Tag Archives: Christmas gifts

Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal–Does the Fun Have to End?

Does the fun have to end? That is a very good question. I’ve been giving that question some thought and decided that the answer is no, not here on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats. Especially because of what I learned today. So read on and find out how you can be part of the ongoing fun. But first there’s some things still left in this stocking.

Seriously, this stocking is packed. It’s kind of like the Tardis, for those of you who watch Dr. Who on TV; it’s small on the outside but big on the inside. Let’s empty it today.

Every quilter needs a little jewelry and some candy in their stocking. This little stocking doesn’t disappoint in that department.

Now for a closer look at each goody:

Quilter’s Helper

Since every Christmas stocking needs a bit of candy, why not pair it with some fun. Moda has a free printable template for a Quilter’s Emergency Kit (same idea with the candy) and can be downloaded here. Since my printer was not printing in color, I had to resort to plan B and used the wording as seen here at Quiltville. I think this would be really cute for the gals in your quilting guild.

Thimble Pincushion Necklace

This is one tiny pincushion. It doubles nicely as a piece of jewelry. Wear this at your next guild meeting and all the gals will be eyeing it and want one for their own. It’s easy to make.

I snuck this one into the stocking after seeing Sarah’s post here that had a pic of one. I knew I wanted to make one to include. You can find the original tutorial on Sew Many Ways here. Since, I made it a bit differently, here’s a quick peek of my process so you can make one, too.

Materials Needed:

one 2.5″ square of fabric
one thimble
one very small wooden bead, pony bead, or small pieces of cardboard that fits all the way to the bottom of the thimble and extends about 1/3 of the way up (this offers support to the pincushion and gives you something to put glue on so that it will be secure.
one jewelry jump ring (I used a 1/2 inch, measured across inside edges, key ring that I had in my craft supplies) Check out your local craft store for jewelry making supplies or order online.
approx. 37″ leather lacing, a necklace chain, or ribbon
crushed walnut shells (see this post for further explanation of this item and to see how you can make a crushed walnut shell dispensing bottle)
a small bit of poly fiber fill or stuffing
heavy duty thread such as hand quilting or upholstery (while you can use other thread, I find these are the best when gathering by hand as they don’t break as easy)
hot glue

Directions:

Drill a small hole near the edge of the thimble.

My husband, Tu-Na Helper, did this for me. I don’t do power tools.

Insert and then secure either the jewelry split ring or other jewelry finding. It’s that circle thing that connects the bauble with the chain or in my case the leather lacing.

Trace and cut out a 2″ circle from the fabric square. Hand sew a gathering stitch about 1/2″ from the circle’s edge. I find making a knot at the beginning helped when tightening but DO NOT KNOT the end as you want to be able to pull it tight to gather.

Pull the threads, gathering the fabric into a little bowl and fill with crushed walnut shells. This bowl is small. Don’t overstuff this one.

Top with some poly fiber fill, pull tight, knot, and sew the opening closed. Use your fingers to form and shape the cushion to fit the thimble. I needed to trim the extra fabric on the bottom so it would fit well.

Check the bead for size in the thimble. Add the cushion to see how it looks and if you need to adjust the cushion’s shape by molding it with your fingers. The alternative to using a bead is using lots of hot glue on the bottom.

Glue the wood bead into bottom of the thimble. Then add a dab of glue on top of the bead and a bit around the inside edges of the thimble. Insert the cushion and press, holding it for a few seconds.

String the leather lacing through the ring and tie a knot at the end.

Now take a selfie.

I am not very good at taking selfies. Either my face was in the picture and the thimble was not or the thimble was in the picture and my face not. I opted to include this one.

This wee one is so very pretty!!!

Supplies we don’t buy often enough for ourselves.

Throughout the year, I use my 50% and 60% off coupons at JoAnn Fabrics (no affiliation). If I don’t need something for myself, I buy some extra little things for gifts. Here’s two quilting tools that always seem to need replacing but no one ever throws theirs away. Do you use seam rippers and pins when they are dull and bent? Your quilting friends will appreciate receiving packs of new ones. Thinking ahead and taking advantage of coupons and discounts at any of your favorite stores really can help the Christmas budget.

Ring Pincushion

I followed the tutorial found on You Can Call Me Gwen here except:

I started with a 3 inch circle. The construction of the cushion part is the same as the cushion for the Pincushion pail found here and hand sewed the gathering stitch 1/4″ from the edge on the right side of the fabric.
I used E 6000 (found at Walmart, no affiliation) to glue a ring base onto the outside top of a soda pop bottle cap instead of using elastic as in Gwen’s tutorial. E 6000 is a strong, fast-drying glue and will set in about 10 minutes. Ring bases can be bought at a craft store and I recommend getting the adjustable adult ones. Several years ago, I ordered a bunch of them online. They arrived a month later probably on a slow boat from overseas. Although they are adjustable and the gal on the phone assured me they were adult size, they still are quite small. However, it fits my pinky without adjusting and works very well as a Pinky Ring Pincushion. But I’ve seen them fit some women’s ring fingers. So it might fit yours. These could also be strung through a chain or ribbon and worn around the neck.
I filled the cushion with crushed walnut shells and a bit of fiber fil to hold in the shells.
I used hot glue on the inside bottom and around the interior sides of the cap to glue the cushion into the bottle cap.
I hot glued on a small silk flower.

I will put together a tutorial of making these ring pincushions using my methods. I just ran out of time for this hop. But Christmas time, whether it comes in July or December, is hectic and there’s never enough time to finish everything one starts.

July 14-25, 2017. Hosted by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict.

The 12 Days of Christmas in July continues today with:

Tuesday, July 25th, 2017

We Wish You a Merry Christmas!—Day 12 of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah has a list of all the bloggers that are doing a final wrap-up of this season, too. She’s provided a linky so you can showcase your Santa’s Trip Around the World if you were sewing along. You don’t have to be finished, just show what you’ve done.

Christina’s Handicrafts Christina has been dabbling in small pieces, too. She’s got a couple of super cute projects to show. You might like to try making them, too.

Abyquilts Stars are an important part of Christmas and Aby has one to show and share. Star quilts will soon be twinkling all over blogland thanks to Aby and her free pattern.

Kathy’s Kwilts and More Kathy’s back with more to show and she’s even brought a guest. She’s helping her granddaughter sew a special gift for her doll. Kathy’s extending her love of sewing as well as her love of giving. That’s one lucky little girl.

Remember to leave comments on each of these 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop posts so you can qualify to win some fabric giveaways of Tula Pink’s new holiday line, Holiday Homies, generously donated by Free Spirit Fabrics!!! You have through July 26th to leave comments on all of the 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop posts. But don’t worry, blog posts will remain available for a long time if you need to come back to check the tutorials or read them again and again.

Please note: Sarah has notified us that she needs to delay the announcement of winners until August 4th due to a family emergency. Winners will be notified by email then. I will be posting a list, too, as soon as I see it.

Here’s an updated picture of the prizes you could be winning if you are commenting on each of the blog posts.

Holiday Homies by Tula Pink from Free Spirit Fabrics.

I posted my 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop post on Monday, July 14, 2017 where I showed how to make a mini quilted stocking and a wreath that kids can make. Click here if you are looking for it. It also contains links that will take you directly to each blogger’s specific 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop post to make it more convenient for you to comment or find that project long after the hop is over.

My first stocking stuffer reveal (Pincushion in a Pail) happened here, the second stocking stuffer reveal (Strawberry Pincushion) happened here, and the third stocking stuffer reveal (Pretty Pillow Pincushion) happened here. Here’s a picture recap of what I’ve created for this hop:

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

Ring Wreath that kids can do.

The Pincushion Pail is 2.25″ tall and 2″ wide at the top.

Not including the leaves, this strawberry is 1.5″ long.

Pillow Pincushion front. 3.5″ square.

What I Learned Today:

This is my 111th post.
I now have over 320 followers having added 25 more this week.
Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats has had over 10,000 visitors since its first post April 22, 2016.
My 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop post, Tu-Na Quilts: On the Fourth Day of Christmas, My True Love Gave to Me…, published on Monday, July 17, 2017 and was my most viewed post to date. My blog has had over 23,000 views meaning that visitors are reading more posts than the first one they come to.
I have had visitors from 56 countries.
Readers have left 1,524 comments. I am having difficulty replying to them all. It may take me some time yet. I have read and appreciated every one of them!
I think those are all pretty good statistics for being only 15 months old! I am humbled and honored.
So it’s time for a celebration and a great big thank you!

~~Giveaway Alert:~~

This giveaway is now closed.The Random Number generator picked #2.

Random number generation / Random Numbers

Generate number between 1 and 110 = 2

This was verified by Tu-Na Helper that I did this correctly. Congratulations to Jean McKinstry.

Jean McKinstry July 25, 2017 at 3:03 am

I met you during the 12 days of Christmas Blog hop, and you are now on my blog list, I follow you with Blogger.

I will be contacting you for your shipping info and mailing the stocking and all the goodies to you. Thank you to everyone who stopped and commented. This was so much fun I’ll have to do it again.

I’ve had way too much fun to just let it end. So as a thank you to my followers and visitors, I would like to do my own little giveaway for THIS STOCKING AND ALL OF ITS CONTENTS!!!

To enter:

Leave one comment on this post through August 1st. This giveaway is now closed. One winner will be drawn and notified by email. Please make sure you leave your email in the comment form. I will update this post with the winner’s first name as well as write a separate post after connecting with them by email. International entries are welcome.
My followers, new and old, can have an extra entry by leaving one more comment on this post letting me know how you follow me. If you are new here, just check my sidebar to follow me by Bloglovin, WordPress, or email and then let me know in a comment which way you chose.

Question: What gift did you receive or give that left the most memorable impression on you or the receiver? For me, not counting the Purple Thang story that I shared here, the most memorable gifts were the two quilts that my mom and I secretly worked on together and gifted last Christmas. I was not only able to spend lots of time with my mom but also produced two very beautiful quilts. I still need to write a blog post about them so I won’t say anything more.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Linking to:

Main Crush Monday at Cooking Up Quilts
Monday Making at Love Laugh Quilt
Moving it Forward Monday at Em’s Scrapbag
Linky Tuesday at Freemotion on the River
Let’s Bee Social at Sew Fresh Quilts
Wait Loss Wednesday at The Inquiring Quilter
Midweek Makers at Quilt Fabrication
TGIFF Hosted by Celtic Thistle Stitches this week
Finished or Not Friday at Busy Hands Quilt
Can I Get a Whoop Whoop? at Confessions of a Fabric Addict
Show Off Saturday at Sew Can She
Oh, Scrap at Quilting is More Fun than Housework

Tu-Na Quilts: Ding Dong Merrily on High–Day Eleven of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

12 Replies

Ode to the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

Choirs of sewing machines continue to hum all across the lands

While quilters and sewists are busily laying out their plans

For filling their lengthy Christmas lists from all of their labors

To wrap, bag, or stuff in red stockings and hand to the neighbors.

by: Tu-Na Quilts

July 14-25, 2017 Hosted by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas all over Blogland. Are you still wondering why or what? Check out this hop for Christmas inspiration for everyone on your gift list.

Join these bloggers on this Eve because tomorrow’s the last day of this year’s 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop. But don’t worry, everyone’s posts will be available for a long time so you can come back and look at them again and again.

Monday, July 24th, 2017

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah walks us through the next step of Santa’s Trip Around the World Quilt Along if you’re sewing along. If not, you can always start one and finish in time for Christmas. After completing today’s assignment, the quilt top will be finished. Probably not mine, yet, but it will get there, eventually.

Anja Quilts If you can’t see the forest for the trees, head over to Anja’s to create your own forest of Christmas trees. This table runner looks like it would grow mighty quick.

PickingandStitching Judy’s showcasing the easy quilt as you go method on her table runner. If you’re looking for a quick project that you need to get done TODAY, stop on over to take a look. While you’re there, take a look at the picture of the back of the pinwheel block to see those gorgeous spun seams. That’s truly a work of art behind the scenes.

A Dream and a Stitch Jen made a real sweet treat to hang on the wall or door. This is one way to enjoy some Christmas candy and not worry about cavities or calories.

Here’s a sneak peek at the prizes thirteen people will be winning just by commenting on each of the 12 Days of Christmas in July participating blog hop posts.

Holiday Homies by Tula Pink from Free Spirit Fabrics.

I posted my 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop post on Monday, July 14, 2017 where I showed how to make a mini quilted stocking and a ring wreath that kids can make. Click here if you are looking for it. It also contains links that will take you directly to each blogger’s 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop post to make it more convenient for you to comment or find that project long after the hop is over.

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

Ring Wreath that kids can do.

The Pincushion Pail is 2.25″ tall and 2″ wide at the top.

Not including the leaves, this strawberry is 1.5″ long.

3.5″ Pretty Pillow Pincushion

Jean, who blogs at All Points of the Compass, was quite smitten with that Pretty Pillow Pincushion. She wrote a poem about it and shared it with me. She’s given me permission to share it with you. Who needs to read my pincushion tutorial when you could just read her poem!

The Pincushion

This is the tiniest wee item,

you’ll be sure to find it all fun.

Then before you can say “ Woohoo”,

it’s finished, even quilting all done.

Now go and sort out your fabrics,

You won’t need them larger than SMALL.

Sort them out into order,

The shorter, the tinier, the tall.

A pinwheel of only TWO inches,

that’s the first part, the true centre square;

The borders just go on like magic,

a tad more than 4 inches, you’re there.

Add some batting and then do the quilting,

such short rows, a real pretty sight.

Interface and then add the backing,

at this stage it’s all going right.

Sew round the edges, leave a gap, trim the corners,

turn it out and fill so it’s firm.

Add stuffing and sew up the opening,

to test it, just stick in a pin!!!

But remember, these are only the words,

Save some time, and make sure you’re thinking

Before pinning and cutting, and sewing it up,

It won’t quite be done in an inkling.

But the many minutes and hours that you spend

Will reward you so very well.

Then you’ll show it off often,

And have a story to tell.

So sit back and relax, look with great delight

A design made for us all, thank Karen so much,

She is a whizz at the needle, the words and the photos as well,

And we can all be so thankful for her magic touch.

With apologies to any poet who can do better.

This was a fabulous tutorial, I smiled, I enjoyed it SO much.

Hugs from a Sunday night down in New Zealand.

Jean. ( you deserve a huge hug, some XXX, and a glass or two of bubbly) !!!

Thanks, Jean. I was touched and honored that you took the time to write me a poem about my work! Your poem is perfect!

I’ve been having a lot of fun here at Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats revealing that stocking loot. There’s one day left on the hop but the stocking still holds quite a bit. So plan to stop by tomorrow to see what else I could possibly have stuffed in there. And then the big question is: What does Tu-Na plan to do with it all?

Coming soon on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats:

Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End? (Do you see the s on the end of Stuffers? I bet you know what that means.)

What I Learned Today:

Sharing my cold with my husband seems to have done the trick; I am feeling much better.
I need a longer list of toddler activities. I got to babysit my 2 year grandson for about 4 hours today (my son, his wife and this little guy are living with us for a few weeks while they wait to get into their new home). By the time 30 minutes had gone by, we had done just about everything on my list of things to keep him busy.
Treadmills make a good bowling alley for toddlers.
Tu-Na makes a good bowling pin setter. My 2 year old grandson brought me to my knees. I was on my hands and knees at the front of the treadmill setting and resetting the bowling pins for him. He had fun until the knees complained—mine.

Question: Do you celebrate Christmas on Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, both, or do you celebrate all the way through New Year’s Day? Now that almost all of our children have married, we have to share them with their in-laws over the holidays. They’ve all worked out a schedule so everyone is on the same calendar. One year we all gather for Christmas around New Year’s Day and the next year we gather for Christmas around Christmas Day.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Tu-Na Quilts: Santa Claus is Coming–Day Nine of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

9 Replies

July 14-25, 2017 Hosted by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict. Christmas inspiration provided by dozens of bloggers.

Mrs. Claus and all the elves may be hard at work at the North Pole but these bloggers have been busy in their sewing rooms. Come check out what projects the ones listed below have created to help you be inspired for some merry Christmas making of your own.

Saturday, July 22nd, 2017

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah gives the next sewing assignment for Santa’s Trip Around the World Quilt Along which is a repeat of the past two days. She’s also found some great kid’s Christmas craft ideas which are fun for kids of any age including those of us who are young at heart.

Devoted Quilter Leanne’s been freely sewing with her machine and has stitched up some quilty tree ornaments. Bonus: you can practice your free-motion quilting at the same time.

Kathy’s Kwilts and More Kathy shows how easy making a pillow cover is. You might be able to stitch up several in an afternoon following her directions unless you decide to use one to lay down and take a nap.

All Points of the Compass Jean’s post is really a hoot! She’s sewing some parliament members that are looking really wide-eyed and fun. Who wouldn’t want to sew one on the front of a bag? Who wouldn’t want to stitch one for a banner or flag? Who wouldn’t want to receive a pillow cover with one on the front?

Remember to leave comments on each of the Christmas blog hop posts as listed above so you can qualify to win some fabric giveaways of Tula Pink’s new holiday line, Holiday Homies, generously donated by Free Spirit Fabrics!!! You have until July 26th to comment on each blog.

Please note: Sarah needs to delay the announcement of winners until August 4th due to a family emergency. Winners will be notified by email then. I will be posting a list, too, when I receive the info.

I posted my 12 Days of Christmas in July post earlier this week. Click here if you are looking for it. I showed how to make these two projects pictured below: a mini quilted Christmas stocking and a kid’s mini wreath craft. You will also find a complete listing of all the participating blogs on the hop with updated links that will take you directly to their 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop posts once they are published. This might be helpful if you have to go back and comment for the giveaway or look at directions again for all the projects you want to make.

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

Ring Wreath that kids can do.

I then revealed two of the surprises this stocking holds.

The Pincushion Pail is 2.25″ tall and 2″ wide at the top.

Not including the leaves, this strawberry is 1.5″ long.

You can find the tutorial for the pail pincushion here and the strawberry pincushion here.

Coming soon on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats:

Sunday, July 23rd, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Third Stocking Stuffer Reveal—How Much Can It Hold?
Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End?

What I Learned Today:

Question: Who fills your stockings? Santa or no Santa? What other giving traditions do you observe? Usually Santa and Mrs. Claus were up late finishing the gift wrapping and sneaking stuff under the tree and into the packages. My husband and I were very tired on Christmas morning. I miss those days. One year, our family hosted a Christmas party and hired a Santa to come. Before he arrived, the kids painted cookies which I posted about here. It was a lot of fun for our three year old. Now our kids and their spouses exchange names and make or buy something at a really good deal for that person. The kids have been very creative as their gifts have been quite impressive.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Tu-Na Quilts: Tu-Na Quilts: The Second Stocking Stuffer Reveal—You Mean There’s More?

19 Replies

Yes, there is!

I’ve already revealed this cute little pincushion here on Monday’s post. I made this stocking as one of the projects on my 12 Days of Christmas in July blog post and filled it with lots of goodies that make good stocking stuffers for sewists and quilters. If you missed the stocking tutorial, you can find it here.

The Pincushion Pail is 2.25″ tall and 2″ wide at the top.

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

It’s time to see what else is hiding in this stocking.

I made the berry shape using this simple tutorial from A Quilter’s Mission found here. She just cuts a circle out of fabric and cuts the circle in half. I used a 5″ circle because I didn’t want a huge strawberry. This size makes a 1.5″ long berry, not counting the leaves. I think this shape makes a nicer, rounder berry.

However, I used the free pattern for the leaves found here at The Sewing Loft. You can download and print the free pattern by clicking on the download button located at the end of her blog post.

Since I’ve already given you two links to tutorials for these strawberries, I won’t go into much detail here. But I do want to include a few construction tips if you decide you want to make a batch of these juicy, yummy strawberry pincushions for yourself or those on your list.

I used quilting cotton for the berry and felt for the leaves.
I suggest making more than one pincushion since you’ll have gathered all the supplies anyway. This way you’ll have some to keep and some to give away. Besides, if you are using the circle like I did, you’ll have an extra half circle anyway so you might as well make two.
This berry patch is just getting started. I’ve sewn the only seam required by a sewing machine.
Sew the running or gathering stitch with heavy duty thread, such as hand quilting or upholstery thread, on the RIGHT side of the fabric. This allows you to gather it nicely and tie it tightly when done.
I used two strands of hand quilting thread to run a gathering stitch about 1/4″ from the edge. I tied a secure knot at the beginning only. Leave an 8″ tail at the beginning. If you are careful you don’t even have to remove the needle during the pulling stage.
Make yourself a Crushed Walnut Shell Dispensing Bottle. See this post for instructions on how I turned a mustard bottle into this handy tool.
This bottle really works well when filling tight spaces.
Once you think you have enough crushed walnut shells in your strawberry, use your finger to push them into place. You can even shake or pound your strawberry on the table to help them settle and make room for more. Stuff it well.
You want your berry full and firm. But if you overfill it, you won’t be able to close it at the top.
Then top with some poly fiber fil.
The fiber fil or stuffing helps give a nice shape to the top, helps you sew the opening shut, and helps keep the crushed walnut shells inside.
Once your strawberry is full but not overly full, pull on the gathering threads to bring the opening together and tie a knot. Thread these thread ends through a needle (if you removed the needle already) and tightly sew the opening shut.
Do the best you can to close it up tight.
Attach the three separate leaves, from The Sewing Loft pattern template, first. Then I fold and bunch the joined leaf shape and stitch it on top. I used two of these per berry.
I just happened to find this white plastic ring in my craft supplies. I parted some of the leaves in the center and sewed it on the top. Because every strawberry pincushion that I’ve ever seen has had a ring.

And there you have a sweet little strawberry pincushion.

The 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop continues:

Friday, July 21st, 2017

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas—Day Eight

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah’s giving us the next set of instructions which includes more of the same of yesterdays. You should be seeing your quilt starting to take shape now. Unless you’re a tad behind, like me, but don’t fear, I bet we’ll be doing the same assignment for the next few days. She’s also sharing a couple of ideas on how to start your holiday morning right with a cute breakfast idea the kids, of any age will love as well as sharing some snacks and treats.

Katie Mae Quilts If you think your quilt borders are getting rather boring, you might like to check out Kate’s technique for a jazzy new idea and great instructions on how you can make it too.

Quilted Blooms Hands down! Paige has designed one clever pillow cover that will get the whole family involved. If you agree that Christmas is a great time for creating new memories or traditions, this idea won’t disappoint.

QuiltFabrication Susan’s designed a fantastic coaster idea; they can’t get any prettier or more festive than that. Using her easy tutorial, which includes lots of pictures, you’ll be making lots of these to tuck in Christmas stockings this year. The people on your Christmas list will be thanking you for sure.

Remember to leave comments on each of their 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop posts so you can qualify to win some fabric giveaways of Tula Pink’s new holiday line, Holiday Homies, generously donated by Free Spirit Fabrics!!! You have through July 26th to leave comments.

Coming soon on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats:

Sunday, July 23rd, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Third Stocking Stuffer Reveal—How Much Can It Hold?
Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End?

What I Learned Today:

I’m hungry for some strawberries!
I can clean a bathroom in 10 minutes. Company’s coming. They are willing to take the risk.
The apricot tree has apricots that are needing picking.
I must be a very giving person. My husband now has a cold.

Question: How fancy do you wrap? Do you wrap your gifts with Christmas paper or put them in bags? I stocked up on Christmas gift wrap years ago and am still using up that supply. It was quite a good after Christmas sale so it will be a few more years until it’s all gone. Some years, if I can’t find the gift tag, I just write the name on the package or a piece of the gift wrap. No fussing happening around here.

Linking to:

Tips and Tutorials Tuesday at Quilting Jetgirl
Wednesday Wait Loss at The Inquiring Quilter
TGIFF
Finished or Not Friday at Busy Hands Quilt
Show Off Saturday at Sew Can She

Tu-Na Quilts: All I Want for Christmas is ___ –Day Seven of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop and

19 Replies

First: The purple thang story I promised you from yesterday’s post.

As the holidays drew near last year, I got a group text from one of my kids asking what I wanted for Christmas. I immediately texted back:

2 purple thangs, no typo

What ensued were lively text and phone conversations from several of my kids asking what were purple thangs, where they could be purchased, and why I wanted two. Well, my thoughts were that I needed one for each house.

What I meant in that initial text was that the word thang was correct and not to be confused with thong. I don’t know about you but when I grew up, thongs were a type of plastic/rubber sandal worn on the feet. They had a strap between the big toe and first toe and made a thumping sound as you walked. I wore them all summer and loved them. I attempted to explain this to my kids.

They also couldn’t help but tease me that maybe, just maybe, I really meant 2 purple thongs from today’s definition of them. Somehow, it seemed they weren’t buying my explanations and the more I explained the deeper I was digging my hole. I finally gave up.

And then we gathered for Christmas. I received these from my oldest son.

I am so glad he went by my definition.

Oh, and I also got two purple thangs from his wife.

One already lives in my AZ house. I use it to hold fabric that is too close to the sewing machine needle for my comfort. It also helps push out points and push stuffing into corners.

Now onto today’s exciting news:

The weather outside may be frightfully hot or cold, depending on where you live, but the ideas and inspiration coming forth from this year’s bloggers is incredible. Come see for yourself:

July 14-25, 2017. Hosted by Sarah from Confessions of a Fabric Addict. Inspiration and ideas supplied by dozens of bloggers.

Thursday, July 20th

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah’s posted the next set of instructions for the Santa’s Trip Around the World Quilt: a little bit of ripping and a bit more sewing, pressing included.

You can make this quilt with any fabric. It doesn’t have to be Christmas.

Cheryl’s Teapots2Quilting Cheryl’s post is filled with 10 more ideas of gifts to make and give away or even keep for yourself. I found one or two that I put on my must make list. Maybe you will, too.

The Inquiring Quilter Are you needing a quick table runner pattern? Jennifer is one talented quilter who’s designed a beauty that will leave you lots of time to either make more or turn some into a quilt. I’m putting this one on my list to make. You might like to, too.

Selina Quilts Selina’s suggesting making some vinyl bags for someone on your list. She’s posted the link to the free pattern and tutorial. She also gives a hint for sewing with vinyl. I often forget about how great these are for gifts and great to use for myself.

Remember to leave comments on each of their Christmas blog hop posts as listed above so you can qualify to win some fabric giveaways of Tula Pink’s new holiday line, Holiday Homies, generously donated by Free Spirit Fabrics!!! You have until July 26th to comment on each blog.

See my post here for a complete listing of all participating blogs on the hop.

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

Ring Wreath that kids can do.

The first stocking stuffer reveal happened here. Go check it out to find out what I made to put in the stocking as you might want to make one or two for yourself.

Coming soon on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats:

Friday, July 21st, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Second Stocking Stuffer Reveal—You Mean There’s More?
Sunday, July 23rd, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Third Stocking Stuffer Reveal—How Much Can It Hold?
Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End?

What I Learned Today:

Even the Dr. doesn’t know why my cold lingers. “Might be a virus, gargle with warm salt water,” she said. My mom said that and I didn’t even have to pay her.
I’ve lost 9 pounds. I hope I don’t find them again. Instead of a stash report, I should do a Tu-Na Eats: Pounds Lost report. Nah, not quite as interesting.
I shall miss the IRobot Roomba. For the last three weeks, my husband and son have been fixing my mother-in-law’s. During the fixing process, it needed lots of testing. Now that it’s fixed, they’ve announced that it is ready to be returned to her. My floors have never been so clean. It’s been fun watching the little robot vacuum move over the floors and carpets with no rhyme or reason or pattern to its cleaning. Kind of reminds me of the way our Italian foreign exchange student mowed the lawn years ago.

Question: Do you buy or make a special Christmas outfit or do you make do with what you have? I am in the phase of making do except this year might be different. If I can continue to lose some weight, I’ll be needing some new duds to wear.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again,

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Tu-Na Quilts: The First Reveal—What’s Inside the Stocking?

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It measures 7.5″ wide by 9″ long with an opening of 4.5″ so there’s just enough room to stuff in some quilting goodies.

I posted my tutorial on how to make this cute, easy, Mini Quilted Christmas Stocking on the July 17th 12 Days of Christmas in July post found here on my blog. I included a free pdf pattern for it so you should be able to download and print it to make some for those on your Christmas list or as favors for a Christmas party. I filled this one with some great little goodies that every sewist/quilter needs and would like to receive.

The first surprise I’ll reveal from it is…….

This pail pincushion measures 2.25″ tall and has a cute little handle to carry it from one project to another.

Making Your Own Cute Container Pincushion

Materials Needed:

small container of your choice
scrap of fabric large enough to cut a circle 2 1/2 times the diameter of the top of the container
hand quilting thread
crushed walnut shells
poly fiber fil or stuffing
hot glue
small block of wood

First: A Little Talk About Some of the Materials

Containers:

I found this pail in a package of 6 at a thrift shop (no surprise there). But I also found other small containers that could be just as cute when turned into pincushions. Other stores to look for containers include dollar stores, hobby and craft stores, and wedding supply places.

You can get an idea of the size of these containers from those white pails in the back that are 2 and 1/2″ tall and a bit over 2″ in diameter. I think any of these would make a great pincushion container. I would have made a pincushion with that cute little teacup on the left but I couldn’t find where I had stored it when I needed it. You’ll be seeing some more of these container pincushions pop up on my blog from time to time.

Hand quilting thread:

I’ve found when I gather things by hand that this thread is the strongest and won’t break when I pull on it. You can use other thread but be careful when pulling them tight or you will be sewing around that circle again and you will want to make sure it is doubled or more.

Crushed Walnut Shells:

Crushed walnut shells are used in filling pincushions because they help to sharpen the needles and pins. It can be found in a pet store or the pet department of a discount store and is often sold as reptile bedding. Bonus, it’s rather inexpensive and lasts a long time. So you really don’t need to buy the biggest bag unless you make lots and lots of pincushions.

Crushed walnut shells get everywhere so I recommend laying something on your work surface that you can remove and shake.

To make it easier to fill that pincushion, one could use a paper funnel or other funnel. I made myself a Crushed Walnut Shell Dispensing Bottle.

To make your own Crushed Walnut Shell Dispensing Bottle, just remove the twist cap off a mustard container. Cut off the tip of the bottle to make the hole larger and then replace the twist cap. To fill the bottle just twist or snap off the cover and fill.

Block of wood

This piece of wood or bead helps to support the pincushion ensuring that it will be sitting pretty above the top of the container just where you want it. You will need to decide what size you will need based on your container and cushion size. If you don’t have scraps of wood just lying around your house, look for another object that you could use: wood bead, bottle or jar cap, or small cardboard box, etc.

Now let’s get to making this little pail pincushion.

Directions:

Part 1: Making the cushion

Measure the diameter of your container.

This little pail measures 2 1/8″ in diameter. Taking that times 2.5 yields approx. 5.3″.

Using a pen or pencil, trace a circle that measures about 2 1/2 times the diameter of your container.

Since I needed a 5.3″ circle, this plate was 5.5″ and worked fine to trace around.

Using a double strand of hand quilting thread, stitch 1/2″ from the edge on the RIGHT side of the fabric circle. Leave at least an 8″ tail at the start. DO NOT KNOT at either end.

Sewing around the circle on the right side of the fabric will make it easier to pull those threads to gather them. Once you’ve sewn all around the edge, pull on all four threads together to form a bowl shape. You don’t even have to remove your needle from the one end if you are careful. Continue pulling the thread ends until the opening is almost closed.

Pull on the thread to gather the fabric into a bowl shape.

Continue pulling until the opening is almost closed.

Fill the little bowl shape with crushed walnut shells, tapping the cushion on the counter or jiggling it in your hand several times to pack it in and to allow the crushed walnut shells to settle into place.

Once you have it almost full, add more. This stuff really settles. Then stuff poly fiber fil into the opening and pack it in tight. I used my purple thang to push it down. and under the stitching. I’ve got a funny story to tell about that purple thang but I’ll save it for tomorrow. And yes, it has to do with Christmas, too.

Stuff it full with the poly.

You can use your finger or a purple thang to push the poly fill into place.

Pull on all the thread ends to tightly gather into a ball. Tie a knot with the threads. Having a helper hold his finger on the thread as you are tying really helps. Using a needle take the loose thread ends and sew the opening tightly shut.

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Part 2: Putting it together

For this part you will need, the container, your fabric ball you just completed, a block of wood the size you want, and a hot glue gun with glue.

Put a dab of hot glue in the inside bottom of your container and add the block of wood or bead. My block of wood was about 1.25″ tall.

Work fast.

Push it down for a few seconds.

Add hot glue on top of the block of wood and around the inside edge of the container. You’ll need to work fast as hot glue doesn’t stay tacky for very long.

Hot glue on the block of wood.

Hot glue on the inside edge.

Press the cushion into the container and hold for a few seconds.

So pretty and useful!

You could add trim along the top edge if you want. I thought about adding some ric rac but decided not for this one.

Hosted by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict. July 14, 2017 – July 25, 2017. Gather Christmas gift giving ideas and other holiday inspiration from many bloggers.

The 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop continues. Here’s what’s going on today:

Wednesday, July 19th, 2017

Do You Hear What I Hear? Day Six of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah’s got us sewing the next step on our quilt along.

It’s not too late to start your Santa’s Trip Around the World Quilt. Check out Sarah’s blog above for directions.

The Colorful Fabriholic Jan found the perfect solution for those of us with limited space but still having a desire to put up a Christmas tree. Making one of these is definitely on my list to do.

Smiles From Kate Kate’s drawn some cute holiday pillow covers that can stay around longer than just Christmas. Even if the weather warms and you haven’t put them away, they won’t be melting anything except maybe your heart.

Coming soon on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats:

Friday, July 21st, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Second Stocking Stuffer Reveal—You Mean There’s More?
Sunday, July 23rd, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Third Stocking Stuffer Reveal—How Much Can It Hold?
Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 — Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End?

What I Leaned Today:

DVRs are very helpful, especially the rewind button.
This summer seems to be going exceptionally fast.
Once a mom, always a mom. Our “baby” and our first born (and his wife) headed out for a trip in the Boundary Waters. I hope they have fun but I will still worry.

Question: What is your favorite holiday beverage to make, serve, or drink? Since we make our own apple cider in the fall, we usually thaw out several gallons and serve it chilled or heated with cinnamon sticks and slices of oranges and serve it hot.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Linking to:

Tips and Tutorials Tuesday at Quilting Jetgirl
Let’s Bee Social at Sew Fresh Quilts
Wait Loss Wednesday at The Inquiring Quilter
Midweek Makers at Quilt Fabrication
TGIFF at Pretty Piney
Finished or Not Friday at Busy Hands Quilt
Show Off Saturday at Sew Can She

Tu-Na Quilts: O Come, All Ye Faithful (including quilters and crafters)–Day Five of the 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

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This year’s hop is hosted by Sarah at Confessions of a Fabric Addict. It’s not too late to join in on all the festivities.

Santa’s workshop is humming from all the activity. Fabric and thread are everywhere. Come on over and check out what’s going on at:

Tuesday, July 18th, 2017

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah gives us our next sewing assignment which is just like the others; sewing one final strip set. She promises something different for tomorrow. In the meantime, I’ve got some sewing to catch up on. How about you?

Santa’s Trip Around the World Quilt Along is going on now. It’s not too late to start. Details on Sarah’s blog, Confessions of a Fabric Addict.

Seams To Be Sew Do you need new ornaments for your tree? Marian shows us how to make some simple ones from fabric. For only a short time spent, you can give your tree a new look this year.

Stitchin at Home Cindy is spreading a little JOY at Christmas time this year. This super cute project just might be on your list to make this year.

Domestic Felicity Anita’s stitching up some Christmas cards on her blog today. Or you could use this cute idea for some really fun gift tags.

I posted my 12 Days of Christmas in July post yesterday. Click here if you are looking for it. I showed how to make these two projects pictured below: a stocking and a kid’s mini wreath craft. You will also find a complete listing of all participating blogs on the hop with updated links that will take you directly to their 12 Days of Christmas in July blog hop posts once they are published. This might be helpful if you have to go back and comment for the giveaway or look at directions again for all the projects you want to make.

7.5″ wide and 9″ long, not including the loop.

Here’s what I’ve got coming up on Tu-Na Quilts, Travels, and Eats this week. Join me on:

Wednesday, July 19th, 2017 for Tu-Na Quilts: The First Reveal—What’s Inside the Stocking?
Friday, July 21st, 2017 for Tu-Na Quilts: The Second Stocking Stuffer Reveal—You Mean There’s More?

Sunday, July 23rd, 2017 for Tu-Na Quilts: The Third Stocking Stuffer Reveal—How Much Can It Hold?
Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 for Tu-Na Quilts: The Fourth and Final Stocking Stuffers Reveal—Does The Fun Have to End?

What I Learned Today:

The importance of checking that wordpress is occasionally saving the drafts I write. Yes, I opened this up and only part of the title was there and no way to recover it. So I had to recreate it. I am so thankful this didn’t happen for my 12 Days of Christmas in July post.
I am overwhelmed and overjoyed by all your kind and positive responses to yesterday’s post about my stocking and wreath. Thank you very much. That post was my most viewed post to date as well as the one with the most comments from readers.
I will be very busy responding to those comments the next few days.
Only 10 more days until the 2017 Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop begins. Are you going?

Question: Do your Christmas celebrations require travel plans or do you sit tight, bundled up at home? Since we winter where it’s sunny and warm, we’ll be traveling by plane to spend Christmas in the snow with family. Last year we spent two weeks, including a blizzard on Christmas Day, this year maybe only a week.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts

Tu-Na Quilts: Go Tell It On the Mountain–Day Three of 12 Days of Christmas in July Blog Hop

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This year’s hop started July 14, 2017 and will continue through July 25, 2017. Participating bloggers are posting gift and Christmas ideas.

Santa’s little helpers for today can be found at:

Sunday, July 16th, 2017

Confessions of a Fabric Addict Sarah gives us our sewing assignment for Santa’s Trip Around the World quilt and also shows some great decorating and gift ideas that you could make for someone on your list. Are you sewing along? I’ll show my pics soon.

Swimming in a Sea of Estrogen Amy won’t be burning her fingers this year when she pulls hot bowls out of the microwave. If you’ve been wanting to make yourself or someone on your Christmas list some microwave bowl cozies or if you have no idea what these are, you’ll want to hop right on over to her blog to see how really easy and fast these are to stitch.

Everyone Deserves a Quilt Do you set up a Christmas tree? Joanne’s got you covered if you do. Well, your tree that is. She has a tutorial for a tree skirt that looks mighty festive. You might want to check it out.

Cheryl’s Teapots2Quilting If you haven’t found anything to make for those on your list yet, don’t worry, Cheryl’s posting lots of ideas with more to follow. She’s also giving away three mini kits so you might like to leave a comment on her blog if you want to win one and really get a jump on your holiday making.

Remember to leave comments on each of their posts so you can qualify to win some fabric giveaways of Tula Pink’s new holiday line, Holiday Homies, generously donated by Free Spirit Fabrics!!! You have until July 26th to comment on each blog.

See my post here for a complete listing of all participating blogs on the hop.

What I Learned Today:

There’s no place like home. Even my junk doesn’t want to leave. (I’m cleaning out my storage room and garage.)
It’s hard to let go of things I’ve had for many years.
I’m very sentimental.

Question: What do you make/bake for Christmas goodies? I used to make lots of different kinds of cookies and candy which is one of the reasons I am once again on a mission to lose weight. Now, I’m lucky if I get our Traditional Painted Cookies, Reindeer Cookies, and maybe some gingerbread men made for the grandkids.

Thanks for stopping by and do come again.

Karen, Tu-Na Quilts