In The Studio 01

The bits and pieces I’ve been making, creating, reading, and doing – stitchy or otherwise.

Back in the day, (or as my kids used to say, “Back in the ages”!) I used to write fairly in-depth newsletters, sharing more “behind the scenes” bits and pieces, things I’ve been reading or buying or making or admiring. While I am an introvert, I do love a good quilty chit-chat! But it took quite a while to do that each week, and I had to change how I did things to make it more sustainable as life and work changed. I do still send out newsletters, but moreso as a way to keep you updated on when there’s a new blog post out, or other big news! If that sounds good to you – sign up here.

But I miss that chit-chat. That chance to share what’s been going on around here, as well as what I’ve been enjoying around the place online or otherwise. So, why not bring it back? But where everyone can read it, and to have a nice little record for myself of what I’ve been up to.

CREATING

We’ve just finished our two weeks of winter holidays, and what a busy holidays we’ve had! I’ve not had a lot of time to sew, but I managed to finish my new Geode quilt top (check out the fun little video I made here about the quilt!), as well as baste it… except I hurt my right ankle while carrying the folding table outside for spray basting! Nothing major, but enough that I’ve had to use my left foot to start quilting it. Thankfully I’m “just” using my walking foot (ha!) so it’s manageable, but I certainly I couldn’t have free motion quilted with my left foot.

I’ve also glue basted about a dozen Plenty of Thyme blocks, and hand-appliqued a few more. It takes me about 20 minutes or so to applique each one… and I have 100 total to stitch, so this part of the quilt will be taking me a while! Compared to the 5 minutes it took to stitch each unit together, this does feel like it takes soooo much longer, ha, but that’s ok, I’m enjoying the process.

WRITING

This month, I’m running Women of Advent again, so I’ve been busy welcoming the new group in and getting them settled and started on their sewing and devotional journeys. It is such an honour to be able to walk with them through such a creative journey of faith, and the lessons I learn from the participants each time is so powerful.

LOVING

The quilting on Alyssa’s Tic Tac Toe quilt is freaking amazeballs! Fun fact – Alyssa and I met 6 1/2 years ago at Quilt Con because she was my swap partner for a mini quilt swap (click here to see the quilt I made her).

You can find the Tic Tac Toe quilt block tutorial here.

READING

Living in another country is a powerful experience in opening your hearts and minds to how vast and different the world is outside your own domestic bubble. I love reading Rachel’s Expat Chronicles, and her latest update on social trust is very similar for our own experiences of living in Japan for 4 years. Also – this month marks 5 years back in Australia… crazy how time flies!

INSPIRING

I don’t crochet (I’ve dabbled but it didn’t stick), but I do love the idea of making a crochet version of a beloved quilt pattern! Jemima’s done just that with her Merryweather Blanket and it’s gorgeous.

WATCHING + LISTENING

After recently signing up for Binge for a free trial to watch the Friends Reunion, we decided to keep it, and I have also now watched The Vow (NXIVM cult doco), and my husband and I are working our way through Big Love… Why yes, I do have a bit of a fascination with cults 😂

And here’s one for the Gilmore Girls fans – the I Am All In podcast hosted by Scott Patterson! It’s made for good sewing background listening – doesn’t matter too much if you tune out while your brain focuses on ruler measurements for cutting for a bit.

What about you? I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to lately!