Last week was a busy week. Generally both PTA and Fiber Junkies don't meet in the same week, never mind back to back days.
But it is our duty to have fun with our fiber friends!!
We met at Judy's.....as always we are so appreciative of having access to her large, well equipped and beautiful studio. Denny brought her die cast cutting machines....there are several manufactures of these machines with accompanying dies that make fast work of cutting both simple and complicated shapes.
We were all awed by her large electric one.....not to mention the huge inventory of shapes she owns.
Gen was very methodical and concentrated on cutting specific colors and shapes. She's trying to get a bunch of kits prepared in anticipation of a huge downsizing and move.
Each of us had piles of fused fabrics ready to be cut.
Here's an example of the Ohio Star block Denny cut using her machines. I love the unusual color & busy print combinations, the black sets it off so well.
She also worked on a t-shirt quilt for her husband.....using his collection of very unique shirts.
The backing is personalized too....he grew up in Scotland and is an engineer type.....thus the numbers and sport theme.
Kate has been on a roll creating the most charming small pieces from orphan blocks. She has an extensive fabric collection which she utilizes with her great eye to make the blocks so much more interesting.
And....a total surprise for me. I had a rather big milestone birthday back in the spring. We don't normally celebrate birthdays, only the significant ones. However, about that time, two of our members had major family matters to cope with and the time passed. That was totally fine with me as it made it easier to ignore the big 70...unlike many who worry too much about those things. But....the FJ's didn't forget.....and when I walked in to Judy's house I was greeted with birthday greetings and all the wonderful trappings. The theme was beads as you can tell.
As is tradition, each birthday girl is given a crown & scepter. I also received this beautiful eco-dyed scarf that Val created....complete with the screen printed words "Bead Queen on Board". I'll treasure these memories forever. Thank you dear friends.....this was such a wonderful surprise!!
AND....on another personal note.....'the husband' is now recuperating from major surgery and I'm playing nurse maid and wicked witch.....keeping him from doing things he is not supposed to do. The recovery is going to be LONG.....however with any luck I'll be back blogging and in the studio before too long.
