Patchwork and Everything Sassaman Style

I am so excited to announce that we are working on a book of patchwork ideas and recipes for quilts Jane Sassaman style!  If you follow her blog, you’ve seen these remarkable quilts that blend color and pattern to make some dazzling patterns. Sometimes you don’t even know where the seams are. The fabrics just blend. I’ve been fascinated by them for ages and am thrilled that we’ll have a book to show you how to design and make them yourself.

This book came out of the frustration. So many of Jane’s fans buy her fabric collections by Free Spirit but then are stumped about how to incorporate these bold, bright colors into quilts that show off the fabric. Her amazing, vibrant prints include larger scale patterns which have great visual impact but may be challenging for some quilters.  In Patchwork Sassaman Style, Jane clears up the mystery! She'll come right into your studio and work with you to unlock your creativity using any large scale “personality prints” as she calls them.


When I started this blog a year ago, I wanted to take my dear readers on a tour inside the world of quilt book publishing. This book is the perfect opportunity to walk everybody through book production, step by gorgeous step! We're taking you in, with lots of giveaways, polls, ideas, and detours on the way to keep your creative juices flowing.


I've known and admired Jane Sassaman since 1996, when I first saw her Willow quilt at IQA Houston. This quilt was absolutely breath-taking. The detail was incredible. Jane was standing by it with white gloves on, answering questions of passersby. I asked the stupidest question EVER: "How many hours did it take you to make it?" From then on Jane has been my favorite quilter, and that's saying something.   I followed her work in magazines and shows, and have been to her studio which is just as interesting and inspiring as she is. Her unique graphic style and unbelievable detail have to be seen to really be appreciated.

I have taken three Sassaman classes now was inspired every time. (I’ve never taken a class by the same teacher three times!) Our paths have crossed through the years, and we've gotten to know each other well through the Bernina Master Artisans group, quilt shows, classes, etc. I love Jane and her work, and can't tell you what an honor and delight it is for everybody here at Dragon Threads to work with her.

Starting now until the book is released in early 2012, Jane and I will be blogging our hearts out about the book. We've got studio tours, downloads galore, newsletter sneak peeks, and special sales coming up. Don’t miss anything! Sign up for our newsletters at Dragon Threads.com and Jane Sassaman.com. Look for us on Facebook, too. We can't wait to share Sassaman Style!

Wildflowers Quilt by Smith Street Designs

Here is the one and only block-of-the-month quilt that I've done...or ever plan to do! 

Every month I received packs of batiks to go with a wildflower embroidery pattern. I loved the idea of combining embroidery applique designs in this beautiful pattern, so I gave it a try. Here are some close-ups of my work.

For a while I was keeping up. I dutifully did my block every month before the next packet arrived. But then this and that happened and next thing I know, a special drawer in my studio (I need to post a picture of the many special drawers in my studio) was devoted to this project for years.

But it’s okay! This winter I decided I was going to get back on that wildflower quilt horse. I pulled it all out and finished the embroideries on several blocks then sewed it all together at my guild's sew-in one weekend.

This week I got more fabric and created the borders with little one inch square colored blocks. Putting this all together became fun, like visiting an old friend.

The hardest part for me is yet to come. How to quilt this top?  I know I'll put it on the Handi-quilter rental at my local store and do something. Next week I have my dear friend and award-winning quilter Philippa Naylor as a houseguest. I’ll pick her brain and get some expert advice before I make another stitch.

I'll post a photo of the finished quilt with close ups of the quilting design. But don't hold your breath.

A Day of Threadplay with Libby Lehman

I had the most pleasant afternoon last week. I sat down with a cup of tea and watched Libby Lehman’s excellent and enjoyable new DVD, A Day of Threadplay, produced by Ricky Tim’s company.

I took a class from Libby years ago. She was just as warm and friendly than as she is on the DVD. She’s a wonderful teacher, and I think her style translates well from in-person to digital. Go visit her blog if you'd like to get to know her a little better. Before I cover her DVD, check out some of these fantastic quilts from her site:

Skyview II, Crop Circles

Leaves in Living Color

She starts off with some instruction about her famous “Sheer Ribbon Illusion” technique. She walks through an easy small project, but on the way covers some color theory. She also included a fabulous way to chain piece that i just loved.

One thing that is nice on a DVD is that you can stop, rewind, and really get close-up on special techniques. The photography is excellent and clear on this 75 minute DVD. It was a treat watching Libby creating her ribbon illusion with free motion.

Her next subject is her “Potluck Applique” style, which is a great way to design in layers. This is her method of doing reverse applique with her improvements. Libby features the decorative stitches on the machine and some tips on satin stitching like a pro.

The last lesson is “Sheer Fabric” play, in which sheer fabrics are used in layers. Libby shows how to design, handle, and sew these layers for beautiful effect. She also teaches couching and bobbin work.

Even for an experienced quilter and sewer, there is lots of great instruction and tips here. She even shows you her binding method, one that I'd like to use soon. This DVD is so rich in useful information and techniques for all quilters, and it’s one of the best I've seen!

AND!!! I have a copy to GIVEAWAY. One lucky commenter will win. You have until February 27th at midnight to make your mark down below in the comment section.

And if you don't win, or you just can’t wait, go to Ricky's site and order your own. They’re on sale as of today. You won’t regret it!

Noriko Endo Exhibition

Noriko Endo, author of the book Confetti Naturescapes, had a solo exhibition at a gallery In Tokyo the last week of January. It was the same time as the giant quilt show in the Tokyo Dome near by so she had lots of traffic!  She estimated that 400 people came in to see her work.

Lee Nakamoto from Accuquilt in Nebraska was there and took these photos to share. Keep in mind while you look at the pictures that the detail is hard to capture in photos, particularly in the large quilts.

Check Noriko's website o see where she'll be teaching in your area.  She is teaching at both Quilt Festivals this year in Cincinnati and Houston and I got her to teach for our new Columbus Modern Quilt guild also!  Looking forward to taking her class myself.

Jane Sassaman Giveaway

I met Jane Sassaman in 1996 her when she won Best of Show at IQA in Houston. She was standing by her huge, amazing, gorgeous "Willow" quilt with white gloves on, answering questions. My question was the stupidest: "How long did it take you to make this?" Gracious Jane answered the question. Over the years we’ve become friends.

From the second I laid eyes on her work I’ve been a fan. It’s almost impossible not to be! Her trademark design sense, distinctive applique technique and use of machine decorative stitches are inspirational. If you get a chance, take a class. They’re informative and invaluable in terms of developing and opening up your own technique. Soak up some of Jane’s spirit and creativity in person. I've taken classes from her twice and I promise you will love working with her.

Lovely Jane is helping Dragon Threads get readers off to a creative start this year. She generously donated this nifty set to one lucky reader. Here’s what’s included:

Pretty Perfect Pocket Purse Pattern

and a piece of the main purse fabric from the front cover

and a piece of the blue fabric from the back:

Now, this bag is perfect. I love it. It’s been road tested: Jane uses it every day! Look at the fun details. Note the shisha mirrors in the daffodil centers. Who can resist the fun felt ball fringe? This is a happy bag, perfect for chasing away the winter doldrums.

Jane featured fabrics from her new Garden Divas collection for Free Spirit fabrics. This line is so luscious. I want every pattern in every colorway! I'm planning to make a shirt mixing 6 different prints. Looking for your own ideas? (After you’ve made the bag, that is…) There are some beautiful FREE quilt patterns for this new fabric on Jane's blog.

I am always inspired to see what is new with Jane on her blog, which she obviously lavishes with attention. She seamlessly weaves fabrics, travel, stories about life on the prairie, and her own terrific photos in the most compelling, almost painterly way. Her posts are as exotic, colorful, creative, and interesting as she is.

But back to the giveaway!

Post a comment below by Sunday evening, January 16th about Jane's work for one chance to win. For a second chance, sign up for our newsletter and say "Jane sent me" in the “How can we help you" box. Lucky winners get the Pretty Pocket Purse pattern plus two fabric swatches directly from Jane. Two runners up are going to get something special. I’m digging into my stash for two coveted special Jane Sassaman fabric pieces. You’ll each get two samples, half of each piece. Enter now, then start planning your next project a la Jane.

PS: Jane is having a Noriko giveaway this courtesy of Dragon Threads over at her blog. Don’t miss it! If you can’t wait to get your hands on Noriko’s book yourself (here comes a plug) head on over to my shop and buy one!

Susan Lenz Makes My New Year Happy

I'm new to the blogging world. So far, I really enjoy both reading blogs and writing for my own. One of the blogs I enjoy is Subversive Stitchers by Dawn Goldsmith. Recently she had an intriguing review of the work of Susan Lenz. One blog leads to another on the world wide web, so off I went to Susan's blog:

I mean blogs. She has several. I jumped around from one to another, but I was immediately taken by her In Box and Stained Glass series of small quilts. I lingered over the tutorial on her In Box technique. I was so impressed by the number of steps involved, the stitching, and especially by the melting of fabrics with her soldering iron. Check out this picture of her at work (all pictures courtesy of Susan Lenz).

 

Look at the detail on this In Box:

I really wanted to buy one. I mean, look at the amazing completed pieces below:

Detail from Stained Glass XVII

 

Stained Glass XXII:

In Box LXXI:

And a detail from In Box LXXVI

A great thing about the internet is that you’re only one email away from making a new friend or buying something awesome. I contacted Susan (who is quite friendly), who hooked me up with photos of her new pieces.  Her work is for sale at the the Grovewood Gallery, next to the historic Grovewood Inn in Asheville, NC.

Susan, as it turns out, is a fellow “Buckeye”. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Medieval and Renaissance Studies with a concentration in History of Art. Her fascination with Gothic and Romanesque architecture is obvious in her work.

I sat down with my husband and studied the Stained Glass gallery, then decided which of her fabulous pieces I needed for my Christmas present. (He got a Zeus mask made of iron parts.) I finally decided on an asymmetric piece. Today it arrived. Oh, how wonderful it is! So many little details and interesting textures of the melted fabric etc.  I’m going to look for a nice warm, rich wood frame. This piece is going in my studio, where it will inspire me daily. Thanks, Sue. Happy New Year from Dragon Threads! m

Window XIV

For more information about Susan and her amazingly diverse work, be sure to check out her site: susanlenz.com

Dragon Threads Gift Workshop

For the second year in a row, my friend Vicki and I made Christmas presents for our dear friends. It feels GREAT! Of course, I couldn't post what I was doing before or our friends would know what they were getting.

Our projects didn’t take much time. We started organizing what we needed this fall, completing out our lovely gifts little by little. We didn’t feel pressured at all. In fact, these projects are a great way to use up some of that fabric you have in your stash. Believe me, that feels good, too.

We used a terrific (and free!) pattern from Beth Wheeler, changing just a little.  I made about 20 of these "padfolios". They honestly they don't take more than an hour or so to make. I had so much fun coordinating fabrics from my huge stash. It was surprising how many things went together perfectly. Here is the link to the project:

Padfolio by Beth Wheeler from the C&T Publishing Blog (a great source of neat project ideas). Here’s hers:

 

Here’s mine:

I made the following changes:

1. I cut a 4" sq of fabric,pressed it on the diagonal and tucked it in the corner for a business card holder.  That is also where I attached my label.
2. To cover the top of the pad of paper, I pressed a piece of steam-a-seam 2 about the size of 2.5" x 5.5" to the back of fabric, then cut it down to 2" x 5" and peeled off the paper backing and pressed it over the paper top of the notepad and folded it over to the back. I didn't like seeing the store brand name when I opened up the book.
3. Also the zigzag were length of  0.4 and width of 3.0 for the first pass and then 3.7 for the second pass.

Here is the inside of mine (Sorry! The label is blurry):

Vicki and I had such a good time these past two years that we’ve already started planning next year’s gifts, made and delivered of course with love. I

Last year’s project was a bag from an Indygo Junction pattern.

If you can’t recall from yesterday, here’s how they turned out:

Later this month I’m going to post a couple of good ideas to use as inspiration for next year.

Merry Christmas from the Dragon Threads Elves

To all my wonderful readers, friends, quilters, and everybody in between, happiest of holidays!

I was a very busy elf this year, making lovely little portfolios and bags. I’ve been a busy elf this week delivering them.

More details to come in a blog post coming up but for now, back to the cookies.

Quilt Market Part III

Last June I tried long-arm quilting and discovered I’m more of a mid-arm woman. Ever since I took a class on the mid-arm Handi-Quilter machine, I’ve been looking at quilting patterns very carefully. In Houston this year I had plenty of gorgeous quilts to study. So much inspiration! Although I'm a long, long way from duplicating any of this master stitching, I’m determined to hone my skills. Look at these amazing quilts:

Whimsical, by Claudia Clark Meyers

Our Divine Miss Beetle, by Sonia Grasvik

Multiple Personalities, by Cynthia Goodwin

 

These quilts bowled me over with their use of color. Simply beautiful:

Harvest Tie-me, Frances Krupka

 

Joyful Garden, by Stephanie Nordlin

Ring Around the Aloe, by Lois Podolny

 

 

I am looking forward to next year’s trip to Houston already! I promise to take more photos next time.

International Quilt Market Part II

I’ve been back for a while, now, sorting through my pictures from my trip to Houston. I swear there were more quilts than usual this year and a few things you don’t normally see at a quilt show. I'm not even sure you can even classify these as a quilts but they sure are beautiful and make me laugh!

Take that Maidenform (and Madonna)!

I’ve been trying to pick a favorite from the show. It’s overwhelming and it’s impossible. There are so many quilts, so many talented, creative artists. I have a shortlist, though. One is this Asian quilt. I’m always partial to dragons and this particular piece was breathtaking. Called, Eastern Elements, and created by an Australian quilter, Linda Steele, it was an Asian version of a crazy quilt. Oh, how I’d like to hang this one in my home!

Keiko Goke, a really great Japanese fabric designer, did her amazing, fabulous version of a Wedding Ring quilt. I love the use of color and the non-traditional way she assembled the quilt.

Of course now that I am on my way to being a mid-arm quilt master (after one lesson….) I am studying at the stitch patterns in the quilting very closely. Hers is beautiful!

This weekend, a few more quilts that caught my eye, and next week (drum roll please) the first Dragon Thread Open Book Giveaway.