Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Beavering Away...

Yup, yup, yup...a true Canadian, that's me... at least, according to a quiz I stumbled onto not once, but twice in the past few days (second time, courtesy of my friend elle).  I'm a Beaver, through and through: "Analytical, self-disciplined, industrial, organized, aesthetic, self-sacrificing" - just ask my friends.  (Don't ask my kids; they expect me to be this way -- I'm a MOM, after all! ;-) )

And so I've been steadily working in the Sewdio, despite a head-cold which has me longing to lie down and sleep, sleep, sle-e-e-ep...

What's In Progress, you may ask (being as this is WIP Wednesday, after all!)?

Well...the Magic Tiles (nine block version) has been assembled and awaits its borders:


I'm thinking about a narrow (ish) pieced border (2" finished) and a wider solid border (4" -- likely black...with a subtle pattern).

And there are two new miniatures on the design wall, awaiting thread painting and/or a bit of hand-stitch:

Top: "Gone South" (WIP)
Bottom: "Statuesque" (WIP)
Before these could be finished, I had to get some more batting and a backing for the Magic Tiles baby quilt.  Off I went to Homespun Seasons in Stettler this afternoon, and I wasn't disappointed.

BUT I was distracted... by the latest from Husqvarna...

Husqvarna Platinum 16
Uh-oh.  At about $6,000 ( before discounts)...including (I believe) the table...it's almost the price of a decent used car.  On the other hand, I might just be in love.  However, as I actually need a new car within the next 2-3 years, and want to travel to Scotland for my 65th in 2017...this is not going to be an Immediate Purchase.  Still, it's lovely to know that there is a dealer nearby who carries something I might just be able to use...

***TAKE DEEP BREATH HERE***

Okay!  Back to reality via The Needle and Thread Network...WIP Wednesday, and the reminder that Christmas approaches, the Gallery calls, and The Beat Goes On!


8 comments:

Wil said...

Yes they are expensive, but I am glad that I got myself a HQ16 a couple of years ago. Not that I use it every day, but no more struggling with a big quilt on a domestic machine.

elle said...

Meet ya in the water! I have looked long and hard at those short armed quilting machines. vbsigh Priorities! ;)

Judy Warner said...

Like your ideas for the border of Magic Tiles. Those two miniatures touch my heart - your art quilts are beautiful, Margaret.
Happy Thanksgiving, even though it is a US holiday today.

Pam @ Quilting Fun said...

Love the tile quilt, gorgeous colours! I just bought a machine that cost more than my car. I use it every day and have buyers remorse every day. It is amazing what you can live with! I love it to pieces.

M-R Charbonneau said...

LOL, I'm a beaver too. Love the fabrics you chose for the Magic tiles -- looking great!

jenny k. lyon said...

Your minis are exquisite Margaret!

Marjorie's Busy Corner said...

I love your red and black quilt!! I have the Tiara...basically the same as this Husquvarna...you would love this machine!!!!

California Fiber artist and composer said...

You are so efficient that the description of a beaver suits you to a T. The machine looks rather like the Handiquilter Sweet 16 which is around the same price. As some people upgrade from these to a long arm you might put out feelers for a used one. Handiquilter provides wonderful phone support without needing a password etc.