Introducing the Wings Quilt Block!

Have you ever created a quilt block and didn’t like the way it looked? Maybe the color scheme used or the size of individual pieces within the block just didn’t look like the way you envisioned? This happened to me last week!

I started playing around with the ruler, rotary cutter, and swapping pieces around, then stitching back together. The result, the “Wings Quilt Block”!

I’m excited about this block because it is so versatile! The most difficult thing about it is, deciding on which direction you will want to put your blocks together! Just wait! You'll see!

It is when I put together this one single block up on my design board...

I realized the manufacturer printed the red print off kilter. On one side, the design is square to the selvage, but on the other side ~ the design it is off! There is absolutely NO WAY to “fix” this because it happened during the printing of the fabric. I HATE WHEN THIS HAPPENS! Anyway…

The final design is not blah. It is bold. It makes a statement.

Each individual "Wings" block will/should measure 8.5 before stitching together.

For my quilt, I created 24 blocks (four blocks across, six rows down = 24), then added 2 borders to get the width/length I needed.  Without borders, based on 24 blocks, using simple math the quilt measures 32" x 48" which is a nice size for a toddler!

Be gentle! This is my first time to write "formal" instructions! I created a .pdf file with the instructions here for you to download, for easy printing!

Or, you can follow along...

Wings Quilt Block

Designed by Lanetta J. Sprott

of Lanetta’s Creations

I highly recommend: Read through the complete instructions before starting!

PART ONE

Cutting instructions:

White with star print – 6.5” x 3.5”

Blue stripe – 9.5” x 3.5”

Red/white print – 6.5” x 6.5”

Sewing instructions (see TIP):

1)  Stitch (right sides together) the white and red. Press toward the red.

2)  Stitch (right sides together) the blue stripe to the white/red unit (see NOTE). Press toward the stripe.

TIP: When making more than one block, I cut all the white, red, and blue stripe fabric out at once. I quickly stitched the white to the red (it doesn’t matter which side of the white is stitched to the red).

I then made 2 stacks (one of the white/red and the other the blue stripe):

NOTE: Before stitching #1 and #2 together, the white fabric is at the top of the red/white unit and the blue stripe is on the right side of the unit. Be consistent! Each time you make this block, keep the top of the unit the same (in size and color) and the 9.5” piece on the right for Each block! This is critical!

Once you’ve stitched all 3 pieces together, give it one more press with a hot iron (no water/steam at all during the entire block construction). Now is a good thing/time to spritz a bit of spray starch to make it nice and flat, and to help keep down any stretching!

Individual blocks should measure 9.5” square. Trim now if necessary!

And, now on for the second/final part!

PART TWO

Place one basic block at a time on your cutting mat (right side up), white up, and stripe on the right side (see NOTE).

Cut diagonally – both ways – without moving any fabric until both cuts are done!

NOTE: Be consistent in positioning the block each time you put it on the cutting mat!

Swap the top and bottom pieces. Leave the sides alone. It should now look like this:

Pin ~ right sides together ~ matching seams… (see NOTE)

top and left section

bottom and right section

NOTE: As I note in the photo, don’t fret if the edge doesn’t match up. Your only concern (at this point) is that the seams match. Because we pressed in opposite directions, the seams should nestle together nicely.

Stitch units together.

TIP: whenever possible begin stitching at the 90 degree angle rather than the pointy end.

• Press to set the stitches,
• then place the unopened triangle back on your cutting mat. 
• Place your grid ruler along the stitched side (the bottom) and 
• line up the 6.5” grid mark at the left point. (I just love pictures!)
• Trim off the right side.

Press seam open.

Repeat this process with the 2^nd unopened triangle.

With right sides together, stitch the two sections together. Be careful NOT TO STRETCH the fabric!

The block should now measure 8.5” square! Trim if necessary and cut off the dog-ears!

 Ta Da! You now have created the Wings Quilt Block!

When arranging the 24 blocks on my design wall, I started with the center and worked out until I liked the design within the design! Add border, or more blocks, to create the size you desire!

How will you put yours together?

© Copyright 2016. This pattern is for personal use only. It cannot be used for commercial purposes. It cannot be copied or distributed in any format. It cannot be used with distribution of any product, including kits or made into a pattern for re-sale without the written permission from the designer, Lanetta J. Sprott.

Accountability to Myself

Working up my three “game plan” agendas before I left Dallas and returned home, able to get back to the studio, was the best thing I could have ever done! It so helped me stay focused on things I wanted to accomplish ~ besides a bit of housework and home renovations! Part1 is now officially done!

I created Momma’s phone pocket necklace and got it in the mail to her on Tuesday (Monday was Columbus Day, so no mail)… she loves it! I will see her this week and will take a picture of her wearing it! But, for right now, this is what it looks like…

I think he’s a cutie! I couldn’t follow the pattern/materials per se on the owl pincushion, but I don’t think anyone will notice! I didn’t have any yellow felt, so had to use the thin foam board for the beak and feet. It sews beautifully! Also, I wish I had used the more solid looking pink for the body’s front and the noticeable print for the pocket. Didn’t “see” the difference it would have made before I stitched it all together! Her instructions were clear and easy and had a bit of humor sprinkled throughout. I didn’t have anything she suggested to add weight to the bottom after stuffing… so I used washers (like bolts and washers, washers) from my husband’s workshop! He’s not fallen over once!

My first project working with Pet Screen went well, but will use a bit more screening in the next creation! I love the fun print on this one and wanted more of it to show. 

Scary zippers aren’t as scary any longer! I didn’t use a pattern, just based the bag on the size of the zipper! I like the angle of the print I’ve seen on other bags and just did my own thing on this one. I believe a fun zipper pull is called for, but haven’t yet decided what to make… still thinking about it!

Oh, My! This is what happens when you take a boring lamp & lampshade and turn it into something magical…

Boring!

Magical!

With my 1.5” left over scraps, I stitched them together, machine quilted, then applied a binding… and made a “mug rug” which works beautifully with my mouse!

And, now my sewing room will always have a yellow rose….

I have finished the First Christmas gift and I’ll get it in the mail tomorrow! Once received, yes, it’s an early gift, I’ll post pictures! Even if it’s not liked, or wanted, it’s the thought that counts! Right!?! At least, I created it with lots of love.

Okay. I’ll be honest. The fabric origami wallet didn’t turn out nicely. I don’t like the way the wrong side of fabric shows when no bills are in place. I’ve pressed out all the folds and will just do something else with the bandana fabric! Maybe someday I’ll try another origami design.

More shopping bags… a long way to go….

1,612 to go!

Sewing Groups

Are you part of a sewing support group? With access to the Internet, it doesn’t have to be a physical group, where you travel somewhere and gather with like-minded folks in person. In this day and time, virtual groups are but finger tips away! I’ve found some on Facebook, groups.yahoo.com, and I’m sure others are out there.

A while back, I created an open group on Facebook. The Sewists Group “about” states:

This is a support group of like-minded folks to talk about the love (and sometimes the frustration!) of sewing, receive help on any issues/problems related to sewing, and share ideas/links!

In September, I don’t know how I found them, but I stumbled across the Facebook group, Sew Modern Dallas Chicks! They meet at various places around Dallas (like a Hobby Lobby) as well as have online challenges! I didn’t get a chance to attend a gathering while in Dallas, but I do intend on participating in their October online challenge!

Their “about” states:

This Dallas-based sewing group is for beginners through advanced sewists. Do you want to learn or love to sew, quilt, embroider or any other artsy sewing? We sew just about anything from clothing and fashion accessories to home decor! We meet at a few stores around the Dallas area (primarily the North Dallas area) to learn the basics to advanced techniques. We also have open sewing known as ‘Saturday Sewing Socials’. We occasionally attend area sewing events.

If you’re on Facebook, how do you find sewing groups?

Search “Sewing”

Refine the search by clicking “Groups”

Scroll down the list! To see more, click the down arrow (bottom center of the list) to load more!

Don’t fret if it says “Closed Group” – click “Join” if the description suits your fancy! As soon as you click join, it changes to “Request sent” and most likely, after the group’s administrator sees your request, you’ll be approved! The group name will show up on your “home” Facebook page.

Once you’re in a group, if you don’t think it’s worthwhile, simply click “Leave group” and it’s done!

For me, groups on Facebook are much easier to find and become part of the discussion than Yahoo.

Do you have an online group? Are you part of a group that you would like to recommend? I love learning from others and see what others are doing!

P.S. Since I posted this article, I found & joined two more groups on Facebook!

1. Sewing Tote Bags and Purses
2. Sew Many Sewing Friends

Lacy Flowers

Strips of fabric, scissors, small circle of felt, and a glue gun! That's it! I just discovered A Little Shabby Chic - and had to share!


 I can't just watch one...

And....
there are so many others sharing their techniques!

Game Plan - Part 3

When I return to the studio, I don’t plan to “cross the cattle” guard for a good while! I hope it works out this way! (It's already changed! Must attend training to work the November election! Oh well, at least I'm working!) Setting up a game plan has been a big help to keep me focused and on point. After I get a bunch done shared in Part 1 and Part 2, I plan to create a few things I found during the September long National Sewing Month’s celebration ~ for myself.

I recently made a camo handbag but it needs to be a bit larger for all the stuff I carry around with me. The next one will have an internal zipper like Craft Passion explains in her tutorial.

Although summer 2013 is over, I think the wide brim hat is perfect protection from the Texas fall/winter sun rays as well. Before I start the much needed work on our keyhole garden before winter hits (readying it for a spring garden), I need something like this. I’m thankful The Weekend Designer provided a great tutorial.

I have a bit of muslin fabric in my stash I’m sure won’t be used in the other projects previously listed/planned. I believe it will be perfect to try my hand at printing… oops, reminds me, I need to put celery on the grocery list! Wonder what I could make to display the original printed fabric? Maybe a pillow?

I know I have to wait a while before tackling the suitcase. I would love to work on it, to get it done to help organize my dolly things, but I must place it on the bottom of my list. 

And, Last But Not Least … I want to learn how to use my new embroidery machine!!!! I need quiet time to study and practice…

Now, something fun for you…

• When you see a post on my Facebook page, something like: “Part 1, DONE” or “Part 2, DONE” etc. ~ you’ll know what I’m talking about!
•  Be the first to comment on my Facebook page, mentioning at least three (3) items I should have completed to be “Done” and win a handmade prize!

Good luck!

Game Plan - Part 2

I’ve already started a few of the Community Sewing projects mentioned previously.

A Veterans scrappy lap quilt is in the works. I need to finish it up before I get into the box of scraps I’ve set aside for it and do other projects with them instead! I started it back in August/September when I had my sewing machine in Dallas, while caring for my mother. After completing only two rows, I decided my back needed my normal cutting island rather than one of her regular dining tables. I had to put it on hold until I can dedicate the time to finishing!

While back at the country on a short visit last week, I could not not sew! So, I created a few shopping bags. They are similar to the Green Bag Lady’s, but a bit more finished & detailed. I completed five and have an additional five cut out & ready to sew but ran out of time due to helping with house renovation projects. Anyway, I may take the time to do some appliqué on a few of the bags! Or, at night while watching television, I could weave some ribbon fishes for a bit of embellishment!

My goal is to provide everyone in my little town a shopping bag! According to the 2010 census, I have 1,617 more to make!

I’m thinking… I may need to re-think that goal unless I get some help! I can see an assembly line and not everyone participating has to know how to sew! Cutting out and ironing/pressing would be awesome help! Maybe I can get a small group together! Wouldn’t that be a great winter project to do for and with the community?

Anyhoo...

In addition to the shopping bags, as I pull out to work a box or sack of fabric that family and friends have given me, I’m sorting the larger pieces to use in creating fun pillowcases. None are cut out ~ yet ~ but I know where I stacked the dedicated pillowcase fabric pieces!

I don’t remember how I found them, but I contacted Volunteer Match. I found a call out for sewing items I could create and simply mail to the organization for distribution where needed. Something called dignity scarves caught my eye. Come to find out, they are similar to my Wearable Napkins! So, I’ll use some of the larger pieces of fabric to create a few for their needs.

Working on a few more ideas.

Part 3 is a "work in progress" game plan to get things done and seriously downsize my stash!

Game Plan - Part 1

The other day I wrote, Name This Post, basically stating I had so much to do, so little time. I was totally confused as what to do, where to start first, etc. It was my way of asking for help! I know, I know! I’m on my own to figure it out!

  

I decided to go back through September’s posts and pick out the different things I shared and would like to do first, second, etc. So...

When I get back to the studio –

Before I do too much of anything else, I must design/create a phone pocket necklace, and get it in the mail back to Momma! She’s always forgetting to carry a phone with her, or when she does remember, she sticks the phone in her pants pocket & inadvertently pushes the “on” button or it slips out of her pocket into the chair! I totally forgot while she was visiting with us at the country last week! Should have done it then! Oh, well!

The Owl Pincushion is my all time favorite as it uses different scrappy fabrics and a variety of stitch applications. I can’t wait to get this made and use it while I’m creating everything else!

I found/bought some black Pet Screen at Home Depot (I know, black is not as fun as a “color”) but the fun print I’m going to use with it should work out nicely. I need a bag to carry my sewing supplies back & forth to the quilting club gathering I hope to get back attending when things calm down. On this one, I plan to use the open wide zipper technique Noodlehead shared.

I’ve mentioned several times… I have lots and lots of scraps. After cutting something out, if I have even enough to make a yo-yo from the tiniest scrap, I toss it in a box. After finding out about this clever lampshade, I can use the long scrap leftovers, not wide enough for a yo-yo! Okay, need another box for my upcoming collection. I have an ugly shade stashed away I’d like to recover and this will be perfect in getting my sewing room reorganized and prettied up!

Speaking of prettied – for me, I need to also make some long-stemmed flowers for my sewing room. I think I can spare 5” x 45” cuts off of some fabric before making into a pillowcase or shopping bag or wearable napkin. I’m thankful Snowy Bliss showed how to make them!  

I have a bit of Christmas Sewing I need / want to do. It won’t be too much this year… but I have this Hawaiian print I want to create something totally unexpected. I have a game plan… but I can’t share any more until after Christmas!

Another Christmas idea, after I make one for myself out of camo to match my handbag, is the origami wallet I found while writing about fabric origami projects. Bee a ba explains very nicely how to create it! I can’t wait!

Stay tuned for Part 2! I'm still working on it!

The End

Especially during September ~ National Sewing Month ~ I enjoy searching for new (to me) ways of sewing. Always wanting to sharpen my sewing skills, I never want to stop learning new tricks of the trade! I like purposefully looking for creations I’ve not yet done and add them to the never ending to-do list. Various times during the life of this blog, I’ve shared plans of doing this or that. Some I’ve completed, some still wait.

This month-long celebration is no exception. I’ve found plenty more sewing projects I want to try, techniques to implement, and goals to reach.

More to-do’s ~ in between everything else ~ why not?

Thank you for sharing this month with me. I hope you found the articles informative. It is my hope they will inspire and encourage you to sew sew sew!

If you’re looking for me – I’m sewing!

Print Your Own Fabric

Have you tried printing your own fabric? I’ve only done the tie-dye method, decades ago. Of late, I’ve seen some really interesting articles about designing and creating the print by other means ~ adding personal touches ~ to the project.

I didn’t have a clue how to do this, other than the “tie-dye” method, until I went on a mission around the internet!

The first technique that caught my eye, and gave me the inspiration for this article, was when I stumbled upon a short video clip from Better Homes and Gardens! They used celery to create a fabric stamp… that looks like a rose!

Then I went to YouTube and found lots and lots… like this one from Super Simple with Terri O (although I couldn’t find it on her actual website – and the search feature didn’t find it – but I found lots of other cool projects unrelated to sewing…but I digress…)

wikiHow provides the steps and tips and techniques to Make Your Own Fabric Prints. I will re-read this one before starting a project!

Poppytalk had a guest blogger, Karina Manarin, who gave a STEP-BY-STEP pictured tutorial “DIY: Print Your Own Fabric”!!! This is so doable!!!

I’m thinking a lot of us have used the trusty raw potato as a print stamp at one time or another. Sew Daily has a great article, “Simple Tips for Hand printing Your Own Fabric, Prints Charming” that is a good reminder of tips and techniques. It’s a must re-read once I get the potato out!

FYI: I’ve done this a couple of times ~ used my printer for small projects. If you want to use your ink-jet printer, wikiHow has a nice article explaining the process.

Taking it to the next level –

Okay, now you’ve created the most awesome print design ever and you want to get it professionally printed by the yard! There are companies that do this!

Kim over at True Up wrote a great article “My Big Digital Fabric Printing Experiment” comparing the four major production companies. I will re-read this post if ever I want to pursue this further! I noticed reading the comments were also helpful!  And, then her updated chart!

Have you printed your own fabric? What projects did you create? I can hardly wait to try my hand with printing my own fabric!

Why Not?

Why not enter a sewing competition? I asked myself this question a few years ago. Have you thought about it? Why not do it? A county fair maybe?

Before I go any further, I must add that today is OPENING day of our Great State Fair of Texas! The fair will run from today through October 20th. You've not been to a fair unless you've been to the Great State Fair of Texas! (My Humble Opinion!)

Years ago, Momma entered the sewing competition at the Great State Fair of Texas. Back then, winners modeled the outfits created. I remember like it was yesterday, sitting in the audience with my daddy, watching as she walked down the runway. I will always love that two-tone iridescent mauve petal skirt cocktail dress! Another time, much later, she entered a wedding dress she and I designed together. I had the honor of modeling her award winning creation. Within a few months, a knock-off showed up in Lester Melnick’s store window!

I so wish I had a photocopy of both creations… oh well.

It took me many years to gather the courage to follow in Momma’s footsteps. Yes! I finally entered the Creative Arts Competition! I decided 2011 would be a fabulous time because it was the fair's birthday celebration! Can you imagine 125 years? The Great State Fair of Texas has provided all attendees with fabulous memories over the years. I have the special memory of seeing my apron, bag, and doll dress, on display during the 2011 fair!

I also entered an apron and doll dress in 2012. More memories added…

It’s 2013 now, and I entered the competition one last time with this apron. I can hardly wait to add seeing it on display to my memory bank!

All Things Grow With Love... 

Back in August, I entered this same apron in my local county fair! I was THRILLED beyond words when I learned it received first place, and the Grand Champion award for the category! I was excited to see it on display during the fair, to create a new memory!

Will you enter next year in your county fair? Why Not?

Pass It On!

Do you know how to sew? Can you work a sewing machine? Do you understand the basic sewing instructions found in a pattern? I ask these questions because if you’ve answered yes to all three, then pass it on! I assure you, explaining and teaching the basics to someone else is very rewarding. One is never too young, or old, to learn how to sew!

When old enough to sit on a lap, the basics can begin!

I remember sitting on my Momma’s lap while she made my sister’s “back to school” clothes. Although I was probably only two years old, this experience is one of my first memories. Of course, it took years for me to understand the principles but the love for sewing began early.

The summer of 2012, I had the honor of teaching a few sewing basics to a small group of young ladies.

During Sewing Camp 101, we made a drawstring bag, a pillowcase, and a waist apron. They did so good, too! I hope to continue “So Sew Etc” again someday, maybe next year things will calm down a bit.

I created the So Sew Etc Facebook page. In the “notes” section you’ll find the registration form and instructions I created. Feel free to modify and use for your class! You’ll see the photos, too – all the serious expressions followed by genuine smiles – priceless!

When one teaches, two learn. – Robert Heinlein

 A couple of things the “next generation of sewists” taught me to explain straight away:

Although the sewing machine’s wheel turns both ways, only ONE way is the RIGHT way! Oh my goodness… I had forgotten how quickly the bobbin housing can get all out of whack when turning the wheel the wrong way! Talking about a major stand still when this happens… if I recall correctly, all five ladies did the same thing at the same time! Total shut down!

“Speeding” was another issue we had. I finally realized, when home after the first day and talking about it with my husband, I should explain the proper placement of the foot on the machine’s pedal to better control the speed. The next morning, I gave them the example used when learning to control a vehicle’s accelerator (heel on floor, base of foot/toes controls the pressure). Although none were of age to drive, they will already have this bit of information to carry when they do learn to drive! ;)

For a refresher on basics, and beyond, I highly recommend the Sewing.org website where you’ll find SEW-lutions Guidelines, educational articles on just about everything there is to know about sewing!

In the spirit of “pass it on” – enjoy!

Sewing for Seniors

I’ve seen oodles of websites offering suggestions regarding sewing for children. No need to go there, it’s fully covered. The market is saturated. It is my mission to comprise a list of Sewing for Seniors, items for people years older. With Seniors, the elderly, the Age-Wise generation in mind, I asked myself the questions:

What could I create that complements their active lifestyle?
What could I create to make life easier?
What could I make that is more comfortable?
What could I design to provide privacy?
What could I make while Sewing for Seniors?

When I set my mind to this mission, the list grew and grew. With your help, I’m sure it will grow even more!

  

Neck Pillows

“C” (Like a travel pillow) and “Bone" or "Bow-Tie” shaped neck pillows

in a variety of fabrics and colors.

I found this nice Bow-Tie shaped free pattern at Sew4Home.

And, a travel pillow pattern at The Cottage Mama.

Pillowcases

Made using satin polyester for easy maneuvering against bedding,

satin pillowcases are perfect for keeping the hairstyle nice between salon visits!

Lap quilts

45” x 60” minimum size

 

Ready to quilt!

Knee Rug

(I’ll use fleece rather than wool)

38” x 46” average size

Hats

Hats are great for sun protection as well as for warmth.

Any I shared in the Sewing Hats article would work nicely, too!

Phone Pocket Necklace

I’ve noticed telephones have a tendency to fall out of pockets,

they slip down between seat cushions,

then they are not “missed” until one walks into another room

and the phone starts ringing, or worse, a phone is needed.

I need to create something like this very soon!

Shoulder capes

Elegant yet functional, shoulder capes are easy to wear

while sitting underneath drafty vents

watching television, playing Bridge or Uno, or dozing in the easy chair.

A while back, I quickly created one for my mother using fleece.

Shawl

A shawl is similar to a shoulder cape, but a bit more versatile.

Depending on the fabric and style, a shawl would work nicely for a man, too!

No Sew Fleece Neck Wrap

Oh, I hate the drafty draft that comes down the back of my neck.

This is something I “fixed” for my daddy… it was so quick and easy, too!

I cut a long (60”) narrow (12”) piece of dark brown (his favorite color) fleece

and that was it! Fleece is lightweight yet warm!!!

Then I showed him how to wear it without having to tie a knot!

This website calls it a European Loop

Fold in half, matching cut ends together, forming a loop at opposite end.

Place around neck and thread both cut ends through the loop,

tighten as desired.

Arm sleeves

My daddy always complained about his arms – from wrists to elbows –

being cold / chilled so I created “sleeves” out of fleece.

Tapered at the wrist, the seam was on the outside

so not to rub or bother his thinning skin.

I so wish I had a picture of him wearing his sleeves…

Wearable Napkins

Originally designed and created for my mother while spending time in a rehab center,

the wearable napkin functions like an adult bib.

But, for something my lovely momma wears, even at home,

I will never refer to it as a bib!

Walker bags

I have several patterns in my stash for walker bags,

but when I went to make one for my mother,

I didn’t like the way they looked so I created my own style.

She loves it, too!

Shopping bags

(13"H x 12"-17"W x 6"-8"D is the size of a standard grocery bag)

Don’t we all have enough plastic already?

I read somewhere,

over the life of one fabric shopping bag

hundreds of plastic ones will become obsolete!

I hate to think of the loss of marine life

and the tackiness of our beaches

if we don’t put a STOP to using plastic shopping bags!

Personal Accessory Bags

I haven’t yet designed this, but is on the top of my to-do list –

I want to create a flap over bag to keep in the bathroom, next to the toilet.

A discreet storage for daily personal needs, and a great use for those monthly needs, too!

It must be at least 11” long, 6” wide, and 8” tall – I’m working on it! 

Cane covers

 In June, a friend of mine brought her cane to show me at our annual slumber party.

She had thought of me, thinking it would be a cool item for me to create.

It was SO cute covered in fabric up to the handle. I had never seen this before!

(I since have gone on a search and found bunches! Guess I need to "get out" more!)

Wouldn’t this be lovely in a leopard print?!?!

Or, coordinating with the different seasons or holidays?!?!

I will be making this for momma’s cane when I get back to the studio!

She is my beta tester!

NOTE: I’m a “baby boomer” (born between 1946 and 1964). When I began this mission I had in mind my parent’s generation. I realize now many items on my list would also work fabulously for other generations!

What else could I make? Please help me with suggestions!