Backing my Snowball Block quilt

It's time to prepare the backing for the Snowball quilt so I can finish this one up. Remember when preparing the back, make sure it is at least six inches wider and longer than the actual quilt top. You will want this extra fabric because some of the fabric will be taken up in the quilting and you will also want a little extra for the clamps on the long arm machine. 

Remember machine quilting will not quilt out or correct excessive fabric in the borders and the quilting will not correct waviness or ripples. To avoid this always measure the length and width in 3 places (through the center and along each edge). 

Preparing the backing and binding are not my favorite tasks in finishing a quilt but, once you've gotten this far the motivation is there to complete the quilt and bind it. 

It's been so cold here in Texas that I'm actually looking forward to putting the binding on and having the quilt draped over my lap. Of course, here in Texas the weather changes so frequently that it won't be cold for long so I better hurry up and get this done. 

Cotton Prices are on the Rise

Cotton prices are on the rise and will affect everyone that uses or manufactures goods made of cotton.  According to the Dallas Morning News, the price of cotton has reached the highest levels since the disruptions of the Civil War. Currently China is number one in cotton production followed by India, Pakistan and the United States. Cotton prices are going up because of floods in Pakistan and India, and China's decision not to export cotton. This may be good for United States' cotton farmers but, not so good for quilters. 

Although the Chinese are the biggest producers, processors and importers of cotton, they don't export cotton because they consume more than they can produce. 

Don't expect the prices to come down anytime soon. Many of the fabric manufacturers have already started raising their prices. We at Two Bees Fabric will do everything we can to hold our prices.

Snowball block quilt

Yeah!  I went on a quilt retreat for a few days this week and I  finished one of my UFO's and, it's still only January!   So far I'm sticking with my resolution of not starting another project until I have finished at least 2 of the many quilts I already have started.  The quilt finished out at 92 by 108 inches.  Now, I just have to get the backing ready and have it quilted.   I'm very pleased with the outcome.

Snowball blocks are so easy and versatile, they are a great block for new quilters.

Clermont Farms

We just added a new Moda line, Clermont Farms by Minick & Simpson.   I just love it!  We will also be selling fat quarter bundles of 12 of this collection. 

Working on the Snowballs

So far I am still sticking with my 2011 quilting resolution which is not to start another project until I have completed 2.   So, I'm contining with the snowball quilt which is the closest to being completed.  I've finished all the blocks and I am almost finished putting the rows together.    I am really liking this one:) 

Happy New Year

Happy New Year!    It's time for resolutions, lists and dieting.     One of my resolutions for this year is that I'm going to reduce the number of UFO's I have.    I hate to admit it but, I have 12 projects started, some almost finished and some just begun.     This year my resolution is that I will not start another project until I have completely finished 2.  The first one I plan to complete is a snowball block quilt made with Wildrose fabrics by Brannock and & Patek a Moda line.   

I'd love to hear some comments on how many projects other readers have.   Is 12 alot or average?