Viridian's blog

Happy Pink Saturday

2012-01-27T19:17:00.000-05:00

A sweet little quilt block for you all. This is part of of my quilt in the style of Jane Stickle. Enjoy.

Viridian
I am joining up with Beverly at Pink Saturday.

Friday fragments - first time joining in

2012-01-27T08:11:00.001-05:00

Please check out the blog Half Past Kissin' Time for more Friday Fragments. You can click on the button above too.

Please be kind to this FF virgin. Is there a special term for that? A ffirgin?

***
This blog is about my quilting adventures, and to share my quilt blocks. I am approaching my 4th blog anniversary, and I will have a fabric giveaway in a week or two. My husband and I agreed not to share pictures or stories of the kids on the internet, for privacy reasons. Plus, maybe one of the three may run for political office one day. Wouldn't it be awful to have someone pull up old potty training photos? So sorry, no kid stories here.

***
Sign you need more TLC at home: When the nurses prepping you for your colonoscopy are so attentive and gentle you feel you are at a day spa. So unlike work and home. Something is wrong with this picture.

***
I'm perfectly fine, and I don't have to go back for 10 years. I may look into a pedicure at a real spa however.

***
I just started a Facebook page to accompany this blog. Who knew many people connect to blogs via Facebook? I am having trouble creating a FB button for this page. FB says it doesn't recognize this web address. I hope to fix this soon, but any advice is appreciated.
Cheers, Viridian

Just takes 2 - Yellow block

2012-01-26T17:01:00.000-05:00

What is the name of this pattern? [scratches head]. I'll have to check with my Barbara Brackman book, which is downstairs in the quilt studio.

Viridian

Block I-10

2012-01-25T08:58:00.001-05:00

Jane quilt progress: This block is known as Iris' Medallion. I've avoided it for so long because of the inset seams.

It doesn't lie exactly flat but I think with some aggressive ironing, and then during quilting (in the far distant future) it will flatten out.

I am joining Sue at It's a very Cherry world for Rednesday.
I am also joining the Sew Darn Crafty party, for the first time!

Viridian

Block M-13, but not the last.

2012-01-24T07:20:00.000-05:00

Lynette's diamond, in the lower right corner, as the Quilt is usually shown. I'm happy I found a fabric very close to that used by Jane in the Mother Quilt.

I followed Anina's instructions for this block and it wasn't that bad.
I am a little annoyed that the seams don't line up on the center square, but, "Finished is better than perfect."

Viridian

Jane block: M-7

2012-01-20T07:02:00.000-05:00

This is Junko's Rose Garden. I printed out Anina's guide for this one!

Melons, melons, too many melons.
Viridian

Post #300, and Rednesday

2012-01-18T07:36:00.000-05:00

Goodness, post #300! I'll have to think about a giveaway. And, I am approaching my 4-year anniversary of blogging! So stay tuned.

Today: a scan of most of a 9 inch block that I am doing for the Just Takes 2 project. This red is more of a tomato color. I think you can see that this is the Jacob's Ladder block (it goes by other names too). Red and white blocks look so wonderful don't they? I see why this project is so popular, and why red and white quilts were popular in the past.

Quick note: Instead of throwing this red fabric in the washer with other dark fabrics, I soaked it in the sink in hot water and soap - and the dye ran! I soaked and rinsed until the water was clear. But, it makes me wonder about other red fabrics I have purchased...

I am joining up with Rednesday at It's a very Cherry World!

viridian

Dear Jane block M-8

2012-01-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

M-8 is called Enchanted Square. It's a long weekend here and I was inspired to do a "Jane" block.

My first Jane block since Sept. 2011. I am getting closer - this is block 151. Unfortunately, most of the blocks left are harder blocks, with fiddly applique. And melons, lots of melons.

Viridian

Vintage red....something!

2012-01-10T18:05:00.000-05:00

This is a delightful crocheted ... something. I found it at a thrift store for 90 cents! It might be a hotpad or pot holder. When I saw it I thought of Rednesday right away. It's been a long time since I've joined Rednesday so I had to search for Sue's blog!

Hooking up with Vintage Thingy Thursday and Rednesday at It's a very Cherry World. It's Sue's 3rd anniversary and she is having a give-away.

Viridian

Just takes 2 hearts block

2012-01-10T15:46:00.000-05:00

But... mine will be different than everyone else's. They are arranged the wrong way on the background fabric! Imagine them rotated 90 degrees to right (or left) - that is how they are supposed to be.
Now to wait for the next installment.

viridian

Just takes 2 - Ohio Star

2012-01-09T11:11:00.000-05:00

The only yellow I had - very pale, I know.
The new golden yellow I ordered has arrived in the mail. The last block of this set will be posted tomorrow - and then it's wait for the next set to be posted at the middle of January.

Viridian

Just takes 2 - more blocks

2012-01-05T13:30:00.000-05:00

Block number 3.

Block number 4. This is a big block and not all can get in my scanner. I need to upgrade my digital camera driver, or get a new camera!

Viridian

New Year, New Project?

2012-01-04T18:01:00.000-05:00

Of course! When there is so much still to do on my Dear Jane project and Nearly Insane project! I'll start the Just takes Two project (Click on button at top of my sidebar). It's inspired by the Red and White quilt exhibit that was in New York, which did look amazing!

Near the first of the month and near the middle of the month new block patterns will be made available, for a short period of time. I mulled over what to do, and decided on blocks made with 30's reproduction solids: nile green, bubblegum pink, clear blue, lilac, buttercup yellow, peach, aqua, and so on.

Here is the first block, done in a rose color. I pulled out my stash, but of course I was low in some colors! Off to ReproductionFabrics to buy more!

Second block:

This is aqua, not green.
I have done two others, which I will share tomorrow. So far this has been easy and fun.

viridian

Nearly Insane block 49

2011-12-20T06:46:00.000-05:00

But I am falling behind in the weekly challenge put on by our yahoo group!
Viridian

Oh no, a mistake!

2011-12-13T18:14:00.000-05:00

A Nearly Insane block with an "oopsie" in it. I decided to forge on and finish the block.

I am sorry for ignoring this blog for almost a month! This block has been done for awhile. I am a bit embarrassed by it, but not so much that I didn't press on and call it done!
Colors are much as in the original quilt.
I hope everyone in the USA had a great Thanksgiving, and that you are enjoying the run-up to the holidays. I am pretty busy right now and I have done only one more block since this one. I'll try to scan it soon and add it to the blog. But the Nearly Insane project has been going for over a year, amazingly enough! I think I am about half way done.

viridian

Nearly Insane block ?????

2011-11-15T07:52:00.000-05:00

And if I knew the number of this block I would tell you...
Not too bad to construct.
Here is Tazzie's blog entry on her finished quilt - which looks great:
http://tazziequilts.blogspot.com/2011/11/its-so-exciting.html

Viridian

Nearly Insane - block 31

2011-11-05T10:31:00.000-04:00

A fun block to do, not too difficult. Getting that little dot centered in the center piece was pure randomness, honest.

Viridian

Block 89

2011-10-25T07:53:00.000-04:00

Two half blocks. In making the original quilt, Salinda Rupp set her blocks on point. Which means half-blocks along the edges of the quilt, and quarter blocks in the corners. There are 2 ways to do this: Make blocks, cut them in half diagonally (which Salinda apparently did) or carefully plan half blocks separately. the book Nearly Insane helps you do this, and that's what I did with block 89 here.

viridian

A recent Nearly Insane block.

2011-10-13T17:17:00.000-04:00

Log Cabin Style. One of the simpler Nearly Insane blocks - sorry I do not have the number. I promise I'll look of the number for my next block.

Viridian

Nearly Insane block 81

2011-10-07T12:43:00.000-04:00

Love the pinks! Viridian

Nearly Insane: Block 62

2011-10-04T07:34:00.000-04:00

Viridian

Nearly Insane: block 56

2011-09-27T20:07:00.000-04:00

I am having trouble getting the camera to interface with my new laptop, so this block was scanned.
In a way I wish these blocks had names, like the Dear Jane blocks. They might be easier to keep straight.

viridian

G-8: Indianapolis

2011-09-23T08:05:00.002-04:00

In pink, for my daughter's quilt. I paper-pieced the long center sections. I appliqued the pie-slices. A little uneven, but I'll take it.
This will not be in the center, as in the original quilt. I have already picked another block, but done in the green from Brenda' fabric line, for the center.

I am still moving ahead on my two main projects, my Jane quilts and Nearly Insane. I think I see the light at the end of the tunnel on my Christmas Jane quilt. It's to the point where I must think about which colors I plan to use for the remaining blocks, if I want to have the Trip around the world setting as in the original quilt. That is, a certain number of pink or brown blocks, red blocks, etc. Until now I have been picking whatever repro fabric speaks to me, concentrating on reds and greens, but some of the other colors too.
viridian

Next Nearly Insane Block

2011-09-22T08:45:00.000-04:00

I have added lines to the paper piecing pattern, so that I can actually paper piece this. I avoid set in corners and Y-seams as much as possible. Again, I am sticking close to the colors in the original quilt.
viridian

Never again: F-9 Autumn Aster

2011-09-17T09:19:00.000-04:00

Technically, and in terms of personal frustration, the most difficult block so far.

It would have been much worse if I hadn't followed Anina's technique of preparing the white background. Still, reverse applique in the corners was a pain and they didn't come out even. And then EIGHT melons, with narrow points. Argh. The pink fabric here is more tightly woven than most, and makes pulling the needle through several layers very difficult indeed. It's a beautiful fabric, but I will not be making this block again for my daughter's quilt.

Viridian

D-2 Mouse in a mirror

2011-09-14T12:38:00.000-04:00

With the addition of lines making many small white triangles I was able to avoid hand piecing this one!

viridian

I-6 Viewer's Choice

2011-09-09T07:05:00.000-04:00

Continuing on, as I can...
I cut the center piece as one piece to feature this particular fabric. Not too hard to applique, though of course the corners of the melons are still a challenge.

viridian

F-11, On Target, Done

2011-09-05T19:20:00.000-04:00

And appliquing the little white quarter circles was not that bad.

Retro-fabulous blog, you were right.
I am now at 148 blocks, 47 triangles, 1 corner, 4545 pieces. though looking at my guide (my Dear Jane bingo sheet, with fabric swatches glued to it), I think I've done a few more.

Viridian

F-11 On Target, step one

2011-09-01T19:09:00.000-04:00

The corners of this block, F-11, as Jane Stickle pieced them, are very complicated. I just appliqued on the green pieces.
Now: if I am matching Jane I would put white fabric behind the block, and cut away the green fabric in a similar shape to reveal the white (reverse applique). Complicated and fussy. I can stop here, but I think I will just applique on the white pieces. And once you do one, you have to do all four.

Viridian

Jane Block: Pam's Bells

2011-08-31T07:18:00.000-04:00

The main block is easy to piece. The four teardrops were easier to applique than I thought. No need to consider this a "hard" block. The fabric on the left is from the new Texas bound line, which I purchased at reproductionfabrics.com. I highly recommend this site for finding just the right repro fabrics.

viridian

Earthquake in Virginia and I was working on.....

2011-08-26T07:17:00.000-04:00

The Jane triangle called Epicenter! Seriously, I was! Did I cause the earthquake? If so I am sorry! Out here in the Midwest I did not feel a thing.

The center circle unit was assembled first following Anina's instructions. Then, instead of putting this unit under the white fabric, and doing reverse applique (as she did), I just turned under the edges and appliqued the whole circle thingy on. Then I appliqued the diamonds and struggled with the sharp points. Oh well it is done. This is one of the hardest triangles I have done yet.
PS. The pencil lines are where I am going to trim this block. I always cut my fabric even larger than the 1/4 inch seam allowances, in case of fraying or mistakes.

viridian

Triangle: Eiffel Tower

2011-08-24T08:23:00.007-04:00

And the top row triangles are finished.

(I have also done this in pink). The two melons are appliqued on. This is not how Jane Stickle did it. If you study the picture in the book, you'll see she did the lower melon by reverse applique. I didn't think I could be that fiddle-y.

viridian
145 blocks, 46 triangles, 1 corner, and 4470 pieces.

2011-08-23T08:23:00.000-04:00

School starts tomorrow! Today is my last day to work on quilt blocks!!

On the left; Jane's tears for my daughter's quilt. On the right: Eaton's crossroads, before trimming to size.
Viridian

B-5 Hot Cross Buns

2011-08-21T04:51:00.001-04:00

This Jane block is B-5, Hot Cross Buns. And there's a mistake - the border strips are supposed to be the background fabric, not the focus fabric. Oh well. I'm not going to re-do this, or unsew it. Green for my quilt, pink for my daughter's quilt.

viridian

"Jane-ing" On

2011-08-20T16:46:00.000-04:00

These are triangles from the top row of The Quilt, as it is usually displayed. The name of the triangle is Spanish Moss, each with 23 pieces. I have almost all the top row triangles done! School starts soon to time to plug along.
Viridian

J-12 Rebecca's Basket

2011-08-18T06:08:00.002-04:00

Simple enough to do, pieced with an applique handle. One for my quilt, one for my daughter's quilt.

Viridian

Hattie's Hen House

2011-08-17T09:35:00.000-04:00

Thanks for everyone's comments on past entries on my blocks and triangles in the manner of Jane Stickle.
Following some people's advice, I did buy 'cheaters' or reading glasses, and put them on OVER my current glasses. Wonderful! I can hold my applique work at my normal working distance, not so close that I might poke my cheek with the needle, or hit my eye with the back of my wrist. So I have been pushing ahead with the applique blocks.

I do admit to some continuing eyestrain. Not nearly as bad as before.

Viridian

Back to Miniature Madness!

2011-08-16T04:20:00.001-04:00

In these last 2 weeks of summer, I am pushing hard on my "Jane" projects, because it's back to school soon. I even pulled out some miniature madness blocks and finished them.

From left to right: bouquet, flying geese, and a pointy star. These patterns can be found in the classic pieced patterns in Electric Quilt 5 or 6. The Dear Jane software also has some classic pieced blocks in the library.

Each block is 3.5 inches across, unfinished, and those are real vintage feedsacks and fabrics in there.

My numbers now are:

1800's Christmas Jane 143, 45, 1, 4394

Pretty in Pink Jane 101, 36, 0, 3178
Miniature Madness! 58, 0, 0, 816

Oh those little triangles!

2011-08-15T07:18:00.000-04:00

The triangles are tiny, yet the block looks incomplete without them. I did not think I could applique something this tiny, so I pieced them in. I think you can see the seam lines.

This is block I-7, called Mac and Muff. No, I have no clue why!

Triangle: Jane's Oak

2011-08-13T08:15:00.002-04:00

The bottom piece was easy to applique, but I had some trouble with the inside curves on the leaf! This triangle I consider to be one of the signature pieces on the original quilt.

Viridian

Triangle: Left-side 13

2011-08-12T10:09:00.000-04:00

This triangle (called Watermelon) I think is often overlooked. It's on the bottom left side corner in the original quilt, as the Jane Stickle quilt is usually displayed. It's made of a tan fabric that has faded.

In Brenda's book this triangle is pictured on the very last page, just before the bibliography. Easy to overlook. Yet it has its own charm and is not too difficult to make. Paper piece several different sections, and applique 4 melons on. If you can do Dad's Plaids then you can do this one.

I am showing this in two colors because I am actually crazy enough to make two quilts! One is reproduction fabrics, for me, and one in double pinks for my daughter.

viridian

Block 10 - Nearly Insane

2011-08-09T09:06:00.000-04:00

A bit electric, yes? The colors and prints are close to the original quilt by Salinda Rupp.
I enjoyed finding a place in this quilt for the red print in the center, one of my favorite reproduction turkey red fabrics. the green fabric in the frame is a VERY close reproduction of a green fabric that seems to have been manufactured for 70 years or more! I bought it at least 5 years ago or more, so I am sorry, I can't tell you where to get it.

Viridian

Nearly Insane block 4

2011-08-05T15:56:00.000-04:00

Block 4 in close to original colors. I'll be linking this to Beverly's Pink Saturday meme.

viridian

Nearly Insane Block # 46

2011-08-04T15:23:00.000-04:00

This one turned out a little small and I added red strips to two sides to get it up to 6.5 inches, unfinished. A bit electric!!!

viridian

Update on the weight-loss journey

2011-08-03T18:47:00.000-04:00

This summer there have been some bumps in the road, indeed. I lost a bit but have gained some pounds back. I seem to have lost my motivation, and going to a conference 2 weeks ago with all the eating this involves does not help either.

As some of my regular readers may notice, I have changed my 'ticker' or bar on the top of my blog. I have changed my goal weight to a more manageable number. I don't think it's really likely at my age to get down to where I was in my mid-twenties.

To be more motivated, my doctor suggests I promise my self something big, like a trip, if I reach goal and stay there for 3 weeks. Where would you travel to? she asks.
Venice! I reply promptly.
So, I have a picture of Venice as wallpaper on my laptop, and I bought the Lonely Planet guide to Italy yesterday. I hope this motivates me more. I can start saving money now too.

Viridian

Pink Saturday July 30

2011-07-29T16:04:00.001-04:00

As in two posts ago, I am sharing some tobacco rugs. This time though, it's for Pink Saturday. See what other pink people are sharing!

Viridian

Jane is back in the house!!!

2011-07-29T10:42:00.000-04:00

After a longer hiatus that I thought, I am back at my blocks in the style of Jane Stickle.

This is B-12, or Starflower. In looking at my spreadsheet I realize I must have prepped this block in the fall of 2009! I had just seen Jane's quilt (the Mother quilt) and had been blown away by it. I prepped this block as reverse applique, as that is how the block appeared to be done in the mother quilt. (That is machine stay stitching around the outside). I did one leaf shape and stopped.

Why? I think I now know why. I am, I must admit, 50. No matter if they say 50 is the new 30 (ha!) the fact is your vision changes. With mature eyesight I must hold things farther away to focus on them, and then I can't see the detail. Or I take off my glasses and hold things very close and suffer eyestrain. Of course I am too proud to go to my eye doctor and talk about progressive lenses (that used to be called bifocals)! Not me, not yet!

Well I hunkered down and finished this block. And I think I will revisit my notes and continue on. I have done so much already. Now to find everything. I have moved my quilting stuff from an upstairs bedroom to a newly refinished basement.

Viridian
138 blocks, 42 triangles, 1 corner, 4227 pieces.

Vintage Thingie Thursday July 27

2011-07-27T20:49:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday! I am joining Coloradolady for Vintage Thingy Thursday.

I know these as dollhouse rugs, and they work wonderfully for that purpose. I inherited some from my mom for my dollhouse. I found out much later that these are premiums given away in tobacco products (cigars or cigarettes, I am not sure) to encourage smoking! Back in the early 1900's of course this was quite legal, and done a lot. More information is at this link. I have shown other kinds of premiums on my blog before.

Happy Vintage Thingy Thursday!!

Viridian

Vintage Thingie Thurdsay July 21

2011-07-21T08:46:00.000-04:00

The family and I stayed at a lovely little cottage on Cape Cod in Massachusetts a few weeks ago now. I'd like to share one more set of pictures from this cottage.

Decorating was an electic mix of cast-offs, but one bedroom was decorated in cottage style. There was a sweet little shelf above the double bed with delightful teapots and plates.

As these were not my items and they looked delicate, I did not pick them up and check if they were from the USA, Japan, or England. Just enjoy. And look at the detail on that shelf - I hadn't remembered that!

I am linking up with Coloradolady for Vintage Thingy Thursday.

Viridian

Vintage Thingie Thursday and Pink Saturday

2011-07-13T21:30:00.011-04:00

The family and I stayed at a lovely little cottage on Cape Cod in Massachusetts a week ago. Walking distance to the beach! Sea breezes! The ceiling in the living room had been raised and where the crown molding would be, there was a narrow shelf - just right for displaying a selection of pretty vintage teacup saucers. Probably long ago separated from their teacups.

We ladies in the family had fun picking out our favorites. Enjoy these vintage thingies, and note the pink!
I am linking up with Coloradolady for Vintage Thingy Thursday and with Beverly at How sweet the Sound for Pink Saturday. I'll have little teapots from the same cottage next week.

Viridian
Hope you are enjoying your summer.

Why don't I like this quilt top?

2011-06-20T18:21:00.000-04:00

There's really nothing technically wrong with it, but something is missing for me (no, not the border!)

Though a border would help.
The logs finish at 1/2 inches wide.

My analysis: 1. too many 'busy' fabrics for logs of this size. 2. too much 'light' - I like log cabin quilts with dark predominant. 3. maybe I'm not used to looking at the courthouse steps arrangement - this is the first one I have made. 4. It needs a border.

It's summer and I have more time, so I am trying again. This time the logs will finish at 3/4 inches. There is more of a mix of colors, and I've switched positions of the dark and light fabrics so the dark will predominate. We'll see!

viridian

Next Nearly Insane block

2011-06-13T18:32:00.000-04:00

This one is a little wonky.

I think a few leftovers were thrown together for this one.

Viridian

Nearly Insane block and Pink Saturday

2011-06-10T19:15:00.000-04:00

Hey, who says that pink, red and blue don't go together? Not Salinda Rupp, the maker of this quilt, back in 1870's Pennsylvania. These colors are very close to those in the original quilt.

I am joining Beverly for Pink Saturday.

viridian

Easy Nearly Insane block

2011-06-07T12:06:00.000-04:00

You know every now and again even us Nearly Insaners need a break, and take on an easy block.

Viridian

Back to some quilting content

2011-06-06T07:21:00.000-04:00

I have been continuing on my Nearly Insane blocks, just neglecting to post them here.

Here is a bright zinger, in colors very close to the original quilt. I redrew the inner part of the block to make it easier to piece, instead of struggling with Y-seams. I'll have another block tomorrow.
viridian

Vintage Thingy Thursday June 2

2011-06-01T19:37:00.000-04:00

I've been visiting ebay again, friends, and picking up tobacco silks. Oh, this has to stop.

Two queens, Marie-Theresa of Austria, 1840 - 1863, and Esther, 200 BC - yes, the Esther from the Bible. A bit of fraying here but looking good, for being almost 100 years old. Very Vintage!!! These were inserts or premiums, in tobacco products, much as little toys are in cereal boxes today.

Be sure to visit Colorado lady and see more vintage items!

Vintage Thingy Thursday May 26

2011-05-26T07:56:00.000-04:00

Oh dear! I can't find a way to turn this right side up. You will just have to tilt your head.

I last wrote about tobacco silks on April 27. They were given as premiums in packages of tobacco or cigarettes. You can read more about them HERE. Since that time I have bought a few more on ebay, including this one. This one is large, about 4 by 6 inches, and is a reproduction of a Gainsborough painting.

According to Wikipedia: "The Blue Boy (c. 1770) is an oil painting by Thomas Gainsborough. Perhaps Gainsborough's most famous work, it is thought to be a portrait of Jonathan Buttall, the son of a wealthy hardware merchant, although this was never proved. It is a historical costume study as well as a portrait: the youth in his 17th-century apparel is regarded as Gainsborough's homage to Anthony Van Dyck, and in particular is very close to Van Dyck's portrait of Charles II as a boy."

I am joining ColoradoLady for Vintage Thingy Thursday!

Viridian

Pink Saturday May 21

2011-05-20T17:46:00.000-04:00

Remember, there is pink under your nose, all around you. These stamps came on a postcard from Japan that I received recently. Love the one with classic blossoms and a volcano in the background.

I am joining Beverly for Pink Saturday. Next week is her 3rd anniversary of Pink Saturday!

viridian

Pink Saturday May 6

2011-05-07T09:31:00.000-04:00

Another Nearly Insane block - this one is block # 36.

There is some pink, but it's a bit of a dog's breakfast. I think Salinda Rupp was using up her scraps. Small pieces! The finished size, remember, is 6 inches square.

I am joining Beverly for Pink Saturday.

viridian

Next Nearly Insane Block

2011-04-30T09:33:00.000-04:00

This is block 29 of the nearly Insane quilt. I've been busy at work so moving slowly. But still steadily! on this project.

I have purchased a new sewing machine (a Janome) for myself for a very important (ahem) birthday. More later.

This block is in colors very close to the original quilt.

I am linking into Beverly's Pink Saturday meme.

Viridian

VTT: cigarette silks

2011-04-27T20:38:00.000-04:00

Happy Vintage Thingy Thursday! Today I am sharing two cigarette silks from early in the 20th century, perhaps 1910's to 1920's. They are of Queen Isabella of Spain and of a parakeet. The images are printed on silk and look as if they could become part of a quilt. And that was the plan. These were premiums or prizes to encourage women to smoke, or to encourage their husbands to smoke - if you can imagine that. How times have changed.

Learn more about tobacco premiums HERE.

Visit Colorado Lady and see many other neat vintage items!
Viridian

Pink Saturday April 23

2011-04-23T08:23:00.000-04:00

This week Beverly suggests that we post something for spring or Easter, and it doesn't have to be pink.

Here is a vintage Easter postcard. Note: chicks are not this cute and fluffy when they are just hatched!

Viridian

2011-04-16T12:52:00.000-04:00

Sometimes a sign of a Saturday in Spring is:

Preparing mini-cupcakes for a bake sale. There are pink sprinkles in there, I promise.

I'm joining Beverly for Pink Saturday today. Visit her blog and see lots of PINK.

Viridian

Vintage thingy Thursday - April 14

2011-04-13T21:23:00.000-04:00

This is a vintage card that is bigger than a postcard, and bigger than a holy card. Yet it reminds me of a holy card. I don't know what this is exactly, but one thing for sure, it is very vintage. The flower on our ornamental crabapple trees will look like this in a few days I think!

The card has a quote from Psalm 147: "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds."

Take care everyone, and Happy Vintage Thingy Thursday. Be sure to visit Suzanne's linky list and see who else is sharing this week.

Viridian

Pink Saturday April 9

2011-04-08T17:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Pink Saturday! I am sharing a classic quilt block in pink and green, in classic fabrics. It is yet another block from the Nearly Insane book. One of these days I will finish enough blocks to make a quilt - and then set it together, and then quilt it!

Be sure to visit Beverly at How sweet the sound to see who else is sharing pink.
Viridian

Vintage Thingy Thurs: vintage stamps

2011-03-16T21:28:00.000-04:00

I recently received a postcard via the Postcrossing project, with three older stamps on it. Each of these was, once upon a time, a stamp for first class postage. When did it cost 29 cents to send a first class letter? The late 1980's perhaps? A nice mineral stamp would do. Well then, when was it 10 cents to send a letter? Harder to answer! But there is another mineral stamp, a pretty tourmaline crystal on it.
And then going waaaayy back, when was it 5 cents to post a letter? This might even be before my time!!

If you like new or old stamps, perhaps you'd like to join me in my meme, Sunday Stamps, on my other blog, Viridian's Postcard blog. We share interesting or pretty stamps and tell what stories we have about them. You don't have to be a stamp collector, just be interested in stamps. Look for a posting on Saturday evening, USA eastern time.

I am joining Coloradolady for Vintage Thingy Thursdays - see what other fun things people are sharing.
Viridian

Pink Saturday March 12

2011-03-12T08:26:00.000-05:00

This is block # 5 from the Nearly Insane book, based on an antique quilt maded by Salinda Rupp. I finished it last week, and it's perfect for Beverly's theme of pink and green.

Viridian

Nearly Insane Half-blocks

2011-03-10T07:38:00.000-05:00

Time to make some half-blocks, so I am ready to set the quilt blocks. I have over 20 blocks done, which is a great start!
Viridian

2011-03-05T16:27:00.000-05:00

Block #12 of the Nearly Insane quilt. I have a short break from school so I'll be working on these and posting them next week. Enjoy!

Viridian
http://www.zazzle.com/viridian61*

Viridian's Verve: my zazzle store

Pink Saturday, and Nearly Insane Block

2011-02-26T09:22:00.000-05:00

This is block #8 from the Nearly Insane quilt. It is 6 inches square and has the second-most number of pieces in it. I don't even want to think about the block with the most number of pieces in it. Gotta love those pink triangles. I am using all reproduction fabric, and following the books's original coloring as much as possible.

Happy Pink Saturday, and be sure to visit Beverly at How sweet the sound to see who else is sharing pink.

Viridian

Pink Saturday: Cosmic Pink!

2011-02-18T15:57:00.001-05:00

Above is an image of part of the night sky taken by the Hubble telescope. Look at the right hand side of the image. Do you see the pink heart? This is indeed the Heart Nebula!
According to Wikipedia: "The Heart Nebula, IC 1805, Sh2-190, lies some 7500 light years away from Earth and is located in the Perseus arm of the Galaxy in the constellation Cassiopeia. This is an emission nebula showing glowing gas and darker dust lanes. The nebula is formed by plasma of ionized hydrogen and free electrons."

Oh that takes the romance out of it. Just enjoy the pink and the Heart.
Happy Pink Saturday, Viridian

Pink Saturday: Pink under your nose

2011-02-11T18:15:00.000-05:00

I just received a postcard from China, as part of the Postcrossing project. Isn't that stamp so delicate and pretty?

Sometimes, pink is right under your nose. Look for it in your house, and in your life.
Please visit Beverly at How Sweet the Sound to see other Pink Saturday participants.

Viridian

Nearly Insane: Block 37

2011-01-28T06:50:00.000-05:00

A complicated block! And with a mistake! I print out a paper foundation, and note for every piece what color it is supposed to be. Made a mistake in labelling but didn't notice it until assembling some sub-units. I really didn't want to unpick my work, so decided to let it go. When the quilt is assembled, I don't think anyone will notice. Maybe not even me.
viridian

PFF: I still want to go to Florida

2011-01-19T17:27:00.001-05:00

Boy, those tree leaves are bright in this old linen card, aren't they? It looks tropical and pretty and WARM. We had freezing rain here in the Midwest today.

Caption: "Hundreds of Royal Poinciana trees border S. Miami Ave., Miami, Fla." On the reverse: "Between May and July this avenue is ablaze with the flaming Royal Poinciana, affording a never to be forgotten sight to persons who have never seen nature in such brilliant array."

Sent from Hollywood Fla to Rhode Island in 1955.
"We visited a park to-day and saw all the animals and things. Then we went to Miami. Saw Arthur Godfrey's Hotel. Lois, Bill and Roger"

Today I think most people would be interested in the beach, shopping or the nightlife at South beach. Arthur Godfrey is not remembered.

Visit ColoradoLady and see who else is playing!
viridian

Nearly Insane block #33

2011-01-17T08:29:00.000-05:00

Having fun in reds, yellows, and blues. Very close to the original colors in the quilt.

Pink Saturday postcard Jan. 15

2011-01-14T18:51:00.000-05:00

There is snow on the ground in all of the US states except Florida today. I want to pack my bags and GO! And visit the Rare Bird Farm near Miami and see real PINK flamingos!

Happy Pink Saturday!

Nearly Insane: Block #24

2011-01-12T08:38:00.000-05:00

Yet more flying geese! The original quilt block does indeed have yellow this intense. A bit of a pain ot paper piece but not as bad as some of the other blocks. The next block is #8 with about a billion pieces - I think I'll pass!

viridian

Nearly Insane block #2

2011-01-10T08:30:00.001-05:00

Editted: This is really block #2!!!

I love the way this one turned out! And I had such fun picking the fabrics. Like many others, I have my nose to the Nearly Insane book, starting at the small images of the quilt blocks of Salinda Rupp's quilt, analyzing the fabrics, picking appropriate fabrics from what I have in my stash. I am also staring at the larger image in Robert Bishop's Book, New Discoveries in American Quilts. Worth getting, if you are on this quilt journey.

Viridian

New Discoveries in American Quilts

2011-01-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

Announcing a new meme: Sunday stamps!
Do you love stamps as much as I do? Do you consider them little works of art in themselves? Are you a stamp collector, or do you accumulate large number of stamps in candy boxes or cigar boxes (like me)?

I welcome you to join Sunday Stamps where you can show off your collection. Write a post, publish it, and then link into my blog. We’ll be starting January 9 on my other blog, http://viridianpostcard.blogspot.com/. It will be a great way to get over the January blues.

I will be using Linky tools. I plan to open the linky party late Saturday night or early Sunday morning (USA Eastern time) and close it Sunday at midnight.

I look forward to seeing your posts. If you have any trouble posting your link, please email me at viridian61 –at- yahoo.com.

Nearly Insane: basket block

2011-01-06T07:16:00.000-05:00

This is block number 41 .

I love how this one turned out! The yellow is a recent purchase. It does raise the wattage a bit but I dig it against the red and dark blue. If you study the pictures of the original quilt much of the yellow is indeed this bright.

The sources say this quilt is in a private collection. I wonder whose, and where. Is proper care being taken of it? Would they ever consider putting the quilt on display?

viridian

Nearly Insane: Block 94

2011-01-03T13:04:00.001-05:00

Continuing on with my current obsession...
Block 94, one of several that you make, then cut in half, to fill in along the edges.

I have made about 18 blocks so far, and I'd like to start setting them together. To do that, I need these half-blocks. I have also made some simple nine-patches to cut in half too, to get me going. I plan to put the blocks together randomly, not in the same order as the original quilt.
viridian

Pink Saturday New Year

2010-12-31T16:02:00.000-05:00

A postcard from Finland just received from Postcrossing.

Happy Pink Saturday, and may life come up roses in 2011!

Viridian

Les Petites Dames of John Burbidge - VTT

2010-12-30T10:41:00.001-05:00

They are 29 inches tall, but do not call them dolls. These are to be admired and studies, not played with! They are the creation of John Burbidge and showcase fashion trends from about 1860 to 1914.

I am showing images of one of my many favorites, a ball gown from 1863. Mr. Burbidge uses vintage and antique laces that he finds in his travels (like Paris flea markets!), along with typical doll clothing materials. There is a book available showcasing these fashion icons (see link on left) but there is nothing compared to seeing the ladies in person.

Where are they? Presently they are residing at Ventfort Hall in Lenox, MA, a gilded age 'cottage' built by one of the Morgans (of JP Morgan). Ventfort Hall is in the process of being lovingly restored to its 1890's splendor - and it was full of splendor. Visit their web page to see, http://www.gildedage.org/.

I was lucky enough to visit one afternoon. One cannot touch the ladies of course, and I was afraid to breathe on them! The materials are exquisite, especially the lace. The craftsmanship is impeccable. These look like real clothes shrunk down, not Barbie clothes by any means. Click on the images I scanned above to see larger versions, and the detail!!!!

I am also linking in to Time Travel Thursday at Brambleberry Cottage.

Inspired, Viridian

Nearly Insane block 82

2010-12-27T13:40:00.000-05:00

Block 82. I'm working on these while I have time over vacation.

viridian

Nearly Insane: block 75

2010-12-26T16:47:00.000-05:00

I don't know how many pieces are in it, but I say - too many! Paper pieced, and I still had trouble. With the paper and the seam allowances, the edges of the block will not lie flat for their close-up.

I don't think I'll do another block with so many half square triangles for some time!
viridian

Nearly Insane block #22

2010-12-14T16:24:00.000-05:00

Which has an insane number of pieces for a 6 inch block.

And... there are even two other blocks with more pieces in them. Really.
I took on block #22 as a personal challenge, and to slow myself down. I'm really liking these blocks and I am finishing the group challenges quickly. [ The group is the Nearly Insane group on Yahoo groups.]

Want to know more? Click on the book link on the left. Disclaimer: I am an Amazon Associate, and theoretically I might even earn some money some day from these clicks.

Viridian

We make pink Christmas cookies

2010-12-11T08:54:00.000-05:00

I am joining Beverly at How Sweet the Sound. First: My favorite holiday movie: It's a Wonderful Life, for sure! I am aslo doing her meme from last week, favorite holiday recipe.

The cookies that are evil, right - the ones that made me gain weight. Well I should have avoided them. It was fun for the children anyway!

Mom's Easy and Way too Delicious Sugar Cookies

Buy prepackaged sugar cookie dough - the one that looks like sausage.

Following the package directions, slice and place on cookie sheets. Take out one stick of butter to soften for the frosting. [oh dear, I think it's time to buy new cookie sheets!]

Bake following package directions; allow to cool completely. Meanwhile, make a huge batch of buttercream frosting, following the recipe on the back of the powdered sugar bag.

Tint the frosting different colors, being sure to include PINK. And be sure to have PINK sugars for topping. Here my daughter is demonstrating how to 'dip' your cookies into the decors or sugars.

Our finished product!
Happy Pink Saturday!

Vintage Thingy Thursday: Peary reaches the North Pole!

2010-12-08T20:11:00.004-05:00

I am joining Colorado Lady for Vintage Thingy Thursday. Click on the image above to see some wonderful old things.

I should really wait until April to share this but: here is a vintage booklet called "Peary and the Discovery of the North Pole."

Still I imagine this feat would still have appeal, such as the moon landings had appeal long after the fact.
Interesting side note: Matthew Henson is mentioned in the booklet, but no mention of the fact he was African-American (negro, they would say in those days).

Viridian
PS: no mention of Santa Claus either!!!

Evil Christmas Cookies!

2010-12-07T08:22:00.000-05:00

They are tools of the Devil!
You may know the ones I mean: sugar cookies, with frosting and colored sugar on top - so that you are essentially eating sugar and butter.
That 22 pounds lost is not going to stay up at the top of my blog after my weigh-in on Wednesday, I predict. 22 lbs, it was great to know you, my new most pounds lost. I'll see you again soon.

Vintage photograph for VTT

2010-12-01T21:40:00.000-05:00

I am joining Colorado Lady for Vintage Thingy Thursday. Click on the image above to see some wonderful old things.
Today I am sharing a photograph found in an antique store.

A sweet child, dressed in white with chubby legs. Note that the dress is blurred becasue either there was a breeze or the child was moving.
There is no name on the back, and I have no other information on this photo. That makes me sad, actually.
viridian

nearly Insane block ... Something

2010-12-01T21:27:00.000-05:00

Honestly I'm losing track of the numbers now. The camera was having trouble so the image is a little blurry.

I like how the blue looks electric against the black fabric.
Viridian

Nearly Insane block # 7

2010-11-26T18:34:00.000-05:00

At least I think it's #7. Some of these blocks are very similar!
My seventh block. Enjoy!

Nearly Insane block #53

2010-11-23T08:33:00.001-05:00

Just a tad blurry!
My sixth block. Enjoy.
viridian

Nearly Insane block 40

2010-11-21T10:34:00.000-05:00

My 4th block, but forgot to post it that week. Enjoy!

Nearly Insane block 48

2010-11-19T20:24:00.000-05:00

My fifth block. Still following the colors in the original quilt closely. It's been a tough week and you know what? I like knowing what colors are where, and then pulling out my collection and picking out the appropriate red or yellow or green fabric. Few decisions suits my life just now.
viridian

Vintage thingy Thursday - quilt pattern booklet

2010-11-17T19:40:00.001-05:00

Grandmother Clark's Patchwork quilt designs, now rather fragile. No publication date.

A peek at some of the patterns inside - plus other paper patterns that the previous owner had clipped and saved. The old patterns are still appealing! Some of the latest books and magazines are publishing very similar patterns today.

I am joining Colorado Lady for Vintage thingy Thursday. She is sharing some great Christmas-y things today.

Nearly insane block 3

2010-11-09T10:44:00.000-05:00

My block number 3 in the series. This is block number 73 in the Nearly Insane book by Liz Lois. Not officially on our group list, but I added it as something to paper piece in between the log cabin rounds of block number 11. I chose fabrics very close to those in the original quilt.

viridian

Nearly insane block 2

2010-11-08T10:05:00.000-05:00

The second block in the challenge series. This one is # 11 in the Nearly Insane book. I changed colors somewhat. Next: Block #40.
viridian

I may be nearly insane!

2010-11-07T20:10:00.001-05:00

I must be nearly insane to start on a new project esp. at this time of the school year. But a small group of us on a Yahoo list for this admirers of this antique quilt have decided to challenge ourselves to a block a week.

What is this project? See the link to the left. An antique quilt featured in a quilt calendar became the obsession for Liz Lois, who drafted the patterns.
Each block finishes at 6 inches (large compared to Dear Jane blocks!) I forget how many there are in the whole quilt - 90?? Pictured above is my first block, labeled #6 in the Nearly Insane book. The colors and fabrics I chose are very close to the original. I have two other blocks done, and I'll post them later this week.

viridian

weight loss journey continues...

2010-11-06T10:33:00.000-04:00

I was at a professional conference last week, which as you can figure out, entails eating out. So I gained some weight back. Back on the treadmill we go. I will lose these few pounds again.

viridian