Say It Isn't Sew!

I have been stumbling across some blogs lately.  Quilting blogs.  Oh they are so lovely, intricate, and dangerous all at the same time.  You see, I had this idea in my head when we first got married that I was going to learn how to quilt.  Hubby bought me a Singer sewing machine for our first anniversary gift. Don't worry.  I asked for the sewing machine.  So I totally didn't see it like a blender gift...you know...like on Father of the Bride?  *wink*  That Singer has since been replaced by an awesome Janome HD1000!!  Yes, another gift requested by moi...Christmas a few years ago from my hubby and my mom.  Love it!!!  Anywho...back to my first quilting idea...

I thought I would start quilting so I put down a chunk of change for a quilting hoop, fabric scissors, rotary cutter, self-healing mat, quilting thread, needles, fabric galore, patterns...need I say more?  I worked away at tracing and cutting out my pieces for four of the many blocks of this queen size quilt that I could just imagine draped across our bed.  Well...after putting together the first few blocks its was um...obvious...quilting was not my thing.  *sigh*  So all of those quilting notions either sat and collected dust, got used over the years, or sold at a garage sale.  Fast forward 16+ years and I have to say that this crafty mama has come a long way.  That quilting fiasco was just enough to guide me into my crafting life.  I am now a stamper, scrapbooker, stitcher, crafter of all things miscellaneous (there's not much I won't try at least...well, except for knitting.  Can you say NOT happening?!).  I now know how to handle my sewing machine.  I know how to sew clothing...not that I find it very exciting (more like stressful)...but I know how to do it. Properly. Kinda.   A-hem.

I've come a long way, but not long enough. Thinking about quilting again makes my palms sweat.  Makes me weak in the knees.  Makes me start biting my lip.  Yes I do that.  A lot.  But.  I have come across some blogs recently that are just begging me to give it a try.  Again.  Luring me to come back to that part of the crafting world.  Calling my name in colors so beautiful that I just don't know how long I can resist.  (There should be a self-help group for this, you know.)  These fabrics and designs are just so beautiful that I have to share them with you!  Ready?  Hold on to your sewing machines! 

I first came across Sweetwater and their lovely patterns about a month ago.  I love their patterns, the fabrics, the style.  Well, be prepared.  I'm going to say that about all these ladies.  *smile*

Isn't this bunting gorgeous?!

They have a book that I must have!
Sweetwater's Simple Home: Sew Something Handmade for Every Room

Then I came across Camille and her lovely fabrics and quilt designs...

 She has a book out, too!
Simplify with Camille Roskelley: Quilts for the Modern Home
I need this one, too! If for nothing, but to drool over the fabrics and patterns.

Some gorgeous patterns by Camille.

 This pattern is for a sewing machine cover.  I think I'm going to have to make one some day, but in black, tan, and burgundy...you know the colors of my craft room. 

How can you deny all these lovely fabrics?!  **drool**

(Maybe what I need is just a few pretty shelves of fabric to stare at and I'll be o.k.?  Naaaah.)

I also happened upon Figs Tree Quilts.

I love the color combinations!

(Sorry for such a small picture.)  

And lastly, because I think some of you might have eyes glazing over in pure boredom here.  This is a quilt I really need to make.  Super cute!

All the ruffles!  The colors!  Love it!

O.K.  I know I said "Lastly" but really..one more.  Kimberly has some lovely things at

My Brown Bag Studio

She makes lots of lovelies like this...

and this...

Beautiful, huh?  I can only dream of being so crafty! 

O.K....ya'll can resume your normal lives now.  Go on.  Look for a recipe for dinner.  Make some spiced chai.  Peruse my menu plans.  I'm done talking about it.  For now.  I think.  *wink*

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