DIY Planner Cover

January 15, 2020January 16, 20206 Comments

I just love my 2020 Quilter’s Planner! I wanted to make a cover for it, but the patterns I found did not give me all the customizations that I wanted for my own planner cover. It was important to have a flap with some sort of closure, an interior zipper pocket and also a spot for my small notebooks. I decided I needed to go ahead and make my own DIY planner cover and that is just what I did! Keep reading to learn more about my DIY Planner Cover and how you can make one for yourself!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

planner cover Pattern

I drafted and published my own Planner Cover Pattern. This design is perfect for my 2020 Quilter’s Planner and can be used with many different types of closures.

Magnetic Snap Closure

For one of my Planner Covers, I decided to use a magnetic snap. These are super simple to install and the hardware comes in a variety of finishes (Gunmetal, Antique Bronze, Gold & Nickel). I thought that the gunmetal finish looked best for the fabric that I was using for my Planner Cover. I used a small piece of Peltex to stabilize the washer. Be sure to watch my video below for visual instructions!

Inset Zipper Pocket

I love having a pencil, pens, markers, and colored pencils handy for my DIY Planner Cover. I decided to create an interior inset zipper (or welted zipper pocket) for the left interior sleeve. I used a #5 zipper (which has a wider tape). I get all my zippers from my favorite online shop. She has a great selection and super quick shipping! I used a coordinating fabric for the interior of the zipper pocket. I just love all the little details (even the custom sewn-in woven labels)!

Notebook pocket

I am a notetaker and a list maker! I love to jot down notes and keep track of my lists while I’m working with my planner. I use these little note pads all the time and wanted to incorporate a small pocket on the opposite interior sleeve to accommodate these notepads. I used the same method as the inset zipper, just omitted the zipper. Super simple!

DIY Planner Cover Material LIST

Planner Cover Pattern
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Exterior Body & Zipper Pocket Lining
- more needed if your fabric is directional
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Interior Body, Interior Sleeves & Notebook Pocket
- more needed if your fabric is directional
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Exterior Sleeves & Interior Flap
Approximately 8″ x 12″ for the Exterior Flap
- It is up to you on what type of fabric you want to choose for this.
  - Be mindful that your machine will need to sew through this, plus several other layers during assembly. If you want a machine that can handle it all – check out my blog series on my Industrial Sewing Machine!
Approx. 30″ x 12″ of Batting or Foam
- I would recommend either Quilter’s Dream Supreme batting or Soft and Stable Foam.
Approx. 14″ x 12″ of Decor Bond interfacing
Peltex scraps
Qty (1) 9″ zipper (I get my zippers here)
- be sure to get a #5 or purse zipper. The tape is wider.
Qty (1) closure
- You can choose between a magnetic snap, a Purse Turn Lock or even a fancy Flip Lock.
Qty (1) Custom Label (optional)
- get 15% off your custom label from Dutch Label Shop (Coupon Code: sewmuchmoore15)

Basic Sewing Supplies & Tools Needed

Sewing Machine with a zipper foot and regular presser foot
Thread
- For Domestic Sewing Machines, I would recommend this thread
Jeans sewing needle
Seam Ripper
Sewing Pins
Double-Sided Tape (this is optional, but makes installing a zipper a BREEZE!)
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I use this brand – 45mm)
Acrylic Ruler (I like this brand)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I recommend this rotating mat – it’s amazing!)
Clover Wonder Clips
Fray Check
Exacto Knife (optional)
Marking Pen (I like to use my Frixion Pen or a pencil)
Sharp Scissors (I love this pair)
Iron & Ironing Board (this one is on my wish list)

WATCH MY VIDEO TUTORIAL

Grab your Planner Cover Pattern and watch my video tutorial! This is such a fun and easy pattern. It’s packed full of useful extras (like making a welted pocket and installing a magnetic closure). Make yourself a Quilter’s Planner Cover today!

It’s not too late to order your own 2020 Quilter’s Planner! I just know you’re gonna love it!

Just Keep Sewing!

Hugs and Kisses Quilt Block

January 8, 2020January 12, 20207 Comments

The Hugs and Kisses Quilt block is a fun and versatile quilt block! These blocks have also been called “X & O”. How cute! You can make an entire quilt with either the ‘X’ quilt block or an entire quilt of the ‘O’ quilt block. It is even better when you mix up the quilt pattern with a little bit of both! Check out the materials list and get your pattern and let’s make some fun quilt blocks!

To get your cutting measurements and specific sewing directions, you have a couple of choices:

Option 1: Download for free.

To download the cutting measurements & specific sewing instructions for free, you can subscribe to the Sew Much Moore Newsletter. AFTER you sign up, you’ll get a confirmation email – and you have to confirm or my email service can’t send you the free pattern access email. But once you do confirm, you’ll get access to not just this but several other free patterns. Woot!

(PS – if you have trouble finding the pattern as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase this PDF pattern

Use this link to purchase a pattern file. You’ll be emailed a download link for a file that references the instructions in this tutorial and provides the cutting measurements for this pattern. You’ll also be able to download this file in my shop.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

Hugs & Kisses QUILT BLOCK SUPPLY LIST

Quilt Block Pattern
Qty (2) half yard of Contrasting Fabrics (I love the new fabrics from this store)

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

Sewing Machine
Cotton Thread (this is what I use)
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I use this brand – 45mm)
Acrylic Ruler (I like this brand)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I recommend this rotating mat – it’s amazing!)
Iron & Ironing Board

This amount of fabric will make more than (2) quilt blocks, but that’s ok! We love extra fabric!!!

Check out this video to give you an idea of how to make the quilt block. You will love how easy it is to make and want to make more!

What about doing an entire quilt? Wouldn’t that be great??!!??

Be sure to show your completed Hugs and Kisses Quilt Blocks in my Facebook Group!

We would love to see your work!

Until next time, Happy Quilting!

Be sure to check out my most popular posts!

How to tackle your UFO pile

January 2, 20202 Comments

Do you have a quilting or sewing UFO pile? Are you a starter of projects and struggle with getting to the finish line? Do you have so many unfinished projects that it almost seems overwhelming to get back to them? I totally get that! I want to help and show you how to tackle your UFO pile! I am often inspired by new fabrics and patterns – which leads me to start new projects. I can often be working on several projects at the same time! I think that simultaneous projects can help keep the sewing room interesting and ward off boredom. Let me show you a few of my tricks to accomplish that UFO pile.

Make a list to tackle your UFO pile

You don’t really know what you have until you make yourself an inventory! Giving your sewing space a good cleaning is the perfect time to start your list of UFOs. While you are cleaning, you can also check out my tips on organizing your fabric! But, back to our UFO’s…Some people consider purchased fabric for a pattern a UFO, while others consider cut or sewn fabric a UFO. Whichever camp you fall into, it’s best to compile all these projects into one list. You may surprise yourself once your list is finished! You are one step closer to tackle your UFO pile!

Organize your projects!

Once you’ve organized your list you might as well label and contain these projects in a way that makes them easy to identify and to find. I love these storage bins and this label maker for just this purpose! The bins are nice sized and stack very neatly. I also love my label maker. I use it for lots more than just labeling my bins. I’m sure you can think of loads of things that need a label! Be sure to order some extra label tape. I need to remember to reorder some soon!

Plan your finishes!

Now that you have your projects identified, listed out and organized – the only thing we have left to do is to finish them! Finishing a project can sometimes be the most challenging step in the process! Whether you just need to find the perfect backing for a quilt or you just need to send your finished quilt top to the longarmer – make a plan to get it done! When I made my UFO inventory, I also gave myself some suggested deadlines for each project. Once you set a timeline for things, they are more likely to get done! Make a practice of checking your UFO list each week and see if you can take small steps on just one or more projects and you might be amazed at the progress you can make on your whole list! Finishing is my favorite way to tackle your UFO pile!

Make an adoption plan!

Sometimes, we just fall out of love with our projects. Sad, but true. Do you have orphaned projects in your UFO pile that deserve to be finished? Don’t have the energy, inclination or passion to give them the life they deserve? It’s time to put that project up for adoption! My local quilt guild recently helped it’s members with a way to let go of UFO’s that had no hopes of getting finished. We called it The Orphaned Project. We were instructed to prepare our projects (gather all the materials and the pattern, bag it and label it). At the meeting, a committee member would check in the UFO and then the UFO orphan projects were displayed on a table. Members would browse the adoption table and claim a project with the challenge to finish it within the next six months! Such a wonderful way to bring new life to an otherwise forgotten gem.

So, what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to get your sewing and quilting life organized! In an effort to help you accomplish your goals, I’ve created a FREE Printable for your UFO list! This is the perfect page to capture your projects and help you stay on track!

Once you get your UFO list filled out, be sure to share it on my Facebook Group. Let’s cheer each other on as we knock out our UFO’s! Yay!

Happy Finishing!

How to Gift a Handmade Quilt

December 18, 2019December 19, 20194 Comments

So you want to gift a handmade quilt. Wow! You’ve just spent a lot of time (and probably a lot of money) making a quilt. Whoever is receiving this quilt is extremely fortunate! Gifting a handmade quilt is like giving someone a hug that keeps on hugging them. Did you know that some people don’t even own a quilt? They have blankets (which we know are NOT the same as quilts). These new quilt owners should definitely appreciate their new quilt, but they probably don’t know how to care for it or use it. Some folks think they need to store it away so nothing ever happens to it while others might throw it in the back of the car for a day at the beach. Whatever the case, I’ve come up with a few things to consider telling folks who receive your handmade quilt.

USE THAT QUILT!

One of the reasons we gift a handmade quilt is so that our loved ones will use it! There are lots of ways to use a new quilt! Unless the quilt is an antique family heirloom – we should encourage folks to USE THAT QUILT! Here are a few common examples of how to use your new quilt.

- Lay that new quilt on a couch or chair
  - This is especially great for seasonal quilts and for curling up with a book (or in my case – my Quilter’s Planner)
- Show it off by using on a bed
  - It is so great when handmade quilts coordinate with existing decor
- Bring it in the car
  - Tshirt quilts and lap-sized quilts are great for this!

Wash it, sometimes

Quilt owners may consider spot cleaning their quilt (unless it definitely needs a complete submersion). We typically wash our bed quilts just a couple of times a year (maybe more for the teenager’s beds – LOL).

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

- Be sure to use mild soap in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
  - I can recommend this mild detergent.
    - You can gift them a bit of soap in this container and let them know that it only takes a small amount for a single washing.
  - Be sure to have them only use cold water when washing a handmade quilt.
  - It is always nice to include a color catcher and give them instructions on how to use a color catcher. If you use quality fabric in your quilt – you should have minimal color bleeding. That’s why I love the fabric in my online shop – It’s of the highest quality and has never bled out!
  - Can you put a handmade quilt in the dryer? You may want to give them special instructions if your quilt has lots of applique or embellishments that might be hindered with a tumble in the dryer.
    - I put lots of my finished quilts into the dryer to get that wonderful crinkle effect, while others I like to dry outside in the open air. You can decide which is best for your particular quilt. I would recommend using the LOW HEAT setting if you decide to use the dryer with your washed quilt.

Add a quilt label

When we gift a handmade quilt, we want the recipient to remember some of the important details of their new quilt! Creating and attaching a quilt label is a great way to do this!

- Check out this custom embroidered label offering from Silver Lining Quilts.
- Things to add to your label
  - Give yourself some credit and help folks remember where this labor of love came from! Your quilt recipient will thank you for it!
  - It’s a good idea to mention who the quilt is for (even though it might seem obvious at the time)
  - Put a date on it for posterity sake!
  - If the quilt was made for a special occasion – go ahead and mention that as well!

Give them printed instructions!

I have created a PDF Printable Document that you can use in your greeting card or print it on cardstock and make it your primary card! There are several occasions to choose from!

These PDF Printable Documents explain the most important things for a new quilt owner to know about their handmade quilt! Use these instructions when gifting your handmade quilt and help those new quilt owners be confident with their new quilt!

I hope you make lots of quilts for gifting this year! Nothing gives us more joy than spreading the love of a handmade quilt! Be sure to share your finished projects in my Facebook Group! We love to see what you’ve been working on!

Happy Quilting!

How to make a Mini Boxy Pouch

December 11, 2019December 11, 20192 Comments

I just love these little, quick projects! Using common items, found in your sewing studio, you can make a quick and easy Mini Boxy Pouch! These are perfect to attach to a keychain, backpack or to your existing purse hardware! Let me show you how I make these and don’t forget to watch my video tutorial too!

To get your cutting measurements, you have a couple of choices:

Option 1: Download for free

(PS – if you have trouble finding the instructions as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase the cutting instructions

Use this link to purchase the cutting instructions.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

Mini Boxy Pouch SUPPLY LIST

Cutting Measurements
Qty (1) scrap of fabric for the exterior
Qty (1) scrap of fabric for the interior & the clasp holder
Qty (1) piece of double-sided fusible foam (here is a good online option)
Qty (1) piece of woven interfacing
Qty (1) Zipper (see cutting instructions for zipper length)
Qty (1) 1/2 inch swivel lobster clasp
Qty (1) Pull Tab (I used a custom tag)
- get 15% off your custom label from Dutch Label Shop (Coupon Code: sewmuchmoore15)

Basic Sewing Supplies Needed

Sewing Machine with a zipper foot and regular presser foot
Thread
- For Domestic Sewing Machines, I would recommend this thread
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I use this brand – 45mm)
Acrylic Ruler (I like this brand)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I recommend this rotating mat – it’s amazing!)
Clover Wonder Clips
Fray Check
Marking Pen (I like to use my Frixion Pen)
Sharp Scissors (I love this pair)
Iron & Ironing Board (this one is on my wish list)

Mini Boxy Pouch ASSEMBLY

Cut and fuse all fabrics, according to your cutting directions. Align and clip your zipper, right side facing the right side of your first fabric panel. Make sure your zipper head is facing the fabric. Using your zipper foot attachment, sew the zipper tape to the panel. Fold-down the zipper tape to the back of the fabric panel and secure it with a line of stitches. Align the other side of your panel to the top of zipper tape and clip in place. Sew your second fabric panel to the zipper tape. Fold-down the zipper tape to the back of the fabric panel and secure it with a line of stitches. While your project is still inside out, unzip your zipper about halfway. Fold the sewn fabric panels ends so that the center of the bottom is in the middle and the zipper is aligned on top of that. Align and secure the raw edges together and insert the pull tab on the closed zipper end. Repeat that step for the other side (except insert the lobster clasp and tab on this end) and sew the raw edges closed.

Taking your boxing template, draw cut lines on all four corners of the project. Using your sharp fabric scissors (these are the BEST scissors), cut out the corners. Trim off the excess zipper tape. Align the handle in the middle of the boxed corner. Use clips to secure. Repeat for the other end of the handle. Sew these edges closed. Make sure you backstitch at the beginning and end of each side. It is also a good idea to backstitch the handle area as well since this is a high use area. Repeat on the other side of the bag. Turn your finished exterior bag right side out.

watch my VIDEO TUTORIAL

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE a video tutorial as well! Check out my YouTube video which explains how to make my Mini Boxy Pouch!

As I mentioned, these mini boxy pouches make excellent gifts. You can store earbuds, folded money, chapstick/lipstick and all sorts of small items in there! What will you use yours for? Tell me in the comments below!

Happy Sewing!

Pinetree Forest Quilt Block

December 5, 2019December 19, 20192 Comments

Have you ever needed a quilt block that wasn’t quite Holiday specific, but still works throughout the entire winter season? This is what I love about the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block! Let me tell you about this versatile foundation paper pieced pattern so you can make one (or several) for yourself and others!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

MATERIALS LIST

Pinetree Forest Quilt Block Pattern
- If you are a subscriber, you can get a coupon for this pattern. Learn more right HERE.
Various fabrics for the three trees
- I used Mint, Old Green and Wasabi
Background fabric
- I used Linen
Tree trunk fabric
- I used Old Gold
Ground fabric
- - I used Yarrow

SUPPLY LIST

Sewing Machine (here are some machines I recommend)
Cotton Thread (I have a recurring order for this thread – I love it!)
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I used this smaller cutter on this project)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I used this cutting mat on this project)
Iron & Ironing Board (I’m currently using this brand of iron)
Add-A-Quarter Acrylic Ruler (this is the BEST ruler for foundation paper piecing)
Foundation Paper for the pattern (I use this paper – it sews and tears away easily)
Sewline Glue Pen (this is handy for larger pieces and for your starting piece as well)
(Optional) Violet Craft Roller – I like to use this instead of using the iron sometimes.

Making the Quilt Block

The construction of this quilt block is pretty straight forward and can be easily accomplished by the confident beginner. If you have never tried foundation paper piecing before, I recommend watching my YouTube video to help you understand the basics of this technique. You can also try your hand at this simple pattern to get your feet wet.

The Pinetree Forest Quilt Block pattern includes a Coloring Page, which is useful to help you determine what colors you like and also to help you keep track of which fabric to use for which piece. I like to attach my tree fabrics to each tree to help me remember which color I am using for each Pinetree.

The pattern is sectioned into 5 “strips” for easy assembly. I highly recommend printing your pattern on special paper and also using the Add-A-Quarter Acrylic Ruler. These two products will make quick and accurate work of any foundation paper pieced project!

Once you have your sections trimmed, you simply sew each section together. I have found that leaving the paper on for the section assembly will help to keep your pieces properly aligned.

Finishing the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block

Once you’ve completed the assembly of your Pinetree Forest Quilt Block – the sky is the limit on how you want to use it! You can make several to create a table runner or make several more to make your own quilt top! I will probably make a few more of these and use them as the focal points of some throw pillows on my living room couch! I can leave them out until it’s time to decorate for Valentine’s Day!

Remember – if you sign up for my Newsletter, you can get a coupon code for this Quilt Block Pattern. Don’t worry – If you are already a subscriber – you won’t get double emails. What are you waiting for? Get your coupon code right HERE! I hope you enjoy making the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block!

Happy Quilting!

2019 Quilters Gift Guide

November 27, 2019November 29, 20193 Comments

As Quilter’s and Sewists, we love to have all the latest tools and techniques to keep us evolving and creating! I’ve been a quilter and sewist for some time now and have worked in and around the industry long enough to see many of the newest and latest trends & notions on the market. I have divided this Quilters Gift Guide into several categories. Whether you are looking for Quilt Pattern, Notions, Equipment or simply some inspiration – There is a little bit of everything for every Creative Person. Let’s dive right in!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

My Favorite cutting supplies

I have a few rulers that I use every day! They are my go-to rulers and I love them. These rulers are the perfect size for my everyday tasks and I find the markings on them to be very helpful. Let me show my top three rulers!

Omnigrid Small Marking Ruler

This ruler is my everyday sidekick. I use it for lots of different things. I like it because it is small and compact enough to fit into my Sew Together Bag. I take it with me on retreats and use it every day. I love that it even has the 1/8″ markings, which are perfect for some of the precision measurements I need. I use it for joining fabric strips when making binding or sashing and I use this to help make the ID window for my ID Wallets. I would not be content without my Omnigrid Small Marking Ruler!

Omnigrid Value Pack

This Omnigrid ruler set contains one each of 3 Omnigrid quilting rulers (1×6″ and 6×12″, 4×8″ with grid) to execute a variety of measurements. The markings on the ruler are what you can expect from this brand. Not only does it have markings for 1/8″, but it also has your common angle markings. There are 30, 45 & 60 degree angles marked which are helpful for making certain quilt blocks or bias binding. I love the larger rulers when making Quilt Blocks because the size is convenient and the markings are easy to understand. I add True Grip stickers to the back of my rulers. These help the rulers stay in place and they don’t obscure the markings.

Omnigrid 6″ x 24″

This ruler is a must if you are cutting fabric yardage. I love the length of this 6″ x 24″ Omnigrid ruler. I find that this ruler is perfect because it is less likely to slide around the fabric. I also attach True Grip stickers to the back of this ruler to ensure the ruler does not slide while cutting.

Olfa Rotary Cutters

There are many different brands of rotary cutters on the market and the Olfa brand is definitely my favorite! There are many colors and sizes available. I use the Olfa Rotary Cutter 45mm size for cutting most of my fabric to size and then use my Olfa Rotary Cutter size 28mm for all my precision cutting.

45mm Olfa Rotary Cutter – Splash

Olfa Rotary Cutter 28mm

Rotary Cutter Case

This Omnigrid Rotary Cutter Hard Shell Zip Around Case is perfect to carry your rotary cutters and spare blades! Check it out right HERE!

Rotating Cutting Mat

I’ve had my 17″ Rotating Cutting Mat for 4 years now. I use it ALL the time! This 2-piece mat has a non-slip bottom layer with interlocking green top cutting mat, yellow grid lines and markings, that rotates 360 degrees smoothly. I love the Self-healing finish, which reseals surface cuts and provides a continually smooth surface for all my cutting projects. I am sure to store my mat flat and out of direct sunlight. You can also get 12″ Rotating Cutting Mat as well! I even have a smaller 6″ rotating cutting mat – super handy for the work at your machine!

Cricut Maker

I used to own a Cricut machine, when I was really into scrapbooking. I loved it and used it all the time! Since I transitioned to sewing and quilting, my tools and supplies were just sitting in storage. My inks and markers were drying out and it was just a shame to have it sit there and not being used. So, I decided to donate my machine (and most of my supplies) to someone who could use it. My friend came over and took most of it, including my circuit machine, all my cartridges.

Fast forward 7 years and now there is a Circuit for fabric lovers (The Cricut Maker) and I am really excited about it! I’ve told Santa that I would like the Circuit Maker for my gift this year. While I’m not sure I will get it (even though I’ve been a very good girl this year) – a girl can dream!!!

Black Friday deals will be available from Cricut! Save up to 40% off Machines with Cricut’s Holiday Sale! Starting 11/29, Spend $50 and get a $10 coupon or Spend $100 and get a $25 coupon. Cricut.com is also offering Free Economy Shipping on orders $100+.

Must-Have Notions!

Recently, I’ve been searching for and using unique tools and notions that can make my sewing life easier. I found a few you might love too! I’m a strong believer in making sewing and quilting as efficient as possible by using useful tools. This is why I’ve gathered a list of notions that can speed up your sewing and help you give your project that professional final touch.

Spray Bottle Mister

These are perfect to keep your water and liquid starch! I use this set for just that! One for water and the other for Best Press.

Mini Project Oliso Iron

This iron is one of the newest travel irons on the market and I’m so excited about the Holiday price! Head over to the website and pick from either Yellow or Pink!

“Sashers”- Bias Tape Acrylic Templates

These little acrylic templates are just what you need to make a variety of sizes of bias tape. Check out the video on how these work and get a set for yourself! Talk about a time saver!

“Sashers” – Acrylic template set for making your own bindings! Check these out right HERE!

Wool Pressing Mats

My friend, Jan, has really corned the market with her Wool Pressing Mat offerings. Not only does she offer some standard sizes – but she can also cut these to your specific needs. I am still using my wool mat that I bought from her almost 2 years ago!!! Check her out right HERE!

Wool Pressing Mats – In a variety of sizes! Check them out right HERE!

Clover Wonder Clips

We all know that these are not a new item, but boy oh boy are they a MUST HAVE! I don’t know about your wonder clips, but mine eventually grow legs and walk out of my sewing studio! I keep these on my favorites list to restock whenever my clip supply gets too low.

Bobbin Storage

Having a bobbin storage bin is a great way to keep your bobbins organized. I love these little clear cases for bobbin storage! They fit my bobbins perfectly and I can still see what colors I have already wound. I have 3 of these and may need to order a fourth. I even use one of these to hold my size M bobbins for my Industrial Sewing Machine bobbins. These make great stocking stuffers too!

Comic Book Boards

You may wonder what Comic Book Boards have to do with Sewing and Quilting Notions, and I don’t blame you! It wasn’t until I started using these to organize my fabric that I realized how wonderful these simple things can be! Head over to my blog post to learn more about using these handy boards to help you organize your stash!

Show me the Fabric!

We all have our favorite Fabric Designers and Fabric lines. I love the quilting and sewing industry because you can always be sure to find new and exciting fabrics each season! 2019 was full of some amazing Designers and Collections. I love to keep up-to-date with these new products by following my favorite brands. Here are a few of my favorites from 2019!

Cotton & Steel – Noel

Merriment by Gingiber

Little Tree by Lella Boutique

Just for fun!

I attend lots of Sew Days and Quilting Retreats. I love to “Dress the Part” by wearing fun Quilty shirts and accessories! These are some of my Favorites!

Tshirt by Stately Type – I Quilt Past My Bedtime

Sewing Heartbeat EKG Vneck T-shirt

Enamel Pins

Check out the variety of Enamel Pins – RIGHT HERE

Time Flies when your Sewing!

There are only a few of these remaining! The scissors are a pendulum. Check this out RIGHT HERE!

Over the door Ironing Board

This over the door ironing station is perfect if you want to maximize your sewing space! Check it out RIGHT HERE!

Knowledge is Power!

Our friend, Benjamin Franklin, said it best, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”. I could not agree more! Kansas City is fortunate to have a very active Guild that offers a variety of classes and learning opportunities. I strongly recommend you join a local Guild! Check the Modern Quilt Guild website to see if there is a local chapter near you! Having a fellowship of people who enjoy the same thing is an invaluable gift indeed! While taking classes in-person is always best, you can also consider some online training. I think that Blueprint is a great format for online learning!

Get making with Black Friday Savings!

Black Friday Deals on Now: Up to 70% Off EVERYTHING! Plus, shop the best doorbusters for your craft.

Start your 7-Day Free Bluprint Trial at myBluprint.com now!

Wonderful Patterns

Let’s face it – there are a TON of patterns out there! It can be a little intimidating and overwhelming to choose a pattern that you will want to start AND finish! Here are a few patterns that I have tried (and loved) which made my list of favorites for 2019:

Posh Santa

This quilt is on my “Need to Make” list for 2019! This pattern is from one of my favorite pattern designers – Sew Kind of Wonderful! You will use the Quick Curve Ruler Mini to make this quilt.

Say hello to Posh Santa! Such a great wall hanging pattern! Just the right size for an easy weekend holiday project. He would make a great door quilt to greet all the holiday guests.

Starburst Quilt

I completed the Starburst Quilt for a local Modern Quilt Show and I just loved the pattern that Jenifer Dick wrote! This pattern is included in her book called The Nine Patch Revolution. My version used a couple of fewer blocks than the original pattern. I just love it! You need to check out this book! So many awesome projects! Popular pattern designer Jenifer Dick and expert quilter Angela Walters have teamed up to provide 20 modern, diverse projects reinterpreting the Nine-Patch block. Nine-patches are easy to piece, aesthetically pleasing, and versatile, making it an ideal beginner’s block, but also a favorite of more experienced quilters. Projects use a wide variety of techniques, from basic piecing and improv to paper piecing and wonky piecing. Each project includes detailed, step-by-step instructions for piecing plus quilting! I finished this quilt for a Quilt Challenge and Quilt Show that our local Modern Quilt Guild held. Be sure to use the Add-A-Quarter Ruler and also some Carol Doak’s Foundation Paper for Foundation Paper piecing! These little tools really help with this or any foundation paper pieced project!

Hashtag Quilt

The Hashtag Quilt was a fun and surprisingly simple quilt to make! This quilt definitely makes a statement! I found the Stripology ruler to be a MAJOR time saver for this quilt! So many cuts of the same size! I also highly recommend that you use a 1/4″ quilting foot (be sure you get the right one – tons of choices for different machine shafts). There is tons and tons of chain piecing, so be sure to wind lots of bobbins too – or you can cheat and get the pre-loaded bobbins. I won’t tell – hehe! To learn how to make your own Hashtag Quilt – click HERE.

Whew! I wish I could have included more Favorites! It’s really difficult to only list a few! What do you love that I left out? Comment below and let everyone know!

Happy Sewing and Quilting and I hope you all get what you want for the Holidays! (even if we have to buy it for ourselves)

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Christmas Table Runners!

November 14, 2019November 21, 20192 Comments

At a recent group sewing event, we learned how to make a wonderful Christmas Table Runner with a Half Hexagon template. One of us saw the online tutorial that Jenny, with MSQC, put together and we were hooked! These came together so simply and I find myself looking forward to making more. These are such a fun and simple project! I just loved making one, so I had to make several more!

I used to sell these table runners in my Etsy shop, and they were very popular! These also make a really great gift! Let me tell you all the things you will need to make your own Christmas Table Runner (and the list is very short – Yay)

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Table Runner – SUPPLIES LIST

Several 10″ x 10″ pieces of Christmas Fabric
- You can use a fun Christmas Layer Cake
Several 10″ x 10″ pieces of Background Fabric
- I often have a white or neutral Layer Cake to use
Thread (I recommend using a 50 wt thread for piecing)
Large Half Hexagon Acrylic Ruler
Star Paper Template
Batting
Border & Backing Fabric
Binding Fabric – Try this fun striped binding! Super-Cute!

Christmas Table Runner – TOOLS NEEDED

Sewing Machine
- If you are looking for a new machine, here are my recommendations
Cutting Mat & Rotary Cutter
- I love this rotating Rotary Cutter!
- You need this Rotating Cutting Mat – please Santa???!!?
iron and ironing board (I just love my Wool Ironing Mat!)

Choosing and cutting your fabric, from your layer cake, is really fun! You can usually find duplicates in each layer cake. One 10″ square will yield (2) half hexagons.

Check out Jenny’s tutorial to see how easy this Christmas Table Runner is to make!

Jenny’s Half Hexagon Template works really well for the Layer Cakes, but if you wanted to use your existing Christmas yardage, you can use any type of half hexagon template. Amazon has a pretty decent selection of Half Hexagon Templates as well.

I hope you have lots of fun making these Christmas Table Runners!

Happy Stitches!

Making a Handmade Christmas

November 7, 2019November 7, 201949 Comments

It’s never too early to start sewing and quilting for Christmas! As makers, we are always thinking of ways to share our Handmade gifts with those we love. Making a Handmade Christmas is the perfect way to show someone you care! You can make a small, cherished mug rug, or even an entire quilt! The choice is yours! And talk about choices! There are so many! I recently went on an online scavenger hunt for some tried and true Handmade Christmas ideas and patterns. I am super excited to share this collection of gems with you! This collection of patterns is super amazing and sure to get you into the Holiday Spirit!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

Handmade Christmas – Foundation Paper Piecing

These patterns are fun and simple. If you’ve ever tried foundation paper piecing, you will know how great these projects can be! Not only do they turn out PERFECT, but they can also be added to other blocks to make a larger project! I just loved these different patterns:

Christmas Gnome Paper Pieced Pattern

Gnome FPP Pattern - Check out this collection of fun and exciting patterns! Get started on your own Handmade Christmas! #Pattern #Printables #Quilts #Pillows #Easy #Templates #ForBeginners #Beginner #Art #Design #ArtDesign #Block #ChristmasQuilt #ForBeginners #quilt #Quilts #Quilting #ideas #modern #ToMake #Simple #Blocks #Tutorial #quilting #sewing #handmade #Project #Patchwork #Contemporary #WalkingFoot #DIY #Fabric #Bedding #OfTheMonth #12” #Vintage #Modern #Star #Scrappy #Free #Quick #project #DIY #Sampler #Ideas #Basic #HST #12Inch #StepByStep #QuiltBlock #BOM #SewMuchMoore #SewMuchMooreInStore

The Christmas Gnome pattern is an intermediate to advanced FPP pattern that assumes a basic knowledge of paper piecing. The pattern is clearly labeled, has colored graphics, and full size pattern pieces with a 1/4″ seam allowance included.

Geometric Christmas Tree FPP Pattern

Geometric Christmas Tree - Check out this collection of fun and exciting patterns! Get started on your own Handmade Christmas! #Pattern #Printables #Quilts #Pillows #Easy #Templates #ForBeginners #Beginner #Art #Design #ArtDesign #Block #ChristmasQuilt #ForBeginners #quilt #Quilts #Quilting #ideas #modern #ToMake #Simple #Blocks #Tutorial #quilting #sewing #handmade #Project #Patchwork #Contemporary #WalkingFoot #DIY #Fabric #Bedding #OfTheMonth #12” #Vintage #Modern #Star #Scrappy #Free #Quick #project #DIY #Sampler #Ideas #Basic #HST #12Inch #StepByStep #QuiltBlock #BOM #SewMuchMoore #SewMuchMooreInStore

Geometric Christmas Tree Foundation Paper Pieced (FPP) PDF Pattern Block finishes at 6″ x 6″ Basic knowledge of FPP is expected for this pattern – however – the Geometric Christmas Tree is a very simple pattern and perfect for beginners! The pattern is labeled clearly and includes a 1/4″ seam allowance plus a few tips to get you going.

Christmas Tree Quilt Block Pattern

Christmas Tree Quilt Block Pattern by Joe June and Mae. Check out all their patterns! They are so cute!

Handmade Christmas – Gifts for Everyone!

If you are like me, you have a list of loved ones that you would like to make gifts for Christmas! It’s so hard to pick and choose who gets handmade, so maybe we should try some smaller projects? Mug Rugs, Table Runners, Hot Pads and Child’s Aprons are PERFECT quick projects! Give these to your friends, neighbors, teachers, stylist (the list goes on and on)… Here are a few ideas that should get your creative juices flowing!

Deer w/ Antlers Mug Rug

Deer with Antlers Mug Rug - Check out this collection of fun and exciting patterns! Get started on your own Handmade Christmas! #Pattern #Printables #Quilts #Pillows #Easy #Templates #ForBeginners #Beginner #Art #Design #ArtDesign #Block #ChristmasQuilt #ForBeginners #quilt #Quilts #Quilting #ideas #modern #ToMake #Simple #Blocks #Tutorial #quilting #sewing #handmade #Project #Patchwork #Contemporary #WalkingFoot #DIY #Fabric #Bedding #OfTheMonth #12” #Vintage #Modern #Star #Scrappy #Free #Quick #project #DIY #Sampler #Ideas #Basic #HST #12Inch #StepByStep #QuiltBlock #BOM #SewMuchMoore #SewMuchMooreInStore

Who needs a Christmas tree when there are such wonderful antlers to be had? Imagine a whole herd of reindeer dressed in their best stockings and baubles. But don’t just imagine it -create this wonderful scene with this quick and easy Christmas mug rug pattern from the Patchsmith.

Snowman Table Runner PDF Pattern

Digital Snowman Table Runner Pattern by Patterns by Vicki.

Child’s Christmas Apron

Children’s Christmas Apron Sewing Pattern. There is also a BONUS Snowman Apron Pattern as well! Super Cute!

Handmade Christmas – Who is “Quilt Worthy”?

Let’s face it – not everyone is “Quilt Worthy”! We all know how much work goes into making a quilt! Quilts take lots and lots of time and a whole lot of supplies! I mean, the fabric isn’t cheap!! So, if you have a loved one that you want to make a Christmas quilt for, I have some fun recommendations for you! Some are smaller Mini Quilts (which make a really pretty table or wall decor) and some are full-blown Quilts! I found a fun patchwork project and a few improv patterns as well. Let me show you my favorites!

Geese in the Forest Quilt Pattern

Pattern by Twiddle Tails. This quilt consists of 6 different foundation pieced blocks.
The pattern includes the numbered foundation piecing diagrams for all blocks in the quilt, as well as a layout diagram.

Snowflake Quilt Pattern

Snowflake Quilt is the designer’s take on a modern and minimal winter quilt. There are two ways to assemble this quilt. You can follow along with the larger block assembly style on the 1-color or 4-color version or stay simple with the square and HST scrappy version.

Modern Christmas Tree Quilt

Check out my finished Modern Christmas Tree Quilt. I grabbed some coordinating fabric prints and also traded with fellow quilters. Isn’t it fun? Super easy too!

Well, I’m pretty excited about this year’s Handmade Christmas possibilities! I already have my fabric purchased for my Swell Christmas Quilt. I even bought extra coordinating solids and now sell this in my online fabric shop!

And to get us into the Holiday Spirit – I am hosting a giveaway for this fantastic Fat Quarter Bundle of Painter’s Pallet Solids! Just leave a comment below on what you are sewing or quilting for Christmas to enter! For an additional entry, be sure to head over to my Instagram post for more details!

I hope you find this collection of ideas inspiring as well! Now, let’s get to work and start making a fabulous handmade Christmas!

Happy Stitches!

Check out these Seasonal Posts!

Christmas Table Runners!

DIY Fabric Napkins

Make a Bella Strega Wall Quilt

October 30, 2019October 30, 20195 Comments

In case you didn’t know….Bella Strega means “Good Witch” in Italian. After taking a local class on the Bella Strega Quilt Pattern, I knew I had to share this project with you all. I first saw this done at a local Show & Tell for the Kansas City Modern Quilt Guild. The project was done by a new member, Angel, and I was complete captivated! I kept saying, “that is amazing! I need to make one of those!” A year went by and our Schoolhouse Chair organized a workshop. I was the FIRST to signup for the sold out class. The project took one day (I cheated and sewed together my background before class). I quilted it up the next weekend and had it ready in time for Halloween! Let me show some of the details and also some inspiration so you might want to make a Bella Strega Wall Quilt of your own!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. 🙂 Read my full disclosure policy here.

Bella Strega – Materials List

Bella Strega Quilt Pattern – pattern by Laurie Ceesay Landree
Fabric (Forty 5″ squares) I am linking the fabrics I used below:
- Burnt Sienna (Painters Palette #121-127) for the hair
- Cumin (Painters Palette #121-130) for some of the background
- Yarrow (Painters Palette #121-140) for a majority of the background
- Old Gold (Painters Palette #121-056) for most of the hat
- Wasabi (Painters Palette #121-061) for her face
- Scrap of White for the eye
- Tootsie (Painters Palette #121-129) for the outline
- 1 yd fusible web (I used Misty Fuse)
  - You will also need to use Baking Parchment Paper if you use Misty Fuse
  - I will also recommend a telfon sheet.
- 3/4 yd backing fabric
- Low Loft Batting
- Thread to match the outline and also thread for quilting
  - I used a matching 50 wt Aurifil for the outline
  - I used Aurifil Monofilament for quilting the background

Supply List

Sewing Machine
Quarter Inch foot for your sewing machine (you will use this for piecing the background together)
- Here is a Low Shank Option
- Here is a High Shank Option
Tracing surface
- I highly recommend the CutterPillar Glow Ultra.
Pencil or marking tool for tracing
Scissors for paper fused fabric
Sewing Pins or Wonder Clips
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade
Acrylic Ruler
Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat (the spinning mats are ideal)
Iron & Ironing Board
Pressing Mat (to prevent the Fusible webbing from sticking to your iron or ironing board)
Optional embellishments like sequence, buttons or fabric paint.

Tracing the pattern

This tracing pattern is based upon original line drawings, by Laurie Ceesay Landree. These drawings are meant to be traced, fused to fabric, and then cut. If you already have a light box, then go ahead and use that for tracing your pattern. You can also use a sunny window. I had the opportunity to try out a CutterPillar LightPad and can’t tell you enough good things about this product! This lightpad has 3 settings for brightness and never gets hot to the touch. Each size option comes with a see-through cutting surface, which also makes this product ideal for fussy cutting and foundation paper piecing.

Below is a picture of our workshop instructor, Angel, as she is tracing a student’s project. Since I used Parchment Paper and Misty Fuse, I traced the drawing onto the paper first. I was careful to include the name of each piece so that I wouldn’t get confused. Then, I sandwiched the Misty Fuse between the paper and the fabric and used my hot iron to adhere the fusible webbing to my fabric. This was the perfect time to use my Teflon sheet and ensure that I don’t get the fusible web on anything (like my hot iron or pressing mat).

Using Misty Fuse

A good friend of mine introduced me to Misty Fuse. I met the owner of Misty Fuse, Iris, at a Regional Quilt Festival and was anxious to see what all the buzz was about. In the past, I had used stiffer fusible products and my needle always gummed up when I sewed my project together. Check out this video introduction on Misty Fuse and try some on your next project!

Line Drawing assembly

The Bella Strega pattern includes an assembly diagram, so it goes together nicely. Once all the pieces are situated, then they just get pressed onto the background with a hot iron. The image below shows my outline fabric on my background patchwork. This is how far I got in the workshop. I carefully rolled up my project and took it home for quilting.

finishing touches

Now that the top was finished, I just needed to decide on my quilting design and how I wanted to finish the project. I used my Juki Miyabi 350 QVP to quilt the outline and the background. Since my Longarm allows me to freely move my project under the needle, I was able to easily stitch the outline fabric in place. Once I had the outline secured, I decided on a few different quilting techniques to finish the quilt. I used Free Motion Quilting in the hair and the hat. For the rest of the background, and the face/neck, I used a Non-Slip ruler to make lines and cross-hatching. I finished the quilt with some flange binding. What do you think?

The Bella Strega Schoolhouse was definitely a success! The pattern designed mentioned that she had never seen a Bella Strega done in solid fabrics before (everyone has made them with a variety of prints). I think they all look marvelous! Look at all these beautiful witches!

I hope you decide to try one of Laurie Ceesay Landree’s patterns. She has many great patterns to choose from! I bought the Winter Bella pattern and will be trying that one next! Be sure to share your progress or completed project in my Facebook Group and don’t forget to check out my fabric shop for some excellent fabric options!

Happy Quilting!

Check out these Quilty related posts!

Maple Leaf Quilt Block

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall!