Making a Handmade Christmas

November 7, 2019November 7, 201947 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!

DIY Fabric Pennant Banners

October 16, 2019October 16, 20198 Comments

I love to decorate my home! Whether the decorations are store-bought or handmade, there is a great amount of satisfaction in making my home beautiful. Since being blessed with the love of sewing, I prefer to make my own home decor, if possible. Making some DIY fabric pennant banners took my home decor to a whole new level! I was able to create seasonal decor with ease, decorate for a birthday party and even have some swanky ambiance for our NYE celebration! Once you try these DIY fabric pennant banners – you will want to make more and more! Let me show you how it’s done!

First – you need to get your FREE Pennant Template. Click HERE and I will email this to you!

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

DIY Fabric Pennant Banner Supply List

Pennant Template (get your free template here)
Coordinating fabric
Double Fold Bias Tape

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

DIY fabric pennant banner tutorial

Iron your fabrics nice and flat. Print out your Pennant Template and lay this over a few pieces of fabric and cut these out. Cut out as many pennants as you will need. I love using Fat Quarter Bundles for this project because the fabrics are already coordinated!

Because these pennants are double-sided, you will decide which fabric will be on the front and on the back. Place your cut fabric RST (right sides together) and sew along the 2 long sides of the triangle (leaving the short side open for turning). Repeat this step for each pennant in your banner.

Next, you will turn each pennant right side out and get the tip of your pennant to a point. I have found using a Purple Thang is the perfect tool to get these pesky points out! Do this for each pennant and then press any wrinkles out.

Once you have your pennants pressed out, you will take your Double Sided Bias Tape and situate this along the open raw edge of each pennant. Enclose the raw edges with the bias tape. Use pins or Wonder Clips to situate each pennant placement before you sew these in place.

That’s it! Easy Peasy!

Even our cat, Sox, loved it!

This project is an easy sew and the perfect project to help take your home or party decor to the next level. Most noteworthy is how you can make these banners for seasonal decorations and then pack them away for the next year. Consider making these for a great Baby Shower gift! Because these are so simple to make, you can even make these for graduation parties! The possibilities are amazing! Get your free Pennant Template and make DIY Fabric Pennant Banners today!

Happy Sewing!

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How to Install Metal Bag Labels

October 9, 2019October 9, 2019Leave a comment

Installing metal bag labels into your handmade totes, purses, wallets or bags is one of the easiest additions you can bring to your custom items. This additional bit of hardware can really set your handmade items apart and help people take notice of all your hard work! These metal bag labels come in a variety of finishes to compliment your fabric and even the rest of your hardware. Let me show you all the options for this wonderful hardware and don’t forget to watch the video tutorial so you can see how easy it is to install your own metal tags!

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

Metal bag label Supply List

Metal Bag Label
- (Check out all the different finishes right HERE)
Leather Punch
Marking tool
- (I just used a permanent marker)
Fray Check
- (you should only need this if using cotton, canvas or knit fabric)
Tiny Screwdriver
- The magnetic screwdrivers work best (Like this one)

Installing your Metal Bag Label

Deciding which hardware finish to use on your handmade bag is really fun! I like to try to match all my hardware. If I am using a metal zipper, then I try to match the teeth on the zipper. If I am using Swivel Snap Hooks or Adjustable Sliders, then I will try to match those as well. I think a nice bag or purse will have all matching hardware finish. If you don’t have any other hardware on your bag or wallet, you can always determine which hardware finish would most complement your handmade item.

For this tutorial, I am using a piece of Cork Fabric that is interfaced with foam and SF101 (Shape-flex). Your Metal Bag Label comes in a variety of finishes. This hardware comes with 2 screws and a stabilizing bracket. Have a marking utensil handy as well as a small Phillips head screwdriver.

I recommend using a Leather Punch.

This Leather Punch has an adjustable head so you can ensure the hole you make is the right size for your project. Take a moment to compare the size of the hole, on the back of the Metal Bag Label, to the size of the hole on the Leather Punch. The holes on the back of the Metal Bag Label are not horizontally aligned. One side is higher than the other side. This means we need to pay close attention to where we punch holes to install our Metal Bag Label.

Take your Metal Bag Label and press down to make an indent in your project. Use your marking utensil to denote where the holes need to be punched. Use your Leather Punch to make your holes in the front of your project and also on the back. Remove any access materials that might be in the way of the screw.

Align the Metal Bag Label with the holes that you just made and attach the stabilizing bracket. PRO TIP! If your project is either Cotton or Canvas, I recommend using Frey Check! Install the screws with a tiny Phillips head screwdriver.

Pictured below is the front of my Ethel Bag. This is a free sewing pattern by Swoon and super easy to make.

Once you have chosen your hardware finish, you just need to install your hardware! It is important to do this before you assemble your bag. I usually install the Metal Bag Label when I am done adding the interfacing to a panel.

Watch the video Tutorial

For this video tutorial, I have used a scrap piece of Cork Fabric. You can use just about any type of fabric. I have used cotton, knit, vinyl, cork, and leather (just to name a few). Check out this step-by-step video to see how easy it is to install your own hardware to your handmade bag, tote or purse.

Be sure to head over to my online shop to get a Metal Bag Label in the finish you like best!

Happy Sewing!

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Adjustable Bag Strap Hardware

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Maple Leaf Quilt Block

October 3, 2019October 3, 20198 Comments

The Maple Leaf Quilt Block is the perfect block for the Fall Season! This quilt block is a traditional design and likely originated in the late 1800s. Typically, this block is made in two strongly contrasting colors. This nine-patch quilt block is super easy and looks really great! There are many ways to make a Maple Leaf Quilt Block. Let me show you how I made this version.

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

Maple leaf quilt block – Materials List

Leaf Fabric (there are so many great fall color choices – I have linked to a few of my favorite)
Background Fabric (I love this color for my background – I have linked to it below)
- Linen (Painters Palette #121-121)

maple leaf quilt block – Supply List

Sewing Machine
Quarter Inch foot for your sewing machine
- Here is a Low Shank Option
- Here is a High Shank Option
Cotton Thread (I recommend Aurifil 50 wt for piecing)
Sewing Pins
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade
Acrylic Ruler
Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat (the spinning mats are ideal)
Iron & Ironing Board

Four HST from one square

This method creates HST (half square triangles) on the bias, so you will want to generously starch your fabric and be sure to press your project and not iron. I love to make these quilt blocks, quickly! The quickest way to make four HST is using the method below:

Step One: Sew together the large square pieces: Place (1) Background and (1) Leaf Fabric with RST (right sides together). Sew 1/4″ seam all around the perimeter of the square.
Step Two: Mark two diagonal lines and cut the square apart.
Step Three: Press each HST open.
Step Four: Trim off excess fabric to your desired measurement.

making the stem block

Step Five: Cut one of the background blocks in half, diagonally. Place the Leaf Fabric Stem piece against the raw edge (as shown in the picture above). Sew a quarter-inch away from the raw edge and press open to the dark side.
Step Six: Repeat step five with the remaining HST and press to the dark side.
Step Seven: Center the ‘stem’ along your 45* angle on your acrylic ruler or cutting mat and trim this block to the appropriate square measurement.

maple leaf quilt block – assembly

Step Eight: Arrange your blocks in the correct layout (pictured above)
Step Nine: Using a quarter inch seam allowance, sew each row and then sew the rows together. Press your seams in the opposite directions. Be sure to nest your seams!
Step Ten: Join all rows, using a quarter inch seam allowance. Take time to nest your seams. Press your completed block and trim down to the correct size (if necessary)

I have calculated and published a PDF Pattern for (3) different sizes of the Maple Leaf Quilt Block. You have the option to make either a 6″, 9″ or 12″ Maple Leaf Quilt Block! All three sizes are included in this PDF Quilt Block Pattern. If you would like to download this pattern, you have a couple of options:

Option 1: Download for free.

To download the cutting measurements 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 instructions too. Woot!

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

Option 2: Purchase the PDF Pattern

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

Don’t you just love this block? It makes me crave a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte, put on a hoodie or sweater and snuggle up in a Maple Leaf Quilt with a good book (or maybe even binge on a new Netflix series)!

The options for this simple quilt block is fun to imagine! You could make just a couple more for a seasonal Table Runner or several more for an entire Quilt. The Maple Leaf Quilt Block is a really fun and simple quilt block. I hope you make lots and lots of them!

Watch my Video Tutorial

Be sure to share your quilt block in my Facebook Group and don’t forget to check out my fabric shop for some excellent fabric options!

Happy Quilting!

How to Install Purse Feet

September 19, 2019September 19, 20191 Comment

Purse Feet are some of the easiest additions to install into your Handmade Bag, Tote or Purse! These little gems can take your handmade bags and purses to the next level while keeping the bottom of your item off surfaces. I love how this hardware comes in different sizes and finishes too! Let me show you how to install purse feet and you can start adding these to your handmade goodies too!

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

Purse Feet Supply List

Bucket Purse Feet
- (Check out all the different finishes right HERE)
Stabilizing swatch
- (I used Pellon Peltex)
Sharp blade
- (You can get something like THIS on Amazon)
Marking tool
- (I just used a pencil)
Fray Check
- (you should only need this if using cotton or knit fabric)

Installing your purse feet

Pictured below is the bottom side of my Ansel Camera Bag. To learn more about how I made this fun bag (and about using cork fabric) – Head over to my post about Sewing with Cork Fabric.

Purse Feet are some of the easiest additions to install into your Handmade Bag, Tote or Purse! Let me show you how to install purse feet and you can start adding these to your handmade goodies too! #Sewing #DIY #PurseFeet #VideoTutorial #Totes #Bag #Handmade #Designer #Custom #BagHardware #Purses #SewMuchMoore #SewMuchMooreInStore

Once you have chosen your hardware finish, you just need to install your hardware! It is important to do this before you assemble your bag. I usually install purse feet when I am done adding the interfacing to a bottom panel.

In the bag pictured below, the designer wanted to add buttons instead of purse feet. While buttons would have added a cute touch – I really like how the purse feet look instead. This bag is called the Ultimate Travel Bag and there is LOTS of hardware in this bag.

Watch the video Tutorial

For this video tutorial, I have used a scrap piece of soft vinyl. You can use just about any type of fabric. I have used cotton, knit, vinyl, cork, and leather (just to name a few). Check out this step-by-step video to see how easy it is to install your own hardware to your handmade bag, tote or purse.

I hope you found this video tutorial helpful. Be sure to head over to my online shop to get your own purse feet (in your favorite finish). I cant wait to see your finished projects! Be sure to share these on my Facebook Group.

SHOP FOR PURSE FEET

Comment below and tell me what your favorite finish is! Currently, I love the Gun Metal finish!

Happy Sewing!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Churn Dash Quilt Block

September 11, 2019September 11, 20191 Comment

The Churn Dash Quilt Block is a classic quilt block that has stood the test of time. The Churn Dash is a very old 9-Patch quilt block pattern, originating between 1800 and 1849. Its name is a result of the resemblance of the triangle and rectangle perimeter of the block to a butter churn and the center square to the stick (or “dash”) of the butter churn. In this picture tutorial, I will show you how to put together this fun and easy quilt block. Grab your cutting measurements and let’s get started with this Churn Dash Quilt Block Tutorial!

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

Option 1: Download for free.

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

Option 2: Purchase the Cutting Measurments

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

Churn Dash Quilt Block Supply List

Quilt Block Cutting Measurements
Qty (2) Fat Quarter of Contrasting Fabrics (I used Add It Up and Yours Truly by Cotton + Steel)

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

Churn Dash quilt block tutorial

Iron your fabrics nice and flat to remove any and all wrinkles. Sometimes, I like to spray my fabrics with my favorite spray starch to make it easier to manage. Use your cutting measurements to get your pieces all cut and in order.

Sew your (2) long strips of fabric together like in the image below (right sides together). Next, cut your sewn strip of fabrics into (4) equal parts. For exact cutting measurements, please reference your pattern. Press open.

Take your large square fabrics and line up, right sides together. Sew a 1/4″ seam allowance all around the perimeter of the square. Next, make (2) diagonal cuts and press each piece open.

Now it is time to assemble your blocks. I recommend sewing each row together first and then assembling the three rows. I have shown below the recommended pressing direction for optimal assembly.

Such a fun and easy quilt block!

Have fun with this block and try all kinds of fabrics!

Be sure to show your completed Churn Dash Quilt Block in my FaceBook Group!

We would love to see your work!

Until next time, Happy Quilting!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT this fun post!

Organize your Fabric

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall!

September 4, 2019September 4, 20194 Comments

Sewing and Quilting for the Fall Season is a perfect time to make something special for yourself or for others. While we watch the leaves drop and the sky turn to grey, now is the perfect opportunity to use up some scraps or cut into that special fabric you have been saving! Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall!

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

let nature inspire you

Most of these patterns are fun and simple. Some patterns require a little more “know how”. 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:

Mushroom Quilt Block

This pattern is very easy to sew even if you have never tried paper piecing before. This mushroom would be an excellent project for you with just a few steps to complete the design. Look at the added stitches (those green shoots) to make the Mousy a bit more comfy. Grab your pretty fabric scraps and get sewing! Pattern by Larissa with Stitching Notes

Paper Pieced Squirrel FTW!!!

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Paper Pieced Squirrel - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

This cute squirrel has lots of character and is a challenging but fun make. Use the finished block as a mini quilt or as part of a larger creation. Think of all the scraps you can use up!! The PDF also includes instructions to scale-up the pattern to make a quilt of any size. Pattern by Diane Lawrence with Etive & Co.

Fox Pup FPP Pattern

Make this adorable Fox Pup, using the Foundation Paper Piecing Method. Pattern by Quilt Art Designs by Janeen van Niekerk

Paper Pieced Feathers

The pattern makes a 5″ x 10″ block. The beauty of this pattern is its versatility. This is a fabulous Pattern by Quiet Play. The arrow is also a Quiet Play pattern. Both are excellent!

Small projects make quick finishes!

There is no need to make a huge fuss about these fun and seasonal projects! Just pick one or two of them and get started! They are fun and addicting!

Scrappy Patchwork Acorn

This 6” Scrappy Acorn block is a great Fall and Autumn project for beginners and experienced stitchers alike. Use up some of the left-over scraps or pull out all your favorite brown, orange and red fabrics. This pattern is by The Patchsmith’s Pattern Shop

Scrappy Pumpkin Block

This scrappy block of the month is a strippy little pumpkin that’s made up entirely of 1 1/2″ wide strips and will finish at 8″ square. This adorable block comes together in a snap, so it’s perfect for weekend warriors who are looking for a project to usher in the Fall Season!

Hazel the Hedgehog

Elizabeth Hartman’s Hazel Hedgehog Pattern – While they might not be as soft and cuddly like a kitten they certainly are cute whether in real life or interpreted in fabric on a quilt

Applique Turkey Quilt Block

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Turkey Quilt Block - Appliqué - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

This 10.5″ square turkey block is appliqued and simply adorable! Learn more about how to make your own Turkey Quilt Block! – Pattern by Lori Holt with Bee in my Bonnet

Barn Mini Quilt

Make this Barn Mini Quilt and hang it on your wall for the season! This also makes a great Table Topper!

scrap busting projects ftw!

If you keep your fabric scraps (like many of us do) – these simple projects are perfect for you! Grab your Oranges, Browns, Greens and Reds to create something Fabulous for Fall!

Pumpkin Mug Rug

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Sassafras-lane Mini Pumpkin - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Make this fun little orange 8″ x 10″ mini quilt! This is also the perfect size for an adorable season Mug Rug! Pattern by Sassafrass-Lane.

Mod Owls by Sew Kind of Wonderful

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Mod Owls - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Sew Kind Of Wonderful QCR Mod Owls Pattern- This pattern uses both the Quick Curve Ruler and the Quick Curve Mini Ruler (both sold separately). These adorable owls have a very modern look with their clean lines and simplistic design. All curves are pieced

ps – you will need the Large Quick Curve Ruler and also the Mini Quick Curve Ruler for this pattern. You can check these out in my SHOP.

Sunflower Quilt Block (this one is made by Pat Sloan)

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - pat-sloan-aurifil-block-11 - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

The block was designed by Vanessa Goertzen from Lella Boutique for Aurifil’s 2017 September Designer of the Month feature. It’s constructed of squares and half-square triangles surrounding a snowball center and finishes at 12″ square.

Two Sizes in this Acorn Quilt Block!

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Acorn Quilt Block Pattern - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Gather up your fabrics to make lots of these adorable Acorn Quilt Blocks! There are two sizes included in this pattern! This pattern is by Ellisa and Higgs

Fancy Fox Tote Bag

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Fancy Fox - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

I incorporated a Fancy Fox Quilt Block into a panel for a Tote and I couldn’t be happier! Click the picture to see my finished project!

I don’t know about you, but I am excited about all the Fall sewing and quilting possibilities! I’ve already made the Fancy Fox Tote and the Barn Mini Quilt….. I think my scraps are beckoning to be made into something Fabulous!!

Tell us in the comments if you have tried any of these fun projects!

Happy Stitches!

Bag & Purse Hardware is HERE!

August 29, 2019October 9, 20193 Comments

Do you ever spent lots of time (and money) on making the perfect handmade bag only to be disappointed with the hardware you had to use? So many Big Box stores carry hardware that is bulky and ugly. Wouldnt it be nice to find a hardware selection that has more variety of sizes and finishes?

I’m super excited to share that I have stocked my shelves with some really great bag and purse hardware! Many of you already know how much I love using hardware when making bags, purses and totes. Now I can also offer these great items to you as well! Just take a look at what you might find in my online shop!

Considering all the things I love to make, it only made sense for me to start stocking and selling professional grade, high quality bag and purse hardware. I have partnered with Emmaline Bags, Inc (based in Canada) to bring you most of my very favorite items! Let me show you some of these right here.

Triangle Rings

Triangle rings are used in place of D-rings. These triangle rings are top of the line, solid metal and come in a variety of sizes and finishes. I just love them and use them on the Ultimate Travel Bag and the Betty Bowler Bag. You can even use these on the Dayna Pack.

Bucket Purse Feet

These little gems are just about the easiest bling that you can add to your bag or tote. With easy installation – bucket purse feet can really save the fabric of your bag. I dont know how many times I have had to set down my purse in a spot that I wish was cleaner (ball games, airports and even restroom floors – eeewwwwww). Adding bucket purse feet has extended the life of many bags indeed!

Adjustable & Removable Strap Hardware

If you’ve followed me for long, you know that I love to make purse and bag straps that are adjustable and removable! In order to do this, you need 3 seperate pieces of hardware. You need Triangle Rings, Swivel Clasps and Adjustable Sliders.

Fancy Finishings

You worked so hard on your handmade bag, so why not add some “Fancy Finishings” to make your bag complete! Wheather you add a Metal Label or a Metal Zipper Pull, these final touches will complete the look of your handmade masterpiece! Be sure to add your Metal Label during the construction of your bag! You don’t want the attaching hardware to show through your lining!

There are many more options in my Shop. Head over and take a peek! If you need something that you dont see offered, be sure to leave a comment below and I will add it to my list!

Happy Sewing!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

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2020 Quilter’s Planner

August 8, 2019September 7, 201992 Comments

With each new year, I look forward to a new planner. Having a planner helps me organize my months, weeks, days and even my hourly schedule. The reason I chose the Quilter’s Planner is the number of options that are given (no matter how you like to organize your life). As a bonus, I can also track many other things in my life and have a wonderful resource of inspiration as well! I also want to mention that the featured designer for 2020 is Karen Lewis of Karen Lewis Textiles. Karen is a fabric designer for Robert Kauffman. I adore her style and gobble up her fabric each chance I get! Just take a look at what you can expect with the 2020 Quilter’s Planner!

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

The 2020 Quilter’s Day Planner is designed to bring joy to planning your day, so you can balance your daily responsibilities with your creative quilting life. This planner, made specifically for quilters, is a high-quality spiral-bound book with monthly and weekly calendars, as well as quilt block patterns, graph paper and much, much more.

New Size!!! 7″ x 9″ Planner Features:

This year’s edition is full of improvements made from the comments and suggestions you provided, including:

- Featured Designer: Karen Lewis from Karen Lewis Textiles NEW!
- More convenient 7″ x 9″ page size NEW!
- Choose your Start Day! Do you prefer your calendars to start on a Monday or Sunday? YOU CHOOSE! NEW!
- Choose your cover design (or sew your own with our free cover patterns!)
- 2020 Quilter’s Planner Magazine: A companion full-color glossy magazine with 13 quilting and sewing patterns by top designers
- 12 monthly blocks featured in a new Quilter’s Planner Sampler Quilt pattern by Karen Lewis (in two colorways) NEW!
- Monthly calendar pages
- Weekly calendar pages – Choose between 4 different weekly calendar designs: vertical, horizontal, graph paper or dot grid. NEW!
- Laminated cover and tabs to last all year
- Gorgeous quilt photography by Kitty Wilkin
- Project Planning Pages and Projects-At-A-Glance Pages that thousands of quilters cannot live without
- Yearly goals planning page
- Vision board page so you can create a visual representation of what you will focus on this year NEW!
- Deadline planning pages
- Bee block & swap projects planner
- Quilting reference pages
- Multiple kinds of graph paper
- Blank drawing paper
- A pocket at the back of the planner

2020 Quilter’s Planner – Block of the Month

I love how Quilter’s Planner has made a fun community where folks can come together in a common project! They would like you to join them on Facebook and Instagram as we sew the 2020 QP Sampler Quilt Block of the Month (BOM) pattern. Check out their Facebook group and Instagram for tips for sewing a beautiful sampler quilt. You can get support and help along the way by asking their QP experts and group members. You can join in at any point during the year. It’s never too late!

All you need to participate in the BOM sew-along is your copy of the 2020 Quilter’s Planner and the accompanying pattern magazine.

2020 Quilter’s Planner – accessories

I’m totally loving all the accessories to choose from this year! From the little Pocket Planners to the Clip-In To-Do List! Be sure to Check out the Accessories section and add some of these goodies to your cart before you check out!

I’m looking forward to getting my copy of the 2020 Quilter’s Planner. Let me know if you have any planning tips or tricks for your Planner – we love tips and tricks!

Happy Planning!

Check out this related post!

Make your own Quilter’s Planner Cover