Quilter's Refuge

Can't Find What You Want?

2011-03-31T14:31:00.000-07:00

Well, make your own! If you have that certain piece of fabric in your mind that you NEED to have, Spoonflower will let you make it yourself. If there is an artist somewhere deep down inside, you can create your own print and Spoonflower will print your fabric for you. Now isn't that neat?

Also, make sure to check out their latest contest with Michael Miller and vote for your favorite one. I placed my votes. There are some really cute fabrics on there.

Like Lil-Red-Wagon

and these cute sea animals!

Also, you can still sign up for our Quilts of Valor free mystery project. We will email you the clues starting on Friday April 1st and every Friday after that for 6 weeks. At the end, you'll have a beautiful quilt to donate to Quilts of Valor. Who doesn't love to show their appreciation for our soldiers?!

Even Organizing is Cute

2011-03-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

So I'm willing to bet that most people's sewing rooms don't look like the ones in the magazines. You know, not a thread to be seen, cute boxes lining the walls, lots of windows, 3 sewing machines, and color coordinating everything? It's usually just not possible. Hello...we are creating here! We don't have time to decorate!

But that doesn't mean we can't throw a little bit of organization (and something really cute) in our sewing rooms without much trouble. Hey, it might even keep us from losing the middle 2 pages of that pattern and wondering "What the heck was I making with this?" kind of event from happening.

I love this....mini-goals are exactly what we quilters/sewers need!

Available at - Paper Source

Do you ever lose track of time while you're sewing? This clock will keep you right on schedule.

See all Quilter clocks here!

We all know how many different writing utensils we need to create our quilts and projects. Pens, pencils, glue sticks, chalk pencils, the list goes on! Keep all of them organized with this straw dispenser inspired holder.

MoMA

At the end of the day, we love binders. Binders keep our projects (and patterns) where they are supposed to be! This binder from Russel and Hazel has a dry erase interior and a thick rubber band to hold everything in. Plus, you get to choose from a wide range of colors. Now you'll never forget where you left off on that last project!

Russell + Hazel

Now all you need are some of these boxes...and wow! Aren't you feeling just a little more put together?

The Container Store

Got any great & simple ideas? Share!!!

Bonnie's Best Blogs

2011-03-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Another treat for my friends -- this is the blog I've featured in the latest newsletter. (I promise I'm sending it out today!) Time really flies when it comes to writing newsletters. But when there is so much sewing to do...it's kind of hard to concentrate. Plus, it's spring. You really can't blame a girl!


Check out Heather Bailey Here!

She has a lot of ideas and fresh fabric designs. Let me know what you think!

FREE Mystery

2011-03-21T13:54:00.000-07:00

See Details HERE!

We are excited to be offering a Free Mystery pattern to those who would like to help us make quilts for our troops through the Quilts of Valor program. The kick-off is April 1st at 1:00 here at the shop. We hope as many people as possible can make it to the kick-off and then if you would like, we can e-mail your clues to you.

You'll receive 6 clues for 6 Fridays and then we'll have a Finish Up/Reveal Day on May 13th here at the shop. Sign up now to participate in this wonderful program.

FABRIC REQUIREMENTS:

RED: 2 1/4 YARDS

BLUE: 2 3/4 YARDS

BACKGROUND: (WHITE OR CREAM) 3 1/4 YARDS

The first clue will be given out Friday, April 1st at the kick-off here at the shop (or emailed to you that afternoon) and then we will open up the classroom for those who would like to cut out/sew on the first clue. Bring fabric from home or buy yours here and receive a 20% discount on all fabrics used to make a top. We're even covering the machine quilting, batting, and backing!

We hope you'll all come!

Questions? Call - (256)552-9410 Email: contact@quiltersrefuge.com

Come By!: 1000 Beltline Rd. SW. In the Plum Tree Shopping Center

Have You Twisted?

2011-03-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

This ruler is one of the latest neat things to try.

Pretty much you sew squares together and then what's a quilter's favorite thing to do? Cut perfectly good fabric up into pieces and then sew it back together! Check out this blog "Moda Lissa" to view a great tutorial to see how she used her squares. Do any of you have this ruler? Let me know what you think!

This is one of our creations using the ruler --- more to come!!! This was our first attempt and the colors kind of blended together (I personally love it!) but some thought more contrast was needed so another project is in the works. What do ya'll think?

Ovarian Cancer

2011-02-22T11:41:00.000-08:00

click here for details

Blank Quilting has a beautiful fabric line dedicated to ovarian cancer, it's survivors and it's fighters.
We are carrying some of the fabric here in the shop for one of our local guilds who is going to be making one of these quilts. I thought I'd share the website with you and if you and your local guild or quilt shop would like to get involved then you will have all of the details!

Inspiration Guild at Blank Quilting.

Oh, Free Thread!!!

2011-02-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

If only I had practiced more at those "Guess How Many M&M's are in the Jar" games then I would definitely have this competition in the bag! ...Or in the chest? Check out Aurifil's Threads Facebook page to enter to win free thread! Yep, to the tune of 216 spools! Woohoo!


Click here to go to their Facebook page

By the way, if you aren't our friend on Facebook, be sure to visit our page too and Like us!
Also, in the world of deals..make sure to check out Gammill's current promotion. Probably the biggest sale they've ever had! If you live in the Tennessee Valley area or aren't sure where your Gammill representative is, send Butch an email at butch@quiltersrefuge.com for more information or if you have any questions.
Take a look at the flyer below!

Go to the Gammill website or to our website for more information. If you've ever wanted a Gammill, well, now's the time to buy!

hello thrifty friends!

2011-02-09T07:16:00.000-08:00

Now, I know it is hard to stomach, but the fact is this darn cotton is only getting more expensive and our fabric that we love so dearly is directly impacted!! I am trying to come to terms with it myself, so I can only imagine how it is sometimes when you walk in your quilt store and you see $10/yard and even $11/yard fabric.

Thank goodness for American Quilt Retailer. They have some smart people over there and they decided to ask opinions. But they didn't just ask anyone. Of course not. They asked the heads of the fabric companies we all know ( Hoffman , Marcus , Michael Miller , Moda , Robert Kaufman ) and many others. So please read what they have to say.

READ HERE

Maybe it will make it just a little bit easier for all of us to understand :)

Follow? What Does That Mean?

2011-02-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

I know a lot of people are new to the blog world (blogosphere) and if you find a lot of blogs you would like to read (follow) then it can get a little confusing! Where do you go to find the blog again? Can't I just read all my blogs in one place? How do you know when they write again?

from pctechnotes

I thought I would offer my advice on this topic because blogs are really beneficial to the quilting community! We all have so much to share and they are a great way to learn new tricks and techniques. Plus you get to see what everyone else is working on and keep up with your favorite quilt shops' classes, new fabrics, and events.
Phew! I could go on all day!

But here is my number one tip for you : USE GOOGLE READER!
Google Reader collects all of your blogs, puts them in one place, and lets you know how many posts you have to read. Fabulous!
So how do you get it? Well, for starters it's FREE just in case you were wondering and there will be a little tab at the top of your browser for instant access.
Start HERE. That is the Google Reader home page. Once there either use your already established Google Account log in or create a new account (very simple!).
Here are some links to help you get started:
Google Reader Home Page
Google Reader FAQ
Google Reader Tour

Once you have logged in to your account just go to your favorite blogs and click "Follow". They will magically all be collected and put on your Google Reader page for you to read when you have a free second.

How great is that? Have a question? Just ask! If I can help you with anything, I'll be glad to :)

Quilts of Valor

2011-02-01T12:11:00.000-08:00

We will be participating in the Quilts of Valor program this year. We have chosen the American Valor Fabrics Collection from Marcus Brothers by Faye Burgos. This quilt uses our favorite new fabric, Strip-it! So the red/white/blue pieces between the stars? Just one piece of fabric! Woohoo! Plus, the middle is a panel so this quilt is going to be a great one for the beginners.

Check out this video to learn more about the Quilts of Valor program and stay tuned for more info!

Presenting the Quilts of Valor Foundation from Catherine Roberts on Vimeo.

A Treat For My Friends

2011-01-29T17:42:00.000-08:00

I am constantly looking through blogs trying to find new, interesting ones for me & for you! I found this one this evening! Please enjoy!

We all love Moda!!

Strip It!

2011-01-25T07:20:00.000-08:00

Not literally...geez. Our upcoming Block of the Month, Chestnut & Vine is G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S! And it uses the Strip-It fabric designed by Faye Burgos from Marcus Brothers fabrics.

it's like you already sewed the strips together!

This fabric is perfect for making half-square triangles and borders for little blocks (like the ones in the quilt!) without actually having to do all that darn piecing. As you can see, the fabric is just gorgeous and there is just enough applique to make a statement.

Have any of you used Strip-It? It was also used in the Holidays at Home Block of the Month that we did last year.

I am excited about this one! How can you not love having a quilt that people will look at and think "wow! look at all that piecing!" Then you can say "Oh, yes, there sure was a lot!" and laugh to yourself because, hey, they'll never know it was really Strip-It fabric :)

The pattern is designed by Faye Burgos of Bloom Creek and the ladies here have had a great time putting it together! While it is being quilted now, I'll post the Marcus Brothers picture of it. When it's finished I'll post a picture of ours. You really just have to do the block of the month and see it in person because you'll fall in love with these prints.

Let me know your experiences with Strip-It and how much snow do you have?

Since It's Snowing....

2011-01-13T12:45:00.000-08:00

Why not make some Snow Cream? I haven't gotten to try it yet but some people around here made some from our last snow and really loved it!

Ingredients

1 gallon snow
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups milk

Directions

When it starts to snow, place a large, clean bowl outside to collect the flakes. When full, stir in sugar and vanilla to taste, then stir in just enough milk for the desired consistency. Serve at once.

Let me know how yours turns out!

Cotton!!!

2011-01-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

Cotton, the fabric of our lives, or so they say. And as much as we quilters love our cotton, it's hard to love something when it's hurting your pocketbook right? So we wanted to know what you think. Has anyone been doing any research on this subject? Does everyone think their quilt shops are conspiring against their customers to raise their prices? Do the quilt shops think that the vendors are conspiring against their customers to raise their prices? Do the vendors believe it's the mills and the farmers and the government conspiring against them?!

Don't we just love a good conspiracy theory? Unfortunately, these never seem to be true.

Tell me about it! Leave us a comment and tell us how you really feel on the subject. I'll be posting another entry after this one with a kind of summary of our discussions.

So friends, let's talk!
I'm not kidding. Leave a comment.

Some Snowflakes

2010-12-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

A few wintry pictures for my blog friends (the first white Christmas in Alabama in FOREVER and my first Christmas married!) It is all good luck I'm sure!

Also, just to make sure you get the right dosage of cuteness today....here ya go!

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! It is almost the New Year guys so lets get those To-Do lists out. Then tear them up and throw them away because you get to start over, after all. What else is a New Year good for?!

<3BonnieJean

a BIG secret for you!

2010-12-23T09:26:00.000-08:00

You all are the first to know.....
for the first time, we are also having our annual After-Christmas sale online!!! Woohoo!

Of course we always want you to be able to come to the store. There is nothing like a sale day! I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas holiday and PUHLEEZE enjoy your time off from work.
I'm sure I'll be the only one who misses my job, right?

Right. Alright! Here's your To-Do!

1) Enjoy holiday season

2) Eat lotssssss of food

3) Spend time with family (even those that you don't really like)

4) Take a nap, for goodness sakes! You just ate a bunch!

5) Get a neat present & give a neat present

6) Re-group online or in the store on Monday for our wonderful sale!!

Ok, make sure you complete all your tasks! Santa will come and see you, I promise!, if you do :)

<3BonnieJean

Coming Along!

2010-12-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

The Michael Miller Clubhouse quilt is coming along well!

I PROMISE I will sew some more today. Promise. Really.
You all believe me right?

Gina's Group is meeting and they are taking on this for their next project!

The Farmer's Wife! You go girls!! I think they are going to have a wonderful time!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season. Around here, we are excited for Christmas and are hoping to make it as stress free as possible. We are having an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party tomorrow night and a Bah Humbug! Day on Monday where we will all sew free gift card holders. woohoo!

I hope everyone will remember to relax and enjoy the season and stop by your quilt shop if you need a breather! We promise that we (along with loads of fabric and quilting goodies) will help you relax and remember that it is ok to chill for a second in December! You don't have to be crazy!

See you soon!
<3Bonnie Jean

Those Flying Geese I Spoke Of?

2010-12-03T09:03:00.000-08:00

Well here they are!! These two pictures are the first two of many wonderful blocks that my little group will be making in the Michael Miller Clubhouse. There are still a few spots open if anyone would like to join us. This quilt makes a QUEEN people! Only $18/month & $5 teaching fee.

Although, I look at it as more of a "learning together" experience :)

Join NOW!!!

Fly Away Home!

2010-11-30T12:31:00.000-08:00

Flying Geese Method

I'm working on putting my Michael Miller Clubhouse quilt together for all to see (and hopefully come and join our monthly club!) and there are some flying geese.
I decided to research some different techniques for making flying geese and I found this one which is pretty neat. Ya'll might think I'm silly, but geez, you learn something new every day. Especially new quilting techniques. It seems like somebody is always coming up with a new idea, better technique, or God bless 'em a NEW RULER. (Don't we have a ruler for every darn thing these days?!)

Anyway, just thought I'd share :)

<3Bonnie Jean

Do My Bloggy Friends Like $5 Too?

2010-11-23T13:22:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a thing on Facebook where everybody promotes our page and when we get 50+ new friends I give everyone a $5 off coupon to use online OR in store.

And I though, well, what about my bloggy friends?! Surely they love free $5 off coupons as well!

So here I am. Tell your friends about our blog! I'm going to make it a little easier on you guys since following a blog is a little teensy bit more involved than "liking" our page on Facebook. (Although, if you aren't our friend on Facebook you definitely should be, because, obviously, it is super easy.) Anyway, so for my dedicated bloggy friends you guys only have to get 15 more people to follow and I will give you all a $5 off coupon!

Hurray! So get to sharing this blog with all your friends. I'm not stopping at the first 15, I mean, for EVERY 15 people there will be another $5 coupon.

Ahhh, $5. I can't wait for you all to get some free money :)

<3Bonnie Jean

For Those Still Clinging to Fall

2010-11-22T09:22:00.000-08:00

We just got in a few VERY cute bolts of fabric from Sandy Gervais. It is called Lollipop! Can't get much cuter than that.

This line has perfect fall colors...so warm & inviting!

DeAndra made a cupcake pot holder from this line! So cute!

Yes, we have fallen in love with these cupcake pot holders! They are super cute and pretty quick to make. Won't we all look fancy taking our turkeys out of the oven this Thanksgiving...

<3Bonnie Jean

Wishful Thinking...I Think

2010-11-19T09:08:00.000-08:00

Does anyone out there think that Black Friday shopping is fabulous? See, no one that I know believes this like I do. My family comes down from the wintry lands of Missouri to spend Thanksgiving with us, take naps on the couch, and basically distract me from watching the Iron Bowl. (disgraceful, I know)
The point is, for the past two years I've had to literally drag people out of bed to go shopping with me and to share in the adventure of Black Friday. My sister for some reason is not a Super Shopper (like me) & oh my goodness you wouldn't believe the absolute SLOTH-LIKE ability my cousin has when it comes to getting ready. Literally, you have to watch her very closely to even see her move.
So, by the time we get out the door and to the store all the good sales are gone and my companions are grumpy because I've had to yell at them all morning to "Get Moving People! Be excited!" like a Black Friday drill sergeant.

Yes, it's ridiculous. So I would really love to hear about your Black Friday shopping experiences. What do you do? Who do you drag, or who drags you? Do you have a big breakfast & take it slow or are you like that Target commercial (you know, the lady in the red jumpsuit, the really crazy one?)

This lady cracks me up. Is that you? I think there are really some people like that. I could be like that! If I had some liquid courage (Starbucks, anyone?!) and a sidekick.
I think.

<3Bonnie Jean

We like to party!

2010-11-18T12:55:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love an ugly Christmas sweater? You don't? WELL!

That's exactly why you should come to our 1st Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!!
Check out all the details HERE

Oh yes, it looks like fun. We are going to play games, give away prizes, have demos, and EAT! Only $5 for dinner and have your ticket(really ugly sweater) on and you are ready for a night of fun!!

Make this a wonderful, fun, night and boogy on down to Quilter's Refuge in your ugliest sweater.
Don't say you don't have one (I know you do!)

<3Bonnie Jean

Upcoming specials & events (YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!)

2010-11-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

If you love Christmas but are hating the stress that accompanies....well, we are trying to help you relieve some of that stress!

We are having lots of specials for you, all you have to do is take advantage of them! From free food, gift wrap, classes, and goodies to making your own sale....we're doing it.

Check out all the latest here....

Also, we had a teacher's meeting (where I learned to crochet! the picture is my second attempt...as the first dishrag I started kept losing stitches so it eventually began to take on a triangle form which I was teased mercilessly for so I defiantly stated that a triangle was my intent the whole time & I was crocheting a thong.)

Anyway! we scheduled a lot of neat classes which I will be putting up on the website asap. We've got everything from the Michael Miller Clubhouse with fun fabrics, to beginner applique block of the month, to paper piecing, to sewing!

Make sure to visit us throughout the holiday season for lots of fun, sales, & stress relief. If you'd like a postcard reminder of our upcoming Friends & Family shopping day just send an email to contact@quiltersrefuge.com (that's me!) with your address & I'll be happy to send you one!

FILL OUT YOUR DEAR SANTA WISH LISTS! This is your way to make your own sale!!

Have a wonderfully rainy cold day & drink some coffee for me! (I'm freezing.)

<3Bonnie Jean

Pictures from Quilt Market

2010-11-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

Check out all of the pictures from Quilt Market at this link!

Photos of our great adventure!!

The Winners Are Announced!

2010-11-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

Fate has drawn these names out of our hat! Congratulations to our winners and thank you to everybody who participated. Stay tuned for announcements of upcoming specials, sales, and other exciting things. Our online community is so inspiring and we love to reward you guys with free stuff and specials, only for you!

Ok, enough jibber jabber...here are the winners!

Jennie Flynn (Presencia Thread)

Darlene (Aurifil Thread Pack)

Stacey-Carter Hughes (Aurifil Thread Pack)

Daphne Oaks (Quilt Magazine)

Jean (Pattern + Button Pack)

Sandy (Charm Ruler)

Richelle Sandlin (Charm Ruler)

The winners were chosen from both our Facebook and our Blog participants. If your name is on this list, contact me at contact@quiltersrefuge.com with your info and we will get your prize mailed to you asap!

4 give aways...one post

2010-10-30T20:19:00.000-07:00

Ok ladies! I'm giving away four prizes in one post! Can we handle it? I think so!!! Here's your choices...

5 lucky people will win (1) 3 spools of Presencia thread, (1) Fons & Porter magazine, (1) Free Christmas embroidery pattern + accessory buttons!, and (2) Aurifil five piece thread packs!

leave me a (nice) comment & let me know what YOU want to win! I might just give it to you....
Pictures to come soon...ya'll just wouldn't believe it unless you've been. I left the vendor show today and I'm just bursting at the seams with new ideas and projects and things that I want to sew and share with you all!!!!
Have a great night & rest of the weekend.
WINNERS WILL BE DRAWN & ANNOUNCED ON TUESDAY NOVEMBER 2ND. COMMENT TODAY!!!

First Market Give-Away!

2010-10-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

This Charm Wizard ruler by Far-Flung Quilts if the first of many wonderful treats for you to win! Use this ruler to cut 5" squares, center a feature print, cut 2 1/2" squares, and cut 2 1/2" X 5" rectangles. Leave your comments now.

I've got two to give to you!!! Yay! More to come....Plus I was a dedicated photographer today like I promised, but I'm also tired. SO, you will get pictures and full details of our adventures tomorrow.
Right now I really just want to lay here in bed and give ya'll presents. Is that ok? I think so.

We Have Arrived!

2010-10-28T16:21:00.000-07:00

We pulled up to our hotel in downtown Houston this afternoon around 4. Houston, believe it or not, has a lot of traffic. Anyway, we felt like we looked pretty cool in our (rented) Chrysler 300. You kind of have to feel like a gangster when you are riding in one.

Am I right?
I thought I would share some pictures with you from today and yesterday. In revealing these photos I have decided that I am in serious need of some photography lessons. Tomorrow I promise to be much more diligent in my photo taking responsibilities. So do not laugh at these.

The first picture....well I'm not really sure what I was attempting to snap a pic of but I'm sure it was something really amazing (we were in a moving vehicle after all!)
Second picture...well will you just look at all those overpasses?! I love the feel of the downtown city area with its cute restaurants and art galleries but can you imagine having to drive anywhere?! No thank you. I will keep my lanes to 4 or less!
Lastly, we stayed at the Horseshoe CASINO & Hotel. Unfortunately I had no casino buddy, so my first gambling trip will have to wait until I can convince my husbands 80-something grandmother to get better and take me (she claims she will!) The view was amazing though. This is also where my first Turkey Burger experience occurred. And would you believe I ate the whole thing. I NEVER eat all of anything. It was amazing.

Now, for anyone who cares and for my own selfish reasons of posting incredibly cute pictures of my loved ones (mainly animals) here are two more to end the night.

The first is me at my final dress fitting (who doesn't love lace?!) and the second is my snuggly Meeko kitty that we just got moved into our house. I introduced him to this red fuzzy blanket and he forgot all about me!

More from Houston tomorrow. It is Schoolhouse (lots of classes!) and I will have photos of all quilting celebrities (hopefully.)

Bonnie Jean

Houston Bound Count Down

2010-10-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

First of all, my title rhymes and I'm pretty proud of that right now.

Second of all, we are leaving for Houston on Wednesday and I am so excited! We will be attending the 2010 Fall Quilt Market in Texas. And apparently what they say about things being bigger in Texas is also true for their tornadoes. Did anyone see these pictures on Today this morning?!

See the video and story here!

So let's all please keep our fingers crossed that the tornadoes don't show up while we are there.

Alright, so on the agenda we have dinners, parties, and lots and lots and lots of vendors to look at. I mean, LOTS. From what the previous attendees from the shop have made it sound like, I'm going to get my exercise! I should get some of those Shape Ups shoes.....

Anyway, I thought that it wasn't fair that I am getting to go and experience the wonderful world of market...so I thought that I would give stuff away to YOU that I get at market! Doesn't that seem fair? I think so.

So, if everything works out, every night I will post a picture of that days' goodies on Facebook and on here. All you have to do is comment, or become a follower and comment, OR even leave a comment on our Facebook page. And then a random winner will be chosen.

I'm pretty sure it couldn't get much easier. And the best part is...it's all a surprise! I don't know what I'm going to find there and I don't know what I'm giving away yet...but it will be wonderful, fresh, new stuff.

RULES: You may only win one time. You must leave a comment on our blog(and be a follower) or leave a comment on our Facebook (and be a fan)

That's it!!!

I can't wait to see what gifts are in your future :)

Bonnie Jean

King of the Casseroles

2010-10-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

yummmmmmmyyyyy!

So I just wanted to let everyone know that I made this chicken casserole last night for dinner. Oh My Gosh. It is amazing. It makes a humongous dish (13X9 overflowing!!) and it made my hubby very happy. If you need an easy, filling meal that will last you for a couple of days...this is your chicken. I even had some for lunch today, and yes, it was even more delish warmed up.

It's in the Gooseberry Patch Christmas book I featured in the blog yesterday. I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to cook every recipe in it.
And I am teaching myself to crochet (has anyone noticed all of the new releases that are coming out with crochet projects in them?!) My BOGO Mexican food night group looked at me like I'd lost it when I told them I was going home to practice my crocheting. haha.
Looks like I have a busy weekend..... :)
Bonnie Jean

Isn't It Wonderful....

2010-10-20T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm talking about marriage. I am having a perfectly wonderful time being married....so far. We'll have to see how the rest of the week finishes out. But for now, for the first 1 1/2 weeks of marriage....Bliss :)

Speaking of Bliss...here's some Bliss from Moda.

Now, if this fabric isn't calling your name you must not be listening hard enough. I think it needs to be curtains in my cute little kitchen. Yes, I say cute which actually means "very small and nowhere to put all of my dishes". But I think everyone should have to start out with a cute kitchen. It's just how it's done.

NEW ARRIVALS: BOOKS

This book arrived yesterday and is just chock full of Christmas-y goodness. Not only does it make you want to cook, by the time you look halfway through it you want to learn how to knit, crochet, and pull out your acrylic paints. It's simply wonderful.
This, so far, is my second favorite reason that I am now married: I get to decorate my cute house with incredibly cute homemade goodies and impress my hubby & relatives. Hurray! This book will have me well on my way to being a Christmas decorating celebrity :)

If anyone needs something to do Saturday night, we are having a Scrap-In right here at Quilter's Refuge. (1000 Beltline Rd. SW Ste. V2 Decatur, AL 35601 for you GPS users) You can still sign up online or come by the shop. We provide dinner, snacks, games, irons & boards, cutting mats (bring your own cutters), tables, and electricity. Bring your unfinished projects and sew all night long!! It's the best $15 you can spend on a Saturday night!!
<3Bonnie Jean (Decker) now McCormick!

The Results Are In + A Mystery...

2010-10-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

53% of those who took our poll chose to shop at non-quilt stores because of price.
So the best question ever.... Quantity? or Quality?

We might not ever know....if you owned a quilt shop, how would you reach out to those who search for a lower price point than quilt shops are able to go to? We want everyone to have something that will last forever when they finish their project.
This is something that is hard for me, as I've always been a bargain shopper. But over the past couple of years I've discovered that some things you've just GOT to spend money on. Maybe it's a big expense now, but you won't have to replace it in a year.

On a much more exciting note...there's a Mystery!! We are starting this mystery quilt program in November & we would love to have everybody participate! Who doesn't need some suspense in their lives?

There are two color ways "Travel by Day" & "Travel by Night". These are our color choices and you don't HAVE to do them, but they are an option!! See all the details here...

Also, what are your thoughts on this fabric line? I'm lovin' it! ....in the words on Ronald McDonald. ;)

This is Etchings from StudioE. Check out the whole line here! This is the first fabric line that I've gotten to make the big decision on and order, so I'm really excited about it. Calm and cool, perfect for any time of year. I think it will be perfect for a 'modern' quilt, purses, or cute little clothes :)
Let me hear your thoughts!!

Scandalous!

2010-09-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

Most of us don't believe in buying fabric from Wal-Mart or Hancock's or well...anywhere but our local quilt shop! It seems like there is a huge gap between those who strictly shop at "quilt shops" and those who buy their fabric and supplies other places. It seems like quilters are more upset about their local Wal-Mart closing out their 'fabric' sections of their stores than when one of their local Quilt Shops closes it's doors.

What's the answer!!!

I would love to hear your comments on why you shop at non-quilt stores and what you think about their fabric. Please feel free to take the poll to the left of the page and also leave a comment on this post.

Well Hello Fall!

2010-09-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

As long as I have lived in Alabama, the weather still surprises me. Two days ago it was 100 degrees. Today the temperature is hovering at a chilly 50 degrees with a high of only 77. Brrrr!

As I am already dreaming of Spring...look at these!

Oh yes, these are our laminated fabrics due to arrive in January. Won't they make cute raincoats?!

Or this cute hat...

And being a huge Dr. Seuss fan (who hasn't read all of his books?!) I was pretty excited about his arrival in our store...

Shop Dr.Seuss Here!

I'm pretty proud of my little artwork there.... courtesy of Picnik (anybody can use this to edit their photos, and it's free!!) Well, that's all for this morning. Time to refill the coffee cup!

<3Bonnie Jean

Work in Progress...

2010-09-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

Ada (a quilting miracle worker I think) has completed the middle section of the new Civil War Chronicles block of the month program that is starting in January.

Oh, it is just gorgeous! We already have quite a few people signed up, and we hope to have a lot more! This is a quilt that you will treasure and pass on to your children and grandchildren.

I am so excited to see it finished!!

Football Fridays

2010-09-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

We all love football right?

Well, maybe not! But you will after this deal. Help us celebrate fall and football season every Friday starting tomorrow (the 17th).

It's so easy to score with this special. Come into the store on Fridays and wear your favorite team's jersey or other licensed wearable. That's it! You save 10% on regularly priced items.

That's not all of course. We want you to win the National Championship (Roll Tide!!) which will include a $50 gift certificate, a football quilt pattern, and a football themed goody basket! You will get your name entered in the drawing every Friday that you come in and make a purchase.

For my wonderful online customers, don't worry! You can participate too. Only on Fridays regularly priced merchandise will be 10% off. You will also get your name entered to win the Championship for every purchase you make on Fridays only.

It would be really great if you guys wanted to post some pictures of what you do on Game Day. Food, outfits, family time, anything would be fun.

So post up to our Facebook. I'll feature the pictures on our website! (Right below where you post a comment it says "Attach" and then click picture!) If you need help just send me an email and I'll be glad to help you.contact@quiltersrefuge.com

A Little Sneak Peak...

2010-09-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

I got so inspired the other day when our Moda rep came to visit. We ordered some very cute fabric, and even cuter books! (Like this Bareroots Embroidery book) I am trying to expand our "quilting" world to include sewing projects as well. Modern is the trend right now and I want to be sure we get everyone involved! I'm hoping these little new projects will inspire some younger generations to get their creative juices flowing...through their sewing machine and into handmade projects.

I'm very excited that we ordered some laminated fabric. The possibilities are endless with this stuff! Like this hat for instance...

Wouldn't you love to wear this on a rainy Spring day? I would....I think I will have to make one. Or a few.

And I also love these lunch bags. I think these are such a great way to show your creativity and individualism! Anybody can go to Wal-Mart and get a lunch bag...but how many can make one of these? Love it! So excited to make all of these new little projects.

I also cajoled Gina into ordering a couple of these neat books...

I got to glance though it, and it is just full of neat history, ideas, and 'vintage notions' as the book is titled!

I hope everyone is enjoying football season. Somehow I ended up with two fantasy football teams...hmm. But miraculously I am winning!! woohoo!! My fiance is not as excited, as I beat him last week :)

That's what he gets I guess!! Make sure to join us online & in store for Football Fridays, coming up the 17th!!

If you are looking for a neat blog to follow, I've been reading "The Rabbit & The Duck" based in Australia. She is a handmade queen and I enjoy reading her posts! Check her out. The Rabbit & The Duck Blog

Block of the Month Programs

2010-09-03T07:55:00.000-07:00

It seems that there are a million Block of the Month programs available these days to participate in (or offer!). Although our quilt shop has just started it's Internet sales, believe me, we are trying our best to get out there and offer you some Block of the Month programs.

Currently underway, we have Holidays at Home, a fun quilt using Strip-It fabric. I think this Block of the Month is unique in it's technique.

Next we have Civil War Chronicles...the quilt after Civil War Tribute. This one begins in January and is great for learning new piecing techniques.

Holly Lane is currently underway. It's a gorgeous Holiday quilt with minimal applique for the beginner. The piecing isn't too hard either! A perfectly simple quilt.

Now the question is...what do you want? Let us know! We want to feature Block of the Months that are inspiring to you. Do you all love applique? Or do you want some challenging piecing? Or a great beginner quilt?

We are going to be revising our line up over the next couple of days and I want us to be able to fill every class! So tell me what your favorite is so I can get your votes in to "the boss". :)

Have a great weekend quilters! Make some time to make something pretty!

Donations to Lexi House

2010-08-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Vicki Howell made nearly 30 pillowcases out of her stash and we are donating them to Lexi House.


Look at all these cheery bright fabrics!

Lexi House is a local charity that supports women and children that are in situations beyond their control. Visit their site here to learn more about them. We hope that these pillowcases will bring some comfort and cheer to those that receive them!

Thanks Vicki for all of your hard work. Vicki has also made many, many, pillowcase dresses for the Little Dresses for Africa organization.

I hope that if any of you are able you will support your local charities and organizations!!

Check our our Quilter's Refuge coozies! Now you can represent your local quilt shop (or your online quilt shop!) while keeping those talented fingers safe from cold!! $2.99 in our online store :) You know you want one.

By the way, if anyone wants to sign up for our email newsletter, then you need to do it before August is over. Why? Well, you get a free pattern this month of course through Quilt Shop Carousel.

Visit their site at www.quiltshopcarousel.com to get 12 free patterns from 12 super cool quilt shops (Quilter's Refuge is on there of course!)

And here's a quick link to sign up for our newsletter! Sign up here!

Up, Up, and.... Away?

2010-08-16T12:01:00.000-07:00

That is what our fabric prices are doing. And I'm wondering how long they can push the prices upward. I wanted to know if anyone had any thoughts about this. Just in the last two years I have seen fabric prices go from $7 - $8 a yard to their current prices of $10 - $11! Batiks are even more expensive than that. (They are so darn pretty though!)

I love fabric, but I'm wondering how far the customers' love of fabric will stretch their pocket books?
What do ya'll think? Will you still be buying quality quilting fabric if you have to spend $10 or more a yard, or will you resort to lower quality fabrics from larger retailers?

It's a hard choice to make. Click here to read some of the latest on cotton prices!

Speaking of cute things....

I love this Paper Dolls fabric from Windham fabrics. How cute!!

And last but not least, I'll leave ya'll with a "before" picture of one of Ada's (an amazing quilter, a very sweet lady, and a wonderful friend) quilts in progress. She used one of our Jelly Rolls and is whipping up a simply sweet quilt. Finished pictures soon!

<3Bonnie Jean

Pie Stuffed Cake, and Bacon Explosion!

2010-08-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

My good friend Ryan Wade shared this link with me on my Facebook page, and oh my gosh, I just had to share with my good friends!! Quilting and food somehow seem to go together...especially sweets. Don't ask me how that one happened! But with all the jelly rolls, honeybuns, and turnovers, there had to be a real life Layer Cake...and this is it!
Pie stuffed cake

Can you believe this thing?! Click the link above to see the recipe. I hope someone will make this thing! It's cherry, pumpkin, and apple inside of yellow, white, and spice cake.
YUM.

I am an old fashioned kind of girl, I have to admit. I make my pie crust from scratch and I think it's much sweeter to bring a homemade dish to dinner than anything else. I will post pictures of my apple pie and Gibson chess pie that I'm making this afternoon, tomorrow.

By the way, if you are looking to make your man incredibly happy (or give him a bacon induced heart attack) make sure to check out this recipe as well! Bacon explosion from bbqaddicts.com

My soon to be husband LOVES bacon. I'm thinking we are going to be testing this one out this weekend!!

Ok, now that I've tempted you, don't eat too much!!

<3Bonnie Jean

And the winner is....

2010-08-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Nancy Sue!! Thank you for your comment Nancy. Nancy will get to choose between a 12 Days of Christmas Charm Pack and a Fruit Cake charm pack for her prize.

We hope everyone is enjoying their Air Conditioning as much as we are. Don't forget we are celebrating our a/c this week with 10% off Christmas fabrics and we're giving away free icy cold bottles of water, lemonade mixers, and a cute Quilter's Refuge coozie to keep your fingers from freezing! All online customers will receive this coozie along with their regular free fat quarter and extra gift!

Now if only fall would get here already...I want to make something with these Halloween fabrics...

Aren't these fun?! I think Halloween might be my favorite holiday. What is yours?

Have a fabulous week and don't forget to send me your addresses so I can send you a postcard that you can redeem in store on September 1st during our Anniversary sale, or use online for 15% off on October 1st.

Also don't forget that this month's Quilt Shop Carousel is going on...and we are participating!! You get 12 Free patterns just for signing up for your online quilt shops mailing lists. Check out Quilt Shop Carousel here.

Of course, I think our quilt is the prettiest!! Our free pattern that you will receive when you sign up for our newsletter is "Come Together". We used the new line from StudioE called "Layered Nature".

It doesn't get prettier than that! You can buy the kit HERE.

Make sure to get your free patterns. They will only be up for one month.

<3Bonnie Jean

Free again?!

2010-07-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

I guess Free stuff is just on my mind lately. If you guys haven't heard of it already Quilt Shop Carousel for July is still going on and you need to participate. Well, there's not too much participation...you really don't have to do much to get a free pattern. And these patterns are fabulous too! They are projects you'll actually WANT to make! Check out the current sites and their free patterns and then make sure you stop in at our website in August to receive our FREE pattern!

All for fun and fun for all, on the Quilt Shop Carousel!!

Take a look at the site by clicking HERE!

FREE fat quarters...

2010-07-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, FREE fat quarters to all of our favorite online followers! Send Quilter's Refuge an email with your address included and we'll send you a postcard to redeem at our 6th Anniversary Sale (September 1st). Are you a far away follower? Well, send us your address anyway and we'll send you a postcard with a code to use online that you can redeem for 10% off a future purchase!

Click here to send us an email!

We appreciate all of you that participate in our online fun!

Have a FABULOUS day!

<3Bonnie Jean

We LOVE Free :)

2010-07-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

And we know you love FREE too! So I'll be giving away a free Christmas charm pack. Deadline to leave a comment or post a picture is July 30th so get to it ladies & gents.

Take a look at what you could be winning....

12 Days of Christmas charm pack from Moda...

OR

Fruitcake by Basic Grey for Moda

Join in the fun! Also make sure to keep an eye out for some extra specials I'll be posting on Facebook and on here for our upcoming sale in September.

Let's Remember Where It Started...

2010-07-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

With the most famous seamstress of all...Betsy Ross. She even showed up George Washington, who suggested a 6-pointed star, and showed them how to make a 5-pointed star in one snip! (See how to do it yourself HERE!) It just goes to show you that you can't do anything without some sewing/quilting involved, including beginning a new country! You go Betsy!!

While your chin is held high, knowing us crafty ladies once helped begin this nation, we also need to take the time to reflect this Fourth of July on the lives that have been lost defending our country.

I don't think it matters whether you support the current war or if you are strongly opposed to it. The one thing I believe we can all 'unite' on is that we care about all of our soldiers and want them to be safe! My cousin is a Marine and is currently serving his first tour overseas. While we don't know where he is, we always pray that he is safe and sound.

So make sure you take the time to remember the soldiers, both present and past, while you're grilling hot dogs and swimming. Let's remember to be thankful for all that we have (especially fabric!) this 4th! Check out more info on Betsy Ross at this website.

Cake picture courtesy of cakecentral.com

Tis The Season...

2010-06-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

For yard sales of course! You can't hardly drive down a street without passing a sign...

Now the amazing thing about yard sales is, that a lot of the time people have no idea what they are getting rid of! Always make sure to be on the lookout for quilt tops. Gina, the owner of Quilter's Refuge was given two quilt tops that someone found at a yard sale. They have newspaper on the back of them from WWII! How amazing is that?! Here are some pictures of the newspapers on the back of them and the fronts of the quilts.

The back of the first quilt.

March 30, 1950

The front of the first quilt.

The front of the second quilt.

Nurses needed!!!

Don't we WISH fabric was 0.15/yard!!

So make sure to keep an eye out for some treasures like these! You never know what you'll find.

<3Bonnie Jean

If cleanliness is next to godliness...

2010-05-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

Where does organization fall? Not next to me, that's for sure! But I do try and I know there are so many helpful ideas out there now to assist all of us in keeping our many projects (and toys!) organized. I mean, how can you quilt without every gadget ever invented anyway?

#1 Organizer - Storage boxes!!

How can anyone live without Rubbermaid?! They come in every size, shape, and color for you to cram all of your half finished projects into and instantly they transform into perfectly organized containers that you can slap a label onto...and bam! YOU have organized something.
Simply amazing. And super cheap.

#2 Organizer - Desktop Trays!

This cute little tray is less than $10 bucks at Wal-Mart and how can you resist putting all your little knick knacks in the separate cubbies! In addition to this make sure you have somewhere to put all of your writing utensils/scissors. Use a big jar/mug to keep all of these in one place and you'll be amazed how nice it is to not have scissors and pencils lying around.

#3 Check out these Tips from HGTV. If you need to do some serious organizing, check out the tips from HGTV to get started. It doesn't have to be overwhelming!

#4 Take a look at this link to see what your organizing style is from Good Housekeeping. When you've puzzled it out and finally admitted to yourself what you true organization technique is, click on it and voila! A list of tips JUST FOR YOU! and how you organize. Love it!

So, organizing can be easy...we just have to have a little willpower and DO IT!
Don't forget to let me know what works for you!

Just Say Ahhhh!

2010-05-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

It's cloudy outside and about to rain so I thought I'd share this drink with ya'll! There is nothing that cheers me up faster than to sip on something sweet in the summertime. How about that for an alliteration?!

I found this drink recipe on Gourmet Sleuth's website and was refreshed instantly.

Aguas Frescas

These cool drinks are made with water, fruit and a sweetener (typically sugar) and are commonly served in Mexico by street vendors in barrel shaped clear jars called a vitrolero.

Ingredients

Fresh fruit such as pineapple, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, strawberries
Granulated white sugar
Water

Instructions

To make just take any ripe fruit (common flavors include pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, strawberry and papaya) blend till smooth, add water to thin to a light consistency and sweeten to taste with sugar. Depending on the fruit you may need to strain the mixture to remove any seeds or small bits, the drinks should be the consistency of water (thus the name).

Now if ya'll didn't know this already, allrecipes.com is a fabulous website (and they've also got an app for all you iPhone owners out there AllRecipes Dinner Spinner (free!) and I use their App all the time! They also have a list of drinks you have to check out.

We all need a little refresher now and then! If you have any great summer sipping ideas let me know! I'd love to try them :)

<3Bonnie Jean

Natural Progression

2010-05-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

I think because I've been around quilting all my life I've felt like it is THE BEST of the fabric related hobbies. But the other day we got some fabric in....

And my goodness...I just HAD to make something out of it. And I just HAD to have it where I could wear it! So I searched and found an easy shirt pattern. As I've never sewn a shirt before it was definitely a new experience for me. At least I've had to cut out a purse pattern before so I wasn't completely lost!
Now the shirt is complete (I even used a double needle!) except for the collar. They failed to mention that I would have to put a collar on this shirt. If they had, it should have been in the form of a huge red warning label. Collars are hard!!
I'll post a picture of the complete shirt soon!

As quilters, and basically as humans, we are so adaptable! It amazes me more and more every day. In little ways, like me adapting my quilting skills to sewing skills, and in much larger ways, like our whole country! So I guess it is the natural progression of things for quilters to become seamstresses and for needlepoint queens to take up knitting. It's so nice that we can all adapt and grow in our skills!

Has anyone tried any interesting new project lately that you felt really challenged you? Post a picture or tell us about it. Heck, we might end up trying it ourselves. :)

<3Bonnie Jean

How Much of Your Green do You Spend on Being Green?

2010-05-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

The 'Green' movement has become very popular over the last few years. As you can imagine, quilt shops go through a huge amount of cardboard. From the boxes all of our goodies come in, to the very bolts that gorgeous fabric is wrapped on, we can amass a huge amount of it. At Quilter's Refuge we have always taken all of our cardboard to the recycling station down the road. The city, however, has decided to close this recycling station down due to the large amount of people who just throw their junk in the bins! I have to admit this is one of my pet peeves. It's just rude! But I understand the cities position. Do you continue to encourage those uncaring people to dump their junk on you by not doing anything about the problem? Or do you take away the recycling site and leave those faithful recyclers with nowhere to go? It's a hard decision!!

So it got me thinking about the Earth and quilters. What do we do to support the Green movement? As a quilt store, I've got to admit it's hard. We do recycle our paper, cardboard, ink cartridges, and the like, but the other day someone asked for organic fabric?! Does anyone else out there carry organic fabric? I can only imagine how expensive it must be...would anyone buy it?

So many questions!!
I've created a quiz and hope you'll take it and give me your opinions! Let me know what you think about going Green, and let me know if you have any ideas!

Here's a few interesting links I've found that I thought you might enjoy!
10 Easy Ways to Recycle
What is YOUR carbon footprint?
How to reuse Fabric Softener Sheets!
This BLOG is Green! It's definitely an interesting read.

Roving Quilt Correspondents -- In Paducah!

2010-04-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

We've got 4 ladies from the shop up in Paducah taking in all the quilts, vendors, and classes. They sure are having fun...I think Gina and I will let them work next time and we'll go to the show! Here's the latest update from them...and all of their funny pictures!

Thursday--

We have survived our first day at the quilt show and our dogs are barking! Going through the show with all the quilting ladies is a hazardous experience. Everyone has a different sized homemade bag filled with all their goodies. One lady swung around and I almost ended up losing a boob. Linda also almost beheaded a woman with a bolt of fabric at Hancock's. Even though Barb only goes 1/2 a mile an hour we lost her in the crowd. So far Ada has behaved, but there is always tomorrow!
Coming attractions:surprise pictures with the quilting cow?????
We are back at our hotel looking over all our goodies and preparing for Ada's foot treatments????
Talk to you tomorrow.
The roving quilting reporters signing off.

Friday--

We have just arrived back at our hotel after a full day of quilt mania in Paducah. Our feet don't hurt as much today as yesterday.No foot massages tonight. I had pictures of Linda giving Ada a foot massage and vis-a-versa but did't sent it because they were afraid it would end up on facebook. We maybe can bribe them with the photo at a later date!
We found this great quilt shop called Backyard Fabric and it was literally in the woman's backyard. It was a very peaceful spot with ducks swimming in the pond out front. It was a working farm so you could hear the cows off in the distance. Then it was off to Eleanor Burn's show and it seemed we had not left the farm,because her new book is about barns. As always , her show was a hoot and she is still stripping for a living!!!
Not many funny stories from today except for Barb trying to milk a 10 foot cow with a quilt on its back.They are expecting stormy weather here tomorrow so we are going to stay indoors. Barb can use her cane to "part" the crowds.

Roving reporters signing off for the night.

Barbara milking the quilting cow!
MORE TO COME!!

Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks!

2010-04-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

Today we were talking about tips and tricks that we've learned along our quilting journey. Cathy mentioned how she just recently tried a trick that she had always heard of but never tried. Isn't that so true for a lot of us? She needed to clean her iron (she had gunk built up from fusible) and so she tried ironing a dryer sheet. Of course it worked! She was amazed that it looked like it was brand new!
Sometimes we all need to take the time to try something new that we've ignored even though everyone says it works. It's hard to get out of a rut but when it comes to quilting, everything is changing so quickly I feel like we're being pulled in both directions. We're being asked to not only learn all these new tools and how to use pre-cut fabrics, but also I feel like a lot of people want to learn how their grandmothers quilted.
But that's the good thing about us I think. We are multi-taskers. And quilter's are some of the most open-minded and kind people I've ever met. (Especially for a majority of us being women and all getting along!) So let's try something old, try something new, and keep our minds receptive to tips from fellow quilters, because usually, they're right!
Fons and Porter always have a lot of great ideas. Here's a few of their easy ideas from their Sew Easy Lessons.

Bonnie Jean

Christmas Already?!

2010-04-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

I know ya'll probably hate it as much as I do when you walk into Wal-Mart in the middle of summer and they already have Thanksgiving decorations out. Or when you walk into Hobby Lobby looking for Thanksgiving decorations and you can't find any for all the Christmas decorations!! It seems like the world has sped up since I was little. Everything is in fast forward instead of playing normally.
It's nearly impossible to stay ahead in the retail world. Now we order Christmas fabric for next year as soon as Christmas is over for this year! And believe me, it's hard to do when the sun is shining and it's warm out. You need 'Christmas spirit' to cheerfully look at Christmas fabric and that is severely lacking in the Springtime! But we dutifully write down orders and sometimes can't help but get excited because, well, it's fabric! And we can't help but love some fabric!We've already gotten a Christmas Block of the Month program sign up started! We're doing Holidays at Home from Marcus Brothers with fabric by Faye Burgos and designed by Vicki Bellino of Bloom Creek. It's one of those timelessly elegant quilts that you just can't help but love. So we loved it, we got it, and now we're taking sign ups for it. If you're interested click here!

Today I'm going to try to take it slow and easy. It's hard to remember sometimes when there's so much to do but...I will try! I hope you all will too!

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-04-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Spring is officially here and we are welcoming it with open arms at Quilter's Refuge! Our April special has gone over well and our Friday $30 gift certificate winner was so excited.

Her daughter actually picked the egg out for her!
Tomorrow there will be another $30 gift certificate in the pot and we'll have another lucky winner! It would be great to spend that on some of this fabulous new fabric that's been arriving.......like Fresh Cottons and Fruitcake from Moda. Click here to check out all their new lines.

Or one of these cool new kits! There are 10 batik fabrics put together and we've started naming them. This green is Margaritaville. We've also got Tequila Sunrise (pictured), Strawberry Daquiri, and (coming soon!) Alabama Slammer! How fun!

What would you have named these kits if it had been you?

They really do have an app for everything!

2010-03-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you have an iPhone or iPod, but I do and I love it!
Just thought I'd share with ya'll a couple of the wonderful quilting apps that I found. If you do have an iPhone or iPod, search 'QuiltFab' in the AppStore. QuiltFab is an app that calculates all of your fabric for you, whether it be backing, binding, sashing, or block sizes!! How fabulous is that? There is also QuiltRef which has common quilt sizes, conversion charts, setting triangle calculator, and can even estimate the approximate number of stitches per inch!

Do you want to know the best part about both of these? They are both absolutely, positively FREE.
You just can't get any better than that. Be sure to check them out and let me know about your favorite Apps or programs that can help you out when you have a pressing quilting question.

<3 Bonnie Jean

Everything's Bigger In Texas!

2010-03-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello my Quilting Family!
Gina and I traveled to Quitman, Texas this past week to visit Ms. Debbie Luttrell at her fabulous quilt shop, Stitchin' Heaven. What? You haven't heard of Stitchin' Heaven?! Well visit their website. We participated in the Boot Camp for Shop Owners and had so much fun. Gina and I have decided it's the best thing we ever did for Quilter's Refuge. If you have a shop and would like to participate in the next Boot Camp just visit the Stitchin' Heaven website and contact Deb Luttrell. She is a wonderful lady and will be glad to help any of our fellow shop owners!

Deb and I on graduation day.
And me in Texas for the first time!

We are ready to go to work and change things up at the shop. It feels so good to have so many ideas running through my head and I'm ready to put them into action! Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas of things they would love to see in the 'Perfect' quilt shop? That is our goal...to make YOUR perfect quilt shop dreams come true!

We'll see you soon!
Bonnie Jean

New Beginnings

2010-03-02T13:02:00.001-08:00

It's always amazing to me how many people don't know very much about quilting or fabric. To us here at the shop that's all there is to know! To help solve this problem we teach a beginners piecing class and it always fills up. People want to know and learn and grow in their experiences and knowledge of different things. It always makes me so happy to see how people can come in here, not knowing the first thing about quilting, and leave the shop or the class in love with fabric and the creativity it inspires in all of us. Here are some of our beginner quilts made in our five week course....

It feels good to encourage others and to help them discover the wonderful art of quilting. Quilting is love, creativity, and fellowship and we all want to be able to spread a little more of that around in this world...especially when it is in the form of a comfy cozy quilt :)

Let the warm weather come quickly!!

-Bonnie Jean

Love is in the Air!

2010-01-26T11:50:00.001-08:00

I know I can feel it all around! Valentine's Day is one of the sweetest holidays (both emotionally and in regard to food) and I have to say I love the sweets. We recently got some new Valentine's day fabric in and it is just too cute! Take a look at this----

Absolutely precious! The panel, fabric, and kit to make a quilt out of the panel are on our website. http://www.quiltersrefuge.com/

I've been feeling a little down lately. The weather has been so gray and rainy and cold, I have just wanted to stay on the couch where it's warm and cozy! But the week before last our favorite UPS delivery man, Reggie, blessed us with his smiling face and 3 huge boxes. Inside were so many goodies I almost couldn't believe my eyes! Bright, sunshiny, happy fabrics waited, all tucked in their little box. You better believe we pulled those puppies out and put them up in the store immediately. It almost feels like we pushed winter a little farther into the past and wrapped a little more of spring around us. Here's some photos I snapped of these springtime fabrics---

We're almost there!! Spring is just around the corner. Come in and check out all the new gorgeous fabric we've gotten in. You'll be glad you did!

Bonnie Jean

Where's the Sunshine?!

2010-01-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

I don't know about ya'll but I am freezing. Hello?! Don't we live in the South?! Last time I checked I didn't sign up for below freezing temperatures for multiple days in a row! But the one good thing that I know might come from this is some beautiful snow and how can we not love that? Some clean white snow for a fresh start on our new year.

Our Christmas sale was a crazy and hectic week but I think everyone enjoyed themselves and got some great deals out of it too. We all love a good bargain :) Now we are starting to get our Spring and Valentine fabric in. The website has some new fabric on it and some precuts from these lines. And of course after market we ordered a TON of new fabric from Moda. The fabric representative came to visit and there was absolutely not one single line that we didn't love! I am so excited when new fabric comes in, it's like we get to have a million little Christmas's and birthdays all year long.

So to help fight the chill I hope you guys get to check out the new fabric on the website and even better, I hope you get to come into the store and feel all the beautiful fabric that is arriving. Just being around the bright colors and happy patterns makes spring, sunshine, and warm weather, feel like it is just that much closer. And we all need that right now!

Oh Christmas

2009-12-17T13:18:00.000-08:00

I don't know about everyone else but Christmas always manages to sneak up on me! Before I know it I'm one of those wild eyed shoppers in their pajamas in Wal-Mart on Christmas Eve. To help us all procrastinate a little less I found a couple easy gift suggestions to give to that "special" someone that we never know what to buy for them ;)

-Buy an inexpensive glass ornament and paint it, monogram it with a cute piece of Christmas fabric and mod-podge, and tie a pretty ribbon on top.

-Use a free coin purse pattern (you can find these online) they usually only take a few scraps of fabric and a zipper. Fill it with inexpensive necessities like chapstick, fingernail clippers, and a cute pen. Or even include a gift card! (to their favorite quilt shop of course!)

-Buy a festive Christmas mug and fill it with "Winter Necessities" such as hot chocolate, chapstick, mittens (you can get two pairs of these for a couple dollars at Target) and a small pack of tissues!

-For the man in your life go simple! All men really want is a good meal in their bellies so if you can cook, go all out with a fancy dinner to fill him up. Or if cooking is not your thing, take him out on the town and pay for everything. Believe me, giving him a break once in awhile is greatly appreciated!

-For the outdoorsman a good flashlight is always needed (make sure to pick up some batteries too!)

With any of these gifts your recipients will feel like you put some thought into your gift and they will actually use it! The plus side to this is that you'll break through on the other side of Christmas without having spent an arm and a leg, and you'll avoid all the crazy department stores.

Just a few of the things I was thinking about today...Now out I go into the fray to pick up a few things for dinner! Wish me luck!

Snow!

2009-12-05T08:33:00.000-08:00

Hello again!

In my December newsletter I said it wasn't going to snow and look what it went and did! Snowed! I should say it won't snow more often :) My two black labs, Annie and Ninja, had a blast. They were rolling in it, jumping on it, and eating it. They are just too cute!

Here are Annie and Ninja! My babies :)

Isn't Annie just beautiful!?!

And here's my handsome man Ninja!! (He wasn't ready for his picture obviously!!)

We just love snow this time of year. I'm at the shop today but wouldn't it be nice to just curl up with a nice hot cup of hot chocolate (with marshmallows of course) in front of the fire and watch a Christmas movie? This weather really puts me in the spirit. How about a yummy hot chocolate recipe to get you started this Christmas season?
Here ya go!

Thanks to www.allrecipes.com

YUMMY! Candy Cane Cocoa
Original Recipe Yield 4 (1 cup) servings

Ingredients
4 cups milk
3 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, chopped
4 peppermint candy canes, crushed
1 cup whipped cream
4 small peppermint candy canes
Directions
In a saucepan, heat milk until hot, but not boiling. Whisk in the chocolate and the crushed peppermint candies until melted and smooth. Pour hot cocoa into four mugs, and garnish with whipped cream. Serve each with a candy cane stirring stick.

--bonnie jean

Boot Camp

2009-11-30T06:34:00.000-08:00

In March I will be traveling to the state where everything is bigger (including their quilt shops) to attend the Boot Camp for shop owners hosted by Deb Luttrell. Take a look at their website http://www.stitchinheaven.com/ and tell us what you think! Texas is a long way away but I'm so excited! There will be a lot to learn and a lot of information to bring back and put into action. Hopefully this will make your experience at Quilter's Refuge all the more exciting and fulfilling.

--bonnie jean

Our First Adventure

2009-11-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

Hello! Here I am, my first ever post in our blog. I am excited and hope you are too. Let me tell you a little about ourselves.
We are a quilt shop in Decatur, Alabama and have been in business for nearly five years. Gina Decker is the owner, avid quilter, and lover of fabric. She also has a weakness for patterns (which I know some of us can relate to!) We have 8 part-time employees, two of which are Gina's daughters, Bonnie (me!) and Sarah. We carry everything you need to begin and finish a quilt, from 100% cotton fabric, notions, books, patterns, wool, flannel, and batting. We also always have lots of advice, help, and opinions in stock.
Our new website is up and running http://www.quiltersrefuge.com , so come and visit. Or, if you're in the area, swing by the shop. We will be waiting with a warm welcome, helpful advice, and of course, lots and lots of gorgeous fabric to drool over. :)

I'll talk to you all again soon. I hope we can become great friends and I look forward to hearing all of your thoughts, opinions, feelings, and suggestions!

--bonnie jean