Tame the scraps

I came across a blog post (and I'm sorry I can't remember who posted) sharing how she used photo boxes to store her scraps. I liked the idea, and having a couple of boxes, I set about to tame the scraps.

Started with one of several baskets full of scraps.

And here they are, sorted into the photo and shoe boxes.

They will stack nicely in the closet.

Much better!

Memorial Day

 

Memorial Day is a truly patriotic holiday which is celebrated on the last Monday in May. It is a day set apart for remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the American Armed Forces.

In 1971 Congress passed a law making Memorial Day a national holiday. Typical Memorial Day celebrations include parades, special programs and speeches. Americans often attend picnics and baseball games, and almost any other type of outdoor event made possible by the freedom these soldiers died to protect. This holiday is the unofficial beginning of summer.

"I have never been able to think of the day as one of mourning; I have never quite been able to feel that half-masted flags were appropriate on Decoration Day. I have rather felt that the flag should be at the peak, because those whose dying we commemorate rejoiced in seeing it where their valor placed it. We honor them in a joyous, thankful, triumphant commemoration of what they did."
Benjamin Harrison,the 23rd President of the United States.

Thank you.

Hands2Help final

 

Hands2Help Comfort Quilt Challenge, has been an ongoing quilt challenge for several years. I finally finished the binding of the last quilt and am ready to send the rest of them out.

These are going to the Little Lambs foundation for kids.

And I'm sending these to Quilty Hugs for Happy Chemo.  I had already sent a box to MCC. 

Praying these quilts will bring a little bit of sunshine into someone's life.

                                      Sew and Tell

                                      Can I Get a Whoop Whoop?

                                      Finished or not Friday

                                      Peacock Party

Spring cleaning

It is wise to regularly clean your machine. Sometimes we get in a hurry and forget that our machine has been a little work horse. It's a good habit to clean and check your machine after you have sewn a couple of projects. 

I use this kit that attaches to my vacuum cleaner. It has several different size attachments to get to all the places you need to clean out. 

Take the throat plate out, remove the bobbin, bobbin case and hook race (if you have one). Clean under the feed dogs and around the bobbin area with a small brush. 

Don't forget to add a drop of oil to the hook before returning it to the machine. Check your machines manual regarding any area that might need oiling. Using only a small drop for each spot. 

One final hint. Always unplug your machine when you finish for the day. If for some chance there is a power surge, your machine, especially ones with electronics, will fry.

A surge protector will help, but we had a TV fry from a surge, even with a protector. Unplugging only takes a minute, and can save you a headache and a bundle.

You can easily maintain your sewing machine by yourself, but it is good to have your dealer check it over every couple of years. Your machine is your best friend and will give you years of service if you take the time to care for it properly. 

Happy Quilting!

Vintage sheets

I have been enamored with Vintage sheets. I had a few sheets, but after seeing some quilts made up in blog land, I've been on the hunt for them.

This quilt sent me over the edge and gave me a goal. Check it out.

Anyone Can Quilt

I've collected quite a few but Vintage sheets are getting harder to find in our area. And I am having a hard time cutting into these lovely oldies. Has anyone experienced this problem?

When hubbys away.......

 

Saturday my hubby was out of town, so I figured it was time to visit one of my favorite quilt shops.

Country Quilts and Bears is not a large quilt shop. But it is homey and has fabric that I love. They lean more to the traditional side. 

They offer classes, but as the owners are getting up there in age, there aren't as many as in years past.

I saw this and fell in love............

I bought the pattern but they did not have the jelly roll. Does anyone recognize the fabric line?

First box

 I have sent off my first box for the Hands2Help challenge. They are quilt tops going to help folks who have lost so much. 

These are unfinished tops that MCC will finish and donate. These tops were too large for me to quilt since I sold my HandiQuilter. Thank you MCC for doing this for so many who have lost everything.

                                      Sew and Tell

                                      Can I Get a Whoop Whoop?

                                      Finished or not Friday

                                      Peacock Party