Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Coming Along!

It's coming along.  Two panels are complete and I'm really liking the way the red strips are playing off of each other.  The composition is taking me longer than I thought, but slow and steady is a good thing.
Let's continue reader appreciation month today!  I have four $20.00 gift certificates to give away, generously donated by Kathy, of Pink Chalk Fabrics.  Kathy is a big supporter of this blog and sewing and quilting in general.  If you have a minute, drop by to say thanks and do a little shopping!

For the first two, I'm going to draw from all the comments since the last giveaway and for the next two I'll draw from all the comments on this post.

If you'd like a chance to win, comment today and tell me something that you'd like to learn or see on this blog in the future.  Have a great rest of the week!  I'm off to see if someone in Chicago carries Kona snow.  I ran out this morning.   Arrrg!

PS...I'll draw the winners on Friday!

144 comments:

Nancy said...

what I would like to see is HOW you do your improv blocks. Do you just hunk and sew? or is there some kind of plan?

Laurel said...

i'm with nancy - my concern with doing slash and sew randomly is that you'd get biases pulling in wonky directions. i have trouble with that!

Pat Merkle said...

This is going to be a stunning quilt!

beth said...

yes, how to/tutorial on improvisational work. love that idea.

hollymade said...

I'd love to hear where you go fabric shopping in Chicago! I haven't found a little quilt shop to frequent, so I've been buying most fabric online-I'd love somewhere I could go in and browse in person.

CitricSugar said...

That quilt top is coming along beautifully... I'm already curious about how you'll quilt it.

Brenda said...

well, I always want to see more of what you're doing. while we're at it, how about pix of those 30+ quilts at your house.

Elizabeth said...

What an interesting quilt in progress! I like that the red is more dense at the top and fades out toward the bottom. Great work!

sally in st. paul said...

one thought. take a piece of your current Kona snow with you. One of my friends had to supplement a Kona blue, and even though it was identified as the same color, the shade was different.
I am ex cited to see your completed design
sally in st. paul

Lynn said...

Really like this design, I've gotten a lot of inspiration from your blog in the past. Although I can still struggle with letting go and just improving, it think it takes time.

Molly said...

I'd like to learn english paper piecing or just paper piecing in general. Seems like the next step in my learning process ....

Shayla said...

Your quilts are so different and inspiring! I'd like to see your design process on quilts like these.

Kate said...

Yes, what Nancy (first comment) said! HOW do you do your quilts??? They're lovely and I'm not sure I'd be able to come up with the designs myself either, but assuming I would have a design - HOW would I make the quilt? (is there a book that details the methods you use?)
steeplechaser29 at yahoo dot com

Helmus said...

I've enjoyed reading your blog because it's not just about quilting--you include tidbits and stories from your life. Quilt blogs in general have a tendency to be one-dimensional, and none of us are.

Becky (My Fabric Obsession) said...

I love what you are doing with the red and white and I woul love to know what your process is. Do you plan those before you sew?

Di~ said...

Just your basic techniques and tips, because your work is immaculate. I'd like to integrate those things into my sewing. Thanks Jacquie.

Aliceart said...

Oooo, fun! I'd like to see how you play in the firstage of ideas like this or the bridges quilt. What are you thinking as you begin to take your idea from stray thoughts to initial design? Do you play step but step?

Thank you for the giveaway, but more than that, for the chance to pick a very creative brain.

Mary P said...

I'd love to see how you develop patterns. That is always a mystery to me. Like how did you develop your Cogs quilt?

As for Kona snow, Quiltology or Joann's would have some, but I agree with others--bring a swatch with you to be sure!!

Annaliese said...

I guess what intrigues me is also along the lines of the improv techniques, how do u keep very slender strips strait?? I always have some warpring.especially when pressing. Otherwise, more of the same! Love you blog, and your quilts. :)

stitchinpenny said...

Something I would like to learn from your blog - I don't know. I love to see what you do and be inspired, but I would hate to try to force you into an uninspired project. I guess anything you truly want to be is good.

Amorette said...

i love to see your tutorials, but pics of WIPs are great for inspiring future projects, esp with a semi description of the process, without the detail of a tutorial. thanks!

Alexis Deise said...

Like others, I would love to see a series on your improv process. I do a lot of improv piecing and I am always interested to see how others do it.

Colby said...

I love this piece! How do you plan a piece like this?

Sharon said...

I'm loving the whole modern quilt movement. I like watching your blog to see what you are up to next. What I'd like to learn is now to quilt my tops all by my little self. Thanks for the inspiration!

Melissa Corry said...

I love seeing your improv piecing. It really helps me to be inspired to break out of my little box of always having a plan :)

Valerie said...

I'd like to see the mechanics of improv sewing too - do you spray starch the crap out of things to keep them straight?

KateKwiltz said...

I found snow at Quiltology, none at Joann's -- if you need it in a pinch, I just bought some out in the 'burbs, not using it today...

Youth Hostile said...

Your last comment about scouring Chicago for some Kona Snow has me thinking...

What I'd like to see sometime on your blog would be a tour of Chicago's best quilting and sewing spots. It'd be like tourism for all of us who hope to make it to Chicago someday. Maybe it would start a trend, and I would get to see lots of great quilting places around the world.

Laura said...

Once again I'm reminded that I really need to get a design wall going. I can't wait to see how this quilt shapes up :)

Hannah said...

I agree with a lot of the other comments - I'd love to see a little bit more of your thought process when it comes to making your quilts. Thanks so much!

Erin said...

I'd like a post that shows the evolution of your quilt design in photos. What did you do 10 years ago? 5 years ago? etc. up to your very favorite most recent project.

Tanya said...

Good luck in your search for Kona Snow :). I often have to just buy online.

Sharon said...

I'd like to learn more about finishing odd shaped projects. I have some hexagon placemats and binding them is giving me fits!

Kelly @ Vintage Fabric Studio said...

I'd like to tackle more intricate quilt patterns this year...I want to be more adventurous! Thanks for another giveaway!

redheadwiththread said...

The quilt is looking great! Quiltology does have a limited amount of Kona. Last time I checked, The Needle Shop wasn't carrying it though.

Emily said...

I'd love to read some about color composition when mixing solids with prints. Although I think you use mostly solids, am I right?

Flaun of I Plead Quilty! said...

Nothing worse than running out of a fabric in the middle of a project. Good luck! I have the hardest time finding enough Kona colors in stock to get what I really want.

What I'd love to see on your blog is a recap of a visit to the Minneapolis MQG (that's mine)! Maybe you could come for a tour when your book is printed.

Cami said...

I've been asked to do a red, black and white quilt for a charity auction. Of course I came to your site for inspiration--and got it!! Thanks a ton!

DianeY said...

More sewing-less skiing!! Joking! I cracked up at your last post-reminded me of my son suggesting hang-gliding. I respectably declined!

Michele T said...

Your quilt design is striking... can't wait to see the finished creation!!

Irelle said...

Your work facinates me. This quilt is going to be amazing.

Elsa said...

Your slash quilt is coming along nicely. I'm up for learning just about anything. I moved to Portland, OR a few years ago and was lucky enough to meet some women that are really knowledgeable in the quilting area. I've learned so much and I'm really grateful to them.
Thanks for the giveaway and really looking forward to seeing how this quilt turns out!

Gill said...

I love your red and white! I'd like to learn more about free/improv cutting!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jacquie,

Try Quitology on Diversey. She carries a decent selection (though not nearly as extensive as Kathy) of Kona Solids. According to their website, they have Kona Snow in stock.

Just keep doing what you're doing. Love the inspiration you provide and the skiing stories. That one made me laugh - we've all been there before.

How about a quilt-a-long. It can be a sampler and you can show us some "modern twists" on traditional blocks.

Take Care,
Dianne

PS: Can you possibley write a post on fabric shopping in Chicago. I am very curious where you shop (now that you are officially a Chicagoan!) for your modern fabrics. The best local shop I've found is Quiltoloty. I primarily shop on-line.

Melanie said...

I really love all of your posts and your quilts. They are so different from most other (even modern) quilting blogs. This particular quilt helps me out quite a bit as I was trying desperately to come up with a "Play on Jakeb's ladder" quilt in blue and white. I wanted a modern version for my Jakeb:) Thank you as always for inspiring my quilting mind!

Megan said...

Kathy is so awesome - great selection and fantastic customer service! I find your quilts very inspirational and am always on the lookout for process posts. I love to read about the design aesthetic and why certain choices were made.

Anonymous said...

Love the red and white quilt! Joanne's on Elston Ave. has Kona solids, hopefully Snow is in stock. The Needle Shop in Bucktown (my hood) has a great selection of prints, but not too much solids.

Good luck!

nancyjcoyle@gmail.com

Nicole said...

I love watching your creations evolve. Thanks for sharing. More of the same please!

jenny said...

I'd be interested to know what motivated you to write your book.

MollyP said...

I am lovin' all your improv piecing here lately. Your bridges quilt is amazing. Keep doin' what you're doin', lady!

Allie said...

I love your improv work, and the minimalisticness (is that even a word?) is stunning. I would love to see how you put something like this together.

patty a. said...

Kona snow? I have a whole bolt - too bad we do not live closer! I would like to learn how you get inspired and how to find the right path to follow. What motivates you to explore new ideas and when do you know that an idea has run its course?

Northern Deb said...

Love your quilts and color choices... AND I LOVE KONA SNOW. We had a sale at the lqs this past weekend and I bought all that she had left on the bolt of Kona Snow.. 8-3/4 yards... that should do me for a little bit :) Thats one fabric that should always be in a sewing room.
I love seeing your modern take on quilts and would love to see more.

Doris said...

Kathy at Pink Chalk is awesome, period. I've won one of her weekly giveaways before and she is so generous, kind and helpful when you need something she doesn't have in stock!

Your red and white blocks are shaping up nicely. Looking forward to watching the progress.

Deb said...

i would like a little more info on incorporating white space, especially in your pomegranate quilt from your pre market sewing post way back early last year (I so truly love that quilt.....).

tutto a posto said...

I would like to see some reverse applique. Good luck finding more Kona Snow...

Anne said...

I'm with everyone else on the process for your improv. Where do you begin?

Unknown said...

I'm thinking I'm going to have to invest in Kona Snow.... a QAL I'm doing used KS for the basic-tie-it-all-together fabric. Sounds like my kinda stuff.

goletagirlwendy said...

I would like to see how you do your improve pieces, the whole process. Also, putting colors together, something I struggle with a lot.

Heidi Staples said...

I agree with some of the other comments on here: I'd love to hear your inspiration, planning, and methods for improv work. Thanks for the giveaway!

Debbie said...

Where do you get the inspiration for your quilts? I love them. Also loved the ski story!

Sonia B said...

I love Pink Chalk Fabrics . . . they are always so prompt and helpful. I'd love to know how you do improv . . . stitch and cut and stitch again? Thanks for the chance and for all your quilty inspiration.

folksmith said...

looking forward to the purchasing the cog quilt pattern. love your designs!

Mikelle said...

I would like to see more of how you put your blocks together...improvisation is so foreign to me!

carol said...

Too bad you didn't stop in Wisconsin on your way home from skiing. "Patched Works" in Elm Grove carries all the Kona colors.

Kelsey said...

I'd love to see how you put together your improv work. :)

Kristy said...

I can't wait to see this as a finished project. It is looking really good so far!

audreypawdrey said...

It is looking so neat right now! I would love to hear how you keep things from becoming distorted as you pieces different pieces into a line, especially when you are using angles. Mine always start becoming skewed...

Elle said...

It really does look fantastic! I'd also like to know more about your process. Also, I imagine it may already come around naturally, but I'd love to know the ins and outs of the book process. How you knew when you had enough material, how you found a publisher, etc. Also, though I know it is rude to some to talk money, I'd like to know what you think you'll end up making versus how many hours you put into the book. A friend of my mom's who had a NYT best seller on color theory (related to polymer clay) told my mom that the actual financial rewards of even a best-seller still amount to less than minimum wage, and so I'm wondering if that is also true for quilt books.
Anyway, I'm glad you survived the skiing uninjured and excited about seeing the progress on your quilt. Did you ever check out the Quilt store I mentioned out in the burbs - "Quilter's Heaven". Their number is 847-272-7245 if you want to call to see if they carry the snow. I had such a good time in there when I was visiting family in Glenview - wish I lived nearby. They have a long-arm there that is so fun to watch, though I think they only use programs rather than hand-guiding for custom work.

Sharon said...

Take some of your Kona Snow with you. I did a BOM and got different shades of snow. When I went to the shop, we pulled out 5 bolts of Snow and every one was different! Just an fyi. I'm loving this piece.

EG said...

Well I don't know if you're a naturally adventurous person, but I'd like a how-to of becoming improvisational. I'm an instruction-follower myself.

Jenny said...

id love to see your fabric storage. scrap storage etc. im most excited to take your class in June!!

Suzanne said...

I really enjoy when you share the parts of your quilt making that might be classified as bloopers. The other part that I am really interested in learning is the process but that's something much harder to share. Would you consider hooking yourself up to a mind reading monitor that would teletype the thoughts that pass through while you design? That's what I want to read about. (Even the expletives--if there are any.)

KerryQ said...

I wold love to see a project from conception. Do you start with a drawing? Thanks for the chance at more fabric goodness.

Katie said...

I love your fresh take on quilting, so I want to see what you have next up your sleeve. Like someone else asked, do you sketch prior to starting? Do any research? Or is your process organic?

I am also eagerly awaiting your reveal of the finished bridges quilt.

Mary on Lake Pulaski said...

I just received a big order from Kathy at Pink Chalk. I would love to see the steps you take in choosing fabric for a project.

Margie said...

I'm with most everyone else re: interest in your composition techniques and aspects of the total process - even if it's just to learn that it's purely intuitive. Love your work. Thank you for the giveaway and all that you share.

April said...

I would love to see more information on where you start your process - do you make sketches? work from photos? I was very intrigues by this idea as you worked on your Bridges quilt top.

Shirley said...

I would love to know how you come to a decision over the actual quilting design. I know that you collaborate with people who sometimes quilt for you , but how do you or they decide, is there a rule of thumb so to speak. Great quilt btw.

Alli said...

I think it would be fun to hear about how you shop for fabric! :)

Valerie said...

Ooo, love that quilt! Try Quiltology quilt shop, in Lincoln Park- they likely have Knoa Snow. Hmmm, something I'd like to learn....how about the design process. I always love hearing how people take something from their head and turn it into something tangible.

rachael {imagine gnats} said...

wow! that looks fabulous :) i've been working on a quilt inspired by one of your older ones and i'd love to try something like this as well. thanks for sharing your work!

Unknown said...

I am a fan of Pink Chalk, so I would be thrilled to get a gift cert. I would not mind seeing how you put these improv blocks together. Thank you so much for your blog.

~Michelle~ said...

I'm really interested in seeing how you quilt this? Or are you going to send it to Angela to work her magic?

JaneRH said...

Would love to know how you plan to quilt your 'display' pieces...do you have something in mind as you piece or do you decide when it's finished? Would love to hear about your quilting process! Thanks.

krislovesfabric said...

Would love to see more on how you made those wonderful bridge blocks! Thanks for the chance to win!

Janet said...

Please tell us more about your inspiration and process for the improv quilts.

wintunancy said...

I love Pink Chalk Fabrics and love your style of quilting/piecing. Thank you to both of you for sharing with us.

PMookie said...

I'd like to read how you decide to quilt your quilts and see the quilting.

Your work is one-of-a-kind. It inspires me.

audrey said...

It would be interesting to find out what you consider your 'defining' projects in developing your style and how you recognized that.

Jess @ Elven Garden Quilts said...

Your blog is definitely one of the most inspirational out there. I'd just like to continue to be inspired ny your work :)

Lisa E said...

I'd like to see more about your thought processes when you make a quilt. How do you decide which direction to follow?

Patty said...

I would enjoy reading about your process for choosing fabric. Pictures of the fabrics you pull, audition on your design wall, with an explanation of your process and why you go in the direction you choose. Love your quilts, keep up the good work!(this new red/white one is stunning!)

Lesley said...

I am fascinated by improvising. I don't think I am very good at it. I would love to know any tips.

Erika Mulvenna said...

Yes, very nice! I love the red and white together, it is very Swiss!

Sequana said...

MariAnn Fons was in Chicago a couple years back shopping with her daughter for quilting fabric. I was surprised to learn there even WAS a fabric shop in the city. I think it must have been the one on Diversey - I remember it being mid-north somewhere. Even in the burbs, fabric is a scare commodity.

kimmysue said...

Well, I just stumbled upon your blog, so I guess it's my lucky day. I would like to see more of what I see here already- it looks like your quilts are very fresh and modern and I like that. I am finding it mildly amusing that you ran out of Kona snow fabric today- I had to read that twice- the first time I missed the word "Kona" and the sentence took on a whole different meaning. I'll send you some snow! Oh, different kinda snow, I see.... Thanks for the giveaway. Pink Chalk Fabrics is one of my favorite quilty fabric websites.

Kelli said...

Kathy is great and man, could I make use of that gift certificate! Thanks, Jacquie!

Esch House Quilts said...

Do you sketch before you start a project or just dive in?

Stacie Davis said...

I just love Pink Chalk! As a beginner I would love to know more basics. That may be too basic for your readers, but every little tip is getting soaked up like a sponge by people like me!

Sharon T said...

Love your red and snow quilt! I would love to see more improv tutorials. Just keep those quilts coming...they're fabulous!

Mary Anne said...

I like the idea of a quilt along...however, it would have to be Jacquie style! No two quilts would look alike because you would encourage independent thought and give free creative rein. You'd be our Quilt Mentor...instead of a quilt along leader. Definitely not your run-of-the-mill QAL!!! Doesn't it sound like fun - Please say "YES!"

Jessica said...

Like many others, I'd love some how-to's regarding your improv sewing. :)

Janessa said...

this is such an inspiring quilt! I love it and I could go crazy picking out fabric from Pink Chalk!!! love love love!

sko_G knits said...

i would like to see or read about how you go about deciding/designing the quilting you will do on a final piece.

Ebeth said...

Between this and your bridge quilt, I really admire your use of negative space. I can't wait to see both finished products!!


lwghosts at yahoo dot com

Dolores said...

Gee I love your style! Your quilts are really like artworks and the fabrics are your canvas (that might sounds like a cliche but I don't know how else to describe it). Anyway, this newest quilt is looking gorgeous!! What I'd like to see from this blog, more about your craft room maybe, how you organise your fabrics/notions; how you start off your quilts, do you sketch an idea or just start piecing things together? Thanks to Pink Chalk for the giveaway too. dxx

Ella said...

Very cool improv panels!

Mom C said...

I don't know what to suggest. I enjoy your posts and love to see the progress on your creations. They are amazing to me. Thanks.

Allison C said...

Would love to see a tutorial on paper piecing. Your quilt looks great so far!

Carol said...

I'd like to know a little more about the planning process....if you start out with a definite plan in mind, or does it develop as you sew...and if so, a little explanation on that.

Jennie P. said...

I am a beginner quilter, so I have much to learn. Any kinds of tutorials and educational things you post would be helpful. I think fabric selection and how to go about choosing fabrics for a cohesive quilt design is something I'm most interested in learning.

Marilee said...

What you are doing with this red and white blows me away!

FlourishingPalms said...

I just enjoy seeing what you're making, especially when you're working only with solids. Oh my! I learned quilting from a traditional perspective, so it's amazing to me to see someone like you, who's relatively new to quilting, trying to - and succeeding! - at creating something from nothing. You are blessed with a real gift.

Millie and Walter said...

I would like to see more of how you come up with your ideas and then translate them to fabric.

Cindy

Marjorie said...

Show us the evolution from inspiration to finished project. Does it just rattle around in your brain and then *POOF* you grab the right fabrics and whack them into size...or is there doodling, editing, practice blocks, piles of "failures" that you just decide work, etc.

Ashley O. in WA said...

I like seeing what you think of next. We have lots of snow here, but it isn't Kona.

Unknown said...

I'd like to see a post that says you are coming to SLC and bringing alond my autographed copy of 'the book':)

Tamie said...

I love seeing the process. Also, where do you fabric shop in Chicago? Thanks for sharing.

Marit said...

Love the look of this, Jaquie!
I would like you to share some of your studio organization tips. Do you keep scraps?
; )

Thank you for hosting a generous giveaway!

Lindsey said...

I have to agree with the other commenters who want to know how you put together your improv blocks. Some of the stuff you do just totally blows me away, it's so awesome!

Pomegranate Quilts said...

Thanks for this great giveaway!

I would love to see you working with Robert Kaufman Radiance (silk-cotton). It looks gorgeous, and it would be a treat to see what you make with it!

Jill said...

This is going to be a fun quilt. I would love to see how you design. I always say I can make anything from a pattern but can't make up my own designs.

Carla said...

I would love to see more of your process. How it all flows. Thanks!

SusieDW said...

I'm enjoying all of the comments from others. I have a couple of questions: 1. how wide are the vertical panels for this quilt?
2. how do you keep track of and store your remnant scraps accumulated from each creation?
3. do you meditate for direction during the creation and piecing phase?
4. do you create with the quilt pattern in mind or do you consider those two phases separately?
Thanks Jacquie!
Susie

Janet said...

I would love to see how you do curves. And, try Quiltology for the Kona Snow in Chicago - maybe call first. The other nice store is The Needle Shop, but they don't carry any solids. Happy Hunting!
Janet
jmbyerwalter at gmail dot com

Patti said...

I think I like this one almost as much as Building Bridges! The red is spectacular!
I am also interested in how your very creative mind works!

Margaret said...

Hope you found some Snow! As many people have already mentioned, I would love to see more on the process, too.

monique said...

I've bought fabric from Pink Chalk Fabrics - It's a wonderful shop with great service! As for what I would like to see.... more of the same! I love your work. Hearing your thoughts and seeing your progress is a peak into the mind of a wonderful artist. Thanks for sharing!

Chancy said...

Can't wait to see this quilt finished! Thanks for the giveaway!

chancyf (at) gmail (d0t) com

cakegirl said...

I see that Hollymade has already asked the question on my mind - where do you shop for fabric in the Chicago area? Besides Quiltology, which is very limited in selection, I am at a loss. Sometimes you don't want to wait for an online purchase, you want it NOW!

LoriF said...

would love to see some of your first quilts.

Bry said...

Id love to learn how your doing all this angled piecing!

Ally said...

I don't have anything specific I just love keeping up with your blog! Thanks!

Malealyn said...

Oh _ this is lovely. I really can't wait to see where it goes! It reminds me of some printmaking I saw students working with a few years ago. Stunning. Thank you for sharing.

Diane E W said...

I'm loving this..can't wait to see the quilt when it is finished. Always like to see how you think outside the box or should I say block.

lindaroo said...

A quilt-along with your view on color selection, balance and composition, and know how would be wonderful. Yes, please, hold my hand as I take little steps into new territories!
And I sure enjoy glimpses of your urban home, and your big dog, and your new city! If you're comfortable sharing more, it would be delightful!

Cory said...

I want to learn FMQ Feathers and Swirls. Those are next on my list to master. Thank you for the chance to win a great prize. Take care and God bless, Cory

Anonymous said...

Alwaya checking for more pictures of unusual designs and some helpful easy directions used as a simply guildline that has no bounds. Thanks for your site. Valerie

Jen B said...

Would love to a post on your process for composing the red and white quilt.

Marcia W. said...

Yes, I would like a tutorial as I'm stuck on using regular polygons and my seams are sometimes wobbly. Also, thanks for the giveaway. I've had issues with blogger so hope this comment posts. The red and white are great to see coming up on Valentine's Day. Good work!

Unknown said...

I'm always interested in the quilting stage and what a person decides to do once they have a lovely quilt. I think your work is beautiful :)

Maggy said...

Houah!!!! je suis "baba"
Jacqueline, je vais copier certaines de tes idées que j'aime .Merci pour ce blog
Maggy

ginevra said...

I'd like to see a post on your favourite artists or non-quilty crafters... a bit about your inspirations & how they relate to your quilts.