Quilts by Barb - News from Barb

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

“Home Sweet Home” Quilt Along with

Kim’s Crafty Apple

My TiltedHouse

By Barbara Raisbeck, Quilts by Barb

My fabricchoices: I am using mostly overdyed fabrics for my “Home SweetHome” quilt so I selected them for this block also. I will tell you a little more about overdyedfabric at the end of this tutorial.

Fabric 1: The house – I used a nice rich purple

Cut: (1) 2 ½” X 10 ½”

(3) 2½” X 4 ½”

(1) 2 ½” square

Fabric 2: The door and chimneys – I used a red withgold sparkles

Cut: (1)2 ½” X 4 ½” for door

(2) 2 ½” squares for chimneys

Fabric 3: The roof – Brown with a design that lookslike shingles

Cut: (1)2 ½” X 6 ½”

(2) 2 ½” squares

Fabric 4: The sky – A grayed/blue that looks like sky

Cut: (5)2 ½” squares

Fabric 5: The window – I used a lime green likereflecting light

Cut: (1)2 ½” squares

Fabric 6: The frame – I used a reddish orange stripthat really framed my house.

Cut: (4) 2 ½” X at least 13”. I used a fat quarter and cut (4) widths of the fat quarter.

Let’s put our house together:

Lay out your house pieces inrows as pictured.

Row1: sky-chimney-sky-chimney-sky

Row2: sky/roof-roof-sky/roof

Row3: house

Row4 & 5:house-door-house-window/house-house

Now to assemble the houseis really easy!

First we are going to combinethe roof and sky together into half square triangles. I wanted to cut all my pieces at 2 ½” widthso I am using a little different method. Draw a line down the center of wrong side of your sky fabric. Put sky and roof fabrics, right side togetherand sew ON THE LINE.

After you sew on the line,trim ¼” from the line. Note your tailsare already trimmed. Press trianglesopen toward the sky fabric. Make (2)sets of these half square triangles for the edges of your roof. Put these back in place in your house layout.

Next we are going to sew therows together just as we have them laid out. Starting at the top of your house:

Sew Row 1. Press your seams toward the chimneys.

SewRow 2. Press the seams toward the halfsquare triangles.

Row 3. Just leave until we need it.

Row 4/5 – Sew window to topof house square. Press towardhouse. Then sew pieces together fromleft to right. Doesn’t matter which wayyou press your seams.

We have all the rows of our house together so let’s sewthe across rows together to form our house.

In the picture I have sewn my1^st and 2^nd completed rows together. Press seam toward chimney row.

Continue to add row 3 and 4/5to house. Doesn’t matter which way youpress your seams.

Congratulations, you have ahouse! The house should measure 10 ½”square, but guess, what; it doesn’t matter if it is a little large or a littlesmall; we are going make it a tilted house.

I forgot to take a picture ofmy finished house so this is cropped out of the house with border picture. You will have a seam allowance of ¼” by yourroof edges. My mistake; I was too excitedto tilt my house!

Now we are going to borderour house and tilt it. Sew one of the 2½” strips to the top and bottom of your house. Press the seams away from the house and trim the ends even with the edgeof your house.

Now sew the last 2 ½” borderstrips to the sides of your house. Pressseams away from house. Isn’t it fun!

Take your large square, Iused a 12 ½” square, and lay it on top of your block. Tilt the square anyway you want as long asyou don’t cut off your house. I try tostay at least ½” away from all edges of my house.

Cut on all four sides of yoursquare. If you are using a larger than12 ½” square, cut the finished house block to 12 ½”.

PRINT your own PDF instructions of this block by clicking HERE.

A littlemore about this block: I use this method of tilted blocks alot. I love it for making T shirt quiltsor orphan block quilts. Chose somethingto coordinate the blocks and you have a lovely quilt.

This is a completed quilt that was made and donated at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Week using the house block from this tutorial. It now hangs in the Baymont Inn Convention Center in Belmont, Wisconsin.

Thisis an orphan block quilt that was made from quilt blocks donated byparticipants at the 2011 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. The blocks are set using the tilted method inthis tutorial. It was given to Marissa,a young girl who was in a car accident.

A littleabout overdyed fabric: Overdyed fabric is regular commercial fabricthat has been scoured and then overdyed with procion dyes. I have done a lot of this type of fabricdyeing in the last couple of years and found it brings new life to some fabricsthat were just so-so.

I hope you enjoyed my tiltedhouse.

Barbara Raisbeck

Owner of Quilts by Barb

Pleasevisit me on the web to learn more about our 10th Annual QuiltRetreat Getaway Weekend and our Summer Hand Dyeing Workshop that we are holdingat Lapacek’s Orchard. We would love tohave you join us at either event!

2012 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

2012-01-04T08:55:00.000-08:00

Check out my web page for all the info on our 2012 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend.

We are at a new location for our 10th Anniversary.

We would love to have you join us for a fun filled, educational weekend of quilting.

Barb and Diane

Baffled In Belmont – Step 1 – Fabric!

2011-11-10T18:26:00.001-08:00

A mystery created by Diane Lapacek for the 2011 Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend held in Belmont, WI.

Kim here! It’s almost time for the retreat so you get to hear from me today!

Just days before I planned on heading out to the Quilt Retreat I decided that I would do the Mystery Quilt. Diane was over and she helped me pick out my fabrics!. Lucky for you – you now get to follow along in the fun!

Step 1: Fabric Selection

Fabric A and B: This mystery is designed as a scrap quilt. Choose 2 different colors for A and B. Complimentary colors will created lots of zing.

I chose some muted to lime green for my Fabric A.

CUTTING for A: 40 strips: 2 1/2” x 10 1/2”

This piece of Bryant Park Orange Faded Floral from Anthology fabric from FabricFascination was actually my inspiration to even do this quilt. I’m sure you all know that I just finished up with a crazy busy apple season and I really need to get inventory created for my two big sales coming up (the 5th Annual Handcrafted Hoedown for the Holidays and the 7th Annual Holiday Craftacular). I had just planned on going to the retreat for a weekend away but once I even thought about doing the mystery project, I glanced through my stash and saw this piece. It was just ‘calling’ to me to be made into a quilt.

CUTTING FABRIC B: 24 strips – 2 1/2” x 10 1/2”, 43 squares – 4 1/2” x 4 1/2”, 8 squares – 6” x 6”, 2 squares – 4” x 4”

Fabric C. Should be more neutral in tone and medium light in value. Don’t get too wild here. Pick one fabric (1 3/4 yards) or several that are closely related in tone and value and not too busy.

I chose some hand-dyed fabric for my fabric C. The main portion of the fabric is actually my piece of from Barbs ‘Yard that Keeps on Giving’. For the life of me I could NOT find the piece she had given me. Of course, I had put somewhere special so I wouldn’t get it confused with my other hand-dyes..and of course, I couldn’t find it. So, as I was packing for the retreat and searching for a pattern (that I still can’t find) I FOUND MY YARD THAT KEEPS ON GIVING! Woo Hoo! There’s no way I would get it made into something before Saturday night’s show and tell but it happened to be perfect for my Mystery Quilt!

CUTTING Fabric C: 14 strips: 4 1/2” x 42” (or shorter strips to equal this)

Fabric D. Lights. Mix lots of different ones. Variety is a big plus here.

My Fabric D are some yellow/oranges. I think it will be a fun addition!

CUTTING Fabric D: 16 strips: 2 1/2” x 10 1/2”, 28 squares: 4 1/2” x 4 1/2”

Fabric E. Darks. A darker version of either A or B or pick another color. Use lots of fabrics or just one (1/2 yard)

I chose a fun orange/brown/gold fabric for this.

CUTTING Fabric E: 6 Strips: 1 1/2” x 42” (Or shorter strips to equal this)

Step 1 is complete! All my fabrics are cut and ready to be made into a beautiful MYSTERY Quilt.

Celebrate Christmas

2011-09-21T23:15:00.000-07:00

If this is your first time visiting me, Welcome to Quilts by Barb. I am located in Bloomington, Wisconsin, and am a long arm quilter. I also teach quilting (check out my classes and lectures) and love to hand dye fabric. I sell my fabric at venues around the area and when I am teaching and lecturing.

I host a Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend each fall. The 2011 Retreat is scheduled for November 11, 12 and 13 at the Baymont Inn and Suites Convention Center in Belmont, Wisconsin. Please check it out if you are in our area. We would love to have you join us!

September 22 - Road to Retreat

I have decided to use a block, Road to Retreat, from our 2011 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend for the Celebrate Christmas quilt-along.

Click here for instructions for "Road to Retreat" block.

Follow me on Facebook.

Check out my web page to learn more about me and to see samples of my long arm machine quilting.

Celebrate Christmas is a Quilt-Along sponsored by Quilting Gallery. Check out their super deals for quilters here. Join in the fun!!

Mystery Monday – Finally Finished!

2011-04-11T05:44:00.001-07:00

In 2009, I attended the QuiltsByBarb Quilt Retreat in Belmont Wisconsin and started the Mystery Quilt. It is 2011 and I have finally FINISHED the quilt! It was just one of those quilts that took me awhile to get into – but once I started again it didn’t take long to make some real progress.

My color scheme was grey, pink and turquoise. I am really happy with the final result! Of course, I sent it to Barb to do the final quilting and of course, she did a fabulous job as always!

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Judy Hopkin's’ Mystery Quilt Singles patterns for individual quilters are available through Feathered Star Productions at www.MarshaMcCloskey.com

***If you participated in the 2009 Quilt Retreat or just decided to follow along with the mystery on this blog please send me your completed quilt pictures! I would LOVE to see them! Just email me at: {lapaceksorchard at gmail dot com} and I will post them to this blog!***

Count Down to the Quilts By Barb Quilt Retreat – Leaving TOMORROW!

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

If any of you could see the pile of things waiting to be packed into my van (yes, I’ll have to drive it around back) you would probably think I’m crazy! I’m only going to be gone for two days! I just really don’t want to feel restricted in anyway so I’ve pretty much packed up my entire sewing room. I can’t wait to head out for Belmont tomorrow to the retreat and get sewing!

Here’s the teaser quilt for today:

Fruitful Harvest – Crossroads

an overview of this beautiful lap quiltA close up of the ‘fruity’ quilting Barb did for Diane.

Count Down to the Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat – 3 days

2010-11-10T13:03:00.001-08:00

For some reason I decided to have a Pampered Chef party at my house tonight so my preparation for the Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat had to go on hold so I could clean my house (or at least three rooms of my house…). BUT I’m still super excited!

Your temptation/teaser today is -

American Candy Quilt – Hand in Hand

overview of the quilt close up of the quilting

Count Down to the Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat – 4 days

2010-11-09T05:49:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to head down to Belmont for the quilt retreat and I’m sure there are many others that are as well. It’s been such a crazy busy apple season that I absolutely can’t wait to go and sew for 2 days straight (I know, some of you luckies get to stay for 3 days)!

If you’re not excited yet I wanted to show off one of the quilt’s Diane made as an example for the retreat to help get you excited.

The Scrappy Blackford

OverviewA close up of the amazing quilting Barb did on the quilt!

Wait to see more as I continue to count down to the retreat!

Crazy Nine Patch Class

2010-08-01T16:46:00.001-07:00

The Crazy Nine Patch Class was a success. Take a look at a few of the quilts that were started.

More later. Barb

2010-07-22T08:30:00.001-07:00

I still have openings!

Announcing a brand new Quilt Class!!
“Crazy Nine Patch”
When: Wed, July 28, 2010
Time: 9:00 – 3:00
Where: Barb Raisbeck home, 421 Mill St, Bloomington, WI
Cost: $30
Lunch: Will be provided

Call me at 608-994-2821 or email me at Quiltsbybarb@tds.net for details or to reserve your spot.
Barbara Raisbeck

An Interview with Tisha Sandberg – Instructor of the Papercraft/Scrapbooking Portion of the QuiltsbyBarb Getaway Weekend

2010-07-05T18:51:00.001-07:00

As well as being able to learn some fantastic new quilting projects on the 2010 QuiltsbyBarb Getaway Weekend you will also have an opportunity to learn from an artist on some Papercraft/Scrapbooking techniques.

Meet the instructor - Tisha Sandberg

I asked Tisha a few more questions about herself and her art so we could find out even more. And here’s what she had to say:

***All Images shown are examples of Tisha’s work***

When did you first start creating things?

I’ve always loved making things; Halloween costumes, Valentine boxes (I’m seriously dating myself now!) really anything that involves working with my hands. I grew up around lots of boys, so I also built things with wood, used tools and did lots and lots of yard work, which I think can also be creative…digging, planting, growing.

What were the first things you created? and how did your creativity progress from there?

My first serious art experiences were in Jr. High School. I had an incredible teacher who exposed me to things like printmaking, sculpture and other forms of art that, in retrospect, were pretty amazing for Junior High. I also lived in a college town and was able to take classes in the summer. A friend and I took a class one summer and there was a nude model. When my dad picked us up we didn’t say a word for fear we wouldn’t be able to take classes any more.

My early art experiences really stuck with me but I didn’t get back to art seriously until about 12 years ago. I turned a room in our house into a studio and it really changed my life. Everybody needs a workspace of their own….even if it’s a tiny one!

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere! I love design and texture and look to everyday things for inspiration. I take a lot of photographs and also carry a notebook with me all the times. I’m also drawn to primitive, African and Indian art and like to browse through books with images of cave art or the designs on clothing, etc..

What is your favorite medium to work in? I really can’t think of many things I don’t like to work with, but paper and fabric are probably my favorites. Do you still dream about making other things? If so, what? Absolutely! But as I get older I’ve realized that I just can’t do everything that I have a desire to do. I’d rather do a few things well than lots of things in a mediocre way.

What's your favorite variety of apple?

Honey Crisp, but I buy Empires because they keep so well.

What are your favorite shops on etsy? Why do you like them? I love printmaking, so love all the sites that have silk screen and relief printed items. I also love handmade books and cards because they can be really unique, funky, beautiful, etc., and still have a functional use. There are so many great shops it’s hard to pick a favorite.

see more of her fantastic work

So now that you’ve ‘met’ the instructor let’s find out MORE!

What will we be doing?

We will be having a special area with lots of room for scrapbookers, card makers and papercrafters to share ideas and enthusiasm for the things they love to do. We may even find some things to do with all those beautiful leftover scraps of fabric!

projects

handmade books that can be used as photo albums or scrap books
handmade cards and creative packaging ideas for giving them as gifts
templates and instructions for making gift bags, boxes and photo/music CD cases
rubber stamp carving
other instructional information ***Information will be presented on photo editing/altering, printing your own papers, using materials you won't find in a scrapbook store and much, much more. There'll be plenty of time for you to share your own creative ideas as well. So come and join us!

I am personally excited about this addition to the quilt retreat weekend! There are some great lessons being taught that can be incorporated into creating amazing OOAK fabric (rubber stamp carving) and art quilting! What fun and what variety!

News from Quilting and Sewing Expo in Oshkosh, WI

2010-05-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

I received the following from Connie, a student from the Expo in Oshkosh. I will be teaching this same class as the Sewing And Quilting Expo in Platteville, WI on June 4 and 5, 2010. Thanks, Connie, for sharing this with your friends and me.

"I just wanted to show you the beautiful quilt I made. It was the first I have machine pieced and machine quilted although I'm still working on the hand quilting of my daughter's memory wall hanging. I have sewn squares together for quilt tops at Wisconsin Warmers, an Oshkosh volunteer group that makes quilts, lap robes, Christmas stockings, and book bags which are donated in the community.

This quilt started with a fabric exchange at the Oshkosh 2010 Quilt and Sewing Expo held in March. Barbara Raisbeck did the lecture called "Do You See What I See" and she suggested the 5 inch squares could be banded on two sides and laid out with every other one turned upside down. That makes double sashing in some places, the colored squares touching on the other sides, and makes the beautiful diagonal pattern. I used a multicolored small floral print fabric (because I love flowers) for the backing and binding and quilted it in the ditch. It fits on the top of a single bed in my guest room and ended up this size because of the number of squares from the exchange although I did double up with several of the fabrics I'd shared.

This was a fun project that took most of my free time for two months so now I have to get busy and wash windows and transplant some flowers. I hope you liked to see my retirement skills in action."

International Quilt Festival - Chicago

2010-04-17T08:37:00.001-07:00

Barb was asked to submit quilts for the International Quilt Festival in Chicago IL. I was happy to snap pictures of THREE of her quilts that were prominently displayed during my visit yesterday. (My pictures don’t even begin to do them justice.) A Wholecloth Sampler Card of a Different Color Katrina’s Log Cabin

If you would like to take a class from this talented quilter you can sign up for the 2010 Quilt Retreat being held in Belmont, WI, November 12th, 13th and 14th, 2010.

Who’s Got You All in Stitches?

2010-03-17T06:06:00.001-07:00

Hopefully your answer is my ‘Love is in the Air – Hot Air Balloon Quilt.’ Yes, I was honored to be chosen as one of the 50 competitors in this voting competition. To read more behind why Quilting was chosen check out this storque article: http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight/etsy-finds-all-in-stitches-7387/

Don’t forget that Saturday, March 20th is National Quilting Day.

In the meantime, please cast your vote for my ‘Love is in the Air – Hot Air Balloon Quilt’ here: http://www.etsy.com/voter_list.php?ref=voter&room_id=96

The Vote Closes at 11:00am EST on March 18th…so don’t wait too long!

You do have to be a member of etsy to be eligible to vote – don’t worry – it’s easy: https://www.etsy.com/register.php

***Normally I do a front page analysis of etsy on Tuesday – I am unable to find the flickr account that etsy keeps with these front page screenshots – does anyone know what happened?***

Update on Blog

2010-03-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

Greetings,

I have to apologize for the problems on my blog. My account has been disabled and I don't have any idea of why!

If you look back through the posts, any posts that I added to the blog are missing all their pictures. This includes many of the retreat pictures from years past.

I am unsure what I am going to do from here. Please stay tuned and visit my webpage for updated.

Thanks.

Barb

www.Quiltsbybarb.com

QuiltsbyBarb on Etsy’s Front Page!

2010-03-02T15:04:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to QuiltsbyBarb for having her Scraptastic Quilted Table Runner make front page with my midnight treasury! It looked great up there!

Kim’s Mystery Retreat Quilt

2010-02-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

Today I finished quilting another beautiful quilt that was made as a Mystery Quilt at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. Kim did a fantastic job on her quilt and I love her colors.

View Full Album

Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend 2005

2010-02-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

In cleaning out my old computer and transferring to my new, I came across a copy of my old webpage from 2005. Found lots of pictures from the 2005 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend.

Our project was Camp Wawbeek Trail.
This was Diane Lapacek's sample for the weekend.

Kathy Parker won the give away blocks for a sampler.

We had snow that weekend but notice how green the grass was!

Now all four of these ladies were working on the same quilt. Is it the block or is it the quilter or is it the teacher? I wish I had finished quilts to match each block.

Get a load of the line up at the ironing tables!

I was doing some tearing out for someone. But, what I really like about this picture is the food on the snack tables in the background!

I love the concentration on the faces in this picture. This had to be one of the most serious times at all of our retreats. I really wonder what was happening!

We paper pieced a mini quilt with insulated batting to use as a hot pad for the center of the table. Who's hands are in the picture on the left? A $10 gift certificate to the store at the 2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend for the first one to identify them.

Show and tell of our 2004 project, Prairie Star,

an original pattern by Diane Lapacek.

A beautiful Bargello shown at Show and Tell.

Thankful, counting, ironing and concentrating.

And, last but not least, Diane Lapacek, my number one teacher for my retreats and none other than me, Barbara Raisbeck, the owner of

Quilts by Barb.

More pictures coming soon!

Happy Quilting.

Barb

Team EtsyBABY Valentine’s Day Challenge – the CONTENDORS

2010-01-22T14:04:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! Kim here. I entered a quilt (you’ll see it below) in the etsyBaby Valentine’s Day Challenge. To be fair I wanted to show you who I’m competing against and I would like you to vote for your favorite…but if you feel so inclined to vote for me I’m good with that too! (A link to the vote is listed below all the entries…)

Shop: mysweetsunshine
Little Miss Red Poppy 2 Piece Outfit

Shop: BabyEtte
Sueded Ring Sling Be my Valentine Baby

Shop: AngelBeez
The Kye Parfait

Shop: KimsCraftyApple
Love is in the Air - Hot Air Balloon Quilt

Shop: Little Jumping Beans
Valentines Hearts - Soft Soled Cloth Baby Shoes

Shop: mrowe
Cashmere Baby Blanket

Shop: alphabulous
"Be My Valentine" fabric appliqued photobook

Shop: SaritaBaby
Andalucia minky baby bib

Shop: PoshPipsqueak
Fuzzy Legs

Shop: auntyanndesigns
Boutique Style 3 Piece Baby Bling Red and White Lycra Leotard with Multi Petal Swing Skirt and Matching Headband Set

Shop: LaDyLaDuke
MY BABY'S GARDEN-BABY BE MINE VALENTINE FLOWERS

Shop: Daisy Creek
"Bee Mine" Rhinestone Tee

Shop: GrowinLikeAWeed

Hand Painted Wood Plaque for Girls Room

Shop: hottotsbowtique
DREAMY DAMASK 2 peice set

Shop: claireandjanae
Felt Cookies

Shop: trendypeas
Bird Card Design Valentine's Day

Shop: ImogensGarden
Lucy the Lovebug an eco friendly rag doll

Shop: LittleTumblebees
Love - Valentine's Day Onesie

Shop: tigesandweince
Heart Shaped Pillow

Shop: elisehooperdesigns
Red Octopus Poncho

Shop: DivaBabyDesigns
THE HEART BREAKER -Zebra Heart 2pc Tutu Outfit

PLEASE click HERE to vote for your Favorite! Voting is Open Through January 31st!

Mystery Quilt

2010-01-18T17:20:00.000-08:00

I quilted my first Mystery Quilt from the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. This belongs to Barb and she made it for her granddaughter who should be here in a couple of weeks! I love the pinks.

Quilts By Barb on the Front Page!

2010-01-10T15:09:00.001-08:00

Yup! It’s true. From 2:00 am (EST) to 3:00 am QuiltsbyBarb’s Scraptastic Quilted Table Runner was on the front page of www.etsy.com. Congratulations Barb!

The treasury was curated by a fellow Quiltsy member: Pamelaquilts – nice work!

Mystery Quilt at 2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

2010-01-07T08:01:00.000-08:00

We had a mystery Quilt project (see pictures, steps, etc that Kim has posted earlier) in 2009 and it was such a hit we decided to have another one in 2010.

I just finished making the top from Christine Hampton's direction for the 2010 Mystery Quilt. It is easy, fun and completely diffierent than 2009. No, I can't show you a picture and neither will Christine! (One hint: There are NO triangles that needed to be squared up) This is a brand new pattern designed especially for our retreat. Thanks, Christine.

Remember When...........

2010-01-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

Time for another update on my Remember When series. We will move ahead to 2004 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. This retreat was also held at Sugar Creek but at the Koinonia Lodge.

Our project was "Prairie Star." This was an original pattern created by Diane Lapacek. Diane has been the A number one teacher at all the retreats hosted by Quilts by Barb. I couldn't do it without her.

In the 2003 pictures, I only showed the back of Bette's head.

I really thought we should show her off a little better.

This quilt was a real hit at Show and Tell. My daughter, Katrina and

daughter-in-law, Nikki, are both UW alumni and would love to have it.

This is the mystery in 2004. Who does this quilt belong to?

The first to identify the owner receives a $10 gift certificate in the store at the

2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

Each year at the Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend we make a quilt to "give back." In 2004, we put together a "village for Sugar Creek." These are some of the blocks donated by the retreat participants that we assembled into a quilt and reteurned to Sugar Creek to hang in their new lodge when it was finished.

Pictured at left, is Diane Lapacek and at right, Barb Raisbeck.

At retreat, we meet many old friends and make new friends. Mary Ann and Terry are old neighbors and good friends who have attended a number of our retreat together. Karen and Claire are new acquaintances and were soon friends. I think that is Mary hiding behind a T shirt quilt we helped her with.

Claire never stops smiling.

Stayed tune for more Remember When.......... pictures.

If you are interested in joining us for 2010, check out the details at

Quilts by Barb, 2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend or email me at

Quiltsbybarb@tds.net

We would love to have you join us!

Remember when -

2010-01-06T21:43:00.001-08:00

I have heard who the mystery woman is in my picture from Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend in 2003. Stay turned f or more pictures and an identification!

Remember when -

2010-01-03T10:44:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning some old stuff from my computer and ran across pictures from prior quilt retreats. I thought is would be fun to post a few pictures at a time. These pictures are from our very first Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend held at Sugar Creek outside of Ferryville, Wisconsin.

The Pineapple is still one of my favorite quilts to teach. I am going to Wyoming to teach this class to a guild this spring. I have been working on my sample and that is why I was looking at old pictures!

The Pineapple. Lori added her own flying geese border

Jean hard at work.

My sample Pineapple done in all neutrals.

Diane Lapacek's sample showing how she redid the border to make the outside all dark.

Someone help me. I can't tell who this is! First one to tell me gets a $10 gift certificate to the store at 2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend in Belmont, Wisconsin.

Thye mystery is solved! This is Julie. Thanks to Bette for letting me know.

AND Bette's shirt says it all, "Born to Quilt"

Mystery Monday - The Final Step in A Judy Hopkins Mystery

2009-12-28T08:35:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous and safe holiday! I’m sure you’ve all been anxiously awaiting the final step to this fun mystery.

Join the rows to make a BUCKEYE BEAUTY quilt, turning every other row upside-down to form the pattern.

I have included pictures of the mystery quilts that were finished at the 2009 Quilts By Barb Quilt Retreat. I have yet to finish mine (the one that I’ve been showing in the other instructions) but no worries – I’ll be sure to blog about it when I do! I also do not know who’s quilt is who’s so if you would like credit please just leave a comment with your name and the corresponding letter that goes with your quilt top!

(A)

(B)(C)(D)

(E)

Add 6” borders in your choice of fabric. 1-1/3 yards of fabric will yield 7 selvage-to-selvage strips, 6-1/2” wide, for seamed borders. For borders cut from the lengthwise grain, you would need 1-1/2 yards of fabric.

TO ADD BORDERS: Seam the strips as necessary to make strips long enough to border the quilt; press seams open.

Measure the length of the quilt at the center, from raw edge to raw edge. Cut two border strips to that measurement and join them to the sides of the quilt with a 1/4” seam, matching the ends and centers and easing the edges to fit. Then measure the width of the quilt at the center, including the border pieces that you just added. Cut two border strips to the measurement and join them to the top and bottom of the quilt, matching ends and centers and easing as necessary.

This is the quilt that Diane finished as a sample for the Mystery Quilt. She decided to to her borders in a way that she deemed fit for the quilt. That’s the beauty about borders…you can do whatever you want! To see more pictures just click HERE!

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Judy Hopkin's’ Mystery Quilt Singles patterns for individual quilters are available through Feathered Star Productions at www.MarshaMcCloskey.com

***If you participated in the 2009 Quilt Retreat or just decided to follow along with the mystery on this blog please send me your completed quilt pictures! I would LOVE to see them! Just email me at: lapaceksorchard@gmail.com and I will post them to this blog!***

American Jane Quilt Series

2009-12-27T15:54:00.001-08:00

Barb has recently listed a series of ‘American Jane’ wall hangings onto her etsy website. Here’s an overview of these nostalgic and fun quilts.

American Jane Snapshot Quilted Wall Hanging

This whimsical and nostalgic wall hanging quilt has ‘snapshots’ of different American Jane Scenes. I used fabric from the Moda, American Jane Collection – Recess to bring people back to the ‘good ole days’. This quilt would look great hanging in a child’s bedroom or playroom.

I used a rainbow-like pattern when quilting this wall hanging – I feel that it really accents the quilt nicely.

Approximate Size: 40” x 42”

Two Vertical American Jane Quilted Wall Hangings

These wall hangings show snapshots of three different American Jane Scenes using fabric from Moda, American Jane Collection – Recess. Buy just one or the pair to create a great look in a child’s bedroom or playroom.

Approximate Size: 25.5” x 15.5”

Ring Around the Rosie American Jane Quilted Wall Hanging

An adorable scene of kids playing Ring Around the Rosie is the main focus of this wall hanging. It is a fun, nostalgic and whimsical fabric panel from Moda’s, American Jane Collection – Recess. The perfect decoration for a child’s bedroom or play area.

Approximate Size: 27.5” x 31”

Horizontal American Jane Quilted Wall Hanging

This wall hangings show snapshots of three different American Jane Scenes using fabric from the Moda, American Jane Collection – Recess.

Jump Rope American Jane Quilted Wall Hanging

How fun do these children seem to be having playing a nice game of jump rope! I sure remember those days…what a great image for your child to wake up to each morning.

London Bridges American Jane Quilted Wall Hanging

This nostalgic retro scene of the children playing London Bridges brings a smile to my face. This is perfect on it’s own for a child’s bedroom or play area or paired up with any or all of the other of my Dick and Jane listings.

Mystery Monday – Step 7

2009-12-21T14:06:00.001-08:00

Join the blocks in rows of 6, alternating Block A and Block B. Start each row with Block A. Press seams all the same direction (trust me!) You will have 8 rows – and 2 blocks left over

Maybe your group would like to pool the leftover blocks and have a drawing for them…or, put them together for a community service quilt.

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Don’t miss next week’s post…you’ll see the final quilt all put together!

2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

2009-12-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

Announcing:

2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

When: November 12, 13 and 14, 2010
Optional November 15, 2010

Where: Baymont Inn Hotel and Suites Convention Center
Belmont, Wisconsin

Details and registration at www.Quiltsbybarb.com

We would love to have you join us.

Mystery Monday – Step 6

2009-12-14T09:36:00.001-08:00

Using the LIGHT/DARK half-square triangle units and the LIGHT/MEDIUM four-patches, make 25 Block B. Combine the fabrics at random. The blocks should measure 6-1/2” x 6 1/2” (raw edge to raw edge) when sewn. Press seams however you wish.

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Show and Tell – The Yard that Keeps on Going….

2009-12-10T14:32:00.001-08:00

The Yard that Keeps on Going...... is another section of the Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend's sponsored by Quilts by Barb ‘Show and Tell.' Before I get into the pictures I’ll explain what the ‘Yard that Keeps on Going...........’ means.

The Rules:

1. Everyone gets one yard of Barb's own hand dyed fabric from Quilts by Barb. This one yard piece is Barb's selection. You may trade your one yard piece with anyone in the retreat group BUT you MAY NOT trade for a different yard of hand dyed fabric from the Mini Store.

2. The fabric is yours to do what you want. If you bring an actual finished project back to a future retreat where you use ALL OR MOST of the one yard piece of hand dyed fabric, you will receive another FREE yard of Hand Dyed Fabric from Quilts by Barb to make a second project of your choice. (No pictures of projects please; we need the real thing!) The rules will stay the same, year after year. The fabric will always be Barb's choice.

3. The fabric must be used on the quilt front; it cannot be used as a quilt back. Would we accept a mini whole cloth table topper with cool machine quilting on the full piece of hand dyed fabric? Yes, absolutely.

4. Use your imagination. All the fabrics handed out each year are from the same dye batch. The coloring will vary but the fabrics will all have some similarity.

5. This will be an “extra item” Show and Tell each year. We want to see who has fabric going and going and going through our 10th anniversary!

The following are pictures from the 7th annual Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat. Some is the fabric from the 5th retreat, some from the 6th…

I’m excited to see what everyone comes up for next years’ retreat!

Mystery Monday – Step 5 of a Golden Oldie

2009-12-07T19:27:00.001-08:00

Using the LIGHT/MEDIUM half-square triangle units and the LIGHT/DARK four-patches, make 25 Block A. Combine the fabrics at random. The blocks should measure 6-1/2” x 6-1/2” (raw edge to raw edge) when sewn. Press seams however you wish.

***Note: This is one of those designs that creates an occasional pressing conundrum no matter what you do. If you press seams open, you may have more difficulty matching matching points and seams, and you’ll have no “ditch” to stitch in when you reach the quilting stage. If you press to the side you may have to twist some seams on the back when you assemble the blocks and/or the quilt, to make them butt together properly for easy joining. You choose!

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Don’t forget to tune in next Monday for Step 6!

Mystery Monday – Step 4 of the Golden Oldie

2009-11-30T09:28:00.001-08:00

Cut ALL of the strip units you made in Step 3 into segments 2” wide. You will need 100 LIGHT/MEDIUM segments and 100 LIGHT/DARK segments.

Join the segments to make 50 LIGHT/MEDIUM four-patches and 50 LIGHT/DARK four-patches as shown. Combine the fabrics at random. The four-patches should measure 3 – 1/2” x 3 – 1/2” (raw edge to raw edge) when sewn.

If you’ve missed the earlier steps it’s easy to catch up! Just click on the links below:

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Don’t forget to tune in next Monday for Step 5!

Mystery Monday – Step 3 of the Golden Oldie

2009-11-23T05:59:00.001-08:00

Join 10 of the 2” x 21” LIGHT strips to the 2” x 21” MEDIUM strips to make 10 strip units that look like this (below). Combine the fabrics at random. The strip units should measure 3-1/2” wide (raw edge to raw edge) when sewn. Press seams toward the MEDIUM fabric. Join the remaining 2” x 21” LIGHT strips to the 2” x 21” DARK strips to make 10 strip units. Combine the fabrics at random. The strip units should measure 3-1/2” wide when sewn. Press seams toward the DARK fabric.

If you’ve missed the earlier steps click on the links below:

STEP ONE

STEP TWO

Stop by next Monday to see what Step FOUR brings!

Show and Tell - Miscellaneous

2009-11-18T06:04:00.001-08:00

Here’s some more show and tell from the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb. This time the projects could be whatever the person wanted to show off…limit of one. Enjoy! Tried to get the quilting but was difficult in the few minutes I had and the lighting situation…

I did my best to get pictures of everyone’s project but things moved pretty quickly so I apologize if you’re not shown…

Mystery Monday – Step 2 of the Golden Oldie

2009-11-16T07:24:00.001-08:00

If you’re just tuning in make sure to check out Step 1’s blog post from last week.

STEP TWO

Make half-square triangle units from your 4” squares.

To do this layer your MEDIUM fabrics on your LIGHT fabrics and then layer your DARK fabrics on your LIGHT fabrics. Once the triangle units are created, trim square to 3.5” x 3.5”. Press seams toward the MEDIUM or DARK fabric. You should have 50 light/medium units and 50 light/dark units.

My Curvilicious Project and others…

2009-11-11T15:32:00.001-08:00

This past weekend I went to the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb and I have actually finished one of the projects I started there. (I started three…what was I thinking? I know what I was thinking…I wanted to learn everything that they were teaching even though one of the teachers is my MIL, Diane Lapacek, and I can ask her any time!) I just wanted to share it with you.

This project came from the book, Easy Biased Covered Curves by Wendy Hill. Because I did the mini project and the mystery quilt project I didn’t want to go to crazy with the Biased Curved project…I just wanted to learn the technique so I could use it in future endeavors. I decided I would make a tote bag out of my blocks.

Since the curvy project seemed a little wild to me I decided to choose wild colors for my bag. I really wanted it to pop…

I think I accomplished that….

I enjoyed learning the bias technique but did not really enjoy all the prep work involved. I will have to try it again in my basement since we had to walk outside to use the basting spray (I’m lazy) and I won’t have to do that at home…may make things less tedious. The actual sewing of the bias onto the curves was really not too difficult as long as you took your time.

I’m really happy with my final result…helps make the time worthwhile!

This is a great (and practical) tote bag for anyone who wants to call attention to themselves. As you can see, I used a wide variety of yellow, orange, green, and blue fabrics to create this bright, vibrant bag.I’m sure people will notice you if you are carrying this bag around. I used a few of my leftover scraps from my biased curved blocks on the handles to create an even wilder looking bag. I think it adds flavor and sturdiness. I lined the bag with Blank Textiles Fusion Illusion Fabric and added a fun little teal striped pocket to the inside of the bag(approximate dimensions 4.5” x 5.25”).

Bag dimensions are approximately: 14” x 14” x 5” with 20.5” straps.

What do you think of this ‘Curvilicious Tote Bag’?

Here are some pictures of other participants Curvy Projects (most are when in progress):

Which one is your favorite?

Show and Tell – Past Years’ Retreat Projects and other Show and Tell

2009-11-10T07:11:00.001-08:00

There are three sections to the Quilts By Barb Show and Tell during the Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. We show quilts that were completed from, previous years' projects, other Show and Tell Projects and "the yard that keeps on going..........." The following are a mixture of previous projects and other Show and Tell.

I have to do a disclaimer that I took these pictures quickly ... they are not perfect and some may be blurry, but I think you’ll get the gist of it!

I wanted to put this one last because this quilt is from a block exchange we did at a retreat a few years back. These were the blocks the winner received and this is the gorgeous quilt that was made.

Mystery Monday – STEP ONE

2009-11-09T10:40:00.001-08:00

One of the projects this past weekend at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb was a mystery quilt. So, for the next few Monday’s I will be posting the clue and the pictures of what was created from the clue. At the very end of this series I will post some pictures of what the quilters created during the retreat. It’s so neat to see how everyone took a different approach to the color scheme’s and fabric selections.

We did the pattern ''Golden Oldie’ A Judy Hopkins Mystery

Before we arrived at the retreat we were told to chose:

1/4 yard each of 5 different LIGHT prints (I chose grey’s)

1/4 yard each of 5 different MEDIUM prints (I chose pinks/purples)

1/4 yard each of 5 different DARK prints (I chose teals/aqua's/blues)

Cutting – Golden Oldie (I’m just going to give you the gist of what we were instructed to do. Click on the link above to download the mystery for free)

from EACH of the 5 LIGHT prints:

Cut 4 strips, 2” x about 21”

Cut 2 strips, 4” x about 21”, cut these into 4” squares

from EACH of the 5 MEDIUM prints:

Cut 2 strips, 2” x about 21”

Cut 2 strips, 4” x about 21”, cut these into 4” squares

from EACH of the 5 DARK prints:

Cut 2 strips, 2” x about 21”

Cut 2 strips, 4” x about 21”, cut these into 4” squares

2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend and The Christmas Store and Quilt Shop

2009-11-06T23:36:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! The first night of the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb was a lot of fun! I’m writing this at 1:30 am and I was not even close to being the last one to bed. I’m not going to write too much in this since I really need to go to sleep but I wanted to share some pictures. Tonight I’m just going to share with you some pictures from The Christmas Shop and Quilt Store we have set up. This will be open to the public today from 8am until 5pm at the Baymont Inn in Belmont, WI. Some beautiful hand-dyed fabrics dyed by Barbara Raisbeck and Diane Lapacek. An overall look at some of the beautiful items we have for sale. Jewelry from theApple and Blue Hill By Hand Apple cozies, wall hangings, and table runners Wall hangings, canned items from Lapacek’s Orchard, Body Butters from Zuresh, Christmas decor… Baskets by Becky’s, Cute frames and wall decorations,Wide variety of bags Some gorgeous quilted wall hangings… I hadn’t seen these yet and I think they are just beautiful!

Alright…now it is time for me to go to bed. I have to get up EARLY to start sewing and help run The Christmas Store and Quilt Shop (make sure to stock up on all your quilting/sewing needs!). See you in the morning!

Preparing for the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb

2009-11-02T10:52:00.001-08:00

I am one of those ~~girls~~ people that can pack for a weekend and easily spend a week away without having to do laundry. I’m terrible at making decisions…you never know what you’re going to need and what if it’s at home? Well, packing my suitcase of clothes is easy (sweatpants, fleece pants, pajama bottoms, tanks, t-shirts, and hoodies, oh and some clean underwear). My plan is to be cozy and unconcerned about my looks. Now, packing fabric…not so easy.

My plan for the book of circle quilts is to make a little of everything and then create some great bags from my blocks. I’m going to need a lot of options! What to bring? I’ve been ‘collecting’ beautiful and fun fabric for the past year or so…now my problem is that I don’t know how to pick what for each project. I guess I’ll have to bring it all! For the ‘mystery’ quilt I plan on doing a grey (black and white), pink (into purples and reds too) and teal (blues and greens) so I have to separate those out. I have determined that I am going to bring at most, two crates full of fabric…I think that’s reasonable…you?

I’ll keep you all posted of my preparation progress.

I will also have lots of jewelry and handmade items for sale at the Christmas Market. If you want a sneak peak at what I’ll be bringing check out theApple and KimsCraftyApple.

A Treasury in Preparation for a FABULOUS Retreat Weekend!

2009-10-22T11:06:00.001-07:00

Last night, Barbara Raisbeck, owner of Quilts by Barb managed to snag a treasury west in honor of the upcoming Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend she’s hosting (no, it’s not too late to sign up!).

She chose circular quilts for half the treasury because one of the project options is a project from the book, “Easy Bias Curves.” The other portion of the collection was found by putting the word ‘mystery’ into the etsy search engine in honor of the ‘Mystery’ Quilt project that will happen.

I just have to say that I’m SUPER excited for a weekend away! I LOVE that I chose to go with my own room at the hotel…it means 48+ hours of sewing and peace and calm. I CAN’T WAIT!

Retreat Mini Project

2009-08-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it'll soon be time for this year's retreat. The new location should be nice with
plenty of room for everyone to spread out...which I SO like to do, as anyone who's ever sat next to me will agree.

Hope everyone has finished up last year's mini project, and will remember to bring it along to share. I've been selling my pattern at a couple of local shops and will be teaching it each of the three days of this year's Wisconsin Quilt Expo. Coming up with something new for the retreat every year and having a deadline is just the kind of pressure I need to get things done. If you'd like to see more of my quilts and other artwork, check out my blog at tisha-tsblog.blogspot.com.

I'm busy working on this year's mini project and it's going to be something totally different. Again, we'll be using my original pattern and some of Barb and Diane's beautiful hand-dyes. The pattern can be made up to look anything from more subdued and traditional to totally wild and funky...but that's all I'm going to tell you for now.

Hope to see you at the Expo, and oh, here are a couple of Barb's creations from my pattern.

QuiltsbyBarb made ETSY Front Page Last Night!

2009-08-14T05:10:00.001-07:00

The treasury ‘Ahhh’ created by theApple made it to the Front Page of Etsy last night around 9:30. It was so exciting! I actually got to see it up there for an hour! Not only was my Teal Tree Top Tote Bag up, but so was my Aunt Barb’s True Miniature Rag Quilt! What a great way to end the day!

QuiltsbyBarb made ETSY Front Page Last Night!

2009-08-14T05:10:00.000-07:00

The treasury ‘Ahhh’ created by theApple made it to the Front Page of Etsy last night around 9:30. It was so exciting! I actually got to see it up there for an hour! Not only was my Teal Tree Top Tote Bag up, but so was Quilts by Barb's True Miniature Rag Quilt! What a great way to end the day!

It's a Mystery to Me

2009-07-29T17:53:00.000-07:00

We have added a mystery project to the Fall Retreat. It will be simple and fun. Many of you will be able to finish the mystery and have plenty of time to try a simple project from the Easy Bias Covered Curves book and still have time for the mini project.

The mystery project is lap size, but can esily be made bigger if you decide you really love it. That's one of my favorite things about a scrappy project...you never run out of fabric. Just add some more fat quarters and keep on going.

If this sounds like too many things to do, just pick whatever appeals to you most....or bring in your own project to work on. We'd be glad to help with that, too, if you have something that's giving you problems.

What Can I make with Dyed Fabrics? (Quilts)

2009-06-06T05:43:00.001-07:00

Are you considering attending the upcoming Fabric Dyeing Workshop at Lapacek’s Orchard (June 20th, 2009) but are unsure about what you can do once you have all of this gorgeous hand-dyed fabric in your possession? I am about to show you LOTS of examples of quilts we’ve created using our hand-dyes!

Above is just a few of the fabrics that I dyed one morning with Diane. I took pictures of them because I was going to be using some of them in a quilt I was working on.

I really like to use a combination of commercial and hand-dyed fabrics in my work. I really think it adds another dimension to the piece. In the above ‘Where’s the Point – Firework’s’ Quilt I used a yellow and red fabric that I had hand-dyed.

In my Disappearing Dog Star Quilt many of the purples, pinks and teals are fabric that I hand-dyed.

The background of this Spring Flowers-Pastels is a piece of fabric that my mother-in-law, Diane hand-dyed (I’m not very good at pastels…Diane will show you that technique in a few weeks).

A fabulous piece of hand-dyed pink and orange hand-dye fabric inspired this beautiful Sunrise Curtain Quilt.

My sister-in-law, Karma, made this fabulous True Lover’s Knot quilt using a combination of hand-dyed fabric to compliment the fun swirly commercial print!

Hand Dyed Fabric works just FABULOUSLY for making Ricky Tims’ Convergence Quilts like the one pictured above.

All of the fabric in this gorgeous Montana Star quilt by Diane was hand-dyed…aren’t the colors so rich? Diane also made this stunning log cabin quilt…using ALL hand-dyed fabrics.

This Jungle Quilt was made by Diane for my daughter Cedi and she mixed hand-dyes with commercial print to create this perfect quilt that my daughter will cherish for years!

I hand-dyed extremely long strips of fabric to create this one of a kind woven quilt.

Click HERE for more examples of items made with our own hand-dyed fabric.

In a few days I’ll share with you some other projects hand-dyed fabric can be used for! In the meantime, stop by http://www.lapaceksorchard.com/ to sign up for our fabric dyeing workshop before all the spaces fill up!

If you want to see an amazing blog of a past student check out: http://www.dyecandy.blogspot.com/ and her etsy shop Dye Candy. She learned some basics from Barb and Diane and she's taken it to another level! I'm very impressed with her work and creativity!

Where's the Point?

2009-05-17T18:29:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I decided I wanted to make a quilt for my friend Liz's wedding. I needed the pattern to be fairly simple but gorgeous at the same time. I decided to give Barb's original 'Where's the Point' pattern a try.
Here's the final product! I am extremely happy with how this quilt turned out!
I sent the quilt to Barb to do some bare-bone's quilting and I also bought a quilt back from her. She chose this fabulous batik print for this quilt! I loved how the bare bones quilting looked on this quilt...it was already busy enough with all the color and pattern happening...it needed something simple and what she did was just perfect!

You can see the quilting a little better with the picture above...

I have the wedding next weekend...I can't wait to see what my friend thinks of her gift!

Quiltsy Etsy Street Team Presents: May Daze!

2009-05-07T05:43:00.000-07:00

The Quiltsy Etsy Street Team Presents:
May Daze!

May 10 -16, 2009

Play our game during May Daze and you could win one of these fabulous prizes!

STOP TO PLAY, STAY TO BUY

Has the long, cold winter left you in a daze? Well, Quiltsy is celebrating the coming of spring in a big way, with an assortment of prizes worth $350!!

Our May Daze promotion is sure to waken your adventurous spirit with a lively game of hide & seek through participating shops. While the game is being hosted, you will also be treated to special promotions offered by each shop which can range from free shipping, to free gifts and/or discounts. Winners of our game will receive prizes from among our most popular-selling items.

Quiltsy Team members are quite a creative bunch, and you will find within the items for sale new twists on traditional quilts, as well as other delightful items in the fiber arts arena.

HOW TO PLAY

Your objective is to find the secret letters hidden within listings of participating shops. These letters will be placed in one of the 4 alternate pictures in a listing of the seller's choosing.

There are SIX words in total, and 35 shops. The letters that belong in the same word will be the same color to help you unscramble.

The letters will be hidden in a quilt-related item; the seller may opt to give a clue, so be sure to read the shop intro!

Once you have located all the pictures, unscramble the matching letters to form a quilt related word/phrase.

Send your answer in a convo to QuiltsyTeam. (You will need to sign in to Etsy). Please include the words "May Daze" in the subject line.

For each correct answer, you will get an entry to win one of six prize packages. The number of prizes in your package is determined by the length of the word. So for example, if you unscrambled the word "lotion", and your name is drawn from the correct entries, you would win six prizes!

We encourage you to buy from participating shops, but there is no purchase necessary to enter or win.

Winners will be drawn from among the correct answers received. Winners will receive notification of their winning entry by May 25, 2009. You will be asked to provide your shipping address at that time.

Your prizes will be shipped direct to you from the shop giving the prize. This is great because you will get little surprises in your mailbox over several days. How fun!

RESTRICTIONS

No Quiltsy Team members or their families may play.

Drawing only valid for correct answers received between 12:00 AM EST May 10 through 11:59 PM EST May 16, 2009

Only one entry per user per word. So you cannot submit "lotion" over and over; but you could submit "lotion" and "soap" to get two entries.

We sincerely hope you enjoy our May Daze promotion! Good luck!

LIST OF PARTICIPATING SHOPS

Please visit QuiltsyTeam.etsy.com for the complete list of shops and to play the game!!!

Remember: you are looking for letters like this in one of the images of a listed item in their shops!

Written by LoveBug Studios. Letter image provided by ForQuiltsSake. Prize photos submitted by participating shops.

If you win the item from QuiltsbyBarb you will be winning this stunning piece of hand-dyed fabric (1 yd)!

Whoever wins the item from KimsCraftyApple will be recieving this hand-dyed quilted zippered pouch!

ALL shops participating in this even will be having special promotion offers....a percentage off, free shipping, or maybe even a free gift! Make sure to stop by and see what you can get and have FUN playing the game!

It's Time to Vote Again! Team etsyBABY Cinco de Mayo Challenge

2009-05-06T05:21:00.000-07:00

It's officially time to vote for the next etsyBaby challenge. This month the theme is: Cinco de Mayo, which I just heard on the radio that festivities in Mexico are cancelled. Oh well, we'll still celebrate on etsyBABY! Just click on this link: http://www.shopetsybaby.com/May.htm to cast your vote!

The challengers:

Tadpolecreations made this adorable Baby Mexican Mariachi Guitar Onesie

This cute Lounge Set for Girls was made by DillyBobDesigns.

EmaleesBoutique made this EtsyBABY Cinco de Mayo Team Challenge inspired clippy.

Gaiababy made this super fun Punk Diaper Bag for her entry in the challenge.

Once again, ImogensGarden did not disappoint with her: Marcela a Waldorf-inspired doll. GrannysKnits made the cute sweater that comes with this adorable doll.

Minimonster did not disappoint me in this challenge with their

MiniMonster Hot Hot Hot Pepper Finger Puppets (3).

PlainJaneBaby made this Boutique Tattered Fabric Flower that would look fabulous on any girl (I’m even thinking about it…how great!)

PokaTods made this cute boutique travel wipes case for their entry.

Osana the UPCYCLED OCTOPUS is SewnNatural’s Entry….Way TOO Cute!

This adorable i rock onesie is brought to you by Stoopher.

Where's the Point - Fireworks Quilt is my entry for this months challenge! I took some new pictures of it on my deer fence on Sunday…I’m pretty happy with how it looks!

So that was a quick picture summary of this month’s competitors. I hope you take a minute to go and VOTE!

News from Kim's Crafty Apple

2009-04-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

The end of my week has been full of some fairly fabulous news (other than the newly caught cold and sore throat...but I'll get over that!). Just wanted to share some of it with you!

First, Scott, from the Poynette Press/DeForest Times came out on Thursday and did an interview with me and took pictures for a story on etsy.com for the paper. I'm very excited to see how that comes out! Publicity, publicity, publicity.

Then, I found out that my Patchwork Corduroy Quilt WON the etsyBABY story time challenge!

And to top it off - my Spring Flowers - Pastels Quilt was chosen by one of the editors of the FaveCraftsBlog to be featured in one of their blog articles!

I also just found out today that my Patchwork Corduroy Quilt was featured on this blog: http://veneziebags.blogspot.com/2009/04/saturday-spotlight_17.html

My other big news this week is that I have decided to split my KimsCraftyApple Store into two stores. I am in the processs of moving all of my Jewelry to a new store called theApple. I hope you keep an eye on it for the next few weeks as it continues to grow and improve. Also remember I am happy to do custom orders on jewelry, hand-dyes or quilts. If you like my style but aren't seeing exactly what you have in mind...convo me and I'll see what I can do!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Remember the Scrappy Pineapple?

2009-04-16T05:31:00.000-07:00

I recently downloaded Picasa 3, a picture organizing software, onto my computer. Now, I am not a computer guru by any means but this is one software I may try to learn. Anyway, to get to my point.........

I ran across my Scrappy Pineapple from our very first Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend in 2003 at Sugar Creek. I had forgotten how much I loved this quilt!

At the time of the 2003 retreat, I was also teaching a quite a few quilt classes. I made this quilt as an example of using scraps and also the value of colors. When you have a pattern that calls for lights, mediums and darks, the values are all relative to their neighboring fabrics and colors. None of the fabrics in the body of this quilt would be considered "dark" by most standards BUT in relationship to the other fabrics in the quilt they are dark.

It is fun to make a "neutral" quilt. My neutral bin of scrap fabrics is always so full I am lucky to be able to get the lid on it. We use so many neutrals in our quilts that we always have small pieces left over. Experiment; challenge yourself to make a quilt or small tabletopper with all neutrals.

Embellishments

2009-04-11T15:01:00.000-07:00

I finally finished up the first project I made from the retreat book for this fall. It had been hanging on my design wall for a few weeks waiting for me to decide what it wanted next. I've found if I'm patient, the inspiration will come to me and this time was no exception.

I had lots of fun adding fibers from my collection. I arranged them in curving lines and in circles and stitched them down by machine. I added a few circles just using my machine by pulling 2 different threads through my machine at once and free form stitching in circles to make subtle echoes of the fiber circles.

I think it turned out pretty well. Not my usual style, but I always consider it a plus when I create something "outside my box". I like to encourage my students to try something outside their box, too. This fall's retreat would be a great time for you to try something really different.

Quilts by Barb in the news...................

2009-04-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

One of my quilts was highlighted in the Storque by guest curators, Sarah Rara and Luke Fischbeck of Lucky Dragons.


Story by birdsofpreyLA, luckydragons Published on March 2, 2009 in Spotlight

Luke Fischbeck and Sarah Rara (aka birdsofpreyLA) are Los Angeles-based artists working collaboratively in sound and performance as Lucky Dragons, drawing and design as Sumi Ink Club, and an open field of other ideas as Glaciers of Nice.

Our aesthetic plays with ways of connecting high and low technology as a means towards fostering creative social equality — as well as the mystical power of everyday people, places, and things.

Bargello Trip Around the World

Sarah: As someone who is frequently on the road, I love to come home to my own bed, piled with an array of colorful handmade quilts. The visual allusions to DNA, pixelation, and outer space imagery that come together in this quilt are truly mind-blowing. What could be better than curling up to read under this techno-color quilt aptly named "Trip Around the World"? I am deeply envious of anyone with a quilt like this. By Quiltsbybarb, $350.

View Item | View Shop

To ready the complete story, visit Etsy.

It's Time to Vote again!

2009-04-06T05:36:00.000-07:00

This time for the EtsyBABY Story Book Challenge!

Here's the email I received regarding this fun April challenge:

Dear EtsyBABY members,
It's challenge time! We want you to tell us a story using your favorite crafting medium!
You may list as many as you want but only 1 entry will be eligible for the poll. The winner will get official bragging rights,lol.

Here are the following details to participate in the Story Time Challenge:

A. Design an item to be listed in your shop that tells/interprets an original or classic or modern story.

B. All Items should be listed by the 1st of April.

C. Include in the title listing : EtsyBABY Story Time Team Challenge. Write in either the title or the listing body what the name of the book or story is...

D. Add the following tag to the listing: "EBST"

E. A poll to vote for your favorite "EtsyBABY Story Time" item will be available on April 4th and will end on April 30th.
All Etsybaby members can vote just once.

F: The use of licensed materials (ie Disney, Olivia, Dick and Jane) is prohibited

Please take the opportunity to use this for a treasury and to further promote the team and the challenge.

Thanks and GOOD LUCK!
Anna - EtsyBABY Moderator
Jen - EtsyBABY Team Leader

AND NOW here are the entries for this month's challenge! Not quite as many as the Spring Fling Challenge but some amazing work was done!

I will start out the 'show' of the entries with my own..."Patchwork Corduroy Quilt."
This quilt was inspired by the book 'Corduroy' by Don Freeman for the EtsyBABY Story Time Team Challenge.A patchwork blue, green and brown base make up the main part of the quilt. Light blue faux bois fabric borders this patchwork. 'Corduroy' is made from brown suede and some upcycled cordoroy's. Black buttons make up his eyes and two green buttons are for his overalls (one is 'lost' in the quilt). It is perfect for a little boy or girl...they will love the different textures! The buttons are securely sewn on using extra strong thread (quilting thread). I quilted a random pattern throughout the quilt and appliqued the bear on. My signature fancy stitch border is also quilted on.

TadpoleCreations enter her "The Little Mermaid Lap Tee or Onesie".

The TrendyTot entered 'Elmer, the Patchwork Elephant Long Sleeve T-shirt' into the challenge.

AmyRoseDesigns entered a Captain Underpants Super Hero Cape into the Challenge!

LemonDropBaby created this 'Blue Whale' onesie:

Baby Boots - Little Red Riding Hood were created by Charliemac1000.

Daisy Creek created this: A Bad Case of the Stripes Fun, Twirly Dress and Book Set for the team challenge:

ImogensGarden created Alexander a Waldorf-inspired doll for the etsyBABY Story Book Challenge.

LuLusWoobies was inspired by Dr. Suess' Fox in Sox!

AlamodeFabric made a Giving Tree Wall Art for her challenge entry.

Love Forever Wall Hanging and Photo Frame is LYIS's entry into the challenge.

New Girls Boutique CIRCUS Merry-Go-Round Pants Set Peasant Petal Tie Top and Ruffle Pants was made by RozzisSweetPeas

ZadyBall created this Where The Wild Things Are - Monster -

MiniMonster Alice in Wonderland

CandyStickLane The Hat Gift Set

BloomHillBaby Cow Over Moon Baby Bib

TweedleBee's The Little Red Hen -- Plush Toy or Pillow with Jingle Bells

ButterflyDesign's Butterfly Design Cotton Pinkalicious Cupcake Hat and Book

And that concludes the entry for this month's challenge! I hope you take a few minutes to go to to http://shopetsybaby.com/StoryTime and vote for your favorite entry!

EtsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge

2009-03-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I just wanted to share with everyone that I WON the etsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge! Thank you for all of your support :) I just found out today and it was pretty exciting news...over 500 people voted on 39 different entries! I win a free week of advertising on the etsybaby site :)

~Kim

http://shopetsybaby.com/SpringFling2009

'In the Jungle' Quilt - Made by Diane, Quilted by Barb

2009-03-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

In my January 7th blog on Kim's Crafty Apple, Welcome to the Jungle, I started to talk about the amazing quilt that my mother-in-law made for my first born, Cedi. I am now taking the time to show you, in detail, the incredible work that my mother-in-law, Diane, did with the construction of the quilt and the amazing job that my aunt-in-law, Barb, did on the quilting.

A significant portion of the fabric in this quilt was hand-dyed by my mother-in-law. We will be having a hand-dying workshop on June 2oth - go to http://www.lapaceksorchard.com/ to sign you and a friend up today!

The creatures on the quilt were appliqued on and then quilted with amazing texture. The combined effort creates an almost three-dimensional look.

If you look at the picture above and below this paragraph you can see that Barb even quilted Cedi's name (Cedi Lapacek) into the background...how amazing is that!

Diane chose to do a crazy quilted border...using fabulous stitching patterns at different seams and a variety of fabulous thread. You can literally spend HOURS and HOURS looking at this quilt and see something each time.

When looking through the pictures, try to see how many different animals and flowers, and other unique patterns that Barb quilted into the background...

And just a few final close up pictures of this incredible quilt.

I would love to hear what your favorite part of this amazing quilt is!

Sun Prairie Heritage Quilters Quilt Show - Sun Prairie

2009-03-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

I just got back from visiting my quilts at the Sun Prairie Heritage Quilters Quilt Show! It was really fun to see my work hanging for everyone to admire (or not...). Here are some pictures from the show...

Joanne Reinhold from http://www.quiltingpathways.com/ was kind enough to take these pictures of me in front of my quilt! Her friend made her take the first one twice because, "she wasn't showing enough of the quilt"! Hilarious! Here's my Tutorial? for Woven Wonder that was posted on Quilting Gallery. You can also look at this blog post to read about the story behind it.

Here are some more of the quilts you can see if you go visit the show in the next few days:

More on Barb's Etsy Site!

2009-03-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, the rumors you heard are true...there are tons of new quilts, bags, patterns and signs up on Barb's Etsy Site! I know, how exciting!? I'll be giving a brief description of the newest listings...for more details or to purchase one for yourself please visit Barb's etsy site at http://www.quiltsbybarb.etsy.com/.

The first quilt I'm going to talk about is ...Flower Power. This quilt is just fabulous...it is a mixture of bright and colorful flannels, brown toned flannels and fun, whimsical teapot printed commercial cotton...what a fabulous combination!

The next one to your right is called the 'Mill Street Mystery Quilt'. Barb put this together for one of her past fall weekend retreats. I actually made one of these myself. It was a really fun project with fabulous results! If you never have put together a mystery quilt before I definitely recommend it. Initially you are told the types of fabrics you need (lights vs darks, etc.) and then you are given a new set of instructions each step of the way. The fabulous part is you don't know what you're making until you're almost done...that's the mystery!

Yes, Barb made the quilt your are seeing to the left...isn't it absolutely gorgeous!? Bargello Trip Around the World has caught many people's eyes and has had 689 views since it's initial listing on February 14th. If you love this quilt I wouldn't wait too long to snatch it up!

If you are always cold in the car the Cozy Car Lap Quilt is perfect for you! I know when I was younger my parents always had it so cold while driving and I would regret it if I forgot to grab a blanket for the journey. This quilt is perfect for keeping you warm with it's mixture of fleece and corduroy!

The quilt to the left is a True Miniature Rag Quilt and was made on a reduced scale of 4:1. It's gorgeous!

Barb used a combination of recycled clothing to create this fabulous Red and Black Upcycled Purse. This would go perfecting with your 'LBD' (little black dress) or even with jeans and a nice shirt!

Looking for something fabulous for your wall? Well, look no farther! Flash of Fire is absolutely stunning with it's convergence background and then layering of fabrics to create a fire look. To finish off the look, gold beads embellish the flames! And of course...the quilting is amazing!

Another beautiful lap quilt to cozy up and read a book with would be Barb's Rainbow Rail Fence. All the fabric was hand-dyed and I feel that it almost has a 'suede-y' look. It is a classic, one-of-a-kind quilt.

Today I've highlighted a few of Barb's newest listings in her etsy shop. I hope you decide to go and look and see what else she has to offer. I think when she returns from her trip to Mexico, a few more items may be going up as well. I'll keep you posted! Have a great weekend!

2000 Quilt Retreat Extra Day

2009-03-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

The extra day at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend is a go. We have enough signed up.

This is just a reminder that the cost of the extra day is $25 if paid in full by April 1, 2009. After April 1, 2009, the price for the extra sewing time is $35. You may either send me a check at Quilts by Barb, 421 Mill St, Bloomington, WI 53804 or go to 2009 Quilt Retreat and at the bottom of the page there is a link to pay by credit card.

Yes, we still have openings for the 2009 Retreat.

Questions? Email me at Quiltsbybarb@tds.net or call me at608-994-2821.

We would love to have you join us.

Kim's Crafty Apple GIVEAWAY!

2009-03-10T09:45:00.001-07:00

The blog "New to this Whole Mommy Thing" has graciously done a feature on my shop and is including a giveaway of one of my fabulous pairs of earrings! Make sure you check it out and enter to win a fabulous pair!

http://stepmomextraordinaire.blogspot.com/2009/03/kims-crafty-apple-giveaway.html

Vote for your FAVORITE EtsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge Item!

2009-03-04T06:25:00.001-08:00

I recieved this email today and it solved my dilemma on what to write on my blog today!:

Good Morning EtsyBABY!!!

Today's the BIG DAY!!! It's time to cast your vote! The surprise is that now there will be 2 winners of the Spring Fling Challenge! We will vote as a team here in our forum: http://shopetsybaby.com/etsybabyforum/index.php?topic=696.0

AND now we can spread the word and have the PUBLIC participate in this event too! The winner of the PUBLIC Poll and our PRIVATE poll will each receive FREE EtsyBABY Ad Space!!!! Voting closes on both polls on March 30th!

... refer everyone to this link where they can vote! (only one vote per person, and please do not vote for yourself!, lol) http://shopetsybaby.com/SpringFling2009

I hope everyone had a great experience with our 1st team challenge! Good Luck!!!

Jen
EtsyBABY Team Leader
GoldtoneDesigns

Here is a list to all THIRTY-EIGHT Entries (in no particular order)!

This is my entry for the 2009 EtsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge. I had the brighter Spring Flowers Quilt entered at first, but then I somehow managed to find the time to make this. I just love the pastels and the contrast in colors. I have decided to make a series of Spring Flower's Quilts. This one is called 'Spring Flowers - Pastels'. Next on the list is 'Spring Flowers - Retro.'

Make sure to vote for your favorite! http://shopetsybaby.com/SpringFling2009

Whirlygig Tabletopper

2009-03-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

I took the basic Whirlygig block from the Easy Bias Covered Curves book, simplified it, made it LOTS bigger and came up with this fun little quilt. I think it'll make a great tabletopper for a round table. And, once again, it went together really fast. The most difficult part was matching all those seams in the middle, but I decided it really needed a circle there for a flower center anyway.

Now that my taxes have been filed, maybe I'll get t0 the next project a little faster. Stay tuned...

Winter Dyeing Day with Kim and Diane!

2009-02-28T14:38:00.000-08:00

On Monday, February 23rd, Diane and I decided to do some fabric dyeing. I have a custom order for seven different shirts/tanks/rompers for one family and I was going to fill that order. As I was going through our white clothing inventory I discovered that I was ONE large t-shirt short…so, it turned out into a ‘just for fun’ dyeing day.

I am trying to increase my fabric stash because I have all the ideas for art quilts in my mind and need to have a wide variety of colors for these projects. Since I own/operate an apple orchard my first art quilt is probably going to be some sort of orchard image which means I need lots of different browns, greens and reds. That was my plan along with a few bins of fun! I have included a picture of one of my fun pins here! Don’t worry I’ll make sure to take a few ‘after’ pictures of the fabric and post them later so you can see what that bin made!

Dyeing in the middle of winter is nowhere near the fun as dyeing in the summer. It’s also a lot more difficult to ‘see’ what you have done. But, it’s still fun and I really enjoy dyeing. My favorite part of it is that I go into it with an extremely laid back attitude. All the bottles of dyes just sit in front of me and I just mix a little of this and a little of that and go for it! I have a fairly decent knowledge of what colors I’m going to achieve by mixing certain things but I never know EXACTLY how it’s going to turn out or the pattern it’s going to make on the fabric.

Diane and I have gotten much more efficient in dyeing as well. We used to put each item in its own bucket or bin….we have learned that we can get a fairly decent variety by putting many fabrics in one bin. I think I had six bins that I dyed that day and still a few individual buckets. I was dyeing hats and I was being a bit picky that had a certain ‘look’ about them.

I was almost about to tell you our process of dyeing (what we do first, then next and to finish it up) but I realized that’s why you are going to sign up for our 2009 Summer Dyeing Workshop on June 20th! We will teach you the ‘formula’s’ for dyeing in the morning and then teach you the more creative side of dyeing.

One thing I will say is that HEAT is extremely important in our dyeing process…which can be hard to come by in a cold basement in February. My husband has built us special insulated box that hooks up to our outdoor woodstove. Pex tubing coils around on the inside of this box and super hot water flows through it to heat up our fabric. It fits LOTS and LOTS of bins and buckets! It is amazing!

Diane gave me a quick ‘sneak peek’ at our fabrics yesterday and I am so excited to start ironing! (Trust me…that is HUGE for me to say…I HATE to iron, but that’s how you can really see just how amazing your fabrics are). One washout is complete…lots more to go but hopefully I’ll be able to post some end result pictures next week!

STAY TUNED…

Cora’s Playground: Etsy Benefit Sale

2009-02-25T07:51:00.001-08:00

A little girl named Cora, who was just over a week younger than my baby Capri, passed away recently from cancer. To read more about her story please go to:

http://themcclenahans.blogspot.com

AND

http://corapaige.blogspot.com

Many etsian sellers have decided to sell specific items whose profit will go directly towards a playground in Cora’s name. I could not hear this story and see pictures of this family and not imagine what I would hope other’s would do if I where in this situation. I have chosen five adorable onesies to donate their proceeds to this amazing cause.

Snails & Butterflies

Starry Dusk

Cotton Candy

Beautiful Rose

Horizon

100% of all proceeds from these listings goes directly to:
CORA PAIGE PLAYGROUND FUND

To find links to more shops participating in this fundraiser please go to:

http://thesefavoritethings.blogspot.com/2007/01/coras-playground-etsy-benefit-sale.html

Thank you.

I Booked My Room for the 2009 Quilt Retreat by Quilts By Barb!

2009-02-17T07:23:00.000-08:00

and it was super easy! (My two-night booking cost was just under $80/night and that included taxes!)

Here's the info:

Do you live within driving distance of the retreat? You are not required to stay at the hotel to participate. We would love to have you!

Accommodations: Rooms are available at the connecting Baymont Inn and Suites The cost of the room is approximately $80. This is for one to four people. Contact the hotel directly at 608-762-6900 to make room reservations. Tell them you will be at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend with Quilts by Barb to receive this rate.

Rooms may be booked anytime after December 1, 2008. All rooms are available on a first come, first served basis. The $80 rate is good for rooms booked before October 1, 2009.

If you are interested in sharing a room, email us at rooms@Quiltsbybarb.com. We will try to connect you with others who are also interested in sharing rooms.

preparing a quilt backing from 120" wide fabric

2009-02-16T06:21:00.000-08:00

As a machine quilter, I get a lot of quilt backings that are very good and some that aren't quite so good.

Why is a good quilt backing necessary for a quilt?

A good quilt backing makes the quilt lay flat and square when finished. If you are going to hang your quilt on a wall or in a quilt show, this is even more important.

How much larger than the quilt top should my backing be?

I ask for my quilt backings to be 6 inches larger than the quilt top. If your quilt is 50 inches by 70 inches, a quilt back that is 56 inches by 76 inches works best. If you leave your quilt backing 56 inches by 90 inches, I can use it BUT it is harder to get that perfect tension on your quilt backing You are doing your machine quilter a favor by finishing your quilt backing and making it the proper size.

Today I am going to just talk about the wide quilt backings purchased from quilt stores. I will address backings made from 45 inch side fabrics later.

Why should I tear my backing instead of just leaving the edge like I got it from the quilt store when I bought it?

When you buy the 120 inch wide at the quilt store, the edge is NEVER straight and square. When a quilter, machine or hand quilter, tries to put this on the quilt machine or frame, it is very uneven and will not lay flat. This will mean possible puckers in the backing and your quilt will not be flat when finished.

What do you suggest doing with the wide quilt backing from the store to prepare the quilt back?

First, measure your quilt top. For example the quilt is 75 inches by 90 inches. Your wide quilt backing is 120 inches wide.

Tear the non salvage edge of your backing until you get a strip that will tear all away across the width of the backing. You will be surprised how much off grain the wide backing actually is! I suggest purchasing an extra 1/2 yard when purchasing this fabric. You may loose that much by the time you square both ends of the fabric.

Next measure across the width from one salvage side toward the other salvage until you are at 81 inches. That is the 75 inch width of your quilt plus the extra 6 inches. TEAR at this mark down the length of your backing. This tear will be parallel to the salvage.

Set the narrow piece you tore off aside. Now measure down the salvage that is still attached to the piece of backing that you will be using 96 inches. That is 90 inches plus the additional 6 inches. TEAR ACROSS your backing piece perpendicular to the salvage. You can leave the one salvage piece on the backing. It will be used to pin your backing to the quilting machine or quilt frame.

What is the last step in preparing my backing?

PRESS the backing. When you get this wide backing off the bolt, it has very heavy creases that must be removed in order to avoid small creases on the back of your quilt. Use spray starch or steam to remove this heavy crease.

Do I need to preshrink my backing fabric?

I don't preshrink any of my fabric. There are a lot of different thoughts on this; I don't preshrink, others do.

Wasn't that easy? It takes a very small time to prepare a perfect quilt backing and it makes a much better quilt when finished.

Happy quilting!

Barb

Diane's 2008 Retreat Quilt

2009-02-15T09:43:00.001-08:00

Got this picture (see more pictures on my website, www.Quiltsbybarb.com) and I wanted to share her story with you.

This is what Diane wrote to me:

"Barb - I finished my quilt from the retreat but I won't have it to show at the next retreat since I gave it as a comfort quilt to a friend of my son.

His friend was diagnosed with a brain tumor (grade 3 - fast growing) in the last month. I made it so his friends and family could sign it in the light areas of the quilt and even the back when they visit him. As you can see the backing was made from left over fabric. I even made a cover/pillowcase for the quilt from leftover fabric. I quilted it on my domestic machine.

The label reads as follows:

Chris - This quilt is just like you...one of a kind!

Wrap this quilt around you and remember all of our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Diane Kettleson - Kirk's mom
February 2009
Tumbling Blocks"

Great job, Diane, and our prayers are with Chris. Aren't quilts the best!

Barb

Quilts By Barb Etsy Shop

2009-02-13T09:43:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to share some wonderful news with you! I have been helping Barb set up her very own etsy shop. Yes, you can now view all the amazing quilts that Barb makes herself and easily purchase them.

There are currently seven items listed in her shop. Over the next few days and weeks we will be listing even more things.

This process has been really exciting for me as well. I've seen some of the things she's made but every time she sends something to me to photograph and list I am pleasantly surprised! One of my favorites is her Hand-Dyed Wonder Convergence Wall Hanging. I think it is absolutely gorgeous and so fun to look at...I see something new and different each time!

I am also absolutely in LOVE with her minky blankets! The fabric is just so adorable and the blankets are so thick and cozy! I secretly want one for me but I already have a ridiculous number of blankets. These would be so wonderful to just cuddle up in and read a book or to wrap your little girl in!

And then there is the 'Wizard of Oz' panel quilt. For you Dorothy lovers...here's the quilt for you. It's made of gorgeous panels that have scenes from the classic movie and then is quilted in a wonderful maze pattern that reminds me of the yellow brick road!

Diane and Barb attended a workshop taught by Ricky Tims and have made some amazing wall hangings and quilts using the convergence method. Three of Barb's convergence wall hangings are listed right now, but hopefully I will get two blankets that she made listed as well soon...they are absolutely stunning! I can't wait to list them!

One quilting book is currently listed in the shop right now. More books and patterns are coming soon!

Make sure to check out Barb's etsy site and enjoy the beautiful items that are listed! Be sure to check back often to see all the new creations!

2009-02-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

Glad to see so many finished projects from last year's retreat! These are photos of my Stone Cottage quilt. Decided to do a plain border since it was so big and had a lot going on with all the different fabrics. Barb did a really nice pebble pattern for the quilting which was the perfect compliment to all the batiks.

Jean has her quilt top done

2009-02-12T05:51:00.001-08:00

I got another picture of a finished quilt top from the 2008 Retreat. Don't you just love it??

The border just really makes the quilt.

Thanks, Jean, for the picture.

Barb

2009 Dyeing Day Workshop! SIGN UP NOW!

2009-02-11T05:48:00.001-08:00

Yup! It's time to get ready for the 2009 Summer Dyeing Workshop Sponsored by Quilts By Barb!

Once again it will be held a Lapacek's Orchard in Poynette, WI. Hopefully we will have a wonderful and gorgeous day for dyeing and will be able to do it out in the sun and on the lawn...otherwise we'll be in the spacious shed.

All of the details on the dying day can be found at: http://merr.com/users/lapacek/dyeing_day.htm or just go to http://www.lapaceksorchard.com/ and click on the '2009 summer dyeing workshop' link.

I'm going to use this blog to tell you a little bit about how the day actually goes, show you examples of things you can accomplish in one day, post pictures of quilts we have made from our hand-dyed fabrics, give you ideas for clothing dyeing options, and hopefully we'll hear from some people that have attended the workshop in the past!

Today I'll tell you about what you can expect in the morning (I'm hoping Diane will comment to let me know if I am accurate or forgetting something).

When you arrive at the orchard you will sign in and pick up your 'kit' for the day. We will have a small 'shop' set up with more pfd fabric, articles of clothing, dyeing supplies for you to take home, etc, that you will be able to look through as you eat your muffin or donut (not sure what we'll have just yet...I'll keep you posted).

Once everyone arrives we do a quick explanation of the day, show you examples of what you're going to dye, and what you can make with the fabric that you dye once it's completed.

We start the day off by teaching the color family technique. We like to have people that have never dyed before to start with this because it teaches some basic techniques and creates some fabulous fabric. One thing I want to stress about this workshop is that nothing is set in stone...you can participate in whatever lessons you want. One of us will be able to help you if you would like to try something different or have a plan as to what you want to dye.

Tune in for more info on the upcoming workshop next week!

Remember to check out the website for more details! http://merr.com/users/lapacek/dyeing_day.htm

Two more quilts from 2008 retreat

2009-02-10T11:01:00.001-08:00

Sue sent me these pictures this morning. Top picture is Sue with her Tumbling Logs quilt. Yes, again it is a log cabin variation. Judy Martin's Log Cabin Quilt Book is the greatest.

At the left, bottom, is Jean with her log cabin quilt. This is a variation of the log cabin quilts in the book.

If you are interested in purchasing Judy Martin's Log Cabin Quilt Book, it is for sale in My web store for $25.00 including postage.

Christine's Log Cabin

2009-02-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

Check out Christine's Log Cabin Quilt from the 2008 Quilt Retreat Weekend. It is put together as a log cabin BUT looks like a Double Wedding Ring. This quilt is from Judy Martin's Log Cabin book.

The quilt is custom machine quilted by Quilts by Barb. All participants of the Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekends receive a 10% discount on their retreat quilt.

Click on the picture to see more pictures on my website.

Barb

Whirling Spirals

2009-02-09T13:15:00.001-08:00

This is the second project I made from the Easy Bias-Covered Curves book. My fabric choices have a much "calmer" feel than the sample quilts in the book. I used some of my hand dyes with a fossil fern background and a striped batik. I'm planning to cut the corners off diagonally to make this 8 sided and use it for a table topper on a round table.

I sent this off to Barb to be quilted because I figure she'll put something really cool in all that background.

This design could easily be upsized to make a lap or bed sized quilt. The size of the blocks can be made as large or small as you like to fit the size you want.

Diane

Massage Practitioner for retreat

2009-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

Dawn Hampton, a Massage Practitioner from Inner Harmony, Lancaster, Wisconsin, will be joining us at the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend.

Dawn will be offering total body massages, pedicures and foot massage in her own private room. What a great way to relax after hours of sewing!

A byline on Dawn's business card: "Take great care of your inner self - you deserve it."

Retreat Projects

2009-01-28T17:38:00.000-08:00

I received my Easy Bias-Covered Curves book and was immediately intrigued. All those fun curvy designs. Could they really be that easy?

Those of you who have been to past retreats sponsored by Quilts By Barb know that I usually make a nice BIG quilt. After reading through the book, I decided to make a series of small quilts so I could try lots of different designs and learn more about the techniques in the book.

So I opened the book to the first block pattern and came up with this design. It looks alot like the get started project using this block, but I made it lots bigger with less curves. It went together REALLY fast and I quilted it on my home machine, making simple curves with my walking foot. I haven't put a binding on it yet, and I'm still thinking about embellishing it. Maybe some fabric circles or some fibers.....So it's hanging on my design wall while I wait for it to tell me what's next.

And what I've learned already is that this technique is FUN!!! Making bias tape is quick and easy with the bias makers, and adds an extra design element to the curves. Even a beginner can easily succeed and your project will look much more difficult than it really is.

Now, on to the next project.....

Diane

Thanks and welcome to Kim!

2009-01-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

I want to introduce you to Kim Lapacek. She is going to be helping me out with computer work and other odd jobs getting ready for my retreat. Many of you will remember Kim from previous retreats.

Kim and and Jared are part owners of Lapacek's Orchard, with Diane and Frank. Kim loves quilting and many other types of crafts. She hand dyes a lot of clothing items for young children and her hand made jewelry is beautiful. Check out Kim's Etsy site, Kim's Crafty Apple to see and purchase any of Kim's wares.

Welcome, Kim!

2008 retreat pictures

2009-01-26T10:50:00.000-08:00

I finally did it!! The slideshow on the right hand side are action pictures from our 2008 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. The retreat was at Camp Wawbeek Easter Seals Camp in Wisconsin Dells. If you would like to see a larger picture of any picture, just click on it and it will be enlarged.

If you participated in the 2008 retreat and have pictures, I would love to add them. I have more pictures I will be adding shortly.

Happy quilting and hope to see you in Belmont in 2009!

Barb

2008 retreat pictures

2009-01-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

You will see a slide show of pictures on the right hand side of my blog. Yes, they are labeled as 2008 Retreat BUT no, they are not from the retreat. I am working on it and hope to have this corrected soon. I am a quilter, not a computer guru!

Barb

Easy Bias-Covered Curves - Our project book for the weekend

2009-01-21T12:50:00.000-08:00

We have selected the book Easy Bias-Covered Curves by Wendy Hill as our instruction book for the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend. This book is published by CT Publishing and the following is their description about the book:

Free-Wheeling Fun with Easy-Sew Circles and Curves

• No curved-seam piecing, no raw edges, no stress!
• Fabric bias strips are the key to beautifully-finished curves
• Great for quilters at every level-beginners love the simple technique, and experienced quilters can design their own variations
• Match fabrics for a subtle look, or use contrasting bias for a vivid design element

These artful quilts are breathtaking to look at, and surprisingly easy to make! Fabric bias covers raw fabric edges in a quick, accurate technique. Wendy introduces simple blocks plus lots of variations and sample quilts. Detailed illustrations follow for a project quilt-or create your own.

If you would like to take a closer look as the inside of the book, click on Look Inside.

Diane Lapacek will be teaching from this book and has been working on samples. She is very excited about the technique and says she really enjoys it. She will be posting updates and pictures about the book and projects she has made from the book.

Quilts by Barb - News from Barb

2012 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

Baffled In Belmont – Step 1 – Fabric!

A mystery created by Diane Lapacek for the 2011 Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend held in Belmont, WI.

Step 1: Fabric Selection

Celebrate Christmas

Mystery Monday – Finally Finished!

Count Down to the Quilts By Barb Quilt Retreat – Leaving TOMORROW!

Count Down to the Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat – 3 days

Count Down to the Quilts by Barb Quilt Retreat – 4 days

Crazy Nine Patch Class

An Interview with Tisha Sandberg – Instructor of the Papercraft/Scrapbooking Portion of the QuiltsbyBarb Getaway Weekend

As well as being able to learn some fantastic new quilting projects on the 2010 QuiltsbyBarb Getaway Weekend you will also have an opportunity to learn from an artist on some Papercraft/Scrapbooking techniques.

What will we be doing?

projects

other instructional information ***Information will be presented on photo editing/altering, printing your own papers, using materials you won't find in a scrapbook store and much, much more. There'll be plenty of time for you to share your own creative ideas as well. So come and join us!

News from Quilting and Sewing Expo in Oshkosh, WI

International Quilt Festival - Chicago

Who’s Got You All in Stitches?

Update on Blog

QuiltsbyBarb on Etsy’s Front Page!

Kim’s Mystery Retreat Quilt

Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend 2005

Team EtsyBABY Valentine’s Day Challenge – the CONTENDORS

Mystery Quilt

Quilts By Barb on the Front Page!

Mystery Quilt at 2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

Remember When...........

Remember when -

Remember when -

Mystery Monday - The Final Step in A Judy Hopkins Mystery

American Jane Quilt Series

Mystery Monday – Step 7

2010 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend

Mystery Monday – Step 6

Show and Tell – The Yard that Keeps on Going….

Mystery Monday – Step 5 of a Golden Oldie

Mystery Monday – Step 4 of the Golden Oldie

Mystery Monday – Step 3 of the Golden Oldie

Show and Tell - Miscellaneous

Mystery Monday – Step 2 of the Golden Oldie

My Curvilicious Project and others…

Show and Tell – Past Years’ Retreat Projects and other Show and Tell

Mystery Monday – STEP ONE

2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend and The Christmas Store and Quilt Shop

Preparing for the 2009 Quilt Retreat Getaway Weekend sponsored by Quilts by Barb

A Treasury in Preparation for a FABULOUS Retreat Weekend!

Retreat Mini Project

QuiltsbyBarb made ETSY Front Page Last Night!

QuiltsbyBarb made ETSY Front Page Last Night!

It's a Mystery to Me

What Can I make with Dyed Fabrics? (Quilts)

Where's the Point?

Quiltsy Etsy Street Team Presents: May Daze!

It's Time to Vote Again! Team etsyBABY Cinco de Mayo Challenge

News from Kim's Crafty Apple

Remember the Scrappy Pineapple?

Embellishments

Quilts by Barb in the news...................

It's Time to Vote again!

EtsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge

'In the Jungle' Quilt - Made by Diane, Quilted by Barb

Sun Prairie Heritage Quilters Quilt Show - Sun Prairie

More on Barb's Etsy Site!

2000 Quilt Retreat Extra Day

Kim's Crafty Apple GIVEAWAY!

Vote for your FAVORITE EtsyBABY Spring Fling Challenge Item!

Whirlygig Tabletopper

Winter Dyeing Day with Kim and Diane!

Cora’s Playground: Etsy Benefit Sale

I Booked My Room for the 2009 Quilt Retreat by Quilts By Barb!

preparing a quilt backing from 120" wide fabric

Diane's 2008 Retreat Quilt

Quilts By Barb Etsy Shop

Jean has her quilt top done

2009 Dyeing Day Workshop! SIGN UP NOW!

Two more quilts from 2008 retreat

Christine's Log Cabin

Whirling Spirals

Massage Practitioner for retreat