Day 8…Needful Things…

 

12 Days of Christmas 8WOW…the days go fast..I’m working on the new store and working on these posts…traveling to and from the store, eat dinner and a watch a movie maybe and then fall asleep…do it again the next day!  Just trying to get the most done while I am here… I go back home tomorrow.  I want to THANK everyone for the great comments yesterday…I actually read them all because they all get sent to my phone…and I have to delete them…but I read them first, so thanks again for making me feel good while I slave away painting and running around trying to get all the things done..painting 15 ft. walls…painting cabinets…locks changed, business license, utilities all lined up…signage…carpenter instructions for checkout and more shelving…IIMG_1327‘m sure I forget half of what we all did…here is peek at the store BEFORE we did anything…I didn’t take quite the same view, but here is the what it looks like painted.  I added this last picture because you can’t really tell the paint color in the second one…anyone guess the color?  paperbag!IMG_1342IMG_1330

Now back to the NEEDFUL thing of the day…

CGRGE1Day 8’s needful thing is…the Creative Grid Stripology ruler.  This ruler was new at Spring Market but I did not get a chance to use it until I had the perfect quilt to TEST it on…Snowman Gatherings 2 (coming to stores in MAY-can’t post quilt until the 30th)has an 80 block quilt SNOW DANCE that is made by cutting 4 widths and then sub cutting all into 2″ strips…I stacked layered and cut 8 blocks at a time…it was a breeze…the ruler never moved and it was so easy and mindless and accurate…I probably cut my usual cutting time in HALF because of this ruler.  I am a fast cutter to begin with and who wants to spend lots of time cutting out a quilt when we can be stitching instead…so saving time cutting is valuable to me.  lisabongena Here is my whole quilt cut up…I made 2 sets of 4 blocks to test for accuracy.  There are 8 blocks in a baggie….2 darks and 1 light make 8 blocks.  I didn’t have anytime to stitch these but I was ready just in case….There are many features to this ruler and I want to you see them ALL so you need to view this You Tube video by Gudrun Erla (the strip queen) for all the awesome details about this ruler  STRIPOLOGY RULER VIDEO 

This ruler is regular priced at $54.95…on sale for $44.00.  Here is the shopping link if you NEED it.  STRIPOLOGY RULER

PS…this is no June Taylor strip ruler…WAY… IMPROVED!!!

Now what do you have to do to win this???

Lets do this…I’m in a good mood because a bunch of you stuck up for PG on Facebook yesterday to some people who were all crabby about not getting their orders yet from the Christmas Gathering…sometimes during holidays designers take off and when we order we don’t get things in right away…or other things…don’t they realize we are not holding their orders on purpose? WE want them to get them asap???…but this year the girls got half the orders out in a week and I think the last of them went out today…I’m not going to say how many orders there were cause you wouldn’t believe me…My girls busted their rumps!!! Organizing, ordering, and picking and shipping!!  So because I didn’t have to stick up for my girls and you guys did it for me…Were going to give 2 of these away…one to someone who purchases it and one to someone random who probably didn’t!!! If you are not going to purchase it now…leave me some silly comment…make me laugh while I’m waiting in airports today.   PSS You won’t see the FB post…I think they removed it…it was two persons trying to commiserating together…life is too short to complain about your quilting order…THANKS FB FRIENDS!!

one more thing…do you know they plant poinsettias in the GROUND in California???? They are perfect too…I love it!!! Next time I come back it will be for a month hopefully the sun will shine…it was good working weather though…See you California…will be back in January, for a month!

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241 responses to “Day 8…Needful Things…”

  1. Jan Kitchen Avatar

    Lisa, I’m awake way to early and reading your blog. I love your honesty. You struggle just like the rest of us and feel free to share. It warms my heart how you just keep on keeping on. What an inspiration!

  2. Susan Avatar
    Susan

    Ok, I must be the first comment and the first never wins but I’ll do it anyway! Something silly……While checking my facebook feed this morning, I saw that someone posted in a local online yardsale an ad for “Snowman arms, elbows included, 49.95.” What were they? Sticks! Yes, they did have a bend in them for elbows and forked ends for the hands. Actually, they did look like perfect snowman arms! I had to laugh! I’d love to try this ruler—I’ve not been impressed with the June Taylor one. Thanks for letting us know about it!

  3. Christine Brown Avatar
    Christine Brown

    Sorry I can’t be funny at 5AM, will post again later when my humor wakes up!! I am already hooked on the June Taylor ruler so I am excited to use the new one. Believe it or not I love the cutting stage but then again I love it all!
    On my way to add the new ruler to my Needful Things orders!!! Merry Christmas!!!!

  4. Alice Tignor Avatar

    Count how many threads are on your pants from stitching;0 Travel safely.

  5. Barbara Avatar
    Barbara

    I lived in California and the poinsettia’s are beautiful. That ruler sounds great if it can cut the cutting time in half!!!

  6. Ellen Sharp Avatar
    Ellen Sharp

    Ruler looks great! Getting ready to watch the video!! Thanks for the giveaway!
    Ellen

  7. Amy Avatar
    Amy

    Once CA is up and running….how about a shop in GA! Moved here 18 months ago from IL. Miss being able to drive to your shop. Praying for traveling mercies. The ruler sounds amazingl!

  8. Sheila Avatar

    I think my silly bones have left for the day or maybe just haven’t waken up . I would love to see poinsetta planted in the ground like that , so pretty . Thanks for the chance Looks like a great ruler !

  9. Willa Hensley Avatar
    Willa Hensley

    This ruler sounds awesome! With boys, work, and life in general I’m always looking for faster ways to get more quilting in! While you’re in California next month, I’ll be doing what you’ll be doing the next couple of weeks – “California dreaming on such a winter’s day!” Take care and have a Christmas full of love and precious memories.

  10. Janet Avatar
    Janet

    Oh m;y goodness, I have never seen poinsettias in the ground either! Guess I will need to make a trip to California to see your new shot; and maybe glance at the poinsettias! You are one busy lady!!!! jmh

  11. Jackie Avatar
    Jackie

    You are opening a new store, congrats! I too am not funny today…Excited to get the new ruler, thanks for the chance to win one!

  12. Denise Gosselin Avatar
    Denise Gosselin

    This ruler looks awesome and will eventually need to be added to my tools! I think I saw a something with you using this ruler (maybe?, or probably had a dream – who knows these days…the memory is going!) and it looked like a real time saver. I did see the post of crabbiness the other day…some people need to lighten up. Apparently they dont understand the volume of orders your girls handle during this sale – and I’m sure through the year. I havent got my order yet and a few of the items are gifts for my quilting friends. Im not worried and i know they will understand if its late. Thanks for all your wonderful designs and thanks to your staff for all they do through the year! Happy holidays!

  13. Cindy Avatar

    Something silly now that’s a hard one… I don’t have a silly bone in my body just those funny bones in my elbow. I don’t feel anything funny when I bang them. So why are they called funny bones????

  14. Rose Avatar
    Rose

    The video was very informative and helped explain a lot. I have used the June Taylor ruler, however, I always had trouble with it slipping. So glad to see that this ruler would correct that problem. Congrats on your new store, now how about starting one on the east coast.

  15. Debbie G Avatar
    Debbie G

    I say complainers should have a piece of coal included with their order when it ships! Safe travels today.

  16. Betty Lockhart Avatar
    Betty Lockhart

    Too late for Christmas, but this is on my birthday wish list! More than a long-arm quilter!

  17. Rebecca Avatar
    Rebecca

    I am an applique girl but, I can think of ten friends that will be buying one! Neat idea for the new ruler!!

  18. Dolores Avatar
    Dolores

    June Taylor step aside -creative grid rulers rule!! …. I’ve used the June Taylor ruler in the past and gave it away to a dear friend who needed one. Now I can replace mine with the Creative Grid stripology ruler. At our quilt guild we had a rep from Creative Grid who came and taught a class using the pineapple ruler and then spoke at our evening meeting. The gals fell in love with this stripology ruler and she sold them all!

    PS – I think all of the people who work for you are awesome – always helpful and friendly. Thank you

  19. Kathleen Keough Avatar
    Kathleen Keough

    I tried, I tried, I tried!! I tried not to succumb to the Bongean pull of new and nifty quilty tools, but the pull of the Stripology ruler was just too much! Can you believe that spellcheck just didn’t like the word Stripology – really? I am going to place my order right away. Would love to win the extra ruler so I can give it to a friend who does nothing but make donation quilts with other quilters leftovers.

    Good luck to you and your California posse – looks like the store is going to be a winner. Is California too far for a road trip from PA?

    Have a great holiday!!

    Kathy

  20. Kathleen King Avatar
    Kathleen King

    Can’t wait to see the new shop all completed. Something funny: My mother decided she wanted to buy me a poinsettia plant. While out shopping yesterday, she bought it and when I went to her house last night she presented it to me. The only problem is that it’s not real. Seems this one runs on light and it’s what I would call a bobble head poinsettia plant. If you place it on the window sill, the poinsettia flower and it’s leaves will dance around. My mom thought it was great because you can keep it up all year round without having to water it.

  21. Becky M Avatar
    Becky M

    I just finished an irish chain using 2.5 inch strips. The cutting took me forever. Just ordered the ruler and can’t wait to try it. Not too funny a story but you may get a chuckle. My husband had on his Christmas list a large cast iron grill/griddle pan. I ordered it for him several weeks ago and have been feeling pretty smug that I have his gift figured out and pruchased. That is until I cleaned my pantry yesterday and found the large cast iron grill/griddle that I gave him last year! Evidently we BOTH forgot all about it and I guess it would not qualify as a “needful thing” in our kitchen. I’d rather be sewing anyway. Safe travels.

  22. SallyM Avatar

    Have a great flight home!

  23. DebrafromMD Avatar
    DebrafromMD

    My kids always ask what I want for Christmas, and I never have a good answer. This ruler is going on my list.

  24. Robbi Buckles Avatar
    Robbi Buckles

    I am really not fond of poinsettias and was less than thrilled when my husband surprised me with one last year. They always lose their petals and leaves and just look plain scraggly! Well… Needless to say this little plant just kept growing and growing and got bigger every day. Everyone who came to my house commented on it. Come spring it was still flourishing! When I planted my annuals, I put it in my garden and it was beautiful. It was quite a surprise to see a poinsettia growing in a Michigan garden. We were out of town when an early frost became “her” demise. Wow! I have no idea what I did different with this plant but I am welcoming another this Christmas. Never too late to change I say!!! I am putting this ruler on my birthday wish list. I have plans to use up my stash !

  25. sue Schultz Avatar
    sue Schultz

    Can’t wait to see the snow dance quilt. Love the fabric in the photo. This new ruler looks like one I will have to put on my wish list. I only have one creative grids ruler and I love it. It is the fat quarter ruler and I use it whenever possible. So nice to have a ruler that does not slip. Safe travels.

  26. Nancy Avatar
    Nancy

    We plant poinsettias in the ground in Florida too:).

  27. Theresa K Avatar
    Theresa K

    Adding to my wish list! Wishing you a safe trip home. Happy Holidays!

  28. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    I’m putting this ruler my list of thing I have to have. It’s a long list. LOL . Can’t believe someone complained about your girls at the shop. I think they are awesome. I only get to shop in person with you once a year at Paduach and the rest of the year is online or via phone and the service is alway the best. Let’s put those with nasty people on Santa’s naughty list. Merry Christmas to you and you wonderful staff.

  29. Michelle Avatar
    Michelle

    Just saw the video I have to get it! Poinsettias how festive. Good luck with the new shop Love your color choices.

  30. Debbie Y Avatar
    Debbie Y

    Up on the cutting table material falls, cutting, stripping till I am bald. Oh what a difference a stripology ruler would make, I wouldn’t have to cover up my hairless head. Instead i could be cutting and singing for joy, lookie lookie at The time I saved, oh what a wonderful Christmas toy.
    Ok so I am not a singer, I hope I bring a smile to your face anyway!

  31. Melanie S Avatar
    Melanie S

    Your post about poinsettias made ME smile. In Florida, we have always planted our poinsettias. (They don’t usually survive the summer or occasional frost). The family down the road has a 10 ft poinsettia tree that is covered with flowers this time of year. I don’t know how it knows when to turn red, but it does. It’s green the rest of the year. Thank you for offering this ruler on sale. I have been looking at it and it looks great. Can’t wait to get mine! Also, last year when we visited our grand kids in California we detoured home through Wisconsin?? so I could visit your shop. Your new shop will be right on the way this year. I’m so excited for both of us (you and me!)

  32. Nancy Y Avatar
    Nancy Y

    I have used the June Taylor ruler, but it was always too short….having to move it often. This one looks great! The new store looks great…good luck and congratulations!

  33. Jane Ahler Avatar
    Jane Ahler

    Love the paper bag wall color!

  34. Jane Avatar
    Jane

    It is ironic that you mention people calling to complain, I was in the store in November and within like 2 n minutes phone calls came in asking about orders that were just ordered the Friday and Monday before? Really? Everything I am there the women are busting their butts.

  35. Marcia Avatar

    Ok Lisa-Where does a snowman keep his money?

    I love this ruler and it may just eliminate 15 other rulers from my collection! The video was amazing to watch.

    Your new store is going to be fabulous! Sure wish I lived near either of your stores-I could use a serious Primitive Gatherings fix! I agree with Amy (comment #6). We need your shop in GA!

    Answer–in a snow bank, of course!

    Happy travels!

  36. Jackie S. Avatar
    Jackie S.

    What does every quilter stand under at Christmas Time? Mistle-sew! LOL, made me smile hope it does you too!

  37. minda Avatar

    Anytime I get an order from you it’s Christmas and who doesn’t have other things to do if you have to wait a bit. Throw that pop tart in the microwave with the wrap on and enjoy the sparkling show, water the plants a little too much and enjoy the rain it makes, then lose your car keys at work only to find them where, right in the car where you left them! Then get home and have a package from Primitive Gatherings waiting for you what a great day! To all of you, employees and family, have a wonderful holiday and great opening of the new store.

  38. treadlemusic Avatar

    Just watched the video……..awesome! Am not in love with the June Taylor version. “Paper Bag”…….love!!!!!

  39. Kary Heck Avatar
    Kary Heck

    The ruler looks great. I have one issue -ok let’s be real-more than one BUT only one I am going to put out there. I am left handed, need I say more?

  40. michele Avatar
    michele

    I have the June Taylor ruler and hate it. This one looks like a great improvement.

  41. Nancy Avatar
    Nancy

    Good morning… yes I remember the poinsettias from when we lived in Long Beach ages ago! Geraniums all year round too.
    OK.. still funny to me after many years. When my grandson was about 4/5 years old, he came running out to greet us. Said.. look Grandma, I got some new shoes at the big shoe store. Grandma said… oh boy… which one? He gave me a puzzled look and looked at his feet and said… Well, boof of dem!
    Have a good trip home. This new venture must be exciting, even with all the work to get it up and running!
    Always a few crabby people not happy with anything. But oddles of us who are! Thank you Lisa.

  42. Teresa Avatar
    Teresa

    That ruler looks awsome! I need one so that I can cut out many more projects so that I can hear my husband say, “How many MORE projects have you started without finishing anything?” He just doesn’t get it!!

    1. DaisyS Avatar
      DaisyS

      Well said!

  43. Donna A Avatar
    Donna A

    Ok, I’m not feeling funny right now. I just needed to let you know how proud of you I am — for opening a store so far away from your first one. It’ll make it nice to have a place to go in the winter though. You are very lucky to have good loyal employees to take care of business so you can open another one. We have an open store in town here that would make a perfect place for a quilt shop! So if you are inclined to open another one…….after all, it’s on the way to California. It’d give you a place to stop on your way to and from. Maybe that is kind of funny. This store used to be a fabric store too. Oh well, it’s too much; your plate is about full. I have no complaints about receiving orders from your store. Everything has arrived in a timely manner.

  44. krislovesfabric Avatar

    Adding this ruler to my wishlist, as for something funny…I spent two years finishing a paper pieced quilt for my son and got it done in time for this Christmas so gave it to him early and he and the cat have been fighting over it. I think the cat may win.

  45. Barbara Avatar
    Barbara

    You do have a great staff!! Can’t say enough good about them. Each time I call, they are very helpful. The ruler looks great. Will put it on my list.

  46. Jill Avatar
    Jill

    Sorry to hear about your crabby comments yesterday. My husband likes to say, often…..”Life is too short to be miserable!” He is right. Life is short and in the big picture of life a few extra days of waiting is just a blip in time. Have a safe flight home and the new store is going to be fabulous!

  47. Maureen Avatar
    Maureen

    The ruler looks interesting, worth a try.

  48. Joan Richards Avatar
    Joan Richards

    What do you call the fear of getting stuck in a chimney?
    Santaclaustrophobia

  49. Carol Schallock Avatar
    Carol Schallock

    Wow! What a ruler, can’t wait to get one

  50. Pam Avatar
    Pam

    Lisa I worked in a shipping department for 14 years and understand completely what you are saying. You are the bomb of all designers . Would love this ruler but can’t quite order at this time. Merry Christmas !

  51. Janice Avatar
    Janice

    Enjoyed the video and am impressed, especially with the ability to cut diamonds — accurately! Love the look of the new store. A trip to southern CA may be in my future. Be blessed and be safe.

  52. Carol Schallock Avatar
    Carol Schallock

    And as far as your staff they are wonderful, helpful, what more can you ask for. And that Joanne is on the top of my list. During Christmas open house it was so busy and she helped me and my friend with all our needs. She’s GREAT

  53. VickiT Avatar
    VickiT

    This ruler at first glance does look alot like the one I already have, BUT after your comment that this one is much improved over the one I already have in the PS, I now want to research this one more. Of course, that may mean I’ll have to spend more money and get this new and improved one. Maybe I’ll have to keep my fingers crossed. When you have time, it would be great to know more about why you say this is way improved; you know, in all your spare time. LOL It’s too bad you had to deal with complaints on FB. If I have a complaint, it’s always nice first to reach out to the person first, then if you get no reply at all, take it public if you think you must. I made two orders, two days in a row and got one yesterday. I kinda laughed a bit as the one I got was my 2nd order, but it was nothing I felt the need to rush to FB and complain. Right now shipping is probably the heaviest ever in the entire country from so many shopping from their homes so things are just going to be a bit slower at times. I fully expect my first order will show up today but I don’t blame you or your girls who are working so hard. Have a safe flight.

  54. Kathie Avatar
    Kathie

    I am very excited about your new store! May actually have a chance to go there. I love Wisconsin but it is a long, long way from El Paso!

  55. Janet Avatar
    Janet

    Since I’m a ruler junkie, I think I NEED this one too! Saw the chat on FB yesterday and just shook my head – your staff does an amazing job and there’s nothing so season-spoiling as whiners. See you at Road!

  56. Donna B Avatar
    Donna B

    Sounds and looks like your new store is “in the bag”.

  57. Cindy Avatar
    Cindy

    Wow a store on CA!’!!! Now that will be a huge road trip from IL!!!! Give yourself and your team a huge pat on the back!!! Congratulations and the flowers are beautiful .

  58. Nancy Avatar
    Nancy

    I also love rulers and love the fact that you don’t have to adjust or move this ruler for lefties!! I did take the time to watch the video. Sure makes easy work of cutting!!

  59. Roxanne Ferguson Avatar
    Roxanne Ferguson

    Yet another item I NEED to have. I have the older version from about 10 years ago from a different lady. The very things this new one offers are the NEEDS I had unanswered with the old one. (The 1/4 inch addition and the diamond cutting abilities.) She reads our minds as well….

  60. Sandy Avatar
    Sandy

    Just so you know my order came before I expected! Would love that ruler. The older I get the harder it is to be accurate. Safe travels.

  61. Debi Scott Avatar
    Debi Scott

    You’re products are so wonderful, everyone waits on pins and needles until they arrive in the mailbox. People get disappointed when it doesn’t arrive ‘today’. Unfortunately, some people don’t realize that with the great deal you all offered (and we do so appreciate the deal) LOTS of people wanted to take advantage of that. It just takes time to process all those orders and there are things that get in the way. Those people are just ‘small’ and have no concern for anyone but themselves. You AND your products are so awesome, they are SOOOOOO worth the wait. Thank you all for everything you have done for all of us. You are my first stop every morning on my computer!!!!!!

  62. Pat Morrow Avatar
    Pat Morrow

    Just watched the video and I’m sold. Since my husband never seems to know what to get me for Christmas, you have just taken care of his problem. Thanks

  63. annita Avatar
    annita

    Silly: I just finished my Halloween sewing last night. My husband commented, “aren’t you a little late?”, “No, I’m ready for next year.” Christmas is a week away and I am barely started with my sewing projects. Looks like a few late nights, the strip ruler would be great!

  64. Ann Avatar
    Ann

    I used to demo rulers for a quilt shop run by one of those crabby complainers and when I terminated that relationship (happy life hack #7: end toxic relationships) I swore I would not buy another ruler…BUT…This ruler is the ruler of all rulers!! I will have to get this…after the holidays. (Hey, your snowflakes changed directions!) When are you coming east with a shop? I have thought about opening a small place at my B&B to do quilt retreats and be with my quilting peeps, and it would be all PG cottons and wools, for sure!

    1. Ann Avatar
      Ann

      OK, I will stop playing with the snowdrops now.

  65. Sheila Avatar
    Sheila

    Have to go now and watch this ruler video! Might be just what I need! I am a quilter from Pennsylvania and coal used to be our livlihood. If a child wasnt good they were always threatened with coal in their stockings. I saw those incredibily rude and impatient remarks on Facebook. Too bad you didnt have a few lumps of coal to include with their orders! Who do they hurt I wonder by never ordering again?????Boy that is a no brainer!

  66. Cecilia Avatar
    Cecilia

    I guess it is too early for silly, for I can’t think of anything. 😊 I love the color you are using and the name, paper bag seems funny to me. Thanks for the great giveaways.

  67. Sharon Avatar
    Sharon

    I would love this ruler, I am so happy with the other creative grid rulers I own. I can’t purchase it right now with Christmas & all. Money doesn’t come quite as easy since retirement, but retirement means more time to quilt! I received my order promptly, there always have to be some negative Nancy’s out there.

  68. ardmorescrapbasket Avatar

    Love the “paper bag” paint! We have a store in our town called “The Brown Paper Bag” & they wrap all gifts in brown paper. Our joke is- WE, at Key Grocery and Quitls, are the ORiginal Brown Paper Bag store because we’ve been using brown paper bags since 1943! BTW, I got my order last week ! Good job, girls!

  69. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    I know you said only to comment if you were ordering later but I’m so excited I had to tell you!!! I love those slotted rulers & this one sounds fantastic, I was sold before Gudrun started her demo!! I don’t always comment but I love reading your blog & the shops too!! Just wish you all would post more often!

  70. cs Avatar
    cs

    Love the ruler! Love the paint! Looks like my bedroom walls. When my husband started painting the room the subcontractor asked, “You sure that is the right color?” 🙂 I thought oops, this is going to be bad. It is great! My color is called cappuccino. Every time I admire it I recollect his comment…. Love how it looks with the black. Safe travels.

  71. Jan Harritt Avatar
    Jan Harritt

    Oh the new things that come out for quilters! No wonder it’s such a big industry, but I love tools of all kinds. I think PG is an awesome shop, it’s on the top of my list for online shopping. Living in Idaho, I would have had the same response to the poinsettias! But aren’t they beautiful…

  72. Dee Avatar
    Dee

    Thank you for clarifying that it is not the June Taylor ruler – this is why I have been afraid of this ruler. I would love to give it a whirl. I imagine it is very beautiful to see poinsettas in the ground. However, I had to bite my lip when my hubby thought it was a good idea to give me one for a birthday present our first year together. (Bess his heart we have been married 41 years now) The joys of having a December birthday:) You store is definitely on my have to do it list this year.

  73. ethelann wood Avatar
    ethelann wood

    Wow ! You make me tired just reading about your schedule. Love the new color, makes me feel like I am inside you wool and fabric : ) February in the warmth will be a dream. I love the first snowman gathering and can’t wait for the second. I would love to try this ruler. I think if you can be accurate at the first cut and continue on then you don’t have the worry about squaring up your final block — that never goes well for me. Best of the holidays to you and hope the new shop is a fabulous success for the family.

  74. Kim F. Avatar
    Kim F.

    Have worn out a June Taylor one. Really want to try this.

  75. Sandy K Avatar
    Sandy K

    I don’t have anything funny this morning. I would like to give the ruler a try.

  76. Mary Z Avatar
    Mary Z

    I am the “ruler queen” so no doubt I will have to add this one to my collection! Between my stash and my ruler collection I have quite an inheritance for my kids!

  77. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    Wow, seeing is believing. Less prep time = more sewing time. More sewing time = more finished projects. More finished projects = more fabric. My husband would call this is an enabler, as for me… I am a believer!

  78. Vicki H Avatar
    Vicki H

    I like the paint color Paper Bag. I had my walls painted Sandspit and I love them.

  79. Dana Doerfler Avatar
    Dana Doerfler

    I did see the post yesterday and share your frustration with the complainers…you just can’t please some people! I try to ignore the crankiness on FB…and instead focus on the fun posts – like the Craigslist post from Columbia, MO for a treadle sewing machine that the seller describes as “not functioning due to no electrical hooked up”. It’s still listed – and at a great price since it “isnt’ working”!

    I was looking all over Houston for this ruler after seeing a post from Gudrun a couple of months ago but never ran across it. It looks great and I am glad to hear that you endorse it! I will definitely be adding one to my order!

  80. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    Would love this ruler! When I use June Tailor I end up with snowman arm strips complete with those elbows someone else mentioned here!

  81. Amanda Avatar

    Lisa- Thanks for showing us your shop building process, its a sneak peek that is rare to get. I have one of the old strip rulers, really liked the concept but did more damage than good with it. It always seemed to bend or shift. I would never have looked at a new one, but maybe I need to. Thanks for keeping us informed!

  82. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    I had a really old picture on my FB page so I thought I would just change it. I didn’t think it was working, so I kept at it until I had changed my profile picture about 12 times. I guess my FB friends will just have to enjoy my smiling face-over and over again! Love the ruler-it sure makes cutting look easy.

  83. Marlene LeMay Mason Avatar

    This has nothing to do with anything stitching but it will leave you “in stitches”. (I think – cuz it sure did me)

    This is a story about a couple who had been happily married for years, the only friction in their marriage was the husband’s habit of farting loudly every morning when he awoke the noise would wake his wife and the smell would make her eyes water and make her gasp for air.

    Every morning she would plead with him to stop ripping them off because it was making her sick. He told her he couldn’t stop it and that it was perfectly natural. She told him to see a doctor, she was concerned that one day he would blow his guts out.

    The years went by and he continued to rip them out. Then one Christmas day morning, as she was preparing the turkey for dinner and he was upstairs sound asleep, she looked at the innards, neck, gizzard, liver and all the spare parts, and a malicious thought came to her. She took the bowl and went upstairs where her husband was sound asleep and, gently pulling the bed covers back, she pulled back the elastic waistband of his underpants and emptied the bowl of turkey guts into his shorts. Sometime later she heard her husband waken with his usual trumpeting which was followed by a blood curdling scream and the sound of frantic footsteps as he ran into the bath room. The wife could hardly control herself as she rolled on the floor laughing, tears in her eyes! After years of torture she reckoned she had got him back pretty good.

    About twenty minutes later, her husband came downstairs in his blood stained underpants with a look of horror on his face. She bit her lip as she asked him what was the matter. He said, Honey you were right all these years you have warned me and I didn’t listen to you. What do you mean? asked his wife. Well, you always told me that one day I would end up farting my guts out, and today it finally happened. With some Vaseline and two fingers. I think I got most of them back in.

    Now, for comments on the ruler. I have the June Taylor and rarely use it, however, I am now retired and after the holidays will be quilting full time. I haven’t watched the video yet but will do that and then decide if its for me or not. Thanks for all you do for the Quilting World – Your shop in CA looks like its quite large. I have only been to your WI shop once and I loved it. You introduced me to wool in quilts and table toppers, pin keeps, etc.. and now I’m totally hooked.

    Enjoy your vacation. God Bless!

  84. Linda Smith Avatar
    Linda Smith

    Lisa, Lisa, Lisa! We plant poinsettias in the ground because this IS California! You wouldn’t want your plants to slide out of place during the next earthquake, would you!!!! Welcome to California!!!

  85. Lisa Avatar
    Lisa

    I am so excited to see a new ruler and look forward to exploring it’s capabilities. It is on the wish list for now, hoping to use some Christmas cash to get it from you before your sale ends. Something that made me smile. After visiting Santa(he climbed right up on his lap), my two year old grandson spent the time he was supposed to be napping singing Jingle Bells and interjecting “HO, HO, HO” at regular intervals. Oh, to have the wonder and joy of a child.

  86. Ozark Cajun Avatar
    Ozark Cajun

    Years ago I lived in Hawaii. They have poinsettias in the ground there too…they actually grow to be REALLY big bushes! I think one of the funniest things I ever saw was at Christmas. I guess “Santa” was late for an appointment, because he was running along the side of the road, near the poinsettias, in FLIP FLOPS!! Yes, in Hawaii, Santa wears flip flops!

  87. Karen Olson Avatar
    Karen Olson

    “Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore,” 🙂 It’s a whole different world. Lots of tropical plants grow in California – year round! Great for growing flowers and veggies and fruits. Great wines and cheese too ( in case you’re a cheesehead.)

  88. Ann Avatar
    Ann

    That ruler sounds like both an enabler and it would make me a believer. Almost to good to be true. I hope to get one soon. I have been to California a few times but I guess I have never seen poinsettias growing in the ground. They looked much better than the almost dead one in my living room. Have a good trip home and a happy holidays!

  89. Babs Williams Avatar
    Babs Williams

    Would love to be a free member of a strippers club! Lisa, some people aren’t happy unless they are trying to be ugly to others! I have ordered from PG for years- everyone has always been so nice and helpful!!

  90. Patti Avatar
    Patti

    I really like the strip ruler by June Taylor and am going to get this one by Creative Grids. I have slowly been changing rulers to those by creative Grids. The lines on the rulers and the non-slip grip are nice. On a recent trip to Phoenix I saw there are orange trees everywhere. I asked someone why the oranges on the side of the roads are not picked and she said they are decorative oranges, not for eating. Someone replied – Oh, those must be the ones that are sent to us in Wisconsin.

  91. Diane Avatar
    Diane

    STRIPOLOGY…… Hmmm do you suppose I could sneak this purchase past my husband without him realizing it’s a quilting gadget?

  92. Debra K. Masek Avatar
    Debra K. Masek

    I just began following your blog…enjoy it greatly. Thanks for taking the time to share while you work!! I was most struck by the poinsettias in the ground…we used to live in Pasadena, CA where poinsettias were planted along the sides of houses…and yes…they grew, perhaps they were trimmed that way…to climb the outside wall of houses. I had never seen anything like that; coming from northeast Iowa!!! It is impressive…the variety of flowers and plants that grow in CA.

  93. Veronica Avatar
    Veronica

    I need the stripology ruler so I can “strip in ND when it is 20 below outdoors,” 🙂 Can’t you just see it? Scarey! Set up my cutting table outdoors! LOL
    Gudrun was wise to have Creative Grids make her ruler. Love their products, LOVE your new store, and can’t wait for Snowdance. The light chain looks amazing with your beautiful fabric. My kind of design!
    I got my order a week ago! I was surprised by how quickly it came with all the delays from holiday shipping and volumes of orders. Thank you. Enjoy your trip home.

  94. Bonnie B Quigley Avatar
    Bonnie B Quigley

    Can’t believe how much you can get done everyday, Lisa. Your dad would be so very proud of all you are doing! Just remember, we love you here in Utah — so every time you fly across the country from WI to CA — remember to look down as you come down the west side of the Rockies! There are 100s – maybe 1000s – of quilters here that LOVE you. My sister and I took your wool class at Village Dry Goods a couple of years ago and look forward to seeing you in Sept at the UQG annual meeting. SOOOO happy you are coming to teach!! BTW — love Creative Grids rulers – ready to throw all my green ones away! Thanks for this great deal today!!

  95. Kris Dauth Avatar
    Kris Dauth

    I just purchased this ruler less than a week ago and can already see how much cutting time is saved by using it. What a great buy! This would make an awesome Christmas gift for the quilter in your life.

  96. Paulette Doyle Avatar

    Ohhh I would LOVE to try that ruler!! Looks WONDERFUL!! We are leaving today for California…Palm Springs area…about one hour away from your NEW SHOP!! So exciting!! Please say it will be open before we leaving in April?
    Love the poinsettia on the boulevard! I say BRING IT ON!!
    Paulette

  97. Lizzie Avatar
    Lizzie

    Holy cow….a ruler to cut faster! I love Creative Grids rulers and would love to watch the stripology video but don’t have the updated Adobe flash player ……….and don’t have time to figure that one out:( I think I will go to my sewing room and “stitch” the QUILTS that I have cut ……since I know how to do that EASILY 🙂
    Thanks for the beautiful poinsettias picture!!!

  98. Phyllis Avatar

    Lisa you remind me of a chicken running around first here and a second later there. I don’t know how you do it all and keep your sanity. Phyllis

  99. Laurie kelley Avatar
    Laurie kelley

    Love the ruler!!! Would love to give one as a gift to a good friend! In sun city az we decorate the cactus with Santa hats, wish I could post a picture of my front yard, they really look cute. Can’t wait to see you in murrietta lisa!!🌴🌴🌴

  100. Nancy Amann Avatar
    Nancy Amann

    Lisa, you have way too much energy. I can’t imagine all you have going on! Kudos to you. I love everything you do! Thank you for sharing your tales.

  101. Sally Maddox Avatar
    Sally Maddox

    I can’t wait to try this ruler! I am a math teacher and quilter who loves to do the math involved in quilting, but any tool that makes cutting quicker is a must have! I have taught a couple of friends some things about quilting and most of them are scared of cutting wrong. I can’t wait to get them using this ruler and cutting like mad women!

  102. Susan G. Avatar
    Susan G.

    I have something to make you laugh. How about opening a shop up here in Ontario, Canada!! No? Maybe? We love you up here. By the way, that ruler looks like a very needful thing. Thanks.

  103. Terry Cortez Avatar
    Terry Cortez

    So funny – thought Poinsettias were everywhere. Since I live in So. Calif. these flowers are a mainstay during the holidays. Must make sure that the cellophane that surrounds pots is removed – otherwise the plants will get waterlogged and perish. After Christmas, plant in the ground and enjoy. Am soooo looking forward to your Murrieta store opening.

    Terry in Murrieta

  104. Sherree Givens Avatar
    Sherree Givens

    I love the Stripology Ruler. But it is the season of giving and giving I did. That leaves me a little short in the penny jar. I’ll keep it in mind and get one in the future. Thanks for the link to the demo too!

  105. Diane Remmer Avatar
    Diane Remmer

    Oh Wow, I was just thinking it would be great if there was a ruler with slit in it to make it faster to cut.
    This just blew me away. I hope you and your staff have a great Christmas.

  106. Lou Avatar
    Lou

    Wow! Love the beautiful poinsettias and the way the new shop is coming together. We are getting ready for some snow here in Missouri. Only thing I can think of to share. I use to share with my high school students a cartoon of a snowman in the grocery store. It said “Poor Frosty. He was caught picking his nose in the grocery store.” (Frosty was reaching for a carrot.) Corny but snow makes me think of this.

  107. Marge Avatar
    Marge

    This is definitely a needful thing. Talk about saving time. I must get that one of these days.
    Sounds like you have a full plate. Getting a new store started. You must have energy to burn.
    Marge

  108. Kris Kayser Avatar
    Kris Kayser

    This ruler looks awesome! It is so fun to see all the comments about the products that you are showcasing in the 12 Days of Christmas. It inspires me to get busy sewing!

  109. Jolin Barilla Avatar
    Jolin Barilla

    I saw Gudrun demo this at Rosebud’s Cottage quilt retreat in November, it’s fabulous! BTW, I got my order in less than a week. So there, crabbies. Travel safe!

  110. Nancy Martin Avatar
    Nancy Martin

    Gee. Imagine that!🎅 the store colors are paper bag and black. Next thing you know the Sherwin Williams Company will be approaching you about a PG paint color line. I’m ready. Think about it. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

  111. Barbara F. Avatar
    Barbara F.

    You cut 8 blocks at a time?? WOW!! With this new ruler I could really mis-cut big time! — ha! ha! Looks like another great new tool from Creative Grids. :o)

  112. Barb Onken Avatar
    Barb Onken

    This looks like an awesome ruler. It is going to be on my wish list. I have so many wool projects going I haven’t been quilting as much for now.. I am having coffee in my PG mug I bought at your store. Going to get the new one- my husband keeps using this. What the heck- he has about 20 but picks the 1 mug I have. He has good
    taste I guess,

  113. Mary Colley Avatar
    Mary Colley

    First let me say that the girls who work for you are terrific, always pleasant and helpful and should never get grief from anyone.
    Second, the poinsettias are terrific, I have seen them growing as bushes in some tropical areas but I never realized they could be planted in the ground somewhere in the US.
    Third, Your new store is really coming along. Brown paper sack is a perfect color.
    Forth and to your point. This ryller looks great. I have used the June taylor ruler in the past on some projects where accuracy was not too important. The problem with it is it’s flexible and will slip on you. This creative grid one looks terrific and I plan to order one.
    Hope you trip home is safe and that your holiday is all it needs to be. I will be thinking about you and your family!

  114. Denise Cabral Avatar
    Denise Cabral

    I picked up my little Shit Zue from the groomer yesterday and she cut her ears super short. My 8 month old grand daughter didn’t recognize her and SCREAMED bloody murder when she saw her. It took her all day to warm up to her!!

  115. Karen Avatar
    Karen

    This new ruler looked very interesting, will definitely be getting it. I received my order a few days ago, you and your staff do a great job. I have always been treated courteously when I have called with questions, and have received my orders in a timely manner. Thanks for the great job all of you do. I watched the video of the ruler and can hardly wait to try it out. Anything to make cutting easier and faster😃

  116. Linda A Avatar
    Linda A

    I’m ready to strip! 😳

  117. Becki Pender Avatar
    Becki Pender

    Hi Lisa! I think of you often especially this time of year. It is hard to understand some people! You are the nicest kindest most generous person . NO ONE should be treated with disrespect. Happy Holidays to you and your family.

  118. Sandy pierson Avatar
    Sandy pierson

    Lisa, of course we plant poinsettias in the ground in Ca. Growing up, ours was as tall as the house! Can’t wait for the new store……..

  119. Yvonne Avatar
    Yvonne

    That is an awesome ruler. I have the June Taylor one but this one looks so much better!

    Also, love the paint color – it looks like the perfect prim color!

  120. Janet O. Avatar

    If you want something funny from me you have to catch me at about 2 a.m. when I am getting punchy and fall asleep halfway through sentences and type gibberish. Can’t do much for you at this hour. Sorry. : )
    I really like the looks of this ruler. Have used June Taylor’s product and had problems with slipping and shifting.

  121. Lissa Rogers Avatar
    Lissa Rogers

    First, can you give us a hint at the monthe the Cailifornia store is opening????

    Second, here’s my silly knock-knock joke:
    Cantaloupe.
    Cantaloupe, Who?
    Cantaloupe tonight, my Dad’s got the car!

    Even though I learned this as a child on Captain Kangaroo, it still makes me smile. Safe travels!

  122. Cindi P Avatar
    Cindi P

    Ummm…i was wondering how you thought poinsettias grew…if not from the ground….:) have a safe relaxing trip back to winter in Wisconsin!

  123. sandy L Avatar
    sandy L

    Wow, something to help speed up my cutting time? I’m in. Not too funny this early in the day but am so excited to visit your new store this winter. When do you open???? I’ll be in the area from Jan to March.

  124. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    What nationality is Santa Claus?

    North Polish

    Thanks for all you do for us! Today I have a day off and I’m putting together the wonderful ornaments you posted last week and getting Winter Cabin Table Mat ready to stitch. You make our leisure time a lot more fun! Can’t wait to try out this ruler.

  125. Sally Hurst Avatar
    Sally Hurst

    So happy you are opening a store in So. Calif, I could do cartwheels, (if I knew how to do cartwheels)! LOL

  126. Nancy Maher Avatar
    Nancy Maher

    JEALOUS you aren’t opening a store in St. Louis!!!! Would LOVE to win the new ruler:):)

  127. Kathy Roloff Avatar
    Kathy Roloff

    I have used June Taylor rulers forever. Love the improvements on this ruler. I can’t order now, but I will. I watched the tutorial and was afraid she would hack off a finger. Glad there was no blood shed. Safe travels.

  128. Cheryl  G Avatar
    Cheryl  G

    Thanks for all you do. For those who complain that’s just them. You know they receive their order put in in a drawer or closet and sometimes they forget that they even have it. If they are waiting to get right to work on it then they need to buy more. Not an ufo but a WTD- Wating to Do.

  129. Karen in Breezy Point Avatar
    Karen in Breezy Point

    I love Creative Grids Rulers and this looks like another great one! The video made me so nervous though–it looked like Gudrun was going to nip off her fingertips!

  130. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    Won’t it be wonderful when you’re fighting your way through a snowstorm in Menasha to know you’ve got an
    escape once a month in California to look forward to??? How will you ever duplicate the great staff you’ve
    got in WI, tho!! Thank you for all you do for us!!

  131. Cheryl Reed Avatar
    Cheryl Reed

    Was thrilled to see the poinsettias at Sea Bluffe! Started beach vacations there back in the ’70s and that is where my sons still take their families every summer….great place! Can’t wait to visit your new store!

  132. Sharon Avatar
    Sharon

    Enjoy the holidays…in the midst of all the craziness!
    Sharon

  133. Pame Avatar
    Pame

    I took a class from you in Des Moines in 2013 and was introduced to stream 2 steam by you—am so glad it’s back on the market—love love love it!!! Hope to see you in Paducah

  134. Lisa D Avatar
    Lisa D

    Oh my gosh….I’ve found the only downside to your “Needful Things” list. I want to try EVERYTHING! HaHa I have a couple of the JT rulers and they can be a big time saver but there are also a few things about them I am not wild about. This one seems to improve on ALL of those! OK…must try as I love all my other Creative Grids rulers!! Thanks again for the great tips.

  135. Muriel Avatar
    Muriel

    Oh Lisa you are right “don’t sweat the small stuff, life is too short!”
    The new ruler sounds awesome but this Santa is broke LOL! Wish list for sure.
    I think your ELVES do a great job…they deserve a little candy in their stocking🎁

  136. Wendy Avatar
    Wendy

    The new store is very exciting. Can’t wait to is how it progresses in the coming months. The ruler looks fascinating, must try it out. Our pointsettias only come in pots, they look beautiful all planted in a row.
    Happy Holidays.

  137. Charlotte Avatar
    Charlotte

    Curiosity is killing me even though I am not a cat! Where is the store located? I live in Murrieta and would hate to have to travel up and down the streets looking for it. I promise I won’t bang on the windows ’til opening day.

  138. mary Avatar
    mary

    So sorry some folks have been rude. I remember taking a class from you and you told us how many of a certain kit you had sold and we were stunned, knowing how much time they took to make. This is supposed to be fun! You tube for this ruler is great. What did we do before we could see demos of things? Your new shop looks great and you’ll get to escape winter a bit.

  139. Stacy McDaniel Avatar
    Stacy McDaniel

    Lisa
    I love the new ruler because I’m not. jT fan -it always slips on me. So I really need this for Christmas! Not sure I can top Marlene’s joke I laughed out loud. I will share a funny story from Paducah . I was there – as you know- with all my girls and we were walking along the river wall admiring the murals. We got into a debate about which of the rivers combined to make that river and now could decide. Me, being my normal talk to random people self, saw a guy painting a sign on a building. I said I’ll ask this guy he’s probably local and can tell us. Before my friends could stop me I walked up to him and said “you look like a nice local guy, can you answer a question for us” that’s when I noticed the cop sitting on the steps and read the writing on the back of his coveralls- which read – property of McCracken county jail! Needless to say the nice officer asked me to just move along!! My friends wre dying – they tell me all the time to stop talking to strangers. But you know me Lisa and it won’t happen! Anyway thanks for the chance to win. Safe travels home!
    Stacy McDaniel

  140. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    I’m a transplant, too. Wait ’til you see the poinsettias that are as high as a roof just because someone stuck one in the ground. Then there’s the Bottlebrush plant/bush and the stunning tree with purple blossoms in late April/early May. Did you notice I’m not telling you the name – it’s because the sunny weather zapped my brain. If I’d stayed in Buffalo, all that shoveling and cold weather would have kept the brain cells working better. Eureka! I remembered, it’s the Jacaranda. I’ll check out the ruler later after I look some more for the book I lost. It’s right where I left it but where I’m looking, I’m not finding it.

  141. Bonnie Larson Avatar
    Bonnie Larson

    I’ve been eyeing the new ruler. i love Gudrun’s patterns, so this looks like a neat tool to try. Thanks so much for sharing and enjoy your warmth in Jan.

  142. Cynthia Regone Avatar
    Cynthia Regone

    I have heard about this ruler and I would love to have one to use on future projects. Aren’t we the luckiest quilters in the world to have such great tools. Cynthia Regone

  143. wendy Avatar
    wendy

    Can’t wait for the Murrieta store!!! My little friendship group has already scheduled a field trip for March. That ruler really looks like a time saver!! Just don’t mind the grumpy people…they are probably snowed in!!!!!!!! You will find Cali people, in general, happier people because of all our sunshine. There are exception though…some are just Eyore personalities all the time. Go figure. The shop is looking good……see you at RD2CA next month.

    1. Shirley Avatar
      Shirley

      Must confess I have never used this product, but would like to give it a try, love the last shot of the poinsetta

  144. Lori Albrechtsen Avatar
    Lori Albrechtsen

    Lisa–This may not make you laugh but it’s definitely food for thought, especially regarding the negative comments from the customers in your post…

    Be positive

    “I am asking that we stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we “accentuate the positive.” I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment virtue and effort. I am not asking that all criticism be silenced. Growth comes of correction. Strength comes of repentance. Wise is the man who can acknowledge mistakes pointed out by others and change his course.

    What I am suggesting is that each of us turn from the negativism that so permeates our society and look for the remarkable good among those with whom we associate, that we speak of one another’s virtues more than we speak of one another’s faults, that optimism replace pessimism, that our faith exceed our fears. When I was a young man and was prone to speak critically, my father would say: “Cynics do not contribute, skeptics do not create, doubters do not achieve.”–Gordon B. Hinckley

    With Love,
    Lori

  145. Juel Avatar

    The ruler looks really neat – would LOVE to win one! Also, it hurts me to hear people were complaining. Your team I have found to always been outstanding, helpful, patient and kind whenever I call. Quilting is supposed to be fun, not something to B_ _ ch about. Life is way too short for this. You have to expect delays when ordering after a big open house and with shipping delays even from the ports this year. I got my order the end of last week and loved everything I ordered.

    Thank you also for sharing pics of the new location! Fun to see flowers when we are freezing and covered in snow. Keep up the good work. Your designs continue to amaze me and brighten my life and creativity! Happy Holidays!

  146. Michelle Devitt Avatar
    Michelle Devitt

    May have to try this ruler, anything that can help me cut faster is a good thing. Peace Michelle

  147. Susie Brown Avatar
    Susie Brown

    Peoplet who fuss about not getting there orders fast eno ugh need to put up another Christmas tree or two..It is hard to be crabby and festive at the same time! Lol!