Bill Locke Designs

"QUILTING" and "SEWING" classes at my Studio............

2011-10-25T06:51:00.004-04:00

I am so pleased...it's been 3 months since I have arrived in Springdale, NL and things are falling into place in my Studio so that classes can begin....the first ones have been confirmed...here are the details:

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“NATURE’S CHORUS” Applique Pillow
Workshop
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A really fun project - suitable for anyone with just a little sewing knowledge…..
- able to use a sewing machine, sew a straight line, comfortable with a needle and thread
With that and a desire to attend a fun-filled workshop with other sewers and quilters; you can share ideas; have a fun time and in the end, head home with a beautiful appliquéd decorative pillow.

3 classes available to choose from:
(Studio Class size limited to 6 students)

Schedule: (2 evenings or 1 day)

Wed. Nov. 09th and Wed. Nov. 16th – 18h30 – 21h30
Thurs. Nov. 10rd and Thurs. Nov. 17th - 18h30 – 21h30
Saturday Nov. 12th – 10h30 – 16h30 (bring a lunch)

Class fee: $30.00

Students have the option of bringing there own materials or can purchase a kit.
A kit will consist of a background fabric, all materials to complete the appliqués as well as a pillow insert:
Kit Cost with a Feather/Down-Filled Pillow Insert: $45.00
Kit Cost with a Poly-Filled Pillow Insert: $30.00

Note: Sizes of Feather/Down-Filled Pillow Inserts will be subject to sizes in Stock.
Techniques: Machine Sewing, Reverse Applique/Hand Applique, Yo-Yo’s, embellishments.

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QUILTING 101 – Classes for Beginners

Do you have a sewing machine and want to learn to sew/quilt? Or perhaps you don’t have a sewing machine but would like to learn anyways?

Are you unsure of how to start, which tools to buy, what fabric to select, which colors to use? Intimidated by so-called easy patterns, large classes and all the expense?

Join me and learn to choose fabrics with confidence, cut, piece, press and sew accurately and quilt easily. Create projects to warm your home and make gifts for those special people for whom you wish to give a gift from the heart.

Lots of individual instruction: Studio Class size is limited to 6.

Bring your own machine… and to be able thread it and sew a line;
and I’ll teach you the rest.

Note:
If you do not have a machine, machines are available for class use. If you have a machine but is not able to thread and use it – a short session can be arranged to cover this step.

Project 1
Design and sew a quilt block, then make it into a pillow top

This class focuses on stitching an accurate 1/4 inch seam to piece a traditional style block.

Time required to complete project - approx 6 hours total

Cost (including Class and all materials)- $45.00

CLASS DATES:

Saturday, Nov. 19 – 10h30 – 16h30
Tues. Nov. 15th and Tues. Nov. 22nd – 18h30 – 21h30

WELCOME TO MY NEW QUILTING STUDIO!!!!!!!!!

2011-08-29T15:36:00.005-04:00

Well, here I am - finally getting settled and able to get back to my blog...I apologize for being away for so long.....but I am now here..and hope to get back to doing some regular posting....

I am now in Springdale, Newfoundland......moved from Montreal last month and absolutely love to be closer to family - and especially to be able to visit with my grandma Annie, who is now 94...and doing well....

Well, one of the things that was important for me was to get the quilting/sewing studio set up - I haven't completed it yet but here are a couple of photos.....

I am also working on completing the class and workshop schedule for the Fall/Winter months..and hope to be able to share a copy of the schedule with you soon.

I'll do have a booth at the Trade show here on Sept 8-10....so very much looking forward to that..these next days will be spent getting ready for the show..so much to do....so I need to put in some long hours.....

Today I have been working with the printer getting patterns ordered for the upcoming show....now I think I will be creative for a little while :-)

Hugs to all!

Bill

March's RUNNER-OF-THE-MONTH - "COLOR ME GREEN"

2011-02-28T21:06:00.004-05:00

A Preview photo of March's runner...now in the quilting process.....but wanted to give you a peek beforehand......

"WEINER DOGGIES"......The cutest thing......

2011-01-23T17:21:00.005-05:00

Measuring about 16" long from nose to tail, 10" high, these little weiner doggies are just the cutest...with their button noses and eyes and faux-suede ears and tails, doggies also have a weighted pouch of plastic stuffing beads to give it a bit of extra weight....

You can adopt one of the above or have one made by special request....Price: $35.00 (local delivery) or shipping charges extra.

FEBRUARY'S Runner-of-the-Month - "A TIME FOR LOVE"

2011-01-01T18:33:00.004-05:00

February's runner in the RUNNER-OF-THE-MONTH program is "A TIME FOR LOVE"......a beautiful Paper-pieced design..

Size: 16"x 62"

Using 5 different coordinates of red or old-rose...and a white-on-white background/binding, you will have a wonder runner to display for the month of February......

A BUY-NOW button has been supplised on the right-hand size of my blog for your convenience of ordering the pattern.

Price is still $7.95 for all patterns - free shipping to anywhere in the world.

March's runner is now on the design table - it will debut on Feb. 1, 2011.

Thanks to everyone and I hope you enjoy!!!!

Bill

NEW "RUNNER-OF-THE-MONTH program for 2011.......January's Runner - "SNOWY DAYS" now making it's debut......

2010-11-30T22:13:00.004-05:00

Announcing my my RUNNER-OF-THE-MONTH program.......beginning with January's "SNOWY DAYS"......

Patterns will be available the 1st of the previous month in order to give time to work on these projects in advance.

Runner is 16" x 60", paper-pieced, except for snowman scarves and button embellishments which are added after quilting.

A fun project - beginner friendly - and only the start of a wonderful new RUNNER-OF-THE-MONTH program.....

Patterns now available for $7.95 - postage paid to anywhere in the world.........

February's Runner is now longing for Jan. 1st to make it's debut - keep watching.........

"U & ME, CUPCAKES & TEA" Table Topper Quilt

2010-11-08T18:24:00.012-05:00

"U & ME, CUPCAKES & TEA" has been born....what a fun table topper quilt - or just a fun smaller decorative quilt....it is so much fun.....and now the pattern for this fun project is available.....

The quilt is 66" x 66", a beautiful mix of fun blocks....regular pieces and applique...with instructions so clear it is beginner friendly.......

Be sure to check this one out - a link to purchase directly is on my blog, right hand side...

Cheers everyone!!!!!

2010-10-21T21:06:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I thought I would make a fun decorative pillow - I've had this one in my head for quite a while now and needed to bring it out....it was one of the most fun projects I've done...just simple hand applique on a heavier linen/cotton base....it was a blast.......

A great way to just let your creativity out and use up some of those smaller pieces that you have in your stash.....and of course, where there are yo-yo's, there has to be lot so fun....

Hugs,

Bill

"TEDDY TIME" Pocket Pillow

2010-10-05T20:31:00.003-04:00

Just finished this fun project...a great gift for that little one - their very own

"TEDDY TIME" Pocket Pillow.....

Just tuck in a favourite book, and a little teddy - and off they go - to grandma and grandpa's, on a road trip..to the doctor...they will never be without their own little comfort things......

at 18" x 18" it is a great size......for carrying around - for sleeping..for cuddling.....especially if it's stuff with a down pillow form....

The back is made with overlapping panels - no zip to hurt those little fingers.....and so easy to remove the pillow form for cleaning.

"TEDDY TIME" Pocket Pillow patterns will be ready for mailing on Oct. 12th.....order your copy now by using the BUY-NOW button on the main page of my blog...

and remember - NO POSTAGE!!!!!

Wishing you all a wonderful creative time.... :-)

Bill

NEW "FREE POSTAGE" for pattern purchases....

2010-09-28T20:02:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

In order to make purchasing my patterns easy for everyone, wether dropping in to your LQS or on-line, starting today, you can purchase patterns without having to pay extra for postage...THAT'S RIGHT!!! Patterns are now just $7.95 ppd.....

If you like my patterns, be sure to suggest to your LQS that perhaps they should add them to their selections.....

Thanks a million!!!!

Hugs,

Bill

NEW PATTERN: "CLASSY 10-POCKET TOTE"

2010-09-20T20:00:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone,

I am proud to announce pattern #5 in my collection of patterns...for this great

"CLASSY 10-POCKET TOTE"

The tote measures 17" wide x 15 1/2" wide, and the shoulder straps have a 19" drop.

All regular piecing - great 1-day project..for for quilt shops, this one is a great 1-day class.

Keep watching - there's more great patterns on the horizon!!!!!

Bill

A wonderful free pattern for Pot Holders, Book Cover......on TIPNUT.COM.........

2010-09-14T19:30:00.002-04:00

I got an email today with this wonderful link and I just had to share..it is wonderful!!!!!! I hope that some of you will enjoy the link.... A vintage pattern from the 1960's......check it out - there's lots of great things on the site - recipes, etc....... here's the link:

http://tipnut.com/pieced-pot-holders/

NEW PATTERN: "ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS" Quilt

2010-09-05T10:34:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...

Well, I am very proud to announce that Pattern #4 is born...."ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS"...a fun quilt project, comprised of Paper-pieced trees, embelished with fun buttons, sashing, setting squares and a border.....

Finished size: 42" x 58"

A great project - even for someone with little or now paper-piecing experience - because of the size of the pieces......

This is the perfect size for a throw or Christmas Wallhanging....

I would like to thank everyone who has supposed BILL LOCKE DESIGNS so far - and I look forward to bringing you many more fun projects...

For anyone who wishes to purchase this or another pattern, each Pattern has a BUY-NOW button on the right size of my blog home page.

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

Bill

THE WINNERS of the QUILTING ESSENTIALS prize draw....

2010-09-01T07:29:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,,,,

Well, the time as come to make the draw for the 3 prices in the QUILTING ESSENTIALS prize draw that was announced on August 04th.....

And the winners are......

1. Quilting Needles - "GERRI in Flushing, NY"

2. Seam Ripper - "ELOISE in Concordia, MO"

3. Quilting pins - "SHEILA Bismarck, ND"

Thanks to everyone for purchasing this pattern and I hope that you are all enjoy this and any other patterns that you have purchased......

Your prizes will be out in today's mail!!!

Have a great Quilting day!!!

Hugs,

Bill

2010-08-21T20:33:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I have been away from my blog for a few days but I am back.......

I hope that everyone is doing well...

I have started to read a book that was given to me by my special friend Cheryl from Illinois...

"HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW" - A secret story of quilts and the underground railroad....

by Jacqueline L. Tobin and Raymond G. Dobard, Ph.D

I have just started to get into this book and it is just so interesting....

Hidden in Plain View tells the fascinating story of a friendship, a lost tradition and an incredible discovy, explaning for the first time how enslaved men and women encoded messages within quilt patterns that helped fugitives navigate their escape along the Underground Railroad....

I will let you know how I enjoy this book - but if the first few pages are any indication -

I am going to love this one......

Wishing everyone a great Saturday evening..and a wonderful weekend!

Bill

Pattern #3 - "ALL BOTTLED UP" Placemat......

2010-08-16T18:54:00.003-04:00

Here's my latest pattern - ALL BOTTLED UP...Placemat......

FQ Friendly.

The center panel is Paper Pieced...& the whole project is FQ friendly.

You can make this up with fruit or vegetable themes - perhaps bug jars for kids...candy jars for the holidays...you can have a lot of fun....your imagination is your limit on this one....

If you would like to purchase this pattern, just click the BUY-NOW button on my blog home page.

Best wishes..

Bill

A FREE PATTERN - From MODA

2010-08-15T14:38:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,
I found this pattern and thought that perhaps some of you may enjoy this one as a great scrap quilt pattern...a wonderful way to use up lots of those pieces left over from other projects...check it out....

http://www.unitednotions.com/fp_wee-woodland.pdf

Att: QUILT SHOPS........

2010-08-13T20:33:00.004-04:00

Be sure to ask about the great wholesale program available to your store for all

BILL LOCKE DESIGNS

patterns.....

"QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE" & "MY CHARMING SUNFLOWER GARDEN Table Runner" Patterns

2010-08-11T20:48:00.009-04:00

The QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE pattern is indeed a great pattern and a wonderful evening project.........it can hold your sewing accessories and notions; for quilting class, for travel.........4 pockets....opens to 8" x 11" and folds to a compact 8" x 4".....there are felted wool rosettes for your needles and pins...........absolutely adorable......

KITS are currently out of stock but more Kits will be available soon in assorted colways.

MY CHARMING SUNFLOWER GARDEN Table Runner pattern is a perfect item for display on a dining table, a side table...turn it into a wall hanging....you will have so much fun making this one - it is an absoute blast......

The Table runner measures 15" x 44" finished...the perfect size for a great weekend project....and a fabulous way to use up lots of those smaller pieces that you already have in your stash.... There have been a lot of requests for kits - although not yet available, I do plans to offer kits for this item in the near future.

Either of these patterns can be easily purchased directl from my blog - the buttons in the righthand side bar make that so easy - just click and Buy-Now...it's that easy...all orders ship next day.

Someday, I would love to have a piece of furniture, upholstered in a quilt......

2010-08-10T22:25:00.006-04:00

Using Quilts for Upholstery - very interetesting...

Here's the link so you can see more...

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/boston/inspiration/using-quilts-for-upholstery-085192

2010-08-10T22:20:00.003-04:00

Ok..I love buttons....but this is something that I've never thought about doing......but it does make for a very interesting conversational piece....

Here's the link - and the instructions on how to do this yourself....ifyou dare :-)

It does look like a lot of fun though....

http://slideshow.ivillage.com/home/buttonbacked_chair/sewing_supplies.html

NEW PATTERN: "My Charming Sunflower Garden" Table Runner

2010-08-09T18:06:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,,,

Here is the photo that I promised this evening - my new pattern will be out and ready to ship by Wednesday....

I have had a blast bringing with this project and designing the pattern for my Table Runner.

There are a couple of different techniques in the runner - but is quite simple with the instructions and templates provided....even without any applique experience any quilter should be able to complete this one.....And of course, I love notions..so I just had to include some buttons, a coupe of yo-yo's..I love introducing another medium into my projects.....

Also, I would like to add that for all of my patterns, if at any point after purchase or during the sewing process you have any questions, I am available via email - to personally answer ASAP.

This pattern is now available for purchase for $7.95 + shipping..(Large padded envelope via letter mail):
Canada: $1.22
United States: $2.00
International: $4.00

If anyone would like to order a copy, you can just contact me here simply drop me a line at:billlockedesigns@hotmail.com

For immediate purchases, you can send payments via this email address though Paypal.

If you have any questions, please drop me a line....

Wishing you all a great evening!

Bill

Here's a beautiful blog.....pictures, music..I had a great visit here and wanted to share it with you.......

2010-08-06T21:37:00.002-04:00

http://houseinroses.blogspot.com/

SEWL MATE SISTER is having a free giveaway....

2010-08-06T21:28:00.002-04:00

She has a great blog - go over and check it out - and grab a chance to win a really cool prize.....

http://sewlmatesister.blogspot.com/

Have you always wanted to take quilting classes but just can't get to the classes....check this out.......

2010-08-06T07:49:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I have heard so many people say to me "I WOULD LOVE TO LEARN HOW TO QUILT"...well, now there are places that are catering to people who would like to learn how to quilt - out of the comfort of their own homes....

ACADEMY OF QUILTING is one of those places...

http://www.academyofquilting.com/

I have no experience from this site..but it does look really interesting...

I do however know people who have taken classes at QUILT UNIVERSITY..... www.quiltuniversity.com/ and have really enjoyed the experience.....

I am having trouble opening their site this morning...hope it will be up later....

Just wanted to share these 2 "QUILTING SCHOOLS" with you - perhaps it will help someone dive into this wonderful world of quilting!!!!

Have a wonderful day everyone!

Bill

It's been a busy evening at the sewing maching.....

2010-08-05T21:18:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to let you all know that there are still patterns available for the QUILTLING ESSENTIALS TOTE .....

Meanwhile, it is time to complete the work on Pattern Nbr. 2....my project that is the inspiration for my 2nd patterns is getting wrapped up - and this weekend I hope to be able to put the final touches on my design - go though the directions one more time - and make sure that all is ready to hit the press....

This second pattern is really going to bring on a bit of Fall inspiration a little early - but in a good way...... and I can't wait to share this one with you......keep watching......!!!!!

Good News, the offer of free shipping on my patterns will continue til further notice...so that makes it even better for you to purchase them....no extra costs.

This evening I did spend some time working on some of the blocks for a prototype for another pattern.....this one is an absolute blast...and I am like a child in a candy shop putting this one together - when I release it you will understand why......I did 5 of the blocks this evening and can't wait to see this one put together.......and most of this project can be done with pieces form your scrap basket - which is wonderful..... :-)

Being a part of this huge quilting family and world is amazing - it is exciting to be able to take these little pieces of fabrics and use them to paint wonderful quilts and projects that we and others are going to enjoy......

I am happy to share this world with you...

Thanks for visiting - come back often - there will be lots of new things - from me - from others.....

Let's have fun - and create!!!!

Heh, anyone need a new backpack for school...... School reopenng is closer than you think....

2010-08-05T21:08:00.002-04:00

I came across this wonderful pattern today for a BACKPACK........looks like fun - thought I would pass along the link in case some of you have some students needing a new creation before school starts....

Enjoy....the pattern incluses templates and everything...how wonderful is that!!!

http://www.finecraftguild.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/free_fabric_backpack_pattern.pdf

Have a great evening everyone!

Bill

"QUILTING ESSENTIALS CONTEST"

2010-08-04T18:25:00.005-04:00

As a little thankful for all of the people who have purchased my first QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE pattern, I am going to do a little prize give-away.....for the first month - until August 31, 2010 - Midnight, I will put the name of everyone who purchases a pattern into a hat for a little prize draw.......

And what better prizes than actual QUILTING NOTIONS......for your new totes.

On August 31st at midnight, (or Sept. 1st, early) I will pull 3 names at random...and send out your prizes as follows:

1st name - A package of Quilting needles

2nd name - A seam ripper

3rd name - A set of colorful pins

Just a little bit of fun....the winners of these items will all be listed here in my blog on Sept. 01st.

Thanks again to everyone who has purchased my pattern - and keep watching - Nbr. 2 is very exciting - and No. 3 is just as exciting........I am have a grand olde time bringing patterns of my very own projects to you....Others are on the design table and as promised, I will keep you all posted once things are ready.....

THANKS AGAIN!!!

Hugs,

Bill

JAR QUILT and Free Canning Labels.......

2010-08-04T17:58:00.008-04:00

Happy evening everyone...

I was thinking about my jar quilt - and finishing it off and it reminded me that many of you are perhaps canning and bottling the fruits of your gardens..........

So, I thought I would share my Jar Quilt top with you - and at the same time, here's a great link for some free jar labels, etc...... ENJOY!!!!!!

http://www.sweetpreservation.com/labels-crafts

Wishing you all a wonderful evening!

Bill

NEW BLOG FEATURE!!!!! BUY NOW BUTTON

2010-08-03T17:45:00.004-04:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I have added a new feature to the righthand side of my blog.....

In order to simplify your pattern purchases, I will be adding buttons to make this easier.

You will see that the link for the QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE Pattern has been added.......

Thanks to everyone for your support with my new pattern...I am very pleased with the response...and I will be sure to let you all know as soon as new patterns are released.

Best wishes,,,

Bill

It's a rainy evening in Montreal.....

2010-08-03T17:35:00.002-04:00

which means that it is a great evening to stay inside and work...of course, I have to watch my next eposide of Coronation Street at 6h30....then I can do perhaps work on a project or 2.......

I was browsing the net and found this great idea that was put out by FAT QUARTER SHOP.....the picture above allows you to work with a simple pinwheel block - and then add a piano border..and VOILA.....try it in different color schemes.....a great SCRAP QUILT....to use up all of these pieces left in your scrap basket....

Here's the link to the site where you can download the full instructions for the quilt!

Enjoy!

Bill

http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.fatquartershop.com/Free-Quilt-Patterns/images/PinwheelKtNew-450.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.fatquartershop.com/Free-Quilt-Patterns/Free-Quilt-Pattern-Pinwheel-Polkadot-Quilt.asp&h=451&w=450&sz=108&tbnid=LilHgFmlOZYImM:&tbnh=127&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dfree%2Bquilt%2Bpattern&hl=fr&usg=__hBeG937NMsumP_H4lybDM3iKCxc=&sa=X&ei=uYxYTMvFFpH29QTv4K3sBw&ved=0CDwQ9QEwBg

Free Recipes, Free templates for Recipe cards, shopping list...... www.cookingnook.com

2010-08-02T19:10:00.006-04:00

http://www.cookingnook.com/

The Cooking Nook is a great site to visit for lots of wonderful recipes:

http://www.cookingnook.com/free-online-recipes.html

FREE RECIPE CARDS, SHOPPING LIST (different templates) - Just print them out for free!

http://www.cookingnook.com/free-printable-recipe-cards.html

Check it out..there's even a place to sign up for free recipe emails from FOODSTUFF EZINE.

FREE PATTERN: Table Runner

2010-08-02T19:02:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I found this pattern on the CAPITAL QUILTS website: http://www.capitalquilts.com/freeproject/tablerunner.htm

and thought I would pass it along.....it is called the Patriotic Table Runner but I think that it is a great pattern that would be FAB in any color scheme........

I hope that you will enjoy it as well!

Bill

Yesterday was a great day in Burlington, VT...

2010-08-01T12:48:00.006-04:00

Beautiful weather, a beautiful city - it was so nice to cross the lake on the Ferry yesteraday - had a wonderful time.....and the Church Street Marketplace was very, very busy......WOW!!!!!

And, there was this big presence of colorful, handpainted cows all over the marketplace.....the name of the exposition was THE COWS COME HOME TO BURLINGTON!!!!!

Here's a link so you can find out more about the exposition!!!!

http://www.vermont.org/cows/index.aspx

Enjoy!!

Happy Saturday to everyone......

2010-07-31T06:23:00.002-04:00

It's a beautiful Saturday morning.....at 6h23 it has started well :-)

Will be off to Tim Horton's in about 30 minutes for a good morning jab of energy....

Today is going to be a beautiful day - a great day to head South of the border - perhaps into Plattsburgh, NY, and perhaps Malone, NY..may even take the Ferry across from Plattsburgh to Burlington, VT..haven't decided yet....

I just wanted to take a monent to wish everyone a great day - I will be back to visit the blog later this evening!!!

Bill

"QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE"

2010-07-30T17:56:00.004-04:00

Updated announcement fo my new QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE pattern....

FREE SHIPPING TIL AUGUST 31, 2010

This pattern is for a very practical tote....room to store your notions to take-along with you...your rotary cutter, seam ripper, needles and pins....and what a great way to keep all of these together than in this wonderful tote.

Finished size opened is 8" x 11", folded it is only 8" x 4"....very compact - very practical....

Cost of pattern: $7.95 (free shipping til August 31, 2010)

If you are interested in a pattern, just drop me a line at billlockedesigns@hotmail.com

Note: A limited number of kits have been launched in the same fabrics as the original tote shown in the pattern cover photo....first come/first served. (Beige/Brown colway)

Kit Price: $19.95

(includes Pattern and all precut pieces, as well as trims: rick rack, felted wool,buttons and batting)

QUILT SHOPS: Please contact me with all wholesale inquiries.

PROJECT: Criss-Cross Coasters.....

2010-07-30T07:46:00.004-04:00

Click on the link - the full tutorial is there.....step-by-step....

http://allsorts.typepad.com/allsorts/2006/11/crisscross_coas.html

To all of my quilting and sewing friends.......

If you haven't already tried this - you must.....I made these as Christmas gifts a couple of years ago - and what a hit....great for using up those extra pieces left from another project....

Great in any color.....

Hint: Try making a set with beige and brown prints alternating....STUNNING!!!!

When I made these, I added a square of Cotton Batting...in between the 2 bottom fabrics....it is thin enough to not make it bulky - but heavy enough to really protect furniture.

Easy, fast....I LOVED THIS PROJECT!!! and thought that I would share it with all of you....

ENJOY!!!!!

FILM: The Stoning of Soroya M.....

2010-07-30T07:30:00.003-04:00

Last night I watched this movie..what a deep movie.....that rips at what human rights are all about....WOW....I wonder how many of you have seen this.......Rarely do I watch a movie where I am so moved and so bothered by what is going on - I guess first of all we have to realize that this is based on a true story......

If you haven't seen this - please do.....I realized just how blessed I am to be who I am, where I am......

Here are a couple of links in case you haven't seen this movie or would like to learn more about it...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stoning_of_Soraya_M.

http://www.thestoning.com/

http://www.sbs.com.au/films/movie/7087/The-Stoning-of-Soraya-M.

ONLY 5 DAYS OLD - And already over 1000 Hits......

2010-07-29T23:01:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks everyone for making the blog a great success in it's first 5 days..I can't believe that we have already gone over the 1000 mark....WOW!!!! Thanks to everyone for dropping by - and please continue to drop in and catch up - check out friends sites in the side bar...I will continue to try to find great sites and fun things to keep the blog fun.......

Wishing you all a great evening..it's 23h03 here so it's time for me to get some beauty sleep....

So glad that tomorrow is Friday....

Saturday may be a little trip across the border into Malone, NY and Plattsburgh, NY...have a few quilting notions on my list that I want to try to pick up - check out some fabrics..as if I need more.. :-)..But then again, can never have too much.....just a fun few hours away....

Will check in again tomorrow......

GOOD NIGHT!!!!

My last completed project....My LAND OF TEA table topper.....

2010-07-29T19:38:00.007-04:00

This was such a fun project...my friend Cheryl in Illinois sent me the fabrics and a pattern for my birthday a couple of years ago - well, I loved these fabrics from the first time I opened my gift...but didn't get around to sewing it til last year....and then didn't get around to binding it til a couple of weeks ago...

It is such a fun project....my goal for this one is a great relaxing patio tea or brunch...I have some extra teapot squares that I am turning into hotplate holders...and I will find some coordinating solids to design some fun napkins and a tea cosy and it will be all set.....

I wasn't sure what to do for the binding but then decided to take all of the leftover pieces from the quilt and join them up and do a fun patched binding - I think it turned out well.

FREE COUPONS....Groceries, restaurants......(Canada and U.S.)

2010-07-29T07:43:00.004-04:00

Hi There,,,

I just found this and wanted to share it with you all - I haven't tested it totally yet but it looks like a great place to save a few bucks - and who doesn't like that....

You can select any of the coupons you would like - and SAVE!!!!!

Please leave messages and let us all know your comments on this one.....I can't wait to try some of these out.

Bill

Canada: http://coupons.smartcanucks.ca/

United States: http://printable-coupons.blogspot.com/

THANK YOU!!!!!

2010-07-29T07:35:00.006-04:00

Good morning everyone - It's another beautiful day here in Montreal.....

I just wanted to send a big thanks for making this first week such a great Blog success.....in less than a week there have been over 700 visits..WOW...I am in awe and so pleased..... THANK YOU!!!

Also to everyone to has been so supportive of my new patterns that started rolling of the printing press this week.....for your best wishes - for your purchases..THANKS!!!!!

I am so blessed to be part of such a wonderful, creative experience...and to be able to enjoy this passion. I thank you for being a part of it with me...and I hope that you will continue to visit me often here on the blog.....I promise to try to make it interesting - and to keep it informative....and find great things to share with you all...

Hugs to everyone for a wonderful Thursday!!!

Bill

Newfoundland Recipes

2010-07-28T21:24:00.002-04:00

This evening I was checking out a site for Newfoundland recipes...now I haven't tired these - but they sound great....perhaps someone's in the mood for a nice NEWFIE dinner... YUM, YUM......

And check out the photos - what I wouldn't do for a nice JIGG'S DINNER.....

ENJOY!!!!!!

Here's the link to the site:

http://newfoundland.ws/Newfoundland_recipes.asp

WOW.......Thanks for all of the visits....

2010-07-28T17:27:00.000-04:00

I have only been blogging for 4 days and already almost 500 visits....I AM AMAZED!!!!!
Thanks to everyone for dropping by - come back often :-)

Another beautiful day....

2010-07-28T07:27:00.004-04:00

Good Morning,

What a beautiful sunny day again today - the weather has been fabulous......it's 7h28 - will be off to work soon...but just wanted to drop in to wish everyone a great day.....

Well, yesterday was the launch of my first pattern..it was an exciting day to finish that first one - to have it out there......but, the creative wheels are turning and I must keep working to keep the next one on schedule. I can't tell you all about it but I can give you a few hints.....Nbr. 2 will be a quilted item for your Home Decor.....and one of my favourite flowers is the Sunflower.......I hope you will enjoy my next project.

No. 3 is already in the design stage..a bigger project..and the hint I will give for No. 3 is
"delicious".....

You will have to keep watching to see what clues come next.....

It is exciting to see that in the last few hours there have been over 100 visits to my blog...THANKS SO MUCH FOR VISITING!!!! Please be sure leave me comments and suggestions...just click on the COMMENTS at the bottom of a photo and write away..I would love to hear from you.....

Have a great day - I will check in again later...

Bill

My First Pattern is Born: "QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE"

2010-07-27T21:03:00.014-04:00

FREE SHIPPING TIL AUGUST 27, 2010 in celebration of the release of my first pattern....

Hi Everyone,
I am very excited to announce the first of my patterns - hot off the press and ready to get out there.....my QUILTING ESSENTIALS TOTE" - I wanted my first pattern to be a beginning - for me that's this tote...your notions are the start of many projects for us - our cutters, our seam rippers, needles and pins, scissors and pens.........and what a great way to keep all of these together than in this wonderful tote.

This is the pattern to make your very own notion tote as per the one that I have - very convenient - finished size opened is 8" x 11", folded it is only 8" x 4"....very compact - 4 roomy pockets to hold all of your notions for quilting class, travel, carry along in the car....very practical.....also lots of special space on the inside for your needles and pins with these wonderful felted flowers...

Cost of pattern: $7.95

If you are interested in a pattern, just drop me a line at billlockedesigns@hotmail.com

Postage for Canada - $1.22, the U.S. - $2.00, International: $4.00

Note: I do have 4 kits available as a part of the initial launch of this pattern...the kits
includ the pattern and all of the materials to complete your own tote - same
fabrics/notions as shown in the photo on my pattern cover. Brown/Beige Colorway.
All fabrics have been precut to make your assemble fast and easy. Cost of a kit is $19.95
+ postage. Kit are planned in assorted colways in the future - but only these 4 kits will be
available for the time being - First Come, First Served! :-)

Thanks for to all of my quilting friends for your encouragement and support....

Wholesale inquiries welcome!

Pattern nbr. 2 is already in the work and should be ready soon..I will be sure to give you updates here on my blog. Keep watching - it's a really fun project.....!!!!!!!

Blessing to all,

Bill

Little Bay Islands, Newfoundland

2010-07-27T17:45:00.003-04:00

This is a great website that will tell show you a bit about my hometown back in Newfoundland - a beautiful island town, about 45 minutes off the coast of mainland Newfoundland by Ferry Boat.....check it out....

http://www.littlebayislands.net/index.php

POEM: "I Think God is a Quilter"

2010-07-27T17:23:00.008-04:00

I Think God is a Quilter

I think God is a quilter
Who takes His needle and thread
To piece our world from nothingness
And give it form instead.
I think God is a quilter
And everything I see
Are pieces from His careful hand
From tree to bumblebee.
I think we see God's stitches
His texture everywhere:
The velvet moss, the grainy sand,
The silky strands of hair.
I think God is a quilter
Stitching tight and tiny rows
Adding to my scraps and pieces
Seaming everything He knows.
I think he cuts the pattern
From what I'd throw away.
He shows me how to use each scrap
In His redeeming way.
I think God quilts a pattern
From everything I live;
But He can only stitch the quilt
From what I choose to give.
I think God is a Quilter
Stitching strength where I am weak.
Showing me thet life He touches
Embraces everything I seek.
I think God is a Quilter
From the patience in each thread;
Proving length of time no barrier;
Treating time a gift, instead.
I think quilts are lessons
God uses just to teach
That our pieces and our remnants
Have kaleidoscopic reach.
So, in the life I'm living
With pieces everywhere
I'll give them to the Quilter
To stitch with loving care.
I'll give them to the Quilter
Unwanted though they be
And with his work of quilting
He'll make a quilt of me.
- Author Unknown

A fun project I just found on another blog.....

2010-07-27T07:56:00.003-04:00

I was visiting the French blog SCRAP RECYCLAGE this morning..and it's amazing what they have done with vintage button......check out the flowers.....

Here's a link to the blog...and a photo of the button flowers.... http://scraprecyclage.blogspot.com/

Happy Monday evening....

2010-07-26T21:27:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Just dropping in to say hi...and to let you know about my day.....
It was a good day - a beautiful sunny day......

This evening I spent some time preparing my fabrics for my 2nd quilting pattern that I hope to complete within the next few days..needing to complete the project for photos for the pattern cover.

My first pattern is in the final stages and everything shoud be complete this week....I have also made a few kits that will also be available in the same fabrics as those in the photo on the pattern cover.

I will keep you posted when it is ready for distribution.......

Just a little hint..the first pattern is going to be a smaller project...something that we can all use in our every quilting projects...I love mine..and I think you will have fun making your own.....

Pattern number 2 is such a fun project as well....and will be wonderful to display in your home...I can't wait to show you both of these patterns.....

There are several others that will make their appearance soon - I have been busy the last few months....and now is the time to bring my patterns to the table..... Thanks to all who have been cheering me on and sending all of those positive thoughts my way......we have such a big quilting family.

Well, I just finished cutting all of my fabrics for this 2nd project/pattern and decided to have a bit of a relaxing evening - perhaps a bit of t.v.

Speaking of moral support, my wonderful French friend Vero in France has been in contact with me today - we've been writing back and forth this afternoon..she is the owner of a wonderful quilt shop in Fontagny, France called BORN TO QUILT - and shares the shop with her wonderful helper, Miss Lizzy,,,the most beautiful Chocolate Lab.... Her shop is magnificent - you must check in on her website.... http://borntoquilt.fr/ Be sure to check out the links - the photos...scroll down and see her preferred sites......you will see some English - some French - you should really trop in - and have a visit - and when you do, be sure to leave her a little message to say hi...and to tell her that her friend Bill told you to drop in and visit...she is wonderful - and will be so pleased to hear from you.

She is really busy now as she does a lot of teaching in additional to keeping shops...so I know that she is really busy preparing for the next classes.....

Best wishes Vero......we adore you :-)

Hugs to everyone - wishing you all a wonderful evening......

Keep well,

Blessings,,

Bill

Another beautiful day.....

2010-07-25T08:25:00.002-04:00

Actually the sun comes and goes..but it does seem nice so far..let's hope for more sunshine....
I have been working on finalizing my first completed pattern....spend last night making my samples for the photos for the pattern packet....had a fun time..and really liking the way that it is coming along....It looks like I may be able to do my first reveailing this coming week.....
Wishing you all a great day!
Bill

My friend - Amarilis, A textile Designer in Matanzas, Cuba....

2010-07-24T17:05:00.000-04:00

I hope that you will enjoy this video - Amarilis and her husband Hector are wonderful friends and live in Mantanzas, Cuba....

Amarilis is a wonderful textile designer - and this video will give you a glance at her creations.

I received a gift from her collectoin when I was there in May - 2 beautiful shirts....I will have to take photos of these, but for now - here is a wonderful video of Amarilis at work...

Click on the video and enjoy!!!!!!

My Cuban Treasure........

2010-07-24T16:59:00.000-04:00

This quilt will always have a special place in my heart - with it's history - coming from a very special friend in Mantanzas, Cuba....this was given to me by my friend Romalia during a visit there in May.....

I will do a few repairs to this masterpiece....a project made by Romalia and her mother-in-law about 15 years ago - using what little materials were available - recycling fabrics, Cuban Sugar Sacks for the backing....it is beautiful...Thank you Romaila!!!!!!

My Applique/Pieced combo.....

2010-07-24T16:11:00.000-04:00

This quilt I call my SUNFLOWER quilt - of course we all recognize the coneflower motifs..but I decided to make my own renditions - add some colors that were a bit more earthy and Voila...for me my SUNFLOWER quilt :-)

This is the quilt where I tried machine applique for the first time and loved it......For this quilt, I make the center panel and then worked with that and auditioned fabrics that I felt would show off the colors and make the flowers pop.

I did hand stippling over all of the center panel - the borders are all machine quilted.....

This one was especially a lot of fun to do!

1930's repro - PINWHEEL BLOCK

2010-07-24T16:08:00.001-04:00

I just loved pinwheels...and on the Garden Forum, we took part in a birthday block exchange - mine was this beautiful PINWHEEL BLOCK....

I love 1930's repro fabrics...and that's why I chose them for this block....

I auditioned many fabrics for the sashing and borders but finially decided this yellow fabric just showed of these blocks beautifullly - and there is a slick little raspberry fleck in the print that just sets it off just right....

This was another fun project to do.....

LOG CABIN Quilt

2010-07-24T16:04:00.000-04:00

The log cabin blocks is one of my favourites.....

This one was especially fun to make since I was working with some of my favourite colors - the deep red, the dark greens, browns........

My Sunflower sampler quilt

2010-07-24T15:58:00.001-04:00

This is my sunflower sample quilt made from MAYWOOD fabrics....their FULL SUN collections - I thoroughly loved working with these fabric..and love the way that this one developed.....

It will always be one of my favourites..... I do need to take one ore photo - the binding now is done - and I am able to enjoy this one!!!!

Welcome....to the beginning of my Quilting Blog.......

2010-07-24T15:43:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,
I want to record this little message as the official launch of my little blog...I have been a bit late in my internet world getting started with one but here I am.
I hope that this blog will be a great chance for not only sharing with you want I am up to - but also hearing from you and seeing what you are doing as well....
In our little creative world of quilts and other creative adventures....it is great to have a chance to share be a part of each other's world..
Welcome to this little blog of mine - I hope you will visit often - and share it with me....
Hugs to you all!
Bill