On My Sewing Table -

[@annerankin1191]

Quilting your own quilt is challenging because when you are doing it, you are 6” away and EVERY LITTLE mistake is in your face. But as a public viewing NO ONE will notice!!!! Keep going and ignore your critical self!!!! You should be so proud of yourself for the challenge of your Quilt Con submission! I am proud of you as I’m sure your family is. Your submission is so thoughtful. Love your thread choices and facing! Keep going! XOX

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ahhh, thank you, Anne!! ❤️ I so needed this encouragement! You are so right about being 6” away and seeing every little mistake! Thank you for your kind and supportive words-it means the world to me! ❤️

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

This is so so true!!! I quilt my own as well, (mostly because well, I’m cheap😆) but also because I like the satisfaction I get from completing my quilt all on my own! And yes when the quilt is six inches away, and you are fighting to stuff it through the throat, and you loose bobbin chicken… it can be frustrating. Now when I make a mistake I try to remind myself to just be quiet and tell no one because unless they judge quilts, no one but you is going to find the mistakes!

[@PaperDiva67]

Once the quilt is complete and washed so many errors just disappear! That’s the magic of quilting 🎉

[@yvetteheartso3406]

I love straight line quilting. It makes the piecing stand out. Great job on your entry quilt. Very beautiful.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Yvette! ❤️ I love *other people's* straight line quilting--mine feels a lot less "straight line" right now than I'd like! 😂

[@EOgma]

The fact that you are quilting your "artsy" quilt really makes it yours. I quilt all my quilts on my home machine, for 20 years. Watching Angela Walters has stretched my quilting skills and now I'm quilting swirls and all sorts of things. Anyway, your flying geese look great. I haven't done those in years, but I'm going to try them again. Yes, Tiny Orchard is a fabulous channel. Oh, I wanted to mention.....I just made a "thank you" quilt for a friend, Christmas theme, and used a man's plaid shirt in it, thanks to your inspiration. Saved me a lot of money actually. Thanks for all your ideas!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Anita! ❤️ This one definitely is all mine--the bad AND the good! Thanks for your encouragement! It makes my heart so happy that you made a friend a quilt and used a men's plaid shirt in it--how wonderful! 🤩😍 I hope you had fun making it! 😊

[@DebbieWolgemuth]

Straight line quilting is the bomb on modern quilts. This stood out to me when I attended the Austin TX Modern Quilt Festival in early 2021. I ~LOVE~ facing vs the dreaded binding! You can do QAYG is big sections, like your sample, then join them together for the big quilt. I challenge you to do a future project in big QAYG sections. It's all about stretching us on our quilting journey. The sample will make a great pillow...or part of a pillowcase for the quilt to travel in to its show destination! Go forth and prosper CatBird!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Debbie! ❤️ I haven't done a QAYG project (as you know) but maybe when I clear out some of my WIP's that will be next!!

[@marybeth4002]

Oh, but it does look like a lot!!! You've got your quilting fingers in many projects and I am loving that you are sharing them all. So happy to see progress in the graduation quilt - your daughter will be so excited. The pink shirts hanging on your design wall give me inspiration just by looking at it while trying to stay focused on the video :)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Many. Quilting. Projects. 😱😂❤️ Thank you, Mary Beth, about the graduation quilt-I’m definitely starting to feel like it’s getting there! And as for the pink shirts-me too!!! 💕👚

[@shellyculver4239]

I needed to hear you say the practice quilt is so important. I’ve never done a practice block or a practice quilt. I think it’s high time to start doing it because I need to take my skills to a new level. Both of your quilts- practice & “real” are stunning & makes me want to make similar! Thank you for your time!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shelley!❤️ the practice block/quilt concept is so great in theory (and works) but in practice can feel counterproductive for sure! Worth it tho!! 🤓😊

[@leeannlively]

Here is a little tip for facing your quilt: cut 4 squares @ 3 1/2", fold each in half and place them in the corners then add your strips. Cuts out the bulk in the corners.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, LeeAnn for the suggestion! ❤️

[@cb2378]

Cathy (and Paul!)... that was a chock-full of info video. I'm so glad I do my routine with y'all: start the video then immediately pause it to observe your background. Be it your sewing area or living room (love, love that print above the couch). Once I got the oohs and ahhs I'm able to focus on all that you have to say and show us. Thank you, thank you for sharing your lives with us. You guys invest SO much more time than what the video time stamp says. To use a phrase from Avatar: I see you. 💞 With respect, Carol p.s. Pink in October = breast cancer awareness. Your background selection is perfect

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, Carol! Thank you. It's nice to be seen. ❤️ I thought about breast cancer awareness/pink in October this morning! Maybe that's why I'm drawn to pink right now? 🤷🏻‍♀️💕

[@tinster01]

Always here for a chat. Love your quilts and chats.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Tinster! ❤️

[@MsAmberSunshine]

I agree I like fabrics that complement Kaffe. That celebrates the beauty. Less confusing for my eye.

[@shannoneaster9311]

~Pink shirts! 👚👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 ~The checkered flag of graduation quilt! 🏁 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 ~Kaffe flying geese! 💥👏🏼👏🏼 ~The Quilt Con tiny practice quilt! 💙❤️💛❤️🧡👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 My heart is pounding, I’m inspired, I’m so impressed, and I’m so proud of you!!! Three cheers for creative endeavors in our lives!!! You’re an inspiration and a wonderful quilty friend to everyone Cathy.❤ I’m so glad you made the practice quilt to work out some common issues prior to digging into the larger, higher stakes quilt. And you have a tiny version for display also! I sense you might prefer making quilt tops to the actual quilting process as much as I do. We “toppers” are incredibly inspired by fabrics and creating beautiful combinations of colors. Less so by the mechanics of quilting, although if we had a big ‘ol long arm quilting machine we’d likely get into painting with thread as well. Enjoyed your video and loved seeing an update on your projects very much. You’re on fire girl!!! 🔥 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you, Shannon! ❤️ I’m humbled and pleased from all the praise! I think you’re right-the mechanics and quilting part are definitely not a joy for me! And I agree completely: if I had a longarm machine, I’d have to do something out of the box (painting with thread sounds amazing, btw 🤩) for it to be a joyful experience. I have so much respect and appreciation for the “quilters” out there-it’s not easy and yet it’s a huge part of the impact of the final quilt! 😳😍 As you say, though, I’m *definitely* a “topper!” 🤓👍🏻❤️

[@angielovett4159]

You watch all my favorite KZbin quilters! I love your quilting choice and the great flying geese! I’m excited to see what you do with them. Your videos are so fun and inspiring. Thank you! 💕⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Angie! ❤️ It’s fun to share our favorites and even better when the response is, “oh I watch her too! I love her!”

[@ladyjane3660]

I so admire your initiative in entering your quilt into the show. I SO hope you get selected to display it. I laughed at your remark about swearing and almost crying as you quilted. My brother-in-law quipped about me and my sister-in-law that "it's strange how they claim they love sewing so much, but you wouldn't know it by all the swearing they do." Some people just don't get it. I have never considered doing a facing but can see where it would be the best option on some quilts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jane! ❤️ I hope it gets selected too! And I laughed about your brother-in-law's remark; swearing and sewing are like peas and carrots: they go together! 😂

[@christinahall3318]

YOU ARE AMAZING! Look at you - only quilting for a bit over a year and already entering a quilt in QuiltCon! WOW!!! I’m so happy for you and your quilt design is absolutely fabulous!!! I love the quilting pattern you chose as well. Sometimes we have to use patterns that do not compete with the design. This diagonal line is one of my favorites! The graduation quilt - let me just say FABULOUS! I love black & white ANYTHING! Now let’s get down to the AWESOME! Just kidding! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the wall of pink shirts! You should photograph that and hang the photo in your sewing room or do a series of different colored shirts! That would be so lovely! You are so talented and beautiful! Love ya sis!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Christina! ❤️ (ok so quilting 2 years now but YES---crazy for entering a quilt to QuiltCon!) And thank you about the quilting design! I generally don't have a vision for the quilting, but this one felt "right" to me. Sis, I have got some fun pink things coming soon to the channel--I think you're going to LOVE it! 🤩😍🤓

[@christinahall3318]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts EXCITED 😜

[@happynanna4749]

Oooohhh. Wonderful, fun video chock full of great ideas and information! I love to watch Pat Sloan (EVERY DAY!), too. I sure hope she gets to see this video and hear your “plug” for her colorful threads. ❤️ Good luck with the Quilt Con!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Nanna! ❤️

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

I miss Tiny Orchard Quilts channel. She took a break from it and I haven’t seen a new one posted in some time. I check her store though as well hoping to see new patterns and maybe an update. Still go back and watch her videos though as she was a great teacher. Both her and Karen from Just Get Er Done are such great technicians and teachers. And I use them as my primary tools when learning new techniques or great reminders on how to do something properly.

[@jennjennedington279]

I do the same, checking for updates regularly. Great teacher and delightful to watch

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Same. 😊🤓

[@sugarspiceverrier3778]

I have done that quilt pattern flying home, after I've seen your video, with old shirts of my uncle who pass away in juin for a memory quilt for my auntie, took me 2 days ... I like your video thanks for sharing be bless from Québec, Canada.. pss can't wait too see your quilt Flying Home....

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh wow, Sugar--2 days?!! That's amazing. I bet your shirt memory quilt was so wonderful! ❤️ Thanks for watching and you know you'll be seeing more of that Flying Home quilt on the channel (hopefully soon!)

[@jeanettewithrow9641]

I admits you for putting a quilt in a Quilt Con. I quilt my quilts because just too expensive to have them quilted. Just takes longer. Your quilts are beautiful. Thanks for video

[@susanlee1827]

For the looove….of all things good and holy. I’m laying in my bed at 2am watching quilting videos. Having a really catastrophic week in my own head….and when you said that? I am still giggling. I just love your vocal Wandering. You are so much like me as far as having a lot to say about the subject. Thanks for giving me a needed giggle.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol, Susan! 😂 I know, I just can’t help it. But I’m glad you got a laugh and I’m happy that my quirky vocal style is enjoyable for you. ❤️ I think a lot of us quilters “have a lot to say” which is probably why I enjoy the community of viewers for my YT channel so much! Just wonderful, opinionated (but supportive) folks who share their thoughts-I love it! ❤️

[@katiehope9565]

i *LOVE* four at a time flying geese but MAN does it feel so weird the whole time. A master class in "trust the process"! Also, I should add - I feel there's a distinction between submitting a quilt without any skill and submitting a quilt without twenty years of experience, and you are certainly NOT the former.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Katie. ❤️ and yes, the weirdness of the 4 at a time flying geese!! I lost count the number of times I thought, “is this right?!?”

[@caroledw4479]

I love your descriptions and sense of humor. ❤❤❤ 😂 ty for sharing your quilting challenge with us. Im inspired to try one myself soon.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carol! ❤️ I can be pretty silly---but I do get a good laugh either way! 😂 I'm so glad you're inspired to try a quilting challenge! I say, "Do it!"

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

I can’t wait to see your finished scrap challenge quilt!! Another fine video as always!! Now, I have to wait for the next installment!! Greetings from MN!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Christina! ❤️ And oh my goodness--Minnesota! Has it started getting cold up there yet?

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

It is cooler for sure, the leaves are falling, the air is clean (it rained for a day and a half) and it’s perfect weather for long sleeve flannel shirts, tasty soup and hot chocolate! I will keep you updated when the snow flies, usually around Thanksgiving.@@TheCatBirdQuilts

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh so jealous! We are just now getting below 80-degrees! 😱

[@beckyezra1]

it is beautiful, as art, as quilt, as the level of sewing, you are great!! bless.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Becky! ❤️ My vision outmatches my skill in quilting and sewing, but I'm getting there! Thank you so much for the encouragement! 🥰

[@carolg.6838]

It's always a pleasure to see a new video and how you came up with the idea and that learning something new ir not, quilting can be laborious and not always as easy as we would think. Thanks for reminding me of Tiny Orchard Quilts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carol, and you're welcome! ❤️

[@Cassandra-..-]

Ahh, color therapy! That thread pack is like a shot of B12.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Cassandra, YES!! You get me. ❤️

[@PaperDiva67]

So smart to create a practice piece! I love the change up in the quilting! I’ve done this with more of a serpentine pattern. I’m not sure if you have yet started the quilting but if you want your quilting to sink into the back then just use a neutral thread on the back. There’s a book called Walk by Jaquiline Gehring that is invaluable for straight line quilting. I’m so proud of you for putting yourself out there for entering your quilt, it’s beautiful! Good luck 🍀

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Adrienne! ❤️ I *have* started quilting and did consider using a neutral thread on the back, but I knew that the threads from the front might peek through and I thought, "Well, may as well echo the design on the back!" knowing it was a risk that the lines on the back would be so obvious! Risk indeed! 🤦🏻‍♀️ On the upside, as I've done more and more of the lines, they look significantly less squiggly!🤓👍🏻 Thank you for the book recommendation and for the encouragement! 🥰

[@silver_csmith]

Loving how the graduation quilt is coming along!! 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you. Charity❤️! It’s getting there!

[@maryjokruer6127]

So excited to see your progress on the challenge quilt! Your facing makes it absolutely perfect along with the great quilting!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mary Jo! ❤️

[@teresamcfadden2414]

Please remember a “sleeve” on the back just incase you get accepted to send you quilt in the for the show. Awesome job on the practice quilt and learning you “weaknesses” so that you know what you have to work on. My family tell me all the time that I should admit some of my quilts that I make up, I have yet to even try it. So CONGRATULATIONS on doing it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Teresa! I read in the rules today that QuiltCon sends a description for what they want for a sleeve if the quilt get accepted--so let's hope I get that! If your family tells you all the time that you should submit your quilts to an event, then it's definitely time for you, too! ❤️ (If I can do it, you can too!!)

[@lisaulrich8549]

Your quilt ideas are SO nice! I just got some men's shirts at VOA and one is pink! I love it and don't want to break it down. I may wear it around the house it's that comfy! 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lisa! ❤️ When I found my first white linen men's shirt, I couldn't bring myself to break it down (either) so I just started wearing it as a nightshirt and/or a knock-around-the-house and sewing shirt! 😍 It absolutely perfect for all those purposes and I love it and don't regret keeping it for my own use! 🤓👍🏻

[@debbietrapp7757]

Good morning Cathy, and Happy Friday the 13th 😊 hang in there you are on the home stretch on on the quilt con quilt. ( easy for me to say) I loved the flying geese, I to hate cutting off those little triangles also 😋. The graduation quilt is going to be so amazing, black and white is a favorite color combination for me, can’t wait to see it finished, and something your daughter will cherish always. 😍 As always love watching you! Have a wonderful weekend!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, my dear Debbie! ❤️ You are among a few others who have reminded me that it is the home stretch and I'm grateful to you all!! And thank you for the compliments about the graduation quilt--I do think it will be interesting with such high contrast piecing! 🤓 I hope you have a delightful weekend as well!

[@allisonlucero1345]

I love watching your videos, you make me laugh! Love your sense of humor. Thank you 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you so much, Allison! ❤️

[@everythingquiltsdonna]

I think you did a great job. The design is beautiful too.

[@gisellejones1139]

Interesting video as usual. You're in the home stretch with your art quilt now and the quilting will be lovely.Those threads are beautiful 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Giselle---aren't those threads just absolutely gorgeous?! Seriously, I just am so enthralled every time I open that box! 🤩 And thanks for the "home stretch" comment--I need that reminder! ❤️🤓

[@pamelafowler4406]

I agree blacks and also whites can be tricky to match or arrange in a quilt. They both come in so many variations.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that thinks this!

[@bonnie8522]

I just love seeing your progress on your projects! I’ve just picked up several shirts and I’m in the disassemble process.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Bonnie! ❤️ I hope you have fun breaking down your shirts! 👍🏻

[@shellyculver4239]

Oh I stayed til the end!!! Love your pinks in the design board & CANNOT wait to see the progress & finish of the graduation quilt!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Thanks for staying! ❤️

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

Perfect timing! I was trying to decide whether to use the same white fabric in a men’s blue dress shirt checkered quilt similar to yours. You have convinced me! Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! So glad I could help! ❤️ When it's done, send me photos via email or Instagram (if you want)---I'd love to see your checkerboard quilt finished!

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

Have you ever heard of the platform The Mighty Network? It appears to work like Patreon (paid subscriptions) but subscribers can more easily add content - pictures etc. I like the idea of Patreon but it seems to only be a one way street except for comments. Just a thought it may be something for you to investigate as an alternative since you have soooo much spare time!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for the suggestion! yes, in all my free time (ahem!) I will definitely check it out!

[@abigailthompson4456]

I love your Quilt Con quilt and its mini-me version. Thanks for the link for quilt facing instructions - I like Tiny Orchard too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Abigail! ❤️ and you’re welcome!

[@cassieplayford634]

I love your work. Absolutely stunning. Thanks for sharing your progress! 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cassie! ❤️

[@debrajohnson4812]

I've just watched a KZbin about quilt facings using triangles in the corners which looks quite easy and reduces the bulk in the corners. It was on Lessons Learnt, a good video.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I watched that video! It's a good one. I do think the triangle thing is smart, but I wanted that clean line/frame for the Rothko quilt. 🤓👍🏻

[@jennamckenzie647]

Great idea on the quilting👍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jenna! ❤️

[@jennamckenzie647]

You are welcome! And I was going to mention, now you can make your “practice” quilt a wall hanging. I’m thinking I need to make my own-It is art 🖼️ after all 😊

[@kktowne6992]

Practice quilts are like knitting a gauge swatch!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh so true! (And I resist doing those too! 😂)

[@kktowne6992]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts for sure! And usually to our sorrow! 😂

[@annettemaxie-mahmoud2390]

Beautiful work on all projects! ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Annette!❤️

[@laverywendy]

Excited to try the flying geese method. Love the quilting pattern for the Rothko - also the facing in red will be fabulous. My daughter would love your daughter’s graduation quilt too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Wendy! ❤️ I think you’re gonna enjoy the 4-at-a-time flying geese method! I don’t know how old your daughter is, but it seems like my daughter’s generation, in general, loves the dark and spooky thing!

[@Daniel5150You]

Thanks for sharing

[@sherryedwards5978]

All great projects I’m excited to see completed. My best, Sherry

[@giselleyoung3248]

Thank you for sharing your practice quilt! ❤ so glad you decided to try a facing. In May 2023 I took a Ricky Tims online class called "Loco Motion" and he taught us how to do a facing (totally new to me). I think it's the right choice for your challenge quilt. Good Luck finishing the quilting the big one!🤞

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Giselle! ❤️ I wasn’t sure I was going to like the facing, but then I really did! And thank for the good luck wishes-feeling like I might need some luck to get it done! 😱😂😘

[@glynisreynolds446]

When turning your strips of blocks for the graduation quilt, if you are really bothered by the ‘upside down’ blocks you could always unpick one block from the top and sew it to the bottom - a bit of extra work, but if it’s really noticeable then it might be worth it 🤔 So looking forward to seeing the graduation quilt finished 🤔👍 Love four at a time flying geese - like you I think it’s such a waste to trim off all those corners 😮😳 You seem to have gathered up pink shirts - suddenly I have found about four or five 🤔🤔 Not sure what I’m going to do, but it’s going to be gorgeous 🤞🤞 Big thank you to both for another great video 👏👏🇬🇧

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Glynis!❤️ I hadn’t thought of unpicking-it’s an excellent suggestion. I will admit, the upside down rows don’t really bother me (surprising, I know!) I don’t know what’s up with me and pink shirts, but I’m loving them!👚💕 Glad to know I’m not the only one! ❤️

[@pamwalker7307]

Sometimes I use string or yarn and lay it down different ways on my quilt top so I can kind of see what my quilting will look like.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Pam, so smart! 🤓 What a great idea! ❤️

[@sally-anneshotter9174]

Love the mini quilt,

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sally! ❤️

[@lauracurnan3255]

Good morning, looks like you have done so much, on a few different projects. Loving the black and white. And can't wait for the pink to be something great. Hugs from Tampa.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Good morning! And thank you, Laura!❤️

[@Siennaflower]

I really like that knife edge border! It perfectly suits the quilt! Also fun to see your daughter's quilt pieces. I've been into black & white for a couple years, though I hated both of them years ago! I just finished knitting a black & white check pullover with a matching bunny. I like just black & white, but they also make a great contrast when paired with bright colors. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Siennaflower! ❤️ I’m a fan of black and white too-although I lean toward stripes more than checks!

[@Siennaflower]

​@@TheCatBirdQuiltsStripes are great too! ❤

[@liliangel825]

When I don’t want to use binding in a quilt I have placed the backing right sides to the quilt top, sewn three sides with a quarter inch s.a., turned the quilt out and blind stitched the fourth side by hand. The final step was to quilt the whole piece.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I love this idea! 🤓❤️ And I'm actually in the process of preparing for a video that talks about different types of edge-finishing and this is one of them---but I never thought about doing it on a whole quilt!! 🤩

[@liliangel825]

The quilt that I made using this “no binding” technique was about a 60” x 60” quilt and worked nicely. I did tie the quilt instead of machine or hand quilting it. I don’t imagine it would be any different quilting but one would probably need to stop a certain distance from the finished edges or there would be a chance of puckering.

[@MarySears]

I love the seeing your progress on the graduation quilt, what size are the strips of fabric that you sew together for the strip sets? The warm tones of the KF fabric with the white really pops, you did an amazing job on the flying geese! Can’t wait for your next video, I think I’m going to have to join Patreon so I can see more of your work! I LOVE your quilt con quilt too!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mary! ❤️ The strips are 4" X 16"---big enough to be easy and quick, but not so big that they feel oversized! And as for Patreon, I'd love to have you in the community there! 🥰

[@SewGurl58]

Not that you need any OCD suggestions, but…..I love my Aurifil collections and I like to keep track of where they belong. I actually make small labels of the thread color number and put them in the bottoms of the compartments.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Gurl, I definitely do NOT need any encouragement to have that level of organization of my Aurifil threads, but just know that if I came to your sewing room and saw that, I'd let out a big, "Ooooohhhh!" 🤩❤️

[@brendafrye5875]

Yes yes Quiltcon in Raleigh NC. I hope you go and will be so excited if can meet you. I think your quilt is just plain amazing. Do I sound like I'm from the south or what.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Brenda, I will be at QuiltCon in Raleigh whether the quilt makes it in or not-so look for me! I’d love to meet you! ❤️ And yes, “plain amazing” sounds like a Southern girl to me! 😘

[@pamelagreen8543]

You can still miter the corners on the back to minimize the bulk 😊

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

Thanks for another fun video. I love the combination of pink and yellow. Just a thought.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ooohhh. Pink and yellow! What a great suggestion! 🤓👍🏻 And thank you so much, Nicole!❤️

[@vanillayogurt5650]

Wow! I love love love your art quilt…and I love the quilting design. Baste, baby, baste!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sissie! ❤️ I put SO many safety pins in that during basting---and it *still* could have used more!!😱 Next time I get this hare-brained idea, I'm coming to you for longarming! And I'm so glad you like the quilting design--it means a lot that you approve! 🤓🥰

[@vanillayogurt5650]

Have you tried spray basting? I’ve done it a few times on things I quilted with my domestic machine. And your art quilt would be a wonderful quilt to do…I may copy your design or something similar in the future….it’s beautiful and a perfect canvas for custom quilting! I cannot wait to see it hanging up in Raleigh!!! Positive thoughts! 😘💕💕💕

[@cece624]

I wouldn’t worry about the directional fabric being viewed in two directions. Because, there are no worries about which way the quilt is placed on a bed.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I hadn’t thought of that! 🤓👍🏻

[@pattytimon9050]

The walking foot should have a hole for the little metal spacer bar which eliminates the tape. Can you make a video on the rules of submission for Quilt Con?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Patty, it *should*-but for my particular sewing machine, it does not have that feature. Crazy, right?! I have a friend with the same machine and she taped a metal spacer bar to the machine! Lol 😂 I will probably talk about the rules for submission when we do a Quilt Story video on this quilt! 🤓👍🏻

[@valerievesper9216]

I’ve been custom quilting a couple panel quilts made with the National Parks panels from Riley Blake. OMG. Trying to find matching thread is not easy. Only one shop in my area has a good thread selection and you have to match colors in person. I think you did a great job with your color wash effect though!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Valerie! ❤️ And yes, my goodness, they really do need to be matched in person---which is challenging when there isn't a great quilting shop nearby! (and I'm terrible about returning ordered items, so I don't dare order with the intention of returning if it doesn't work out!) I bet your National Park panels are beautiful, though!

[@ninadukette3340]

Try different values of grey. It is a game changer.

[@Pablo-ys6pf]

Thanks Nina, I do sometimes use neutrals but on the solid sections of these panels it’s not quite as effective as I’ve found it in prints. I did use a dark gray recently in place of a deep teal I couldn’t find a match for.

[@privateinfo1711]

Sometimes Karen Brown has a red quilt made with all red HSTs behind her. I love it. A totally pink quilt would probably be nice. (Just saying!)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh that’s a great idea! 🤩🤓😘 Thanks for the suggestion!❤️

[@13goodbye]

I think it should be possible to have mitred corners on the facing, and to incorporate triangular corner pockets to hold a hanging batten

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ceridwen, there is a way to make the triangular pockets-which is cool-but not the look I wanted for the back of this project. I will definitely do that in the future though! I haven’t seen a way to make mitered corners with facing-but it does seem like it should be possible. Although I wonder if it would add to the bulk at the corner. Hmm. Just thought? 🤔🤷🏻‍♀️

[@maryt2887]

What weight thread are you using to quilt the challenge quilt? And what kind of batting? And what needle size? Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Mary, Aurifil 50wt. 90/14 and 100% low-loft batting. You're welcome! 🤓

[@conniemurdoch8528]

If you bash those thick corners with a rubber mallet the fabric kind of mashes and the fibres will soften and it becomes much easier to stitch through. I stole my husband’s construction hammer to bash the really thick seams or for installing snaps. Sometimes the job just really needs a hammer.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I've heard that you can use a tailor's clapper in the same way---but we certainly have a rubber mallet (and meat tenderizer with a flat side, and a hammer! lol!) if the clapper doesn't do the trick!

[@conniemurdoch8528]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts that’s two different uses. The mallet or hammer is when you are trying to sew through maybe the hem of your blue jeans and you come to the side seam. If you fold it up twice you are trying to sew through 9 layers of denim at least. Really hard to do with out softening the fibres. After you bash the heck out of it, the fibres are softened and mashed and you can stitch through it easily. You use a clapper when you press with your iron to open the seam and make it stay flat. If you want todo a better job you hold the heat in with something flat. That flat heavy thing would be a clapper. Heavy holds the flat, and dense thick wood holds the heat in longer so your result is twice as good.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@conniemurdoch8528 that was my understanding as well (and the way I use my tailor’s clapper) but I recently saw someone use their clapper to smash a thick seam flat-and it seemed to work beautifully! I’ll try it and let you know! 🤓

[@conniemurdoch8528]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts now I get it. They were bashing with the clapper. I find the hammer or mallet might ……….. nothing, I have nothing.

[@julias.8236]

regarding the facing... if you put squares folded to triangles in the corners, the corners will not get so bulky. I had another tutorial in mind but I think this one shows it properly, too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGnHapaenNanoK8feature=shared Furthermore you can complete sewing and do the handstitching all in one go. Hope this helps 😊 Just saw, that you knew that option and decided against it 😂 next time I watch the complete video first befire trying to be helpful 😅

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Julie, it’s ok! I always appreciate it when viewers try to be helpful! ❤️

[@julias.8236]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Ha, now I just saw another tutorial where the edges are not that bulky since you do not fold them back. But maybe there is another downside. Anyhow, here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amPdkn-Dobmohrsfeature=shared Hope it's useful. I'm excited for you if your quilt will be shown at quiltcon. Hope so 😃

[@jpforehand7834]

How did you bind that practice quilt? It looks great. I love everything about this project.

[@jpforehand7834]

Thank you , for reading my mind and explaining in the video 😊.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You’re welcome, JP! It’s such a unique look, isn’t it? And immediately makes us quilters ask lots of questions: how did you do that?! 🤓❤️😘

[@amymcadams6043]

I love the pink shirts! so pretty hanging there. (And I see the foreshadowing based on the Patreon video...😉) Have you decided on a backing for your daughter's black and white quilt? I can't remember if you've said - maybe I missed it (or forgot is more likely)!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ahh, thank you, Amy! ❤️ it’s subtle, but it’s there. 😉 Haven’t decided on the back, but we do have some navy constellation and space-themed fat quarters that she want to use-I guess we’ll see! 🤓👍🏻

[@elkeleditzky6426]

Beautiful 💖

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Elle! ❤️

[@robynbecker3443]

Love the idea of a practice quilt. Why aren't you using a quilting template to make the straight lines? It makes sewing those straight lines perfect. I use the one from Sew Steady. Takes all the stress out. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Robyn! ❤️ I haven’t seen the quilting template from Sew Steady, but I will check it out! Thanks for the recommendation!🤓👍🏻

[@ninadukette3340]

The quilting template is for free motion.

[@marshamackay8745]

Check out lessons learnt amazing facing. She does triangles on the corners.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I have seen that video! Very cool if you want to have holders in the corner. 🤓👍🏻

[@conniemurdoch8528]

Hello Cathy Martin! I was thinking of you this week when I saw a lady taking 3 pairs of jeans and 3 plaid flannel shirts to “refashion”. She made a slim denim skirt, totally refashioned a pair of jeans, and made a denim/flannel skirt by using the very top of one pair of jeans. Then she sorted her flannel shirts by size and used 1 shirt for each row of gathered flannel tiers. She used the smallest shirt for the top and each larger shirt for the second and third tiers. All 3 items looked totally different from where they were when she began. It was very interesting to see someone else making use of shirts for fabric. You might notice the thrift store being kind of lacking in shirts now that people are catching on to your shirts for fabric aesthetic! Now you’ve done it, started a movement to take all the best shirts out of the thrift stores!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Connie, I love transformational videos like that! I'm not sure that I started the movement, but if it keeps shirts out of a landfill and people get beautiful second lives (quilts, clothes) out of them, then it's a WIN for everyone! ❤️

[@conniemurdoch8528]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts you bet it is.

[@Right-sides-together]

I’ve done a few small art pieces with facings and I love them, but I agree about the thickness in the corners. The next time I do a facing, I’m trying squares of fabric folded into triangles in the corner to reduce bulk. It seems like it will give me the look I want without all that fabric folded onto itself building up in the corners. This video is what I saw that made me want to try it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIiQYaacfJmlbs0si=3sp-b6iVuOpLGCHq

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sara, I considered that very thing, and like it as a solution for reducing bulk in the corners! 🤓 I think I was reluctant to use that method on this quilt because I didn’t want the triangles on the back. But I think I will try that method in the future if I want/need that clean edge look! 🤩😍👍🏻

[@katelindelof5023]

Why is there a swastika on the yellow fabric?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It’s a piece of peppermint candy.

[@katelindelof5023]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts It really threw me there for a minute. Thanks for clarifying. Love your videos.

[@nancymathisen9707]

I don’t think keeping directional fabrics oriented “correctly” all the time is necessary or especially interesting. If it mattered you would notice it before proceeding and would redo it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nancy, you are SO right. Honestly it really didn't *bother* me--I think I just noticed it. And indeed, if it mattered to me II would definitely unpick it! The longer I quilt, the more I realize those variations in the way fabric is turned (directional or not) can really add interest and movement to the end result!

[@shelleydavies349]

Looks like a red swastika on your practise quilt in the yellow gingham. Hope I am wrong.

[@AnniePA1960]

I just looked it up, and it does look like the right facing swastika, as opposed to the left facing, "Buddhist" symbol. Hmmm. Unless it's a pinwheel or something?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh gosh! It’s actually a lollipop, but I can see how you could see that! The fabric is actually covered in all sorts of lollipops and small peppermints-but of course without context there would be no way for you to know that. Apologies for any confusion and let me go on record saying I do not support white supremacy; Naziism, or any political or social movement that is antisemitic. But thank you for bringing it to my attention so that I could respond. ❤️