What to do with those Endless Flannel Scraps!!!!

I cut lots and lots of flannels squares for backing, batting, and tops of flannel rag quilts and to sell on my ebay store (here is my plug:  http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Beverlie-Boutique-Quilt-Squares  ).  So I always have tons of selvage ends that range from one inch to about three inches.  These little pieces are so fun to make scrappy quilts, which also double as eye spy quilts.  Here is the start of a stacked coin quilt make with my flannel scraps.   I am in the process of quilting it by simply using a wavy stitch down every seam then down the middle of each column.  I find this is the perfect amount of quilting, giving it that ribbon affect.  It helps it retain its softness on the back and the flexibility and cuddleness you'd expect from flannel.

If you are interested in purchasing these scraps, I have small priority boxes available with either boy or girl flannel ends, both solids and prints. Most are 6.5" long and range from one inch to three inches in width.  Each box is more than enough to create alternating columns for a baby quilt in this style.   Just email and let me know.

Quilt Along for Beginners!!!

I will be posting a supply list for a Quilt Along for Beginners!  If you'd like to sign up, just email me and I will add your name to the side wall.  What are we making you ask???  It will be a modification of the Candy Buttons Quilt on the Moda Bake Shop designed by Vickie Eapan.  You can take a look at it here http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/07/candy-buttons-quilt.html.  I will be posting a list of supplies this weekend with pictures so you can see EXACTLY what I am blogging about.  We will NOT be making yo-yo's but if you'd like to add them on your own, that is your preference.

My daughter, who is learning to quilt, will be making the same exact quilt.  We will post a new step every Saturday, complete with lots of step by step pictures.  There will be so many pics you'll think I am silly, but I want you all to know exactly what you need to do.  I know sometimes when you look at tutorials or patterns you may have a hard time figuring how to get from A to B.  I am going to try to eliminate the confusion.

You will need some cirlces and squares.  If you'd like to buy these pre-cut you may go to an etsy store Canton Village Quilt Works  http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5962226.  She will make you whatever size circles you need.  Dont be shy to ask for other fabrics than what she has posted.  I myself bought a variety of circles.  I will not be centering them on the blocks so I thought the different sizes would lend to this style.  It will also make it easier for my daughter to sew.  You will also need 6.5" white (or another color) squares.  I have these available in my ebay store http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Beverlie-Boutique-Quilt-Squares__W0QQ_armrsZ1.  I can do them in any color of Kona Cotton you'd like.  You may also be able to get them form Canton Village Quilt Works as well.  You'll need at least 36 a few more if you'd like to be on the safe side.

That's it for now!!  Happy shopping!!  Let me know what kind of circles you'll be doing.  I went with the 1930's prints.  My fave... reminds me of the quilt my great grandmother made for me.

Brick Wall Flannel and Minky Quilt Top

This is an extremely cuddable flannel and minky quilt made from my rag quilt leftovers.  I LOVE leftovers sometimes they are yummier than the original quilt!! There are 120 "bricks" in this quilt. The pattern is random.  Each brick is made by taking a 6.5 inch block, then halving it.  I chain piece seven bricks lengthwise, creating 12 strips.  Then I take 8 bricks and half those.  I put 1/2 of a brick at opposing ends, alternating from one strip to the next.  So all the odd numbered strips (looking at them horizontally) may have the half brick on the right and all the even may have it on left. Then all that is left to do is sew the strips together. 

I have completed this quilt a couple of different ways.  I have backed it with anti pill fleece envelope style, then top stitched the edge.  When I back it this way, I generally sew free motion small circles or a girls may have rag quilt hearts, randomly placed, stitching through the top and fleece back.

Another way I have finished this quilt top is traditionally with batting and flannel backing then wavy stitching down the center of each brick, ribbon style or a for a boy I have quilted 1/4 from each seam. 


The approximate finished size of this quilt is 42"x44". So it makes a nice baby quilt or a cozy throw.  It is very simple and forgiving for beginners because you don't have any seams to match up.

So collect all those leftover rag quilt squares, separating for girl and boy or collect 10 sets of 12 squares. You can easily compete this quilt from beginning to end in a weekend or even a day.  It makes a great last minute baby shower present or for a charity blanket.  Because the pattern is random you dont have to lay any blocks out.  The more of a variety you have, the better.  This one I've pictured, I tried to stay with blues, yellows and creams.

I will provide you with a tutorial in the next couple of weeks.  I have a girl brick wall quilt ready to be pieced, including some rag quilt hearts.

My Daughter Learns to Quilt

I will not be reporting on my daughters progress for a bit.  Her machine is not feeling well :(.  We are dropping it off at the Sewing doc's tomorrow for treatment.  Lets hope the repair is not too costly. 

**********************************************

I will be documenting my 9 year old daughters progress as she learns to quilt.  I will show you how I am teaching her, what works for her and what doesnt, and you will see her quilts.  Her first few quilts were rag quilts, security size, which she sold on ebay.  She is making these to help her become more familiar with the sewing machine and all its stitches. 

Please feel free to let me know your opinions and criticisms.  If you have an idea to help make something easier or patterns that are simple and quick.  Quick is very important for her.  She likes results.  

Olivia - 9 years old

Here is her FIRST QUILT:

Quilt Bloggin Newbie

Well, I have finally decided to start my own quilting blog. I have wanted to do this for a number of years. I am such of fan of the quilting blogs. They are a great resource for ideas, fabric choices, color selection, etc. Please be patient. I am sure there will be a learning curve for me.

Pictured above is a Breast Cancer Rag Quilt made from 16 different fabrics. There is a mix of flannels and cottons. I love the fringe of the exposed seams. Babies love these rag quilts too. The fringe provides an interesting texture for them.

Please check out my etsy store for rag quilting supplies and other charm packs or fabric. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5548627

Thanks - Be back soon!!!!