Living This Creative Life

I have two favorite quotes. The first one is by Emile Zola, "If you asked me what I came into this world to do, I would tell you that I came to live out loud". I don't know who the second one is by, but it goes like this, "If you're not living on the edge then you might as well jump". Both of these sentiments sum up my personal philosophy of this experience we call life on earth. Enjoy!

Monday, August 9, 2010

The Machine Quilting Challenge, Block #60


Good Morning,
It's been a while, almost two months since my last entry, I've been going through a bunch of personal changes and needed to take some time off. But, I'm back now and I hope that some of you are still with me!
Here is today's new stitch-out. It combines swirled designs from several past stitch-outs; triangle, square and rectangular swirls. This one is very fun and quite contemporary looking. I find it a bit more difficult than stitching the designs in rows. You have to think a little bit more because you have to have an idea of what shape your going to stitch next and where you're going to stitch it.
Begin by stitching a shape that is about 1 1/2" across. I started with a square, then swirl into the shape and back out again. Stitch another shape, but make it different from the first. Swirl in then back out. Try to keep the stitch lines inside the swirls and between the shapes a consistent distance apart. Mine are about 1/4". Continue making shapes, any thing with straight sides will work, fitting them together like a puzzle.
Remember that it's easier to sew a straight, straight line if your moving quickly and that if you want tight turns and corners that you must stop your hands momentarily at each turns, while you keep the machine going.
Hope you enjoy this stitch-out, I'll do another on Wednesday.
Till then,
Heather

2 comments:

mad elena said...

Good to have you back! And with another knockout stitch pattern to boot!
Hope your time off wasn't too stressful and you've happily & healthily recovered.

me said...

I second what Elena says- hope your challenges brought you some positive direction as well! You are such a special and loving person, you deserve all the best life has to offer!
Love today's stitch out! I need a new machine!!!!!
So glad to see you back! xo