Quilting an Crafting.com

Visit to the Past
Quilting from present to past

Last weekend my wife and I went to the Shelburne Museum, in Shelburne Vt. it was museum day - sponsored by the Smithsonian. We figured if they are going to give us free admission - why not!
The Shelburn is a variety of life style snapshots back thru this countries history. One of the exhibits was on Quilting past and as present Art. The older quilts on display - one made with 1″ squares - over 12,000 different squares, were really something to see. Although they were made for the most part as practical everyday quilts the way in which they were crafted by hand - they are works of art.
Then there were the present day Art Quilts - a couple of them were very nice, the rest were quilting craft gone wrong. One in particular had started out very nice then the “artist” just went nuts with freehand stitching, there was no rime nor reason, in fact it detracted from the original work.
I can’t say that the Quilting Art exhibit was the highlight of the days visit, but getting the chance to see some of the 100 year old handcrafted quilts was very interesting - the older quilts where very much “works of art”.

Bamboo fiber comes from 3-4 year old Bamboo from Yunnan and Sicuan Provinces in China. It’s 100% natural cellulose fiber will biodegrade  in soil or sunshine. Because of natural occurring “Bamboo Kun”, an anti-bacteria substance, even after many washing it still has a very high resistance to bacteria growth. Bamboo, because of its micro gaps/holes, allows apparel to better absorb moisture and also gives very good ventilation. With it’s good moisture vapor transmission property it takes dyes well, lending itself to sweaters, bathing suits, mats, blankets, and towels. Add its anti-bacterial properties it makes good sanitary products such as bandages, masks, medical wears. Being ultraviolet-proof means it will show up in home decorating fabrics soon also.
With all it’s plus factors it is not surprising that bamboo fiber batting,(available at some stores) has made its way into the quilting market.
What is next? Panda brand breakfast cereal? High in fiber soaks up lots of milk and stays crisp, and it will have a long shelf life - coming to your cereal  shelves soon!

Buying a new Quilt/Sewing Machine? Questions to ask yourself -before shopping!

1. Where will i put it?
A permanent place, or table that you will be lifting it on an off of often?

2. What kind of quilting/sewing do i do now?

3. What kind of quilting/sewing do i want to try?
A basic straight stitch with reverse and zigzag. That will allow home decorating , clothing, quilt piecing, and paper crafting. Built in decorative stitches and or embroidery modules cost more, and will you use them?

4. How computerized a machine do I need?
Remember the more complicated the machine the more it costs and the more expensive it is to have repaired! What kind of a relationship do you have with your computer/printer? My printer and I barely speak!

5. What accessories are included or available for purchase if needed?
Free motion feet, 1/4″ feet, stitch regulators, etc.

6. Long arm machine?
Where will you set it up and how much use will it get there?

7. How much can I afford?
Brainstorm, think of any more questions? Answer all of the questions truthfully then go an buy your machine, not someone elses idea of your machine. Remember too that some sewers have more than one machine!

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