Problem Solved

After indulging in a little detective work I discovered the reason why it wasn't possible to make a comment on my blog.  Problem solved, and Fixed!!!

Completed!!

After many months of starting and stopping with the Gum Leaf quilt it is finally completed.  Choosing the border fabric was not as difficult as I originally thought ... two fabrics put their hand up for selection as I wandered along the bolts of fabric.

 Last night, when patience was beginning to wear thin [after all I had raked and wheelbarrowed ten barrows of litter ... coincidently gum leaves] as I was steaming along in fine style on quilting the outer border I hit a safety pin.  Yes, I know ... I should have removed it sooner, but [and there is always a but, or an excuse, or reason] I must have been exceeding the speed limit and reached it sooner than anticipated.  Well ... I broke the needle, which in itself is not a catastrophe.  However when I attempted to put in a new needle I just couldn't find the right place.  I tried, and tried,  Patience wore thinner by the second!  Determination was stronger. I had to give in whilst I dished up dinner, though eating was automatic as my mind was grappling with the needle situation.

After reading the Instruction Book [if all else fails read the instruction book!], I began to wonder if the sudden halt because of the broken needle had actually damaged a part.  One little piece I decided might be better if pulled down.  Nothing to be lost I thought, as if that didn't work it would mean a trip to the Sewing Machine Doctor, and I have more things to do this week than that.

Gingerly I eased down the little piece and lo ... and behold ... the needle fitted in.  And ... the machine worked.

Today I hand-stitched the binding ... Now the quilt adorns the couch, where, even if I say so myself, it looks grand.

Cat Quilt

The 'cat quilt' was begun last year long before the expected arrival of my latest grandson, but for a myriad of reasons, most of them inconsequential, it wasn't completed. However, these last few days I have been on a roll 'craft wise', and earlier this day I put the last stitch into the 'cat quilt'. It will be in the post next time we go into town and winging its way to New Zealand.

A Home amongst the gum trees

After a few days of intensive needleturn applique, and machining blocks together, I have now completed the Gum Leaf quilt top. This photo was taken outdoors in the bright sunlight, so the colours are rather dull [we haven't had any rain worth calling rain in WA for absolutely months].

I am not sure what border to put on ... will sleep on that for a night, as I find that the answer usually is very evident in the morning.

This quilt top has taken quite some time, mainly because I became side-tracked by other projects, but suddenly enthusiasm returned, and I bowled ahead quickly. The second photo, showing a portion of the quilt top, was taken indoors ... it has better colour.

One cot quilt left to complete; then I can make a beginning of The Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt ... I have the book and CD ... I am very enthusiastic!! But, and I blame this on my Mother who always insisted one job be completed before another begun, I needed to have a clear conscience that I had completed other tasks!

Happy Mothers Day!

A productive weekend

Two weeks ago we received important mail ... a notice advising that the electricity would be off, for maintenance, on Sunday 1st May, from 9.00am until 3.00pm. What better reason not to even think of washing, ironing, or any housework involving electrical goods ... not that I bother chores on a Sunday anyway. I needed a Project, a project that wouldn't take weeks to complete.

Last week I downloaded a cute pattern from here:

http://tozzscorner.blogspot.com/2011/04/happy-easter-and-things-we-love-bom.html

and decided to fill in some of the weekend stitching. It didn't take all that long, and still feeling like stitching I looked through my files for suitable companions. I had already decided to make these stitcheries into a mug rug set ... a gift for whom I have not as yet decided.

I am pleased with the results; the mug rugs are stashed away in my 'gift box' until I gain inspiration as to whom shall be the recipient.

Time to Vote

A talented member of our Craft Forum has entered a quilt in a competition. This quilt is soooo cool and smart looking it deserves your vote!

'Tis OK ... I have already voted, but a few more, or a lot more, would be most appreciated.

How to vote?

"If you have a moment, I'd really love your vote for Fresh Diamonds. Here is the link to the page:

http://quiltinggallery.com/2011/04/29/vote-now-quilts-charms/

Above is a quote from the Forum placed by Samelia's Mum, the gorgeous quilter ... so, if you have a moment, Samelia's Mum would truly appreciate your vote.

Good luck Samelia's Mum!!