A few more Quilt MN ideas to tempt you!

Tumbling Mats, pattern by Far Flung Quilts , using a package of pre-cut stiff interfacing mats and the tumbler ruler by Creative Grids.  I made these myself and will make more. (That means it was enjoyable and successful!)  Things I liked about making these placemats:

• the Craftex pack of mats have a real nice rounded corner and were easy to work with.  They are fusible on both sides, the backs of these placemats are just one fabric.  Debbie made another set that had one piece of fabric on each side, saving the time of piecing.
• The tumbler ruler was a slick deal, and I could stack up the 6 fat quarters and cut out 30 tumblers in a row, then move the ruler over to the next row.  Just get yourself a sharp blade to start with!
• The fusing went pretty easily, I did use a press cloth because it took a good amount of time and heat and pressure to get a thorough bond all over.  I am always worried about scorching my fabric so the press cloth gives me a little insurance.  Those singe marks don't disappear very well, ask me how I know!
• I did the binding all by machine and it looks good!  Just remember to slightly ease a tad bit of fullness around the corners so it will lay flat when folded out.  I sewed the 2 1/2" strips to the front (after pressing them in half) and then pressed the binding seam away from the mat and folded it neatly to the back and pressed again, then stitched in the ditch from the front.  Only had one little spot on a corner that had a tuck in the back and had to be re-engineered.  And, of course, use a walking foot, preferably with the center guide!

The Quiltie Trio runner was made by Anne from a much-loved and well-used pattern by GE Designs.  We have used this pattern so many times in holiday themes.  It is just the right size for a little centerpiece and it done quilt-as-you-go, so the piecing and quilting are done at the same time.  How great is that!  And another great MN designer who has many other patterns and books that you need to know about.

Emily finished up Cabin in the Woods by Patchabilities with a laser cut kit available, too!  The fabric kit for this comes with everything but the batting and thread, plus saves you a heap of time because you don't have to trace and fuse all the pieces!  There is a layer of fusible on the wrong side of the fabric, and each piece is meticulously cut by laser-guided machinery.  We love this new service that we can offer you on select Patchabilities kits.  Of course, you can always purchase the pattern only and put your own favorite fabrics into your little cabin.  Eagle eyes might notice that we even used the stripe from Quilt MN 2011 for the binding.  We had just a little of that print left and thought it would be great for this project.

All of these patterns and kits are available for purchase starting August 3.  But the good news is that we are taking requests right now!  While supplies last, of course, so don't delay!

Now back to my stitchin' -- Pam