"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" FREE PATTERN SERIES

September 28, 2019 Carol Detloff

Today we have the 6th free Big Block pattern to download from the “I Can Totally Make That” pattern series.

Today it’s the Star Burst block from Me & My Sister Designs

CLICK HERE to visit their blog and the post about this block.

FREE PATTERN

#sawitloveditmadeit

We made our Star Burst block with fabrics from the GUEST ROOM collection

Ouch those long bias edges on the star points can get away from you. Best to starch fabrics well before cutting your shapes, then handle them carefully( don’t stretch or pull) while piecing

I worked on that fullness in my large corner triangles by taking up the seams a bit then starching the dickens out of my block. I found that my block came out somewhat over sized -(Perhaps the pattern designer intended that so it could be squared up… — I worked on that fullness in my large corner triangles by taking up the seams a bit then starching the dickens out of my block. I found that my block came out somewhat over sized -(Perhaps the pattern designer intended that so it could be squared up with a trim). When I trimmed it to 18 1/2” it lay nice and flat. I used a piece of thick wool batting and adding some quilting can help use up the fullness that can happen with an 8 pointed star. Next time I make this block I will starch first then cut.

More about the Big Block Free Pattern Series:
There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. You can use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

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"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" FREE PATTERN SERIES

September 27, 2019 Carol Detloff

On today’s blogpost you’ll find another free Big Block pattern to download from the “I Can Totally Make That” pattern series.

Today it’s the Harvest Road block from Lella Boutique

CLICK HERE to visit Vanessa’s blog and her post about this block.

FREE PATTERN

#sawitloveditmadeit

We saw it, loved it, made it. Here’s RCQ’s Harvest Road block. Scroll on to read about a sewing helper that will shorten the time you spend making half square triangles.

We used Lella Boutique’s LITTLE TREE prints. Like so many of the blocks we make this clever design uses Half Square Triangles….

You don’t ever have to draw lines on your fabric squares to make half square triangles when you use the Clearly Perfect Angles cling on the bed of your sewing machine.

Here I’m sewing 1/4” away from the diagonal , and don’t need a drawn line to follow- I just use the green angled lines as a guide .

Learn more about clearly perfect angles here

The Clearly Perfect Angles cling works equally as well to guide your stitching on straight 1/4” seams

More about the Big Block Free Pattern Series:
There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. You can use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" FREE PATTERN SERIES

September 26, 2019 Carol Detloff

Today you find another free pattern to download for one of the Big Blocks in the “I Can Totally Make That” pattern series.

Today it’s Harper’s Garden block from Sherri & Chelsi

CLICK HERE to visit Sherri’s blog and her post about this block.

FREE PATTERN

#sawitloveditmadeit

We saw it, loved it, made it. Here’s RCQ’s 1930’s Harper’s Garden block.

Scroll on for a tip to create bonus half square triangles while you are sewing a Harper’s Garden Block

We used 30’s Playtime fabrics from Chloe’s Closet prints and a Bella Solid for our background to build our Harper’s Garden Block

It’s quick and easy to cut the large shapes used in an 18” block

We used the regular ‘draw a line on the diagonal’ to make our Half Square Triangles ( see the pattern download for more details if you haven’t done it this way before)

HOWEVER For the flying geese units we added a SECOND row of stitching 1/4” away from the seam that we stitched ON the drawn line. Then when you cut away the corner triangle of the flying goose unit , you will have created a BONUS half square triangl… — HOWEVER For the flying geese units we added a SECOND row of stitching 1/4” away from the seam that we stitched ON the drawn line. Then when you cut away the corner triangle of the flying goose unit , you will have created a BONUS half square triangle.

Here you can see second row of stitching after I cut the corner triangle away from the Goose unit. (You cut between the 2 seams you just made)Since the corner triangles on these BIG BLOCK flying geese units are so large, I don’t like to throw them a… — Here you can see second row of stitching after I cut the corner triangle away from the Goose unit. (You cut between the 2 seams you just made)
Since the corner triangles on these BIG BLOCK flying geese units are so large, I don’t like to throw them away ( with smaller ones I do)

Flip the flying goose unit and the bonus Half Square Triangle (HST) blocks open and either lightly finger press or use your iron to lightly press. Here you can see the 2 HST you will get from each flying goose unit that you make.

You will get EIGHT BONUS HSTs from every 18” Harper’s Garden block you make , if you add that second row of stitching to the flying geese units before cutting off the corner triangles. You can use these to make extra blocks or even a bonus quilt if … — You will get EIGHT BONUS HSTs from every 18” Harper’s Garden block you make , if you add that second row of stitching to the flying geese units before cutting off the corner triangles. You can use these to make extra blocks or even a bonus quilt if you are making multiple Harper’s Garden block.

You could make a number of different blocks by rearranging the BONUS HST . Here a couple of options : Pinwheels or Square in a Square blocks

I added some 2 1/2” strips to my pinwheel blocks and have a mini quilt ( or the beginnings of a larger project when I make more Harper’s Garden Blocks).

More about the Big Block Free Pattern Series:
There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. You can use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" FREE PATTERN SERIES

September 25, 2019 Carol Detloff

Welcome back to Rocking Chair Quilts blog 😊

Today we're sharing another one of the Big Blocks in the “I Can Totally Make That” pattern series.

Today it’s Lynn Hagemeier of Kansas Troubles Balancing Act block

CLICK HERE to visit Lynne’s blog where she posted about this classic block on Sept 24.

CLICK on the block to download Lynne’s free pattern.Lynne’s block features her Milestones charm pack for a simple half square triangle block. If you start with a charm pack and 5” background squares You'll actually end up with enough half square tri… — CLICK on the block to download Lynne’s free pattern.
Lynne’s block features her Milestones charm pack for a simple half square triangle block. If you start with a charm pack and 5” background squares You'll actually end up with enough half square triangles to make two blocks from a charm pack

Photos courtesy of Kansas Troubles/ Moda Fabrics and SuppliesDesigner Lynne Hagemeier made her 18” block into a pillow. — Photos courtesy of Kansas Troubles/ Moda Fabrics and Supplies
Designer Lynne Hagemeier made her 18” block into a pillow.

#sawitloveditmadeit

We saw it, loved it, made it. Here’s RCQ’s Autumn flavored Balancing Act block.

We used fabric from Deb Strain’s THANKFUL collection

and Grunge Basics Elafin for our background.

We didn’t start with a charm pack instead we cut our own squares from fabric.

If you don’t have a charm pack in mind for this block,

you can make your 3” (finished size) half square triangles (HST) from your stash and scraps.

Use your favorite HST triangle method

Scroll on to see how you can make HST 4 at a time.

HALF SQUARE TRIANGLES 4 AT A TIME

(3” finished size)

With this method, we to like to make the squares we start with sized so that the resulting

Half Square triangles are a bit larger than you need them to be

Then they can be squared up so rows go together smoothly.

To make 3” (finished size) HST place two 5 3/4” squares of fabric Right Sides Together (RST).One darker square and one background square.Then straight stitch all the way around the edge of the squares using 1/4in seam. — To make 3” (finished size) HST place two **5 3/4”** squares of fabric Right Sides Together (RST).
One darker square and one background square.
Then straight stitch all the way around the edge of the squares using 1/4in seam.

You can mark a diagonal line across both directions on the wrong side of the top fabric square.Then Using your rotary blade, cut the square in quarters following the drawn diagonal lines.I don’t draw the lines . I just place a ruler on the diagonal … — You can mark a diagonal line across both directions on the wrong side of the top fabric square.Then Using your rotary blade, cut the square in quarters following the drawn diagonal lines.
I don’t draw the lines . I just place a ruler on the diagonal (corner to corner) and cut the squares apart that way.

Flip the blocks open and either lightly finger press or use your iron to lightly press. Be careful not to over press as these triangles are cut on the bias and will stretch. Starch or Best Press on the fabric helps quite a bit.Place a ruler on the b… — Flip the blocks open and either lightly finger press or use your iron to lightly press. Be careful not to over press as these triangles are cut on the bias and will stretch. Starch or Best Press on the fabric helps quite a bit.
Place a ruler on the block keeping the 45-degree diagonal line over the diagonal seam. Trim each side of your squares to 3 1/2”

Make 36 HST. Arrange in rows and stitch together using 1/4” seam allowance.Block should measure 18 1/2”. (18” finished size) — Make 36 HST. Arrange in rows and stitch together using 1/4” seam allowance.
Block should measure 18 1/2”. (18” finished size)

More about the Big Block Free Pattern Series:
There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. You can use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" FREE PATTERN SERIES

September 24, 2019 Carol Detloff

Welcome back to Rocking Chair Quilts blog 😊

Today we're sharing another one of the Big Blocks in the “I Can Totally Make That” pattern series.

Here are the details:
There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers .Free patterns! What’s not to love? #modalove.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. You can use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

Today it’s Brigitte Heitland of Zen Chic’s BREEZE block

CLICK HERE to visit Brigitte’s ’s blog when she posts her news about this classic block on Oct. 4th.

Photos courtesy of Zen Chic/ Moda Fabrics and SuppliesDesigner Brigitte Heitland’s signature modern style shines in even the simplest triangle block. Plugging in modern prints and low volume blenders changes the look of traditional piecing in a most… — Photos courtesy of Zen Chic/ Moda Fabrics and Supplies
Designer Brigitte Heitland’s signature modern style shines in even the simplest triangle block. Plugging in modern prints and low volume blenders changes the look of traditional piecing in a most pleasing way. Pictured is her pillow done in half square triangles with prints from her Spotted and More Paper Modern Backgrounds fabric collections.

CLICK on the block to download Brigitte’s free pattern.

#sawitloveditmadeit

We saw it, loved it, made it. Here’s RCQ’s Breeze block. We used 2 Rosa mini charms, from Crystal Manning’s bright new collection and selected Grunge Pool for our border and background.

Zen Chic’s JUST RED fabric collection is coming to RCQ in January 2020. So cool! This should arrive just when I’m feeling the need to stitch up a valentine table topper. Brigitte may not have designed it to be a ‘Valentine’ collection, but the timin… — Zen Chic’s JUST RED fabric collection is coming to RCQ in January 2020. So cool! This should arrive just when I’m feeling the need to stitch up a valentine table topper. Brigitte may not have designed it to be a ‘Valentine’ collection, but the timing is perfect & won’t it be great?
Photo credit Zen Chic

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

This big block goes together quickly using the pre-cut mini charm squares. We like to use Best Press or starch when pressing flying geese units.

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

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"I CAN TOTALLY MAKE THAT!" PATTERN SERIES

September 23, 2019 Carol Detloff

Today we're enjoying the launch of the “I Can Totally Make That” FREE pattern series.

Here at Rocking Chair Quilts we LOVE beautiful fabric.

We LOVE a good pattern – especially A BIG BLOCK PATTERN

We’d LOVE for you to join us stitching up your favorites in this series.

First up is ‘Where WE Love is Home’A big block designed by Corey Yoder — First up is ‘Where WE Love is Home’
A big block designed by Corey Yoder

Photos courtesy of Corey Yoder and Moda Fabrics and Supplies.Designer Corey Yoder’s childhood home near SugarCreek Ohio is the inspiration for many of her designs: “Where the gardens are big, the farms are bigger and the hearts are biggest of all” — Photos courtesy of Corey Yoder and Moda Fabrics and Supplies.
Designer Corey Yoder’s childhood home near SugarCreek Ohio is the inspiration for many of her designs: “Where the gardens are big, the farms are bigger and the hearts are biggest of all”

Visit Corey’s blog HERE

CLICK on the block to download Corey’s free pattern. Pattern note: the pattern uses one mini charm for the pieced border.

#sawitloveditmadeit

Here’s our version of Corey’s ‘Where we love is Home’ block we made at the shop.

We saw it, loved it, made it. We just couldn’t resist.

We used a Hickory Road by Jo Morton mini charm, and selected Kathy Schmitz Rice Paper prints from her Home fabric collection for our buggy and background

This big block goes together quickly using the pre-cut mini charm squares. A few sew and flip corners & a dozen seams later and your buggy and background are complete. Finish off with an applique triangle on your buggy. So cute!

Photo credit Corey Yoder @corianderquilts

There are 15 ‘I Can Totally Make That’ patterns. All are free patterns courtesy of Moda Fabric and their designers .Free patterns! What’s not to love? #modalove.
All are BIG 18” blocks that could stand alone as a mini quilt , make multiples for a larger throw or bed quilt. Maybe…make all 15 blocks as a sampler quilt? So many ways to go- isn’t that what we love about quilts and quilting?
Please respect the designer’s individual guidelines and use these patterns only for your own personal enjoyment. Read more about this at MODA FABRICS
The designers will be sharing their blocks via social media and their blogs, along with their ideas for finishing in the coming weeks . Here on our blog is one of many places you’ll be able to download this free series. Please use the links provided to visit the featured designer’s blog. All the designer’s should be sharing starting 9-23-2019 and over the next 2 weeks.

If you'd like to check out what the Moda designer’s will post about their blocks, here is the full schedule:

9.23.19: Lella Boutique and Sherri & Chelsi

9.24.19: Kansas Troubles

9.25.19: Crystal Manning and Me & My Sister

9.26.19: Jan Patek

9.27.19: Robin Pickens and Corey Yoder

9.30.19: BasicGrey

10.1.19: Betsy Chutchian and Lisa Bongean

10.2.19: American Jane

10.3.19: Kathy Schmitz

10.4.19: Zen Chic and Deb Strain

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

#PROJECTJELLYROLL PATTERN REVEAL

September 21, 2019 Carol Detloff

2019 JELLY ROLL PATTERNS NOW AVAILABLE FOR FREE DOWNLOAD

National Jelly Roll Day has arrived. Part of the day’s celebration are free Jelly Roll patterns from Moda fabrics, While we’d love to have you visit the little shop on Meadow Street, we know everyone reading this is not close enough to travel here for our National Jelly Roll Day doings. If you can stop in, printed copies will be available here at RCQ for all our guests.

Now that NSAJRD is here, with Moda Fabrics United Notions' permission, we can release the much anticipated #projectjellyroll patterns here on our blog today (scroll down for your free downloads).

A BIG thank you to Brigette Heiland of Zen Chic , the Ruby Star Society and Moda for providing these NSAJRD patterns.

To start you off - here is a little gift from RockingChairQuilts.com : A Jelly Roll Tip Card and pre-cut yardage chart for you to copy, print out or keep as a handy reference on your smart phone or tablet. If you are nearby and can come into the shop we will give you a tip card when you buy a Jelly Roll (while supplies last) If you visit the shop for Jelly Roll Day be sure to ask about the in store specials on Jelly Rolls and Jelly related patterns , books etc.

HERE ARE 10 IDEAS FOR JELLY ROLL STRIPS AND SCRAPS:

Make strip sets for 9-patch blocks
Make strip sets for 4-patch blocks
Cut strips 4 1/2" long. Use with 2 1/2" squares (Moda Candy squares work great) to create scrappy Flying Geese blocks.
Sew strips together for a scrappy back.
Make "framed" 9-patch blocks (1 Jelly Roll strip is enough to frame a 6" finished 9-patch.
Make a "coins" quilt using left over Jelly Roll pieces.
Make Log Cabin blocks.
Make piano key borders for a scrappy quilt.
Make kitchen accessories: pot holders, place mats, mug rugs, or coasters.
Make scrappy binding by cutting Jelly Roll strips into fourths and then sewing together as many pieces as needed for the length desired.
___________________________ Fill in # 11 with your own amazing JELLY ROLL TIP . Please enter your tip by commenting below:

HERE ARE YOUR FREE PATTERNS

( courtesy of zen chic, ruby star society and Moda fabrics )

HOO-RAY!

5 new and re-mixed designs for 2019
The 6 iconic patterns from 2018 (in case you missed ‘em)

Post pictures of any Jelly Roll projects you are working on (or even the ones that you finish ) on Facebook , Instagram, Twitter. Use the #projectjellyroll to share your fun with everyone who enjoys a Moda Jelly Roll.

Love a Jelly Roll? If you are hungry for more Jelly Roll goodness be sure and visit ModaBakeShop.com

Lots of jelly roll patterns there, all free for you to enjoy.

We shared some yummy Jelly Roll themed snacks here at the quilt shop on previous Jelly Roll Days. Something so yummy bears repeating. Here they are for you to make and enjoy.

Thanks so much for your participation in the the big JR day, and thank you for reading my blog . Share comments below. Until we blog again, please take some time out to Enjoy the Sew!®

-Carol

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#MODALOVEQUILT and the Moda LOVE Sew-Along

January 8, 2019 Carol Detloff

We LOVE a good sew-along. And we LOVE a good pattern – especially one that is versatile enough to work with Layer Cakes, Charm Packs or Mini Charms. More importantly, we’d LOVE for you to join us! -Carrie Nelson @ModaFabrics

Photo courtesy of Moda Fabrics and Supplies

#sawitloveditmadeit

What is the Moda Love Sew Along? A social media sew-along using the Moda Love Pattern.

When is it? January 24 is Moda’s official starting date for the sewing and sew-along. There will be introductory posts on Instagram, Facebook and Moda’s Cutting Table Blog on January 17th.

Where can you join in the sew along? . At your local participating shop (come see us at Rocking Chair Quilts if you can get here). Don’t have a #modaloveshop near you? Join in online: search the hashtag #modalovequilt. on your social media. And on Moda’s social media.

Why a Sew Along? Because sew-alongs are one of the best ways to make sewing-creating fun. Whether you like to create solo or with others.

Sew-alongs also provide terrific opportunities for a visit to your local quilt shop for a bit of in-shop-sewcializing

or….

make your own sew along by meeting up with like minded quilters to create quilts and build the bonds of friendship.

Why the Moda Love Quilt Sew Along? Because you can start with precuts, the Moda love quilt is fun and you will be done pretty quickly . Easy to sew together too - this pattern can be a great teaching quilt for those starting their journey through the quilting nation.

Have a peek at the pattern:

Moda Love Pattern Download.

We would LOVE to see what you will stitch together with the Love Quilt pattern! Whereever you share your love quilt projects, be sure and use the hashtag – #modalovequilt.

To get your inspiration rolling here’s a gallery of grabs from the #modalovequilt hashtag.

Quilts by #modamakers from around the world.

What’s NEXT?

January 26, 2019–

Local Quilt Shop Day is a worldwide event designed to raise awareness of the importance of independent quilt shops to the local economy. It is a day for consumers and retailers to celebrate the creative pursuits of quilters, sewists, fabric enthusiasts, and crafters everywhere and to support the local quilt shops that make it all possible.

This event, held annually on the fourth Saturday in January, will be held in 2019 on Saturday, January 26.

Thanks for reading! Until we blog again, be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!® - Carol and staff @RCQ

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

Swell Sunday Sewing

June 10, 2018 Carol Detloff

Swell Christmas fabric collection by Urban Chiks for #modafabrics features cotton & PVC coated prints! Today I'm sharing the projects I made and a few tips for sewing with these coated fabrics.

Sunday afternoons I like to visit my sewing machine and enjoy some fabrics. This week I wanted to try and sew a few things with Swell Christmas by Urban Chiks for Moda Fabrics. Most especially, the 3 PVC coated Swell Christmas prints .

These coated prints are perfect for snack bags, place mats, aprons, bibs , table cloths, zippered pouches, notebook covers and more. There are so many ideas and patterns on line, it didn't take long to find free patterns for these 2 quick to make projects

Thanks to Petit Bout de Chou for the 10 minute Zipper Pouch & Tara at TInkerfrog for her Ba Dunk Ba Dunk scrap and trash bag

The scrap bag has self ties that you can use to hang it around the headrest in your car, but it also looks cute with the top folded down so that the coated inside fabric peeks out. I can put one in my car , but I think I will use these for scrap catchers at my sewing table

The zipper pouch really only took 10 minutes to make once I had printed Petit Chou's free pattern and cut out the simple shapes needed for the pouch

I have sewn with the iron on vinyl before, but not with a fabric that was already coated. These 3 PVC coated prints that are part of the Swell Christmas collection were fun and easy to work with.

Sewing with coated fabrics requires a few precautions: avoid pins, the holes they leave won't go away. Instead use wonder clips or binding clips to hold pieces together while stitching.

Be careful if you decide you want to iron your work, test a scrap of your coated fabric on a cooler temperature setting, or risk melting it. For these small projects that I decided to make, I was able to hold things in place with my fingers, so I didn't pin or use clips. Although I didn't use my iron. I did press my seams flat with a wooden press as I worked.

You may have a teflon presser foot that is designed for sewing vinyl and plastic. I found these PVC coated prints from Moda to be SO soft, easy to handle and almost silky to the touch, so I just left my all purpose foot. and had no issues. I only switched to my zipper foot when I wanted to stitch closely to the zipper on the zippered pouch. If you find that the PVC coated fabrics are grabbing or sticking instead of feeding nicely through your machine, by all means use the special presser foot that you may have.

That sweet retro Santa towel is part of a set of Swell Christmas Towels from Moda.  I think we should put one set in the kitchen and maybe I will use a second set to make a pillow.  what would you make with these holiday towels? — That sweet retro Santa towel is part of a set of Swell Christmas Towels from Moda. I think we should put one set in the kitchen and maybe I will use a second set to make a pillow. what would you make with these holiday towels?

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CLICK HERE for Anabelle Short’s list of projects you can make with plastic coated fabrics. Anabelle's list is where I found these 2 projects and so much more. Please share what you made with the Swell Christmas collection #swellchristamsfabrics on Instagram , or post photos on my FACEBOOK page and I will share it forward.

thanks for reading ☺ until we blog again be sure and take some time to Enjoy the Sew!®

-Carol Detloff

Breezy Bear Quilt

May 22, 2018 Carol Detloff

It's time to share the first Bear Paw block project we have put together for the summer shop hop season.

#PROJECTJELLYROLL PATTERNS

September 16, 2017 Carol Detloff

NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD

We woke up this morning with the happy realization that the first annual National Jelly Roll Day had finally arrived. A banner day was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone here at RCQ and all our guests.

Now that the daylight has vanished from the Illinois prairie we can, with Moda Fabrics United Notions' permission, release the much anticipated #projectjellyroll patterns here for you as free downloads

A BIG thank you to Brigette Heiland of Zen Chic and Moda for providing these NSAJRD patterns.

To start you off - here is a little gift from RockingChairQuilts.com : A Jelly Roll Tip Card and pre-cut yardage chart for you to download and keep as a handy reference. If you are nearby and can come into the shop we will give you one when you buy a Jelly Roll (while supplies last)

jelly roll GIVEAWAY • congratulations to our 20 winners

Maxine Euto

Debbie Chenoweth

Sandra Dzurny

Jennifer Kralik

Tessa Hutchinson

Justine Wills

Lisa Soderland Fitzgerald

Allison Church Bird

Lynette Kleinau

Janie McCombs

Kay Opilka

Paula Fortino

Rene' Gorbold

Cheryl Paarlberg

Kathy Chynoweth

Connie Overlay

Sandie Swartz

James Adams

Kathryn Frederick

Penny Stromberg

HERE ARE 10 IDEAS FOR JELLY ROLL STRIPS AND SCRAPS:

Make strip sets for 9-patch blocks
Make strip sets for 4-patch blocks
Cut strips 4 1/2" long. Use with 2 1/2" squares (Moda Candy squares work great) to create scrappy Flying Geese blocks.
Sew strips together for a scrappy back.
Make "framed" 9-patch blocks (1 Jelly Roll strip is enough to frame a 6" finished 9-patch.
Make a "coins" quilt using left over Jelly Roll pieces.
Make Log Cabin blocks.
Make piano key borders for a scrappy quilt.
Make kitchen accessories: pot holders, place mats, mug rugs, or coasters.
Make scrappy binding by cutting Jelly Roll strips into fourths and then sewing together as many pieces as needed for the length desired.
___________________________ Fill in # 11 with your own amazing JELLY ROLL TIP . Please enter your tip by commenting below:

HERE ARE YOUR FREE PATTERNS courtesy of zen chic and moda fabrics - HOO-RAY!

Love a Jelly Roll? If you are hungry for more Jelly Roll goodness be sure and visit ModaBakeShop.com

Lots of jelly roll patterns there, all free for you to enjoy.

We enjoyed some yummy Jelly Roll themed snacks here at the quilt shop today. If you got too busy to stop by ( or just live somewhere else in the world ) we thought it would be nice to share the recipes here.

Thank you Kathy for bringning us cookies!

Get Recipe

#projectjellyroll 2017 SNAPSHOT GALLERY

Thanks so much for your participation in the the big JR day, and thank you for reading my blog . Until we blog again, please take some time out to Enjoy the Sew!®

-Carol

If you would like to receive an email when a new blog post is published you can sign up below:

National Sew a Jelly Roll Day• SAVE THE DATE • September 16, 2017

August 14, 2017 Carol Detloff

Save the date: SEPTEMBER 16. 2017

F³

#projectjellyroll
Plan to visit Rocking Chair Qullts, in store & online to be a part of National Sew a Jelly Roll Day and to experience F³
Wait, what?
What is F³ ?
Wait a minute - that looks like math.
F³= fabric + fun + food

(OK, that still looks like math , but I think I like this kind of math) ☺ read on.........

Moda Fabrics / United Notions has designated the 3rd Saturday in September of every year as National Sew A Jelly Roll Day to encourage collectors to tear open a Moda Jelly Roll and make something for themselves, as a gift or for charity!  It ca… — Moda Fabrics / United Notions has designated the 3rd Saturday in September of every year as National Sew A Jelly Roll Day to encourage collectors to tear open a Moda Jelly Roll and make something for themselves, as a gift or for charity! It can be a quilt or a tote bag, a pillowcase or something to wear, it doesn’t matter so long as we seize the day and celebrate the joy of being a maker. Share your day on social media with **#projectjellyroll**. You might even win a prize!

HERE'S WHAT'S HAPPENING AT ROCKINGCHAIRQUILTS.COM TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SEW A JELLY ROLL DAY:

September 16th, come and party with us @ the Rocking Chair Quilts storefront in Grant Park, Illinois.

Door Prizes
Free Jelly Roll Patterns - courtesy of Moda Fabrics
$ave on Jelly Rolls
Snacks

If you are not nearby we'll offer the same enjoyment for our online friends:

Jelly Roll Giveaways (your online version of door prizes ☺)
Free downloadable Jelly Roll patterns- courtesy of Moda Fabrics
$ave on Jelly Rolls in our online store
Snacks. So....maybe we can't send a snack through the interwebs, but we will share our jelly roll day recipes with you .
Plan your own event! If you can't visit a local shop that has an event, make plans, shake it down , roll it up, play and sew with friends.
- -start planning with Moda's free checklist (download it below)

FABRIC+ FUN + FOOD = HOO-RAY!

At this writing, National Jelly Roll Day is still about a month away - but thanks to the folks at Moda, you can start planning for your Jelly Roll Day with this handy checklist:

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD YOUR EVENT PLANNING CHECKLIST

Stay Tuned: We will be hosting these events and have Jelly Roll "Specials" in store and online. To find out when things get started in September:

Like us on Facebook, subscribe to this blog below or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on when these fun activities begin.

Moda has a website dedicated to #projectjellyroll. CLICK HERE to visit. It is SO pretty!

Thanks for reading - I hope you make some plans to join us , or plan your own jolly jelly event .

*Share photos of all your jelly doings with #projectjellyroll ON SOCIAL MEDIA

(and you may even win a prize - PROVIDED by Moda Fabrics United Notions)

Not on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter? You can email your pictures to me and I will share them for you. EMAIL me here: Carol@RockingChairQuilts.com

Until we blog again, Enjoy the Sew!®

-Carol

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Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

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Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

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Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

#sawitloveditmadeit

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

HERE ARE 10 IDEAS FOR JELLY ROLL STRIPS AND SCRAPS:

HERE ARE YOUR FREE PATTERNS

( courtesy of zen chic, ruby star society and Moda fabrics )

HOO-RAY!

5 new and re-mixed designs for 2019

The 6 iconic patterns from 2018 (in case you missed ‘em)

#sawitloveditmadeit

Enter your name and email below if you'd like to get an email alert when a new blog post is published:

jelly roll GIVEAWAY • congratulations to our 20 winners

HERE ARE 10 IDEAS FOR JELLY ROLL STRIPS AND SCRAPS:

HERE ARE YOUR FREE PATTERNS courtesy of zen chic and moda fabrics - HOO-RAY!

#projectjellyroll 2017 SNAPSHOT GALLERY

Save the date: SEPTEMBER 16. 2017

HERE'S WHAT'S HAPPENING AT ROCKINGCHAIRQUILTS.COM TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SEW A JELLY ROLL DAY:

*Share photos of all your jelly doings with #projectjellyroll ON SOCIAL MEDIA

OUR FABRIC IS PRICED BY THE 1/2 YARD.

READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE.