Sunday, August 3, 2014

Binding and Applique

Not much slow stitching planned for today.  I do want to get the binding stitched down on my table topper.  I made it early this week to practice my machine quilting.  I am pleased so far with the results but this is a very small project.


 
I also need to work on Block #23.  I use the back basting method to add the buds and bud covers.  I find it is a great method to make sure you get the pieces right where you want them.  For those of you that are afraid to try applique, did you know the stitch you use to stitch down binding is the same stitch appliquers use in their applique!

Cute little buds


A little bud cover to finish them off!
 I also need to thread up some needles and put in a few hand quilting in the current quilt in the hoop. When working on so many different projects it can make it seem like things never get done. But I have come to a point in life, that I guess I understand it isn't about how fast but enjoying the process along the way.  I have also learned that if we keep putting a few slow stitches daily, things do get done! I am linking up with Kathy today to see what others are slow stitching.

35 comments:

  1. Enjoy your stitching today ...pretty flowers and I like that table topper! :)

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    1. Thanks Deb! I used a new method to make nine patches that was fun and I took a Craftsy class on walking foot quilting that had some great tips and ideas. It was so fun to try some techniques on this little table topper.

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  2. I have never tried back basting, I guess I should one day.

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    1. I think it comes in very handy! But for most things I use the freezer paper on top There are so many different ways to applique. I do know the starch or glue method very frustrating for me. Maybe if I took a class from an expert I would feel differently. For now I will just do what works for me.

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  3. Cute little table topper! They are a great way to try something new on a small scale

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    1. I agree I love doing minis and table toppers for that very reason. Thanks for stopping by.

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  4. Love your little flowers ... I need to try the backstitching method. I just can't seem to manage to control the shaping and turning under to do needleturn properly, maybe the backstitching method would be something I could do.

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    1. It is how I learned needleturn. It gave me the confidence as it keeps everything in place. I like to back baste and then let the project sit overnite so that the fabric keeps a better memory of the basting before you pull out the stitches.

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  5. Great table topper. Such pretty little flowers. Enjoy your relaxed stitching. I pretty much make for myself also so there is rarely pressure to get items done.

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    1. Yes who needs pressure! I hear so many complain about making quilt for someone and then find they don't like them. What are you crazy! I have gifted quilts but only when someone mentions that they they love quilts or love a particular quilt I am making. Quilting for your own enjoyment is the only way to go.

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  6. I'm with you on your philosophy about multiple projects. Enjoy the process!

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    1. Yes it's like taking a different path on the journey. We all enjoy variety no need to get bored.

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  7. That's a good way of thinking. A little at a time gets you there

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    1. Yes sir ree! Plus the added benefit of having a little me time everyday!

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  8. I also work on multiple projects. I just don't always feel like doing the same thing. I'm not sure I even know what back basting is. Maybe I do it and don't know I do! I also have trouble getting the shapes to my liking with needle turn applique.

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    1. There are a lot of tutorials on you tube. The internet is so great for at least showing the basics of a new way of doing things.

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  9. Absolutely! Enjoy stitching on every project :)

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    1. I got my binding done, now on to the applique. Mr Max insisted on two walks today, so not as much progress as I had hoped.

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  10. Having a few projects going helps me from getting bored. Everything is looking good!

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  11. Lovely tabletopper--I like those colors a lot...great quilting on it, too! I guess I like the freezer paper under with the starch and press method--the only project I've done and really liked was my butterflies using this method with my little iron for pressing. I will be trying this on another project soon--I am tired of BIG HUGE quilts for a bit. And who needs something else to tire you out. I am off to pick up my latest Nouveau Lady and do some hand work...neat post--hugs, Julierose

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    1. I am enjoying some small projects too. I want to make another bag and some of the zippered pouches. There are a lot of tutorials on line, always something to try and do.

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  12. Thanks for stopping by! You are so right it doesn't get better than that!

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  13. I love the colors of your applique blocks. I haven't done any applique in years & I admire those of you who do. Your table topper is great, too. You've got it right...enjoy the process!

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    1. I am very pleased that I opted to use a variety of greens. I actually picked them out after walking thru my garden. Mother Nature is so inspiring!

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  14. Your table topper looks great...it is a perfect way to try out new techniques. Your applique always looks perfect!!

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    1. It was fun to do the walking foot quilting. I have a woven quilt from Moda Bake shop that I want to try spiral quilting. But, I think I need a bit more practice before I try a big project.

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  15. So pretty! Yes, the back basting does help with accuracy. Great job on your little table topper.

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    1. Thanks Deb, I had a lot of fun making the table topper. Want to make some quilted zipper bags and practice some more machine quilting on them. Someday, I might get brave enough to try a bigger quilt.

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  16. I love your little table topper quilt! Just lovely!

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    1. Thanks Katy! I love the way it turned out too! It has given me confidence to try more machine quilting. Not ready for free motion but this straight stitching is something that I really enjoy.

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  17. You are so right-it's the process, not the product. I've learned I'm a great starter, but a lousy finisher.

    I like the texture in your table topper; the fabric looks like it's got stitching in it.

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    1. I love finishes, but only since I have really concentrated on what kind of quilt I want to make. I really narrowed down what kind of quilt I will even start, there is no way we can do them all.

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  18. I have some things that need the binding stitched down. But I want to finish something else first. Binding is not the exciting part.....except for the anticipation of really, really being done.

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