Online quilt classes & quilting patterns

Bargello Blues success story

2010-12-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

Tim Ducharme shares his story about our quilt pattern "Bargello Blues" which he made for a long time friend.

"I live in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and was visiting my mom for a few weeks in May this year. I ordered the Bargello Blues pattern from a quilt shop “Ann's Fabrics and Crafts” in New Hampshire, USA and was able to complete the piecing during my visit. Back in Toronto I finished the quilting, but did not finish the binding until October."

"This was a gift for a long time friend of mine. I asked her to Google quilts patterns to search for a pattern she liked. Bargello Blues was her top pick. I then asked her to pick her colour choices, which ranged from a dark green to tan and pink. Going through my mom's stash, I was able to find the 10 fabrics."

"I had a great time with the project, though I must admit, it was a challenge. This was my first difficult project."

Here is a photo of Kolleen, my friend, holding up her quilt.

"Kolleen was very thrilled with the finished quilt and it fits perfectly on her TV."

This photo shows the quilt hanging over the TV as a cover.

"The real challenge for me was to decide how to quilt it. I decided to stitch in the ditch above fabric A. The end result is what I was hoping for, but the process was slow (smile). I used my sewing machine and, as you know, had to do a lot of 90 degree turns."

This photo shows the quilt under the foot of Tim’s sewing machine in the process of being quilted.

Part of the fun Tim had was making this quilt with his mother, Cecile. What a great way to share time together. While Tim made the large version of this quilt, Cecile made the small version. Cecile says: "He was visiting when the pattern arrived and we shopped in my fabric stash. He was here long enough to piece the quilt. He's happy, she's happy and I'm happy."

Following is a photo of Cecile quilt.

Congratulations Tim and Cecile. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

For details about our "Bargello Blues" quilt pattern see our website by clicking on the image below. This design is also offered as an online class for those who need help with their project. Online classes help you answer questions, share ideas and get to know other quilters from around the world.

"Bargello Blues" quilt pattern

Happy Quilting!

Ideas for Applique

2010-12-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

Hello quilters,

Sometimes I like a change from making quilts, not too often, but sometimes. Earlier this year I decided that I needed a change as well as a new sweatshirt so I set about making my own. Well not quite...

I went to the store and bought myself a sweatshirt (ok I know that part isn't making anything) but its what I did next that counts.

At the time, my "Advanced Layered Applique" class was running online. My students really had fun and you know how it is, when someone is having fun with quilting, you want to join in and do it too. I didn't want to made "Red Red Wine" again, but I did want to use the applique templates so that's exactly what I did. I used them to dress up my sweatshirt.

Here I am with my sweatshirt on standing by the Avon River in Christchurch

My free-motion applique techniques make this so easy to applique right onto the sweatshirt. Since you can sew in all directions, there is no turning and twisting so stitching is a breeze. Of course, sometimes I do get a little carried away though, but then that's half the fun of it. The grapes and leaves continue over to the back.

I did end up with a very unique, no-one-else-has sweatshirt - guaranteed, and it not only keeps me warm but is admired by many. So why don't you dress up a sweatshirt for yourself using your favorite applique design? It's fun!

Baby quilt of applique animals

2010-11-17T23:45:00.000-08:00

Hello quilters,

This is so cute that I just had to write about it. Jennifer who works with me in quilting, designed this gorgeous baby quilt. The colors are bright and playful, and the applique animals make this quilt a fun and easy project.

Check out Jennifer's baby quilt below.

As you can see, the applique blocks alternate with patchwork star 4-patch blocks which really compliment the applique. Each animal block is different and these colorful characters are fun for any baby to spend hours admiring.

One of my favorite is the dinosaur block. I love the color Jennifer made this in and his button eyes give you the impression that they are rolling. How adorable.

This quilt pattern is fun and easy to make and if you don't like applique, you can still enjoy it by making a patchwork version as a scrappy quilt with star sashing.

If you'd like to know more about this quilt pattern or would like to purchase it, you can by visiting our website: Animal Party baby quilt pattern

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Congrats Jennifer.

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Still Life Quilt jigsaw

2010-10-19T01:55:00.000-07:00

Fun with a still life quilt in jigsaw mode.

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In the world of quilting...

2010-09-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

Finally I have some big things behind me. For the past few months I have only been on the edge of the quilting sector with trips up North and my daughter's wedding. This is now over and behind us, but a lot of work. She made all the dresses with much help from me. She designed the celtic herself and I attached it after the dress was made. It is black silk bias with red roses dotted here and there.

I'm still waiting for my sister's twins to be born, any day now, and need to finish the new baby quilt design to send her. More about that later when the pattern is released.

It's been very distributive here in Christchurch with the big earthquake at the beginning of the month and then all the aftershocks. Over 1000 already. It was a nice break away going to the wedding but I have to admit, it took at least 24 hours to settle down to not thinking every noise you heard was another shake. 6 days away from Earthquake city was great and we have less and less now that we are back. I do have a lot of cracks in my ceiling and walls however, but I'm sure they will soon be mended.

Now I'm back on track with the business and quilting. Look for more blog posts, articles, new patterns and classes in the coming months.

Happy Quilting!

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New Online Class Coming soon

2010-05-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

Finally I have finished the lessons for my latest online class which will be available in the Fall (Spring for Southern Hemisphere). I refer to it as Still Life in textiles. I have had a lot of fun with the making of this class and even learned some new tricks to share with you all.

Here is a photo of one of the class samples just finished.

One of the great things about this class is the samples only require a small amount of fabric and you will likely have this in your stash already.

You can use my templates to make your own Still Life picture or use your own Still Life image and I will show you how to make the templates and help you with creating your artwork. I have a lot of fun with this so know you will too.

Let's bring some textile art to your home together, you'll love it.

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Free Applique design

2010-04-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

How much fun is this? I just had to show you what Margaret made using my free online class. Instead of making the book cover, she used the applique to make panels (one on the front and one on the back) for a purse.

Isn't it just darling?

Great job Margaret. I love how you used the applique flower fabric for both the handles and lining too. Makes me want to get on with my sewing.

For those of you who would like to join the free class, you can find information about it here >>

Happy Quilting!

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Stained Glass Lily quilt pattern

2010-03-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

Our latest pattern "Lilium" is a simple stained glass applique design ideal for the beginner quilter. This quilt-as-you-go technique is very quick and rewarding as the quilt goes together in no time at all.

Today I wanted to share two of my pattern testers finished quilts.

Joany made this one and is very happy with the result so she plans to teach it as well.

Deanna made this quilt.

Isn't it great to see different color combinations? What colors would you use?

Lilium is a fun project. If you would like more details you can find them on our website here: Lilium quilt pattern

We would love to hear what other stained glass applique patterns you would like. You can find designs for a poinsettia and poppy on our website, you tell us what else we should include.

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Zodiac Class

2010-03-01T01:38:00.000-08:00

Recently I had several photos sent to me by Sherry, one of my online quilt students. One of the classes she took was for making Zodiac signs. She made several totes with zodiac pockets for family members.

"Here’s a picture of the Virgo that I completed for our daughter. This was my 1st attempt, but really enjoyed it."

Sherry went on to make two more totes.

"The tote is a late Xmas present – my SIL is a Libra, and my BIL is a Leo, so they’ve each got a pocket."

Great job Sherry!

Did you see "Circle of Life"? which is where the zodiac class originated. It has a Mariner's compass in the center which is now presented as an online class at the Academy of Quilting.

Happy Quilting!

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Applique and Patchwork Pattern

2010-02-22T08:38:00.000-08:00

To all my quilt readers,

It has been way too long since I last updated my blog, and I have no real excuses except to say that I must change my ways and get busy with my blog again. So for the next few weeks you should see several posts arriving.

Today I wanted to share with you a photo sent to me by Sandra Wade who purchased one of my quilt patterns "A Freshness of Spring". Sandra decided she wanted to double the size of the quilt so seeked my permission to do so. She now has her beautiful appliqued quilt hanging nicely in her home.

Sandra's comment: "I really did enjoy doing this pattern and in the dead of winter here in Nebraska, looking at this wall hanging does indeed make me think of spring."

Thank you Sandra for sharing your quilt with us all. It is a pleasure to see you getting so much enjoyment out of my design.

Here is a closeup of Sandra's daisies and quilting.

This design is made up of a simple patchwork background with appliqued daisies over the top. My easy method of fusible applique makes this a fun project. If you are interested in this pattern, you can find it here on our website: http://www.arbeedesigns.com/a-freshness-of-spring/

Happy Quilting!

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Magnificent Presidential Quilt

2009-12-10T15:13:00.000-08:00

During my visit to the United States which was conducting their campaign for President, I became obsessed with the idea of creating a quilt for the new president Barack Obama. The size of quilt was 106” x 86” and took 120 hours to complete. The fabrics were carefully chosen from several fabric shops.

I took the President of the United States symbol and I created the front of the quilt using a fabric that looked like feathers for the eagle. I cut out the stars and stripes to radiate out from the center symbol. I finished the quilt with the president's name and year.
Among the unique fabrics I was able to find the perfect backing for the Presidential quilt. As the commander and chief of the military I found a backing fabric with the accent of military people driving jeeps and pieced it together with fabric of first flag of the United States and the current flag of the United States. The original flag had the first words of the Constitution of the United States.

When the quilt was completed UPS to the White House in care of the President and Mrs Obama.

This project I believe is my best work ever. You be the judge.

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Win a Christmas Quilt

2009-10-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

This Christmas Quilt needs a home.

The Story - how this quilt came about:

Any quilter who has taken my online class knows that with all the various options in class, I often make several samples. Yesterday while doing a video shoot for my tree skirt class I just happened to have a single poinsettia block with no home so I decided to take a little time out from work!

The background was a piece of fabric left from cutting wedges hence the cut angles. Luckily when I stitched the poinsettia, I used a larger than needed piece of batting and backing. I pulled three additional fabrics from my stash - 2 Christmas pieces (green with gold Christmas trees and a red poinsettia batik) and a green hand-dyed fabric from New Zealand. Perfect!

I added a couple of strips - first the dyed fabric, then the red and squared the whole thing up with the tree fabric. Just for fun, I stippled the background with silver metallic thread and bound the top and bottom edges in green with red for the sides.

Now I need to find a home for this quilt and know someone will enjoy hanging it for Christmas so decided to have a competition for you to win.

The Competition:

Enter into our drawing by doing any of the following options. There are 4 options to choose from and each option gives you a chance to win.

Option 1: Send us a photo of any project you made using an Arbee Designs design. The design can be from one of Ruth’s class or from a purchased pattern. You can send in as many photos as you like. Your name will be entered in our drawing once for each different project you send.

Option 2: Purchase any of our patterns from our website including sale price items (excluding downloads). For each pattern purchased, your name will be entered into the drawing.

Option 3: Sign up for any of our Christmas online classes at the Academy of Quilting. For each class sign up, your name will be entered twice into our drawing.

Option 4: Tell a friend. If your friend says you are the person who told them about this drawing and they enter, your name will be entered into the drawing as well as their name. You can refer as many friends as you like. Each person entering may only name one person as referee.

Additional Notes:
The competition will end on the 30th November 2009 and drawing will be done on the 1st December at which time the winner will be notified by email or phone. As soon as we receive the winner’s physical address, the quilt will be shipped.
Any purchase made by check or e-check, must be received at least one week prior to closing date and be bank cleared before competition closes.
When sending in a photo, you will be acknowledging acceptance for your photo to be displayed on any of our web pages with your name as maker. We will not display your contact details.

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Quilted Jigsaw fun

2009-10-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun jigsaw of our Christmas Holly Wreath quilt. Have fun making it as a jigsaw and feel free to join us in this online class at the Academy of Quilting.

Be sure to tell me how long it took to complete.

For information about our class visit our website Click here for The Holly Wreath Online Class information

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Star Block

2009-10-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

I actually made it to my sewing table today! I'm known for my applique more than my patchwork, but today was all patchwork and I had fun. I wanted to make a star block for my tree skirt. Why? Because I know not everyone likes to applique like me so I decided it would be great to add the option of a block in my Tree Skirt online class for those who want to do that. (Find out more about the class here >>)

Well for Christmas I thought, a star would be a good thing to make. So I got carried away like usual and make five stars instead of one, just couldn't help myself. So here is the first star. It's a 9" finished block.

One large star is just not my thing, I need more of a challenge than that! I decided I should add some smaller stars in the corners of the large star. So I did. Each small star block is 3" finished.

That's some pretty small pieces don't you think? Okay, so I got thinking. Now that can be a dangerous thing for me, but I did anyway. What if I made a star in the center square of my 3" star? Good thought? Hmmmmmm, okay so I wasn't going to start over because time was running out, but I just had to try it. After all, it is only a one inch star, I couldn't waste too much fabric on that. Worked great!

I had to take the photo so close to fill up my camera screen that you can even see the grain in the fabric. This was fun for sure. So tell me, what's the smallest star you've made?

Those star points are just 1/4", I wonder if I could do 1/8"....

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Twisted Ribbons Block

2009-10-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

Doreen is in my Twisted Ribbons online class and sent me in a photo of her practice block. It's great and she is having a lot of fun with this so I wanted to share it with my blog readers. This is a new block I designed where it is almost impossible to make two identical blocks. There are no templates, no need for precise seams and it doesn't even matter if your strips are a little crooked. You cannot go wrong!

Doreen found the instructions easy to follow and had a wonderful job of her block. I am looking forward to seeing her next which will be different again.

This class has just begun so there is still time to register but you need to be quick as registration close next weekend. With lesson one already available, you can get started right away. For more details see our website here: Twisted Ribbons Online Class

Twisted Ribbons is also available as a pattern if you prefer not to take the class. For more details about this please read: Twisted Ribbons quilt pattern >>

I hope you enjoyed seeing Doreen's block as much as I did. Keep up the great work Doreen!
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Prize Winning Bargello

2009-09-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

Twisted Bargello is a popular class. I have already posted several of my student's quilts here, but couldn't resist another post. This time for Barbara Delphos from MA, USA.

Barbara won third prize for her Twisted Bargello after taking my online class at Quilt University. She entered in her local guild show which has over 250 members so the show was by no means small. Below is a photo of her entry along with the prize ribbon.

"Congratulations Barbara and thank you for sharing with us all."

Barbara also won two other blue ribbons in the show for another wall hanging and jacket with purse. She is now working on my "Freedom Bargello", however has been held up somewhat after having back surgery. I hope you have a speedy recovery Barbara. You can see the "Freedom" pattern here: "Freedom Bargello" quilt pattern.

To find out more about this class click here >>

This design is also available as a pattern called "Cherry Blossoms". For more details about this pattern click here >>

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Bargello Twist

2009-08-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

Hi All, it is wonderful to see so many of my students sending me photos of their projects as they finish them. Here is another.

This is Lorraine's first Bargello quilt. She says there is over 1,000 mistakes (well I do not think there are that many) but it is still a very pretty quilt and she loves it, which is the whole purpose of quilting! She has added a heart shape within the black areas between the corner and main section and added size 6 glass beads in amethyst with a touch of blue. These are also along the binding about a half inch apart. She used hand dyed fabrics for some of the fabric - mostly the purple. The backing is also hand dyed fabric.

The quilt measures 40" x 40" and hangs in her lounge to admire.

Well done Lorraine!

For more about this pattern >>

For more about this class >>

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Free Online Quilt Class

2009-08-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

Joyce is a student of mine, twice over . She joined my free class and my online quilting class for machine quilting. She enjoyed both and they have given her confidence to go into areas of quilting that she was too afraid to venture into.

Here are Joyce's comments about the Free Class: "Because of this class I have all sorts of projects lined up now....Chicks & Bunnies for a baby quilt, a wall-hanging that I did last year that needed machine appliqué but was too timid to try because I didn't want to ruin it....that's now on my design board just waiting it's turn. lol This project will also dovetail right into the Machine Quilting techniques that you showed us in that class! I'm just having so much fun!"

Here is a photo of Joyce's book cover that she made for her Bible.

Joyce, I am so glad my classes have helped you! Your Bible Cover looks great, thank you for sharing it with us all.

For those of you who need more information about our classes, please visit the Academy of Quilting

Click here for more information about our free class.

Happy Quilting!
Ruth

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Quilt patterns

Mariner's Compass

2009-08-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

Check out one of the Mariner's Compass quilts made in our online class. This is Naomi's. Isn't it bright and colorful?

In this class you have the option to make an advanced block like Naomi's or you can make a beginner's block.

This class is open for registration. If you would like more info or to register click here >>

To see what other students did in our class see our gallery >>

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Twisted Bargello

2009-08-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

One of my students called by just to show me her finished Cherry Blossom Twisted Bargello quilt. She did a great job and had it complete in a week, even the quilting! wow. She is a beginner at quilting but did a great job of this after taking my machine quilting class only a few months ago.

Here is what Diane had to say....
"I took the twisted bargello class last Monday and became totally addicted to this quilt - so much so that I managed to finish it within a week. I enjoyed working with Ruth and was delighted with the end result. I also took a quilting technique class with Ruth a few months ago which gave me much more confidence, otherwise I may not have had the courage to do the quilting for fear of spoiling the quilt..........Thanks Ruth"

Here is a close up of the quilting. Great job Diane!

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2009-08-02T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have been busy with many online classes lately. My new quilting class is up and running (check it out here) and I'm getting set to begin work on the next class, but right now I wanted to share with you a quilt that one of my students made in my beginner's bargello class.

Joan says "It has taken me a little time to get these to everyone. But I am pleased with my colors and results. I liked lesson 2 so much I made it twice and added my border."

Very pretty Joan, it turned out great. Perhaps you feel ready to move on to my advanced class now? I think you will enjoy both Bargello Blues and Twisted Bargello.
Ruth.

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Free online class

2009-05-24T07:11:00.000-07:00

A lot of quilters ask "how do you take an online class?". Everyone seems very interested and eager to try. I decided since so many seem to be interested, that I would to write a short class so newcomers can experience the concept of online learning. Instead of adding a question and answer page, I decided it would be much better to actually make something so I decided on a book cover which is a wonderful creative idea for a gift with your personal touch.

These book covers are really fun to make. I have made them for friends and family at Christmas and birthdays. When I want to give something more, I add a small pocket on the inside cover that will hold a gift card.

With this class, I will be adding more applique designs and styles throughout the year, so the class will actually be an ongoing class unlike my regular classes. I hope quilters will gather within the classroom and share ideas so we can also add them to the lessons. It will be fun for sure and it is all free as well.

You can register here: Free online class Registration

I hope you will join me. Happy Quilting!

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Twisted Ribbon Patchwork Class

2009-05-03T14:40:00.000-07:00

I had a fun day teaching yesterday. It was quite funny actually. My students just didn't get the rules to begin with. The rules went something like this "no precise seam allowance" ... "no straight strips" ... "you can use any strip widths" ... "when it comes time to square it up, you can twist and turn the ruler any way you like". You cannot go wrong and as a result, you will end up with my beautiful twisted ribbon pattern.

It was a little difficult for my students to break the regular patchwork rules, but it was fun watching them, and once they got the concept of it, everyone had fun.

Here are some photos of the class which was held at Timeless Quilts in Anaheim.

You can see my Twisted Ribbons design in the background at the right of the photo. This green and fawn one was made by Sue Salinger while she tested my pattern... And yes, the muffins were delicious. I had blueberry!

My students had caught on to the concept now and were much happier not to be confused. You can see some of Kathy's blocks at the front of the photo on the left. Very pretty. You can also see some of my other patterns and class samples hanging in the background.

If you like this design, you can buy the pattern online at my website. I'm only an email away if you need any help.
Twisted Ribbons Pattern
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Sunflowers in Progress

2009-04-23T07:03:00.000-07:00

I have been busy working on my latest online class "Sunflowers at Dawn". This is the second of a Sunflower series. I made the class sample in shades of blues (blue is my favorite color, so I couldn't resist the temptation) so thought it would be great to share this with you. The class adds detail in shading and dimension to make this piece really come to life.

I have received a lot of comments on the first Sunflower design over the years. One thing that quilters comment most about is how wonderfully I captured and created the bent sunflower so here is a close up of it ready to be stitched.

I have so enjoyed making this design again. It is much improved on the first design and in the class I have included a lot more detail like how to add shading and where to place fabrics to capture the morning light coming through the window.

I hope you will join me! It will definitely be fun.

For more information about the class visit:
More info about Sunflowers at Dawn Online Class

If you are interested in purchasing the pattern "Simply Sunflowers", you can find more information here: Simply Sunflowers quilt pattern

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Bargello Students

2009-04-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

I've had fun today, demonstrating and meeting quilters on the Orange County Shop Hop. In fact, two of the quilters (Diane and Cindy) who took my beginner's barello class a few weeks back brought me their finished quilts to see. They are very beautiful so I just had to get a snap shot of them and of course, I have to share them with you.

Diane is on the left and Cindy on the right. They enjoyed the bargello class a lot and are now moving on with the next bargello level. Diane wants to make Cherry Blossoms (seen hanging in the background on the right) and Cindy, Bargello Blues, but Cindy insists I get the Summer pattern out to her first so she can make that before she attempts the advanced level. I see I'm going to have to add that to my schedule.

This class has certainly been a lot of fun to teach and I hope others will join in this amazing style of quilt making.

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Bargello History - where I began

2009-03-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be nice to share with you a little about my Bargello Quilting history since I have been teaching my beginner's bargello class today, not just in person, but also online through Quilt University.

First a little about Bargello History itself. Bargello quilts have their roots in needlepoint. History shows us that bargello needlepoint designs go back as far as the 16th century. This Bargello technique was known as Florentine, Flame or Hungarian stitch.

Knitters first borrowed the design for afghans in the 1960's. You will see a lot of these designs today as it is still popular with knitters.

In more recent years, it has been adapted as a quilting technique and since we are able to use fabrics that have many different textures and prints, rather than solid colored yarns as required for stitching, there are endless possibilities.

My first bargello started as an embroidered work. I stitched this almost 30 years ago and still have it today. This was introduced to me as Florentine stitch. I had not heard of Bargello in quilting at that time, however I was only just beginning to quilt. This small makeup bag, was a part of an embroidery course I took in my teenage years.

In the early 90's, when I first started quilting as a professional, I designed Bargello Blues. I had admired bargello work for quite some time, and then dove right in, two feet first, to create this advanced piece of bargello. It sold sooner after. It wasn't until 2004 that I wrote this particular bargello design up as an online class. The opening debut proved to be a huge hit with over 100 students. This continues to be a popular class today.

Bargello Blues begins again next weekend at Quilt University. Click here to find out more info...

This is not only a favorite class by many, but also one of my best seller patterns. "Freedom Bargello", another bargello design, also proves to be popular.

My beginner's class "Bargello Seasons" is always a huge success as well, along with "Twisted Bargello". Both are classes at Quilt University and later this year, I am planning on writing a Circular Bargello since many of my students are requesting it.

If you have questions about any of my Bargello designs, please leave your comments, I'll be happy to answer them.

I have patterns available for most of my bargello designs at Arbee Designs

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New Patchwork Quilt Pattern

2009-03-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share my very latest pattern here. It's a little different to my normal, but after talking with my marketing manager, decided that we were missing some market by not having some patchwork bed quilt patterns available, so I have developed a new series of patterns. Easy, no accurate seams necessary so great for the beginner plus you can make it look scrappy as well by using the jelly roll packs. This is an all pieced patchwork quilt in various sizes, no applique.

I will be working on a series of these patchwork patterns throughout the year so you will want to check back again or sign up for our newsletter.
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Here is our scrappy look made from Hoffman Fabric's Bali Pops.

Oh I had better not forget to give you the link so you can go find out more details because we have a pre-publish special available. As soon as patterns are ready, this special price ends.

Here is the link: Twisted Ribbons - new patchwork pattern

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New Online Class

2009-03-05T21:50:00.000-08:00

My newest online class is up online now. This one is for the Mariner's Compass for my Zodiac Quilt - "Circle of Life". This class is two lessons long and I have two options, a beginner's block (at the bottom) and the advanced to the right.

I have always liked star shaped blocks and thought this was perfect for my zodiac quilt. Unfortunately when I made this quilt for teaching online at Quilt University, there was already a Mariner's Compass class so I didn't include it for the course, but many have since asked for the pattern and the class. It is great to have it available at last.

Mariner's Compass beginner's block

Have some fun and join the many who have already enrolled.
To find out more...

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Bargello Blues in Brown

2009-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Eva sent me a photo of her project made in my Bargello Blues. I love the story she has attached with it so wanted to share it with you all.

Eva writes "On the outside border I've tried to quilt some kind of leaf motif because I think I will call the work "Lost in the wood". The colors remind me of a forest and the dark blue reminds of a small path. For me, in this case, "lost" is a positive word. - I've really loved doing this quilt and being a part of the Bargello Blues class. You are an excellent teacher!
Eva - PS I love the Bargello Season class too."

Thanks for your kind words Eva!

The dark blue Eva refers to is the top color in the color run, it is a little difficult to see in the photo.

To find out more about my Bargello Blues class check out my website here: Bargello Blues Class info...

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Students comments on Fabric printing supplies

2009-02-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

Here are some comments made from my students during my Printing on Fabric class about different fabrics and treatments they have tried. It is very difficult to compare as many different printers give different results as does the quality of the photo, however this will give an indication of the preferred treatments.

Click here to open a pdf file...

For full details about Printing on Fabric feel free to take my class at Quilt University or purchase my e-book by clicking on the following link:
Printing on Fabric Book

Happy Quilting!
Ruth

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Still Life in textures

2008-12-31T06:11:00.000-08:00

Check out this Still Life quilt I made for a friend for Christmas. I love doing this stuff!

The pears are made up of different shades of green and pinkish fabrics and then stitched all over to blend the fabrics together. I added a reflection as if they are sitting on a glass table top. It turned out better than I thought and am very pleased with the results. Now all I want to do is make still life quilts!

Actually this is the type of work created in my new quilt art class so if you're interested, sign up. It starts January 17th. You can register buy clicking the button on the right or check out the Academy of Quilting. Come join me, its so much fun.

Ruth
Website: Arbee Designs
Quilt School: Academy of Quilting
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Applique and Quilting - my story

2008-12-28T21:06:00.000-08:00

As an established quilter and designer, I often like to read about how others get started in the quilting world, where they began and why they are so passionate about quilting. Many times I am asked this same question - “how did I get started in applique and quilting?” – so I decided to write a post on my blog to share that information with my quilt friends around the world.

When did I first start Quilting? It began way back in 1982 when my mother-in-law wanted to learn to applique so she signed us both up for an applique quilt class. As a young dressmaker I had always worked with fabric, but never thought about making a quilt. This turned out to be a lot of fun and as you can see, I’m still doing it after all these years, but things have changed dramatically from that day and age.

When we went to the workshop we were told to think of a Nursery Rhyme, this being the theme of the quilt we would make. I chose “Little Bo Peep”, not sure why, perhaps it was because I was brought up on a sheep farm as a child or maybe I just liked the idea that a fence would look good in the foreground and was easy to make.

We equipped ourselves with cutting tools (scissors, no rotary cutter in quilting days back then) and fabrics, which included stretch knits, tulle, fleecy fabrics, felt and poly-cottons. Now I know you are laughing because we all know you just do not use these types of fabrics in quilting. In fact, as it was known, I didn’t have one piece of cotton fabric with me that day unless it happened to be a scrap from a skirt or dress I’d made previously.

During the workshop, we built up a small quilt, crib size. I had bright green poly-cotton grassy hills with a brown wooden fence in the foreground. On the hill behind the fence were some decent looking sheep made from wooly fleece fabric and dangly felt legs hanging below. I cannot quite remember if Little Bo Peep was present or not. All the applique shapes were zigzag stitched around, a sort of satin stitch but the zigzag wasn’t closed up enough to call it satin stitch, but it did attach the shapes to the background. There was no fusible webbing back then either. We stabilized all the shapes with iron-on interfacing. The pieces moved all over the place as we stitched (especially those stretch fabric shapes) and we worked around lots of pins, and I mean lots. Today, I use very few pins as I work, I could tell you why but I’ll leave that to your imagination.

That’s about all I can remember of my experience in the first applique class except that I truly did love my little quilt and was so proud of my effort. My daughters did too. Not only did they use it on their cribs (thanks to their mother) but played ‘house’ with it for many years later. Unfortunately, we no longer have this quilt. It was lost along the way somewhere in the many house moves we did. Neither do I have a photo, just a memory still stuck in my mind (of what I consider the most ugliest quilt in the world) that I can only share with words and a good laugh at the thought of how different the quilting world is today.

About the Author: Ruth Blanchet. To read more about Ruth’s progress in the quilting world, be sure to visit her website at
http://www.arbeedesigns.co.nz/about.php?sect=1
or join her at the Academy of quilting for some fun experiences in quilting and applique. http://www.academyofquilting.com

Double Sided Place mats

2008-12-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas is right upon us and I know there is always those last minute things that need to be done. I wanted to share with you, one of my last minute creations. I'd invited friends for dinner on Saturday but had no time to replace the old used table mats so set about making some quickly early Saturday afternoon while giving instructions to my son on how to prepare the pork roast dinner as I sewed.

Of course, I don't do anything by half. All that trouble for a few days of Christmas wasn't for me so I made double sided place mats, Christmas on one side and every day use on the other. Now that's the way to go! You can really do anything and use them for various occasions. They are quick and easy. I had them made in no time at all with the exception of running out of binding fabric and needing to purchase more. No hand stitching on these and my binding technique looks great on both side. No doubt I'll put a pattern out soon!

The first photo is the Christmas side, the second is on the reverse side and the last is the four place mats on the table which is about to be set for dinner.

Bargello Quilting

2008-12-16T06:42:00.000-08:00

I just had to share with you this award winning quilt made by one of my students in my Bargello Seasons online class. This quilt is the first project of four in the class, each Bargello increasing in difficulty as you work through the course. Jan won first price for her Spring Bargello at the State Fair in Western NC. Attached to the photo were her comments "Thanks again for a great class. Everyone who sees the quilts are blown away by the bargello style." Well done Jan!

This class is now open for registration. It begins 24th January. To find out more, please visit my website: More about Bargello Seasons...

Photo quilt

2008-12-11T18:18:00.001-08:00

Not many posts in the past couple of months, but that doesn't mean I haven't been busy. In fact, I made this little quilt for a friend for his birthday. Photos include his daughter with their first grandson. It was fun to make so I wanted to share it with you.

But there's more, I enjoyed the process so much that I decided I would write an e-book on photo printing. It is now on the market and it includes the layout for this quilt with full instructions. You can find it here: How to Print Your Own Photos on Fabric

I hope you'll find it useful!

More about online classes

2008-10-28T16:03:00.000-07:00

I've certainly had lots of fun with my new online quilt school. It is amazing what the students are doing and I just adore watching their projects grow. We still have the class open, so that if anyone wants to jump in now, they can. You really don't miss anything. However, in the meantime, I have another Christmas class starting in Stained Glass Applique. I took my traditional Stained Glass poinsettia and have created a whole new look with the addition of colored bias rather than black. It's been fun creating this new look. Of course, you can do either in class. In fact, if you just want to purchase pre-made fused tape, this makes for a quick project. Quilting is all done at the same time.
I hope you'll join me!

Learn to make an applique Holly Wreath online

2008-10-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

Well I just had to share my excitement. Today is the official opening of my new online class at the Academy of Quilting website: Academyofquilting.com

The actual launching of the Academy of Quilting site happened today and tomorrow our first class begins. I also added a preview of some things you'll find in the class. Just to give you an idea, here is a clip from the preview:

"Press all seams to one side as directed.

To do this, always start by pressing the seam flat as sewn to set the stitches and fabric before opening the two sections.

Position the section with seam to be pressed towards on top (usually darkest fabric), then use the tip and side of the iron to fold this top section over the seam.

Pressing is done from the right side of the block, however always check the seam on the back to ensure it is pressed correctly and lays flat."

This is a fun class where you'll learn lots of tips and tricks in applique. Come join all the other students who have already joined up and make some new friends.

Happy Quilting!
Ruth

zodiac online quilting class

2008-09-28T16:33:00.000-07:00

I just had to share with you all this wonderful jacket that one of my students made in my zodiac class. What a great idea! In my class you can make any or all of the zodiac signs. You can make cushions, totes, banners and a full zodiac quilt. It's a lot of fun. This class is starting again on the weekend, 4th October so hope you will join me. You can find out more details here: Zodiac Class

Online quilting classes

2008-09-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

My Christmas online quilt class now has a sign up button right here on my blog. In this online class you will learn several different methods of applique, both hand and machine applique. I am also giving several options to quilt the wreath and the best part is, we will be done in plenty of time for Christmas. Hope you will join me at The Academy of Quilting.

Free Poppy pattern

2008-09-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here wondering how many of my readers realize that when you sign up for Arbee Designs free newsletter, they also get a free poppy pattern worth US$8.00 (hardcopy). It's a fun block to make and you can download it free as soon as you join our quilt group.

But you know what, I think it would really look good on my quilter's tote so I think I will go make a new one right now. I'll just add a border to bring it up to the right size for the tote. For those who have not seen my quilter's tote, you can see it here: Quilter's Tote I made this when I was attending quilt classes, it was great to have all my quilting tools in one place.

Ok, off to find some fabrics and begin quilting.

The Academy of Quilting - online quilt classes

2008-09-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

The Academy of Quilting is here. I've been working on this one for much of the year and now we are open. This is my 11th online class, so looking forward to the new school surroundings. I hope you will all join me as we make this delightful Christmas Wreath ready for our festive celebrations.

We learn several styles of applique in this class, you can even stitch it by hand if you like, and I have various styles of quilting to choose from. The class starts 18th October, 2008 and has 3 lessons which takes you from beginning to end of the project. Come and share some fun with me and other quilters in the class.

For more information about The Academy of Quilting and The Holly Wreath class you can follow these links...

The Academy of Quilting - online classes for quilters - open now

The Holly Wreath - online class - starts October 18th

Quilt art

2008-09-04T17:13:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun making this quilt. It began with my daughters visit (to California) a few weeks back and since she and her boyfriend love animals so much, we took them to the San Diego Zoo. What a glorious day. We took lots of photos and I decided to use one in this small quilt I made for my quilt art class. This is just one idea we use for making several small quilts in the class. Great news is, I have a new session of this class starting at the end of the month. The classes are held in Anaheim, California. If you'd like to find out more click here: More about my quilt art class. For those not in the area, I'll soon have this available as an online class as well, please let me know your interest: Register your interest for the online quilt art class here

We had a great time during my daughter's visit. Not only did we go south, but we also went to Beverly Hills and Hollywood. The houses were amazing and the stars in the sidewalk were something I've always wanted to see. Now she has gone back to New Zealand, we miss her, but we do have wonderful memories in the quilt that will last forever.

Ruth... PS check out my other classes. I have them listed on my schedule which is now online at: Class Schedule I hope you will join me. Happy Quilting!

Free motion quilt - how to quilt video

2008-08-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

I've just uploaded a video on how to quilt free motion style. I am sure it will help you get started. I love this style of quilting as you can do so much with it. I even use it for applique now. I will be adding this sort of thing to my classes and so would really like to get some feed back on it.

Happy Quilting!
Ruth

Quilter's Run

2008-07-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

For the past month or so I've been busy using Hoffman's fabric special Southern CA quilt run fabric to make a new design especially for the quilt run starting this weekend. I have my quilt hanging in Timeless Quilts, Anaheim so hope those doing the run stop by and check it out.

The fabric is beautiful with all its bright colors which I have incorporated into the quilt. You can check out a clip of this on my website Scenic Paradise with Hoffman fabric The fabric will be on sale in shops participating in the run and I will be in Timeless doing demos and signing patterns. Hope to meet you there.

More about Bargello Twist

2008-05-09T05:53:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in my last post, Bargello Twist is open for its second session on May 31st. This class was a great hit the first time around and some truly beautiful quilts were made. I would like to share one of these with you. This very striking gray, black and yellow bargello was made by Helen. You can certainly see how much fun she had with her fabrics.

This design can easily be twisted to create a new look, not shown here, but imagine each quarter twisted. Some students made amazing cushions with the leftover scraps too. Instructions for both these are included in the lessons. The class was surely inspiring and I took great pleasure in guiding the students to finish some gorgeous quilts. You won't want to miss out, that's for sure. I'm expecting another great turn out. Register for Bargello Twist by clicking here

Quilting news

2008-04-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

Well it has been way too long since I posted here on my blog and a lot has happened in this time. The most exciting news of all is, my visa has been accepted so I may live and work my quilting business in California, USA. I am now overwhelmed with the possibilities and opportunities this will give me, of course, this won't come without a lot of hard work in creating new designs and classes for quilting. I have already started this year off with a bang, two new online classes and six new quilt patterns, and the exciting news is, there are more to come.

This year I've been working mostly in two areas, first my zodiac creations which involve appliqué for every zodiac sign and adding them to different projects. My tote is a great example of this and ideal as an inexpensive gift to make. My zodiac class includes all signs and projects together, Quilting the Zodiac I have all sorts of quilt layouts and include the tote instructions, cushion instructions and also the character ring you see in the photo if you follow the link. This class is starting 17th May so registration is already open.

The second area I have been working with is Bargello quilting. I have four new patterns out and a new bargello class. My class is Bargello Twist which is designed around my Hoffman Challenge quilt in 2003, Cherry Blossoms. This class was a huge success when it opened in January and I look forward to its second run on 31st May. You can find out more here... Bargello Twist

Along with Cherry Blossoms being presented as one of the new bargello pattern, is my classic "Bargello Blues". This design has always been a hit so the pattern is long over due. Both Cherry Blossoms and Bargello Blues are advanced projects so I decided some beginners patterns were also required. That's where my Bargello seasons series come in. First up is "Bargello in Autumn" and "Bargello in Winter". I'm hoping summer and spring will follow shortly.

So that's a brief update of what is going on. I am thoroughly enjoying my time in California and publishing more work here, and just to add to the excitement, great news today is, my son had his visa accepted to join me. I'm over the moon!

Have a wonderful month and year in quilting, I know I'm having a blast.
Ruth
arbeedesigns.com

Quilt pattern: Calla Lily appliqué creation – the idea.

2007-09-08T00:38:00.000-07:00

Quilt pattern: Calla Lily appliqué creation – the idea.

I am often asked how I come up with designs for quilt patterns, so I thought I would give you an example how I went about creating my Calla Lily quilt.

My designs usually start out by seeing something or being asked a question, in the case of the Calla Lily, I was asked, have you thought of making a Calla Lily quilt design? Actually, the answer was yes, I have already made a stained glass lily quilt but not as a pattern in my colour wash series. So I decided, why not and set about doing some research, soon to discover reasons for making such a quilt pattern.

I opened the encyclopedia to reveal that its real name is Zantedeschia (it’s a good thing I’m writing this, as there is no way I can say that). Common names include Arum Lily, Calla and Calla Lily (much easier to pronounce). And another useful piece of information I found was that it is erroneously spelled as Cala Lily.

I also know that the Calla Lily is often known as a Christmas Lily and has often been used in many paintings, one in particular being Georgia Okeeffe’s artwork.

So, upon collecting all this data, it now seemed like a great reason to turn the Calla Lily into a quilt. Since so many already enjoy this beautiful flower in many different ways, why not a quilt pattern?

As it happened, last year when I was thinking about all this, I happened to be attending school to which I walked every day and I noticed along the entire length of a church that I passed, a garden of Calla Lilies coming into bloom. As the spring days turned into summer, I watched and observed these flowers opening day by day until decided it was better remembered by capturing a snapshot on my camera (actually, it was more the fact that I kept forgetting to take my camera with me). After several weeks went by, and I realized school was coming to an end so I would no longer be taking this path, I finally snapped these amazing flowers for life time memories to use in my quilt designs.

Here are a couple of my snap shots.

So, with all these points of interest, photos and Christmas time looming, I set to and began drawing the design. The ‘idea’ is only a small part of the creation process, the design itself is a story for another day, but if you would like to see the result you can see it here. My Calla Lily quilt pattern: Light Upon The Earth

Ruth... PS for more applique patterns in this series, see our main applique pages and remember, I'm available with online support if you need help with the pattern. Applique patterns.

Quilting New Zealand

2007-09-01T02:48:00.000-07:00

Hi to you all,

I just finished posting a new article on the website, this one is about New Zealand Quilting. I have been crafting all my life, well for as far back as I can remember, and quilting now for 25 years. Things have certainly changed in that time, from using scissor to rotary cutter and ruler, and from dress fabric to good cotton patchwork fabric. You don't notice it at the time, but I assure you, if you go back to how it was, you can certainly appreciate how lucky we are today with the wonderful selection of quilting fabrics and supplies. It certainly makes life a whole lot easier.

For those interested, you may like to read my quilting article of
Quilting - New Zealand style

Pre-washing Patchwork fabrics

2007-08-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

I am often asked if it is necessary to pre-wash our quilt making fabrics before using them, so decided to write an article about this to share with you all. It has recently been posted on our website as well. Some of the points I cover are: whether or not you are allergic to the sizing, accuracy in cutting and stitching and fabrics shrinking. It would be great to get some feedback from you all about your thoughts on the matter!

Read my pre-washing patchwork fabrics article by clicking here

Ruth ... PS we have a new website that strictly concentrates on printable patterns, but not just restricted to quilting. These include other crafts as well so if you are looking for knitting, crochet and other crafts, check it out For Printable craft patterns click here

Quilting history

2007-07-11T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today I asked my mother to write some articles about her earlier days in quilting so she started to write her own blog. I wanted to share her thoughts with you as we unravel my quilting history. My mother has enjoyed writing short stories over the years so her blog should be an interesting read.
Quilting History of Joan

Quilting Articles

2007-06-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

As a writer, I am always looking for ideas and suggestions of what to write articles on so would like some input of ideas you would like to hear about. I know there are many subjects in the quilting world, but the question I ask myself is, what would you all like to hear about? Let me know!

On another thought, if you have written an interesting article, how about sending it through to me so I can add it to my growing list. I will always add your name and a link back to you if you wish.

Ruth
Arbee Designs

Summer Bargello

2007-05-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I teach online classes. One class I really enjoy is my beginner's Bargello class. Renate Soltmann was happy for me to show you all her Summer Bargello which she made during the time in my class. She had a local longarm quilter quilt it for her. The colours are fantastic and I know she is very proud of it.

I am hoping more of my students and quilters who have used my designs, will share their quilts here for everyone to see. Thank you Renate, you did a great job!

For more information about my online classes please see my website Online Classes

quilt binding

2007-04-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

It was interesting to hear how many quilters believe the right way to bind a quilt is by mitering the corners and this should be the only way. I was taught many years ago, that a quilt binding should replica the borders, thus if the border is mitered, then so should the binding and if the borders are square, then the binding should be the same. I have adopted this attitude for all my quilts however at the end of the day, it is the choice of the quilt maker. Even so, there are several points you should consider before deciding.

1. If your quilt will be entered into a competition, take into account that it is not uncommon for a quilt to be marked down if their border and binding is not consistant.
2. Your binding should be neat and tidy with the finished corners sitting flat.
3. With binding cut to the precise length and width of the quilt, it is much easier to keep the overall quilt square in shape and there is less likelihood of it having wavy borders.
4. If your quilt is slightly out of square, cutting precise length and width for the binding, can pull it back into shape.

I have two lessons on my website, one for adding straight binding and one for adding mitered binding. There are many different methods for binding but these two I find to be the most popular.
Mitered binding lesson
Square binding lesson

Hope these are helpful to you.
Ruth
www.arbeedesigns.co.nz

Art Lovers

2007-03-20T23:16:00.000-07:00

For all you art and painting lovers, check out this website.... A Perfect Painting.com I have two already and he has even offered to display some of my textile art.

Starting out

2007-03-01T21:50:00.000-08:00

So I'm just starting out with a Blog. I know they have been around for a long time but I just haven't found the time to do anything about it until now. I mostly share my designs through my website but thought it would be nice to add a personal touch by starting a blog. So here I am.

Most of my quilts are presented on my website at Arbee Designs but sometimes I have some personal quilts that I want to display separately so that is why I thought I'd start this blog. I also want a place to share interesting websites, not only in quilting but in all the things I have an interest in such as other art and computing, just two of my passions.

Let's start out with who I am and where I want to go, just in case you don't know me! I have an 'About' page on the website so you might like to start there. About me Well this needs to be updated a little, but it will give you a general idea. In addition, I love California and am currently visiting there with friends. So I hear you ask, how do I get to travel and work at the same time? It is easy with my trusty little laptop which I take everywhere I go, a necessity for me with my online classes and for publishing designs.

Then there are my goals, well my goal is to have lots of unique patterns and classes that every quilter just has to have. Well perhaps not all, but a lot of quilters. The hardest thing in the quilting world is trying to make a living to support yourself, not to mention your children. That's what I struggle with, so my goal is to make it 'big' and become known in quilting so I can do that comfortably.

That's it for this week, I hope you will come back for my next posting as I have some really cool stuff to share. Until then, happy quilting!