Tuesday 7 April 2009
Not eggs-actly a stash buster
I'm afraid that I came across 80cms of the rose print fabric above....and I just had to have it, as my green egg really didn't zing with any print I had in the stash at all. Well, nearly didn't - because I'd already decided to go with a black background (from my stash)...but fell in love with this print....Oh well.... I am going to be using it all up right away, so it's not like I'm 'adding' to my stash or anything like that...AND I am supporting my local patchwork store!
Tuesday 24 March 2009
Esther's Easter Block
Easter is nearly upon us, and every year I love to come up with a new table design, and usually end up sewing a few things too. This year, I designed a block that would be suitable for several designs and the only problem now is….I don’t know which one to make!
So I’ve decided to share this original block and invite all you talented quilters out there to let your imagination run wild….what will you make with this design? A table runner? A 3D egg? A felted egg gift bag? I’m still undecided myself...what I do know is that it lends itself to appliqué, stenciling, embroidery…..it’s all open to interpretation. So why not get sewing for Easter right now?
After Easter I will post all images of created pieces on this blog as an ‘ Easter Parade’ of creativity, so don't be shy, share your talent!
JOIN IN: download my free Easter Block via Scribd.com
SHARE YOUR WORK: forward images of finished pics to my email and I will post them here after Easter, in a ‘Parade’ of talent.
The Joy of Computing!
Thursday 19 March 2009
Raiding the stash...
Wednesday 18 March 2009
Starter Pack is Launched
Saturday 14 March 2009
Fanfare is launched
I spent today clearing out my sewing studio (I've finally unpacked since my workshops at AQC)....and I feel re-energised (and organised) for lots of finishing off of waiting projects....as well as a few new ones too.
If you're taking part in Red Delicious, don't forget to join the BOM Yahoo Group and share some pics of your work - the photo section is already inspirational and frankly puts me to shame! I'm delighted that you're all making it so much your own.
Let's see how you all interpret this months block - I can't wait!
Thursday 12 March 2009
Monday 9 March 2009
More from AQC
Teaching upstairs at AQC was especially fitting this year - as the the building has been restored with traditional stencil designs...and I had a wonderful time just looking up.
A stencilled building is my dream! So I really looked forward to arriving early each morning and taking a moment during setting up the class to just soak up and appreciate the art of the stencil - wall or quilt, stencils have played a big part in the beautiful and complex history of arts and crafts.
I just had to share some pics with you.
I can see a graceful, scrolling, traditionally based quilt design coming on, inspired by the edging and bannisters....
...or from this ceiling I can see a very simple but stylish yellow flower quilt...
I'm filled up with ideas. I love that this building can be such an evocative place.
You just feel like you should be doing something creative the minute you walk in.
I will definitely look up a lot more often now - no doubt I miss many beautiful features of building as I go about my day...and it takes a building like this to just remind me once again...yes, inspiration is everywhere...
Sunday 1 March 2009
AQC is over for another year
Tuesday 24 February 2009
its nearly time for AQC
Tonight I'm preparing for my AQC workshops. I'm going in tomorrow for set up, I cant wait to catch up with everyone on the weekend.
I don't know why, because it doesnt matter how well I plan, I always end up with late nights of preperation....even when I promised myself I'd be better organised this time around...so you'll probably see me with a strong coffee in hand...
see you there! Stencils at the ready!
Saturday 21 February 2009
Workshops Next Week
I've had a very busy week, writing up some magazine patterns, testing some new designs and sourcing supplies for my workshops next week- this is a never ending issue. Sourcing the best possible supplies, always looking for new ways to make things easier for students...but I have to admit, I love teaching stencil workshop classes. Stencilling is something that can really transform your ideas about what it means to make your own quilt...it takes you on a journey where you can deisgn as much or as little as you want. Stencil blocks in a quilt can be a great feature - and entire stencil quilts where you 'stencil' your own fabric and really make it your own is somewhat addictive.
This is a stencil detail from Not Quite Shabby Chic. I've been preparing kits for my workshops next week at the AQC. For those of you coming along to one of my workshops, it's going to be a great day. I've already received some emails from students and I'm looking forward to meeting you all very soon!
Friday 20 February 2009
the Red Delicious yahoo group is launched!
So Red Delicious the Yahoo Group has been launched and is now running!
If you are taking part in Red Delicious, please join and upload your block photos for everyone to enjoy
Little did I know 4 months ago that Red Delicious would be so rewarding. Who knew that a free BOM could inspire so much creativity? Maybe it was the stash busting, maybe it was the red hues, maybe it was just enjoying a free block... whatever the reason, the feedback, photos and encouragment from everyone joining in on this mystery challenge has been inspiring to say the least.
The images of blocks that were emailed to me every month were too great to just leave in my inbox, they deserve to be posted and enjoyed. Yes, it was all too good for me to keep to myself: so please join.
For those of you who have posted me images of your blocks: please note that I will NOT be uploading photos on anyone's behalf (there's just too many!).
The Link to the Red Delicious yahoo group is below: and also on the left of this screen:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/estheraliubom/
Wednesday 18 February 2009
block 4: Peony Bloom
So that no one need miss out, I have created a second 'block 4' which is an identical file (with the images downsized - it still looks just the same).
This file is listed as Block 4 on Scribd.com and simply states 'smaller file' beneath.
Sunday 15 February 2009
Peony Bloom is launched
Saturday 14 February 2009
Thursday 12 February 2009
White Hydrangea
Wednesday 11 February 2009
a patch of Lavendar
Monday 9 February 2009
Victorian Bushfire
There is very little that I or anyone can say to describe this situation justly. I don't know anyone who hasn't been touched by this disaster. This past weekend, a close family friend evacuated her property in Gippsland and is waiting in Melbourne whilst the bushfire continues to threaten homes and lives. The feeling is surreal and frightening. Watching it on TV, it's hard to believe that it's really happening. Unfortunately, it is. It just reminds me, and I'm sure many others, that nothing is more precious than life.
This is a terrible time, however there is something that everyone can do. Please, if you are able, donate to the bushfire appeal: there is much need. There is a direct link posted at the top of the blog on the lefthand side.
Behind Every Great Quilt...
Saturday 7 February 2009
Knit One, Save One
I know! That's exactly what I was thinking! Isn't it too hot to HOLD yarn, let alone crochet with it? Yes I think it is.
Staying inside due to the heat and needing a creative outlet however, my daughter instantly turned her thoughts to winter pursuits and sat in front of her fan with her favourite hook. Why? Because every winter there's so much need for woolies all over the world...and there never seems to be enough time to get around to making them within the season...so why not start early?
Actually, my daughter has just learnt to crochet and
decided to put her baby beanie making skills to use. For those of you in America, the Knit One Save One project is a great way to get involved in something creative, progressive and important. You can follow the link here:
http://www.savethechildren.org/programs/health/child-survival/survive-to-5/knit-one-save-one.html
In Australia, the Guardian Pharmacy chain run a great seasonal promotion drive for hand knitted items to distribute to those in need, and its never too early to start.
I'm still shocked and saddened when I hear that for most of the world's people, the basic necessities are a struggle.
This beanie from start to finish took 45mins to crochet. I haven't yet met a quilter who isnt talented in knitting or crochet, so if you have a spare 3/4 of an hour, why not brush up on your knitting skills, use up those yarn left overs or just do your bit for those in need? It's doesnt take much and if we all just did one, there'd be enough to go around.
Why not Knit One to Save One today?
Friday 6 February 2009
Thinking of a new technique?
Thursday 5 February 2009
My Heat Struck Garden
Being in a heat wave and draught means that my garden isnt looking as lush as I wish it was. I've had to plant draught hardy blooms, which aren't as lovely to look at, but at least they stop the garden looking totally barren.
Due to water restrictions, the plants have pretty much been left to their own devices. I've newspapered and mulched, some have thrived, some have died. The boring plants seem to survive. I have a creeping rose bush which yearly gives out masses of small scented blooms and although it's sunburnt and struggling, it always comes back good. I'm always suprised at the fight for life that roses manage, it's a bit of hope in a dry garden where you find yourself yearing for beauty.
My fern leaves are crisp brown wafts that break off in the wind and what I think was once a rather beautiful shrub ( I can't remember, its been so long) is now just dried twigs.
I yearn to sit in a garden brimming over with the flowers I have planted in the past: the many varied roses, from carpet hedges to elegant long stemmed blooms that loved a severe dead heading and pruning any time of year, the canterbury bells, the bavardia, the geranium, the poppy, the white and pink hydrangia, the 5 lots of lavendar from white to violet...I can see and smell them already....
I admire the local gardeners who have altered their former green European gardens and worked tirelessly to re-create Australian gardens. Personally, I love succulents and just a few cactuses here and there, but I'm not inspired enough to change my whole idea about what a garden is.
Realistically, the only plants that can truly survive in this climate are natives, and whilst people some love them, they all look like boring dried out tuffs of grass to me, and I'm not afraid to say so.
Frankly, it's too hot to go outside, or sit outside. I think twice about walking from my front door to the car when I want to go somewhere. Sometimes it's just not worth the heat stress. I think the only lush garden I'll be enjoying this summer is a stencilled one.
Phew
Yes it appears that I'm back online! Hopefully that will be the last meltdown I have to endure... I'm a week behind thanks to the heatwave.
Still, I'm one on the lucky ones - I didn't have to suffer any blackouts during the heat. I really detest suffocating heat - it's just paralysing. I didn't accomplish anything. So today I'm making up for lost time.
These are some fishy pictures that my daughter took to help inspire my quilting. I'm always find bodies of water alluring: from the sea, to rock pools, ponds, deep puddles, fountains to fish in a bowl...I just love observing the life going on beyond the rippling surface.
Its all to do with layers, thats what makes the ordinary seem so extraordinary in my eyes: I love the yellow unfurled inner petals of a blooming red flower....or moving through layers of dense green tree foliage to uncover an unexpected birds nest spun from abandoned bright threads amongst the twigs....or stencilling - stencils are improved by colour layers, as is quilting itself. Ahhh, layers. I feel ready to quilt again...
Wednesday 4 February 2009
Heat Wave Aftermath
If you have sent me an email - I have not received it. Would you please re-send it again next week (to be on the safe side)
Thanks for your understanding during this frustrating time
Esther
Friday 30 January 2009
too hot to blog
Wednesday 28 January 2009
Heat Wave
There's a heatwave expected all this week (I'm already heat exhausted) and, in typical fashion, I have 2 quilts to quilt lined up. What was I thinking? I've decided to stick with my quilting schedule - this year I want no ensure no more UFO's are created (actually I wanted to dust off and finish all the ones I already have) and this means working to a plan. As much as I resist plans, I've reached the point of having to get seriously scheduled.
This is hard for me - with quilting I prefer to work as the mood takes me. However this has also meant that I actually do have a lot of UFO's, a lot to quilts ready to quilt, a lot of new design stencils and a lot of new quilts waiting in the wings. I decided that this year was going to be stash busting, and it's also going to be working through some 'must make' quilts.
This week I also started preparing for some workshops coming in the next few weeks. I really enjoy teaching stencilling - it's a great workshop and I'm always impressed with what fellow quilters and curious students manage to create after just a day of learning the technique.
Of course, workshop planning wouldn't be complete without some supply issues. I'm currently trying to source the right shade of paints - it appears that everyone shops for art supplies at the same time!
Sometimes the organising takes more time than the workshop itself.
Well, I know I shouldnt complain, at least I'm sweating over something I enjoy doing....
Tuesday 27 January 2009
Feeling Creative?
One thing I really love about quilting is it's scope.... to challenge, delight, inspire and encourage - that's how I got into stencilling, and I haven't looked back.
If you'd like to try something new and you're in Melbourne next month, why not come along to the AQC - Australian Quilters Convention? I'm a tutor this year and my workshop will be exploring stencilling.
This wall hanging, Not Quite Shabby Chic is one of my favourite workshop quilts to teach - its so adaptable, just a switch of colours can change the whole feeling, the stencil roses bouquet in the centre is a really rewarding (and straight forward) piece to stencil.
If you have'nt tried stencilling yet, you're missing out!
Sunday 18 January 2009
CORRECTION!
Block 3, Love Apple, has 2 measuring mistakes.
A Block 3 correction sheet has now been added to scribd.com with the error positions highlighted and the correct data entered. Please download this correction sheet when downloading block 3.
Apolagies to all of you who may have been confused by this error, and thank you to Eugenie for pointing it out.
PLEASE NOTE:
When a block's finished size is, say, 16" by 9" and in the cutting directions I instruct that the background be cut to 16.5" by 9.5" - this is NOT an error. I always allow a half inch for seam allowance. There have been a few queries about this half inch, and this is the reason.
Finished size means no seam allowances, so when the block size is indicated at the beginning of the pattern, it is listing the finished size. When making the block, the seam allowance size is referred to.
Saturday 17 January 2009
What's enough red anyway?
Red and White is so stunningly simple...yet evocative.
Personally, I can't get enough red in my designing at the moment, and whilst Red Delicious has definitely started taking care of my fabric stash, I knew I wouldn't feel finished until I extended the red theme with some stencilling.
Stencilling is a beautiful, traditional and almost forgotten quilting technique - I utilise it alot as it allows you to make designs from your own sketches in an original, challenging and enjoyable way.
Here I designed a Red stencil cushion, I know, I know...I even thought about moving into Blue & White (also stunning) but my heart currently belongs to Red!
Country Craft and Decorating Magazine is now available, so why not add to your red project list?
Wednesday 14 January 2009
Monday 12 January 2009
Saturday 10 January 2009
Farewell Grace
'We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned
so as to have the life that is waiting for us'
Thursday 8 January 2009
It's still a New Year
It may be economy, shelf space or guilt, but whatever the motivation for stash busting, remember - hoarding fabric does not help quilts (even future quilts!) get made - I can vouch for this.
Just this week I caught my daughters wondering out loud about what they would do with all my fabric if I suddenly wasn't around...which motivated me to stop looking through my latest quilt catalogue ( I was just looking)
Now really, it's not that hard...and every month on the 15th its going to be just that little bit easier - with a new Red Delicious block and a new reason to use up whats already sitting on the shelf waiting to be used....
Thursday 1 January 2009
Welcome 2009
But just recently, I went looking for some suitably inspiring fabric and I opened a stash box (I have them arranged in colours, prints, themes, etc) and the box was so jam packed (and looked so pretty) that I had second thoughts about rummaging through it. I had arranged it so well that it could have stayed like that undisturbed until one day I went out and bought exactly the same print and shade...forgetting I already had it.
Now this surely isnt impossible, because as I kept looking through my boxes I found fabric I didnt recognise, had forgotten was there and never even knew I had (a fat quarter wheel of chrismas prints comes to mind - perfect for a new December tablecloth that I need, and that I wasn't even thinking of, for instance)...
So, when is enough fabric, finally enough? On the one hand, nothing in my stash is inspiring me right now, its good for 'other ideas' but none that I'm currently entertaining. I have lots of plans for quilts I want to make and I don't want to be constrained my existing stash. Also, when you have an idea and you need a certain tone...its hard to match your colour theme from an existing batch, you usually have to go out and buy some more. Or, you buy a backing fabric and then by sheer coincidence you find a great 'zinger' for a quilt you're working on...and it has several prints in the range that you need to compliment the look. Then of course, there's always lovely new fabric coming out which is fresh and exciting and I have to stop myself buying it all up and just storing it for when I 'get around to it'....
On the other hand, my shelves are groaning. They are so tightly stuffed that it can take me 30 minutes to expertly remove a 'layer' without disturbing the fabric surrounding it. I have run out of boxes (which are a nuisance to wheel out and un-stack and then re-stack) everytime I want to start something. And then of course, I'm bored of looking at the same fabric all the time, knowing that something should be done with it, rather than have it just sitting there. I could easily buy fabric almost constantly, infact, everytime I go out I could probably pick up a few more fat quarters or metres of something really special....but when am I going to get around to sorting out all this fabric? There is always going to be something new and interesting coming out, but I've decided to devote more time to my numerous pending ideas....and commit myself to creating new projects, patterns and ideas that use up existing fabric only.
This year, I'm going to be stash busting.Monday 29 December 2008
Baking!
A few years ago (after exhausting all the flavours and types at the local patisseries, cake shops and bakeries), we wanted to enjoy some new cakes, so my daughter's took up the challenge of beginning to bake all our cakes - for every occassion.
I think this was the best cake decision we've made, it's really enjoyable to watch my girls bake and realise again and again just how much work goes into a good cake. This was a first attempt at croquenbouche, and it tasted delicious. The only thing missing was the spun sugar nest - which just didnt come together (she lost patience with the candy thermometre and decided to glue the stack together with chocolate instead!).
It's so nice to finally be able to delegate some cooking!
Sunday 28 December 2008
Block placements, take 2
Seasonal Sewing
We grew tired of our usual festive tablecloth, so I decided to quickly make one at the last minute. Actually, it wasn't a real UFO, it was just a hemming project. I had this wonderful apple print fabric that I bought a few years ago to be a quilt backing...but I really didn't want to see it languish at the back of a quilt, its so pretty and festive, it was definitely calling for some attention. I love the apples, and of course the red. I zipped up the red edging in just a few minutes. I love stumbling across great print fabric that just 'tells you' what it wants to be!
And then I found another packed away stash of fabric and I decided that it too was destined to be a tablecloth. We have a birthday just following Christmas in our family, so I like to have a change for the table.
This one took a little longer as I had to join it all up (it was cut in large squares and rectangles). I added some trim, and that's that! Who said Christmas was too busy a time for some home sewing?
Wednesday 24 December 2008
Wednesday 17 December 2008
Update
I havent packed away the unfinished pink/green UFO yet...which is promising, its on the wall, reminding me to get on with it...but, it is Christmas afterall, so I dont know WHEN that will happen.
about the 15th
Now, I know we all hate a deadline (the months just seem to fly by) but the 15th of the month is definitely the deadline for each monthly BOM. In fairness to those who purchase the block through my shop, there will be no emailed blocks or exceptions after this date. I want you to all enjoy this mystery BOM, so please remember that:
Tuesday 16 December 2008
Info about Nightshade, block 2
The finished size of the Nightshade block is 16 inches x 9 inches. (Finished size means NO SEAM ALLOWANCE).
Cutting size: when cutting the background fabric for Nightshade, I have ADDED a seam allowance (making it 16.5 inches x 9.5 inches).
Monday 15 December 2008
Block placements
At the moment I'm still wrestling with my EQ6 software which is driving me plain crazy with frustration! You see, I had the quilt outlay and blocks ready to insert each months block, and then I moved something....and couldnt get it back....and then it all went wrong...so I'm going to correct it shortly and put it up so that you can see where each new piece of the mystery belongs....When I sort out my software stand -off, I will post up the outlay promptly...until then, think of it as a 'double blind' mystery...
Nightshade is available
Block 2, Nightshade
Welcome: NIGHTSHADE, block 2!
When I first had the idea to start a free mystery BOM, I had no idea that it would grow into something so rewarding. Block 1, Love Birds has now had over 11'000 downloads - more than I ever expected. THANK YOU for joining in !
Friday 12 December 2008
3 DAYS TO GO
On the 15th of December, Red Delicious BLOCK 1 will no longer be available for free. After the 15th you can buy block 1 from my etsy shop for a minimal fee.
I know many of you are taking part in this mystery BOM and I dont want you to miss out, so please hurry!
Thursday 11 December 2008
Quilting...
I'm at my machine again tonight, finishing the birthday quilt.
After this one, it's officially Christmas season for me and I'm going to stick with designing, catching up with the quilting magazines that keep arriving on my door (time flys when youre quilting!) and of course, designing some more quilts. ( I have a few new ones brewing that I have to get down).
At some point, I'll have to take a moment to consider doing the Christmas shopping too..
Wednesday 10 December 2008
Finished
I really enjoyed turning my white stash into hand dyes...there's something really rewarding about creating your own design and using your own hand dyes.
Sunday 7 December 2008
Ok, a little sneak peek
Do you have your next batch of reds ready? Remember, You only need scraps - don't go out and buy any!
It's nearly been a month and I can't believe how quickly time has flown by. I knew a free BOM was a great idea....but I wasn't expecting so much positive support and feedback! Nearly 10'000 downloads and counting...
Thank you to everyone who has decided to take part in this mystery. I have received some GREAT email pics of finished blocks - I'm in awe at how fast they started arriving in my in-box. It's good to know that I'm not the only one with a red stash!
Can't wait to see the next batch arrive!