Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Quilting Stencil Giveaway has ENDED

For the past few months I've been hand quilting some quilts for my next book, due out next year. I know I blog about hand quilting again and again so forgive me for repeating myself. Some of you have heard this before but I like to encourage others to try hand quilting because it can be so satisfying and fun as well.  AND - this week I'm holding a giveaway for some fun stencils for quilting your small quilts to make it even easier for you.

NOTE:  This giveaway has now ENDED.




The Stencil Company has generously offered to let me give away a couple of their small stencils to six lucky quilters. Woo hoo!  To win a set of stencils, leave me a comment. Include your e-mail, link to your profile with an e-mail or another way for me to reach you so I can let you know you've won. If you do not leave your e-mail in your comment or profile then I will have to pass over your comment and go on to the next one. This happens quite a bit when I hold giveaways, sorry to say. I will pick six winners at random and announce them on Friday, August 11. Good luck!


Small quilts that are quilted very simply really appeal to me. When I over-quilt one of my scrappy quilts, it seems to take away from the fabric and I prefer it if the fabric is showcased and not overwhelmed by fancy stitching. That's just me.


For many of us, the act of sitting and sewing small stitches by hand can be almost meditative. The repetitiveness involved soothes, relaxes and calms your mind and lowers your blood pressure. Yes, it's actually good for you.


Little quilts are perfect for practicing your hand quilting. I think it really adds something to these small projects and I always like to do my part to encourage quilters to try it. Even if the first one you try isn't all that good, keep at it and you'll get better. When I've been away from it for awhile and then pick it up again those first few lines of stitching are a little less straight than I'd prefer. But it comes back quickly and you pick up a certain rhythm if you do it long enough and get in the "zone." Straight-line quilting is often easy enough for beginners and if that doesn't quite do it for you, you can always try a quilting stencil to add a little more pizzazz to your quilt.



Quilting stencils are easy to use with a water soluble marking pen or another type of fabric marker. Your local quilt shop probably carries stencils in different sizes along with marking tools. You can often find stencils at booths when you shop at the larger quilt shows. You can also find them online. The Stencil Company sells a nice variety of stencils for small quilt blocks and borders and they have a whole page dedicated to my followers - Sentimental Quilter - on their website.


This little wavy stencil is one of my favorites and I like to use it often. Simple, but a little bit special without overpowering the border.


I don't ever plan on winning any prizes for my hand quilting. I'm not afraid to admit that I still enjoy making things even if I'm not perfect at them. If I waited until I did things perfectly I'd never make anything! A friend of mine said she thought all hand quilting was always supposed to be done free hand and so she was hesitant to try it because she had no skills and was afraid she'd never get her lines straight. 

Goodness, if this is what's keeping you from trying it, please take advantage of tools that make quilting easier. There's a product called Tiger Tape that helps you learn to space your stitches evenly if you're just beginning. You line up the tape along the place you want to stitch and then follow the markings on the tape to keep your stitches in line. If it helps you stitch straighter lines, why not use it? There's no rule that says quilting has to be done a certain way except among the purists or if you're entering your quilt in a show. Then, of course, it matters and it should be perfect. But, if you're just beginning and hesitant to try for this reason - remember, in the 19th century, some wonderful antique quilts were hand quilted. If you take a close look, you'll see that not all of them were necessarily quilted with exceptional skill. Even the average quilter hand quilted her quilts. We all have to begin somewhere and the point is to enjoy the process. You get better with practice. 


If you do become inspired to try hand quilting, you can try several different pens or pencils to mark your stitching lines. There are Sewline colored lead pens or pencils. I've tried a chalk marker but found it erased too easily and I couldn't see the lines. Some like Frixion pens. After trying several different products, I prefer to use a use a fine-point washable quilt marking pen and have found several made by the Clover company that work well and wash out nicely. I use a Clover blue water-soluble marking pen on lighter fabrics and a Clover white pen for marking my darker fabrics. Despite my preferences, some of these other pens may be good options for you so try a few of them and see. You need to find what works best for YOU. 



Here's a tip: Whichever marking tool you try, follow the directions on the package.  If you decide to use a washable marker, after you finish quilting, do not press or place your quilt in the dryer until you are sure that all of the markings have been washed out. I have almost ruined a quilt by not being careful. Depending upon the pen, some markings will be set with HEAT and won't come out easily. (The Frixion pen markings apparently disappear with heat and reappear when cold so again, check the directions.) Just take your time, put on your glasses so you can see the lines (that's a reminder to myself!) and gently wash the top of the quilt with a damp cloth until all of the markings are off. Then, let it air dry. If you can still see some marks, wash it again.

If you believe that hand quilting is really too difficult even before you begin, all I can say is try it before you decide it's not for you. It really doesn't have to be perfect - you will get better with practice. Or, maybe, like me, you'll find that it won't matter if your stitches aren't exactly perfect. My intentions are always good, but sometimes quirky, childlike stitches suit me and my quilt just fine. 



Border stencils that measure 2 or 2.5 inches are perfect for quilting the borders of many of my small quilts and these are some of the ones I'll be giving away.


You can also find stencils in many different sizes that match the size of your blocks. 


Go ahead -  mark the lines with your preferred marking tool. It washes out!


Then, stitch on the lines with a nice glazed cotton quilting thread. I prefer the YLI brand in light brown since it is not as stark as white thread against medium and dark fabrics. It's really more of a tan and goes well with 1800s reproduction fabrics.


Follow the directions on the pen or pencil to erase or wash off the markings. I always play it safe and use cold water instead of hot when I wash mine. 

I am clearly not an expert and my stitches could be a little smaller and straighter for sure but it's still so much fun to sit and stitch and see what the quilting adds to finishing a quilt.  It doesn't have to be heavily quilted - straight lines or Xs are perfectly fine and good for practicing. Even a little bit of hand quilting will give a special look to your small, simple quilt. And, don't forget, if you make a mistake or find that your stitches are quirky or a little less than perfect - oh well, try not to worry too much. Antique doll quilts were not perfect either. We're just having fun here.






Leave me a comment about quilting or making small quilts and I will pick six winners and announce the names on Friday, August 11. Good luck! (And please read the directions!)

*  *  *

P.S. - It has come to my attention that some of you who signed up to follow my blog through e-mail to keep up when there are new blog posts have not activated your e-mail delivery account. When you signed up, you should have received a verification or activation e-mail afterwards. If you did not send a reply to verify your e-mail, it won't work and you will not receive updates. You may have to try again. The follow by e-mail button is on the blog sidebar.




226 comments:

1 – 200 of 226   Newer›   Newest»
Anonymous said...

I'm so glad you continue to encourage hand quilting! The Stencil Company has an awesome selection and quick delivery.
handstitcher@hotmail.com

Alcea Rosea 31 said...

I have only hand quilted two place mats but would love to do more.

Elizabeth said...

Love your work and am following you on facebook and instagram. What a fabulous prize. elizabethjbryan@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I really love to make miniature quilts and these stencils would work out great! I follow your blogspot and enjoy it very much.
Thanks! nettiecrain@live.com

fournieces said...

Love hand quilting and always have a handwork project going.

skpitt said...

Ooooh, this makes my fingers itch to get back into doing some hand quilting. I'd better get busy with a project!
skpitt@aol.com

carol said...

Hand quilting is the only way I have ever quilted. And small quilts are all I have ever done. The two go well together. jrhammock@comcast.net

Anita said...

Your hand quilting is beautiful and inspiring! I bought the wavy stencils awhile ago on your recommendation and love them! I follow you on instagram and face book.

Penny said...

I love your quilts. I think I have all of your books. Would love the stencils. Thanks, Penny
pmyers65@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful giveaway I love The Stencil Company and I lovs following you on Instagram and Facebook thanks for the chance to win!
cottonboll8503@att.net

Sheri said...

I love miniature quilts, tiny prints,and hand quilting. Your books are my favorites. I would be so happy to win the stencils.Sherarlen@cox.net

Nancy said...

I have never hand quilted but am a big fan of those Clover water soluble marking pens. I use them to do straight line quilting with my machine. I too like simple stitching that does not compete with the quilt.
Thank you for the giveaway!!

Buttercup said...

The hardest part for me is deciding on how to quilt a mini. A variety of stencils would be fantastic! Thanks oweiherquilts@gmail.com

Gypsy Quilter said...

It's always inspiring seeing your small quilts, as I love the way you put colors together. Thanks for thinking of us, as small stencils are lacking in my inventory.

annie said...

I have been a fraidy cat, my hand stitches are not good, and have held off hand stitching.
I'd like to try your stencils. I know I love your little quilts.
Hoping to read this post again, and actually try it by hand! It was a very encouraging post, thank you!
I would like to win the stencils.
I follow you on Facebook, and by email, but the email feed will post hours or sometimes the next day before it actually
Shows in my inbox I am not sure why, but I have been enjoying your blog for the last several years now.

Anonymous said...

Love the little projects you've done. The quilting is gorgeous!
angelwings012358@yahoo.com

Janie said...

I am a beginner at hand quilting, but I find it very soothing. I have not yet used a stencil, but would love to try!

~*~Leanne~*~ said...

I love small quilts! They are so fun to decorate with! I haven't had the confidence to hand quilt but using stencils would certainly help. Thanks for all your wonderful tips and this generous giveaway :-). myharvestmoon at yahoo dot com

Linda said...

I have been wanting to try this for a very long time. Thank you for the instructions.
lrc5306@gmail.com

Tina said...

I love small quilts and your work :) And I agree with you with regard to hand quilting. Very satisfying! tina.katzlaw@yahoo.com Thank you!

antoinette said...

I love hand quilting , and small quilts are fun to do . Nice on the table with some beautiful flowers on it !
I'm from the Netherlands and don't know if i can join this give away but i do hope so ;)

avanalphen28@gmail.com

May Britt said...

I love to hand quilt. It is so peaceful and relaxing. Handquilting a big quilt now and hope to finish it this fall. And I LOVE quilt stencils❤❤

Joy Meetis said...

I usually like to make traditional quilts but right now I am working on a Star Wars quilt my niece. I hand pieced, appliqued, and now quilting it. Hopefully I will be done by Christmas so I can start another one for my other niece. Then I can get back to what I'm used too!
joysnoop78@yahoo.com

QUILTING IS BLISSFUL, DI said...

I love your little quilts --always have--
and I love that you only hand quilt them--
as that is how I do mine--large or mid size or small--
I hand quilt them--
and I don't happen to have these stencils that you showed--
Enjoy the moments, di

Diane said...

I have several doll quilt tops awaiting inspiration to strike. Perhaps a new stencil design is all that's needed to see them to completion!

Heartsdesire said...

Hooray, another new book to look forward to. I've been trying some hand quilting on one of your small quilts that I made early in the year. I've been following your advice that you gave some time ago about thread, needle size, etc. and it is very valuable. Once you get over the idea that your stitches don't have to be absolutely perfect, then you can relax and enjoy the process. The tiger tape is a great invention also.
jahogan@shaw.ca

sunny said...

Your quilts are all beautiful! thanks for all the great info. I want to hand quilt, but I'm not quite there yet. Maybe some day.

Laura said...

Thank you for the chance to win these. Was just wondering how to quilt a couple of my small ones I have finished.

kmcallister said...

Love all of your quilts and would really love to win the stencils. That is one of my weaknesses!
kaymcallister21@yahoo.com

Debra said...

I've ordered from The Stencil Company in the past, and their selection is amazing! Hand quilting is very soothing for me, especially when I make small quilts. I recently had a Queen-sized quilt professionally machine quilted. The result was beautiful, but the quilting almost seemed to overwhelm the pieced top. Thank you, Kathy, for this opportunity!

Puri TresP said...

Me encanta acolchar a mano, para mí es lo más relajante que hay. Además, creo que el resultado final siempre es mejor que a máquina, queda precioso.
Ah, y adoro tus quilts, son tan bonitos, una verdadera inspiración!!
Gracias por todos tus consejos, un saludo y un gran abrazo desde España!!
Puri
mpf.parra@gmail.com

sue bennett said...

Hand quilting the small quilts make them look so vintage to me. I love to see them come to life with it.

Shelina (formerly known as Shasta) said...

I just finished a quilt that needed some more stitching, so I added hand quilting along with the machine stitching. It does add a certain charm to the quilt. I prefer the variability of the hand stitches that a machine cannot duplicate.

Lauren H. said...

I would love to win these stencils as I never really know what to buy for my mini quilts. I love scrappy and small and think hand quilting would be perfect on them. I've hand quilted one and must say I need practice!! Have all your books and have made several. Thanks for the chance to win. Can't wait to see the new book. Lhooked@aol.com

Unknown said...

I have been making little quilts for years and I hand quilt hem as the quilting process is the last portion of the whole process. I Enjoy choosing fabrics, the design and finally deciding on the quilting pattern. I often paper cut designs as many of the stencils have been too big in my collection so I'd love a little stencil to try..

Carla said...

So sweet of you, I would love a stencil to maken quilts more beautiful. Love your work! Greetings from Purmerend! Netherlands. Carla

Lorene Holbrook said...

How fun is this! I haven't tried hand quilting. Only a few things. And really big stitches! 😮

Anonymous said...

I do like to handquilt my small quilts, Kath. I have found that I like regular sewing thread instead of the stiffer quilting thread, as the sewing thread nestles down and lies flatter than the heavier quilting thread. I would be thrilled to win one of those small stencils!
Beverly in Grafton, OH

Charli T said...

M sew happy I found you on IG. I've always enjoyed your books and perhaps you will be the one to encourage handquilting again. Love the stencils and have several from the Stencil Co. plus a few of Grandmas.

Pauline G said...

justfinishedmy first completely hand quilted cot quilt and have found a newpassion - so some stencils would eb realy useful

Carla said...

Thank you for sharing your hints on hand quilting. I have used different marking methods and still don't have a favorite. I will have to try the thread color you recommend too. I like the way it looks on your quilt.

Lesley said...

I would love to try the stencils

Ingrid Aragón said...

I love miniature quilts and handquilting. I would love to try the stencils!

ingrid.aragon.faber@gmail.com

NADINE said...

This is such a GREAT and comforting post; THANKS for that !
To me there's Nothing like handquilting, no matter small or big, I never consider machine quilting them, or having them (expensively) professionnally quilted.
Handquilting gives such a smooth result, moreover it helps me meditate while doing it, I just love the rythm of stitching, and the sound of the thread coming and going through the layers. Actually, I think there's a lot of LOVE going into a quilt, while handquilting it, and that makes me happy (no matter my sore fingers :D )
Yet, I must admit the majority of my quilting is in echo (for the applique), or straight lines. I have seldomly used those handy templates (oooh, the wavy one for the borders !), simply because I can't find these in my little country corner of the world, and ordering them through the Web would cost me the double with the shipping costs...

Sorry for this long comment, and thanks again for giving us a chance.

In stitches,
NADINE

Jean said...

Those are very nice . I would love to win one of the stencils so much fun to quilt. Thanks for the offer.

Joan said...

Your little quilts are beautiful and the hand quilting is lovely. . Thank you for the great giveaway. I'd love to try the stencils.

Kathy said...

I love that you are encouraging a return to hand quilting. I did this year's ago and must find a way back with one of my quilts soon

Mary said...

What a nice blog post . Thank you for the chance to win a st Neil as well. I love to hand quilt. It is very satisfying to me.

Mary

Marsha B said...

I love hand quilting, especially every evening in front of the TV. Sometimes I don't even pay attention to the TV, it is just background noise while I sit and quilt. I loved my Great Grandma's hand quilted quilts, they just looked better to me. I have hand quilted everything from tiny doll quilts up to queen size ones. I just enjoy the process! Thank you for a chance to win some cute stencils, I need some new ones!

Titamomo said...

Beautiful little quilts and lovely quilting work! Nothing like hand quilting!! I am so happy to hear about the new book, look forward to It! Very nice stencils! Thank you for the giveaway!

Unknown said...

I agree that hand quilting can be very relaxing. I've been hand quilting for 20 years.
nmartin6229@comcast.net

proth said...

I look forward to reading your blog. I have learned SO much from you. If my husband would let me, I would have all the walls in the entire house filled with small quilts, and many of them would be your patterns. I have recently learned how to hand quilt and absolutely love it. I would love to have some more stencils.

Pauline Simpson said...

Thank you for introducing me to small quilts. I had always been intimidated by the small pieces before I discovered your fb page, now I am addicted! Lol paulinejmsimpson@hotmail.com

JanetD said...

Hand quilting is so enjoyable. I always feel a connection to the many quilters of days gone by when I hand quilt. I just wish there was time to do it on more of my projects. Thanks for the give away.

The Prairie Stitcher said...

I love hand quilting. There's something about it that is so relaxing and I love the way my little quilts look when finished. janrich35@gmail.com

picketsews said...

Truly enjoy hand quilting. I don't do alot of it because of time. A bucket list project for me is to hand quilt a bedside quilt. Thanks for the give away!!!!. Enjoying the posts that you write. Klassickeepsakes@hotmail

Jackie said...

These stencils would be great! I hand quilt my minis. Lately, I've just been winging it. No stencils, no tape. Kinda scary at first, but oh what fun!

halejm@outlook.com

Joanne said...

Love little quilts! Would like to try using stencils to hand quilting them instead of machine quilting. Thank you for the chance to try it out!
greetings from Maine
joannest@myfairpoint.net

Kathleen C said...

I love han quilting ... Thank you for your encouraging words for many of us. The shops that I go to don't carry stencils so your lovely giveaway is just right for me! I make small wall quilts and lap quilts. The lap quilts often include more than one narrow border and I'm often in need of a stencil for them.
Thanks, Kathleen at villagequilteratgmaildotcom.

Anonymous said...

Your little quilts are wonderful, and I love the printed fabrics you use! Thank you for your tips and inspiration to try hand quilting. adokinder@aol.com

Clare said...

I enjoy hand quilting but like you don`t fuss if not perfect just love the effect this gives my quilts. I`d love a set of smaller templates to finish the smaller projects. Happy Stitching.

Dear Faye said...

I am at a point in my quilt journey where these tools would be a welcome addition to my tool box. Jkestevens@aol.com

rj0929 said...

Thank you and the Stencil Company for the opportunity to win some stencils. I enjoy making small quilts and hand stitching them. Actually the more not perfect they are I think they not only look more antique but they have that whims that a young girl did it. Often the best antique doll quilts were made by young girls learning to sew.
Mrebec4@hotmail.com

Gail said...

I am working on a Grandmother's Flower Garden (hand piecing all of it!) and will be hand-quilting it. I also have a landscape quilt I want to hand quilt to emphasize the lines. Hope to win the stencils! Gail Ryan
gailryan9113@yahoo.com

QuiltGranma said...

It would be so wonderful to win this set of quilt stencils! I've made many little quilts in the past, and usually there has been a question on who to quilt the little darlings. Thank you and the company for this opportunity.

Pauline said...

Your hand quilting is so beautiful. I love to hand quilt myself and would like to try using stencils. I usually outline, or echo, or straight line hand quilt using tape to guide me. Thank you for a chance to win these lovely stencils.
Pauline
perry94022 at hotmail dot com
preferred contact

Sheila said...

Your quilting looks beautiful. I'm a new quilter and I'm trying to hand quilt a small wall hanging that I made. Right now I'm finding it a bit challenging and not at all like your comment in your post. I find my stitches are not the same, but I will get thru it. Would love a chance at your giveaway. Thank you.
sheilarbales@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I love small quilts. I always struggle with what to quilt in the borders. Stencils are a great idea. Thanks for the encouragement to hand quilt. I need to not let imperfect stitches be a road block for me.
Patty
Pattyerway@hotmail.com

Barb Whitehead. Email is Barb.whitehead@roadrunner.com said...

Hi, Kathy. I love my small quilts and like to hand quilt when I have time. My stitches aren't but as you said non of the antique doll quilts were. I strive to get better but have to constantly remind me of that. I would love to win these stencils! Barb

lisa0116 said...

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your article. I love hand quilting and have only done it on two different quilts. I want to do more and more of it. I am not all that crazy about a lot of the machine quilting of late. Your hand quilting is beautiful as are the quilts themselves! Thank you!

Granny's Button Box said...

Your quilts are delightful, you are so clever putting the colours together. You have inspired me to make small quilts, they are addictive. The stencils are great, fingers crossed. Thank you. Sharon x

Lise said...

I an new to handquilting, but I really loves it.

Anonymous said...

I have quilted for over 42 years and do some machine quilting but for the most part I have always preferred hand quilting. It is such a relaxing end to making the quilt and I love the whole process. I just finished hand quilting a Straight Furrows Log Cabin for my last grandchild. It's just a personal message for each grandchild to have a special hand quilted quilt to be remembered by.
My plans for the future is to make small quilts from all the Miniature Quilts magazines I have kept and stored for years. I can still enjoy the process but have something smaller that can be stacked and kept in a house full of quilts already. Diann Smith kyquiltymama@hotmail.com

Lee Anne said...

I love your quilts and your "beautiful" hand quilting; I agree that hand quilting even in small doses adds greatly to the aesthetic of a quilt. Thank you for your blog entries...I'm sure it is time consuming for your but much appreciated by us who read your blog regularly. Would love to try using the stencils as so far I've only done straight stitch hand quilting.

Janet Guru said...

I would love to win your stencils! I hope to improve my hand quilting on small quilts. I have always hand quilted large quilts and have a large hoop for that. I tried my first small quilt when I participated in your small quilt swap. My hand quilting does not look that great on the small quilt that I made because I was used to the tension on the quilt surface in a hoop. Quilting hoopless is a whole different thing, at least to me. I hope I can get some tips on quilting a small quilt at your retreat that I am signed up for. Like you mentioned I love doing handwork as it is so relaxing and I enjoy making just about all my quilts with the English paper piecing method.

Deborah said...

Thanks for a give away. They're always fun hoping you will win.
Russhill@beecreek.net

Anonymous said...

Just hoping to find the time to do some actual hand quilting. Williams@crocker.com

Chris K. said...

I like stencils, and my LQS doesn't carry them. Marking is frustrating, though. Seems like I always need an incompatible pair of marking tools to be able to see the marking on all the colors.

Jude Hodupp said...

I have all of your beautiful books. The little quilting group I belong to chose your Friendship Star quilt from the Prairie Children book to make so we can learn hand quilting. Mine will be all reproduction Civil War fabrics. We are just starting to make the blocks and are so excited about learning hand quilting. Thank you for inspiring us! mendonprairie02@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I have a few small quilt tops begging me to hand quilt them. Apprehensive is the word! Especially like the leaf stencil. Appreciate the chance to win some. Sharon
gritsgirlsc@sbcglobal.net

Frog Quilter said...

I will definitely check out the stencil company. Thanks for the opportunity for the give away. frog2quilt@gmail.com

Donna Keating said...

I am a big stitch quilter and new stencils would be so fun. Sewandsew011@gmail.com

Joyce Carter said...

I love your little quilts and your quilting is beautiful. I really like to hand quilt too. It is very relaxing and I love how it looks when you finish. I don't especially like the quilts that are quilted on a machine with all the fancy designs. I think it takes away from the way the quilt looks and you totally lose the design of your quilt. Why put in all that work on a top if all you see is the quilting?
Thank you so much for the giveaway.

jane nj/wi said...

Laura. You need to post again with your email address if you want to have a chance to win a stencil

belarmina said...

Gracias por la oportunidad de participas
madrinaban@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I've looked at "The Stencil Company" website many times and have considered ordering stencils, but haven't done it. I'd love to give hand quilting a try and winning a set of stencils would be a great way to get going! carters@cet.com

Unknown said...

I have done very little hand quilting and never with a stencil. I would love the opportunity to try! Thanks for the chance!
drbutler03@gmail.com

Carm said...

Thanks for a chance to win the stencils I love to hand quilt. Love your little quilts!!! haircarm@live.com

Lois McCoy said...

I love making your small quilts ........ and would love the stencils! Enjoy hand quilting....... so much more relaxing! Thanks for all your inspiration, Kathleen!

Lois McCoy
loishmccoy@gmail.com

jane nj/wi said...

This is a plot!!! Post another amazing blog that educates and teams up with a standup quilting supply company. The Stencil Company has been around a long time. They keep adding small stencils if you watch.

I am enamored with Wavy one. I would share it with my Maine Moose & Bear doppelgänger. She has a rather stern quilt lady Dolly who would insist.


Nice post Furless Leader.


Harleyetta@aol.com.


I am disappointed how many have left off contact info as Kathy had requested. You can't win if you give no contact info.

Melody said...

Wow, what an opportunity, because I really need some small stencils to help finish some small quilts Thank you Kathy and the Stencil company.
Cheers,
Melody

melody4750@yahoo.com

pkquilter said...

I love this post because you have shown details of how you've quilted your little quilts. I have a small stack ready to be hand quilted for Christmas gifts. But I'm just learning so I'm practicing on a mantle runner. Thanks to you and The Stencil Company for this give-away! paulinefisher@verizon.net

Kathy S. said...

I started working on things by hand in my sewing to go bag last year. I'm a substitute teacher and have at least an hour each day that I work to stitch (part of my lunch is included in this.) I'm starting to hand quilt minis! Love those wavy lines. Thanks for the hand stitching hints and all the pics.
Shahann@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Love machine quilting Charity Baby Quilts and stencils might be just the thing I could use! Straight line stitching is fine, but stencils would really add a neat touch! Thanks for your Blog, Inspiration and sweet giveaway! msstitcher1214@gmail.com

scottylover said...

I love hand quilting and using stencils! I have a queen size quilt that I have been hand quilting on for a couple of years now. I can only work on it during the winter because it is in a hoop and it's too hot to do at any other time. I am finally to the borders, so maybe I will get it done this winter!

Sandy A in St. Louis
scotty4me39 (t) yahoo:dot:com

Mommy Robin said...

Kathy, I think your quilting looks wonderful! It really adds a lovely touch to your little quilts. I've just retired and am looking forward to having time to quilt (piece, really) and work on hand quilting. I took a class from Sharon Stroud a couple of years ago, but just have not had time to devote to practicing it. Quilting small quilts is so much more achievable!

Thank you to the Stencil Co. for providing the stencils for your giveaway - and to you for all of the inspiration you give us!

Robin
rharvey619@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

I too love doing small quilts. Thanks for sharing your wonderful blog it really does inspire me to get busy making more little quilts. It is really nice of the stencil company to do this. Linda Sprouse
ls1943@prodigy.net

Unknown said...

I have a lot of minis that need to be quilted. I would love to win the stencils.

Ann in PA said...

This is a great blog post; I love hand quilting your little quilt patterns! The Stencil Company is my favorite source for quilting stencils ~ great selection and wonderful customer service. I must pass on the nice giveaway since I already have all the stencils in your photos. LOL Good luck to the others!

Ann Humpherys said...

I love the quilting in your small quilts. I'm very glad you are suggesting stencils to use in small quilts. I've looked on Stencil Company's website and wondered which ones are the best to use I love hand quilting maybug50@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I'd love to try using these stencils on my small quilts. Thanks for the giveaway. Even though I'm behind and the last clue has been posted I still wanto make the mystery quoly. Love it! Leadfoot_52@hotmail.com

quiltgrannie said...

Kathy, you are the one that inspired me to start hand quilting, and I love using these stencils. Thanks for the chance to win some.

Lynn S said...

I love, love hand quilting! Hand quilting little quilts just makes then extra wonderful! I like to use my little quilts as table toppers or wall hangings. The stencils you show are perfect for small quilts---and YLI thread is the best too!

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the tip on tiger tape Kathy. I need to improve on my hand stitching. Liz L. elawless28@gmail.com

Joyful Quilter said...

I've always thought I'd like to hand quilt as I love cross stitch and embroidery...but I've never tried it.

Tonya said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Tonya said...

I love the wavy line stencil, perfect for those smaller quilts. I love to hand quilt when I have down time!
takr26@hotmail.com

Renée Welton said...

Great tips Kathy! I haven't done much hand quilting and I am very critical of my stitches. I have a hard time keeping them even. I'm sure I need more practice. rcwliberty@gmail.com
Renee in MI

Material Girl said...

I really like that wavy line stencil. I big stitched a large quilt but haven't handquilted any of my small ones. I COULD but I kind of don't know how to start. Guess I should just jump omboard and try it. I think the quilting is so much harder than the piecing.....

mangozz said...

I love hand quilting but stick to small quilts.

Penny said...

My first attempt at small quilts was the February quilt. It was also my first attempt at hand quilting, just the corner hearts. They came out a little wobbly, but I didn't let that stop me. Thanks for the pep talk.

Karen said...

This is so timely. I am learning hand quilting and it is
A struggle! Maybe having stencils to will help remove my anxiety! Ha!

Connie said...

Thank you for the chance to win the little stencils. I am new to your blog today.

Connie Martin

SheriR said...

I have been having such fun making your small quilts this year AND your mystery quilt. I've probably hand quilted half of them. My stitches are BIG. I may need to try that tiger tape! angel22luna@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I love hand quilting. It so puts me in the zone and relaxes me. Years ago, I always worried that it wasn't perfect or small enough but now I just take it a stitch at a time. My family can always tell when I haven't hand quilted for a week or so--I get a little short with them and they remind me that it's time to get another quilt in the hoop.

Debbie S. quiltmaker916@gmail.com

tpott said...

I've been collecting all that's needed to start hand quilting. This last year has been overwhelmingly busy with so many things out of my control. My son will start college on the 28th. Possibly after that I'll be able to relax and learn to hand quilt. I've heard, once you get into a rhythm it's very calming. I could really use some calm in my life, soon. With what I've collected this last year, I never thought of stencils. I enjoy your blog, I love traditional quilts and quilting. Thanks for encouraging us newbies! ;-> Toni Anne tpott@optonline.net

the girlfriend gap said...

Hand quilting will always have my heart. Thank you for a chance to win. Janita
nannyjsewsweet@gmail.com

Karen in Breezy Point said...

Those stencils are pretty cute! I don't do much hand quilting, because I'm not too good at doing it. I love the look and feel of it though--especially on the little quilts! kdm1050atgmaildotcom

Handquilter said...

I am a big fan of hand quilting, it might take longer but it makes a quilt feel like a quilt. There is nothing more peaceful and relaxing than having a quilt on your lap and hand-quilting it. Kind regards,
Rowena Turton, Queensland, Australia
rowenaturton@hotmail.com

jrquilts said...

SO GLAD TO SEE HAND QUILTING ENCOURAGED BYYOU AND OTHER QUILTERS BEFORE IT BECOMES A LOST ART.
hjroger@sympatico.ca

purplehaze said...

I would like to hand quilt the Mystery Quilt we just finished. It will be my first attempt at hand quilting. The stencils would help. Thanks for the give away, your expertise and your encouragement. Jkrehel@yahoo.com
Jan Mishin
Soldotna. Alaska

Anonymous said...

I have done some hand quilting but never used stencils. I'd love to try the little stencils.
nikilsend(at)outlook(dot)com

Annemiek said...

Annemiek said: i only bought one of your books recently to start making a doll quilt. It is fun making this. It seems like a small project but it needs it care and attention. All is done by hand. The book i work out is Remembering Adelia. I like the history items as well. I live in Holland so whenever i read about the CW was in novels and films like gone with the wind. But this info gives you another info. Very good. Besides the doll quilt i fell in love with the Peonie Star quilt. So you got me hooked in the CW period. Keeps me busy. Thanks for all your nice ideas and your complete instructions and other info. Kind regards Annemiek Soer. amjsoer@gmail.com

Kleine Vingers said...

I just love hand quilting and I'm not perfect but I like it and it gives a lovely finish to a quilt. I use stencils all the time. Love your little quilts. aubphg (at) hotmail (dot) com

Liz B. said...

I love seeing pictures of your little quilts, they are so inspiring. Thank you for the chance to win stencils. It is great to know you have another book in the pipeline too - I will look forward to it.
liz.buxton@btinternet.com

Heather said...

I enjoy hand quilting, but often longarm simply for speed. I am currently in the process of hand quilting a primitive wool applique on cotton wall hanging. I find it difficult to decide how to quilt these types of projects.

Created by Kathi said...

I love your blog... and I love to hand quilt my vintage machine sewn flimsies too... small ones are fun and a quick way to show some accomplishments... I loved in this post how you used the wavy lines for a border template.. I use both blue wash away marker and pounce pad chalk powder for marking my stencils. Thanks for the chance!!! kathibc@yahoo.com Kathi

mdghall said...

I haven't done much hand quilting but love those stencils. I made my own for the quilt I have been quilting, but that is not something I will do again. I've been using the Bohin chalk markers.

Anonymous said...

I enjoy hand quilting on small projects. It is very relaxing.
Would love to win your stencils. Thank you.
Darlis Johns
darlisj@centurylink.net

Marsha said...

I have always loved hand quilting, thanks for a chance to win. mtelian@hotmail.com

Lynette said...

Hand quilting is so therapeutic! Plus, you can take it with you wherever you go! Thanks Kathy for all your wonderful patterns!! ctryathrt@aol.com

Barbara Black said...

I love hand quilting and these small projects are great for it. Thanks for the chance.

Nyla said...

What a fun giveaway and comprehensive post! I am currently hand quilting my version of your Honeybee quilt from your book Small & Scrappy. My sister and I are both making one as a mystery and will reveal when we both have ours complete. I would love to have some small quilting stencils and look forward to your new book too! nyla@valornet.com

Unknown said...

Love you books & I would love small stencils. Looking forward to your new book.
kniwit@gmail.com

Yvonne said...

Love to hand quilt! Thanks for the opportunity to enter! My email is on my blog on the right side below.
http://stitchinbitch-yvonne.blogspot.com
Good luck to all who enter!

Vickie said...

I love, love, love the look of handquilted and would like to start hand quilting some of my minis. I think minis are the perfect size to test of the water of hand quilting. Thanks for the chance to win some stencils. This is Vickie in WY victimlewis@hotmail.com

Lee Prairie Designs said...

Hi Elizabeth, I adore making small quilts and have all your quilting books. Hand quilting is at the top!!! Thank you for sharing your creatively and ideas with all of us and the opportunity to win your stencils. Carolyn

Lee Prairie Designs said...

Boy did I goof with addressing you as Elizabeth!!! So sorry But hope I gave you a morning laugh!!
Carolyn

Joni said...

I have enjoyed hand quilting since my grandmother taught me when I was 18. I grew up with her always having a quilting frame set up somewhere in their home. I used to watch her mark her quilts with a regular pencil and stencils she made herself. I make mostly small quilts and wallhangings and love handquilting, except for ones that will get lots of use, those I machine quilt on my regular sewing machine. Thank you, Joni bbtb4004@hotmail.com

quilterknitter said...

I still love hand quilting especially on small quilts UNLESS I have to do something in a hurry. Machine quilting just isn't as satisfying to me.I don't think I will ever trust Frixion pens, though. Enjoy your posts, Kathy. Regards, Sue

quilterknitter@comcast.net

debbiesc1 said...

I am just discovering small quilts, working on my 4 th one, all your designs by the way. One of the reasons I love them is because I can hand quilt and it is not such a large project. Thank you for the giveaway, I would love to try a stencil.
Debbie

Patti L. said...

Love the look of these stencils and would love to give them a try! Thank you for all you creations and quilting guidance! plautumn@yahoo.com

GCamden said...

I have been hand quilting since about 1975 and love it. It is so relaxing and I love the soft effect it gives the quilt. I have just learned in the last year to machine quilt and it has been fun on small quilts but hand quilting is still my favorite.

Chris Jensen said...

I am a new quilter and I would love to learn hand quilting. Maybe a small quilt like these would help me to learn. Thank you for your blog. I enjoy it so much and love your quilts. I do have one question. What kind of frame do you use to quilt on or do you use hoops? I might have missed that in the blog but could you tell me what to use for small quilts.

Again thank you for your help and inspiration.

Chris Jensen christine.jensen@usu.edu

Unknown said...

Love your little quilts. I only just started making these little quilts and I still find that next to choosing the fabric is the biggest challenge is how do I want to quilt this? How best will my stitches flow with these tiny blocks ? Thank you for this winning opportunity !

Charlotte said...


I love the look and feel of hand quilting and I have done several small quilts. I need to do more so I will become more proficient but in the meantime quirky is good.

Thanks for your encouraging post.

Charlotte
kurtschindler111@gmail.com

Diane H said...

It has been a long time since I've done any hand quilting. Thank you for the great tips on marking pens. It would be fun to give these little stencils a try. laura84watt(at)gmail(dot)com

Karen said...

Hand quilting small quilts is so much fun! Thanks for the chance to win the stencils! I love reading your blog.
kjjell3@gmail.com

dlockwood said...

I love small quilts and hand quilting them. I am looking forward to your new book. Donna, NC
Dlockwood@atmc.net

Grace Lombardo said...

You are so right about hand quilting being meditative.

Thanks for the great post!

Grace
gracebardo@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I can't hand quilt my larger quilts any more (darn computer!), but I can still enjoy hand quilting the small quilts. I love the inspiration from your smallquilt group and facebook page!

Sarah said...

Great article to encourage us hand quilters. Yes, I still handquilt-even bed quilts. Almost have a Dear Jane quilted. I love the wavy lines stencil, may have to order that one.

diane s said...

I love small quilts and have been attempting to hand quilt a lot of them. Love the hand quilting on your quilts Kathy, it has given me a lot of inspiration to try hand quilting and love all of your tips!

Brigitte C said...

Whaouuu .. que de merveilles , les mini Quilts sont de toutes beautés. Je suis sous le charmes des stencils que je ne trouve pas en France, tres dommage.
Je suis une fan du blog, de FB et Instagram .
Amitiés

Cindy in Kansas said...

Dang it, Kathleen, every time you bring up The Stencil Company I log on and buy more stencils. I hang them on Command hook on my wall. I have a great collection. I never actually USE them, but I collect them anyway.

Rosemary said...

I love all quilts but I truly love making small quilts. They are special, adorable, small! ;) Done quickly (usually) and have time to sit and hand-quilt. Love embroidery and handwork even though my hands are rebelling these days. I really love the stencils and would love to try using them. Always afraid the lines won't wash out. Will try your methods. Thank you, as usual, for sharing your incredible talent.

Carolyn in Texas said...

Have really enjoyed my Stencil Company purchases, especially the 3 curves. I have started several small pieces that I have been hand quilting. Arthritic fingers make it hard though. Would love to win those stencils though.

beckykohn said...

Love little quilts and always have trouble deciding quilting designs. These quilting stencils would be great for that!

Carolknits said...

Would love to get back into hand quilting and these would do the trick!
carolannbejtlich@verizon.net

Susan M said...

I just love the feel of quilts that are hand quilted! They are so soft. I have only recently tried the YLI hand quilting thread and it was a game changer for me. My favourite marking tool for straight lines is a Hera marker that makes a crease to follow. Please keep encouraging your followers to give hand quilting a try. Even big stitches are beautiful!

susan hemann said...

I love to quilt by hand. Very nice giveaway, thank you
suehemann@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I love hand quilting and don't do it as much as I should. I would love to win your giveaway. I would be so excited I would quilt my next little project! :-) You inspire me!!!!! spnquilt2@gmail.com

Debby said...

I love the look of hand quilting and actually enjoy doing it. Now if I wasn't always in such a rush to get things done. It does take time to hand quilt and I have a daughter-in-law who's a long-armer. I should get back to hand quilting when I do a miniature. Those stencils would come in very handy. Thanks for the chance to win.
debbyborns@yahoo.com

Judy said...

When I made my first quilt, I thought I should hand quilt it. Since it was a twin size, the task was soon daunting. I have threads and needles, needle puller, hoop, and thimbles. Hand quilting a small quilt would be fun, and stencils would help me a lot. My grandmother hand quilted several beautiful
quilts, and I'd like to give it another try.

golfingofcourse@gmail.com

Angelia Lanouette said...

I love your small quilts! Hand work is very relaxing for me and I enjoy hand applique, EPP, and embroidery. I always hand sew my bindings but haven't tried hand quilting yet. :( Thank you for the encouraging post and permission to not worry about perfection...I would definitely get more done if I didn't!

These are beautiful! said...

Can't wait for another of your books! Love the pictures!

Unknown said...

I love to hand quilt and applique. On minis it looks so much better.

Unknown said...

I love to hand quilt and applique. On minis it looks so much better.

Unknown said...

I love to hand quilt and applique. On minis it looks so much better.

Colleen said...

I never win anything but I wanted to comment on your post today. I've been quilting for a long time and making small quilts is so satisfying for me. I love all your patterns and have your books. Hand quilting has never been a priority for me when I make small quilts but I love to embroider and applique and cross stitch, so why haven't I hand quilted my smalls???...I think I'm in such a hurry to get it done and go to the next one that I don't think about it. You've made me see that hand quilting is much prettier and more to the original way they were done than machine quilting :) My next smalls will hand quilted...thank you!!!


ckbaker46@yahoo.com

LynnJ in Wis said...

Love your quilts! This is an excellent article on hand quilting. You have inspired me and based on your use, I picked up some of the YLI thread in your color to give this a try a little while ago. So this article is another push.
I have a fear of marking my fabric but I will try the washouts. Sewline pencil caused me a problem once and I've backed away from marking quilts.. Now having the stencils would be superb.

Donna~~ said...

Your quilts are all so lovely. A mini would be doable for hand quilting--thanks for reminding me I can do it!

Teapot820 said...

Hand quilting is very relaxing. The trick is to keep it simple.

Anonymous said...

Kathy, thanks sew much for the chance to win. I love to hand quilt. Actually I love all hand stitching. For me it is my time of complete relaxation.

Chris Gibbons gibbyc57@yahoo.com

Sue McQ said...

Hi Kathy
So good of you and the Stencil Co to generously offer these quilting aids. More and more I am embracing the imperfectly perfect mantra! Blessings!
susan.mcquade11@yahoo.com

GabiP said...

Thank you for this opportunity, Kathy. You are the one who got me to hand quilt my first small, quilt...and it was one of your patterns! I really move the small quilts because you get to be creative and see your work in record time.

I love your quilts, I have all your books, and I do look forward to your next book coming out next year. Keep on doing what you do, Kathy...I am a fan.
gkpettit24@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I think your hand quilting is just perfect! I learned to hand quilt from my Mother who loved it and did most of her quilts by hand. After she died, I have not hand quilted a thing. We did it together on a frame, so it just seems lonely now somehow. Would love to get some stencils to get back into it. She always had it marked, so I never had to do that part. Thank you for the opportunity. Janine Baker

Martine said...

I love handquilting and your small quilts. Great plea to convince people to give it a try , very relaxing in this nervous world.
Look forward to your next book !.
martinepoelman@yahoo.co.uk

Judy Knorr said...

I love to hand quilt. I find it is so relaxing. I have found that the more hand quilting I do the smaller and more even my stitches become.
Jknorr@optonline.net

Anonymous said...

I have been very nervous about trying my hand at hand quilting, but this summer I started a small whole cloth quilt top. I'm not very good, but starting out small has helped me a lot. I love small quilts.
christine underscore prager at yahoo dot com.

Anonymous said...

Hi Kathleen! Love this post!! To me, there is only one way to quilt and that is by hand! There is no beauty to machine quilting and it looks like all other commercial quilts. Let's preserve the art of hand quilting! Barbara S. in Parrish, FL bstillma@yahoo.com

Kathy H said...

I have wanted to try some hand quilting. And a small quilt would probably be the best idea. Thanks for your tips on quilting with stencils.

sandi s said...

Hi Kathy, I really enjoy hand quilting! I won't win any prizes either but it suits me. I loved seeing all your pictures. I have your new book and look forward to your next one. Hugs, Sandi

Anonymous said...

I have just recently decided to dip my hand into hand quilting my mini quilts and am so enjoying the process. Yes, I need a lot more practice for straight lines and consistent spacing, but am hoping with time and practice it will happen.
Jane @ edwardarthur29@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I really enjoy hand quilting my small quilts. Your books give me a lot of inspiration. And I have loved doing the latest quilts from your book. And working on the mystery quilt.
Pismolady@msn.com

Anonymous said...

Oh boy, I'm sooo excited about the stencils in the drawing! I recognize them from the quilts in your various books. When a quilt is handquilted, the quilt is even more special. There's always a bit of love in every stitch!
Thank you Kathy, for this drawing, WOW!

Jan D. from CA dunndeal3@yahoo.com

Maureen said...

I have just started to hand quilt, and I find it very satisfying. I would really love to win some stencils, thank you for the opportunity.

Anonymous said...

I am predominately a hand quilter, but do not have any small stencils. Thanks so much for the opportunity to win some!!
Sandra B
scb304@juno.com

stitching in apple country said...

Just starting to try hand quilting on my small quilts. Stencils would be a big help! Thanks! Peggy Voorhees
peggyv253@aol.com

Deb said...

I love to hand quilt and find it harder to find the stencils

Ellie said...

Thanks for the generous give away!
Elively@indy.rr.com

Rina Mason said...

I haven't hand quilted in some time but have a wall quilt ready to give it a go. Thanks for the chance at the wonderful stencils.

Judy M said...

I love small Quilts! They are so much fun to make. I would love to hand quilt my next one and the templates you are giving away would be so helpful. Thanks for offering them to us.

Jassinc6 said...

Hi Kathleen:
Would love to try some of these stencils. I just starting small quilts a year ago and I've bought almost all of your books which I am working through. My goal has been to do at least one a month and so far I have kept with it. My sticky issue is hand quilting designs. I've been free handing them and of course the stitching isn't as straight as it could be with the help of some nice stencils. My contact is jassinc6@aol.com.

Tina W. In Oregon said...

Hand quilting would be my preference for everything if I had the time. With small quilts, it can be accomplished though so I would love to win some templates to help in the process! Thanks for the opportunity!

Joy Belle said...

I love hand quilting any size project. I am the same as you when it comes to hand work - quilting or sequinning - it takes a bit to get back into the rhythm and even up the spacing. Blessings, Joy (gladnessgaia@yahoo.com.au)

Anonymous said...

Your quilts are lovely, as always. I don't do too many small quilts now, but hope to in the future. I sure have the scraps for it! Louise
cgkings@centurytel.net

Debbie said...


What a great blog. I have been promoting hand quilting for years using your philosophy. It doesn't have to be perfect!! just enjoy quilting your quilt and try your best. Your stitching gets better the more you do it. Every time I pick up a piece to work on I feel I am quilting for the first time. But, by the end of the project my stitches are so much better than they were at the start. It's always such a pleasant surprise.
fetchr@aol.com

Betty Lou said...

You do beautiful hand quilting. My longtime quilting friend always said "it's not a quilt until it"s quilted " and when she said quilted she ment hand quilted. She taught me to hand quilt in the 90's, inspired to get back to it. So happy to hear your working on another quilt. Thank you for sharing.

Unknown said...

I really enjoy hand quilting but haven't done very much and mostly it's just been straight lines. I'd love to try a stencil. Last winter I took a small quilt to quilt during those times we were dry camping. By the time we got home, I was done! Thanks for all the wonderful inspiration.
nkennedy@bendbroadband.com

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