Tag: #QuiltAlong

Sewcialites 2 – Block 10 “Flourish”

Good morning, and welcome back to another exciting episode of “Sewcialites 2 Friday!” Today we celebrate Block #10 – “Fourish” by Lori Holt of Bee in My Bonnet Company. Lori grew up as a farm girl in a small town and remembers her childhood as being, “happily immersed in all things domestic” – including stitching! As a child, she spent many hours designing clothes for her dolls, sewing them together, crocheting, and doing embroidery. These days, you’ll find Lori putting her creative foundation to work as a fabric and quilting notions designer for Riley Blake Designs. She also teaches, is the author/designer of several successful quilting books and patterns, and has developed her own yarn collection. Cool!

Lori’s style is inspired by the beauty of the earth, family memories, and the love of God. She finds joy in things like stacks of colorful fabrics, pretty papers, aprons, buttons, embroidery, old dishes, gingham and calico, sprinkles, glitter, and all things vintage (can you relate? I know I sure can). If I had to describe her block “Flourish“ I would say it’s an excellent representation of all of those things because when you look at it, it seems like it has a lot going on! This block is a combination of eight half-square triangles, eight flying geese, and one square in a square. Even though it’s rated as “experienced” on the skills requirement scale, Kim Jolly deemed it, “totally doable.” In other words, don’t panic. It’s not as complicated as it looks, it just has a lot of units. Nothing a little triangle paper won’t fix! Oh, and remember if you need to stock up on triangle paper I have a full selection available in the shop! Click HERE to shop my exclusive Primitive Gatherings Triangle Papers!Busy yet beautiful, “Flourish” leaves the door open for an infinite number of design, color, and fabric combinations. How are you going to handle this one? I’m anxious to see what you come up with for your version of this energetic design, so let’s get at it! You can find everything you need to get started on “Flourish” including the pattern, project instructions, sewing techniques, tips, and advice from Lori Holt on her blog by clicking the button below! 

How are your blocks coming so far? Are you on track or have you fallen behind a little after the holidays? Maybe you haven’t even started at all… Let me know how you’re doing in the comments! If you’ve been following along with my progress so far, you know that I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line for this quilt-along, leaving out the five tans. What do you think so far? Personally, I’m loving it.

For the background I’m using a selection from the Garden Gathering Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. If you like what you see and need it in your life A.S.A.P. click the button avove to order!

I know some of you are still trying to decide whether or not to participate in Sewcialites 2, and I really think you should. Don’t worry about being behind. One of the best parts of this quilt-along is that you can do it on your time, however your schedule allows – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks are posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page along with my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

Newly released blocks can always be found on Kim’s blog The Jolly Jabber, along with a video tutorial on her YouTube Livestream the same day. Each designer will also post their own block to either their blog or their website on that day as well. I will also be posting each block release here on MY blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

I hope you all enjoy keeping up with these quilt-alongs as much as I do. If you haven’t noticed, I don’t like to sit still very often. I love quilt-alongs because they’re fun, supportive, and tend to keep me on track – even if I’m in the middle of 15 other projects! It’s way too easy to start a project with good intentions only to set it aside for another one shortly after. At least with a quilt-along you have your very cheer team encouraging you make progress each week. I love it!

Alright everyone, that’s it for now! I may pop on again later today to talk about a few items we’ve recently added to the website that I’m really excited about – especially since I know a lot of you have been waiting ever so patiently for them. If you’re super curious and haven’t yet seen STITCH with Lisa Bongean this week, you can always catch the replay by hitting the link below. Have a great day and do your best to get some stitching therapy in. Catch you later! ~Lisa

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Sewcialites 2 – Block 9 “New Plus Old”

Good afternoon friends! I was just thinking to myself that this is one Friday you won’t catch me saying, “T.G.I.F.” on, so I’ll just say happy New Year’s eve-eve to you instead. I have pretty much been laying low this week, trying to stay away from work so I can recharge a little before the new year…. and I have to say, it’s been really nice! Aside from stopping into the studio for a few things here and there I’ve managed to give myself a little bit of a much-needed break from the grind, while spending the last few days hanging out with my grandsons Jace and O-Bug. I have always really loved the Christmas holiday, but there is something extra special about sharing it with them. Such young and curious minds full of wonder only add that much more to the magic. Ahh, to be young again… On the other hand, I am really enjoying being a “Mimi.” It has been one of the greatest accomplishments of my life so… I guess I won’t wish away a good thing. 🙂

As I mentioned, working this week has been on my list of things to do but in small doses, so I’m not going to spend too much more time sitting at my desk this afternoon. We do need to cover one important thing before I get back to fun and games, however, and that’s talk about this week’s Sewcialites 2 block release! I hope after a week off you’re all caught up and ready to get started on Block 9, “New Plus Old” by Brigitte Heitl of Zen Chic. Originally from Germany, Brigitte learned to sew from her grandmother when she was only six years old! Once she got older, the love of designing and sewing her own clothing lead her to choose Interior Design as her course of study in college. She found herself increasingly intrigued by the students down the hall who were using needle, thread, and of course fabrics within their curriculum, and eventually ended up changing her direction toward textile design. From there, an accidental encounter with a quilting book sparked a newfound infatuation with patchwork, which ultimately resulted in her online shop and fabric line designs.

Brigitte describes her quilt designs as a reduced and pure with a clear style. She represents the modern area of quilting, yet highly regards the experiences and history that goes into our centuries-old quilting traditions. For this block, her goal was to contribute a design that looks wonderful in both modern and traditional quilt patterns. If you know her work at all, you may have noticed that she has a bit of a “thing” for plus blocks. “New Plus Old“ block follows suit with its simple yet aesthetically pleasing layout, earning it the rank of “Beginner Level” on the skills requirement scale.

When describing “New Plus Old“ Brigitte says that it’s easy to sew, and versatile enough to create a variety of different design, color, and fabric combinations. I know you’re anxious to see what you come up with for your own version of this fun little design so let’s get to it! You can find everything you need to get started on “New Plus Old” including the pattern, project instructions, sewing techniques, tips, and advice from Brigitte by visiting her blog by clicking the button below!

If you’ve been following along so far, you know that for my blocks I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line, without the five tans. For the background I plan to use a selection from the Garden Gathering Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. If you like what you see and need it in your life A.S.A.P. click the button below to order!

If you’re still trying to decide whether or not to participate in Sewcialites 2? don’t worry about being behind. One of the best parts of this quilt-along is that it’s never too late to start – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page along with my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

Newly released blocks can always be found on Kim’s blog The Jolly Jabber, along with a video tutorial on her YouTube Livestream the same day. Each designer will also post their own block to either their blog or their website on that day as well. I will also be posting each block release here on MY blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

Alright, now that we got that all out of the way, what do you say we give away a couple of prizes? I can’t let the new year start off on boring foot so in honor of the holiday let’s do double again today. I mean because, why not?!? Suzann R., Cindy P., Pam P., and Leann K. – Please check your emails – YOU are the lucky prize winners this week! 

By now you should all know the drill but just in case you don’t, please remember that I do not post last names or email addresses for your privacy, so if you think you’re one of the lucky winners this week please be sure to check your email. You can also contact Heidi at heidin@primitivegatherings.us if you have not already received a prize confirmation letter from her. She will use your email address to confirm that you are in fact the winner (if you think you are a winner but have not received a prize confirmation email, please be sure to check your spam folder – it’s not often but our emails occasionally will end up there)!

Again, thank you all so much for continuing to leave me comments. I’d LOVE to give a prize out to each and every one of my readers and I think I have a pretty good start… If you haven’t been a winner yet, don’t give up! I have plenty more where that came from so please, leave me a comment so you too can be chosen! Want a hot tip? If your “handle” or user name is not your actual name, please leave your first name and last initial in the comment so I know what your name is. Otherwise I don’t have a good way of calling you out as a winner without exposing your email address. Simple enough I’d say!

Well folks, I can hear an awful lot of commotion and giggling coming form the other room and something is telling me I should probably go investigate. I hope you all have a SAFE and happy New Year’s eve and day. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do… and if you do, send pictures! You know what they say – no pictures = it didn’t happen. Maybe it’s better that way. LOL! See you all next week everyone.~Lisa

 

 

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Sewcialites 2 – Block 7 “Butterfly Garden”

Hey again! As promised I’m back with this week’s Sewcialites 2 block release. If you’ve been following along and have managed to stay on track, you should be just about ready to start Block #7, “Butterfly Garden.“ This block was designed by Pat Sloan of The Voice of Quilting (patsloan.com). Pat is an accomplished quilt designer, book author, radio/podcast show host, fabric designer, and business owner. She has been sewing since she was a child when she started with clothing for her dolls, and eventually herself. She stuck with that until she discovered and fell in love with quilting. To date, she has now been quilting for over 20 years!

“Butterfly Garden“block is definitely not the easiest block in the series, which is why it’s given the “experienced” rating on the block skill level. I think the trick to success with this one is pinning or glueing your corner squares, thinking ahead, and making sure to get the placement of the fabrics correct. In other words, take your time! Go slow and don’t rush yourself. As you can see, Pat designed this block utilizing corner squares to create the overall butterfly shape. This block is a bit more on the tricky side so if you’re feeling intimidated, don’t worry. Kim Jolly over at Fat Quarter Shop has an excellent step-by-step video tutorial posted on YouTube to help you along if you should need it. You can access that plus the full pattern and instructions at the on the Sewcialites 2 Block #7 Landing Page by clicking the link below!If you’re new to this quilt-along and haven’t seen my progress so far, you should know that for my blocks I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line, without the five tans. For the background I plan to use a selection from the Garden Gathering Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. If you’ve been following along and have already made your fabric selections that’s awesome! Let me know what they are and what size blocks you plan to make in the comments – I’d love to hear your ideas!

If you’re still trying to decide whether or not to participate in Sewcialites 2, that’s perfectly ok! One of the best things about this quilt-along is it’s never too late to start – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page along with my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

Newly released blocks can always be found on Kim’s blog The Jolly Jabber, along with a video tutorial on her YouTube Livestream the same day. Each designer will also post their own block to either their blog or their website on that day as well. I will also be posting each block release here on MY blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

Well gang, I hope everyone has a great weekend. I have a feeling tonight is going to be late one over at The Gathering as we wrap up the last full day of our Naughty or Nice retreat. We are all having a blast getting to know each other and stitching the days and nights away. I’m super proud of everyone at the retreat. Despite all the fun and games we actually got a ton of work done too. Just look at these works of art!

On Wednesday we even felt a little adventurous so I decided to take everyone ice skating at a schnazzy local rink that gets some of the best ratings in the nation. I can’t tell you how pumped I was about this idea which is why it was so disappointing to get there only to find out they’re not open on Wednesdays. Who knew! Needless to say it was a bummer, but we had fun anyway. Who knows, maybe it was a blessing in disguise… I haven’t been on skates in a long time and a broken wrist is literally about the last thing I need. In any case, there will be plenty of time for winter fun in the next few weeks once the snow starts to hit the fan. Either way I really appreciate everyone’s willingness to join me on my impromptu adventures. I really could not have asked for a better group of ladies to spend the week with!I know many of you are anxious to get your hands on the projects we worked on during this retreat. They included a reindeer-themed banner called “Reindeer Camp“ – a quick and easy project that makes decorating for the holiday super convenient, my latest pillow masterpiece “Oh Sh*t Pillow“ featuring everyone’s secret best friend – the seam ripper, and a charming quilt that Alysha designed featuring a snowman and snowflakes. Due to popular demand, I’ve decided to go ahead and make “Reindeer Camp” and the Oh Sh*t Pillow“ available to pre-order now so that they can ship as soon as we finalize the pattern. Unfortunately the snowman quilt isn’t quite ready yet, but it will be available sometime in the future. Both the banner and the pillow are simple and fast projects that you can easily hammer out in a weekend if you put the effort into it. Like what you see? Click the link below to pre-order now! Our goal is to have these items shipped by December 12th.Well friends, it’s time to hang it up for the night. I can’t believe it’s 6 o’clock already! I swear, where does the time go… I will see you all back here bright and early tomorrow morning for our next flash sale. Have a great weekend! Maybe get some shopping done, stitch a little… Anybody baking anything good? I’m thinking I might do a bit this weekend. In fact, let me know in the comments what your favorite holiday treats are to make. I need some ideas! See you soon. ~Lisa

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Sewcialites 2 – Block 5 “Empower”

Whew – what a day! I can’t even say T.G.I.F. this week because our annual Primitive Christmas event isn’t over until Sunday night! As you can imagine it’s been a total zoo around here today with all the buzz being generated by this annual Primitive Gatherings holiday tradition. The day totally whizzed by and I can’t believe it’s almost 6:00 p.m. already. I’m actually glad for once that it’s getting darker so much earlier… The blue light of evening starting to glow through the windows was the only thing that alerted me to the fact that it’s getting to be so late in the day. Time really does fly when you’re having fun!

If you’re not quite sure what Primitive Christmas is all about, let me give you a quick rundown. Primitive Christmas is an open-house event we put on every year designed to welcome the holiday season with open arms. Guests are invited to join us here at Primitive Gatherings and The Gathering now through Sunday November 20th, 2022 for fresh cookies and hot cider, the 2022 Red & White Quilt Challenge Show, exclusive FREE newly released holiday patterns (with a minimum purchase of $40.00 – sorry, offer does not include pre-ordered items), and more! Yes, you read that right. Primitive Christmas is your chance to get four of my most recent holiday pattern releases FREE (including one kit!) along with our annual calendar of events just by doing something you were most likely going to do anyway – spending $40.00 at Primitive Gatherings (purchase must total $40.00 before tax and shipping – offer available both online or in-store)! Check these out!

Aren’t they adorable? And none of these projects are excessively difficult. With a little determination you could easily get at least one or two done by the time the 25th of December rolls around – just in time to hand them out as gifts to a lucky family member or friend. I love them all! And there’s no better time to grab them up considering you can get them FREE with your $40.00 minimum purchase! Remember, you can participate in this event – including purchase the make-n’-take projects – all from the comfort of you own home by shopping on our website! Ready to shop? Hit the button below to see what all the fuss is about!

Have you heard about our event make-n’-take projects? In addition to the holiday must-haves you’ll be getting with your minimum $40.00 purchase, we also have four quick, easy, and ADORable make-‘n’-take projects available to make on-site now through 17th through Saturday November 19th, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. CST (all make-n’-takes will be at The Gathering). Projects available will include a 2022 cross stitch ornament, painted Santa rocks, a fleece wine bottle hat and scarf set, and our brand new fresh-cut wool and homespun Christmas tree pillows (the make-n’-take project is the small size tree = appx 8″). Can’t make it here in person? No problem! You can also purchase our make-n’-take projects online!

There are so many awesome things going on here and so many great people to talk to, it’s hard to say what my favorite thing about all of this is. On that same hand, I can tell you for sure what the best part of TODAY was – that’s a no-brainer. Puppies! As you all know, each Primitive Christmas we choose a charity to benefit from your generosity combined with a portion of the profits generated by this great event. This year I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that our charity of choice is Our Pack Animal Rescue – a WI based, non-profit organization looking to improve the lives of animals, share education, and give back to the community. Though they are located in New London, WI they service pets and shelters in need all over the Fox Valley in WI. Their mission is simple: Rescue. Rehab. Re-home. Repeat. The kind folks at the rescue were nice enough to bring over some VERY cute and adoptable special guests to visit us at The Gathering this afternoon!

I promised cuteness overload, and we certainly delivered – all thanks to the wonderful volunteers at Our Pack Animal Rescue. I can’t wait to present them with your generous donations! They certainly deserve it. They’re doing God’s work after all! And want to know the best part of the best part? Several, if not all the pups who visited us today were placed in forever homes! If that’s not reward enough, I don’t know what is. I’m absolutely over the moon for these sweet pups and their new families. We really couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome. Happy “gotcha day” to them all!!!

Alright, alright… I suppose I should quit gushing about Primitive Christmas, and puppies, and cider, and cookies, and all the things, and talk about this week’s Sewcialites 2 block release. That’s actually why I came up here to write – because it is Friday after all – but I couldn’t help myself from talking at least a little about such a phenomenal day! This week’s block is the fifth in the series for this QAL. Block #5, “Empower“ was designed by Carrie Nelson of Miss Rosie’s Quilt Company. Be warned, “Empower“ is the most difficult block in the entire QAL. The concept of this block is easy enough since it is basically a small basket made four times, but don’t let that fool you – it will definitely test your skills. Aesthetics wise, Kim Jolly from Fat Quarter Shop recommends choosing four different colored fabrics and four different prints, along with a background that isn’t busy to help your baskets to pop.

Kim also emphasizes the importance of pressing, and not stretching your fabric while making this block. “Empower“ is tricky and is going to take some time to do it correctly. Have patience and give yourself enough time to go slow – don’t rush! If you’re doing the 3″ version it is going to be way more difficult that if you’re doing the 9″, but either way this block is a challenge. Don’t be scared, I have faith in you! If you’re feeling nervous remember you can always watch Kim’s video tutorial for step-by-step guidance. I know you’re ready to grab this bull of a block by the horns, so wait no longer! You can find the pattern and full instructions by clicking the link below! As I’ve mentioned in past posts, for my blocks I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line, leaving out the five tans. For the background I am using a selection from the Garden Gatherings Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. With every week that passes by I’m more and more sure that I made the right decision for my fabric. It’s eye candy by definition! I love the fact that this quilt has three size options including 3”, 6”, and 9” – I am doing the 6″ version. I really can’t wait to see this beauty all finished… I think it’s really going to be something to look at – especially since Garden Gatherings is one of my favorite collections of all time! If you are head over heels for this fabric line like I am and want to use it for your Sewcialites 2 quilt, simply follow the link below to shop Garden Gatherings for all the fabric you need!

I know a lot of you are still trying to decide whether or not to participate in the Sewcialites 2 Quilt Along. Let me just say that one of the best things about Sewcialites 2 is that it’s never too late to start – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks will always be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page. To make it even easier you can also find them here on my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

I will be posting each new block release here on my blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns are posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

Alright gang, I am officially exhausted! I still need to get home and figure out what’s on the menu for supper tonight, plus do some laundry and other organizing all before I come back tomorrow to do it all over again! I hope you’re having fun during our little Christmas shindig – it really is the best time of the year! I will see you all on Monday here on the blog, and again on Tuesday for Shop Talk with Shelley at 9:30 a.m. LIVE on YouTube. Tune in to watch by hitting the Shop Talk button below. See you there! Take care and have a GREAT weekend! ~Lisa

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Sewcialites 2 – Block 4 “Flirty”

Hey everyone! Have you been able to stay on track with the Sewcialites 2 Quilt Along? I hope so because just like that, it’s already time for the next block release! This week we have Block 4 to play with. “Flirty“ was designed by Chelsi Stratton of A Quilting Life – a mother-daughter quilting and design team based out of southern Nevada. Chelsi is otherwise a stay-at-home mom who enjoys using her creative side to design patterns for her Etsy shop, fabrics for Moda, and writing her own quilting blog. She is also passionate about nature, music, and fashion, which are the things that inspire her style today. As the daughter of an avid quilter and pattern designer, Chelsi is someone who has always loved the creative process. You could say working with fabric and design within her career was obviously inevitable!

Chelsi says that these days she’s especially drawn to blocks with a lot of color and geometric shapes, which is easy to see in “Flirty.” She refers to this block as simple and sweet, with nice size pieces that are easy to work with. Her straightforward yet elegant design offers plenty of opportunity to show off your favorite fabrics. Got a scrap pile a mile high? This block makes the perfect scrap buster! It’s also a good one for those of you who have a stash of leftover half-square triangles from past projects laying around.

You can do this block in a controlled fashion or go crazy scrappy – it’s up to you! Either way, this beginner friendly project will go together quickly and easily, even for the novice quilter. Don’t let the simplicity of the pattern turn you off. Use your imagination and the possibilities are endless. Alright! Time to get stitching. Click the button below to get the pattern and full instructions for “Flirty!”

As I’ve mentioned in earlier posts, for my blocks I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line, leaving out the five tans. For the background I am using a selection from the Garden Gatherings Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. Just look at those yummy colors and adorable prints. I can’t stop looking at it!

I love the fact that this quilt has three size options including 3”, 6”, and 9” – I am doing the 6″ version. I really can’t wait to see this beauty all finished… I think it’s really going to be something to look at – especially since Garden Gatherings is one of my favorite collections of all time! If you are head over heels for this fabric line like I am and want to use it for your Sewcialites 2 quilt, simply follow the link below to shop Garden Gatherings for all the fabric you need!

I know a lot of you are still trying to decide whether or not to participate in the Sewcialites 2 Quilt Along. Let me just say that one of the best things about Sewcialites 2 is that it’s never too late to start – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks will always be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page. To make it even easier you can also find them here on my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

I will be posting each new block release here on my blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns are posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

As I’m packing up my things here in the studio for the weekend and looking out the window, I can’t quite believe that yesterday was over 70°- and downright balmy too! Now today we’re sitting at just around 30º, if that. Not a dramatic change or anything… Oy! I feel sorry for people with arthritis! All the dramatic changes in the weather lately make me wonder what’s in store for us this winter. I hate to say it, but the last few were what I would consider fairly mild for WI. I can remember in years past where the snow was piled so high we ran out of places to put it! We had multiple white-out blizzards and white Christmases – every year! Now days it’s anyone’s guess as to how the weather will be over the holidays. At least being a WI girl, I’m used to a fickle four-seasons and Mother Nature being forever unpredictable. Snow, rain, hail, sleet, ice…all five combined… We take it as it comes – and drive in it too! Some people really hate winter driving but I don’t mind for the most part. I have a reliable four wheel drive vehicle and tires designed to handle it. Just because it snows doesn’t mean I don’t need to be somewhere! Snow might equal slow, but it doesn’t have to mean stop!

Ok gang, it’s getting to be about time for me to head out for the weekend. But before I go, I think a great way to end the week would be to give away some prizes! I’ve been getting some really great comments on the blog lately. Thank you, I really do enjoy reading them! Your kind and encouraging words help keep me going every day! It’s so nice to know that people generously take time out of their busy lives to read my blog and watch my LIVE shows. Your thoughts, feelings, and opinions mean a lot to me. You have no idea how hard it is to choose a winner each week! It’s really not an easy job. That being said, please keep your comments coming! Each and every one helps us stay afloat in the wild sea they call social media. In other words, your comments matter! Plus, you could win a prize for it. Just like Helen L. and Barbara B. – our lucky prize winners this week! That’s right! They won a little something simply for commenting on my blog in the last couple of weeks. As usual, I don’t post last names or email addresses for your privacy, so if you think you’re one of these lucky winners, please be sure to check your email A.S.A.P.! You can also contact Heidi at heidin@primitivegatherings.us if you have not already received a prize confirmation letter from her. She will use your email address to confirm that you are in fact the winner! Want to be considered for a prize? All you have to do is be like Helen and Barbara and leave me a comment! 

Have a great weekend everyone. See you next week as we continue to prepare for the arrival of our annual Primitive Christmas event. Set your reminders now! We’ll be going LIVE Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. CST for a special Primitive Christmas update. Click the button below to get all the latest information and details about the event, including sneak peaks! You don’t wanna miss this one. See you all soon! ~Lisa

 

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MBH4 – Block #21 – Shiny Bauble

Happy Wednesday Blockheads! This week’s MBH4 block “Shiny Bauble“ is a block that’s aesthetically different than the others we’ve seen so far in this quilt-along. Large, obtuse triangles immediately catch your eye with small, square pieces sandwiched in the middle. “Shiny Bauble” is by Janet Clare, a Moda fabric designer known for inspirational and lively designs that combine her unique jointed appliqué templates, and free motion machine drawing techniques. Her work is often inspired by children and their purity of thought, innocence, and the joys they find in simple, everyday things. Similar in thought, “Shiny Bauble“ was designed around Christmas time and was inspired by the shape and sparkle of a shiny Christmas ornament. Can you see it?

If you’ve never tried your hand at foundation paper piecing and want to give it a try, this is the perfect block for you! The pieces are on the larger side which makes them much easier to work with compared to blocks with smaller units. Using the tried and true sew n’ flip technique gives you straight and accurate lines, making short work of the triangles involved in this block. There are a couple of different shading options for this design, loosening the reigns and opening up endless possibilities for color combinations and theme. I saw one example where it was done to look like peas in a pod. Another stitcher made the comment that she wanted to try making it to look like a stop-and-go light. Clever! What will you do with this design? Get the full instructions and pattern on Janet’s blog by clicking the button below!

For my “Shiny Bauble” blocks I stuck with the same color scheme I have been using in previous weeks, but changed up fabric lines this time around. I am still using a medium orange Bella Solid called “Ochre” as my background color and decided on a white Zen Chic with a light gray newsprint theme for the larger triangle elements. For something new, I chose a super cute black fabric adorned with tiny white hearts by Sweetwater for the center squares. I really like it!

If you’re quilting along with MBH this year, I hope you’ve been able to stay on track and are all caught up. We’re almost done with only seven more weeks to go until the end. Boy, saying that out loud is a bit of a reality check and kind of makes me sad. It’s like each block that I complete ticks another week of summer off the calendar… Just like with summer, I’m not ready to be done – I think I’m going to miss it once it’s over! Something tells me that I’ll have plenty to keep me occupied however, especially with fall and winter holidays right around the corner! 

Are you still thinking about doing this QAL? It’s not too late to start! All the information you’ll need including the previously released MBH4 blocks that I’ve done are available in the Moda Blockheads 4 Archive listed in the main menu of links at the top of my blog page. You can also visit Moda’s Inspiration+Resources Center Page for more information, along with all released bonus blocks by clicking HERE! If you’re having trouble keeping all the details straight, you can also sign-upo to receive Moda’s weekly Blockheads blog posts via e-mail at the Inspiration+Resources Center as well.

Well everyone, it’s time to get back over to the retreat house. I’m here working again on another Wednesday because it’s our Anniversary week! I’m super proud to be celebrating 19 years in business and one year here at our new Larsen, WI location. We’re honoring it with open Sit & Stitch through Friday from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM each day. The cost to participate is only $25.00 and includes lunch! It’s a great opportunity to meet new fellow stitchers and an excellent place to find advice and resources! Bring your machine and set up shop in our huge project area, complete with cutting and steaming tables, excellent lighting, and plenty of power sources!

To add to the fun we’re also featuring a different make-n’-take project each day through Friday. Today we’re working on a super cute thread spool project (participation fee = $40.00 – if you have extra old thread spools, please bring them!). I think this piece is especially cool because we are using recycled sewing items to make sewing-themed art. You can spruce up any sewing room, den or even kitchen with this charming piece as either hanging décor or a tabletop conversation piece. If you’re feeling extra ambitious and have a lot of spools to use up, I bet a set of three in different sizes would be extra adorable.

The fun continues tomorrow when my sister Lisa and I (yes you read that right!) will be demonstrating how to go about making a 12″ mini barn quilt (participation fee = $50.00). These mini barn quilts are so much fun to do, and the design possibilities are endless! If you’re a fan of colorful geometric shapes in your décor but you don’t have time for large quilting projects, mini barn quilts could be for you! There’s only one way to find out, come give it a try!I’ll be wrapping demos on Friday August 12th, 2022 with our final project, an adorable small fabric tote (participation fee = $25.00). This bag is a perfect size for running quick errands or transporting a small project. It easily could take the place of a purse if you just need something light to throw your keys and wallet into, rather than having to lug around your entire bag. I have several of these and use them for all sorts of things.

NOTE: All make-n’-take projects are available from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM on their scheduled day only, and are located at The Gathering. SPACE IS LIMITED! Please sign up by calling 920-778-8031 if you plan to participate!

Don’t forget, on top of all the goodies we’re also offering 20% OFF store-wide, both in-store and online through this Sunday, August 14th, 2022! That’s 20% OFF your favorite patterns, kits, threads, notions, books, and sew much more (sale does NOT include sewing machines, Garden Gatherings pre-cuts or yardage, pre-ordered items, thread kits, Creative Grids Rulers, the PG 2022 Holiday Box, “Letters for Santa” QAL bundles, O’ Say Can You Sew QAL bundles, Meet Me in the Garden merchandise, or any other discounted items or fabric)!

Exciting stuff right!? If you’d like a little tour of the shop so you can get an idea of all the great things we have on sale right now you can watch the replay of “Shop Talk“ with Jess from Tuesday by clicking HERE! She walks you through section by section, giving you an excellent perspective of everything we have to offer! Check it out… I bet we have things you didn’t even know you wanted! 

I will see you all on Thursday at 1:00PM CST on “Stitch with Lisa Bongean“ LIVE on my YouTube channel! I’ll be talking more about our big anniversary celebration along with some announcements and other hot topics, so don’t miss it! And while you’re there, don’t forget to comment! We love interacting with you both LIVE and here on my blog! Of course, there might be a prize in it for you… This week I want to say congratulations and THANK YOU for following my blog to Jody R! Woo hoo! You are this week’s prize winner! As usual I don’t post last names or email addresses for privacy’s sake, so if you think you’re the lucky winner-winner this time around, please check your email! You can also contact Heidi at heidin@primitivegatherings.us if you have not already received a prize confirmation letter from her. She will use your email address to confirm that you are in fact the winner!

Alright! That’s it for now. I will see you all very soon. Until then, take care and always remember to…

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