JUMP START YOUR QUILTING EXPEREINCE

Have you contemplated the idea of making a quilt? Many have toyed with the idea. “To everything there is a season.” It’s your season! Creating quality quilts requires buying quality tools. Basic tools needed are as follows: sewing machine, iron, spray starch or sizing, rotary cutter, cutting board, ruler, scissors, seam ripper, long glass-headed pins, pin cushion, cotton sewing thread, fabric marker, and 100% cotton fabric. Since you’ve made the decision to become a quilt maker these basic tools are essential to your success. Although there are many tools available start with your basic tools then add others as needed. After collecting your basic tools try the pattern below or sign up for a class/private lesson.

Classic Nine Patch

• Pre-washing 100 % cotton fabric is optional but not necessary
• Press Fabric using spray starch or sizing
• Cut fabric into 2 1/2" strips (two colors required)
• Sew 2 1/2" strips together alternating colors.
• Make 2 strip sets each should have the following color sequence ABA and BAB.
• Cut strips into 2 1/2" segments. Sew one ABA to a BAB then add another ABA.
• Continue to sew segments alternating colors.
• Add a border around each block, sew blocks together. Trim blocks
  
• Option: Measure trimmed blocks and cut squares that size. When sewing blocks together alternate sewing one nine patch then square, continue. The next row would start with a square then nine patch. When putting rows together alternate rows. The object is to have alternating blocks throughout project.
  
• Number of blocks needed will depend on size desired.
• Add an outside border, batting, and backing then quilt as desired.

WEBSITE

Our NEW website is up. View pictures of quilts and things and even purchase items if you wish. Support local & handmade. Great gifts with meaning that will be treasured and last a lifetime. Stop by and check out: www.heavenlyfabriccreations.com

Sweet Dreams Quilt

Staying out of the heat and in the sewing studio. We just finished a Sweet Dreams Quilt made with 100 % cotton fabric in yellow, pink, and greens. WOW, was the expression of the recipient. This quilt was tedious to make and filled with lots of cutting and recutting. The ending result was a beautiful quilt that was machined quilted using the Juki 98TL and Gracie Frame.

Now for the next project! Time to quilt my red, white, and black Buzz Saw Quilt. This is a beautiful pattern that is great for a masculine gift. The blocks fit together mimicking the blades of a saw. A twirl design will be quilted in the blades to give the quilt dimension and motion.

Endless Bags

I am making Endless Bags at my new sewing studio. Getting ready for the upcoming Spring Festival on Saturday, May 8th.

Busy-As-A-Bee

I have been busy as a bee creating handbags (vera bradley look-a-likes), table runners, lap quilts and much more. Soon completed items will be for sale in my Etsy Shop. Bold spring creations will be a great addition to your accessory collection and home decor.

If you don't see what your looking for make a request e-mail heavenlydsgns@aol.com

Breif History of Quilting

Quilting refers to sewing two or more layers of fabric together. Typical quilting is done with three layers, which is compiled of a top layer, batting or insulation, and a backing. The layers are sandwiched together and either hand or machine quilted. Straight or running stitches are used. Thread is used to make these sometimes decorative stitches. After quilting a binding is added to finish the quilt and hold all layers together.

The technique of quilting dates back to ancient Egypt or older. Quilts and quilted clothing were common trade goods in the wealthy circles. Many quilts have a biblical story associated with them. As a result of the bible being "the principle literary presence in most American homes" (Sandra Fox), many quilt blocks have biblical names. Faith in God and attending social events such as church and revival meetings played a vital role in the American Culture. The Christian faith sustained many people during their hardships and trials.

For almost two centuries or more women have met at churches for prayer and to do God's work. These gatherings often consisted of studying the scripture and quilting. Creating biblical blocks afforded the women an opportunity to study the word of God while making quilts for needy individuals and church fundraisers.

There are numerous biblical blocks. To name a few: Star of Bethlehem, Rose of Sharon, Jacob's Ladder, Job's Tears, Tree of Life, Balm of Gilead, Caesar's Crown, King Solomon's Temple, Walls of Jericho, Garden of Eden, David & Goliath, Children of Israel, and many more. The blocks were made using different techniques such as piecing, appliques, and embroidery. The bible was truly an inspiration to many quilters of the past and remains to inspire quilt makers today. Let Heavenly Fabric Creations design and personalize a biblical quilt for you today. Call 443-219-2431 or e-mail heavenlydsgns@aol.com for more information.