A Penny Gathering Center Block...

Brynwood Needleworks - A Penny Gathering - Center Block

I haven't worked on this small quilt for a while, so I thought I'd set up the center block. That way, it's ready to stitch when I am (likely, later this week).

 

After I complete the center block, my next step will be to create a number of half square triangle (HST) blocks (each measuring 1" square finished!). Those blocks will be a border all the way around the large center block. Then, The small floral blocks are sewn into position around the center motifs.

The embroidery won't take me all that long, and I'm really looking forward to making those mini HSTs. Yep. I'm really looking forward to doing that. Uh, huh.

There'll be more once that much is done, but I'll tell you about it when I get to it.The finished quilt only measures 27" square, so there's a lot of detail packed into a small project. I'll work on this one for a while. until I need another break, and go back to working on one of the other unfinished projects. I'm not sure having these multiple projects in progress is a good thing or a bad thing. What do you think?

Stitching Today...

Brynwood Needleworks - My "Everlasting" Center In Progress

 

I'll be at Kathy D's today. She's hosting Sit & Stitch at her home, and we're all looking forward to it. I spent part of yesterday planning and designing a personalized center for my version of the "Everlasting" quilt. I know that all the flowers and birds need the bees to survive, so it was appropriate to change out the wording in the original design to a skep and bees in my quilt.

Brynwood Needleworks - My "Everlasting" Center Design Vision

Here's my rough rendering. Once I've stitched down the skep, I'll be adding embroidered lavender stems and buds. There will be bees scattered around the central motif, too! When all my stitching is finished, I'll add a bow at the bottom where the mirror-image sprays of lavender meet in the middle.

 

This is the project I'll work on at Kathy's today. I'm really looking forward to spending a little time with the ladies. It's past due, for sure. 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" - BW Farmhouse Block Substitution

I've completed the last two main blocks for my "Everlasting" quilt project. As you know, I've changed something in almost every block, and this one is the most drastic. I made a Compass Barn block, including our three dogs (HERE), and I knew I was going to do a block that resembled our farmhouse.

This is my adaptation of our farmhouse. Of course, I've taken a few liberties with its features, but I've captured most of the main ones in my block. The stone wall, window mullions, and porch rail are all represent.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" - Pincushion Flower - Box 10

I also stitched out the last block, Box 10's Pincushion Flower. You can see the differences between the two images. All the changes were in my stitch choices on the pink flower blossom.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Brynwood Blocks

This is a photograph of all my completed blocks. We had a rainy day yesterday, so I took this picture of all the blocks laid out on my bed. I had a lamp on, which apparently threw off the uppermost right corner block. It isn't as yellow as it appears. It's also a beige fabric, similar to the beige color in the other beige blocks.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Center Block (Dark Sections)

This is the center block as shown in my finishing kit. If you don't know, I'm not a fan of putting the wording onto my pieces, so I'm working on how I'm going to complete my quilt differently than the pattern. I haven't worked out my version yet, but I'll make my decisions very soon.

In the meantime, I have to square up my completed main blocks and assemble the balance of each block. I'll show you my progress soon.

Today is laundry and breadmaking day. One not quite as much fun for me as the other. You decide which is which. Tag will be here tomorrow, and I'll see you again on Wednesday.

When I Wasn't Outside...

Brynwood Needleworks - My Farmhouse Block for the "Everlasting" Quilt

Handsome and I mowed our lawn yesterday. It typically takes a couple of hours (even using two riding mowers!), so we had some nice time enjoying the outdoors. 

Of course, I spent time with Crystal and her kittens, making sure Crystal has plenty of food and fresh milk to support her babies. They're nicely situated in the dog crate, so it will be easier to transport them later today without too much disruption. (Don't get me started or I'll start crying again.) I also got in some great cuddle time with Mrs. Katz. She's such a sweetheart. She loves the attention.

When I finally came back inside late yesterday, I started stitching on my Farmhouse block. I'm finished except for the porch rails and a little stonework. I'm just contemplating how I want to stitch them. I'll figure it out later today.

The kitties all go to the rescue at 6:30 tonight, when Claudette will be back from the Madison vet who provides the spay and neuter services for their rescue facility. I'll be babying her to make sure she heals well, and it will help keep my mind off the two girls (and kittens) leaving. Wish me luck with that, okay?

Once my farmhouse block is finished, I only have one flower block to go. Maybe I'll show you all the blocks together tomorrow! We'll see...

My "Everlasting" Signature Block...

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" House - Box 4

 

I completed another house block for the "Everlasting" quilt. This will be the signature block when the quilt is complete. 

What did I change on this block? Well, for starters, I stitched fewer panes on the windows, and then I outlined them. The pattern pieces for the house (grey) and roof were designed to sit next to each other (as opposed to overlapping), so I wanted to use a different treatment for the join on the house piece. I decided to do a more decorative chain stitch along the eaves.

 

I also chose different threads for the trees and roof, as I wanted the threads to blend, not contrast. Finally, I stitched my initials on the door.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" House Box 4 & Colonial House

 

These two blocks will be placed across from each other in the finished quilt layout. I have one house (which I've modified to look like Hickory Hill Farmhouse), and a flower block left to stitch toward completing the quilt. 

Once they're finished, I'll work on the center section. I'll decide ahead of time how I'm going to change it because I don't want to have words as they appear in the pattern.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" House Windows

So, when I compare these two house blocks, one has the windows outlined, while the other doesn't. Do you think I should leave them as is, or add outlines to the windows on the block on the left? Let me know in the comments, please.

 

More Blocks...

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Colonial House Box 5

 Two more completed. Three to go! 

I didn't change much on this block. The base of the tree is different, and I added a knothole. I added another set of panes to the dormer window, and instead of the star on the front door, I decided to make this my date block. (I'll add my initials on a different block.)

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Primrose Flower Box 11

There are only two changes on this block - I added the curly veins on the leaves, and more Colonial knots on the flower centers. Otherwise they're the same.

I'll get the last three blocks finished this week, and then I'll be tackling the large center block. I think it's coming together nicely. Tag will be back to visit tomorrow. Happy Monday!

Five To Go...

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Peony Flower Box 9

I got sidetracked yesterday with a few errands (can't wait to share one of them with you soon!), so I only completed one block. This is the Peony Flower block from Wool Box 9.

 

I used the same threads called for in the pattern, but I think we just used different areas of the Valdani variegated threads. I added small blanket stitch wheel sections at the top of the green stems. I added chain stitch veining on the leaves, and finally, I added closer stitching, radiating the blanket stitch on the pink part of the blossoms.

 

I'm already working on #5, as I count down through the final five blocks. I'll likely have these completed by the end of the weekend. (squeeee!) Of course, I have other things to do before this project will be complete (the center applique' and block), and of course, squaring up all the blocks for assembly. That will all take more time. Of course, I'll share everything as I continue working on this project.

 

Two More...

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Bleeding Heart Box 12

 

These are my latest finished blocks for the "Everlasting" project. You can see my changes on this block from the pattern. I'm especially fond of my treatment where the flowers meet the top of the stem. I love how it turned out. 

 

I also changed the stitches for the magenta tips, adding a Colonial knot at the ends. Then I added the veining on the leaves to complete the block. (I still don't think they look like bleeding hearts, though.)

 

Brynwood Needleworks - "Everlasting" Canna Flower Box 12

Let's see. On this one, I changed the stitching on the flower petals and their attachments to the stem. I also added a blanket stitch wagon wheel at the top of the stem, and then changed the veining on the leaves. Do you like? Six blocks to go! 

 

By the way, if you're interested in creating your own "Everlasting" quilt, the kits are available from Primitive Gatherings. I got mine over the course of a year through the Wool Box subscription, but you can get everything all at once. Click HERE to check out the kit. Why should I be the only one having fun, right?

 

This Weekend's Needlework...

Brynwood Needleworks - My Version of Boho Flower

It was so nice this weekend that I spent more time outdoors than in, but I did manage to get a little needle dancing done.

This is my version of the "Boho Flower" from the "Everlasting" project. Mine's not so Boho. I decided to use Colonial knots in the very center of the flower, rather than the star. I also chose to use Colonial knots instead of the fly stitches around the outside of it, making mine a little more formal, I think.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - My Version of Marigold Flower

 

Like the other mustard-colored bloom, I changed this one out to a lavender pink (It's showing more pink on my computer, but it cants toward light purple. I also opted to make the inner stitches alternate lengths, instead of all the same. 

This one isn't quite finished, though. I'm going to add the same stitches to the smaller blossoms, and I think those stems need a little embellishing. Then it will be complete.

More to come this week, but we're busy with a few outside and inside projects, too. I also have an appointment with a new doctor, as my Green Bay specialist isn't coming back for the foreseeable future, and they're cancelling all his patient appointments. I'll be driving to Milwaukee to meet my new doctor this Thursday. (I remain hopeful.)

Two More Finished...

Brynwood Needleworks.- Everlasting - Flower Sprig Box 1

 

More needlework over the weekend, resulting in two more completed blocks in the "Everlasting" set. For this one, I substituted the mustard blooms for a soft lavender.

 

Brynwood Needleworks.- Everlasting - Flower Sprig Box 1 Detail

 

You can see the difference in the flower centers. I stitched the bouillon knots, but then added Colonial knots around the center. I'm happy with this one!

 

Brynwood Needleworks.- Everlasting - Tulip Box 2

 

Next up was the Tulip Block from PG Wool Box 2. These colors are recurring colors in the design. Some of my favorites, too!

 

Brynwood Needleworks.- Everlasting - Tulip Box 2 Detail

I think the only thing I did differently were the leaves. I used a running stitch, instead of the stem stitch in the leaf centers. I admit, it looks more like a back stitch on the wool, but I assure you, it was stitched as a running stitch. Everything else remained true to the pattern.

Tag will be back tomorrow. Oh, boy! Is he in hot water! I'll let him tell you about it. I'll be back on Wednesday.

 

Newest Completed Blocks...

Brynwood Needleworks - Four New Finished "Everlasting" Blocks

 

I drove back home on Tuesday, so I'm home again as you read this. I took a few "Everlasting" blocks with me so I could sit and embroider them while I visited with my sister. 

 

I really enjoyed my short time with her and her husband. We had a lovely visit. These are the four blocks I completed while away.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Rose Bud Block

 

I'm showing closeups of each of the blocks to show you how I changed my design from the original. I added Colonial knots around the buds on this block. I did add a chain stitch detail to these leaves (not shown).

Brynwood Needleworks - Geranium Block

 

My stitches are consistently smaller than the patterns, and for this block, this is about the only change. I love this design - geraniums being one of my favorite flowers. I may go back and add more detail to the leaves, too.

Brynwood Needleworks - Bird (Chickadee) Block

 

I added more leaf sprigs to my chickadee block, along with stitching to add dimension to the berries. I you compare the bird's tail on the pattern, you'll notice I stitched fly stitches on mine, instead of straight stitches.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Box 8 Flower

Finally, I added Colonial knots to the center of the gold-colored section on this flower. I wanted to add a little dimension to it. I like how it changed the look of the flower. 

One other thing I wanted to mention for those who may not know. I cross my cross stitches opposite from the cross stitches on Lisa's patterns. It doesn't matter which way you cross your stitches, as long as you are consistent. If you cross them in different directions on the same piece, those mistakes will stick out like sore thumbs when the light hits them differently. Here endeth the lesson. (wink)

First Four Finished...

Brynwood Needleworks - PG "Dragonfly Dreams" Blocks 1-4  

These are the first four blocks of the latest Primitive Gatherings Wool Box project. This will have more blocks that will eventually become a quilt. 

 

They arrived in what was supposed to be my last subscription box, as I intended to let someone else have my spot. When I saw them and knew they were the first of more to come, I immediately jumped back into the program. I can't wait to see what the rest of the blocks look like, and I'm looking forward to stitching all of them.

For now, my stitching is up to date with these blocks, and I'll make it my plan to stitch future blocks as soon as they arrive, so I don't get behind on this project.

Brynwood Needleworks - 75 yard roll Heat n Bond Feather Lite Fusible

There's another thing I'd like to share today. I've been going through a lot of fusible bond with my wool projects, and up until now, I'd swear by a product called Soft Fuse™. I like that it is really lightweight, and it doesn't gum up my needles when I stitch through it.

When I was at Lisa Bongean's home for Sit & Stitch, she shared nice-sized pieces of this Heat n Bond Feather Lite™, and after trying it, I'm a convert. I went online and found that I could purchase it (at a reasonable price) from Walmart (online only), so I ordered it.

Brynwood Needleworks - Package Info Heat n Bond Feather Lite Fusible

The price couldn't have been better. At $104.58 a box (with free shipping) this averages out to $1.40/yard. If you use fusible for your applique' - especially wool applique' - you know you go through a lot of fusible. I snagged a box to sit on my cutting table, and I won't have to worry about running out for a while. I thought you might like to know about the savings, too.

I've started working on the 2018 "A Penny Gathering" blocks now. I'll show you how I'm coming after tomorrow. Tag can't wait to update you on Bella and Carly and how out pack is doing now that the puppy has returned. I'll see you Wednesday!

"Everlasting" - Part Two...

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' - "Everlasting" Blocks 11-12

 

I managed to finish setting up the rest of my "Everlasting" quilt blocks yesterday. I'm actually lucky to have finished all the blocks, considering that I had a bit of an accident in the process. I'll spare you the gory details (photos are on my personal FB page if you're interested), but long story short, I punctured myself in the thigh with my very, very sharp Karen Kay Buckley scissors, and bled a lot!

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' - "Everlasting" Blocks 9-10

 

Once I got that all under control, I forged ahead on this project, and can now crow that they'll all be ready to sit down and stitch when the spirit moves me.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' - "Everlasting" Blocks 7-8

 

By the time Handsome called from Macon, GA last night, I could tell him all the blocks were done, and I avoided a trip to the emergency room.

 

Back to the quilt blocks...You can see by comparing the pattern image with my actual blocks how I adjusted them to make them personal. I'm really going to have fun doing the embroideries!

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' - "Everlasting" Quilt Layout

I also have the finishing kit when I get to that stage. This is how the quilt looks from Lisa Bongean's pattern. Isn't it lovely? I'm motivated to work on this one first!

 

2020 Holiday Wool Box Reveal...

Brynwood Needleworks - 2020 Primitive Gatherings' Holiday Wool Box

 

I took a trip to Menasha Wednesday, while the weather was still nice.  I knew we had drizzle and a winter snowstorm coming yesterday, and I really prefer to hang around home when the weather turns for the worse.

I picked up the January Wool Box (which I can't reveal yet, while others wait for theirs), and the 2020 Holiday Wool Box. I can share that one, so here goes.

Look at all the wonderful goodies that were inside! The cute, little Love tin came with the little Redwork Gatherings™ 2-1/2" fabric squares. Then, there's a Moda™ canvas, zippered bag with a star quilt square on the front; and a large canvas tote with the Primitive Gatherings' logo on the front.

The five-piece, wool fabric assortment, a package of caramels (that somehow quickly disappeared. hmmm), and two full kits!

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' Wall Quilt Kit

 

This kit will finish as a 32" square, so it can hang on a wall, be used as a table topper, or hang over a piece of furniture. Isn't it pretty? Of course, there's no mistaking that it's a Lisa Bongean design.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Primitive Gatherings' Hexie/Wool Penny Kit

 

...and, last, but certainly not least is the "Old Friends" kit. The hexie table topper design has rustic pennies stitched all over. It's a perfectly primitive design, that will also be a fun project.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room. I know. I know. It's not like I don't have other projects in the works, in progress, and on deck, but I'm looking forward to working through them to these. The way I look at it, I'm going to have to live to be at least 100, and take good care of my hands and eyes so I can finish everything. 

With that in mind, I think I'm due for an eye exam - and possibly new glasses. I've been so focused on my surgical issues and healing, that I've put other things on the back burner. I'm going to call the eye doctor today and see when I can get in to see him. 

I've also been working on popcorn (crochet) when I'm just resting on. I almost have enough for another 6' garland! Busy Hands, Happy Hands!