Quilted Cupcake

Cupcake Quilt Wall Hanging

2012-02-01T10:39:00.001-05:00

I finally made a cupcake quilt - a mini one, at least. Followers of this space know that I ~~hoard~~ collect cupcake fabric. Some folks have even been kind enough to send me cupcake fabric when they find it (thanks!). This pattern inspired me to fussy cut into the stash (at least a tiny bit).

I liked how this pattern sort of looks like Polaroid pictures. Of course, I also like the wonkiness. I decided to do the binding in another fabric I hoard - it looks like sprinkles you put on a cupcake. It's about 24" square. It will soon be hanging in my studio, AKA Quilted Cupcake HQ!

You can find the tutorial on Cluck Cluck Sew blog. She had a great guest post last week from Kersten at Frozen Knickers (love that blog name!). Click here for the link.

Podcast Episode 49 Show Notes

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Here are the Show Notes for Quilted Cupcake Podcast Episode 49, Let's Review:

My new sponsor is Pastimes Online. Click below to find their 2 new Block of the Month clubs:

Vintage Sewing Machines
Butterfly Garden

The Florida Fabric Stores I visited:
Crafty Threads
Keep Me in Stitches
Bernina Pfaff

Here's the awesome Haul of Fabric from my Florida trip, discussed on Podcast Episode 49.

Here's my favorite, from Moda, A Stitch in Color by Malka Dubrawsky

Here's that cool pattern from Empty Bobbin Sewing

Product Reviews from Episode 49:

Olfa 5" Precision Embroidery Scissors

The Principles of Knitting: A new "bible" in the knitting community - 700 pages with everything you'll ever want to know about knitting!

Finally, here's the before picture of the wheel of my studio chair before I cleaned it - all 5 were this bad or worse! It's a wonder the chair moved at all!

Podcast Episode 49 (Let's Review) is Posted!

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

I just posted a new Quilted Cupcake podcast episode - it's Number 49, Let's Review. I mistakenly called it episode 51 at the beginning - don't pay attention to that. It's really 49 - no secret missing episodes. Just a silly mistake.

Look for show notes later this week.

I just figured out how to embed it here at the blog. So in addition to iTunes or Libsyn, you can click here to listen:

Enabler Alert - Singer 160

2012-01-26T11:50:00.000-05:00

OK, so now that I have my big home-based Janome, I've been in the market for a travel machine. LisaAnn posted a link to the HSN Today's Special Value, and I fell in love. It's the Singer 160. I had to have it!

How cool is that? It looks like a featherweight, but with modern electronics. Not only is the design awesome, it has some cool attachments, including a circle foot that can create flowers and a cut & hem edge attachment that works like a mini-serger for edges. And, the package includes a carrying case and free shipping.

It's exclusive to HSN until April, and at a special price today. And, it's limited edition, so don't wait if you want one.

ETA: My order, placed about 11:30 a.m. EST, is on backorder - delivery on 2/16. Sad about that, but glad I'm going to get it.

(Important note: I'm not sponsored by Singer or HSN, just like sharing a good deal with you when I find one!)

Free Motion Quilting Foot and Bobbin Case

2012-01-25T11:45:00.000-05:00

During my recent trip, I discovered that Janome makes a Free Motion Quilting Foot and Bobbin Case. I didn't buy it locally because I wasn't sure they would work with my 6300P. Upon returning home, found that they do, so I ordered both from Allbrands.com.

I'll let you know after I take them for a test drive. The foot certainly looks different- the screw on top lets you adjust the tension.

Has anyone tried either of these? If so, please let me know, either via email or in the comments below.

Before and After

2012-01-24T12:12:00.003-05:00

I've been doing some traveling for work lately. Luckily, this trip had a bit of time for relaxing, too. This is the scene in Clearwater, Florida this Sunday BEFORE the Baltimore Ravens championship game (notice my purple-painted toes):

This is what I looked like AFTER the game:

To console myself (Of course, I would have said to celebrate if they'd won), I did some fabric shopping before my flight on Monday. Check back later this week for shop reviews and fabric eye candy!

Recent Pinterest Favorites

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Quilts are such awesome eye candy. These are some recent Pinterest finds that made me smile, all from quilters I recently discovered. I love that I can discover new bloggers via Pinterest, and even find projects that are new to me, but were originally posted a year or more ago.

Click on the link to visit the blogs noted. Good stuff!

While They Snooze - great scrappy quilt with tutorial

Lorajean's Magazine - lovely pennant quilt with a recipe.

Spool block by VeryKerryBerry

Any crafty bloggers out there that I may have missed? Please leave a comment with a link. Feel free to promote your own blog, too. We can always use some fresh inspiration!

Fabric Sale

2012-01-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

Fabric Sale - could there be a greater 2 word phrase in this world? OK, maybe Free Money. But, thought I'd let you all know about a great sale going on at a fellow Etsy seller's shop, Material Girl Shoppe. Sadly, she's closing her shop. However, the good news for you is that she's holding a close out sale.

She has lots of designer fabrics for $5-$7. And, lots of patterns, too. Shipping was reasonable, and very fast.

So, if you like Heather Bailey, Amy Butler, Riley Blake, etc., jump on these great deals. She has tons of Nicey Jane (that's what I bought). Can't wait to try the Portabellopixie market bag pattern this weekend.

Cupcake Pillow

2012-01-11T07:28:00.000-05:00

Check out this super cute cupcake pillow I saw at Target this week. Love the smile on the cupcake and the cherry. It's a little spendy, though ($15), so it stayed in the store.

Sky Scarf

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Sky Scarf - knitters, have you heard of this? You gather a bunch of sky-colored yarns, and knit 2 rows a day based on what color the sky outside your window is that day. At the end of a year, you have a scarf with 365 rows to represent the weather for a year. Isn't that an awesome idea? I love knowing that I'll knit at least a little something each day this year. Can't think of a better way to start every day.

My sister Kelly told me about it. We're both going to do one this year. The design is by Leafcutter Designs. You can download the free pattern on their site. And of course, there is a Ravelry group for support and a Flickr pool where you can see others' work.

Here's how mine's going so far. I didn't start until 1/7, so I had to guess on a few rows. Now, I set up a reminder on my iPhone so I don't skip any more days. I think starting it was the hardest part.

Here's the only problem I'm having - keeping all the balls of yarn from getting tangled. You bring the yarn up along the side. Any hints?

Interested? It's not too late to start. It would be cool if a bunch of us made them and compared them at the end of the year.

If you decide to do a sky scarf, here a few tips that I learned when starting this project:

1. I used size 5 needles - the 4 called for in the pattern was really tight. I got a shorter pair at Michael's for $2.99 so they'd fit in my basket. I cast on 31 stitches, one for every day of a (long) month.

2. KnitPicks Palette yarn works well - check my Ravelry project page for the colors (I'm Knitty Jean on Ravelry). This is a much more economical solution than the yarn shown on the website. I couldn't justify a $75 scarf.

3. Roll your yarn into several small balls. I'm finding them easier to work with than the center pull hanks.

4. Set a reminder on your computer or phone so you don't forget a row.

5. Dedicate a space near your computer to store your work in progress.

6. Use a basket or tray to keep the yarn together - but just a small amount. Store the rest together in a ziploc bag for later in the year.

7. Don't stress out about it. I've seen some people on the boards that have journals and record the date and time and sky condition each day, or worry about checking the sky at the same time each day. Remember, this is supposed to be fun, not work. In 2 years, when you look at the scarf, you won't care if it was 10:06, not 10:00, when you checked the sky on the 123rd day of the year.

8. If you don't want to do the sky, some other folks are doing "mood" scarves - pick a color that fits your mood that day. That idea sorta scares me. Not sure I want to see a scarf with big swatches of black (just kidding ;) -- I just don't need another pink scarf.

Cupcake Taggie Blankets

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Cupcakes, cupcakes, cupcakes. They seem to be everywhere this year. I just found a bunch of fun cupcake stuff at the Target dollar spot - including pink cupcake wrapping paper - I bought 6 rolls! Lots of new cupcake stuff at Kohl's, too.

Want to know the one place you couldn't find much if any cupcake stuff? In my Etsy shop! Duh! I think it's mostly because I hoard my cupcake fabric. (It's not a problem if you can admit it, right?)

So, I decided to create a new cupcake-shaped taggie blanket. I may have to make a huge sized one for me! It would probably make a fun rug, now that I think about it..hmmm....

Once I made one, I had to make more. These chocolate cupcakes are my favorite so far. Check out my shop if you'd like to see more.

Another fun thing I found at Target (but not in the dollar spot)-- Cupcake shaped straws! I had to have them - only $2. Of course, not for drinking, but for displaying in my studio.

Any fun cupcake things come your way lately?

Yarn Project Bag

2012-01-04T12:45:00.000-05:00

Used a Tilda pattern to make myself a new yarn project bag. Not from her new book (which is just OK), but from Sew Sunny Homestyle (probably my favorite of hers).

Used a vintage sheet for outside and a thrifted but newer sheet for the inside. What's great about this bag is that is stands up by itself. The secret is to line the outside pieces with a firm stabilizer (like Timtex). Super easy!

I just adore that polka dot lining. Makes me smile every time I grab a new hank of yarn from inside. Plus, this bag looks pretty sitting in my living room, waiting for me to start another project.

Gifts for Yourself

2012-01-01T11:35:00.000-05:00

Starbucks jumbo cups - now that's a perfect gift to me! I meant to put these on my Christmas list, but I forgot. So, when I went to Target/Starbucks yesterday, I had to get them. I'm always complaining that a standard coffee cup isn't big enough. I rarely order less than a Venti. So, happy days!

I have been doing lots of sewing this past week, and made up some new Nook, iPad and baby stuff for my Etsy shop. I really like how this baby shower gift set turned out.

This green iPad cover makes me wish I had an iPad.

I did get the new iPhone 4S, and I LOVE it! The camera is amazing. I can use it to take all of my Etsy shop pictures, and blog pictures. It was even better than my old digital camera, so we used it on Christmas - very pleased with the results.

What was your favorite gift this holiday?

Patchwork Posse Studio Feature

2011-12-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

Do you know about the Patchwork Posse site? It's a cool online place where you can mingle with quilters and also take very reasonably-priced online classes from great teachers like Pat Sloan. I really like

this concept.

In addition to all of the classes and patterns, the site also publishes a monthly e-zine. It's only $3 per month, and it includes several projects and patterns. It also includes a monthly studio feature.

Guess who's featured in the February 2012 edition just posted? Yep, that's right, it's me!

It was great inspiration to clean up the studio, and fun to work with Becky on the article.

Here's a sneak peak of my newly redecorated studio - check out Patchwork Posse magazine for even more pictures.

Merry Cupcake Christmas

2011-12-25T10:04:00.000-05:00

To make up for the grumpy bah humbug cat, thought I'd share my Cupcake trees. Now, they make me super happy! The top pink one is full of cupcake ornaments that one of my best friends Marybeth sent to me. Does she know me or does she know me?

The second is a close up of my white and pink tree with more cupcake ornaments from friends and family. I love these so much, I may not take them down after Christmas!!

Best wishes for a Merry Cupcake Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Bah Humbug

2011-12-22T11:35:00.000-05:00

I feel a bit like this cat today:

Why? Well, here's a snapshot of my week:

- On Sunday, my laptop died - turns out it was full of dust and was overheating. Warning to quilters: clean out the fans of your laptop if it's in your studio. (Found this out after I replaced the laptop and hubby tore apart the old one and made it work again by cleaning out all the dusty bunnies.)

- Yesterday, on the way to Hobby Lobby on I-95 (a major highway), I ran over a piece of sharp metal in the middle of the road, causing an instant tire blow-out. Had to pull over onto a tiny median and wait for AAA to come rescue me. Just after my van and 2 other cars ruined tires, State Police closed the road to clear the hazard. Then, it started to rain.

- Started car after AAA finished, a new check engine light was on (unrelated to the accident).

- Dropped car at service station to replace tire and check engine light. Son came to pick me up in his car. Knew he was low on gas. Seconds after I said "Are you sure you don't want to stop now for gas?" and he said "No, I can wait until we get near home", car ran out of gas. Had to call AAA for the SECOND time in one day. Turns out son was planning on coasting down hills to make the gas last.

Trying to rally and find some Christmas spirit. I did watch Elf last night, which helped a lot. It's become my favorite Christmas movie!

p.s. - no Thrifty Thursday this week. Note the cat picture above.

Crafty Christmas Trees, Last Minute Crafting

2011-12-19T09:54:00.002-05:00

Here's a collection of Crafty Christmas trees from blogland that I really like. Of course, I don't have time to make any of them this year. Bet I'm not the only crafter still working away on Christmas gifts.

I've been known to be working in the studio on Christmas morning (after we've opened presents with the kids) finishing up gifts to be delivered to family later in the day.

However, my personal all-time favorite last minute crafting story is my sister sewing on my wedding gown as I'm wearing it the morning of the wedding. (If I can find the picture, I'll scan it and post it later).

Please share your favorite crafting until the last minute story in the comments. I'll read them all and pick my favorite to win a handmade ornament from me.

Wire Christmas Tree by Better Homes & Gardens

Button Tree by Modern Minerals

Quilted Tree by Sew Inspired

Fabric Trees by Landee See, Landee Do

Last minute gift makers, start your creative engines!

What's Up with Quilted Cupcake?

2011-12-12T19:33:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm taking a little blogging break this week. I'll be back next week.

Tilda's Back!

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

I somehow missed the publication of the latest Tilda book, called Tilda's Studio. Where was I? Y'all know Tilda (aka Frank from Cleveland) is one of my favs. I stumbled upon it while doing some online shopping. I ordered it from Amazon on Sunday, and it arrived here on Wed. Sweet!

Her books never disappoint. I go back to them again and again. I'll let you know how I like this one once I've given myself permission to open it. I'm saving it -- I have so much to do for the upcoming holiday, I'm kind of afraid that once I open it, I'll only want to do Tilda projects, and all my Christmas projects and Etsy orders will be pushed aside.

Anyone read this one yet? If so, how do you like it?

Thrifty Thursday #8

2011-12-08T10:25:00.001-05:00

Here's my entry to this week's Thrifty Thursday:

It's actually 3 thrifty finds in one. I found the tea cup, saucer and doily at thrift shops. The buttons, too. They started out as white, and I dyed them pink using Rit dye - link here. Another Pinterest idea! White buttons are pretty common, so imagine the color possibilities!

Now, it's your turn. Show us what you're working on!

Cupcake Christmas Tree

2011-12-04T09:33:00.000-05:00

How cool is this pink cupcake tree at Macy's?

You know I couldn't walk out without buying a few of these ornaments.

I have a white tree, and I'm busy making cupcake ornaments for it, too. I'll post pics when it's all done.

Anthropologie Inspiration

2011-12-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

I love visiting my local Anthropologie store. Even if I don't buy anything, it's so inspirational! I love how the decor is almost 100% repurposed stuff. The card catalog cabinets alone are enough to make me drool every time. I'd so love one! I'll never find one now, though. Anthro's taking them all. LOL.

Here are a few of my favorites, including a few things I can't wait to try and recreate. (click on the picture for a bigger view)

I still can't believe I walked out without that teal and white baker's twine. However, since I found this tutorial on Pinterest to make it, I don't really need it. I can have any color I want! I've already made a batch of lime green.

And just wait until you see the awesome fun stuff I got at Macy's! More on that in an upcoming post.

Remember -- today's the last day for my Olfa Scissors giveaway. Be sure to click here and enter if you haven't! I'll announce winner on Sunday.

Thrifty Thursdays #7

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another edition of Thrifty Thursday, the spot to highlight all your best finds. Remember, I'm pretty flexible about the definition of "thrifty" - it doesn't have to be from a thrift store.

My entry for this week is especially close to my heart. It's the Fisher Price Little People sewing machine that I have pined over for 2 or 3 years. I've been looking for one locally, and no luck. Then, out of the blue, a sweet blog/podcast follower and Pinterest buddy, Lisa Ann, asked for my address, saying she wanted to send me something. Imagine my surprise and delight when I opened the package and found this:

Isn't that just the sweetest thing ever! I literally jumped up and down like a kid on Christmas morning. I've thanked her privately, but also want to take the chance to say publicly:

Lisa Ann, you ROCK!!!!!

Also, before we get to the linkies, I wanted to alert everyone that I'm doing a giveaway of the Olfa 5" precision scissors. Click here for entry instructions, or just scroll down a bit.

OK, Get those Linkies Ready!

Giveaway Time: Olfa Scissors

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

Great news! The Olfa folks have agreed to provide a pair of the 5" Olfa Precision Applique Scissors to one lucky blog follower. I reviewed them, and love them!

Entering to win these awesome scissors is easy. Two simple steps, or only one if you already follow my blog!

"Follow" my blog - see that group of sweet faces on the right sidebar labeled members with the "Join this site" button on top? Click on the button, and follow me.
Leave a comment on this post. Something like "I'm a follower" - easy peasy, right?

I'll choose a random winner from all the posts made by Saturday at 11:59 p.m. Note: Please be sure that I can find your email address from your post, so I can let you know if you won.

Cupcake Taggie Blanket: Supersized

2011-11-28T14:27:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a super Thanksgiving weekend (for those in the US). I had lots of time for sewing on my new Janome machine - loving it!

I finished a bunch of new Etsy orders, including this custom Super-sized Taggie blanket. It's all cupcake flannels and fleece. It's 48" x 48", with taggies all around.

It's such a joy to work with my favorite fabrics, and to know that this blanket will be going to a sweet little one year old for Christmas. Just call me Santa Cupcake!

I like the back almost as much as the front. Super soft pink and white polka dot fleece - seriously? Like I could leave that at the store? No way!

Also, BTW, wanted to let everyone know that I am going to be doing another QuiltedCupcake Project Night Night Challenge in early 2012. I decided to move it to after the holidays, so we'll all have more time to plan and quilt. I hope we can beat last year's 20 quilts.

And, remember, Thrifty Thursdays resumes this week! Get your linkies ready.

Product Review: Olfa Scissors

2011-11-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

I recently received a great pair of scissors to review from Olfa. The scissors are officially called the 5" Olfa Precision Applique Scissors. There's a lot to like about these babies. First off, they're super sharp, with great tips to really get into small places. I like the size, too. Not so small that I lose them all the time, but not so big that they're in my way. The holes for your fingers are a good size, too. Allows for lots of control.

The picture on the package shows another advantage - the blades continue up into the handles, making the scissors feel much more secure when you use them. No wobbly handles.

Although they're designed for applique, I found that they work just as well in my studio whenever I need a sharp pair of scissors. For example, I've been making these little pod cases. After you sew around the circle, it helps the case to lay flat after turning if you first use pinking shears on the edge, and then go back and clip the little "valleys" between the mountains. I know most of my other scissors wouldn't have been able to do that precision cut.

They're a great choice for really getting into the spots you need with accuracy.

The only drawback I can see is that they are a bit spendy at $24.99 MSRP; however, they are a quality cutting tool. And, you can probably find them at Joann's or Hobby Lobby and use a coupon.

I've asked the manufacturer for a pair to give away to blog readers, too. I'll let you know if that happens.

Note to readers: although I did receive these scissors free from the manufacturer, the opinion in this blog post is my true and accurate review. Whenever I review a product, I promise to give you the straight scoop. If I don't like something about a product, I'll let you know, whether I bought the product or not. Just so you know.

Janome Cover aka the Lunch Lady Apron

2011-11-21T16:23:00.000-05:00

I just finished my first project on my new Janome machine. I called it the "lunch lady apron" machine cover. I needed this design, as I'm keeping the extension table set up all the time. A traditional 4-sided cover wouldn't work. Here's a link to a bunch of great sewing machine cover tutorials created by The Tip Junkie.

For my version, I used sewing themed fabric found at Stitches, Etc. and basically made a little fleece backed quilt that would cover the machine. ~~Anyone know the fabric's designer? If so, please leave a note in comments.~~ ETA: Thanks, Edie for the details. The fabric is called Sew Border, from Makower UK. I'm not surprised - I love many of that company's fabrics.

The lunch lady name comes from the ties on the side. The ladies who always helped at my school's lunch hour (including my mom) always wore aprons that tied on the side. We called them lunch ladies, so that's the first thing that came to my mind when I added them to the cover.

The other good thing about this design is that it will also work if I don't have the table attached to the machine. When not in use, I'm hanging the cover up in my line of sight so I always remember to put it back on the machine when I'm closing down the studio for the day.

As part of my studio remodel, I also moved my thread holder to be right above my machine. So much easier. And, I added a smaller one below the original spool holder dedicated mostly to colored bobbin threads. Love having all that color right in front of me as I sew.

Thrifty Thursday #6

2011-11-17T22:37:00.000-05:00

Thrifty Thursday's here. After my big purchase yesterday, I need all the thrifty ideas I can find.

Note: this will be the last Thrifty Thursday until 12/1 - taking next week off due to Thanksgiving here in the U.S.

So, let's get this week started. Remember, this party's pretty flexible. Thrifty crafts, yard sale goodies, recipes, anything that relates to Thrifty is OK to add.

Janome in the House!

2011-11-16T09:14:00.001-05:00

After much consideration, research and justification, this baby's now sitting in my (still unorganized) studio. It's the Janome 6300P Memory Craft Professional. After this past weekend's quilt marathon, I realized it was time to invest in a professional quality machine. My Singer Confidence Quilter (only about a year old) has been acting up, making it harder and harder to use. Honestly, I think I just worked it into the ground! The 6300P is perfect for me. It has all the things I wanted, and none of the stuff I won't use. And, it's FAST!

At $1,000, it wasn't an easy decision to make. However, after just one evening of sewing, I don't think I'll be regretting it. Besides, I think this sewing thing is going to last for me - it's not a phase.

Look for a more complete review once I've put her through her paces. And, she needs a name.

Anyone out there have this machine? Please let me know what you think.

TuTu Tree Tutorial

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Regular blog followers (or podcast listeners) know that I'm a big fan of all things Pink. With 4 males in the house (including the dog), I don't get to use much pink. So, I decided to make myself an over-the-top Pink Christmas tree for my studio. It's a TuTu Tree!

I originally saw a similar idea on Pinterest, but the tree was made with netting. I didn't care for the big holes and "rough" appearance. It was an easy project, but the directions were a little hard to follow. So, I changed it up to make it softer and girly with fine tulle and created an easy tutorial with pictures. I can see making these in multiple shades. So, if pink's not your thing, pick your favorite color and go nuts!

My tree uses 1/2 of a dowel as the base, and measures about 18 inches tall . If you want a bigger tree, you use the whole dowel and add more layers.

Here's the Quilted Cupcake Tutu Tree Tutorial

if you want to make your own.

Supplies:

4 yards of fine mesh tulle (Joann's has a whole aisle of tulle in many colors). Pick whatever color you like

1 Wooden dowel - about 1/2" diameter, but just about any size will do.

Thread and needle

Candlestick with an opening or a container filled with rocks to hold the finished tree

Bow for the top (optional)

Step One: Cut dowel in half.

Step Two: Cut the tulle

You need to cut the tulle into a bunch of long strips, each the width of the tulle. You may find it easier to do if you cut your piece of tulle into two 2-yard pieces, so it's easier to handle.

The best way to cut this slippery fabric is to fold the tulle with selvage sides together and then, fold again. So, if your tulle was 72" wide to start, you'll have a folded piece that's 4 (or 2) yards long and 18 inches wide.

Now, lay the folded tulle on your cutting mat and use a rotary cutter and ruler to slice sections in decreasing widths, beginning with 15", then 14", 13", 12", and so on, until you run out of tulle. Each new cut is one inch shorter than the previous cut. (If you're doing a bigger tree, the same principle applies, start with the widest cut and then do each cut after one inch less)

Note: these cuts don't have to be military precise, just pretty close. It won't matter if you're a little off.

If you're fussy, you may want to note the size of each section you cut with a piece of masking tape, so you'll know the correct order for later assembly. I didn't do that, but you could (I'm thinking of people like my sister Kelly, who would never accept just eyeballing that step).

When you're done cutting your ever-decreasing pieces of tulle, it will look like this:

Step Three: Sew and gather the layers

Next, you have to fold each piece of tulle in half, long sides together and sew along the raw edges. So, you'll have a bunch of sections that are 72" long and 7.5 inches wide, 7 inches wide, 6.5 inches wide, and so on.

Hand sew a long gathering stitch along the open end of each section. Don't sew on the folded side - that will be the outside of the tree. It's all starting to make sense now, isn't it?

I found using hand quilting thread in a matching color works well for this step. You could also use embroidery thread. It's important to use thread that's pretty sturdy, as this makes the structure of the tree possible.

After you've sewn a wide stitch all along the top, pull on each end to gather the section. Don't tie off yet - that comes next. You'll end up with a big pile of puffy things like this - I put mine in a bag after I gathered each, to be sure I didn't lose any.

This is a good TV-watching craft activity. It's the step of the process that takes the longest. You could probably do this on a sewing machine, but I didn't want to fiddle with tulle and a gathering stitch.

Step Four: Assembly

Place the dowel inside the sturdy container you're using for the base. I found an old candlestick that could hold the dowel and keep everything nice and straight. You could also use a pail or even a mason jar full of marbles or rocks. It won't be a super heavy tree, so you're just looking for a sturdy base.

Now, starting with the largest puffy gathered section, begin to tie each section to the dowel. (Now's when labeled sections would come in handy. Or, just eyeball it like I did.)

Tie a knot in back of the dowel, and then wrap the string around once more, and knot again for extra strength. Adjust the tulle until you're happy with how it looks, and then cut the ends of the gathering string. Continue all the way up the dowel, adding the next smallest section each time.

When you're all done, you can add a bow or even a tree topper of some sort. I'm on the hunt for a good one to match my tree. Until then, I just tied a ribbon to the top of the dowel.

Feel free to share photos or the tutorial on your blog, just please link back to this post.

Please let me know if you have any questions. And, if you make a TuTu Tree, please add it to my Quilted Cupcake Flickr group.

Linking to:

Making the World Cuter
Pinkapotamus
Dittle Dattle

Fun Tutu-torial coming on Monday

2011-11-12T08:15:00.001-05:00

Psst- be sure to check the blog on Monday. I'm working on a new tutorial. Here's a hint:

LOL! I promise this dude's not really involved with the tutorial.

Thrifty Thursdays #5

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's Thrifty Thursday again! Thanks again to everyone who's been joining the party. If you haven't joined the fun yet, please consider adding your own fun, crafty, thrifty blog posts, too. I'd love to see what everyone's working on. Remember, it doesn't have to be a new post, or a post made on a Thursday. Older posts are fine, too.

Here's my latest thrifty sewing find:

My mom had one of these wooden sewing boxes, and my boys loved to play with it, stretching the accordion-like shelves in and out. It's been on my "find one at a thrift store" list for a while. I got this one recently for about $5 - the bonus was that inside it, and included for the same price, were 2 pairs of scissors, and the tool for attaching snaps. Score!

Once I got it home, I realized that I probably have way too many sewing notions for this baby to hold them all. So, I converted it into my Etsy shipping station. It's perfect! Now, I can easily find all the bits and pieces I need when I'm pulling together a shipment. The only thing it doesn't hold is the envelopes. Hoping this will make the holiday shipping a bit easier.

OK, Your Turn!

Show us What Crafty Thrifty Things You've Been Doing!

Preparing for the Holidays

2011-11-09T08:43:00.000-05:00

I'm working hard to prepare my Etsy shop for the holidays. My sister and I are going to a 12 hour sewing marathon this Saturday, hosted by our guild. That should help. It's a great deal - only $5, plus a pot luck dish.

Here are a few new things I've added to my shop recently:

A chalkboard play mat, great for keeping the kiddos quiet and busy. It rolls up for storage. Really fun playing with the chalkboard fabric. I can't wait to make more of these.

Lots of fun Kindle and Nook covers.

I also updated my fabric choices for custom order laptop or tablet cases - you can click on the pictures to make them larger.

Anyone else out there feel like Santa preparing the workshop for Christmas?

Quilt Bingo Winner

2011-11-07T11:06:00.001-05:00

My sisters and I recently went to our first quilt bingo, sponsored by our guild. So much fun! All the prizes were quilted or handmade items donated by members. If you won, you got to pick your favorite. I had my eye on this baby all night, thought it would go early. It was still there when I won (note: I've only played bingo a few times in my life, never won). My sister says I almost knocked someone else over to get to it. I dispute that claim - there was a clear path. ;)

I love the colors, and the quilting. No label, so I'm not sure who made it, but we think it was done by a local quilt studio. Love the floral design. It's a generous lap quilt size. I was just so thrilled to win.

Both of my sisters also won, as did everyone at our table. Lucky, fun night!

Thrifty Thursdays #4

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

Thrifty Thursday is back! I've been hard at work on a ton of thrifty projects, and can't wait to share them all with you here.

Thanks to everyone who added links last week - let's see if we can break last week's record of 14 posts!

Here's my thrifty score of the week - another ReStore find. I got an email on Saturday suggesting that I brave the icky rain/sleet weather to visit ReStore because they were offering 20% off the Entire Store! How's a girl supposed to resist that?

I went looking for old desk drawers that I could upcycle. Found them for $1 each (0.80 after the discount). But that's not even the best deal. My heart started beating a little faster when I turned the corner and saw this:

It was love at first sight. It reminds me of a bedside table, but it's bigger. I made up my own "sold" sign and slapped it on it, also removing the price to show to the cashier. I was so afraid someone else would buy it before I could! It's perfectly distressed - better than I could have done if I tried to do it myself. I'm going to use it in my new shabby chic style studio as a place to display some antique sewing machines and other vintage goodies. Oh, and after the discount, it was $20! I'm going to change out the hardware, so I'll post "after" pictures when she's all done and accessorized.

OK, now it's your turn - what's been happening in your crafty/thrifty world? Link it up below:

Studio Update

2011-11-02T11:57:00.004-04:00

Well, half the floor is done in the basement/studio area. Now, I'm purging and organizing. Hard to stay on track. I'm making good use of my Pinterest Creative Studio Spaces board to remind me of the ideas I want to try. Also, here's a new site I just found that has lots of studio storage ideas, cleverly called Crafty Storage.

As I'm going through this process, I'm wondering if anyone out there has great sewing storage ideas to share. If so, please leave them in the comments.

Has anyone done the comic book board thing shown on Smashed Peas and Carrots?

And, don't forget, tomorrow's Thrifty Thursday - we had more entries than ever last week (14). Let's see if we can top that this week. I know you have great stuff you can share. I'm pretty flexible - if it's thrifty in any way, please add it to the party!

Construction Zone

2011-10-30T10:26:00.000-04:00

Here's what my studio looks like this weekend:

We're installing a new plank floor in the basement (site of Quilted Cupcake HQ), so everything had to be move to one side. Man, what an undertaking this has been (mostly for my DH). Why do DIY projects always take more time and money than you estimate?

Next step is to weed through all my stuff and re-organize. That's the part I really like (no, seriously). The studio needs a good thinning - already took a ton of stuff to the thrift store and gave away 9 boxes of scrapbook paper via Freecyle. That's another thing I learned this weekend - it's hard to give things away! I put the offer up, got 20+ responses. Emailed the first reply, who said they'd be over in the morning, so I waited. No show. Set up another time, no show. Finally went back to the replies 2 more times before a very nice young mom showed up to take it all.

Don't fear, my scrapbook buddies - I still have an XXL full of scrapbook paper.

I can't WAIT to get back in my studio. It's driving me crazy waiting for hubby to finish the floor on side one. Patience is not my strong suit. But, it will be worth the wait. Look how cool it is already:

I'm thinking of doing a Shabby Chic theme. Stay tuned for more details.....

p.s. - the kids have been doing "planking" jokes all weekend - cracks me up!

Thrifty Thursday #3

2011-10-27T10:39:00.003-04:00

Thrifty Thursday #3 is finally here. Sorry it's a bit late - had to turn the power off to fix the stove.

Let's make this one the biggest yet! Remember, you can link to an older post from your blog. I know you have something you can showcase.

Each link party lasts a whole week, so if you think of something to add on Saturday, come on back and add it.

Here's my entry, a non-Zombie Santa. It's a card or napkin holder. So well made and kitschy! Only cost 50 cents!

OK, let's link!

Holiday Finds and a Zombie Santa?

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

Found a bunch of great holiday decorations at the bi-annual Nearly New Sale. Total paid for all: $3.50. I love vintage holiday ornaments of all kinds - they definitely come with some history embedded.

Check out these hand-knit and crocheted bells and angels. The small red and white bells even have small jingle bells in them. The starched white bells are so dainty and pretty. I send happy thoughts out to whoever made them. Glad I could give them a good home.

The decorations were grouped and sold by the bag, and there were a few duds. I didn't notice how freaky one of the Santas was until I was taking photos. Does he look like strange, or have I just been too excited by the new season of The Walking Dead? Creepy eyes, and what the heck are those weapons hanging from his belt? I'm going with Zombie Santa. Now, I kinda want to keep him. He'll go well with my sparkly gold elf I found earlier this year.

My Appliances are Plotting Against Me

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

Glad I took pictures of this lovely cinnamon roll cake, a recipe found of course on Pinterest. Super easy to make - uses the economy Pillsbury biscuits. Here's the recipe link - it's called the Sticky Bun Breakfast Ring.

Check out the glazed goodness when you pop the pan over:

Turns out it was the last thing I made before my oven stopped working this weekend. I believe it's been talking to the new dishwasher I had to buy last month, who was shamed by new refrigerator I bought in July. I swear, that darn fridge has been secretly boasting about how shiny and new it is, making the other kitchen appliances feel bad. They're all the same age (9), so that might have something to do with the sudden mutiny.

Luckily, the hubby found the starter the oven needs, and he can fix it for about $80. I'm very lucky to have a handy husband. That man's saved us a lot of money over the years.

BTW, Anyone know where I can get earplugs for a microwave? I don't want it to get any big ideas.....:)

Thrifty Thursdays

2011-10-20T08:47:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Thrifty Thursdays #2. A big thank you to everyone who added links last week. I found some new blogs to follow, and great things to add to my Pinterest board as future projects.

Important note about Thrifty Thursdays: It's absolutely fine to link up an older project or post. And, you don't have to create a special post to participate. You can edit an old post to add the TT button. Each party will remain open for 7 days, so if you're late, it's still OK to add a thrifty find. Link away!

Here are my two Thrifty Finds of the Week:

First is a yard of retro Christmas fabric. Longtime followers know of my love of vintage Christmas decor, so this was a real treat. It's hard to find Christmas fabric with pink, so double bonus!

The second is an old fan, which I've been looking for since I started my thrifty trips. These are really popular, and usually pricey. Would you believe, after traveling all over the East Coast, I finally found an affordable fan about 2 miles from my house? Just $10. Not sure if I'm just going to clean it, or if I'm also going to repaint it. What do you think?

OK, now it's your turn to share. Post your links to thrifty projects you've done. My interpretation of thrifty is very broad - if you found fabric for a great price, that's a thrifty find. Can't wait to see what's added this week!

Too funny Not to Share - I have a Swagger Wagon, too!

2011-10-19T13:07:00.001-04:00

Thrifty Thursdays - Weekly Blog Party at Quilted Cupcake!

2011-10-12T16:35:00.001-04:00

New to the Quilted Cupcake blog - a weekly Blog Link Party. I've participated in lots of these, and I love finding a ton of inspiration in one place. So, I've decided to start my own, called "Thrifty Thursdays."

Each Thursday here on the blog, you can share thrifty projects that you've done, along with a link back to your blog. Even if you don't want to share a link, it's a great way to get a snapshot view of lots of projects.

Here are some examples of the types of projects to submit (found on Flickr).

A great wreath by JeniB that uses stripes of vintage sheets:

A clever vintage hollowed-out book safe by Teal Stripes.

A bunch of vintage fabric primitive dolls by Grrl+dog:

So, let's get this party started! I added my Tiara suitcase as an example. Let me know if you have any questions. Please share or tweet to anyone who likes thrifty, vintage, retro fun stuff.

Vintage Sheet Charm Packs

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

I just added vintage sheet listings back to my Etsy shop. With a twist this time. I'm offering Vintage Sheet Charm Packs. Each charm pack includes 40 of the popular 5 inch charm squares, plus 5 bonus squares.

Lots of people have asked when or if I'd be offering vintage sheets again, and the recent purchase of the AccuQuilt sparked the idea of making them more user-friendly

Plus, I thought they'd be a good way for new vintage sheet fans to try out a variety of different prints, without hunting down a bunch of vintage linens. Since I'm cutting them using my AccuQuilt, they're very accurate.

For now, I only have 4 packs available. I'm planning to add more, based on demand. Check them out at my Etsy Shop.

I love playing with these fabrics, and using them in new and unique ways. Look for some new projects coming soon.

My Vintage Tiara

2011-10-11T09:59:00.000-04:00

Every girl wants a Tiara, and I finally got one. Ha! It's the model name on my new American Tourister Vintage Train Case. Found at Goodwill for $6. I would have preferred a prettier outside color, but the inside of this makes up for the plain outside.

The inside is in perfect shape - it even still had a bar of hotel soap from the Williamsburg Lodge in it. And, I love the removable tray.

I so wish the vintage goodies came with a back story. Since they don't, I usually make up my own in my head. I imagine a sweet young lady used this when she traveled to Williamsburg with her new husband. Maybe the case was even part of a wedding gift of luggage. Soon after the trip, they started a family, so she didn't get a chance to travel as much, which is why it's in such great shape. Can you think of a better story? If so, please share in the comments.

I'm using it as my travel sewing case. It's so much easier to keep a case of the essentials (rotary cutter, pins, machine needles, bobbins, etc.) packed and ready to go to craft events, classes, get-togethers, etc. I find that having this essentials bag always packed makes me more likely to attend out-of-studio events, and have the things I need when I get there.

I've had great luck at thrift stores lately. Check back for more finds soon. I'm thinking of starting "Thrifty Thursdays" here on the blog. What do you think?

Windowpane Pillow

2011-10-06T07:30:00.000-04:00

Windowpane pillow, made with bright Kaffe prints and white. Nice pattern for charm pack squares. Sort of reminds me of a giant nine patch. Add sashing to 5" charm squares, and then bind.

For the back, I got to use more of my favorite modern thrifted sheet - this polka dot pattern is on several projects, and I still have lots left. It's a Target sheet, and is super soft.

The turquoise binding was originally going to be "piping" that's sewn as part of the sandwich. It didn't work out the way I liked, so I layered it as if a quilt, and bound the edges with the already cut turquoise.

This is on my couch, and I know the kids like it. I had to clean nacho cheese drips off it before I could take photos. Ah, motherhood.....:)

I Love Lucy

2011-10-05T12:31:00.000-04:00

Here's my finished "I Love Lucy" mini quilt. It uses blocks from the Bonnie K. Hunter "Crumbs" class. Lots of my mom's fabric scraps incorporated, plus purple for Alzheimer's Awareness.

And, yes, I did include a label on the back - trying to get better about that!

Check out podcast episode 48 for more details! More projects to come from latest Podcast episode!

Episode 48 is Posted!

2011-10-02T12:09:00.001-04:00

Just finished and posted Podcast Episode 48, called "What's Up Cupcake?" I'll add show notes later in the week. This episode includes a review of my new Accu-Quilt machine, which I bought on sale.

Vintage Sheet Find

2011-10-01T11:26:00.000-04:00

I found this awesome 70's retro print sheet on a recent trip to Goodwill. I love the great colors. The best thing about it (besides the $2 price) -- this baby was brand new. Never been used, or washed. It still had the "sizing" stiffness, and the colors were still super bright. Could be my best vintage sheet find of the year!

I think I may make a tablecloth from it. It matches my dining room perfectly!

Heart Doll Quilt

2011-09-29T09:14:00.001-04:00

Another UFO completed. This was an orphan heart block that I decided to turn into a doll quilt for my Etsy shop. I backed it with fleece, which makes it nice and snuggly.

I also tried something new with the free motion quilting on this one. Podcast listeners may remember that whenever I do free motion, I always include at least one heart in the pattern. It's my little signature. For this one, I added a bunch of hearts throughout the quilting. I thought it would be fun for the recipient to count the hearts, like a little mystery to solve. I'm going to include a sealed envelope for the buyer with the correct answer.

Speaking of dolls and such, check out this adorable little homemade wardrobe that a friend's daughter made for her American Girl doll clothes. It's an upcycled cardboard box! She turned her closet into a special room for her American Girl dolls. Of course they then needed their own closet, too. I think she may have a future as an interior designer. She already understands the importance of using space wisely....

Four Square Quilt: Done!

2011-09-27T11:06:00.000-04:00

I spent this weekend finishing up some UFOs. Why don't I do this more often? It provides such instant gratification, just spending a bit of time on half-done projects to turn them into finished loveliness.

The best finish was the Four Square quilt. Longtime Quilted Cupcake podcast listeners or blog followers may remember this quilt- it was the very first full size quilt I ever started, in 2009. It was featured on my first podcast episode and second blog post ever. Check it out here - we've come a long way since then! In fact, I had to go back and add a title to that post - it didn't have one!

The pattern, called Four Square, is from Quilts & More, Spring 2008. It was also featured on the cover of a BH&G book, Easy Quilt Projects.

I quilted it in strips, and then assembled them to make the quilt. Because I'm hard-headed, I did it my own way. I'm sure there are better ways to quilt as you go, but I did what worked for me. Before I did another quilt this way, I'd probably want to learn a better technique. The good part of my "technique" (losing the term loosely here) is that it allowed me to do a lot of free motion quilting without struggling with a full size quilt. I started this quilt well before I purchased the Singer 201-2 with the big harp.

I decided to piece the binding, using strips of fabric from the quilt. Really happy with how that turned out.

The quilt's somewhere between full and queen size, which means taking pictures of it (when you're short like me) is a challenge, as shown below:

Here it is on my new bed with the headboard I made (Look for a new tutorial coming soon on my easy headboard project!)

It's backed in flannel, so it's very snuggly and warm, definitely a winter quilt. I think I'll give this one to my hubby. We each like having our own covers - that way, nobody gets cold. Yes, we've been married 20+ years - little things like separate covers make us happy.

I'll share more about this quilt in my next podcast, which I'm planning to record this weekend.

Outside the Comfort Zone

2011-09-22T07:30:00.000-04:00

Got to spend a lot of time crafting last weekend. So, lots of new stuff for my shop. In addition to my normal stuff, I challenged myself to try some new ideas.

One of my favorites is this Robot Nook Cover. It started life as a Target tote bag. I fell in love with the design. I cut it up, added a velcro closure top and sewed the sides together with a fleece lining.

I also tried something new with my iPad sleeves - free motion quilting on a solid color, instead of a print. I'm kinda digging it! I'm thinking this idea could be a neat color-blocked quilt with solids.

I love going outside my comfort zone and trying new ideas, especially in the crafting world. That's what keeps me going, and inspires me. How about you? What do you find inspiring? Let us know in the comments.

Mini Cupcake Quilt

2011-09-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

Thanks to a longtime Quilted Cupcake follower, Janet M., who sent me a link to a very cute mini cupcake quilt, from the C&T Publishing Book, Cupcakes!

Best of all, it's a free pattern (my favorite kind!) Click here to visit C&T for the pattern download and instructions for the quilt.

Please let me know if you've tried this pattern. And, remember to add your pictures to the Quilted Cupcake Flickr group. I check it frequently to see what everyone's been making - we're up to 600 photos!

Purple Friday on the Blog

2011-09-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

In the Baltimore area, we celebrate Purple Friday. It's mostly during football season, but some people do it all year long. Everyone wears their Ravens jerseys, tshirts, etc. to "Paint the Town Purple." The schools encourage it, even among teachers. Many businesses, including banks, and retail stores, bend the rules and allow employees to wear Ravens shirts. In fact, I just had to buy my hubby a Ravens shirt that he can wear to work - he was the only person not wearing purple last Friday.

It's fun to go out on Friday and see how many people you spot in purple. And, yes, I now have my own Joe Flacco jersey.

If you can't wear official Ravens gear, you can also wear anything purple, which is what inspired this knitted scarf. Good news is that this project looks a lot harder than it is.

The stitch pattern was just hard enough to be interesting, just easy enough to do while watching TV. Of course, found it on Ravelry. It's called the One Row Lace Lace Scarf by Turvid, and it's a free pattern.

I used my new favorite cotton yarn, called I Love This Cotton from Hobby Lobby. It's so soft and great to work with, and it even has great stitch definition. Much softer than Lily Sugar n' Cream, my other favorite cotton.

So sorry if you're a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, but that opening game was Awesome!

Raggedy Ann Vintage Find

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Spotted this adorable vintage Raggedy Ann and Andy ceramic wall plaque at the Goodwill this week. It was done by hand - my favorite kind of ceramics. Check out the cool 70's mushrooms. Whoever painted this did such a great job, and it was in excellent condition - 2 small chips that are hardly noticeable. And, it only cost $3! I figure it must be 30-40 years old - I wish these vintage goodies could talk, and tell you their story.

It's already hanging in my studio. Makes me smile whenever I see it!

Raggedy Ann, Mrs. Beasley (From A Family Affair) and Baby Tender Love were my favorite dolls when I was little. Who was your favorite childhood doll?

Halloween Trick or Treat Bags

2011-09-13T09:27:00.000-04:00

Here are the Halloween Trick or Treat bags I made for my Etsy shop.

I love the fabric on this one - can't go wrong with polka dots!

I decided to add a front pocket to this one:

I always found the traditional plastic pails to be hard for the kids to carry, and they were always spilling. I made something like this for my youngest son, and it worked so much better!

Any ideas for other themes I can try? I was thinking about maybe a princess bag...hmmmm..

Halloween Project from Patrick Lose

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I love Halloween. Pumpkins are a particular favorite. I found this quilted wall hanging project by Patrick Lose in a Fons & Porter publication called Quilting Celebrations, Winter 2010 edition.

I made a few tiny changes to the original pattern. I decided to use raw-edge applique with black thread rather than the heavier satin stitch suggested in the pattern. I also added a button to the eye. I can't wait to hang it up!

I'd never heard of Patrick Lose before, but I'll definitely be checking out his work now. There is a new issue of Quilting Celebrations coming out on 9/27 - I can already tell this one will have some great projects, too. Check out the cover - I love that black cat!

So, please educate me, as I've obviously been living under a rock. Have you done any Patrick Lose projects? If so, please leave a comment, with a link if you can, so I can find more!

Modern Retro Kitchen Projects

2011-09-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've been wanting to make some new kitchen decor items for a while now. While my kitchen is modern, with a new stainless steel fridge I didn't want to buy, but love now, I like the decorations to be vintage. It's a good place to use my retro-modern mash-up theme that started with my retro dishtowels.

So, this weekend, I made a new toaster cover that utilizes retro scraps from my bed quilt in a Bonnie K. Hunter piecing design, paired with linen, also called Zakka. After I pieced them together, I cut the pattern out as if it was just a piece of fabric.

The free motion quilting on this sort of looks like steam, don't you think?

For my second project, I pulled out a panel I had purchased in Lancaster a long while back. I knew I wanted to use it in the kitchen, but wasn't sure how.

The original panel, called Sweet Pea by Anna Lena looked like this:

But, shocking as it may seem, I wasn't happy with the uneven design. Unlike my usual wonky self, I wanted this to be more lined up (my sisters are now thinking that yes, I do share some DNA with them).

So, I fussy cut the dresses I liked, and re-sewed them together nice and neat. I then added a border and free motion quilted the whole thing. The pink rick rack was a late addition, and I think it adds a nice border.

Hootenanny

2011-09-04T11:20:00.000-04:00

Another fun recipe from Pinterest. It's called Hootenanny. Yes, Hootenanny. The name alone made it worth trying. It's now officially my second favorite word - next to my #1 - Doppleganger. This recipe has also been called Oven Pancakes.

Super easy breakfast recipe - Hootenanny

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Melt 1/2 stick of butter in 9 x13 glass pan while doing the next part:
Mix together: 6 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1/4 tsp. salt
Once that's frothy, add in 1 cup flour, mix until blended
Pour batter in pan with melted butter. Don't mix - you're done.
Cook for 20 - 30 minutes. It will puff up and look dramatic.
When done, cut in pieces, serve with syrup or jelly.

Next time, I'm going to try adding cheddar cheese to the mix, to make it more savory. I'll report back!

Has anyone else made this? Any ideas for toppings, variations?

Quilted Cupcake Podcast 47 Show Notes

2011-08-30T15:56:00.000-04:00

QuiltedCupcake Podcast Episode 47 has been posted. It's all about my recent Southern Travels to Washington, D.C. and Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC.

Here are the links from the episode:
Fabric Finds:
Michael Miller cupcake fabric - called Sweet Treats

Lizzie B creative Hip Happy

Patterns:

Cute little wallet pattern valori wells

Manhattan handbag pattern by Pink Sand Beach designs

Aunties Two pattern: Bow n go flip flops

Dishcloth Crochet Pattern: Dessert Cloths by Kris Knits

Chapel Hill/Raleigh Durham Shopping:

PTA thrift shop -- I think EVERY city should have one of these!

Locopops: Popsicle store Chapel hill

Washington, DC links:

Baked and Wired, Georgetown

Star Spangled Banner

Fords Theatre

Valentine String Quilt: Work in Progress

2011-08-25T13:32:00.000-04:00

I started this string diamond quilt a long time ago (January), and had about half of the blocks pieced. With my time off, I finally finished the remaining 26 this week. I'm so in love with it! The pattern is called "Valentine" from Elizabeth Hartman's The Practical Guide to Patchwork: New Basics for the Modern Quiltmaker - I reviewed the book on Episode 40 of the podcast.

I'm thinking about turning it into a duvet cover, rather than a quilt. Any thoughts? Should I worry about not quilting down all those bias strips? I'll need to wash this regularly, so any input would be helpful.

Quilted Table Runner

2011-08-22T09:17:00.000-04:00

I've wanted to make a quilted table runner like this for a long time. I used strips of my favorite repro fabrics, and randomly sewed them together until I reached 5 feet long. Funny thing is that it didn't turn out as wonky as I had hoped. I guess that's what happens when you don't measure anything but the final length, but that's OK by me.

I plan to use it to cover my triple dresser in my bedroom.

I used a lot of the same fabrics I used on my bed quilt, so it will match nicely.

I'm taking this whole week off - yippee! Planning some fun with the kids, and lots of sewing and crafting!

Butterfly Wrap

2011-08-19T10:17:00.000-04:00

I'm calling this my Butterfly Hybrid wrap. It's made of all those single balls of Noro Silk Garden, and other random pretty yarns I found in my stash. It started as a knitted project, and ended as a knit and crochet project. The pattern I started with is called the Feather and Fan Comfort Shawl, by Sarah Bradberry via Ravelry.

I was totally inspired by this one by MagpieIma on Ravelry.

After three times losing count and frogging (rip it, rip it) back several inches, I decided to change the bottom to crochet, which is a bit more forgiving.

I'm happy that I switched to crochet, as it resulted in a a nice drape, and it's plenty big enough to really wrap myself up in it this winter. I may even be able to use it instead of a coat.

When it's all spread out, it looks like Butterfly wings. I'll take a picture as I'm blocking it to show the whole thing.

And, yes, only a true knitting freak knits a heavy wrap with all wool yarn during one of the hottest summers in Maryland.

Flowers Make Me Happy

2011-08-17T10:05:00.000-04:00

Not a lot to say today, working on a bunch of home dec projects that I'll be posting soon.
Thought I'd share some pics I took of these lovely hydrangeas I gathered from my sister's garden. I wish I had space for flowers; instead, I get them from my sisters.

Flower Photo tip: spray the petals with a fine mist to add more texture.

Cute Little Wallet

2011-08-12T08:22:00.000-04:00

A girl can never have too many wallets and purses, right? So when I saw this Valori Wells pattern for $3 at a local quilt shop, I had to buy it. I love the shape. Here's the link to the pattern.

With all these bright colors, it won't be hard to find inside my bag! Instead of the snap shown on the pattern, I used velcro to close it. I find that usually holds up better than a hand-sewn snap.

I'm going to use it as a business card holder.

BTW, check out Valori's free tutorial/pattern on her blog for a grocery tote - looks very do-able! She also has several other free patterns, and lots of inspiration!

Sewing Spools Studio Mini Quilt

2011-08-10T09:39:00.000-04:00

I saw this spool quilt idea posted on Pinterest, and I couldn't wait to try it. You can download the free PDF pattern at AllPeopleQuilt.com. This is going to hang in my studio - it has all my favorite colors.

I'm happy with how the free motion quilting turned out. I also liked how the sample had straight lines to represent thread on the spools. My one modification was to change the sewing machine included. The original had a sort of abstract foundation pieced machine that didn't really work for me. Instead, I did a google search and found a simple machine image that I liked.

Here's a link to a similar one by A Lemon Squeezy home.

I saved the drawing, flipped it, printed it, and traced onto fusible applique paper. I like that it sorta looks like my Singer 201-2. I added the little heart. I still need to hand embroider the spool of thread on top of the machine.

Purple Pride

2011-08-06T17:51:00.000-04:00

This is where I spent part of my Saturday, at The Ravens open practice at M&T Stadium.

Got to see my fav, QB Joe Flacco, in action.

Even got a great deal on a jersey. We like to wear purple on Fridays here in the Baltimore area.

So glad the labor dispute is over. Can't wait for the season!

OK, headed down to the studio for some sewing.

Vintage Suitcase Re-Do Tutorial

2011-08-04T08:20:00.000-04:00

My vintage suitcase tutorial has been posted on

Sew Can Do's Craft Share 2011.

Click on link above to get details for turning this:

Into this:

Thanks to Cheryl for inviting me to participate. It was fun, and I learned so much during the process! I'd never done a guest post before, and she was so sweet in helping me to figure out the details.

Easy Crocheted Bag

2011-07-30T07:52:00.000-04:00

Believe it or not, one of the easiest bags I've ever made. Definitely the best knit/crochet bag. I finished it in only 2 days! It's from a free pattern called Crochet Hobo Bag found on Ravelry. Created by Dao at Just One More Line

I'll give more details on the next podcast. Couldn't wait to share the bag, though.

Quilted Cupcake Episode 46 is Posted

2011-07-26T07:40:00.000-04:00

New podcast episode (Episode 46: This And That) has been posted. I promise it's not too gruesome, even though it felt like I'd be telling you a story that ended with my hand looking like this:

(Image: http://napalmkitty.wordpress.com/)

Now I, have one of these:O'Lipfa Safety Shield Ruler Guard - 3 Pack and I promised my hubby that I'd use them.

Upcoming Owl Project: Before

2011-07-19T13:13:00.000-04:00

I found this cool metal owl at a thrift store. I think it was a kitchen trivet from the last time owls were trendy. Yikes- can avocado-colored kitchen appliances be far behind?

Anyhow, I want to paint it, but not sure what color to make him. My kitchen is mostly a sunflower gold, with dark red accents. Any suggestions? Please leave me your ideas in the comments below. I'm tempted to go with teal, because I'm painting everything teal, but don't know if that's best.

BTW, do you know about the Benjamin Moore Color Capture application? It's a free little ap that lets you snap a picture of a color inspiration that catches your eye and you can instantly find its match from Benjamin Moore's more than 3,300 paint colors.

Also, still working on the next QuiltedCupcake podcast - just have lots happening in my "real" work life, including some out-of-town travel. I'll post here, on FB and Twitter when the next show is posted.

Cupcake Purses

2011-07-12T12:50:00.000-04:00

Cute cupcake purses I recently found at thrift store. Doubt I'll be carrying them to my next client meeting, but they do make nice decorations for my studio! Cost for both: $1.00. I love a bargain!

Working on the next podcast. Have some research to do, waiting for a few books. Topic will be Shabby Chic / Cottage Style. Should be complete this week some time. I'll tweet when it's posted!

Crochet Flower Garland Tutorial

2011-07-09T12:35:00.001-04:00

Garland, Banners, Pennants. Whatever you call them, I love them. I can't seem to get enough of them. Here's a quick tutorial for making your own crochet flower garland.

If you need the flowers, check out my tutorial here, or visit my Etsy shop, where I recently listed a set of handmade flowers. I couldn't wait to make something that I could photograph using my beautiful new jewelry tea cup stand, by TeaTimesCreations on Etsy - check out her shop for more lovely stands. How pretty is this:

Anyhow, making your own garland is pretty easy. Here are the steps in a handy little photo tutorial. Just click on it make it larger:

Another Use for Aprons

2011-07-07T10:57:00.000-04:00

Another idea I found on Pinterest. Love how my aprons look tied on the kitchen stools. And, they're handy when I need them, too. Remember that layer cake apron? It's from way back in Podcast Episode 6!

So, have you used any of those cool ideas you've pinned? I'm happy to say I've used several, especially recipes. Our favorites have been Chicken Taco Casserole, Crockpot Pulled Pork (so simple - just pork loin plus root beer) and the 30 minute crusty French Bread. Next recipe I'm trying is Oreo Cupcakes.

We did the cupcake fondue, shockingly enough, it was just OK. The cupcakes sorta fell apart when you dipped them in the frosting. The kids liked it, but not sure I'd do them again.

Happy Camper

2011-07-05T11:28:00.000-04:00

Hope all my U.S. friends had a great long weekend. I got to spend lots of family time and lots of studio time, my 2 favorite things! Doing a big Etsy shop update this week. Here are the first three new items. I call them Happy Camper, Happy Teacup and Party.

I'm loving all the pennants and flag banners I've seen online, so I couldn't wait to try some myself.

More Shabby Chic

2011-07-01T10:59:00.000-04:00

I had a great vintage, shabby chic week. I made 4 new pillowcases for my Etsy shop, and scored lots of great new vintage sheets for future projects. Ralph Lauren, Laura Ashley and Tommy Hilfiger sheets are so soft and pretty. It's so much fun to play with those great patterns.

And, I just got this adorable little Samsonite suitcase for $4. It's perfect as a photo prop. The inside is in perfect shape, and is a great royal blue color.

I'm going to use it as my Modge Podge project for Craft Share 2011 at the Sew Can Do blog. Check out the button on the left sidebar. There will be new projects each week. So happy to be included in this!

If this baby suitcase turns out well, I'm going to tackle the big suitcase I mentioned in this post. I'm considering both fabric and scrapbook paper to cover it. Any hints to share?

Next podcast will be all about Shabby Chic projects (are you sensing a trend here at QC HQ - that's QuiltedCupcake Headquarters ;)

Iced Coffee Recipe with a Twist

2011-06-29T07:51:00.004-04:00

I found this great iced coffee recipe on Pinterest, via Pioneer Woman. I changed a few things, and wanted to share with the other java junkies out there.

First of all, I did a smaller amount, 3 quarts of water plus 6 ounces of coffee. I didn't use expensive stuff, but did use Dark Roast coffee. I can't store 2 gallons of coffee in my fridge. Besides, even I don't drink that much coffee!

My trusty coffee cone really helped with the process. I tried the paper towels in the metal strainer as Ree recommended, but it made a big mess for me. So, I strained the steeped brew through a regular cone filter in my ceramic cone, placed inside the metal strainer.

So much easier and neater! I did use about 4 filters this way, but ended up with 2.5 quarts of primo iced coffee juice. And, I didn't have to fiddle with pushing the coffee through the strainer. Gravity in this case was my friend.

Has anyone else tried this recipe?

Guilty Pleasure: Robo-Stir

2011-06-27T11:19:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, having a blog is like going to Confession. For the non-Catholic school/CCD folks out there, confession is where you tell a priest your bad stuff, and he grants forgiveness.

Well, dear readers, I need to ask forgiveness for I have purchased a silly "As Seen on TV" product, and I love it. I give you the RoboStir

It's a little motorized thingy that stirs pots for you. I felt like a dork buying it, even though I did get it at Joann with a coupon. How lazy have we become when we can't stir our own dinner? Hello, Jane Jetson!

Well, here's the reason I bought it - homemade Alfredo sauce. My sister Kelly introduced me to this lovely culinary delight about a year ago (Yes, I was living under a rock before that). I'd never tried it. Worked in Baltimore's Little Italy for 5 years, never tried it. (remember the rock?)

Kelly made it for me, and I fell in love. I made it for my family, and they fell in love. The only problem is that you have to stir it constantly for like 15 minutes. I just don't have that kind of time to be chained to the stove. As I make dinner, I'm also answering emails, updating Twitter, browsing Pinterest, you name it.

Of course, if it was this stove from Big Chill, I might reconsider:

Anyhow, I have to report that the Robo-stir worked really well. Resulted in probably one of the best alfredo sauces I've ever made. I think the constant stirring really helped. It was so thick and rich. Basically, the recipe is just a stick of butter, splash of olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, heavy cream and pepper. Here are some links to recipes I've tried:

HomeEc101

Allrecipes.com

Having recently read Robopocalypse: A Novel, I have to say, I was a tiny bit worried about inviting a robot like thing into the house. Even so, I think it's a keeper!

Shabby Chic Lamp Shade Tutorial

2011-06-24T08:11:00.000-04:00

As mentioned on the podcast episode 45, here's the shabby chic lamp shade I made for my Mason Jar lamp. Got the lamp at a trade show a while back, and couldn't find the right shade. I think this one's perfect.

I love that you can highlight some of your favorite fabrics from past projects. This one has pieces of my summery grommet bag, place mats, upsized strapping fall bag and more!

(Hey KV, does this count as scrapbooking? It's sort of a memory project!)

Want to make your own? Here's how:

Find a lamp shade with a metal frame. I got this one at a thrift store for $2. Older shades are probably best for this, as they have a stronger frame. Plus, you won't feel bad about step #2 with a thrifted shade.
Rip all the fabric off the frame. This can either be cathartic, or scary, depending on your sense of adventure. I found that using an Exacto knife to cut through the fabric, and then pulling around the top and bottom edges worked best.
If needed, sand any glue spots, or use a product like Un-Du to remove any remaining glue.
Spray paint the frame if needed. For example, if it's brass and you like nickel, pull out the spray paint and go to town. I only used one quick coat of nickel spray paint for mine. No need to be super-precise on this paint job.
While the frame is drying, go through your fabric scraps, looking for wide-ish pieces. I ripped all of my pieces down to about 1" wide. Don't worry if they're not long enough, you can tie them together. I chose all my scraps from one color group. You can also just choose at random.
Now, the really fun part. Tie the scraps to the frame. Start with a knot on one of the vertical pieces of the frame. Then, see how far the scrap will take you around the frame - see photo below.
For longer scraps, I wrapped around the spoke and kept going. For shortest scraps, I tied them spoke to spoke. For medium scraps that ended in between 2 spokes, I just tied them in the middle and kept going. (Note: you can click on the pic to enlarge.)

Last step: step back and admire your lovely new lampshade!

If you decide to try it, please share your pictures in my QuiltedCupcake Flickr group. I love to see your projects!

Quilted Cupcake Podcast 45 Show Notes

2011-06-21T09:20:00.000-04:00

Episode 45 of the Quilted Cupcake Podcast is up. It features part 2 of my Etsy Tips & Tricks discussion. Be sure to check out my free e-book if you haven't yet! See end of this post for more links from this episode.

Episode 45 also includes projects underway, and recently finished projects.

Here are some of the vintage-inspired pillowcases I made for my Etsy shop. I love how they mix and match so well! I'm also enjoying playing with my vintage linens again.

Here's my current favorite - it's going to hard to part with this lovely blue pillowcase - it's right at home on my quilt, don't you think?

I had fun taking pics of these - thought this was kind of a neat shot:

Links from Episode 45:

Everyday Crochet: Wearable Designs Just for You: I'm making the Mei-Mei jacket shown on the cover. Check Ravelry if you get stuck on the pattern (like I did, a million times!)

HandmadeTop10- a neat site that features voting on your favorite Etsy items

New Book:

How to Make Money Using Etsy: A Guide to the Online Marketplace for Crafts and Handmade Products

Vintage Suitcase

2011-06-20T08:11:00.002-04:00

Found a great vintage suitcase this week- only $7.

The inside's in great shape. The outside is well-loved- more than the others I've found.

I'm not sure whether to keep it as is, or recover it. What would you do? Take my poll!

Wheeled Cart

2011-06-19T09:31:00.000-04:00

Another cool vintage find. I call this a "Nanny cart" because my grandma (we called her Nanny) would use a wheeled cart like this to carry her groceries back from the market. At the time, we kids probably scoffed at her and thought it was weird. Who knew Nanny was being green and eco-friendly? She also drank from mason jars and a huge latte style mug. A lady ahead of her time.

My local thrift store had 2 - a newer model, and this one. I had to go with the one with more character. Only $10! I'm thinking I'm going to create a pretty shabby chic style liner for it, and use it to hold batting or other lining type, non-pretty fabric in my studio. I'll post pics when it's done.

Mason Jars

2011-06-17T12:31:00.000-04:00

I have fallen even more in love with mason jars this week. Mostly because I've seen such awesome ideas on Pinterest.

Hubby and I took a little mid-week field trip to thrift stores yesterday, and I scored all of these - each cost 50 cents or less:

I can't wait to start playing with them. Here are a few of the things I have planned for them:

Soap dispenser from Blissfully Content - Julia shares the tutorial on her blog.

Candle holder

Drink holder

Flower holder

Check out these cool Mason Jar lights on Etsy.

Check back for more vintage finds over the weekend!

Grilled Chicken Takes a Bow

2011-06-15T10:45:00.000-04:00

We tried a new kind of chicken last night, and I just had to share it with you. We call it "Stand Up and Take a Bow" chicken. This was the best, moistest chicken I've ever made. And, it was super easy.

You put the chicken on a wire rack ($3 at WM), and cook it on the grill with 1/2 can of liquid inside the little rack. We used a Diet Coke can half full of chicken broth. The recipe called for 1/2 can of beer, but we didn't have any. I've heard Sprite works, too.

Before it goes on the grill, you coat it inside and out with olive oil, rub with seasonings (I just used salt and pepper), stand it up on the can, and put it on the grill. You don't open the grill cover at all for at least an hour. When I checked mine after the hour, it was all done! Also, you use indirect heat - which I'd never done before. That means turn on the right burner, and put the chicken on the left (unheated) burner.

We demolished it - hubby said it looked like it had been attacked by a school of piranhas. Yummy!

Has anyone else tried this? Any recipes or hints? Please share in the comments.

Cupcake Carousel

2011-06-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

How did I miss this little baby until now? It's called the Cupcake Carousel. It can hold up to 24 cupcakes without smashing them all together. Where was this when I was bringing cupcakes to school parties for 15 years? It was at my local Kitchen & Company for $19.

Here's the inside, with little lift-out trays. Back in my serious scrapbooking days, this would have been perfect to hold all the little embellishments, etc. when going to crop events. I may need to find a use for it now with sewing notions.

Besides, it kinda looks like my shop logo, don't you think? It would just be fun to have a giant cupcake in my studio, even if I only used it once and a while to carry cupcakes.

I've been sick the past week, so that's why no blogging, podcast, etc. I'm finally on the mend, and hope to be able to record this weekend.

Noro Shawl in Progress

2011-06-03T11:27:00.000-04:00

Remember those random balls of Noro Silk Garden yarn I've been collecting? Here's what they're growing up to be. It's called the Feather and Fan Comfort Shawl, from Ravelry.

You can download the original Norwegian version on Ravelry. I found this site that offers an English translation. I translated it into a Word table, so just email me if you'd like me to send it to you. I found it much easier to follow that way.

I was totally inspired by Magpie Ima's version on Ravelry. She also had some Noro to use up.

I love the waves, and how the colors change. I'm hoping to make it super big. It knits up very fast - this is about a week's progress. I've done a little frogging along the way, but that just means I get to keep working with this lovely yarn.

I also found this new (to me) yarn by Bernat called Mosaic at my local AC Moore. It's acrylic, which I usually do not like, but it's pretty nice to use. And, it's a bargain at $5.99 a skein. It's not Silk Garden, but the colorways are really fun. I'm adding it in a few rows to keep the shawl from getting too dark.

(Photo from Craft Critique.com)

Baby Bib Weekend

2011-05-31T09:51:00.000-04:00

Had fun over the long holiday weekend making some new baby things for my shop. I've finally made a baby bib pattern that I like. I kept having issues with the neck being too small when using velcro fasteners. No more, though! I backed the denim one with flannel, will definitely do more like that!

And, I was able to use the new shutter backdrop I made last weekend, courtesy of my ReStore find! Made photographing this taggie blanket much easier! I'm digging the clothesline look. And, I can move the shutter to use it wherever I like (inside, outside).

Finally, I made an owl bib and taggie for the shop. Photographed this before the shutter was ready - I like the photos above better.

What crafty projects did you work on this past weekend? Please share in the comments!

Time for more dishcloths

2011-05-25T15:14:00.000-04:00

Crocheted some easy dishcloths from my stash of cotton yarn.
The Granny Circle one I found via Pinterest. I think my fav. is the pink shell with green border.

Love using these summery colors - can you believe Memorial Day is this weekend?

Etsy Secrets, Tips & Tricks Podcast and e-Book Posted

2011-05-23T10:31:00.012-04:00

My QuiltedCupcake Podcast 44 , featuring Etsy Secrets, Tips & Tricks for Sellers is now posted.

As a bonus, I created a free downloadable e-book with more information. Just click on the new "Etsy Secrets, Tips & Tricks" tab above, on the right to view it.

The podcast a bit over an hour long, so get comfy before you start this one. In fact, it turned out to be so much information that I decided to break it into 2 podcasts.

Episode 44 includes an Overview of Etsy and Advice for Starting a shop. Episode 45 will review branding and promotion ideas.

Enjoy, and please feel free to add your own tips and ideas in the comments.

More Elfin Fun

2011-05-22T09:35:00.000-04:00

Hubby and I went to some Yard and Estate Sales yesterday. Lots of fun, and a beautiful day.

One of my favorite finds was a set of 3 Knee-Hugger elves for $1.
Actually, I only wanted the two on the left.

The woman running the estate sale insisted that I also take the one on the right. Yes, he's wearing a sparkly gold jumpsuit. I was going to throw him away, but he's sorta growing on me now. I think I'll call him Liberace elf.

Free Crochet Flower Tutorial

2011-05-20T10:29:00.000-04:00

Crocheted Flowers are a great way to use up little bits of leftover yarn. They have lots of potential uses as an embellishment. They look great on shirts, bags or hair bows. Or, add a stem and make a bouquet!

Crochet Adorned: Reinvent Your Wardrobe with Crocheted Accents, Embellishments, and Trims has lots of great ideas.

And, they're sort of addictive.

I've begun including them as a little thank you gift in my Etsy shipments.

I worked out this little flower design, and wanted to share it with you.

Here's the pattern:

QuiltedCupcake Crochet Flowers

With center color, Start with a magic ring.
Chain 2, make 16 HDC (half double crochets) into the ring and join.
Chain 1, make 1 SC (single crochet) in each HDC from previous round. Join.
Finish off center color, add in Outer color.
Chain 1, make 1 SC in each SC from previous round. Join.
*Chain 4, 1SC in next stitch* Repeat all the way around. Join and finish.

You can easily alter the look by increasing the number of SC rows you do in steps 3 and 5. Here's one with an extra row of SC in outer color:

Note: hook size doesn't really matter. I used an H and a J for these. It's another way to alter the look of the flower. If it starts to curl up, just add an extra SC or 2 as you do steps 3 and 5 to make it lie flat.

No rights reserved - feel free to use this pattern as you wish. I'd appreciate a link back to this post if you share it.

New Business Cards

2011-05-19T08:30:00.003-04:00

I made myself some new business cards the other day, based on a fabulous idea posted by Amy Dunn - her blog is called Lots of Pink Here. I found the idea through a Flickr group, and had to try it immediately.

I like how each one is different. Maybe not the best branding approach, but they are at least unique, and probably more likely to be saved and shared than a standard card.

I was about to order more of the printed cards from Vistaprint, but I'm glad I found this idea first. I like that they can be changed as needed. For example, my old cards don't have my new web address. Or, I could do a promotional code for my Etsy shop on just a few cards. The possibilities are endless.

I can do a tutorial, but it's a pretty easy process.

You create the cards in Word, then sew scraps of fabric to them.

I'll talk more about the cards and other fun branding and promotion ideas in my upcoming Etsy podcast, which I plan to post this Sunday, along with a special bonus freebie.

BTW, if you have an Etsy tip to share for the podcast, please email it to me: quiltedcupcake@gmail.com. If I use your tip, I'll of course give you credit!

Bowl of Noro, Yum!

2011-05-17T10:20:00.000-04:00

Went to the thrift store yesterday, as my youngest needed black jeans for a school music performance. After I found them, I naturally had to see what else was new/old.

I was thrilled to find several bags of premium yarn. Super soft merino, a hand dyed wool skein (that I'll be over-dying) and, 2 bags with Noro yarn. I love Noro, especially Silk Garden, but can't really afford $14 for a small skein. With the blend of silk, wool and mohair, it has a distinctive look. I usually just pet it (knitters, you know what I mean), sigh and walk away.

When I spotted Noro at the thrift store, my heart fluttered a bit. The price was much better - $1.40 for all of that yarn - would have been $2.80, but it was half price day. All told, I spent $4 on yarn. The black jeans cost more than that.

Luckily, I didn't have to knock anyone over to get to the bags. Not that I'd do that. :) Although, this was a mission of mercy. Clearly, some anonymous smart knitter in the world either gave up the craft, or went to that big yarn shop in the sky, and someone needed to love these treasures. I am just that woman.

I'm thinking I'll make one of the lovely Noro scarves that I see on Ravelry all the time. Any other ideas?

Doll Quilts

2011-05-13T08:08:00.000-04:00

I'd always wanted to make doll quilts, but hadn't done it. Why ever not? They're so much fun! Here are two I finished this past weekend for my shop:

The first one is a simple whole cloth quilt - the fabric is printed with the great design. I just had to add a border. Free motion-quilted. Click here for details.

This second one is made with some pretty pink puppy print (say that 3 times fast!) that's been in the stash for at least a year. I also used my color of the moment, turquoise. Backed with soft fleece, love how the quilting turned out on this one. Click here for more details.

I can see some more of these in my future. Great way to try out some new free motion quilting ideas I've seen lately. Here's a link to one I want to try that I found on Pinterest.

Clipboard Chalkboard Tutorial

2011-05-11T09:02:00.005-04:00

As promised on QuiltedCupcake Podcast Episode 43, here's the tutorial for the Clipboard Chalkboard. I made this for my studio, as a place to note which projects are next in line.

BTW, the last item on the list was added by my son who, even at 18, can't resist leaving me funny little notes - I love that. He once wrote a new paragraph on a sticky note and left it inside the copy of Twilight I was reading, so I'd find it at some point. Let's just say he's not a fan of the series.

It's a pretty simple project - here's the supply list (you can click on photo to make it larger)

Instructions:

Cover the clipboard with a piece of your favorite paper or fabric. I used a favorite scrapbook paper by Elsie Flanigan of Red Velvet Art fame. Gift wrap would also work well. I attached the paper with a glue stick. I would imagine you could also do the same thing with double sided iron-on fusible and fabric.
Cut the self-stick chalkboard sheet (found this at Michaels) to fit inside the decorative background.
Carefully apply the sticker. You only get one shot - I ruined the first piece when I tried to reposition it, so be careful on this step. To be sure, you could draw an outline or guidelines for placement.
Tie one side of rick rack or ribbon around a piece of chalk. Tie the other side to the top of the clipboard. This keeps the chalk close at hand. As an option, you could use this same technique to tie a bit of felt or terry cloth to the clipboard to use as an eraser.
Here's the fun part. Glue a thimble upside down near the bottom of the clipboard. I used one of my mom's old metal thimbles. Tacky glue works well. Let dry for at least an hour.
Remember to "condition" the chalkboard before you use it. That means to use chalk to color over the entire surface of the chalkboard. I like to use a piece of sidewalk chalk on its side - gets the job done quickly. Why do this? It prevents the first thing you write on the chalkboard staying as a "ghost image" for the rest of time. BTW, this conditioning trick works for all chalkboards!

Enjoy! If you make one of these, please post a picture to my QuiltedCupcake Flickr group - I love to see your creations. I'm also posting this to Pinterest, so you can bookmark it there, too.

Linking to: Made by You Mondays by Skip to My Lou, Making the World Cuter, Polly Want a Crafter

Quilted Cupcake Episode 43 Show Notes

2011-05-09T19:49:00.013-04:00

QuiltedCupcake Podcast Episode 43 is posted on iTunes and Libsyn. The topic for this week's show is Thrifty, Crafty, Frugal ideas.

Here are some of my recent thrift store finds. You can click on the pic to make it bigger if you like!

This is the new Elfa wire rack for my coat closet - holds so much! And, I still have room in the closet for coats, and yarn project bags. The shoe organizer on the back of the door holds scarfs, hats, dog toys, etc. And, no, my closet is not usually this clean - I took a picture right after organizing it.

Other links from this episode:

Laurel Thrift Store Center

Unique Thrift Store - Many locations in several states, my favorite is in Silver Spring, MD. Also like Brooklyn Park and Landover Hill

Pinterest - you have to check this out - it's AMAZING! You can follow my pinboards there - my user name is Quilted Cupcake!

The Meatloaf Bakery in Chicago that serves several different varieties of meatloaf cupcakes - yum! If anyone's been, please post a comment to let us know how they are. Chicago's one of my all-time favorite cities!

I'm working on a new tutorial for the Clip Board/Chalkboard - should be posted by Tuesday.

I'll also post photos of the new doll quilts and outfits I've made for my Etsy shop once they're listed. The little red wagon was great as a photo prop!

Summery Grommet Bag

2011-05-06T10:30:00.000-04:00

Felt like it was time for a new summery purse. Lots of firsts for me with this project, which I made using this Indygo Junction pattern: Grommet Grab Bag.

I'd purchased the grommets about a year ago, intending to make a purse like this one day. When I visited And Sew It Goes, a local quilt shop this past weekend, they had a sample and one last copy of the pattern. It was meant to be! Other than the pattern, all the other supplies for this were from my stash - double bonus!

I made a few modifications (naturally!) Most important, I added a pocket on the front for my mobile phone (gotta have easy access). Check out the inside - yep, more rick rack in action on that interior pocket:

I'll do a full project review on the next podcast (coming this Sunday).

Ponchos and Berets, Oh My!

2011-05-04T08:24:00.000-04:00

I'm a huge fan of berets. Probably goes back to that old Mary Tyler Moore show (dating myself, I know!) Anyhow, I've made a few, and decided the doll clothes section of my Etsy shop needed some, too. And what's a beret without a poncho to match? Here are two of my favorites:

The purple ruffled poncho with a flower. Click here for more info.

This is a whole accessory set - including a mini messenger bag for dolls. And, yes, those are legwarmers. I'm a child of the 70's, what can I say? Click here for details.

I'm in a real knitting mood - scored 2 skeins of Knit Picks Stroll yarn, plus another mini skein of some lovely yarn at the thrift store this weekend, all for $3.99. And a great skein of Pink Cascade Sock Yarn for $6. Yippee! I'm planning some serious TV watching and knitting over the next few nights.

Rick Rack Score

2011-04-30T10:32:00.001-04:00

Rick Rack has a proud history in our family. My mom LOVED it. She made a lot of our clothes when we were young, and rick rack was her embellishment of choice. She would have loved to see all the quilts that now include rick rack.

I love it too - reminds me of mom, but it also makes me think of adding smiles to my projects. Imagine how happy I was to find this huge bag of trimmings at my favorite thrift store, mostly rick rack. All of this for $4.98! Score! I probably couldn't buy four individual packs for that much today. The packaging was almost as much fun as the trims. There is a scrapbooker inside me that wants to make a page with all of those funky labels.

I couldn't wait to dig into this new treasure, so I made a new Kindle/Nook cover for my shop:

I've already started working on the next podcast, so I'll be back on my regular schedule of every other Sunday.

Oh, and if you haven't yet "liked" my page on Facebook, please do - I'm hoping to get to 200 "likes" this weekend. There's a link on the right sidebar.

My New Studio Organization Idea

2011-04-28T10:33:00.000-04:00

I went to Ikea yesterday looking for some cute storage, but decided these 59 cent ugly bags may work better for what I had in mind. They're not pretty, but these bags hold a TON of stuff. They are sold at the checkout stand.

After my recent studio clean up, I found a bunch of stuff that's necessary, but I don't ~~need~~ want to look at all the time. For example, the batting, fusible fleece, and plain sheets I use when making items for my Etsy shop. So, I'm going to stuff these sturdy bags, and then hang them from hooks in my utility/laundry/junk room. Another ugly place in the house, but it gets the job done.

I've also used these bags for taking towels to the beach, and storing bulky holiday decorations. Any other ideas for them?