start quilting? I made my first patchwork pillow when I was about 12 or 13 (from some pre-cut squares my Mom bought at Cloth World), but I really started quilting in about 1993 when I made my oldest son a quilt.
first project? My first quilt was a twin-sized Double Irish Chain from the Quilt in a Day series by Eleanor Burns.
favorite movie? This one is really hard. For years my favorite movie was Gone with the Wind. I’m not sure I could pick a favorite now–there are just so many good ones.
favorite book? This one is easy…Portrait of a Lady by Henry James is my favorite novel, and Gifts from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh is another favorite read…recently my favorite fun-to-read book has been The Help. I also love Sandra Dallas quilting novels for lazy summer days.
favorite tv show? I’m not much of a tv watcher, but I love Downton Abbey, White Collar, and Antiques Roadshow!
grow up? I was born in Houston, Texas, but I grew up in Las Vegas and in Henderson, Nevada.
Neither? Both? I had both as a kid, but since one of my daughters is allergic to cats we have pretty much been a dog family. We have an almost 6 year old black Labrador Retriever.
quilt, what hobby would you do? I did counted cross-stitch and Hardanger embroidery for a while before I started quilting. I also did a little tole painting. If I didn’t quilt, I would probably spend a lot more time reading.
participant, spectator or neither? I love to watch my kids play sports, but they got the majority of their athletic ability from their Dad. I did take gymnastics for about 9 years, though.
part of quilting? I guess it would have to be cutting out the project…it’s all fun after that!
part of quilting? I enjoy piecing the blocks–it’s so fun to see them come together.
your quilting inspiration and which designer/quilter would you most like to
meet? I’m really lucky to have been able to meet most of the amazing quilters and designers who inspire me (I even had the chance to meet Eleanor Burns in an elevator one day and thank her for the Double Irish Chain pattern which started me on this journey). I think it would be wonderful to be able to sit down with a whole group of designers and have a big discussion on fabric and design and inspiration.
13. Sweet or Salty? My favorite candy right now is a Ghiradelli Dark Chocolate with carmel and Sea Salt…so I guess that’s a little of both!
Last week while I was in Wisconsin I actually got to have dinner with Carrie Nelson and Monique. Not only was our dinner wonderful, but it was also the first time I had the chance to sample Wisconsin Cheese Curds–and I could definitely use an order of cheese curds with a side of Ranch dressing right now. I seriously had been awake for about 19 hours when this picture was taken and had only had about 3 hours sleep before that…so that explains the very tired-looking me in the photo!
The quilt I picked to highlight is “Diamonds are Forever,” and I picked it because it would work so well with scrap fabrics.
While Monique gives directions for making your quilt using a collection or matching fabrics, the pattern is also easily adaptable for scraps. I made my little block section using my Denyse Schmidt scrap bin (four of these sections make one block).
The arrangement of the blocks creates a wonderful design for the quilt.
The blocks are rotated in different directions to make the pattern. I can’t wait to keep working on more block sections with my scraps in order to create this happy quilt!
Be sure to stop by the other blogs for a chance to win this wonderful book which is fat quarter friendly! (International winners will receive an e-copy). And leave a comment on this post letting me know your favorite blog topic…or something you’d like to know more about…for a chance to win a copy here.
Monday – Thelma from Cupcakes ‘n Daisies ~ cupcakesndaisies.blogspot.com
Tuesday – Denise from Quilter’s Window ~ Quilterswindow.com/blog/
Wednesday – Lisa from Stashmaster ~ The-Stashmaster.blogspot.com
Thursday – Sherri from A Quilting Life (Me) – aquiltinglife.blogspot.com
Friday – Monique – http://opengatequilts.blogspot.com/
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Edit…Congrats to Siobhán who won the copy from my parade! I’ll be e-mailing you!
momto1 says
Favorite topic? Anything quilt-related, but especially color variations on traditional designs. I love the scrappy look you chose for the block in this post.
Rebecca Stevens says
Topic: I guess I would have to say tips and suggestions and of course tutorials. I certainly enjoy your blog. Thank you for sharing your work. And thank you Monique for an opportunity to win this book. It looks like a winner.
rebecca says
My favorite blog topic is tutorials.
Great book review. I have added it to my to-buy list!
Just Sew Sue says
I love to see what you're working on.
Jane says
Right now I'm interested in learning about how to use fabrics already in your stash….fabrics you buy just because you love them but don't have a plan for and they end up sitting on your shelves for years. Thanks for the giveaway!
robinh says
I love seeing what other people are working on…and this week I enjoyed your June organizing post. During the school year it is hard to find sewing time and I like the idea of planning ahead and making kits. Im thinking I will try some big cutting sessions before school starts for me and my family and stack up,lots of blocks to work on when there is time. This looks like a fun book!
Jeanna says
It was fun reading the answers to your questions.
Favorite blog topic? Anything quilt related and usually something that occasionally gets back to the basics of the process.
Wanda says
I enjoy seeing the fabric choices, the finishes, and the helpful tips.
Rosa says
My favorite topic is tutorial and any tips and what is working on.
Deb C. says
Hi Sherrie,
I love your fabric choices for the block. Anything made in Denise Schmidt is going to be a winner. I love tutorials! If someone could make a tutorial to show me how to have those perfect corners when doing my binding, that would be so awesome. Also, do you trim the batting and backing 1/4" away from the top or trim even with the top when sewing the binding on? Sew the binding to the front, or to the back first, or does that depend whether you're going to machine or hand stitch. Sorry. But you asked. 🙂
Tanya Quilts in CO says
My favorite blog topics are about current trends. In my little town there are no cutting edge inspirations.
Melanie says
I would say tutorials for sure!
Jodi says
Some of my favorite blog topics are not only the tutorials, but demos on rulers and the magazine and book blog tours. I've found many new quilt books that I may not of looked at twice. I also found out about the fit to be square ruler on one of the blogs. I am using it now for this months Schnibble…love it.
Beverley says
Blog topics are piecing, especially traditional quilts. Also I like looking at the inside of your shops……they are large compared to ours!!
Bev in Britain
hogarthc16 says
I would love to know more about machine quilting at home. It intimidates me!!!
susan says
Favorite topic? Quilting of course. I've had my foot stuck in the Civil War, so now I'm trying to branch out and do a few more modern designs. I absolutely love scrappy quilts which usually are traditional. I like the look of the modern quilts but haven't go the swing of it yet.
shauna says
It would be hard to say I have a favorite blog topic. I really enjoy reading anything quilt related! I would like to know more about how you achieve such perfect and precise piecing. If you have any hints, tips or techniques to share I would love to read about them.
Sue Bennett says
I would love to learn more about machine quilting. I can never get enough info about it.
I am a dog lover and we have miniature schnauzers.
suebennett1975@gmail.com
Pat says
I too would love to learn more about machine quilting. I have tried and find it intimidating so give up. I also love the tutorials.
pam says
I guess my favorite blog topics are usually tutorials. I love them. Especially if they have step by step pictures. I can visually see what is going on and which direction the seams are to be pressed.
Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.
pam
Lisa Marie says
I like tutorials and posts about projects.
KMSC says
Any and every post about quilting. It's all good!
Ramona says
I would have to say most anything quilt related as that is where I spend my time in Blogland. Thank you for sharing another idea of one of Monique's fabulous designs and thanks for the chance to win her book.
Deb@asimplelifequilts says
Process posts are my favorite – I love to read about decisions made!
CathyK says
My favorite Blog topics are tutorials and tricks to make better piecing!
{ HeatherK @ AReformedHeath'n } says
Thanks for the review. I'm intrigued to see the other quilts in the book now. Thanks for the chance to win!
Lynne Tilley says
I'd like to read more on how to machine quilting, actual patterns or methods.
Nanette Merrill says
What a great post Sherri. Love your scrappy trips.
Carol Radcliffe says
Nice to see what your working on and a picture of it in the book. Lovely! Thank you for this opportunity to win Monique's book.
crazy quilter says
This sounds like a really good book. I enjoy reading any thing about what you are working on and new items you have tried, also tidbits on making our piecing better… Love all of those and the blog hops are the best, since you get to visit Blogs that are new to us… Thanks for the give away
Gill says
I like to see what projects you're working on!
Mary says
I love reading about anything quilt-related. I love seeing what you have been working on and getting a glimpse into the happenings at quilt market. I really appreciate all the things you share on your blog.
Josie McRazie says
I love to read about quilty stufff… but I also love when a blogger personalizes and lets the reader be a small part of their life!
Kerry L. says
I just love looking at blogs for inspiration. There is a lot to see and it is great to connect with the quilting world on a global scale! Would love to win!
Happy Cottage Quilter says
My favorite blog topic would be tutorials. Quick and easy ones 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
Sandie @ crazy'boutquilts says
Hmm favorite blog topic, that is a good question. I love tutorials, but I also love to look at quilts, and quilts in progress and read the makers thoughts. Monique's book looks like a fun one~ thanks for the chance!
Gwen says
My favorite blog topic would be those where you show your works in progress and talk about your process. Thanks for the giveaway!
Linda R says
I would like to know your favorite way to make (multiple) flying geese. An easy way that doesn't waste alot. Thanks for the chance to win.
Susan Smith says
I always love reading your blog posts but this one was really fun! I love "getting to know" the authors of the blogs I read! I'd love to see more tutorials. I've never been able to take a quilting class so I get my classes online through blogs like this.
Linda says
HELLO! FIRST OF ALL YOUR BLOG IS THE "BEST"! ALWAYS LOVE TUTORIALS AND REVIEWS OF NEW 'QUILTER ITEMS'! THANKS LOADS FOR SHARING!
msstitcher1948@yahoo.com
barb says
favorite blog topic…i would have to go with inspiration. if a blog doesnt inspire you to sew, quilt, or think about quilting, what are you getting from it? I LIke when bloggers tell me about themselves. it provides an emotional connection with that person. babscorbitt@gmail.com
wendy says
I love tutorials and seeing finished projects in different color ways. Everyone has their own fabric choices, it's nice to see the variety. Thanks!
M.W. says
favorite topic – anything quilt related. just can't get enough inspiration
Shawn
Anita says
Tutorials is my favorite topic.
Carol says
I look at blogs for inspiration. I don't particularly want tutorials, but I like to see how other quilters have used fabric and colour to make something they love.
Linda V says
I love quilting tutorials! Thanks for the giveaway and inspiration!
Chris S says
I love tutorials 🙂
Karen in Breezy Point says
Hmmm..I guess my favorite topic would be anything related to quilting. I love to see what others are working on to get ideas, and I also love a good sew-along!
Wendy Ouellette says
Great post. Always fun to get a little insight into other bloggers and quilters! I love to see tutorials on a blog.
Laura Pendley says
I enjoy learning anything quilting related, there is just so much to learn. Each person has so much to add to such a wonderful tradition. The possibilities are endless.
thart41 says
I love seeing what people are working in and the tutorials.
Whichcrafts says
My favorite would be tutorials. I have learned so much from them. I would also like to learn more about quilt as you go methods.
hiyacinth says
It's so interesting to see UFO's finally finished! Reading about the motivation to finish one and the process to complete the top into a quilt.
Leanne Parsons says
My favourite blog topic is anything quilt related! I love seeing what people are working on…I love new patterns, tutorials and tips…it's all wonderful. Thanks for a great chance to win!
Quilting Tangent says
Favorite topic has to be complex blocks.
Barbara Pricola says
My favorite blog topics are tutorials, and for the present, I am particularly interested in foundation piecing. I love your scrappy approach to the block you chose.
Michelle says
Favorite topic, hmmm, tutorials, what you are working on, finished projects, I guess its a toss up, I enjoy them all. Thanks for the chance to win.
karen says
I love scrap quilts and your quilt is just beautiful! Would love to have a copy of this book!
Thumper says
I learn something new each time I read any of my favorite blogs including yours. I'm new at quilting and have so much more to learn…like when you mentioned Monique's Fit to be Quarter in this blog. Now I have to go Google it and I'm sure purchase one! Thanks for all your inspiration.
DebrafromMD says
I love making scrap quilts. How do you decide what scraps to put together?
Mie says
I love tutorials, seeing new fabric and the lovely things you produce.
Christine M says
mmm Favourite blog topic? I enjoy reading all things but I do enjoy tutorials. I've learnt lots of tricks by reading them. Thanks for the lovely giveaway.
barbara woods says
i love any thing about quilt's and bags. thanks for the chance
Unknown says
I am interested in anything that relates to quilting. I also really love scrappy quilts. Nancy: rangerer@sbcglobal.net
Carol in Texas says
I love finding out the bloggers favorite books. I can always use good recommendations. I did enjoy The Help, and I have read a lot of Sandra Dallas book…..especially loved "The Diary of Mattie Spencer". I so enjoy your blog, Sheri, and your quilts. Just keep it up!
Tammy says
My favorite topics..hmm..Scraps, Scrap quilting, organization, charity sewing, and tutorials and lots of pretty eye candy pictures.
Nita says
sometimes I get tired of quilt quilt quilt and I like to hear about other things in people's lives. Quilters are actually well-rounded people 🙂
Jeanne Gwin says
Favorite topic? Hmmmm, I in interested in anything that is posted. Thanks for a chance to win this book, looks to be quite useful and fun.
Kay says
My favorite topic would be showing different quilt patterns & how they look so different with different fabrics.
Becki says
My favorite topic is quilting. I love to see free motion quilting, piecing, all things quilt!!! Thanks for the chance–I hope i win.
Gertie Pye says
Sherri I would love to know how you always get your points so perfect. And when you press do you use steam? Starch? Prewash? Any little hints you have I think we would all love to know x
Margaret says
I love reading about quilt patterns. I sew love bloggers they are so free in giving advice and tips on making quilts. Thanks for the chance to win this great book.
Brenda says
I love the posts that show what you are working on. I just love to be inspired with all the eye candy. Thanks for a chance to win this book.
KatieQ says
I like to read what bloggers have to say about the process of making a quilt.
Kathy says
I love to see what projects you're working on, what fabric you're using and then how it comes out. One blog can take me to another… and I love reading it all. Such inspiration…
Jackie at Adirondack Urban says
My favorite blog topic is getting a look at other quilter's sewing spaces!
jennyg says
My favourite topic is everything I love reading about people's quilts.
Mary Graff says
Favorite topics would be tutorials and getting inspiration from color/pattern choices. Thanks for the chance to win.
Helen L says
I love your block!! And I'd love a really easy quilt along! But even without that, I just love seeing the projects you make! 🙂
Sylvia Anderson says
Favorite topics are tutorials, color inspiration and the same patterns done in different color ways. Love your blog!
jmniffer says
Favorite topics are tips and tutorials on any and all things related to quilting. I learn all I can from quilting blogs as classes aren't an option for me right now. Thanks for the chance at your giveaway.
Lisa in Port Hope says
I like to see new ideas for block arrangements, I like the idea of this quilt where you say one block gets rotated in different ways….wow, I may need to buy that book!
Kristy says
Pictures are my favorite blog topix. I love seeing pictures of all phases of the process of quilting.
sue says
Like most readers, I like to see quilts and learn how to do things. I like to applique, but I'm not very good at it. I could use some lessons there. Mostly, I like to get inspired and see what's new out there.
Anda W says
I love tutorials, I am a novice quilter who can always use a little bit of extra help! awolk at rogers dot com
Jackie says
Tutorials are always very welcomed as it gives me a chance to learn, learn, learn!
Polly says
It's so fun to follow a blog and learn how other quilters complete their projects. That inspires me. I've started plenty of quilts just because of something I read or watched on a blog. Addictive!
Laurel says
I always enjoy your blog posts. I like to learn little tips which make things easier and better.
Katrina says
I'd like to learn more about free motion quilting on a basic sewing machine and about basting for it!
supersara20 says
I want to learn how to hand quilt…
Sandy says
I really love to read what others are working on…and perhaps a tutorial for some of their projects? Great looking book!
helen says
Intersting that you started with cross stitch, thats how I started craft as well, then progressed to patchwork. Love a scrap quilt!
Cecilia says
Thanks for the chance to win a copy of the book. My favorite topics are tutorials and new designs.
Unknown says
Wow I was surprised when you hadnt had cheese curds but after being on a dairy farm–it was a popular treat to pick up at the creamery. We like the flavored ones and its best when they squeak.(they are fresh then). I like how you interpret Monique quilt and then used scraps. Wonderful job.
Diane I
Patty says
My favorites are seeing new fabric lines and the patterns they use to show off the fabric.
Betty says
I like seeing new designs for scrap quilts.
Jennifer says
As a beginner, I would have to say tutorials are my favorite. Thanks!
Jodi - usairdoll says
Love your scrappy quilt! I'm wanting to make a quilt that doesn't use the same fabric twice, scrap quilts are awesome. I follow lots of blogs and I like when projects are shown, photos, tutorials, tips and tricks, other projects are shown ie pillows. totes, pincushions etc. I also like learning about the blogger and their life. Monique's book looks amazing and I'd love to add it to my library.
Thank you and Monique for a super giveaway and a chance to win.
usairdoll(at)gmail(dot)com
Siobhán says
What a fun block! I'm intrigued by the idea of a Denyse Schmidt scrap bin, too. Yum! I think what I'd like to learn more about is how to mix and match from different lines. I know you did a blog post on the Moda blog about that. I would love to read more about it because I'm always afraid that what I think is nice mixing & matching will end up instead to be a big hot mess.
Sandy says
I really like to spend time reading blogs for the tutorials and getting inspired on patterns and colors. But they are entertaining and quilting is a universal language. Love Monique's diamond pattern book.
Super job.
Nathalie says
topic? I like to read what is going on in the life of a quilter.
Fleurette says
Love seeing lots of photos, tips and tutorials. Thank you for the giveaway. I have Monique's two previous books, love her designs.
Donna W says
My favorite blog topic? There are so many—-but if I have to narrow it down, it would be the inspiration I get from pictures and tutorials.
This book looks super!
Sallie says
tutorials. Thanks for the giveaway!
Abby says
So fun getting to know you a little more with your answers! I love your scrap block. What a cute pattern!
Barb Price says
have you ever done piecing with glue? i just glue basted my binding, no pins yeah
Hetty Mapp says
my favorite blog topic would be tutorials and hints, so many people have little shortcuts that help in making the quilts. Thanks for the giveaway.
Janarama says
Tutorials and pictures.
Pam says
I love tutorials and seeing how others put their fabric choices together!
Bonnie58 says
I love seeing lots of pictures and lots of tutorials. Thanks so much for sharing.
Karrie Smith says
anything quilt/fabric related
Sarah says
My favourite blog topic related to quilting is up and coming fabric lines that will be released soon. Thanks for the chance to win.
Carla G says
My favorite blog topics are tips & tricks with tutorials thrown in… I'm still learning how to quilt, so almost anything will help me out! 🙂
bcgeates at netbistro dot com