Nearly Insane Fans

Block #39 - Ann

2012-02-03T10:44:00.004+10:30

Back to purple for this block - one of my favorite colors. I was away at a three-day quilt retreat last weekend, and worked on this when I needed a break from my other projects. Relatively painless once I got the center the right size.

Block #23 - Ann

2012-01-08T07:34:00.003+10:30

This was supposed to be my easy block after #18. Didn't take nearly as long, but I learned the hard way that I still needed to be just as accurate on the easy ones as the hard ones. The bright colors make me happy, though.

Block #18 - Ann

2011-12-30T12:15:00.003+10:30

The blog has been quiet for a while, but I've been working on this single block for the last two months, so had nothing to show until now. It wasn't until today when I was finishing this up that I checked the intro in the book to see if this was THE block, and it is: 229 pieces, the most of any of the blocks. It is paper pieced, and far from perfect. I was thankful that I had taken a paper-pieced miniature class a couple of years ago, as I needed all of those techniques on this one. Still needs to be trimmed and squared up, but I am so happy to be done with it!

And it just keeps getting better!

2011-11-06T16:24:00.001+10:30

My Mum and I visited the guild show again today - I wanted to visit with my quilt again, and Mum was dying to see it hanging. I'll never tire of seeing it there with it's lovely ribbon. Lizzy called me to let me know that two of the guild ladies were looking for me - and I have to tell you they had the most exciting news ...

My quilt was one of those selected to represent South Australia at the Australasian Quilters Convention in April next year! Can you believe it?? I'm just gobsmacked, and completely honoured! Just when I thought things could not be more wonderful, they just get even better!

Chatter soon friends - I'm still on cloud nine! xox

Winner!

2011-11-04T17:39:00.000+10:30

What amazing fun this has been! My NI quilt placed first in its category at the South Australian Quilters Guild show!

I'm beyond thrilled, and still riding high. Thank you for sharing this journey with me! xox

Block #6 - Ann

2011-10-24T10:31:00.002+10:30

I have not made much quilting progress lately, as we have some remodeling in progress. Remodeling means dust everywhere, which means I have to keep all my quilting stuff packed away in plastic bins. It's just too much effort to dust the room and get everything out again except on a weekend. But today I managed to finish a nice easy block.

My NI is completely finished!

2011-10-16T12:16:00.000+10:30

My NI quilt (Not Quite Insane) is completely and utterly finished, and I'm just thrilled! I took this quick pic of it hanging in my dining room.

This quilt has been the best fun to make (machine pieced and hand quilted) - a very long process - and I've very much enjoyed the ride. I'm so ready to work on something new!!

Block 97

2011-10-09T21:51:00.002+10:30

No Sewing this weekend but I did manage to finish this one on Monday. Just the way it happens sometimes. This block is a little darker but it is a top block. Love the subtle blue centre. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane is happening Block 98

2011-10-02T21:48:00.002+10:30

Block 98. I couldnt put the first row together as I had not made B98. Made only one side as I just had to see what was going to happen when I added the sashing and cornerstones.
LOOK :-)

Ok so I have not made the top LH corner block or finished the second row as I need B96 but what do you think?? I like it. I like the colour graduation and the fabric is a little more golden than in the photo. The photo will enlarge

Here is a close up. Sure wish I had a wall to pin it on. I still have to make block 22 and I had been avoiding that one. I know the blue stands out in my sea block but there will be enough blue in the rest of the quilt to compliment. Long weekend Monday tomorrow and the weather is magic. Enjoy yourselves where ever you are in the world. Cheers Lynne

Happy to have finished some more blocks

2011-09-14T07:19:00.001+09:30

This was the nice easy one I did after a stressful day.

Block 13

Block 7
Cut one piece a bit short at the bottom, but I’ll have enough to fudged it when sewing together.

Block 26

Nice and Easy

Block 36

I never noticed until now that two of the green diamonds go the wrong way. Grr!
Or are they?

Block 42

This was an absolute pain to do as I kept sewing the strips together the wrong way around. I didn’t just do it once, but at least 3 times. Then after piecing the centre I had the two vertical rows of geese going away from the centre instead of towards it. Ah well….

Block 66
I really like this block.

Block 60 –
Another nice one. I’m trying to have my colours not too drab.

Block 48
This one is a bit different. Some of the blocks are so easy, and some are very difficult.

Block 54

I really like the star blocks. I think they are my favourite.

Thanks for dropping by

Block52 - Lynne

2011-09-04T12:20:00.002+09:30

Spring has sprung this week and the temperatures have been around 26c for a couple of days. My roses are out and so I could not resist making my block to include roses. I know the centre is not a Repro fabric but it is so perfect with little red roses and birds. I enjoyed making this block
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 85

2011-08-18T20:16:00.002+09:30

I quite like the way this one developed. Lots of tiny pieces but I did not lose the colour. Had fun with the stripes.
Cheers Lynne

My Nearly Insane Blocks

2011-08-15T10:53:00.001+09:30

I got stuck in once again with my Nearly Insane Blocks, and have managed to make these.

Block 12

Block 24

Block 30

I might have to make an alteration to this block as it turned out wrong. I should have had the pink triangles on one side going the other way.

Not too sure about this one as the colour in reality is very black. Might be too dark.

And, last but not least is Block 18

This took me 3 days on and off – 229 pieces

Thanks for dropping by

Nearly Insane Block 33

2011-07-31T21:30:00.002+09:30

Not happy with my block 33 Thought it looked odd in the book.I want to turn those units around so that it is more or less symmetrical.As is is paper-pieced it is not easy to turn the units around. Maybe Salinda was having a bad hair day :-)
Feeling a little better as I see that Tazzie interpreted the block the same too. Maybe I should just leave it as a quirk.

Love that Dargate Indigo in the centre and decided to go for Green and Gold as an Aussie symbol. Pink is there as there are small pink flowers in the indigo. Besides I just happened to like that pink.
Finally finished all 120 units of 4 Flying geese! Loved doing them but I was sure glad to finish.
I can now concentrate on Nearly Insane and Maltaville. Have a Great Week All Cheers Lynne

It’s a bit slow going….

2011-07-12T13:10:00.001+09:30

But I am trying to do a few more blocks. I miss making them whilst I am doing other things.

Block 47

I never noticed that I had made a mistake on the next one, but I am going to leave it. I’m sure when its in the quilt it won’t be noticed, and if it is, so be it!!

Block 53

Thanks for dropping by

I’ve had a Couple……

2011-05-17T09:35:00.001+09:30

of nice afternoons sewing, and have managed some more Nearly Insane Blocks. I am piecing mine on the diagonal of the quilt. I find it easier for me to work out where I am and I like ticking them off as I go.

Its funny how the brain works differently for every-one. This works best for me.

This one is Block 23 more fiddly than you realise

Below is Block 29

and Block 35 – this block took me all afternoon to piece. My purple is a little close in colour to the blue, but overall I don’t mind it.

These little blocks are so addictive, that I really missed sewing them whilst my hand was in plaster. All is well with the thumb now, just need to keep stretching it with exercise.

Thanks for dropping by

Nearly Insane Block 50

2011-05-02T22:18:00.002+09:30

B50 is done. All those set in corners were a challenge. Yes I did paper-piece. Loved the way the colours interacted. That centre Chrome Yellow is a zinger. I only bought a fat 16th from the Quilted Crow and a little bit here and a little bit there sure stands out. I love it!! Bye For Now Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 29 :-)

2011-04-10T11:51:00.002+09:30

Now that I am back to Insane I decided to make another with Australian Fabric. These prints are from very old ranges. The green wattle fabric compliments the inner stripe Repro. Love the gums and the waratah. Off to sew some more. Stay tune. Have a great weekend all Cheers Lynne

Block #95 - Ann

2011-04-03T09:52:00.002+09:30

I love the middle border on the top half of this block. The fabric didn't appeal to me that much when I chose it but it really works well here.

I've been rotating through groups of 10 to choose which blocks to make...30-something, 40-something...etc. but picking a random block from each group of ten Having made it through another full round, it's time to head back to the beginning and blocks 1-9 and see what looks like fun for the next one.

Top Finished - Tazzie

2011-03-27T21:56:00.002+10:30

OMG! Today is a big day ... I have finally finished the top of my Nearly Insane quilt! I'm entirely thrilled with how it looks.

The picture could be better, but I'm sure you'll forgive me - it's almost 10pm and so it's quite dark. But of course I couldn't wait until tomorrow morning to share.

Now I just have to wait until my backing fabric arrives, and I'll be able to get busy with the quilting. Happy days!

Block #87 - Ann

2011-03-26T11:01:00.004+10:30

I hadn't meant to make mirror images...I intended to offset the inner four patches. But I didn't notice until it was almost done, and they'll be on opposite sides of the quilt, so I'm satisfied as is. There's not much going on in this quilt, even I won't remember all the ways I have varied from the pattern.

I like this a lot better - Tazzie

2011-03-25T21:57:00.002+10:30

I spent some time unpicking and re-sewing this afternoon, and this is the result:

I'm much happier with this arrangement. Even though it's not how the original quilt is put together, I really like how the narrow inner border defines the edge of the pieced blocks. I also like how it tamed the problem of all the bumpy seam intersections between the main body of the quilt and the zig-zags. There are only two further zig-zag sides to put on, and then it's the final wide border, which is the same fabric as the sashing strips and the narrow inner border.

So happy with how this is progressing, I'm really on the home stretch :-)

Inner Border - Tazzie

2011-03-25T09:59:00.001+10:30

I haven't had a lot of time for sewing this week, but thought I'd share where I'm at anyway. One zig-zag border is on my NI quilt top, and I've started putting together some pieces for the subsequent borders.

Just one thing I'd like to share - this border doesn't really fit the quilt. I drew the centre up in EQ7 using the dimensions in the book and it sizes to 76-3/4", and making the border up as directed it measures 78".

As you see, I've eased it in place, but I'm wondering if I should take it off and add a narrow border 1/2" finished all around inbetween the blocks and the zig zag border. It's not in keeping with the original quilt, but it would solve the problem, and also make the issue of very bulky seam intersections between the blocks and the zig zag disappear. What do you think? And for anyone that has finished the quilt top, how did you deal with this? I just don't think the suggestion in the book of playing with the seam allowance is accurate enough.

Inner Border - Tazzie

2011-03-21T13:01:00.001+10:30

Since my last post I've been working on the inner border of the NI quilt, and so far, I think I'm liking what I see :-) I've almost completed enough zig-zags for one whole side, but I have to put the stitching aside in favour of some chores for now.

When I was imagining how this border would go, I was certain that I'd choose tan and navy, but Jenny and I auditioned fabrics the other day, and we selected these pink and green fabrics which are the colours they used in the book. Looks nice, yes?

I'll be looking forward to getting more done ... I'll check back in soon :-)

Nearly Insane Centre - Tazzie

2011-03-19T17:47:00.003+10:30

Last night and this afternoon I got busy piecing, and I'm so happy to report that I've completed the centre of my Nearly Insane quilt! I'm thrilled with how it looks and how it's gone together.

Next on the agenda is the zig-zag border. My dear friend Jenny visited yesterday, and we spent a little time hunting in my stash and have found the perfect combination for the zig-zag's. After dinner is done with tonight, I'll make up a little test piece to ensure it's what I'm looking for. Happy days!

Block #74 - Ann

2011-03-16T12:15:00.002+10:30

My progress is much slower than the amazing Tazzie, but I am steadily marking them off

I can't seem to help myself - I must always mix batiks and modern geometrics and country prints and vintage apron fabrics into a single block.

Block 80 Remake - Tazzie

2011-03-15T23:41:00.001+10:30

And so my happiness is complete!

Block 58 - Tazzie

2011-03-15T22:26:00.001+10:30

I didn't think I'd have the time to put this block together today, but I did, and I'm thrilled! This is my final Nearly Insane block - #58!

How exciting to have completed all the blocks, it has been hard going at times, but utterly worth it. I have one little thing I'd like to finally do, and that is to alter Block 80. It's a little crookedy, and if I'm going to fix it, now is the time to do it - I don't want it to bug me for all eternity.

I'm so pumped to start putting that zig zag border together. Bring it on!

Block 70 - Tazzie

2011-03-14T22:41:00.001+10:30

Here is my Block 70. As much as I want to rush holus-bolus into the last block, because it's getting late, and with work commitments, it's unlikely I'll get any stitching done until Thursday. Unless I get super organised ... and there's not much chance of that!

I made a small error with this block - the large cream outer triangles should have been green, and the smaller green triangles should have been cream. Having said that, I'm still thrilled with the way the block looks, so it's staying as is.

Rock on Thursday, I'm dying to get the last block made!!

Block 57 - Tazzie

2011-03-14T15:11:00.001+10:30

Here is my NI Block 57. I've used all sorts of red in this one, as I'm getting very low on some fabrics, and don't really want to cut into yardage at this very late stage. I also managed to use the little owl I had intended to use in block 63 - it fit this one perfectly (though when the block is set on point he's going to tilt a little).

Only two blocks to go now, and they're drawn up and ready to go!

Block 75 - Tazzie

2011-03-13T21:55:00.001+10:30

Here it is - Block 75 - it seemed to take forever! I'm so glad to have this one checked off the list - the final three blocks will seem like a breeze after this little cutie!

To get the block to sit flat for a photograph, I've soaked it with so much 'best press' that it feels like a little piece of cardboard!

And for the purists, you'll notice that I added a couple of tiny squares in the middle, and slightly altered the second last, and last row of triangles for symmetry's sake. The wonky nature of some of the blocks irks me a little. So, because of my changes, there may be a couple more than 181 pieces in this block ... I just don't feel like counting them right now! :-)

On today's agenda ...

2011-03-13T14:12:00.001+10:30

Today I'm tackling the dreaded block 75. It has 181 pieces, and I predict it's going to take a loooong time.

Update: I've completed the centre to the first row of green triangles ... now we're getting to the really tiny pieces! Pictures soon :-)

Block 69 - Tazzie

2011-03-07T15:20:00.001+10:30

Here is my Block 69 - finished just a few minutes ago. Just a few more gaps to fill and I can start final assembly of the quilt top. Very exciting!

Block 65 - Tazzie

2011-03-06T22:55:00.002+10:30

And here is my second block for the day - Block 65.

It's just short of 11pm Sunday now, so it's fairly safe to say that I'm done for the weekend. Tomorrow is my day off though, so there may be another NI block in my near future :-)

Block 63 - Tazzie

2011-03-06T14:50:00.001+10:30

I'm on a Nearly Insane roll again. Here is Block 63 - isn't the fussy cut fan in the centre cute? I had wanted to use an owl which was on the same fabric, but it was too close to the selvedge to center it nicely.

If you're counting along, you'll know I only have six blocks remaining now ... let's see if I can get another done before the end of the weekend ...

Block 56 - Tazzie

2011-03-05T23:31:00.000+10:30

Here is my Block 56. It was actually quite easy to put together, I made it this evening while I have the house to myself. Something that doesn't happen too often!

I didn't realise until I looked at the picture just now how similar that tan print and one of the cream prints is - how fun! Once again, for this block I used a variety of small scraps - many of my NI fabrics are tiny pieces now. I'll have to make up some small log cabin blocks or something to use the last of the little bits.

I have only 7 blocks left to make - I'd like to get another one prepared tonight, and perhaps I'll get it done tomorrow :-)

Block 6 – Sue

2011-03-04T12:02:00.002+10:30

Have managed to finish Block # 6

DONE! Here is BLOCK 17

What a mission this one was. It has taken me on and off a couple of days to get it right. ( or as near as)

I think I went about the piecing in the wrong order, then ended up with a bit of a mess. Thank goodness its done.

Block 50 - Tazzie

2011-02-20T00:12:00.001+10:30

My final finish for the day - block 50. I was a little naughty with this one, and redrafted the outside area to eliminate a second round of set-in seams. I was a little over them by the time I'd completed the centre. If you stand back and squint your eyes, you'll never notice :-)

I'll probably draw up another one before I head to bed, ready for me to stitch up tomorrow. I think I have only one block left to complete before I can attach the next row. Super fun!

Block 62 - Tazzie

2011-02-19T14:05:00.000+10:30

Here's another one finished. This is block 62, and so easy to put together. I'd like to get another one underway this afternoon. I'm not sure which I'll choose yet.

I'm down to single digits remaining now :-)

Block 64 - Tazzie

2011-02-18T22:55:00.001+10:30

I've just finished NI block 64. As I often do, I changed the orientation of two of the outer rows of triangles. It pleases me to make the blocks more symmetrical.

And just thought I'd mention ... 10 blocks to go!

Sue – I’ve been Busy Making My

2011-02-17T14:20:00.001+10:30

Nearly Insane Block # 71

Oops that looks a little off – some fudging needed there I think.

and Block # 34

I enjoyed this one. You can’t beat a nice Star Block.

The background fat 1/4 I bought for $1 at a stall at a show. :-)

And Block # 40

Block #67 - Ann

2011-02-17T11:14:00.002+10:30

This was supposed to be a nice easy block, but I managed to make the corner square-in-a-square pieces the wrong size! Oh well, those went into the crumb block bin, and the new ones fit nicely.

Block 74 - Tazzie

2011-02-16T23:35:00.001+10:30

Here is my Nearly Insane block 74. Only 11 to go now ... excitement is building!

Block 59 - Tazzie

2011-02-14T23:46:00.002+10:30

Here is my block 59, made this evening with some favourite scrappy fabrics.

The red and the blue fabrics were from Donna's scrap bag, the pink-ish fabric a leftover from my DJ quilt, and the green a gift from my dear friend Linda. I love it when my blocks have such special memories :-)

Block 44 - Tazzie

2011-02-11T23:42:00.000+10:30

Oh my goodness, do I feel a sense of accomplishment tonight? Yes, definitely yes! I've completed block 44 of my Nearly Insane quilt. It's a toughie, and I'd wager possibly one of the toughest in the quilt.

Those little stars in the block measure 2.5" finished, so you can imagine how fiddly all those inset seams are. I think larger versions of these stars will be a breeze from now on!

You know what's funny? In my picture, you can see some of the light fabric triangle sections and a couple of squares are brighter than other areas ... I didn't remember to pull all the freezer paper pieces from the back before I took the picture, and you can see the dark table surface through the other areas. Duh!

Not sure what block I'll tackle next - there are only 13 to go now :-)

Blocks 68 & 72 - Tazzie

2011-02-08T19:15:00.001+10:30

Just so you know I haven't been slacking off ;-) here are my two latest Nearly Insane blocks.

This is block 72 - I made it late-ish last night. It was late when I took the picture, and I'm declaring that the hour was the reason for the blurry picture - nothing to do with the camera operator *lol* I was able to use some of my skinny leftover strips for this block. With the tiny pieces, nothing is wasted, that's for sure!

And here is block 68 - I made it on Friday, but haven't showed it off yet. Another one that has used the tiniest of pieces.

I had a couple of questions from people I wasn't able to personally email back to - mostly asking about the size of the blocks. They're six inch blocks - and can be quite time consuming for such small blocks, but very rewarding.

Now I only have 14 blocks left to make. I'll try and make another tonight. I'm already thinking ahead to how I'll quilt it, this is such fun! :-)

Just for fun - Tazzie

2011-02-05T12:20:00.001+10:30

Just for fun this morning I thought I'd lay out all the elements I have got/made so far for my Nearly Insane quilt.

Clearly I still need to cut more sashing strips and cornerstones. And even though I only have 15 blocks still to make, doesn't their absence leave huge gaps?

Seeing this picture really spurs me on to finish the top. As soon as I've finished covering Camo's books, I'm getting right back into making blocks. This is EXCITING!

Another row added - Tazzie

2011-02-04T12:13:00.001+10:30

Last night I added another row to my Nearly Insane quilt. You can see that three of the corner blocks are in place, so I'm more than half way with the top now. (As long as you don't include the inner and outer border!)

Here is the full view of where I'm at ... hard to get a good shot of this ... the quilt is going to be a big girl!

And here's one a little closer, you can see some of the blocks a little better :-)

I was so excited to get this row in place last night that I made so many rookie errors while doing the stitching. I really think I did more 'unsewing' than sewing. Seriously! And I was so into it that I lost track of time - I was jolted into reality when Marty came into the sewing room at 1.15am and asked if I would be thinking about sleeping anytime soon ... Ooops!

Block 37 - Tazzie

2011-02-01T22:16:00.000+10:30

Here is my Nearly Insane block 37 - I'm a few days too late for the NI Yahoo Group challenge, but still totally thrilled to have this one done. Why? Because now I can add the next row to my quilt top! Yay!

It didn't take nearly as long as I expected - I started the block after dinner yesterday, and I finished it up at around midnight. Not bad really, considering there are a lot of REALLY small pieces in this one :-)

Block 28 - Sue

2011-01-31T09:11:00.001+10:30

I decided rightly or wrongly not to redraft this pattern Unfortunately that means some of the corners are in the SA.

I hope it’ll look OK when sewn in.

Block 22

Amazingly I never noticed the flying geese on the sides of the block are going the wrong way.

Sue

Block #55 - Ann

2011-01-31T03:41:00.003+10:30

I was in the mood for a green block, and had this all planned out. I penciled in my plan, and by the second piece I had already used the wrong fabric. Oh well. By the end I was tired of looking at all of these greens up close, but now that I am able to stand back and look at the block as a whole, I can live with it again.

Three more and ?? to go!!

2011-01-28T13:42:00.001+10:30

I have managed to make another 3 Nearly Insane Blocks but haven’t had time to post them, so here I go..

Block 27 which was a little tricky. Will have to fudge those 1/4” seams when I add the sashing.

Next is Block 16

This was relatively easy

Then Block 4 Which I really enjoyed.

I am struggling along with Block 22 at the moment. My printer printed the pattern wrong ( I think it was my margins or something) and I didn’t realise until I had pieced 2 of the outside borders and got 7 flying geese instead of 6. Then I ran out of the outside fabric on the 4th border, so I did what Salinda Rupp would have had to do, and used a different fabric.

Ah well I had done too much to redo the borders. Will post the photo as soon as I’ve finished it.

Thanks for dropping by

Back again! #23

2011-01-18T19:49:00.002+10:30

It's been a while but I'm still here. Quite enjoyed 23, am still in the middle of 22. I will never be as industrious or as fast as some of you but I do intend to finish. Have greatly enjoyed the variety of blocks shown here - always interesting to see other people's fabrics!

Block 80 - Tazzie

2011-01-11T12:42:00.003+10:30

Here is my block 80. The middle of the block had me quite puzzled for a while, as the pattern in the book bears no resemblance to the block that the author made, or to the block in the original quilt. In the end, I just made up a checkerboard using 1" strips and cut it down on the cross to a 4" piece, and then added the border sections. Probably not the most accurate way to put it together, but I'm happy with it anyway. And very happy also to get one of the tricky ones checked off the list!

One more Block…

2011-01-10T13:55:00.002+10:30

Just now finished another Nearly Insane Block. # 21

I’m on a roll now - Cheers Sue

Finally Nearly Insane Block 8

2011-01-08T20:42:00.002+10:30

Block 8 is finally finished. I actually made it to the last border before I chose the fabrics for the last border. Did not like my first colour choices and this is my second.
I did manage to squeeze a couple of tiny bugs and a chicken’s head in. Not obvious or they will not be in the bigger quilt. I have set out to make this block 3 times in the last 18 months. and I am happy it is finished.
Have a great Creative weekend All
Cheers Lynne

Block 8 Revisited! - Sue

2011-01-06T09:41:00.017+10:30

I decided the whole block was too light in colour, so I undid the outer border and remade it. I think it looks alot better.

Block 15
I enjoyed this one, as it was easy. The main thing for me is to get the colours right. I have so many Civil War style fabrics, but have to make sure the blocks are going to go together. I may have to remake block 1 and 2??

Block 9

I looks a little crooked on the outer corners but it will be fine when its sewn in the quilt. I should have starched the block before scanning!

Block 77 - Tazzie

2011-01-05T09:00:00.000+10:30

I'm really on a roll! Here is my block 77 - the fabrics in the flying geese points are a little blendy, but I can live with them. It's feeling good to get back into these darling little blocks, and I think I now only have 18 to go! Yay!

Block 61 - Tazzie

2011-01-04T19:37:00.002+10:30

I'm all inspired right now, and so I've gotten another block together quickly. This one is block 61, and if I had to choose a word to describe it, I'd choose 'pesky'. Lots of flippy corners!

If you haven't made this block, I definitely have a recommendation: always press your seams toward the red fabric. Makes the block go together much easier. Ask me how I know :-)

Block 55 - Tazzie

2011-01-03T09:00:00.001+10:30

Here is my block 55. Isn't it a bit of an oddfellow? I've cobbled it together using the smallest of my scraps from the bottom of my 'Nearly Insane Scraps' container - and yet there are still so many more!

This is block number 78 for me, so that means I have only 20 to go. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Block 82 Nearly Insane

2011-01-02T19:19:00.002+10:30

Hi All I am straight back into my blocks. Hope to finish piecing all the Nearly Insane blocks this year :-) I have made 57 blocks so far. Oh and I am halfway through piecing the dreaded Block 8! Stay tune for a photo soon. Hope you have a Great New Years Weekend Cheers Lynne

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T14:31:00.003+10:30

Happy New Year to all my Nearly Insane friends. I hope 2011 brings wonderful things for you all.

I'm looking forward to getting back into my blocks now that all the Christmas and New Year fun is finished with. I wonder which block I'll choose next ...

Nearly Insane Blocks # 8 & 14

2010-12-14T13:30:00.027+10:30

Whew! Block # 8 was a mission, but I thought I may as well tackle it now, rather then leave it. I am piecing my blocks in the diagonal order, so the dreaded # 8 was next on the list. I have noticed its a bit wonky top right corner so I may have to tweak it!!

The next block # 14

Must get back to the kitchen and make some Apricot & Coconut Balls in time for Saturday. We have our Family Christmas Celebration a week before, so all the adult kids and the kiddies can go to their other respective parents/grandparents on Christmas day. The MIL ( me) doesn’t seem to get Christmas day, but thats O.K. as we go to the Italian side of the family for our traditional Christmas fare!

Bye for now
Sue

Nearly Insane Blocks 7 and 77

2010-12-06T13:27:00.002+10:30

Block 7 and Block 77. They look so different. There are little apples around the square in the square and what looked to me like Christmas lights in the Chrome Yellow in B7

Love Block 77Those Greens and Double pinks with a little Chrome yellow as a Zing

Wish I could say I was getting more sewing done! Plan on baking another fruit cake tomorrow. The Hazelnut one and other Christmassy things. Have a Great Week All Cheers Lynne

Block 43 - Tazzie

2010-11-29T17:06:00.002+10:30

Here is my block 43. I'm so glad to have this one done, though it wasn't as tough as I anticipated. I used a little spray starch to help stabilise bias edges - love me some Mary Ellen's Best Press!

I really don't think I'm ready for block 44 yet - it really looks tough, so I'll tackle something else in the meantime I think :-)

I nearly Forgot To Add These Blocks

2010-11-27T13:34:00.002+10:30

After looking at all the lovely blocks from every-one I noticed although I had added some to my blog susannasquilts I had forgotten to add them to the Nearly Insane Blog, so here goes.

Block # 3 Block # 5 Block # 10

and Block # 11

They certainly are addictive and once my Christmas gifty stuff is made I will get back to them in the holidays.

The lovely thing about after Christmas is that DH closes the office for 4 whole weeks. Wippee!! 4 weeks of no office work /phones.

Cheers for now

Sue

Block #48 - Ann

2010-11-25T11:21:00.002+10:30

I've had a pretty rough week, but found this block very satisfying and quick. No agonizing over fabric or color choices, just a quick dig through the bin, and presto! One more block done.

Block 4 and 53

2010-11-21T14:11:00.002+10:30

Block 4 Has a Bee in the Centre

Block 53
I rather like this one. Totally different but still a star. The next block I need to do is Block 7 which just by chance happens to be another star and then the dreaded Block 8 which I have successfully avoided since the beginning when it was issued as a challenge. I have been making this quilt since November 2008. There was a while when it was on the backburner but now I am enjoying it with renewed enthusiasm.
Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.
Cheers Lynne

Blocks 85, 25 & 45 - Tazzie

2010-11-21T12:24:00.004+10:30

I've been a busy bee this weekend working on my NI blocks.

First was block 85 - using some 'new to me' cheddar fabric. Even though the blocks are often drawn up differently, I mostly change the orientation of the triangles to give the blocks a little more symmetry.

And here's block 25. Another odd looking one for sure. I don't mind if I never see half inch finished HST's again :-)

My personal challenge - block 45. It looked like the easier of the three 'lone star' style blocks in the book. I guess it wasn't too hard, just fiddly - but I can now confidently say that I'm not looking forward to block 44 in the least!

If I be a good girl and get my chores done today, I'll allow myself some more time in the sewing room this afternoon. It'd be so nice to get some more checked off the list :-)

Nearly Insane Block 48

2010-11-19T14:30:00.002+10:30

I have finished one of the blocks for the week :-)
Fussy cut the red and the black edge is fussy-cut from the same fabric. The black star and the gorgoeus yellow are fabrics I bought form the Quilted Crow while we were in Tasmania on our second honeymoon.
This quilt will be a journey of many memories. I am having fun. Cheers Lynne

Blocks 83 & 39 - Tazzie

2010-11-16T20:45:00.002+10:30

Here is block 83 - I just finished it this evening. I really love putting flying geese units together, so this block was blissful :-)

And here is block 39, finished on Sunday evening. I have only the tiniest pieces of the yellow left. It's a Smithsonian print from a REALLY long time ago. Donna from CA kindly gifted me with a piece, so I've been treating it like gold dust!

Block 40 A Little of the Adelaide Collection Lynne

2010-11-14T11:41:00.004+10:30

Block 40 Features fabric I wanted to use from the Adelaide Collection (Bird in the centre and the 4 corners) Adelaide is where I live and I thought it most appropriate now that this gorgeous range just come out thanks to
the Lovely Michele Hill and Jason Yenter.
Just so love the Serpentine too. I have to confess I did not even look at the way the block was presented in the book this time. Nor did I plan this block apart from really wanting to use the birds in the middle and they only just fit and the cornerstones of gorgeous from the Adelaide collection . Influenced only slightly by recently acquiring the gorgeous serpentine. The rest of the block I just let talk to me as I went along :-)

Block 2 (my personal weekly challenge as I need to make a few to fill the gaps so that I can start to sash my blocks) features a sewing machine. Fabric again thanks to
Jan from Bemused. I was lucky to win this fabric last year. The 'L' came from the same FQ.
Remember the blocks are set on point so the sewing machine another squeeze fitted just but I am pleased with it. The cornerstones are straight it is just that I photograph on a board and cannot pin the flat so the edge is angled up
Looking forward to next weeks challenge on the Nearly Insane Yahoo group . My Personal Challenge for next week will be block 4. If I tell you all I will have to make sure I finish it or should I say both.
Cheers Lynne

Block 84 - Tazzie

2010-11-12T21:47:00.004+10:30

Here is my block 84 - quite an easy one really - so I was surprised I hadn't tackled it earlier. The light floral fabric is one of my favourites - love those Civil War Dressing Gown prints.

Blocks 26 & 36 - Tazzie

2010-11-08T13:37:00.004+10:30

Two more blocks checked off my list over the weekend.

Block 26, very easy to make with simple rotary cutting and piecing. I'm so low on the leafy fabric in the outer triangles. I'll have to try and find some more :-)

I don't mind confessing that I find a couple of the blocks in this quilt are a little ugly - and this block is one of them. And it probably doesn't help that the brown fabric I used isn't too attractive either. But it's made now, and I've started sewing the row together, so it's staying!

I hope I can stay motivated to make these little blocks, I missed them so!

Nearly Insane Block 1

2010-11-07T20:39:00.005+10:30

Nearly Insane Block 1 (33 pieces)This is the 49th Block I have made.
Taryn that is your little spinning top in the centre. I have not made Block 2 yet so that might have to be the next one. Wish I could say I got lots of sewing done this weekend but I did manage a few hours so that was nice.
Cheers Lynne

Blocks 24 & 81 - Tazzie

2010-11-06T23:03:00.002+10:30

I've been so inspired seeing the NI Yahoo Group blocks being posted, as well as the lovely work that we're seeing here, that I finally got my act together and stitched up a couple of blocks.

This is block 24 that I just finished this evening. The brick red fabric in the flying geese units came from a Moda scrap bag, what a lucky find! And the print with the shells I have had for the very longest time - probably ten years. It's a favourite.

And here is block 81 which I finished during the week. It's fun seeing the gaps closing in my list of completed blocks. I think my finished total is 67 now.

Block #38 - Ann

2010-11-01T10:46:00.003+10:30

Not a great color combination, but luckily it will be just one of many blocks in a very busy quilt. Since I'm not using any particular theme or style of fabrics, this will truly be a scrappy quilt.

Nearly Insane Block 6 and 76

2010-10-31T19:56:00.003+10:30

Block 6 was the Challenger for the week. Could not resist putting the L in the centre. Thankyou to Jan of Bemused. This was part of the fabric that I won on her blog last year. It fits perfectly. I know the wattle is not repro but it is so perfect.

This is Block 76 and has been in the making for weeks. Somehow on the backburner while I was distracted by Blind Mans Fancy (which I was still working on today) and my Little Bears Paws. The block is square just not photographed square. I have now made 49 blocks and am Half way :-) Will need to find some self discipline and get back to regularly making them won’t I.
Have a great week all Cheers Lynne

Block #26 - Ann

2010-10-11T12:20:00.003+10:30

I really love the colors in this block. I started with the corner triangles circles print, then picked other fabrics to complement it. No cutting mishaps this time, but with two weeks of vacation (and the week to catch up after vacation) it took me a long time to finish it.

AWOL

2010-09-21T19:18:00.001+09:30

Just a quick note to let you all know that I haven't fallen from the earth! My work commitments have been crazy lately and I haven't had much time for stitching. Promise I'll be back with some NI content soon.

Has anyone been working on their blocks? Wanna share?? *s*

Block 19 - Tazzie

2010-08-22T11:20:00.002+09:30

Here is my block 19. I made it a little differently to the one in the book, instead of cutting out individual squares, I made the ones that were adjacent and the same colour into rectangles. Hmmm ... did that make any sense? Well, I'm sure the picture tells the story :-)

Sixty four blocks checked off the list, it really feels like I'm getting somewhere now!

Block #9 - Ann

2010-08-12T10:12:00.002+09:30

I started this block way back in May. I had all but two of the outer sawteeth sections attachedd, when I trimmed off the orange on the seam line instead of 1/4" away. Rats! I had to take off and remake two orange borders and two sawteeth sections, and then put it all back together again. During that time I also had to make a baby quilt and finish a couple others. And I've still got two more baby quilts to finish so Nearly Insane progress will continue to be slow.

Block 42 - Tazzie

2010-08-09T09:13:00.002+09:30

Because I was on a bit of a NI roll last night, I decided to tackle a block that looks a little scary in the book - block 42.

It wasn't really hard at all, certainly not compared to some of the other blocks we've had to face. There are a couple of points I'm tempted to fiddle with, but I'm not convinced I can get them much better, so it's probably best to leave them alone.

I think I have two more blocks to make and I can add the next row to the quilt. This project is really growing!

Blocks 20 & 30 - Tazzie

2010-08-08T12:54:00.005+09:30

My goodness I was glad over the past 24 hours to have a little time to work on my Nearly Insane blocks - my own stitching time has been scarce lately.

This is my block 20 - I have skipped over 19 (I'm not sure why) and gone directly to this one. The little green triangles in the centre were cut-offs from the braids I pieced the other day. Feels so virtuous to use such tiny scraps.

And here is block 30. I really enjoyed this one. The pink is a Dear Jane print, and this is it's first appearance in my quilt. I will definitely use it again, it's very cute. I think my block count is 62 now. Slowly, slowly I'm getting there.

Has anyone else been working on their blocks? Don't be shy, we'd love to see them!

Block 94 - Tazzie

2010-07-28T22:03:00.003+09:30

Just a quickie post tonight - here is my block 94, I made it up this evening :-)

Yay for my last triangle block. I'm not sure about my colour selection tonight, must be the Krispy Kreme doughnut I had earlier - I'm on a little bit of a sugar rush maybe. I'm sure in the big scheme of the quilt, this block will look entirely wonderful.

Here's hoping I can get a couple more blocks made during the next week or so - I have my fingers crossed :-)

Block 86 - Tazzie

2010-07-26T09:04:00.003+09:30

Finally! At last I've had the opportunity to put a NI block together, it seems like it has been such a long time.

This one is block 86, and not a tricky one at all. I only have one more triangle block to make now. Here's hoping I can get back on track and get some more blocks made up soon.

And just a quick housekeeping note. I know I haven't mentioned this in the past, but I was kind of hoping it would be self evident. Since we all have our own blogs, I'd really prefer it if this blog could be limited to NI posts. I'd really appreciate it, thanks :-)

Travel

2010-07-19T22:25:00.003+09:30

Antiquing Saturday I found two postcards from my husband's granddaddy's motor court in Sumter! What a score; we are thrilled. He had nineteen cabins

and a restaurant and gas station.

Granddaddy Evans was quite an entrepreneur. Not only was he a truck farmer who grew vegetables at his farm in Providence, SC and sold them in Cola at the Farmer's Market but he had a country store next to his house. Then he started this motor court in Sumter. And I recently learned he owned a barber shop in Orangeburg, SC (and he wasn't even a barber).

Granddaddy did all this and put four kids through college (all became teachers) during the Depression.

I have always wanted to stay in one of these cabin style motor courts.

Have any of you? Do you even want to?

For Kimberly and Mary Bailey.....I did buy other post cards and will be posting them on the blog in days to come :) I told the dealer I like the ones with writing on them; he does not. :)

Any body else out there with old post cards?

I am going to my brother's for a few days this week....see ya when I get back!

Nearly Insane Blocks 1 & 2 - Susannasquilts

2010-07-19T09:49:00.001+09:30

At long last the start of my Nearly Insane Blocks. I have managed to make Blocks 1 & 2.
Not too good on the photography so I have scanned them. I Paper Foundation Pieced them, and still managed to get them a little off.. then remembered the great tip from Liz Lois in the book, was to treat each section as a mini quilt and measure as you go. I cut the last border a little larger, then cut it down to measure the exact size needed.
Must get off this computer and make another one!!
Cheers
Sue

Antique Quilts Etc...

2010-07-10T23:16:00.005+09:30

What do quilters do with their "spare" time? Let's see.....

Watch Fons & Porter's tv show, For the Love of Quilting....

Read quilt blogs for ideas, encouragement, inspiration......

I just checked in at http://www.stellarubinantiques.com/ to see some awesome antique quilts, gorgeous jewelry and other art works.

I am always amazed at the antique quilts found by other quilters at antique malls etc... The ones I find are usually of the recent polyester (a quilting no no) variety, are torn, or worn, and way overpriced.

So far the only antique quilts I own are from my mother's attic and I don't know their provenance :( Mother's mother was a "seamstress" so I can only hope she made at least one of these quilts. They are very well done. The pictures at the top show them.

The tiny scrap on the little side table between the two red wing chairs is one I bought at an antique mall. Tiny and cheap!

Yesterday, girlfriend Rita, aka Lucy, came over for a day of sewing and catching up. I'll show you all the gifts she brought back for me from her trip to West Va. in my next post.

Meanwhile I am off to McLeod Farms Peach Festival in McBee. Our quilt guild was asked to do some quilting to show the folks who come by. I will be embroidering the second block for my catalicious quilt. It is to be a Christmas gift for a cat loving non quilting friend.

What do you do in your "Spare Time"?

Block 87 - Tazzie

2010-07-01T22:12:00.002+09:30

After such a tricky block, here is an easy one. This is block 87 - and very simple to just rotary cut and piece.

This is 58th block I've made, so it means I have 40 more to go now. Wow, they're really adding up.

And in fabulous news, we have two new contributors to our Blog. Donna and Sue - welcome to you both. I very much look forward to seeing your NI progress.

I should have plenty of sewing time on my hands shortly - as of this weekend my kids are on school holidays for two weeks - and I am fortunate not to work during school holidays. I'll be Mum's taxi for sure, but I know I'll find time in the sewing room!

Block 18 - Tazzie

2010-06-28T10:45:00.003+09:30

Can you imagine how thrilled I am to finally finish this block? It was tackled in spurts over four days. Honestly, it was too fiddly just to crank it out all at once - all 229 pieces.

You can see the little pins all around the place - I had to pin it to my ironing board once again to get it to stay flat enough to photograph.

I'm not sure which block I'll work on next, but which ever it is, it'll feel like a breeze after this one!

(Almost There) Block 18 - Tazzie

2010-06-27T13:31:00.001+09:30

Here's where I'm up to with my block 18 - it's currently sized 5 1/2" square. I just have the final round of half square triangles etc. to add all around the edge. It'll add another inch to the finished size of the block - and add 84 to the count of pieces in the block.

I had to pin the block to my ironing board to get it to sit flat as there are so many seams in the back. I can't even imagine what it will be like to quilt!

Really though, this block isn't hard as such - it's just really tedious, and I seem to remember Barbara having the same sentiment. Each row has so many pieces making up such a small section that they seem to take forever. And something I did notice is that in the line drawing, some of the triangles are facing the wrong way, even compared to the block the author made up. I've attempted to remedy this in my block.

Hopefully I'll have this block finished by the end of today - red and green half square triangles and yellow squares await!

(Start of) Block 18 - Tazzie

2010-06-25T14:38:00.003+09:30

I've just started block 18 - and here's where I'm up to. I'll need some real fortitude to tackle the rest of it - this is where the fun will begin. I'll keep you posted.

And in other news - a big welcome to our newest member - Kathryn (kcaie). I hope you have fun on your NI journey, and look forward to you sharing your blocks with us.

Block 79 - Tazzie

2010-06-23T18:24:00.003+09:30

Finally I've been able to put another block together. This one is block 79.

I have been on a deadline with my Turning Four-T quilt, so all other projects had to be put on the back burner. It was really hard not to pick up the NI blocks, but time really wasn't on my side.

Because it had been a little while since I worked on one of these blocks, I chose a relatively easy one - and there aren't too many of those left any more.

To put my next row together, I need to make up block 18. I am nervous about it, so wish me luck people! :-)

Oops!

2010-06-17T22:03:00.003+09:30

Hi there to Kathryn who posted a comment recently about joining the NI Fans blog. Your comment has come up with no email address so I'm not able to get in touch with you personally. If you would like to email me, I can send you the permissions to join the blog. Look forward to hearing from you!
Tazzie
:-)

Block 28 & 96 - Tazzie

2010-06-11T09:18:00.002+09:30

Sadly for me, this past week I still have not had the opportunity to stitch on my NI blocks - I'm on a deadline, and attention must be paid! I'm missing these tiny blocks like mad, but fortunately I have found two I have neglected to blog about, so I can share them with you now.

Here is block 28. From what I recall, it was quite a fiddly one to put together. I think I foundation pieced it in certain sections, and simply rotary cut and pieced other sections.

The green fabric is one of the fq's I purchased while in the USA, and the red was from Donna's scrap bag. Good times!
And this is block 96. Many pieces from Donna's scrap bag once again. The coral coloured fabric is an oldie but a goodie - it was a left over from my Dear Jane quilt. I have no idea how it came into my stash, I would hazard a guess that Linda sent it to me. She's responsible for most of my reproduction fabrics of old.

Hopefully it won't be long before I can get back into the NI piecing. I'll check back in soon. xox

Block 88 & 97 - Tazzie

2010-06-04T22:33:00.003+09:30

Here are two blocks I made recently (but not in the past week) and for whatever reason didn't get around to posting.

This is block 88 - a very cute one with a little needle turn applique thrown in for good measure. It will be interesting to see if there is enough contrast between the light fabric and the sashing strips. I won't be changing the block in any case :-)

And this is block 97 - it's a nice easy one. I just love that seashell fabric. I've had it for a very long time, it's from the Ann Robinson collection, and must be at least 10 years old - probably more. I see that Patchwork Rose has used it in a couple of her blocks too. Super fun!

We seem to have lost a couple of girls along the way here. I definitely know life can get in the way and stitching can take a back seat. Please check in and let us know how you're doing. Thinking of you! xox

Block 93 - Tazzie

2010-05-30T22:37:00.002+09:30

Here is my block 93. It's the only NI action I've seen all weekend. Lucky for me, tomorrow is a day off too, so I'll be able to get a look at another block or two.

I really like the faux crazy quilt fabric in the outer triangles. I will have to get a little more of it into the quilt before I'm done.

This is my 55th block, and I have a feeling there may be a few I've neglected to share here. I'll check them all out when I get the chance and see which ones I've missed. Happy stitching everyone!

Block 23 & 41 - Tazzie

2010-05-28T10:54:00.003+09:30

Isn't it amazing how fast a week can go? I truly cannot account for my time these past few days, I'm sure work and small people have a lot to do with it :-)

Here are a couple of my recent blocks. The pink one was the last one I needed to add the fifth row to my quilt top.

This is block 23 - love the pink fabric. The thin red pieces were fun to work with - seam allowances were so important. Even being a little bit out meant the strips looked too small or large. I did unpick a couple of pieces for accuracy.

This basket is block 41 - and it was fun to have a bit of applique to play with. I love needle turn applique, so that was the technique I used. I was fretting that the triangles weren't lined up well enough in the basket, but it doesn't really show so much. Overall it's a very cute block.

Block 35 & 95 - Tazzie

2010-05-23T22:41:00.004+09:30

Raise your hand if you thought I'd be able to resist making another block or two over this weekend? No-one? Well, you'd be right. I made up four, and here are two of them:

First up is block 95 - Isn't it fun how the two sides of this block bear no resemblance to each other. I found the cute orange print among the wonderful scraps of fabric Donna stealthily gave to me while I stayed with her in the US. I really love it!

And here is block 35 - I quickly made it up this afternoon. A little more of the orange fabric, and some other favourite prints. I don't think the orange will be making another appearance in the quilt - I think I've used all the precious scrap up now.

Do you see the four blue pieces there? The pattern on the fabric and the way it was cut, and then I've put similar pieces on each side of the block. I didn't realise until I photographed the block that the print had worked out like that. I'd prefer to have one of each piece on each side, but they're staying, and it can be another of the quirks in my quilt :-)

I'll share the other two blocks a little later on. And though I really need to get busy making lunches for tomorrow and doing some last minute tidying, I'm really dying to get back in the sewing room. I'll resist - tomorrow is another day!