It’s that time again, dear quilters, for me to stop by and say “hello”. It seems to me as if we’ve missed out on about 3 months this year – it’s gone so very fast. I guess that’s what happens when you’re very busy and not watching the calendar or the clock.

The Christmas season is upon us with all our retailers putting up their Christmas decorations in their stores. I always feel it’s a little too soon (early November) for such stuff, but I guess I don’t own a business where the Christmas season profit can make enough money for the business to continue for another 12 months.

I have always, where possible, made my Christmas gifts for family and friends. I need to say here that I only give hand crafted gifts to those who I know will genuinely appreciate the time and effort that goes into making them. Some of my family simply don’t get craft or understand the significance of something made by hand. This year I’ve made some shadow embroidery hankies and even tatted or crocheted around the edges.

Not everyone likes to use a hanky, when tissues are available but I like to use them when there’s going to be tears!

Last week I posted an article with instructions for making Touchy Feely (Tactile Quilts) for dementia patients and those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Here’s the link if you’re interested:
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art181943.asp

Another response on the forum re. written critiques at quilt shows – add your say here:
http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=43


So onto my goodies for you this week. Have fun!
http://thevillagehaberdashery.co.uk/blog/2012/free-pattern-ruths-hot-water-bottle-cosy a hot water bottle cosy to make from scraps

http://twinfibers.blogspot.com.au/2010/10/floral-medallion-blocks-template.html a pretty appliqué block

http://theobjectproject.typepad.com/the_object_project/2009/08/tea-cup-flower-series.html a fairly elaborate little pincushion- but worth the effort.

http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2013/04/tutorial-quilt-as-you-go-log-cabins.html quilt as you go log cabin tutorial

http://www.craftbuds.com/rainbow-diamonds-mini-quilt-tutorial/ vibrant and bright diamonds quilt to make

http://craft-with-confidence.blogspot.com.au/2010/07/football-pig-tutorial.html piggy softie football tutorial

http://homeofhomemadetreasures.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/guest-blog-entry-felt-owl-tutorial.html Here’s a pretty felt owl to make

http://www.adventuresofadiymom.com/2013/04/diy-dusters.html make your own dusting gloves (I know, who would want dusting gloves?????????????)

http://quiltstory.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/bunny-foo-foo-tutorial-for-baby.html sweet little baby skirt to make

Well, that’s all I have for you this week. I hope it’s calm at your place and you have a chance to get some quilting done. Until next week, take care.

Cheerio for now


Judie Bellingham, Quilting Editor
http://Quilting.bellaonline.com

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