Fredericton Quilters' Guild

Workshop fun... One done, one to come...

2012-01-27T13:47:00.003-04:00

Where does the time go? January is almost over and our first meeting and workshop of the new year are already behind us. Sande Gunning of River Gallery spent a day with 11 lucky members last weekend, teaching them how to do felted scarves of wool and silk. Here you can see Sande demo-ing the felting process. I hear they worked hard for their beautiful scarves! Thanks Sande for a great day!

Lap quilt - 48" x 64" before borders

Our next workshop, on Feb. 25th, still has some openings. It will be a Scrap Quilt project with yours truly. I have done a lap quilt, (measuring 48"x64" before borders), but there are also smaller options (table centre or table runner, pillow front, totebag front....) and as well several design options for the block. (Of course if you want to make a bed-size quilt, you can do that too!)The block unit is very quick and easy to make, and with a few short seams, you get two units at once. There is no cutting of triangles or sewing of bias edges- all pieces are cut square or rectangular. Most pieces are cut 2.5" wide, so if you have "leftovers" from jelly rolls or Bali Pops, this is a great way to use them up! I will also be giving some useful info on choosing fabrics for scrap quilts, as well as a number of tips to help you perfect your piecing skills. Why don't you plan to join us? We're going to have lots of fun! You will want to get most of your cutting done before the class, so don't wait until our February meeting to sign up - give Ann Price or myself a call today and we'll get the Supply Sheet and cutting instructions to you.

Table Centre - 20" sq. Block variation with Half Sq. Triangles

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T23:52:00.001-04:00

Christmas is only a few short days away now. Hopefully your quilting projects are all finished, the last stitches sewn and your sewing space is all tidied up! If so, you're ahead of me. My projects are done, but the tidying isn't! Hopefully Santa won't peek in that room!

Our Christmas Social was such a lovely evening. The special music provided by a talented quartet from Elm City Echoes was so entertaining, giving us wonderful harmonies and laughter too! It was so nice to have time to just chat and "visit" with other members, something that there never seems to be enough time for at our busy meetings. Kudos to the Program Committee for organizing such a wonderful evening. I thoroughly enjoyed the stories of Christmases past by members Mary Brown, Anne Ouellette, Kathleen DeTulleo and Ann Price. How lovely to hear about Christmas traditions in other families and areas. There seems to always be a common denominator though- being together with family and friends appears to be the most important part of the holidays, no matter where you are. The evening ended with a super Show and Tell. It's obvious everyone has been very busy getting projects finished up for Christmas, whether meant as gifts or not. The photos have been added to our Show and Tell Gallery.

I am so grateful for all my wonderful friends and "quilting sisters" at FQG - you have all enriched my life. No doubt you agree with me - we are indeed fortunate to have such a wonderful group.
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and good health and happiness in the New Year - and, of course- lots more time for quilting!! See you in 2012.

December Reminders

2011-12-01T23:54:00.000-04:00

It's December 1st!! Wow- where did November go? The days are flying by, and like me you are probably at your machine trying to get quilts finished and gifts made. I wish I could find a few more hours in each day for us all.... wouldn't that be nice?

First of all, don't forget that our Christmas Social is coming right up on Dec. 6th at 6:30. Note the earlier start time... I hope to see everyone there, it's such a nice opportunity to share some Christmas spirit with friends, and have time to chat and socialize a bit. Don't forget to bring along your Christmas Show and Tell items!

Tomorrow, Friday Dec. 2, is the Country Crafts and Curtains "Retreat" from 1p.m. - 8p.m. at the Marysville Heritage Centre, 11 McGloin St. in Marysville. Take your machine and sew for the day, drop in to shop, or just to say Hi! There is a Potluck at suppertime too!

If you still have shopping to do for someone special on your list, remember Sunday is the only day for the Christmas Choice Craft Sale at UNB's Memorial Hall (9 Bailey Drive) from noon until 4p.m. This weekend is also the 37th annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Market at the Capital Exhibit Centre on the Frex grounds. Stop by and say Hi to Kathy Tidswell... The hours are Friday noon - 9p.m., Saturday 10a.m - 6p.m. and Sunday noon - 5p.m.

Have you given some serious thought to attending Quilt Canada 2012 in Halifax in the spring? Our last newsletter had lots of info listed, or you can find it here on the CQA/ACC website. Also check out the Quilt Canada Blog here for updates and lots of exciting news re. the Conference. Registration is now open for day students - ie. signing up for a class or two, without being a full delegate. This annual event will likely not be back in the Maritimes for a while, so now is your chance to take it in. Halifax is an easy drive now with good highway all the way. And if you are not already a CQA member, this year would be a great year to join!! Why not put a CQA membership on your Christmas Wish List? Join now and start planning that Halifax trip!!

I recently received info on a 10 day tour to Ireland that includes the International Quilt Festival of Ireland in Galway. The dates are June 5th- 15th, 2012 and departure is from Halifax.You can view more details by clicking here. What a fun trip that would be...

Successful "Fun Day"...

2011-11-20T11:34:00.000-04:00

If you were not at the Guild "Fun Day" yesterday, you missed a good time!! A good number of members turned up to share a day together; a few worked on their own projects, the rest of us happily sewed the day away on one of the five projects presented. Lots got accomplished and everyone left with a smile on their face. Some worked on table runners Christmas-y and otherwise, snowmen, strip tubed and pieced blocks.... all were presented, demonstrated and notes given so we could do them later if not then. We even got a cute little fast and easy stocking stuffer /gift idea. There were door
prizes and yummy treats....What a great day!! Thanks to the Workshop Committee for putting this day together and offering such a wonderful variety of projects and ideas. There may be another such day offered in the New Year- why not plan now to attend? It's a great day to sew with friends and also get acquainted with other members you may not know well... What more could you ask for? You know what they say- any day spent sewing is a GOOD day....

Meeting Time Again

2011-11-14T23:58:00.003-04:00

It's time again for our monthly meeting. Don't forget to bring your list for the UFO Challenge- unfinished projects and new projects you would like to complete this year. I have my list all ready.. and it's long!! Maybe this Challenge will spur me on to get moving and whittle down the list. That's the whole purpose, after all...
Jean Burtt will be anxious to collect more quilts for babies at the DECH . It's not too late to turn yours in. Remember backs must be flannel, and all fabrics must be prewashed. It doesn't take long to whip up something that's only 18" x 24" and it's a great opportunity to try out a new pattern or colour combination.
Of course Christmas placemats will be accepted at this meeting too, as well as at the December Christmas Social. They should be approximately 12" x 16". The Meals on Wheels recipients are certainly cheered by these colourful mats with their meals over the holidays.

See you tomorrow evening! Remember your mug, your nametag, any library books you have out, your Show and Tell items and why not take a minute to speak to a new member, or someone you don't know well? It doesn't take long to make a new friend....

The Ladies with the Curves!

2011-11-03T00:04:00.000-03:00

Our October meeting program was great- we learned a lot about sewing curves. Although a daunting prospect to some, I'm sure we all left with much more confidence for tackling curved seams. A big Thank You to the five "presenters' - Gail Butts, Jean Ketch, Gail Mitchell, Linda Glassford and Donna Young. Among other things, we learned how to sew a basic curve, how to add piping to a curve, how to "face" a curve so it could be appliquéd, how to use glue basting to sew a circle into a circular opening, and how to use the curved two patch system. Here are a few photos, if you missed the meeting.

I will soon be posting some reminders for our November meeting, so come back soon for the details on 1. our UFO Challenge, 2. Christmas placemats for Meals on Wheels, and 3. our continuing Community projects - due at Nov. meeting: quilts for babies. See guidelines here.

Off to Moncton You Should Go!!

2011-10-21T22:52:00.004-03:00

I am just home this evening from Moncton where I thoroughly enjoyed a visit to the Greater Moncton Guild's 25th Anniversary Show. These girls have outdone themselves! What a lovely show- well worth the trip to Moncton, I assure you. It's going to be a lovely weekend, weather-wise. Why not take a little road trip and take in the Show? It's open Saturday from 10-5 and Sunday from 12-4, and can be found at the Lion's Club at 55 Mark Avenue. If you know where the Fabric Cupboard is just off Collishaw, well Mark Ave. is just a block away, running off Collishaw, almost through to Mountain Road.
Here are a few photos to tempt you.... You can see more photos on my personal blog here, here here and
here.

1st place winner Art Quilt and Best in Show, "Fundy Mermaid" by Nancy Elaschuk

Detail of "Fundy Mermaid"


Winner of Judge's Choice, Whole Cloth quilt by Carolyn Mitton

1st Place winner, Guild Challenge. "Beacon of Light" by Nancy Elaschuk

"Happy Hallowe'en" by Joanne Bourque

1st Place, Large Pieced. "Ocean View" by Bridget Daly

1st Place Small Applique. "Butterfly Ballet" by Kim Larracy

September Meeting and Upcoming Workshop

2011-10-05T12:20:00.006-03:00

Sue with double prizewinner "Baltimore Bunnies"

Our first meeting is behind us, and it's really starting to feel like Fall. Thanks so much to Sue McEachern of Kennebecasis Valley QG for sharing many of her beautiful quilts with us for the September program. Sue does wonderful applique and her hand-quilting is exceptional. Tiny even stitches had us all admiring her prize-winning work. Here are a few photos of several of Sue's quilts, for those of you who missed the meeting. Next month's meeting will have us in "stations" to learn about curved piecing. It's bound to be a great program and I'm sure we'll all pick up some tips and perhaps "new to us" techniques.

Sue showing us some hand quilting tips

Detail of Baltimore Bunnies

Thanks to all those who brought projects to share with us during September's Show and Tell. I don't always catch the names of each quilt, and sometimes I'm not even sure of the makers, so if there is no name and/or title under your work in our Show and Tell Gallery, please get in touch and supply me with the info. Thanks . Our gallery is now set up so that the most recent Show and Tell items will be added at the top, so you won't have to scroll to the bottom.

There are still spots available in our upcoming workshop on October 22. Former FQG member Cathy Hachey will be teaching Connecting Hearts. Don't be intimidated by the small pieces - there are no matching seams and this can be easily done with strip piecing, chain piecing and a flip and sew method using a grid. Get in touch with Jean Ketch of the Workshop Committee if you'd like to join us for this fun-filled class. It looks like a great project and I'm sure Cathy will have lots of tips for us.

Community Projects for 2011-2012.

2011-09-15T13:26:00.002-03:00

We will soon be back at our Guild activities for the year. I hope you are all coming back from the summer rested and rejuvenated, and ready to plunge into Guild activities. We are taking a slightly different approach to Community projects this year. Jean has decided to choose a "theme" so for this Guild year, it will be "The Year of the Child". We will "divide" the year into three sections - Babies, Children and Teens.

For September and October, we will focus on quilts for babies and the neonatal unit. These should be sized 18" x 24" and backed with good quality flannel. They must be 100% cotton, including the batting, and for safety reasons, these quilts must be quilted, not tied.PLEASE prewash ALL fabrics and batting.

For November through January, we will be looking for quilts for children. These could be pediatric quilts, flannel backed, size 24" x 36" (cot size) for the DECH, or lap size quilts, approximately 55" x 75" for children at Transition and Gignoo Houses.

We will continue our annual donation of Christmas placemats to Meals on Wheels. Size should be approximately 12" 16". These can be brought in to our November meeting, or our Christmas Social.

After January, we will focus on quilts for Teens. These should be flannel backed, lap size quilts age appropriate for Teens. These will go to group homes.

If there are any questions, please get in touch with Jean Burtt, Community Projects Co-ordinator.

The Fall Lineup

2011-09-13T21:46:00.000-03:00

This week marks the beginning of the fall quilt show lineup, with the annual KVQG Show in Quispamsis. Please note the times listed on the sidebar. I had the time for Thursday wrong before, it is now listed correctly. Thursday hours are 1p.m. to 8p.m., Friday 10a.m. to 8p.m. and Saturday hours are 10a.m. to 4p.m.
Also for those of you who are Bernina owners or wannabe's, Suzanne Lane from Quilting B & More of PEI will be in Quispamsis on Wednesday, the day before the Show opens, to demo Berninas. She will have feet, bobbins, needles, accessories, etc. for sale from 11a.m. until 8p.m.at the QPlex. The QPlex is at 20 Randy Jones Way. Take exit 141 off Highway1, and travel north approx. 4 kms. on Route 119 (Gondola Point Arterial). Turn left at Vincent Road and then right onto Randy Jones Way.
Note: Suzanne will be at the QPlex on Wednesday only. She will be a vendor at the Show for Thurs., Fri. and Saturday at the Lion's Center.

More Red and White...

2011-09-08T11:07:00.000-03:00

Red and white is an old traditional combination for quilts in our New Brunswick heritage. No doubt some of our members have an old red and white quilt in their possession. For those of you who were interested in the Red and White Quilt display in NYC that I talked about here and here, I thought you might enjoy having a look at this... WOW! What a dedicated quilter - quite the project!!

Stan Cassidy Rehab Centre Quilt Raffle - Drawing the Winning Ticket

2011-09-01T12:36:00.000-03:00

This morning, Jane Gunn of our guild, in the presence of financial officials, drew the winning ticket for the Nines and Vines Quilt. Sue Robertson, our Guild Coordinator, announced the name of the winner to the crowd of witnesses.

Congratulations goes to Steve Boyd of Fredericton. Steve and Angie, with September here and the fall weather just around the corner, we hope you enjoy snuggling under your new hand quilted queen size quilt.

The proceeds of this fund-raiser will go towards a new bus that will serve users of the Stan Cassidy Rehabilitation Centre around the whole province.

Calling all Members....

2011-08-31T11:19:00.000-03:00

The last day of August- can you believe it? Where has the summer gone? Tomorrow, Sept. 1st, is the drawing of the winning ticket for the Stan Cassidy Rehabilitation Centre raffle quilt. The draw is set for 9:30a.m. in the lobby of the Stan Cassidy Centre. We would like to have as many FQG members present as possible. If you can join us, we'd love to see you there. We can't wait to see who the lucky winner is! It might be you!!
Also- have you remembered to renew your membership for the 2011-2012 year? If not, Paula our Registrar would love to hear from you. She can be reached at 459-3407 or by email at jvmacd@nbnet.nb.ca If you plan to renew at the September meeting, get in touch with Paula to let her know your intentions - we would like to get a clear idea of our numbers for the year.
We encourage members to submit articles, stories or items of interest for our newsletter, The Template. Editor Joyce needs your submissions by Sept. 6 at the latest. Send them to humblej@nbnet.nb.ca as soon as possible.
Our first meeting night will be here before you know it. See you Sept. 20th! New members are welcomed!

Fall Fibre Arts Fest and more Quilt Shows

2011-08-24T19:05:00.000-03:00

Can you believe it's nearly the end of August? I won't say the end of summer as I hope it goes on for a good long while yet... We'll be back at Guild meetings before you know it!
I've been asked to make you aware of the upcoming Nova Scotia Fibre Arts Festival in Amherst in October. Put it on your calendars now!! This is almost a full week of "all things fibre".. quilting, hooking, needlework (hardanger this year), spinning, knitting, felting, rug braiding.. well you get the picture - ALL things fibre!! Kathy Tidswell is teaching two classes too! Click here to go to the website to see the schedule. I bet there might be a class or two there that interests you. There will also be quilt displays, rug displays, a humourous lunchtime theatre and lots of other good stuff happening! I plan to attend this year- will I see you there?
EDIT - Sept. 1 - The NS Fibre Arts Festival now has a blog: click here. Over the coming days and weeks more info will be posted on the blog, so keep checking back. By clicking on the grey tabs at the top, you will find info on the events, workshops, instructors, etc. If you need a little fibre in your creative diet - this is the place to find it!!

It must be time for another Quilt Show Tour, or two or three... Click here, here and here to see my favourites from Maine Quilts 2011. If you did not get down to Life at the Lakes in Cambridge Narrows, you can see a few photos here.
Click here to wing your way to the UK and a 3 minute video tour of the Festival of Quilts at the NEC in Birmingham. (Thanks to Kathy F. for this link.) And here, here, and here for another blogger's look at a Quilt Show in Burlington Ontario - the Halton QG Show.

Did you attend any interesting Quilt Shows this summer?

For Your Viewing and Reading Pleasure...

2011-08-12T13:28:00.000-03:00

Here is a different type of Quilt Show for your entertainment. Click here for a short NFB film about quilts. And if you need a little inspiration today, click here to meet Diane Rose, a blind quilter from Texas. (short video)

On the home front, kudos to our own Gail Mitchell. She has just had an article published in McCall's Quilting magazine, September-October 2011 issue. It gives lots of tips on how to make more from your Raffle Quilt. We all know Gail is very generous with her time, having made quilt tops for local Church groups to hand quilt, so she has compiled a number of helpful suggestions. Well done Gail!!

Great info on Thread

2011-08-07T00:34:00.001-03:00

I thought some of you might be interested in this newsletter from Superior Threads. I have included the Q and A section below. If you would like to read more, you can find the entire August 2011 newsletter here. And if you'd like to read previous Superior Threads newsletters you can access them all here. Of course there's lots of other great things to check out too...Enjoy!

Superior Threads August 2011 Newsletter

WISE WORDS FROM MOTHER SUPERIOR
This newsletter is longer than most but it is full of valuable information. Please print it out and read it as time allows. Good education, sales, announcements, and a joke at the end.

EDUCATION: Common and not-so-common Questions
Here are some questions (and our answers) asked recently in quilting blogs:
Q. Are all invisible monofilament threads the same?
A. No. Most invisible monofilament thread is nylon and nylon is not a good fiber choice for thread. It has very low heat tolerance (400 F compared to polyester’s 480 F). Nylon goes brittle over time and yellows. That is why very few threads are made of nylon. If you like invisible monofilament thread, choose a polyester type such as MonoPoly.
Caution: Watch out for a brand of invisible monofilament thread that is labeled as “polyamide.” That is the chemical name for nylon. It is not polyester.

Q. Does Superior have any threads made of nylon?
A. Yes. Charlotte’s Fusible Web. It is a fusible thread, meaning it melts at low temperature. This thread is wonderful for fusible applique. No more stiff webbing between the layers. Seven easy-to-follow video demonstrations are available on our website.

Q. How do I know what needle to use for quilting, sewing, embroidering, and piecing?
A. We listen to the professionals -- those who do and those who teach. The majority tell us they use the Topstitch style needle for nearly all applications including piecing (#80/12 needle), embroidery (#90/14), quilting (needle size depends on the thread size), general sewing construction/crafting (usually #80/12). The only exception is when sewing on knit fabrics and they use a ball point needle.
Top secret revealed: The bestselling brand of home machine needles puts the exact same needle in the Topstitch and Metallic needle package. It's the same needle. One needle, two packages = double the sales. Save your money. You do not need to buy both. This explains why we no longer sell metallic needles. The Topstitch style is the needle preferred by the professionals.

Q. What determines if a thread is for hand quilting?
A. Strength. Hand quilting puts a lot of repeat stress on thread so it requires a strong thread. Traditional hand quilting thread is coated or glazed with wax or starch which makes the thread rather stiff, slick, and strong. Our hand quilting thread is Treasure, a coated cotton. Some high quality non-coated threads such as King Tut are also perfectly fine for hand quilting.
Caution: Do not use a coated or glazed thread in a machine. The coating will rub off and gum up the machine.

Q. What’s the difference between a piecing thread and quilting thread?
A. Size. When piecing, we want the thread to be fine enough to make a flat, smooth seam. A medium or heavy thread will not do this. Choose a fine (#50) thread for piecing. MasterPiece was created as the ideal piecing thread.

Q. Is it OK to piece with polyester?
A. Yes, if you are careful when ironing the seam. A high-heat iron can melt polyester, so turn the iron temperature down to low or medium. We prefer to play it safe and piece with cotton (MasterPiece) so we can iron the seam on high heat with no risk of melting the thread.

Q. What thread should I use for quilting?
A. There are many choices. Polyester, cotton, metallic, variegated. Please refer to our Thread Selection Guide. And, it is perfectly fine to use polyester thread in your quilt. It will not tear the fabric. That is the biggest myth in the quilting world. Here is a good article on this topic.

Q. What is filament polyester?
A. Most polyester threads are made of multiple filaments (continuous strands) of polyester twisted together. If there is only one single strand, it is a monofilament thread. Most polyester threads have many polyester filaments twisted together. A 3-ply polyester thread has three strands twisted together, but each of those three strands are made up of many micro-strands twisted together. A top quality 3-ply multi-filament polyester thread may have as many as 144 strands (48+48+48) twisted together. A low quality polyester thread may have only 18 strands (6+6+6). The labels do not state the number of micro-strands. If you have wondered why you absolutely love a particular polyester thread, it is probably due to the high number of micro-strands.

Q. My dealer told me that using prewound bobbins will void the warranty. Really?
A. Your dealer is wrong. No sewing machine company makes such a claim. In fact, most sewing machine companies sell prewound bobbins.

Q. Is it true that Superior is the only brand I should use because other brands cause global warming, the swine flu, and other problems?
A. Thank you. This is my favorite question.

Summer Quilt Shows...

2011-07-26T21:20:00.001-03:00

It's been a while since we've had an "armchair tour" to a Quilt Show. So sit back and get comfy... click here for a tour of the recent AQS Quilt Show and Contest in Knoxville TN. You will be able to view all the Award winners, plus there is a video at the bottom if you scroll down. (You'll even see one Canadian Winner! Congrats to Joyce O'Connell of Ontario.)

Speaking of Shows, remember there is a listing of summer Shows in our vicinity on the sidebar at right. The next ones coming up are the Maine State Show in Augusta, and the following weekend, much closer to home a nice little Show and Tea in Cambridge Narrows. "Stories Behind the Quilts", held in the Cambridge Narrows United Church, is just one event during the Life at the Lakes weekend. A full schedule of events offers something for everyone: Art Show and Sale, Wine-tastings, Herb Garden walk, Lavender and Hops Farm tour, Antique car show, Garden Tours, Corn Boil, Horseshoes and Games, and more!!

If you would like a little weekend getaway, why not head down to "the Narrows"? If you enjoy camping, the MicMac Tent and Trailer Park is the most accessible (488-2511), and the Cambridge Narrows Campgrounds and Bed and Breakfast is also nearby (488-2000).

For a complete listing of all the "Life and the Lakes" events, click here to download this PDF complete with times, locations, descriptive details and a map.

In the Gleaner today!

2011-07-10T21:30:00.000-03:00

Remember this picture?. Seems so long ago. You may have seen it in the Daily Gleaner this past Saturday.

The original picture was taken in the month of February as we were getting close to putting the final quilting stitches on the Raffle Quilt for the Stan Cassidy Foundation. The quilt will be at the DECH cafeteria this week at lunchtime. July 11-13 and 15th. I hope you don't have to visit the hospital this week, but if you do, why not drop by to see it.

This Weekend

2011-07-07T16:33:00.000-03:00

What a beautiful summer day we're having. The warm weather has FINALLY arrived. Just a few bits of info for you. Firstly there is a Quilt Show happening this weekend - I have added the dates to the list on the sidebar. It is the bi-annual show of the Quoddy QG in St. Andrews. It is being held in the Anglican Church sanctuary (rather than the usual Church hall location). You can get a sneak peek of some of the winners by clicking here on Gail Fearon's blog. The Show continues tomorrow and Saturday. I believe the show times are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday.

For those of you who were familiar with Jeanne Huntley, "The Bernina Lady" from Berwick NS, you will be saddened to hear of her passing on Sunday July 3. There will be no visitation or funeral but a celebration of her life will be held this Sunday July 10 at the Fire Hall in Berwick NS from 2-4pm. Donations in Jeanne's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a charity of one's choice. Condolences may be sent to the family C/O Serenity Lindsay Funeral Home, 192 Commercial Street, Berwick, NS B0P 1E0 or by visiting online at www.serenitylindsayfuneralhome.ca

Summer Updates...

2011-06-18T12:10:00.000-03:00

Just a few bits of info Ladies... I will pass on info through the summer, as I hear of things, so please do check here once in a while. There is an up to date listing of Quilt Shows and events happening over the summer on the sidebar at right. If you know of any other quilting related Shows or Events please let me know and I will add them. I hope you all will have the opportunity to get out and attend some of these shows- they are always great inspiration and it's fun to support other Guilds and groups.

You are all aware, I'm sure, of the edVentures program which operates in Fredericton through the summer. There are many excellent courses offered between July 5 and August 20. Cl ick here for a complete listing of offerings and more info.

Sunbury Shores in St. Andrews also offers a variety of summer arts courses and nature programs. For a full listing click here. One which might interest you is a Quilted Fabric Landscapes class with Heather Lair. The dates for it are August 22-26, and no machine is required - it's all handwork. Design, composition, construction and quilting techniques will be covered. Click here for more details.

If you are getting new eyeglasses over the summer, and have no further need of your old ones, please hang onto them and bring to our September meeting. They are being collected for Grandmothers Helping Grandmothers. Thank you!!

Lastly if you have any ideas for Gail and I for a summer Blog post here - please let us know. And if you have good clear photos of a quilting project you have completed and will be giving away before our next meeting, send me the digital photo and I'll do a "Summer Show and Tell"...
Happy Summer....

NJS Winners!

2011-06-12T19:55:00.000-03:00

Each year the Canadian Quilters' Association holds it's annual National Juried Show (NJS) in conjunction with the spring conference. No photography is allowed in the NJS gallery, but photos of the winners are now posted on the CQA website and members will receive the NJS catalogue, showing all entries, with their Fall issue of The Canadian Quilter.
You can view the NJS 2011 Winners by clicking here.
Of course now that Quilt Ontario 2011 is over, planning for the next conference is "full steam ahead". If you aren't already aware- the next one is right in our backyard!! "Seams Like Home 2012" will take place at Dalhousie University in Halifax, NS. I hope many of you are planning to attend. Start saving now and write it on your calendar. It's too good an opportunity to miss, when it's this close!! Info will be posted on the CQA website here throughout the coming year as plans continue and take shape. Check in often to see what Karen Henry and her "crew" have in store for us! You won't want to miss it!

Trend Tex Challenge Winners!

2011-05-29T18:03:00.000-03:00

This year's CQA conference, Quilt Ontario, in London, is now over. One of the most interesting shows during each conference is the Trend Tex Challenge. Four of this year's winners are Maritimers! Wow!! Kim Larracy of Moncton won an Honourable Mention, as did Karen Neary of Amherst whose quilt you see pictured above. Kate Madeloso won second place and Carolyn Hudson won a Judge's Choice, both also from Nova Scotia. You can view all the Trend Tex Challenge quilts and the winners by clicking here.
London is known as "Forest City" and the theme for the Challenge was "Quilting in the Forest".

And the Winners are...

2011-05-18T02:10:00.000-03:00

Tonight at our AGM and Potluck dinner, the winners of the Viewer's Choice awards were announced.
The Large Quilt category winner was Irises by Alice Kirkpatrick. This quilt has a bit of a story behind it. The top was cross-stitched by Alice's sister Connie O'Leary before she passed away. Alice decided to complete the quilt to give to Connie's daughter. It was hand-quilted by Alice, with help from her daughter Joyce Humble and friend Betty Nicholson (See photo below. L to R. Betty, Joyce and Alice). So although Alice entered it in the Show, it was a collaborative effort on the part of all three FQG members. It is a beauty, and obviously our Show visitors thought so too! Congratulations Alice!

The Small Quilt category winner was
I See My Sea by Barb Cross. Congratulations!! This quilt hangs in Fredericton's Stan Cassidy Rehabilitation Centre on the paediatric floor. It brings much delight to all the residents and visitors there with it's many sea creatures.

The Miniature Quilt category winner was F8 by Linda Hubbard.
The CQA ribbon, given for the quilt receiving the greatest number of votes, was also awarded to Linda Hubbard for the miniature F8.
Congratulations!

Congratulations to all the winners!

Also it was announced that Donna Young recently won the New Brunswick Contemporary Quilt Award at the Marco Polo Guild Show in Saint John. This new award, initiated by Marco Polo member Kathy Coffin, was designed to add contemporary quilts to the New Brunswick Museum collection and comes with an award of $1000.00 to purchase the winner for the Museum collection. Donna's winning quilt is titled Railways in a Northern Land. The selection criteria stipulated that the quilt must have been made since 1960, by a New Brunswick resident who is a NB Quilters Guild member. The design was to be original or a "new spin" on a traditional pattern and the quilt was to be totally executed by the entrant. Of course workmanship was an important factor as well.

Railways in a Northern Land was designed and made for a national competition entitled "Constructions of Canada" in 2004. It won the Curator's Award and later, in 2005, it was juried into a show of 32 Canadian quilts that went to the Museum of the American Quilter's Society in Paducah KY. It was featured on the cover of the Show Catalogue and the promotional card for that show. Photos here show Donna accepting her award from Kathy Coffin of the Marco Polo QG and Peter LaRoque of the New Brunswick Museum. The other two quilts in the upper photo are the Honorable Mentions, New Brunswick Coat of Arms by Judy LeClue (in the middle) and My Fundy Shores by Sandra Betts (on the right).

Congratulations Donna!!

May AGM and Potluck - are you ready?

2011-05-16T17:35:00.000-03:00

Our final meeting of this quilting year is coming right up. Bring your Potluck dish - please bring hot dishes hot and chilled dishes cold as there is little space or time for re-heating or chilling. Also please bring your own plate and cutlery. Note the earlier start time of 6:30p.m.
Following what always proves to be one of the best meals of the year (quilters are good cooks too!), we will elect our new Executive. Then we'll learn who won the Viewers' Choice awards from our recent Show and ribbons will be presented. Also you will hear about another exciting Award won by one of our members recently. And we'll top it all off with Show and Tell. What a great evening!! See you there!

Show pics!

2011-05-12T10:52:00.000-03:00

Ladies, the photos from our Show "Thoughts of Spring" are now available for viewing. Click on the photo on the sidebar and you will be taken to the Album. Enjoy! Our Viewer's Choice winners will be announced at our meeting next week, and photos and announcement will follow here thereafter. Again, thanks to ALL who helped make our Show such a success!

Show SUCCESS!

2011-05-04T21:18:00.000-03:00

Our Show "Thoughts of Spring" was a resounding success! We have heard nothing but positive comments and much praise for the variety of pieces, the high quality and the wonderful job done by our hanging crew! We estimate we had around 600 visitors (not counting our own members) over the two days, including a busload from PEI. We were very pleased with the new venue and many commented on how bright and well lit it was. We were lucky to have the loan of beautiful brand new racks from the Woodstock Guild - we have struck a deal for our two Guilds to share our racks back and forth - helpful to both groups.
The Show Committee would like to express their sincere thanks to all FQG members involved in making our Show such a success. Thanks to all the entrants for sharing such a wonderful variety of quilts with the viewing public. To all who helped in many capacities - loaning "props", working a shift during the show, baking cookies, helping with transportation, and lastly the set up and take down crew who worked so hard, a huge heartfelt THANK YOU!! And of course we cannot forget the husbands, sons, partners and friends who helped with the setup and dismantling of the racks- we appreciate your help too! Many hands make light work and a Show certainly "brings us together" in our common love of "all things fiber"...
We are so fortunate to have such a varied membership with interests in so many styles and techniques- we had quilts from miniature to queen sized, quilts featuring cross-stitch, embroidery, Sashiko and crazy quilting. There were portraits, landscapes, strip pieced and scrap quilts, lap quilts, tablerunners, crib quilts, placemats and totebags. There were quilts with humour and art quilts. There were cats and a dog, moose, zebra and an egret. And lots of butterflies flitting around... There were stripes and batiks, pastels and brights, African and Oriental quilts. There were both hand-quilted and machine-quilted pieces. There was something for everyone to enjoy!
There will soon be a new Gallery of photos on our sidebar, with lots of photos from the Show. We'll let you know when it's up and running. I'm still editing and cropping... You can see some photos by clicking here and going back through several previous posts. In the meantime, there are a few more photos below for you to enjoy...

We Invite You to Our Show!

2011-04-27T23:31:00.000-03:00

Well ladies, we've been working very hard this week to put together our "Thoughts of Spring" Quilt Show. And if I do say so myself, it looks faaaboulous, dahling! Our "set up crew" worked very hard today, and most of it is in place- just a few pieces left to hang tomorrow and the "tweaking" ...
I'm not sharing any sneak peeks- you'll have to come see for yourself. You'll be sorry if you don't!!
We have 169 pieces from queen size to miniature plus our Spring Challenge pieces, special workshop displays, raffle quilt, vendors and light refreshments...

Once again- Friday April 29th, from 10a.m. - 8p.m. and Saturday April 30th, 10a.m. - 4p.m. at the New Maryland Centre, 754 New Maryland Highway. Exit 285 off the TCH. Click here for detailed directions.... Hope to see you there!

Spring Challenge Winners

2011-04-20T18:06:00.000-03:00

Our Thoughts of Spring Quilt Show is now just days away: APRIL 29 and 30, in case you had forgotten. In conjunction with our show, we issued a Challenge to our members last fall, to do a piece on their interpretation of "Thoughts of Spring". They were given a size limit (maximum perimeter 96") and the piece had to have 3 layers and be quilted. Other than that, they could do whatever they liked. We encouraged participation and creativity. The Challenge pieces were due at our April meeting on the 19th and they were displayed anonymously. Members in attendance voted to determine the winners and all Challenges will be displayed at our Show on the 29th and 30th.
Our members did not let us down - a big Thanks to all participants!! We got a wonderful variety of entries and you can see the three winners here- 1st place went to Barb Cross (on the left) for "One in a Hole", a humorous look at everyone's favourite spring occurance- potholes! Gwenda Mattinson (in middle) won 2nd place for her lovely framed thread painted piece titled "Getting Ready". Gwenda's Artist Statement read: "My 93 year old father had a long winter, so he made himself busy in the basement thinking about spring. I found his winter's work drying in the spring sunshine, just waiting to be installed at various locations on his farm for his feathered bluebird friends to return." 3rd place was awarded to Valerie Moreland (on the right) for "Primroses and Robins on the Patio ". Who doesn't look forward to the return of the robins? Great work ladies!
You'll have to visit our Show to see the other 15 wonderful Challenge pieces.... See you there!

This and That

2011-04-03T00:34:00.000-03:00

How did you like that Red and White Quilt show in NYC? Wasn't that something?! Everyone from Martha Stewart to Ricki Timms have been talking about it. I sure would have loved to have seen it in person. I can't imagine all that work for just 6 days.... If you are like me and "wanted more"... here you go. Click here for a wonderful collection of links to this show- Flickr albums, videos, and blog post links; and here for some more wonderful viewing to music.... make yourself a cup of tea and sit for a while and enjoy this incredible show. A big Thanks to Kathy F. for sending me both of these links.

A few updates for you: we sent off 35 Leaf Bowls to the Local Organizing Committee in London for Quilt Ontario 2011. They are very pleased to have had such a good response from across Canada and report that they have already received enough bowls for each registrant and have extras as well. Thanks to all FQG members who participated in this endeavour- particularly Lois and Barb P. who made many...

The Nines and Vines quilt which we donated to the Stan Casssidy Foundation for raffle has now begun to make it's way around the province and we hear that ticket sales are brisk. It made it's first "public appearance" in Bathurst where interest was great and tickets were in demand. This quilt will be displayed at our Quilt Show April 29th and 30th and tickets will be available on it there.

Kathy Tidswell is again teaching at the edVentures summer progr a m in Fredericton. Kathy has 4 classes this year: 1. Painting Backgrounds for Quilts or Embroideries, 2. Free Motion Embroidery: Painting with Thread,
3. Free Motion Embroidery: Flowers from Thread and 4. Free Motion Embroidery: Creating Textural Artwork. You can see photos of class projects and get all the details by clicking here. Remember if you register for a course before May 31, you will receive a 15% discount.

There are still a few spots open in Barb Foster's workshop "Pieced Diamonds" on April 16th. If you would like more info or to sign up, contact Valerie Moreland. This quilt requires one jelly roll or Bali Pop or you can cut your own strips from your stash. Barb's classes are always great fun, why not join in?? Please note this date is the Saturday BEFORE our monthly meeting, NOT the Saturday after, which is the usual day.

I Wish I Was in New York City....

2011-03-28T13:53:00.000-03:00

Our show is only four weeks away now- this is the last week to get your entry forms in, ladies...

Speaking of shows- don't you wish you could be in New York City today to view this show... for free!! The American Folk Art Museum in Manhattan has declared this year the "Year of the Quilt". (sounds good to me!) As a result, they are hanging two large exhibitis of quilts- part one hangs until April 24th, the other hangs May 10th through October 16th , 2011. But in between, they have hung a spectacular 6 day show- 651 quilts- all red and white (sounds very Canadian to me...). From March 25-30, one can view an amazing display of red and white quilts, all owned by the same person, 80 year old Joanna S. Rose who says she is NOT a collector. You can read more and see photos of the installation here. (I wonder if we could hire this crew to hang our show- they look like they know what they are doing... *wink)
As for the other two shows, IF they allow photo-taking, you may be in luck. It just so happens that I will be in NYC for a day in mid-April, and then again at end of June. I am certainly going to do my best to make my way to West 53rd St. with camera in hand, to try and see both of these exhibits. I'll certainly share photos with you, if I am successful. In the meantime, do check out the link above. WOW is all I can say- wish I could be there today....

Updates and Reminders...

2011-03-23T22:52:00.000-03:00

Thanks again to The Women of the Cloth who gave our meeting program last week. Jean K., Deanna M., Marg W. and Cathy W. did a great job showing us what they had done with a combination of Sashiko and Origami-type techniques to make flowers from folded fabric. Their inspiration was the book "Folded Flowers" by Kumiko Sudo. You can see their blocks at right and below. Thanks also to Gail B who could not be at the meeting, but did send along her block as well for our viewing pleasure. Great program, ladies!

Just a few reminders - most importantly, please get your entry forms in asap for our April Show. The deadline is rapidly approaching (March 31), and we would like your info sooner rather than later...

Check the March 8th post for more info on Art Hits the Wall. The Call for Entry is now out and entries will be received during the month of May. This show runs July 8-August 31, 2011 in Liverpool N.S. Also, that same post has info on an upcoming Bus Tour to Keepsake Quilting in New Hampshire and the Vermont Quilt Festival.

Info has been received on summer fabric dyeing workshops in Cape Breton with Ann Schroeder. More info can be found on her website here. Workshops vary in duration from one day to five days.

Since our March meeting, we have received info on a Bus Tour to the World Quilt Show in Manchester New Hampshire. August 17-21. The cost is $799.00 per person for double occupancy, taxes in. This includes transportation by deluxe motorcoach, 4 nights accommodations, 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner and 1 icecream social, visits to Keepsake Quilting and Canterbury Shaker Village. World Quilt Show features workshops, lectures and presentations. More info is available from Tour Co-ordinator Spencer Waite at 902-368-8927 or spencer.waite@pei.sympatico.ca or from Marg Weeks, Tour Guide at 902-368-1125 or almar@islandtelecom.com

Entry forms for the Marco Polo QG show May 4-8, are available by contacting me. Entry forms must be received by April 6th.

Hearts and Hands for Sendai

2011-03-16T04:29:00.000-03:00

Another great meeting last night! Thanks to the "Women of the Cloth" for a great program. More on that later- with photos! It seemed very timely that our program involved the Japanese arts of Sashiko and Origami. We all reflected on the terrible tragedy in Japan, and I promised info on Hearts and Hands for Sendai.
This is a project being sponsored by the Crazy Quilt International Yahoo Group, to benefit those affected by the earthquake/tsunami disaster. Hideko Isheda, a member of Crazy Quilt International and a fellow blogger, lives in Sendai, and is the inspiration for this effort. Hideko has a wonderful blog which I read often, called Wind from the East - click here to see her recent post of photos of the devastation in her area - you'll want to read further and check out her beautiful handwork as well. She is thankful to be alive but the devastation is heartbreaking. And today March 16th is her birthday....
If you think you might like to join in on this project, here are the particulars as I know them at present: to participate they are asking for a small monetary donation ($10.US per block, although I'm sure they'd be happy with more if you were so inclined) and an 8" finished quilt block, made either with crazy quilting or traditional quilting techniques. The color palette is jewel tones and the blocks will be assembled into quilts which will be exhibited in Japan, raising funds by an admission fee for viewing. It is thought that the quilts will later be auctioned, but I'm not sure that is a definite at this point.
You can see all the details for participating here at Crazy Quilt International, or on Leslie's blog here at Pinyon Creek Stitchin' - Leslie is the co-ordinator for this project. I emailed her yesterday to count me in... I think I'll throw a little challenge out to all my Guild members, and as well all my CQ buddies- c'mon girls- let's all get involved. Blocks are to be mailed to Leslie no later than June 30th (so you can finish your Show entries first, before starting this new project...) I will add more details here on the blog, as they are available.

Canada Eh! Contest voting...

2011-03-12T21:54:00.000-04:00

The entries in CQA's Canada Eh! contest are now up on the CQA/ACC website. Check it out here and be sure to vote. Just scroll down to the bottom and vote for your favourite! Take note of #24 by our own Kathy Tidswell. As well there are several other Maritime entries: some of you know Karen Neary of Amherst (#22) and Anne Morrell Robinson (#5) of Margaree, Cape Breton. They are all so incredible - it's not easy to choose just one!
Voting closes next Saturday, March 19th. Anyone can vote, you need not be a CQA member.

Reminders and Updates

2011-03-08T12:33:00.000-04:00

Hello gals! Just a few reminders and "updates" for you. If you are planning to make (or have already made) a Leaf bowl for CQA's Quilt Ontario in London ON, we need them turned in at the March meeting as they must be quickly sent off to London. Thanks to all who have participated already - look at the lovely ones shown here. Very nice indeed. We know the Local Organizing Committee in London will be very pleased and gratfeul to receive our bowls. They will be given to each attendee at the Closing Banquet.

We are hoping many of you will take an hour or two to do a Spring placemat or two as well- we will use these in our Spring "decor" at the April Show, then they will be donated to Meals on Wheels. We are suggesting a cut size of 12" x 16" to finish at 11.5" x 15.5". Just have fun- use up some fabric, make it cheerful and "spring-y" and know that it will brighten someone's day...

We have received info on an upcoming Bus Tour (originating in Moncton) to Keepsake Quilts and the Vermont Quilt Festival. The dates are June 22-25, 2011. Cost per person is $515. for a twin room, $465. for a triple and $415. for a quad. This includes 3 nights lodging, all breakfasts, 1 brunch and 1 dinner, admission to the Vermont Festival and tip for bus driver. There is a $100. non-refundable deposit and full payment is due by May 15. We will have more details at the March meeting but if you are interested and want further info before then, contact me and I can email it to you.

The Call for Entry is out for Art Hits the Wall in Liverpool NS. Art Hits the Wall is a non-juried exhibit of quilts and hooked rugs, made by permanent residents of Atlantic Canada. The show is held at the Rossignol Centre in Liverpool, July 8-August 28, 2011. This years' theme is Tides of Time and pieces must be created specifically for this exhibit and this theme, not having been previously exhibited elsewhere. Applications will be accepted May 1-31 and each artist may submit up to 2 entries. Entry fee is $10.00 per submission. Again, details will be available at our March meeting, but if you would like the form before then, get in touch and I'll email it to you.

We hope you are getting your entries ready for OUR show in April. I'd be happy to receive your entry forms as soon as possible, by mail, by hand at our meeting, or preferably by email. An e-form, which you can type on and return by email is on it's way to you today.

Directions to our Quilt Show

2011-03-05T00:14:00.000-04:00

Our quilt show "Thoughts of Spring" will be held at the New Maryland Centre at 754 New Maryland Highway on April 29th and 30th. The times are 10a.m. - 8p.m. on Friday the 29th, and 10a.m. - 4p.m. on Saturday the 30th. New Maryland is a residential community located to the south of Fredericton.

If you are approaching Fredericton from the east (Moncton or Saint John) on TCH #2, after passing Oromocto do NOT take exit# 294 (to Fredericton, Miramichi and Mactaquac), but stay on TCH (#2) towards Edmundston, and take EXIT 285A. Turn right at Stop sign and continue straight through the village of New Maryland. After 4.1 km. the road takes a sharp curve to the left towards Fredericton Junction or you can go straight towards Charters Settlement. Keep straight and the New Maryland Centre is immediately on your right, in behind the Ball Field. Watch for our signs. Distance from stop sign at Exit to the NM Centre driveway is 4.25km.

If you are approaching Fredericton from the west (Woodstock and upriver) do NOT take exit 280 (to Fredericton and Miramichi) where the highway splits but keep to the right following signs towards Moncton and Saint John. Continue on TCH#2 and take EXIT 285A/B. Turn right at stop sign and proceed straight through the village of New Maryland. In 3.8 km. the road takes a sharp curve to the left (towards Fredericton Junction) or you can go straight towards Charters Settlement. Keep straight and the New Maryland Centre is immediately on your right, in behind the Ball Field. Watch for our signs. Distance from stop sign at Exit to the NM Centre driveway is 3.9km.

If you are already in the city of Fredericton, proceed "up the hill" on Regent Street, passing over the highway, and passing the Fredericton Inn and Regent Mall on your right, continuing straight through three sets of lights. Continue straight and after several kms. of forest, you will enter New Maryland (just after passing under the new highway). Continue straight through the village. The distance from the light at the main entrance to Regent Mall (the first light, with Mall on your right and Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre entrance on left) to New Maryland Centre driveway is exactly 7 kms.

If you wish to find a bite to eat in New Maryland, the Wetmore Street Pub is at 530 New Maryland Highway. Other choices nearby would be Montanas or East Side Marios off Knowledge Park Drive, the food court at Regent Mall, the dining room at the Fredericton Inn (1315 Regent Street), or the many fast food choices on Prospect Street.

Tip Time Continues

2011-03-03T16:22:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for a few more helpful tips from our February meeting program?
Donna who has made many wallhangings through the years shared her secret for getting a wall quilt to hang flat without rippling - she inserts drapery weight into the binding along the bottom edge of the quilt. It adds enough weight to prevent the piece from rippling. If your piece needs a little more than that, you can add a sleeve or rod pocket to the bottom of quilt back and place a narrow slat or thin dowel in the rod pocket to weight it. Often this can be removed after a month or so.
Jean reminded us when using freezer paper, that it will adhere better to fabric that has been prewashed (sizing removed). If you need a wider piece of freezer paper, you can extend the width by overlapping two lengths and fuse a separate strip over the butted edges with your iron.
Lee showed us a Rainbow Thread Braid, made by Collins. It contains an assortment of 29 different colors of thread precut in 27" lengths: you simply pull out the one you need. Handy for sewing on the go - great for a portable sewing project, a workshop, travel, or a small sewing kit. Also perfect for a student living in a dorm - just add a few hand-sewing needles in a needlecase! (Note: this thread is polyester, not cotton.)
Jane reminded us to clean the rollers on the bottom of our office/sewingroom chairs by removing the ball-rollers with vice grips. Over time, they get clogged with bits of thread, fiber and maybe even some dust! They roll better if kept cleaned out.
Barb shared with us two very useful magnetic tools - a telescopic magnetic wand - great for picking up spilled or hiding pins/needles (@ Home Depot for $2.99), and a magnetic bowl- great for holding pins - just keep it away from your computerized machine (also @ Home Depot, for $9.99). Who says these are only for hubby's garage or workshop? Barb must be a great shopper- she also told us of a set of Sharpie permanent markers, 25 colors, at Costco for ~$16.00. They are great for careful little touchups of thread color, etc. Markers are also great for "coloring" the tip of nylon or poly monofilament thread to make it easier to see when trying to thread the needle.
When trying to press out a fold line in fabric, dampen and press on the wrong side - you will have greater success.
Be very careful when handling a wet quilt. Don't attempt to pick it up by one end or the middle. Rather, lift under it to support it when lifting from sink or tub. When a quilt is wet, it weighs so much more and the added weight of the water can break stitches and/or stretch fibers out of shape.
These were all great tips- we all learned something new, and had some good reminders as well. Well done girls!!

Tip Time

2011-02-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

It's time to share some more helpful tips with you from last week's meeting. Again, thanks to all who participated and shared their ideas with us.
Sue showed us how to do a temporary hanging sleeve - very timely with our upcoming Show. She makes her rod pocket tube, then pins it along the top edge of quilt, on the back side of course. The key is to make sure the upper edge of the rod pocket extends just slightly over the seam attaching the binding. Then turn the quilt over to the right side and with nylon or polyester monofilament thread (the clear "invisible" stuff) on your spoolpin, stitch in the ditch between binding and quilt, with a basting stitch, catching the top edge of
the sleeve. This will not show on the front of the quilt and is very quick. Now you just have to handstitch the bottom edge of the sleeve. Thanks Sue!

I gave a binding tip. You have no doubt experienced having a long binding all nicely rolled up and on your lap, ready to machine stitch to your quilt... then it falls to the floor and gets tangled around your leg, or your chair leg, or the dog/cat tries to run away with it.. it's twisting and making you say bad words... Try this: Roll it up and then insert your extension table's leg into the centre of the roll. It holds it nicely in place as you stitch.. no more problems. Works like a charm!

When using a Hoffman Bali Pop, you may find slight variations in the 2.5" width of the strips. They are handcut in Bali- no precision lasers used there... Try this suggestion from Brenda Henning (author of the Strip Therapy books) - rather than measuring the 1/4" seam at your presser foot, you will instead use a line 2.25" to the left of your foot, keeping the left edges of the strips lined up there. Now the width variance in the strips has been removed within your seam allowances. Click here for a complete explanation with photos. Sounds like the perfect solution!

When sitting down on your couch to do some hand sewing, instead of sticking pins and needles into the arm of the couch (now WHO would ever do that?!), place one of your many flexible fridge magnets on the couch arm to "catch" those pins and needles. Great idea! And who doesn't have a few extra fridge magnets?

Place two rubber wedge style door stops under the base of your sewing machine at the back, to angle it slightly towards you - it will give you better visibility, and help relieve back and shoulder fatigue.

For those of us who find it hard to "keep track" of things... two tips from Linda G: place a small piece of Velcro on your seam ripper and attach other piece to end of your machine or sewing table. Then your seam ripper will always be close at hand ( or see photo at left to see where I put my seam ripper... fits perfectly on my bobbin winder!) To keep track of your small snips, wear them on a lanyard and protect tips with knitting needle tip protectors if you are concerned about damaging the tips.

A great idea for "recycling" bread tags - stick one on the end of your masking tape (or packing tape, scotch tape, etc.) to make finding the end easier and prevent struggling to get the tape started. I will definitely use this one on my masking tape roll. Perhaps it will make it more evident to hubby that it is MY roll.

Paula told us about Hampstead House Books, a great source of discounted books. Their website is found at www.hhbooks.com Click on Crafts under "Browse Categories" on the sidebar, to locate the quilting books.

More tips in a few days... In the meantime, hope everyone is working on their entries for the Show, and our Spring Challenge!

Happy Quilting!

These are a Few of our Favourite Things....

2011-02-17T09:46:00.000-04:00

What a great program we had at our meeting this week! Members were asked to stand up and share tips, techniques or gadgets and it was wonderful- we all learned so much! Thanks to all who took part. There was so much great information, I thought I'd try to do a re-cap for you here - to benefit our many members who are traveling or "snowbirding" at present, and the rest of us with memory issues.. haha! Today I'll recap the gadgets, tools and products mentioned, and in a few more days I'll post some of the tips we heard...
Sue told us of a larger size ziploc bag now available at local Superstores (PC brand) - great for keeping a sewing project together (not to mention many uses in the kitchen). {Edit- I have since found a large (13"x 15.5") zip-loc bag at the St. Mary's Supermarket on Cliff St. - 6 bags for $0.89. Brand is Club Supreme} Several quilters shared how much they love Glad Press 'n Seal, for machine quilting, instead of marking. Jean told us it's also great when you are piling up blankets, quilts or pillows in a closet- a layer of Press 'n Seal in between keeps the pile from falling over! (Here is a link to many uses of Press 'n Seal for quilting.) Freezer paper is another fav product with many uses.
It seems many quilters have issues with slipping- preventing it or enhancing it. Monica showed us her Supreme Slider - an 8" x 11.5" sheet with a slippery Teflon coated top layer to reduce machine-quilting drag and a bottom layer that grips your machine bed. Fons and Porter quilting gloves are also popular with members for easier handling and better control while machine quilting, and really helpful for arthritic hands! They come in three sizes too- small (red), medium (blue) and large (yellow). Donna told us how much she loves the Invisi-Grip on her cutting rulers and several members mentioned using something under your foot pedal to prevent it scooting away from your foot - rubbery shelf liner or a mouse pad were two common suggestions. Donna also showed us her homemade spool holder for metallic or other "challenging" threads. She simply pounds a spike into a small block of wood. She sits her spool on the spike and places it on the floor at the right end of her machine, draws the thread up and through the thread guides. When there is more distance between the spool and the machine's thread guides, it seems to help with metallic threads, in particular the flat ribbon-like threads such as Sulky's Sliver or Coats's Glitz. These threads really do require a vertical spoolpin or orientation, as they tend to twist as they unwind from the spool and the greater distance helps also with giving the thread time/space to "relax". "Flat-film thread tends to twist as it unwinds from the spool and runs through the tension discs and thread path of the sewing machine. When the twists tighten in the tension discs, the thread breaks." (quote from Machine Quilting with Decorative Threads by Maurine Noble, Pub. Martingale and Co. 1998)
I hope you will find the above info useful. Check back in a few days for more Tips to make your quilting easier and more fun!!

February Meeting Reminders

2011-02-12T13:43:00.000-04:00

It's that time again. Our February meeting on the 15th is now just a few days away. Hope to see you there! Our program this month is totally "audience dependant"! Remember, you have been asked to come with one or several tips to share with us all. It could be a sewing/quilting tip, a new gadget to show and explain, a new book you have found useful - just something that we all can learn and benefit from. This idea was a great success last time we did it, so we hope all will come prepared to participate and learn from each other. Don't forget to bring any Show and Tell items as well. Speaking of which- if you recently have shown items please check in our Show and Tell Gallery on the sidebar at right. If your photo does not have a caption under it, or the info is incomplete, please contact me by email, comment here, or at the meeting and give me that info (preferably in writing) so I can get things "tidied up". It's impossible for me at the meeting to do the photos and remember all the names of quilts as well. I'd really appreciate your help with this.
If you have done any leaf bowls for Quilt Ontario 2011, please bring them to the meeting as well. We are collecting these to be sent off to the Q.O. Comm. next month. I am working on two today....
Our Raffle Quilt for the Stan Cassidy Foundation will be "on view" on Tuesday night. It is in it's final stages. The quilting is done, a few missed spots were quilted in a hoop, all marking lines have been erased and the binding is on and now being handstitched. We're sure you'll be impressed when you see it! Thanks again to all the members who helped out with this project.
See you Tuesday night!

Done is Good!

2011-02-03T20:18:00.000-04:00

It's done!! Yippeeee! The quilting was finished this afternoon, with the final stitch being put in by Helen Steadman about 3:45pm. It is off the frame and will soon be bound and labeled. Hopefully it will be ready to be admired at our February meeting. We estimate about 135 hours of quilting time... A big thanks again to Gail M who pieced the top, Sue R who marked it and the 17 FQG members who hand quilted it! In addition to those listed in an earlier post, also quilting were Barb S, Helen S, Linda G, Carole C, Alice K, and yours truly. A huge thank you to all who helped - you're the best!

Progress Update

2011-02-02T12:20:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest update on our hand quilting project. Yesterday was a great day- we had 9 quilters through the day and we made great progress, rolling in four times! Thanks to all the ladies who came to help quilt! What's left now is only 36" wide so it won't take much time at all to finish it. It looks like Mother Nature is throwing another storm our way today and tonight, so we'll have to play it by ear for what happens next. The original plan was for quilting this evening, any time after 6:30, and tomorrow during the day, any time after 9:30a.m. I will be here and the quilt is waiting, but don't take any chances on poor roads. We don't want anyone in an accident. Feel free to check with me first by phone or email.

We're Moving Right Along...

2011-01-29T15:04:00.000-04:00

Now that we're into the Nine Patches, the hand quilting is going quite quickly. We're really happy with the circle design - look how it makes those little Nine Patches pop right up! We think if we had two full shifts per day (4-6 people for morning and for afternoon), we could probably be done in a few more days.
We will plan for Tuesday and Thursday again this coming week, Feb. 1 and 3, along with Wednesday evening. Then we'll see whether we need Friday too. It would be really nice to have some more members involved, so I am going to call a few ladies this weekend and see if they will join us. Because we can only work from the sides now, and 3 people per side is maximum, if you are reading this and planning to come and quilt, I would suggest you give me a call first to see which day and "shift" has "openings". I would hate to turn someone away because we didn't have room around the frame for them....
Thanks Ladies! It's going very well and we're going to be done soon. Your help is very much appreciated. Many hands make light work...

Come Join the Quilting Bee...

2011-01-26T15:24:00.000-04:00

Ladies, the quilt is coming right along... The borders are very close to being totally finished - we just have a few more flowers and a short bit of vine to outline, then we will be ready to do several rolls and we'll be into those nine patches. The weather outlook for tomorrow, Thursday, is not great, but I'm hoping it will not get that bad. I will be home and the "quilting room" will be open. The decision is yours whether to come or not, weather depending. There were only four of us around the frame yesterday, so I'm hoping more people will show up tomorrow or Friday- I'm opening it up to anyone for Friday this week as well. Anytime after 9:30a.m. And of course tonight, Wednesday, after 6:30p.m. you are welcome as well. Call me if you need directions.

A BIG thank you to those of you who have helped so far- Sue R, Barb P, Doris M, Barb H, Donna Y, Gail M, Edith P, Gail B, Ann V, Barb F and Gwenda M..

If you have not visited the Fiber Artists Guild exhibit at Government House yet, you really should make the effort to get there this week as the show finishes on Friday at 4pm. You won't regret it! You can visit my blog here to see some photos, to give you a small "taste"...

EDIT: Update! Late Thursday afternoon: borders are DONE! We are now into the "center" of the quilt. We did several rolls this afternoon and the quilting is progressing quickly. Thanks to the three ladies who braved the snow today to come and quilt. We'll be here again tomorrow (Friday the 28th) - won't you join us?

The Quiting Bee is a buzzin'...

2011-01-20T18:38:00.000-04:00

Ladies, start your engines! Whoops- I mean Ladies, thread up your needles! Our Quilting Bee has begun! Eight members came together around the frame today to get a good start on our quilt for the Stan Cassidy Foundation. Gail Mitchell pieced the Nines and Vines quilt top and it is now in the frame and we are making very good progress on the borders. In fact we even did our first roll today on one side. Woohoo!
We would love to have you join us around the frame. It doesn't matter whether you are an experienced quilter or not- all are welcome. This is a Guild project and an excellent way to get some hand quilting experience, not to mention build some friendships within the guild. It was especially nice to have one of our newest members join us today- welcome Edith! We're so glad you could join us.
Our original plan was to meet again tomorrow - Friday the 21st - however ole Ma Nature might have something to say about that. We will play it by ear and see what the weather is doing tomorrow. The forecast is not great at the moment, but maybe it won't be too bad till later in the day. If you wish to check with me by phone, give me (Linda) a call after 9 a.m.
The plan for the coming weeks is Tuesdays and Thursdays - any time after 9:30 a.m. Come for an hour or two, or come for the day. You are welcome to bring a lunch - coffee and tea will be provided.
Also, if those of you who work during the day would like some evening quilting time, the invitation is open for Wednesday evenings, any time after 6:30pm.
We have lots of needles, sizes 7, 8, 10 and 12. Do bring your own thimble if you use one.
I will post updates, changes, etc. here so check back to see our progress and schedule. As the weeks go on, we may add different days - so keep checking here.
Won't you join us?

Edit: Late Friday afternoon - the storm is upon us and the snow is blowing about, but it didn't stop 6 quilters from working on the quilt again today. We will soon be finished the borders and ready to roll in a bit. Once we get into the center section, it will be easy going . Plan to join us!!

January News and Reminders

2011-01-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

Happy New Year! I hope everyone is well rested after the holidays and you are ready to get back at quilting with renewed energy. Our first meeting of 2011 is coming up - Tuesday January 18th at 7:30pm at the Johnson Ave. Senior Center. New members are welcome. If you have a friend or neighbor who is considering joining us, bring them along...

Our first workshop of the new year is also coming up shortly- there are still a few spots available. On January 22, Lois Mehan will be teaching us all about painting on fabric and how to create interesting original surface designs. This is guaranteed to be a fun-filled day....

Entry forms for our upcoming April Quilt Show have been emailed out to all FQG members. Please let us know if you did not receive them, or if you cannot open the documents. There will be some available at the January meeting.

A new feature on our sidebar is a list of some Quilt Shops which are either local or close by. Clicking on each one will take you to the shop's website or blog. We hope you will find this a useful resource. Several shops are doing blogs with daily or almost daily posts on new fabrics, books and patterns in stock, classes and other events...

Pippa Moore was very grateful to receive our large donation of floss for her educational work in Africa - her "Kitambaa Sewing Project". She is in Uganda now and you can follow her very interesting adventures here on her Blog. Pippa is doing such great work with the Bitengye Designers of Rubingo; it is great fun to read her tales and see photos of the many widows and grandmothers who are benefitting. (You can also find a link to her blog on our sidebar under "Other Sites of Interest".)

Which Block of the Month in 2011 are you going to do?

2011-01-13T11:00:00.000-04:00

Just in case you have not chosen a 2011 Bock of the Month, here are some 2011 free blocks of the month that have started up this month, January 2011.

Fat Cat patterns have a beautiful traditional Block of the Month. Click over here to see the entire quilt and to download Block 1.

Bunny Hill Designs will be publishing the BOM's on the 5th of each months for 10 months. Click here for the link to the first Block.

Do you like to include a bit of stitching in your Blocks of the Month. Here are two sweet stitching BOM's to choose from.

Dawn at As Sweet as Cinnamon has a stitched Block of the Month called "Out of the Box". Click here and visit for details.

The Raspberry Rabbits is also doing a small hand stitched Block of the month. Click here for details and be sure to check in on the 12th of every month.

We need to borrow a hand quilting frame!

2010-12-20T16:38:00.000-04:00

Can you help us out?

We are getting ready to hand quilt a beautiful quilt to donate to the fund-raising efforts of the Stan Cassidy Foundation. We need to borrow a set of 4 quilt stand/frames and rails so that we can have 6 or 7 people quilt around the frame starting in January. The quilt is queen size just in case you have multiple sets of rails. We will return the frame after the quilt is done.

If you can helps us out, please leave us a comment or contact Sue Robertson.

Fabulous Felted Wreath

2010-12-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

At our recent guild Christmas Social, Ann Vanwart showed this fabulous felted wreath she made from a tutorial she found here. Isn't it fabulous.

Did you do any new DIY decorations this year?

A Tutorial - Elegant Rag Garland Lights by Ann VanWart

2010-12-12T20:00:00.000-04:00

At our recent guild's Christmas social, we were so impressed with Anne's Elegant Rag Garland that she displayed at our Show and Tell.

Ann says to be sure to scour your local fabric store for great deals on remnants of fancy fabrics in any white, off white, cream, taupe and light browns. The more different textures the better. Ann also says that this is a good project to do with a few friends, and everyone contribute to the fabric stash.

Here is a picture tutorial to show how Ann went about making this Elegant Rag Garland.

Requirements:

- A string of Christmas lights, either 35 or 50 lights. Lights with white cord is preferred but green will work as well. The wire will be mostly covered. A 35 light set will give you about 11 feet of garland.

Example of fabrics of various weights from sheer to knitted chenille

- Fabrics - Cream, white, taupe fabrics of many textures. Examples of fabric are: sheer, satin faced, knits, chenilles, burlap, brocades, faux fur knits, cording, draperies, corduroy, chenille. Aim to have many different weights including very light sheer to heavier burlap. Here we are using nine for this tutorial but you can use more.

Example of laces and trims

Laces and trims - Cream, whites, taupes. Anything goes when it comes to trims. Tassels, jute rope, rick rack, laces, ropes, rattail, lace, feathers, fur.

Preparation: Plan on cutting all your fabrics and trims before you begin to assemble your garland.

Some preliminary math to estimate the amount of fabric needed: If you have a set of 35 lights, you will use approximately 5 to 6 strips between any two lights, depending on the weight of the strips used. And you will need strips to cover the 2 foot plug end of the string of lights. So to give good coverage, prepare at least 200 pieces of 2" x 9" strips and the sheer fabrics are used in pairs, so cut more of those than the other heavier fabrics.

Cutting Fabrics and trims:

Fabrics: Cut fabrics into 2" x 9" strips. When cutting sheer, drapery, cottons, or anything that will ravel easily, cut these fabrics on the bias. Knits and chenilles can be cut on the straight of grain.

Laces and Trims: Less bulky laces and trims can be cut to 7 or 8 inches long, but thicker trims should be 9 inches. Cut a minimum of 50 pieces of trim. You'll use at lease one or two pieces per section. Use more if you like. This added texture is wonderful.

Add a thicker strip of fabric first.

With all your fabric strips and trims ready, lay out your set of string lights and tie one piece of heavier fabric in the center of one section. Use just one knot.

Use one knot per strip of fabric.

Use just one knot.

Then add different strips of a lighter weight on either side of the first fabric. Continue tying on strips of fabric taking care to evenly distribute various textures and weights of fabric in each section.

After you have filled many sections, you can start to add the trims over the fabrics evenly to further give your garland texture.

And here is what your garland will look like when you are done!

Be sure to drop us a comment and if there are requests, we'll do another tutorial on how to make a matching Elegant Rag Wreath.

Many thanks to Ann V. for your great tutorial!

Reminder of Christmas Social, Dec. 8.

2010-12-06T21:45:00.000-04:00

Merry Christmas everyone! We've gone from green to soft fluffy winter wonderland snow last weekend, back to green again, and today, we've had rain, snow, ice pellets, you name it! You know what they say- if you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes! That certainly applied today!
If you are having trouble getting into the Christmas spirit because of the lack of white stuff- we have just the answer for you! We hope all our members will come to our Christmas Social on Wednesday evening this week- Dec. 8th beginning at 6:30pm. There is no charge, and nothing to bring food-wise - but we hope you'll all bring some Show and Tell items. And of course, if you have any placemats you have made for Meals on Wheels, bring them along to turn in. See you there!

Dry Hands? Try this homemade Quilters Handcream

2010-11-22T13:46:00.000-04:00

Are your hands rough and dry dry dry this time of year? I'm sure it's a combination of the cold weather, the wood stove being on and of course, sewing with/handling your dry fabric. You also find that using regular hand cream lasts about 5 minutes. Why not give this formula a try?

This recipe comes from the 1999 Spring CQA Newsletter, to make a quilters' hand cream. It calls for Shoppers Drug Mart brands, but just use your local drug store brand.

1 jar (400 ml) of Life Brand (Shoppers Drug Mart) Vitamin A cream (14 oz)
1 jar (400 ml) of Life Brand Vitamin E cream (14 oz)
1 bottle (60ml) of baby oil (just over 2 oz)
1 50 gram jar of Vaseline (just under 2 oz)

Whisk all together and put into decorative jars. Let us know if you like it. (Makes a great little gift too!)

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...

2010-11-20T22:13:00.000-04:00

If you are feeling the Christmas Spirit and you have bits of Christmas fabric scraps you're wondering what to do with, why not make up a placemat or two, for Meals on Wheels? We donate placemats to this great cause every year; in the past any "leftovers" went to the Veterans Unit where they were truly appreciated as well. Here are a few at the left to inspire you!
Today's workday was a great success. As the first snowfall drifted down and we watched our cars in the parking lot get their first coating of the white stuff, we merrily sewed the day away...About 20 members showed up to get a good start on their Christmas projects.
Many were assembling their Mystery Quilts, others worked on placemats, tablerunners, Skinny Santas, Snowmen and/or Angels, and numerous other projects. Thanks to Lois and Valerie for organizing the Mystery Quilt - it was good fun!! Also thanks for the "skinny patterns" for the Santa, Angel and Snowman - they are so cute!! It's always a good day when you can sit and sew- and even better when you can do it with friends :)
We hope you are busily sewing up Christmasy things to bring to our Christmas Party on Dec. 8th - let's have a great big ole Show and Tell....

Floss for Pippa's work in Africa

2010-11-17T12:55:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all the guild members who brought in embroidery floss to be shipped to Pippa Moore. Pippa is starting the planning for her work with African women soon, and this floss will be a big help. We have listed Pippa Moore's blog on our sidebar. Go have a look at some of her inspiring work.

It's That Time Again...

2010-11-12T20:48:00.001-04:00

Yes, our meeting night is right around the corner- next Tuesday night the 16th. Hope you'll be there. Remember your nametag, mug, something for Show and Tell, return any Library books you have borrowed, and if you have any unwanted embroidery floss, bring it along to donate to Pippa Moore's teaching in Africa. We look forward to seeing lots of interesting projects from the recent Retreat, and maybe even hearing a few stories - although you know what they say.. what happens at Retreat, stays at Retreat...

We will find out more about our upcoming Quilt Show, scheduled for next April 29 and 30th. I've heard it will have a Spring theme, and there will be a Spring Challenge! Let's hope many of our members will participate - as the cold weather sets in this month, you can start dreaming of warmer "springy" thoughts!! What comes to your mind when you think of Spring??

See you Tuesday night.... 7:30.. be there!!

NQA Show, Ohio

2010-10-29T19:17:00.001-03:00

It seems that all the local or "close to local" Quilt Shows are now over for this year. Nothing upcoming on the Maritime horizon until Spring 2011. Plans are slowly underway for our own show which will be held at the end of April, Friday and Saturday the 29th and 30th. Start thinking now about what you will enter... We will have some details for you at our next Guild meeting on Nov. 16th.
In case you are looking for some inspiration, check out this recent NQA show held in Columbus Ohio. Lots of eye candy and incredible work to admire here!! You can look at individual images or click in the upper lefthand corner to view a Slideshow. Enjoy! Thanks to Sandi M for passing on this link...

Notices and Updates

2010-10-21T19:37:00.002-03:00

1. Just a reminder that Diane Bunker of Country Crafts and Curtains is selling off a large selection of fabric sample books this Saturday, Oct. 23 beginning at 9 a.m. They are not at the shop but at her home at 427 Canada St. in Marysville. You pass the Irving at Crockett St. intersection, continue on till you go through the flashing light, then it is about the 6th(?) driveway on your left. It is a long driveway- you cannot see her home from the street. The light colored 1 1/2 storey house just before her driveway is #425 and there is a fire hydrant on the other side of her driveway. The books are selling for $2.00 each.

2. In case you were planning to put items into the Quilt and Rug Sale in conjunction with the Christmas Craft Village at Exhibition Park, Halifax, Nov. 12-14th, the entry deadline has been extended till Oct. 30th. More details are available at www.christmascraftvillage.com

October Reminders

2010-10-15T19:40:00.000-03:00

The days are flying by as swiftly as leaves are flying by my window in today's wind and rain. Tomorrow is our first Guild workday. Hope you'll be there- come and work on your own project or join in the fun with Carole and Jean making funky pillowcases. There'll be other things going on too- something for everyone. If you are having a problem with a project, bring it along and Sandi will offer help or advice.

Remember this coming Tuesday, Oct. 19th is meeting night. We have an excellent program planned- we guarantee everyone will learn something new as we go through 5 learning stations. The last time we tried this it was a big hit. We think this one will be too! Don't forget to bring something for Show and Tell- a recent project or anything Fall or Hallowe'en themed. Guests and new members are welcome.

And if you'd like to take one more "virtual tour" of a Quilt Show, click here to fly over the Bay of Fundy to Nova Scotia and beautiful Mahone Bay. The Guild there held a Show recently and this is a slideshow from it. Once the Kodak Gallery opens, click on the photo at right to advance them.

Quilted Floors

2010-10-12T03:25:00.000-03:00

Have a quick look here at some photos of floors that I took at the Vatican. These floors are from the Raphael Signature Room of the Vatican Museum. I'm so glad they allowed photography in this room.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-10-08T21:03:00.000-03:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all the quilters out there! We hope you share a wonderful weekend with loved ones. Maybe you'll even find a few quiet moments to spend at your sewing machine, or doing handwork- whatever makes you happy.... If you have a few hours to spare and feel like going for a drive to admire nature's autumn glory, you might want to take a drive down river towards Gagetown- see the recently added info in the sidebar under "Coming Events" in our area. The Upper Gagetown W.I. are putting on their annual Quilt Show and Craft Sale.

We have so much to be thankful for- great friends in our Guild, the varied talents and skills which so many are willing to share, our Executive who do such an awesome job, the beautiful fabrics and threads with which we create... I could go on and on.. We are so blessed.

If you would like to sit back and enjoy yet another Quilt Show in the comfort of your own armchair, both Gail M. and I visited the Sussex Guild's Show last weekend. You can go here, here and here to view some of their show. Enjoy!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend, and don't eat too much turkey!!

Ready for another Armchair Tour?

2010-09-20T15:10:00.001-03:00

If you missed the KVQG Show this past weekend, pop on over to Stitch Lines here and here to see some of the many wonderful quilts. Congrats to our own Sandi Mac who won four- count 'em- FOUR ribbons!! Congrats also to former FQG member Davida Sisk who won two ribbons. Way to go girls!!
So I hope you are all ready for our first Guild meeting tomorrow night- Tuesday Sept. 21. See you there, and don't forget to bring something for Show and Tell- recently finished pieces, WIPs- Works in Progress, or anything that is Fall or Thanksgiving related... Remember also the opportunity to buy a "new to you" book at our Library book sale - loonies and toonies or small bills appreciated.

Sewing Space Savvy - Looking for a new Machine?

2010-09-14T21:11:00.000-03:00

One of the questions I am asked most often when I teach classes is "I want a new sewing machine- what should I buy? What features should I look for?" We are so lucky today to have so many wonderful machines to choose from. However because of the variety of choices, many buyers become confused and overwhelmed.
Purchasing a new machine is a big step. Your first decision will have to be how much you are willing to pay. Once you have decided that, then it's a good idea to make a list of 1. your sewing needs and 2. other features which you would like to have. Your "sewing needs" refers to the type of sewing you do most often ( ie making clothing vs. making quilts). Consider which features will serve you best.
Clothing: stretch stitch, multiple zigzag, friendly zipper foot, good buttonholes, freearm for sleeves, blind hemstitch.
Machine Quilting: machine bed size (distance between needle and vertical body housing to handle bulk of quilt), handles monofilament and other specialty threads, available walking foot and 1/4" foot for piecing, feed dogs that drop, single hole throat plate available, knee lift.
Machine Applique: adjustable satin stitch, blanket stitch, variable needle positions, open-toed foot available.
Of course there are some basic features which any quilter will want:
- 1/4" foot - it's proper use will guarantee an accurate 1/4" seam allowance
- horizontal AND vertical spool pin options- really great to have both
- straight stitch and zigzag - straight stitch for piecing, topstitching and quilting. Zigzag either open or closed (satin stitch) is for machine applique.
- needle up/needle down function - this gives you the option of stopping with the needle down in the fabric, leaving your hands free. It's a great feature.
- feed dogs that drop - for free motion quilting (stippling, thread painting, etc.)
- machine bed size - the distance between your needle and the vertical housing - the greater it is, the more room you have to maneuver the bulk of your quilt when machine quilting
- walking foot (also called even feed foot) This foot is a must for machine quilting, allowing all 3 layers of the quilt to feed through machine evenly with no tucks on the back.
- darning foot - this foot is needed if you want to try stippling and free motion work
- sensitive foot control - you should be able to sew slowly at a uniform speed. Some machines have a speed control, allowing you to reduce the speed to half the normal.
There are many other features available- talk to your friends and fellow Guild members to see what they like best about their machines.
Always "test drive" a machine you are considering. Try out it's features. See how easily the feet are changed. Does it have good tension? Can you access the bobbin easily? Is the machine quiet?
Is it heavy? Does it have a comfortable carrying handle? Does the machine respond immediately to reverse stitching or changing the stitch length? Is there storage for tools and accessories? Are there good quality accessories (feet) made specifically for this brand? Does it have a good light? Does it have adjustable needle positions? Of course there are always "more" features which would be nice, such as a signal when the bobbin is running low, needle threader, large library of stitches, extension table, and so on.
One of the MOST important considerations is the dealer. The dealer should be well versed and be able to answer all your questions. He/She should provide a reasonable warranty and offer service, repair and accessories on the premises. Instructional classes are a wonderful bonus. Ask around among your friends and sewing acquaintances and fellow Guild members concerning the dealer's reputation, as you will want to know that he/she is someone you will trust and be comfortable with.
The purchase of a quality machine is an investment - don't be rushed into a purchase by special offers, pressure from the dealer or an impatient companion. If you are looking for a basic machine, consider that after you have reached a certain level of expertise, you will want some extra features so you can experiment with new techniques and stitches. Consider your goals as a quilter and purchase a machine that will allow you to grow. And don't fear computer technology! It's here to stay. Don't be intimidated by computerized machines- just read the instruction manual and play until you understand how it works! You will soon come to love the computerized features.
We get such enjoyment from using our machines for this wonderful hobby. If you are constantly having frustrating problems with an old machine, perhaps it's time to treat yourself to an upgrade!

Getting ready for the FQG 2010 - 2011 Guild year

2010-08-31T17:51:00.000-03:00

With September upon us, many of us are anxious to get back to guild. We are looking forward to seeing our friends and their projects. We all will get lots of inspiration when we hear what our guild executive has in store for us this year.

Our meeting is the third Tuesday of the month. I hope we see you there. September 21st at 7:30pm at the Johnson Ave. Senior Center on the northside.

We would like to welcome anyone who would like to join our guild. Our guild has no waiting list and would love to see some new faces.

If you would like to know more about the guild, why not give one of us a call or an email.

Jeannie-Kaye Speight
506-452-1875
rspeight@nbnet.ca

Gail Mitchell
506-472-2644

Ready for Another Armchair Tour?

2010-08-26T21:52:00.000-03:00

If you didn't get across the border last weekend to attend the quilt Show in Houlton, it's not too late!! Click here to go to Stitch Lines and have a quick view of some of the quilts, including The Quilt Show by Laura Peterson of Bigfork Montana.

Sewing Space Savvy - the Design Wall

2010-08-22T14:40:00.000-03:00

Do you have a design wall? No? I bet you would like to have one... In this first post in our series "Sewing Space Savvy" we will give you some ideas about the importance of having a design wall, and how easy it is to make one for yourself.

Why have a design wall, you ask? There are several good reasons. First off, it allows you to stand some distance back to get an overall view of your piece in progress. Keeping visual track of how a quilt is progressing often helps to keep us engaged and enthused. A vertical view is a huge improvement from working on a table, bed or the floor, and puts a whole new perspective on the progress of your work, saving you from obvious and subtle missteps. Problem areas with regards to color or value choices become glaringly obvious, and a block turned the wrong way jumps out at you.
A design wall also is helpful when auditioning fabrics- those which will be used within the quilt as well as border choices.
A third advantage is that it allows you to play with design or pattern layouts. The photos you see here are the same set of purple blocks, laid out six different ways on a design wall. Thanks to Sandi M. for the use of these photos. Sandi was not that pleased with the pattern's layout suggestion for the blocks, so she came up with five other options, by playing with layouts on her design wall. (FYI, the first photo, above left, is what the pattern suggested, the actual quilt she made used the last layout, bottom right. Which one do you like best?)
Are you convinced yet? Everyone should have a design wall! Once you have one, you'll wonder how you ever got along without it! I can hear some of you thinking - But I don't have a "free" wall. If that is the case, you can have a "temporary" design wall - it does not have to take up permanent wall space. There are many options for this, using some sort of "fuzzy" fabric that blocks and patches will "cling" to, or a material that will accept pins so that heavier WIPs (works in progress) can be pinned to it, or a combination of both. The least expensive choice will likely be flannel (available with or without a grid). Other choices are fleece interfacing, needlepunched batting and felt. A flannel sheet or a flannel backed vinyl tablecloth can be an easy solution. Since flannel sheets are hemmed at both ends, rods can be slipped through at both ends and your design surface can then be hung from cup hooks in a ceiling or over a closet with bi-fold doors. Grommets could be added to the top of a flannel backed vinyl tablecloth, a length of dowel attached to the bottom so it will hang flat, and this too could be hung from cup hooks. Both of these ideas allow for rolling up with blocks in place, when you need to use the space or closet.
Here are several other ideas for temporary or free-standing design systems. 1. Purchase a roller shade which allows you to fuse your own fabric to the shade. Apply flannel, and mount on a wall, over a window or closet, or in front of shelves. It can be quickly rolled up when not in use. 2. Mount a curtain rod at the top edge of a door frame. The rod can be slid through the hem of a flannel sheet, or if your space is narrow, just hem one end of the appropriate width of flannel. The flannel is easily removed and the rod is not in your way when not it use. 3. Purchase a folding screen and cover with flannel - this can be folded up and put away when not in use.
4. Cover one side of a 4x8 sheet of styrofoam (at least 1" thick) with flannel and lean against a wall or the back of your sewing room door. This can be stored under a bed when not is use. 5. Two inexpensive bookshelves can be placed side by side, perpendicular to a wall and their backs covered with flannel. This combines a design space with storage too! 6. A very temporary quick and easy solution is simply throwing a flannel sheet over the drapery rod in your living room. No doubt there are other good temporary solutions- if you have another idea that has worked for you, let us know and we will add it here.
If you have a wall area that you can dedicate to a permanent design space, probably the least expensive solution is two 4x8 sheets of 2" thick styrofoam. Screw the panels side by side to your wall with washers behind the screws to prevent them sinking into the styrofoam. Then cover with your fabric of choice and pin to the edges, trimming off any excess fabric. If you don't have an 8 foot space, cut down the styrofoam to fit your available space. It's as simple as that!
Hopefully we have given you some food for thought here.. there is no reason why everyone cannot have at least a small design wall - whether permanent or temporary. If you would like additional info about creating design walls and sewing spaces I recommend Dream Sewing Spaces: Design and Organization for Spaces Large and Small by Lynette Ranney Black, Palmer/Pletsch Publishing or Setting Up Your Sewing Space: From Small Areas to Complete Workshops by Myrna Geisbrecht, Sterling Publishing Co.

EDIT - Sept. 22/10
I just received the latest Quilters Newsletter magazine, and there under "Staff Picks" (latest things on the market) is a new option for a "Vanishing" Design Wall. Basically, it is a 60" wide, 5 1/2" deep shelf which can be mounted over a window or closet door. When you are ready to work, you pull down a 54 1/2" by 70" retractable vinyl-backed flannel wall (like pulling down a blind), and when it's clean up time you can leave your work in place and roll the flannel back up into the shelf. How sweet is that? You can see a photo on page 51 of the Oct./Nov. issue of Quilters Newsletter or visit www.vanishingdesignwall.com

Another Armchair Tour

2010-08-06T21:58:00.001-03:00

Now we all know that quilters like to attend Quilt Shows to look at quilts. Even better is if you can "attend" a show without leaving your armchair and computer screen. We have a number of shows happening this summer within a few hours drive of our fair city (See the up to date list on our sidebar.) I was lucky enough to attend Maine Quilts 2010 this past weekend. I have just posted photos of some ribbon winners on my own blog. If you'd like to see them just click here. I will be adding more photos over the next few days as well, so check back often at Stitch Lines...

The small quilt shown above is from the Blueberry Fields Forever Challenge. It was made by Pat Smith of the Kennebec Valley Quilters' Guild of Madison Maine. Members were given two medium values of blue and pine green; they had to use both, and add two embellishments of their choosing.

Summer Reading

2010-07-10T19:31:00.000-03:00

I had a chance to meet up with a fellow quilting blogger, Judy from CJ Stitching & Blooms, this week in PEI. She's from Michigan and was visiting all the Anne of Green Gables attractions earlier this week. She's a crazy quilter and I've been following her blog for some time now. We met in Cavendish and we exchanged postcards. You can see them on my blog here.

She also brought for our guild members to enjoy this summer, a big stack of mostly Aussie quilt magazines. Wasn't that nice of her!!. Although she won't be home for a week or two yet, why not drop by her blog and say a big Thank You. What a fun way to get quilting inspiration for the fall.

If you would like to have a turn looking at these magazines this summer, just leave a comment or send me an email and I'll arrange for you to have them. I'll bring them to guild in September.

Many thanks Judy, and happy travels.

Introducing Barb Perry, new Guild Coordinator

2010-07-05T10:52:00.000-03:00

The Fredericton Quilters' Guild would like to introduce you to Barb Perry, the new 2010-2011 Guild Coordinator. Here you can see Barb posing with her beautiful Ragdoll cat Molly.

Barb has been an active member of the guild for a number of years and is excited about the upcoming year. She is pleased to welcome new committee members to the executive and also those who are staying on for another year of duty.

Barb invites all your comments, suggestions and of course wants you to have a great year with the guild.

Your 2010-2011 Guild committee is as follows:

Coordinator ...............Barb Perry

Asst. Coordinator ......vacant

Past Coordinator ........Linda Glassford

Secretary ...................Doris MacSween

Treasurer ...................Lois Mehan

Workshops .................Valerie Moreland

...................................Jean Ketch

...................................Anne Price

Programs ...................Marg Wood

...................................Tracey Houlding

...................................Jane Seabrook

Social Committee........Carol Good

...................................Elma Walton

Registrar ....................Jeanne Kaye Speight

Community Projects....Dawn Sharpe

Library .......................Gail Butts

....................................Karen Needham

....................................Paula MacDonald

Archives .....................Linda Hubbard

Newsletter .................Joyce Humble

Telephone...................Jane Gunn

Retreat .......................Laverne Deakin

....................................Linda Hubbard

....................................Sue Robertson

....................................Jean Street

....................................Cathy White

Happy Canada Day!!

2010-07-01T05:05:00.000-03:00

Happy Canada Day! We thought today would be a great day to have a "Red and White Show and Tell". Thanks to all our members who have submitted photos for our use. We hope you all celebrate being Canadian today, in a special way.. and what better way than looking at quilts!!

Summer Show and Tell

2010-06-26T04:03:00.000-03:00

What are you working on this summer? Do you have a project that will be given away, so that our members will not have a chance to see it at Show and Tell in the fall? If so, forward a good clear digital photo to Gail or Linda and we will do another post or two of "Summer Projects" through the summer. It's always fun to see what everyone's working on over the summer stretch...

Above is a lap quilt just completed by Sue Robertson. It's a gift going to Ottawa soon so we are lucky to see it now. It was machine quilted by Janet Spurrell in a pattern called Champagne Bubbles, which really complemented the circular quilt design..

Carole Christie has been busy too- she has just finished this top at left, made from a Bali Pop. Love those colors Carole! She says it was quick and easy and she still has fabric left! Now she'll have to get busy and think of something to do with the leftovers!

Donna Young has been working on this small piece below, to feature the red orchid fabric. (You can click on these photos for a larger view) Lovely Donna!

Remember we would like to feature Red and White quilted items for Canada Day, so send Gail M. a digital photo of your red and white project(s) asap, to be included in our July 1st feature. It doesn't have to be a new or recent piece...

Happy Summer Sewing!

Navigational Help....

2010-06-24T11:12:00.000-03:00

We thought it might be helpful to some of our members/ readers who may not be too familiar with blogs and webpages, to offer you a few tips for "navigating". We hope you will find these useful, and if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please feel free to get in touch with Gail or I by leaving us a comment here, or phoning or emailing us. You know how to find us!!

You can usually get a larger view of our posted photos by placing your cursor on the photo and clicking once. Occasionally this doesn't work....( not our fault, just a quirk of Blogger) but most times this will give you a much better view of the subject.

At the bottom of most posts, you will see the word "labels" followed by one or more titles. This is just a way for us to "categorize" our posts. Did you know that if you click on the label title, it will bring up all the posts that have that label? For example if the post is labelled "Quilt Show", you will get ALL the posts that have the Quilt Show label.

We would LOVE for you to leave us a comment when you have enjoyed your visit with us. (We'd like to know who our visitors are!!) It is VERY easy to do. At the bottom of each post you will see "0 comments" or "2 comments" or whatever. Simply click on this once. It will take you to previously written comments if there are any, and below that a box. Simply type your comment in the box and if you like leave your name or initials - we'd like that! :) Then below the box, you'll see "Comment as". Hit the arrow button and choose from the options there- if you are not a blogger, you can just choose "anonymous" which is at the bottom of the list. Then hit the "post comment" button. It's as simple as that. Try it!! You can always use this comment box to contact Gail or I as well - with suggestions, questions or whatever, as these comments come to our email inboxes....

If you haven't visited here for a while and you are reading back through previous posts to "catch up", when you have scrolled down to the bottom, click on "Older Posts" to go back further. If you click on "Home" it will bring you back to the most current post.

You may find it interesting to watch how many hits this webpage is getting. Scroll down to the bottom of our right sidebar and you will see our two "counters". These count the number of visits.... One is new, counting visitors since June 2010, the one below it has been counting since we began last Fall.

We hope this is helpful for you. You can always leave a comment if you have a question!

Flying Geese, fast and easy

2010-06-22T17:30:00.000-03:00

At the April meeting, I gave a quick demo on a speedy way to make the Flying Geese unit, with only one seam! This is a method I learned from Ricky Tims, who learned it from a quilter in England. Here are the quick and easy steps for a finished unit of 2.5" x 5".

1. From your "background" fabric, cut two 3" squares. From your "goose" fabric (the triangle) cut a rectangle 3" x 5.5". Of course if you were making a number of units, you could cut 3" strips, then sub-cut.

2. Now make your "sandwich": Lay one background 3" square right side up. Fold your rectangle in half, right sides out, and lay on top of the 3" square with the folded edge at the top and raw edges aligned at the bottom. You'll notice the folded edge will not line up with the square at the top, it will be about 1/4" short of the top edge. This is correct, don't worry. (see photo above) Lay your other 3" square on top to complete the "sandwich", right side down, with all edges carefully aligned.

3. Stitch a 1/4" seam on the right hand side of the sandwich.

4. Press seam to one side. Then open up the rectangle to form the "goose".

5. Press. You now have a Flying Geese unit which measures
3" by 5.5". When it is sewn into your project the finished dimensions will be 2.5" x 5".

Here are the cutting sizes for Flying Geese of other sizes:

Finished Size 1" x 2", cut squares 1.5" and rectangle 1.5" x 2.5".
Finished Size 2" x 4", cut squares 2.5" and rectangle 2.5" x 4.5".
Finished Size 3" x 6", cut squares 3.5" and rectangle 3.5" x 6.5".

If you would like to watch a video of Ricky Tims demonstrating this method, click here

The Quilt Show Quilt

2010-06-14T13:51:00.000-03:00

While browsing blogs a few weeks ago, I came across the most incredible quilt and I knew right away I wanted to share it with all of you. It was made by Laura Peterson of Bigfork Montana. Bigfork is a small town on the eastern shore of Flathead Lake - I drove right by there a few summers ago... but I digress. I emailed Laura to ask if she would mind my sharing the photo and website with you and she was happy to oblige. Her quilt is 108" by 30" and is called "The Quilt Show". Here it is...

If you click here, you will be taken to the website she created to tell viewers all about the quilt- how the idea percolated in her mind after attending Quilt Shows and "people watching" or should that be "quilter watching"....??? You can view each individual quilt and read it's story... and read about how she created the "quilter people"... Amazing... Thank you Laura, for allowing me to share this with our members and other readers.

I kept thinking I would LOVE to see this quilt "in person"... well guess what? It is coming to Houlton Maine in August!! The Friends and Needles Guild in Houlton will be featuring it at their annual Show, August 20-22, 2010. This show is held at the Elks Club on Main Street, hours are 10a.m. to 4p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admissioon is $5.00. I'll happily pay $5.00 just to see Laura Peterson's The Quilt Show quilt!! Will I see you there?

Let's get physical..Geophysical...

2010-06-09T23:14:00.000-03:00

Are you ready for another armchair Quilt Show tour? I explained to you earlier that there were a number of Shows at Quilt Canada in Calgary, but I did not show you photographs from them all. Many had numerous signs posted throughout their displays about copyright and asking viewers to respect it, using any photos only for their personal use. I'm not sure if everyone would agree that a blog is "personal use" but I chose to not post photos of other artists' work when I could not give proper credit with names, titles, etc.

But today I can take you via a link to one of the Shows- Geophysical by FAN - Fibre Art Network which is a group of fibre artists from Western Canada. "Geophysical" pays tribute to Geology, and the scenic and economic riches it provides to western Canada. FAN members were challenged to interpret, in cloth and thread, "the earth and the forces that shape it". Click here to see all 46 pieces which made up this Show. If you click on each individual quilt, you will be able to read the artists' explanation. Other FAN exhibitions can be viewed by clicking on "Exhibitions" on the left sidebar. Be warned, you could spend a lot of time here a-lookin'... but what a great way to travel to a number of shows- all in the comfort of your own chair!! No airfare, no luggage, no hassle!!

The four photos I have included with this post were some of my favourites (in no particular order) and are just a sample to whet your appetite- do look at the entire show- it's well worth the visit. The uppermost photo (top left) is Sea Floor Spreading Centre by Gay Walker; the next photo (on the right) is The Pressures of Time by Vivian Kapusta, our CQA Secretary; the third photo (above left) is Eruption by Kathryn Botsford and the bottom photo (on right) is Layers of Creation by Judith Panson. (You can click on each of my 4 photos here and get a larger view).

Threadworks 2010 Show

2010-06-02T17:27:00.000-03:00

A while back I promised to take you on some "armchair tours" of Shows that I have found on various blogs that I follow. Today I'll take you to the Wellington Co. Museum in Fergus Ontario (near Guelph) for the Threadworks Show. It showcases exceptional needlework, by both hand and machine, by artists across Canada. This show is a special project of ONN - the Ontario Network of Needleworkers and the theme this year was Trees. Threadworks is a juried exhibition that is mounted every three years, and then travels around Ontario to various galleries and museums. All pieces must be original, and must be "substantially worked" with a hand or machine needle. FQG member Kathy Tidswell has a piece in this show.
I found this "review" on a Blog I follow, called True Blue Canadian. You can see her photos and read her comments about the Show by clicking here and here. You can see all the show pieces by viewing the catalogue here. The Threadworks website can be viewed here.
So go get a cuppa, sit back and enjoy the show.... for free!

Quilt Canada 2010 in Calgary

2010-05-28T19:14:00.000-03:00

I was fortunate to be able to attend Quilt Canada 2010 in Calgary Alberta last month. It was an inspiring week and a wonderful experience- all except for the snowstorm which I could have done without. (I was SO glad that, in preparation for my trip, I had had a pedicure and packed my sandals! lol) Although I didn't register as a Full Conference delegate, I did spend two full days taking in the Shows (13 in total!) and yes I did manage to wander through the large Merchants Mall more than once.

I had a lovely chat with Pippa Moore and she asked me to say Hello to all her FQG friends. My buddy Sue had a chat with Gail Hunt and I'm sure she too would want to be remembered to all her former students at FQG.

If you would like to read more about Quilt Canada 2010 and see a sampling of the many wonderful quilts from several of the Shows, you can skip over to my personal Blog and see them here, here, here, here and here. Photography was not allowed in the National Juried Show but you can view the NJS Winners on the CQA website by clicking here. (You can click on each image there for a larger view.)

Next year's conference will be in London Ontario and the following year, Quilt Canada 2012 is coming east! It will be held at Dalhousie University in Halifax. Woohooooo!! This is an opportunity every Maritime quilter should take advantage of! It is not to be missed! Start planning now to attend - the dates are May 28-June 2, 2012.

Pot Luck Favorite

2010-05-25T18:29:00.000-03:00

At our recent pot luck meeting, I was restricted to eating soft foods only because of some dental work I had the day before. I was browsing the great buffet and saw this beautiful pan of soft-looking cornbread. It was very moist, almost pudding like in consistency, but it was cornbread with a lovely flavor. I went back for seconds and smacked my lips the whole time I ate the second piece too. It was so good.

I asked around, and it was super-cook Gail Butts who brought it. The Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread recipe comes from the food networks Ina Garten - the Barefoot Contessa. I should have known. She is such a good cook and I regularly use her cookbooks.

Want to give it a try? The recipe from the Food Network can be found here.

Did you have a favorite food at the Pot Luck? Let us know, and we'll see if we can get you the recipe.

Final FQG Show and Tell of the year

2010-05-19T21:39:00.000-03:00

Have a look at many of the spectacular quilts at our final meeting of the year. I didn't get photos of all the quilts, but I got a good representation. We'll try to get other pictures from the Show and Tell from some of the other cameras that were in the room. We'll add them to the members gallery on the sidebar.
Marieke made this quilt with her grandmother Sally L. and came to the pot luck to show us her work. Everyone gave her a big round of applause. What a great job she did and we're so pleased that she came to show it. (Our apologies- we've had trouble with the formatting of this post. The spacing between photos and text seems to want to "do it's own thing"; I've tried several times to edit and fix it but it seems to have a mind of it's own. Our apologies for the gaps... LH.)

Dawn S. made this wallhanging from a kit. That single piece of fabric in the center just sparkles with all those complimentary colours around it.

Lois made this little quilt from a picture of a larger quilt. Those little houses that were paper pieced, are lit up so nicely and the stars are twinkling in the night sky. It's so sweet Lois!

Paula M. made these bags and some of the materials were recycled. The green bag was made using a charm square pattern, but used regular non-cut fabric instead. Great work.

Charlotte M's is wowing us this year with all the work she's been doing. This is her shuffle style quilt. It is a tall quilt, but not quite as tall as Charlotte who you see peeking over the top.

LaVerne's granddaughter Rian is the lucky girl who will get this custom creation. The Sunflower has dimensional leaves.

This quilt by Robyn A. is mostly done from left over fabrics from other projects. If you look closely you can see the beautiful feathers that were quilted in the side setting triangles. Isn't it beautiful!

Joan Whelpley, one of our members who was awarded a lifetime membership for her contributions to the community, is amazing. She comes to guild each month with a collection of childrens quilts that she has made. Here are three that she brought with her this month.

Lee and the Friday girls took a challenge earlier this year. She practiced various machine quilting styles and this finished challenge was quite impressive.

Linda G. and Jean K. made these bags in the February workshop. Linda shows it closed and Jean is showing it open. It's a really neat bag that you can flip over your arms and wear backpack style or carry over your shoulder like a regular purse. Great job girls.

Marijke H. confessed that she didn't like doing prarie

points, but didn't she do a great job on this sweet little quilt.

Sandy Mac. made this Karen Henry inspired dragonfly wallhanging. It was made using non-traditional quilting fabrics like organza so that parts of it are "see-through".

It was stunning.

Doesn't Tracy H's bali batik Strip Cocktail quilt look stunning? Love those batiks!

Valerie M. finished this lovely landscape with dimensional leaves.

Stay tuned for more Show and Tell quilts!

Reminder - Pot Luck and AGM - Tues May 18

2010-05-11T01:02:00.000-03:00

The May meeting is our Annual General Meeting (and Election of Officers) and also a Pot Luck dinner - Tuesday May 18th.

The Pot Luck will be held at the Johnson Avenue Senior Center starting at 6:30 PM SHARP. Please bring foods ready to serve-Hot foods Hot and Cold foods Cold! (to save the dishwashing committee some work, please bring your own plate, utencils and cutlery. You can bring them home with your casserole dishes and wash them at home)

Spring Themed Blocks - Remember, all members interested in participating in the "Spring-themed" block draw, bring them along. Make an 8 ½ “(finished 8”) spring themed block on a cream background. Every block will give you a ballot for the draw(s) depending on the number of entries. Are you looking for a little inspiration. Go here to Quilters Cache and scroll through the 8" block section. Be sure to check the measurements to ensure it is an 8.5" block that finishes to 8".

Membership Renewal: You will be able to renew your membership at the potluck. Be sure to complete the form that was delivered in your April Newsletter. Dues are $30.00 for regular members; $15.00 for associate members.

Embroidery Floss - Pippa Moore is collecting un-wanted embroidery flosses again this year for her teaching trip to Africa next winter. If you have any flosses that you would like to donate to Pippa, please pass them on to Gail Mitchell. She will be sending them to Pippa in October.

Show and Tell - Bring show and tell, be it new or old. Let's get new inspiration, even from older projects. The more the merrier.

Have you had your first feed yet?

2010-05-10T12:00:00.001-03:00

Of fiddleheads that is. Sometimes in the excitement of the first fiddleheads of the year, one might cook too many. Why not use up those leftovers in this delicious Fiddlehead Soup.

This recipe comes from Monica Washburn when she submitted it to our Guild's year 2000 cookbook, "Put This on Your Dresden Plate" Too. This recipe book was a sequel to our first cookbook "Put This on Your Dresden Plate".

Fiddlehead Soup

1/2 cup chopped cooked fiddleheads
1/4 cup butter
1 tbsp chopped onion
2 chicken bouillon cubes
3 tbsp flour
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dry mustard
2 cups milk
2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt.

Cook and chop fiddleheads. Dissolve chicken cubes in boiling water. Melt butter and saute onions until tender. Blend in flour, paprika, mustard and salt. Gradually stir in milk and chicken bouillon water and cook over medium heat until it comes to a boil and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Add fiddleheads. You can also add a cubed potato to the soup.

Leave us a comment if you try it. We know you'll love it. We'll forward all comments to Monica.

PS: Did you know that the word fiddlehead is not in the blogger's dictionary?

Quilt Show Change of Venue

2010-05-04T10:02:00.000-03:00

Quilt ShowFor anyone planning to attend the Keswick Ridge Quilters Quilt Show this weekend, please note there is a change of venue. It will NOT be held at the United Church as previously planned due to a church emergency. The new location is the Keswick Baptist Church at Mouth of Keswick. The address is 59 Route 104, just up from Keswick Landing, at the turn off to Burtts Corner. This is pretty much at the juncture of Routes 104 and 105. Please spread the word of this change...

New items on the FQG Blog

2010-05-03T07:00:00.000-03:00

We have added some information from the Gathering of the Guilds.. We have added links to other New Brunswick Quilters' Guilds on our sidebar. Check it out. We have also updated the Events links with many quilt shows that are scheduled in 2010.

Stay tuned. When Linda Hubbard returns from Quilt Canada, I'm sure she'll have lots of pictures to show us.

Guild Ideas from the Gathering of the Guilds Conference - Part 2

2010-05-01T16:41:00.000-03:00

Here are more great ideas from Barb's notes.

Hobo Lunch Challenge where each participant was required to provide fabrics inspired by the “recipe” and then ties them to a stick in a bundle. Fabric bundles were exchanged and projects were made from only those fabrics.
Jelly Bean Draw where members are asked to bring a fabric strip 2.5 inches wide, each month being a different colour scheme. One person who has participated by bringing fabric in goes home with the jellyroll made from the strips. They also have a draw for a bag of jelly beans.
Another challenge was a Christmas challenge where the challenge coordinator handed out fabric with instructions to create a strip with a Christmas theme. It could be one fabric and you add other fabric, or it could be two or more pieces. These are brought back at the Christmas party and judged as best in show, or drawn for by those who participated.
Out of the Box Challenge, where in the fall box tops were distributed to members and they were challenged to make a quilt, the size could range from 18 inches square to a bed quilt. At least three colours from the box top had to be used with one additional colour added by the participant. The judging categories included most creative use of colour, most attractive, best quilting (hand or machine), most creative interpretation of package, most literal or representational design of package and favorite/best in show.
Tickets by the arm, every meeting the guild sells tickets on a quilting prize such as charm packs, layer cakes, and jelly rolls. Tickets are one for twenty five cents, five for a loony or an “arm length” for a toonie. The advice was to have your arm lengths pre-cut because they go fast.
Christmas “Money Tree” which is a small Christmas tree decorated with 50 scratch tickets, and they sell tickets on the tree.
Brown Bag exchange early in the fall where there is usually a fat quarter and it is crafted into an inspired gift and returned at the December meeting. This guild have also used the Brown Bag to provide required items needed by local community organization such as the SPCA, soup kitchen, women’s shelter etc.
Silent auction at Christmas with the proceeds going to a charity.
“Ripped off” challenge where each member brings a brown bag with a piece of materiel in it and the bags are exchanged like musical chairs, then they start to rip the material till you have a certain size (predetermined) and keeping one piece you pass the bags around. The challenge is to make something with all the material you end up with.
“Pizza Box project” where those that wanted to take part made a block for the box which they took home for a month. Each box had a different theme and some theme material to use in the block. The box was traded each month. At the end of the year a draw was held for those who had participated to get the various boxes.
Round Robins, such as doing one involving borders, where the owner made the centre block and the next four borders made by different individuals using a specific theme.
Fabric shuffle where members are challenged to make something out of the fabric they receive.
Theme exchange where members were challenged to make blocks of a specified size and colour, and then they are either raffled or drawn for.
Game of name the block contest.

Now all this is great stuff to start planning for next year's guild activities. Happy Stitching and Happy Planning!!

Guild Ideas from the Gathering of the Guilds Conference - Part 1

2010-04-29T12:55:00.001-03:00

Barb Perry brought back some great ideas from the Gathering of the Guilds. I thought I'd share a few of her notes in 2 blog posts.

Barb noted that one of the most popular activities that most of the guilds organized, was a Block of the month. Just look at the many ways that this activity can be organized.

At one guild, a member or a group would be responsible for deciding the Block of the Month and providing the information monthly to those members who wanted to participate. Each member participating would complete the blocks and have a quilt/topper to show at the end of the year social/potluck.
One Guild utilized the relationship with a local Quilt shop to coordinate the block of the month activity.
One Guild has a block of the month demo.
Another Guild provide a different block pattern each month and ask their members to bring back at least one block and the blocks were raffled off in groups of twelve. Examples of blocks were framed nine patch, another was an Ohio Star where the participants were challenged to find as many variations as possible (the winner had 27 blocks).
There was a theme exchange to make blocks of a specified size, theme and colour in one of the guilds.
Another Guild had two coordinators who provided the pattern and instructions for the block and the members brought the completed block back to the following meeting when their name would go into a draw to win the blocks for that month. The coordinators are responsible for the pattern and the theme for the year.
The majority of the guilds participated in block of the month or block exchanges. They noted that members were expected to bring something back by a specific date to show other Guild members.
Three month mystery quilt was done by one of the guilds.

Did you ever imagine that there are so many ways to do a Block of the Month. Check back tomorrow and I'll give you Barbs great notes on more fun activities for your guild.

NB Gathering of the Guilds 2010

2010-04-27T21:34:00.001-03:00

Barb Perry and Alice Kirkpatrick attended the Gathering of the Guilds last weekend in Sussex, NB. Lois Mehan and Valerie Moreland were in attendance also and were quickly put to work during the show and tell part of the presentation. Each guild brought a sheet to hang samples of their workshops and their banner. Thanks to the Quilting Queen at Love to Quilt for this picture of the FQG sheet presentation.

Each of the NB Guilds presented activities within their guild over the past two years. Everyone is amazed at the wealth of ideas that were shared. Each guild was given a binder with the presentations from each guild so that ideas can be taken back to the guilds.

Watch for a series of blog posts in the next few days and we'll post a few ideas that came out of the gathering. Also check out the Love to Quilt's blog for photos taken at the GOG. She was the official photographer on the organizing committee.

A Peek at the Manitoba Prairie Quilters Quilt Show

2010-04-21T08:01:00.000-03:00

Want to see a nice little quilt show. Joanne at Threadhead has shared some photos she took at a recent quilt show put on by the Manitoba Prairie Quilters. These quilts are most inspiring.

Can you ever have too many table runners. Check out Joanne's table runner tutorial here.

Be sure to drop her a comment if you enjoyed visiting her site.

Bits and Bytes - notes

2010-04-18T21:16:00.000-03:00

As promissed at the meeting on April 2oth, here are some links to references made in the program.

EQ Software - http://www.electricquilt.com/ - is a software used to design quilts. There are many quilting software packages in this website.

Sew Precise by EQ - click here - a software that will print paper piecing patterns

Print graph paper - click here for a free site that will print various graph papers including hexagons.

Online Learning - http://www.lquilt.com/ - 50% off classes for a limited time.

Free DIY Bag tutorials - http://www.diybaglover.blogspot.com/

Memberships - http://www.thequiltshow.com/

Free quilt videos - http://www.quilterstv.com/

Quilters News network - http://www.qnntv.com/

Search 225 quiltshops online - http://www.quiltshops.com/

Remember to email for specific shipping charges before ordering.

Guild Meeting Reminder - April 20

2010-04-12T07:53:00.000-03:00

A reminder to our guild members about our April meeting.

The program has Gail Mitchell and Kathy Feltmate talking about ways they use computers in quilting. What is a blog anyway? Searching for inspiration? Taking a quilting class online!

If you have any specific questions you'd like to ask, give us some heads up and we'll answer.

April Workshop

2010-04-11T19:59:00.000-03:00

Our upcoming workshop on April 17th has a few spaces still available. The project is a fabric totebag or purse made with a "star" construction method, and it will be taught by Dawn Sharpe and Robyn Allaby. It's a cute bag with a zipper closure concealed by velcro and has pockets inside and out. The straps are 30" to allow it to be "worn" over the shoulder, but these could be lengthened or shortened to suit your body/needs. Robyn suggests that you would get the bag finished or very close to completion in the workshop.

If you are interested, give Worshop Registrar Barb Frame a call at 459-4732.

Trend-Tex Challenge 2010

2010-04-08T23:49:00.000-03:00

Many of the quilts submitted for this year's Trend-Tex Challenge have just been posted on the CQA website. You can view them by clicking here. If you click on the first quilt, you can view a larger image; then if you hover your cursor over the top right hand corner of the photo, you 'll be able to click on "Next" and view the entire collection.
If you are not familiar with this Challenge, this is how it works: Each summer/fall, the Vice President of CQA/ACC visits Trend-Tex Fabrics and chooses five fabrics for the Challenge and chooses the Theme. These fabrics are then cut into fat quarters and made up into kits. The kit can be purchased for $20.00. Each entrant is encouraged to use the 5 fabrics to make a piece on the chosen theme and return it to CQA. All five fabrics must be visible on the front of the quilt. (Up to 3 additional fabrics may be added). The pieces are displayed in a Show at the annual Conference and they are auctioned off (most by Silent Auction) as a fundraiser. The pieces that are returned by the deadline are judged, and prizes are announced and awarded at the Conference. Besides 1st, 2nd and 3rd, there is also the Trend Tex Award for best use of fabric (to be eligible for this award, only the 5 provided fabrics may be used on the front of the quilt.) The Trend Tex Award winner is not auctioned, but given to Trend Tex Fabrics as a thank you for their generous donation of the fabric. Honourable Mentions and Judge's Choice awards may also be given and a Viewer's Choice Award is announced at the Closing Banquet.
This year's theme was "The Sky's the Limit". I hope you enjoy viewing this amazing collection of wallquilts.

Spring is just around the corner....

2010-03-31T22:47:00.000-03:00

... and with it come Quilt Shows! Yeah! There is a list of upcoming Shows in the Maritimes in our sidebar- it will be updated as we hear of others. In the meantime, would you like to go on an armchair tour? Gail and I both browse through alot of Blogs... One I check in on frequently is True Blue Canadian in Toronto. The last few days she has posted pics from the Etobicoke Quilters' Guild Show last weekend. You can view her posts and see many of the quilts by clicking here, here and here. Enjoy! Leave a comment below and tell us if you enjoy this sort of thing. If so, we'll take you off on free tours of other shows- the next one I have in mind is a huge show in Tokyo.

Meeting Reminder

2010-03-14T23:07:00.000-03:00

How fast the weeks fly by! This is meeting week again. Hope to see you this Tuesday night, March 16th. Our program will be a presentation by local artist Alexandrya Eaton. She will be talking to us about color, and sharing slides of her work. I'm sure we'll all pick up some tips for confidence in the use of color. Remember too, to pick up your FQG Retreat application from Jean Street at this meeting. Workshop spaces are still available for our March and April workshops, and don't forget to check out our Library! Do you have something to share with us at Show and Tell? See you there!

Ricky Tims Seminar Update...

2010-03-13T22:54:00.000-04:00

By now FQG members have received the first "email blast" from Ricky Tims. If you have not read the previous posts about our wonderful experience at the Seminar in 2008 you can find them here and here. The video attached to the email you got gives you a fairly good idea of what it's all about, but if you have questions, please don't hesitate to leave a comment here at the end of this post or contact Linda Hubbard. We have started a list of interested people and have several names already. It IS a great Seminar, worth every penny, we all agreed. Remember you do not take machines, fabric, sewing supplies - nope - all you take is a pen and your enthusiam! Why not join the fun?

Upcoming Workshop

2010-03-09T13:06:00.000-04:00

Our upcoming workshop in March has spaces available. The project is a Stained Glass Christmas Tree Skirt, and will be taught by member Helen Steeves, on March 20th at our usual location, the Senior's Center on Johnson Avenue. Knowing Helen, there will be lots of fun and laughter, plus you'll get an early jump on a Christmas project- lovely for a gift or under your own tree. You know how busy things get in November and December, so why not start early and have fun with a group of quilting friends too!

If you are interested in joining in, please contact Workshop Registrar Priscilla Plourde at 454-1913 or by email at pplourde1913@rogers.com

Blankets for Haiti..THANK YOU!!!

2010-03-02T17:41:00.000-04:00

This blog affords us a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other a little better. Dawn Sharpe has joined the Executive this year, heading up our Community Projects, and what a great addition to our team!

Dawn is recently retired from the Emergency department at the DECH (although she still spends many hours there filling in when they are short-staffed) and is enjoying more time at her sewing machine, making quilts, draperies and various other projects. Dawn is one of the kindest, most thoughtful and generous people I know; she is always there when family, friends or neighbours need help, and she has instilled these traits in her family as well. Dawn raised a family of seven- six boys plus daughter Robyn, also a FQG member, and what a fine family they are.

Dawn's son Chris had travelled to Haiti 13 times to help set up, build and maintain an orphanage in Jacmel. Upon hearing of the recent tragic earthquake there, he knew he had to return to help out wherever he could. Within the first few days when things were rather chaotic, Chris was instrumental in helping the Canadian military organize and arrange access to Haiti. After listening to CBC radio, and hearing of the chaos and confusion over how to land and get supplies and equipment in to Port au Prince, he called CBC to tell them there was another way. He was passed on to someone in Toronto, and before long was telling the Canadian military of the airstrip and deep water port in Jacmel. Suffice it to say that they were very grateful for Chris's first hand knowledge and experience in the area. Chris was on his way to Jacmel a few days later, and worked with our Canadian troops while there, serving as a liaison between the Mayor of Jacmel and other "Officials" there and the military.

Upon his return to Fredericton, Dawn asked her son what we here could do to help. He replied that although the days were warm, it became quite cool overnight; the orphans would huddle together in groups on the ground at night to stay warm. He said he slept with his jacket over him and was still cold. So Dawn launched the "Blankets for Haiti " project. She asked staff she knew at the Hospital, Robyn mentioned it to staff at FHS, and our Guild was approached to donate fleece or to actually make fleece blankets. These will be shipped, with other supplies and materials that are being collected at O'Leary Pontiac. Dawn was hoping to receive 100 blankets.

Jerry O'Leary is well known in Fredericton for the work he has done in Jacmel with the present orphange. Now they are planning the construction of a second one. Upon speaking with Chris today, he explained to me that the Haitians are now terrifed to sleep in concrete buildings. They want nothing to do with any concrete structures, so the metal containers that will be shipped will be emptied, and then used to actually form the basic structure of the new orphange.

Dawn, Robyn and Chris are thrilled with the response they received: over 280 blankets! Thank you so much to all our members who were so generous in donating finished blankets, fleece or money for fleece, for this worthwhile project. God bless!!

Meeting Reminder...

2010-02-15T13:21:00.000-04:00

February meeting is this week - Tuesday Feb.16th. We have a lot of members away this month so we sure hope to see YOU there. We have an excellent program lined up- learning stations to benefit all.. those of us who feel we are "beyond beginner" can always use some refreshing! Don't forget workshop sign-ups (see post below), a visit to our extensive Library, the "Help" desk, Show and Tell, and more! See you there... 7:30 sharp....

Upcoming Bear Paw Workshop

2010-02-09T12:50:00.000-04:00

Our upcoming workshop in February has spaces available. It will be taught by member Barb Foster on Feb. 20th at our usual meeting place on Johnson Avenue. Barb will be teaching a bias strip piecing method for doing half square triangles, which is very fast and accurate. Students will complete a 14" block from two fat quarters, a block large enough for a shopping bag or wallhanging. Or you might choose to continue on for a larger quilt. It's up to you! Barb will also share a number of variations for this traditional "old favourite"block! This class is suitable for Beginners and beyond.

Click here to see lots of Bear Paw quilts for ideas amd inspiration! If you would like to join us for this workshop, call Workshop Registrar Barb Frame at 459-4732.

By the way, did you know that "Bear Paw" is one of the oldest known quilt patterns? The story of this pattern begins even before pieced quilts became common around the mid 1800's. Earlier quilts were commonly medallion style surrounded by several borders; a sawtooth border was often used. Of course methods used to piece a border could easily be adapted to a block. The Sawtooth block appeared in many early quilts along with Sawtooth stars and diamonds and what became known as BearPaw. As with many patterns, Bear Paw became known by other names too, and each of these names also apply to one or more designs. Bear Paw has also been known as Duck's Foot in the Mud, Hand of Friendship, Tea Leaf and Cats Paw.

Ricky Tims Super Seminar, Part Two

2010-01-31T21:57:00.000-04:00

At the January FQG meeting, we made an attempt to give you a small sample of the many things we learned at the Seminar. We barely scratched the surface. As well as the presentations by Ricky, Libby and Alex, we also had a session with Bob Purcell, President of Superior Threads. He taught us a great deal about threads in a very short time! Here are just a few of the things we learned:

* Not all threads are colorfast, in particular, hand-dyed threads and some rayons.

* Throw away your nylon thread. If you want an "invisible" monofilament thread, buy polyester. Nylon melts, gets brittle after time and it "yellows". If your spool is labelled polyamide, you've got nylon..

* Always use a size 90/14 Topstitch or Metallic needle (deeper groove and bigger eye) and loosen the top tension when stitching with metallic threads.

* When deciding what weight of thread you will use for machine quilting, remember it depends whether you want the thread to blend or stand out. "Heavy to show, thin to blend."

* Polyester thread will not tear your fabric.

* All sensitive threads prefer a vertical spool pin.

* Problems with specialty threads can usually be traced to these causes: 1. Quality (buy good quality thread). 2. Needles (select the right type and put in a new needle with each new project). 3. Tension (running your machine always at the same tension setting is like buying a new TV and never changing the channel). 4. Condition of machine (keep your machine clean and in good condition).

Lastly, here are a few quotes from the Seminar sessions which are good reminders to us all:

~ Nothing is ever a failure if you learn from it.

~ You have to become your own Quilt Police.

~ Quilts take a really long time to finish when you're not working on them.

~ Finish the ones that deserve it, and realize some deserve to die.

~ The best gift God has given you is TIME : know how to use it.

This barely scratches the surface of all we learned at the Seminar. Remember the Seminar will be held in Hyannis Massachusetts in September 2010. If you would like to attend, leave a comment with your name here, or get in touch with Linda Hubbard (455-1825) . We will be "collecting" names and hopefully get enough for a group registration and a significant savings to you. (You will not in any way be obligated to travel together as a group. )

Just a reminder, you can click on these photos for a closer look.

Ricky Tims Super Seminar

2010-01-29T02:23:00.000-04:00

The January Guild program informed us all of the Ricky Tims Super Seminars. These take place 4 times a year around the U.S. They do not come to Canada, unfortunately (too much hassle at the border with quilts and inventory for sale) but they do try to hold at least one of the Seminars each year within a reasonable driving distance for many Canadians. Five FQG members have already attended RT Seminars. You could be next! (We attended the Seminar in the spring of 2008 in Glens Falls NY. Photos shown here are from the Glens Falls Seminar. You can click on these for a much closer look.)

The Seminar is 2.5 days in length and always follows the same schedule, beginning on a Thursday afternoon and finishing on Saturday at 5:30pm. There are 10 sessions, 6 done by Ricky, and 2 each by Alex Anderson and Libby Lehman. Sessions are 1.5 hours each, broken up by generous "breaks"during which you can shop, get a closeup look at the quilts, or get an autograph or a photo taken with Ricky, Alex or Libby. The sessions are done theatre style - ie you don't have to bring anything other than a pen and your enthusiasm - no sewing machines to carry, no fabric to prepare, etc. You sit back in a comfy chair and listen, watch and learn! All the action takes place on a large stage with a giant screen behind- whatever is being done at a machine or on the cutting table is video'd and projected on the screen so you can see exactly what's happening. Every seat is a good seat! You don't even have to take notes as you are provided with a Syllabus of notes - 125 pages or so, complete with diagrams and color photos. Topics covered by Ricky include: Quilting Caveman Style, Convergence Quilts, Design Development, Flip 'n' Sew and Paper Piecing, Rhapsody Quilts, No Pins Precision Curved Piecing, No Pins Set -in Corners and Circles, Kaleidoscopes, Applique, Machine Quilting, Piped Bindings, Binding the Quilt by Machine, and Scalloped Bindings. Alex Anderson does two sessions on the topics of Hand Quilting and Fabric Selection. Libby Lehman's sessions are on Machine Applique and Sheer Ribbon Illusions. All sessions are enjoyable; info is presented clearly and concisely in a very organized manner, and presenters are happy to answer questions from the audience. There is lots of humour and it is very evident that all presenters are enjoying themselves as much as the audience is!

During the breaks, you can wander throught the quilt displays and see the quilts "up close and personal". You can shop at Ricky's booth for his books, DVD's, CD's, hand-dyed fabrics and notions that he likes and uses. You can get autographs and/or have your photo taken with Ricky, Libby and/or Alex. Because Bernina is a major Seminar sponsor, there is a local quilt shop/Bernina dealer booth where one can purchase Bernina machines, accessories and fabrics, threads, etc. (We counted over 100 machines sold, including one to a 101 year old quilter in attendance!!)

Besides being an amazing quilter and teacher, Ricky is also an incredibly talented musician, and puts on a wonderful concert on Friday evening, showing off his talents for playing a number of instruments. (This concert is open to the public, so if you are travelling with your husband or someone else, they can purchase a ticket for this concert.)

The next Super Seminar that is close to us will be held in Hyannis, Cape Cod, Mass. on September 2-4, 2010. FQG will be a promotional partner, meaning simply that we have agreed to help advertise this event. We will be placing more info on this Blog later on, and in our April newsletter. FQG members will also be receiving several emails in the spring. If you would like more info now, check out Ricky's website by clicking here or go to www.rickytims.com/ and click on "Quilt Pages", then "Seminars". If you think you'd like to attend this Seminar, you will notice that the cost is less if you have a group. If you register singly, the cost is $219.00 US funds. If there is a group of 2-9 people, you save $25.00 and pay $194.00 US each. A group of 10 or more pays $179.00 each. So let us know if you are interested in going; we will be taking names to do a group registration. Leave a comment here or contact Linda at (506) 455-1825. This is open to any quilters in our area, not only FQG members. Stay tuned for more info on our next post...

Reminder of Guild Meeting - Tuesday January 18 at 7:30

2010-01-14T18:43:00.000-04:00

Be sure to attend the Fredericton Quilters Guild meeting this Tuesday. The meeting starts at 7:30 sharp. For those who have quilting questions, or need advice, or help with a problem, Lois Mehan will be available to help you at 7 pm.

The program has members telling you about their experiences when they attended the Ricky Tims Super Seminars. You don't want to miss this program.

Want to become a member of the Fredericton Quilters Guild?

2010-01-14T15:31:00.000-04:00

If you would like to become a member of the Fredericton Quilters' Guild, we would love to have you, no matter your skill level. Please contact Jeanne-Kaye Speight at 452-1875 or email Jeanne-Kaye at rspeight@nbnet.nb.ca.