Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Block 16 and the Phoenix Farmer's Mkt

This block has been done since last week but I haven't blogged about it yet. I know, bad blogger, but life and my wonky digestive system (mostly the latter) have kept me rather distracted. But, it is done and so I shall present it for your perusal...
Block 16
There aren't too many extra special seams on this block, but I did try out a new stitch... double chain stitch. It did the job but I need to practice a bit more with it. It's on the right hand seam of the dark triangle on the left... embiggen the block and you can sorta see it.

The one seam I do rather like on this block is this one...
Block 16 - Herringbone
My favorite stitch, herringbone, with some additional straight stitches to add some more interest. These stitches are pretty long and were buckling rather badly, so I tied them with a straight stitch. I thought I was using the same color of perle cotton but when I was done I realized it was darker; however, I think it gives much more interest to the stitch.

Yesterday, Sharonb highlighted Dover Publications Weekly Sampler. I've been receiving the Sampler for quite some time; in fact, I think Sharon was the one who originally brought it to my attention a while back. Anyway, a couple of weeks ago I finally caved and did some shopping when I received a Dover email with a $15 coupon (every little bit helps!). I picked up a couple of books to help with Midsummer, a Butterfly book and a Fairies & Elves book, both with iron-on transfers. I need some help in the drawing department!

I also picked up a Decorative Letters book & CD, a Victorian Monograms book & CD, and a Ornaments and Designs book & CD... all for future projects. Of course, I did a little Christmas shopping for stocking stuffers for some cute grandkids I know!

I've also been taking a class from the Phoenix Permaculture Guild on gardening in this desert I live in. I resisted it as long as I could but the lure of gardening drew me back into it's grubby arms! The class is held at the community building next to the Downtown Phoenix Farmer's Market so I've been coming home with lovely local tomatoes, basil, goat cheese, olive oil and wonderful, wonderful bread to enliven our weekend meals.

Here's a couple of my pictures from week before last, they start lining up very early to get in and get the best veggies!
Phx farmer's mkt

And this guy has chicken, duck and peacock eggs... I just got the chicken. ;0)
Phx farmer's mkt eggs.

OK... I think I'm all linked out, now!! Talk to you soon!

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Marty, that is such a lovely piece you are creating. Delicate and elegant....Deligant. I bet it's a good idea to get that produce early before the heat kills it!

Threadspider said...

You are being busy! And I loved the visit to the farmer's market. Can't beat good fresh produce.

sharonb said...

Marty I love the seam treatment - the herringbone and straight stitches it works soooooo well

allie aller said...

So great to see your progress on this quilt!
Sounds like you picked up some winners from Dover, too.

Wendy said...

Oooo I love this. I am in a Round Robin with my sisters and my youngest sister created a block that was only black and silver. I am almost done decorating my part on it and I will post it. I really love the effect and I might even start one myself for a purse that is silver and black. Really cool, refreshing colors!
Wendy

Candi said...

Your block is just beautiful Marty!
The seam with the herringbone is exceptional. It's all just gorgeous.
Hugz:)
Candi

Anonymous said...

Marty, the block is beautiful. And I love the special herringbone seam treatment. It's a standout! I had to pull out needle and thread to try and remember it.

Best wishes,
Elizabeth

Rissa said...

I just love those Dover books!! :)

The block is lovely...and I like the seam treatment too.