Mini Shop Hop

My husband and I went away for the weekend a couple of weeks ago. Luckily for me, we have been together long enough for him to know that will include me checking out the quilting stores in the area. I have been quilting ever since we have been together. We lived apart for a while, and when I went to visit him he would take me to the quilting stores in his area. I found 3 that were nearby and we visited all 3.

I think I am going to use these fq's to make placemats. The fat eights are for a quilt I have been collecting fabric for, for a long time.

At the next store, I found this incredible sun and watermelon fabric. I was unhappy with my pinwheel quilt and this fabric will make a great border for it. I also bought some Christmas fabric, because I may have forgot to mention (okay I did it on purpose) that I joined the Christmas block swap twice. To make a long story shorter, I had switched groups so that I could make Christmas presents. Then when I checked out the swap a week later, I noticed there was only one spot remaining and it was in my former group, and Christmas trees were available, and that was what I had originally planned on doing. So, I signed up again, plus between the 2 groups I will be getting 18 different designs!

At the last store, I found a cute aqua fabric. I have not started to put together my red/aqua swap but I thought it would come in handy if I need a few extra blocks. I also bought some straw needles. I had heard good things about them for binding and I must admit they worked well. The end did seem sharper then other needles and I did get a sore on my finger. I may have to try a thimble next time. I also got this fabric which I just love and have no idea how I am going to use it.