Pattern Reading

Today I spent several hours helping a fairly new quilter decipher a pattern she wanted to make for her Mother.  To say the least the directions were complicated and did not have all the steps one needed to do for success.  She was frustrated and I was soon on my way to frustration.  This isn't the first time I have come across this problem and I dare say I have also written some poor instructions for my patterns.  It happens.

When you buy a new pattern take the time to read all the way through it first to make sure you understand what it is you will be doing.  If there is a problem you will usually catch it in this first read through.  Put your piecing smarts in gear and ask if there is anything in the pattern that could be done a different or easier way-or just a way you like better.  If so write out how to accomplish the changes and if more or less fabric is needed.  I have found that if I cut out for one block and put it together I may find ways I want to attack it differently before I cut up all my fabric.  Once that is done and I am happy then I will cut my fabric and tackle as much chain piecing as I can and enjoy the process.

Following the author's directions took the two of us about 2 1/2 hours to complete one section.  I saw that I could accomplish the same thing with strip piecing and cutting on a forty five degree angle.  We made an additional four blocks in the next 30 minutes.  What an incredible timesaver.  She's happier and so am I.

Today is one of those picturesque beautiful fall days.  Loving it!  May you find joy in your day and remember to breathe deeply.

Dee

Bookends

This week started and ended quite lovely.  On Monday I traveled with a friend to a little shop about an hour from home.  It is only open by appointment and she had the most amazing fabrics, threads and ribbons for crazy quilting and embroidery. She was delightful and taught us a number of stitches and ribbon flowers and led us to the best ice cream shop I have been to in a long time.  The trip was amazingly energizing and it kept me going all week through teaching and my own projects I needed to complete.  On Friday, three friends and I took a trip to some of our favorite shops.  It was our own mini shop hop with lots of laughter and good food.  I highly recommend a week like the one I just had for everyone.

Life gets very busy and we don't always take a lot of time for ourselves.  There always seems to be cleaning, laundry and general household chores to do.  They don't go away-they just pile up.  Please do take time for your kids, spouse and friends.  It's good for your health and disposition.  Do something you love every day.  For me, it can be a walk with my husband, a phone call to my kids, taking 30 minutes to read a good novel, explore a new shop or doing something artsy.  What are the things that bring a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart?  Take the time and do it!

Happy Autumn,

Dee