Random Monday

Thanks to all of you who have signed up for the FLICKR Group. I think it is fun to see what people are working on and what fabrics they pick.

As I mentioned when I started Floradoodle, there will also be a smaller 12 block version you can do if you want to skip the center medallion. I’m doing this one in pinks and greens on a brown background. You can see my Block 1 above. I’m thinking that this one will have different sashing and an appliqué border. I’ll keep you posted. I’m using one of the Bella solids for this because I just couldn’t resist the name…It’s called Hershey, like the chocolate. I found it at Fat Quarter Shop.

Here are a few random notes on the starch and press method of preparing your appliqué shapes.

Some fabrics will soak up the starch faster than others. You will get the best results if you don’t start ironing until the starch has soaked into the fabric. This is also a good reason to pre-wash your fabric since the sizing can inhibit the starch from soaking in as well.

Yes, I do actually use a standard size iron for this but I TURN THE STEAM DOWN. It’s a little scary to get your fingers close to an iron but I found if I’m careful I won’t get burnt. The only times I have gotten a little burnt are when the steam has been on.

Sometimes the Mylar or Templar can warp, especially if the shape is on the large size. I’ve found that they both warp so one isn’t better than the other. I just hold the edge down as I’m pressing. When I take the template out I press the entire shape flat. Another template material that works is several pieces of freezer paper ironed together. I have made templates this way and they can be re-used a few times but eventually the starch will soak in and you will have to make a new template.

Just for grins I’ve added this picture to show how I photograph and sew at the same time. My husband couldn’t figure out how I got my fingers in the picture.

Also, here is a shoutout to this guy

He is my HTML technical support person. He’s also my son and very inexpensive. He helped me with my new ETSY shop button that you can see on the left. This will be where the patterns I have for sale will go. I put the Miss Hannah pattern in there because people are asking about it but REMEMBER this pattern will be offered for FREE in December as part of the BOM. The next pattern will be this.

Happy Monday.

Comments

[Diane]

I'm working right through my January block and enjoying it very much. Thanks for all you generosity. Two questions: My stems didn't stay perfectly straight and I wondered if you had any advice. 2)I've ordered applique glue and wondered what your wash out procedure was like. Do you air dry or iron dry? Do you give a final starch? Why not just sequin pin?

[Lynn in NC]

I love your camera set up - how cool! Will post my planned fabrics today...haven't started block 1 - maybe tonight after I finish borders on a baby quilt. I'm excited about getting started! :)

[Carol]

Cool set up of the camera but how do you push the button with both hands on the fabric???? Curious minds want to know, lol.

[Linda]

I love all your work. You are very talented. I ordered 2 of your patterns yesterday from Etsy and was wondering where I can get the third one (with the birds).Please let me know.
Thanks
Linda