Pasta Dinner Night Tuesday October 26

Hello Everyone!

Well the pasta dinner night is coming in a hurry! I am soooooooo happy to say that tickets have finally started to sell, and it is going to be a GREAT time!!

Tickets are available at Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. 211 Martindale Road, or if you know you will be attending, just send me a note and I will keep tickets just for you at the door. Everyone is welcome so bring your friend or family. It is a drop in buffet and very casual. I would love to be your hostess for the evening and here are all of the details.

All proceeds from this event will go towards Quilting and Sewing in Nicaragua, and also to buy school uniforms and medical supply packs.

Tuesday October 26, 2010

5:00 - 8:00 pm

Club Belvedere

57 John Street, Thorold

$15.oo includes Buffet Pasta Dinner and dessert

Cash Bar Available

Silent Auction

Little Brown Bird

Hello Everyone, I had another work of art come into my workshop recently. Here are some pictures of "Little Brown Bird". Totally hand Appliqued and so well done. It will be hanging at the Niagara Heritage Quilt show in may.

A couple of Raps

The Niagara Fall Shop Hop was a great event this past weekend. It was fantastic to see so many quilters out and about visiting the 3 stores. I really hope that everyone went home inspired and ready to start on some new fall projects. Pictured is Michelle in front of her store, Kindred Spirits Quilt Co.

There sure was some fun last week at Jane's In Stitches Niagara On The Lake Workshop, during Background Fillers training classes. I took some pictures of the ladies hard at work, and also happy at the end of the day with their samples. Way to go girls, you did a great job! I hope you are all practicing and doodling your hearts out.

The next set of classes start on Oct. 22, 2010 - So Much Fun With Feathers. For complete details check out the Aug. Archives or contact me at i_quilt_4u@hotmail.com or 905-938-8422

Niagara Fall Shop Hop This Weekend

Hello Everyone,

One question......where did September go? That would be the million dollar question. I know we are all busy, but wow, I think I just blinked and here we are heading into October, already. The fall retreats are getting so close, fall fairs are underway, and the Christmas rush has started for all Longarm Machine Quilters. I will for sure welcome with a happy heart, the new month and all that goes with it......but....I'm just saying?

Looking back, September was a fun filled action packed month. Heading North in the Uhaul to get Bowen settled in at school.... :) spending time with friends from the past, planning the Nicaragua trip, The Pad Party, and quilting, quilting, quilting. Yes it was a great month. With so many action packed days, no wonder it went in a hurry. Maybe I'll slow down in Oct and it will last longer. Ya right.....Not likely but for today's post lets go with that!

So the Niagara Shop Hop is this weekend, and I for one Love this event. It is a great time for quilting friends old and new to get together and check out whats going on at all of the shops. Each have their own flair, and if anything else ohhhh what a motivator to get us all moving on some fall projects.

Niagara Falls, Patchwork Porch
Fonthill, The Quilting Bee
St Catharines, Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. (that's where I hang out :)

So here is how it works. Whatever shop you start at will give you a passport, and each shop will give you a stamp on that passport and at the last stop, just hand it in and you will be entered into the big draw. I'm not sure what the prize is, but from years past I know it won't be disappointing. It gets better......each shop also gives the shop hoppers (which I like to call you) a free give away and also a free pattern for their individual Featured Shop Hop Quilt. You can count on discounts throughout the stores, and refreshments and snacks also. So, trust me, this event is so worth your time. Don't forget to throw lunch in there somewhere.....time spent with our quilting friends can only "do a girls heart some good``.

The quilts below are those I have been working on over the past few weeks, and you will run into them this weekend.

Ill be in my room so come in I would love to see you. Enjoy your day with whoever you travel with. And remember...``the one with the biggest stash wins``

`To Grandmothers House We Go``

Stitched and Pieced by Sharon Watson

Class at The Quilting Bee

This is a great quilt with allot of hand stitching. Sharon you did a great job and I loved to quilt it for you. I hope you can zoom in on this picture so you can see the details.



Pumpkin Hanger Kit available at Kindred Spirits Quilt Co.

``I Believe``

Pieced by Susan Fortino

If you can believe it, Susan did all of the applique on her quilt by hand, and this isn`t her first either. Just a beauty, and again I hope you can click to see more of the detail.

``My True Love Game to Me.......``

Raffle Quilt

Raffle Quilt in support of Quilting and Sewing in Nicaragua

(Did you honestly think I would get through a whole blog without mentioning a fundraiser!)
I`ll be brief :)

Tickets are $2.00 ea. or 3 for $5.00 and available at Kindred Spirits or Jane

This quilt was a team effort and pieced by me, Gloria Meyer, Sharon Watson, and the Binding, Dianne Civak

Custom Quilted by Jane

And one last mention. The Pasta dinner and Silent Auction is coming up fast! October 26. It is a very casual evening with a drop in Buffet between 5-8 pm. It is a delicious meal, and we will be all eating for a great cause. Bring your families and friends to this fun, night, and I look forward to being your hostess!

Tickets are $15.00 ea and available at Kindred Spirits or Jane, 905-938-8422

That's it for now!! Happy quilting, Happy Hopping, see you soon!

Stitch-a-Thon a Roaring Success!

The Pad Party was a huge success! Over 30 sewers aka Pad Princesses, joined together in Niagara on the Lake to make Sanitary Pads (finished result pictured above) for me to take to Nicaragua in January. I am travelling there to teach Sewing and Quilting to a group of ladies who would like to start their very own Co-op. My heart broke when I learned that some of the girls, miss out on school every month because they don't have the supplies to manage their periods and that is why this night of outreach began.
This is Kristyn, who is a pro at serging! She finished over 200 pads! What a trooper. I on the other hand couldn't serge to save my life. Kristyn is my dear friend from Ilderton and is also on the Team travelling to Nicaragua. Thanks for being there and for all of your help :)
Jane and Sharon. Sharon was the brains behind the whole Pad production. I gave her the idea and she ran with it! She worked for weeks on the final Pad design, and made sure that the production line was organized and everyone had a job. This girl truly has a beautiful heart.
And this is the group that made this effort such a success. 185 liners and many extra pads were made during the evening and donations of $1500.00 were collected with more on the way. This is so huge! To every single one of you, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your friendship, support and helping hands.

Classes are full! New Date Added

All scheduled longarm class are now full, so I have added an additional Background Fillers class for Thurs. Sept 23. If you are interested in joining let me know soon and I will reserve your spot. There are only 2 spaces left.

I have to say that I am thrilled about the interest shown towards my classes and I am looking forward to these fun filled training days!

To view Complete information about classes go to Archives August 15.

Happy Labour Day & Nicaragua Update

Hello everyone, and Happy Labour Day. This is usually the weekend that the switch is flipped concerning the weather, and we can feel fall rapidly approaching. This year sure isn't any different. Windy and cool for the parades, but I am sure the party goers won't let that stop them.

My son, Bowen left for college today, 4 hrs away, his second year. He is so excited to be sharing a house with a couple of his friends. My goodness, the day is here, which at the beginning of this summer I thought would never arrive. ....What a great summer, I just wish I could make time stand still....The reality of Bowen leaving the nest has hit me suddenly like a ton of bricks. I'm not feeling so much in the party mood. People say,don't panic, and offer up some good tips to lessen the anxiety but the best idea for sure will be a sisters night out, this week. They always make me feel better. Don't get me wrong, it is so fantastic to see the happiness,and excitement in your child as he starts out another year. I am so proud of the man he has become and I am excited for his future. He's got it going on :) . I know, I need to start a new quilt that will fix me right up! Yes that's it, Devon your black and white Log Cabin is on the way!

The fall season, brings with it a fresh new start for all.

I have been busy preparing for the trip to Nicaragua, to teach Sewing and Quilting. The date has been changed to Jan. 3, and that's OK I'll be ringing in the New Year with my family - a good thing.

Every time I get together with the 12 other people on our team, the more excited I get about this whole trip. Each one brings their own unique reasons for being involved in this venture, and I have a hunch when everything is said and done, we will all be fast friends. Every time we meet, I find out more and more about the needs of the people that we will be working with. There has been some communication with the pastor of the community, and he has relayed to us that the women are very excited to know of our plans. It is their hope to start a co-op with the skills we will teach and one of the projects will be a traditional peasant blouse.

There is a trip planned one afternoon to visit a Women's hospital. The ladies travel a long way to go to this hospital for treatments and It is our hope to be able to take a gift bag full of toiletries and a nitie for each one.

I have listed some items in need and if you can help out, than please let me know and I will arrange to pick up and Thank you so much!

Soaps, Lotions, combs, toiletries, tooth brushes and paste.

We are looking to fill 50 bags. The small bottles that you get from hotels would even be great.

Head Scarves

Nities- Variety of sizes - new only please

Underwear - Variety of sizes - new only please

Clear plastic zippered bags - (the ones that a comforter or sheets would come in)

Hockey Bags for us to pack in - We need a lot of them!! :) Not the huge goalie ones and no wheels please.

Also just a reminder that the Pasta Dinner/Silent Auction fundraiser is on Tuesday October 26 at Club Belvedere, Thorold. Tickets are $15.00 each and available through me or at Kindred Spirits. Bring your family and friends, I can't wait to be your host!!

The Stitch-A-Thon is going to be great. And is coming up in a hurry! Friday Sept. 17. Our big hearted friend Sharon Watson has so graciously taken on the job of organizing the design and assembly line for the pad production. Her goal is 100 pads and extra liners! Thank you Sharon, I owe you big time! There are still a few spots left, so check out all of the information below and let me know if you can join in for this fun and worth while evening of outreach.

Stitch-A-Thon

Friday Sept. 17, 2010

Grace United Church Hall

222 Victoria Ave.
Niagara On The Lake

2 pm until you can't take it anymore!

Hosted by, Jane Sandercock

All proceeds going to PAN Missions Canada, Sewing Mission Nicaragua

This is going to be such a fun event!

We will start to gather at the hall around 2pm and if you can't make it then, just come whenever you can and join in. Bring whatever it is that you would like to work on and I'll make sure to have a couple of ironing stations ready to go. Be sure to bring your sewing supplies, and an extension cord.

If you would like to donate some of your time working for the cause, then I will have an assembly line in action to make sanitary pads. These are such a necessity, but sadly a luxury for the ladies in Nicaragua. All of the supplies and directions for this project will be provided.

All we need is an hour of your time, your capable hands and your sewing machines!

A Pizza Party is included, complete with snacks and dessert.

Bring your own drinks.

So please bring yourself, a friend or a group! Everyone is welcome.It`s a guaranteed fun night for a Great cause!

Call me soon to reserve your spot as space is limited. 905-938-8422

This is a fundraising event. When you sign up, pledge sheets are available or a personal donation is welcomed.

Well I sure did have a lot to say today!! Good therapy for an empty nester. :) Have a great rest of the Labour Day Weekend!!

Underground Railroad

I had the opportunity to quilt a couple of Underground Railroad Quilts. The pictures are above and I hope you can zoom in to see some of the quilting details. Same pattern and story, but different fabrics put an original spin on each of these beauties. The story behind these quilts is fascinating and here is just a glimpse of that. I have added this pattern to my list of things to do. Enjoy

Underground Railroad Quilt Code

Secret messages in the form of quilt patterns aided slaves escaping the bonds of captivity in the Southern states before and during the American Civil War.

Slaves could not read or write; it was illegal to teach a slave to do so. Codes, therefore, were part and parcel of the slaves’ existence and their route to freedom, which eventually became known as the Underground Railroad. Some forms of dance, spirituals, code words and phrases, and memorized symbols all allowed the slaves to communicate with each other on a level their white owners could not interpret. Codes were created by both whites aiding the slaves, and by Blacks aiding the slaves. The Blacks included other slaves, former slaves or free men and women. In slavery, secrecy was one way the blacks could protect themselves from the whites; even the youngest child was taught to effectively keep a secret from anyone outside of the family.

Most quilt patterns had their roots in the African traditions the slaves brought with them to North America when they were captured and forced to leave their homeland. The Africans’ method of recording their history and stories was by committing it to memory and passing it on orally to following generations. Quilt patterns were passed down the same way. It is interesting to note that, in Africa, the making of textiles was done by males; it was not until the slaves’ arrival in North America that this task fell to the females.

The quilt patterns, used in a certain order, relayed messages to slaves preparing to escape. Each pattern represented a different meaning. Some of the most common were “Monkey Wrench”, “Star”, “Crossroads”, and “Wagon Wheel”. Quilts slung over a fence or windowsill, seemingly to air, passed on the necessary information to knowing slaves. As quilts hung out to air was a common sight on a plantation, neither the plantation owner nor the overseer would notice anything suspicious. It was all part of a day’s work for the slaves.

Characteristic of African culture is the communication of secrets through the use of common, everyday objects; the objects are seen so often they are no longer noticeable. This applied to the quilts and their patterns, stitching and knotting. It has been suggested that the stitching and the knotting on slave quilts contained secret information, too, as map routes and the distances between safe houses. Using the quilts, spirituals and code words, the slaves could effectively communicate nonverbally with each other and aid each other to escape.

There is still controversy among historians and scholars over the quilt code theory, and whether or not escaping slaves actually used codes concealed within quilt patterns to follow the escape routes of the Underground Railroad. As oral histories leave no written record, there is no written proof that the codes in the quilt patterns actually existed. What remains are the stories passed down through the generations from the slaves themselves, and, following the code of secrecy, many of the stories were never told.

Fairies and a Rose Garden, By June

I recently met a very talented lady named June who is into embroidery work. And wow has she created some incredible pieces. These are just a couple that I loved. Look at the Fairies. They are just beautiful. I was amazed at how June used different textiles, shiny, textured and beaded to create this one of a kind crazy quilt! What a vision.




The rose garden below is a total play with thread! I bet the thread dealers Loooove to see June coming through their door. I can imagine looking out a window to see this view. Absolutely stunning work. Thank You for allowing me to share your treasures with my friends. :)
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Sew, Quilt or Knit Until You Drop Stitch-A-Thon!!

Friday Sept. 17, 2010

Grace United Church Hall

222 Victoria Ave.
Niagara On The Lake

2 pm until you can't take it anymore!

Hosted by, Jane Sandercock

All proceeds going to PAN Missions Canada, Sewing Mission Nicaragua

This is going to be such a fun event!

We will start to gather at the hall around 2pm and if you can't make it then, just come whenever you can and join in. Bring whatever it is that you would like to work on and I'll make sure to have a couple of ironing stations ready to go. Be sure to bring your sewing supplies, and an extension cord.

If you would like to donate some of your time working for the cause, then I will have an assembly line in action to make sanitary pads. These are such a necessity, but sadly a luxury for the ladies in Nicaragua. All of the supplies and directions for this project will be provided.

All we need is an hour of your time, your capable hands and your sewing machines!

A Pizza Party is included, complete with snacks and dessert.

Bring your own drinks.
`

So please bring yourself, a friend or a group!

It`s a guaranteed fun night for a Great cause!

Call me soon to reserve your spot as space is limited. 905-938-8422

This is a fundraising event. When you sign up, pledge sheets are available or a personal donation is welcomed.

New Fall Class Schedule!

This fall, I am offering specialty machine quilting classes, which are designed for operators of longarm and midarm quilting machines. Classes are taught on Gammill longarms and are friendly to all track system machines. They are hands on, with 2 students per machine.

Training days are intense, however, they are in a small group setting, with individual attention given to each student. Please join me in my Niagara On The Lake workshop, for a guaranteed fun filled day.

Lunch, take home samples and handouts are provided.

Space is limited so please reserve your spot early.
Call Jane at 905-938-8422

Fri. Sept. 24 & Sat. Oct. 23, 2011

Free Hand Fillers with a Twist.

So you have purchased your machine and have been “panto-ing” every quilt in sight. Now it’s time to come out from the back of that machine and freehand! In this fun filled hands-on class you will learn designs that can be used as tight background fillers or as a large all over design. Swirls, leaves, flowers and fabulous meanderings will be some of the styles you will learn.

Cost $199.00 + taxes
9:30AM-4PM Lunch is provided
Be sure to bring along a sketch pad and pencil

Samples of designs and techniques taught in classes. Also, browse side pictures.

Sat Sept. 25 & Fri .Oct. 22, 2011

So Much Fun With Feathers

If you know me, then you know that I love, love, love feathers! Come and learn with ease, the art of creating award winning feathers. This class will have you making fabulous feathers in no time. We will start with the basics of quilting the beauty of feathers and then move on to more advanced designs. Creating feathers in borders, blocks and sashings will all be covered in this class.
Cost $199.00 + taxes
9:30AM-4PM Lunch is provided
Be sure to bring along a sketch pad and pencil

Sewing Mission Trip - Nicaragua January

I am so excited to say, that I have decided to join another Mission Team, this time travelling to, Nicaragua.
My friend Kristyn McCoy from Ilderton, and 11 others from the Kitchener/Waterloo area and myself make up the team. Our team has one common goal in mind and that is to travel to Nicaragua, to teach sewing and quilting skills to a motivated group of woman who have a vision of starting their very own Co-operative. I for one going to work hard to make the dreams of these women come true and I need your help.
The area we are travelling to is called Niquinohomo which is a remote village in the hills. This area has many agricultural farms producing limes, oranges, mandarins, bananas and avocados. Nicaragua is the second largest country in Central America and the second poorest as well. It's population is just under 6 million people, of which 48% of the population lives below the poverty line and 80% of the population lives with less than $2 per day.

Our team will be working along side Panmission Canada who have been working and blessing the people of Nicaragua since 1997.
Panmission Canada worked in this community 2 yrs ago building a church, but our team will be the first to provide training in the interest of sewing and quilting. This is a huge undertaking and is going to require a lot of work.
We leave on Jan. 1, 2011, what a great way to start a New Year!! Since we are starting with nothing.....all quilting and sewing supplies are needed. Some of the items the group will be learning how to make may include diapers, crib bedding for the hospital, aprons, slings to carry their children, sanitary pads and other household items.
Nicaragua has such a disrupted power system, it is my vision to focus also on hand piecing and hand quilting. I know...there is something wrong with that....Jane Sandercock....Longarm Machine Quilter, teaching hand piecing? All I can say is "Thank goodness I have been working on a Farmers Wife Quilt...pieced all by hand". Seriously it only makes sense. Hand piecing projects can be easily picked up under any circumstance, and even worked by candle light.
This sewing program will need all the support they can get and once again I will be collecting sewing and quilting supplies. If you have anything that you wish to donate please contact me and we will make the arrangements.

Our Wish List for Nicaragua:

Pins and Needles
Scissors of all sizes
Thread - a variety of all colours
Elastic, Snaps, Buttons and Velcro
Fabric - at least one metre cuts
Rotary cutters, and blades (lots of blades)
Rulers
Thimbles,
Q - snaps
etc, etc, etc.
Quilt patterns written in Spanish - :) just thought I would put it out there.

Please be assured that any monetary donations made to me will be used to buy additional supplies, or will go directy to Nicaragua to bless a family in need.
Our team will also be visiting a hospital. If you are a knitter, then baby caps are of great need and would be so fantastic and booties would be over the moon! Recently an air conditioner was installed in the hospital facility, and the nurses, not use to the cold are freezing. We have been asked to collect button up sweaters (cardigans) or zippered hoodies. Thank you.
As the needs arise I will let you know.
Over the next few weeks I will be letting you know how you can become more involved so check back often. Fundraisers in the planning include; Quilt raffle, Sew-a-Thon, Pasta Dinner Night.
If you would like to be involved or have the vision and ambition to make a fundraiser of your own or in a group, that would be so amazing!


Gracias todo para su apoyo y generosidad en el pasado y en el avance y para el futuro.
(Thank you all for your support and generosity in the past and in advance for the future.)

Dia Bueno (good day)

Jane
905-938-8422

All in a days work :)

Daisy Swirl - Jodi Beamish. Great Edge to Edge pattern to add to your collection.



Hi all, here I am again, even I'm amazed! Let me tell you once you get onto this blogging idea it becomes addictive.

Over the past little while I have been taking picture after picture of ideas and quilts that I think are worthwhile sharing. I hope you have enjoyed them. I'm still having a hard time blogging about me personally. I must say....hummm maybe I'm boring? So for now, I'll stick with sharing with you, intriguing quilts that come into my shop, and fun happenings around Kindred Spirits Quilt Shop. Trust me if anything earth shattering happens around here....I'll be sure to fill you in. For now, life is good, quiet and right on track :) Everything is in place.







Mirage - A Bargello Quilt




Mirage Pattern by : Dereck Lockwood

Pieced by: Gloria Meyer



This stunning Bargello wall hanging came into my shop last week and at first glance I thought "Oh no"! Sometimes during a consult with a customer a quilt stares me in the face and challenges me to come up with the perfect ideas to present to its owner. Believe me I have been put on the spot more than a few times but I don't mind, its all in a days work, and a good challenge keeps me on my toes!

Perfect example, at first glance this Bargello didn't speak one word to me. It looked really confusing, and complicated. I had the feeling it was worthy of more than an all over pattern....but what to do? So, I took first of all a deep breath, then a few steps back, and the most obvious design areas to me were the pink diamond and also the green cross so I worked from there. The blue, purple and yellow areas seemed like a shadow to the prominent design space. I quilted Elegant Feathers (surprise) in the pink and green areas and simply ditched the rest of the squares. Yes, every square I didn't want a secondary design to clash with the feathers, so I figured, simple in this case was the best choice. Most quilters are not fans of ditch stitching, but for me its not a problem, and actually enjoy the process. The owner Gloria told me that in this Bargello Hanging there are 1677 Squares! I finished it up with a double eco swirl on the boarder.

It can been viewed at Kindred Spirits and the kits are $76.95



Rambling Rose




The Rambling Rose Quilt is more in my comfort zone! The log cabin block are arranged in such a way that a perfect light design area is created, and excellent for feathers




This is one of the many sampler blocks pieced into the quilt. I Pounced and then quilted the same stencil design in each block, to keep a somewhat orderly look.


Hearts, Swirls and Peacock Meandering finished up the boarders perfectly.

I love this quilt and may add it to my list of ones to piece before I die. :) I better live a longggg life!

And Finally



"Asking a quilter to mend is like asking Picasso to paint your garage". (I love that quote)



Thanks for stopping by.

Niagara Shop Hop Report!

This past weekend was the Spring Niagara Shop Hop and wow what a success! The event began on Thurs. and we were busy right through until the end on Sat. It is just a great weekend for friends to get together and go to all 3 shops in the area and to check out whats new in our quilt shops.
On Thursday, I put aside some time to go to The Quilting Bee, Fonthill and the Patchwork Porch, Niagara Falls to check it all out, and to snap a couple of photos before landing at my home store Kindred Spirits to spend the rest of the weekend.
Each store had their very own "Shop Hop Quilt" and they also gave out a free gift.


Kindred Spirits Quilt Co.
Midnight in the Rose Garden, Kit 99.95
Designed by Nancy Nigh, and quilted by Moi!

Feathers, feathers and more feathers, because as you know, I love feathers! I love how Nancy put a twist to the traditional Dresden Plate.

The store was loaded, with fabric and kits. There sure is no shortage of Flannels and also novelty fabrics!

I was in my room, doing some Longarm Demonstrations, and had a great time showing off some different techniques.
All weekend long we served, goodies and fruit and had punch and coffee on hand. It was great to see groups of ladies, enjoying a visit on the patio furniture out front, and so many had lunch at Cafe Amore. We all hope that you enjoyed your visit!



The Patchwork Porch
Chinese Puzzle, Kit 119.95

This Quilt was so bright and fun! A breath of fresh air. It was displayed on a chair with matching pillows. The store was a buzz with quilters, checking out the new fabrics! While I was there, Debbie and Al we so busy cutting fabric, I wonder how long they lasted, I hope they had a second shift arranged! Every 30 min. or so, they had a draw for special prize! I didn't win.... rats, but the goodies were delicious!

The Quilting Bee
Rick Rack out of Whack
Designed by Susan Fuquay, Kit 99.95

This quilt is very pretty. The beautiful fabrics made this simple design just perfect.
The Quilting Bee had a beautiful display of samples and so many new fabric lines. We had so much fun on the Porch as Linda gave a demo on a ruler for binding. Used correctly, this ruler will guarantee perfect binding every time! Now we're talking! Oh ya, I left with one.

I really hope that everyone had a great time doing the Shop Hop! So now, its back to usual for me....I may get some time in the garden!! I'll be working in my room At Kindred Spirits every Wednesday and its business as usual here in Niagara On the Lake.

Friday Feather Quilters

Here are the Friday Feather Quilters with their samples. Tired and ready to hit the road for home! Way to go girls, great day!

Fun Filler and Feather Classes

Hi All!

Some fun was had at my Niagara On The Lake location, last Thursday and Friday, during class time! The classes offered were Background Fillers and Freehand Feathers.
Both days we started sharp at 10 am after a getting to know you coffee, and got straight to work first off trying out some basic designs, and then moving into the intricate and challenging techniques.
The quilters that participated were motivated and ready to move out from behind their machines. Each quilter had a sample piece to work on for the day, and
to take home.
Both days of training are definitely challenging and motivating, in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Hopefully all of the quilters went home with some great new ideas so they can begin to develop their very own custom style.
The pictures below are of the quilters at the end of the day ready to return to their own workshops and try the new techniques.

nd

Donations Needed

I have a cousin named Diane, who works at a nursing home and she is organizing a quilting group with some of the residence. I think this is a great project for all involved and they are so excited!

Diane is in need of all kinds of supplies; fabrics, scissors, rulers, cutters, thread etc. Old machines are needed also. If you have anything hanging around that you can part with, please let me know and I will arrange to have it picked up and get it to the group as soon as possible.



905-938-8422



I hope you can help, and Thanks!

Niagara Shop Hop June 3rd, 4th, 5th

The Niagara Shop Hop is fast approaching. This year the stores are Kindred Spirits, Quilt Co., St. Catharines, The Quilting Bee, Fonthill, and The Patchwork Porch, Niagara Falls.
I love a good Shop Hop and am greatful to the store owners for putting it on. Each store gives a free gift, and also the pattern to their "Specially" designed Shop Hop Quilt. If you go to all 3 stores, you have a chance to win another $250 at each shop! That's not small potatoes! I'm so going!
So often we get caught up in the routine of our everyday lives, and I think this weekend is just a great time to put everything else aside and spend some good old girlfriend time together. Over the years I have had a lot of laughs hopping around, and I hope you take this opportunity and enjoy the day. I'll be at Kindred Spirts each day, doing Longarm Quilting Demonstrations.

Extended Hours

Thurs. June 3rd

9:30 am To 8 pm

Fri. June 4th

9:30 am to 5:30 pm

Sat. June 5th

9:30 am to 5:30 pm

And Yes!! We will have Treats!! (and good ones too!)

What a great Tuesday!

So, I usually say that Monday is my favourite day of the week, you know....I love a fresh start and that's usually what Mondays hold for me, but so far today, has yesterday beat!
Such a simple day but isn't simple usually the best? It started out with a nice walk with my Pal Wyatt. Come to think of it...I should start every day like this. He cracks me up, and I could watch him run forever. To watch the pure joy on his face..I swear I can see him smile as he runs through the fields, puddles and prickers!

I got home, and it was off to work. The photo below is a Sampler made from Maywood, Wild Rose. What a beautiful line of fabric.
I Quilted it with the Panto Royal Plumes by Judi Allen. This pattern is great when you are looking for a fabulous overall feather, it looks custom quilted and has a very elegant finish. Great for wide open design spaces and since its a panto, the price is reasonable for the customer.

Tomorrow I will be working in my space at Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. I always look forward to being there on Wed. I can't wait to see whats new in the store. I should probably put my blinders on, so I don't blow the wad! Could Wednesday actually beat Tuesday and my favourite day Monday? I'll keep you posted.

Earth Wind & Fire

Oh Man what happened to the Spring? Such a change in the weather, made for a perfect day to hang out in my Longarm room at Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. I did some quilting, piecing and had some creative moments and alot of laughs with my girlfriends.
The main topic today, seemed to be focused on our moms. I am really missing my mom and was so happy to talk about the good days with her. She was a special lady, and I was so lucky to have her also as my best friend. So I hope this weekend, we all hug tight those woman that have made a difference in our lives.

I have had so many amazing quilts in my shop over the years, but sometimes a special one really stands out. One that has been given so much consideration for the planning of fabrics, patterns, threads and quilting designs. In the stories that I hear, I can see that every single stitch has been done with love straight from the heart.
Not long ago, I had one of these and I would like to share its story with you.
The quilt was pieced and designed by Hedy and her two daughters, Elaine and Barbara, for the special occasion of Elaine's daughters upcoming marriage.

As soon as these three woman came into my shop, for their initial consult I could feel the energy between them. As they told the story of the journey of this quilt I realized, they were all very excited that finally they were at the finishing stage. So with video camera in Elaine's hand, we continued with the consult! (they wanted to document the process to is completion)
Here is what Elaine wrote.
This quilt is a 25 block sampler that my mother (87), sister, and I designed for my daughter's wedding. My daughter lives in Arizona and together we chose the batik fabrics during one of my visits in November 2008. Although my daughter had a hand in choosing colours, she does not know that I have been sewing with her grandmother and Aunt since January 2009. It has been a long time to complete, but well worth it. We wanted to design a quilt where each block has some significance. My mother did six applique blocks. Snowflake to represent Canada, Honey Bee, and other blocks which grandma had used for her in another quilt years ago. My brother-in-law designed a fish block as the fiance loves to fish and hunt. Also, a Bear Paw fit perfectly. I chose the Housewife Block for the center because the housewife is the center of the home. Along with other blocks like Arizona Star, Patience Block, Wild Thing, lightning in the Kitchen, Golden Wedding Ring, and Bride's Bouquet they all have meaning. After a lengthy discussion with the gentleman who owned the quilt shop in Arizona, I decided to construct the blocks to make the quilt square. Also, I added one extra row so that the side blocks would hang over from the sides of the bed. Something I had never considered before. This way, the quilt can be turned any one you please. Careful, you must choose blocks that can be turned also.

Driving to Niagara and visiting my mom and sister every one or two weeks and sewing together was a fabulous way to spend our time. We laughed and ripped seams, calculated, ditched a few blocks we made. My sister and I took "homework" home and came back with unfinished blocks, while my mother had her six done in no time! Amazing at her age. She also kept us on track and provided years of experience toward our figuring out what went wrong.

Earth Wind and Fire

Pieced and designed by;
Hedy Nagy
Barbara Johnston‏

Elaine Wilson

I knew that this Sampler was a "Special Labour of Love" and I never take this lightly. To my amazement they had all agreed to let me "go to it" and let my creative juices flow! We did discuss some designing and thread colours, just to make sure that we were all on some what of the same page, after all there were 4 heads being put together at this point.

With all of this freedom, I had a great time while stitching, and designing this piece. It was on the frame for a few days, and by the end, I actually felt attached, but made the call so the girls could make a date to pick it up. Unfortunately, Barb was under the weather, but Hedy, and Elaine are pictured below with the finished quilt.

What a treasure and how happy they both were! After such a long process, all of their efforts were finally realized! I admire all 3 of them for completing this beautiful Quilt. To give a gift with such meaning and love attached is priceless. To spend so much time with mother and sister, is irreplaceable. What memories must have been made

I have such a great job. To be involved with a project like this is to say the least....great, and so rewarding. For me to be able to work with my passion of Quilting everyday is absolutely a Blessing.

Happy Mothers Day to all of you wonderful Ladies

May Classes are Full!

The Feathers, and Freehand Classes for May are now full. But don't worry if you are interested in another date, than just let me know, and I will add days as required.

Classes are taught at my home studio in Niagara on The Lake and both are fun, intense days of training. Both classes cover, boarders, sashings and design areas. Students leave with ideas, new techniques and inspiration to take their quilting expertise to a new level. Each student is encouraged to develop and appreciate their own style.

Keep checking back, I will have the September class schedule available soon.

Jane's In Stitches Facelift!

My blogspot has had a face lift and I think its Beautiful!
Thank you Gina, and Kristyn for all of your help. Now I think I'm on my way to the wonderful world of Blogging, so here it goes!
I have been a Longarm Quilter for 10 years, working from home In Niagara On The Lake, Ontario. I have to say it has been a good life for me. Turning my hobby into my business, and being at home for my Son Bowen during his school years. Bowen is now just finishing up his 1st year of college :)
Today, my studio is equipped with 2 Gammill Classics and one Classic at my second location, at Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. 211 Martindale Road St. Catharines where you can find me every Wed. My room there is loaded with threads and patterns just like my home studio and I have had a ball meeting with new and old Customers.
I joke and say that "I have moved back out into the real world". Honestly no more track pants and hair bands for me! New clothes here I come, and I may even get my nails done every now and again! Truly, this has been a great move and I'm enjoying every second.
Kindred Spirits Quilt Co. is an adorable shop, and worth a look. Michelle, the owner has a fresh perspective when it comes to quilting, and her taste in fabric is wonderful. The atmosphere in the shop is fun and light hearted that's for sure! I think I'm going to be very, very comfortable there.
She and her staff have been busy working on new samples.
I am so impressed with this table runner (pictured above, I can't figure out how to insert the pic here...but I will) It comes from the book "Skinny Quilts & Table Runners 11 , Fabulous Cut Flowers (Sue Benner) Liz Frazer did the piecing, and told me that this runner was easy and enjoyable to make but I find that so hard to believe, because the result of the raw edged Applique looks complicated. The combination of Batiks is stunning!
I'm getting to the end of this first....blog and have a pile of ideas for future posts swirling around in my head (oh no).
As a Machine Quilter I have had the opportunity to work with the creators of so many quilts. Every now and again a special heart felt piece comes into my hands and through trust and faith, I am given the honour to use my talent and creativity to complete their story. (oh what a great job I have) Tomorrow I will blog about just that. ......a mother and 2 daughters ... creating the perfect Wedding quilt for Granddaughter, daughter, niece.....
See you soon.