Happy Easter!

I spent much of yesterday in my sewing studio (it used to be a “sewing area” then switched to a “sewing room” but with the long arm, has been upgraded to a “sewing studio" so I can feel snooty). First, I moved things around to give me a designated ironing station for longer pieces of fabric. I also patched together a smaller ironing station that is large enough for 15 inch blocks to sit near my Janome.

Mid afternoon, two jelly rolls that I ordered from Fabric Depot several weeks ago arrived. I got them 40% off and they were a pre-order. I expect I will be so busy learning to use the longarm that I won't be piecing any new quilts (other than practice quilts) anytime soon.

We went out to eat at the Mexican restaurant. I’ve not been too good on my “diet,” lately. I’ve been eating like a loon and still lost 2 pounds. Go figure. After sleeping it off, I went back into the studio and added a zipper to the top leader. Then I practiced loading and basting two more quilts. I practiced squaring up the quilts and learned a lot. AMAZINGLY, they came out flat!


I practiced doing some feathers and some free motion.


I also practiced starting new rows for pantographs. One of the top fabrics was a print of yarn balls like you'd see kitties playing with. I practiced tracing the yarn with thread to learn machine control.


I really think I have made progress on learning how the machine works. I also spent some time studying one of my long arm books and it makes sooooo much more sense after having done a quilt or two.


Today, I may draw some pseudo blocks to practice certain designs on flat cloth. Next, I want to stitch together some squares to practice more intricate quilting that includes seams. I may need to trip on down to Wal-Mart to buy cheap fabric on the closeout aisle. Since we are going out to eat at our favorite German restaurant, mid afternoon, I probably won’t have time to do that, today. I wish I had some cheaper batting on hand.

Overlying all that, Husband and I have been dreaming about returning home. He is researching lawn tractors and guttering for the new house, and I have been sighing over pictures of Oklahoma City that I find on the Internet. We’ll need to get a washer and dryer for the renter and I am sure we’ll have a ton of other expenses (utility deposits, etc.) coming up. 2008 is going to be one expensive year!

Happy Easter, Happy Spring. Count your blessings.