I am finally out of my slump. And starting out with a true quilters addiction, I went from nothing planned to 4 projects currently in the works. First is Jeremy's teacher's Crayola quilt. I bought the fabric months ago, but couldn't bring myself to starting anything. So, when I decided I really needed to get it started, I couldn't find the fabric. After buying some more, I have it ready to deliver to the kids to color. I was dreading that first cut, but when I did it, I realized I wouldn't be able to get enough. I was in the mood. I cut up and ironed on all of the freezer paper and ended up with extra blocks. So, I decided to make two Crayola quilts. One for each of the two oldest boys' quilts. For Joshua's kindergarden teacher, I am just going to get the kids to sign the blocks. Some of them don't have the fine motor skills to draw a picture. Jeremy's class is going to each draw a picture of themself and sign a block.

I was really wanting to sew this weekend, so I drug out the fabric I bought for my MIL's quilt. I cut it up and got it ready to put together and then realized my sewing machine is broken. Apparently the kids knocked it off the table and broke off a piece. Nothing was open today, so tomorrow we are going to try and find the part. I would love a new sewing machine, but can't swing it right now. It is going to be another attic window quilt.

Since I couldn't sew anything, I settle on a design for Jarrett's quilt finally and drew it up. It will be a variation of the snowball patern that I have done before with a bunch of different colors. I got all of the fabric washed tonight. What do you guys think of a finished size of 81 by 63 inches?

So, there you have it. Jumping in with both feet and no working sewing machine. But, happy as a clam. I need to try some new patterns so I was thinking about trying a log cabin next. I have a lot of purple based fabric that I don't know what I will do with.

Oh, I had one question. I bought 100% cotton muslin for the Crayola quilts. But, I have been double checking the how to's and many of them say not to use 100% cotton. Is there a reason? Do I need to be worried?

Michelle-happy to be back in the swing again

Hi, Michelle! It sounds like the bug has really bitten you this time around. I haven't heard to not use cotton for crayon blocks. I'd be curious to know if anyone else has a good reason for it, otherwise I wouldn't worry about it.

Your log cabin quilt sounds interesting, but then that's my very favorite pattern. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Hi Michelle! Wondered where you've been. I know when I did the crayon quilts last year, they asked for either high count Muslin or Kona Cotton, specifically...which I think both are 100% cotton. It would be interesting to know why they said not to use 100% cotton.

Make sure you show pictures of all your finished quilts, once you get the part for your sewing machine. Sometimes I catch my son over by my sewing machine...but so far he is just getting into the thread and pulling it all off the spool or bobbin...<sigh>!

I forgot to ask one other question. I went looking for denim needles (don't they make special ones) and couldn't find any. But, I bought a variety pack or two. Which should I use? I am also working on a flannel/denim rag quilt.

Michelle

Michelle, I think they do have denim needles. It seems like Tammy suggested that I buy that needle. I didn't and it turned out ok. I just used a Universal needle.

It looks like I am going to have to resew that BDU rag quilt that I made for DH again. It was so hard on my sewing machine. I am hoping that using the right sized needle will make it easier. The poor thing knocks really bad. And, the bobbin messes up really bad. We really like the quilt or I would have given up on it by now. I also want to finally start sewing the other one that is half denim and half flannel from the clothes I bought at the thrift sort when I was really into rag quilts. I think I have it all cut so the worst part is done.

Michelle

ugh!! Good luck on re-sewing! Did you ever post a picture of the BDU quilt?

I never took a picture of it. If I ever get the junk cleared out of my bed room (the "baby is almost 2 and I still have the newborn stuff set up) then I will snap a shot or two. It really isn't much to look at.

Michelle

That's just your opinion...I still like to see my friend's finished work. I mean, gosh, most of my quilts are nothing fancy, but I figure, I worked hard on them, I can still show them off!

I'd love to see a photo too! They do make denim needles...and JoAnn's usually carries the Schmetz and Singer brands. You might ask someone...I think needles are a pain to find because if someone puts a package back on the wrong hook it looks like the whole rack is the wrong size. Good luck sewing your BDU quilt!!

Tammy

Hey guys using the right needle can make such a difference in sewing esp. denim or other specialty fabrics. and your right they can be all over. If you can't find them ASK. It can make a big help big time especially with denim. Also if you are going over a seam, stop and lift you foot before going over it, it may help. THat denim can be maddening. We want to see a picture. JEan

I was at JoAnns the other day and asked them to help me find a jeans needle. They sold me a heavy duty fabric needle. I came home and compaired and it was the same as what I have been using. I read on the back of the package that it was not what I wanted. So, the search goes on. I think we will use it until it really has holes showing and then I will attack it again. The way it is now, I am the only one that knows where it is coming undone at.

I took pictures of the flannel/jean quilt I just finished and will get the film developed someday. A digital camera is another thing on my wish list.

Michelle