Wool Crazy Sew Along

Kim's "lady"

2011-12-03T11:45:00.000-05:00

Close up of hat

french knots empire dress

the entire lady.

Anyone sewing on their crazy quilt?

2011-11-12T09:55:00.000-05:00

Kim's quilt

Now with the cooler weather has anyone gotten their crazy quilt out?
I'm gonna try and get back to it this Fall and Winter.

Happy sewing, Kim

Wool Crazy Pincushion Update

2011-07-03T13:52:00.000-04:00

Hi! Do you remember the group of friends I did my wool crazy round robin with last fall? This was Debbie's top when she got it back after we all had stitched on it.

Yesterday I went for a visit and she has it finished! She decided to remove some of the buttons and do some addition wool work on her section. She then stuffed it with fiber fill and around the outside crushed walnut shells so it wasn't too heavy.

Here is a close-up of her revised section. Didn't she do a lovely job?

Well done Debbie, I'm sure you will enjoy it for many years to come.

New Wool Crazy Patterns

2011-06-03T06:06:00.015-04:00

Thisngs are awfully quiet around here so I thought I'd post some new patterns I've added to the shoppe just in case a little inspiration is required. We ll loose our Mojo sometimes so here are some links to get you back on track! Have fun!

Wool Garden Crazy

Oh this one has a vintage feel without going lacey. Fun without cute, Spring without pastels... gotta love that!

Wool Ark Crazy
I love Noah's Ark, so this one was a no brainer. I had to have it!

Wool Crazy Fall Block

2011-03-22T16:59:00.000-04:00

Look how much I've finished!!

WOOHOO!!

I have finished the appliques on the Fall block. I may add a few more small ones here and there to fill in. Next I will add all the embroidery stitches and embellishments. WOW, I can't believe I have this much finished.

I also made this little pillow adapted from the Crazy at Home book.

I'm really enjoying this craziness!

Happy Stitching,

Judy

First Block

2011-03-08T14:51:00.000-05:00

Wool Crazy First Block

I decided to make my blocks seasonal. I started this project last Fall and that is why I'm still working on the Fall Block. That explains the turkey at the top. Now I want to start on the Spring block. I'm yearning for tulips and bunnies. I am going to try to finish this block first. But I have a feeling I will be yearning for Summer (or maybe Fall again) by the time I finish. I love hand sewing the wool appliques on, but it is time consuming.

Happy Sewing!

Judy

Wool Crazy piece finished!

2010-12-05T16:14:00.001-05:00

I've finished my latest wool crazy piece. It came about from another piece I was working on and I decided to combine them together. Can see my initials, shh in the top right corner and the date 2010 below the Christmas tree.

I decided not to make it directional, to keep interest in it. I use a crescent moon and star along with my initials for my label on the back of most pieces I make. Here it was fun to incorporated them in the wool.

I managed to cover the four seasons in this piece. This portion is mainly Autumn and Winter.

This area is mainly Spring and Summer. I used some original designs and adapted some from JoAnn Mulaly's Wool Crazy book.

As you may have noted, there is a snowflake button the the Christmas tree, as the piece fold up on itself. Because it is a Huswif Sewing Case.

Here is the inside, designed by our friend Kaaren Johnston from The Painted Quilt. I made mine a bit wider and did not curve the top as she did on her design. I also added an additional tulip pocket to hold a needle threader.

There are two pockets to hold addition things you may need for your next sewing project. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have making it. Now onto something new.

Inside The Pages of Crazy at Home

2010-11-21T18:41:00.006-05:00

I went to Quilt market where I was thrilled to have found JoAnn Mullaly's booth. It was chock full of treasures and among them were the projects from the new book, Crazy at Home. The pillow I am holding and all the projects pictured are found in this new book. It's hard to choose a favorite but I'm going with the pillows because I just love having pillows on my couch. There are two of them in the book, but I am blocking the other one. Well, I had to stand somewhere! LOL! And JIC you were wondering.... yes, I did see THE Wool Crazy quilt

And yes, I did meet THE Wool Crazy Lady herself, Jo Ann Mullaly... but now I'm just name dropping, LOL! I'm so bad!
You can preorder your copy of Crazy at Home HERE.
They will ship on Black Friday. =)

Crazy at Home has arrived!

2010-10-25T20:05:00.004-04:00

Jo Ann Mullaly's new Crazy at Home has just arrived at Pumpkin Patch Primitives. Yes, it is now in stock. The projects are gorgeous.

This book was well worth the wait.

You can order it HERE

Completed Canadian Wool Crazy Round Robin Tops

2010-10-12T18:10:00.000-04:00

Today we made the final exchange of our pin cushion wool crazy pieces. First up is Ethel's Mr. McGarrity's Garden. She is thinking of making it a pocket for a sewing bag. The house and sheep were made by our friend Sandi. Debbie did the tree on the left with a rabbit hiding in the grass. I did the white rabbit and corn in the centre. Ethel started us off with the black rabbit, grey fence and hollyhocks on the right.

Here is Debbie's Halloween, she started the piece at the top. I added the skeleton tree, black cat, pumpkin and moon. Ethel added the witch flying on the broom over the pumpkin patch. Sandi added the witches boot, spiders and candy corn.

Sandi's Autumn theme piece started with her oak leaves and acorns on the top right. I added the turkey, cone flower and thistle. Later I added the moon and stars and heart on the turkey. Debbie created the pumpkin, black cat and scarecrow. Ethel finished it off with a pumpkin patch and little one dressed up in rain gear to pick out the perfect pumpkin.

My theme was flowers and bugs, it started with the tulip, lady bug and bee. Ethel then designed the daffodil and butterfly portion. Of to Debbie for the fantasy flowers, raindrops, there is a mouse at the base of one flower and a button. Sandi added the lovely dragonfly with metallic stitched wings. Ethel then took it back and added a fairy to finish it off.

I think we all did a lovely job on our friends pieces and can't wait to see them finished. When they are done, I'll post another picture. I've put some detail pictures on my own blog if you care to drop by for a peek. I don't know about the rest of my friends but I'm addicted too wool applique!

We're like the Energizer Bunny

2010-09-16T01:29:00.008-04:00

We keep going, and going, and going!

Here is the first of the finished WC RR PC's of of Second WC Round Robin.

This piece has traveled near and far and is now heading home to Sharon (Red Geranium Cottage) after many months of travel and many loving stitches from all who worked on it. Isn't it a dream? On it's last stop in NH, Joanna (Applique Today) added this stunning birdhouse.

I think any birdie would be happy living in that cutie, helloAnd she also added the word wool to the center. How cool is that? Very cool indeed.

Now this sweet RRPC is headed home. If you are just joining us and missed it's progression just click on the tag below and you'll find all the posts relating to this particular RR.

Stay tuned for the other three bases from this RR, they are quite a feast for the eyes.

I'll be back soon, Brenda

New Wool Crazy project

2010-08-29T20:48:00.000-04:00

This is my next wool crazy project. Our pin cushions are still being worked on but we won't be showing any more pictures for awhile until two of our group get back from vacations. I decided to try a different shape to work with another project. Several of these wools I found as clothing in thrift shops and felted them. I basted them onto a piece of Osnaburg.

I've started to do some crazy stitching and removing the basting as I go. I'm still deciding what appliques I'll add to the piece. I'm mixing both DMC perle cotton and Valdani cottons at the present. I may add some wool threads into the mix.

First Wool Crazy - Making Progress

2010-08-20T18:00:00.008-04:00

This is my first time posting, but I have following the Wool Crazy group for awhile :). It's so much fun to see how everyone puts their own unique

stamp on these blocks. I have been working on my crazy block on and off for about 2 months - in between work, family, and other sewing projects. I am having so much fun with it and am already planning my second block!

Here is the original foundation I made about 2 months ago. A special thanks to Sharon Stewart of Liberty Rose for starting the group so we could have access to her amazing wool stash! I knew I wanted to feature holidays on my first block, so I picked all kinds of spring, summer, fall colors so that I could display this year-round.

Here is the "rough" layout of my main appliques. Some pieces seemed to naturally fit (like the flag and the snowman), but I was having a hard time figuring out how to place the rest of them. After playing around with these a few days, I decided I needed to switch out some of my foundation colors so the appliques would show up better.

Here is the "refined" layout. I added in some darker backgrounds and settled on the final placement of my main appliques. For the center area, I plan to embroider a big bunch of flowers in the jack-o-lantern and maybe add some bats, candy, etc.

I eventually plan to include some smaller appliques such as chicks and flowers. My plan is to stitch these down, and then go back and start doing all my embellishing. I'm sure that will take some time, but I look forward to it! Thanks for reading!

2010-08-14T15:23:00.011-04:00

Another Wool Crazy pin cushion round robin update!

Debbie had some fun with Sandi's Fall theme. She stitched a black cat in violet pink thread sitting on top of the pumpkin on the left. The elegant Scarecrow lady guards over the huge pumpkin.
Ethel had some fun creating a witch flying on a broom over the pumpkin patch on Debbie's piece. A cat decided to hop along for a ride.

Some sunflowers and a ghost are peeking out of the pumpkin patch and a bat flies overhead.

Debbie stitched a lovely apple tree in Ethel's Mr. McGarrity's garden.

Did you spot the birds nesting in the tree and the rabbit hiding in the grass?

Debbie had some fun with flowers and bugs on my piece. I love the butterfly she added.

Did you spot the mouse at the base of the left flower and the caterpillar button also?

Sneak Peak

2010-08-09T11:21:00.000-04:00

A little sneak peak of the beginnings of my wool crazy pin cushion round robin. Now shipping off to Sandi...... Can't wait to see what transpires.

autumn crazy patch

2010-08-08T08:17:00.004-04:00

Finshed my autumn crazy patch! what fun I loved doing the smaller round version it's 18"! Now I want to do one with a sewing theme. I used fusible fleese as my foundation with the fusible side facing the bottom, this made finishing a snap I simply ironed the backing onto the fleese and trimmed around the edge and then applied double fold bias binding. Easy peasy!

2010-08-07T22:38:00.007-04:00

Another Pincushion Round Robin Update from Canada.
One thing I should mention is that we had a hard time getting all four of us together, as a result I've now stitched on everyone's pincushion! But I'm only going to reveal them as each round is finished. This is Debbie's Halloween theme, I added the black cat sitting on a crescent moon pumpkin with a skeleton tree.

This is Ethel's Mr. McGarrity's garden photographed on Debbie's back porch as I handed it off. I added another rabbit, white this time along with some cornstalks and some green onions growing in the dirt. Another photo I took has a bee flying along the upper green patch!
Here is Sandi's Fall theme. Her birthday falls in early October and often falls on Canadian Thanksgiving, hence the turkey theme to my contribution along with a thistle and echinacea flower.

Ethel's contribution to my flower and bug them was this lovely daffodil, tulip and butterfly along with some white daisies.

Thanks for letting us share our pieces with you.

Taking Wool Crazy to a Whole New Level

2010-08-07T06:30:00.009-04:00

There is something to be said for "practice makes perfect". You've heard that phrase, haven't you? I think we've all heard it, at one time or another. I thought of how it applies to crafting and in particular to our ongoing Wool Crazy Round Robin #2. Take a look at Joanna's contribution to Anna's pincushion. First of all, Joanna LOVES beads. She is a bedazzler if I ever met one. But I gotta tell you, I would have never thought to make the watering can look like it had polka dots with all those beads.

Isn't that amazing? Oh, and you gotta love the velvet rick rack. Hello? Jo takes Wool Crazy to a whole new level.

This is Anna's pincushion as it heads out to its last stop before heading home.

Joanna is an experienced crafter so don't feel bad if your work (like mine) isn't quite as fancy as hers. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Hope your weekend is filled with Wool Crazy fun. Enjoy! Brenda

These photos were taken by Joanna before she shipped it out to Sharon.

2010-08-05T19:25:00.007-04:00

Another Wool Crazy Round Robin Pincushion group.

Hi, my name is Sandi, a friend of mine named Ethel told me Wool Crazy this Spring. As I was going on a driving holiday to California, I told her I would look for the book and purchase it for her if I found it. Unfortunately I didn't find it, but she got a copy from Pat Sloan's site. Ethel also introduced me to this blog and I suggested that we do a pincushion round robin. At first she declined and then she decided to try it. She made one in about 3 days! Now to find 2 other friends to play. We did and here are our first rounds. Ethel's piece is called Mr. McGarrity's garden, her bunny is just so sweet! She has used wool thread to do all her stitching. Ethel is a very prolific quilter and has been a spinner and weaver in the past. She is a well known quilter in our community.

This is my starting piece with the theme of Flowers and bugs. I have used both Valdani and DMC perle cotton threads on mine.

Our friend Debbie loves all things Halloween and you can tell from her colour choices. Debbie is also a rug hooker and quilter. She has created many lovely pieces.

Our final member is also named Sandi and her theme is Fall. Sandi does lovely cross stitch, quilting and is another rug hooker. I met all these ladies about 17 years ago at a local quilt shop. I plan on sharing our pieces as they grow.

Wool Crazy RR Update

2010-08-05T07:02:00.006-04:00

I'm still trying to complete my first Wool Crazy Round Robin pincushion and I am happy to report that my center is done. I added the little boot before I sent my base on its travels and I am happy to report that it is now done.

This is how my base looks today: and here's a close up of my fancy boot. Are you lovin' the spider? I still have much to do to complete the base but I thought I'd show you how its coming along. Hope you're having some wool crazy fun...Brenda

A Little Bit At A Time

2010-08-04T07:08:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone -
Well, I'm moving slowly on my Wool Crazy but thoroughly enjoying it.

I hadn't picked it up in awhile but we put some new windows in the house - year three on the three year plan :) - and the sewing room was torn up so I decided to return to the relaxing art of hand work. I have much more to add but trying to work on just the appliques right now. Everyone's pictures are such an encouragement - thanks for sharing and happy stitching!

I'm in Wool Crazy Heaven!

2010-08-02T21:42:00.005-04:00

Look at what came in the mail todayThis is Joanna's Wool Crazy pincushion, now in progress. Joanna is part of the second wool crazy round robin. I know, it gets confusing so just know she is in a WC RR. =) Her pincushion has traveled far and is now close to home and close to being finished. Anna Romaine Fogg added a little house and gorgeous garden to Joanna's Small Town theme.

The house has a 4Sale sign... I guess even the pincushions can't escape the recession, LOL!

I'll be working on my contribution to this cutie this week. Stay tuned for the final chapter of Joanna's WC journey. =) Brenda

Wool Crazy Pincushion Round Robin THREE, Now In Progress!

2010-08-01T21:35:00.011-04:00

We now have two Wool Crazy Round Ronbins in progress. This pincushion base belongs to Sandi Linn Andersen who is taking part in the third and final WC Pincushion Round Robin. It arrived just in time for the weekend. Once I got going, I just could not put it down. Here's what I added to it:

and this is what it looks like now. It's now heading to Canada for Kaaren to add her creativity to it before heading back for its last contributor before heading home.

Sandi added the corn stalk before sending it to me. This is going to be one to watch, stay tuned!

summer themed wool crazy

2010-07-30T13:21:00.005-04:00

Finshed my first wool crazy what fun! This has a summer theme, I love summer and I ran out of room I want to do a sea side themed one too.

I have started a fall themed one which is 18 inch circle. I'm just having a blast , so many ideas and I keep running out of room. If wool crazy is a disease I think I have a terminal case LOL

Two Down, One To GO!

2010-07-24T22:16:00.009-04:00

My contribution to Sharon's WCRR Pincushion is complete. To see close ups and a pic that is not flipped you'll need to go to Facebook. I am experienceing Technical Difficulties loading my images onto Blogger, sorry about that! I'm hoping to have it fixed soon.Remember you don't need to be a member of FB to see the pics.

See WCRR#2 pictures HERE! Enjoy!

Feather Stitch Tutorial

2010-07-21T01:22:00.003-04:00

I wanted to add a feaher stitch to a new Wool Crazy Round Robin Pincushion I am working on but I could not visualize the process. The diagram was clear as day, I just could not "see" it, so I did what I always do, I went to You Tube.
After over thirty minutes of scanning videos, this was my favorite and it was in fact, the one I chose to guide me. Hope it helps you, if you need it (I sure did, LOL!)

Stitchin’ Thymes Update

2010-07-20T19:02:00.001-04:00

I just joined the group. A friend and I have met three times so far to work on our Crazy Wool quilts. We meet about every other week or so.

The first meeting I was able to get the base done:

Our second meeting:

Our 3rd meeting:

So that is where I am so far. As you can see I like bunnies and pigs!! This is exciting, I love playing around with all my wool, it has been neglected for some time now!!

Until next time – Happy Stitching - Jennifer

I Also Started!

2010-07-13T20:40:00.002-04:00

Okay, I am noticing that my wool crazy isn't very brightly colored. But that is because I have more of a fall theme in mind. I did flip fold method, but I see I should have listened to the many directions and did it the basting way. Live and learn! But this is a fun project, so anything goes :o)

Colleen - Crazy for Primitive Quilts and Gardens

I finally started!

2010-07-12T01:01:00.004-04:00

How long has this group been around and I am just now getting around to starting my Wool Crazy!? Way too long! I saw the round one Brenda posted on Julie's behalf yesterday so I decided to jump in and give it a go. So not only did I make a 14 inch round one, but I also got to working on the applique on the large Wool Crazy one I had put together a couple of weeks ago but never got the nerve to start working on it. So now I have two Wool Crazies started. Here are a couple of pictures. My decorative stitches suck, of course I didn't read the directions thoroughly, the part that says to mark a line so you get them even....oh well, it just makes it more prim! Here is my 24X24 full sized one. Oh, I also missed the part where it said to work from the middle and work out...LOL I still need to sew down those little yellow flowers on the left and put my decorative stitches on the top part.

Here is my small 14 inch one. I didn't put backing or batting on this one. I wish I hadn't put the batting on the large one, it makes a huge mess when you do your sewing and I really don't see the use for it. I have a ton of Mill Hill crystal embellishments that I never used on a cross stitch project from a long time ago, so I am going to put a few of those here and there on these so I can get some use out of them. You probably can't tell from this picture but there is one on the little flower on the heart.

Well, I am going to see if I can at least finish up this one block that needs to be finished. It's been a very long day, I'm kind of too pooped to be sewing. This weekend sure flew by. But at least I have another week of vacation to look forward to in a couple of weeks.

Tootles.

You've Got To Start Somewhere!

2010-07-10T01:02:00.004-04:00

Here's some eye candy ladies! This is Julie Heinen's Wool Crazy project. It's 14" round and it was made using the Flip and sew method (see video on earlier post). She skipped the batting altogether because she is going to use a wool backing and thought it would be heavy enough without it. She did use the book Wool Crazy for the applique and embroidery.
Isn't it gorgeous???

This is the first time I have seen it made in light colors and it is just as beautiful as in the darker primitive palette. Julie doesn't have a blog but wanted me to share this with all of you. Thanks Julie! Keep Up the good work, we can't wait to see more...
I forgot to mention this is her first Wool Crazy Project. What a star, eh? You go girl!
Hope everyone is working on something fun! Brenda

New Wool Bundles, Now In Stock!

2010-07-08T04:19:00.005-04:00

Just a quick note to let everybody know that I have posted new wool bundles on the site. If you are looking for an assortment of colors at a great price, bundles are the way to go. These are 100% wool and they felt up beautifully. Pictured are both bundles together, lights and darks.

I have no idea why the image is flipped sideways, but if I waited to post until I figured it out you might miss these, they do sell out fast.
Keep cool and don't forget to show us what you're up to...
we love wool around here!

The First Wool Crazy Round Robin is Ending Soon!

2010-07-06T22:27:00.011-04:00

Seems like just yesterday I sent out my very first Wool Crazy pincushion base
to start its Round Robin journey across the country. Remember?

It was a sad little piece with one lonely boot to help it along.

Soon it was looking a little happier, after picking up some Candy Corns (in PA) to keep it company and then WHAM! It seems to disappear! I feared the worst for my little guy but I knew it would be safe in JoAnn's care and sure enough...when it left California, my baby had some friends.

Shortly thereafter it went into hiding again, this time Roseann was safeguarding it and wouldn't you know it, when it reappeared it was a bright and beautiful with Fall blooms and acorns...
So today when it arrived at my doorstep all decked out for Fall I was totally amazed at what a little trip around the country can do to a Wool Crazy little mat.... Stay tuned for the final chapter. This little mat will become a Wool Crazy Pincushion soon,
and I know it's going to knock your socks off! Woo-HOO!

It's a Wool Crazy Summer Around Here!

2010-07-04T22:02:00.007-04:00

With the first Wool Crazy Pincushion Round Robin quickly coming to an end. I've started a new round robin with a new group of Wool Crazy quilters, and we are well on our way with the first round, Now In Progress

This group of Wool Crazy fans includes

Joanna Martinez, Anna Romaine Fogg,

and Sharon Yeager.

The pic above is my contribution to Anna's pincushion base.

I was its first stop, and after my applique (you too can make this gorgeous butterfly , it's in your Wool Crazy book, it's a JoAnn Mullaly design!), I sent it off to Joanna who will add to it before sending it off to Sharon, who will add to it and then send it off to Anna.

To follow us along on this New Round Robin, just check my Facebook page.

All the pics are posted in the Wool Crazy Round Robin 2 Album.

Remember, this is a brand New Wool Crazy Round Robin....

new players, new themes, same old fun!

I will post the final pics of the first round robin when my pincushion base comes back home,

I can't wait to see it! You can visit the participants of the first round robin and see their wonderful creations on their blogs. Roseanne Kermes (did I mention she came up with the idea of starting a Wool Crazy Round Robin??? See what she started????, Thanks Roseanne, I would have never thought of it; and we're having so much fun!), JoAnn Mullaly (whose book started this wool craziness) and Pat Sloan (the super coordinator who organized the group! Not sure this woman ever sleeps). LOL!

Hope you're having a great Summer and that you don't forget that Wool is not only for the Winter...you can have some Wool Crazy Fun in the Summer too!!!

Don't forget to check my Facebook page for more pictures and updates!

Wool Crazy Pincushion, DONE!

2010-06-21T05:10:00.003-04:00

Roseann's Wool Crazy Pincushion is DONE! JoAnn put the finishing touches on it and it is a sight to behold. I have to admit I am amazed at the transformation but I shouldn't, after all, she did write the book! LOL!
You can read all about how she transformed this unfinished pincushion into a masterpiece HERE! This is one of four, one down, three to go! Woo-HOO! I can't wait to see the others!

This picture was taken by JoAnn Mullaly.

Wool Crazy Round Robin a la Pat!

2010-06-16T13:20:00.006-04:00

If you have been following our Wool Crazy Pincushion Round Robin you will remember seeing this cutie when it came by the Pumpkin Patch. Well, this week is had another great reveal over at Pat Sloan's place, where it was spiffed up some more. Isn't it amazing the way it goes from crazy wool to work of art? I love it! You can read all about Pat's additions to this cutie by

visisting her blog, HERE!

Hope you're all having some wool crazy fun!!!! =)

This picture was taken by Pat Sloan

The Wool Crazy Round Robin is Winding Down

2010-06-15T17:17:00.004-04:00

This is it folks, the end of the line. The last pincushion has landed in the Pumpkin Patch and is now ready to go home. This is Pat Sloan's Wool Crazy Pincushion. The heart was added by our very own JoAnn Mullaly, the flowers are also by one of our own, Roseann Kermes and lastly, the ladybugs and bonnet...well, those are my contribution. Pretty Spiffy, eh? LOL! Now the pincushions (all of them) will travel home and be transformed from mats to actual pincushions. I can't wait to see mine. ARGH! It left with only one little bootie . I can't wait to see it!

If you've missed the pincushions as they have paraded through the patch,

you can see them on Facebook in my Wool Crazy album.

Hope everyone is sitching up a storm. Please post your pics so we can share in your accomplishments!

Thanks so much for checking in. See you soon! Brenda

Wool Crazy Round Robin, Round Two!

2010-06-06T06:41:00.005-04:00

Our second round of the round Robin is in progress and mine is ready to ship. This one is Jo Anne's (as in JoAnn Mullaly, JAM, who is among our members and just happens to be the author of the Wool Crazy Book). I added the Pumpkin Stack and sunflowers. JoAnn added the acorn and leaves and Roseanne Kermes (who is also one of our members and cooked up this RR idea) added the acorn and crow. Now it will go to Pat Sloan who will add something to it and then it will return to JoAnn to finish it into the actual pincushion.

I have Pat's pincushion here so I will be working on that one today... OMG! That one is done in BRIGHTS. It's so cute!

Long Time Coming!

2010-05-13T10:13:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone -

It has been quite awhile since I've stitched on my Wool Crazy block :( Seems like once the weather turns, sewing takes a bit of a back seat until the outside is caught up!

Here is my center block - nothing fancy but I am making progress!

Embroidery resource : Mary Corbet

2010-05-10T14:44:00.001-04:00

http://www.needlenthread.com/videos

I found this online this morning and was impressed with the video library and how easily the stitches are explained.

Happy Sewing

Wool Crazy Round Robin Pincushion Arrival

2010-05-06T00:05:00.002-04:00

Roseanne's Wool Crazy Pincushion has landed in the Pumpkin Patch, and I must confess her bee skep has me intimidated...wow! Keep in mind this piece is only 6.5" rd. All that detail in that tiny little skep. Amazing! Not sure where I'm taking it from here but stay tuned, I will keep you posted! B=)

wool crazy

2010-05-02T17:37:00.000-04:00

A couple of recycled sweater animals have made their way onto my wool crazy :0).
What is everyone else up to?

It's a Wool Crazy Round Robin!

2010-05-01T18:37:00.004-04:00

And this is my Wool Crazy Pincushion, TADA!!!! Ok, so it's not finished, yet!

But it's ready to go off to go off and visit Pat Sloan, who will dress it up a little by adding some of her crazy whimsical charm, and then it will be shipped off to see Roseann Kermes, who will also add a little of her own craziness to it, and finally it will be shipped off to visit with JoAnn Mullaly who will add some of her magic to it before sending it back home to me so I can turn it into a real pincushion that I will treasure forever...woo-hoo!

I stitched mine by machine, and I also aplique'd the witch's boot by machine. No fingers with hurt in the making of this block, LOL! I will not be using Ms Bernina on anyone's blocks but since this one was for me and I

am determined to master the art of crazy wool quilting by machine, I decided I would make it on my machine. Turns out JoAnn has had machine warriors in her classes so I am not unique in my efforts. I hope I can master this skill at some point but I'm not holding my breath...although...

I didn't hang ANY of my sides on this block! HOORAY! I am so proud. No hand piecing was required. LOL! That alone, deserves a prize, hahaha!

I would show you how I made it but I am no expert so I will refer you to the ladies in the know... their blocks are done and ready to go too.

Mine will be the only rectangular one in the bunch but after I made my round one, I couldn't fit my boot so I thought I needed to make a background with less pieces and larger spaces for the applique.

I can't wait to see how my block will come home all dressed up. =)

Don't forget to check out the other pincushions that will be making the rounds:

See JoAnn's Pincushion HERE!

See Roseann Kermes Pincushion HERE!

See Pat Sloan's Pincushion HERE!

Talking Crazy ...

2010-04-26T02:21:00.008-04:00

Wool Crazy, That is...

Our favorite Wool Crazy lady herself, JoAnn Mullaly,

is making her radio debut on no other than Pat Sloan's Creative Talk Radio show.Set your clocks to listen live or tune in later to download the show and listen while you craft. Whatever you do, you don't want to miss this show.
TODAY!
Monday, April 26th. at 4PM! EST
Roseann Kermes and I will be joining Pat and JoAnn for a great reveal....
We have a crazy scheme going on and we're ready to let the cat out of the bag!
I've added a direct link so you can click and listen at 4...don't forget

Spoiler Alert:
There will be Giveaways after the show...oops, did I just say that? LOL!
Better go listen for details on those, and whatever you do,
do not tell anyone that I said that...HMMM!

Angora bunny

2010-04-24T13:36:00.000-04:00

I added this angora bunny to my first square.
How is everyone else coming along?
Happy sewing :0)

My Wool Scraps Arrived!

2010-04-22T10:50:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to say a big thanks to Brenda! My wool scraps arrived....now, what appliques will I be making with these pieces.....my mind is already racing! :)

Thank you Brenda!

Thanks Brenda

2010-04-21T19:43:00.002-04:00

I got my QUILT LIKE CRAZY sign in the mail today and I LOVE IT. Haven't quite decided where I am going to put it yet, still waiting for my sewing room to get emptied out so I can work on revamping it for my Vintage Taste.

THANKS AGAIN for all your hard work keeping the blog going and THANKS again for the sign.

MY FINDS at the QUILT SHOW in Rosemont Illinois

2010-04-19T19:58:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the threads I bought at the quilt show, now I have NO EXCUSE to not get busy on my WOOL CRAZY BLOCKS. I was so THRILLED with all the great threads I found, I didn't even buy any fabric, thought about buying some wool but then this little voice kept saying "What about all the wool in the trunk of your car?" So I opted out of buying. PROBABLY A GOOD THING TOO.

Wool Applique Needles

2010-04-17T15:37:00.004-04:00

Just a quickie post to let eveyone know that the Wool Applique needles are back in stock. There work great with the Valdani#12 threads. They are long like straw needles and I just love them. I've posted a link on the sidebar.=)

We have a Winner...and then some!

2010-04-16T13:44:00.005-04:00

I'm so sorry for taking so long to post this . Too much to do.. I'm sure you can all relate. But without further delays I present the Winner of our first challenge, drumroll please.... TADA!!! It's Tarrah from The Pottery Shed!

Tarrah will receive a wonderful bag of wool scraps perfect for her next step on the Wool Crazy journey, the fun part, the applique. Hooray! Congratulations to Tarrah. =)

But wait! I have more prizes... the other three ladies who worked so hard to complete the challenge will also receive a prize, yes! I love a challenge and although I personally flunked, these ladies did not, and that alone merits a prize ...and how's this for a super dooper cool prize?
A Quilt Like Crazy wood sign! To Tarrah, Jeanne, Kim and SD Quilter, thanks so much for taking part in the challenge and please do send me your mailing addresses via email so I can mail your prizes .
Hope everyone is having fun Quilting Like Crazy! B=)

Last Call for Pictures!

2010-04-14T09:02:00.002-04:00

Did you take me up on the challenge?

Did you post your picture?

Hurry, this is the last call for pictures! =)

Picture As Promised

2010-04-13T21:34:00.000-04:00

Here is my partially done block, this is my "farm" block, I plan on putting a little barn and a windmill on it yet. Maybe some other farmy stuff too, haven't quite decided yet. I am debating on doing all the embellishments and then doing the embroidery work or doing the embroidery work on each piece as I go along. It is fun working on it, relaxing and TIME CONSUMING TOO.

Moving Along

2010-04-13T16:45:00.004-04:00

Life has a way of interfering with my crafing. It's uncanny the way it always seems to make fun of me and my plans. I started Saturday nice and early and was on my way to success when I was sideswiped by "life". Isn't that always the way?
Needless to say, I lost my mojo, I lost my stride... and I didn't finish my block! Woe is me. =(
I did however make a big nice dent in it so here you go, this is what I have to show for my efforts. Nowhere near four hours but almost 3/4 done. I'd say, it's moving right along. See? My glass is half full, today! LOL!
The pins are there to stretch the pieces because I am too lazy to iron after every stitch. hahaha. I am using fusible batting so once it's ironed the pins go...see how some parts have no pins??? Those parts have been ironed.
It's looking pretty good, if I should say so myself. =)
Now for those who have not started I have to tell you, if you're not paying attention to what you are doing, crazy piecing will kick your butt! hahaha. Yes, I am no fan of piecing and I have to tell you that this crazy piecing is not helping my opinion of this particular step. I'll have to take pics of my
goofs to post separately. I just wanted to share what I did get done. And ask that those who signed up for the challenge post their pics. C'mon! You can show it, even if you didn't finish it, you stepped up to the plate so share your work...
I'm hoping to finish my block this week. I'm moving along. It's not about speed, it's about endurance. And as we say in Spanish, "Yo voy a Mi!" Loosely translated that means, "My money's on me!" Life will always get in the way, but we all have to work around those challenges so here's to moving along! Woo-HOO!
Oh, and post those pics...I'll wait till Wed to draw the winner. B=)

My Block Progress

2010-04-13T09:41:00.001-04:00

I will post a photo tonight, I am at work today. I got some embellishments and some appliques added to my 1st block this weekend. Next weekend is the Chicago Quilt Show and I am going. Planning on finding LOTS OF GOOD THREAD!!!!!!!!!! So wish me luck. And I will be posting my pics this evening.

First Block Ready For Stitching....

2010-04-12T00:27:00.002-04:00

This was done in slow steps over the whole weekend. I think the actual foundation square was intimidating enough to stop me from even getting started. Thanks, Brenda, for helping us see that we can do it! Now...onto all the ideas and trinkets and lovelies we have been collecting....

I did it! I completed the challenge!

2010-04-11T20:43:00.003-04:00

Well, only one finger cut later (I grabbed the rotary cutter with the blade up....OUCH!) I DID IT!!!!! Wooohooo....thanks Brenda for the jumpstart! I made the foundation for my very FIRST crazy quilt square! Now, it certainly isn't mistake free....I learned a few things as I went along, and I definately have a better idea of it now, but that doesn't matter....those mistakes will be hidden! :)
I won't take the time to point those mistakes out because I am quite embarassed by them, but oh well...live and learn. I never made a quilt like this before, I never did anything like this before with the crazy quilt piecing, so I think I did an ok job for being a first timer. ;)
So....here they are with the first two being the "in progress" pictures...the green gingham fabric that you see is the foundation fabric (what I sewed my wool on to).

You can see the rough cuts of the wool that I didn't trim down until I had them in place and sewn on.

And here is the finished square:

So, hopefully I will be the lucky one and win the wool scrap cuts now after my hard work!!!!!!! :)

New block done for challenge

2010-04-11T18:27:00.000-04:00

New 24" inch block ready for embroidery and applique.........done with the flip and sew method......wool batting in the center layer. Block number one continues to "grow" :0)
Happy sewing

A Challenge And Its Rewards...

2010-04-09T01:13:00.010-04:00

The first step in completing any project is actually getting started. Sometimes this is the hardest part. We have excuses; we don't have time, we don't have the "rest" of the stuff so why bother starting????, and so on and so forth... Well, I should know. I'm just like you.

No Wonder Woman here!

With this is mind I decided that maybe you need a little incentive, a little push to get started. I challenge you to piece one block this weekend, one crazy block background. I will make one background, and if I can do it, you can too. Four hours, that's how long I will invest in that one background. If I make it in two, well, I might make two... but if I only do one thing, I will make this one background, in four hours or less!

I am leaving the Wool Crazy Staring line,

are you coming with me?
Sign up to participate in this challenge by leaving a comment. This is a challenge to make one brand new block...piece one brand new background for your Wool Crazy quilt. This is not a challenge to complete the block, this is to piece that background of one block. Baby steps, I only have four hours. I set myself up for success; you should too!
I will give away a wonderful Wool Scrap bag (One Gallon Sized Plastic Bag, I just emptied into a basket for a better view but that's just the top of the pile...aren't they gorgeous?)containing scraps of all sizes, colors and textures. All hand dyed wool, All these yummy woolens are from my Shoppe. They come from wool bundles, samples, and kits I have made. All these wonderful scraps are perfect for applique projects and for your Wool Crazy Blocks! Yep, the same ones I use in my bundles, my kits and my own wool projects.

You'll love these!
I will draw a luck winner only from those participating in the challenge.

To be in the running you must leave a comment and post a picture of your completed block (NEW BLOCKS ONLY! If you have one in progress take this opportunity to set it aside and piece that second background this weekend! This quilt has four blocks and I don't think any of our members has completed three blocks yet so that shouldn't be an issue. Well, except for JAM, LOL! ) Again, leave a comment (with your blog address) so I know who is IN. We have 34 members so your chances are really good! Make the commitment, join the fun, you can do it. One background and then you are ready to start the fun part... the applique!

Leave the starting gate with me this weekend. We can do it together! I will give away the wool regardless of how many participants take me up on the challenge. If only one person makes the block...well she's in luck, and that could be YOU! It goes without saying that this challenge is only open to the 34 Pumpkin Patch Primitives Wool Crazy Sew Along Members. Membership has its privileges around here.

Note: New members are always welcome but only the 34 active members at the time of this post will qualify to enter the Challenge Giveaway.

Start your Wool Crazy Journey this weekend....join the fun and seal the deal by joining the Challenge! Brenda=)

I'm Biting The Bullet!

2010-04-09T00:38:00.009-04:00

OMG! I am officially starting my first block. I can do it, I know I can... I have set aside four hours on Saturday to piece the background (not sure how many blocks I will make (as in piecing the background only...no applique), maybe just one but one is a start, a real good one!
Four hours might not be enough time to make the mess, sew the block and clean it up but I'm thinking I'll have to stock up on Red Bull, LOL!
I know many of you are feeling the craziness but taking the leap of faith is the hardest part so If you're not sure where to start I suggest you check out how the pros do it... yep, YOU TUBE!

This is the lead I have chosen to follow:

The way she does it seems pretty simple. No muss , no fuss. (You didn't really think I was piecing that background by hand, did you? LOL! Fat chance. I'm not that good!) Piecing is my absolute least favorite part of quilting. UGGG. I am piecing it with an open mind. I am not stressing over what goes where, I refuse to be bogged down by technical difficulties. Life is too short to spend it worrying about those things (I should know, my Dad always has spare parts when he builds things...yet they always seem to work just fine. Kind of makes you wonder, huh?)

Anyway, for all you new Crazy quilters I say Take the leap with me. Four hours, this weekend. Post your progress. I have a surprise for Monday so post your background by Sunday night. Four hours...leave the starting gate!

Spring

2010-03-29T17:45:00.000-04:00

I'm making a little progress on my first wool crazy square. I've been sewing in the car!

Happy Spring.
Spring!

Happy Spring

2010-03-25T17:37:00.003-04:00

This bunny running through the garden just shouts spring....It is the work of one of my friends, Jan Gartland in my Wool Crazy classes. I thought you'd enjoy seeing it....Isn't it great? Hope spring is showing up in your back yards!

Happy Spring and great stitching to you all...Jo Ann

OMG! Look what I found!

2010-03-22T00:49:00.004-04:00

Have you ever been looking for one thing and stumbled upon something else that so blew your mind that you forgot what the heck you were looking for? Hello?

That's what happened to me. I was minding my own business doing a search for something and somehow, I have no idea what I was looking for or how I came to be at this particular spot but...look what I found!

Wool Crazy, Block#1

(you might want to hold on to your socks, lest you get them blown off when you see her work!)

Wool Crazy, Block#2

Yeah....she's so far ahead she can't even see me in her rear view mirror! LOL! Amazing!

Sorry for the lack of images, I don't mean to tease, I just didn't want to use her images without her consent so I left her a comment asking for permission. In the meantime go take a look at her work; and hang on to your socks! Woo-HOO!

L0vin' this project!!

2010-03-21T11:16:00.005-04:00

First of all , thanks to everyone for sharing their work~ you are such a huge inspiration to me as I figure out each block here at Robinhill~

Some vintage beads to play with~

More wool scraps from my collection~

My life in wool thus far

2010-03-20T11:12:00.004-04:00

Here is what I have completed so far on my "wool crazy" block.
The first block will represent the first twenty years of my life.
So far I have stitched...
the baby carriage for my birth date...
the antique lace butterfly, representing the journey of growing into a young woman...
the Dutch windmill and tulip.
I am first generation American, my parents immigrated along with my sister to the US a little over 50 years ago, all my relatives still live in Holland and although I don't live there and am very happy to live here in the US, I still feel a strong connection to Holland.

Once all the appliques are stitched onto the block, I will go back "fancy" things up with some more embellishment.

If my block looks a little different from the others it is because I have had to change my layering method on my block slightly from the perfect way that JoAnn Mullaly has instructed. I have done this only because I have some health issues that effect my hands and I needed to improvise a little to making the hand stitching more comfortable and possible for me.

I am SO enjoying stitching in wool and hope that you all are enjoying it as much also.

Happy Stitching, Happy National Quilting Day and Happy Spring everyone!

Tammy
from Treadleworks by Tammy and it's finally Spring in PA :)

Progress

2010-03-11T13:59:00.002-05:00

I'm making progress on my crazy quilt and finding that it just seems to lead you to what to add and where to put it once it gets started. Here is a picture of what I have finished to date. The fence isn't quite finished.

Wool Crazy: ANOTHER CRAZY FROM THE COUNTRY LOFT

2010-03-08T11:16:00.000-05:00

Wool Crazy: ANOTHER CRAZY FROM THE COUNTRY LOFT

some progress

2010-03-06T22:54:00.000-05:00

I've really enjoyed the time I have spent on this project.....more ideas are coming but I had to include this red ribbon...it was on my Valentine's card from DH :0).
Happy sewing, Kim

Slowly but surely!!

2010-03-05T15:22:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone~my name is Eileen and I joined the Wool Crazy Sew Along to keep me on track with this new wonderful project!! I have been stealing a little time here and there ALL week to get my background done so I could begin the applique~ I am a huge fan of wool and have plenty of beautiful scraps to support this and many more projects~ I will check in often for inspiration!! You can visit me at~ http://robinhillquilts.blogspot.com

4th block

2010-03-03T06:02:00.003-05:00

Fourth block ready. size 16 x 8 inch. You can see the other blocks on my blog when you click on the label WISP.

http://malinaplass.blogspot.com/

new girl

2010-02-28T08:28:00.004-05:00

Hi all, I am new to this blog, so let's introduce myself. My name is Ati, I live in Norway but I am originally from the Netherlands. I am a quilter for more than 20 years but the last 6 years I do a lot of crazy quilting. Last year I started with a quilt from old wool clothes. Two blouses, two skirts and a dress. Those clothes were from the late '70 early '80. I have sewn naked blocks from it. This is the centre block which is 16 inch square. I have blocks 8x16"and 8x8 ".
Most of the seams I figure out by myself and sometimes I have a look in Carol Samples' book.
Thanks to Kaaren who let me join this group. I hope when I see all your nice work that it is a stimulus for me to embroider all my naked block this year and make a nice lap-quilt of it.
I have a blog: http://malinaplass.blogspot.com/

Introduction with some questions!

2010-02-25T11:06:00.003-05:00

Hi! My name is Tarrah Miller from http://indiantrailpottery.blogspot.com/ and I finally ordered and received this great book! I live in Pa, and yes we still are getting snow! Anyway, I am so excited to start, but yet hesitating because I do have quite a few questions....I will get to those in a minute. Let me first say that all of you are a great inspiration and all of these pictures of your blocks look fantastic! Thank you Brenda for putting together this great blog and allowing us to freely chat about our progress and ask for ideas and help when needed! :)
I have read every post and I still have a few beginning questions...trust me, I will have sooooo many more when I truely get started, but in the meantime, here it goes: ok, I know JoAnn suggests using valdani variegated pearl cotton size 8 for the stitching...where do I find this, and do you all really recommend buying this? I have never used it before and I wasn't sure if this was the next best thing to chocolate or what?! LOL!!! :) Also when you lay your wool out onto your blocks, how are most of you attaching them to each other, hand sewing or machine, or are you just fusing them down and they are then held down by your nice crazy stitches? I need to get all my materials and supplies, so I won't start yet, but I need to understand it all first and then hope to really get moving on it.
Thanks in advance for all your help!
Tarrah

2 new blocks

2010-02-24T17:31:00.002-05:00

Here are my first 2 blocks, I did 12"x24" blocks to start with and then I will do a 24"x24" so the top row will have 1 24"x24" block and 2 12"x24" blocks, and the bottom row will be the opposite with the 2 12" blocks going 1st and the 24" block going last. The horse that is on the block isn't the one that is going on there, that one is leather, just a sample, then I plan on putting a fence, a little barn, etc. on that one. The Pins take away from the 2nd block so try to look past them. OPINIONS???????

A Start

2010-02-23T22:04:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!!
I was finally able to start Block 1 :)
I am finding that working with the wool and crazy patch layout is far more fun than I expected!
And then there is the applique, that has always has been a love of mine.
As I mentioned in a previous post I will be making my quilt into a stitched journal of my life, block 1 being my first 20 years....so we have a baby carriage and a birth date so far.

I also wanted to share a little tip...instead of using pins or basting to hold down the edges of the wool pieces and keep them in place. I used a fusible tape (sewable weight) underneath the edge of the wool. I did use steam in order to get the fusing agent to melt, being careful not to scorch the wool...you may want to use a pressing cloth over the wool when pressing if you use the fusible tape.

So far I haven't had any problems sewing through the fused edge and believe it will work just fine for my quilt.

Happy Stitching everyone!!
Tammy, in it's snowing again PA

The Beginning!

2010-02-21T18:39:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone -

I have jumped into the wool pile - and here is my foundation block.

I like the primitive, rustic-y look so have chosen dark colors so my applique will stand out. I've just pinned it together so far - next need to stitch the seams. My foundation - I used batting, muslin and wool on the top - seems to be a bit bunchy - any suggestions? I am so excited to finally achieved "lift off!" Happy sewing to all the wool-ites!

wool crazy

2010-02-20T13:26:00.005-05:00

Well ladies here is my start, I love all the work everyone is doing. Better pictures next time I hope. I had to start with the crow, I love them!

I'm still adding to his block! I hoping to do some sewing after finishing the housework? What is housework! LOL

First for Nat from Australia

2010-02-20T04:50:00.011-05:00

Woo hoo! My first block was born! I'm so excited to finally put together my first Woo Crazy block. I love how it looks so far even though I don't have as many colors as I would like. My block is only 22" square because my foundation fabric was only 22" wide. My quilt is going to be smaller than the one in the book. I am happy with that.

I think this block is going to be a garden block with flowers, birds, and yes, hearts. I have to have hearts in all the blocks. I love hearts and maybe star or two.

I only managed to embellish one bit of it so far. I just love working with wool. I love the feel of the wool and I can be free stitching the motives down without too much accuracy.

A close-up of the stitching. I used my hand-dyed pearl threads for embroidery. The instruction called for fusible web applique, but I found that wool being quite thick it didn't work very well, so I will not used fusible web again. I am going to just use small pins to keep the pieces down while stitching.

Enjoy and I hope to see you on my blog

Hugs

Nat

I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH YOUR ONGOING REPORTS

2010-02-19T04:45:00.000-05:00

Hi girls,
I am sooo impressed with your quilt progress, that you are putting together, that I just HAVE to order this book, to start my version of th is. My wonderful blogger friend Paulette has put be in touch with this fabulous blog. Thank you so much for sharing your progress, it is very inspirational. I cant wait to get started as soon as the book arrives.I

Slowly but Surely

2010-02-17T16:51:00.000-05:00

Don't know why I have had so much trouble understanding the order of wool, foundation, batting.
I have always said my brother got the brains(Phd.), my sister got the creativity(Linda Brannock) and I think I got a good touch of ADHD. The way people say things is not the way I hear them .

Ok I think I have it right tho and am beginning to put on some wool. Everyone is way ahead of me but I can't wait to get to some stitching.

Is that looking right? Of course I have much more wool to add to the foundation.

Monday Check In

2010-02-15T18:29:00.002-05:00

I haven't made too much progress since last week but a little.
I took a quilt class this past week and the teacher asked if we'd bring in a little show and tell on Friday. I brought my crazy quilt and and Jean Wells, the owner of the Stitchin' Post in Sisters, borrowed my copy so she would be sure to order some in! I'm so happy word is getting around about this lovely fun quilt.

I'm Nat from Australia

2010-02-14T00:40:00.021-05:00

Hi everyone. I'm Nat from Melbourne Australia. Thanks for letting me play with you and the wool. I have a pile of wool and the Wool Crazy book and now I'm ready to play! My book came quickly. I was so delighted, thank you. I have been working with crazy quilt (CQ) for ages, but this is going to be my first wool crazy. I just love the look of Wool CQ. I'm really looking forward to it.

Here are some of the felted wool that I made myself from woolen fabrics. I have been collecting 100% woolen clothing such pleated skirts, shirts and anything else I can find. After I trim off all the bands and cuffs I put them in the washing machine with the temperature setting of 194'F or 90'C. I add a small amount of wool wash liquid in with the wool fabric. I set my machine on the longest cycle with cold rinse. After the wash is finished you will get yourself beautiful felted wool.

I even got my hand dyed thread ready to be used. I love using my hand dyed thread. Some of them are silk threads. The purple blue on the right and pink and green are silk threads. Do any of you dye your own fabrics or threads?

I hope to see you on my blog sometimes at: notjustnat

Enjoy

Nat

Progress Block #1

2010-02-14T00:05:00.000-05:00

Well, I got to work on my block today. Yea! So far I am not liking the contrast of the threads I used. I also feel that I could use some lighter colors of wool for some of the applique. But, so far so good, all of the background pieces are sewed down to the muslin. It has been a little hard for me to handle, maybe I need to use a hoop to help me hold it. Let me know if there are any tips for how to handle the bulk of the block while doing the embroidery. It has been years since I have done this type of stitching. On my next block I might do the applique & embroidery first and then sew the pieces to the foundation.

Roll Out Those...Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days of Winter..

2010-02-13T11:30:00.001-05:00

Yes, I’m still plugging away on the Wool Crazy Quilt with five blocks done!

I added this Christmas stocking…and on the stars I put my daughters’ initials…I know it’s hard to see..I should try taking these pictures outside.

But you get the idea..

Three little chicks…

…and their mama. Each block seems to take forever…but it is good, crazy, fun thing to do in the trailer or while sitting in the lawn chairs…YES THE SUN IS SHINING!! There’s nothing like the smell of wool mixed with sunscreen!! Ahhhh….

YIKES!! What a mess! Yes this is the back of my Wool Crazy Quilt!! Some of the other Wool Crazy bloggers ‘out there’ wanted us to share the underside! You can see that most of my stitches go right through the batting- so I am really quilting my quilt as I go! It’s a good thing that this mess will get covered when I am finished! Now I don’t want to scar you for life, so let me leave you with visions of the front rather than the back! ;o)

There you have it! My little quilt is S-L-O-W-L-Y taking shape…. Till next time…

Have a super Saturday and Happy Quilting!

Show and Tell...

2010-02-12T23:28:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I know the back of your block is not the most glamorous part but would someone who is already working on their block post a picture of what the back is supposed to look like???
I have read the instructions over and over, and I don't get how this is supposed to work. Do your stitches go through ALL three layers?
Please do show us how yours looks, for those of us who are trailing so far behind that you can't see us...pretty please...=)

Hey Ladies

2010-02-12T22:07:00.001-05:00

Kaaren:

Thanks for inviting me, this will be FUN, maybe I will get in the mood to sew again. BEEN A LONG WINTER HERE. So where did everyone get their book, I haven't been able to find it anywhere yet.

thank you

2010-02-12T10:37:00.000-05:00

Thank you for the welcome to your group.
I am a wool lover from Warsaw, Missouri and I work at Saltbox Primitive Woolens a wool store here.
Probably one of the largest in Missouri.
I will be using my stash of recycled wool tho. Before we had a shop we used to buy lots of wool cloths and than spend a week at the camp ground in our campers dismanteling wool. Good times, good memories, now we are all to busy.
I have just started putting my block together so I will have pictures soon.
Today is hooking day at the Saltbox so I am off to finish binding a rug.

Hello, My name is Tammy

2010-02-09T13:08:00.003-05:00

I have decided to come out of lurkdom (is that a word?) and say "hello"!
I also wanted to share what I am up to with the Wool Crazy project. (sorry no pics yet)

I just received my book and have been gathering and ordering wool.
This will be my first real wool project :) and I am very excited about it!
I have also ordered some Valdani pearl cotton and am not so patiently waiting for the package to arrive. I would love to start stitching especially with a big snow storm on the way tonight.

I have been giving this project quite a bit of thought and have decided that I will like to make my Wool Crazy quilt as a journal of my life.
The first block being the first 20 years of my life, the second block the second 20, the third block of what is going on in my life now and then the last block all that I hope and dream for in the future.
Four seasons of nature, four seasons of life :)

I would like to thank Kaaren for being blog hostess and for all of you who have shared your quilts thus far and inspired me.

Until next time,
Best wishes and stitches!
Tammy

Monday Update

2010-02-08T12:19:00.003-05:00

Here’s what I have so far this Monday. My stitches need a little work, but overall I think it’s coming along OK. I think mine will be a bit more prim then the original, but that’s what will make it mine. I’m hoping to see my stitches improve. I’ve had to remove and resew a few times. Later in the week I’ll be able to get some more thread to work with and that may help too.

Is everybody else getting a good start?

I updated the photo since it didn't seem like you could see much. I wasn't using my regular computer when I posted this earlier.

Let's Get Serious..

2010-02-07T10:38:00.001-05:00

Quilting Sue thinks that my Raggedy Andy is looking for his Raggedy Ann…what ‘ROMANCE’ happening on MY quilt? I kind of like the idea…sick as it may be…. But I got to watch that Quilting Sue!! She is a bad influence!!

So what have I been up to? Quilting/sewing is not as easy as it sounds in a small 5th Wheel…So last night I got organized…

I pulled out ALL my wool…which isn’t that much as most of it is at home! I organized it into colours and put it into pile. I traced 6 or 7 of my favourite appliqué projects onto heat and bond (I use it like freezer paper), ironed it onto the wrong side of my wool pieces and put each block into it’s own little bag.

I took the cat appliqué pattern and cut off the head and drew my own Molly dog head. I have to wait to do a Rylie dog as I have no black and white wool. See how easy it is to make this quilt your own..!

Now I am ready to do some serious stitching…AND no Raggedy Ann is not in one of those bags…yet..!

Have a super Sunday and Happy Stitching!

Block One...Done!!

2010-02-05T16:16:00.001-05:00

Block one is ALMOST done…just a few more little pink roses around the top and I get to pick my next appliqué design! So exciting!!

I spent the last two evening whip stitching all the edges of the crazy blocks…it makes it so much easier as now I don’t have to worry about fraying.

I am using #8 perle cotton and I LOVE it!! No fraying, tangling or breaking! I will NEVER use embroidery floss again!!

JoAnn was right…working on a flat surface and using a #2 Crewel needle does the trick!! It was a pleasure working on the rest of this block!

Flat surfaces are scarce in our 5th wheel so I used my computer lap table…worked like a charm!

How is your Crazy Quilt coming along?

Happy stitching to you!!

wool craziness

2010-02-04T15:35:00.001-05:00

A little progress! You can check out more pics, tips and info on my personal blog: (I have included the source of the tea dye spray) http://mylifeisastitch.blogspot.com/2010/02/wool-craziness-round-two-and-farmers.html

What a day!! What a SHOP! WHAT A QUILT!

2010-02-03T11:02:00.001-05:00

The Country Loft in La Mesa, California is an INCREDIBLE quilt shop…EVERYONE needs to go there at least once. It’s like Disneyland for the quilter…a shop full of GOOD THINGS at every turn…sensory overload!

Before I share the Country Loft with you, I need to introduce you to JoAnn Mullaly, the autor of Wool Crazy! JoAnn’s sister is the owner of Country Loft and JoAnn teaches class there twice a week.

This is JoAnn and look what is hanging to her right!! The original Wool Crazy quilt!! Gorgeous is an understatement!! I’m sorry about the glare but the window was right above the quilt…and it is sunny California! You only see the top two squares of the quilt as a shelf is in front of the rest. JoAnn is as nice as her smile!! She was wonderful…talked about her quilt and gave us all kinds of tips…which I had better share today before I forget them!!

JoAnn used number 8 Valdani Perle Cotton to do her fancy seam stitches as she really wanted to have them pop…she really achieved her goal..Her beautiful stitches really make your jaw drop! Just lovely!!

And her embroidery work really brings her appliqué figures to life..Look at Santa holding the twig of babies breath…it’s these little touches that REALLY make this quilt.

Both these pictures are of the border…perfect!!

Tip Number ONE~ If you can, go with the batting behind your appliqué work!! It makes each little appliqué figure pop even more! I asked her if she had stuffed certain shapes and she said no it was the batting that gave that effect. Loved it!

Tip Number TWO~

When you are working on your stitching, work on a flat surface. Spread your block out and work that way..then it won’t be as bulky.

Tonight when I work on my block I am going to get my laptop computer board out and try working on that. I think it will help a lot!!

Tip Number THREE~ Use Crewel Number 2 Needles when doing your fancy stitches on your seams as they handle the bulk better. JoAnn said they work like a dream. These needles are even bigger than the Chenille #24 needles that Claire suggested. (I used the Chenille #24 last time I worked on my block and it was WAY easier so I can’t wait to try my new Crewel needles).

Here’s JoAnn’s little house…notice how it is slightly wonky…but that is what gives it charm. I think I need to remind myself that my appliqué pieces shouldn’t be perfect….also it’s the embroidery that gives it that whimsical, primitive look!

All in all, I learned a lot from my visit to the Country Loft!! JoAnn and her sister were wonderful. And very approachable…JoAnn said numerous times that if we have any questions she’s only a click away…

So ladies let’s get Crazy…Wool CRAZY!! But first I’m off to the Clubhouse for quilting!! Yikes, I don’t want to be late!

Tomorrow I will show you around my NUMBER ONE favourite quilting shop! Yes, Country Loft has now taken the title of being the BEST of THE BEST!!

Have a wonderful Wednesday and Happy Quilting!

2010-02-03T09:26:00.002-05:00

Did anyone notice that JoAnn left a comment full of great tips? Dorothy you need to read the comments and it will give you a lot of the information you need. There are many resources online for wool. You won't need a lot of any one color.

I have to say that there is certainly a learning curve when it comes to stitching the appliques and seams. It is getting easier for me and I've found ways to hold the piece without bunching it all up, especially when I am working toward the center. I did put warm and natural on the back and I'm liking it a lot, just don't pick it up to take a few stitches while wearing black!!

Lori

Questions From An Aussie “Wool-ite”

2010-02-03T08:10:00.001-05:00

I’ve taken the liberty to copy and paste this email here in order for you all to see and to offer suggestions to Dorothy’s questions. Please take a moment to read it and for those of you who have started their journey, do you have any tips that you might want to share with Dorothy?

Thanks gals,

Kaaren ♥

Hello,

My name is Dorothy and I live in Australia and have just bought the Crazy Quilt book.

I have sewn two wool quilts from Primitive Gatherings and smaller wool items too.

The biggest hurdle I have is getting wool. I have bought a lot online and have even dyed old wool coats and jackets because in a land of Merino sheep there is no wool in the shops.

I attained Sue Spargo's class last year in Melbourne and started her Magnolia quilt.

She brought all the wool with her. She is coming back in August and it would be great to see her again. The wool when we can get it is $24 a Fat1/4.

I came across your blog and it has already shown me that the wool looks lumpy

until it is sewn down. Your pictures of what you are doing are so encouraging, please keep on putting up your photos.

Can I ask? Are you putting cotton batting behind as stated in the book and how hard is it to sew through all thicknesses?

I don't have a blog, maybe I should start one though I seem to spend enough time online as it is.

Dorothy

wool, applique, embroidery, craziness

2010-02-02T17:18:00.000-05:00

Hey gals...
The wool craziness has started in my world. Here's my link to my blog posting.
http://mylifeisastitch.blogspot.com/2010/02/wool-applique-embroidery-craziness.html
It's been a while since I've worked with wool as the base of the project. Still loving it.
Also loving seeing all the other works in progress on all your sites.

Layout , Marj's block

2010-02-02T01:21:00.000-05:00

I traced the things that I wanted to use from the book and decided where to put them. Next I will have to cut out all the little pieces.

Appliqué

2010-02-01T11:02:00.002-05:00

This is what I have finished as of last night. I’ve had to change my thinking a little because of the thickness of the seams. I did two basic stitches with the seams basted and it wasn’t working for me. So I decided I would whipstitch the seams closed with matching thread and do the decorative stitches directly over the whipstitch. I have a few more appliqué shapes I’d like to get stitched down, then I’ll do a bit of embroidery.

Anybody else having a difficult time stitching with it being so thick?

Yikes!

2010-02-01T11:02:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I started stitching my Crazy Wool quilt and I must admit I was wondering what I was doing wrong! I’m not new to working with wool…I have made about ten wool runners and table toppers and just recently made a wool quilt …and they were all a joy to make. So why was this so difficult?

This Crazy Quilt, although it is only 24 inches, felt big and bulky and the needle didn’t want to slip through the wool like it use to! YIKES!Remember I am stitching through wool, the muslin foundation and the batting. It felt a lot like machine quilting a big bulky quilt..you know the part where you are trying to quilt the middle of the quilt…well that’s what this felt like. I think it was because I started on the middle block and with the bulk of the batting I couldn’t grab the quilt with my left hand like I use to… but once I got use to the struggle of working with the bulk of the batting it became easier. And I’m sure the other blocks will go much quicker and be less painful as the bulk will be less…or at least I hope so…

My friend, Claire suggested using a Chenille needle #24 and she was right~ it does go through the wool MUCH easier.

Chenille #24 needles have a larger eye to accommodate the perle cotton or wool thread. Because the needle is a lot thicker it makes a larger hole in the fabric which makes it easier for the thread to pass through the fibres. This is especially important if you are using the wool threads as they get worn very easily and the fibres rub off. I even found this with my table toppers.. I would often use shorter lengths of thread to avoid this from happening. Also Claire warned us that when our appliqué pieces are tiny, the chenille needle is too big to use for sewing them on. But it should be perfect for doing the stitching along the seams of the crazy quilt- Don’t worry…I will keep you posted!!

(You can get a package of Chenille needles #24 for $1.49 at Michael’s.)

So now you know…I live in a blue house, with a yellow/orange rose bush growing up the front arbour and a big tree off to one side…ahhhhh HOME…I think I’m getting homesick!!

Today I am off to downtown Palm Springs with two gals from home. We thought we would do a bit of ‘window shopping’, hang with the movie stars and have a bit of lunch…:o)

Oh, and tomorrow…we are off to San Diego…my husband will so some sightseeing…(yes…I will look at his pictures…ha ha). Where will I be you ask?? Why I will be killing time in the Country Loft Quilt Shop~ hopefully talking to JoAnn Mullaly author of “Wool Crazy” and doing a bit of shopping!! I will also be stopping off at The Fat Quarter Shop in Vista!!

Ahhh…retirement is grand!!

Have a marvellous Monday and Happy Quilting!!

Base for block 1

2010-01-31T19:26:00.000-05:00

I worked on the base for the block and was able to get it laid out. Next, I need to baste it to the muslin and then start to add applique to it.

My book arrived

2010-01-30T15:39:00.000-05:00

Bandit was my helper last night as I trimmed all of the usable parts from my thrift store finds.

Here is the finished pile, my new stash of wool scraps. This will give my Wool Crazy quilt my own flair and enable me the chance to enlarge it if I would like later.

Saturday's mail brought the Wool Crazy Book and first installment of Primitive Gatherings "Wool Crazy Ladies Club" BOM.

I'm glad that I signed up with this club, because they sent extra instructions that were much more detailed than the book. As a beginner I found this very helpful and the full size layout sheet didn't hurt. Now I'm off to get started........Marj

Time For....Sew and Tell....

2010-01-29T11:13:00.002-05:00

Everyone in Blogland is buzzing about JoAnn Mullaly book, 'Wool Crazy'...as they should!! The more I look at this book, the more I love it!! Even if you NEVER make the Crazy Quilt you WILL love it for the gorgeous applique patterns! Next time you are in a quilt shop, pick up this book and flip through it....I guarantee that you will end up buying it!! AND NO I am not getting any $$ to promote this book...;o)

So this is what I have been up to…

Yes, I sacrificed a package of Starbucks coffee to tone down my yellow wool…. So with the smell of wet wool and coffee permeating the 5th wheel…I did a lot of this….

And with my trusty bible beside me (Wool Crazy by JoAnn Mullaly) I did A LOT of this…arranging and rearranging…harder than you think!!

YIKES!…What a mess….

BUT…it was worth it…so step one is done!! As I look at this picture there are a lot of pieces I would like to change…BUT the camera has made the yellow jump out …there are some pieces I would like to move…but they are basted down so they are going to STAY….I SAID…STAY….

No, I am NOT talking to you…good dogs!! (The secret to GOOD dogs is lots of walks and three trips to the Dog Park every day…see it works…)Now if only my wool would STAY!

So now I need to cut off the edges to my 24 inch block (it is now 26 inches), baste down the edges and give it a good pressing. And then, according to JoAnn, the REAL fun starts…the appliqué!! She has SO many beautiful appliqué patterns to choose from that I think the difficult part is going to be to actually PICK one!!

So this is as far as I got last night....how about you? What did you get done? Come on 'Sew and Tell" time......

check out this blog

2010-01-29T10:59:00.003-05:00

ladies,

I read this blog and the lady went to The Country Loft and took pictures of the quilt Wool Crazy and the designer, Joann Mullaly. The pictures are marvelous, you can click on them for larger pictures and really see the detail in the quilt. Go and enjoy!

http://rosebudscottage.typepad.com/rosebuds_cottage/2010/01/primitive-paradise.html

from Richmond VA, awaiting the snowstorm!