by Sandra | September 14th, 2012
Once again I am neck high in preparation for teaching. This time for FIVE classes! I do not know what I was thinking when I scheduled three back to back workshops for this year.
You all know about the story of my missing little quilt sample. I needed it for one of the classes I am teaching in Des Moines. Soooooo, I have to make a new one in an inhuman amount of time. I may not have a quilted sample, but I will have a teaching sample. Phew.
The mess left behind in such a flurry of activity is mind boggling if I dare to think about cleaning up on my return.
One of the classes I am teaching at Des Moines is the “Falling Leaves” three hour workshop. One thing that is really difficult to do in three hours is to create a project worth learning on for the student in that short amount of time. There has to be some fun or it is too regimented and boring right?
We are going to learn how to make those lacy caterpillar eaten areas on Fall leaves. I will also demonstrate how to accomplish lacy dragonfly wings as a surprise. Oops, not a surprise anymore.
I really really want to create a project that is a fun do-able take away project for the class. Hopefully the student will want to complete this when they get home. I mean can anyone finish anything with hand applique and embroidery in three hours? No.
I love Needle-books, so on top of everything else (I am certifiable), I created a pattern for a cool needlebook project as a learning tool (see picture at top).
I LOVE IT! Not only did I take inspiration from Jason’s Pumpkin quilt, but I also took inspiration from a Rugosa Rose and its full bellied rosehips in my garden. Fuller and rounder than I did for Jason’s quilt.
I had so much fun making the Rose Pillow (a real hit with students), that it inspired me to think about creating more small projects that can be done in a short amount of time but are still nicely done. Not “crafty” in other words.
Before anyone gets their knickers in a bunch thinking I am ‘dissing’ crafting, crafty is OK if that is your thing and you enjoy it. I am going for a different aesthetic is all.
I am pumped to create four versions of this Needle-book for…you guessed it, the four seasons. An ode to Vivaldi. Of course this is AFTER I get my work done for Des Moines, teaching and that ever growing pile of other responsibilities and projects.
I can’t wait too see the needle book! I want some of whatever you are taking for energy to do so many projects! : )
Oh Sandra,
When will you learn NOT to commit to workshops that give you so little time. Love the lacy leaves. By the way, the English expression
is “don’t get your knickers in a twist”, first started in a very funny TV show.
Oh, I so hope you sell a kit for “Falling Leaves” – it’s gorgeous!
Book??? A new book??
See there?? It could be worse. I am just glad for all you do.
Love all the leaves and you are faster than I am at making all your patterns, so do not rush on my behalf.
Use my 5 minutes to rest.
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Tammy, you are oh so generous as always. LOL
Brenda, I am trying! I think this experience has taught me bunches.
As for the Knickers….I just couldn’t write the full American version so I cobbled the English and American together.
Pam, My brain rules me. I wish I could turn it off!
Those leaves are beautiful, and just like the ones in my garden. If you can’t beat them, stitch them. Can’t wait for you to finish those needle books. No rush. You are my inspiration!
Sandra, Just thinking about all you have done and plan to do makes my brain hurt. I feel you are following your “bliss”. This is something I have always wanted to do, but have been too fearful to try. Best wishes on this project and all the others you dream up. Your classes are top shelf.
I love the needlebook, you always come out with ways to inspire as you create, I look at leaves in a new way now. Now all I need is your energy