Penny's Hands

Pot Holders - Test Post Using BlogBooster

2011-11-10T15:58:00.001+08:00

I made this red pot holder

And this blue potholder for a bloggy friend to sell at a local Craft Market.

This post is written using the BlogBooster app. This app has the add photo, video and link option. You can choose the font , size and colour as well as the alignment. That's a boost!

Test Post Using Blogspace on Ipad

2011-11-01T22:06:00.001+08:00

My DH gave me his 'old' Ipad because he got himself the new Ipad2. I must admit, I have been spending a fair good time on this idevice, especially on the Flipboard app...will write about that next time.

Anyways, I figured that with this mobile device, it would be great to be able to blog on the go! ( I'm writing this while watching a movie) So, I started searching for apps. Will be testing out various apps that will give the most features like adding photos and links.

This app allows me to add photos and videos. But I cannot find the add link option. Hmmmm...that's what you get from free apps :)

By the way, if you go to my Pinterest (on the sidebar) you will find the link for the above pic. It's a DIY bias tape maker. Go check it out! It's on the How-To board.

I Am Back!

2011-10-26T14:40:00.001+08:00

I have been out of action for far too long. My mojo have been playing hide-and-seek with me! But one thing is for sure... I continued with my daily ritual...morning cuppa with my faithful Reader. Sorry for not commenting much but rest assured I came, I read and I did the 'ooh' and 'ahh' ! I did a little sewing. Will write more later.

Under Construction......

2011-09-04T19:03:00.001+08:00

I'm trying something new...so there'll be a little....ok .....a lot of mess going on here. Please bear with me. Hopefully I'll have a great makeover for my little space here in Blogville !

Kaleidoscope

2011-07-28T08:00:00.002+08:00

When I saw the Kaleidoscope Quilt-Along I really wanted to run~along and join Elizabeth . I downloaded the templates ….and then I got scared..all those pointy points…I’m no good at matching the points. Then I thought, hey, I can EPP the kaleidoscope! EPP is very forgiving….with a little nudge, you can make the points meet!

So, I headed off to my favourite free Graph Paper Generator to get my isoceles triangles and squares.

At this page, choose these settings to get the squares paper pieces.

At this page, choose these settings to get octagons. I used an octagon to get eight kaleidoscope triangles.

You will get two octagons.Join the points to get eight isoceles triangles with a 2” base. ( Yeah, after a few attempts, I figured out the right measurements.)

Make as many paper pieces as you like.I didn’t make too many because I removed and reused the paper pieces as I went along.

Because I didn’t stitch through the paper, I had one step less when I removed the paper. I just leave the basting stitches on. I find that it holds the seams in place and not open out.

Can I call this Kaleidoscope Tessellation ?

Here, I quilted triangle shapes in the octagon….

and here, I quilted the octagon shape.

I did the backing using my cool method.

My Kaleidoscope Tessellation Table Runner .

Yes, I have made many many table runners! My daughter advises me to start giving some away!

More of Jack’s Chain

2011-07-26T17:01:00.001+08:00

I seem to have misplaced my mojo somewhere amongst my WIPs and UFOs and fabric stash and scraps. All I did since my last post was hand stitching more Jack’s Chain.

I made another table runner, this time in blue….

and a red table topper. If you have not seen my earlier Jack’s Chain, please do. I have this cool method to finish the curves

When I saw Vreni’s tessellations blocks using EPP, it dawned on me that Jack’s Chain is a tessellation block too.

“A tessellation is created when a shape is repeated over and over again covering a plane without any gaps or overlaps.”

Come back soon. I have a kaleidoscope tessellation to show you !

Bowl Covers for Leftovers

2011-06-09T19:05:00.001+08:00

I’m used to cooking for four. So after my son left home for Clayton to continue his studies, I continued cooking for four! That means only one thing…leftovers!

In my continuing effort to save Mother Earth from shrink wraps, I made this. I got the inspiration from here. Thanks Lindsay. But I tweaked the pattern a little. I did not bind the edge the usual way.

Instead, I fold the bias tape into half and stitch it along the circumference of the fabric circle. Half way thru the circle, I leave a one inch gap for threading the elastic.

Using a bodkin , I inserted the elastic through the casing.

Join the two ends of the elastic by machine. Stitch close the opening and using a zig-zag stitch, I stitched around the edges to prevent fraying.

It looks exactly like a shower cap!

The best part is, it is washable and reusable!

I Love Jack !

2011-06-06T15:46:00.001+08:00

I’ve started chaining the Jack’s Chain blocks …..and I’m loving it! I’m making a table topper/runner. Then it dawned on me….it’s going to be a nightmare to finish it with bias binding the curves! But I want to keep the curves…so I came up with this method. If you have done needleturn applique and love hand stitching, this will work for you too .

First I lay the finished top on the batting, baste with long running stitches along the edges to hold them together. Then trim the batting 1/8 of an inch inside the curves.(That means the batting piece is smaller the the top piece.) Next, I lay the finished Jack’s Chain top on the backing fabric, right sides together. Pin in place. Trim the backing fabric with a 1/2 inch allowance.

Then, using whip stitch, stitch the two layers together as you would applique.

This how it looks like on the back. Leave an opening to turn it right side out. Remember to trim and cut notches where necessary. Turn the whole piece right sides out and slip stitch the opening close.

Top stitch all around the curves and quilt . I wanted to finish fast, so I just stitch around each hexagon….not that I am any good at any other quilting designs except straight line quilting!

After a good press at the ironing board, it’s now sitting pretty on my coffee table .

And I am starting on the next one. This time it’s blue!

……did I mention to remove the paper pieces …

Jack’s Chain

2011-06-02T13:21:00.001+08:00

I’m working on a new block…and it has to do with a HEXIE!

Jack’s Chain. Stumbled upon this block here. You can also find it here.

Of course I have to do it the EPP( English Paper Piecing) way. This method of tacking the corners only is much faster….and the paper pieces lasts longer too. I don’t remove the basting stitches…it cannot be seen anyway.

Now, I’m off to make more blocks and start chaining them!

May I Pinterest You?

2011-05-22T22:38:00.001+08:00

I’ve been quite unproductive of late….not blogging much, not sewing much, not doing much of anything except for lots of blog hopping and ….board hopping . pinboard, that is.

Recently, while blog hopping, I came across a blog with this button.

It took me to Pinterest!

Pinterest is a pinboard…a big virtual pinboard where you create collections of things…anything you can find in the world wide web. It’s like a big community where we collect and share all sorts of things.

I like to share tutorials and patterns that I have and those that I find while blog hopping. But sometimes it can take time to write up a post. With Pinterest, all I need is to click a special button called the Pinterest bookmarklet ,choose an image from the site and add it to my pinboard. That’s it! Pinterest will automatically grab the source link to give credit to the original creator. You can also browse through other pinboards, search by keywords and repin what you like! And while doing that, I found more blogs to follow!!! No wonder I didn’t have time for blogging and sewing!

I have created a few pinboards….mostly sewing stuffs….mostly tutorials with free patterns ….my to~do~list. It’s quick, it’s easy and it won’t get lost in my many folders of to-do-lists in my computer!!!

To see my pinboard, just click . You can find this button on my sidebar, just below my followers.

If you like to have your own pinboards, Pinterest is by invitation only, so hurry to get an invite!

Homespun Stitch-a-Long

2011-05-18T13:43:00.001+08:00

I love hand stitching. It’s very calming….ahhhhh.

A Faithful Friend….ahhhhhhhh.

Block one (the verse in the centre) can be found in the No 95 Vol 12.4 issue of Homespun Magazine. And Lenna Green is offering

19 more stitcheries to make up an inspirational quilt . .. all for FREE !

Block 3 and 4 are ready to be downloaded!

Thanks Leena !

Pennies for Rylee by Cyndi

2011-05-09T13:21:00.001+08:00

(photo courtesy of Cyndi of Stitch Stitch Stitch )

I fell in love with this baby quilt when I saw it at Stitch Stitch Stitch . And stitch, stitch stitch I did! It’s an old fashion baby quilt with so many penny squares stitcheries to choose from! And I’m choosing all!

I’m stitching them in two colours!

Pink and Blue!

Yes, I’m planning to make two quilts!

Wish me luck !

KoolBeenz …..StitchinStash

2011-05-05T15:15:00.001+08:00

Last month, I took part in a giveaway by April @ KoolBeenz…..and I won!

Stitchin Stash was April’s giveaway sponsor.

Isn’t that a cute name card?

“Your obsession is our specialty….”

My prize bundle came today ~Michael Miller Fabric - Lazy Daisy Fat Quarter Bundle. Totally in love with it! Thanks Julie of Stitchin Stash.

And thank you April !

By the way, April has a cool shoppe !

And she’s hosting another giveaway!!!

Cotton Blossom Farm is sponsoring a 10 pc Half Yd Bundle!

Three Birdies

2011-05-04T14:06:00.001+08:00

Enough with knitting. I’ve been pretty quiet….but I’m still around…lurking, hopping, commenting and nosing around blogland. I’ve also been quietly stitching away…especially during the long wedding I had to attend; a real fairytale wedding like no other that I have read before!

This is what I have been stitching. Aren’t those birdies cute? It’s supposed to be wool applique…but I had to do it my way .

It’s a spectacles case from Wee Folk Art.

Washed…Blocked…Done!

2011-04-15T13:33:00.001+08:00

One day short of a week, hours watching movies, I’ve finished knitting, washing and blocking the Feather n Fan scarf !

Really love the effect of the increase and decrease of stitches creating the lacy waves. It is a very easy pattern to memorize….no looking at the chart or pattern ,no stitch markers nor row counters!

Ready to be wrapped. It’s a gift for a friend.

Feather n Fan and Ravelry

2011-04-09T13:41:00.001+08:00

This is a four row pattern. Very easy. Loving the lacy look of it! Got the pattern via Ravelry.

Back to my knitting !

I Got Bitten by the Knitting Bug !

2011-04-05T11:46:00.001+08:00

When I knit, I like to pull the end of the ball from the center as it keeps the ball neater.

Have you ever had problem getting the end out? I tried both sides but it just won’t budge! This ball of yarn is very compact… I had a hard time even to put in my fingers!

In the end , I just rip out the paper and start knitting .

I combined some stitches from different projects and came up with this. Not done with it yet. I think I will add some lacy edging. What do you think?

I love this yarn. Lives up to its name…Smoothie.

For beginner knitters, I recommend textured yarn. It’s all garter stitch here. Good practice for your knit stitch!

I love this. The yarn is so smooth and silky. It’s Razzle Textures.

Looks like seaweed, eh? It’s actually a darker shade than in this photo.

Psst , if you like my pink scarf, I’ll e-mail you the pattern.

Hexie Caddy Parade

2011-03-28T14:21:00.002+08:00

This is OUR Hexie Caddy Parade.

Look at all the gorgeous creations made using my tutorial!

*NEW

I’ve added your Hexie Caddy Pincushions to my pinboard at

To join our Parade, please leave me a comment or mail me with your….

*URL: (Link to your blog POST)

*Name: (Name to appear below pic)

Marion of Germany(no blog) sent me a pic of her Hexie Caddy Pincushion. Thanks Marion.

Have you seen…

2011-03-28T10:46:00.001+08:00

my bags c0llection? I’ve added a page on my right sidebar.

I’m ready to make more bags!

Fabric Shopping Bag Part 2

2011-03-24T08:00:00.000+08:00

Let’s gather the pieces and head to the sewing machine !


1. Take one main fabric and one lining fabric right sides together. Sew the center "U" and two curve sides.	2. When stitching the side curve, stop and secure 1 1/2” from the top.

3. Repeat steps 1-2 for the second main fabric. Turn inside out and press. You now have two pieces.	4. With right sides together, pin the main fabric making sure it matches at the seams.

5. While keeping the lining away, start sewing across the main fabric. Keep sewing until the end of the lining fabric . Be patient…needs a little maneuvering :)	6. Pull the handle to straighten the fabric. You will get this ! The handle neatly lined with an opening at the side. If you intend to top stitch, leave the opening for now. Or slip stitch to close the opening. Press.

7.With right sides together, place the main pieces together and lining pieces together matching at the side curve. Sew the two side seams.	8. Turn out the bag. Top stitch the center ‘U’ and side curve to close the opening.Match the side seams and press.

9. Fold the handle into half and ‘stitch in the ditch’ across the top of the handle. Do the same for the other handle.	10. To make the gusset, fold the sides with the seams inside. Making sure it’s parallel with the handles.

11. Pin and sew across the bottom.	12. Turn inside out and sew across the bottom again, encasing the seam allowance.

13. Follow the steps above to fold the bag.(Click pic for larger view.)	14. Make a strap long enough to wrap the folded bag. Note the placement of Velcro and yo-yo flower.

15. Stitch the strap in center of the ‘U’.	16. Now you can secure the folded bag with a strap! Isn’t that a cute little parcel?

Here’s the front…

…and here’s the back with a cute yo-yo flower!

My daughter loves the bag!

It’s for her

If you missed Part I, go here.

Fabric Shopping Bag Part I

2011-03-23T08:46:00.000+08:00

I made this bag way back in 2009. It’s a shopping bag a.k.a. Green Bag. What I liked about this bag is it’s fast to make. And I used a regular plastic bag as the pattern! I got the inspiration here.

Wanna make one too? Here we go !

1	2
3	4

1. Choose a regular plastic bag that is just the right size for you. Lay the plastic bag flat.

2. Cut the top of the handle and the bottom of the bag just at the seams.

3. Open out the gusset at the sides .

4. Fold the bag into half. Your bag pattern is ready !

1	2
3	4

1. Select your favourite design for the front of the bag . Of course I used Daisy’s owl applique. I added strips around until I’ve got it big enough.

2. Fold the fabric into half and place the pattern on the fold.

3. Cut following the pattern as a guide. Trim where necessary.

4 Cut two main fabric ( I’m using a different fabric for the other side of the bag) and two lining fabric.

Come back tomorrow for Part II !

The Owl Design Belongs To….

2011-03-22T08:11:00.001+08:00

Daisy Valentine @ triciarennea.blogspot.com .

Phew ! I Googled and searched and managed to find where this owl flew from.

And as it turned out, it was a coloring page !

Daisy has lots of coloring pages to share. Thanks Daisy !

Hoot does this belong to ?

2011-03-21T17:14:00.001+08:00

My daughter has a thing for owls. So I decided to make this cutie

The problem now is, I cannot remember who and which blog I got this pattern from. Can someone help me?

Update: Find the answer here

Faire la Bise

2011-03-18T17:18:00.001+08:00

I took days to decide what to do my my Faire la Bise block. I wanted something fast and practical.

I quilted around the hearts….

…added some strips and quilted both sides with this lovely stitch …..

…added broader strips and quilted straight lines….

..and I made another table runner!!!

Very soon, all the tables and counter tops in my house will be covered !

Disappearing ‘Flowers’ Placemats

2011-03-10T17:14:00.001+08:00

Finally completed the matching placemats for my Disappearing ‘Flowers’ Table Runner. This time the nine patch is looking more ‘disappearing’. I placed the dark fabric where I’d be cutting into, so it ended up with smaller squares, hence the dark fabric is less overbearing. Looks much better .

Remember I won this ?

Well, I made this!

It’s block #116 Faire la Bise by Helen Stubbings of Hugs ‘N Kisses.

There are so many more gorgeous block to make! I’m just into applique right now!

Applique and stitchery… I love it!

How to Sharpen Your Rotary Cutter Blade

2011-03-05T21:54:00.001+08:00

These are my faithful rotary cutters… the 28mm and 45mm. Sadly, they are as blunt as a hammer !

Everyone has this in their kitchen, right? And what has the aluminium foil to do with sharpening rotary cutter blade, you ask ?

Well, you simply fold a piece of foil a few times and just slice away with your blunt dull rotary cutter…pausing a few times to test it out on your fabric scraps …till it starts slicing away your fabric too!

You will end up with this and an almost new rotary cutter!

Oh yeah!!!

I found this little trick while hopping and surfing in blogland .

The only catch is how long the blade will keep sharp. Still, it beats throwing it into the trash.

I read that it works too for sharpening scissors.

Disclaimer : I will not be held responsible for any mishap or misfortune in the process of sharpening your rotary cutter blade. Please take caution.

P.S. Let me know if it works for you too

Snow Hearts

2011-03-02T16:26:00.002+08:00

If you have been checking out my BOMs list,

Claudia just released the third Snow Hearts…

and I all of them!

January

February

March

I’m making a table runner…again…and matching placemats, of course .

And yes, I’m still doing the disappearing nine patch .

The previous blocks are still there if you want to catch them!

Thanks Claudia !

Disappearing “Flowers’ Table Runner

2011-02-24T17:48:00.001+08:00

I’ve been wanting to try the disappearing nine patch and I’ve got Quiltecke’s ‘Flowers’ stitcheries that I was planning to use for a table runner and placemats. So…..

.. I came up with this!

It’s a table runner alright but the nine patch doesn’t look too disappearing . Where did I go wrong? Is it the fabric choice? I used five different fabrics. How many should it be?

As usual, I did straight line quilting. Thought I try some random lines and boxes as I stitch along. I think I like it!

I used only four of the ‘Flowers’ stitcheries. Saving the rest for the placemats.

Tomorrow seem like a good day for making placemats!

Happy Stitching !

I’m doing good time…

2011-02-18T19:35:00.002+08:00

Flowers of Love by Fee

Block 5

Block 6

Block 7

Give Thanks by Jenny of Elefantz

Verse 1

Verse 2

Verse 3

Things We Love by Gumtree Designers

Block 1

Birdie Stitches by LittleMissShabby

Block 1

Block 2

Retro Nine Patch by Lyn

Block 1

There are many more BOMs for this year but I think I should not be too ambitious ! But I will still add them to my collection of To~do~list.

Check them out on the right sidebar of my blog under the title

‘What's Keeping Me Busy’

Keep Busy!

Flowers by Quiltecke

2011-02-15T18:58:00.002+08:00

Way back in May last year, I started stitching a BOM by Quiltecke … Flowers . You can see them here and here. I finally finished them.

Block 4

Block 5

Block 6

Block 8

Block 9

Diana just released a new BOM

You can also see all the BOMs for this year in my pages on the right sidebar of my blog. Do you see it there?…. it’s under the title What's Keeping Me Busy . Do you also see why I am so busy?! There are so many new BOMs this year!!! ….That’s what I get when I blog hoppity hop every morning

I’m Stitching ….

2011-02-14T10:39:00.002+08:00

as fast as I can!

Block 1

Block 2

Block 3

Block 4

Blocks 5 and 6 are on the way!

These are the lovely BOM by Fee. It’s still running and you better start running there too.

Just the perfect Stitch~and~Tell because it’s full of HEARTS !

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

Happy Lunar New Year !

2011-02-07T15:37:00.001+08:00

It’s the year of the Rabbit…my year !

( Darn, I just told you my age….or not !)

Wishing everyone a Happy, Healthy and Stitchy year ahead!

My First Mug Rug!

2011-01-30T23:15:00.001+08:00

I’m officially in the mug rug craze!

Did you know there are heaps of free patterns at FatCat Patterns ?

This is a from the Ethnic Flavored Designs page. I’ve had this in my Applique folder of my Google Bookmark for too long a time…I really do have a long list of To~Do’s !

Used blanket stich for the applique. Have I mentioned before that I love to hand stitch? Did this while watching re-runs of ER :)

Quilted simple straight lines. Wanted to try stippling but I have not practiced enough yet .. and I didn’t want to spoil my first mug rug!

…And Another One !

2011-01-28T13:36:00.001+08:00

I had to make another one. It’s too cute!

This time, I got it right. The print fabric is on top!

If you are looking for the tutorial, look here.

Thanks again May Britt of Abyquilt !

This is addictive!

Pincushion from Abyquilt

2011-01-27T17:12:00.001+08:00

I have saved this tutorial from May Britt of Abyquilt in my Google Bookmark for so long now. Finally stitched it up! Thanks May Britt for your awesome tutorial .

It’s all handstitched and pieced the English Paper Piecing method. Love it!

Goofed up a little though..you see, I planned that pink floral fabric to be the top of the pincushion, but somehow it ended at the bottom!

Thought I use a nice button to make up for the plain top!

By the way, the squares I used was 1 inch!

Daisy~ Do Hanging Pocket

2011-01-15T22:01:00.001+08:00

I know, I am slow..and late in stitching Jenny’s Daisies. But I managed to stitch three blocks and made them into a hanging pocket for the rulers I bought when I was in Melbourne.

That’s Benjoe, my sweetheart , checking it out!

The bottom pocket holds the 6” x 6”, the centre pocket holds the 6” x 12” and the top pocket holds the 6” x 24” rulers. I didn’t have a pattern. Just worked it out as I went along.

My Daisy~Do Hanging Pocket hanging proudly in my sewing corner.

Thanks Jenny for the lovely design.

I joined the tour and came home with ……

2011-01-15T21:20:00.001+08:00

When Quilty Pleasures started its 100 Blocks Blog Tour last year, I hopped along . Oh my, it was a fantastic tour! I hopped till I was dizzy…from all the lovely blocks to the blogs. I found many great inspirations . And of course I had to enter most of the giveaways too :)

…and I won this! ………..

…and this!!!

Thanks Linda !

Rain, Rain Go Away

2011-01-11T12:16:00.001+08:00

When I was in Melbourne last year, I was told that the trees and grass is the greenest ever in a long long time because of all the rain it was getting. “Good for the trees and the flowers.” I said.

Not so good…last spring,the La Nina weather phenomenon gave the northeastern state of Queensland its wettest spring ever. Torrential rains, flooding and Tropical Cyclone Tasha devastated Queensland, town by town.

Yesterday, Brisbane’s Lord Mayor, Campbell Newman warned residents who live along the Brisbane River and the creeks that they face the potential for "significant flooding" from Wednesday.

My prayers go out the the people of Brisbane.

Here’s where we can help.

The Gum Tree Designers is making an appeal for a 'New Beginnings' sewing kit .

Fee will be donating a Fat Quarter Bundle.

Jenny is auctioning two of her Shabby Roses quilts.

Joy is offering a kit from her “Teatime Tabletopper” pattern.

Toni over at Make it Perfect is organising a Flood Appeal Auction on Monday 17th January for 1 week. All proceeds will go to help the flood victims .

Rita of Red Pepper Quilts is donating a quilt .

Lizzie is going to auction 'Geisha in the Moonlight'

Will be adding the list of donors as I stumble upon them :)

I’m back!!!…..

2011-01-05T13:08:00.001+08:00

…..from a three week holiday in Melbourne and Singapore with my family! Had an awesome time in Melbourne. Love the cool weather even though it is summer. But when the sun did come out, I almost melted!

Was on the move going places almost everyday…sightseeing, shopping and eating!

The Great Ocean Road was great. DH pampered us with a helicopter ride to have an aerial view the Apostles…..AMAZING!

Dandenong Hills was beautiful, the wee teeny penguins at Phillips Island seem smaller than the ones I saw 15 years ago! It rained at Ballarat but we enjoyed Sovereign Hill.

By the time I got to Singapore, I was real tired. But my kids and I still managed the Singapore Flyer..it was scary..not the ride but by what I saw..360* of skyscrapers! Gives a new meaning to ‘Concrete Jungle’! Saw the Esplanade..Singapore’s version of the Sydney Opera House. Spent a day at Universal Studios Singapore. Orchard Road was at it’s best..still with the Christmas lightings!

I’m still drowned with the loads of laundry,ironing and keeping stuffs back in place. At the same time, I’m catching up on my Google reader..I’ve more than 1000+ unread items! But I managed to spot some new BOMs for 2011. There’re at the right sidebar of my blog.

I hope to be back on my sewing machine soon to start on my Penny’s Hobo tutorial. Sorry for the delay.

Oh yes, I came home to a parcel from Linda Lum DeBono. Will tell more soon .

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-25T00:01:00.000+08:00

Hoppity Hop….Bingo!!!

2010-11-28T21:44:00.000+08:00

I love to blog hop. That’s mornings with my cuppa and Blogland. Besides getting loads of inspirations, tutorials and freebies, sometimes I end up taking part in giveaways .

Lately, I seem to be on a winning streak!

In early October, I won a Beaded Wool Gems Kits from Kelly Jackson. Within a week, I received the Kit!

Thanks Kelly and Rose !

In early November, I hopped into Shawna’s lovely blog and hopped away with this yummylicious Layer Cake!

Thanks Shawna.

Remember when I wrote about Barbara Gaddy and her family? Did you hurry along to get to know this lovely family! I did and see what I won!

Jeanette gave me not one but two patterns! A block of the month pattern collection from Thimbleberries called "Build a Village Block by Block" and ‘Pot and Pots of Flowers’ .

Love and love them!

Thanks Jeanette!

Quilting Tutorials @ Cluck Cluck Sew

2010-11-14T19:03:00.001+08:00

Allison of

is collecting quilting and quilt pattern tutorials from all over blogland! If you have a tutorial or pattern to share ….

click the image above and add your link!

Thanks Allison !!!

Want this?

2010-11-13T20:35:00.001+08:00

Then you need to ask Corrie! She is having a giveaway!!!

Gifted and Generous

2010-11-12T08:49:00.001+08:00

I am talking about Barb’s family. Barbara Gaddy of BEJEWELED QUILTS BY BARB is having giveaways..two of them!

First is the 4 Sisters and A Mom Giveaway!!!!!! You really have to read about this gifted family. Jeanette, Margaret, Beverly and Barb make beautiful quilts!

Second is Barb’s Veterans Day Giveaway. Now hurry along to get to know this lovely family!

You Can Linky to Flickr

2010-11-11T11:22:00.001+08:00

I was experimenting with Linky. I found out that you can add a link to your Flickr photo.

I will show you how I added my Hexie Caddy photo from Flick to my Hexie Caddy parade in my blog.

1. First, choose the photo .

2. See the address I circled at the address bar? Right click to ‘Copy’.

3. Go to the bottom of the Hexie Caddy Tutorial post.

4. Click on the “Click here to enter’.

5. Right click in the ‘Link it to’ box, and paste the address you copied in step #2.

6. Add your caption or title.

7. Click on ‘ From Web’.

8. Select your image, crop , click ‘Ok’ and you should be able to see your thumbnail in my Hexie Caddy Parade !

So if you do not have a blog, but you have Flickr and have made a Hexie Caddy Pincushion, join in the Parade!

Quilt As You Go Log Cabin

2010-11-07T15:45:00.002+08:00

I’ve been blog-hopping in search for a pattern for the quilt I am planning to make for my DH. Then it dawned on me…how am I going to machine quilt such a big quilt on my home sewing machine?

I remember reading about this Quilt As You Go method. Off I go again to ‘research’ from fellow bloggers…isn’t Blogville such a wonderful place? Bloggers are the most giving, sharing and generous people on earth!

Did you know that there are so many methods to this Quilt As You Go method?! Anyway, I finally chose this Quilt As You Go tutorial by Julia @ Julia’s Place.
Her pictorial tutorial is crystal clear. Thanks Julia.

I made this ‘prototype’ yesterday. It was quick to stitch. What’s taking most of my time is cutting the strips. Can someone give me an AccuQuilt GO! ?

Great as a table runner or placemat too.

My Hexie Caddy Made it Again!

2010-11-06T16:16:00.001+08:00

Hop over to Sew, Mama, Sew! for tons of tutorials and inspirations.

Thanks Irene and Kristin for choosing my tutorial.

Will I ever get a chance???…

2010-11-06T13:34:00.001+08:00

…..to win one of this?

Not if I blog about it and reduce my chances even more !!!

But if any of my readers wins one because I ‘told you about it’, then I’ll be happy too!

Carolyn @Accuquilt has given Linda @ Lavender Ridge a GO! to give away!

Now, get GOing and enter away!

Easily Charmed Graceful Gifts Quilted Table Topper

2010-11-03T11:28:00.001+08:00

Quite a mouthful!

Waaay back in July, I won a giveaway from Khris (Sew Prim Khris) . I got this quilt pattern called SEW EASILY CHARMED.

Then at about the same time, I started stitching GIFTS OF GRACE by Val Laird.

And because I always like to have my hands in many projects at the same time,

( that sure explain my many UFOs!)

Sew, I Easily Charmed the Graceful blocks of Gifts to make this….

Easily Charmed Graceful Gifts Quilted Table Topper!!!

These are my favourite blocks.

Another down …and many more to go !!!

Edit : The Gifts of Grace BOM will be available only till December 2010. So hurry over to get all the BOMs !

I Need Help….

2010-11-02T23:06:00.001+08:00

to decide on a pattern for a quilt I’m planning to make for my DH. I have not finished hand stitching the binding of the table topper I’m making with my Gifts of Grace block. But I’m deciding on the pattern for my next project. The problem is, there are so many inspirations out there in Blogland! ….and I want to make ALL OF THEM !!!

Decisions…decisions…decisions….

Gifts of Grace Blocks 7,8 and 9

2010-11-02T12:17:00.001+08:00

Finally, I finished stitching all the block from Gifts of Grace by Val Laird.

I have stitched them into blocks to make another table topper.

My daughter’s reaction was “ why do you need so many!!!”

Well, I cannot have enough of them!

Almost finished the binding….hand stitching takes time

Frosty Flakes…Done!…Really!!!

2010-10-22T09:54:00.002+08:00

Yes, it’s really done this time. Quilted…with just straight lines…and binded.

If you look closer, it’s a bit wonky. I tried my very best. Does that ever happen to you?

This is Block Eight…

… and Block Nine .

Blocks One to Seven are here.

Link Your Hexie Caddy

2010-10-21T10:45:00.002+08:00

Just a quick post today.

I’ve added McLinky at the bottom of my Hexie Caddy Tutorial page.

I would love for everyone who makes this Hexie Caddy to link up and show us you creation!

Just click on my Hexie Caddy on the right sidebar to take you there.

To those whom I have featured, I’ve added your creations !!

Link Away!

Frosty Flakes…Done!!!

2010-10-19T12:28:00.002+08:00

Well, just the quilt top anyway :)

I just had to show it off first.

Dawn has only nine Frosty Flakes but I wanted to do a rectangle table topper. So I stitched the first BOW twice.

LOVE IT!!!

Thanks Dawn !

Find me at these parties !

You Sew, I Tell

2010-10-17T17:15:00.001+08:00

It keeps popping up in Blogville.

I’m talking about my Hexie Caddy Pincushion!

Click on the picture to read more!

by Doris of SUMMERTIME

by Jan of Isisjem - The Creative Life and Times

by Diah of ADR'S Treasures

by Gaby of Lotuspointdecroix

Great job, ladies !

English Paper Piecing Dresden Plate

2010-10-14T23:53:00.002+08:00

I was looking through some photos in a kiv folder and realised that I haven’t blogged about this!

Way back in June, I showed how I made paper templates to make the Dresden Plate using English Paper Piecing. Later I made many plates and with some stitcheries, I made Happy Scrappy Little Bird table runner. But I did not show how I pieced the wedges !

So, here goes :)

These are the wedges that you will get if you have followed my tutorial.

Cut off the tips of the points.

Cut your fabric with enough seam allowance all around except the narrow end.

Next, baste the paper wedges to the fabric.

Using whip stitch, join the wedges……

…until you get a complete Dresden Plate!

Super easy method..just perfect for hand stitching.

Don’t you just love the Little Bird ?

I’m In The Top~10!!!

2010-10-12T16:08:00.003+08:00

Remember I entered my Penny’s Hobo Bag for this contest?

Well, I made it to the top~10!!!

Penny’s Hobo

Oh yeah!!!

Now, there are ten awesome bags that needs your help.

Please go over to Christie’s to vote your favourite bag.

Voting poll is on the right in the sidebar of A Lemon Squeezy Home.

You need to scroll down a little.

Now, hurry!!! Voting ends Friday, October 15th, at 11:59 AM.

Good luck to the top 10 finalist!

Wish me luck again!!!

I didn't make the top three. But hey, being in the top ten is beyond my wildest dreams! Thanks to the judges for putting me there :) Congrats to the winners!!

Hexie Caddy Parade n More

2010-10-06T16:47:00.001+08:00

Did you know that you can know how many readers have seen a particular post you have written in your blog?

Well, you can. Just go to the dashboard, look under the Stats tab.

I cannot imagine that my Hexie Caddy Pincushion tutorial was viewed more than 7000 times!!!

I know that’s no biggie for most of you, but it is for me !

What’s more amazing is blogging sewist have stitched up these !

Sabine: http://elfen-sabs.blogspot.com/2010/09/p.html

Birgit:http://ringleinsnaeheckchen.blogspot.com/2010/09/mittwochsgenahe.html

Birgit told me she made it a little bit smaller .

Sabine : http://sabinesstuebchen.blogspot.com/2010/10/see-pin.html

Sabine added the perfect stitchery for the pincushion!

Moncsi : http://varrogato.blogspot.com/2010/10/hexagon-alapu-tarolo.html

You can use the caddy other than for sewing!

Sarah : http://sarahjovi.blogspot.com/2010/09/summer-is-over-but-i-did-make-some.html

Remember, if you make anything from my tutorials, please let me know. I love to parade them here !

Don’t forget to enter you bags for this challenge!

If you are looking for the bag I entered, lookie here.

Penny’s Hobo Bag

2010-10-03T18:15:00.002+08:00

Last week, on my morning blog hopping ritual, I stumbled upon….

!!!……… a good excuse to make another bag!!!

If you have been folowing my blog, I’ve been showing some sneak peeks here , here and here.

Vicki and Cyndi….you guessed right!

The hobo bag is a style of handbag or purse that is typically large and characterized by a crescent shape, a slouchy posture and a long strap designed to wear over the shoulder. Hobo bags are made out of soft, flexible materials and tend to slump, or slouch, when set down.~ Wikipedia

That's my inspiration when I set out to make this bag. It's made from curtain fabric without batting or interfacing. I stitched two small darts at the bottom of each side of the bag. I find that two small darts gives it a ‘smoother’ curve at the bag bottom :)
The bag is 16" at the widest point , 15” high up to the beads, with an 18" shoulder strap.

I used my Brown Hobo With O-rings bag pattern which I drafted using Wikipedia’s description! ~ crescent shape, a slouchy posture and a long strap.

To attach the shoulder straps, instead of O-rings, I made thin bias straps and thread them through wooden macrame beads.

When I saw this buckle at the local haberdashery, I knew it would be perfect for a bag! I made a simple flap to attach the buckle.

I used a print fabric as bag lining . It is very roomy with four large pockets. I made the pockets using Christie's 'Lunch Money Cuff' Tutorial. I did not use a zipper. Instead, I let the pocket lining show a little to give it the bias piping effect. I added a magnetic button for closure.

If you are a bagaholic, there’s still time to submit your bags. Any bags made after July 1st will be accepted. I had to make a new one because the last bag I made was in March!

Am linking to Linky Parties to spread the word :)

[ See Link Parties tab below blog title]

All entries will be shortlisted by a panel of judges before the final voting by readers.

Have a look at other beautiful creations at the Purse Week Flickr Group.

My Hobo Bag is here.

Wish me luck and may the best purse, bag, or

clutch win!!!

Thanks Christie

I made it to the top 10! Read about it and cast your vote for your favorite bag!

Thanks Heather and Megan!

Last Sneak Peek ….

2010-10-03T10:58:00.002+08:00

Come back soon for the big reveal!

What’s It Gonna Be?

2010-09-30T10:33:00.001+08:00

I’m working on something….

2010-09-28T20:09:00.001+08:00

Just a little sneaky peek……

Hexie Pieced Pot Holder

2010-09-26T17:35:00.000+08:00

I love to keep my hands busy all the time..especially when I am watching the telly.

This is Blue Wrens Nest by Cinderberry Stitches.

Do you see those hexagons?

I pieced the hexagons and appliqued the Blue Wren Nest . Then made it into a pot holder . Made a pair, actually. The one on the right is the reverse side.

My sister has been under the weather lately. So this is for her to cheer her up !

Stitchery Sew n Tell

2010-09-24T21:55:00.003+08:00

Here are some of the stitching that’s been keeping me busy.

More Hexie Caddy Pincushions

2010-09-21T08:26:00.002+08:00

I’m so happy to see more of my Hexie Caddy Pincushions appearing in Blogville!

Marjorie of Applique Addict.

I think Marjorie will be making a smaller one.

But Shannon of Pieceful Kwilter knew it was going to be big. So she used a 1.5” hexie instead of 2”. Yes, you can make it any size you like by changing the size of the hexagon.

Lastly, Barbara made this .

If you have made any Hexie Caddy Pincushion, please send me your pics or links . I love to ‘show-off’ all your beautiful creations!

Graciela of Hilitos de Colores made my Hexagon Tote-Along Pouch. She even made a tutorial on how she made the pouch…in Spanish!

Muchas Gracias Graciela!

Thank you ladies for sharing your creations with me.

Happy Stitching !!!

I’ve Got Mail..Snail Mail…

2010-09-17T20:50:00.002+08:00

…very slow mail ! It took two weeks to reach me. And when it finally did, it’s all worth the wait.

It’s the win I got from Joy.

Have you seen such loveliness?!

A Moda Charm Pack!!!

I think I’ll be feasting my eyes on these pretties before I want to think of what to make with them!

Thanks so much Joy!

Yummy Honeybun

2010-09-16T17:44:00.002+08:00

Honeybun anyone? According to Wikipedia : A honey bun is a version of the cinnamon bun that is popular in the southeast United States.

Well, I know where you can get that…the fabricky kind!

Lana of It seams To Be Sew is having a giveaway .

Can you smell it?!

(Psst..tell Lana I sent you .)

Catching Up…

2010-09-15T11:27:00.001+08:00

I’ve been so busy with …house chores, what else!

Saw this cute graphic during my ritual blog hopping mornings. Well, I don’t want my computer to be broken before my house can be clean !

I was also busy playing catch…catching up with my BOMs. But the fact that more generous bloggers are dishing out free BOMs are not helping much !

Fiona of Mothers Cupboard is offering "Flowers of Love" a 10 part BOM. Make sure you visit her every first of the month. I’ve already printed the first one, ready to stitch!

That’s my WIP ( Work in Progress) which may explain my MIA (Missing in Action) from link parties .

My morning ritual of blog hopping is a must. I love to see what everyone has been up to! If you have noticed, my blogroll of favourite places I visit is getting longer..and longer !

But what can be more fun than having peeps out there making use of my tutorials!

Vreeni of OOPS-LAH made my Hexie Caddy Pincushion. Love the colour combination.

Sylvie of Maevy’s Corner also made one from my tutorial. Isn’t it a beauty?! Gorgeous fabric!

And, Anita V of Trying To Quilt made my Hexagon Tote-Along Pouch with her daughter! No more trying Anita, you’re already there! It’s very well made.

Now , back to house chores and more stitching !!!

Please mail me your pics if you have made something from any of my tutorials. Thanks bunch!

Happy Stitching !!!

My Tutorial Made It..again!

2010-09-06T18:06:00.002+08:00

I made it to Totally Tutorials..again!

My ‘No Bias Binding Hexagon Coaster’ first made it there.

This time, my little Hexie Tote-Along Pouch was featured!

My little pouch was also featured in Freebies For Crafters last month.

Looks like my little pouch has been toting-along in blogland!

Thanks again Dotty.

Now hurry along to Dotty’s for a totally tutorial experience!

I moved out…..

2010-09-04T12:59:00.002+08:00

…my sewing machine moved out ….from the guest/sewing room yesterday. The mess I make in the little room was getting overwhelming. Besides, mummy will be coming for a stay soon :)

So, I moved into the computer/study…and now /sewing room . And to make the computer/study/sewing room a little more ‘sewing’ , I made a nice cover for my sewing machine !

I used a lot of white to make the room look bright and cheery.

This stitchery is just perfect! A reminder to anyone in this room to pick up those pins I may drop! It’s a stitchery for a pincushion from Homespun.

Get the free project here.

While there, check out the heaps of projects. I discovered them while checking out Khristina’s Flower Power.

I made the wrist pincushion.

I love it !

Happy Stitching and Happy Weekend!!!

There’s So Much Joy!

2010-08-31T23:37:00.002+08:00

Lately, there has been many giveaways and contests in blogland. Sometimes I join just for the fun…and sometimes I really really wish I would win..hehehe.

On Monday, I did a happy dance , again ! I won Joy’s ‘Guess the Buttons’ contest! Actually, I did not win, but Joy was so generous that she decided to give a prize for 2nd place too..that’s me!!!

Thank you so much Joy! You sure gave me lots of joy!!!

(…am still doing the happy dance!)

Then there is another kind of joy…the kind that makes me so happy and proud when some one actually ‘read’ my blog, ‘read’ my tutorials and make something so pretty with it !!!

Nima of Made To Treasure gave me so much joy to see that my tutorials actually work!!!

Don’t you just love it! You have to love hexagons by now!

Nima also made two Hexagon Tote-Along Pouches in two sizes!!!

I love the beads at the end of the drawstrings. Now, why didn’t I think of that!

Thank you Nima for giving me lots of joy too !

Now, hop over to Nima’s and see her other beautiful treasures.

Hurry go make my Hexie Caddy Pincushion

or the Hexagon Tote-Along Pouch and I’ll parade it here !

Happy Stitching!

Hexie Caddy Tutorial

2010-08-30T18:00:00.011+08:00

I cannot help but notice that there is a ‘hexagon-craze’ thingy going on in blogland !

…because…

I love my Hexie Caddy Pincushion ! And there are many of my blog readers and followers who agree too!

It’s pretty easy to make but I must warn you, it’s all hand stitched.

Here goes….

….but before I start…

This is a free tutorial. Do not pass off my tutorial as your own. It would be nice to give due credit to me and show me the ones you make!!!

Let’s start !

Cut 6 rectangles ( 2in x 4in) from a cereal box.

Cut 6 rectangles (3in x 5in) from fabric.

Fold in the seams and gum the fabric in place using glue stick.

Cut 3 paper hexagons with 2 inch sides.

( I like to go to this website for my hexagon templates.)

Baste one hexagon to the fabric with a running stitch. This will be the base.

Mount another hexagon on a cardboard(cereal box), trim and gum the fabric in place using glue stick.

Cut the third hexagon and ‘elongate’ it 2 inches as in the above pic.

Prepare 6 elongated hexagons using the English Paper Piecing method (EPP).

Edit:I’ve some e-mails asking how to ‘elongate’ the hexagon.

Here's a little diagram to explain the method.

Cut the hexie into half along the dotted line. You will get two half hexies. Using glue stick, gum the two pieces on another piece of paper, 2inches apart as shown in the diagram above and the pic above that too.

There you have ‘elongated’ hexagon’ !

Using whip stitch, join the elongated hexagon pieces. This is the pincushion.

If you don’t like EPP , you can machine stitch the pieces if you like. But I love hand piecing…so that I can watch ‘When In Rome’ at the same time …a very cute romantic comedy!

Leave an opening in the middle of two seams( opposite seams) . This will make stuffing easier.

Whip stitch to join the rectangles. Now you see the hexie caddy.

Remove the paper from the elongated hexagons and turn out.

Now you are ready to join the two pieces together.

Align the sides as in the left pic. Using slip stitch, join the caddy to the pincushion. This is the top of the caddy.

Using slip stitch again, join the paper basted hexagon to the bottom of the caddy. I like to make a few stitches before I give it a pull…

…see, easy and almost invisible.

Don’t worry if some stitches are visible. It is hand stitched !

Next, slip stitch the pincushion to the bottom.

Remove the paper hexagon. Place the fabric covered cardboard hexagon into the bottom of the caddy. The cardboard should keep the hexagon caddy in shape!

Next , fill it up! Remember, fill it just enough or it will go out of shape and the caddy wall will start to collapse!

Slip stitch the openings when done stuffing.

Isn’t this sweet?

…now I have to make another one….good thing I don’t have too many sisters !

I would love to see the ones you make. So please mail me your pixies and I’ll share it here !
~~I've added a Linky at the bottom of this post for you to add pics of your creations!~~

Happy stitching !!!

Deutsche Version translated by Regina Grewe . Thanks Regina .

My Hexie Caddy Pincushion was seen here :

Show me your Hexie Caddy Pincushion creations!

Linky Tools has ceased free service. ~~I am in the process of transferring your Hexie Caddy to another Parade using Link tool by~~ ~~inlinkz.com~~ ~~. Please be patient .~~( I was in the process of transferring your Hexie Caddy to another Parade using Link tool by inlinkz.com but I decided to post them myself in case inlinkz bail out on me too ! )

Join my Parade here.

As this tutorial is free for all my readers,

* DO NOT sell my pattern.
* DO NOT use my pattern for any commercial gains.
* Give credit to me as the designer of the Hexie Caddy Pincushion
* Have fun!
* Send me pics of your Hexie Caddy Pincushion .

Hexie Caddy Pincushion

2010-08-19T11:44:00.002+08:00

Two weeks ago, I made this pincushion caddy . After much advice from my blogging buddies, I decided not to do a tutorial. It is after all a pattern from a book, even though I made it without the book !

As you may know, I love hexagons! I’ve made

laundry basket covers	applique
coasters	placemat
table runner	tote

I’ve searched Flickr, Google and YouTube but no one seem to have made this…..

My very own ‘Hexie Caddy Pincushion’ !

It’s all totally handstitched!!!

This is going to my mummy.

May I interest anyone with a tutorial?

Penny joined these parties!

Hexagon Tote~Along Pouch

2010-08-16T18:25:00.001+08:00

On my usual blog hopping morning, I stumbled upon Tommy of The Material Girl. She has what I was looking for! A pouch to tote~along my English paper piecing projects.

Isn’t that a cutie?

Tommy has a tutorial to put it together. But here is how I made mine.

You will need 2 big circles and 2 small circles; one each main fabric and one each for the lining. (Ignore the two strips of fabric….didn’t use it after all)

{Forgot to snap a photo of this step, so a graphic it is :) }

Using the graphic above as a guide,stitch two 0.5” buttonholes 1.5” from the edge of the main fabric of the big circle.

Sew the cicles around the circumference,right sides together, with a 1/4 inch seam. Trim the seams..I used my new pinking shears from Ikea :)

Make a slit in the center of the lining to turn the right side out. ( You should make the slit before sewing to avoid accidental cut into the main fabric ) Press.

On the smaller circle, fold into two and then into three. Press, You’ll get six segments.The folded lines# are the guide for stitching. These will be the pockets.

On the big circle, stitch two lines. One on each side of the buttonhole all around the circumference . You’ve just made the casing.

Place a circular piece of batting on the lining side of the big circle.The batting will be the base of the pouch. So cut the size you like.

Place the small circle on top of the batting; making sure you have centered all the pieces. Stitch on the folded lines #. Using a hera marker, I marked the circumference of the batting and stitched on the marked line. I’ve just quilted the base !

Thread a ribbon into the casing through the buttonhole and back out from the same buttonhole. Tie the ends and pull it into the casing to hide the knot. Repeat with another ribbon on the other buttonhole.

Added two satin ‘ball’ buttons to the ribbon…love it !

Six pockets to hold the paper hexies, the basted hexies, a spool of thread, thread cutter and fabric for the hexies! All organised and ready to~go !

{You have to click on the pic to get a better look! }

Happy Stitching !

I would love to see the ones you make. Please mail me your pixies so that I can share it here!

Ring Binder Pencil Case

2010-08-12T17:41:00.002+08:00

Made this today. It’s a zipper Pencil Case for a Ring Binder.

Added two eyelets…if you don’t have eyelets, I guess buttonholes can do the trick too !

Great for keeping all those pens and scissors.

It’s for my sweetheart. He’s going back to school..woohoo!!!

Penny joined these parties

Flower Power

2010-08-10T12:08:00.002+08:00

Last week, Khris of Sew Prim Khris and Freebies For Crafters made it to Homespun! Have you seen the flowers Khris made?! She put together the Flower Power Sewing Accesories . Without hesitation, I ‘jumped across and grabbed the instructions’.

I already made myself a gorgeous pincushion caddy and fabric basket for my sewing room…..

….so, of course I need a wrist pincushion…. and a matching one too!

Makes a pretty wrist corsage too !

Sew n Tell

This is Daisy~Do block #1

If you haven’t already started, hurry over to Jenny’s blog for the free BOM.

(Click on the BOMs tab under my blog header for the link)

…here is block #2

I chose not to use buttons. Instead, I used the trusty satin stitch and stem stitch.

Happy Stitching !

Fabric Basket and Pincushion Caddy

2010-08-06T20:56:00.002+08:00

I made this today. Bookmarked the tutorial a long time ago but decided that today is the day.

Thank you Ayumi for the tute.

Two days ago, I made this. It’s a pincushion caddy!!! See all the pins ?!

It’s from a book Seams to Me by Anna Maria Horner. I have not seen the book but saw a picture of the caddy in Flickr. My first thought was “ it looks like a ball..a ball with a hole in the centre! ”

So, I googled for a ‘fabric ball pattern’….. and there were ‘About 2,140,000 results (0.19 seconds)’ !

After I printed the pattern, I put on my thinking cap …..

….Ta~ Da ! I made it without the book !!!

Perfect sewing companion!

Question: Will I be infringing copyright if I make a tutorial for the pincushion caddy?

Penny joined these parties :

New BOM

2010-08-04T12:37:00.002+08:00

Dawn of ‘As Sweet As Cinnamon” is sharing a new BOM…Frosty

Flakes. Thanks Dawn,you’re so sweet!

It’s running every Wednesday for ten weeks, starting today! Hurry there now and start stitching ! (Click the BOM tab under my blog header to go there )