Piecing for a Bit and a Giveaway

Yesterday I got all the stitching done with the metallic thread to outline all of the branches of the wishing tree and was ready to start the leaves. I went through all of the green threads in my possession and didn't have exactly what I wanted -- hard to believe when one considers how much thread I own!

I knew I wanted to use 40 weight polyester embroidery thread for the sheen and decided on two variegated colors, Field Greens and Mossy Greens, made by Mettler and marketed under either the PolySheen or Isacord brand depending on the size of the spool (Isacord comes on cones, PolySheen on smaller spools). I don't have an assortment of the variegated colors, so called up my LQS, Bolts in the Bathtub, and they were out of stock (big groan inserted here!). I understand why -- they have many embroidery customers and leaves are a popular theme -- but really? Today? Good thing this project isn't due immediately!

So I emailed Michelle at Amann-Mettler Group and crossed my fingers that they were in stock at the warehouse. Mettler is extremely generous in supplying me with threads, but when I just need a couple of spools, I always check with Bolts first. It's always a good excuse to run in and see what new fabrics they have!

So since I'm stuck for the moment, I picked up the pattern and cute fat eighths pack from the May Sew Sampler box that I did a post on last month.

The pattern calls for 1-1/3 yards each of three low volume fabrics. Wasn't 100% sure what "low volume" meant as it's a term I've been hearing only recently, but I told Dawna that I needed three low volume fabrics, she flipped three bolts onto the cutting table and that worked for me. I also don't understand 1-1/3 yards so bought two yards of each and toddled off. Actual use has been about one yard of each, but I chose to make my flying geese with the no waste method rather than with the included ruler.

Sewed a test group of four and I don't think accuracy is a question here, so think I'll just keep making them the usual way.

So there's my stack of them half done and ready for the iron.

Meanwhile a perfectly good ruler sits on my table dreaming of geese in the air and pining for a good home where it will be loved and used. Want it? Leave a comment about a favorite flying geese quilt that you have either made or would like to -- we'll do a drawing at the end of the month.

Good luck!