About Me (Well, part of me!) Day 1

[My First Stab at Blogtoberfest!]

I have been a reader and lover of art for as long as I can remember. I started reading at an early age and stared at the art work of Rackham, Gorey, and Seuss which held my attention as much as the stories did.

Arthur Rackham's Little Red Riding Hood

I found myself lost in books for hours. I started writing my own little stories and had dreams of becoming a famous author. Somehow in becoming an adult, I decided that I needed a "real" job a.ka. - one that would pay money on a regular basis. I became a teacher to share my love of stories with others. 

About 14 years ago, I bought a sewing machine at a yard sale for $15 with my dear friend and decided that I was going to make my own clothes. (I mended a lot but never made anything that I would be seen in public wearing.) One day, my dear friend confided in me that she was pregnant and having another baby. I decided I wanted to make her a quilt. (My teacher's salary didn't cover much and I wanted to save a few bucks!) I was given a quilting book by my mother-in-law and that was the start of my love affair with quilting.

I still use my original Kenmore when I have heavy duty projects that don't need any frills like my newer Brother can provide. It's built like a steel powerhouse and will always be my first and favorite machine.

Rainbow Fun Times

I had great weekend mostly away from work. The rainy weather allowed me to sleep in a bit and get some sewing done. I worked on two rainbow pieces that I started a while back. I'm really excited about them.

Rainbow Spiral

 I completed all of the quilting on this hexagon that "spiraled out of control". I machine quilted around the design and increased the distance in an attempt to imitate a water ripple. Now, I need to figure out the binding. (That's my least favorite part of making quilts. I need to find a binding master/mentor that can help make the process easier.)

Rainbow Wave

Using a Dresden ruler, I cut these pieces a while back but put them away when they became frustrating. I kept trying to make an actual circle using rainbow colors but could not make it work. (Six does not go into 20 very well, even with matching rainbow polka dot dividers.) I started playing with a half circle and it naturally formed into this wave. I cut circles in half using white fabric to cover the edges. I stitched the edges down and several pin pricks later I have the top done. It measures  36" by 18" so far and could be my next table runner. I have no clue how to quilt it yet and am open to suggestions.

Hope you have a healthy, happy week.