This past holiday week went by so fast. I really had good intentions to get “things” done but instead I relaxed and enjoyed the days off. That was good. I have been planning events for 2011 at Heartbeat. It's not an easy task but a fun one for me, my employees, and you.
I received the initial yardage for my new fabric line, “By the Sea” from Marcus Fabric and it will be featured on their website, www.marcusfabrics.com in January along with a pattern I have written for Marcus Fabrics. The pattern will be available for download in January. Now that we have sku numbers for the fabrics you may order them from Heartbeat. However, fabric won’t be available for shipping or in store for sale until March, 2011
For manufacturers and others we are also taking orders for full bolts of my fabric and would love to hear from you (email or telephone please). By advance ordering you will be able to get fabric on the initial printing.
Thank you all for a wonderful 2010 and looking forward to new and exciting happenings in 2011. Good health and happiness to you, your family, and friends.
Monday, December 27, 2010
December 27, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
December 6, 2011
Remember at the beginning of November I suggested that you try to save $5.00/day by sacrificing an unnecessary purchase in your daily routine? Both Mary and I have been putting aside the daily stipend and we both have $150. All month I have been visualizing what I would do with my money. Remember, the concept is that you must spend it on yourself!I have spent the money a dozen times over in my mind. I wanted a facial, new shoes, perfume (a new scent), a Keurig, theater tickets and lunch with Mary in Boston, etc. I bought the coffee machine, Keurig, and love it. I didn’t spend all the money so I have been continuing with the $5 savings in December. Did you save money too? Post a comment below to share your experience. I found that the best part was mentally spending the money all month!
This year we are having an inventory reduction sale to help us prepare for the yearly inventory! Take advantage of the savings until the end of 2010! Stay well, stay happy, and sew to relax…
Monday, November 15, 2010
November 15, 2010
A customer recently emailed me about pressing seams. The following was my response to Sue and to all of you with similar issue:
- First you can (optional) set the seam threads by just lightly pressing on the seam. I don't do this because if I need to rip, it is more difficult.
- Depending on the pattern, you can press the seams all in one direction or towards the darker fabric. Whichever is more convenient to your piecing.
- First press on the FRONT (right side) of the strips. This insures that the seam are flat (not "accordion")--no pleats in your seams!
- Press across the sewn strips, not along the seam line as this will distort the sewn strips, making them wavy.
- You can "correct" any seams that twisted by then ironing a bit on the wrong side.
In addition, you might consider purchasing a great iron. On Harriet Hargrave’s suggestion we have been using, selling and absolutely loving the “Reliable” iron. Treat yourself or ask for this iron for a gift! Click here!
I just returned from the airport sending off my good friend, Harriet Hargrave. She spent 4 days at Heartbeat teaching Machine Quilting and Machine Appliqué. Her students were amazed at how much they learned this weekend. A few hearty women took all 4 days, maximizing the opportunity to learn from a master. We will soon be setting the dates for 2011, once again in the fall. When you see the dates and know if you are available, then sign up immediately. Commit to the workshop(s) and you, too, will have the knowledge which will enhance your sewing experiences for years to come. Any questions, ask!
I just returned from the airport sending off my good friend, Harriet Hargrave. She spent 4 days at Heartbeat teaching Machine Quilting and Machine Appliqué. Her students were amazed at how much they learned this weekend. A few hearty women took all 4 days, maximizing the opportunity to learn from a master. We will soon be setting the dates for 2011, once again in the fall. When you see the dates and know if you are available, then sign up immediately. Commit to the workshop(s) and you, too, will have the knowledge which will enhance your sewing experiences for years to come. Any questions, ask!
Monday, November 1, 2010
November 1, 2010
This past week has been wonderful. The air is crisp, sunshine almost every day, and most of my boxes are unpacked! I spent time cooking this weekend with family. I had almost forgotten how much I love to cook. Yesterday I made roasted root vegetables, chili soup, homemade macaroni and cheese and Deke’s son-in-law, Mark, brought cherrystones fresh from the sea. All is well in Centerville! Recipes will be placed on the website next week.
As most of you are aware, today starts the redemption of Red Hearts. Here is a link to the promotion’s requirements. Basically, redeem your 2010 red hearts during Nov/Dec 2010; spend $100 (excluding tax) on full priced merchandise (no sale items), currently in stock (no special orders or previously placed orders) and receive (2) $25 gift certificates valid Jan 3, 2011 until June 30, 2011. This is a per person offer. There is no duplication of bonus offers; full bonus cards or “special” gift certificates cannot be used when paying for the $100 minimum purchase. Your bonus cards will be punched for the $100+ red heart required purchase.
Please don’t try to use the red heart for Internet purchases. Please respect the time period of Nov-Dec 2010 to redeem the heart—ONLY 2010 HEARTS ARE ACCEPTABLE. Note the dates when Heartbeat is closed in Nov and Dec. We cannot be responsible for flat tires on your way to see us, sick relatives or friends, vacations that you are taking during Nov/Dec and cannot get to Heartbeat, forgetting you even have a heart to use, etc.
Take advantage of our Holiday Wish List. Fill it out and send it back to us for our files. Place it on your refrigerator for those who might need a hint. Email it to all your friends and relatives. You get the picture. Receive a Heartbeat gift or Gift Certificates for the holidays instead of another pair of pajamas (aren’t they mounting up in your drawers?) Don’t forget to tell gift givers that we are closed the week before Christmas.
On the Today Show this morning, it was suggested that by not buying that extra cup of coffee, skipping a product at the Supermarket that you don’t really need, etc. you could start saving $5.00 a day (put it in any envelope) and
by Nov 30 you will have $150. Spend it on YOURSELF on a splurge rather than a necessity. We need to remember to do something special for us. I am putting my $5.00 in the envelope now. You do the same. Then we can share what gifts we purchase for ourselves on Dec 1!
As most of you are aware, today starts the redemption of Red Hearts. Here is a link to the promotion’s requirements. Basically, redeem your 2010 red hearts during Nov/Dec 2010; spend $100 (excluding tax) on full priced merchandise (no sale items), currently in stock (no special orders or previously placed orders) and receive (2) $25 gift certificates valid Jan 3, 2011 until June 30, 2011. This is a per person offer. There is no duplication of bonus offers; full bonus cards or “special” gift certificates cannot be used when paying for the $100 minimum purchase. Your bonus cards will be punched for the $100+ red heart required purchase.
Please don’t try to use the red heart for Internet purchases. Please respect the time period of Nov-Dec 2010 to redeem the heart—ONLY 2010 HEARTS ARE ACCEPTABLE. Note the dates when Heartbeat is closed in Nov and Dec. We cannot be responsible for flat tires on your way to see us, sick relatives or friends, vacations that you are taking during Nov/Dec and cannot get to Heartbeat, forgetting you even have a heart to use, etc.
Take advantage of our Holiday Wish List. Fill it out and send it back to us for our files. Place it on your refrigerator for those who might need a hint. Email it to all your friends and relatives. You get the picture. Receive a Heartbeat gift or Gift Certificates for the holidays instead of another pair of pajamas (aren’t they mounting up in your drawers?) Don’t forget to tell gift givers that we are closed the week before Christmas.
On the Today Show this morning, it was suggested that by not buying that extra cup of coffee, skipping a product at the Supermarket that you don’t really need, etc. you could start saving $5.00 a day (put it in any envelope) and
by Nov 30 you will have $150. Spend it on YOURSELF on a splurge rather than a necessity. We need to remember to do something special for us. I am putting my $5.00 in the envelope now. You do the same. Then we can share what gifts we purchase for ourselves on Dec 1!
Friday, October 29, 2010
October 25, 2010
The flannel baby quilt I told you about last week is almost finished.
I am adding ruffles to the outside in two layers. I will be sewing tonight to finish it. You can still order a kit, details will be posted this week on our website.
My fabric line “By the Sea” for Marcus Fabrics is being introduced at Quilt Market later this week. It should be in stores by March 2011, so if you like what you see, please tell your local quilt shop to order it. There are 13 skus and I will be supporting them with projects in magazines and catalogs, and in single patterns of quilts, totes, table runners and more!
Here’s a peek at some swatches of BY THE SEA
We start taking fabric orders in December and will let you know via Monday Email Blast how to order yardage and kits and when to expect delivery.
Remember that Nov 1st starts the redemption of our Red Hearts for the 2010 Promotion. If you don’t have your heart yet you still can earn one to use in 2010. Details can be found by clicking.
I look forward to seeing you at Heartbeat soon.
I am adding ruffles to the outside in two layers. I will be sewing tonight to finish it. You can still order a kit, details will be posted this week on our website.
My fabric line “By the Sea” for Marcus Fabrics is being introduced at Quilt Market later this week. It should be in stores by March 2011, so if you like what you see, please tell your local quilt shop to order it. There are 13 skus and I will be supporting them with projects in magazines and catalogs, and in single patterns of quilts, totes, table runners and more!
Here’s a peek at some swatches of BY THE SEA
We start taking fabric orders in December and will let you know via Monday Email Blast how to order yardage and kits and when to expect delivery.
Remember that Nov 1st starts the redemption of our Red Hearts for the 2010 Promotion. If you don’t have your heart yet you still can earn one to use in 2010. Details can be found by clicking.
I look forward to seeing you at Heartbeat soon.
Monday, October 11, 2010
October 11, 2010
I hope you all enjoyed my Matzo Ball Soup recipe from last week. If you don’t have it, look under “Recipes” on our web site. For all of you who asked, I am feeling much better although the “cold” continues on!
Quilt Camp this past weekend at The Red Jacket Beach Resort was fantastic. The storm that was predicted never came near Cape Cod. The sun shone all weekend off the ocean and river, creating sparkling water and spectacular sunsets. It is truly a treat to sew in that atmosphere. Even Mary and I got to sew. Food, as always, was fresh and prepared by the chef to please everyone. We probably all ate a bit too much, but, after all, we were on vacation.
I made an adorable baby quilt in pink and green flannel for my dentist’s first grandchild. It is being machine quilted by my friend, Celine Spader, who took it home from Camp to perform her long arm magic on this quilt. When she brings it back to the store, I am told on Thursday; I will photograph it and include the picture next Monday. You will all want to order a quilt kit.
It has come to my attention that many of you don’t really know what Harriet Hargrave teaches when she comes to Heartbeat. First of all, Harriet, who is from Colorado, does not teach often in the East. She comes to me because she is my friend and we support each other as much as possible. Harriet is the ultimate “teacher”. She has the most thorough knowledge of thread, fabric, batting, quilting, appliqué, and piecing techniques of anyone I know in our industry. That is a heavy statement but true. She does not teach long arm quilting. She uses her sewing machine just like you and I, but with more finesse. Her blind stitch appliqué looks like it was hand sewn. Did I say enough? Harriet has only a few openings in her November classes here. Don’t wait a moment longer, sign up NOW. Click here.
Lots to do, not enough time, so make the most of your spare time and sew, sew, sew. It will lower your blood pressure. Come visit us soon.
Quilt Camp this past weekend at The Red Jacket Beach Resort was fantastic. The storm that was predicted never came near Cape Cod. The sun shone all weekend off the ocean and river, creating sparkling water and spectacular sunsets. It is truly a treat to sew in that atmosphere. Even Mary and I got to sew. Food, as always, was fresh and prepared by the chef to please everyone. We probably all ate a bit too much, but, after all, we were on vacation.
I made an adorable baby quilt in pink and green flannel for my dentist’s first grandchild. It is being machine quilted by my friend, Celine Spader, who took it home from Camp to perform her long arm magic on this quilt. When she brings it back to the store, I am told on Thursday; I will photograph it and include the picture next Monday. You will all want to order a quilt kit.
It has come to my attention that many of you don’t really know what Harriet Hargrave teaches when she comes to Heartbeat. First of all, Harriet, who is from Colorado, does not teach often in the East. She comes to me because she is my friend and we support each other as much as possible. Harriet is the ultimate “teacher”. She has the most thorough knowledge of thread, fabric, batting, quilting, appliqué, and piecing techniques of anyone I know in our industry. That is a heavy statement but true. She does not teach long arm quilting. She uses her sewing machine just like you and I, but with more finesse. Her blind stitch appliqué looks like it was hand sewn. Did I say enough? Harriet has only a few openings in her November classes here. Don’t wait a moment longer, sign up NOW. Click here.
Lots to do, not enough time, so make the most of your spare time and sew, sew, sew. It will lower your blood pressure. Come visit us soon.
Monday, October 4, 2010
October 4, 2010
I woke up this morning and realized that it is Monday again. How is it possible that another week has flown by? Then I reviewed in my mind, talking to myself, all the things I accomplished last week. Among the accomplishments were: finally meeting with my insurance agent to go over different policies and lower premiums (all of you should do that), a 2 hour interview with a charming reporter, Jessica, from “Cape Cod Magazine” who is doing an article (January?) about me and Heartbeat, beginning a new Quilters’ Academy, Freshman Year class, meeting with fabric salesmen, and revamping and finalizing the CD for the Quilt Patterns with General Instructions for Sewing Quilts, for 6-12 year olds to accompany my book, Quilts: Color by Number.
As if that was not enough, on Saturday I prepared a luncheon for the Garden City Quilters Guild who were here on Cape Cod sewing for the weekend at a local hotel. After lunch, I sat with these lovely women and discussed scrap quilts, showing off my samples. It was a great day! New recipes will be posted this week on our web site.
Most of you may not know that Heartbeat and I offer special events to quilting groups visiting Cape Cod. Bus tours, quilters (guilds or otherwise) who attend weekend quilt retreats and birthday celebrations are our specialty. We can provide luncheons in our store with free lectures from myself, off-scheduled hours of private shopping, lectures or classes for visiting groups, parties galore with your friends, and pretty much anything else we can think up! Fees vary with numbers of participants but we are into customer appreciation and fun, so don’t hesitate to ask. Of course, you must plan in advance for any special event. Call or email me or, if I am not available, ask for Liz, to discuss your requests.
The second Saturday $5 quilt is this coming weekend. If you couldn’t make it last month, then join us Saturday, October 9. Be sure to get here early; we open our doors at 9:00am and lock them at 9:10am. There are no excuses for being late. Arrive on time and join the fun. You need not be a quilter; maybe you are a wannabe quilter. If you don’t come on Saturday, then consider the 2nd Saturday in November. There is no fee and no advance sign up. Just come!
See you soon here on Cape Cod where the sun always shines (well, often anyway).
As if that was not enough, on Saturday I prepared a luncheon for the Garden City Quilters Guild who were here on Cape Cod sewing for the weekend at a local hotel. After lunch, I sat with these lovely women and discussed scrap quilts, showing off my samples. It was a great day! New recipes will be posted this week on our web site.
Most of you may not know that Heartbeat and I offer special events to quilting groups visiting Cape Cod. Bus tours, quilters (guilds or otherwise) who attend weekend quilt retreats and birthday celebrations are our specialty. We can provide luncheons in our store with free lectures from myself, off-scheduled hours of private shopping, lectures or classes for visiting groups, parties galore with your friends, and pretty much anything else we can think up! Fees vary with numbers of participants but we are into customer appreciation and fun, so don’t hesitate to ask. Of course, you must plan in advance for any special event. Call or email me or, if I am not available, ask for Liz, to discuss your requests.
The second Saturday $5 quilt is this coming weekend. If you couldn’t make it last month, then join us Saturday, October 9. Be sure to get here early; we open our doors at 9:00am and lock them at 9:10am. There are no excuses for being late. Arrive on time and join the fun. You need not be a quilter; maybe you are a wannabe quilter. If you don’t come on Saturday, then consider the 2nd Saturday in November. There is no fee and no advance sign up. Just come!
See you soon here on Cape Cod where the sun always shines (well, often anyway).
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)