News from the Island

Upcoming Demos are added frequently.  Please check here for updates.

June 21st, Quilted Strait in Port Gamble (WA) 11am-2pm

October 3rd, Gig Harbor (WA) Quilter's Guild 1:30pm





Pattern of the Month Highlights

The Pokey Pincushion is something I love.  Here is why. Laura proposed we make a pattern for a pincushion. I was skeptical.  I had a pincushion. It was made by a dear relative that had passed away.  It was what I used.  Period.  But Laura has a way of encouraging.  So we designed a very simple pattern.  Oh, my goodness!  I love it! 

I still use the sentimental pincushion by my sewing machine.  A place of honor.  But the Pokey Pincushion is so wonderfully easy and perfect in every way and I love, love, love the walnut shell stuffing.  So this pincushion sits on my ironing board.  Or I move it to the cutting table.  Or I move it to the side table when I’m hand sewing.  I never knew I needed another pincushion.  Now I want two more. I will play with color when I make them.  You might need one (or more) too and this pattern is affordable and so darn easy! BGQ1203, Pin Cushion Filling.

Tips and Tricks for Floormats

Embellishment Ideas:  

1.  Did you know that you can add ribbons and ric rac to your floor mats? 

It's easy.  First be sure to prime your ribbon or ric rac while priming your fabrics.  Let it dry and then iron back to flat.  It can take a bit more glue while adhering your ribbons/ric rac to your mat.  You can either add your embellishments only to the front of your mat - say, along a seam or you can wrap the ribbon to the back - just leave about an inch for wrapping.  Add the embellishments after the fabric is glued down but before you've added the first coat of glue across the top.

Be sure to let it dry fully after gluing and between coats!  When sanding, just a light touch is all you need.  If you have very delicate ribbons, just skip the sanding all together.  Test for colorfast on all ribbons and ric rac.

2.  A fun idea is to make a floor mat for a school teacher, say kintergarden for example, or a new bride or a new mom,  It's a wonderful and personal gift.

After gluing your mat together but before adding the first coat of glue, have the kintergarden class sign it!  Or have the bridal shower attendees or baby shower attendees sign the border.  Then take the mat home and finish it and give it as a special gift to the teacher, bride or new mom!  Be sure to use a permanent marker, such as a Sharpie.  Such a lovely gift!

3.  Why not make a spring floor mat by gluing seed packets to a beautiful floral fabric?

This was an idea given to us by Debby at Sew Expo.  I'm passing it along.  Make your mat out of a floral design.  Add a special touch by gluing seed packets onto the mat.  I would cut the backs off first and get the front trimmed how you like it.  Then simply glue them onto the front any way you like.  Fabulous!