Art Gallery Fabrics - The Creative Blog

Hello home decor lovers,

March is almost out the door and the best way to take advantage of the last days of it is to reminisce about the essence of what this month brings. With March comes Spring, Easter festivities, and anything surrounding the essence of aquamarine! This birthstone is the official stone for the month of March which is made up of a blue-green mineral. Before this month ends I want to look back at some projects that have some aquamarine properties, that would be perfect to put in your home or to give to someone who's birthday is in March! 

1. Light it up...

Hanging up a quilt with little Panda details and pairing them up with cute lights? I love this! Blue is such a relaxing color that placing it on any wall will soothe the environment in your house immediately. The calming effects this color has will have you stay at home, enjoying the last days of winter (or not depending on your state), and preparing colorful projects for what Spring will bring. To make your own relaxing quilt find the pattern here and to purchase Pandalicious fabric click here.

Pandalicious by Katarina Roccella

2. Aquamarine Dream

Wild Bloom Fabrics brings an aquamarine vibe to your bedroom and your dreams with soft hues of blues and turquoise. This pillow has the perfect color to fit into the March style and lots of colorful flowers to blend in with the upcoming Spring trends. Since this pillow is long and rectangular it will look great just by itself on a couch or as a statement pillow on a bed, trust me wherever you decide to include this amazing applique accessory in, there is no way it will go unnoticed.  To download the free pattern and get your own pillow click here.

 Wild Bloom by BariJ.

3. Half Moon

This one is for those that want some aquamarine details only. This cute little pillow that contributes to the color of the month, while combining those bright hues for Spring is a good addition too. All the half circles in this type of pillow design make it perfect to include different types of fabric substrate and prints. For example, how about some aquamarine from our pure elements with a denim detail? Or pair a solid cotton fabric with a canvas print? Seriously, the options and endless- OR... if you fell in love with the photo below you can get the pattern here.

Blush by Dana Willard

 4. Baby Blues...

A smaller quilt for those everyday things in a softer aquamarine hue brings the most relaxing environment for any home. I personally am a big fan of blanket ladders. It displays anything in such an elegant way and helps include those colorful projects and designs in your space. Also, this is a great technique to add color to your house or apartment without having to paint or do any drastic changes. The good news is that you can buy or build your own in different sizes and heights, so even if your space is small or you think you have no space for it, chances are it will fit :) If you see yourself making this quilt find the pattern here.

Gossamer by Sharon Holland

5. Color Master

The newest curated collection of fabrics comes with an amazing free quilt pattern to put any Color Master edition to good use. The boxes come in fat quarters and half yards and include 10 prints from different collections! The Plenum quilt was designed specifically for the Color Master boxes and since we are honoring the aquamarine theme, we thought of using the Teal Thoughts edition which combines those blueish greens tones we want for March. For direct purchase follow this link.

Teal Thoughts Color Master Edition

And that's a wrap for the color of the month projects! I hope you enjoyed reading about how you can implement aquamarine in your house and how to blend it with other color tones in preparation for Spring. If you are a shop or happen to know of any other shops carrying these prints leave me a comment and I'll make sure to include them in this blog post! Can't wait to see what you'll make and hopefully I'll see lots of aquamarine on social media.

Thanks for reading :)

Decor away...

Martina

Hey there sewing friends, 

I am having a blast teaching the girls to piece together the blocks of the Community Sampler and I love seeing all of your gorgeous blocks on Instagram.  Last week I got to put together the Ribbon Star Block with Michelle from the Graphic Design team. We had a fabulous time stitching up the block and dancing to Shania Twain. The most wonderful part of this process so far has been individually hanging out with each one of the girls from the AGF team and finding out things I never new about them before. Like for example, Michelle is a lefty! It was definitely a learning process for the both of us when it came time to teach her how to cut the fabrics! Sewing with Michelle filled me with so much joy because of her eagerness to learn and the excitement on her face when she finished her first quilt block. It's such a pleasure to be a part of Michelle's first quilting experience and I think it's safe to say she caught the quilting bug and we will be seeing a lot more quilty things from her in the future.  Below read all about Michelle's introduction to quilt making.  

Made with Splendid Fusions

 Sewing with Michelle was so much fun! Read about her favorite and most difficult parts in the process of creating her first quilt block. 

Prior to starting your quilt block did you have any sewing experience?

I did! My great grandmother owned a small craft store and taught my mom how to sew. My mom later taught me. We’ve sewn small bags, fun 50’s style aprons, and little gifts for friends so sitting by the sewing machine for this project felt familiar.

Before starting your first quilt block lesson, what was your impression of quilting and how did you feel about doing this for the first time?

I felt like quilting was very intimidating. It seemed like a massive project to take on but breaking it down block by block definitely makes it a more manageable project, mentally and physically.

I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would. I feel like making anything with your hands is a rewarding experience and I can’t wait to see what the full quilt will look and feel like!

What was your favorite part about creating your first quilt block?

Unfolding the first triangles after sewing them!

What was the most difficult part about creating your quilt block?

I felt a little stressed about cutting down the fabric to the precise measurements because anything less than what was called for would mean the final block wouldn’t match up! But you measure twice, cut once and hope for the best. And it turned out great!

What advice would you give someone who is new to quilting?

I would say make sure you read the instructions to your pattern beforehand to have a mental map of how the process will go, kind of like reading a new recipe before actually baking it.

How does it feel to have created your first quilt block?

Accomplished! Makes me excited to make another one!

How has your idea of quilting changed after learning more about it?

Like I mentioned earlier, breaking down a quilt into “bite-sized” portions makes it more manageable. So doing this block helped make quilting less intimidating for me.

Do you see yourself quilting in the future?

It’s already on my calendar!

Isn't Michelle the cutest!  Snapped a pic of her holding up her first quilt block make! 

The next block of the Community Sampler is up and I can't wait to get together with Jess from Graphic Design and whip up this fun looking block.  Make sure to pop back next week to see the reveal of the Cactus Block!  

If you haven't joined the Community Sampler yet don't worry it's not to late to join. To keep you up to speed check  out out the blocks you might of missed below. 

Block 1- Kitty-Corner Block 

Block 2- Dovecote Block 

Happy Sewing, 

Meli

Hey everyone!

How ya doin’? Do you ever get those moments when you want to make something but you don’t have much time to spend on it? I completely know the feeling! From work, to chores, and spending time with the family, sometimes it can be difficult to find some “me time.” In my opinion, one of the best ways to conquer creativity with other tasks is by making small projects that only take a few minutes.

I’ve paired up with my colleague Elisa from our production department to show you how to make a quick and easy EPP necklace. Making this necklace was such a fun way of combining EPP techniques with our new Printemps Fusion and Pure Elements solids to create something quilty you can wear. Follow the steps below to see how you can make your own version.

What you’ll need:

• EPP templates (download here)

• Scissors

• Fabric

• Thread

• Needle

• Jewelry Making Cable Chain (size depends on how long you want the necklace)

• Jewelry Side Cutters

• Open jump rings 

• Small Jewelry Lobster Clasp

Step 1

Print template on cardstock and cut out the hexies. Place hexie templates on fabric and trace the hexies about ¼” from the edge of the template. Fold in the edges and baste the fabric around the hexie template.

Step 2

Once you’ve basted all of your hexies, place the hexies face to face and sew them together at the edges to create the desired shape for your pendant (for this project we’re going to keep the paper inside out hexies to make the shape of the pendant sturdy). We recommend making 2 of the same pendant shapes so that the pendant can be double sided.

Step 3

Place both pendant shapes “back to back” and sew all around to secure.

Step 4

Cut your chain in the desired length you want the necklace to be. Puncture a small hole at the top of your EPP pendant with a pin and attach a small ring (it’s called an open jump pring). Press the ring closed with the pliers. String the chain through the pendants ring and use a second jump ring or attach a jewelry lobster clasp to close the necklace.

Voila!

You’ve made an EPP necklace!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this quick tutorial! Let me know what you think in the comments and tell me all about the projects you’ve made with EPP techniques.

Till next time!

-Stephanie

Hi There, Makers!

Hope you're having a fabulous week, creating lots of new projects!

I’m always curious in hearing how others go about their creative process, especially when it comes to what they listen to while they’re working on a sewing project. Is it the sound of crickets outside, classic rock music, a favorite movie playing in the background or perhaps it’s a podcast? In recent years, I have found myself listening to podcasts while working on projects. I really enjoy the unexpected topics they cover, and that magical human connection that they create.

I always enjoy learning about the sewing industry and these podcasts are perfect for that! You just never know when inspiration or insight will come knocking at your door. Without further ado, here’s my Top 5 Favorite Sewing Podcasts:

1. Modern Sewciety

Fellow, Florida native “Stephanie” began sewing when she had her first child in 2007. With a genuine, sweet Southern charm, she chats it up with creatives in the sewing industry, shares latest tips and trends, and also focuses on quilting, business and marketing. One of our designers, "Dana Willard" recently did an episode with her! 

2. While She Naps:

Harvard graduate “Abby Glassenberg” is an incredible author and interviewer. Her podcast covers topics from the home sewing industry and creative entrepreneurship with a focus on craft publishing, the creative process, fabric manufacturing, feminism and social justice. Oh and you guessed it, another one of our designers, "Mister Domestic" was recently interviewed by Abby!

3. Love to Sew Podcast

Hosted by the fun, genuine and empowering duo, “Helen Wilkinson” and “Caroline Somos,” their podcast covers a great deal of sewing handmade wardrobe, the uses of different fabrics and their advantages, small business, interviews with inspiring sewists, and sharing their daily revelations, as two creative entrepreneurs.

4. Sit & Sew:

"Stephanie Soebbing" started quilting one day because “she was bored.” Since then she’s built a very strong quilting community by creating “Quilt Addicts Anonymous.” On her podcast, Stephanie often picks the brains of renowned designers and it’s extremely fascinating to listen to some of most inventive creators in the business.  

5. Crafty Planner

Wonderful interviews by host “Sandi Hazlewood” who was trained as a city planner and then transitioned to eventually become the first president of the "San Diego Modern Quilt Guild." She has a knack for asking the right question while remaining quiet during those “magical interview moments” where the storytelling just organically unravels.  

Bonus! American Patchwork and Quilting Podcast

For all the quilt lovers out there, host "Pat Sloan" is extremely passionate about quilt making. As a quilt designer, author, fabric designer and teacher, her passion carries into her interviews that revolve around quilt inspiration, fabric selection, design, patterns, and machine quilting tips.  From beginner to advanced levels in quilting, Pat has something to share with everyone. Last but not least, one of our designers "Sharon Holland" also did a very recent interview with her this week!

Do you listen to (sewing) podcasts? What are YOUR favorites? Please feel free to share in the comments.

Until next time, keep creating!

- Sophia

Hello Makers!

I hope everything is great! The weekend is here so it’s the best time to grab your sewing machine and work on all your WIPs. Better yet, you can even go visit your LQS because Saturday, March 17th is National Quilting Day! Yes, you read right… it’s a special day to celebrate the art of quilting.

National Quilting Day happens every third Saturday in March as a day to recognize quilters, along with the time, effort, and love that is put into each quilt that’s made. To help you celebrate this day with a bang, here are 5 quilting tutorials that will bring your sewing to the next level. Check them out!

1. Linking Block Tutorial

In this tutorial our host Meli will teach how to make this beginner friendly block that showcases the fun prints from Day Trip fabrics by Dana Willard. Visit the coinciding blog post to see how you can turn this block into an awesome quilt.

2. AGF Stitched Hideaway Quilt

Have you been dying to sew your little ones something with the cute panel from our Nest Capsule collection? No worries, our friend Kimberly from Fat Quarter Shop will teach you how to make the Hideaway Quilt in her newest episode of AGF stitched. To see the different versions other makers have made, visit the Fat Quarter Shop blog.  

3. Improv Flower Block by Mister Domestic

We all know that when it comes to quilting, accurate measurements and precise sewing is essential. Well, in this tutorial Mathew lets loose and shows us that sometimes you don’t have to be tied down to guidelines to create a masterpiece.

4. Binding with Mister Domestic

If you’re a beginner to quilting, we understand that binding a quilt can be a grueling task. But don’t worry, Mathew will make this tedious task easier with his easy machine binding lesson.  

 5. Ironing Tips to Improve Your Sewing

Last but not least, here are some ironing tips that can help your projects look crisp no matter what you sew.

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I hope you’ve found all of these quilting tutorials useful! In honor of National Quilting Day, let me know in the comments how long you’ve been quilting and what you love about the craft.

Till next time,

Stephanie

Hi Everyone,

Who  has something fun planned for St. Patrick’s day? Holidays are my favorite thing to sew for which is why of course my mini of the month for March had to be St. Patrick’s Day inspired! I knew right away I wanted to use the perfectly curated “Winter Wheat” and “Emerald Stone” Color Master Boxes. The Color Master Boxes are perfect for easy and quick sewing projects. If you need a certain color to add to your stash the Color Master Boxes make it so easy with 12 different color groups to choose from.  I picked my favorite prints from both bundles to create the “Lucky Emerald” mini! I used the Quilt As You Go method which made the process go so much faster. I wanted to incorporate as many different green and ivory prints as possible to create yummy texture and a appealing scrappy look. To get into the festive spirit follow the tutorial below to make a “Lucky Emerald” mini of your own! Check out the end of the blog post for more All Things Mini sewing tutorials.

Fabrics Used: 

Fabric A- PRS-215- Cottagely Posy
Fabric B-BOU-8049- Wallpaper Flesh
Fabric C-GRD-79902- Moment In Time Light
Fabric D-WND-2534- Diamond Flush Gold
Fabric E-CHP-40208-Let’s Chalk Green
Fabric F- PRS-214- Steeping Awakening
Fabric G -CST-3202- Psychedelia Peridot
Fabric H-GSS-7244- Mesh Calm
Binding-CHP-40208-Let’s Chalk Green
Backing- MW-80020- Summer Grove By Night

Cutting Directions: 

 Six (6) 1 1/2" x 17" strips from Fabric A,B,C,D,E,F,G,and H

Four (4) 8 1/2" squares of batting

One (1) 20" square of batting 

Download the four leaf clover temple here. Cut out four hearts and tape together with the points touching and slightly overlapping. 

Creating your String Blocks 

We are going to be sewing our strips onto our 8 1/2" square batting pieces. Draw a diagonal line with a fabric marking pen on your 8 1/2" batting  pieces. Then draw another line 1/4" away from the line. Place your first green strip pretty side facing up lining up the edge of the fabric to the second line you drew. Then place a ivory strip on top of your strip so right sides of the fabric touch. Make sure strips are hanging off  evenly on both sides of your 8 1/2" piece of batting. Pin strips and batting together and sew your strips at 1/4" Line your presser foot up with the edge of the fabric. 

Press your white strip open and place a green strip on top right sides together and sew at 1/4".

Repeat this process alternating strips until you get to the corner of your square. Repeat this process to cover your whole 8 1/2" square batting with strips. Use your 8 1/2" batting as a template to trim all the excess strips. 

Trim your block to 8 1/2". Repeat this process with your remaining green and ivory strips to create four blocks. 

Place your blocks with the green tips facing in to the center. Sew your blocks together to create a four patch block! 

To make my mini more festive I wanted to add a four leaf clover detail to the center.  I placed a extra piece of batting in between my backing and mini top to help the four leaf clever quilting details stand out.  Once I taped together my hearts to form a four leaf clover I placed the template in the center of the mini and traced it with a fabric marking pen. 

I quilted meandering swirls inside the four leaf clover and finished it off with some hand stitching to outline the design.

What are some of your St. Patrick Day makes? Share with me in the comments. 



 For more mini sewing  check out some of my previous mini projects. :)

SunSet Rays Mini

Nature Lover Mini

 Wood Trails Mini

Rustic Crossroads Mini

Let it Snow Mini

Water Ripple Mini

 From the Heart Mini

Hope you have a great St. Patrick's day! 

Happy Sewing, 

Meli