Hand Quilting

If you are a reader of my blog, then you probably know I love American Jane quilts and fabrics. I decided to use my most favorite kit to make a baby quilt for a very special baby coming soon. This quilt top came together so fast. The ABC panel in the center is super cute.

 I am hand quilting this one. 

I have several other projects that I am working on, including a pretty paper piecing one. I will have to show you photos of it next time!

The Tortoise and the Hare

Life is outstanding when I have a few minutes to do some hand quilting, a baby tucked into bed fast asleep, and brownies baking in the oven! These moments are hard to come around these days, but I am not complaining :) 

This is a pattern from "Critter Caboodle" by Linda Hohag that I purchased from PIQF last year. This book has so many little creatures for applique. It's almost done and it's created for someone special!

This diamond pattern is just straight lines; they are so easy. 

Hope you all have a wondering Father's Day weekend!

Zakka Handmade - Part Two

While I was in Taiwan, I also took a doll making class. This may look familiar to many of you as I have tried to make one on my own in 2012. I learned so much from my class; it was worth every penny. The instructor showed me how to properly stuff dolls, how to create facial expression the right way, how to do the hair and how to join all body parts. I didn't have a lot of time but he tried to teach me as much as he could!

 OK, she is quite cute. Isn't she?! 

 Side view. 

I braided her hair! 

I carried this doll by hand all the way back on the plane back to the US!

Zakka Handmade - Part One

I am fascinated by the number of shops and studios in Taiwan that offer handmade items for sale or classes. Most of these classes are offered by authors who have written many books on items they make. I had the opportunity to take a few of those classes on my recent recent to Taiwan.

I made the pair of purple house slipper on the left. 

 This wonderful woman opened up her studio for me to learn from her!

This pair of shoes fit me perfectly and is machine-able and anti-slip! This instructor is extremely talented. Below are more photos of her studio and items she made.

 I love how she hangs her tools across the shelf.

 Fabrics nicely stacked.

 Coasters for students to use. 

Shoes she made for kids. The book shown is written by her.

 Quilts she made on display.

I adore this bag and wish I had more time to learn how to make it!

I highly recommend taking one of her classes if you are planning a visit to Taiwan in the near future!

Belgium

Gosh! It looks like I haven't blogged in almost a month! I came back from a very short trip to Brussels, Belgium. I am in love with that city and will plan to return in the near future.

 Manneken Pis

 Delicious chocolate shops everywhere!

I am sure most of you know that Belgium is famous for their chocolates, beers and waffles, but did you know that certain types of lace were originated in and around Brussels? I had a chance to visit some of their most famous lace shops.

 Dantelle Lace

 Handmade.

 

I think there is even a lace museum nearby!

I took an hour train ride to a beautiful town, called Bruges, nearby. If you ever visit Belgium, I highly recommend you stop by this town. It's in the Flemish region of Belgium, and it is referred to as the "Venice of the North." The market square and the cobblestone streets took me back to the Golden age!

A view of the world famous Market Square.

Ah! I forgot to mention these beautiful German Dovo scissors I got! I had no idea I would find classic and fantastic fabric scissors on this trip.

 Tiny little storefront operated by the nicest woman.

I got that pair of stork scissors and a simple pair of Dovo 6" fabric scissor. The scissor shown here all way on the left is entirely handmade and costs 300 Euros!

Until we meet again, Belgium! Thank you for a very productive and pleasant week.