This and That...

More of my time is being taken up with Christmas preparations than sewing, but I've still been puttering along on a few things.  Recently, I showed my quilt bee how to make these Sweet Treat Bags and I just put the finishing touches on my second one.  They're just so easy to make!

I've also been working on turning this stack of fabric...

into this freshly ironed pile ready to be used in future projects.  I love seeing them stacked up like that.  (True confession - I don't iron any of our clothes, but I love to iron fabric!)

The 505 basting spray finally came in and I've basted my Celebrations quilt.  I also set up both my sewing machines so I can quilt this quilt and the matching  Festivities table runner.  I'm going to be using YLI 100# silk thread on the first and metallic thread on the second.  It took a bit to get them set up with the right needles, tension, etc. and to do some samples, but now they're ready to go!

Babylock set up for free motion quilting with silk thread

Husqvarna set up for free motion quilting with metallic thread

I have both of them set up at the same time so I can switch back and forth between the 2 quilts (when I'm tired of working on one).  Initially, I tried to use the metallic thread on my Babylock, but just couldn't get it to work.  However, my other machine is having no issues with it (yet).

I can't imagine why I have any trouble getting sewing done with helpers like these...

As bright and cheerful as this time of year is for most, I know that's not true for everyone.  For some it's hard.  You're not full of Christmas Spirit, singing carols or decorating trees.  For those of you, I pray you find some moments of joy or at least a measure of peace during this season.

Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. 

Psalm 25:5 (NLT)