Monthly Archives: April 2025

Store It in Style!

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I am in the process of organizing my sewing room. Aren’t we all??? These new baskets from Around the Bobbin are just the ticket.

The back of the pattern has an image showing the baskets when they are folded flat. I can’t imagine a time when they won’t be filled with everything imaginable, but one can dream – and store them efficiently.

The pattern includes three sizes. The smallest size can be made with fat eighths. The other two sizes can be made with coordinating fat quarters – and who doesn’t have a stash of those???

The baskets maintain their shape because they are stabilized with a fusible foam. This package by Bosal is 18″ x 58″ wide, enough to make at least 2 of each basket. (You already know you will be making more than one!)

The pattern will begin shipping in May. This would be a great craft day for you and a group of friends! Why not make a set for your next barbecue? Napkins, plastic silverware, and condiments will never look this good!

A ‘Fairy’ Good Idea

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Quilts for children and babies are something that most quilters LOVE to make for their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  Well, we’ve got an entire display idea, for shops, of a great gift suggestion that many might find ‘fairy’ appealing.  How about quilts, dress-up clothes, and even a jacket?! All for children and all about fairies.

Riley Blake’s ‘Thimblelina and the Sewing Fairies’ line makes easy work of finding the perfect fabric for ‘all the things’.  Although not released until October, it gives you plenty of time to plan.

*Thimbelina & the Sewing Fairies Handsewn Patchwork Multi*

This vibrant fabric showcases a delightful patchwork design inspired by the whimsical world of Thimbelina and the Sewing Fairies. It is a good representation of the fabrics in the line, but in one great piece. The pattern features a variety of squares, each adorned with charming illustrations of fairies, sewing tools, and floral motifs.

Imagine the darling piece above in a quilted jacket or twirly skirt. No need for patchwork because it is all done for you. Just quilt the whole cloth for the jacket and sew the tiers together for the skirt.

That’s just a start. With the entire line, Thimbelina and The Sewing Fairies, or at least a few more pieces, you can make these simple dress-up costumes that will surely make you Queen of the Forest.

Thoughtfully sized, the crown, wings, and wand are easy to craft, while the adjustable skirt ensures a great fit for growing kids. The pattern includes detailed instructions for using Peltex stabilizer, fusible fleece, and ribbon, ensuring a sturdy and polished finish. 

The hat, designed for comfort and structure, incorporates fusible fleece and offers endless customization possibilities. 

*Available in October- order now

Even my adult self kinda wants this one!

Home Sweet Home in a Nutshell

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Home Sweet Home is Bonnie Sullivan’s new block of the month combining wool appliques on a flannel background. Who doesn’t love this combination??? This is a 10 month program. And, check out the names – they are as cute as the designs!

Pattern 2519 includes the complete yardage requirements for the entire quilt. The finishing directions are included with each pattern. The complete quilt is shown on the back of the pattern.

Bonnie chose this subtle stripe as the background for this project. Our buyer is ordering more bolts as we speak!

The patterns for this Block Of the Month will be shipping to stores next month so if you want in on the fun, let your quilt shop know so they can order the patterns! They will arrive just in time for some summer stitchin’!

Add a Little Sparkle…

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Who doesn’t love Valdani? And now they are releasing an assortment of 8 or 12 weight threads with a strand of silver thread entwined with stunning colors. Just look at that sparkle!

When I was a child, I loved the variegated yarns by Red Heart. This collection makes my heart flutter just like those golden days.

They are available in collections or individual spools.

8 WEIGHT

12 WEIGHT

These will be shipping next month and may be just the ticket to entice a child into handwork. Or buy a ball or collection to satisfy that child that still loves those Red Heart yarns…

Quilt Superblooms this Summer

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I love the way these latest projects by Robin Pickens combines stunning large floral prints with pieced flowers and quilt blocks. The pieced blocks and flowers pop next to the beautiful prints and makes the whole project manageable. An entire quilt of all of these mini blocks would be a little intimidating, even for those like me who like to work in mini.

Gathering Wildflowers uses a large width-of-fabric print as a colorful accent to sweet floral quilt blocks. This pattern makes a 53″ x 57″ wall/lap sized quilt. Traditional patchwork piecing is used with HST, flying geese and snowball corners. The dark blue is stunning. The white screams Spring and Summer.


Fiona’s Daisy Chain is an Irish chain quilt with added large focal print in the spaces between the chain piecing. Play with variations of backgrounds in the chain to get the rows of daisy flowers to pop out. The fabrics chosen for the nine-patches gives the look of daisies.

Centerpieced is a pattern for a quilted table runner. Once again, Robin showcases miniature blocks made with a charm pack of 5″ squares that run down the center of this table runner. Sides of the runner use large width-of-fabric print for the borders. Robin is also known for stunning cross-stitch designs. I think I would like to cross-stitch the mini blocks. The different textures would be amazing!

Turn Signal uses a Jelly Roll of 2 1/2″ x width-of-fabric strips with large florals from her Superbloom line. The “turn” of lines makes for a dynamic and striking quilt and a chance to highlight your favorite big prints on the ends.

These patterns will start shipping next month so check with your local quilt shop to see if they can order them for you!

Plastic – Not Just Bad for Birds

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Plastic is bad for your quilts! When it comes to storage, so many put their quilt overflow in plastic bins or bags. It sure looks organized and safe, doesn’t it? Let me tell you why that may not be true.

Plastic doesn’t breathe. Because of this, if there is ANY moisture left on your quilt when you store it in plastic, or if moisture gets in, your quilt could mold. To be safe, here are some GOOD storage ideas from your favorite distributor- Checker. (notice the subliminal message I gave you there?)

This Quilt Storage Bag from Modern Sew is a good idea. It easily fits 2 double size quilts, and they feature a transparent front panel for easy identification, strong double-zippers, heavy-duty handles, and high-quality breathable material. Additionally, they can be folded away when not in use, making them an ideal space-saving storage solution for closets and shelves.

Remember when you took your wedding dress to a special place that put it in a special box to ensure that it wouldn’t get damaged while in storage? Remember how you thought you better preserve it so that your daughters could wear it on their wedding day because it obviously is a way better dress than what they will find 20 or more years in the future? Remember the day that you realized you were delusional? I digress. My point here is that now you can buy that special box without going to the special place to get it. Although Checker, your favorite distributor, is a pretty special place.

Here it is! That box! The Prop-It Acid Free Quilt/Textile Storage Box from S.A. Richards Inc. It comes in 4 sizes and is the perfect solution to quilt storage. It also includes 24 sheets of 20 x 30 acid-free tissue to pad the folds of stored items, preventing creasing. Another Bonus… Now you can store your daughter’s wedding dress so her daughter can wear it on her wedding day!

Take Your Quilting to the Barn!

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Summer is the perfect time for making barn quilts. Outdoor painting, where there’s lots of room, can turn this into a family project!

The Barn Quilt Manual by Sheila Sinclair Snyder of License to Quilt is a 100 page instruction manual with complete instructions on “how to” make a Barn Quilt. Gather the supplies from the thorough list which describes each item with detailed pictures. Choose from over 75 full color quilt block patterns. The patterns are all designed to fit a square board, 2 foot x 2 foot, and can easily be transposed to other square dimensions. Have fun choosing a color scheme, then hang your Barn Quilt outdoors for many years of enjoyment.

Make one for yourself, and once you see how fun it is, why not host a party? Or get the entire family involved and make several for Christmas gifts. With 75 blocks to choose from, it will be easy to choose the perfect block for each recipient. The book will be shipping in June, in plenty time for summer fun. Why not ask your local quilt shop to order you a copy today?

Quilt Jackets! Need I Say More?

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I have been making quilt jackets for over a year now and they are ALWAYS noticed by people everywhere I go. Even my kids requested and received them. They are in their 20’s. There are so many different patterns and styles out there- a couple of Instagrammers have been selling them for $1000! Even if you have never sewn garments, most of the jackets are ‘sew’ easy to make and they are usually oversized so that fit isn’t a huge issue. Remember that you can go to Instagram and #hashtag the pattern you are considering, and you will likely see a lot of pictures of that jacket made in many different ways. It will give you a good idea of whether you like it or not. One of my favorites is the Tamarack Jacket from Grainline Studio. There are sizes from 0-30 so you will surely find your size.

This one fits a little closer than others, so you might want to size up. Although it’s shown here in a solid quilted fabric, it can be made using a quilt- just cut the pieces, sew,  and bind. No need for a separate lining because your quilt is already lined!

I haven’t made the Laura Jacket by Melly and Me yet, but I sure like the simple design. It is similar to the ones I have made, but mine are closer to waist length, and they have a hood. Both are easy adjustments to this jacket.

To make comfy, fashionable living even more fun, make a mommy and me match for a little one. Melly and Me has also designed this Tic Tac Toe pattern for children in sizes from 3-8.

You must have a quilt or two that you don’t use, or don’t love, that you could turn into a jacket. Make it useful. You’ll be surprised at how much you love it.

You might think that we could leave the men out of this discussion, BUT NO! I am here to tell you that I have gotten more compliments from stylish young men (20 something’s) than anyone. Weird right? The more colorful the better. So why not make a man in your life the Beachcomber Jacket from Friday Pattern Company? You would have to make some adjustments to this one if using an already finished quilt but MAN! You would be a superstar. I’m pretty sure this will be my next make.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

 In the meantime, here are some examples of Men’s Quilted Jackets. It takes a special man.

Perfect Family Craft Day Projects

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Summer means quality time with family and friends and the perfect time to introduce them to your favorite hobby! All of these projects can easily be “kitted” and the perfect activity for a rainy day at the beach.

FABRIC PUMPKINS

This beginner-friendly fabric pumpkin adds a charming handmade touch to your home! The pattern includes four sizes, and you can easily create more by enlarging the templates.
These eco-friendly pumpkins bring cozy, seasonal vibes and can be enjoyed year-round—creating your own fabric pumpkin patch at home! Warning: Once you make one, you won’t be able to stop—you’ll want to make more for your loved ones ( or teach them how to make their own!

CRISS CROSS POUCH SET

Store your favorite essentials in style with this versatile bag, available in FOUR sizes!

This patchwork lover friendly project is a great way to use up your favorite fabric scraps and can be finished in an evening. The pattern includes clear instructions, full-color step-by-step photos, and a bag template. Plus, a YouTube video QR code is included for extra guidance!

WEEKEND SLING BAG

You can never have too many sling bags, and this Flying Geese Sling Bag will be your perfect companion wherever you go! Learn Minki Kim’s Quilt As You Go flying geese method or use your favorite technique to make it your own. And, yes, there is a YouTube video to make it oh sew easy!

Check out these and other patterns by Minki Kim. Her newest releases will be arriving in shops the beginning of June, just in time for Summer fun!

Be Hoppy this Easter

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Definition of Hoppy: To jump with joy, to bounce excitedly.

Easter is more than easter eggs, bunnies, and candy. It is a time to remember why we are all here. A time for joy and renewal and love. It is a time to be ‘Hoppy’! So, let’s be hoppy together with this collection of joyful Easter Bunny patterns that will renew your homes décor and fill your friends and family with love.

First, you will need some table runners to adorn your table or one of someone you love. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to gift one of these to the hostess of your Easter dinner? Bunny Trail Table Runner by The Tipsy Needle and Easter Bunnies Runner by Patchabilities, Inc. What joy and hoppiness you will bring.

Next, think of how dying Easter eggs with your children or grandchildren might renew your spirit and fill them with so much hoppiness. Make them an apron to wear to avoid getting dye on their clothes, and you will make mom and dad hoppy too. This one, ‘Fun Friends’ by Cotton Ginnys is perfect!

For the younger kids, how about a stuffy? ‘Easter Bunny Buddies’ by Funky Friends Factory is so much fun. Make it in polka dots or their favorite color. They will surely feel the love and demonstrate their hoppiness.

Lastly, imagine your home filled with smiling, hoppy faces enjoying all that Easter brings. You want to hang on to those feelings. So, make yourself a quilt. An ‘Easter Egg Hunt’ quilt by Laugh yourself into stitches. In Easter traditions, eggs symbolize new life, rebirth, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What better way to remind yourself of the JOY, RENEWAL, and LOVE that Easter brings.

Hippity, Hoppity, Easters on its way! Better hurry and get started on these great patterns.