sewandsewsmom

Friday Feature - Glow in the Dark Thread!

2012-01-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

Have you seen our Notions section lately? We have so many things on sale right now!

One of our notions products that we think is super cool is the NiteLite ExtraGlow Thread. This thread is iron and dryer safe, you get 80 yards of it, it glows up to six hours, and it's on sale right now!!

We have four colors for you to choose from! White, pink, yellow, and blue.

So make your way over to order yours today and don't forget to check out all the great notions we've got on sale at http://www.atbquilts.com/!

Friday Feature - Satchel for Two Pattern

2012-01-20T09:45:00.000-08:00

This pattern we've got for you in this week's feature is one you're sure to love. It's a casual, really cute soft-bodied bag that is reversible. It has an inside and outside pocket, and is great to use for your grab-and-go kind of bag or purse!

Did we mention it's easy to make? And on sale right now? Take a look!

In fact, this isn't the only one on sale right now. Head over to http://www.atbquilts.com/ and take a look at all our tote bag and purse patterns!

Friday Feature - Little Critters Quilt Kit

2012-01-13T08:53:00.000-08:00

This week we're featuring a kit for an adorable baby quilt full of bright colors and fun little friends! It finishes at 45-1/2" x 41-1/2 and is oh so cute!

This very fun (and easy) quilt has 25 - 7" blocks. The kit contains all of the 100% Cotton fabrics and the pattern all neatly organized in a reusable hinged project box! You can find it here. It's also available in twin size!

We also sell the fabric separately, in case you want to make any cute additions or use the coordinating fabric for the backing. You can find the Little Critters line here.

Friday Feature - Candy Hearts Quilt Pattern

2012-01-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to you all!

We hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are ready to make the most of 2012.

This week we're featuring a quilt pattern called Candy Hearts. It is made using charm squares and is beautiful and heart-warming!

Click here for more details and to order this adorable pattern. You can also visit the precuts section of www.atbquilts.com to browse through the charm packs we have available (might as well get everything in one place, right?).

HAPPY NEW YEAR! LAST DAY!!

2011-12-31T13:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

It's not too late to get in on our blowout sale! Everything in the store is 10%-75% off!

In addition to that, you'll get 10% off your purchase if you enter the coupon code GR8DEALS at checkout.

Today is the last day for this insane sale, head on over to www.atbquilts.com for more details and to get started now!!

Friday Feature - BLOWOUT SALE!!

2011-12-23T12:40:00.000-08:00

Our feature this week is going to be the insane blowout sale we have coming up. You're really going to want to get in on this!!

f you have been to www.atbquilts.com lately, you've seen that we're going to have a blowout sale. From December 26-31, there will be hundreds of items marked down anywhere from 10%-75% off. You will also receive an extra 10% off your entire purchase at checkout - even off those items already discounted!

We're letting our blog readers in on a little secret. We're starting to mark things down early!! So far, we've already posted sale prices for all our Charm Packs, Fat 8th Bundles, Fat Quarter Bundles, Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, Panels, and almost all of our Flannels!!

So head on over today and get an early start on these great deals!!

Friday Feature - Freddie's Friends Patterns

2011-12-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

If you've been searching for a special gift to give to the little ones in your life, we think you might like these! They are patterns for Freddie's Friends, the sweet characters you can find on our Misc Patterns page.

We have Roscoe the Robot,

Olive the Owl,

Lee Lee the Lion,

and Bonnie the Butterfly.

A personalized gift like this will make anyone's holiday very special!

Are you getting ready for our Year-End Blowout Sale? To get a start, check out our Facebook page! Starting Monday, December 19th, we'll give you a little head start to see what we're marking down! You don't want to miss these deals!

Friday Feature - Tuxedo Fabric Collection

2011-12-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

We've got a new fabric collection in from Riley Blake and Doodlebug Designs called Tuxedo. It's classy and elegant and can be used in all kinds of projects!

We have two prints from the collection in laminate as well as 100% Cotton. There are 24 different prints included in the 10" Stackers, 5" Stackers, and Rolie Polies from the Tuxedo Line.

Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ or click here to order some today!

Don't forget about our Holiday Hop Specials. From December 10-15, all precuts and notions are 20% off! And keep an eye on our homepage for more details about the FabShop Year-End Online Blowout Sale! From December 26-31, everything in the store will be 10%-75% off!

Friday Feature - Cuddle Quilt Kits

2011-12-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

Happy December!

When this time of year rolls around, and you find something perfect for your wish list, there's no harm in dropping hints for those who will be looking for something to give you for the holidays. We're going to help you out here.

Step 1: Finding something perfect for your wish list. These cuddle quilt kits come already packaged and tied with a bow, including 17 strips of cuddle fabric and a free quilt pattern. They are soft, easy to sew, super cute, and we have them in three different combinations to choose from. And from December 3-9, they're available in our shop for 25% off.!

Step 2: Dropping the hint. You can click the like button at the bottom of this post, become a fan on our facebook page and like our news feed posts, pin one of these pictures to Pinterest, visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ and like these products directly (click on the picture to be directed straight to the product page)...just to name a few. Or, for a more direct approach, copy and paste the link below in an email!

http://www.aroundtheblockquiltersshop.com/shop/Around-the-Block-Kits/Quilts-Quilts-Quilts.htm

As we mentioned above, these and our Cuddle fabrics are 25% off December 3-9. Check out http://www.atbquilts.com/ for more of our Shop Hop sales!

Friday Feature - Magnetic Needle Nannies

2011-11-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

We hope you all had a marvelous Thanksgiving!

This week's feature can be found in our What's New section of http://www.atbquilts.com/. We think these Needle Nannies are the cutest little things! We have six to choose from!

Simply place your Needle Minder on the front of your needlework canvas or fabric, in a convenient location, and align the other magnet directly behind your Needle Nanny. Made with 2 super strong high quality rare earth magnets, our Needle Keepers are strong enough to hold your scissors as well. Our Needle Nannies are the perfect Needlecraft Tool for your project basket.

Don't forget to check out our website for our latest sales and great deals. For Saturday, November 26 only, we're offering 20% off your entire purchase if you enter the coupon code you can find on the homepage at http://www.atbquilts.com/! Also, from November 26-December 2, we're offering free shipping on orders over $40.00.

Check out these and more deals and discounts at our website!

Friday Feature - Fa La La Pillow Kit

2011-11-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, we know that Thanksgiving isn't even past yet, but this pillow kit is far too cute and must be featured.

Did you see that there are actually bells on the side? So fun! This project finishes at 18"x18" and you can choose to use it as a pillow or a wall hanging. Everything you need is included (bells and all)! To see more details and to order yours today, click here.

Friday Feature - Rice Bags Pattern

2011-11-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

We love things that warm us up on a chilly day. A hot bowl of soup or mug of hot chocolate, a warm snuggly quilt, and...a bag of rice?

It may sound strange, but these rice bags are the best thing to have by your side when the weather is cold. All you do is warm it up in the microwave and you can take it wherever you go for hours of extra warmth! The pattern can be found here.

Looking for a holiday project? Visit www.atbquilts.com and see the sales we have going on for all our Christmas kits!

Friday Feature - Pattern Playground

2011-11-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

This week's feature is a bit different than most. In case you haven't checked it out, we wanted to feature one of the newest sections of http://www.atbquilts.com/ called Pattern Playground.

Pattern Playground is a feature that allows you to design your own quilt pattern. You get to choose the colors, the size of the blocks and borders, and rotate the squares all with the click of your mouse. Once you're happy with what your finished product will look like, you can print out the pattern and start right away! There are literally over 1 million ways to do it.

Would you believe us if we told you that it's FREE?! Believe it! Click here to check it out and experience the possibilities.

Friday Feature - A Touch of Whimsey Quilt Book

2011-10-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Are you the type that likes to decorate for a special occasion with an adorable holiday themed pillow? Or do you like to make unique gifts to give away? Or do you like easy patterns that turn out great projects?

How about a book of patterns that does all those things?

We've got one! This is A Touch of Whimsey. It's got 12 different pillow patterns that are all super cute. There are lots of different patterns for holidays, special occasions, or everyday decorating. We think these are just darling.

Don't forget that October 29-31 we're offering free shipping for all US orders over $50! Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ to start shopping!

Friday Feature - Tidings Holly & Berry Table Runner Kit

2011-10-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

This week we have a festive Friday Feature. It's a kit for a beautiful table runner that is great to dress up any home for the holidays!

This is our Tidings Holly & Berry table runner kit. It comes with fabric for the top, the binding, and 9 beautiful red saucer buttons to create this lovely 12" x 72" finishing touch for your holiday decor. Isn't it pretty?

Don't forget! October 22-28, all our flannels are 30%-50% off, and October 29-31, you can get free shipping on all US orders over $50.

Keep up with our Shop Hop sales, all our new items and offers, and sign up for our newsletter at http://www.atbquilts.com/!

Friday Feature - Sewing Machine Cases

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

This week's feature is a little something from the sale section of our website.

We think these handy-dandy sewing machine cases are awesome. They not only store your machine and make it easier than ever to transport from place to place, but there is a ton of space in them to keep your extra notions, fabric scraps, patterns, or whatever you like to keep by your side! They are great for traveling, since they are light and can fit either under an airplane seat or in the overhead compartment.

We have them in two sizes, we have them in fun colors, and we have them on sale right now.

You can find out more information on each product page. Click here for the small size,

and click here for the medium size.

Also, the ShopHop sales are still going on! From October 15-21, we're offering 20%-50% off all Christmas quilt and project kits! Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ for more details and more upcoming ShopHop sales.

Tardy Tuesday - Dew Drop Kit and Pattern

2011-10-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

Our apologies for this post being a few days after Friday. We'll call it Tardy Tuesday and feature a product that's 25% off, that gives you the choice of a pattern or the quilt kit, and if you choose the kit, there are 10 adorable options that you can choose from to make it special.

This is what we call a Dew Drop. It's a 42" diameter quilt that serves one purpose after another for little ones. It's perfect for tummy time, diaper changing and more. You can take it out with you to lay down instead of a blanket or you can keep it on your floor to use as a play mat. These are great to make for your own kids and they make wonderful baby shower gifts!

We offer it as a pattern and a quilt kit, where the top, back, binding, and the rick rack are all included with the pattern. If you haven't seen all our options for the Dew Drop Quilt Kit, you have to check out this serious cuteness. Boy or girl, trucks or flowers, you can easily find something that will suit the little one you make it for with our ten choices. You can also make it into a flower shape as seen in the pattern above, or a simple circle.

And hurry on over! The Dew Drop pattern and quilt kits are all on sale!!

We hope you're as excited for the upcoming holidays as we are! We're showing our excitement with our awesome Shop Hop Specials. From now until October 14, we're offering 30% off Deb Strain's Trick or Treat fabric! Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ for more details and for a list of all our October Shop Hop sales.

Friday Feature - Ice Crystals Quilt Kit

2011-09-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

This week's feature is a quilt kit that we've got on sale. The pattern is called ice crystals and it is a beautiful quilt that we have available with the Adoring fabric line by Sandy Gervais.

We like this beautiful pattern that finishes as a 90x90 quilt, and hope you like it too!

If you haven't taken advantage of our sale of 25% all autumn fabrics, patterns, and kits, act now! Today is the last day! Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ for details.

Pin It

Friday Feature - Road Rage Pattern

2011-09-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, so if you haven't seen this quilt pattern yet, you'll soon find out why it is one of our favorites!

This is Road Rage. It's adorable at first glance, right? What's even cuter is that the white border can be used as a race car track, and then the stop sign serves as a place to park the cars.

Also, if you haven't visited http://www.atbquilts.com/ in the last few days, you may not have seen our flash sale...it's a sale we hold every now and then that begins with no notice and ends with no notice, so hurry to our website and see if it's still there!

We've still got some great Shop Hop specials going too. From September 24-30th, we're offering a 25% discount off the regular price of all autumn fabrics, patterns, and kits!

Friday Feature - Hometown Fabric

2011-09-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is a fabric collection called Hometown, designed by Sweetwater. We love all these colors together and that they are still deep enough to be good for fall. What do you think?

You can find it here.

Also, remember to check out our Shop Hop specials for September. From September 17-23rd, we'll send you a 1" x 4" ruler with every order! We'll always let you know about our sales and specials at www.atbquilts.com.

Friday Feature - Strip Smarts Quilt Kit

2011-09-09T19:46:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is a beautiful kit with lots of pretty fall colors that gives you lots of options!

This is called Hide and Seek and all the strips are already cut for you, and we will send it to you in a reusable project box!

What's really cool is that you have several options of how you can make this quilt. The one above is called Hide and Seek, but you can also make Brownies a la Mode or Fat Man's Squeeze. Check out this product page for pictures and details.

And we've still got some great Shop Hop deals going on. From September 10-16 we're offering free shipping on all US orders of $50.00 or more! All our other deals for September can be found by visiting http://www.atbquilts.com/.

Friday Feature - Zippy Strippy Bags

2011-09-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

First, we want to be sure that you all are aware of our GIVEAWAY going on for gift certificates! All you have to do is go to our notions page, find an item you like, and let us know how you would use it if you had it! Leave us a comment on our facebook wall to enter. Hurry, today is the last day!!

Next, we want to feature a pattern that is great for using your leftover strips, rick rack, buttons, and other extras you have lying around. You can piece them together to make these adorable zippy strippy pouches!

Keep checking out http://www.atbquilts.com/ for spotlight specials, sale announcements, to join our newsletter mailing list, and shop for anything you need!

GIVEAWAY!

2011-08-30T12:59:00.001-07:00

We've got a giveaway going on this week! Head over to our facebook page to check it out!

Friday Feature - Quilted Baby Shoes Patterns

2011-08-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

This week's feature is another favorite we can't get enough of.

You've seen lots of adorable baby quilt patterns and kits on our site, right? Have you seen the patterns we have to make baby shoes?

You can make baby loafers with this pattern (which is on sale right now)...

or you can make these cute little Mary Janes with this pattern (which also happens to be on sale right now)!

We just love what a unique and adorable gift these little shoes make. What do you think?

Also, don't forget to keep an eye on http://www.atbquilts.com/ for our Shop Hop Specials. From August 27-31 we're offering free shipping within the US on orders of $40 or more! And keep an eye on our facebook page, we may have a giveaway coming up soon!

Friday Feature - Doo Da Daisy Pattern

2011-08-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is a super cute pattern that we've got on sale. This is Doo Da Daisy.

There are instructions to make two versions of this cute quilt, and right now it's 30% off! Take a look!

Our customer appreciation sale is going on through August 19! Lots of great things are marked down at great prices...up to 75% off! Visit this link for all these offers and hurry! It's almost over!

We've always got Shop Hop Specials going on. Remember to visit www.atbquilts.com to see what we're offering you!

Friday Feature - Fabulous Festive Flowers

2011-08-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is great for projects of all kinds!

It's an idea book by Ammee's Babies about crocheting flowers. Flowers that can be made for jewelry, put on hats and other accessories, and used for sprucing up all kinds of things.

This one can be found here, but there are all sorts of other books full of ideas here.

Are you ready for the upcoming Shop Hop Special? From August 15-19, you can get 75% off select products as part of our Customer Appreciation Sale. Keep checking www.atbquilts.com for these great deals!

Friday Feature - Fresh Flowers Table Mat Kit

2011-08-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is a kit that gives you options. You can order the kit with everything you need to make the red table mat:

Or you can order the kit with everything you need to make the green table mat:

Whichever you choose, they are both very cute and can be found here.

And if you haven't visited www.atbquilts.com recently to see our Shop Hop specials for August, you should head on over to take a look. There are some seriously good deals, free stuff, great sales.

Like from August 6-14, you can get a free fat quarter with every order of $30 or more. There's good stuff like this going on all month this month, too!

Friday Feature - Frolic Fabric

2011-07-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Feature is a Fabulous Fabric Feature! Hope you're ready for this cuteness.

This is Frolic by Sandy Gervais. We tried to pick just a few pictures to show you, but we couldn't narrow it down. Sit back, relax, and enjoy as you scroll down and check out this cute fabric line. And if you could believe it, this isn't even everything. There are more here.

Friday Feature - Lapel Stick

2011-07-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

So have you ever been ready to walk out the door and you notice at the last minute that you have a loose hem? Or maybe you have a shirt that you wish you could wear more often but the collar lays weird?

We've got a new product available that's a quick fix to problems like this--it's called the Lapel Stick. It's like a glue stick for fabric. Genius, no? Even Pat Sloan is talking about it on her blog.

Check here on our website for more information, uses, links to tutorials and videos, and to order one of these must-haves for your quilting supplies.

Also, have you been keeping up with our Shop Hop Specials? Today, July 22nd, is the last day that Trick or Treat by Deb Strain is 30% off! Then from July 23-29, Punctuation by American Jane will be 30% off. It's perfect for back to school projects! Check out www.atbquilts.com for details.

Make Up Monday - Picture Perfect

2011-07-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late post...we've titled it Make Up Monday because we are a few days behind on our Friday Feature. But trust us, this pattern is worth the wait!

This is called Picture Perfect. It's a darling baby quilt pattern that goes together using charm squares. It's got dimensional flowers and rick rack as adorable accents too. Don't you love it?

Also, have you checked out our sale for this week? From now until July 22, Trick or Treat by Deb Strain is 30% off!

We hope you're all having a wonderful summer and are working on fun projects! Remember to keep us in mind for ideas, fabric, kits, notions, and more. Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ for ideas of how we can help you make your projects even more cute and fun!

Friday Feature - Paper Pieced Labels

2011-07-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

Anyone out there done paper piecing before? We love the tiny little details you can get by doing paper piecing projects.

Check out these patterns we have for paper piecing labels. We have SIX sets of six!!

LOVE these. Aren't they awesome? You can find them here.

And while you're over at http://www.atbquilts.com/, take a look at what's available for our upcoming Shop Hop Special from July 9-15. You can get an extra 20% off everything in our entire sale section of our online shop!

Friday Feature - Veranda Tote Kit

2011-07-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

We've got another favorite to share with you as part of this week's Friday Feature. This Veranda Tote Kit comes with the pattern and the fabric needed to complete the project.

We love the beautiful colors that go with this kit, so of course we're excited to include a little something more...with the purchase of this tote kit, you can get a matching key wristlet by Vivan Gardner (while supplies last)! Visit this link to see more pictures and to order yours today.

We hope you liked June's Shop Hop Specials. We're keeping the fun rolling throughout July too. From now until July 8th, Hemstitched Blankets by Ammee's Babies are 20% off. Visit http://www.atbquilts.com/ for more details on hemstitching and to see our sales we've got planned for the rest of July.

Friday Feature - All Things Bright and Beautiful Table Runner

2011-06-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

TGIF. We love Fridays.

In accordance with our love for Fridays, we're going to do an occasional Friday Feature. We'll share with you some of our new products, show you some old favorites, and highlight other things you don't want to miss.

This week's feature is a pattern for this All Things Bright and Beautiful table runner. We love the three dimensional flowers!

You can find this in our What's New section at http://www.atbquilts.com/ (which, by the way, has had some updating since we've been back from Market).

And don't forget about our June Shop Hop sales! June 25-30 is when our snuggly - wonderful cuddle quilt kits are 15% off!

June Shop Hop Sales

2011-06-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

First off, it's not too late to get in on our fat quarter bundle sale. We've put together bundles--buy four get one more--and marked them down 15%. We also let you in on a little secret to save more if you've visited our facebook page. Today is the last day, so don't miss this good stuff!

After that sale is over, there's still more! From June 18-24 all quilt charms, bracelets, and charm holders are on sale 10% off. Here's a look at a few of the many that we have available. You can see more at http://www.aroundtheblockquiltersshop.com/shop/notions/charms-and-bracelets.htm.

And our third sale this month is from June 25-30 where our snuggly wonderful cuddle quilt kits are 15% off.

We hope you enjoy these sales! If you have any feedback or suggestions of how we can help you or if you have requests for other sales you'd like to see, we always welcome comments on our blog, our facebook page, or send us an email at info@atbquilts.com.

Fat Quarter Bundle Sale!

2011-06-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

We love the month of June.

Some claim it's their favorite because school's out, the weather is warmer, and summer activities are in full swing.

We like those things too...

...but we love it for great sales.

Great sales like the three we have coming up as our June Shop Hop specials. Next week it begins with all of our fat quarter bundles on sale 15% off from June 11-17, and it doesn't stop there. Take a look at http://www.atbquilts.com/ for more dates, deals and details.

Also, keep an eye on our facebook page for even more savings...we just might sneak in a few hints of how to save a little extra. :)

Last weekend we hosted a booth and presented a demo at the Hearts 'n' Hands Quilt Guild's Bi-Annual Quilt Show. Here are a few pictures from our fun Saturday!

Spring Market and Customer Appreciation Sale!

2011-05-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at Spring Market in Salt Lake City last week. There were booths as far as the eye could see, and we are still digesting all the wonderful new ideas and products we saw there--it was amazing!!

We're also excited about the upcoming Customer Appreciation Sale, May 23-27. You're going to love all the deals we'll have going on next week. We are listening to your requests for big monthly sales, and this is going to be the best time to shop in the month of May! Visit www.atbquilts.com for details.

Giveaway results

2011-05-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who entered into our giveaway drawing! We hope you'll keep checking our blog and facebook page for more exciting news, sales, and giveaways in the future.

We used random.org to select the winners for our giveaway. Our first winner to get a free set of fat quarters is Rebecca Wind, who left a comment on our facebook wall. Our second lucky pick was from a comment on our blog post. Cpup40 said "Love this new line and would really like to win some." Congratulations to you both! Email us at info@atbquilts.com and send us your mailing info.

We're always up for improving things for you and making sure you're happy shopping with us. If you have some suggestions for further sales or giveaways you'd like to see, comment here on our blog anytime! We've even got a poll up on our website right now and would love your opinion. Go to http://www.atbquilts.com/ and give us your feedback.

Giveaway!!

2011-04-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in our newsletter, we're so excited about the new arrival of Full Circle by Kathy Schmitz to our shop that we're going to have a giveaway!! Don't get our newsletter? Go to http://www.aroundtheblockquiltersshop.com/ and sign up for our mailing list.

Take a look at this great fabric line.

Want to enter to win some free stuff? Just leave a comment on this blog post to be eligible to win a set of four fat quarters. Since we're giving away two sets, we'll also put a link to the blog post on facebook, and if you 'like' that link on facebook, you can get a second entry into the drawing.

The giveaway will be open until Sunday, May 1st, and we'll announce the two winners on Monday, May 2nd!

Quilt Camp--Last Train to Clarksville!

2011-04-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite activities, which we usually do throughout the summer, is to gather up a group of friends and family, pack up the cars with all our supplies, and go on a weekend retreat! We dedicate the entire time to quilting and laughing and we lovingly call it Quilt Camp.

We've held quilt camp in many different locations like Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and many different places in Missouri. The most recent retreat was in Clarksville, Missouri, right on the Mississippi. There's a small group of ladies that gets together at the shop on Friday afternoons, and we decided to extend our regular weekly sewing session to a longer weekend excursion.

Throughout the weekend, we sneak into each other's rooms and give 'pillow presents.' There have been so many cute ideas come from this fun tradition, and this trip was no exception! We saw a cute button bracelet, fabric fortune cookies, and some super cute scrap bags.

Even though the weather threw us for a loop, with beautiful 80 degree weather one day and then snow the next, it was a great weekend. As is customary with the wrapping up of Quilt Camp, we had to take a few pictures of our projects. Look at these beautiful quilts!

The first Quilt Camp of this summer was a fun one, and we're excited for our next one in May in Las Vegas!

Exciting Changes!

2011-03-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

There have been a few exciting changes going on around here lately...

First, our website got a brand new makeover and we couldn't be more excited! We've got a new look and there are some new features that you've got to see! Head on over to http://www.aroundtheblockquiltersshop.com/ to take a look, and feel free to leave a comment on this post and let us know what you think!

We had a lovely time as a vendor at a recent show in Highland, Illinois. Take a look at our display!

Here's Chris, standing proudly in front of her lovely handiwork.

And her friend Vivian, sitting in front of one of our One Block @ a Time quilt kits, Star Light, Star Bright. Click here to see both available versions on our website.

Here's another beautiful quilt that we had on display, called Chocolat. If you look closely, you'll see that there is text within the brown squares that all chocolate lovers can understand, including 'think inside the box' and 'I'd give up chocolate, but I'm no quitter!' You can find more details about Chocolat here.

We enjoyed the show in Highland and hope that if anything in these pictures catches your eye, you'll contact us about it! Send us an email at atbquilts@att.net or post on our Facebook page.

Happy 50th Birthday Vivian!!!

2010-03-31T13:32:00.000-07:00

My two worlds have collided perfectly! It's Vivian's 50th Birthday and our theme this month on the "Quilter's Gallery" website is "circles." What better way to celebrate one of my best friend's birthdays than writing about her inspirational "circles"??

Let me introduce you to Vivian. I know you have never met but there are a few things I want to share with you. Vivian is one of my very best friends. She is the Yin to my Yang. The cheese to my macaroni. She enjoys running around 90 miles an hour and I enjoy the art of holding still. We do however, happen to have a lot in common. We both live in O'Fallon, IL (on the same street for that matter!). We both love quilting (and get together with our other quilting girlfriends every Friday in my basement & quilt, quilt, QUILT!). We both have kids living all over the United States (with the exception of one child still living at home). The list goes on and on!

However, there is one thing that I wish we didn't have in common: cancer. Vivian has been battling cancer for the last 3-4 years now. No matter the number of battles Vivian has faced with cancer she is always in positive spirits and doesn't let any part of being sick keep her down. She was so determined not to let breast cancer get in the way with what she loves (exercising) that she ran in a half-marathon with some friends upon return from having her SECOND mastectomy AND reconstructive surgery!!!

She even remained in her calling at church which is a very hands-on task. Through surgery, trying to heal, radiation, etc. she has continued to serve others. What more of an inspirational friend can I ask for???

This quilt (above) is called "South of Normal". Vivian picked that name because we actually live south of "Normal, IL" and she felt like this was a perfect description of her life. Personally, I think a better description would be "North of Normal" because she is always climbing higher than the standard. Doing more than is required. Doing the "extra credit" in life that inspires you to be a better person.

I remember when my Timeless Treasures order arrived containing the "Taxi" fabric line. Vivian fell in love! She decided to make a quilt out of it called "Circles". (In all of her frugal-ness she stretched that one kit to make 2 other baby blankets---to include the backing!!) I thought it was so fitting for her to choose this particular pattern for this fabric. Just in 2009 she survived another bout of cancer, radiation, chemo, and the passing of her sister and brother-in-law. This quilt is bright and busy and just so.....Vivian! All of the circles randomly sewn throughout the quilt look like they belong there. Just like life, you are going along just fine then you get thrown a curve-ball. You have to recover, smooth it out and keep on going. Vivian is a perfect example. The only difference is when she's gone through a tumultuous circle that would knock most people over to the point of no return, she just brushes it off and runs a marathon. :) I don't know how she does it. I have battled my fair share of cancer and losing loved ones, but I'm continuously impressed with her amazing strength, positive attitude and unwavering faith through it all.

I could keep going on and on about you Viv but let me just say this: I am thankful to have you in my life and here's to another 50 years!!! Happy Birthday!

Love, Chris

Melinda's Finished Quilt

2010-03-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

Melinda is a customer of ours that ordered the "Little Lulu" fabric back in February 2009. She just finished the quilt for her mother. Check it out!!

I don't know if you can see it in these pictures very well but she had the open space of the squares & triangles quilted with 3 butterflies in each panel as she is one of 3 daughters and her mother has always loved butterflies. Not only will this quilt be special because it took so much time and effort, but those added little touches make it that much more personal.

Thanks Melinda for sending us the pictures of your completed project! It turned out AMAZING!! We love hearing feedback from our customers and ESPECIALLY seeing the finished product. I'm sure your Mom LOVED IT!

March International Mystery Quilt Clues

2010-03-03T05:55:00.001-08:00

Blonde & Blue Eyed

Swedish Meatballs
Midsummer Festival

This month's finished quilt is 48" by 66". Check out our website to order one of these cute mystery quilts now!

Don't forget: past month's quilt kits are still for sale in case you're just joining our

Quilter's Tour of the Globe!

February International Mystery Quilt Clues

2010-02-09T23:17:00.000-08:00

Here are your clues:

"Shamrock"

"Pot of Gold"

"Bonnie Lassie"

Don't miss out on one of our LUCKY mystery quilts this month!!!

We've Got SPRING FEVER!!!

2010-01-28T17:09:00.001-08:00

No really, we've got the new Spring Fever line by Me & My Sister for Moda Fabrics in stock now!! Leave all those dark and dreary colors of winter behind and let these fabrics inspire a fun and bright project just in time for spring!

Man Caught @ ATB Quilts & Left with Stitches!!

2010-01-23T09:44:00.001-08:00

DISCLAIMER: The names in this story have been changed to protect this man's reputation around the office... However, the pictures are a dead giveaway...

"Simon" had a dilemma on his hands. His wife "Paula's" birthday was rapidly approaching and he wanted to give her something special this year. Something homemade. Something to show her how much he loved her....

Luckily "Simon" goes to church with Christine (owner of Around the Block Quilter's Shop) and she had the perfect gift in mind: a quilt! The only catch: "Simon" needed to be the one to do it. All of it.

So after weeks of sneaking over to the shop "Simon" completed "Paula's" quilt just ONE DAY before her birthday.

Look at "Simon's" handiwork!!

***If I worked with "Simon" I would definitely pick THIS picture to hang up around the office :

Do you have a fun/interesting/touching quilting story that should be posted on our blog? If so, e-mail it to us at atbquilts@att.net We LOVE hearing how quilting has touched your life or those you love!!

We're on Facebook!

2010-01-17T13:38:00.000-08:00

We are excited to have another avenue to share our fun shop with you! If you don't have time to go to the website or blog everyday, become an Around the Block Quilter's Shop Fan on Facebook and be the first to know what's going on with us!

To become a fan simply go to your Facebook homepage, do a Search for "Around the Block Quilter's Shop" page and then click "Become a Fan". **Once you're a fan, don't forget to click on "Suggest to Friends".

We hope you enjoy yet another way to stay up on the sales, events and new products we get in EVERY DAY!!

International Mystery Series

2010-01-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

Our International Mystery Series is in full swing! Pack your bag and join us on a quilting adventure. The first of each month we will reveal three color clues for our next exotic destination. You choose the way you love most and we will ship it to you as quickly as possible to get started on your adventure. Each kit is $45. You will have the option of purchasing coordinating backing as well.

Check out January's Color Clues:

"Versailles Gardens," "Sun King South," and "French Kiss"

Be sure to check out our website for more information on the discounts you can receive for becoming a monthly traveler with us!

One Collection....so many choices!

2009-09-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

A recent Quilt Retreat for my sisters and their daughters and daughter in laws was a great time to get together and get these young whippersnappers educated in the important stuff.

The real way to catch a man is to keep him wrapped up tight and warm!

There were 5 young woman who needed a project to work on on this getaway into the Ozark Mountains. They had traveled far from home to create something beautiful. The other issue besides their noviceness (is that a word?) was there was different level of sewing experience.

We wanted something they would enjoy, share and find common ground with. The answer came with the bright colors and fun, youthful feel of the Object of Desires Collections by Sandy Gervais for Moda. 5 different patterns out of the same fabric.

It was like some social experiment that went very, very good!

Check out the fun!

Did you ever see a pair of shoes you just had to have-Then need to design an entire outfit around them?

2009-08-31T22:51:00.000-07:00

Well Amy is going to have to start designing a cute litte 7 year olds

bedroom, like soon.

She made this beautiful quilt from the Objects of Desire collection using

a pattern her mother had taught her when she was really young.

Wow! It's Purty!

Now she has to decorate her adorable 7 year olds bedroom around this quilt.

She's got loads of colors to work with.

Those bright colors are a perfect pallet for her daughters room.

Don't you love how creativity leads to more creativity.

I hope she sends us photos of the finished bedroom!

Thanks for sharing Amy!

Just a sample of the cute collection by Sandy Gervais

Objects of Desire

Have you ever had to change an entire room, bed, bath around your project? We'de love to here about it!

Free Pattern Project! Ron's World Buggy Barn

2009-02-06T20:55:00.000-08:00

Ron’s World

47-1/2” x 47-1/2”

Take your little one on an outing to the country and see

tractors, trains, and airplanes! This charming quilt uses

a variety of fun prints to compliment the squares of the

focus print panel.

Order your fabric here!

FABRIC REQUIREMENTS

DIAMOND IN A SQUARE BLOCKS:

Fat quarters of 4 blues

1 yard panel print (1846-66)

WHIRLWIND BLOCKS:

Fat quarters of 3 reds, 4 greens, 2 browns, 2 golds for

accent triangles

Fat quarter of 2 or 3 creams for backgrounds

1/3 yard gold (1841-34) for inner border

3/4 yard blue (1842-78) for outer border

1/2 yard (1844-88) for binding

3 yards backing (1846-66)

CUTTING REQUIREMENTS

DIAMOND IN A SQUARE BLOCKS

From each of four blues, cut:

(4) 5-1/2” squares. Crosscut once diagonally to yield a

total of (32) half-square triangles

From the panel, fussy cut (8) 6-7/8” squares to focus

on different scenes.

WHIRLWIND BLOCKS (8) blocks required.

For each block, cut:

From a red, cut (2) 5-3/8” squares. Crosscut once

diagonally to yield (4) half-square triangles for the

large pinwheel.

From a cream, cut (1) 5-3/4” square. Crosscut twice

diagonally to yield (4) quarter-square triangles for

background.

From a green, gold OR brown accent, cut:

(1) 5-3/4” square. Crosscut twice diagonally to yield (4)

quarter-square triangles for the inner pinwheel accents.

From the inner border, cut:

(2) 2” x 36-1/2” strips for the sides

(2) 2” x 39-1/2” strips for the top and bottom

From the outer border, cut:

(2) 4-1/2” x 39-1/2” strips for the sides

(2) 4-1/2” x 47-1/2” strips for the top and bottom

PIECING

For the Diamond in a Square block, stitch a blue

5-1/2” half-square triangle to opposite sides of

the center 6-7/8” square. Press seams toward

the triangles. Add the final two triangles to

complete the block.

Make (8)

For the Whirlwind blocks, begin by stitching

the 5-3/4” quarter squares triangles of cream

background and accent triangles together

as shown. Add the red 5-3/8” half-square

triangle to complete the unit. Stitch four units

together to complete the block. Repeat with

various combinations of fabrics for a total of (8)

blocks.

Make (4)

Per block

Make (8)

Stitch the quilt together in four rows of four

blocks each, alternating the Diamond in the

Square blocks with the Whirlwind blocks as

shown. Press the seams of alternate rows in

opposite directions. Stitch the rows together.

Add the inner border, first to the sides, then to

the top and bottom of the quilt.

Add the outer border, first to the sides, then to

the top and bottom of the quilt.

6-7/8”

5-3/8” half-square triangle

5-1/2” half-square triangle

5-3/4” quarter-square triangles

You can go to this link to see the quilt up close. It's so cute! http://www.henryglassfabrics.com/images/sheet/pdf/12407/RonsWorldforWebrev_1230065293_1.12

Alpine Wonder

2008-11-25T00:16:00.000-08:00

Alpine Wonder

Incredible what designers can do! This wall hanging is made from only four fabrics, the brown tree truck, and 3 fabrics that fade beautifully from dark to light to dark. It is made from 100% cotton fabric and is 35" x43". The kit contains the pattern and fabric to piece the top and to bind it. The pattern also includes directions for a smaller size tree (24" x32") as well as how to make it with non-gradient fabrics & as a Scrappy Tree. We like the example on the pattern so we followed it by adding heat set crystals which are available at most craft and fabric stores.

Sweet Birdie! This Adorable quilt pattern is free!

2008-11-23T19:55:00.001-08:00

This Sweet little quilt is colorful and bright. The collection of fabrics is sooooo cute.

All of the collection is available at atbquilts.com.

The free pattern can be downloaded at http://www.baumtextile.com/projects/pdf/sweet_birdie.pdf

Boy Scout Quilt! Adorable!

2008-11-21T21:18:00.000-08:00

Focus on your favorite Scouter with this 66" x 78" lap quilt. The fabrics each reflect the symbols used by the Boy Scouts of America. Complete kit contains pattern and all of the 100% cotton needed to construct the quilt top and to bind the quilt. Coordinating backing (4-3/4 yards needed) can be purchased separately in our Around the Block Fabric Section under the tab entitled "Boy Scouts of America".

Woodland Bloom is here!!!

2008-11-17T10:27:00.001-08:00

LDS Missionary Embroidery Project

2008-11-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

What a Great idea for your favorite missionary!

Check it out here!

Holiday Show!

2008-11-13T12:04:00.003-08:00

The Holiday Home show was a great place to unveil some of this years Holiday ideas. The kits are on line now! The hottest items for your Christmas list-Aprons, Aprons, Aprons. Check us out here for some of the best sellers!

Oh the possibilities!

2008-10-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

The possibilities are endless.

Autumn's Silent Beauty

2008-10-12T23:44:00.000-07:00

This 52" x 64" quilt is an adaptation of the Silent Beauty Design by Gerri Robinson. It combines the vibrant colors and the muted colors that make the Autumn season the favorite of many. The Kit contains the pattern and the fabric (100% Cotton) for the quilt top and binding. Coordinating backing fabric is available

Addy's Ducklings... a new quilt kit for a new grandbaby!

2008-09-08T17:57:00.001-07:00

Addy's Ducklings was designed and created in honor of my new little granddaughter Adalynn Grace. It is 100% cotton flannel (not intended for sleepwear). I used Moda's Rainy Day Duck panel and 4 pieces from their Baby Talk Collection. The quilt is 42" square. The kit contains the pattern and all the fabric needed to complete the patchwork top and the binding. Matching backing is available on request.

I love buttons!

2008-09-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

I have added my very own button for you to add to your blogs! I would love the help getting the word out! Just copy the html below the button on the upper right hand side of my blog page and copy it into your sidebar! I would appreciate it so much!

There is so many great things we are adding to the quilt store. Check back daily. October is quilt month so there are some really fun kits, fabrics and seasonal items in stock!

Thanks for checking in. But mostly...thanks for adding the button!!

Christine

Aprons!!

2008-08-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

It's not too early to think about what to wear while baking the perfect holiday Turkey!! HaHa. These aprons are really too cute. They are great gifts with a warm homemade touch! The patterns and kits can be found here

WOW! LDS Missionary Themed Fabric

2008-08-27T15:43:00.001-07:00

I hope the call me on a mission! Adorable Missionary fabric for quilts, scripture covers, and FHE. Pillowcases, laundry bags or ties. Cute for quiet pages and Sacrament Meeting activity bags!! The options are endless

New!! LDS Themed Fabrics

2008-08-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

CTR-Choose The Right

I Am A Child Of God