The Shabby

Dolly Days - Tell us about your dolly!

2012-01-18T10:01:00.000-08:00

The Dolly Days BOM begins in just a few weeks, and I thought it would be fun to reminisce with you about our favorite dollies!

There are just a few spots left in this program, so sign up today!

Tell us about your favorite doll growing up. How did she get her name? What are some of your favorite memories of your doll?

Here is what some of the girls here had to say:

Julie - My favorite doll was named Jessica - named after the neighbor's grandbaby. (I always named my dolls after real babies!) My best friend also had a doll named Jessica, but hers was bald and mine had beautiful brown curls. In time, however, those brown curls turned into a matted mess! When I got older, my mom displayed Jessica in our home, wearing a dress and bonnet my great-grandmother wore as a toddler.

Tiffany - My favorite doll growing up was my very first Cabbage Patch Kid that my grandmother made me for my 3rd birthday. My grandma sewed the body and attached a Cabbage Patch doll head! She also made about ten different outifts for the doll, as well. I don't remember the doll's name, but my grandma still has a picture of me and the doll on her fridge!

Liz - I didn't have a favorite doll growing up, but my sister did. One time we were playing and needed a boy doll, so I took my sister's favorite doll and cut off all of her hair. To this day, my sister has not forgiven me!

Brenda Riddle Giveaway Winners!

2012-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

With all of the chaos of the last couple of weeks, we forgot to announce the winners for our Brenda Riddle giveaway! Congratulations to the following four randomly selected winners:

Velma

Michele

JCinNC

and Simplytoled

You have each won a pattern or book by Brenda Riddle! I have emailed each of you with redemption instructions.

Remember, you can't win if I don't have a way to contact you! Be sure to leave your email address with your comment or on your profile.

Country Cottages Block One!

2012-01-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's time! The first block of Country Cottages Mystery BOM is now ready to download. Click below to download the PDF directly. You will need Acrobat Reader, which is available as a free download here.

We still have spots available in our Block of the Month program, which includes the fabrics we used.

Want to learn our method of applique? Head to our YouTube channel.

Share your finished blocks and get inspiration from others by accessing our Flickr group.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Instructions

Block One

Enjoy!

Congrats To Our $20.12 Gift Certificate Winners!

2012-01-05T16:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the following winners who will each receive a $20.12 gift certificate to Shabby Fabrics!

Patricia Hanna

Donna Austin

Heather Kosbab

Thank you for your kind words, we appreciate reading all of your kind feedback.

Happy New Year Everyone!!

Looking Ahead To 2012

2011-12-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

Happy (almost) New Year All,

As we close the door on 2011 and reflect at the year that has passed, I'd like to give you a glimpse into what is ahead for 2012.

In January Lynn, Dave, and I will head to Ontario California for the Road To California Quilt Show which is January 19- 22. It's our first time visiting and we hope everyone will be able to come out and see us. Shabby Fabrics can be found in booths 1304 & 1306. I will also be participating in the Roundabout Friday, January 20th from 7:30 - 9:30 PM in the Empire Ballroom at the Doubletree Hotel (immediately adjacent to the Convention Center.). I will be demonstrating my appliqué technique since it has been so popular and well-received. Roundabout features a variety of quilt teachers and vendors giving mini-demonstrations while students rotate on an informal basis between the tables at 10 minute intervals. I hope everyone has a chance to make it to the show, we would love to see all of you there!

Of course we will be making our annual trip to Puyallup, Washington for SewExpo. Lynn, Dave and I will head over the west side of Washington for the Expo March 1st - 4th, and this time we're bringing Tiffany with us! Last year we had quite a few requests for cut yardage of our fabric, and this year we're going to be bringing some of our favorites along! I don't know how many and which collections we will be bringing, but yardage will be available for purchase at our booth. As soon as we have our booth assignments I will make sure to let everyone know where you can find us.

We will of course make the trip to Houston for International Quilt Festival again in the fall.

I will be working on more designs in the coming year and introducing new BOM programs as well. We're starting the year off right with a FREE Mystery BOM which everyone will get to view on January 7th!

I'd like to take a minute and thank you all for a wonderful year of patronage and loyalty. We strive very hard to maintain an exceptional level of customer service. We work to make sure every order is accurate and shipped as quickly as possible. We strive to make sure your block of the month fabric packets are neat and well organized. We work at providing excellent customer service with each email and phone call we receive.

So, here's the fun part! I would love some feedback from all of you regarding what you love about Shabby Fabrics. What is your favorite part of Shabby Fabrics? Is it our fabric selection, our fat quarter sets, our kits, our BOM programs, or is there something I'm missing? Please let me know what you love about Shabby Fabrics and I'll pick three responders who will each win a gift certificate for $20.12 to ring in the New Year!!! So, that means you've got 3 chance to win a gift certificate to Shabby Fabrics!!! Winners will be announced on January 3, 2012 so don't delay!

Thank you all once again and blessings to you always,

Jen

Top 10 Block Of the Month Programs in 2011

2011-12-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

Our Block Of the Month programs and clubs are something we truly enjoy offering. Picking the fabrics for each pattern, cutting and collating, even packaging and shipping them out - we love every last detail of these programs! Over the last year we've had the pleasure of offering close to 30 programs at Shabby Fabrics. We thought we would take a look back at the most popular programs we have offered.

Top 10 Block Of the Month Programs in 2011

1. Blessings of Spring
Blessings of Spring has been a wonderful block of the month program for our customers. The signups for this program were tremendous and it was sold out in no time! This program was the first one offered in the series and the interest today from quilt shops and customers alike is still very strong.

2. Blessings of Summer
Blessings of Summer was the second quilt to be released in the Blessings Series. Releasing the program this last summer was perfect timing! Featuring the little red wagon full of flowers, and the Sunflowers too, it's the perfect summertime quilt! Full kits and pattern sets are still available for this quilt.

3. Poinsettias de Noel
Poinsettias de Noel was designed by Jennifer and was in very popular demand during the enrollment process. Each 12" perimeter block features piecing, while the center block features appliqué. It's the perfect additional to your home for the holidays!

4. Great Pumpkin
There's no better way than to celebrate Autumn with this vibrant 73" x 76" quilt featuring pumpkins, pumpkins, and more pumpkins! The program sold out in record time, but there are still patterns available separately.

5. Quilted Village
This quaint town settled around a village green is the perfect choice to add a touch of charm to your home! Quilt can be completed using either appliqué or paper foundation piecing - instructions for both are included. Add finishing touches with silk ribbon embroidery and traditional embroidery. The program is now sold out, but the pattern is still available for individual sale.

6. Farmhouse
Edyta Sitar of Laundry Basket Quilts has designed this beautiful quilt featuring cottages and fruit. Quilt finishes to 61" x 61". Each block incorporates both piecing and appliqué. The program is no longer available for signup but the book can still be purchased.

7. Merry Merry Snowmen
Merry Merry Snowmen is a 10-month Block of the Month Program designed by Anne Sutton of Bunny Hill Designs. This 62" x 66" quilt features plenty of jolly snowmen! Program begins in February 2012 and runs for ten months, ending in November 2012.

8. Little Red Barns
You can easily get swept away to the countryside every time you look at this quilt! Little Red Barns by The Quilt Company is a darling farm-themed quilt, complete with roosters, sheep, and, of course, little red barns.

9. Dolly Days
Reminisce about days gone by with this darling 46" x 54" paper doll-themed quilt! The Dolly Days heirloom quilt is the perfect gift for a daughter or granddaughter. This Block of the Month Program begins in February 2012 and ends in December 2012.

10. Sweetheart Houses
This program is one of the newest Shabby Fabrics exclusives and it's seen high enrollment - the program doesn't even begin until Summer of 2012! We can't wait to get this program started and we hope all of you are just as enchanted with the sweetness of this quilt like we are!

Which of these Block Of the Month programs are you currently enrolled in? We want to know if there are any patterns you would like to see offered as a block of the month in 2012. Have you seen our newest programs Amish With A Twist, By My Hand, and our newest Shabby Exclusive Country Cottages Mystery? Country Cottages will be a FREE program!

We've got some great new programs coming your way in 2012!

Mystery BOM - Country Cottages!

2011-12-28T13:04:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce that we will be offering a Mystery Block of the Month for 2012! The best part? The pattern will be a free download available right here at The Shabby!

Country Cottages is the first mystery BOM designed by Shabby Fabrics. This darling calendar style quilt is just so much fun, featuring quaint cottages and some special themed surprises each month! The pattern will be available as a free download around the 7th of each month right here on on our blog. This quilt features applique, hand embroidery, and wool felt accents.

Here is a sneak peek:

Want to use the fabrics shown? Sign up for our BOM program, which runs February 2012-December 2012. All fabrics, embroidery floss, and embellishments are included. Enrollment fee is just $10 to reserve your spot. Sign up today!

The pattern for Block 1 will be available around January 7th.

Are you excited about this? What do you think future blocks will include? Have you participated in mystery quilt programs before?

Shabby Fabrics Top 10 Kits of 2011

2011-12-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Shabby Fabrics Top 10 Kits of 2011

Often times people look at the price tag on a kit and think it's a little overwhelming. We always encourage our customers to consider this option for a few reasons:

1. This is the most cost efficient way to make a quilt. Sometimes as you know, the pattern can call for 1/4 yd or even less, and the smallest cut of fabric you can purchase is a 1/2 yd. If you're purchasing the kit you don't have to worry about paying for the additional yardage.

2. If you like the look of the quilt, the kit is the right option for you. Unless otherwise noted our full kits come with the original fabrics used to create the original. Which means - NO SUBSTITUTIONS!

3. Free Shipping! Our domestic customers will always receive free shipping on orders over $100.

1. Shabby Fabrics 7 Piece Appliqué Kit
Earlier this year Jennifer created a step by step tutorial on YouTube featuring the appliqué process. The video became a huge hit and everyone wanted to know what tools were used. We've combined all the essentials into a 7 piece kit. The Basic Kit includes the following: Stiletto, Turning Tool, 2 oz. bottle of Roxanne Glue-Baste-It, 50 sheets of C. Jenkins Freezer Paper (which can be put through a printer), a Loew-Cornell stipple brush for applying your spray starch, a case of 16 Straw Needles, and the Shabby Fabrics Appliqué Guide - a step-by-step photo guide of Jennifer Bosworth's own appliqué technique which explains how to use each of the above items.

2. Wreath of Spring
This pattern was featured in the May/June 2011 issue of McCall's Quilting. Wreath of Spring is a gorgeous quilt designed by Jennifer. Featuring a wreath of roses and several borders, this quilt finishes to 51 1/2" square. People just discovering this quilt still call to see if we have kits available. We sold the last one many months ago, but we still have some of the fabrics used.

3. Blessings of Spring
This exclusive design was created by Jennifer and featured all of the Blessings of Spring: tulips, daisies, ladybugs, a birdhouse, a gardening angel, and more! Each block features both piecing and appliqué. The last kit of this quilt was sold at International Quilt Market in Houston earlier this fall. Though the full kit is gone, it's never forgotten as it was the first quilt in the Blessings Series.

4. Yellow Brick Road
This kit perfect choice for a beginners project! Kit includes pattern, all top fabrics, borders, and binding to create the Queen Size (93" x 102") quilt that looks much more difficult than it is! Our version features pinks, yellows, blues, and creams for a shabby look.

5. Black Beauty
Jet black, gorgeous florals, and rich colors combine for a spectacular result! This stunning queen size quilt may look difficult, but is actually made using simple piecing. Kit includes pattern plus all top fabrics including borders and binding. Finished size is 85" x 102".

6. Deco Delight
This stunning quilt was quick and easy! The kit included all top fabrics and the pattern was offered as a free download. We couldn't believe how quickly these kits went out the door!

7. Blessings of Summer
Blessings of Summer is the 2nd pattern in The Blessings SeriesTM by Shabby Fabrics. This cheerful 55" x 65" quilt celebrates all the joys of warm summer days with twirling pinwheels, a wagon full of daisies, yummy ice cream cones and so much more. Tiny wooden clothes pins secure miniature quilts to the clothesline for added fun!

8. Rabbits Prefer Chocolate
Finished size is 52"x54". The kit includes top fabrics, borders, and binding! An extensive embellishing kit of buttons, ribbon, Swarovski pearls, gingham bows, ric rac and full skeins of embroidery floss are included!

9. Enchanted Holiday Table Runner Kit
Jennifer designed this beautiful runner which features appliqué and simple patchwork. Finishes to 22 1/2" x 59 1/2". Designed to coordinate with our Enchanted Holiday Stocking and Enchanted Holiday Tree Skirt. This kit includes pattern, all fabrics including backing, and button embellishments.

10. As For Me & My House
Pinwheels and a red, white, and cream color palette give this an Americana feel. The verse "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. - Joshua 24:15" is prominently embroidered above the house. Finishing to 41" x 41.

Which of these kits are your favorite?

Shabby Fabrics Top 10 Patterns of 2011

2011-12-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
As the year draws to a close I thought I would take some time this week to reminisce. Each day I will be sharing with you the top items that we sold in each category in 2011. Today I'm going to share with you the Top 10 Patterns sold throughout the year.

1. Blessings of Spring
This cheerful quilt celebrates everything Spring! The pattern set includes patterns for all 9 blocks - including large close-up photographs of each block, finishing instructions, a fabric selection guide, and the Shabby Fabrics Applique Guide - a step-by-step guide for spray starch appliqué! Quilt finishes to 56" x 62".

2. Blessings of Summer
This joyous 55" x 65" quilt celebrates all the joys of warm summer days with twirling pinwheels, a wagon full of daisies, yummy ice cream cones and so much more. Tiny wooden clothes pins secure miniature quilts to the clothesline for added fun!

3. Holly & Berries Table Runner
This embellished Holly & Berries Tablerunner is 23" x 50". You'll have so much fun making this quick and easy project using charm squares, fusible appliqué, simple hand embroidery and sequin embellishments.

4. Vintage Valentine
Every now and again we stumble upon a pattern that causes us to catch our breath. This design called "Vintage Valentine" does just that. The beauty of this 72" x 72" heart quilt is like no other. You will receive full size templates of all appliqué pieces as well as close-up photographs of every block

5. Quilted Village
This unique quilt features all of the traditional buildings of a village: rowhouses, a schoolhouse, a chapel, town hall, and more, all around a village green! Quilt finishes to 57" x 60". This pattern set includes all 12 patterns needed to create the quilt as well as instructions for the ribbon embroidery and other embellishments. This is a perfect project for a quilt guild or community project. Project can be appliqued or paper-pieced.

6. Poinsettias de Noel
Create this stunning 68" x 68" quilt, Poinsettias de Noel, designed by Jennifer Bosworth! Each 12" perimeter block features piecing, while the center block features appliqué. Pattern includes all instructions. Consider adding the Embellishing Kit which includes gold beads, hand pressed buttons for the holly berries and gold metallic velvet ribbon.

7. Holiday Charm
The Holiday Charm pattern shows you how to make the adorable 54.5" Christmas quilt. This fun and easy table topper features an inner border of sweet hand embroidery and red glass bead accents. The piano key scalloped border is finished with a bias cut red/white striped fabric for a fun Candy Cane effect. A Shabby Fabrics exclusive design.

8. Baltimore Christmas
Baltimore Christmas is a beautiful appliqué quilt by Pearl! This is truly a spectacular heirloom quilt when completed. The 24" center medallion Santa block is surrounded by twelve 12" album style blocks with holly and berry swag appliqué border. Finished size is 69" x 69".

9. Holly & Berries Tree Skirt
The tree skirt features eight scalloped quilted panels of holly, candy cane sashing, jumbo ric rac and plenty of darling buttons and sequins for that wonderful holiday sparkle . The tree skirt is 45" in diameter..

10. Quilt For Hope
This Shabby Fabrics Exclusive pattern has been entirely rewritten and now includes instructions for 4 sizes: Crib (33" x 48"), Twin (74" x 98"), Full/Queen (92" x 98"), and King (104" x 104"). This quilt uses both piecing and appliqué to create a stunning design with the Holy Cross as the focus. Fabric Kits are also available for each size.

Which of these patterns are your favorite, and why?

New Year’s Eve 2011 Twitter Party!

2011-12-13T10:51:00.000-08:00

‘Tis that time once again to ring in the New Year with your nearest and dearest! Shabby Fabrics has teamed up with Stitch'n Heaven and a bunch of other really fun sponsors to ring in the New Year with prizes on Twitter! Not a Tweeter? That is O.K. ! Create your FREE Twitter account here. Then follow these easy "how to" party instructions:

1. Go to www.tweetchat.com (or the platform of your choice if you have another you prefer)

2. Enter SHPARTY next to the hashtag (#) at the top of the screen. Once you do that all conversations and party goers for our party will show up in a list just below the top of the page.

3. Sign into Twitter if you aren’t already. You will be prompted to allow or deny the app to access your account. Click “allow".

4. You will be redirected to the party page where you will only see conversations for #SHPARTY partyers.

5. Use the text box to write your messages. No need to put #SHPARTY in each post because Tweetchat does that for you.

6. Party! We will post messages to the party and you respond. You’ll see the conversation roll. You may want to set the speed of messages, either slower to keep up or faster to get your messages almost as soon as they post without the delay. However you want, it’s your party! You can find how to set the speed right under your message box.

Remember we can all have fun in different time zones wishing one another a Happy New Year, well, aside from our awesome International customers who will be partying with us in the middle of the day! It will be so much fun and we know you will all be the best party guests!... and here's the best part, I don't have to do dishes after the party!

So. I'm sure everyone is wondering what will be offered at the party? Well, you can check the details here, but I can tell you that Shabby Fabrics is going to give away 5, $20 gift certificates throughout the night. We hope to see you all online on New Year's Eve!

Cheers,

Jen

Ruffles!!!

2011-12-09T17:16:00.000-08:00

Love ruffles? Girly? Frilly & feminine? Take a look at our newest collection: Ruffle Fabrics! These fun fabrics feature ruffles across the width and are excellent choices for a variety of projects.

Here are just two ideas for how to use these fabrics:

Create a beautiful pillow!

Sew up a flirty skirt!

How would you use these fabrics?

Give Thanks Giveaway Winners!

2011-12-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

Announcing the winners of our "What are you thankful for?" pattern giveaway:

Christine M of Australia

Carol of Arizona

Luvtoquilt of California

Congratulations, ladies! You have each won a the Bountiful Harvest Pattern Set!
Thank you to all who shared with us what you are thankful for!

Designer Focus - Brenda Riddle of Acorn Quilt & Gift Company and Giveaway!

2011-11-30T16:56:00.000-08:00

Our Featured Designer this month is Brenda Riddle of Acorn Quilt & Gift Company. We have the privilege of hearing about how Brenda got started in the business. So sit back and enjoy the story!

My love of working (playing really) with fabric and threads began when I was a little girl learning how to embroider. I had seen the table covers and doilies that my Mom had inherited from her mom and grandma, and I felt such a sense of belonging as I was also learning to do the variety of pretty stitches. I could sit and stitch for hours!

Then there were the beautiful patchwork quilts that Mom kept on the higher shelves in the linen closet. A little higher than I could reach, but I would always take a peek at them whenever I was asked to get something for my Mom from the lower shelves. . . or when putting away the towels when ‘helping’ my Mom folding the laundry. (Confession: I still like folding laundry!) The quilts were saved for ‘special’ occasions - when snuggling and comfort was especially needed - like when I had a cold or those times when Mom knew that cuddles wrapped in one of the quilts would help make everything little better. (She was so right - they still have that effect on me!)

As I grew, I started making my own clothes in middle school, and I continued to make many of my clothes until my early adult years. Then I was introduced to fabric stores, and my first job was working in a fabric shop when I was in high school. Not much of my paycheck ever made it out of the shop - but my love for bolts and bolts of fabric was definitely embedded into my creative soul.

In college, I majored in Art/Design and after graduating I worked in the architecture and interior design fields for about 9 years. It was a wonderful way to get to use my love for design, but there was something missing. It was becoming a ‘job’, and I was losing the joy.

All during these years, I had also worked with high school kids in my church's youth groups, and after a summer trip to Guatemala with a group of them, I realized that I would love to work with kids full time. So I left the design field and started teaching art and design in a private high school. I loved watching the kids learn and try and grow in their abilities and in their belief in their abilities; taking things step-by-step. I was reminded of a saying that my Grandpa would say, “. . . from little acorns, mighty oaks grow”.

It was also during this time that I began quilting and loving every aspect of it. I found that everything I had done before (creativity-wise) all seemed to fit perfectly with quilting. I taught at the high school for 15 years and during the last four years I began to grow Acorn Quilt & Gift Company. I was encouraged to go to Quilt Market, and once I did I knew that this was what I wanted to do. I said goodbye to full time teaching (I still like to sub now and again), and I’ve been very blessed with everything that has happened since. From designing quilts, fabric, and ever-expanding needlework designs I am one happy and blessed girl!

My latest pattern, By My Hand, is one that is very dear to my heart. It reflects my love for all the aspects of quilting (piecing and appliqué), but also incorporates stitchery with its embroidery. The focus of the design is the cross-stitch samplers that I have always loved. Many of the vintage samplers were done by younger girls. It reminds me of the days when I was first introduced to a needle and thread and the incredible wonderful journey that has since come my way!

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Brenda!

We have By My Hand available as a Block of the Month beginning in March, and patterns are also available separately. Take a look at all of Brenda's products in our Featured Designer category.

Brenda's dog Bailey has one more announcement!

That's right, Home Comforts, Comfort & Joy, and Simple Things Small Joys have all been marked down 30%.

GIVEAWAY!

Four lucky winners will receive a pattern or book by Brenda Riddle! Enter a comment below sharing what your favorite Brenda Riddle pattern is, or tell us what you liked about Brenda's story.

November Giveaway Winners!

2011-11-30T16:07:00.000-08:00

Announcing the winners of our Verna Mosquera pattern giveaway:

RitaInAlaska of Alaska

Mom C. of Utah

Kate B. of British Columbia

Congratulations, ladies! You have each won an autographed copy of Autumn Sunset!

Thank you to all who participated. The next giveaway will be up soon!

What Are You Thankful For?

2011-11-16T15:18:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Thanksgiving is next Thursday? For those of you that are less familiar with Thanksgiving, here is a little back story. The event that Americans commonly call the "First Thanksgiving" was celebrated by some of the first colonists to give thanks to God for guiding them safely to the New World. The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days - can you imagine planning to cook that much food for three days?! The New England colonists were accustomed to regularly celebrating "thanksgivings"—days of prayer thanking God for blessings such as military victory or the end of a drought.

My question for all of you is, what are you most thankful for? Comment on my post below and share with everyone the things you are thankful for. To show my appreciation to all of you for sharing your thoughts with me, I'll randomly select 3 responders who will receive our Shabby Fabrics Exclusive Bountiful Harvest Table Runner and Bountiful Harvest Wall Hanging patterns. We also have kits available for both the table runner and the wallhanging.

Warm Regards,

Jen

Tweeting Good Deals!

2011-11-16T08:58:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

I wanted to take the opportunity to share with you all something new and exciting that I have started. Shabby Fabrics will now be offering promotions and discounts using our Twitter account. I know that some of you may not be familiar with Twitter. However, I think now is the right time to get with the program.

Starting today we will be offering promotions to our Twitter followers. Special deals and savings will be "tweeted" periodically. Coupon codes will be listed in our tweets, which can only be seen if you are a Shabby Fabrics Twitter follower. We sent our first coupon tweet out this morning!

So what do you need to do to gain access to Twitter? All you need to do is create an account, and "follow" Shabby Fabrics! Our account name is "ShabbyFabrics". Watch your newsfeed for the newest promotions from Shabby Fabrics! Please take the opportunity to "tweet" at us too, we love chatting with our customers!

All aboard the Twitter train - tweeet, tweeet!

Jen

Vintage Rouge BOM!

2011-11-14T17:19:00.000-08:00

Announcing the Vintage Rouge Block of the Month Program!

Vintage Rouge, by Vicki Bellino of Bloom Creek, is a classic quilt with a holiday flair. The 78" x 78" quilt utilizes both piecing and applique and is absolutely stunning in person! This Block of the Month Program includes pattern plus top fabrics, borders, binding, and embroidery floss. Fabrics will be exactly as shown from the Vintage Rouge collection by Faye Burgos of Marcus Brothers. Program beings in May 2012 and runs for six months, ending in October 2012. The program is $34 per month plus $5 shipping for US customers and $9 shipping for International customers. Enrollment fee is $10 to reserve your space.

A coordinated 3-piece Kimono Silk Thread set is also available!

Join us today!

Designer Focus - Verna Mosquera of The Vintage Spool & Giveaway!

2011-11-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

Our November Featured Designer is Verna Mosquera of The Vintage Spool. Verna is known for her intricate applique quilts and has released two fabric collections this year. Here is what Verna had to say:

Verna in a top created with one of the
voiles from the October Skies collection.

I was so excited when Shabby Fabrics asked me to do a guest post about my new fabric collection October Skies for FreeSpirit Fabric. This is now my 5th fabric collection and it is hard to believe all that has happened to me in the quilting and fabric world since I began.

I started out as a student who was intrigued by quilting and just wanted to learn how to make a quilt. I took my first class over 15 years ago and have literally been quilting every day since. I was hooked from the word go and found myself soon teaching classes and building a following of people who enjoyed my teaching style and color sense.

Not long after I began to dabble in pattern design. I started The Vintage Spool with my husband Miguel when I was expecting my second son Nico back in 2004. I had always wanted a creative career and the quilt world offered me the opportunity to be an entrepreneur and a stay at home mom to my two sons Milo and Nico at the same time.

Verna's beautiful studio!

We launched with 6 pattern designs and started moving my samples around to different shops across the country. It didn’t take long for word to spread and for me to realize that my heirloom patterns struck a cord with many and filled a special niche in the market place. By our second year in business we decided we were ready to go to the International Quilt Market in Houston and that was when things really got interesting.

My quilt pattern designs were suddenly being purchased by wholesale shops and distributors all over the world. That coupled with the internet boom and word began to spread very quickly. At that same market I met Donna Wilder, previous owner of FreeSpirit Fabrics who loved my look and asked if I could do a line of fabric for FreeSpirit. I was thrilled to join such an up and coming group of designers and still feel incredibly blessed to be in such great company.

The first line was challenging to do as fabric design was all so new to me. When Sweet Escape debuted it was wonderful to see what a great response it got and energized me to do more lines and learn even more about the fabric world. As I began to design October Skies I realized how much I’ve learned and how much I truly enjoy working with my own fabric designs.

Verna and Jennifer

Although I’m often recognized for my soft color palette I knew I wanted to explore an autumn color theme. I did what I always do when I design and began to make a list of all that I found beautiful about the season. Sometimes I clip things from magazines or find swatches of color from fabric or paint chips. The colors were derived from everything from acorns, butternut squash, pumpkins, and especially California’s autumn sunsets (that’s where the pink comes in).

I am so excited to have both fabrics and patterns hit the market. October Skies just made its formal debut at the International Quilt Market in Houston. It is always terrific when customers finally get to see your vision. I hope they will be inspired to make some wonderful things from the collection. Both fabrics and patterns can be purchased at www.shabbyfabrics.com.

Thank you so much for letting me share about my designs.

Verna

Thank YOU, Verna! We love carrying your patterns and fabrics and are happy to feature you this month!

Take a look at all of Verna's products on our website here. Verna's last collection, Tea Cakes, was just adorable, and we still have kits available for two of her patterns using the fabric: Princess Tea Party (left) and Sugar Kisses (below).

GIVEAWAY!!

We are happy to announce a giveaway! Three lucky readers will each receive a copy of Autumn Sunset autographed by Verna! To enter, leave a comment below telling us your favorite Vintage Spool item. One entry per person, enter until November 30, 2011.

Autumn Sunset

International Quilt Market Weekend Recap

2011-11-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

Howdy from Houston everyone! I reckon the time has come to share with you all of the fun things I experienced this past weekend!

Friday was a whirlwind of a day spent putting the finishing touches on our booth, preparing from Sample Spree, and having a traditional Texas BBQ dinner at Rachel Ashwell's ranch. Lynn arrived Friday afternoon to help us put the finishing touches on our booth. Once the booth was near completion I headed out to prepare for dinner. Lynn and Dave spent their Friday evening working a very busy Sample Spree. While Lynn and Dave were at Sample Spree holding down the fort, I boarded a chartered bus and headed to Rachel's ranch.

The food was amazing, and her ranch was absolutely gorgeous. Rachel Ashwell, much like myself has a taste for all things shabby and beautiful. Many of you may be familiar with Rachel's most recent collection of fabrics Garden Rose.

Saturday morning we woke up early and headed to the convention center again for the first full day of Quilt Market. Lynn, Dave, and I spent the morning talking to shop owners.

I was paid a visit from Rinske Stevens, one of our international distributors.

Rachel Ashwell also stopped by our booth.

I spent a lot of time in meetings Saturday afternoon with distributors reviewing the newest fabrics collections. By the time I had finished my meetings on Saturday it was time for the Moda dinner. Lynn, Dave, and I all went and had a wonderful evening.

On Sunday when the traffic was a little slower at the convention center I made my way around to some of your favorite designers. My first stop was Anne Sutton of Bunny Hill Designs. Anne's newest pattern Merry, Merry Snowmen is one of our newest block of the month programs.

After I left Anne Sutton I headed on to The Quilt Company. Many of your favorite patterns are from The Quilt Company. Little Red Barns BOM, Cottage Charm, Lovebird Lane. Their newest pattern will be a Block Of the Month that we will offer as well, it is called Carrot Patch.

Here is a look at a new Block Of the Month that we will offer called Vintage Rouge, this program will start in May.

I stopped by and saw Marti Michell, she's the creator of the Perfect Patchwork Template Sets that many of you use when completing Patchwork Party.

I was also able to see Pearl Pearl P. Pereira who is the designer of the wonderful American Album blocks. Pearl had a finished blocks hanging in her booth that were so beautiful.

I found the most lovely ruffle fabric that we will start to carry in our shop soon. I also found three very beautiful quilts that we will start to offer as kits in the coming months.

It's time for me to go get ready for Quilt Festival. Lynn and Dave have already started preparations. Check back soon for more updates. Have a great week y'all!

Jen

October Giveaway Winners!

2011-11-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for participating in our October Giveaway! The winners of the quilted baby shoes from Curby's Closet are:

Sarah from Virginia

Mary on Lake Pulaski

Congratulations, ladies!

Our November Featured Designer and Giveaway will be up tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from Houston! Time really flew by this last weekend! I can't wait to share with you all the wonderful things I found, and introduce you to some of your favorite designers. Before I get to my weekend in Houston I wanted to share with you some photos the girls sent me today. The girls at the shop decided to dress up. Lynn, Dave, and I all wish we could be there to share in the fun. But since we can not be there, I thought it would be fun to introduce you to some of the girls that work behind the scenes.

First up is Heather, our Gladiator. In every sense of the word Heather is a Gladiator on the shop floor too. Heather cuts, folds, and is our main order filler.

Every month we receive compliments from our customers thanking us for how well our Block Of the Month programs are assembled. You can all thank "Spider Woman" Callie, she is the detail oriented girl who collates your BOM shipments.

And, I know what you are all thinking... where are the treats? Well, feast your eyes on the homemade treats that Heather brought for everyone below!

Have a safe and fun Halloween! I'll post pictures from the weekend tomorrow!
Treats only (no tricks!),
Jen

Four New BOMs!

2011-10-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

We have four new Block of the Month programs to share with you today. Each program has the option of a coordinated set of Kimono Silk Thread by Superior Threads. This is the absolute best thread available for hand applique. Enrollment fees are just $10! Sign up today.

Sweetheart Houses BOM

This 66" x 69" Shabby Fabrics Exclusive quilt features sweet little houses and cheerful hearts. Program runs for 10-months and begins in July. A 8-piece coordinated Silk Thread set is also available.

Sweetheart Houses BOM

Sweetheart Houses Silk Thread Set

Penelope's Garden BOM

Piecing and applique is combined in this 68" x 68" quilt. Program runs for 13-months & begins in July. A 4-piece coordinated Silk Thread set is also available.

Penelope's Garden BOM

Penelope's Garden Silk Thread Set

Merry, Merry Snowmen BOM

Lots of jolly snowmen celebrate the holidays in this fun quilt! Block of the Month program begins in February. A 4-piece coordinated Silk Thread set is also available.

Merry, Merry Snowmen BOM

Merry, Merry Snowmen Silk Thread Set

My Grandma's Garden BOM

This 51" x 51" quilt would make an excellent Mother's Day Gift! A 7-piece coordinated Silk Thread set is also available.

My Grandma's Garden BOM

My Grandma's Garden Silk Thread Set

Which is your favorite?

Houston: Day 1

2011-10-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Good Morning From Houston!

My husband Dave and I decided to walk to the Houston Convention Center this morning to stretch our legs after all of the flying that occurred yesterday. The sun is shining brightly in Houston and it is wonderful! We spoke with the girls at the Shop in Spokane, they told us the temperature dropped below freezing last night. Lynn can't wait to get out of the cold and join us tomorrow in the warmth for the show!

What a beautiful day to walk in downtown Houston!

This is the outside of the convention center.

It looks calm and quiet now, but that will change in less than 48 hours!

We have located our booth and are going to start putting things together!

Stay tuned to our blog and also make sure to follow us on Twitter for up the minute updates from International Quilt Market and Festival!

Warm and sunny regards from Houston,

Jen

Quilt Market & Festival Here We Come!

2011-10-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

We're at the airport anxiously awaiting to depart and begin our trip to Houston!

We made sure to pack everyone's favorite Shabby Fabrics Exclusive patterns and kits! Stop by our booth: 715, 717, and 719 to see all the goodies we brought!

Safe Travels,

Jen

Free Pattern Download!

2011-10-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

We are proud to be today's featured designer at the Celebrate Christmas Quilt-Along happening at the Quilting Gallery! This Quilt-Along is Christmas-themed, and 3 times a week for 12 weeks a new 12" x 12" block is featured. Our block is called O Christmas Tree, and is shown below.

This wonderful block features patchwork, applique, and (for that extra special sparkle!) hot-set glass jewels. Download the free pattern here.

Do you love this tree? We also have a table runner kit available featuring this block.

Designer Focus - Chris Anderson of Curby's Closet & Giveaway!

2011-10-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

Our Designer Focus this month is Chris Anderson of Curby's Closet! Chris is best known for her quilted baby shoe patterns - see them all on our website here. Curby's Closet had one of the most adorable websites we've ever seen! Take a look here.

Here is what Chris had to say about Curby's Closet:

I am a wife and mother who according to my sons “has always been selling or making something” their whole life. I am a big lover of vintage and Shabby Chic-style items as well as dolls, quilts, tea sets, English china and baby clothing. I have always been a pretty creative person and have enjoyed sewing and designing as an outlet for expressing myself, ever since I was a little girl making doll clothes for my baby dolls. I really enjoy planting flowers and gardening with my husband. I love to decorate our home, plan parties or design tablescapes for special family dinners. Inside or outside I seem to like to bring that comfortable, soft vintage feel into every thing I do.

For the past several years I have collected vintage baby clothes, mostly dresses as a little hobby. Being a mother of 2 boys I just loved how sweet and precious the dresses were. A couple of years ago my mother was given back a doll she had shared with her sister in the 1930’s, from a cousin of mine. Since I am the doll collector in the family, they both wanted me to have the doll. I thought this doll was so beautiful and was just amazed at the wonderful condition she was in and I wanted her to have authentic clothing from that time period. So I headed to Ebay to see what was available. After purchasing many pieces I realized that I had way too many clothes for this doll and that maybe I should sell the extra ones I didn’t need. I wanted them to be in the best condition I could, so I began restoring and refurbishing these precious little baby clothes. I also began shopping each weekend at estate and garage sales to find more wonderful and lovely gems. So began my little business of selling vintage baby clothes and that is how “Curby’s Closet” got started.

Then as my love and knowledge of vintage baby clothing grew, I got the idea to design and make my own baby shoes to go with them. My customers really wanted a complete outfit to purchase. I have always loved quilting and so I decided to make them from lovely, fun quilted fabrics. The baby shoes were quite a success and moms and babies seem to really love them!

Soon after that, I was encouraged by a friend and my sister to make the baby shoes into a pattern. Now any one can enjoy the thrill of making these easy, sweet little shoes for themselves. They are “Too cute to kick off!” We currently have 9 Quilted Shoe patterns available both for baby boys and baby girls, a Bug Bag Purse pattern for toddler girls and 2 darling quilt patterns designed by my sister Cindi Hatch. We are in over 300 quilt shops across the U.S., Canada, Australia, Great Britain and South Africa.

All this has been a very exciting and unexpected journey for me, but so very rewarding. My husband Roger and I work at it full time and we really do have fun! We get a kick out of seeing sweet little babies wearing our baby shoes or cuddled in one of our quilts! And it is so fun to hear customers tell us of how much fun they are having making them! So for us at Curby’s Closet… “Life is good!”

What does the future hold? Oh gosh! Who knows! This little business has taken so many twists and turns that I never dreamed of, but I do see many more years ahead of wonderful patterns, projects and new fun things for babies and of course, many more years associating with our wonderful friends at Shabby Fabrics!!

Thank you so much for being our guest, Chris!

You can view all of the Curby's Closet products we carry at our special Featured Designer category on our website.

Her newest design, Quilted Baby Ankle Strap, is now available!

GIVEAWAY!

We are having a giveaway in honor of Curby's Closet. Two lucky winners will receive each receive on of the pairs of quilted baby shoes, shown below. The Quilted Baby Ankle Strap is on the left, while the Quilted Baby High Top is shown on the right.

To enter, leave a comment below about this post. What do you like about Curby's Closet? Which baby shoe is your favorite? Enter until October 31st, 2011.

Patchwork Party is here!

2011-10-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Patchwork Party 2011 is here! If you're not familiar with Patchwork Party, it is an annual event where you purchase one block from each of 12 participating online shops, then choose your favorite finishing kit to put all of the blocks together into a quilt!

The block Shabby Fabrics is selling - Knight and Day - is shown above, as well as our Finishing Kit - Bountiful Harvest. This stunning quilt features an appliqued center block showing a cornucopia overflowing with autumn's bounty. If you love the look of this project, you'll also love the coordinating designs we've made, shown below.

Bountiful Harvest Wallhanging

Bountiful Harvest Table Runner

For more information, or to see which shops are participating, head on over to http://www.patchworkparty2011.com/.

Crabapple Hill Giveaway Winners!

2011-09-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

Today being the last day of September (can you believe it?!), I've randomly selected three of you to win the Vintage Postcard patterns autographed by Meg Hawkey of Crabapple Hill!

Congratulations to:

The Real Frannie

Barb from CT

Beth V. from TN

I've emailed each of you with a request for your mailing address so I can send along your prizes. Thank you so much to all who participated.!

Dolly Days BOM!

2011-09-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

Remember days gone by with this darling BOM! The Dolly Days heirloom quilt is the perfect gift for a daughter or granddaughter. This Block of the Month Program begins in February 2012 and ends in December 2012. Sign up today!

Which of the outfits is your favorite?

Poinsettias de Noel BOM - A Shabby Fabrics Exclusive!

2011-09-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Our newest Block of the Month design has an elegant holiday theme! Poinsettias de Noel is a 68" x 68" quilt featuring lots of piecing and an appliqued center block. Haven't done much applique? Pick up our Shabby Fabrics Applique Guide (just $3!) for step-by-step images and instructions for mastering spray-starch applique. Program begins November 19th - sign up today!

Poinsettias de Noel Block of the Month

A close-up of the center block.

We've used a variety of fabrics to make the poinsettias look as stunning as possible!

What do you like about this quilt?

Designer Focus - Meg Hawkey of Crabapple Hill Studio & Giveaway!

2011-09-08T16:49:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to kick off a new feature on our blog - Designer Focus. Each month we will feature a different designer for products we carry at Shabby Fabrics. You will learn a little more about them, see their products, and enter a giveaway to win something really great!

Our first designer is none other than Meg Hawkey of Crabapple Hill Studio. We LOVE opening our orders from Meg and seeing what adorable new things she has imagined! Here is a little about the background of her company:

I've always loved making things - it didn't matter if it was with fabric and thread, yarn, paper & pencil, paint, flower & sugar, wood, weeds...you get the picture! When I was young I would make fancy mudpies with dandelion fluff meringue, and hand-drawn paper dolls with a huge collection of fashionable clothes. As I got older my focus turned to crocheting lace by the yard, creating endless pen & ink sketches, and embroidering my clothes.

After my son graduated, I started working at a quilt shop making kits and decorating. I also did artwork for their newsletter which was a primitive style printed on newsprint - really fun! That artwork turned into embroidery patterns designed for the store. A few years later I took the plunge in getting my business license and selling my own patterns. I named the business Crabapple Hill Studio after the big crabapple tree on the hill behind our house when we lived in Cashmere, Washington. I used to spend hours sitting in that tree daydreaming (daydreaming is still my favorite "place" in the world!), drawing, and hand sewing doll clothes. What better name for my own business where I'd be doing pretty much the same thing?

Meg's studio - Is this the cutest place you've ever seen or what?

Every day brings something new. It's so great meeting people who are making my patterns, adding their own touches, using them in their homes, and wrapping the quilts around their children and grandchildren. It's really quite humbling to think that someone, somewhere is making something from a drawing that came from my imagination - my heart - and making it into an heirloom. I have to thank every single one of you! It's been a joy, so much fun, a constant re-learning experience, and the scariest thing I've ever undertaken. Who would have ever thought that anybody would actually like my doodles??

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

xoxo Meg

Meg is known for her delightful embroidery projects, and has recently designed a fabric collection for Lecien called Whitewash. We have created a special section on our website for the month of September filled with Meg's patterns and fabrics. Take a look at some of our favorites!

The Winter Wonderland Quilt features hand embroidery in red with a border of patchwork.

We have Fabric Kits and Patterns available for this project!

The Vintage Postcard pattern includes instructions to create a vintage-inspired postcard pillow complete with hand-embroidered postmarks and stamps! Love this pattern? Enter our giveaway below for a chance to win an autographed copy!

We've also put together kits for Heartfelt Wishes. This heart-shaped pillow is a large 19" across - great for your bed or favorite chair - and features patchwork detailed with embroidery.

Need some assistance with embroidery stitches? You can download two different embroidery stitch guides at Meg's website here.

Announcing the Embroidery Club!

Because we love embroidery (and we have a feeling you do, too!) we have created the Shabby Fabrics Embroidery Club! This Club will begin in January 2012 and will include one embroidery kit per month for six months. Three of the projects are from Crabapple Hill Studios! Click here for more information or to sign up.

GIVEAWAY!

What is your favorite Crabapple Hill project? What do you love about Meg's designs? Comment below for your chance to win one of three Vintage Postcard patterns autographed by Meg! Giveaway ends September 30th.

It's A Coupon Savings Weekend!

2011-09-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to get those special somethings you've been keeping an eye on! These coupon savings are on top of all of our sale prices. Coupon is valid until Monday midnight PST. One use per customer.

SALE KITS

SALE FABRICS

SALE PATTERNS & BOOKS

How will you use your savings?

Project Wednesday!

2011-08-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

We have a bit of a different sort of project to share with you today. Julia of North Dakota sent us some photos from a quilting retreat she recently attended. Part of the retreat included a block sharing event. Here is what Julia had to say about it:

"The Pure & Simple Block sharing event was a great success! We had two stacks of 27 - 12.5” blocks made using the Pure fabric line. Fabric was purchased from Shabby Fabrics. Each gal was provided with several cuts of seven different Pure fabrics and could make whatever kind of block they wanted. Then on Sunday morning, we drew a block from each stack, whoever made that block won that stack. It wasn’t until then that we got to see what the blocks looked like. There were a lot of talented gals at this retreat - the blocks were very nicely made and very pretty. The winners were delighted!"

There is so much variety in these blocks - some traditional, some contemporary! Which block is your favorite?

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

Two New Blocks of the Months at Shabby Fabrics - So Much Fun!

2011-08-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

When I saw these two pattern sets, I just couldn't resist! I plan to make these quilts right alongside you! Thank goodness for this wonderful hobby of quilting that we all love so much!

NEW! Quilted Village BOM

Program begins begins in November 2011. Sign up fee is just $10 to reserve your space. More Details

NEW! The Great Pumpkin BOM

Program begins begins in October 2011. Sign up fee is just $10 to reserve your space! More details

Project Wednesday!

2011-08-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

One thing that is so great about our customers is that they are diverse in their use of fabric! One example is Ginny from Missouri. Ginny creates all kinds of fun items out of vintage feed sacks, which she sells in her Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/ginnymae. And what does she find the linings for her feed sack purses? Shabby Fabrics, of course! The top two purses have linings from the Lakehouse Penelope collection, while the third is from Quilts of Valor. Great job, Ginny!

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

Garden Rose Collection by Rachel Ashwell for Treasures by Shabby Chic

2011-08-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Don't these fabrics make you say "aahhhhh"? Soft colors, roses, and delicate damasks combine in this beautiful collection by Rachel Ashwell for Treasures by Shabby Chic. These prints would make beautiful quilts, curtains, throw pillows, and more. The pastels are also great for baby. See the collection here.

The Pink FQ set combines pinks and greens for a feminine feel.

The beautiful neutrals of the Wedding FQ Set are pure elegance.

How about Lavender and Green? The Lavender FQ Set has it all.

Lastly, the Blue FQ Set feels like a cottage by the sea.

What do you love about this collection?

Project Wednesday!

2011-08-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Are you enjoying our customer projects?

This week I am featuring a sweet little project from Linda.

She says "This is a neat little 16" square red and white wall hanging. It is all machine pieced and quilted with the little bird hand-embroidered. I used Lakehouse Red Dot, Bella Solid Whites, and Scraps of other reds and DMC # 321 Floss. Such a fun project to do!"

It's darling, Linda! Thanks so much for sharing.

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

Blessings of Summer Giveaway Winners!

2011-08-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

Announcing the winners of our Blessings of Summer Giveaway! The three randomly-selected winners are:

Donna from Florida - winner of a $50 gift certificate

Sheila F. - winner of a $50 gift certificate

Sherry from Illinois - winner of a $100 gift certificate

Congratulations, ladies! I have emailed you instructions for redeeming your gift certificates.

Thank you to all who participated! We will have another giveaway starting in September, so stay tuned.

New Blocks From Pearl P. Pereira

2011-08-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the American Album Blocks I blogged about several weeks ago (here)? The designer, Pearl P. Pereira of P3 Designs has just released the next two blocks in the series: Maryland and Indiana.

Maryland

Indiana

Aren't these great? See all of the blocks here. Two more blocks will be released soon! Which is your favorite? What would you do with these blocks? If you've completed one or more from this series, we'd LOVE to see your photos! Email them to julie@shabbyfabrics.com.

Project Wednesday! (one day late...)

2011-08-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today we have some darling projects made by Margarita of Puerto Rico using fabrics from the Lakehouse Fun Flowers collection. Here is what Margarita had to say about her designs:

"I am not a sewer per se. I worked for 26 years in a pharmaceutical company and my department closed in 2008. My sister has a sewing studio in Puerto Rico and she told me to help her out at the store as a part time job. I reminded her I was not good sewing, so I started managing the newsletter of the store and then helped the clients to install their software for their embroidery machines. Then I helped giving free demonstrations to the clients of some of the products we sell at the store. Then I started making some of my creations and I gave free tutorials of them as well.

The pincushion bracelet and the butterfly are my creations."

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

We're Having A Sale!

2011-08-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

You heard that right - we're having a Summer Sale! We have recently marked down dozens of fabric collections, nearly 100 patterns, and dozens of kits 20%-50%! Check them out using the links below:

Sale Fabrics

Sale Kits

Sale Patterns & Books

What are you most excited to buy now that it is marked down?

Project Wednesday!

2011-08-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

Today's customer project comes all the way from France! Penelope Goldsmith created this stunning quilt from the Lakehouse Tea Time collection. The most interesting part? It was entirely hand-stitched and hand-quilted. Great job, Penelope!

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

Blessings of Summer Pattern and Embellishing Kit

2011-08-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce that the Blessings of Summer Pattern Set is now ready!

And don't forget to add the Blessings of Summer Embellishing Kit for all of the buttons and other items used in the original quilt.

Love the original fabrics? We still have space availble in our Blessings of Summer Block of the Month program. Sign up today!

July Giveaway Winners

2011-08-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Apparently our forum format for the July Giveaway was a big hit! Hopefully you were able to learn some new things and perhaps even answer someone's question. Our three randomly selected winners are:

Pam from Dover, PA (#13)

Deb S. (#4)

D. Allen (#63)

A big thank you to all who participated. How did you like the forum format? Would you want to do it again?

Be sure to enter the Blessings of Summer Giveaway and Coupon Offer which is going through August 15th!

Project Wednesday!

2011-07-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

It is Project Wednesday here at The Shabby! Today we are featuring a customer project. Marilyn Perry created this colorful quilt for her granddaughter's 11th birthday! Marilyn used fabrics from the Lakehouse Fun Flowers collection. Here is what Marilyn had to say about the project:

The design of the quilt was based on a quilt in the 2010 quilt calendar by That Patchwork Place, designed by Cynthia Tomaszewski. I redesigned the hearts so that I could digitize them in my Bernina software for machine applique. I also digitized her initials from Bernina software. The embroidered flowers and butterflies are from Amazing Designs.

The design used Bernina Version 6 software. The sewing was done on a Bernina 830 and 240. The quilting was done on an HQ16 mid arm machine.

I really had fun doing the project and your fabrics worked out perfectly!

Thank you so much for sharing, Marilyn!

We'd love to see YOUR projects using your purchases from Shabby Fabrics! Email photos and a brief description to julie@shabbyfabrics.com

All submissions will be entered to win one of two gift baskets filled with fabrics, patterns, and more!

Introducing The Apron Lady!

2011-07-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

When I was in Salt Lake City for the wholesale show in May, I met Jan Lutz, otherwise known as The Apron Lady! Jan creates beautiful patterns and is known most especially for her apron designs.

Jan and Jen in Salt Lake City

We are happy to carry quite a few of Jan's designs. Take a look below:

Suzy Swirl includes instructions for three different projects: skirt, leggings, and a fun tutu!

The Honeycomb Smocked Apron includes instructions for an easy smocking technique!

Get ready for a tea party with these darling aprons!

A great apron for your little girl - Child's Honeycomb Apron.

The Hoot Owl Apron pattern is four projects in one!

Which is your favorite?

The Blessings of Summer Quilt is Finished!

2011-07-18T16:59:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that our Blessings of Summer Quilt is finished! We've spent more hours on this quilt - designing, contemplating, redesigning, appliqueing, piecing, quilting, embellishing - than almost every other quilt designed by Shabby Fabrics. What does that mean for you? Why it is nearly perfect! Just see for yourself.....

Blessings of Summer Quilt

You may remember Pearl the Dove from our Blessings of Spring quilt. Here she is again complete with her beautiful trademark necklace!

Ice cream and strawberries? Yes please! The strawberry tops are made of wool felt for added texture.

This darling little cottage block features a white picket fence, gingerbread trim, a kite in the sky, and two miniature quilts hanging on the line!

A close-up of the miniature quilts - these are actually pieced!

These pinwheels are 3-dimensional - and don't miss that ladybug!

Ahhhh, sunflowers!

You have to smile at this little red wagon filled with daisies!

A little sailboat enjoys a sunny day on the water.

This block may be the simplest, but it is far from being the least important!

Have we piqued your interest enough yet? Full patterns and embellishing kits will be available within the next couple of weeks. We still have spots available in our Blesssings of Summer Block of the Month program which begins in August. Use Coupon Code SHABBYSUMMER5 for $5 off your sign up fee! Coupon code only valid for the Blessings of Summer Sign Up Fee and expires August 15th.

Which is your favorite block?
How does it remind you of summers past?

Answer for your chance to win one of three excellent prizes:

One winner will receive a $100 gift certificate

Two winners will each receive a $50 gift certificate

Don't have an account? Use the "anonymous" option or the "Name/URL" option. Just be sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

Christmas in July Sale!

2011-07-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

Enter our Christmas Shoppe here.

July Giveaway!

2011-07-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

For our July Giveaway, we'll be doing something a bit different. Instead of having a question for you to answer, we want to create a forum-type atmosphere where you can ask and answer questions pertaining to sewing and quilting!

For instance, perhaps you want to ask others about how they organize their projects or how they master Y-seams.

Every comment (whether a question or a response) will be entered into our giveaway. Three lucky winners will receive $25 Gift Certificates to http://www.shabbyfabrics.com/!

If you do not have an account, you may choose the "anonymous" option - just remember to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win.

Here are a few questions from our Facebook page to get you started:

Carol asks "Are most quilts machine quilted these days or is there a swing toward traditional quilting?"

Debra asks "My quilting question is how do some sit all day and quilt? Any special chair tips?"

Please note that responses are not endorsed by Shabby Fabrics.

You asked for it - free-motion quilting and applique resources!

2011-07-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

You asked and we delivered! An overwhelming majority of the answers to our June Giveaway Question pertained to free-motion machine quilting and applique techniques. I have searched high and low for some great resources, and am happy to share these with you today!

Free-Motion Machine Quilting Book

This book is an excellent resource! Containing methods and techniques, a troubleshooting guide, and over fifty designs, this is a great book to keep on hand.

Free-Motion Machine Quilting Class For Newbies DVD

For a bit more assistance, watch this instructional DVD!

Shabby Fabrics Applique Guide

Our very own step-by-step photo guide to spray-starch applique! At just $3, you can buy one for all of your friends!

Applique Techniques with Pearl P. Pereira DVD

Follow along with Pearl as she shows her own technique.

Applique Workshop Book

This book is the equivalent to a multi-day workshop! Contains ten applique techniques and projects for learning each.

I hope these books and DVDs are helpful for you. For even more reference material, check out our newest Patterns & Books category: Reference & How-To.

Thank you to everyone who responded. It is great to know what you want to learn! Our three randomly selected winners are:

Patty D.

Sue

Diane H.

Congratulations, ladies, you have each won a $25 gift certificate. Check your inbox for details!

American Album Block Series!

2011-06-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Take a look at these BEAUTIFUL applique blocks by Pearl P. Pereira!

New York

Each pattern is only $6!

Which is your favorite? How would you use these?

Shabby Fabrics Bulk Specials!

2011-06-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

If you love fabric like we do, a few yards is never enough! We have created a Bulk Specials category so you can save money when ordering large quantities of fabric. Save 10% when you order at least 10 yards, and save 15% when you order at least 15 yards. What a great deal!

We are offering this special deal on the following fabrics:

See them all here.

Which one is your favorite? How would you use it?

Before you know it- it will be time for our HOLIDAYS

2011-06-21T23:26:00.000-07:00

And I am not talking summer holidays,

I am talking Christmas holidays.

Does this not put you into the mood?

All that red...

Are you thinking of stitching up some quilted patterns

for the Holidays? Have you seen these?

These are all complete KITS...

Which one would you like to do first?

Holiday Stocking

and look at the ruffle!

Enchanted Holiday Tree Skirt

more ruffles and buttons

Enchanted holiday, table runner

Can you say Festive? I think I can.
This is putting me in the mood.

Have you started any Christmas Holiday stitching yet?

Blessings Jennifer

When I think of Strawberries-

2011-06-20T01:05:00.000-07:00

I think of

Strawberry Fields

Here are some yardage from

this sweet collection by Fig Tree.

If you love strawberries, this collection is one

that will certainly find a place in your stash.

We now have plenty of yardage for your summer projects.

Here are just some photos of this very summery collection.

Can you imagine, what beautiful quilts you can make from

this?

We still have these 38 fat quarter bundles

This booklet has 12 patterns. Strawberry Fields is a thought!

for some of these patterns.

Have you falling for this , what were you thinking

of making with this lovely collection?

Blessings Jennifer

Blessings of Summer!

2011-06-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce the newest design in The Blessings Series^TM - The Blessings of Summer!

Miniature quilts hang on a line with tiny clothespins!

Beautiful sunflowers use both batiks and printed cottons to create depth and interest.

A classic red wagon is filled with flowers - how charming!

This quilt is so darling you will smile again and again! We are offering a Block of the Month program which begins in August and runs for 10 months. Join us today!

When I grow " UP" I want to be a Princess-WAIT-

2011-06-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Princess Tea Party Kit

I am grown up, but it still does not stop me from

wanting to create pretty things.

Like these new Quilt Kits,

which one do you like more?

Sugar Kisses Kit

Have you noted the fabrics that can also be selected

for a variety of other projects for you..

I am pretty partial to PINK, as you know

but will you also look at these fat quarter bundles..

Tea Cakes in 'blues"

Is this your favorite?

Tea Cakes in Vanilla and Yellow

Or this one?

Tea Cakes in Raspberry

You know it will be mine? Is it yours?

Tea Cakes in Jades and Green

Or are you partial to greens?

Do you have a Princess story to share-

about one of your daughters, nieces or grandaughters?

Blessings Jennifer

Do you have a little girl in your life?

2011-06-06T23:53:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these patterns ?

Retro Baby!

If you love ruffles, you will love these.

Brooklyn's Dresses

3 looks in one pattern !

This one is called So High

With all the wonderful summer designs, surely

your biggest challenge will be, what color shall you make this?

Vintage Jane with 2 unique looks

8 Fat quarters to assist you in some color blends

25 Fat quarters from Moda...you can never go wrong with dots!

Do you make sun dresses for your daughters or granddaughters?

Which one of these do you like best?

Blessings,
Jennifer

New Buttons from Riley Blake!

2011-06-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

We have just received some darling new buttons from Riley Blake!

1" Red Flower Buttons

1 1/2" Red Flower Buttons

2" Red Flower Buttons

How would you use these buttons? What other colors or styles would you like to see?

Strawberries anyone?

2011-06-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

To wet your appetite why not join me in preparing this simple

dessert. All you will need is 3 ingredients:

some yogurt, some honey, and some fresh picked strawberries!

Strawberry a la Carte

Ingredients

1 pint of plain vanilla yogurt

1/4 cup of honey

1 pint of fresh picked strawberries

some mint sprigs

HOW TO:

Mix honey with yogurt in a large glass bowl.

Pour 3/4 cup of yogurt mixture into a soup bowl

and place your fresh washed strawberries on top like I have them here.

Add your mint as the stem of your strawberries.

Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen!

And to put you in the mood further, let's see what Lakehouse.

@ Annies Farm Stand has today...

Oh look, a red set the color of strawberries...

Here are 8 fat quarters, we still have a few left

here These are so fresh they smell sweet...

12 fat quarters fresh as cream

These would go well with the Red Set above.

And if cherries are more your fancy..

how about this Cherry Baby Quilt?

Sweet isn't it?

details for this pattern can be found here!

Can I interest you in some lemonade to go with that

strawberry dessert...?

Another exclusive KIT from Shabby Fabrics

What color of fruit is your inspiration this season?

What color quilt will you be making this summer.?

Blessings,

Jennifer

Our May Giveaway Winners and June Giveaway Question!

2011-06-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who participated in our May Giveaway. It looks as though our readers have a wide variety of interests but all were able to find (at least!) one favorite collection or kit from our store.

Our randomly selected winners.....

Congratulations to Sherrill who wants the American Valor fabrics!

Congratulations to Sallie who is a fan of Lily & Will!

Congratulations to Bea who loves the Buttercup collection!

You have each won a $25 gift certificate to http://www.shabbyfabrics.com/! Check your email for information.

Our June Giveaway Question

What sewing, quilting, applique, or embroidery technique would you love to learn? Or, what is a technique you can't live without?

Three randomly selected winners will each receive a $25 gift certificate to our store. Remember to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

Spring into this Kit!

2011-05-31T06:57:00.000-07:00

Ah, the Blessings of Spring

seems befitting a name for

this exclusive kit.
It has everything that shouts SPRING:

lady bugs, tulips, daisies, a birdhouse, a gardening angel, an umbrella

(I bet you have been using yours a lot this season) ...

We have kits available which include the patterns, all of the top fabrics,

borders, binding, and an 80-piece embellishment kit.

The Blessings of Spring Block of the Month program is now full - thank you to everyone who is participating!

What Block of the Month programs have you done in the past? Is there one

you are considering for the near future?

Blessings,
Jennifer

New from The Vintage Spool...

2011-05-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

Verna Mosquera of The Vintage Spool is known for her colorful and detailed applique quilt patterns. She has just designed a fabric collection called Tea Cakes, which we are expecting to arrive within the next week!

I had the opportunity to stop by Verna's booth at the recent International Quilt Market.

Take a look at some of her new patterns!

Sweet Treat Pincushion

Pillow Parade Pattern

Raspberry Parfait Pattern

Princess Tea Party full kit will be available by

mid June. Pattern is available now.

Sugar Kisses kit will be available

by mid June. Pattern is available now.

Which one sweetens your palette?

Blessings,
Jennifer

It's not too early to be thinking about Christmas!

2011-05-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Introducing

Holly & Berries Tree Skirt,

another Shabby Fabrics Exclusive.

( pattern can be found on link above)

Around here, we are already thinking Christmas season.

Do you have plans to make a quilted TREE SKIRT?

Take a closer look, I added some festive giant ric-rac and red

buttons to mimic a holly berry tree.

There are 8 scalloped quilted panels and candy cane sashing,

that can be stitched up in a weekend. (Ok, maybe many weekends!)

But if you start now, you will be sure to have it completed

for the holiday season.

This tree skirt measures 45" in diameter.

What do you put under your tree, is it wearing any skirt?

What does it look like?

Blessings, Jennifer

Winner Announced from Stash Manicure !

2011-05-19T23:56:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday I was a guest here - Stash Manicure

Carol #70 from Glendale Arizona

is the winner of the following.

Congratulations!

Carol won this set of layer cakes from Moda! it includes: Collections for a Cause: Faith by Howard Marcus, Lil' Rascals by Chloe's Closet, and Northern Cardinal by Holly Taylor - over $100 value!

To all those who left lovely messages and became new followers, thank you so much!

Blessings to all,
Jen

Count On It Club!

2011-05-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for quick and easy projects that will keep you going throughout the year? Look no further than our Count On It Club! This Club will provide you with the patterns and fabrics to create twelve banners - one for every month! Sign up fee is just $5, then each month costs $22 for US customers and $27 for international customers - shipping included. Program begins in July. Sign up here.

International Quilt Market!

2011-05-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

Lynn, Dave, and I just returned from International Quilt Market in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was a whirlwind weekend of wholesale buying and selling. This was our first time to be selling our patterns at the show, and I think we made a great first impression! Everyone loved our Blessings of Spring quilt, and are eagerly awaiting the debut of the next quilt in The Blessings Series. (Keep your eyes open!)

Here are some photos from the show:

The expo center at the beginning of set up.

Our booth!

We had all of our quilts on the walls, patterns on the shelves, soft lighting and cozy flooring for the ultimate comfy feeling!

Here I am with Deb Luttrell of Stitchin' Heaven.

Holly Holderman, the designer of Lakehouse fabrics, also stopped by.

Nireko from Lecien was able to take a look at our booth.

I look forward to sharing with you in the coming months all of the new fabrics and patterns I purchased while there. Stay tuned!

April Winners and May Giveaway Question!

2011-05-10T16:53:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our April Giveaway Winners:

Annie

Dawnie

Jennifer

You have each won a $25 gift certificate towards purchases at Shabby Fabrics! You have been sent an email with your gift certificate code.

Our May Giveaway Question:

What is your favorite collection or kit on the Shabby Fabrics website and why?

Leave a comment below for your chance to win one of three $25 gift certificates! Remember, if you don't leave your email address (or if your profile doesn't have a link to your email) I can't contact you in case you win.

Wreath of Spring Kit!

2011-04-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to try a watercolor quilt but didn't know where to start? Our Wreath of Spring Kit is a great option!

This beautiful quilt features the colors of spring as well as lots of flowers! A rose wreath in the center is the focal point, with several borders to add drama. This quilt is featured in the May/June 2011 issue of McCall's Quilting.

A Shabby Fabrics Exclusive!

March Giveaway Winners and April Giveaway Question!

2011-04-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the winners of our March Giveaway:

Elena

NanainCA

Jerry50

You have each won a $25 gift certificate to Shabby Fabrics. I have emailed you with instructions.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

With Easter fast approaching, our April Giveaway Question is....

What is your favorite part about Easter? Do you have any family traditions? How will you spend Easter this year?

Three randomly selected winners will receive $25 gift certificates to http://www.shabbyfabrics.com/!

Think Spring!

2011-03-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

Spring has been teasing us for awhile here in the Northwest. One week it will feel like warmer days are just around the corner, and the next week we get snow - and lots of it! After a long winter we are all looking forward to sunny skies, soft breezes, and blooming flowers. We are also looking forward to new projects - a Spring Cleaning of sorts for our sewing stashes!

Our March Giveaway Question is:

What projects do you have planned for this Spring?

Here's what some of us have to say....

Lynn is planning to create her second-ever quilt using our Stars in the Garden Kit - a perfect quilt for spring!

Julie wants to finish several of her Works in Progress, including a batik quilt and her first applique quilt.

Bethany is a soon-to-be teacher and will be adding to her "teacher wardrobe" with a variety of sewing projects.

Jennifer has more Block of the Month quilts planned - stay tuned!

Leave a comment for your chance to win a $25 Gift Certificate to Shabby Fabrics! If you don't have an account, choose the "anonymous" option - but remember to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

Our February Giveaway Winners are:

DebrafromMD

Sewali

Stitched with Prayer

Congratulations! You have each won Scarborough Fair pre-cuts. I have sent you each an email with instructions.

Blessings of Spring Block of the Month

2011-02-25T17:24:00.000-08:00

We are so excited about the first Shabby Fabrics Block of the Month!

This exclusive design was created by Jennifer Bosworth and features all of the Blessings of Spring: tulips, daisies, ladybugs, a birdhouse, a gardening angel, and more! Each block features both piecing and applique. The Blessings of Spring Block of the Month begins in May and will run 10 months, ending in February 2012. Sign up fee is $10 to reserve your spot, then only $28 per month plus shipping. Each shipment will include pattern, fabric, and embellishments for that month's block. Borders and binding will be part of the last month's shipment. This BOM features over 80 embellishments! Finished size of this quilt is 56" x 62". Program and Sign up fee are non cancellable. Add the backing fabric when you sign up for only $38!

Join us today!

January Giveaway Winners and February Question!

2011-02-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our randomly selected January Giveaway Winners!

They are:

Lee

Sherry

Rx Quilter

You will each receive a $25 Gift Certificate. Thank you to all who participated!

------------------------------------------------------------------

Moving on to our February Giveaway Question:

What do you love?

Besides loving God, family, and friends, we at Shabby Fabrics love:

"Chocolate! Laughing, sewing, and the freedom to live where we want and have the job we want." - Jennifer

"Making meals and goodies for family and friends, New York City, making people laugh, and spending time with my nephews." - Julie

"Not having to make dinner, the Green Bay Packers, Huckleberry Bars, and sitting in the hot tub on a cold day." - Lynn

"Delivering the mail at 2:30 every day." - Pal

This month's winners will receive pre-cuts from the Scarborough Fair collection by Robyn Pandolph. Prizes are: a Cream Fat Quarter Set, 2 Charm Packs, and a Twice the Charm Roll.

If you don't have an account, choose the "anonymous" option, but make sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

Our Newest Shabby Fabrics Exclusive...

2011-01-25T09:05:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is coming up quickly and now is the time to get started on projects if you haven't already. Check out our newest design, the Patchwork Valentine Table Runner, for a quick and easy project! This table runner features four patchwork hearts detailed with doilies made of wool felt - simply darling! We have kits and patterns available.

Black Beauty

2011-01-17T14:36:00.000-08:00

If you like the look of our 2010 Patchwork Party Finishing Kit, you'll love Black Beauty!

Jet black, gorgeous florals, and rich colors combine for a spectacular result! This stunning queen size quilt may look difficult, but is actually made using simple piecing. Kit includes all top fabrics including borders and binding. Finished size is 85" x 102".

The pattern for this quilt is featured in the March/April 2011 issue of McCall's Quilting.

Purchase your kit today!

January Giveaway Question!

2010-12-29T16:29:00.000-08:00

The year 2010 is nearly behind us - can you believe it? That means January is on the horizon, and with it the January Giveaway Question!

Our question this month is:

What is your New Year's quilting or sewing resolution?

Perhaps there are specific projects you want to start (or finish!), techniques to learn, quilting retreats to attend, guilds to join, sewing rooms to organize, or scraps to use up. Tell us about it! Leave your comments below. And remember, if you don't have an account, choose the "anonymous" option, but be sure to leave your email address if you want to be entered in the drawing!

Three randomly-selected winners will win gift certificates to Shabby Fabrics!

I will leave you with this blessing for 2011:

A Quilter’s Blessing: May your rotary cutter always be sharp, may your seams be straight and true, may your points be perfect, your blocks square and even, and may you always see well enough to thread your needles! - Anonymous

December Giveaway Winners!

2010-12-27T14:08:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a marvelous Christmas!

A big thank you to everyone who responded to our December Giveaway Question. It was fun to read all of your entries - it is always fun to hear how others celebrate the season!

Our three randomly-chosen winners are:

MishMish

Patchwork and Play

Mystica

Congratulations! I have already sent you each an email regarding your prizes!

Ornament of the Month Club!

2010-12-23T17:09:00.000-08:00

Our Pincushion Club was such a hit, we've decided to create an Ornament Club! Sign up for $5, and for each month of 2011 starting in January, you will be billed just $16 and mailed a kit to make one of these adorable ornaments! FREE SHIPPING ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD!!

I think they look as delicious as little cookies! Each kit includes pattern, pre-printed and pre-colored fabric, backing, and batting. For an additional $15 you can purchase an embroidery floss set that will last you throughout the program. In addition, members will receive a special 13th ornament kit free, which will ship next December along with - what else - the Santa Claus ornament!

This program is a great way to get a little project done each month. Very little sewing is necessary, the majority of the work is embroidery. These ornaments make wonderful gifts - consider getting multiple sets and make the ornaments for your children or grandchildren as family heirlooms!

Each ornament has a unique variety of embroidery and most include button embellishements, which will be included in the kit.

Join us today!

Announcing Our Pincushion Club!

2010-12-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

You may not think there is much to say about pincushions, but indeed there is! Aside from being handy ways to store pins and needles without poking a finger, pincushions are a great way to add some personality or holiday decor to your sewing area. Their small size means they are easy to store, so why not have a variety? These make great gifts for all of your sewing and quilting friends, too! Shabby Fabrics will help you create a variety of pincushions through our Pincushion Club! Sign up for $5, and each month in 2011 starting in late January we will send you a pincushion kit - everything will be included but the filling! Recurring billing is $28 per month plus shipping, which is $2 off the kit price when sold separately. In addition, members of the Pincushion Club will receive a complimentary 13th pincushion kit designed by Shabby Fabrics and available exclusively to members of the club. Join us today!

Upcoming pincushions will be:

January - Love Pinwheel Pasty kit makes 1 pincushion

February - Frosted Cupcake kit makes 3 pincushions

March - Bitty Bunny kit makes 1 pincushion

April - Picked Daily kit makes 3 pincushions

May - Dec ... to be announced

Fast Flowers - Free Pattern!

2010-12-13T10:20:00.000-08:00

Bright colors and big flowers are the theme for this quick and easy project which uses panels for the flowers. The pattern is free and we have a kit available! Fabrics are from the Fun Flowers collection by Lakehouse Dry Goods. A great project for girls of all ages! For every kit sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Humane Society of the United States.

Snowbound is Revealed!

2010-12-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

This adorable quilt is by Anne Sutton of Bunny Hill Designs - and has been revealed block by block over the last year. Now you can finally see the quilt in its entirety! If you didn't join our Snowbound Block of the Month but are interested in creating this quilt with the fabrics shown (from the Martinique and Rural Jardin collections), we have the Snowbound Full Kit available!

The kit includes the exact fabrics as shown to make all the snowmen and Irish chain blocks, inner and outer borders including stars. Binding, embellishments and embroidery floss are also included. Please note we are using felted wool for the snowmen instead of white fabric. Each block finishes at 9" square with a total finished size of 55" x 55". We have discounted this kit just in time for Christmas! There is also free shipping on this kit to U.S. addresses.

November Giveaway Winners and December Question

2010-11-29T11:48:00.000-08:00

Yum, yum, YUM!! All of the recipes shared and foods mentioned for our November Giveaway sure looked tasty! Isn't it a good thing we can't gain calories by reading about food? :) Thank you so much to everyone who participated. I have chosen at random - there is no way I'm going to try to pick a winning recipe! - three winners. They are....

Pippirose

Mary

Stitched With Prayer

Congratulations! You have each won a $25 gift certificate to Shabby Fabrics. I have already sent an email with redemption details.

On to December's Giveaway Question....

Tell us about a Christmas tradition you keep, a cherished Christmas memory, or your favorite part about the Christmas season.

Remember, even if you don't have a blogspot account, you can still comment by using the "anonymous" option. Just don't forget to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

One lucky winner for December will receive a Colorful Christmas FQ Bundle! This set of 24 fat quarters from Riley Blake is adorable, featuring penguins and snowmen, mittens, cups of hot cocoa, snowflakes, trees, and more!

Our other two December winners will each receive a $25 gift certificate - some Christmas shopping for yourself, perhaps?? Speaking of which, now is the time to drop some hints to your friends and family members that all you want for Christmas is Shabby Fabrics! Gift Certificates are available in a variety of amounts and are sure to bring lots of smiles.

November Giveaway Question!!

2010-11-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

I have something exciting to share with you! It is now easier than ever to leave a comment here at The Shabby - which means it is easier than ever for you to enter our monthly giveaways!!! You no longer need a special ID to post comments. Just choose the "Anonymous" option in the drop-down box. But don't forget to leave a name and/or email address so we can contact you if you win!

Our November Giveaway Question is.........

What is your favorite holiday dish or snack?

Feel free to leave the recipe so we can all enjoy your favorite goodie! Three randomly chosen entries will win $25 gift certificates to our shop!

To engage your mind (and your stomach), I have included a recipe which is always well-received:

Peanut Butter Cup Bars

3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

2 cups confectioners sugar

1 1/4 cup peanut butter, divided

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Mix the butter, graham cracker crumbs, confectioners sugar, and 1 cup peanut butter until well blended. Press into the bottom of a greased 9" x 13" pan. Melt the chocolate chips and remaining peanut butter in a double boiler or the microwave. Spread evenly over graham cracker mixture. Refrigerate until solid (at least 1 hour). Cut into squares and enjoy!

QuiltAid USA 2010

2010-11-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

We are excited to have been invited to participate in QuiltAid USA 2010! QuiltAid USA supports not one but two great causes! The fabrics come from the “Collection for a Cause - Hope” by Howard Marcus for Moda Fabrics. Purchase of these fabrics supports The ALS Association, whose vision is “to care for and support all people living with Lou Gehrig’s Disease as we leave no stone unturned in our relentless search for a cure”.

In addition, funds raised from QuiltAid 2010 will be donated to the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital in Ethiopia. The Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital is dedicated to the treatment and care of women who suffer horrendous childbirth injuries, known as obstetric fistula. The Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital relies entirely on donations from overseas to fund its vital work of improving maternal health, reducing infant mortality and empowering women.

How Does QuiltAid USA work?

Similar to Patchwork Party, QuiltAid USA is an opportunity to visit multiple shops to create a finished quilt! There are a total of twelve blocks, each designed by well-known Australian and U.S. designers. Only six shops have been chosen to sell these blocks - two blocks for each shop. In addition, each shop has created a unique finishing kit using the blocks.

The blocks we are selling: Bless My Home by Helen Stubbings (left) and Home to Bunnyhill by Anne Sutton (right).

Our Finishing Kit (below) features pillars and posts, pinwheels, and a center block featuring our signature Little Garden House with the verse "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15"

A close-up of our center block. We also have an Oops Kit and Presencia Perle Cotton 8-color embroidery set available to finish your project! You can find everything we have available in our special website category QuiltAid USA 2010.

October Giveaway Winners!

2010-10-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

Our October Giveaway Question was "What is your best quilting tip?"

Thirty of you responded with a variety of wonderful tips, tricks, and ideas. What a great way to share our knowledge!

The three winners, picked at random from the entries, are:

Sue

Mimi

Lpnjam

who have each won a $25 gift certificate to Shabby Fabrics!

Thank you all for participating and congratulations to the winners.

Our November question is sure to make your mouth water...check back next week!

The Night Before Christmas....

2010-10-12T13:40:00.000-07:00

Remember the old poem "Twas the Night Before Christmas"? Our newest Block of the Month is a soft and quilted version of that festive rhyme! Using French General's La Petite Ecole collection, Anne Sutton has created a beautiful design with a timeless feel. The sign up fee is just $10, and each month you will receive pattern and fabrics to complete one block. Borders and binding fabrics will arrive at the end of the program, and we are one of the few shops that include embroidery floss and embellishments to finish your quilt! Program runs January-October 2011, giving you enough time to finish the quilt for Christmas next year. Sign up today!

October Giveaway Question!

2010-10-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe October is here already! The weather is still nice and the leaves have yet to start falling, but autumn is surely around the corner. Today being the first of the month, that means it is time to start another giveaway. Our question for October is:

What is your best quilting tip?

For those of you have been quilting for years, this is your chance to pass along some of your expertise. Beginners, too, are more than welcome to share what you've done that has made quilting easier. Perhaps it is something you've come up with, or maybe it has been passed down through generations. This could be about technique, efficiency, time management, organization - the possibilities are endless. Near the end of the month three people will win $25 gift certificates.

I look forward to reading your entries!

Newest Mary Rose Fabrics

2010-09-23T16:35:00.000-07:00

As a quilt shop that started with shabby and chic fabrics, the Mary Rose collections from Quilt Gate have a special place at Shabby Fabrics! Full of roses and florals, shades of pink, cream, and lavender, and everything romantic, Mary Rose is a great place to start for many of your projects. The newest collection, Bella, does not disappoint, with gorgeous toiles...

...romantic rose florals...

...and even three jacquards!

As always, if you can't decide where to begin, a Fat Quarter Set is a great option!

Congratulations to Our September Giveaway Winners!

2010-09-22T13:41:00.000-07:00

Our giveaway question for September was How did you learn to quilt? We received some wonderful stories and it is always fun to hear how many of us were inspired or taught by our mothers and grandmothers! It was also interesting to hear that a majority of you learned from Alex Anderson tutorials. Did you know we carry an Alex Anderson DVD? It would make a great gift for the soon-to-be quilter in your life!

Our winners for September are:

Marcia

Sandy

ScottyLover

These ladies have each won a $25 gift certificate to http://www.shabbyfabrics.com/.

We will post our next giveaway question in early October, so check back frequently!

Shabby Fabrics Exclusive Christmas Designs!

2010-09-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Can you believe there are fewer than 100 days until Christmas? I have just completed designing a third coordinating Christmas design using the Fancy Hill Farm fabric collection by Robyn Pandolph for RJR Fabrics. Now you can be well on your way to a festive holiday season!

The Little Garden House in Winter is a wallhanging featuring a giant Christmas tree complete with gift-wrapped presents and lots of ornaments. A line of ric rac and holly across the top adds extra charm and ties right in with the brand new Holly & Berries Tree Skirt.

This 8-paneled skirt is simple yet elegant and will be right at home under your Christmas tree!

Everyone knows you can't leave out the dining room when decorating, and the Holly & Berries Table Runner is a perfect addition to any holiday meal. This quick and easy project uses charm squares and fusible applique.

Now is the perfect time to get started on these projects so they can be ready in time to usher in the Christmas spirit!

Happy Sewing!

August Giveaway Winners and Giveaway Question for September!

2010-08-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

We at Shabby Fabrics have really enjoyed reading all of your comments about your sewing machines! Because we had such a good response, I have decided to have 3 gift certificate winners instead of just one. The winners are....

-Donna K.

-Goosegirl

-Ledamewood

Congratulations! You should have each received an email with your gift certificate information.

Now on to our question for September:

How did you learn to quilt? What was your first project? Have you taught anyone else how to quilt?

Here are a few stories from the Shabby Fabrics staff:

Julie: My mom taught me to quilt one summer when I was 8 or 9 and my first project was making a doll quilt out of charm squares. I was so proud of it I entered it in the county fair, but didn't notice until weeks after the fair that I had forgotton to finish tying it - which may explain the third premium ribbon! My next quilting project came a few years later when I found an Around the World pattern that I wanted to try. I was rather ambitious and decided to make it full-size and in a different colorway. As my second-ever quilting project it took me ten years to finish, but I had that quilt on my bed for years afterward!

Lynn: I learned to quilt from a roommate when I was in my early twenties. I didn't have a sewing machine, so I sewed and quilted by hand. My first project was a baby quilt for my nephew, and it took me nine months of sewing several hours each night. My nephew still has that quilt.

Ashleigh: When I was 15 or 16, my grandma handed me a quilt and said "Bind this." All I knew about sewing at that point was a slip-stitch which I had learned at school. With Jennifer's help I have learned more about sewing and quilting through the years - although part of that education included her giving me a Quilting for Dummies book!

Jennifer: I have always loved making things, crafts of all kinds..scrap booking, cross stitch, tole painting and more. When I was in my early twenties, I would go into the quilt shops and just look around loving all the fabrics and patterns, samples on the wall, etc. I was newly married and struggling financially so I knew I didn't dare take up the quilting hobby as much as I wanted to. But I kept dreaming of it until one day at my local library I found one of Debbie Mumm's earliest quilting books. I read through the instructions included in the back of the book and started with a very small wall hanging which I still have. That day at the library and that book was all I needed to get started. After all, the desire to take up quilting had been on heart for years. So basically I'm self taught and LOVE quilting. I've learned so much from friends at quilting retreats and of course, through trial and error. I've taught friends how to quilt and continue to share tips with anyone whenever I'm asked. Quilters are wonderful people the world around! It seems this common interest we share makes us instant friends! I would love to host a global retreat. What great fun that would be!