Appli-fuse Mat

 

As we are writing this newsletter, we are bracing for yet another winter storm.  Hopefully the forecasters missed this one and we sail along with no freezing rain or sleet.  We've noticed an influx of robins so are hoping spring temperatures are just around the corner. This week we are sharing a really cute wool applique project which reminds us of early spring.  Henny Penny was designed by Maggie Bonanomi and has that wonderfully primitive feel we enjoy so much.  Your $38.95 "Henny Penny" kit includes the pattern, background cottons, wool for applique, binding AND backing fabric.  It finishes 11 1/2" x 33".   We are always looking for new tools to make our quilting life easier.  When Kay saw the Appli-fuse Mat she asked us to order one so she could give it a test.  She said it is not only very useful for the intended purpose but also works well as a non-slip appliquick mat.  It is the perfect surface for fusing, ironing and gluing.   The Appli-Fuse Mat is made of a silicone and glass fiber material that is heat resistant up to 500 degrees F.  For fusible applique (both wool and cotton), place the applique design under the mat. Since the mat is transparent, the cut applique shapes can be placed perfectly. Since it is heat resistant, multiple layers can be placed simultaneously and pressed with a hot iron. The layered appliques can then be picked up as one piece and placed on the background fabric. The mat is slightly tacky so the pieces won’t migrate when positioned. The mat also works well when using a glue gun since it can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees F.  It also works well as a non-slip mat when using the Appliquick method.  Any globs of glue will flake off easily and protect the table underneath. Clean the mat with soap and water or place it in the dishwasher. The mat is available in multiple sizes: 12" x 12" - $19.99, 12" x 18" - $29.99, 17" x 24" - $37.99, and 14" x 43" - $59.99.  We are placing an order for mats next week so please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com with your size choice(s).  You may also pre-order via https://www.sewgracefulquilting.com/  This week for our "when it's gone, it's gone" section we are featuring our last kit for Hen House.  Your $24.95 kit includes the pattern, cotton fabrics for applique, background fabric, borders and binding.  Hanger is not included.  Finishes 20" x 20" Please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com to reserve. This week for our Sample Sale, we are featuring a darling spring project stitched by Darlene.  "Easter Parade" was designed by Lily Anna Stitches.  The background and applique are wool; binding and backing fabric are cotton.  15" x 15".  $55 plus shipping Please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com to reserve. .......please excuse the somewhat whonky photo......we were at the shop scurrying to get a quick snapshot before the winter weather arrives.

Hope to see you soon. Debby and Darlene

A new Kathy Schmitz hexagon wall hanging

We have a lot to share this week so will jump right in.  Be sure to read all the way to the bottom of the newsletter as we are adding a new feature.   We are pretty sure many can relate to the next thought we'd like to share.......have you ever committed to something with full intentions of following through but when the time came to prepare realized you had over committed?  Last year when we submitted our application to vend at the quilt show in Dallas in March we felt comfortable we'd be able to go.  Unfortunately, with family commitments pulling us in several directions we are going to have to cancel our booth at the show.  We're disappointed and know many of you feel the same.   But all is not lost in the Dallas area -- Kay and her sister plan to vend for the shop at the Plano TX show Aug 12 and 13.  So mark your calendars and make your lists.  For more info about the show visit https://www.qgplano.org/quilt-show/plano-quilt-show/ Our shipment of Quiltmania magazines arrived a couple week ago and we forgot to mention them in the newsletter.  The magazine contains patterns for 7 projects, including the first installment of the mystery quilt by Irene Blanck of Focus on Quilts.  $14.99   The next project has to be one of our favorites.  Debby chose 42 embroidery designs from Kathy Schmitz' book "Tiny Treasures" and created an adorable wall hanging.  Your $39.95 kit includes the book, fabrics for the top and binding.  You will need to purchase 1" hexis.  We have both the traditional paper hexis available for $4.25 or the Hugs and Kisses fusible hexis for $8.50.  Debby highly recommends the fusibile hexis for this project.    The book contains 72 miniature embroidery designs.  Each design is only 1 1/2" wide so they're the perfect size for 1" hexies.  The book also contains a pattern for a 16" x 20" framed piece (using 65 of the designs), a full color thread guide and a stitch guide. 1" iron on templates - $8.50 for 100 Non-fusible traditional paper pieces - $4.25 for 100 If you'd prefer to use your own supplies, the book is available for $17. Sometimes in these times when hustle and bustle seem to be the key words, we need a reminder to stop and smell the roses.  The "He Restores" wall hanging reminds us to take a deep breath and slow down.  Your $24.95 kit includes the pattern, fabrics for the top, binding, wool for applique, backing fabric and small flower buttons.  Quilt finishes 14" x 19 1/4"  This week for our "when it's gone, it's gone" section we are featuring the last of our P. S. Don't Forget kits.  Your $26.95 kit includes the pattern, fabrics for the top, borders, binding and backing fabric.  Finishes 16" x 20".  If you'd prefer to use your own supplies, the pattern is available for $10.  If you'd like a ball of Valdani perle cotton size 12 for the embroidery, please let us know when you place your order. Please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com to place your order. Our newest newsletter section will feature one or two of our samples for sale.  The sample area is bursting at the seams.  If you'd like to claim one of our samples, please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com. Weedz the Cat was designed by Robin Vizonne of Briar Roots Designs.  Robin no longer designs so this is a one-of-a-kind out of print piece.  Darlene used wool for the applique and a mixture of Diamond Textile homespuns and printed cottons for the background.  The sprigs of flowering weeds included in the pocket is also included.  It finishes 20 1/2" x 20 1/2".  Price is $50 plus shipping.   Doggie Feet finishes 12" x 16 1/2".  The center is hand embroidered on Sandcastle fabric.  Price is $45 plus shipping.

Hope to see you soon. Debby and Darlene

New Kim Diehl book available for pre-order

 

What a difference a week makes.  Last week at this time we were watching snow fall; this week it's almost balmy enough to wear short sleeves.  We know better than to pack up all our warm clothes but sure are enjoying the sunshine.   This week we want to share a fun little stitching project from The Birdhouse, an Australian designer.  Your $19.95 "My Heart Sings" kit includes the pattern and the preprinted fabric panel.  This would be a darling addition to your (or a friends) sewing studio.  It finishes 4 1/2" x 11".   We finished ours as a small wall hanging.  If you'd like to do the same, please let us know the color of binding you'd prefer.  We'll include 1/4 yard of fabric which will be plenty for the backing and binding for an additional $2.74.  Debby stitched the sample using Valdani perle cotton size 12.  If you'd like a thread kit, please let us know when you place your order.   This is what the preprinted fabric panel looks like.   We are taking pre-orders from Kim Diehl's new book, Simple Whatnots III.  The book contains 18 projects including traditionally pieced blocks, invisible machine applique and wool applique projects.  The book also includes helpful Extra Snippet tips, tried-and-true decorating ideas, plus the many perks of pint-size projects. 129 pages.   $28.99 We expect delivery by May 15.   We are also able to get copies of Simple What Nots II ($28.99) and Simple What Nots ($29.99).  Let us know if we can order copies of one (or both) books to complete your library.   This week for our "when it's gone, it's gone" section we are featuring the last of our Bee Proud kits.  Your $16.95 kit includes the pattern, fabrics for the top, wool for applique, binding and backing fabric. Please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com to place your order.

Hope to see you soon. Debby and Darlene

Kay's newest quilt - The Simple Life

 

Block of the month and mail order update -- due to inclement weather, we won't be processing your block of the month or mail orders until at least Sat, Feb 5.  We are sorry for the inconvenience, but we don't want to risk being at the shop during potential sleet, ice or snow.   As always, please give us a call during potentially inclement weather to be sure we are open.  We try to keep our social media outlets updated with closures but sometimes forget.   We are very excited to share Kay's newest quilt, The Simple Life.  It is featured in the Spring and Summer issues of Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine.  The quilt features fabrics from Diamond Textiles and wool applique.  Kits include fabrics, wool and binding to complete the quilt.  The pattern is not included in the kit.  It finishes 56" x 66". Kits are $149.95.  We are taking pre-orders.  A couple of the background fabrics are on backorder with an expected ship date mid-March.  Of course, we are used to delays so may have to slip the date.   Please place your order by visiting our website https://www.sewgracefulquilting.com/ or e-mailing info@sewgracefulquilting.com We are also taking pre-orders for the Spring issue of Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine.  $9.99 With a new year many quilters and stitchers get the urge to start a new project.  We thought it would be fun to share some of our favorite reference tools.  The first, Know your Needles, is full of everything you need to know about hand and machine sewing needles.  You'll learn the characteristics of each needle and which tasks they are designed to perform whether it is applique, quilting or repair work. Hand or machine work. Discover how to determine which size needle is right for the job, how needles are sized and when to use them. The booklet is 4" x 6" so will fit in most stitching bags.  56 pages.  $8.50 "Hand Embroidery Stitches at a Glance" by Janice Vaine is also 4" x 6" so will fit nicely alongside your needle reference guide.  The booklet features complete step-by-step how to for 30 favorite embroidery stitches such as backstitch, blanket/buttonhole stitch, chain stitch, feather stitch, fly stitch, French knot, running stitch, stem stitch and much more. Also, includes dozens of embroidery stitch options to inspire creativity along with tips and techniques. Needle and thread charts for handy reference. Presented in a clear, concise format. 64 pages  - $8.50 We are currently out of stock of another great stitching reference guide, Embroidery Stitching.  The booklet contains over thirty essential embroidery stitches. Christen discusses her view of the best stabilizers and thread for embroidery and then shares tricks for embellishing. Let us know if we can order a copy of this booklet by e-mailing info@sewgracefulquilting.com. 4" x 5.95" - 64 pages - $7.95 The final two references we want to share are both the same size and are laminated.  The Embroidery Pocket Guide has been around for a while but is still one of the handiest reference guides for embroiders.  It is approximately 8.5 inches tall by 4.625 inches wide and folds out accordion-style with information on supplies and stitching tips, plus illustrated stitch guides. Featured stitches are backstitches, blanket stitches, chain stitches, couching stitches, cross stitches, featherstitches, filling stitches, running stitches, satin stitches, and weaving stitches. A ruler is printed along the edge for convenience.  $4.95 The Crazy Quilt Stitches pocket guide offers a variety of basic embroidery stitches, variations, and combinations to be used as seam coverings for crazy quilts or simply to add interest to a pieced or appliqued quilt. The guide also includes spider and web motifs, common Victorian symbols of good luck. $4.95 This week for our "when it's gone, it's gone" section we are our last kit of Mrs Hen Needlecase by Lynette Anderson.  Your $37.95 kit includes the pattern, fabrics for the sewing case and scissors case, wool for applique, and Busy Bee buttons.  Wool may vary slightly from photo.  The first photo shows our sample and the second photo shows the fabrics contained in the kit.   Please e-mail info@sewgracefulquilting.com to place your order.

Hope to see you soon. Debby and Darlene