Works In Progress Archives -

April 1, 2016 by: Janelle Jones

Comfort Quilts: Fabric Request & Quilt-Along Dates

More than 40 quilt makers, sewists and givers have made blocks, volunteered quilting services, donated batting and contributions for sashing fabric to help in the effort create Comfort Quilts for Corporal Nate Carrigan’s loved ones, Captain Mark Hancock and Master Patrol Deputy Kolby Martin (Previous Story Here).

The first Comfort Quilt top is nearly complete and more quilt-alongs are slated. We’ve backer/binding/border fabric for this first quilt thanks a generous donor. A few more folks, self-proclaimed “non-crafters”, who have asked for ways to get involved with the quilts now have the opportunity to help.

Please keep reading to find out specifics regarding gifting backer/binding/border fabric.

Working on the quilt was humbling. Seeing all the various fabrics block makers selected and knowing each block was lovingly made and sent was tremendously moving. I feel so honored to be a part of the effort to piece the blocks and help finish the quilts with others who share in the hope of providing a bit of comfort to those who have given so very much. I know all who contributed share in this hope.

The first Comfort Quilt-along was at the home of Denese Marshall, truly one of the most generous souls I’ve ever met. Denese will be hosting four more quilt-alongs and will long-arm each quilt. The use of her accu-cutter greatly aided in our progress to prep the sashing. Denese also made thread and machines available. Denese is a patient expert quilter, and former first grade teacher, who took time to help consider and guide the process.

My sister Vicki Bruno (my quilting mentor, the woman who got me into quilting about a year ago) lent her organizational, sewing and composition expertise.

In addition to quilt block makers, we’ve been blessed with “angel givers” — people who have contributed batting, donations for sashing and one order has already been placed for the backing/border/binding of the first quilt.

We are hoping to receive three more direct fabric contributions of 3.75 yards (each a whole piece) to cover remaining needs for backing/border and binding.

We’ve selected a fabric to marry the quilt design and various blues, details here. If you would like to make a fabric contribution, please let me know so we can coordinate efforts and not over-order.

Comfort Quilt-Alongs are scheduled for April 7 & 8 and May 13 & 14. 10AM-5PM each day. Come for the day or as time permits. Space is limited, please RSVP to Denese via email at your earliest opportunity: denesemarshall@comcast.net Be sure to indicate when you’re able to join the Quilt-Alongs. Bring a sack lunch and ask Denese what tools (rotary, machine, etc) you may need to bring.

Thanks so very much to all who have given a piece of their hearts to aid in the creation of the Comfort Quilts. We will post pictures of the completed quilts after gifting.

Special Note: The Golden Quilt Company extended a 10% discount for our white on white sashing fabric. Thanks Nancy!

SGlogo50px God created, sew should we. [Creative Joy = Therapy = Undeniable Rippling Effects.] Our stories as makers are valuable. [Life is humbling. Sharing our journeys is uplifting and productive.]

March 15, 2016 by: Janelle Jones

Comfort Quilts Call-to-Action: Step One About Done. Quilt Alongs Slated.

This week Corporal Nate Carrigan was laid to rest. Captain Mark Hancock and Master Patrol Deputy Kolby Martin, both recovering from wounds suffered from he same incident (Original story here) which claimed Corporal Carrigan’s life, were able to join his loved ones, community members and friends (as many as 4,000 mourners) to pay tribute to the fallen deputy.

In the midst of great sorrow and need, it is my belief God speaks into the hearts of His children. Those who hear Him, are able and willing, act.

Such has truly been the case of more than 40 quilting and sewing volunteers nationwide (coast-to-coast, Bailey/Pine communities and throughout Colorado) who have made blocks and volunteered other services to help create Comfort Quilts for Corporal Carrigan’s loved ones, Captain Hancock and Master Patrol Deputy Martin.

Block Makers: On Sunday, I went through and sorted, cataloged, “sleeved” and excel-spread sheeted (because I am like that) where the blocks came from and who made them. I read your letters extending thanks for this effort. I put sealed envelopes addressed to the Carrigans with their authors’ blocks.

It was uplifting and bittersweet. Heartwarming and tremendously sad. Indescribable really. I wish you could have been with me, but felt in some way you all were — in my spare bedroom converted office/studio.

I was gripped by the outpouring of love in your words, your carefully made blocks, your special and unique fabric selections, your sense of mission — and the senselessness of the tragedy and tremendous loss all at once. I hope and pray our efforts are a worthy means of comfort to those hurting, and to you as well.

We have nearly cleared the first hurdle in gathering blocks — we’ve enough to make 3.5 quilts.

It is anticipated there will be enough blocks to make four quilts. Also, Michelle Holiday has volunteered to make medallions to compliment the predominantly blue, gold, silver and white blocks we’ve gathered; another volunteer has offered to embroider labels. A few with expertise in long arm quilting have offer their services. Some have offered to contribute toward materials for backing, sashing and batting (to date, we’ve received $100 in contributions).

Here are four ways you can remain involved/up-to-date with the next steps of the creation process or offer assistance:

1) Save the Dates! Join in the Comfort Quilt-Alongs! A special opportunity for local quilters to meet one another and come together to complete the quilts of comfort. Castle Rock/Castle Pines resident Denese Marshall has volunteered her quilting expertise, long-arm skills and her home for a series of QUILT-ALONGs. Denese has ties to the Bailey community (longtime friend of Holly Menuier). She has hosted a number of quilting fellowship gatherings. Volunteers who would like to be involved in piecing, cutting, lay-out, assembly, pressing (and especially visiting) are asked to bring their machines, mats, rotaries, seam rippers (always those rippers) rulers, open hearts, a sack lunch and enthusiasm for teaming.

The Comfort Quilt-Alongs are currently scheduled for March 26, April 7 & 8 and May 13 & 14. 10AM-5PM each day. Come for the day or as time permits. Space is limited, please RSVP to Denese via email at your earliest opportunity: denesemarshall@comcast.net Be sure to indicate when you’re able to join the Quilt-Alongs.

2) If you’d like, bring a dessert, veggies or fruit to share at the Quilt-Alongs.

3) Materials Contributions: Thanks to those who have sent contributions to defray the costs of backing, sashing and batting. Others who wish to make contributions for materials may do so at the quilt-alongs or via snail mail to: Janelle Jones 9974 Clairton Street, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Any surplus funds will be distributed to the following (see below).

4) Assistance Funds:
* Deputy Kolby Martin Assistance Fund: Recovering from multiple gunshot wounds, Kolby has been released into the care of his family. He is an officer, father, son, brother, friend and needs prayers and support. Click here to contribute to his assistance.
* Nate Carrigan Scholarship Fund: Contributions accepted at any Bank of the West.
* The Melissa Patterson Fund: Nate is survived by his girlfriend and her four children. Contributions to the fund will be accepted at any Bank of the West.

Thanks block makers and contributors! To date blocks and/or contributions have been received from: Terrie James, Judy de Boer, Jamie Bernstein, Donna Carter, Lauri Knox, Kathy Krieger, Barbara Meachum, Kate Olsen, Charlotte Wytias, Judy Young, Joyce Steed, Kathy Lederhos, Steph Terry, Catherine Kealy, Karin Prieto, Tracy Knights, Dawn Mills, Ruth Nott, Anne Marcellis, Mary Therit, Cheryl Williams, Ruth Miller, Jen Lanak, Janet Ficklin, Heidi Kunz, Jessie Burbach, Cindy Mauch, Dee Prendergrass, Karen Dever, Jeanne Schurr, Vicki Bruno, T. Strieter, Denese Marshall, Cindy Mauch, Lois Hoy, Earlene Swaner, L.Trimble, Nancy Schuldt, Shayna Hamlin, Kathy Haller, Linda Laird, Lori Dreher, Jill Fischer, Anonymous (Arvada, CO), Vickie Bond, Katie Spodyak, Tamra Urich. If you’ve submitted blocks and your name is not on this list, please let me know. Again, thanks so very much.

February 26, 2016 by: Janelle Jones

Quilters: Blocks Needed For Carrigan Comfort Quilt

Bailey, CO: Three Park County Sheriff’s Department officers were wounded Wednesday while serving an eviction notice on a man who first motioned the officers into his home, then opened fire. Corporal Nate Carrigan of the Park County Sheriff’s Office injuries were fatal.

Master Patrol Deputy Kolby Martin is in serious condition with multiple gunshot wounds and Captain Mark Hancock was grazed in the ear, treated and has been released.

Corporal Nate Carrigan: Dedicated Deputy & Coach

The community of Bailey Colorado is in mourning [Denver ABC News 7 story here]. Carrigan, who grew up in the close-knit mountain town, served also as the baseball and football coach at Platte Canyon High School. He leaves behind his parents Melissa and John, siblings Jamie, John and Alicia, his girlfriend Melissa and countless others who will miss seeing him in town, on the field or at the Cutthroat Cafe.

Yesterday a group of three beginning quilters began discussing how to create a quilt for Carrigan’s loved ones.

A few years ago, our daughter received a tied fleece blanket from Project Linus. It comforted her and is part of her healing. I’m hoping a quilt we all work together to create can help those closest to Nate. It will also help us as makers to remember to be grateful for officers and their families. I’ve spent a great deal of my life in Bailey, it’s like my second home. I’ve many friends and family members who live in and are active in the community. I’m just hoping we can be of comfort to those hurting.

Blue Birds Fly: Swallows swoop then soar.

“We as a family know how it feels to have to grieve a loss that should never happen. These guys work hard for us. Let me know the colors,” said Michelle Holiday, whose family has also lost members serving in law enforcement. Michelle will be making the center medallion for the quilt.

“A quilt signifies warmth. It is something that brings comfort,” said Michelle.

“I am a police officer’s wife and my heart sank when I read of this news yesterday. I am actually designing a quilt for my son made from this line [Blue Bird by Cotton + Steel] right now … I am ordering my fabric today. When do you need the squares by?” said Stephanie Leigh, another beginning quilter.

{February 26, 2016 UPDATE BELOW: Important Block Prep Info & Keeping you in the Loop …}

Cotton + Steel Blue Bird Collection: Some are using fabrics from this line to create blocks. Palette guidelines below.

Quilters of all levels are asked to participate in the creation of the Carrigan Comfort Quilt. It is hoped enough blocks can be prepared to provide two quilts; one for Nate’s parents and one for his girlfriend.

Here’s how you can help.

Pray for Nate’s loved ones and for the healing of his fellow officers. Please also pray for the safety of all first responders and their families and those who have lost loved ones in law enforcement.
Commit to making a block (or more). Please notify me in the comment box below as to your ability to do so and how many blocks you can make. Ideally we need 32+ blocks for one quilt (64 if we’re looking to do two quilts). Send such to me: Janelle Jones 9974 Clairton Street, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 by March 15, 2015 or earlier.
If you’re on or near the Colorado front range and would like to assist with assembly, please let me know.
Please feel free to include a short note of gratitude when you send your block/s. Nate’s parents’ names are Melissa & John Carrigan, his siblings are Jamie (also an officer in another Colorado community), John and Alicia. Nate’s girlfriend is Melissa Patterson.

Block Specifications (Pattern) & Color Palette:

Palette: Predominantly navy blue and complimentary blues; White (a white that goes well with your fabrics); Gold and complimentary yellows. Sashing lines within your block should be white. Stephanie and I will be using fabrics from Cotton + Steel’s Blue Bird line. Feel free to do so, or use fabrics you feel will be calming, uplifting and comforting within the palette. Michelle’s medallion will also feature birds.
Block Pattern: From Moda’s Ruby, Peal & Opal FREE Quilt Pattern by Corey Yoder. Instructions here.

God created, sew should we. [Creative Joy = Therapy = Undeniable Rippling Effects.] Our stories as makers are valuable. [Life is humbling. Sharing our journeys is uplifting and productive.]

UPDATE: Important Block Prep Info & Keeping you in the Loop February 28, 2016 …

* Block/s Preparation & Sashing: Thanks to those making multiple blocks. We are REALLY hoping to make two nice sized quilts. Please prepare and send your multiple block as individual blocks; do not sash such together. The assembly team will add top and bottom sashing and vertical sashing. Thank you so much.

* Internal “Sashing”: The vertical and horizontal lines within your blocks should be a white that compliments your other fabrics. If that’s a white on white, or cream on white, or bright white, no worries. We’re going to pick a blender (white on white or a contrast for the overall sashing. Do what looks best on your block. Again, please do not add the top and bottom sashing. To keep things uniform, we will add such during assembly.

* Keeping in touch. It would be good to be able to keep in touch with everyone over the course of this project. Many have indicated a willingness to provide more blocks if need be, a few have offered to make contributions for materials such as batting and backing and assembly help and other great things, etc…. The good way to keep everyone in the progress and needs loop is via our newsletter. Please keep the subscribe box checked near your “Reply” OR utilize the subscriber box if you did not do so in your initial correspondence.

* Please REPLY … as you’re committing to making a block, please let us know below so that we can get a rough idea of how many blocks will be sent. When you reply, if it is your first time replying on Sew God, your post will not automatically show. This is a protective measure to make sure comments posted are appropriate and even more so, that we are not spammed by robots (for real). Please be patient. I try to reply and approve frequently. Thank you.

February 12, 2016 by: Janelle Jones

Sew a Fancy Fox, Rural Squirrel & Momversations

So … the dishwasher flooded the kitchen … water damage seeped into the family room, the dining room and …

Sew what?

Sew a Fancy Fox, that’s what.

After the initial readying of the laundry room to serve as a make-shift get-by kitchen sink.

And after a second visit from the plumber to figure out the source of the leak and verifying such is now truly shut down …

And after relating initial damage inventory (basement ceiling, wood flooring, carpet, kitchen island) to the nice insurance representatives, and scheduling the adjuster’s visit … Between fielding calls from two mitigation specialists each explaining two very different plans of restoration attack … and just prior to going to pick up my funny, humorous teen from play rehearsal…

Sew a Fancy Fox!

Thankful for cut cloth and a clean sewing room and 15 minutes to piece the first of five plaid (Fancy) Foxes for a special quilt I am making for a special little someone.

[Life is humbling. Sharing our journeys is uplifting and productive.]

Plaid Fox is not perfect. Still, he will will be appearing with his family members-to-be on the back of one of my present Work-in-Progress.

A few weeks back, I purchased a Fancy Fox Quilt Kit, with Robert Kaufman Rhoda Ruth Fabrics and pattern by Elizabeth Hartman on sale.

Robert Kaufman Rhoda Ruth Fancy Fox Quilt. Kit available.

I was thinking of a future gifting opportunity and had been eyeing some of Elizabeth’s patterns for months. Ordered by itself, the pattern is $10. My kit purchase included the pattern and all the cute fabrics and … it was on sale.

Right now especially, it seems those were dollars well-spent. Calling it therapeutic sanity and I know you so get it. I am grateful for the 15 or so minutes to stitch Plaid Fox. Even got happy to rip out and redo a few seams.

Out of the chaos that is presently at the heart (kitchen) of our home, there is my Plaid [Fancy] Fox block.

[Creative Joy = Therapy]

For more amazing creature blocks and quilt patterns click over to Sew Fresh Quilts. Quilter, Designer, Blogger Lorna’s creations are filled with whimsical character {OMYGOSH!!! RURAL SQUIRREL}. Her Rural Squirrel Quilt debuts at Quiltcon next week in Northcott Fabric’s booth.

My folks lived in a wooded area that was in the country when they built their home decades ago. Eventually engulfed by suburbs, our former family home is still situated on about five acres.

My dad used to say “The place is over-run with squirrel and fox.” To one Howard Collins, dealing with the squirrel population was very “personal” and relocation efforts serious.

For some critter-related-EVERYONE’s-MOM humor watch this …

If you’ve seen it, watch it again. You’ll still laugh. Everyone relates.

I was surprised to hear a few of my kids’ hysterical outbursts at my expense when the ad first started airing. Apparently, the timing of my calls is not always convenient. The “squirrel” comments in this particular Momversation reminded me of my mom’s calls of years past.

Plus, I have my own checkered past with squirrels, but that’s another story. Blessings all!

January 12, 2016 by: Janelle Jones

Beach-y Breezy or Warm & Cozy? Learn to Quilt Together!

Kona Cotton Cozy Throw Quilt. Click on image for quilt details.

I’m excited. Giddy. Obnoxious with anticipation. January is officially reboot month.

And I want you to join me in a bit of decadence.

Cliche as it sounds, January represents possibilities and fresh starts. An opportunity to commit to nurturing our creative sides.

Just looking at The Cozy Throw Quilt is a mental vacation from Colorado’s frigid January temps. To me the quilt’s simplicity, and especially the featured color palate, lean toward a much-appreciated beach-y vibe. But if you were going to make this quilt switching to a black background and warm colors, the look and feel might change dramatically.

Psssst … It’s OKAY to have WIPs and UFOs, pass it on!

In the online quilting world during the past few weeks, I’ve seen umpteen thousand Facebook friend and blog posts featuring stunning former UFO’s (Unfinished Objects) that have been completed with gusto. Some of the same proud quilt creators have now moved on to posting current works-in-progress (WIPS).

QuiltSpeak Defined: As I understand it, the difference between the UFOs and WIPs seems to be “shelf life” — that is UFOs may have been put away for some reason and a long time, while WIPs might just be lingering on the dining room table or on a design wall for a few weeks.

Either way, I’m ok admitting I’ve 2 WIPs and 1 UFO.

And … I’m about to jump into another WIP.

And, I’m inviting you to join me in learning to create this wonderful Kona Cotton Cozy Quilt Throw.

If you’re among those I’ve heard from who’ve shied away from quilting because getting started seems complicated, or too pricey, or too time consuming or group classes intimidate you or you can’t find time to work a shop class into your schedule — this may be your opportunity to step into the light.

Nurse your creative urges.

Learn to Quilt: Cozy Throw Quilt. Click on image above for course details.

About a week ago, a good friend and I were therapeutically browsing through Craftsy’s quilt kits. Since a few I’d been wanting to try had been discounted, I added a few to my cart. Then I didn’t order them because I didn’t want to act impulsively.

When I was offered a free online class from Craftsy for recently becoming an affiliate, I jumped at the opportunity to take Amy Gibson’s Learn to Quilt: Cozy Throw Quilt course.

How cool is it this beginner level class is for one of the very projects I had sitting in my cart — begging to become my new WIP?

I’ll be reviewing the class and the project as I go. And hope you’ll join in the fun and share any insights and photos of your WIPs as well.

This way we get to make a quilt together, learn together and enjoy building our Sew God community.

I’ve taken a few Craftsy courses this past year and have benefitted tremendously from such. It’s the next best thing to having an onsite magic personal Quilt Mentor.

You can take and retake the class — pause, review and accelerate — according to your schedule, any time, day or night.

Gibson’s Learn to Quilt: Cozy Throw Quilt course should appeal to beginners and intermediates, teaching how to make a quilt start to finish — 100% — utilizing basic tools. Imagine the possibilities … choosing whether to personally quilt tops at home or invest using a long-arm service. These fundamental techniques will translate into greater a greater spectrum of creativity and many gifting projects (pillows, potholders, bags…).

For the course you can use your own fabrics, or save time and money by using Craftsy’s discounted Cozy Throw Quilt kit (the one I put in my cart last week). The kit is discount priced and filled with high quality, beautiful Kona Cottons.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts about the class and seeing your WIPs.

Thank you for visiting Craftsy for your creative needs. SewGod.com receives a commission when you purchase Craftsy courses and products using links from our blog. We look forward to your input and continued growth of our online makers community.

September 24, 2015 by: Janelle Jones

“So God?” Sew God.

Alone with our Maker, prayers sometimes take a conversational tone. Often starting with, “So God …” venturing into some “where do I go from here?” question.

Work In Progress: Me.

“So God?” prayers come from deep inside and are often pleadings with our Creator to find a sense of comfort or simply request guidance. “So God?” prayers are the ones that most clearly show resignation, a willingness to listen and to follow.

“So God?” conversations do not always provide immediate answers, like when seeking to comprehend worldly injustice, make sense of school shootings, a good friend’s divorce, the unexpected loss of those close or when “time marches on” as my Mom used to say.

How does ‘So God?’ get us to Sew God?

My “So God?” prayers sometimes seek answers to current life challenges and milestones, kids growing up, moving away and new normals.
[Read more…]