An old friend
My machine was making a clunky noise this evening — even after a good cleaning and a new needle it still wasn’t running well so I pulled out the Elna and will take the Brother to the shop. I bought it in March last year so I guess it’s almost due for servicing anyway.
I’d forgotten how nice the Elna is to sew on but I can’t find the feet. I’d put them in a safe place when I took this in for repair last March and I never even opened it back up when it came home because I was already using the new one. I’m sure I’ll run across the bag I put them in somewhere but I managed to find a quarter inch foot that fits it (a Little Foot) although I’m not sure why I had an unopened one in with the Curve Master foot I haven’t tried (yet).
In spite of the challenges and since today is Tuesday, I managed to work on string blocks as planned and I got my backing for the week pieced also. I’ve got enough QAYG blocks now for 2 quilts (96 blocks) and I spent part of the day cutting up and piecing additional batting squares.
There are instructions for piecing the blocks on my MaryQuilts.com site along with links at the bottom of the page to Jan Mac’s and Keryn’s blogs where they show how they assemble them.
And finally, I have a pair of socks. They don’t match but I finished my second sock tonight — not without some challenges but with more practice I might actually get good at these. Maybe tomorrow I’ll get the matching red sock cast on.
How neat your feet look in your socks!
I have a Brother machine that I bought at a garage sale for $25. It had some feet missing but my daughter’s old ones fit it, so I use it when I want a nice easy machine, it is lovely & smooth to sew with.
I don’t think you need to knit the matching one. They look great as they are!
I had to chuckle because I’m STILL sorting through my sewing room (a full-time occupation by itself). I find when I’m done that I can’t FIND anything then! LOL I put things in logical places at the time I’m cleaning and then when I need to find something I spend valuable time digging around where I THOUGHT I put it! Just last night I wanted my applique sheet (to iron on some transfers) and I REMEMBERED having it in my hands but it took me almost 15 minutes to find it (lying on top of some books on the shelf so it wouldn’t get creased). So far I’ve managed to keep my “sense of humor” about the searches but regret the lost quilting time! Love the socks … agree with Clare … wear two different colored ones and see if anyone notices … sort of a “scrappy” attire look
Who says socks have to match?
Everyone seems to be making lovely socks these days. I am desperately fighting the urge to learn how. I’m afraid I’ll add a yarn addiction to my fabric hoarding condition.
I think I will cut some batting to try QAYG for string blocks. I’ve decided that 2010 is my year to try new things and QAYG seems safer than skydiving.
Your feet look adorable! Are you enjoying the process?
Is Tuesday your string block making day? I love the look of you pile of blocks.
What great accomplishments: an impressing stack of blocks and a pair of socks! You will have the mates to your socks finished soon. Keep up the good work.
Mary – Just a few comments –
I too have my sewing machine in front of windows facing out to my backyard – I can see whatever Mother Nature is offering for that day, plus birds at the feeder, and squirrels at play. Sometimes I just pause and sit and enjoy the view.
I’m a sock-knitter want-to-be. I have the yarn, the needles, the book – bought this all two years ago, and it all still sits in the sack. My goal this winter was to just “do it!”. Yours look nicely done.
I really like the tilted 9-patch, and since I’m a scrap-quilt kind of quilter, I really like the different fabrics in each triangle that frame the 9-patches. I may just try that.
Love your blog!
You just might start a new fashion trend!! Love them… I’m almost done with my first one (will get the 2nd cast on today, if things go as planned). GREAT JOB, Mary!
I have made at least 15 pair of socks over the last couple of years. I have a tip about pattern and needles. I absolutely love the sock pattern found in the novel “A Good Yarn” by Debbie Macomber. It’s called Peter’s Socks – comes in two variations – double-point or 2 circular method – I use the 2 circular needle method. As far as needles go, I use the Addi Turbo circular needles in 24″, and think they are awesome. You’re doing a great job with your socks. You should also try the self-striping yarn – that’s what I find most addicting – can’t wait to see how they turn out.
Love the socks! And there is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find your stuff. I hate it!
Happy Feet! that’s what my grand kids call the socks I make! None of them match in colours, only the sizes. They love them! I make about 28 pairs a year and they get to the Christmas Bazaar and are scooped up immediately!
Love the socks! They don’t have to match, only if you are inclined to do so. Growing up, I was always the one that didn’t pay attention to whether my socks matched. Last year, I started knitting a pair of socks, put them down, and just recently picked them back up. Feeling quite like a novice, and not really knowing what to do, I am slowly finishing the first one. I hope it turns out. Thanks, Karen K., I will find the Debbie Macomber book and read up on the pattern in the book.
~~Lori