WIP Wednesday - pretty pillow in progress

This is what the top of my sewing area looks like right now.

Just like this actually.

This pillow will be going to the lovely Crystal.  And bless her for her patience.  She sent me some lovely sewing seeds fabric months ago as the other half of the swap.

But since it's even prettier in person than in this picture, I don't think she'll mind.

Linking to Lee's.

P.S. Thanks for all the thoughtful responses to my ponderings last week!  I'm replying to the emails, but slowly...

all quilters welcome.

Every now and then, a little controversy blows through blog land. 
I usually stay out of it.  In the past I've been pregnant, or with a new baby, or just too busy with the stuff of life to chime in.  Or I'm not on Instagram and I miss it.

But the quilt blog world is a small place (part of its charm in my opinion).

The other night my dear friend posted about how her quilts were received at Quilt Con (which I didn't go to -- I'm a stay at home mom and just can't justify gallivanting off to expensive things like this even if they sound fun).  I didn't enter any quilts.  I think I was trying to keep up on my laundry or something when the announcement came around.  But I read my friend's post, got defensive for her (I am nothing if not loyal), and then got thinking.  And I did a bit of exploring.  And heard a few rumors about how the show was judged and how it didn't work(ed).  

I re-read the comments that were given back to my friend on her work, and I was frankly flabbergasted.  Then in the comments, I read that her experience was not unique and I was frustrated.  Not because I think that I am a qualified quilt judge (not at all!) but I was disappointed for another reason that I'm going to try to explain here...


I was a high school English teacher before my son was born.  I made it my personal crusade to try to teach my students to write.  I doubt very many of you have ever tried to teach high school students (from a small farming community, half of whom learned English as a second language), to create a cohesive piece of academic writing, but it is exceptionally challenging.  I judged every draft of my student's work.  My feedback was definitely not all positive, but it was constructive, and it gave them a chance to improve, and after meeting with me or reading my grading notes, they felt confident to bring me their next draft until it met the goals of the assignment. 


Because I live forty miles out of town, and have two small children, I do not belong to a quilt guild.  There is an active traditional one in a nearby town and one day I plan to join it.  I've thought about starting a modern one, but due to the aforementioned factors, I let it go for a thought down the road (I really was just wanting to find more local sewing friends!  It is so nice to sew with people in real life!)

But now, this little "modern quilting" judging hub-bub has got me feeling a bit reactionary.  I used to see myself as a modern quilter, when their definition sounded like this: 

• ..."Modern quilting is sometimes difficult to define because in many ways the definition is as individual as the quilter - changing from quilter to quilter. In addition to reflecting the individual personality and personal style of the quilter, it also reflects the current aesthetic of the day.  Modern quilting is also about the attitude and the approach that modern quilters take. It respects the amazing artistry and talent of the tradition of quilting, while allowing the quilter to challenge the "rules". In fact, if there were one rule in modern quilting, it would be that there are no rules.  The concept of modern quilting is not meant to divide or segregate. It is meant to welcome new quilters, of all ages, to the world of quilting in a style that they can relate to. In many ways, modern quilting takes us back to the basics of the early quilters, when women of the day used the colors and styles of their time to express themselves creatively.

or this:

• Modern Quilting is a twist on traditional quilt. For each person this may have a different meaning. For some it is modification on the methods or materials they use in their quilts. For others it maybe the use of modern fabrics. Others may believe it has to do with the look of the quilt or a way of sharing the art of quilting. Around the internet you can find many definitions of modern quilting... Our guild is accepting of all members definitions of what a modern quilt is and what modern quilting means to them.

But now that it is this...

• We define modern quilts as quilts that are functional, include bold colors, and are inspired by modern design. Minimalism, asymmetry expansive negative space, and alternate grid work are often a part of modern quilt compositions, as are improvisational piecing and solid fabrics.

...I'm out.  
Too narrow of a definition for the range of quilts I like to make.

Though, perhaps an even better idea than distance, would be for the rest of us to take back the old definition.

All quilters welcome here.  


P.S. I originally didn't know who the judges were, and still don't know them, but I am familiar with some of their work.  I think they're talented women with much to offer the textile/craft world.  I just think the way the comments were done left much to be desired.  

oh I know Jack.

- still time to link up to this month's "Just Three" goals (I was a little late)...

I've been working on a custom quilt for a little guy who's Steiger's age.

I drafted this Union Jack, and it will be a focal point on a modified Bricks in Bloom type quilt in a twin size.

It took a bit of ripping, and a few re-starts, but I got it!  (though the red is a bit thin)

I paper-pieced the outer quadrants, and had to draw my lines on the back to stitch -- knowing that, would you all like a copy of this pattern?  I'd have to clean it up a bit, but would be willing to share.

And a big thanks to my Steiger for holding the block for a picture. :)

March - Just Three!

Hi!
It's already been March for a few days! (can you believe it???)

February was not terribly productive for traceyjay quilts.  Steiger and Scarlet were each sick for about 3 weeks out of the month. :(

BUT - say it with me... "it is what it is." 

Last month's report:

1)  Hmmm... I am thinking I want to finish my Chubby Stars.  I feel like it needs to be on my couch.  If not that quilt, then another old WIP.  Maybe if I do one/month I will get them all done this year. :)

Penny Candy is on its way to the quilter finally!  Does that count? ;)  

2) A couple little swap gifts -- I am making a pillow for Crystal, and a surprise for some of my quilty ladies who will be gathering without me (darn high cost of plane tickets!)  

I made a cute bag for Angela!  And I'm working on Crystal's pillow. :)

3) A super fun quilt that uses these:

I got this quilt top done!  Also on its way to the quilter!

__________________________________________

March's goals:

1) Make a baby quilt.  They're my favorite -- I have many WIPs to finish, or a new one to start.  This little bundle of Les Amis is calling me.

This is a card for my friend I made for her little shower.  They didn't peek, so this card was to tell her she'll get her baby's quilt when baby arrives.

hey -- in a month like this one, even little sewing "counts" ;)

2) Finish the Union Jack quilt for Ty.  

These are the fabrics I'm using.

I drafted this Union Jack pattern, and was so proud of myself for paper piecing it, but it didn't match my pattern for some reason???  So I have to try again unfortunately... (sadly this segment doesn't line up with any of them on the flag, and since the friend I'm making this for is actually from England, I thought I would fix it)

3) And these three!  These quilts are all going to Lindsay at Eileen Quilts (at some point, you just realize they're not going to get done without a little help -- thank you Lindsay!)  She is donating the quilting for Chelsa's Scrappy Sprouts -- so sweet of her! ♥  I am so looking forward to sitting on the couch and binding these. :)

Thanks for linking up!  Sorry again about the late post!

a little swap with friends

Oy!
It has been a week (or so!)

We got hit by the tummy flu.  It was brutal.  First time the kids have had a bad tummy bug, and they got hit hard the poor sweeties. ♥

That, and a bit of a health journey I'm on (hoping to blog more about it soon!), have taken up the majority of my sewing and blogging time.  (I have pickles on my counter fermenting right now).

BUT -- I got a little done.

I have a group of dear friends who got together in Atlanta this past weekend, and though I didn't get to go, they did include me in their gift exchange...

I sewed a little bag. (Pattern is in this book: Fabric-by-Fabric One-Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Projects Using Cottons, Knits, Voiles, Corduroy, Fleece, Flannel, Home Dec, Oilcloth, Wool, and Beyond)
  I love this echino blue polka dot!  This went to the lovely Angela.  She loves blue, and classy styles.  And I thought the pleats were cute.



And though I screwed up the gussets on the little pouch, I hope it still works!  (I figure she can give it to Caitlyn to use) ;)  That was my prototype, but I didn't have time to make it again sadly!

Kelly sent me a package of a cute, cute bag and little pouch.  They suit me perfectly, and the little posy fat quarters are my favorite color right now.  Thank you friend! ♥



Before the next gathering, I need to sell some quilts or something... it just stinks to have bosom friends who are so geographically far away!

The ladies called me while they were opening gifts and included me in the exchange (sweet, huh?).  I can't lie -- I started tearing up partway through.  My heart still aches a little that I was so far away...

Anyway - Hi to all of you!  The kids finally had a little bit more of an appetite yesterday and today (hallelujah!), so we are close to back to normal!  I also got out of the house yesterday for the first time since last Saturday.  Grocery shopping never felt so good.

(I've also listed a few destash items - if you want to take a look).

my little lady

She is sixteen months old today.
And we spent our morning at the doctor to make sure she didn't have an ear infection.  I was relieved that her two week grumpiness has just been a cold and the fact that she has cut 6 teeth in the last two weeks, with two more swelling up her little gums. (yes... poor baby/poor mama).

BUT -- last month, when she turned 15 months old, I was remembering when I talked about her brother at the same age, so Scarlet baby, this post is for you...

Thank you for the quilt Amanda!  We LOVE it!

• You dance.  You shake your arms, pump your fists in the air, and try to shake your booty.  You (and your brother) both love Gangman Style. :)
• You snuggle in so cozy when it's nap time and bed time.  It has been mama's favorite time of the day the last couple weeks, and reminds me of what a sweetie you are.  You fell asleep on my chest this morning while I was trying to keep you quiet so Daddy could have a few more minutes of sleep.
• You go crazy for bananas.  I have to hide them, or you'll see them on the counter and throw a fit if I don't give you one.  Even if you've already had two for the day.  You're trying to say "nana."
• You are SO in to books lately as well.  You grab them, bring them over, and plop yourself on one of our laps.
• You suck your thumb and hold a blankie when you're tired.  Your grandma tells me that your mama did the same thing. ;)

• You do a "boo boo lip" and "shaky face" on command.  

• If I shower when you're awake, you like to open, and slam the door.  You crack up when I say "whoa!"
• Your best word is "uh oh."  You say "mama," "Daddy," and try to say "Elli," and I think you try to say "Steiger."
• Your hair is so wispy. And blonde.  I'm still surprised by how blonde you are!
• You love Elli.  She is so good at putting up with you when you "pet" her, or pull her tail, or take over her bed.

• You can be quite animated, and walk around saying "whoa whoa whoa whoa." 

• You understand A LOT.  I can give you directions, and you follow them (unless you're in one of your diva moods.)  But normally, you love to help.  I often can't keep up with all your helping and trying to figure things out, and I'll find you doing something like this on your own. You've been known to put dirty silverware away, or fill the washing machine with a new load. :)

• You are a mama's girl.  You still love to be worn, and you scream at anyone who you perceive as coming between us.  Even your Papa.

• You're pretty good with a light saber (aka swiffer handle).  Steiger calls you his Padawan.
• You're tall for your age (97% a couple months ago!).  You did not get this from me.
• You like to put on your brother's shoes or slippers and wander around the house proudly.
• You've discovered babies.

• You think burping and tooting is hilarious, and try to imitate the sound. And then laugh.
• You learned to say "please," this week.
• You are enthusiastic. And it shows.

Scarlet, you make all of us smile.  Every day.  And as Steiger would say, "We love you more than you know."  Your fresh little face, and sassy little steps, and tender little needs, and tenacious little spirit, and joyful little heart sure make me blessed to be your mama. ♥

sprucing up. (and last day of sale)

Reminder: you have a few more days to link up with February's "Just Three" goals!

Bummer about those Niners, huh?  I suppose two huge comebacks for two games in a row was asking a bit much... During the game, I was able to get all my template sets organized to ship, and a new quilt laid out at least, so it wasn't all a loss. :)

And I updated my blog header.

Not a huge change --

This was the old one:

It's also the last day to get all patterns and acrylic template sets on sale (also on Craftsy).  20% off through Monday!  A great big thank you to those who placed an order... I'd like to say I am doing something glamorous with the proceeds, (you know, like buying fabric), but it's being reinvested in to what I hope can be a growing little business one day.  Everything is definitely in the just starting out phase, but a girl can dream!  So thank you!  I really am grateful! ♥

I've also been listing some destash items if you want to check those out!