Reflections and Predictions- my 2 cents

I'll be answering the questions from my perspective as a quilter rather than a garmet sewer. 

Looking back at the 2011 sewing scene, what trends stand out in your mind?

  Gray every where and I was thrilled about it. I really hated that harsh hard white. 

Hand applique - or is that just me?

lots of Mid Mod design everywhere.

in the last couple months Im obsessed with single block quilts - or non pieced blocks ie. triangles, tumblers, etc.

What were some of your favorite things related to sewing this past year?
 For me it was Friends Fabric and Fun :)
Other than Kona solids ... I love RJR brand, Northcott , some of the Bellas ..Im happy to see them in stores and being used... 

What did you make that you’re most proud of? 

This project and learning this blossom pattern and learning it well enough to quilt it out. I can feel my confidence building as a quilter.  I'm becoming more comfortable with my skills and exploring ways to use it to express my creativity. I feel like I have a more of voice.

What sewn projects have you seen this year that you absolutely love?
That School house Tunic! Made me want to sew a garment... :D not very likely but made me want to. 

Do you have a favorite sewing book or pattern from the past year to recommend?
Susan Beal's Modern Log Cabin. I just loved that book! I generally don't buy books or use patterns but it was a great book and got me making a log cabin.. or two. I love that she included History and  paid respect to the ladies before us.

Are there any trends you’re over and done with?

Aqua... I have so much of it in my stash its unlikely I'll ever be with out in my quilts though. I really need to make my Red/Aqua quilt before that goes out completly .. 

the zigzag quilt or 2 rail fence- yawn

coin quilt-  double yawn

Kona kona kona... there are other brands of solids  and some of them ROCK!

What are your thoughts about social media? How is it going for you? What do you love or hate?

I love that its social and fun.. I love all the great charity hookups and ways to help folks who need it. 

I love Flickr still... wonderful! twitter..rocks! facebook..Hi Friends!

im not on pintrest... seems like one more thing... Im full. 

I love store blogs.. tell me what you have, when it comes in, if I can preorder..very helpful... 

I hate that monetized blogs who get stuff for free and then push it, get this iron, get this fabric ... but don't say that it was a free item and that they are being paid to review...  my hackles are kinda up on that... If I read too often " go this store" 'buy this product" "I only use this brand" I am actively unfollowing... 

Did you have a favorite fabric collection or print in 2011?

Paris Apartment gray stripe..

A lot of Betty Dear by Robert Kaufman made me swoon...

Echo- I want to lick Jansdotter!

What do you predict for 2012 in the sewing industry?

Now that I have a great stash I'll be buying less fabric

With 1 in 4 children food insecure I think there will be more charity quilting... 

Im going crazy for neutrals, moda wovens and shirtings...   

I higher focus on quality..

Can you tell us what to expect from you in 2012? Any big projects or life-changing goals?

Im taking a more active role in caring for an elder but I expect to be doing lots more charity quilting and quilting  for my friends...  

I've kinda cleared my schedule so Im gonna be having some fun...im excited... 

I have some great quilt projects in the works.. I cant wait.

I'll changing the focus of my blog to more local charity work/quilting. With 50% of this country lowincome/poverty I feel very called to this mission. My life is so blessed I feel obligated to help. 

Quilters Rock!