Every year around this time I make an effort to tidy up my sewing space. Generally it is a chaotic workspace with several projects going on at one time.
Over the years I’ve started projects, and for one reason or another moved on to a different project before finishing one that I had started. Some projects would be started for a retreat, or at a retreat. Others might come from a class. And still others might come from some sort of challenge. Working and moving might have a change in priorities and things get pushed aside.
Well this year I stated making a list of my UFO’S (unfinished objects). I did this once before and it sort of shocked me. This time was no different. I haven’t finished tidying up yet and so far I have 50 projects that need finishing. And as I look over the list, I know that there are at least another dozen projects in a bin somewhere in that room that also need something done to complete them.
That being said, this is the year of the UFO. I’ve found this wonderful FINISHALONG challenge. You can find all the details here: https://sarahgoerquilts.com/2020-finish-a-long/ What I like about this one is it is quarterly so I can chose more than one thing to finish, or if I have a lot to do on a specific project I can focus on that and hopefully get it done. Also, you can start at any quarter. So if you don’t participate in Q1, that doesn’t keep you from participating in Q2.
Also this year I am participating in the American Patchwork & Quilting UFO Challenge, as well as Quilter’s Corners Ready, Set, Goal 2020. Funny thing though, each challenge picks it’s own project number for the month, and I have found that they don’t necessarily match. Ready, Set is #3 (Don’t Fence Me In) and APQ is #2 (Free State Green). It’s going to be busy!
Without dragging my feet any further, my finishalong goals for Q1 are:
#4 Finish my Antique Pineapple Blocks wall hanging
#5 Finish the Floral Wreath Wall Hanging started at least 15 years ago.
#30 Patriot Hearts needs to be hand quilted and bound
#46 Summer Harvest Table Runner needs to be quilted and bound
#47 Hexi Table Cover has to be appliqued to the base and quilted
Well, I’d better get busy! Thanks for stopping by. I’d love to hear if you have any quilting goals this year and what tools you use to keep you on track.
divadiversion 
Just a few brief words for you, Diane…smaller and big stitch. For example, if you have 4 blocks made, but were aiming for 12, make it a wall hanging or table topper. Use perle coton and a larger needle for big stitch. It’s fun and faster. Your projects are awesome!
Thanks Annie! My hand quilting is big stitch no matter how small I try to make it! For some of the projects, I know I will be going smaller than I originally intended. Some of these UFO’s are in the “classic” era as in nearing on 25 years old.
Good morning! Wow, that is an impressive first quarter list. I adore your pineapple blocks. That is on my mental to-do list for sooner-than-later. I look forward to seeing your finishes as you complete them! ~smile~ Roseanne
Thank you Roseanne! All of them are true finishes. I love pineapple blocks! These particular blocks and their acquisition are pretty special too. I’ll share the entire story when I share the finish. – excited! Diane
Hi Diane, Happy New Years, I hope all is well with you & Michael. We are doing well in Florida. I have been going through closets and cabinets my mom was a cross sticker, knitter like I am. She was a good sewer and had tried quilting. I came across what I think is a small piece that is put together and is in need of quilting. I have done a search there is a quilt shop here in my area, what do I need to look for in the shop to get help? I also have at least two quilting shops in North Carolina. Any help advice is needed. Big hug, Pam
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Pam your Mom sounds like a very creative woman willing to try her hand at anything. You need to approach this project like she would! Things to consider. How big is the piece? Do you want to hand quilt it or machine quilt it? Is the piece more for décor and sentiment or something that will be “used”? What kind of batting did she use? (some battings are easier to hand quilt than others). Your mom was a good seamstress so I’m thinking that her piecing is tidy. What are the fabrics like? If you post your pic on Instagram, I’d be happy to look at it and give you more feedback. I would also be interested in hearing what is suggested at the quilt shop. There are lots of options! Warm hugs and seeing you here puts a big smile on my face! Diane
Can I send you a picture of what I have so you can better direct me
I would love to see a picture!
At closer look on the back it seems we began to quilt. I went to a local shop yesterday to inquire about lessons I purchased the start quilt in with Alex Anderson (3rd edition) the instructor teaches only machine quilting. I have an old machine and not sure if the walking foot will fit it, more homework on my part.
Hand stitching is not difficult, but somewhat time consuming, and would be a lovely sentiment between you and your mother. The piece is not huge, and from what I see in the picture, her piecing is great. Personally, I’d suggest hand quilting. You’ve got this!
Hi Diane,
Happy New Years, I hope all is well with you & Michael. We are doing well in Florida.
I have been going through closets and cabinets my mom was a cross sticker, knitter like I am. She was a good sewer and had tried quilting. I came across what I think is a small piece that is put together and is in need of quilting. I have done a search there is a quilt shop here in my area, what do I need to look for in the shop to get help?
I also have at least two quilting shops in North Carolina. Any help advice is needed.
Big hug,
Pam