Why Quilting Gave This Retired Guy a New Mission

[@VirginiaSingleton-w9c]

For an inexpensive design wall you can hang a Dollar Store flannel backed table cloth. For a few extra dollars you can simply get a flat flannel sheet. Both work well and the material sticks to it without needing pins.

[@74artgrrl]

I was about to say the same 😊. Let’s all help spread the word and we can all save some money… for more fabric, of course!

[@Cassandra-..-]

Yes! And if you can find a checked one, all the better!

[@ShadowMoonFarms]

I bought flannel backed vinyl tablecloth yardage at Wal-Mart. It was on a roll right by their cutting table. Bigger than a tablecloth and didn't cost much. The idea of a flannel sheet is great. Even bigger and Jan should be sale time for bedding.

[@CazkiwiNZ]

You’ll definitely find at least one flannel flat sheet at a thrift shop! Even if it’s a kid king single flannelette sheet

[@michellem8284]

Thanks for the flannel sheet recommendation. 😊

[@SmilingPlayfulPup-wb4rh]

I have come to the realization that getting up to iron is go exercise, i have put my board in basment 10 steps up 10 steps down. With MS it keeps me moving❤. Keep quilting.....

[@c-kcountry-kiwi5294]

Good idea!

[@barryquilts]

That is very true. Did buy an ironing board last night.

[@VirginiaReitz]

My husband made my design wall with foam core insulation . We covered it with a tan flannel most blocks will just stick to the flannel. Also can pin right into it.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you - I think that is what I will do. How is the color working? I was thinking about a gray to hide wear?

[@RNKoriginalss]

@@barryquilts I have flannel flat sheet on mine... works great to wash first whichever flannel type you work... you can even get a wideback flannel... but it will collect strings not wear out really. ... a sticky roller takes off the strings and resets all the fun of your flannel but on the foam cor insulation board it is nice to pin heavy pieced blocks or quilt parts... not just a flat piece of fabric.

[@merrycmouse]

Yes, this is what I did, too. I used the pink styrofoam-like stuff from home depot. I covered mine with white flannel. I just like white. My only caution is to use a better quality flannel than I used or use batting to cover it instead. Things are always falling off of my wall if I don't pin them. My old wall had batting and things stuck better to it than this one. The great thing about them is that you can pin to them and they are super lightweight so they aren't heavy to try and hang.

[@kathleenmcginley4827]

@@barryquilts I used foam core too, but I used a mottled darker blues flannel because I like contrast.

[@dcinrb8538]

​@@barryquiltshead to the thrift store linen section . California King flat sheet will nearly cover a whole wall. Most are in solids, like white or soft grey. The January clearance sales at department stores are also a good source. Because of too many windows my cousin halved her design wall and used two dorm size twins (longer lengths) or two flannel backed table cloths. Bedsheets are also good choices for the backing fabric.

[@MarkHischebett]

Hi Barry! I'm also a retired person taking up quilting. I'm thoroughly enjoying it. Best of all it keeps me out of the fridge. I'm enjoying your videos , keep up the good work! Well done!

[@kathleenmcginley4827]

Just for fun, I search You tube for sewing room tours. It really helps define what works for you or not. You also pick up great ideas that long time quilters use. How they store fabrics and pieces really is an adventure into psychology, LOL!

[@littlejoan7473]

An adventure in psychology. OMG, yes!!

[@barryquilts]

You’re right, sewing room tours are fun to watch, and I love picking up tips.

[@claremoussaid9756]

For your first quilting project, you are doing great. Congratulations on your sewing room 🎉

[@barryquilts]

Thank you

[@Craftythrifter]

You’re doing really well! Keep going!!!❤

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!!

[@gomezpnp]

Now I know why your first quilt is so big, someone will LA it for you! That’s awesome, and brave of you making such a large first quilt. My first few were throw sizes.

[@barryquilts]

I did make a small charm quilt but yes this is a big goal 😎

[@zerozero9085]

I've been quilting for a number of years and my design wall....is still the floor. 😊

[@loiscaruthers7353]

You got it going on Barry, looks good.

[@tanglezest7601]

I love to piece without a plan. It takes more thought and more time, but you can come out with the most original quilts.

[@barryquilts]

Let’s hope so - I just hope in the end it evens out too to bottom

[@margarethastings6010]

Hi Barry, your quilt is looking good, I have been quilting for a good few years and I still don’t have a design wall and have know room to put one up, but it doesn’t stop me enjoying quilting,

[@annettesonneson3468]

I admire your get it right the first time attitude. I'm still working on that almost 3 years in! 😮

[@barryquilts]

Thank you

[@desleybartlett322]

Room looking good so far Barry. Your blocks will make a wonderful quilt. Can't wait to see it quilted. Your friends at the community centre seem like a nice bunch of ladies. Desley🇦🇺

[@barryquilts]

Thanks, I think they're a good group too

[@Creative-Chaos]

Your green and peach are great. They look nice together.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks - I was hoping those colors would work well together.

[@barbmckinlay5108]

I’m glad you’ve found a hobby you love Barry. You’re doing wonderful.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!

[@deborahprairiestitcher]

It is so nice to have a dedicated sewing space! Awesome progress on your quilt.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks! It’s coming along slowly but I’m loving it.

[@teresabaso323]

Barry, your piecing looks great! The variety of blocks is really nice too. It’s going to be beautiful when quilted. Nice color choice too.

[@barryquilts]

I appreciate your kind words!

[@LC-38338]

Thank you for sharing with us Barry! You encourage me to continue being active during my retirement. My only suggestion is for the pressing stage. Make sure your tension on the machine setting is not too tight because that may cause wrinkles on your blocks. Then press WHILE THE SEAM IS STILL CLOSED TOGETHER to set the seam, then open the seam and press open or to the side, which ever you choose. I have found this makes a big difference in the block looking flat and neat. Best of luck Barry and enjoy your quilting.

[@proud2bktsmama]

I noticed those wrinkles and came to say the same thing!

[@barryquilts]

Great advice! - I need to check that out

[@RNKoriginalss]

I am so excited to see your quilt top... I bet those ladies at the community center are really giddy to see your progress... Keep up the awesome sewing on your awesome Juki :) Kathi

[@barryquilts]

Thank you for your kind words! I’ll show it off soon.

[@WendyHein]

Just an idea for a design wall Barry. I bought a large flannelette sheet, 2 hook-like brackets and a timber pole a bit longer than the width of the sheet. Sewed a casing at the top of the sheet, screwed the brackets high up on the wall, making sure they were the correct distance apart threaded the pole through the casing and hung the whole contraption on the brackets. I can usually put my blocks on the sheet without even pinning, because the texture of flannelette seems to grip cotton fabric, but if they are on there for a while, just putting a pin in each top corner is no trouble.

[@debradollisson9551]

I started quilting a few years before retirement on a 50 year old Globe ( which was my mum's) . After a couple of beginner quilts I then upgraded as I knew that I wanted to continue quilting. 💜🇦🇺

[@barryquilts]

That’s fantastic- I just wanted to encourage people to not let having the top of the line or name brand stop someone from starting.

[@merilynnecohen2941]

You are doing so great! Keep up the fantastic work! Please know that while you are learning, you are also teaching us! I have been quilting for some time now, but I have picked up some tips and tricks from watching your videos!😊

[@barryquilts]

Wow - I really appreciate that! I didn’t plan on it so that is a great bonus. I was hoping to just possibly inspire someone to find what makes them happy.

[@willowhilldesigns7]

Glad to hear you’re in your sewing room. You’ll love having a dedicated sewing space. You’re doing great; keep on going!

[@barryquilts]

Thanks for the encouragement, I am really enjoying this new space!

[@GayleHallAZ]

I love your enthusiasm, Barry! The green and peach complement each other. I noticed that your seams are puckered in your blocks. There could be a few reasons that’s happening: 1. Have you checked the tension on your Juki? If you’re not sure how to set your tension by testing on the fabric you’ll be sewing, there are lots of videos out there that can help. If the top tension is too tight, your seams may pucker. 2. Do you set your seams before pressing to one side? You do this by pressing (I prefer using light steam) the stitched seam flat, right sides together, just as it is after stitching. Then you open the two pieces and press to one side, typically the dark side unless you’re pressing to nest the seams for later ease of joining within a block. 3. Another reason your seams may be puckering is due to shrinkage while ironing your pieces. 100% cotton shrinks, and it shrinks during ironing. Higher quality fabric typically shrinks less , but you mentioned that the green fabric was gifted to you. If it’s not 100% cotton and is being joined to a fabric that is, it will shrink less or not at all. This will cause your seams to pucker.

[@SmilingPlayfulPup-wb4rh]

Have quilted 40 years had a quilt shop and bought all over I think your blocks look great, wait till it's quilted . Love it. Keep it up, I love your encouragement to all. Thanks Hope

[@GayleHallAZ]

@@SmilingPlayfulPup-wb4rh I have 15 years on your experience, but I’m not sure how anything you said is relevant to my comment. I was merely wanting to be helpful and share some of the things I’ve learned in my 55 years of garment and quilting experience in case it might be of interest to Barry going forward. The puckers and seam tension is obvious to anyone who isn’t blind, but definitely will blend into the overall beautiful effects of quilting, especially after it’s washed. Seam tension can lead to thread breaks in those seams with use and handling, so if the issue that caused them can be resolved, I think anyone who enjoys their craft would appreciate the learning opportunity. At 75, I’m still learning! 😋

[@james-zl4il]

Man you're doing good! I still use my floor. Quilting is therapeutic.

[@cindy_lou_loves_to_stitch]

I am so excited for you and I am so inspired!! I can't wait to see your room and your finished quilt!! The blocks look great! 😊

[@barryquilts]

Thanks, I appreciate the encouragement!

[@Dranma51]

I like the Ops of peach!

[@SewingWithLawayne]

Hi Barry, congrats on getting into your sewing room.

[@barryquilts]

It’s coming together, slowly but surely!

[@AntisocialAuntie]

I'm so glad I just found your channel! A friend gifted me her mom's sewing machine and I am finally going to focus on sewing and learning to quilt this year. Another friend dropped off boxes of fabric so I don't have any excuse lol! You are inspiring. Lots of love from the Pacific Northwest 🧡

[@Cassandra-..-]

Tip for new quilters: join the next meeting of your local quilt guild! You can always “sample” a meeting as a guest, and if you decide to join, you will have a whole community of coaches for answering your questions and inspiring/encouraging you on your quilting journey. Special to the PNW commenter: there are many guilds in our area. Stray Threads in Woodinville, Quilters Anonymous in Shoreline, Seattle Modern Quilt Guild, etc., etc. Please consider joining one near you that fits your vibe.

[@AntisocialAuntie]

@Cassandra-..- Thank you for that suggestion - my channel name is clever in that I am very happy knitting at home. I will look around and ask the local library (I think quilters used to use the meeting room before Covid). And thank you for the specific suggestions 🧡

[@barryquilts]

That's awesome! It sounds like you are off to a great start!

[@AntisocialAuntie]

@@barryquilts The friend who gifted me the sewing machine has been nudging about me quilting for a few years. She even attempted knitting to put the pressure on HAHA! And your openness on this channel is very helpful for me to get over fear of perfectionism 🥰

[@cherylsmith3002]

I'm so impressed with your progress! We learn and improve as we go. Even after 30 quilts, I still make mistakes. It's all part of the process. I've even become friends with my seam ripper. Enjoy the journey!

[@barryquilts]

I’m getting to know my seam ripper too. One month ago I had never even used one and now it’s almost daily.

[@kathyeckert8052]

A very inexpensive design board is from Home Depot a large foam board covered with a flannel cloth. Works like a charm and a lot cheaper

[@barryquilts]

Thank you, I will look into that.

[@theclosetquilterelliemiria198]

oh barry so proud of you ! Wish you had a Cutie Frame to quilt that baby on :) your blocks look amazing ! I’ve started quilting with a big soft Cuddle blanket on the back of my quilts I love it !

[@barryquilts]

Thanks for the compliment, I really appreciate it.

[@crishertel]

I have been quilting for 6 years now and I still do not have a design wall. You are doing a great job on your blocks.

[@helgawalley4597]

I managed without as Well.

[@barryquilts]

I appreciate your compliment

[@CozyHermitageCraftRoom]

Can’t wait for the tour of your sewing room. John

[@barryquilts]

It may disappoint you lol

[@SharonBell6123]

I love your videos, Barry! I’m excited learning along with you and can’t wait to see what you’ve done every time!

[@barryquilts]

I really appreciate your kind words - I’m having fun and hope to keep you entertained along the way.

[@annettesonneson3468]

I had an old tablecloth in my basement (flannel backed). Took a couple pieces of velcro, put them on my Ikea bookshelf and the tablecloth and there I had a very inexpensive design wall. Not real concerned about the bookshelf if I need to remove the velcro. I had no empty wall space for anything else, so it works for me!

[@barryquilts]

That’s a brilliant idea, thank you for sharing!

[@beezuscomplex153]

My design wall isn’t terribly big, but it gets the job done. It’s a piece of 4x8 foam core insulation with flannel stapled to it. I didn’t attach it to the wall because I needed the flexibility of moving the design board sometimes. I’m fairly happy and I’ve had it for years. When I’m laying out a quilt to put all the blocks together, I lay it out on my bed. Keep going! You’re doing great.

[@CYNWORLD]

I am glad you found a community.

[@lindadalton2668]

Speaking of not spending a lot of money on a machine until you know it’s what you are going to love doing and then go out to all the thrift stores and hope you get lucky enough to find one of those old antique sewing machines. Those are the machines to have

[@barryquilts]

I’ve been looking at the thrift stores for antique sewing machine to display in my room

[@sandyrichmond2570]

When you quilt it and wash it you’ll hardly notice the points that are bothering you. You’ll doing so well!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you very much I appreciate it

[@teresabrooks9887]

That is going to turn out very nice. I like the colors.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks for the compliment!

[@virginiagorham1529]

For your design wall you can get a plastic table cloth with the fussy backing and pin that up on the wall. You are doing great. Keep up the good work.

[@barryquilts]

I appreciate the tip, thanks!

[@victoriahannah1633]

Your quilt is turning out great. I love the green and peach. Yes it does help tremendously if your sewing space has a flow to it. Remember to get up and walk around some for your circulation. I’m doing some apparel sewing right now because I need clothes for church, going out, and vacation. Got some skirts finished except hemming. Started today making a button up shirt. I’ll finish things up when I start feeling better after my surgery this coming Tuesday. Just a little glitch in the action. I can’t wait to see your finished product.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you very much

[@ileanaghione5720]

Ciao Barry, ti faccio tanti complimenti perché hai scelto un hobby non proprio maschile e ti ci dedichi con passione! In Italia non è popolare ma mi affascina e ci voglio provare infatti ho già acquistato una macchina Bernina Q.E. Continua con i tuoi video! Saluti dalla Liguria- Italia

[@barryquilts]

Thank you and that is a great machine I am told. I appreciate you watching and would love to visit your country someday soon!

[@annroberson8890]

Sorry for your recording problems. Your colors are lovely. You are doing great for as long as you have been at it. Points will come. My only suggestion since you are trying so hard is to check the tension on your machine.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks for the encouragement, I appreciate it

[@susanhaberman3301]

I like the quilt! It’s coming along great…love the colors❤

[@barryquilts]

I appreciate that, it has been a fun project

[@proud2bktsmama]

I've used a bed or a floor for my entire quilting career. I am just now working out a way to have a design wall in my sewing room, and I'm excited about it. Can't wait to see what you do!

[@mitzibud6908]

I consider my creative pursuits an interpretive folk art...nothing if perfect, but the lord above!! Love, love, love your enthusiasm for sharing your adventures in quilting! Love that you articulate the difference between needs and wants. Crafting can be a slippery slope. Looking forward to your future videos!

[@barryquilts]

It’s so much fun to create and share.

[@nancyduplessis6623]

This is awesome!!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you

[@gomezpnp]

Hi Barry. My husband made me a design board that size of a queen size bed with foam core insulation he taped together and we covered it with cheap flannel that was on sale at Joanne’s. So it was pretty cheap to make. I wish this platform could let me show you a pic of it. Keep sewing and videoing, love to see you sew! I see someone else’s husband did the same thing lol.

[@barryquilts]

Sounds like a very helpful husband!

[@sandraengstrand2784]

Looking forward to seeing the sewing room whenever it’s ready to share! 🧵🪡✂️

[@barryquilts]

Thank you very much

[@peepers4763]

Amazing work Barry. The variety of blocks are impressive. Advanced blocks! 😳 (Starch is a friend of mine)

[@barryquilts]

I actually have starch - I need to use it!

[@peepers4763]

@ not sure if you need to use starch. Before cutting, I found helpful to stabilize, crisp fabric handles better and sew easier. Other reason I starch pre-shrink. Steam iron may do the same??

[@CarolynMeyer-kq9hk]

I have been quilting for 3 years now, i use a Singer quilting sewing machine. As long as you clean the lint out at least once or twice a week, your machine will work forever.

[@barryquilts]

That's great advice and I agree - machines last a long time if they are taken care of!

[@DianneIllsley]

You are doing so well Barry, try a flanalette sheet as a temporary design wall, just get it done quilts have some fantastic ideas. 😊😊 Derbyshire di , uk🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@barryquilts]

Thanks for the tip!

[@GlendaakaGranny]

You're doing a great job!🎉❤🎉

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!

[@melanienicholson2834]

You're right, needs vs wants. I bought a second hand dresser (8 drawer) super long for 50.00. I put casters on it so I could move it around. My nephew had some wood long enough to fit the dresser top. I made a ironing station. I makes ironing the quilt backs easier. I also have a place to put my cutting mats. The dresser is full of fabric and enough room for my patterns and rulers. All i need to do now is sand and paint it. I try to be frugal so i can afford yes more fabric lol

[@barryquilts]

That is such a great idea- I’ll have to check out the local thrift stores.

[@59AKswcold]

You're doing great! Thanks for the encouragement and motivation.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you for the nice comment!

[@carlajones2169]

I’m enjoying your videos Barry! You are making me want to dust off my sewing machine and finish the black and white quilt I started years ago! I had no idea of the labor of love it would take as it was an ambitious quilt for a beginner quilter due to the small pieces needed. I grew tired of working on it after work, took a break and it has been bagged up since. FYI: I used to make clothes and still found quilting to be another animal so I solute you for going on this journey and sharing it with us!

[@barryquilts]

Well dust it off and get it done. If I can get you motivated to do it then I feel like my efforts haven’t been in vain 😀

[@karin0963]

Your blocks look great. I started quilting in 2022, have a Singer HD. After my first 2 quilts I decided to spend money and got the Juki 2010. I also do free motion quilting on that. I love my Juki.

[@barryquilts]

Congratulations and I hope to be able to wrangle a quilt under it someday

[@judyhebert8928]

I love my Juki, you will find that you get spoiled with the speed.

[@barryquilts]

Yes that thing is super fast lol

[@c-kcountry-kiwi5294]

Great progress Barry. Feeling excited for you.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you, I am having fun learning and making new things.

[@geekmomba]

OMG! You're doing great! You are such an inspiration! I'm retiring in about 10 weeks and I'm looking forward to joining you on this journey. I have done tons of sewing lover the years, but almost no quilting. I've done some quilt-as-you-go bags, but I still haven't done a full quilt! Looking forward to seeing what you're going to do for project #2.

[@barryquilts]

Well here is a Pre- congratulations to you! Jump in the water is fine 😀

[@gabriella7471]

Good for you! Your doing great

[@barryquilts]

Thank you very much

[@CYNWORLD]

Yes, I agree with the needs and want statements.

[@barryquilts]

Yes but it’s hard not to give in to the wants

[@Grayfulgracious]

Lookin good.

[@michellem8284]

The location of my outlet means the iron cord is crossing the walking space. I never considered a cordless iron! Thanks for the idea,

[@barryquilts]

I tried it last night and it is great

[@soSEW-COB]

Great work . . I mean play Barry! You’re right about making memories. And to archive said memories. You’ll have to label your first quilt. Labels are another individualized creation. Unique to you 💚 Do what speaks to you. 👋 Chris Ont 🇨🇦

[@barryquilts]

That is a good idea and something I am working on. I just need to research the best label to make? What do you do?

[@DeborahGrissom-p8z]

I love the color palette for your quilt and the blocks are very well placed, in my opinion. You have made rapid progress, very impressive. This will be a proud representation of beginner efforts, well done!!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@Roxanne-lc7rp]

Good job hun. I Really like how your blocks worked out.😊

[@barryquilts]

Thank you! I tried my best.

[@cindyspence7237]

I am really enjoying your journey. I’m sure the ladies at your community center except you as one of their own! All quilters enjoy seeing someone new come along with so much enthusiasm! It reminds us all why we love to quilt! I can’t wait to see what comes next!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you - I don't know about that but I hope so!

[@awkwardquilterGA]

Barry, you are doing awesome 😊 my design wall is a $2 vinyl tablecloth from the dollar store. The fleece on the backside is absolutely great holding up the blocks. Those Panasonic 360s are nice. I had one but it died. It was replaced by a full Oliso. Keep it up you're doing great!

[@barryquilts]

The vinyl tablecloth is a great idea! Thank you for the tip

[@helgawalley4597]

Barry, you are so fast! I have been working on my current quilt for 2 years but I just retired and had very limited time before working full time. But even now there is always sth more important that has to get done. Maybe I am not well organized yet.

[@barryquilts]

Believe me I know what you are saying. I’ve been doing this in batches and never more than an hour at a time.

[@vickijones6739]

I'm just give you a couple ideas: First lay on your bed any when your blocks are all sewed together cover with it see if you like the width and length before you bind and sandwich it. Easier to add on before its all sewedtogether. Second: fabric sticks real good to flannel. I just went to the restore and buy a flannel sheet king size and hang it on the wall then you can press your blocks onto it one at a time rearrange rearrange again. You might find its good enough. I have it for mine.n you can even get a light one for dark blocks and a dark one for light blocks. My cost $1 and its almost a brand new flannel sheet. You don't even need to cut it up. Just hang it and you're done.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks so much for the tip about the flannel sheet, I might give that a try!

[@juliec2393]

I remember being intimidated by how fast a long arm sews! Once I finally took the plunge and tried one, I loved it. No room for one at home. You have a wonderful opportunity there with one at your community center. I'm sure the group is pleased to include you, quilters love welcoming a new recruit.

[@barryquilts]

I was excited when I found out they had one and then to find out they just got another one I thought wow - I don’t have to go out and spend $10k now lol.

[@juliec2393]

@barryquilts Yes! Save your $ for the other needs (& maybe a want) 😂

[@DeirdreQuinn-l9j]

Good for you, it’s looking great!!!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!

[@diannealice3601]

I have a feeling that we're going to be seeing some awesome quilts coming here soon.

[@barryquilts]

I hope so! It's been fun learning, but I'm still a newbie!

[@paulineprice7308]

It’s great Barry your in your quilting room starting looking good you can’t do all at one your quilting looks great , Barry you r doing well keep it up 👏👏

[@barryquilts]

Thanks so much I appreciate it

[@herbertjanzen3707]

For a design wall maybe check The Last Homly House. She has wonderful ideas and she also quilts. Happy New Year.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you, I will definitely check her out. Happy New Year.

[@Cassandra-..-]

Your blocks look fantastic!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!

[@SusanGreen-z2z]

Fantastic

[@barryquilts]

Thanks

[@simplyquiltingwithnancysanders]

Glad you are in your sewing room, and your quilt is coming together nicely.😊

[@barryquilts]

I hope I can keep the momentum going.

[@ilamigut992]

You've done a lot since the last video - I think your quilt and your sewing room are going to be amazing. I love your approach to quilting! My design wall is a curtain rod (you can use Command hooks) with a quilt batting (any cotton batting will work) that has a blanket binding (you can buy it any place that has sewing supplies) stitched to the top. The blanket binding forms a pocket to slip over the rod.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks, that sounds like a great idea!

[@nrobinson7951]

Hi Berry, good job. Glad your in your sewing room now. Don't worry about a mess in your sewing room, I'm sure most of us have one. Thanks for sharing

[@barryquilts]

Thanks! It’s nice to be in my sewing room.

[@RNKoriginalss]

Yay Barry! I love that you have your own space now! We have a queen bed and are nice sized people... we like 100 ish squared quilts as they shrink about 4-5" each way as you wash and dry ... the cotton shrinks... also think about your wideback is 108" wide.. stay less than that for quilting reasons... do you plan to quilt this on your Juki or do you plan to send this for quilting or learn hand quilting for finish it? Loving how you decided your colors... your colors and your quilt layout too Barry

[@barryquilts]

Thank you - I still haven’t decided but I think the lady at the community center will longarm it for me?

[@noscripthere95]

Your Alaskian Quilt Cruise might be found on "Just Get It Done" you tube channel. She did one last year. Great Canadian lady with lots of helpful quilting videos too

[@barryquilts]

Thank you, I will definitely check that out. I’m watching her decluttering videos now

[@grmanat]

lol…my dad was a painter and paper hanger and my mom always said “the painter’s house gets painted last”. I have same two irons and love them both! The mini I keep on pressing table by machine.

[@barryquilts]

I’m telling you - you don’t want to do something all day at work and then come home and do it for free 😀

[@SusanGreen-z2z]

I think you are great fromSue UK

[@barryquilts]

Hi Sue - Thank you very much!

[@dollysadlak5242]

I learned how to do my quilt blocks all by hand. Your blocks look awesome ❤

[@barryquilts]

Thank you and I bet your are even better! Done by hand - congratulations to you!

[@et1016]

Oh my goodness, your blocks look amazing!!! Great job!!!

[@barryquilts]

Thank you very much

[@lindacharleville3708]

Looks really good. I can't wait to see it finished.

[@barryquilts]

I can't wait to see it finished either!

[@mrsbegin4185]

My design wall is insulation foam board you get at Home Depot not expensive. Can put flannel on it. And/or can pin things to it.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks - I have been reading about that, appreciate the tip!

[@kathleenmayhorne3183]

Put up a string or a spare curtain rod. Drape a large piece of batting up there, you can use the same one until it gets cottons stuck all over it or fold it into your quilt top and put up another. You can make a tube for a hanging sleeve and pin it to that, or use some long cardboard to make a room divider and cover thtnwith flannelette, whatever works for you, not much money at all needed. Have you got some design boards made yet? Look up Lori Holt, for instructions? Have fun! Either get a library book or maybe watch someone like Tiffany's quilting life, she has a lot of beginner stuff and free patterns, ask a machine technician why your machine is gathering on you, you can change the tension on the top and on the bobbin, find out how.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you - I will check her out

[@MonaDidWhat]

Nice quilt, flannel backed table cloth makes a great design wall

[@barryquilts]

I have been thinking about getting one of those.

[@judythornton1427]

What made you you decide on buying a Juki machine?

[@barryquilts]

Well - I binge watched videos of dozens of quilters to see what they were using and the Juki seemed like the best one for the price? My brother was a great machine but I figured go big or go home lol

[@linnn2424]

Suggestion: Stand up to iron. It gets you out of the chair and gives you a "stretch" break.

[@barryquilts]

Well - just for you I bought an ironing board today 😀 we will see how it goes

[@theresezupancic6763]

Keep up the good work! Your doing amazing job! Thanks for sharing can’t wait to see as you go.

[@barryquilts]

I really appreciate the encouragement - I am having fun with this

[@Mom-e9y]

Wow! Excellent job!Love the colors.

[@barryquilts]

I appreciate the compliment.

[@gigi3242]

You are doing great! Glad you are having fun.

[@barryquilts]

Thank you so much!

[@littlejoan7473]

Barry, you are really doing great! Love the mix of colors in your blocks and how you alternated the green and white blocks with the green, peach and white blocks. For a design wall, lots of quilters buy a vinyl picnic tablecloth with the flannel back and use it hung flannel side up. It can be hung up with a few tacks. Looks like Walmart has them for around $10.

[@barryquilts]

Thanks so much - I am thinking about the picnic tablecloth as I keep researching.

[@littlejoan7473]

@@barryquilts I've got a Foamcore board with a piece of flannel on top. It's nice for using pins to help hold fabrics up on the board. But Wow! Foamcore has gotten expensive! At first, I thought my search was getting the kind with the foil laminate, but no it was the right one. There's other stuff out there too. I saw some sound proofing squares that are wall mounted. Don't remember the pricing though. Hope you find something that works for you.