Thursday, October 30, 2014

Fall Back

Yikes!
Summer extended itself very nicely into Fall this year, so
I can't really complain that the clocks are being turned
back this weekend, or that winter is encroaching.
Plus, it's the most exciting time of year here.
Everyone has returned from their summer reveries,
and are ready to return their projects.
  Classes that took summer hiatus have started again,
and this old mill is abuzz with creativity.
 yaaay!

Lots of new fabrics and yarns have been coming in.
It's hard to have a favorite, but I am absolutely in LOVE with
Robert Kaufman's new cotton flannel.  I don't know how they make it,
but it is sooo soft and yummy and drapey.
It feels like cashmere.  
Our co-worker Katie fell in love with it too and was inspired
to make this fabulous reverse applique throw:
It will be hanging in the store as soon as I find a good spot for it.
You HAVE to touch it!  There's no pattern, yet...
but I'll encourage Katie to write one up (hi Katie!).

More warm Fall thoughts...
Joan brought in a whole bunch of her gorgeous hand dyed wool.
 So many bee-u-ti-ful colors!!!
She'll be teaching Rug Hooking again this winter and
 Nancy Keyes has a few wool applique workshops up her sleeve as well.
For example...Isn't this bag fabo?! (YES!!)
It's Nancy's sample for an upcoming workshop.
I'll post the details soon.
With holiday gift making in mind,
we've been putting together some of our favorite simple projects in kit form. 
Jennifer made this apron using Carrie Bloomston's "Paint" collection
and the "Reversible Apron" pattern from Mary Mulari.
Lindell made this one using Michael Millers "Monster Mash"
and Valori Wells' Pillowcase Sewcard" pattern.
 
If you can sew just a bit, you can make these.

Want help?  Sign up for one of our classes.
We've got sewing classes for adults and children, beginners or advanced.
Check out our schedule here:

Speaking of classes, we are very excited to be welcoming
Taylor McVay to our teaching staff.

 Taylor is a sewist and pattern maker, who has worked
with both established designers and
fashion pioneers. She has collaborated on wearables for
internationally exhibiting artists and designed custom clothing for a
range of clientele. She believes that learning how to sew, especially
 
how to make ones own clothing, is both creatively satisfying and
empowering. Her recently launched sewing pattern company, Blueprints
For Sewing, features designs inspired by architecture and art.
You can read more about her on her website here:
 
Her first class will be in December and will be
posted soon on our site.

A few more of my faves that have recently arrived...

Frances Newcomes' "Utopia" from Art Gallery Fabrics
I am in lust with Art Gallery's voiles, which feel like silk
and are perfect for elegant blouses.
Another highly coveted item:
Robert Kaufman's Designer Palette Kona Cotton
 This group is from Elizabeth Hartman and are perfect
for making her Aviatrix Medallion Quilt.

Can you have enough yummy dots?
No!
 from Lecien... 















                   





Last, but not least...
Sarah, talented friend of FMS, came in several months ago to share her creation with us.  She's a fabulous quilter and this was her first time venturing into a more mutimedia/fiber art process AND she discovered her true creative element.















                        


Thanks Sarah! It's gorgeous.


Hope to see you all soon.


Happy Fall!