Summer Sewing Plans

I have been inspired in many ways by Fairy Face Designs but most recently by Sarah’s Summer Sewing Linky.  You can find the details here (or use the button on the side bar) if you are interested in joining in too.  So, instead of our usual Wednesday work in progress update, this post is more goal-focused to finish off those projects and start new!  I have big, big plans for the next few months apparently.  I thought I would list them all and then hope to achieve 85% of them.  Here goes:

1. Finish my Quilting Guild of Ireland Mystery Quilt

I am nearly finished piecing the top, so by August I would like to have it quilted and bound.  Right now I am thinking it is really as ugly as ugly gets even though I love the fabric and each individual block. Let’s hope my attitude changes ASAP. 

2. Fix and Finish my Sampler Quilt

This is so nearly finished, but I have two mistakes that need to be corrected by the end of May to pass it along as a gift.  I just need a Saturday afternoon to focus and do it right.  I am nearly there!

3. Carry on with Lattice Illusions

Right now this is living on my design wall semi-perminantly as individual blocks.  I am struggling here as I have deviated from the pattern,  It always takes me longer to work out what I should do when the pattern-creator is not there to instruct me J  I would be thrilled to have the top finished by August.  In all reality, it will not be quilted and bound.

4. Birdie Block of the Month

This is a new discovery for me, so I am just getting started this week. I have ordered the fabric (Moda It's A Hoot) and am waiting for it to arrive. I will have, by August, the 12 blocks made and the embroidery finished on the June, July, August.  With a bit of luck, I would like to have 2 of the January-May blocks done too.  

5. Begin Piecing an Irish Chain

This is a quilt for me and I am completely excited. This will use a pack of 2.5 inch batik strips (below).  I am holding off starting this until I finish off one of the projects above.  By August, I would just like to start this project (i.e. finish off the others allowing me to start this project).

6. Start and Finish a Bag

This is a shoulder bag that I have the pattern and a set of charms for, but just need to start and finish it.  I think I am completely capable, but need to dedicate the time to work it out.  It will be finished by July.

7. Take a Precision Quilting Class

I have looked all over Ireland for a precision quilting class, but have failed to find one.  Sandy (over at Quilting for the Rest of Us podcast) positively reviewed a DVD that I am going to try.  I tend to be a very detail-oriented person (oh, my parents and brother are just giggling up a storm right now as that is the understatement of the year) so this would both sit well in my soul as well as help my quilting.  

I am really looking forward to each of these projects.  I think it is a great idea to set up this list of goals and share progress with others through Fairy Face Designs.  Thanks, Sarah, for organizing – this will be a great time!

In other happy Fluffy Sheep Quilting news.... I am obsessed with Fluffy Sheep Quilting stats.  We have now achieved over 2,500 views in 2 months and I am completely thrilled.  Thanks, guys!  I am also in line to be a guest blogger in July, so keep an eye out.  I will post a link when the time comes. I am flattered to be included in this fantastic opportunity!