Big Prints: Speaking of scale (see Tip 1), I like big prints and I cannot lie (I couldn’t resist!). Big prints are great in scrap quilts because you get more bang for your buck! You can pull different sections/colors to control the look you want simply by cutting those sections in a way that allows you to maximize the large-scale prints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a93dc869-bf6a-4b92-bc83-9b5a4423d194/back+of+fabric.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Tip 3: Use Both Side of Fabric: If a certain fabric doesn’t work, try flipping it over. I love doing this, and do it often, not just in scrap quilts, but in all quilts. Take, for example, my video on the $20 quilt. I didn’t like the navy blue fabric. It was too dark for the look I wanted. What did I do? I flipped it! I love how it goes with the rest of the quilt now. It almost looks like denim. This is especially useful in scrap quilts when you are working with tone, value, texture, and even scale in some cases. One of my viewers once said, “You pay for both sides of the fabric, You should use both sides.” I love that! It is so true! So, make sure to look at both sides of the fabric when planning your scrap quilt! It works! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/142a7c73-edba-4829-b9ec-5febb2304519/sample+blocks.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Tip 4; ALWAYS Make a Sample Block: I could make the argument that this is probably my best tip for all quilt makers, but it is especially true for scrap quilts. Making a sample block—even though it is an extra step—could save you time, energy, and fabric. A sample block allows you to see how a block is constructed; see how fabric(s)/colors work together; and allows you to determine the best placement for fabrics. These, of course, are only some of the benefits. There is a caveat, however. If you don’t use the sample block in the quilt, you will have a ton of sample blocks (stray blocks) in your stash. To me, it is worth it. It has saved me so much over the years. In the photo you can see allllll of my sample blocks I have made over the years. Yikes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1fa14d29-d30f-4815-9c75-882f7e2f1e2c/Full+House+Quilt+%28600+x+600+px%29.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Tip 5; Plan More Scrap Quilts While Making Scrap Quilts: Let’s just get this out of the way: it never ends. When we make quilts with scraps, we make more scraps for quilts. So why not optimize the experience? Plan your next scrap quilt that you will make from the scrap quilt you are making while making your scrap quilt! I know, I know—you will have to read that sentence a few times. :) Let me give you an example to help clarify what I mean. I made this house quilt (video to the tutorial here). As you can see, the roof units are flying geese. When I was making all of the flying geese units, I simply sewed an extra seam to get two half-square triangles from each flying geese unit. I will take those half-square triangles and use them in a new scrap quilt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/184bbd2f-7f78-4f9f-b97a-03a752f1ca59/coin+eye+spy.jpg Blog - 5 MORE Tips For Making Scrap Quilts BONUS Tip 6; Use Sashing as an Anchor: One of the best ways to create continuity in a scrap quilt—at least in my opinion—is to use the same color sashing strips. It makes the quilt look like it has some order. I have two examples of this. In the first one, the Coin I Spy Quilt (video here), I used a black sashing to offer an anchor in this otherwise busy quilt. In the second example, I also used the same sashing to create a balance with all the mixed matched blocks. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/easy-four-patch-quilt-tutorial-using-one-layer-cake monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f108e66d-b988-442d-a579-c580e452af92/Blog+Just+One+Layer+Cake+Easy+Four+Patch+Quilt+Blog+Photo.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the complete tutorial, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6ed63c1e-1738-46f4-a6b8-cf587159437e/lights+med+darks.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Step 1: Separate Light, Medium, & Dark Fabric Separate the layer cake into three piles: lights, mediums, and darks. Use a black and white photo or a red film called a Ruby Beholder to find the fabric color value, which is the level of light/dark fabrics in relationship to the other fabrics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3678032d-d290-4016-aea7-4b10d6b5725b/Lights+and+darks.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Once you have three piles, separate the medium fabrics to create two piles of 21 squares (21 light/mediums and 21 dark/mediums). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a7bc87bd-7933-408b-912f-cc8b6cf6b177/sew+sides.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Match and Sew the Right and Left Sides Match two squares together, one from each of your two piles, putting right sides together. Sew ¼” down both sides (right and left). Do this with all of the squares. You will have 21 units. Please note: If you are using flannel, I like to increase the seam allowance from ¼” to ⅜” because flannel tends to fray. I also lower my stitch length some. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e3e70ef-bc34-44cc-877a-5d3aba651b3f/cut.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Cut The Block With the seams you just sewed on the right and the left, line your ruler up on the 5” mark. Cut the unit in half. Press these units to the dark fabric. You will have 42 units (2 of each/21 sets). Note: For the next step, I like to keep the sets together when making each four-patch, but you can mix them up for a more scrappy version of this quilt. Cut the unit in half. Press the units open, with the seam allowance to either side or press open, if you’d like. You will have 42 four-patch blocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ec467a55-6933-4c80-96ba-1d058d28fb21/light+to+dark+and+dark+to+light.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Match Units Next, match the opposites together of each fabric set, right sides together. Match the dark side with the light side and the light side with the dark side. Because we pressed to the dark side, the seams will nest together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2bc15a23-21ce-4d5c-879b-3f3a3f705b97/sew+sides+%281%29.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Sew The Sides Turn the unit so the middle seam is horizontal. Sew ¼” down both sides (right and left). Do this with all of the squares. With the seams you just sewed on the left and right sides, line your ruler up on the 5” mark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e5dbcf2c-e66f-4a88-96df-079dea967acc/4.5+Mark.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Square Up Top and Right Sides Place your ruler so that the 4.5” mark is lined up with one quadrant of each four-patch. Trim top and right edges. Tip: Remove the scraps before removing the ruler. This allows you to cut again if something didn’t fully cut through while not having to try to align the ruler up exactly a second time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/66a587b6-cadf-4497-9d7a-f9baba6df4bb/9+Mark.jpg Blog - Easy Four-Patch Quilt - Squaring Up the Other Sides Lift the ruler and turn the block to the top right corner now is at the bottom left position. Line up the 9” mark on the left and bottom edges. Trim the top and right edges to square up the block. Do this for all 42 blocks. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/lessons-from-vintage-star-quilt monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/79e70a63-fef1-4677-9db0-011b663dd3f9/Vintage+Star+Quilt+2.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Make it stand out To watch the video for this quilt, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b42b14d0-5139-41ca-bfd6-5b288ab73d5b/Feedsack+Star+Quilt+Layout+blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Make it stand out Isn’t this cool! Talk about a controlled scrap quilt! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6f499962-5cce-4ff9-84ae-9b3743c235fe/Full+Quilt.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Make it stand out Look at those beautiful blocks! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c9b5a78b-5607-47ba-85c2-c27c49e474e8/salt+word+full+blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Feedsacks: There are feedsacks in this quilt! How do I know? JUST LOOK! Do you see it? That is the word SALT backwards! The maker turned feedsacks over to use them! Wow, wow, wow! Soooooo cool! There are many other examples of this in this quilt. Unfortunately, they do not photograph well, so you will just have to trust me on this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e1111118-990b-4420-a4d6-9f648e82336c/pencil+line+blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Quilting: You can see that the quilting lines were marked in pencil, and if you look closely, you can see the lines are under the quilting. But look! The maker either made a mistake or decided not to quilt on some of the marked lines after all. Again, these unquilted lines are throughout this quilt. The quilting is even, measuring six stitches per inch. The blue lines that you can see is the backing showing through. This isn’t damage on the front. Close-ups are hard sometimes. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6b9b05a1-c907-4041-97b1-64dd735562bb/batting+blog+.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Batting: This portion is temporarily hanging in front of a window. Don’t worry! I only had it up there to take the photo. As you can see, the cotton (I believe) batting is clumping. When it isn’t up to the light, you can feel this some, but not see it at all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/48c829f9-ff1e-4698-bd97-93098d3455a4/Spray+Paint.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1d941fb3-ea10-4997-b4c5-737641b4d71d/binding+blog.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Diamond Star Quilt - Binding: Some clues (and my gut) tell me the binding was replaced at some point because it was added by machine with a thick orange thread and because the fabric used is a thicker weight. This isn’t consistent with the maker’s style, in my opinion. If you have followed me for a while, you know I love to speculate about these old beauties! It just seems weird, is all. That said, the binding held this quilt together well, even if it is a bit weird. :) https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/five-tips-for-making-scrap-quilts monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e35fda05-130a-4a12-b137-317852087e64/5+tips+for+makign+scrap+quilts+%28Website%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - 5 Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out To watch this video for this, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6cbfc911-0499-45de-901b-5793371e0955/Rainbow+Quilt.jpg Blog - 5 Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out Rainbow Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b85b06f9-759e-4c35-9284-06d50f7b9cbc/fall+quilt+rule+background+%281%29.jpg Blog - 5 Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out Fall Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/946292e9-b7ea-44ca-acd6-47ccd1e6cc9e/Scrappy+Christmas+Quilt.jpg Blog - 5 Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out Christmas Quilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/e122b87e-e8e1-4709-8238-51b1b77ff29f/Scrap+Quilt+Black+and+White+Compare+%281%29.jpg Blog - 5 Tips For Making Scrap Quilts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/one-charm-pack-table-runner monthly 0.5 2024-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/be21ef22-a51f-4284-b6fa-bed9bfb0fb42/One+Charm+Pack+Table+Runner+%28Blog%29+%281280+x+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out To see the complete tutorial, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/3d68b80f-4224-4afb-a4bf-c1e9348668d9/Supply+List+%281%29.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2eef514f-b825-4610-b8db-e31d163cef48/Black+and+White+One+Charm+Pack+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/ecef679b-83d3-43bb-aecd-ccb946641fa2/Cut+Top+Layer.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/36a92fb7-ffc1-4414-81d0-d8cba4930b71/trim+down+%281%29.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/281ab1db-21e5-4de8-b809-841ba48e61cb/trim+down+2.jpg Blog - What Can We Make With One Charm Pack? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/vintage-bright-baby-quilt-patchwork monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/32abbd24-55c9-4409-8d2e-5b9f84d6ddb0/Copy+of+vintage+baby+quilt+thumbnail+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Lessons from an Old Patchwork Baby Quilt - Make it stand out For the full video, click on the image above or click HERE. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/seven-lies-quilters-tell monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2ae64f3e-bf4b-4488-a80c-9dd0293419e7/Photo+for+website+%281%29.jpg Blog - 7 Lies Quilters Tell - Make it stand out To watch the full video, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/96bea173-ad9d-437d-9a89-0f60760473ad/Fabric.jpg Blog - 7 Lies Quilters Tell - Make it stand out A small portion of my fabric collection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4e47f38a-7d88-4c63-b750-be3b0488e064/Scraps%21.jpg Blog - 7 Lies Quilters Tell - Make it stand out My secret scrap draw. Don’t tell anyone! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/465241eb-9ed3-42e4-aa25-23e4bcb08aed/Pumpkin+Project+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - 7 Lies Quilters Tell - Make it stand out My Pumpkin Kisses project that won’t be done by October. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/94b053ab-9fb7-414d-88f9-0282665fce9d/Messy+%28600+%C3%97+600+px%29.jpg Blog - 7 Lies Quilters Tell - Make it stand out Messy, Messy, Messy! Again, please don’t tell anyone! https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/5-holiday-gifts-to-sew monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/33f755ea-74eb-445d-a226-80f38558b446/i+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - 5 Holiday Gifts to Sew - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/just-one-layer-cake-quilt monthly 0.5 2025-04-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/fff036bf-1d1a-4932-acc6-1594fe8f809a/Me%21++%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Click on the image above for the full tutorial or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/09469048-8861-4160-a03d-761792c67066/one+layer+cake+quilt.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/cbfd00f5-b370-4659-a0ad-cc217ce7e658/Ruby+Beholder+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/33df48d6-31dd-4bdb-9dbf-6cfcb432bce8/6.5+with+bigger+ruler+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/68155eb3-382a-408b-b750-19930b2ede9d/Mix+them+up+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/30dbccdb-2522-411f-848e-09c2abe46c48/Cut+again+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/85ed765b-8dae-4d34-ba26-881a3fbaccb1/Swap+Again+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/75ac1d67-077a-4a03-bfb4-2207901772d1/9+inches+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/de6d26ab-0f60-4788-a1ad-5bafe23258cc/final+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Just One Layer Cake Quilt - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/make-your-own-layer-cakes monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/235887cd-d922-4adf-9317-ca5c0260dcf0/Blog+Cover+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Make Layer Cakes from Scraps - Make it stand out To watch the full video, click on the image above or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1e8b7ea7-82bf-4db6-935e-7d0a0f4caf9b/Scraps+to+Layer+Cakes.jpg Blog - Make Layer Cakes from Scraps - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/b64acacf-2cfd-42c0-a3bf-dba39116750f/Squares+finished+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Make Layer Cakes from Scraps - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/4953184e-3d61-48d5-8ef2-24b5e031686f/Sort+2+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Make Layer Cakes from Scraps - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/change-those-blades monthly 0.5 2025-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/41c877cf-17e2-4c40-81ea-e5831cef7094/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Click on the image above for the link to this video or click HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1acf6851-d0d8-4626-b119-8786dd4e0778/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out My Organization System https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/07b3b980-fb2d-4de6-8c1e-9e0ea89a9f31/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/86fe19d2-ba6b-46bb-a334-54014f9d94aa/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/0c33bd2d-a91b-4b8d-a342-170a8687ea03/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%282%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/6bb428d2-6093-4140-a260-1d08f62fb56e/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/95924ade-7525-4114-87c1-5e21d84db746/Untitled+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281280+%C3%97+720+px%29+%281%29.jpg Blog - Change Those Blades! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/stitch-and-flip-quilting monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/a9456c8e-1908-4425-9925-56d397bdf8db/Stitch+and+Flip+Crazy+Quilt+%281%29.jpg Blog - Stitch & Flip Quilting - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/welcome-new-readers monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://www.sewthedistance.com/blog/new-website monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://www.sewthedistance.com/home daily 1.0 2026-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2125f587-b2bd-4801-8a1f-848d1435cb27/BLOG+Lessons+from+Old+Super+Scrappy+Quilt+%282%29.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9536c5ae-63dd-446f-9a86-2dfc9232cdf5/Untitled+design.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/9e2d9c1a-4b61-48ea-9ea9-1479406c321c/Kris+ONeill+website+homepage.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/c580ae25-e1da-4cca-aa44-2b7b7b870471/Designer+or+Joann+Fabrics+%281000+%C3%97+563+px%29.jpg https://www.sewthedistance.com/about-me daily 0.75 2023-09-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/2d7a532b-d4bc-44a6-b85d-a6c379b2e1f8/About+Me.jpg https://www.sewthedistance.com/store daily 0.75 2023-10-09 https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/digital-patterns monthly 0.5 2025-01-31 https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/holiday-project-patterns monthly 0.5 2023-12-11 https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/precut-patterns monthly 0.5 2024-07-09 https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/sew-merry-scrappy-quilt-pattern monthly 0.5 2025-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/46b19224-e98a-4d03-9687-9a62c2a1c9f4/Sew+Merry+Quilt.jpg Store - Sew Merry Scrappy Quilt Pattern https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/ohio-star-quilt-block-pattern monthly 0.5 2025-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/8f944b70-8f9a-4e21-afe4-6264575826ae/Pattern+cover+%283%29.jpg Store - Ohio Star Quilt Block Pattern https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/roll-with-it-quilt-pattern monthly 0.5 2024-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1720533018080-PYEYNWZJRKY695WTVZ5X/Pattern+Cover+%281%29.jpg Store - Roll With It Jelly Roll Quilt Pattern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1720533023697-6IWHA5L8Q0JIOH2AWV35/Roll+with+it+quilt.jpg Store - Roll With It Jelly Roll Quilt Pattern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1720533035064-9TTB470V9U5MWV263BCS/Roll+with+it+quilt.png Store - Roll With It Jelly Roll Quilt Pattern https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/thats-a-wrap-holiday-pillow-pattern monthly 0.5 2024-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1702229569184-5ICBWKR37J0U2VKNM0RP/That%E2%80%99s+A+Wrap+Pillow.jpg Store - That's A Wrap Holiday Pillow Pattern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1702413357371-Z2EBIY5RQX0Y4BE1GM7G/pillow+%281%29.jpg Store - That's A Wrap Holiday Pillow Pattern https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/thats-a-wrap-quilt-pattern monthly 0.5 2025-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1702234797597-88TQHOE59WJPBVENQLPN/Gift+Block+Quilt+Pattern.jpg Store - That's A Wrap Quilt Pattern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/f9214908-f55c-4949-b981-8411289a93f9/Quilt.jpg Store - That's A Wrap Quilt Pattern https://www.sewthedistance.com/store/p/easy-one-layer-cake-four-patch-quilt-pattern monthly 0.5 2025-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/64e15db35e46d80e4f962965/1698608738393-DOAJ1MHM51HDGZTB5XPE/Store+Thumbnail+Easy+One+Layer+Cake+Quilt+Full+Quilt.jpg Store - Easy One Layer Cake Four-Patch Quilt Pattern