Making an Instant Vintage Quilt

When I created this patriotic little quilt - I wanted it to look like something that would have been made in 1876. A mini quilt that celebrated our nations 100th Birthday. The reproduction fabrics and elaborate hand quilting on this tiny piece definately helped - but I wanted it to look even more vintage.
So I went online and purchased a package of a product called Instant Vintage from one of my very favorite quilt shops. The instructions were easy, just add the powder provided to 4 cups hot water. I must admit - I was a bit petrified the staining would take away some of the charm of my stitching. So I only made the solution 1/2 strength. (added only half the powder to the 4 cups hot water) But look how nicely it turned out:




Here is a slideshow I created of the entire EASY process:

I hung my little quilt outside to dry and this is my finished "Instant Vintage" quilt.

If you'd like to give this method a try you can find the Instant Vintage powder online at Temecula Quilt Company www.temeculaquiltco.com
The owner is Sheryl Johnson - be sure to check out her great blog too: temeculaquiltco.blogspot.com/

Till next time...May all your Quilts be treasures!

Contemporary Quilt vs Traditional Quilter

I confess - I tend to gravitate towards old "love worn" quilts. And it's even been said that I have a ridiculous collection of reproduction fabrics. Can someone define ridiculous?

But the fact that I'm more comfortable creating quilts that are steeped in tradition - does NOT mean that I don't love & respect other quilting genre's. I am very intrigued with Mixed Media quilts and consider most contemporary quilts fascinating works of art.

Last year, I made this art quilt I've titled VARIETAL BLEND as a gift to my husband. His love & admiration for the vineyards of Virginia and Napa Valley inspired me to create this contemporary quilt. It's my impressionistic view of wine grapes & all the seasonal colors found in the vineyard.

It's made from hand-stamped, painted and dyed fabrics. Most of them are bali batiks but a few of them I dyed myself. I even stain soaked one of the fabrics with Cabernet wine.

Contemporary Quilt - YES, but I have another confession. I made it using only one simple block pattern. What was the name of that quilt pattern you ask?? Why none other than the old traditional Drunkards Path!

The Cherry Blossoms in DC

If you ever plan to visit our nation's capital then I highly recommend you arrive in early April. When the cherry trees are in peak along the Tidal Basin - a stroll thru the park under the pink, snowy blossoms will feel like a joyful trip to some enchanted forest.

It is one of those experiences that will leave you feeling good.
Despite what political storms may brew... these glorious trees remain an acknowledgement that there is still a place in DC for peaceful reflection.

Nature's Own Easter Eggs

It's Good Friday, the day I typically dye my Easter eggs.
Last year I enjoyed sharing recipes on how to make natural organic Easter dyes.
This year (for the first time) I won't be dying eggs.

Instead I will reflect on and admire natures own pallette of wonder. There are several varieties of Hens that lay beautiful colored eggs. Although each hen will only lay one color of egg - they can be bluish, greenish, pinkish brown, gray, white, golden or brown. If you are ever fortunate enough to come across eggs laid by Aracana, Ameraucana or Easter Egger Hens, you are sure to be delighted by their NATURAL beauty!

Wishing you all the Joy of Easter!



For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son,
that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish,but have everlasting life.
John 3:16