Circus Tumblers

Who doesn't love the circus? The animals...the clowns...the excitement! Jean Nolte used the Under the Big Top collection by Kimberly Bourne to design a quilt for Easy Quilts magazine that evokes the thrill of a day at the circus. She even designed a template shape that is a nod to an icon within the big top. Read on:

"Tumbling Tumblers" by Jean Nolte; featured in Easy Quilts Spring 2014

What attracted you to the Under the Big Top collection?

I saw this line and thought it was something different than anything I had seen and would make a great toddler quilt. It's also a color way that always attracts me.

Can you tell us about the tumbler template?

I actually designed the Tumbler Template to use with this quilt. I thought it was sort of the same shape as the platform the ringmaster stands on.

Do you have a favorite print from the collection?

I love the print with all the characters. I designed the quilt around that one.

(This print is also available with a yellow or a white background.)

What do you like most about this quilt?  

It's done!!!!  :-)  Seriously, I just think it's a great collection of prints in colors I like.

What do you envision this quilt being used for?  

I made this quilt thinking it would be a toddler quilt. I rarely have actual plans for a quilt – I just make what I like.

See the Under the Big Top collection here.
Find Easy Quilts magazine here. (Don't have/want to buy the issue? You can also purchase a digital download of this pattern using the link.)
Find the kit for this project here.

p.s. Next week we'll be featuring a blog hop of kids' quilt designs, with an emphasis on charities collecting quilts for children in need. Make sure you stop by and check it out!

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5 Summer Sewing Ideas

Where do you find summer sewing inspiration? When warm, sunny days are calling your name, it can be hard to make time for a little soul-soothing stitching. We've got inspiration and ideas to get you started!

1. Everyone needs a tote bag
Between trips to the beach, farmer's markets, or even just running errands around town, nothing puts a spring in your step like a new bag. Plus, even if the bag is quilted, it's so much smaller than a quilt--you can finish it quickly without spending those sunshine-y days hidden away in your sewing room. 

Try a nautical-themed tote using our beachy Cabana collection from Kanvas. The tote is designed by Joanie Holton and Melanie Greseth of Tailormade by Design and the pattern is featured in the Summer 2013 Quilts and More issue. 

Photo courtesy Quilts and More magazine

Find the magazine here.
Find the kit and learn more about Tailormade by Design here.
See the entire Cabana collection here.

2. Nothing says "summer" like themed prints!

Melons? We have 'em! Mad for Melons

Cocktails? Complete with plastic flamingo drink stirrers! Happy Hour II

Headed for the beach? Ocean Avenue

Take me out to the ballgame... Who's on First

3. Can you say "panel quilt?" 
Nothing goes together faster--Add pieced borders for added interest--but the majority of the work is done for you. Little effort, big results! 

Kimberly Bourne's "Circus Circus" panel quilt, featuring her Under the Big Top fabric collection, is featured in the summer issue of 2013. Easy pinwheel blocks and a fussy-cut parade border enhance the main big top scene. Quick to sew, perfect for a little one. 

Photo courtesy of Quilts and More magazine

Find the magazine here.

Find the kit here.

See the entire Under the Big Top fabric collection here.

4. Hit your summer reading list
Have a Kindle, Nook, or other e-reader? A handmade case will keep it safe as you tackle that summer reading list, whether it's relaxing chick lit, inspiring biographies, or a murder mystery. 
You can find Ebony Love's e-reader tutorial here on our blog. 

5. Pick a "Christmas in July" project
You'll be so glad to have it done when busy December rolls around. And, since the deadline is far off, even 15 minutes of sewing a day will get you there. 
Starting next week, we'll be introducing our 2013 holiday fabric lines here on the blog and on Facebook, and our July blog hop will feature tutorials using these fabrics as well. Stay tuned!

Ho, Ho, Ho Let It Snow by Nancy Halvorsen

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