A Straight Seam

Tiggy is growing up

2011-12-01T20:56:00.001-08:00

Tiggy at 10 weeks

Tiggy all grown up

It's been almost 6 months since my last post. Tight-my new kitty is 8 months old and doesn't look like a kitten anymore. In fact I think she was only little for like 3 weeks! She is 10 lbs now and looks like a full grown kitty. In case you didn't see or have forgotten here are her baby pics and her current pic.

I have been sewing & designing and have a sneak peek of the newest quilt that is getting photographed as I post this. This quilt which I call - Dinner in Paris, makes me just weak in the knees, hope you all love it too. As soon as the pictures get back from the fabulous photographer then I will post a full shot here on my blog.

Patterns will be available soon and as a holiday treat, you can preorder this pattern now on my website. I also have 2 other new ones which are listed on the website and are being printed. So there are some great choices for gift giving either to friends or yourself.

I am also working on a tutorial for my next post for a little gift bag. These are FAST and easy and can be made in any size. So check back for the tutorial in about a week.

Happy sewing to all and have a little eggnog for me.

Delightfully

Robin

Changes and additions....

2011-07-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay…you can take my picture off the back of milk cartons. I know that it has been a long dry spell. There have been changes going on for a couple of months now. I am sure you noticed the blog changes. I also changed my Twitter page. If you are interested in changing your blog, visit www.plumroselane.com , Sharon is amazing and she has some of the most beautiful themes as well as single backgrounds and other elements. Best of all??? Most all of her website items are free!

Did I say free? Yes I did. Free.

Also new on the home front..is Tiggy. Tiggy is my new kitten. She has actually been a part of the family since June 4^th. We adopted her from AFR. ARF got her from one of the local animal shelters and brought her to their facility. She was given an exam by a vet. They spade her and inserted a microchip. She was 10 weeks when she came home. It was love at first sight. Since I lost my cat last Oct it has been rather quiet and lifeless here. Nothing can take the place of your previous pets but new pets allow you to keep loving and receiving love. If you are thinking about getting a pet, visit the animal shelters or a rescue organization to save a life. Tiggy has taken up the mantle of quilt inspector and is becoming quite the expert.

I have also been busy doing 4 new quilts, 2 are done and 2 are still in progress. I hope to have patterns done on the 2 new ones in the next week. So do check back and see what we have come up with. I will post pictures next week.

The last week in July is a road trip to the Long Beach Quilt Show. I am excited and will get some pictures of the show for you to see. Until then…may your bobbins always be full.

Delightfully

Robin

seamsdelightful's photostream

2011-05-23T13:40:00.001-07:00

seamsdelightful's photostream on Flickr.

Sew and Sew Girls Mini Retreat by Seams Delightful Designs

Sew & Sew Girls Weekend

2011-05-23T11:41:00.001-07:00

I had a wonderful weekend and I hope each and every one of you did too. This last weekend we were suppose to go to a retreat but it was cancelled and my 2 friends and I were deeply disappointed. We all got to talking and decided we would have our own mini retreat. Well that started the plans in motion.
Saturday at 9:00am my 2 friends started showing up. After about 20 minutes of setup we all had our sewing machines humming and were well on our way to completing some of those UFO's we all have.

Mini Retreat

Before we knew it…our personal butler (most commonly known as my DH) showed up from the kitchen and placed a tray of heavenly appetizers…….. Bacon wrapped shrimp with pineapple. All I can say is OMG! Next a platter of meats, cheeses and crackers and all forms of yummy things arrived.

Drinks were readily available and the perfect finger snacks kept us fueled and satisfied so that we could continue to sew, cut, press and chat without any interruptions. Barbara had managed to cut and sew together a Turning Twenty and have the top completed! Before we knew it 5:00pm and rolled around and we picked our stations to have them ready for the next day. The ladies went home.
Sunday morning was a beautiful day just like Saturday had been and once again my gals began to arrive. We picked up where we left off and once again, the butler came out with bagels and cream cheese, sparkling apple cider in champagne glasses with a strawberry in each one, to start the day. Once we had some fuel in our bodies we all continued on with our UFO's. Stephanie was working on 3 quilts made from the Hawaiian shirts of a father that had passed away. The mother wanted each of the 3 children to have a quilt made of their Dad's shirts. What a huge project but one that touches the heart. Stephanie managed to get enough blocks made to make 1 whole quilt and partials for the other 2. She also made the small bags we had kits for as a retreat project. I was able to get binding sewn on 2 projects, made a table runner, and some placemats. I also finished my little bags and almost have a pincushion complete. It was a wonder weekend of friendship and sewing and we have decided to do it again! Stay tuned for information on the next one. We only have a limited space, so we won't be able to take too many so it will be first come…unless we get a response that dictates we find a larger place to hold it.

Here's to Quilting!
Robin, Stephanie, and Barbara

Suggestions and hot tips for venues are most welcome.
Check out the slide show on flickr

I hope your weekend was as wonderful as mine was….

Delightfully yours

Robin

When the baby is sick

2011-04-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

While sewing the other day, I decided to monogram the bags I was making. Since I had 6 to do I thought to let the machine embroider them to save time. And that is when it happened. "crunch...crunch..and then SNAP!. My heart sank. Oh no Baby is not suppose to go "SNAP...CRUNCH". Then the machine started to make jump stitches everywhere. I barely got the stop button pushed before it tried to put a stitch in the middle of the hoop frame. As with any computer, many times you can reset back if you reboot. It didn't help. To the phone and made an appointment to take my baby in for service and see what is wrong. Next morning my friend and helper Barbara & I were on the road early. Driving time is approx an hour and half to the "sewing hospital" - Rays Sewing Center in San Jose, CA. It is a long trip but well worth it as Ken and Lindsey are the best. They let me come in, get my machine serviced and I can take it home the same day. NOW THAT IS SERVICE.

Ray's Showroom

As we were driving down, I was imagining all kinds of horrid problems with my machine. The arm broke, a belt broke, there was a problem with the computer board. And the list goes on. When we arrived, the place was a bustle of activity. There were ladies in the classroom working on embroidery projects and ladies checking out new machines to purchase. Ken was his usual self, multi tasking by answering question on new machines and doing demos as well as servicing machines in the ~~hospital~~ service area. With precision hands and decades of experience, Ken had my baby running and purring again like she should be. No major problems, no horrific breaks, no big service bill. I am once again a happy gal and my baby is sewing like a dream. So if you need a service center, consider driving to Ray's Sewing Center. BTW - Ray's Sewing Center is named for Ken's father - Ray, who started the business, was inducted into the Sewing Hall of Fame and is now fixing machines in heaven.

Ladybug Quilts

2011-04-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

This week has been a blessing as I got to go to a (new) quilt shop. Ladybug Quilts is a shop in Manteca, CA, with new owners. What a great shop! When you walk in you are greeted by everyone! Staff and shoppers. The merchandising was eye candy and the gals have a great selection of fabrics to temp any taste. They have a nice intimate classroom and across from that is a room with a long arm machine. It is one of those shops where you feel like you've entered a friends home, the minute you step in the door. If you are in the area or if you are wanting to organize a trip..be sure to include this shop. You will not be disappointed. Best wishes ladies...you have a gem.

Delightfully
Robin

2011-04-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

Spent the other day going to local quilt shops that I don't get to go to very often. I say I am going to go more and get out more oftern and something always comes up. I have my own "honey-do" list from my DH. I really can't say no as he works nights and needs things done that require reagular business hours to complete. So much for that. My favorite stop was Thimblecreek. I had a wonderful time there. Roxie and Joe have a great selection of beautiful fabrics and I came home with new fabric to make my vintage quilt from.

Happly Halloween!

2010-10-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Pink Parfait

Fall is well underway here. The trees are turning beautiful colors and there is that crispness in the air. Last weekend was the local guild quilt show and it was a huge success. There were so many beautiful quilts this year. Those ladies have been very very busy. The diversity of quilts in the show was amazing. We were there and had a good time and met lots of friends and some new friends. I was afraid the weather would keep people away, as the weatherman said it was going to rain hard. Well it did rain and hard at times but it seems to have put everyone in the quilting mood. We enjoyed seeing everyone and walking the aisles and enjoying the talent and workmanship of the Delta Quilters. The show keeps getting better and better every year. Congratulations Delta Quilters Guild!

Sassy

I introduced some new patterns at the show and they were an overwhelming success. I have finished uploading the pictures and info to my website, so if you can’t find these new patterns in the local shops yet, you can find them on my website. They are just being shipped to distributors this week. I know you will love the new quilts. There is a baby quilt that I would love to have for me and a very girly quilt and a bright bold floral quilt for those that love large scale prints.

Baby Steps

My last post was a sad one for me; I lost my angel kitty of 18 years. I am keeping busy and have been thinking about getting a new baby. Thank you to those that send me comforting comments. I so appreciate all the kind thoughts you sent me. It has been decades since my house was without a “fur baby”. I haven’t decided what kind of “fur baby” to get yet. I think that will depend on what kind if baby most needs some love and a home. Animal Shelters are full of little bundles of love. When I get a new one I will let all of you know.

Meanwhile, I am getting ready for Tricks and Treats. As you all know this is my favorite time of year. And I am back at the sketch pad working on some new designs. Hope you all have a perfectly spooky Halloween! It is now time to finish those Christmas gifts and quilts. Christmas will be here before we know it. It is only 2 months away! I am uploading a free wine bag pattern that will make a perfect wrapping for a hostess gift if you are in charge of bringing the wine or the sparkling cider. Simple and economical to make, you will have it completed in an hour! I will be back soon with pictures of new ideas.

Robin

My Familiar

2010-10-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

Webster says a “Familiar is: one that is familiar; especially: an intimate associate: companion

: a spirit often embodied in an animal and held to attend and serve or guard a person

My “familiar” left this plane yesterday. The loss right now is indescribable. Those of you that have a cat know what I mean. After 18 ½ years, I woke up this morning without my “BOO”. My pet name for Harri, my cat. She was born in my closet. Her mother feral adopted me. She was alone and that little girl was homeless and pregnant. She came looking for food and found a safe place to live where she received love and protection also. A few weeks later, Harri was born. She was only the size of a small fuss ball. The kids named her. Her markings were exactly like her mother, with one exception. She had a black stripe down her nose. Her mother had a gold stripe. Mom and daughter was tortoise colored. Deep browns and golds. When she and her sister snuggled to their mother to eat...you couldn’t tell where mommy ended and babies began. Mommy left us some 8 years ago now.

It is a natural cycle of life, but that is little consolation right now. All I know is that there is a hole in my heart. I miss her kisses, her rubbing her face on mine, and her “screaming” at me. She was a talker. If she didn’t get what she wanted, when she wanted it she got louder and louder and louder until you had to perform whatever deed she wanted.

The return for the bowls of food, the endless openings of the door so she could go out and lay in the sun, and cat box changes and scooping was pure love. Unassuming and unconditional. Time will allow this void to be adjusted to level that is tolerable. The short time our pets are with us is precious. Hug your babies today and when they are making you nuts, remember a day will come when you will wish that annoyance back.

It's the Big Day

2010-10-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

Morning quilty peeps... I got up very early to make sure there were no 11th hour entries. HAHA.. giveaway ended at 12:01am today. And I am happy to report...WENDY won!

So Wendy..send me an email... robin@seamsdelightfuldesigns.com with your address and if you would like 6 FQs OR The Boo Kitty Handbag fabric kit and BK Handbag pattern. Once I get your mailing address I will ship your prize out right away. I have been doing some temp work this week for a friend of mine who needed some time away from work. It was fun and definitely something different for me. Made me appreciate the time I have to work in the studio. I am getting ready to hammer out the details for a quilting retreat in the mountains for next spring. Great cabin, near a lake, and quilt shop, fresh air and quilting, quilting quilting. Watch the website for details. I can't wait. I am really looking forward to this. Well I know this is short but it's my last day as a "temp" so I need to take care of that so I can get back to designing and making Xmas gifts. I will be back soon.. THANK YOU girls for entering in my giveaway! I will try and have another one soon.

Hugs to all, CONGRATS WENDY!

Robin

2010-09-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

2 more days until I draw a winner from the random number generator for the giveaway. 2 more days to get your entry in. You can win either the 6 FQs or the fabric kit and pattern for the Boo Kitty Handbag. Your choice. It is also 2 more days until the start of the Halloween season. (At least it is the start for us Halloween aficionados. You know who you are...you crazy people who decorate to the max, have more Halloween stuff than Christmas, dress up to hand out candy to the kids ( which is the highlight of my holiday) and give Halloween gifts to my friends. I usually have a Halloween party every year for my quilty girls. It is a small affair 6 or so. We don't dress in costume but we wear hats! I make "witches brew" and bottle it in appropriate bottles complete with spooky labels, we have frightful treats and eats, have ghoulish presents and generally have a wonderful time just having fun.
I did get my latest Halloween quilt done finally and it is itching to make it on my bed. Temperatures are still in the triple digits so actually using the quilt won't be necessary, but having it on my bed will make me smile. My husband is very tolerant of this quirky obsession of mine. He's very tolerant of the webs that cover things, crows that inhabit our house and the animated dolls and musical decorations that find their way out of the storage bin. He now enjoys Halloween like he never use to. Some years back he thought the whole thing was silly and for children. Now I have to fight him to hand out candy on Halloween.
Now for you Mom's that make your little darlings costumes, have you tried a ruffler foot? What a fun foot. If you love the look of ruffles on your little ones clothes- you can create that in a SNAP! Spruce up an off the rack outfit with a little bit of ruffle. How about putting a ruffle on the edge of your quilt instead of binding it? The simplest and most inexpensive way to liven up a room is to replace the throw pillows. Add a ruffle to a lamp shade in your bedroom for that romantic look. Make gifts for the holidays by embellishing tea towels with ruffles. Add a couple of napkins and you have a great hostess gift. You can also make pleats with the ruffler. It takes no time to learn how to use it and seriously you can make ruffles for the hem of a pair of jeans in less than 2 minutes! I am working on a tutorial on using the ruffler. So stay tuned. If you don't have one, check out your local machine dealer and get one for your machine. Well I am off to start the day and get as much done as I can. Remember 48 hours left for the giveaway!

Hugs to all
Robin

Piles of Leaves

2010-09-21T08:26:00.000-07:00

It’s the last day of summer. I have always thought that the air smells different and the sky changes color. The whole world gets a bit more golden. There is a faint smell of musty leaves that are starting dying. I have many great memories of fall as a child. It is my favorite time of year. The leaves on the trees turn so many shades of gold and red. Raking leaves was one of my favorite shores. Of course after they were raked into a pile we had to jump in the pile, laughing and giggling only to hear my Mother yelling for us to stop “horsing around” and get those leaves raked. It was an annual tradition that repeated itself without fail. Sometimes you could catch Mom smiling as she yelled at us, trying to act annoyed. We all knew she was acting but we played our part. After leaves

were raked into those piles..and believe me with an acre of land there were plenty of piles, Mom and Grandma would come down and burn them. The smell of burning leaves still takes me back to those golden days of my childhood autumn. Of course it is also the greatest holiday…. Halloween! Black cats, bats, full moons, witches on brooms and candy corn! There is still time to get in on the Halloween purse kit giveaway (or 6 fat quarters, whichever one you choose). Write a comment and be sure to tell your friends. That is all you have to do.

I just spent a week in the mountains, and fall is showing her beauty. There are crisp and chilly mornings followed by warm days. We fished and caught some, kept a few and threw most back to grow for another year. Chipmunks were very busy, collecting food for the winter. Some even ventured into my lap for a peanut. One fat little chipmunk had a peanut in each cheek and was still trying to get that third one shoved in his mouth also. They know winter is not far behind. Time to get your sewing room organized for some great sewing this season. Happy Fall everyone, let the quilting begin.

Robin

P.S. Giveaway ends Thursday Sept 30th. A sneek peek at a new quilt coming very soon.

Halloween is coming!

2010-09-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

Where in the world did August go? Just a few minutes ago it was August 5th! Onward! I love September! It's the unofficial start of Fall. While the temperatures are still in the 90's here it sure doesn't feel like fall. But everywhere I see Halloween stuff. Now I have to admit it is my favorite holiday. Always has been. I think Halloween should last for 2 months at least. If my DH would not put up a fuss, I would start decorating for Halloween now. Crazy you say? Nope, and come on admit it there are a lot of you out there that feel the same way. What is there not to like about Halloween? So... since I am doing a give away...and I told you that if you comment on my blog you would be entered to win fat quarters from my stash, I thought why not make it Halloween fabric? Then I got the idea...why not make the fat quarters so that you could actually have a project to make it out of? How about a Halloween purse? I have fabric left over from my Boo Kitty Handbag. The named changed to BK Handbag after Halloween was over that year but the pattern is the same, just the fabrics were different. So how many of your Halloween fanatics would love a kit of fabric and the pattern? So.. the giveaway will end the end of September. That's enough time for you shy sewers to comment isn't it? Some already have...and you are STILL in the running. I am posting pictures of the Boo Kitty Handbag.. so you can see what you can make. The handles and trims aren't included but I am sure you can find them in your area. Tell me how you decorate, how you celebrate and what makes Halloween so special. Now is the time to work on those Fall and Halloween projects. My house looks like a shrine to that spirited holiday. All things Halloween are revered and carefully displayed for their individual spookiness, cuteness, and eeriness, (not so sure those are even real words but hey they are now). And all of you Quilters, if you have never made a Sun Bonnet Sue Witch, what Are you waiting for? I made this cutie several years ago from a pattern in a magazine. I have quite a collection of witches and she fit right in. So come on, leave me a comment!

Back to work on new patterns. Happy sewing and may your bobbins always be full.

Robin

A Vintage Tale

2010-08-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

I posted 2 pictures last time...and you all are saying"What the heck are those?" Well that was the sneak peek... It is a peek at a new quilt that is coming soon. My inspiration is a vintage quilt. I love all aspects of quilting but I am truly a traditional quilter. Tradition makes me happy. It is a connection to the past. It is a glimpse into what was and how simple life was before HD Tvs and Cell phones and Netflix. Now don't get me wrong...I love those things too but I do love to take a trip down memory lane and revisit places and people from my childhood. So if you too love the traditional then this one is for you. I can't wait to show it to you but for now you will have to be satisfied with the sneak peeks. Oh and this post I am including a picture of Hari. Laura posted a wonderful story, how about you? I know you have one to share. Let's hear from you!

Bobbins full speed ahead!!

Robin

Kitten Tales and Sneak Peeks

2010-08-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

Trying to get back on here and write an update. The past 2 weeks have been BUSY as I am trying to finish 3 quilts. Okay so I do have 2 1/2 done. But that means now I need to write the patterns and that is actually the hardest part. I have to do it when there isn't anyone around. Complete silence and no interruptions are the only way I can get them written. I am giving you a sneak peek at one of them. Now I am still running the giveaway....so PLEASE leave a comment. Hey it's for fabric! I don't write about my kitty very often. She is a love...a real love and I have been close to losing her so many times in the past year I have lost count. She is still hanging in there and she still acts so happy. She is 18 years old and was born in my closet. Her story is that her Mother was feral and just showed up at my house one day, PG and homeless and hungry. It took a while before she would let me within 10 feet of her. She finally did and finally let me bring her into the house. Well it was kitten time and I was in the kitchen cooking when my girls heard little cries. We searched the house and found the Mommy cat with her new batch of kittens in the bottom of my closet. We also had a dog..my Corkey. He was the love of my life..a Golden Retriever. The Mommy cat loved that dog! So Hari was born in that closet. The girls called her Hairy as she was so so fuzzy! The name stuck. I changed the spelling of her name. She is the last one now and everyday is a treasure. Mommy cat made it to 19 years old; Corkey lived 17 years, which is darn near unheard of for a Golden. So Hari is my last baby. I take more time with her and spend more time with her than I probably should. I don't get as much accomplished as I should as spending time with her is precious. I once heard...Tomorrow is promised to no one. There is my baby cat story... how about sharing your story with me. Let me hear from you. Happy Sewing... Robin

Reuse, rethink and redo

2010-08-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

New things that have come this summer are a third in the Seasons line: Summer…..At the Beach table runner. It is full of cool blues to remind you of the ocean blue and seashells and last but not least, a sand pail and shovel, one of my favorite toys as child. Whether you lived near a beach or maybe traveled to one for family vacations, this runner will bring a touch of nostalgia and a splash of cool for your summer table.

Reuse, redo, reorganize, and rethink. That has been my mantra this year. I reorganized my sewing space. A new sewing cabinet found home in my sewing room and that started a whole chain of events. I am not finished yet but I am well on my way. I made curtains and purged all the notions and items that we as quilters and sewers collect. I am currently looking for an old child’s dresser. I want a wooden one, tall enough I can use the top as space to use and store my light box. The 3-4 drawers will hold all the smaller items that need a place to live but I don’t want to see on a daily basis. I have been keeping my eye out of inspirational things for some small spaces on the walls.

Last Saturday a lovely lady and her friend came into the local quilt shop where I work 1 day a week. She was looking for fabric that had a vintage flavor. She brought with her a “book”. After a closer look, that book was actually a tablet of 12 X 12 scrapbooking papers. OMG what gorgeous images were in this book! One of the images and one she was pulling colors and “feeling” from was of a Robin sitting on a branch and looking over at her nest with 3 beautiful blue eggs in it. I gasped. It was so beautiful. It looked like a watercolor painting. I asked where she had found the book and she told me at “Michaels”. In our area that is a large chain craft store. I thanked her and told her I would be going out and finding myself one as I had to have that print. After all it is of a Robin. She cheerfully tore that page out of me, explaining there were 2 more copies still in the book. What a generous thing to do. After we had found her fabric and I had cut all the beautiful yardage she had chosen she happily went to go and start her vintage quilt. Quilters are the most generous people. We happily give scraps of fabric, whole yardage, time, opinions, and whatever else we can give to others who share and know firsthand our passion, QUILTING. I am including a picture of that print that stole my heart and will get it framed this week. I have just the place on my wall where it will give me inspiration and provide a nostalgic tug at my heart each time I look at it. Tell me what inspires you? What makes your hear leap at the sight or sound of? When the world is wobbling for you, what brings you back from the brink and renews your spirit? Leave me a post and let’s see how many wonderful things we can share here. I will be doing a giveaway of 6 Fat Quarters from my stash. If you post a comment, you get one entry, if you blog about this post and giveaway you will get 2 more entries. It has been a dry spell here for blogging but I promise to be better and blog more. Happy sewing and may your bobbins always be full

Robin

Lights... Camera... Action!

2010-04-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

Lights…..Camera….Action!

I want to announce to you all, that I just finished taping the first of 3 new shows for the Harwood Podcast Network. This will be my second time on Let’s Quilt and I am so excited to do this show. Helene Woods is just a wonderful lady and as I have said before a very talented quilter among other things. We will be doing a darling project that you see here to the right. The Let’s Quilt podcasts are FREE! How cool is that? So if you want to take a class and join us. Check back and I will let you all know when the episodes start airing. Meanwhile go check out the other fabulous shows they have. There is literally something for everyone. Cindy (Helene’s daughter) is one terrific cook and I can personally attest to the fabulous recipes she cooks on her shows. So when you have a few minutes today go check out Harwood Podcasts it will be well worth your time.

Meanwhile I am off this morning to a photo shoot so I can post some new patterns on my website. Make your day a great one with whatever you decide to do.

Happy sewing!

Robin

Welcome Spring!

2010-03-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

Big things are happening here at Seams Delightful. 3 new patterns are getting ready to make their debut! This calls for something special. This weekend Spring officially starts and I have had the spring cleaning bug. Been working hard at home doing all that hard, heavy and oh so necessary cleaning that needs to be done at least twice a year. Yes I am paying for it with my back but a few days of resting it should get me back on the good foot. We are also sprucing up the website to make it fresher and cleaner. Keep tuned and see what we come up with.

For those of you that have been waiting for the Flirty Girl Bath pattern. It’s coming soon. If you would like to pre-order your pattern you may. Just place Flirty Girl Bath in your cart and as soon as it arrives here, we will send it out to you with free shipping. For the limited time, 03/19/10 through 03/26/10, there will be free shipping on all orders so here is your chance to indulge in a bit of economic stimulus for yourself! Hope you have a fabulous weekend. Sew Happy!

Robin

Interview with a Quilter

2010-01-28T20:39:00.000-08:00

My friend Helene Wood, a very talented quilter, has added a new talent to add to her resume, Show Host. Helene is the host of "Let's Quilt". Let's Quilt is one of the newest podcast programs from http://www.harwoodpodcast.com/. 2009 was an especially busy year for Helene, her daughter Cindy and grandson, Cameron. This talented family has taken the internet world by storm. Helene came to me just before the holidays and asked if I would come on her show and talk about my quilts and my designs. "Would I come on your show?" Oh my God yes I would come. What an honor for me. I was thrilled. Helene told me she wanted to talk about my newest quilt design, Carolina Rose. So in January 2010, we taped the show. It is up now and available for viewing. I hope you will take a few minutes and click on the link above, then click on "Let's Quilt" and sit down with a cup of tea and visit with Helen and myself. While you are there, browse through the numerous episodes listed for quilting. Cindy and Cameron also host cooking shows and techology shows. What a talented family and oh so generous in their knowledge. I wish them every sucess. Oh and they have asked me back! I can't wait to do another episode.

Ring in the New!

2009-12-31T07:56:00.000-08:00

It's almost here, 2010 that is. Where did the last year go? I swear that each year time passes more quickly. I know I don't like that, how can I possibly get everything done when time is on fast forward and I apparently am on slow motion? This past year has been one of challenges and trials and will not be mourned in it's passing my most people. Still there is a bittersweet tug at my heart for the this past year. Time travels with you on your journey through life and has been your companion through the good and and not so good. To leave this companion never to revisit again brings me a certain sadness, but at the same time I feel the opportunities for endless possibilities in this year new. This past year has been one of challenges and trials and will not be mourned in its passing my most people. Still there is a bittersweet tug at my heart for the past year. Time travels with you on your journey through life and has been your companion through the good and not so good. To leave this companion never to revisit again brings me certain sadness, but at the same time I feel the opportunities for endless possibilities in this year new. May each of you find less joy in yesterday than you will find in tomorrow, may your trials and troubles be left in the old year and may you find new joys and new ways to share those joys with others. This poem from William Arthur Ward sums up my heartfelt wishes for the new year ahead:

“Another fresh new year is here . . .

Another year to live!

To banish worry, doubt, and fear,

To love and laugh and give!

This bright new year is given me

To live each day with zest . . .

To daily grow and try to be

My highest and my best!

I have the opportunity

Once more to right some wrongs,

To pray for peace, to plant a tree,

And sing more joyful songs!”

Happy New Year Everyone, See you in 2010!

Robin

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-22T10:10:00.001-08:00

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Its cold! Christmas time should be cold don't you think? I remember as a child snow, lots of snow. We would gather at the windows all excited to watch it snow for Christmas. There were Xmas pageants to go to. Of course the school programs with singing children. What a magical time of year, shopping for gifts downtown, where the stores and shops were all decorated with lights and animated displays. As a family we would all pile into the station wagon and drive through the neighborhoods to see the houses all lighted up for Christmas. The magic continues today. For those that still believe, Santa still delivers presents to those that are good. If you look you can still find reindeer prints in the snow on Christmas morning.

I still believe, do you?

I wish you and yours a very special holiday. Drink in the magic of the season and keep it all year. To close out this year, here is a peek at the new fabrics that have just hit the stores for my new project. Its Heather Bailey's new line Nicey Jane from Free Spirit. It's bright and fresh and very lively. We've got some special projects using this great line. We will give you more peeks after the holidays. Enjoy all the wonder and we will see you in the new year.

Happy Holidays Everyone and a Happy New Year.
Robin

Thanksgiving Already?

2009-11-22T13:27:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it will be Thanksgiving in just about 15 minutes? Where has the year gone? Just a moment ago I was dragging out all of the Halloween treasures. If your house is like mine then this week starts a never-ending rush to the Holidays. First we will have Thanksgiving with family and friends and enjoy a meal complete with some kind of disaster..don't try and deny it, there is ALWAYS some kind of disaster, then it's the Christmas rush. Some of my best and most precious memories come from those disasters. Like the year the cat jumped on the ridge of the buffet and was walking down that ridge with typical cat grace and arrogance when suddenly her back leg slipped...............and slipped, then her rear end slipped and the next we knew she has slipped and fallen (rear first of course) into the pumpkin pie I had baked! OMG..what do I do...if I yell she will take off spreading pumpkin from here to eternity, minus Charlton Heston! I tried to grab her but the kids in their hysterical laughter scared her and she took off running, her tail flipping pumpkin to the four corners of the dining room. A picture that is permanently etched in my memory. We seem to have animal disasters at my house...as when I was 5, our parakeet - Peetie- got out of his cage and flew around the house refusing to be caught until we sat down to dinner and he landed in the mashed potatoes. My grandparents were visiting that year and Gramma was not amused. At least she wasn't as amused as my older sister and I.
Be thankful for the people in your life and for the blessings you have. Remember to love those that are important to you and tell them you do. Share with me (and the rest of blog world) some of your funniest Thanksgiving moments. As a gift of the season from me to you, download the microwave potato bag directions. They make wonderful hostess gifts. Who wouldn't want a sure fire way to make delicious baked potatoes in your microwave. Be creative with your fabric choices but be sure to only use 100% cotton fabric, batting and thread. get your free pattern from my site, http://www.seamsdelightfuldesigns.com/

Have a very wonderful Thanksgiving!
Robin

Autumn Splendor

2009-09-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

I spent the Labor Day weekend digging out the fall decorations and cleaning for fall. Fall cleaning - you know all the things that you put off till another day? Like baseboards, drapes, shutters, cleaning the china and the crystal in the hutch and then I would get side tracked by finding things that really needed to be gone through and thrown out or given to good will. No wonder it takes me so long to do the housework. Out of 11 separate rooms to do (this includes bathrooms and laundry room) I have 2 done. I remember when I could do the whole house in a long weekend. Okay not going to tell you how many years ago that was. Aside from the years, the back surgeries may have something to do with slowing down also. I did get the main living areas done or mostly anyway. Then I was ready to dig into fall decorations. I decided that it was too early for Halloween, for me personally, Halloween could be year round but I am not the only vote here. I had more than I thought. Seems that I make things because I love them and my mind tells me I really don’t have “a thing to use for fall decorating”. It doesn’t take long before you have enough things to decorate the neighborhood. Today I am happily applying fall to every surface in my home. There are quilts on the beds, and dining room table (I haven’t used tablecloths in years), 4 couches, and the chairs. Then there are the table runners, used for the Kitchen Island, coffee tables, end tables, night stands, and dressers. While I continue to decorate and distribute all of my fall trappings, I will be thinking of all of you and wondering how you are decorating for fall. I am sharing this picture from my house that I had the best time playing with in Photoshop. The pumpkin in the picture I made. I hope to make a few more in different sizes. Share your thoughts, traditions, and projects with us won’t you? It only takes a minute. Tell us what your favorite decoration is, or what special event or trip you take every fall. How many of my fellow Bay Area peeps will be attending the Bay Area Quilt Craft and Sewing Festival next weekend?

Until next time…

Robin

Fall Memories

2009-09-05T07:47:00.000-07:00

It occurred to me while I was writing out the grocery list for this weekend’s festivities that this is the unofficial end to summer. Schools are in session again and I am beginning to see the leaves turn although you would think that due more to the oppressive heat and humidity we’ve had here lately. But it’s really the turning of the seasons. I have been tempted to drag out all the fall decorations and of course the HALLOWEEN stuff. But I keep reminding myself that it’s a bit early, okay, okay, the temp is still 96 degrees and holding. Not like when I was a kid and September rolled around. We needed a jacket to get to school because it was in the low 50’s but by 3:30pm when school let out…we had to tie our jacket or tie our sweaters around our waists or stuff them in our school bags. But by dinner time we needed a jacket again to play outside before being called in for the evening. Of course that wasn’t in California, it was in Northern Wyoming. We had huge cottonwood trees in our yard. LOTS of trees. The leaves would fall and it was our job to keep them raked up. That was a task, even for 4 of us kids. We lived on a place that has an acre yard. So, as I am celebrating this weekend with my DH and friends and we are eating more food that is considered socially acceptable, my mind will be running from fall decorating and finishing up projects that are left in the studio and remembering raking the leaves as a child just so we could run and jump into pile, scattering them so we would have to rake them all over again. Maybe you could leave me a comment and tell about your favorite fall memories as a child. Where did you live and what exclusively fall thing did you do? Have a safe and happy Labor Day. Oh and...Harvest Beauty table runner is now available on my website.

Happy Fall

Robin

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So many projects so little time.....

2009-08-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

I’ve been very busy here, finishing up projects and writing patterns. Sometimes I wish there were more hours in the day as I can’t seem to get everything accomplished that I would like. My sewing machine has been on night and day it seems. So what is the end result of all this? Hero and Baby Hero are very close to being done. Hero will showcase a simple pattern for all of our machine embroidery enthusiasts as well as an alternate pattern for our regular quilters. Baby Hero was suppose to be back from the quilter last week but didn’t make it. We hope it will be here this week. Then it will be pretty picture time. I have also been going full steam ahead on Halloween! My quilt top is almost finished and Brunhilda's Midnight Ride from Crabapple Hill is complete and is my favorite addition to the Halloween decorations.

“Special Delivery” is a new wall hanging for Christmas and shows really cute Santa on his way to delivering gifts for Christmas! This new wall hanging uses the machine embroidery designs by Sweet Heirloom Embroidery and once the designs have been embroidered, it can be finished in just a matter of hours. If you don’t have any empty walls to showcase these Santas, it would also make a darling table topper. If you would like your own set of Santas and don’t have an embroidery machine, I have 4 embroidered sets available and will be adding them to my website. You can also send me an email and I will reserve them for you. Add your own fabrics for sashing and the border and you are ready to layer, quilt and bind!

I am getting ready to start my fall decorating. As far as I am concerned Labor Day is the end of summer and its fall. To celebrate the season I have a new table runner and I am having a bit of a problem deciding where I want to put it. Harvest Beauty is a very elegant table runner just in time for the fall season. It won’t take you much time to complete this beauty and have your fall table looking stunning. Will it go on my dining room table or on the sofa back table or on the island in the kitchen? The dining room table is winning right now. The pattern will be available on my website this week for pre-order. The runner is easy and you can use up your left over fabrics or choose the new lines that are coming out. It would be just stunning using Mill House Inn by Fig Tree Quilts. Joanna designs the most fabulous fabrics! Well peoples…its back to the sewing machine as I have more to finish and get ready. To help you jump start your fall sewing, for a limited time we are offering free shipping on our website so start something beautiful for fall.

May your bobbins always be full

Robin
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Post Traumatic Printer Failure

2009-08-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

I am not sure that there is anything more confounding than computer/technology problems. Everything here comes to a screeching halt when the technology stops. I have been nursing my printer along for about two weeks now. I was in denial that it was about to go to the big recycle bin. I loved that printer. It was reliable and it was an old friend. Yesterday morning as I was about to start a project and needed it, I am way too busy for this. The fatal error message comes up. Its “internal parts have come to the end of their service life, consult my printer documentation.” Interpretation: Go Buy A New Printer. So off to Best Buy I went to purchase a new printer. I found just the right one. AND on sale. That is a twofer. To the checkout I went and home.
After several hours, many references to the manual, I finally got the printer installed. Its wireless so no more wires! Yea! Printing is faster now and oh what a really nice job of printing it does. I am over the mourning of a passing friend Mr. Printer and have started a new relationship with Mr. New Printer. My grandma always said that “a new broom sweeps clean”. She was right… technology the newness (is that a word?) and coolness of new technology. I just want to sit here and print till the cows come home. Today starts a new day for printing madness. I need templates for my embroidery machine; I need to proof read patterns…the new ones coming out soon. So I am back to work, with my new friend to help me along the way. Hope your day is a good technology day and that all your electronics behave themselves. Robin

My Favorite Season

2009-08-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

I am starting to get excited, summer is winding down, the kids are back in school and soon it will be autumn, my favorite season. The colors, the smells, crisp air, HALLOWEEN, Thanksgiving, what’s not to like about fall? Oh and did I mention Halloween? It also stirs the quilting bug in me – more so than usual. I can hardly get through a day without sewing of some kind. If I can’t sit at my machine then hand work satiates my sewing cravings. I am just finishing up a fall table runner and it will be available on my website very soon. I am also writing the pattern for “Hero”. You remember the quilty wall hanging I did for my DH? His 37 years in EMS. Well my quilter Kathy Viera suggested some time ago (I already had Hero in progress) that I do a pattern for machine embroiders. She has gotten a lot of comments that they wish there were more patterns to showcase the beautiful machine embroidered motifs that are available. I also thought that we should do a Hero quilt that didn’t involve machine embroidery. Its size and simplicity makes it a perfect fit for a baby quilt, hence “Baby Hero”. Baby Hero is at the quilter and should be back next week.
Barbara and I took a day and spent it at In Between Stitches just wandering the store and touching and imagining all the things we could make with the beautiful fabrics there. Both of us bought Halloween fabric and are now working on a Halloween quilt. I am not going to embarrass myself by telling you how many Halloween quilts I have. Let’s just say its significant okay? I don’t think you can have too many. I use them all over my house. You will find quilts on tables, chairs, baskets, couches, loveseats, beds, and walls. And I have closets bursting with them.
How about digging out a project and finishing it up or grab that scrap bag and make a wall hanging, baby quilt, table runner or a donation quilt and get those fingers limbered up for full fledged fall quilting. Leave me a comment and tell me what your plans are for quilting this fall. Are you doing Christmas gifts, Halloween or fall? Placemats, table runners, or are you just trying to clear out that UFO stack? Whatever your project list is made up of, jump and get your quilting fix and make something beautiful, stunning…make something!

May your bobbins always be full,
Robin

Where have I been?

2009-07-30T09:54:00.001-07:00

I have to apologize for the long dry spell in my blogging. I had to make a trip to the Minor Injury Clinic and am just now able to type and do things with my left hand. I am right handed but you would be amazed at what you can’t do without both hands! I had a disagreement with a new pair of scissors and they won. I bought a pair of Kai shears and good Lord; they are sharp to the very end. I was cutting fabric and Oops….. there goes my left index finger! Don’t get any blood on the fabric! After some debate as to whether to stitch or glue the gapping cut in my finger, the doctor decided I could get away with gluing. I as happy…I mean who wants to have a needle stuck in a laceration so they can numb it up? Glue it was. Took a bit longer for things to mess and heal up but we are there. My finger will be good as new again. Hope you will forgive me and I will try and catch up.
I went to the post office and look there’s a large white envelope in my box! Its fat, its soft, its fabric! Did you ever want to be a fabric designer? Do you dream about millions of yards of fabric with your designs on them? Well my budding designers you can and right now! I found a fabulous website that allows you to design your own fabric and have it printed! Get out those sketches and clean them up. Upload those award winning designs to www.spoonflower.com. And pick your yardage and pattern repeat. It’s that simple. You may want to do a test swatch (8” X 8”) or Fat Quarter first to check on pesky details like color and pattern size before you order your gazillion yards. Monitors are different everywhere and what may look like the perfect shade of purple may end up being a fuchsia. Yes it’s a bit pricey but hey can you put a price tag on your own fabric design? I think not. Okay I uploaded my logo… and aside from some color modifications…it’s just perfect! I was impressed with the fabric they print on, as I truly was expecting it to be shall we say “ a little less than desired”, but it’s really pretty good quality. And hey it is printed in the USA, which makes it so much more appealing to me. I like helping out fellow Americans to get jobs and keep jobs right here. So this can be a win-win all the way around. I know there are some other websites that do the same but Spoonflower has my attention. There is even an editor to do minor changes. While you are there browse some of the fabric designs that others have uploaded. Have a happy fabric day!

Robin

37 years and counting

2009-07-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

It seems that the hot weather is here to stay for awhile. What’s a girl to do? SEW! I’ve finished up some older projects that have living in the closet for awhile now. I really am embarrassed to tell you how long they have lived there. Felt really good to get them off the stack. My hubby’s quilt has been on that stack for a long time and I dug it out and it’s ready to quilt. He has been in Emergency Medicine for 37 years this year and still going strong. I made him a small wall hanging with some machine embroidered motifs for his “I LOVE ME” wall. We laugh about his wall. He has pictures and golf balls on every square inch of that room. Not sure where he will hang the quilt but I am sure he will find a place. I had intended on making a lap quilt but he told me when he found out what I was doing that he would rather have the smaller size. I hope to have it quilted in the next 10 days.
Don’t know about you but my husband rarely gets any of the treasure from my quilting adventures. Not sure why that is but he has 1 quilt of flannel and that’s it. Guess it’s hard to think of things that guys would want from our hobby. Maybe we could all think a little harder what things we could make for our better halves. I know that without his support I wouldn’t be able to do this and wouldn’t get have as much enjoyment out of it. SO.. that being said, thank the man in your life for his understanding and support – even if that support comes in the form of silence. Sometimes saying nothing is worth everything. I am off to do more sewing where it’s cool. Fall will be here soon enough and we need all the time we can get to start and finish all those Christmas presents and projects we told ourselves we can get done before Dec 24th.

Happy quilting

Robin

First Quilt...Last Quilt

2009-07-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

I think I am the last holdout. I mean for Camille’s blog post asking for us to show our first quilt and then our last quilt. I think go-go boots were in style.. Or maybe it was sooner than that. Not sure LOL. Think it was actually 2002. I hadn’t sewn in decades. I use to make all my own clothes and fell out of love with sewing. I had been through a traumatic time when I lost my parents and my 3 20 year old cats in a span of 2 years. I was desperately looking for a way to keep all the memories intact. My neighbor was a quilter and we talked about a memory quilt and what it would entail. I begged and pleaded with her to make it for me, but her pat answer was “You can make it”. I finally gave in and dug out the old sewing machine. I had to plan, no pattern just a thought. I gathered photos and bought some of that awful iron-on transfer fabric. Printed my animal pictures on it and began. I had no idea what a quilt shop was but Hancock’s was just down the street. I bought 2 fat quarter packs of PLAID HOMESPUNS! What was I thinking. I set out to make a wall hanging. That wall hanging now fits on my queen size bed. It’s still one of my favorite quilts and its place of honor is next to my side of the bed on a quilt rack. After that quilt there was no stopping me. I made 6 more that year. As for my last quilt well that would be Carolina Rose. As the saying goes..We’ve come a long way baby!

Funnel Cakes, Cotton Candy and More..

2009-07-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

Our county fair is on right now and I always look forward to attending. I just love the fair. It brings back fond memories of my childhood growing up in Wyoming. Yes I was in 4-H. I showed livestock…lambs to be exact and entered in sewing, canning and cooking. Everyone did. My boxes in the attic have a few ribbons and rewards from my years in 4-H. What a great experience. I wouldn’t have traded those times for anything. This year as in years past I walk the entire fair. I look at every quilt and at every pie, jar of jam, pickles, and cakes. I don’t envy the judges at all. They all look so good! I mosey on down to the livestock barns and look at the entries there. I talk with the kids about their lamb, goat or steer. The bright and shiny faces, proud to show off the ribbons won and what their plans are for next year. The smell as you approach the barns are of hay and straw and yes the not so pleasant but it all mingles together to give that one of a kind memory. My photos are of some of the winners this year. While ribbons weren’t available for the photo as parents have securely tucked them away to the scrapbook at home, the winners themselves show in their velvet eyes the thrill of victory. Support these young people. They are learning valuable lessons for life that will make them outstanding citizens, responsible adults and productive leaders in our communities and our nation.
For us quilt lovers I have included pictures of some of the quilts, and one simply fabulous quilt shop. I apologize for the picture, but the “shop” was behind glass and it was difficult to take clear pictures of it. I think you can see how truly creative and fabulous this little shop is. And poor shot or not, warrants a place on my blog. Last but not least is the carnival. What child doesn’t have fond memories of the carnival? It’s a rite of summer and a rite of passage in our youth. What was your favorite ride? The Tilt-O-Wheel? the Ferris Wheel? or the carousel? Let me know that your favorite was and your favorite memory of the fair.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy Birthday America!

2009-07-04T07:49:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th to all of you. What is your idea of the perfect 4th of July Holiday? Is it getting the family together and BBQing the usual fair of hotdogs and hamburgers? Going on a camping trip? Going on a picnic? Leave me a comment on what your ideal holiday plans would be or are. I am staying home and my husband is exercising the new BBQ. After realizing yesterday that the aerators weren't working correctly (what the blazes is an aerator?), he went on the hunt for a new BBQ. Much grumbling and Good God! they want how much for this? He came home with the purchase. Of course it's all in a box. All zillion pieces of it. Next..open book...on the 1st inside page is a full size picture of the screwdriver they included..with the caption "Screwdriver". Well the grumbling started again. After 2 hours the small BBQ emerged from the zillion pieces and resembles something like what we could cook on. No parts left over (and that my friends is a really good sign) but... there is a pin with a chain attached that neither of us can figure out what it goes to. Maybe it will be apparent later. We test drove the new BBQ last night and all seems fine. So today we will participate in time honored tradition of hotdogs and hamburgers, potato salad, baked beans, and soft drinks. No beer today as my other half has to work tonight. He is a paramedic and works in Oakland. It will be crazy and busy and probably not a good shift for those trying to protect and serve and alleviate suffering. As for me...the moment he hits the end of the driveway...I am off to the studio to exercise my life, liberty and pursuit of happiness in the fabric closet. Who could ask for a better day?

We went to the Alameda County Fair on the 2nd. Another fun summer activity. I took pictures and will share them with you in my next blog. Until then, have a safe and fun 4th and try not to eat too much.

Robin

Pattern Day

2009-07-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

Today is giveaway day! I put your names in my sewing bucket..and drew one out! It’s CAROL! Congrats Carol…you blogged about my giveaway which gave you more entries! Thanks so much. So I will be sending your choice of Rose Parquet and my new pattern Carolina Rose. I can’t wait to see what you do with the patterns. Thanks to all the girls for participating in my giveaway.

I told you in my last blog that I was going to a quilt show “somewhere”. Well that somewhere was Madera, CA. What a really nice day and show. The quilts were beautiful and I had a hard time voting in some of the categories. My friend Barbara and her DH Denny and I left at 8am and got there just as the doors were opening. Gosh where do you start? Do you start with all the gorgeous quilts in the competition or do you hit the vendor mall? As it turned out the way the show was set up we could do both at the same time. Look at quilts…shop..look at quilts…shop. Perfect day. They also had raffles and a silent auction, a Food Court and lots of quilters! It really truly was a perfect day…well except for the 107 degree heat! Thank You air conditioning. We ate lunch after the show at a local restaurant that has been a town staple for many decades. Lots of good home cooked food. Doggy bags are the norm as their portions are HUGE. It was a good evening pawing through my purchases and looking over all the patterns and pictures. What

better day could we have?

Carol, email me your address so I can get your patterns out!

robin@seamsdelightfuldesigns.com

Robin

Quilt Shop, Quilt Show and ....Quilt

2009-06-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

It’s Saturday and quite early and my favorite time of day, I think because my head is the clearest. The sun has just started to shine and the air is crisp. I am enjoying my coffee and the thought occurred to me that maybe without a full on picture of the new quilt some of you couldn’t decide on whether or not this was a giveaway you wanted to participate in. So….I am posting a full picture. It’s also on the website but this will give the blog readers a peek at the whole thing. Today is my day to work at the local quilt shop and I’ll be busy all day. I have some new fabric that my friend Anne, at Bunny Hill Designs sent me as a treasure from Market last month. I have had it spread out now for a few days and anxious to really start playing with it. I hope to start Monday on it. Sunday is out as my friend Barbara and her DH are taking me to a quilt show...somewhere. It’s a surprise? Well kind of. You see I have no sense of direction…I only have 2 directions…North and Not North. So I will leave the driving to them and just enjoy the day. I hope to have pictures for you all when I get back. Maybe I’ll find some new treasures! Happy Weekend Everyone.
Robin

June Gloom and Bloom Giveaway

2009-06-24T06:12:00.000-07:00

A few delays and a couple of unexpected events like my DH coming down with some kind of terrible bug (this is the June gloom part). We are sure it’s not Swine Flu. We’ve had the strangest June weather this year. I know a lot of you have too. The news says it’s been the coolest June in 35 years! Well is just the excuse those bugs need to multiply and spread. I’m sure all of you would agree that a sick DH is a major kink in the chain of life. He is getting better, so please keep your fingers crossed that we continue back to health.

To launch the release of my new pattern (this is the June bloom part), Carolina Rose, and because I seriously need some fun, I am hosting a pattern giveaway. Here are the details.
The winner will receive a copy of Carolina Rose and another pattern of your choice from my website.
You will receive 1 entry for your comment on my blog, be sure to tell me what your second pattern choice is and why you like that pattern.
Link back to my blog and website from your blog for 2 extra entries. I will read the blog for your comments and check out your blog for the links.
I will pick a winner July 1st from all the entries. Good Luck to all of you and watch for the website launch of Carolina Rose.

Carolina Rose is back from the Quilter!

2009-06-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

The new quilt is back from the quilter! How exciting. Not many things can top getting one of your quilts back from the quilter and you see it for the first time. It is being bound now and then to the photographer. The pattern is ready to go (except for the new picture) and I am so anxious for you to see her. Think she is my best work yet. You can probably see from the sneak peek picture that there is some appliqué. For those of you that don’t like hand appliqué, you can use any method you want. I hope to have Carolina Rose available on the website by next week. There is a class already scheduled for August at In Between Stitches in Livermore, CA. You can check for updates at http://www.inbetweenstitches.com/. Meanwhile I am working on binding and sketching a new design. I am so excited to be back in the sewing studio and sewing again. Venture out and visit your local quilt shop and be inspired and have a truly wonderful weekend.

Wishing you full bobbins, beautiful threads and boat loads of fabric,
Robin

Camping Trip

2009-06-11T07:18:00.001-07:00

We sure have had some strange weather this year so far. Temperatures are usually in the 80's – high 80's. Not that I am complaining...don't get me wrong. I really don't like the extreme heat that we get here in the summer. We are preparing for one of our summer camping trips. It's a 3 day 2 night extravaganza. We have an RV we call "The Beast". It's an older RV but we don't have to worry about getting the floors dirty and tracking in pine needles. Last year we went camping and found this perfectly wonderful campsite that has a resident camp host – a deer. A Doe to be exact and every year she has a fawn in the campground. She is a fixture there and mooches food from campers all summer long with her baby trailing behind her. I have never had a Doe come up to me outside of a petting zoo or park. It was crazy! I was trying to take her picture as I was feeding her carrot sticks. She would meet us in our camping spot after a day of fishing…looking at her little deer watch…her eyes saying everything…"Where have you been? I thought you said 6:00pm... its 6:45! I've been waiting." While we were settling in after a long day of fishing, she would patiently wait for snacks and then continue on her rounds of all the other campsites. Regular campers to this campground told us that she does this every morning and evening, and to be careful as she would follow us inside the RV if we didn't watch her. Where is the baby you ask? It's always close but not as sociable as its mother. I hope we go back this year, what a beautiful spot and very relaxing but the "local" company is the best.

Winners, Winners, Winners

2009-06-08T06:27:00.000-07:00

We Have a Winner!

Today’s the big day and as you can see from the picture I am celebrating for you!

I used the random number generator on my blog page to choose a number. First let me say that I wish you all could have won and I want to thank all of you for entering my giveaway and all your very sweet comments and for making the launch of SEWN SO FABULOUS.

The winner of the Fat Quarter pack is ……(drum roll…) is number 9. Krousegirl.

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 85 Result: 9

Please send me an email with your shipping address so that I can get these beautiful fabrics off to you. Congratulations!

That being said….I decided to choose 2 more numbers to win one of my patterns. And those winners are: (drum roll…………) # 46 and #80!

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 85 Result: 46

#46 is Sue Cahill and #80 is Rebecca.

True Random Number Generator Min:1 Max: 85 Result: 80

Please email me robin@seamsdelightfuldesigns.com with your shipping addresses and I will send you your goodies. I am also emailing our winners to let them know they have won. I hope all of you will come back and visit my blog and visit my website. This will not be the last giveaway we do, and I plan on listing more patterns very soon.

Wishing you all full bobbins, beautiful threads and boat loads of fabric

Robin

2009-06-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

Morning!

Is everyone excited? June 8th is Monday! I will draw the winner of the FQ pack from a random number generator. Good luck to all of you! To tease you a bit I am posting another picture of the famous fat quarter stack so that you can see and maybe read what else is in there besides those peacock feathers. FQ stacks are a bit hard to photograph. Also, I am releasing a new pattern by the middle of the month, Carolina Rose. To add to the excitement, I am sending you this teaser for the new quilt pattern. Time is off the essence and I need to get back to work. Happy Friday everyone.

Robin

Rumors are True

2009-06-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

Morning my friends,

What fun its been reading your comments...wish you all could win my bundle of FQ's. There was a post yesterday that asked if there was a website...and its true. I have been working hard on getting my website up and running. We are online but the online store is still in hibernation. I hope to have it available soon. I will keep you posted. Hope your day is filled with full bobbins, lots of pretty thread and boat loads of fabric!

www.seamsdelightfuldesigns.com

Robin

P.S. Annonymous regarding the website...send an email so that I have your address in case its you that wins!

2009-05-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

News Flash... Have you heard about the new website that is launching?? No Well check out the Sewn button to the right. Its a great new website for everyone that sews. Tips, help, projects ect ect. And to help launch it there is a giveaway!.. So post your comments here on my blog for your chance to win this stack of Fat Quarters. These beautiful FQ's are perfect for crazy quilting. Drawing will be June 8th so get those comments in to win and be sure and sign up for SEWN!

Happy Sunday Sewing!

Robin

Deadlines

2009-05-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

I don't like deadlines, but I admit that I work better with them. I set myself a goal that I would be online with the website in 2 weeks. That puts my goal at June 1st. Yes its like in 15 minutes! OMG ...will I be finished? Will the deadline police be hanging out in the bushes by my front door if I miss it? No probably not...right....naw..couldn't be...right? Gosh I hope not. I am really really trying hard to get everything done on time. There have been some very long nights and days. But I am sure alot of you already know this because you have already gone through this. (psst....there are no deadline police...right?) I haven't been able to design or do much else while this deadline looms. Okay I admit it I am starting to panic. If anyone knows how to be more organized and efficient I would really like to hear from you. Until then its back to "The List" yep the one I made the other day, as I still have things to cross off it as complete. Happy middle of the week! One last sip of coffee and I am just going to go peek and see if there is anything in the bushes.

On the road again.................

2009-05-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

Busy day.. I have to be on the road soon. I have much to do today. I hope to pick up my new quilt from the quilters. Need patterns printed, bagged and ready to ship. Of course there is always paperwork to do. Oh and I can't forget the photographer. Note to self... call the photographer. Well my sweeties, its Good Morning to all. Hope your Memorial Day weekend was a food-filled, family orientated good time. I also hope you remembered why we were celebrating.

Our Armed Forces past and present. Those that stand in the extreme weather, with no comforts facing enemies that have no discernible faces to provide all of us with the freedoms we enjoy. Freedom is not free, it comes with a price. The least we as Americans can do is celebrate and honor their service and sacrifice. The next time you see anyone in a uniform...THANK them for all that they do and give, so that we can remain free.

A rose is a rose is a rose....

2009-05-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

When the Rose Parquet pattern was made I couldn't have seen it in anything but a romantic floral. I bet alot of you also thought the same thing. Funny how we get trapped into the same box and comfort zone. Well what do you think now? I think its FABULOUS! I have admired Kaffe Fassett fabrics but they weren't my cup of tea. Well they just may be now. Queen B's Quilt Shop in Antioch has this pattern in stock and Bernie told me that her customers were having trouble seeing Rose Parquet in the brighter fabrics. (Robin 's brain kicks in - finally) I bought a pack of 2 1/2" strips and 3 quarter yards of other brights and set down in my studio and went to work making a different version to showcase other fabrics. Obviously Mexicali Rose Parquet is smaller than the Rose Parquet quilt but you get the idea? Yes? Try patterns in different fabrics than what your comfort zone is normally. Great surprises comes with a little courage.

Hello Sunshine

2009-05-23T07:11:00.000-07:00

Its a new day! Love the mornings. I am always up early...I mean before the sun gets up. I love to watch her rise. Sitting with a hot cup of coffee and just listening to the quiet. Can you listen to quiet? Well..listening to the quiet after the cat is fed, as there is no quiet until she is. She's a talker.

I sit and make a list of all the things I want to accomplish today. My its a long one! I will probably only get a third of the things done but I like to make sure I will be busy all day. No sitting around watching soaps and eating sweets for me. I am a go-er, a get up and get something done gal. So its off to get that list started.

Thanks for having coffee with me this morning. Hope your day is spectacular!

Robin