Fun with Feathers--In Color!

I have been having fun with my free-motion quilting techniques.  In order to improve your machine quilting you have to practice!  I was focusing on different kinds of feathers for my Fun with Feathers class.

First, I practiced creating feathers on paper. 

Some of my practice feathers on paper.

 

More practice on paper!

These drawings then became a “pattern” or guide for me to use when practicing with my sewing machine.

I started with a blank quilt sandwich, and then free-motion quilted my feathers using my sewing machine.

Lower your feed dogs and doodle with thread.

The feathers all stitched out.

I had so much fun making the feathers—the mixed media artist in me couldn’t help but coloring them in with Derwent Inktense water-soluble ink pencils!

Then I diluted and mixed the colors using plain water and a paint brush. 

Fun with Feathers--In Color!

What do you think?  Hopefully, this inspired you to doodle some feathers with your sewing machine!

Spring is in the Air!

Spring always means the start of new things.  It has me motivated to try some new things! 

Classes are full and fun!  This last Saturday, I was teaching how to create a sewing organizer using the serger.  We had a full class, and I had lots of fun. (I hope they did also!!)

Serge Ahead 2 at Zede's Sewing Studio

Serge Ahead 2 at Zede's Sewing Studio

Then on Saturday afternoon, I was able to participate in the Fayette Fun Fest at Fayette, Missouri.  My husband and I set up a booth that had some of my work for sale. 

Hand painted peacock on silk, and several of my photos transferred onto fabric then quilted.

A felted piece, a fun apron, a painted and embellished wild fire, and my natural bridge photo quilt.

I was really excited to release several patterns that I have been working on.  

I hope to share more with you later on the patterns. 

In all it has been a wonderful start to spring.  I can’t wait to see what else will spring up!

Surface Techniques

I just wanted to give you a heads up--this Tuesday I will be teaching a class that explores different surface techniques with your sewing machine.  We will be couching a variety of items, layering different substances, and attaching buttons.  Then on Saturday we will use this piece for the cover of a notebook to store all your inspirations in!  Love to see you at Zede's Sewing Studio, in Columbia, MO.

This is my sample for the class.

Enjoy your day, Linda B

It's Time to Share

I have been having so much fun in the classroom teaching, I thought that I would share with you my stained glass applique pumpkin pattern. 

Click here for the pattern

We use fusible black bias tape to finish the edges, but the pattern can easily be done as a regular applique.  
Have fun creating!  Linda B.

Stained Glass Applique--Making a Bold Statement

I have been busy getting ready for my stained glass applique class.  We will be using my pumpkin pattern to develop our skills with fusible bias tape. 

I like to include other samples in my class to motivate my students.  This pattern is from Gretchen K. Hudock's book: Quick Quilts Using Quick Bias.
It will be tomorrow at Zede's Sewing Studio.  Class information is available at www.sewhere.com.

Exploring different avenues of quilting,  Linda B.

Stash Busting Project

On Saturday, October 27th, I will be teaching how to make a ruffled pillowcase with your serger.  It is a great project to help reduce your stash if storage is an issue.  In addition to using a ruffling or gathering foot for your serger, I will demonstrate how to use decorative non-needle threads to finish off the ruffle for a one of a kind project.

You will be able to find me there Saturday, October 27th, at Zede's Sewing Studio.  Class sign-up info can be found at www.sewhere.com .
Sewing along, Linda