Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Halloween Quilt Along Project #2

Blooming Boots Table Runner 

Designed by Sandy Gervais and made with the Monster Bash Layer Cake.  I LOVE this table runner.  Isn't this soooo fun! I think the only thing missing is "If the boot fits"   embroidered right next to one of the boots.
Below are some close up photos so that you can see the fun detail in this pattern!   I am missing the applique buttons on the boots, but that is because I have decided to sew on some real buttons.  I am hoping to find some unmatched old-fashioned type buttons. Anything witchy really.  Send me a link if you see the perfect buttons!


The boot is seamed with 3 separate layer cake units (you cut a layer cake in half so that you can repeat the same pattern in the boot on the opposite side).  If you click on this picture, you can see the two seams - there is one above the heel.  I had two black squares in my stack so I made the boot black with the tips out of the spooky words.  I have also seen the boots made with the black flower print for the top portion of the boot, the black texture print at the bottom of the boot, and the spooky words at the tip.  You get to choose!  I say be creative.
 The flowers took a little more work but were totally worth it!  That is ric rac sewn behind the applique. These ruffled edges give some texture and dimension to the flowers.  Before pressing on the large orange oval pieces, I traced around them with a disappearing ink pen right onto the background fabric, and then used that marking line for a guide when attaching the ric rac on by machine. Whew!  Did that make sense? Lastly, I pressed the on the orange flower pieces and used a blanket stitch around the edges.  If you love to needle turn applique, you will do this by hand as you sew.  Follow the pattern's instructions.
AND LOOK WHAT I HAVE LEFT OVER!  Almost enough for another table runner.  I have enough pieces on the right for another table runner border.  On the left I have 14 extra layer cake squares.  You will need just a few light creamish 10" squares for the back ground, and then you can make 2 of these table runners.  If I have time this week.....I am going to make another one out of the left overs.  I will post pictures when I do.
Have a wonderful week and Happy Quilting!

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Home is Where the Haunt Is Final Pictures

Yes!  All the hand-stitching is done!    "Home is Where the Haunt Is" Quilt Along - check.  I have to say that I really enjoyed this project.  And I improved my applique techniques.  Below are several pictures of the finished quilt.  This pattern was designed by Kim of Kimberbell Designs.
Sandra has cut and assembled 12 more kits.  You still have plenty of time to get yours finished.  The large applique pieces are perfect for beginners to practice on .   We have changed the kits  for the better! See the lower right block with the "on point" cream and black squares?  We decided the cream could be just a little darker.   The new kits will have the same fabric as the 2nd pumpkin from the left, just above the full square on the left.  We think you will like this better.  Although, I love mine just as it is.
Close up of the quilt.  Look at the broom bristles - curled strips of fabric.  Thank you Leisha for your quilting talents.  Leisha always makes my quilts look better.  Can you see the spider web in the 9 patch?  She switched thread colors for the lighter blocks.  I love the pumpkins.  Click on the picture for a closer look.
 I think those little spiders need some eyes!  I will be on the look out for some tiny bright green or orange buttons.
My son held this up for me so that you could see it as a wall hanging.  If you have finished your quilt - send us pictures and we will post them!

What's next in our Quilt Along? I was thinking that a Halloween table topper or runner would be fun. After living in Connecticut for so many years, Autumn and Halloween decorations are my favorite.  Here is a sneak peak at what I have started.  The background is finished but it is folded up so you can't see the whole thing til next week.

See those rectangle fabrics layered at the top?  Those are all leftovers!  I think I may have enough in this kit for 2 table runners.  Check in with us next week as we continue our Halloween Quilt Along.