On My Sewing Table - August, 2023 - Long-Range WIPs

Join me on Patreon - / thecatbirdquilts990
Quilty Start Quilt Pattern - quiltyloveshop...
Projects I'm working on:
/ thecatbird
My Favorite Tools:
CUTTING
Spring Loaded Scissors - amzn.to/3yP2WWx
Rotary Cutter - amzn.to/3zduqGP
Self-Healing Mat - amzn.to/3IY7TRW
Embroidery Scissors - amzn.to/3cnW76L
RULERS
Grid Ruler 5" - amzn.to/3RzFQvI
Non-slip Quilters Ruler - amzn.to/3PeivhN
Biased Binding Ruler - amzn.to/3yQ4lMC
Measuring Tape - amzn.to/3uVACk9
Tailor's Chalk - amzn.to/3zcJ1SQ
PRESSING
Iron - amzn.to/3uYMBxt
Wool Mat - amzn.to/3zcXfTL
Tailor's Clapper - amzn.to/3Pst00I
Quilters Clips (for Binding) - amzn.to/3Od3QBR
Quilting Gloves - amzn.to/3RKTe0m
Sewing Machine - amzn.to/3zaWZVw
Beginner Sewing Machine - amzn.to/3zeFQdi
PENS
amzn.to/3BAPWH0

[@cashby1425]

Lol “if I didn’t have other responsibilities in life…”. Same here! I would just sit in my comfy chair and sewsewsew! I am addicted to quilting photos, quilting websites, patterns and have like 100+projects I want to make in my little quilting journal. It’s a sickness😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It’s amazing how many projects I have awaiting, or filling my brain at any given time-there’s no way I can start (much less finish) them all!! 🤓😱 but also 😍

[@Cassandra-..-]

Do you fall asleep thinking about quilt patterns, too, like I do?😂

[@Kimberlyle98]

I love Paul’s quilt. The fact that it’s scrappy but the colors are harmonious makes it calm but so interesting with the different patterns.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Kimberly! ❤️ It is very calm and harmonious to me, too! 🥰

[@jeanhicks1933]

I had the same issue with finger pressing, always felt like I was distorting the fabric. Then I tried a seam roller. Perfectly flat seams and no distortion! So I don't have to run back and forth to the iron, and when I go to press, it is easier because the seams are already flat. Would love to see the project in the beautiful sunset colors on your back wall!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I've been needing someone to endorse a seam roller--I wasn't sure I'd like using one or if it would do the trick--so now I will try it! Thanks for the recommendation! ❤️ The project on my back wall is "in development"!! 😳 If it comes together, you can bet your sweet bippy that I'll do a video on it!! 🤩🤓😘

[@terrytt2932]

I don't collect men's shirts - yet - but 8-10 years ago I began collecting cashmere sweaters. Cashmere is a favorite of my daughter. I cut them into 'quilt' squares, sewed them together and made a big two sided throw for her. I had enough to make one for me, my best friend and also a couple little blankets for our cats. They are fabulous. I have enough for one more, probably a kingsized blanket. They are so fun to work with. I patch moth holes with other colorful cashmere shapes in all different colored scraps. My daughter is 57 and once thanked me for being the kind of mother that made 'Snoopy' clothes and recently told me that her cashmere throw is her favorite thing I ever made for her!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! That is so wonderful! ❤️

[@tavhuffman6879]

That sounds amazing!! Do you sew the squares together on a sewing machine? Do you bind the blanket? Tell me more!

[@terrytt2932]

@@tavhuffman6879 Hi! the squares are not all equal. I cut the largest sections possible, cut the big pieces into manageable pieces and then square them up no matter the size -much like the mens shirts. It's all done by machine even the patches and I haven't done anything special as far as stitching, putting them together. I do stitch together tiny moth holes. No batting and used the pillowcase method to put the sides together. the two sides together are quite warm and quite heavy. YES! they stretch. This is NOT a project for the perfectionist. It turns out wonky...and charming.

[@barbaraangier9967]

I to am a part time quilter…more so because I’m a multi crafter which really means I don’t make a lot of progress on any one project. But I keep reminding my self that it’s the process I love……though I do like a finished project too! I love ALL your projects. I have to say your orange peel quilt is STUNNING! You’ve challenged to me think more about my choices is how I put my quilts together…from fabric choices to block placement. And I thank you for that. …….and you have ignited in me a love of modern quilts which frankly has taken me by surprise. I just have to ask….what is that beautiful wonderful quilt behind you. I could barely take my eyes off it! Is there a quilt story for this pattern? Thank you………for everything.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you, Barbara!!❤️ I'm humbled and pleased by all of your kind words. 🥰 The quilt on the design wall is in development! If it works out, I will definitely do a video on it! (but no quilt story yet!!)

[@kylierigby1953]

Love all the progress, Cathy! My eyes were so on the quilt on your wall. I so look forward to your next video. They are like a Friday afternoon gem for me. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Kylie!❤ The project on the wall is something I’m working on as an experiment just for me-hopefully it works out and I can do a video about it soon!❤

[@kylierigby1953]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Oohh, how cool! I'll look forward to that one. ❤️

[@user-mk8sh9tj8m]

LOVE this video♥️! The orange peel quilt is amazing...love the "peachy" color variations....will be a stunning quilt! Oh my! How gorgeous is the star quilt for Paul! The different shirt patterns are so much fun. I know it too will be amazing when finished. Looking forward to seeing both in future videos🥰. Best wishes for you and your daughter as you continue your fabric hunt. Some of my most treasured moments with my daughter are in fabric stores...like we stepped into another galaxy😊 Have a fabulous weekend and thanks again for sharing💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Rebecca! So many wonderful compliments in this one comment! 🥰 I too, love my time in the fabric store with my daughter. I know I will treasure them even more as time goes on! ❤️ I wish you a great weekend as well!

[@lynnieloungelizard4587]

Another fabulous video! You have created a crazy lady, obsessed with buying mens shirts😂 I have found a thrift shop selling all mens shirts for $2AUD each and scored some big and tall shirts yesterday. It was ridiculous how excited I was. I just need to start on my project now (a quilt for my son). The projects you discussed today are absolutely gorgeous. You have a gift for colour. LOVE the one on the design board. Thanks for the fun!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lynnie! ❤️You are going to have so much fun making your son's quilt out of your inexpensive op shop shirts!! 🤩 (ps great score!) The one on the design board is in development--if it comes together you know I'll do a video on it!!

[@stefflcus]

IT WAS ME. I WAS ASKING FOR THE BIGGER PICTURE OF THE ORANGE-PEEL QUILT. I ASKED. 😂 Thank you! Love love LOVE the orange colorway on the orange peel. It's gonna look so good! The quilty stars blocks are all so gorgeous! That always looks like such a fun one. (Of course I got the Princess Bride reference. I'm cultured!) And now I'm gonna ask about something else again: WHAT is that LOVELINESS hanging behind you?? Also WHEN am I gonna remember to join your Patreon? (Okay, that question was for me. Moving has chewed up mah brain. I'll get there!)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

See...I knew that and wanted to give you what you asked for. 😉 Of course you got the Princess Bride reference. I mean, are we friends or what?! Girl! It is something super secret and in development!! I cannot WAIT to tell you about it. IF it comes together as planned! You are always welcome to join on Patreon, and there is no guilt or judgment for when or why or how. ❤️

[@ladyjane3660]

LOL! I have a really bad habit of picking up new projects, too, before finishING something already started. If my calculations are correct, I will have to live to be about 238 years old to finish all the projects that are in the works and all the ones I would like to do.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL!! Relatable, Lady Jane. Relatable!!!❤️

[@tavhuffman6879]

I have a stable stash : stash that’s accumulated beyond life expectancy! But love having options!!

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

I just love a contrast at collar and cuff. And adore the "flowery" fabric shirts that men wear, which are sometimes hard to distinguish between a man's shirt and a ladies blouse. The fabric is often thicker on a man's shirt and may have front pockets in the way rather than a bust dart to unpick, but the number of times I've said "I'd love to meet the person who's confident enough to wear this!" Do you think they consider us when making their purchases? "I wonder how this yolk will look in a quilt in a few years time?"😂😂 Great progress for a "Part-Timer". Well done Cathy.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too, Maggie! On almost every word in your comment!! Love a contrast collar and cuff! Love floral men's shirts, and yes often thicker and has pockets! Yes, to the confidence of men wearing these crazy and eye-popping and floral and pastel shirts---what fashionable and courageous men there are! 🤩 I don't think they consider us, but I DO ask myself, I wonder where this yoke/collar/shirt fabric will end up?! Thank you for the encouragement, my friend! ❤️ I just keep keepin' on and somehow these quilts eventually just get done.🤓

[@Cassandra-..-]

These pretty yoke shirts always remind me of Cam from Modern Family. If only Cathy had access to his wardrobe!

[@shulamussnug7120]

Can’t wait to see your progress as you work on this beautiful quilt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shula! ❤️

[@Cassandra-..-]

Perfect timing. Drowning in WIPs over here 🙋‍♀️. Dragged my feet on my son’s quilt because there was too much contrast in some places, not enough in others. Finally seam reaped™️ my way to a solution, and then had to find the no-longer-stocked-locally fabric I needed. Now the boy is home briefly from grad school for his birthday and… he’s going back with pillow cases! 🤷‍♀️ At least I know where it’s going, now, and the nagging is much quieter. Plenty of time between now and cold weather, yes. Your orange peel quilt is 😍, BTW.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cassandra! (the seam reaper TM made me laugh!) I feel you with the nagging---if it's really "off" I just can't let it rest in my mind. Glad to know you found a solution! And thank you about the orange peel quilt! 😊

[@michele6708]

I love how you “over-analyze” things and explain it all to us. A girl after my own heart! All of the thinking work you put in shows, with truly stunning results.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Michele! ❤️ I rationalize my over-thinking (which is, in itself, overthinking lol!) by telling myself that I'm always learning and trying to improve! Bwahaha! I mean, true, but the overanalysis is real. 🤓

[@annerankin1191]

I enjoyed this video so much!!!! Finger press like you are playing the piano…. The first time I saw someone do the scratch finger press I cringed…..(and it was done by a woman who is the worst quilt police ever - a quilt judge). I just love the yoke quilt (it has a new name now). Scrappy blocks make my heart happy! XOX (PS Also LOVE the direction of the orange peel quilt! - you could try Flatter to un-pucker your peels.)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! So glad you enjoyed this one, Anne! ❤️ I definitely need to lighten my touch, and I play the piano so I will give that a try.👍🏻 “the yoke quilt”-I laughed! I’ve not always been fond of scrappy, so it’s a nice place to be for me, to really be enjoying these blocks!

[@annerankin1191]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts xox

[@monavance2125]

Your blue star blocks are so interesting. I would spend hours just looking at all of the different fabrics❤. I was almost expecting to see random squares with the tags from the shirts incorporated into them. 😆 waste nothing, right!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mona! ❤️ I do get a lot of joy out of looking at each fabric even as I make it! I probably won't include tags but I WILL include logos if I end up having some! 😊🤓

[@shannoneaster9311]

This week’s episode about your works in progress was right up my alley! I keep reminding myself that my hand pieced grandmother’s flower garden quilt is a long term project. Also, I fuss over each flower! Together they’ll add to the overall appearance of the final quilt, but individually each fabric combo won’t be as critically important as it seems when I’m working in that area. I am also having to remind myself that it’s a “years long” project. It helps to put it away and work on something less “slow” for a while. I need that time to become enamored with it again. Have you seen the wooden seam rollers used for “finger pressing” by quilters and for smooshing seams by wallpaper hangers? I find they distort the fabric less and are effective. Love your wip quilt blocks and the quilt hanging behind you! So fun to see your progress and hear about your decision making as well as your trials. “Quilt talk” is invigorating. Makes me want to chat in person with you. ☕️☕️🫖

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! So glad you enjoyed this one, Shannon!❤ yes, it’s easy to obsess over each choice and small fabric contribution not realizing that it won’t be as important in the larger quilt. BUT I do think all those great little decisions add up to a beautiful quilt, so there is that. 😘 I need to try the seam roller-several people have suggested it and I suspect that might be the solution to my aggressive finger pressing problem!😂 The “quilt” behind me is in development-if it comes together, you know I’ll be talking about it on a video before long!!🤩 And thank you for the sweet words-I’m just exactly the same in person. You might not get in a word edgewise! 😂🤓🥰

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

Love, love, love the Quilty Stars blocks. I laughed when you said you didn't like the first one you showed compared to second one. I loved the first one better but really they are ALL SPECTACULAR. On a side note...I apologize for not keeping up with your channel. I have had big home projects and huge craft commision project that I am actually finishing today. Yay! So hopefully can catch up with your channel. Great job Cathy. Would love to see actual instructional videos on particular quilt patterns. Just a suggestion. 😁👍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Nettie! ❤ there is something special about those blocks-I don’t know what it is but they are just a delight!😊 I totally understand life requiring much of us-I’m in that same season myself, honestly! So no need to apologize. Thanks for the suggestion-I will consider it! 🤓👍🏻

[@Denise11Schultz]

18:19 Perhaps by now someone has mentioned the Japanese sewing tool called a hera, which is designed to flatten seams as you need (and used on edge, allows you to mark without chalk). Paper crafting uses a ‘bone tool’, but the curve on the hera is more versatile.

[@pkmetzger]

I love Moda Grunge fabric line.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too! I didn't at first, but the more I use them the more I love them. ❤️

[@jennjennedington279]

I am also a big big fan of Grunge

[@pamelahill7164]

I like your final decision on your orange peel quilt

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thanks, Pamela! ❤️

[@cazkiwinz4300]

Now I want (to make) a tan on tan quilt… loved that colourway… and the scattered design you settled on, that’s my jam too! I’d have to make for my mum tho… I can’t have light or white stuff with my dirty messy black long-haired doggy love of my life…. Oh… and putty and oil-handed husband 😂😂😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Caz, right?!? I've always loved tan and white, but once I did that design on the graph paper, I thought, "Oh yeah!!" I wouldn't be able to have it in our house either---no dogs, but I'm too prone for spills and chocolate stains and it would be ruined! 😱🤓❤️

[@freddiehansen7324]

Love love the grunge! There are some that are black with a bit of navy I think it's the Moda Peacoat one, but I would definitely want to see it in person with your navy and black fabrics first. Paul's quilt is going to be so stunning! And the one on the wall behind you! LOVE the colors! I got sidetracked on my projects and made a whole other quilt (almost done with the quilt top) 🤣I'm stalling a bit because I actually don't enjoy the quilting part.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Freddie, I *almost* bought the Peacoat one, but I couldn't tell from the photo if it was more gray or blue or black--wish I had gone with my gut and got it!! 🤓 Thank you, about Paul's quilt (I love those Quilty Stars blocks SO much!!) and the one on my wall---it's in development! 😍🤞🏻 I need to quilt the Magnolia Quilt, but am stalling as well. It's not my favorite part, either. Time to dig down deep and get that thing done!! (pep talk to myself lol)

[@freddiehansen7324]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Yeah it's hard to "see" the true color of the fabric when looking at a phone or screen, so I get it. I have bought fabric that looked very different in person and also looking at a small swatch is different from a yard. Doing my shopping today to finish the "Oops I didn't mean to make a quilt but I had fun with some new test blocks" quilt, trying to use basting spray (a first for me)) so hopefully it will make quilting easier.

[@Daniel5150You]

Thank you Mrs. And Mr. Martin for another great video. My 18 year old was gifted a graduation quilt, people thought I was crazy. I am lookong forward to aeeing your complete graduation quilt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Daniel! We have a touch of crazy (ok, maybe more than a touch) up in our house, but I prefer to think of it as "genius" not "madness." 😂🤓😘 And "people" can think what they want---graduation quilts are THE BOMB.❤️

[@Daniel5150You]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts 😁😁

[@tamiduquette1592]

I am currently making a somewhat similar pattern. The pattern has you do the 8 at a time HST’s. After sewing and then cutting 320 of them, I found it to be a disaster! Doing 8 at a time gives you too many chances to cut a little wrong here and a little wrong there. Many of them are now too small or super off line. I have to make a bunch more that I will do as two at a time. Also, your remarks on the wedding quilt and when it will be done rang true with me. The quilt i am making is for a 4 year old girl. Her bday party is tomorrow. I was rushing to get it done in time and finally threw up the flag today. If I had continued to rush it, the quilt wouldn’t be the quality she deserved.

[@lucilegubbins4433]

I am inspired by you! Even with the things I know I know (like with color, value or with technique as you did here), it helps to hear you articulate those thoughts. I am making progress on my existing projects. No judgment, just encouragement!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lucile! 🥰 I'm so glad you're making progress on your existing projects, too!❤️

[@marybeth4002]

My! You've been busy :) I'm really loving the colors on your curved pieced quilt with the linen/peach-toned colors. You are a wise woman realizing you have other commitments and it will get done in due time as you enjoy the process in this gift for your friend. The blue/white Quilty Starts segment is full of great information re coordinating the fabrics - that blue/yellow block still makes my heart full. I'm right there with you re Denim and Flower, Cactus Man, etc. fabrics. How FUN are they?!!!

[@marybeth4002]

Cathy, You were on my shoulder today - I scored a men's 3X, 100% cotton, turquoise and blue gingham. Great way to start the weekend❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOVE the Rickey Singh shirts (D&F, Cactus man, etc.)-they are SO FUN and soft and usually 100% cotton. I mean, what’s not to love?!? I love the yellow and blue block too!😍 Thanks for the compliment about the orange peel quilt-I can “see” it now, and now I just have to chip away at it to get it done. 🤓😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@marybeth4002that IS a great way to start the weekend! ❤

[@Denise11Schultz]

I’m watching these out of order, so I don’t know if you found your white, but I love White Grunge. White on White is my favorite quilt backing, and the grunge texture is so useful.

[@charlottemcgilvray739]

You have done it again. Love your videos and love your colour combinations. I have been obsessed with doing coloured stars with the light background. Absolutely love the navy background stars . Now I am off to the op shop as we call them in Australia.. I am lucky I have a few little charity shops where you can get clothing items for $2.00. each. Bargain. Thanks again for your knowledge and skills.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

thank you, Charlotte! ❤️ And I love that you've found a good op shop in your area with great prices! That's wonderful! 🤓👍🏻😊

[@ragingsmirk68]

True Black is a dilemma- Keepsake Quilting "Amish Black" - Connecting Threads "Amish Solids" would be great fill in "in a pinch" for your shirt projects. Blessings creative one!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for the suggestions, Raging! I’m glad to have options! 🤓👍🏻

[@pegpage8618]

Thank you Cathy and Paul for another lovely video. I just love listening to you “think out loud” on your quilt projects - it’s like listening to a friend.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Peg. Having you watch and comment (and encourage me on Patreon) is like being with a friend, too. ❤️

[@beckyezra1]

about the round quilt it is beautiful, may b it will b less time-consuming if you follow the shabby fabric tutorial on this pattern, i find it faster, and if you do all the light sand color and only then you do the orange it will save some time. a huge good luck!

[@ritamcannally7222]

I’m making the Orange Blossom quilt as we speak. People are amazed at the technique. So much fun!

[@patriciahomer5342]

Absolutely gorgeous! I'm always surprised with fabrics you choose and how beautiful they turn out. Nice to see from your point of view.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Patricia!❤️

[@julias.8236]

lovely projects and you are making great progress. Regarding the time consuming orange peel quilt... maybe you could do more chain piecing so if you start pressing, you might press 8 at a time and then back to the sewing machine for more sewing. I always find that that speeds up my progress immensely. Looking forward to see how the graduation quilt will move forward. Have a lovely day, you two 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Julia❤ I did actually do exactly that (chain piecing, pressing a bunch at a time, etc.) it does help! All the steps in this one just make them take a little longer, and I’m slowly making peace with it. We’ll see how the graduation quilt unfolds-I’m hoping it is as beautiful as we are envisioning! ❤

[@julias.8236]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts It surely will be 🤗

[@davidhatfield5714]

Sorry, as you might have noticed, I too, have a lot to say🤭on a rainy day this week, I when to my library (Ebooks) and just checked out about 10 quilt books. I don’t read much of them, I just look at the pictures. One book made me think of you. Mary Fons (I know you know that name) “Make+Love Quilts, scrap quilts for the 21st century “. Three or Four of her quilts look like great shirt quilts. One was called “Whispers” my Thousand Pyramid dream quilt! Why I’m collecting all those men’s shirts❤❤ hope you might find time to go to your library and see if you can check out this book..Thanks for listening..PS..love Paul’s quilt! (KH)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, K for the book recommendations! I will definitely check them out! 🤓❤️

[@davidhatfield5714]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts forgot to say, make note of her quilt backs. I was so surprised how really super random her choices were. Modern front, really old school backs.

[@amymcadams6043]

The linen. gorgeous.

[@amymcadams6043]

Also, I'm impressed Paul knew how to spell "ggggkkkk"

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Amy! ❤️

[@pammeinzer6757]

I absolutely love your choices in patterns and material. I am not as patient as you. Must be my age. 😆 lol Have a great 👍 week

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pam. ❤️ I will confess that sometimes I get to that point in a quilt where my patience gives way and I say, "screw it. that's good enough." Which either is the beginning of some GREAT and courageous fabric/color choices or an indication that I need to put it away for a bit. I'd say it's about 50-50 which way it goes. 😂

[@glynisreynolds446]

Oh how I sometimes wish I could just sew 😢 I love all your WIPs 🥰 I’ve spent the day at Festival of Quilts, and it’s made me want to sit and sew forever, but life happens so I’ll have to grab any chance I can get 🤷‍♀️ On a positive note - I found a blue shirt with white polka dots for my blue and white checkerboard shirt quilt 🎉🎉 Can’t wait to get some squares cut out ready to sew 👍 Love the linen cream/orange peel quilt 🥰 It’s going to be FABULOUS 👏👏🇬🇧

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Glynis! I'm so envious---I really want to go to Festival of Quilts!! I think Paul and I are going to try and go next year (and maybe do some videos there!! 😍) I'm so excited for your blue and white checkerboard quilt---it is going to be so lovely. AND you know I love polka dots so that's just the best! 😊👍🏻 Thanks for the encouragement about the linen orange peel quilt---hopefully it will get done sooner rather than later! ❤️

[@glynisreynolds446]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts If you do go to the Festival remember to get the two day tickets so you can enjoy one day looking around then one day filming so you do get to enjoy the show. The two day tickets can sell out so hopefully you’ll get some 👍👍 Have you been watching all the KZbin videos? All of them seem to enjoy totally different quilts to the other people so the more you watch the more quilts you will get to see 👍

[@beckyezra1]

may b a lot told you that to use the botton part of the shirts on the pillow instead ot zipper. that can give a nice touch. love yr videos. bless.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Becky! ❤ yes, I’ve had viewers suggest using the button placket and other parts of the shirt for the closure-in this case I had already discarded those pieces and had to piece the back to cover the whole pillow so I decided a zipper was the way to go! 🤓👍🏻

[@socalgingerjohnson]

I assume you are making the Denim & Flower quilt for yourself! It is so wonderful watching the joy each of those fabrics bring you❤ It is so fun watching you put your whole self into each of your beautiful quilts. This one will hold so many memories.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Ginger! ❤️ The D&F yoke/cuff/collar quilt is for my husband, Paul! Maybe that's why there's so much love and joy in it. 🥰

[@judyallhands3361]

i didn't have the best background fabric for a quilt I was making so I had some Kona snow which is great but I wanted something more cream so I tea dyed 2 yards of it and it turned out a good shade for my quilt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What excellent problem-solving, Judy! 🤓 I will keep that in mind if I end up wanting to warm up my off-white background fabric!! ❤️ Thank you for sharing!

[@Stacy-iu6ch]

Hi the orange peel is going to be stunning when you are done. And you will get it done. Just keep plodding along. Can you put a few notes in the pile of squares or fabric to remind yourself the thing you would like to do while making this quilt? Like “This fabric is fragile, try not to finger press,” Hopefully you won’t get blood on it but sweat and tears may come. Be okay with that. BTW orange is my favorite color. Now get it ,Girl.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Stacy, thank you so much! ❤️ Now that I can see how it will come together, I'm starting to be really excited about it. The notes suggestion is a great one---I think I will do exactly that! 🤓 Thanks for the encouragement---maybe next time I'll have a LOT of progress to show for my "plodding along!"

[@cynthiaburja3526]

The orange peel quilt is going to be stunning! I love it. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cynthia! ❤️

[@genevievegiella9066]

I LOVE 💕 IT ALL ….. I CANT WAIT TO SEE THEM FINISHED…..

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Genevieve!❤️

[@abigailthompson4456]

The Pittsburgh Steelers logo includes some orange peels. But your quilt is much more lovely....

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

The Stillers!! I never thought of that...but COOL! ❤️

[@AvivaHadas]

This year, I am finishing (to the top or other defined stopping point) what I start. I can easily, do this block, do that block - it got out of hand so I decided to try "get this one to the top then move on to the next one" so far so good. But watching this video reminded me of my natural tendencies & I still have a lot of UFO's to prove it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I’m at that place where I’m mostly ok with have several WIP’s but trying to keep an eye on “finishing” as well-finding that balance of long range projects and quick finishes isn’t easy for me, but I think it will be good to have a little of both so I can have both immediate satisfaction AND the reward of a long project. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. 😉

[@gwyenotter6414]

Cathy when you were talking about how you finger pressed each and every seam on those peel blocks, to the extreme😊. I thought, why don’t you use a mini iron, wouldn’t that be less likely to damage, warp the fabric out of shape and give your mind a sense of peace that the seams were pressed well?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Gwyen, I probably could use a mini iron, but I also probably just need to lighten up a bit (or a lot) on the finger pressing. 😂😉🤓

[@annettemaxie-mahmoud2390]

Love all the quilts! ❤ Can’t wait to see them completed. 🎉 I am working on 2 quilts right now but have many more in mind!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Annette!❤ it is amazing how many quilts I can consider at any given time!

[@Siennaflower]

I love your sparkle quilt!! Both the colors and the pattern. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks so much!!❤

[@gailnt1955]

Hi, Cathy, All your blocks are so beautiful but I really love the star blocks. That pattern is going on my todo list. Thanks for making videos.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Gail! ❤️ I have to tell you, there is something really special about that Quilty Stars pattern! I don't know what it is but I just love it.😘

[@elizabethcollins8817]

I admire your attention to color detail. It’s truly awe-inspiring ✂️🧵🪡

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Elizabeth! ❤️

[@elizabethcollins8817]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I have found a beautiful linen shirt and I immediately thought of you. If I send you a screenshot, can you tell me if you would be able to use it?

[@jennypare9564]

Love the video as always! You have been very busy. I am notorious for starting something new while have other quilts to finish as well. I always want to see what “ one block” will look like… then it snowballs from there! Have a wonderful week ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jenny, me too!! Those "one block" experiments get me excited and energized and the next thing I know I've got another dang WIP on my hands! 😂 LOL. Wandering eyes, I guess.🤷🏻‍♀️ Hope your weekend is delightful and you get a lot of sewing done on your WIPS!!

[@karonwostenholme6533]

😊 lovely , enjoyed watching. Can’t wait to see them finished xx

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Karon!❤

[@caitlinmatthews1401]

Fun to see all your progress and thought process. You are very organized! But what is that beautiful, colorful one on the wall????

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Gurrrrrllllll---it's in development!! If it comes together, you know I'll be tell you ALL about it!! 🤞🏻🤓❤️

[@cathyfromcanada637]

Love the scrappy stars❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cathy! ❤️ Name buddy! 🥰

[@davidhatfield5714]

Loved the second design so much! Looks so modern ❤❤(KH)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, K! ❤️

[@teresavicars9989]

My goodness what a treat seeing all your wips. I love Fridays because I get to enjoy a lovely video full of inspiration, love and joy.💞😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww!! Thank you, Teresa! ❤️

[@cathypearson3823]

For your daughter's quilt background dilemma, you might want to look ar a 'stone' color. Not bright white, not yellow tinged. Might look good with the black and navy.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Cathy, that's a wonderful idea! Thank you for the suggestion! 🤓👍🏻

[@LanaGB05]

I have noticed, but I assumed you planned it, it looks so goooood❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you! ❤️

[@jillcooper172]

Cathy have been watching you for a bit now and do love, love all of your ideas. I decided to make the Magnolia quilt after seeing yours and have just finished up the top yesterday. Am trying to figure out what direction I should do on quilting it now so can't wait to see what you have come up with. Thank you Cathy for another great video. You and Paul do a great job on them.🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jill!! ❤️ I have yet to settle on quilting ideas, but I will let you know (or I will do a video on it LOL) Thanks for the support and for watching and commenting! 🥰 Also, how awesome is that Magnolia Quilt pattern, right?!

[@jeanettewithrow9641]

Have you tried one of those little hand roller for pressing? You are so funny. I enjoy your channel. Thanks

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I haven't but I wonder if it might be worth trying! 🤓👍🏻 And thank to you for watching and commenting! ❤️

[@henrietteguilliot4887]

Your hair looks nice!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you! ❤️

[@nevafitzgerald2402]

Good Friday morning love the orange color way.❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ahh thank you, Neva!❤

[@davidhatfield5714]

The orange peel/ crust..second design..😂 (KH)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Or third!! 😂

[@autumn88310]

Kathy, I went to my local thrift store and purchased 4 men's shirts. One was a Hawaiian print and just loved the color. When I started cutting it apart and pulled a part of it just tore so easily. My question is: is it rotten and should I even try to use it? Is there some way to tell if it's rotten before I purchase it? you have so many great ideas!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Catalina, I have had a few shirts that tore easily as well---when they are very thin or tear easily, they can be very challenging to work with and might not hold up well in a quilt. I don't know if they have degraded, or are simply worn, or just very thin to begin with---go with your gut. You can always stabilize them with interfacing if you decide they are simply thin and need a little bulk to make them work well in your quilt. I have a few shirts that I abandoned when I felt like they were falling apart as I cut them down into fabric. Hope this helps! 🤓

[@GottaDance56]

Robin Pickens designed Thatched. I'm obsessed...I have about 30 FQs. And I want more. Help me. Lol.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, my goodness why couldn’t I remember Robin Pickens! Thank you! And yes, I love that print so much too! ❤

[@jennjennedington279]

For this particular condition there is no cure but to have it all… all the colors. I feel you. I bought a box of 63 different fat quarters of botanical blenders when Craftsy went out of business. No regrets.

[@GottaDance56]

@@jennjennedington279 You are correct that there is no cure. I thought I was bad with Kona, but the subtle pattern on Thatched adds just enough texture to make a project of all solids more interesting.

[@deewright3329]

My mom always told me if you see it when you gallop by on a horse then you can worry about it

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Great advice! 😂❤️😘

[@marybeth4002]

I love that - I need to remember that for many aspects of life :)

[@billclason1]

Kona Snow almost always works !

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Thanks for the suggestion! ❤️

[@kentvegplot]

Thinking of the graduation quilt - if it were mine I wouldn’t want to include a colour from the ‘warm’ group, since you’re using black/blue which are ‘cool’. So nothing which reads as cream. A very, very pale blue-grey (which reads as grey, not blue) might work? It would have to be a cool grey (think bright white with a little ink dropped into it, no brown tinge). Does that help at all?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I can definitely see where you’re coming from on this-and I do love a cool color palette! We’ll see where my daughter takes it-she has a great eye for color and if she settles on cream, you can bet it will be pretty! ❤

[@coreygilles847]

I made a quilt for my brother several years ago and I let him choose the fabrics for it…and then spent over a year working on it and absolutely disliking every moment of it because the colors just drained me. But he does adore it. However, that was the last time I let anyone choose the fabrics

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL! Corey, I have quilting friends who have similar stories---quilts that suck the life out of them because of the fabrics and colors! 😱 I guess we''ll just have to wait and see how it goes with my baby girl's quilt! I sure do hope I enjoy working with all these black fabrics! 🤞🏻🤓

[@jennjennedington279]

I FEEL YOU! I want to say I will never again do a quilt someone else chose fabrics for but I probably will….

[@fallenangel1049]

Think gray blue, not blue and whites try a silvery white and those may work better…(think angry blue stormy sky)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I definitely think a cool color palette could work---I guess we'll just have to see where the colorist takes it! 😊

[@LanaGB05]

I wonder if you would put a sashing between these blocks, and cornerstones. 🤔 ❓️❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lana, that is an interesting question/suggestion! But baby girl is a purist and wants a whole black and white checkerboard so this one won't have sashing or cornerstones!

[@juliasander1680]

What is the quilt that was on the wall with this episode? Is that something I have missed? Looks very interesting! Great episode!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Julia! ❤️ You haven't missed anything---it's in development! 😘 If and when it comes together, I will DEFINITELY share all about it!

[@MsFitz134]

I am curious how you store your hoard of thrifted fabric sources (shirts, etc). I am overwhelmed because I seem to collect them far faster than I can use them and my basement is beginning to look like its own thift store. 🤦🏼‍♀️ Send help!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Fitz--me too, really. But I do have a system AND I did a video about it! So here it is if you want to watch: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXTUf3xrrr2smM0 I will be honest, though, and say I have a pile of shirts beside my desk that looks like something that needs to be bagged up and taken to the thrift store itself. LOL. The struggle is REAL. 😱😂❤️

[@MsFitz134]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts ahh thanks for the link! Glad to know I'm not alone. ❤️

[@ImHome-yl4ur]

New to your channel. Trying to catch up. Do you only machine piece and quilt? I only hand piece and quilt. I also thrift 90% of my fabric! I’ve only made about 25 quilts, since I was 18. I’m 59.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Welcome! ❤️ Yes, I only machine piece and machine quilt. Love a fellow thrifter and fabric upcycler! I think 25 quilts is amazing no matter how old you are or how long you've been quilting! 😘

[@giselleyoung3248]

Wondering if you have looked at and considered a white in the Moda Grunge fabric?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I haven't, but that's a great idea! 🤓 Thanks for the suggestion!

[@katem1105]

You need to get a clapper

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I have one! (And it’s great-I just over-press by nature! 😂)