Paris for Darlene

 My work on Darlene's block "Je T'aime Paris" is complete. After writing in the little journal, it will be in the mail tomorrow toWilma in the Netherlands to finish up. The lamp post is my most favorite part of this block...and I did not stitch that (wish I had!). Cathy K did...and it is so wonderful!

 My contribution were some seams (sorry one is so blurry)...

a charm motif...

 and a poodle embroidery motif. I also did some general stuff like attaching a ribbon that Darlene has sent along, and a piece of accent trim below that piece.

 There isn't a lot of space left for Wilma to work...but, I'm sure she'll come up with a beautiful finish for the block that will just be gorgeous! Her work always is!

Needle Crazy Seams

Finally, I think I've got it!

I have been wanting to do more crazy quilting, which wouldn't be difficult because I've done very little to date! Oh, I have several books...and have quilted for a while...just not much crazy quilting. Why? I'm horrible at stitching in a straight line!

The more free-hand I have; the easier it is. Too messy? Just cover it up with another button, or charm, or piece of lace. I have absolutely no fear with it comes to designing...it's the meticulious stitching that scares me to death.

So, when a fellow stitcher on my HGTV Message Board recommended a set of "stitch guides"; I jumped on ordering them. Then, let them sit in my sewing room with little notice for a couple of months. I just pulled them out and used them to stitch the front of a needle case. Wow! I have found a tool that is really going to help me out!! How stupendous is that!

So, if you're looking for some help, I highly recommend this little cottage industry product from Georgia...www.embroiderysuccess-strips.com

And, No, I don't know the lady that created these...and I don't get any kick-backs for recommending them. They simply helped me...and I believe in sharing good things. :)

Here are my photos of seam work using these (I'll not be sharing examples of seams that have gone before these...because they died an unnatural death...none too soon)...:)