News From the Cupboard

DIRTY--It's such a relative term...

2010-09-04T17:38:00.003-05:00

Had my work-horse-of-a-sewing-machine cleaned last week by our in-house expert, Terry. He was so nice to send me a photo of all the dust he took out of it.Looks like he took one of my cats out of it! It needed serious cleaning, ya think?! (Can you feel your leg being pulled?)

Terry is certified/licensed in the state of Texas to service all makes and models of sewing machines. Thank goodness for that. And please, have yours cleaned more often than I do!

Ellie

Wordless Wednesday (or "No One was Injured in the Shooting of this Picture!)

2010-09-01T14:18:00.003-05:00

Ellie

Wonder if I can make a quilt that small....

2010-08-26T08:43:00.003-05:00

Would you believe that frog is full-grown?! Ellie

It's a wonder I ever get ANYTHING done around here!

2010-08-25T16:05:00.003-05:00

Especially when this is what I have to put up with on a regular basis!! Why must they PLOP right in the middle of everything?(Trying to cut out a Christmas Spiral Table Runner....)

Someone must be getting some quilting done because we have lots of new samples in the shop and lots of new classes waiting for you to sign up.

Pop in and say "hi"--you know you need some quilts to PLOP on!! Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T16:44:00.001-05:00

(Who doesn't love kitty toes?!) Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T17:11:00.002-05:00

Ellie

Peace

2010-08-05T08:32:00.004-05:00

Peaceful Peaches, basking in the morning light

(James, my son, told me that I had to stop praying for peace. When I asked him why, he said that if we had peace, he would be out of a job. Fast attack nuke sub and all. Don't tell him, but I still pray for peace.)

This week, our house guest is Jess' best friend of 15 years, Kathryn. Next week, James will be here for a visit, his last before deployment. Ellie

Who Knew?

2010-07-30T08:17:00.000-05:00

Anybody out there not completely aware that Jessica (my sweet, adorable, kind, generous, loving boss--no joke! She really is all those things!) LOVES all things FROGGY? Wake up and smell the lily pad!

Check out this guy--I was told he is real, but with photoshop, anything is possible.
Ellie

Cotton Cupboard Challenge #3 is Underway!

2010-07-29T04:38:00.000-05:00

Encourage everyone you know to join us for the latest Cupboard Challenge, A Texas Christmas--all instructions and a 2 fat quarter kit are available at the shop. This is going to be a fun one! It's never too early to get a jump on Christmas!!

This is not my Challenge entry, but I thought he was kinda cute. We carry all of his fabrics at the shop.
Happy Christmas-in-July! Ellie

QUILTER'S BOOT CAMP

2010-07-28T04:26:00.001-05:00

Do you know anyone interested in learning to quilt NOW? We are going to start an all-day Quilter's Boot Camp, going from 9am to 4pm on a Saturday, during which Drill Sergeant Ellie will teach all you need to know about quilting and will finish the day with a completed quilt! Spread the word--it will be great! No screaming or running laps, however ('cuz I don't do either of those!).

Ellie

Don't Try this at Home!

2010-07-27T04:22:00.000-05:00

Finally did IT! After sewing for over 45 years, I finally sewed through my finger! Through the nail and out the other side, missing the bone--thank goodness! Won't gross you out with a photo--suffice it to say, you don't ever want to try it. Use tweezers to reach under the needle for that little piece of thread, because God never intended us to sew our fingers to our quilts.

Eww and Ouch! Ellie

Submarines and Sons

2010-07-26T08:41:00.004-05:00

Jim, Ellie, Jessica and James in front of the USS Providence

It's been a couple of weeks since my husband, daughter (Jessica) and I returned from our trip to Connecticut to visit my son aboard "his" submarine. The plane trips there and back were booked in Hades, I believe, but seeing him and touring/sailing on the sub were experiences of a lifetime!

On a steamy 103 degree day, just north of the Long Island Sound, about 18 family members gathered at the pier at the Groton Sub Base. A couple of hours later, a huge black beast was pushed/pulled to the pier and we climbed aboard, going straight down a 2 story ladder through a hole in the top of the sub no bigger than 3 feet in diameter. As soon as we entered the mess hall, I was greeted by James with a huge hug!

Being 1 of the 11 officers on board, he was given time off to show us all around the sub, from the control room to the sonar room, from the officers ward room to the enlisted racks, from the torpedo room to the air scrubbers. I spent a long time talking with the enlisted men about their areas of expertise--they are all so proud to be serving our country. We ate lunch with James and the Captain in the ward room (have I mentioned how proud I am of my son?!) and then continued with our tour. We were not allowed to see exactly where James works, which was near the reactor, which was quite fine with me.

I forgot to mention that as soon as we boarded, the sub got underway and we took a cruise down the Thames River and down the Sound, turning back around before we reached Martha's Vineyard. Despite the fact that we remained on the surface of the water, the ride was exceptionally smooth with very little rocking and rolling. James said that when they submerge, there is virtually no motion detectable unless they are diving or surfacing.

Our cruise lasted about 5 hours--pretty much the most exciting 5 hours of my life! This was the first time that the USS Providence (commissioned in 1984) has had a "dependent's cruise"--many of the nuclear subs never open their hatches for civilians. It was such a joy to see my son in his element. He loves his job, and we couldn't be more proud of him! He received his itinerary for his upcoming 6-9 month deployment--all I can say is please pray for him and all the crew. He will miss Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter this go-around, but we will make up for it when he returns next year.

Jessica and Jim on deck while underway in the Thames River, CT.

Navy rocks! Ellie

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, JESSICA!!

2010-07-01T07:23:00.003-05:00

(photo taken 9/8/09)

Hi, Everyone! Be sure and come by the shop today and give Jessica a big hug! Today is the 1 year anniversary of the opening of the best quilt shop in the Austin area!! I know you will agree--we are all blessed by having this shop as such a wonderful part of our lives. Join us today for the day long celebration!

Having had a few bosses/owners of quilt shops and having worked in my fair share of quilt shops in North Carolina, I know a wonderful boss and fabulous shop when I see one. Jessica is THE BEST, the kindest, most generous and fair, most intelligent boss I have ever worked for. My life has improved just knowing her! And to think how lucky I am to have met her just days after arriving in Austin--wow! It has been my joy to see this shop go from an empty space in June of last year to the thriving business it is today. Thanks goes out to all of you for making this a reality! I love Jessica and all of our fabulous customers!

Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-30T10:40:00.003-05:00

:) Ellie

I Love my Aggie Cowgirl!

2010-06-26T19:28:00.005-05:00

My sweet Aggie cowgirl, Jessica, is coming home for the rest of the summer! Yippee! (So I made this little cowboy boot for her today...)

She wanted to make sure she got here in plenty of time before our visit to see her brother and his sub. Talked with James yesterday and he mentioned how they went swimming from the sub "somewhere" in the Bahamas, with cruise ships within sight. He also mentioned that the disappearing sub (mentioned in an earlier post) was NOT them, but a Peruvian sub that they were watching. Who knew Peru had any subs?!?

Happy Quilting to all! Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-24T16:45:00.003-05:00

Ellie

Our Big Amazing First Anniversary Party!

2010-06-23T14:11:00.002-05:00

On July 1st, Jessica and the rest of the Cupboard Girls will be celebrating the first anniversary of the Cotton Cupboard! It's hard to believe it's been a whole year already! And you are invited to join us for all the festivities--whoo hoo!

We will be open from 9am to 9pm on Thursday, July 1st--we need the extra time because there is alot going on. Of course there will be lots of good food and drinks, but we will also be kicking off the Pajama Program. Your $5 donation will not only provide a pair of pajama pants for a deserving, displaced teen, but it will also get you a pair of flip-flops that you can decorate with some of our fabulous fabric.

We will also be kicking off our Row-of-the-Month Quilt, which has been a big hit for those who have gotten a sneak peak at it. Sign up so we can make sure there are monthly kits with your name on them.

And, as if that weren't already enough, our newest Cupboard Challenge will be starting! This time it is entitled "A Texas Christmas"--come on in and see what fun we have in store for you.

You, our wonderful customers, have made it possible for us to be as successful as we have been and we thank you so much for your support. You are the BEST!!

Ellie

What?!

2010-06-21T15:16:00.000-05:00

My husband thinks this is my son's sub, on it's way home to Connecticut! Personally, I'm not so sure! Ellie

Boater chases mysterious periscope off Hollywood beach

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T18:10:00.002-05:00

Hope all of you have had a lovely, long weekend full of love, friends and the outdoors. I spent special hugs and kisses to my serviceman, James Jr., on this great day of remembrance and thanks to all those who have served in all of our Armed Forces.

Here's a question for you--how come no one told me that bluebonnets come in Aggie maroon? Here's a gorgeous picture of some of the Aggiebonnets.(I bet those Longhorn fans don't have a flower this pretty!) Ellie

Lone Star Class Coming SOON!

2010-05-28T15:40:00.003-05:00

The first of 2 Lone Star classes is scheduled for Thursday, June 24th at 10am. Hope you will join us and make one of these wonderful-but-sometimes-intimidating quilts using the Quiltsmart fusible interfacing (which is available before class at the Cupboard!) You KNOW you want to make one!

Yeehaw, Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-26T13:12:00.002-05:00

(Yum! Ellie)

Challenge 2

2010-05-17T11:45:00.013-05:00

Entry 1

Entry 2

Entry 3

Entry 4

Entry 5

Bag Challenge is complete, now it is your turn to vote for your favorite. The winner will get store recognition and $50 gift certificate to the store. On top of that all these wonderful ladies will get to receive and additional 5% off future purchases when shopping with their cotton cupboard bag. Discount does not apply to classes or services.Thank you ladies for all your creativity and hard work. Next challenge starts July 1st.

What is THIS?

2010-05-15T11:54:00.002-05:00

The beginnings of a new selvage quilt, of course! This is what I do with all the wonderful selvages our great customers dump in my selvage Beggar Bucket! Don't throw yours away--give them to me (pretty please!). Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T15:45:00.002-05:00

(I LOVE squirrels!! Ellie)

New Product at the Cupboard!

2010-05-11T17:58:00.003-05:00

We now carry "Prepared for Dye" or PFD fabric, perfect for photo quilts, printing your own labels and just about anything else you can think of. PFD fabric is free from an solvents/chemicals that would stop the dyes from printers or paint from adhering to the fabric. I have used it for years, along with Bubble Jet and Bubble Jet Rinse (which we also carry), and have wonderful success making commissioned photo quilts for customers. Photos are also wonderful when used in combination with t-shirt quilts, giving them that really personal touch. And who wouldn't love to receive a quilt with a label attached that has your (the quilt maker's) picture on it! Then the grandkids can see Nana's face every time they curl up with your quilt!

Have a beautiful, picture-perfect day! Ellie

Sneak Peak

2010-05-10T13:07:00.003-05:00

Just HAD to show you this--I am SO excited at how this is turning out!! It should be up in the shop within a couple of weeks!!

You know what? This cloudy, cool weather is just PERFECT for quilting!! What are you working on right now? Need a new project? Come out to the shop and we'll find something fantabulous for you to make!! (Maybe there is a Lone Star quilt in YOUR future!)

Ellie

Feeling the Love

2010-05-07T08:02:00.006-05:00

Received a note yesterday from my sweet daughter, Jessica--it was with these flowers...
It said that my "first Mother's Day without children should not be dull. Here are some flowers to add some color to your day. Your #1 fan, Jessie". Yes, it made me cry--tears of joy, because I have the best kids in the world. This will be a sad Mother's Day without any of them here, but I'm working on getting used to that.

Besides my kids (and husband, and the Lord, but not necessarily in that order!), some other things that are making me "feel the love" this week are:gorgeous fabrics for a new shop quilt called Day Dreaming...

unbelievably yummy fabrics for a new Lone Star quilt, because I'm a Texan now...

and this wonderful Christmas fabric that I picked up in Raleigh before our move--I actually made a quilt for ME!

What's making your feel the love this week?

Happy Mother's Day to all! Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-21T10:22:00.002-05:00

(I. Need. This. Ellie)

Exciting Etsy Find

2010-04-18T10:56:00.003-05:00

While traveling around Etsy, I discovered this gorgeous quilt made by Leslie in honor of her brother and all the other brave Americans serving in our Armed Forces. The love and originality that she put into this quilt took my breath away--hope you love it as much as I do!Here is an excerpt from her listing:
"This Armed Forces themed alphabet quilt is a great way to introduce youngsters to the world Mommy and/or Daddy work in, or it could be a gift to a hero who has already served."

"Each letter block has a colorful, non-threatening representation of some aspect of military life. (W is for "World comma anywhere-in-the," which is where you may serve! M is for M.R.E.) The corner blocks have pictures which represent the caring and kind natures of the men and women who serve in the armed forces. After all, a lot of what the military does is build relationships."

Here is the Etsy listing for this quilt--www.etsy.com/listing/36168077/us-armed-forces-alphabet-quilt.

While you are there, check out my shop, too, to see what keeps me busy when I am not in the shop!www.etsy.com/shop/carolinasquirrell
Love you all, Ellie

Spring Expo

2010-04-16T06:28:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone the Expo is Saturday, we are looking forward to seeing everyone come out, eat lots and get inspired for summer. Here are the details. Please let us know if you need additional info. SEE YOU TOMORROW!!!! Jessica

Spring Expo:
Saturday April 17th 10:00am – 4:00pm
Register to win a Gift basket
($200+ value)
Activities and Events:
10-4 Certified Quilt appraisals ($40per Quilt)
Local Quilts on display
11-12 Lake Travis High School Flutists’
12-2 Technique and Notion Demos
2-3 Guitar Melodies by Annie Dore
Refreshments served all day.
You may also purchase raffle tickets for the Lake Travis High School Band Quilt made by Jessica Dieterle of The Cotton Cupboard.
To be given away at Sounds of Spring May 1st at the Galleria.

Worrisome Wednesday

2010-04-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

He doesn't even act afraid. Silly cat. Indeed. Hope you are having a safe week! Ellie

A Fresh New Week

2010-04-12T10:16:00.005-05:00

And a fresh new quilt to go with it! Check your calendar for the class date and join me to make one of your own. Pattern is FREE! Check out the quilting on it--I was especially excited to try out a new stitch that looks like hand quilting!! Whoo-hoo!!
Update on previous (True Blue Quilt) post--I need help! Please give me your quilting suggestions (I'd prefer to quilt it on Polly) and if I use your suggestion, I will make you a little selvage quilt. Thanks (in advance), Ellie

Talk about GORGEOUS (if I may say so myself!)

2010-04-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

This is the top half (without border) of True Blue, a sample I am making for the shop to show off our Civil War fabrics. Do you not agree that it is gorgeous!! Couldn't do it without all our great fabrics! What are you working on right now?

See you soon, Ellie

"Clue: Episode 47--the Kitty Caper

2010-04-08T15:59:00.005-05:00

BEFORE...
The scene opens with Stanley, jumping up on Ellie's sewing table to "help" her with the latest project. "Oh, my!", he exclaimed (really he said something unrepeatable), "but that fatty sister of mine is in MY SPOT!!" He sat for a minute or 2, pondering not only his horrible dilemma but also.....Oh, never mind--do you really care? You just want the punch line, right? So here it is. It was Stanley, in the Sewing Room, with the rotary cutter. Revenge is a dish best served with a little sunshine.

AFTER...

Sweet success! Ellie

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

(My first bluebonnet encounter! Ellie)

Happy Easter to All!

2010-04-04T10:46:00.004-05:00

(Rug by Ellie, 2008)

Best wishes to all of our Cotton Cupboard friends! The Lord has Risen! Love you all! Ellie

Cotton Cupboard Challenge #2 has Begun!!

2010-04-02T10:17:00.002-05:00

Next time you come in the shop, be sure and ask for the pattern for the Cotton Cupboard Challenge #2. (Yep, I helped to write it!) This time, instead of a table runner, the challenge involves a tote, perfect for carrying all your quilting supplies to class, carrying home your library books, or better yet, saving 5% on fabric when you shop with your bag at the Cotton Cupboard!! How, you ask? Just incorporate the name "Cotton Cupboard" somewhere on the tote (hand or machine embroidery, fabric painting--use your imagination!), then bring the tote in every time you shop with us, and you will automatically get 5% off each and every fabric purchase (no multiple discounts allowed).

Also, be sure and ask Jessica about her hard work that got our shop invited to join the next Shop Hop!!

And in case I haven't mentioned it lately, we love all of our dear and wonderful Cotton Cupboard customers! Thank you for your continued support of our shop--you mean the world to us! Ellie

Lots and Lots of New Classes!

2010-03-28T09:38:00.004-05:00

This is the perfect day to check out the shop calendar and see all the new classes we have in store for you. Cheryl and I have both put photo links on our class listings so everyone can see a photo of the quilt to help you decide if it's the class for you. Here are a few photos for upcoming classes (and a new selvage creation of mine) to whet your appetite!

Baby's Pinwheel

Sugar Twist

True Blue blocks (3 done, 77 to go!)

Newest Selvage Quilt (not a class--just my way of making the world a better place, one selvage at a time)

Don't forget to pick up your next Civil War Block-of-the-Month kit on Thursday!

Enjoy the weekend--see you in the shop!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-24T08:39:00.001-05:00

Ellie

Storewide Sale is a Hit!

2010-03-23T16:18:00.003-05:00

We had lots of folks in today and they all went away with some really great savings! The big sale will be on through Thursday of next week, so pull out those patterns you have been wanting to use and come on by and get some great fabric. We get new fabric in every single day, and it is all on sale!!

I just have to show you a photo of the geekiest fabric ever (and I say that lovingly, because I live in a house full of math and science geeks--it also appeals to the nurse in me) but when I found out it was $18/yd., it lost some of its appeal. What do you think?

See you soon! Ellie

March Madness at the Cupboard!!

2010-03-23T00:03:00.003-05:00

Yes, believe it or not, March Madness has hit the Cotton Cupboard!! And as our blog readers, you get a 2 day head-start on our FABULOUS SALE!! For everyone else, the sale will start on Thursday, but you get to start TODAY! The March Madness sale will run until Wed., 3/31. We will be having demonstrations of new tools and yummy cookies to eat! Join us for this once-a-year event!

Starting today, you will find the ENTIRE STORE on sale!!

Fabric and Notions--10% off
Batting--15% off
Custom Quilt Racks--20% off
Books and Patterns--20% off
End of Bolts (3 yards or less)--30% off
Discontinued Notions--40% off

**Bring in a copy of this blog page or email notification to receive your discount on Tues., March 23 and Wed., March 24.

**There will be no discounts on the use of Polly or on the purchase of shop sample quilts.

**Discounts are applied to "in stock" items only--no rainchecks or holds.

See you in the shop TODAY! Ellie

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2010-03-21T13:51:00.003-05:00

You know, it is so great to be busy--sewing, hanging out or working in the shop, being a wild and free empty-nester--but sometimes I forget to update the blog! Sorry! I'll try to do better from now on.

If you haven't been in the shop in the last day or so, there has been a bit of rearranging going on. Not the usual let's-move-the-fabric-around-so-Ellie-won't-know-where-it-is, but a full blown change of location for our tea bar, our magazine exchange, our notion wall...I could go on, but you get the drift. It just about looks like a brand new shop!! And there are lots of new quilts hanging around the shop to inspire you. With all the new fabric coming in this month, there is a lot to look at and drool over and dream about and buy. Yep, I do a lot of all of those things, just like y'all do.

Be sure and keep an eye on our calendar because we have lots of new classes popping up. And make sure you give a big welcome to our 2 new Cupboard girls, Cheryl and Loretta--they are fantabulous additions to the family.

OK,before I go for today, I must show you a photo entitled the "How Genetics Work". It won't take long for the smile to hit your face!!

Talk with you soon--promise!! Ellie

New Classes Coming SOON!

2010-03-02T12:22:00.003-06:00

Hi, all!! It's been a few busy weeks at the shop, with lots of new fabrics coming in daily and lots of great customer support. Thanks to all of you!!

This Friday is our Civil War Block of the Month HELP Class--I'll have lots of tips, hints and helpful advice to help you through your "battles" with the blocks. Bring your questions, your blocks and your smiling face!

Next week--on Tuesday, there will be a class on creating chenille using panels or fabric yardage. We have several samples in the shop. They are fun and easy and make wonderful baby gifts and rugs. Yes, many of you have expressed fear of using the chenille quilts as rugs (as we have in the shop), but I assure you that they make wonderful rugs and bathmats!

And on Saturday, we will be making our Shamrocks quilt--come and join in the fun, making this quick and easy machine applique quilt.

See you at the shop! Ellie

A View from a Quilt Show

2010-02-17T06:01:00.004-06:00

Don't know how you feel about it, but I think the Cotton Cupboard booth at the Brenham quilt show (a couple of weekends ago) looks FABULOUS!! I so would have shopped there, had I not been helping to "hold down the fort" while Jessica (and family) manned the booth. That must have been so much fun! Help me out here and next time you see Jessica, tell her that she MUST take me with her to the next show!!

By the way, thanks to all of you that bring in selvages for me--love you all! I'm making a selvage bucket for the shop for you all to drop them in.

If you haven't been in the shop in a few days, come on in and check out all the new fabric--YUMMY! Ellie

It's Time to Vote--No Politics Involved!

2010-02-16T17:45:00.007-06:00

Several wonderful customers entered the 1st Cotton Cupboard Challenge, and quilts from 4 entrants are up on the wall in the shop! Hooray for them all! So we need you to vote for the challenge winner. You will find the poll to the right of the photos.

Entry #1 Entry #2 Entry #3 Entry #4 Here are all the entries, side by side, as displayed in the shop above the notions wall.

Isn't it great to be able to vote, knowing that your vote will definitely NOT come back to haunt you over the next 4-6 years?!

Happy Tuesday, my friends! Ellie

Sew Day Thursday!

2010-02-11T09:41:00.003-06:00

If you stop by the shop today, stay a few extra minutes and keep Jessica company. She and I decided that it would be so slow today and that I should stay home and sew. Oh, the tragedy! (Just kidding--those who know me know that I could sew for 12 hours a day and never tire of it!)

Since it is getting close to Valentine's Day, I thought I would share this quilt that I saw this morning while doing my usual morning quilt-blog-hunt. It was made by Jill Teich and it is so sweet, all puns intended!Happy Sew Day to all, Ellie

Did You Know?

2010-02-10T09:49:00.004-06:00

Hey! (Don't I still sound like a North Carolina girl?!) Did you know that we are beginning a Saturday Quilt Basics (Beginner Quilting) class starting this Saturday, 2/13? Yippee!

Did you know that you can make your own chenille? There are a couple of samples in the shop--and there will be a class on "How To" starting next Tuesday. These quilts make wonderful baby quilts (very cuddly and tactile for the wee ones) as well as rugs and bath mats. I personally use them as bathroom rugs and they are wonderful--very absorbent and wash up like a dream. Sorry I don't have a photo to share--I was so anxious to take it into the shop that I forget to get a picture of it!!

Did you know that we have the wonderful Alice in Wonderland fabrics in? Here's the shop sample quilt I made last week. Come in and pick out your fabric before it magically disappears!!

Did you know Valentine's Day is coming up? (I know, stupid question, but it's a seque to this..) For those of you who save your selvages for me, this is a little something I made last weekend for my Jessica at TAMU.What are you doing for your sweetie?

Have a wonderful day!! Love you all, Ellie

We Need Your Help!

2010-01-29T08:33:00.002-06:00

We would like to start a Saturday session of our Quilt Basics class as soon as possible. This is our beginner quilting class that covers the gamut from fabric selection to binding. We have one more space available in the class and would like to get it filled so we can begin. If you know of anyone interested in learning the wonderful art of quilting, let them know about our class--we would love for them to join our quilting family at the Cotton Cupboard! The sample of the quilt we will be working on is hanging in the shop. All students will be choosing their own colors, of course, to make it their own personal work of art!

Thanks all!! Ellie

St. Paddy's Day is Coming!

2010-01-26T08:04:00.003-06:00

Yes, it is a little early, but us quilters have to get ahead of the calendar if we hope to commemorate the holidays in fabric. So here is my latest endeavor, Shamrocks. Machine applique and a piano key border--a plethora of greens, a delight for the eye. Check the shop calendar--there WILL be a class (with free pattern!).
Have a wonderful week! Ellie

Quilt of Belonging

2010-01-25T14:47:00.001-06:00

Just came across this interesting website about a quilt being showcased at the Vancouver Winter Olympics. You can see each entry from each different country--the work is magnificent!

http://www.invitationproject.ca/gallery.php

My dear Stanley was helping me with a t-shirt quilt I am making for one of our customers. His head is on top of my wrist-pincushion! (And no, I don't smoke cigars--I keep my basting pins in the Sir Walter Raleigh can!)

Later, alligator! Ellie

Silly Me!

2010-01-18T05:04:00.000-06:00

Would you believe I forgot to show you a picture of the finished Civil War quilt? Yes, it is gorgeous, if I may say so myself. Ellie

Happy (Soon-to-be) Birthday, Jessica!

2010-01-17T09:41:00.004-06:00

Be sure and come by the shop on Wednesday, 1/20/10, and wish Jessica a "Happy Birthday!". It would make her day!

Need a quick little Valentine quilt to give to that special someone? Be sure and sign up for an upcoming class to make the quilt shown here. Those taking the class get their pattern free. Patterns are also available for sale in the shop.

Last night was my Jessica's last night here before leaving for TAMU. We all watched "Julie and Julia", and MAN, was that a great movie. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it. It was full of love, travel, food and fun--a great, wonderful movie with no bad language and gorgeous photography. I wish they made more movies like this. And now, this morning, the house is quiet again, the holidays are officially over, and it's time to get back to quilting--full steam ahead!

Oh, yes, I must brag about Terry, Jessica's husband. He repairs sewing machines, sharpens scissors, and works with wood in the most amazing ways. (Of course, there are alot of other things he does, but we won't get into that now!) I had an antique mirror in my garage, serving as a saddle holder (yes, I AM ashamed!) and it was about ready to take the long trip to the trash pile, when I thought I would ask if Terry could take a look at it. Well, to make a very short story even shorter, he gave me back a mirror that none of us could believe was the same one! He took the whole thing apart, reglued it, fixed the metalwork, whittled new scrollwork where the old had been lost, and this is what it looks like now. It was an ordeal getting that HUGE thing hung yesterday, but it's up and looks wonderful. Eat your hearts out, folks!Thanks so much, Terry!

Have a great week, everyone! Ellie

New Classes!

2010-01-07T07:26:00.003-06:00

Be sure and check the calendar on the website for all the new classes. The Cupboard Girls have lots of fun things planned and we would love for you to join in the fun. If you know of anyone new to quilting that would like to take our Quilt Basics class, we have a new one starting on Thursdays on Feb. 4th. There will also be one starting on Saturdays for those who work during the week--that one will start as soon as we have 3 students signed up. Remember, even though this is an 8 week class, you take only the classes you are interested in. There is never any obligation at the Cupboard to take each and every class in a series.

Come by the shop and see the Civil War Block of the Month quilt! It's huge, it's gorgeous and it's FINISHED!! (It's not quilted yet, but really! Give me a break!) I guarantee, you will fall in love with it. For those of you that would like to participate in this Block of the Month, the kits will be available on the first business day of the month. They will be available on a first come-first serve basis, so get yours early! We can't hold any kits unless they have been paid for in advance. Also, on the Friday following the first business day of the month, there will be a help class for those who need, perhaps, a little encouragement or help with a tricky sewing skill.

The first Cotton Cupboard Challenge is underway--come by and pick up the free pattern and your fabric. All entries will be displayed in the shop and customers will be voting on a winner. So far we have 6 participants. The prize? The winner will be reimbursed for their fabric! All of our challenge patterns are original designs by me (!) and will be small projects, like this month's table runner.

I have designed a Mystery Quilt and hope you will join me for that series in the near future. It is actually a design I used for a Mystery Quilt series in Raleigh, NC, that was very popular. You will be given guidance on fabric selection and again, I guarantee you will LOVE the quilt.

If you have any classes you would like to see taught, let us know! We would love to work with you.

Can't wait to see you--come by and say HI! Ellie

Interesting Stuff

2010-01-02T09:33:00.002-06:00

Here's a fun blog, full of new craftiness daily. Some of the stuff can be way out there, but most is very clever.

http://blog.craftzine.com/

How many of you have "googled" yourself? I admit, I did it and this is what I found!

http://info.ncagr.com/DeepFried/?p=119

http://blog.wishuponaquilt.com/?p=567

http://maryjoscloth-design.blogspot.com/2009/02/quilters-tour-buses-business-of.html

It's kind of crazy, the amount of info out there! Go ahead, google yourself and see what interesting stuff you will find!

See you in the shop on Monday! Ellie

Can You Believe It's 2010?

2010-01-01T17:47:00.003-06:00

Ellie is all tuckered out after sewing all day yesterday and then partying last night (really she was playing Wii Resort with Jim), so I get to take over the blog today. Here's a cute picture of me, enjoying the sunshine and being my wonderfully adorable self.Ellie is all finished piecing the Civil War quilt top, but she didn't take any pictures of it yet, probably because it is so HUGE!! She said for you all to be sure to come in to the shop on Monday and see it. Sorry I won't be coming to your house to help you with the quilt like I did for Ellie--not everyone can be as lucky as her.

Hope you have a Happy New Year, and if you have a cat or 2, give them some extra treats today 'cuz they are probably as adorable as me!

Later, alligator! Stanley (aka. Sir Stanley Speckles, Esq.)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T11:56:00.019-06:00

My first New Year in Texas--I'm kind of excited to see what craziness goes on here in Austin. After our initiation to "Fireworks, Texas-style" on 7/4/09, we are thinking this will be a loud and bright evening. We plan to spend it on our back patio, watching the light show and sipping on some bubbly. Here's hoping that however you spend tonight will be safe, warm and fun!

Did you have a wonderful Christmas? Ours was interesting, to say the least. Laura, my middle child who is spending her winter break with friends in Hawaii, called on Christmas Eve to tell me she had just been diagnosed with the H1N1 (swine) flu. She sounded awful, miserable and lonely. James had way-too-short of a visit and is already back on duty in CT. We will miss him in 2010 when a 6 month deployment will mean his Thanksgiving and Christmas will be spent in some foreign ocean or port. Jessica (the REAL Jessica, as we call her) has already left Texas to go back to NC to see friends and attend a Christian college conference in Atlanta, GA in a few days. So our house is now quiet, and not a creature is stirring except for Stanley and Peaches. By the way, there is NOTHING funnier on this earth than to see a cat crash after having a full belly of triptophan-rich turkey!! Not that a cat needs any help sleeping!

OK, I've been trying to figure out what I can do as a final farewell to 2009, so I thought how about giving you a photo gallery of some/most of the quilted things I have made this year. So here goes, in (reverse, because I can't figure out how to change it on blogger) chronological order: Ellie's Quilty 2009!

Best Wishes to all! Ellie

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all the friends of the Cupboard

2009-12-23T09:52:00.003-06:00

Jessica, Jessica, Abby and I had a great day at work yesterday. In case you think I am stuttering, here's a shot of the 2 most favorite Jessicas in my life.Everyone is filled with the spirit of the holidays--isn't this a great time of the year?!

The Civil War BOM blocks are all completed, as is the sawtooth border (with 200 half-square triangles!) and the plain borders. "All" I have left to do is put it all together, which I will do after James' and Jessica's visits have ended. The quilt top will be in the shop for all of you to drool over on our first 2010 business day, Jan. 4th.

I'll be bringing James into the shop sometime before the 28th of December so that Jessica (boss) can see him again. You will definitely get to see a picture of that! I got word today that he is skiing today up in Connecticut--brrrr! Aren't we all blessed to live in this warm state?!

All of us girls at the Cupboard wish each and every one of you the most peaceful and joyous holiday, along with wishes of great blessings for the new year. We love and appreciate each and every one of you, and we're so glad we can all share our love of quilting together.

Merry Christmas! Ellie

The Last Block!

2009-12-19T08:33:00.003-06:00

The big, gigantic, 212 piece, 36" block for the Civil War BOM Month 11 is done! It took me most of the day on Friday because I told myself there would be no sleeping until it was done. It looks pretty straight forward, BUT I FOUND ANOTHER MISTAKE IN THE PATTERN (grrr!) which set me back an hour or so. Isn't it pretty? Next step...putting all 37 blocks together. That should take a couple of hours and then on to the sawtooth border.

I've heard a few customers mention how they think the quilt is too difficult or they don't particularly like the traditional colors of Civil War era quilts. This is the perfect opportunity for you to challenge yourself, to try new blocks, to use fabrics outside of your comfort zone. It will do your mind good to work on a project that tests your piecing skills, a quilt with blocks you have feared trying. I dived into this one head first; I love the colors but making quilts with hundreds of tiny pieces was definitely NOT my cup of tea. But while trying not to cut off any of my triangle points, I have found more confidence and joy in the blessed art of quiltmaking. The journey through the making of this quilt will be equally rewarding for you, I promise!

And in case I don't see you this week, have a blessedly Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Ellie

Thanks, Wendy!

2009-12-13T16:44:00.003-06:00

My daughter, Laura, a senior at St. Andrews Presb. College in Laurinburg, NC, asked me for a laptop sleeve for Christmas. She directed me to website where they were selling fabric sleeves for $30 plus shipping. After reminding her that it would go against my nature to buy something that I could easily make, I set out to find a pattern. Wendy, our own wonderful Wendy, has a pattern that she is using for one of her classes. She so kindly shared it with me and voila! A way-better sleeve for Laura's macbook pro, and it cost no where near $30. All I needed was a half yard for the exterior, a FQ for the pocket and flap, and a 1/3 yd. of chenille for the inside. I already had the (pink) velcro and the batting. So it cost me maybe $12 or so? Yea, and it's pink--did I mention that?! Laura loves pink! Don't you just LOVE the pink chenille I added on the inside for extra padding?!

Check the Cupboard's calendar to see all the great classes we have to offer, including Wendy's laptop sleeve class. It's always a pleasure to see you and even more fun to share new things with you. Ellie

Civil War Block, Month 9--I'll try to be nice...

2009-12-12T14:16:00.005-06:00

OK, I tried, but this block was slightly beastie. Not because it is hard to piece, but because the shop-copy pattern for this month has errors that will be corrected by the time you receive your patterns. I finished the 12" block but will have to wait until Monday to make the 18" one--the cutting instructions were wrong and I ran out of one of the fabrics. Bah-humbug! Good thing that no one was videotaping me while I made this block--you might have been a tad surprised at the range of my vocabulary!

Here it is, in all it's frustrating glory!Will work on my attitude while working on month 11. Later! Ellie

Yes, Jessica--I SHOULD be quilting!

2009-12-09T12:09:00.000-06:00

Today, my day off, was supposed to be spent quilting for one of our customers, but I got a little sidetracked with another Civil War block set. And to show you that I should have kept on task, I pulled the wrong month to do next. Instead of month 9, here is month 10! Oh, well, no one is perfect! NOW I can go quilt! Friday, it'll be back to month 9...

Got an email from James on the sub. Quote: "I'm getting less sleep and taking less showers than I would like..." The US Navy is keeping my boy busy! Later, Ellie

Month 8 Completed!

2009-12-09T07:23:00.000-06:00

I must be getting a bit jaded when it comes to the Civil War Tribute Quilt, because I thought the blocks in month 8 were very easy. Only 65 pieces in a 12" block...and it went together really quickly and easily. I guess they thought we needed a break after month 7's blocks. So here it is--month 8! See you soon at the Cupboard! Ellie

Heeeere's Month 7!

2009-12-08T07:39:00.000-06:00

Whew, I finally finished month 7 blocks for the Civil War BOM quilt. There were 8 of these 12" blocks. Personally, I find it refreshing to work on blocks that are a little challenging: the feeling of accomplishment of getting it done by far outweighs the task of making sure all those little points are not chopped off! So here it is--month 7!See you soon at the Cupboard, Ellie

A Great Success!

2009-12-06T11:21:00.000-06:00

Thanks to all of you who came to the Cotton Cupboard's first Tea Party! It was a smashing success, figuratively only. (Jessica was thrilled that no tea cups were injured in the line of duty!) We had dozens and dozens of attendees, and from what (very) little food was left, it appeared that you all enjoyed the yummy food and scrumptious teas. Here are some photos taken of the crowd...

The Cupboard Girls challenge, in which each of the 4 of us girls were to design and create a table setting, received lots of attention. Customers voted to pick their favorite setting and the highest number of votes received a gift certificate for a mani-pedi. (And boy, was I glad it was me!!) Four lucky customers each won the place setting of their choice.

Pamme Windhager won Jessica's place setting

Shirley Gentry won Wendy's place setting

Shirley Cox won Dawn's place setting

and Anita Kucera won my place setting!

Congratulations to all the winners! It was so wonderful to see you all and we really appreciate the support and friendship you show to all of us!

Ellie

Tea Party on Saturday, 12/5!!

2009-12-04T10:18:00.000-06:00

All of the girls at the Cotton Cupboard hope you will join us for our first Tea Party! There will be a tea bar where you can blend your own perfect cup of tea, as well as all kinds of good eats (made with the loving hands of us Cupboard Girls). There will be give-aways, drawings and lots of just plain fun! Please come, anytime between 10am and 1pm.

In case you might not have heard, the four of us Cupboard Girls will be making place settings for our display table. We were challenged to come up with fabric place settings that featured techniques not previously shown at the Cupboard. You, our wonderful customers, will be voting on your favorite and whichever of us wins the most votes gets a manicure/pedicure prize! AND, there will be more drawings to give away each place setting to 4 lucky customers!! I am so excited and can't wait to see what the other girls have come up with. A good challenge like this really gets my creative juices going!

I'll be bringing the completed Civil War quilt blocks for everyone to see and drool over. Haven't checked this out with Jessica yet, but I'm hoping she will let everyone that signs up for the Civil War Block of the Month on Saturday participate in a drawing to win a Selvage Star mini quilt that I have made from Civil War selvages....

So, you see--you MUST come to the tea tomorrow! See you there, Ellie

PS. James left again today on another fast-attack sub mission, but will be here for Christmas!! Hooray!! I should bring him by the shop when he gets here so you all can meet him...

Happy Thanksgiving to All Y'all!

2009-11-25T09:30:00.000-06:00

Best wishes for a peaceful and joyous Thanksgiving holiday to all! Remember all that we have to be thankful for, because we are all blessed in so many ways.

My daughter, Jessica, is home from Texas A & M until Sunday, so I'm planning on having lots of girl time!! We'll take time out on Thursday evening to watch THE game and to be thankful that we will (hopefully) beat the pants off of those Longhorns!! (I know, I'm treading on thin ice...)

My middle daughter, Laura, made it to Indiana safely and will spend Thanksgiving with friends. When they get older, they make their own plans and Mom just has to learn how to deal with it.

James and the sub are back safely in Groton, CT. He will leave again on the USS Providence right after Thanksgiving. He doesn't have leave to come down here, but we will talk on the phone on Thursday.

I'm so thankful for my wonderful children and for an even more wonderful husband, Jim. I'm also thankful for the 2 cats, except when cleaning up after them! Here is a picture of my second cat, Peaches, who also loves to help me with my quilting.

And I'm also thankful for my great job and my sweet boss, Jessica. Come on by the shop on Friday and see what sale surprises she has for you!

Hugs to all! Ellie

Holiday Specials

2009-11-24T17:35:00.000-06:00

This is our Holiday Special for Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. HOWEVER, For our loyal followers it starts a day early. Mention you saw the blog holiday special and you will get the following:

25% off Holiday Fabrics & End of bolts*
*Max end of bolt cut 3 yards to qualify for discount

or wait 'til friday and be one of the first 20 customers and you will get an additional 10% off these specials.

See you all soon, happy quilting,
Jessica

Done...Again!

2009-11-21T14:13:00.000-06:00

Here is a block from the Civil War Block-of-the-Month quilt, month 6. (ONLY 60 pieces in each of this month's blocks!) Done! Half way to the finish line, as far as piecing goes. Then I need to quilt it--anyone out there have any ideas for a traditional mid-1800's quilting design? I'd love your input!

Ellie

Hmm, Can you say THIS?

2009-11-20T16:42:00.000-06:00

1. I love my job. I work in the happiest quilt shop in all of Texas.

2. I love to quilt. Thank goodness, or I couldn't say #1!!

3. I love life. Even after a long day of sewing the blocks for month 5. (Big exhale...)Don't really know why this one took me so long, but not to worry. On to month 6 blocks tomorrow.

Here is a block from month 5--

Hope you have a wonderful weekend. And don't forget to be thankful for all the things that you love. Ellie

PS. Got an email from my sweet submariner!!! At least I know he's alive and kicking!!

After a Long Wednesday...

2009-11-18T17:06:00.000-06:00

this...

turned into this...

Ah, it was a good day! Ellie

Update: Civil War

2009-11-18T09:17:00.000-06:00

Progress is coming along nicely on the Civil War quilt, which is good since I have to have the quilt COMPLETELY finished before the beginning of January, 2010. The blocks are so beautiful, the fabric is divine and personally, I am thrilled to be given the honor of making the shop sample. I'm taking notes as I go along, with little tips and other information that I think will be helpful to those of you who will take part in this block-of-the-month project. If you haven't seen a picture of the finished quilt, or don't know about this project, here is a link to the Marcus Fabrics website with all the good info.

http://marcusfabrics.com/press/releases/civil_war_tribute_bom.shtml

A few days ago, I posted several reasons why you should make this quilt with us, but forgot to mention a really big reason. This quilt is not only interesting, historically and "quiltingly", but it is challenging enough to make you remember why you love quilting so much. It's relaxing and stimulating, a feast for the eyes, and a joy to know that you have created such a beautiful piece of historical art.

OK, this is my progress so far. I have made the blocks for month 1...

and month 2...

and month 3...

What do you think? Personally, I am beside myself with excitement. I wonder how many I can finish today on my day off....Ellie

NEW Saturday Beginner Quilting Class Starting in JANUARY!!

2009-11-05T09:10:00.000-06:00

Thought I would give you the heads-up that we will be starting the 8 week Quilt Basics class on Saturdays starting in January! We know there are alot of you out there that would love to take a beginner quilt class but can't make it in during the week, so come on in and sign up for Saturdays from 10AM to 1PM. You are not obligated to take all 8 weeks worth of classes--pick and choose which topics you need the most. We need at least 3 students signed up in order to begin, so the sooner we have our students, the sooner we can start.

The class topics are as follows:
Class 1-Color Theory/Understanding your Pattern/Choosing your Fabric (10% discount on fabric purchased on this day)
Class 2-Rotary Cutting Tools and Techniques/Cutting your Fabric (10% discount on any rotary cutters, rulers and mats purchased on this day)
Class 3-Machine Piecing
Class 4-Machine Applique
Class 5- Batting/Basting (10% discount on any batting)
Class 6-Machine Quilting
Class 7-Hand Quilting (taught by Dawn)
Class 8-Binding/Making Labels

It is my joy to be able to teach the Quilt Basics class--my ultimate goal is to help you love quilting as much as I do!

Ellie

NEW Block of the Month!!

2009-11-04T16:38:00.000-06:00

Civil War Block-of-the-Month is Starting in January!

If you haven't signed up yet for the 2010 Civil War 150th Year Commemorative Block-of-the-Month quilt, come on in the shop and put your name down on our list. This is one absolutely gorgeous quilt! If you are debating whether you should sign up, let me give you a list of reasons why the Cotton Cupboard should be your source for the patterns and fabrics to make this quilt.

1. The Cotton Cupboard will have a completed sample in the shop (made by me!) that you can come in and physically touch/see/drool over. No extra hankie charge for those driven to tears by the beauty of the quilt.

2. Starting this month (November), the Cotton Cupboard will have the entire line of fabric needed for the quilt, in stock, for you to touch/see/drool over. There is no need to wait for monthly or quarterly deliveries--you will be able to see all of the fabrics that will be used for the quilt, all at the same time. That is so amazing!

3. All quilt kits will be available for distribution on the first business day of the month. By signing up now, you will GREATLY help us to know how many kits need to be made. No waiting until the middle of the month to receive your block!

4. Our kits, which include the pattern and all the fabric needed for each months' blocks, will be only $22.50. No membership fee, no shipping fees, no automatic monthly credit card charges. You will pay only for the months you want--you are not obligated to sign up for the whole year and will not have to pay for all 12 months up front.

5. To make it an even better deal, if you bring in the previous months' blocks FINISHED by the first business day of the next month, you will receive the pattern for that month FREE! A free $5 pattern every month, just for getting the blocks made within the month they are distributed. (A potential savings of $60 plus tax!)

6. The Cotton Cupboard is offering help classes for those who might need guidance with the blocks. The classes will be offered the Friday immediately after the first business day of the month and will be taught by me!

This wonderful quilt, with fabrics designed by Judie Rothermel, will take you through some of the most historically important battles of the Civil War. Each month, the pattern will give you, along with fully illustrated directions, a short history lesson on each battle, dividing the battles between ones fought in the North and in the South.

Personally, I am SO excited about this BOM (quilt-speak for block-of-the-month), having been an admirer of Civil War reproductions for many years. I will be very busy this month and next, getting the sample quilt finished for all of you to see. Hope you will join me for this fun adventure through history and quilt making!

Quiltingly yours, Ellie

Deployment Time is Here

2009-11-01T09:44:00.000-06:00

My dear (and only) son, James, is heading out on his first deployment in 2 days. He knows how "fragile" Mom can be, so he tries to cheer me up any way he can. He sent me this photo yesterday, telling me I'd get a kick out of it. After seeing it, I laughed so hard that I almost cried. These boys are having the time of their lives, as I am sure my son will on the USS Providence.

Their sub broke through the ice "somewhere in the Arctic Circle" and the guys got to enjoy some "shore leave"!! If you want to see something hilarious that only submariners can enjoy, check out this shot of a "steel beach".

It's a rare treat for them to BBQ outside (it's true!) and swim along side the sub, but they sure do deserve it! I'm sure it's a welcome break during those 6-9 month deployments.

Getting back to the shop, we have so many fun events planned over the next year--teas, challenges, blocks-of-the-months, fashion shows, and so much more. Keep your eye on the blog for the latest updates. Come on by the shop, join in the fun, and help me keep my mind off of my son!

See you soon, Ellie

To Know Her is to Love Her!

2009-10-28T09:59:00.000-05:00

Who could I be talking about? Is it Jessica, boss-extraordinaire, sweet-as-the-day-is-long creative genius behind the Cupboard? (That kind-of sounded like an "in the closet" comment, but totally not meant that way!!) Is it Wendy, whose upbeat spirit never ceases to amaze me? Or maybe Dawn, fun-loving and wonderful? NO!! I'm talking about Miss Polly, our wonderful Nolting Longarm machine!! No offense to the girls, but I am developing a love for the pretty, purple Polly--she is so much fun to work with and does such a great job bringing the creative stitching out of all of us. Have you signed up for some time on Polly?

Before using Polly for the first time, you will receive a FREE lesson on threading, loading and using the longarm and you get to practise on a mini-quilt for as long as it takes you to get comfortable. (This practise quilt is then donated to local animal hospitals for the little sickies.) Then we will help you load your quilt on to Polly, and your time does not begin until AFTER we have checked thread tension and all the other little details. You will not be charged for time lost, for example, for needle or thread breaks. We will be there the whole time to help you with any problems or questions you may have. We want this to be a fun experience for you! Won't it be wonderful to pull those finished quilt tops out and finally get them QUILTED!!!

Hope we see you soon! Ellie

SHHHH a Discount, just for you.

2009-10-26T16:17:00.000-05:00

Mention our blog when you check out and get a free fat quarter through the end of the month. This with our "Build Your Own Bundle" That makes 10 for the price of 7.

A Big "Thanks" and a Trip to the Soapbox

2009-10-20T09:14:00.000-05:00

Here's a shout-out to Meg and Linda, 2 wonderful students in the Quilt Basic class that started yesterday--just want to say THANKS for being such fun! Looking forward to working with you over the next 8 weeks and to getting you as addicted to quilting as I am! (Insert evil laugh here!!...Just kidding!!)

Soapbox time...(please) support our troops in whatever way you can, even if you just say a prayer for their safety and guidance. It's kind of an emotional time these days in our house, with my only son being deployed in less than 2 weeks. Being a nuclear attack submarine officer, he'll be incommunicado for awhile, deep beneath some foreign ocean. It's no wonder I quilt--keeps my mind busy! Here's a picture of his sub.See you all at the shop real soon! Bring in whatever you are currently working on--we would love to see it! Ellie

Another FUN day at THE shop!

2009-10-13T16:35:00.000-05:00

I have a shop secret I'd love to share with you, but I have been sworn to secrecy by Jessica. You will just have to wait 54 days to find out! Keep checking here for clues....

Boy, was today fun at the shop!! We managed to get Dawn to try out Polly--she's quilting a sleeping bag for her daughter, Joy. When Dawn got 1/2 way through with her "whimseying", she proclaimed, "I'm pretty darn good on this!". Everyone out there, with those quilt tops lining your shelves, needs to sign up for some time with Polly and get those tops quilted! Don't be intimidated--Dawn wasn't! And she had NEVER machine quilted before.

Of course, the sweet UPS man brought lots of new fabric for us to drool over. Make it a weekly event to come into the shop and check out the new stuff, 'cuz it keeps coming in...daily!!

Speaking of new, I brought in a new Stack and Whack quilt--it's right inside the front door, so be sure to check it out. Want to learn how to make one? Sign up for the class!

Look at this video of how a sewing machine works--I thought I knew all about it, but it was still fun to see it in action.

http://inastrangeland.wordpress.com/2009/08/18/so-thats-how-it-works/#comment-5896

If any of our Cupboard friends have any interesting "quilty" websites, let us know.

Fun facts: Not only is my boss named Jessica, but so is my youngest (Aggie) daughter. And Jessica (boss) has a daughter named Ellie (spelled differently, though). Cool, huh?!

Have I mentioned that I LOVE THE COTTON CUPBOARD? Later! Ellie

Happy Sunday!

2009-10-11T11:32:00.000-05:00

Is there anything better to do on a cold, rainy day in Austin than to QUILT?! Of course, that is a rhetorical question, because there is absolutely nothing better(in my opinion)....work on that abandoned UFO (unfinished object--no aliens in the cupboard today), cut up scraps into 2 1/2" squares for a snuggly lap quilt, or maybe even check out the Cotton Cupboard calendar to see what classes you can take (you KNOW you want to!). Whatever you think of to do on this wonderful day, do it well!

Before moving to Austin this past June from Raleigh, NC, no one warned me about the crazy weather here. What is up with this? We go from week after week with bright sun and 100 degree heat to rain, rain, and more rain with temps in the 60's--I guess the old joke about "in Texas, wait 5 minutes and the weather will change" is really true. Now mind you, I love the rain, but would prefer it a tad warmer. Today, I feel like I am back in Raleigh, where it rains....alot.

Here is a little sneak peak at the makings of a new class sample I am working on. It's made with the Moda Oddyssea line from the shop. The fabric is so gorgeous and was just "asking" to be stacked and whacked.

It's kind of wrinkly because Stanley was playing with the strips during the night. The finished quilt top will be hanging in the shop this Tuesday, so you will just have to come by and see it! And while you are there, sign up for the class--it's going to be fun!

Speaking of fun, this is what I have to put up with while sewing at home. Yes, this is Stanley. No, I do not consider what he does as being helpful, but he is so darn cute!

Later, alligator! Ellie

The Girls of the Cotton Cupboard

2009-10-07T13:20:00.000-05:00

Here we all are, standing in front of our gorgeous color wall--from left to right, Ellie (recent transplant from NC), Jessica (the Boss, but she hates to be called that), Dawn (ask her about the new man in her life! Don't worry, it's very PG) and Wendy (super-creative, sparkle-loving genius). We all love to talk, help, and give advice (of a quilting/sewing nature). And most of all, we love to have fun! See you soon! Ellie

Today was Picture Day!

2009-10-06T17:03:00.000-05:00

Another great day at THE shop! Yes, it's true--I LOVE the shop. It's such a happy, fun, busy place, full of beautiful fabric and even more beautiful people. But Jessica sprung a big one on me today...we're going to have our picture taken for the website and the blog! No yippee...I hate having my picture taken. But there we were, all in a row, and the camera didn't break--so all is good.

More fabulous fabric came in today! If you haven't been in the shop in a week or so, you should really come by and be surprised by all the new stuff! And speaking about new stuff, there will be sign-ups for our 2010 Block-of-the-Month starting on October 15th. Here is the link so you can see what we will be making. I am so lucky to be able to make the store sample, and a big one it will be at 100" x 112"! Jessica would like to get an idea of how many would like to participate so that she can have all the patterns and fabric ready for us. Hope you will join in!

http://marcusbrothers.com/cgi-bin/media/viewnews.cgi?id=EkVEZlppppWPvjWsfd&tmpl=features

One more website for all you longarm quilting enthusiasts and those of you who would really like to come and play with Polly (our resident PURPLE Nolting Longarm)--this is really something special!

http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2009-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2010-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=50

Don't forget, we have lots of classes on the schedule to help you get ready for the upcoming-giftgiving holidays! And besides that, we would just love to see you! Ellie

Come blog with us!

2009-10-05T10:40:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our little corner of the blogesphere! For those of you from out of town or for those of you who might not know us, we are friends of The Cotton Cupboard, a wonderful new quilt shop on RM620 in Lakeway, Texas. Several of us at the shop (Jessica--owner, Wendy--instructor, and Ellie--instructor) thought it would be fun to start our own blog. So here it goes! Feel free to comment or ask questions.

Jessica opened The Cotton Cupboard in early July, 2009, and boy, are we glad she did! She carries the most wonderful quilting fabrics, all 100% cotton, along with tons of notions, threads, patterns, kits and more. Here is the website for the shop--check it out!

http://thecottoncupboard.com/index.php

I'm Ellie, a quilting instructor at the shop, and you will be seeing quite a lot of entries from me. Jessica and Wendy will also be popping in with news and fun, so you might want to bookmark this site so it'll be easy for you to keep up with the news.

I'm sure you have heard all those jokes that start with "You know you are a redneck if...." Well, my version is, "You know you are a quilt junkie if....even your cat has a quilt under his food dish!" This is my adopted "son", Stanley, with his new red sew-and-flip quilt under his red food bowl. Yep, I am decorating my new kitchen in red. My husband and I just moved here in June from Raleigh, NC, so I get to start all over decorating the house. yippee....I'd rather be quilting! Happy Quilting, Ellie