Men’s formal wear can be a bit of a snooze-fest, but it hasn’t always been that way. During the 1700s, fashion-forward dudes wore vivid colors, lots of embroidery, elaborate hair pieces, and even high heels. That’s a far cry from the basic black of the modern tailored suit. Now, I’m not lining up for lacy cuffs or powdered wigs any time soon, but I do like to add a little personality to my outfit with a custom bow tie. Click HERE to learn how it’ done!
The monstera deliciosa is known by dozens of different names: Swiss cheese plant, fruit salad tree, Mexican breadfruit, Penglai banana. But no matter which name you use, this vine is totally massive! It can grow to be almost 70 feet tall. (That’s like Jack & the Beanstalk status, folks.) An average monstera leaf measures 30 inches by 36 inches, which is a fantastic size for a wall hanging. Click HERE to learn how to applique an awesome botanical quilt of epic proportions!
One slice of a tree trunk tells the story of a lifetime. Droughts, forest fires, peaceful growing conditions – it’s all written in the growth rings, and if you know what you’re looking for, you can read it like a history book. I guess I’m a bit like a tree, but my life story is written out through the quilts I design. This week I put together a patchwork tree quilt. It was inspired by my own experiences in the woods, and I know you’re gonna love it. Click HERE to learn how to make it!
When you’re spread out on your favorite quilt to enjoy a firework show, the last thing on your mind is science. But the truth is, every flash, boom, and burst of color is 100% dependent on chemistry. Lithium creates bright red sparks, chlorine mixed with copper makes turquoise, and Titanium powder produces that deafening blast we love so much. This week I’m mixing up my own recipe for fireworks using a few “In the Navy” charm packs. Click HERE to learn how to make this fun, patriotic quilt!
A quilt top, no matter how intricate, doesn’t have a ton of texture. It’s just…flat. That’s where FMQ comes into play. Because with a little planning, your stitch patterns can force the batting to puff – or crush – exactly where you want it. Last week I pieced together a Mariner’s Compass, and this week I’m finishing it off with an action-packed session of free motion quilting. Click HERE to learn how to give your compass quilt tons of 3-dimensional character with a few basic FMQ motifs.
Ahoy there! Don’t be afraid! Rob’s Mariner’s Compass Quilt may look like a doozy, but he’s got a secret weapon: The Quiltsmart paper piecing pattern with printed interfacing. This genius product will guide you every step of the way with sea-worthy accuracy – just like a real compass! Click here to watch Rob put together this gorgeous quilt!
