Birds

I saw these felt bird ornaments on the Purl Bee blog in late 2010, and kept them in mind over the past year via Pinterest. (of course!) I decided to make a bunch for friends and their kiddos this past Christmas. Since I already had most of the materials, I opted to 'wing it' (heh heh), instead of buying Purl's kit. It wasn't hard to figure out. For a little extra special-ness, I personalized the ornaments by stitching each recipient's name on the side of his/her bird.

I love following through with a project I've pinned on Pinterest. More projects to come...

zig zag

I've been a big fan of Denyse Schmidt, quilter extraordinaire, since she first appeared in Martha Stewart magazine many years ago. Taking her Improvisational Patchwork Workshop at her amazing Bridgeport, CT studio back in 2006 remains one of the highlights of my creative endeavors.

I'd been wanting to make the Big Zig quilt from the Denyse Schmidt Quilts book for some time, and finally did recently as a wedding shower gift. Well, my version of the Big Zig anyway. Now I want to make more! Endless color combos and sizes come to mind...hmmm...maybe a bedspread for me! And a throw pillow.

I decided to keep zigging and zagging for my version of the Big Zig quilt.

Next time though, I will use a lighter batting (this one was waaaay too heavy), and do my best to get my walking foot working properly. I have a feeling that would make a big difference with my so-so quilting job. Practice, practice...