Artists or art that turns me on and feeds my muse! Like it or dislike it, what about this art inspires your own art or creativity?Purple Barn, by Kentucky artist, Marianna McDonald.http://artistdirectory.ky.gov/Pages/KentuckyCraftedArtistPage.aspx?ArtistID=301
A woman’s husband dies. He had $20,000 to his name.
After everything is done at the funeral home and cemetery, she tells her closest friend that there is no money left.
The friend says, “How can that be? You told me he had $20,000 a few days before he died. How could you be broke?”
The widow says, “Well, the funeral cost me $6,500. And of course, I had to make the obligatory donation for the church and the organist and all. That was $500 and I spent another $500 for the wake, food and drinks, you know. The rest went for the memorial stone.”
The friend says, “$12,500 for the memorial stone? My God, how big was it?”
The widow says, “Three carats.”
Look around you. Design is everywhere! How can you incorporate the beauty that surrounds you into your art or craft? http://www.newarkmuseum.org/royals-regalia-inside-palaces-nigeria’s-monarchs
I love primitive fiber art and this DIY bookhou woven trivet fits the bill perfectly. Here’s how you can make your own trivet or sew several together to make a table runner. Start here:
http://www.poppytalk.com/2011/01/diy-with-bookhou-woven-trivet.html
I love all the the cases for Kindles and iPads but they are so darned expensive and, frankly, the quality pretty much sucks unless you’re spending about $45 – $50 bucks. Make your own. If you love the feel of a moleskine notebook, you’ll love this (I’d keep the apple off the cover — unless, of course, Apple is paying me to advertise). Start here:
http://www.themoderndaypirates.com/pirates/2010/06/how-to-make-a-moleskine-ipad-case/
ON YOUR NEWSSTANDS NOW!!!
Pages and pages of my Slow Stitching Movement article and photographs from April’s Slow Stitching Movement Getaway! (HINT: There are a few more Getaways planned this year! More on that in today’s blog.)
BUY THIS ISSUE BY CLICKING HERE
You might have noticed that I’ve been gone for the past couple of weeks. Yes, I was on the road — Charlotte and Franklin, North Carolina, Nashville and Paducah, Kentucky!
On August 9, while in Charlotte, the most exciting thing EVER happened to me.
I presented my Stars & Stripes Quilt of Valor to Colonel J Quincy Collins Jr in Charlotte North Carolina at the Myers Park Presbyterian Church. I wore a POW bracelet with his name inscribed on it when I was 13 years old and for the years he was a POW in Vietnam. For 43 years I thought of him and on that daywe met.
This was both my speech and label on the back of the quilt:
I bought my POW/MIA bracelet in 1971 when I was a 13-years old freshman at Bishop Canevin High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The selection of bracelets was luck of the draw, and I drew the bracelet bearing the inscription:
CAPT. J. QUINCY COLLINS JR.
9-2-65
Captain Collins and I were then joined at the wrist with a vow that I wouldn’t remove the bracelet until he returned home or, tragically, his remains were found and identified. From that movement on, where I went, he went.
Over the next several years of our time together, the silver plating wore off the bracelet, pieces of it digging into my skin, its bare copper core leaving an ever-present black and green stain around my wrist. I didn’t care. If J. Quincy Collins Jr. was in a Vietnamese prisoner camp, then these trite inconveniences meant little.
When the war ended and the prisoners of war began to return to the United States, I would hurry home from school to check the newspaper and scan the list of names for my soldier, among the imprisoned soldiers who found their way back to home soil. Weeks later, I found it, “J. Quincy Collins, Jr.; North Carolina”, right there in Pittsburgh Press black and white. Captain Collins was finally home. I removed our bracelet.
From Pittsburgh, to San Francisco, Miami, Chicago, Manhattan, and New Jersey, for over 43 years, I have carried our POW bracelet with me, and wondered about that guy, that J. Quincy Collins, Jr.
Two years ago, I was invited to be a part of an Iowa Public Television special to celebrate the national Quilts of Valor Foundation, whose mission is to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing quilts.
When I designed and made this quilt for the special, I couldn’t help but think of Quincy Collins throughout the process and even brought our bracelet to the show’s taping. The truth is, although he had no idea who I was, I thought and wondered about him often over the decades.
Today, August 9, 2015, and with gratitude for the assistance of Myers Park Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, I would like to present this Quilt of Valor to my hero, our hero.
Colonel J. Quincy Collins, Jr.
This Quilt of Valor is presented to you in Gratitude for
Your Service and Sacrifice.
**************
The most extraordinary thing happened when I presented the POW bracelet I wore all those years ago. Col. Collins gave it back to me as a symbol of what has, and what will always, bind us together.
This is me (bottom, 2nd from the left) during the time I wore Col Collins’ bracelet.
You canpurchasethe Stars & Stripes pattern by CLICKING HERE
INGREDIENTS:
- pickling cucumbers
- onions
- canning and pickling salt
- ice
- white vinegar
- sugar
- mustard seeds
- round turmeric
- celery seeds
- ground ginger
- whole black peppercorns
FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE:http://www.midwestliving.com/recipe/bread-butter-pickles/
Old and up-cycled buttons are the perfect foil for the simple thumb tack. So easy to make, the only creative challenge is to see how far you can push the limits of buttonhood! Here’s how you make a set:
http://elizabethjoandesigns.com/2015/03/diy-thumbtacks-with-buttons/
You can make this table runner in 2 hours (or less, if you’ve ever taken a class with me). Here’s the tutorial on how to curve your way to happiness:
http://www.modabakeshop.com/2012/12/120-minute-gift-drunkards-path-table-runner.html
Ingredients:
- lemon
- basil leaves
- raspberries
- superfine sugar
- limoncello
- Citron vodka
- champagne, to top off
- ice
Forthe Full Recipe Click Here: http://www.tasty-trials.com/2011/08/one-year-old-today.html?m=1
IF YOU HAVEN’T SUBSCRIBED TO THIS BLOG YET:
Several months ago, Facebook, without warning, had implemented a new business model. As a result, the vast majority of “LIKErs” who have been faithful readers of this Fan Page have been blocked from receiving my posts, time and time again, from getting all or a few of the postings onto their timeline feed.
The reason is, Facebook would like pages like,Mark Lipinski’s Fan Page, to pay money every day, and on every post, in order to advertise and lure readers like you, onto the Fan Page.
With out “BOOSTING” a post, only about 5% of people who clicked LIKE on MARK LIPINSKI’S FAN PAGE are actually seeing anything I post — and it could be random – sometimes you get a post, and sometimes not. Basically, it sucks for all of us. I am finding that we are all better served if I posted my tips, ideas, links, and jokes, etc. to thisblog. You can subscribe to thisblog (only if you want to) toget an email each time I post a grouping of ideas, links, etc. andnever miss a chance at inspiration.
Not only is this tutorial good for using old books to hide modems and wires, but who would look for Grandma’s ruby bracelet in a Tina Fey book?
Go rogue and carve your hiding place into a old Sarah Palin book and no friendor foe willeven go near it! Here’s how to stash your stuff:
http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/06/diy-hideaway-book-tutorial.html
This is the perfect bag to lug your yarn, appliqué, or other projects with you when you’re on the run. Me? Mine will be full of fried pork chops and cheap Walmart cherry lunch pies. Hey, to each their own. Here’s the pattern and tutorial for making this tote bag:
http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/09/hushabye-tote-bag-and-coin-quilt.html
Ah, go ahead. Embroider a set of cloth napkins, each in a different kitty color. Super easy and totally conversation worthy. Here’s how:
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
- cornmeal
- shortening
- salt
- boiling water
- milk
- eggs
- baking powder
FOR THE FULL RECIPES, CLICK THE LINKS:http://www.food.com/recipe/virginia-spoon-bread-31424
Osterizer Mini Blend Glass Jars
Here’s the story: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/pale-red-haired-scotland-girl-stopped-boarding-flight-article-1.2289082
Get ready for Labor Day, Autumn, Halloween, Christmas and more buy adding interesting borders onto panels, or simply learn the technique to make beautiful and themed borders for your own quilt designs or to change up a pattern.
Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski – Part 1
In Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, Pt. 1, Mark Lipinski – fabric designer and quilter extraordinaire – shows you how to construct and assemble borders for two very fun quilts just in time for the holidays! Follow along as Mark demonstrates how to create festive borders for your Halloween and Thanksgiving quilts. Adopt some great seasonal ideas while getting into the quilting holiday spirit!
You’ll love this quilting video if you:
- Enjoy creating holiday-themed quilts
- Want to express your own creativity in making quilts
- Enjoy quilting for yourself and others
In Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, you’ll learn how to:
- Strip cut pieces and sew them together for a Halloween quilt
- Use a candy corn template on pieced fabric
- Use various templates to create a fun block for a fun border on a Halloween quilt
- Create a 4 patch corner block for a Halloween-themed border
- Embellish your quilts if desired
- Strip piece a leaf border for a Thanksgiving-themed quilt
- Assemble 9 patch leaf blocks for a border on a Thanksgiving quilt
CLICK HERE FOR:
Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski – Part 1
Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, Part 2
In Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, Pt. 2, Mark Lipinski – fabric designer and quilter extraordinaire – shows you how to construct and assemble a border for a very fun quilt just in time for the holidays! Follow along as Mark demonstrates how to create festive borders for your Christmas quilts. Adopt some great seasonal ideas while getting into the quilting holiday spirit!
You’ll Love This Quilting Video If You:
- Want to add a holiday theme to your quilt borders
- Want to add interest to your borders
- Want to design your own holiday border blocks
InHoliday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, Pt. 2, You’ll Learn How To:
- Create a random scrappy block for a Christmas quilt border
- Use a Christmas tree template to cut your pieced fabric for a cohesive border
- Sew your strips at various angles for a different or wonky look
- Add visual interest to a Christmas tree border with alternating block placement
- Create a 9-patch Christmas corner block for your quilt border
- Add an interesting binding to a Christmas quilt that emulates piping
CLICK HERE FOR:
Holiday Borders Using Strips with Mark Lipinski, Part 2
Simple Bindings for Sensational Quilts with Mark Lipinski
In “Simple Bindings for Sensational Quilts with Mark Lipinski,” Mark Lipinski – fabric designer and quilter extraordinaire – shows you how to approach simple bindings with your quilts. Not only will you learn tips on how to add bindings, you’ll also learn how to cut your fabric properly, utilize either hand-stitched or machine-stitched binding and embellish your binding. Mark, and special guest Marie Bostwick – New York Times bestselling author of many quilting novels – pair up to give you an educational and entertaining lesson on all things binding! What a treat!
You’ll Love This Quilting Video If You:
- You’ve made a quilt but are unsure how to bind it
- Want to add some special adornments to your quilt
InSimple Bindings for Sensational Quilts with Mark Lipinski, You’ll Learn How To:
- Make a perfect seam when sewing binding strips together
- Pin your binding to your quilt top, including mitered corners
- Hand stitch binding using a blind or whip stitch
- Machine stitch binding
- Make and add prairie points to the inside of quilt binding
- Attach embellishment to binding such as rickrack, pompoms, and lace ruffles
CLICK HERE FOR:
Simple Bindings for Sensational Quilts with Mark Lipinski
String some beads and create aDIY blinged-out beaded phone case. You will be the envy of every crafter you encounter. Hereareyour DIY directions:
http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2015/07/make-your-own-beaded-phone-case.html
Ingredients:
- unsalted butter
- sugar
- egg
- vanilla
- lemon
- all-purpose flour
- self-rising cornmeal mix
- kosher salt
FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE:http://www.cheaterchef.com/nashville-cornmeal-cookies/#sthash.s1vLSzqm.dpuf
Bottega Veneta
Multicolor Intrecciato Leather & Snakeskin Top-Handle Bag, $3550.00
I am constantly bargaining with my sewing machine’s foot pedal, trying to grab it with my toes (a la an orangutan), or keep pulling on the cord. Make a non-slip sewing machine foot pedal pad, starting here:
http://so-sew-easy.com/non-slip-sewing-machine-foot-pedal-pad/#_a5y_p=3748343
ValentinoLace Collage Coat, $11500.00
This dazzling topper presents a colorful patchwork of all kinds of lace and eyelet, in a straight, simple silhouette with embroidered stars on the back.
- Notched collar and lapels
- Long sleeves
- Single hidden snap close
- Lined
- About 41″ from shoulder to hem
- Virgin wool/polyester/nylon
- Made in Italy
I love an organized bathroom or hall medicine cabinet. Take a look at this organizational website:
http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2011/01/day-15-getting-organized-challenge.html
You don’t have to be a kid to like Tic Tac Toe. Whip up a fabric game board for you kids, grandkids, a sick friend, or someone who needs a smile. Easy and impactful as an “I’m thinking of you” surprise. Find the pattern here:
http://www.allfreesewing.com/Sewn-Toys/Tic-Tac-Toe-Yo-Yo-Game-Board
Dina Mackney Turquoise & Apatite Beaded Bracelet, $450.00
I really like the design, but mighttrade out the fabrics for a more colorful autumn patchwork. Take a stab at it! Here’s the pattern:
http://www.clothworks.com/media/productmedia/2045/forestfloorquilt.pdf
VALENTINO,CAMU GARDEN JACQUARD BOOTIES,$1,495
Keep all of your threads in one place in a DIY spool holder that’s easy enough to carry from sewing spot to sewing spot. Here’s how you make one:
With school supplies for sale EVERYWHERE and me, being a whor* for school supplies, you might want to explore creating a quilted sketchbook, notebook, or morning pages writing cover. Here’s how you make it. (try using other blocks, too. What the heck?)
Autumn harvest of the cabbage
It’s just about time to begin planting your cool weather crops. Here’s a site that tells you everything you need to know about everything you might want to plant — NOW! Take a look:
http://premeditatedleftovers.com/gardening/fall-vegetable-gardening-beginners/
Made form a single continuous piece of steel wire, this fruit bowl is both functional and sculptural. Itsopen structure allows produce to breathe. Designby Block. Wire Fruit Bowl, $55.00
I love these little crocheted pom poms onto your afghans! Isn’t this cool? Try it out:
Well, it’s worth a try, isn’t it?
http://starneslifefamilylove.blogspot.com/2012/06/homemade-febreze.html
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Nonstick baking spray
butter
granulated sugar
vanilla extract
eggs
all-purpose flour
baking soda
ground cinnamon
salt
buttermilk
ripe bananas
crushed pineapple
Optional garnishes: sweetened flaked coconut, chopped macadamia nuts
Frosting:
butter
cream cheese
confectioners’ sugar
lemon juice
vanilla extract
FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/hummingbird-cake-recipe.html#lightbox-recipe-image?oc=linkback
Sept. 19th & 21
Woodside Quilting
5360 NE 14th St
Des Moines Iowa 50313
Woodsidequilting .com
(515) 777-3500
Sept. 19 7:30 PM Program – Bull in a China Shop trunk show/lecture
See website for details – purchase tickets at Woodside Quilting.
Sept 19 Class – Throw me a curve Mystery Quilt – 9-3
Sept. 21 Class – Stars and Stripes – 9-3
****************
East Polk County Quilt Guild
Lutheran Church of the Cross
1701 8th St SW
Altoona, IA
Sunday Sept. 20 Class – Ribbons – 12:30 – 6:30
Monday – Sept. 21 – 7 pm –Lecture– Ways to find Inspiration
Sept. 25th & 21
CALICO GALS
3906 New Court Avenue
Syracuse, New York 13206
www.calicogals.com
(315)445-0617
Sept. 25Lectures– The Stitching Movement2 PM & 6PM
September 26 – Throw Me Mystery Quilt 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
And speaking of pom poms, just look how this pom pom fringe lights up these ordinary dish towels. Look out, Pickle Road, you’re getting some new pom pom towels in the kitchen. I love these! (oh, and what a great gift!). Here’s how you make a set:
http://www.bowerpowerblog.com/2011/12/give-santa-some-pom-poms/
A new Slow Stitching Movement Getaway is now taking reservations!
After the success of last spring’sSlow Stitching Movement Getaway in Lambertville, NJ, we have added another Slow Stitching Movement Getaway this November — in Minneapolis!
Fiber Artists, Cyndi Souder andRuth Chandler will join me for 4 focused, intentional, healingand illuminating days with you stitching.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Ruth
Cyndi
The Slow Stitching MovementGetaway: Autumn2015
Quilting Arts TV Series 1600
I have two segments on this DVD:
1602: Take it Slow –Watch as Lynn Krawczyk explores artful wool felt color studies with hand stitching. Then, let Mark Lipinski explain the philosophy of the Slow Stitching Movement.
1607: Make it Special –Mark Lipinski shares a variety of legacy quilts, along with his own, to show how to leave a bit of yourself behind. See how Tammie Bowser makes fusible appliqué “Jazz Quilts” from photos. Then, learn how to take your quilts beyond the ordinary when Susan Brubaker Knapp offers tips for machine stitching tiny motifs.
PLUS MANY, MANY MORE WONDERFUL, INFORMATIVE SEGMENTS
CLICK HERE TO ORDER YOUR DVD
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