Adel Quilting & Dry Goods Co

New Stuff

2012-01-28T10:34:00.000-08:00

Just in - bright butterflies on black.

Here are several new selections of Moda's plush Fireside. It's 60" wide and great for lap throw backs.

Here's a couple of our new greys. Who would've thunk greys could be some warm and inviting? There is more on the shelf and more coming in.

And some classic new blue and yellow prints. See in the background some of the purples we will be using in our Calendar Girls BOM. The stars in this color way will be solid black.

And just in - - This magazine featuring wool and other primitive projects. This magazine has personal touch as the editor is Kimber Mitchell from Adel.

Here are two new small kits for St Pat's Day with one more coming in soon!

Red and White Quilt Exhibit

2012-01-26T15:36:00.000-08:00

We've seen a lot of pictures from the Red and White quilt exhibit that visited NYC last year. Here is a video that shows it from several different perspectives though. Enjoy and thank you to Cindy Kirk for passing this on to me.

http://www.armoryonpark.org/index.php/photo_gallery/slideshow/infinite_variety/

Beginners Quilting Class ~ Monday, Feb 13 ~ 10 am to 4 pm

2012-01-26T07:50:00.000-08:00

We've been teaching this class for over 10 years now. It starts with a review of beginner supplies and then focuses on the very basics of quilting - - Cutting, Pressing, Stitching, Straight Line Machine Quilting and Binding with the theory that once those are conquered with accuracy, everything else just falls nicely into place. The class includes a student folder with pattern and reference hand outs, all the fabric to complete a seasonal table topper in class (front, back, batting and binding) and 6 hours of instruction. Call soon to register - To provide quality one on one attention, class size is limited to just 6 students.

Thanks for sharing, Sue. Love it!

2012-01-25T17:10:00.001-08:00

Community Comfort Quilt Sew Day

2012-01-24T08:16:00.000-08:00

Debra Semmens has established a charitable organization, Iowa Comfort Quilts. You can read all about it at www.iowacomfort.blogspot.com. Saturday (Jan 28) Deb is hosting a community sew day at the Adel Library to work on comfort quilts. Drop in for all day or any part of the day and lend a hand or just to learn more about the program. Donation fabric is also accepted. There are so many unfortunate things that happen in life over which we have no control. This is something that we as quilters can tangibly do. Thank you, Deb, for organizing this.

Show N Tell!

2012-01-23T16:21:00.000-08:00

Connie Cook sent me this picture of her flannel monkey quilt. Isn't this cute? I love the secondary design created by using 5" square s and a rail fence type block.

And Marge Pearson sent me the picture of this table runner. She wanted to do something in a little less traditional Valentine colors. Notice the heart that are quilted in the corners. Nice touch.

Ritzy Cracker Quilt

2012-01-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

Just one charm pack and 1 yard of fabric makes this very cute little quilt. This would also be great for an autograph quilt. Check it out at Moda's Bake Shop site.

http://www.modabakeshop.com/2010/10/ritzy-cracker-quilt.html

My two babies

2012-01-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

I apologize for being an obnoxious Gma but, couldn't resist sharing this one!

Looking for a good used long arm quilting machine?

2012-01-21T17:35:00.000-08:00

Abbie has one for sale, barely used. It's a HQ16 Prostitcher with a 10.5 foot table and a ruler base. She's asking $9,950. If interested call her at 515-314-9489.

Fun Times!

2012-01-21T07:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a fun day of making oversized wool felt flowers to embellish bags and pillows. (ps - thanks to the gals that came to play with me).

Today begins Box O Chocolates Block of the Month pick up week. To celebrate the chocolate, here is a recipe I've been baking and serving to guests lately. It is both easy to do and sinful as chocolate should be. This is one of the recipes we included with our Box O Chocolates patterns:

Molten Chocolate Cake

Pre-heat oven to 450

Butter 4 ramekin baking dishes. Measure out 3T of cocoa powder. Use some of this to coat the buttered ramekins and save the excess. Place ramekins on a baking sheet and set aside.

Melt in double broiler and set aside to cool slightly:

1 1/2 sticks butter
6 - 1 oz squares of semi sweet chocolate

Whisk together:

3 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks
1/3 C plus 2T white sugar

Slowly stir melted chocolate in to eggs. Stir in 1/4 C flour and remainder of cocoa powder until just combined.

Divide batter among the 4 ramekin dishes and bake for 13-14 minutes until cakes are firm and yet soft in the middle.

Cool for about 1 minute before inverting on to serving plate. Best if served with ice cream. After the cakes are cooled, the chocolate center sets up a bit. You can re-heat for 10 seconds to return to the molten lava state! (voice of experience here)

New Oak Quilt Trunk Style

2012-01-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

Haines brought us a new style oak trunk. This one is much taller and has two hanging rods across the top and a mirrored back. You can both stack quilts in the bottom and hang quilts in the top. Very nice.

And the rest of the story - - - More QC pictures.

2012-01-18T19:58:00.000-08:00

Nancy shared this little "Ten Minute Block" quilt she made from an AQS purchase of small squares. To the right, Marge is perusing a photo book Jackie Orton shared. Jackie O created the book to commemorate the Iowa Quilter's reunion during the AQS show in DM last fall. So nice

She also shared some fabric she picked up on a recent vacation - - - - TO MAUI!

And isn't this a stunner. Marge shared this. The block technique was shared by Jan Mueller at a previous Quilt Circle meeting. Marge pieced this quilt top and Julia Swallow machine quilted it. Nice!

Quilt Circle of Friends Met!

2012-01-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

Here is the first series of pictures - - - - more to come - - - -

Joyce Scott received this as a Christmas gift from her mother. She made one for each of the sisters.

Deb Semmens and Penny White presented this comfort quilt for Iowa Comfort Quilts. The batik was fabric donated by a quilter that thought it ugly. Not ugly now, huh?

And the label, albeit fuzzy here, was especially made by Diane Wakefield. It says Iowa Comfort Quilt "Wish Upon a Star"

Theresa is expecting a niece or nephew soon and she is ready with a burp cloth (above) and an original design baby quilt below.

Front

back

Margaret shared pictures of a quilt she very generously finished up for a friend and a darling pot holder.

Celia was proud to introduce a new member to her family - - - - - a long arm quilting machine named Lady Di.

Lonnie made this shop sample quilt - a Patrick Lose design - "Luck O The Irish". Isn't this adorable?

Then I share a few class samples. First, wool felt embellished bags and pillows.

And this is the Pineapple Block Day Camp in March. This Day Camp is nearly full already. This quilt was shared with us by Faith Bratton to display in the shop. Marge Pearson will teach the class.

Stitch in Color

2012-01-17T10:33:00.000-08:00

New fun stuff from Moda.

MLK Day

2012-01-16T18:42:00.000-08:00

Today we remember a pioneer of American history who stood for freedom, justice and peace—Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Notes of Thanks

2012-01-16T14:59:00.000-08:00

I received a large envelope FULL of thank you notes from the children and their families that were represented on our Angel Tree this year. You know how deeply appreciated it is but it's still special to get this feedback.

And then I got this lovely message from a customer/retreat attendee:

"We took your 9 patch comfort quilt to Dr. Shreck and his nurses this AM to be given to the patient of their choice. They were all touched and appreciative of the efforts of 10 or so quilters making that happen. Turns out his wife quilts so he "got" it in a more lived way.

I'd meant to get a picture of him/them holding the quilt for your blog but I thought of it only before & after being w/ them :-(( But feel good you that you helped make it happen. That's one of the things I've come to look forward to and & appreciate about your retreats. You make it about us but make sure we have an opportunity to give to others at the same time. It's a nice balance. Good job, Woman!"

Connie

May we always be overwhelmed by the grace of God rather than by the cares of life.

These are just some of the blocks that Connie is referencing.

Quilt Circle 2012!!

2012-01-16T09:14:00.000-08:00

Very excited today as I prepare for our first Quilt Circle of Friends meeting of the year. We meet in the shop from 6 to 7:30 pm on the 3rd Monday of each month. We sit in a circle and share our show n tell and quilt news, draw for a few prizes and have a refreshment. Tonight, we will collect our "Get-Er-Done" challenge lists of at least 3 projects we REALLY want to complete before the years end. There will be prizes! Join us if you can. Club fee is $5 a month.

Sunday Sew Day

2012-01-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

Had a fun Sunday Sew Day, but of a different kind! Willow and I made seat covers for the dinette chairs she recently inherited and then we hemmed 10 gauzy panels for her living room. Still to do - pillow and ottoman covers. Such a fun time to spend with a daughter.

And with a grandson! Gotta love that bib.

Online Machine Quilting Class

2012-01-15T21:21:00.000-08:00

I thought this sounded interesting - take a look if you are interested in help with machine quilting.
--------------------------------

At the American Quilter's Society, we're dedicated to providing our readers with the information, tips and tools needed to enjoy quilting. As a part of this commitment, we're pleased to present to our On Point readers this special offer.

Get 50% Off Best-Selling Craftsy Class Machine Quilting: Free-Motion & More! Only $29.99!

Learn Free-Motion and More!

Get 50% Off!

Make the most of your sewing machine: use it to finish your quilt properly and beautifully. Wendy Butler Berns will teach you how easy it is with her Craftsy class Machine Quilting: Free-Motion & More. Wendy is a renowned quilter; her work has appeared in such shows as the International Quilt Show and American Quilter’s Society. For her instruction, she was the recipient of the Jewel Pearce Patterson scholarship. This is your chance to learn from a true master of the craft. Register for Machine Quilting: Free-Motion & More now for 50% Off!

Learn it. Make it.

Choose the proper threads.

Learn various free-motion techniques.

Find out how to properly layer your quilt.

Set up an ideal workspace.

Get helpful and time-saving troubleshooting tips.

Enroll now for 50% off! This offer is good until January 22, 2012!

Watch when you want, however many times you want.

Interact with the instructor. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back.

If this link doesn't work, go to http://www.craftsy.com/class/Machine-Quilting-Free-Motion-More/37

Radiant Class Today

2012-01-14T19:24:00.000-08:00

Fun class today - Led by Jan Mueller, they planned - - - - -

and measured - - - - -

and stitched - - - -

and cut - - - -

and finally - arranged blocks.

This quilt was brought to class by Lorna Heemstra. I don't think she really needed the class! She took it for fun. This quilt shown is a Radiant that Lorna made for a raffle at the school where she teaches. Pretty, isn't it?

and Thank You to Jan Mueller for another great class!

New Strip Club Project - Starts in February

2012-01-14T09:01:00.000-08:00

This is just a small sample. The actual project will have 48 blocks and make a Queen Size quilt. For $18 a month, Strip Club members get all of the pre-cut strips to build this quilt (outer border is optional). Binding is included. Pattern is by Terry Atkinson, "Urban Cabin"

Calendar Girls Block of the Month

2012-01-12T08:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the Calendar Girls Quilt, now quilted and bound. This b.o.m .starts in February. Just $10 a month gets you the entire quilt top, blocks, sashes, borders and binding!

Each month, make a 6" square for the block center. Then add the flying geese units to make a 12" finished block.

This program includes a free Calendar! In addition to photos featuring our fabulous local quilters, this calendar also comes with a monthly recipe and quilt block patterns. Already have a 2012 calendar? Just tell us and we will give you one free month.

Choices for the BOM are red and cream as shown above or purple stars on a black background.

Class - Friday - January 20 - 1 to 4 pm

2012-01-12T08:23:00.000-08:00

We are calling this class "Bags 101" because it includes tips on making great handles, adding pockets to a bag pattern when needed, stabilizers and closures that we think are best.

The real value in this class, however, is that students will also sit down and make a wool felt flower as shown below. The $30 class fee includes pre-cut wool felt circles, a woven hand towel to either make a bag or pillow, a free bag pattern and refreshments. How's that for a fun Friday afternoon with a pal?

Email yourself blog posts!

2012-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

To follow this blog by email, simply enter your email address (see left side column). Each time I post a message, it will be automatically sent to your email address. What an easy way to keep up with the latest news from AQDG CO!

The cousins are almost little boys!!

2012-01-11T12:03:00.000-08:00

The boys are 5 and 6 months old already!

From American Quilt Society - - - -

2012-01-11T05:18:00.000-08:00

Pinning for Better Borders

Most quilters know to measure through the center of the quilt and then cut borders to fit before stitching them on. But how you pin your borders also can make a big difference in the quilt’s appearance. In this example I measured, cut and then pinned the border to the quilt, easing as necessary. The ends of the border at the seam fit perfectly, so I expected a perfect result.

Click here to read this tip by Marje Rhine, pattern editor for American Quilter magazine.
http://www.quiltviews.com/pinning-for-better-borders?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Free%20Bluebird%20Quilt%20%20Pattern01/10/2012%2015:13:48

New stuff!

2012-01-10T17:16:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Valentine's, this sweet lap quilt was made by Celia McCollum. The hankie center is a panel. Just add two borders and it's done. We backed this in flannel for a cozy feel. Available now in kit with free instructions.

The Valentine fabric is all in and we have several new holiday samples coming. Better get it while you can!

Lonnie made the comment today that this would be a great backing fabric for our current block of the month, Box O' Chocolates.

We are just starting to carry more novelty fabric. Cheers!

From Moda, Barbara Brackman's new civil war line - Battle Hymn. We also have this line in Charm packs.

Did you sew this week-end?

2012-01-09T07:40:00.000-08:00

If you did, send me a picture to post. I had a very productive Sewing Sunday. It was GREAT! Started with some chores - put the binding on two quilts, then worked on these two little shop samples shown below and finished the evening with a completed gal version of our "Guy (or Gal) Quilt".

Not done with the stuffing on this pillow but, I used a hand towel to make the case. The wool felt flower is part of our Bags Class on Jan. 20.

And take a closer peek at this Irish Table Blessings topper. I used Chenille by the Inch for the stems, just for a fun twist.

New Valentine Sample

2012-01-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

Diana Weirich made this little shop sample quilt for us. It uses one charm pack. We used one from Moda's new line "Ruby". Pretty little quilt, isn't it?

Today's Show N Tell

2012-01-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

Lonnie Keeran brought this in to show on her way to the long arm quilter. This is the pattern "Side Lights". The pattern features a pre-printed panel or, as in Lonnie's quilt, a large piece of focus fabric. This pattern is available at your local quilt shop :)

Penny White brought in a couple of things to show. Above is a shop sample she made for us. It's the Snap Sack quilt "Star Flake" (just $12.99 for the pattern and fabric for top, back and bind). Done in navy and silver sparkly fabric, it is truly a winter wall hanging. Below is a bib Penny made with her embroidery sewing machine. I think Grandma Jac needs to make one of these!

Thanks for sharing, gals!

Book Clutches

2012-01-05T10:11:00.000-08:00

Marilyn Kofmehl brought these in to share with me. She has been re-purposing old books into clutch purses. She starts by removing all of the old pages, makes a lining with a pocket and side gussets and adds a cardboard covered trim with a snap. She puts it all together using fabric glue. Aren't these just too cute?

First taste of cereal!

2012-01-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

It might not be icecream, but, it's not too bad!

Selling a good used machine?

2012-01-04T08:22:00.000-08:00

Darcy is looking to purchase a good used domestic sewing machine. If you have one to sell, call her at 515-250-8505.

Prairie Women Sewing Circle Box Set

2012-01-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

These shop sample quilts were made by Penny White, Jacque Johnson and Jenny Osler

Above are three of the quilts from Journey II of Prairie Women's Sewing Circle. We have kits of all three now available. We have put these kits together in a box set. The box set includes the Journey II packet of 6 history lessons and 8 patterns plus kits for each of these little quilts. Sold individually, the cost was $110. As a special box set, the total package is now just $69.75. We have just 4 of these box sets available!

Show N Tell Time!

2012-01-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

Don't you love this setting? Get your flying geese x 4 going and this quilt is done in no time. Penny White made this quilt from fabric donated to Iowa Comfort Quilts. This quilt will be donated to a woman's shelter. See more about that non-profit at http://www.iowacomfort.blogspot.com/

Another cool setting, Marge Pearson sent me this picture before Christmas. Lots of possibilities here.

Busy prepping for classes - - -

2012-01-01T18:02:00.000-08:00

We took advantage of a little down time this weekend to prep for upcoming classes - first this class scheduled for Jan 14.

Jan Mueller, preparing to teach the pattern "Radiant", took this fabric selection - -

and layed out this quilt center to use in her class demo

I finished up this bag for the Bags 101 Class on Jan 20. I'll be demonstrating basic bag making techniques and students will stitch one of these wool felt floral embellishments in class.

And Judy Williams is busy putting together the Garden Jubilee blocks.

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-31T21:50:00.000-08:00

Holiday Reflections

2011-12-31T07:45:00.000-08:00

What is Christmas?

It is tenderness for the past,
courage for the present,
hope for the future.
It is a fervent wish that every cup
may overflow with blessings rich and eternal,
and that every path may lead to peace.

~Agnes M. Pahro

And a toast to the New Year!

Here's a toast to the future,
A toast to the past,
And a toast to our friends, far and near.
May the future be pleasant;
The past a bright dream;
May our friends remain faithful and dear.

Garden Jubilee

2011-12-28T06:14:00.000-08:00

Judy Williams, a quilter friend from Kansas City, is making these blocks and sending them to us, one at a time. Here is block #1. As you can see, these are much less complicated than most album blocks. Judy did a needle turn technique of applique but these blocks are just as lovely done by machine applique. A little embroidery is done to enhance the block. The bom starts in March for just $12 a month. Sign up now!

New Block of the Month programs - - - -

2011-12-26T17:41:00.000-08:00

See details in the QTR I newsletter, available in the shop, by mail or on the website now at http://www.adelquilting.com/

Applique BOM - Garden Jubilee

Calendar Girls - Includes our calendar of quilts, recipes and patterns
Choose red and cream or a black background with purple stars.

Gabe and Jackson

2011-12-24T20:02:00.000-08:00

Uncle Gabe, home from TX for the holidays, finally got to meet his nephew in person today!

Cute new kids fabric - just in.

2011-12-23T10:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to All!

2011-12-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

Click to view the holiday message to you from Adel Quilting & Dry Goods.

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/lL4COo8oG5kDzEDj

Our Angel-Angels

2011-12-19T16:03:00.000-08:00

I want to recognize the generous folks who came in to adopt Angels from our tree. Thanks to these kind souls, I have 22 packages of multiple gifts to deliver tomorrow!

Sara Helland
Linda Andorf ** Linda did two angels!
Lonnie Keeran
Andrew Rosi
Joanne Schnebley
Jackie Orton
Nancy Hagelberg
Joyce Scott
Frank Johnson
Colleen Eckhoff
Penny White
Barb Park
Jenny Osler
Linda Northwick
Sarah Downing
Becky Carico
Deb Fyfe & her sister
Diana Weirich
Jan Mueller
Judy Tichenor *** Judy adopted 3 angels!
Willow Hill

2011-12-19T12:13:00.000-08:00

The angels have all returned to the shop for delivery before Christmas. We asked for a pillow case for each with optional gifts. As usual, our customers went overboard.

Above is the gift for a 2 year old little girl. Diana Weirich adopted this angel from our tree. She filled a plastic shoe-box size box with little girl gifts. Then she covered the box with a tree skirt, made a quilt, blanket and pillow for the dollie. Her thought is that the little girl can keep her doll clothes in the box "under the bed".
Doesn't that make you wish you were a little girl again. So thoughtful.

Our most sincere thank you to each and every one of you that adopted an angel from our tree. Sometimes it seems thank you is just not a big enough phrase.

And these are just some of the gifts for our Angels.

Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve Recipe!

2011-12-15T09:50:00.000-08:00

Hot Wing Dip

5 cooked chicken breasts chopped in small pieces
12 oz. (1 pkg) cream cheese
16 oz (2 pkgs) shredded cheddar
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup Frank's red hot sauce

Mix everything and bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Serve with crackers, celery, chips, etc.

Snowy/Rainy Day Project

2011-12-14T08:14:00.000-08:00

Shared by Jan Magee, American Quilt Society

A project for a snowy day. It snowed again and I thought how nice it would be to just stay home – and to make something fun and seasonal (and not cookies!) without having to leave the house for supplies. One thing I have plenty of is buttons, and I bet you do, too. If you’re like me, you cannot let the most tattered garment go to the rag bag without first rescuing the buttons. And since my mother and her mother before her were that way, too, and I have their buttons…you get the picture.

So I invite you to grab that trusty glue gun, a Styrofoam ball (mine was 2 ½”), a decorative cord (this was one of those elastic ones that came on a gift box), a straight pin, and the button box.

Here are the instructions: Glue buttons on the ball. Can you really do this wrong? Most of my buttons went on flat, but some overlapped and some ended up on a second layer. Buttons with a shank were good for filling in the small spaces. I quit counting buttons around 100, and quit gluing after about half an hour.

Push the pin through the knot in the cord. I placed a drop of glue where I wanted the cord to go and inserted the pin into the ball, through the glue, so it wouldn’t pull out from the weight of the ball.

Here’s what it looks like, hanging from a branch in my yard the day after. Let it snow (and let us know)!

A little humor - - - -

2011-12-13T20:57:00.000-08:00

- - - - from our quilt circle sister in AZ:

And - the stockings are hung:

Santa's Little Helper

2011-12-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

Four Months

New Stuff!

2011-12-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

Aren't these fun? These are from a new fabric producer, "Stella Designs." I love all of their prints because the are fresh and new. The hand on this fabric is very nice as well. Grey has certainly been prevalent in all of the new fabric lines. I have to admit, it's really growing on me!

Layer cakes from French General

Charms from three new fabric lines.

Rolling cases for sewing machines -- I bought these from our wholesaler on Cyber Monday at a special price and am passing that along to you. Regular price is $149. I have two of these left at just $99 ea. Hello, Santa---?

And another grouping from Stella Designs. It's just a little early to be thinking spring but, aren't these pretty?

Another Comfort Quilt is Done

2011-12-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

Remember the black and cream donation blocks that went home with quilters at retreat? There were 6 stacks of 30 blocks per stack. Well, here is another one. Connie Remetch put this one together and it will be donated to the cancer treatment center where her husband as been receiving treatment. She searched high and low for the perfect border fabric to tie it all together. Lovely!

Isn't this a pretty sight?

2011-12-06T05:52:00.000-08:00

The annual holiday quilt show was last Sunday at the Christian Church in Adel. Many of you dropped off quilts to be added to this show. Quilts are just made to be draped over church pews,

aren't they? Thank you to Margaret Beal and the church gang that help make this happen. Always a treat.

Stocking pattern

2011-12-03T10:59:00.000-08:00

Make a lined stocking, with no raw edges exposed, in just one seam! Layer fabric in order shown. You can cut out the stocking shape after layering or, cut and then layer. Tips: If you are using a heavier wool or corduroy or velvet, you may not need the batting. Also, pinking the seam allowance after stitching is helpful in creating a nice smooth curve.

Layer in this order:

2 fabrics for the outside of the stocking, right sides together
1 layer of thin batting
2 fabrics for the lining of the stocking, right sides together
1 layer of thin batting

Now, starting at the top on one side, stitch a 1/2" seam allowance all the way around the boot and back up the other side. The top edge of the stocking will still be unsewn.

Reach in between the two layers of lining and pull the stocking inside out.
Then reach in between the two layers of the outer fabric and pull the stocking inside out.
You should now see a fully lined stocking with no seam allowances showing. The top edge needs to be finished by turning to the inside or adding trim or a cuff. Need help? Come in and we will show you how and thank you to girl friends Patty and Penny for showing me this fun technique.

Kaywos

2011-11-30T19:46:00.000-08:00

What is a Kaywos? It's a cloth that Kleans Anything With Out Streaks! My dear friend Jan, gave me one of these. I guess she's been in my house and figured I needed it. Teasing - She bought herself one as well.

Anyway, they are wonderful. I wiped down every surface in my house before Thanksgiving company and it worked on everything. They are especially nice for mirrors. Just get the Kaywos cloth wet, squeeze out the excess water, wipe the surface and let the little bubbles dry for a perfectly shiny surface. My favorite use was on my laminate wood floor. I previously had to scrub and then wipe dry with a big towel or I would have streaks. I got a Kaywos wet, squeezed out the excess and attached it to my Swifter. It cleaned my laminate floor with ease and dried clear. When wet, it kind of feels like a thin shammy cloth. SO - - Why am I going on and on about this? I love them so much, I contacted the company and the shipment arrived today. Although this sounds like an infomercial, it really isn't. These sell for $3 each and that is not going to make or break us. I just really think these make cleaning a whole lot easier.

Recipe!

2011-11-27T15:28:00.000-08:00

This recipe was served by Norma Douglas at a recent quilter's pot luck. It meets my criteria of easy ingredients and great taste so thought I would share:

Mexican Chicken
Grease bottom of 8" baking dish and cover with crushed Dorito nacho chips. Norma likes the cheese flavored Doritos.

Ingredients:
1 - 8 oz can sour cream
1 - can cream of chicken soup
1 - small can chopped green chilles
grated mozzarella, cheddar and hot pepper cheese to equal about 1 1/2 C
9 oz chicken breast - cooked and torn in strips

Mix together the soup and sour cream. Then, on top of crushed chips layer in this order:

1/2 of the sour cream and soup mixture and all of the chilles
shredded chicken
dollops of the remaining sour cream and soup mixture
cheese

Bake 400 for 35-40 min - Let stand about 5 min before serving.

Ain't it the truth!

2011-11-26T19:26:00.001-08:00

Who needs a quick guy quilt?

2011-11-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

This is a new pattern from us. We have this in a flannel kit. The strips for the center and for the "brick" border are all pre-cut to the exact size in our kits. That helps control the price of the kit since there is no waste and it helps you whip this up in very short time. It' a large throw size now but one outer border would make it twin size. We backed the shop sample with a fleece like fabric from Moda called Fireside. This is one warm and snugly quilt! Flannel kits are just $59.
We also have this available in a red, turquoise and gray for a more feminine look.

Another quick gift idea? - - - This is a lap top bag. We used laminated cotton for the outer shell, lined it with cotton and used Soft and Stable for the interfacing. - Quick sew - great gift.

Recyle an old sweater

2011-11-20T19:38:00.000-08:00

Who needs to make a stocking? I am going to clean out my closet and give this a try. Too cute!
http://www.marthastewart.com/273391/sweater-stocking

New Fabric - Lots of it!

2011-11-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

New from Kansas Troubles - 15 bolts of Cattails and Clover.

New Pattern - new model!

2011-11-15T20:00:00.000-08:00

Look! A legitimate reason to post a picture of my grandson. He modeled our new Baby Bath hooded towel for the pattern jacket today. One wash cloth and one bath towel makes two of these for your little snuggle bunny.

Comfort Quilt News

2011-11-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

Remember the cream and black blocks we collected at retreat? I sorted them into piles and guests took a stack home to make a comfort quilt for someone in their own community. Well, here are two that Sue Risius made from her stack by adding her own fabrics. These will each go to friends of the family who are in treatment now for cancer. Again, the power of many hands - - -

A recipe from my sister - - -

2011-11-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

Chicken Enchilada's

1 - can cream of chicken soup
1 - 8 oz. AE Mexican sour cream
¾ - soup can of milk
2 - 12.5 oz. can chicken or cook 3 chicken breasts and shred the meat.
1 - small can jalapeño's (drain) Optional
8 to 10 - enchilada shells
1 - can refried beans or bean dip
3 cups - Mexican shredded cheddar cheese
Mix:
Bowl 1 - Soup, sour cream, and milk.
Bowl 2 - chicken. Add ¼ c of mixture from bowl 1 to moisten chicken. Can add 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of jalapeño's if desired. All depends on how hot you like them. I use less.

Prepare:
Spread beans over each enchilada shell covering entirely.
Divide chicken mixture evenly between shells placing meat in a line on one side of the shell.
Divide 2 cups of the cheese between the shells placing along side the chicken.
Roll shells up and place in greased 9 x 13 baking dish.
Pour sauce from bowl 1 over enchilada's covering them completely.
Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.
The last 5 minutes of baking sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese and complete baking or until cheese is melted.

2011-11-11T17:05:00.000-08:00

Did I tell you I visited this shop while in McKinney, TX? It is a really nice shop with a fresh bright look, not more than a couple miles from where the kids live. They play the asylum theme up at every opportunity. Some way, you can buy in to their discount program. I heard a gal go to the check out counter with her purchases and say, "Oh, and, I'm committed." The clerk then gave her a discount.

We're 3 today!

2011-11-10T10:19:00.000-08:00

3 months, that is.

New Stuff!

2011-11-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

The Supreme Slider is not new but the larger size shown in the tube above is. This is a Teflon sheet that temporarily sticks to your sewing machine table and makes machine quilting on a domestic machine much easier. We have had customers say these sheets make a huge difference. The new size obviously covers a larger surface and makes gliding quilts around on your sewing table even easier. You place the Teflon sheet on your table when you machine quilt and then pull it off when you are done. No residue - - - re-use over and over. It's all in the tools, isn't it?

From Moda - Late Bloomers - Lovely in brown and turquoise.

Also from Moda, an assortment of nature prints just to have in stock for those special projects.

And we've freshened up our 1930 repros a bit with these new pieces.

And, still on the shelf is a little bit of Fall - Going fast as is the season.

Check it out!

2011-11-07T19:12:00.000-08:00

Want to see a virtual tour of the Houston International Quilt Show? Got to http://www.quilts.com/ and click on the link on the right side. Thanks to Virginia for sharing this info. It's a treat.

Check it out!

2011-11-07T13:26:00.000-08:00

Deb Semmens has started her own non-profit organization to support the fight against domestic abuse. Deb is collecting donation fabric & putting together kits that anyone can adopt to make a donation quilt. These quilts will be donated to a women's domestic abuse center where they will be used for comfort. Adel Quilting is a drop off center for donation fabric. We are also encouraging anyone interested to donate 30 to 60 minutes of their sewing time during our once a month Open Sew. Again, the fabric kits will be provided. At this time, it looks like kits will be 10" squares sashed together so, quick sews that will be very, very appreciated by the recipients. For more information, check out Deb's blog and/or contact Deb. I never cease to be amazed by the generosity of quilters.
http://iowacomfort.blogspot.com/2011/10/crisis-intervention-advocacy-center.html?spref=fb

Kid updates - - -

2011-11-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

Here's Brookly, our Chicago kid. Today she completed a run up the stairs of the Sears Tower as part of a fund raiser for the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Way to go GIRL!!! I wonder how well she will be walking tomorrow?

And here are Gabe and Laura, the TX kids. I just returned from a lovely long weekend visit to them and - - - -

- -- - - - their border collie, Blue. He and I bonded on several long walks. Well, maybe long to me and short to him.

And look at this quilt Laura made! It's from a book her grandmother had and she made it, using templates, with no other quilting instruction. She even machine quilted it. Not bad for a first quilt with no help, is it?

2011-11-01T06:43:00.001-07:00

Jackson as a Jack-O-Lantern

From a customer - - - --

2011-10-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Rhonda Kiefer is retiring an old Viking and has a couple new Viking accessories to sell. Contact her if you are interested. phone 515-490-6506 or email to rhonda.kiefer@pioneer.com

Dual Feeder Walking Foot # 412 28 01-45
Darning Foot #411 73 90-45

Walking Foot alone (never used) was $125 new. She would like $75 or best offer for both feet.

Happy Stuff!

2011-10-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

Second Chances, the sequel to The Iowa Farmer's Wife is in AND our new calendar of quilts and recipes PLUS this year, the calendar includes block of the month patterns with a setting pattern on the calendar back for The Calendar Girls Quilt. If you have a quilt featured in this calendar, be sure to come by and pick up your free calendar. Otherwise, calendars are $14.95 each. We'll go through this first order of 100 in a hurry so, don't delay. Two great gift ideas here to kick off the holiday shopping. (Did I just say holiday shopping already!!!!)

Poor Max!

2011-10-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Click to enlarge this picture and look at the expression on Max's face. He's saying "Enjoy it while you can, Jackson. She used to take me on walks, too!"

Look who's 2 months old already!!!

2011-10-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

This is Grandma Jac trying to catch the smiles. There were several but I never quite caught one on film.

Mommy is still his favorite. Guess she always will be. :)

Can you - - - -

2011-09-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

- - - - - touch your arm pit with your knee? Imagine how tall this puppy will be when he grows into those feet!

Thank you - - - -

2011-08-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

----to everyone who came in this weekend and let us show our appreciation for your business. You know it was a successful event when you end the third day by soaking in a hot tub. I am so sleeping in tomorrow but, come Monday, we'll be right back at it, looking for better ways to serve you. So, again, thanks for the opportunity.