Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Thank You!

The end of my term as blog editor is here and Pam will be taking over for me in January.

Thank you very much for reading and for your comments. I have enjoyed writing this blog and appreciated the interaction with readers.

Happy New Year!
Jaye


Monday, December 11, 2017

December Meeting Minutes

The 'meeting' was mostly a Sew Day and Party. The meeting minutes are slim pickins'. regardless, we had a great time and a lot of Winter Extravaganza-palooza gifts were exchange while collecting pillowcases for fire victims.

Thanks to Allison and her team for organizing the food.

Minutes:
  • Some help will be needed with Hexies in 2018
  • Rhonda talked about the the Social Justice Sewing Academy embroidery small group/ project she will lead
  • Bring Michelle-Nicole's Color My Quilt shards in January
  • Bring your Color My Quilt shards in January if you want to work in a group to put them together
  • Sue S will be in charge of challenges starting in January. Stay tuned for some new and exciting projects.
  • Minnie Maw, a physical therapist will speak to us in January about hand health, hand issues. She will also teach us some exercises.
  • Quilty Happenings: 12/16 Craneway Pavillion Craft Fair, SJ Holiday Fair - sjmade.com - will be held at the South Hall in San Jose. Check website for details.
  • Scissor Sharpening: Peggy's friend will come to Sew Day to sharpen scissors - Jan 6 and Feb 3.
Charity quilts donated for the year: 175
Pillowcases collected today: 41

Next Meeting is Jan 13.

Happy New Year!

Friday, December 8, 2017

Winter Extravaganza Palooza Sew Day and Party Tomorrow!

The Winter Extravaganza Palooza Sew Day and Party will be held, tomorrow, December 9, 2017 from 10-4.
Schedule:
Sewing time: 10-1
Party and Show & Tell: 1-4

Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Sewing Time Information:
Time: 10-1
Please bring your own projects, but feel free to continue sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  As you might remember, they are also asking for quilts (bed sized only) in addition to the children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics. Contact Peggy or Michelle if you want to use the charity fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to clean up after yourself. Put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!), if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this extra Sew Day!  

Winter Extravaganza Palooza Party Information
Time: 1-4

Alison is coordinating the food. Please bring the dish for which you signed up OR contact Alison about contributing.

Bring your swap gift wrapped in a pillowcase. All pillowcases will be donated to victims of the  Wine Country fires.

Ideas for swap gifts can be found on the Winter Extravanganza Palooza post from October.

Monday, December 4, 2017

Winter Extravaganza Palooza Sew Day and Party

The Winter Extravaganza Palooza Sew Day and Party will be held on December 9, 2017 from 10-4.
Schedule:
Sewing time: 10-1
Party and Show & Tell: 1-4

Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Sewing Time Information:
Time: 10-1
Please bring your own projects, but feel free to continue sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  As you might remember, they are also asking for quilts (bed sized only) in addition to the children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics. Contact Peggy or Michelle if you want to use the charity fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to clean up after yourself. Put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!), if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this extra Sew Day!  

Winter Extravaganza Palooza Party Information
Time: 1-4

Alison is coordinating the food. Please bring the dish for which you signed up OR contact Alison about contributing.

Bring your swap gift wrapped in a pillowcase. All pillowcases will be donated to victims of the  Wine Country fires.

Ideas for gifts can be found on the Winter Extravanganza Palooza post from October.

Friday, December 1, 2017

December Sew Day is Tomorrow!

Our next fun filled Sew Day is tomorrow, Saturday, December 2d! Please note that this is our Regular Sew Day.
Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Time: 10-4pm 
Please bring your own projects, but feel free to continue sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  As you might remember, they are also asking for quilts (bed sized only) in addition to the children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics. Contact Peggy or Michelle if you want to use the charity fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self
Light non-messy snacks

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to clean up after yourself. Put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!), if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this Sew Day!  

Thank you Mary for setting this up!

Monday, November 27, 2017

December Sew Day is Saturday!

Our next fun filled Sew Day is Saturday, December 2d! Please note that this is our Regular Sew Day.
Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Time: 10-4pm 
Please bring your own projects, but feel free to continue sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  As you might remember, they are also asking for quilts (bed sized only) in addition to the children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics. Contact Peggy or Michelle if you want to use the charity fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self
Light non-messy snacks

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to clean up after yourself. Put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!), if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this Sew Day!  

Thank you Mary for setting this up!

Monday, November 20, 2017

November Meeting Minutes

We had a great meeting on Saturday. Hope you were able to make it. Here is a recap:

1. Question of the Day: What size cut of fabric do you buy if you will stash it (don't have a specific project) and you don't know what you will use it for?

As per usual, there were a myriad of answers and the answers changed as people heard the answers and logic behind the answers of other members. Most notably was the 'yard and a quarter' answer. Catherine W said she buys a yard and a quarter because it is square. Many members who followed her said something along the lines of 'well, I usually buy a yard, but may change that to a yard and a quarter'. Other answers:

  • 7 people buy half yards
  • One person had a good reason for buying 5/8 yards
  • One person said she buys 3/4 yard of small scale prints
  • Another person buys 3/4 yards in general because she can't do anything with a half yard, that turns into 16" by the time it is washed and trimmed
  • That same person said she buys 1 yard of prints
  • Many people buy 1 yard in general, especially if they are shopping online
  • By the time everyone had introduced themselves, 1.25 yards was very popular
  • 4 people are confident in their purchases of 2 yard cuts
  • One person said 2.5 yards of a big print
  • 3 people said 3 yards
  • 3-4 yards of Kaffe/Philip Jacobs flower prints
  • One person said 4 yards if it is a staple
  • 4-6 yards, which shocked your editor, was not an uncommon answer
  • 5-6 yards is easy to buy online, because you don't actually see what is in your basket
  • 6 yards also came up more than once
  • One member commented that you can make anything out of 7 yards!
  • Some ad an extra 1/8th just to get a bolt discount or to get free shipping when shopping online
  • Others buy what they can afford
  • Some have no rhyme or reason to their purchasing patterns-they just buy what they feel like buying
  • Some buy more in person, others buy more online
  • One person only buys for a specific project
  • A few people are on fabric diets and are trying to use up their stash
  • A few people mentioned that they change their amounts based on how good the sale is

2. Dues are DUE in January. Look for more information coming soon.

3. Technology survey

The Executive Board was very grateful to members for taking the time to fill out the survey created by Christina and the Tech group. 49 people out of 60 paid members responded. That is a phenomenal response.

4. Executive Board and Elections
Member-at-Large is a position that represents members on the Board and supports members in various aspects. Elections were held and the following people were elected:

Meeting Organizer (President): Gerre D.
Events Organizers (VP): Mary C and Amy
Treasurer: Nancy A
Member-at-Large: Alison

There were no nays or abstentions.

5. Other Volunteers
Blog content: Pam
Challenges: Sue S
Guild Tech Admin: Tim H
Guild tech Chair (head of committee looking into a better, more integrated tech system): Tim H
Hexinator: Cheryl
Library: Lee Ann
Ongoing Outreach Coordinator (pet beds + coordinating getting items such as pillowcases to where they need to go) : Shoshanna
Photographer: Marty and Cyndi
Random Number Generator: Cheryl
Retreat Committee Chair: Bonnie
Sew Day: Mary C.
Swaps: Shoshanna and Rhonda


6. Merit Hexies

Gerre announced a few new Exclooooosive merit hexies, including for giving a trunk show and the call for quilts for Las Vegas.

Gerre asked if people wanted to continue the merit hexies into 2018. People were unanimously in favor.  She said she needed help and some members agreed to help make merit hexies.

7. Small Groups in 2018: new groups will be starting:

  • Color My Quilt design group
  • SJSA hand stitching projects will be added on to the hand stitching group

8. Calendar and Quilty Happenings

Nov 30: last day to enter quilts in QuiltCon
Dec.2: Sew Day, 10-4 at Grace Lutheran
Dec.9: Sew Day and Winter Extravaganza Party, 10-4 at Grace Lutheran
Jan. 27: Local Quilt Shop Day

9. Charity

  • 35 pillowcases were made at Sew Day. Thanks to Karen M. for bringing her serger and serging many pillowcases. Thanks to everyone else who helped that day and participated in the assembly line. The organizers plan to make 5,000 pillowcases so every child gets one. Many more are needed.
  • an additional 15 pillowcases were made and brought to the meeting to be donated
  • Quilters in Petaluma are seeking blocks in 6x6, 9x9 and 12x12 sizes to be made into bed sized quilts. They can be sent to: Sonoma Strong C/O NorCal Sew & Vac, 909 D Street, San Rafael, CA 94901
  • 164 quilts have been donated to our charities this year
  • 25 walker bags were donated this year
  • Charity patterns are now posted on this site. Find them on the Charity page. Michelle and Peggy have created a new pattern, which will be available soon. In the meantime, take a posted pattern and make some quilts! The group will be making Chevron blocks before the party on Dec.9
  • There are a lot of quilts to be quilted, so grab one at the next meeting.
10. Color My Quilt
Melinda received several  chunks/shards/blocks in the raspberry, blueberry and blackberry colors she requested.

Michelle-Nicholle's Color my Quilt shards will be due in January. Check the forum if you did not get a sheet.Gerre has posted most of the colors and prompts.

11. Giveaway
Michelle B won! Yay!

12. Challenges: Strip Challenge
The strip challenge was due at the meeting. People showed their challenge pieces at Show & Tell. Jaye won the award for the best reaction. She made a donation top from the leftovers of her Carpenter's Wheel quilt and someone pointed out that it was strips, so it counted for the challenge. She didn't even realize it and was thrilled.

13.  Holiday Party Sign-ups
If you were not able to make the meeting and want to bring something for the party, please contact Alison.

14.  Holiday Swap
Sign-ups are closed and assignments have been sent out. If there is a problem, talk to Cheryl. If you signed up, be sure to make your item and a pillowcase for wrapping and bring it to the Winter Extravaganza party


15. Other
People want pictures associated with forum accounts so they have an easier time putting names together with faces. If you need help with the forum, see Alison.

Nancy Zieman passed away on Tuesday November 14. Her obituary is posted. She leaves a large family and a legacy of sewing behind. Make donations in her name to Wisconsin Public Television in lieu of flowers.


There was plenty of time after the meeting to socialize. Thanks to everyone who helped make the meeting a success.

Friday, November 17, 2017

November 18 Meeting is Tomorrow

We look forward to seeing you, tomorrow, Saturday November 18, 2017, for our monthly guild meeting! Join us at 1:00, at the Redwood City Library, in the upstairs community room.

Reminder about our BAM Merit Hexies challenge! Participation is the key to winning your hexies!

Things to bring:
  • Color my Quilt pieces - this is Melinda's month
  • Show and Tell - this is a great way to get to know people and we LOVE to see your stuff!!!
  • Your name tag (hexie available!)
  • Charity blocks and quilts 
  • Small Group projects (and ideas for new Small Groups!) 
  • Information about local/national quilty happenings 
  • Non-messy snacks 
  • Sewing projects for after the meeting 
Volunteer Opportunities:
Guild volunteer opportunities have been posted in the forum. Your guild is only as good as the volunteers who participate. Please pick out a job and let Gerre know how you will contribute. Many hands make light work and new and creative ideas are always needed.

Upcoming Events:
Our Sew Day, Meeting and Holiday Party will all be on the same day - December 9th. Details to follow.

Other Reminders:
  1. Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  Don't forget, there are EXCLOOOOOOOSIVE Merit Hexies for special projects, such as dropping off Pet Beds, VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap, FiberShots, and the Triangle Challenge. Gerre has announced a new hexie for working on Quilts for Las Vegas.
  2. Remember to take away uneatened snacks and unclaimed items off the free table. Thanks! 
  3. Check out the October Meeting Minutes.
If you have any questions or want a space on the agenda, please leave a comment, or contact an officer before the meeting.

Monday, November 13, 2017

November Meeting Saturday

We look forward to seeing you Saturday November 18, 2017, for our monthly guild meeting! Join us at 1:00, at the Redwood City Library, in the upstairs community room.

Reminder about our BAM Merit Hexies challenge! Participation is the key to winning your hexies!

Things to bring:
  • Color my Quilt pieces - this is Melinda's month
  • Show and Tell - this is a great way to get to know people and we LOVE to see your stuff!!!
  • Your name tag (hexie available!)
  • Charity blocks and quilts 
  • Small Group projects (and ideas for new Small Groups!) 
  • Information about local/national quilty happenings 
  • Non-messy snacks 
  • Sewing projects for after the meeting 
Volunteer Opportunities:
Guild volunteer opportunities have been posted in the forum. Your guild is only as good as the volunteers who participate. Please pick out a job and let Gerre know how you will contribute. Many hands make light work and new and creative ideas are always needed.

Upcoming Events:
Our Sew Day, Meeting and Holiday Party will all be on the same day - December 9th. Details to follow.

Other Reminders:
  1. Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  Don't forget, there are EXCLOOOOOOOSIVE Merit Hexies for special projects, such as dropping off Pet Beds, VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap, FiberShots, and the Triangle Challenge. Gerre has announced a new hexie for working on Quilts for Las Vegas.
  2. Remember to take away uneatened snacks and unclaimed items off the free table. Thanks! 
  3. Check out the October Meeting Minutes.
If you have any questions or want a space on the agenda, please leave a comment, or contact an officer before the meeting.

Friday, November 3, 2017

Sew Day Tomorrow

Our next fun filled Sew Day is tomorrow, Saturday, November 4th!
Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Time: 10-4pm 

Some of us are planning on sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  They are asking for quilts (bed sized only) and children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics or help yourself to the charity donation fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self
Light non-messy snacks

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!) if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this Sew Day!  

Thank you Mary for setting this up!

Monday, October 30, 2017

Sew Day Saturday

Our next fun filled Sew Day is this coming Saturday, November 4th!
Meeting place:
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
Time: 10-4pm 

Some of us are planning on sewing pillowcases for the Happiness is a Warm Quilt drive for the fire victims in Napa and Sonoma Counties.  They are asking for quilts (bed sized only) and children's pillowcases. There is additional information here Happiness is a Warm Quilt info.
Bring your own fabrics or help yourself to the charity donation fabric to make pillowcases.

Please bring:
- Your sunny smiling self
- Light non-messy snacks

Plan to bring your own:
- Sewing machine
- Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
- Fabric and other project parts

We provide:
- Ironing Boards (2)
- Irons (2)
- Cutting Mats
- Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)

No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.

If you can, please get there early and help Mary set up!

Also, remember to put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!) if you leave early. If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Join in the fun at this Sew Day!  

Thank you Mary for setting this up!

Monday, October 23, 2017

October Meeting Minutes

The group had another fun-filled and informative meeting at the Redwood City Library Community Room. We were ably led by Gerre D. Amy, Nancy and Mary. A whole host of volunteers helped to make this meeting happen.

Upcoming events:

  • November 4: Sew Day
  • November 11: Sarah Goer Workshop
  • November 18: November Meeting
  • December 9: December Winter Party
  • January 6: Sew Day
  • January 13: Meeting Date


1. Question of the Day: What Color is LEAST represented in your stash?

  • Beige - 3
  • Black - 4
  • Brown - 9
  • Green - 1
  • Grey - 1
  • Orange - 3
  • Pink - 4
  • Red - 6
  • Tan - 2
  • Teal - 1
  • Yellow - 6
As usual, some of the comments were hilarious:
  • Regarding teal, the member who said that was she she had least of in her stash remarked that she knew she was swimming against the guild tide.
  • Regarding brown, one member said there was nothing wrong with brown
  • Another member said that she did not consider brown a real color
2. Membership - see Nancy and Annemarie to get set up

3. Merit hexies - be sure to pick up your awards.

4. 2018 Meeting dates and Sew Days are posted on the Meeting page.

5. Charity - Michelle & Peggy
  • they will bring fabric to Sew Day so members can make pillowcases for Sonoma and Santa Rose fire victims
  • The guild (thanks, Michelle!!!) now has labels for charity quilts
  • There area a few MassdDrop FQs left for charity projects.
Also, the money we pay to Grace Lutheran for the space goes to a fund at the church that has helped to build and stock a health center in the Sudan.

6. Pet Beds
  • last count: 60 donated
7. Library - Lee Ann
  • was available at the meeting
8. Retreat Wrapup
  • retreat was great
  • small gifts were given to Retreat committee members
9. Sarah Goer Workshop had 4 spaces left

10. Quilty Happenings
  • Thru 4/1/2018: Gees Bend Quilts at the DeYoung as part of another exhibit
  • Textile Tuesdays in SSF at the SSF library, 1.3
  • FabMo boutique 10/28
11. Meet Your Neighbor - Lee Ann interviewed Mary C.

Mary was born in Connecticut and grew up in Wisconsin. She moved to California to marry her husband of ~30 years, Mark. They have lived in Palo Alto for 27 years. Mark happens to be Marti's brother. 

Mary can't remember not sewing. She started with dolls, Kleenex and paper towels. A neighbor taught her how to sew. She worked on costumes for plays all through high school, then studied costume design in college. She worked for the Palo Alto Players for 6 years and made costumes for her children's high school productions

She is all about speed in sewing. Mary also makes wedding dresses and ball gowns. She considers them "costumes with demanding actresses."

She started quilting about 12 years ago. She also likes puzzles, games, dominos and watching (bingeing on) movies). She likes to travel and thinks that no matter where you go, you'll have good stories. 

Quick Questions:
  • Prints or solids? Prints leaning towards solids
  • Casserole or BBQ? BBQ
  • FMQ/Walking Foot? Walking foot
  • Curves or triangles? Curves
  • Wine or beer? Wine
Next month Mary will interview Tim H

12. Elections in November - see a board member if you want to run. Email Gerre whether you will continue your guild job for next year.

13. Forum notifications need to be coddled. If you are not getting notifications:
  • Login to the forum (http://bamodernquiltguild.ning.com/)
  • Click forum
  • Scroll all the way to the bottom 
  • click follow
  • You may need to toggle on/off, if you have done this step in the past.
  • You can also look into the options for email/RSS feed.
14. Baby Beeby Burpoff

We held a mini-baby shower for our founder, Ruth. She opened and graded beautiful burp cloths, pouches and other small baby gear and a gift card.

15. Color My Quilt - Melinda

Hope you are all caught up! Melinda is next up. She likes things as they morph, transitions and Escher. Her favorite color is raspberry.

16. The Holiday Extravaganza Palooza Swap is coming
  • Signups through Nov.1 Contact Cheryl via the forum thread.
  • Theme is kitchen
  • It is a regular swap with a theme
  • Wrap the gift in a pillowcase, which will be donated to the Santa Rosa/Sonoma fire victims
  • Swap will happen at the holiday party
  • Ideas are posted on the blog
17. Holiday Party will be 12/9 and will be organized by Alison and Michelle S.

18. Trunk Show. Sarah Goer

She has sewn as long as she can remember. She made her first quilt in 2002 and learned never to trust patterns. The directions  in Quilting for Dummies were wrong. She made her next quilts starting in 2010 using Very Hungry Caterpillar fabric. She uses a lot of Karlee Porter inspiration in graffiti quilting. She participates in challenges and has learned to work small. She has a new (and very popular, according to members) machine binding tutorial on her blog.

Friday, October 20, 2017

Meeting Tomorrow for October

We look forward to seeing you Saturday October 21, 2017, for our monthly guild meeting! Join us at 1:00, at the Redwood City Library, in the upstairs community room.

Reminder about our BAM Merit Hexies challenge! Participation is the key to winning your hexies!

Things to bring:


  • Color my Quilt pieces - this is catch up month
  • Show and Tell - this is a great way to get to know people and we LOVE to see your stuff!!!
  • Your name tag (hexie available!)
  • Charity blocks and quilts 
  • Small Group projects (and ideas for new Small Groups!) 
  • Information about local/national quilty happenings 
  • Non-messy snacks 
  • Sewing projects for after the meeting 
Volunteer Opportunities:
Gerre needs someone to organize the Winter Extravaganza/Holiday Party. She needs:
1) Gift Swap - we'll need to have the parameters by the Oct. meeting. Please note that ideas have already been posted.

2) Party Food - November meeting for guidelines. You can organize however you wish, including a pot luck. There is a budget for this.

Our Sew Day, Meeting and Holiday Party will all be on the same day - December 9th. Details to follow.

Other Reminders:
  1. Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  Don't forget, there are EXCLOOOOOOOSIVE Merit Hexies for special projects, such as dropping off Pet Beds, VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap, FiberShots, and the Triangle Challenge. Gerre has announced a new hexie for working on Quilts for Las Vegas.
  2. Remember to take away uneatened snacks and unclaimed items off the free table. Thanks! 
  3. Check out the May Meeting Minutes.
If you have any questions or want a space on the agenda, please leave a comment, or contact an officer before the meeting.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Meeting October 21


We look forward to seeing you Saturday October 21, 2017, for our monthly guild meeting! Join us at 1:00, at the Redwood City Library, in the upstairs community room.

Reminder about our BAM Merit Hexies challenge! Participation is the key to winning your hexies!

Things to bring:

  • Color my Quilt pieces - this is catch up month
  • Show and Tell - this is a great way to get to know people and we LOVE to see your stuff!!!
  • Your name tag (hexie available!)
  • Charity blocks and quilts 
  • Small Group projects (and ideas for new Small Groups!) 
  • Information about local/national quilty happenings 
  • Non-messy snacks 
  • Sewing projects for after the meeting 
Volunteer Opportunities:
Gerre needs someone to organize the Winter Extravaganza/Holiday Party. She needs:
1) Gift Swap - we'll need to have the parameters by the Oct. meeting. Please note that ideas have already been posted.

2) Party Food - November meeting for guidelines. You can organize however you wish, including a pot luck. There is a budget for this.

Our Sew Day, Meeting and Holiday Party will all be on the same day - December 9th. Details to follow.


Other Reminders:
  1. Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  Don't forget, there are EXCLOOOOOOOSIVE Merit Hexies for special projects, such as dropping off Pet Beds, VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap, FiberShots, and the Triangle Challenge. Gerre has announced a new hexie for working on Quilts for Las Vegas.
  2. Remember to take away uneatened snacks and unclaimed items off the free table. Thanks! 
  3. Check out the September Meeting Minutes.
If you have any questions or want a space on the agenda, please leave a comment, or contact an officer before the meeting.

Friday, October 6, 2017

October Sew Day TOMORROW

Our next fun filled Sew Day is TOMORROW, Saturday, October 7.
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
10-4pm

Please bring to share:
  • Your sunny smiling self
  • Light non-messy snacks
Plan to bring your own:
  • Sewing machine
  • Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
  • Fabric and other project parts
We provide:
  • Ironing Boards (2)
  • Irons (2)
  • Cutting Mats
  • Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)
  • No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.
If you can, get there early and help Mary set up! Please remember to put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!) if you leave early.  If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Please take any leftover snacks home with you. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Thanks to Mary for organizing this event!

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Winter Extravaganza Palooza Swap Ideas

The Winter Extravaganza-Palooza Swap is upon us, as is the holiday season and officer gift time. It might be early, but there are a lot of gifts to make so it is time to get started. You may not have your swap partner yet, take a look at some of the ideas below so you can check out tutorials that seem interesting and be ready to start creating as soon as you get your swap partner. You can also test out patterns so you can avoid the duds when it comes to making a fabulous swap gift.

The following list contains a few ideas. Ideas for projects were originally exchanged at the September 2015 meeting. Your editor has expanded on that list over the past two years, especially during the past few months.Where patterns are listed, it is for ease of use. Patterns have not necessarily been tested. Also, there may be other patterns and tutorials out in the blogosphere that are just as good or better. Not all patterns listed below are free.  The guild, generally, has no affiliation with the sites or vendors listed.

Apron
  •  Sew4Home's Festive Half Apron with Extra Large Pockets tutorial
  • Sewing pattern companies such as McCall's, Simplicity and Vogue all have apron patterns. the packets often include multiple versions.
Backpack
Bath bombs tutorial 
Bionic Bag
Board/ruler bag
Boxy bag
  • Snappy boxy pouch tutorial from Clover & Violet
Bunting
Camera case wristlet - pattern
Camera pouch - pattern
Camera strap - tutorial by ikatbags.com
Catch All Caddy by ByAnnie
Car trash bag - pattern 
Car ditty bag - tutorial
Cargo Duffel 2 - Noodlehead revised tutorial on the Robert Kaufman site 
Casserole carrier- pattern
Cell phone sling
Chair bag - tutorial 
Changing pad - pattern (make sure your giftee has a baby!)
Checkbook cover tutorial from SewVery
Clipboard (fabric covered) - tutorial from SewVery
Clutch bag - pattern from Clover & Violet
Coasters
Coin purse
Cold pack tutorial from SewVery
Composition book cover tutorial from Hip to Be a Square
Craft organizer tutorial 
Cup holder/ coffee cozy

Cushions / Throw pillows
  • Use any block
EPP Travel Kit
  • The Zen of Making pattern and tutorial. Make sure you look at the link for the optional pin cushion and other tutorials on EPP.
eReader /Tablet bags and cozies
  • Book Style Kindle cover tutorial from Clover & Violet
  • eReader sleeve with zipper closure - pattern
  • Scrappy Striped Tablet bag pattern
  •  
Eye pillow
Fabric basket (One Hour Basket)
Fabric boxes (tutorial)
Floor pillow - tutorial from SewVery
Garment bag tutorial from Sew4Home
Gift card holder - pattern from Valori Wells
Glasses case
Grocery bag -

  • Jane Market Bag/tote pattern by Alicia Paulson
  • Pattern by Michelle Patterns 
  • Ruby Market Tote tutorial from Clover & Violet
Hanging toiletry Basket (pattern found in In Stitches book)
Happy Birthday banner
Heating pad/ rice pack
Holiday banner
  • Charm square bunting tutorial from Hip to Be a Square
Idea pouch (pattern by Michelle Patterns) - holds notebooks, pens, pencils, etc
iPad Cover - (pattern by Michelle Patterns)
Iron Caddy
Jewelry

  • Starburst wrapper bracelet pattern
Jewelry roll
Journal cover
Keychain
Lanyard (tutorial)
Light switch plates (covered) - tutorial from Craft Buds
Luggage tag tutorial from Clover & Violet
Manicure roll-up bag tutorial from Hip to Be a Square
Mask
Mini ironing table (pattern/tutorial)
Mini quilt / wall hanging
Mug rug
Name tag
Napkins
Needle safe
  • Kantha Stitched Needlebook pattern  
  • Sew4Home's Full zippered Sewing (& More) Case tutorial
One Hour Baskets pattern/tutorial
  • Friends of the One Hour Basket pattern (for purchase)
Pattern weights (tutorial/pattern)
Pencil case
Pencil roll (Pink Chalk has an excellent pattern, but the shop is closed. If you can find one of these patterns somewhere, you won't be sorry.)
Pencil pouch - tutorial from Craft Buds
Pillowcase
  • Artquiltmaker Guide to the burrito style pillowcase pattern
  • Clover & Violet French Seam pillowcase pattern
  • Reversible pillowcases pattern  
  • Romantic Floral pillowcase with decorative cuffs tutorial from Sew4Home
Pincushion resources
Phone sleeve (tutorial)
Placemats -
Potholders
Project bag
  • Betsy Makes Project bag with zippers tutorial
  • Sew Mama Sew Fat Quarter project bag tutorial
Purse
  • Wristlet Cora purse pattern from Clover & Violet
Purse organizer
Remote control organizer
Retro Rucksack pattern from Radiant Home Studio 
Sash with Beaded Fringe (pattern found in In Stitches book)
Scissor Sheath (tutorial)
Sew Together Bag
Sewing machine cover
Sewing Organizer Bag - handwork tutorial 
Sketchbook cover tutorial
Sleeping mask  (pattern found in In Stitches book)
Softies
  • Stuffed fox with antlers pattern by Imaginegnats.com
Stitching folder
  • AllPeopleQuilt.com' Sew Perfect project by Linda Lum DeBono (you may have to sign up for an account or newsletter to get this project)
Table runner
Tablet cover
Tea cozy
Thermal cup holder
Thread catcher/pin cushion - tutorial
Tissue box cover tutorial from Craft Buds (you might want to include a box of tissues so the giftee knows the size) 
Tissue holder
Tote bag
Triple zip pouch (tutorial)
Undercover Maker Mat - free pattern on Craftsy by LillyElla Designs
Wallet
Water bottle strap
Wrist pin cushion
Zipper bag
  • Zipper pocket tutorial pattern  
Zipper pouch

There are numerous other resources with multiple projects, including:

Sunday, October 1, 2017

October Sew Day COMING SOON!

Our next fun filled Sew Day is  Saturday, October 7.
Location: Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306
(Corner of Waverly and Loma Verde Street)
10-4pm

Please bring to share:

  • Your sunny smiling self
  • Light non-messy snacks
Plan to bring your own:
  • Sewing machine
  • Cutting tools (your own personal mat if you want)
  • Fabric and other project parts
We provide:
  • Ironing Boards (2)
  • Irons (2)
  • Cutting Mats
  • Extension Cords (but you should pack one just in case!)
  • No donation needed! Unless you want to be generous of heart.
If you can, get there early and help Mary set up! Please remember to put your chair and table back (unless you are sharing a table!) if you leave early.  If you stay to the end your help is greatly appreciated in putting away all the tables and chairs. Please take any leftover snacks home with you. Many hands make light work! THANK YOU!

Thanks to Mary for organizing this event!

Monday, September 18, 2017

September Meeting Minutes

We had a great time at the meeting, though attendees were much more unruly than usual and Gerre had to put on her teacher voice to keep the meeting moving. ;-)

Gerre, Amy and Mary did a great job moving us through a long agenda that started with Introductions and Question of the Day.

1. QotD: Do you prewash or not and why?
21 people prewash
17 people do not prewash

Some people said they do it sometimes, or if they feel like it or if the fabric has been sitting around awhile. There was a lot of good discussion around this topic. Almost everyone prewashes flannel at least once. People don't like the feel of unwashed (prewashers) or washed (not prewashers) fabric. Some people don't like to iron after prewashing, but then there were those who prewash, but don't iron after. One person doesn't prewash because she doesn't like the frayed edges. Old fabric, fabric stored in the garage and Kona solids were the main reasons for prewashing. Some people don't plan ahead to sew, so they can't possibly prewash. Some prewash, because it is part of the process or like to handle the fabric as much as possible. Christina, our resident comedienne doesn't prewash because she doesn't actually sew, she only buys fabric. Amy was with her and got big laughs. One prewasher zigzags the edges of her yardage to keep it from fraying.

Two products mentioned were Synthrapol and Retayne, both available from Dharma (no affilliation).

2. Dues are $25 at this time of year. See Nancy (to pay) and Annemarie (for introductions, information and orientation) about membership.

3. Merit Hexies - there are two exclooooosives this month for the Hexie Swap and the Triangle Challenge. Gerre also gave out, one time only, bonus hexies.

4. Ongoing projects
  • Charity: Peggy and Michelle: had some patterns available for making charity quilts, which will be posted here soon. We have given away at least 120 quilts to various charities.
  • Pet Beds: Angela was available to collect pet beds
  • Library: Lee Ann had the library available
5. Fabric Donations, etc - Annemarie evaluates all donations in consultation with the Board, then coordinates with the person offering.

6. Retreat - Starts on Sept 29. There is one commuter spot left, 4 massage spots. People who have not provided emergency contacts should get in touch with the committee.

7. Photography - WANTED: extra photographer needed for guild meetings and the Retreat.

8. Meet Your Neighbor - Nicki interviewed Lee Ann, who was born and raised in Willows, Calif, which is the county seat of Glenn County. She still has cousins there and is heading up tonight for a visit. Lee Ann works in the biotech community in drug research and development and is currently looking for a new opportunity. Her favorite job, however, was when she worked in Yosemite for 3 months. She lives with her DH of 28 years and has no kids or pets. She started sewing in 4H with garments and started making quilts in high school. Her first quilt was made out of sewing fabrics from garments. She bought her first machine from the Quilting Bee when it was on Castro Street in Mountain View. She really started to quilt a lot when she joined the guild. Lee Ann had done a lot of other crafts including embroidery and stained glass. Other activities she enjoys when she is not quilting are swimming, yoga and Pilates.

Quick Qs:
  • Solids or Prints
  • Improv or Blocks
  • Triangles or Curves
  • Machine quilting or hand quilting
  • Walking foot or free motion quilting
Thanks, Lee Ann and Nicki!

11. Anna was the winner of the giveaway

12. Scrap Attack Strips - Challenge #3- strips including curved strips

Helen showed some slides with ideas on what type of quilts to make. Use your scraps! There is no minimum or maximum size. The quilt or item is due at the November meeting.

13. Joelle got her Color My quilt pieces and they are fabulous.

14. Jaye gave a trunk show. She has made over 130 quilts and showed us a fraction of them including ALL of her Fabric of the Year quilts. Jaye likes to work in a series and she showed us several quilts that were variations on a them. Check out her blog, especially the quilt gallery.

14. Hexie Swap - the people who participated in the Hexie swap got their gifts today. Cheryl did a great job organizing.

Thanks, everyone! See you next time.

Calendar: 
  • 9/23: Karen Foster Workshop
  • 9/23: Bay Area Sewists Meeting at Canada College. Sandra Betzina will be speaking
  • 9/24: Quilting in the Garden, 9-4, Alden Lane, Livermore 
  • 9/29-10/1: Guild Retreat!
  • 9/29: MassDrop quilting community meeting at Hello Stitch in Berkeley
  • 10/7: Sew Day at Grace Lutheran
  • 10/12-15: PIQF
  • 10/21: October Meeting

Friday, September 15, 2017

September Meeting, Tomorrow!

Our next meeting is tomorrow, Saturday, September 16th!


Redwood City Library, Community Room
1044 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, CA 94063
1-5 pm
Here are things to know about this meeting:
- Joelle's Color My Quilt "chunk" is due!
- Sign up for Karen Foster's Class (Sept. 23rd)  Karen Foster's Class. there are still a couple of spaces. (Note:  This class is labeled Improv Abstraction but it is a skill building class because she focuses on mild and severe curve piecing)
- Retreat!  There are a few spots left.  Talk to Christina or Nancy about payment and what spaces are left. 2017 Retreat Info

Things to Do:
1.  Along with your smile please bring your NAME Tag!
2.  Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  EXCLUSIVE Merit Hexies for VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap and FiberShots. New Hexie for Triangle Challenge!
3.  Light Snacks - PLEASE bring snacks. Also, please take home any uneaten snacks.

4.  Plan to Stay and Sew after our formal meeting ends. This is a great way to get to know your fellow guild members! Work on a project - or just visit with your friends.



Upcoming things to remember!
- Cheryl's Modern Hexie Swap due at this meeting.  Here are the details: BAM Modern Hexie Mini Swap.


See you tomorrow!

Monday, September 11, 2017

September Meeting Saturday 9/16/2017

Our next meeting is Saturday, September 16th!

Redwood City Library, Community Room
1044 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, CA 94063
1-5 pm
Here are things to know about this meeting:
- Joelle's Color My Quilt "chunk" is due!
- Sign up for Karen Foster's Class (Sept. 23rd)  Karen Foster's Class. there are still a couple of spaces. (Note:  This class is labeled Improv Abstraction but it is a skill building class because she focuses on mild and severe curve piecing)
- Retreat!  There are a few spots left.  Talk to Christina or Nancy about payment and what spaces are left. 2017 Retreat Info

Things to Do:
1.  Along with your smile please bring your NAME Tag!
2.  Make sure you check off your charity and service accomplishments and collect your BAM Merit Hexies.  EXCLUSIVE Merit Hexies for VA Sew Day, San Mateo County Fair, UFO Swap and FiberShots. New Hexie for Triangle Challenge!
3.  Light Snacks - PLEASE bring snacks. Also, please take home any uneaten snacks.

4.  Plan to Stay and Sew after our formal meeting ends. This is a great way to get to know your fellow guild members! Work on a project - or just visit with your friends.



Upcoming things to remember!
- Cheryl's Modern Hexie Swap due at this meeting.  Here are the details: BAM Modern Hexie Mini Swap.


See you Saturday!