Memorial weekend is the
official beginning of summer in Minnesota. It's a little bit cool, but
the leaves are out, the loons are back and the lilacs are in full bloom. I
love the colors this time of the year. Shades of green range from
chartreuse to lime to deep forest green. The fresh colors in the woods and
the flowers bring out a whole new palette that I try to include in my
quilting and decorating projects this time of the year. I get so excited
when I visit the nursery and garden centers that are overflowing with
cascading hanging baskets. This year, I have noticed wonderful combinations
of plants that add a splash of color. One of my favorite combos is the sweet
potato vine and plum parfait coleus mixed with dark blue lobelia. An urn
full of flowers or a window box with unusual color and shape that trail
prettily over the edge are charming and creative ways to brighten a patio or
dark corner. Like flowers, quilts evoke images of quaint cottages or
mountain retreats. Summer is the perfect time to bring out the child in you
and share those fond memories as you relax in the backyard on your favorite
quilt. 
As you are relaxing, start planning your next
quilt project. We have had so many new items come into the shop the
past few weeks. New patterns,
books and fabrics that were ordered at market are already here.
We all know how quickly time goes. To help you get organized for fall
quilting, we have kits ready now for the newest and best
patterns. Pumpkins Go Round was one of the market favorites, a small 42-inch table topper in the round that fits any style of home. If you are thinking of a new tree skirt, check out Mitten Tree Skirt. A touch of wool is added to the mitten appliqué for a fun look. Starlight Pines is a wonderful throw or can be made into a queen-size quilt. Large pine trees are so dramatic and also make for a fast-piecing quilt.
Thimbleberries new flannel collection is one line of flannels you won't be able to resist. The Country House collection is comprised of 24 prints and 9 plaids. The signature print has the look and feel of a tapestry velveteen. The soft, supple flannel is one of the best on the market. The large floral print is available three different color ways. Warm Heart showcases the large burgundy red floral in the outer border. Order extra fabric to make a few large Euro pillows to throw on the couch or bed. If you need a dust ruffle, the Country House Plaid drapes beautifully for a fine finished look.
The
Evergreen Inn Quilt book
just arrived in the back door. What a great book to use all the
Evergreen Inn cottons and flannels .
It's Snowing at
the Inn and
Two Colors, Too Easy
are just a couple of quilts in this book. Two Color, Too Easy is just
that, but outstanding! This is the year you can make a Christmas quilt
for you and extra for a gift --- it's that easy (but everyone will think
you're a genius
it looks so good).
It has now been six months since my granddaughter Emma Elizabeth was born, so I had a bit of a different focus during spring market. I found these jacket patterns that I just had to share with you. Frogs and Flowers and Best Pals were just too cute to resist. The base for both patterns is a sweatshirt, so I know I can get these done in a weekend. Our Mothers and Daughters Day tea was so much fun, I think we'll have to do it again... maybe by then we will all be wearing Frogs and Flowers jackets.
Remember June 14th is Flag Day. Picnic Stars, Glory Be, and Picnic Stars and Checkerboard all make great projects to show your colors.