Calitz Sewing and Quilting

New Day New Blog

2011-06-06T18:50:00.000+02:00

This blog will be discontinued

please to to The Quilting Studio blog

See you all there
Love Susan

Design wall "The Official One"

2011-04-25T19:14:00.000+02:00

At last the official design wall is being used!

The blocks on it are samples to hang in the Studio

The Studio will be opening Mid May and I am so excited.

Sample Blocks The First on the Design Wall

Watch this space!!!

Susan

What has been happening?

2011-04-08T12:30:00.000+02:00

Life has taken a sharp turn.

For the better.

Here is what has been going on:

This is the workshop before........

This is "the Studio" almost,nearly ready

I am very excited about the opening of "The Quilting Studio"
I will be able to give classes and workshops as well as sell fabrics and quilting related items
WATCH THIS SPACE!!
Susan

Design wall 28 February

2011-02-28T11:27:00.000+02:00

My design wall today is the diningroom chair.

I have started a new quilt.

It is a single wedding ring block

which was demo'd at our last guild meeting

I think this will make a wonderful quilt

I have also finished the log cabin top but for one last border

Thanks to Judy at http://www.patchworktimes.com/ for the challenge.

Happy quilting and sewing

Susan

Design wall 21 February 2011

2011-02-21T18:31:00.001+02:00

This time my design wall is the floor!

All the blocks are done for the log cabin

They have been labled so that I sew them together in the right order.

Log cabin blocks set out

I have also completed my "sister quilt"
This I will be taking to our guild meeting tomorrow for
show and tell.

I have also been very busy with customers quilts and have
quilted 4 tops this month with another waiting on the frame

Until next time

Happy quilting

Susan

First sock!

2011-01-27T09:03:00.000+02:00

Here is my first sock.

I think it looks super and

I hope the next one works just as quickly

and the sizing matches!!

First sock completed

I have also finished the top of my "sisters" quilt

so this needs to be loaded on the frame for quilting.

Until next time

Happy knitting and quilting

Susan

That time of the year

2011-01-25T07:22:00.000+02:00

I did not manage much sewing or knitting yesterday as I have Doctors visits for my annual check up
Today is the followup and then this afternoon I am off to my first guild meeting of the year.
It will be good to met up with my fellow sewers and get fired up for the year to come.

My Sisters top has 5 rows done when I discovered that I was short of one block.I hope to finish the top by the weekend and then work a bit more on the log cabins.

I have done the heel on the sock and I am busy with the gusset. It is such fun!
Until next time,
Happy sewing and Knitting
Susan

Design wall Monday 24 January 2011

2011-01-24T08:34:00.000+02:00

Every year my guild, St Matthews, has a display of quilts in the church garden which we call

Sisters at St Matthews, similar to the Sisters display in the States.

This year we were challanged to make a quilt specifically for this display.

I have done all the applique blocks and I am in the process of joining them for the top.

I hope to have this completed soon!

Filler blocks

Go to Judy's site and see what others are up to

Happy sewing and quilting

Susan

The Bug Has Bitten

2011-01-24T08:16:00.003+02:00

This last week I spent with my DD in Stellenbosch getting her settled into Varsity.
Unable to sew I took the plunge and bought sock yarn and needles.
I have not knitted socks before and found the concept of 4/5 needles a bit scary but
after 2 failed attempts have progressed as far as the heel on sock number 1.
I am really enjoying the process and hope this will be a happy knitting time
Thanks to Judy for all the encouragement!

Progress on sock no 1 up to heel

yarn for sock no 2

I hope my DDs will like the socks
Happy knitting
Susan

Design Wall 27 December 2010

2010-12-27T15:08:00.001+02:00

This is the last design wall post of the year.
On my table are 4 of 25 of 64 log cabins
These were started in September 2010 and I really hope to complete this
top before the end of March 2011.
We will have to see if I can do that!

Thanks to Judy at http://www.patchworktimes.com/ for hosting this challange
I really hope to keep up next year
Happy sewing Susan

Trying to keep up with design wall mondays

2010-11-15T21:59:00.005+02:00

Design wall Mondays make me realize that I need to "KEEP UP"!!

I have not blogged for ages and I have done so much since the last posting

I have blocks on the wall for a quilt for my Dad for Christmas Do you think I will get it done in time?

I have 24 of these blocks. They will have embroidered "Golfing" designs as well.

Moms quilt top is done. It needs to be put on the frame and quilted.

Well it's back to the machine for me.

Tomorrow I am off the the quilt stores

I am looking for novelty prints with golfing characters

Until next time

Happy sewing

Susan

catching up

2010-09-10T06:01:00.003+02:00

So much has happened since I last posted.

The two quilts are done and waiting to have the binding sewn down.

I have been very busy painting the house at the coast.

And.......

I am off to a quilting retreat for the weekend for a much deserved break.

I hope to have lots of pictures on my next post.

Happy sewing

Susan

7 June Design Wall

2010-06-07T06:15:00.005+02:00

I have progressed quite far on the 2 quilts.

They both need another 3 borders each.

They will then be a better size.

I am using a pattern which ends up as a lap quilt.

The beds I have purchased are three quarter.

Here is one of the blocks.
Made up into a top looks like this:

Until next week,

Happy sewing

Susan

Design Wall Monday 31 May

2010-05-30T16:28:00.004+02:00

On my wall I have lots of squares, triangles and rectangles.

I am making 2, yes! 2 quilts for

2, yes! 2 beds in my new house at the beach

and wanted something in greens and blues.

Until next time

Happy sewing

Susan

Design wall 17 May

2010-05-17T07:48:00.003+02:00

I am busy with a Row by Row courtesy of FatCat Patterns.com

This is the 5th row of liittle gnomes

I am so enjoying this applique challange.

Happy sewing

Susan

Surprised!!

2010-05-05T18:38:00.001+02:00

Wow I am amazed how many comments I received on my last blog entry.

I did not know that so many people read my blog.

Looks like I will have to do more blogging!!

Happy sewing and quilting

Susan

Design Wall 3 May

2010-05-03T16:54:00.003+02:00

The next post was supposed to be about my "50th" Birthday but this is more fun.

Here are the blocks for my next quilt.

I hope to make 2 for beds in my "new"home

Until next time

Happy sewing and quilting.

Susan

Round Robin with borders

2010-03-27T14:15:00.003+02:00

Here is the block with its borders attached. It does change the look of it.

I hope the person who started the block likes it.

I have started a new quilt. It has 2 large applique blocks

which I hope will be large enough for a single bed cover.

I will be adding photos of my progress along the way.

Big day tomorrow.

Will let you what what it is!!

Happy sewing

Susan

Round Robin

2010-03-24T19:20:00.003+02:00

On the second Staurday in March, I joined a new group of quilters out of town (about half an hour).

They had already started a round robin block.

I was able to catch up and below is the block I received to add more rows to.

Next blog will have a update, hopefully.

Susan

Pictures and update

2010-03-23T18:21:00.003+02:00

Here are some pictures of the quilts and tops I am currently working on.

I had a busy day today, no sewing just a visit to the attorneys and the bank.

I will be starting on a new top tonight.

I will have some pictures tomorrow

Happy sewing

Susan

Again Time Flies!!

2010-03-22T14:47:00.003+02:00

Almost 2 months since my last blog. Shame on me!

Life has been hectically busy and I have been sewing my little(!)but off.

2 Quilts for CANSA, a quilt for a new baby, a Row by Row Christmas Quilt Courtesy of Sindy.

Three tops quilted for a customer and one on the frame for me.

Also much has happened on my living life as apposed to my quilting life.

New House purchased on the coast.

This one has lots of work to do but I am looking forward to that and who knows what that life will bring.

I hope as much happiness as my quilting.

I also did something yesterday which I always said was silly and impossible:

I SEWED MY FINGER!!

Can you believe that?

I have been sewing for more years than I can remember (Will be 50 soon) and now this happens.

Could have been a lot worse I suppose.

The needle broke and I had a piece stuck in the tip of my finger with the thread still attached. Well I yanked it out, let it bleed a bit ,

covered the throbbing finger with a plaster and carried on sewing.

Until next time

(Which I hope is not in 2 months!)

Happy sewing,

Susan

STASH REPORT 10 Jan 2010

2010-01-10T17:18:00.003+02:00

FABRIC BOUGHT: 0

FABRIC USED: 7.6

Total for the year: Used 7.6

Used for the following:

Orange and Green Easy 4 Patch

Blue and White Easy 4 Patch for Charity quilt

Pink applique hearts

Blue and white applique hearts

See how others are doing with their stash busting at Judy's blog .

Until nest week,

Happy stash busting, Susan

Design wall 4 Jan 2010

2010-01-04T19:50:00.003+02:00

This is the start of a trial quilt top.

I have found that there are many seams to match

and will use another design for a charity quilt.

My daughter cut her long hair last your and donated it for wigs.
She has been approached to be a mascot for CANSA Shave-a-thon 2010.
What a difference a hair cut makes.

I also have on my wall 30 blocks for a Charity quilt

using Cure for Cancer fabrics.

Enjoy your sewing

Susan

Happy new year and Stash Report

2010-01-03T21:08:00.002+02:00

This is my first stash report ever :) and at this stage it is empty.

I have not bought any fabric this week and I am busy making up a top aa a sample

for a charity quilt.

The fabric usage will go into next weeks report.

Judy at Patchwork Times runs this challange.

See what others are doing!

I hope everyone started the new year off doing something they enjoy.

What you do one the 1st day is what you will do every day.

I was sewing!!

Happy sewing

Susan

Computer update

2009-12-10T16:18:00.002+02:00

Hopefully my problems with the software will be a thing of the past in a few days time.
I will be loading a second operating system onto the laptop so that I will be able to use my embroidery software.
I cannot wait.
Its amazing how much I actually rely and use the software.
I was not aware of it.
One a happier note:
One new car coming up!!
Will be collecting it tomorrow.
Will post a picture soon
Happy sewing,
Susan

Help with computer

2009-11-26T14:57:00.005+02:00

I have a new laptop which is wonderful........
except I cannot load my embroidery software.
I am posting a picture of my screen with error in the hope
that someone out there might be able to help me.

This screen pops up after the restart and request that I insert the dongle.

It is verifying the security device in the background but in the
forefront shows an error as follows:
"DATAGATHER
Can not find or run command"
I have to cancel the installation.
My technician says he has never encountered this error.

Please someone help!!

Susan

Up and running

2009-11-09T19:56:00.002+02:00

The reason for no posts is ...........

a new computer!
My design wall is almost empty except for one lonely Sunbonnet Cathryn!

The sunbonnets have all their borders on and I have run out of fabric.

The signature blocks also need more blue,
so a quick trip to Hillcrest and Westville is necessary.
I am hoping to go on Thursday

Until next week
Happy sewing
Susan

Better late then never

2009-10-13T12:08:00.003+02:00

I know it is already Tuesday but......
LIFE happens
I did take a photo yesterday of my wall
And here it is
The applique top ready for its next 4 borders.

Visit Judy and see what others have on their walls
Until next week
Happy sewing and quilting
Susan

Design wall 4 October

2009-10-05T07:30:00.002+02:00

My blocks for an applique quilt.

All different shade of purple.

Lots of applique and just a plain sashed
setting.

I also had a tidy out of quilt tops this weekend
and discovered 8 tops waiting to be quilted.

That should give me lots of practice!
Until next week
Happy sewing and quilting
Susan

Design Wall 28 Sept

2009-09-28T15:10:00.002+02:00

Well there is nothing on my wall today.
How sad!
I do have many designs in my head just need to get them started
I am saving a "Quilt for an Hour" project which I hope to make soon.
Hope fully next week there will be something on my wall
Until next week,
Happy planning and sewing
Susan

Mystery complete

2009-09-27T12:23:00.002+02:00

Quick update:
The Summer Mystery top is done!
Just needs to be quilted.
Also the commission quilt (1930 repro. butterflies) is done.
Just needs to be bound.
Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan

Stash 26 Sept 2009

2009-09-26T20:50:00.003+02:00

Judy of Patchworktimes
has challenged all quilters and blog followers
to "show their Stash".
Great idea.
Below is mine:

Boxes of fabric, I think there are 24 plus there
are 2 with PhD's.
These are nearly done.
On the right are 2 bolts.
The left-hand is approx. 50 meters of backing fabric,
enough for plenty of quilts!!
I am still busy building my stash so maybe there will be
more containers next year.
Happy sewing,
Susan

21 sept Design wall

2009-09-21T15:54:00.003+02:00

These chicken are on an apron which I painted at Craft Club.
The straps still need to be attached.

On the left is the completed top and the right is one block.
This was done at Izotsha over the week end.
It was the most fantastic time, just what a quilting retreat should be.
No cooking, washing or ironing except whatever you are sewing.
I had a wonderful time

This is what I have made with the Triple spinning star blocks.
A table runner.

Mondays do seems to come around very quickly but at least it gets us going.
Visit Judy to see what others are doing.

Until later,
Happy sewing
Susan

7 Sept Design Wall

2009-09-08T07:21:00.006+02:00

I love Mondays.
It allows you to see progress.
The first one is a Lone Star which I have finally quilted and it just needs to be bound.

The second is the many blocks FPP which I will have to make about 56.
I have decided to make a centre block and then add a border of blocks.
Quilt should be about 50 inches square.

I am going on a quilting retreat this weekend and will be taking these with me to do as well as an already cut and bagged mystery quilt.

31 august design wall

2009-08-31T20:07:00.003+02:00

My latest design wall pictures

Mondays seem to come by so quickly.
On my design wall is the beginning of a Christmas quilt.
It is foundation paper pieced.
I love doing this type of block as the points are all so sharp.

These starter blocks will be shown to Grade 8 art girls at
my daughters school.
Until next week ,
Happy sewing
Susan

24 august 2009 Whats on my design wall

2009-08-24T06:44:00.004+02:00

Actually is my table.
Strips for a Chinese coin quilt.
I hope to embellish it with embroidered roses (Hatched in Africa designs)

Happy sewing
Susan

Weekend family lunch

2009-08-24T06:31:00.002+02:00

Mom celebrated her birthday this weekend.
We, the girls in my family joined her for lunch.

Cup cakes instead of a single cake

Nikki and Cathryn lighting the candles

Jennifer and Brandon

Jennifer and Grandpa

Not much sewing done
Susan

I have been tagged

2009-08-11T18:31:00.004+02:00

I have been tagged by:

http://hecketyathome.blogspot.com/2009/08/tagged-listand-shed-progress.html/

Sorry don't know how to do a link. Hope This works.

ten things about me:

I love my 3 daughters.
I could not live without my sewing machines.
I love chocolate.
I drive a white car.
I have lived in the same town(Pietermaritzburg) most of my life except for 2 years(1 year in Durban, 1 year in Cape Town)
I love cats. 5 cats live at home, mine is a colourpoint Persian(Jasper)
I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters
I have a passion for anything sewing related most especially quilts and quilting.
I would love to visit the USA again. My sister lives in LA
Owning a quilting store would be heaven.

As I am new to blogging there are no bloggers to tag.

Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan
ps. just learnt how to link:)

Monday design wall

2009-08-03T08:50:00.003+02:00

My design wall has the beginnings of a charity quilt.
I am using a modified EPP bachelors puzzle block.
I am not doing paper piecing and have thoroughly enjoyed this block.
Our guild leader showed it to us at our last meeting.
This quilt will go to CHOC

Until next week
Happy quilting
Susan

Butterflies and Blooms

2009-07-19T20:11:00.004+02:00

The quilt is done!
Applique butterfly blocks from Hatched in Africa and
Center block a Paper pieced Carol Doak design.

I spent and enjoyable day in Durban on Saturday with Liese and Cara
from Hatched in Africa.
They had a trunk show and we all had so much fun.

Also got to see the new 830/820 Bernina which has just been launched here.
It is a wonderful machine and the embroidery space is huge but I love my
machines and am very content with mine.

Now that I have one quilt done I will be loading another on the frame and
hope to have that done soon.
Until next time,
Happy sewing
Susan

Whats on my design wall

2009-07-06T13:36:00.002+02:00

My design wall is full of butterflies.
24 to be exact!
The start of my Vintage Butterfly quilt commission.
I have so enjoyed sewing these.
I would actually like to do one for myself.

Until next week,
Happy sewing.
Susan

Update on Car

2009-07-03T07:41:00.002+02:00

Yesterday afternoon I received the quote for repairs to my car.
A whopping big R42500.00 (about US$ 6000.00).
That is more than my Hinterberg.
WOW!

Not much happening on the sewing side.
I am still removing applique paper from a quilt which will
then need to be put on the fame for quilting.
Hopefully that will happen this weekend.
Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan

Oh No!!

2009-07-01T05:52:00.003+02:00

This is what happened to me on my way to my monthly quilting

guild:

My poor car was T-Boned.White Colt bakkie came across my path and I could not avoid hitting it.
So she has gone to hospital.
Thank goodness for insurance and I will hopefully have a hire vehicle by the end of tomorrow.

This is what I should be
showing you:
6 Baby quilts
quilted bound and with labels , ready for sale.
Until next time,
Happy quilting,
Susan

Whats on my design wall

2009-06-29T13:11:00.004+02:00

My design wall is full of sunbonnets.
The beginnings of a memory quilt for my youngest daughter
who matriculates this year.
The dress is her old school uniforms and friends will be
sending in alternate blocks which they have personalised.

Also although not yet showable(Is there such a word)
the start of another applique quilt with butterflies and 1930 repro fabrics.
Until next week
Happy sewing,
Susan

Voyager and Frame

2009-06-15T18:46:00.004+02:00

I am starting to bond with my machine and frame.
I have cut and stitched 6 baby quilts and have already quilted 3.
Seems like the more I do, the more I want to do.
Thank goodness I am mostly a SAHM!
I am really enjoying being at home although some days
I am more out and about than at home.

Yet I am getting on with the sewing and quilting
and have many completed tops which need to be
quilted and bound.
I think I have about 12 tops waiting.
That should give me tons of practice on the frame.

Unfortunately my cell phone and computer are not talking to each other
and therefore I have no photos to show.
Little bit technologically challenged!!

Have found the camera and this should all be fixed in a day or 2.

Until then
Happy stitching
Susan

Sisters in South Africa

2009-06-07T07:43:00.002+02:00

Our guild, St. Matthews in Pietermaritzburg,
hosted the biggest outdoor quilt show yesterday.
We loosely based it on the exhibition held on Sisters, Oregon.
Out total of quilts hung between the trees and along the fences was more than 300,
which I think is a wonderful achievement.
We also have a few vendors and a tea garden.
A wonderful time was had by all!

Happy quilting
Susan

Whats on my design wall

2009-06-02T07:59:00.003+02:00

JudyL at Patchwork Times has started a thread about "whats on the design wall".
Well mine is a flannel sheet really up close and personal.
My tiny sewing room which was once the breakfast nook only has one wall large enough for a design wall.
Opposite is a large window which lets in lovely light.
I have had on the wall for the past few months a UFO or PhD(Project Half done).
Wall hanging started with a centre pp block ( Carol Doak) and 8 applique butterflies.
Have since added a chain of daisies on the border and sashings.
I am now in the process of machine appliqueing them on.
Photos to follow
Happy sewing
Susan

Mothers Day

2009-05-10T19:12:00.001+02:00

To all Moms out there,

hope it was a wonderful day.
My three daughters were all home for lunch.
Was super.

On a quilting note:
The heirloom quilt is quilted:
Just needs to be bound.
Hooray!!

Diamonds are a girls best friend

2009-04-27T14:48:00.008+02:00

Cathryn's Matric dance theme:
Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend!
Table settings were wonderful.
Large floral arrangement with red roses and silver swirly vines.
Cathryn looked like a princess in her dress.Cathryn is on the extreme left with her friends.

Well its back to the machine for me to prepare for
Market Day on Friday
Happy sewing
Susan

Matric Dance Has Arrived

2009-04-25T20:23:00.002+02:00

Sorry still no photos.

Cathryn and Partner Zack are at the Dance.

wonderful venue just out of town

Hope they have a wonderful time

Sewing up a storm

2009-04-24T22:01:00.004+02:00

For the past few days I have been sewing my youngest daughter's
Matric dance dress.
While I have enjoyed doing this I will hopefully not be sewing
any wedding dresses in the near future!
Ask for a quilt any day,Please.
Tomorrow is the big day:
Hair, nails and make-up.
Even Mom has to get into the swing of things and I
have just finished a new black evening skirt for myself.
Next entry will have photos.
Until later,
Happy sewing and quilting
Susan

Progress on Heirloom quilt

2009-04-06T14:17:00.002+02:00

The quilt top is almost done.
I just need to add the borders and then
I am ready to sandwich and quilt.
This will not be done on the Hinter berg as I will need to SID
and I have not yet mastered that in the frame.

I am off to Cape Town for a few days.
Eldest daughter is doing Half Marathon on Saturday.
I hope to meet with an agent for quilting threads for the Hinter berg.
Also am meeting friends from home for dinner.
I hope to but fabric for my stash as well.
Until later,
Happy quilting,
Susan

Busy,Busy,Busy

2009-03-26T14:58:00.003+02:00

It amazing how life goes.
Afew weeks ago I thought life was standing still.
Then I was commissioned to do 2 quilts.
One an heirloom quilt. Lots of lace and ribbon and
the second an applique butterfly quilt.
Wow!!
Am I ever grateful.
This came at the right time.
I am no longer working for H, just 2 hours a week.
A new oppurtunity has also come up.
Rental collection for a commercial bulding plus a small set of books.
Just what I need at this this time.
Will let you know more as I progress.
My youngest daughter also has her Senior Ball at the end of April.
The fabric has been bought and will be made during the Easter break.

Poor blogging skills

2009-02-08T18:04:00.004+02:00

I cannot believe another month has gone past.
my blogging skills are really poor.
I suppose its called "life"
I have done quite a bit of sewing and have completed my
One of a Kind quilt.
It turned out quite nicely and does not look half as bad as when it was just blocks.
It amazing what putting it all together does!
I have quilted it with butterflies and stippled around the applique.

On the non-sewing side I have been quite stressed with work
as H has not found anyone suitable
to take my place and so I am still going out to the factory every day.
Hopefully this week will find someone suitable.
Until later,
Happy sewing
Susan

What is on my frame?

2009-01-08T20:27:00.004+02:00

I thought I would show everyone what I am working on
at the moment.
It is a block of the month quilt started I think in 2005!
It has been on the frame for nearly 2 months.
So I thought I had better get going.
It has been easier now as I am at home in the mornings
and only go into the office for 2 hours in the afternoon.
I am almost finished quilting around the flower blocks and borders.
Once done I will continue hand quilting the chain blocks.
The next thing to go onto the frame is mattress protectors to earn a bit of cash!

Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan

No fun sewing day

2009-01-03T13:29:00.002+02:00

Today was a working day.
I had an order for fitted sheets to be ready on Monday.
They are stitched and packed ready for delivery.
So no pictures.
Cathryn is away at a sleep over and tomorrow is a family 21st braai
Monday is the start of the new working year.
I wonder what it will bring as I am no longer working for my husband
and hope to find something else to bring an income.
I am hoping I will be able to do my sewing from home,
enough to keep me busy and also earn enough along the way.
We will see what 2009 brings

Until later
Happy sewing
Susan

Still sewing ...and finished

2009-01-02T20:07:00.004+02:00

Today was a major sewing day.
No breaks,well almost none.
I have managed to complete all the blocks and I
am now putting them all together so.....
the top should be done by tonight.
This mystery has turned out so nicely although some stages were a bit tedious
I think I will make another of the same.
Finished top photos to follow

Happy sewing
Susan
Completed top
The first for 2009!!

New Year Greetings

2009-01-01T08:05:00.003+02:00

Good Morning all!
I did manage to stay up until the new year.
Cathryn and I watched 2 movies.
Both of us commented that we hoped this year 2009 would
not be like it(2008) ended.... both of us in tears!!
Still it was lovely to watch with her and see the new year in.
Today I am busy sewing my NYE mystery quilt.
Have already found I am 1 block short.
Until later, Happy sewing
Susan

2008-12-31T14:15:00.006+02:00

Christmas has come and gone.

We had a wonderful time with family and friends.
This what I have been working on while waiting for the NYE mystery clues.
It is from orphan blocks made while teaching a friend how to
paper piece.
It will make up to a lap quilt size.
Here are some photos taken at Christmas.
Choir practice with my three daughters and sister, I am the one wearing the apron!
We had lovely weather and were able to sit outside

Until next time,
Happy sewing
Susan

Back home

2008-12-20T11:47:00.002+02:00

Well again its been too long.
I have just returned from a weeks holiday in Margate.
Wonderful to relax.
I have however missed my sewing machines and all my fabric.
I am revving to go and sew again.
I will be doing a mystery quilt on New Years Day.
I also have about 7 UFO's or PhD's(Projects half Done) as I prefer to call them.
Sounds so much more professional!
Will be having my family over for Christmas Eve dinner.
This year I am making a Turducken.
Should be interesting!
This year will take photos to add to the blog.

Wow one whole month!

2008-11-04T17:33:00.005+02:00

I have just realized that one whole month has flown past without even one tiny entry. Life is just too complicated at the moment. I have so much going on in my mind that I cannot think.

On the quilting front there has been some progress. I have completed 2 table runners for Christmas. and the "one of a kind" quilt has its first border on. It is looking much better even though it is not really what I would have chosen to make. still I feel that having started I must complete it.

Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan

Sucess on the Hinterberg

2008-10-02T13:04:00.005+02:00

Well I did manage to setup the plexiglass on the frame and have done a double bed mattress protector.
It all worked out very well and I will be loading some more fabrics for the next lot of protectors.
I only hope they sell as well as they sew out!.

Here are a few photos of the laser setup.
I am really pleased with the way this all came together.
I am now looking for a laser light that does not use batteries but one which I can plug into the electricity.
My H says he can modify the battery operated one but we will have to wait and see how that pans out.

Until next time,
Happy sewing
Susan

Snow in September?

2008-09-21T16:44:00.005+02:00

Today we decided to take a drive to find and see the snow. We only had to drive about 20 minutes and there it was. We do not normally get snow in winter let alone near Pietermaritzburg
and certainly not half way through September.
We stopped for lunch in Himeville which is about 80 kilometers away.
They had about 12 inches of snow.
It looked like a winter wonderland.

These are my daughters "dancing " in the snow

Very little sewing done today.
Just the binding on the Christmas table runner.
Still need to work out how to miter a 60' angle corner!

Will post a picture when its done.

Happy sewing
Susan

Waiting in anticipation

2008-09-19T06:26:00.005+02:00

Today my "Plexiglas" should arrive.
I will be using it on my Hinter berg so that I can do panto from the front.
This should change the way things go on the frame.
I have only seen this in a photo and do not know exactly how it will work.
Of course I can only experiment.
Will keep everyone informed.
Yesterday our sewing group did not do much sewing .
We all s.seem a bit disappointed with the mystery wall hanging.
I feel and so do they that it is very busy.
Still, we will carry on and finish it as a group.
We have decided at our next meeting to make a Christmas table topper/runner.

Last night I quickly made up a sample so that I knew the instructions were correct.
It worked out fine except for a few strips of fabric which were cut and then not used.
I think we will manange to almost complete it in one afternoon
This should be fun.

Until next time
Happy sewing
Susan

Update overdue!

2008-09-17T18:47:00.005+02:00

I see that I have not blogged since the 8th.
I have been busy, you know!
Yesterday made up 3 bags for my daughter (Eldest,a school teacher,music) for the school band instruments.
One for the xylophone which needed a zip as well.
Also made up 2 mattress protectors on the Hinterberg.
They turned out well and hopefully will sell quickly.
Tomorrow is my sewing day with sewing friends.
I am still working on a wall hanging made up of one centre block
(Carol Doak PP) and 8 applique butterflies.
This will have applique daisies in the sashing.
Nice bright blues and greens.
Have "met" some wonderful ladies via this blog and do so enjoy getting emails from them.

Until the next time
Happy sewing
Susan
Will hopefully have some photos to show as well!

Some Progress

2008-09-08T07:38:00.003+02:00

I have finished a quilt doing a pantograph on the frame for the first time.
It was fairly successful.
I am still learning.
Just as well this is my own quilt.
I have also received all the fabric needed to make mattress protectors.
That will give me a lot of practice using pantographs.
I am also busy binding an attic window quilt using fabrics purchased in the USA during my trip in 2003.
Progress on the wall hanging is on.
I have made the next set of 12 blocks.
The colours are still very bright but they are starting to grow on me.
No photos this time.
I will put them up soon.
Happy sewing
Susan

Productive morning

2008-08-28T13:14:00.010+02:00

I have been staying at home for the past month on every Tuesday and Thursday just so that I can get things done for myself and also to make stock for my new business venture.
This morning I embroidered 2 pillowcases using designs from Hatched in Africa.
They stitch out beautifully.

Part 3 of the mystery wall hanging is out.
Need to make another 12 blocks 4,5 inches in size.
That makes 24 blocks so far.
This is certainly not my safe mode sewing.
I have chosen colours I do not usually use and feel it will be very bright.
Just as well it is only a wall hanging and not a bed quilt.

Well back to the machine,
Happy sewing
Susan

Whale watching

2008-08-18T17:55:00.007+02:00

We have just come back home after a weekend away in Cape Town.
Saturday we took a drive to Hermanus to see the whales.
The weather was superb and we did see the whales in the bay.
The country side around Cape Town is amazing.
There is such contrast with vineyards and farm lands and suddenly rolling hills all green with the winter rains.
The mountains are so close and the ocean is even closer.

I did not manage to buy any fabric and missed my machines back home.

I have my kaleidoscope quilt ready to be put on the frame.
I am keen to try something else besides stipple/meandering.
Do I draw onto the top or try a pantograph?
I think it calls for feathers or wreaths of some sort.
Tomorrow is my sewing day at home.
My sewing friends and I will be working on our guild mystery quilt/wall hanging.

Until later
Happy sewing
Susan

2008-07-29T10:52:00.005+02:00

Its amazing how life just seems to rush past and sometimes just bowl you over.

I have had the most horrendous week work wise.

Although I am living in South Africa I am slowly getting very despondent being here.

One has to put up with so much bureaucratic nonsense in the business world. Just trying to make an honest living but being self employed at the moment is the pits.

There is so much paperwork and red tape involved that some days it just does not seem worth it. There are days when I wish I was employed and not the employer and could go home at 5 and not worry about work until the next day.

On a lighter side I am really enjoying my sewing and especially patchwork and quilting. I think if it were not for my after hours hobby I would go stark raving mad.

My kaleidoscope quilt is almost ready to be quilted. I still have to add the final border.

I ran out of fabric and now need to get another meter.

This afternoon is the monthly guild meeting.

Thank goodness for that. At least it is a quiet afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the working world.

Will also be getting the next clue in our monthly mystery quilt project. This is sure to be lots of fun.

Chat soon
Susan

The days after a class

2008-07-16T21:55:00.003+02:00

Classes were just wonderful
There were 12 of us and we all chose such different fabrics.
It is so amazing to see the different blocks when doing the kaleidoscope quilt.
I think this is also known as a "stack and whack" quilt.
I did manages to complete 6 of the 8 squares and have completed the other 2 this evening.
I am also cutting another 9 blocks so that the quilt will fit my big bed.
My sewing group did not meet this evening but we will meet again in August.
Cannot believe it will be August soon!

Not much done today

2008-07-13T19:58:00.002+02:00

Well I did start loading the next quilt top. It was not the NYE mystery. I found an old UFO made with fabric purchased from the States when I visited my baby sister Belinda in June 2003.
wow! 5 years ago already. I think I need to go back there again. She lives in Los Angeles and is a physical therapist.
The top is an attic window with cats. Sadly I discovered that my backing is too small so will have to shop for more. Will visit the local factory shop which has quite a good range of fabrics available.
Also managed to cut out 9 9" squares for a class on Tuesday. A kaleidescope quilt using a protea as my focus. The protea is South Africa's national flower. Sorry I don't have a picture. I certainly need to get up to speed with taking photos and posting them.
Will take some during the class and post. I promise!
I am also busy embroidering butterflies for a quilt using one of Carol Doak's patterns as the center block.
So much to do and so little time.
Chat again soon
Susan

What a day

2008-07-12T17:58:00.004+02:00

Friday was one of those days.
Work was ok. Friday is always ghastly as it is wages/payday.
Still I only work until 2pm or 2.30pm
My youngest daughter Cathryn and Michelle went horse riding and did an out ride.
At 4.15 they called to say that Cathryn had taken a tumble.
Motherly instinct kicked in and I called the emergency rooms to let them know that I would be bringing her in.I had not even seen her yet.
We got to the doctors rooms just after 5 and it was confirmed that she had dislocated her left elbow.
This resulted in surgery and an overnight stay in the hospital.
I got to bed after midnight.
So much for plans to load my second quilt on the frame!
She is now home. Very sleepy but all put back together again and I am trying to catch up my sleep.
Tomorrow I will load the quilt top.
It was a mystery quilt done with an online internet group. (NYE Mystery).

First quilt off the frame

2008-07-10T17:53:00.002+02:00

Good evening
The first quilt is off the frame and I am busy doing the binding.
I am really pleased with the results. For a first time!
Quilt feels a bit stiff maybe because of the intense quilting.
It was all done free hand. My next effort will be using the pantograph.
Will post photo as soon as the binding is done.

2008-06-15T17:17:00.002+02:00

Well, I cannot believe it has been so long since my last post.
I have had a very busy week and weekend.
First my hinterberg machine and frame arrived from the States and I have been opening and unpacking all the boxes.
Saturday was a Knitting day in Howick.
I joined several ladies and we knitted a square for blankets to be donated to breast cancer patients.
Will post photos as soon as I can.

More sewing

2008-05-18T08:00:00.004+02:00

Pyjama pants finished. Went quickly and girls are delighted.
Today will complete 2 bath mats for main bathroom. Hope to drive
out to Howick to visit with family.
Looks like it will be a good day!

2008-05-17T10:16:00.001+02:00

Back at Home after early morning market shopping plus getting goodies for finishing off 4 pair of pyjama pants for the daughters.
Will post a photo when done.

Day one of the blog

2008-05-16T17:47:00.003+02:00

Hi This is my first post.
I am Susan and live in Pietermaritzburg with husband and 2 of three daughters.
I work outside of the home and try to spend as much time after work sewing and quilting.
My goal is to have a small business running from home quilting for others.
On my wish list is a Voyager 17" and a stretch frame.